This DIRECTV musical event will take the audience on a journey, from beginning to end, through the story of Easter with performances from inspirational choirs across the country, as well as special appearances from modern-day Christian artists, including Grammy-award winners Kirk Franklin and Michael W. Smith, and Point of Grace and Rachel Lampa, who will share scripture and very special Easter memories.

The artists which are scheduled to present consist of the Brentwood Baptist Choir, Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, Chicago Mass Choir, Coral Ridge Choir, Crystal Cathedral, Kirk Franklin, McGregor Baptist Choir, Michael W. Smith, Nicole C. Mullen, The Potters House Mass Choir, Prestonwood Baptist Choir, St. Olaf College Choir and many more. Co-host Nicole C. Mullen noted, "As a recording artist and a subscriber to DIRECTV, I am doubly honored and excited to be a part of such a wonderful program. SONGS OF PRAISE is an excellent way for people to find and be reminded of the hope, joy and love that this Easter celebration brings."

"This is DIRECT TV's first foray into original religious programming and we look forward to providing even more content like this to our more than 15 million customers across the country" said David Hill, president, DIRECTV Entertainment. As the first in a series of original religious programming to come from DIRECT TV satellite TV, SONGS of PRAISE will premiere at 6 a.m. Eastern Time (3 a.m. Pacific Time) on DIRECTV channel 103 beginning on Friday, April 14, continuing with back to back airings throughout Easter Weekend. This Easter special is part of DIRECTV's original programming lineup, which also includes CD USA, an exclusive weekly music series that DIRECT TV launched in January. Customers subscribing to any DIRECT TV satellite TV TOTAL CHOICE® or SELECCION programming package will have access to SONGS OF PRAISE at no additional cost.