New Ardent Artist Todd Agnew Fuses Many Influences with Worship-Driven Lyrics

Memphis-based Ardent Records announces the addition of artist Todd Agnew to its roster. A past staff member at Stonebridge Church in The Woodlands, TX and currently the worship leader at Highpoint Church in Memphis, Agnew is slated to release his national debut, Grace Like Rain, April 22, 2003.

Agnew originally intended to record an independent project and had not planned on signing with any label. Seeking for a place to meld his rock, blues, soul and gospel sounds, he began recording his album at the world-famous Ardent Recording Studios in Memphis.

“Walking by where Todd was recording, I found myself stopping and listening to his music,” says industry veteran Dana Key, Ardent Records’ director of A&R. “It wasn’t long before I wanted to get involved. Similarly, whenever I play some of Todd's music for people, it has the same effect of stopping them in their tracks. His music is definitely not background material—it’s music that demands attention.”

Not wanting to be pushed into any one category, Agnew wants to capture as many ears as possible with Grace Like Rain. He attributes his pop influences from playing Dave Matthews, Creed and Counting Crows covers in coffee houses and clubs earlier in his career. In addition to the vast collection of musical styles, Grace Like Rain focuses on teaching listeners to worship honestly and from where they are. Agnew’s plan for each song is to fuel inspiration through exalting the Creator with an honest and passionate approach.

“I haven’t limited myself to one style because musical creativity is an act of worship to an infinitely creative God,” says Agnew. “I didn’t want to put out an album where you could listen to one song and immediately put a label on me as a whole.”

Born Native American and adopted early by Texas natives, Agnew credits his spiritual growth to his parents’ commitment to church. Stemming from his experiences at non-traditional church camps, Todd Agnew teaches the depth and meaning of established songs, as well as his own music, to a younger generation by making the music more relevant, combining the classic with the progressive.

For a sample sound of Agnew’s title cut from his debut project, visit www.ardentrecords.com and click on music samples in the news section. PHOTO CAPTION: Memphis-based Ardent Records announces the signing of new worship artist, Todd Agnew. His April 22 debut, Grace Like Rain, combines the influences of Dave Matthews, Creed and the Counting Crows.

By CCM Magazine