Jesusfreakhideout.com Music News: August 2002

August, 2002

*Thursday, August 29th, 2002*

Michael W. Smith and Third Day announced the addition of inspired author Max Lucado as special guest on the Come Together and Worship tour slated for the month of November. The Come Together and Worship team also announces a partnership with Chevrolet as the tour’s title sponsor along with artist-affiliated ministry partners Compassion International and World Vision. Third Day’s Mac Powell notes, “Max is an amazing addition to this tour. He’ll bring another dimension to the evening of worship with his inspiring words. I’m glad he’ll be out with us.” “Max and I have been great friends for many years and have talked about doing something together for quite a while now. His being a part of these evenings of worship will add a wonderful element of inspiration that will complete the evening. I have a deep respect for Max and am glad to welcome him to the tour,” adds Michael W. Smith. “I am honored and excited to be a part of this unique event. Michael W. Smith, Third Day are among the finest of God’s minstrels. The tour has the right people. Moreover, the tour has the right purpose, worship. God being our helper, Christ will be the sole voice of the night,” says author, pastor and speaker, Max Lucado.

Hip Hoppers Grits are making waves already with their new release The Art of Translation. MTV offers a news story covering the rap wonder duo on their site. Check out the article now at: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1457216/20020827/grits_rap_.jhtml?headlines=true

*Wednesday, August 28th, 2002*

Steven Curtis Chapman has reached the top at radio again with “Magnificent Obsession,” his 39th #1 single of his career and fourth radio single from his gold-selling album Declaration, and this time, for eight weeks in a row, setting the new record on R&R’s AC Christian Chart. The first single released from Declaration, “Live Out Loud,” was #1 at AC consecutively for six weeks. Written by Chapman, the idea behind “Magnificent Obsession” came to him during a sermon he heard by his pastor. He comments, “He (the pastor) was using Paul’s words that ‘I will boast in the cross of Christ.’ The cross represents God’s expression of love and it represented life for Paul- the cross and Jesus, giving his life for Him, led to Paul becoming obsessed with the cross. It became Paul’s magnificent obsession.” Chapman explains further, “This song talks about wanting God to recapture my heart again, to say to Him I want You to be the one thing that consumes me and my passion and my desire. I want You to be my magnificent obsession.” The next single, “Jesus Is Life,” released to AC and CHR formats this month.

Brand new Relient K music will be available this fall on The Employee Of The Month EP. This new CD will only be available on the Back To The Few Tour this Fall. It will include 2 songs from the new album coming out in March 2003, 3 songs only available on this EP, and 1 song from the last album, The Anatomy of the Tongue In Cheek. It will only be available at the RK merch table on the tour. Track listing and cover on the way.

It's official now! Just on the heels of the new Satellite Ltd Edition CD hitting stores this week, the RIAA announces this week that P.O.D.'s 2001 release Satellite has been certified triple Platinum! Be sure to pick up a copy of the Limited Edition re-release which features 3 new remixes and a bonus 4-song live DVD!

Music sightings continue! According to a JfH visitor, the Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen movie Getting There, features the Jars of Clay song "Something Beautiful" from their Eleventh Hour CD. Also another visitor recently pointed out that in the new Disney Channel Movie A Ring of Endless Light, they featured the Switchfoot song "You Already Take Me There." Apparently a character is driving in his convertible and the rocking tune can be heard playing on his radio!

*Tuesday, August 27th, 2002*

Rebecca St. James is back in Australia again, taping some footage for a DVD which will be out in November. The DVD will also contain other interview material plus clips of "Wait For Me" and "Song of Love." Rebecca will also be doing some Rocfishing while she is there, catching up with the folks involved with the group Rocfish as well as catching up with her cousin's band Alabaster Box. (Some of the footage was done on Fraser Island) Also, her song from WorshipGod, "Song of Love," will appear on the new WOW 2003 compilation releasing in October.

In support of their new release, Sixpence None the Richer will be releasing their first single, "Breathe Your Name", in stores October 1st. The single will include an unreleased non-album track, "Northern Lights." The full record, their first release in five years, the long-delayed Divine Discontent finally brightens store shelves (and fans' hearts) on October 29, 2002.

Big Idea Productions, creators of the best-selling direct-to-video VeggieTales and ValuSoft(r), a division of THQ Inc., the leading global publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and productivity software, have teamed up to bring the trademark silliness and original stories of VeggieTales to children of all ages with the release today of The Mystery of Veggie Island (tm) interactive PC game. Assisted by Bob the Tomato, Larry the Cucumber, and the rest of the VeggieTales characters, players will join the veggie kids on a Cub Sprout camping trip on Veggie Island. Kids will explore the island, completing 11 fun, challenging activities, help Junior Asparagus earn his Achievement Certificate and even sing along with 10 brand new "Silly Campfire Songs with Larry." But that's just the beginning! When the Veggies find themselves stranded without a boat, the mystery of Veggie Island unfolds. In a crazy turn of events, kids will be faced with a dilemma that teaches them a valuable lesson in helping others. The Mystery of Veggie Island, the first VeggieTales interactive game, will be available at computer software retailers and mass merchants for $19.99 SRP. The second game, Jonah: A VeggieTales Game(tm), based on Big Idea's all-new theatrical feature film Jonah - A VeggieTales Movie(tm), will be available for $19.99 and release on October 1, 2002, surrounding the film's premier. The third VeggieTales CD-ROM game, VeggieTales Carnival(tm), will ship October 5, 2002 for a suggested retail price of $9.99.

The Elms recently completed a string of tour dates with legendary guitarist Peter Frampton. Performing for as many as 3,500 fans a night, The Elms showcased music from their new album Truth, Soul, Rock & Roll to be released on October 22nd. In addition to their tour with Frampton, The Elms will be hitting the road this fall with Jars of Clay for the “eleventhhourtour”. “Going out with Jars will be a great way to spend the fall,” shared Owen Thomas, lead singer of The Elms. “We love how they’ve made their music the priority, and have written so many songs that cause people to consider truth as a way of life. It’s going to be a great time.”

Essential Records' pop quartet True Vibe launches its sophomore release See The Light with nine consecutive days of promotional events in major Christian music markets including Chicago, Dallas and Seattle. Among the week's activities are an appearance on Chicago-based television network WGN's morning show, post-game performances at multiple minor league baseball games, and retail/radio supported concerts. Also in support of See The Light, True Vibe has been on the Summer JAM tour hosted by Reunion Records artist NewSong and featuring guest performers Brother's Keeper, Freddie Colloca, Rachael Lampa and Tait. In addition to the Summer JAM tour and festival appearances, True Vibe will team up with fellow pop artists Plus One, SoulJahz and Phat Chance on a 25-city Pure Pop tour this fall.

Here's an update on the latest from Crissie of Element 101... "We are forced to cancel the rest of our shows on this tour and drive the insane drive back home today (Aug. 23). We haven't been to California in a while so I cannot even begin to tell you how sad and upset we are about this. It is hard to see your friend like that and hard to be so let down. I hope that all of you who were planning on coming to see us understand and will remember just how hard this really is and keep us and Nick in all of your thoughts and prayers. We are going to be doing everything in our power to come back this way as soon as we possibly can. So please wait for us and I promise we will do our best to come back. E-mail Nick if you can and tell him you are thinking of him, it would encourage him a lot. nickelement@hotmail.com We are having a really hard time with this and are beyond sad and frustrated, but we know that in the long run everything will be right and we will see you all soon. Yesterday we were just happy to see Nick feeling a little better and being able to talk with us for a while. now he just needs some time to rest and recover... but we will miss him this week. So thank you all for taking the time to read this. I hope to see all of you soon! We love you... Crissie & Element 101" And don't forget Element's new record More Than Motion is in stores on September 10th! You can check out 3 MP3's from the new record by going here: http://artists.mp3s.com/artists/237/tooth_and_nail.html Please keep them in your prayers!

After a busy summer of touring, Florida rock sensations Further Seems Forever are back in the studio putting the finishing touches on their new album How To Start A Fire. The new CD comes out in February of 2003. Until then you can look forward to another 2 month long national tour as FSF opens for New Found Glory in October and November.

Combining his passion for God and a strong creative vision, Sparrow Records’ new artist DJ Andy Hunter will release his highly anticipated debut album Exodus on October 22nd. With a unique and relevant style for this generation, Andy’s approach to worship is an experience like no other. Exodus will also be distributed into the general market by L.A. based label Nettwerk America who have already slated “Amazing” as the first dance club single release.

*Friday, August 23rd, 2002*

Continuing to drive the popularity of Christian music to new heights, the ever-popular Newsboys will be a featured artist in a Christian music overview that CBS Sunday Morning is scheduled to air on August 25th (date subject to change). CBS traveled with Newsboys to Creation East music festival this summer to capture their live show as well as see first hand the wide demographic and influence of Christian music. Similar to last year's Newsweek cover story (July 16, 2001) on Christian music, CBS Sunday Morning will also focus on the growing genre as well as how relevant the music is to today's society. Newsboys are also slated to release their first ever remix album, Newsboys Remixed, on September 24th. This is the only CD where Newsboys' catalog of hits are completely remixed and all on one album. Featuring remixes of songs such as "Shine," "Breakfast," "Entertaining Angels," and the radio smash "It Is You," Newsboys Remixed will add a new twist to their already popular songs.

UK-based Furious? Records, home to critically acclaimed artists Delirious?, All Star United and Graham Kendrick, announces the arrival of its new US office in Nashville. To launch its new label in 2002, Furious? USA is scheduled to release projects from each of its artists, all on November 19. Label founders and multi-million album sellers Delirious? will release its fifth studio project in the US, Touch. Grammy-nominated and radio-chart-topping band All Star United will release its first project in almost four years, Revolution. And one of the most prolific praise and worship singer/songwriters from Europe, Graham Kendrick, will release What Grace.

Third Day has released a new album!... kinda... okay, not really, but new music IS available for the diehard 3D fans! We just got our hands on a new 5-song EP from the group entitled Carry Me Home. This excellent disc features three previously unreleased studio tracks and two live favorites including "King of Glory," and "Sky Falls Down." The CD is only available through Family Christian Stores when you order the Offerings Live video or DVD or the band's latest project, 2001's Come Together. Check it out! And if you're a fan, you'd be crazy to miss this project!

Audio Adrenaline’s fourth new single, “Ocean Floor,” from their current album, Lift has just hit the #1 spot on the Adult Contemporary Christian Chart according to R&R Magazine. This marks the first time Audio Adrenaline has ever taken over the top spot at AC radio. The last time Audio Adrenaline made an impact at AC radio was with their 2000 single “Hands and Feet,” which peaked at #6 on the AC chart. “‘Ocean Floor’ is clearly a career song for Audio Adrenaline that has demonstrated yet again how solid this band is,” says ForeFront Manager of AC Promotions Kat Davis. “ForeFront has launched and continues to catapult this hit with all our guns blazing. We have confidence that this song has the ability to reach out and change people’s lives and we have committed to support this song throughout its duration.”

David Ellefson from Megadeth called former lead singer of Guardian, Jamie Rowe recently to see if I would be interested in auditioning for a new band with the other Megadeth guys (Dave Mustaine had left). Jamie and David never did get that together but have become good friends. Jamie worked a bit with Billy Smiley and Ellefson plays bass in Billy's church. Billy passed him some of Rowe's work, and called him! Rowe describes his songwriting of late as more in common with Third Eye Blind, so he's not really in a metal mood, but found it nice to be recognized by "the world." When former bandmate David Bach switched jobs from A&R at ForeFront to Reunion Records, Jamie followed him over and they have discussed recording for them. We'll keep you posted as Jamie reports!

Tooth and Nail recording artist MxPx are celebrating the addition of their new video "My Mistake" to MTV's M2 starting Aug 30th! MxPx's latest album, their hits project, Ten Years and Running, was released on May 21st. Since the MxPx's first release on Tooth and Nail, Pokinatcha, in 1994 the band has sold over 2 million records!

The new P.O.D. video "Satellite" will premiere online exclusively on AOL, AIM, Netscape and Compuserve worldwide on August 26th/27th. AOL subscribers can access the video at AOL Keyword: First View. Non- subscribers can view on the web at: www.netscape.com/music Also, MTV have asked P.O.D. to stop by TRL on Aug. 28th during their stay in NYC for the VMA’s.

David Crowder Band, honored with the biggest selling street week debut ever for Sparrow/sixstepsrecords, was a featured artist at the first annual Purpose-Driven Worship Conference and Festival in Lake Forest, CA. "David Crowder is one my favorite worship leaders,” says Pastor Rick Warren, author of The Purpose Driven Life. “He is passionate, authentic, and anointed. I love watching God use him for His glory and for the growth of the Body of Christ."

New Christian artist David Glenn has teamed up with Danny Stephens, of Smalltown Poets fame, to pen the theme song for this year's See You At The Pole-National Day of Student Prayer event to be held September 18th nationwide. The theme song, "Come Down," appears on the See You At The Pole 2002 CD compilation that also features Matt Redman, Rebecca St. James, and the David Crowder Band.

Jeff Deyo's new single, "More Love More Power," is the #1 most added song at CHR this week. Meanwhile, Jeff's been at the production helm of other worship projects, writing songs at the request of authors and other producers and of course, leading worship from Coast to Coast.

Jump5 released their sophomore album All The Time In The World on August 13th and captured the #1 position on the Top Christian Album Charts, #4 position on the Top 50 Albums Chart and #86 on the Billboard Charts for their first week sales of over 13,000 units! In addition to their first week sales success, Jump5’s self-titled DVD/VHS recently reached RIAA Gold certification. The group reached gold status only 20 weeks after releasing in March. Pictured with Robin Jones, Radio Disney’s Sr. Director of Operations, Jump5 presented Jones with a plaque celebrating the RIAA certification of the Gold sales status of their debut DVD/Video.

*Monday, August 19th, 2002*

Hendrickson Publishers have just released this month a new must-have Christian music resource. The Encyclopedia of Contemporary Christian Music by Mark Allan Powell is over 1,000 pages of material covering hundreds of Christian artists over the past couple decades. Each artist has a discography list as well as information on all of the personnel of bands listed throughout its years together. Finally, each artist has a write-up about the band's accomplishments, sound, and cites comments from media sources. Powell takes an interesting look at each artist but may keep some readers wishing more information was included. At times, Powell's opinions on an artist may get in the way of facts, but it doesn't hinder the overall validity of the book. This is an amazing collection that has been long overdue. Check out this book at your local Christian bookstores now!

dc Talk fan site ArdentEnthusiast.com asked Kevin Max recently if a new KMax album is coming next or the latest chapter from dc Talk? Kevin, who celebrated a birthday on Saturday, responded, "It's an interesting question. If I were to put my money on it, I'd say a Kevin Max record before dc talk. I think each of us wants to establish the fact that we're serious about solo careers. And the band is definitely going to come back and make another record because we're contractually bound to do that. But I think in order for us to establish ourselves as serious artists outside of dc talk we almost have to do another record to let people know we're serious about it. And I'm already writing for another record, I'm not writing for dc talk right now, so it seems my path has already been laid for me in a way. It's like Gandalf says in Lord of the Rings, 'The one who wanders is not lost.' It's alright to wander sometimes, you know."

After the Seattle show of The Juliana Theory tour in which Element 101 is an opener, Element's drummer Nick came down with viral meningitis. They made it to Portland but were unable to play. He is currrently under doctor's care at a hospital there. The rest of the band is attempting to put together some sort of acoustic / alternate non-drum performance and figure out a way to do at least some of the southern California dates. As soon as we hear anything on which shows they will be making we will let you know. If Nick is feeling better, they will try to do as many shows as they can. Pray for him and the band in this difficult time on the road.

The Supertones' upcoming album, Hi-Fi Revival is reportedly in final master form. Work now turns toward finalizing the album's artwork. Hi-Fi Revival releases October 22, 2002. The band will be filming a music video for the first single from the new album, entitled "Superfly." Look for a Spring tour in support of Hi-Fi Revival starting in February.

Riding on the momentum of a successful worship project and multiple 2002 Dove Award nominations, Caedmon's Call sets out on select dates this fall in support of its September 2001 release, In The Company Of Angels: A Call to Worship. Nearly a year since the album's launch, continued enthusiasm for the record has prompted the band to extend its tour, which will visit venues in eleven states, including an appearance at the Billy Graham Crusade in Dallas, Texas October 17th. In response to the album's phenomenal feedback and request for additional tour dates, Caedmon's Call plans to give focus to another round of concerts, before moving its attention to a new studio project, slated for a spring 2003 release.

Nashville's hip hop major, Blazin' 106 FM, announced over the air that Grits' lead single, "Here We Go," was August 14th's #1 most requested song. Indeed, BOTH of Nashville's major hip hop stations are feeling Grits new album. The other FM staple, 101.1 The Beat, just confirmed they're adding "Tennessee Bwoys" -- also featured on The Art of Translation -- into a "power rotation" this coming Monday. It gets better -- Gotee Records received word from the Tennessee Titans that there's a buzz in their locker room about "Tennessee Bwoys," and the team's front office has confirmed the song will be rockin' The Coliseum later this season!

This week, the staff at ForeFront are pitching in to help The Benjamin Gate prepare for the upcoming video for their single, “Lift Me Up” from Contact. Staff folded 2000 paper airplanes for the shoot. So keep your eyes open for the release of this video to find out what the band ends up doing with all those paper airplanes! This month marks the fourth anniversary of The Benjamin Gate’s first official show. The band’s inaugural performance took place at their home church in South Africa. Finally, the guys from The Benjamin Gate have found a new hobby while traveling from show to show. Seems the gentlemen from the band have taken up fishing! According to Adrienne, the guys will pull over when they spot a body of water and drag out the fishing poles. So far, Mac has reeled in the biggest catch!

Smalltown Poets have finally surfaced since leaving home label ForeFront Records. The band is touring some with plans to release a new album by the end of March 2003. Their website, Smalltownpoets.org has been closed permanently. A new site is under construction at Smalltownpoets.com which currently features a note from the band and a link to a list of tour dates.

Look for the release of the book Jesus Freak II from dc Talk in September. The book will feature more stories of those who gave their lives for the cause of Christ.

tobyMac’s Christmas song “This Christmas” will be tobyMac’s Christmas single and featured on the upcoming WOW Christmas 2002 compilation. The song features Nirva Dorsaint and Tru-Dog, and was written and produced with Webster County. This is the same team that brought you “Irene” and “J Train.” Also featured on WOW Christmas 2002, Audio Adrenaline is recording their first Christmas song! Expect the quartet's rendition of "The Little Drummer Boy" to make its appearance on the project.

The rumors floating around about P.O.D. and Santana recording together for his new album are true! P.O.D. wrote a new song tentatively called, "America" for Santana's new record. Word on the streets is that Santana loves the song and laid down his guitar tracks last week in NYC.

Known for their hooky rock-pop style and their show-stopping performances, Newsboys continue to raise the bar with their first remix album, Thrive Remixed which hits stores September 24!

Speaking of remix projects... As Christian Music's New Artist of The Year for 2002, ZOEgirl reinvents themselves to capture the pop/urban sound of today’s music on their first remix project. Mix Of Life offers the listener a new experience into the music of ZOEgirl and Christian Music, releasing on September 24th.

With two critically acclaimed projects already to her credit, prolific singer/songwriter and 2001 GMA Female Vocalist of the Year Nichole Nordeman is set to release Woven & Spun, her third project for Sparrow Label Group, September 24th. With combined sales for Wide-Eyed (1998) and This Mystery (2000) exceeding nearly 300,000 units, Nordeman is poised for breakthrough success with Woven & Spun.

GS Megaphone has finished pre-production for its sophomore album, and will be heading into the studio to record it beginning August 25. No release date yas yet been determined. The group says it has selected at least 18 new songs which the album's songs will come from.

One of our readers reported recently that lead singer Reese Roper of Five Iron Frenzy told them that band member Dennis Culp (who plays trombone) was recently married. Congrats Dennis!

Kathy Troccoli performed before a crowd of 18,000 women at a Women of Faith conference in Dallas, TX. last week. Kathy's 13th project, The Heart of Me, releases on September 24, 2002. Kathy will perform before 150,000 women over the next 14 weeks, including Houston, TX, Anaheim, CA, and Grand Rapids, MI, among others.

*Wednesday, August 14th, 2002*

Worship, the September 11, 2001 release from Reunion Records’own Michael W. Smith, has been certified platinum by the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America). “I look back on the events of this year and am reminded how blessed we are. We live in a great country, a free country, and I believe that the songs on this record were used to comfort people this past year. I’m thankful to have had a part in that,” notes Smith. Dean Diehl, senior VP and general manager for Reunion Records, adds, “We have always believed Worship could be the biggest album of Michael’s career. There’s something special about this recording that transcends the record making, marketing and promotion process. This album has a life of its own, and I expect we are only seeing the beginning of all that is going to happen with this project.” On the heels of Worship’s platinum certification, Smith is readying for the release of the Worship DVD-Video/VHS (August 20) and his next live worship recording entitled Worship Again, slated for retail impact October 22.

According to Variety, Mel Gibson has scouted Italian locations for Passion, a film that would explore the life of Christ, and he has apparently talked to actor Jim Caviezel (The Count of Monte Cristo, Frequency), known among Hollywood for his faith, about the leading role. While Gibson would produce the project, he's undecided as to whether he'd direct it, adds the trade. The film does not have a home at a studio yet, nothing even at 20th Century Fox, the home base of Gibson's Icon Productions. Nonetheless, Gibson is taking steps to ensure the authenticity of his project. According to Italy's national Catholic newspaper, Avvenire, the actor has consulted with high-level theologians and church officials about the project. (compiled from sources by ComingSoon.net)

This past weekend Rebecca St. James was in the studio to add her voice to a very special project set to benefit the children who lost family members in the 9/11 tragedy. The song Rebecca tracked, "Psalm 23" will be rush released by the American Bible Society as a benefit to the children. Produced by David Pack, the song will be a joint vocal venture of several major mainstream and country artists to be announced. Ceremonies are being planned in New York around 9/11 this year to debut the song nationally. We'll keep you updated as more comes in! In other RSJ news, her new Wait For Me book is now in all stores!

ForeFront Records announced last week that Mark Stuart and Tyler Burkum of Audio Adrenaline are heading into the studio this week with producer Charlie Peacock to begin work on their early 2003 release of their 9th album with ForeFront. Also, birthday wishes go out to drummer Ben Cissell! He’ll be celebrating his birthday this today!

Skillet announced in a recent newsletter plans to record a live, acoustic, five-song DVD this month. The DVD's scheduled release is for the Christmas season. We'll give you more details as soon as they spread the word about them.

The Benjamin Gate recently signed an endorsement deal with Audix microphones. This endorsement means they will be given top-quality microphones from Audix to use during live performances and they will appear in future ads for the company. Adrienne loves her new personalized mic from Audix, she says she even sleeps with it! Check it out...

Sixpence None The Richer have just finished production on their new long-anticpitated and delayed album Divine Discontent. Produced by Paul Fox (XTC, 10,000 Maniacs, Sugarcubes), the album continues the band's trademark breezy melodic sound but adds some new stylistic twists and turns, including the trumpet-enhanced song "Don't Pass Me By." The complete track listing for the album is: "Breathe Your Name," "Tonight," "Down and Out of Time," "Waiting On The Sun," "Still Burning," "Melody Of You," "Paralyzed," "I’ve Been Waiting," "Eyes Wide Open," "Dizzy," "Tension Is A Passing Note," and "A Million Parachutes." The album will be released on Reprise Records on October 29th.

The highly talked about Relient K cover of the classic VeggieTales song "The Pirates Who Don't Do Anything" is in stores now. Also included on the single is Larry The Cucumber covering the RK song "Breakdown," polka style!! The single is also enhanced with 3 different Jonah movie trailers. All of that for only $1.99!

Building on the success of Steven Curtis Chapman’s Live Out Loud Tour that hit 33 cities and over 130,000 people in just 8 weeks last spring, he heads out again this Fall. The next leg of the Live Out Loud Tour, this time, larger in scope, will kick off in the jungles of Ecuador in early August and will continue to visit 24 cities in such key markets as Toronto, St. Louis, Kansas City and Philadelphia.

If you’re a fan of Regis and Kelly, you may have heard a familiar tune recently. Tait’s song “Alibi” was played for the audience as the show went to a commercial break.

Watershed Records' Andrew Peterson joined in America's favorite pastime, as he sang and played guitar for baseball fans at a recent Nashville Sounds game. The performance was part of WAY-FM's faith night series, intended to bring families together for an evening of entertainment, which features pre-game concerts by a number of contemporary Christian artists.

The Gospel Music Association’s Female Vocalist of 2002 and Word Recording artist Nicole C. Mullen will release her first Christmas project, Christmas In Black and White, on September 24th, followed up by a Christmas tour with John Tesh.

Congratulations to Point of Grace member Terry Jones, who delivered her third child, a girl, on August 7. The baby's name is Mallory Louise Jones. Point of Grace members Shelley Breen and Heather Payne are also both expecting, both due in September.

Metro One recently announced the addition of Canadian pop/rock band The Kry to its roster of artists. The band is reportedly in the studio now recording with producer Elijah Thompson, for its eighth album, entitled Undone. Metro One says that they'd been trying to attract The Kry to their roster for years. Undone is set for an October 1, 2002 release.

David and Goliath -The Musical, an audio musical from writers Steve Babb and Frederick Schendel and producer Robert Streets featuring the ultimate story of good and evil in a rock opera meets Broadway format, is set to release September 3, 2002 on Audio X with distribution through Diamante. "In a valley of media Goliaths, more often than not we see ourselves as a little David," says Audio X president Brian Hardin. "With a bit of faith and God's blessing, this record will be the smooth stone that hits its mark. The timing is right for something creative and poignant and we're fortunate enough to be able to meet that need with this record."

To commemorate the one year anniversary of the World Trade Center attacks, Allen & Allen Music Group (AAMG) will service America’s Spirit, a promotional CD containing original patriotic arrangements by award-winning inspirational Jazz duo Allen & Allen and the newest artist to emerge from Allen & Allen Music Group, 7th Element. Featured on the CD will be Allen & Allen’s instrumental medley of “America The Beautiful” and “God Bless America,” as well as 7th Element’s a cappella arrangement of “The Star Spangled Banner,” off their critically acclaimed debut release, Volume One.

*Thursday, August 8th, 2002*

David Crowder Band, Sparrow/sixstepsrecords’ biggest selling debut artist ever, recently met former presidential candidate and Senator Bob Dole in the Dallas/Fort Worth Airport. The senator was on his way to a speech in Palm Springs, CA, while the band was headed to the CBA Convention in Anaheim, CA. “We told him that we all voted for him,” says Toni Crowder, David Crowder Band tour manager, regarding Dole’s last presidential run, “and his response was, ‘Well, we’ve got ’em outnumbered then.’”

On August 4th, USA Weekend posted a rare interview with lead singer of rock mega stars Creed, Scott Stapp. While the band is strong in their beliefs for more positive music then the alternative violence portrayed by the pointlessly foul-mouthed and bloated Eminem, Stapp makes it clear where they stand as being labeled a Christian band. "We cannot say this enough," Stapp insists. "We are not a 'Christian band.' We have no agenda to lead others to believe in our specific beliefs." The article goes on to mention Stapp and fellow members' support for certain drug use and further examines the band's spiritual positions. While the members do struggle a lot with what they believe, they still seem to have their head on a little tighter than many secular artists these days. Stapp closes saying, "For every time Eminem -- who's obviously hurting inside, and kids just want to hear how far he's gonna go this time -- for every time he comes on the radio or MTV, there's got to be something positive. Something with merit. Something with heart. That's what we do." Read the full article for much more here: http://usaweekend.com/02_issues/020804/020804creed.html

The days of Kevin Max playing Christian music festivals are numbered. He will now try and reach out to other audiences who have been left behind by the church, such as the gay community.

In 2 weeks John Reuben will be shooting a video for "Doin'" in the wonderful city of Atlanta, GA. The video will be produced and directed by Johnathan Rej & Tom Bingham (Bleach, Further Seems Forever, Stretch Arm Strong) It's full court duck duck goose, fight club style!! Expect all sorts of cameos, the possible truth behind "the cleeze."

On September 24th, Phil Joel will release his sophomore solo project, Bring It On. It is produced by Joe Baldridge, who has worked with The Newsboys and Jewel.

Pillar drummer Brad Noone has left the band to spend more time at home with his wife. Their new drummer is 21 year old Lester Estelle from Kansas City, MO. In other Pillar news, it appears that MCA Records has taken a liking to the band. We'll see how this plays out.

On Tuesday, MTV announced that they will add blindside’s ferocious new video, "Pitiful" into rotation on MTV2! The video was directed by Nathan ‘Karma’ Cox and is getting a big reaction. Full time rotation of the video begins, Monday August 12th. After Blindside finishes up their promo tour with Project 86, they will embark on a string of dates with emo act Hoobastank, in September.

Heavy metal legends Bride are expected to release a new CD in early 2003. With band members recording side projects this year, little time has been spent on writing new material for Bride. When the band returns from Brazil at the end of September they claim that there "will be an all out assault on writing and putting together Bride's heaviest CD to date."

Capturing the songs and musical heartbeat of the Vineyard Christian Fellowship Nashville, Call To Worship is the debut album in Integrity Music's new House of Worship series. According to Vice President of Song Development Craig Dunnagan, the concept behind the House of Worship series is to capture the best of what is happening in local churches and present it to a global audience. Dunnagan says the concept is to provide a platform for local churches with excellent songs and dynamic music ministries. This goal of "harvesting" songs from local worship leaders is similar to the one that gave birth to Integrity's associate label, Hosanna! Music, 15 years ago. However, unlike the Hosanna! Music albums, which are recorded live and produced by the label, the House of Worship albums will often be studio recordings produced by local churches.

With the August 20 release of its debut album right around the corner, Daily Planet claims the No. 1 position on R&R's Christian CHR chart with its debut single, "Flying Blind." With a No. 1 song under its belt, Daily Planet now prepares its two-week promotional tour in key cities such as Chicago, Columbus, Ohio, Grand Rapids, Mich., and Orlando, Fla., among others. The band will conduct interviews with local radio and media outlets as well as perform concerts in designated areas. During its promotional tour, Daily Planet is scheduled to open up for Jars of Clay at "Glory in the Grove" in McMinnville, Ore.

Josh Scogin and Doolittle, vocalist and bassist of Norma Jean (Luti-Kriss) abruptly announced they were leaving the group at Furnace Fest. This is right before the release of their new album Bless the Martyr and Kiss the Child on Solid State Records.

Sparrow Records recently announced the signing of Jadyn Maria, who is currently gearing up to record her debut album slated to release in spring of 2003. Strongly influenced by her Latin roots, her album will reflect her heritage as well as her love of urban pop music. Already being noticed by the media, Jadyn Maria will be a featured artist in a story on Christian music that will be aired on the Today Show (NBC) on August 14th (tentative air date).

Award-winning comedian Chonda Pierce, who will release her latest video and CD project Be Afraid, Be Very Afraid this September 3rd, has also announced fall tour plans to support her new project. As one of the best selling comedians on the touring circuit today, drawing bigger crowds and serving up more laughs-for-thought than you can count, Pierce will hit 40+ cities this fall, showcasing material from Be Afraid, Be Very Afraid to audiences nationwide, including key markets like Seattle, Minneapolis and Chicago. On the new project as well as live, Pierce will discuss a topic relevant to everyone: fear. In her edgiest, funniest and most vulnerable performance yet, she unwraps the common fears women face.

Tree63 has almost completed their sophomore project also, which will be called The Life & Times Of Absolute Truth. Look for this on October 22nd and look for the band on the Festival Con Dios tour.

The three Out of Eden sisters recently finished recording two Christmas songs that will be featured on two different up coming Christmas projects. The ladies bring their own fresh style to the Christmas classics "O Little Town of Bethlehem" (WOW), and "Do You Hear What I Hear" (City on a Hill - Christmas). Both albums will be available in mid-September.

MTV2 is set to use 14 songs from the new Uprok Records release from Raphi entitled Cali Quake." The music will airs on the "MTV 2 Day" show as background music! The album hit shelves on July 30th.

Embodyment has now joined the all star lineup of XS Records. Their new CD, Songs For The Living, will be released on October 8th.

Say hello to the new breakthrough music faze entitled The Neverending White Lights. This is a collaboration of talented artists from around North America headed up by Canadian electronica recording artist and producer, Daniel Heavenward. Right now, Switchfoot and Starflyer 59 will join groups Elliott, Superdrag, Fountains of Wayne, 311, Remy Zero, Hum, and many more. Each album will feature different artists and released to the mainstream market. For more info, go to www.neverendingwhitelights.com

*Monday, August 5th, 2002*

It's already begun... The Rock N Roll Worship Circus has found their name among UK worship giants Delirious? on CBS.com listed as favorite bands of Jason from the television series Big Brother 3. When the band bumped into Jason in person but didn't realize who he was, a conversation was struck up and before they parted, Zurn, being the gracious drummer that he is, went out to the van to grab a copy of the band's phenomenal independent release Big Star Logistics to pass off to Jason. I guess you just never know who you could be talking to when you meet someone, do ya?

Veteran Christian rock act, Plankeye releases their final album on July 30th, Wings to Fly, which features the very best of Plankeye's six previous releases as well as 6 powerful new songs. 18 power pop hits brought to you by one of Christian music's pioneering rock bands. They will be missed.

News from Chordant recently is that tobyMac is still a huge hit a festivals. After maintaining his status as the #1 seller at festivals this summer, tobyMac's debut album, Momentum, set a new record for the Berean store at Spirit West Coast having sold the most units EVER. These sales add to the more than 200,000 units of Momentum already sold since its release last November. tobyMac is not only making huge showings at summer festivals, he's also confirmed for Festival Con Dios in the fall. And for the latest media, check him out in Hip-Hop features, in both the August issues of U Magazine and Charisma.

A new tour was recently announced featuring the likes of Project 86 and Blindside! Check out this very exciting tour before Blindside and Project drop their new records. Hundreds of promo cd's will be given away at each show with new Blindside & Project 86 songs! Blindside's Silence hits shelves on August 20th while Project's Truthless Heroes drops September 24th.

Retail giants Target and Wal Mart have both added Dove-Award winning group MercyMe's Song of the Year, "I Can Only Imagine" to their in-store video play, Target's Video Network, and Wal-Mart's PICS Network respectively. MercyMe is currently in the studio recording music for Spoken For, their follow-up project to the RIAA Gold-certified Almost There. The band is currently performing at summer festivals across the country, will be seen on the October cover of CCM, and will also be one of the headliners on this fall's Festival Con Dios tour.

Stacie Orrico is finally preparing for the January release of her sophomore album. The album, formerly titled Say It Again and was scheduled to be released in April of this year, will be released on ForeFront and Virgin Records.

David Crowder Band, Sparrow/sixstepsrecords’ biggest selling debut artist ever, was the featured artist at the recent Presbyterians For Renewal (PFR) Youth Ministry event, Fun In The Son, held in South Padre Island, Texas. Several hundred high school students attended the event and were treated to a high-energy concert by the David Crowder Band as they performed music from their critically acclaimed and current recording, Can You Hear Us?. “The David Crowder Band has an amazing ability to win audiences and to lead them into deeper worship,” notes Dr. Chuck Neder, PFR Youth Ministry founder and national director. “The band is without peer technically, however, they also possess the God given gift of being able to perform music that touches the heart and soul. In 30 years of doing youth ministry David Crowder ranks among the best I’ve ever ministered with."

Available on DVD or VHS on August 20th, Michael W. Smith's Worship DVD/VHS was filmed live in front of 15,000 youth in Edmonton, Alberta Canada. Worship DVD/VHS includes several classic praise and worship songs such as "Open the Eyes of My Heart" and an uplifting medley of "Step By Step/Forever We Will Sing" plus six new praise and worship songs.

Reunion Records artist NewSong recently returned from the set of the holiday movie The Christmas Shoes, to be aired on the CBS Television Network this upcoming holiday season. Shooting outdoor night scenes complete with snow, members of NewSong finished filming their cameo appearances in Halifax, Nova Scotia. A CBS Television Network crew was on hand to tape an EPK (electronic press kit) for the movie, interviewing The Christmas Shoes song co-writer and NewSong founding member, Eddie Carswell, and 2001 New York Times best-selling author of The Christmas Shoes novella, Donna VanLiere, for the video, in addition to the movie's stars Rob Lowe and Kimberly Williams.

This past weekend Audio Adrenaline was in Tulsa, OK for a “Brown Bag” promotion with local station KXOJ. The guys were at Tulsa’s waterpark and wave pool, The Ocean Floor, performing for fans and of course to discuss their current hit single, “Ocean Floor.” In other AA news, if you were one of the millions of people who caught last weeks episode of the latest hit reality TV show, Meet My Parents, you might have caught “Speak To Me” by Audio Adrenaline playing in the background.

Best wished go out to The Normals frontman, Andy Osenga. He and his bride Allison, exchanged wedding vows this past weekend. Congratulations to the happy couple!

Be watching for Geoff Moore on the Life Today show this month. On August 20, Geoff, his wife Jan and their baby girl Anna, will be traveling to Texas to appear on the show to discuss their experiences in adopting Anna from an orphanage in China.