the PRAYZE report

A Special Note from the Editor

2010-01-07T11:05:00.000-08:00

It is offical. And it's been fun.

Since 2004, Blogger has been a wonderful location for me to blog my thoughts, posts the lates news and deliver some incredible commentary. I've especially enjoyed the interactivity my followers have had with my posts and with other bloggers' thoughts.

But it's time to move on to newer horizons. Closing this chapter here isn't terrible news for me since we have opened up MainIngredient; the new blog associated with PRAYZEHYMN Online.com and MainStreet. The coverage there won't be so narrow since we have adopted a new philosophy to cover everything good in pop culture. Covering only gospel music led me to become pigeonholed into a specific genre and conversation topic; grouped in with conservative, Christian-related bloggers. Being boxed in to a specific format like that wasn't always enjoyable for me since I am a liberal guy who loves pop culture and also grew up on a beautiful variety of music choices.

And so, I am signing off on the PRAYZE Report. If you are looking for exclusive details and information related specifically related to gospel music, I urge you guys to check out the following blogs.

GospelPundit.com
The Black Gospel Blog
1800Gospel.com

PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com will continue to cover gospel music, just not as much. It will begin template renovations beginning this month and will reshape its focus of coverage on other music styles and genres including rock, pop and R&B/soul. Notice we even changed our motto. It's not just "where gospel music lives." It's "where good music lives." I'm on a mission to keep good music out there.

Expect MainStreet to cover the pop culture-related stuff while PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com will cover a broader range of topics and material - including extensive commentary pieces, articles and even more interviews.

By the way, I will begin posting a series of personal blogs detailing the reasons of my shift from gospel music. And I promise you it's going to be worth reading. It will cause you re-think the music you buy and quickly label "anointed", trust me. First post goes up next week. So be there for that.

Major kudos go out to Rod McCullom at Rod 2.0. You were the inspiration behind me launching this blog. Thanks for leading me to make this choice and to enter into the world of blogging.

Brian Moore Arrested

2009-12-14T22:42:00.000-08:00

Probably not expected to hit the fan at Gospelflava.com or GospelCity.com, but it's worth every inch of space here at the PRAYZE Report (soon to be merged with our new MainIngredient blog).

Brian Moore, pastor of Life Center Ministries and developer of a number of satellite churches in both Carolinas, was arrested December 10 for felony possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was released on bond totalling $3,250 dollars. His arrest information has now been made public; courtesy of the Office of the Sheriff, Mecklenberg County, North Carolina.

Melvin Crispell, renowned musician and songwriter for James Hall and Hezekiah Walker, is the church's minister of music.

Don't get mad at the law. They were only just doing their job. Instead, let's get mad at the church for thinking they were above the law.

To see the public records regarding Moore's arrest and charges, click here.

MAIN STREET Launches, Possible Move

2009-12-09T11:40:00.000-08:00

This is a new day.

PRAYZEHYMN Online.com, the parent company of the PRAYZE Report, announced its latest adventure into mainstream coverage including popular album releases, film, DVD releases, TV and much more. The new direction also includes a Facebook-supported networking group and a new blog called MAIN INGREDIENT.

The launch site of MAIN STREET (http://www.prayzehymnonline.com/mainstreet) included reviews of the films New Moon: the Twilight Saga and Precious, along with album reviews of Melaine Fiona, Brian McKnight, Angie Stone, Rod Stewart and Marques Houston. It also includes a On-the-Go music station, poll section and a featured YouTube video.

"This is a blessing to us here at PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com. The PRAYZE Report has been a popular blog for gospel music listeners and we are happy about its success," expressed site developer and chief editor J. Matthew Cobb. "But we are pushing away from the Blogger-supported blog because we aren't aware of how large our traffic is. The new blog is linked to our site and will actually give us a better understanding of how vast our audience is. We believe the end results will be boundless."

In a press statement and article posted on MAIN STREET, Cobb explained the site's vision and new direction while also expressing his disenchantment towards the gospel music industry.

"Gospel music has been good to me," the 29-year old editor expressed. "I love the genre, but the industry needs to do better. It's still a small clique' that believes there's only one way to succeed and to do things. Unfortunately, I'm not a part of the fraternity. I'm glad I'm not."

Since the announcement of MAIN STREET, PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com promises to continue its coverage on gospel music.

An end-date for the PRAYZE Report is soon to be announced.

To visit MAIN STREET, go to:
http://www.prayzehymnonline.com/mainstreet

[MAIN STREET OPEN FOR BUSINESS]
Main Street (Official Web Site)
Main Street (Facebook)
Main Ingredient [Blog]

GRAMMY Nominations Are Out

2009-12-06T17:25:00.000-08:00

For the 52nd annual Grammy Awards, a good number of awards will be given to some of this year's favorite artists. This year was a tight but respectable year for good music, which is easily showcased in the list of nominees.

Leading the board of nominees included the triumphant Beyonce' with a resounding ten nominations. The Black Eyed Peas, Maxwell, Lady Gaga, Kanye West and Taylor Swift's Fearless received several nominations as well. Legendary soul vets including Stevie Wonder, for the Obama tribute "All About the Love Again" and Hall & Oates, for their performance of "Sara Smile" on the Live at the Troubadour DVD and album, were also recognized. Whitney Houston, who released her best-selling return album I Look to You, failed to impress the Academy and failed to earn a Grammy nod. Melanie Fiona, one of 2009's biggest debut artists, earned a nod for "It Kills Me" in the Best Female R&B Performance category.

All eyes will be glued to the coveted Song of the Year category as Lady Gaga's "Poker Face," Beyonce's "Single Ladies" and Maxwell's "Pretty Wings" face off.

In the gospel categories, Israel Houghton was nominated twice for Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album and for the song "Every Prayer" off of his Power of One album. Mary Mary, who also dueted with Houghton on "Every Prayer," walked away with a second nod for Best Gospel Song with their R&B crossover hit "God in Me." This year's most overlooked but industry beloved compilation, the Oh Happy Day soundtrack, received a few glances for Best Gospel Performance ("I Believe" by Jonny Lang & the Fisk Jubilee Singers), Best R&B Performance by Group/Duo with Vocals ("Higher Ground by Robert Randolph & the Clark Sisters) and for Best Traditional Album.

Heather Headley also got two Grammy nominations for Best Contemporary R&B Gospel and Best Gospel Performance for her rendition of "Jesus Is Love." J Moss, Matthew West, Sheri Jones-Moffett, tobyMac and Donald Lawrence also were nominated in the gospel categories.

On a side note, Tonex' registered a nod for Best Urban/Alternative Performance for the song "Blend." Tonex faces a strong set of neo-soul wonders including Bilal, the Foreign Exchange and Eric Roberson.

Gospel diva Ann Nesby even got her share of recognition for "Sow Love," off of her Lula Lee Project, in the category of Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance.

Mentioned earlier this year, the Best Performance by a Gospel Choir or Chorus category was removed from the ballot due to the lack of nominees and album submissions.

To read a full list of this year's set of nominees, click here.

More Backlash from the Stellars

2009-11-25T11:02:00.001-08:00

Released today, Central City Productions president Don Jackson issued an open letter in response to the growing concerns about its nomination process and its embattled issues of integrity.

In his letter, Jackson stated, "As a direct result of the constructive feedback of the Gospel Music Industry, from the sources I’ve identified above, I am pleased to inform you that for our 25th Anniversary Show we implemented several improvements to our Entry, Nominating and Balloting process that we feel strengthened our overall Voting process and made our procedure more open and inclusive, while continuing to maintain the integrity, fairness and highest standards of our overall process for everyone. "

Several minute changes included the elimination of the mail-in ballot, expanding the charting system to include all Nielsen BDS data which virtually allows all independents a right to a nomination and extended time record labels to submit their recommendations.

Strangely, all of these changes seem to have been made this year as evidence points that artists were added to the nomination lists days after the first round ballot surfaced. Previously, albums had to have visibility on the Billboard charts. Most of the independent artists nominated this year have not even charted on Billboard; which ultimately suggests that the new changes had to be activated prior to Jackson's recent announcement.

On the heels of the Stellar Awards' open letter to the public and gospel media, a letter from Stellar Awards Gospel Music Academy (SAGMA) president Henry Harris encouraged all of the Academy's members to vote for his online Radio Station and media resource, Spiritco1.com, for Best Online Radio Station - once again creating a cloud of criticism. The problem abounds in its conflict of interest. The email was sent to Harris's Facebook followers and to his mailing list. This year, Spiritco1, also an independent marketing firm, became embroiled in a massive pool of controversy due to its long list of customers making the Stellar Awards' ballot. Included in the drama, Harris also announced a 2-for-1 membership special to help encourage his supporters to buy more memberships to increase his artists' changes to make the final ballot.

An online petition, created by gospel blogger EJ Gaines, caused a stir three week ago asking the Stellars' to develop necessary corrections. Unfortunately, only 200 individuals have signed it.

The Stellar Gospel Music Awards, celebrating its 25th year anniversary, will take place at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN on January 16, 2010.

[STELLARS' BACKLASH CONTINUES]
Online Petition to SAGMA & CCP [PetitionSpot.com]

Stellar Award Nominees, Controversy [PRAYZE Report]
Stellar Mess [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]
Stellar Awards (Official Website)

Raw Video: Voices of Citadel

2009-11-23T09:58:00.000-08:00

About the only thing reconcilable about Voices of Citadel's latest album, Won't It Be Wonderful, is their revisit to Butch Heyward's '80s classic "Hallelujah to the Lamb." The song has that extra punch and energy very reminiscent of '90s contemporary gospel music via the Hezekiah Walker movement.

While it was posted back in 2008, the raw video taken at a James Hall's appreciation service may be the only video of VOC in action singing the song. Check it out and let me know what you think.

Temporarily, you can listen to the single at PRAYZEHYMN Online.com in the Nu Tunes section.

The album is digitally available at iTunes and eMusic.com.

[WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD]
Voices of Citadel - Won't It Be Wonderful [eMusic.com]
PRAYZEHYMN Online.com [Official website]

Gossip Leak: Tye Tribbett and Da' T.R.U.T.H.

2009-11-13T00:40:00.001-08:00

Got to call it what it is. It's gossip. But as they always say, there's always some truth in the tale.

Twitter posts and unauthorized gospel blogs went haywire this week concerning the moral discrepancies and recent fall outs concerning urban gospel/hip-hop rapper Da' T.R.U.T.H. and gospel star Tye Tribbett.

Both are now the subject of marital infidelity and moral indiscretion. For Da' T.R.U.T.H., the rapper publicly posted via his web site a letter to his fans that he will be taking a sabbatical from the music ministry and is need of time to heal for his wife and family.

But even more puzzling revelations are surfacing concerning a soap opera-tinged love triangle. According to gospel blog Da Gospel Truth, "Tye cheated on his wife with a choir member who was his good friend’s baby’s mother. Da’ T.R.U.T.H., Tye’s mentee, cheated with Tye’s wife."

According to reliable resources, Tye Tribbett nor his publicist will comment about the new revelations or his moral crisis.

In May, former label mate Ambassador was released from his record label, Cross Movement Records, concerning moral failure pertaining his wife.

After Da' T.R.U.T.H publicly announced his semi-retirement leaked, Cross Movement issued a public statement revealing their decision to drop him from the label. "It is with tremendous sadness and humble disappointment that Cross Movement Records must inform you regarding the suspension of the promotion and forwarding of the artist...Da Truth,...due to recent findings of moral failure in his marriage." stated the letter. "It is the expressed ambition and demonstrated intent of this label to foster Christian leadership that utilizes the platforms of an artist or musician. While obedience to the word of God is the high standard for all who name the name of Christ, for the Christian leader, the standards and the consequences are even greater.

No word has surfaced if Columbia or Sony Urban will decide to drop Tribbett from their roster concerning the newly released allegations.

In closing, for those that want to label this as just another sleazy, downgrading ploy designed by Satan. I leave you with these powerful words: "You shall know Da' T.R.U.T.H. And the truth shall set you free." Amen.

[PREACH THE GOSPEL, SPREAD THE GOSSIP]

Torrence's Take on Da T.R.U.T.H. [The Gospel According to Torrence/BET]

Love Triangle Takes On a Whole New Meaning [Da Gospel Truth]
Da' T.R.U.T.H. Takes Sabbatical for Moral Indiscretion [Gospel Pundit]

Official Web Site [DaTruth.net]

Donnie McClurkin Faces Tears, More Controversy

2009-11-12T23:26:00.001-08:00

In the charismatic climate of the Churches of God in Christ Holy Convocation, Pastor Donnie McClurkin once again addressed the cloudy and controversial nature of homosexuality - a subject that continues to give the popular gospel singer more and more media coverage. And things got even more graphic as he peculiarly opened the painful chapters of his past and his epiphanies concerning today's generation in front of thousands of youth and young adults at a youth service.

"I went to Mason's Temple and sat in the musicals." He then cried in displeasure, "No, no, no...Where are the fathers?"

An altar call towards deliverance, hearkened by McClurkin's anti-gay rants, opened the door for even more skepticism. Deliverance, a charming term used overtly and often times out of context, still worries theologians and modern Christians today. According to the "ex-gay" ministry Witness for the World's web site, they believe deliverance from homosexuality is a process. While the debate continues to loom with even larger interpretations in the church, homosexuality is widely encountered in the animal kingdom and is slowly pointing to its place of origin in the world of genetics. Ex-gay movements like Witness for the World still believe that a person can be delivered, or liberated totally, from homosexuality and lesbianism.

In the videos now streamed by thousands of visitors on YouTube, he openly addressed Tonex', the former gospel singer and urban R&B singer who spoke about his long-rumored sexuality. He even went on to compare homosexuals to the likes of vampires. Good gracious.

McClurkin recently spoke about his battle with homosexuality while also comparing his sexual urges to his medical diagnosis of diabetes. "I don't eat sugar, but it doesn't mean that I don't want sugar."

McClurkin also uttered with tears piercing his skin,"It's not the children's fault. We failed our boys...and girls. But today, Bishop Blake said this is the convocation of the turnaround. Today, the tables are about to turn and Satan is going to be destroyed over the lives of our young people."

So I guess in some supernatural way, since this is the year of the turnaround, gays and lesbians will cease to exist and less gays will congregate into the midnight musicals. Or maybe not.

In response to McClurkin's choice of words at the COGIC campmeeting, Yvette Flunder, pastor of City of Refuge Church and renowned gospel artist, stated in a Facebook journal entry:

"My deep concern is for those young people who are part of the COGIC and for their families who have now been driven deeper into the closet by experiences like this. The closet is a dangerous place, where theological, and physical self-abuse runs rampant."

Tell us about it, Yvette. It was the closet that made McClurkin what he was and what he still is.

Thanks Rod 2.0 for informing us about this one. You can read Rod McCullom's post on Donnie McClurkin's rants by clicking here.

[I KEEP ON FALLIN']
What's Gotten Into Donnie McClurkin [TheDailyVoice.com]

Bishop Yvette Flunder Responds to McClurkin's Attacks on Gay Youth [Rod 2.0]
Donnie McClurkin Gets Real as He Talks About His New CD and Being Delivered... [Pearl's Window]

Gotta Have Gospel! Christmas In Stores

2009-11-12T09:38:00.000-08:00

The best-selling Gotta Have Gospel series, made possible by a joint-venture between Integrity Music and Zomba Gospel, has released its first holiday compilation featuring a strong list of gospel artists including John P. Kee, Richard Smallwood, Yolanda Adams, Juanita Bynum, Israel Houghton, CeCe Winans and many others.

"Gospel consumers and music fans everywhere will love this homage to the greatest songs of Christmas as well as newly re-purposed classics done in a contemporary gospel style," says Daniel D. McGuffey, chief marketing officer of Integrity Media. "Some of the biggest gospel artists in the world have put their unique signature spin on these wonderful songs, which makes for a marvelous seasonal experience."

The single disc collection is in stores now and is available in CD and digitial form at Amazon.com.

BeBe Axed from Oprah

2009-11-06T11:11:00.001-08:00

According to the Associated Press, BeBe Winans has been uprooted from the Oprah Winfrey Show until the legal charges against him based on allegations of him attacking his ex-wife are resolved in court.

Winans did appear on her show last week to promote Still, his new album with sister CeCe, and was seen in promos for upcoming shows. A show focusing on a "karaoke challenge," bolstered by the debut of the video game Band Hero, was supposed to feature (BeBe) Winans, but will be cut from the show according to show spokesman Don Halcombe.

Amid growing concerns from bloggers about Oprah's harsh stance against domestic abuse, Oprah responded in a statement: "Domestic violence is something that I wouldn't tolerate. Period."

More growing concerns for Winans has sparked surrounding the rumors of his departure as a judge and co-host on BET's Sunday Best. At press time, BET has not confirmed such a report, but the rumors seem to be true, as reported earlier by Gospel Pundit. BeBe & CeCe Winans are still expected to go on tour to promote their new album.

[AXE TO THE ROOT]
BeBe Winans Leaving Sunday Best? [Gospel Pundit]

Oprah bans BeBe Winans from her show and I have a challenge for gospel music fans [Beliefnet]
Oprah Responds to Domestic Violence Double Standards, Bans BeBe Winans [The Boombox]

'Free Larry Langford' Begins

2009-11-02T23:48:00.000-08:00

I smelt this one coming.

At the social networking web site Facebook, one proud Larry Langford supporter put their foot towards the threshing floor to start up a militant campaign of awareness to help free Larry Langford. Since the trial ended, the fan page --Free Larry Langford -- has welcomed a staggering following of over 3,000 members.

Since most of the former Jefferson County commissioners have all been persecuted and lost in the court of law - including Gary White, Mary Buckelew, Jeff Germany and Chris McNair - the next in line ended up being former Birmingham mayor and former Jefferson County commission president Larry Langford.

Two of the former commissioners (White, Buckelew) were white. The other two were black. Still a considerable number of black citizens in Birmingham rush to his aid crying out that the trial was racially motivated. The group's description states that "racism is still in effect, yes he may be have been wrong but those crackers r doing da same thang he was doin n gettin away with it." *

In his defense, over 3,377 Facebook members have joined the Fan page to express their love and admiration for the embattled mayor. Strange isn't it. Where was that super large support group when Frank "God's Gangster" Matthews and SCLC drum major Rev. Calvin Woods initiated a prayer rally the Sunday before his bribery trial? Only 33 supporters showed up.

Goes to show you Birmingham can sometimes be mostly all talk, very little action.

Check out the special key chain Mr. Matthews wants every Langford supporter to have.

*Apologizes for the bad grammar, but we quoted the text from the original fan page. Author's actual words.

[A BIG LANGFRAUD]
Vote 2009: Let's do something (like select another mayor) [Wade on Birmingham]

Langford found guilty on all counts! [Birmingham Weekly]
The Life and Crimes of Larry Langford [Birmingham Weekly]
Birmingham mayor Larry Langford guilty on bribery, fraud, conspiracy [Wade on Birmingham]
The Trial of Larry Langford [Wade on Birmingham]
Trials in Alabama: Langford, Thomas [PRAYZE Report]

Stellar Award Nominees, Controversy

2009-10-29T22:20:00.001-07:00

Announced on Thursday during a press conference in Nashville, TN, Don Jackson of Central City Productions delivered the list of nominees for the 25th Annual Stellar (Gospel Music) Awards.

Among the chief of nominees, a number of independent artists including Vickie Winans, Phillip Carter & SOV and Malcolm Williams & Great Faith head the list of multiple mentions. Artists including Donald Lawrence & Co., Paul Morton, Israel Houghton, Mary Mary, Kierra Sheard and Hezekiah Walker top the list for most mentions from mainstream talent.

Axed from the final ballot and set of nominees were Coko, James Fortune & FIYA, Sheri Jones-Moffett, 21:03 and Melinda Watts.

Word has already leaked of the possibility of paid-for-play or behind-the-scenes payola as being the the reasons behind so many multiple mentions from independent artists in the category. The biggest observation coming from upset Stellar supporters stems around Vickie Winans' super list of nominations - coming from an album that bearly met the deadline for an album release date according to SAGMA (Stellar Academy) guidelines.

According to the Stellar award web site, nominees for the 25th annual Stellar Awards must be released in between the dates of July 1, 2008 and August 31, 2009. Winans' album How I Got Over was released to stores on August 25, 2009. The album made the deadline, but gospel lovers are concerned if foul play is at fault.

Jawn Murray, popular celeb journalist and Tom Joyner's gossip resource, started a Twitterbot called #YouKnowYouMadeTheStellarsBallot. One of the most hilarious comments he posted on his Twitter page mentioned "you know you made the Stellars' ballot if your CD has never appeared on the Billboard Gospel charts."

The jokes, coming from a large source of gospel artists and industry vets, made the Twitter bot a popular destination. Some of the most popular jokes posted included:
"You know you made the Stellars' ballot if you didn't know you was nominated," "You know you made the Stellars' ballot if you and your label buy up all the units" and "You know you made the Stellars' ballot if you spent your entire budget on SAGMA memberships."

Indeed, the controversy continues.

[STELLAR-BRATION'S OVER]
Stellar Awards [Official Website]
25th Annual Stellar Awards; Full List of Nominees [Gospelflava.com]

BeBe & CeCe Featured on Jet Mag

2009-10-29T21:57:00.001-07:00

Returning to the music charts with their new reunion project Still, gospel duo BeBe & CeCe Winans landed on the front cover of last week's issue of JET Magazine. The two talk about their new album, the long-anticipated reunion and the loss of their father.

If you can, pick up a copy of the issue at your local news stands.

[JET AWAY]
EbonyJet [Official Website]
BeBe & CeCe Winans Are Reaching People Where They Are [1800 Gospel]
BeBe & CeCe Winans Album Review of Still [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]

Mayor Langford Found Guilty

2009-10-28T21:35:00.000-07:00

I may be setting my eyes on moving away from Birmingham, but today is a new day.

Larry P. Langford, mayor of Birmingham, Ala, was found guilty on all 60 counts in his federal bribery case. It only took 2 hours for the jury to come up with their decision.

This was what he had to say to the news media and his critics. Ouch. Feel pretty sad for NBC 13's Jon Paepcke. Please watch the clips for yourself.

He along with his wife blamed the verdict on race, even though the defense asked if the case be moved to another city than Birmingham; feeling as if the trial would not be fair for the defendant. Both Al LaPierre and Bill Blount, former co-defendants in the case, plead guilty earlier this year and even testified on the witness stand. Langford didn't.

Beginning today, Carole Smitherman, council president, will serve as interim mayor until a special election is help. Valerie Abbott will become acting council president.

A full report and quick bio on the now-former mayor can be read at:
Wade on Birmingham.

[THE FINAL VERDICT]

Langford found guilty on all counts! [Birmingham Weekly]
The Life and Crimes of Larry Langford [Birmingham Weekly]

Birmingham mayor Larry Langford guilty on bribery, fraud, conspiracy [Wade on Birmingham]

The Trial of Larry Langford [Wade on Birmingham]
Trials in Alabama: Langford, Thomas [PRAYZE Report]

Two Churches Divided By Racism, Reunited 200 Years Later

2009-10-27T20:33:00.000-07:00

During an unprecedented year filled with racial harmonics and historical firsts, two historical churches in Philadelphia are hoping to mend the broken pieces of a 200-year old schism that led Rev. Richard Allen and Absalom Jones, the founding fathers of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, to walk out of St. George's United Methodist Church.

On Sunday, October 25, the parishioners of both congregations, Mother Bethel AME and St. George, united together at St. George during Sunday morning worship services. The bittersweet occasion proved to be a glorious moment of historical relevance as both congregations help to heal the wounds of the past.

"This balcony that's been a symbol of bad memories can also be something that stokes some hope and some positive memories moving into the future - that we can be together." Rev. Fred Day, pastor of St. George's, said to CBS 3.

According to news reports, the reunion idea was developed by both pastors, Rev. Day of St. George's and Rev. Mark Kelly Tyler of Mother Bethel, not long ago.

Day asked Tyler to preach as part of the 240th anniversary. "Why don't I bring Mother Bethel with me ?" Tyler asked Day. Tyler recalled the conversation in an interview last week.

He acknowledged that "a few persons in both congregations were wondering why this was necessary," Tyler said. "A few in our church didn't think going back could ever change anything. And there was some apprehension of us returning on the other side."

But no dissonance was ever expressed, and both congregations overwhelmingly approved the idea, said Tyler, who had been looking forward to his moment in St. George's pulpit.

"...It's a sense of rejoicing, moving beyond bitterness," said Tyler.

Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love, was also the center of attention in 2008 when a presidential-hopeful Barack Obama delivered an important speech focusing on America's unresolved racial problems. The Constitution Center, the site of Obama's message, is just a few blocks away from St. George.

2009 marks the 240th anniversary of St. George. The congregations will meet once again: next time at Mother Bethel AME.

[TIME WILL HEAL]
Philadelphia Congregations Break Down Barriers (Video) [CBS 3]

Methodist congregation, split by racism 200 years ago, unites [Philadelphia Inquirer]

Blood is thicker than water [Tyler's AME History Notes]

Trials in Alabama: Langford, Thomas

2009-10-22T16:34:00.000-07:00

For the month of October (boo), the eyes of the law remain glued on the state of Alabama for the biggest spook-tacular to ever outshine the perils of goblins and witches. Bloomberg opened an editorial this week on Alabama's status using the headline: Armageddon in Alabama. Whoa, could it be?

Two high-profiled cases, now making national headlines, are already in session, which include Mayor Larry P. Langford (D), the current mayor of Birmingham, Ala., who has been accused by the feds of bribery, and former Alabama Circuit Court Judge Herman Thomas, who is accused of exchanging leniency for sexual acts such as paddling, masturbation and oral sex to convicted felons.

First case: Larry P. Langford.

While never shy from controversy and the media, Langford is heading up an ocean without a paddle. Both Al LaPierre and Bill Blount, who formerly plead not guilty to their crimes and who stood as co-defendants with Langford, worked up a plea agreement with the government. As part of their plea deal, both will be called to testify against the mayor during the trial.

Langford faces 60 charges from a federal indictment returned in June 2008 and unsealed six months later. Among the charges are bribery, money laundering, conspiracy, mail and wire fraud and filing a false tax return. If convicted on all counts, Langford could serve a staggering maximum of 804 years in federal prison.

In closing, take a good listen to the rhetoric delivered at the prayer vigil held last Sunday. Leading the pep rally are Frank Matthews, known as God's Gangster, and SCLC local leader Rev. Calvin Woods. Matthews was recently hired by Langford to serve as the co-director of Birmnigham's Office of Citizen Assistance. Only 55 people attended.

A snippet of the vigil has been posted below:

This quote had me laughing, but it's a golden truth from Birmingham Weekly.

"The vigil was led by the Reverend Calvin Woods of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. That means the same organization that persuaded 3,500 students to come downtown and confront Bull Connor in May 1963 couldn’t get 60 people to come downtown to listen to a guy on a bullhorn in October 2009."

Second case: Herman Thomas

The former Mobile, Ala. judge, known for sporting his bowties and for being a proud cardcarrier of the Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity, is facing major heat due to the bizarre nature of the allegations. Thomas, 48, faces more than 20 felony charges including sodomy, attempted sodomy, sex abuse and assault. Sodomy is the only class A felony, which is punishable by 10 years to life in prison. The case included 11 alleged victims and 52 counts. Closing statements have already been made and the 5-man, 7-woman jury, as of 3:34 p.m on Thursday, begins their deliberations on the case.

Words of advice:
Even if you are a man or woman of the law, that doesn't mean you are a man or woman above the law.

Follow daily updates on the Larry Langford case at:
LangfordTrial on Twitter (NBC 13)
Wade on Birmingham
Birmingham Weekly
Al.com

[BREAK IN THE LAW]

The Life and Crimes of Larry Langford [Birmingham Weekly]

Paltry prayer vigil means Langford love lagging [Birmingham Weekly]
Herman Thomas trial: Jury begins deliberations... [Mobile Press-Register]

Thomas trial: Inmates testify ex-judge spanked, abused them [Rod 2.0]

James Fortune and Isaac Carree Robbed

2009-10-13T21:54:00.000-07:00

Columbus Day was a holiday and a day off from work for some. For Isaac Carree (of Men of Standard fame) and gospel artist James Fortune, it was just a day of horrid discovery.

The reports were first made on their Twitter accounts and eventually leaked on gospel radio. Early reports on Gospelflava.com stated they were robbed in Atlanta. Well, we have since read an entire different version at other gospel online resources (including GospelPundit.com). They were robbed at gunpoint while leaving Le Peep's restaurant near Houston's Galleria. Personal belongings reported stolen, according to the victims, were iMac computers, jewelry, passports and money. Both Carree and Fortune were unharmed.

[DON'T NOBODY GIVE ME NO BAD NEWS...]
James Fortune & Isaac Carree Robbed Yesterday (GospelPundit.com)
Isaac Carree (Twitter)
James Fortune (Twitter)

Former Pastor Found Guilty of Murder

2009-10-12T10:45:00.000-07:00

We try not to cover too many stories about religion gone bad. But hey, stuff happens.

This story didn't get profiled here when it first came up, but we sure wanted to make a post of the guilty verdict given to Robert Reaves, a former pastor of Cedar International Fellowship in Durham. Reaves, also referred as a self-proclaimed bishop, was found guilty last week of killing a woman in his congregation. Prosecutors said Reaves was "rebuffed after making sexual advances toward a former college basketball star who rented a room from him," according to Rod 2.0. "...so he stalked and killed the man's girlfriend in revenge."

Steven Randolph, the basketball star and former roommate, also testified in the trial and mentioned Reaves' interest of offering free rent in exchange for oral sex.

It didn't take long for the Wake County jury to give the final verdict: just a day and a half.

During the closing arguments of the case, the prosecutors mentioned the minister's gloomy crime sheet, which included sexual misconduct with boys. He was found guilty of first-degree murder and faces life in prison without parole.

Reaves' church family had very little to say about the verdict or their f0rmer pastor. Well, what could they say? Well, they could try to explain why an anti-gay preacher like Reaves would also live a hypocritical, private lifestyle - while harming and killing innocent people.

Stuff happens - even in the church.

[GUILTY INDEED]
Guilty verdict in I-540 murder trial [WTVD-TV Raleigh]
Wake jury convicts Reaves in NCCU slaying [Durham Hearld Sun]

Ex-pastor's DNA was on murder victim's steering wheel [WRAL.com]

GUILTY: Jury Convicts Closeted Anti-Gay Pastor Robert Reaves of Murder [Rod 2.0]

Tyler Perry Recounts Child Abuse

2009-10-10T10:03:00.000-07:00

The famed producer behind the popular Madea movies, #1 box-office dramedies and stage plays opens up about the painful abuse he experienced as a child to his father. Tyler Perry, born Emmitt Perry, Jr., changed his name to distance himself from his father.

Perry recounted a few of those disturbing revelations on his web site's blog after realizing an upcoming movie he's working on conjured up some of the raw emotions from his past. "I'm tired of holding this in," Perry wrote on his site,"so I've decided to give some away."

One night when his mother was gone, Perry stated, his drunken father "got the vacuum cleaner extension cord and trapped me in a room and beat me until the skin was coming off my back."

Perry also wrote that his father, a construction worker, constantly used profane insults at him and belittled him until he turned 19.

Perry has since forgiving his father from his abuse. Attempts to reach his father for comment, according to CNN, were unsuccessful.

Not as publicized as the physical and verbal abuse, Perry also spoke about child molestation horrors he received from a neighborhood woman at the age of 10. He also spoke of a church-goer who molested him as a kid. The man died broke, according to Perry's statements, and Perry was asked by the family to help pay for the funeral. "I quickly said no, but I wish I would have said yes. There is something so powerful to me in burying the man that molested me," Perry wrote. "I would have dug the grave myself."

Precious, a movie about an illiterate, obese Harlem girl who is abused, hits theaters this fall. The movie, also starring Mariah Carey, will be produced by Perry along with talk show mogul and internationally-known philanthropist Oprah Winfrey.

[TALKIN' ABOUT IT]

Tyler Perry recounts childhood abuse on Web site [CNN]

'Madea' actor-director Tyler Perry reveals history of childhood abuse, molestation on Web site [NY Daily News.com]

Tyler Perry's Messages [Official Web site]

Obama Wins Nobel Peace Prize

2009-10-09T09:27:00.001-07:00

To some it comes as a surprise. To others, it's elementary.

The work President Barack Obama put in to "building momentum behind his initiative to reduce nuclear arms, ease tensions in the Muslim world and stress diplomacy and cooperation rather than unilateralism" were the grounds of success for the high honor.

Already nine months in his presidential run, many thought it was too early for the popular president (look at the polls and his current approval rating, as of this week) to receive such a nod. Obama, himself, said he was surprised and deeply humbled by the honor. According to the Associated Press, he plans to travel to Oslo to accept the prize, which he said he does not see "as a recognition of my own accomplishments," but rather as a recognition of goals he has set for the United States and the world.

"I do not feel that I deserve to be in the company of so many transformative figures that have been honored by this prize," Obama said.

Still, his work on the Iraq and Afghanistan wars are far from over. He is thinking about sending additional troops, led by demands from the military, and may be considering the decision to ask allies to help out.

Other sitting presidents who have received the covetous award include Theodore Roosevelt, in 1906 and President Woodrow Wilson in 1919. Al Gore received the award in 2000 for his work in raising awareness for global warming.

Thanks Rod 2.0 for the Obama headshot.

[AND THE AWARD GOES TO...]
President Barack Obama wins Nobel Peace Prize [Yahoo/Associated Press]
President Obama wins Nobel Peace Prize [Reuters]

President Barack Obama's approval rating is on upswing in new AP poll [NYDailyNews.com]

Steve Harvey Captures TBN Audience

2009-10-07T01:00:00.000-07:00

Normally I don't watch TBN. I'm just not a big fan of religious programming. After hearing the rhetoric from super-conservative bullies, I just slowly lost interest.

But GospelPundit.com led me to watch the Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) archived copy of October 5's Praise the Lord. Glad that I did.

The evening's lineup was in rare form that night. Donnie McClurkin hosted the live taping, while special musical guests Vanessa Bell Armstrong and refreshing newcomer Melinda Watts brought some of their best stuff and gusto to the stage. Armstrong debuted her new single, "Good News," from her recently-released album The Experience; sending the audience into a Holy Ghost frenzy. And Watts, surprisingly, sung "Come Boldly." Astonishing enough that in my album review of her debut project People Get Ready I mentioned the song was the strongest moment on board. But thw show's first guest, renowned comedian Steve Harvey captured the heart of the evening. It was hilarious, uplifting and emotional - even leaving the original King of Comedy in tears.

Harvey, a New York best selling author and radio host, brought his blunt and forward humor to the stage and incredibly spoke of his faith in God. The infamous introduction of Jesus segment, taken from his T.D. Jakes' Megafest stand-up performance, opened up the program and had the audience enraptured with shouts of joy. But his breakdown on men, excerpts from his best-selling book Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man, allowed the church crowd to get a dose of reality and truth from a renowned mainstream comedian. How incredible is that.

Powerful words from Harvey, when talking about fame, faith and the troubles of the Internet:
"It's this fame thing that makes it hard. See, my life is under a microscope. I get sick of that sometimes. People don't understand how that is, man, to have your life dissected by people who don't know you. See, the Internet has become this place for evil to dwell. People who blog who have no sense of reality. They just blog about you, don't even know you...I have kids that be reading stuff that ain't true about their father. But you gotta have a piece of you that hold you when all of it is bad. I give God all the credit."

After hearing Harvey's transparency, his profound testimony and words of truth, there was no need to even bring out the preacher of the hour.

Below is a short five-minute snippet from Harvey's TBN appearance.

[BEHIND-THE-SCENES]
Steve Harvey, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Melinda Watts - Archive [TBN.com]

Lexi Show Gets a Little Spicy

2009-09-23T22:50:00.000-07:00

Lexi is on a roll with her highly-acclaimed, cable TV talk show The Lexi Show.

After debuting her new season with a highly controversial one-on-one interview with urban gospel/R&b singer Ton3x, Lexi returns with an even greater episode. This time around, Lexi sits down to chat one-on-one with Pastor Tony Smith, an Atlanta preacher who has become the latest YouTube sensation of bold, brash and unapologetic preachers. His bold statements, rolled up with attacks on popular church leaders like Bishop T.D. Jakes, Paula White, Joyce Meyer and Bishop Eddie Long, has giving him a brutal edge of saltiness over the controversial Rev. David Manning of the New York-based ATLAH Ministries.

Things even got heated when Smith tries to mimick Lexi's decorum and professionalism. Lexi bites back, with a little Wendy Williams grit, when she says "You gonna start with me tonight? I'm not the one." The moment is spectacular.

Watch all three parts and get a good dose of church humor and religious domination.

[MORE COMP-LEXI-TIONS]

Lexi Television Show (YouTube)

Lexi (Official Website)

Tonex' Opens Up About His Sexuality (PRAYZE Report)

Stellar Awards First Round: Now Online

2009-09-23T12:14:00.001-07:00

Get in on the nomination process. If you love gospel and you have time, head to the online ballot and cast your votes. Online voting is available to the public during the 1st round of the 25th annual Stellar Awards. Only one vote per email address.

Vote for your favorites at:
http://www.thestellarawards.com/.

It's a pretty long ballot and, for most of the choices, you must vote for 10 candidates with your first preference being the number one pick. From what I gathered, artists with multiple mentions included Israel Houghton, Mary Mary, Donald Lawrence & Co., Hezekiah Walker & LFC, Malcolm Williams & Great Faith, Phillip Carter & SOV, Shari Addison, Melinda Watts, Lee Williams & the Spiritual Q.C's and Vickie Winans. But remember, this is just the preliminary stages.

[STELLAR-BRATION]
Stellar Awards (Official Website)

Update: Deitrick and GospelPundit Working Together

2009-09-20T21:52:00.000-07:00

We kinda smelled this one coming. At least I did.

EJ Gaines, the forerunner for popular gospel blog GospelPundit.com and former industry intern, will sit and chat with Deitrick Haddon over his recent homophobic rant on his Twitter page involving gospel artist Tonex'. The coverage, first broke ground at GospelPundit when Gaines felt it was unacceptable and unnecessary for that type of language to be made in the gospel field. The original post, which featured over 70 comments from concerned gospel fans, has since been removed "pending a discussion that Deitrick wants to have with me." said Gaines on his Twitter page Saturday morning. "While I don't take responsibility for Deitrick Haddon's comments, I'm more concerned with bringing unity to this industry."

That might be the objective, EJ. But we believe it's a little more than that. Maybe you're just giving an olive branch to your fellow co-workers and employer.

Another addition to the story:
Deitrick Haddon's Twitter page, originally made public for his fans and supporters, has now been protected his tweets from outside viewers. What once was public is now private.

Below is a picture of what you will find when you click on Haddon's Twitter page; that's if you're not a follower already.

[THE BIRDS ARE TWEETING AGAIN]

Deitrick Speaks Out: "No Sissy Bone In My Body" (PRAYZE Report)
Gospel Singer Deitrick Haddon: "Not a Sissy Bone In My Body" (Rod 2.0)

In the Twitterhood: Deitrick Haddon Sparks Debate on Homosexuality (GospelPundit.com - link no longer active)

Deitrick Haddon (Twitter)

Gospel Pundit (Twitter)

Deitrick Speaks Out: "Not a Sissy Bone In My Body"

2009-09-17T12:24:00.000-07:00

On his Twitter page, gospel artist Deitrick Haddon decided to chime in on the popular online debate surrounding homosexuality in the church. Apparently it created major attention when EJ Gaines posted a thread on his site, GospelPundit.com. Now with over 50 comments at Gaines' site and other blogs jumping into the heated conversation, Gaines extracted from the Twitter content some of the homophobic language from Haddon's statements.

"All Gospel singers are not gay as I don't have a sissy bone in my body."

Apparently outraged from Tonex's recent conversation with gospel artist Lexi on her Word Network cable show The Lexi Show, Haddon also commented, "Listen people. God loves everybody but he hates sin! God destroyed Sodom & Gomorah because the city was gay! You think he wants it in his church?" He did repeat on several Twitter posts that he was not a gay basher or homophobic, but his usage of the word" sissy," a derogatory term for "homosexual" upset a number of bloggers and readers.

"God is not pleased with the anger we exhibit, and the venom we spew," Gaines stated in his editorial. "Just because we say “I’m doing it for YOU, Lord.” We condemn other religions for committing hateful acts in the name of God, we have seen (as a nation) racial oppression premised on people’s errant interpretation of Scripture. And we’ve not liked it....let's do better."

In response to Haddon's comments, Tonex' spoke to popular urban gay blog Loldarian .com and said that he was a "little bit disappointed with the response. I think the term "sissy" wasn't necessary but as a brother of mine, no love is lost here."

Not all stand in EJ's corner. A number of Haddon supporters and anti-gay protesters are also becoming more and more vocal with their stance on homosexuality and Tonex's decisions to speak out about his sexuality. BIGG C left these words, "Come on people, please. Why are we so soft on sin, God aint., yes he’s a forgiving God, but he ain’t soft on the sinning. Homosexuality is sin, fornication is a sin, lying is a sin. It aint being hateful if we call someone out who is wrong, if we base it according to the word of God. DH shouldn’t have to apologize for nothin’. He’s not hatin” or being hypocritical."

Daservant posted, "Ohhh I get it now…SISSY…has been elevated to the big ‘N’ word. Never knew…thought it was just like any other word used…not of the caliber as N*GGER OR F*GGOT OR CR*CKER!, man SISSY is not that serious!!"

Amazingly, the controversial content was removed Wednesday from Haddon's Twitter page and shows no sign of the conversation ever taking place. No word if it was removed due to possible orders from his music label, Verity Records, or its parent company, Zomba.

Haddon, married to gospel singer Damita Haddon, topped the gospel charts in 2006 with Crossroads. In 2008, he released his most recent project Revealed, which featured the R&B crossover hit "Love Him Like I Do," featuring guest appearances from Mary Mary and American Idol winner Ruben Studdard.

In conclusion, maybe Haddon needs to learn a valuable lesson from Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC), tennis champion Serena Williams and hip-hop icon Kanye West about civility. There's a time and a place to say things. Artists needs to get back to what they do best...stop preaching and promoting their ideologies and get back to making good music. Do we buy their music because of how good they preach or how great their music is? Right now, we can't tell.

Read the other comments from Haddon's Twitter posts below.

[LET'S HEAR IT FOR THE BOY]

Deitirck Haddon Sparks Debate on Homosexuality (Gospel Pundit)
Gospel Music: "There's Not a Sissy Bone in My Body" (Loldarian.com)
YPJ Calls for Order (PRAYZE Report)

Tonex' Opens Up About His Sexuality (PRAYZE Report)

YPJ Calls for Order

2009-09-14T12:07:00.000-07:00

Since Tonex opened up about his closet on the Lexi Show, Facebookers and Twitterers have opened up dialogue about the state of gospel music and the need to do something about the most recent buzz topics in the gospel industry today (i.e., the PJ Morton/Tye Tribbett secular vs. sacred debate on CNN, the Mary Mary & Ne-Yo collaboration, Whitney Houston's emergence as gospel star with "I Look to You").

Seems like YPJ wants a piece of the action. And he's calling all cars to the scene of the crime.

Don't know who he is? Well, we don't either. But he's making some noise with his viral Facebook video calling on major gospel artists (including Deitrick Haddon, Mary Mary, Fred Hammond, Tonex', Tye Tribbett, Kirk Franklin, Donald Lawrence, Kierra Sheard, and Donnie McClurkin) to rise up using the spirit of prevention with the hopes to create a healthy dialogue about these and soon-to-come situations.

A brief snippet on YPJ's profile: he's part rapper, part preacher and a Tye Tribbett admirer. His biggest moment in the gospel spotlight was his cameo appearance on Israel Houghton's A Deeper Level project where he raps on "Surely Surely."

It would have been nice if he didn't have to call out the Who's Who in gospel music in the video. Some are in trouble, some are not, some are superstar gospel artists and some are just trying to move away from a murky past. YPJ, on the other hand, does his hardest to bring all the junk into one video. It just seems that the guy, who so happens to be an artist himself, is in desperate need of attention. If he's any good at doing music, I think YPJ needs to focus on the greater good and perfect his gift. The desperate need to bring everybody into one room to try to unify (something that is probably impossible to do in these end times) is like trying to morph Republicans and Democrats into one single political party. YPJ, get in the studio and try to make some music. That's if you can.

In the video, YPJ summons gospel artists to come together and talk about these matters at his state of the art facility.

"I offer you my facility. I have a 2,000 seat sanctuary, 88,000-square foot plaza, which has the accommodations necessary for those of you who may be celebrities and stars, if you need different dressing rooms, whatever you got, whatever you need, I can handle it. I'm offering my facility for free."

By the way, at his request, YPJ is urging gospel audiences and fans to "repost the daily." Not just the message. He wants you to spread the word about the messenger and his video. How clever.

To view the video, you must be a member of Facebook.

[YPJ YELLS SOS]

YPJ calls out Kirk, Tye, Tonex, Fred & more (Facebook)

Tonex' Opens Up about His Sexuality (PRAYZE Report)

Tonex' Opens Up About His Sexuality

2009-09-11T20:58:00.000-07:00

Always considered a maverick and controversial, Anthony C. Williams, II, best known to the gospel world as Tonex' with a list of gospel hits under his belt including "God Has Not 4Got" and "Make Me Over," opened up to talk show host Lexi on the season premiere of the Lexi Show - which aired nationally on the Word Network. The interview dealt with the hard questions and reflected back on familiar territory including the jaded events surrounding The Naked Truth, child molestation and his four-year marriage. On the show, Tonex', who has always been embattled with rumors about his sexuality, addresses the subject by confirming that he is "attracted to the same sex."

Amidst the tough responses and disgruntled viewers that remain disappointed at Tonex's decision to open up about his life, he spoke about the hypocrisies of the black church and its unfair treatment towards the LGBT community. "The church has completely faggotized everybody who's gay, sends them to hell over the pulpit and the church literally screams "hooray" and are happy about that. And yet, we celebrate the pastor who has a clean record and a clean look, but yet he is still doing the same thing that the same gender loving people are doing."

He also raised a powerful piece of logic "People can say 'See, I knew it all along," Tonex muttered. "If you knew it all along, this is the same guy who was taking you into the presence of the Lord. This is the same guy that wrote those songs. I'm no different."

Previously, on many occasions when addressed about his sexuality, Tonex' denied the rumors. "I take ownership of that," Tonex' now admits.

Several online media journalists are already labeling Tonex' has being the only gospel artist to date to speak out about their homosexual tendencies. The information is inaccurate. In 2008, Ray Boltz, a popular Contemporary Christian/gospel singer and Dove Award winner, came out the closet. But Tonex's views and decision to speak out openly on the matters are entirely different from Donnie McClurkin or even Terrell Carter (a Tyler Perry co-star who recently was outed online by an ex-boyfriend with several personal pictures depicting an intimate relationship, but has yet to address the allegations in the media). Tonex' instead becomes transparent and finally delivers a honest and courageous thing; something most gospel recording artists are too afraid to do.

Cell phones and Twitter pages should be blowing up right now. Surely, Tonex' should be commended for blowing the whistle on what we knew all along about the gospel industry, but were too afraid to talk about. Certainly, the hypocrisy from closeted preachers, ministerial actors, homophobic-and-hateful ministers of the cloth still possess a mighty dominance in the house of God. And that shouldn't be so.

Tonex's (now spelled Ton3x) last album, released on Battery Records and distributed through parent company Zomba, received some attention for its subject matter and mature lyricism, but is considered by critics to be one of his safest pop-oriented albums to date.

Watch Part II of the interview below.

Parts I and III can be viewed at Lexi's YouTube channel page.

[COMP-LEXI]
Lexi Television Channel (YouTube)

WATCH: Gospel Star Tonex Confirms Rumors and Same Sex Attraction (Rod 2.0)

Madea Actor Terrell Carter Caught in Media Spin (PRAYZE Report)

Secular vs. Sacred Music Profiled on CNN

2009-08-28T01:10:00.000-07:00

In light of an engaging conversation piece presented by PJ Morton's new book Why Can't I Sing About Love, CNN.com decided to speak with the Grammy-award winning song writer and producer about his notable decision to sing love ballads. Surprisingly, the battle brews as CNN's TJ Holmes asks gospel recording artist Tye Tribbett about the idea of singing both gospel and R&B. Tribbett's response felt as if it leapt from the pages of a John Hagee camp meeting. In his own words, you simply can't do both.

It's a moving debate and has drawn up enough criticism on both avenues. Morton, the son of popular teleevangelist Pastor Paul S. Morton and also composer of gospel songs for Men of Standard and DeWayne Woods, is enjoyable a career working the indie soul circuit and aims to release mainstream R&B with substance and a message. Tribbett, who doesn't deny the "inspirationalism" of Morton's lyrics, feels it's impossible for a man "to serve two masters." Bold words there. Still, it's pretty weird for Tribbett to utter such an tough opinion when his music feels like it was inspired by the same R&B and soul geniuses that influenced Morton.

Watch the CNN report below.

Morton also rebuttals the argument at YouTube - in bible study fashion.

I was originally scheduled to interview PJ Morton earlier this month for PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com but had to postpone it for a future date. I am currently working on a rescheduled opportunity. After the coverage on CNN, I kinda wished I didn't cancel it from the beginning. Stay tuned for more details and possibly an additional article on this subject.

[WHY CAN'T I...]
Why Can't I Sing About Love (Official Website)
PJ Morton's Response to Critics (YouTube)
PJ Morton (on Twitter)

J Moss Readies for New Album Drop

2009-08-26T17:02:00.000-07:00

For a brief moment, record producer and gospel artist James Moss, who represents one-third of the hit-making production team PAJAM, experienced a career plunder in 2008 when news leaked about his marital infidelity. It became official when Lakisha Hughes, of Douglasville, GA, asked the courts for a paternity test resulting in J Moss being the child's father. To some observers, the hot press disappeared too quickly of the radar but many of Moss's supporters still felt the sting from the disappointing news. The new album, Just James, hopes to highlight some of those personal episodes and to offer up a spiritual voyage into the paths of reconciliation, forgiveness and repentance.

At the PRAYZEHYMN Message Board, members highlighted the uncomfortable sting of the public's disapproval of mega pop stars like Chris Brown and R. Kelly, but feel the gospel community, who are spiritually conditioned to forgive the sins of the past, will be able to transition themselves beyond Moss's shortcomings. "In a perfect world, we would say just let the man be 'cause we all have sinned and fallen short, expresses PRAYZEHYMN member Ashleigh D. "But the truth of the matter is we have a hard time accepting the message if we find fault with the messenger. If he wants people to buy his music and accept anything that he has to offer, he is gonna have to prove himself."

During a candid, transparent interview with GospelPundit.com, Moss explained that the leaking of the news was a vital part of the cleansing process. "For one, I didn’t want to leave that lifestyle because it felt good, said Moss. "And, you know, people say “affair” and they think it was some long-term thing. This wasn’t that. It was something that I got caught up in. But I wasn’t afflicted until it became public. So, I feel like it was GOOD that it came out like it did because had it not, I wouldn’t have been able to learn His statutes even better. I don’t think I would’ve stopped because I was enjoying what I had."

The new album, Just James, hit store shelves this Tuesday, August 25.

[JUST KING JAMES?]
J Moss Interview (GospelPundit.com)

J Moss Owes Child Support (PRAYZE Report)

Birmingham Crooks Celebrated

2009-08-18T00:05:00.001-07:00

On a (depressing) local level, Birmingham, Ala. and the citizens of Jefferson County are awaiting the sound of the trumpet that may just end some of its most recent public woes. Later this month, Mayor Larry P. Langford will face a jury with multiple counts of bribery and conspiracy as the long-awaited federal trial begins. Last year, the FBI made their arrest and broadcast their attempts to take the Birmingham mayor to court regarding a number of charges that include bribery. Two of the co-defendants in the trial, as we all expected, plead guilty to falsifying records. This quote comes from the Birmingham News regarding their dealings.

"The government alleges Langford used his influence to steer county financing business to Blount, resulting in Blount getting $7.1 million in fees. In return, prosecutors say, Blount showered Langford with $236,000 in cash, clothes and jewelry."

Their plea agreements represent the writing on the wall for the mayor's gloomy forecast for the future.

Wade Kwon, blog journalist and virtual buddy to the PRAYZE Report, has designed a nifty timeline of daily celebrations featuring Birmingham's biggest crooks for the entire month of August. Of the honorable mentions, former Healthsouth founder Richard Scrushy (whom once had a street named after him, thanks to Langford) is a no-brainer and lobbyist Al LaPierre, convicted last month, is a close buddy to Langford. Rev. Gregory L. Clarke, pastor of the New Hope Baptist Church, also made the list (yes, even pastors) for his conviction of filing false tax returns owing a total of $35,600 in back taxes. Kwon is saving Langford for the 31st. No surprise there since Langford, if convicted, will be the first mayor of the city ever to be removed from his honorable position. Just when Detroit's Kwame Kilpatrick reign of terror was just a figment of our imagination.

[CROOKED LETTER, CROOKED LETTER, I]
Birmnigham's Biggest Crooks [Wade on Birmingham]
31 crooks in 31 days? [Birmingham Weekly]
Blount expected to change plea [Birmingham News. AL.com]
Mister McCoy Can't Take the Heat [PRAYZE Report]

Check Your Pastor [PRAYZE Report]

Earl Paulk's Former Church Sold

2009-08-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

Reported in Charisma Magazine this week, the former mega church owned by the late Bishop Earl Paulk best known as the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit was sold for $17.6 million, according to CNL Speciality Real Estate in Orlando, Florida. The new tenants are Atlanta's Greater Traveler's Rest Baptist Church in Decatur, GA.

"We are happy to have brokered a successful outcome for a property of this size, especially in today's challenging economic climate," Matt Messier, broker and principal for CNL, said in a statement. The church campus houses a 6,000-seat main auditorium, a large fellowship hall, seven buildings, offices and a theater.

Paulk's legacy, reaching back to radical integration in the 1960s and "kingdom now" theology, drew over 10,000 members to the church during the 1990s. Gospel artists including John P. Kee, Richard Smallwood and James Bignon recorded successful gospel projects at Cathedral during its zenith. But prior to Paulk's passing, the church was in the controversial spotlight when a series of sexual misconduct allegations surfaced against him. Several women accused Paulk of leading them into sexual affairs while one victim alleged she was molested as a child.

D.E. Paulk, current pastor of the church and the son of the late predecessor, embraces universalism and "radically inclusive" teachings, which lead to the decline of most of its parishioners. Greater Traveler's Rest, a 6,000-member congregation, is pastored by E. Dewey Smith, Jr. and is also known in the Atlanta area for his dynamic music ministry and connections with the gospel community. The church has hosted live recording for the Chicago Mass Choir and Micah Stampley. Greater Traveler's Rest Church plans to host their first service in their new sanctuary on August 30.

For more details on this story, click here.

[NO MORE THRILLS ON CHAPEL HILL]
Greater Traveler's Rest Baptist Church (Official Website)
Greater Traveler's Rest Baptist Church Members Responds (YouTube)
Cathedral of the Holy Spirit (Official Website)

JJ Hairston & YP Rocks the BET Stage

2009-08-11T11:12:00.000-07:00

Promoting their upcoming album release Resting On His Promise, JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise worked their "Awesome God" magic on the BET set of Bobby Jones Gospel for their new season in Washington DC. The album, Resting On His Promise, hits stores September 1, 2009.

The cool back-to-school look, a bit synonymous to Tye Tribbett's Stand Out uniforms, looks cool on the choir. By the way, ain't JJ looking more and more like Common.

More photos from the BET set, featuring snaps with Vashawn Mitchell and Bishop Eric McDaniels, are below.

[JJ, YP, ETC.]
Light Records (Official Website)
Pre-order the CD Resting On His Promise (Amazon.com)
Light Announces New CDs from Coko and Youthful Praise (PRAYZE Report)

The Happenings at GMWA 2009

2009-07-26T22:14:00.000-07:00

This year's festivities at the 42nd annual Gospel Music Workshop of America convention is loaded with wonder and lots of stargazing. Of course, since the week long gathering sports a laundry list of worship services, musicals, concerts, live recordings and new artist showcases, we decided to condense some of the big events down to a thread. Hopefully, if you're anywhere near the Cincinnati area during this week, you will find a way to get to one or two - if not all - of our personally selected events.

MONDAY, JULY 27
Intercessory Prayer starts at 8:30 a.m. with the Daily Bread Service starting at 10:00 a.m. An unsigned artist showcase takes place at 4:30 p.m. Midnight musical (let the Praise Continue) takes place at midnight.

TUESDAY, JULY 28
Bishop Paul S. Morton, Sr. will be preaching during the Daily Bread Service from 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. After the service, according to the folks at Light Records, Morton will be signing copies of his new book and CD, Cry Your Last Tear.

A Gospel Announcers Guild (GAG) Showcase and Luncheon will take place afterwards at 4:30 p.m. where Bishop Morton will showcase his latest single and bonus track "Don't Do It Without Me."

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29
The 25th annual National Prayer Breakfast, sponsored by the GMWA Men of Promise, will take place at 7:30 a.m. The guest speaker will be the GMWA chairman Bishop Albert Jamison, with musical selections provided by Lamar Campbell and Chester D.T. Baldwin. The event will also honor a number of GMWA legends including founder Rev. James Cleveland, Rev. Theodore King, Dr. Isaac Whittmon, Bishop Richard "Mr. Clean" White, Rev. Quincy Fielding, Jr., Dr. Charles Fold, Dr. Steven Roberts, Rev. Daryl Coley and Rev. Timothy Wright. Individual tickets are $35.00.

The Tribute to the King celebration, in honor of Rev. James Cleveland, takes place at 4:00 p.m. Youth and young adult forum is scheduled at 11:00 p.m.

THURSDAY, JULY 30
A Who's Who in Gospel will make their way to the Duke Energy Convention Center for the Macy's sponsored-Gospel Festival at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are from $20-$40. Special musical guests include Shirley Caesar, Yolanda Adams, Byron Cage, Kurt Carr, Smokie Norful, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Bishop Paul S. Morton, Dorothy Norwood, Dottie Peoples, Youthful Praise feat. JJ Hairston, the Tommies Reunion Choir and others.

If you're into the Hat & Tea thing, check out the 5th annual Hatter's Tea at 3:00 p.m. The event will honor the musical contributions of Yolanda Adams and the legendary Clara Ward Singers. Individual tickets are $35. For more information, you can call the chairperson Juanita Suggs at 832.231.4590.

Men's and Women's night services takes place at midnight.

FRIDAY, JULY 31
Academic convocation and workshop recording begins at 9:00 a.m. and will conclude at 3:00 p.m.

Footage of Michael Jackson Pepsi Accident

2009-07-15T15:18:00.001-07:00

US Magazine purchased the footage to the pyrotechnic accident on the set of the controversial 1984 Pepsi commercial shoot and has since revealed it to the public in order to kill any doubts of the events' occurence. It is noted that Jackson - who suffered second-degree and third-degree burns to his scalp and face - became addicted to painkillers since the accident.

It is pretty sad and horrific to watch. Just letting you know, before viewing the footage, that you have been warned.

Erik Dillard Vocal Clinic: Show Premiere

2009-07-15T12:15:00.001-07:00

My good buddy Erik Dillard is doing big things! Some of you may remember him as an indie artist (releasing Great Things and The Basics) and for appearing on Bobby Jones Gospel years ago. Well, he's an excellent vocal technician with a strong background in vocal training, teaching and even music production. He's become a sensation on YouTube with his tutorials and vocal warm-up lessons - even internationally. Recently he posted one of the first episodes of his newly-invigorated Vocal Clinic, which features some neat warm-ups, vocal health specialist Crystal Sellers and a musical appearance from country songwriter/singer Cliff "Crash" Cody. Cool thing about it, it was taped before a live studio audience.

I enjoyed myself. Kinda wished I was there. The audience had fun and the viewers are as well.

Highlights (from me) include Cliff Cody's excellent song selection, that hilarious myth segment and the closing funky tongue twister performance at the end. Somebody is definitely going to sign up that band for a job well-done. And shout-out to the "Sherberts."

And for gospel viewers, the big question arises during the Q&A segment: "Is there a proper and great way to growl when singing?" Check out the videos to learn the answer.

According to Dillard, more episodes are soon to be posted, so be sure you subscribe to his YouTube page and keep checking out for more updates. Live tapings for the Erik Dillard Vocal Clinic will resume this fall.

See two segments of Episode 2 below.

[GET VOCAL ABOUT IT]
Erik Dillard Vocal Clinic [MySpace]
Erik Dillard Vocal Clinic [YouTube]

Madea Actor Terrell Carter Caught in Media Spin

2009-07-08T16:41:00.000-07:00

The rumor mill ran abuzz this week when Terrell Carter, a star in Tyler Perry's stage plays and featured actor in the famed Madea movie blockbusters, was outed this past weekend by an alleged ex-boyfriend who posted photos on the Internet featuring Carter and him together. Alex Cortez, the boyfriend, began posting pictures on networking web sites and on his profile pages at Twitter and MySpace while also writing about the scorn of the aforementioned relationship going wrong. In his words, Cortez wrote "Hell yeah i’m angry!…there are fucked up ppl out there no matter how nice they seem to be & it’s their fault, ppl they harm are bitter!"

Since the outing, black gossip blogs, gay news sources and other media outlets including MediaTakeOut, Rod 2.0, Sandra Rose, Advocate and PerezHilton have been lit up with hundreds of comments from Carter's supporters and some of Perry's hardcore fans. Sandra Rose, who reported last year that Carter was suspect, didn't help much when she wrote that "99 percent of the actors in Tyler's movies are gay."

The actor is also an indie soul artist who has released three albums, according to CDBaby. Along with his background in Tyler Perry gospel plays like Meet the Browns and Madea's Class Reunion, Carter was a background singer for Fred Hammond and Yolanda Adams.

No correspondence or a press statement from Carter's camp has surfaced since the rumored allegations hit the fan. Maybe he's hoping all of this will die down until the next Madea movie announces casting calls.

J MATT'S COMMENTS:
Since I have been heavily criticized for running a rumor mill at my gospel e-zine and blog (Keish, hope you're reading this), I wanted it to go on record that this blog entry was only submitted because no other gospel web site won't touch it. I was also questioned by the media about the immediate reaction from the faith community. I personally felt it was newsworthy because other news outlets have covered it and it also raises a lot of questions.

Will Carter press charges against Cortez for defamation of character?

When a gospel-related star is in trouble, why do the gospel web sites choke up?

And when issues of homosexuality arise, why is it the church gets louder and the gospel community goes silent?

These and other issues are bound to make you wonder if we are really being effective in our outreach of Christian evangelism. I hate that Carter is now the victim of a bitter, heartbroken drama-king, but the popular, yet paranoia-like proverb remains a careful reminder to our decision-making. It is also a title to one of Perry's stage plays in which Carter was also cast: "What's done in the dark...shall come to light."

Faith Makes Leaps at MJ Memorial Service

2009-07-07T23:29:00.000-07:00

It was indeed a spectacular event designed for a king. Over 11,000 fans converged on Los Angeles at the Staples Center on Tuesday to bid farewell to the King of Pop - Michael Jackson and to pay tribute to his musical legacy. Amongst those who attended and participated in the super memorial service was Los Angeles Laker pros Kobe Bryant and Ervin "Magic" Johnson, Rev. Al Sharpton, Brooke Shields, Rev. Bernice King, Rev. Martin Luther King, III, Smokey Robinson, Queen Latifah and Motown founder Berry Gordy.

Of the services' most memorable performances, Stevie Wonder wowed the crowd with a fitting two-song medley of "Never Dreamed You'd Leave in Summer" and "They Won't Go When I Go." But Wonder's words offered up a wave of inspiration and encouragement when he spoke: "I do know that God is good and I do know that as much as we may feel – and we do – that we need Michael here with us, God must have needed him far more.”

Also, pop sensation John Mayer provided an acoustic backdrop on an instrumental performance of "Human Nature," Jermaine Jackson glowed on the happy-hearted Charlie Chaplin classic "Smile" and Mariah Carey opened the star-studded show with the Jackson 5 hit "I'll Be There." But right after Queen Latifah recited the Maya Angelou poetic tribute "We Had Him," the event took on a radiant quality of spirituality that allowed Michael's star to only twinkle while God was getting all the glory.

Lionel Richie's brilliant display on "Jesus Is Love," a song he recorded with the Commodores in 1980, moved the audience to tears as Richie poignantly expressed his gratitude to God's amazing grace. The song was recently covered as a duet by gospel singer Smokie Norful and Heather Headley.

American Idol finalist and Oscar-winning Jennifer Hudson, who lost her mother, brother and nephew in a tragic domestic shooting last year, electrified the audience with her soulful gospel rendition of "Will You Be There."

R&B crooner Usher effortlessly walked through Jackson's heartfelt ballad "Gone Too Soon." Towards the end of the song after making his way to Jackson's golden casket, Usher was comforted by the Jackson family after being moved to tears.

Smokey Robinson reminded us of God's blessings and reminded listeners that Jackson was a blessing specially designed by God. Towards the end of his remarks, he repeated that "he's not really gone. He's going to live forever and ever and ever."

Shelia Jackson-Lee eclipsed the commentary of the King family with her amazing speech and her introduction of Resolution 600 officially recognizing Jackson as a musical icon, legend and humanitarian. She also reiterated the importance of faith and acknowledged while Jackson possessed a great sea of fans across all aisles of faiths and walks of life that the story of the Good Samaritan from the Holy Bible best described the heart of the late musical giant.

The closing performances showcased Jackson's strong good will ballads like "Heal the World" and "We Are the World;" which culminated with Jackson's farewell tour singers, his family and other celebrities and pop stars taking the stage as one big chorus.

But the opening moments, highlighted with the Andrae' Crouch Singers echoing "Soon and Very Soon" and the pallbearers entering the stadium with Jackson's gorgeous coffin, clearly set the angelic tone for a moving, somber tribute to the King of Pop.

Rumors in the faith community surfaced last week after gospel duo Mary Mary announced on their Twitter page that Michael Jackson accepted Jesus Christ into his life after a recent meeting with gospel legends Andrae' & Sandra Crouch. Afterwards, the Crouchs quickly responded to Charisma Magazine that the entire set of accusations were "incorrect and absolutely not true." During a recent visit with Jackson weeks before his passing, Andrae' Crouch planned to reunite with the pop icon to work on two new songs for a pending album release.

2009 marked the 50th anniversary of Berry Gordy's musical empire of Motown Records. Unfortunately, it also mourned the lost of one of pop music's greatest contributors.

Below is a clip of Lionel Richie's performance at the memorial service of his gospel ballad "Jesus Is Love."

[MORE MJ TRIBUTES]
Michael Jackson Memorial Unites Smokey Robinson, Mariah Carey, Stevie Wonder and More [Rolling Stone]

Unforgettable moments from the Michael Jackson memorial service [Los Angeles Times]

Tributes to Michael Jackson flow in [SoulTracks]

Remembering Michael Jackson [PRAYZEHYMNOnline]

James Fortune Wins ASCAP Gospel Song of the Year Award

2009-07-01T11:29:00.000-07:00

New York City - (June 29, 2009) - Co-written by James Fortune and Terrence Vaughn, the sensational gospel anthem "I Trust You" was named the Gospel Song of the Year at the 22nd Annual American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers Awards. The ASCAP Awards honor songwriters and publishers of the most celebrated songs across all genres. "I Trust You" topped Billboard's Hot Gospel Songs chart for a historic 29 weeks, and claimed the title of the longest running #1 Gospel single.

The star-studded event, which was attended by leading recording artists, songwriters and music industry notable, began with a moment of silence in remembrance of Michael Jackson and his music. James Fortune & FIYA dedicated his riveting performance at the award ceremony to the late King of Pop. A short montage highlighted the illustrious career of Michael Jackson while several award recipients and presenters mourned the great loss. When Alicia Keys accepted ASCAP's Golden Note Award, she thanked Michael for his legacy and said "He went and did from his heart as a genuine and good, blessed artist."

Mary Mary Makes Big Presence at BET Awards

2009-06-30T18:58:00.000-07:00

Besides all eyes being glued to the special dedications in memory of the late King of Pop Michael Jackson on June 28's airing of the BET Awards, gospel music lovers were treated with a special stage performance from gospel duo Mary Mary. The two were recently added to the line-up of performers for the award show held at Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. They performed their latest radio hit, "God in Me," which included a cameo appearance from actress and rap diva Queen Latifah who filled in for an absent Kierra Sheard.

The L.A. Times covered the events' performances and had this to say about Mary Mary's performance:

Mary Mary: “God in Me.”Foxx introduces Mary Mary as “the new Queens of Gospel,” but they sound an awful lot like standard run-of-the-mill queens of R&B. With a skittering electronic beat, it’s mid-tempo R&B with a smattering of hip-hop. A midpoint appearance from Queen Latifah picks things up, but not by much. C

Mary Mary also took home the BET Best Gospel Artist award. The nominees in that category included Regina Belle, Shirley Caesar, Smokie Norful and Trin-i-tee 5:7.

Gospel Greats Pay Tribute to Obama

2009-06-24T21:19:00.000-07:00

Still in celebration mode, the gospel music community proceeds in releasing A Gospel Tribute to President Barack Obama. Distributed through Central South Distribution, the compilation contains new and original material from a heavyweight assortment of artists including GRAMMY-award winner Israel Houghton, Marvin L. Winans, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, pop/blue-eyed soul crooner Michael McDonald, Dottie Peoples, Micah Stampley, Donnie McClurkin and Kelly Price. The lead single, "This Is Your Cue" by Benita Washington, has already been serviced to gospel radio and is making strong strides on the radio charts. The album, slated for a June 9th nationwide release, is currently available for purchase via the Internet at http://www.ilovegospelmusic.com/.

The gospel tribute isn't the first of its kind that pays respect to this historical chapter in American history. Though tons of records and musical tributes have been released since the 2008 presidential campaign in support of Obama, the Hidden Beach collection Change Is Now: Renewing America's Promise stands out as the strongest. The collection, which contains excerpts from Obama's landmark speeches, features performances from Maroon 5, will.i.am, James Taylor, India.Arie, BeBe Winans, Sheryl Crow, Melissa Etheridge, Robin Thicke, Jennifer Hudson and Stevie Wonder with "All About Love Again" (which was performed on American Idol and Ellen). This special collection is available for purchase at: http://www.hiddenbeach.com/love.

View the cute concept video of Stevie Wonder's "All About the Love" from the Change Is Now compilation.

[HAIL TO THE CHIEF]

I Love Gospel Music [Official Site]
Hidden Beach Recordings: Change Is Now [Official Site]

Introducing J. Matt's Attic

2009-06-16T10:34:00.000-07:00

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - A new music-oriented blog, designed by PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com editor J. Matthew Cobb, was introduced this summer. J.MATT'S ATTIC is a portal into the vast music world, spanning decades of multiple music genres including R&B, soul, funk, jazz, disco, gospel and pop. "I felt it was time to introduce to my followers and friends another side of my music tastes," commented Cobb. "It's not all gospel for me - 24-7. There's a world of great music out there and I hope to spark curiosity in those who have never heard some of the great music I've experienced." Some of J.MATT'S ATTIC's features include easy clicks to listen to posted music mp3s which allows listeners to download songs to their computer for their listening pleasure. The blog plans to post new music - from a strong list of veterans and newcomers - and hopes to upload new content each day.

Since its debut in early June, the blog has already posted material from George Benson, Elliott Yamin, the Supremes, K.C & the Sunshine Band and jazz musician Bobbi Humphrey. This year, the blog plans to post additional coverage of Motown classics in celebration of Motown's 50th anniversary.

J. MATT'S ATTIC is just one of J. Matthew Cobb's ventures into mainstream music, since he recently joined forces with SoulTracks.com as a contributing writer. Cobb remains the chief editor of PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com and moderator of its blog, THE PRAYZE Report.

J. MATT'S ATTIC Link:
http://www.jmattsattic.blogspot.com

Oleta Adams Unplugged at PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com

2009-06-09T21:58:00.000-07:00

In 1990, she teased us with the pop hit "Get Here." Almost twenty years later, she is still here as she launches her new album Let's Stay Here on the world. With a background of music covering jazz, R&B and even gospel (with the 1997 GRAMMY-nominated Come Walk With Me project), Oleta Adams talks with PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com exclusively about her success, her marriage, the new album and her future plans in both mainstream and gospel music.

To read the two-part interview and to hear new music from her new album, click the following links: PART 1 and PART 2

[OLETA ADAMS UNPLUGGED]
Oleta Adams [Official Website]

Oleta Adams Unplugged [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]

Light Announces New CDs from Coko and Youthful Praise

2009-06-04T01:36:00.000-07:00

Light Records is prepping for new radio singles and new album releases for 2009 from Coko and Youthful Praise.

Coko, who released her gospel debut and her follow-up holiday project, is gearing up for The Winner in Me. The former lead singer of popular R&B trio SWV is getting big buzz from her first single, "Wait," and expects to make a bigger entrance on the gospel charts later this year on July 14. The album boasts a colorful line-up of special guests including Canton Jones, Kelly Price and Israel Houghton.

Youthful Praise, led by choir master JJ Hairston, is getting ready to release their sixth project Resting on His Promise on August 11. According to early reports, the half-gospel, half-worship offering hopes to merge both familiar styles of Youthful Praise into one project. Recorded earlier in March, the live recording boasted an incredible line-up of guests including Dorinda Clark-Cole, Myron Butler, Deon Kipping, Donnie McClurkin, Stephen Hurd, Bishop Eric McDaniel and Pastor Shirley Caesar. The title cut is already reaching radio and media outlets and is the official kick-off for the choir's national tour beginning this summer. Confirmed dates include performances in Newark, NJ, Cincinnati, OH, Knoxville, TN and Annapolis, MD.

[THE LIGHT IS ON]
Light Records [Official Website]
Coko's Place [Official Website]
Youthful Praise [Official Website]
Youthful Praise [MySpace]

Henry Panion and Kurt Carr Gets $75,000 from BCC

2009-05-18T01:11:00.000-07:00

Love come quick/Love come in a hurry/There are thieves
in the temple tonight. - Prince, "Thieves in the Temple"
from the SIGN O' THE TIMES album (1989)

Dr. Henry Panion III, who still serves as a professor and department head in music at the University of Birmingham (UAB), has played with a number of musical greats ranging from pop to R&B to gospel. And when he's not waving his baton over a super symphony, he's orchestrating music set to another tune through his state-of-the-art music studio Audiostate 55 Entertainment, located in the heart of Birmingham, Ala. The forthcoming project from American Idol winner Ruben Studdard even boasts post-production credits at the newly-developed studio. So of course, it makes sense for the city of Birmingham, currently run by Mayor Larry Langford, to invest in Panion's future of music. And they did. Strangely, the investment smells like it went way beyond the expected limit.

In Black & White (Issue Number 369, May 14), a popular local paper, they recalled some of the major requests made for funding approved by the Birmingham City Council. On April 14, Item 42 points to a colossal offering of $75,000 to Audiostate 55 Entertainment to "provide two performances featuring Kurt Carr, Kurt Carr Singers, and a 150-voice choir made up of singers from Birmingham (actually it was a church choir named Faith Chapel Christian Center Choir that provided the background singing) on May 1 and 2, 2009." The event in question was the highly-publicized Gospel Goes Classical II event held at the Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center; located on the campus of the University of Birmingham (UAB).

As the report unfolds, further logistics concerning the allotted donation include "necessary arrangements for the concert performances, including transportation, provide recognition of the City's sponsorship for events, and shall involve Birmingham's student-age citizens at entry level behind-the-scenes creative, technical and marketing activities."

With the global economy reaching a nasty sour note in today's news headlines and the city of Birmingham facing its own share of grim reports including an upcoming trial for the embattled mayor later on this year, $75,000 for an event so small smells suspicious. Considering Kurt Carr's consistent visits to the city over the last couple of years by playing at the annual City Stages festival in 2007 and 2006 and recently hosting a music workshop at a local church earlier this year, there is no way possible that Kurt Carr and his ensemble needed $75,000 for their performances.

If this was a non-profit organization, things would have been a bit more understandable. But to better interpret this sketchy scenario, you also have to question why was this event a ticketed event. Tickets were $25-$45 dollars, according to the Birmingham News. The event was also recorded, like its predecessor Gospel Goes Classical, and will hopefully be released as an album if he can reach a contract agreement with the artists and their respected labels of whom participated. A CD amounts to record sales and profits, which according to Panion, is "like icing on the cake."

Icing on the cake? Hmmm, smells like a party.

In 2007, Panion released Gospel Goes Classical, featuring performances from Juanita Bynum and Jonathan Butler, which went on to become a best-seller on both the gospel and classical charts.

Panion's intentions may be well, but it is hard to understand the scope of such a bewildering offering the size of $75,000. Surely Kurt Carr's honorarium doesn't come close to $10,000...maybe $2,000. So where did all that money go? You do the math.

Guess Prince was right. It made sense in 1989, and it makes sense in 2009....there are indeed "thieves in the temple tonight."

[$$$...SOME PEOPLE REALLY NEED IT]
UAB's Panion follows up popular concert that produced best-selling CD [Birmingham News]

Gospel Goes Classical II [Official Website]
Wrong notes alleged at Gospel Goes Classical [Courthouse News]

Remembering Rev. Timothy Wright

2009-04-29T23:56:00.000-07:00

Originally posted on the Rev. Timothy Wright Online Memorial, April 29, 2009

Rev. Milton Biggham best described him during his introduction on the Grammy-nominated Been There, Done That project in 1995. It was probably the first time Rev. Timothy Wright was ever called on a publicly as the "Godfather of Gospel," but the description and momentous honor fit him perfectly. For over forty years, Rev. Wright had created a sound all together his own - chiseled into a mold designed after the Brooklyn sound along with the urban dynamics of George Clinton’s funk and the soulful, raw energies of James Cleveland’s gospel. With gospel forefathers Rev. Isaac Douglas, Bishop F.D. Washington and the legendary Institutional Radio Choir providing the soundtrack for his upbringing, Rev. Wright began his musical career by establishing the Timothy Wright Concert Choir in 1976. The move afforded Wright the opportunity to record for a host of music labels including Tomato and Atlanta International Records in the 1980s. By this time, Wright had already developed a strong following for his workshop-friendly and melodic-driven selections along with his exuberant passion during his moments of ministry.

Wright would go on to record several projects for AIR before his groundbreaking career move to Savoy in 1988. His Savoy debut, Who’s On the Lord’s Side, along with his Myrna Summers collaboration (We’re Going to Make It) exposed Wright’s craft and musical abilities to an even larger audience and also earned him his first Grammy nomination and a Stellar Award. The next set of albums felt as if Wright was on an international tour staged with mammoth live recordings. Using a footnote from the handbook of Rev. James Cleveland, Wright brought together some of the world’s best choirs and singers to join with him on his newborn compositions. From Cincinnati’s B/J Mass Choir on the Grammy-nominated Been There Done That album to the Chicago Interdenominational Mass Choir (I’m Glad About It) to the London Fellowship Choir (Live in London) who also shared the stage with gospel luminaries Bruce Parham and LaShun Pace, Rev. Wright was sure to make an impact on the world by using some of the best trained and unexposed emerging groups to hit the gospel scene. But none of his past discoveries could match the greatness of his most prized achievement: the New York Fellowship Mass Choir.

After gaining inspiration in Indianapolis, Indiana after attending the 1993 Gospel Music Workshop of America, Rev. Wright sat down with Savoy Records’ president Rev. Milton Biggham to see if he could duplicate the same spirit of unity and brotherhood exemplified in 1,000+ voice choir of the 25,000 member convention using the community and professional choirs of New York. The task was sure to be tedious, especially since the city of New York had not quite experienced a large conglomerate of singers in gospel music. But Rev. Wright made it all possible with his breathtaking 1994 Savoy recording Come Thou Almighty King. The album, recorded at featuring a stellar set of choirs and groups that included Hezekiah Walker’s Love Fellowship (Crusade) Choir, Donnie McClurkin’s New York Restoration Choir, Albert Jamison’s Triboro Mass Choir, Robert Lowe’s Queens Community Choir, James Hall’s Worship and Praise and groups led by David Bratton, Eric McDaniel, Jae Nixon and Roger Hambrick. The spirit of unity floated like a butterfly through song selections like “Come Thou Almighty King,” the energetic “We Bless Your Name,” the heartfelt ballad “When We Reach That Wonderful Place” and David Bratton’s magnum opus “Revelations I.” What felt like a one-time event shocked the gospel community once again as the choir, larger than ever, united for a ten-year anniversary in 2004. This time, the album was flooding with superstar talent including Keith "Wonderboy" Johnson, Dottie Peoples, Hezekiah Walker, Valerie Boyd, James Hall, Kervy Brown, Danny Eason and Maurette Brown-Clark. The choir was even featured on Wright’s last two recordings: Let’s Celebrate (He Is Risen) and Jesus Jesus Jesus.

The song "Who's On the Lord's Side" also remains a benchmark in Rev. Wright's forty-year music career. In 1992, it was covered by CCM rock band Petra on their Grammy-award winning and best-selling Unseen Power album. R&B/soul legend Patti LaBelle also revived the song twice: on her PBS' Going Home to Gospel special in 1991 and on her MCA live recording, Live! One Night Only in 1998.

While traveling home after a church convention in July 2008, tragedy struck when Rev. Wright was involved in a fatal car accident caused by a drunk wrong-way driver. The accident silenced the lives of his wife, Betty, and his 14-year old grandson, D.J. Wright was injured and survived the devastating wreck. Rumors of his death began to plague the message boards, but were quickly diminished when Wright began the fight of his life while going through a number of surgeries and entering rehabilitation at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA. Due to failing health caused by the accident’s injuries, Rev. Wright, the beloved gospel singer, pastor and songwriter, succumbed to this life on April 23, 2009. He was 61.

Important Notes:
On Episode 15 of FOX's hit police drama New York Undercover (aired Jan. 19,1995), Rev. Timothy Wright and members of the New York Fellowship Mass Choir made a guest appearance on singing "Trouble Don't Last Always."

Rev. Wright was nominated twice for Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album at the Grammys for Come Thou Almighty King and Been There Done That.

He served as pastor of the Grace Tabernacle Christian Center COGIC in Brooklyn, NY until the car crash on July 4, 2009.

On May 5, 2009, Malaco Records, who also currently owns the masters to the AIR Gospel catalog, plans to release a double-disc compilation, The Godfather of Gospel, containing eighteen tracks in all from Rev. Wright's career. Hit songs will include "Come Thou Almighty King," "Been There Done That," "Trouble Don't Last Always," "For the Rest Of My Life," "Who's On the Lord's Side" and "We're Going to Make It."

Memorial and funeral services for Rev. Wright are as follows:

VIEWINGS:
Sat. May 2nd, 12-8pm & Sun. May 3rd, 1-5pm
Grace Tabernacle 1745 Pacific Street
Brooklyn NY 11213

MUSICAL
Sun May 3rd, 7pm
Pilgrim Church
1338-44 Broadway
Brooklyn NY 11221
Bishop Albert Jamison, pastor

HOME GOING SERVICE
Monday, May 4, 2009 at 10AM
Pilgrim Church
1338-44 Broadway
Brooklyn NY 11221
Bishop Roy E. Brown, Pastor

[WRIGHT OF PASSAGE]

Timothy Wright Online Memorial [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]

Rev. Timothy Wright on MySpace [MySpace]

CD Pre-Order: The Godfather of Gospel [Malaco Records]

Church mourns 'music minister' Rev. Timothy Wright [Daily News Brooklyn]

Timothy Wright, famed NY gospel singer, dies at 61 [AP]

106 & Gospel Cancelled

2009-04-20T11:06:00.000-07:00

We kind of saw it coming.

Originally hearld as cable's answer to reaching the hip-hop community with gospel, BET officially announced their decision to cancel 106 & Gospel; sighting poor ratings to be the show's determining fate.

According to Black Voices guru Jawn Murray, the show was nixed from BET's lineup due to its horrific airtime on Sunday at 12 noon - a time when most of their target audience were likely to be at church.

The show, which featured hosts Angel Taylor (Trin-i-tee 5:7) and Jor'el Quinn (21:03) and guest appearances from Tye Tribbett and Kierra Sheard, became gospel music's golden token in helping reach the hip-hop community and newer audiences when it was announced to be the spin-off of the urban-focused, video countdown show 106 & PARK; which airs on weekdays and is still hearld as BET's #1 show in ratings (according to Wikipedia at current press time).

EJ Gaines, of popular gospel blog Gospel Pundit, began an online protest over the outrage of the show's cancellation by posting a petition to keep the show alive. After securing more than 1,600 signatures, BET released an official press statement from executive vice-president Stephen Hill in response to the grassroots campaign. The statement mentioned they "will continue to create new and exciting shows to entertain our audience. However, at times we must also face the hard task of making tough programming decisions, as in the case of 106 & GOSPEL, which was recently cancelled."

To see the 106 & GOSPEL online petition, click here.

[106 & NIX]

BET'S 106 & GOSPEL Cancelled [EURweb.com]

BET Bids Bye-Bye to '106 & Park' Spin-off [AOL Black Voices]

BET's Response to the Petition to Save 106 & Gospel [GospelPundit.com]

Save 106 & Gospel [PetitionSpot.com]

Shirley Caesar Rocks Hall of Fame

2009-04-14T13:34:00.000-07:00

Nashville, TN - It has long been noted that Rock and Roll has its roots in Gospel music, so it was only fitting that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame kicked off their 2009 Induction Week by honoring Pastor Shirley Caesar with the first annual “Rock My Soul” concert. The award was presented to Shirley Caesar Sunday March 29th in recognition of her contributions as “an artist who uplifts and enlightens many, using her gift of music and ministry.”

The sold-out "Rock My Soul" show at Cleveland Ohio’s Playhouse Square's Allen Theatre included performances by artists J. Moss and Richard Smallwood & Vision as well as tributes from city officials and artists who had gathered to celebrate Pastor Caesar and her over 40 year ministry. As the headliner, Shirley Caesar completed the evening of celebration with the kind of powerful gospel performance that has made her an icon.

Mayor Frank G.Jackson delivered a proclamation highlighting her contributions to gospel music and its affect on the rock and roll movement. The program progressed with tributes by local aggregations; “The Word” Church and the Antioch Baptist Church choir featuring Helen Turner-Thompson, along with other local performers Tyniece J. and Company, and Stormy Cleveland.

With more the than 2,100 attendees on their feet for most of the evening, those less familiar with gospel music were drawn in by the praise and worship experience. When they thought it couldn’t get any better gospel music mainstay Richard Smallwood took the stage and sang “Lord, you are the source of my strength.” J. Moss then followed with an acappella rendition of Caesar’s “No Charge”. The soul-stirring song, originally recorded in 1983 by Caesar, continues to garner an up roaring of praise.

As Caesar was preparing to take the stage, greeted with a standing ovation, she exclaimed: “This is the day the Lord has made and I am going to rejoice.” Along with her coveted Caesar Singers she used the stage as a canvas to paint a praise-filled picture; dancing and singing many of her hit songs from the past 40 years.

The “Rock My Soul” tribute is a celebration of the roots of rock and roll music. “While this is the first year for this event, it is our hope that it will be an annual, community-wide celebration honoring rock and roll music’s gospel roots and incredible legacy of Cleveland churches,” shares Terry Stewart, President and CEO of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum.

Photos Credits: Scott Shaw (The Plain Dealer) and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame & Museum

[ROCKIN' ROBIN]
Light Records [Official Website]

Thousands sing praises of gospel music, Hall of Famer Shirley Caesar [Plain Dealer]

Pop Winans (1934-2009)

2009-04-09T00:23:00.000-07:00

The patriarch of the Winans dynasty, David "Pop" Winans passed away "at a hospice center in Nashville, TN, with his wife at his bedside" on April 8, 2009 at the age of 74; according to the Detroit Free Press. He moved to Nashville to be close to several of his children after suffering a series of strokes and a mild heart attack in October 2008.

Known for being the father of 10 children, who went on to become outstanding recording artists in the field of gospel music, "Pop" recorded two albums along with his wife, Delores, as Mom & Pop Winans on the Sparrow label and recorded a solo project, Uncensored; which was nominated for a Grammy for Best Traditional Gospel Album in 2000. Gospel remained strong to Pop Winans and can be traced all the way back to 1949 where he met with his wife, Delores, while singing with the legendary Lucille Lemon Gospel Chorus, which at one time was led by the late James Cleveland.

Winans also was best remembered for his moving vocal performance on Carlton Pearson's Live at Azusa 2 project (Warner Alliance) when he stormed through a moving remake of Sister Rosetta Tharpe's "This Train." In his latter years, he was featured on "Praise the Lord" programs with his wife on the Trinity Broadcasting Network.

“He was called Pop because that’s what he was, a father figure to all of us,” said Karen Clark Sheard, member of the famed Clark Sisters. “He was a man we all looked up to.”

Funeral arrangements for Pop Winans are scheduled to take place on Tuesday and Wednesday at Perfecting Church in Detroit, MI, where his son, Marvin L. Winans, serves as pastor.

[IN MEMORY OF POP]

Gospel giant Pop Winans dies [Detroit Free Press]
Gospel great Pop Winans dies [Tennessean.com]

2009 Recommendations...So Far

2009-04-08T22:01:00.000-07:00

Okay, there's been a load of new album releases to hit the markets in the last few weeks and even though I cannot review everything that comes out, I decided to leave a few remarks and comments about a few mentions here at the PRAYZE Report. And because I am an avid lover of my soul and R&B (distant cousins of gospel) and a little bit of everything else, I'm going to bring them to attention here as well.

Soul/R&B

Tortured Soul
Did You Miss Me
(TSCT Records/Columbia)

I was brought to attention to this group when they added me as a friend on MySpace. I never heard of them before, and just like most groups and artists that add you on those online network communities, I didn't pay them much attention. But I decided to check them out before I added them and was instantly hooked to their soulful stew of house and R&B. They even bring together the classic Motown percussion sounds on the Hitsville title track. "Did You Miss Me" brightens up with the "Baby Love" handclaps and reminiscent guitar drives along with the cool, sexy vocals of Chrisitan Urich. It's almost like a Robin Thicke/John Legend (a la Once Again) but with a glorious polished sound that blends the guitar work of Chic and the just-as-fascinating Euro/Italio synth disco sounds of Change. "In My Fantasy" sweetly blends disco joys into their '80s galactic echoes. Dance floors should light up on their upbeat offerings, which dominate the course of the project. Other standouts include "Special Lady," the clever '80s vibes of the instrumental "In Motion" and the soft lounge/dance strobes of "Time to Make Up Your Mind." If you are fans of the rich soul of House producers Masters at Work and you love the mix of live instrumentation with clever electronic advancements, you won't have a problem at all digging into this mesmerizing musical experience. Definitely one of the most creative works in dance-meet-soul music since Chic's Risque'. Did You Miss Me must be really making noise since it's practically hard to find online and in US stores. Most online stores are sold out. Good look finding a hard copy.

And what are others saying:
"It is a disc that gets better with each listening, as both the group's musicianship and the natural irresistibly of the songs provide 2009's first great gift to the club scene...and to quite a few home stereos too." - SoulTracks.com

"Tortured Soul's way of working within a house learned club ready vibe while still bringing it out into more of song based, kind of blue eyed soul realm is pretty much unrivaled -- and this set is a masterful example." - Dusty Groove America

Link: http://tstcrecords.com/press.htm

Various Artists
Now That's What I Call Motown
(Universal/EMI/Sony/Motown)

Jamming the best of Motown into one disc is probably the hardest musical task to the human mind, but the folks at Universal-EMI try their hardest to make the event possible for their ever-popular Now series. And why not, Now has delivered compilations for almost ever genre and music style possible since its creation. And since the musical legacy of Motown has become the greatest and most celebrated chapter in the history of America's 20th century music, giving birth to music legends like Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye and the Temptations, why not give them a piece of the Now franchise. In time for the 50th anniversary of Motown's first hit "Money (That's What I Want)" from Barrett Strong, this compilation neatly packages 25 of Motown's best from the Marvelettes "Please Mr. Postman" to Rick James' "Super Freak" from the 1981 LP Street Songs. With only 90 minutes, it's extremely difficult to smash Motown's discography into an introductory CD, but this one is probably the best place to start and you get more bang for your buck. Sure, people will complain when they see only three Holland/Dozier/Holland selections on board and may even quibble when they see certain Motown stars (Spinners, Thelma Houston, Boyz II Men, Debarge, a solo Lionel Richie) omitted from the super list, but what is presented is probably the very best singles one can recall firstly from the Motown library. Marvin Gaye's pivotal "What's Going On" and "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" are historic and are represented, along with the Temps' "My Girl" and Mary Wells' "My Guy" (both penned by Smokey Robinson). Rounding out the set are clever offerings like Diana Ross' "Upside Down," the highly-forgotten Edwin Starr protest song 'War," Gladys Knight's "Neither One of Us" and the Jackson 5's "I Want You Back." If you just need one disc to introduce the Motown story, look no further.

Now That's What I Call Motown! landed at #13 on the Billboard 200 in January 2009.

Kudos to ThinkTank Marketing.

And what are others saying:
"...this volume of the Now series is one of many decent single-disc introductions to the label." - AllMusic.com

Gospel

Israel Houghton
The Power of One
(Integrity Music/Colubmia)

Don't get it twisted, this is not his first solo project. But judging from the potency of the cuts offered on The Power of One, this remains his best. Energetic funk inspired from Prince's hymnal captures the grooves of "Saved By Grace," while the upbeat reggae/hip-hop bounce of "Just Wanna Say" sounds as big as anything Houghton has ever put out, even with New Breed. The Mary Mary collaboration on "Every Prayer" is the album's definite ballad, while Houghton submerges into newer and comfortable styles with the reggae-styled "Surely Goodness," the pop-friendly vibes of "Moving Forward" and the U2/John Mayer-tinged "Sing (Redemption's Song)." Amazingly, there's more gospel to chew on this release...even if the worship offerings are fewer on this round. The lyrics, still strong in their design, are more inspirational and universal, which might give Houghton an advantage on mainstream radio. With these grooves and innovative breaks into Houghton's worship system, it's hard to deny his place in today's music scene.

I'm still wrestling with Integrity Music's failure of sending me a press kit or CD for review. When it comes to Israel & New Breed, "I gitz no love."

The Power of One debuted at #1 on both Christian Albums and Gospel Albums charts and also #34 on the Billboard 200.

To read the PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com album review, click here: http://www.prayzehymnonline.com/reviews_israelhoughton01.html

And what are others saying:
"When music and musicianship are this worshipful, virtuoso, and varied, it's easy to get caught up, kick back, and join the praise." - ChristianityToday.com

[MORE INTO RECOMMENDATIONS]
Tortured Soul [Press]
Tortured Soul [MySpace.com]

Motown 50 [Official Website]
Israel Houghton - The Power of One: Album Review [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]

Donnie McClurkin Is Tired of Big Pimpin' Preachers

2009-03-30T10:32:00.000-07:00

Finally...someone speaks about the over excess of super indulgent preacher lifestyles.

Donnie McClurkin, best-selling gospel singer, songwriter and a pastor himself, spoke with Essence in an article last week about the fancy opulent lifestyles of the church's rich and famous and candidly expressed his grief about their unwise choices.

"As pastors, we have to link arms and have bi-partisanships. The [Black] church has always been the face of the community. Now we have to take on the responsibility of becoming true servants to the people from all walks of life. I get so mad when I see these pimpin' preachers driving Rolls-Royces, Bentleys, flying around in their private jets, and making it seem like prosperity and money is the way of God when 90 percent of your congregation is on Section 8 or can't figure out how they are going to keep their lights on or feed their kids. I'm big on perception, and what would it look like for me to live so lavishly if the people in my church are struggling?”

This seems to be a popular matter on blogs and messages boards (see the Mo'Kelly Report and Firstlovechristian.com) lately as the lifestyles of Juanita Bynum and more recent Pastor Jamal Harrison-Bryant (of Baltimore, MD) are now causing a fixed blog sensation with the faith community. And while McClurkin has made his share of big bucks for his chart-topping albums, he goes on the record in the article to state that he doesn't receive "a dime" from the church he started eight years ago.

"I have one vehicle and it's not a Mercedes, it's a Lincoln Navigator. I don't receive a dime—not an Abraham Lincoln copper coin—and haven't for the last seven-and-a-half years because I'm okay.”

With the recent announcement of GM Motors CEO Rick Wagoner being forced to resign due to their failure to re-strategize the company in the face of a sour economy, it is probably time for the big pimpin' preachers to retire their lavish lifestyles and face reality. The super deluxe offerings is soon to run dry.

McClurkin is prepared to release his upcoming album, We All Are One (Live in Detroit); expected to hit stores March 31, 2009.

[WE FALL DOWN SOME MORE]
Donnie McClurkin Disgusted with Pastoral Excesses [GospelToday.com]

Freebies with Donnie McClurkin's Pre-Order from Verity [PRAYZE Report]

News: BeBe Winans, Ken Cook, Hawkins Family, Idol

2009-03-19T22:43:00.000-07:00

After excessive rounds of media coverage on the BeBe Winans' allegations of assault on his ex-wife, his publicist responded in a press release with these words: "Mr. Winans will not participate in any public display that may affect his children’s well being, but will instead use through the proper judicial channels to insure that his rights as a father are protected.” The gospel singer was charged with misdemeanor domestic assault after a dispute with his ex-wife, Debra Winans, in Nashville. An arrest warrant was filed on Wednesday last week and he was later released from the Davidson County jail Thursday after posting a $1,000 bond. Winans has stated through a previous statement from his publicist, also posted on his website, that "the allegations are inconsistent with my character."
Ken Cook, manager of national promotions for EMI Gospel, passed away on Monday, March 16, 2009 at Vanderbilt Medical Center in Nashville, TN, after a long bout with colon cancer. He was 37 years of age. The gospel executive, who previously worked for Malaco and Sony Records, was influential for pushing gospel radio to expand airplay for hit singles including Mary Mary's "Heaven" and Tye Tribbett's "Victory." His more recent work surrounded projects that included Myron Butler, Kierra Sheard and Jason Champion. Cook, who is survived by his wife, Dolli, will be laid to rest on Friday, March 20 at 10 a.m. Funeral services take place at New Life COGIC in Montgomery, Ala.
The legendary Hawkins Family (which included Walter Hawkins, Lynette Hawkins-Stephens, Edwin Hawkins and Lady Tramaine Hawkins) celebrated in song during a spectacular reunion concert in Richmond, VA. They went through songs including "Special Gift," "Changed," "What Is This," "Marvelous," "Oh, Happy Day" and "When the Battle Is Over." In the audience was Donnie McClurkin (who also joined the family on stage) and Richard Smallwood. According to a review posted by Tramaine Hawkins on her MySpace page from super fan Jared Sawyers, he stated that "Walter also announced to the crowd that this was his first time away from home since he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer last September." Our prayers and respects go out to Walter and to the First Family of Gospel. From the success of the concert, there is no word if a reunion tour will develop for the near future.

American Idol will be gearing up for Motown madness beginning next week as the show's top finalists select songs from the vast catalog of Motown Records; who celebrates 50 years of music this year. Smokey Robinson and American Idol winner Ruben Studdard, who drops his new album Love IS on May 19, will perform on Thursday evening. Because of an important public address from President Barack Obama set to air on Tuesday next week, the show will instead air on Wednesday and Thursday on FOX.
Feel free to listen to Ruben Studdard's new song, "Together," produced by Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis by clicking here.

J Matt Talks About Gamble & Huff at SoulMusic.com

2009-03-17T00:39:00.001-07:00

Gospel music isn't the only music genre that peaks my attention. Raised on the good stuff from my mom -n- pop's records, I found myself studying, learning and exposing myself to musical styles and genres consisting of pop, soul, R&B, disco, jazz and rock.

This month, I contributed an appreciation article to David Nathan's SoulMusic.com on the rich and enduring legacy of one of the greatest tag-team contributors to the soul music kingdom: Kenneth Gamble & Leon A. Huff. Their dynamic and creative forces drove the legendary Philadelphia International Records - one of the greatest black music labels of all time - to the top of the charts and opened doors for dozens of great music acts including Teddy Pendergrass, Patti LaBelle, Bunny Sigler (talented songwriter who has just recently recorded a gospel album), the O'Jays, the Intruders, Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, M.F.S.B. and Billy Paul. But beyond their smart entrepreneur skills, their work as a songwriter duo helped define the blueprint of '70s soul music and even pioneered what most music historians call the pulse of the disco movement. With the accompanying talented rhythm, string and horn sections of M.F.S.B., Gamble & Huff pumped out dozens of R&B and pop hit singles that include "Back Stabbers," "Only the Strong Survive," "Close the Door," "For the Love of Money," "When Will I See You Again, "The Love I Lost," "Love Train," and "If You Don't Love Me By Now." The list goes on and on and on.

The appreciation article on Gamble & Huff can be viewed at SoulMusic.com at:
http://soulmusic.com/gahueyofe.html

SoulMusic.com is one of the coolest websites focused on preserving the rich heritage and legacy of R&B and soul music. And I'm glad to be one of the fortunate ones to make such a contribution to their popular database of history. David Nathan (a.k.a. "British Ambassador of Soul), for those who may not know, is a stellar writer, music historian and has written wonderful liner notes for countless compilations and re-issues for Luther Vandross, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly and Aretha Franklin, just to name a few.

[TALKIN' BOUT SOUL MUSIC]
Gamble & Huff Express Yourself Feature [SoulMusic.com]
SoulMusic.com [Official Website]

Freebies with Donnie McClurkin's Pre-Order from Verity

2009-03-15T11:17:00.000-07:00

Pre-order Donnie McClurkin's WE ALL ARE ONE (Live in Detroit) NOW for just $9.99 and get a free poster and free instant download of "Trusting In You"! Pre-order at http://www.verityrecords.com/

Promotion runs untill March 30th! Be sure to check out "Wait On The Lord", featuring gospel powerhouse Karen Clark-Sheard.

Listen to the song here!

Wait On The Lord (AAC, Streaming, 128k, Audio)http://release.theplatform.com/content.select?pid=yZy2noYF0XOmQiS3ERkg7ytv7_8AKRsf&UserName=Unknown
Wait On The Lord (MP3, Streaming, 192k, Audio) http://release.theplatform.com/content.select?pid=s5hOJYvcvTXzeoqCzYxtoHu30LIcKGbX&UserName=Unknown

“Whatever I have, I offer to the Lord, and whatever He wants to do with it, He does.” This is Donnie McClurkin’s approach to making music.

McClurkin’s smash releases have brought home a trophy case full of awards which includes: 2007 Trumpet Award; two (2) Grammy Awards, Best Traditional Gospel Album- Psalms, Hymns & Spiritual Songs (2006), Best Soul Contemporary Gospel Album- Again (2004); NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Gospel Artist (2004), a BET Award (2001), a (2002) Soul Train Music Award and a number of Dove and Stellar Awards. His upcoming CD – WE ALL ARE ONE (Live In Detroit), his 4th for Verity Gospel Music Group, is sure to continue this trend.

Recorded at Straight Gate International Church in Detroit , the set features Karen Clark Sheard of The Clark Sisters on the first single “Wait On The Lord.” Other tracks include “Choose to Be Dancing,” “When You Love” featuring Mary Mary and Cece Winans; “Trusting In You” and more.

McClurkin’s television appearances are a mixture of performances on shows like Good Morning America, CBS Saturday Early Show, The View, Essence Awards, BET Awards, Trumpet Awards, UNCF: Evening of the Stars, Extra! TV Guide Channel, and cameos on sitcoms such as UPN’s “Girlfriends”, “The Parkers” and Paramount Studio’s award winning film “The Fighting Temptation” starring Cuba Gooding, Jr. and Beyonce Knowles. He has been featured in USA Today, New York Times, Essence Magazine, Ebony & Jet Magazine, Billboard, Daily Variety and Hollywood Reporter and many others. Still with all the fame and acclaim he has accrued, McClurkin’s sights for posterity are set on things far greater than material gain.

McClurkin served as an assistant to Pastor Marvin Winans at Detroit’s Perfecting Church for over a decade; he was ordained and sent out by Winans in 2001 to establish Perfecting Faith Church , in Freeport , New York . After overcoming an abusive childhood McClurkin was compelled to share his story with others in his book, “Eternal Victim/Eternal Victor! As a teen he was drawn to street evangelism and prisons; his evangelistic approach and passion to minister to people are evident whenever he’s before an audience. Whether it is on Sunday mornings or in a large arena, his mission is to reach people with the good news of the gospel. “As much as I love music and singing, more now than ever before, I feel my greatest strengths and calling lie in pastoral ministry. It’s my very existence and my greatest joy,” said McClurkin.

When asked what message he wants his life to convey, McClurkin says, “I hope people will be able to say that I really had a true relationship with God,” he concluded. “Not only did I sing it, but my very life exemplified it…no façade or hypocrisy. When I was wrong, I was wrong, but I took blame rather than allow holiness to appear to be some fabricated way of life. I want that people will not have seen me, but rather seen that this is what a relationship with Jesus is like and I would hope it could be said that holiness was what I lived, and what I passed on to the next generation, and the next.”

[MADE TO PRE-ORDER]
Pre-Order Donnie McClurkin's We All Are One for $9.99 Promotion [Verity Records]

Wait on the Lord [AAC, Streaming]
Wait on the Lord [MP3 Streaming]

BeBe Gets Physical

2009-03-13T11:18:00.000-07:00

Move over Chris Brown, you got some major competition now.

For gospel music lovers, this isn't the news we like to report, but it's news anyway. BeBe Winans is now the buzz on blogs for "allegedly pushing his ex-wife to the ground during an argument last month.;" according to pop blog Smoking Gun. Within the court filing, Winans, 45, and his former spouse got into a "verbal altercation" on February 13 about "custody issues dealing with their children." Winans was arrested for a misdemeanor domestic assault charge and was held briefly in the Davidson County Jail before posting a $1000 bond.

The incident went under the radar - until now. And the gospel community is now at a stand still. In the wake of Chris Brown's abusive tirade on singer pop star Rhianna and the commotion surrounding their careers, BeBe Winans is currently serving as a co-host and judge of BET's Sunday Best; now in its second season. Not sure if he's going to remain in that seat since protesters demanded Chris Brown be removed from the list of nominees at this year's Teen Choice Awards. They may call on the same actions from Winans.

And even bigger worries are bound to emerge: BeBe & CeCe Winans have a reunion album they are preparing to drop later this year. Surely this issue will disappear from the headlines, but not from the minds of those that cherished BeBe's healthy, wholesome, father-like image. As one colleague told the staff at PRAYZEHYMN today, "Sunday Best has become Sunday Worst."

[BEBE MAKES A BOO-BOO]
Gospel Star BeBe Winans Arrested for Assault [Sandra Rose]
Gospel Star In Assault Rap [The Smoking Gun]
BeBe Winans's Former Wive Talks About Assault [HelloBeautiful.com]

March Madness in Alabama Music

2009-03-08T12:26:00.000-07:00

Alabama has always had strong music roots, whether the world noticed it or not. And the sheer thought of American Idol winners and runner-ups including Ruben Studdard, Taylor Hicks and Bo Bice is just another proud moment tucked in Alabama's rich heritage. It's such a relief that the Birmingham News is presenting a March Madness-styled tournament to find the No. 1 music icon that best represents the state. And boy, is there a rich list of selections to filter through. From the great jazz/pop crooner Nat King Cole to honkey-tonk pioneer Hank Williams, from jazz great Sun Ra to the dynamic soul legend Wilson Pickett, the offerings are a-plenty and cover a multitude of music genres; stretching from pop to gospel.

And out of the 64 seeds selected, the Birmingham News was gracious to put a good number of gospel legends through. And they are:

Birmingham native Dorothy Love Coates, also lead singer of the Original Gospel Harmonettes; who recorded a heap of gospel hits including "99 and a Half," "Get Away Jordan" and "That's Enough" and "You Can't Hurry God."

Ten time GRAMMY-Award winning pop/jazz/gospel sextet Take 6, who established their group at Oakwood College in Huntsville, Ala. Mervyn Warren, an original member, who has produced for Whitney Houston, Take 6, Quincy Jones, David Foster, Celine Dion, Brandy and Leann Rimes, was also born in Huntsville, Ala.

Vestal Goodman, a singer raised on the Southern Gospel tradition, sung with the Happy Goodmans. She enjoyed a healthy career singing with Bill & Gloria Gaither during their Homecoming celebrations.

The Blind Boys of Alabama, who started their career as students at the Alabama Institute for the Negro Blind in 1939, is a multiple GRAMMY-award winning quartet are driving forces in the traditional gospel genre and have recorded hits with Ben Harper, Aaron Neville, Mavis Staples, George Clinton and were even joined by Prince on state at a Knitting Factory show in 2008.

Other favorites in the list include the Temptations (former members Eddie Kendricks, Paul Williams, Melvin Franklin and, later, Dennis Edwards are all from Alabama) Stax artist Eddie Floyd (known for writing and recording "Knock on Wood"), Sun Records' founder Sam Phillips, the legendary Muscle Shoals Backing Band, jazz great Dinah Washington, Motown artist Martha Reeves, Lionel Richie & the Commodores, blind blues sensation Clarence Carter, country-rock band Alabama and Tony-Award winning actress Nell Carter.

If you are interested in voting for your favorite gospel star, or any one of these great heroes in the music world, you still have a little time left. Submit your vote for first-round picks by going to: http://blog.al.com/bn/madness. Should be a March Madness most Alabamaians won't forget.

[TREAT HOME ALABAMA]
Who's Your Number One? [Al..com]
Choose Alabama's Top Music Icon: Vote Now [Al.com]
Download Complete Bracket - [PDF]

Mister McCoy Just Can't Take the Heat

2009-03-07T21:03:00.001-08:00

While I am used to being in the hot seat, criticism is something that we all expect. Regardless if we are doing the best of our service or just lacking on a few accomplishments, we are met with pressure all the time. But the irony of the locals who celebrate their buddies and com padres is that while it is okay to attack others on their shortcomings and even their bloopers, you just can't point a finger at them when they end up on the hot seat.

Let's take a good long look at Mr. Brian McCoy. His personal home videos mainly feature Birmingham groups that are so dear to him (Arthur Beard & Elements of Worship, Chosen Generation, Prince Yelder). But he carefully screens the comments so that each piece of commentary reflects only good things and positive feedback from the public. I could okay that personal choice if only if McCoy reflected the same kind of fortitude with other groups and ministries. See, the old street saying rings aloud: "Be careful how you treat others, it just might come back to you and bite you in the ___." The same YouTube subscriber waddle on deep waters when he posts commentaries that criticize the recent BET Celebration of Gospel, men who sing like Karen Clark-Sheard and posting Chris Crocker parodies of embattled Birmingham, Ala. mayor Larry Langford. Goodness gracious, we have another pot calling a kettle black.

I was bugged by this episode while checking out a video of McCoy's local hero, Arthur Beard and his group. In a video titled Wonderful Is Your Name, where the group leaps into a 8-minute version of the Hezekiah Walker/Melvin Crispell mid-tempo jam bearing the same name, only positive feedback is featured. I wanted to toss up a joke...it was a light humor joke on how the director begins to jump up and down in a chaotic frenzy that looks more like Pokemon' doing jumping jacks [check it out at 3:11; video below]. The comment was never posted. That can be understandable since everyone can't take a joke. But McCoy easily pokes fun at other ministries and gospel singers and choirs...but it's totally unfair to talk about his own buddy system. How distasteful and...hmmm...hypocritical.

The hypocritical scale is tilted even more so when he writes that he "DO NOT TOLERATE CRITIQUES ON THIS CHANNEL! IF IT'S MINISTRY, NO CRITIQUING." Interesting, why is it okay for you to critique sharply and not your subscribers?

McCoy, here's some words of wisdom you may want to take heed to...don't talk about folk and their ministries aloud and you can't take the heat. Keep your thoughts to yourself. By the way, hasn't your pastor, the Rev. Gregory L. Clarke of New Hope Baptist Church (another person void of negative comments on his posts), been sentenced to 21 months in prison for "under reporting on his tax returns $110,000 in earned income during the years 2000, 2001 and 2002. I thought so.

[RESOURCES TO LOOK INTO]
Judge says convicted Birmingham pastor must go to prison Friday [Religion News Blog]

Judge says convicted pastor must go to prison Friday (CBN.com]

Three federal judges hear appeal in Rev. Clarke's tax fraud conviction [Al.com]

Gospel Today Bows Out from Printing

2009-03-01T22:15:00.000-08:00

With the difficulties of today's economy putting a blunt death sentence on major print publications (Life) and popular black magazines like Honey, Savoy and Emerge, its staggering blow has extended itself to the 20-year old gospel lifestyle magazine Gospel Today. Recently announcing their retirement from the printing press, Dr. Teresa Hairston, the mag's founder and overseer, remains optimistic about its future as they re-strategize their business into an online-only publication.

In a press statement, Hairston hopes to "share news, information, products and services regarding the urban Christian community with the global community. The world is moving to Internet, and many of our advertisers and subscribers are already there."

Currently distributing e-blasts and offering online subscriptions only for its GospelToday.com e-magazine, the Atlanta-based company is hoping to locate a print partner to provide subscribers a friendly print alternative of their online e-zine. Still, the problem rises over the idea that subscribers will have to pay for the online services.

The magazine made national headlines back in September 2008 when a certain issue was pulled from Lifeway Christian Stores, a chain of Southern Baptist-operated bookstores, due to its cover story featuring popular female pastors.

The magazine is also known within the gospel industry for establishing the Gospel Heritage Foundation; which oversees the annual Praise & Worship Conferences usually held in February.

[GOSPEL TODAY, GOSPEL YESTERDAY]

Gospel Today Magazine Suspends Printing [Black Voices]

Gospel Today Issue Pulled from Lifeway [PRAYZE Report]

Gospel Today [Official Website]

Win an Autographed Copy of Motown: The Complete No 1's Boxset

2009-02-23T13:16:00.001-08:00

Motown Records, founded by Berry Gordy in 1959, remains a glorious beacon in American history for help shape the advent of rhythm & blues and soul music into American pop culture. The historical relevance in its role in integrating pop music, being the first record label owned by an African-American and to primarily feature African-American artists who achieved crossover success, speaks volumes of the evolution of R&B music. When Smokey Robinson & the Miracles debuted with their number one R&B hit, "Shop Around," the world couldn't get enough of that Motown magic. And then came the careers of Diana Ross & the Supremes, the Temptations, Barrett Strong, Norman Whitfield, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Martha Reeves & the Vandellas, Tammi Terrell, the Four Tops, Mary Wells, Jr. Walker & the All-Stars, Holland-Dozier-Holland, Gladys Knight & the Pips, the Spinners, the Jackson 5, Rick James, the Commodores, Lionel Richie, Debarge and Boyz II Men.

To celebrate Motown's 50th anniversary, ArtistDirect.com is giving away a copy of the 10-disc box set Motown: The Complete Motown Number 1's, autographed by Berry Gordy himself! Featuring unforgettable classics from legends like Stevie Wonder, The Temptations and The Jackson 5, this retrospective is all you need for a complete homecoming to Hitsville USA. Now is your chance to win this piece of musical history signed by the father of Motown himself, Berry Gordy! Find out how to enter here!

[MOTOWN POWER]
Enter the Contest [ArtistDirect.com]
Motown 50 [Official Website]

2009's GRAMMY Rundown

2009-02-15T21:02:00.000-08:00

Did you really think that we were going to act as if the 51st Annual Grammy Awards never took place without saying a little something about it? Of course you didn't. Our coverage of the biggest annual award show for the last number of years remains one of our early highlights in the year and while a few recent Broadband issues have plagued my computer the last week, we have learned the prophetic quote to be true: "Where there's a will, there's a way." So here goes our report.

The super-long show, containing a run-through of performances from a string of genres, was quite bland on the surface. Not because great talent weren't available for the big day but the STAPLES Center's terrible echo problem, usually suitable for those oh-so-popular Laker games, isn't a good fit for big concert performances. Especially the ones with a big string/horn section and high volumes of heavy-amp guitars and "wamm-bamm" drum work. Well, that's what you got, one performance after the other. There were a few minor exclusions: the acoustic guitar accompanying performance of Sugarland's hit song and 2-time GRAMMY winning "Stay" and one of the evening's unforgettable moments featuring Jennifer Hudson's re-emergence back to the stage with an inspiring, tearful rendition and family dedication of "You Pulled Me Through." The song, with its gospel inflictions and string-laden background, was met with a standing ovation by the crowd. Hudson, whose mother, brother and nephew were killed in October, also won a GRAMMY for R&B Best Album and was announced by Whitney Houston. While her speech prior to the chant of the awards' winner was a bit uncomfortable - even leaving residue of the embattled Bobby Brown era, she looked graceful and as good as ever.

R&B vocal legend Al Green also graced the stage with pop/R&B superstar Justin Timberlake, who was a fill-in for the arrested and absent Chris Brown, and delivered a fitting tribute to the infamous Memphis soul sound. "Let''s Stay Together" was the choice of song - and naturally - Green stole the show. With that incredible energy and those super high notes, you just can't lose with the Reverend. While not aired, the Rev. picked up two wins for R&B Duo/Group (with John Legend on "Stay With Me (By the Sea)" and Traditional R&B Vocal Performance (also another duet with Anthony Hamilton). Both songs are from his highly-acclaimed Blue Note release Lay It Down. Carrie Underwood, the big American Idol superstar, delivered a loud and percussion-driven performance on "Last Name." Not quite country as it is funky, she still delivered an upbeat set that gave the night a little more sizzle. Other nice additions to the show included a touching tribute to the late Levi Stubbs with a Four Tops' medley featuring Jamie Foxx, Ne-Yo, surviving member Duke Fakir and Smokey Robinson, along with special tribute to the rich musical legacy of New Orleans. Robin Thicke graced the stage with Lil Wayne on "Tie My Hands," and the legendary jazz wizard Allen Toussaint delivers a big blast of funky jazz with Terence Blanchard and his Dirty Dozen Brass Band.

Probably the worst of the evening's performances, the Jonas Brothers aren't all that horrific as folk would imagine. Goodness, they aren't great singers, but you don't have to always have that great voice in rock/pop sometimes. Image usually does most of the work. But forgetting the lyrics to the Stevie Wonder monster smash "Superstition" with the legend himself playing behind you isn't a good idea. He may be blind, but even he had to laugh at the boys when they stumbled over their lines. And no one still can explain why Kanye West decided to go back to his '80s wardrobe to pull out a very outdated hairstyle and a sparkly jacket that may have been better off in Liberace's closet. The rap segment, featuring Lil Wayne, Jay-Z, Kanye and T.I., was all about competition. Each one trying to out beat the other. Rather than spit out some unity of the brotherhood, they took you back to the rap death matches of Brooklyn from hip-hop's early years. Too bad a super pregnant M.I.A. looked as if she was going to drop in one millisecond. And with the Rat Pack imagery and black-and-white cinematography, it looked more ghetto than classy. But I guess that's what make hip-hop records sale anyway...right?

But the evening wasn't all bad news - it was a definite return up the rating scale for CBS for "the biggest night in music." Miley and the Jonas Brothers left empty-handed, Coldplay and Adelle were also big winners, along with a surprising stunner from Robert Plant and Allison Krauss winning Record of the Year. The press were predicting Coldplay to sweep this year's event. Though it was close, most of the big albums and artists walked away with prizes.

In the gospel category, Kirk Franklin won two big awards earlier that evening for Best Contemporary R&B Gospel Album (The Fight of My Life) and his moving ballad "Help Me Believe" in the Best Gospel Song category. Definitely a song I recommended earlier as a single in my 2007 album review. The Blind Boys of Alabama won in the Traditional Gospel Album; knocking out Dorinda Clark-Cole, Deitrick Haddon, first-time nominee Bishop Charles E. Blake's West Angeles COGIC Mass Choir and the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. CeCe Winans and Mary Mary also took home trophies.

Biggest snub goes to Raphael Saddiq, who was nominated three times in the R&B categories for his brilliant and well-acclaimed The Way I See It album.

TIME Magazine covered the events' performances and rated each one individually. Some got mighty grades (Justin Timberlake/Al Green got a B+, Coldplay, Hudson, Underwood) and some not so wonderful (Kid Rock, Katy Perry, Paul McCartney). Wow, TIME gets a bit edgy on a Beatle. Ain't that a mystery.

[KILLER GRAMS]
Grammys 2009: The best and worst performances [Belleville News-Democrat]

Time Magazine Rates the Performances: The Grammys in Review [Time.com]

GRAMMY Awards [Official Website]

American Music Ball Cancelled

2009-01-21T08:43:00.000-08:00

Last night, TMZ reported that some of the dozen planned inauguration balls were in deep trouble due to poor ticket sales. The American Inauguration Ball, headed by music legend Dionne Warwick, was cancelled for those reasons. Her party was set to feature headliners including Yolanda Adams, George Clinton, Chaka Khan, Marvin Sapp, Smokie Norful and Kirk Franklin. Alongside with her star-studded event, the joint party for the kids at the Hip-Hop Ball, which featured hip-hop stars Ludacris and T-Pain, was also axed at the last minute. Ticket sales proved to be a troubling factor for both events, with sales reaching over $450.

At Gawker, a popular online blog, they decided to leave some extra commentary on the subject after it was revealed how pricey the tickets were going. "Like subprime mortgages packaged up and resold as AAA bonds, the promoters were hoping they could transform their ball scams, through some alchemy, into Obama gold. We may feel bad for Warwick — but not for the fool who hired her."

But they also forgot to report the big truth: Dionne booked too many gospel acts. You know folk ain't going to pack a music hall for a gospel concert even for $50. $450 is really pushing it.

[DIONNE'S NOT HAVING A BALL]
Dionne Warwick Not Having a Ball at Inauguration [Gawker]

Sunday Best Finalists Make Official Debut

2009-01-16T20:25:00.000-08:00

If you are a fan of Sunday Best (BET's version of American Idol), you may finally be relieved to know that Zomba Gospel has officially released albums of the finalist and runner-up. But there's more to the story - both projects dropped on music shelves on the same week.

Crystal Aikin, the crowned winner from the state of Washington, uncovers her self-titled project containing ten tracks layered with production from Kirk Franklin, PAJAM, Asaph A. Ward and Dre & Vidal. Though she confesses that the album contains something for everybody according to a December press release, the bulk of the project aims to reach the urban contemporary audience.

Chicago native Shari Addison, who cites her musical influences to be Shirley Caesar, Luther Vandross and Patti LaBelle, gives up a more traditional approach to her album and by staying transparent of the soulful personality she exerted while on the show. She was the runner-up, but it seems like she's getting more attention from radio and also from the press with her debut.

ChristianityToday.com gave Addison's new album a four (out of 5) star rating, while Aikin's album trailed behind with three stars. Her selected single, "No Battle, No Blessing," opened up in 2009 as the number one song added at R&R. GRAMMY-award winning producer Kevin Bond, whom worked on the lead single, is joined alongside other producers including Percy Bady, Donald Lawrence and Daniel Witherspoon.

Even though this is not a super battle like what we have come to expect from big shows like American Idol (remember Ruben and Clay or Justin and Kelly), Zomba is doing a good job in pitching a Holy Ghost duel between the two - with both albums being released on the same date. This is far from being declared a competitive war. But there's enough invested in the Sunday Best brand to determine if it will return to the airwaves after their newest season kicks off. In regards to Aikin and Addison, we just have to watch and wait to see what the final numbers will be next week to determine who come out on top. For Zomba and BET's sake, the battle is far from over.

[SHARI VS. CRYSTAL]

New music from Crystal Aikin [EURweb.com]

Shari Addison releases new music [EURweb.com]

Review: Crystal Aikin [ChristianityToday.com]

Review: Shari Addison [ChristianityToday.com]

Remembering Claude Jeter

2009-01-08T03:15:00.000-08:00

While today's generations of gospel music followers have grown very close to the beats and grooves of their radio, much of gospel's great history - though overlooked and barely embraced - stands as a testament of the genre's mighty evolution. Important to that great history is the legacy Rev. Claude Jeter left behind.

One of the greatest quartet singers that ever lived, Jeter, born in Montgomery, Alabama, played an astronomical role in modern gospel music by shaping up the traditional avenues of quartet gospel with his smooth falsetto style and his silky vocals; ultimately influencing a rising list of R&B vocalists like Eddie Kendricks, Smokey Robinson and Al Green. He founded the legendary Swan Silvertones in 1938 and led them up the charts in the late 1940s and early '50s while recording for King Records and later for Speciality. In the jubilee gospel style, the Silvertones developed a strong reputation for solid performances and for pushing the envelope towards a more contemporary style. Their greatest results, with Jeter out front on lead vocals, appeared on songs like "Lord I've Tried," "I'm Coming Home," "I'm a Rollin'" and the haunting "Motherless Child." They later softened up their sound when arranger Paul Owens joined the group; incorporating a more relaxed jazz sounds on their recorded work.

Jeter is best remembered for his landmark hit "Oh Mary Don't You Weep" in 1959. Within the song Jeter ad-libs the phrase: "I'll be a bridge over deep water, if you trust in my name." These words would serve as the pure inspiration for pop icon Paul Simon when he scored "Bridge Over Troubled Water" with singing partner Art Garfunkel in 1970. "Troubled Water" is best noted as Simon's most successful song associated with the 1960's duo. Another interesting point in Simon's classic hit is how the song lyrically also pays homage to the Silvertones for their inspiration. Within the third verse, the beginning line mentions, "Sail on, silver girl, sail on by." Most music historians note that Simon was thinking of Jeter and the legendary Silvertones.

Jeter remained with the group throughout the first half of the '60s until the group moved to the HOB label. He wanted to focus more on his solo career and ministry.

After being inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2002, Jeter remained somewhat low-key. In 1988, a gospel festival sponsored the reunion of Jeter with the Silvertones, along with other gospel greats like the late Marion Williams and the Faithful Harmonizers. In a 1988 New York Times article, Jeter spoke of gospel's great story of survival:

''Our music' goes clean back to the days of slavery. That's when my great-grandmother and grandfather, they worked them as slaves and they worked them in the fields, and they didn't feed them on nothing but fatback and corn bread. They'd be tired, they'd be exhausted from the heat and everything, but they'd look up toward heaven, and they'd say, 'Jesus, I'm going to be there someday.' We've been living on hope for 200 years.''

Jeter passed away on January 6, 2009 in New York City at the age of 94. He leaves behind a powerful legacy and a mesmerizing catalog of timeless music that is most certain to last for 200 more years.

[IN LOVING MEMORY OF REV. JETER]

Pop/Jazz; At Gospel Festival, Music Inspired by Hope [New York Times]

Another Quartet Soldier Gone: Claude Jeter Dies [Black Gospel Blog]

Year In Review Series at PRAYZEHYMN Online.com

2009-01-02T10:34:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year, boys and girls.

Want to wish you the vert best in 2009 and that great joy, expectation and promise will come flowing your way. A great way to start the new year is by reflecting on the great things of the last year. 2008 had its share of problems (but of course), but we were fortunate to report the best of gospel music in our annual write-up at PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com. Below you will see what articles we have available for you.

The Top 50 Gospel Songs of 2008
Our annual Year In Review series continues with our jumbo listing of the top fifty gospel songs to come out in 2008. Mary Mary gets up, Jonathan Nelson comes out victorious, Regina Belle makes a good placement and Marvin Sapp's "Never Would Have Made It" makes the list, but you may be surprised at who makes the number one spot.
http://www.prayzehymnonline.com/articles_prayzehymn_best_songs2008.html

Essentially 2008
What an interesting year 2008 has been. As usual, we wrap up the year in our Year In Review series beginning with our super-duper countdown of the year's best gospel albums. If you think you really know who the #1 pick is...you may want to think again. Check out our exclusive list of essentials along with our comments. Lo and behold, the top 12 gospel albums of 2008.
http://www.prayzehymnonline.com/articles_essentially2008.html

We are still working on the Year In Review 2008 article. So please bear with us as we working on the last write-up highlighting 2008.

[BEST OF 2008]

The Top 50 Gospel Songs of 2008 [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]
Essentially 2008 [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]

J Moss Owes Child Support

2008-12-10T23:22:00.000-08:00

"I'm not perfect/but I'm trying/When u needed me there
were a few times I didn't come running" - J Moss; from song "I'm Not Perfect"

This didn't pass our radar - we just failed to mention it pretty much.

While the Big Three auto companies continued to cry out to U.S. senators for a financial bailout on Capitol Hill, the Detroit News didn't miss one heartbeat in reporting the recent upset with gospel artist J. Moss; who was has been ordered by an Oakland Circuit Court judge to pay child support to a Georgia woman.

He is ordered to pay $1,028 a month to Lakisha Hughes, 28, of Douglasville, GA concerning her son, Christion until he reaches the age of eighteen. A paternity test was taken proving the 36-year old singer to be the child's father.

Did we add that Moss is a married man and has two other children with his wife? According to the Detroit paper, that seems to be the case. Another startling revelation surrounds Hughes' testimony citing that Moss offered to pay abortion expenses during her pregnancy. At the time of the article, Moss was not able to be reached for comment. Might be a good time for the singer to take a little hiatus from recording. At least 'til this cools down some.

Kudos to GospelCity.com and the Detroit News for the article.

[MORE MOSS MESS]

J Moss Must Pay Child Support [Gospelcity.com]

Singer must pay child support [Detroit News]

Anniversary Week at PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com

2008-11-16T11:29:00.000-08:00

Join in the fun.
Get in on the excitement.
It's time to party!

It's been seven years since our inception and in the words of McFadden & Whitehead, "ain't no stoppin' us now." This week alone, we are planning a big celebration for our avid readers, supportive extended family and well-beloved supporters that is sure to trump anything we have done before. So sorry we didn't plan on hosting any big gospel concerts...that's soon to come...but we do have alot to offer at PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com, our beloved Yahoo! music group PRAYZEHYMN and at our proud Live365.com radio station - PRAYZEHYMN Express.

We've got tons of album reviews, music feeds, CD giveaways, articles, commentaries and a big holiday issue awaiting to be posted. So make sure you get in on the scoop and learn about this year's schedule of events surrounding our 7th anniversary promoting the best of gospel music.

By the way, if you want to be generous, show some love by sending an e-card or a MySpace "thank-you" or even a financial love gift to us.

Below you will find a link to a cool JPEG flyer featuring our activities.

[PARTY LINKS]
PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com (Official Website)
PRAYZEHYMN Express (Live365.com)
PRAYZEHYMN (Yahoo!)

Coco and Rosario To Wed

2008-11-11T08:55:00.000-08:00

Three months ago, we selected a careful set of gospel performers that should take interest in modeling. Beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, but our fourteen selections - including Niyoki, DeLeon Richards. Lonnie Hunter and Mary Mary - are some of gospel's well-known beauty masters. Also making that list was Atlanta DJ CoCo Brother and Joann Rosairo. Little did we know that those two would make an announcement later that they would walk down the aisle to get married.

Cory "CoCo" Condrey made the announcement and spoke with AJC about the big date. "I'm getting married December 31."

The two met for the first time in person this year after orbiting around each other for a couple of years, with Rosario performing gospel and Condrey remaining busy with his career. According to AJC, the two contacted each other through emails and by phone. Rosario was booked for a concert in Atlanta, and the two agreed to met and have dinner. And the magic began.

Listeners of CoCo's show have mixed emotions about the announcement, since CoCo created buzz about a woman named "Z" he planned on tieing the knot with. One blogger uttered out her frustration on the AJC comments' board.

"COCO said on air last year that some girl name Z was the only girl for him and they were getting married on 8.08.08 this year. What a hypocrite!!

Another blogger chimed in right after.

"Sabrina, I applaud you for saying what so many of us have been thinking. CoCo is clearly confused and has been acting completely hypocritical. I wonder how long it is going to take for him to wake up and realize the fallacy of his ways."

Still, who would have thought that two of our beauty pageant contestants would pair off to marry? One thing is for sure - the two make a beautiful, sexy couple. Need proof?

[COCO & ROSARIO: TWO TO BECOME ONE]
JoAnn Rosario and Gospel DJ CoCo Brother to Wed [TotalPraise.net/AJC]

Joann Rosario and Cory Condrey Engaged [BellaOnline]
Coco Brother getting married [AJC]
Gospel Top Model: Season 1 [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]

Obama Wins U.S. Election

2008-11-06T08:32:00.000-08:00

It didn't take long after 8 o'clock on Tuesday evening for the majority of electoral votes to slide in Sen. Barack Obama's favor. The Democratic hopeful received the news that big states including Florida, Ohio, New Mexico, Pennsylvania and even battleground states like Colorado, North Carolina and California were awarded to him. As thousands including Rev. Jesse Jackson and Oprah Winfrey united in Chicago's Grant Park for a big victory celebration, the rest of the country - a projected 71.5 million people - watched and waited to see Obama claim the prize. CBS News announced a big lead of electoral votes (206-135) by 10 p.m. ET and the Associated Press went on to make the big announcement. The long brutal and historical campaign was finally over. Republican challenger Sen. John McCain went on to concede the race to a very gloomy and saddened crowd in Arizona and Sen. Barack Obama was announced to be the 44th president of the United States of America; making history globally for becoming the first black commander in chief of the U.S.

Popular blogger Rod McCullom of Rod 2.0 stated, "Barack Obama's victory crystallizes the American experience. The election of a man of color to the nation's highest office, only 44 years after Selma, is a transformational moment and demonstrates our nation is finally healing its deep racial wounds." To many African-Americans and minorities across the country, Obama's win was expressed with shouts of joy and loud chants of "Yes We Can" at viewing parties and prayer vigils.

On a different note, ChristianityToday.com, one of the leading publications for evangelicals, remain openly nervous about an Obama candidacy. There's no sign of victory or celebration on the conservative online publication. While a moving commentary from Deann Alford recites the emotional wounds of dramatic racism and legalized segregation, most of the posts have been careful and hesitant to celebrate a moment that many media journalists are bold enough to call a defining "historic" moment. Sarah Pulliam cited, "Evangelicals will have to learn to work with Barack Obama's administration, no matter how ecstatic or how disappointed they may be."

For popular black websites, superstar MySpace pages and gospel e-zines including GospelCity.com, Black Voices and our good friend Black Gospel Blog, the party remained vigorous and apparent. R&B crooner John Legend sings about the need for hope and change, provoked by Obama's successful campaign, on "If You're Out There;" found on his newly-released project Evolver. In gospel news surrounding President-Elect Obama, gospel legend Dorothy Norwood has recorded a studio reworking of her classic 1992 hit "Victory Is Mine" in tribute to Obama's inspirational path to the White House. The remake features background vocals from Ricky Dillard's New G. "Victory Is Mine (Obama Mix)" has been released and sent to radio and is expected to show up on her upcoming album Fifty Years - It's Been Worth It All; hitting shelves in the beginning of 2009.

[OBAMA: THE BIG WIN]
World is watching President Obama [BlackVoices.com]
President Elect: Barack Obama's Speech [GospelCity.com]
Barack Obama Elected President [Rod 2.0]

Dejected McCain supporters wary of Obama [CNN.com]

Obama adds symbolic victory to White House win [AP]

24th Annual Stellar Award Nominations

2008-10-30T10:28:00.000-07:00

Central City Productions, under chairman Don Jackson, announced the nominees for the 24th Annual Stellar Awards - which takes place on Saturday, January 17, 2009 at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN. Leading in multiple categories are Marvin Sapp, Beverly Crawford, Jonathan Nelson, Ricky Dillard, CeCe Winans, Kirk Franklin, Endurance, Youthful Praise and Canton Jones.

Also announced, renowned comedian/actor Sinbad will be serving as the host for the live taping.

The Stellar Awards have also selected their honorees for the upcoming show. The James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award will be awarded to Daryl Coley, while the Most Notable Achievement award will be given to Vickie Winans. The Ambassador Bobby Jones Award will be given to the Rance Allen Group.

Below you will find an extensive list of categories and their respected nominees for the 24th annual Stellar Awards.

Artist of the Year
Beverly Crawford; Live From Los Angeles; JDI Records
Dorinda Clark-Cole; Take It Back; Zomba Label Group
Kirk Franklin; The Fight of My Life; Fo Yo Soul/Gospocentric/Zomba Label Group
Marvin Sapp; Thirsty; Verity/Zomba Label Group
Ricky Dillard & New G; The 7th Episode: Live in Toronto; Nuspring Records/EMI Gospel

Song of the Year (Songwriter; Song; Label)
Canton Jones ; "My Day"; Arrow Records
Jonathan Nelson and Justin Savage; "My Name Is Victory"; Integrity Music
Marvin Sapp / Matthew Brownie; "Never Would Have Made It "; Zomba Label Group
Myron Butler and John Webb; "Stronger"; EMI Gospel
Percy Gray; "God Is My Everything"; New Haven Records

Male Vocalist of the Year
Byron Cage; Live at the Apollo: The Proclamation; Gospocentric/Zomba Label Group
Isaiah D. Thomas; The Greatest; Habakkuk Music
Marvin Sapp; Thirsty; Verity/Zomba Label Group
Marvin Winans; Alone But Not Alone; PureSprings Gospel
The John Tillery Project; The Next Level; Danbla Records

Female Vocalist of the Year
Beverly Crawford; Live From Los Angeles; JDI Records
CeCe Winans;Thy Kingdom Come; PureSprings Gospel
Dorinda Clark-Cole; Take It Back; Zomba Label Group
Jessica Greene; 4 The World; Habakkuk Music
Shirley Caesar; After 40 Years... Still Sweeping Through the City; ShuBel Records/Light Records

Group Duo of the Year
Deitrick Haddon Presents Voices of Unity; Together in Worship; Tyscot Records
Israel & New Breed; Live: A Deeper Level; Integrity Music
Jonathan Nelson featuring Purpose; Right Now Praise; Integrity Music
The John Tillery Project; The Next Level; Danbla Records
Youthful Praise featuring JJ Hairston; Exalted ...Live in Baltimore; Evidence Gospel / Light Records

New Artist of the Year
Jai Reed; Anointed for Purpose; TLR Records
Jessica Greene; 4 The World; Habakkuk Music
Melody; The Reason; N'Flyte Music Group
Terrell Hunt; Awesome; Rich Escape Music
The Murrills; Donald Lawrence Introduces The Murrills Family Prayer; Verity/Zomba Label Group

CD of the Year
Dorinda Clark-Cole; Take It Back; Zomba Label Group
Kirk Franklin; The Fight of My Life; Fo Yo Soul/Gospocentric/Zomba Label Group
Marvin Sapp; Thirsty; Verity/Zomba Label Group
Ricky Dillard & New G; The 7th Episode: Live in Toronto; Nuspring Records/EMI Gospel
Tye Tribbett & G.A.; Stand Out; Columbia Records/Axis

Choir of the Year
Chicago Mass Choir Just Having Church Live; New Haven Records
Isaiah D. Thomas; The Greatest; Habakkuk Music
Ricky Dillard & New G; The 7th Episode: Live in Toronto; Nuspring Records/EMI Gospel
Tye Tribbett & G.A.; Stand Out; Columbia Records/Axis
Shekinah Glory Ministry; Jesus; Kingdom Records

Producer of the Year
Aaron Lindsey; Thirsty; Zomba Label Group
Donald Lawrence; Donald Lawrence Introduces The Murrills Family Prayer; Verity/Zomba Label Group
Isaiah D. Thomas, Warren Jones, & Christopher Leach; The Greatest; Habakkuk Music
Jonathan Nelson, Justin Savage, & Kenneth Shelton; Right Now Praise; Integrity Music
Kirk Franklin & Harold Martin; The Fight of My Life; Fo Yo Soul/Gospocentric/Zomba Label Group

Contemporary Group/Duo of the Year
Deitrick Haddon Presents Voices of Unity; Together in Worship; Tyscot Records
Israel & New Breed; Live: A Deeper Level; Integrity Music
Jonathan Nelson featuring Purpose; Right Now Praise; Integrity Music
Myron Butler & Levi; Stronger; EMI Gospel
Vashawn Mitchell and Friends; Promises; Tyscot Records

Traditional Group/Duo of the Year
Bishop F.C. Barnes & Co.; The Barnes Family Reunion II; AIR Gospel
Doug & Melvin Williams; Duets II; Blackberry Records
Endurance; I've Got a Home;SCCME Records
Lee Williams & The Spiritual QC's; So Much To Be Thankful For; MCG Records
The Canton Spirituals; Driven; Verity/Zomba Label Group

Contemporary Male of the Year
Byron Cage; Live at the Apollo: The Proclamation; Gospocentric/Zomba Label Group
Canton Jones; Kingdom Business; Arrow Records
Jonathan Nelson featuring Purpose; Right Now Praise; Integrity Music
Marvin Winans; Alone But Not Alone; PureSprings Gospel
The John Tillery Project; The Next Level; Danbla Records

Traditional Male of the Year
Bishop Paul S. Morton; Embracing the Next Dimension; Light Records/ Tehillah
Keith 'Wonderboy' Johnson; Keith 'Wonderboy' Johnson presents The Rising Stars of Quartet Vol. 1; Malaco Gospel
Lee Williams & The Spiritual QC's; So Much To Be Thankful For; MCG Records
Luther Barnes; The Barnes Family Reunion II; AIR Gospel
Marvin Sapp; Thirsty; Verity/Zomba Label Group

Contemporary Female of the Year
CeCe Winans;Thy Kingdom Come; PureSprings Gospel
Doreen Vail; Odyssey; Vail House Productions
Joann Rosario; Joyous Salvation; Verity/Zomba Label Group
Regina Belle; Love Forever Shines; Pendulum Records
Tonya Hairston Ware; The Voice; Princess Production Company

Traditional Female of the Year
Angela Spivey; Angela Spivey and The Voices of Victory "Eyes on the Prize"; Tekoa Records
Beverly Crawford; Live From Los Angeles; JDI Records
Dorinda Clark-Cole; Take It Back; Zomba Label Group
Dorothy Norwood; No Request; Malaco Gospel
Nancey Jackson-Johnson; The Launch Out Project; Habakkuk Music

Contemporary CD of the Year
Canton Jones; Kingdom Business; Arrow Records
Jonathan Nelson featuring Purpose; Right Now Praise; Integrity Music
Marvin Winans; Alone But Not Alone; PureSprings Gospel
Deitrick Haddon Presents Voices of Unity; Together in Worship; Tyscot Records
Israel & New Breed; Live: A Deeper Level; Integrity Music

Traditional CD of the Year
Beverly Crawford; Live From Los Angeles; JDI Records
Bishop Paul S. Morton; Embracing the Next Dimension; Light Records/ Tehillah
Endurance; I've Got a Home;SCCME Records
Chicago Mass Choir Just Having Church Live; New Haven Records
Marvin Sapp; Thirsty; Verity/Zomba Label Group

Urban/ Inspirational Single / Performance of the Year (Artist; Song; Label)
Canton Jones; "My Day" Arrow Records
CeCe Winans; "Waging War" PureSprings Gospel
Deitrick Haddon featuring Ruben Studdard & Mary, Mary; "Love Him Like I Do " Integrity Gospel/Gospocentric/Zomba Label Group
Jonathan Nelson featuring Purpose; "My Name Is Victory " Integrity Music
Kirk Franklin; "Declaration: (This Is It)" Fo Yo Soul/Gospocentric/Zomba Label Group

Music Video of the Year (artist, song/CD title, label)
Darius Brooks & The Tommies Reunion Darius Brooks & The Tommies Reunion; Journey Music Group
Deitrick Haddon featuring Ruben Studdard & Mary, Mary: "Love Him Like I Do"; Gotta Have Gospel! 5; Integrity Gospel/Gospocentric/Zomba Label
Kirk Franklin: "Declaration"; The Fight of My Life; Fo Yo Soul/Gospocentric/Zomba Label Group Marvin Sapp: "Never Would Have Made It"; Thirsty; Verity/Zomba Label Group
Myron Butler & Levi: "Stronger"; Stronger; EMI Gospel

Contemporary Choir of the Year
Brent Jones & The T.P. Mobb The Ultimate Weekend; Tyscot Records
James Fortune & FIYA; The Transformation; WorldWide Music
Jonathan Nelson featuring Purpose; Right Now Praise; Integrity Music
Youthful Praise featuring JJ Hairston; Exalted ...Live in Baltimore; Evidence Gospel / Light Records
Ricky Dillard & New G; The 7th Episode: Live in Toronto; Nuspring Records/EMI Gospel

Traditional Choir of the Year
Bishop Charles E. Blake presents The West Angeles COGIC Mass Choir No Limit; EMI Gospel
Bishop Paul Morton & The Full Gospel Baptist Church Choir; Embracing the Next Dimension; Light Records/ Tehillah
Darius Brooks & The Tommies Reunion Darius Brooks & The Tommies Reunion; Journey Music Group
Chicago Mass Choir Just Having Church Live; New Haven Records
The New Life Community Choir featuring John P. Kee Nothing But Worship; Zomba Label Group

Instrumental CD of the Year
Angélla Christie; The Breath of Life; ACSM Record Company
Barry D; Born To Play; TAQA Records/New Day
Courtney Nero; Make Me Walk; Courtney Nero Music
Esther Williams & Davey Yarborough; In the Spirit; DAV-EST
Jeff Majors; Sacred Major 7th; Music One

Special Event CD of the Year
Briana Scott; O What A Night; Waterbrooke Music
Dr. Bobby Jones; Bobby Jones Presents Ultimate Gospel; Time Life
The Clark Sisters; The Best of the Clark Sisters Encore; Dexterity Sounds
Vickie Winans; Happy Holidays from Vickie Winans; Destiny Joy Records
Yolanda Adams; What A Wonderful Time; Columbia

Rap/Hip Hop Gospel CD of the Year
Da' T.R.U.T.H; Open Book; Cross Movement Records
FLAME; Our World Redeemed; Cross Movement Records
Frontlynaz; Game Over; Frontlynaz, Inc.
Sho Baraka; Turn My Life Up; Reach Records
Trip Lee; 20/20; Reach Records

Children's Performance of the Year
Ashley Payne; Peace in Heaven; Champion-Payne Productions
Dijon; A Kid's Point of View; Verity/Zomba Label Group
First Coast Children's Choir/FISH Kids; Raise the Praise/"Raise The Praise" Fitness; Spirit of Life Records
Kaira Miller; In God's Time/It Ain't Over; GFM Entertainment
The Bradby Girls; So Grateful; Jewel Records

Quartet of the Year
The Blind Boys of Alabama; Down in New Orleans; Time Life
Lee Williams & The Spiritual QC's; So Much To Be Thankful For; MCG Records
Luther Barnes & The Sunset Jubilaires; The Barnes Family Reunion II; AIR Gospel
Endurance; I've Got a Home; SCCME Records
The Canton Spirituals; Driven; Verity/Zomba Label Group

Recorded Music Package of the Year [art credit / album (artist) / label]
Aziz Peregrino-Brimah for Bezworks Design, LLC [www.bezworks.com] and Vickie Winans (art Direction/design); David Deutsch, (photography); Happy Holidays from Vickie Winans (Vickie Winans); Destiny Joy Records
Michael Jay, (graphics); Arron Holmes(logo sketch art); Roussan Etienne, Jr.(photography); In His Image Band Gospel Go-Go, Live in DC: In His Image Band Gospel Go Go: "Word Of God" (In His Image Band); R.O.U. Marketing
Michelle Lukianovich (art direction/design); Keith Major (photography); Thirsty (Marvin Sapp); Verity/Zomba Label Group
Michelle Lukianovich (art direction/design); Meghan Foley/ Michelle Lukianovich (art director); Keith Major (photography); Take It Back (Dorinda Clark-Cole); Zomba Label Group
Donald Lawrence Introduces The Murrills Family Prayer (The Murrills); Verity/Zomba Label Group

Praise and Worship CD of the Year
Byron Cage; Live at the Apollo: The Proclamation; Gospocentric/Zomba Label Group
Marvin Sapp; Thirsty; Verity/Zomba Label Group
Israel & New Breed; Live: A Deeper Level; Integrity Music
CeCe Winans;Thy Kingdom Come; PureSprings Gospel
Shekinah Glory Ministry; Jesus; Kingdom Records

A Nightmare for a Dreamgirl

2008-10-27T02:01:00.000-07:00

A very disturbing story hits the home of Jennifer Hudson, the former American Idol finalist and proud Academy Award winner. In an intensifying and on-the-hour drama investigation, the bodies of Jennifer Hudson's mother, Darnell Donerson, 57, and 29-year-old Jason Hudson were pronounced dead Friday in their South side home in Chicago. An Amber alert was also issued on Friday for 7-year-old Julian King, nephew of Jennifer Hudson. The child is still reported missing.

Police are investigating the situation very closely but do not know the motives as of yet of their killings. They are certain that the case is "domestic related;" according to police spokesman Dan O'Brien.

In a MySpace blog post on Sunday, Jennifer Hudson said she was grateful for community support and posted a picture of her sister's son.

"Thank you all for your prayers and your calls. Please keep praying for our family and that we get Julian King back home safely," the blog entry said. "If anyone has any information about his whereabouts please contact the authorities immediately ... Once again thank you all for being there for us through this tough time."

In state custody at this time is William Balfour, 27, the estranged husband of Jennifer Hudson's sister, Julia Hudson. He is considered to be a suspect in a "double homicide investigation." He is currently on parole and has a very discouraging record of previous crimes against him including a seven year sentence to prison for attempted murder, vehicular hijacking and possessing a stole vehicle.

The timing of this grueling and depressing saga of drama comes at yet another peak for the beloved Oscar-winning actress and singer. She is currently enjoying the success of her recently-released best-selling album and a number one single ("Spotlight") on the R&B/Hip-hop charts and can be seen in the motion picture The Secret Life of Bees.

[SPOTLIGHT ON J-HUD HEARTACHE]
Search continues for Jennifer Hudson's nephew [AP]
Jennifer Hudson puts up $100K reward for missing nephew [Tucson Citizen]
Hudson offers $100,000 reward for nephew's safe return [CNN]
Jennifer Hudson [MySpace]
Jennifer Hudson [Official Website]

Remembering Dee Dee Warwick

2008-10-20T11:03:00.000-07:00

Another soul legend has passed us by. She probably didn't earn the bright glow of celebrity found in her infamous sister Dionne Warwick, but Dee Dee Warwick was a class act that cut some a number of R&B hits in the 1960s and 70s with "Foolish Fool," "I'm Gonna Make You Love Me" (later recorded by the Supremes) , the original version of "You're No Good" (also re-recorded by Linda Ronstadt in 1975) and the Top Ten R&B hit "She Didn't Know (She Kept on Talking)."

Born in Newark, New Jersey, Warwick started singing as a teenager and joined The Gospelaires and her renowned family gospel group The Drinkard Singers (also featuring Cissy Houston and Dionne Warwick). At the height of the Drinkard Singers' career, Warwick would continue to provide background vocals for their albums; leading to historic background sessions with greats like Aretha Franklin, Roberta Flack and Wilson Pickett.

Dee Dee reunited with her singing family members (Cissy, Whitney, Dionne) on "Family First;" a song featured in the Tyler Perry movie soundtrack Daddy's Little Girls. Warwick also recorded with Dionne in January 2008 on her gospel album Why We Sing; performing a duet with her sister on the album's title track. These two works ended up being the last of her released work. Dee Dee Warwick died Saturday at a nursing home in Essex County, said family spokesman Kevin Sasaki. She had been in failing health in recent months, he said, and her sister was with her when she passed away.

She indeed will be missed. Yet her memory lingers with us...in spirit and in song.

Lecrae Tops Billboard's Gospel Charts

2008-10-19T23:40:00.000-07:00

For the second week since its September 30th release date, hip-hop/Christian rapper Lecrae tops the Billboard's Gospel charts at number one with his third album release Rebel; selling an astonishing 9,800 copies in its first week and 5,600 copies during the second week of release. The album also did remarkably well on the pop charts - peaking at an astonishing number 60. Incredible for a gospel rap album. By the way, the album knocked former number one and gold-certified album, Marvin Sapp's Thirsty, to the number two spot.

Rapzilla, an online Christian hip-hop magazine, calls the album "a verbal onslaught against the world's view on life in modern day culture."

Lecrae is the first holy hip-hop star to top Billboard's gospel charts for two consecutive weeks in a row. Goes to show you how gospel music is changing before our very eyes. I don't think Grandma is gonna like this one bit.

[REBEL WITH A CAUSE]
Lecrae Album Review: Rebel [Rapzilla]
Lecrae's Rebel Claims #1 Spot on Billboard Charts [PRLog]
Lecrae Official MySpace Page [MySpace.com]

Gospel Today Issue Pulled From Lifeway

2008-10-14T20:49:00.000-07:00

We failed to report on the other big news headliner for the month of September, but still felt it was of great importance to discuss it. During the height of a heavy political season and with an turbulent market and economy on our hands, Lifeway Christian Bookstores - one of the largest U.S. chains of Christian books, magazines, film and other media resources - made it an effort to pull the Fayetteville, Georgia based Gospel Today Magazine from its shelves during the months of September and October. The reason behind their decision had little with the book's popularity and everything to do with the five smiling women embracing its September/October issue. Five popular and influential women pastors, dressed in black and resting on church pews, embraced the front cover - including Pastor Tamara Bennett, Pastor Claudette Copeland, Bishop Millicent Turner. Pastor Sheryl Brady and Pastor Kimberly Ray. The store, owned by the Southern Baptist Convention, decided not to display the issue on its stores' shelves due to their belief and policies that restricts the role of a pastor to men.

“It’s really kind of sad when you have people like [Gov.] Sarah Palin and [Sen.] Hillary Clinton providing encouragement and being role models for women around the world that we have such a divergent opinion about women who are able to be leaders in the church,” Gospel Today's publisher Teresa Hairston said. “We weren’t trying to pick a fight. We just did a story on an emerging trend in a lot of churches.”

Lifeway will still carry the controversial issue but will be sold after customer request. Meaning you must walk up to the front counter and ask for it. While behind-the-counter items are quite familiar in retail because of a number of issues ranging from low-volume quantities to high demand, from high-theft reasons to age prevention, the bold hypocrisy of Lifeway Christian Stores for their reasons to hide their merchandise from the public is a baffling subject for discussion.

Here's the problem that arises to the surface. If you don't agree with the magazine and its point-of-view, pull the magazine PERIOD. But Lifeway doesn't exactly pull the magazine for good. They also didn't just pull the issue. The magazine is still available for purchase, but you have to ask for it...because it's sitting behind the service desk. One thing's for sure: it is apparent that the Southern Baptists aren't too crazy to miss out on a good sale. Now I wonder what else is behind that service desk for sale that's not on the shelf.

JUDGING THE BOOK BY ITS COVER

Gospel Today: "I Will Help" Campaign [GospelCity.com]

Gospel Today magazine pulled from Christian bookstores' shelves [AJC.com]

Announcing: Paul Porter CD Giveaway

2008-10-02T23:37:00.000-07:00

The highly-anticipated debut project from Paul Porter - the renowned lead singer of the Christianaires - is finally out. And with guest appearances from Rance Allen and Harvey Watkins, Jr., A NEW DAY is proving to be one of the year's most talked-about gospel projects. The project, released on Light Records, boasts the radio singles "What Did You Do?" and the uptempo jam "I Made It Through" and is currently in stores now!

But you can one of the fortunate ones to win a copy of the project in our WALK IN THE LIGHT CD Giveaway contest. Thanks to the good folks at Light Records, five lucky contestants will be chosen as winners. All you have to do is answer the trivia question correctly and email us at admin@prayzehymnonline.com the right answer with your full name and city location. With just a little brainstorm power and prayer, we are most certain you will get the answer right.

The trivia question is:
What American Idol winner mentioned in an autobiography their affection to the musical influence of Paul Porter?

For more information and details (especially the deadline) on the WALK IN THE LIGHT CD Giveaway, click the following link:
http://www.prayzehymnonline.com/walkinthelightcontest.html

[PH UPDATE]
Edited: OCTOBER 20, 2008

The contest is over for the WALK IN THE LIGHT CD Giveaway. We had a great number of people who entered the contest but as said previously, only five contestants would be selected. And we are ever proud to announce our winners! They are:

Lisa Toussiant // Scarborough, Ontario Canada
Jermarlo Brown // Huntsville, AL
Ruth-Michelle Senegal // Manassas, VA
Keemon Leonard // San Marcos, TX
Tristian Williams // Durham, NC

The correct answer to the trivia question was Fantasia Barrino.

More CD and DVD giveaways and contests are to come...so stay tuned!

[A NEW DAY BREAK]
Walk In The Light Contest [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]
Paul Porter CD Review: A New Day [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]
Didudance.com [Official Website]
Light Records [Official Website]
Paul Porter MySpace Page [MySpace.com]

Round Three: I'm Getting 'Weeks' In The Knees

2008-09-28T21:02:00.000-07:00

You would have thought the painful public display of holy crap coming from the Bynum vs. Weeks camp would have subsided and disappeared a year later. Well, it a sense it has...but Bishop Thomas Weeks, III, the pastor of a chain of Global Destiny churches that could be compared with McDonalds in the fast food world, is hitting the headlines one last time with his latest campaign for the "next Mrs. Weeks."

Oh, no. Not this.

Yes, yes indeed.

TMZ, the hit television tabloid teaser, even covered the craziness of it all. In their online story entitled "Wife-Beatin Bishop's New Fight Is With Cupid," the story zoomed in on Weeks' documentation found on his website of a series of webisodes searching for a new spouse. Yes, after the big bang marriage of popular televangelist Juanita Bynum failed before the public in 2007 and an even greater divorce was anticipated. He lists his criteria for the next Mrs. Weekls as "someone who can bear children, is sensual and can't be ugly." As expected, droves of women have already applied to enter the "contest" in hopes to marry the former husband of Bynum. With hit reality-TV shows like American Idol, the Bachelor and Love New York sweeping air time with mind-blowing stats, Weeks hopes to get in on the phenom and seriously hopes to find the next love of his life.

Now news reports are rushing in and are putting a serious strain on Weeks' reality dating show. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports the first full episode of "Who Will Be the Next Mrs. Weeks" being postponed because of "incomplete contract negotiations with a reality television producer." The news leader also mentions that Weeks is still serving probation for attacking Bynum back in August 2007; in which he pleaded guilty.

Not sure if TBN or Daystar will be picking up this show this fall in their daily programming or if it will just be limited to Weeks' website, but we seriously hope the bow-tie pastor visits Dr. Drew for a weeks worth of counseling. The last thing Weeks needs is to get "weak in the knees" again...and to spend another million on a big fancy wedding. Oh, hold on...sorry...BIG typo...I think we all know who paid for the last one.

[WEEKS OF LOVE]
Wife-Beatin Bishop's New Fight Is With Cupid [TMZ.com]
Bishop Weeks' reality dating show a no-show [Atlanta Journal Constitution]

Bishop Weeks [Official Website]

Weeks vs. Bynum: Round Two [PRAYZE Report]
The "Week-est" Link [PRAYZE Report]

Fourteen Years Later; Remembering Mattie Moss Clark

2008-09-22T15:17:00.000-07:00

This afternoon while opening the front door to go to the mailbox to see what bills arrived, I was greeted by a sealed white package lying on the porch. Usually the U.S. Postal Service (not UPS) rings the doorbell to see if anyone is home, but I didn’t get that today. Maybe because the television was so loud in the house that I couldn’t really hear anything outside my bedroom. I anxiously open the package to see what beautiful piece of vinyl I received this week after weeks of glorious victories on eBay in search of priceless, vintage gospel records. This week, I received a sealed copy of The Best of the Southwest Michigan State Choir of the Church of God in Christ. The album, released in 1979, is a double-disc collection featuring some of the greatest sides ever recorded with the famed historic choir on the Savoy music label. Much of the material comes out of the late ‘50s and 1960s including “I Thank You Lord,” “Salvation Is Free,” the contemporary sounds of "He Abides" and the charismatic COGIC standard “Climbing Up The Mountain.”

And this wonderful institution in gospel music history was led by a powerful force named Dr. Mattie Moss Clark. The choir went on to record a number of albums for several music labels including Savoy and Sound of Gospel - three of those recordings were certified gold. But the group made their mark for being one of the earliest choirs to record their music using the classic three-part harmony. They also earned the distinguished honor to being one of the first groups to record albums in a live recording setting.

After opening the album to journey back in time to these classics, I decided to do a little extensive research on the legendary matriarch. Most of the stuff I already knew, but what I found to be quite bizarre is that of all the days...I received this album in the mail on the exact same day when Dr. Mattie Moss Clark departed this life and passed away. Today marks the fourteen anniversary of her passing after a severe bout with diabetes.

In this new age of technology, some are sharing their massive collections with the world quicker than the music labels. At YouTube.com, Johnzoe777 and Rowoches, a 24-year old music buff, have posted video clips of some of Mattie Moss Clark’s greatest hits - straight off of the needle of those wonderful vinyl discs. Some of the clips even feature glimpses of the classic “Harvey” album covers. Songs posted by include ‘Write My Name Above,” “Climbing Up The Mountain,” “I Thank You Lord” and “Oh Sinner, You Can’t Hide from God.”

Finding Mattie Moss Clark music, whether it is on vinyl, tape, CD or on mp3 websites, remain a terrible hide-and-seek goose hunt for many music lovers. Much of Savoy’s divine past lies in rest in the hands of Jackson, MS-based Malaco Records and hasn’t see the light of day since vinyl was king of record shops. There may be a few legal matters holding the label back on whether it is possible to re-release the material as reissues or as revamped “greatest hits” collections, since Arista Records was in charge of manufacturing and distribution of all of Savoy’s album releases from 1975 to 1986. Savoy has released other compilations in the past, but barely a trace of them in the last five years - except for compilations from New York Restoration Choir, Georgia Mass Choir and the imbalance assortment of Savoy Gospel Classics. But there’s a ton of gospel classics and never-released cuts sitting in the chambers of Malaco and continues to collect dust as the company continues their worldwide domination to buy out other smaller music labels. The most recent acquisition included AIR Gospel. But for Mattie Moss Clark fans, they have to sit and wait for the original masters of her well-beloved recordings to somehow earn some T.L.C. (tender love & care). With so much potential to revive their catalog and to bring new found attention to their priceless goldmine, the Malaco Music Group continues to withdraw any sign of re-releasing records from the Roberta Martin Singers, the Angelic Choir, Isaac Douglas, the Davis Sisters, the Caravans, Jessy Dixon, the O’Neal Twins, Sara Jordan Powell, Donald Vails, Georgia Mass Choir, New Jerusalem Baptist Church Choir and the Gospel Music Workshop of America Mass Choir.

Well, in the meantime - we're off to eBay and YouTube.

Below is a YouTube clip of the Mattie Moss Clark "Write My Name Above;" featuring the legendary Rose Marie-Ransom on lead.

[MATTIE MOSS IS STILL BOSS]
Gospel 101: The Official Gospel Timeline [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]
Rowoches posts "Climbing Up the Mountain" (Original) [YouTube.com]
Johnzoe posts "Write My Name Above" [YouTube.com]
Mattie Moss Clark Biography & Partial Discography [Wikipedia.com]

Richard Smallwood Gets Political

2008-09-21T21:29:00.000-07:00

With high-rising tensions imploding on the political terrain as the U.S. presidential election nears, GospelCity.com decided to reveal even stronger tensions within the gospel community with their disgust towards the Bush administration. An article written by Christopher Anderson exposes Richard Smallwood's recent run-in with the current Bush administration and being blacklisted from the White House's Black Music Month Celebration earlier this year.

The article mentions how Smallwood, renowned composer of "Total Praise," "I Love the Lord" and "Center of My Joy," was previously invited to the White House festivities, but was later dismissed from the program after Smallwood cited that the Bush administration learned of his involvements at a March retirement celebration for the controversial Chicago preacher Dr. Jeremiah Wright (whom got in trouble earlier this year for what the media called "anti-semetic" statements). Smallwood spoke to the press at the Democratic National Convention in Denver where he was chosen to perform.

Strangely, Black Music Month is celebrated in June, yet the article is issued as a press release closing in on the upcoming November election date; possibly adding octane to the ever-growing tensions within the Republican and Democratic camps. What's very strange about the article is that it mentions for a brief second September's Gospel Heritage Month - a U.S. observance passed by the Senate this summer - and Smallwood "graciously" saying yes to the invite. Thereafter, the White House called his assistant Kelvin Leach and the invitation was later withdrawn.

Not sure if the article meant to focus on both June and September celebrations or if it was only limited to the gospel celebrations in September only, but what is oddly visible is that the timing of the article's posting is another sizzling firecracker hoping to expose the painful relations between both political parties. Smallwood's choice of words are also obviously striking: "So many of us are tired of politics as usual. The crisis that our country is in is because of this [George W. Bush] Administration. The hypocrisy, the untruths have put a blotch on the very principals this country was founded upon.”

Along with the super list of high-profiled celebrities and superstars aiding Obama's campaign, there's also a highly visible and proactive number of black gospel artists joining the team including Beverly Crawford, William Murphy, John P. Kee, Donnie McClurkin and Mary Mary. Add the Maestro to that growing list.

[CENTER OF MY PLOY]

Richard Smallwood Barred from White House's Black Music Month [Gospelcity.com]

Solange Snaps On the Air

2008-09-15T18:46:00.000-07:00

Solange Knowles, the baby sister of super pop star Beyonce' Knowles, is getting the big buzz in the media for more reasons than imagined. With her new album, Sol-Angel and the Hadley St. Dream, arriving on music shelves this month and her manager/father thrusting the singer into a frenzy of press interviews and public appearances, Solange is also becoming the talk of the town for possessing a "bitchy" attitude so early in her career. We will get to the episode in question a bit later. For now, let us give you the back drop of the story.

Divaism and big doses of attitude is something we may have expected to come from the singer since her first album, Solo Star, underperformed in the U.S. and dwarfed in sales when compared to Mathew Knowles' Music World other clients such as Kelly Rowland and her sister Beyonce'. The 2003 release peaked at number 49 pop and 23 R&B/hip-hop and was being sold in some stores for less that $6 just to make room for newer album releases. Her three-year marriage to football player Daniel Smith also became the talk of the town when she opened up about proceedings of a painful divorce in the October 2007 issue of Essence Magazine. Five years later, Solange returns to the music front with a different sound - almost reminiscent of the Supremes' Motown flavor with a hint of electronica. The album, featuring production work from the Bama Boyz, the Neptunes and Freemasons, became her first domestic Top 10 album, sold 46,000 copies in its first week and debuted at number 9 on Billboard 200. This is good news indeed for the singer as she tries to break away from the pressures of being compared to her popular sister.

What's even better news is that the album has been getting moderately good reviews on the album. The Times called it "a modern classic" and gave it four out of five stars as its score. Some critics, while citing the cool sounds, have addressed Knowles' weak vocals. Jody Rosen of Rolling Stone magazine cited Knowles' attempts to recreate Erykah Badu's psychedelic-soul tracks, but calls her vocal abilities as "embarassing." She goes on to say that the album's sound is like a "woozy lava lamp glow." If you haven't heard Solange perform live, check out videos on YouTube of her performing on the Today Show and most recently, the Tyra Banks Show. She performs "i Decided," her recent single, and falls into a few cracks and irritable chit-chat segments to cover up the unclassy vocals. Her background singers and band even overshadow her solo performance.

Maybe her frustrations - with the media and maybe her family - are becoming too hard to mask as Solange becomes the talk of the town once again for her media rage on a Fox 5 news anchorwoman during a live interview. It's a chilling uncomfortable confrontation that smells like a brewing cat-fight. Thankfully, the anchorwoman plays off Solange's words and goes into classy mode to talk about her new album.

The folks' at The Soup, a Yahoo! comedic skit focusing on celebs and Hollywood pitfalls, even joked about it...also recognizing Solange's attitude.

And to make matters worse...Solange has released a mix-tape to coincide with her album's release that features a song entitled "F*** the Industry (Signed Sincerely)." Remember Solange is signed to the same label ran by Mathew Knowles, her father, and so happens to have Grammy-nominated Trin-I-Tee 5:7 and Brian C. Wilson on its roster. We seriously hope Sister Solange gets her act together...or else Daddy Knowles might have to put her in a time-out for punishment.

[SO-LONG TO A BIG CAREER]
Solange Knowles Snaps at News Reporter! [YouTube.com]
Solange says she stands by her rant [EURWeb.com]
Solange Knowles hopes to emerge from Beyonce's shadow [Pantagraph.com]
Knowles' second album too breathy, uninspired [Redandblack.com]
Solange performing "I Decided" on Today Show [YouTube.com]
Solange performing "I Decided" on Tyra Banks [YouTube.com]

Ike's Aftermath

2008-09-15T02:18:00.000-07:00

Awakening to the start of a new week usually is viewed as a start of new beginnings. Most cases, it's the first day of the working week. A nice way of saying torture - can't wait for Friday. But for some...those that reside in the state of Texas, extra work will be required. Hurricane Ike - a reported Category 2 storm - ravaged the Gulf Coast this past weekend and brought damage to the states of Texas, Arkansas and parts of Louisiana.

According to reports from the Associated Press, over 2 million are left without power in the state of Texas and over 2,000 residents whom decided to wither the storm were rescued from disaster areas. The death toll from Ike rose to 28 confirmed, but many of those were far to the north of the Gulf Coast as the storm slogged across the nation's midsection.

Good news for those hunting for good gas prices. Oil prices shot down immediately as trade opened up on Monday due to minimal destruction and damage to U.S. oil installations. This weekend, gas prices were spiked to $5 a gallon with fears of heavy damage to come from the bunt of Hurricane Ike's fury. Still, some gas stations - especially with Houston residents rushing back into the city - are without fuel and are having serious problems meeting the demand.

Our prayers go out to the citizens of Houston, Galveston and surrounding communities and areas heavily affected by Ike. One of our well respected blogger buddies and industry resources - Keisha - webmaster of The Gospel Music Fill Up - is based and resides in Houston, Texas. We pray that she along with the many great citizens of the area are doing well and will recover from the Ike's aftermath.

[IKE'S BITE]
Nearly 2,000 brought to safety in Texas after Ike [Associated Press]
Oil falls below $99 on low Ike damage [Associated Press]
The Gospel Music Fill Up (Official Site)

Recovery Update: Rev. Timothy Wright

2008-09-14T23:52:00.000-07:00

Two months ago, the gospel music industry learned of the unfortunate news that Rev. Timothy Wright, the beloved hymnwriter of modern gospel tunes "Who's On The Lord's Side," "Trouble Don't Last Always" and the artist behind the radio hit "Jesus Jesus Jesus," was involved in a July 4th tragic car accident while he and his family were heading home from a Church of God in Christ Auxiliaries convention in Detroit. They were struck by John Pick; a wrong-way drunken driver whom also died at the scene. Many were puzzled and caught off guard by the news and had the news media on their toes; gripping over the mere thought of Rev. Wright being silenced. Unfortunately, the accident claimed the lives of his wife Evangelist Betty Wright and their grandson, DJ Wright. With much prayer, Rev. Wright survived and began a series of surgeries and has since been transported to New Jersey's Keesler Institute, one of the nation's leading providers of comprehensive physical medicine and rehabilitation services, to undergo weeks of rehabilitation.

We have grown relentlessly silent and tranquil over the buzz surrounding Wright's important steps of progress to regain physical recovery. But the silence is being broken over two big public appearances from the well-beloved gospel icon.

On Tuesday, August 26, Wright made an appearance at a Brooklyn church where Donnie McClurkin, John P. Kee and Hezekiah Walker all greeted him with love and support.

On Saturday, September 6, more than 500 worshippers packed the Shiloh Baptist Church in Plainfield, New Jersey to raise funds for Wright's costly medical expenses. Rev. Wright only showed up for a brief period of time, according to reports, and was supported by a transport team from the Keesler Institute, including two nurses and one respiratory specialist. The crowd greeted Wright with shouting, weeping and soft prayers.

Special musical guests on program for the worship service included Wright's Concert Choir and the New York Fellowship Mass Choir (currently under the direction of David Wright), Alvin Darling & Celebration, Carlton Pope, the Shiloh Baptist Church Mass Choir and others.

The goal of the event was to raise $100,000 dollars. Of the donors and contributors, Alex Snipes and his chain of radio stations based in South Carolina impressed the crowd with their financial contribution to the family of $25,000.

According to Sheilah Belle of the Belle Report, the Grammy-nominated gospel singer is slowly recovering, but is making substantial progress. At one time, doctors said, Rev. Wright was paralyzed from the neck to the waist. However, Rev. Wright now has movement in his shoulders and upper arms.

This has been very agonizing for those that have been touched by the legacy and musical ministry of Rev. Wright. But with prayer and faith, we will get through this. In the words of Wright's illustrious 1989 gospel ballad..."with Jesus on our side, things will work out fine...we're gonna make it."

Donations made out to the Rev. Timothy Wright can be sent to the Timothy Wright Trust, 3399 Lawson Blvd., Oceanside, N.Y. 11572. Checks for more than $500 can be made out to the Kessler Institute with "For Rev. Timothy Wright" written in the memo line.

[ON THE "WRIGHT" ROAD NOW]
Rev. Timothy Wright Makes Appearance at New Jersey Church [Belle Report]
Timothy Wright Hurt In Tragic Car Accident [PRAYZE Report]
Rev. Wright wants to return to pulpit [NY Daily News]

PRAYZEHYMN Mastercards: Revisited #1

2008-09-09T10:37:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like the classics. And in gospel music, finding classics can be a real pain. We will just leave it there. Reason why is because most of the classics haven't been repackaged, remastered, stored correctly and re-released to the immediate public - which leaves us with no other choice but to ramble through eBay to locate one man's junk. In the end, the treasure hunt usually is successful - especially with the help of other Internet stores (Amazon.com, GEMM.com) and even mega record shops (Tower, Virgin). But when you find a valuable, a collectible or a compact disc of your favorite gospel records, the world becomes a better place.

About two years ago, we introduced the PRAYZEHYMN Mastercards series on PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com; a section dedicated to essential gospel albums that many consider must-haves for gospel music lovers. The section ended up being a big hit on the site - drawing new legions of fans to the site to learn some history and background on their favorites. Since its introduction in 2006, PRAYZEHYMN Mastercards has thirty inclusions and will be growing with new entries later on this month as we celebrate fifteen more noteworthy projects.

And we can't wait.

But in the meantime, let us journey back for a second and reflect on the awesomeness of some of these timeless albums that have been previously reviewed. This time, we focus on the songs that made these albums such die-hard favorites. Just in time for GOSPEL MUSIC HERITAGE MONTH.

"For the Good of Them"
Rev. Milton Brunson & the Thompson Community Singers (Word/A&M)
from the album AVAILABLE TO YOU (1988)

A timeless classic never wears thin. And "For the Good of Them" - one of the super gospel ballads from the legendary Thompson Community Singers - is a primary example. Kim McFarland's delightful, youthful vocals are charmed with a zesty Chicago fire that ignites with great flames as the song floods into its harmonic chorus. The choir begins to enunciate the words using strong diction and perfect execution and brings home the lyrics. While robust across most parts of the song, the sweet closing minutes finds the choir looping the final words in mellow form. The song leans on the scriptural text found in Romans 8:28 and is beautifully shaped into a more contemporary fashion with the help of songwriter Darius Brooks.

"Love"
God's Property
From the album FROM KIRK FRANKLIN'S NU NATION (B-Rite/Interscope)
(1997)

Can you believe it's been over ten years ago that this album hit the shelves. From that album - even with "Stomp" controlling the R&B airwaves and songs like "More Than I Can Bear" - came a beautiful display of tender R&B and elegant contemporary gospel found in "Love." The closing minutes of the soft piano and whisper-like harmonies from God's Property are best remembered. There are definitely traces of quiet storm etched into the instrumentation, but it best resembles a 90s version of the mature lyrical content and musical nature of the Winans and Commissioned. But with an excellent choir leading the way.

"Respect Yourself"
The Staple Singers
from the album BE ALTITUDE: RESPECT YOURSELF (Stax)
(1972)

Just the acoustic guitar on this crossover classic was enough to get down on. Decades since its release, this message song, done in the tradition of modern freedom songs of the late 60s, landed big on R&B and pop radio. It's not too preachy, but it gets the point across.

"If you’re walking round thinking that the world owes you something ‘cause you’re here/You’re going out the world backwards like you did when you first come here.”

The execution in Mavis Staples' gutsy vocals and Pop Staples' cool down-home bluesy deliveries solidified a type of greatness to this Staples' classic and endures as one of the very best, even matching up to Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On" and Curtis Mayfield's "(Don't Worry) If There's A Hell Below, We're All Going to Go." All people could relate to it - it wasn't a black or white thing. It was a social thing and the Staples - with their faith in God and their unapologetic roots in gospel - made sure they ceased their opportunity to present a gospel that all can say "amen" to. "Respect Yourself" has been covered by many pop acts including Johnnie Taylor, the Temptations, Etta James, Robert Palmer, Joe Cocker and even recorded by actor Bruce Willis at the height of his Moonlighting mania. But none come close to touching the authenticity of the original.

"For God So Loved the World"
Vanessa Bell Armstrong
from the album PEACE BE STILL (Onyx/Benson)
(1983)

Currently celebrating forty-two years in the music business, Vanessa Bell Armstrong has had a long road filled with ups and downs. More ups probably. She started out performing with the legendary Dr. Mattie Moss Clark on a number of projects on Savoy with the Southwest Michigan State Choir. Doors would later open for the lyric singer to gain ground within the beloved Church of God in Christ denomination. But it took Thomas Whitfield, music extraordinaire, to get a hold of the talented singer and to thrust her out into the immediate public as a professional solo act.

"For God So Loved the World," a famed Lanny Wolfe song, became one of VBA's biggest covers throughout her career with her sophisticated Anita Baker vocal swoons and the flagship pop arrangement.

In the black gospel world, the song broke ground in Houston at the Gospel Music Workshop of America convention and was best illustrated with Cynthia Felder's warm soprano and infectious classical-like arpeggios piano works from Daniel Cason. This studio version added on to that fire and may have possibly surpassed the greatness of the GMWA classic. With Thomas Whitfield's magical fingers, Earl Wright's wise choice of synths and with its dreamy background vocals, the Armstrong version became an instant winner for gospel music lovers and created high hopes for a crossover R&B/pop career. Thank God she choose to remain faithful to her roots.

To read full album reviews of REVISITED #1 selected picks, click the following album covers.

[GOSPEL'S MASTER MINDS]
PRAYZEHYMN Mastercards [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]
PRAYZEHYMN Mastercards: Graduation [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]

September Is Gospel Music Heritage Month

2008-09-04T23:16:00.000-07:00

In conjunction with the Gospel Music Channel (GMC), the United States Senate and Members of Congress approved earlier this year that September 2008 (just this year only) would be recognized as Gospel Music Heritage Month. The legislation acknowledges gospel's heroes, veterans and trailblazers - both young and old - for their valuable sacrifices towards a music genre that has impacted American culture and has been streamlined into many of today's music genres including pop, rock, soul, country, hip-hop, R&B and jazz.

The celebration kicks off on the Gospel Music Channel with world and network premieres, documentaries, original specials, music videos and many other highlights that will educate and enlighten viewers on the heritage of gospel music.

Some of the specials and presentations set to take place on the network include:
+ Mahalia Sings! - Featuring performance videos and exclusive footage of Mahalia Jackson; hosted by Gospel legend Dorothy Norwood [Sundays at 7:00 p.m.]
+ Documentaries focusing on the musical contributions of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Al Green, the Dixie Hummingbirds and others
+ Faith & Fame series; biography details on Kirk Franklin, Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman, Walter Hawkins and others
+ 2008 BMI Trailblazer Awards - World television premiere
+ 2008 Stellar Awards re-broadcast
+ Bill Gaither & Dr. Bobby Jones specials

The celebration continues on online at www.gospelmusicheritage.com; featuring exclusive performances, expanded interviews, program schedule listings, e-cards, facts, trivia, calendar of events and much more.

“This is the opportunity for the millions of Gospel/Christian music fans to have their own national month to honor and celebrate the rich heritage of their music," said Charles Humbard, Founder and President of Gospel Music Channel.

[CELEBRATING GOSPEL IN SEPTEMBER]
Gospel Music Heritage [Official Website]

Niyoki's REST for the Weary

2008-08-28T01:06:00.000-07:00

-- PRESS RELEASE --

In 2006, D2G Records contemporary gospel and inspirational vocalist Niyoki (pronounced Nie-yo-kee), came on the gospel scene with her debut release, MY EVERYTHING. The project independently sold more than 15,000 copies, and spawned the hit single “He’s Here” (which ultimately reached the #8 position on Billboard’s Gospel chart and was named the 27th most-played gospel song of 2007 by the trade publication R&R (Radio and Records). Now she is back with her sophomore CD entitled REST which hit stores on August 19th via partnership with Executive Music Group and distribution by Fontana.

All 13 songs on REST were written and co-produced by Niyoki in collaboration with her four producers: Ralph B. Stacy (Mario, Dru Hill, Jagged Edge and K-Ci and JoJo); Antonio Neal (EMI Gospel recording artist and producer for Canton Jones, Darlene McCoy, and Kierra “Kiki” Sheard); and up-and-comers Floyd Thomas and Quintin X. Coleman. The first single, “Joy,” was shipped to radio in May, and is currently seated at the #40 on the BDS e-Chart.

Recorded while she was pregnant with her first child (Kedron Nero), REST is a solid collection of songs, each of which has a different sound and feel. REST crosses all musical genres to incorporate R&B, Jazz, rock and hip-hop all laced together with what Niyoki describes as “a central theme of hope and love for Jesus Christ.”

REST includes the beautiful and soothing “I Will Rest,” the high energy and driven single, “Joy,” the praise-filled “Where Would I Be?” and the earnestly prayerful “All That I Have.” These are just a few of the highlights featured on Niyoki’s new project which gives Niyoki a suitable platform on which to showcase the strength of her voice as well as her remarkable contralto-to-mezzo-soprano vocal range. “I was so much more comfortable with this project because I’d been there, done that,” said Niyoki who previously was part of the R&B group Milenia which Prince tapped to perform as his background vocalists. “I’m more settled in my thoughts, with my lyrics, and with what direction I wanted to go with the music. And more importantly, my relationship with God has evolved into a place of peace.”

To listen to JOY, the new single from her sophomore project, click here.

[THE REST IS HISTORY]
Niyoki Unplugged [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]
Niyoki; Album Review of Rest [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]
Niyoki [Official Website]
Niyoki [MySpace.com]
He's Here Music Video [MTV.com]

No VIBE for Tye Tribbett

2008-08-28T00:25:00.000-07:00

Wow, if I had wrote this review, I probably would have been viewed as one of the biggest haters in the industry. But I like to be honest and real with my readers...and I'm so glad that their are outlets out there in the press that are fighting to make a change and difference with the freedom of speech. Linda Hobbs of VIBE Magazine recently wrote a very truthful album review of Tye Tribbett & G.A's pop-less recent release, StandOut, and critically breaks the album down better than I did.

"If those fossilized relics we call “albums” have been replaced by the live show, then the leaders of the new school ought to be gospel artists, who get a chance to practice their chops every Sunday. The boss of this genre is Tye Tribbett, a young, beanpole-looking belter who dances orgasmically and grins like a madman. But unlike his stylistic predecessor Kirk Franklin, Tribbett hasn’t gotten much shine around pop land. StandOUT, his third album for a major label—and his second live effort—offers strong evidence for why he’s failed to hit the stratosphere. Like so many live zealots, Tribbett struggles to translate his rapturous stage presence beyond the congregation."

On the title track, Tribbett and his choir, Greater Anointing, begin with a holy order: “It’s time for you to choose whose side you’re going to be on /...all we have to do is stand /…Rise up!” But even with the Anointing, Tribbett can’t transcend. Take “Let Us Worship”: It’s big, bombastic—and boring. There’s clatter, but no impact. And “I Made It Through” fails to merge the old with the new: Tambourines, a schizo brass free-for-all, and an ecstatic organ blare as the choir squeals, “He’s so faithful!” And yes, He is…if only we could feel Him."

Now if i used words like "boring," "schizo" and "beanpole" in a review, would I be destined to go to hell? Many of my readers tend to think so. But let's not revisit the past.

To read the VIBE album review online, click here.

[TRIBBETT MAKES A TRIP]

Tye Tribbett and G.A. StandOut [VIBE Magazine]
Tye Tribbett and G.A. StandOut [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]
Tye Tribbett and G.A. Victory Live [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]
You've Got Hate Mail: The G.A. Responses [PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com]

Gospel Fall Lineup 2008

2008-08-26T01:07:00.000-07:00

As usual, plan to expect a drove of gospel album releases to hit retail this fall.

It seems like the gospel music industry prepares to toss out their very best releases, like Sweep's Week and Season Premieres hit the tube, during the fall. This year should be no exception.

The first project already getting major coverage and media support comes from John P. Kee and his beloved VIP Music and Arts Seminar convention. Live in Miami, featuring guest appearances from Earnest Pugh, Fred Hammond and LeJune Thompson, hits shelves nationwide on September 2. Expected radio favorites will be Kee and Lowell Pye's duet on "I'm Covered" and the infectious "Yes, We Can." Ain't it a strange coincidence that the song bears the same theme of Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama's campaign. The album will be released on Verity Records with distribution from Zomba.

On the same day, Verity plans to drop Revealed; the highly talked-about album release from Deitrick Haddon. In just two years, Haddon related projects including Tyscot's Together In Worship (2007) and Damita's No Looking Back (2008) . With production from Tim & Bob, Blaze, Baby Dubb Campbell and gospel veteran Percy Bady, Revealed will serve as the tenth album release from the hip-hop/urban gospel singer. And with mesmerizing cover art and photography, Haddon is bound to shake the industry with his blueprint of urban crossover gospel. The album, originally meant to drop August 19, will finally be released nationwide online and in retail stores on September 2.

Gospel's sweethearts Mary Mary will also reveal their latest musical experience - their fourth studio project - with The Sound. A follow up to their 2005 critically acclaimed effort Mary Mary, The Sound finds sisters Erica and Tina Campbell stretching their wings into realms rarely explored in gospel music. The disc melds the group’s love of truth-grounded gospel, mixed with patches of R&B, pop, soul, jazz, electronic/techno and then some. “We consider ourselves to be unpredictable,” Tina says. “We like to think that we’re innovative and original so you cannot figure out what our next move is and you can’t really define our ability or what you think the expectations are.” The lead single, "Get Up", has already been released to gospel and R&B radio and can be downloaded off of iTunes. The album - featuring production from Warryn "Baby Dubb" Campbell - officially drops on October 14 on the Columbia and Integrity Media music label.

Other noteworthy releases we will be sure to follow up on include:

September 16, 2008
Dottie Peoples
Do It
(DP Muzik Group)

September 23, 2008
Sean Simmonds
It's Over
(Xist Records/Tyscot)

September 30, 2008
Paul Porter
A New Day
(Light Records)

September 30, 2008
Terry Dexter
Listen
(Penny Gang's Records)

September 30, 2008
Take 6
The Standard
(Concord Music Group)

October 14, 2008
Stephen Hurd
Times of Refreshing
(Integrity Gospel)

October 28, 2008
Bishop Paul S. Morton & the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship Mass Choir
Cry Your Last Year
(Light Records/Tehillah)

October 28, 2008
Kierra Sheard
Bold Right Life
(EMI Gospel)

['08: NEW AND IMPROVED]
New Releases (July - Dec 08) [Nuthinbutgospel.com]
Summer Sizzlers of 2008 [PRAYZE Report]
Word Products, released Fall Quarter [Word Distribution]