Winter Wonder Jam: How Christian music’s biggest tour became music’s biggest tour

Here’s a trick question…

Which of these tours had the highest attendance for the first quarter of 2011?

Justin Bieber?

Lady Gaga?

U2?

Try none of the above. The tour that outpaced all the rest…both Christian and secular was Winter Jam.

No, seriously.

Bieber’s got nothing on ‘em!

Since 1995, Winter Jam has showcased the top artists in Christian music…TobyMac, Third Day, Steven Curtis Chapman, Jeremy Camp and, of course, the founders of Winter Jam, NewSong…among others. As Winter Jam 2012 kicks off, the same holds true. With artists like Bulding 429, Kari Jobe, Peter Furler and Skillet on the bill, this year is guaranteed to be another record-breaker. But more impressive than ticket sales and attendance is Winter Jam’s unique commitment to not only presenting the Gospel, but following through with those who find it through a network of local churches and ministries. Read on for more of what makes Winter Jam the one of a kind event spectacular that it is.

The Lineup

Everyone knows, a show is only as good as the artists on the stage. True to form, year after year, Winter Jam has delivered not only the top artists in the Christian industry, but a range of artists that are sure to entertain the entire family. This year is no different. From Skillet to Veggie Tales, there’s truly something for everyone.

SKILLET – inset pic

With nominees and awards from Grammys to Doves and just about everything in between, there’s no doubt that Skillet has defied all norms when it comes to a Christian rock act. Their latest album, Awake, garnered their second RIAA gold certification, along with a No. 2 spot on the Billboard “Top 200” and No. 1 on iTunes. Read more here!

http://www.jamtour.com/artist/skillet

NEWSONG – insert pic

Aside from founding Winter Jam, NewSong remains one of the most celebrated bands in Christian music, with 20 #1 Christian radio singles, a #1 mainstream radio hit, a Grammy nomination and more. For more about their living legacy, click here.

http://www.jamtour.com/artist/hosted-by-newsong

SANCTUS REAL – Insert pic

Never one to shy from experimentation, Sanctus Real continually recreates its sound, which has led to seven No.1 radio singles, a Grammy nomination and the respect of fans and industry folks alike. “There’s a depth that naturally comes with age, and every couple years between albums there’s so much more growth spiritually, emotionally and even musically, and our music is evolving and progressing with life.” says front man Matt Hammit. Read more about the group here. http://www.jamtour.com/artist/sanctus-real

PETER FURLER – pic

He’s no stranger to Christian music. In fact, with over 7 million albums sold and 25 No. 1 hits to his credit, Peter Furler had a hand in shaping what we know today as the CCM industry. Now, the former front-man of the Newsboys is solo and heading out on his first  tour in quite a while. “This will be my first tour in three years. I’m excited to get out there and visit the truck stops again,” says Peter. “This is a first class event. The production’s amazing and to have a $10 ticket for ten bands is really incredible.”

Read more about Peter, the solo artist here.

http://www.jamtour.com/artist/peter-furler

Kari Jobe

Possibly best known as the voice who put Revelation Song on the map and in churches around the world, Kari Jobe is a shining star in the industry. With her sophomore hitting early winter, though, she’s proving that she’s got not only the vocal chops, but the writing depth that truly solidifies her as an all-around artist. Still, her heart begins and ends with worship. “I’m excited and really pumped that I’m doing worship right before the speaker,” she says. “That’s my cup of tea.” Read more about Kari here. http://www.jamtour.com/artist/kari-jobe

BUILDING 429

With their fifth album, Listen to the Sound, releasing in 2011, Building 429 proved that they have not only staying power, but are indeed a staple within the industry. On a deeper spiritual level personally than they’ve ever been before, the group is translating their heart for worship to their listeners around the world. Read more here. http://www.jamtour.com/artist/building-429

GROUP 1 CREW

In an industry that seemed to be completely void of hip hop, Group 1 Crew has redefined the rules of the game. Their infectious beats, powerful, but relatable lyrics and diverse sound are their means to a very intentional end—to reach out to those who might never give Christian music the time of day. Suffice it to say, it’s working. Their growing fan base and industry accolades evidence their appeal and their longevity. Read more here.

http://www.jamtour.com/artist/group-1-crew

DARA MACLEAN

For any newcomer to lock in a Winter Jam slot is pretty phenomenal. But with Dara Macelan, it just makes sense. Bringing the soul/pop sensibilities of main stream artists like Adele and Natasha Bedingfield to the Christina industry, Dara has the voice, the writing and the heart for a long and prolific career. Click here for more.

http://www.jamtour.com/artist/dara-maclean

FOR KING AND COUNTRY

The Smallbone brothers grew up in Australia and are now bringing their down-under sound to America. With an infectious sound and a distinct heart for ministry and music, for King and Country is definitely one to watch. More here…

http://www.jamtour.com/artist/for-king-and-country

WE AS HUMAN

Already tour mates with Skillet, We As Human is quickly plowing their way to the top of the industry. With a live show that’s on par with their tour-mates, they’re sure to leave quite a mark on the Winter Jam stage. Read more here!

http://www.jamtour.com/artist/we-as-human

ILLUSIONIST, BROCK GILL

In between the non-stop music, Winter Jam delivers even more entertainment in the form of illusionist, Brock Gill. Having traveled the world with his tricks and stunts, he has seen God touch thousands of lives through his unique ministry. Read more about Brock here.

http://www.jamtour.com/artist/illusionist-brock-gill

THE MISSION

From day one, Winter Jam endeavored to be more than just another concert…or just another tour. The heart of it all has always been to share the Gospel with as many people as possible…and then to follow through.

This year, with speaker Nick Hall and his unique use of social media, that vision will come to fruition like never before.

“All the artists are united with a passion for God, to make Him known. God honors that,” says Nick. “The priority is Jesus. The reason all of us are here is because we want people to know Jesus. Our job is to point to Jesus and do our best to reflect him.”

Through his ministry Pulse, Nick has already been working with student groups all over the country via Facebook and other forms of social media.

“We’ll be getting information from everyone who comes forward [at Winter Jam] with text messaging and then we’ll do our best to get them connected to a local church. Winter Jam makes sure that everyone who comes to Christ continues the journey with Him.”

“2011 exceeded everyone’s expectations,” adds NewSong’s Matt Butler. “There were over 100,000 people who made decisions for Christ. We expect God to do great things this year.”

In addition to the decisions made for Christ, over 50,000 children have been sponsored via Holt International because of Winter Jam stops. This year, the relationship with Holt continues, opening the door for many more children to have a chance at health, education and a relationship with Christ.

With a first- time West coast leg of the tour, this year marks a continuation of the commitment and faith of those who have been with Winter Jam from day one.

“Winter Jam has always been faith-based,” says Matt. “With no tickets and just ten dollars at the door, we’re trusting God to take care of it. We’re nervous, but excited.”

For a complete listing of Winter Jam stops and how you can become part of Jam Nation, visit jamtour.com.