Driving Notes

We are celebrating Christmas in full swing here at WNZR with the Holly Jolly 25, which means 25 days packed full of holiday tunes!

One of the new Christmas songs added to our playlist this year is We The Kingdom’s “Christmas in Hawaii,” which Abby shared the story behind for today’s artist news. Although the group had no plans to release this song initially, the tragic fires occurring in Maui this year changed that plan. Now, a portion of all proceeds for this song will go to a nonprofit organization dedicated to education for children living on the island of Maui. Read more here.

The music video for this track has just been released, featuring a stop-motion animation style and a fun Santa story set in Hawaii!

In other news, Mike talked about the recently announced extension to the Casting Crowns 20th Anniversary Tour: A Live Anniversary Experience. They will be adding a spring leg to this tour, a celebration of the band’s 20 years together with a live orchestra. To read more about the live show as well as Casting Crown’s new feature film, click here!

Chains shall he break, for the slave is our brother

And in His name all oppression shall cease

Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we

Let all within us praise His holy name

Congratulations to Chris for guessing it! Today’s song was O Holy Night, and Chris will be receiving TWO gift cards to Watt’s Restaurant after last week’s stumper.

Thanks for listening!

-Mike and Abby

Today’s Artist News:

TAUREN WELLS – Fresh off his Spring 2023 Joy In The Morning Tour, Tauren dropped a brand new version of his captivating single “Joy In The Morning” with Lecrae and DOE, via Capitol/CCMG.

“I’m grateful to have Lecrae, an icon of faith and substance and DOE with an unparalleled talent and anointing on this new version,” says Wells. “This song has impacted so many people and I’m honored to have them come alongside the message of this song and expand the reach of the promise it carries.”

Originally released as the title track of his 2022 album, “Joy In The Morning” has resonated with listeners around the world, garnering more than 46 million total streams and peaking in the Top 10 on the Billboard Christian Airplay Chart. Wells released a soulful, extended version with Elevation Worship as a part of his multi-track single “J.I.T.M.,” earlier this year.

Hear the new version here!

PHIL WICKHAM – Last Friday, Phil released the official music video and title track from his highly anticipated new studio album I BELIEVE, set to release August 18th. “I Believe” serves as the fourth instant grat track to preview the respected worship leader’s forthcoming LP. 

Previously released advance tracks include the NZ Top 10 hit, “This Is Our God,” swiftly evolving into one of the biggest songs of Wickham’s career to date.

“There are so many searching for truth, meaning, belonging, purpose, hope, fulfillment, peace and healing,” Wickham passionately states about his inspiration for ‘I Believe.’ “I have found all of these things and more in the person of Jesus Christ. I think the world is desperate to see and hear people full of hope, joy, love and confidence telling their stories about how Jesus saved and changed their lives; About how He is the best thing they have ever found, and He will be the best thing anyone will ever find. My song “I Believe” was written to shout about Jesus from the rooftops. Something that we as believers can unify together on and say with joy in our hearts that we believe in the mighty name of Jesus! I can’t wait to sing this one with you all. I’ve never put more time, effort and prayer into a project, and I couldn’t be more excited to share it with you all when it releases on August 18th!” 

Congratulations to Jayne of Centerburg who wins our family 4-pack today!

Thanks for listening,
– Joe and Zoe