Tuesday, January 31, 2012

NEW RELEASE TUESDAY

Matins Vespers
by Parachute Band | Genre: Praise & Worship

Angel Band: The Hymn Sessions
by Andrew Greer | Genre: Americana/Folk

The Kingdom
by Starfield | Genre: Pop/Rock

God, Love & Romance - 2 Discs
by Fred Hammond | Genre: Gospel

King Kulture
by Rapzilla.com | Genre: Rap

WANT MORE? CLICK HERE

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Anadara

Music was Anadara's life from an early age.  At 8 she caught the musical theater bug.  It was while she was in college at Syracuse University that she picked up the guitar and discovered it was songwriting that fulfilled the purpose in her life.  She used her new-found passion to nurse her homesickness.  Anadara was born and raised in Carlsbad, CA - so going to college in New York was culture shock.

After school, Anadara moved to the Big Apple where she played music, worked side jobs and was the quintessential starving artist.  She was in NYC on September 11, 2001 and remembers the fear and patriotism that swept her community in the years that followed.  Shortly after, Anadara met and married her husband Rocky and they moved to Nashville to pursue their musical dream.

This past year has been a year of adaptation as Anadara and husband Rocky welcomed a son into their family, Brooks Gerald Arnold!  He was born February 2nd 2010 - so they are probably busy planning a 1 year old's birthday party right now!

Album: A Little Closer

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Anadara leading worship.



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q: Who were Noah's three sons?

A: Shem, Ham & Japheth (Genesis 6:10)

Way to go Alison in Cambridge!

Monday, January 30, 2012

A new week - a new beginning!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Phil Wickham

Phil Wickham is originally from and now serves at Horizon Christian Fellowship in San Diego, CA with his wife Mallory. Phil was raised in a Christian home, the second of three children (brother Evan, sister Jillian), and after feeling the need to "make his faith his own" he began leading worship for his youth group at 12 years old.

Phil and his wife Mallory are adjusting to being new parents.  Their daughter Penelope was born this past Fall.  They live and lead worship at their local church just outside of San Diego, CA. 

Fun Fact: Wickham's father is currently a worship leader and both of his parents were at one time members of Jesus movement band Parable.

A couple of years ago Phil Wickham recorded a live worship album called Singalong - which he then gave away for free through his website.  This March, Phil will record Singalong 2 in Costa Mesa, CA and he is inviting everyone out to the concert!



Album: Response

Twitter: @philwickham

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Divine Romance (live)

Friday, January 27, 2012

Rev your weekend engines!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Aaron Shust

Aaron Shust is first and foremost a worship leader. In fact, he wrote his first hit songs for his church. My Savior, My God was destined to be more than just a local favorite on Sundays. That song topped six different charts at once on its way to becoming the most played song of 2006 on Christian radio!

My Savior, My God earned Aaron Shust a trio of Dove Awards for “Song of the Year,” “Songwriter of the Year,” and “New Artist of the Year.” In no time, the Georgia-based songwriter was sharing the stage with the likes of superstars MercyMe, Bebo Norman, Casting Crowns, Michael W. Smith, Jeremy Camp, Brandon Heath, and TobyMac, in between his own headline stints!

After living in Atlanta for ten years, in early 2010 he and his wife made the decision to pull up stakes and and move their young family back to Aaron’s Pennsylvania hometown. In less than a year, he was invited to take on the role of worship leader in the church he had grown up in.

“It’s a little church,” says Aaron. “No fancy lights, doesn’t have a great sound system. But it’s a part of the fabric of my life and my family’s life. My grandmother went to that church. My family has generations of roots there. It’s where I first heard the gospel and was baptized. I feel like this is my home, and these are my people."

The support of their local church became critical to Aaron and his wife as they walked through their son’s medical issues. Diagnosed with Eosinophilic Esophagitis, a rare and extremely painful condition, two-year-old Nicky was unable to take in any nutrition.  After many failed treatments, Nicky responded to some medication.  It was a mixed blessing because the treatment would require him to be on strong medications and steroids for all of his life.  Then came a miracle.  Their son’s tests came back normal. It was as if he’d never even had the condition. What was considered to be a permanent disease seemed to have disappeared. The doctor could offer no explanation as to why.

Album: This Is What We Believe

Twitter: @aaoronshust

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: My Hope Is In You

Thursday, January 26, 2012

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Todd Agnew

The modern world says that to have a need is a bad thing, but Todd Agnew has discovered that we are all built with needs.  Needs that can only be fulfilled by our creator.  Many of his worship songs are about this void that we try to fill - only to discover there is a perfect fit - Jesus Christ.

Todd's life changes dramatically in 2010 when he got married and became a step-dad to two children! To go from a single, touring worship leader/speaker to a married dad with a mortgage has had a humbling impact in his life - and left his heart wide open for a sense of grace that he had never imagined.

“I’ve always been kind of the hammer – walk in, speak the truth, blow up the town, walk off and let all the pastors apply that truth or pick up the pieces. Now I’m having very similar things in my marriage and in my life, where I’m definitely someone who sees the truth that needs to be spoken, but I’m watching my wife who always see the love that needs to be shared.”

In his upcoming album, Todd expounds on his new found loves - his family and how it mirrors God's love for us.

Album: How To Be Loved (out March 6, 2012)

Twitter: @AgnewsDei

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: In The Middle of Me (fan video)



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q: What son of Adam and Eve was regarded as a replacement for Abel?

A: Seth (Genesis 4:25)

Congratulations to Toni of Seaford, DE!

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

The week is half-way over! 
You can do it!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Holly Starr

Raised on a farm in the small town of Quincy, Washington, Holly Starr is not afraid of hard work. And that's good, because as an up-and-coming Christian artist she's got a hard path ahead of her! Her second full-length record, Tapestry was produced by Dove award winner Rusty Varenkamp (Tenth Avenue North, Meredith Andrews). She debuted in 2008 and has been putting thousands of miles on various vans, touring the United States and abroad.

Holly Starr is also focused on the global Church. She's worked with Compassion International ever since taking a missions trip to El Salvador.

During a trip to Israel, Holly discovered that she had Jewish ancestors. While leading worship in Israel, Holly met members of her grandmother’s family, whom she had never met and her grandmother hadn’t seen in over 60 years. She was able to reconnect the family members with her grandmother via Skype for a surprise reunion.

She’s often reminded of the artists who have profoundly influenced her, a list including everyone from Superchick and Skillet to Nicole C. Mullen, Chris Tomlin and Mary Mary. She aspires to be that for other girls. As for her greatest influence, Starr says her older brother has had the most impact on her life. His shining example has been a steadfast beacon for Starr’s faith as she’s pursued her musical calling.

Album: Tapestry

Twitter: @hollystarrmusic

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: I Love You Anyway (ILYA)



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q: What was Cain's occupation (before God cursed him)?

A:He was a farmer. (Genesis 4:2)

Score for Darlene in Lexington Park, MD!

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

NEW RELEASE TUESDAY

Where I Find You
by Kari Jobe | Genre: Praise & Worship

Playlist
by Phil Joel | Genre: Pop/Rock

The Loft Sessions CD/DVD
by Bethel Live | Genre: Praise & Worship

The Beautiful Life EP
by Tidewater | Genre: Pop/Rock

Spirit Break Out
by Worship Central | Genre: Praise & Worship

The Essential Kirk Franklin
by Kirk Franklin | Genre: Gospel

Gaither Homecoming Celebration!
by Gaither Vocal Band | Genre: Gospel

WOW Gospel 2012
by Various Artists - "WOW" Series | Genre: Gospel

Worship
by Myron Butler | Genre: Gospel

Outta Space Love (Bigger Love Edition)
by Group 1 Crew | Genre: Urban

Real Life
by Scotty G | Genre: Rap

Pioneer
by Pioneer | Genre: Rock

Feel The Power
by Blessed by A Broken Heart | Genre: Hard Rock

WANT MORE? CLICK HERE

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Daniel Doss (band)

The Daniel Doss band is just getting started.  Already they have had several radio hits and just released their sophomore album through Mission House Music in Nashville. 

Their motto: Worship leader and Christ-follower first. Chart-topping Christian recording artists second. The Daniel Doss Band seeks to engage people at the spiritual level, and evoke God-sized encounters through worship.

Kind Words: Mark Hall of Casting Crowns says, “I have spent a lot of time with these guys and they are the real deal. Daniel’s writing is sincere, honest, and speaks clearly about God’s love and hope in Christ. Their music will impact anyone who hears it.”

Church: Currently Daniel and family is helping plant a church in Valparaiso, IN.  Daniel is leading worship and his childhood friend Ben Lamb is pastoring.

The Band:
Daniel Doss - Vocals, Guitar, Piano
Kenny Davis- Drums
Will McKelvey - Electric Guitar
Bryan Wolski - BGV, Bass

Album: Beyond My Reach

Twitter: @danieldossmusic

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: The Story Behind Stained Glass Windows



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q: What was Abel's occupation?

A: He was a shepherd. (Genesis 4:2)

Score for Stan in Salisbury!

Monday, January 23, 2012

It's a new week!  Are you ready for the adventure?

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Ginny Owens

Ginny Owens is a three-time Dove Award winner, including the Gospel Music Association’s 2000 New Artist of the Year recipient, and multiple ASCAP Award winner. She has sold nearly one million albums and has topped the charts with several hit songs including If you Want Me To and I Wanna Be Moved. Her music has been featured on television shows and her concerts have impacted the lives of tens of thousands.

And Ginny Owens is blind. That has never stopped her from chasing musical perfection, though. When she sits behind a piano, music flows from her soul and the lyrics ring of Truth. Sometimes that Truth is learned through heartache - sometimes through Joy. She's just like everybody else, except she takes our collective life experiences and turns them into art.

Over the past five years Ginny moved to New York City, taught worship seminars, moved to Mississippi to help her mother through cancer treatment and eventually moved back to Nashville to put to song her experiences.  Many of the experiences were heartbreaking - so expect some intense emotions on her new self produced album.

Album: Get In, I'm Driving

Twitter: @GinnyOwens

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: The Story of Get In, I'm Driving



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:

A:

Friday, January 20, 2012

Fridays are great, right?
 
ARTIST OF THE DAY
Royal Tailor

Fusing pop, rock, R&B, hip hop and worship into a distinctive musical blend, Tauren, Blake, Jarrod and D.J. deliver the Gospel in a high-energy style that drives audiences to dance, pray, shout and sing along.  After meeting in Bible college and forming the band, they spent a year working full time at their church in Granite City, IL, mentoring and teaching the youth to sing, play and take over worship services.  They refused to leave the church to tour until the worship team was prepared mentally, emotionally, spiritually and musically to take their place.

When Royal Tailor hit the road and began performing 300+ shows in less than two years, the band left behind an on-fire group of young worshippers ready to share their gifts with the church.  During that process of equipping the youth, the members of Royal Tailor also learned a lot about themselves. The guys found their hearts were broken for the younger generation and seek to use music to bring healing and hope to kids everywhere.

"The overarching message is a call to action," says Tauren. "A lot of our songs have to do with being Christ in the world.  We want to create a culture where students are doing the ministry. They are creating the ideas. They are dreaming the dream,  and then they are actually going out there and doing those things."

The Hook Up: Leeland and Jack Mooring (of the band Leeland) became fans of Royal Tailor, had them open for one of their tours and pushed their label to sign the young band.

Line-Up:

Tauren Wells - Lead Vocals
DJ Cox - Guitar
Blake Hubbard - Bass
Jarrod Ingram - Drums

Style: Musically Royal Tailor sounds like a cross between Bruno Mars & Maroon 5

Album: Black & White

Twitter: @RoyalTailor

Tour: CLICK HERE (Royal Tailor will be in Virginia Beach & Baltimore this Spring!)

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Hold Me Together



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q: Who was given Pharaoh's second chariot as a job perk?

A: Joseph (Genesis 41:41,43)

Congratulations to Nancy in Selbyville, DE!

Thursday, January 19, 2012

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Selah

Eleven years, seven albums, five Dove Awards - by the numbers, Selah has a pretty impressive resume. Their current line-up is Allan Hall, Amy Perry, and Todd Smith.  The group, like most people, has weathered many storms. From the death of children, through illnesses and line-up changes, the group has stayed faithful to what God has called them to do - to sing, to worship, and to tell people about Jesus Christ!

From their inception, Selah has always been synonymous with hymns. In fact, the  trio’s 1999 debut, Be Still My Soul, helped initiate a hymn revival in Christian music that is still thriving today. 

The Present: Birthed from seasons of personal hardship, Selah’s latest is a celebration of the hope Todd Smith, Allan Hall and Amy Perry have discovered through surrender to God, and a testimony to the group’s collective desire to share these stories of hope with broken people through music.  With Hope of the Broken World, Selah recognizes their opportunity to relate with and help listeners heal through songs that poignantly contrast worldly hurt with spiritual hope.

The Past: Nicole Sponberg is Todd Smith's sister and was a founding member of the group.

Fun: Last Fall Selah participated in an auction to benefit Porter's Call (a counseling ministry in Nashville).  The winner got a personal Selah concert via Skype.

Album: Hope of the Broken World

Twitter: @SelahOnline

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Hope of the Broken World



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q: What foreign official was in his chariot (trying to read Isaiah) when Philip came to him?

A: an Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:27-28)

Score for Grace in Mardella Springs, MD!

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Sanctus Real

Sanctus Real formed in Toledo, Ohio, in 1996, when founding members Matt and Chris were just in the 10th grade. Since 2002, they have released five albums through the Sparrow record label - garnered multiple #1 hits, two GRAMMY nomination and landed multiple Dove award wins and even more nominations to boot.

While band is passionate about the music they make - its the message that is their core.  Their focus is always first and foremost the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  They report that the accolades and sales are great - but when someone comes to a relationship with Jesus through their music - that's what it is all about.

Album: Pieces of a Real Heart

Twitter: @SanctusReal

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Forgiven



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q: What wise king of Israel had 1400 chariots and 12,000 horses?

A: Solomon (1 Kings 10:26)

Congratulations to Shantel in Exmore, VA!

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

NEW RELEASE TUESDAY

Decades of Worship
by Michael W. Smith | Genre: Praise & Worship

If It Leads Me Back
by Lindsay McCaul | Genre: Adult Contemporary

Reason To Sing EP No. 2
by All Sons And Daughters | Genre: Praise & Worship

Forever Reign
by One Sonic Society | Genre: Praise & Worship

The Acoustic Sessions
by Anthem Lights | Genre: Pop/Rock

ON DVD/BLU-RAY

Courageous DVD/Blu-Ray
by Various Artists | Genre: Video/DVD

WANT MORE? CLICK HERE

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Patrick Ryan Clark

Patrick Ryan Clark grew up in the Oklahoma Bible belt.  Church was a ritual and not spiritual for him.  Life was about having fun.  He had plenty of talents (including ruling his school's basketball court) and was a part of the in-crowd.  One night at a party, he stumbled across a friends CD collection.  One of the CD's was called "Jesus Freak."  Patrick swiped the dcTalk album and listened to it while driving home.

He says that when the song "What If I Stumble" came on, it reduced him to tears.  The realization that God really loves us just as we are, was ultimately the real game-changer.  Patrick pulled the car over and in tears prayed to accept Christ into his heart as his Savior and Lord.  That decision eventually paved the way for the life he never expected. A week later, Patrick gave up basketball and also happened to pick up his first guitar. At first strum, he was addicted.

Drawing from his life experiences and the personal stories of the people he leads in worship each week at Watermark Community Church in Dallas, the songs on his debut album Where Would I Be are rife with encouragement, hope and a grace-centered perspective.

Ministry: Patrick the worship leader at Watermark Community Church and he also leads Celebrate Recovery at his church - helping people find freedom from their hurts, habits and hang-ups.

Album: Where Would I Be

Twitter: @prcmusic

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: You Shine



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q: What people (often at war with Israel) sent back the captures Ark of the Covenant on a cart pulled by a cow?

A: the Philistines (1 Samuel 6:7-14)

Score for Mike in Westover, MD!

Monday, January 16, 2012

Ok ... so still no snow this Winter.
I'm beginning to get impatient...

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Jaci Velasquez

Jaci Velasquez has been breaking down walls and stereotypes for Christian music since the beginning of her career (and she was only a teenager!). Velasquez, a Houston, Texas native, began traveling and singing with her family when she was 9 years old. At the age of 14, she signed to Myrrh Records. Her first album “Heavenly Place” shot up the charts and garnered Jaci her first Platinum record, earning her the title of “the fastest selling solo debut artist in the history of Christian music.”

The Latin music industry quickly took notice and Sony Discos signed her to a Latin record deal. Jaci began recording both English and Spanish albums simultaneously. “Love Out Loud” was released in 2008 as Jaci’s 13th record and debut release on her self-owned Apostrophe Records.

As if being a multi-lingual music super star weren't enough, Jaci has also done some acting in both Christian and foreign language films, modeling, and been a spokeswoman. Plus she and her husband have two children under the age of 5. Seriously, is there anything she can't do?!

Sneak Peak: CLICK HERE to listen to a special preview of the new album!

Album: Diamond (Due out Feb. 7) Pre-Order HERE

Twitter: @jacivelasquez

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Give Them Jesus (Official Lyrics Vidoe)

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q: What was given as a sign that God would not flood the earth again?

A: a rainbow (Genesis 9:13-17)

Way to go Deborah of Northern Virginia!

Thursday, January 12, 2012

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Sixteen Cities

Sixteen Cities is a Christian pop rock four-piece band from Portland, Oregon.  The band started out as a public school worship and prayer ministry in 2002.  They started meeting at their school each week, in an attempt to reach their friends for Christ. It wasn't long before the band knew they were called to use music as a way to reach their generation. After graduating high school, they decided to go into the music industry full-time, embarking on an indie artist career in the northwest.  In 2009 Sixteen Cities signed with Centricity Music and in 2010 they released their first major release.

Their songs were featured on TV shows like "One Tree Hill" and have been played in the retail store Hollister. A busy tour schedule has taken Sixteen Cities all over the world, playing at festivals, conferences, churches, schools and camps with artists such as Casting Crowns, Kutless, Building 429 and Sanctus Real.  This past fall, Sixteen Cities released a worship EP called Your Love Is. 

Line-Up: Josiah Warneking, Josh Miller, Joel Warneking, and Chad McCutchen

Albums: Sixteen Cities & Your Love Is

Twitter: @sixteencities

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Love Is Making A Way



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:

A:

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

It's the middle of the second week of January.
Today I weighed for the first time in 2012.
It was not pretty.  But I'm motivated.
How are your goals going?  How do you stay motivated?

ARTIST OF THE DAY
All Sons & Daughters

The worship duo of David Leonard and Leslie Jordan was birthed in 2010 from Journey Church located in the Nashville suburb of Franklin, Tennessee.  Jordan and Leonard met at Journey in the summer of 2009 where they began writing worship songs for their church family. Their evolution into a duo began when they started leading those songs together on Sunday mornings. Both currently serve on staff at Journey as Worship Designers in the Creative Arts Ministry.

Leslie Jordan has been leading worship since age 14, both in her own church and for churches and conferences across the United States.  David Leonard grew up in Southeast Arkansas and attended college at John Brown University.  While attending the university, Leonard began the Word Records band Jackson Waters.  After disbanding in 2008, Leonard began touring with NEEDTOBREATHE, and completed his time with them in May 2010.

The album Reason to Sing was produced by Paul Mabury (Hillsong, Brandon Heath, One Sonic Society) and all of the songs are written by Leonard and Jordan.  Each song reflects the environment of their church and the message of God’s restorative love that All Sons & Daughters seeks to share with its community.

In addition to leading worship at their church and events around the country, Leonard and Jordan have lent their voices to The Know Hope Collective, the ground breaking initiative that combines worship music with stories of hope and inspiration created by Audio Adrenaline alums Mark Stuart and Will McGinniss.

Album: Reason to Sing EP no. 2 (due out January 17th)

Twitter: @allsanddmusic

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Prone to Wander



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q: What day are we to remember and keep holy?

A: the Sabbath

Congratulations, Cindy in Pittsville, MD!

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

NEW RELEASE TUESDAY

Give Us Rest or (A Requiem Mass in C [The Happiest of All Keys])
by David Crowder*Band | Genre: Praise & Worship
* (Josh: I bought this early this morning and haven't been able to turn it off.  In. Cred. Ible.)

Homemade Worship By Handmade People
by Rend Collective Experiment | Genre: Praise & Worship

Go
by Rachel Chan | Genre: Pop/Rock
* Francis Chan's daughter

I Love Your Presence - Live From Phoenix
by Vineyard Music | Genre: Praise & Worship

Little Praise Party: Happy Day Everyday
by Yancy | Genre: Children's

WANT MORE? CLICK HERE

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Jaime Jamgochian

Originally from Boston, MA - Jaime relocated to Seattle, WA after college and spent years serving at The City Church.  More recently she moved to Nashville to focus on her music career.

Jaime’s music and bubbly personality have touched thousands of young women as she’s appeared on Point of Grace’s Girls of Grace conferences. In addition, Jaime has stepped forward and launched her own “Modest is Hottest” conferences for young girls. Last summer, she also went to Peru with 800 girls on a mission trip sponsored by Brio magazine.


Since Jaime has signed with Centricity Records, she’s toured relentlessly over the past few years and loves having an opportunity to reach people, especially young girls. Having come to Christ during her college years, Jaime admits she made her share of mistakes before becoming a believer, and those moments have made her better equipped to minister to young girls struggling through some of the same issues.

In Studio: Jaime's latest album was produced by Nathan Nockels (of Watermark).  When struggling for authenticity during the awkward recording of the vocals for the album, Nathan challenged Jaime to forget anyone else is around and spend time worshiping God.  That advice is what led to the emotional, powerful and undoubtedly worshipful nature of the new album.

Fact: Jaime grew up with a severe learning disability.  She credits her struggles in learning to her earnestness in encouraging young women to give everything to their Savior.

Awkward: Despite living in the South - she does not like sweet tea or biscuits & gravy.  Sorry, Jaime - that's a deal breaker.

Ministry: Modest is Hottest

Album: Above The Noise

Twitter: @jaimejamgochian

Tour: CLICK HERE
(This weekend Jaime is leading worship on a cruise for girls' ministries - fun!)

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Hear My Worship (live at church)



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q: What ritual is a reminder of Christ's body and blood?

A: The Lord's Supper or Communion (Luke 22:19)

Score for Linda in Salisbury!

Monday, January 9, 2012

It's the second week of 2012.  Are you doing well on your Resolutions?
So far so good with me...

POLITICS

It's everywhere.  Polls, debates, talk shows.  It's overwhelming. 
I don't know who to believe or even if anyone can be believed!  I did stumble across this web-tool on USA Today's website, that lets you answer questions about your political thoughts and beliefs and it rates the pundits based on who best represents you.
It's pretty cool.  CHECK IT OUT for yourself if you have the time.

ARTIST OF THE DAY
MIKESCHAIR

MIKESCHAIR was born out of a dorm room at Nashville's Belmont University. Music could always be heard coming out of Mike Grayson's dorm room, attracting other musicians to volunteer in his jam sessions. Before long, a band had formed!

Though they love music, each member of MIKESCHAIR admits it’s about so much more. “We all really have this desire to be involved in ministry,” Hale says. “We are obviously all really passionate about music, but we always want it to be about something more. We saw that we all had the same heart for this and then God just kept opening doors.”

MIKESCHAIR has experienced a great deal since the release of their debut album. Not only have they toured extensively, they’ve also maintained their heart for missions to work and be involved with the international relief agencies such as Food for the Hungry and Buckner International; organizations that help at risk orphans. The band members have traveled abroad to Haiti with Food for the Hungry and to South & Central America with Buckner International.

Some bands have to tour a long time to get their big break - but just a few weeks into the band's inception, the guys won Belmont University's Music Showcase competition, got signed to CURB Records, played a ton of shows and got themselves nominated at the Dove Awards for Song of The Year (For Let The Waters Rise).

The Name: How did the name "MIKESCHAIR" come about? Well, the rest of the guys lived on a different floor of the dorm - but Mike was the epicenter of the band - so the guys bought Mike a chair to make him feel more at home hanging out of their floor of the dorm. Since college boys don't like sharing, Mike put a sign on the chair reading, "Mike's chair."

Album: A Beautiful Life

Twitter: @MIKESCHAIR

Tour: CLICK HERE  (Currently on tour with Jars of Clay & Jonny Diaz)

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Let The Waters Rise (Live @ The Dove Awards)



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:hat future liberator was found floating in a basket in the river?

A: Moses (Exodus 2:3-5)

Way to go Nate from Eden, MD!


INSANE

This kid uses a Nerf gun to pull his loose tooth.  Totally.  Awesome.
(It's not graphic - just awesome)

Friday, January 6, 2012

ARTIST OF THE DAY
No Other Name

Comprising brother-sister duo, Sam and Laura Allen, along with their friend Chad Smith, the group met at a Nashville music conference. All three admit to knowing early on they shared a musical chemistry.  During an impromptu singalong at the Ryman Auditorium, the trio realized their ability to harmonize perfectly was something God ordained.

Shortly after forming their singing group, No Other Name caught the attention of legendary record executive Mike Curb who soon tapped them to become part of the Curb Records roster that includes Natalie Grant, Selah, Plumb and other Christian music notables.

Acts 4:12 is a favorite verse of the group; “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." The scripture encapsulates the essence of the gospel and defines the mission statement for No Other Name, a trio of talented young vocalists, dedicated to spreading the good news—and spreading it everywhere.

Missions: Shooting music videos for “Lead You to the Cross” in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and “Let It Start With Me” in Bangkok, Thailand also served to underscore the group’s aim to spread the gospel worldwide. No Other Name is a strong proponent of international missions and has partnered with the International Mission Board to help recruit missionaries while joining the organization on recent trips to Nicaragua as well as Brazil.

CLICK HERE to learn how you can partner with No Other Name to reach the world for Christ!

Album: The Other Side

Twitter: @noothername

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Let It Start With Me



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q: How were the shepherds to recognize the baby Jesus?

A: They were to find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger... (Luke 2)

Score for Karen in Salisbury!

Thursday, January 5, 2012

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Atmospheres

Atmospheres is the worship ministry at C3 Church Asheville, NC. The collective of musicians and singers based in C3 Church Asheville have crafted a powerful sound, with unexpected quality out of a church plant in the not so urban area of the Smokey Mountains.

C3 challenges any music ministry to add their songs to their worship line-up, but with the warning "you'll need a strong electric guitarist" because "there ain't much acoustic-worship leading here."

Atmospheres (the name taken by C3 Asheville's music ministry) has unassumingly obliterated every stereotype conjured by descriptives like 'small church', 'first album', and 'worship music' with songs that are epic and sweeping declarations of faith and vision. 

The group is fronted by Steve Deal, a native of Australia who served at a C3 church in Lawrenceville, GA before heading to Appalachia.  Another worship leader, Stephen von Heyking, relocated from Calgary, Alberta, Canada to join Steve Deal with the intent of building upon an already urgent and unconventional musical culture in the North Carolina Mountains.

Album: Atmospheres

Twitter: @c3asheville

Want More? CLICK HERE 

Video: Grace Holds On



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q: How many baskets full of food were collected after the feeding of the 5,000?

A: 12 (Matthew 14:20)

Way to go Donna!

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Christy Nockels

Christy Nockels was born in Ft. Worth, TX as a seminary baby. She grew up in Oklahoma as the daughter of a pastor and a piano teacher, which infused her heart early with a love for both music and God's word.

Christy met her husband Nathan in 1993 at the Christian Artists Seminar in Estes Park, CO. They married in 1995 and the two began serving as worship leaders in their local church in Oklahoma City, while Nathan finished college at Oklahoma Baptist University. It was during these early years that they began writing songs together in their tiny, one bedroom apartment. In 1996, the two made an album entitled Holy Roar under the name Sons & Daughters with fellow worship leader and friend, Charlie Hall. Louie Giglio, the founder of Passion Conferences, got a hold of this album and invited Christy, Nathan and Charlie to attend the very first Passion Conference in Austin, TX in 1997.

Eventually they signed a recording contract as Watermark and moved to Nashville, TN in 1998.  Together as Watermark, Christy and Nathan recorded five albums with Rocketown Records. They composed a journey full of songs, 7 of which were #1 radio singles. They have been nominated for numerous Dove Awards.  After 5 albums, Christy and Nathan felt led to end their Watermark season to focus on other areas of ministry. This gave Christy more time at home with their children, and more availability to focus on leading worship and even teaching some for various women's events.

Christy and Nathan have continued to serve at Passion Conferences and in 2008, they moved to Atlanta, GA to be a founding family of Passion City Church. Nathan produced and co-wrote Christy's recent solo album. 

Family Life: Christy & Nathan Nockels have three children: Noah, Elliana and Annie Rose.

Album: Life Light Up

Twitter: @christynockels

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Life Light Up


SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q: Who was made from a single bone?

A: Eve (Genesis 2:21-22)

Way to go Benedita of Federalsburg, MD!

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

NEW RELEASE TUESDAY

Forevermore
by Jon Bauer | Genre: Praise & Worship
*Canada's latest import

WANT MORE? CLICK HERE

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Jamie Slocum




Jamie Slocum made the choice to be the starving musician in the early 90's - moving to Nashville to make his music career happen. Jamie has steadily honed his talents and skills all the while learning that real success was found in his deeper dependence on the Lord Jesus Christ.

In 2009 his hit song "Dependence" garnered him a #1 hit on Christian radio for 11 weeks - and his follow up "Fragile" raced up the charts as well. Both songs deal with the issue of trusting God in an uncertain world. How we must delight in adversity knowing that our faith is being tested.

Album: Dependence Deluxe Edition

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Just Another Mountain



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q: What weapon did Samson use to kill a thousand men with?

A: the jawbone of a donkey (Judges 15:15)

Way to go Laura in Lexington Park, MD!

Monday, January 2, 2012

It's the first Joy Ride of 2012!  So lets do it right...

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Jonny Diaz

Jonny comes from a family of overachievers. Both he and two of his brothers went to Florida State University on FULL BASEBALL SCHOLARSHIPS!  FSU has a tremendous reputation in the world of college baseball - these guys are talented - Two of them went pro!  In fact, Jonny's brother Matt plays for the Pittsburgh Pirates! But a year into college, Jonny found his calling was music and not playing ball. Turning away from a full ride, he focused on what God called him to do - and it is paying off in spades!

From the beginning of his music career, Diaz’s desire has been to write songs that entertain, encourage and challenge fellow believers.  Jonny Diaz on writing songs: “I attempted to break free from some of the traditional confines of Christian music, but I couldn’t get away from the fact that most of my songs revolve around my relationship with Christ. He is the focus of my life and I find it impossible to honestly record my emotions and my journey without including Him."

Back when Diaz started playing music in college, he told himself he would continue as long as people were interested – and he feels that it is clearer now more than ever that this is what God has for him. “I love making music; it’s challenging and fun,” he says, “but my prayer is always: Whatever God wants me to do, that is where I want to be. It a prayer of abandon to be used by God wherever and whenever.”

Fun Fact: The secret track on the new album is his "Chick Fil-A song."

Album: Jonny Diaz

Twitter: @jonnydiaz

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: How to Play Waiting Room



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q: What was the name of the island where Paul and his companions landed after the shipwreck?

A: Malta (Acts 28:1)

Score for Josiah in Milford!