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.
