|
||
|
||
 |
|||
WEEKLY NEWS 2005NCM NEWS 118 16 DEC 2005Happy Christmas to all our readers from the NCM team: Laura & Paul, Andy, Stuart, Hazel & Paul. We are going to be taking a break for Christmas over the next two weeks so there will be no NCM News next week or the week after. We will still be sending out the charts, so keep your sheets coming in. Also keep sending us your news! enq@newchristianmusic.com The NCM team across Leighton Buzzard were woken up by an almighty rumbling, vibrating bang very early on Sunday morning along with most the surrounding area. Minutes later all was explained on the news, as they told us that an oil depot had exploded 20 miles away in Hemel Hempstead. NCM singer DAVE CLEMO reports, "Pete & Sheila Daly are friends of our living in Hemel Hempstead. They are founder members of CHRISTIANS IN ROAD TRANSPORT and were in direct line of the explosion on Sunday morning. Let’s thank God that they are both well, although their home is a mess." NCM's PAUL POULTON says that his band was booked to play at the Bedford Pentecostal Church on Sunday and we’re at a motel overnight. He says, " We had a room each, it was posh and plush, but you never know where trouble will strike: At 6:03am my bed began to shake and the door to my room began to rattle, I thought it was an earthquake… The strongest blast in peace-time Europe ever. My bass player Ian slept through the whole thing. He's a pretty solid bass player.” Praise God that not more people were hurt in the explosion, but keep in your prayers all those whose homes have been destroyed or have been injured. Staying with PAUL POULTON, he gladly reports that as a direct result of being on NCM this month, he is collaborating with Tony Peters of Primo Music for 'Angels From The Realms Of Glory' to be released as a single to the Pop Market next Christmas (2006). Also did you know www.crossrhythms.co.uk have an interview on their site that Paul did in the Spring? Check it out if you have time, it’s on their opening page. PAUL WHEATER’s Pen Picture is missing on some of the reaction sheets this month… Sorry Paul. Here is a little about Paul: Founder and organiser of the ever-growing WHITBY GOSPEL MUSIC CONVENTION held in North East England, Paul Wheater is a velvet smooth vocalist reminiscent of the late JIM REEVES who has appeared in venues ranging from the London Palladium to local churches.bylands-24@lineone.net www.paulwheater.com 01947 810561 PAUL COLMAN has a new track out this week. Called ‘Holding Onto You’, it is taken from his album ‘Let It Go’. www.paulcolman.com It’s great to have BILL DRAKE back on the NCMdiscs. He entered the NCM Euro Charts at number 2 last week with the DAVID CLYDESDALE T ORCHESTRA, and this week climbed to number 1! Bill is a full time missionary with OPERATION MOBILIZATION acting as International Music Minister for the organisation. Why not check out his website at www.billdrake.com NCM’s SUPERCHIC[K] will have their track on MTV as the theme song for the new series of ‘Real World / Road Rules Challenge: The Gauntlet’. It isn’t the first time their songs have been used for other projects; they have appeared on the soundtracks of the movies STUART LITTLE 3 and THE ICE PRINCESS, as well as on STEEL LANCERS ARENA INTERNATIONAL Playstation 2 game. But it doesn’t end there – NBC will be using their song ‘It’s On’ for promotion of the 2006 Winter Olympics. DJ’s don’t forget PAUL COPESTAKE’s track is called ‘There’s A Light’. The title in the cover of NCM27 is wrong. The BBC WORLD SERVICE is to create an Arabic news channel for the Middle East. The BBC intends to give unbiased, uncensored news to the region. The broadcasting will be free and will be on air for 12 hours for those with cable or satellite TV. The station will be on air in 2007. The BBC have also announced that services broadcast in Bulgarian, Croatian, Czech, Greek, Hungarian, Slovak and Polish will cease in early 2006. (from FEB newsletter) Godfrey Birtill Diary Dates Dec 17th Whitley Bay prayer gathering Dec 18th Lincoln Christmas gathering Dec 19th Lincoln Godfrey's Birthday (CURRY!) Jan 6-7th Wandsworth with Steve Lowton Jan 8th Lincoln New Life Jan 9th Lincoln Worship/prayer gathering Jan 11th York Worship/prayer gathering Jan 13h St Helens Elim Worship/prayer Jan 14th-15 Barrow in Furness worship/prayer Jan 21st South Wales Leaders gathering Jan 26th Whitney Worship/prayer Feb 2-4 North Wales Prayerweek conference Feb 5th Hull New Life PM meeting Feb 6th Lincoln worship prayer gathering Feb 11-12 Kirkham with Rachel Hickson Feb 13-27 USA Tour Virginia + Pen. www.godfreyb.com TRANS WORLD RADIO passed a milestone in their ministry in November. They announced that they now produced programmes in more than 200 language/dialects! It took 41 years for the organisation to pass the 100 language mark, but amazingly they doubled this number in the last 10 years! Praise God! www.twr.org Do you make radio programmes? Well why not check out the JERUSALEM RADIO AWARDS. They are looking for up-to-date, relevant and assessable Christmas broadcast material. The shows must convey the meaning of Christmas. If you are interested go to www.jerusalemradioawards.org.uk or email Lesley Harrison at info@jerusalemradioawards.org.uk. The Indie-rock foursome BEYOND debut album 'The world means you to God' is set for release in April 2006 and will be featured on NCM32 along with the debut album by The ANSELM band. '12tribe Records' is a new Christian music label who say that they are determined to bring musical support to God's voice in the community. DAVID PAUL says, "The label has been designed to harness the musical energy and talent of young serving Christians. To give them a platform in promoting the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, whilst also providing support for young disciples in their Christian pathways. The vision for the label is that it will be an accessible medium for all young people to hear and find out more about God. If you would like to be kept up to date about future developments complete the listener interest form to register interest. This web site is an interim site whilst the official site completion is undertaken. www.12triberecords.com." or email info@12triberecords.com CHRIS RICE has just released his Christmas album called er… ‘Merry Chris Rice’! www.chrisrice.com Check out the NCM Radio Show at www.ncmradioshow.com TOBYMAC is as pleased as punch with the response to his TOYS FOR TOTS campaign. Fans attending Toby’s WinterWonderSlam tour we’re invited to donate toys to tour sponsors Marines Toys For Tots Foundation. The sell-out tour has broken all previous records for donations to the charity. Over 1000 toys we’re collected by Marines from the local military base for the charity in Huntsville alone! In fact they need 15 vans to transport them to the distribution centre! For more information on the charity: www.toysfortots.org Congratulations RILEY ARMSTRONG who has just become a dad! Proud Riley and wife SHANNON have named their new son ZEFFREN KIRBY MITCHELL ARMSTRONG. He was born on 24th November, weighing in at 8lbs 6oz. There are some pictures on Riley’s website of little Zeffren. www.rileyarmstrong.com/blog/ American radio station CHR have been running an unusual competition called ‘JOY WILLIAMS Karaoke Radio Contest’! Listeners were asked to submit their own versions of Joy’s songs and 60,000 members of the public voting online. The winner, JULLIETTE WELP receives tickets to see Joy in concert. Several Christian artists are going to be singing on the soundtrack of a new movie. The movie is called ‘End of The Spear’ and charts the true story of warrior MINCAVANI who killed 5 missionaries 50 years ago. The story from the point of view of the missionaries and their family was told in the book ‘Through Gates Of Splendour’ by ELISABETH ELLIOT, but this movie tells the story from the side of the tribe that Mincavani came from. STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN, NICOLE C. MULLEN, MARK SCHULTZ and BARLOWGIRL are all taking part in the soundtrack. The movie comes out in the US in January. Staying with BARLOWGIRL, they are to feature on a programme focusing on Christian music’s influence on youth culture. The NBC NEWS’s TODAY SHOW followed the girls for a week, filming at one of their concerts. But that wasn’t the only camera crew who the girls have seen recently. They have also been followed by YAHOO MUSIC’s ‘WHO’S NEXT : USER’S CHOICE’. The show allows the viewers to vote on the bands that are shown on the programme. In the past RELIENT K have been voted most popular on the show. For more information, visit http://music.yahoo.com/promotions/whosnext/. SUBSEVEN are to disband. The band made the announcement at a concert because they wanted to tell their fans face to face. They said, “Basically we are done as Subseven... for now, we may piece back together as something else is the future... we all still enjoy playing music together and are all still bro's... but we never want to quench or stop or hinder what God could do with the members of this band... we're leaving it wide open for God to do amazing things in our lives... for now we will enjoy spending time home with family and friends, and seeking God's next step for us.” The band have been together for 6 years. Next month the CRABB FAMILY will be singing on NCM28. The band we’re nominated last week for a GRAMMY AWARD, their third consecutive nomination in that category. Before that the group will be performing at a New Years Eve concert with POINT OF GRACE at CLEMSON UNIVERSITY www.thecrabbfamily.com Coming up on a future NCM is STORYSIDE:B. The five piece band who have been together since 2003 are releasing their very first album on Boxing Day. In preparation for the release, the band have been in LA filming their video with producer SHANE STANLEY. Why not check out the band’s website at www.storysideb.com Awww! Congratulations to NCM’s DJ ANDY HUNTER who has become a daddy. Andy’s wife HELEN gave birth to little EVIE HOPE HUNTER on Monday. Mum and baby are doing well. www.andyhunter.com Better joy next time for STEVE HUGHES who’s song didn’t win the INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN SONG COMPETITION this year. He says, “I'd like to thank everyone who 'supported me' and voted for me… The results were announced yesterday. No, I didn't win - but I'm thankful for the opportunity and grateful for your support. Thanks. The guy who DID win, DREW WEIR (USA), won with a really good song and I'm happy for him.” Staying with STEVE HUGHES he writes, “I plan to have my CDs available - and also some MP3s to download - from the ChristianBands.co.uk sight in the very near future.” In addition to that Steve is heading back into the studio soon to complete his new kids’ album. Congratulations to CROSS RHYTHMS and SPIRIT OF PLYMOUTH FM who have been granted a licence to broadcast for the next 5 years. They expect to be up and running in 2 years. The prestigious CARNEGIE HALL in New York will be swept up in a Christmas ‘Extravaganza’ this week. Top pianist DINO KARTSONAKIS will join the MANHATTAN POPS ORCHESTRA, CHORALE and the CHRISTIAN CULTURAL CENTER’S CHOIR for a musical Christmas celebration. Usually Carnegie Hall hosts a more secular Christmas concert with the RADIO CITY ROCKETTES; but JAMES O’BRYON (of KINGS COLLEGE, Manhattan) dreamed up the idea of a Christ centred Christmas celebration two years ago. James graduated in the same class as DINO in 1964 and he was the ideal person to devise a special ‘true meaning of Christmas extravaganza’ with. Dino says, “It’ll be a Christmas Celebration at Carnegie Hall! I’m not there to preach or anything, but I am there to present the music of the season, and there will be a movement.” Did you know...? We are now taking bookings for Easter songs! Get your song to us by 10th February.enq@newchristianmusic.co.uk If you haven’t heard STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN’s Christmas song ‘All I Really Want For Christmas’, then click over to CMT.com and watch the touching video. The song is about a young boy’s letter to Santa – his request? ‘A shoulder to cry on when I lose. Shoulders to ride on when I win’. In essence all he really wants is a family. Why not check it out on www.cmt.com And Finally… After hearing the Christmas story, and singing "Silent Night" a Sunday School Class was asked to draw what they thought the Nativity Scene might have looked like. One boy did a good likeness of Joseph, Mary and the infant, but off to the side was a roly-poly figure. The teacher, afraid that he had somehow worked Santa Claus into the scene asked him who that was. She wasn't sure whether she was relieved or even more worried when the boy responded... "Oh, that's Round John Virgin." Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year! NCM NEWS 117 9 DEC 2005 Congratulations to CLAY CROSSE and family who have just adopted a little girl called SOPHIE MAY JINGHONG CROSSE. Sophie is from an orphanage in Beijing, China. RENEE, Clay’s wife says, “She is an absolute joy and blessing. When I looked in her crib", she smiled at me. "I laid her in bed with daddy while I changed her and she grabbed at his face and smiled at him… What a gift from God.” www.claycrosse.com The GRAMMY nominations were announced this week and there were lots of NCM artists nominated! AMY GRANT’s album “Rock of Ages ... Hymns & Faith” was nominated in the Best Southern, Country, Bluegrass Gospel category, but that’s not all! All four of the other nominees in that category have appeared on NCM too! THE CRABB FAMILY, LARRY GATLIN, THE JORDANAIRES and OAK RIDGE BOYS are all nominated (in collaboration with others). TIM MCGRAW picks up a nomination for Best Country Collaboration With Vocals with wife FAITH HILL; VINCE GILL is also nominated in the same category. Interestingly BEBE and CECE WINANS go head to head in the Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album category. Well done to all our artists! Here is a round up of other NCM artists nominated: Best Country Instrumental Performance: Charlie Daniels Best Male Country Vocal Performance: George Jones Best Bluegrass: The Del McCoury Band Best Gospel Performance: Kirk Franklin, Donnie McClurkin & CeCe Winans Best Rock Gospel Album: Audio Adrenaline Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album: Steven Curtis Chapman, Michael W. Smith & Third Day Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album: Shirley Caesar, Donnie McClurkin Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album: CeCe Winans There are a whopping 108 categories in The 48th Annual GRAMMY Awards. They will be held in February www.grammy.com The GOSPEL MUSIC ASSOCIATION have announced that they will be hosting a talent contest in the search for a new gospel singer. The GMA ACADEMY REGIONAL TALENT COMPETITION AND SEMINAR will be held in February, with various media personnel, artists, songwriters, musicians and singers. JOY WILLIAMS, MICHAEL CARD and ANTHONY EVANS will be leading conferences. It is a great opportunity to learn from the professionals and showcase your skills at the contest. For more information go to www.gospelmusic.org Deadline for talent contest is 9th January. Get well soon to NOAH HENSON of PILLAR who has just undergone a knee operation. He says, “My doctor did an amazing job and was very pleased with his work. So don't worry, when I get back up, it's going to be better than ever and just remember, nothing can keep me from rocking my heart out for my peeps”. Noah damaged his knee in October tearing his ACL and meniscus (for those of you with a medical dictionary handy!). www.pillarmusic.com December 4th saw the ‘6th Annual Christmas Bluegrass Benefit Concert For The Homeless’ held at the Station Inn in Nashville. Featuring CHERRYHOLMES, THOM BRESH, son of famed guitarist MERLE TRAVIS, GENE JOHNSON of DIAMOND RIO, LARRY STEPHENSON BAND, MISSY RAINES and EDDIE & MARTHA ADCOCK. The event, hosted annually by Eddie and Martha Adcock, DONNA SONNER, together with Gene and JUNE JOHNSON, for the benefit of the homeless men, women and families of Nashville who are assisted through the ‘ROOM IN THE INN’ programme of the CAMPUS FOR HUMAN DEVELOPMENT. It’s still not too late to help the ‘Room In The Inn’ venture…for more information visit www.CHD-Nashville.org Please pray for ex-CATHEDRALS-pianist ROGER BENNETT. His wife DEBBIE writes.,"…First, let me say that Roger and I both know that we are in God's hands, so we do not worry about the details too much. This morning, we found out that Roger's AML (the cancer/leukaemia that necessitated the second transplant) has returned. While not exactly unexpected news (the "minor issues" he has been facing the past couple of weeks were symptomatic of a recurrence), it nonetheless is a blow when you hear the doctor say the words. Many snippets of songs have been running through our minds - some we have penned, and others that have been a blessing to us. What a comfort! Roger is still in the hospital, and will remain there for the next few days. We are still waiting on more test results and doctors' visits that will give us more information. We don't have a plan of attack yet, but it looks like chemotherapy will be the first line of defence. Another concern is that Roger has lost his voice, due to either a mass on his vocal chords, or an enlarged lymph node that is pressing on the chords. Again, we don't know definitively. There is some discomfort involved, but I do admire how he is hanging in there. We are both at peace with the diagnosis, but there are a few moments of fear and uncertainty that crop up now and then…We would love to have your prayers: for us as we are in Houston; for Chelsea in Tennessee; for Jordan as he is on the road with Legacy Five, then back in Tennessee; for our extended families; and for the doctors and nurses as they treat Roger. We are still right where we need to be: In His Grip." Which NCM artist took part in the lighting of the ‘national’ Christmas tree in Washington, D.C. on December 1st? RICKY SCAGGS! KEITH HAMILTON informs us that TRUTHUK have a new website! It is a massive change from its previous site. Keith says, "We are planning to use the internet in a whole range of different ways to improve how we communicate with everyone who is interested in TruthUK ranging from fans, radio stations, bookshops and record companies. We have just taken the first step in this process by upgrading our site." www.truthuk.com Looks great guys! info@truthuk.com Ireland's RAYMOND MCCULLOUGH'S albums are now available on ITUNES, in fact he says that he has sold tracks from 'The Great China Bike Ride' in USA, Canada, UK, Germany and Switzerland stores! Watch out for Raymond’s track on NCM28 next month This link will take you to both albums:http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewArtist?artistId=7452687 . Ex LIBERATION SUITE's, TERRY CLARK says that he recently reconnected with long-time friends in N Ireland and plans a tour all of Ireland and the UK with a band in the future. He asks for feedback from interested media, churches, etc. www.CATALYSTPEOPLE.COM email TCatalyst@aol.com NCM’s CHRIS TOMLIN recently recorded his first live album in his hometown of Texas. Nearly 8000 people turned up at the concert in the AUSTIN MUSIC HALL, but only 5800 got in to see Chris sing ‘Forever’, ‘Famous One’ and ‘Indescribable’. NCM’s DAVID CROWDER BAND were there too with CARY PEIRCE, SETH WALKER and producer ED CASH. The album is out on 26th December.www.ChrisTomlin.com. Ever popular, NCM's GERRY FORD has been nominated for 3 2005 UK COUNTRY AWARDS. The awards are voted on by the public so if you’d like to vote for him, it’s very easy. Just copy and paste these 4 lines onto an email and email it to SueMac@southerncountry.fsnet.co.uk. You can only vote once from any address. I wish to vote in the UK Radio Awards as follows, Country Album of the Year...One More Time - GERRY FORD Country Single of the Year....Another Chance To Dance - GERRY FORD Country Song of the Year......Another Chance to Dance - GERRY FORD There is big news from NOTE FOR A CHILD, as founding member DANIEL GOODMAN is moving on. Daniel and SUSIE BEATTIE created the very successful group after she hired him to do some graphics work three years ago. Daniel says, "I have really enjoyed my time as part of the band, it has been great to spend so much time with a group of really close friends, travelling the country, ministering and playing, meeting people and even collaborating with some. My highlights include playing in the big top at SPRING HARVEST 05, and the surprise I felt when we received such a warm welcome at NEW WINE. I feel my time as part of Note For a Child has come to an end partly because I want to put the emphasis in my life in different places… I also think I need to take a step back for the moment and listen to what God would want me to be involved with next.” Daniel will continue with the band until the end of the year before he embarks on another adventure – marriage! Daniel will marry ANNA ROBBINS in January at SELWYN COLLEGE CHAPEL in Cambridge, where Anna is studying for a PHD at ADDENBROOKS HOSPITAL. Susie says, “"I am very sad to see Daniel leave, as we’ve had a great deal of fun and enjoyed some really stimulating, challenging times of writing and performing together. I know I speak for the whole band when I say we wish him all the very best in his life together with beautiful Anna.” www.noteforachild.com Staying with NOTE FOR A CHILD, SUSIE writes, “…at this point in NFaC’s history, I am really excited at the prospect of seeing the band’s performance transform and mature, as we play an increasingly busy gigging schedule in 2006.” So who are Note For A Child? Well firstly there is Susie Beattie singer and songwriter, NICK RUTTER percussionist, DAVID GANE percussionist also, KATHIE BROWN vocals/violin and tambura, ANDY CROSS, guitars, Ebow and slide guitars. With PAUL HUNT on keyboard, synths and loops and IAN NEWMAN on upright/electric bass. With a packed touring schedule for 2006, Susie says “I am certain that there is much journeying left to be done with the poetry already written and with new material on its way." www.noteforachild.com Nominations for THE STELLAR AWARDs have just been announced with MARY MARY receiving 6! NCM’s DONNIE McCLURKIN and KIERRA "KIKI" SHEARD are also nominated. The 21st Stellar Awards will be in Nashville on 21st January. FRED HAMMOND and THE WINANS are to be honoured at the event. Categories include: Artist of the Year Song of the Year Male Vocalist of the Year Female Vocalist of the Year Choir of the Year Producer of the Year New Artist of the Year CD of the Year Special Event CD of the Year Children's Performance of the Year Quartet of the Year Music Video of the Year Godfrey Birtill Diary Dates Dec 12th Sheffield Brent Lane Meths Dec 17th Whitley Bay prayer gathering Dec 18th Lincoln Christmas gathering Dec 19th Lincoln Godfrey's Birthday (CURRY!) Jan 6-7th Wandsworth with Steve Lowton Jan 8th Lincoln New Life Jan 9th Lincoln Worship/prayer gathering Jan 11th York Worship/prayer gathering Jan 13h St Helens Elim Worship/prayer Jan 14th-15 Barrow in Furness worship/prayer Jan 21st South Wales Leaders gathering Jan 26th Whitney Worship/prayer Feb 2-4 North Wales Prayerweek conference Feb 5th Hull New Life PM meeting Feb 6th Lincoln worship prayer gathering Feb 11-12 Kirkham with Rachel Hickson Feb 13-27 USA Tour Virginia + Pen. www.godfreyb.com Winners of the national BATTLE OF THE BANDS for the UK in 2003, GEN have disbanded. The group from the Midlands recorded their album ‘Rite Of Refusal’ back in 2003 and spent the last few years touring venues sharing their ministry. NEWSONG are to appear on a Christmas movie called ‘The Christmas Blessing’. The movie is a sequel to the ‘The Christmas Shoes’ starring ROB LOWE (West Wing) - Rob has a guest appearance in this movie too. The band are on screen singing the title song. Sad news as we learn that TIM GIBBS of the SOUTHERN SONGBOYS and THE GIBBS FAMILY has died. Tim was planning a solo career after retiring from the Gibbs Family 3 years ago. He passed away on 29th November, aged 66. Tim had a special ministry to Native Americans as he was a full Cherokee Indian. He was raised in a Christian home and became a Christian in 1979, read more about his fascinating story at www.timgibbs.org. Please pray for his wife of 43 years BARBARA and their children. STEVE PARSONS has just returned to the UK after a month of touring in the USA. It was a great trip with concerts and events in South Carolina, Missouri and Texas. His Brit dates are:- Friday 9th Dec. St. Austell Baptist Church, England Saturday 10th Dec. Wadebridge Christian Centre, England Sunday 11th Dec Monaghon, Crossroads Fellowship, Ireland info@steveparsons.net www.steveparsons.net It has been a dramatic week for MINDY SCHWEIGER. Mindy has been on the long road to recovery since her horrific car crash in August, with a broken pelvis, ribs, head injuries and partial severing of her spinal cord. Thus Mindy’s recovery has been nothing short of miraculous. But, this week she suffered a serious set back in the form of a major infection. She was hospitalised for tests and care, but the doctors have still not determined the cause of the problem. Although she is now home, she is very weak and suffering from occasional fevers. Please keep her in your prayers. Staying with MINDY SCHWEIGER, God willing, she hopes to attend the Benefit concert that has been arranged in her honour. Originally she had intended to sing, but this is now unlikely. The benefit is to raise funds for Mindy’s medical expenses. The cookbook compiled by friends and family is now available, as is a specially commissioned perfume called ‘Wonder’. But most importantly, Mindy’s new album is now available. Called ‘Awakening’, it is the much anticipated follow up to her debut album ‘Can You Hear Me’. If you would like to attend the benefit concert go to TCS4U.org for information. For details of Mindy and how to buy her album go to www.mindyschweiger.com From Smyrna, Georgia, DOUG GAZLAY writes, "Thanks for continuing to send in the reviews from your NCM constituents. NCM is remarkable ... It occurred to me that some people might not be grasping the true message from ‘Mable’s Christmas’. True, it is about a homeless woman in the snow. But if you really listen deeper, it holds the Christian message of thinking on the positive things- “whatever things are lovely and of good report”, no matter what is going on in your world. Mable is down, but she’s not defeated because she’s letting the true Spirit Of Christmas fill her heart. And she passes that along to everyone she meets. God in turn is blessing her with her situation improving even as the song develops. So, for those who might not have heard that, please give ‘Mable’s Christmas’ another listen and see if you now hear a song about God’s love and hope, as well as human kindness and joy. It just might bless you, and help you feel the Spirit Of Christmas, no matter what’s going on in your world. Merry Christmas to all who have given ‘Mable’ a radio home. I’m honoured, humbled and grateful. All the best!” www.douggazlay.com Got a spare five minutes? Why not check out DAVE CLEMO’s new website? www.daveclemo.co.uk MERCYME may be singing Christmas songs on their tour with STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN, but now you have the chance to pelt them with snowballs! It is all part of a new on-line game MercyMe’s Snowball Showdown. Prizes include a guitar, hat, scarf and free downloads. www.mercyme.com And Finally… Occupational hymns: Weatherman's Hymn: There Shall Be Showers of Blessings Contractor's Hymn: The Church's One Foundation The Tailor's Hymn: Holy, Holy, Holy The Golfer's Hymn: There Is a Green Hill Far Away The Politician's Hymn: Standing on the Promises Optometrist's Hymn: Open My Eyes That I Might See Thee Taxman’s Hymn: I Surrender All The Gossip's Hymn: Pass It On The Electrician's Hymn: Send The Light The Shopper's Hymn: Sweet Bye and Bye The Massage Therapists Hymn: He Touched Me Estate Agent's Hymn: I've Got a Mansion, Just Over the Hilltop NCM NEWS 116 2 DEC 2005 The nominees for the 5th ANNUAL PRAISE AWARDS were announced this week. There are 6 categories Best Praise & Worship Song, Best Scripture Song, Best Compilation, Best Urban or Gospel Project, Best Worship Project and 2005 Breakthrough Artist. The winners will be announced in March. NCM’s HILLSONGS, BEBO NORMAN, BROCKLYN TABERNACLE CHOIR and DAVID CROWDER BAND are all up for nomination. Voting is taking place on line at www.worshipleader.com or www.songdiscovery.com Christian recording artist FFH will release its sixth studio album ‘Voice From Home’ on Essential Records in January 2006. The project features original pop songs with the theme of God speaking to His people. This theme comes from the mentorship of FFH front man JEROMY DEIBLER by pastor and author RICH STEVENSON through which the close-knit band drew inspiration. Rich Stevenson's book, titled ‘A Voice From Home’, (Waterbrook Press, Sept. 2005) evoked conversation with Jeromy, and further discussion with all members of FFH. Jeromy and his band mates then wrote songs they describe as the other side of worship. Rather than writing songs to God, FFH wrote songs from God in words of encouragement, hope and love as expressed through Biblical scriptures. Every song on the album is routed in scripture, but it’s designed so you can listen to the Father's voice in common everyday language, says Jeromy. The songs on the album are in first person; it’s God talking to his people. FFH plans to tour in the U.S. with Rich Stevenson holding church events that feature scriptural teachings from his book with music from ‘Voice From Home’. FFH has garnered seven No. 1 radio singles including ‘Still The Cross’ and seven GMA MUSIC AWARD nominations since their debut in 1998. For more information, please visit www.ffh.net , wwwavoicefromhome.com and www.essentialrecords.com Change is afoot in the TREE63 camp. The band who have been together since 1996, lost their drummer DARRYL SWART in 2003, but they have just announced that he’s coming back! Darryl was replaced with THEUNIS ODENDAAL who left the band in the spring. JOHN and DANIEL are delighted to welcome Darryl back. The band have a new album called ‘I Stand For You’ just out. www.tree63.com Which NCM band appeared on MTV and MTV2 this week? RELIENT K appeared on the ‘Hard Rock Live’ show. This is the band’s second time on the NCMdiscs, this time round they are singing a song called ‘The Truth’. www.relientk.com GODFREY BIRTILL Diary Dates Dec 3rd Birmingham Betel Dec 4th Louth Dec 5th Lincoln Prayer gathering Dec 6th Lincoln GL Leaders Dec 12th Sheffield Brent Lane Meths Dec 17th Whitley Bay prayer gathering Dec 18th Lincoln Christmas gathering Dec 19th Lincoln Godfrey's Birthday (CURRY!) Jan 6-7th Wandsworth with Steve Lowton Jan 8th Lincoln New Life Jan 9th Lincoln Worship/prayer gathering Jan 11th York Worship/prayer gathering Jan 13h St Helens Elim Worship/prayer Jan 14th-15 Barrow in Furness worship/prayer Jan 21st South Wales Leaders gathering Jan 26th Whitney Worship/prayer Feb 2-4 North Wales Prayerweek conference Feb 5th Hull New Life PM meeting Feb 6th Lincoln worship prayer gathering Feb 11-12 Kirkham with Rachel Hickson Feb 13-27 USA Tour, Virginia + Pen. www.godfreyb.com JAMES BATCHELOR tells us that his 'OLD SANTA CLAUS' single is on a website and folks can hear 2 minutes of it. Recipients of NCM27, will of course have it already! To hear the track online go to: www.cdbaby.com/jbatchelor6 The BRITISH COUNTRY MUSIC ASSOCIATION (BCMA) is saddened to announce the death of one of its founding members, MIKE STOREY. He died in his sleep, November 26, and had been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease earlier in the year. Mike was a prime supporter of the British Country Music scene since the late 1950s, when he co-founded the FOLK VOICE tape magazine and annual concerts with JIM MARSHALL. Further achievements of the BCMA came with the creation of an annual yearbook, a bi-monthly newsletter and annual awards. In the early 1970s Mike Storey launched an entertainment agency and/or managed many UK artists & also set up tours for US acts. Mike Storey was 68 years old years. Please pray for his wife JEAN, and children CATHERINE and JAMES. NCM27 came out this week, and already your reaction sheets are coming in. PLEASE NOTE – the track name for PAUL COPESTAKE is wrong. The correct title is ‘THERE’S A LIGHT’. DJs please mention the correct title when introducing the song! So sorry for our mistake Paul. Staying with PAUL COPESTAKE, check out his cool website at www.paulcopestake.co.uk . There are some great behind-the-scenes photos taken in the recording studio! Last week we told you about NCM GARTH HEWITT who is due to appear at a Christmas event in London on 7th December. Well this week we heard that he will be joined by radio/TV presenter SIMON MAYO. The evening guarantees mince-pies, mulled wine and a mirrorball! 7pm All Hallows On The Wall, London, EC2M 5ND. RSVP info@amostrust.org or call 0207 588 2638 by 5th December. Chris Neal reports, "SUPERHERO's new album, entitled 'Fake Lunar Landing' is now in UK stock. The band are getting a great response to the new release. We are delighted that legendary record producer ALAN BRANCH is once again on board. Having worked with BJORK, PRIMAL SCREAM, BLUR, SADE and a ton of others, he wanted to be at the head of the project. Indeed he delayed his work with DANIEL BEDINGFIELD and squeezed a new project with U2 to commit to this album." chrisn@fiercedistribution.com Next time you are browsing on iTUNES check out CHRIS MERCER’s album ‘Whispers Of His Grace’. Staying with CHRIS MERCER, she has been booked as one of the key speakers at the BEYOND THE VEIL 2006 CONFERENCE to be held in Wellingborough on 27-28 Jan 06. Which NCM artist is in South Africa filming a video this month? RUSS TAFF (NCM16). ‘I See Beautiful’ is the new recording from TAMMY TRENT. It is Tammy first recording since her husband TRENT LENDERINK died in Jamaica on September 10th 2001. The couple had been enjoyed a well earned holiday when Trent failed to surface while he was diving. Trent’s body was recovered the following day – September 11th and Tammy headed back to her hotel room in shock, only to turn on the TV and see carnage caused by the terrorists back home in the US. Due to flights being grounded, Tammy couldn’t return home but fortunately Trent’s father was out of the US at the time and was able to join Tammy in Jamaica. Whilst waiting for his arrival, Tammy ‘paralysed with grief’ prayed that God would send an angel to comfort her. The ‘angel’ God sent was the hotel maid, resplendent in Hilton uniform, who let herself into the room when she heard Tammy crying. Tammy has used her experiences to write a book called ‘Learning To Breathe Again’. The book and album are available at www.tammytrent.com THE KANTINAS have just released a new album featuring tributes to some of the biggest ‘hits’ from the Christian music world. The family group have covered songs from MICHAEL W SMITH, AMY GRANT, KEITH GREEN, IMPERIALS, RICH MULLENS and ANDRAE CROUCH. The five guys are from American Samoa (2000 miles south of Hawaii) and grew up listening to various Christian songs and together they compiled a list of 100 of their favourites. The 100 songs were eventually slimmed down to 11, which the guys recorded with top producer BROWN BANNISTER. An unusual choice of song was the secular track ‘The Living Years’ by MIKE AND THE MECHANICS, a song which the Kantinas have long admired and feels sums up their family relations. The group have been very successful since they began in the early 90s. So far they have toured with Amy Grant and Michael W Smith and been nominated for a DOVE AWARD 8 times. The new album is called ‘Timeless’. For more information go to www.thekantinas.com Staying with THE KANTINAS, the guys were in Louisiana to support FRANKLIN GRAHAM during an outreach. But they were a member short – why? Drummer Joe had a much more pressing engagement… watching his son at a LITTLE LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP FOOTBALL GAME! Young Josh’s team FRANKLIN COWBOYS won! Well done Josh!www.thekatinas.com. The BANDWITHNONAME are still here in the UK on tour, here’s where you can see them: Thursday 1st December - Southampton steve.ineedfreshair@ntlworld.com Friday 2nd – 3rd December – Swindon and Chippenham 01793 855160 Thursday 8th December – Barking marie.polley@fsmailnet Friday 9th December - Dartford paulandlynandlaura@btopenworld.com Saturday 10th December – Walsall andrew_morgan@ecotec.co.uk Sunday 18th December – Congleton jeff.cutts@nlchurch.org.uk KEN BYFORD, GodsChild Records & NCM Records Artist, will headline the "ACGMA", Alabama Country & Gospel Music Assn, Christmas Down South Concert at the Sony Hall Auditorium of Troy State University Campus in Dothan, Alabama, on December 10, 2005. Ken has been the recipient of several awards for the Christmas music video containing the song "Beneath The Talmadge Bridge" that is officially endorsed by the Birmingham, Alabama Division of The Salvation Army. The European radio release of the song itself is currently on the NCM Euro Christmas Chart at #4 and was previously at #2 for two weeks. Tickets - (AC 334) 692-3147. Well done to MARY MARY who won the AMERICAN MUSIC AWARD for Favourite Contemporary Inspirational last week. Staying with the AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS, hats off to NCM’s TIM MCGRAW who took home two awards! They were both in the Country section, for Best Male Artist and Best Album (‘Live Like You Were Dying’). Congratulations Tim! The AUSTRALIA GOSPEL MUSIC ASSOCIATION held the AUSTRALIAN GOSPEL MUSIC AWARDS last month in beautiful Canberra. The awards have become known as THE ANGELS because of the Association’s guitar-playing angel logo! Here are some of the winners: LEIGH CUNNINGHAM – Best Gospel Pop Song – ‘My Prayer For You’ FAMILY – Peak Achievement Award HILLSONG CHURCH – Best Independent Gospel Artist Award BOB RICKETS – Best Country Song – ‘Angel Of The Skies’ GURYEL ALI – Yamaha Best Gospel Song Gold Award All full list of the winners can be found at www.agma.org.au Christian music stalwart KIRK FRANKLIN joined his wife TAMMY to be interviewed on THE OPRAH WINFREY SHOW on Wednesday. They were there to talk about his battle against pornography. Kirk felt it was important to share his struggle to encourage others to do the same. Can you ‘sing and scream’? Well, if you can you could be the new singer with the HASTE THE DAY band! The band have announced that they are looking for a new singer to take over from JIMMY RYAN in the new year. Jimmy has been in the band for 4 years but he says, “I feel like this chapter in my life is coming to a close and it is time for me to move on. The guys in my band are my best friends and my brothers and my decision to leave has been a difficult one. I will miss them quite a bit as they continue on and as the band continues to grow as I am confident it will. The past 4 years have been some of the best years of my life.” The band are now searching for a vocalist with touring experience – they are heading to Germany, Italy, England, Holland, Scotland, France and Belgium in January. If that could be you email management@kulture-entertainment.com JEREMY CAMP has been on his ‘Revolve Tour’ for the past few weeks across America. Now he’s back to promote his new ‘Live and Unplugged’ CD/DVD. The new material is under the heading ‘Camping Gear’ on Jeremy’s website: www.jeremycamp.com Sad news this week as we learn that WILSON ‘LIL’ WATERS of the FAIRFIELD FOUR has died. He passed away last Thursday at home after a struggle with cancer, he was 74. Wilson joined the popular group in 1982 as 2nd tenor, recording 4 albums as well as vocal appearances on ELVIS COSTELLO, STEVE EARLE, THE DEL MCCOURY BAND, KEVIN WELCH, JOHN FOGERTY and COLIN LINDEN’s albums. Colin says, “He didn't step out that often as a lead voice, but once in a while he would take a verse or part of a verse and he would astound you with his power. It was something that he kept in his back pocket." He had a taste of Hollywood in 2002 when he joined the cast of the movie ‘O Brother, Where Art Thou?’ where he can be seen singing ‘Lonesome Valley’ whilst digging a grave. The soundtrack of the album gained Wilson his second GRAMMY AWARD. His first came in 1998 when the Fairfield Four’s album ‘I Couldn’t Hear Nobody Pray’ won the best traditional soul gospel album. Please keep Wilson’s children RONNIE, JOHNNIE, TOMMY, TIMOTHY and JULIE in your prayers How many of you parents have lamented about the amount of time your kids spend on their games consol? CRAVE ENTERTAINMENT have created a game that might ease your minds. It is a game designed for the PLAYSTATION 2, GAME BOY ADVANCE and XBOX called THE BIBLE GAME. The game is set up with the player as a guest on a face-paced game show. The computer asks quick-fire questions about the Bible whilst telling stories and giving teaching. It can be played by up to 4 players and the difficulty level can be changed to suit experience. The game has earned the approval of the DOVE FOUNDATION who have named it ‘Family Friendly’. It also has a soundtrack by TOBYMAC, JEREMY CAMP and NEWSBOYS. So far the game is only available in the US. Hymns for the over 70’s… Precious Lord, Take My Hand, and Help Me Up It Is Well with My Soul, But My Knees Hurt Nobody Knows the Trouble I Have Seeing Just a Slower Walk with Thee Count Your Many Birthdays, Name Them One by One Go Tell It on the Mountain, But Please Speak Up Blessed Insurance Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah (I've Forgotten Where I've Parked) The Old Rugged Face NCM NEWS 115 25 NOVEMBER 2005 It’s not uncommon for bands to give away their CD in a competition, but how often do they come in their very own mini-van?! The band KJ-52 are giving away their touring vehicle along with t-shirts, CDs and posters. The van ‘died’ after an impressive 250,000 miles service. To win the van and goodies, you need to film a music video to the band’s new song ‘Napoleon Dynamite’. For more information www.becrecordings.com/kj52contest/ Better than a Blankety Blank cheque book and pen! NCM’s DELIRIOUS? Have got a busy few months lined up for them. Firstly they are releasing their new studio album ‘Mission Bell’ on 26th December, then in the spring they will tour with MICHAEL W SMITH in the UK, and across the US. Staying with DELIRIOUS? they have teamed up with MATT REDMAN to write a song for their new album. It is called ‘Now Is The Time’. For more information go to www.delirious.co.uk. Please pray for comedian/singer MARK LOWRY who has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Mark is one of the most popular members of the GAITHER HOMECOMING FRIENDS series and a former member of the GAITHER VOCAL BAND. He was in concert on Friday evening in Dallas when he told the audience about the disease. MS is a progressive neurological disease that affects the central nervous system (brain, spinal cord and optic nerves). It causes disruptions of balance, vision, mental function, strength and muscle control – at present there is no cure. Here is the inspirational statement that Mark has issued on his website, “I found out last Monday. Actually, I have known for years but have been ignoring it. Around 4-5 years ago I noticed I was losing the hearing in my right ear. I went to the doctor who sent me to have an MRI. They discovered my brain looked like a starry night. Multiple Sclerosis causes your brain to have plaque on it, which looks like stars on the MRI. Recently, I had another attack and went to see the neurologist who told me he couldn't believe this was the first attack I'd had in five years. He said I probably have had other attacks and didn't know it. But it's a very slow type of M.S. I'm under a doctor's care and appreciate your prayers. But, don't pray that God will heal me. Pray that His will will be done. If He wants me to go down this road, I wanna go! I'm sure there are diamonds to discover on the journey. And, if you pray that I'm healed, and I am, I will miss the diamonds. So, I want whatever He wants. And as long as He's holding my hand, I'll be just fine.” Soul Survivor's home Church in Watford is hosting the ‘Immerse Theological Conference’ from 9th-11th February. They will be exploring God's truth with inspiring yet accessible theological teaching. The conference will be hosted by MIKE PILAVACHI with guest speakers STEVE ROBBINS from Columbus VINEYARD and CONRAD GEMPF lecturer at London School of Theology, worship lead by LEX BUCKLEY and BEN CANTELON. For further information call Samantha Egger on 01923 693418. PAUL SEVERN (Publicity Co-ordinator AUTHENTIC MEDIA) tells NCM that THEBANDWITHNONAME and TBC took part in a special PRIDE AND PREJUDICE-styled photo shoot at Lyme Park, Cheshire, to mark the announcement of a new track available exclusively from ITUNES next month. 'Justified' is the new download-only single from thebandwithnoname’s new line-up and features their fellow INNERVATION TRUST band tbc. It is available from Thursday 29 December from www.itunes.co.uk The single is a double A side with thebandwithnoname’s new track, 'Pull Up The Vinyl', also exclusively available through iTunes. Hip hop/rock group thebandwithnoname unveiled their all-new live show last month and are currently on tour with tbc. TOMMY CLARK of THE MESSENGERS from Texas writes, "Just wanted to all our NCM friends for your prayers for Jeff Seaton. He came through surgery fine, the tumour was benign, and he is on the road to full recovery. In addition, Jeff Clark & wife Angela had a new bouncing baby boy on November 18th. His name is Hayden Jeff Clark, and I am the proud Grandpa. God is GREAT!" NCM's LOU LOLLIO was on TBN TRINITY BROADCASTING NETWORK last week. The program was ‘The Power to Dream' with Pastor Matthew Barnett’. Lou was playing Coach Digger Phelps of Notre Dame fame. Please drop him a line and let him know what you thought about the program. http://www.LOLLIO.com GARTH HEWITT is set to appear at a special concert evening looks on 7th December in London. The evening is called ‘Advent with Amos: Making Holy Dreams Come True’. It is a great opportunity to look towards Christmas and hopefully raises some funds for friends in Bethlehem. The event promises three M’s – mince-pies, mulled wine and… a mirrorball! There will be an opportunity to give a donation to ‘Wi’am’ in Bethlehem. For more information and to save your seat, call 0207 588 2638 or info@amostrust.org by 5th December. Here's something for our poetry friends, MIKE BARTHOLOMEW-BIGGS says that he is pleased to announce the appearance of his new poetry pamphlet "Helping with Enquiries" which collects his Christmas poems from the last few years and adds a few extra ones as well. He says, "Previously it was only possible to save these poems using ‘magnetic-fastener-and-fridge-door’ technology. Now, at last, the new and efficient ‘chapbook’ storage and retrieval system has become available. These elegant little volumes could make excellent Christmas gifts for your friends and family - or for yourself. And at only £3 they are just the thing for those last-minute stocking fillers"(Reclaim your fridge!). mbiggs@sampo.plus.com Well done to DAVE BILBROUGH who has just received 2 Gold (1st) awards from the CHRISTIAN BROADCASTING COUNCIL. He took home the Best Christian Music DVD/Video-‘This is My Worship’ and the Best Christian Music Programme : The Live Tsunami Concert recording of ‘This is My Worship’. GRAEME SPENCER of CLOAK PRODUCTIONS produced both the DVD and the Tsunami concert. The programme was shown on God TV and broadcast worldwide (except in the US). So what does Dave say about all this attention? "It’s quite an honour to receive this award!” Everyone likes to have a laugh and you could have the chance of being entertained by comedienne CHONDA PIERCE. Tickets are being sold to watch Chonda filming a project called ‘A Piece Of Mind’ on 6th January. Tickets are only $12.50 at World Outreach Church, Murfreesboro, Tennessee. https://secure.birchfalls.com/Birchfalls/clients/Chonda Stuck for Christmas gift ideas for a music fan? NCM’s PAUL DAVIS has a series of ‘stories behind the songs’ books and musical biographies that are ideal stocking fillers! Go to www.pauldavisauthor.com/the_books.asp Last week the NCM team had the pleasure of attending a concert by JERRY ARHELGER. Jerry has quite some story to tell after he was told he was dying of cancer. The tumours were in his windpipe, liver, colon and brain. Doctors said that Jerry would not live, let alone sing again – but God doesn’t listen to doctors! Jerry’s tour of the UK continues; why not see if you can get there? Tonight Northampton (Country/ Cosy Dixon) S 26 Nov Wellingborough (Country/ Cosy Dixon) S 27 Kettering (Country-Gospel/ Dave Clemo) M 28 Kettering (Country-Gospel/ Dave Clemo) T 29 Kettering (Country-Gospel/ Dave Clemo) W 30 Cambridge (Country/ Cosy Dixon) T 1 Dec Rothwell (Bec Studios) Barrie Fletcher F 2 Merseyside (Gospel/ Janis English) S 3 Wallasey (Gospel/ Janis English) Oasis Church, Wallasey S 4 Merseyside (Gospel/ Janis English) Contact Paul Davis enq@newmusicenterprises.co.uk 01525 237700 for more information Which NCM band will be taking to the stage with THE PUSSYCAT DOLLS, WILL SMITH and the BACKSTREETBOYS next month? RELIENT K, are taking part in several Christmas events including one at PHILLIPS ARENA, Atlanta with all the artists above. For more information go to www.relientk.com Staying with RELIENT K, they have just released their new track, “In Like A Lion (Always Winter)’. It was inspired by the soon-to-be-released movie ‘THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE’. Watch out for STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN’s song from the NARNIA soundtrack next month on NCM27. STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN’s Christmas tour with MERCYME kicked off on Thursday in Greenville, SC. Steven’s Christmas single is the title track from his new album ‘All I Really Want For Christmas’. The song will touch many a heartstring as it about a boy who instead of asking for toys for Christmas asks for a family. The song was inspired by the charity Steven and his wife MARY BETH set up to aid adoption, SHAOHANNAH’S HOPE. The family have adopted 3 children from China, but in China alone there are over 5 million children without parents. The charity gives grants and assistance to help those who want to adopt. The chorus of the song is ‘All I really want for Christmas is someone to tuck me in, a shoulder to cry on if I lose and shoulders to ride if I win, There’s so much I could ask for but there’s one thing I really need, All I really want for Christmas, is a family.’ www.stevencurtischapman.com Top funny men CANNON & BALL have grabbed their mosquito nets and headed into the Australian jungle for ‘I’m A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here!’. The duo became Christians a few years ago and now share their testimony during their comedy routines. They entered the jungle unannounced after another contestant went home sick. Don’t forget, the NCM Radio Show is now available online for radio stations to download. Sign up today! 170 radio stations already have! www.ncmradioshow.com If you are a DJ / Journalist and would like to receive the NCMdiscs, drop us a line… Songstress SANDI PATTY released her Christmas album this week. Entitled ‘Yuletide Joy’ it is, as expected, full of big orchestral sounds and arrangements which marry perfectly with Christmas songs. Some the arrangements were done by top orchestrator DAVID T CLYDESDALE (NCMdisc next month!). Sandi is promoting the CD on her ‘Yuletide Celebration’ tour. She has been in rehearsals for the shows for a month with the Indianapolis Symphony, singers and dancers. There are 9 costume changes to squeeze in too! There are 27 shows throughout December, more information on her website. Sandi’s husband DON will also be on tour with her and she says she’s so looking forward to spending the month with him that she’s nicknamed it the ‘date-month’! www.sandipatty.com HILLSONGs saw one of the initiatives honoured recently. The organisation has set up a project in the Sydney area called ‘Hillsong Emerge’ which aids people in poverty. The UNITED NATIONS honoured TOM SINES and KAREN KELLY recently for their entrepreneurial spirit. Hillsong Emerge gave Tom a business loan when everyone else had turned him down. They also gave business support as he set up his lawn mowing business. With the loan he bought 2 mowers and 18 months on, is employing 13 people! Hillsong Emerge’s CEO LEIGH COLEMAN says “The program is designed to give people a hand up, not a hand out.” HEATHER POWERS has led a dramatic life so far, suffering divorce, addiction, breakdown, rape and assault, but now she is singing and sharing about God’s healing grace in concerts across the US. Heather, the daughter of a pastor, had a stable up bringing until she was assaulted by a man who broke into the house when she was 13. The experience set off a destructive chain-reaction which led to being rock bottom in hospital. Slowly God began to rebuild her life and she has just embarked on a Christmas tour with BRYAN DUNCAN, RACHAEL LAMPA and MARTHA MUNIZZI. She also leads worship at conferences. Earlier in the year Heather was busy recording vocals for the movie version of the Broadway musical ‘Rent’. The film, directed by CHRIS COLUMBUS (‘Harry Potter’, ‘Home Alone’) released in the US this week, it held its premier at GEORGE LUCAS’ ‘Skywalker Ranch’. Did you know...? We are now taking bookings for Easter songs! Get your song to us by 10th February. enq@newchristianmusic.co.uk RANDY TRAVIS is hooking up with GIBSON GUITARS to raise money for charity. Along with other country artists Randy has customised a guitar which will feature in a limited edition book. The proceeds raised by the book will go to Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, United Way of Nashville, and The DISTRICT. Randy’s guitar has a simple western looking sash across it along with his signature. AMY GRANT, WILLIE NELSON, MARTINA MCBRIDE, KENNY ROGERS, VINCE GILL and EMMYLOU HARRIS are some of the other singers to take part in the book entitled ‘Nashville’s Guitar Art: The Art of a Music City Legend’. www.randytravis.com Here at NCM we want to wish all our American readers a Happy Thanksgiving. The thanksgiving story is, of course, to do with the Pilgrims; but we all have the opportunity to be thankful for all that we have – and for all that we don’t have. Here’s a nice poem that will get you thinking… How To Observe Thanksgiving. Count your blessings instead of your crosses; Count your gains instead of your losses. Count your joys instead of your woes; Count your friends instead of your foes. Count your smiles instead of your tears; Count your courage instead of your fears. Count your full years instead of your lean; Count your kind deeds instead of your mean. Count your health instead of your wealth; Count on God instead of yourself. Author Unknown NCM NEWS 114 18 NOVEMBER NEWSONG are back this month with a new Christmas song which is inspired by the book ‘The Christmas Shoes’. ‘The Christmas Blessing’ is out just in time for the band’s tour which will take them to 16 cities across the US. We had this nice note from DENNIS PAYNE Station Manager of SON FM and DJ on HOT FM. He writes, “…well done NCM, you do a TOP JOB, all in the Christian music industry should be proud of you and your team.” Dennis' stations are some of the many stations who receive the New Christian Music Radio Show which is now available to radio stations via the internet, he says, “The Radio Show is getting good comments from our listeners too.” Dennis continues. For more information on the show go to www.ncmradioshow.com JEANINE NOYES’ Christmas song ‘Rise Up Shepherds and Follow’ is receiving lots of airplay from NCMdisc 26. She will be touring Germany in March 2006 and passing through Scotland too. Here are the dates: 3rd March: Gemeindesaal Hüttenberg: double concert with ANDY LANG 4th Promikon, Mannheim: Christian music fair 5th ConTact, Coburg. Jeanine solo 9th Schützenhaus Helmbrechts: Double concert with Andy Lang 10th Stadthalle Gefrees: Festival Night of sounds 11th Irish Folk Festival Wunsiedel with Andy Lang & band & bardic 12th PAUL METZ HALLE ZIRNDORF, Irish Folk Festival Right now Jeanine is working on a tour for early July in Ireland with guitar player Jason Carter. If you are interested in booking Jeanine for your event, church service or coffeehouse / pub either in the Glasgow area in March or in the UK in early July or early August go to www.jeaninenoyes.com From Georgia USA, DOUG GAZLAY writer of ‘Mable’s Christmas’ (NCM26) writes, "Wow! Paul! Thanks SO much for the updates. Needless to say, I’m SO excited about the acceptance of ‘Mable’ by stations so far! Very cool! Amy’s [Thorn] pretty excited, too! Bravo!!! Did you see the video we created? If not, it’s here: www.tiny-link.com/vl.asp?h=5853505585ZUJIIB&l . I want to send this to station people who comment positively on the song. The only way to get this to anyone outside the USA is by digital download at www.mableschristmas.com So, glad to be on your CD this edition!" Glad to have you on board Doug! SOUL SURVIVOR is re-launching a conference designed for Youth Leaders. It is from Friday 3rd - Sunday 5th February 2006 at Elveden Forest, Center Parcs, and will be hosted by MIKE PILAVACHI with worship lead by TIM HUGHES. From Austria, radio DJ PETE LENLOY writes, "Dear NCM team! Many thanks for the help over the whole year. Your music is ALWAYS welcome and my radio work with "Gospel matinee" goes on and on and on." TIM CHESH tells us that the new SUPERHERO rock album "Fake Lunar Landing" is now available. www.superhero.org.uk CHRIS MERCER’s album ‘Whispers of His Grace’ has been released worldwide on ITUNES after Chris signed with a UK mainstream record company for this purpose. Also, Chris unexpectedly became the ‘cover girl’ on the November edition of ‘Indie Islands’ magazine! For more information go to www.myspace.com/chrismercer CLINT MILLER is now home in California from Nashville where he was thrilled to receive ‘The Living Legend Award’ at the ICMA show at the RYMAN AUDITORIUM! It was broadcast live on the GAC TV network. Clint modestly stated, "It was fun!" Our NCM congratulations to Clint! Staying with the INSPIRATIONAL COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS, two other NCM artists came away with awards, TIM MCGRAW won the ‘Song Of The Year’ award with ‘Live Like You We’re Dying’, and COREY BROOKS won the ‘Youth In Music Award’. Well done guys! Here’s a cherry-picked round-up of who won what: Male Vocalist - Randy Gunn Female Vocalist - Melanie Walker Song of the Year – ‘Live Like You Were Dying’, Tim McGraw Mainstream Country Artist - Craig Morgan Pioneer Award - Marty Raybon Living Legend Award – Clint Miller Youth In Music Award – Corey Brooks Everybody in the UK was shocked and angered by the murder of 10 year old DAMILOLA TAYLOR, 5 years ago. Damilola was stabbed as he walked home from an after-school computer club at his local library in Peckham, London. His family have set up the DAMILOLA TRUST which is holding 2 events to commemorate 5 years since his death. The first event at The Barbican in London will be about encouraging youngsters away from crime. The second will be concert in Peckham. Headlining the event, which will be broadcast nationally via the news and on radio, will be FOUR KORNEZ. For more information go to www.damilolataylortrust.org Out on Christmas tour is AMERICAN IDOL CLAY AITKEN, but don’t expect an ordinary concert if you go… To carry across the real meaning of Christmas, actors and dancers will deliver the Nativity during the first half, alongside carols and Christian songs. The second half of the concert will be made up of secular Christmas songs. From Los Angeles, PAT BOONE writes, "Well, we're back in tandem again, aren't we? My thanks to NCM for helping make England and Europe aware of "Thank You BILLY GRAHAM". For a long time now, I've felt this tribute will resonate with millions, thankfully while Billy's still with us (he has expressed his love and gratitude for it several times) and certainly when he goes to his glorious eternal reward, I think the world media will clamour for it then, and I want it well in place and known before that. So I thank you again. ... I was on the platform with him in a big L.A. coliseum crusade some years ago, and then again in Washington, DC, and then SHIRLEY and I were on the platform with him and BEV SHEA and CLIFF BARROWS at the Rose Bowl this January. Each time was a monumental honour and a goose-bumpy experience -- in spite of our 35 or 40 year friendship. It's just the "aura" (halo?) over and around Billy that keeps you aware that he is one of God's apostles. " JETHRO TULL’s NCM track is proving very popular on NCM26 this month. Jethro (aka IAN ANDERSON) has just appeared on a new charity album along with 20 other artists to raise funds for WWF (WORLD WIDE FUND FOR NATURE), ULSTER WILDLIFE TRUST and other conservation projects. For more information go to www.j-tull.com Don’t forget TBC and BANDWITHNONAME are still tour across the UK. Here’s where they are: Tonight – Letchworth andy.boxall@lcfelim.org 01462 480126 20th Nov – Liverpool dave@frontline.org.uk 015-173-33373 25th Nov – Kingsbridge family.chesters@btinternet.com 01548 843241/ 856617 26th Nov – Southport griffiths-mark@btconnect.com 01704 500911 1st Dec - Southampton steve.ineedfreshair@ntlworld.com 07891 175313 2nd & 3rd Dec – Swindon and Chippenham 01793 855160 8th Dec – Barking marie.polley@fsmailnet 07815 520901 9th Dec - Dartford paulandlynandlaura@btopenworld.com 01322 662320/ 615758 10th Dec – Walsall andrew_morgan@ecotec.co.uk 07768 407958 18th Dec – Congleton jeff.cutts@nlchurch.org.uk 01260 297961/ 07789 035113 Have you taken a look at PAUL POULTON’s website? The singer/songwriter is a popular artist on the NCM discs and has been getting great reviews for his version of ‘Angels From The Realms Of Glory’. The song is from his new Christmas album ‘Grooves For Scrooge’ and is full of funky, cool Christmas songs and carols. Paul hails from Staffordshire and is constantly busy touring and ministering – he has a date pencilled in for Christmas 2006! He has a great sense of humour which comes across as he tells his testimony and touring adventures on his website. Why not take a look? www.paulpoulton.com NCM’s DAVID PHELPS is taking ‘that voice’ out on tour to celebrate Christmas. It is David’s 4th Christmas tour and he’ll be accompanied by NCM’s ERIN O’DONNELL, ANTHONY EVANS and comedian DARREN STREBLOW. The 12 date tour kicks off in Columbia, Tn on 1st December. Which NCM artist’s song would you probably have heard on a cruise? LEE WHITAKER, has been penning and performing songs for many years and way back he co-wrote a song called ‘Spirit’ that became the theme tune on the Cruise International company! Lee released his first album ‘Songs From The Hourglass’ this year and spent the summer promoting it across Europe. His song ‘Prepare The Way’ is on NCM26. www.leewhitaker.com REBECCA ST JAMES has just released a book inspired by Godly women called ‘Sister Freaks’. It covers the life stories of some 60 inspirational women crusaders, missionaries and pioneers including JOAN OF ARC (LORRAINE) and KAREN WATSON (missionary killed in Iraq last year). The book is published by WARNER FAITH BOOKS. Are you a Christian artist / media person? Please could you help us by adding us as a link on your website? www.newchristianmusic.co.uk Thank you! If you are a DJ / Journalist and would like to receive the NCMdiscs, drop us a line… DENVER & MILE HIGH ORCHESTRA are overjoyed to have released their first DVD, ‘Live At Long Hollow’. This live concert is jam-packed with new material and the band’s popular songs. It also has lots of special features too! You can only order it from the band’s website until February, www.denvermho.com Watch out for Denver next month on NCM27! REBECCA ST JAMES made her NCM debut this month and went straight in at number 2 in NCM Euro chart. ‘Alive’ is taken from Rebecca’s new album ‘If I Had One Chance To Tell You Something’. Rebecca is EMI’s top selling artist in Europe. The much anticipated new studio album from Grammy and Dove Award winner holds the promise of giving radio, listeners, and retail much to be thankful for. The album, the first completely new studio project from St. James in four years, blends a marked return to her rock origins with an epic overlay of pop and self written material that lends itself to painting her most revealing musical self portrait to date. Promotional plans for the album include a European tour in May 06. Please pray for former BURLAP CASHMERE member JOHNNY PHILIPPIDIS who is in a medically induced coma following an assault yesterday. Johnny 27 was involved in a minor collision in his car while driving home from the recording studio in Manhattan. Although the damage to the car was not serious, the other driver became very aggressive and savagely beat Johnny before driving away. Johnny was found by a member of the public with a broken jaw, eye socket and nose. ‘He had been left for dead’, said Johnny’s stepfather. Because of risk of the brain swelling, Johnny has since been put into a coma to rest his brain. The police have arrested a man in connection with the attack - amazingly a police officer heard the description of the car and recognised it as one he had ticketed earlier that day and so had the address of the owner. In 2003, Johnny was honourably discharged from the army following service in Iraq; he went on to perform in front of the Pope with his band. Did you know GEORGE HAMILTON IV, isn’t really the 4th George Hamilton? The line of Georges ended at his granddad called WILL, but despite missing a generation, there is now a V and VI George Hamilton! Last February a special gathering of Christian musicians and singers went to ABBEY ROAD studios to raise money for tsunami victims in India. The resulting single raised over £30,000 for the fishing village of Thantri. Inspired by the sound that the multicultural group produced, KINGSWAY COMMUNICATIONS have launched a new record label called ‘One Voice’ which will be an outlet for worship that represents every tongue, tribe and nation. EMI Christian Music Group's CLINTON LOCK writes, "By now I am sure you are all aware of the DISNEY movie adaptation of C.S.LEWIS' beloved book 'THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE' which is premiering at the ROYAL ALBERT HALL on 7th December, and on general release from the 8th December. This is by far the most adventurous undertaking Disney have done in the last few years, and is likely to be the no.1 blockbuster for Christmas. EMI Christian Music Group are working in partnership with Disney and as a result are releasing 'Inspired by the Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe' soundtrack in Europe this month. Artists on this project include STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN, JARS OF CLAY, REBECCA ST. JAMES, TOBYMAC, DELIRIOUS?, DAVID CROWDER BAND, BETHANY DILLON, JEREMY CAMP and more.!” Watch out for STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN’s track on NCM#27! And Finally… There was a painter by the name of Jock, who was interested in making a penny where he could, so he often would thin his paint to make it go further. As it happened, he got away with this for some time. The local Church decided to do a big restoration job that involved the painting of the outside of the large building. Jock put in a bid, and because his price was so low, he got the job. He went about erecting the trestles, setting up the planks, and buying the paint and, yes, thinning it down with the turpentine. Jock was up on the scaffolding, painting away with the job nearly completed, when suddenly there was a horrendous clap of thunder, and the sky opened. The torrential rain washed the thinned paint off the church and knocked Jock off the scaffold and on to the lawn, among the gravestones, surrounded by telltale puddles of the thinned and useless paint. Jock was no fool. He knew this was a judgment from the Almighty, so he got on his knees and cried: "Oh, Lord! Forgive me! What should I do?" And from the thunder, a mighty voice spoke...“Repaint! And thin no more! NCM NEWS 113 11 NOVEMBER 2005 Congratulations to THE AFTERS who have won the MTVU AWARD for best ‘Streaming Video’. They were up against ALICIA KEYS, MATISYAHU, AESOP ROCK, MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE and HAWTHORNE HEIGHTS but came out on top after the votes were counted. The video was for their song ‘Beautiful Love’. Over 700 colleges are linked with MTVU, which is a 6.5 million audience. THE AFTERS have recently come home from touring with REBECCA ST JAMES and JEREMY CAMP; and were delighted to find themselves nominated for 4 MtvU awards. www.theafters.com Staying with the MTVU AWARDS, MEWITHOUTYOU also left the ceremony with a gong. They won the award for ‘Left Field (most original artist) MTVU Woodie Award’ beating off SAUL WILLIAMS, MATISYAHU, ARCADE FIRE and MIA! The award is for the artist who has made a big splash despite audiences ‘having no idea what section of the record store to look for them in’! The band released their first album ‘Catch For Us The Foxes’ in October 2004. Well done guys! www.mewithoutyou.com BRYAN DUNCAN, RACHAEL LAMPA, HEATHER POWERS, JONTEZ GEOFF MOOREAND MARTHA MUNIZZI are all part of the ‘Joy To The World Christmas Celebration’ tour. The tour which begins on 1st December will be in the style of a Christmas presentation rather than a concert, to tell the story of Christmas. The audience are invited to sing along with the familiar Christmas songs and hear Bible passages. In the pipeline for the future is a similar tour for Easter and a TIMELIFE CD of both events. For more information go to www.joytotheworldtour.com Christian kids are lucky this month as three books specifically for them are being released! KIRK FRANKLIN has been writing a book called ‘How Do Alligators Praise The Lord?’. STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN’s wife MARY BETH is releasing her second book ‘Shaoey & Dot : The Christmas Miracle’, as a follow up to her earlier book ‘Shaoey & Dot : Bug Meets Bundle’. Shaoey is the nickname of Steve and Mary Beth’s first adopted daughter SHAOHANNAH, who also guests on Steven’s Christmas album reading the nativity story. MISS PATTY CAKE is also launching a book which encourages kids to play instruments in praise. The book comes with four instruments, slide whistle, hand-clapper, kazoo and a harmonica! The book is called ‘Miss Patty Cake Praise Parade. LEON PATILLO (former SANTANA vocalist) and wife RENEE very nearly faced tragedy on Monday. They were driving in their 36’RV in California when the vehicle exploded! First of all there was an explosion which sent flames out of the front grill, before seconds later the whole of the front of the car exploded. Unfortunately the locking systems of the car were in the bonnet and the door jammed shut. Rene was able to kick her door open but Leon had no choice but to smash his window and climb out as flames engulfed the driving compartment. To make matters worse, they had several bottles of propane gas on board! This exploded leaving just scraps of the van on the road. Leon’s keyboards, merchandise, money and luggage from the tour were destroyed but amazingly the couple escaped with only cuts and smoke inhalation. Renee says, “We are still in a little state of shock but God is giving us peace.” Time is of the essence if you want to book JERRY ARHELGER for a concert in the UK. Here’s where he’ll be. T 17 November Cricklewood (Country/John Allam), 8pm Trades Hall (London Country & Irish/Charity), London NW22DP F 18 Available for booking S 19 Oxford (Country/ Cosy Dixon) S 20 Leighton Buzzard (Gospel / Paul Davis), 6pm, Leighton Christian Fellowship, Vandyke School M 21 Yorkshire (Gospel/ Gordon Smith) T 22 Scunthorpe (Gospel/ Gordon Smith), Women Aglow Meeting W 23 Yorkshire (Gospel/ Gordon Smith) T 24 Yorkshire (Gospel/ Gordon Smith) F 25 Northampton (Country/ Cosy Dixon) S 26 Wellingborough (Country/ Cosy Dixon) S 27 Available for booking M 28 Available for booking T 29 Available for booking W 30 Cambridge (Country/ Cosy Dixon) T 1 December Available for booking F 2 Merseyside (Gospel/ Janis English) S 3 Wallasey (Gospel/ Janis English), Oasis Church, Wallasey S 4 Merseyside (Gospel/ Janis English) Get in touch if you can offer Jerry a date at: Paul Davis enq@newmusicenterprises.co.uk or Cosy Dixon brendacozy@hotmail.com JOSIAH HEFLIN has produced almost 50 albums for Christian artists in India and has finally got round to recording his second album. The album called ‘New Land’ is sung in English with the exception of ‘Mahima’ which is sung in Hindi. He is affectionately known as HEFFY and is now based in Italy. His song ‘Here We Are’ was featured on the ‘WOW-India’ CD released in 2003. Check out his website at www.josiahheflin.com Congratulations to JOHN DAVID WEBSTER and his wife KIRSTEN who have just had their third child. ARIA HOPE is the couple’s first daughter and sister to ZION and JADEN. She weighed a healthy 10lb 9oz. John released his first album ‘Made To Shine’ in March. www.johndavidwebster.com New Christian songstress ANA LAURA wowed the crowd at the MBNA 500 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Race, where she sang the National Anthem. The speedway race was shown on TV to an audience of 10 million! Ana had a film crew following her as she went from pit to pit talking to and praying with various racer and their teams. She is signed with REUNION RECORDS. www.analauramusic.com Staying with ANA LAURA, she joined NCM’s REBECCA ST JAMES and POINT OF GRACE at the ‘GIRL’S OF GRACE’ conferences across the US. The conferences are closely linked with Point Of Grace and grew out of their popularity with young teenage girls. As well as top musicians, top speakers come to the event which centres on being the best you can, inside and out. Topics covered include shopping, fashion, make-up, sex, dating and salvation. www.girlsofgrace.com From the USA, SUSIE LUCHSINGER writes, "It's beautiful fall weather here in Oklahoma and the trees are spectacular!! We're 80 degrees today with a 25 mph wind out of the southwest. I am "home alone" and enjoying the freedom for a short while. I've been recuperating from some chest/throat thing I've battled for a week and a half - would appreciate your prayers. We go to Pennsylvania, Branson, Nashville, Kentucky, and Oklahoma and are home again on the 14th. It's a mixture of flying and driving concerts/award show/ women's conference/cowboy church. A lot of variety and we love it!!! www.susieluchsinger.com Thanks so much for your prayers and support." HILLSONGS worship leader REUBEN MORGAN, is coming to Europe to put on a number of Worship Nights, here’s where he’ll be: Nov. 11: Norwich, United Kingdom Nov. 12-13: London, United Kingdom Nov. 15: Wales Nov. 17: Alesund, Norway Nov. 18-19: Oslo, Norway Nov. 20: Stockholm, Sweden Nov. 22: Celle, Germany All dates subject to change. For more information visit www.rocketownrecords.com. Which NCM artist’s TV show is one of the top rated programmes in the US? AMY GRANT’s ‘Three Wishes’ programme was among other top US programmes that were commended for being family friendly by the PARENTS TELEVSION COUNCIL. The show sees Amy and her team granting lifelong wishes to members of the public. http://www.nbc.com/Three_Wishes/ Are you going to see the ROBBIE SEAY BAND in concert? Well they are offering fans the chance to choose their set list for the final show in Kansas City! Go to their website to chose your favourite songs, the top 7 will be played. www.robbieseayband.com From the USA songwriter-publisher, WALTER HAMMOND writes, "On behalf of KEN BYFORD and myself, I want to thank NCM for the professional manner in which you present your NCM Compilation Discs to radio stations. After listening to NCM #26, I am very impressed by the way you structure the placement and sequence of songs on the disc which results in a highly positive presentation to radio stations. This obviously helps all of the artists that are on the disc. You and your staff are real pros at what you do as it is not an easy task to sequence a number of songs of a variety of styles on a compilation disc. I also like the detailed reaction sheets. I am looking forward to what the Lord will use NCM to do regarding "Beneath The Talmadge Bridge". Staying with KEN BYFORD, congratulations to him for receiving the award for "Video Of The Year" with "Beneath The Talmadge Bridge". The Alabama Country & Gospel Music Assn awarded Ken with the honour on October 29, 2005. In addition the video has now been in rotation on Great American Country "GAC's" "Positively GAC" broadcast for a year. Listen out for the song on this month’s NCMdisc! TERRI & BARRY COLLECUTT have gone into the NCM Euro Chart at number 6 this week with their song ‘You Are God’. The husband and wife team have been involved in music ministry for over 15 years. They have been lead worshippers in small and medium sized churches as well as serving faithfully in the music team of a large church. Their desire is to see people experience the power and presence of God through worshiping Him. Having lived in Sydney, Australia they are now based in Tauranga, New Zealand. Why not check out their website at www.btcmin.com The Faith Folk and Fairtrade Tour is on the road. Here’s where you can find ROB HALLIGAN: 17th Nov - St Johns Hall - Chichester (fair-trade) 18th Nov - St Matthews Hall - Worthing (Fairtrade) 19th Nov - The Market Square - Burgess Hill (Fairtrade) 20th Nov - Sheddingdean Church Hall - Burgess Hill (Fairtrade) 25th Nov - Binley Woods Village Hall -Coventry (Fairtrade) 30th November - Portadown, Northern Ireland (Fairtrade) 1st Dec - Common Grounds cafe - Belfast, (Fairtrade) 2nd Dec - St Comgalls - Bangor (Fairtrade) 3rd Dec - Washbasin - Ahoghill, (Fairtrade) 4th Dec - High Kirk Church Hall - Ballymena (Fairtrade) 13th Dec - The Western Front – Brighton www.robhalligan.co.uk Which two NCM songstresses sung together live for the first time at the INSPIRATIONAL COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS? WYNONNA and NATALIE GRANT. Their song ‘Bring It All Together’ is on Natalie’s new CD ‘awaken’. SUPERHERO tour dates: Friday 18th November - Peterborough 07821435426 / amybobs1@hotmail.co.uk Saturday 19th November - Torquay 01803 400403 / malc@uvyouth.org.uk Sunday 20th November - Hatfield Venue 01707 285024 Saturday 26th November - Sutton Coldfield 0121 3555088 Friday 2nd December - Cardiff 02920 20512247 Saturday 3rd December - Merthyr Tydfil 01685 388788 / 37453 Did you know...? RANDY TRAVIS’s new album ‘Precious Memories will feature his version of DARLENE ZSCHECH’s ‘Shout To The Lord’ and TIM HUGHES’ ‘Here I Am To Worship… Last night the Inspirational Country Music Awards Show took place in RYMAN AUDITORIUM in Nashville. Unfortunately we haven’t been able to find out who won before putting out this edition of the news because of the time difference! The awards show was hosted by LINDA DAVIS and LISA RYAN (from 700 club). Many familiar NCM names were among the nominees including CLINT MILLER (Pioneer Award), SAWYER BROWN, TIM MCGRAW, SUSIE LUCHSINGER and RANDY TRAVIS. Here’s a list of the nominees for some of the categories – we’ll give you their winners next week!: Male Vocalist - Clifton Jansky, Del Way, Mike Hammock, Mike Manuel, Randy Gunn, Tommy Brandt Female Vocalist - Jeanie Kay Truesdale, Joyce Wagster, Lori Willcuts, Melanie Walker, Susie Luchsinger Song of the Year - Angels , Randy Travis, Gotta Come From The Heart , Clifton Jansky, If That Ain’t Love , Fox Brothers, Live Like You Were Dying, Tim McGraw, That’s What I Love About Sunday , Craig Morgan Mainstream Country Artist - Craig Morgan, Josh Turner, Oak Ridge Boys, Sawyer Brown, Tim McGraw Pioneer Award - Clint Miller, Dennis Agajanian, Ken Holloway, Marty Raybon, Mike Manuel And Finally… You Might be a Preacher if.... ·You've ever dreamed you were preaching only to awaken and discover you really were. ·You've ever wondered why people couldn't die at more appropriate times. ·You're leading the church into the 21st century, but you don't know what you're preaching on Sunday. ·You've ever spoken for free and were worth every penny. ·You wonder why the tax seminar leader didn't open with prayer. ·Instead of getting "ticked off," you get "grieved in your spirit." ·You've ever been tempted to take an offering at a family reunion. ·You'd rather talk to people with every head bowed and every eye closed. ·You ever talked to a person who was sitting on a bedpan. ·You find yourself counting people at a sports event. ·Everybody stops talking when you enter the room. ·You've ever had an anxiety attack while playing Bible Trivia Pursuit. ·You wonder why people who have some time to kill want to spend it with you. ·You get your second wind when you say "And in conclusion..." Does any or all this seem very familiar to you? NCM News 112 4th November 2005 Top foursome AVALON are back this week with their new release, ‘Love Won’t Leave You’. The quartet have notched up an impressive 2 GRAMMY AWARDS and 20 DOVE AWARD nominations and 3 awards. www.avalonlive.com NCM’s BETHANY DILLON donned her best frock to tread the red carpet last week. She was at the Hollywood premier of the new DREAMWORKS movie ‘Dreamer : Inspired By A True Story.’ Bethany sang the song which runs during the closing credits of the movie. KRIS KRISTOFFERSON, KURT RUSSELL and DAKOTA FANNING all star in the film about an injured race horse. It is not the only movie based project that Bethany is involved in. She is just one to the dozen or so artists singing on the ‘Music Inspired By : Chronicles Of Narnia : The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’, which hits cinemas on December 10th in the UK. www.bethanydillon.com Performing at AGMF 06 in Toowoomba (Australia) next Easter is NCM’s DARLENE ZSCHECH. The well-known singer and songwriter from HILLSONG (the fastest growing church in Australia) will be part of the team leading the praise and worship. Zschech has sold more than six million CDs. Each week, an estimated 25 to 30 million churchgoers worldwide sing her song ‘Shout to the Lord’. Staying with AGMF, renowned Irish worship leader ROBIN MARK will also be taking part. Best known for the songs ‘Days of Elijah’ and ‘There Is No Other’, his debut album ‘Revival in Belfast’ is fast approaching gold status (sales of 35 000 units) in Australia making him one of the best selling Christian artists in the country. AGMF Event Director ISAAC MOODY says Darlene and Robin have made their marks on the church internationally inspiring several generations with their music. Darlene Zschech and Robin Mark join 3 other NCM artistes NEWSBOYS, SUPERCHIC[K] and the Grammy® award winning Australian singer-songwriter REBECCA ST JAMES to perform at AGMF 06 (14-16 April), the country’s number one event for youth, kids, and families. www.agmf.com.au Wouldn’t it be nice to get a Christmas card from STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN? Well he is offering a free e-card which can be personalised by the sender with messages and photos. The card also features snippets of Steven’s new album ‘All I Really Want For Christmas’. For more information click over to StevenCurtisChapman.com/Ecard REUBEN MORGAN, one of the HILLSONGS Worship Leaders, is coming to Europe to put on a number of Worship Nights. Currently scheduled stops on the Fall European run include: Nov. 1: Lincoln, United Kingdom Nov. 3: Allgäu, Germany Nov. 4: Bad Gandersheim, Germany Nov. 5: London, United Kingdom Nov. 6: Bradford, United Kingdom Nov. 7: Norwich, United Kingdom Nov. 8: Sheffield, United Kingdom Nov. 10: Swansea, Wales Nov. 11: Norwich, United Kingdom Nov. 12-13: London, United Kingdom Nov. 15: Wales Nov. 17: Alesund, Norway Nov. 18-19: Oslo, Norway Nov. 20: Stockholm, Sweden Nov. 22: Celle, Germany (All dates subject to change) For more information visit www.rocketownrecords.com and www.worldthroughyoureyes.com From MINDY SCHWEIGER’s sister SHAWN, “Great news! Mindy is home! She was released from the rehab centre on Tuesday afternoon. She is currently living with our parent's, and will probably have to for quite some time… Everything in her life has changed, and it's going to take time for her to adjust. Please continue to keep her in your prayers. She needs them more now than ever.” Staying with MINDY SCHWEIGER, the cookbook that has been organised by her friends and family to raise medical funds should be out by Thanksgiving. It will be available for sale on Mindy's website. In addition, her new CD is almost ready for release. She has to approve the final cut, but it should be available for purchase soon. It's an incredible CD, which should be a huge hit. It will also be available for purchase online when it is ready. www.mindyschweiger.com The departure from the Christian music scene of one of its best loved bands is fast approaching. PETRA is retiring with their last recording aptly named ‘Petra-Farewell’. It is a live album recorded with guest appearances from former band members GREG X VOLZ and JOHN LAWRY. Thirty three years after they began with their first album, the cover of the band’s final album poignantly shows the guys bowing, as if to say 'goodbye'... sniff! www.petraband.com SYMPHONY IN PERIL are calling it a day. The band have been together for 4 years and the decision to disband was mutual. It was reported that singer BRYAN WILSON was injured on the 26th October in a hit-and-run accident in Columbia, SC. He was in a car with a friend on the way to pick up his jeep from the garage when they were hit by a speeding car. The driver of the other car sped away and has not been found. Bryan and BRANDIS FRANCIS were both taken to hospital and underwent tests. Their injuries are not thought to be life-threatening. Bryan’s big hit was ‘His Eye Is On Sparrow’ along with the MISSISSIPPI CHILDREN’S CHOIR in 1994, and his latest recording was ‘Still, My Father’ on the ‘Uncloudy Days’ compilation. Please keep Bryan and Brandis in your prayers. MICHAEL J. RAMPLIN & MARTIN DAWSON (& ADELE on violin) are planning a "Country Gospel" concert tour of the UK for possibly next Feb & March, 2006. Anyone interested can contact Michael at michael.ramplin@cwctv.net ALLISON CARPENTER (DJ for Radio 2CCC 96.3FM in Australia) writes, "NCM#25 is a great mixture, track 15 (ASHLEY CLEVELAND/STEVE WINWOOD) is great for secular as it is a well known mainstream artist. Great mix of style from country, gospel, narration (PAT BOONE) to lyrics in many songs that everyday people relate to their life and it, of course, honours our Lord Jesus Christ, with lyrics directly relating to worship and salvation Amen." Thanks Allison. Coming soon for radio stations… New Christian Music Radio online Teen band JUMP5 are set to record an album of familiar songs called ‘Shining Star’. Out just in time for the kid’s Christmas stocking, the album features well know songs including, ‘Beauty And The Beast’, ‘Walking On Sunshine’ and ‘We Are Family’. www.jump5.com JAMES TWEED tells NCM that he's been in correspondence with BARRY MCGUIRE recently. Barry is now living in New Zealand and was 70 last weekend. How time flies! NCM’s PAUL DAVIS was executive producer of Barry McGuire's 'Eve of Destruction' CD compilation for WORD/AUTHENTIC a few years ago. Here’s a great opportunity for singers, LEON LOCKER (CHAPTERS TV) says, "Chapters is a new Television and Video on demand platform about to launch in the UK. The main customer focus of the platform is Christian, family, ethnic and business viewers. The platform covers a lot of genres from news, business, entertainment, fashion, music, youth, children etc. It is a big attempt to deliver family and Christian oriented programmes to subscribers in an on-demand way. We are seeking suitable Music video content for the platform aired for free in the next six months which we hope will help promote your work as well as increase awareness of great independent artists and labels who are not currently known worldwide. You can also send audio material for Chapters radio broadcast, with authorization for rights to broadcast. We will be willing to discuss any arrangements or proposals for acquisition of any other content that you may have that will benefit the Christian and family community in London." leon20@tiscali.co.uk CLINT MILLER is planning a biographical book to start in March 2006. But before then he will be at the CCMA Awards on November 10th as he is up for two awards - 'Living Legend' and 'Pioneer'. It will be broadcast live on GAC. www.clintmiller.com Worship leader and songwriter TIM HUGHES writes, "For those who don't know Rach and I have left SOUL SURVIVOR -Watford to join HOLY TRINITY BROMPTON in London. It's with sadness that we leave as Soul Survivor has been a very special place for us. We are however very excited about the adventure ahead." CLINTON LOCK informs of interview possibilities available with LAST TUESDAY, a new recruit of Mono Vs Stereo label. The melodic punk outfit, Last Tuesday, from Harrisburg, PA, has gained a reputation as a great live band. With the release of ‘Resolve’, the band has the musical tool necessary to accomplish their goal. The album was produced by the tag team efforts of MATTHEW THIESSEN (lead singer of RELIENT K) and JOE MARLETT (BLINK 182, FOO FIGHTERS) and showcases a mature, positive, and edgy modern punk sound for today's youth. They are in the UK during November. Here’s where to find them: Nov 10 Stoke On Trent, At The Glebe Nov 11 Ayr Scotland, At Under The Couch Nov 12 Bathgate, Scotland, At The Raven Nov 13 Leeds England, At The Vine Nov 15 Swindon, England Nov 16 Liverpool, England, At Club Hevn N Hell For more information go to www.lasttuesday.com for interview information email clock@kingsway.co.uk LUCY PACULABO MHONDERA writes, "This summer SOUL SURVIVOR saw 23k young people gathered together to worship God. The festival was buzzing and it was great to see the main marquee packed out with youth sold out for God. Over the course of the two weeks Soul Survivor launched SOUL ACTION, a charity through which they want to express God’s heart for the last, the least and the lost. Soul Survivor also held their first MOMENTUM FESTIVAL for students, which was a great success. This ran alongside the five day worship event PASSION FOR YOUR NAME, led by TIM & RACHAEL HUGHES. The ‘We Must Go’ CD is from Soul Survivor 2005. This recording includes Tim Hughes, DELIRIOUS?, HILLSONG UNITED, LEX BUCKLEY and MARK BESWICK. 'We Must Go' captures the highlights from the summer and includes a bonus CD featuring 5 tracks of worship from Momentum. This includes worship led by JOHNNY PARKS, MARTYN LAYZELL and BEN CANTELON thus making this an essential memento of the summer of 2005. GOD TV were also there to capture the highlights of the festival and will be producing 30 1 hour shows bringing teaching, ministry and worship, as well as exclusive interviews with speakers, bands and authors. SUPERHERO tour dates: Friday 18th November - Peterborough 07821435426 / amybobs1@hotmail.co.uk Saturday 19th November - Torquay 01803 400403 / malc@uvyouth.org.uk Sunday 20th November - Hatfield Venue 01707 285024 Saturday 26th November - Sutton Coldfield 0121 3555088 Friday 2nd December - Cardiff 02920 20512247 Saturday 3rd December - Merthyr Tydfil 01685 388788 / 374534 The NCM team were on holiday in partially sunny Devon, enjoying the ministry of STEVE HUGHES. Steve is a singer/songwriter from New Jersey and is a pastor in Northern Ireland. Despite being laid up in bed most of the time poorly, each night he entertained and ministered to the holidaymakers alongside his wife CONNIE. Steve is currently taking part in his first song contest on the christianbands.co.uk website. His song ‘Rushing Wind’ has become his sort of anthem over the years, and was very popular on the NCM disc in 2003. Why not add your vote today? www.christianbands.co.uk This week the first of this year’s Christmas NCMdiscs went out. Demand was so high for Christmas songs that we had to make November a Christmas disc too! One of the songs on this months CD is ‘You Move Me’ from Glo. So what was the inspiration behind the song? Well Phil says it’s, “A love song to Jesus expressing how even in the midst of the world's many distractions and concerns, when I close my eyes and focus on the person of Christ, I could be anywhere and yet still be moved by his powerful presence. I imagine myself singing this in the middle of a bustling shopping centre!” GEORGE HAMILTON IV is on the final leg of his UK tour with the following dates, 4-6 Country: Ayr, Scotland 7-8 Country: Kent (Ed Pearson 01474 567971 / 07745 144314) For more information email enq@newmusicenterprises.com Thank you so much for the feedback on the New Look NCM News and Charts. We have had no end of trouble trying to sort things out so that everyone can open the documents and not read a jumbled mess! Please bear with us! JUDY SEALE is trying to book some of the finest talent from America into Europe next year. You can contact her direct at jsrefugee@aol.com if you're interested. The list is quite mouth-watering! Here's a small selection for you of artists and available dates but Jude will be happy to give you more information. MARTY STUART: between June 26 and July 6th; GLEN CAMPBELL: before and after July 30th. Popular singer/songwriter JIM BAILEY is shedding his children’s ministry for a brief moment to release a new worship album for adults. It is an acoustic worship album which harks back to his days before his children’s ministry began. Remember RUN DMC? Well rapper REV RUN (aka Joseph Simmons) has gone on to become a minister and is releasing his first Christian recording. At the moment he is enjoying a top 5 hit with pop band LIBERTY X with ‘Song For Lovers’. The new album ‘Distortion’ features samples from LYNYRD SKYNYRD’s ‘Sweet Home Alabama’. In 2002, after several years at the top of the charts, Run DMC split after band member JAY MIZELL was murdered. So how did God intervene in Joseph’s rap-star life? Joseph says, “I was trying to grab hold of life and its changes... You’re grabbing this vine and that vine, you’re trying to learn your new life. So what’s the goal? Everybody’s looking for how to be happy, and that’s what I was doing. I was looking for the next move, and it ended up being Reverend Run. And now I’m happy.” The much anticipated album ‘Life Is Precious : A WES KING Tribute’ is nearly ready. Despite problems with some artists and record labels, many artists including KIM HILL and PHIL KEAGGY have recorded Wes’s songs for the album. Wes has just finished his latest round on chemotherapy to battle lymphoma, and is doing well. The latest update on his condition says that he is still recovering but each day a bit more of the old Wes is emerging. Praise God. Please continue to keep him in your prayers. www.wesking.com Congratulations to the winners of THE SOUTHERN GOSPEL MUSIC AWARDS. Here’s a brief round up of some of those successful on the night: Person of the Year – Connie Hopper Female Vocalist – Kim Hopper Female Soloist – Lauren Talley Male Vocalist – Guy Penrod Male Soloist – Michael Combs Songwriter of the Year – Kenna West Favourite MC – Bill Gaither Favourite Band – Isaacs Song Of The Year – His Life For Mine (Talley Trio) Sad news from the US, as it is reported that 90’s megastar M.C HAMMER will have to sell his publishing assets. MC Hammer (STANLEY BURRELL) is now an occasional preacher and singer, and was first declared bankrupt in 1996. His albums and singles topped the charts on both sides of the Atlantic and he is credited as bringing rap/hip-hop to the masses, with his hits, ‘U Can’t Touch This’, ‘Pray’ and ‘Have You Seen Her?’. His albums went multi-platinum and are still generating money today, so the courts are asking for a percentage of the interest earned by the songs. The dispute has been ongoing due to publishing wrangles. CHRIS MERCER writes, "Just back from Romania concert- speaking tour... shattered after flights cancelled in Milan. Overnighter in Italian 5 star with no money or credit cards but God provided... Preaching went great - 6 saved first time I spoke and 3 then next time and 2 folk in gypsy church saved...awesome... God told me to give all my money to a Romanian man and his family. When I did, he told me he had been praying to the Father and He promised to put bread on the table each day and for last 3 days no bread. My friend is my contact there and has a wife and 10 day old baby and boy of 7. Then he received my gift - equivalent of one month's wage (this being £60 UK pounds, all I had left) - and he could buy some meat. He thanks God. I have come home humbled and broken with what I have seen and experienced of these beautiful Christians who give of all they have to the poor. They told me my singing and speaking blessed them. I am, privileged indeed!" www.chrismercer.net The world famous AFRICAN CHILDREN’S CHOIR have just finished recording a song alongside the GAITHER VOCAL BAND. They had been asked to sing the backing on the song ‘Love Can Turn The World’ for the Vocal Band’s new album. After a long absence, JERRY ARHELGER (Nashville, Tennessee) is coming back to the UK for a short visit. Are you interested in booking him? I realise that time is very short but it is a grand opportunity. T 17-18 NOV 05 Available S 19 Oxford (Country/ Cosy Dixon) S 20 Leighton Buzzard (Gospel / Paul Davis) M 21- 24 Available F 25 Northampton (Country/ Cosy Dixon) S 26 Wellingborough (Country/ Cosy Dixon) S 27-29 Available W 30 Cambridge (Country/ Cosy Dixon) T 1-4 DEC Available Contacts: Paul Davis( enq@newmusicenterprises.co.uk ) 01525 237700 & Cosy Dixon ( brendacozy@hotmail.com ) 1604 4689 44 & 079 4005 1690 And Finally… Little Bobby: Mom, why was nothing said about the other people that Jesus raised from the dead together with Lazarus? Mom: Oh dear, now where did you learn that there were other people? It was only Lazarus. Little Bobby: But mom, every time I read that verse I cannot help but assume that there were at least four people. Mom: Now why would you assume something like that? Little Bobby: 'Cause Lazarus came fourth! NCM NEWS 111 OCTOBER 2005 Movie goers in central Scotland will have a new choice of venue to go see a first run movie this weekend. Calvary Christian Fellowship in Motherwell is participating in the Church Theatrical Release for ‘Left Behind: World at War’ which will hit the big screen but only in churches - not theatres. The film is about those who are left behind after the rapture. More than 3,200 churches and ministries across the world have signed up to participate making this the widest opening of the weekend. “I think with all of the natural disasters of late, many people are wondering about the prophecies of the Bible. A film like this gives even the slightly curious a chance to peek into the future…There is no doubt this is great entertainment but what makes it different is that it something we all sense is coming,” says Lalonde. “Calvary Christian Fellowship in Motherwell gets that and is opening its doors to welcome in people to catch that glimpse into the future.” Admission is free so grab your popcorn and go along: Showtimes at Calvary are Friday 21st October at 7.30pm, Saturday 22nd at 7.30pm and Sunday 23rd at 6.00pm For more information about this specific showing, call 01698 254848 or visit our website at www.calvarymotherwell.org For more information on the movie visit www.leftbehind-worldatwar.com Which NCM artists can be hung on your Christmas tree this year…? AMY GRANT and POINT OF GRACE are taking part in a project to raise funds for ALIVE HOSPICE in Tennessee, by designing their own limited edition Christmas ornaments. The ornaments are sold for $10, with note-lets also available for $8. All proceeds go towards to hospice. The project has been going for the last 30 years, and others taking part include KENNY CHESNEY (husband of RENEE ZELWEIGER), LEANN RIMES, PEYTON MANNING and GOVERNER BREDESEN. To take a look at the items and to order go to www.alivehospice.org FRED LEONARD writes from the USA, "Just a line to say hello to all of you and to tell NCM that your new marketing idea for NCM is most attractive and I am sure it is going to generate much deserved interest! I will be sure to use your services in the future. A long time record producer and friend of mine, MR. SHAD O' SHEA, the owner of FRATERNITY RECORDS, the largest most respected Independent Record Label here in the United States is coming out with his 50th year celebration compilation CD in early 2006! My song that NCM put out about a year ago entitled "Eye To Eye" that eventually made # 15 on the EMCA Charts in Europe about August 2004 will be on this classic CD at the number 3 slot here in America! It is my hope of course that we will enjoy similar success here in the States that NCM has had... ..we wish continued success to everyone at NCM!" www.FredLeonard.com NCM artist, BOBBY SMITH from Florida is announcing a free download on his website for anyone that might want to renew wedding vows -'This Husband Loves His Wife' by Bobby was penned by Wes Davis. www.gmirecordsinternational.com Singer-songwriter-musician, STEWART SMITH (from the USA) and his wife Sarah (from the UK) are missionaries with OPERATION MOBILISATION. Stewart's song 'Citizen of Heaven' coming on NCM27 is, he says, a tribute to the testimony of JONI ERICKSON TADA stewart.smith@luke.om.org www.billdrake.com With a 'Hi from Tennessee', NCM's JERRY ARHELGER writes, "Thanks for all of the great NCM exposure and help. I praise the Lord for you and all that NCM does. I have been extremely busy and have just returned from Texas. Next week I go to Florida then to Minnesota. Thanks for all of the follow-up and response information. I hope to be able to follow-up with some tours. I should be in England 15 November-December 2. I praise the Lord for His miraculous healing and eternal grace. " Anyone interested in booking Jerry, please contact enq@newmusicenterprises.com. SALLY BLUNDELL informs us that ‘The Survivor Songbooks’ have become an important tool for worship leaders in the UK with new songs crossing from local church beginnings into national church settings. ‘Survivor Songs: This Side of Heaven’ CD is a collection of 20 tracks highlighting some of the songs included in the Survivor Songbook 3. The album includes songs from BRENTON BROWN, MATT REDMAN, TIM HUGHES, ONEHUNDREDHOURS, DAVID GATE, JOHNNY PARKS and more. For more information email music@survivor.co.uk From over in Tennessee comes this update from NCM’s friend ERNIE ASHWORTH, “Hi everyone…I have been spending time with BETTYE during her bout with lung cancer. A lot of you have kept in touch about how she was doing. Took her to the Dr a couple of weeks ago and…the scans did not show any signs of cancer in her body. This was sure great news to us and took a big load off our minds…our thanks to everyone for your prayers and there were many from all parts of the world and each one was appreciated. My thanks to all the DJ’s who play my recordings.” Staying with ERNIE ASHWORTH, he’s been shining up his shoes and dusting off his best jacket to receive two special awards. He writes, “RHONNIE SCHEUERMAN recommended me for the GOSPEL HALL OF FAME and a few days ago during the gospel award show. I was asked to come on stage and accept my Gospel Hall Of Fame induction. This I proudly did thank you Rhonnie for this great honour. Also I was invited to come to Iowa and accept my induction into the Traditional Country Music Hall Of Fame. And this I did and I thank ROBERT EVERHART for this great honour.” CHRIS MERCER and her PA, Jane, from ‘The Whispers Foundation’ fly out to Romania on 27th Oct for a 5 day Romanian Tour. Chris is the main speaker and artist at the Ladies Conference on the 29th and is scheduled to sing at a gypsy service in Romania as well as scheduled concerts. November UK Tour gigs….Friday 11th November 7.30pm Lugershall. Saturday 12th Amesbury Baptist 7.30pm. Sunday 13th Amesbury Baptist morning service. For further info chris@chrismercer.net While he’s hard at work supporting the release of his Christmas project and two new books, as well as preparing for a 21-city arena tour with MERCYME, STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN and his family have also travelled thousands of miles on another mission: to find forever homes for orphans all around the world. In just the past few months, on behalf of their adoption foundation SHAOHANNAH’S HOPE, the Chapmans travelled to China, Uganda, Africa and El Salvador. www.stevencurtischapman.com The NCM Team are away this next week so there will be no NCM News next week Well loved bands TBC and THEBANDWITHNONAME are touring the UK from the beginning of November until mid December. TBC, the four-piece girl band have done well in the NCM Euro charts this month with ‘When I Get To Heaven’ from their debut album ‘TBC’. The band are just about to release their first DVD called ‘When I Get To Heaven’ which includes 2 music videos, behind the scenes footage and a dance tuition video. Here’s where the bands are touring: Friday 4th Nov – Stockton-on-Tees barry.drinkel@theoakwood.org.uk Saturday 5th Nov – Leicester Martyn Ward, martynward@ntlworld.com Friday 11th November – Nantwich dropletpool@yahoo.co.uk Friday 18th November – Letchworth andy.boxall@lcfelim.org Sunday 20th November – Liverpool dave@frontline.org.uk Friday 25th November – Kingsbridge family.chesters@btinternet.com Saturday 26th November – Southport griffiths-mark@btconnect.com Thursday 1st December - Southampton steve.ineedfreshair@ntlworld.com Friday 2nd & Saturday 3rd December – Swindon and Chippenham Thursday 8th December – Barking marie.polley@fsmailnet Friday 9th December - Dartford paulandlynandlaura@btopenworld.com Saturday 10th December – Walsall andrew_morgan@ecotec.co.uk Sunday 18th December – Congleton jeff.cutts@nlchurch.org.uk SUSIE and DANIEL of NOTE FOR A CHILD are planning the new CD launch concert this Sat 15th October at Brickfields, Cheddars Lane, Cambridge CB5 8LD. Tickets on the door and turn out may be large so don't leave it much after 7.30 to arrive if you want to be sure of a seat!!! Christian rockers NEWSBOYS will headline at AGMF 06 in Toowoomba, Australia next Easter (14-16 April). With more than 15 years of heavy touring behind them, the band that started playing music in a Queensland garage in the late 80s, has developed to become one of the biggest bands. The five-piece band has earned six gold records in the US, plus four GRAMMY® nominations. Speaking from Nashville, Australian born lead singer PETER FURLER says, “We’re so excited and honoured to be playing at Australia’s premier festival. We have big expectations,” The group joins Nashville based SUPERCHIC[K] and Grammy® award winning Australian singer-songwriter REBECCA ST JAMES to perform at AGMF 06, the country’s number one event for youth, kids, and families from 14th – 16th April. www.agmf.com.au Watch out for Rebecca St James on NCM26 next month! NCM's KAREN LAFFERTY (MUSICIANS FOR MISSIONS) reports, "Recently, I was off to Brazil for a YWAM's University of the Nations workshop. There were about 1500 YWAMers from 80 nations attending. What glorious times of worship and teaching from our key YWAM leaders, like LOREN CUNNINGHAM. We had an Arts Festival running along side the workshop which kept the atmosphere very festive. A highlight for me was the College of the Arts meetings where we met so many talented artists and musicians from South America. We had exciting times of sharing about how God is using the arts for His glory around the world." www.MusiciansForMissions.com AMY GRANT’s album ‘Heart In Motion’ has been included in a list of the top 100 best selling albums of all time. The list compiled by RIAA said that the album sold 5,000,000 copies. It also featured the hit single ‘Baby Baby’. www.amygrant.com STEVE HUGHES’s beautiful song ‘Rushing Wind’ has been entered in a song writing competition. The list of entries on the christianbands.co.uk site has been whittled down to just 14 including ‘Rushing Wind’ which was in 2nd place last time at the time of writing. The song was featured on NCM5 back in February 2004 and reached the number 7 position twice in the NCM Chart. Steve hails from New Jersey, USA but is now a pastor of a church in Northern Ireland. He says, “After 31 years of writing songs, I finally decided to enter a song writing contest for the very first time.” The winner of the contest is decided by online public voting, so why not click away! www.christianbands.co.uk Staying with STEVE HUGHES, he says, “I'm halfway through recording ‘God Likes Kids’ - a Christian children's album of original stuff geared mostly toward kids 5-12 yrs old. A bit of a departure for me, something different, but it should be interesting. We hope to have it out by the end of November. In January I'm hoping to start recording again a new CD of mostly new songs. The tentative working title for that is "All of the Above". We'll try to keep you posted. Please pray about these projects.” Superhero TOUR DATES Friday 18th November - Peterborough 07821435426 / amybobs1@hotmail.co.uk Saturday 19th November - Torquay 01803 400403 / malc@uvyouth.org.uk Sunday 20th November - Hatfield Venue 01707 285024 Saturday 26th November - Sutton Coldfield 0121 3555088 Friday 2nd December - Cardiff 02920 20512247 Saturday 3rd December - Merthyr Tydfil 01685 388788 / 374534 Last week we mentioned USA acts who want to come to the UK. We can also add the name of PAUL OVERSTREET to that list. Paul has been in touch with Stuart Cameron to say that he is prepared to come over to Europe either with his band or even as an acoustic solo act, so if you would like to get in touch with one of the greatest songwriters - "When You Say Nothing At All", "Love Can Build A Bridge", "Forever & Ever, Amen", "On The Other Hand" and many others! - hook up with him at his website at www.pauloverstreet.com The Faith Folk and Fairtrade Tour is on the road. After a solo gig in Cambridge this week at CB2 Cafe Bistro the tour kicks in with Yorkshire and the North on the map. 20th Oct - CB2 Cafe Bistro - Cambridge 21st Oct - The Tithe Bar - North Allerton (Fairtrade) 22nd Oct - Strathmoor Church Hall - Rowlands Gill (Fairtrade) 26th Oct - Riverside - Perth (Fairtrade) 27th Oct - Dyce Church Hall - Dyce, (fairtrade) 28th Oct - Crown Terrace Aberdeen (Fairtrade) 29th Oct - Acoustic Cafe - Edinburgh (Fairtrade) 17th Nov - St Johns Hall - Chichester (Fairtrade) 18th Nov - St Matthews Hall - Worthing (Fairtrade) 19th Nov - The Market Square - Burgess Hill (Fairtrade) 20th Nov - Sheddingdean Church Hall - Burgess Hill (Fairtrade) 25th Nov - Binley Woods Village Hall -Coventry (Fairtrade) 30th November - Portadown, Northern Ireland (Fairtrade) 1st Dec - Common Grounds cafe - Belfast, (Fairtrade) 2nd Dec - St Comgalls - Bangor (Fairtrade) 3rd Dec - Washbasin - Ahoghill, (Fairtrade) 4th Dec - High Kirk Church Hall - Ballymena (Fairtrade) 13th Dec - The Western Front – Brighton For more information go to www.robhalligan.co.uk Thank you so much for the feedback on the New Look NCM News and Charts. We have had no end of trouble trying to sort things out so that everyone can open the documents and not read a jumbled mess! Please bear with us! UK tour - GEORGE HAMILTON IV starts next week: 28 Oct 05 Gospel: Ruthin, North Wales (Bob Park 01978 290297/ 07710 113957) 29 Country: Swaffam, Norfolk (Ed Pearson 01474 567971 / 07745 144314) 30 Country: Kent (Ed Pearson 01474 567971 / 07745 144314) 31 Gospel: Toddington, Beds (Keith Mersh 01525 877806) 1 Nov Gospel: Todmorden, Yorks (Alan Holdsworth 01924 489268) 2 Country: Kent (Ed Pearson 01474 567971 / 07745 144314) 3 Gospel: Penmanmawr, North Wales (Bob Searle 0845 2267027) 4-6 Country: Ayr, Scotland 7-8 Country: Kent (Ed Pearson 01474 567971 / 07745 144314) For more information contact enq@newmusicenterprises.com NCM’s MINDY SCHWEIGER is continuing to make progress after her accident. Her sister SHAWN writes, “Today she was introduced to a contraption called the “LitGait”, which is something similar to a baby’s walker, with wheels and a harness. With the aid of the “LitGait”, she was able to walk a complete circle around the 3rd floor…She is making phenomenal progress, thanks to God’s precious grace. Her muscles are getting stronger and she has regained about 95% of the mobility in her left hand, as well. She is able to do much more than the doctors ever thought possible. Our prayers are being answered daily! We are continuing to work on the cookbook to help raise funds for Mindy's medical bills. If you would like to contribute a recipe to the book, please send it, along with your name, city and state, to Mindyscookbook@aol.com. We need pork recipes, beef recipes, appetizers and side dishes more than anything right now. The deadline for sending in recipes is October 31…Pray for God to give her a complete recovery and to help her maintain her courage. She has a multitude of faith, and through all of this, never questions God. She is eager to sing and minister to the world once again, and tell of her many blessings.” www.mindyschweiger.com On October 8th in an outdoors ceremony just outside of Nashville, SAWYER BROWN guitarist SHAYNE HILL married the love of his life, KRISTIN GARTNER. Gathered together with close friends and family, the wedding party sang and danced all night with a stage full of gear and an open mic. Nothing short of expectations from the musical talent in attendance. Shayne and Kristin's week-long honeymoon was extended a little over as flight delays had the guitarist arriving late for bus-call for Sawyer Brown's Oct. 15th show in Ocoee, FL. Singer-songwriter Kristin is working on her next record and Shayne is currently on tour with two shows in Las Vegas at the Boulder Station Casino next week. Congratulations. Just out is the new Christmas album from NCM songstress Sandi Patty. Called ‘Yuletide Joy’, the album is Sandi’s second solo Christmas recording. It is jammed packed with familiar carols and Christmas numbers such as ‘O Holy Night’, ‘Jingle Bells’, ‘Go Tell It On The Mountain’ and ‘Have Yourself A Very Merry Christmas’. The lovely new song ‘Someday’ also features on the album, it is a touching lullaby from the perspective of Mary. The album hit the shelves on 28th September. Sandi will be going on a Christmas tour across the US starting from 12th December. www.sandipatty.com SCOTT WULLKOTTE is a singer-guitarist-songwriter from Phoenix, Arizona, USA. He says he's currently receiving airplay in Australia and NZ and other places. He'll have a new album coming out soon. www.azomb.com PATTI PAGE writes, "On Sunday, November 6th at 5:00 p.m., I'll be performing a benefit concert at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido. All proceeds from this wonderful event will go towards the Building Fund for the Faith Community Church By The Sea (www.faithcommunity.ws) Our church has recently purchased close to 8 acres of land, and we look forward to constructing this place of worship and community. If you are in the area, I would love to see you. Tickets from : 1-800-988-4253. “We are also looking for donated auction items,” to donate items and for info about the banquet after the concert contact mac@pattipageproducts.com. To donate direct email dbaker@faithcommunity.ws. Patti continues, “My husband, Jerry, and I have been enjoying six weeks of performances at The Follies Theatre in Branson, Missouri. This is the first time I have performed in Branson, and I hope it will not be the last. If you would like to check on my upcoming tour dates, you can always log on to www.MissPattiPage.com. God Bless." Randy Travis will release an album of Southern gospel music on October 25th on Word Records in the USA, his fifth project for the label. 'Glory Train: Songs of Faith, Worship & Praise' features acoustic arrangements of songs like ‘Swing Down Chariot’, ‘Precious Memories’, ‘Down by the Riverside’ and 'O Death’. Randy Travis is the recipient of six DOVE AWARDS from the GOSPEL MUSIC ASSOCIATION. Congratulations to RELIENT K who have just had their single ‘Be My Escape’ certified Platinum. And Finally… NCM's FRED LEONARD sent this to us to ponder on:- DANCING WITH GOD..... When I meditated on the word GUIDANCE, I kept seeing "dance" at the end of the word. I remember reading that doing God's will is a lot like dancing. When two people try to lead, nothing feels right! The movement doesn't flow with the music, and everything is quite uncomfortable and jerky. When one person realizes that, and lets the other lead, both bodies begin to flow with the music. One gives gentle cues, perhaps with a nudge to the back or by pressing lightly in one direction or another. It's as if two become one body, moving beautifully. The dance takes surrender, willingness, and attentiveness from one person and gentle guidance and skill from the other. My eyes drew back to the word GUIDANCE. When I saw "G," I thought of God, followed by "u" and God, you, and I dance. As I lowered my head, I became willing to trust would get guidance about my life. Once again, I became willing to let God lead. My prayer f |