July 04, 2006

GOSPEL LEGEND ANDRAE CROUCH CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF MUSIC WITH RELEASE OF “ MIGHTY WIND”

Andrae Crouch, one of the most enduring and talented reigning Masters of gospel music, has released his first CD in eight years titled, MIGHTY WIND. The album is being released on Crouch’s Slave Records imprint through a new deal with Verity/Zomba Gospel. The release of his latest project also marks 40 years in the music ministry for this prolific Producer and songwriter.

Max Siegel, president of Zomba Gospel, says “Andrae Crouch is a musical gift to the world. His songs are timelessly powerful, and his influence crosses all barriers. It is an honor for Verity/Zomba Gospel to be his new label home.”

“Recording MIGHTY WIND was truly a labor of love, and the songs were born directly from my experience as both a pastor and an artist,” explained Andrae. “I looked to God for his strength, guidance and encouragement and I was joined by some very gifted artists and friends that helped make recording it even more special. I’ve found a dream home in Verity Records for my artistry and music, and people have told me MIGHTY WIND may be my best recording ever, so I couldn’t be more happier.”

MIGHTY WIND features 14 songs produced by Andrae Crouch and Luther “Mano” Hanes. The first single, “I WAS GLAD” is heating up at radio. The CD also features “All Because of Jesus” with a guest performance by Pastor Marvin Winans, and “O Give Thanks” which features Fred Hammond. Other guests on the album include Karen Clark-Sheard, Crystal Lewis, Tata Vega and saxophonist Gerald Albright.

Crouch has penned some of the most seminal songs in gospel music. At the age of 14, Andrae wrote one of his best-known compositions, “The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power.” Some of his other classics include “Through It All; Jesus is the Answer,” “It Won’t Be Long; Take Me Back,” "My Tribute” (To God Be The Glory),” “Soon & Very Soon,” and many more.

Andrae’s gift of music allowed him opportunities work with the likes of Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones, Diana Ross, and Elton John. Who can forget the rousing rendition of “Maybe God’s Trying to Tell You Something,” from The Color Purple (featuring Tata Vega on lead), or the theme from the NBC sitcom Amen.

Crouch, who is credited with revolutionizing the sound of contemporary Gospel music, was one of the first black Gospel artists to crossover to mainstream contemporary Christian music, and his songs have become staples and popular hymns in churches all around the world. He has performed in over 68 countries including England, Germany, Holland, Sweden, Finland,Norway, Japan, South Africa, and his song, "My Tribute," has been covered over 600 times.

In 1996, Crouch’s songs were the impetus for the Grammy Award- winning CD, Tribute: The Songs of Andrae Crouch, which featured a range of artists performing some of his classic songs including the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, Take 6 and Michael W. Smith.

Andrae Crouch has won numerous awards and honors over the years including eight Grammy Awards, three Dove Awards, and ASCAP, Billboard and NAACP Awards.

In 2004, he became the only living contemporary gospel artist -- and just the third in history -- to have his star enshrined on the prestigious Hollywood Walk of Fame. In 2005, Crouch was the recipient of NARAS' Inaugural Salute to Gospel Music Lifetime Achievement Award.

Although Crouch is at a pinnacle point in his global musical ministry, he continues to inspire audiences and remains a force to be reckoned with the release of Mighty Wind.

Track Listing
1.) I Was Glad
2.) I Was Glad-Reprise
3.) All Because of Jesus
4.) All Because of Jesus-Reprise
5.) Jesus Is Lord
6.) Bless The Lord
7.) Bless The Lord-Chant
8.) Oh Give Thanks
9.) We Give You Glory
10.) Come Home
11.) Holy
12.) Thank You for Everything
13.) Yes Lord
14.) Mighty Wind

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