Recommended

Rocketown Plans Contest, Other Promotional Vehicles For Upcoming Release of Chris Rice's New Disc

While 2001 brought two incredibly well-received instrumental albums, March 2003 finds singer/songwriter Chris Rice returning to what he does best: writing and singing songs that thoughtfully reflect on life and faith.

Rice’s sixth album, Run the Earth…Watch the Sky, hits stores March 4, 2003. The first release for Rocketown under its new distribution deal with Provident Music Group,

Rice’s Run the Earth…Watch the Sky already boasts an enthusiastic response with debut single “The Other Side of the Radio” charting in the Top 10 on R&R’s Christian Adult Contemporary chart in only its sixth week at radio. A cover story on Rice has also been secured in the first quarter issue of CCM NewReleases.

Get Our Latest News for FREE

Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know.

“The title of my fourth record, Run the Earth…Watch the Sky, is actually an unspoken motto I’ve had throughout my life,” said Rice. “The first part, I love life. I love to explore. I love to travel. I just feel like I want to live life zealously and enjoy it. At the same time, the last phrase says ‘watch the sky.’ Everything we do on this planet we need to do in a bigger context and to realize we are a part of something bigger. There is a God who loves us, who is involved and who one day is coming back for us.”

Last month, Rice visited with more than 170 VIPs in seven different markets to premiere new songs from the album. Mike Snowden, music buyer for Mardel, said, "During his recent visit, Chris played four new songs that I thought were simply fantastic. His writing has always been so moving and profound, and this new record is no different. 'Untitled Hymn' captures, in just a few words, so many images of the joys and sorrows of living the Christian life. At the same time, there also seem to be a number of songs that are fun, light-hearted and incredibly encouraging. I think our customers are going to be really excited to hear Run the Earth...Watch the Sky."

With the album’s debut single receiving such a warm embrace, Rocketown Records is partnering with 10 stations on a contest that allows listeners to meet Rice on “The Other Side of the Radio.” A winner and guest from 10 markets will be flown to Nashville for an exclusive album release concert on March 4 at Michael W. Smith’s pioneering downtown teen club, Rocketown. In addition to flights to Nashville, the listeners will be given a VIP tour of the club, a reception with Chris Rice and a private concert with Rice and new Rocketown artist Alathea, as well as lodging, meals and ground transportation.

“As we work to launch this record, Chris has given us tremendous gifts: a brilliant album, hit singles, a national tour and his commitment to reach audiences with his music,” said Rocketown Records’ Vice President of Marketing Dave Palmer. “This album has been embraced by radio, retail and media partners with a speed that has taken us all by surprise in the best way possible. Christian music has very few artists so adept at communicating the way Chris does, not to mention an ongoing commitment to serving quietly away from the spotlight. Those qualities complement each other wonderfully and make for an honest, insightful view of faith in action that we as a community don't see enough. I think this is one of 2003's most significant records, even before the year has started.”

Beginning in late February, Rice will embark on a 30-city tour with a full band to support Run the Earth…Watch the Sky. The tour is currently being booked by ive Artists Agency.

By Paulina C.

Was this article helpful?

Help keep The Christian Post free for everyone.

By making a recurring donation or a one-time donation of any amount, you're helping to keep CP's articles free and accessible for everyone.

We’re sorry to hear that.

Hope you’ll give us another try and check out some other articles. Return to homepage.

Most Popular

More Articles