Shane Heilman, an independent artist renowned for his musical project The Psalms Project, has made a noteworthy transition in his career.
In 2021, he took a decisive step by resigning from his role as a high school principal, opting to fully immerse himself in the realms of music and coaching.
Adding to his accomplishments, Shane recently completed the Modern Musician Gold Artist Program, earning the prestigious title of Gold Artist of the Year. This recognition underscores his commitment to musical excellence and his significant contributions to the industry through The Psalms.
This complete dedication to The Psalms Project, initially a modest church initiative, has materialised over 12 years, resulting in the creation of seven albums, widespread CD and album downloads, and millions of global streams.
Far from a solo venture, it has now blossomed into a collaborative effort, engaging over 85 musicians, including notable Grammy nominees like Phil Keaggy and Jeff Deyo. The project’s unique approach, treating each Psalm as a distinct narrative, has garnered international acclaim for its innovative music production.
“It all came from wanting people to experience the Psalms emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually, and using music as a tool for that … I wanted to simply let the Word of God speak, and to put the most powerful music and vocalists that I could behind His words.”
With the release of “Volume 6: Psalms 47-55,” The Psalms Project embarks on a new chapter, featuring an external team of producers. This album introduces a modern pop sheen, marking a sophisticated and contemporary evolution in the project’s musical trajectory.
Standout tracks include “Psalm 47 (Shout to God),” a jubilant rock anthem, “Psalm 51 (Cleanse Me From My Sin),” a soulful ballad, and “Psalm 54 (Your Name Is Good),” an alt-pop gem, showcase the diverse musical landscape of this project.
The Psalms Project is a unique musical endeavor with a twofold mission: to skilfully set all 150 Psalms to music, ensuring accuracy, cultural relevance, and musical excellence, while also using the generated profits to support global missions, specifically in the most impoverished and desperate regions.
In terms of its musical mission, the project aims to showcase the transformative power of singing Scriptures in various worship contexts, including praise, intercession, spiritual warfare, healing, lament, and prophecy. It emphasizes presenting the uncensored Psalms in their full emotional and theological depth, promoting Scriptural integrity in worship.
Additionally, the project seeks to elevate the poetic quality of worship music lyrics by capturing the profound excellence found in the Psalms, and it aspires to educate the body of Christ through the expressive medium of music.
On the global mission front, The Psalms Project operates as a non-profit organization, channeling all proceeds from music, concerts, and merchandise toward Christian mission efforts. The primary focus is on spreading the Gospel of forgiveness, healing, and deliverance through faith in Jesus Christ, particularly in regions facing extreme poverty and hopelessness.
The project’s inception dates back to a personal experience of setting Psalm 1 to music during a mission trip. Although progress was initially slow, the vision gained traction in 2009 when the founder committed to memorizing Psalms as a spiritual discipline. This deepened connection with the verses led to a renewed inspiration to set the Psalms to music. By the summer of 2009, Psalms 1-5 were successfully set to music, marking a significant milestone in the project’s development.
The inclusion of both local and non-local artists and musicians in the project reflects a vision of celebrating the diverse gifts of the Spirit and fostering unity among God’s people. Additionally, a substantial portion of the project’s profits is dedicated to supporting world missions, aligning with the vision of bringing justice to the vulnerable, as emphasized in many Psalms. The overarching goal is to spread the Gospel and contribute meaningfully to God’s mission.
The project extends an invitation for individuals to participate by either purchasing or promoting the music, recognizing that their involvement contributes to the project’s vision and mission. Even those not directly involved in the creative process are encouraged to be part of something larger than themselves.
As Shane continues his journey with The Psalms Project, his story stands as an inspiring tale of hope. Going beyond the mere endeavor of setting all 150 Psalms to music, it has evolved into a profound spiritual journey, offering hope and affirming God’s love to a far reaching, global audience.
Listen to Psalm 47 (Shout to God) now by pre-saving to your Spotify library. https://music.thepsalmsproject.com/psalm47shouttogod
Download Psalm 47 by pre-saving to your Apple Music library: https://music.thepsalmsproject.com/psalm47shou…/applemusic
Stay current with Shane Heilman and the Psalms Project on his Website, and social media channel Facebook.
Stream music on Spotify, YouTube and Apple Music.
