Artist Spotlight

About Crossway

Change; it is a word that scares some people and excites others. It is something that will always be a part of life whether we think that we are ready for it or not. Over the past nine years, Crossway has not only seen change in the music industry they have been a part of it. For seven years, Crossway was known for their four part harmony as a more traditional southern gospel quartet. After losing a tenor to triplets, they chose not to replace the fourth part and pursue a different direction as a trio. For three years the group experienced a tremendous amount of respect and success as a trio in and outside of the music industry. It was not until February of 08 that the group was faced with a familiar decision to make when they lost another member as a result of a career change. This left remaining members Paul Smith and Matt McFarland with a decision to either call it quits, or be a part of something that had the potential to stir things up in the industry once again. With the support and encouragement of their loyal fans, and the ever growing need in the church to get back to the true meaning of the word gospel, (THE GOOD NEWS) the two decided to embark on this new and exciting journey. Matt has said, “We are sincerely passionate about encouraging others with a message that is so often forgotten and that message is that the love of God will not fail one person. That is good news.” The intentions behind their efforts to change the perception of southern gospel music and message are pure and unselfish. “We want nothing more than to present the greatest truth to as many people as we possibly can through music that is both fresh and exciting,” states baritone Paul. With the 2002 release of their multi Dove nominated album entitled, This I Know, the group made many people aware of their now unmistakable sound. With numerous radio hits, such as “It Looks Like Love,” Long Arm,” “Oh, My, My” and “Unscarred,” this album is considered by many to be a landmark in an industry that was needing someone to step up and present the Gospel in a new and innovative way. Billboard magazine agreed in an album review stating, “Crossway is a group who is defining the future of the southern gospel genre.” Because of their boldness, Crossway’s follow up record had been highly anticipated by both fans and the music industry. Entitled “A Beautiful Thing”, the album from start to finish is sure to leave a lasting impression on its listeners. It has already made an impression on southern gospel radio as they have landed a top 5 spot with the release of their very first single, “Wherever You Are.” This new record has given Crossway countless opportunities to sing on stages like the Grand Ole Opry and stand along side some of the industries most notable artists ranging from The Oak Ridge Boys to The Crabb Family. Matt and Paul are currently working on producing a brand new album as a duet that continues the musical direction of their last project, “A Beautiful Thing.” They are excited about creating new melodies, with fresh harmonies to truthful lyrics. In an industry full of quartets and trio’s, both Paul and Matt believe that the decision to continue as a duet will satisfy the desire of many to experience something different. The duo hopes to continue their string of radio successes with "Unfailing Love," which showcases the new line-up and is already in rotation at various radio markets across the country.