Monday, December 31, 2012

It's the very last day in 2012 to make an impact in this ministry!  CLICK HERE.

ARTIST OF THE DAY
The Newsboys

Part of the Holy Trinity of 90s Christian music (DC Talk, Audio Adrenaline, and The Newsboys) - The Newsboys have been touring the globe for nearly 25 years! The band originated in Australia, but the current line-up is a bit more diverse.

Facts: The Newsboys were formed in 1985 as "The News" in Queensland, Austrailia. There are no original members performing in the band's current line-up.

A few years ago Michael Tait (of DC Talk) took over lead-singer duties for The Newsboys.  In 2012 they recorded music for the new VeggieTales movie The League of Incredible Vegetables.

Album: God's Not Dead

Twitter: @newsboys

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: The League of Incredible Vegetables



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
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Friday, December 28, 2012

Every financial gift you make to Joy 102.5 in 2012 is tax deductible - but you have to get it to us by the 31st!  CLICK HERE to give now.

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Brenton Brown

Brenton Brown grew up in Cape Town, South Africa - then studied in Oxford (Rhodes Scholar), England - and now lives in Malibu, California. So he's been around.

While studying in England, Brenton Brown became one of the young worship leaders at the very first Vineyard UK. But just when life seemed to be roaring down the highway of success, Brown fell ill with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and was forced to leave his position as worship pastor and take a sabbatical in his South African home town. It was there that he married Jude - also ill with CFS.

Brenton then recorded and released his album Everlasting God. Realizing that a change in pace and lifestyle might assist their recovery in 2005 the Browns reluctantly left London and their home church of Holy Trinity Brompton for California. Since then they have been welcomed into the Horizon family of churches and have traveled across the States and beyond leading worship in churches as far away as Sweden and Korea. 2008 saw the arrival of a baby daughter named Bella.

Songs By Brenton Brown That You Probably Know:
Lord Reign in Me
All who are Thirsty
Come Now Is The Time
Hungry
Everlasting God

Album: God My Rock

Twitter: @brentonbrown

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Jesus Take All Of Me Official lyrics video



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
CLICK HERE for The Ark on WOLC.org (Southern Gospel)

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Time is running out to lose all that weight in 2012... whoops...

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Jadon Lavik

Jadon was born in Redmond, Washington, where he was raised in a Christian home with his parents and two siblings. Although he had some experience with music early in life playing violin and guitar, he was most energized about sports and desired to pursue a baseball career. But after an internship at Saddleback church in Southern California, the calling on his life became glaringly obvious.

Jadon Lavik's seminary background gives him a true concern with using Biblical theology in his worship songs. It is sometimes easier for a songwriter to go with what feels good. Spiritual candy. But Jadon deals with the depths of God's word in his writings.

Now married with two kids, Jadon ministers in the local church and tours the country playing music whenever he can. He's been a part of several Christmas compilations and has a wonderful length Christmas album too!  Which makes him even cooler in my eyes!

Christmas Album: Christmas

Album: Roots Run Deeper

Twitter: @jadonlavik

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: That Spirit of Christmas



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
CLICK HERE for The Ark on WOLC.org (Southern Gospel)

Wednesday, December 26, 2012

So... Christmas happened.

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Hillsong

An entire worship movement was born out of the Hillsong mega-church in Australia! Dozens of worship leaders and bands have come into being through this one ministry. Led by worship leaders Reuben Morgan, Ben Fielding, Joel Houston, Darlene Zschech and Hillsong UNITED the team record a live album each year.

The Mission Statement: Hillsong LIVE is the global expression of praise and worship from Hillsong Church with a commitment to resourcing the wider church, and a passion for seeing people connect with God in a real and personal way.

Since 1992, Hillsong LIVE has resourced the local church and received gold and platinum album status multiple times, writing such well known worship songs as "Shout To The Lord", "Inside Out", "Hosanna", "The Stand" and “Mighty to Save”, awarded the 2009 Dove for Worship Song of the Year!

Christmas Album: We Have A Savior

Albums: CLICK HERE

Twitter: @hillsong

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: We Have A Saviour



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
CLICK HERE for The Ark on WOLC.org (Southern Gospel)

Merry Christmas from The Joy Ride!

Friday, December 21, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
3 Days

Merry Christmas to all!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Caedmon's Call

Caedmon's Call has been producing eclectic, acoustic driven music for two decades. Cliff Young fronts this family of songwriters that includes Derek Webb, Danielle Young (Cliff's wife), Andy Osenga, Todd Bragg, Garett Buell, Jeff Miller and Josh Moore. Ask any Christian performer who they think is authentic in a world of pop culture glitz and they'll tell you, without skipping a beat, Caedmon's Call.

When Christian music exploded in the 90s - playing sold out arenas and massive mega-churches, Caedmon's Call continued (in spite of their great success) to play coffee shops and bars. They always wanted to be where they felt Jesus would be. Caedmon’s Call has sold over a million units of its 15 records to date but has always been more of a community itself than a band.

Caedmon’s also helped launch or boosted the careers of artists like Bebo Norman, Jill Phillips, Waterdeep, and Andrew Peterson. The band is also a longtime promoter of missional living, through their longtime partnership with Compassion International, and more recently with the Dalit Freedom Network, an organization fighting caste discrimination in India, and the band’s own Share The Well Foundation.

Birth: The band formed around an acoustic guitar in Cliff Young's dorm room while they were all still in college. Although Cliff and Danielle had been song writing together while dating in high school.

Fashion: Danielle Young often wears overalls in concert - and the rest of the band now refers to all overalls as Danielles.

Christmas Music: Caedmon's Call is a featured artist on the City On A Hill: It's Christmas Time Christmas/Worship album.

Album: Raising Up The Dead

Twitter: @caedmonscall

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Lead of Love live



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  What did Samson use as a weapon to slay 1000 Philistines?

A:  The jawbone of a donkey. (Judges 15)

It's a very merry Christmas for Stephanie in Parksley, VA!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
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Thursday, December 20, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
4 Days

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Kari Jobe

Kari Jobe knew at 10 that she would be a worship leader. Raised in a Christian home with a father who was a traveling minister, Kari began singing in church when she was 3. Through high school and college, Kari watched God set the path before her as she began leading worship in various places. She spent time studying at Oral Roberts University, Christ For The Nations and Dallas Baptist University, where she finished her Psychology and Pastoral Ministries degree.

For the past seven years Kari has been a worship pastor at her home church in Southlake, TX. She has been a featured singer on Gateway Worship projects and in 2009 released her self-titled debut album (and promptly won her first Dove award).

In 2012, Kari released a brand new album (and special Christmas edition) called Where I Find You.  The new album features the hit songs We Are and Steady My Heart.  Kari says the new album is a "clarion call for listeners to experience His presence to the fullest!"

Family Facts: Kari turned 30 this year, but is still deeply entwined with her family, who live in Texas and go to her church.  She and her sister Kris have an exclusive line of jewelry and t-shirts where all the proceeds go to the cause of bringing an end to human trafficking and injustice.

Christmas Album: Where I Find You - Christmas Edition

Album: Where I Find You

Twitter: @karijobe

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Steady My Heart



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  What type of animal did Samson use to burn down the fields belonging to the Philistines?

A:  Foxes (300 of them!)

Merry Christmas to Rick in Pocomoke!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
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Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
5 Days

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Matt Maher

Over the past few years Matt Maher has made the transition from full-time ministry at his home church in Mesa, Arizona to life as a respected worship leader with an international platform.

Leaving behind the comfort and security of home is a scary thing.  And Matt should know.  He moved from his native Newfoundland, Canada to the US to pursue a life in ministry. By following God's call, Maher has had the chance to write some incredible worship songs and work with other gifted worship leaders such as Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman, Brenton Brown, Audrey Assad, Jars of Clay and Hawk Nelson.

Matt Maher's challenge to those he worships with is, "In a post Christian society, everybody is called to be a missionary wherever we are. The mission field has changed. The mission field is everywhere."

Family: Last summer Matt and his wife welcomed their first child. A son, named Michael Conor.

And The Nominees Are...: Matt Maher has been nominated for 6 Dove Awards.

Album: The Love In Between

Twitter: @mattmahermusic

Tour: CLICK HERE 
*Matt will be in the DC area this January.

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Hold Us Together with puppets...



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  True or False: Samson's first amazing feat was killing a lion bare-handed.

A:  True (Judges 14)

Merry Christmas, Adam in Lincoln, DE!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
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Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
6 Days

NEW RELEASE TUESDAY

No New Releases Today...

WANT MORE? CLICK HERE

BEST OF CHRISTMAS 2012

Christmas: God With Us
by Jeremy Camp

Christmas
Francesca Battistelli

Sleddin' Hill
by August Burns Red

We Have A Savior
by Hillsong

Joy
By Steven Curtis Chapman

'Tis The Season To Be Gotee Too
Compilation (featuring Jamie Grace and more!)

Noel
By Josh Wilson

Christmas Stories: Repeat The Sounding Joy
by Jason Gray

Joy To The World
by Lincoln Brewster

It's Christmas (Christmas Angel Edition)
by Mandisa (re-release with new songs)

Christmas: With One Breath He Came
by Sarah Macintosh

It's Christmas
by Mikeschair

Songs For Christmas Vol 1
by Starfield

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!  The band gets its name from, you guessed it, the chair frontman Mike Grayson sat in during band practice.  It's kind of a lackluster story, actually...

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.”

Not only have MIKESCHAIR toured the world in a few short years, they've maintained their heart for missions.  The band continues to work with the international relief agencies Food for the Hungry and Buckner International; both organizations that help at risk orphans in Central and South America.

Their Big Break: Just a few weeks into the band's creation, the guys won Belmont University's Music Showcase competition, got signed to CURB Records and got themselves nominated at the Dove Awards for Song of The Year (for Let The Waters Rise).

Christmas Album: It's Christmas EP

Album: A Beautiful Life

Twitter: @MIKESCHAIR

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: All For You



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Which judge of Israel had an ambitious son named Abimelech?

A:  Gideon (Judges)

Merry Christmas, Kitty in Seaford, DE!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
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Monday, December 17, 2012

It does not feel like Christmas outside.  Well, maybe Christmas in Mexico. So feliz navidad!

Countdown to Christmas:
7 Days

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Cindy Morgan

Cindy Morgan was born and raised in East Tennessee (Harrogate, TN).  In 1992, her debut album, Real Life, earned her six Dove Award nominations.  And her follow-up, A Reason to Live, kept those Dove Award nominations rolling in.  To date, she has received 12 Dove awards (including songwriter of the year), with many more nominations.  She also has 21 #1 hits to her credit, including songs performed by Mandisa, Francesca Battistelli, Brit Nicole, Mark Schultz and others.

In 2001, Cindy Morgan took a break from her career to dedicate time to her family (she has two daughters). During that time, she continued writing songs for several artists. Some of the artists that have recorded songs from her are Point of Grace, Michael W. Smith, Avalon, Carman, Rachael Lampa, Michael English, BeBe Winans, Sandi Patty, Jaci Velasquez, Mark Schultz, John Tesh, Christy Carlson Romano and Natalie Grant.

In 2006, Cindy returned to music with Postcards and more recently released a blue-grass/folk hymns album called Hymns:Some Glad Morning. She also performs in a band called St. Lola in the Fields.

Family Fact: Cindy is married to Christian author Sigmund Brouwer (who wrote the popular children's series The Accidental Detective amongst other great books).

Album:  Hymns: Some Glad Morning

Twitter: @cindymorgan

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Don't Say by St. Lola in the Fields



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  The first thing God told Gideon to do was to tear down an altar to what false god?

A:  Baal (Judges 6:25)

Merry Christmas, Sandra in Fruitland, MD!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
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Friday, December 14, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
10 Days

Make some plans with our JOY NOTES!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Life Wide Open

Life Wide Open has spent the last five years leading worship for youth conferences, camps, retreats and revivals throughout the Southeastern United States.  The Knoxville based worship band has been compared to artists Lincoln Brewster, Fee, Chris Tomlin, and Hillsong United.

These five, normal guys will tell you that it is an honor to lead worship at any event, no matter how big or small. According to lead vocalist Mike Hicks, “it is important that everyone sees that it is not about us. It is about God and we are here to worship Him. Through God, we get to meet some wonderful people and we enjoy spending time getting to know them as people and not venues. We want people to know that we are not here for a rock concert, but we are here to worship with them.”

This is one reason that Life Wide Open continues to be asked to lead worship at events such as Lifeway’s Ridgecrest, G3, and the Smokey Mountain Youth Conference just to name a few.

Their 2010 release Strong scored radio success across the country. The 12-song album is comprised of all original modern worship tracks and even a classic hymn for some added flavor.

Life Wide Open’s focus is making worship a deep personal experience for those in attendance. “Seeing an audience have that Holy encounter with our Savior makes it all worth it. Hearing stories of how Christ has spoken through our music keeps us going. We want to see God change lives and give people the hunger to live their Life Wide Open for Him.”

Christmas Music: Life Wide Open is featured in several Christmas compilation albums.

Album: Strong

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Sing With Me



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Who was the first female Judge in Israel?

A:  Deborah (Judges 4)

Merry Christmas, Heidi in Delmar!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
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Thursday, December 13, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
11 Days

ARTIST OF THE DAY
MercyMe

This Greenville, TX band has been cranking out number 1 hits and gold and platinum albums for almost 20 years. In fact, it was 12 years ago that they wrote and recorded a song that transformed Christian music. You might have heard of the tune "I Can Only Imagine."

Charts: MercyMe's 7th studio album The Hurt & The Healer debuted at No. 7 on the Billboard 200 top albums.  That's not just Christian albums - that's every album!

Funny: The group’s name, “MercyMe”, originated during Bart’s time as a youth ministry intern in Florida. Bart’s grandmother would exclaim, “Well mercy me, why don’t you get a real job?”

Little Known Fact: Bart Millard was a footballer in high school until he sustained an injury to his ankle. He took up choir in school as an elective and never stopped singing.

Sailing: You can join MercyMe for a 7-day cruise to the Caribbean next January for their 2nd Annual Rock & Worship Boatshow!

Christmas Album: The Christmas Sessions

Album: The Hurt and The Healer

Twitter: @mercyme

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Little Drummer Boy MercyMe Volume 2



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Who tested God with a fleece?

A:  Gideon (Judges)

Merry Christmas to Everett in Lusby, MD!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
CLICK HERE for The Ark on WOLC.org (Southern Gospel)

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
12 Days

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Francesca Battistelli

At only six years old, Francesca was an aspiring actress. She longed to be on Broadway - singing and dancing and acting. Francesca’s passion for life on the stage wasn’t all that surprising, given her mom and dad’s extensive theater background. In fact, they met when her dad was the assistant conductor for the national tour of “The King and I,” while her mom played Anna, the show's female lead opposite Yul Brynner.

When Francesca was 15, she put her skills to good use in an all-girl mainstream pop group in Orlando, an experience that helped pave the way for what she does today. When the gig eventually ended, Francesca says she was thankful for an opportunity to clear her head. “Not long after, I recharged my batteries by going to this youth ministry that I absolutely loved,” Francesca shares. “It was there where the Lord really captured my heart for Christian music. I started playing guitar and really longed to bring something authentic to the scene that even non-Christians could listen to.”

Honors: In September, Francesca was surprised on stage by the President of Word Entertainment - who awarded her a gold album for her debut, My Paper Heart.  This marks the first debut album from a CCM artist in nearly a decade to receive RIAA-certified Gold status for sales in excess of 500,000 units. (Casting Crowns’ release in 2003 was the last debut album to receive RIAA Gold certification)

Family Life:Francesca tours with her family - her husband plays drums in her band and their two-year old son Matthew gets carted around on tour with them.

Christmas Album: Christmas

Twitter: @francescamusic

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Christmas Memories



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Was Ehud right or left-handed?

A:  Left-handed (Judges 3:15)

Happy Christmas for Grace from Bishopville!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
CLICK HERE for The Ark on WOLC.org (Southern Gospel)

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
13 Days

NEW RELEASE TUESDAY

Almeria
by Lifehouse | Genre: Pop/Rock

WANT MORE? CLICK HERE

BEST OF CHRISTMAS 2012

Christmas: God With Us
by Jeremy Camp

Christmas
Francesca Battistelli

Sleddin' Hill
by August Burns Red

We Have A Savior
by Hillsong

Joy
By Steven Curtis Chapman

'Tis The Season To Be Gotee Too
Compilation (featuring Jamie Grace and more!)

Noel
By Josh Wilson

Christmas Stories: Repeat The Sounding Joy
by Jason Gray

Joy To The World
by Lincoln Brewster

It's Christmas (Christmas Angel Edition)
by Mandisa (re-release with new songs)

Christmas: With One Breath He Came
by Sarah Macintosh

It's Christmas
by Mikeschair

Songs For Christmas Vol 1
by Starfield

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Plus One

Right around the turn of the century there was a resurgence of pop music.  Boy-bands were hip and the Christian music industry joined the foray with Plus One.  This singing, dancing, harmonizing quintet ruled the charts for about three years before disbanding (much like every other pop group of the age).  But in their wake they left several fun albums, including a fantastic Christmas project.

Plus One had a couple of mega-hits in 2000, Written On My Heart and ,God Is In This Place shot to the top of the charts.  But like most pop outfits of the age - it was short-lived.

The band had its ups and downs, and by their final 2003 release Exodus there were only three members of the group left.  Plus their sound had morphed into a Coldplay-esque rock outfit - rather than the N'Sync clone they began as.

Christmas Album: Christmas

Album: Exodus

Video: Written On My Heart



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  What was the name of the hill country promised by God to Caleb and the tribe of Judah?

A:  Hebron (Joshua 14)

Merry Christmas, Eric in Salisbury!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
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Monday, December 10, 2012

Just a handful of days left in 2012 - just enough time to check off one or two things on last year's resolution list.  Get on it!

Countdown to Christmas:
14 Days

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Jars of Clay

Jars of Clay formed in 1994, when Dan Haseltine and Charlie Lowell became friends at Greenville College.  In '95, the band's breakout hit Flood had topped Christian and secular charts and propelled the band to center stage for the last fifteen years.

The band's album The Shelter was a creative experiment.  The band brought in their close friends to co-write songs for the album.  And their friends are cooler than normal.  TobyMac, Laura Story, Mac Powell, Amy Grant, Brandon Heath, Derek Webbm, Leigh Nash and Phillip LaRue, amongst others all contributed to the awesome musical project.

On The Shelter, Jars of Clay explores how the church both excells and falls short in the world.  It's both a celebration of the body of Christ and a challenge to remain faithful and renew efforts in being God's hands and feet in this broken world.

The band is no stranger to promoting social justice and advocating global projects to affect change in the third-world.  They have been active partners in the Blood:Water Mission, which seeks to provide fresh water and sanitation to the lost parts of Africa.

Christmas Albums: Christmas Songs  AND More Christmas Songs EP

Album: The Shelter

Twitter: @jarsofclay

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Awkward Christmas Greeting



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  What city was Rahab from?

A:  Jericho

Merry Christmas to Dale!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
CLICK HERE for The Ark on WOLC.org (Southern Gospel)

Friday, December 7, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
17 Days

Make some Christmas plans with our JOY NOTES!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Go Fish

Go Fish is bringing fun, Christ-centered accapella fueled music to families and young children! Everything they do is geared towards introducing kids to Jesus through music, dance, visuals and fun.

Kickin’ It Old School is the latest installment of the biblical foundation for kids and families that Go Fish has been building since their 2003 children’s music debut, Splash.

The Calling: Leaving behind a career in Christian pop, the group turned their attention to making music exclusively for kids (including their own line of Vacation Bible School materials).

Recently Go Fish put their vocal spin on classic hymns, like Before the Throne of God Above. In Kickin' it Old School, Go Fish has recorded hymns and classic praise songs to introduce children to the worship music of their parents and grandparents, but in a style that is relevant today.

This year the group released The Gift of Advent - which is Christmas-centered Sunday School/Bible Study curriculum.  They are currently working on a new full-length album and brand new VBS material for 2013!

Christmas Album: Christmas With A Capital C

Album: Kickin' It Old School

Twitter: @gofishguy

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Joy To The World



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Who was the first Israelite to move to Egypt?

A:  Joseph

Congratulations Beth in Stockton, MD! Merry Christmas!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
CLICK HERE for The Ark on WOLC.org (Southern Gospel)

Thursday, December 6, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
18 Days

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Peder Eide

For over a decade, Peder Eide has led Christ-centered praise and worship for youth conferences, festivals, camps, churches and any other venues students and their families have gathered. For Peder, it's all about effective communication as we draw closer to God and closer to one another.

His passion is for teaching families to worship together and to truly learn the power of praying for one another. He works to unite parents and children, siblings, and spouses - all in worship. Instead of separating the generations for worship, he aims to bring everyone together, blending many styles of music so that no one feels left out.

As an active artist/spokesperson for Compassion International, Peder is humbled to have seen thousands of third world children sponsored through his ministry. He has also experienced the joy of his own family sponsoring many children.

Peder, along with his wonderful wife Sherri, have further invested in the needs children by internationally adopting two beautiful kids of their own, Makenzie and Teshome. Combined with their three biological treasures Taylor, Allison, and Ethan, the Eide's have uniquely tasted worship together and have truly seen the goodness of the Lord.

His latest, critically acclaimed Christmas release, PERFECT SURPRISE, was selected by The USA TODAY as one of its featured holiday selections and the single "Why Wouldn't I", has become a feature song with ministries and families involved in adoption and orphan care.

Big Dreams: Peder dreamed of being on the PGA tour - and plays golf whenever time affords.

Christmas Albums: Perfect Surprise, Christmas Come On In AND Simply Christmas

Album: Rescue

Twitter: @pedereide

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: What Child Is This



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Out of all the Israelites that left Egypt for the Promised land, only two men survived to live there - who were they?

A:  Joshua and Caleb

Merry Christmas to Kristin in Dagsboro, DE!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

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Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
19 Days

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Mark Harris

After 15 years with 4Him, a collaboration that resulted in 22 No. 1 hits and 8 Dove Awards, Mark Harris has gone on to have a sterling solo career as well! As 4Him’s primary songwriter, Harris had spent years writing from a corporate perspective, making sure his words encompassed what the entire group wanted to say. Now, speaking only for himself, he was able to communicate more personal messages straight from his own heart.

Not only is Mark Harris continuing his musical career, but to give his family a solid foothold on life, he's the Head of Worship Ministries at Bay Community Church near his home on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. That security and home base allows for more time with family - and a needed church roots system.

“I believe that songs can make a difference when someone hears them at the right time. Because I’ve seen how songs impact people, I just can’t leave this behind." - Mark Harris

Fact: Before 4Him, the guys were a part of the ensemble cast of Truth.

Christmas Album: Christmas Is

Album: Stronger In The Broken Places

Twitter: @MarkHarrisMusic

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Christmas Is Live



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Who famously had a conversation with his donkey?

A:  Balaam

Congratulations and merry Christmas to Caleb in Laurel, DE!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
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Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
20 Days

NEW RELEASE TUESDAY

Scripture Snacks, Vol. 2
by Beckah Shae | Genre: Dance

CHRISTMAS

Christmas EP
by Lara Landon | Genre: Christmas

WANT MORE? CLICK HERE

CHRISTMAS 2012

Christmas: God With Us
by Jeremy Camp

Christmas
Francesca Battistelli

Sleddin' Hill
by August Burns Red

We Have A Savior
by Hillsong

Joy
By Steven Curtis Chapman

'Tis The Season To Be Gotee Too
Compilation (featuring Jamie Grace and more!)

Noel
By Josh Wilson

Christmas Stories: Repeat The Sounding Joy
by Jason Gray

Joy To The World
by Lincoln Brewster

It's Christmas (Christmas Angel Edition)
by Mandisa (re-release with new songs)

ARTIST OF THE DAY
David Phelps

Raised in Toball, TX (outside of Houston) by a CPA and an English professor, David Phelps experienced a protected community during his childhood - filled with school and church.

His parents nurtured music in their children. David performed for his high school talent show as a freshman, and his natural ability to captivate an audience sent him propelling into an arts driven life.

He earned a music degree from Baylor University and then snagged a spot in the legendary Gaither Vocal Band. David Phelps continues along his journey hoping to be more and more like Christ. He records, performs and spends as much time with his wife Lori and their four children.

Accolades: As a member of the Gaither Vocal Band, David has received 4 Dove Awards, 2 Grammy Awards, and more than 13 gold and 15 platinum-selling projects. As a soloist, he received 2009 Dove Award nominations for Male Vocalist of the Year and Long Form Video for his Christmas DVD, O Holy Night.

Television Debut: David was featured on an episode of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.

Christmas Album: Christmas with David Phelps AND One Wintry Night

Album: David Phelps Classic

Twitter: @DPhelpsMusic 

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: O Holy Night Live



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Who was Moses' older brother?

A:  Aaron

Merry Christmas, Nancy in Delmar, DE!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
CLICK HERE for The Ark on WOLC.org (Southern Gospel)

Monday, December 3, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
21 Days

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Phillips Craig & Dean

Randy Phillips, Shawn Craig, and Dan Dean make up this vocal group that has been leading worship around the world since 1991. All three are pastors at different churches in Texas and Missouri and prioritize being at home for church. As a group they have earned almost two dozen number 1 radio singles, 9 Dove Awards nominations and several wins - including the 2010 Dove Award for Inspirational Album of the Year, Fearless.

Phillips, Craig & Dean have performed at the conventions of the National Religious Broadcasters and Christian Booksellers Association, appeared at Moody Church, played at Promise Keepers rallies, and recorded music for the National Day of Prayer.

Recovery: Dan Dean has been battling prostate cancer. The worship leader and senior pastor of The Heartland Church in Carrollton, TX., was diagnosed early this spring, just prior to the the release of Phillips, Craig & Dean's most recent album, Breathe In.  Since his initial diagnosis, he has made great progress in his journey on the long road toward recovery and remission.  CLICK HERE to watch a special message from Dan about battling cancer.

Christmas Album: Hope For All The World

Album: Breathe In

Twitter: @pcdguys

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Get To Know Phillips Craig & Dean



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
CLICK HERE for The Ark on WOLC.org (Southern Gospel)

Friday, November 30, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
24 Days

Make some plans with our JOY NOTES!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir

The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir (out of the Brooklyn Tabernacle Church) is directed by Carol Cymbala, the wife of Senior Pastor Jim Cymbala and the daughter of the church founder, the late Rev. Clair Hutchins. Although the Choir is composed of vocally untrained church members, it has been used by the Lord to present the love of God all over the world. The 285-voice choir has recorded three videos, three DVDs, and numerous albums, winning six Grammy Awards.

It is a highly unlikely ensemble, a mixture of ethnic and economic backgrounds. The choir is made up of attorneys and street people, nurses and ex-crack addicts, a unique cross section of humanity.

Pastor Cymbala explains: “None of us would have met if it weren’t for Christ. Our backgrounds are just too diverse. But all of us have one thing in common: we have all been lifted up and saved. So the Choir sings—not about a theological position—but about what has happened to them. It’s not a theory; it’s a reality.”

Christmas Album: A Brooklyn Tabernacle Christmas

Twitter: @TheBrooklynTab

Christmas Concerts: Christmas Once Again

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Emmanuel



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
CLICK HERE for The Ark on WOLC.org (Southern Gospel)

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
25 Days

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Amy Grant

Amy Grant was the first Contemporary Christian artist to have a platinum record, the first to hit #1 on the pop charts and the first to perform at the Grammys.  And while much was made of her making secular albums, her testimony opened the door for people to share their faith in the broader music market.

Born in Augusta, Georgia in 1960 during the residency of her doctor father, Grant was still a baby when her family (she’s the youngest of four daughters) moved back to its native Nashville.  She had been singing in church and school for years and a friend, producer Brown Bannister, allowed her to use the studio she interned at to duplicate a tape of her original songs that she wanted to give to her family. A Word Records producer heard the tape and played it over the phone for company executives - and she was immediately given a recording contract at the ripe old age of 15.

Back in the mid-80s, Amy Grant SHOCKED the Christian community by taking her act to the secular music market. It wasn't the first time that a beloved Christian artist went mainstream, but it deeply affected people at the time. You might remember the song Baby, Baby - Back then, that was tantamount to sacrilege. Now, it's muzak in elevators.

She branched out to country music as well. The past decade, Amy Grant has been back to making Christian records. She and her husband Vince Gill are all over the place; Christian, Country, Pop - they have great Christmas records as well!

Random Tidbit: Amy Grant's old background vocalist and keyboard player was Michael W. Smith!

A Star: In 2006 Amy Grant was given a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Christmas Album: The Christmas Collection

Album: Somewhere Down The Road

Twitter: @AmyGrant

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Grown Up Christmas List



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Out of twelve, how many Israeli spies recommended they attack Canaan and take the Promised Land?

A:  Just two. Joshua & Caleb. (Numbers 13)

Way to go Shannon in Craddockville!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
CLICK HERE for The Ark on WOLC.org (Southern Gospel)

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
26 Days

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Steven Curtis Chapman

Steven Curtis Chapman has released over 20 albums. He has 5 Grammy awards and 50 GMA Dove Awards. He's sold over 10 million albums worldwide.

Several years ago the Chapman's youngest daughter died in a car accident at the family's home. Through this experience, the family has shown unwavering faith and committment to the calling on their lives.

Accolades: After speaking at Anderson University's graduation this Spring, Chapman was awarded an honorary doctorate.  This September, the Christian Music Broadcasters awarded SCC the first-ever Rich Mullins Impact Award, recognizing his long-time contributions to the music and ministry of Christian Radio.

Family Business: Show Hope is the family's adoption ministry. Chapman's two sons Caleb and Will have a band called CALEB.  Mary Beth (Steven's wife) is an acclaimed author, with her latest book Choosing To See is a New York Times bestseller.

Christmas Album: Joy 

Album: re:creation

Twitter: @StevenCurtis

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Christmas Card Live



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Which sibling of Moses did God curse with leprosy for speaking out against Moses?

A:  Miriam

Merry Christmas to Karen in Melfa, VA!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
CLICK HERE for The Ark on WOLC.org (Southern Gospel)

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
27 Days

NEW RELEASE TUESDAY

Bethlehem Sky
by Mercy's Well | Genre: Christmas

White As Snow/Joy
by Sean Giachetti | Genre: Rap

WANT MORE? CLICK HERE

CHRISTMAS 2012

Christmas: God With Us
by Jeremy Camp

Christmas
Francesca Battistelli

Sleddin' Hill
by August Burns Red

We Have A Savior
by Hillsong

'Tis The Season To Be Gotee Too
Compilation (featuring Jamie Grace and more!)

Joy
Steven Curtis Chapman

Noel
By Josh Wilson

Christmas Stories: Repeat The Sounding Joy
by Jason Gray

Joy To The World
by Lincoln Brewster

It's Christmas (Christmas Angel Edition)
by Mandisa (re-release with new songs)

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Todd Agnew

Todd Agnew modeled his early career after Rich Mullins. He was a lone gun, describing his methodology as, "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." If you've seen him in concert you know that he isn't afraid to stop mid-song and tell the crowd exactly how he feels.

But in 2008 Todd went from flying solo all over the world to owning a home, getting married, and becoming a step-dad. You can imagine that changes your perspective. His latest album is filled with a sense of Joy, Hope, and Love that had been missing in both Todd's life and his music.

His latest album How To Be Loved is filled with the lessons of grace Todd has learned over the past couple of years being a family man.

Christmas Album: Do You See What I See

Album: How To Be Loved

Twitter: @AgnewsDei

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Do You See What I See - About the Album

What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  What tribe of Israel did not have to provide any troops for the army?

A:  Levi (Numbers 1:50)

Merry Christmas, Sharon in Trappe!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
CLICK HERE for The Ark on WOLC.org (Southern Gospel)

Monday, November 26, 2012

Countdown to Christmas:
28 Days

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Avalon

Avalon was formed in 1995 by Grant Cunningham, A&R director at Sparrow Records. Cunningham was in search of a vocal group that could sing tight harmonies and carry God's message to the world. He pooled talent from mega group Truth and other struggling soloists to form the harmony driven vocal group - and its been a whirlwind of excellence for the last 16 years!

So who has that sort of success and says "I think we need to shake things up a bit?" That's exactly what Avalon did with their latest album Reborn. As artists they wanted to be more than just relevant, but to push the envelope and deliver music with a message that will reach the world.

Avalon by the Numbers:
4 million records sold
21 chart topping singles
13 albums
6 Dove Awards
3 Grammy nominations
1 American Music Award

Current Line-up:
Janna Long
Greg Long
Jeremi Richardson
Amy Richardson

Former Members:
Rikk Kittleman
Tabitha Fair
Nikki Anders
Cherie Adams
Michael Passons
Jody McBrayer
Melissa Greene

Christmas Album: Joy

Album: Reborn

Twitter: @AVALONtheGroup

Tour: CLICK HERE to book your Christian Cruise!

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Winter Wonderland



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  What book of the Bible gets its name from a census Moses took of the Israelites?

A:  Numbers.

Merry Christmas to Kathy in Girdletree!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
CLICK HERE for The Ark on WOLC.org (Southern Gospel)

Friday, November 23, 2012

It's Black Friday!
Are you shopping, resting, decorating or working?
And yes - that is Christmas music you are hearing!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Circleslide

“Throughout all the traveling, the goal has always been to make music that would inspire people, touch hearts and lead them to Christ,” asserts front man Gabe Martinez.

For over five years, Circleslide has been relentlessly touring and leading young people to Christ.  But it hasn't been easy.  There have been breakdowns, surgeries, loss and more.  A couple of years ago Nashville flooded, which destroyed band members' homes, along with lots of equipment.  There were times it would have been easy to quit.  But Circleslide perserveres.

“It could be someone without a job, someone else having a hard time in general with the economy, a person dealing with death, a single mom with a crazy schedule or a college kid chasing a dream – no matter who you are, we want to remind you that you’re not alone and God has given you the ability to keep going, no matter how hard it gets,” Gabe Martinez

Prolific: Lead Singer Gabe is also a member of the band Stomp Town Revival.

The band's Christmas music is featured on Bethlehem Skyline Volume 1.

Band Members:
Gabe Martinez - Lead Vocals, Guitar, BGVs
Eric Vickers - Bass
Jonathan DeAnda - Lead Guitar
Lee Yoder - Drums

Album: Echoes Of The Light

Twitter: @circleslide

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: You Are Everything



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
CLICK HERE for The Ark on WOLC.org (Southern Gospel)

Happy Turkey Day!

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Thanksgiving Countdown:
Tomorrow in Thanksgiving!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Josh Wilson

Josh Wilson grew up the son of a preacher in Lubbock, Texas. His debut album Trying to Fit the Ocean in a Cup became one of 2008's biggest success stories. The album was called “the future of Christian pop." and his songs Savior Please and Before the Morning rocked Christian radio coast to coast. This year, Josh Wilson released See You and a Christmas album called Noel - both of which have already garnered him awards and accolades, along with radio hits.

“Faith is being sure of what we hope and certain of what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1

The tension between faith and sight is what See You is all about. Josh is quite the accomplished musician, playing 20 instruments on the record, including, ukulele, hammered dulcimer, and the glockenspiel!

I Refuse evolved as Josh was reading David Platt’s book, Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream. While reading the book, Nashville was hit with a huge flood. It was devastating to Josh's community and spurred him to not just cop out with prayer and go along his merry way - but to step out in action to help his community.

Awards: This summer at the ASCAP Christian Awards (held in Nashville), Josh Wilson was awarded for his songs I Refuse, Fall Apart and Jesus Is Alive - PLUS at the end of the night we was awarded as the ASCAP's Songwriter/Artist of the Year!

Christmas Album: Noel

Album: See You

Twitter: @joshwilson

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: I Refuse



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  What was the 50th year the Israelites spent in the Promise Land called?

A:  The Year of Jubilee (Leviticus)

Way to go Darrel in Pocomoke!

JOIN THE TEAM!

Joy 102.5 is a listener supported ministry.  You can be a part of this amazing ministry by supporting us financially. CLICK HERE to learn more!

LISTEN ONLINE

CLICK HERE for Joy 102.5! (Christian Hits)
CLICK HERE for The Ark on WOLC.org (Southern Gospel)