Christian Music News

NASHVILLE, Tenn.—Hymns, the sophomore Gaither Music Group/Servant Records recording from Guy Penrod, Christian music’s premier country recording artist, achieved chart-topping sales success following its release March 27. Hymns was the top seller on Nielsen SoundScan’s Southern Gospel retail chart; #5 on the Current Contemporary Christian chart; and entered The Billboard 200 at #85. First-week sales of Hymns surpassed those of Penrod’s 2010 solo debut, Breathe Deep, which has gone on to sell more than 85,000 units.

Produced by Penrod and Pete Greene, Hymns showcases 13 of the award-winning artist’s favorite selections, including the debut single, “Does Jesus Care?,” a duet with the legendary George Beverly Shea. The project also features “The Old Rugged Cross,” “What a Friend We Have in Jesus,” “Amazing Grace,” “Count Your Blessings” and “Leaning on the Everlasting Arms,” among others.

Penrod’s 2010 Dove Award-nominated Gaither Music Group/Servant Records release, Breathe Deep, continues to be a benchmark for country recordings within the Christian marketplace, featuring successful mainstream country and southern gospel radio singles. A 2011 Texas Gospel Music Hall of Fame inductee, Penrod made his Grand Ole Opry debut last year. Prior to his solo career, Penrod spent 14 years with the GRAMMY® and Dove Award-winning Gaither Vocal Band.

Hymns is distributed by EMI CMG Distribution and is available at retail and digital outlets worldwide, as well as Cracker Barrel Old Country Stores®. The new recording is positioned heavily at retail and is being aired as part of a direct TV campaign on networks including GAC, RFD, GMC, TBN, FamilyNet, CTS, CTN, TCT, TLN, Airtime 1 and GMTN and in Canada on Grace, Legacy, Miracle and Vision.

For further information, visit www.guypenrod.com