The acclaimed five-time GRAMMY-winning musical collective Maverick City Music has unveiled their latest genre-bending project, ‘The Maverick Way Reimagined.’ Released via Insignia & TRIBL Records, the album reimagines songs from their previous ‘The Maverick Way Complete’ tracklist, infusing them with an eclectic blend of genres like Afrobeats, R&B, Gospel, and Contemporary Christian music. Additionally, nine brand-new tracks have been included, featuring collaborations with several artists.
The first single from the album, “Rest on Us” with Salvadoran artist Sam Rivera, has already been released. Previously teased on Maverick City Music’s Instagram, songs like “In The Room (Afro Beat Version)” with Annatoria (winner of ‘The Voice UK’ Season 9), “God Problems (Not By Power)” featuring Miles Minnick, and “You are Mighty” with Nick Day and Odell Bunton Jr. are now available. Fans can also look forward to guest vocals from Mara Justine (‘The Voice’ top 5 finalist), Evan Ford, and Genavieve Linkowski (‘American Idol’ Seasons 16 and 18 contestant) on the new tracks.
“The purpose of ‘The Maverick Way Reimagined’ is to embrace all the diverse musical genres our listeners love,” explained Maverick City Music and TRIBL Records co-founders Jonathan Jay and Norman Gyamfi. “We wanted to give our worship fans a fresh way to experience these songs while also offering the original versions that made the last album so popular. This is just the beginning – we have more collaborations with some of the featured artists in the works.”
Founded in Atlanta in 2018 with the goal of transcending racial and denominational divides in Christian music, Maverick City Music has amassed numerous accolades. In 2021, they won a GRAMMY for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album for ‘Old Church Basement.’ Their success continued in 2023 with four GRAMMY wins: Best Gospel Performance/Song (“Kingdom” feat. Naomi Raine & Chandler Moore), Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance (“Fear is Not My Future” feat. Brandon Lake & Chandler Moore), Best Contemporary Christian Music Album (“Breathe”), and Best Gospel Album (“Kingdom Book One” Deluxe). The group has also secured four GMA Dove Awards, one Billboard Music Award, and one Soul Train Award.
Sony Pictures’ AFFIRM Films and Provident Films, alongside the cherished Kendrick Brothers, unveiled their official trailer as they prepare for the nationwide theatrical debut of their latest creation, “THE FORGE,” commencing on August 23rd. Set in the captivating universe of their 2015 blockbuster “WAR ROOM,” this stirring drama delves into the profound impact of mentorship, promising audiences an uplifting journey.
The cast of THE FORGE includes familiar faces such as Priscilla Shirer (WAR ROOM), Cameron Arnett (OVERCOMER), Karen Abercrombie (WAR ROOM) and newcomer Aspen Kennedy. Also starring T.C. Stallings (WAR ROOM), BJ Arnett, Ken Bevel
(COURAGEOUS), Former NFL star Benjamin Watson, Jonathan Evans, Jerry Shirerand Tommy Woodard (FAMILY CAMP).
“We made this film to inspire, challenge and motivate viewers to follow Jesus wholeheartedly,” says director Alex Kendrick. “Our hope is that audiences around the world will recognize the pivotal role that Godly mentorship plays in shaping the next generation.”
The Kendrick Brothers continue to create inspiring and compelling stories for audiences of all ages. THE FORGE is their newest feature, joining FACING THE GIANTS,FIREPROOF, COURAGEOUS, OVERCOMER, and WAR ROOM.
“It is an honor to partner with the Kendrick Brothers to bring another powerful story to movie screens that will impact people and glorify Jesus,” says Priscilla Shirer. “The theme of discipleship is near and dear to my heart, especially as a mom to three boys. My prayer is that this film will inspire parents to pray fervently for their children and for the mentors that God will use to impact their lives.”
The film is accompanied by a suite of inspiring products releasing this summer from B&H Publishing Group, including two books by New York Times best-selling authors Alex and Stephen Kendrick titled “Devoted to Jesus” and “Count Me In,” as well as two Bible studies under the Lifeway imprint: The Forge Movie Bible Study and Fully Devoted. B&H will also release I Surrender All by New York Times best-selling author Priscilla Shirer.
THE FORGE is directed by Alex Kendrick (WAR ROOM) and produced by Stephen Kendrick (WAR ROOM), Justin Tolley (“The Chosen,”), Aaron Burns (WAR ROOM) and Trey Reynolds (FAMILY CAMP), and written by Alex and Stephen Kendrick.
The music community is mourning the loss of beloved artist, Mandisa. The GMA Dove Award and GRAMMY® Award-winning artist passed away Thursday, April 18th, 2024 in her home in Nashville. She was 47. The cause of death is not yet known.
Fans first came to know Mandisa when she was a contestant on Season 5 of "American Idol" where she finished in the Top 10. Her TV acclaim led to the release of her first album, True Beauty, released in 2007.
Mandisa, best known for her incredible talent, joyful spirit and genuine love for people, was a celebrated artist with 15 GMA Dove Award nominations and two wins including the 2014 Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year for breakout album Overcomer. A devoted friend to so many, Mandisa collaborated with numerous artists over the years including TobyMac, Matthew West, Michael W. Smith, Kirk Franklin, Jordan Feliz and Jon Reddick.
Her longtime friend, frequent collaborator and former tourmate TobyMac described her best. “Since the first day I met Mandisa, she has been nothing but original and courageous,” Toby shared. “My touring family is better when she is out with us. She genuinely supports each artist that takes the stage, as well as every crew member behind the stage. In a single word, I would say without hesitation that she is one of the most authentic people I have ever met. Her heart is to help others.”
The popular and multi-award-winning gospel music group based in the USA Maverick City Music has taken to their official social media platforms to share the news which says “They have cut ties with singer Dante Bowe.”
In a statement, the prestigious music group and Grammy award winner said Dante’s behavior both professionally and personally had been inconsistent with their values and beliefs. They also further stated that The Maverick City Music is a collective of various artists from many different backgrounds and life experiences; and that no artist’s actions or behavior can always be attributed as a reflection of their core beliefs and values.
They however expressed their love and support for the embattled singer as he continues his journey towards health and happiness.
Mark your calendars! The 55th Annual GMA Dove Awards are happening live in Nashville, TN on Tuesday, October 1st, 2024. Don't miss Christian and Gospel music's biggest night with unforgettable performances from the year's biggest artists. Click here for tickets!
And join us September 29th – October 2nd, 2024 for the Dove Awards Music City Fan Experience. Take in the sights and sounds of Nashville, including an Artist Showcase and Night of Worship. End your experience with a premium ticket to the 55th Annual GMA Dove Awards! Click here for more info!
ATLANTA — Dr. Charles Stanley, a popular Atlanta pastor, has died at his home. First Baptist Church Atlanta tweeted the information Tuesday morning. "Dr. Charles F. Stanley, Pastor Emeritus of First Baptist Atlanta, passed away this morning at home," the tweet said. "We are grateful for his enduring legacy of faithful leadership and spiritual guidance as Senior Pastor of FBA for over 50 years." Stanley was 90 years old. Stanley was known through his wide-reaching TV and radio broadcasts.
His obituary says the following:
"Before joining the staff of First Baptist Atlanta, Stanley served as pastor of Fruitland Baptist near Hendersonville, North Carolina (1957–1959); First Baptist of Fairborn, Ohio (1959–1962); First Baptist of Miami, Florida (1962–1968); and First Baptist of Bartow, Florida (1968). Stanley would become associate pastor of First Baptist Church of Atlanta on October 1, 1969.
The Premier Gospel Awards is an annual event that celebrates gospel music, message and culture. The awards ceremony is one of the biggest events in the UK gospel music calendar and attracts people from all over the UK. This year, the awards will be held at Cadogan Hall in Kensington, one of London’s most prestigious music venues on Friday the 9th of June.
The Premier Gospel Awards has been running for several years and has become a highlight of the gospel music scene in the UK. The awards ceremony recognises the achievements of gospel artists, musicians, and industry professionals who have made a significant contribution to the gospel music genre. The awards categories range from Best Male and Female Artist to Best Choir.
The decision to hold the Premier Gospel Awards at Cadogan Hall is a significant one. Cadogan Hall is known for its exceptional acoustics, and it has played host to some of the world’s most celebrated musicians. The venue has a rich history and has welcomed some of the biggest names in music, including Adele, Beyoncé, and Mobo Awards. By hosting the Premier Gospel Awards at Cadogan Hall, the organizers have demonstrated their commitment to showcasing gospel music on the same platform as other mainstream genres.
The Premier Gospel Awards at Cadogan Hall will be a glamorous affair. The red carpet event will see some of the biggest names in gospel music and world of entertainment walk the red carpet, dressed in their finest attire. The awards ceremony itself promises to be a star-studded affair, with some of the most talented gospel artists in the UK performing live on stage and guests from the world of film, TV & Music who love the genre.
One of the most exciting things about the Premier Gospel Awards is that they showcase the diversity of the gospel music genre. Gospel music has a rich history and has evolved over time to encompass a range of styles, from traditional hymns to contemporary pop-infused tracks. The station showcases gospel styles from Latin, Afro Beats, Reggae, and much more.
The Premier Gospel Awards at Cadogan Hall is a significant event for the gospel music community in the UK. It will serve as the biggest platform to amplify the impact of gospel music on culture, British superstar rapper Stormzy pointed out in an interview with the radio station that gospel music is big and should be celebrated as such. 9th June is sure to be a night to remember for all those who attend.
Congratulations are in order for the TRIBL recording music collectives Maverick City Music for winning FOUR awards at the 65th Annual GRAMMY Awards.
Maverick City Music completely swept all Gospel and Contemporary Christian music categories, winning every category in which they were nominated — Best Gospel Performance/Song, Best Gospel Album, Best Contemporary Christian Music Album, and Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song.
his collaboration — not just with Kirk Franklin, but also with the 1,500 residents at Everglades Correctional Institution — is the heart of the Kingdom,” says Maverick City Music. “For the first time ever, a singular artist won every Christian and Gospel category. This truly is a testament to what following God’s vision can do.”
In addition to the group’s historic GRAMMY wins, Maverick City Music also performed “Without You” alongside Quavo in a moving tribute to Migos’ fallen member Takeoff during the program’s “In Memoriam.” With this performance, the record-breaking music collective aims to raise awareness around gun violence and keep the faith during troubled times.
The GRAMMY-winning album ‘Kingdom Book One’ is a collaboration with Kirk Franklin and aims to raise awareness toward the plight of mass incarceration. At the end of 2022, Maverick City Music wrapped their box-office, record-shattering arena tour with sold-out shows across the country, including Barclays Center in New York City.
Maverick City Music is managed by Undivided Entertainment, and their label home is Tribl Records. Shore Fire Media handles PR representation.
Credit: Thechristianbeat.org
Matthew West, Maverick City Music, Anne Wilson, FOR KING + COUNTRY, Phil Wickham Lead Artist Nominations for 53rd Annual GMA Dove Awards
Nominees revealed by Chris Tomlin, Jimmie Allen, Erica Campbell and more in livestream event
The GMA Dove Awards Nashville event will be held October 18th and will air exclusively on TBN and the TBN app, Friday, October 21st, 2022 at 8:00p.m. ET and 10:00p.m. ET
The Gospel Music Association is pleased to announce nominees for the 53rd Annual GMA Dove Awards. Top nominations include songwriter and producer Jeff Pardo with nine (9) nominations, Matthew West and Maverick City Music with seven (7) nominations each, six (6) nominations for Anne Wilson, Ben Glover, FOR KING + COUNTRY, Jeff Sojka, Jonathan Smith and Phil Wickham and five (5) for Brandon Lake, CeCe Winans, Chandler Moore, Chris Brown, Jonathan Jay, and Steven Furtick. Voted on by the GMA Professional Membership, this year’s nominees were chosen from over 2,087 submitted entries.
Nominees were announced in an artist-hosted livestream event featuring Jimmie Allen, Erica Campbell, Evan Craft, Sonya Isaacs, Brandon Lake, Trip Lee, Chris Tomlin, and Tye Tribbett. The announcement premiered live on the GMA Dove Awards YouTube and Facebook pages.
“Congratulations to this year’s impressive list of Dove Awards nominees,” says GMA President, Jackie Patillo. “For the past few years, we’ve chosen a theme for each show that represents our community and why we celebrate. Today we announced this year’s theme, Sound of Heaven. Although our musical styles may be different, our mission is the same. Together we lift one voice – the sound of heaven.”
Voting for the final winners will run August 18th through August 25th. The GMA Dove Awards are happening live and in person in Nashville, TN, October 18th, 2022. A limited number of tickets are still available. Music City Fan Experience tickets are also available – an unforgettable, multi-day Nashville get-a-way that includes tickets to the Dove Awards. This year’s broadcast will air exclusively on TBN and the TBN app, Friday, October 21st, 2022 at 8:00p.m. ET and 10:00p.m. ET, with an encore presentation on October 28th, 2022 at 8:00p.m. ET and 10:00p.m. ET.
RCA Inspiration celebrated the BET Awards 2022 show, with a night of powerful music and words of inspiration, as Kirk Franklin (Fo Yo Soul/RCA) took the stage performing with Maverick City Music, and garnered a win this year. The sixteen-time GRAMMY®-winning artist/songwriter/producer and GRAMMY®-winning group Maverick City Music teamed up for a vibrant live performance of their single “Kingdom” and Franklin’s beloved hit “Melodies from Heaven.” Their new single “Kingdom,” is featured from the newly-released Maverick City Music x Kirk Franklin album Kingdom Book One (Tribl Records/Fo Yo Soul/RCA Inspiration), which also includes their new recording of “Melodies from Heaven.”
Separately, Kirk Franklin took the stage again, as the previous five-time BET Award winner was honored with his sixth career win. Winning the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award, Franklin won this year as a co-performer with Lil Baby, for their collaboration on the Lil Baby x Kirk Franklin track “We Win.” The #1 hit song was released in May 2021, featured from the Space Jam: A New Legacy Official Soundtrack, which was released by Republic Records and Warner Bros. Pictures. Franklin also delivered an inspiring moment during his acceptance speech, inviting Maverick City Music on stage and passing the baton to celebrate them as the next generation. The BET Awards 2022 show was held in Los Angeles on Sunday June 26th and hosted by Taraji P. Henson. Maverick City Music x Kirk Franklin are continuing to perform live across the country this summer on their Kingdom Tour.
Check out Kirk Franklin’s BET Awards acceptance speech:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tI-Vx2XD_qs
Check out the BET Awards performance with Kirk Franklin and Maverick City Music:
Recognizing gospel music creators and Christian creatives” The 2022 GRAMMYs Awards show, officially known as the 64th GRAMMY Awards, is just around the corner and the gospel industry or Christian creatives had their fair share of nominations. The Recording Academy has announced the nominations for each of the 86 categories.
(The 64th GRAMMY Awards recognize recordings released between Sept. 1, 2020 — Sept. 30, 2021, Mon, Jan. 31, on the CBS Television Network and stream live and on-demand on Paramount+ from 8–11:30 p.m. ET / 5–8:30 p.m. PT.
Prior to the telecast, the GRAMMY Awards Premiere Ceremony will be held at the Microsoft Theater at 12:30 p.m. PT/3:30 p.m. ET and will be streamed live on GRAMMY.com and the Recording Academy’s YouTube channel.
list of Christian/Gospel Music Nominees: Grammy Awards 2022
This grammy award is given to the artist(s) and songwriter(s) (for new compositions) for the best traditional Christian, roots gospel or contemporary gospel single or track.
Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song
This grammy award is given to the artist(s) and songwriter(s) (for new compositions) for the best contemporary Christian music single or track, (including pop, rap/hip-hop, Latin, or rock.)
Long before you go to No. 1 with his genre-defying signature hit, there were years when it was questionable whether Kirk Franklin would even survive.
Abandoned by his parents when he was 4 years old, Kirk was raised in Fort Worth, Texas, by an elderly aunt. With finances being tight, the two collected cans and paper to be recycled and used the money to pay for piano lessons. Apparently, those music lessons were well worth it. At age 11, Kirk was appointed minister of music, leading the adult choir at his aunt’s church.
1. Speaking of Hot
Kirk confesses, “I’m still not where I want to be in my walk, but I’m in hot pursuit of Him.”
2. Turning Up the Heat
No matter how he dresses, Kirk always leaves an indelible image. Foremost fashion faux pas: dressing for an outside venue when the service was held indoors. It wasn’t just the music that was hot.
3. Well-Versed
Currently, Kirk is tuned into Proverbs 3:5. (Trust in the LORD with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding.)
4. Extended Family
Technically, Kirk is a solo artist; but he always travels with a posse of stellar singers and musicians. In his search for talent, he looks for people with “great hearts. It always starts with the heart of the person,” Kirk says. He views his relationship with his ensembles as one of being “a big brother or father figure.”
5. Safe at Home
Yes, Kirk is a natural performer; but he’s also at home, at home. “My desire is to be a passionate father and attentive husband,” he asserts. He loves going to movies and Chuck E. Cheese’s with his kids to “watch them have what I never had.” While most gospel music is based in Nashville, Detroit or Los Angeles, he remains true to his roots in Dallas. “It’s all I’ve ever known.”
American gospel singer and award-winning artiste Jekalyn Carr has been honored recently in Washington DC at the Women’s Songwriters Hall of Fame Awards
Carr, the first Gospel artist to receive this prestigious induction, was celebrated at an elite event hosted by Jody Watley at the National Museum of Women In Arts. This recognition honors her significant contributions to the gospel genre and Carr’s continued ability to inspire and encourage people through her songs.
Carr is undoubtedly one of the top young artists in gospel music, reflected by her consistent sales and radio successes. All before the age of 21, Jekalyn amassed six singles in the Top 10 on Billboard’s Gospel Airplay chart and has earned four Number 1 singles, including her most recent topper, “Changing Your Story.” Jekalyn is a 4x Grammy Nominee and multiple Stellar Award and Dove Award winners.
Koryn Hawthrone delivers a stunning live performance of her 2020 track “speak to me” In which she pleads with God to speak to her.
For the latest edition of GRAMMY.com’s inspirational music video series, Positive vibes only, GRAMMY-nominated American Gospel singer Koryn Hawthrone takes us to church music. It was a performance that was opened by Actor Tabitha Brown with a charming dedication to the power and influence of music. In the powerful video, which you can watch in full below, Hawthrone delivers a lively rendition of her 2020 R&B-styled gospel track “speak to me” which featured on her sophomore album “I Am” which debuted at #1 on Nielsen’s current Gospel Album Chart and #2 on Billboard’s Gospel Consumption chart.
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