Billy Graham Inspired Album, 'My Hope,' Featuring Michael W. Smith, TobyMac, Amy Grant, Israel Houghton, Kari Jobe, Matthew West And More To Release In October

Article By: Anna Dinger

A new album, 'My hope: Songs Inspired By The Message And Mission Of Billy Graham,' is set to release on October 15, through Capitol Christian Music Group. The album will feature 12 brand new recordings by artists like Michael W. Smith, TobyMac, Amy Grant, Israel Houghton, Kari Jobe, Matthew West and more.

Merge PR released a press release earlier today, July 17, announcing the upcoming album release. In addition to the above-listed artists, the album will feature music by Newsboys, Tommy Coomes Band, Nichole Nordeman, Darlene Zschech and Lacey Sturm.

The project will work in tandem with the 'My Hope America with Billy Graham' evangelistic outreach as well as Graham's upcoming book, 'The Reason For My Hope: Salvation,' which will also be released on October 15. This book will emphasize the truth in the message of Christ and touch upon bringing people back into their faith and inspiring them to share this faith with others. The new book will grapple with the question, 'Who would refuse rescue?' "The message of this book is my hope for you," Graham said, according to the press release. "And my prayer is that you will be filled with the dividends of joy and peace in believing that you can abound in such hope that rescues from all that hinders, bringing you into a living hope of salvation."

Billy Graham's evangelistic outreach program, 'My Hope America,' is a nation-wide effort to bring the Gospel message to people across the U.S. It utilizes video programs and powerful personal relationships and interactions in order to get this message across. Beginning in November 2013, people across American will band together in order to communicate this message with others. "Launched in 2002 by Franklin Graham, President and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, My Hope has been implemented in 57 countries to date, with more than ten million people making a commitment to Christ," according to the press release.

"This is such a great project," Michael W. Smith said of the upcoming album, according to the press release. "Everyone has come together out of our tremendous love and respect for Billy Graham. The impact he has had on all of us and the impact he has had on eternity is immeasurable. This is our attempt to pay honor to someone who has been an example, a mentor and an inspiration to all of us. I'm excited about the artists that are a part of the project and I'm excited about the thoughtfulness behind each of the songs. I think it truly is a collection of music that honors this great man."

Each of the artists that will be appearing on the upcoming album have had some kind of special connection with Graham and his ministry. "On a summer day in the Chicago suburbs in 1990, a thirteen year old kid was changing the channels on his TV, looking for a Cubs game. But instead of a baseball game that day, he found a Billy Graham crusade. That young boy was me, and I will never forget the day I asked Jesus into my heart and how God spoke to me through Billy Graham," West said of his personal experience. "Being a part of the 'My Hope' project is a real full circle moment for me, a chance to say through music what Rev. Graham's ministry has meant to me and so many others. Thank you Reverend Graham!"

Capitol CMG is excited to be releasing the new project as well. "We have been privileged to create this special album honoring Billy Graham, who's message has had a profound life changing influence in each of our lives and in the hearts of people throughout the entire world, " said Peter York, the President of Capitol CMG Label Group, according to the press release. "Our sincere desire is that this collection of songs bring honor to Dr. Graham and the cross of Christ that he has faithfully represented over his many years of ministry. This project was written and recorded out of great respect and appreciation for this incredible man and his message of hope to the world."

Following the release of the new album and book, Graham plans on broadcasting the message of hope and redemption through Christ in November, 2013 across the nation through various mediums. Graham will also be celebrating his 95th birthday in November.

Tags

Michael W. Smith, TobyMac, Kari Jobe, Matthew West, Amy Grant, Newsboys