NASHVILLE, Tenn.—Putting his signature folk/rock spin on a beloved Christmas carol, award-winning singer/songwriter Justin Gambino is poised to celebrate the season with a fresh arrangement of “Joy to the World,” now available on streaming platforms. Featuring an infectious new chorus, the track was helmed by Walter Halliwell, Gambino’s longtime collaborator and the producer of his critically acclaimed 2023 full-length set, Made New. “Recently, while I was on the road at a church in Colorado, the pastor shared how ‘Joy to the World’ was written by Isaac Watts in 1719 with Christ’s Second Coming in mind,” explains Gambino. “I thought that was incredible, and after doing a little more research, I found that Watts was inspired by Psalm 98, which says in verse four, ‘Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises!’ So not only is ‘Joy to the World’ a personal favorite, but after learning about its inspiration I realized it was not a coincidence that the Lord was leading me to record and release my own version of it.”
“While there is much to distract us and pull us away from God in the times that we are in right now, I think it is imperative for followers of Christ to do His work here on earth while we have breath in our lungs,” Gambino adds. “Let us love well and always be watchful, for that day of His return, when He will be riding on the clouds, is coming soon.”
“Joy to the World” arrives on the heels of a banner year for Gambino, who was recently named Artist of the Year Christian/Gospel/Inspirational Male at the 10th Annual Josie Music Awards, the largest independent music awards show in the world. In addition, he will be presenting the 5th Annual Brazoria County Revival on December 14. A night of worship and testimony designed to bring hope and encouragement to his hometown, Gambino hosts the yearly event on the steps of the Brazoria County Courthouse in Angleton, Texas.
ABOUT JUSTIN GAMBINO
Since 2015, acclaimed Texas-based singer/songwriter Justin Gambino has been developing an enthusiastic following across the United States and around the world with his charismatic live performances and hope-filled anthems. With an EP, two full-length recordings and numerous cinematic music videos to his credit, Gambino’s signature songs include “Courage,” “Fighting On My Behalf,” “Your Hands & Feet,” and “Anchored.” He’s performed at festivals, churches, camps and other venues, opening for such genre leaders as TobyMac, for KING + COUNTRY, Crowder, Casting Crowns, Skillet and Switchfoot.
Gambino’s testimony is a consistent theme in his music and ministry. A rebellious teen, he was arrested for theft at the age of 18. Opting for military enlistment and community service in lieu of incarceration, he spent eight years in the US Navy. While serving in Iraq, Gambino was asked to lead worship on base, rekindling a love for music he first embraced as a child. Battling PTSD and anger issues following his military service, Gambino turned to alcohol and spiraled into depression and despair. One night, on the floor of his apartment, he cried out to God for help and a new journey of redemption, hope and purpose began. Coming full circle, Gambino now holds the Brazoria County Revival each year on the steps of the Texas courthouse where he was sentenced as a teen.
For further information, visit justingambino.com or turningpointpr.com. Follow Gambino on Facebook and Instagram.