2009 is the 40th year for the GMA Dove Awards, and brought my (Mike's) 40th birthday as well!
While I haven't gotten to see the show itself yet (it was on Gospel Music Channel last Thursday night, and we don't have cable), I was eager to see how everything played out awards-wise.
New Artist of the Year: Several of this year's nominees (like Fee and Addison Road) have won me over with their debut releases, but I figured it was down to two- Francesca Battistelli and Tenth Avenue North, both of whom I adore)- to battle it out for this year's honors. Both artists have had great success at radio and retail, and have really connected with fans. I would have been pleased with either one being the winner, but must admit to having a special affinity for Mike Donehey & the fellas of Tenth Ave. Their album sounds great start to finish, and their insightful lyrics make it a good read as well. It's great to have a ballot of new artist nominees that have really done a great job over the past year, and have brought some fresh sounds to the CCM scene.
Brandon Heath: It's pretty impressive when an artist leaps from New Artist one year to both Male Vocalist of the Year and Song of the Year ("Give Me Your Eyes") the next, and I must admit that Brandon had me on board from first listen. Well done, B- what do you do for an encore?
Female Vocalist: Natalie Grant took home this Dove for the 4th straight year- the only lady with more wins in this category is the formidable Sandy Patti. But watch your back, Nat- I think our girl Mandisa may give you a run for your money in 2010. Don't say you weren't warned!
Shout outs also go to Laura Story, whose debut "Great God Who Saves" nabbed honors for Inspirational Album of the Year, and to Group 1 Crew, whose took Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year for their sophomore release, "Ordinary Dreamers", both personal favorites who have contributed A-Game projects to the CCM genres, and again, represent new artists who are making their mark. Of course, it's great to see stalwarts like Casting Crowns, Chapman, Smitty and Tomlin toting a bird trophy as well- they set the pace very nicely, and continue to make amazing contributions in the field. But you'll have to forgive me if I get really psyched about up-and-comers like Ayiesha Woods, Fireflight, Brooke Fraser, Leeland, newworldson, Jeremy Riddle and Seabird turning heads -and ears- with fresh new sounds. Keep up the great work everyone!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Friday, April 24, 2009
EMI's New Faces Showcase
New Faces Showcase
Gospel Music Week: Entry Nine (Wednesday, 4/22 2-3:30pm)
Wednesday afternoon I was privileged to be part of a small group invited to EMI's home offices for a showcase of several of their newest artists. These five artists- Above the Golden State, Danyew, Britt Nicole, Sarah Reeves & Josh Wilson- are all presently touring together as part of an innovative tour called the New Faces Tour. It was a great way to end GMA Week for me, reminding me that not only are there a number of strong established acts anchoring the CCM scene, but there are numerous gifted young artists who are arriving on the scene, and will continue to carry the torch into the future. Artists like Francesca Battistelli, Brandon Heath, Leeland and Tenth Avenue North bode well for the future. As GMA president John Styll aptly stated in one session this week, neither music nor the gospel are going to disappear from the cultural landscape, so we can safely assume that gospel music, in some form, will likewise continue to come to bear as well.
When I hear artists like these, my heart is encouraged, and I know that the gospel message will indeed continue forward from the words, both spoken and sung, of these young troubadours. Texas native Josh Wilson is a gifted singer-songwriter whose 2008 release "Trying to Fit the Ocean in a Cup" is one of my favorite albums of the last year, and can be picked up by inquisitive listeners for a mere $7.99. Sarah Reeves is a gentle worship leader from Alabama, while Danyew is a California-born worshipper with a fresh sound. Both unleashed excellent 6-song introductory albums for $5's each this past week. Above the Golden State is a Oregon-bred 3-piece pop-rock band with a $7.99 full length debut currently in stores. Britt Nicole will be unleashing a new project (her second) on August 11th. I was truly blown away by all three songs she shared, her musical diversity, her richly textured vocals and her obvious heart to glorify God. If these songs are any indication, she is growing way beyond the pop sounds of her excellent debut, and will be a force to be reckoned with in the future! Of all the artists, she was my biggest surpise, and I eagerly anticipate her next album.
EMI is making a concerted effort to sign excellent new artists, who have a depth of talent that will transcend trends and one-hit wonders. Additionally, they've launched a new initiative called Now Hear This to make new artists worth the consumer risk. So far, EMI has released $7.99 full-length debut projects from Above the Golden State, Capital Lights, Julian Drive, Phillip LaRue, Kristian Stanfill and Josh Wilson. In addition, they've released $5 6-song projects to introduce artists like Abandon, Danyew, Philmont, Sarah Reeves and Jason Allen Rich. The goal is to deliver 6 songs now, and another 6-song disc in about 6 months, providing new music not only at a low-risk price point, but also more often. Future artists will include Chris & Conrad, Future of Forestry, Christy Nockels and Seven Stories Up. For a limited time, EMI is offering a 13-song Now Hear This Sampler for $1.99 or FREE with the purchase of any featured title. What a great opportunity to check out a baker's dozen of promising new artists and hopefully find a few new favorites! When's the last time you got 18 great songs for $5? Yeah, I've never (legally) gotten that before either! Not only is it a great deal, but you'll be getting in on the ground floor of some truly amazing artists. Grace & Peace. -Mike
Gospel Music Week: Entry Nine (Wednesday, 4/22 2-3:30pm)
Wednesday afternoon I was privileged to be part of a small group invited to EMI's home offices for a showcase of several of their newest artists. These five artists- Above the Golden State, Danyew, Britt Nicole, Sarah Reeves & Josh Wilson- are all presently touring together as part of an innovative tour called the New Faces Tour. It was a great way to end GMA Week for me, reminding me that not only are there a number of strong established acts anchoring the CCM scene, but there are numerous gifted young artists who are arriving on the scene, and will continue to carry the torch into the future. Artists like Francesca Battistelli, Brandon Heath, Leeland and Tenth Avenue North bode well for the future. As GMA president John Styll aptly stated in one session this week, neither music nor the gospel are going to disappear from the cultural landscape, so we can safely assume that gospel music, in some form, will likewise continue to come to bear as well.
When I hear artists like these, my heart is encouraged, and I know that the gospel message will indeed continue forward from the words, both spoken and sung, of these young troubadours. Texas native Josh Wilson is a gifted singer-songwriter whose 2008 release "Trying to Fit the Ocean in a Cup" is one of my favorite albums of the last year, and can be picked up by inquisitive listeners for a mere $7.99. Sarah Reeves is a gentle worship leader from Alabama, while Danyew is a California-born worshipper with a fresh sound. Both unleashed excellent 6-song introductory albums for $5's each this past week. Above the Golden State is a Oregon-bred 3-piece pop-rock band with a $7.99 full length debut currently in stores. Britt Nicole will be unleashing a new project (her second) on August 11th. I was truly blown away by all three songs she shared, her musical diversity, her richly textured vocals and her obvious heart to glorify God. If these songs are any indication, she is growing way beyond the pop sounds of her excellent debut, and will be a force to be reckoned with in the future! Of all the artists, she was my biggest surpise, and I eagerly anticipate her next album.
EMI is making a concerted effort to sign excellent new artists, who have a depth of talent that will transcend trends and one-hit wonders. Additionally, they've launched a new initiative called Now Hear This to make new artists worth the consumer risk. So far, EMI has released $7.99 full-length debut projects from Above the Golden State, Capital Lights, Julian Drive, Phillip LaRue, Kristian Stanfill and Josh Wilson. In addition, they've released $5 6-song projects to introduce artists like Abandon, Danyew, Philmont, Sarah Reeves and Jason Allen Rich. The goal is to deliver 6 songs now, and another 6-song disc in about 6 months, providing new music not only at a low-risk price point, but also more often. Future artists will include Chris & Conrad, Future of Forestry, Christy Nockels and Seven Stories Up. For a limited time, EMI is offering a 13-song Now Hear This Sampler for $1.99 or FREE with the purchase of any featured title. What a great opportunity to check out a baker's dozen of promising new artists and hopefully find a few new favorites! When's the last time you got 18 great songs for $5? Yeah, I've never (legally) gotten that before either! Not only is it a great deal, but you'll be getting in on the ground floor of some truly amazing artists. Grace & Peace. -Mike
Tuesday Lunch Mix
Tuesday Lunch Mix
Gospel Music Week: Entry Eight (Tuesday 4/21)
This year's Tuesday luncheon roster was comprised primarily of EMI artists, with a few New Day and Provident artists thrown in for good measure. We heard from established artists like Mandisa, Canton Jones, Crabb Revival and MercyMe, as well 3-songs sets from new artists like Press Play and Steve Petree. Petree has been a member and primary songwriter for mainstream band Shiny Toy Guns, and has recently left the band to pursue a solo career in the Christian market. His debut album, "Moving in Pairs", is slated for a July 28th release, and if the songs we heard ("Getting to Know You", "Run On" and "Stars Tipped Over") are any indication, they this is going to be a truly phenomenal album. Steve pens compelling lyrics, intricate and engaging melodies, and his vocals are emotive and innovative.
I'm a big fan of getting a chance to hear from new artists, so this luncheon was a real treat.
Gospel Music Week: Entry Eight (Tuesday 4/21)
This year's Tuesday luncheon roster was comprised primarily of EMI artists, with a few New Day and Provident artists thrown in for good measure. We heard from established artists like Mandisa, Canton Jones, Crabb Revival and MercyMe, as well 3-songs sets from new artists like Press Play and Steve Petree. Petree has been a member and primary songwriter for mainstream band Shiny Toy Guns, and has recently left the band to pursue a solo career in the Christian market. His debut album, "Moving in Pairs", is slated for a July 28th release, and if the songs we heard ("Getting to Know You", "Run On" and "Stars Tipped Over") are any indication, they this is going to be a truly phenomenal album. Steve pens compelling lyrics, intricate and engaging melodies, and his vocals are emotive and innovative.
I'm a big fan of getting a chance to hear from new artists, so this luncheon was a real treat.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Centricity Showcase
Centricity Showcase at the Rutledge
Gospel Music Week: Entry 7 (Monday 4/20 9-11pm)
Centricity is one of the labels distributed by Word Music. I was excited to attend this showcase because I really tend to like the types of artists that tend to sign with their label. Andrew Peterson and Jason Gray (with a new release slated for September), both of whom I mention in my Artist Reception entry, are both Centricity artists. Downhere, Jamie Jamgochian and Daniel Kirkley are all with Centricity as well. Tonight's showcase featured five of their artists, four new and one established. The established artist, Downhere, was the finale of the line-up, and knowing that I had an early Tuesday morning, I slipped out before they did their set. I've heard and liked Downhere, but really wanted to access the "newbies"! :)
Things kicked off with Sixteen Cities, a five-piece pop-rock band from Portland. Their three songs were very enjoyable, and I anticipate that they'll connect very well with youth audiences as they tour. We'll have to wait to see how their debut CD (currently slated for mid-September) captures their sound.
Matt Pappa is a powerful, high-energy worship leader, with a decidedly Crowder-esque flavor and his own unique flair. Lanae Hale was a pleasant surprise, as I'm pretty fussy on the female artists who capture my favor. She has a great vocal sound, with just enough airiness and just enough grit to keep things interested. I'm now looking forward to her May 19th release a great deal.
But the standout of the night was easily Meinmotion, a killer 3-man retro-rock/punk band who blew me away! The toured with Fireflight this past year, and made quite a buzz at a local show they had done at UCCC. One of our music staffers, Josh, had been in attendance, and has been gently harassing me for any hint of what label they were with and/or when an album would be coming out. Now I understand his urgency- these guys are simply amazing! While I don't know any dates yet, I'll definitely be keeping everyone posted! Grace and Peace. -Mike
Gospel Music Week: Entry 7 (Monday 4/20 9-11pm)
Centricity is one of the labels distributed by Word Music. I was excited to attend this showcase because I really tend to like the types of artists that tend to sign with their label. Andrew Peterson and Jason Gray (with a new release slated for September), both of whom I mention in my Artist Reception entry, are both Centricity artists. Downhere, Jamie Jamgochian and Daniel Kirkley are all with Centricity as well. Tonight's showcase featured five of their artists, four new and one established. The established artist, Downhere, was the finale of the line-up, and knowing that I had an early Tuesday morning, I slipped out before they did their set. I've heard and liked Downhere, but really wanted to access the "newbies"! :)
Things kicked off with Sixteen Cities, a five-piece pop-rock band from Portland. Their three songs were very enjoyable, and I anticipate that they'll connect very well with youth audiences as they tour. We'll have to wait to see how their debut CD (currently slated for mid-September) captures their sound.
Matt Pappa is a powerful, high-energy worship leader, with a decidedly Crowder-esque flavor and his own unique flair. Lanae Hale was a pleasant surprise, as I'm pretty fussy on the female artists who capture my favor. She has a great vocal sound, with just enough airiness and just enough grit to keep things interested. I'm now looking forward to her May 19th release a great deal.
But the standout of the night was easily Meinmotion, a killer 3-man retro-rock/punk band who blew me away! The toured with Fireflight this past year, and made quite a buzz at a local show they had done at UCCC. One of our music staffers, Josh, had been in attendance, and has been gently harassing me for any hint of what label they were with and/or when an album would be coming out. Now I understand his urgency- these guys are simply amazing! While I don't know any dates yet, I'll definitely be keeping everyone posted! Grace and Peace. -Mike
Artist Reception
Artist Reception
Gospel Music Week: Entry Six (Monday 4/20 2pm-3:30pm)
Artist Receptions are weird.
Okay, for the uninitiated, GMA Week is pretty much top-to-bottom weird.
Let me explain- you're walking about through the convention center, when you pass a group of oddly-dressed (yes, I'm getting old!) young men, with their hair configured with a nearly obscene quantity of hair care products. Slowly it dawns on you that you recognize them...from an album cover in your CD collection!
GMA means spending an entire week passing "famous" people, but having to pretend like it means nothing to you, and is as much an everyday occurence to you as brushing your teeth. Geeking out is frowned upon, and kind of flies in the face of the whole we're-all-professionals-here venere that gets applied to everything. And yes, I know and acknowledge intellectually that these artists are fallible human beings just like each one of us. It all kinds of gets messed up in my head, though, because I've never been the focus of an elaborate photo shoot; I've never been asked for my autograph; I've never had a gaggle of teen-aged girls scream my name in adoration. (In the interest of fairness, I am a part-time youth pastor, so I HAVE had teen-aged girls scream my name, but it's never been in adoration!)
All of that to say, these artist meet-&-greet things are an incredible cool, but incredibly awkward, proposition for me. I'm not really a schmoozer kind of guy, although I have been known to gush a bit at a favorite artist. There are only so many variation on the theme of I-really-like-your-music that even a wordy fellow such as myself can come up with, and I often feel like I couldn't possibly say anything that they haven't had expressed hundreds of time before in dozens of more profound and dramatic ways. I'm still learning that I just need to be genuine, speak truth and be encouraging- the rest is up to God! That said, I was dreading going to this year's artist reception! I had prepared some simple questions, in hopes of asking some artists and posting the results to our brand spankin' new store blog over the coming weeks. Faced with the reality however, I got a bad case of cold feet and just wanted to make a run for it! Thankfully, I prayed, surrendered the whole thing to God and asked Him to help me keep the whole thing in perspective. And God was so very kind!
I got to visit with a number of wonderful artists. Justin Unger, formerly of Across the Sky and now a terrific solo artist, had been to Arrowhead several years ago with Avalon and Mark Schultz. Last year, a rep had introduced me to Justin after a showcase event, and we had gotten to visit for a few minutes. So imagine my delight when I walked through the doors to the artist reception and the first person to greet me was Justin! I have no idea whether he actually remembered me or just faked it really, really well, but it didn't matter. His warm smile and genuine interaction put me completely at ease. (Thanks, Justin- I owe you one!) I proceeded to meet (and interview) Katie Giguere, Pocket Full of Rocks' Michael and David, and Rush of Fools' Jacob and J.D. I also got to interact with new artists like Jonny Diaz, Sixteen Cities' Josiah, Joel and Dustin, and 1000 Generations' Steve and Lorin. 1000 Generations is a top-notch worship band that I've been following for years on the indie scene. I'm psyched that they've been signed with Vineyard's Varietal label, and will be releasing a new album in August! The first single, "Fail Us Not" has started being picked up by radio stations nationwide (including our own FLN!), and is one of my absolute favorite songs right now. I'll be writing more on that as time allows.
God gave me an extra-special gift in allowing me to interact with a few artists who top my favorites list. First, the sublime Ginny Owens, who will be releasing a new project in June, who is such a class act and inspiration to me. Second, the humble Andrew Peterson, who writes songs of profound depth and artistry AND is penning a delightful youth fantasy series that I've been reading to my kids ("On The Edge of The Dark Sea of Darkness" is book 1; book 2 is slated for an August release). Lastly, the gentle giant Jason Gray, whose "Acoustic Storytime" project is my personal #1 project of 2008. It's a vulnerable live project which masterfully showcases everything that makes Jason a hidden gem- gorgeous story-songs, understated humor and relatable narrative. I have laughed, cried and been broken before God as I've gone on this remarkable journey with Jason. ("Acoustic Storytime" is available from Jason's website and on iTunes) I came away profoundly blessed by my interaction with these three in particular, and awe-struck anew at the ways in which God chooses to work, and the commonalities we all share as fellow travelers.
Grace and Peace. -Mike
Gospel Music Week: Entry Six (Monday 4/20 2pm-3:30pm)
Artist Receptions are weird.
Okay, for the uninitiated, GMA Week is pretty much top-to-bottom weird.
Let me explain- you're walking about through the convention center, when you pass a group of oddly-dressed (yes, I'm getting old!) young men, with their hair configured with a nearly obscene quantity of hair care products. Slowly it dawns on you that you recognize them...from an album cover in your CD collection!
GMA means spending an entire week passing "famous" people, but having to pretend like it means nothing to you, and is as much an everyday occurence to you as brushing your teeth. Geeking out is frowned upon, and kind of flies in the face of the whole we're-all-professionals-here venere that gets applied to everything. And yes, I know and acknowledge intellectually that these artists are fallible human beings just like each one of us. It all kinds of gets messed up in my head, though, because I've never been the focus of an elaborate photo shoot; I've never been asked for my autograph; I've never had a gaggle of teen-aged girls scream my name in adoration. (In the interest of fairness, I am a part-time youth pastor, so I HAVE had teen-aged girls scream my name, but it's never been in adoration!)
All of that to say, these artist meet-&-greet things are an incredible cool, but incredibly awkward, proposition for me. I'm not really a schmoozer kind of guy, although I have been known to gush a bit at a favorite artist. There are only so many variation on the theme of I-really-like-your-music that even a wordy fellow such as myself can come up with, and I often feel like I couldn't possibly say anything that they haven't had expressed hundreds of time before in dozens of more profound and dramatic ways. I'm still learning that I just need to be genuine, speak truth and be encouraging- the rest is up to God! That said, I was dreading going to this year's artist reception! I had prepared some simple questions, in hopes of asking some artists and posting the results to our brand spankin' new store blog over the coming weeks. Faced with the reality however, I got a bad case of cold feet and just wanted to make a run for it! Thankfully, I prayed, surrendered the whole thing to God and asked Him to help me keep the whole thing in perspective. And God was so very kind!
I got to visit with a number of wonderful artists. Justin Unger, formerly of Across the Sky and now a terrific solo artist, had been to Arrowhead several years ago with Avalon and Mark Schultz. Last year, a rep had introduced me to Justin after a showcase event, and we had gotten to visit for a few minutes. So imagine my delight when I walked through the doors to the artist reception and the first person to greet me was Justin! I have no idea whether he actually remembered me or just faked it really, really well, but it didn't matter. His warm smile and genuine interaction put me completely at ease. (Thanks, Justin- I owe you one!) I proceeded to meet (and interview) Katie Giguere, Pocket Full of Rocks' Michael and David, and Rush of Fools' Jacob and J.D. I also got to interact with new artists like Jonny Diaz, Sixteen Cities' Josiah, Joel and Dustin, and 1000 Generations' Steve and Lorin. 1000 Generations is a top-notch worship band that I've been following for years on the indie scene. I'm psyched that they've been signed with Vineyard's Varietal label, and will be releasing a new album in August! The first single, "Fail Us Not" has started being picked up by radio stations nationwide (including our own FLN!), and is one of my absolute favorite songs right now. I'll be writing more on that as time allows.
God gave me an extra-special gift in allowing me to interact with a few artists who top my favorites list. First, the sublime Ginny Owens, who will be releasing a new project in June, who is such a class act and inspiration to me. Second, the humble Andrew Peterson, who writes songs of profound depth and artistry AND is penning a delightful youth fantasy series that I've been reading to my kids ("On The Edge of The Dark Sea of Darkness" is book 1; book 2 is slated for an August release). Lastly, the gentle giant Jason Gray, whose "Acoustic Storytime" project is my personal #1 project of 2008. It's a vulnerable live project which masterfully showcases everything that makes Jason a hidden gem- gorgeous story-songs, understated humor and relatable narrative. I have laughed, cried and been broken before God as I've gone on this remarkable journey with Jason. ("Acoustic Storytime" is available from Jason's website and on iTunes) I came away profoundly blessed by my interaction with these three in particular, and awe-struck anew at the ways in which God chooses to work, and the commonalities we all share as fellow travelers.
Grace and Peace. -Mike
Word Music's Big Hits Luncheon
Word Music's Big Hits Luncheon
Gospel Music Week: Entry Five (Monday, April 20th 11:30am-1:15pm)
Word Music demonstrated their many strengths at this years luncheon.
Veteran artists? Word had it covered, with performances by Point of Grace ("King of the World"), Diamond Rio ("God is There", from their upcoming fall release) and Mark Schultz (a new tearjerker from his much-anticipated August album), while the three Barlowgirl sisters (with a new album slated for September) provided entertaining banter between performances. Word has plenty of established artists who weren't featured at this event, including Nicole C Mullen, Selah, Fernando Ortega, Big Daddy Weave, Downhere and Natalie Grant.
Successfully launched artists? No problem there either. The Big Hits luncheon featured tried-and-true artists like Group 1 Crew, Remedy Drive, Meredith Andrews and Francesca Battistelli, all of whom have had tremendous successes in the last year. Group 1 Crew is turning heads on the Revolve Tour, Remedy Drive has been in-demand for the summer festival circuit, Meredith Andrews is a nuanced vocal powerhouse who has radio's ear, while Francesca Battistelli has garnered attention and accolades from all corners of the market. Artists like Jeremy Riddle, Decemberadio, Aaron Shust, Ayiesha Woods, needtobreathe and PureNRG could easily have appeared as well.
New artists? The luncheon also gave attention to Sattelites & Sirens (late May release) and Sidewalk Prophets (August release). Thanks Word for a tasty lunch AND a balanced musical diet! -Mike
Gospel Music Week: Entry Five (Monday, April 20th 11:30am-1:15pm)
Word Music demonstrated their many strengths at this years luncheon.
Veteran artists? Word had it covered, with performances by Point of Grace ("King of the World"), Diamond Rio ("God is There", from their upcoming fall release) and Mark Schultz (a new tearjerker from his much-anticipated August album), while the three Barlowgirl sisters (with a new album slated for September) provided entertaining banter between performances. Word has plenty of established artists who weren't featured at this event, including Nicole C Mullen, Selah, Fernando Ortega, Big Daddy Weave, Downhere and Natalie Grant.
Successfully launched artists? No problem there either. The Big Hits luncheon featured tried-and-true artists like Group 1 Crew, Remedy Drive, Meredith Andrews and Francesca Battistelli, all of whom have had tremendous successes in the last year. Group 1 Crew is turning heads on the Revolve Tour, Remedy Drive has been in-demand for the summer festival circuit, Meredith Andrews is a nuanced vocal powerhouse who has radio's ear, while Francesca Battistelli has garnered attention and accolades from all corners of the market. Artists like Jeremy Riddle, Decemberadio, Aaron Shust, Ayiesha Woods, needtobreathe and PureNRG could easily have appeared as well.
New artists? The luncheon also gave attention to Sattelites & Sirens (late May release) and Sidewalk Prophets (August release). Thanks Word for a tasty lunch AND a balanced musical diet! -Mike
Songwriter Showcase
Songwriter Showcase
Gospel Music Week: Entry Four (Sunday, April 19th 7pm)
Across my seven years attending GMA Week, the Songwriter Showcase has consistently been among my favorite events of the entire week. I love getting to hear from the songwriters themselves (who may or may not be the artist we commonly associate the songs with), gaining insight into the process through which the song itself was birthed. I love the banter, comraderie and respect that is evident from writers in different music genres- when you see a pierced and tattooed young rocker hugging on and weeping with a Southern Gospel patriarch, you know that there is a unifier -God Himself- that supercedes our musical differences and preferences.
This years' Showcase featured acoustic performances by artists like Matthew West, Chris Sligh, Big Daddy Weave's Mike Weaver (with Don Chaffer of Waterdeep fame, with whom he wrote "What Life Would Be Like") and Natalie Grant. Francesca Battistelli, joined by Ian Eskelin and Tony Wood, presented the freshest and funnest song of the night with her hit "I'm Letting Go". Songwriting powerhouse Sam Mizell joined Matthew West for "You Are Everything", then flew solo later in the program with a stunning piano version of the song he wrote for Addison Road, "All That Matters". A personal highlight for me was when Jason Ingram presented the song he co-wrote with Brandon Heath, "Give Me Your Eyes". I've followed Jason (son of Walk Through the Bible preacher Chip Ingram) from his days with JIB/Jason Ingram Band to solo efforts to worship rock The Longing and now to co-writing and producing with artists like the exceptional and wise-beyond-their-years Tenth Avenue North. Jason, thank you for a wonderful performance, and one that reminded me that, while writing and producing are fine, you still have lots to offer in front of the microphone as well.
The evening closed with a worship set for the nations, led by Australians Ben Fielding and Reuben Morgan (who had performed their song "Mighty to Save" earlier in the night), Englishman Brenton Brown and state-side songstress Laura Story (if you consider yourself a connesieur of great worship music and don't have Brenton's and Laura's CD's in your collection, that's a oversight you should remedy post haste). While a huge change from the Michael W Smith & friends Ryman auditorium events of previous years, I really enjoyed the more intimate setting and understated presentation. Kudos to GMA leadership for taking lemons and making delicious lemonade. Grace and Peace. -Mike
Gospel Music Week: Entry Four (Sunday, April 19th 7pm)
Across my seven years attending GMA Week, the Songwriter Showcase has consistently been among my favorite events of the entire week. I love getting to hear from the songwriters themselves (who may or may not be the artist we commonly associate the songs with), gaining insight into the process through which the song itself was birthed. I love the banter, comraderie and respect that is evident from writers in different music genres- when you see a pierced and tattooed young rocker hugging on and weeping with a Southern Gospel patriarch, you know that there is a unifier -God Himself- that supercedes our musical differences and preferences.
This years' Showcase featured acoustic performances by artists like Matthew West, Chris Sligh, Big Daddy Weave's Mike Weaver (with Don Chaffer of Waterdeep fame, with whom he wrote "What Life Would Be Like") and Natalie Grant. Francesca Battistelli, joined by Ian Eskelin and Tony Wood, presented the freshest and funnest song of the night with her hit "I'm Letting Go". Songwriting powerhouse Sam Mizell joined Matthew West for "You Are Everything", then flew solo later in the program with a stunning piano version of the song he wrote for Addison Road, "All That Matters". A personal highlight for me was when Jason Ingram presented the song he co-wrote with Brandon Heath, "Give Me Your Eyes". I've followed Jason (son of Walk Through the Bible preacher Chip Ingram) from his days with JIB/Jason Ingram Band to solo efforts to worship rock The Longing and now to co-writing and producing with artists like the exceptional and wise-beyond-their-years Tenth Avenue North. Jason, thank you for a wonderful performance, and one that reminded me that, while writing and producing are fine, you still have lots to offer in front of the microphone as well.
The evening closed with a worship set for the nations, led by Australians Ben Fielding and Reuben Morgan (who had performed their song "Mighty to Save" earlier in the night), Englishman Brenton Brown and state-side songstress Laura Story (if you consider yourself a connesieur of great worship music and don't have Brenton's and Laura's CD's in your collection, that's a oversight you should remedy post haste). While a huge change from the Michael W Smith & friends Ryman auditorium events of previous years, I really enjoyed the more intimate setting and understated presentation. Kudos to GMA leadership for taking lemons and making delicious lemonade. Grace and Peace. -Mike
Mocha Club
Gospel Music Week: Entry Three
"What if you and your friends -together- could change the lives of orphans...
....by giving up only two mochas a month?"
THAT got my attention! so I decided to check it out, and you can too, at http://www.mochaclub.org/
Mocha Club is a ground-breaking online community giving $7 a month to fund relief and development projects in Africa, providing a way for people who don't have hundreds or thousands of dollars to make a difference in Africa. I (Mike) joined Mocha Club today with a pledge of $7/month, and established my own group -Arrowhead Mocha. :) I'll be getting more information posted within the next few days on how you can join our group, if you so desire. I've often felt the frustration of not feeling like I had the financial resources to participate in excellent programs like Compassion or World Vision. Mocha Club impressed me with their vision, reports of what has been accomplished thus far and the ability of anyone, especially teens and college students, to be part of something bigger than themselves and more enduring than a cup of mocha.
I was also profoundly impressed with the roster of artists who have allied themselves with Mocha Club, many of whom are already on my list of personal favorites, including Addison Road, Dave Barnes, Randall Goodgame, Ginny Owens, Eric Peters, Sanctus Real and Matt Wertz. I was privileged to hear acoustic showcases by three impressive indie artists who are also involved in extending the cause of Mocha Club- Benton Blount, Amy Stroup and Mark Wagner, all three powerful and visionary musicians. All three have myspace pages you may want to check out, as well as music available via CDBaby and/or iTunes. I also got to hear an energetic acoustic performance by Michael Gungor, who was simply incredible. Whether you're a coffee fiend or not (I must confess to falling into the later category!), MochaClub provides a great opportunity to give a little out of your personal plenty and see the incredible way you can be the hands and feet of Jesus in a hurting world. Grace and Peace. -Mike
Gospel Music Week: Entry Three
"What if you and your friends -together- could change the lives of orphans...
....by giving up only two mochas a month?"
THAT got my attention! so I decided to check it out, and you can too, at http://www.mochaclub.org/
Mocha Club is a ground-breaking online community giving $7 a month to fund relief and development projects in Africa, providing a way for people who don't have hundreds or thousands of dollars to make a difference in Africa. I (Mike) joined Mocha Club today with a pledge of $7/month, and established my own group -Arrowhead Mocha. :) I'll be getting more information posted within the next few days on how you can join our group, if you so desire. I've often felt the frustration of not feeling like I had the financial resources to participate in excellent programs like Compassion or World Vision. Mocha Club impressed me with their vision, reports of what has been accomplished thus far and the ability of anyone, especially teens and college students, to be part of something bigger than themselves and more enduring than a cup of mocha.
I was also profoundly impressed with the roster of artists who have allied themselves with Mocha Club, many of whom are already on my list of personal favorites, including Addison Road, Dave Barnes, Randall Goodgame, Ginny Owens, Eric Peters, Sanctus Real and Matt Wertz. I was privileged to hear acoustic showcases by three impressive indie artists who are also involved in extending the cause of Mocha Club- Benton Blount, Amy Stroup and Mark Wagner, all three powerful and visionary musicians. All three have myspace pages you may want to check out, as well as music available via CDBaby and/or iTunes. I also got to hear an energetic acoustic performance by Michael Gungor, who was simply incredible. Whether you're a coffee fiend or not (I must confess to falling into the later category!), MochaClub provides a great opportunity to give a little out of your personal plenty and see the incredible way you can be the hands and feet of Jesus in a hurting world. Grace and Peace. -Mike
Monday, April 20, 2009
While Mike's Away
Hello all, Josh here....
About this time every year spring makes an appearance and Mike heads to Nashville to visit the craziness of GMA week. I'm excited for him, all of the buzz bands, new product and info he shares upon his return. There are the stories of the favorite artists, new artists, the meaning behind the music and the awesome shows. So here I wait anticipating his return. I have a bunch of questions to ask. Anyway Mike, don't forget to go to a night concert, have some fun and I can't wait to hear from you.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Sunday Morning Worship
Sunday Morning Worship
Gospel Music Week: Entry Two (Sunday 4/19 10-11:30am)
Sunday Morning Worship should be a highlight of your week, no matter where you are. When you're in Nashville and Gospel Music Week, it gets a little easier!
Matt Redman, together with his band and angelic background vocalist Christy Nockels (formerly of Watermark, and with her own solo debut in the works for June 2nd), did a heart-stirring job leading us in worship. Among the songs we were led in were "Everlasting God", "Never Let Go" and a brand-new song, "Through It All", which I suspect will appear on either the next Passion album, the next Redman CD or both.
The song, which praises the "God of unbroken promises", was a perfect set-up for speaker Louie Giglio, who spoke from Psalm 40. He incorporated some of the content from Ashley's story (from his powerful DVD "Fruitcake & Ice Cream"- if you haven't seen it, you definitely owe it to yourself to), which while repeat content for some of us, never ever gets old. He reminded us from Psalm 40 that God is steadfastly committed to two things: (1) our healing (spiritually and sometimes physically) and (2) His own glory. He rightly accused us all of sometimes embracing a "me-gospel" by stopping at verses 1 & 2- I hurt, I cried, God heard and God rescued. All of that is true, but the story doesn't end there! Verse 3 continues that the new song we as believers proclaim post-rescue will cause many (not all and not none) to trust and to believe. That's when God's glory is extended, and He is recognized afresh as worthy and faithful. Louie said it better, but that's why he's preaching and I'm writing a blog! As Redman's lyrics stated, "Through it all, You are faithful. Through it all, You are strong. When we walk through the shadows, You shine on." Praise God for His graciousness to us all, and that in our darkest times, we become trophies of His illuminating goodness. -Mike
Gospel Music Week: Entry Two (Sunday 4/19 10-11:30am)
Sunday Morning Worship should be a highlight of your week, no matter where you are. When you're in Nashville and Gospel Music Week, it gets a little easier!
Matt Redman, together with his band and angelic background vocalist Christy Nockels (formerly of Watermark, and with her own solo debut in the works for June 2nd), did a heart-stirring job leading us in worship. Among the songs we were led in were "Everlasting God", "Never Let Go" and a brand-new song, "Through It All", which I suspect will appear on either the next Passion album, the next Redman CD or both.
The song, which praises the "God of unbroken promises", was a perfect set-up for speaker Louie Giglio, who spoke from Psalm 40. He incorporated some of the content from Ashley's story (from his powerful DVD "Fruitcake & Ice Cream"- if you haven't seen it, you definitely owe it to yourself to), which while repeat content for some of us, never ever gets old. He reminded us from Psalm 40 that God is steadfastly committed to two things: (1) our healing (spiritually and sometimes physically) and (2) His own glory. He rightly accused us all of sometimes embracing a "me-gospel" by stopping at verses 1 & 2- I hurt, I cried, God heard and God rescued. All of that is true, but the story doesn't end there! Verse 3 continues that the new song we as believers proclaim post-rescue will cause many (not all and not none) to trust and to believe. That's when God's glory is extended, and He is recognized afresh as worthy and faithful. Louie said it better, but that's why he's preaching and I'm writing a blog! As Redman's lyrics stated, "Through it all, You are faithful. Through it all, You are strong. When we walk through the shadows, You shine on." Praise God for His graciousness to us all, and that in our darkest times, we become trophies of His illuminating goodness. -Mike
Tell & Show Indie Artist Showcase
Tell & Show Indie Artist Showcase
Gospel Music Week: Entry One (Sat 4/18 7-9:30pm)
Mike here. I've arrived safely in Nashville. Yesterday (Saturday) was warm and sunny; this morning (Sunday) a light rain is falling from the gray sky- a perfect balm for homesickness for the near-perpetual drear of upstate New York.
Last night, I was privileged to attend the Indie Artist Showcase in the Renaissance Ballroom. It's an event that I've enjoyed to varying degrees for a number of years. It's a nice low-key kick-off to a high-intensity week, and I've gotten introduced to a number of great indie artists. This year, the format was switched up a bit. While it's a first event for retailers like me, it's a culmination of a full-day seminar for artists who attend the Indie Impact track. Whereas previous years have featured one song each from 20-25 randomly drawn indies with audience members providing written feedback, this year took an American Idol-esque turn, with performance coach Tom Jackson (http://www.tomjacksonproductions.com/), associate Elliot Cunningham and artist Mary Kathryn serving as judges. Tom started the evening of with an informative pep talk on some of the overlooked keys to artist success, which incidently I found to have some great secondary applications to the retail world as well.
Next, Midas band Rush of Fools took the stage for a three-song set of "Can't Get Away", "There is Nothing" and their latest radio single, "Lose It All" First of all, these guys are amazing! I've seen them at previous GMA's, but they have grown so much musically and in terms of their stage presence. With two albums to their credit and having just completed their first headline tour earlier this month with Jimmy Needham, Sarah Reeves and Joy Lippard, I am most impressed with their humble hearts and God-centric lyrical content. Their tour, Freedom Begins Here, was a bold promotion, not merely of a song or an album, but of a dynamic mininstry that helps break the chains of pornography & sexual addiction. For more information, visit http://www.freedombeginshere.org/
The Rush of Fools fellas- Jacob, Jamie, J.D., Kevin & Wes- had the unenviable task of being Tom's guinea pigs in front of an audience of industry peers. Tom did a beautiful job wielding the scalpel, but its nevertheless akin to a frog voluntarily stretching out on the disection block in a high school Biology class. It was a act of boldness that would make Braveheart himself run for the hills, but Wes & company tackled it all with poise and unflinching vulnerablility. The result was an impressive variation on "There is Nothing" that connected powerfully with the audience.
Next came an abreviated session with five of the attending indie artists being given an opportunity to perform a single song and to receive feedback from Tom, Elliot and Mary Kathryn. I was profoundly impressed with how each struck the delicate balance of insight, edification and exhortation, affirming the artists legitimately and providing elements they could take away and work on. While the session provided fewer performance spots than previous years, it provided valuable feedback that every artist in attendance could gleen from. The artists ran the gambit from Australian evangelist Jim Peters to high-energy urban worshipper Terry Lysander to celtic-tinged mom of four Courtney Smith, all of whom were excellent. Personal highlights were two: first, Bernadette Cleare, whose clean, passionate vocals and inspo-gospel stylings breathed annointed life into her worshipful lyrics. Bernadette has a CD available on CDBaby.com- if you're a CeCe Winans fan, I'd recommend that you give her a listen.
The other artist was Shawn Starbuck (no relation to the java giant, folks!), whose song "Not Ashamed" was a captivating God-moment kind of song. Shawn is a self-affacing worship pastor who we all found ourselves rooting for and relating to. This was one of those hidden gem performances that are nearly impossible to wrap words around- God has big things in store for Shawn, and it's awesome to know that I was in the room when a defining moment occured.
That's enough for now. More later! -Mike
Gospel Music Week: Entry One (Sat 4/18 7-9:30pm)
Mike here. I've arrived safely in Nashville. Yesterday (Saturday) was warm and sunny; this morning (Sunday) a light rain is falling from the gray sky- a perfect balm for homesickness for the near-perpetual drear of upstate New York.
Last night, I was privileged to attend the Indie Artist Showcase in the Renaissance Ballroom. It's an event that I've enjoyed to varying degrees for a number of years. It's a nice low-key kick-off to a high-intensity week, and I've gotten introduced to a number of great indie artists. This year, the format was switched up a bit. While it's a first event for retailers like me, it's a culmination of a full-day seminar for artists who attend the Indie Impact track. Whereas previous years have featured one song each from 20-25 randomly drawn indies with audience members providing written feedback, this year took an American Idol-esque turn, with performance coach Tom Jackson (http://www.tomjacksonproductions.com/), associate Elliot Cunningham and artist Mary Kathryn serving as judges. Tom started the evening of with an informative pep talk on some of the overlooked keys to artist success, which incidently I found to have some great secondary applications to the retail world as well.
Next, Midas band Rush of Fools took the stage for a three-song set of "Can't Get Away", "There is Nothing" and their latest radio single, "Lose It All" First of all, these guys are amazing! I've seen them at previous GMA's, but they have grown so much musically and in terms of their stage presence. With two albums to their credit and having just completed their first headline tour earlier this month with Jimmy Needham, Sarah Reeves and Joy Lippard, I am most impressed with their humble hearts and God-centric lyrical content. Their tour, Freedom Begins Here, was a bold promotion, not merely of a song or an album, but of a dynamic mininstry that helps break the chains of pornography & sexual addiction. For more information, visit http://www.freedombeginshere.org/
The Rush of Fools fellas- Jacob, Jamie, J.D., Kevin & Wes- had the unenviable task of being Tom's guinea pigs in front of an audience of industry peers. Tom did a beautiful job wielding the scalpel, but its nevertheless akin to a frog voluntarily stretching out on the disection block in a high school Biology class. It was a act of boldness that would make Braveheart himself run for the hills, but Wes & company tackled it all with poise and unflinching vulnerablility. The result was an impressive variation on "There is Nothing" that connected powerfully with the audience.
Next came an abreviated session with five of the attending indie artists being given an opportunity to perform a single song and to receive feedback from Tom, Elliot and Mary Kathryn. I was profoundly impressed with how each struck the delicate balance of insight, edification and exhortation, affirming the artists legitimately and providing elements they could take away and work on. While the session provided fewer performance spots than previous years, it provided valuable feedback that every artist in attendance could gleen from. The artists ran the gambit from Australian evangelist Jim Peters to high-energy urban worshipper Terry Lysander to celtic-tinged mom of four Courtney Smith, all of whom were excellent. Personal highlights were two: first, Bernadette Cleare, whose clean, passionate vocals and inspo-gospel stylings breathed annointed life into her worshipful lyrics. Bernadette has a CD available on CDBaby.com- if you're a CeCe Winans fan, I'd recommend that you give her a listen.
The other artist was Shawn Starbuck (no relation to the java giant, folks!), whose song "Not Ashamed" was a captivating God-moment kind of song. Shawn is a self-affacing worship pastor who we all found ourselves rooting for and relating to. This was one of those hidden gem performances that are nearly impossible to wrap words around- God has big things in store for Shawn, and it's awesome to know that I was in the room when a defining moment occured.
That's enough for now. More later! -Mike
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Nashville, here I come!
Mike here. In less than 48 hours, I'll be on my way to Nashville for Gospel Music Week 2009. This will be my 7th year attending, and it's always a fun, informative, exhausting and stimulating journey. I'm new to the entire blogging scene, but am going to make a diligent effort to share some of what I'll be experiencing. Pictures won't get added until I return home, as I'm fairly tech-incompetent, and will need additional assistance to get everything working smoothly. In the meantime, I'll try to give a solid report on the sights, sounds, news and conversations of GMA. God Bless! -Mike
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Current Staff Picks (April 2009):
Mike's Top Pick: Chris Taylor- "Take Me Anywhere"
Taylor's poetic lyrics are wrapped up in lush progressive pop melodies. Likely one of the best new artists of 2008 that you haven't heard yet!
Mike is also enjoying the music of Bebo Norman, Mike Farris, Molly Jensen, Mandisa, Jason Allen Rich, Telecast, Tenth Avenue North, Laura Story and John Waller.
Ellen's Top Pick: Jeremy Riddle- "The Now & The Not Yet"
Expanding the boundaries of praise & worship, this project is not a traditional hymns-and-choruses collection, but beautiful, Christ-focused songs in a modern alternative sound.
Ellen is also enjoying Bluetree, Capital Lights, Danyew, Mike Farris and Brooke Fraser.
Josh's Top Pick: And Then There Were None- "Who Speaks For The Planet?"
Fusing together the best of dance, electronica, pop and rock genres.
Josh is also enjoying Ascendicate, Jars of Clay, Red, Seventh Day Slumber and Thousand Foot Krutch.
Abby's Top Pick: Bluetree's "God Of This City"
contemporary/rock sound with worshipful lyrics. Recommended for fans of Delirious and Crowder.
Abby also enjoys JJ Heller, Kari Jobe, Newsboys, Jeremy Riddle and Red.
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