[WhiteRob]

Casting Crowns, the “fastest-selling new artist of 2003,” continues to see sales number climb with their eight month-old, self-titled debut album. Casting Crowns is holding strong in the top 3 on Nielson’s Top Christian Albums SoundScan chart behind both Third Day and Mercy Me’s newest releases, which have been out less than three weeks. In the short amount of time the album has been out, Casting Crowns has scanned close to 350,000 units and is quickly approaching gold status.

Casting Crowns is also continuing to heat up radio charts with “Who Am I” claiming three No. 1 positions this week. The song is currently No. 1 on Radio & Records Inspirational and Christian Adult Contemporary Indicator charts as well as Christian Radio Weekly’s Inspirational chart.

Amidst a hectic touring schedule the band recently participated in the National Day of Prayer in Daytona, Fla. at the International Speedway. The band performed “Who Am I,” “If We Are The Body” and “Glory” before a crowd of almost 10,000 people. Also in attendance were B-Rite Recording artist RJ Helton and Don Evans, Secretary of Commerce. The Nationally Broadcast Concert of Prayer is a first of its kind live prayer meeting; a three-hour, prime time television, radio and Internet simulcast that aired May 6. The prayer concert culminates the National Day of Prayer.

Mark Hall notes on participating in the event, “Being a small part of the National Day of Prayer was an incredible experience. Being linked with believers all over the world with a united passion and purpose was a definite mountain top for us and it’s our prayer that this one day event would rekindle a daily concert of prayer in homes around the world. Then, we will see God change the nations.”

Scott Smith, music director for WPOZ/Orlando, notes, “This year’s National Day Of Prayer event was outstanding at the Daytona International Speedway. Almost 10,000 people turned out to pray and worship with Casting Crowns and other artists like RJ Helton. Having two very talented acts use their talents to lead us into worship around the world was an unbelievable blessing and an inspiration to millions of people who were inspired to ask for God’s help.”