“There is a lot of great music being created by independent Christian artists today. As the business model continues to evolve in the music industry, independent artists are finding more opportunities than ever. The State of Independents is a reflection of what's happening in the industry," notes industry veteran Robert Tyson. Jesusfreakhideout.com President John DiBiase recently appointed Tyson, formerly with EMI Christian Music Group and currently the owner of GRAVITY Music.Books.Art. in Reading, Penn., to direct the content and reviews for The State of Independents.

The State of Independents will offer an indie review service that guarantees a listen to a recording, a non-rated paragraph review, a link to the act’s website or community page (i.e. Myspace, Purevolume, Facebook), an archived review for continuous exposure and reference, and exposure through the JesusFreakHideout.com readership. Each submission for review will also be considered for an “Indie Spotlight” review in which the site will highlight the best of the best independent artists with a full-page review and extended information on each release. For more details on CD review submission, visit https://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/indiemusic/submissions.asp.

“We are not only looking to recognize the best current indies, but shining a light on regional artists who may have a larger stage awaiting them in the future. MercyMe was a touring indie for years before signing to INO Records. Third Day used to be an indie band playing The Strand near Atlanta and Sanctus Real had three independent releases before Say It Loud ever hit the shelves,” says Tyson.

JesusFreakHideout.com also recently hosted “The Hideout At The Rutledge” in downtown Nashville alongside GMA Week 2008. Featuring top acts Jackson Waters and Sarah Kelly among others, the show drew an extensive crowd of fans, musicians and industry executives. Photos, video and a review of the event can be found at https://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/concerts/HideoutAtTheRutledge.asp. Video from the show is also available free through the JesusFreakHideout.com iTunes podcast.

For more information about JesusFreakHideout.com, please visit www.jesusfreakhideout.com

Founded in 1996 by John DiBiase, JesusFreakHideout.com was established to be a relevant voice in Christian music and to bridge the gaps between the Christian and mainstream music worlds. Besides being a music information site, JesusFreakHideout.com serves as a ministry to its readers with weekly devotionals by author J.M. Farro, scripture verses and prayer requests.