2 JUNE 2023 – NASHVILLE, TN – Worktapes…More Songs of Rich Mullins (listen HERE), the latest release commemorating the life and legacy of the late American songwriter and Gospel music icon Rich Mullins, is out now. Honoring the musical and lyrical prowess of the renowned songsmith, the Old Bear Records compilation features 15 intimate acoustic recordings of some of Mullins’ most prolific compositions—including “Creed,” “Elijah,” and “Calling Out Your Name”— as well as a never-before-released Mullins demo, and a range of other deep cuts penned by the late artist.
Bringing a fresh perspective to the Mullins classics, the “double album” includes contributions from Christian music indie darling Jess Ray, Americana-folk trio Brothers McClurg, Christian pop/rock singer/songwriter John Tibbs, Christian radio mainstay Josh Wilson, and Dove Award-nominated singer/songwriter Andrew Greer, among many others.
Greer co-created and co-produced Worktapes in partnership with fellow musicians and Old Bear Records founders Anthony Hoisington and Chris Hoisington, as well as UTR Media’s Dave Trout. “Creating a tribute record is a tricky task,” Greer comments. “So rather than reinterpret Rich’s beloved originals, we wanted to embody the spirit of Rich—the singer/songwriter and human being that has so influenced our lives and music—and through simple acoustic recordings and uncomplicated arrangements present the songs in an honest format. Where the song, and perhaps even most importantly, the song’s lyric, could be heard anew.”
“I was so thankful to be a part of such a special project,” notes singer/songwriter and Worktapes contributing artist John Tibbs. “Rich’s music has had such a broad and profound reach. To be able to play a small role in furthering his story is a true gift!”
Worktapes follows Bellsburg…The Songs of Rich Mullins, which released last year and features contributions from such artists as Amy Grant, Ashley Cleveland, Andrew Peterson and Taylor Leonhardt, as well as Deep Valley, a never-before heard live recording from Mullins’ early career. Both widely acclaimed projects topped iTunes Christian Albums chart in 2022.
Before his tragic death in 1997, Rich Mullins was the author and voice of songs such as “Awesome God,” “Hold Me Jesus” and “If I Stand.” Millions continue to connect with his countercultural perspectives on life and faith, and renowned artists from various genres have been influenced by Mullins’ simple musical arrangements and raw lyrics. Last year, the New York Times spotlighted Mullins’ legacy and the endurance of his music more than 25 years after his death. Read the story HERE.
To find out more about Bellsburg, Deep Valley, and Worktapes, visit RichMullins25.com.