News

12.27.2011 - Swimming With Dolphins - "Sleep To Dream"

Coming from the latest album by the Tooth & Nail digi-centric singer/songwriter Austin Tofte, better known as "Swimming With Dolphins" is a great up beat track that takes me off to the coastline strolling the beach with my girl. "Sleep To Dream" is one of those songs that pours good vibes into every note that crosses the airwaves into your eardrums. This sand between your toes, breeze blowing, sun shining, feel good track is like a three and a half minute vacation from reality.

The crazy part about this upbeat jam is that the lyrics tell a completely different story. With a story line that is relevant in a lot of relationships, the lyrics take the listener on a journey of a touch and go relationship with many almost normal goodbyes. The contrast between song and lyrics is similar to some secular tracks that I have heard lately that leave you feeling good until you actually stop to listen to the lyrics, which leave you nothing less than completely confused. The difference with "Sleep To Dream" is that the contrast works in a way that only a true singer/songwriter can pull off.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT SWIMMING WITH DOLPHINS

12.26.2011 - Matthew West - "The Heart Of Christmas" - My final Christmas 2011 post

I was watching music videos with my son this morning, and saw this video. Wow, it hits "The Heart Of Christmas". The movie this is from looks powerful. God Bless.....

12.25.2011 - Merry Christmas, Help the flood Victims in Philippines !!!!!

I know I said I was taking a few days from FB, Twitter, and Five16, and so far I have. However, as I was opening gifts with my Filipino wife and Filipino American baby boy this morning, I had a strong desire come upon my heart to add a link to Five16.com for donation to the flood victims in the Philippines. I chose to link up to a reputable organization, the Philippines Red Cross. If you feel that you would like to help those in need, feel free to click the link and make a donation.

Chad Armel aka CA - Executive Editor

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE PHILIPPINE RED CROSS

12.24.2011 - Merry Christmas and God Bless

I am writing early this Christmas Eve to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and may God Bless your holidays. As always, I also want to thank each of you for the continued support. Five16 has had tremendous growth in the second half of 2011. I expect the growth to be even greater in 2012. I can definitely feel the Lords presence and guidance. Church on Friday evening was amazing and led me to the decision to take the next few days off from FB, Twitter, and Five16 to spend time with Family, Friends, and Our Lord.

During your holiday festivities, remember the true "Reason For The Season" is the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. Take this time to regroup, renew, and rejoice.

I will be back in a few days and there is much to post in the "Latest News" blog. We also have the first all music issue planned to be released sometime in February.

God Bless.....

Chad Armel aka CA - Executive Editor

12.19.2011 - The Old Timers - "Due to Record a New Album"

The Old-timers are a punk outfit from South Africa, formed by good friends Dave & Don. Dave is originally from England and moved to South Africa with his wife and kids in late 2009 as full time missionaries, working with the needy and underprivileged in prisons, on the streets, in schools and wherever else God leads them. Don is a native of South Africa and is also married with two kids, and works as a youth pastor for his church as well as running his own pie company. Both have been involved in punk since an early age, playing in bands, promoting and running 'zines in their respective home towns. Most notably Dave played in Dragged Out with former members of The Exploited & Voice Of The Mysterons, and Don has played with a variety of musicians and was involved in multiple organizations and Â‘zines who helped promote the anarcho-punk scene in Port Elizabeth in the early 90's.

The Old-timers' recording process is pretty unusual as Dave & Don live twelve hours apart. Further complicating matters is that drumming is handled by Matt Lagusis from False Idle at the Simpul Studios in Boise, Idaho, in the United States. Leveraging modern technology, the Dave & Don put vocals and music together, then forward it over for Matt to add the drum track, then back to South Africa for mixing and mastering.

The purpose of The Old-timers remains what it has always been Â– to glorify God in every song, to reach a desperate world with the good news of God's grace & love and to have a ton of fun while we're doing it! Musical influences include GBH, Hit The Deck, Minor Threat, Officer Negative, Crass, Headnoise, Conflict, God So Loved The World and many other old school punk and early hardcore bands. Get ready for SOLI DEO GLORIA! coming in February 2012.

You can download a free copy of the Old-timers first album by clicking HERE

All proceeds from the sale of SOLIO DEO GLORIA! will be donated to support the Missionary work by Dave and his family at Siloam Christian Ministries (http://www.siloam.org.uk/089.htm), which provides medical aid, education and social help. You can also donate to help support DaveÂ’s efforts (please e-mail info@siloam.org.uk to confirm that your gift is for Project 089). Many in the Christian punk community have come together to support Â“SOLIO DEO GLORIA!Â”, which will be released jointly by Thumper Punk Records, Veritas Vinyl and Caustic Fallout. The Old-timers artwork was graciously contributed by Dave Besanson Originals, and digital mastering services are being provided by Lanthanum.

12.18.2011 - K-Jay - "Do Sumthin Wit It" - Takin it beyond the four walls

From 1 Way Entertainment, K-Jay takes the message beyond the four walls of the Church and into the club with this banger. "Do Sumthin Wit It" has that swagger to it that keeps the dance floor poppin, but gives praises and ministers at the same time. 1 Way Entertainment continues to drop heat on their tracks, and this video is no exception.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT 1 WAY ENTERTAINMENT

12.15.2011 - Reconcile - "One Step Closer"

Representing Frontline Movement, Reconcile is an artist that makes it a point to live his music, and not just leave it on the stage after the show. In his track "One Step Closer", the Fort Myers FL artist talks about the constant battle of decisions and influences from all sides. With the struggles from within, mixed with the struggles of the outside world, we are all one step closer to just losing it all. Throughout the track, he tells the stories of hard times on the streets, but in the end, he once again shows that his tracks not only entertain, but guide the listener to the Lord. As you listen and bounce your head, you are being guided to the most important thing, Gods love and salvation. He leaves the listener with an important and powerful message, and a question you have to ask yourself. Are you one step closer to your dreams, One step closer to the grave, One step closer to prison, or most importantly, are you one step closer to God? Everyday we are faced with decisions that will bring us one step closer, but the question you have to answer for yourself is, one step closer to what?

CLICK HERE TO VISIT FRONTLINE MOVEMENT

12.13.2011 - Ministry Heat - "Double Edge Ministries"

Through music and movies, Double Edge Ministries is on track to change the Christian Hip Hop scene. By setting standards high in production to battle the secular projects, DEM is able to push projects themselves that talk to believers and non believers alike. This is what ministry is all about, reaching those who need to hear about the Lord in a way that they can relate to. I decided to call this "Latest News" blog post "Ministry Heat" because that is what Double Edge Ministries puts out when they release a new project. From the latest music release "Who Is Buck Barnabas" to their first full length animated movie and upcoming short film, DEM continues to bang out pure heat. They are on a clear mission to carry out a powerful message that provides them the ability to change lives. Through DEM Films, producer and film director Kre8tor depicts the decisions and overwhelming pressure that is placed on a person once they accept the Lord into their hearts and go back to the streets with their new found Faith. Walking a new path in and old world presents a line that was never noticed before and more then ever should not be crossed.

D.E.M. Films presents its first full feature animated film Pressure, debuting on DVD in 2011. The gripping tale surrounds the life of Kre8tor, prominent hustler and gang boss who finds himself entangled in a web of deception, betrayal, and murder.

Landing in prison after being set up by an envious enemy, Kre8tor discovers true freedom behind bars when a fellow inmate leads him to Christ. After serving out his sentence, the reformed ex-gangster returns to his old stomping grounds a changed man. But will he succumb to the pressure to return to his old ways after adjusting to life on the outside proves difficult?

Full of plot twists and turns, plus special bonus features including: Videos, exclusive cast interviews, and a blazing hot original soundtrack featuring music from D.E.M.'s superb artist roster, Pressure is a must-have urban Christian film for your collection. The Pressure movie soundtrack is now available. Visit the D.E.M. store to download it. GO

CLICK HERE TO VISIT DOUBLEEDGEMINISTRIES.COM

12.10.2011 - False Idle - "Blog Interview"

Five16: Thanks for sitting down to do a short blog post interview. I'm sure our readers will enjoy reading about whats new with False Idle and whats to come in the future. So let's get started. What are you guys up to and whats planned for 2012?

Sef: We are starting the writing process for our summer 2012 release. With some cool surprises that we have not announced yet.

Five16: So have you been playing anywhere?

Sef: We have started playing acoustic shows locally as a fun way to be able to play at coffee shops and record stores without having to have the full band setup.

Five16: So when do you expect to get together again as a full band to play a show?

Sef: My wrist has finally recovered enough, from the pre-show skate park break, that I have been able to start playing guitar again, and we will be playing our first (full band) show with me on guitar on Dec 14th.

Five16: What new projects have you been working on? Have you guys had any recent releases?

Sef: We release 3 singles over the last couple of months, 1 for the IVM "Punk Never Dies Comp" with bands like MxPx, FF56, Dogwood, Craigs Brother... and a ton more. One Christmas song for a 7" Christmas Compilation being released by Veritas Vinyl soon, and which just became available on iTunes. And one Mortification Cover song.

Five16: Any changes the fans can look forward to when the band gets back together again?

Sef: Our second guitarist will be back for good in Feb, So I will then take the position of strictly Lead vocalist, I'll probably still do a little bit of guitar playing...

Five16: Well thanks for giving us a minute to get an update on False Idle. Is there anything else you would like to add?

Sef: That's all I can think of off the top of my head... but there is probably more somewhere.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT FALSEIDLEPUNK.COM

12.9.2011 - Brutha War - "An Inspirational Warrior"

Out of Atlanta, GA comes a southern style with a West Coast twist better known as Brutha War. Listening through his tracks, I got a feel of old school southern rap on some tracks, and west side flows on others. This combination of smooth lyrical rhymes give Brutha War a style that can speak to many people, which is what this artist strives for with his free music projects. Brutha War makes music to inspire those that struggle, those who have been broken, disenfranchised, marginalized, oppressed, and lost.

Brutha War grew up between the middle class and the hood. He struggled with low self esteem, depression, and some serious family issues as a kid. Suffering the same trials and tribulations as many, Brutha War tells his story so others can relate. As a kid, Brutha War did not have many friends until he started hanging with gang members, small time drug dealers, and pimps. He also found a way to overcome being a shy kid, so he could pull off being "cool".

With a love for reading, writing, and hip hop, Brutha War started recording tracks in his bathroom, and was encouraged by the kids in the hood. He chose to use this talent to make a difference in an oppressive world. Early in his career, Brutha War teamed up with two other artists and formed a group called Bruthaz Grimm. Eventually, however, he chose to write strictly inspirational lyrics. The other two members of Bruthaz Grimm later accepted salvation as well and the group signed to the label Grapetree and after three projects, the label sunk and the group separated.

Brutha War explains his mission well when he says, "I write to encourage people that are in despair to have hope. I don't worry about impressing stuffy church people, or the schizophrenic music industry. I want to speak truth into peoples lives who are suffocating in lies. I am a warrior, words are my weapon, fighting for peace. I cover many topics dealing mostly with the emotional & spiritual issues in our real life struggles as children of light in a world shrouded in darkness. My main theme is a call to action to actually be the change that we want to see in this world today. We all have a miraculous divine purpose if we choose to accept it. In order to accomplish this we must first overcome our greatest adversary...the man or woman in the mirror. I believe that most of us live far beneath our calling & purpose in life. Fear is what suppresses most people."

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD FREE ALBUMS

12.3.2011 - The Way "Helpless But Not Hopeless"

“Helpless But Not Hopeless” is the second release by Oxnard, California based band The WAY. This powerful album includes seven songs that blend their classic punk sound with an ounce of the blues and metal tinged riffs. The WAY’s music brings the Truth and the Life to everyday problems, discouraging situations, and questions about who we are. Addressing life’s gritty realities through the lens of Faith, Forgiveness and Hope, The WAY delivers an uplifting message through music influenced by Social Distortion, Rise Against and Pennywise.

“Helpless But Not Hopeless” is available for pre-order through the Thumper Punk Records website, and will be available for digital download at all the usual places in the near future. Their song “Don’t Let It Die” appeared on the Indie Vision Music compilation called Punk Never Dies, Volume 1. Additional information about The Way can be found at http://www.myspace.com/theway805 and http://www.reverbnation.com/theway805. Additional information about Thumper Punk Records and a link to its webstore can be found at www.thumperpunkrecords.com. CD pre-orders are $7 for shipments December 15.

12.2.2011 - Tru2DaName "Yours Truly" Mixtape FREE!!!!!

The hot new project 'Yours Truly' is the first release from Preacher Boy Entertainment's latest signing.

The UK based rapper has described his new project as "What I do, who I am and where I am from. All of the songs fit into one of these categories and listening to this is going to be like reading me. I plan to be here for a while so to help you get used to me, I present 'Yours Truly'."

The mixtape features collaborations with Jay Dolph, fellow ForeRunnaz, Jahaziel and E Tizz and many more, and also features production from Ghetto Ace, Emvy, V-Man, Lionel from SkyBoy Records and J Williams who also featured on S.O.'s "So It Begins" Album.

Twitter: twitter.com/tru2daname

Twitter Trend: #YoursTruly

Facebook: facebook.com/tru2daname

Website: www.tru2daname.com

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD YOURS TRULY

11.30.2011 - Strapping on the combat boots for teen ministry "Company 78"

As much as I love the church I attend, some may already know, I try to never write articles related to any particular church. I prefer to do as God has placed on my heart and spread the work of positive music artists to give the next generations of youth something positive in their lives. This past few weeks however, our pastor announced a new campaign that is directly in line with Five16 Magazines mission. Last week, I had the idea to write an article about this new campaign, but after thinking about it, I chose not to write it. As I sat in church this morning, the thought hit me again, and once again, I dismissed the idea, but in normal fashion, God placed that fire in my heart and well, as you can see, he won that argument.

A few weeks back, our pastor presented to us the "Company 78" drive campaign to fund a large addition to our church in order to have the capacity to reach more kids. As he explained to the church the incredible need to reach as many as possible of the children whose hearts are being fought for by the evil in this world, he spoke about the need to be militant, which is part of the meaning behind "Company 78". As a group effort like a company in the military, the church has come together in battle to win the future generations back. The "78" from the title comes from Psalm 78, and as this all unfolded, I could not help but think about how much this campaign aligned with Five16 and what God has placed on my heart to do.

Psalm 78:1-6 (NLT)

"O my people, listen to my teaching. Open your ears to what I am saying, 2 for I will speak to you in a parable. I will teach you hidden lessons from our past -- 3 stories we have heard and know, stories our ancestors handed down to us. 4 We will not hide these truths from our children but will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the LORD. We will tell of his power and the mighty miracles he did. 5 For he issued his decree to Jacob; he gave his law to Israel. He commanded our ancestors to teach them to their children, 6 so the next generation might know them -- even the children not yet born -- that they in turn might teach their children."

As he continued to explain exactly what it is the church is planning to do for the battle, I almost gasped for breath when he told us how many square footage of warehouse space our church purchased for a new Teen worship room and multi sport room, and that we needed to raise funding to remodel the space. It was at that moment that I thought this military campaign is serious. As a true commander in chief, he definitely chose a great battle. The future generations are under attack by the secular world like never before. If we don't reach them, who will? As I look into my own sons eyes, how can I turn away as if nothing is happening, or as if everything in the world is perfect? The truth is, if we don't strap on the boots and begin battle, our kids will look around and see nobody there. Feeling alone and secluded in the world will leave a heart to cling to whatever reaches out to it. This is the incredibly thin line between saved and lost that can be erased when we choose to lead our kids into the battle, rather then let them roam alone.

I look forward to seeing the end result of "Company 78" and at the same time, I am encouraged to push forward with the mission of Five16 Magazine. If you are interested in finding out more about "Company 78", I encourage you to check it out by Clicking Here.

11.25.2011 - Andy Mineo "In My City" - My Black Friday Letter

On this Black Friday 2011, I thought I would sit down and give you something to refresh you. This week, I have had a lot of great content submitted from very talented artists on fire for the Lord. This morning I ran across one that was put out a while back, but will remain relevant for as long as we are here on earth.

Andy Mineos track "In My City", is not only an important message, but Andy Mineo showcases crazy smooth lyrical skills on this track. Wrap that with a great chorus and a video shot in his City, N.Y. City, and you have a powerful classic that has a meaning that will stand true for eternity.

This track and video represents what all Christians should have on their hearts; to not only sit in church and associate with Christians, but to hit the streets and bring God to the City, to the Country, to the Suburbs, to the World. The movement for all of us should be to reach out to the teens in this world with a helpful hand and lead them into their futures. If we let them be led by the world, we are setting them up to never come home. They will unfortunately remain lost until will can reach them. We cannot reach them from the Church if they are in the streets.

Today I'm going to skip out on shopping. I'm going to spend time with my wife and son and reflect on the importance of reaching the younger generations, and what I can do to make it happen. I ask you the same thing. What can you do?

Andy Mineos latest release, the "Formerly Known" mixtape is a solid 14 tracks featuring Eshon Burgundy, Lacrae, Co Campbell, Beleaf of The Breax, KB, Sho Baraka, Swoope, Rich Prez, R-Swift, and Bubba Watson. The mixtape can be downloaded from the Reach Records website. - Executive Editor, CA

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD FORMERLY KNOWN

11.19.2011 - Young Chozen "The Campaign"

Young Chozen hits the mic with a fresh style that feels just right playing at the club, which is where the self proclaimed "Class Prez" believes he will reach the people that he needs to reach. He comes to the microphone with not only a swagger in his style, but an undeniable mission to spread the Gospel in a way that touches you with inspiration. From small groups of 20 kids to large arenas, Young Chozen has had the opportunity to spread his campaign mission to crowds of all sizes.

According to Young Chozen, his mission is to speak life into this generation with music that appeals to people on all levels. He began his musical career at the age of 12 with his first Yamaha keyboard. Living and growing through hard to conquer issues including divorce, loneliness, street life, and many other struggles, he made a choice in 2005 to use his life and music to help make the lives of others better. Through his passion and aspirations, he has helped reach his dreams, and is now changing the world with his message filled music. In a world that is starving for something positive and something real, Young Chozen is bringing inspiration in his music.

In his latest mixtape "The Campaign", the sixth on his resume, Young Chozen drops that God inspired fire over some of the hottest tracks out today. From the intro track, "The Campaign Speech - I Will", he sets the mission with a speech set over an inspired track. Throughout the album, he never lets the mission slide, but at the same time, he definitely hits you with some incredible club bangers that will no doubt have you bouncing your head. His lyrical flow is so tight and smooth, it's easy to get wrapped up in every syllable he spits, which is why his message is so strong. After listening through "The Campaign", Young Chozen has my vote for class president if he promises to keep hitting the mic with such positive and inspiring bangers.

Get all the latest info at the "Young Chozen Headquarters" Official Website

11.13.2011 - Thumper Punk Records "Winter Sampler" (2011)

Indie Vision Music just released the very first Thumper Punk Records "Winter Sampler" (2011) which features eight songs from four of the great punk bands that are currently signed to the Thumper Punk Records label. This is a great compilation of Christian Punk Bands. For fans of true punk music, you will definitely want get this one. The free download is available at Indie Vision Music and includes songs by The Kings Kids, False Idle, Absolved, and The Way. Take a minute to visit the site and grab yourself a free early Christmas present.

Track Listing:

Absolved – Relentless Leathernecks (This One Goes To Seven EP)
Absolved – Confronting the Atheistic Sideshow (self-titled “Red” album)
The Kings Kids – Skies Await (Set Sail and Seek… album)
The Kings Kids – Urgency (Urgency! Album)
False Idle – God Rulz (Mortification Tribute Album)
False Idle – High Hopes (I Refuse EP)
The Way – Don’t Let it Die (Helpless But Not Hopeless EP)
The Way – Walking Dead (The Fights Is Ours LP)

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

11.12.2011 - Uriel The Ace - "The Unfinished Project"

Recently I received an email from a hip hop artist name Uriel the Ace, basically just telling his story and asking about Five16. As I read his email, I could feel a special power and the genuine passion he had for his music as well as for God. It was as if he laid his heart out on his hand for real. I actually never had an email that talked to me the way this email did. After listening to a few of his tracks, I came across his song "Lights On" and God really laid it on my heart to reach out to this guy. Not only does he have crazy skills, but he is marching strong for the Lord.

The debut release by Uriel The Ace "The Unfinished Project" includes sixteen tracks including "Lights On" and a positive banger "Industry Nameless". Uriel is quick to point out that he is not looking for fame or fortune through his music, only to glorify God. It is refreshing to see an artist so pure in his desire to Glorify God and not necessarily in his desire to gain fame or riches. With the amount of negativity portrayed in secular hip hop, the only way for the younger generations to get a positive message is through incredible young talent like Uriel The Ace.

When asked about "The Unfinished Project" Uriel The Ace sums it up well.

"This is a collection of music that I had been building for a few years, that hadn't been completed; hence the title, and wanted people to hear. This was something that God placed on my heart. Music is my heartbeat and God is the blood that runs through it. I tried to have all kinds of feels so that anyone could relate or feel at least one of the songs on there. It's done way better than I would have imagined. God is truely AWESOME." - Uriel the Ace

I look forward to working with Uriel The Ace. We have plans to bring to you an article about his trip to Africa as well as an exclusive interview. You can check out the debut project at The Unfinished Project mixtape page at soundcloud.com

11.6.2011 - "Been So Wrong" Credit featuring Crucifix

Today the world was hit with another Crucifix Film. This time by way of an incredible talent named Credit and Phive Media. It's amazing how God uses raw talent and brings people together in ways they never would have imagined or planned. But after following with Faith, not knowing what the end will bring, they come out with not only a great project but growth as well. As Credit reflects through his lyrics, it's easy to see the pain and feel the truth in his cries out to the Lord, and if you haven't known by now, you should know, when Crucifix drops a hook, you are listening to his heart and soul, with 100% put into every note.

"Been So Wrong" featuring Crucifix is Credits cry out to God to pull him from his past and all the wrong he has done. The video by Crucifix Films is set in an abandoned building that as a viewer, appeared to reflect the emptiness a heart feels when you are trapped and feeling helpless. Throughout the video, there are powerful shots of the two artist standing back to back in a fog filled room with light shining through, as if God's light is shining on them. The shot choices in this video compliment the feel of the track and provide an incredible view into the heart of the song. Bringing these two artists together on a track is like watching God's work at God's time. - CA

11.05.2011 - Punk Never Dies Vol. 1

Thanks to our good friends at Thumper Punk Records, I was tipped off on a huge project released by Indie Vision Music. On October 31, 2011, Indie Vision Music released their first ever Punk Rock compilation “Punk Never Dies Vol. 1” as a free download.

This free album download features songs from 75 punk bands including all of the Thumper Punk Records bands. This nearly 350mb digital album is jam packed with some solid and inspirational punk rock tracks that show with perfection that you can have great music and show your Faith to the fullest. For anyone who has read the interview with “The Kings Kids” that was featured in Five16 Magazine, you will notice that they are also included on this album. “The Kings Kids” are now on the Thumper Punk Records Label along with other great bands like False Idle and The Hoax.

When talking about the new project on the Indie Vision Music website, Brandon Jones writes, “I am so proud to be presenting bands as diverse as The Altar Billies, which feature legendary singer/songwriter/guitarist Mike Stand who helped inspire a whole generation of punk rockers with his time in The Altar Boys, to Mxpx who helped usher in a new era of “punk rock” in the 90s that wasn’t afraid to have a good time and still wear “faith” on it’s sleeve, to Dogwood who singer Josh Kemble declared “My Faith in you will never die….” and on to a whole new crop of bands that will hopefully re-establish what it means to be punk rock and inspired by Faith, here in 2011. I encourage you to check out this free digital download (going live on November 1st), listen to all the songs, and finally visit all the bands on their social media sites listed below. Support these hard working bands by going to their shows, buying their merch, buying their albums, telling your friends about them, and spreading the word. Every little bit helps. Enjoy!”

As you can quickly tell, this album is a compilation of the best of what Punk Rock has to offer for positive music fans that are tired of the negativity that drowns us in the pool of faithless lyrics. If you are in need of some great new free music, take some time to visit Indie Vision Music and help support “Punk Never Dies Vol. 1” by downloading the album then telling your friends. - CA

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

11.04.2011 - Letter From The Editor: "A new Chapter has begun"

Over the past two years, I have been on a journey that at times has not had a crystal clear path.  It's as if I grabbed a backpack and hit the road with no map or idea of where my journey would take me.  Every issue, interview, article, etc. of Five16 Magazine and Five16.com has been edited by myself, but along the way, I have had the help of a few great and creative people.  My wife has had a great eye for detail and given her opinion on what the readers would like to view in the pages of every issue.  My dear friend Crucifix was a crucial part of the "Special Anniversary Edition" that we released early this year.  His story, passion, creative mind, and drive not only helped create a powerful issue but also helped Five16 Magazine survive another year.  The growth that we experienced through the editing of that issue was no doubt a true gift from God.

I know you all have probably been wondering what the future is for Five16.  That is the question I consistently ask the Lord.  You see, I am only on the journey because the Lord has placed it on my heart.  If it were not for the conviction that the Lord has placed upon me, I would have walked away about a year ago.  This is truly a journey that I must completely rely on his guidance for.  I have never had a project quite like this in my life.  I do believe that through it all, I will continue to mold and shape Five16 until one day it is just right.

In the past few weeks, I have decided to take the next step of reshaping Five16 to only cover positive music.  Covering actions sports and music grew to be a bit more than I could keep up with.  I know this may be a bummer for some action sports enthusiasts, but music can truly reach the world, and there is a vast amount of positive music out there that is not getting coverage by main stream media.

CA - Executive Editor
"I am only on this journey, God is the tour guide!" - CA 2011

Positive.Progressive.Change

10.23.2011 - Download the Speaking Volumes 1

Check out this collection of 25 songs from some of the "Rising Stars" of Urban Gospel Music. After listening to this album over the past week, I have been reminded that great hip hop does still exist.

MC Psalmist's track "First Love" is an old school track that takes you back to the days of smooth flow rhymes that tell a great story. Another track that took me back to days gone by is "Sin No More" by 2nd Chance. This dancehall reggae track tells a powerful story while making you bounce while you listen. The album also supplies you with other hip hop styles including the southern sounding track "Praise God" by Verselife. One of the tracks with the most powerful message on the compilation has to be Jermaine Wilson's "Music Can't Save The World", where he warns the listener that you can do whatever you want to make a great song, but in the end music can't save the world, but the Lord's word can. Divenomous brings you a west coast track with "Soul Patrol".

A track that is sure to get you bouncin your head from the first bars is "Weak Become Heroes" by Souls Rest. With a techno style beat and smooth flowing lyrics, matched with a catching female hook, this is the albums dance anthem. My favorite track and the most pure hip hop to the soul is "Amnesia" by Oracle. This is a definite banger that will stay on your play list for a while. "Lost and Found" by Shyne and Stone is another southern style banger that will be a hit to any fan of southern hip hop. With 27 tracks and a free download, "Speaking Volumes 1" is a definite must have for your playlist. Get your copy now! - CA

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

7.24.2011 - Download the free Tooth & Nail Summer Sampler!

Get your copy of the 2011 Summer Sampler from Tooth & Nail Records. Download free tracks from Emery, Underoath, Sainthood Reps, I Am Empire, Write This Down, The Almost, Swimming With Dolphins, Rocky Loves Emily, and more of your favorite Tooth & Nail bands. This offer is twice as nice, because while your downloading the Summer Sampler from Tooth & Nail, you can download a free sampler from Solid State Records. Get two albums for nothing but a Facebook "Like".

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

5.5.2011 - 7vnSeal "Keep My Boots Madd Muddy" mixtape review

It's rare to find a hip hop artist that moved from secular work to what 7vnSeal calls "Ministerial Music" and keep it so raw, yet so anointed at the same time. Truly amazing. His new mixtape "Keep My Boots Madd Muddy" includes 24 tracks featuring a large cast of artists including Gifted Da Flamethrowa, Young Mercy, John Bennard, Dirt, Theory Hazit, Sincon, Braille, James H., Alkatraz, Willie Will, Cy, and Applejaxx. 7vnSeal, previously known as 80proof brought the style that he developed while working with some of the Wu Tang Affiliates to his new "Ministerial Music". Throughout this project, any Wu fan can appreciate his militant style of delivery and sharp razor like lyrical flow, giving Christians and non Christians alike a reason to listen. One thing that is definitely prevalent and remains the most important throughout this mixtape is the commitment that 7vnSeal has given to his new found Faith and to this project by bringing a cast of artists that share the same devotion to the Lord. So let's get into it…..

After listening to the mixtape several times through, I have decided not to break down every track, but shorten the list to 13 tracks in order to leave you wanting more. If you want to know about the other 11 tracks, make sure you get the download.

The album drops with "Till The End" featuring Young Mercy, a raw, militant track that showcases 7vnSeals lyrical and well sharpened style. Young Mercy takes verse number two with a smooth style of his own.

"X2" is the second track on the album, featuring Gifted Da Flamethrowa. 7vnSeal hits the listener hard on this one with a special anointing that I could feel as I was listening to this track. Gifted follows up with a deep verse giving praises to the Lord on this one.

Continue Reading.....

5.4.2011 - Jahaziel "Still Livin" mixtape review

MOBO Award Winning Gospel artist Jahaziel gears up his musical career in 2011 with one of the most anticipated projects this year.

Jahaziel has been hard at work to bring us the project entitled ‘Still Livin’. This is none other than a bold statement by one of the most successful UK Gospel artists’ to let the world know...”I’m still here! Having been through the fire, I’m still here doing what the Lord has called me to do”

The FREE Mixtape which is available for download at www.jahazielmusic.com consists of 18 tracks and features many talented UK and US artists such as Guvna B, Mali Music, Da’ T.R.U.T.H & Ambassador and ForeRunnaz and many more.

The single I'm Alive drops May 17th with a music video and remix from a host of artists.

Jahaziel heats up his steadily expanding musical career with this free mixtape in preparation for his sophomore album set to be released Summer 2011.

‘The Still Livin Mixtape’ OUT NOW! Download from www.forerunnaz.com | www.jahazielmusic.com.

Connect with Jahaziel:

Twitter: twitter.com/jahazielmusic

Twitter Trend: #StillLivin

Facebook: facebook.com/jahazielmusic

Website: www.jahazielmusic.com

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

4.27.2011 - Five16 Magazine Prepares An Aggressive Ad Campaign For 2011

Greensburg, PA — April 27, 2011 — In an effort to grow their reader base, Five16 Magazine has decided to prepare a more aggressive ad campaign for 2011 to increase their reader base and add to their already growing subscriber list. Five16 Magazine is a Christ driven magazine that covers positive actions sports and music. Since 2009, Five16 Magazine and Five16.com has been covering positive interviews and inspirational stories from the front lines of Christian Hip Hop, Alternative, and Punk music as well as action sports worldwide. According to Chad Armel, Executive Editor and founder of Five16 Magazine, "We have spent the past two years building an incredible website, adding content, and getting a nice list of quality back issues of the magazine to give our visitors reason to come back. Now that we feel we have enough content to keep new visitors interested in returning, we believe it is time to put together a marketing campaign to grow our visitor and reader base." The current marketing campaign includes social media, online video, cross promotions, media partnerships, and email. Five16 media partnerships have not been limited to Christian based organizations alone, but must present the reader with positive content. This was an intentional decision to present Christian and positive views to the world in a way that everyone can relate to.

4.24.2011 - 7vnseal a.k.a. God’s Dagger/Robert Encinas

7vnseal a.k.a. God’s Dagger/Robert Encinas has lived life on the edge most of his life coming out of a family being taught hate, mental, and physical abuse it’s no wonder that he turned to gang-affiliations. At the age of sixteen he began rapping at house party locations as well as doing live rap battles on the radio. In 2006 he was rapping under the former name,80proof linking up with Beretta 9 and Dom Pachino of the Wu-Tang affiliated group, “Killarmy.” In 2007 he worked on a single with world famous, Shyheim the Manchild of Wu-Tang Killa Bees. After being signed with CCR/Universal Management things were progressing to the point of being on the road full-time and growing towards “superstar status” when a sudden turn of events happened, on March 16th 2009 80proofwas called by God to walk out of the life he had been living and gave him a new name, 7vnseal a.k.a. God’s Dagger. Now residing in San Antonio, Texas 7vnseal has been growing as a believer in Christ through the ministry at Victory Gospel Chapel. 7vnseal is preparing to release the new mixtape which will be dropping on May 10th , 7vnseal Presents: ”Keep My Boots Madd Muddy: Platoon Vol. 1: Hosted by DJ Wade-O and featuring guest artists Sivion(Deep Space 5), Theory Hazit, Braille, Sincon, Alkatraz, Dirt, Applejaxx, Gifted Da Flamethrowa, Willie Will, Cy, Young Mercy, and more!

Continue Reading.....

4.12.2011 - Gifted inks a with iMG Recordings/Universal Distributions

Houston, Texas, April 4, 2011- National Recording Artist Gifted Da Flamethrowa has made a new move on the chess board of the music industry by signing a Major Promotion & Distribution deal with iMG/Universal. The first record to be released will be “BullDoze City” Releasing Summer of 2011.

Gifted has been on a musical tirade since his Much Luvv Records/ Infinity release “Street Symphony” in the 4th quarter of 09’. Directly on the heels of Street Symphony, Gifted started a Mix Tape series titled “Monsters Do Exist”. From March of 2010 Gifted released a record setting NINE FREE Tapes, garnering over 11,000 downloads to date, all featuring different DJ’s. Gifted also traveled to Sao Paula, Brazil, on a mission trip with label mates Tre9 and VonWon on the Hip Hop Hope Missions tour. Read more.....

4.11.2011 - 7vnSeal "Keep My Boots Madd Muddy" mixtape review coming soon!!!!!

Five16 Magazine has some great exclusive content coming on 7vnSeal including a review on his upcoming mixtape "Keep My Boots Madd Muddy", an exclusive interview, and news on his plans for the next couple years as the new lyrical general for the Lord.

We recently received an official leak of the mix tape from the man himself, and can't wait till the final version hosted by DJ Wade-O is released. The mixtape is scheduled to drop in late April and features a strong lyrical cast including Svion, Theory Hazit, Braille, Sincon, Alkatraz, Dirt, Applejaxx, Gifted Da Flamethrowa, CY, and Young Mercy.

4.10.2011 - Five16 Launches new online store front

For Immediate Release: Five16 Magazine launches new Online Store

3.27.2011 - 7vnSeal Mixtape Coming Soon!

We got the official leak from the man himself, and this mixtape is fiya. New 7vnSeal Mixtape review coming soon in Five16 Magazine. Keep posted for updates.

2.15.2011 - Five16 is an official sponsor of the "God Is Love Concert Series"

Five16 Magazine is an official sponsor of the "God Is Love Concert Series" scheduled for Friday February 25th at 5:30 PM. The doors open at 5:00 and the cover is $7.00 at the door.

2.1.2011 - Collectors Edition Now Available

For immideate release: The Special Collectors Edition of Five16 Magazine featuring the exclusive and in depth interview with ATL Recording Artist "Crucifix" is now available for purchase at Magcloud.com

1.2.2011 - The "Special Two Year Anniversary Issue" has been released!

We are pleased to announce the release of the "Special 2 Year Anniversary Issue" of Five16 Magazine, featuring an exclusive in depth interview with Genocide Survivor, Ex Gang Member, and Hip Hop Artist Crucifix. This highly anticipated interview will be sure to motivate and inspire you as he speaks of his life struggles, trials, and ever growing Faith.

11.7.10 - Five16 Clothing & Gear Now Available!

We have been hard at work this year, building on the Five16 Focus and brand. I am happy to announce that the Five16 Clothing and Gear are now available at www.five16.com/gear.html

If you grab some gear, be sure to send pics of you repping Five16 to editor@five16.com for a chance be included in a future issue of the magazine.

2.28.10 - Issue #7 Released Today

Issue #7 is complete. This month, we feature Parkour For Jesus representing the U.K. parkour scene. The Music Notes section features The Kings Kids, a punk band out of Salinas California. We also bring you our first Unsigned Hype athlete and an inspirational story of skating ministry in Guatemala.

1.17.10 - The next issue will be released in February

We are now settled into 2010 and the first issue of the new year is scheduled to be released in the last week of February. The next issue will include an interview with Jud Heald of Untitled Skateboards and an article on the Parkour For Jesus team.

10.16.09 - New website design released!

Check out the release of the new Five16 website design. Keep posted for upcoming additions as Five16 continues to grow.

10.5.09 - Five16 becomes 1 in 3 Trinity Affiliate

Five16 has worked out a deal and has become an affiliate for 1 in 3 Trinity Energy Drink. We will be including the 1 in 3 Energy Drink along with the Five16 Clothing Merchandise at future event booths.

8.30.09 - Issue #4 Released Today

Issue #4 is complete. This issue includes an interview with U.S. Paintball League General Manager Camille Lemanski, a testimonial article by motocross rider Jesse Casillas, and DC Hip Hop artist CL talks about his new album.

7.13.09 - Prayer list added

We have added a prayer list at Five16.com. Please visit the prayer list and consider adding it to your daily prayers. If you need to be added to the prayer list, please send an email to prayer@five16.com.

6.21.09 - Issue #3 Released Today

Issue #3 is complete. This issue, we sit down to talk to Pro-Paintballer Thomas Taylor. We also take a look at Season #1 of the Steel Roots new television series The Uprising.

6.11.09 - Special Prayer Request

Recently Andy Finch contacted us with a special prayer request. As you may or may not know, the Finch family have been through some great trials and tribulations the past two years that led to Andy's father being in the hospital and now in court. Andy asks for your thoughts and prayers through the remainder of the events that will unfold. He wishes for "Gods Will To Be Done", and your prayers are extremely important to Andy, his father, and the rest of his family. God Bless.....

5.12.09 - Issue #3 June Release

We are currently working on Issue #3, due to be released in June. We have a great lineup of upcoming Pro Interviews, starting with this next issue. We will also be taking a look at the U.S. Paintball League and are working on some special things with the USPL. Be sure to sign up for your Free digital subscription to keep up with all the news and issue releases.

5.7.09 - Special Prayer Request

This morning, we had received a special prayer request from a great friend and supporter of Five16 Magazine. He and his family need your prayers. God knows the names and the situation. If you wish to do so, we ask you to add them to your prayer list.

Thank you and God Bless,

Five16.com

5.1.09 - Issue #2 Released Today

Issue number two is complete. Check out our interview with the 2008 MMA King of Fury Champion Chris Clodfelter. We also talk to one of his sponsors, IGH Clothing.

4.24.2011 - 7vnseal a.k.a. God’s Dagger/Robert Encinas