John Schlitt, lead singer of Petra, and Billy Smiley, guitarist, singer, and founding member of Whiteheart, are excited to announce a new album and worldwide tour for 2016. Targeting main stages of festivals, theme parks, fairs, and special events, the guys have put together an album and historical show with some of the most memorable songs from both groups as well as introducing some dramatic new compositions.
The Union of Sinners and Saints will feature members from 2 of the best selling Christian Rock Bands of all time. Selling over 12 million records between them, more than 25, #1 songs, and over 15 Grammy and 40 Dove nominations and awards, they will perform many #1 songs like “Beyond Belief”, “Independence Day”, “The Coloring Song”, “The River Will Flow”, “Hit You Where You Live”, “Desert Rose”, and a special Foo Fighters cover.
This smashup now results in the release of a new CD available exclusively at Lifeway Stores in June 2016 and digitally on iTunes worldwide. The project of eight new originals, and updated versions of Petra and Whiteheart classics will be a must for fans of both groups. John Ellis, lead singer from ‘Tree 63’, will be featured on guitar and vocals. New artist Jason Fowler, whom Smiley produced, will also join guys on the road.
Schlitt says, “The idea of a new project really intrigued both of us. With our histories, it only made sense to feature the favorites of Petra and Whiteheart along with some of the new songs we were writing in the studio.” Thus, the name The Union of Sinners and Saints (U.S.S.)
Smiley adds, “John and I got together last fall, started writing some songs and discussed both of our histories and journeys. After seeing the chemistry and friendship that developed, we were excited with the new material, and started brainstorming about taking this smashup out on the road this year.”
While writing these songs, Schlitt said, “We realized we had a lot of new ideas swirling around in our heads that we wanted to share, both musically and lyrically; songs that were on our hearts and minds, yet we also wanted to celebrate with all of our friends and fans some of the memorable songs, moments, and performances that they have been a part of over the years.”
They both are in agreement, “We are anxious to do a rock event that is powerful and moving, one that long-time fans would appreciate and love enough to introduce and bring their kids to. The album and live events will incorporate the kind of artistry and ministry that will remind them of the early years of Christian Rock, but also usher in a new energy and excitement.”
The Union:
John Schlitt - lead vocals - Petra
Billy Smiley – guitar, keyboards, and vocals - Whiteheart
Anthony Sallee – bass - Whiteheart
John Ellis – Tree 63
featuring new artist Jason Fowler – guitar and vocals
Rise Up
The Union of Sinners and Saints Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
As we rise up to a brand new day
I can see clearly there is hope, there is hope
It's been a mystery to me
Where I am and where I'll be
The day you opened up my eyes, I'm alive
Ah, oh let the journey begin
Ooh, rise up and rise up again
Ah, it's time to let the love in
I've been calling you in life
To fill this empty space inside
You are the way, the truth, the life
Bringing me to my father
You're everything I need
To fill me up and make me see
The day you opened up my eyes, to shine
Ooh, rise up and rise up again
Ah, oh let the journey begin
Ooh, rise up and rise up again
Ah, it's time to let the love in
One, one
We can be one together, forever
One, one
We can be one together, forever
Ooh, Rise up and rise up again
Ah, oh let the journey begin
Ooh, rise up and rise up again
Ah, It's time to let the love in
Oh let the journey begin
Oh let the journey begin
The song "Rise Up" by The Union of Sinners and Saints is a powerful anthem about finding hope and purpose in life. The lyrics speak of a person who has been searching for meaning and clarity in their life, and has finally found it through faith. The song’s upbeat melody adds to the sense of triumph and hope that permeates the lyrics.
The opening lines of the song call for the light to shine on the singer's face as they rise up to a brand new day. This represents a new beginning, a fresh start in life that brings with it a newfound sense of hope and optimism. The singer acknowledges the mystery that has surrounded their life up to this point, but is now filled with a sense of purpose and direction thanks to their newfound faith.
The chorus of the song is a rallying cry, urging the listener to rise up and begin their own journey towards a brighter future. The repeated refrain of "let the journey begin" serves to inspire the listener and give them the courage to take the first step. The song ends with a call for unity, reminding the listener that they are not alone on this journey and that together, we can rise up and overcome any challenge.
Line by Line Meaning
Let the light shine on my face
I'm ready for a new day and a new beginning, and I want to be in the spotlight.
As we rise up to a brand new day
We are taking advantage of this new day to start again and make positive changes in our lives.
I can see clearly there is hope, there is hope
I've faced a lot of difficulties, but I'm realizing that there is still hope for me and for the future.
It's been a mystery to me
My life has been confusing and uncertain to me in the past.
Where I am and where I'll be
I've been lost and unsure of my purpose and future.
The day you opened up my eyes, I'm alive
Meeting someone special or having an epiphany has breathed life into me and given me a new outlook on life.
Ooh, rise up and rise up again
We are determined to keep pushing forward and rising above our struggles.
Ah, oh let the journey begin
We are excited to start a new journey and see where it takes us.
It's time to let the love in
We've been closed off and guarded, but now is the time to open ourselves up and let love in.
I've been calling you in life
I've been searching for someone or something to fill the void in my life.
To fill this empty space inside
There has been a missing piece in my life that I'm hoping to find and fill.
You are the way, the truth, the life
You are the answer I've been searching for, the guide to lead me out of my turmoil and towards enlightenment.
Bringing me to my father
By following you, I will be closer to my faith and my spiritual beliefs.
You're everything I need
I've found everything I need in you, whether it's comfort, guidance, or love.
To fill me up and make me see
You've completed me and opened my eyes to things I never saw before.
One, one
Together, we are united and stronger as one.
We can be one together, forever
We will support each other and stand united forever.
Oh let the journey begin
We're ready to embark on this journey, side by side.
Lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: Billy Smiley, Jason Fowler
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Karen Chavez
¡ Qué bueno oír de nuevo a John ! Y hermosa la canción. Muchísimas bendiciones y éxitos en Cristo.
Antiguo Poder
Super. Gracias por seguir haciendo esta musica
Brian Taylor
I LOVE YOU JOHN! GOD BLESS!!
Karen S. Jones 144
SING IT BROTHER JOHN !!!
pzd pzd
Love that PETRA voice!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Darren Z
John Schlitt is a grandpa, but the dude can still rock it. Keep it up, Johnny!
JCFan
Still one of the best rock voices of all time, Christian or otherwise.
BassistGuy
Absolutely awesome song!!
Ale Vile
Great sound!
GooserolesGo !
THANKS for blessing us with all your dedication and hard work over the years!! Your music is a treasure to the soul! GOD BLESS YOU!!