Billy Smiley, co-founder and member of
the Christian mega-group White Heart, has launched Devotion Music, a
sub-division of Cul De Sac Records. The new label will focus on original
worship music from various denominations and musicians worldwide. “Worship
Extreme”, the first truly radical rock worship record addressing the musical
tastes of teens, features #1 songs from Dove Award winning and nominated
groups such as Pillar, East West, Justifide, and newcomers Anthem, SoulStar,
and ForthRight! It is slated for release on December 3rd. The first three
releases from Devotion, “Modern Worship”, “Quiet Worship” and “Scripture
Song”, are in stores now.
Smiley has been developing and producing artists for over 15 years and has
achieved career sales of over 2.5 million units as an artist, producer, and
songwriter. He has worked with numerous artists encompassing a wide variety
of musical styles including Newsboys, The Normals, Rhonda Gunn, American
Made, Justifide, Margaret Becker, Gaither Vocal Band, Geoff Moore, and of
course, WhiteHeart. His credits also include co-writing 22 number one songs,
producing 27 number one songs, five Grammy® nominations, and 27 Dove Award
nominations. Finished records produced by Smiley for release in 2003
include new rock sensation Anthem, and extreme worship group DW (formerly
Daniel’s Window).
“I am excited to have the opportunity to use the talents God has given me
along with my twenty years of experience in the music industry to help young
artists achieve their dreams,” said Smiley. “I’ve had the honor of
following my dreams and performing with the best musicians and artists I
know. Now I have the opportunity to invest in the young artists who are the
future of the industry and the next generation of Christians who will lead
others with their witness and talent.”
Cul De Sac Records was formed in August 2001 by Smiley and his business
partner Eric Tooker (of Ministry Insights International). Cul De Sac Records
has partnered with Diamante/Butterfly Group for distribution of its products
to the Christian market within the United States and Canada.
