One of Christian music's most successful groups will disband at the end of 2007. But not before embarking on a farewell tour that will take them across the country to say goodbye to fans with an all new live show packed with the group's biggest hits, including early material that hasn't been performed on recent tours.
"The past eight years with Jump5 has been the most amazing experience, but there comes a time when experiences have to end," says group member Brittany Hargest. "We've had a long run, but we have decided that it's time to move on to other things. All of us have started entering our twenties now, and there are many things that each of us want to do. We're all very excited to see what God has in store for us for the next few years individually and as a group."
"We can't wait to get back out on the road for the last time as Jump5 to see all of our incredible fans who have really supported us over the past eight years," adds Brittany. "Seeing every one of them again would make the experience complete!"
Jump5 hit the music scene in 2001, billing themselves as a family-friendly alternative to the PG-13 pop music that was exploding into the marketplace. Siblings Brandon and Brittany Hargest, along with childhood friends Lesley Moore, Chris Fedun and Libby Hodges (who left the group in 2004) quickly became a teen phenomenon, touring worldwide and releasing nine albums on EMI-owned Sparrow Records which collectively have sold over 1.2 million copies.
The group's inspirational lyrics reached out to teens and tweens with positive messages such as good self-esteem, being true to yourself, respecting and accepting others, and enjoying all that life has to offer. But their energetic live shows and undeniable pop hooks also earned the respect of fans of all ages.
Jump5 was one of the first Christian artists to find success in both the Christian and mainstream music industries. The group's non-stop touring had them performing in churches across the country, as well as taking the stage at major venues while touring with such artists as teen pop star Aaron Carter, A*teens, Baha Men and numerous Radio Disney tours. The group also performed for millions on national television with appearances on major outlets including Nickelodeon,
ABC Christmas Morning with Regis and Kelly,
CBS Early Show and The Disney Channel, to name a few. They performed for President George W. Bush at The White House, and found their songs prominently featured in several major motion pictures, including
The Lizzie McGuire Movie, Sleepover, Spy Kids, Ella Enchanted,
Ice Princess and
Brother Bear, as well as television programs like
Kim Possible and
Lilo & Stitch, for which they recorded the theme song.
The Jump5 Farewell Tour will be booked by Nashville-based Jeff Roberts and Associates, the group's longtime booking agency. The tour will run through the end of 2007, and dates will be announced in the coming weeks. Some additional projects are also in the works, including a possible "Farewell EP" featuring all new songs and a few select covers.
"We are planning on having a few more surprises before we finish," says group member Brandon Hargest. "And just because Jump5 is coming to an end, doesn't mean that we, as individuals, will be gone. We all want to keep performing, so look out for us in the future!"
Visit Jump 5's website
here.
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One of Christian music's most successful groups will disband at the end of 2007. But not before embarking on a farewell tour that will take them across the country to say goodbye to fans with an all new live show packed with the group's biggest hits, including early material that hasn't been performed on recent tours.
Infinity Music Distribution has partnered with former dcTalk vocalist Kevin Max for his upcoming album, The Blood. This is a very personal project for Max, allowing him to step back from his usual rock stylings in favor of a musical exploration of Gospel.
Inhabited is offering a free song download at their website for the song "Are You With Me?" And while you're at it, be sure to listen to another Inhabited song called "One Show" which talks about the hardships of the road and why the band continues on anyway. These guys may have lost their record label, but they're still going strong. Their MySpace page has some hilarious videos to watch as well.
For all the updated info, including tour dates, check out Sanctus Real's website and MySpace page.
