Detroit-based rock band Sweet Crystal, known for their longevity and consistent presence in the inspirational rock music scene, has announced the release of their newest single, This Way Forever (Pearl Sound Remix). The track, which officially debuted on May 1, 2025, across major streaming platforms, marks the second release from their anticipated upcoming album titled 8.
With a career that spans over five decades, Sweet Crystal has secured 26 Detroit Music Awards and continues to affirm their influence through both musical craftsmanship and meaningful themes. The band’s latest release is a refreshed take on a previously issued song, this time presented as a remix in collaboration with renowned mixer and engineer Chuck Alkazian. Alkazian, who has worked with industry names including Christina Aguilera, Mitch Ryder, and Pop Evil, helped sculpt the new version at Pearl Sound Studios and Nightcrier Studios.
Lead vocalist, keyboardist, and principal songwriter MarQ Andrew Speck—often referred to by his stage moniker “Q”—offered context for the timing and theme of the release. “This song is a re-imagining of the story of the Prodigal Son in the Bible but from the prodigal’s point of view. It seems to us that it’s just too easy these days to walk away from a situation, a person, even from God, without realizing the consequences of that action until later down the road,” said Q.
Staying true to their signature sound, This Way Forever (Pearl Sound Remix) features the distinctive guitar and keyboard arrangements that longtime listeners have come to expect from Sweet Crystal. Beyond musical technique, the band’s intention remains centered around delivering messages of hope, introspection, and emotional restoration.
The release follows Whatever Is Needed, Whatever It Takes, which debuted the previous year and set the stage for their upcoming full-length album 8. The new record is expected to encapsulate both the evolution of their sound and the consistency of their message, which has been a cornerstone of their identity since the band’s inception.
In 2024, Sweet Crystal commemorated a major milestone: their 50th year as a performing and recording group. Described internally as their “Golden Jubilee Celebration Year,” this landmark anniversary reinforces their status as one of the enduring acts within the spiritual and inspirational rock genre. “2024 marked our ‘Golden Jubilee Celebration Year’ as the band celebrated 50 years together,” Q added. “Not a whole lot of groups can claim five decades of the music, message, mission and ministry that defines us… and for that we are truly humbled, grateful and blessed.”
Sweet Crystal’s mission, often encapsulated in their slogan “Reaching The World, One Song At A Time™,” reflects their longstanding commitment to creating music with purpose. As the band continues to prepare for the full release of 8, the remix single serves as a bridge between their historical roots and future aspirations.
More information about Sweet Crystal, their music catalog, and upcoming performances is available through their official online platforms, including their website, Facebook, SoundCloud, ReverbNation, YouTube, and Twitter.
