Sign Up To Keep Up To Date on CCM Concerts in the Philippines!

Keep Up To Date on Pinoy CCM Events
Name
Email

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Christian music news: UNCLE KRACKER, TOBYMAC AND EMILY WEST TO PERFORM AT IEBA CONFERENCE


Latest christian music:

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (September 24, 2009) - More artists have been added to the annual conference of the International Entertainment Buyers Association October 11-13 in Nashville. Uncle Kracker, TobyMac and Emily West will perform Monday, October 12 at the CAA showcase to an audience of live entertainment professionals in town for three days of performances, educational discussions and networking.

Other performers scheduled to appear at IEBA this year include: Bob Lefsetz, Dan Clark, Don Felder, The Wailers, Chubby Checker, Boyz II Men, Jamey Johnson, Randy Houser, Chris Young, Jessie James, Phil Vassar, Michelle Branch and Joey + Rory with many more stars announced soon. Special guest panelists include Marcie Allen of MAC Presents, Drew McGowan of Clorox Company, John Grady of Borman Entertainment, Mary Hilliard Harrington of The Greenroom, Derek C. Crownover of Crownover Tisinger, Lang Scott of Music City Networks and leading executives from MySpace, iLike and other social networking sites plus much more.

Space is limited, so register now for IEBA 2009 at www.ieba.org.

About IEBA and IEBA Honors
IEBA was founded in 1970 as a non-profit trade organization for talent buyers, concert promoters, agents, managers, artists and other related entertainment professionals. IEBA provides networking, showcasing and educational opportunities to strengthen relationships, foster growth and increase revenue for the live entertainment industry. IEBA is known for showcasing the best and brightest talent in all genres of music and all fields of entertainment--exposing buyers to the freshest acts for the buying season. IEBA is an intimate organization that makes a huge impact. IEBA pays tribute to the trailblazers of entertainment at the annual IEBA Honors ceremony. We salute those that have shaped where we are and those that continue to reinvent the entertainment industry. Past honorees have included: Loggins and Messina, ZZ Top, Ronnie Milsap, Patti Page, Loretta Lynn, Lou Rawls, Brenda Lee, Cheap Trick, Alice Cooper, Wayne Newton, Barbara Mandrell, Styx, Porter Wagoner, LeAnn Rimes and numerous others.
www.ieba.org

About Uncle Kracker
Is there anyone better to tell it like it is than one's kid? In January 2008, when Uncle Kracker began to write the songs that appear on his new album Happy Hour, it was his eight year-old daughter who suggested that he try writing something a little less downbeat than usual. "She said to me, 'I can't really dance to any of your songs,'" the father of three says with a laugh. "Not that I needed to make a dance record, but it dawned on me that I tend to write a lot of acoustic ballads and mid-tempo type tunes. And I thought, 'It's pretty bad when your own kids won't listen to your records. Your own kids!' At the end of the day, people want to have fun more than they want to cry. I realized that it was time for something a little more upbeat and positive and that's what I ended up with on Happy Hour."

Produced by multiple Grammy-Award winner Rob Cavallo, Happy Hour is a breezy blend of country-flavored pop and rock and roll that showcases not only the Detroit native's natural appeal as a likeable Everyman, but also his considerable gifts as a songwriter. Though many know him from his early years as the DJ in Kid Rock's Twisted Brown Trucker Band, Uncle Kracker (whose real name is Matt Shafer) has had impressive success as a songwriter, racking up co-writing credits on Kid Rock's blockbuster hits "Bawitdaba," "Cowboy," "Forever," "Only God Knows Why," and 2008's No. 1 "All Summer Long," as well as his own Adult Top 40 No. 1 "Follow Me" (from his 2001 double-platinum debut Double Wide). "Uncle Kracker has zero musical talent," says Kid Rock. "No musician skills at all, but he's a phenomenal songwriter -- very talented with words and melodies."
www.unclekracker.com

About TobyMac
TobyMac is more than just your run-of-the-mill triple threat. On one hand he ranks among the most successful artists in Christian music history in terms of radio success, sales power and critical acclaim. On the other he is universally recognized as a creative force, an artistic maverick and a prophetic voice for racial reconciliation, social justice and a fierce devotion to faith and family. On the third hand, he's the most humble and approachable merchant of cool on the scene today. Yeah; that's three hands. Some things defy common logic.

Obviously, when it comes time for a new TobyMac record to drop there are a lot of people paying attention. His rampant eclecticism and consistent excellence have set the bar very high, and on his third solo outing, Portable Sounds, he does not disappoint. An increased commitment to melody and soulful singing abounds, while his now trademarked rock/funk/hip-hop side hits deeper grooves and catchier hooks than ever before. On February 20th, the man Christianity Today called "one of the fifty most influential evangelical leaders in America" sets a new standard with the release of Portable Sounds.

His solo career took off from the first notes, with two GOLD albums, six Number One singles, two Grammy nominations and widespread critical acclaim. But to hear TobyMac talk about the passion and drive he has for this, his third solo outing, it sounds like all that was just the wind-up, and Portable Sounds is the pitch. The artist, producer, songwriter, industry leader and father of five was not the slightest bit interested in going through any motions. "Passion for my art drives me so long as I feel the Most High breathing new songs through me. I committed on this project that when writing and recording I will never rely on what has worked in the past and never fear what hasn't. The canvas is blank and the colors are endless."
www.tobymac.com

About Emily West
When Emily takes the stage it's nothing short of fireworks. Her own appreciation for artists such as Patsy Cline and Bette Midler have led her to cultivate her talent as an entertainer - not just a singer. Emily was born to be on stage. The energy, the excitement, the audience response - it fans the flame that drives her to perform. With a little confidence, a lot of charisma, and more than just a flash of wit, West is captivating. "I'm a live singer...performing is very emotional," she states. "They're my songs...my personality set to music." And what a personality! A personality that flickers not just in her live performance, but also in the lyrics of her songs. Emily is a girl's girl. Sweet, funny, sometimes gregarious, often demure, impulsive and vulnerable, quiet and quirky. She takes ownership of her gender birthright and parlays that into lyrics that run the gamut from raw, sometimes painful emotion to top-down-sunny-day all out rockers. West isn't trying to fill a void or follow in the path of someone who has passed this way before...no, Emily West is blazing new trails with her music.

Still this former ingénue from Waterloo, Iowa doesn't take herself too seriously. She moved to Nashville in March of 2000 with the quintessential dream of being a singer. Within a month she had caught the ear of one of Nashville's most influential publishing icons, Tim Wipperman and landed a deal with Warner-Chappell Publishing. At the time West wasn't really even sure what a publishing company did for her, but she learned that opportunities in the music business don't usually happen that quickly. Her alliance with Warner-Chappell not only provided her with an income while she educated herself on the inner-workings of the business, it also fortified her faith in her dream and positioned her with some of the most prolific songwriters in country music.

Mike Dungan at Capitol Records Nashville met West and was intrigued enough to listen. Dungan got a little more than a listening party - he got a complete performance by a consummate artist. He invited Emily back for an encore with his full staff and they too were smitten by West's incredible vocals and sparkling personality. By unanimous decision Emily was invited to be a part of the Capitol family and is currently in the studio working on her debut project.
www.myspace.com/emilywest

American Airlines is the official airline of IEBA. Conference attendees will receive a 10% discount off the lowest applicable eligible published airfare. Please use the following promotional code: 92H9AT, valid from October 8-16, 2009. www.aa.com.

Christian Music News Source

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Christian music news: NASCAR : TobyMac & MercyMe to Perform Pre-Race Concert at Banking 500


Latest christian music:

CONCORD, N.C. - Lowe's Motor Speedway officials announced today that Grammy-nominated musical artists TobyMac and MercyMe will perform a pre-race concert for the Oct. 17 NASCAR Banking 500 only from Bank of America. Fee and Robert Pierre will also be on hand to sing as part of pre-race festivities.

The concert featuring all four bands will begin at 2 p.m. in Turn 4.

Admission to the show is free with the purchase of a ticket to the NASCAR Banking 500.

TobyMac ranks among the most successful artists in the history of Christian music in terms of radio success, sales power and critical acclaim.

He began his music career as a founding member of the Grammy Award-winning and best-selling group, dc Talk, before venturing out on his own in 2001.

Since going solo, his soulful singing combined with his trademarked rock/funk/hip-hop sound has earned him two gold albums, six No. 1 singles and two Grammy nominations.

In 2009, TobyMac took home a Grammy for the Best Rock or Rap Gospel Album with his live DVD/CD "Alive and Transported." In August he released the single "City on our Knees," and has plans to release his fourth solo album in February 2010.

MercyMe, the down-to-earth Texas-based praise and worship group with a modern rock/pop flair was founded by lead singer Bart Millard. The band quickly became one of Christian music's fastest-selling new acts in 2001 with the release of their breakthrough hit, "I Can Only Imagine."

The heartfelt song Millard wrote about his father's early death quickly catapulted the group into the mainstream spotlight. The No. 1 single sold nearly 3 million units, received several GMA Dove Awards, including Song of the Year, and raced up the Top 40, Adult Contemporary, Christian and Country charts alike.

MercyMe had an unimaginable start to their music career with more than 5 million records sold, one double platinum disk, three gold albums, an American Music Award win, two Grammy nominations and 19 No. 1 singles.

In addition MercyMe has appeared on numerous television programs such as The Tonight Show, Fox and Friends, CNN and ABC's Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade.

Now with six albums and more than 13 years of making music, the guys of MercyMe still find themselves passionate about leading people in worship and released their newest CD/DVD set "10" in April 2009. The new release features 12 No. 1 singles and numerous videos that span their career.

MercyMe has plans to release their seventh studio album in 2010.

Dove Award-nominee Fee is the worship band at North Point Community Church in Atlanta, one of the nation's fastest-growing churches. The group, who also travels the country leading worship at student camps and conferences, has plans to release their new record "Hope Rising" on Oct. 6.

Robert Pierre, a high school sophomore, released his debut album, "Inside Out" more than two years ago and has since been sending encouraging messages of faith to teens and adults through his music.

Tickets for the Oct. 17 NASCAR Banking 500, round five of the 10-race Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, start at just $49 and can be purchased by calling the speedway ticket office at 1-800-455 FANS or online at www.lowesmotorspeedway.com.

Christian Music News Source

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Christian music news: TobyMac's newest single sells 17,000+ digital units first week


Latest christian music:

TobyMac’s newest single “City On Our Knees,” from his upcoming February 2010 album, took off at digital retailers including iTunes® Music Store and Amazon MP3, selling more than 17,000 digital units in its first week. The single also hit #2 on Christian/Digital Tracks and #86 on the Hot Digital Tracks chart. The song has also been embraced at radio, with 96 stations adding it to their playlists in the past three weeks. The song has already placed at #14 on the AC Monitored chart, #13 at AC Indicator, and #5 at CHR (Contemporary Hit Radio).

TobyMac, along with Relient K, will entertain audiences across the country on the upcoming fifth annual TobyMac Winter Wonder Slam 2009 Tour. Also scheduled to appear on the tour are B.Reith and Stephanie Smith. The tour will travel to the West Coast for the first time, along with stops in New York City, Fairfax, VA, Pittsburgh and numerous other cities across the states. The tour will be teaming up with the U.S. Marine Corps to help with their Toys for Tots campaign. Music fanatics will be encouraged to bring an unwrapped gift to the event as Marines will be on site to collect toys at every venue.

For more info on Toby, or to see if Winter Wonder Slam is coming to a city near you, please visit winterwonderslam.com or tobymac.com.

Christian Music News Source

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Christian music news: TobyMac, Mark Hall, Casting Crowns win big at Dove Awards

Latest christian music:
TobyMac
won artist of the year and Casting Crowns singer Mark Hallcollected four trophies at Wednesday's 39th annual Dove Awards, which celebrate the best in gospel music."Are you kidding? This is crazy, man. I thought I was Mr. Pre-Televised awards," joked TobyMac, whose real name is TobyMcKeehan. "God has been faithful time and again to surround me with people that sharpen me and that make me better."
TobyMac also won artist of the year in 1996 as a member of dc Talk. His latest album, " Portable Sounds," debuted at No. 10 on theBillboard Top 200 albums chart.
Besides artist of the year, he took home Dove Awards for rock/contemporary album for " Portable Sounds" and short-form video for his hit "Boomin."
Hall, who was the night's leading nominee with six, won song of the year and pop/contemporary recorded song of the year for "East to West," which he co-wrote with Bernie Herms.
His participation on the multi-artist worship project " Glory Revealed" brought Hall individual honors for special event album of the year for the CD, as well as inspirational recorded song of the year for "By His Wounds."
His band also had four nominations and won three: group of the year, best pop/contemporary album of the year for "The Altar and the Door" and pop/contemporary recorded song of the year for " East to West."
"I'm so thankful just to get to be part of the songs," Hall said.
Chris Tomlin won male vocalist of the year and Natalie Grant was awarded female vocalist. Those were their third consecutive wins in their respective categories.
" This is quite amazing. Thank God for letting me sing and give a voice to people around the world to worship him," Tomlin said. "This is unbelievable that God would continue to use us all like this, and I'm very, very grateful."
Grant, who gave a soulful performance of " Bring It All Together" with country star Wynonna Judd, said she was thankful for the freedom to express herself freely.
"I think we forget often what a privilege it is to be in a country where we can record music that boldly proclaims our passion forJesus Christ. What a gift," Grant said.
Brandon Heath won new artist of the year. Heath's "I'm Not Who I Was," a song about forgiveness that he says was inspired by an old photograph of someone he hadn't seen in a while, was nominated for song of the year.
Cindy Morgan won the songwriter of the year award her eighth Dove trophy and Ricky Skaggs and the Whites collected bluegrass recorded song for " Salt of the Earth."
"I think of all things this probably means the most to me because all those years ago I didn't set out to be a singer, just a songwriter," said Morgan, who wrote "How You Live ( Turn Up the Music)" for Point of Grace. Morgan was named new artist of the year 15 years ago.
The contemporary gospel album award went to Israel & New Breed for "A Deeper Level."
"My first ministry is not what you see onstage. It's the church I pastor. It's got four members my wife and my three kids," said the group's singer-songwriter Israel Houghton.
The evening's performers included " American Idol" alum Phil Stacey, Chris Sligh and Mandisa with Amy Grant in a musical tribute to Michael W. Smith.
Switchfoot played " This is Home," a song from the soundtrack of the upcoming film "The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian."
The Doves closed with a salute to the Grand Ole Opry stage, where the show was held. Charlie Daniels led the house through a rousing version of the hymn "I'll Fly Away."
The Gospel Music Association's Dove Awards were broadcast live on XM Satellite radio and on the Gospel Music Channel. In past years the awards were syndicated and shown later on tape.

Source

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Christian music news: TobyMac Kicks Off Monthlong 'Winter Wonder-Slam'

Latest christian music:
Christian hip hop artist tobyMac kicked off his annual “Winter Wonder-Slam” tour with rock band Relient K this week, hitting the first of 17 cities throughout the Bible belt with “not your typical concert.”
“This is the fourth year we have done this tour and it continues to get bigger and bigger,” stated Philip Peters of True Artist Management, which manages for Christian artists including tobyMac, Mandisa, and Matthew West.
“This year the lineup is going to be a party from start to finish—with Relient K, Family Force 5 and new Gotee artist B. Reith,” he added.
For many, Winter Wonder-Slam has become a traditional holiday family reunion. And this year’s reunion is anticipated to again bring the real meaning of Christmas to concert-goers and needy children alike.
As in past years, Winter Wonder-Slam will benefit the U.S. Marine Corps' annual Toys For Tots campaign, which provides a tangible sign of hope to economically disadvantaged children at Christmas.
Concert-goers will again this year be encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped gift to the event.
“I’m a big activist. I love it when people do things for others,” commented Peters.
“This year it’s my personal mission to make it huge! So start thinking of ideas for toys to donate,” he encouraged.
Each year, Winter Slam sets records for the amount of gifts collected for Toys For Tots and produces multiple sell-outs. More than a week before the first Winter Slam stop, the tour had already pre-sold 5,200 tickets in one day for the Houston show, which won’t be until Dec. 12.
"During the holidays, everyone needs a break from studying for exams and Christmas shopping,” explained tobyMac, whose real name is Kevin Michael Mckeehan. “I wanted to put together a diverse tour that rocks in many musical directions but always points to Christ.”
While Winter Wonder-Slam does have a Christmas theme, each band that performs will play their own hits and whatever they are inspired to dish out.
Relient K, for example, will play several Christmas songs as well as a variety of hits and fan favorites from its 10-year history. The band recently celebrated its 10th anniversary with the release of The Bird and the Bee Sides. It also re-issued its 2007 Christmas collection, Let It Snow Baby...Let It Reindeer.

Monday, August 24, 2009

Christian music news: TobyMac Wins Grammy


Latest christian music: TOBYMAC HONORED WITH FIRST SOLO GRAMMY WIN FOR “ALIVE & TRANSPORTED”
“PORTABLE SOUNDS” ALSO RECEIVES RIAA GOLD CERTIFICATION
Source: The M Collective
Los Angeles, CA… Feb. 9, 2008… Last night at the 51st Annual GRAMMY® Awards, The Best Rock Or Rap Gospel Album honor went to the Gospel Music Association’s 2007 Artist of the Year, Forefront Recording artist, TobyMac, just following the RIAA GOLD Certification of his 2007 studio project, PORTABLE SOUNDS. This marks his fifth consecutive GRAMMY® nomination and his first win as a solo act for his newest project, ALIVE & TRANSPORTED, his CD+DVD combo that released last summer. TobyMac won four GRAMMY® Awards as a member of dcTalk. The 51st Annual GRAMMY® Awards were broadcast live on CBS from the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
“It’s an honor to win my first Grammy as a solo artist,” TobyMac commented from the WinterJam tour. “I still can’t believe it, truly humbling. My band and I worked hard on this project and it really is the culmination of diverse people collaborating.”
The recording industry’s most prestigious award, the GRAMMY® , is presented annually by the Recording Academy, NARAS (National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences). A GRAMMY® is awarded by the Recording Academy’s voting membership to honor excellence in the recording arts and sciences. It is a peer honor, awarded by and to artists and technical professionals for artistic or technical achievement, not sales or chart positions.
“Alive and Transported” is TobyMac’s first live concert DVD/CD, which released last May. With over 8 million career scans, “Portable Sounds,” recently certified GOLD by the RIAA, is TobyMac’s latest studio and highest solo debut ever on the Billboard Top 200 chart (No. 10), which hit No. 1 on SoundScan’s Contemporary Christian Overall chart in its first week as well. All three of TobyMac’s solo projects have received numerous GMA Dove Award nominations as well as GRAMMY nominations. In addition, “Momentum” (2001) and “Welcome to Diverse City” (2004), both were awarded RIAA Gold Certification. Along with sold out tour dates, back-to-back radio hits, being named the GMA Dove Award’s 2008 Artist of the Year, and R&R’s Christian CHR Artist of the Year in 2007, TobyMac was also nominated for a 2007 American Music Award as Favorite Inspirational Artist. His song “Ignition” was also recently chosen to play during the 2009 Superbowl as The Arizona Cardinals entered the stadium in Tampa, FL

Monday, August 17, 2009

Christian music news: Winter Jam tour delivers Grammy winner tobyMac to Grand Rapids' Van Andel Arena on Thursday

Latest christian music: GRAND RAPIDS -- Singer-songwriter tobyMac says he's enjoying his reduced responsibility on the Winter Jam tour of Christian music artists.
"People assume when you're closing (the show), you're in control," the Grammy-winning artist said in a phone interview before a show in Columbia, S.C. "But on this tour, I've got nothing to do with it except being asked to be on it."
The veteran artist (Toby McKeehan) heads a multi-artist bill hosted by the vocal band NewSong, originators of the "Jam" concept 14 years ago.
A key feature of the approach is no advance ticket sales. Organizers ask for a $10 donation at the door, but even that isn't necessary for the general-admission seats. A pass-the-bucket offering during the event also helps pay the bills.
"The Winter Jam people have been very accommodating, and it's more laid back for a headline artist because you're not sweating (attendance) numbers," TobyMac, 44, said.
The tour, playing in some of the nation's larger arenas, is averaging more than 9,000 per night, and even drew 20,000 at a recent show in Greensboro Coliseum in Greensboro, N.C.

Source

Monday, August 10, 2009

Christian music news: tobyMac, Slam again a big hit

Latest christian music: One thought keeps running through my head after returning from tobyMac's Winter Wonder Slam three-hour concert Saturday night at the Von Braun Center Arena: Why can't all concerts be this positive and fun?
That's not reality, right? But hey, at least it happens every now and then.
Mac brought his Diverse City band into the VBC along with newcomer B. Reith, Family Force 5 and Relient K for a wonderful evening of upbeat, fun, Christian contemporary music in front of 5,000 or so fans.

Reith played a short set and was okay, but then came the wild and crazy Family Force 5. "Listening to Family Force 5 is like lighting a cluster of firecrackers in your mouth," according to guitarist Derek Mount (known to fans as Chap Stique).
Yep, there's definitely fireworks of some sort going on. Family Force 5 was widen open and performing at 100 mph once it hit the stage. The group even brought its Family Force 5000, a massive drum machine they invented, on stage. As Family Force performed, one of the members kept pushing the buttons that looked like a giant phone keyboard. That itself was strange.
The group performed many songs, including "D-I-E 4 Y-O-U," "Radiator" and put an interesting twist on "Love Addict." During the second chorus, the band changed the words to
"Grandma, she got run over, she got run over by a reindeer, y'all," a Christmas single they put out a couple of years ago. It was a fun and energetic performance.
Relient K took the stage after Family Force 5 and also put on a good show, albeit very much toned down from what the Force brought. The group actually brought some Christmas spirit to the concert by placing some snowmen, Santa Claus and a blowup Christmas tree on stage. They played hits like "High of 75, " "Chapstick, Chapped Lips and Things Like Chemistry" and "Mood Rings."
Relient K didn't just bring out some Christmas props, they played "O Holy Night," followed by a Relient K original, "I Celebrate The Day." The group had been using an animation of a snow-covered field and log cabin in the background, but then used it to play a fun, humorous song about a group of bunnies that closely resembled Relient K called "Sleigh Ride."
Continuing in the humor vein, the group did a triubte to Family Force 5 by spoofing the Subway Commercial "5, $5 footlog" and replacing the words with "5, Family Force, Family Force 5's done."
Of course, the group couldn't end the show without its mega-hit that sounds a little like Good Charlotte, "Who I Am Hates Who I've Been."

Then came Mac, and as well as the other bands performed, Toby took it up another two notches.
His high-energy, hip hop/rap/R&B show opened with "Burn For You" and followed with "Catchafire (Whoopsi-Daisy)," "The Slam," "Gone" and "Boomin'". Not only is Mac's music hip, positive and catchy, but he and his dancers add a whole another element to the stage. They're dancing on the stage in well choreographed moves and act like they're having the times of their lives.
The show was fun, but there was also some inspirational moments, one when Mac shared a story about seeing a Bible verse on a Realtor's card a youngster. The verse was Mark 8:36 "For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" He said that verse inspired him two years ago to write "Lose My Soul," which also led into a short, moving rendition of "Oh Come Let Us Adore Him."
That was pretty much the last time Mac slowed things down. He and the band kicked into the rockin' "Diverse City" and followed with an old school medley that included "Rollercoaster (of Love)," "That's The Way I Like It" and "We Are Family."
The encore was also fun. He started with "Made To Love," and followed with the huge hit with dc Talk, "Jesus Freak." Relient K and Family Force 5 joined him onstage for the Christmas classic "Winter Wonderland," which also kick-started a giant confetti machine that blew snow all over the arena floor. The singers also doused the crowd with water from countless bottles of water and were acting like kids, sliding on the wet stage.
It looked like the show was over, but Mac tried to console disappointed Alabama football fans (after the 31-20 loss to Florida) by playing a few lyrics from "Sweet Home Alabama." He probably didn't have to, most fans were already feeling better after the fun show.

Source

Monday, August 3, 2009

Christian music news: tobyMac To Perform For The Pope At New York Youth Rally

Latest christian music: Nashville, TN.....4/1/08.....Marking his third performance at an event with a Pope, tobyMac has been confirmed as a performer at a Youth Rally on April 19th at St. Joseph’s Seminary in Yonkers, NY which will be presided over by Pope Benedict XVI. DC Talk performed at such rallies in Denver (1993) and St. Louis (1999), both of which were presided over by the late Pope John Paul II. The 2008 rally’s purpose is to encourage youth to seek vocations within the church.
On his inaugural visit to the United States Pope Benedict XVI is attending open-air masses in both Washington D.C. and New York City, and delivering an address to the United Nations and visit to the World Trade Center site.
Advertisement
About being asked to perform before the Pope at the Rally, tobyMac commented, “It's an honor to participate in this Papal visit. Not too many artists are given this opportunity. We have great respect for the work he does.”tobyMac recently completed his “Boomin’ Beyond Measure Tour” with Jeremy Camp and is preparing for the release of his first Live CD and DVD as a solo artist, Alive and Transported, which hits the streets May 26th. In addition he is slated to headline numerous summer festivals including Spirit West Coast, Icthus, Atlantafest, Alive, Creation East and West, Sonshine, and more. Stay updated with all things TobyMac at http://www.tobymac.com.With over 8 million career scans, the GRAMMY-nominated Portable Sounds is tobyMac's latest and highest solo debut ever on the Billboard Top 200 chart (No. 10), and after hitting No. 1 on SoundScan’s Contemporary Christian Overall chart in its first week as well, the project has scanned over 300,000 units and is still solidly in the top 20 after 48 weeks of release. Along with this sales success, tobyMac was named R&R’s Christian CHR Artist of the Year, while over 100 Christian radio stations played his smash hit singles "I'm For You" and "Made to Love," and his video for his rock hit “Boomin’”was named the Gospel Music Channel’s Video of the Year and CCM Magazine reader’s Best Music VIdeo for 2007. tobyMac released his solo debut (Momentum 2001) followed by the critically acclaimed Welcome to Diverse City (2004), both of which received GRAMMY nominations, and most recently were awarded RIAA Gold Certification. As a solo artist, in addition to rave reviews and a favorite in magazine and internet Reader's Choice polls each year, including 2007’s CCM Magazine Best Male Artist of the Year, tobyMac has also won seven Dove Awards, received nine GMA Music/Dove Award nominations, and was recently nominated for an American Music Award as Favorite Inspirational Artist.

Source

Monday, July 27, 2009

Christian music news: TobyMac ''Alive and Transported'' Screening Nationwide June 9

Latest christian music: MORRISTOWN, N.J., May 28, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- On the heels of winning Artist of the Year at the 2008 Dove Awards and performing for Pope Benedict XVI at a youth rally during the Pope's recent visit to the United States, 4 time Grammy Winner TobyMac will hit the big screen in "Alive and Transported" for an exclusive, one night-only engagement on Monday, June 9th, courtesy of The Bigger Picture, the alternative content distribution unit of Access Integrated Technologies, Inc. ("AccessIT") (NASDAQ:AIXD).
After years of requests, Alive and Transported, TobyMac's explosive concert experience is finally being released on a DVD and CD combo. As his fans will confirm, TobyMac has one of the most electrifying shows around, and the full-length project puts you on stage with Toby and the Diverse City Band as they perform "Slam," "Made To Love," "Gone," "Burn For You," "Diverse City," "Catchafire (Whoopsi Daisy)" and many more favorites.
"All the reasons TobyMac won this year's Dove Award for Artist of the Year are evident in his performance in 'Alive and Transported'. He draws in his audience and inspires it with fabulous presentation and sound," said Jonathan Dern, President of The Bigger Picture. "And everyone who sees him in the theatre will feel like he or she has VIP seating at the concert."
"We are proud to present TobyMac's first DVD concert with this special one-night only presentation in theatres," said John Rubey, President of AEG Network LIVE. "Fans who've been asking for this concert to be available will not be disappointed with the high quality digital cinema picture and the incredible surround sound."
Over the past year, and on the heels of two RIAA Gold -certified projects, TobyMac released his best-selling project to-date, Portable Sounds, which was his highest solo debut ever on the Billboard Top 200 chart (No. 10). In addition to sold out tour dates, four back-to-back radio hits and being named R&R's Christian CHR Artist of the Year in 2007 as well as CCM magazine's Best Male Artist of the Year, TobyMac was also nominated for a 2007 American Music Award as Favorite Inspirational Artist.

Source

Monday, July 20, 2009

Christian music news: Tobymac, Thousand Foot Krutch, Building 429 April 26, 2007 Manheim, Pennsylvania

Latest christian music: Concert goers lined up hours before the doors opened. Many of them were shivering in the frigid air by the time 6:30 rolled around. But their wait was worth it. Unfortunately, Portable Sounds tour openers Family Force 5 were not able to make this showing due to their transportation breaking down somewhere in the wilds of America. The crowd hushed as the emcee announced it, and you could almost feel the disappointment drop over the room like a blanket.
But the emotion was shortlived as Building 429 kicked things off and immediately held the crown in the palm of their hands with songs like "Glory Defined" and new cuts off their Iris to Iris release.
Thousand Foot Krutch rocked the house, as expected, frontman Trevor McNevan sporting his trademark skeleton shirt and powerfully delivering TFK hits "Rock Fist", "The Art of Breaking", and "Absolute". These guys know how to rock.
By the time Toby hit the stage, we were all pumped and ready for the amazing musicianship of his band and backup singers. A Tobymac concert is an experience---one every Christian music fan should have the privilege of feasting their eyes on. It's a montage of colored lights, grooving dancers, and amazing musicians. From hits off the Portable Sounds cd including "Boomin'", "Made to Love", and "Suddenly" to favorites like "Extreme Days", "Irene", and "Jesus Freak" . . . you name it. Toby delivered it.

Monday, July 13, 2009

Christian music news: TobyMac/Jeremy Camp @ Wells Fargo

tguitar
Photos by Liz Somers

Latest christian music: Colorado showed its love for Matthew West, Jeremy Camp and TobyMac when it was the first city to sell out the Boomin’ Beyond Measure tour, which hit Denver on Thursday March 21 at the Wells Fargo Theatre. And if you were like me, I got stuck in traffic and missed Matthew West. Please post a few comments on his performance.
Here’s a quick rundown of the show:
Jeremy Camp got the crowd ready for the main act - the hip-hopping TobyMac - with his acoustic guitar rock licks. The sound at the Wells Fargo Theatre did Camp’s voice justice. He sent the crowd to its feet with “Lay Down My Pride,” and “Give You Glory.”

Source

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

TobyMac, Johnny and June Videos Strike a Chord with Viewers


Film-maker Eric Welch builds momentum with six music video nominations NASHVILLE, Tenn., April 29 /PRNewswire/ -- What do Dolly Parton, TobyMac and Colbie Caillat have in common?

Each of them has worked under the direction of award-winning video director Eric Welch of Broken Poet Productions.

With six music video nominations this award show season, Welch just captured a 2009 Dove Award for TobyMac's Live Concert Video "Alive and Transported." And with more nods for his "Johnny and June" music video by Heidi Newfield, Welch's ACM and CMT award nominations are building the momentum as he passes the 100 music video mark.

More than a decade ago, Eric Welch's passion for merging film and music brought him from advertising into the realm of music video. With a keen eye for cinematography and dynamic editing, Welch's style quickly caught the attention of the pop group dc Talk and vocalist TobyMac, creating a relationship that would span a solid decade and lead to Welch's consistent stream of award-winning film work.

Last Thursday night marked a special win as it coincided with the 10-year mark of his work with Toby. "Winning for TobyMac's live DVD was special because it echoes the formation of Broken Poet Productions which was developed during dc Talk's 'Welcome to the Freak Show' concert video 10 years ago," says Welch. "I'm truly honored to receive this award with Toby, but the true reward is about creating art that we are passionate about."

Welch didn't spend much time celebrating that night, because he was back to the editing suite, working on six current projects including videos for Jars of Clay and Randy Houser. As if that wasn't enough, CMT has tapped Welch's unique style of cinematography to direct Sugarland's upcoming CMT "Invitation Only" special.

In addition to winning the Dove Award, Welch has been nominated for the ACM Video of the Year, CMT Music Award Nominations for Director of the Year, Duo Video of the Year, USA Weekend Breakthrough Video of the Year, in addition to Female Video of the Year for Heidi Newfield's "Johnny and June."

Welch formed Broken Poet Productions to craft passionate and artistic music videos, live concerts, series, commercials, in-house productions and still photography. Welch has directed multiple projects in various genres and he looks forward to developing innovative productions that reflect a commitment to excellence and creativity.

Christian Music News Source

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Toby Mac and wife Amanda to run for New Hope Academy


CCM STAR Toby Mac and his wife Amanda will be participating in the Music City Marathon in Nashville on 25th April to raise money for New Hope Academy. The Academy, in Franklin, Tennessee, offers elementary school children and families a chance of a new start. The Academy is "open to all races, economic brackets and cultures to learn love and live together in an environment that extends acceptance, hope and a faith-based education to every child."

Christian Music News Source

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

tobyMac's run for Hope


Toby and Amanda will be running the Music City
Marathon for New Hope Academy


(Nashville, Tenn.) April 9, 2009—TobyMac announced the following today. For links on how to donate for Run For Hope, visit www.active.com/donate/whatpowersyou/tobymac...

Amanda and I want to tell you about a special place. Anybody who knows me, has heard me talk about Diverse City-- my dream to see no barriers between any of us because of race, cultural or economic differences. Amanda and I were introduced to a school that is walking out this dream-- New Hope Academy. New Hope is place where families from all walks of life are coming together and walking in community in a way that is rarely seen in this world. Black, White, hispanic, or native American... rich or poor ... learning side by side. Kids from different backgrounds are learning how to think differently and are becoming servant leaders who will ultimately transform our culture. It doesn't stop with the students. The parents are learning how to become a community--to kick down the economic, cultural and racial walls that keep us apart. They are learning as a family that they can change the future of their community by changing their own heart.

Amanda and I truly believe that New Hope Academy is like a city on a hill that is a shining light of hope for the world to see. One family at a time--changing their city. We would love for you to partner with us in helping send kids to this school. We are going to be running in the Music City Marathon on April 25, 2009. Together we will be running a complete marathon. Amanda will be running 13 miles and I will be running 13 miles. Would you consider sponsoring us per mile as we raise money for New Hope Academy. It could be $1, $5, or $20 a mile. Any gift would be greatly appreciated.

As a thank you to the highest fundraiser, I am throwing in a special package effective for the next tobyMac tour:

* 4 tickets and backstage passes
* Dinner with myself and some of the Diverse City band

Thank you for helping us see this dream become a reality.

Also, for more information about New Hope Academy, check out these videos on their website

In 1996 a Williamson County church became the catalyst for lasting change in the low-income neighborhoods of Franklin, Tennessee, when it opened the doors of New Hope Academy. Here, elementary school children and families of all races, economic brackets, and cultures learn, love, and live together in an environment that extends acceptance, hope, and a faith-based education to every child. New Hope Academy reserves 50% of its seats for low-income children and raises over $1,000,000 annually to provide scholarships to those students.

Christian Music News Source

tobyMac FInalle Winter Jam 09




Christian Music News Source

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Toby Mac, Third Day among Lifest performers



OSHKOSH -- The 11th annual Lifest is being held July 8-12 at the Sunnyview Expo and Fairgrounds in Oshkosh.

Among those scheduled to appear is rocker/rapper Toby Mac, who recently won his first solo Grammy Award after four previous nominations, taking home the top prize for Rock or Rap Gospel Album with Alive and Transported. Toby Mac will perform on Thursday, July 9, according to a Lifest press release.

Additional artists appearing at Lifest include Third Day, Jeremy Camp, Skillet, David Crowder Band, Hawk Nelson, Matthew West, Superchick, Norma Jean, Red, Kutless and a host of others.

Lifest will also feature nearly 50 workshops, seminars and speakers. Best-selling author of The Shack, William Paul Young, will speak on Sunday, July 12th. The Shack is still the #1 New York Times Bestseller, 42 weeks running, with over 6 million copies in print.

Additional speakers include: Authors, Tony Campolo, Gabe Lyons, Bob Lenz, Bo Boshers and others, as well as Aaron Kampman of the Green Bay Packers, Troy Murphy – Chaplain for the Green Bay Packers, and many more.

“We’re hoping people will consider making Lifest their summer vacation destination,” says Lifest Founder and President of Life Promotions, Bob Lenz. “With more than 150 acts and so much to do at Lifest, we really believe it’s a great value and gives a perfect opportunity for entire families to spend time together in an inviting and fun atmosphere.”

Along with six stages of diverse artists and speakers, Lifest also features a comedy stage, activities, dozens of vendors, talent search, food, camping, fireworks, games and KidZone.

Christian Music News Source

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

TOBYMAC "ROCK AND ROLLS" INTO CAMP ELECTRIC!



(Nashville, Tennessee) –March 17, 2009 – Move over Jack Black! Take a seat School of Rock junkies! Summer ’09 in Nashville will roll-out the real life 'reality' second edition of the ultimate rock 'n roll fantasy camp for students aged 13-18--Camp Electric!

In a thumbnail: It’s a unique experience “all access” music pass for young musicians, ages 13-18 to ‘come rock’ with top Christian artists & musicians, and it’s happening June and July in Nashville.

On the smokin’ heels of a sold-out debut last summer, Camp Electric is back center stage this June-July with an expanded two session registration plan. Back too this summer is one of Christian music’s most consistently relevant multi-Grammy winning, multiple-platinum artists—tobyMac—fresh from his most recent solo Grammy win in February (Best Rock or Rap Album of the year—for Alive and Transported) and the genre crossing diversity of having his music featured at this year’s Superbowl ‘09— toby is stepping up his involvement in the camp to take a lead role in promoting the creative virtues of the all-star event.

Performing on the Camp Electric concert stage last year, the man described as a “creative force, artistic maverick, and prophetic voice for radical social justice,” quite simply fell in love with the event’s creative concept of reaching youth with a message that matters.

toby noted in a recent interview: “For me, my entire career has been focused on youth culture and encouraging young people to impact the world through music and beyond.

That’s why I started dcTalk and Gotee Records—that’s why I continue touring. And that’s also why I’m totally blown away with Camp Electric. They’re passionately focused on youth and awakening teens to God’s love through music and their excellence in musicianship.”

In response to registration demands with last year’s sell-out single 5 day session, Camp Electric will this year offer two five day camp sessions—June 28th-July 2nd and July 5th-9th—both staging as a full “onsite experience” at the campus of Trevecca University in Nashville . Each session will bring a unique mix of nightly concerts by the top names in Christian music—a roll-out this year that includes such names as tobyMac, Kutless, BarlowGirl, Red, and Pillar as highlights.

Additionally, a “Mystery Artist” concert will again be a major event highlight—following on the ’08 surprise unveiling of mystery artist, Jeremy Camp. Daily sessions with top Christian musicians will offer ‘hands-on’ instructional sessions, personalized tips and tune-ups, opportunities to perform for industry professionals, and overall encouragement towards spiritual and performance excellence. Vocals, keyboards, drums, bass, and guitar will all have individualized instructors ranging from session and major league road players with bands such as Kutless, Sanctus Real, MercyMe, Chris Tomlin, and tobyMac’s Diverse City.

Camp Electric is being promoted by the nation’s leading promoter of Christian themed concerts and events, The Premier Group, Major sponsors again this year include K-LOVE and Air 1 Radio, leading voice of Christian radio under the EMF Broadcasting banner. Also onboard as sponsors for Camp Electric’s ’09 staging are Hearitfirst.com and famecast.com, the latter a major promotional support site for national contest facilitations for major entities such as John Mayer and Guitar Center.

John Sanders, President of the Camp Electric experience notes: “With American Idol and all the music reality series so hot, our event provides a real-life ‘reality opportunity’ within a totally positive atmosphere. Kids can interact and hang with their friends, jam with their music, have a front row at major concerts each night, and have a full ‘all access’ to top Christian musicians and instructors through an event with one ultimate goal at its’ center: To spiritually enrich the lives of teens through the medium of music.”

Sanders noted that an expanded future of national contest promotions, ‘making of the band’ reality productions, and retail tie-ins are in development for add-on value to the Camp Electric experience.

tobyMac himself is top of the list on those promoting kids to attend this year’s event. He sends a personal shout-out to those coming:

“To all my CE people packin’ bags for ’09—I say ‘Welcome,' and get ready to bring the noise!' Bring your instrument of choice and plan to rock! This will be a week to learn about life, music, the road, and everything positive in between. Come away with a fire to play where God has you—whether it’s in front of 10 or 10,000--do it with passion!”

Registration is limited—and those wishing to attend can receive bonus camp savings through May 1st. For sign-up information and a complete resource of Camp Electric’s summer ’09 concert and curriculum, resource online: http://www.campelectric.com/

Christian Music News Source