'My Hope: Songs Inspired by the Message and Mission of Billy Graham' Features Christian Music's Biggest Names

By Justin Sarachik, Christian Post Reporter Thursday, July 18, 2013

A special tribute album to Reverend Billy Graham called, My Hope: Songs Inspired By the Message and Mission of Billy Graham will be released on October 15, and will feature 12 new songs from Christian music's top artists.

The names involved with the project include: Michael W. Smith, TobyMac, Amy Grant, Israel Houghton, Kari Jobe, Matthew West, Newsboys, Lacey Sturm, Tommy Coomes Band, Darlene Zschech, and Nicole Nordeman.

"We have been privileged to create this special album honoring Billy Graham, who's message has had a profound life changing influence in each of our lives and in the hearts of people throughout the entire world, " said Peter York, President, Capitol CMG Label Group in a press release. "Our sincere desire is that this collection of songs bring honor to Dr. Graham and the cross of Christ that he has faithfully represented over his many years of ministry. This project was written and recorded out of great respect and appreciation for this incredible man and his message of hope to the world."

This project will run side by side with My Hope America with Billy Graham evangelistic outreach as well as,"The Reason For My Hope: Salvation," by Graham.

"This is such a great project," said Michael W. Smith in the press release. "Everyone has come together out of our tremendous love and respect for Billy Graham. The impact he has had on all of us and the impact he has had on eternity is immeasurable. This is our attempt to pay honor to someone who has been an example, a mentor and an inspiration to all of us. I'm excited about the artists that are a part of the project and I'm excited about the thoughtfulness behind each of the songs. I think it truly is a collection of music that honors this great man."

Each of the artists involved with this project have some sort of personal experience with Billy Graham.

"On a summer day in the Chicago suburbs in 1990, a thirteen year old kid was changing the channels on his TV, looking for a Cubs game. But instead of a baseball game that day, he found a Billy Graham crusade. That young boy was me, and I will never forget the day I asked Jesus into my heart and how God spoke to me through Billy Graham. Being a part of the 'My Hope' project is a real full circle moment for me, a chance to say through music what Rev. Graham's ministry has meant to me and so many others. Thank you Reverend Graham!" said recording artist Matthew West.