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Newsboys
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Newsboys (sometimes stylized as newsboys) is a Grammy Award-nominated Christian pop rock band. The band was formed in Australia in 1985 and has been one of the most popular and best-selling Christian music artists of the past two decades.
boys' original core members, bassist Sean Taylor, vocalist John James, and drummer Peter Furler, formed the band in Australia in 1985 along with Furler's guitarist school mate, George Perdikis.
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Encyclopedia
Newsboys (sometimes stylized as newsboys) is a Grammy Award-nominated Christian pop rock band. The band was formed in Australia in 1985 and has been one of the most popular and best-selling Christian music artists of the past two decades.
History
Formation1985
Newsboys' original core members, bassist Sean Taylor, vocalist John James, and drummer Peter Furler, formed the band in Australia in 1985 along with Furler's guitarist school mate, George Perdikis. The band's original name was The News, but once in the U.S. they changed it to The Newsboys to avoid conflict with the U.S.-based band Huey Lewis and the News. The band came to the United States in late 1987 after getting signed with Refuge Communications, and released the album Read All About It in 1988 in the United States. After signing with Star Song Communications, they released two more albums from 1990 to 1991: Hell Is For Wimps and Boys Will Be Boyz. None of the three albums garnered much attention, and the band's lineup changed with every release.
19922000
It wasn't until their 1992 album, Not Ashamed (which featured a re-make of the DeGarmo & Key hit "Boycott Hell"), that the band gained notice in the Christian music scene. The title track of the album became a huge hit on Christian radio and elevated the band's profile considerably. Notably, Steve Taylor, a quirky singer-songwriter and producer well-known within the Christian music community, began a partnership with the band, producing the band's record and writing most of the lyrics for their songs; Furler remained the band's primary songwriter.
In 1994, amidst continued lineup changes (which included mainstays Jody Davis & Duncan Phillips), the band released Going Public, their fifth album and first smash success. The record proved to be a watershed for the group, winning a Dove Award for "Rock album of the Year" in 1995 . It also produced #1 hits such as "Spirit Thing", "Let It Rain", and, most notably, "Shine". "Shine" quickly became an enormous hit and one of the most recognizable songs in Christian music, also taking the 1995 Dove for "Rock Recorded Song of the Year". In 2006, CCM Magazine listed "Shine" in the top ten in its ranking of the 100 Greatest Songs in Christian music. Going Public turned Newsboys into one of the top acts in Christian music.
The eagerly-anticipated follow-up, Take Me To Your Leader (1996), did not disappoint fans, either. The additions of Philip Joel Urry and Jeff Frankenstein finalized a regular roster of musicians for the band and generally showcased a bigger rock sound than in past projects. Because of the large size of the band, their concerts were full of energy with various members trading instruments as well as introducing Peter's rotating drum set. The album produced more #1 hits: "God Is Not A Secret", "Reality", "Breakfast", and the title track. This album also snagged the groups third Dove, this time for "Recorded Music Packaging of the Year" . The album solidified the band's place in the Christian music industry.
In late 1997, John James announced he would be leaving the band to become a pastor and author, however in truth he had found himself addicted to alcohol and drugs . Despite the loss of the longtime frontman, the band pressed on. Furler easily switched from drums to vocals (as he had recorded most of the songs on past albums) and Duncan Phillips, who had previously played keyboards and percussion for the band, became the new drummer. From 1998 to 2003, the band's lineup of Furler, bassist Phil Joel, guitarist Jody Davis, keyboardist Jeff Frankenstein, and Phillips stayed constant. Often, at concerts and festivals such as Spirit West Coast, the band played "Breakfast" as the final song. It was customary for fans to purchase boxes of Captain Crunch and throw the cereal onto the stage, cued by "And Captain Crunch is waving farewell". A Captain Crunch fight between band members would ensue.
When Newsboys released its first post-James record, Step Up to the Microphone (1998), it quickly became clear that the band's popularity was still intact; the album sold well and produced, among other hits, the ubiquitous hit "Entertaining Angels", whose video won the 1999 Dove for "Short Form Music Video of the Year" . During the resulting "Step Up To The Microphone" tour, the band featured the drums on a rotating platform that could tilt downward up to 90 degrees. In fact, there were two sets of drums and Peter Furler (the original drummer) and Duncan Phillips would wear seat belts and have a rotating drum-off. This feature is still used on their tours and has grown to be quite popular.
The band returned in 1999 with the oddly-titled Love Liberty Disco, the band's only album to significantly deviate from their pop rock sound. Featuring 60's era-inspired pop and disco, the album delivered radio single hits such as "Beautiful Sound", "Good Stuff", and "Love Liberty Disco".
2000present
In 2000, Newsboys helped start and headlined the annual, traveling CCM festival Festival Con Dios with Audio Adrenaline and The O.C. Supertones. The festival was known for featuring popular Christian bands and for its motocross stunts.
Also in 2000, Newsboys released a greatest hits compilation, Shine: The Hits, which did not include any songs from the Love Liberty Disco album but included four new songs, two of which ("Joy" and "Who") went to #1. The band did not release any all new material until the spring of 2002 when they released Thrive. Featuring a return to pop-rock, the album also showcased one of the band's biggest hits: "It Is You".
The success of the worshipful "It Is You" perhaps paved the way for Newsboys' first praise and worship album in 2003: Adoration: The Worship Album. The album soon became the band's best-selling to date, based on the strength of singles "He Reigns" and "You Are My King (Amazing Love)". Late in 2003, guitarist Jody Davis left the band to care for his sick daughter, Bethany; he was replaced by Bryan Oleson, who agreed to be a temporary replacement until the band found a replacement for Davis.
The band returned in 2004 with another worship album: Devotion, led by the single, "Presence (My Heart's Desire)". The album was not nearly as successful as its predecessor, one reason arguably being the modest impact the singles had on Christian radio. In 2006, Bryan Oleson left the band to focus on his own band, Casting Pearls(presently VOTA). Paul Colman, a respected Australian Christian singer-songwriter and long time personal friend of Peter Furler, replaced him as guitarist.
The band's latest radio hits came in 2006 with a live version of "I Am Free" (originally written by Jon Egan of the Desperation Band), and "Wherever We Go". On October 31, 2006, Newsboys have released their newest pop/rock record entitled GO, as well as an iTunes GO EP, including the songs "Wherever We Go", "GO", and "I Am Free". The album was the band's first under their new Inpop Records label, and received strong reviews, praising the group's return to its original rock sound. "GO" featured upcoming Christian artist David Eri as a co-writer. Their songs "Something Beautiful" and "In Wonder" were big hits on Christian Radio.
Newsboys music is featured in the Christian video game Dance Praise. "Woo Hoo" from Step Up To The Microphone is included with the game. "You Are My King" and "It Is You" can be added to the song list via the Dance Praise Expansion Pack Volume 1: Modern Worship. "Devotion" can be added to the game via the Dance Praise Expansion Pack Volume 3: Rock & Pop Hits.
In December 2006, Phil Joel announced that he would leave the band to pursue his own projects and albums, bringing his time with the band to a close.
In May, 2007 The Newsboys announced that they will release the remixed version of the hit album "GO" which will include the smash hits "Wherever We Go" and "Something Beautiful. The CD was released on May 8, 2007, featuring unique mixes by famed producers Tedd T., Jeff Frankenstein of newsboys, Max Hsu of Superchick and Lee Bridges. The "GO Remixed" album has been released and is available for purchase.
On November 20, 2007 the Newsboys released their newest album entitled The Greatest Hits. It features newer hit songs like "Wherever We Go," "Something Beautiful," "It Is You," "Million Pieces," and "You Are My King," in addition to older hits like "Reality," "Shine," "Not Ashamed," and many more. The 18 song CD also features two new songs "I Fought the La" (which features the singing of "La's" by the crowd from the Six Flags St. Louis Newsboys Concert of the GO Tour 8/11/2007), and "Stay Strong."
On September 30, 2008, Newsboys released Newsboys Live: Houston We Are Go a CD/DVD combo recording package of the Newsboys Go Tour.
On January 5, 2009, Paul Colman announced he would be leaving the Newsboys to work on his own solo projects. At the same time it was announced that Jody Davis would return to the band, after a 5 year hiatus. He said I am thrilled to be returning to the band and back with my bandmates, who are some of my best friends, says Davis. This is a big change in my life, and Im looking forward to the tour and new record with excitement. Davis had been working in Yuma, Arizona, as a pipe maker.
Newsboys have completed a new studio album In the Hands of God, slated to be released 5 May 2009 on Inpop Records. Max Hsu (Superchick, Toby Mac) produced the album. Steve Taylor co-wrote several songs for the album, and sings on one song.
On 9 March 2009, it was announced on the band's web site that Michael Tait, formerly of dc Talk, is the new lead singer. "Michael Tait will be touring with the band as lead singer with Peter making special appearances throughout the year. Peter will continue with the band and his trademark songwriting and production will remain as he focuses his professional career toward future newsboys recordings."
Every Nation Ministries links
The Newsboys have significant links to Every Nation. The group's former lead singer, Peter Furler, is a member of Bethel World Outreach Center, an Every Nation church.
The Newsboys have also co-authored a book with the chief prophet of Every Nation, Jim Laffoon. A daily teaching by Laffoon, was also given prominent space on the Newsboys' webpage.
Members
Current members
- Michael Tait - lead vocals (2009 - present)
- Peter Furler - songwriting, production (1985 - present)
- Jeff Frankenstein - keyboards, bass, backing vocals (1994 - present)
- Duncan Phillips - drums, percussion, formerly keyboards (1993 - present)
- Jody Davis - lead guitar, backing vocals (1993 2003, 2009 - present)
Former members
Lead vocals
Guitar
- George Perdikis (19851987) Left the band before their first album, but co-wrote most of the songs on it.
- Phil Yates (19871989)
- Jonathan Geange (19901991, 1992) Returned to the band briefly after Vernon Bishop left, before Jody Davis joined.
- Vernon Bishop (19911992)
- Bryan Olesen (20032006) Was only a temporary replacement until the Newsboys could find a full-time lead guitarist not tied up with another project.
- Paul Colman (2006-2009) Left to work on his solo career.
Bass guitar
- Sean Taylor (19851992)
- Kevin Mills (19931995) Left the band to manage White Heart; Died in a motorbike accident on December 3, 2000.
- Phil Joel (19952006) Left band to pursue "personal interests", a solo career, and ministry opportunities; Jeff Frankenstein is currently playing synth-bass on keyboards.
Keyboards
- Corey Pryor (1988, 19901993)
- Nathan Phillips (2007) - Played in only two shows
Major Tours
- Join the Tribe Tour (2009 February to May. With VOTA, December Radio, and Bread of Stone)
- GO Tour "Finale"(3rd and final installment of the GO Tour)w/ Rush Of Fools, Newworldson and Article One
- GO Tour "Encore" (2nd GO Tour with Kutless and Newworldson) (2007)
- GO Tour (2007) (with Kutless and Stellar Kart)
- Winter Jam Tour (2006)
- Adoration Tour (2004) (with Jeremy Camp and Rebecca St. James)
- Thrive-It's All In The Word Tour (2002) (with Superchick)
- Festival Con Dios (2001 & 2003)
- LoveLibertyDisco AirDome Tour (2000) (with SONICFLOOd and Beanbag)
- Step Up To The Microphone Tour (with Third Day) (1999)
- Counter The Culture Tour (1997)
- Take Me To Your Leader Tour (1996-97) (with Plankeye and Geoff Moore and The Distance)
- Going Public Tour (1995)
- Not Ashamed Tour (1993) (W/Code of Ethics and Tony Vincent)
Discography
Studio albums
Remix albums
Compilation albums
Singles
| Year | Single | Album | Hot Christian
Songs Peak | Hot Christian
AC Peak | Spins
(since 1998)
source: Mediabase |
|---|
| 1988 | "I Got Your Number" | Read All About It | | | 4 | | 1990 | "All I Can See" | Hell Is for Wimps | | | | | "In the End" | | | | | "Ten Thousand Miles" | | | | | 1991 | "Simple Man" | | | | | "One Heart" | Boys Will Be Boyz | | | | | "Kingdom Man" | | | | | "Stay With Me" | | | | | "Israel" | | | | | "You and Me" | | | | | 1992 | "I'm Not Ashamed" | Not Ashamed | | | 17,002 | | 1993 | "Where You Belong"/"Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus" | | | 835 | | "Upon This Rock" | | | | | "I Cannot Get You Out of My System" | | | | | "Strong Love" | | | 217 | | "Dear Shame" | | | | | 1994 | "Be Still" | Going Public | | | 1,452 | | "Shine" | | | 29,714 | | 1995 | "Let It Rain" | | | 56 | | "Spirit Thing" | | | 2,353 | | "Real Good Thing" | | | 87 | | "Truth and Consequences" | | | 200 | | "Going Public" | | | 24 | | "Reality" | Take Me to Your Leader | | | 1,636 | | 1996 | "Take Me to Your Leader" | | | 983 | | "Let It Go" | | | 716 | | "Breakfast" | | | 5,236 | | 1997 | "Breathe (Benediction)" | | | 73 | | "It's All Who You Know" | | | 4 | | | "God Is Not a Secret" | | | 120 | | | "Cup O' Tea" | | | 6 | | 1998 | "Entertaining Angels" | Step Up to the Microphone | | | 8,659 | | "Believe" | | | 2,945 | | "Step Up to the Microphone" | | | 480 | | "Woo Hoo" | | | 584 | | "Hallelujah" | | | 135 | "Truth Be Known - Everybody Gets a Shot"
(video only) | | | 7 | | "Shine 2000" (remix) | Entertaining Angels EP | | | | | "Not Ashamed" (remix) | | | | | 1999 | "Love Liberty Disco" | Love Liberty Disco | | | 958 | | 2000 | "Beautiful Sound" | | | 16,878 | "I Surrender All" / "Good Stuff"
(released as a double A-side single,
with the former geared towards AC radio,
and the latter towards the CHR/Rock format,
which ended up as the bigger hit) | | | 90
("I Surrender All")
253
("Good Stuff") | | "Joy" | Shine: The Hits | | | 24,573 | | 2001 | "Mega-Mix" | | | 508 | | "Who?" | | | 5,897 | | | "God Is Not a Secret"
(featuring TobyMac) | | | 38 | | | "Praises" | | | 161 | | 2002 | "It Is You" | Thrive | | | 44,270 | | "Million Pieces (Kissin' Your Cares Goodbye)" | | | 32,744 | | "John Woo" | | | 78 | | "The Fad of the Land" | | | 5 | | "Giving It Over" | | | 5 | "In the Belly of the Whale"
(featuring Steve Taylor) | Jonah:
A VeggieTales Movie
Soundtrack | | | 49 | | 2003 | "He Reigns" | Adoration:
The Worship Album | #4 | #6 | 81,620 | | "You Are My King (Amazing Love)" | #1 | #1 | 70,503 | | "In Christ Alone" | | | | "Adoration"
(possibly not a radio single, but received
enough airplay to make it on the charts during the Christmas season) | #34 | #31 | 1,854 | | 2004 | "Presence (My Heart's Desire)" | Devotion | #4 | #4 | 41,465 | | "Devotion" | #16 | #16 | 16,619 | | | "Blessed Be Your Name"
(featuring Rebecca St. James) | | | 363 | | | "Strong Tower" | | | 97 | | 2006 | "I Am Free" (Live) | GO | #11 | #11 | 18,235 | | "Wherever We Go" | #3 | #15 | 13,561 | | 2007 | "Something Beautiful" | #4
(#5 of 2007) | #6 | 25,448 | | "In Wonder" | #4+ | #5+ | 14,974 | | 2008 | "Yo Ho Hero"
(featuring Steve Taylor) | The Pirates Who
Don't Do Anything:
A VeggieTales Movie
Soundtrack | | | | | "Stay Strong" | The Greatest Hits | #20+ | #21+ | 27 | | 2009 | "In the Hands of God" | In the Hands of God | #16 | #16 | | |
Extended Plays
DVDs and Videos
Music videos
| Year | Title |
|---|
| 1990 | "Simple Man" | | 1991 | "One Heart" (shot at Cain's Ballroom in Tulsa, OK) | | "Kingdom Man" | | 1992 | "I Cannot Get You Out of My System" | | 1993 | "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus (Where You Belong)" | | "Dear Shame" | | 1994 | "Shine" | | 1996 | "Take Me To Your Leader" | | 1998 | "Entertaining Angels" | | 1999 | "Love, Liberty, Disco" | | 2000 | "Truth Be Known (Everybody Gets a Shot)" | | 2002 | "Million Pieces" | | "In the Belly of the Whale" (for the Veggie Tales movie Jonah) | | 2003 | "He Reigns" | | 2008 | "Something Beautiful" |
Awards and nominations
Grammy Awards
- 1992 Nomination for Best Rock/Contemporary Gospel Album
- 1994 Nomination for Best Rock Gospel Album
- 1996 Nomination for Best Rock Gospel Album
- 2003 Nomination for Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album
- Adoration: The Worship Album
Dove Awards
- 1994 Nomination for Short Form Music Video of the Year
- "I Cannot Get You Out of My System"
- 1995 Award for Rock Album of the Year
- 1995 Award for Rock Recorded Song of the Year
- 1995 Nomination for Short Form Music Video of the Year
- 1995 Nomination for Group of the Year
- 1996 Nomination for Song of the Year
- 1997 Award for Recorded Music Packaging of the Year
- 1997 Nomination for Rock Album of the Year
- 1997 Nomination for Rock Recorded Song of the Year
- 1997 Nomination for Short Form Music Video of the Year
- 1999 Award for Short Form Music Video of the Year
- 1999 Nomination for Song of the Year
- 1999 Nomination for Rock Album of the Year
- Step Up to the Microphone
- 1999 Nomination for Group of the Year
- 2000 Nomination for Long Form Music Video of the Year
- One Night in Pennsylvania
- 2001 Award for Special Event Album of the Year
- City on a Hill: Songs of Worship and Praise (Various Artists, including Peter Furler's "Unified")
- 2001 Nomination for Short Form Music Video of the Year
- 2003 Nomination for Long Form Music Video of the Year
- Thrive: Live from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
- 2004 Nomination for Group of the Year
- 2004 Nomination for Praise & Worship Album of the Year
- Adoration: The Worship Album
- 2004 Nomination for Song of the Year
- 2004 Nomination for Worship Song of the Year
- 2005 Nomination for Praise & Worship Album of the Year
- 2007 Award for Artist of the Year
- 2008 Nomination for Album Of the Year
Billboard Music Video Awards
- 1999 Award for Best CCM Video
Intl. Angel Awards
- 1995 Award for Video
- 1999 Award for Video
Nashville Music Awards
- 1999 Award for Favorite CCM Album
- Step Up to the Microphone
- 2000 Nomination for Contemporary Christian Album of the Year
SESAC Awards
- 2000 Award for Christian Songwriter of the Year
External links
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