“Strong vocals and thoughtful production… combined with a potent sense of mission.  Bates is proof yet again that there's value in each of our stories.” -- Christianity Today

From engaging pop songs to a powerful testimony to his passion for Africa, there's a new voice in Contemporary Christian music.  Brian Bates’ latest CD, ‘Worlds Collide’, brings ten songs full of hope for restoration and new life. “Music is simply a vehicle,” says Brian. “I think what I have to offer most in my songs is my relationship with God and my experiences in life, with all the heartache and joy and hope.  I am a work in progress and am honest about that.  I believe our struggles are sacred, and that there is power in weakness.”

At age 23, Brian walked away from drugs and a party lifestyle, braving a new path of finding his identity in Christ.  His turnaround started with the relentless kindness of a friend. “It was her authentic compassion that surprised and impacted me. God’s kindness leads to repentance - that’s so important for us to remember.”

A major influence in the writing of Bates’ new CD was his work in Africa.  He helped develop ‘Mission Bo’, a partnership with World Vision to help communities in Sierra Leone.  The project has seen $200,000 raised and over 200 children sponsored in 2 years. “Africa has changed my paradigm about what really matters,” says Bates.  "I love to share lessons learned about serving the poor, joy in every circumstance and being a part of something bigger than yourself."

Brian Bates knows firsthand the power of God’s restoration – from his work in Africa, from his own life. That knowledge infuses his music and directs his path.  “The bottom line is Jesus is my hero,” Brian says. “He was dependent on his Father and compassionately focused on the outsider.  I’m gonna live like that.”