Grammy-winning gospel performer Jason Crabb set for Columbus concert

Globetrotting Grammy-winning gospel singer Jason Crabb aims for Christians to learn to awaken to what he sees as one huge element of God’s love. And that is embodied in his latest single that is the name of his current tour coming to East Columbus Christian Church April 27: “Good Morning Mercy.”

He explained in a recent interview on his website at jasoncrabb.com.

“I recently conducted a study reporting that people are living with more pressure in their daily lives than ever — feeling pressure from others and from things they brought on themselves,” Crabb said.

”When we went in to write this song, we wanted to remind people that God’s got you in all of that. He promises in His word that He will give new mercies every morning. I love the opening line, ‘While I was sleeping, Lord you were working, on the mess I made like only I can do.’ I mean, who hasn’t been there? We all have.

“And, we wanted the song to be fun and joyous, to encourage. It’s definitely a song you can start your day singing, (with the lyrics) ‘You woke me up, put me on my way. Hallelujah, it’s a brand new day! Good morning mercy!’ I know this song is going to bring you joy.”

Co-writer Jay DeMarcus sees the tune as a perfect fit for the artist whose style sounds part country, part pop, and one who has featured the talents of members of Rascal Flatts on his discs.

“One of the hallmark’s of Jason Crabb’s career has been singing songs and ministering words of hope,” DeMarcus said. “This song aligns perfectly with what Jason feels his call from God is. Sonically, this song is a powerhouse anthem, that perfectly showcases Jason’s amazing vocal prowess.”

Ron Bridgewater, a Christian artist in his own right who pastors East Columbus Christian and one who has brought in other artists such as Kathy Troccoli, sees the bluesy Crabb as a performer “with a toe in each” segment of traditional gospel, plus country and pop.

“He’s starting to be a little more in that Zach Williams/Annie Wilson kind of vein,” Bridgewater said of newer artists blending various styles into their tunes. “And this just seemed like a good opportunity to have the church community come together to have a good night of worship.

“Like we’ve already said, he’s one of those people who can attract the southern gospel crowd and the contemporary Christian music crowd. And that’s what we already have in our service here — a blended service. And I’ve always liked the events that are multi-generational. He definitely hits that niche.”

Bridgewater mentioned that if the 400-person capacity of the church fills, the concert will be moved to the 600-seat gym.

“But I wouldn’t wait on tickets,” he said.

In the future, Bridgewater said he ideally would like to bring in Christian artists such as David Phelps, a vocalist who appeared several years ago at Community Church of Columbus.

About the concert

Who: Gospel singer Jason Crabb amid his “Good Morning Mercy” tour.

When: 6 p.m. April 27.

Where: East Columbus Christian Church, 3170 Indiana Ave.

Information and tickets: jasoncrabb.com and at the church office.