Newsboys

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History

The Newsboys formed in Australia during the late 80's releasing their first album in 1988. John James as lead vocalist and Peter Furler on drums remained the backbone of the lineup through 1996's Take Me To Your Leader. Peter not only grew into an excellent songwriter over the years but also began to take on more vocal duties as the albums progressed.

The addition of Steve Taylor as both producer and co-writer beginning with Not Ashamed gave the band a more mature and edgier sound. In conjunction with Take me to Your Leader. Taylor worked with the band to create the campy comedy-musical film "Down Under the Big-Top" which released to video in 1996. Although not the highest quality film, it provides an interesting glimpse into the personality of the band and touches on the theme of the Prodigal Son. The film also includes brief cameo's of Christian recording artists Gary Chapman and Mark Lowry as well as Steve Taylor.

After Take Me To Your Leader John James stepped down from the Newsboys and from public life due to personal issues. This left the leadership of the Newsboys in Peter Furler's capable hands.

The lineup from "Take Me To Your Leader" apart from John James stabilized on Peter Furler, Jeff Frankenstein, Duncan Phillips, Jody Davis and Phil Joel. This lineup remained constant through the recording of 2003's Adoration: The Worship Album.

With the release of 2003's "Adoration" the focus for the band changed. A more direct worshipful sound emerged on both "Adoration" and 2004's "Devotion." Bryan Oleson of Casting Pearls / VOTA replaced Jody Davis on guitar during this period.

Paul Colman left solo recording to replace Bryan Oleson in the ever changing role of lead guitar as the band returned to an electro-pop sound with the release of 2006's "Go."

Jody Davis returns to the band with the release of 2009's "In the Hands of God" after a five year hiatus to care for his daughter. Jody replaces Paul Colman who has chosen to return to solo redcording.

As of March of 2009, it has been announced that Peter Furler will no longer tour regularly but will remain involved in the Newsboys future through songwriting, production and occasional live appearances.

Peter's lead vocals will be replaced on the current tour and apparently on future albums by Michael Tait(formerly of DC Talk).