Newsboys Debut Powerful New Single "We Believe," Band's Biggest Add Week Ever at Christian Radio

Nashville, Tenn. (March 13, 2014) – Four-time GRAMMY®-nominated band Newsboys celebrated a career defining moment this week, picking up 64 adds at Christian radio for their single “We Believe” off of Restart. This is the biggest add week ever in the band's history, who already boast an impressive track record with 16 albums, five RIAA Gold certifications, 30 No. 1 radio hits and over 8 million units sold over their multi-decade career, including nearly 1 million records since Michael Tait joined the band. This strong radio exposure also led to a major spike in digital track sales for the single, which is featured on the Restart album, the band's third studio album with Tait as lead.

"We are beyond excited to see radio's enthusiasm with our new single," remarked Tait. "This song is a testament and a definite creed for what we as Christians believe; Our hope and eternal salvation! There is nothing more igniting than to watch from our stage nightly, as listeners holdfast to these beliefs along with their families and friends!"

The Newsboys debuted a lyric video for “We Believe” earlier this year, as well as a live music video recorded at the famous Ocean Way Studios on Music Row in Nashville.

“We Believe” Lyric Video:
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtPmX7e_Rpw

“We Believe” Music Video: 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9i9wtJzok4U

As the Newsboys wind down the final dates of their headlining slot on the internationally top-ranked Winter Jam 2014 Tour spectacular, the band is now gearing up for their headlining “We Believe Tour,” which will hit select cities this April and May. Keeping to tradition for the tour heavy veterans, the Newsboys will hit several music festivals and international dates over the summer. For more information and tickets, visit http://newsboys.com/tour/.

About Newsboys
Four-time GRAMMY®-nominated band Newsboys boasts an impressive track record with 16 albums, five gold certifications, 30 No. 1 radio hits and over 8 million units sold over their multi-decade career. This rock and pop-driven worship band includes front man Michael Tait (vocals) and his band mates who’ve played together for two decades - Jody Davis (guitar), Jeff Frankenstein (keys) and Duncan Phillips (drums). Their 2010 release, Born Again, saw the largest street week of their careers, debuting at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and garnering three No. 1 hits. Their 2012 record, God’s Not Dead, has sold over 300,000 copies and it's title song, "God's Not Dead," topped the CHR radio format for seven weeks in a row. Renown for their heart-pumping live concerts, the tight knit Newsboys unit continues to headline shows in the U.S. and around the world. Their pop-spirited third album with Michael Tait at the helm, Restart, is available in stores now. 

[Get Connected with Newsboys] 
Website // www.newsboys.com 
Facebook // www.facebook.com/newsboys.official
Twitter // www.twitter.com/Newsboys 
iTunes // www.smarturl.it/iTunesRestart

### 

Media Contact 
Velvet Kelm & Ryan Anderson
the media collective 
velvet@themcollective.com 
ryan@themcollective.com 
615.591.7989 
www.themcollective.com

NEEDTOBREATHE Announces Annual Celebrity Golf Tournament, the “NEEDTOBREATHE Classic,” Benefiting Global Health Care Initiatives

Tournament to take place May 20 in South Carolina

Nashville, Tenn. (March 13, 2014) – Musicians, professional athletes and golf enthusiasts will gather on Tuesday, May 20 for the NEEDTOBREATHE Classic presented by Commonwealth Cares Foundation. Registration is now open for the annual golf tournament benefiting Charleston area nonprofit Palmetto Medical Initiative (PMI). Band members of NEEDTOBREATHE – Bear Rinehart, Bo Rinehart and Seth Bolt – are long-time supporters of PMI and, last year, decided to lend their name to Commonwealth Cares Foundation’s annual golf tournament.

The band raised more than $100,000 for PMI through last year's tournament and additional fundraising endeavors. PMI is building sustainable medical clinics around the world, including Uganda and Nicaragua, and recently announced plans to expand its efforts into Burundi. The proceeds from the 2013 NEEDTOBREATHE Classic were used to construct a medical clinic in El Viejo, Nicaragua, which was dedicated in January 2014. This year’s tournament proceeds will benefit another East African clinic in Uganda, with work slated to begin in January 2015.

“Investing in something bigger than oneself and one's talents is something we all have a quiet desire for but rarely get to experience. My trip to Uganda with PMI in December 2011 was a small glimpse into the critical needs and important work that PMI is undertaking,” said Bear Rinehart of NEEDTOBREATHE. “PMI has done a brilliant job of not only asking the right questions, but also finding and committing to answers that work.”

Additional celebrity players including musicians, professional sports players and more will be announced in the coming weeks. Watch www.commonwealthcares.org and its social media networks for announcements. For registration or sponsorship opportunities, call 843-884-4545. NEEDTOBREATHE and other musicians will perform at an after-party concert for sponsors and players (separate VIP ticket available for purchase with golf registration).

NEEDTOBREATHE will release their fifth studio album, Rivers In The Wasteland, next month on April 15. They recently performed their Triple A single "The Heart" on CONAN, and their next single "Multiplied" will go for adds at Christian AC radio starting April 18. 

About NEEDTOBREATHE
NEEDTOBREATHE is an American Rock ‘n’ Roll Band from South Carolina, effortlessly woven from the musical traditions and faith of their upbringing in the Deep South of the United States. Made up of brothers Bear Rinehart (vocals, guitar) and Bo Rinehart (guitar, vocals), as well as Seth Bolt (bass, vocals), the band hit their big break in 2005 when they signed to Atlantic/Lava/Word Records. The career to follow would include four full studio albums, chart-topping cross-genre success, multiple headlining tours and media coverage on CONAN, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Late Show with David Letterman, MTV, FOX and much more. The band’s fifth studio album, Rivers In The Wasteland, will be available April 15, 2014.

[Get Connected with NEEDTOBREATHE]
Website // needtobreathe.com
Facebook // facebook.com/needtobreathe
Twitter // twitter.com/needtobreathe
YouTube // youtube.com/NEEDTOBREATHEVIDEOS

About Commonwealth Financial Group
Commonwealth Financial Group is a comprehensive financial services firm based on Daniel Island with a vision to recreate the way financial services are provided and a philosophy that doing the right thing for the client is paramount. With three offices, including Daniel Island, Orangeburg and Raleigh, N.C., the firm brings a values-based approach, offerings clients independent advice through a consultative, team-oriented approach. For more information, call 888-858-5213 or visit www.commonwealthfg.com.

Founded in 2007, Commonwealth Cares Foundation is the charitable arm of Commonwealth Financial Group, a Daniel Island-based financial services firm with a division focused on providing financial planning services to physicians and the medical community.

###

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Ryan Anderson
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
ryan@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

The Afters' “Moments Like This” On NBC for “We Create Moments” Campaign

Currently on the road with Steven Curtis Chapman for "The Glorious Unfolding Tour"
 

Nashville, Tenn. (March 6, 2014) – Four-piece hit-making band The Afters has already had a win this year. The band’s song “Moments Like This” was selected by NBC as the feature song for their “We Create Moments” promo campaign. The song aired frequently during NBC’s promo ads around the Winter Olympics last month, and will continue to run alongside other programming in the weeks ahead. Earlier this year, "Moments Like This" was used on the hit reality show American Idol (FOX). Check out the video for NBC's "We Create Moments" campaign: http://youtu.be/x9wJZv6jvIM.

“Moments Like This” comes off The Afters’ fourth studio album, Life is Beautiful which was released earlier last year. The chart-topping foursome recently celebrated their last single “Every Good Thing” going No. 1 with their current single “Broken Hallelujah” following in its footsteps as it rises on the charts. They are out on the road performing their hit songs with five-time GRAMMY® winner Steven Curtis Chapman on his “The Glorious Unfolding Tour.” For tour date information, visit: http://theafters.com/tour. 

About The Afters 
Texas-based, four-piece band The Afters were propelled into the national spotlight with their INO/Sony Music Label Group debut I Wish We All Could Win. The project spawned the swirling, melodic hit “Beautiful Love,” earning the band an enthusiastic following when the song was selected as the theme track for MTV’s “8th and Ocean.” “Beautiful Love” was also the most downloaded track of 2006 on the iTunes ® Inspirational charts and garnered the band an mtvU award as well. The Afters’ sophomore release Never Going Back To OK (INO/Columbia Records) debuted in the Top 50 on the Billboard Top 200, and proved to be sensation on the silver screen with “Grey’s Anatomy” (ABC), “Dr. Phil,” “Army Wives” (Lifetime) and “Rachael Ray.” The band’s third record Light Up the Sky bolstered two No. 1 radio hits, as well as placements on “The Biggest Loser” (NBC) and “You Deserve It” (ABC). A slew of media including Rolling Stone, Seventeen.com, E! News Live, TV Guide, Premiere Radio and more also picked up on covering The Afters. The band released its fourth studio album, Life Is Beautiful in April 2013 via Fair Trade. 

[Get Connected with The Afters] 
Website // www.theafters.com 
Twitter // www.twitter.com/theafters 
YouTube // www.youtube.com/theaftersvideos 
Facebook // www.facebook.com/theafters

###

Media Contact
Ryan Anderson
the media collective
ryan@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.theMcollective.com

Capital Kings Set to Release New Project REMIXD March 11, Wrap Up Successful Run On TobyMac’s “Hits Deep Tour”

Duo to tour with TobyMac, Skillet and Lecrae in May

Nashville, Tenn. (March 5, 2014) – After finishing the popular “Hits Deep Tour” with TobyMac, electronic-pop duo Capital Kings (Jon White and Cole Walowac) is gearing up for the release of their new project, REMIXD, on March 11 at all digital outlets. REMIXD will compile several remixed tracks from their self-titled album, which released last year, as well as the brand new song “Be A King.” The album will be available exclusively as a CD at Family Christian Stores beginning March 25.  

In support of the new project the radio network Air1 is streaming the entirety of REMIXD as part of their 1stListen promotion starting this week at www.air1.com.

The remix project will also feature the winning track from Capital Kings’ U:REMIX campaign, which called for fans to take an original Capital Kings song and remix it as their own. Through an online contest, the winning contestant and remix ("I Feel So Alive [Matthew Parker U:Remix]") was chosen and will be featured on REMIXD. 

The dynamic remix masters continue to build on the momentum of their early success with recent remixes for Colton Dixon, Natalie Grant and Crowder while working on a brand new album. They also made waves at the 2014 Passion Conferences in Houston and Atlanta earlier this year, opening with a thrilling and energetic performance for over 20,000 students representing 1,200 universities and 33 countries. They kick-off the exclusive “Summer Shed Tour” with TobyMac, Skillet and Lecrae in May.

About Capital Kings
Capital Kings has already begun to make their mark as one of the industry’s hottest new acts, remixing on acclaimed artists’ records including TobyMac (EYE ON IT, Dubbed & Freq'd), Group 1 Crew (Fearless), Mandisa (Remixed: Get Movin') and Britt Nicole (Gold). The D.C. natives made a splash last year with their debut self-titled record that featured TobyMac, Britt Nicole, Royal Tailor and Soul Glow Activatur from Family Force 5. The duo spent the year impacting all across the country – being featured on the West Coast and East Coast run of the Winter Jam Tour, touring with Family Force 5, playing international show dates and the halftime show at an NBA game (Oklahoma City Thunder) and opening for renowned act Neon Trees. Capital Kings will join up with TobyMac, Skillet andLecrae on the “Summer Shed Tour” in May.

About Gotee Records
In 1992 a production team of three talented guys with diverse tastes shared a love for music. Producers Joey Elwood and Todd Collins, along with GRAMMY-winning artist TobyMac, launched Gotee Records in 1994 after unsuccessfully finding a label deal for the R&B trio Out of Eden. With a steady focus on artistry, the new label expanded to reflect the diverse interests of its founders. Within 12 months, Christafari, GRITS, and Johnny Q. Public were signed, easily representing four different music categories: R&B, reggae, rap and rock. In the 20 years since Gotee's founding as a record label, it has launched the careers of Relient K, Jennifer Knapp, Sonicflood and more recently, Jamie Grace, Capital Kings, Finding Favour and Ryan Stevenson. The present day in the Gotee story is much like the label's early days. Through all the changes in a tumultuous music industry, the boutique label's independent spirit is maintained through a steady focus on artist development and diversity.

[Get Connected with Capital Kings]
Website // www.CapitalKingsMusic.com 
Facebook // www.facebook.com/CapitalKings 
Twitter // www.twitter.com/capitalkingsusa 
YouTube // www.youtube.com/capitalkingsmusic

###

Media Contact
Ryan Anderson
the media collective
ryan@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

K-LOVE Announces Nominees For Second Annual Fan Awards Set For Sunday, June 1

Photo Credit: Getty Images/Terry Wyatt

From L to R (Top): Chad Graham and Alan Powell of Anthem Lights, K-LOVE CCO David Pierce, Michael W. Smith, Michael Tait of Newsboys, NASCAR Driver Michael McDowell, Bart Millard of MercyMe, K-LOVE CEO Mike Novak, World Hope Founder & President Dr. David Janney. (Bottom): Joey Stamper and Caleb Grimm of Anthem Lights, Jamie Grace, Host Jennifer Vickery Smith, Britt Nicole, Mike Donehey of Tenth Avenue North, Executive Producer John Sanders

The Ultimate Fan Experience weekend kicks off May 30 and leads up to the star-studded award show at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry

 K-LOVE partners with World Hope to aid in Detroit Revival support

 Artist of the Year nods: TobyMac, Casting Crowns, MercyMe, Chris Tomlin and Matthew West

Nashville, Tenn. (March 4, 2014) – At an exclusive press event this morning at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, K-LOVE announced the nominees for this year’s second annual K-LOVE Fan Awards. Set for Sunday, June 1, K-LOVE - the leading Christian music radio network with a weekly listenership of over 13 million people - will once again bring the only fan-voted award show in Christian Music history to Music City. The K-LOVE Fan Awards and Ultimate Fan Experience kicks off on Friday, May 30 and will wrap with the star-studded award show at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry on Sunday, June 1. Among the attendees for today’s press conference were K-LOVE’s Mike Novak and David Pierce, as well as artists Mike Donehey (Tenth Avenue North), Jamie Grace, Michael McDowell (NASCAR), Bart Millard (MercyMe), Britt Nicole, Michael W. Smith and Michael Tait (Newsboys). The event wrapped with a performance by Anthem Lights who performed a mashup of the K-LOVE Song of the Year nominations. The studio version of that mashup is available now on iTunes®.

The press conference was available via LIVE stream this morning at http://www.klove.com/events/fan-awards, allowing fans and media all around the world to participate. Among today's nominee announcements, this year's K-LOVE Fan Awards will partner with World Hope to aid in the revival of the people of Detroit, MI. Every half a million votes cast for the award show will unlock a newly remodeled home for a family in need in Detroit with a goal of two million votes awarding up to four homes total. Check out the Revival of Detroit video here: Revivalofdetroit.com.

Leading in the top category for K-LOVE Artist of the Year are TobyMac, Casting Crowns, MercyMe, Chris Tomlin and Matthew West. Also revealed this morning was the first voting category for the First Christian Artist to Appear on 7UP Can. Other nominations to be announced at a later date are the Film/Television Impact, Book Impact and Sports Impact Awards.

Voting opens at Midnight (EST) on May 1 and ends at Midnight (EST) on Sunday, June 1. Winners will be announced LIVE at the Awards show in the categories of music, sports, books and movies. Performers already slated are fan favorites such as TobyMac, Steven Curtis Chapman, Third Day, Casting Crowns, Newsboys, and MercyMe, to name a few.

To vote or for more information, visit: www.KLoveFanAwards.com.

K-LOVE Fan Awards Nominees 2014

Song of the Year
“The Only Name” - Big Daddy Weave
“Overcomer” - Mandisa
“Lord I Need You” - Matt Maher
“Hello My Name Is” - Matthew West
“This Is Amazing Grace” - Phil Wickham

Artist of the Year
Casting Crowns
Chris Tomlin
Matthew West
MercyMe
TobyMac

Male Artist of the Year
Matthew West
Chris Tomlin
Colton Dixon
Jeremy Camp
Steven Curtis Chapman
TobyMac

Female Artist of the Year
Britt Nicole
Francesca Battistelli
Jamie Grace
Mandisa
Natalie Grant
Plumb

Group or Duo of the Year
Building 429
Casting Crowns
MercyMe
Newsboys
Sidewalk Prophets
Tenth Avenue North

Worship Song of the Year
“God’s Great Dance Floor” - Chris Tomlin
“I Am” - Crowder
“Oceans” - Hillsong United
“Your Grace Finds Me” - Matt Redman
“You Won’t Let Go” - Michael W. Smith
“Never Once” - One Sonic Society

Best Live Show
for KING & COUNTRY
NEEDTOBREATHE
Newsboys
Rend Collective
Switchfoot
TobyMac

First Christian Artist to Appear on 7UP Can
Hillsong Young & Free
Jamie Grace
Sidewalk Prophets
Tenth Avenue North

K-LOVE Fan Awards
The K-LOVE Fan Awards mission is to create a fan experience that celebrates and promotes artists, athletes, authors and entertainers who, with excellence, engage and impact popular culture for Jesus Christ. Last year’s inaugural event included hosts from the A&E TV’s popular show “Duck Dynasty,” Phil & Kay Robertson and Jase & Missy Robertson. For more information on this year’s exciting lineup and award show hosts, visitwww.KLOVEFanAwards.com.

The Ultimate Fan Experience
Fans are encouraged to sign up for the exclusive K-LOVE Ultimate Fan Experience, which will begin May 30 and run through June 1. With Nashville’s Gaylord Opryland Hotel & Resort as the home base, those who join this Experience will receive tickets to the Awards show, a two-night stay at Opryland, dinner with the K-LOVE staff and friends, a weekend kick-off concert, and access to the K-LOVE Fan Zone, which will include exclusive meet & greets, autograph signings and much more. There are limited spots to the Ultimate Fan Experience and it is slated to sell out. To find out more on this year’s schedule, visit, For a full schedule of the weekend, visit: http://www.klovefanawards.com/schedule-events. The K-LOVE Fan Awards is a John Sanders LLC/World Hope Event.

About K-LOVE
K-LOVE plays positive, encouraging contemporary Christian music with a message designed to draw people toward an authentic relationship with God while living out real life in the real world. The radio network has 446 signals in 47 states with an estimated weekly audience of over 13 million. Now with their first-ever Fan Awards, their mission is to create a unique and fun fan experience that celebrates and promotes artists, athletes, authors and entertainers, who, with excellence, engage and impact popular culture for Jesus Christ.

###

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Ryan Anderson
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
ryan@themcolletive.com
(615) 591-7989
www.theMcollective.com

Phil Wickham Ascends to First Career No. 1 Single with “This Is Amazing Grace” Topping National Christian Audience Chart

Nashville, Tenn. (February 25, 2014) – Critically acclaimed singer/songwriter and worship leader Phil Wickham has impressed critics, fans and industry professionals alike on the performance of his latest album, The Ascension. The ninth album of his decade-long career gave Wickham his best street week debut ever, landing at No. 2 on the Billboard Christian Albums Chart and the Top 40 on the Billboard 200. The first single off the album,“This Is Amazing Grace,” has embraced its own ascension, making its way up the charts to the No. 1 spot Billboard's National Christian Audience Chart this week. The No. 1 is the first of Wickham’s career.

“This Is Amazing Grace was written to give the church a new song to both worship through and sing together,” said Phil Wickham. “It's been awesome to see the way that this song has been impacting Christian radio listeners, and I'm honored to be a part of the work God is doing through it.”

“This Is Amazing Grace,” which was penned with the help of producer Pete Kipley (MercyMe, Matthew West), also landed the No. 1 spot on the Christian AC Monitored and Christian AC Indicator Charts. In addition, Wickham has achieved an impressive presence on iTunes®, consistently holding a Top 5 position on the iTunes® Christian & Gospel Songs Chart. The Ascension reveals a compelling compilation of powerful and melodic tracks inspired by the Songs of Ascent passages found in the book of Psalms.

Since last fall, Wickham has released an official music video and lyric video for “This Is Amazing Grace,” racking up over half a million cumulative views. To watch the videos, visit:

“This Is Amazing Grace” Live Music Video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFRjr_x-yxU

“This Is Amazing Grace” Official Lyric Video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rjXjkbODrro

About Phil Wickham
Phil Wickham is at his core a humble and sincere artist who writes songs and worships God using the medium of music. It is with that brush that he paints images of a loving and creative God across the canvases of listeners’ hearts and minds. The evidence of this gift has been apparent on all four of his critically acclaimed efforts: Phil Wickham (2006),
Cannons (2007), Heaven & Earth (2009), Response (2011) and The Ascension (2013). Wickham's latest release debuted at the No. 2 spot on the Soundscan Christian Albums Chart and in the Top 40 on the Billboard 200.

[Get Connected with Phil Wickham]
Website // www.philwickham.com
Twitter // www.twitter.com/philwickham
Facebook // www.facebook.com/philwickham
YouTube // www.youtube.com/user/PhilWickhamVEVO

###

Media Contact
Ryan Anderson
the media collective
ryan@themcollective.com
615.591.7989
www.theMcollective.com 

TobyMac, Skillet and LeCrae Join Forces to Thrill Crowds on Summer Shed Tour

TobyMac, Skillet and LeCrae Join Forces to Thrill Crowds on Summer Shed Tour

Three of the industry’s best selling, most-awarded and critically acclaimed artists to hit seven select markets this May

Nashville, Tenn. (February 19, 2014) - Three of the industry’s best-selling, most-awarded and critically acclaimed artists, TobyMac, Skillet and Lecrae, are joining forces to thrill crowds on an exclusive summer shed tour. With each act also known for their energetic and diverse live performances, fans in each of the select seven cities are sure to get the show of a lifetime. Tickets go on sale to the mass public on March 1, with a special presale for artist fan clubs at 10am local venue time on February 27 through 10pm on February 28.

Since last fall and continuing through April, TobyMac has been touring the country on his "Hits Deep Tour." The national tour has been selling out venues and playing to packed houses including an emotional set at the Madison Square Garden theatre in New York City. Last week, cable's top-rated morning show Fox & Friends and VEVO.com world premiered the GRAMMY® winner’s music video for his current multi-week No. 1 hit “Speak Life” from his GRAMMY®-award winning and No. 1 Billboard 200 record, EYE ON IT. Currently the video has been viewed over 100,000 times and can be seen here.

After spending last fall rocking Europe opening for Nickelback, Skillet kicked off the year co-headlining The Roadshow, and will tour with Third Day on 20 more domestic dates throughout the spring. Skillet was recently named HM Magazine’s Best Band of 2013, New Release Tuesday’s Best Rock/Alternative Artist or Group of 2013, and their best-selling 2013 releaseRISE was named mainstream online rock site Loudwire’s Best Rock Album, besting Pearl Jam, Avenged SevenFold and more. Loudwire and NewReleaseTuesday.com recently debuted the music video for Skillet’s latest No. 1 Christian rock single, “Not Gonna Die,” which is also climbing the mainstream active rock chart, currently at No. 11 with a bullet.

Since the release of Lecrae’s GRAMMY® award winning album Gravity, Lecrae’s mainstream and Christian audiences and platforms have continued to expand, reflected in his features in TIME, Entertainment Weekly, XXL, The Source, Vibe, and other mainstream media outlets. He was named the NFL Players Choice Performer during Super Bowl XLVII Weekend in New Orleans, due to his positive lyrical messages over hard and gritty hip-hop beats, which appeals to a generation of fans that find his music not only enlightening but also entertaining. Finishing up his tour with Rock the Bells this past fall, Lecrae released the second volume of his mixtape series, Church Clothes, which sold over 40K units after being downloaded over 150,000 times.Lecrae is currently co-headlining Winter Jam with the Newsboys, which has been Pollstar's Worldwide 1st Quarter Ticket Sales Chart topping tour for the past three years.

May Summer Shed Tour with TobyMac, Skillet and LeCrae
May 1   Austin, TX / Austin360 Amphitheater/ Tickets @ TicketMaster.com 
May 2   Oklahoma City, OK / Zoo Amphitheatre/ Tickets @ ProTixOnline.com
May 3   Rio Rancho, NM / Santa Ana Star Center/ Tickets @ ComcastTix.com
May 4   Denver, CO / Red Rocks Amphitheater/ Tickets @ Itickets.com
May 8   Little Rock, AR / First Security Amphitheater (Formerly Riverfest Amphitheater)/ Tickets @ Itickets.com
May 9   St Louis, MO / Verizon Wireless Amphitheater/ Tickets @ TicketMaster.com 
May 10 Memphis, TN / Mud Island Amphitheatre/ Tickets @ TicketMaster.com 

* TICKETS GO ON SALE at 10am locally on Saturday, MARCH 1st.  

About TobyMac
With over 11 million units in career sales, TobyMac's career continues on the fast track. His most recent project, EYE ON IT, garnered him the GRAMMY® Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album and the highest chart debut of his solo career landing at No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200 and topping the iTunes® Overall and Christian sales charts. The project made TobyMac one of only four artists to ever debut atop the Billboard Top 200 with a Christian music album. His previous four solo projects have received RIAA Gold certification and his live DVD, Alive & Transported, is certified platinum by the RIAA and received a GRAMMY® award. His 2009 album Tonight received GRAMMY® nods for Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album and Best Contemporary Christian Song. In less than 15 months, TobyMac has received two GRAMMY® awards, two Billboard Music Awards for Top Christian Artist and Top Christian Album, his first American Music Award for Favorite Artist in the Contemporary/Inspirational category, Dove Awards for "Artist of the Year," "Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year," "Recorded Music Packaging of the Year," "Short Form Video of the Year," KLOVE Music Awards for “Artist of the Year” and swept the 2013 Australian Music Awards.

[Get Connected with TobyMac]
Website // http://www.tobymac.com
Twitter // https://twitter.com/therealtobymac
Facebook // http://www.facebook.com/tobymac
YouTube // http://www.youtube.com/tobymacmusic
iTunes // http://toby.cta.gs/02r

About Skillet
Over the course of the past few years, GRAMMY® nominated and platinum selling rock band Skillet has sold more than two million units in the U.S., racked up more than 150 million YouTube views and amassed a diehard following (dubbed Panheads) whose members number over four million on Facebook alone. Their 2013 release RISE debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and No. 1 on the Billboard Rock and Christian charts, which led to a No. 1 radio hit for "American Noise" and "Sick Of It." RISE also gave Skillet their late night television debut on CONAN. RISE follows the band's 2009 blockbuster, Awake, which was recently certified platinum for sales in excess of one million copies in the U.S and debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. In addition, the record hit No. 1 on the iTunes® Top Albums Chart, garnered three Billboard Music Awards and spawned four hit singles including the No. 1 Active Rock smash and gold-certified “Awake & Alive,” the gold-certified "Hero," "It's Not Me It's You" and the platinum-certified "Monster." "Monster" lived up to its name, selling more than a million copies and hitting Top 5 at Active Rock radio (the first in a string of multiple Top 5 active rock hits), while its companion video has generated over 47 million YouTube views. Skillet was the only active rock band to achieve RIAA Platinum Certification in 2012, and was one of only three rock bands (the other two being Mumford & Sons and The Black Keys) to strike platinum in 2012. Skillet is made up of John Cooper, Korey Cooper, Jen Ledger and Seth Morrison.

[Get Connected with Skillet] 
Website // http://www.skillet.com 
Twitter // http://twitter.com/skilletmusic 
Facebook // http://www.facebook.com/skilletmusic 
YouTube // http://www.youtube.com/skilletband

About LeCrae
What began as a way to reach the youth in a nearby juvenile detention center, through hip-hop, eventually became chart topping success as a critically acclaimed rapper, with over 1.8 million collective album sales. In the past two years, Lecrae has released 3 genre-redefining projects. He dropped his first mixtape in 2012, Church Clothes, hosted by Don Canon, which went double platinum on Datpiff, garnering over 500,000 downloads and debuting #10 on iTunes as an EP. Following that, in probably what was a major upset in Gospel music, Lecrae made history as the first hip-hop artist to win a GRAMMY® award in the Best Gospel Album category for his sixth studio album Gravity.  Gravity debuted at #3 on the Billboard Top 200, #1 on the Rap Charts, and #1 Independent with over 73K units sold during its first week. The album featured key production from GRAMMY® award winning producers DJ Khalil and Heat Academy. He also celebrated video premieres of his singles "Mayday," "Fakin'," and “Confessions” on BET and MTV.  Along with the biggest win of his career, Lecrae was also nominated for a Billboard Award, BET Award and Soul Train Award, and won a Dove Award. Lecrae closed out an incredible 2013 on several major tours, including Rock the Bells, and put out his second mixtape, Church Clothes 2, which has sold over 40K units after being downloaded over 150,000 times. 

[Get Connected with Lecrae]
Website //http://www.lecrae.com
Twitter //  http://twitter.com/lecrae
Facebook // http://www.facebook.com/Lecrae
YouTube // http://www.youtube.com/user/reachrecords
iTunes // http://smarturl.it/lecraeitunes

###

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

Tour Produced By Awakening Events
501.514.1717
http://www.awakeningevents.com/

NEEDTOBREATHE Announces First Leg of North American Headlining Tour

CONAN performance confirmed for February 20

New album Rivers In The Wasteland out April 15
 

Nashville, Tenn. (February 18, 2014) – NEEDTOBREATHE is excited to announce the first leg of an extensive North American headlining tour in support of their anticipated new album Rivers In the Wasteland, out April 15 on Atlantic/Word Records. On May 1, the Charleston, SC rock band will kick off their tour which will see them visit some of the country’s most notable venues, including The Wiltern and The Fillmore, as well as perform at a number of summer festivals including Ichthus Festival, Creation NE and DownPour Festival. Glassnote Records artist Foy Vance will be direct support on this leg.

To give fans a sneak peek into these new songs live, NEEDTOBREATHE will return to CONAN on February 20 to perform their Triple A single “The Heart.” Listen to the track here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LIsvzMwDvwM

Rivers In the Wasteland is the follow up to the band’s acclaimed album The Reckoning, a collection of timeless American rock and roll that caught the attention of many including The New York Times who simply said “this gifted band makes anthemic Southern rock” and Entertainment Weekly who applauds the band’s “arena muscle.”

With non-stop touring and gripping performances, the band’s powerful live show - one which NPR praises as “intriguing and vivacious” - has helped build a dedicated fan base, one that allows them to play in front of thousands of people across the country. NEEDTOBREATHE will spend all of 2014 on the road!

“Difference Maker” continues to impact Christian radio, breaking into the Top 20 on the Hot AC/CHR chart last week and continuing to climb up the National Christian Audience chart.

Rivers In the Wasteland was co-produced by the band with the help of various producers including Joe Chiccarelli (My Morning Jacket), Kevin Augunas (The Lumineers), Ed Cash (Chris Tomlin, TobyMac) and Jerrod Bettis (Adele). Pre-order Rivers In The Wasteland now and receive the new song “State I’m In,” along with two other instant grat tracks – “The Heart” and “Difference Maker.” Visit needtobreathe.com to purchase.

Tour Dates (more to be announced)
5/1/14 - Gillioz Theatre - Springfield, MO *
5/2/14 - Brady Theater - Tulsa, OK *
5/3-4/14 - Suburbia Music Festival - Plano, TX
5/5/14 - Marquee Theatre - Phoenix, AZ
5/6/14 - The Wiltern - Los Angeles, CA
5/7/14 - The Fillmore - San Francisco, CA *
5/10/14 - The Neptune - Seattle, WA
5/11/14 - Vogue Theatre - Vancouver, BC *
5/14/14 - The Fillmore - Denver, CO *
5/15/14 - Uptown Theater - Kansas City, MO *
5/16-18/14 - Hangout Festival - Gulf Shores, AL
5/31/14 - The Tabernacle - Atlanta, GA *
6/1/14 - The Tabernacle - Atlanta, GA *
6/3/14 - Stage AE - Pittsburgh, PA
6/4-7/14 - Ichthus Festival - Lexington, KY
6/5/14 - House of Blues - Cleveland, OH *
6/6/14 - Murat Theatre - Indianapolis, IN *
6/8/14 - Pabst Theater - Milwaukee, WI
6/10/14 - Simon Estes - Des Moines, IA
6/12/14 - Skyway Theatre - Minneapolis, MN *
6/13/14 - The Pageant - St. Louis, MO *
6/14/14 - House of Blues - Chicago, IL *
6/15/14 - House of Blues - Chicago, IL *
6/17/14 - Town Ballroom - Buffalo, NY *
6/19/14 - Danforth Theatre - Toronto, ON
6/20/14 - The Fillmore - Detroit, MI *
6/21/14 - Meijer Gardens - Grand Rapids, MI *
6/25-28/14 - Creation NE - Mt. Union, PA
8/16-18/14 - DownPour Festival - Great Falls, MT

* With Foy Vance

About NEEDTOBREATHE
NEEDTOBREATHE is an American Rock ‘n’ Roll Band from South Carolina, effortlessly woven from the musical traditions and faith of their upbringing in the Deep South of the United States. Made up of brothers Bear Rinehart (vocals, guitar) and Bo Rinehart (guitar, vocals), as well as Seth Bolt (bass, vocals), the band hit their big break in 2005 when they signed to Atlantic/Lava/Word Records. The career to follow would include four full studio albums, chart-topping cross-genre success, multiple headlining tours and media coverage on CONAN, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Late Show with David Letterman, MTV, FOX and much more. The band’s fifth studio album, Rivers In The Wasteland, will be available April 15, 2014.

[Get Connected with NEEDTOBREATHE]
Website // needtobreathe.com
Facebook // facebook.com/needtobreathe
Twitter // twitter.com/needtobreathe
YouTube // youtube.com/NEEDTOBREATHEVIDEOS

###

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Ryan Anderson
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
ryan@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

PHOTO RELEASE: Steven Curtis Chapman Gives Career Defining Performance at Carnegie Hall in New York City

Nashville, Tenn. (February 18, 2013) – Five-time GRAMMY® winner and highly acclaimed singer-songwriter Steven Curtis Chapman gave the performance of a lifetime earlier this month at one of the most famous concert venues in the world, Carnegie Hall in New York City. Performing with The True North Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Camp Kirkland, and The New American Chorus made up of choral singers and fans from across the country, Chapman performed moving renditions of some of his most iconic songs, as well as hits from his latest record The Glorious Unfolding.

"People asked me if it was a dream come true to play Carnegie Hall? I have to say as a young man growing up in Paducah, Kentucky, I never even thought to dream that big," said Chapman. "It was a humbling and deeply moving experience and a night I will never forget. I'm so grateful to the choir that joined me, Camp Kirkland, Tom Grassi, Roy Hayes, Brian Green, the orchestra, my band and others that helped me put the night together."

Photo Credit: True North Presents

Photo Credit: True North Presents

Chapman launched the next leg of "The Glorious Unfolding Tour" last weekend featuring special guests The Afters and Josh Wilson. For more information on tour dates and tickets, visit http://stevencurtischapman.com/tour.

About Steven Curtis Chapman
Steven Curtis Chapman has sold nearly eleven million records including two RIAA certified platinum albums and eight RIAA certified gold albums. Along with his five GRAMMY® awards and 17 nominations, Chapman has won an American Music Award, has recorded 48 No. 1 U.S. radio hits and been awarded 58 Dove Awards, more than any other artist to date. Since his recording career began in 1987, Chapman has recorded seventeen projects. He has performed at the White House and has appeared on multiple national programs via CBS, NBC, ABC, CNN, MSNBC, CMT, FOX News, the Hallmark Channel and E!, including Good Morning America, Larry King Live, Fox & Friends, Huckabee, CBS Sunday Morning, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and more. Chapman and his wife Mary Beth created Show Hope after bringing their first adopted daughter, Shaohannah, home from China in 2001. The ministry’s goal is to raise awareness about orphan care as well as to help families reduce the financial barrier of adoption. Now celebrating its 10th year of service, Show Hope has provided adoption grants to more than 4,000 families wishing to adopt orphans from around the world. Visit www.ShowHope.org.

[Get Connected With Steven Curtis Chapman]
Website // www.stevencurtischapman.com
Facebook // www.facebook.com/stevencurtischapman
Twitter // www.twitter.com/StevenCurtis

###

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Ryan Anderson
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
ryan@themcollective.com
615.591.7989
www.themcollective.com

K-LOVE Announces 12th Annual Caribbean Cruise Featuring Casting Crowns, Mandisa, Newsboys and More

Presented by World Hope and Produced by Premier Vacation and Events, Cruise to Set Sail January 13-17, 2015
 

Nashville, Tenn. (February 11, 2014) - Nothing could be more inviting during a cold winter than sunshine, relaxation and incredible entertainment. K-LOVE, along with World Hope and Premier Vacation and Events promise just that during the 12th Annual 2015 K-LOVE cruise. The brand new MSC Divina ship will set sail from Miami, FL on January 13, 2015 and hit three ports of call (Freeport, Nassau and private island, Half-Moon Cay) through January 17th.

"Hosting the K-LOVE Cruise for over 10 years is our privilege!” remarked David Pierce, COO of K-LOVE.  “The friendships that are made, the people who are refreshed, and the impact of seeing God at work in so many lives on board, makes this an amazing getaway! We are thankful for the artists, listeners and friends who come together to make the K-LOVE Cruise really something special."

Throughout the trip, passengers are invited to join their favorite K-LOVE artists, including Casting Crowns, Mandisa, Newsboys, Laura Story, Building 429 and more. K-LOVE personalities will be on the ship as well, along with incredible speakers like New York Times best-selling author and speaker Lysa TerKeurst.  

Tickets for the cruise are on sale now with prices starting at under $90/month. To purchase and find out more information please visit www.klovecruise.com.

“God was certainly present and moving aboard this years K-LOVE cruise,” said Mike Novak, K-LOVE President/CEO. “I’m looking forward to our 2015 cruise on a bigger ship, exciting ports and more great Christian music and time to come together with friends and family. You better claim your cabin right now and see you next year!"

About K-LOVE
K-LOVE creates compelling media designed to inspire and encourage people to develop a meaningful relationship with Christ. K-LOVE is listener supported and delivers positive, encouraging contemporary Christian music through its 446 signals across 47 states.  For more information visit: www.klove.com

About Premier Vacation and Events
Premier Vacation and Events has been responsible for producing unique, family-friendly vacations for over eleven years. With such events as the K-LOVE Cruise, Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise, Music Boat, Girls Getaway and Illuminate Vacation just to name a few, they will be host to the Duck Commander Cruise this summer. From branded events to corporate getaways, PREMIER is leading the industry in innovative vacation events.

About World Hope
World Hope is a non-profit missions organization that identifies places on the planet that are most in need of urgent care, and then seeks to bring to them the Hope found only in Christ.  World Hope has built Hope Centers in India, The Philippines, Nicaragua, Haiti, and our flagship Hope Center in the slums outside Nairobi, Kenya.  Our newest project is our first domestic Hope Center in Detroit, Michigan, which will open this year.  All of our projects are centered around a church and will include ministries such as feeding centers, medical clinics, school, adult education, and sports programs.  For more information, we invite you to visit us online at WeAreWorldHope.com.

###

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
615.591.7989
www.themcollective.com

Casting Crowns Continues to Bring 'THRIVE' to Life; Mark Hall Releases New Book Out Today, February 11

Casting Crowns | Thrive

THRIVE by Mark Hall available today

Casting Crowns performing on Fox & Friends

Casting Crowns interviews with Billboard

Casting Crowns at Livestream

From their "Month of Giving" to a surprise secret show to performances on Sirius Radio, Billboard and FOX & Friends, momentum grows for 'THRIVE'
 

Nashville, Tenn. (February 11, 2014) – Multi-platinum selling group, Casting Crowns continues to bring THRIVE to life, wrapping up a month of visits and giving back to fans across the country. Accompanying the recent release of the group's seventh studio record (THRIVE), which debuted in the Top 10 on the Billboard Top 200 Chart, comes Mark Hall's newest book on Zondervan, "Thrive - Digging Deep, Reaching Out" available today, February 11. This is Hall's fourth book to date and discusses the critical inner challenge that we are meant to more than just survive life - we are called to thrive. Each chapter threads together this impactful message, adding Hall's signature style of weaving stories with powerful tools for application.

The release of "Thrive - Digging Deep, Reaching Out," comes off the heels of a jam-packed, whirlwind month for Casting Crowns. Beginning in the month of January, Casting Crowns launched their"Month of Giving" with opportunities for them to give back to fans in big and small ways. The roots didn't stop there as the band traveled across the country to multiple cities performing acoustic sets (including a Secret Show in Dallas, TX) and visiting friends such asThe Harvest Show, Live at Studio B, Moody Radio, 

Rick & Bubba and more. Also adding to the momentum of 'THRIVE,' several members of the band surprised shoppers at local retailers with a copy of the new record.

Last week, the band made a trip to New York City where they did special performances and interviews with Sirius Radio, Livestream.com, 

Billboard and FOX Radio. Wrapping up their NYC run, Casting Crowns made their national television debut of their song "Thrive" on the highly rated morning show, "FOX & Friends."

View their FOX & Friends performances here:

"Thrive" and "House of Their Dreams"

Following the sea of praises on the new record comes another flood of applause from critics and fans alike for "Thrive - Digging Deep, Reaching Out":

"Consider Mark Hall’s book a dependable resource to inspire a well-rooted, far-reaching growth spurt among students."
- Crosswalk.com

"The book gives stories and testimonies from the young people Hall pastors, and gives examples of how the principles set out in the book can be applied to real life situations...It's an important message, and one that is delivered with grace and humility."
- Christian Today

"Casting Crowns lead singer Mark Hall is delivering up plenty for your mind to reflect on...you’ll hear words of wisdom from Hall’s experience and a depth of theological encouragement for your soul."
- Mustard Seed Thoughts Blog

Beginning Feb. 20, Casting Crowns will embark on their national tour,"The Thrive Tour," which features Laura Story and for KING & COUNTRY. For a complete list of tour dates, visit: https://www.castingcrowns.com/tour.

[Get Connected with Casting Crowns]
Website: www.castingcrowns.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/castingcrowns
Twitter: www.twitter.com/castingcrowns
Mark Hall's
Twitter: www.twitter.com/markhallCC

Fox & Friends to World Premiere TobyMac's "Speak Life" Music Video on February 11

GRAMMY® winner also set to perform No. 1 track on cable's No. 1 Morning Show 

VEVO set for online premiere February 12

Nashville, Tenn. (February 10, 2014) – With a powerful message of hope and love, the impact of TobyMac's No. 1 song "Speak Life" has been immeasurable. On February 11, cable's top-rated morning show, Fox & Friends, will world premiere the music video for the track and TobyMac, along with his DiverseCity band, will perform the GRAMMY®-nominated song live. VEVO is supporting the online premiere of the video on Wednesday, February 12. "Speak Life" was written by TobyMac along with Jamie Moore and Ryan Stevenson and is off his GRAMMY®-award winning and No. 1 Billboard 200 record, EYE ON IT. Catch a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the video here. 

In less than 15 months, TobyMac has received two GRAMMY® award nominations, two Billboard Music Awards for Top Christian Artist and Top Christian Album, his first American Music Award for Favorite Artist in the Contemporary/Inspirational category, multiple Dove Awards including "Artist of the Year," and the K-LOVE Fan Award for “Artist of the Year,” in addition to sweeping the 2013 Australian Music Awards.

The past couple months TobyMac has been touring the country on his "Hits Deep Tour." The national tour has been selling out venues and playing to packed houses including an emotional set at the Madison Square Garden theatre in New York City. Beginning February 2014, TobyMac will kick off the second leg of the “Hits Deep Tour.” The spring line-up will include Brandon Heath, Matt Maher, Mandisa, Matthew West and Capital Kings. For a complete list of tour dates, visit: http://tobymac.com/tour.

About TobyMac
With over 11 million units in career sales, TobyMac's career continues on the fast track. His most recent project, EYE ON IT, garnered him the GRAMMY® Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album and the highest chart debut of his solo career landing at No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200 and topping the iTunes® Overall and Christian sales charts. The project made TobyMac one of only four artists to ever debut atop the Billboard Top 200 with a Christian music album. His previous four solo projects have received RIAA Gold certification and his live DVD, Alive & Transported, is certified platinum by the RIAA and received a GRAMMY® award. His 2009 album Tonight received GRAMMY® nods for Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album and Best Contemporary Christian Song. In less than 15 months, TobyMac has received two GRAMMY® awards, two Billboard Music Awards for Top Christian Artist and Top Christian Album, his first American Music Award for Favorite Artist in the Contemporary/Inspirational category, Dove Awards for "Artist of the Year," "Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year," "Recorded Music Packaging of the Year," "Short Form Video of the Year," KLOVE Music Awards for “Artist of the Year” and swept the 2013 Australian Music Awards.

[Get Connected with TobyMac]
Website // http://www.tobymac.com
Twitter // https://twitter.com/therealtobymac
Facebook // http://www.facebook.com/tobymac
YouTube // http://www.youtube.com/tobymacmusic
iTunes // http://toby.cta.gs/02r

###

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

GRAMMY® Nominee Jamie Grace Doubles Street Week Performance on Sophomore Album Ready To Fly

Nashville, Tenn. (February 5, 2014) – GRAMMY® nominee and Best New Artist Dove Award winner Jamie Grace is celebrating an impressive street week performance for her album Ready To Fly which released last week. The sophomore effort more than doubled the performance of her debut record, Hold Me, and was declared a “coming of age record… preparing to do life cranked all the way up to eleven” by Worship Leader Magazine. 

Media outlets and personalities are buzzing about the new record. Sherri Shepherd, co-host of ABC's The View, tweeted a shoutout to Jamie Grace and her new album Ready To Fly earlier this week, calling her the "real deal." 

Jamie’s segment with 700 Club Interactive aired last week on ABC Family to viewers across the country. After performing a bit from her humbling track “Little Ol’ Me,” Jamie Grace chronicled the physical and mental conditions she’s endured on the way to becoming a GRAMMY®-nominated artist, including her battle with Tourette syndrome, OCD and anxiety. To watch the segment, visit: http://www.cbn.com/tv/3113198817001. 

Jamie continues to thrill audiences as a part of the ever popular “The Roadshow 2014” tour alongside the likes of Skillet, Third Day, Royal Tailor, Andy Mineo and more. To view her complete tour schedule, visit www.jamiegrace.com. 

About Jamie Grace
22-year old singer-songwriter Jamie Grace made a remarkable entrance with the help of multiple GRAMMY® winner TobyMac who signed her to Gotee Records. During the time of the release of her debut project, One Song at a Time, Jamie balanced her time between her career as a touring artist and college. While her album propelled her to win her first GMA Dove Award for New Artist of the Year and receive her first GRAMMY® and Billboard Music Award nominations, she also performed on the Women of Faith's REVOLVE tour, TobyMac's HITS Deep Tour and the highly attended 44-city Winter Jam Tour Spectacular. Hailing from outside of Atlanta, she was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome at age 11 and has since traveled the country sharing her story and faith through music and speaking. Jamie Grace has since graduated from Point University with a degree in children’s ministry. Her sophomore album Ready To Fly is available now. 

About Gotee Records 
In 1992 a production team of three talented guys with diverse tastes shared a love for music. Producers Joey Elwood and Todd Collins, along with Grammy-winning artist TobyMac, launched Gotee Records in 1994 after unsuccessfully finding a label deal for the R&B trio Out of Eden. With a steady focus on artistry, the new label expanded to reflect the diverse interests of its founders. Within 12 months, Christafari, GRITS, and Johnny Q. Public were signed, easily representing four different music categories: R&B, reggae, rap and rock. In the 20 years since Gotee's founding as a record label, it has launched the careers of Relient K, Jennifer Knapp, Sonicflood and more recently, Jamie Grace, Capital Kings, Finding Favour and Ryan Stevenson. The present day in the Gotee story is much like the label's early days. Through all the changes in a tumultuous music industry, the boutique label's independent spirit is maintained through a steady focus on artist development and diversity. 

[Get Connected with Jamie Grace] 
Website // www.jamiegrace.com 
Facebook // www.facebook.com/jamiegraceh 
Twitter // www.twitter.com/jamiegraceh 
YouTube // www.youtube.com/jgracepro 
Instagram // www.instagram.com/jamiegraceh

Multi-Platinum Selling Group Casting Crowns Digs Deep with 'THRIVE,' Out Today

THRIVE debuts at No. 2 on iTunes® Overall Album Chart on street day; Media blitz includes national TV appearances on FOX & FRIENDS and WGN-TV, Livestream and more; "THRIVE" book, penned by Mark Hall, available February 11

Nashville, Tenn. (January 28, 2014) – Echoing in the title track to Casting Crowns' seventh studio record - out today, January 28 - are the lyrics: "It's time for us to more than just survive, we were made to THRIVE." An understatement for beloved multi-platinum selling group who holds the position as Billboard's top selling act in Christian music since 2007 and wrapped up 2013 with three GRAMMY® nods, a RIAA 2x multi-Platinum certification, multiple RIAA Gold certifications and more. Casting Crowns begins the year with the release of THRIVE, their new album that includes their infectious No. 2 radio single, "All You Ever Wanted." The new record debuted today at No. 2 on the overall iTunes® album chart and marks the band's latest studio project in over two years, following the success of Come to the Well which debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard Top 200. Leading up to today, Casting Crowns streamed the record exclusively on iTunes®, adding them into a select group of Christian acts to have their album on First Play. 

After kicking off street week with a CD release party at their home church, Eagles Landing, Casting Crowns shows no signs of slowing down. The band continued the celebration with a surprise visit to Dallas last Thursday for their first ever "Secret Show." The event was at capacity and treated guests with a special live run through of the new record. This Friday, January 31, Casting Crowns will perform the record's power ballad, "Broken Together" on Chicago's nationally syndicated WGN Morning News and on Saturday, February 8th, they will perform on the highly rated morning program, FOX & FRIENDS. 

Also included in their events and appearances are: WJIE Louisville (1/28), ShineFM (1/29), LeSea's The Harvest Show (LIVE on 1/30 and 1/31), LeSea's Live at Studio B (1/30), PulseFM (1/30), Moody Radio's This is the Day and Chris Fabry Live (1/31), The Rick & Bubba Show (LIVE on 2/3), JoyFM (2/3), American Family Radio (LIVE on 2/4), WAFJ Augusta (2/4), Sirius Radio (2/6) and more. 

On Thursday, February 6, Casting Crowns will host a special Livestream Event LIVE from New York, giving fans an up-close and personal interaction the band. The event includes a live performance and fan chat with Casting Crowns. To participate in the event, visit www.Lifestream.com. 

Fans aren't the only ones buzzing with excitement about THRIVE. The stream of media continues to pile in on street day with an overflow of high praises. Check out just a few of the glowing remarks on THRIVE: 

"The group’s seventh studio album opens with its anthemic title track, a cheerleader-worthy number that is rousing radio gold...Mark Hall & Co. managed to make an album that will satisfy longtime fans while throwing in a few surprises for the skeptics – no easy feat." 
- Rhapsody 

"Casting Crowns showcases its immense range, delivering Christian testimony through an array of styles, each marked by the bands' contemplative luster." 
- iTunes 

"The chart-topping Georgia septet forges ahead with another top quality set of thoughtful pop, rock and worship songs, each one inspiring both weighed down and fired up believers." 
- Crosswalk

"These are some of the best songs I've heard... you'll want to replay this album over and over. Thrive is sure to be one of the year's best.
- New Release Tuesday 

"This is a collection of songs that aim for the heart; Hall and his team has never been more transparent and compelling than this their seventh time charm." 
- Hallels

Forming more than a decade ago, Casting Crowns' message of hope has resonated with people around the globe, with total album sales surpassing 8 million. Following the release of their record is Mark Hall's newest book on Zondervan, "Thrive – Digging Deep, Reaching Out" available on February 11. To pre-order the book, click here. 

Next month Casting Crowns will embark on their national tour, "The Thrive Tour," which features Laura Story and for KING & COUNTRY. For a complete list of tour dates, visit: https://www.castingcrowns.com/tour.

[Get Connected with Casting Crowns] 
Website: www.castingcrowns.com 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/castingcrowns 
Twitter: www.twitter.com/castingcrowns 
Mark Hall's Twitter: www.twitter.com/markhallCC

MercyMe Ushers in New Era with Eighth Studio Record Welcome To The New Available April 8

Lead single “Shake” picks up 75 adds at Christian Radio in first week, music video receives nearly 700,000 views

Nashville, Tenn. (January 15, 2014) – Ending 2013 on a high note with the release of their energetic single, “Shake,” GRAMMY®-nominated, American Music Award and Dove Award winning band MercyMe carries the enthusiasm into 2014 as they announce their eighth studio album Welcome To The New, available April 8, 2014 from Fair Trade. Collaborating with producers David Garcia and Ben Glover (TobyMac, Mandisa), Welcome To The New represents a shift in tone for the multi-platinum selling group. 

“At 41-years-old, I feel like I am just starting to grasp who I am in Christ,” says lead singer Bart Millard. “I grew up in a somewhat legalistic environment where the harder you try, the better God likes you. It was about two years ago a dear friend of mine reminded me I cannot do enough great things to make Christ love me more than He already does. Not to mention, I can't sabotage this relationship and be taken from His hand. In other words, all the work was truly done on the cross and I cannot mess it up! This is not a new season in my life, it is my life! Everything has changed from this point on, and I want to tell this to anyone who will listen and be the first to welcome them to the new!” 

Last fall, MercyMe released “Shake,” their first single from Welcome To The New. The song was an instant hit with radio audiences, gaining adds from 75 stations including K-LOVE, Air 1, Salem Music Network, KLTY/Dallas and more, while shooting up into the Top 20 on the Billboard National Christian Audience Chart.

The single's impressive momentum has translated well for the “Shake” music video. Filmed on the downtown streets of Huntsville, Ala. with dancers from the North Alabama Dance Center and over 100 local extras, the high-energy, choreographed music video has been viewed nearly 700,000 times over several video platforms. Fans of the band have been buzzing about the video, using the hashtag “#MMShake” to share their own videos and responses via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 

The album will be available for pre-order at Lifeway, Family Christian Stores and other participating retailers on January 28, as well as iTunes® on February 18. 

About MercyMe
Since their debut in 2001, GRAMMY®-nominated, American Music Award and multiple Dove Award winners MercyMe have sold over 6 million units in CD and DVD sales, garnered 25 No. 1 multi-format Christian radio singles and four consecutive mainstream radio hits with “I Can Only Imagine,” (No. 4 AC/Top 25 on Top 40/Hot AC), “Here With Me” (No. 4 AC), “Homesick” (Top 10 AC), and “So Long Self.” In 2009, Billboard named MercyMe's "Word Of God Speak" the No. 1 Song of The Decade and the group the No. 1 Christian Songs Artist of the Decade, with an additional No. 1 as the Christian AC Song Artist of The Decade as one of the industry's most notable talents. MercyMe made history as “I Can Only Imagine” surpassed 1 million digital downloads, making it the first song in Christian music to go platinum in the digital domain. MercyMe has sold out venues across the nation, including Radio City Music Hall, and has appeared on The Tonight Show, CNN, Fox New Channel's Fox & Friends, ABC News, CBS This Morning and in the pages of Entertainment Weekly, The New York Times, USA Today, Billboard and more. Their eighth studio album, Welcome To The New, will be available on April 8, 2014. 

[Get Connected with MercyMe] 
Website // www.mercyme.org 
Facebook // www.facebook.com/mercyme 
Twitter // www.twitter.com/mercyme 
"Shake" iTunes // http://smarturl.it/MMShake 
"Shake" Amazon MP3 // http://smarturl.it/MMShake2

###

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

NEEDTOBREATHE Announces New Album Rivers In The Wasteland Set For an April 15 Release

Paste Magazine premieres general market lead single “The Heart” and catches up with the band; “Difference Maker” most added track at Christian Hot AC/CHR this week

Nashville, Tenn. (January 14, 2014) – NEEDTOBREATHE is proud to announce the release of their upcoming album Rivers In The Wasteland. Set for an April 15 release on Atlantic Records/Word, Rivers In The Wasteland is the follow up to their acclaimed album The Reckoning, which saw the band spend over two years on the road in support of a collection of anthemic rock that caught the attention of The New York Times, NPR, Entertainment Weekly and USA Today. 

Paste Magazine caught up with the band to talk about the new album. Fans can also get a first listen to the record’s mainstream single “The Heart,” a stomping number imbued with an infectious sense of hopeful anticipation. Read and listen here: http://www.pastemagazine.com/blogs/av/2014/01/song-premiere-needtobreathe---the-heart.html 

“Difference Maker” from Rivers In The Wasteland, which the band performed to close out the 2013 Dove Awards, has impacted radio in a big way this week as the most added track at Christian Hot AC/CHR and the third most added at Christian AC. 

The band’s relentless touring saw them captivate music fans at festivals such as Bonnaroo and Austin City Limits, along with standout performances on Letterman, Fallon, Leno and Conan. However, this extensive touring is where the musicians began grappling with both significant inner turmoil and the external pressure created by notoriety. For all three musicians, they had to take a well-deserved break and meditate on what each wanted NEEDTOBREATHE to be. After some time, the guys all agreed that the answer was to return to the band’s roots and find the anchor of musical simplicity. 

Rivers In The Wasteland - the sound of a band excited to reconnect with the idea of a fresh start - was co-produced by the band with the help of various producers including Joe Chiccarelli, Kevin Augunas, Ed Cash and Jerrod Bettis, and was recorded at the band’s own Plantation Studios in Charleston, Fairfax Recordings (formally Sound City Studios) in Los Angeles and Blackbird Studios in Nashville. 

“We’ve come through some rough moments and some amazing moments,” says guitarist & vocalist Bo Rinehart. “We’re the most energized we’ve ever been. The band is young again. We’ve got a new sense of purpose and we believe in what we’re doing. We just fell back in love with the idea of what we get to do.”

Rivers In The Wasteland is now available for pre-order and comes with two instant grat tracks – “The Heart” and “Difference Maker.” Visit needtobreathe.com to purchase. 

Stay tuned for news on the band’s 2014 headlining tour! 

About NEEDTOBREATHE
NEEDTOBREATHE is an American Rock ‘n’ Roll Band from South Carolina, effortlessly woven from the musical traditions and faith of their upbringing in the Deep South of the United States. Made up of brothers Bear Rinehart (vocals, guitar) and Bo Rinehart (guitar, vocals), as well as Seth Bolt (bass, vocals), the band hit their big break in 2005 when they signed to Atlantic/Lava/Word Records. The career to follow would include four full studio albums, chart-topping cross-genre success, multiple headlining tours and media coverage on CONAN, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Late Show with David Letterman, MTV, FOX and much more. The band’s fifth studio album, Rivers In The Wasteland, will be available April 15, 2014. 

[Get Connected with NEEDTOBREATHE] 
Website // needtobreathe.com 
Facebook // facebook.com/needtobreathe 
Twitter // twitter.com/needtobreathe 
YouTube // youtube.com/NEEDTOBREATHEVIDEOS

###

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Ryan Anderson
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
ryan@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

Skillet Returns to U.S. Soil with Another No. 1 Song After Multiple Sold Out Russian Dates and Winning Over Fans on European Tour with Nickelback

GRAMMY®-nominated and platinum selling rockers announce co-headline U.S. Spring Tour with Third Day and all-star line up including Mandisa, Brandon Heath, Jamie Grace and more

Nashville, Tenn. (December 19, 2013) - Platinum and GRAMMY®-nominated rockers Skillet are back on U.S. soil after firmly making their mark overseas following a massive European fall tour with Nickelback where crowds demanded encores, and six back-to-back sold out headline shows in Russia, including over 6,000 screaming fans in Moscow. 

Just as the band boarded flights from Kiev, Ukraine to the U.S. they heard the news that their current single from their best-seller RISE (Atlantic/Word), “Not Gonna Die” held onto the No. 1 spot on the Christian Rock charts for the third week, is Top 20 and climbing on mainstream Active Rock (their sixth consecutive Active Rock hit), and their Hot AC single, “Fire and Fury” is Top 10. 

After such an extended time of international touring, Skillet is looking forward to co-headlining The Roadshow, which kicks off January 9, 2014 in Sacramento, CA., and have also just announced they’ll continue to tour with co-headliners Third Day on 20 more domestic dates throughout the spring. Starting February 27 in Toledo, OH., Skillet and Third Day will hit the road with an all star line-up including Mandisa, Brandon Heath, Jamie Grace, Peter Furler and We As Human. 

Skillet/Third Day 2014 Tour Dates 
(More dates to be added, dates are subject to change.)
Feb. 27 - Toledo, OH
Feb. 28 - Indianapolis, IN
Mar. 1 - Jackson, MS
Mar. 2 - Cape Cirardeau, MO
Mar. 6 - Grand Rapids, MI
Mar. 7 - Columbus, OH
Mar. 9 - Moline, IL
Mar. 13 - Wichita Falls, KS
Mar. 14 - Tyler, TX
Mar. 15 - Tulsa, OK
Mar. 20 - Johnstown, PA
Mar. 21 - Hampton, VA
Mar. 22 - Reading, PA
Mar. 23 - Cleveland, OH
Mar. 27 - Greeneville, SC
Mar. 28 - Pensacola, FL
Mar. 29 - Baton Rouge, LA 

About Skillet
Over the course of the past few years, GRAMMY® nominated and platinum selling rock band Skillet has sold more than two million units in the U.S., racked up more than 150 million YouTube views and amassed a diehard following (dubbed Panheads) whose members number over four million on Facebook alone. Their 2013 release RISE debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and No. 1 on the Billboard Rock and Christian charts, which led to a No. 1 radio hit for "American Noise" and "Sick Of It." RISE also gave Skillet their late night television debut on CONAN. 

RISE follows the band's 2009 blockbuster, Awake, which was recently certified platinum for sales in excess of one million copies in the U.S and debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. In addition, the record hit No. 1 on the iTunes® Top Albums Chart, garnered three Billboard Music Awards and spawned four hit singles including the No. 1 Active Rock smash and gold-certified “Awake & Alive,” the gold-certified "Hero," "It's Not Me It's You" and the platinum-certified "Monster." "Monster" lived up to its name, selling more than a million copies and hitting Top 5 at Active Rock radio (the first in a string of multiple Top 5 active rock hits), while its companion video has generated over 47 million YouTube views. Skillet was the only active rock band to achieve RIAA Platinum Certification in 2012, and was one of only three rock bands (the other two being Mumford & Sons and The Black Keys) to strike platinum in 2012. Skillet is made up of John Cooper, Korey Cooper, Jen Ledger and Seth Morrison.

[Get Connected with Skillet] 
Website // http://www.skillet.com 
Twitter // http://twitter.com/skilletmusic 
Facebook // http://www.facebook.com/skilletmusic 
YouTube // http://www.youtube.com/skilletband

###

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

Steven Curtis Chapman Celebrates Successful Media Run with Fox & Friends, 700 Club and The Sean Hannity Radio Show

"Love Take Me Over" gives Chapman 48th career No. 1 at Christian radio; Chapman to join other celebrities in Walt Disney World’s Candlelight Processional

Nashville, Tenn. (December 17, 2013) – Five-time GRAMMY® winner and highly acclaimed singer-songwriter Steven Curtis Chapman wrapped a successful media run over the weekend in support of his new album The Glorious Unfolding, his Christmas album JOY and his GRAMMY®-nominated single “Love Take Me Over.” 

Chapman first appeared on “The Sean Hannity Show,” the second most listened to radio talk show in America. Chapman later performed his hit single “Love Take Me Over,” on CBN’s 700 Club. The song was recently nominated for a GRAMMY® Award for Best Contemporary Christian Song and hit No. 1 on the Christian AC Indicator chart, giving Chapman his 48th No. 1 single. Wrapping the weekend with dual performances on the highly rated talk show Fox & Friends, Chapman performed “Love Take Me Over” live on air and his cherished Christmas hit, “Christmas Time Again,” on the After the Show Show. 

Continuing in the spirit of Christmas, Chapman will attend Walt Disney World’s Candlelight Processional, a cherished celebration of Christmas and the Christmas story as told by celebrity narrators, a 50-piece orchestra and a mass choir. Joining the ranks of Gary Sinise, Neil Patrick Harris, Trace Adkins, Whoopi Goldberg and Amy Grant, Chapman will share the Christmas story December 23-25, 2013 in the month-long celebration. 

Chapman will launch his 2014 edition of "The Glorious Unfolding Tour" in February featuring special guests The Afters and Josh Wilson. For more information, visit www.stevencurtischapman.com. 

About Steven Curtis Chapman
Steven Curtis Chapman has sold nearly eleven million records including two RIAA certified platinum albums and eight RIAA certified gold albums. Along with his five GRAMMY® awards and 17 nominations, Chapman has won an American Award, has recorded 48 No. 1 U.S. radio hits and been awarded 58 Dove Awards, more than any other artist to date. Since his recording career began in 1987, Chapman has recorded seventeen projects. He has performed at the White House and has appeared on multiple national programs via CBS, NBC, ABC, CNN, MSNBC, CMT, FOX News, the Hallmark Channel and E!, including Good Morning America, Larry King Live, Fox & Friends, Huckabee, CBS Sunday Morning, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and more. Chapman and his wife Mary Beth created Show Hope after bringing their first adopted daughter, Shaohannah, home from China in 2001. The ministry’s goal is to raise awareness about orphan care as well as to help families reduce the financial barrier of adoption. Now celebrating its 10th year of service, Show Hope has provided adoption grants to more than 4,000 families wishing to adopt orphans from around the world. Visit www.ShowHope.org.

[Get Connected With Steven Curtis Chapman] 
Website // www.stevencurtischapman.com 
Facebook // www.facebook.com/stevencurtischapman 
Twitter // www.twitter.com/StevenCurtis

###

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

Owl City Has the Biggest Christmas Song at Christian Radio this Season

“Light of Christmas” (featuring TobyMac) is the most added song at Hot AC/CHR and leaps from No. 35 to No. 16 on NCA Chart

Nashville, Tenn. (December 11, 2013) - Just in time for Christmas, Owl City is getting an early gift as his first Christmas single, “Light of Christmas” (featuring TobyMac) is quickly becoming the biggest Christmas song at Christian radio this season. The song is featured on the brand new VeggieTales DVD, Merry Larry and the True Light of Christmas. 

Making a major impact on several Christian radio formats, "Light of Christmas" is the only new Christmas song, the most added song and the highest debut on the Hot AC/CHR chart, while also being the most added at Adult Contemporary (AC) Stations. Likewise, the track made the biggest leap of the week on the National Christian Audience (NCA) Chart, jumping from No. 35 to No. 16. 

“It's such a huge honor to be a part of the new VeggieTales DVD, and duet with TobyMac no less,” said Owl City’s Adam Young. “As a longtime fan of VeggieTales and TobyMac, this is truly a dream come true for me. I am overjoyed.” 

To catch a glimpse of the lyric video for “Light of Christmas” please visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23rntfd6qC8 

About Owl City 
Owl City first achieved worldwide success with his platinum selling major label debut Ocean Eyes (July 2009, Universal Republic). The album spawned the quadruple-platinum first single "Fireflies” – a No. 1 smash hit in 26 countries including the U.S. where it hit the top spot twice, and sold more than 12 million downloads worldwide. For his third album, The Midsummer Station (Republic, August 2012), Owl City’s Adam Young took a bold step forward and chose to work with co-writers and outside producers for the first time. He’s joined by Canadian pop sensation Carly Rae Jepsen on the incredibly infectious and successful lead single “Good Time,” which has been certified double platinum in the US. It was followed in late November 2012 by the second single from the new album “Shooting Star,” co-written by Young, Stargate, and Matthew Thiessen. Young's original composition "When Can I See You Again?" was featured in Disney Animation's hit film, Wreck-It Ralph, and "Shine Your Way" (which he produced and performed) is featured in Dreamworks Animation's new film, The Croods. Owl City finished a world headlining tour in support of The Midsummer Station in 2012 and was supporting Maroon 5 in North America in early 2013. 

[Get Connected with Owl City] 
Website // owlcitymusic.com 
Facebook // facebook.com/owlcity 
Twitter // twitter.com/owlcity

Steve Taylor Renews "License to Rock," Will Release New Album as “Steve Taylor & The Perfect Foil” After Successful Kickstarter Campaign

New band includes music veterans Jimmy Abegg, John Mark Painter and Peter Furler

Nashville, Tenn. (December 11, 2013) – Acclaimed filmmaker, writer, producer and recording artist Steve Taylor, director of the Blue Like Jazz movie, is taking a sabbatical from filmmaking to release his first studio record in 20 years with his new band, Steve Taylor & The Perfect Foil. Teaming up with veteran musicians Jimmy Abegg, John Mark Painter (Fleming and John) and Peter Furler (Newsboys), Taylor raised over 150% of the funds needed to record the album via a wildly successful Kickstarter campaign that features a video of his comical attempts to renew his "license to rock" at the DMV (Department of Music Veterans). 

Setting a goal to raise $40,000 in 28 days, Steve Taylor & The Perfect Foil raised the appropriate funds needed to record and produce the new album in only 36 hours. Because of the unexpected success, the band has added a variety of stretch goals onto their Kickstarter campaign in order to raise funds for their first tour as a band. Fans can pre-buy a ticket by adding the $25 cost to a specific backer award that they’ve already chosen. Depending on additional funds raised, the band is aiming towards a full U.S. tour with sights set towards a potential international leg. For more information on how to support the album and tour, visit: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/2128223578/steve-taylor-and-the-perfect-foil-new-album-really.

About Steve Taylor
Filmmaker Steve Taylor earned his “Renaissance Man” stripes (Prism Magazine) from a uniquely diverse body of work. As a recording artist he’s sold over one million albums worldwide, earned two Grammy nominations for Meltdown (1984) and Squint (1993), and made history as the only artist to twice win Billboard Music Video Awards for self-directed music videos. Steve was also lead singer/co-writer in the MCA-signed modern rock band Chagall Guevara. His producer resume includes the Platinum-certified Sixpence None The Richer (featuring the hits “Kiss Me” and “There She Goes”), three Gold-certified albums for Newsboys, and tracks for Relient K and Third Day. In 1997 Steve launched Squint Entertainment, whose worldwide success in the pop music arena was a first for a Nashville-based label. In addition to Sixpence, Squint’s roster included Chevelle, Burlap To Cashmere, and hip-hop collective L. A. Symphony. Steve’s parallel career as a filmmaker began in college and includes his video for Sixpence’s “Kiss Me,” the long-form Newsboys comedy Down Under The Big Top, and the award-winning Squint: Movies From The Soundtrack. 2006 marked the release of Steve’s debut as a feature film director/writer/producer with The Second Chance, an award-winning drama that was distributed theatrically by Sony Pictures Releasing. In 2012, Steve Taylor worked as the director/co-writer/producer on the film Blue Like Jazz, an adaptation of Donald Miller’s New York Times bestselling memoir. The film won the 2013 Wilbur Award for Best Feature Film, joining past winners The Help, Schindler’s List and Dead Man Walking. Steve lives in Nashville with his wife, the artist D.L. Taylor, and their daughter.