POWER SOURCE MAGAZINE - DECEMBER 2023

A Tenfiftyseven Media Magazine December 2023

THE REASON

JUSTIN TODD HEROD

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Hi there

WELCOME TO POWER SOURCE MAGAZINE

THE REASON for the Season is the meaning behind when WE SAY MERRY CHRISTMAS. It is a time to gather friends and family around for a WHITE CHRISTMAS and to encourage our loved ones to FOLLOW THE STAR. May we always give thanks for THE GIFT from our Heavenly Father. Remember YOU ARE NEVER ALONE even if you have to say, I’M NOT A GOOD BOY. As we bring in 2024, shout it loud to all you know that it is a NEW YEAR, SAME GOD! Did you like that letter greeting? Read all about in this Holiday Issue of Power Source Magazine. JUSTIN TODD HEROD, an award-winning singer songwriter musician and minister gives us insight to his highly acclaimed Christmas Album...THE REASON! We are so honored to share this incredible blessing with you!

All that and all your favorites pack the pages along with the Power Source Christian Country Top 40, you can download the playlist of the chart each month on YouTube or Spotify! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Be Empowered,

Cece Owens Mandy Hall

Monica Walker 3

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Artist Spotlight

The music of CAIN quickly became a mainstay on radio since their debut single, the RIAA Gold® certified "Rise Up " was released in early 2020. Raised in Hartselle, Alabama as pastor's kids and now residing in Nashville, CAIN - Madison Cain Johnson, Taylor Cain Matz, and Logan Cain - got their first break opening for Dave Barnes and Andrew Ripp at a show in 2012.

Now more than a decade later, they've headlined their own tour, along with sharing the stage with Zach Williams, Casting Crowns, TobyMac, the K-LOVE Christmas Tour, and performed on the Grand Ole Opry stage. The group also hosted the 2023 K-LOVE Fan Awards. CAIN will continue their headlining tour in the fall of 2023, the "Live And In Color Tour.

They've hit No. 1 back-to-back at radio with their first two singles, "Rise Up (Lazarus)" and "Yes He Can," both songs from their first full-length album Rise Up. Additionally, their viral single "I'm So Blessed" took over the streaming front, amassing more than 1M streams for every week so far in 2023. Because of its social media popularity, more than 200,000 people have created their own videos using the music of "I'm So Blessed," accounting for 300M additional views on social media and growing their social media reach by 185%.

In November 2023, their latest single release, WINDOWS DOWN landed #1 on the Power Source Christian Country Chart!

POWER SOURCE MAGAZINE SALUTES CAIN!!

CONGRATULATIONS!

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Power Team.

Publisher TenFiftySeven Media Group Editor in Chief CeCe Owens Deputy Editor Monica Walker Senior Editor Mandy Hall Contributors Corey Lee Barker, Rebecca Higgins, KristeNicole, Monica Walker, CeCe Owens, Gene Reasoner, Shane Roark, Justin Todd Herod, William Harris.

Chief Photography Editor Ben Gibson Contributing Photography Cheryl O'Neal, CeCe Owens, Mandy Hall, Monica Walker, KristeNicole

Publishers Note: Content, Logos and Images are the property of or in use with granted rights exclusively to PowerSource, A TenFiftySeven Media Magazine. Use of these creative properties without written approval by Power Source Magazine, LLC. or TenFiftySeven Media, LLC. is strictly prohibited.

SUBSCRIPTIONS www.PowerSourceMagazine.com PowerSource@TenFiftySevenMedia.com The Power Source Magazine is published by TenFiftySevenMedia Group

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THE REASON A New Arizona GODLY WOMAN Congitatin with Gene POWER SOURCE TOP 40

Songwriter's Cafe The Gospel Truth A New Arizona Ways to Give On The Road Reads

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Got Music Ready?

h t i w e s a e l Re ! s t l u Res

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REACTING… Never in the history of the world has knowledge and information been so abundant and easily accessible. We are educated by many sources whether we seek it out or not. Information comes to us from everywhere.

I am a man.

I was born a man, in God’s image.

The media is a constant source of information. However, the disturbing thing to me is at some point, the media decided to influence our sensibilities of right and wrong. It seems they have an agenda to make wrong become right, right become wrong, and when there is resistance to that, to judge those resisting as intolerant and hateful. Morality is constantly being redefined and our life principles questioned and ridiculed.

I’m attracted to a woman, not a man. God made me that way.

In recent years, I’ve struggled to sort out my personal feelings and emotions concerning some of these issues. I’ve never been a hater and I’ve become increasingly annoyed at Evangelicals who lash out hatefully at the LBGTQ community. I recognize the utter failure of the church to show God’s love to those people.

I believe when we accept His love, it changes us.

Social media is constantly flooded with haters who condemn anyone who doesn’t believe like they do. How do I react? Should I speak out?

I don’t let my feelings control me.

Recently on one of the Sunday morning television shows, I watched a story about a Hollywood star who is producing a movie about a husband and wife raising a young transgender son. The producer in real life is a gay man married to a man. The director was born a girl and later became a man and of course the movie is portraying the story as perfectly normal life in America. Really?

C’mon man!

When I’ve done all to stand, I stand.

I’m trying not to let my emotions motivate my feelings here. I’m a seeker of truth and I’m trying to figure out how to react in love and at the same time not let my moral compass be disoriented. I’d rather not have to deal with any of this but it’s a reality we have to fade.

I know right from wrong.

I love God, family and country.

I want everyone to know God loves them as they are.

It’s God’s job to change people, not mine.

My responsibility is to love, not to judge.

When things stress me, I rest in Him.

If you don’t agree with me, I’m ok with that. I’m not right about everything. I have many flaws and imperfections. In the end, I believe the truth will prevail. The truth will set us all free and bring perfect peace. We have that to look forward to.

Peace.

Cogitate on this…

I have many questions. Should I speak out? Is it time to draw a line in the sand? There are lots of things I don’t have figured out, but I feel I need to reaffirm a few things.

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The Reason for the Season is talked about every Christmas, and was the inspiration for the critically acclaimed album, THE REASON, from Justin Todd Herod.

This past year, the intent or meaning of a song from the artist and songwriter has become a topic of conversation, at times controversial. We at TenFiftySeven Media and Power Source Magazine have the unique blessing of knowing directly from the artist or songwriter about the inspiration, story, and process behind the song. Now, we get to share that with you as JTH takes us all through every song on this incredible album. Words can never express the gratitude for this deep dive behind the music afforded by Justin Todd and Rainee Herod. We know that you will be blessed and inspired.

Justin Todd Herod is an award-winning Country singer, songwriter and guitarist from East Texas who has written and produced 10 Country, Christian Country and Blues albums and has toured the US full time for over 20 years. Out of all the talented artists from Texas, renown home of talented country artists, what makes Justin unique?

Well two distinct qualities: Justin lives and breathes classic country, especially the great classic country influences he grew up with. Artists like Merle Haggard, George Jones, Waylon Jennings and Johnny Cash, along with his country heroes from the ‘80s and ‘90s, from George Strait to Keith Whitley. Justin’s passion is to keep that same classic country alive. In an era of new country Justin has found a big following of fans who feel just the same! Justin is unique, but he is real, genuine and authentic just like the music he grew up on and the values he was raised on. Along with being a die-hard classic and positive country artist, Justin is a family man and has deep Christian values. His live shows are tailored to reach the whole family and provide entertainment for all ages to enjoy. Along with a great band and emotionally touching original songs, Justin provides a very positive message from stage and is personally warm and engaging to his fans.

Justin is happily married to the love of his life, Rainee, and many of the songs he has written are for her.

Justin’s music is real, raw and from the heart, grown from his deep simple country roots, and his true love for the simple people and places he knows so well. His songs speak to the working man, the farmer, the soldier or the one living in that small town. But most importantly, to the broken and hurting that need to know the love of Jesus Christ, which is the MAIN point and desire of his music.

Above all, JTH is a Pastor/Evangelist at Trinity Church located in Palestine, TX where his driving passion is communicating the Gospel. He shares the road and life with his other passion, Rainee Rae Herod. Together they share the Word in a raw, genuine, real life application way.

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Power Source Magazine salutes Justin Todd and Rainee Herod!

THE REASON

By JUSTIN TODD HEROD

This is the title cut and for good REASON pun intended!!

We all live hustle bustle lives and Christmas time is the peak of stress and pressure. As I was experiencing this during that rush of a particular Christmas season, I was really compelled to say something. Sitting down at the piano, a sense of regret, frustration, and even sadness was in my heart. Also a sermon of sorts on the real meaning and purpose for this time of year. Although, Theologically speaking, Jesus was not born at this time of year, historically we still supposedly celebrate His Birth. This is supposed to be the Reason but it many times IS NOT. ONE of the true jobs of the songwriter is to communicate a message, evoke a feeling or even offer a provocation to think, reflect, and change.

This song is that in substance. All three verses and choruses of the lyrics present all three of those jobs in one song. “The Reason,” provides two sides to the MAIN REASON for our observance of Christmas.

One side is negative and the other all positive which is The Reason Himself…Jesus Christ.

In verse and chorus one, the lyrics deal with the current frustrations of losing your joy in the midst of the madness of commercialism. Addressing the issue of commercialism, competition, and the loss of meaning and purpose. Each year it seems to drive us deeper into a negative view of the season instead of the real REASON .. which should be to remember the true reason as the joy we should have all year.

The second verse and chorus are a reflection of the innocence found in a boyhood Christmas of a lower middle class family with very little in the way of monetary gifts but very wealthy in the greatest gift ...LOVE. One line says “I wipe a tear from my eyes when I think about leaving.” Leaving the innocence and simplicity of love...which is the essence of what and who Christ is. I cannot go back in time, I go back in my mind and heart within these memories and lyrics. I pray the song listener will as well.

The Reason is not the money that you're spending, it's the love that's been given ...case in point.

The third verse and chorus confronts the emptiness in the heart felt by many people during this time of year. “The ole yuletide has left you needing, the answers right in front of you all you gotta do is turn your eyes on Jesus for the HOPE you had every season” These lyrics deal with the loss of hope that cannot be found in gifts or money, only in the hope of Christ and trust in Him. It's not the “magic” of Christmas as strategic marketeers proclaim but it's “the HOPE we believe in'' These closing lyrics hopefully offer a remedy for the hopeless heart.

A beautiful 7 foot Baldwin Grand Piano offers a rich voice and simple heartfelt solo to help the message into the heart! Acoustic guitars and sparse precision with the beautiful backing vocals are the needed additions to bring this song to life.

So what is the Reason for this whole Christmas album?

I believe the first and title song explains it well.

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WHEN I SAY MERRY CHRISTMAS

By JUSTIN TODD HEROD

“When I Say Merry Christmas,” is my next favorite song most of all because of its intent.

Let me explain. As a songwriter, I have never ever worried about being politically correct, never have and never will. As a Christian, I am deeply concerned about the truth. I also am not controlled by a record label or company telling me what to say, likewise I am controlled by God who has clearly told us what we should say.

As far as I know, to this day, we have freedom of speech under the first amendment. We live in a country as woke and filtered as it is.

It has not affected some of us… This song is an example or an INTENT as a songwriter to reaffirm those freedoms, values and use the wonderful Holiday season not as a place of retreat but advancement to share the beautiful, powerful Christmas message!

I did not write this song out of rebellion or spite or just to be a radical free speech fanatic. It was written with deep concern for Christians and our concern for the lost. It was written for Christians and their desire and ability to be courageous and forthright in their convictions. I am a Christian and and I still say MERRY CHRISTMAS! But as this song says ..what I really mean to say is do you know Jesus?

This line sounds out of style and out of culture but if we truly believe in the birth of Jesus and what Christmas is supposed to be about, wouldn’t we want people to know Him? If we celebrate His incarnation and coming to this world as the baby in the manger wouldn’t we want people to know Him as the full grown GOD MAN savior? If we say only happy holidays how is that different from any other holiday? I realize everyone on the earth are not Christians and I am not trying to force my “religion” on them but in turn I am not the type of writer or person who will cower at the sake of being politically correct or dictate how I speak from my heart. As the song says in the first verse “ I didn’t mean to offend but that's just who I am so no use to pretend” Why should we? or better yet why do we?

Surprisingly many times people are happy to hear your beliefs if spoken in the right spirit of love and truth. I have personally seen many times in the Christmas madness where MERRY CHRISTMAS has opened the door to encourage the hurting, reach the broken, and heal the painful in a time where many people are in need for hope. Oddly enough Christmas is a difficult time for many people and having the true message of hope which we have as Christians can many times be engaged by just the simple two words…

MERRY CHRISTMAS. I know many people will potentially disagree with me in the music industry .. I am an artist, a writer, an actor, a musician and a minister… Yet I maintain my stand on my freedom of Christian speech. I have more than likely extracted myself from larger opportunities musically or otherwise because of this but isn’t that what true art should be? Isn’t that what a true expression should be?

Isn’t that what true Christianity should be ?

When you listen to this song please understand it is not a proselytizing endeavor, it is not a dogmatic diatribe, it is not an "in your face like it or not i don’t care" mentality …. it is more a I do care mentality .. I care about the true meaning of CHRISTMAS and I am saddened to see the diminishing zeal for the SAVIOR in which it was intended … there's that word again INTENT !!!

My INTENT in this song is summed up in the simple bridge and last chorus : “ Those two words still mean everything to me , and each and every year I hope you know exactly what I mean….. When I say Merry Christmas, what I really mean to say is do you know Jesus is not just a happy holiday cause He’s the REASON that we celebrate this HOLY SEASON, so don't turn and walk away …

When I Say MERRY CHRISTMAS! Ronnie Milsap was a big influence on me .. I wrote this from a very country music perspective although it doesn’t have any fiddle, steel, or me bending strings on a telecaster. It is a piano driven album and the big full major and minor chords on the big Baldwin grand offer a country feel that I hope you enjoy and are maybe a little provoked by its INTENT ……MERRY CHRISTMAS

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FOLLOW THE STAR

BY JUSTIN TODD HEROD

This is a song that in its first layer of meaning is taken from the biblical account in Matthew chapter two of the Magi following the star to the place of Jesus’ birth. This is a beautiful account, but once again the song bears a deeper personal meaning.

The wisdom of a mother guiding her son through spiritual insight. Following the guidance of the Lord in the same way the magi were led. Not by a star but by the one to whom the star led. A favorite Christmas story from my childhood now coming to life and portrayed in my wanderings from boyhood to manhood.

As a songwriter the art of metaphor is often employed to drive home a point, this is the case in “Follow The Star.”

Verse one is very personal about my life and the instruction and memory of this beloved verse and the memorable voice of my dear mother. The line “wise men still seek Him’ testifies to the wise instruction of a praying mother.

The choruses are the most important element personally to me …”you can't trust your heart it will lead you astray.” The first line opens up the idea of not following your own desires or even instincts, but to follow as the magi did something very tangible… the voice and leadership of God and ultimately it leads you to the answer ….

Jesus! You see for yourself as the magi did, that He alone is the one you surrender to, love, adore, and bring your greatest treasures to …. your life, your heart, your worship.

The second verse is more universal dealing with as the opening line states “ once more it's Christmas time and you’re all alone “ The lostness of humanity searching to find their way to peace and hope ... .the old story comes back into play even in the lives of others who need direction.

My idea and hope for this song is not to bring sentimental feelings but feelings of deep spiritual truth to those who have lost their way. Christmas is oftentimes a time of great depression, sadness, and loneliness for people even when they will not show it. Provoking the listener to turn to the only reliable source of guidance is my AIM here….pun intended again.

The hook of the song is, “ when you can’t follow your heart ..Follow the star, “ really saying you can’t trust your own heart. As the Bible says, “ it is deceitfully wicked who can know it”? But just as the magi trusted by faith the guidance of the star, it led them to the King likewise we should follow His Spirit's leadership to guide us through the pathways of this life all the way to Heaven.

Once again, the Baldwin brings in a constant melodic hook in the chorus along with the drifting dobro and beautiful backing vocals to help guide the melody as we listen and follow.

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THE GIFT The beautiful Baldwin grand got a break from chords and more arpeggio playing with a pattern of notes, and a simple solo on the high notes! Bigger drums and full strumming acoustic with sweet and heartfelt backing vocals makes this one of my favorites melodically and lyrically….

Jesus is the true gift.

“The Gift,” is a song that oddly started from a melodic idea … this is rare for me as a songwriter.

I have two pianos in my home. The small Yamaha piano seems to feel and play better and is in a smaller room so naturally it lends itself more to sound and inspires me to try and find better melodic ideas.

I don't know if this was better but I really liked where it was going.

About the same time, I was once again really dwelling on the commercial side of the holidays and the pressure and anxiety of purchasing gifts. As the opening line in verse one states “The reason for the season shouldn’t be so unclear” but sometimes it is because of these pressures. Please don’t get me wrong we have grandkids, kids and I adore my wife. I love to give gifts and love getting gifts no different from any other human. It just seems at times, we are so clouded by what's under THE TREE, that we miss what was on A TREE, a tree of misery and shame and pain and suffering ….

Yes, I’m speaking of the cross!

As this song says “ no ribbons or pretty paper just a baby in a manger who grew up for all the world to see…. that the GIFT was hanging on the tree” The true gift was not under the tree nor was it purchased online or from a department store or even made with love at home… it was the baby who grew up to be the man, who was beaten, slain, and crucified on a TREE. Yes, the cross!

Galatians 3:13 says "Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us , for it is written : curse is everyone who is hung on a tree.”

This verse is deeply rooted in the Old Testament denoting shame to those who were hung on a tree.

Jesus redeemed us ...paid the highest price for us with this kind of death thus making HIM the most extravagant gift mankind could ever receive. But he was not a mere gift under a lit up decorated Christmas tree but on a brutal cross of shame, humiliation and ultimately execution. Yes, the most lavish gift ever!

Why do we put so much emphasis on the wrong gifts?

It's not wrong in my opinion to exchange gifts although it really is just a mere tradition. It is fun, was for me as a kid, and especially once I knew how exciting it was for children. But as a songwriter my responsibility, at least for my hope and desire, is to help the listener refocus and re-think. Ultimately draw closer to the true and important meanings in life. I hope and pray this song does that to the listener, all the while being enjoyable melodically and sonically.

I always feel songs should move people lyrically first and foremost… they should convey a message. My wife has two huge Christmas trees in our home. I tend to see them in a different view each year…. I hope we see THE CROSS in a better view, a more grateful view… a more exciting view, the same way we would unwrap a gift as a child on Christmas day, the same way we feel receiving something we don’t deserve but NEEDED oh so badly !!! This is what this song is trying to say: THE GREATEST GIFT was JESUS hanging on the cross!!!! Be thankful, be excited, be grateful!!

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YOU’RE NOT ALONE

By JUSTIN TODD HEROD

The song, “You’re not Alone” originated from just sitting at the piano with some chords, and thinking.

Thinking about how blessed I am to have an amazing wife, kids, grandchildren and my extended family and friends.

Unfortunately, this is not the case for everyone in this time of togetherness in the holiday season.

This music ministry/career has given me the opportunity to go to hundreds of prisons, jails, hospitals, nursing homes and places where people truly understand loneliness.

There is something about the bass notes on a piano that sometimes sound haunting to me, as I was just playing, my heart began to feel saddened for all these people who are alone during the holidays.

I really wanted to say something that would be timeless. Christmas time is once a year and it seems that being alone is certainly more painful during the holidays, but timelessly speaking, many people are alone most of their lives. So, in essence, this song speaks to the lonely heart about the greatest friend and comfort that we could ever have as spoken in Proverbs 18:24 as it says, there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.

Much if not all of this album represents Jesus as the Savior that we celebrate during this Holy season, but this song represents Him as that friend. The first verse begins by addressing people having to go away; business men, soldiers or anyone who has to leave loved ones wishing that they were home. The last portion of verse one speaks of those who may be alone because of their own sin, a shattered life, broken family or just being away from God. This introduces the chorus that simply says, even though your circumstances remind you that there is potentially no one there, someone is praying for you.

The chorus simply says "there's a fire that's burning, there's a light that is shining through, there's a heart that’s yearning ... .someone is praying for you."

Which now leads into the major point of the song. It is our job and responsibility as Christians especially during the holidays to take the focus off of ourselves

and truly be concerned for others and at the very least to pray for the lonely and hurting, to have a heart that is yearning to be the hands and feet of Jesus, even though Jesus cannot personally walk into a lonely room, WE CAN by way of our selflessness and fervent prayers. The rest of the song addresses the sick, the invalid and the inmate who is locked away, along with the same chorus reminding them that hope is not gone because they are not alone. The combined power and influence of the Holy Spirit and we as the people of God, being His hands and feet is really what this song is all about. The simple bridge says, "somewhere out there there's people everywhere gathered around a tree and the spirits in the air, but you can't help but wonder, does anybody care"? It is my prayer that this song will leave an indelible mark upon the listener that someone does care and also a compulsion to the listener to be the one who cares, ultimately it is Jesus and His Spirit that provides both.

This song has received more response than all of the others and I feel it is because of the great epidemic of loneliness and the lack many times of we as Christians to think outwardly toward humanity.

The production on this song is sparse, nothing fancy or spectacular which goes to show that God will use basic and simple things. Likewise, He uses basic and simple people with a very basic and simple message of God’s love to the lonely. Whether the holidays, or any time of the year, the message of this song is always true…..you’re not alone.

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I’M NOT A GOOD BOY

BY JUSTIN TODD HEROD

The song, “I’m Not A Good Boy,” is a “hook” from something my mom used to affectionately say each and every Christmas. As a kid, I was always looking in the Christmas catalog marking pages, and showing my mom all the toys I wished for…we were not wealthy, lower mid class actually, as some of the songs reflect, but my mom always listened and gave me hope that I would get the things I was dreaming of for Christmas. The catch was in the ole saying.” be a good boy”. As hard as I tried each year I still would make mistakes, do poorly in school and sometimes disobey ….

That's human nature right? But as the first lines of the song says “ It's Christmas time and some things never change, I'm still trying still making the same mistakes “

Human nature according to the Bible says none of us are good boys, or good girls, none of us are good men or good women …or good people. Romans 3:23 says “For ALL have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God”. Simply put, none of us are good! BUT we still get a GIFT! One we do not deserve or oftentimes are not thankful enough for. This song is driving a particular point home thoroughly… that we are sinners, and we need the gift of grace. And as the pre chorus states "and even though I don’t deserve it right now I need your mercy… cause I’m not a good boy” In a world of Christian songs where writers are trying to make us feel good about ourselves, where are the songs that make us feel bad about ourselves? In the world of songs talking about how great God is and how much he blesses and cares and provides, why not a song that exposes our greatest need? The need that was met at the birth of the Savior WHOM we are supposed to be celebrating this time of year. The need for forgiveness! But we can't understand God's goodness in this capacity until we see our badness.

What is the opposite of good? It is bad and it seems in this culture we are not told from the Bible's perspective that we are sinful that we are not good. Romans 3:10 says “there is NO ONE righteous, not even one.” But yet we still get the gift.

The main theme of this song however is human effort…why?

Because just like the little boy (me) is trying but failing. He is falling short of being good enough to even deserve anything.. and as the bridge says “ gathered around the tree and the gifts are all exchanged … it's so clear to me that I don’t deserve a thing.” When I see all my failures and all of my mistakes Lord I still need your grace “ GRACE we need it, we must receive it even though we don’t deserve it we still get it as a gift. Ephesians 2:8-9 says clearly “ For by grace you have been saved through faith. It is the gift of God, not as a result of works so that no one may boast. One thing that

will NOT happen in Heaven, you will NOT boast how you save yourself! You did not earn it , you’re not GOOD enough it was given to you !

Now, in the chorus the Gift is addressed. We want so many things, especially at Christmas. Just like the little boy (me) wishing and dreaming of all the toys I wanted I really did not need them...Like I would need a coat or clothes or socks etc. Oftentimes we do not get too excited about things we need, rather the things we want, and this is normal… but the greatest gift of all during Christmas addresses our deepest need. The need for forgiveness and reconciliation with God because we are not good and we cannot be good enough to earn forgiveness; it must be given and received! Isn’t that what gifts are about? But how do we truly celebrate this gift? Well the ending of the chorus concludes with a heart cry of a need of a gift not just a want. It simply says “more than the baby in the manger right now I need the savior to fill this void and bring me joy because I'm not a good boy” My goal as a writer is not to entertain but to provoke thought… Many artists have a different style or calling to write music to provide entertainment, mood, or bring just something good and beautiful to listen to lyrically and melodically, and this is amazing Thank God for the uniqueness of each artist. My desire is as people listen they will think, they will reflect, they will snap out of the routine, they will stop, they will seek truth….. and in the Christmas season especially realize that snowmen, reindeer, elves or Santa Claus DID NOT shed precious blood for them on a rugged cross of death and punishment. On the contrary He gave us the baby in the manger, who grew up to be the savior who then died for all who are not good…..We are not good boys boys….. We need the savior.

Let us focus on HIM! Even though the chords are very simple in this song.. the simplicity hopefully keeps the lyrics at the forefront.

During production in the studio one of the session players made the comment of how it “got to me” made me cry” This is my hope! As a predominant guitar player, the piano is still my dream… it is by far my favorite and most desired instrument to play…sometimes simple is better. The big Baldwin just carries the melody while the acoustic support.

The backing vocals add the needed texture … but it is the message personally and universally that I feel makes this song so special. The baby in the manger is the savior …

The greatest gift for our greatest need.

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WHITE CHRISTMAS

BY JUSTIN TODD HEROD

This original song originated while really listening to the commercial holiday song, “I’m Dreaming Of A White Christmas," which focuses on one of the greatest winter perks.…having a snowy white beautiful Christmas…. A rare occurrence in East Texas. However, it makes for a great metaphor and analogy.

Looking out the window of our home, the view of the brown grass and red shining sun painted very important theological colors in my mind. The only color missing was white. In East Texas, snow is rare, I have never experienced a white Christmas that I can remember. As a songwriter, the lack of white snow caused an instant inspiration in my heart.

The blood of Jesus is the most precious commodity in this world. Isaiah 1:18 states though your sins be as scarlet they shall be white as snow . It is my goal and aim as a writer to paint pictures with words. The red sun, the brown leaves, and grass represent the stain of sin and our need for cleansing. My longing for snow is irrelevant at this point as should be for everyone. The trivialness of Christmas songs honestly irritates me. I apologize as I say this but why do we attempt to celebrate or observe this sacred day and not see these meanings?

The colors of red, brown, and the need for white as it covers the burnt ground and reflects the beauty of the hidden sun all represent the inherent need of The BLOOD OF JESUS !! And we would not have it if the little baby in that beloved manger did not come as God in the flesh to fulfill the awful but victorious work of the cross.

Christmas and the weather are great but the MEANING or REASON for the observance should be on the atoning for sin...the Red and Brown being covered with His precious blood that makes us white as snow.

This song serves as a reminder of the importance of HIS BLOOD and that salvation is powerless without it!

When the commercial song, “I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas” says - “I’m dreaming of snow,” - the inspiration was to in my own way through “White Christmas,” to say “It's more than just a Dream...IT'S REAL…. IT’S HERE,” by way of the real meaning of Christmas. We must see our greatest need beyond the trivialness of the Holidays and understand the gift we have been given through His precious blood. The closing line of my “White Christmas” chorus says “ when He made me white as snow with love and forgiveness every year is a white Christmas.”

It is not my intention to look down on Christmas, I actually enjoy and look forward to it. I feel songs should depart from the norm, change the course of mental, emotional and spiritual aptitude of people. The song should help to think and hopefully refocus on the true meaning. It's good to have the Christmas spirit per se, but what truly is the spirit of Christmas? If it is merely weather, trees, mistletoe, gifts, reindeer, snowmen, and songs that depict only these lesser values… we are truly in need of a PICTURE, a SET OF COLORS to bring us back to the importance of being white as snow. A White Christmas is more than just a dream, it is Jesus and His precious blood.

Once again the big Baldwin piano was covered with major and minor suspended chords, the acoustic guitar and the backing vocals I feel makes this a timeless song ….. I’m so thankful for the white Christmas I experience each and everyday through His precious love and forgiveness.

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NEW YEAR SAME GOD

By JUSTIN TODD HEROD

This is my absolute favorite song on this album … for many reasons First off I am normally and always driven by lyrics and message, but this song is a melodic favorite of mine. Playing piano as opposed to guitar allows me as an artist to find some space and explore a bit and be influenced by people I admire. The chords are simple but most of them are suspended chords which I feel makes them very beautiful to the ears and heart. That being said I think as a writer this is important also to the mood of the song. And this song has a mood.

The big picture in this song is after all of the excitement of Christmas, the lights, the decorations, the food, the gifts …. well it's over and another holiday is coming shortly. Not only a new holiday but a NEW YEAR! With this new year comes many traditions as well : New Year's resolutions , the hope of a brighter future, the long days of winter and the slow times of year especially for music artists. Also the reflection of the previous year, the good and the bad. The calendar year is changing, Seasons are changing and life in general is changing namely age and all it brings. This song encompasses many of these moods and emotions, fears and anxieties as well as memories of brighter times in light of the UNKNOWN future. Although these changes are inevitable, constant and sure they are unpredictable and sometimes disheartening ….. they require FAITH in something bigger than they are faith in the one who controls time and its essence.

I started writing this at my little home piano in our office ( the one my wife says takes up too much space , my better piano is in the den) why do you ask? Because I was experiencing these same fears and anxieties. Coming out of 2020 and the hardships of the political and economic climate most all of us were…so my heart was needing some privacy just to connect with God. With doors shut I began to write from a hook i felt was timely … honestly i read it from a church sign in our area and would look at it everyday as I drove past. It spoke to my heart and brought comfort.

Verse one starts by addressing the failures we all experience … failed resolutions obviously, habits and tendencies we vow to quit but ultimately the imperfections we all have and live with EACH AND EVERY NEW YEAR! Even though we fail GOD DOES NOT ! He is the same hence “ it's a new year same God “ the opening line of the chorus hopefully brings clarity to our worried minds that we all fail but God and His love does not …we change but He does not.

Verse two focuses on metaphor with winter and its barrenness …. for music artists this is a slow and difficult time and for many others as well it is a depressing time ... .we had a seriously cold icy winter (in Texas) and it added to my anxieties. As the verses go, the long cold bare wintertime is overcome by the one thing that does not change. Along with lack comes the worry and doubt of aging. Each year we change and become more and more aware of how we are changing ... .I saw a few more wrinkles that year and more aches and pains aware of the aging process……

I was changing reluctantly but GOD WAS NOT changing HIS care and protection over my health and sanity ….It's a new year but SAME GOD. The bridge is my favorite as it states the proverbial light bulb coming on …… God is faithful at the end and beginning of every year..

He controls time and all it conveys to humanity.

The modulation takes you in a lofty way to the last chorus that deals with "those memories surrounding you and the tears just won’t stop “I lost my dad the year this song was written and along with many other memories it was hard to move on… but God provides NEW MERCIES AND GRACE each and every year .

The beautiful Baldwin grand and the amazing backing vocals added with a nice electric Rhodes piano makes me love the production on this . I pray you will listen and be reminded of the constant unchanging love and faithfulness of God each and every year.

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THE TRADITIONAL SONGS

By JUSTIN TODD HEROD

HARK! THE HERALD ANGELS SING On this project I chose ten traditional classic Christmas hymns. All of these were selected with lyrics in mind. It seems like every Christmas more and more, especially on radio, these special songs are becoming more rare each and every year. If we celebrate the birth of a savior at least we should hear and remember some of the beautiful theology of the season we celebrate. So here goes ten of my favorites. I hope they are yours.

First is one of my favorites : Hark the herald angels sing Written by Charles Wesley in 1739.

This is a beautiful song about reconciliation “ Peace on earth and mercy mild God and sinners reconciled” It is a song about the incarnation and the virgin birth, God veiled in flesh “Incarnate Deity” This is a masterful sermon with all verses pointing directly at man's depravity and Gods fully and completed reconciliation to ALL who would receive His precious Gift. When I read the lyrics in their entirety, tears filled my eyes as well as hope filling my heart, that Christmas with all of its commercialism could not be robbed of its true meaning if this song could be heard.

There are five original verses but i chose the first two for time sake and they are a perfect reminder of the REASON, the GIFT, The ONLY ONE who reconciles man to a Holy God.As the second verse beautifully says “ Pleased with us in flesh to dwell Jesus our Emmanuel!!! Have you thanked Him, praised Him, thought of Him in this way during Christmas Time ...if not I believe this beautiful song will help. May we along with all the Holy Angels Sing …Glory to the newborn KING! Just a simple arpeggio with prominent bass notes from the Baldwin piano, and nice full chords from the acoustic…with backing vocals all it needs… the words say it all.

O COME ALL YE FAITHFUL This song is by far one of many favorites of Christmas carolers and is covered by many artists and I'm glad it still gets heard this time of year.

I wanted to do something different melodically and give it more of a country piano feel. But that is second to the amazing lyrics of this WORSHIP song. Yes! It is a song of PRAISE! A song of praise and adoration …WHY? as the last verse says “ Son of the Father now in flesh appearing.”

Its praise to the one who has appeared...Titus 2:11 says “ For the Grace of God has appeared bringing salvation to all men” This should be our main reason to praise, not because of that new piece of jewelry or the new clothes, or any gift we receive but praise for the most precious gift…

The gift of salvation.

The song says in the chorus “O come let US adore Him, O come let us adore Him ... .But the Title says “ O Come All Ye Faithful” . Question .. are we faithful to praise Him? are we consistent in worshiping Him for Who He is not just for what we get? Hebrews 13:15 says “Through Jesus Christ then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is the fruit of our lips that acknowledge His name" It also says “Joyful and triumphant” are we truly joyful over our salvation and its triumph over sin and death? Habakuk 3:18 says “ I will rejoice in the God of my salvation” Are we truly doing this ? Rejoicing in THE GOD of our SALVATION!! Sing in Exultation …Glory to God! Glory in the HIGHEST! O come let us adore Him …O COME ALL YE FAITHFUL! It is my prayer that after listening to this song and hearing and understanding just what God has done for us through the finished work of Christ our Salvation....we will be faithful to adore, praise, sing and worship Christ The LORD. I tried to put a different spin on this song melodically. I hope it was not a distraction but a way to enjoy it musically as well, simple chords but with big suspended minor chords and a slightly different timing. Guitar , piano and a Djembe makes it simple but worshipful. Adore Him!

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THE TRADITIONAL SONGS

By JUSTIN TODD HEROD

LITTLE DRUMMER BOY Come they told me, pa rum pum um pum……these words still echo in my heart from my days as a young boy living on a ranch in a middle class family with an old black and white T.V. in our living room. I was fascinated by the little Claymation show that would come on every Christmas Eve. As much as I enjoyed it and dreamed of playing the drums, something about it made me cry. I think it was because even in a child's mind I could relate to that little boy. Even as a fictional song and movie it bears great truth in some very subtle but profound imagery. This is my absolute all time favorite Christmas song, but why you may ask? Because like me this little boy did not have much to give, one of the lines in the song says . “our finest gifts we bring, to lay before the king, so to honor Him when we come.” In my young mind I could not understand until later in life the beautiful message this would imprint on me. Coming from very little to being somewhat successful we sometimes forget those special, simple homemade gifts, cards…those things from the heart. In this song the little boy says, "I have no gift to bring that's fit to give our king”, and it’s at this moment that true giving from the heart emerges. He says, “Shall I play for you”, “I played my drum for him, I played my best for him”.

When I am performing this song live, it's at this moment that I always begin to cry, just like the little boy watching that black and white T.V. so long ago. The next line says, “Then He smiled at me, me and my drum. The reflections from my past, not being wealthy enough, good enough and later making so many mistakes is when I realize what that emotion is all about. It is about the heart. It is about the one thing that the King wants. In the midst of frankincense gold and myrrh with wealthy kings bringing the most expensive gifts there we are poor and at loss of what to give…. then He smiled at me … almost makes me cry writing this. Why ? because just like that homemade gift or homemade card the little boy brought the most precious gift he had…..his heart. It was simple but it wasn’t cheap. Giving Jesus all of our hearts cost the most. It takes the most effort to unwrap from all of the layers of pride, shame, unworthiness, selfishness etc. But once it's unwrapped it is beautiful to him. Some of the greatest gifts given to me were in paper sacks, wrapped in newspaper or even in a Wal-Mart bag. Unwrapped and free from distraction, open for all to see…but most importantly given with the whole heart. This is what this amazing song says to me. Jesus wants your heart!

Many times in our Christian life we try to bring Jesus everything; our works, our good intentions, church attendance etc.…none of these are wrong.. but what He really desires is our heart. To give our best to him does not require wealth or prestige, but like the little boy giving all we have of what we have. I know this song is usually a children's song, and here i am at 58 years old and still crying every Christmas, still feeling at a loss on how to live this crazy life of ministry, music, preaching, and pastoring people. In my mind I pick up my little drum and like a child I begin to play ..’pa rum pa pum pum” with all my heart. I tune out all the lights, sounds, and distractions and focus on the king. I pray He is smiling at me. I pray this year you will stop and realize the importance of your greatest gift. Give Him your whole heart…unwrapped and exposed for all the world to see. Tear away the pretty bows and paper and make it real…Trust me the heart is not a cheap gift it is the BEST you can give. Play your drum for Him for all to hear, unashamed and bold…..make Him smile...pa rum pa um um!

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THE TRADITIONAL SONGS

By JUSTIN TODD HEROD

WHAT CHILD IS THIS

JOY TO THE WORLD

This magnificent song was not intended to be on the project, but when you’re in the studio with the legendary Milo Deering, and he picks up a nylon string guitar and a cello, there are no other options! Words can not describe how masterful this man truly is as a player, this is chiefly the main reason that I did not play on it…some things are better left unhindered.

There is a haunting sound and feeling in this song because it is asking a question, a question that should haunt us. We need to know, we absolutely have to know who this child is, but unfortunately many do not. This song provides the question and the answer, it is my hope as an artist in the songs I write, to provoke thought and although I did not write this song, my prayer was that I could sing it and interpret it in a way to make this question burn in people's hearts. It simply says, what child is this, it describes the child as one who is noticed by angels and shepherds, surrounded by oxen and lambs. Wisemen bringing gifts. Mary knew, the shepherds knew, the wise men knew, but the question still remains, do you know?

This was another song arranged while being trapped in a hotel for two days, when ice and snow layers the streets and interstates in Dallas, Texas in the dead of winter, it’s hard to have any joy. But in my little hotel room I began to read the words to this powerful praise hymn. There are a lot of words in this song but its main theme is strictly saying that everything praises him. Fields, floods, rocks, hills and plains repeat the sounding joy. it dawned on me while reading these lyrics that if those inanimate objects can praise Him then why can’t we? Later on in the song it says, let earth receive her King; so many celebrities, athletes, music artists, politicians and the like, receive so much adoration on this earth while the true King often receives very little. While things of this world, and its little kings that we worship may provide some joy ... it is very fleeting and temporal.

On the other hand this song points us to the true king who can provide lasting joy! It is funny to me that fields, floods, rocks, hills and plains repeat the sounding joy ... .but sometimes we don’t.

The chorus gives the definitive answer, and the response, ”This is Christ the King", “Haste Haste to bring Him laud”.

Once we truly know who He is, there should be no other response but to bring Him praise with all of our hearts.

Philppians 2:7-11 describes Christs’ humble incarnation but also God’s exaltation of Him and exclaims that someday every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.

I believe it boils down to, we get our greatest joy when we worship the true King, for He is the only one who can bring joy to the world!

It is my prayer as you listen and sing along that you direct our attention to Him and as the song says, “Heaven and nature sing”, that we should immediately sing along.

This song also has a drum loop, for the same reason, all the players were gone and I arranged it in a hotel, it is nothing like the original.

In my room on that snowy, icy day, I guess in my own way I was trying to worship the King, joining in with heaven and nature singing, "Joy to the word, the Lord has come, let earth receive her King’.

One line in the song simply says, “Let every heart prepare Him room”, won’t you make room in your heart for the King and receive the greatest joy during this Christmas season.

Of all the things during the Christmas season that we should know are wrapped up in this song. Who is this child? Do you know Him not only as the child but as savior and Lord, this song pleads with us to know Him in His humility while there is still time. The haunting sound of the cello is almost like a voice beaconing for us to respond. As I said I did not play on this, but I worshiped as I sang it thankful that I know this child who is the King. Do you?

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THE TRADITIONAL SONGS

By JUSTIN TODD HEROD

THE FIRST NOEL This song is intriguing because some people may not know what Noel even means. Honestly I thought I knew but after research realized the sheer importance of the word and the SONG! Noel comes to us from the Latin verb nasci meaning "to be born" The book of Ecclesiastes refers to Jesus’ birth as “natalis”and variation of this word “nael” was used in old French in reference to the Christmas season and later in Middle English as nowel meaning "feast of Christmas or Birthday” With all of that being said this is a very straightforward song related to this obscure word.” Noel, Noel Noel Noel born is the king of ISRAEL” Yes the King of Israel and the birth of the King in Israel with all of the characters in the song being in the land of Israel BUT it is much more!! He is the KING OF GLORY born in a simple manger with no place to lay His head. Wise men guided by a star (follow the star) searching and looking for a KING !!! Are we looking, are we searching, are we traveling, following and desiring to see the KING. To see Him to celebrate His Noel! The first announcement and proclamation of His arrival.

In our modern day culture we send out a birthday invitation or an announcement and we hope people we invite will come… we may even put a map or GPS directions on the announcement.

Sadly sometimes people are too busy to come or too preoccupied with other things. The Shepherds and the wise men are a pattern for us to follow and we can learn from them how to recognize the most IMPORTANT announcement…. The NOEL! The first Noel… important enough that angels sang about it, a star lit up the sky for it, people dropped what they were doing to attend it, walking and risking it all to attend the greatest birthday of all!!

The birth of the KING!!

I remember hearing Steve Wariner's acoustic version of this song and loved it ( who wouldn’t) even though I was tempted to try a variation instead I played a very simple walk down pattern on the keys with minor chords cascading down. I also played a Wurlitzer on this just to add some texture. I love the “wurly” and use it a lot on songs. It just beefs up the layer, the finger picked acoustic and echoes of the backing vocals INVITE you to come and worship the King!

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O LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM O Little Town of Bethlehem is a very simple song; chords, melody and even lyrics, but it's a beautiful story not just of a person but of a place. The place of Jesus’ birth, the whole story is simple, the town was simple and of course His birth was simple. But in the midst of this simplicity we see the everlasting light, and the hopes and fears are met in Thee tonight. These are the lyrics that keep repeating and as simple as they are, they are powerful.

I am from a small town, Elkhart, Texas to be exact, where everything is simple, not many people of notoriety have come from there, but in the case of the little town of Bethlehem, someone of the GREATEST notoriety was born. Jesus Christ the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords bringing the everlasting light, diminishing the fears and bringing hope for all the years. Came from Glory, imagine He came from regal Glory all the way down to a small town born of a virgin, this special song is simple yet very detailed because it highlights the virgin birth of Christ our Lord. As the song says, “Oh morning stars together proclaim they Holy birth we should never forget that God still uses simple things to do the most magnificent, and we should praise Him for it each and every Christmas season, in the big city or the small town….He is still the King of Kings!!

Now, what else I mean by simple is the melody. While sitting in a hotel in Dallas, Texas it snowed and iced in between studio sessions, I sat my keyboard up and tried to find a way to interpret this song, simple but different. It is the only one that I used strings on from a Yamaha keyboard and oddly enough it has a drum loop.

The reason for this was that all of the players were gone and I arranged this song in the hotel and tracked it the next day by myself. The rolling walk down in minor keys is very different from the original but I found out it’s still simple. No matter how you change it, it’s still just the beautiful story of a small town. The echoing angelic vocals whispering, let there be peace on earth make you feel like you are right there in that little manger in that little small town. It is my prayer that as you listen you are taken away from the hustle and bustle and bright lights and you can feel that peace each and every Christmas season.

THE TRADITIONAL SONGS

By JUSTIN TODD HEROD

O HOLY NIGHT This is probably one of the most beautiful SONGS I believe in all of the Christmas songs, mainly because of the chords, but the LYRICS! WOW !

Once I read them in their entirety I was so enlightened.This song is not just about the night of His Holy birth but the outcome and effect of it.

Verse three is a constant reminder of the effect of this GREAT SALVATION of this HOLY NIGHT! It's like a story in verses one through three. We have a need “Long lay the world in sin and error pining” Needing a solution , “Til He appears and the soul felt its worth,” WOW! Have we felt the worth of who He is …”The thrill of hope a weary world rejoices,” Have we felt the thrill and rejoiced for the relief of this weariness? It is my obligation even when covering a song to try and interpret the meaning, emphasize the theme, and this great story from beginning to end has so much.

The effect and result of this great salvation is featured in the last two verses “ born as our friend and to our weakness is no stranger “ His great love for us brings the only comfort we can truly rely on and should produce in us the result found in verse three. “ Truly He taught us to love one another His law is love and His Gospel is peace” If we are given such a great gift we must be GIVERS of great gifts. If we are given great LOVE we must show GREAT LOVE! Now getting back to those great chords.. what a well balanced melodic song. Heavy minor chords repeating four times back to back in each chorus.” Fall on your knees O hear the angels voices” then big major chords “ O night divine when christ was born” Minor/ Major back to back.

Masterful! As usual I wanted to do something different so I played a fast arpeggio on the high notes which carries the song throughout. Singing this one is a challenge but I love the added backing vocals of the amazing Heather Little, a wonderful singer songwriter from East Texas. No matter how it's played I hope we share in the effect of that HOLY NIGHT!

AWAY IN A MANGER The arrangements on this song really came from the heavy influence of James Taylor from my early years. I originally arranged it from acoustic guitar and it is very repetitive, I think mostly because I still see it as a children’s song although it is not restricted to that, it has that sweet persona. it even mentions, “ Bless all the dear children in thy tender care.” Sometimes as adults, we forget that we are His children and we get inhibited and forget the sweetness of singing about stars in the sky, cattle that are lowing, cradles and little babies sleeping. As I said, this song is repetitive, like a lullaby. I believe what I was trying to do was make it a lullaby, something to soothe the hectic and tortured soul that happens throughout the crazy holiday season.

Before recording this I witnessed a group of small children singing this as I played this melody on my guitar while singing at a church Christmas special. The innocence and sweetness from their little voices were like a lullaby to my soul. As I travel singing and playing through the Christmas season sometimes it is fast paced and like many others my soul needed this beautiful lullaby. I am not making light of this song by calling it a lullaby, it is filled with deep doctrinal truths especially the last verse that simply says, “And take us to heaven to live with thee there”, I can't think of a better promise as a lullaby for the hurting heart. Just a simple repetition of chords, simple acoustic guitar, the cajon and djembe were all it needed, I simply just let the piano walk its way through. I hope you become a child again while listening with gratitude that you are HIS child. A special line in the song says, “stay close by me forever, and love me I pray." Jesus loves his children, the greatest lullaby of all times.

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THE TRADITIONAL SONGS

By RAINEE HEROD

SILENT NIGHT Merry Christmas y’all, it’s Rainee, I asked my ever so amazing hubby if i could write a little something about this most beautiful song and he of course said, “heck yeah Angel!”

I have always held this song near and dear to my heart because it’s such a peaceful piece, so calming to my soul and spirit, and every time I hear it my imagination goes to the most serene of Christmas scenes. As I researched the origins I was surprised to find that it was originally a poem written by Joseph Mohr, an upcoming musician and priest from Austria, the date was 1818 in a turbulent period in Europe. The church organ had gone on the fritz so he called upon the church organist to find an alternative instrument and relevant melody to accompany the lyrics; it resulted in what was titled, “Stille Nacht! Haulage Nacht!”

For this tiny Austrian town, this song spread its soothing effects after war torn and traumatized times with lines such as, “All is calm, all is bright '', and “Sleep in heavenly peace”. I think that's exactly why this song has held that effect for more than 200 years, it was written from wreckage and fear and brought to life the absolute peace that only comes from our Savior. How precious, and time stopping, and tender is the birth of a new child, as new momma and her gift rest together in peace and nothing thwarts that, its timeless perfection! So goes the line, “Shepherds quake at the site! Glories stream from Heaven afar, heavenly hosts sing Alleluia! Christ, the Savior is born, Christ, the Savior is born.''

Come on y'all, that’s good stuff right there!!

The final, and icing on the cake verse clearly states, “Son of God, loves pure light. Radiant beams from thy Holy face, with the dawn of redeeming grace. Jesus, Lord, at thy birth, Jesus, Lord at thy birth”. The deity of Christ, to leave his regal heavenly throne to become flesh here on earth to bring the sinful world beautiful redemption!!! What a gift we received, what absolute PEACE in knowing that His humble yet royal birth insured our lives in eternity!!!!!

So when I say this song brings peace to my soul and my spirit, it's not only the imagery of a log cabin in the woods, snowflakes falling, fireplace roaring, big comfy blanket, Christmas candle smelling, hot cocoa in a beautiful mug kinda comfort…..it’s the thought of my beautiful, sweet Savior who came so silently and quietly, so humbly, meek and mild, but all God to bring me tranquility like i’ve never known, so that i may sleep in heavenly peace at Christmas time and always.

Love to all and Merry Christmas

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CHECK OUT THESE ALBUMS ON ALL MUSIC PLATFORMS! BEST MIX OF ORIGINAL AND TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS SONGS!

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As we close 2023 thinking on all the ups and downs of this past year, we focus with prayer on the new year of 2024. Check out this video and add this song to your playlist, as it will remind us as we go through 2024 that we serve a God that will be there every step of the way and with him...WE ARE UNDEFEATED!

WorldofDPB.com

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THE REASON

Justin Justin Todd Todd Herod Herod

O LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM Chris Chris Tomlin Tomlin

THE ANGELS CRIED

IT’S ALL ABOUT A BABY PLAYLIST

Alan Alan Jackson Jackson

LIGHT OF THE WORLD

Lauren Lauren Daigle, Daigle, Mike Mike Redbeaur Redbeaur ft. ft. Abbey Abbey Haddix Haddix

THE MANGER

Anne Anne Wilson Wilson ft. ft. Josh Josh Turner Turner

HARK THE HERALD ANGELS SING Elevation Elevation Worship Worship

GO TELL IT ON THE MOUNTAIN Zach Zach Williams Williams

JOY TO THE WORLD Home Home Free Free

DO YOU HEAR WHAT I HEAR For For King King & & Country Country

NOEL (HE IS BORN) North North Church Church

BEHOLD THE SAVIOR Meredith Meredith Andrews Andrews

WHAT CHILD IS THIS Justin Justin Todd Todd Herod Herod

JESUS CHRIST IS BORN Mac Mac Powell Powell

A BABY CHANGES EVERYTHING Suzy Suzy Nash Nash

MARY, DID YOU KNOW Pentatonix Pentatonix

O’ HOLY NIGHT Home Home Free Free

BECAUSE OF BETHLEHEM Matthew Matthew West West

RING THEM BELLS

Ben Ben Fuller, Fuller, Jonathan Jonathan Taylor Taylor 29

Rank

Song Title

Artist Name

#1

GOD WON'T LET YOU DOWN

KRISTENICOLE

#2

Numbered

The Forthner Brothers 4 Christ

#3

Windows Down

CAIN

#4

Fight Like Heaven

Flynt Adams

#5

Love To The Rescue

Flint Thompson

#6

God's Up To Somethin'

John Norris

#7

How I Learned To Pray

Charlie Worsham Ft. Luke Combs

#8

Man On The Middle Cross

Rhett Walker

#9

Parking Lot

Cochren & Co.

#10

Bethlehem, Virginia 1 BC

Steve Bridgmon

#11

Whiskey And A Prayer

Landon Heights

#12

Ain't About You

HunterGirl

#13

If Not For You

Chris Golden

#14

Letter From Heaven

Tim McGraw

#15

High Above The Midnight Sky

Richard Lynch

#16

Strong

Anne Wilson

#17

Church Pew

Riley Clemmons

#18

Hallelujah Anyway

Charley Beathand

#19

If Daddy Didn't Have A Truck

Cody Webb

#20

The Power Of A Second Chance

Justin Todd Herod

#21

All Praise To Christ

Austin Ridge Worship, Clint Hudson

#22

Songs Of The Family

Deryl Dodd

#23

Let Me Be Known By My Savior

Doug Pinson, Aaron Crane

#24

God's Good Grace

Tim Settle

#25

Still

Dierks Bentley

#26

Glory Days

Gabby Barrett

#27

Worried Man's Worship

Kelly Alayna

#28

By And By

Brandon Rowell

#29

Heavenville

Tim & The Glory Boys

#30

You Get To Me

Delnora

#31

Jesus Is The Door

Matt Winters

#32

Mustard Seed

Jayson Gold

#33

Small Town Girl

Victoria Steelman

#34

I Found Grace

Craig Hendricks

#35

Horses In Heaven

Matt Nolan

#36

Fishes And Loaves

Josiah Queen

#37

Nowhere Prayers

Jasper Charles

#38

Talking To Jesus

Brandon Lake ft. Thomas Rhett

#39

Johnny and June

Greg McDougal

#40

When God Paints

Alan Jackson

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1.

The Power Source Top 40 is compiled by online engagements, playlists, and spins of multiple platforms. Information is collected over a 30 day period with a maximum 100/ minimum 60 songs submitted to the Power Source Panel for final determination of placement on the chart. The panel criteria includes spins, engagements, production, vocals, and message of lyrics.

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TENFIFTYSEVEN MEDIA PROMOTIONS

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TENFIFTYSEVEN MEDIA PROMOTIONS

DANNYHMUSIC.COM

PLUS NEW CHRISTMAS SONGS

“JOSEPH” & “ONE LITTLE BABY”

“I KNOW YOU’RE WITH ME” 33

TENFIFTYSEVEN MEDIA PROMOTIONS

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TENFIFTYSEVEN MEDIA PROMOTIONS

The Power Of A Second Chance

Justin Todd Herod

35

TENFIFTYSEVEN MEDIA PROMOTIONS

Unwrap the sounds of the season's Reason www.JTHMUSIC.ORG

AVAILABLE ON ALL PLATFORMS 36

TENFIFTYSEVEN MEDIA PROMOTIONS

KALEBWILLIS.COM

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With Corey Lee Barker A Few Reminders For Writers As We Go Into 2024

BMI doesn’t automatically know that someone cut your song. You need to register it and give them the iSRC code for the recording, so they can track it:) If the artist forgot and doesn't know what it is…. you can usually find it by going to ISRCfinder.com after it’s been released.

Buffet finder does not help your figure.

You need to send your mechanical license to the artist and have them sign it before it is released. Some distribution platforms won’t release it in 2024 if that hasn’t been taken care of. This is actually a good thing for writers otherwise you may never receive your payment that is rightfully yours. The going statutory rate set by the government is 12 cents. An average indie mechanical license is $120 (prepay for 1,000 units to be divided amongst all the publishers and writers of the song equally), but you have the ability to set the limit for a first time release to whatever you want it to be as the publisher. Some larger publishing companies have a 15,000 unit prepay.

I don’t recommend that, as most people need their taco money.

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Don’t eat beans before riding on an elevator.

You are not receiving all your money from digital spins in the US if you are not signed up with themlc.com as well. It is free to sign up as a publisher so get’r done:) You’ll need to register your songs that were recorded there as well, as BMI, ASCAP and Sesac don’t share their info with the mlc. It is a separate organization.

Calling someone a stupid idiot is wrong!

There aren’t any smart idiots so you’re just being redundant.

Unlike the old days where you only registered a song with your PRO… when it gets recorded by someone, you’ll want to do that right away now that performers can turn in their setlist to their PRO’s after they play a show and get paid for songs they co-wrote. You don’t want to miss out on free money when an artist or co-writer is playing a song you wrote at the Mexican Restaurant or Nissan stadium!

Spelling “racecar” backwards is a waste of time.

If you want to pitch your music to TV and film you’ll need to Learn how to add metadata to an mp3. If you have a mac, simply single click on the song in your itunes and hit “command” and “I” at the same time. The metadata screen will pop up so you can type in the writers, artists, publishers, their pro’s, the genre, the BPM, and your contact email / phone number. Music sent without metadata will be deleted 99 times out of 100. They don’t have time to guess who sent it in the future.

Save your tracks without vocals as well. Not only is it mandatory for pitching to tv and film but if you change a line in the future you don’t want to have to hire the band to come back and record it all over again for one blooper.

Don’t write a song called “Christmas without you”. It’s been done 6,467,344.2 times, if you don’t count mine.

Make sure to have a reverb, soundcloud or some other page where the songs you are pitching have a digital link. Some companies/artists don’t want mp3’s and you have to honor their pitch reference when sending music or they won’t listen.

One ply toilet paper should be illegal. Who is that really helping!

Find the best singer possible for your demos. Not the cheapest. Their is no substitute for excellence and you don’t need to give the artist an unnecessary reason to say no.

Eggnog tastes better with whip cream, a ginger cookie and stretch pants.

Merry Christmas my creative friends:)

www.CoreyLeeBarker.com 39

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GODLY WOMAN

HOPE TO THE WORLD

By KristeNicole It’s a Tuesday night. I find myself in the midst of ordering Christmas presents, decorating the tree, and cooking a yummy delight in the oven, its delicious aroma filling every corner of the house. Of course, I can’t do any of this without some Christmas music playing in the background. In my mind I’m celebrating Christmas at my grandparents’ house.

The radio was always playing in the background, adding to all the seasonal vibes of the occasion.

For King & Country’s version of Joy to The World comes on and I crank up the volume. I soak in the rich lyrics of this Christmas Classic written in 1719 by English minister and hymn writer Isaac Watts.

Joy to the world, the Lord is come, Let earth receive her King, Let every heart prepare Him room, And Heaven and nature sing.

We’ve all heard the phrase “Jesus is the reason for the season.”

But what was the reason for Jesus to even come to earth and be born in less than desirable conditions?

Genesis 3:17-18 says “Then to Adam He said, ‘Because you have listened to the voice of your wife, and have eaten from the tree about which I commanded you, saying, ‘You shall not eat from it; Cursed is the ground because of you; With [a]hard labor you shall eat from it all the days of your life. Both thorns and thistles it shall grow for you; Yet you shall eat the plants of the field.”

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When humans decided to disobey God, sin was born and cursed us into a broken world. This sin meant that God’s creation was no longer able to remain in close communion with Him. Instead, it was left to a harsh, sin drenched world.

We live in that same world today. However, we now have the birth of a baby born in Bethlehem, Jesus.

He is the one whom we celebrate this season. We celebrate the hope & redemption that He has provided to those who say “yes” to a life with Him. The hope of Jesus spreads as the song goes “far as the curse is found”.

Sin has permeated all of existence. However, through the work of Jesus, the Heavenly Father’s love, mercy, and forgiveness is available to all who ask.

So why did Jesus come to earth into our broken mess as a baby? To restore and make a way for us to once again have a personal relationship with God. Being a follower of Jesus means more than lights on the tree. It is a light in our hearts that points us past the grave, past the pain and sorrow of this cursed world all because of a baby born in Bethlehem.

Let Heaven and nature sing, Let Heaven and nature sing, Let Heaven and Heaven and nature sing!

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A NEW ARIZONA

By REBECCA HIGGINS As we have just commemorated the 82nd anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor there is exciting news for those interested in the ships of our Navy. It has been announced that two submarines are to be built that will be named the USS Arizona and the USS Oklahoma. Neither of these two names has been used since the attack on December 7, 1941.

The US Navy has had three ships named Arizona previously. It was the third Arizona that was commissioned in 1917 that was built at the beginning of World War I and was subsequently sunk in the opening salvo of WW2 by Japan. 1,177 crewmen were lost when she exploded after her magazine was hit by a bomb dropped during the Japanese air raid.

She was not able to be raised and is now one of the most famous battlefield monuments in the world.

The first Arizona saw action in the Civil War. She was an iron-hulled side steamer built in 1859. This first Arizona had an exciting history in the Civil War as she was seized by the Confederates and used as a blockade runner, then recaptured by the Union as she attempted to make a run from Cuba to Mobile, Alabama. She served with distinction for the Union until February of 1865 when fire broke out aboard and she sank near New Orleans with a loss of 4 of her 98 crewmen. There are efforts underway to locate her and preserve her artifacts. The second Arizona was a frigate that was never completed.

The keel for the new Arizona (SSN-803) was laid down December 7, 2022. Her sponsor is Nikki Stratton, who is the granddaughter of Donald Stratton. Mr. Stratton survived the attack on the Arizona and lived to be 97, passing away in 2020. He wrote an excellent memoir titled All The Gallant Men. His Granddaughter, Nikki, will be the ship’s “Godmother” and will get to Christen when she is ready to sail as part of the US Navy.

The keel for the new Oklahoma has not yet been laid. She will be only the second ship named for Oklahoma by the US Navy. The First Oklahoma served in WWI and then was sunk by Japanese torpedo bombers during the attack on Pearl Harbor. She famously capsized in place. Although some survivors were able to be cut from the overturned hull, 429 crew members were killed. She was salvaged and decommissioned. In 2006, one additional piece of the Oklahoma was brought to the surface during dredging operations in the harbor. It is probably a fire control support mast from the port side of the ship. It is now on display in Oklahoma.

Both of the submarines will be Virginia class attack subs. These are nuclear powered fast attack submarines that carry 28 Tomahawk missile tubes. This class of sub is also capable of delivering special forces soldiers, as well as conducting anti-ship warfare and anti-submarine warfare. The Arizona is being made by General Dynamics at their facility in Rhode Island. It is a great thing to have the memories of these brave sailors carried on and honored by two new ships in our fleet.

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#THEGOSPELTRUTH

SUPERMAN In Luke chapter 12:41-48, Jesus speaks a parable about preparation for the coming of the Lord. He speaks of being ready and steadfast and when no one is watching, He will return. The verse that has often puzzled me is in Luke 12:48…. “To whom much is given, much is required.” We have all been given something, but what exactly? Unfortunately that is not for me to answer for you or anyone else to answer for me. We must all seek out our calling and seek out what God wants us to do with our lives in general.

I am obviously speaking about things beyond the realm of simply being a follower of Christ. What is the “thing” or the “gifts” that we each possess to aid in the preparation of the return of our Lord? In Romans 2:11-16, it speaks of God being no respecter of persons. This particular passage is obviously speaking of judgment, that ALL must be saved, believers and followers and that each one will receive judgment without any variable due to who they are or their status etc..

But could it also mean that everyone has a place in this preparation? Could it be that God sees us all as equal and will give us the proper tools to wage this war against evil that we are in? Could it also be that we already know what we are supposed to do and often run from it? I personally know my place in the big picture and have definitely run away many times over. Every time I ran, chaos ensued and I was miserable. I would imagine as you read those last few lines, you can think of times when you have done the same. It could be as simple as ignoring God when he spoke to you to do something.

What in the world does this have to do with Superman????

Well, anyone who knows me closely (a limited few) knows that I am a huge fan of Superman. Pretty much the whole idea behind Superman has a spiritual undertone to the story. Superman was gifted with great power that he did not ask for. On his home planet of Krypton, the red sun was normal for his people. It did not affect them in any way. No one on that planet had super powers of any kind. As the sun began to go supernova, his parents launched their baby to earth where he was found by humans, the Kents. They adopted him as their own and named him Clark.

Clark’s power came from the sun (see the connection? The Son) and he grew in his power immensely. As he began to study himself (Timothy 2:15) he began to realize his place in the world (Matthew 22:14). He was given these gifts to be of service to mankind. To help and to protect and to love the people. Fully aware of his purpose, he began to do just that. Saving and helping all he could. He spread truth and justice, he spread hope and peace. He used his gifts to assist others who could not help themselves.

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#THEGOSPELTRUTH So much of this fictional story line sounds familiar. It is exactly what we are ALL called to do as Christians.

To love and to show the world the peace of Christ and to help others. We too have those gifts from above and our power comes from the SON. Superman himself however faced a battle inside. He so longed to be “normal”. The world got to him and even his own personal desires got to him. He forgot his place. Although he did not ask for these gifts, they were given to him nonetheless and where much is given, much is required. It was now his place to serve a greater cause than his own emotions and desires. But he battled inside and eventually found a way to run. He relinquished his gifts to become Clark Kent, a man, a simple man that could help in no way to right any wrongs or serve any truth or justice. He found his way to run from who he was destined to be.

What happened next? CHAOS!!

Now you might say, “I am not Superman and this isn’t about me.” Is’n’t it? At any given moment, a simple word delivered with the power of the anointing and Holy Spirit can change a person's entire life. If we run from what we are to do for GOD, we could cause CHAOS in someone's life. Obedience is better than sacrifice. God wants and needs us to be his tools in the battle against evil. It's our place to rise up to that challenge and to NOT run from who we are in Christ.

The story doesn’t end there of course, Superman found his way back and picked up his powers again and set things right. We can all do that too. When CHAOS is all around us, maybe we should look at ourselves first. Are we where God wants us to be? Are we running from our mission? Are we hiding behind a cloak?

Where are we in the CHAOS? Could it be that we have caused it by not being who we are called to be?

God always has a plan and that plan always involves us. We do not always understand why God has us in certain situations and certain times but, we have to trust who we are in Christ and draw from that power.

We have to rise above the CHAOS and bring the truth of God and His justice. We can be the hero of the Word. Doers of the Word, not just those who hear it. Faith is an ACTION and the Word is a two-edged sword. We should be ready and swift and take what is ours from the enemy.

Be the person God wants and needs you to be . We are all called to a higher purpose, running from that will always cause CHAOS. See this race to the end and find VICTORY over evil!!

#THEGOSPELTRUTH WITH SHANE ROARK Shane is the co-owner of Chapel Valley Studios. He started playing sessions at age 16 and worked in multiple studios before launching Chapel Valley. He has been producing music for over 25 years, and is well respected among his colleagues and clients alike.

Follow TheGospelTruth on Facebook!

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Empowering the Passion Brand Marketing Radio/Digital Release Video Production Promotion Public Relations FULL ARTIST SUPPORT

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DPB 3.0

“I’m undefeated; God wrote the pages of my life; I’m undefeated; I am the champion of this fight; you can’t break me; I’m standing on my own; I’m undefeated” The call was scheduled, interview with David Paul Brooks, a billboard charting artist of the unique sound blending positive rap and hip-hop. There is a new release, things happening, gonna be a good chat. Then the call comes in and from “hello,” everything changes. You are on the phone with DPB, entering the World of DPB! The initials clearly stand for David Paul Brooks, but by the end of the talk they will represent Dynamic Powerful Blessed!

DPB started as a solo artist and later became a member of D.O.C. (Disciples of Christ), a Grammy and Dove award nominated group. He has opened for artists such as Rock and Roll “Hall of Famer” Bootsy Collins, Salt ‘n Pepa, Kool Moe Dee, Kirk Franklin,

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Yolanda Adams, King and Country, Unspoken, Dc Talk, Anointed, Deion Sanders, Canton Jones, Toby Mac and many others. He has performed on BET (Teen Summit) Gospel Special.

He has also been the headline artist for many festivals.

DPB has released several albums throughout the years.

His video for the single “Wake Up” has had over 500,000 views and radio airplay around the world. One of his single releases, “Brighter Day” charted at number 15 on the Billboard charts for Christian Rock national airplay.

Another single release, “Feel So Good Today,” has been the 2x most added song on Billboard in Christian Rock National Airplay.

The latest release is UNDEFEATED 3.0 (radio edit), (check out the lyric video in this issue’s Rewind) considered by most to be his best work yet.

The song is a timeless anthem serving testament to strength and perseverance. Every time you hear it, the music and lyrics will empower you. As the song verse expresses, (listed at the beginning of this article), God wrote the pages of your life, you were created to be a Champion.

Released this year, Undefeated 3.0 (radio edit) is not just a song but also accompanied by a mini-movie and picture book that chronicles the threedecade-long ministry of DPB, a.k.a David Paul Brooks.

But wait…there’s more!

DPB is also a songwriter, motivational speaker, clothing designer, author, actor, director, producer, filmmaker, and community mentor.

Now, before there was DPB, there was just David Paul Brooks, born in New York. At age 5, he sang gospel music with his mother and siblings. It was a spiritually led childhood despite any hardships or hiccups, which continues to serve as the foundation of DPBs life. Today, he represents over 30 years of ministry, hence the 3.0 used to celebrate the ongoing journey to not just entertain but give people music that can set them free. The Christian Hip-Hop artist decided to write music that would break down any barriers holding someone back from a relationship with God. And he didn’t hold himself back either. He uses whatever creative avenue to reach others from a clothing line, to films to speaking to all ages, all people about the life changing power of God. “To get youth into reading the Word, I thought maybe if it was a souvenir they would keep a Bible, dig into it,” shared DPB, “so I created a front/back cover that they would want to hold on to and then give them the motivation to open it through the music.” It continues to work as Brooks cannot keep enough in print to meet the demand.

As our conversation continued, it was a time of being awe-struck by the consistent work to reach the lost, the confidence of his reliance on God and something that would not have been describable until he spoke the words. “I find great interest in David,” said DPB, “he walked up to that King and just said, " What do I get when I win.” Exactly as David knew he was a winner because of the God that is with him, that went before him and made a way when there was no other way.

David Paul Brooks, a.k.a DPB is a true example of that Christ-like boldness. He knows, he wants you to know, he wants all to know.

With his music, books, movies, etc., he goes wherever, doing all possible to reach the lost. At times by his own admission into places no others wish to go, but DBP finds a path and leads the wandering back to the unconditional, never failing love of God. Over the past thirty plus years, there have been challenges to overcome and an unexpected tragedy which Brooks refers to as the worst time of his life. Coming out of that time, he made a decision to not be overtaken. DPB chose to get the best out of his life after experiencing the worst of it. That gave birth to authoring his first book, “No Bad Days,” a story to inspire you and a teaching that will give you the skills to see your challenges differently and gain the victory over them. (check this issue of On the Road Reads for more about this must read book) There is truly not enough time or pages to share all about this artist, this man with a heart for reaching the lost. It is also very hard to pick a favorite creative platform of DPB. They are all amazing and what comes next will be even greater, that is a guarantee. We are sharing this with you on the Power Source Magazine platform, so we will give way to the music. To create something in music that transcends age, race, genre, or religion is profound. It is most certainly a God-thing!

Undefeated 3.0 (radio edit) is the latest release, a must for your playlist. Actually, anything DPB is a must and what is to come is simply much anticipated.

Check out the World of DPB on all social platforms and visit WorldofDPB.com.

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POWER SOURCE

CHRISTIAN MUSIC NEWS TRIBUTE

LEGENDARY JUSTICE Former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, the first woman to sit on the high court bench and served for 25 years, died at the age of 93 on Friday morning, December 1, 2023, as a result of complications from advanced dementia and a respiratory sickness.

Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts said that O'Connor "blazed a historic trail as our nation's first female Justice."

FILM

THE JESUS FILM PROJECT

The Jesus Film Project announced an ambitious new project that will introduce the story of Christ to a “new generation” with a feature-length animated film about Jesus set for release Christmas 2025 The new film called simply JESUS, will employ “cutting-edge film technology” and be directed by Dominic Carola, who previously worked in the animation department on Lilo & Stitch (2002), Mulan (1998), Pocahontas (1995) and The Lion King (1994). He co-directed the 2022 faith-based movie Being.

O'Connor was appointed to the court by President Reagan in 1981 and retired in 2006, after serving more than 24 years on the court.

Born in Texas, O'Connor spent her early life riding horses and roping steers on the Lazy B, a 250-square-mile cattle ranch owned by her parents on the Arizona-New Mexico border.

AWARDS

GRAMMY NODS FOR LAUREN DAIGLE!

Multi-platinum artist Lauren Daigle has had a record-breaking year!

Topping the charts including landing #1 on the Power Source Christian Country Top 40 with her hit “Thank God I Do.” This year, Daigle won her twelfth GMA Dove Award, eighth Billboard Music Award, and experienced over five billion streams…

NOW TWO GRAMMY NOMINATIONS!

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POWER SOURCE

CHRISTIAN MUSIC NEWS MUSIC

SHELLEM CLINE SIGNS WITH SQUARE ONE

November 28, 2023 - Nashville TN Square One Records Nashville Tennessee announced today the signing of award-winning Christian Country artist, Shellem Cline Music.

Cline is currently recording a project, set to be released in February 2024.

Square One owner, Barry Lee White stated, "We are honored to have Shellem join our family of standard setting artists in Christian Country."

Shellum Cline added, "I am so excited to be a part of a label that really celebrates their artists! This new record is setting the bar high and I'm so excited to see how God uses this family of artists to build His kingdom."

For more information on Shellem visit his website www.shellemcline.com or his Facebook page @shellemclinemusic. For more information on Square One records please visit their Facebook page Square One Records Nashville Tennessee

TOUR

I DON’T WANT CHRISTMAS TO END

Grammy winner - Zach Williams kicked off the “I Don’t Want Christmas to End” tour. Joined by special guest Riley Clemmons, this one-of-kind holiday experience will present holiday celebration with powerhouse vocals, captivating performances and a whole lot of Christmas.

Visit zachwilliams.com for more information and tickets.

Photo credit: Velasco Visuals

TELEVISION

SMALL TOWN CHRISTMAS IS BACK

December 2022's Power Source Magazine Cover - MEGAN ALEXANDER took to social media to announce the return of Small Town Christmas to her followers. Small Town Christmas previously aired for two seasons on UPtv, but this 3rd season will premiere on a new network, Fox Business Channel, at 2pm/1c. on December 16th and December 23rd.

Join Megan as she highlights the Christmas season celebrations in towns across America.

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POWER SOURCE

CHRISTIAN MUSIC NEWS NEVER FORGOTTEN

GLORY

For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face.

Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. 1 Corinthians 13:12

MYLON LEFEVRE

BOBBY OSBORNE

TINA TURNER

MARK CAPPS

JERRY BRADLEY

CYNTHIA WEIL

JESSE MCREYNOLDS

TONY BENNETT

BOBBY OSBORNE

MICHAEL RHODES

JIMMY BUFFETT

JERRY BRADLEY

KYLE JACOBS

CHARLIE ROBINSON

PETER MCCANN

LISA MARIE PRESLEY

MIKE HENDERSON

DAVID CROSBY

C.J. HARRIS

BUCK TRENT

BURT BACHARACH

GARY ROSSINGTON

RUDOLPHY ISLEY

RAY HILDEBRAND

CALVIN NEWTON

HUEY SMITH

HARRY BELAFONTE

RAY PILLOW

BARRETT STRONG

GRACE BUMBY

KEITH GATTIS

JEFF BECK

BUDDY THRASHER

GORDON LIGHTFOOT

FRED WHITE

ANITA PITTS

Gospel Singer Len Mink Passes Away at 76, Leaving a Legacy in Music, Preaching, and Television Len Mink age 76, passed away Tuesday, November 28, 2023. A celebrated Psalmist, preacher, singer, television host, well-liked on-air personality and broadcaster.

As a Gospel singer, Mink’s vocal talents were unparalleled. His ability to convey emotions and connect with listeners through his music was truly remarkable.

Whether performing on stage or recording in the studio, his voice had an undeniable power that resonated with audiences. Mink’s songs were filled with lyrics that inspired hope, faith, and comfort, making him a beloved figure in the Gospel music industry.

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ON THE ROAD READS A PERSONAL STORY, A METHOD, AND A MOVEMENT...

Regardless of who you are or where you’re from, you will face challenges at some point in your life, but its how you respond to those challenges that can make or break you. “No Bad Days” is a personal story, a method, and a movement resulting from DPB’s decision not to allow an unexpected tragedy in his life to overtake him.

Instead, he chose to turn it into triumph as he learned how to get the best out of his life after experiencing the worst of it. No Bad Days goes beyond inspiration to empowerment and will help you embrace the skills you need to do the same.

No matter how hard your life has been to this point or how many “bad days” you feel that you have had, “No Bad Day’s” will help you to see your challenges differently and gain victory over them. Read the story, embrace the method, and join the movement! #nobaddays

WorldofDPB com .

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IN THE NEXT ISSUE 60

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

2 Corinthians 5:17

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