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Jason Crabb’s Love Is Stronger Makes Impressive Debut– Tops the Southern Gospel Chart, Lands in Christian Music’s Top 10 Chart and in Billboard’s Top 200

GAITHER MUSIC GROUP, NASHVILLE, Tenn.–March 22^nd—Love Is Stronger, the sophomore, studio release from GRAMMY® Award winner and GMA DOVE Awards Artist and Male Vocalist of the Year Jason Crabb, hit the streets this week coming in at the #1 spot on the southern gospel chart and debuting at #7 on the contemporary Christian music chart, according to Nielsen SoundScan.  The all-new release from Gaither Music Group appeared at #94 on the overall Billboard Top 200 chart.

JASON CRABB HITS A HOME RUN WITH LOVE IS STRONGER!

March 19, 2013 – (NASHVILLE, TN) The reviews are in and critics are raving about Love Is Stronger, the latest release from Grammy award-winning vocalist, Jason Crabb. The second studio release from 17-time Dove Award-winning vocalist has garnered attention from both Christian and mainstream press including CCM Magazine, Entertainment Tonight, Associated Press, and Fox News, among others.

Additionally, the release was highlighted by iTunes – the largest distributor of digital music – as a “New & Noteworthy Release” on the main iTunes page as well as Christian & Gospel page. iTunes selects these spots for releases they deem to be be significant additions to the musical landscape. AOL Music also turned their spotlight onto the project by hosting an AOL Music Listening Party where listeners could stream the entire CD for free during release week.

Produced by a trio of musical heavyweights – Jay DeMarcus (Rascal Flatts), Ed Cash (Chris Tomlin), Wayne Haun (Jessica Simpson, Celine Dion) – the project has received amazing support among reviewers and music fans alike. “I’ve been blown away with how warmly this new music has been embraced,” said Crabb. “I am so proud of this project and my prayer is that the music would touch the listener and give them encouragement.”

Crabb kicked off his release in high-gear as Free Chapel hosted a live CD release celebration featuring Jason, his band and a live orchestra. The event, streamed to over 40,000 people in more than 35 countries, featured special guests Pastor Jentezen Franklin, Andy Andrews and producers Jay DeMarcus and Wayne Haun. From there, Jason was interview by Fox News’ Lauren Green via satellite from Rome, Italy where. Jason continued his high-octane release week taking the stage of the Grand Ole Opry where he debuted two new tracks from the project and he wrapped up the weekend with an appearance at Billy Graham’s “The Cove.”

Here’s just a sample of what people are saying about Love Is Stronger:

“Grammy-winning Christian singer Jason Crabb impressively drives home the theme of how genuine love can be even if there’s heartache and grief. His soaring voice, lyrics of enduring faith and solid production on the 11-track set continue to prove why he is the Gospel Music Association’s reigning male vocalist and artist of the year.”
– Associated Press

“Love is Stronger is a breakthrough album that will thrust Jason Crabb into a bright spotlight…Jason uses tremendous vocal control as he slides effortlessly from soft, tender notes to full-on power belting… Kari Jobe joins her voice with Jason’s on “Love Wins.” The song defies categorization and should reach and bolster many…. This (album) has huge potential to expand Crabb’s audience…Packed from start to finish with strong songs, versatile vocal performances, and an abundance of energy and emotion, this album is not limited to a single musical category…A gem of a record”
– New Release Tuesday

“Few artists on today’s musical landscape possess Jason Crabb’s ability to move effortlessly from one musical style to another, erasing boundaries between country, pop and gospel with the smooth, rich voice that has made him a Grammy winner and the Gospel Music Association’s reigning Male Vocalist and Artist of the Year”
– AOL’s The Boot

“No corn fluff to be found here…rich interpretations of positive lyric themes are set against solid arrangements…Crabb’s soulful tone weaves through this record… An eleven-track gem.”
– Music News New York

“Jason Crabb’s new album (Love Is Stronger) is impressive.”
– Huffington Post 

“One of the most anticipated releases of 2013…He is definitely one of the most talented vocalists out there.  Love Is Stronger is definitely one of the best albums of 2013.”
– Christian Music Review

“…One of the most talented artists this industry we call CCM has ever seen…Spine-tingling artistry…Each moment of the new album is emotive and beyond the confines of any one genre…”
– CCM Magazine

“One of the most gifted vocalists to rise in popularity the past decade…A collection of strong tunes…Brilliant vocal showcases.”
– Roughstock

“Crabb has never been more himself: he shows a greater command over his vocals and he has never sounded more passionate…This CD really brings out the new man in Crabb – one who is confident when he rocks and yet provides the heart pabulum when he croons.”
– Breathecast

“…Truly magical…Powerful, Jason’s delivery is heartfelt and flawless…”
– Absolutely Gospel

“…Truly fulfilling…One of the strongest gospel albums of this year.”
– Nashville Country Club

From the reviews, it is evident that Love Is Stronger, and the overriding messages of love and encouragement contained in the lyrics, have resonated strongly. The 11-track CD was released on March 12, 2013 and contains lyrics that echo Crabb’s own real-life.

Along with the release of the new project, Jason reached a social media milestone during release week crossing over 100,000 “likes” on Facebook. “I love my Facebook family! I love the way everyone prays for and interacts with each other,” Crabb comments. “It’s amazing what one comment can lead to. Many times I’ve posted a scripture or encouraging thought and someone replies back to tell me that it was exactly what they needed at that time.”

Love Is Stronger is available wherever music is sold and online digitally at iTunes, Amazon, and Rhapsody among others.

Connect with Jason Crabb
Website :: www.JasonCrabb.com
Facebook :: www.Facebook.com/JasonCrabbMusic
Twitter :: www.Twitter.com/JasonCrabbMusic

Photo: From L-R: Paul Franklin, Mel Tillis, Jason Crabb, Pete Fisher (Opry General Manager) and Buck White (The Whites) all smiles as Jason gets ready to take the Grand Ole Opry stage. Photo courtesy Nelon PR

SGNScoops On The Road: “Jason Crabb Celebrates CD Release”

“It’s Time To Let The World In On Our Little Secret”

By Rhonda Frye

What a night at Free Chapel in Gainesville, Georgia!  Pastor Jentezen Franklin opened the doors to the Worship Center welcoming the Grammy winning, reigning GMA Dove Male Vocalist and Artist of the Year, Jason Crabb. This wasn’t an ordinary concert, but a special night of celebration of the highly anticipated release of LOVE IS STRONGER.  Jason was joined by family, friends, special guests and a house packed with enthusiastic fans eager to sample the new music. This new music is geared up to reach all ages, genres and the world with the love of Christ.

Following a warm introduction, Jason claimed the stage in style- all dressed up in a hot pink jacket! He opened the night with the first track off the album, “Give.” Judging by the crowd’s response, it was obvious from the first few lines of the song that Jason’s new music was going to be received well.

The crowd listened intently as Jason sang “I’m a mess today cause yesterday I followed the desires of my foolish heart into the dark…Feeling far away, need a couple days to work real hard to hit the mark  to get myself back in good with you.  What a waste, what a losing game cause…..”  After the pause, Jason broke into the chorus… “That’s What The Blood Is For,” and the crowd broke out into applause, many rising to their feet.  “What The Blood Is For,” written by Ronnie Freeman and Tony Woods, is Crabb’s first single to Southern Gospel radio.

Sprinkled throughout the night were video messages of congratulations from Barbara Mandrell, Larry Gatlin, Kari Jobe and also Bill Gaither.  All were personal and meant to be treasured by Crabb, but Bill Gaither’s words were  profound:  “…You’re changing the world,” Gaither commented.

Finding it hard to find the right words to express gratefulness, Jason welcomed Wayne Haun and Jay DeMarcus to the stage to discuss the production of the album. Everyone laughed as Jason admitted to how nervous he was during the project’s beginning stages.  Both Haun and DeMarcus had encouraging words for Crabb and expressed high hopes of the record crossing over into the mainstream market. “It’s time we let the world in on our little secret,” DeMarcus said.  The crowd clapped, cheered, and whistled in enthusiastic response!

Pastor Jentezen Franklin spoke similar words of encouragement for the album to go beyond the Christian market and prayed over Jason with boldness and great faith. Obviously humbled, Jason was grateful for the words of life spoken into his ministry.

Jason was also thankful that longtime friend, best-selling author, Andy Andrews made an appearance at this special occasion.  As soon as Andrews won the crowd with humor, he deposited spiritual truths into their hearts.

In the course of the evening, Jason showcased the increasingly popular, “Let Mercy Hold You,” and introduced the song “Near.”  Again, the crowd responded in heart-stirred worship standing on their feet with hands lifted high. Read more »

Beyond The Ashes’ Debut StowTown Records’ Album, LIVING IN THE MOMENT, Set To Release This Tuesday March 5th

Nashville, TN (March 1, 2013) – Quickly becoming one of the most well loved trios in Christian music today, Dove Award Nominee, Beyond the Ashes (BTA) are on fire once again with their debut StowTown Records‘ release, Living in the Moment. The new album will arrive at stores, and digitally, via iTunes and others, this Tuesday, March 5th, 2013.

Jentezen Franklin Welcomes Jason Crabb for CD Release Celebration

Jason Crabb, Christian Music’s Artist and Male Vocalist of the Year, to Release All-NEW, Sophomore Studio Recording

NASHVILLE, Tenn.— Jason Crabb, Christian music’s reigning Artist and Male Vocalist of the Year, is set to release his all-new, sophomore studio release, Love Is Stronger (Gaither Music Group), on March 12th. The follow-up to his GRAMMY®-winning, self-titled debut, this 11-song collection finds Crabb working with an all-star cast of producers including Jay DeMarcus (producer and member of country super group Rascal Flatts), Ed Cash (Chris Tomlin, Kari Jobe) and Wayne Haun (Celine Dion, Earl Scruggs), each of whom produced Crabb for the first time.

“This is a dream come true!” exclaims a wide-eyed, smiling Jason Crabb. “I mean–to get to go into the studio with these three producers and to have them make you better at what you do is unbelievable to me. All throughout the recording process I would find myself thinking, ‘Really? Is this happening? Am I getting to do this?’ This is a record I’ve been waiting to do my whole life, and I’ve never been more excited about a group of songs.”

That group of songs was written by some of the music industry’s most respected writers including Ronnie Freeman, Tony Wood, Sarah Hart, Marc Byrd, Jimmy Yeary, Sonya Isaacs Yeary, Connie Harrington, Mia Fieldes, Seth Mosley, Michael A. Mobley, Geron Davis and Barry Weeks among others. The recording found Crabb taking a bit of a different role inside the studio.

“I wanted to be hands off this time,” he recalls. “I’m usually involved directly or indirectly in the process, but this time I wanted to let people whom I respect guide me. The label and I discussed the song choices, of course, as well as what I wanted to say; but overall, I said, ‘I’m going to let you take the reins.’ I told all three of the producers, ‘I want to walk out of here feeling like I’ve run not just a half-marathon, but the whole thing. I wanted to be put to the test–to go to the mat, so to speak. And they pushed me! Whether it was ‘backing off’ on some things or ‘giving more’ on others, they pushed me.”

The result from this 17-time GMA DOVE Award winner is a body of work that finds Jason at the top of his game and making new friends along the way. “Working with Jason was just an absolute true joy,” describes Cash. “He’s one of my favorite people I’ve ever met. He’s such a genuine guy and so real and sincere; and that’s rare to find, particularly for someone who’s had such great success. I was absolutely blown away by how Jason was so vocally flexible…not only was he technically able to stretch vocally, but I feel like the sincerity in his voice was absolutely maintained, and I think that’s just a testament to his character. Whatever he’s singing—whatever is coming out of his mouth–it’s believable because he’s believable.”

Jay DeMarcus agrees, “As a producer, I’ve been fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with some of the best singers ever; I would certainly put Jason on that list! It is such a joy to work with someone that is so talented and driven. We’ve had a blast working together, and I think he has stretched himself creatively to the point to where he even surprised himself. I cannot wait for people to hear this record!”

One of the songs that DeMarcus produced was “There’s Not a Crown,” a song previously recorded by Michael English and later by The Martins with English producing them. This new rendition brings the story full circle as it features guest appearances by English and Joyce Martin Sanders, of the Martins, who join Jason for an all-new version of this song.

Crabb’s voice has been heard on Christian AC radio in recent months surrounding “Let Mercy Hold You,” a song produced by Cash and written by Fieldes, Mosley and Alexa Willis, that has turned heads at this format. “What the Blood Is For,” produced by Haun, is a power ballad that includes a 40-piece orchestra and features an unmistakable vocal from Crabb indicative of the sound that has made him a household favorite. “What I’ve always loved about Jason’s vocal performance is the passion you hear and feel from the first note of each song,” describes Haun. “You have no doubt that he really believes what he’s singing. You can’t miss that powerful interpretation with this song.”

The title cut is a favorite of Crabb because of his own family’s journey over the past two years when his wife, Shellye, suffered some health issues that led her to several specialists to seek advice before she was able to get back on her feet. Jason recalls what day-to-day life looked like for their family as he describes this song, “This was a hard road for us. There were days she couldn’t get out of bed, and I watched her struggle as she was having trouble being the wonderful mother that she is. It was difficult and heartbreaking. But then I watched her fight back. I watched what happens when love is stronger. I watched God move and her persevere. When I heard the lyric to ‘Love Is Stronger,’ I knew immediately this song was for us. It was like the writer knew our story.”

And that story continues to unfold as Crabb’s career continues to reach new heights. In 2012 he toured over 150 dates; released Together Again (Gaither Music Group) with The Crabb Family; appeared regularly internationally on tv; performed on Marie Osmond’s Hallmark Channel Show, “Marie”; prepared to make his film debut in the movie “Inspiration Pop”; contributed the theme song to the film “Finding Faith”; co-hosted the GMA Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and appeared several times on FOX News Network. Crabb was able to participate in Nashville’s annual Bella Bash supporting The Angel Wings Foundation, Nashville’s annual The Bridge to Christmas event as well as a Christmas benefit concert alongside Sandi Patty in New York that benefited the victims of Hurricane Sandy.

Love Is Stronger, exclusively distributed by EMI CMG Distribution, is currently available for pre-sale at www.JasonCrabb.com, iTunes, Amazon.com and at www.gaither.com. At LifeWay Christian Stores, consumers can purchase an advance “single CD sampler” and return to the store on March 12th to obtain the full release. The release will be positioned prominently in stores nationwide in the months ahead and will be featured on CTS, Family Net, FFE, GAC, Grace, Vision, RFD, TNN, TBN, Airtime, CTN, Gaither TV, The Walk TV (formerly Legacy), Miracle, TCT and TLN.

Connect with Jason Crabb: www.jasoncrabb.com, www.facebook.com/jasoncrabbmusic and www.twitter.com/jasoncrabbmusic.

About Jason Crabb:
Grammy® Award winner and 17-time GMA DOVE Award winner Jason Crabb has become known as one of the most respected and diverse vocalists in Christian music. His soulful, heartfelt vocals have made him a critics’ pick and a fan favorite on stages ranging from “The Grand Ole Opry” and the Brooklyn Tabernacle to the Gaither Homecoming arena platforms. In 2012, Crabb was honored to be awarded with not only the Artist of the Year Award at the GMA DOVE Awards but also the Male Vocalist of the Year Award in addition to the Soloist of the Year Award at the NQC Music Awards. With a string of number one hits and chart-topping singles, a tour schedule of over 150 dates annually, ongoing tv appearances and an all-new recording, this vocal powerhouse’s talent is topped only by his genuine personality and concern for others.

Track Listing for Love Is Stronger:
1. Give
2. What The Blood Is For
3. Let Mercy Hold You
4. Living Life Upside Down
5. Love Is Stronger
6. Morning
7. There’s Not A Crown
8. God’s Up To Something
9. Love Wins
10. Near
11. Satisfied

JASON CRABB KICKS OFF 2013 WITH NEW SINGLE “WHAT THE BLOOD IS FOR” AND PREPARES FOR NEW RELEASE, LOVE IS STRONGER, TO HIT STREETS MARCH 12

Nashville, TN – Grammy® Award winner and reigning GMA Dove Awards’ Male Vocalist and Artist of the Year JASON CRABB, is set to release his brand new single, “What the Blood Is For,” to radio on January 21st. The song, written by Ronnie Freeman and Tony Wood, serves as the first single to southern gospel radio from the forthcoming project LOVE IS STRONGER, releasing on March 12th.

About Jason Crabb: 
Grammy® Award winner and 17-time GMA DOVE Award winner Jason Crabb has become known as one of the most respected and diverse vocalists in Christian music.  His soulful, heartfelt vocals have made him a critics’ pick and a fan favorite on stages ranging from “The Grand Ole Opry” and the Brooklyn Tabernacle to the Gaither Homecoming arena platforms.  In 2012, Crabb was honored to be awarded with not only the Male Artist of the Year award at the GMA DOVE Awards but also the Artist of the Year Award in addition to the Soloist of the Year Award at the NQC Music Awards. With a string of number one hits and chart-topping singles, a tour schedule of over 170 dates annually, ongoing tv appearances and an all-new recording, this vocal powerhouse’s talent is topped only by his genuine personality and concern for others.

“Memories” with Libbi Perry

 ”Memories With Libbi Perry Stuffle”

Written by Laura Kennedy

SGNScoops Magazine, July 2012

One of six children, Southern Gospel’s most beloved alto singer recently allowed SGN Scoops the privilege of some talk time. Singing, as Libbi is quick to share, has been her whole life; “I had just turned seven. We started singing on Christmas day, 1970 after the loss of my 13 year old brother, Johnny, that previous July 30, 1970. The Perrys decided to go full time after the loss of my baby brother George who was also 13 at the time of his death on June 5, 1982.”

The Perrys, in the mid 1980′s, signed with former pianist for the Happy Goodman Family, Eddie Crook on his Morning Star Records label. Libbi later met and married Tracy Stuffle who would then become the group’s longtime bass singer. For over 40 years and throughout various personnel changes, the group has not only been well received, but is one of the leading Mixed Groups in the industry today.

In my opinion, receiving awards and recognition is evidence of diligence to a skill and craft.  In southern gospel music, the most important ingredient to the success of any writer, musician, or vocal artist is the rich indwelling and guiding force of the Lord Jesus Christ.  And when the Lord allows, an artist can touch and deeply affect the spiritual walk or even awakening of their listener. Libbi is that kind of artist. And as such, has been awarded Singing News Fan Awards for the 2005 Female Vocalist and Alto Singer Of The Year and the 2006 Alto Singer of the Year.  While at the 2009 National Quartet Convention, Libbi was voted Favorite Alto in the 2009 Singing News Fan Awards. Both she and The Perrys received 11, Top 5 nominations in the 2010 Singing News Fan Awards for Favorite Artist, Mixed Group, Male Vocalist, Female Vocalist, Horizon Individual, Young Artist, Alto, Lead, Songwriter, Album, & Song. And most recently, Libbi was awarded Singing News Fan Awards, for the 2011 Favorite Alto of the Year.

Clearly, the traditional tone and strength of Libbi’s voice is what makes her a fan to many. When asked how that particular quality speaks to her, Libbi replies; “It overwhelms me! I never dreamed in a million years that people would even consider my singing anything to be awarded for. To say that I am honored would be an understatement!”   Read more »

STOWTOWN RECORDS ANNOUNCES NEW ADDITIONS TO ARTIST ROSTER

(Nashville, TN – November 7, 2012) – Ernie Haase, President of StowTown Records, proudly announces that Dove-nominated music trio, Beyond The Ashes, has signed a recording contract with StowTown Records. The news was shared on-stage during a Nashville, TN area concert featuring Ernie Haase & Signature Sound and Beyond The Ashes.

Haase commented: “On behalf of myself, Wayne Haun, and the entire staff of StowTown Records and Provident/Sony, I want to say that we are excited to announce the signing of a new and energetic group of young guys to our family. Beyond The Ashes joined the StowTown family. Beyond the Ashes epitomizes what we here at StowTown Records are all about: quality gospel music performed with class and wonderful, time-honored traditions mixed with a fresh new approach. We are very proud to be working with this fine group. Beyond The Ashes is now working on their first StowTown Records release slated for spring 2013.”

Anthony Facello, owner/manager of Beyond The Ashes stated: “Over the last several years, we’ve seen God move in big ways our ministry, but when the door opened for us to be a part of Stowtown, it felt like more than an open door. It’s truly a dream coming to life. Beyond The Ashes has always had the utmost respect for Ernie Haase and Wayne Haun. Their talent and reputation for making great music precedes itself. To be invited to join a label family that has such amazing quality and wonderful people is an absolute honor. We want to say thank you, first to GOD, for leading us to this moment, and second to Ernie and Wayne for believing in the heart and ministry of our group. We are really excited about all that’s ahead with Stowtown Records.”

Additionally, it was announced that Devin McGlamery has also signed a recording agreement with StowTown, and is currently in the studio recording a solo project due in 2013.

Formed in 2010 by Ernie Haase and Producer/Arranger Wayne Haun, StowTown Records has quickly become a leading independent label and is distributed through an exclusive agreement with Provident / Sony Distribution..

The announcement came at a recent standing-room-only appearance where Paul Harkey made his Nashville, TN debut with the group. The energy and excitement could be felt throughout the room as the audience received a “first-listen” to this talented young man. Haase says: “This was one of Paul’s very first appearances with the group and I know he was nervous but you couldn’t tell it at all! All of our Nashville friends and family welcomed him with open arms – just as we’ve seen night after night!”