Newsboys Breakfast

Christian music news: Newsboys - Glorious

2009-10-07T00:13:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Newsboys "I Am Free"

2009-09-30T00:11:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Newsboys "Jesus Freak"

2009-09-23T00:10:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: newsboys at Sonshine '09 Ben-O's Crew Cam

2009-09-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Upside - newsboys (official)

2009-09-09T05:59:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Newsboys featuring Michael Tait Glorious

2009-09-02T05:58:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: UpRise Festival 2009 - 8.1.09 - Newsboys - Jesus Freak

2009-08-26T05:57:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Newsboys @ the Stanislaus County Fair

2009-08-19T05:56:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Newsboys: Stay Strong

2009-08-12T05:55:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Newsboys - Entertaining Angels ( live in TX. )

2009-08-05T01:15:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: newsboys gma interview

2009-07-29T01:14:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Newsboys up close

2009-07-22T01:13:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Newsboys introduction

2009-07-15T01:12:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: In the Light (part 2)- Newsboys

2009-07-08T01:11:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: In the Light (part 1)- Newsboys

2009-07-01T01:08:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Something Beautiful-Newsboys @ Spirit West Coast

2009-06-24T02:11:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Blessed be Your Name/He Reigns-Newsboys

2009-06-17T02:10:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Newsboys hit No 1 with 'In The Hands of God'

2009-06-10T23:41:00.000-07:00

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Newsboys debuted at No 1 last week on the US-based SoundScan Christian Albums chart with their fourteenth studio release, In The Hands of God.

The album, whose title track also recently topped the Christian AC radio chart, additionally claimed No 1 on the SoundScan Christian Adult Contemporary Albums chart, Soundscan Christian Digital chart, No 1 on iTunes' Christian/Gospel Top Albums chart and No 28 on the Billboard Top 200.

It marks Inpop Records' biggest ever street week in its 10 year history and the first No 1 record for Newsboys since releasing Adoration in 2003.

Jeff Frankenstein of Newsboys commented on the response, "After 20 plus years of being a band, all we can really say is 'thank you'! We are truly blessed with wonderfully loyal fans."

Inpop President Dale Bray added: "This a great day for both Newsboys and Inpop. Much credit and gratitude goes to our friends at EMI CMG, retail and radio for continued support over the past years. It's a remarkable effort and highlights the strength of the newsboys brand, music and ministry."

Produced by Max Hsu (Superchick, tobyMac) along with Newsboys' Peter Furler and Jeff Frankenstein, In The Hands of God boasts the classic rock sound that has made Newsboys' music legendary among Christian music fans for more than two decades.

Featuring 10 hit songs, including "No Grave", "The Way We Roll" and "Glorious", the album additionally includes background vocals by Michael Tait of dc Talk, who recently stepped into the role of new frontman for Newsboys.

In The Hands of God, the last album on which Furler will sing, is an autobiographical record and a tribute to God's divine providence over Newsboys' long-running career. The band recently wrapped its 35-city "Join The Tribe" tour this spring.

With five gold albums, sales exceeding six million units, 25 No1 radio hits, and a mantle of Dove Awards as well as Grammy nominations, Newsboys has achieved phenomenal success in its two decades together.

Known for its amazing live performances and groundbreaking tours, the band continues to sellout festivals and concerts worldwide, satisfying diehard fans and winning new ones in the process.

Christian Music News Source

Christian music news: NEWSBOYS’ NEW ALBUM IN THE HANDS OF GOD DEBUTS AT NO. 1

2009-06-03T20:51:00.000-07:00

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(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) May 14, 2009—newsboys debuted at No. 1 this week on the SoundScan Christian Albums chart with its fourteenth studio release, In The Hands of God. The album, whose title track also recently topped the Christian AC radio chart, additionally claimed No. 1 on the SoundScan Christian Adult Contemporary Albums chart, Soundscan Christian Digital chart, No. 1 on iTunes’ Christian/Gospel Top Albums chart and No. 28 on the Billboard Top 200. The occasion marks Inpop Records’ biggest ever street week in its 10 year history and the first No.1 record for newsboys since releasing Adoration in 2003.

Jeff Frankenstein of newsboys comments on the response, “After 20 plus years of being a band, all we can really say is ‘thank-you’! We are truly blessed with wonderfully loyal fans.”

Inpop President Dale Bray adds “This a great day for both newsboys and Inpop. Much credit and gratitude goes to our friends at EMI CMG, retail and radio for continued support over the past years. It’s a remarkable effort and highlights the strength of the newsboys brand, music and ministry.”

Produced by Max Hsu (Superchick, tobyMac) along with newsboys’ Peter Furler and Jeff Frankenstein, In The Hands of God boasts the classic rock sound that has made newsboys’ music legendary among Christian music fans for more than two decades. Featuring 10 hit songs, including “No Grave,” “The Way We Roll” and “Glorious,” the album additionally includes background vocals by Michael Tait of dc Talk, who recently stepped into the role of new frontman for newsboys. In The Hands of God, the last album on which Furler will sing, is an autobiographical record and a tribute to God’s divine providence over newsboys’ long-running career. The band recently wrapped its 35-city “Join The Tribe” tour this spring. For the most up-to-date tour itinerary, visit www.myspace.com/newsboys.

With five gold albums, sales exceeding six million units, 25 No.1 radio hits, and a mantle of Dove Awards as well as Grammy nominations, newsboys has achieved phenomenal success in its two decades together. Known for its amazing live performances and groundbreaking tours, the band continues to sellout festivals and concerts worldwide, satisfying diehard fans and winning new ones in the process. For more information, visit www.newsboys.com.

Christian Music News Source

Newsboys Snags 25th No. 1 Hit

2009-05-27T20:16:00.000-07:00

Christian pop rock band newboys picked up their 25th radio hit weeks ahead of their upcoming album release.

According to the Radio & Records Christian AC Indicator chart, "In the Hands of God," the title track of the newsboys' fourteenth studio album, landed at No. 1 earlier this month, marking "a new era for the band," as newsboys manager Wes Campbell commented.

“Whilst this is just one of many number one singles the band has received, they are all important to us,” he said, “and we have great appreciation to all the radio stations out there that have continued to support both our music and passion for ministry.”

“We’re thrilled that ‘In The Hands of God’ hit No 1,” added newsboys member Jeff Frankenstein. “It’s a song that means a lot to all of us. In times like these, it’s great to be reminded of God’s love for His children and to be encouraged that ultimately, He has everything under His control.”

“In the Hands of God” is one of ten tracks that appear in the newsboys upcoming project of the same name. Produced by Max Hsu (Superchick, tobyMac) along with newsboys’ Frankenstein and Peter Furler, the album boasts the classic rock sound that has made newsboys’ music legendary among Christian music fans for more than two decades.

Songs in the upcoming album include “No Grave,” “The Way We Roll” and “Glorious.”

Also included are background vocals by Michael Tait of dc Talk, who last month stepped into the role of new frontman for newsboys.

The band had announced the change on March 9 and posted a statement by former frontman Furler about the move more than two weeks later.

“For me, the decision is that after traveling many thousands of miles across land and sea for over 22 years, along with needing to constantly keep writing and reach production deadlines–let alone feed my dog, It was time for something to give, and my booking agent and his GPS drew the short straw,” Furler explained.

The band did report, however, that Furler would continue with the band and that his trademark songwriting and production would remain as he focuses his professional career toward future newsboys recordings.

They also said Furler would make special appearances throughout the year.

In The Hands of God, however, is expected to be the last album on which former frontman Furler will sing.

The street date for the album is May 5.

Christian Music News Source

As a late addition, Newsboys bring new face to Spirit West Coast

2009-05-20T20:14:00.000-07:00

DEL MAR, Calif. — Everything is coming up new at this year’s Spirit West Coast. The Newsboys, a mainstay at the annual Memorial Day weekend event, are a new, late addition after a previous scheduling conflict. And this year, they take the stage with a new sound and a new face as former dcTalk frontliner Michael Tait joins the band as lead vocalist.

Tait is a permanent replacement for lead singer Peter Furler who, after 22 years, has opted out of the grueling traveling schedule to concentrate on studio work and songwriting for the group.

“Newsboys is more than a band to me,” Furler said in a statement. “It is a group of people: men and women, husbands and wives, sons and daughters pooling together their gifts and talents, making many sacrifices, and believing that together we are all making a difference in telling the good news of the saving power of our Lord Jesus Christ to our generation. I am happy to say that this has not changed.

“I will continue on with the band as friend, songwriter, cheerleader and prayer partner.”

Those attending the May 22 to 24 festival at the Del Mar Fairgrounds will be among the first to experience the retooled group since the announcement was made in early March.

Although Tait played with the band for several weeks prior to the March 9 announcement, it shocked many in contemporary Christian music. The disclosure came without fanfare while Tait was leading the band at an Acquire the Fire event in Dallas.

“More than anything, over the last couple of weeks, we’ve really bonded as a band,” Newsboys drummer Duncan Phillips said in a video interview immediately after the concert and which the group posted on its Web site.

Tait called the transition the merger of two great Christian rock traditions with dcTalk and Newsboys.

“Mac Powell (of Third Day fame) said it best. It’s like merging McDonalds and Burger King together making it a super burger. We’re not sure what that burger is going to taste like just yet. We think the crowd ingested some of it tonight.”

Keyboard player Jeff Frankenstein said he expects the buzz to last for quite some time, a reward to those attending this year’s Spirit West Coast.

“It’s going to be a lot of fun for fans as we kinda get this thing rolling throughout the summer and at festivals and stuff. I think people are going to be curious to see how this whole thing works out,” he said, “We’re going to have a lot of fun.”

The addition of the Newsboys complements an already amazing lineup of Mercy Me, Relient K, Tobymac, Kutless, Needtobreathe, Family Force 5, Red, Todd Agnew, Flatfoot 56, Lincoln Brewster, Barlowgirl, Phil Wickham, Fireflight, Stellar Kart, A Current Affair, Project 86, Starfield, Josh Wilson, Above The Golden State, Addison Road, Wavorly, Ruth, Runkidrun, Seabird, Unspoken, The Wedding, Manic Drive, House of Heroes, Sarah Macintosh, Storyside B, Sleep For Sleepers, Sonflowerz and Richard Andrew.

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NEWSBOYS MEETS FAN FRED BARNES OF FOX NETWORK

2009-05-13T20:06:00.000-07:00

CAPTION: Inpop Records' newsboys greets Fred Barnes, FOX network co-host of "The Beltway Boys" and a regular contributor to "Special Report with Brit Hume," the No. 1 weeknight political program on cable, in Vero Beach, Fla. Sunday, April 26. Barnes and his wife flew from Washington, D.C. to attend the sold-out show on newsboys spring' "Join The Tribe" tour, wrapping early May. Pictured (l-r) are Jody Davis, Duncan Phillips and Michael Tait of newsboys, Fred Barnes, and newsboys' Jeff Frankenstein.

Christian Music News Source

Newsboys coming to sing at Stanislaus County Fair

2009-05-06T02:29:00.000-07:00

The Newsboys are delivering some good news: If you missed the Christian pop rock band's concert Sunday at Calvary Temple in Modesto, you can see the band perform Aug. 3 at the Stanislaus County Fair. And the show will be free.

The Dove Award-winning band is the latest group to be added to the fair's free concert lineup. The 2009 Stanislaus County Fair opens July 31 for a 10-day run.

Christian Music News Source

Newsboys Tour: Bethlehem, PA

2009-04-29T22:31:00.000-07:00

DecembeRadio on tour with the Newsboys in Bethlehem, PA (3/1/09)

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Newsboys Tour: Longview, TX

2009-04-22T22:30:00.000-07:00

DecembeRadio on tour with the Newsboys in Longview, TX (3/6/09)

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NEWSBOYS CLAIMS 25th NO. 1 SINGLE WITH “IN THE HANDS OF GOD”

2009-04-21T21:53:00.000-07:00

(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) April 16, 2009—Legendary, best-selling pop-rock band newsboys captured its 25th radio hit this week with “In The Hands of God,” according to the Radio & Records Christian AC Indicator chart. “In The Hands of God” is the title track to newsboys fourteenth studio project, releasing May 5, 2009.

“We’re thrilled that ‘In The Hands of God’ hit No 1,” says Jeff Frankenstein of newsboys. “It’s a song that means a lot to all of us. In times like these, it’s great to be reminded of God’s love for His children and to be encouraged that ultimately, He has everything under His control.”

“This is a great achievement for newsboys and marks a new era for the band,” adds newsboys manager Wes Campbell. “Whilst this is just one of many number one singles the band has received, they are all important to us, and we have great appreciation to all the radio stations out there that have continued to support both our music and passion for ministry.”

Produced by Max Hsu (Superchick, tobyMac) along with newsboys’ Peter Furler and Jeff Frankenstein, In The Hands of God boasts the classic rock sound that has made newsboys’ music legendary among Christian music fans for more than two decades. Featuring 10 hit songs, including “No Grave,” “The Way We Roll” and “Glorious,” the album additionally includes background vocals by Michael Tait of dc Talk, who last month stepped into the role of new frontman for newsboys. In The Hands of God, the last album on which Furler will sing, is an autobiographical record and a tribute to God’s divine providence over newsboys’ long-running career. The band is currently touring the new record on its 35-city “Join The Tribe” tour this spring. For the most up-to-date tour itinerary, visit www.myspace.com/newsboys.

With five gold albums, sales exceeding six million units, 25 No.1 radio hits, and a mantle of Dove Awards as well as Grammy nominations, newsboys has achieved phenomenal success in its two decades together. Known for its amazing live performances and groundbreaking tours, the band continues to sellout festivals and concerts worldwide, satisfying diehard fans and winning new ones in the process. For more information, visit http://www.newsboys.com/.

Founded in 1999, Inpop Records is home to a variety of artists including newsboys, Superchick, Shane & Shane and Mat Kearney, among others. For more information, visit http://www.inpop.com/.

Christian Music News Source

Newsboys

2009-04-15T22:29:00.000-07:00

Christian Music Rock

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Newsboys

2009-04-08T22:29:00.000-07:00

Christian Music Rock

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NEWSBOYS' PETER FURLER ADDRESSES FANS DIRECTLY ON HIS DEPARTURE

2009-04-08T02:27:00.000-07:00

Since the announcement was made almost three weeks about Newsboys front man Peter Furler bowing out of the band, no official statement regarding Furler's departure had been made. Finally, last night, Furler sent out this message to his friends and fans...

"Hello Friends,

Sorry for the delay in getting this brief statement out. As we say around the nb camp, “I’ve been flat out like a lizard drinking.” It’s been a busy time helping the lads with this transition, while at the same time finishing up the recording and mixing of the new CD in order to make the May 5th release date.

As you know, I have come to a decision that it is time to stop. I want to thank you for your prayers and encouragement! We have had many people write and call asking about my well-being. Thank you for your concern! I am happy to let you know that I am not dying of some sickness or disease, nor am I in some sort of moral or spiritual crisis (Glory To God!). There has been no band bust-up or punch-out! All is well! (Although now that I think of it, I did accidently render Duncan unconscious one time in a play fight minutes before a concert!) For me, the decision is that after traveling many thousands of miles across land and sea for over 22 years, along with needing to constantly keep writing and reach production deadlines–let alone feed my dog, It was time for something to give, and my booking agent and his GPS drew the short straw!

What are my plans you ask? Well, at the moment, they are to encourage the lads in this here “passing of the baton” to Michael, as well as to continue songwriting, and most importantly, for Summer and I to continue doing what we are all called to do–that is reach the people that come across our path with the Love and Spirit of Jesus.

I want to thank YOU! For you have always welcomed me, from the early days of criss-crossing the USA in a beat-up, old dodge van, to traveling in trains, planes, ferries, ships, (and of course the occasional motorbike) into some of the most amazing places on this planet! Let me think: Morocco, Israel, Asia, UK, Europe, Latin America, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South Africa, Russia and Uganda just to name a few. Seeing your faces and hearing you sing has blessed me. Again, many thanks!

Now, I need to ask you a favor. Please do the same for my friend, Michael Tait. Welcome him. Michael is a statesman in our industry, and he is who I have picked to carry on what I started as a teenager.

newsboys is more than a band to me. It is a group of people: men and women, husbands and wives, sons and daughters pooling together their gifts and talents, making many sacrifices, and believing that together we are all making a difference in telling the good news of the saving power of our Lord Jesus Christ to our generation. I am happy to say that this has not changed.

I will continue on with the band as friend, songwriter, cheerleader, and prayer partner.

Please enjoy the new CD, In The Hands of God. We poured our souls into it. I sang at the top of my lungs! It is for you!

Love and Peace,

Peter Furler

March 2009"

Christian Music News Source

Newsboys Stay Strong

2009-04-01T22:26:00.000-07:00

Newsboys with Michael Tait singing Stay Strong in Redlands CA March 20th 09

Christian Music News Source

MICHAEL TAIT TO JOIN NEWSBOYS

2009-03-25T22:08:00.000-07:00

(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) March 9, 2009— After 22 years and more than 2000 shows, newsboys frontman Peter Furler will no longer front the band in concert. Michael Tait will be touring with the band as lead singer with Peter making special appearances throughout the year.

Peter will continue with the band and his trademark songwriting and production will remain as he focuses his professional career toward future newsboys recordings.

Michael has been on the road with the band over the past weeks working alongside Peter in what has been a positive and enjoyable experience for both parties. It has been a graceful process that both Peter and Michael have worked through as they prepare to make the change in the coming weeks.

Peter states “newsboys to me has always been a mission, and I entrust Mike, Jeff, Jody and Duncan to continue all that is in store for us as a band. I’m looking forward to focusing on the band’s studio career and spending time in my own bed after many years in a tour bus and hundreds of thousands of miles on the road.”

Wes Campbell, newsboys manager explains, “While the decision to replace Peter on the road was a painstaking one, when the idea of dc Talk vocalist Michael Tait was presented it was a no-brainer to all of us. No one can replace Peter, but we know Michael will bring a new attitude, energy and vocal style that will thrill our audience. To be able to continue a world class show and still have Peter behind the scenes guiding the career and making of newsboys music is a huge opportunity for all of us. It’s amazing that after many years of touring with dc Talk in the 1990s that in 2009 our paths would cross once again. It’s an exciting time for all of us.”

“For years, dc Talk and newsboys have been family and thus shared the same loyal and adoring fans, says Michael Tait. “When I received the initial call from newsboys to consider joining the band as lead singer, I was speechless! I immediately sought wise counsel and flooded the heavens with endless prayers for insight and vision, and I soon received a clear and definite peace. Last weekend, I had the opportunity to perform my first show as newsboys’ frontman to an audience of 12,000 people. I was completely wrapped in love and support by newsboys’ fans, who are clearly the best fans on the planet. Now I know this is exactly where I belong in this new and wonderful moment in my life’s history. This is a definite highlight of my career and for my 20+ years of walking with Jesus, and I am humbled, proud and privileged to call myself a newsboy.”

In the coming days Peter will be releasing a personal statement on the band’s website in more detail.

The band has recently finished recording its new studio album, In The Hands Of God, which features Peter as lead vocalist on the entire album. Street date for this record is May 5th.

With five gold albums, sales exceeding six million units, more than 20 No.1 radio hits, and a mantle of Dove Awards as well as Grammy nominations, newsboys has achieved phenomenal success in its two decades together. Known for its amazing live performances and groundbreaking tours, the band continues to sellout festivals and concerts worldwide, satisfying diehard fans and winning new ones in the process.

Christian Music News Source

Newsboys still shine after almost 25 years

2009-03-18T23:04:00.000-07:00

It's quite an accomplishment that Christian pop-rock band Newsboys are headed for its 25th anniversary in 2010.

But consider that contemporary Christian music is barely 40 years old, and that gives them Rolling Stones-like status in the genre.

The difference is that Newsboys still are topping the charts and releasing new music -- and people are buying it.

The band's last album, 2006's ''Go,'' was its fastest-selling ever. A new single, ''In The Hands of God,'' the title song from the forthcoming follow-up disc, was among its fastest-rising ever on the charts when released last month.

So how -- after 17 albums (six gold, producing nearly 25 No. 1 Christian radio hits) and four Grammy Award and more than a dozen Dove Award nominations -- does Newsboys do it?

''Smoke and mirrors, mate, smoke and mirrors,'' drummer Duncan Phillips says with a hardy laugh in a recent telephone call from Nashville, where the Australian-native band now calls home, and where the band was putting finishing touches on the album and preparing for a tour that Sunday brings them to Bethlehem's Stabler Arena.

Actually, that's not too far from the truth: The band's concerts often are rock-style shows with stage smoke and confetti cannons. But Phillips follows his chuckle with his true answer.

''You know what? I think ultimately it's about the music and I think what we've always tried to do is try to write the best records we can possibly write,'' he says. ''I think you must be aware of what's happening around you, but you can't get too kind of tied up in the fad of the moment because if you jump on that bandwagon, when that fad dies, so will you.

''I mean I've always been very proud of the Newsboys 'cause they've really had their own sound. They've never been, 'Well, if you like this band, you're gonna like these guys.' Â… I'm really proud of the fact that we do have our own sound; we really don't sound like anybody else.''

That's not to say Newsboys have not had diversions over the years. Like The Rolling Stones, they dabbled in disco on 1999's ''Love, Liberty, Disco,'' and even had a hit, ''Beautiful Sound.'' And the two records before ''Go'' -- 2003's ''Adoration: The Worship Album'' and 2004's ''Devotion'' -- saw them explore worship music, and were among their most successful. ''Adoration'' got a Grammy nomination and produced a single, ''He Reigns,'' that stayed in the Top 20 on Christian adult contemporary radio more than six months.

But through it all, they've retained their distinguishable sound, and returned to rock and pop for ''Go.'' Phillips says that will continue on ''In The Hands of God,'' now due out May 5.

''I think if you liked the 'Go' record, you'll like this one,'' he says. ''The 'Go' record was pretty much a pop record in my mind -- it was pretty poppy. This one definitely has that as well, but it's maybe a little tougher. Â… I think when you've been in the band and you write songs, you've got basically the same group of guys for that amount of time, you really do develop your own flavor, not matter what you do, you develop your own style.''

That's also not to say that in its long history, Newsboys haven't had personnel changes. In fact, the number of switches in the band -- once a quintet, now a quartet -- now number 10, including a change from frontman John James to iconic, bald Peter Furler in 1997. Furler's the band's only original member, though Phillips has been a member since 1993 and keyboardist Jeff Frankenstein since 1994. The latest change saw guitarist Paul Coleman leave to resume his solo career, and be replaced by returning guitarist Jody Davis, a member 1993-2003 before leaving for family concerns.

''Jody coming back, I think, is just a fantastic opportunity -- for him, just to do something that he loves to do, but for us, as well. It's great to have an old friend back. Â… A lot of fans have been with us so many years, I think they'll really appreciate seeing Jody back on stage again.''

When it comes down to it, Phillips says, those fans are the real reason Newsboys have been successful for so long.

''Our fans are the best,'' he says. ''I mean, some fans we met as kids, 20 years ago. And now they've got grown-up families of their own and they're bringing their kids. So we've just got this incredible fans base that have been so loyal.''

And the other reason, Phillips says, is the spiritual connection that Newsboys offers.

''When they come to a Newsboys show, it's more than just music,'' he says. ''Definitely it really touches them deep down inside. It's one of those things -- hopefully it's more of a spiritual experience than just music. I think when we can touch spirits, when you make a real connection, I think people want more of that, and they really kind of believe in the band.''

john.moser@mcall.com

Christian Music News Source

The Festiva Interview: newsboys

2009-03-12T21:44:00.000-07:00

In shady bars and smoky nightclubs back in 1985 Australia, a band was attempting to breathe hope into those souls who needed it. They brought their message of peace and love to anyone who would listen. Today, not much has changed for the Christian rock band newsboys - except the venues they play, for much larger audiences and all over the world.

Peter Furler, who began as the band's drummer and is now the lead vocalist, is the only remaining original member of newsboys. The band is notorious for having new members for almost each album release. The current line-up includes Duncan Phillips on drums, Jody Davis playing lead guitar and Jeff Frankenstein, who switches between bass and keyboard.

The band hit its stride in the mid-‘90s with songs like "Let It Rain", "Shine", "Reality", "God Is Not a Secret" and more. The stride continues even with the various member changes in the band. Beyond producing number one hits, best-selling albums and playing packed arenas, the boys have collected a fair number of awards. Nearly two dozen Dove award nominations and four wins, four Grammy nominations and various others from organizations such as Billboard, Nashville Music Awards and International Angel Awards, the band remains humble and still keep spreading the Christian message to people.

Each member has their own story to tell about how he became a member of newsboys. Frankenstein talked to Festiva about his journey, the Global Tribe Project and more.

Christian Music News Source

Welcome back Newsboys – after 10 long years

2009-03-12T21:39:00.000-07:00

HARD to believe we haven’t seen the Newsboys in this area for 10 years. Obviously far too long, as tickets for their ‘Join the Tribe’ tour stop in Abbotsford sold out very quickly.

I caught up with drummer Duncan Philips, as the band prepared to embark on this tour with a ‘new’ lead guitar player.

Paul Coleman left, after three years. Philips explained: “Paul was a great new breath of life and a great friend; but he wanted to pursue his [solo] music. Its hard to see him go, but kind of exciting welcoming back Jody – who never really left our hearts.”

Jody Davis had been with the band from 1993 to 2003 before choosing to leave the group to care for his daughter, Bethany, who has cerebral palsy.

The tour name comes from the band’s involvement with Global Tribe, in its quest to fight physical and spiritual poverty. I asked Philips about the ministry.

“I’ve been touring with the band for 16 years now, and you start to think about your legacy. We want to use our platform to do more than just play music. As Christians, we should be reaching out to the poor and sick . . . A lot of Christians in the church have forgotten about that.”

The tour will introduce fans to music from the Newsboys’ forthcoming 15th studio release, In the Hands of God – scheduled in stores May 5. I asked Philips what we could expect from the new album.

“If you like Go, you will definitely like this album . . . although it is a little edgier and rocks a bit more.”

He confirmed that Christian music legend Steve Taylor contributed to the songwriting.

“When we were 90 percent there on a song, Steve would come in and help finish the song with that perfect lyric. His input was great . . . he’s a great friend.”

Asked what we can expect to hear in concert, Philips was a little elusive, as the musicians were still in rehearsals. But he confirmed that the new album’s title song would be on the setlist, along with many of their No. 1 hits.

“We would be hearing from people if we did not play songs like ‘Breakfast,’ ‘Shine’ and ‘He Reigns,” Philips concluded.

This Newsboys concert is more like a mini touring festival, featuring three opening acts: up-and-coming rock/worship band Bread of Stone; pop-rock trio VOTA, formed by one-time Newsboys lead guitarist Bryan Olesen; and Dove-winning, Grammy-nominated rockers Decemberadio.

I spoke with the latter band’s lead guitarist, Brian Bunn, to ask how they prepared for their second album, Satisfied.

“We knew going in that we wanted to record songs that translated well live . . . We learned a lot touring over the past five years, and what fans were into at our shows.”

Christianity Today placed Satisfied at #10 on their Best Christian Albums of 2008 list, writing: “This is a rock lover’s album, clearly descended from southern-flavored bands like Lynyrd Skynyrd and The Black Crowes, as well as the classic pop-metal of Petra.”

Asked how it felt to be compared to these respected bands, Bunn said: “It’s pretty cool . . . to get this kind of comparison, and to know that people like the album . . . But really, when we were in the studio, we knew that we were doing it for God – and that was enough.”

Bunn confirmed the band will play both hard rock radio hits like ‘Believer,’ and ballads such as ‘For Your Glory.’

Christian Music News Source

Newsboys to perform in Longview Friday

2009-03-12T21:38:00.000-07:00

LONGVIEW — Newsboys will bring its "Join the Tribe" 35-city tour concert to Longview Friday as they perform in the S.E. Belcher Jr. Chapel of LeTourneau University, 2100 S. Mobberly Ave., at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $28, $23, $18, and $13.

Joining them on the tour are DecembeRadio, VOTA and Bread of Stone.

The tour will support Global Tribe in its quest to fight physical and spiritual poverty. The tour will also introduce fans to new music from Newsboys forthcoming 15th studio release, which will be in stores May 5. Their debut single is, "In the Hands of God.

The tour also marks the return of long-time guitarist Jody Davis, who has rejoined the band after a five-year hiatus.

Davis will replace Paul Colman who has retired from the band to pursue his solo career. "I am thrilled to be returning to the band and back with my bandmates, who are some of my best friends," Davis was quoted in a press release as saying. "This is a big change in my life, and I'm looking forward to the tour and new record with excitement."

With five gold albums, sales exceeding 6 million units, more than 20 No. 1 radio hits, and a mantle of Dove Awards as well as Grammy nominations, Newsboys has achieved phenomenal success in its two decades together. Known for its amazing live performances and groundbreaking tours, the band continues to sellout festivals and concerts worldwide, satisfying diehard fans and winning new ones in the process. Visit the Web site, www.newsboys.com.

Christian Music News Source

Newsboys Readies Fourteenth Studio Album, In The Hands Of God

2009-03-11T22:52:00.000-07:00

May 5 Project Makes Debut on Sold-Out Spring Tour

Legendary, best-selling pop-rock band newsboys prepares for the release of its fourteenth studio project, In The Hands of God, releasing May 5, 2009. The group is currently debuting music from its forthcoming record on the sell-out "Join The Tribe" spring tour.

Produced by Max Hsu (Superchick, tobyMac) along with newsboys' Peter Furler and Jeff Frankenstein, In The Hands of God boasts the classic rock sound that has made newsboys' music legendary among Christian music fans for more than two decades. Featuring 10 hit songs, including "No Grave," "My Friend Jesus" and "Glorious," the album additionally includes background vocals by Michael Tait of dc Talk and Jamie Rowe of Guardian. In The Hands of God, as Furler explains, is an autobiographical record and a tribute to God's divine providence over newsboys' long-running career.

In The Hands of God is already being embraced by radio with the debut single and title track, currently at No.10 on Radio & Records' Adult Contemporary Indicator chart, No. 16 at AC Monitored, and No. 15 at CHR in only one month's time. The single was released to iTunes on February 24 and rose to No. 4 on iTunes' Top Christian Songs chart in less than 24 hours.

"'In The Hands Of God' is a song that needs to be heard in times like these, and the success the song is seeing at radio and digitally sets a great precedent for the record," says Shara Katerberg, director of marketing for Inpop Records. "Given the current state of our economy, everyone is dealing with hardship, and In The Hands Of God is an album that reminds us that God was, is, and will always be in control."

Fans attending newsboys' spring "Join The Tribe" tour have responded enthusiastically as well; the 35-city tour, which kicked off Feb. 19, has already sold out six dates, including upcoming shows in Manheim, Pa., Scranton, Pa., and Longview, Texas. The tour marks the return of longtime guitarist Jody Davis and will hit cities across North America through the end of April, including Los Angeles, Atlanta, Miami, Toronto and Vancouver.

Fans will also have the unique opportunity to take the tour home with them. High quality live recordings and original photos from each show will be available to download for $9.99. To learn more about the official bootlegs, visit live.newsboys.com For the most up-to-date tour itinerary, visit www.myspace.com/newsboys.

With five gold albums, sales exceeding six million units, more than 20 No.1 radio hits, and a mantle of Dove Awards as well as Grammy nominations, newsboys has achieved phenomenal success in its two decades together. Known for its amazing live performances and groundbreaking tours, the band continues to sellout festivals and concerts worldwide, satisfying diehard fans and winning new ones in the process. For more information, visit http://www.newsboys.com/.

Christian Music News Source

newsboys' Christian songs rock

2009-03-04T23:07:00.000-08:00

REVIEW: Concert

This time, they didn't come onto the stage on motorcycles.

Nor did they arrive via friendly Martian spacecraft, as they did on one tour, and they left the spacesuits from that tour at home.

But what newsboys (they officially lower-case the band name now) did bring with them to Lancaster County on Friday night was an energy-filled, powerful and wide-ranging show.

The band has always been fun-loving and stunt-loving, even as it has turned out some of the best contemporary Christian music of the past 20 years. Playing before 2,350 at a sold-out LCBC (known until recently as Lancaster County Bible Church, now Lives Changed By Christ), the four-man outfit offered a catchy, traditional rock sound you'd expect at the most popular summer stadium show, along with moving, powerful testimonies that reminded you this is a Christian rock group you're hearing.

Clad all in black, singer Peter Furler, drummer Duncan Phillips, guitarist Jody Davis and drummer Jeff Frankenstein hit the crowd with their best shots right away … the catchy, funk-filled "Wherever We Go," the lesser-known but still excellent and driving "The Mission," the well-known hit "Something Beautiful."

But they were just warming up. After the somber-then-powerful worship-music staple "Blessed Be Your Name," they did their huge hit "He Reigns" with a harder-edged guitar sound than on the studio version, and offered a moving version of the uplifting and encouraging "Stay Strong."

When it came time to do their megahits "Shine" and "Breakfast," two of the best-known Christian contemporary songs ever, Furler could have stepped away from the microphone if he'd wanted to, because the whole crowd, on both the lower level and upper deck of the sprawling church, knew all the words.

For a band that started more than 20 years ago, newsboys still pack an amazing level of energy into a show.

Kristen Greenwood of Lancaster and her 11-year-old son, David, had seen the band before, in Hershey during the "Go!" tour. As impressed as they were by the concert, Greenwood said, "It was even cooler to watch my son completely captivated" by the band's message to go reach the hurting around the world.

Also performing during Friday's three-hour show were two openings acts, hard-rock band Bread of Stone and VOTA, once known as Casting Pearls.

Both were good in the short time they had, but of the two, VOTA played a longer set and was perhaps more polished. The band changed its name to avoid confusion with the well-known Christian band Casting Crowns.

E-mail: doconnor@lnpnews.com

Christian Music News Source

Newsboys set to release 'In The Hands Of God' CD

2009-03-04T23:00:00.000-08:00

BEST SELLING pop rock band Newsboys will release their 14th studio album 'In The Hands Of God' in May. Produced by Max Hsu (Superchick, Toby Mac) along with Newsboys' Peter Furler and Jeff Frankenstein, 'In The Hands Of God' features 10 songs including "No Grave", "My Friend Jesus" and "Glorious". Providing background vocals on the project are Michael Tait of dc Talk and Jamie Rowe of Guardian. The title track from the album is already gaining major US radio play. Said Shara Katerberg, director of marketing for Inpop Records, "'In The Hands Of God' is a song that needs to be heard in times like these, and the success the song is seeing at radio and digitally sets a great precedent for the record. Given the current state of our economy, everyone is dealing with hardship and 'In The Hands Of God' is an album that reminds us that God was, is, and will always be in control."

Christian Music News Source

Newsboys: Take Me to Your Leader

2009-03-04T08:25:00.000-08:00

Oldschool Newsboys music videos #2

Christian Music News Source

Newsboys - I Am Free LIVE

2009-02-25T22:45:00.000-08:00

Christian Music News Source

TAKE THE NEWSBOYS "JOIN THE TRIBE" TOUR HOME WITH YOU!

2009-02-25T10:35:00.000-08:00

Newsboys are excited to announce that fans will now be able to download a high quality live recording and original pictures of EVERY concert on the Join The Tribe Tour!

Starting with the first show on February 19th in Frederick, MD, visit http://live.newsboys.com to purchase the official bootlegs for $9.99!*

*All package elements will be available for download within 7 days after the show.

Join The Tribe Tour
2.19 - Frederick, MD
2.20 - Salisbury, MD
2.21 - Woodbridge, VA
2.22 - Williamsport, PA
2.23 - Wildwood, NJ
2.27 - Manheim, PA
2.28 - Scranton, PA
3.01 - Bethlehem, PA
3.05 - Texarkana, AR
3.06 - Longview, TX
3.08 - Hidalgo, TX
3.12 - Knoxville, TN
3.17 - Highlands Ranch, CO
3.19 - Bakersfield, CA
3.20 - Redlands, CA
3.21 - Los Angeles, CA
3.22 - Modesto, CA
3.23 - Redding, CA
3.25 - Eugene, OR
3.26 - Wenatchee, WA
3.28 - Abbotsford, BC
4.05 - London, ON
4.06 - Toronto, ON
4.07 - Ottawa, QC
4.17 - Minot, ND
4.18 - Brainerd, NM
4.19 - Fargo, ND
4.26 - Vero Beach, FL

Visit newsboys.com for more tour dates.

Christian Music News Source

Fans offered chance to purchase Newsboys live concert downloads

2009-02-25T10:32:00.000-08:00

FOLLOWING the latest trend for rock music big-hitters, the Newsboys have announced that fans will be able to purchase high quality downloads of live recordings and original pictures of every concert on the band's Join The Tribe Tour. The tour kicked off in Frederick, Maryland on 19th February. Official bootlegs from http://live.newsboys.com will cost $9.99.

Christian Music News Source

Newsboys kick of "Join The Tribe" tour in February

2009-02-18T18:29:00.000-08:00

On February 20, the newsboys will kicks off their 35-city "Join The Tribe" tour, featuring DecembeRadio, VOTA (formerly known as Casting Pearls), and Bread of Stone. Also on the tour is Jody Davis, who has re-joined newsboys after a five-year hiatus.

The tour will support Global Tribe in its quest to fight physical and spiritual poverty.

The newsboys are releasing their 15th studio studio album, In The Hands of God, in May. The first single and title track from the album will hit radio stations at the end of January.

For tour dates and information, visit the newsboys website.

Christian Music News Source

Newsboys Call on Fans to 'Join The Tribe'

2009-02-18T18:27:00.000-08:00

Award-winning Christian band newsboys will kick off the New Year with their 35-city "Join The Tribe" tour next month, joined by DecembeRadio, VOTA, and Bread of Stone.

Kicking off on Feb. 20, the tour will support the faith-based ministry Global Tribe (www.globaltribe.com) in its quest to fight physical and spiritual poverty. The tour will also introduce fans to new music from newsboys' upcoming fifteenth studio release, which hits stores May 5, including the album’s title track and debut single, "In The Hands Of God," which will vie for adds at both AC and CHR radio beginning Jan. 23.

Running through mid-April, the "Join The Tribe" tour also marks the return of long-time guitarist Jody Davis, who will return after a five-year hiatus to replace outgoing guitarist Paul Coleman.

"I am thrilled to be returning to the band and back with my bandmates, who are some of my best friends," said Davis, who was a member of the band from 1993 to 2003. "This is a big change in my life, and I’m looking forward to the tour and new record with excitement."

Coleman, who played guitar with newsboys the last three years, will be continuing his solo career and performing shows nationwide in 2009.

Christian Music News Source

NEWSBOYS CALL ON FANS TO “JOIN THE TRIBE” THIS SPRING

2009-02-11T18:26:00.000-08:00

(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) Jan. 16, 2009—Award-winning supergroup newsboys kicks off 2009 with its 35-city “Join The Tribe” tour in February featuring DecembeRadio, VOTA, and Bread of Stone. Also on the tour is Jody Davis, who has re-joined newsboys after a five-year hiatus.

Kicking off on Feb. 20, the tour will support Global Tribe (www.globaltribe.com) in its quest to fight physical and spiritual poverty. The tour will also introduce fans to new music from newsboys forthcoming fifteenth studio release in stores May 5, 2009, including the album’s title track and debut single, “In The Hands Of God,” which will vie for adds at both AC and CHR radio beginning Jan. 23.

Running through mid-April, the “Join The Tribe” tour also marks the return of long-time guitarist Jody Davis to newsboys. Davis will replace Paul Colman who has retired the band to pursue his solo career. “I am thrilled to be returning to the band and back with my bandmates, who are some of my best friends,” says Davis. “This is a big change in my life, and I’m looking forward to the tour and new record with excitement.” For the most up-to-date tour itinerary, www.myspace.com/newsboys.

With five gold albums, sales exceeding six million units, more than 20 No.1 radio hits, and a mantle of Dove Awards as well as Grammy nominations, newsboys has achieved phenomenal success in its two decades together. Known for its amazing live performances and groundbreaking tours, the band continues to sellout festivals and concerts worldwide, satisfying diehard fans and winning new ones in the process. For more information, visit http://www.newsboys.com/.

Classic rock band DECEMBERADIO has been making headlines since its debut initially hit the shelves, garnering a GRAMMY ® nomination, a DOVE Award win for Rock Album of the Year, three DOVE nominations and several hits including Song of the Year nominee “Drifter.” The band’s recent sophomore release was named one of the Top 10 Critics Pick Albums of the Year by ChristianityToday, CCM Magazine and The Gospel Music Channel. DECEMBERADIO is known for their rousing stage performances and gutsy, guitar expertise. Whether opening a NASCAR event with songs like “Dangerous” or filling the AC radio airwaves with hit ballads such as “Find You Waiting,” the foursome has brought a defining sound and energy to the world of Christian music.

Formerly known as Casting Pearls, VOTA is Bryan Olesen, Case Maranville and Scott Rutz. This pop-rock band has had a busy year signing with INO Records and releasing their new self-titled album digitally. Now they are preparing to release VOTA to all stores nationwide on Feb. 10, 2009. Produced by Nathan Dantzler (Relient K, Audio Adrenaline, Tree63) the 11-track album exerts high-energy artistic sounds, taking cues from the players’ previous alternative dichotomy and adding dance elements influenced by dance poppers Maroon 5 to ethereal rockers Augustana.

With a unique blend of rock, pop, and worship, Bread of Stone (BOS) is a Christian band based out of Sioux City, Iowa with a sound all their own. Coming from Indonesia, the largest Muslim country in the world, Bread of Stone was formed by two brothers Ben (vocals) and Bill Kristijanto (guitar) and later joined by friends, Jeremi Hough (drums) and Tim Barnes (bass) When asked about the significance of the name “Bread of Stone," they state we are all merely stones that God turns into bread to feed the hungry and that without Him, no one can accomplish good in this downfallen world.

Christian Music News Source

newsboys Video Podcast Episode 10

2009-02-04T09:16:00.000-08:00

Christian Music News Source

Former Guitarist Returns to Christian Band newsboys

2009-01-28T11:39:00.000-08:00

After a five-year hiatus, a longtime member of Christian band newsboys has returned, replacing outgoing guitarist Paul Coleman who moved on with his solo career.

"I am thrilled to be returning to the band and back with my bandmates, who are some of my best friends," said Jody Davis, who was a member of the band from 1993 to 2003. "This is a big change in my life, and I'm looking forward to the tour and new record with excitement."

As a member, Davis had contributed to many of newsboys' greatest hits, including "Shine," "Entertaining Angels," and "It is You." In 2003, however, he had to take time off to care for his daughter, Bethany, who has cerebral palsy.

Regarding Davis' return, Peter Furler, lead vocalist for newsboys, expressed his excitement, noting how much the band had missed Davis.

"Jody is like a brother to all of us, and we have missed him greatly over the last five years," he said in a statement. "It's going to be great to have him back with us."

Meanwhile, Paul Colman, who played guitar with newsboys the last three years, will be continuing his solo career and performing shows nationwide in 2009.

"My three years with newsboys were among the best of my life," he stated. "I learned an immeasurable amount about music, ministry, and life, and am happy to say I left with all our friendships wonderfully intact.

"I always was and always will be one of newsboys' biggest fans," he added. "I am very excited about the return of Jody Davis!"

Davis' return comes months ahead the release of newsboys' next title track and debut single "In The Hands Of God," which will hit stores May 5. It also comes a month before the band is set to embark on a 30-city tour with special guests DecembeRadio, Vota, and Bread of Stone.

The tour, "Join the Tribe," will kick off Feb. 12 in Frederick, Md., and conclude Apr. 26. It is being sponsored by Global Tribe, an organization devoted to meeting the physical and spiritual needs of the poor throughout the world.

Christian Music News Source

Phil Joel from Newsboys on Real Videos

2009-01-21T11:51:00.000-08:00

Christian Music News Source

NEWSBOYS ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF LONG-TIME GUITARIST JODY DAVIS

2009-01-14T09:45:00.000-08:00

(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) Jan. 5, 2009— Guitarist Jody Davis returns to newsboys after a five-year hiatus. Davis, who was a member of the band from 1993-2003, contributed to many of newsboys’ greatest hits like “Shine,” “Entertaining Angels,” and “It is You.” In 2003, he took time off to care for his daughter, Bethany, who has cerebral palsy.

“I am thrilled to be returning to the band and back with my bandmates, who are some of my best friends,” says Davis. “This is a big change in my life, and I’m looking forward to the tour and new record with excitement.”

Peter Furler, lead vocalist for newsboys, is also excited about Davis’ return. “Jody is like a brother to all of us, and we have missed him greatly over the last five years. It’s going to be great to have him back with us.”

Paul Colman, who played guitar with newsboys the last three years, will be continuing his solo career and performing shows nationwide in 2009. “My three years with newsboys were among the best of my life. I learned an immeasurable amount about music, ministry, and life, and am happy to say I left with all our friendships wonderfully intact. I always was and always will be one of newsboys' biggest fans. I am very excited about the return of Jody Davis!”

newsboys will release the title track and debut single, “In The Hands Of God,” from its forthcoming May 5, 2009 project to both AC and CHR radio Jan. 16. The band will also embark on a 30-city “Join the Tribe” tour with special guests DecembeRadio, Vota, and Bread of Stone in February. Additional tour details are forthcoming. For more information, visit www.newsboys.com

Founded in 1999, Inpop Records is home to a variety of artists including newsboys, Superchick, Shane & Shane and Mat Kearney, among others. For more information, visit www.inpop.com.

Christian Music News Source

Christian Karaoke Game Upgrade Sets Stage for 6-Man Rock Bands

2009-01-07T08:28:00.000-08:00

A PC-compatible karaoke game featuring Christian music now has a free downloadable expansion pack that can allow up to six players to start their own Christian rock band.

The recently released JAMPpak for “Heavenly Harmony Gold” allows players to use their Xbox and Playstation 3 USB guitar and drum set controllers with their new PC-based Christian band game. By connecting the guitar and drum set to their Windows-based computer and launching JAMpak, players can jam and sing along with some of today’s top Christian songs.

"As leaders in the development of Christian gaming, we have been working diligently to give consumers the products they have asked for,” Curtis Ratica, president of Cloud 9, reported in an announcement last week.

“JAMpak is the first step in that direction,” he added, “and we are excited to give everyone a glimpse of what the future holds.”

The expansion pack follows the summer 2008 release of the “Gold” edition of Heavenly Harmony, which came out less than a year after the original.

In the game, players sing to their favorite tunes and are rated according to their accuracy with the games' pitch-recognition technology. As their singing skills improve, players unlock clothing options for their characters and move on to bigger and better performance venues. Mini-games further allow the player to improve their singing skills.

“Heavenly Harmony provides features never before found in any computer game, and the fact that it's a Christian-themed game makes it even more exciting,” Rica stated prior to the unveiling of the original game last year. “Never before has there been a singing game that offers the type of feedback this game provides.”

Since the release of the original Heavenly Harmony, Cloud 9 has come out with several expansion packs including “Christmas Classic,” with 20 Christmas songs and carols; “Christian Rock,” with popular Christian artists such as Kutless, Jeremy Camp, Audio Adrenaline, Sanctus Real, This Beautiful Republic and Falling Up; and most recently “Contemporary Christian,” which features songs from artists like Steven Curtis Chapman, David Crowder Band, Jeremy Camp, Chris Tomlin, Amy Grant, Avalon, ZoeGirl, Nicole Nordeman, tobyMac, Newsboys, and Stacie Orrico.

According to an announcement late last year, several more expansion packs may be in the works, including Modern Praise/Worship and Hymns/Gospel.

Christian Music News Source

Newsboys - It is You (live from El Salvador)

2008-12-24T09:32:00.000-08:00

Christian Music News Source

Front Row Live - Newsboys 2008 1

2008-12-03T15:27:00.000-08:00

Front Row Live - Newsboys 2008 1

Christian Music News Source

Newsboys balance celebrity status with grace and Christ-like responsibility

2008-11-26T16:25:00.000-08:00

In the discussion about Christian music, there's always a question lingering in the back of my mind: how do you balance being a Christian music

celebrity with biblical, Christian faith?

Sure, there are a lot of bands who sing about Jesus, and there are a lot of bands made up of Christians who offer great entertainment without a

specific faith message. But can an entertaining, top notch, mainstream-quality rock band be open and bold about their faith and still attract fans?

You better believe it, and one band that's been doing it for years is the Newsboys. Not only have they garnered multiple Dove Awards and

Grammy nominations, four RIAA certified Gold CDs, sold more than five million records, and scored 22 #1 radio hits, they're passionately dedicated

to sharing the gospel around the world.

Frontman Peter Furler has the ability to captivate the audience with his amazing vocals and dynamic stage presence, and then stand before a

crowd of thousands, who sit hushed in silence, as he passionately shares the truth about sin and redemption. I've seen it myself, and have

always been amazed at the band's dedication to offering quality entertainment and a no-nonsense approach to Christ. Furler speaks truth, and

does it in love and without any hesitation.

The band recently performed a "Reach" event in Tucson, Arizona at the Tucson Electric Park. The event was sponsored by Family Life Radio and

was open to the public and totally free of charge, offering a night of entertaining music as well as a solid presentation of the gospel.

One volunteer named Dale told me that an estimated 14,000 people were in attendance, with many coming forward to make commitments to Christ.

He said traffic was backed up on the interstate for miles and miles as people tried to get into the show.

I'm not surprised. The Newsboys put on one heck of a show, and if you can see it for free, and bring a friend who can hear about Jesus, it's

worth waiting in traffic to get in.

But what makes the Newsboys great isn't only what you see on stage. They're passionate about not just spreading the word of the gospel, but

also getting their hands dirty, from their work in with Baja Christian Ministries in Baja, Mexico building houses for the poor to their volunteer work

with Ethnographic Media, serving as a film crew for the making of the documentary "Miss HIV."

Even when the band can't actually share a gospel message during the show, they still are able to be godly light to the world. "We played a show

in Morocco not long ago for about 15,000 Muslims, and it was like something out of Indiana Jones," recalls Furler. "Snake charmers, people eating

eyeballs, etc. This is a place where the name of Jesus will get you killed! Nevertheless, His name went out subtly through our songs, and when it

did it was probably the loudest His name had been spoken there in ages. It's a dark place, for certain. But we were able to love these people by

just living with them for a few days. That's what it's about."

The band has focused attention on helping their fans not just hear about Jesus, but delve deeper in to a study of God's work, not just evangelizing

but making disciples.

All of which proves only one thing: Yes, Christians music artists can be celebrities, and when they handle that status with responsibility and

grace, they can reach the world with the gospel.

Chrisian Music News Source

Newsboys more than old boys' club

2008-11-26T16:23:00.000-08:00

COME rail, hail or shine, Bob Urquhart stood outside the Melbourne Town Hall and sold The Age. It was 1946 and he was just 12.

As one of seven children and with no father at home, he found the income handy, but the thing he thrived on was the social group connected with

it, the Newsboys Club.

Sixty-two years later, Mr Urquhart, 74, of Doncaster, is still a member of what has evolved into the philanthropic Newsboys Foundation. He was

at the Spiegeltent, outside the Victorian Arts Centre, yesterday to celebrate the foundation's 115th birthday.

The foundation has allocated more than $9 million in grants since the start of its charity focus — funding young people to reach their potential — in

1974.

But it had had a positive effect on Mr Urquhart long before then. "My young life was around the Newsboys Club," he said. The club's headquarters

at 109 Little Collins Street had a swimming pool, gyms, a library and a canteen. Members could do woodwork, play basketball or see a dentist.

The club was the basis of lifelong friendships, and even helped inspire his career. At 40 he changed his occupation from factory worker to

looking after problem and disadvantaged children.

A recent Newsboys Foundation grant recipient, Westside Circus, performed at yesterday's annual meeting. The circus aims to build confidence

and resilience among disadvantaged and at-risk young people.

Chrisian Music News Source

JOURNEY FEST 2008

2008-11-11T10:18:00.000-08:00

City of David opens for Newsboys. Benefit Concert for Sertoma Youth Ranch.

Christian Music News Source

Take Me To Your Leader

2008-11-06T22:15:00.000-08:00

Great Video From The Newsboys.

Christian Music News Source

Newsboys remix with sonic the hedgehog

2008-10-30T20:05:00.000-07:00

Christian Music News Source

n Christ Alone- NewsBoys (Passion of the Christ)

2008-10-22T20:52:00.000-07:00

TO show the love of Christ who suffered and died and rose on the 3rd day. For this world knowing people some would have careless or ignored him for what he did for them. But despite knowing all of that he loved us enough to laid his life for our sins.

Christian Music News Source

NEWSBOYS SHOUTFEST 08 NEW ORLEANS

2008-10-21T18:43:00.000-07:00

Christian Music News Source

Newsboys Capture Popular 'Go' Tour in New Project

2008-09-30T20:00:00.000-07:00

Popular Christian pop/rock group newsboys will be releasing a new CD/DVD project next week that captures their explosive sell-out “GO” tour, which ran from spring 2007 to spring 2008.

With an average audience of 3,000, the “GO” tour grossed $7 million and hit 95 cities, including Seattle, Minneapolis, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, and Dallas. In Houston, newsboys set a record with 8,800 attendants.

“The newsboys ‘GO’ tour was a true music spectacular, featuring production values never seen before in Christian music,” commented Dale Bray, president of the band’s label, Inpop, in an announcement. “The song list was a complete history of the band’s depth of number 1 songs along with the energy and showmanship we have grown to expect from this world class band. Capturing this performance in both audio and visual formats was a must.”

Band member Jeff Frankenstein (keyboards) also expressed how much the band wanted to capture their “GO” tour.

“We felt on every level, this was our strongest tour to date, and we wanted to capture it,” Frankenstein expressed in a news release.

“Every night they turned out in droves and we had a great time,” he added.

Like the other band members, Frankenstein credits the fans with making the tour exceptional.

“The newsboys fan base is so diverse, from 3 to 93, different ethnic, economic, denominational and religious backgrounds. We have been fortunate to have the opportunity to grow up with our audience,” he stated.

With five gold albums, sales exceeding six million units, more than 20 No. 1 radio hits, and a mantle of Dove Awards as well as Grammy nominations, newsboys has achieved phenomenal success in its near two decades together.

Known for its amazing live performances and groundbreaking tours, newsboys continues to sell out festivals and concerts worldwide, satisfying diehard fans and winning new ones in the process. The band's fourteenth record, “GO,” debuted at No. 51 on the Billboard Top 200 chart after its Oct. 31, 2006 release.

In addition to showcasing hits from the current release, “GO,” the soon-to-be-released CD/DVD includes classic newsboys tunes “Shine,” “Breakfast,” “He Reigns” and “It Is You.”

The “newsboys live: Houston We Are Go” track listing includes:
1. Shine
2. Wherever We Go
3. The Mission
4. Something Beautiful
5. Blessed Be Your Name
6. Stay Strong
7. Amazing Love
8. Entertaining Angels
9. He Reigns
10. Breakfast
11. Your Love Is Better Than Life
12. Drum Solo
13. I Am Free
14. Peter’s Testimony

Christian Music News Source

The Big Fresno Fair Opening Wednesday

2008-09-30T19:59:00.000-07:00

The Big Fresno Fair comes to town for thirteen fun filled days on Wednesday, October 1st. CBS 47 This Morning will bring you live updates from the Big Fresno Fair every morning between 5am and 7am.

Last minute preparations are under as the Fresno Fair gets ready to open. Wednesday is opening day and the fair runs through Monday, October 13th. This year’s theme at the fair is “big times are back!”

There are plenty of things to look forward to; including new attractions for the kids in the Table Mountain Rancheria Park.

The Paul Paul Theater will rock each and every night with live concerts including; Chicago, Pepper, Gretchen Wilson, Doodlebops, Sean Kingston & Baby Bash, Jenni Rivera, Earth, Wind & Fire, Newsboys, Average White Band & Tower of Power, Smokey Robinson, Randy Travis, Demi Lovato, Lloyd, The Dream & Colby O’Donis, Pepe Aguilar and Bret Michaels with Great White.

Christian Music News Source

International Supergroup Newsboys Releases Live CD/DVD

2008-09-19T11:48:00.000-07:00

Houston Stop of the Wildly Successful 'GO' Tour Captured Live

International pop/rock phenomenon newsboys captures the best of its explosive sell-out “GO” tour on the new CD/DVD project newsboys live: Houston We Are Go, releasing

Sept. 30 on Inpop Records.

Filmed and recorded in Houston during the third leg of the “GO” tour this past spring, newsboys live: Houston We Are Go takes the band’s wildly successful tour and commits it

to tape. “We felt on every level, this was our strongest tour to date, and we wanted to capture it,” says band member Jeff Frankenstein (keyboards).

The band credits the fans with making the tour exceptional. “The newsboys fan base is so diverse, from 3 to 93, different ethnic, economic, denominational and religious

backgrounds. We have been fortunate to have the opportunity to grow up with our audience. From the times we played high school auditoriums in the ’80s to arenas in 2008.

Every night they turned out in droves and we had a great time,” he says.

Inpop President Dale Bray agrees, “The newsboys ‘GO’ tour was a true music spectacular, featuring production values never seen before in Christian music. The song list

was a complete history of the band’s depth of number 1 songs along with the energy and showmanship we have grown to expect from this world class band. Capturing this

performance in both audio and visual formats was a must.”

The 95-city groundbreaking “GO” tour ran from Spring 2007-Spring 2008 and boasted sold out shows on all three legs. With an average audience of 3000, setting a record in

Houston, TX where 8800 attended, the tour grossed seven million dollars, giving evidence that newsboys continues to innovate its live show and offer fans an entertainment

experience that changes lives. This live CD/DVD showcases hits from both the current release GO (“I Am Free,” “Wherever We Go,” “Something Beautiful”), as well as classic

newsboys tunes including “Shine,” “Breakfast,” “He Reigns” and “It Is You,” all from gold-selling albums.

The newsboys live: Houston We Are Go track listing includes:
1. Shine
2. Wherever We Go
3. The Mission
4. Something Beautiful
5. Blessed Be Your Name
6. Stay Strong
7. Amazing Love
8. Entertaining Angels
9. He Reigns
10. Breakfast
11. Your Love Is Better Than Life
12. Drum Solo
13. I Am Free
14. Peter’s Testimony

With five gold albums, sales exceeding six million units, more than 20 No.1 radio hits, and a mantle of Dove Awards as well as Grammy nominations, newsboys has achieved

phenomenal success in its near two decades together. Known for its amazing live performances and groundbreaking tours, the band continues to sellout festivals and

concerts worldwide, satisfying diehard fans and winning new ones in the process. newsboys fourteenth record, GO, debuted at No. 51 on the Billboard Top 200 chart. For

more information visit www.newsboys.com.

Founded in 1999 by newsboys frontman Peter Furler, artist manager Wes Campbell and Inpop President Dale Bray, Inpop Records is home to a variety of artists including

newsboys, Superchick, Shane & Shane and Mat Kearney, among others.

Christian Music News Source

Awards & Nominations

2008-09-19T09:38:00.000-07:00

Grammy Awards
* 1992 Nomination for Best Rock/Contemporary Gospel Album
o Not Ashamed
* 1994 Nomination for Best Rock Gospel Album
o Going Public
* 1996 Nomination for Best Rock Gospel Album
o Take Me to Your Leader
* 2003 Nomination for Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album
o Adoration: The Worship Album

Dove Awards
* 1994 Nomination for Short Form Music Video of the Year
o "I Cannot Get You Out of My System"
* 1995 Award for Rock Album of the Year
o Going Public
* 1995 Award for Rock Recorded Song of the Year
o "Shine"
* 1995 Nomination for Short Form Music Video of the Year
o "Shine"
* 1995 Nomination for Group of the Year
o Newsboys
* 1996 Nomination for Song of the Year
o "Shine"
* 1997 Award for Recorded Music Packaging of the Year
o Take Me to Your Leader
* 1997 Nomination for Rock Album of the Year
o Take Me to Your Leader
* 1997 Nomination for Rock Recorded Song of the Year
o "God Is Not a Secret"
* 1997 Nomination for Short Form Music Video of the Year
o "Take Me to Your Leader"
* 1999 Award for Short Form Music Video of the Year
o "Entertaining Angels"
* 1999 Nomination for Song of the Year
o "Entertaining Angels"
* 1999 Nomination for Rock Album of the Year
o Step Up to the Microphone
* 1999 Nomination for Group of the Year
o Newsboys
* 2000 Nomination for Long Form Music Video of the Year
o One Night in Pennsylvania
* 2001 Award for Special Event Album of the Year
o City on a Hill: Songs of Worship and Praise (Various Artists, including Peter Furler's "Unified")
* 2001 Nomination for Short Form Music Video of the Year
o "Love Liberty Disco"
* 2003 Nomination for Long Form Music Video of the Year
o Thrive: Live from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
* 2004 Nomination for Group of the Year
o Newsboys
* 2004 Nomination for Praise & Worship Album of the Year
o Adoration: The Worship Album
* 2004 Nomination for Song of the Year
o "He Reigns"
* 2004 Nomination for Worship Song of the Year
o "He Reigns"
* 2005 Nomination for Praise & Worship Album of the Year
o Devotion

Billboard Music Video Awards
* 1999 Award for Best CCM Video
o "Entertaining Angels"

Intl. Angel Awards
* 1995 Award for Video
o "Shine"
* 1999 Award for Video
o "Entertaining Angels"

Nashville Music Awards
* 1999 Award for Favorite CCM Album
o Step Up to the Microphone
* 2000 Nomination for Contemporary Christian Album of the Year
o Love Liberty Disco

SESAC Awards
* 2000 Award for Christian Songwriter of the Year
o Peter Furler

Christian Music Links!

Discography

2008-09-19T09:33:00.000-07:00

Studio albums
* 1988: Read All About It
* 1990: Hell Is for Wimps
* 1991: Boys Will Be Boyz
* 1992: Not Ashamed
* 1994: Going Public
* 1996: Take Me to Your Leader
* 1998: Step Up to the Microphone
* 1999: Love Liberty Disco
* 2002: Thrive
* 2003: Adoration: The Worship Album
* 2004: Devotion
* 2006: Go

Singles

Year	Single	Album	Hot Christian Songs Peak	Hot Christian AC Peak	Spins (since 1998) source: Mediabase
1988	I Got Your Number	Read All About It			4
1990	All I Can See	Hell Is for Wimps
1990	In the End
1990	Ten Thousand Miles
1991	Simple Man
1991	One Heart	Boys Will Be Boyz
1991	Kingdom Man
1991	Stay With Me
1991	Israel
1991	You and Me
1992	I'm Not Ashamed	Not Ashamed			17,002
1993	Where You Belong/Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus				835
1993	Upon This Rock
1993	I Cannot Get You Out of My System
1993	Strong Love				217
1993	Dear Shame
1994	Be Still	Going Public			1,452
1994	Shine				29,714
1995	Let It Rain				56
1995	Spirit Thing				2,353
1995	Real Good Thing				87
1995	Truth and Consequences				200
1995	Going Public				24
1995	Reality	Take Me to Your Leader			1,636
1996	Take Me to Your Leader				983
1996	Let It Go				716
1996	Breakfast				5,236
1997	Breathe (Benediction)				73
1997	It's All Who You Know				4
	God Is Not a Secret				120
	Cup O' Tea				6
1998	Entertaining Angels	Step Up to the Microphone			8,659
1998	Believe				2,945
1998	Step Up to the Microphone				480
1998	Woo Hoo				584
	Hallelujah				135
	Truth Be Known - Everybody Gets a Shot (video only)				7
1998	Shine 2000 (remix)	Entertaining Angels EP
1998	Not Ashamed (remix)	Entertaining Angels EP
1999	Love Liberty Disco	Love Liberty Disco			958
2000	Beautiful Sound				16,878
2000	I Surrender All / Good Stuff (released as a double A-side single, with the former geared towards AC radio, and the latter towards the CHR/Rock format, which ended up as the bigger hit)				90 ("I Surrender All") 253 ("Good Stuff")
2000	Joy	Shine: The Hits			24,573
2001	Mega-Mix				508
2001	Who?				5,897
	God Is Not a Secret (featuring TobyMac)				38
	Praises				161
2002	It Is You	Thrive			44,270
2002	Million Pieces (Kissin' Your Cares Goodbye)				32,744
2002	John Woo				78
2002	The Fad of the Land				5
2002	Giving It Over				5
2002	In the Belly of the Whale (featuring Steve Taylor)	Jonah: A VeggieTales Movie Soundtrack			49
2003	He Reigns	Adoration: The Worship Album	#4	#6	81,620
2003	You Are My King (Amazing Love)		#1	#1	70,503
2003	In Christ Alone
2003	Adoration (possibly not a radio single, but received enough airplay to make it on the charts during the Christmas season)		#34	#31	1,854
2004	Presence (My Heart's Desire)	Devotion	#4	#4	41,465
2004	Devotion		#16	#16	16,619
	Blessed Be Your Name (featuring Rebecca St. James)				363
	Strong Tower				97
2006	I Am Free (Live)	GO	#11	#11	18,235
2006	Wherever We Go		#3	#15	13,561
2007	Something Beautiful		#4 (#5 of 2007)^[4]	#6	25,448
2007	In Wonder		#4+	#5+	14,974
2008	Yo Ho Hero (featuring Steve Taylor)	The Pirates Who Don't Do Anything: A VeggieTales Movie Soundtrack
2008	Stay Strong	The Greatest Hits	#20+	#21+	27

Extended Plays

Year	Title	Label
1998	Entertaining Angels	Star Song
2003	8 Great Hits	Sparrow Records/EMI CMG
2006	GO EP	Inpop Records/EMI CMG

DVDs and Videos

Year	Title	Label
1991	Boys Will Be Boyz (NTSC/VHS)	Star Song
1993	Not Ashamed (NTSC/VHS)	Star Song
1996	Down Under the Big Top (NTSC/VHS)	Star Song
1999	Live One Night In Pennsylvania (NTSC/VHS)	Sparrow Records
2000	Shine: The Hits Live-One Night In Pennsylvania (DVD)	Sparrow Records
2002	Thrive: From The Rock 'N' Roll Hall of Fame (DVD)	Sparrow Records

Music videos

Year	Title
1990	"Simple Man"
1991	"One Heart" (shot at Cain's Ballroom in Tulsa, OK)
1991	"Kingdom Man"
1992	"I Cannot Get You Out of My System"
1993	"Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus (Where You Belong)"
1993	"Dear Shame"
1994	"Shine"
1996	"Take Me To Your Leader"
1998	"Entertaining Angels"
1999	"Love, Liberty, Disco"
2000	"Truth Be Known (Everybody Gets a Shot)"
2002	"Million Pieces"
2002	"In the Belly of the Whale" (for the Veggie Tales movie Jonah)
2003	"He Reigns"
2008	"Something Beautiful"

Christian Music Links!

Major Tours

2008-09-19T09:32:00.000-07:00

* GO Tour "Finale"(3rd and final installment of the GO Tour)w/ Rush Of Fools, Newworldson and Article One
* GO Tour "Encore" (2nd GO Tour with Kutless and Newworldson) (2007)
* GO Tour (2007) (with Kutless and Stellar Kart)
* Winter Jam Tour (2006)
* Adoration Tour (2004) (with Jeremy Camp and Rebecca St. James)
* Thrive-It's All In The Word Tour (2002) (with Superchick)
* Festival Con Dios (2001 & 2003)
* LoveLibertyDisco AirDome Tour (2000) (with SONICFLOOd and Beanbag)
* Step Up To The Microphone Tour (with Third Day) (1999)
* Counter The Culture Tour (1997)
* Take Me To Your Leader Tour (1996-97) (with Plankeye and Geoff Moore and The Distance)
* Going Public Tour (1995)
* Not Ashamed Tour (1993) (W/Code of Ethics and Tony Vincent)

Christian Music Links!

Members

2008-09-19T09:31:00.000-07:00

Current members

* Peter Furler - lead vocals, guitar, drums, song writer, producer (1985 - present)
* Jeff Frankenstein - keyboards, bass, backing vocals (1993 - present)
* Duncan Phillips - drums, percussion, formerly keyboards (1993 - present)
* Paul Colman - guitar, backing vocals, bass (2006 - present)

Former members

Lead vocals
* John James (1985–1997)

Guitar
* George Perdikis (1985–1987) — Left the band before their first album, but co-wrote most of the songs on it.
* Phil Yates (1987–1989)
* Jonathan Geange (1990–1991, 1992) — Returned to the band briefly after Vernon Bishop left, before Jody Davis joined.
* Vernon Bishop (1991–1992)
* Jody Davis (1992–2003) — Left the band to spend more time with his family, and to care for his sick daughter.
* Bryan Olesen (2003–2006) — Was only a temporary replacement until the Newsboys could find a full-time lead guitarist not tied up with another project.

Bass guitar
* Sean Taylor (1985–1992)
* Kevin Mills (1993–1995) — Left the band to manage White Heart; Died in a motorbike accident on December 3, 2000.
* Phil Joel (1995–2006) — Left band to pursue "personal interests", a solo career, and ministry opportunities; Jeff Frankenstein is currently playing synth-bass on keyboards while Paul Colman records bass in the studio.

Keyboards
* Corey Pryor (1988, 1990–1993)

Christian Music Links!

History

2008-09-19T09:22:00.000-07:00

Formation–1985

Newsboys' original core members, bassist Sean Taylor, vocalist John James, and drummer Peter Furler, formed the band in Mooloolaba, Australia in 1985 along with Furler's guitarist school mate, George Perdikis. The band's original name was The News, but once in the U.S. they changed it to The Newsboys to avoid conflict with another U.S.-based band. The band came to the United States in late 1987 after getting signed with Refuge Communications, and released the album Read All About It in 1988 in the United States. After signing with Star Song Communications, they released two more albums from 1990 to 1991: Hell Is For Wimpsand Boys Will Be Boyz. None of the three albums garnered much attention, and the band's lineup changed with every release.

1992–2000

It wasn't until their 1992 album, Not Ashamed (which featured a re-make of the DeGarmo & Key hit "Boycott Hell"), that the band gained notice in the Christian music scene. The title track of the album became a huge hit on Christian radio and elevated the band's profile considerably. Notably, Steve Taylor, a quirky singer well-known within the Christian music community, began a partnership with the band, producing the band's record and writing most of the lyrics for their songs; Furler remained the band's primary songwriter.

In 1994, amidst continued lineup changes (which included mainstays Jody Davis & Duncan Phillips), the band released Going Public, their fifth album and first smash success. The record proved to be a watershed for the group, winning a Dove Award for "Rock album of the Year" in 1995 [1]. It also produced #1 hits such as "Spirit Thing", "Let It Rain", and, most notably, "Shine". "Shine" quickly became an enormous hit and one of the most recognizable songs in Christian music, also taking the 1995 Dove for "Rock Recorded Song of the Year". In 2006, CCM Magazine listed "Shine" in the top ten in its ranking of the 100 Greatest Songs in Christian music. Going Public turned Newsboys into one of the top acts in Christian music.

The eagerly-anticipated follow-up, Take Me To Your Leader (1996), did not disappoint fans, either. The additions of Phillip Joel Urry & Jeff Frankenstein finalized a regular roster of musicians for the band and generally showcased a bigger rock sound than in past projects. Because of the large size of the band, their concerts were full of energy with various members trading instruments as well as introducing Peter's rotating drum set. The album produced more #1 hits: "God Is Not A Secret", "Reality", "Breakfast", and the title track. This album also snagged the groups third Dove, this time for "Recorded Music Packaging of the Year" [2]. The album solidified the band's place in the Christian music industry.

In 1997, John James announced he would be leaving the band to become a pastor. Despite the loss of the longtime frontman, the band pressed on. Furler easily switched from drums to vocals (as he had recorded most of the songs on past albums) and Duncan Phillips, who had previously played keyboards and percussion for the band, became the new drummer. From 1998 to 2003, the band's lineup of Furler, bassist Phil Joel, guitarist Jody Davis, keyboardist Jeff Frankenstein, and Phillips stayed constant. Often, at concerts and festivals such as Spirit West Coast, the band played "Breakfast" as the final song. It was customary for fans to purchase boxes of Captain Crunch and throw the cereal onto the stage, cued by "And Captain Crunch is waving farewell". A Captain Crunch fight between band members would ensue.

When Newsboys released its first post-James record, Step Up to the Microphone (1998), it quickly became clear that the band's popularity was still intact; the album sold well and produced, among other hits, the ubiquitous hit "Entertaining Angels", whose video won the 1999 Dove for "Short Form Music Video of the Year" [3]. During the resulting "Step Up To The Microphone" tour, the band featured the drums on a rotating platform that could tilt downward up to 90 degrees. In fact, there were two sets of drums and Peter Furler (the original drummer) and Duncan Phillips would wear seat belts and have a rotating drum-off. This feature is still used on their tours and has grown to be quite popular.

The band returned in 1999 with the oddly-titled Love Liberty Disco, the band's only album to majorly deviate from their pop rock sound. Featuring 60s era-inspired pop and disco, the album delivered radio single hits such as "Beautiful Sound", "Good Stuff", and "Love Liberty Disco".

2000–present

In 2000, Newsboys helped start and headlined the annual, traveling CCM festival Festival Con Dios with Audio Adrenaline and The O.C. Supertones. The festival was known for featuring popular Christian bands and for its motocross stunts.

Also in 2000, Newsboys released a greatest hits compilation, Shine: The Hits, which did not include any songs from the Love Liberty Disco album but included four new songs, two of which ("Joy" and "Who") went to #1. The band did not release any all new material until the spring of 2002 when they released Thrive. Featuring a return to pop-rock, the album also showcased one of the band's biggest hits: "It Is You".

The success of the worshipful "It Is You" perhaps paved the way for newsboys' first praise and worship album in 2003: Adoration: The Worship Album. The album soon became the band's best-selling to date, based on the strength of singles "He Reigns" and "You Are My King (Amazing Love)". Late in 2003, guitarist Jody Davis left the band to care for his sick daughter, Bethany; he was replaced by Bryan Oleson, who agreed to be a temporary replacement until the band found a replacement for Davis.

The band returned in 2004 with another worship album: Devotion, led by the single, "Presence (My Heart's Desire)". The album was not nearly as successful as its predecessor, one reason arguably being the modest impact the singles had on Christian radio. In 2006, Bryan Oleson left the band to focus on his own band, Casting Pearls. Paul Colman, a respected Australian Christian singer-songwriter and long time personal friend of Peter Furler, replaced him as guitarist.

Although the band is currently based in Nashville, its lineup remains predominantly Australian. Of the current lineup of Furler, Frankenstein, Phillips, and Colman, only Frankenstein (Michigan) hails from outside Australia.

The band's latest radio hits came in 2006 with a live version of "I Am Free" (originally written by Jon Egan of the Desperation Band), and "Wherever We Go". On October 31, 2006, Newsboys have released their newest pop/rock record entitled GO, as well as an iTunes GO EP, including the songs "Wherever We Go", "GO", and "I Am Free". The album was the band's first under their new Inpop Records label, and received strong reviews, praising the group's return to its original rock sound. "GO" featured upcoming Christian artist David Eri as a co-writer. Their song "Something Beautiful" and "In Wonder" were big hits on Christian Radio.[4]

Newsboys music is featured in the Christian video game Dance Praise. "Woo Hoo" from Step Up To The Microphone is included with the game. "You Are My King" and "It Is You" can be added to the song list via the Dance Praise Expansion Pack Volume 1: Modern Worship. "Devotion" can be added to the game via the Dance Praise Expansion Pack Volume 3: Rock & Pop Hits.

In December 2006, Phil Joel announced that he would leave the band to pursue his own projects and albums, bringing his time with the band to a close.

In May, 2007 The Newsboys announced that they will release the remixed version of the hit album "GO" which will include the smash hits "Wherever We Go" and "Something Beautiful. The CD was released on May 8, 2007" Featuring unique mixes by famed producers Tedd T., Jeff Frankenstein of newsboys, Max Hsu of Superchick and Lee Bridges. The "GO Remixed" album has been released and is available for purchase.[citation needed]

On November 20, 2007 the Newsboys released their newest album entitled The Greatest Hits. It features newer hit songs like "Wherever We Go," "Something Beautiful," "It Is You," "Million Pieces," and "You Are My King," in addition to older hits like "Reality," "Shine," "Not Ashamed," and many more. The 18 song CD also features two new songs "I Fought the La" (which features the singing of "La's" by the crowd from the Six Flags St. Louis Newsboys Concert of the GO Tour 8/11/2007), and "Stay Strong."

In late September 2008, Newsboys are set to release "Newsboys Live: Houston We Are Go" a CD/DVD combo recording package of the Newsboys Go Tour.

Every Nation Ministries links

The Newsboys have significant links to Every Nation. The group's lead singer, Peter Furler, is a member of Bethel World Outreach Center, an Every Nation church.

The Newsboys have also co-authored a book with the chief prophet of Every Nation, Jim Laffoon.[5] A daily teaching by Laffoon, was also given prominent space on the Newsboy's webpage.

Christian Music Links!

Newsboys - Thrive: At the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (Sparrow)

2008-09-19T04:27:00.000-07:00

Sounds like … hook-heavy pop/rock influenced by the likes of Midnight Oil and INXS, with clever production and co-writing assistance from the legendary Steve Taylor.

At a Glance … the Newsboys' new studio album, Thrive, brought to life in a live visual setting, complete with a handful of past hits and bonus footage.

The Newsboys have been one of the most electrifying live acts in Christian music since their Australian beginnings over a decade ago. From their natural on-stage chemistry to their breathtaking rotating drum kit, the Newsboys have earned flocks of satisfied fans in practically ever city they've visited. Besides possessing performance dynamics, the Newsboys often have gone where no band has gone before when it comes to touring plans. It all started after the release of Love, Liberty, Disco in 1999 when the band's subsequent tour was planned around a self-sufficient air dome venue that traveled from city to city with them, negating the need for them to be booked in a traditional concert hall, theater, college, or club.

They followed suit two years later while on the road in support of Shine: The Hits, their career-spanning best-of collection. Even more daring than the tour before, the Newsboys hit the road with the likes of Audio Adrenaline, The O.C. Supertones, and about a dozen other up-and-coming acts to mark the first time in music history that an entire festival lineup has gone on tour together! Similar to the dome-tour concept, "Festival Con Dios" was a fully functional, completely movable festival venue, with everything from sound and lights to food vendors and bathroom facilities.

Granted, it's hard to outdo such feats, which have already earned the Newsboys cover stories on both Newsweek and Pollstar (the music industry concert publication), but the band has managed to make history once again. On March 25, 2002, the group was invited to perform on one of the most coveted stages in music history, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum. To coincide with the band's latest release, Thrive, the Newsboys set up shop in the middle of the Museum (somewhere in between a display of Bono's outfits from the "Zoo TV" tour and a shrine to Led Zeppelin) to showcase the record, along with a few past gems. They did so on a semi-circle stage complete with an often-used catwalk, which throngs of people gathered around each time a band member ventured towards them. Originally airing on PAX television earlier this year, Thrive: At the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is now available for your viewing pleasure on DVD.

Like the CD, the DVD opens with the hearty rocker "Giving it Over," followed by the rollicking "Live in Stereo" (minus the whistling choir). The group performs 8 of the 10 tracks from the Thrive album, including potent renditions of "Million Pieces (Kissin' Your Cares Goodbye)" and "Rescue." The only awkward moment amongst the new material is the cut "The Fad of the Land," featuring a clumsy cameo appearance by dc Talk's Michael Tait, who attempts a duet with Peter Furler even though he doesn't know the words to the song. (Even more embarrassing is the fact Michael stumbles over the lyrics despite holding the CD jacket with the words printed inside while he's on stage)....

Continue Reading at this Christian Music Review

newsboys - He Reigns: The Worship Collection (Sparrow/EMI)

2008-09-19T04:25:00.000-07:00

Sounds like … the band's worshipful chapter of bright pop/rock from the last five years, compiled on one disc.

At a glance … the album could serve as an intro to their praise-oriented fare, but for fans who own the band's most recent albums, this disc is completely unnecessary.

Sometimes business dealings aren't always in the fans' best interest, leading to what's essentially a superfluous product. Case in point: He Reigns: The Worship Collection. In what ends up fulfilling the band's contractual obligation to Sparrow Records, the latest from newsboys is nothing more than a collection of the band's most worshipful offerings from their last four studio albums—Love Liberty Disco, Thrive, Adoration and Devotion.

A lot of artists these days—Usher, Gwen Stefani, Relient K, Green Day, John Mayer, and Building 429, to name a few—have repackaged their albums with enhanced features, bonus/unreleased tracks, a complimentary DVD with a live performance, or even some snazzy new packaging. But with He Reigns, even the packaging looks like a five-minute job—a shame, really, when you think about all that the newsboys have done in recent years....

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newsboys - The Greatest Hits

2008-09-19T04:24:00.000-07:00

Sounds like … ultra catchy Euro-pop/rock influenced by the likes of Duran Duran, a-Ha, Savage Garden, and INXS, as well as Steve Taylor.

At a glance … a seemingly unnecessary compilation, The Greatest Hits improves on its predecessor Shine: The Hits as a definitive collection of the best from the enduringly popular newsboys.

This compilation seems completely unnecessary at first glance, and the uninspired album cover sure doesn't help. Besides, we already have Shine: The Hits from 2000, as well as He Reigns: The Worship Collection from 2005. But this release manages to improve on its predecessors, and there's also a nostalgic purpose for The Greatest Hits. This year marks the official twentieth anniversary for the perpetually popular newsboys.

The absolute essentials are accounted for: "Shine," "Breakfast," "Not Ashamed," "Take Me to Your Leader," and even the sublime "Joy" from the first hits anthology. Also present are the worshipful anthems "It Is You" and "He Reigns," as well as the most recent material from the Go album, "Wherever We Go" and "Something Beautiful."

Lesser hits like "Woo Hoo," "Step Up to the Microphone," and anything before 1992's Not Ashamed have been dropped to accommodate the newer material—not a major loss, though its strange that 1999's Love, Liberty, Disco album has been completely ignored once again. Would it have hurt to throw a couple more songs on this 68-minute disc to get it right? And does their cover of the worship standard "You Are My King" really belong here?...

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newsboys - Go: Remixed (Inpop)

2008-09-19T04:21:00.000-07:00

Sounds like … the newsboys's Go album remixed to sound like a combination of Moby, Chemical Brothers, Beck, and Paul Oakenfold.

At a glance … it's mostly a fans-only treat, though remix aficionados might also find something to savor here.

Of all the bands in Christian music, few lend themselves better to the art of the remix than newsboys. Given their history with electronica and other synthesized sounds, that comes as no surprise. Some trace the group's techno-pop beginnings to 1992's Not Ashamed, whose title track became a dance-pop smash across Christian radio in the early '90s.

Their first remix album, 2002's Newsboys Remixed, was an all-out celebration of the band's love of all things digital, as well as a pretty good reinterpretation of some of the group's latter-day hits. This brings us to Go: Remixed, an ancillary release that repurposes the bulk of last fall's Go album for something that, for the most part, does a fairly good job of distancing itself from the original....

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newsboys - Go (Inpop)

2008-09-19T04:17:00.000-07:00

Sounds like … extremely catchy and electronic flavored pop/rock, reminiscent of '80s acts like Duran Duran, Frankie Goes to Hollywood, and a-ha, and similar at times to the more recent work of Scissor Sisters, Mute Math, and Family Force 5.

At a glance … though not a perfect effort, it's enough of a treat to hear the newsboys return to their playful and energetic Euro pop/rock roots while expressing poignant messages of love and grace inspired by the mission field.

Newsboys have been anything but idle in recent years, yet lots of their fans have been wondering where they've gone. Some felt the (mostly) Aussie band began to get too serious with Step Up to the Microphone (1998) and Love Liberty Disco (1999), but they rebounded once they re-teamed with co-producer/co-writer Steve Taylor for Thrive (2001). Then came the worship music phase—adoration (2003) and devotion (2004)—which brought the newsboys to a new level of success in touring and ministry. However, there's no denying that lots of fans have felt let down by a band whose catchy and fun-loving brand of Christian pop/rock attracted fans with Not Ashamed (1992), Going Public (1994), and Take Me to Your Leader (1996).

Happy to report that the fun side of the newsboys has finally resurfaced after a five-year hiatus with Go, an album titled for the band's newfound passion for worldwide ministry. They've managed to bring back most all the qualities that made them so revered for a time. And if you're worried that the addition of Paul Colman as the new lead guitarist, vocalist, and co-writer has dramatically altered their sound, think again. He recognizes that this is Peter Furler's ship and fits in perfectly.

The greatest strength of the newsboys has always been Furler's natural gift for infectious melodies and hooks. Some have compared it to ABBA—I'd say closer to '80s bands like Duran Duran, a-ha, and Frankie Goes to Hollywood. You can tell from the opening tom thunder of the radio single "Wherever We Go" that it'll play tremendously well in concert with its stadium-friendly chant, "Hands up, holler back here/Let's throw this party in gear, we brought the welcome mat/Wherever we go, that's where the party's at." The title track is similarly even more irresistible with its electronic flavored funk, and an awesomely produced chorus that belies the talents of co-producer Tedd T (Mute Math, Rebecca St. James).

"Something Beautiful" bears a similar dance rock vibe to past favorites like "Reality" and "Rescue," and "The Mission" even riffs on that classic guitar echo from '80s bands like The Police and Flock of Seagulls. Go also offers its share of big pop ballads, the best being "The Letter," written from God's perspective as a personal call to each of us from his Word. But the most interesting track has to be "Your Love Is Better Than Life" with its mix of spoken word verses and its worshipful choruses. Whether it reminds you of The Streets, EMF, or newsboys' own "Lost the Sky," it's a killer UK rock sound that contrasts our endless doubts with the certainty of God's love. Also check out "Gonna Be Alright," which like Moby's brand of DJ-fueled electronica makes unexpected use of Evie Tornquist's classic rendition of "Oh How He Loves You and Me" to yield some soulful modern pop....

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Newsboys - Devotion (Sparrow/EMI)

2008-09-19T04:15:00.000-07:00

Sounds like … worshipful pop/rock that bears the too obvious influences of U2, Coldplay, and Delirious.

At a glance … Devotion is an improvement from the mixed bag of Adoration, but it's not the Newsboys that many longtime fans remember, nor is it the full realization of what Newsboys could be as a worship band.

I've got some bad news for many longtime Newsboys fans. Remember when this was a fun band, with witty-yet-insightful songs of faith like "Shine" and "Take Me to Your Leader?" Remember when they were the premier live band in Christian rock with spinning drum kits and inflatable concert domes? They're things of the past.

Not to say we won't still hear some of the oldies in concert, or enjoy the visual wonder of a mega confetti machine amplifying the image of "Million Pieces." But Newsboys is a changed band, and it's not just because of the departure of longtime guitarist Jody Davis, who left to devote more time to family. Nor is it only because Adoration, the band's first full-fledged worship album, was the fifth to go Gold, leading to their most successful tour ever in support of it. It's really a combination of these two things. Frontman Peter Furler has seen more lives changed as a result of the worshipful focus, and the time on the road has caused him to reconsider his relationships with God and family.

So we continue into the new worshipful phase of the Newsboys' career, reflecting the band's new commitment to ministry—fulfilling God's plans, restoring relationships, promoting biblical literacy, and rallying people to fight the African AIDS crisis. Adoration was the start. Devotion involves a deeper response—commitment. The good thing about the Newsboys' success with worship is that it's challenged them to be more creative with the genre. They've got a ways to go before fully tapping their artistic potential in this, but Devotion is at least a step in the right direction. It's not the hodgepodge of live tracks, cover songs, and so-so originals heard on the previous recording. Self-produced by Furler and featuring additional guitar work from Stu G. (Delirious) and John Ellis (Tree63), Devotion features seven original songs co-written with Steve Taylor....

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Newsboys - Adoration: The Worship Album (Sparrow)

2008-09-19T04:12:00.000-07:00

Sounds like … inspired by the success of their hit single "It Is You," the modern pop band creates four more songs that sound just like it, and combine it with covers of other worship songs and new live renditions of their worshipful singles.

At a Glance … Newsboys should have taken their time perfecting this album — Adoration doesn't sound bad, but it lacks creativity and inspiration.

It's not as if the Newsboys have been absent in the last year, between the release of an acclaimed new album (Thrive), a hugely successful hit single ("It Is You," which was a number one Christian radio hit for three full months), an inspired concert DVD, a popular concert tour, and a fairly good remix album. Bassist Phil Joel even found the time to release an excellent solo album last fall, Bring It On.

Why then, in the aftermath of this flurry of activity, did the Newsboys and Sparrow Records feel so compelled to rush another album into stores little more than a year after the release of Thrive? On paper, Adoration: The Worship Album seems like a good idea. Inspired by the tremendous success of "It Is You" (which was shockingly overlooked for the 2003 Dove Awards), the band felt it was high time to release their own worship recording. After all, they've been creating excellent songs of worship long before "It Is You" — "Breathe" (not the Marie Bennett ballad), "I Surrender All" (not the classic hymn), "Be Still," "Break," and their arrangement of "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus" to name a few.

Like most every Newsboys album to date, Adoration does at least sound good, as co-produced with long-time collaborator Steve Taylor (who also co-wrote many of the new tracks) and recorded in the band's home studio — it's like a more live sounding Thrive. Peter Furler is a confident lead vocalist with great range, Phil Joel is a strong backing vocalist and a solid bassist, Jody Davis creates interesting guitar hooks, Jeff Frankenstein pads it all with beautiful keyboard sounds, and Duncan Phillips continues to shape himself into one of Christian music's finest drummers. The problem with Adoration is the overall album, which might best be viewed as the Newsboys' answer to the success of Third Day's Offerings projects. A combination of originals, covers, and live renditions of old favorites, this new disc feels as if it was scraped together too hastily.

As with Rebecca St. James's Worship God, some of these songs are simple rearrangements of modern worship favorites — familiar songs as performed by the artist. But even Rebecca and her producer knew enough to change their worship covers into unique, albeit predictable arrangements. Here the Newsboys are just predictable. Their rendition of Billy James Foote's intimate ballad "You Are My King (Amazing Love)" sounds exactly like every other version you've ever heard, except with Newsboys instrumentation. The same is true of "In Christ Alone," a modern Irish hymn written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend, stripped here of its Celtic leanings.

Three of the other songs on Adoration are previously released Newsboys favorites, retooled for this album. Note the parenthetical in the title "Praises (Take My Hands)." It indicates that this is a modified version of the song that first appeared on 2000's Shine: The Hits album — the difference is that the verses are now completely different, written by Martin Smith (Delirious) and tobyMac, and intended to be more worshipful with a chorus that now declares "I will sing Your praises" instead of "my praises." While the mix of this upbeat song is more aggressive than its predecessor, it's little more than that. Frankly, the original's Psalm-like lyrics were more interesting and meaningful than these new words of simple surrender. Also featured on Adoration are two live cuts, which feel out of place stuck in the middle of the album — the rock anthem "Lord (I Don't Know)" and, naturally, "It Is You." Both are beefed up with backup gospel singers, yet lack the energy of the originals found on Thrive....

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Newsboys - Remixed (Sparrow)

2008-09-19T04:11:00.000-07:00

Sounds like … the songs of the Newsboys from their last two albums, sonically transformed.

At a Glance … the Newsboys catalog has a bevy of songs that are perfect candidates for the remix treatment, which are wonderfully handled by several different artists, including some members of the Newsboys.

Sparrow Records has discovered a new low-cost source of revenue for their company – it's called the remix album. Unlike compilation albums however, there's an art to creating a good remix. It's more than simply putting a pop song to a new beat you can dance to, like so many past remix albums have done. There needs to be an element of creativity in the creation of the drum loops and sound effects. Thankfully, Sparrow's getting it right. Their first foray into the remix album genre was Avalon's O2 Remixed, a surprisingly well-made project that successfully transformed many of the vocal group's beloved hits into Euro dance-pop gems. Unfortunately, not all Avalon's fans were warm to the idea of someone messing with their favorite songs; and since the concept of a Christian dance club is fairly alien to most communities, O2 Remixed was largely overlooked. Sparrow probably will have an easier time marketing their latest two remix recordings — ZOEgirl's Mix of Life and Newsboys' simply titled Newsboys Remixed — because the concept is more compatible with the artists' style and fan base.

Like O2 Remixed, Newsboys Remixed features a handful of artists who lend their talents to transforming songs mostly culled from the Newsboys' last two studio albums. Perhaps the most prominent of these studio wizards are Andy Hunter (an up-and-coming DJ from the UK with a solo debut soon to release) and Tedd T. (producer for Rebecca St. James and Stacie Orrico to name a few), who both take the reigns on "It Is You (UK Mix)." This version merges old-time gospel with ambient electronica to remix the song into something you'd expect from Moby's Play or last year's Soul Lift project. Michael Linney's work on the album is equally impressive; he transforms the current single "Million Pieces (A Million and One Mix)" into a heavily distorted futuristic hip-hop track. He also handles yet another remix of the ever popular "Shine," but his "YZ250F Mix" is quite the rocking hip-hop groove that's different enough from other remixes of the song. I was delighted to see Dave Perkins involved with the remix project as well. The former guitarist of Chagall Guevara (Newsboys producer Steve Taylor's old band) delivers a stunning new rock rendition of "Fad of the Land," confirming my opinion that this Newsboys gem meshes well with the Chagall's repertoire as well. This version features additional guitars, keyboards, and drums, and Dave even brings Steve Taylor's backing vocals to the foreground.

If you were one of the Newsboys fans disappointed with the Love Liberty Disco album, you'll probably appreciate what Kipp Kubin and Tony Miracle did with that disc's three hits. The familiar opening guitar effect heralds the start of "Beautiful Sound (Below the Radar Mix)," which pretty much eliminates any trace of disco from the mix, save the lush string arrangement. The same can be said of "Love Liberty Disco (All Mixed Up Mix)" and its fabulous modern dance-club ambience. These remixes do a great job of reintegrating the songs into the Newsboys more modern-pop sounding repertoire. Additionally, there's the bizarre "NYC Mix" of "Good Stuff," which starts off true to the original, only to change into a cheesy easy listening doctor's lounge mix. Complete with a cornball Farfisa organ, a Moog synthesizer straight out of an old Wings album, and lots of "la la la" vocals, it bears little resemblance to the song people know. I suspect most people will dislike it, but I found it irresistibly campy and fun. Kudos to Kipp and Tony for coming up with something unusual and different to vary the sound of this album....

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Newsboys - Thrive (Sparrow)

2008-09-19T03:43:00.000-07:00

Sounds like … catchy melodies unite guitar rock and Euro dance-pop to recall bands such as INXS, Duran Duran, and Savage Garden.

At a Glance … the Newsboys return to all the elements that made them such a favorite through the '90s — the very reason fans will love Thrive.

Not many Christian artists can claim a fourteen year career, and it's hard to believe the Newsboys have been around that long. But, truth be told, it's frontman Peter Furler who's had the 14-year, 9-album career. The first three punk/new-wave albums hardly seem like the same band, and I think most appropriately look at 1992's Not Ashamed album as the launch pad for the band we know today as the Newsboys. It was that album that first featured the pairing of Peter with producer Steve Taylor (also a legendary Christian artist, songwriter, and the founder of Squint Entertainment), giving the Newsboys more of a Euro-dance-rock sound that was matched by extremely clever and satirical lyrics. It was the successful 1994 follow-up album, Going Public, that showcased the band we know today taking shape — introducing guitarist Jody Davis, percussionist Duncan Phillips, and keyboardist Jeff Frankenstein to the band. By 1996, the Newsboys had made bassist Phil Joel a part of the band, released the hit album Take Me to Your Leader, and firmly established themselves as one of Christian music's most successful acts. After two more studio albums, a greatest-hits collection, and an endless number of mind-blowing concerts (not to mention solo albums from Phil and Jody), the Newsboys are poised to thrill audiences yet again with their latest project, Thrive.

To call them pop would mean ignoring their modern guitar rock sound and sophisticated Euro-pop programming, and yet their penchant for catchy melodic hooks keeps hard-rock purists from fully embracing them. They're one of those rare bands that falls somewhere in the middle and attracts a wider audience for it, in the same way that bands such as INXS and U2 have done. Though they've altered their sound just enough from album to album to give each their own flavor, the Newsboys have remained remarkably consistent over the years. However, fans were not as quick to warm up to the retro sounds of their neo-disco project, 1999's Love Liberty Disco. The Newsboys undoubtedly recognized this, since Thrive is essentially a return to formula. I'd describe it as somewhere in between the guitar rock of Take Me to Your Leader and the modern pop of Step Up to the Microphone. Comparisons to Take Me to Your Leader extend to the production crew involved, since this is the first album co-produced by Steve Taylor since that release (Peter produced the last two albums himself). Additionally, acclaimed mix-specialist Thom Lord-Alge (Dave Matthews Band, INXS, Collective Soul) also returns for the first time since Take Me to Your Leader to give it that slightly more polished and professional finish.

When you put all those ingredients together, you can't help but achieve greatness. Peter's melodies shine like always, especially on the extremely catchy "Million Pieces" (about laying all our burdens before the Lord and the sense of freedom that follows), the title track (a prayer for God's direct presence in our lives), and the first hit single, "It Is You," a deceptively simple worship song that features some wonderfully flowing lyrics and excellent production. The rest of the band joins Peter to record some of their most rocking material since "Woo Hoo" and the Take Me to Your Leader album. Particularly impressive is the gritty classic-rock sound of "Giving it Over," which sounds like something the Rolling Stones or T-Rex ("Bang a Gong") would have recorded back in the late '60s or early '70s. There's also "John Woo," which may be the band's most progressive and experimental song to date, blending modern rock with techno, industrial, and an unusual-yet-catchy melody....

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Newsboys -Shine - The Hits

2008-09-19T03:40:00.000-07:00

This the season for greatest hits projects! I can't remember the last time they were released in such abundance-- dc Talk, Carman, Bride, All Star United, Plumb, Audio Adrenaline (next spring), and now the Newsboys. Hits projects can be spectacular or complete wastes of disc space. With the Newsboys' Shine - The Hits, the fans are treated more thoughtfully than all the others released so far this year. Not only are 3 brand new songs present, but a special remix of a song as well as the first successful (that I've heard) effort to blend all the hits into one song exists at the close of the album. On top of this, the older tunes are "digitally remastered" and there is a ever-so-slight remix of "Shine."

This remix starts off the collection appropriately (from the 1995 Going Public era) and is more appropriately followed up by the song that made the band, the 1992 hit, "Not Ashamed." Sounding as great as ever, the track is followed up by the 1996 Take Me to Your Leader fan favorite "Breakfast." Two other cuts from the same album directly follow, including "Reality" and the title track. A brand new song, "Joy," a worshipful pop/rock song with the sound and feel of something off their 1998 Step Up to the Microphone album. The song fits well and is definitely "hit" material.

"Entertaining Angels" adequately follows, with another new song, "Praises," stepping up afterwards. Sounding like a modern version of a song you might have found on Not Ashamed, "Praises" is another worshipful song with yet another catchy rhythm. Going Public's "Spirit Thing" follows with "Woohoo" and "Step Up to the Microphone" close behind. Only problem I had there was the consecutiveness of the last 2 songs makes you forget you're listening to their greatest hits and makes you think you have in Step Up to the Microphone, with those songs being the 2 tracks that start off that album. The intriguing and tasty "God Is Not a Secret featuring Toby Mac" is a treat to fans as the pumped up tune gets a boost from dc Talk's own Toby McKeehan. Although completely different from the rest of the collection, I'm glad they included the new version....

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Newsboys - LoveLibertyDisco

2008-09-19T03:37:00.000-07:00

As I sit here and listen to this CD I think to myself, "Why?" In case you haven't heard the Newsboys released a new CD on Nov. 16 entitled Love, Liberty, Disco. If you're a big Newsboys fan and haven't heard this yet, you're in for a big surprise. Many bands have drastically changed their sound this year like Jars of Clay, Third Day, Delirious and The Insyderz. Well, add the Newsboys to that list. I think that when the Boys sat down they said, "Alright let's do a CD that's totally different from anyone else including ourselves." Well needless to say they succeeded, and in a major way. I think that many bands are under so much pressure to do good that they forget to have fun. As we all know very well the Boys are very good at having fun and i think they did here.

Lyrically the CD is incredible. All the lyrics were written by Peter Furler and Phil Joel. They deal with everything from love, to conviction, to the Holy Spirit and wrap it up into one project: Love, Liberty, Disco. The first song, "Beautiful Sound" has a couple different meanings. The obvious one is that the Lord loves to hear us sing. Looking at it closely I think they were trying to point out that we are "poetry in motion" in God's eyes. What a humbling thought. The title cut "Love, Liberty, Disco" says that there is a God that loves us and a family that loves us. Once I looked at the song closely I saw a theme of heaven. The little drawing next to the song in the CD jacket kind of reinforces that idea. The song "Forever Man" talks about God being the Forever Man. Our society focuses on people who are original. The lyrics, "Good news for the common man, made by the creator's hands" is encouraging because it reminds us that God created us in His image for His purpose. The only disturbing part in this song is when they mimic the vocal band Glad.

My favorite song, "Good Stuff" is based on the love chapter, 1 Cor. 13. I feel it's a challenge to believers to "show what we know, let the good stuff flow." Showing love is something that we know how to do, but often forget. The song, "Everyone's Someone" is a reminder to all that "no matter who you are, no matter where you run to, no matter what you do, no matter what you're going through. When it all comes down everyone's someone." The song "Say You Need Love" talks about unconditional love. It talks about God's love for us that we sometimes don't return in full. "I would Give Everything" starts out depressing, but ends on a happy note. It's hard to tell exactly what this song is about. I think it's actually the Boys' statement of faith. Some of the lyrics are, "I would give everything to give nothing" and continuously asks the question of "How long?" The song "Break" is a song of conviction by the Holy Spirit. One of the lyrics in the song is , "A world full of hurt so full of need. The closer I get I see. The less of me." talks about seeing the need and letting the Spirit break us and let Him take control.

"I Surrender All" is pretty self-explanatory in itself. However this isn't the same song that we sing in church, but the application is the same. At the end of the song, it talks about God's nature is to love us, but not the things we do. God doesn't have to love us because He's God, but He does anyway. "Fall On You," the last song on the album talks about letting the Holy Spirit fill us. I think that it was the perfect song to end the CD with. It summed up all of the topics on the CD and ended up with the source of it all the Holy Spirit....

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Newsboys - Step Up To the Microphone (1998)

2008-09-19T03:35:00.000-07:00

The Newsboys became one of my favorite alternative bands when they released their absolutely awesome Not Ashamed project. Although not of the same caliber in my opinion, Step Up to the Microphone is not a bad piece of music, and is worth the listen. For the most part, though, the band seems to have lost the hyperactive energy and unique sound that first attracted me to them. The new sound is well crafted and quite listenable, but there isn't anything now to distinguish the Newsboys from every other modern alternative rock band.

"WooHoo" told me from the get-go that they had forsaken the keyboard / techno driven music of their previous albums, much like Take Me to Your Leader had before it. The electronic sound is still there, but it muffled behind powerful, distorted electronic guitars, while the drums don't have the heart-stopping power I liked so much in their previous work.

This may well be because co-founder Peter Furler, who used to drive aggressively from behind his drum kit, is now in the lead vocals role following the departure of former lead man John James. Duncan Phillips, the new drummer, has a style of his own that is quite talented, but just doesn't quite fill the hole left by Furler....

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Newsboys - Take Me To Your Leader (1996)

2008-09-19T03:30:00.000-07:00

When I first heard the latest release by the Newsboys, I had relatively low expectations, as most of what I heard about it was on the negative side. Instead, I got a lesson about not listening to other people's judgments: this CD rocks!

The Newsboys have taken another step in the right direction with Take Me To Your Leader. The band rocked the Christian alternative / pop scene in 1992 with Not Ashamed, and this album takes the lyrical wit and musical creativity to the max. If it weren't for the fact that this CD is only 37 minutes long, I'd have rated it a five-star hands down. Unfortunately, I can't give five stars when I pay $16 for 37 minutes of music.

The CD begins with the Newsboys new rock / alternative / pop recipe, which incidentally now includes no looping or sequencing ... i.e. everything you hear is straight from the musicians. Granted, there are a lot of effects and such, but the 'boyz blew me away with this one. They managed to reproduce the high energy and impact of Not Ashamed without the extra looping.

"God Is Not A Secret" opens with in-your-face lyrics and rock, and a message they have held all along: they ain't going to hide God, they're going to tell everyone about Him! From the first verse, they set the record straight:

"You don't understand, this is not what you think it is. You don't get it man, you want to boil it down to showbiz. Your in-depth research shows: drop the God, emphasize the beat; I've heard that positive pop you dig - I'd rather be buried in wet concrete!"

Talk about speaking their mind! But would you expect or accept anything less from the band that woke up the world to the fact that Christian alternative doesn't have to be disappointing. The rest of the song sings that God is not a secret, they're not going to hide Him, they're not going to play lyrical and political games by keeping their message vague ... as the Psalms say, if we don't praise His name, the rocks and all of creation will cry out for us. Personally, I think it would be somewhat embarrassing to be outdone by a tree! And catch the trailer, if you haven't caught on to the Newsboys determination: "Would I deny my savior when He hung inside the public square? Did not my silence put Him there?" It sounds to me like we have a duty to do, and the Newsboys aren't being eccentric ... they're merely living up to our God-given responsibilities as Christians.

The title track follows, with a mellow, funky air to it, and a message that we've go to take them to our Leader - a fitting follow up to the intro track. After this comes "Breathe," which I think could have been done better. For a rock alternative song, it's pretty cool, but the song and the music don't fit together. It sounds more like a ballad sung to a rock background to me.

The pop hit "Reality" is the fourth cut on the CD, and is bound to rise up the charts. The Newsboys, with lyrical help from Steve Taylor, created a winner with this one. They take a very mellow, almost easy-listening style, put in a heavy bass line and drum beat, and added in some really clever lyrics, making a song that's a lot more energetic and upbeat than it's tempo would make you think.

The lyrics on this song really are funny, in typical Newsboys / Steve Taylor combo style. It starts out with a letter to Mom and Dad, saying "I'm fine, how are you? I've joined a small circus ... I'm a little malnourished, but try to relax. Could you find a better photo for the milk carton backs? Send money." The second verse says more of the same - "My career as an acrobat hasn't begun, but I'm busy giving blood and shoveling elephant dung." The chorus comes back with the reality that comes from God: "God is calling, there's no bigger love. It's His reality that welcomes us back."

Another serious joke follows: and ode to "Breakfast." In effect, it's a funeral song for a breakfast that's seen better days, but the chorus has a catchy, if serious, message: "When the toast is burned and all the milk has turned and Captain Crunch is waving farewell, When the big one finds you, may this song remind you that they don't serve breakfast in Hell." Hidden behind the cereal bowl full of wit is a lot of wisdom - no matter how hard life is on Earth, it isn't anything like Hell will be for those who don't know Jesus. When we as Christians die, we have Heaven to look forward to, and those we leave behind have comfort in knowing we're in a better place. When non-Christian's die, they don't have that hope, and the ones they leave behind can only mourn. In a way, the 'boyz are saying that even if you don't care about going to Hell, you owe it to your loved ones to turn to Christ....

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Newsboys - Going Public (1994)

2008-09-19T03:27:00.000-07:00

It's a shame this release by one of Christian alternative music's hottest band is so short ... it's a hot CD, but I can't very well give five stars after paying $16 for just over a half hour of music. And it's a shame I didn't finish this review when I started it :-) But better late than never, eh?

If Not Ashamed put the Newsboys on the map in 1992, Going Public has assured them a continued spot in the limelight. It doesn't have the same level of hyperactivity and techno sound, but the boyz' message hasn't diminished one bit. From "Real Good Thing," which reminds us to be thankful that we don't get what we deserve, the the AC radio hit "Be Still," this album is welcomed in my library.

The first song I heard off of the CD was "Be Still," which played on a radio station in Albuquerque, New Mexico, before the CD was released. I was hooked from the get-go, and bought the album as soon as it was released.Possibly the most recognized song is "Shine" (I can say that now, because I'm finishing this review two years after the album was released!). It's got the pop and rock feel that put it well up on the contemporary and rock charts for some time, and if I remember correctly, garnered the band a Dove award in 1996. With it's message to "shine, let them wonder what you've got - make them wish that they were not on the outside looking bored." Hey - we've got an exciting gift in the form of salvation; let's show them that we're excited about it!

The title track takes "Not Ashamed" to the next level. It's not enough to simply be unashamed - we've got to speak out, to reach out - to go public with our faith...

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2008-09-19T03:24:00.000-07:00

This is the album where the Newsboys really started to hit their stride. With their fourth album, the Newsboys went from an average pop/rock group to one that would produce great hits such as "Shine," "Breakfast," and "Take Me to your Leader," within a few short years.

The difference? Enter Steve Taylor. Acting as a songwriter/producer, Steve Taylor's unique and fun lyrical style combined with Peter Furler's rapidly improving songwriting skills to transform the Newsboys' sound into the catchy/fun-loving style they have now become famous for. Granted, this album is only the stepping stone towards future masterpieces, and it's certainly not perfect, but already several gems on the album showcase the Newsboys now-signature sound.

Strong cuts include the title track and "Strong Love" - two catchy and upbeat songs that showcase Steve Taylor's lyrics talents: "And some go for broke/like headless chicken folk - inspiring jokes about 'poultry-in-motion'." Lyrically, the themes range from boldness in faith ("I'm Not Ashamed") to reconciliation ("We Come Together") and God's unconditional love ("Love Comes True").

While this album is very 90's pop-oriented, there are some strong rockers in the mix ("I Cannot Get You Out of my System" and the DeGarmo & Key cover "Boycott Hell"). Other highlights include the keyboard-driven "Love Comes True" and "Lost the Sky Again" - where listeners are treated to a few guest raps by Steve Taylor....

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Newsboys - Boys Will Be Boyz

2008-09-19T03:21:00.000-07:00

I theorize that nobody has rated this album, Boys will be Boyz, because obviously few knows it even exists. It's really unfortunate that the Newsboys' greatest hits album never reached back this far because there were some really strong cuts on this disc. It's full on cheese whiz for the most part but it's mighty fine fun and that's what the Newsboys do. What I never got was the guitarist on this one. I saw him in concert during this tour and he must have been 50 years old -- looked like a soccer hooligan and did this wild outback yell. But he could play! John James does his thing with all the force of a tidal wave. Man, I miss that guy on stage -- reminded me of the lead singer of Midnight Oil (Peter Garrett?). But now that they are huge and beyond the days of embarrassment here, they have no need to revisit this era. Newsboys fans would do well to educate themselves on the history of this fine band when a trip to the novelty shop (upside down drums) and flying saucers (Take Me to Your Leader) made for some amazing shows....

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Newsboys - Hell Is For Wimps

2008-09-19T03:18:00.000-07:00

Being a major Newsboys junkie, I got this album purely so that I could say "I have every Newsboys CD," which, considering how many albums the band has, is quite a feat. The bigger feat is that this album surprised me, a "Newsboys expert." It is nothing like the rock of Take Me to Your Leader or even the pop/rock of Not Ashamed. When taken in context, however, this style makes sense. It has the distinctive sound of the 80's (when the album was made), has all the high points and pitfalls of a band still finding their musical footing, and hints at the fact that the 'boys were trying a little too hard to expand their fan base.

The album starts off with "Stand Up for Jesus" which makes for one of the most hilarious opening sounds I've ever heard. The guitars are the high point of the song as Jonathan Geange goes into mini-solos every now and then. Next is "In the End," a rather monotonous rock song that I usually end up skipping after the first verse. "Simple Man" is probably the best song on the album with engaging drums, thoughtful lyrics, and very nice vocals by John James. "All I Can See" is a very nice ballad with good vocals, but sounds a little too much like "Love You Tomorrow," found later on the disc. The last notable song is "Ten Thousand Miles," which has a nice beat and feel to it, featuring some of the best lyrics....

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Newsboys -Read All About It

2008-09-19T03:08:00.000-07:00

As I place this album into my stereo and push 'play', I am embraced by enthusiastic young Aussies eager to proclaim their faith. The music is very much in style for the 80's,
and the song lyrics are very simple. For the Newsboy's first record, I think that it shows a lot of potential talent.

Throughout the entire album the music is very upbeat and joyful, while lead vocalist John James declares simple Christian truths such as "He's coming back again" and "Love and Joy and Peace and Hope is what He offers us." The lyrics of the songs touch several topics ranging from standing up for our faith to how He will never leave us. Some lyrics are very simplistic: "He can give us the power to make it through, He gives us the strength, He cares for you"; while other dive a little deeper, "I see the neon lights as they light the city sky / I see a desperate boy at the moment he cries / I see him reaching out, his hand is to the sky / I'm telling you don't let go, God is on your side."...

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Guitar Computer Game Using Christian Rock Releases Sept. 2008

2008-09-19T01:58:00.000-07:00

Digital Praise® Inc, the leader in Christian-themed, family-friendly entertainment software, announced Guitar Praise™, its new inspirational PC guitar game, at the International Christian Retail Show 2008 in Orlando. Combining unique play features with a playlist of today’s most popular Contemporary Christian rock hits, Guitar Praise gives Christian retailers a headlining opportunity to build on the $1 billion guitar game segment that continues to smash sales records among young consumers.

In creating Guitar Praise, Digital Praise has applied its intimate knowledge of player tastes gained through its #1 best-selling Dance Praise™ dance arcade game franchise. “Our research shows that 92% of Dance Praise families, and 100% of Dance Praise churches, are interested in Guitar Praise,” said Tom Bean, President and CEO of Digital Praise, Inc. “People love the console guitar games on the market, but many would like more family-friendly songs and graphics. Guitar Praise gives kids, families and youth groups the play features they like best, plus some new twists as well as the best Christian rock titles out there today.”

Leading the unique list of features in Guitar Praise is the ability to sing along with the game’s chart-topping rock tunes, thanks to lyrics that scroll across the screen. “Guitar Praise can be an exciting group event ,” noted Bean. “Having the lyrics onscreen reinforces the positive messages present in Guitar Praise’s roster of songs, and allows everyone to take part in the game.”
Inspirational Fun Guitar Praise lets players act out their dreams of leading a rock band by playing along with their favorite Christian rock tunes. As the song and lyrics play, colorful notes scroll down the screen. Players must keep up by matching the notes to the fret buttons on the guitar controller included with the game. Four levels of play are offered—as the player completes songs, more tracks are unlocked and the challenge increases.

New Digital Praise® Guitar Praise™ Set To Take Center Stage With Kids, Families This Fall—Page 2

Guitar Praise features 52 of the most inspirational and pulsating tracks from the Christian rock world, all by the original artists. Today’s most popular hits are combined with classics from the 80’s and 90’s; the playlist includes titles from Flyleaf, Skillet, Stellar Kart, tobyMac, Newsboys, Petra, 12 Stones, Spoken, Whitecross, Thousand Foot Krutch, Paul Baloche, David Crowder, and Red, plus many others.
As players shred through their guitar solos, Guitar Praise records high scores per song. New songs, in sets of five, are unlocked along the way to keep the player’s interest. By tilting the guitar, players can activate spinner bonuses; as they increase their skills they can earn new onscreen “guitars” with richer sounds and different effects.

One or Two Players
Guitar Praise keeps the fun coming by allowing either one player to perform in solo mode, or two players to compete for the better lead guitar score. With a second guitar (not included but available from digitalpraise.com), players can jam at the same time—both on lead guitar, or one on lead and the other on bass. The game’s Power Duel mode also lets players send “surprises” that impact their opponent’s play.

Pricing and Availability
Guitar Praise supports both Windows and Mac personal computers and includes one wireless guitar controller, a USB wireless adapter, plus the game CD-ROM. (The guitar controller requires 4 AA batteries – not included.) Setting up the game is easy—just load the software into any PC or Mac, plug in the wireless adapter, switch on your guitar and you’re ready to rock!

Guitar Praise carries an MSRP of $99.95 (USD) and is expected to be in stores September 25, 2008. During the International Christian Retail Show 2008, July 13-17, Guitar Praise will be demonstrated at the Digital Praise exhibit, Booth 417 in the Orange County Convention Center. For more information or to order Guitar Praise visit the exhibit or contact Digital Praise at http://www.digitalpraise.com/.

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