THE HAPPENING
Following a season of listening, learning, and pressing into the promises of God, GRAMMY®-nominated, Dove Award-winning singer/songwriter RYAN STEVENSON returns with ABLE. His fourth full-length Gotee Records release, the highly anticipated eight song set—all co-penned by Stevenson—is a celebration of his identity in Christ.
The album’s opening track and latest digital single, “Closer” was written by Stevenson, Ethan Hulse and The Afters’ Jordan Mohilowski. Featured on Spotify’s New Music Friday Christian and Pandora’s New Christian Music Now, as well as other leading playlists, “Closer” depicts a watershed moment in Stevenson’s understanding of grace.
“I was raised in a strict religious environment, and I saw God through a lens of fear, wrath, and moodiness, thinking He was always disappointed in His creation,” Stevenson explains. “But in this last season, the Lord quietly led me out into a wilderness where He could get face-to-face with me. I believe He did this out of kindness and jealousy for my wholeness, to settle a lot of questions and doubts I’ve lived with for many years.”
“For the first time ever, I’ve become rooted and established in my beloved identity,” he adds. “The Holy Spirit has begun to peel off layers of insecurity and fear of rejection. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says we are ‘the righteousness of God,’ and Galatians 2:20 says we ‘have been crucified with Christ’ and that everything connected with the old flesh has died. This revelation has pierced my heart and brought me tremendous freedom and a passion for helping others see Jesus through the same lens.”
ABLE is also highlighted by the title-cut and debut single, a soul-stirring testimony of God’s faithfulness written by Stevenson, Blake NeeSmith and Jeff Pardo. In addition, the poignant “Carry Me,” which Stevenson co-penned with Micah Kuiper and AJ Prius, holds a particularly special meaning.
“’Carry Me’ is the deepest expression of how I’ve felt over the last three years,” Stevenson shares. “It’s been a daily prayer for me, having dealt with tremendous fear, uncertainty, and feelings of rejection. I experienced a lot of loneliness in this last season, and simply asking God to carry me felt like the prayer of a child longing for his dad.”
https://www.ryanstevensonmusic.com/
Grammy® Award winning VICTORY dropped her latest single last month, “Just Like In Heaven” from her upcoming sophomore album that will be released this spring. The track showcases Victory’s distinct and soulful vocals, bringing the full measure of her talent that blends gospel, blues, folk, pop, and soul musical styles. “Just Like In Heaven” follows the breakout song “El Shaddai” which has more than garnered more than 1.2 M Facebook views.
Says Victory: “Who says prayer has to be boring? ‘Just Like in Heaven’ is a prayer inspired by the words of Jesus with a beat inspired by Kanye. I wrote this song with the purpose of making prayer more easily accessible and culturally appealing to the youth of our generation.”
Victory’s first two collections on Roc Nation includes her EP “It’s a New Dawn” (2017), and the critically acclaimed debut album “The Broken Instrument” (2018).
The Central Baptist Church Choir of Dunn, NC has released, He Is, in early 2023 featuring many of their friends in Gospel Music who they’ve had the pleasure of sharing the stage with over the past few decades. The Nelons, Suzanne Taylor Hise, The Ben Rochester Family, Soul’d Out, The Mylon Hayes Family, Roy Harris and The Whisnants all join this eastern North Carolina 100+ voice choir for this special recording. Worship Pastor, Darren Hughes, says this is “a dream project we’ve been putting together for the past few years. We are honoured these artists would go out of their way to participate in this recording!”
Hughes, along with Matthew Lawson recorded the music tracks at Daywind Studios in Nashville then Ben Rochester was brought in as the vocal producer. Original songs such as The Way, The Truth, The Life and Come Expecting mixed with a few classics such as I’ve Never Been Sorry and the more obscure hymn, The Great Physician, flow together thematically with Andrew Peterson’s Is He Worthy to point the listener to who He is. “The Gospel of Jesus Christ is available for anyone at any age. “This record is a reflection of our intentionally multigenerational church allowing kids, millennials, grandparents and anyone in between to worship God.” Continues Hughes, “We even included our kid’s choir on a song!” https://cbcdunn.com/music/
US-based Ivorian anointed gospel music minister and worshiper, DEBBY K offers up a brand-new song and video titled “God of Miracles.”
Speaking on the inspiration and motivation behind the song, Debby says, “God of Miracles was given to me after a time of prayer and personal revival in my life.“The Lord use this Bible verse (Genesis.1:3-4) to do a miracle in my life, a breakthrough after 19 years of uncertainty, darkness, and stagnation, the Lord brought light in my life, through the Holy Spirit who taught me the power of speaking the Word of God in our situations.” – She says.
Debby released her first debut single titled “My Desire” in 2017, and 6 more singles since. “I’m Free” in 2018, “The Name of Jesus” in 2019, ”Oye Nyame” in 2020, “Plus de Toi” in 2021, “Mon Jesus, mon Sauveur” in 2022, and “God of Miracles” in 2023.
It is Debby’s desire to know The Lord more and understand His ways better so that through it all, she will live for Him and love Him deeply. It is also her prayer for the world and you, that as you listen to her songs, the Lord Jesus Christ will draw you closer to Himself so that you can also experience Him in a more personal way and live for Him. https://www.tiktok.com/@debbykouame
LOLA OMOBABA presents a beautiful worship song titled “Lamb Upon The Throne.” The song speaks about worshiping the Lamb who sits upon the throne and entreats the listener to ascribe all the glory and honour to the King of kings and Lord of lords.
In her words: “I received the inspiration for this worship song whilst driving to my place of work. I was worshiping God and suddenly the lyrics came to me. I quickly picked up my phone to record it and while recording the chorus, the verse of the song was released fresh from the throne room of grace and I started visualizing how heaven will look when we appear before the King of kings to worship Him with the 24 elders and the angels all day and night. My able producer, Amb. Wole Oni was able to arrange the song and gave it a finishing touch.
“I pray you get stirred to worship God as you listen to the song. God bless you!” https://www.instagram.com/lolaomobaba/?hl=en-gb
DONNA SINGER, the acclaimed international jazz vocalist and contemporary artist has just released a new song titled “Go and Seek the Light”. The song is an uplifting and inspiring message that encourages listeners to seek God’s love and light in their lives.
With her powerful and soulful voice, Donna Singer delivers a message of hope and faith through “Go and Seek the Light”. The song’s lyrics urge listeners to turn to God in times of struggle and to trust in His love and guidance. The catchy melody and upbeat tempo make it a perfect addition to any Christian music playlist.
“I am thrilled to release this new song and share my faith with my fans,” said Donna Singer. “In today’s world, we all need a reminder to seek God’s light and love. I hope this song inspires listeners to turn to God and find comfort in His presence.”
Donna Singer has been praised for her soulful voice and powerful songs. Her music has been featured on both Jazz and Christian radio stations across the country, and she has performed at numerous Christian music festivals and events.
LaTocha, the multi-platinum selling singer and songwriter from R&B super group Xscape, releases her debut solo album, "The Invitation: A Conversation with God," out today through her Made Girl Music Label in partnership with Motown Gospel/Capitol CMG.
The album is a combination of anthems, ballads, and songs of inspiration that speak to the highs, lows, and in-betweens of life. LaTocha’s vocal gift is a rarity and fans will fall in love with this vulnerable side of the beautiful artist.LaTocha has a voice that is anointed to bring forth a message of hope. "The Invitation: A Conversation with God"is a powerful album that will connect with anyone who takes the time to listen.
“Music has been my passion and saving grace for as long as I can remember,” said LaTocha. “Even throughout my R&B career, I’ve always made it a point to give God the praise for he is whom all my blessings flow, so to now be at a point where I’m able to marry my passion for music and with my love and devotion for God, I couldn’t be more proud of this full circle moment.“
Among the tracklist, “The Invitation” features the emotionally heartfelt single “I’m Yours.” “This song is an affirmation of my heart belonging to God," says LaTocha. "We all go through tough times, but this song is a reminder that no matter what we're facing, we are never alone. We are his and he is ours. I hope it ministers to everyone who hears it." https://www.instagram.com/iamlatocha/?hl=en
Switch Music Entertainment is thrilled to announce her latest signee, GRACE NELSON, as the newest addition to the Nigerian community of gospel music artists and ministers . With a heart for ministry and a voice that inspires, Grace is poised to take a seat within the ‘mindustry’ on this impactful ride as the world comes in contact with her contents.
Based in the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja), Grace was raised to be deeply rooted in the Christian faith. Like some others in the community, she began singing in the church choir at a young age. Sooner rather than later,it was clear that she had a gift for music. As she got older, she started writing her own songs, and her passion for spreading God’s love through music only grew stronger.
Grace’s journey to becoming a professional musician has been a long and winding one. She has performed at countless christian events and community gatherings over the years and has also been a part of some regional music festivals.
Switch Music Entertainment struck by Grace’s undeniable talent, and her unwavering commitment to her faith couldn’t resist the urge to team up with her to harness the treasures within and also carry the burden of conveying her message to the world.
Switch Music Entertainment is not only proud to embark on this journey with Grace into the world of gospel music and professional artistry but also pleased to announce the release of her first single – ‘MY PORTION’ produced by John for Ajlmusic. The debut single has its inspiration and bearings from Lamentations 3:24 & Psalm 16:5. https://www.instagram.com/gracenelsonsfanpage/
Provident Entertainment recently announced the signing of 5-time GRAMMY Award winner BRANDON LAKE to their artist roster. Lake has released two influential studio albums since 2020 and is readying new music to release later this year. His most recent project HELP!, a project in response to mental health awareness, released in 2022 including the songs “Fear Is Not My Future (feat. Chandler Moore)” and “Don’t You Give Up On Me”. His first album ‘House of Miracles’ includes the Billboard dubbed “breakthrough hit” Entitled “Gratitude”, which held the number one spot at Christian radio for several weeks.
“I couldn’t be more excited to partner with Provident and for what’s to come,” exclaims Lake. “With their team, I feel a genuine friendship and partnership, and know that there is a united goal of wanting to serve. This isn’t just about success, or trying to get the next #1; it’s about people, and serving people well.”
“Brandon Lake is one of the most gifted artists today! His raw talent and ability to connect with audiences on such a deep level is truly unparalleled,” shares Ron Hill, SVP of A&R, Provident Entertainment. “I am excited to have Brandon join our team and honored to support him on this journey. There is so much more to his musical story, and I believe that his music will not only inspire, but transform lives.” https://brandonlake.co/
American singer/songwriter ANDREW PETERSON is making a tour of the UK in May. The tour kicks off in Cambridge on 11th May and is followed by dates in Oxford (12th), Manchester (13th), Richhill (14th), Newtownards (16th) and Ballymena (17th). Andrew's last two album releases were 'Resurrection Letters Anthology' (2018) and 'Andrew Peterson Presents Behold The Lamb Of God: The True Tall Tale Of The Coming Of Christ - 20th Anniversary' (2019). https://www.andrew-peterson.com/tour
Trailblazing country singer/songwriter, GRANGER SMITH, has announced via his wildly popular social media accounts that he has decided to exit the music touring business to move towards a new chapter in his life.
“I’ve been so nervous to make this video, but I’m making this post to announce that this summer is my last ever tour,” said Granger, who has toured for 24 years. “I have felt a strong desire to pursue ministry. This doesn’t mean I’m going to start a church, but this is a time of learning and growing for me.
“I’m so hopeful about this future. Amber and I have been totally united on this. I know there are going to be a lot of questions and I’m going to try to stay engaged. I’m not going anywhere. I’m going to be here,” added Granger.
Smith’s “Like A River” farewell tour began April 13 and runs through August 26. Tour dates and tickets can be found at https://www.grangersmith.com/
In conjunction with this monumental life change, Smith also announced the upcoming release of his memoir, Like a River: Finding the Faith and Strength to Move Forward After Loss and Heartache, on August 1, 2023 (W Publishing Group, and imprint of Thomas Nelson).
The Latest New Single By ERIC REVERENCE “My Testimony” is a thanksgiving praise song.
With a simple structure and easy to Sing along, the song is complimented with Afrobeat and afro-fusion flavour that will surely get you on your feet with your dancing shoes on thanking God for what he has done. Psalm 22:22 “I will praise you to all my brothers; I will stand up before the congregation and testify of the wonderful things you have done.”
Eric said “with what God has done in my life and lifting me up in my lowest and darkest times, this is an opportunity to show my gratitude to the King of Kings and my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Testimonies are powerful in giving hope to others and if God had than great things in your life, don’t be silent and testify the goodness of God.”
Eric is a Multiple Award Winner and UK Christian artist.
https://www.instagram.com/ericreverence_/?hl=en
Seattle-based Worship team CANYON HILLS WORSHIP releases their new live album All To Jesus. Their fourth full length album features their new radio single “Every Season” along with nine other live tracks as well as live videos.
All To Jesus was produced by Michael Monroe, Andy Soemo, Stephen Pelatzky, David Neuman and was co-written by Michael Monroe, Koby Orr (Canyon Hills Worship) and Brandon Coker, Clay Finnesand (North Point Worship).
“Most of these songs were written at writing camps with our good friends Clay Finnesand and Brandon Coker from North Point Worship”, says Michael Monroe of Canyon Hills Worship. “They have become our constant collaborators. There’s something so special about writing with good friends. Getting to know the ins and outs of each other’s lives and walks with Jesus. These songs all came from a special place of honesty and vulnerability in those settings.”
The 10-song album showcases the live experience at Canyon Hills Community Church. The album also features live version of popular songs like “Mercy Of Jesus”, “Surrender” and “On and On.”
“Our heart as a band has always been to write songs for our church. For the people that the Lord has entrusted to us to lead in worship. There is something so special about singing a new song all together in that room. This project was born out of a desire to continue singing new songs to the Lord at Canyon Hills. What a blessing it is to see these songs starting to impact people outside of our four walls.” – Michael Monroe, Canyon Hills Worship. https://www.canyonhillscommunitychurch.com/worship/
‘All Power’, the latest offering from VESSELS UNITED, once again showcases the versatility and dynamism of the Manchester-based family group. While they often venture into R&B-influenced territory, ‘All Power’ finds them exploring a more Afrobeats-inspired sound.
The product is an infectious, dancefloor-filling anthem, which doubles-down on the captivating meeting-point between scriptural sensitivity and a radio-friendly, ultra-accessible sound.
As is tradition for Vessels United, ‘All Power’ is a family affair. Lucky, a worship leader at Manchester’s World Harvest Christian Centre, penned the uptempo track last year as an invigorating message to all those feeling down and discouraged. Ofure, Lucky’s daughter, takes the lead for the second verse, and in doing so introduces a spellbinding ethereality and subtlety to the track.
Lucky’s wife and son, Busola and David, also serve as rousing additions to ‘All Power’, highlighting the dexterity that is acilitated by the unique collaboration of the Vessels United family.
A SINGLE, "Walk This Road Together" by Coventry-based folk roots singer and multi-instrumentalist ROB HALLIGAN has been released. Guesting on the project, recorded at Halligan's studio The Sewing Room, are Ewan Cameron on whistle and Aidan O'Hare on fiddle. "Walk This Road Together" will be on Rob's forthcoming album 'Between The Songs'. https://robhalligan.co.uk/
Prolific highlife prince of the south-south, GODFADA returns with the official video of one of his lovely songs titled “Ikwo Uwem” directed by King Baseda.
Available on YouTube, this song is poised to bless your soul and minister to your spirit while providing a beautiful Melody to your hearing. The new single is an ingenious highlife remake of a popular Ibibio hymn and an original medley by Godfada. https://youtu.be/YGx15Bjaw_g
https://www.facebook.com/godfadayekasi/
StowTown Records has announced the release of a brand new album from THE BROWNS. Breakthrough features the gifted musical family at their very best, with the moving, rich harmonies and first-class arrangements that have made them a favourite among audiences nationwide. Breakthrough is distributed by Provident/Sony.
Breakthrough is the eighth recording on which The Browns have partnered with multi-award winning producer and arranger, Wayne Haun. “I remember seeing The Browns for the first time in Owensboro, Kentucky, at a talent contest,” recalls Wayne. “They were all kids. In fact, Andrew was so small they had to stand him up in a chair to be seen. I knew there was great potential even then. Here we are some 20 years later, and they are all grown up and hitting a home run every night. Their voices are mature and unique. They have created their own sound that is fresh and commercial. I’m just grateful they let me be a part of the journey.”
The Browns have enjoyed a great relationship with Wayne through the years, and with his guidance, their primary focus continues to be on the songs themselves. “We love making music!” exclaims Michaela Brown. “These songs we chose for the Breakthrough album are songs that we not only love to sing, but also relate to on a personal level. We love the messages they convey, the hope they bring and the joy they spread to those who hear them!” https://www.thebrownsmusic.com
Daywind Music Group has signed on The Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum’s very own resident Gospel group, TrueSong, to New Day Records. The group brings great Gospel music to their large daily audiences, infused with worship, southern, and country sounds. TrueSong is nominated as “Favorite New Artist” for the 2023 Singing News Fan Awards.
TrueSong’s debut radio release and streaming release is “Army of Love,” which debuted on LifeFM with the Family Friendly Morning Show with Rodney and Reagan. TrueSong will release a second song to streaming platforms entitled, “Believe for It” on May 19th, with their full-length album Tell Someone releasing on June 9. https://www.facebook.com/TrueSongMusic/