Co-hosts Bart Millard and Lecrae
emerged as the big winner during the 45
th annual Dove Awards, held Tuesday (Oct. 7) at Lipscomb University’s Allen Arena in Nashville.
Hillsong, the musical arm of Sydney, Australia-based Hillsong Church, earned five honors, including Artist of the Year and Song of the Year, for “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail).” Hillsong Church also earned a Lifetime Achievement Award for its work in ministry for the past 20 years. Hillsong team member
Jonathon Douglass accepted the honors on behalf of the organization. Hillsong’s musical branch incorporates several groups, including Hillsong United and Hillsong Young and Free. “We believe the local church will be the salvation of generations. People’s lives are meeting Jesus and as long as that keeps happening we will keep doing this in Jesus’ name,” said Douglass.
The evening featured performances from soulful singer
Erica Campbell (featuring
Lecrae), girl pop group
1 Girl Nation, worship leader
Kari Jobe, rapper
Andy Mineo, gospel performer
Hezekiah Walker and more. Newcomer duo
Love and The Outcome displayed their multiple talents during “He Is With Us,” featuring
Chris Rademaker on guitar and harmonies, while
Jodi King simultaneously handled lead vocals, keyboard and drum duties.
Jonathon Douglass from Hillsong
Rapper Lecrae, who recently scored a No. 1 debut on the
Billboard 200 with his album
Anomaly, and MercyMe lead singer
Bart Millard proved fitting hosts for the evening of diverse musical styles. The pair turned their musical differences into a comedic moment when Millard tried his hand at rapping, with the aid of a “hypeman,” and Lecrae sang backed by guitars.
“Where are the turntables at?” asked Lecrae.
“Oh we actually play our music,” replied Millard, to the roaring laughter of the crowd.
“I’ll remember that next time I’m on
Fallon,” retorted Lecrae, referencing his recent appearance on
The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
Later in the evening, after a country/folk-inspired performance, MercyMe was surprised onstage with the news that their signature song, 2001’s “I Can Only Imagine,” has become the first gospel song to earn 2 million digital downloads.
After bringing the crowd to its feet with a rendition of her hit single “Overcomer,”
Mandisa took home her first Dove Award for Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year. “I am thankful for this. I think back to [finishing in ninth place on]
American Idol eight years ago. I was convinced that I was being kicked to the curb. I didn’t know what to do, but I’m a living witness, if you seek first the kingdom of God.”
Dove Award favorite
Natalie Grant showcased her formidable, soulful vocal on an a cappella snippet of “I Need Thee Every Hour,” followed by her recent single “Hurricane.”
Producer
Brown Bannister’s daughter and rising artist
Ellie Holcomb earned New Artist of the Year. She offered an emotional acceptance speech, quoting Hosea 6:3, and thanking fans who helped her launch her album
As Sure As The Sun via Kickstarter this year.
Talented entertainers and musicians
For King & Country’s performance closed out the show with a mix of drums, high-energy music and confetti, capping an evening that celebrated uplifting music made of varying styles, but a united message.
The 45th annual Dove Awards will be broadcast on the Trinity Broadcasting Network on Sunday, Oct. 12.
The Dove Awards recently secured a long-term partnership with Lipscomb University in Nashville, which includes housing the Gospel Music Association’s offices on campus. The Dove Awards for 2015 will be held at Lipscomb’s Allen Arena on Oct. 13, while the 2016 Dove Awards will be held at Allen Arena on Oct. 11.
45th Annual Dove Awards Winners
Song of the Year—“Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” – Hillsong UNITED, (writers) Matt Crocker, Joel Houston, Salomon Ligthelm (publisher) Hillsong Music Publishing/EMICMGPublishing.com
Songwriter of the Year—Chris Tomlin
Contemporary Christian Performance of the Year—“Oceans (Where Feet May Fail),” Hillsong UNITED, Hillsong Music/Sparrow Records, (producer) Michael Guy Chislett
Artist of the Year—Hillsong UNITED, Hillsong Music
New Artist of the Year—Ellie Holcomb
Producer of the Year—Ed Cash
Rap/Hip Hop Song of the Year—“100,” KB (ft. Andy Mineo), (writers) Kevin Burgess, Andy Mineo, Lasanna “ACE” Harris, Joseph Prielozny
Rock Song of the Year—”Not Gonna Die,” Skillet, (writers) John Cooper, Korey Cooper
Rock/Contemporary Song of the Year—“Love Alone Is Worth The Fight,” Switchfoot, (writers) Jon Foreman, Tim Foreman
Pop/Contemporary Song of the Year—“Oceans (Where Feet May Fail),” Hillsong UNITED, (writers) Matt Crocker, Joel Houston, Salomon Ligthelm
Contemporary Gospel/Urban Song of the Year—“Every Praise,” Hezekiah Walker, (writer) David Bratton, Hezekiah Walker
Worship Song of the Year—“Oceans (Where Feet May Fail),” Hillsong UNITED, (writers) Matt Crocker, Joel Houston, Salomon Ligthelm (publisher) Hillsong Music Publishing/EMICMGPublishing.com
Rock Album of the Year—
Rise, Skillet, (producer) Howard Benson
Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year—
Overcomer, Mandisa, (producers) David Garcia, Christopher Stevens, Chuck Butler, Ronald Rawls
Praise and Worship Album of the Year—
Majestic, Kari Jobe, (producer) Jeremy Edwardson
Inspirational Film of the Year—
God’s Not Dead, (director) Harold Cronk, (producer) Pure Flix Entertainment
Official images provided by Rick Diamond and Terry Wyatt of Getty Images for the 45th Annual GMA Dove Awards.
Dallas Davidson Celebrates 2014 CMA Song of the Year Nomination
/by Kelsey_GradyPictured (L-R): Dallas Davidson, Rob Hatch and Lee Brice
Photo: Beth Gwinn
Dallas Davidson, along with co-writers and friends Lee Brice and Rob Hatch, celebrated their 2014 CMA Song of the Year nomination for the RIAA platinum certified No. 1 hit “I Don’t Dance” at East Ivy Mansion in Nashville, TN on Oct. 7.
Davidson, who received his 19th No. 1 in August, was surprised by Troy Tomlinson and the Sony/ATV team with a plaque commemorating his “19 No. 1s and Counting,” adding that if No. 1s were counted by sales, it’d be at least Davidson’s 38th No. 1. Representatives from BMI and Davidson’s management team were there to celebrate Davidson as well as his brother, sister and wife, who is expecting their first child.
Davidson made a heartfelt speech expressing his appreciation for the support he receives from his family, his team and Nashville as a whole.
Davidson is currently out on the road with Ben Hayslip and Rhett Akins, known collectively as the Peach Pickers, finishing up the last leg of Luke Bryan’s annual Farm Tour.
Dallas Davidson with Troy Tomlinson and Sony/ATV Team. Photo: Beth Gwinn
CMA Award Nominees To Play Songwriter Series
/by Eric T. ParkerClark is nominated twice for the 48th annual awards, one for New Artist of the Year and another for Song of the Year (co-writing Kacey Musgraves’ “Follow Your Arrow”). The 2014 MusicRow Breakthrough Artist of the Year also co-wrote No. 1 hits for Miranda Lambert (“Mama’s Broken Heart”) and The Band Perry (“Better Dig Two”). She will embark on Eric Church’s The Outsiders World Tour beginning Oct. 16.
Johnston also boasts two 2014 CMA Awards nominations: Single of the Year (co-producing Dierks Bentley’s “Drunk On A Plane”) as well as Album of the Year (co-producing Bentley’s Riser). He also wrote 2014 CMA Single and Musical Event of the Year nominated song “Meanwhile Back at Mama’s,” recorded by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. Johnston has penned No. 1 songs for Keith Urban (“You Gonna Fly”) and Jake Owen (“Beachin’”). He is a member of Big Machine Records recording group The Cadillac Three, who are currently on Owen’s Days Of Gold Tour.
Tickets for the Nov. 4 CMA Songwriters Series are currently on sale for $20-30 at CMASongwritersSeries.com.
Artist Pics: Kellie Pickler, Maddie & Tae, Lucy Hale
/by Kelsey_GradyKellie Pickler’s halftime performance at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, NC.
Kellie Pickler delivered the halftime performance last Sunday, October 5 during the Chicago Bears vs. Carolina Panthers game at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, NC.
Maddie & Tae showcased a hearty mix of sweet and spitfire on the November 4 digital release on Dot Records, a newly established imprint underneath the Big Machine Label Group. Already creating buzz at radio with their Top 15-and-climbing debut single, “Girl In A Country Song” boasts over 8.9 million views online and has consistently remained in the Top 5 Country videos on iTunes after escalating to the top spot.
TRACKLISTING:
Lucy Hale performs “Lie A Little Better” on The Ellen Degeneres Show.
Yesterday, rising country music singer and Pretty Little Liars star Lucy Hale appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Fans were treated to a fun “Is Lucy A Liar?” interview as well Lucy’s performance of her brand new single, “Lie A Little Better.”
Auction Block: Willie's Braids, Naomi's Memorabilia
/by Eric T. ParkerLot 249. Willie Nelson’s Trademark Braids, 1983. Photo: Guernseys
The Dallas Morning News is reporting a pair of Willie Nelson’s braided locks of hair sold for $37,000 at auction on October 5.
The specimen were part of 2,000 items Jessi Colter, Waylon Jenning’s wife of over 30-years, listed with New York City-based Guernesey’s, in part to benefit the Phoenix Children’s Hospital.
In 1983 Nelson’s braids were cut in support of Jennings’ sobriety, and presented at a party thrown by Johnny Cash.
Final values for additional items of “Remembering Waylon” have not been released, but included Buddy Holly’s motorcycle, a letter to Jennings from John Lennon, a Rolex watch, and a contract between Nelson, Jennings, Cash and Kris Kristofferson for the Highwaymen.
• • •
Photo: Tom Galloway
Fashions and personal memorabilia from Naomi Judd will go up for auction at Julien’s Auctions Beverly Hills as part of the Icons & Idols Rock “N” Roll catalog, from November 7-8.
In part to benefit Tuckets House Charity, Judd’s Country collection includes memorable costumes (“Love Is Alive” and “Give A Little Love”), belt buckles and instruments. Additional items from Judd’s husband Larry Strickland of The Jordanaires/Stamps Quartet include Elvis Presley memorabilia and a shirt gifted by the iconic Memphis star.
A full catalog of items is available.
New York Music Biz Seeks Tax Breaks
/by Sarah SkatesThe Empire State Music Production Tax Credit would provide companies and individuals who record and produce music in NYS with a 20 percent income tax credit for qualifying expenditures. According to the New York Times, the bill would give $60 million in tax breaks each year.
The bill was introduced by NYS Assemblyman Joseph Lentol (Brooklyn, District 50). “We are losing quality jobs and tax revenues to states and countries that have begun to offer targeted and thoughtful incentives to the multi-billion dollar global music industry,” said Assemblyman Lentol, who modeled the bill after the successful New York State Film Tax Credit initiative, which he also spearheaded.
Members of the music industry have formed the New York Is Music coalition. The organization aims to increase awareness of the industry’s economic impact, advocate for local and state initiatives that retain and grow jobs, promote music education, and support the preservation of New York’s music heritage.
New York Is Music was conceived by William Harvey (William Harvey Studio) and Justin Kalifowitz (CEO of Downtown Music Publishing). The coalition is comprised of a growing list of over 60 organizations including Glassnote Records, BMI, The Recording Academy, The Associated Musicians of Greater New York (Local 802), NYU’s Clive Davis School of Recorded Music and the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce.
Westwood One Is Exclusive Ad Sales Partner For Rdio
/by Sarah Skates(L-R): Tyler Hubbard, WNSH/New York PD Brian Thomas, Brian Kelley
The national sales force of Westwood One now provides exclusive ad sales representation for streaming service Rdio. Cumulus and Westwood One celebrated the expansion of Rdio’s free ad-supported streaming options with a star-studded event last night (Oct. 7) at NYC’s Diamond Horseshoe. Singer-songwriter Matt Nathanson hosted and performed at the event, which was led by Florida Georgia Line and featured performances by The Madden Brothers and Capital Cities.
Rdio offers access to more than 50 curated stations and over 30 million songs.
Cumulus/NASH American Country Countdown host Kix Brooks and Cumulus’ John Dickey
Photos: Brittni Moten
Florida Georgia Line Announces 'Anything Goes Tour'
/by Troy_StephensonThe duo will hit arenas in the United States and Canada including a stop at Madison Square Garden in New York City on Feb. 25, 2015.
The first leg of the tour kicks off Jan. 15, 2015 in Toledo, OH and will cover 24-plus cities. The tour will also feature openers Thomas Rhett and Frankie Ballard.
“Anything Goes is a mindset for us, setting the tone for everything we do, and we believe in making memories at all cost. We can’t wait to bring the party to our fans at our live shows,” shares FGL’s Brian Kelley.
FGL’s Tyler Hubbard adds, “being out on the road with Jake Owen, Luke Bryan and Jason Aldean, we’ve learned from the best. We took note of the things we loved and then put the FGL stamp all over. Our fans are the best and we can’t wait to show them what we have in store!”
Pictured (L-R) FGL’s Tyler Hubbard, NBC’s Al Roker, FGL’s Brian Kelley
Fans can purchase a VIP package which includes a premium ticket, exclusive access to a pre-show acoustic performance, limited edition autographed merchandise and more. For more information, visit FloridaGeorgiaLine.com
Anything Goes Tour*
1/15 Toledo, OH
1/16 Dayton, OH
1/17 Charlottesville, VA
1/22 Biloxi, MS
1/23 Lafayette, LA
1/24 Little Rock, AR
2/12 Sioux City, IA
2/13 Lincoln, NE
2/14 Moline, IL
2/18 Manchester, NH
2/19 Ottawa, ON
2/20 Kingston, ON
2/21 Uncasville, CT
2/25 New York, NY
3/21 Orange Beach, AL
4/30 Columbia, SC
5/1 Charleston, WV
5/2 Hershey, PA
5/3 Wilkes-Barre, PA
5/7 Providence, RI
5/8 Atlantic City, NJ
*Initial announced dates
Broken Bow's Jackie Lee Makes Opry Debut
/by Troy_StephensonJackie Lee on The Grand Ole Opry
Broken Bow Records’ Jackie Lee made his Grand Ole Opry debut on Tuesday, Sept. 30. He brought the crowd to a standing ovation, which is a rare occurrence for someone playing that stage for the first time.
“That moment was so much greater than myself,” explains Jackie. “I was humbled to stand in the same circle as the legends that put the love of country music in my soul.”
Lee performed three songs including his debut single, “She Does,” the ballad “First Girl” and the crowd-pleasing “Driveway.”
Also on the bill that night were Bill Anderson, Connie Smith, Brett Eldredge, Easton Corbin, Marty Stuart and Rascal Flatts.
Lee’s entire family was in attendance for the special occasion, and his dad, Jack Midkiff, was able to share the experience alongside him playing keys on the performance.
The Broken Bow recording artist also celebrated his 23rd birthday that week on Thursday, Oct. 2. He is currently on the road visiting radio and was recently named a Billboard “Tomorrow’s Hits” artist.
For more information on Jackie Lee, visit www.JackieLee.com
Dove Awards Showcase Diverse Styles, United Message
/by Jessica NicholsonCo-hosts Bart Millard and Lecrae
Hillsong emerged as the big winner during the 45th annual Dove Awards, held Tuesday (Oct. 7) at Lipscomb University’s Allen Arena in Nashville.
Hillsong, the musical arm of Sydney, Australia-based Hillsong Church, earned five honors, including Artist of the Year and Song of the Year, for “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail).” Hillsong Church also earned a Lifetime Achievement Award for its work in ministry for the past 20 years. Hillsong team member Jonathon Douglass accepted the honors on behalf of the organization. Hillsong’s musical branch incorporates several groups, including Hillsong United and Hillsong Young and Free. “We believe the local church will be the salvation of generations. People’s lives are meeting Jesus and as long as that keeps happening we will keep doing this in Jesus’ name,” said Douglass.
The evening featured performances from soulful singer Erica Campbell (featuring Lecrae), girl pop group 1 Girl Nation, worship leader Kari Jobe, rapper Andy Mineo, gospel performer Hezekiah Walker and more. Newcomer duo Love and The Outcome displayed their multiple talents during “He Is With Us,” featuring Chris Rademaker on guitar and harmonies, while Jodi King simultaneously handled lead vocals, keyboard and drum duties.
Jonathon Douglass from Hillsong
Rapper Lecrae, who recently scored a No. 1 debut on the Billboard 200 with his album Anomaly, and MercyMe lead singer Bart Millard proved fitting hosts for the evening of diverse musical styles. The pair turned their musical differences into a comedic moment when Millard tried his hand at rapping, with the aid of a “hypeman,” and Lecrae sang backed by guitars.
“Where are the turntables at?” asked Lecrae.
“Oh we actually play our music,” replied Millard, to the roaring laughter of the crowd.
“I’ll remember that next time I’m on Fallon,” retorted Lecrae, referencing his recent appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
Later in the evening, after a country/folk-inspired performance, MercyMe was surprised onstage with the news that their signature song, 2001’s “I Can Only Imagine,” has become the first gospel song to earn 2 million digital downloads.
After bringing the crowd to its feet with a rendition of her hit single “Overcomer,” Mandisa took home her first Dove Award for Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year. “I am thankful for this. I think back to [finishing in ninth place on] American Idol eight years ago. I was convinced that I was being kicked to the curb. I didn’t know what to do, but I’m a living witness, if you seek first the kingdom of God.”
Dove Award favorite Natalie Grant showcased her formidable, soulful vocal on an a cappella snippet of “I Need Thee Every Hour,” followed by her recent single “Hurricane.”
Producer Brown Bannister’s daughter and rising artist Ellie Holcomb earned New Artist of the Year. She offered an emotional acceptance speech, quoting Hosea 6:3, and thanking fans who helped her launch her album As Sure As The Sun via Kickstarter this year.
Talented entertainers and musicians For King & Country’s performance closed out the show with a mix of drums, high-energy music and confetti, capping an evening that celebrated uplifting music made of varying styles, but a united message.
The 45th annual Dove Awards will be broadcast on the Trinity Broadcasting Network on Sunday, Oct. 12.
The Dove Awards recently secured a long-term partnership with Lipscomb University in Nashville, which includes housing the Gospel Music Association’s offices on campus. The Dove Awards for 2015 will be held at Lipscomb’s Allen Arena on Oct. 13, while the 2016 Dove Awards will be held at Allen Arena on Oct. 11.
45th Annual Dove Awards Winners
Song of the Year—“Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” – Hillsong UNITED, (writers) Matt Crocker, Joel Houston, Salomon Ligthelm (publisher) Hillsong Music Publishing/EMICMGPublishing.com
Songwriter of the Year—Chris Tomlin
Contemporary Christian Performance of the Year—“Oceans (Where Feet May Fail),” Hillsong UNITED, Hillsong Music/Sparrow Records, (producer) Michael Guy Chislett
Artist of the Year—Hillsong UNITED, Hillsong Music
New Artist of the Year—Ellie Holcomb
Producer of the Year—Ed Cash
Rap/Hip Hop Song of the Year—“100,” KB (ft. Andy Mineo), (writers) Kevin Burgess, Andy Mineo, Lasanna “ACE” Harris, Joseph Prielozny
Rock Song of the Year—”Not Gonna Die,” Skillet, (writers) John Cooper, Korey Cooper
Rock/Contemporary Song of the Year—“Love Alone Is Worth The Fight,” Switchfoot, (writers) Jon Foreman, Tim Foreman
Pop/Contemporary Song of the Year—“Oceans (Where Feet May Fail),” Hillsong UNITED, (writers) Matt Crocker, Joel Houston, Salomon Ligthelm
Contemporary Gospel/Urban Song of the Year—“Every Praise,” Hezekiah Walker, (writer) David Bratton, Hezekiah Walker
Worship Song of the Year—“Oceans (Where Feet May Fail),” Hillsong UNITED, (writers) Matt Crocker, Joel Houston, Salomon Ligthelm (publisher) Hillsong Music Publishing/EMICMGPublishing.com
Rock Album of the Year—Rise, Skillet, (producer) Howard Benson
Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year—Overcomer, Mandisa, (producers) David Garcia, Christopher Stevens, Chuck Butler, Ronald Rawls
Praise and Worship Album of the Year—Majestic, Kari Jobe, (producer) Jeremy Edwardson
Inspirational Film of the Year—God’s Not Dead, (director) Harold Cronk, (producer) Pure Flix Entertainment
Official images provided by Rick Diamond and Terry Wyatt of Getty Images for the 45th Annual GMA Dove Awards.
The Swon Brothers Presented With 'MusicRow' Challenge Coin
/by Kelsey_GradyMusicRow recently honored The Swon Brothers for their chart-topping single, “Later On,” which hit the No. 1 spot on MusicRow’s CountryBreakout Chart on Aug. 21, 2014. The duo was presented with a MusicRow Challenge Coin to mark the occasion.
Writers on the song include Ryan Hurd, Joey Hyde, and Justin Wilson. Publishers include Universal Music Corporation, Lake Allegan Pub Club, Sony/ATV Tree Publishing, and Magic Mustang Music Inc.
Audiences first became aware of Zach and Colton Swon after they finished third in NBC’s The Voice’s third season. “It’s been such a wild ride since The Voice,” said Colton. “To now have our first number one song, that is definitely something special we will cherish.”
The Swon Brothers are nominated for Vocal Duo of the Year at the upcoming CMA Awards, and the band’s Arista Nashville self-titled debut album will be released Oct. 14.
Zach and Colton Swon receive “MusicRow” No. 1 Challenge Coins to commemorate the chart-topping success of “Later On.”
The Swon Brothers, their Arista Nashville team members and manager Greg Hill, join “MusicRow” to celebrate.