GRAMMY nominee and American Idol finalist Mandisa sees her third album’s release April 5, while celebrating—publicly—her personal success of shedding 100 pounds.

First single, “Stronger,” from What If We Were Real (Sparrow Records/EMI CMG Distribution) was inspired by the belief that surviving hardship makes a person more resilient—something Mandisa knows about from her struggle with weight loss.

"I can't think of a better time to have finally lost 100 pounds," Mandisa said. "How appropriate that on the day my single 'Stronger' is released, proclaiming that God is able to take us through the difficult times and bring us out stronger, He gives me a physical manifestation of that truth."

The extraordinary musicians of The Annie Moses Band visited the offices of Christian Retailing this month, performing four songs with their unique blend of fiddle, jazz and classical influences along with folk-inspired vocals.

Their theme song, 1988's "Make His Praise Glorious," first recorded by Sandi Patty, launched the songwriting career of Bill Wolaver (composer/arranger/pianist) and his wife, Robin (vocalist/lyricist/composer/ speaker). Their children joined them in what became a family band: Annie (lead vocals, violin), Alex (lead vocals, viola), Benjamin (cello), Camille (harp, keyboard, vocals), Gretchen (violin, mandolin, guitar, vocals) and Jeremiah (guitar). The older siblings trained at the Juilliard School, and all have studied with renowned instructors.

Learn more about Go Fish's VBS initiative and the group’s latest musical release by listening in on their interview with Christian Retailing Editor Andy Butcher.

{mp3}Go Fish{/mp3}

The Southern Gospel Music Guild (SGMG) recognized industry leaders Lou Wills Hildreth (photo left) and Judy Spencer Nelon (photo right) with the Lifetime Achievement Honor at a Sept. 14 reception held during the 2010 National Quartet Convention (NQC) in Louisville, Ky.

Opening with a welcome from NQC Executive Vice President Clarke Beasley, the afternoon celebration featured The Nelons singing "The Lord's Prayer," and host Jerry Goff introducing the presenters.

SGMG Vice President Beckie Simmons Bates, as well as Jimmy Blackwood, Fay Shed and Larry Gatlin--via phone call--contributed to Hildreth's presentation. Kelly Nelon Clark headed the list of presenters for Nelon, followed by Sue Dodge, Lisa Abraham and Eddie DeGarmo. Aaron Crisler presented red roses to both recipients.

Christian music fans converged on Orlando at two major events this past weekend, Night of Joy and Rock the Universe.

At Universal Studios, the Rock the Universe event headlined Skillet, Newsboys, Jars of Clay, Jeremy Camp, Relient K (pictured left; Credit: Kevin Kolczynski, Universal Orlando Resort), TobyMac and more.

At Disney, with the performance of Family Force 5 canceled due to a brief thunderstorm, Night of Joy, held at the Magic Kingdom park, saw such acts as Third Day, MercyMe and Smokie Norful take the stage.

Frontman Mac Powell of Third Day (pictured right) was especially pleased with the patience and enthusiasm of the crowd despite the rain delay. At times playing through raindrops, the band finished its set and came back for more--concluding with the hit song "Revelation," giving a gospel message and commemorating the anniversary of 9/11.