November 6, 2020 Years after hanging up her microphone “for good this time,” she got the call. It came quickly for Christian Rock Artist Jodi Essex on the tailend of a successful career in film and television; at the time, she recalls feeling disenchanted with the CCM genre’s general ethos and lack of diversity. In 2018, the call to write, record and release a Christian album became clear, just in time for the year 2020 to hit. Discerning God’s voice in the era of COVID amidst growing tensions, an exclusive interview with Jodi reveals how God’s call for her music has proven to be worth it. “I’ve learned not even…

NASHVILLE, TN…December 2, 2020 American Idol finalist Colton Dixon’s hit single “Miracles,” from Dixon’s Atlantic Records debut, has officially hit Top 5 on Billboard’s National Christian Audience chart following holding on to the No. 1 spot for 6 weeks on Hot/AC CHR this past summer. KLOVE also featured Dixon on their homepage this week discussing mainstream opportunies, fatherhood and every day miracles. Available to watch on-demand at thenationaltree.org starting at 5 p.m. ET on December 3rd and throughout the holiday season, a festive compilation of Christmas lights and music, national parks, and holiday cheer, the 98th National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will bring joy into homes across the country. Dixon…

Have you ever been with a friend who constantly looks at their phone when they’re with you? My pet peeve is when I meet someone for coffee and they keep looking at their phone. I can’t help but think…is it me? Is it something I’m saying? Am I not good enough to have their full attention? This also happens on occasion at social gatherings when a person looks behind me or around me, rather than looking at me when I’m talking. I have to admit, I wonder why they’re so distracted. It is hard to build a relationship with someone who is only half-in. Or, half-way listening. Or, half-way minding what they’re saying to you. I…

Internationally recognized praise band Planetshakers globally releases It’s Christmas Live Nov. 27 from Venture3Media (V3M). Available to pre-buy pre-save now at all major digital and streaming outlets, the recording celebrates Jesus and His coming to earth to bring us life, hope and freedom. Recorded live in front of a packed auditorium at Planetshakers Church before the pandemic lockdowns, the full production recording and companion video was produced, directed and mixed by Joth Hunt at Planetshakers Studios. Combining Planetshakers’ unique musical interpretation of classic favorites alongside its original Christmas songs, the new album is led by Hunt and worship leaders Rudy Nikkerud, Chelsi Nikkerud, Natalie Ruiz, Joe Vatucicila, Rachel Vatucicila, Kemara…

Over the weekend, the American Music Awards aired live from The Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. This year, the AMAs had one Christian category for favorite contemporary inspirational artist Lauren Daigle took home the win, beating for KING & COUNTRY and Kanye West. This is Lauren’s fourth time winning the AMA’s favorite contemporary inspirational artist, and the fifth time she has been nominated. Lauren Daigle is one of the many artists who won this weekend at the American Music Awards; pop artists Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, and others won this year in their respective categories. You can share your congratulations with Lauren on her social media pages![…]

Recenlty, the Grammy Awards announced the 2021 nominees for their 63rd annual awards ceremony. Among others, Kari Jobe, We The Kingdom, Kanye West, and Travis Greene are all nominated. The Grammy Awards will take place Sunday, January 31 on CBS. There is a total of 83 categories from a wide variety of genres and artists. The full list of Christian/Gospel nominees is below. For more information on the Grammy Awards and to view the complete list of nominees from other genres, go to https//www.grammy.com/grammys/news/2021-grammys-complete-nominees-list#11. BEST CONTEMPORARY CHRISTIAN MUSIC PERFORMANCE/SONG The Blessing Kari Jobe, Cody Carnes, Elevation Worship Sunday Morning Lecrae & Kirk Franklin Holy Water We The Kingdom Famous For…