NASHVILLE, TN. (WDC MEDIA) - Two music industry veterans have launched an innovative praise and worship DVD series that melds beloved Christian hymns and songs with modern musical arrangements, inspirational visuals, and vocal performances by some of pop and country music's greatest artists.
"WePraise! Worship in Song" is the latest creative endeavor of award-winning producers Roger Hatfield and Joseph Porrello, whose CD/DVD project "Songs from the Neighborhood: The Music of Mister Rogers" garnered a 2006 Grammy Award for Best Musical Album for Children.
The duo created the WePraise! CD/DVD featuring songs beloved by generations of believers. "Contemporary Christian music has brought joy and meaning to the lives of countless people," said Hatfield, "but we can't ignore this rich treasury of music that is such a big part of our heritage. These songs are a wonderful part of the Christian experience. They've stood the test of time because they are simple, pure, honest, and worshipful."
Each song in the series is accompanied by powerful visuals selected for their peaceful and spiritual elements. "In order to enhance the worship experience, we chose visual themes that depict both personal faith and the beauty of creation," Porrello explained. "These visuals really add to the worship experience whether WePraise! is being used in personal devotions, small groups, or congregational gatherings."
Multi-platinum selling recording artists Crystal Gayle and B.J. Thomas, who together have won several Dove and Grammy Awards, are the featured performers on the first two WePraise! DVD and CD releases.
The seven music videos on each of the first two releases - "WePraise! Traditional" with Crystal Gayle and "WePraise! Inspirational" with BJ Thomas - feature three distinct listening and worship experiences.
With all tracks engaged, the powerful visuals complement the performer's lead voice, the backup singers, and the moving instrumental arrangement.
Each video can also be played without the performer's voice, leaving the inspirational images and words, the back-up vocals, and instrumental accompaniment.
A third option plays the instrumental track only, with no visuals. "The full range of options in each WePraise! song allows for different worship and performance experiences, from individual singing or performance, to choir and full congregational worship," said Porrello.
B.J. Thomas said the WePraise! project has taken him back to his musical roots. "This is the first music I learned to sing - it inspired me to be a singer," said Thomas. "I am grateful for a chance to sing these songs again. They inspire me today."
In addition to the just released DVDs featuring Thomas and Crystal Gayle, an upcoming Spanish language WePraise! collection will showcase top pop and Latin music artist Jon Secada. A total of 18 titles in the WePraise! line of products are planned for release over the next year, including more titles by top-performers and new artists.
The WePraise! collection will be available in Christian, music, and other retail stores on May 15th.
