“I was just a part of a band.” That’s how Jonathan Mason, now Vice President of A&R and Publishing in the Christian division of Curb Entertainment, sums up the unlikely start of his journey into the music business. For someone now shaping the careers of artists like Big Daddy Weave, Meredith Andrews, Sidewalk Prophets, and newcomers like Lloyd Nicks, Matthews, and Carly Ann Taylor, it’s a reminder that calling often starts quietly. “We were together about ten years,” Jonathan says of that early worship band. “In that band, I became a manager, became a booking agent—kind of became all things music business—and had no idea that it was leading me…

The 13th annual We Love Christian Music Awards lit up Liberty Hall at The Factory in Franklin, TN, on April 8, 2025, with an unforgettable evening of celebration, worship, and high-energy performances. Honoring the best in Christian music across 22 categories, this year’s ceremony spotlighted industry veterans and emerging talent, showcasing the rich diversity and depth of Christian music. The evening kicked off with a star-studded red carpet event, covered by national and local media outlets that included Getty Images, CCM Magazine, Christian Television Network, and The Tania Joy Show. NewReleaseToday streamed live from the carpet, interviewing presenters, performers, and a host of attending artists, capturing all the excitement leading…

A few years ago, I found myself at Universal Orlando’s CityWalk entertainment district just as a late-afternoon thunderstorm came rolling through. We took refuge inside a packed Margaritaville. While I’m a parrot head to my core, I never imagined that would be the place I’d bump into one of my favorite guitar players from a pioneering Christian punk band. Paul “Q-Pek” Ciupek helped redefine Christian music in the 90’s, and here he was casually strumming an acoustic on Jimmy Buffet’s back porch. What an amazing day.  In the late 80’s, when skateboarding became a huge part of American youth culture, I too had a skateboard. What I lacked however was…

Okay, hear me out. What if I told you the most unexpected Star Wars reunion of the year isn’t happening in a galaxy far, far away—but instead, in the most powerful story ever told? Angel Studios’ new animated feature King of Kings hits theaters April 11, and while it’s an awe-inspiring, heartfelt retelling of the life of Jesus through the eyes of Charles Dickens and his son, there’s something else buzzing beneath the surface—something that had this Star Wars fan doing double takes all throughout the cast list. They didn’t just cast a few familiar voices. They assembled a Force-level roster. Let’s start with Oscar Isaac, who voices Jesus. Yes, that Oscar Isaac—Poe Dameron from the sequel trilogy. From Resistance…

Angel, the film & TV platform curated by over one million members of the Angel Guild, has released the video and song for “Live Like That,” the closing song for is now available. Performed by Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress and singer, Kristin Chenoweth, and written by Chenoweth, Kellys Collins, Tim Nichols, Matt Wynn and produced by Keith Thomas, “Live Like That” shares a story of yearning for a childlike faith. “I am deeply honored to be part of such a significant project,” said Chenoweth. “The opportunity to contribute musically to a film that explores the life of Jesus Christ is both a professional and personal milestone. I hope my…

Get ready to follow the music deep to its heart! This Labor Day weekend, a dream decades in the making becomes a reality as The Museum of Christian & Gospel Music (The C&G) opens its doors in the heart of Music City. Nestled just steps from the legendary Ryman Auditorium, the Gospel Music Association presents this faith-filled celebration of the music that has uplifted, inspired, and transformed generations as an exciting addition to Nashville’s vibrant Music Museum landscape. Reserve your spot in history by purchasing advance tickets or becoming a Founding Member today. From the soaring harmonies of Gospel greats to today’s chart-topping Christian songs, The C&G will honor the…

Presence Music Band, the dynamic pop worship group from Duluth, MN, has released their latest single, “Refining Me.” The beautiful song, released by NRT Music, is a heartfelt declaration of faith and surrender, inviting listeners into a moment of reflection while encouraging them to trust in God’s steadfast love even in the face of uncertainty. “Refining Me,” penned by Leah Monson, acknowledges the struggles of faith while celebrating the peace found in God’s presence. With soaring melodies and a tender yet powerful delivery, the track will resonate with worshippers everywhere. “This song is a quiet reminder that we don’t have to understand God’s ways to trust Him,” says Presence Music…

Christian hip-hop artist and youth leader Sam Llanes is turning heads and shifting sounds in 2025. Known for his bold lyrics and contagious energy, Sam is now stepping confidently into his Latin era, blending Reggaeton, Brazilian Funk, Salsa, and Hip-Hop in a way that’s both fresh and faith-filled. Following the emotional depth of his recent Pain to Praise EP, Sam has just dropped a brand-new single, “DANGERous”–a high-energy anthem reminding believers that walking boldly with Christ makes them a threat to darkness. It’s just one of many records showing his sonic evolution and heart for reaching people from all walks of life. This summer, Sam is planning a local tour…

NASHVILLE, TN  Acclaimed pianist and composer Paul Cardall, a Steinway & Sons Artist and Dove Award-winning musician, will release his latest masterpiece, Ascensus Christi: A Piano Rhapsody, on April 4, 2025. Inspired by the biblical account of Christ’s ascension, this powerful composition reflects on the mystery, awe, and eternal hope found in the promise of Heaven. With his signature ability to translate faith into music, Cardall weaves expressive piano melodies with cinematic orchestration, capturing the wonder of Christ’s departure from Earth and His triumphant return to the Father. Beginning with a reverent, contemplative theme, the piece builds into a breathtaking crescendo, inviting listeners into a deeply spiritual journey that mirrors…