Scott Stapp, P.O.D., Lauryn Hill, Kirk Franklin for new Passion Of The Christ CD.

ARTISTS inspired by Mel Gibson's film The Passion Of The Christ have banded together for a new album, 'Passion Of The Christ: Songs'. The album features newly recorded original songs sparked by the experience of seeing the film and features the diverse line up which includes tracks by former Creed singer Scott Stapp Lauryn Hill P.O.D. Kirk Franklin featuring Yolanda Adams Brad Paisley & Sara Evans Third Day, Steven Curtis Chapman, Mercy Me MxPx featuring Mark Hoppus Charlotte Church Big Dismal and others. The Stapp contribution is the album's lead single and marks his debut as a solo artist. The collection will also serve as the inaugural release for Lost Keyword Records, an imprint which will be marketed and promoted by Windup Records.

Scott Stapp, who contributed his song "Relearn Love", said, "Mel Gibson again shows his genius as an artist and director. His passion for this film is obvious from beginning to end. He took on a very controversial historical event and, in my humble opinion, displayed it with extraordinary artistry. All of us who have different faiths could use some tolerance for one another. This film depicts a timeless story of betrayal, forgiveness and eternal atonement. I am blessed to have the opportunity to contribute 'Relearn Love' to this project."

P.O.D. lead singer Sonny Sandoval said of the two-hour film, "This is the real deal - brutal, honest, touching." The San Diego band wrote and recorded their contribution "Truly Amazing" after a showing at Gibson's offices in November. "This film made me check my own heart and my own faith," Sandoval continued. "It's not the fairy tale story of Christ we're all used to hearing. So, even before anybody wanted to be involved, in the heat of the controversy, I wanted to give back and contribute to this. The only way for us to truly give back and raise awareness is through our music." Lauryn Hill offered, "The film was a visual representation of what life is supposed to be for the people of God - a sinless man willingly gae himself up so that others might be saved. I was inspired by the film and proud to contribute a song to this collection." CR

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