GRAMMY® award-winning and multi-platinum-selling artist Michael W. Smith has traversed the globe in 2012, kicking off an international tour last January which visited countries including Brazil, Australia, England, Northern Ireland, Canada, Romania, Hungary, Croatia, Switzerland and Latvia. Soon Smith will embark on a final leg, including shows in Canada, South Africa, a USO Tour and his traditional Symphony Christmas tour; but not before stopping off in Nashville for the wedding of his daughter Anna earlier
this month.
Smith launched his world tour with five shows in Brazil from Jan.11-18 before heading back home for the “Wonder, Worship & Glory Tour,” which comprised 19 domestic dates through late March. He then resumed his international travels with multiple appearances in Australia, including Easterfest, as well as Belfast, Northern Ireland and London, England as part of the “United Tour,” also featuring Steven Curtis Chapman.
The month of May saw Smith in Canada for 11 concerts before taking off early June to Romania then Hungary, where he performed at the Franklin Graham Festival, Croatia, Switzerland, and Latvia, also a Franklin Graham event. Smith finally took a breather, but only for the wedding of his daughter Anna on June 15. The wedding, attended by 350 guests, took place in a small chapel about 20 miles south of Nashville in Franklin, Tenn. A reception followed at a nearby farm where Smith and attendees danced the night away.
Smith plans to head back out July 7-14 on the fourth 2012 “Michael W. Smith & Friends Cruise” to Canada and New England before venturing overseas again for his final aforementioned world tour stops. Visit: www.michaelwsmith.com for additional information and a complete list of tour dates.
GRAMMY® award-winning and multi-platinum-selling artist Michael W. Smith will headline a spring “Wonder, Worship & Glory Tour” to nearly 20 cities through March. Smith will be joined by popular Americana four-piece family band L’Angelus and tour sponsor, Pong Research Corporation, maker of patented smart phone and iPad cases that have been proven to protect users from wireless device radiation.
Showcasing music from Smith’s latest releases GLORY (Nov. 21, 2011) and Decades of Worship (Jan. 17, 2012), as well as popular Smith tunes from the last three decades, the tour will launch in Greensboro, N.C. on Feb. 23 and visit 12 states. A complete list of tour dates follows
this release.
Back by popular demand, Smith has asked fan favorites L’Angelus to rejoin him on his spring tour.
Smith fans were introduced to this talented sibling group at his Nashville Fan Weekend in 2011 and again later in the year when L’Angelus joined his "It's a Wonderful Christmas: The Symphony Tour.”
A long-time proponent of healthy living and an avid user of mobile devices, Smith is delighted to welcome Pong Research Corporation to the tour. “As soon as I learned that the World Health Organization classified cell phone radiation as a possible carcinogen, I decided I wouldn’t even think of using my smart phone and iPad without having them in Pong cases,” says Smith. “Every member of my family uses them.”
"Even this many years into it – I get excited about planning a new tour,” says Smith. “It's always fun to play new music, dust off a few I might not have done in a while and, of course, share time worshiping together. It will be great having Katie, Paige, Steve and Johnny (L'Angelus) out with me again.
For additional information on the tour and an up-to-date tour itinerary, visit: www.michaelwsmith.com.
IMMERSE, the Gospel Music Association’s Music Training Experience, is pleased to announce the first confirmed artists for the July conference. Those set to appear include Grammy® and Dove Award winner Michael W. Smith, Dove Award winner Chris August, and popular indie-minded artist, Derek Webb, Additional announcements will be made in the coming weeks.
On Sunday, July 22, Michael W. Smith welcomes registrants in an evening worship service featuring yet to be named special guest artists and industry professionals. This event will prove to be an unforgettable night for attendees dedicated to song, inspiration, focus and prayer.
Monday evening, July 23, an eclectic collection of artists will be performing in a special event exclusively for IMMERSE attendees. Chris August, Derek Webb and Remedy Drive will all be featured, performing favorite songs and sharing wisdom and road stories. Additional artists are pending. This intimate Monday night concert is always a favorite for attendees.
IMMERSE will be held at Rocketown in downtown Nashville. Founded by Michael W. Smith, Rocketown will give attendees a perfect environment for learning, production, performance and fellowship.
Now in its fourth year, IMMERSE offers a unique, hands on experience for up and coming indie artists, songwriters and future business leaders. With competitions for vocalists, singer/songwriters, bands and songwriters, concerts, networking events, and over 100 featured speakers and teachers, IMMERSE boasts unparalleled training, intimate concerts, professional feedback and individual opportunities to connect with music experts, IMMERSE truly gives a holistic music business experience.
Rates for IMMERSE 2012 begin at just $199 if registration is submitted before March 31, 2012.
For more information on IMMERSE, please visit online at: www.experienceimmerse.com, www.facebook.com/gmaimmerse and www.twitter.com/gmaimmerse.
Having released the acclaimed instrumental project, GLORY (Nov. 21, 2011), celebrated artist, songwriter, composer, instrumentalist, performer, author and producer, Michael W. Smith delivers his latest musical offering, Decades of Worship, on Jan. 17. Smith, a mainstay with a 29-year career, brings together the best of his beloved worship hymns on this, his 24th project.
Since his entrance onto the music scene in the early 80s, Smith has been a worship leader, writer and has recorded some of the church’s most popular worship anthems including “Great Is The Lord,” “Agnus Dei,” “A New Hallelujah” and “Healing Rain” to name a few. These songs were released on three worship albums since 2001, including Worship, Worship Again, A New Hallelujah, and Healing Rain, which have collectively sold more than 3.7 million copies.
Available for the first time, Smith’s top worship songs are all on one CD. Decades Of Worship features 12 total tracks comprising such classics as “Agnus Dei” and “A New Hallelujah” mentioned above as well as “Above All,” “Mighty To Save,” and “Breathe,” among others. A complete track listing is as follows:
Decades of Worship
Agnus Dei
Above All
Breathe
Awesome God
You Are Holy (Prince of Peace)
Here I Am To Worship
I See You
Mighty To Save
A New Hallelujah
Healing Rain
So Great (with Christy Nockels & Israel Houghton)
Take Me Over
BONUS CUT: Great Is The Lord (newly remastered)
“As long as I can remember, I have felt called to lead worship. Each song on this collection is a reflection of my heart to see people draw closer to God. I pray that these songs move people to encounter God in a new and deeper way,” shares Smith.
The new year ushers in a flurry of activity for Michael. In addition to a Spring Tour in the U.S., concert dates have already been booked in Brazil, Australia, Europe and Canada. July 7 – 14 will see Smith hosting his semi-annual Michael W. Smith and Friends Cruise; this trip touring Eastern Canada and New England.
For a list of current tour dates, visit: www.michaelwsmith.com.
GRAMMY® award-winning and multi-platinum selling artist Michael W. Smith is preparing to launch his highly-anticipated holiday event, It’s A Wonderful Christmas: The Symphony Tour. Featuring a full symphony orchestra each night, the tour will also introduce audiences to the infectious musical stylings of L’Angelus (Lawn-Jay-Loose), an incredible four-piece family band with Louisiana roots and Americana influences. This seasonal crowd favorite concert series kicks off Nov. 26, in Toledo, Ohio, and will span 13 performances in eight major markets including Dallas, Houston, St. Louis, Jacksonville and more.
Smith has inspired millions with his music, as evidenced by his 16 gold, seven platinum and two double-platinum albums, which contribute to career sales of 15 million. He draws hundreds of thousands to his concerts each year, and has in particular become one of the most popular holiday performers in the music industry today. The Associated Press calls Smith’s Christmas music “cinematic,” and his annual holiday concert series continues to sell out venue after venue. The year’s It’s A Wonderful Christmas: The Symphony Tour will again feature Smith with a full symphony orchestra, performing selections from his three acclaimed Christmas albums including It’s A Wonderful Christmas (2007), Christmastime (1998) and Christmas (1993), along with a few key titles from his brand new instrumental album and 23rd career record, Glory (Nov. 22). The symphony will be conducted each night by the tour’s musical director, producer/arranger David Hamilton, who has conducted numerous orchestras including the National Philharmonic and recently made his debut appearance at Carnegie Hall. Hamilton also worked closely with Smith on the Glory project.
A family of expert musicians, incredible singers and top-notch live entertainers, L’Angelus combines the best of Louisiana’s music traditions: Cajun fiddle tunes, saxophone-driven swamp-pop, and New Orleans-influenced R&B. The dynamic, high-energy four-piece band incorporates multiple instruments including guitar, bass, drums, fiddle, saxophone and harmonica. L’Angelus will perform selections from their holiday release, O Night Divine, as well as from their acclaimed indie projects, Ca C’est Bon and Sacred Hymns Collection.
The Nashville community rallied last night for a special event to raise funds in support of local non-profit teen outreach, Rocketown. The “Redneck Rally for Rocketown,” presented by Rocketown founder and multi-platinum recording artist Michael W. Smith, renowned comedian Jeff Foxworthy as well as primary sponsor Journeys, brought together more than 500 attendees and grossed in excess of $350,000 for the organization.
Hosted at Rocketown in downtown Nashville, the casual evening consisted of a VIP reception prior to a catered dinner by Black-eyed Pea home style cooking, music by The Hummingbirds, featured entertainer Jeff Foxworthy, and both live and silent auctions. Great American Country television personality Storme Warren emceed the event.
Attendees included political notables such as Governor Bill Haslam, Mayor Karl Dean, Rep. Marsha Blackburn, Congressman Jim Cooper, the Honorable Zach Wamp and a representative from Senator Corker’s office. Also present were Mike Fisher and Carrie Underwood; Tennessee Titans players Rob Bironas, Jake Locker and Barrett Ruud; Dan Cathy, president of Chick-fil-A; and Dave Ramsey.
Among those auction items drawing top dollar were Michael W. Smith’s fully restored 1957 Ford T-Bird Convertible, which fetched $26,000; a Pro-Team 175 TXW Bass Tracker Boat going for more than $13,000; two tickets for the “Michael W. Smith & Friends” 2012 Canada/New England Cruise; and a guitar signed by Carrie Underwood. Together the live and silent auctions brought in more than $70,000.
Smith comments on the event, Rocketown’s most successful fundraiser to date, “I’m humbled by the support we’ve received this year. This city rallied as a community on Rocketown’s behalf and because of that, we get to keep serving kids and families. A special thanks to Jeff Foxworthy, who shared his special brand of comedy with us. I’m not sure I’ve ever laughed as hard!”
Foxworthy adds, “Rocketown gives people a feeling of significance, a feeling that somebody cares, somebody listens and somebody believes. That you got a gift and you can develop it. Boy, if as a community we can do that; if we can help more kids on the front end, it’d cut back on the number of people needing help on the back end.”
“Rocketown was created on Michael W. Smith’s vision and continues to grow through Nashville’s generous support,” shares ReGina Newkirk, Executive Director Rocketown. “The success of this year’s fundraiser will allow us to reach more at-risk kids through after school programming, fun and safe entertaining activities and free counseling and case management services. We’re so thankful for everyone who is committed to investing in the teens we serve.”
To donate, volunteer or find out more about how to support Rocketown, please visit: www.donate.rocketown.com
One of contemporary Christian music’s most enduring and beloved artists, Michael W. Smith presents the highly anticipated instrumental follow-up to his 2000 RIAA Gold-selling album, Freedom. Titled Glory, the project, Smith’s 23rd career record, will be available at national retail outlets on Nov. 22.
Recorded with a 65-piece orchestra at London’s prestigious AIR Studios (Andrew Lloyd Webber, Peter Gabriel, Pirates of the Caribbean, “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader”), Glory was arranged by Smith’s longtime friend David Hamilton and features a moving collection of original music. Included on the album, produced by Smith, are “Glory – The Overture,” “The Patriot,” “Heroes,” “Whitaker’s Wonder,” “Redemption,” “Atonement,” “The Romance,” “The Tribute” and a larger-than-life symphonic version of “Agnus Dei.”
Smith comments, “I’ve said many times that Freedom is my favorite record, so I’m very excited to be releasing my second instrumental record. I think the people that enjoyed Freedom will love this one; and I actually think some of the unique musical twists this project is taking will open it up to a whole new audience as well.”
On the inspiration for Glory, Smith notes, “When I work with an orchestra I feel like I’m in my element. I often think of the film ‘Chariots of Fire’ and the famous quote by the film’s hero Eric Liddell. He says, ‘when I run I feel His pleasure.’ This statement encompasses my experience when I work on instrumental music. When I’m able to see sweeping melodies and epic, cinematic songs come to fruition, it’s like I am offering a prayer to our Father in Heaven.”
Glory will be released via MWS Group and distributed by Provident Distribution/Sony Music.
Standby for additional on Smith’s forthcoming fall and winter tours. For a list of current tour dates, visit: www.michaelwsmith.com.
With 16 Gold Records, 7 Platinum and 2 Double-platinum albums to his name, and as the author of 12 books, Michael W. Smith’s latest read “A Simple Blessing: The Extraordinary Power of an Ordinary Prayer” is compelling critics and fans to bless others as well:
“ Instead of looking for how you can be blessed, it's inspiring to hear Michael's insight on how best to bless others. It only seems fitting to consider Michael W. Smith's ‘A Simple Blessing: The Extraordinary Power of an Ordinary Prayer’ a blessing itself!”—Jesusfreakhideout.com
“This small, well-written book is relevant to any Christian. Readers will learn more about Smith’s experience of marriage, family, career and mission at home and around the world, and fans will appreciate the heart of ministry that motivated him to offer such a blessing.”--Charisma
“His thoughts of blessing include not only being blessed but by becoming a blessing to others by letting go of selfishness, and to be guided instead, by love for others…Fans of Michael W. Smith will want a copy, and those who may feel the need for an infusion of graceful words that call to a less selfish life.”—Amazon.com
“In ‘What I Learned From a Simple Blessing’ musician Michael W. Smith explains how words of blessing spoken over others can be hugely impactful. The amazing truth is that our simple words combined with God’s grace and power can breathe new life and hope into hurting people desperate to receive a blessing.”- Walk Thru the Bible Ministries
“Michael W. Smith’s latest book is a true tour de force. It showcases the power of an ordinary prayer and how it can help anybody in a time of great need, whether it’s during a natural disaster or a time of separation/divorce or other relevant scenarios. “-suite101.com
In honor of his new book, Smith recently took a break during the 2 Friends Tour with longtime friend Amy Grant to join Governor Mike Huckabee on his national Fox News Channel program to discuss the simple prayer that has impacted so many across the country. Fans can watch the full-length interview and special performance on Huckabee via the web. In addition, earlier this week fans were able to watch the GRAMMY ® award winning artist give an in-depth interview with The 700 Club. To watch Smith speak about the book with The 700 Club click here.
For more information Smith and “A Simple Blessing: The Extraordinary Power of an Ordinary Prayer,” please visit www.michaelwsmith.com.
It’s not even spring yet, but multi-platinum recording artists Michael W. Smith and Amy Grant have already experienced one of their highlights for 2011: touring alongside each other as longtime friends and creative partners. The pair’s recently-wrapped run of shows called the “2 Friends Tour” brought back a flood of memories not only for fans, but for the performers as well.
“Touring with Amy was absolutely awesome,” Smith says. “Our friendship runs deep and my respect for her as an artist has always been off the chart. But to see her every night – the way she performs and communicates and connects with the crowd – it’s just amazing.”
“I loved standing beside Michael every night,” Grant adds. “I loved watching his amazing, God-given gifts. His smile is as familiar as my childhood and I have missed seeing it close up, standing shoulder to shoulder. I loved singing with him as he brought each crowd into worship. He is someone I trust and I’m never wary about going somewhere he wants to go creatively or spiritually.”
Grant and Smith split the “2 Friends” evening, each performing complete sets of their own material, but also came together for songs they wrote together or are deeply associated with, such as the show-opening “Stay For Awhile” from Grant’s 1986 The Collection compilation, the seminal anthem “Lead Me On” and Smith’s signature breakthrough hit “Friends.” That interplay, combined with the timelessness of each artist’s song list, made for a concert experience The Grand Rapids Press called “a three-hour trip down memory lane, with songs triggering thoughts of times well spent with faithful friends.” The Orange Country Register noted “Smith and Grant blended their voices perfectly, a satisfying touch that would return throughout the show…A fast-paced mix of material that pleased the capacity crowd.”
The tour generated double-digit sold-out shows, including Rocklin, Calif; Anaheim, Calif.; Redlands, Calif.; Phoenix; Holland, Mich.; Omaha, Neb.; Franklin, N.C.; Nashville, Tenn.; Columbus, Ohio; New York City and Lancaster, Pa. The response was so overwhelming, Grant and Smith have agreed to do what many fans unable to see the show this go-round hoped they would do: they’re taking it back out this fall.
“I don’t think we were out of rehearsals before we were talking about going back out in the fall!” Smith says. “Thankfully, people showed up – there were a lot of sold-out nights and we’re going to do it again this fall. I can’t wait!”
“I loved every aspect of this tour – the music, the bands, the camaraderie, the joy and the crowds,” Grant says. “It was a real gift and I’m excited to do it again next fall.”
That’s not to say these two busy artists are looking past the spring and summer, which are already packed. Smith will head out on a 20-25 date spring tour in support of Wonder (more details forthcoming) before embarking on an active schedule of summer appearances at major festivals around the country. Grant will be spending time at home this spring, writing and recording material for a new album. She will perform several charity events and concerts throughout the summer, and will be featured nationally at several Women of Faith events in the coming months.
Reunion Records’ flagship artist Michael W. Smith is not one to let rain, snow, sleet or the flipping of the calendar slow him down.
Continuing the momentum brought about by the release of his 22nd album project Wonder, Smith’s early 2011 schedule finds him honoring the centennial birthday of a former president, lending a hand to the now year-long recovery of the island nation of Haiti, and hitting the road for a tour with a longtime friend.
The ‘2 Friends Tour’ brings Smith back together with Amy Grant for the pair’s first tour together in more than two decades, since the record-breaking Lead Me On tour of 1988-89. The two have continued to collaborate over the years, creating some of Christian music’s most memorable songs, and Smith acknowledges that finding the right mix of music for the upcoming tour, which begins Feb. 2 in Rocklin, Calif., will be daunting.
“When I think about set lists and what we might do together, the question isn’t, ‘Where do we
start?’” Smith notes. “The question is, ‘Where do we stop?’ This will be a fun night with a lot of
great memories.”
Prior to the ‘2 Friends Tour’ kickoff, Smith will make a couple of high-profile appearances, starting this Sunday, Jan. 9 alongside evangelist Franklin Graham for a crusade in Haiti, and also Sunday, Feb. 6 at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif., as part of the celebration of the former president’s 100th birthday.
“I’m pleased to make another trip to Haiti in support of people who so desperately need our continued help and support. The tragedy of the 2010 earthquake is an everyday reality for these folks and I hope that we will not forget our commitment to our brothers and sisters there.”
“Performing at President Reagan’s birthday celebration is a real honor. He was an amazing leader, diplomat and humanitarian. He set the bar high for all those in public office. I’m grateful to join Amy Grant, The Beach Boys and others to celebrate his life and his legacy.”
The first quarter of 2011 will also see Smith make an impact in the print world, both with the March publication of his 12th book “A Simple Blessing: The Extraordinary Power of an Ordinary Prayer,” and as part of a Dayspring/Hallmark line of audio greeting cards. Smith will be featured on point-of-purchase displays of the new card line at more than 1,000 retail outlets around the country.
After the ‘2 Friends Tour’ wraps March 6 in Lancaster, Pa., Smith will head out on a 20-25 date spring tour in support of Wonder before embarking on an active schedule of summer appearances around the country. More details on the spring Wonder tour forthcoming.
GRAMMY ® and GMA Dove Award winning, multi-platinum selling recording artist Michael W. Smith reaches another milestone in his 28 year career with the release his 12th book, “A Simple Blessing; The Extraordinary Power of an Ordinary Prayer,” in March 2011 (Zondervan).
Smith, known for his compassion and generosity, has been impacted by stories of those hardest-hit by life changing devastation. From the effects of the economic downturn to families losing loved ones to natural disasters half a world away. Recently, Smith has felt led to close his concerts with a prayer of blessing over his audience. A simple prayer of blessing, sparked a response unlike anything he’s experienced in his 28 years of ministry.
Letters and e-mails poured in, relaying stories of the encouragement, empowerment and hope brought to troubled lives. An organic move to prayer is taking place.
From this response Smith discovered that God’s blessings are measured more by the flourishing of character in adversity than the flourishing of possessions, and that the result in such is overflowing joy and peace. Collaborating with accomplished writer Thomas Williams, Smith’s desire and purpose in writing the book was to encourage and inspire readers to examine their hearts and learn to experience God’s blessing as well as to speak words of blessing to others to draw them nearer to the heart of God.
This book breaks the prayer Smith prays into its six specific Blessings: What Does It Mean to Pray for Others, The Prayer for Spiritual Health, The Prayer for a Pure Mind, The Prayer for Personal Holiness, The Prayer for Backyard Blessings, and The Prayer for Spiritual Victory. Each chapter begins with a quote containing the segment of the blessing it will address. Then the chapter explains the value of the blessing and gives practical guidance on how to open oneself to the blessing and enjoy its benefits. An example of one blessing is in The Prayer for a Pure Mind:
Be blessed with supernatural strength to turn your eyes from foolish, worthless, and
evil things, and to shut out the demeaning and the negative. Instead may you behold the
beauty of things that God has planned for you as you obey His Word. May God bless you
ears to hear the lovely, the uplifting, and the encouraging. May your mind be strong,
disciplined, balanced, and faith-filled.
Following the blessing Smith goes on to describe how the impact of our culture is determining how our minds are affected (or not) by entertainment: “We’re being conditioned to accept the negative as the normal. From time to time I’ve expressed to friends my disappointment with a TV show or my longing for a movie with a hero I could admire for his values or his refusal to compromise. More often than not, the response I get is that I’m not moving with the times. The movies of the past were not realistic, they tell me….They want movie heroes with real flaws like the rest of us. No one is altogether pure or altogether evil. And if movies, TV shows, and novels are honest, they will give us characters who reflect that natural mixture.”
And then in approaching the value of the blessing he says : “I know that today’s movie critics would dismiss films such as ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ as unrealistic, wishful fantasies with impossibly good heroes and sappy happy-ever-after endings…I beg to differ. The grunge, corruption, immorality, and violence that critics like to call reality are not reality at all. The true reality is found beneath the blight in what God created in the beginning — the perfection of the world as he originally made it. Only the good that God created is real. We came along and added the corruption, evil, pain, decay, and death, which are not reality but contaminations of reality…. The story God wrote has a happy-ever-after ending that promises eternal joy to those who focus on the pure and lovely and adopt true character into their lives. If we focus our eyes and ears on things that give us glimpses of that happy reality, it will go a long way toward enabling us to receive the blessings God wants to pour into us.”
Smith recently wrapped the very successful “Make A Difference” Tour with Max Lucado , TobyMac and Third Day, and recently launched his, “It’s a Wonderful Christmas” tour on November 26th in his hometown of Nashville, Tenn. He also recently announced the "2 Friends" tour with Amy Grant, which marks the first time the two will tour together (for a non-holiday tour) in more than two decades. The multi-city U.S. tour will kick off in early February.
For more information on “A Simple Blessing; The Extraordinary Power of an Ordinary Prayer,” and Michael W. Smith, please visit http://www.michaelwsmith.com or http://www.zondervan.com/Cultures/en-US/Product/ProductDetail.htm?ProdID=com.zondervan.9780310327561&QueryStringSite=Zondervan.
Recently receiving his second Double Platinum and 7th Platinum RIAA certifications (Worship and Worship Again, respectively), industry leading recording artist Michael W. Smith releases his 22nd career project Wonder today, Sept. 28.
The anticipated 12-song collection is garnering attention from national media outlets including the Associated Press, Billboard magazine, FoxNews.com, SiriusXM, FOX NEWS Radio, Charisma magazine, The Baptist Press, Christian Retailing and is the subject of CCM Magazine's October cover story.
To top it off, Michael will spend Wonder’s street week in New York City doing radio and television interviews. Today, Smith will be a featured guest on FOX News Channel’s highly rated
“HANNITY” show as part of Sean Hannity’s “Great American Panel” (9:00 PM EST). The following morning he will be a featured performer during the 8:30 AM EST segment of “FOX & Friends." Check local listings for airtimes in your area.
For more information on Michael W. Smith, including up-to-date tour information and exclusive story-behind-the-song video clips, please visit www.michaelwsmith.com
As ticket sales continue to climb for one of the most anticipated tours of the year, World Vision’s Make A Difference Tour 2010 featuring New York Times best-selling author Max Lucado and GRAMMY® Award winners Michael W. Smith, TobyMac and Third Day, critically acclaimed singer/songwriter Jason Gray has been added to the roster as the tour’s opener. Gray joins the tour in support of his sophomore Centricity Music release, Everything Sad Is Coming Untrue, but will also play an important role for fans as the Make A Difference Tour’s “embedded video reporter,” charged with capturing exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and interviews that will be part of his weekly video blog from the road, posted exclusively on HearItFirst.com.
“I feel so honored to be a part of such a monumental tour,” Gray says. “To share the stage with such an amazing lineup (has there ever been a tour of this magnitude in the history of Christian music?) would be more than enough, but to get to join them on a tour where we work together to serve the poorest of the poor makes it that much sweeter and is ultimately what makes this tour significant.”
“We are so excited to partner with Max Lucado, Michael W. Smith, Third Day, TobyMac and the Make a Difference Tour to bring exclusive behind-the-scenes video content to fans every week from the road,” says HearItFirst.com Director of Content Jamie Wilson. “HearItFirst.com is honored to help increase awareness of World Vision’s mission, and as a passionate ambassador for World Vision, Jason Gray is the perfect spokesman for our video blog series. His heart for changing the world is evident as soon as you meet him and we’re delighted to have the opportunity to introduce him to our audience each week. We believe these fun, candid videos featuring all of the artists will truly show the heart and soul behind the Make a Difference Tour.”
“World Vision has been working with Jason Gray for eight years,” adds Jenny Lockwald, Executive Director, Artist Associates and Sponsor Engagement for World Vision. “In that time Jason has impacted the lives of thousands of children around the world and has made World Vision a major part of his music ministry and career. It was our pleasure to find a place for Jason on this tour because we know his heart and music are directly in line with the concept of making a difference. For those who have not yet had the opportunity to hear Jason, get prepared to become a fan. Jason is an amazing singer/songwriter who hits the mark with his soulful insights on what it means to live out Christianity every day.”
One of the most respected singer/songwriters in the Christian music business, Jason Gray released his latest studio project, Everything Sad Is Coming Untrue, in the fall of last year. Heralded by numerous media outlets, the project landed at No. 8 in CCM Magazine’s Top Ten best faith-based albums in 2009 and Worship Leader magazine says, “Gray’s songs don’t really work as background music, they demand to be listened to and considered.” Gray’s latest single, “More Like Falling In Love,” was his highest charting song that peaked at #4 on the Adult Contemporary chart. Gray has also been touring consistently in support of his current album, and with his soulful performances and heart-felt ministry (that is sometimes sprinkled with humorous anecdotes), he remains a fan favorite on the touring circuit. ( www.jasongraymusic.com)
Launching in Youngstown, Ohio on Sept. 30, and running through the end of October, tickets for the 20-city Make A Difference Tour 2010 are available now at all Ticketmaster outlets and other locations. Ticket options include a special VIP package featuring Gold Circle seats, a pre-show Q&A with all artists, a limited-edition Make A Difference Tour poster, a commemorative tour credential and a copy of the new book Outlive Your Life by Max Lucado. A complete list of tour dates, news, artist info, exclusive photos, videos and more resources are available online at www.MakeADifferenceTour.com. In addition, the tour’s official Facebook page is live at www.facebook.com/makeadifferencetour, and fans and supporters can follow the tour’s official Twitter feed at @MakeADiffTour to stay up to date on the latest news and exclusive content.
The “Make A Difference Tour 2010” will visit 20 U.S. cities during October, including:
09-30 Youngstown, OH Covelli Center
10-01 Corbin, KY Southeastern Kentucky Expo Center
10-02 Alpharetta, GA Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
10-03 Cape Girardeau, MO Show Me Center
10-07 Austin, TX The Theatre at the Frank Erwin Center
10-08 Beaumont, TX Ford Park Arena
10-09 Lafayette, LA Cajundome
10-10 Columbus, GA Columbus Civic Center
10-14 San Jose, CA HP Pavilion at San Jose
10-15 Bakersfield, CA Rabobank Arena
10-16 Ontario, CA Citizens Business Bank Arena
10-17 Glendale, AZ Jobing.com Arena
10-21 Colorado Springs, CO World Arena
10-22 Lubbock, TX United Spirit Arena
10-23 Wichita Falls, TX Kay Yeager Coliseum
10-24 Topeka, KS Kansas Expocentre
10-27 Cedar Rapids, IA US Cellular Center
10-28 Green Bay, WI Resch Center
10-29 Dayton, OH Nutter Center
10-30 Fayetteville, NC Crown Coliseum
* All dates are subject to change without notice.
Ever the creative risk taker and industry innovator, Reunion Records flagship artist Michael W. Smith begins a new decade by delivering the most powerful and personal album of his career, all while living out his faith with the unsurpassed energy and passion that defines him as a man.
With new 12-song project Wonder, Smith struggles with the disparities of life in the modern age: hope and hardship, confusion and confidence, desperation and dedication. Yet, through it all, he emits a musical and lyrical sense of… possibility. Continuously transformed by the impact of his global travels and the inspiration of his non-profit work (Compassion International, RCKTWN teen club, Nashville Rising, etc.), Smith pushes forward with strength and resolve, believing that Love does win in the end. It’s this sense of awe and amazement in the midst of the human condition that most aptly describes Wonder.
You’re everything I can’t explain.
You set my heart on fire.
And here I stand amazed.
You take my breath away (“Take My Breath Away”)
Rather than being whimsical or abstract, Wonder shows the legendary and multi-talented singer/songwriter/producer/composer pursuing life and faith with a genuine sense of curiosity, gratitude and determination. Intent to explore the world and his own heart as deeply as he can, Smith again lays bare his life for his listeners, sharing his thoughts, hopes and emotions on his newest and most compelling collection of songs.
If my scars could speak
They would say that grace is my only hope
Grace is showing me the way to where
All my shadows disappear and healing waits for me (“Run to You”)
Two songs provide a vulnerable lens into the intimacy of marriage as Smith speaks candidly of his feelings for wife Debbie: “You Belong to Me” tells of his love-at-first-sight encounter while “Forever Yours” reflects his romantic life-pledge. Another cut, “Welcome Home,” delves into both the deep grief of losing Debbie’s grandmother and the unrestrained joy of knowing she’s now arrived where she truly belongs.
Other highlight tracks include the project’s anthemic first single, “Save Me From Myself” (released to radio on 6/25), “Take My Breath Away,” “Leave,” “Run to You" and the prayerful, moving album closer, “Take Me Over.”
Musically, Smith continues his reign as Christian music’s finest innovator. From The Big Picture production values of his early years to sold-out arena tours to the unparalleled passion of his worship albums, Smith has proven time and again his leadership as the true trendsetter of creative vision and musical originality. This time Smith raises the bar even higher, re-teaming with longtime collaborator and producer Bryan Lenox (Freedom, This Is Your Time) to bring forth a rich, sonically expansive record. The production of the 12-song Wonder featured one of the first uses of Endless Analog’s CLASP system (for Closed Loop Analog Signal Processor), a device giving the producers new flexibility in linking up digital audio workstations with analog tape machines and imbuing Wonder’s final sound with a warmth and depth rarely heard in today’s musical marketplace.
Smith not only boldly engaged with new technology on this latest effort, he also challenged himself by teaming with a new band in the studio and partnering with several new writers (Kyle Lee, Michael Farren, Michael Olson, Stu G – formerly of Delirious? – as well as highly respected names like Matt Maher, Tommy Sims and Matthew West, among others.) to help communicate some of the most stirring and thought-provoking songs of his career.
Of course, his inventive and pioneering studio work aptly reflects the man himself. Never stagnant, ever vigilant, Michael W. Smith lives life to the fullest and approaches his relationship with God with the very same sense of wonder that titles his latest recording. Whether singing before thousands on a worldwide tour, sharing stories and songs on his sold-out Alaskan cruises, performing for sold-out arenas as part of the Hannity Freedom Concerts or volunteering his talents to benefit Nashville’s flood victims, Smith delivers a timeless message with heartfelt candor and conviction.
Wise to the ways of the world and heartbroken at the tragedies he witnesses all around, Michael W. Smith uses songs and stories to remind us all of where to find rest and comfort. With tremendous insight and expectation, Smith’s latest musical endeavor displays a powerful snapshot of the journey we are all on, a journey of Wonder.
GRAMMY, AMA and Dove Award winning artist, Michael W. Smith, performed two moving songs (“Place In This World” and “Bridge Over Troubled Water”) before a sold out crowd during last night’s “Nashville Rising” benefit concert.
The event, held at Bridgestone Arena, was spearheaded by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. Proceeds from the concert will benefit The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, which is working to address flood relief and recovery in Middle Tennessee. Event organizers expect to announce the total raised for flood relief tomorrow.
Artists on the lineup included: Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Billy Ray Cyrus, Miley Cyrus, Montgomery Gentry, Amy Grant, Faith Hill, Toby Keith, Miranda Lambert, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Martina McBride, Tim McGraw, LeAnn Rimes, Julie Roberts, Blake Shelton, Michael W. Smith, Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood and ZZ Top.
Special guests included: Academy Award winning actress Sandra Bullock, Governor Phil Bredesen, Mayor Karl Dean and Jeff Fisher, head coach of the NFL's Tennessee Titans.
Below is a link to footage from last night’s event, courtesy of Travis Television.
Nashville Rising http://downcastserver.com/rising.php
As one of the most beloved artists ever in gospel music, Michael W. Smith can easily be described as “well-traveled,” and a recent string of international appearances only underscores that.
Smith recently performed more than 20 shows around the world, beginning in late April with 11 appearances across Canada and continuing in mid-May with four shows in South Africa (followed by a quick stop in Zambia) and six shows in Brazil.
Smith started off the world tour with a string of sold out performances across Canada. In just two weeks, Smith traveled across the country from Montreal, Quebec, to Victoria, British Columbia and performed before a total audience of nearly 20,000 fans.
Smith’s next concert run took him halfway across the world to South Africa. Over four days, Smith gave four concerts drawing more than 23,000 fans. Smith’s latest project A New Hallelujah and its partner DVD, Michael W. Smith: A New Hallelujah – Live, were recently certified Gold by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RISA) with combined sales of more than 30,000. Five of his previous records have also been certified Gold or Platinum by RISA, evidence of his popularity. Smith concluded his stay on the African continent in Zambia, entertaining a crowd of 7,000 people before heading back across the Atlantic to Brazil.
Smith spent 10 days in the country stopping in the cities of Belo Horizonte, Aracaju, Cabo Frio and São Paulo. Smith performed six times in Brazil and ended his international tour with the concerts in São Paulo on June 2 and 3. More than 10,000 fans attended the two São Paolo concerts alone.
“Everyone who attended one of these concerts had a wonderful experience in God’s presence.” Mauricio Soares, Executive Director of Gospel Music at Sony Music Entertainment Brazil, said. “That’s why Michael continues to be one of the most important international Christian artists
in Brazil.”
Smith wrapped up his world tour with a stop in San Jose, Costa Rica. The actual last show of the tour was slated for Guatemala City, Guatemala which was postponed due to the volcano and hurricane. In response to the natural disasters to hit that country, Michael is returning to Guatemala on July 25th to perform a benefit concert to raise money in support of the victims of the storm and volcano.
“Smitty” will perform next week as part of the sold-out “Nashville Rising” concert at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena set for Tuesday, June 22. He joins artists including Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Brooks & Dunn, Amy Grant, Miley Cyrus, ZZ Top and more for a fundraiser benefiting The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and its ongoing flood recovery efforts. For more information on the “Nashville Rising” concert or to donate to CFMT, visit www.nashvillerising.org.
After a recent eco-friendly benefit fashion show in Downtown Nashville, multi-platinum selling, GRAMMY winning artist, Michael W. Smith greeted director James Cameron (Avatar, Titanic) and his wife Suzy along with Prophetik clothing designer, Jeff Garner. Proceeds from the show went to MUSE Elementary, a non-profit school founded by Suzy Amis Cameron, in Topanga, Calif. that teaches children how to live an environmentally conscious lifestyle.
Michael W. Smith is currently performing in cities across the globe on his "A New Hallelujah World Tour" and working on his 22nd album set to release later this year.
Artistic communities around the world continue to come together in efforts to aid the island nation of Haiti after the devastating earthquakes of January 12, 2010. Music City has done its part with the recent collaboration of the biggest names in Nashville’s own Country, Christian and Gospel music communities.
Multi-Platinum, GRAMMY and Dove Award winning artist Michael W. Smith gathered a community of Nashville-based artists on January 27 at Belmont University’s Ocean Way Studio to record “Come Together Now” – a song written by Smith, David Mullen and Cindy Morgan – to benefit Haiti relief efforts.
Released under the banner Music City Unites For Haiti (Various Artists), and with the studio’s, artists’ and musicians’ time all donated, proceeds from the single will go to designated charity and relief work through Samaritan’s Purse and American Red Cross.
The single is now available at all digital retailers.
Bringing aid and relief efforts to Haiti is a personal mission for Michael W. Smith, who has already traveled to the island with Samaritan’s Purse, a non-denominational evangelical Christian humanitarian organization, in the wake of the earthquake, and whose wife Debbie has done missionary work in the nation in the past.
“I’m deeply grateful to Michael for all his efforts to help those suffering in Haiti,” shares Franklin Graham, president and CEO of Samaritan’s Purse. “Every artist and every individual who can use their talent and ability to shed light on those in need, when it’s all added together, it makes a huge difference. My prayer is that God will use this song and video to touch the hearts of this nation to give generously to the people of Haiti.”
In addition, “Come Together Now” will be the lead track for the March 2nd Healing4Haiti, a full album project featuring songs by artists including Israel Houghton, DecembeRadio, Kari Jobe, The Afters, Hawk Nelson, Flyleaf’s Lacey Mosley, Canton Jones, Lincoln Brewster and Mary Mary. For more information on the album, please visit: www.samaritanspurse.org.
Artists part of “Come Together Now” Music City Unites for Haiti include:
Aaron Shust, Alathea, Amy Grant Vince Gill, Ashley Cleveland, Austins Bridge, Brandon Heath, Britt Nicole, Chris McClarney, Chris Rodriguez, Chris Sligh, Don Poythress, Dorothy Savage, Duane Allen, Echoing Angels, Everlife, Francesca Battistelli, Jaime Jamgochian, Jared Anderson, Jody Davis, John Schlitt, Kate Lazar, Katinas, Kevin Max, Kirk Sullivan, Lee Greenwood, Manic Drive, Margaret Becker, Mark Hall, Matt Dowley, Matthew West, Matt Maher, Meredith Andrews, Michael Tait, MIKESCHAIR, Mike Weaver, Paige Armstrong, Phil Stacey, Point of Grace, PureNRG, Rachael Lampa, Restless Heart, Selah, Steven Curtis Chapman, Toby Mac, Veronica Petrucci, Wynonna, and Yellow Cavalier.
Reunion Records flagship artist Michael W. Smith today picked up his latest industry award honor – a GMA Dove Award nomination in the Long Form Music Video of the Year category for the project “A New Hallelujah: The Live Worship DVD” – while previewing another video project close to his heart.
Acting as a presenter at the press conference to announce the nominees for the 41st Annual GMA Dove Awards, the veteran singer/songwriter/producer/worship leader also introduced the music video for the song “Come Together Now,” the multi-artist, genre-crossing song released under the banner Music City Unites For Haiti, recorded in late January at Belmont University’s Ocean Way Studios.
In addition, “Come Together Now” will be the lead track for the March 2nd Healing4Haiti, a full album project featuring songs by artists including Israel Houghton, DecembeRadio, Kari Jobe, The Afters, Hawk Nelson, Flyleaf’s Lacey Mosley, Canton Jones, Lincoln Brewster and Mary Mary. For more information on the album, please visit: www.samaritanspurse.org.
Yesterday at Belmont University’s Ocean Way Studios, multi-platinum, GRAMMY and Dove Award winning artist, Michael W. Smith gathered a who’s-who list from the music community to record “Come Together Now.” The song, penned by Smith, David Mullen and Cindy Morgan – and produced by Bryan Lenox – was written to remind people of the need to help those in Haiti.
“The crisis in Haiti has left us all trying to figure out how we can help,” shares Smith. “We wanted to create something that the community could support, for the greater good of those in Haiti. Everyone gave of their time: the studio was donated, the musicians donated their time and all proceeds from this song will go to designated charity/relief work through The American Red Cross and Samaritan’s Purse. It’s incredible to be part of something that is going to help
so many people.”
In addition to lending their voices in song, several artists also recorded PSA’s for The American Red Cross and Samaritan’s Purse for use in upcoming months.
Contributing artists include: Aaron Shust, Alathea, Amber Hezlep, Anthony Moreino, Anthony Skinner, Ashley Cleveland, Austins Bridge, B. Reith, Brady Toops, Brandon Heath, Britt Nicole, Byron Chambers, Calvin Nowell, Charmaine, Chris McClarney, Chris Sligh, Chuck Girard, Dana Jorgensen, Darwin Hobbs, David Mullen, Don Poythress, Donovan Tea, Dorothy Savage, Duane Allen, Echoing Angels, Everlife, Francesca Battistelli, Greg Jennings, Hillary McBride, Jaime Jamgochian, Jared Anderson, Jasmine Sagginario, Jason Baird, Jason Dunn, Jimmie Allen, Jody Davis, John Ford Coley, John Schlitt, Joseph Martino, Julia Ross, Justin Rivers, Kate Lazar, Kate Schettler, The Katinas, Kevin Max, Kirk Sullivan, Lara Landon, Lanae Hale, Lannie Anderson, Lee Greenwood, Mandisa, Manic Drive, Margaret Becker, Mark Hall and Megan Garrett of Casting Crowns, Matt Dowley, Matthew West, Matt Maher, Melinda Doolittle, Meredith Andrews, Michael Cavallo, Michael Olson, Michael Tait, Michael Tash, MIKESCHAIR, Mike Weaver, Natalie Grant, Nicole C. Mullen, The Oak Ridge Boys, Paige Armstrong, Phil Stacey, Point of Grace, PureNRG, Rachael Lampa, Rachel B. James, Reco Hight, Restless Heart, Ruben Mundo, Russ Mohr, Sarah Ross, Sarah Sadler, Selah, Shannon Cochran, Shawn Cavallo, Stephanie Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman, Terrence James, TobyMac, Tommy Coomes, Travis Cottrell, Trey Heffinger, Wynonna, and Yellow Cavalier. (Artist list subject to change.)
The song will be made available for sale soon, with all proceeds going to benefit relief efforts to Haiti. More details on the song’s release date are forthcoming.
Michael W. Smith wrapped up a successful run of tour dates on his A New Hallelujah Fall Tour with special guests Matt Maher, Phil Stacey and Meredith Andrews, this month. Immediately following this run of shows, he embarked on several sold-out It’s A Wonderful Christmas performances. Smith will head into the studio later this year to begin recording for a new project slated for a 2010 release. Visit www.michaelwsmith.com or www.providentpress.com for more information.
Before wrapping up the fall leg of the "New Hallelujah World Tour," Michael W. Smith and HearItFirst.com bring the show live to your home on Sunday, November 15 at 10pm eastern. For the first time ever, Smith's live set will be broadcast online live at HearItFirst.com (
http://www.HearItFirst.com/live). Fans can tune in before the show to watch exclusive video interviews with Michael W. Smith and the tour's special guests Matt Maher, Phil Stacey, and Meredith Andrews. Smith's tourmates will all be joining him on stage during his performance Sunday.
Previously, Smith has shared his enthusiasm about his tourmates, saying, "I’m excited about the artists traveling with me. Matt Maher, Phil Stacey and Meredith Andrews are all artists whose music I really enjoy personally, but they’re also artists I respect because they each have something special to share. I’m thrilled to be sharing the stage with them.”
The "New Hallelujah Tour" kicked off October 22 in Orlando, Fla. and will wrap up in Albany, NY on November 21. Michael W. Smith has toured extensively this year both on the "United Tour" with Steven Curtis Chapman and the "New Hallelujah World Tour" which took Smith's live show to Europe this summer.
After multiple successful broadcasts, including a live interview with Michael W. Smith in support of his CD A New Hallelujah last fall, HearItFirst.com is thrilled to partner again with Smith to bring this unique opportunity to the fans.
UPDATE:
Click here to visit the auction!
Porter’s Call, the Franklin, TN organization that offers free counsel, support and encouragement to recording artists and their families, has partnered with the premier celebrity auction website, www.clothesoffourback.org, to host an online celebrity auction September 14th – 30th. The auction’s direct link is www.clothesoffourback.org/porterscall.
The auction is an effort to sustain the organization’s long-term financial health and to continue to offer free services to the community of recording artists. More than 30 music and sports stars, television personalities and best-selling authors have donated several one-of-a-kind, autographed items for this auction. Some highlights include:
- Autographed Guitars from Tim McGraw, Brooks & Dunn, Gene Simmons, Steven Curtis Chapman, Mercy Me, and Paramore
- Autographed wardrobe items from Alan Jackson, Reba McEntire, Keith Urban, Big Kenny, Michael W. Smith and tobyMac
- Concert and meet & greet packages from Casting Crowns, Diamond Rio and Mandisa
- Titans and Predators tickets with special passes
- Framed autographed handwritten lyrics from Vince Gill and Amy Grant
- Autographed books from Mike Huckabee, Steve Harvey and Rick & Bubba
- Other autographed items from Jonas Brothers, Kenny Chesney, Carrie Underwood, Billy Bob Thornton, Alison Krauss, Gretchen Wilson, Sara Evans and Josh Turner
“We are so grateful for the overwhelming show of support we’ve received from the participating artists-many of whom we’ve never met,” said Porter’s Call founder Al Andrews. “This auction collection holds a diverse and unique array of items that is sure to excite and delight their fans. While we know these items will raise significant funds to further the work of Porter’s Call, we hope that awareness for the service we provide is already rising significantly within the music community and that we will be able to serve more artists in the months to come.”
Started 9 years ago with an initial grant, Porter’s Call was created to meet a need to come alongside artists in their pilgrimage of life and music and faith. Because of this, many artists are able to avoid the pitfalls so common in the industry. Since its doors opened, Porter’s Call has offered its service at no charge to artists. This has been made possible through the generous support of record labels, artists and those working throughout various facets of the music industry.
Located in an historic home in Franklin, TN, it’s a safe and confidential place for artists where questions can be asked and explored; where broken lives can be restored and healed; where God can be encountered and discovered; where creative gifts can be deepened and enhanced.
Counselors Al and Nita Andrews have welcomed almost 500 artists through their doors since its inception.
The Clothes Off Our Back Foundation is a 501c3 organization that hosts charity auctions showcasing today's hottest celebrity attire. Items are put up for bid to the public with proceeds going to benefit children's charities. Clothes Off Our Back was founded by actors and philanthropists Jane Kaczmarek ("Malcolm In The Middle," "Raising the Bar") and Bradley Whitford ("The West Wing," "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip") whose efforts, along with their celebrity and designer friends have helped improve the lives of children across the globe. For more information and to bid, log onto www.clothesoffourback.org.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – August 26, 2009 – Following a successful run in 12 European countries over the summer, GRAMMY® award-winning and multi-Platinum selling artist Michael W. Smith will bring his “New Hallelujah World Tour” to the U.S. this fall. Traveling to major markets across the nation in October and November, the tour will feature some very special guests including renowned artist/worshipper Matt Maher, “American Idol” alum Phil Stacey and new artist/worship leader Meredith Andrews.
“The ‘New Hallelujah World Tour’ has taken us all over the U.S., Canada and Europe,” Smith says. “This last leg will bring us back to the States and I’m excited about the artists traveling with me. Matt Maher, Phil Stacey and Meredith Andrews are all artists whose music I really enjoy personally, but they’re also artists I respect because they each have something special to share. I’m thrilled to be sharing the stage with them.”
Kicking off Oct. 22, in Orlando, Fla., the “New Hallelujah World Tour” will introduce a new element to the U.S. tour dates by adding local voices from the community. Each concert will feature a mass community choir comprised of local vocalists and choir members from multiple churches throughout the surrounding area. The choirs will join Smith as he performs classic fan favorites as well as music from his award-winning album A New Hallelujah (10/28/2008) and A New Hallelujah – The Live Worship DVD (3/17/2009).
The “New Hallelujah World Tour” will be sponsored PraiseHymn.com. A pioneer in the accompaniment track industry, Praise Hymn Tracks was introduced in 1988 and now celebrates two decades of providing music to accompany millions of hymn and contemporary worship singers. The company recently unveiled the new PraiseHymn.com website, a comprehensive source of music and interaction for singers. The site offers Praise Hymn’s catalog of nearly 5,000 Christian titles – from out-of-print songs to the latest radio hits – both via download and physical product shipping. It also serves as a multi-faceted interactive experience for vocalists both casual and professional. And, consistent with past tours, this fall segment will also focus on Smith’s long-time ministry partner Compassion International (www.compassion.com).
It’s been a busy year for Smith, who kicked off 2009 co-headlining the highly-successful “United Tour” with friend and fellow artist Steven Curtis Chapman. In April, Smith’s A New Hallelujah album won the Gospel Music Association’s Dove Award for Praise & Worship Album of the Year and Inspirational Song of the Year (title track). The summer brought the European leg of the “New Hallelujah World Tour,” and Smith has since been performing at a number of high-profile events across the country. Most recently he has been a featured performer at all eight of Sean Hannity’s “2009 Freedom Concerts,” which have also featured Billy Ray Cyrus, Charlie Daniels, Lee Greenwood and Oliver North.
Matt Maher joins the tour each night as musical host of the concert’s first half, and in support of his brand new sophomore release Alive Again (Sept. 22), on Essential Records. The 12-song album, produced by Christopher Stevens (Delirious, tobyMac) and Paul Moak (Mat Kearney, CompassionArt), features Maher’s addictive organic-pop sound. Audiences will know him best for his breakout composition “Your Grace Is Enough,” which has become a worship standard in Sunday morning church services worldwide.
Billboard magazine hailed Meredith Andrews as one of 2008’s “Faces to Watch,” when she released her debut worship project, The Invitation, on Word Records last year. The album featured the hit single “You’re Not Alone,” which vaulted to No. 1 on R&R’s Inspirational Chart and became a Top 5 hit on the Christian AC Chart. The album also garnered two 2009 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards for Worship Song of the Year and Praise & Worship Album of the Year. Andrews is sure to wow audiences with her soaring vocals as she performs some of the self-penned selections from her debut release.
“American Idol” Season 6 Top 5 finalist Phil Stacey recently finished recording his new 11-track album Into the Light (Aug. 25), which showcases his acclaimed power vocals and songwriting chops. Produced by Brown Bannister (Amy Grant, Mandisa, Steven Curtis Chapman), Into the Light artfully taps Stacey’s longtime love for the church and is his first modern pop offering on Reunion Records.
GRAMMY® award-winning and multi-platinum selling artist Michael W. Smith recently completed the highly successful European leg of his "New Hallelujah World Tour."
While Smith's "World Tour" started May 18 in Ontario, Canada, the European run of 19 dates kicked off three days later in Finland. Along the way, Smith performed in Sweden, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Latvia, Estonia, Germany, Spain, Italy, Hungary and Holland before concluding in Paris, France on June 14. Smith's stops in Spain, Latvia and Hungary marked his first ever performances in those countries.
Smith performed to a sold out crowd in Jönköping, Sweden, bringing a life-changing night of worship to those who attended. Tomas Lindéh, a promoter for the event and manager for Another Level Productions says, “Michael and the band really connected with the crowd, and a fantastic night of worship took place. At times Michael got silent and let the 200 person local choir sing together with the audience the same lyrics but in Swedish. It was really powerful.”
European fans expressed their support for Smith by attending his concerts in droves. "The European dates had enormous crowds--especially in Finland, the UK, Latvia, Hungary, Sweden, and for Michael's two performances for Franklin Graham's crusades in Estonia," says Michael’s longtime manager, Chaz Corzine. "And the ministry in France, Switzerland, Italy and Spain was just amazing."
Smith performed classic fan favorites as well as music from his award winning A New Hallelujah album, and A New Hallelujah – The Live Worship DVD.
Smith also performed in front of 30,000 fans when he headlined this year's EO Youth Day in Holland. The annual gathering, which has been described as "the biggest event in Dutch Gospel history," was broadcast to more than 1 million television viewers.
Musical director for the event, Tim Dik, says, “Michael is unique because he appeals to all generations, young and old. He is a real worshipper who is more passionate and committed than ever before to impact Europe and the Netherlands. It was a great blessing to have him back this year!”
The night before EO Youth Day, Smith performed in the same venue for 12,500 people who attended exclusively to see him.
Michael W. Smith has toured extensively for over 25 years, but says he will remember this tour as one of his favorites. "The Europe leg of the 'New Hallelujah World Tour' was absolutely one of the most memorable tours of my life," says Smith. "The crowds were amazing, the ministry was off the chart. The European crowds love the music and are so passionate about worship. I’ll never forget the experiences from this incredible tour."
Smith's European adventures began shortly after he saw his A New Hallelujah album win the Gospel Music Association's Dove Awards for "Praise & Worship Album of the Year" and "Inspirational Song of the Year" (title track).
After Smith's high profile shows during this summer's festival season, the "New Hallelujah World Tour" will continue in August and include performances at all eight of Sean Hannity's "2009 Freedom Concerts," which will also feature Billy Ray Cyrus, Charlie Daniels, Lee Greenwood and Oliver North. (For specific tour dates, please visit www.michaelwsmith.com)
GRAMMY® award-winning and multi-platinum selling artists Steven Curtis Chapman and Michael W. Smith wrapped up their highly successful United Tour last week, finishing a string of 44 shows with sell-out performances at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium and in Chapman’s hometown of Paducah, Kentucky. That capped off multiple sell-outs on a historic tour that began last fall and continued into the spring, pairing the two iconic artists for the first time in their lengthy careers in front of a cumulative audience of more than 100,000 people.
Both artists performed music from their current albums – Chapman’s This Moment and Smith’s award winning A New Hallelujah, and A New Hallelujah – The Live Worship DVD – while also collaborating together on songs from each of their expansive catalogs. Those collaborative moments on stage became crowd-pleasers each night, giving fans an opportunity to catch shared glimpses of humor and inspiration between the two long-time friends. Concert reviewers caught on quickly to the special moments:
“From the honesty and transparency of discussing his daughter's death to the energy and passion of their greatest songs to the warmth and joy in a loyal audience, Steven Curtis Chapman's pairing with Michael W. Smith on their current tour is a night of inspiration, unity and family…. If your Christian faith is important to you, this is a night that's as worshipful as it is wonderful and it's certainly for you.” (Belief.net)
“Hopefully this won't be the last time Smith and Chapman share the stage on tour together... and hopefully more artists will take cues from these guys on how to make a tour of talent a special night for fans to remember and cherish.” (JesusFreakHideout.com)
“When you get a ticket to a concert featuring Michael W. Smith and Steven Curtis Chapman, there are moments you hope for… These were moments that remind you iconic artists are fully capable of appreciating other iconic artists’ work.” (Rich Copley, Lexington Herald-Leader)
Creative Artist Agency’s John Huie notes, “The United Tour exceeded all our expectations. The way these two iconic statesmen of Christian music intertwined their sets and enjoyed singing each other’s songs is part of the creative process that is missing from a lot of live shows! Three cheers for Steven Curtis Chapman and Michael W. Smith for their history of great work and their humble ability to share it together! For those who were able to see it, this show was truly a night no one will forget!”
“Sharing the stage with Steven, both in the fall and again in the spring, was a privilege for me,” Smith says. “His consistency over the years as a great artist and a great man of faith was evident every single night of the tour. I feel like the timing of this tour, the timing for Steven and I to share the stage together, was God’s timing – and it was worth the wait. I’m so grateful to everyone who came out for the experience. Steven and I will never forget it.”
“The United Tour has been an incredible experience, and how amazing to get to tour with Michael,” Chapman adds. “He was an incredible friend and brother in walking through this time with our family. It’s been a profound opportunity to see friends around the country who have ached and prayed for us and thank them in person. And it’s been important and meaningful for me to declare these truths in my songs again. I think all of us that were part of ‘United’ have learned again at a deeper level the truth of what we’ve been writing and singing all these years... that God is faithful, even when life is hard, and that the Gospel is true and God is worthy of our praise. My sincere thanks to all who worked on stage and off stage, and to all who came to join us on The United Tour.”
Two of Christian Music’s most recognized and beloved artists, Chapman and Smith ended The United Tour on the heels of major Dove Award wins for both of them. Chapman took home the honors for the Gospel Music Association’s Artist of the Year and Songwriter of the Year, while Smith’s A New Hallelujah was named Praise & Worship Album of the Year as well as Inspirational Song of the Year. Together, the two artists have garnered a staggering eight GRAMMY ® awards, 100 Dove Awards, 78 No. 1 singles and more than 30 gold and platinum albums.
Show Hope™, the orphan care ministry originally founded by Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman, was the sponsor for the United Tour's 2009 spring leg. The tour’s response was overwhelming as over 2,400 individuals and families made monthly commitments to sponsor orphan care and adoption. With a mission to share the message of caring for the world’s orphans, Show Hope sponsors will be able to help more orphans than ever before find their forever families. Since its inception, Show Hope has financially helped provide forever homes for over 2,000 orphans from 40 countries, including the U.S. The ministry receives over 150 new adoption assistance requests each month. In addition to those needs, financial support to Show Hope also provides medical care, love and hope to orphans, and specifically special needs orphans at Maria’s Big House of Hope in Luoyang, China, which will house over 100 orphans at full capacity. For more information on how you can support the needs of Show Hope, please visit www.ShowHope.org.
Smith’s long-time ministry partner Compassion International (www.compassion.com) was able to benefit during the fall leg of The United Tour. More than 2,000 orphaned children in Compassion’s program around the world were sponsored as a result of the tour’s first 20 dates. “The fact that literally thousands of orphaned children’s lives were impacted through Compassion International in the fall and Show Hope in the spring is just an added blessing that came about through this tour,” Smith says.
The United Tour also formed a unique partnership with HearItFirst.com. With nearly 200,000 members, HIF proved itself the premiere online destination for behind-the-scenes videos and artist interviews with exclusive United Tour content featuring video of Steven and Michael interviewing each other. HearItFirst.com also partnered with the tour via a home page takeover, information to its members through its weekly newsletter, and a contest that won HIF fans free seats and backstage meet & greet passes in each city.
(Nashville, Tenn.) April 24, 2009 – Industry leader Michael W. Smith, was honored last night at the 40th Annual GMA Dove Awards not only with two trophies recognizing his musical offerings, but for his overall contribution to Gospel Music as a new member of the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.
Smith was recognized in the Praise & Worship Album category, as both artist and producer, for his A New Hallelujah project. The live CD released on October 28, 2008 and is quickly approaching the 250,000 sales mark. Smith also received a trophy in the Inspirational Recorded Song category for the album’s moving title track “A New Hallelujah” which honored his roles as both artist and writer.
During the show, Smith was recognized as a recent inductee to the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. The ceremony took place earlier this year and included Dolly Parton, Dr. Bobby Jones, The Dixie Hummingbirds and Lari Goss.
Michael W. Smith heads out this weekend for the remainder of the United Tour dates with friend Steven Curtis Chapman. For dates and markets, please visit www.michaelwsmith.com.
(Nashville, Tenn.) March 27, 2009 – Following the impressive launch of A New Hallelujah (10/28/08), Michael W. Smith follows up with A New Hallelujah – The Live Worship DVD. The DVD project debuted at the top of the Nielsen Christian DVD SoundScan chart and the CD reclaimed its No. 1 position on the Nielsen Christian Albums chart.
The new DVD is the video companion to Smith’s latest record, and third worship album, A New Hallelujah. Recorded live in Houston last summer before12,000 people, a 250-voice choir and several special guests including the African Children’s Choir and 2008 GRAMMY Award-winner, Israel Houghton, this DVD captures the powerful experience of the evening’s worship in high-definition. The 90-minute long project features all 13 songs from A New Hallelujah, plus four new tracks and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage.
Smith’s first worship album, simply titled Worship, released on September 11, 2001, and has sold more than a 1.5 million copies. Its follow up Worship Again released September 19, 2002, and is nearing the 800,000 mark.
Michael W. Smith embarks on the United Tour, with friend Steven Curtis Chapman, this weekend. For dates and markets, please visit www.michaelwsmith.com.
Michael W. Smith visited a number of European countries
last week in an unprecedented promotional tour for his new project A New Hallelujah – The Live Worship DVD.
Making stops in the United Kingdom, Germany, Norway and The Netherlands, Smith
shared the heart behind his project and showed selections of the new DVD to
select retailers, promoters and media. “This was an amazing opportunity to let
people get a first-hand impression of the vision behind a project like this,”
said Leon van Steensel, promotion & publicity manager for GMI Music in the
Netherlands. “The response has been overwhelming.” A New Hallelujah –The Live Worship DVD
releases March 17.
To learn more about Michael W. Smith, please visit: www.michaelwsmith.com.
Following a successful run of 2008 fall dates which included multiple sold-out performances, GRAMMY® award-winning and multi-Platinum selling artists Michael W. Smith and Steven Curtis Chapman will once again hit the road together for the spring leg of “The United Tour.” Kicking off March 28, in Chattanooga, the tour will hit 24 cities across the country including Cleveland, Baltimore, Visalia, Colorado Springs, Little Rock, Indianapolis, Lexington, Nashville and more.
This unique tour showcases two of Christian Music’s most recognized and beloved artists. Together, Chapman and Smith have garnered a staggering eight GRAMMY ® awards, 96 Dove Awards, 78 No. 1 singles and more than 30 gold and platinum albums. The idea for the tour came together shortly after Chapman and Smith spent time together in the UK working on the CompassionArt project that brought more than 10 of Christian Music’s most revered singers, songwriters and worship leaders together to write and record a collection of songs for charity.
The United Tour marks the first time Smith and Chapman have ever toured together, with both artists performing music from their current albums: Chapman’s This Moment and Smith’s A New Hallelujah. The tour took them into 20 major markets last fall, with a cumulative audience of more than 50,000.
In addition to uniting on stage, the two artists are also bringing their ministry passions together. Through a groundbreaking partnership, Chapman’s ministry dedicated to orphan care, Shaohannah’s Hope (www.showhope.org), and Smith’s long-time ministry partner Compassion International (www.compassion.com) will benefit from the tour. More than 2,000 orphaned children in Compassion’s program around the world were sponsored as a result of the tour’s first 20 dates. This spring, Shaohannah’s Hope and their efforts to assisting families who desire to adopt will receive the tour’s charity focus.
About Michael W. Smith:
Throughout his 25-year career as a recording artist, Michael W. Smith has amassed an impressive catalog of achievements. His 20 albums have garnered multiple honors including an American Music Award, three GRAMMY ® Awards (from 13 nominations), 42 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards and 33 No. 1 radio hits. In addition, he holds 16 Gold and five platinum albums for career sales approaching 15 million.
Smith, who was recently inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, has scored several film projects, written 11 books and has been featured by media outlets including, NBC’s Today Show, Good Morning America, NBC Nightly News, Larry King Live, FOX and Friends, Hannity and Colmes, USA Today, NY Times, The Washington Post, LA Times, Newsweek, has been named one of People Magazine’s Most Beautiful People and has presented multiple times on the GRAMMY Awards show. His tours consistently rank among the best attended in the country and he has performed to capacity crowds throughout the world. Constantly giving back to the community, one of his current projects is Rocketown--a nightclub for teens in his hometown of Nashville, Tenn.--which serves as safe place for young people to enjoy music and for artists to be discovered. He and wife Debbie Smith are the proud parents of five children.
Michael W. Smith’s 21st album (and third worship project), A New Hallelujah, was recorded live before more than 12,000 in attendance with a choir of 250 and a few very special guests including The African Children’s Choir and worship leader Israel Houghton. Smith will release A New Hallelujah – The Live Worship DVD on March 17. Smith’s first worship album, simply titled Worship, released in 2001 and has sold more than a million-and-a half copies. Its 2002 follow up, Worship Again, is nearing the 800,000 mark. For up-to-date information on Michael W. Smith, please visit www.michaelwsmith.com.
About Steven Curtis Chapman:
Steven Curtis Chapman has sold over 10 million records including two RIAA-certified platinum albums and seven RIAA-certified gold albums. Along with his Dove and GRAMMY ® awards, Chapman has won an American Music Award, recorded 45 No. 1 US radio hits and been awarded 54 Dove Awards, more than any other artist to date. Since his recording career began in 1987, he has recorded 16 projects with Sparrow Records.
Chapman 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, CBS Sunday Morning, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and more. More than five years ago, Chapman and his wife Mary Beth created Shaohannah’s Hope after bringing their first adopted daughter, Shaohannah, home from China. The ministry’s goal is to help families reduce the financial barrier of adoption, and has provided grants to over 1800 families wishing to adopt orphans from around the world. For further information on Shaohannah’s Hope the adoption ministry of Steven Curtis Chapman, please visit: www.stevencurtischapman.com.
Chapman recently achieved his 45th No. 1 single with “Yours,” which topped R&R’s soft AC chart. The third single from This Moment, “Yours (new verse)” is available digitally with an additional verse written and recorded after the loss of his daughter. “Yours” follows the hit Christian and mainstream single “Cinderella” a song written by Chapman compelling us to cherish every moment to the fullest with those that we love, especially our children.
“THE UNITED TOUR” Spring 2009
*Dates, markets and venues subject to change without notice.
MARCH
3/28 Chattanooga, TN Abba's House
3/29 West Lafayette, IN Elliott Hall of Music
3/30 Springfield, MO Hammons Student Center
APRIL
4/1 Cleveland, OH Allen Theatre
4/2 Baltimore, MD The Hippodrome
4/3 Utica, NY Stanley Theater at Utica College
4/4 Wilkes Barre, PA FM Kirby Center
4/5 Norfolk, VA Chrysler Hall Theatre
4/9 Santa Rosa, CA Wells Fargo Center for the Arts
4/10 Visalia, CA Visalia Conv. & Concert Center
4/11 Long Beach, CA Terrace Theater
4/12 Palm Desert, CA McCallum Theater of PA
4/14 Colorado Springs, CO Pikes Peak Center
4/16 Bismarck, ND Bismark Civic Center
4/17 Sioux City, IA Orpheum Theatre
4/18 Peoria, IL Peoria Civic Center
4/19 Little Rock, AR Robinson Center Music Hall
4/21 Holland, MI Central Wesleyan Church
4/22 Indianapolis, IN Murat Theatre
4/25 St. Peters, MO Church on the Rock
4/26 Lexington, KY Theatre at Rupp Arena
4/28 Nashville, TN Ryman Auditorium
4/29 Charleston, WV Charleston Municipal Aud.
4/30 Paducah, KY Carson Four Rivers Center
(Nashville, Tenn.) February 20, 2009 – Michael W. Smith, one of Christian music’s most revered artists, released his 21st album A New Hallelujah on October 28 amid fan and industry acclaim. Today Michael was honored with three nominations directly tied to this incredible project. A New Hallelujah received a nod in the Praise & Worship Album of the Year category, where he is recognized as artist and producer, and in the Inspirational Recorded Song and Worship Song categories for the moving title track, “A New Hallelujah.”
In addition, Smith was also credited for his contribution to Billy: The Early Years Official Motion Picture Soundtrack which was nominated in the Special Event Album category.
On March 17, Smith will release A New Hallelujah – The Live Worship DVD. This new DVD is the video companion to A New Hallelujah. Recorded live in Houston last summer before12,000 people, a 250-voice choir and several special guests including the African Children’s Choir and 2008 GRAMMY Award-winner, Israel Houghton, this DVD captures the powerful experience of the evening’s worship in high-definition. The 90-minute long project features all 13 songs from A New Hallelujah, plus four new tracks and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage.
Following the busy DVD launch week, Michael W. Smith and Steven Curtis Chapman will once again hit the road together for the spring leg of “The United Tour.” Kicking off March 28, in Chattanooga, the tour will hit 24 cities across the country including Cleveland, Baltimore, Visalia, Colorado Springs, Little Rock, Indianapolis, Lexington, Nashville and more. For an updated tour itinerary, please visit www.michaelwsmith.com.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Feb. 4, 2009 -- The GMA Foundation (GMAF) inducted artists Michael W. Smith, Dolly Parton, Dr. Bobby Jones and The Dixie Hummingbirds along with music producer Lari Goss into the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame on Feb. 2, 2009 at a ceremony at Richland Country Club in Nashville.
The GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame was established in 1971 and has inducted more than 150 members since its inception, including 2007 inductees Phil Keaggy, The Statler Brothers, The Winans and Joe Moscheo. Previous inductees include Elvis Presley, Mahalia Jackson, Keith Green, Amy Grant, the Blind Boys of Alabama, Andrae Crouch, Sandi Patty, Vestal Goodman, Tennessee Ernie Ford, 2nd Chapter of Acts, The Oak Ridge Boys, Petra, Bill and Gloria Gaither, the Rambos, Evie, Richard Smallwood, Jake Hess, The Lewis Family, Thomas A. Dorsey, the Fairfield Four, Billy Graham and the Jordanaires.
On the heels of an incredibly successful 2008, including having one of the top-selling and most acclaimed projects of the year and the announcement of his upcoming induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame (2/2/09), Michael W. Smith releases A New Hallelujah – The Live Worship DVD on March 17.
This new DVD is the video companion to Smith’s newest record, and third worship album,
A New Hallelujah. Recorded live in Houston last summer before12,000 people, a 250-voice choir and several special guests including the African Children’s Choir and 2008 GRAMMY Award-winner, Israel Houghton, this DVD captures the powerful experience of the evening’s worship in high-definition. The 90-minute long project features all 13 songs from A New Hallelujah (10/28/08), plus four new tracks and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage.
Steve Gilreath, the DVD’s director, notes, “This project truly makes you feel like you were in the room that night, and the HD quality only adds to the experience. It’s amazing how you can feel the room ebb and flow as the evening progresses. This really is more of an ‘experience’ project than a standard DVD.”
Smith’s first worship album, simply titled Worship, released on September 11, 2001, and has sold more than a 1.5 million copies. Its follow up Worship Again released September 19, 2002, and is nearing the 800,000 mark.
About Michael W. Smith
Michael W. Smith has amassed an impressive catalog of achievements. His 20 prior albums have garnered multiple honors including an American Music Award, 3 GRAMMY® Awards (from 13 nominations) and 42 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards, and 33 No. 1 radio hits. In addition, he holds 16 Gold and 5 Platinum albums and career sales approaching 15 million.
Over his 25-year career, Smith has used his platform as a leader and acclaimed entertainer to serve, teach, and lead offstage. Constantly giving back to the community, one of his current projects is Rocketown -- a nightclub for teens in his hometown of Nashville, Tenn. -- which serves as a safe place for young people to enjoy music and for artists to be discovered. He is married to Debbie Smith and they are the proud parents of five children. For up-to-date information on Michael W. Smith, please visit www.michaelwsmith.com or www.reunionrecords.com.
The GMA Foundation (GMAF)
will induct artists Michael W. Smith, Dolly Parton, Dr. Bobby Jones
and The Dixie Hummingbirds along with music producer Lari
Goss into the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame on Feb. 2, 2009. “This
year’s class of GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame inductees have all achieved great
professional and personal success in many different areas of the music and
entertainment industries, but each shares a common heritage of the Gospel’s
powerful impact on their lives,” said John Styll, president and CEO of the
GMAF. To learn more about Michael W. Smith, please visit: www.michaelwsmith.com.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – January 7, 2009 -- The GMA Foundation (GMAF) will induct artists Michael W. Smith, Dolly Parton, Dr. Bobby Jones and The Dixie Hummingbirds along with music producer Lari Goss into the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame on Feb. 2, 2009, announced John W. Styll, president and CEO of the GMAF.
The GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Dinner will be held on Monday, Feb. 2, 2009 at The Richland Country Club in Nashville. The evening will begin at 6:30pm with a medallion ceremony and reception, followed by the induction ceremony and dinner which will begin at 7:30pm. Tickets are $150, and they can be reserved by calling 615-277-1366 through January 23 (while available). The Imperials, featuring the original back-up singers for Elvis Presley and Hall of Fame members, will provide entertainment for the event.
"This year’s class of GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame inductees have all achieved great professional and personal success in many different areas of the music and entertainment industries, but each shares a common heritage of the Gospel’s powerful impact on their lives,” said Styll.
The GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame was established in 1971 and has inducted more than 150 members since its inception, including 2007 inductees Phil Keaggy, The Statler Brothers, The Winans and Joe Moscheo. Previous inductees include Elvis Presley, Mahalia Jackson, Keith Green, Amy Grant, the Blind Boys of Alabama, Andrae Crouch, Sandi Patty, Vestal Goodman, Tennessee Ernie Ford, 2nd Chapter of Acts, The Oak Ridge Boys, Petra, Bill and Gloria Gaither, the Rambos, Evie, Richard Smallwood, Jake Hess, The Lewis Family, Thomas A. Dorsey, the Fairfield Four, Billy Graham and the Jordanaires.
(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) November 11, 2008 – Two GRAMMY® award-winning and multi-Platinum selling artists, Steven Curtis Chapman and Michael W. Smith joined forces for the “The United Tour” which concluded in St. Augustine, Fl. on November 8.
Smith and Chapman performed together in 20 major markets with 14 completely sold out shows and a cumulative audience of more than 50,000. In addition to uniting on stage, the two also brought their ministry passions together. Through a ground breaking partnership between Chapman’s ministry dedicated to orphan care, Shaohannah’s Hope (www.ShowHope.org) and Smith’s long-time ministry partner, Compassion International (www.compassion.com) more than 2,000 orphaned children in Compassion’s program around the world were sponsored as a result of the tour.
Andrew Kaplan, with Chicago-based JAM concerts, shared, “Each of these beautiful evening
concerts offered terrific variety. Fans were very moved and there was such a feeling of community in the room.”
“This has truly been one of the greatest tours we’ve had the privilege to participate in,” said Chaz Corzine, Michael W. Smith’s manager. “Michael and Steven have been friends for years and really connected on a creative level while overseas together working on the Compassionart project. I think they have such great respect for each other and each other’s music; it was inevitable they’d eventually work together.”
“We’re grateful to have been a part of this memorable and historic event,” commented Chapman’s manager Jim Houser. “The collaboration and partnership on tour of these two incredible men was a long time coming, but well worth the wait.”
Chapman commented, “This time on the road with my great friend and touring partner Michael was truly a gift. In this difficult season, I wasn’t sure how I would be able to do it. I’m grateful to all involved and look forward to the chance to join together again soon.”
Smith, shared, “This was one of the most special tours I’ve been on. While this was a big tour, Steven and I, along with our families, got to connect with so many people on a personal level. It’s a tour I’d love to do again very soon.”
The upcoming “It’s A Wonderful Christmas” Tour, featuring Melinda Doolittle, will launch on November 29 in Youngstown, OH and will play 16 shows in 13 markets before wrapping up in Phoenix, Ariz. on December 19th. Tickets for this tour are already on sale. Further information can be found on www.michaelwsmith.com
This past week, the third single off Chapman’s most recent release This Moment, ”Yours” topped R&R’s soft AC chart. It is Steven Curtis Chapman’s 45th No. 1 single. “Yours” also climbed further into the top 10 at R&R’s AC chart. “Yours (new verse)” is available digitally with an additional verse written and recorded after the loss of his daughter that allowed Chapman to acknowledge his experience. “Yours” follows the hit Christian and mainstream single “Cinderella” a song written by Chapman compelling us to cherish every moment to the fullest with those that we love, especially our children.
(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) November 5, 2008 – Michael W. Smith’s 21st album A New Hallelujah (10/28) debuted today at No.1 on the Nielsen SoundScan Christian Albums Chart with more than 23,000 in first week sales. On March 17, 2009, Smith will unveil an accompanying DVD of the moving worship event.
The album, recorded live in Houston on June 20 before an audience of more than 12,000, is receiving incredible reviews by media outlets such as Billboard Magazine who says, “The veteran artist raised the bar yet again with A New Hallelujah…”
Additional reviews and quotes supporting this sentiment include:
There’s something magical that takes place when Smitty gets behind the keyboard and leads people in corporate worship. A New Hallelujah solidifies the fact that Smith was born to be a worship leader. As one of Christian music’s most beloved artists, he continues to draw people closer to the One he lifts up through his music.
- Lindsay Williams, Editor, CCM Magazine
With all the skill of a veteran artist and the passion of a music minister, Smith has blessed the church once again with A New Hallelujah. This release is everything that modern worship offerings need to be: authentic, inspiring and Christ centered. Michael W. Smith is a worship leader.
- Phil Sillas, Managing Editor, Song Discovery
It’s obvious that Smitty’s heart lies with worship leading these days, and he’s extremely good at it as anyone who’s attended Gospel Music Week already knows. The millions who were blessed by his first Worship project years ago will be equally affected by A New Hallelujah.
- Russ Breimeier, ChristianityToday.com
I couldn’t help but find myself worshiping while listening. You’ll want to listen straight through to get the whole experience. … Overall, this is a yet another strong worship release from the seasoned veteran. … Those trying to break into the overpopulated worship genre by bringing the typical fare should use this as a “How To” guide in doing it right.
- Matt Johnson, Jesusfreakhideout.com
A New Hallelujah, Michael W. Smith’s latest offering, and third worship album, features The African Children’s Choir, 2008 GRAMMY Award-Winner, Israel Houghton and a 250-voice choir.
Smith’s first worship album, simply titled Worship, released on September 11, 2001, and has sold more than a-million-and-a half copies. It’s follow up Worship Again released September 19, 2002, and is nearing the 800,000 mark.
(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) October 27, 2008 – Recently honored by friends including Amy Grant, Jordin Sparks, Ricky Skaggs, Melinda Doolittle, Phil Stacey, Wynonna, Franklin Graham, Max Lucado and others at a tribute event at Nashville’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center on Oct. 12, Michael W. Smith is busy readying for the release of his 21st career album, A New Hallelujah, on Tuesday, Oct. 28.
The album, recorded live in Houston on June 20 before 12,000 people, has already received acclaim from media and fans alike, and the album’s first single, “A New Hallelujah” is currently in Top 15 at AC on the CRW chart and No. 17 on R & R’s Christian AC Monitored chart and just surpassed the 60 million cumulative impressions mark in only 11 weeks.
In addition, Smith’s co-bill tour with Steven Curtis Chapman “The United Tour” has sold out in more than 75 percent of the markets it’s visited since its launch on Oct. 9 in Columbus, Ohio.
Bob Thornton, Promotions Director at the award winning KXOJ in Tulsa, Ok. shares, “Hallelujah! I watched a sold out crowd sing along every word of ‘A New Hallelujah’ and enjoy every moment of the United Tour. This was not the end of the book for these two great artists but the beginning of a great new chapter.”
In addition to the impact on the road and airwaves, Michael has seen incredible feedback on his short-form music video to “A New Hallelujah” which originally debuted on the Yahoo Music Channel’s Home-Page and Gospel Music Channel. The video, directed by Steve Gilreath, is currently viewable at www.reunionrecords.com.
Smith will be interviewed on Monday, Oct. 27 by radio outlets including Rick and Bubba’s morning show, Moody Broadcasting’s “The Morning Show with Mark Elfstrand,” and “Prime Time America,” USA Radio Network’s “Daybreak USA,” American Family Radio, AP Radio, Family Life and Focus on the Family. On Oct. 28, his official street day, he will perform “A New Hallelujah” live on the KLOVE Network as well as stations in New York, Tampa, Orlando, Minneapolis and Los Angeles. In addition, he will be the featured guest on Moody’s “Midday Connection.”
A New Hallelujah, Michael W. Smith’s newest record, and third worship album, was recorded live this June before 12,000 people in Houston, Texas. The record features The African Children’s Choir, a 250-voice choir, and a special guest appearance by 2008 GRAMMY Award-Winner, Israel Houghton.
Smith’s first worship album, simply titled Worship, released on September 11, 2001, and has sold more than a million-and-a half copies. It’s follow up Worship Again released September 19, 2002, and is nearing the 800,000 mark.
The Nashville Choir’s third annual “A Light for the
City” event celebrated the 25-year-career of GRAMMY® award-winning and
multi-Platinum selling artist Michael W. Smith. The
star-studded tribute took place on Sunday, Oct. 12 at Music City’s Schermerhorn
Symphony Center. The show, which has been described as a cross between “This Is
Your Life” and the “Kennedy Center Honors,” was open to the public and included
special appearances by the Rev. Franklin Graham and author Max Lucado and
performances by Amy Grant, Jordin Sparks, Melinda Doolittle, Bill Gaither,
Wynonna, Ricky Skaggs, Phil Stacey, Michael Tait and others. All proceeds
benefitted The Nashville Choir which is a non-profit
organization. For more information on Michael, please visit www.michaelwsmith.com.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – October 6, 2008 – GRAMMY® award-winning and multi-Platinum selling artist Michael W. Smith will celebrate this holiday season with the 16-show “It’s A Wonderful Christmas Tour.” Featuring “American Idol” alum Melinda Doolittle as special guest, the tour kicks off Nov. 29, in Youngstown, Ohio and will hit major markets like Dallas, St. Paul, Spokane, Portland and more before it concludes in Phoenix on Dec. 19.
The Associated Press calls Smith’s Christmas music “cinematic,” and this tour will showcase exactly why he has become one of the most popular holiday performers in the music industry today. Each tour date will feature Smith with a full symphony orchestra, performing selections from his three Christmas albums including his acclaimed 2007 release, It’s A Wonderful Christmas.
“There is no greater thrill for me, as an artist, than to play with a symphony orchestra,” Smith explains. “Christmas is my favorite time of the year, and I love Christmas music. My goal every night is to make sure everyone leaves in the Christmas spirit. Having Melinda Doolittle there certainly helps. Her voice is amazing. The Christmas shows really are special and I can’t wait to take the stage every night.”
“This is my second year to have the honor of being with Michael W. Smith on tour,” Doolittle adds. “I am head over heels with excitement. I can't even describe how amazing it is to sing with a full orchestra each night and to share the stage with Smitty. And to top it all off, it’s Christmas music that will pull on your heart strings, lighten your spirit and remind you of why we really celebrate this wonderful holiday!”
Smith’s holiday tour will come on the heels of a whirlwind fall, during which he has teamed up for the first time with fellow artist Steven Curtis Chapman for the highly-successful “United Tour” and prepares to release his 21st album, A New Hallelujah (Oct. 28). The anticipated new worship project was recorded live before more than 12,000 in attendance, with a 250-voice choir.
Tickets for “It’s A Wonderful Christmas Tour” are on sale now. For more information on that tour and “The United Tour,” go to www.michaelwsmith.com.
Multi-Platinum selling artist, Michael W. Smith, performed on the South Lawn of the White House on Monday, September 8, to celebrate President Bush’s commitment to service through the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation. Smitty was appointed Co-chair of the organization by the president in 2006. Smitty also joined Senator John McCain in New York this week (September 11), as part of an event that brought together that organization and ServiceNation, a coalition of more than 100 groups dedicated to strengthening out democracy and problem-solving through civic engagement. For more information on Smitty, please visit www.michaelwsmith.com. *Pictured above, Michael W. Smith and President Bush at the White House on Monday, September 8.
The Nashville Choir announces its third annual “A Light for the City” event will celebrate the 25-year-career of GRAMMY® award-winning and multi-Platinum selling artist Michael W. Smith. The star-studded tribute will take place on Saturday, Oct. 12 at 7:00 PM at Music City’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center. The show which has been described as a cross between “This Is Your Life” and the “Kennedy Center Honors” will be open to the public and include special appearances by the Rev. Franklin Graham and author Max Lucado and performances by Amy Grant, Bill and Gloria Gaither, Jordin Sparks, Wynonna, Ricky Skaggs, Melinda Doolittle, Phil Stacey, Michael Tait and others. Tickets for “A Light for the City 2008” range in price from $32.50 to $250 and may be purchased now by calling 615-687-6400, going online to www.nashvillesymphony.org, or at the Schermerhorn box office. All proceeds will benefit The Nashville Choir which is a non-profit organization.
(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) September 5, 2008 – As Michael W. Smith gears up for the release of his 21st album, A New Hallelujah (10/28), “Smitty” heads out next week to join a cast of U.S. leaders as they celebrate and promote two U.S. service-based organizations: The President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation and ServiceNation.
On Monday September 8, Smith will perform on the South Lawn of the White House as leaders gather to celebrate President George W. Bush’s commitment to service through the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation, the very organization he appointed Smith to Vice-Chair in January of 2006.
On Thursday, September 11, Smith will join Senators John McCain and Barack Obama in New York City as part of an event bringing together the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation and ServiceNation – a powerful new coalition of more than 100 groups dedicated to strengthening our democracy and solving problems through civic engagement and citizen service.
“I can’t begin to tell you how much these two organizations are making a difference in lives across the globe. I am grateful to have served on the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation and look forward to hearing more about the incredible efforts yet to launch through ServiceNation next week,” shares an inspired Smith.
About the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation
Established in January 2003 by President George W. Bush, the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation is comprised of a diverse group of leaders who share a deep commitment to promoting and strengthening the culture of volunteer service and civic participation in America. These leaders from the private and non-profit sectors, entertainment, athletics, education, and government are charged with promoting and recognizing the contributions that Americans of all ages and backgrounds are making through volunteer service, and they encourage greater public access to information about existing volunteer opportunities. More information on the Council can be found at www.whitehouse.gov.
About ServiceNation
ServiceNation is a campaign for a new America. An America where citizens unite and take responsibility for the nation’s future. An America that restores the great tradition of citizen service, and honors the profound sacrifices made by so many Americans who have passed before, from the small band of Founders to the millions who have fought for equality and justice at home, and defended our freedom abroad. ServiceNation is about an America that is ruggedly idealistic, compassionate, and above all committed to the idea of shared sacrifice in pursuit of America’s boldest promise: liberty and justice for all.
To begin this journey, ServiceNation will unite leaders from every sector of American society with hundreds of thousands of citizens in a national campaign to call on the next President and Congress to enact a new era of service and citizenship in America, an era in which all Americans will work together to try and solve our greatest and most persistent societal challenges. This campaign will launch with a ServiceNation Summit, Sept. 11-12 in New York City, and build with a national grassroots movement aimed at inspiring widespread public support for a new and transformational national service act that will encourage all Americans to step forward and take the lead in bridging our divides, strengthening our communities, and building a more vibrant democracy. For further information, please visit, www.bethechangeinc.org/servicenation.
(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) April 24, 2008 – With the top awards in gospel/Christian music being handed out at Wednesday’s 39th annual GMA Dove Awards, multi-platinum and GRAMMY-winning artist Michael W. Smith was one of the night’s most recognized artists. Heading into the night with 40 Dove Awards over the span of his still-burgeoning 25-year career, Smith’s double Dove win brings his tally to 42.
In addition to receiving two Dove statues, Smith was honored during a musical segment of the nationally-televised program featuring longtime friend Amy Grant and a trio of recent American Idol alum, including Phil Stacey, Mandisa, and Chris Sligh. Each of the young, rising stars spoke about the influence of Smith and his music in their lives and then performed one of their favorite songs from his catalog.
Smith commented, “I really enjoyed the time on stage with Amy, Phil, Chris and Mandisa. Hearing them sing some of my songs was a tremendous honor. To think that I’ve done this for 25 years almost doesn’t seem real. I honestly think I’m writing and creating more music today than I ever have. Since I’m always looking forward, it was a fun to take a moment to stop and look back.”
Smith was awarded Christmas Album of the Year for his 2007 holiday release, It’s A Wonderful Christmas, and for his contribution as an artist to the Special Event Album of the Year, Glory Revealed. Michael W. Smith’s latest non-seasonal studio recording and GRAMMY nominated, Stand, was one of the top ten best-selling projects of 2007, and included the Dove-nominated tune, “Be Lifted High.”
Many in attendance would say that Smith’s performance of his newest radio single, “So Great,” was a highlight of the evening. This tune is the first release from Compassionart, a newly-launched initiative comprised of internationally recognized songwriters Michael W. Smith, Chris Tomlin, Steven Curtis Chapman, Darlene Zschech, Matt and Beth Redman, Tim Hughes, Paul Baloche, Israel Houghton, Graham Kendrick, Andy Park, Martin Smith and Stu Garrard (Delirious?).
The group’s unprecedented goal is to collectively write 10-12 songs that will be given to the world not just to sing, but to raise money for the relief of suffering around the planet. Together these songwriters account for at least 42 million albums sold, 82 No. 1 songs, nine GRAMMY Awards, 110 Dove Awards, two Stellar Awards, two American Music Awards, and 98 current CCLI Top 500 songs sung by millions in churches around the world. One hundred percent of the proceeds derived from the songs written will go directly to charity. One half of the monies will go to the songwriter’s charity of choice, and the other 50% will go to a charitable project agreed upon by all the songwriters involved.
Over his 25-year career as a recording artist, Michael W. Smith has amassed an impressive catalog of achievements. His 20 albums have garnered multiple honors including an American Music Award, 3 GRAMMY Awards (from 13 nominations) and 42 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards. In addition, he holds 16 Gold and 5 Platinum albums, 33 No. 1 radio hits, and has been named one of People Magazine’s Most Beautiful People. Smith has also scored several film projects and written 11 books. His tours consistently rank among the best attended in the country and he has performed to capacity crowds throughout the world. Constantly giving back to the community, one of his current projects is Rocketown -- a nightclub for teens in his hometown of Nashville, Tenn. -- which serves as safe place for young people to enjoy music and for artists to be discovered. He is married to Debbie Smith and they are the proud parents of five children.
Famed Christian artist Michael W. Smith sets sail on his first-ever fan cruise this Saturday. Smith will depart from Seattle on a cruise with 900 fans and his family to four different Alaskan ports and Victoria in Canada, before returning back to Seattle. The eight-day cruise will feature comedian Bob Nelson and special guest artists Leeland and Michael Olson.
Full articleGRAMMY and Dove Award-winning artist Michael W. Smith has been
nominated by the White House to serve a two-year term as a member of the President’s Council
on Service and Civic Participation. Smith joins a dynamic group of leaders who represent the
private and non-profit sectors, entertainment, athletics, education and government. While the
backgrounds of each member are diverse, they each share a deep commitment to strengthening
the culture of volunteer service in America.
President George W. Bush established the Council on Service and Civic Participation in January of
2003, on the first anniversary of the USA Freedom Corps, and he charged the Council members
with promoting and recognizing the contributions that Americans of all ages and backgrounds are
making through volunteer service.
In brief, The Council’s main efforts are to promote volunteer service and civic participation in
American society. They also endorse the recognition of outstanding volunteer service through the
presentation of the President's Volunteer Service Award by Council members and Certifying
Organizations. They work to support the efforts and needs of local non-profits and volunteer
organizations, including volunteer centers, and encourage greater public access to information
about existing volunteer opportunities, including via the Internet. The Council also promotes
increased and sustained private sector sponsorship of and engagement in volunteer service and
make recommendations on ways to encourage greater levels of volunteer service and civic
participation by individuals, schools, and organizations. More information on the Council can be
found at www.whitehouse.gov.
This prestigious nomination comes on the eve of Smith’s motion picture debut in the Provident
Films release, “The Second Chance.” Starring in his first feature film, Smith plays a pastor sent
from a wealthy church to serve an inner-city congregation. Directed and co-written by Christian
music industry veteran Steve Taylor, “The Second Chance” will be distributed by Sony Pictures
Releasing under the Triumph Films banner on February 17, 2006.
The film’s motion picture soundtrack, featuring new and original music from Smith, Third Day, Fred
Hammond, Andrae Crouch, Ruben Studdard, John Legend, and more, released in December on
Reunion Records and has already spanned the hit “Total Praise,” performed by Smith. More
information on the film can be found at www.thesecondchancemovie.com. -- ©2006
CCAUTHORITY.COM BREAKING NEWS
The Second Chance, a Provident Films release, starring Michael W. Smith in his film debut, directed and co-written by Steve Taylor, will be distributed by Sony Pictures Releasing under the Triumph Films banner on February 17, 2006.
The original motion picture soundtrack will be released by Reunion Records on December 27, 2005.
In The Second Chance, GRAMMY® and Dove® Award-winning superstar Michael W. Smith plays Ethan Jenkins, the associate pastor of a mega-church in the wealthy, predominantly white suburbs. When Ethan’s unorthodox style gets him in trouble with church leadership, his senior pastor/father Jeremiah Jenkins (J. Don Ferguson, Remember The Titans) sends him downtown to serve at their sister church, a black congregation in the projects.
Veteran stage actor and playwright Jeff Obafemi Carr stars as Jake Sanders, the street tough pastor of Second Chance Community Church. Ethan arrives to find his church’s “outreach” to the struggling community is creating resentment and mistrust. Sparks fly from day one when Jake takes Ethan on a tour of the ‘hood, and the situations they encounter lay bare Ethan’s misconceptions and insecurities. Jake and his wife Amanda (Lisa Arrindell Anderson, Clockers, Madea’s Family Reunion) struggle to find common ground with Ethan as they face street gangs, systemic poverty and those who would destroy their church for political gain.
The film will open in 35 key markets on February 17 with plans to expand to additional markets in following weeks. A full market and theater listing will be available in coming weeks on www.thesecondchancemovie.com.
