Music|July 27, 2024 11:43 EDT
Matthew West announces his next studio album, "Don't Stop Praying," and releases uplifting single “Chosen”
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Five-time GRAMMY-nominated Christian artist and songwriter Matthew West announces his 13th studio album, Don't Stop Praying, due Friday, Oct. 4. Giving fans a sneak peek into the highly-anticipated project, West releases “Chosen,” available everywhere today, accompanied by an all-new lyric video capturing the powerful message the new track shares. Come October, the album will arrive in full with 12 inspiring tracks, including “Chosen,” and his No. 1 hit on Billboard's Christian Airplay chart, “Don't Stop Praying.” A co-writer on all songs, West's forthcoming project is dedicated to the theme of commitment to prayer in 2024.
“I've been waiting for the right time to announce what I've been working on and the day has finally come,” shared West. “I'm excited about this new record because each song is a story I've wanted to tell the world. Everything I write is inspired by what I'm experiencing in my story and what I'm seeing happen in the world around me. And while each song is different in its message, I feel like this album carries one central heartbeat: the message of a God who sees us, knows us, chooses us, loves us, and hears us when we pray. The song “Chosen,” speaks powerfully to me because I often forget that I'm worthy of being known by the creator of the universe. I had a feeling somebody out there needed that reminder too. October 4th can't get here fast enough!”
Today's release shines a light on the relatable insecurities we all face every day – from feeling abandoned, unworthy or like you don't belong, West's compelling vocals and poignant lyrics remind listeners of the constant truth: you are specially chosen by God for exactly who you are. Written by West, hailed by Billboard as “one of Christian music's most prolific singer-songwriters” along with Jeff Pardo, the song reassures listeners of their purpose and God's unwavering love. “You have been chosen, seen, known and loved every moment,” he proclaims. Watch the accompanying lyric video here.
Don't Stop Praying track list:
1. “Don't Stop Praying” (Matthew West, Jeff Pardo)
2. “Last Page of the Bible” (feat. Anne Wilson) (Matthew West, Anne Wilson, Jeff Pardo)
3. “Chosen” (Matthew West, Jeff Pardo)
4. “Unashamed” (Matthew West, Jeff Pardo, AJ Pruis)
5. “My Why” (Matthew West, AJ Pruis)
6. “18 Summers” (Matthew West, AJ Pruis, Jeff Pardo)
7. “Life Is Good” (Matthew West, Jeff Pardo)
8. “Goodbye Yesterday” (Matthew West, AJ Pruis)
9. “The Place Only We Know” (Matthew West)
10. “God's Hand” (Matthew West)
11. “Breakthrough's Coming” (feat. Stephen McWhirter) (Matthew West, Jeff Pardo, AJ Pruis)
12. “To Be With Jesus” (Matthew West, Jeff Pardo, AJ Pruis)
This week, West secured six GMA Dove Award nominations, recognizing his achievements as both an artist and songwriter. West earned nominations as a songwriter for Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year for Anne Wilson's "Strong,” Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year for CAIN's “Any More,” Bluegrass/Country/Roots Recorded Song of the Year for Anne Wilson's "Praying Woman (with Lainey Wilson)” and Bluegrass/Country/Roots Recorded Song of the Year for Rhett Walker's “Man On The Middle Cross.” West also earns two nominations as an artist for Christmas Recorded Song of the Year for “Because of Bethlehem” and Long Form Video of the Year for “Come Home For Christmas.”
A seven-time author, West has notched 34 No. 1 songs as an artist and songwriter combined and has received five GRAMMY nominations and a Primetime Emmy® Award nomination. He awaits his 17-stop Don't Stop Praying Tour in partnership with Awakening Events this fall and winter to continue sharing his music's encouraging message nationwide. Keep up with West and his upcoming announcements at matthewwest.com and on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and TikTok.
