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North Palm Worship's 'The First Noel' Featuring Deborah Hong: An Uplifting Christmas Classic

North Palm Worship, well known for their heartfelt worship, offers a fresh rendition of "The First Noel," featuring Deborah Hong. This is one of the most famous carols: a herald proclaiming the coming of Christmas. The First Noel's origins are humble.  The song came about during the Proto-Renaissance (the period that led into the Renaissance), during the 13th or 14th century. The First Noel was written as a way to express the excitement and wonder of Christmas. Hundreds of years ago, during a time without internet or phones, the people of Cornwall sang it in the streets as a way to spread hope and joy. The world may look very different today, but we still gather to sing the song for the same reasons. The song is a testament to the fact that no matter what the earth looks like, no matter how much time passes, the encouraging story of Jesus will always connect with the hearts that are desperate for Him. This rendition is also a call to unite in worship and sing this song fo...

Haddon’s ‘In Your Arms’: Finding New Life in Christ

Haddon's song "In Your Arms" does a beautiful job of describing challenges that many of us know all too well. Based on Romans 8:6, Haddon sings about his own battle with sin and how Christ helped him overcome. For many years, Haddon found himself stuck in a cycle of self-destructive habits and sin. Pride and lust had brought him to the end of his rope. He kept going further down and wondered when he would reach the bottom. But remembering Romans 6 brought him hope, realizing true life is found only by setting your mind on Jesus.  The lyrics feel like an honest conversation with a friend, urging those who feel lost or weary to turn to God. If you've ever felt crushed by pride, trapped by sin, or just plain exhausted, Haddon's assures you that life is full and hope is certain, where God's embrace is like a gentle hand that is guiding you back on track.  Only God brings hope and new life. As Haddon shares: "So through fire and water, whatever the trial may b...

Fia Nyxx's "Way Maker" - Finding God Through Music

Fia Nyxx embraces a theatrical approach to her music and is known for her “brilliantly experimental clash of genres”. Nyxx is evolving from her former pop-artist image to Christian music. From the moment you hear her soulful vocals, you’ll be reminded of artists such as Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, and Toni Braxton. Making music has always been a spiritual experience for Nyxx, one that defies genres. She released a Contemporary Worship EP, called “From The Mountain”, a four-song collection that has helped her during a challenging year of self-reflection, mental health struggles, and doubts about her faith. One of the songs on this EP is a cover of the song “Way Maker”, and despite the fact that this song has been covered by quite a few artists, this is a rendition that clearly distinguishes itself from other covers. Working alongside producer Sam J. Garfield, Nyxx crafted a version of “Way Maker” that’s both unique and preserves the original spirit of the song. It’s got five-part h...

Divine Vibes' "Prince of Peace" - A Progressive House Christmas Anthem

The productions of Divine Vibes are especially for lovers of the Progressive House and CEDM genres, and this track is a great addition to Christmas CEDM playlists. "Prince of Peace" by Divine Vibes is a fresh and energetic beat blended with the timeless prophecy from Isaiah 9:6. A message that aligns with the Christmas spirit and reminds us Who the true source is of peace, hope, and joy - Jesus Christ.  The lyrics capture the promise of Jesus' birth, with energetic rhythms and atmospheric synths that create a captivating soundscape. The lyrics are simple and reinforce some of the powerful names of Jesus that we commonly hear during this time of the year: Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. The lyrics bring our focus back to the most comforting truth on earth: "He is our Wonderful Counselor!"  May this track remind you that amid all of the chaos in life, lasting peace isn't found in worldly solutions. Lasting peace can only be found in Him. M...

Avery Stafford's "Manna (Come on Down)": A Reminder of God's Faithfulness

Avery Stafford's "Manna (Come on Down)" is a beautiful reminder that God never forgets us. The song was inspired by Avery's own journey of faith. He remembers how excited he felt as a 7-year-old standing in front of a church in San Jose, CA, when he said "yes" to Jesus. Avery has that same fire and excitement for God's constant presence and provision today.  The song's title is a nod to a youth rally called Mannafest, emphasizing that God continues to provide for us amidst life's challenges, just as He provided manna in the wilderness. God reigns, even though hopelessness, loneliness, and disappointments constantly plague our world. The acts and consequences of people's choices can distract our focus from God. It is through lyrics like "Remind me, Lord, just why I need You living in my dreams" and "Spirit, come on down," that Avery calls us to remember God's unending faithfulness and reignite our initial love and de...

Beth Merill's "Messiah": A Celebration of Hope

In Beth Merill's song "Messiah," she recounts the Christmas story with a beautiful pop/CCM melody. Beth indicated that the lyrics were inspired by Luke 2:11–14 and that she wanted to tell the story of Christ's birth in a way that was both personal and relatable. She loved the process of writing and producing this song, beginning back in November 2019. This version includes a hint of Christmas bells and cosy winter vibes.  The lyrics recount the incredible journey of Jesus, who left His heavenly throne to become our Savior. Jesus, the Light, came into a world that was filled with darkness and made it possible for us to be redeemed from all of our sins and return to the Father. The chorus is cheerful and invites us to join the angels as they worship and celebrate the true Light that came to the world on that Holy Night.  His birth isn't just a historical event; His coming to earth continues to be relevant to each and every one of us. May His gift to mankind also bri...

Kaleb Kaps Releases a Heartfelt Single 'Feet of the Father'

Kaleb Kaps has released his debut single, 'Feet of the Father'! This is a song that Kaleb wrote and released with the help of his producer in Nashville. The song is perfect for listening with the windows down on a summer day or for those moments when you're struggling and need His guidance.  Our deepest desire is to feel God's presence in our lives, especially when we're going through hard times. Kaleb sings about giving up control and placing your worries and fears at the feet of the Father. In doing so, you will feel His comfort and peace in your heart.  Kaleb's song beautifully captures the constant struggle we all go through: the weariness, the shame, and the low points in our lives. May you take a moment to listen to the lyrics, especially the part where Kaleb sings, "All my worries, He's got 'em." That is my biggest takeaway from this song, an invitation to find revival and peace at His feet and know that when we place our lives in God...