Rush Of Fools is ending 2011 with strong success after releasing their highly anticipated current record We Once Were in September. The first single, “Grace Found Me,” broke the Top 5 on Radio & Records Soft AC chart this week climbing to the #3 spot. At the same time, the new Rock single, “Help Our Unbelief,” is New & Active on the trade magazine’s Rock chart after coming in as one of the Most Added songs last week.
Fans were treated to music from the new record, as November was a busy touring month for the group. They joined several tour dates with Mercy Me on their Rock & Worship Roadshow, and for the second year in a row Rush Of Fools headed to Norway for a week to play a high-profile soccer conference. Wes Willis and Kevin Huguley are currently in the Philippines with Compassion International, as they are part of a group working with Compassion on various projects that includes leading a songwriting workshop.
Media has been glowing in their accolades for the new CD with JesusFreakHideout.com saying: A new sound, new label, good production, and solid lyrical content all spell out a solid third release for this group from Alabama. NewReleaseTuesday.com adds: This is the best overall album by Rush Of Fools and is one of my top albums of the year. Additional media included coverage from CCM Magazine, Essential Connection, LeSea Broadcasting’s Harvest Show and Live From Studio B, HearitFirst.com, Birmingham News, CMSpin.com, All Access, CrossPoint Magazine, and Christian Music Review. Upcoming media includes TBN’s 1 Music Village, Beliefnet, Daytime/NBC Affiliate in Birmingham, Kevin Huguley becoming a monthly worship blogger for CCM Magazine, and on a personal note: a new baby for Wes Willis in February and Kevin Huguley will be adopting a baby girl from South Korea.
For more updates on Rush of Fools please visit www.rushoffools.com <http://www.rushoffools.com> .
A late summer/fall tour has been announced by Inpop Records, the FreeFall Tour featuring Rush Of Fools, Jimmy Needham and introducing The Advice. The tour, presented in partnership with Mocha Club and Toms Shoes, launches in Lebanon, MO on August 25th and concludes October 1st in Tyler, TX. Tickets are available online at www.itickets.com, and is being booked through the Greg Oliver Agency. For more information about the tour please visit www.freefalltour.com.
The tour will be a high-energy evening of music with such stellar performing acts. Fans will have the chance to hear the headlining act, Rush Of Fools, perform songs live from their new CD, We Once Were. The album releases September 27th and the first single, “Grace Found Me,” is #28 on the AC Indicator chart. Jimmy Needham is gearing up for his next studio project due out in early 2012, while his previous album, Nightlights, was critically acclaimed with New Music Guide saying, He is a storyteller, one who can sound firm in his convictions and happy go lucky at the same time. It's a mix sorely needed in the CCM market.” The Advice is a new Christian pop/rock band just signed to Inpop Records, and have just recently released their self-titled new EP. The lead single from The Advice, “Forever Changed” is currently climbing the charts at both Christian AC and Christian CHR radio.
“This is the first time Inpop Records has produced and presented a tour to the market. Our successful focus for booking was on colleges and youth throughout the country,” according to Andrew Patton, General Manager, Inpop Records. “The unique gifts of Jimmy Needham and The Advice will be a MUST see each night. Add to that the strength of the new eOne Christian release from Rush Of Fools, and you have a night that will cause all who join us to leave happy and energized.”
“Women and children are often the most exposed and abused victims of injustice, especially in the war-torn areas of Africa”, explains Jeff Jackson, Artist Relations Director, Mocha Club. “The Women At Risk program provides spiritual, emotional, and psychological counseling and helps them find alternate means of income to support themselves and their children. We are so thankful to be partnering with both InPop Records and these artists on the inaugural Freefall Tour, as so often non-profits are an afterthought on tours, but to be fully involved in the purpose and planning has been truly refreshing."
The wait will soon be over as one of the most highly acclaimed bands in Christian music, Rush Of Fools, gears up for their debut album on eOne Christian with the release of We Once Were on September 27, 2011. Produced by renowned mainstream producer, Dennis Herring (Counting Crows, Modest Mouse, Elvis Costello) and one of Christian music’s highly respected producers, Rusty Varenkamp (Tenth Avenue North, Aaron Shust), this new offering from Rush Of Fools brings the most creative project of their career with twelve new songs co-written by the band’s ASCAP Song of the Year award-winning songwriters. The tunes focus on the individual and collective struggles the band has faced over the last two years with their label closing and an ensuing lawsuit that was settled, in their favor, in 2010.
“We can’t go back to what we were before because we were heavily changed by the events that occurred along the way,” states guitarist Kevin Huguley. “We can only go forward from here. We learned how to count it all joy by writing songs in the midst of the storm. And what we hope and intend for all who listen to take from it, is that at the end of the night, it will be all right. There's a bigger story going on here. It's bigger than our shattered dreams. It's bigger than our mistakes and failures. It's bigger than us, because it's not about us. That’s what makes this record the greatest in our history. Had we not walked through so many trials in the past two years of our career, we would never have the songs that are on this record. ”
With stellar production, the band’s immense talent and continued strong support from fans and Christian radio, Rush Of Fools is once again finding themselves rapidly climbing the charts with their first single from the new album, Grace Found Me. The song debuted at #30 at AC Indicator after only three weeks of airplay, and is currently #30 on the National Christian Audience chart. The momentum continues to build as the song can be heard on familiar stations like WDJC/Birmingham, AL; SOS Network/Las Vegas, NV; WBSN/New Orleans, LA; WJQK/Grand Rapids, MI; and K-LOVE Network, just to name a few. In a rare move, K-LOVE immediately added the song to their playlist and is making it available as a free download for the next two weeks. In the first week, over 20,000 fans have taken advantage of the offer.
"The very first time we played the song, we received a call from a woman celebrating five years of sobriety,” explains Scott Herrold, Morning Show Host/Program Director, SOS Radio. “She said, ‘It’s ironic that you played that song because five years ago today grace totally found me. I wasn’t looking to go to church, I didn’t understand how God forgave me, but I listened to SOS Radio and found encouragement. It led to plugging into a church that celebrates God’s grace and that song totally encouraged me this morning!’”
The entire album shows a maturity and growth for Rush Of Fools with their vocals, musicianship and songwriting that brings twelve solid hits in one package. The songs can have a comfortable audience in a church or a mainstream venue, as they talk about the healing that comes after our darkest hours. A message of hope in a burdened world that is conveyed so well in the title track: No way, no way/We can't stay the same as we once were/Living in the blur/Looking backwards we can see that we'll never be who we once were.
No stranger with mainstream media, Rush Of Fools’ last project brought a mainstream Top 10 hit along with major media coverage from WGN, Daily Buzz and CNN.com. We Once Were will once again cross the musical boundaries by being featured in Billboard and Mix Magazines in-studio stories, along with HearitFirst.com, CCM and TBN’s 1 Music Village interviews/performances coming up this month. For additional updates on Rush Of Fools please visit their website, www.rushoffools.com.
One of the most highly anticipated projects of 2011 will be releasing this summer, as Rush Of Fools is in the studio recording their debut CD for eOne Christian Music, a division of eOne Entertainment. At the production helm is renowned mainstream producer, Dennis Herring (Elvis Costello, Counting Crows, Modest Mouse), who flattered the band by requesting to work with them. Rush Of Fools is currently recording at Herring’s Sweet Tea Studio in Oxford, MS and the album is scheduled for a late summer 2011 release. For updates on the recording process fans can go to www.rushoffools.com or www.facebook.com/rushoffools.
"Working with Dennis is, without a doubt, a dream come true for us,” says Wes Willis, lead singer/acoustic guitarist for Rush Of Fools. “We knew going into this record we wanted a producer and a dreamer who could help us get to the next level musically. Someone who would not just hit ‘record,’ but make it a struggle for us to make THE best record we could. Dennis has pulled the best from us by never, ever settling for anything less than what we all see as the best.”
"When looking back, narrowing down our pick for producer takes me about ten years to the past when there was another difficult decision to make...picking a prom date,” says Kevin Huguley, guitarist/vocalist for Rush Of Fools. “A producer's role is so vital to the DNA of a record, just like your prom date is vital for the pictures your children will one day laugh about. Dennis Herring was the man God wanted us to select as the producer of this record. His ability to pull us musically until it hurts will be, for us, a great blessing that we believe our friends and family will hear on this next release."
Rush Of Fools endured a tumultuous two years since their former record company closed in the summer of 2009, along with an ensuing lawsuit that was resolved in 2010. In December of last year, Rush Of Fools signed with eOne Christian Music and work immediately began on the recording process for the new album.
During this season, the band continually kept writing new songs that show a continued growth and maturity from this highly acclaimed group, as the songs focus on staying faithful to God’s plan and a renewing of vision while moving forward in faith. The new project features all new compositions that were written by the band’s main songwriters, Kevin Huguley and Wes Willis, along with the other members of Rush Of Fools (Jacob Chesnut, Jamie Sharpe, Jak Blount) and other high-profile co-writers such as Jason Ingram, Jared Anderson and Trey Heffinger (Echoing Angels).
eOne Christian Music, a division of eOne Entertainment, announces the most recent addition to their growing artist roster, officially signing rock band Rush Of Fools. The band is in the writing process for their next album release, planned to street next summer. This new project follows the band's first two acclaimed CDs, 2008's Wonder Of The World and 2007's Rush Of Fools.
“I’ve been working with Rush Of Fools from the start of their career, and we’ve become family over the years, sharing so much together," comments Bob Morrison, VP of Christian Music at eOne. "I feel very blessed that we can continue our journey together. My passion for the band and the strengths of eOne will provide them a strong home for their future recordings and career growth. There are exciting things to come!”
In just a few short years, this Birmingham, Alabama-based band made a name for themselves thanks to the instant success of their self-titled debut's enormous radio success. Their first hit "Undo" went No. 1 for an astounding seven weeks, was named Radio & Records Song of the Year award in 2007 and was ASCAP's Song of the Year (2008). Their follow-up single "Peace Be Still" hit No. 1 for three weeks. In 2008, Rush of Fools was recognized by the Gospel Music Association, receiving four Dove Award Nominations that year - New Artist of the Year, Song of the Year and Pop/Contemporary Song of the Year (for "Undo"), while their self-titled debut was nominated for Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year.
“It's a humbling opportunity for us as a band to be able to partner with such an incredible company as eOne," exclaims Kevin Huguley, Rush Of Fools. "Their laundry list of success with film, television, and musical artists from all genres speaks for itself, so we see greater things that are to come because of this new and exciting relationship. Let's make a record!”
Touring over 120 dates a year, Rush Of Fools recently concluded their first European set of dates, which included a stop in Norway opening for Casting Crowns. The band is currently writing and planning recording for their first release with eOne.
Rush Of Fools is managed by Patton House Entertainment. Please visit RushOfFools.com for more information.
One of Christian music’s most popular bands, Rush Of Fools, has broken the Top Ten on Billboard’s mainstream AC chart this week! The song, “Never Far Away,” was re-recorded by the group as a duet with Jim Brickman. The tune was selected by Brickman for his new CD from Time Life, Ultimate Love Songs: The Very Best Of Jim Brickman. The single is also on Rush Of Fools’ latest project, Wonder Of The World, and the song was co-written by band members, Wes Willis and Kevin Huguley, along with co-producer, Jason Ingram.
Rush Of Fools is right behind Gavin Rossdale on the Mediabase chart, as he is positioned at #9, and joins other superstars in the Top Ten that includes Taylor Swift, Coldplay and Daughtry. “Never Far Away” was released in mid-January and has been one of the fastest rising songs on the chart after reaching #10 within eleven weeks. Major radio airplay for the song includes Delilah, KVIL/Dallas, KRWM/Seattle, WASH/Washington, DC, and KOSI/Denver.
The response has been enthusiastic for Rush Of Fools’ first headlining tour, Wonder Of The World, in support of their latest CD. The show has a strong lineup of incredible talent that also includes; Jimmy Needham, Sarah Reeves, and Joy Lippard. When the tour ends on April 5th, it will have covered seventeen cities with the show performing before an estimated ten-thousand people. The tour recently played the Nashville area at Metro Baptist Church in Goodlettsville with a sold out crowd, the third sell out on the tour to date. The Nashville appearance garnered media support with a feature in the Nashville City Paper and interviews on The Fish and WAY-FM’s Total Axxess. The tour is being sponsored by Freedom Begins Here, a non-profit organization that is working to stop pornography and sexual addiction through research tools available for churches and individuals.
“It seems almost hilarious to think of where God has brought us fools from Alabama in such a short time,” says Kevin Huguley, Rush Of Fools. “We see the providential plan of God in our lives more now than ever. What is also remarkable is to have such phenomenal artists out on the road with US for our very first tour. Thanks to Jimmy and his gang, Sarah, Joy and our incredible crew for such a memorable moment in our career. A huge thanks goes to Freedom Begins Here, our headlining sponsor and long time ministry partner, who care so much to see the Church freed from sexual addiction and pornography. Over all things, we just thank Jesus for the cross, for without the shedding of His blood, there would be no remission for our sin. Soli Deo Gloria, to God alone be the glory for the WOTW tour! Grace and peace.”
Rush Of Fools remains one of the hardest working tour bands in Christian music and also is a current favorite on the mainstream charts. “Never Far Away,” the new duet with Jim Brickman is #12 on the Billboard AC chart and #13 on Radio & Record’s AC Monitored chart. Their current Christian single, “Lose It All,” is going for adds at AC radio after reaching #4 on the CHR chart. Currently, the song has 44 adds with new additions including; WAWZ/New York City, New Life Network, and Reach FM Network.
Houston, Texas-based singer/songwriter Jimmy Needham has released a new single “Forgiven and Loved” that has just received airplay from KSBJ and is currently climbing the Christian AC charts. The song is from Needham’s current project, Not Without Love that released August 19, 2008. For more information on Jimmy Needham, visit: www.jimmyneedham.com.
Nineteen-year-old Alabama native, Sarah Reeves is poised to release her Sparrow Records debut, Sweet, Sweet Sound, April 21st. The project's first single and title track is currently vying for adds at all Christian radio formats and the song is now available online via all digital music outlets. For more information on Sarah Reeves, visit: www.sarahreeves.net.
The self-titled debut from 18-year-old singer/songwriter Joy Lippard released at worldwide retail February 24th through a distribution partnership with Go Global Entertainment and Koch Entertainment. Her new radio single, “Walk Me Home,” goes for adds this Friday, March 13, at Christian CHR radio. For more information on Joy Lippard, visit: www.joylippard.com.
Nashville, TN (February 19, 2009) ---- Rush Of Fools is enjoying great success in the mainstream market with their self-penned duet with Jim Brickman, “Never Far Away.” The song is currently #14 on Billboard’s AC chart and #16 on Radio & Records’ AC Monitored chart. As a result of this success, Rush Of Fools has seen a 74% in digital sales of the single that is also on their current CD, Wonder Of The World . The duet version with Brickman is on his latest CD from Time Life, Ultimate Love Songs: The Very Best of Jim Brickman.
Rush Of Fools headed to Chicago last week in support of their latest success and appeared on their first mainstream television booking, WGN America Midday News, the #1 midday newscast in the country. They performed “Never Far Away,” with other selections from Wonder Of The World as bumpers for the program and for WGN.com.
While in Chicago, Rush Of Fools also performed on Moody Radio’s national show, Midday Connection, and traveled to South Bend, Indiana for an appearance on LeSea Broadcasting’s Harvest Show. Before heading up to Chicago, the band also appeared on Nashville’s Tennessee Mornings.
“Lose It All,” which was a Top 4 single at Christian CHR radio is now going for adds in the AC format with early adds at (need radio station names here).
Rush of Fools is currently in rehearsals for their upcoming headlining tour, “Wonder Of The World,” that launches February 20th in North Carolina. For more tour updates on the group please visit www.rushoffools.com.
One of Christian music’s premiere bands, Rush Of Fools, kicks off 2009 by recording a duet with the renowned pianist, Jim Brickman. Brickman wanted to team up with Rush Of Fools after hearing one of the new songs, “Never Far Away,” from their current album, Wonder Of The World. Brickman’s new project, Ultimate Love Songs: The Very Best Of Jim Brickman releases January 27th and “Never Far Away” is the first single that was serviced to mainstream AC radio January 12th. First week adds had the song tied (with Leona Lewis) for Most Added at Radio Record’s Mainstream AC Monitored chart and the tune was also #1 New & Active song.
“We were thrilled to hear that Jim Brickman wanted us to record as a duet, ‘Never Far Away,’ for his new project that celebrates his 15th year as a recording artist,” says Rush Of Fools. “It’s such an honor for us to perform with Jim and the other stellar artists on the album such as Martina McBride, Michael Bolton, Lady Antebellum, and Michael W. Smith. We are very excited about this opportunity that Jim has given us.”
Rush Of Fools will be heading to Chicago mid-February in support of the new single. The band will be performing “Never Far Away” and other songs from Wonder Of The World on Moody Radio’s national radio program, Midday Connection, and WGN America (national), Midday News, on February 11th. Then the group travels to South Bend, IN on the 12th for an appearance on LeSea Broadcasting’s Harvest Show.
Rush Of Fools ends this past year with continued success at radio, retail, and media. Total sales for the group is over 132,000 units and the band ranked #19 in Radio & Records’ Top 20 Christian AC artists of 2008. The title track was the first single from Wonder Of The World and Radio & Records AC Monitored listed it as #59 in the Top 100 songs of 2008, with the AC Indicator listing it at #50 in the Top 50 songs of the year. Overall the song has had over 48 million audience impressions! Currently, “Wonder Of The World,” is at #20 on Radio & Records’ AC Monitored and #6 on the Soft AC/Inspo. The current CHR single, “Lose It All,” is at #7 on Radio & Records’ CHR chart. The band’s multi-Dove nominated tune and ASCAP’s Christian Song of the Year, “Undo,” was listed at #18 on iTunes 2008 Top Sellers/Top Songs in the Christian/Gospel category.
Known for their non-stop touring schedule with 177 concert dates in 2008, Rush Of Fools is gearing up for their first headlining tour that launches February 20th. Also featured on the tour will be Jimmy Needham, along with special guest Sarah Reeves and will introduce Joy Lippard. An announcement about the full tour will be released soon.
For more information and tour updates on Rush of Fools please visit, www.rushoffools.com or www.myspace.com/rushoffools.
Nashville, TN (January 27, 2009) ---- One of the hardest working tour bands in Christian music will launch their first headlining tour, Wonder Of The World, in support of their latest CD. Presented by Freedom Begins Here the tour kicks off in Garner, NC on February 20 and concludes April 5 in Marietta, GA. (A complete listing of dates is at the end of this press release). Also featured on the tour is Jimmy Needham along with special guest Sarah Reeves and introducing, Joy Lippard. The tour is being booked through the Greg Oliver Agency and produced by Patton House Entertainment.
“During the past three of years of partnership with the Fools we have been building to this tour,” says Andrew Patton, President, Patton House Entertainment. “We have had the pleasure of working with some wonderful acts over the past three years, and feel ready to launch our own tour. This tour is exciting since we get to partner with four out of five Patton House Entertainment artists in a truly family-like way. I’m excited to see the power of connection between the artists and the large audiences expected in each tour market.”
Rush Of Fools is currently climbing Radio & Records AC Mainstream Monitored Chart with their new single, “Never Far Away,” a duet with Jim Brickman. The single, currently #24, continues to pick up more markets each week with syndication airplay scheduled in the near future. Their latest Christian single, “Lose It All,” is currently #4 on Radio & Records CHR Christian chart. To date, Rush Of Fools has sold over 133,000 albums and Radio & Records ranked the band #19 in the Top 20 Christian AC artists of 2008. The band’s multi-Dove nominated tune and ASCAP’s Christian Song Of The Year, “Undo,” was listed at #18 on iTunes 2008 Top Sellers/Top Songs in the Christian/Gospel category. The band will appear on Tennessee Mornings on Nashville’s Fox network Feb. 10, WGN America (national) Midday News, Feb. 11; Moody radio’s Midday Connection, Feb. 12; and will tape Harvest Show on Feb. 13. For more information and tour updates on Rush Of Fools please visit www.rushoffools.com.
Houston, Texas-based singer/songwriter Jimmy Needham initially established a devoted fan following as a regular on the independent circuit but he soon signed with Inpop Records in 2005. Needham's label debut, Speak was released in 2006, followed by Not Without Love in 2008. The project garnered Needham his best-ever sales debut, landing in the top five on iTunes’ Christian Albums chart and No. 8 on both the Christian AC Soundscan and Overall Christian Digital charts. The album’s lead single, “A Breathe Or Two,” peaked at #3 on the Radio & Records CHR chart, and he was a featured guest on BarlowGirl’s “Million Voices” tour last fall. For more information on Jimmy Needham, visit: www.jimmyneedham.com.
Nineteen-year-old Alabama native, Sarah Reeves, first exercised her songwriting/vocal abilities as a participant in her church’s fine arts program. Consistently placing first at local as well as regional competitions, Reeves soon signed with Sparrow Records in late 2008 and joins the label's all-star line-up of new talent in 2009. She will release her Sparrow Records debut, Sweet, Sweet Sound, April 21, 2009. The project's first single and title track is currently vying for adds at all Christian radio formats and the song is now available online via all digital music outlets. For more information on Sarah Reeves, visit: www.sarahreeves.net.
The self-titled debut from 18-year-old singer/songwriter Joy Lippard is set for worldwide retail release February 24, 2009 through a distribution partnership with Go Global Entertainment and Koch Entertainment. A guitar and piano player, Lippard penned her first song at the age of 11 and went on to become a 2006 GMA Music in the Rockies songwriting competition winner. Lippard has served as a youth worship leader at her home church, McLean Bible, in suburban Washington, DC. She is an advocate of international missions and has participated in trips to Peru, Guatemala and the Dominican Republic. For more information on Joy Lippard, visit: www.joylippard.com.
Freedom Begins Here is a newly launched group that is challenging Christians everywhere to join a bold movement to break the chains of pornography and sexual addictions in our culture. Created as a response to countless emails and phone calls from pastors and individuals looking for resources to help with the problem of pornography and sexual addictions, they are hoping to break the silence by providing a full line of dynamic resources: The Freedom Begins Here Church Toolkit and the Personal Toolkit, which officially launched in January.
Nashville, TN (November 5, 2008) ---- Midas Records’ premiere Christian Progressive-Worship band, Rush of Fools, is once again heating up the airwaves on Christian radio with their latest single, “Lose It All.” The song enters its second week as the #1 Most Added at Radio & Records CHR chart and such stations as WONU/Chicago and KXWA/Denver are adding the tune. The network Program Director from WAY-FM, Tate Luck, adds, "This song had me by the first chorus. I believe that it will resonate with Amy, Jen, or whoever your lady is." The single was co-written by two members of the group; lead vocalist Wes Willis, guitarist and keyboards, Kevin Huguley, and one of their co-producers, Jason Ingram.
“‘Lose it All’ is an explosive single,” exclaims Brad Allen, Head of A&R, Midas Records. “The reaction to this song from both radio and fans has been tremendous and when the band added the tune to their live show a few months ago, the crowd reaction was incredible also. These are the days you live for as a record guy and I’m thrilled that Rush of Fools has done it again!”
Wonder of the World was one of the most eagerly anticipated projects of 2008, following Rush of Fools tremendous success with their self-titled debut in 2007. The group has received early reviews from ChristianMusicToday.com (Rush of Fools sound considerably improved for their sophomore effort), CMCentral.com (Rush of Fools has succeeded in its transparency about the “Wonder of the World” and continually points listeners back to God, His word, His purposes, His timing and His ways), Soul-Audio.com (Throughout Wonder of the World, listeners are saturated with recurring themes of God’s goodness and faithfulness while at the same time experiencing the rewards of the Christian life), HollywoodJesus.com (The Jason Ingram-produced band returns with their sophomore album, Wonder of the World, in September, proving that they are no one-hit wonders), to name a few. These great reviews come as the group has sold close to 105,000 units in their young career and Wonder of the World has already sold eleven-thousand in just a few weeks after release.
Rush of Fools has been touring non-stop promoting Wonder of the World. In September, the band made their debut appearance at Night of Joy at Disney World and are currently on a 38-city national tour with Big Daddy Weave. The band will also be the featured artist on NewSong’s Christmas Celebration tour that launches December 2nd. The group will headline their own “Wonder of the World” tour in spring 2009 with Jimmy Needham, along with specials guests Sarah Reeves and Joy Lippard.
Rush of Fools self-titled debut exploded at radio producing the Radio and Records 2007 Song of the Year with "Undo," while garnering ASCAP's Song of the Year Award for "Undo" (April 2008). The #1 single was also a featured song on CBA's top-selling WOW 2008 CD, while the record was the 2nd best selling new artist release of 2007. With unprecedented radio success, multiple Dove Award nominations, exclusive partnerships and national tours, Rush Of Fools has become one of Christian music's hottest new bands.
The Alabama-based group is comprised of Willis, Huguley, guitarist J.D. Frazier, bassist Jacob Chesnut and drummer Jamie Sharpe. For more information and tour updates on Rush of Fools please visit, www.rushoffools.com or www.myspace.com/rushoffools.
(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) June 27, 2008 – Following on the heels of an unmatched debut year, Midas Records Band, Rush Of Fools is preparing for the release of its highly-anticipated project, Wonder Of The World. Slated to release nationwide September 16, 2008, the sophomore effort is reminiscent of the band’s debut release, filled with passionate lyrics and contemporary, hooky melodies, yet takes the band to a new level musically, personally and spiritually.
The Alabama-based group helped to introduce a new genre of worship music and the “progressive worship” trend into the music scene with its debut project last year. The band’s self-titled debut exploded at radio producing the Radio and Records 2007 Song of the Year with “Undo,” while garnering ASCAP’s Song of the Year Award for “Undo” (April 2008). The #1 single was also a featured song on CBA’s top-selling WOW 2008 CD, while the record was the 2nd best selling new artist release of 2007. With unprecedented radio success, multiple Dove Award nominations, exclusive partnerships and national tours, Rush Of Fools has become one of Christian music’s hottest new bands.
With a compelling artistry that embodies progressive worship, Rush Of Fools' evocative and engaging message of restoration and forgiveness has resonated deeply with today's passionate generation. The combination of relevant lyrics and distinct sound has also contributed to the band’s growing fan base.
The core elevating factor of the band’s presence, much like its debut record, is the commitment to lyrical innovation that showcases that willingness to strip the artifice of success away and focus on the one, true Wonder of the World. The expansion of Rush of Fools’ musical vocabulary is evident throughout Wonder Of The World, with the pogo-ready rocker “Lose It All” lining up right alongside the hypnotic “Escape,” contrasting with the lullaby feel of “Tonight” and the piano ballad “The Only Thing that’s Beautiful in Me.”
Produced by Jason Ingram and Rusty Varenkamp, Wonder Of The World is a personal reflection of the band’s individual journeys and journey together as a whole. Lyrically and musically, Rush Of Fools showcases its progressive edge, while holding true its musical roots.
“It doesn’t matter what aspect of life you’re working on, you always have to learn how to recreate something,” says Wes Willis, lead vocalist/songwriter. “You always have to learn how to grow and change and from a musical aspect, that’s definitely what we’ve done with this album. There was a lot of growth, I think, but not too far away from worship, because that’s who we are.”
Just finishing up the national Newsboys “GO” tour, the band has been announced as part of the lineup for the 26th annual Night of Joy at Walt Disney World. One of the top Christian music festival events in the country, 2008’s Night of Joy will take place Sept. 5-6, 2008 as Rush Of Fools joins stellar Contemporary Christian Music performers, including Casting Crowns, MercyMe, Chris Tomlin, tobyMac, Rebecca St. James, Aaron Shust and Fred Hammond, among others.
To support the upcoming album, Rush Of Fools will continue its aggressive national touring this fall with Big Daddy Weave (cities and dates to be announced at a later date).
Rush Of Fools consists of Wes Willis (lead vocals, acoustic guitar), Kevin Huguley (vocals, keys, electric guitar), Jacob Chesnut (bass, vocals), Jamie Sharpe (drums) and JD Frazier (electric and acoustic guitar, keys, vocals).
(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) April 30, 2008 –ASCAP recently awarded Kevin Huguley and Wes Willis from Rush Of Fools, along with Scott Davis, the Song Of The Year Award for "Undo" during the 30th Annual Christian Awards Dinner held in Nashville, Tenn. on April 22, 2008.
The recent award accolade builds on the group’s astounding musical achievements since its debut self-titled 2007 CD release which exploded at radio producing the Radio and Records 2007 Song of the Year with “Undo.” The record was also the 2nd best selling new artist release of the year. With unprecedented radio success, multiple Dove Award nominations, exclusive partnerships and national tour ventures, Rush of Fools has become one of Christian music’s hottest new bands.
In addition to the ASCAP nod, Rush Of Fools continues its #1 radio momentum on the CRW Inspirational chart this week as “Peace Be Still” holds the top spot for three consecutive weeks. With unprecedented success as one of Christian music’s top newcomers and a rapidly growing list of chart-topping singles, Rush Of Fools continues to maintain its solid position on Christian radio, as one of its top played artists.
With a compelling artistry that embodies progressive worship, Rush Of Fools' evocative and engaging message of restoration and forgiveness has resonated deeply with today's passionate generation. The combination of relevant lyrics and distinct sound has contributed to the band’s growing fan base.
Following on the heels of its amazing debut year success, the band is currently in the studio preparing for its highly-anticipated sophomore project, Wonder Of The World which is slated to release nationwide September 16, 2008. Produced by Scott Davis, Jason Ingram and Rusty Varenkamp, the sophomore effort is much like their debut release, filled with passionate lyrics and contemporary, hooky melodies. To support the upcoming album, Rush Of Fools will continue its aggressive national touring this fall with Big Daddy Weave (cities and dates to be announced at a later date).
Rush Of Fools continues the Newsboys “GO” tour this month with multiple stops across the country. In addition, the band has been announced as part of the lineup for the 26th annual Night of Joy at Walt Disney World, coming this year to Disney's Hollywood Studios. One of the top Christian music festival events in the country, 2008’s Night of Joy will take place Sept. 5-6, 2008 as Rush Of Fools joins stellar Contemporary Christian Music performers, including Casting Crowns, MercyMe, Chris Tomlin, tobyMac, Rebecca St. James, Aaron Shust and Fred Hammond, among others.
Rush Of Fools consists of Wes Willis (lead vocals, acoustic guitar), Kevin Huguley (vocals, keys, electric guitar), Jacob Chesnut (bass, vocals), Jamie Sharpe (drums) and JD Frazier (electric and acoustic guitar, keys, vocals).
(NASHVILLE, TENN) April 16, 2008 – Midas Records band Rush Of Fools continues its #1 radio momentum, garnering the #1 position on the CRW Inspirational chart this week with its single “Peace Be Still.” With unprecedented success as one of Christian music’s top newcomers and a rapidly growing list of chart-topping singles, including the group’s debut #1 single “Undo,” Rush Of Fools continues to maintain its solid position on Christian radio, as one of its top played artists.
“Peace Be Still,” the fifth single (across multiple charts) from Rush Of Fools, leads the group’s rapid radio momentum as the band holds three spots on the CRW Comprehensive Top 100 Chart, #19(Can’t Get Away), #52 (Peace Be Still), and #53(When Our Hearts Sing). Band members, Kevin Huguley, Wes Willis and producers Jason Ingram and Matt Bronlewee also recently received the BDS March 2008 Spin Award for 20,000 certified spins on “When Our Hearts Sing.”
In addition to the band’s radio recognitions, Rush Of Fools is also gearing up for the 2008 GMA Week and the 39th Annual Dove Awards. A nominee in four major categories (Song Of The Year: “Undo,” New Artist Of The Year, Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song Of The Year: “Undo” and Pop/Contemporary Album Of The Year: Rush Of Fools), the new group maintains its momentum as one of Christian music’s hottest new artists and will appear on the upcoming live broadcast of the 2008 Dove Awards on the Gospel Music Channel, on Wednesday, April 23, along with the other New Artist of the Year nominees.
Don’t miss Rush Of Fools during Gospel Music Week as they will be performing various times during the week at numerous events, luncheons and late night showcases!
Rush Of Fools continues the Newsboys “GO” tour this week with stops in St. Cloud, MN, Stevens Point, WI and Rochester, MN. In addition, the band has been announced as part of the lineup for the 26th annual Night of Joy at Walt Disney World, coming this year to Disney's Hollywood Studios. One of the top Christian music festival events in the country, 2008’s Night of Joy will take place Sept. 5-6, 2008 as Rush Of Fools joins stellar Contemporary Christian Music performers, including Casting Crowns, MercyMe, Chris Tomlin, tobyMac, Rebecca St. James, Aaron Shust and Fred Hammond, among others.
Rush Of Fools consists of Wes Willis (lead vocals, acoustic guitar), Kevin Huguley (vocals, keys, electric guitar), Jacob Chesnut (bass, vocals), Jamie Sharpe (drums) and JD Frazier (electric and acoustic guitar, keys, vocals)
(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) March 31, 2008 - Midas Records Band, Rush Of Fools continues to build on its quickly growing success as one of Christian music’s top newcomers. In addition to the band’s multiple Dove Award recognitions in four major categories (Song Of The Year: “Undo,” New Artist Of The Year, Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song Of The Year: “Undo” and Pop/Contemporary Album Of The Year: Rush Of Fools), the new group maintains its momentum as one of radio’s highest charting artists and has hit the top of numerous Reader’s Choice polls nationwide over the past few months.
“Peace Be Still,” the fifth single from Rush Of Fools, builds radio momentum this week breaking Top 10 at CRW’s INSPO radio. Simultaneously, the current singles “Can’t Get Away” and “We All” maintain strong activity and momentum reaching #19 and #16 on the R&R AC Monitored & CRW CHR charts respectively. The multiple single successes builds on the group’s continuously growing musical and career achievements, seen since its debut self-titled 2007 CD release.
In addition to the continuous radio success, Rush Of Fools was recently voted Best New Artist for 2007 in www.musicfaith.com’s Readers Choice Awards. The band was also recognized in the fifth annual Jesusfreakhideout.com Reader's Choice Awards, picking up new mentions this week in multiple categories at www.jesusfreakhideout.com.
Keeping it real, the band maintains a strong vision of ministry, joining the fight to address and bring change to a worldwide epidemic on sexual addiction that is destroying marriages, families, careers and even churches. The band’s exclusive music video, "Undo" is highlighted as one of the resources for the organization, “Freedom Begins Here” (www.freedombeginshere.org ). Rush Of Fools has chosen to partner with this special outreach organization, which works to address and combat pornography and major issues facing both men and women, in and outside of the faith community. The band regularly promotes the movement during its nationwide concerts and touring platforms and works to further the work of the ministry on and off stage.
With a rapidly growing list of chart-topping singles, Rush Of Fools has taken radio by storm. The band’s #1 single, “Undo” was lauded as R&R's 'Most Played Song of the Year' for the Adult Contemporary Monitored chart, as well as receiving the BDS Spin Award for reaching over 50,000 spins. iTunes announced the smash hit as one of the top downloaded songs within the Christian & Gospel category of 2007, while Rush Of Fools has become the first new artist to land a debut single at #1 since Casting Crowns in 2004. The band also secured the R&R AC #1 and CRW AC #1 spots for the song, with over 450 Million Impressions during 2007. Adding to the band’s multiple success positions on the charts, “When Our Hearts Sing” rounded out the year as a Top 7 AC hit.
Rush Of Fools is currently on the road with the Newsboys on the 40-50 city nationwide “Go” Tour. In addition, the band has been announced as part of the lineup for the 26th annual Night of Joy at Walt Disney World, coming this year to Disney's Hollywood Studios. One of the top Christian music festival events in the country, 2008’s Night of Joy will take place Sept. 5-6, 2008 as Rush Of Fools joins stellar Contemporary Christian Music performers, including Casting Crowns, MercyMe, Chris Tomlin, tobyMac, Rebecca St. James, Aaron Shust and Fred Hammond, among others.
The 2008 Dove Awards will be handed out on April 23, 2008 at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville. The awards show will be televised in national syndication in May. Don’t miss Rush Of Fools during Gospel Music Week as they will be performing three times during the week at various luncheons and late night showcases!
Rush Of Fools consists of Wes Willis (lead vocals, electric guitar), Kevin Huguley (lead vocals, electric and acoustic guitar), Jacob Chesnut (bass, vocals), Jamie Sharpe (drums, vocals) and JD Frazier (electric guitar, keys, vocals).
(NASHVILLE, TENN) Feb. 13, 2008 – “Can’t Get Away,” the third single from premiere new Midas Records band Rush Of Fools continues rapid radio momentum, as the #1 most added song this week at R&R AC monitored chart. Simultaneously, “We All” continues as new and active at R&R CHR. The single’s immediate success builds on the group’s unprecedented musical achievements since the band debuted it’s self-titled 2007 CD release.
With it’s debut single being named R&R AC Song of the Year for 2007, Rush Of Fools has taken radio by storm. iTunes announced the smash hit as one of the top downloaded songs within the Christian & Gospel category of 2007, while Rush Of Fools has become the first new artist to land a debut single at #1 since Casting Crowns in 2004. The band also secured the R&R AC #1 and CRW AC #1 spots for the song with over 450 million impressions during 2007. “Undo” was also listed in Mediabase at the AC #1 spot. Adding to the multiple success positions on the charts, “When Our Hearts Sing” rounded out the year as a Top 7 AC hit.
Rush Of Fools will continue it’s consistent nationwide touring, joining the Newsboys on the high-energy, major market “Go” Tour featuring Rush Of Fools, Article One and Newworldson. Visiting 30-40 cities nationwide, the tour kicks off on Friday, February 15, 2008. The band will be performing songs from it’s self-titled debut release as well as previewing songs from the group’s sophomore release due out this fall.
In addition to the continuous radio success, Rush Of Fools recently formed an unprecedented ministry partnership with “Freedom Begins Here” to draw attention to the epidemic issue of pornography and sex addiction within and outside the church. Hosted by Dr. Gary Smalley and Pastor Ted Cunningham, the powerful series of DVD-driven “Toolkits” are designed specifically to empower churches and individuals to face the problem of sexual addiction head on. A startling survey recently revealed that 50% of Christian men and 20% of Christian women admit they are addicted to pornography. Not just struggling…addicted. That’s 84 million Christians. Rush Of Fools has joined the fight to cure a worldwide epidemic that is destroying marriages, families, careers and even churches. The band’s exclusive music video, "Undo" is highlighted as one of the resources among the “Freedom Begins Here” materials and resource tools. https://www.freedombeginshere.org/
With a compelling artistry that embodies progressive worship, Rush Of Fools' evocative and engaging message of restoration and forgiveness has resonated deeply with today's passionate generation. The combination of relevant lyrics and distinct sound has contributed to the band’s growing fan base, being named “Best New Artist” in CCM magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards, (which is currently published in the January 2008 issue of CCM magazine), “Best New Artist” in the ChristianityToday.com Readers’ Choice Christian Music Awards and one of the “Top 100 Christian Artists” by Myspace.com. Listed also as the second best-selling new artist of 2007, “The 700 Club” noted in a recent feature, that Rush Of Fools has made an "unprecedented mark on Christian music history in 2007."
Rush Of Fools consists of Wes Willis (lead vocals, electric guitar), Kevin Huguley (lead vocals, electric and acoustic guitar), Jacob Chesnut (bass, vocals), Jamie Sharpe (drums, vocals) and JD Frazier (electric guitar, keys, vocals).
(NASHVILLE, TENN) December 28, 2007 –In an age where breaking new artists is a rare feat, 2007 has proved to be an explosive launching pad for Midas Records', Rush Of Fools. With a year full of mounting accolades, this dynamic group has experienced an uncommon immediacy of success. The group’s widely received self-titled debut album released May 8, 2007 under the helm of veteran producers Matt Bronlewee (Michael W. Smith, Leeland, Joy Williams ), Jason Ingram (Bebo Norman, Gray Holiday) and Scott Davis (Jessie Daniels).
With a compelling artistry that embodies progressive worship, Rush Of Fools' evocative and engaging message of restoration and forgiveness has resonated deeply with today's passionate generation. The combination of relevant lyrics and distinct sound has contributed to the band’s growing fan base, being named “Best New Artist” in CCM magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards, (which is currently published in the January 2008 issue of CCM magazine), “Best New Artist” in the ChristianityToday.com Readers’ Choice Christian Music Awards (announced on December 3, 2007) and one of the “Top 100 Christian Artists” by Myspace.com. Listed also as the second best-selling new artist of 2007, “The 700 Club” noted in a recent feature, that Rush Of Fools has made an "unprecedented mark on Christian music history this year."
The #1 single, “Undo” was lauded as R&R's 'Most Played Song of the Year' for the Adult Contemporary Monitored chart, as well as receiving the BDS Spin Award for reaching over 50,000 spins, according to R&R Magazine. iTunes announced the smash hit as one of the top downloaded songs within the Christian & Gospel category of 2007, while Rush Of Fools has become the first new artist to land a debut single at #1 since Casting Crowns in 2004. The band also secured the R&R AC #1 and CRW AC #1 spots for the song with over 450 Million Impressions during 2007. “Undo” was also listed in Mediabase at the AC #1 spot. Adding to their multiple success positions on the charts, “When Our Hearts Sing” rounded out the year as a Top 7 AC hit.
The group’s recent Christmas single, "O Come All Ye Faithful” climbed the charts to the number #9 position on the R&R AC Chart with more than 1.8 million impressions, following an onslaught of over 6,000 free digital downloads of the track that were recorded in the first three weeks when offered on various websites.
With a heavy tour schedule, Rush Of Fools has kept steady in the public eye with an appearance on “The 700 Club,” as well as joining the “World on Fire” tour with By the Tree and the Turning; the “Better Questions” tour with Todd Agnew as well as performances at the Alive Festival alongside Switchfoot, Chris Tomlin, and Toby Mac. They will be joining the Newsboys on the nationwide “Go” Tour in the spring of 2008.
In addition to the band’s radio and touring news, Rush Of Fools recently formed ministry partnerships with Godtube.com as well as "Freedom Begins Here," which draws attention to the epidemic issue of pornography and sex addiction within and outside of the church.
Garnering the group’s name from 1 Corinthians 1:25-27, Rush Of Fools has received industry wide acclaim from the strong album reviews, album sales and digital downloads since their conception in 2005. Recognized by music executives after winning the Nashville-based Band With A Mission competition in 2006, they showcased whirlwind momentum, locking in a premier management team, booking agency and a label deal with Midas Records within months. Rush Of Fools consists of Wes Willis (lead vocals, electric guitar), Kevin Huguley (lead vocals, electric and acoustic guitar), Jacob Chesnut (bass, vocals), Jamie Sharpe (drums, vocals) and JD Frazier (electric guitar, keys, vocals).
“When Our Hearts Sing,” the second single from premiere new Midas Records band Rush Of Fools, continues to gain rapid radio momentum and lands at the #20 position on the Billboard Christian Chart. The single’s immediate success continues to reflect and solidify the groups’ musical achievements created through its debut single “Undo,” which has broken radio records and has received multiple chart achievements.
As a strong follow-up to “Undo, which has officially been named the most played new song on R&R AC charts for this entire year, “When Our Hearts Sing,” has received prominent placement on a number of national radio charts including, CRW and the R&R AC Monitored charts. In addition, both singles have made a home for themselves on Jon Rivers’ “20 the Countdown Magazine.”
Currently on the road with the World Vision “Better Questions Tour” with Todd Agnew, through the fall of 2007, Rush Of Fools has been chosen as the featured artist on the upcoming Newsboys “Go” Tour that will visit 40-50 cities nationwide in the Spring of 2008.
In addition to the group’s radio and touring news, Rush Of Fools recently formed ministry partnerships with Godtube.com as well as “Freedom Begins Here,” which draws attention to the epidemic issue of pornography and sex addiction within and outside the church. Hosted by Dr. Gary Smalley and Pastor Ted Cunningham, the powerful series of DVD-driven “Toolkits” will release in 2008 and is designed specifically to empower churches and individuals to face the problem of sexual addiction head on.
The band’s chart topping, smash debut radio single “Undo” is also continuing to receive recognition and chart-topping attention. The premiere single garnered the BDS Spin Award in August for reaching 40,000 spins, according to R&R magazine. In addition, “Undo” is also the most played new single of 2007 on the R&R AC Monitored chart and continues to gain attention worldwide positioning the band as history makers, in that no other debut artist on a new label has ever achieved such immediate success.
Rush Of Fools consists of Wes Willis (lead vocals, electric guitar), Kevin Huguley (lead vocals, electric and acoustic guitar), Jacob Chesnut (bass, vocals), Jamie Sharpe (drums, vocals) and JD Frazier (electric guitar, keys, vocals). For more information, click
HEREMidas Records’ new band Rush Of Fools has formed a founding ministry partnership with GodTube.com, which was named this week as the #1 fastest growing website in the country. The site, which launched just over a month ago on August 6, has attracted 1.7 million unique U.S. visitors just in its first month going “live” and has quickly become an important platform for artist’s music and their fans.
As a founding ministry partner with GodTube.com, the site will provide exclusive Rush Of Fools “behind-the-scenes” and live footage of the Christian music group, which will enable the members to be on a personal, one-on-one level with their listeners and other members in a unique and intimate way.
GodTube.com is creating currents and quickly making a name for itself as a pioneer for the virtual church body, providing its rapidly growing community of users with more than 20,000 videos that offer a diverse assortment of content ranging from the light-hearted and comedic to the powerful and emotion-filled. GodTube.com has become a meeting ground for people of all ages and backgrounds, where they not only view online content – but also interact by uploading, sharing and commenting.
According to CNN.com, “ComScore, the leading digital media intelligence provider, today ranked the new website GodTube.com the #1 fastest growing U.S. web property for the month of August in its ranking of the Top 1000 Web Properties.”
The band’s chart topping, smash debut radio single “Undo” is also continuing to receive recognition and chart-topping attention, as the premiere single garnered the BDS Spin Award in August for reaching 40,000 spins, according to R&R magazine. In addition, “Undo” is also the most played new single of 2007 on the R&R AC Monitored chart and continues to gain attention worldwide.
The Rush Of Fools band members have also recently followed “Undo” with the release another heavy hitter “When Our Hearts Sing,” landing them in the top ten at #9 on the CRW charts and climbing from #27 to #23 this week on the R&R AC Monitored charts. With “When Our Hearts Sing” hitting the airwaves, Rush Of Fools has made a home for two of their singles on Jon Rivers’ “20 the Countdown Magazine.”
Rush Of Fools is the first new artist to land a debut single at #1 on AC charts since Casting Crowns in 2004. The unprecedented multiple chart success positions the band as history makers in that no other debut artist on a new label has ever achieved such immediate success. New single, “When Our Hearts Sing,” is poised to continue with like momentum.
Rush Of Fools consists of Wes Willis (lead vocals, electric guitar), Kevin Huguley (lead vocals, electric and acoustic guitar), Jacob Chesnut (bass, vocals), Jamie Sharpe (drums, vocals) and JD Frazier (electric guitar, keys, vocals). For more information, visit
myspace.com/rushoffools or click
HERE.
The band currently is on the road with the “Better Questions Tour” with Todd Agnew, presented by World Vision. Upcoming dates include:
9/19 Merced, CA
9/20 Redding, CA
9/21 Bend, OR
9/23 Spokane, WA
9/25 Wenatchee, WA
9/26 Missoula, MT
9/27 Kalispell, MT
9/28 Pasco, WA
9/29 College Place, WA
9/30 Layton, UT
10/3 Castle Rock, CO
10/6 Mt. Sterling, KY
10/9 Cumming, GA
10/11 Iowa City, IA
10/13 Minneapolis, MN
10/19 Charlotte, NC
10/20 Dunn, NC
10/26 Greenwood, IN
10/28 Louisville, KY
11/3 Brooksville, FL
11/11 Houghton, NY
11/17 Clinton, MS
11/18 Memphis, TN
(NASHVILLE, TENN) – Midas Records band Rush Of Fools continues to make history with its unprecedented radio chart success as “Undo” repositions itself once again at the #1 slot on the R&R Christian AC Monitored chart this week. The band’s debut single also remains at the #1 slot for the sixth consecutive week on the CRW Comprehensive chart and holds at #1 for the eighth consecutive week on Billboard’s Mediabase Christian AC chart.
Garnering radio adds at a number of highly respected stations around the nation, “Undo” will be featured this weekend as a brand new add on Air 1 and Way-FM networks.
With an astounding 100% of AC reporting stations in the country currently playing the single, Rush Of Fools has had rapid success with “Undo.” After going for adds at radio on January 12, 2007, the debut single quickly climbed radio charts and immediately garnered the highest score in history on “20 The Countdown Magazine’s” listener poll. My Space has been flooded with messages describing incredible life-changing stories of hope and inspiration from listeners that share personal stories about how lives have been impacted by the lyrics, heart and message of the song.
