A successful collab between RI-AN and MADISON BINION. Tony Cummings reports.

Ri-an

Listeners have by now caught up with the song "OK With That". The artist credit on that single's undulating groove is Ri-An and Madison Binion, solo acts who have both been making steady progress on America's Christian music scene.

Ri-An was born Rhyan Shirley and is a BMI award-winning songwriter who has penned songs for Colton Dixon, Leeland, Rachael Lampa, We Are Messengers, Gateway Worship, Thrive Worship and many others. As well as writing songs for Integrity she has released any singles - 18 at the last count - and delights in being a member of her local church worship team, which she has served since relocating from Arkansas to Nashville. Talking to her many followers on a website Ri-An said, "If you're here I hope you either know Jesus or your curiosity has been sparked. This music is an invitation to the preachers, leaders, sceptics and cheaters. If you're human then there is a seat at the table for you. There is love to be found and grace and mercy beyond your wildest expectations."

In the past Ri-An has recorded collabs with Rachael Nemiroff, Tommy Iceland, Sebastian Corn, Rachael Lampa, Mitch Wong and Britain's Philippa Hanna. But it's her single with Madison Binion which is now connecting with Cross Rhythms listeners.

Madison is the daughter of Dallas-based worship leaders David and Nicole Binion. A precocious singing and songwriting talent while still at elementary school Madison caught the attention of Disney Channel music executives. As MDSN, she followed a career in teen pop before deciding that direction wasn't for her. Signing with Integrity Music, she has appeared on her parents' acclaimed album 'Dwell' and on the Hawk Nelson song "Right Here With You" while her own singles "Kerosene" and the ballad "Hunger" have gained her US radio attention. But its her collab with Ri-An which has been the best mix yet of the creative chemistry.