Category Archives: All Music

Friend of the Podcast – Brennley Brown to Debut at the Grand Ole Opry: A Testament to Faith and Talent

As a pastor and host of a Christian podcast, I have had the distinct honor of speaking with many talented and inspiring individuals. One such person who has left a profound impact on me and countless others is Brennley Brown. It is with great joy and pride that I share the exciting news that Brennley will be making her debut at the Grand Ole Opry next month!

Click here to see how Brennley was surprised by none other than Dolly Parton breaking the big news.

For those of you who have followed Brennley’s journey, you know that her path to this prestigious stage has been paved with unwavering faith, dedication, and an incredible gift for music. From a young age, Brennley’s talent was evident, but it was her steadfast faith and commitment to using her gifts for God’s glory that truly set her apart.

I first met Brennley when she graciously agreed to be a guest on my podcast. We spoke at length about her upbringing, her deep-rooted faith, and her dreams of sharing her music with the world. What struck me most was her humility and her profound understanding that her talent was a gift from God, meant to be used to inspire and uplift others.

As Brennley prepares to step onto the stage of the Grand Ole Opry, she does so not just as a performer, but as a beacon of hope and a testament to what can be achieved when we place our trust in the Lord. Her journey has not been without challenges, but through it all, she has remained grounded in her faith, allowing it to guide her every step of the way.

The Grand Ole Opry, often referred to as the home of American music, is a place where legends are born and celebrated. For Brennley to be given this opportunity is a testament to her hard work, her exceptional talent, and the impact she has already made in the world of country music. More importantly, it is a reflection of the light she brings to everything she does, a light that shines brightly for all to see.

In our conversations, Brennley often spoke about her desire to touch hearts and change lives through her music. As she stands on that iconic stage, I have no doubt that she will do just that. Her voice, filled with emotion and conviction, will resonate with every person in the audience, reminding them of the power of faith and the beauty of following one’s God-given calling.

As a community, let us join together in celebrating this incredible milestone in Brennley’s career. Let us lift her up in prayer, asking for God’s continued blessings upon her life and her music. And let us be inspired by her example, knowing that with faith, perseverance, and a heart dedicated to serving the Lord, all things are possible.

Brennley, we are so proud of you. Your debut at the Grand Ole Opry is just the beginning of the many great things God has in store for you. May you continue to shine His light wherever you go, touching hearts and changing lives with every note you sing.

God bless you, Brennley, and congratulations on this well-deserved honor!

To read more about this big announcement and how Brennley found out about this great opportunity, click this link to go to my friend Trevor Decker News post.

An Unsung Act of Faith: Why “Unsung Hero” Belongs in Your Family’s Movie Night

This weekend, swap popcorn for praise and settle in for a truly inspiring cinematic experience with “Unsung Hero.” This poignant film, based on the real-life story of the Smallbone family, transcends mere entertainment. It’s a powerful testament to the unwavering strength of faith, the enduring power of family, and the transformative beauty of music – all woven into a tapestry that will resonate deeply with Christian families.

A Story Rooted in Faith

“Unsung Hero” isn’t simply a movie about music success. It delves into the Smallbones’ profound faith, showcasing how their reliance on God carries them through unimaginable challenges. We witness their prayers for provision, their unwavering belief in God’s plan, and the countless “miracles,” big and small, that Helen, the family’s anchor, recognizes as divine answers. This portrayal isn’t preachy; it’s a genuine reflection of how faith shapes their journey, offering a relatable and inspiring message for Christian families.

Family: A Pillar of Strength

The film beautifully depicts the unwavering love and support within the Smallbone family. Through financial hardship, cultural displacement, and the pursuit of seemingly impossible dreams, they stand by each other. We see the power of forgiveness as David, initially consumed by the burden of provision, seeks reconciliation with his wife and children. This emphasis on family unity and the importance of Christ-like love within the home makes “Unsung Hero” a must-watch for families seeking to strengthen their own bonds.

From Trials to Triumph: A Song of Hope

“Unsung Hero” doesn’t shy away from depicting the trials the Smallbones face. However, the film masterfully portrays how their faith becomes a source of unwavering hope. We see how they lean on scripture for guidance, clinging to promises like Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Witnessing this journey of faith, overcoming adversity with unwavering trust in God’s plan, will leave your family feeling empowered and hopeful.

A Spark for Family Discussions

Beyond entertainment, “Unsung Hero” presents a springboard for meaningful conversations within your family. Here are some discussion starters:

  • Finding Strength in Faith: How does your family turn to faith during challenging times? Discuss specific prayers, scriptures, or practices that provide comfort and guidance.
  • The Power of Forgiveness: Talk about the importance of forgiveness within your family. How can you practice Christ-like forgiveness in your daily lives?
  • Family United: Share stories of times your family has faced challenges together. How did your unity help you overcome these obstacles?
  • Living Your Dreams: Encourage your children to share their dreams and aspirations. Discuss how your family can support them in achieving their goals, remembering Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

“Unsung Hero” is more than a movie; it’s a cinematic experience that will leave a lasting impact on your family. It’s a celebration of faith, family, and the power of music, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, God’s plan unfolds in beautiful and unexpected ways. So grab your family, head to the theater, and prepare to be uplifted, inspired, and reminded of the extraordinary strength that lies within faith and family.

Natasha Owens Releases Powerful Pro-Life Anthem, “Stand for Life”

Produced for Radiate Music by GRAMMY-nominated and multiple Dove Award winner Ian Eskelin, the well-timed single appears on Natasha Owens’ upcoming album, “American Patriot.”

Ahead of her upcoming album, American Patriot, Natasha Owens is celebrating the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade with the powerful pro-life anthem, “Stand for Life.” Produced for Radiate Music by GRAMMY-nominated and multiple Dove Award winner Ian Eskelin, the well-timed single appears on her upcoming album, available everywhere on July 1 from Radiate Music.

Of her new pro-life anthem, Owens says: “The Supreme Court just delivered the most historic victory ever in the fight for life. Roe v. Wade – the cause of millions of innocent babies’ senseless deaths – has been overturned. I always hoped but never thought that I would see Roe overturned in my lifetime. In a world that has such darkness, a spark of light has been given to us. But our work is not done. Now is the time to love and help be a part of the solution for mothers who are scared and without hope. The body of Christ has an unbelievable opportunity to spread God’s love. We must be bold in our proclamation to stand for life. I have witnessed incredible opposition when I have stood for life, but I stand boldly and unashamed in front of God and a watching world. We must never be afraid to stand up for what is right. Preventing the senseless bloodshed of innocent babies is what I know is right. I pray that that ‘Stand For Life’ will give others enough strength to boldly stand. Life is precious. Life starts at conception. Everything that has a heartbeat is alive!”

With American Patriot, Owens is taking a new direction and offering up a bold, proud, powerful concept collection that bridges an unwavering love of country with the themes of faith and family that have always played a significant part in her artistry. Owens exploded onto the Christian Music scene in 2016 and quickly found herself touring with Christian Music’s most iconic artists, including Michael W. Smith and Jason Crabb. Her sophomore album, We Will Rise, was named “Inspirational Album of the Year” at the 2018 We Love Christian Music Awards, which led to a deal with Nashville-based Radiate Music and extensive media coverage including appearances on Fox News, HLN, Newsmax and more.

Owens has been making regular appearances on the conservative circuit in recent months, including frequent visits to Mar A Lago and a main stage appearance at CPAC 2022 in Orlando, performing the national anthem for the largest and most influential annual gathering of conservatives in the world. She also performed for nearly 50,000 at this year’s Hero’s Honor Festival alongside Toby Keith and Craig Morgan.

Get the “Stand for Life” single: https://ffm.to/nosfl

Pre-save or pre-order American Patriot: https://ffm.to/patriot

For more information, visit www.NatashaOwensMusic.com. 

Contact

Brian Mayes
Publicist
Nashville Publicity Group
Phone: 615-771-2040
brian@nashvillepublicity.com

Jesus Revolution Set to Release February 24, 2023

HOLLYWOOD — “Jesus Revolution,” the faith-based film about the great spiritual revival of the 1970s, has tapped Kelsey Grammer, Joel Courtney, Jonathan Roumie and Anna Grace Barlow to create an iconic cast.

“Jesus Revolution” follows Laurie’s journey from Southern California hippie rebel to committed believer at the swell of the Jesus Movement. The film will star Joel Courtney (The Kissing Booth) as young Greg Laurie and Kelsey Grammer (Frasier) as Greg’s mentor, Pastor Chuck Smith. Jonathan Roumie (The Chosen) will portray hippie and Charismatic evangelist Lonnie Frisbee, and Anna Grace Barlow (Scream, The Never List) will co-star as Greg Laurie’s young wife, Cathe. Other notable castings include Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Ally Ioannides, Julia Campbell, Nic Bishop and Jolie Jenkins.

“This film is not primarily about Chuck Smith, Lonnie Frisbee, Cathe Laurie or myself. It’s about how Jesus moved and sent a spiritual awakening in our lives that is still being felt today,” said Pastor Greg Laurie. “I am honored to have such a talented, venerated cast and crew tell this story that is so near to my heart and changed my life and our country for eternity. The Jesus Movement was the last great American spiritual awakening. Some historians have said it was the greatest revival of all time. Now, I’m praying for another in our time.”

“Jesus Revolution,” written by Jon Erwin and Jon Gunn with The Erwin Brothers and The Kingdom Story Company (Lionsgate), is set to release February 24, 2023. The film is based on the book of the same title from Laurie and Ellen Vaughn, telling personal stories of one of the largest spiritual revivals in the nation’s history.

Against the socially chaotic backdrop of the 1970s, an entire generation in the U.S. found new meaning in Christianity, sparking a revival that broke out on the West Coast and spread throughout the United States — an event that TIME Magazine called “The Jesus Revolution.”

“Jesus has been a profound influence in my life,” said Kelsey Grammer. “I am proud to be a part of this film.”

BREAKING: President Donald J. Trump to Present the Unity Award to Dr. Alveda King at 10th Annual We Love Christian Music Awards

UPDATED: President Donald J. Trump will present the Unity Award to Dr. Alveda King via video. Dr. King will attend the sold-out live event taking place at Visible Music College in Memphis, Tennessee. Watch the live broadcast Tuesday, 2.22.22 at 9 PM EST/8 PM CST, at http://www.weloveawards.com.

Friday, February 18, 2022 — MEMPHIS, Tennessee — For the past ten years, the WE LOVE CHRISTIAN MUSIC AWARDS (www.WeLoveAwards.com) has celebrated the best faith-based artists, albums and songs in each calendar year, and has given the Christian music fan the power to choose the winners. 

The upcoming 10th Annual ceremony will be broadcasting live in front of a sold-out audience from Visible Music College (www.visible.edu) in downtown Memphis, Tennessee on Tuesday, 2.22.22. In addition to the winners of 24 categories being announced, Dr. Alveda King will be on site accepting the first annual UNITY AWARD. President Donald J. Trump will present the award to Dr. King via video.

This new, annual award will recognize a celebrated public figure outside of Christian music who is continually using their platform and reach to encourage communities to find commonality above division, race and ideology through loving faith-based values and ethics.

Dr. Alveda C. King is the daughter of the late slain civil rights activist Rev. A.D. King and the niece of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. A leading pro-life activist and the founder of Speak for Life, Dr. King has dedicated much of her life to fighting for the sanctity and dignity of all life–from the womb to the tomb. She is a Fox News contributor and host of the Fox Nation show, Alveda King’s House, and currently serves as the Chair of the Center for the American Dream at AFPI. Dr. King is a former college professor, served in the Georgia State House of Representatives, is a former presidential appointee, and 2021 recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. 

“Unity has always been at the center of the WE LOVE CHRISTIAN MUSIC AWARDS,” shares founder, Kevin McNeese. “The more we can focus on common ground, despite our differences, the better off our collective communities will be. I’m excited to be able to welcome Dr. Alveda King to our event in Memphis, and look forward to bringing her spirit of faith-based unity to the entire evening.”

Presented by Christian music site NewReleaseToday.com, the live, 2-hour ceremony will be broadcast exclusively at WeLoveAwards.com starting at 9 PM EST/8PM CST. The night will be hosted by DREAM Records’ pop recording artist Branan Murphy and 5-time GRAMMY® nominated and Bethel Music worship recording artist Dante Bowe. Live performances will include Cade Thompson (Red Street Records), Coby James (Centricity Music), The Letter Black (Nashville Label Group), Stephen McWhirter, Jason Clayborn, Remedy Drive, Jadi, Hope VanDouser and boiling point. NEXT BIG THING nominees Grace Graber, Emily Faith, Abby Robertson and Amongst Wolves will also be performing. Pastor Sam Evans of PLANETSHAKERS will be delivering a special message for the global worship community.

Christian music fans can familiarize themselves with all 84 artists nominated this year through the official We Love Awards playlist, available exclusively at APPLE MUSIC. https://nrt.cc/10thWLAPlaylist.

Learn more about the WE LOVE CHRISTIAN MUSIC AWARDS, view the full list of nominees and watch the live broadcast Tuesday, 2.22.22 at 9 PM EST/8 PM CST, at http://www.weloveawards.com.

About NewReleaseToday

NewReleaseToday (NRT), launched in August 2002, has become the largest Christian music and media site online, offering the most complete and up-to-date info on faith-based arts and entertainment. From album release dates to exclusive interviews to world premieres and Christian music news, NRT has become the go-to source for what’s new in Christian music. www.NewReleaseToday.com
 

About Visible Music College

Visible Music College is a global, spiritual community of musicians, technicians, business professionals, and educators serving the Church and society with collective energy and talent, fostering an environment of creativity, worship, and innovation in artistic endeavors for the glory of God. More information can be found at www.visible.edu.

ABOUT NASHVILLE PUBLICITY GROUP

Nashville Publicity Group is a forward thinking full-service public relations and consulting company offering the personal attention of a boutique agency combined with the scope, results and services of a larger firm. We routinely deliver unparalleled results by creating aggressive, tailor-made campaigns to meet our clients’ specific needs. Launched in 2002 as a music and entertainment PR firm, Nashville Publicity Group’s diverse roster of clients has grown to encompass music, authors, tours and events, television and feature films, corporate clients, non-profits, faith-based ministries, human rights activists, political icons and much more. 

Brooke Ligertwood Premiere’s Nineveh (Live)

Lyrics:

Nineveh

Oh Nineveh

The Lord is turning toward you

Compassion or calamity

Will you heed the warning

Fall on your knees

Tear down your idols

When you choose surrender

You choose survival

Call on His Name

Turn from your violence

Out of the ashes

He will revive

You God have mercy

God have mercy

I know You are a gracious God

I know You’re slow to anger

But I misunderstood Your love

Forgive me God for running

You sent a wind

Stirred up the ocean

Still I rebelled

My heart wasn’t open

But when I prayed

You were there waiting

I made a vow

To speak Your salvation

Nineveh

Oh Nineveh

The Lord is turning toward you

Holy Spirit help me see

Where there is Nineveh in me

Turn away

Your wrath once more

God have mercy

Perfect prophet, priest, and King

Christ became the reckoning

In His body bore my sin

Now to all who trust in Him

God has mercy

God have mercy on us

Nineveh

Oh Nineveh

The Lord is turning toward you

Pastor Ed Boston Interviews Michael Feighan

Multi-talented Michael Feighan to Release Solo Project Someone Prayed Oct. 15, 2021; First Single “I Still Believe” Available Aug. 27, 2021

 July 30, 2021 (Crystal Beach, Texas) — Notable artist/drummer/songwriter, Michael Feighan, will release his solo project, Someone Prayed, on Oct. 15, 2021. Besides delivering great vocals and music, Feighan has assembled an incredible team for the project. Matt Bissonette (Elton John, Ringo Starr) joined as producer for Someone Prayed, while his brother, Gregg Bissonette (Ringo Starr), added his drumming expertise for the EP and five-time Grammy® Award-winning engineer, Chris Lord-Alge (Bruce Springsteen, Tina Turner, Tim McGraw) brings his talent to the mix. The project will be released through Label Logic, with distribution being handled by Ingrooves.

The first single, “I Still Believe,” will release on Aug. 27, 2021 and will be available on all digital outlets. It’s a patriotic song that honors our military during Labor Day, September 11th and any day that salutes our nation. The single was co-written by Michael and Matt Bissonette, and fulfills Michael and his dad’s, Chief Master Sargent Mike Feighan, love for our country.

“Working with Michael has been an amazing blessing in my life,” said Matt. “Our friends from Label Logic put us together and we began writing songs together. I knew Michael was a really good singer, and a great drummer as well, but was blown away at what an amazing performer he is in the studio. He really brought all the songs to another level and his lyric skills really made it easy to write the songs. But more important than that, he is a great human being with a desire to honor God in everything. God first, everything else follows. It’s a great motto and principle that humbled me and made me want to do the same. What an amazing honor it is to work with this blessed man.”

Someone Prayed is a four song EP, which includes the title track and “I Still Believe,” with two additional songs that were written for his wife and daughter. “Joy of Life” centers on the difficulties that his wife, Christie, faced during a rough period of time, and Michael’s musical message centered on the joy of Christ.  Jesus, give me the faith that will move every mountain/And teach me to trust You always/Father teach me Your ways that I want to be my ways/And give me the Joy of life today. “Before Time Began” is a loving message to his daughter, Tatiana, after Michael and Christie flew to Russia and brought their daughter home to Texas after her adoption.

“Writing with Matt on this project was a dream come true, and one of the songs we did together was especially rewarding,” said Feighan. “I had some previous lyrics that I had written about my daughter, Tatiana. My wife and I adopted her from Russia, and I thought it would be great to have Matt talk about his son in the second verse. He came up with the idea for the third verse that puts it all together, and how we are all God’s adopted children—and one day in heaven He will be looking back at us. This song came out very powerful!”

Michael’s high-profile career began when he joined the Christian metal band Whitecross, and he was ranked as of the top 10 drummers in Christian music. The group’s music grew around the world that included the states, South America and Europe, and led to three Dove Awards for recordings with Triumphant Return (1990), In The Kingdom (1992) and “Come Unto The Light” (1994). 

Michael became an on-demand drummer that led to other opportunities outside of Whitecross. This included being signed to Star Song Music (1991-1993), R.E.X Music (1994-1995), Madison Line Records (2013), playing with Curious Fools on the Gotee label in 1997, performing with Oz Fox of Stryper and pop artist B.J. Thomas.

For more information about Michael and Someone Prayed, fans can visit his website and on social media at Facebook, and Instagram.

New Podcast: Natasha Owens Releases “Stand”

The latest podcast feature Christian music artist Natasha Owens talking about her new album “Stand”. Natasha and Pastor Ed also discuss what’s keeping her busy, a women’s conference she’s hosting and a discussion on church lockdowns and it’s effect on mental health issue. Go here to listen: https://anchor.fm/edboston/episodes/Natasha-Owens-Releases-Stand-e163u34

Christian Music Powerhouse Natasha Owens Takes a “Stand” with New Album Produced by Ian Eskelin
Christian music powerhouse Natasha Owens returns August 6th with her latest studio album, Stand, a 12-track testament to perseverance and empowerment that finds her reconnecting with longtime label home Radiate Music and GRAMMY-nominated and multiple Dove Award-winning producer/songwriter/fellow artist Ian Eskelin. 

“Through the last year or so, there has been a lot of chaos going on in our world,” observes Owens. “It’s incredibly easy to look around us and instantly become anxious and fearful at all that we see. But there is a hope that I have found that is stronger than the enemy that tries to intimidate us; His name is Jesus.”

The album’s just-released lead single, “Lion,” takes the chaos of the past year head on, reminding us to move forward no matter how insurmountable one’s surrounding circumstances may seem.

“This song has driven me by the truth that our King is bold, fearless and courageous,” Owens explains. “Revelation 5:5 refers to Jesus as the Lion of the Tribe of Judah who prevails. Instantly, I was then reminded of Proverbs 28:1 that promises us that the righteous are as bold as a lion. What a declaration! He is our defender and has given us the strength to stand in boldness without fear. This is our battle cry.”

Other standouts on Stand include the joyful sentiments of “Fly,” the praise-fueled acoustic tenderness of “Hallelujah,” a stunning tribute to a lost loved one, “Home,” and the optimistic closing anthem, simply titled “Yes.”  

“Even when every door seems closed, there’s no need to second guess. You know what’s best,” she confidently sings in the latter. “Every time you tell me ‘no,’ it means that there’s a better ‘yes.’”

There’s even a throwback to Owens’ previous project with the bonus track, “Warrior,” a brand new rendition of the modern classic recorded live in front of a roaring crowd. 

“I want to show people that they can make it, too,” Owens asserts. “Being a warrior means that my wounds have healed, but I still have the scars to prove it. The scars remind me that I don’t have to worry about the next battle because I know God will be standing with me.”

As Owens plans to return to touring and as host of the national Christian women’s conference known as the Warrior Event, she’s looking forward to sharing her courageous story as a means to inspire others, while always making sure to meet listeners exactly where they’re at.

“So many people are at different stages of their story,” she says. “In any crowd you have people ranging from being at the beginning of their grief all the way to being overcomers. I’m taking people on the full journey, making them feel all of these emotions, but leaving feeling hopeful.”

Owens’ path to a successful music career is unique, rooted in agonizing heartache and unbelievable tragedy. Seven years ago, her father died suddenly while cleaning his guns when one misfired, placing a bullet in his chest. The themes of grief, heartbreak, and redemption permeate throughout her music, which served as therapy for her along the way.

Today, she is intently focused on being a proactive and prayerful advocate for mental health awareness. She has been open about her battle with severe depression, and her season of extreme lows brought on by tragedy. But she’s quick to share how God showed up in the most magnificent way. “He said, ‘trust in Me that I’ve guided you this far and I’m not gonna let you down now.’”   Owens knows that God has kept that promise, and Stand brings it all full-circle.

Owens will hit the road this summer performing at multiple festivals, sharing the main stage with Michael W. Smith, Newsboys, Danny Gokey, Matthew West, Skillet, Mandisa, Colton Dixon and many more. Plans for a fall tour and a Christmas tour are also underway. To view her complete concert schedule, visit the official website at http://natashaowensmusic.com. 

About Natasha Owens: Owens exploded onto the Christian Music scene with her 2016 debut, No One But You. She suddenly found herself touring as the opening act for Christian Music’s most iconic artists, including Michael W. Smith and Jason Crabb. Her 2017 follow-up, We Will Rise, was named “Inspirational Album of the Year” at the 2018 We Love Christian Music Awards. And in 2019, Owens signed to Radiate Music and released her third album, Warrior, produced and co-written by award-winning producer Ian Eskelin (Francesca Battistelli, Sidewalk Prophets). During the downtime the pandemic provided, she recorded and released the jazzy holiday album, Christmas Memoriesin the fall of 2020.Instantly relatable, Owens has quickly resonated with listeners and has had extensive media coverage including appearances on Fox News, Newsmax and HLN, among others. She has toured with some of Christian Music’s bestselling artists, including Michael W. Smith, Kutless, JJ Weeks, Ryan Stevenson, Jason Crabb, Matthew West, 7eventh Time Down, Audio Adrenaline, Point of Grace and more.


About Radiate Music: Founded by Ian Eskelin, Radiate Music launched summer 2015. Eskelin’s 20-plus-year resume in the music business, ranging from being a recording artist to a record executive, gives him a unique perspective in partnering with artists who are passionate about impacting culture with music. Eskelin, who has recorded more than 50 Top 10 singles in the United States alone, including 20 No. 1 songs, and whose songs have been licensed for use by ABC, NBC, CBS, ESPN and many feature films, is looking to break additional ground with Radiate. In addition to King, Radiate’s artist roster includes, Natasha Owens, JJ Weeks, About A Mile, Attaboy, John Waller, and Inspiration Worship.