Worship Music Is A Fad?

You've heard it here first. But hear it from the First Lady of Praise and Worship, Dr. Judith Christie-McAllister as she deals with the hype around the popularity of modern praise and worship. Many music labels are now forcing their artists to follow in these paths; causing artists to change their style and image overnight. A special interview or (gospelcast) at Nuthinbutgospel.com caught our attention and truly deserves attention. Good questions asked...and great answers delivered. Another reason why we just love this awesome woman of God.

Click on the link and look for the Judy interview.

[I LOVE JUDY]
The Gospelcast Page (NBG)

Judith Christie-McAllister Album Review (PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com)

Spiritual Enemas

OK. It's time to crack a good laff. After some painstaking research, we ran across a funny clip that sho'nuff needs to see the light of day. If you thought the "non-preaching brotha" and the "Holy Crap" clip was hilarious, wait 'til you see Mrs. Benny Hinn preaching under the "anointing". And yes, she pulls out the deep Jackie McCullough/Juanita Bynum/Suzie Owens gestures too. This one will have you running to the floor. Take my word for it.

Lord, I thank you for a sense of humor.

BTW, I know how to spell laugh. Remember, I'm from down-south.

Mrs. Benny Hinn (Reaplayer Video - 100k)
Click here to view

[GET YO' LAFF ON]
Mrs. Benny Hinn (Video)
Preaching Out Of Season

Holy Crap

The 9-10-11 Project

PRAYZEHYMN needs your help. We are looking for everyone...especially our supporters and friends...to help us out by donating to our money drive so that we can reach our 2006 budget. Our deadline is September 10, 2006 and our goal is to reach $1,100 dollars. An outline on this mission project has been outlined on the PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com webpage. We have even set up an exclusive PayPal account so individuals can send their donations online. Whether you decide to give $5, $10, $25, $50, $100 or even more...your support will aid us to accomplishing our longterm goals and help us in preserving gospel music and also to help cover the costs to keep PRAYZEHYMN around. Consider giving today.

[9-10-11...]

The 9-10-11 Project: Prologue

About Us
Donate

The PRAYZEHYMN Life

Well, life is full of possiblities and aspirations, goals and excitements.
Actually, its full of alot of things. But every month at PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com, we are hoping to focus on some very cool activities that makes a PRAYZEHYMN Life. I know...it's so cliche' sounding. But trust me, it will catch on.

PRAYZEHYMN Life is just one of the newest features to be posted on the PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com website and it covers an array of things including books, movies, television, gadgets, fashion, concerts, vacation & travel, food & cuisine and CDs. And since it is updated every month, it's almost like a mini-magazine. A magazine within a magazine. How cool is that?

BTW, you may want to be on the lookout for our soon-to-open PRAYZEHYMN Store. It is an extension of the PRAYZEHYMN Life. The buzz is circulating about the designs and the shirts.

The Big Kiss Good Night

After the airing of the BET Music Awards '06, word leaked out quick. Very quick.

The star-studded extravaganza, hosted by comedian and actor Damon Wayans, featured a superstar list of special guest performances and mesmeric tributes to living legends. Amongst the performers were actor Jamie Foxx, newbie Chris Brown, R&B diva Mary J. Blige and rapper T.I. But this was only the beginning for what the award show had to offered.

Hailed as being "the best award show on cable", the BET Music Awards launched a heavy load of top-notch entertainment on its viewers with several keynote highlights. Prince stormed the stage with two performances: one taking place during the special tribute to the legendary Chaka Khan and the last being a cut from his new album release closing the show. Gospel's dynamic duo, Mary Mary, also blessed the audience with "Yesterday"; which was sung in tribute to those that were ravaged by Hurricane Katrina. The emotional number left many eyes undried. Also, Chaka Khan joined in with an amazing ensemble including Stevie Wonder, Prince, India.Aire and Yolanda Adams on "I'm Every Woman". Interesting indeed. People are still creating a heavy buzz on Adams' musical contributions that night, in which she also sung "Sweet Thing". Her hardcore fan base may be upset over her choice to be a part of the soulful tribute, especially for singing risque' lyrics in "Sweet Thing". Could it be possible that Adams' could venture into mainstream R&B soon?

But all of that was just the topping of the cake. The headlining event focused on Jamie Foxx, in the middle of his call-and-response segment on "DJ Play Me A Song", surprise guest Fantasia joined the stage and delivered a passionate, lock-and-load tongue-kiss. The segment is now being hailed as one of the sweatiest smooches in music show history. We are not sure if Fantasia can recover from such a thing, but we are certain that still-single-and-ready-to-mingle Jamie Foxx can. Do not expect Fantasia to jump on a gospel project anytime soon.

Expect for BET to re-air the show in re-runs during the next couple of months. Definite highlights from the occasions are captured below.

[BET SHOWDOWN]

BET.com

The Best Award Show On Cable? (Yahoo! Finance)

BET Steps Up Black Music (Pioneer Press)

MTV Coverage of BET Awards (MTV.com)

Ruben Wins In Court

According to The Birmingham News, gospel star and American Idol champ Ruben Studdard has been awarded $2 million in litigation against his former manager for misappropriating the singer's funds. Studdard received $500,000 for actual losses and $1,500,000 in punitive damages. The suit alleged that Ronald Edwards, ex-manager and longtime friend of Studdard, took money from the singer's checking and other bank accounts, and used his credit cards to repay debt and for personal purchases.

The former American Idol winner will be releasing his forthcoming project, "The Return of the Velvet Teddy Bear", on J Records later this year.

[MORE PRECIOUS THAN RUBEES]

American Idol Champ Wins (EURWeb.com)

Ruben Studdard (Official Website)

Ruben Studdard Foundation

PRAYZEHYMN Makeover

Glad to say that PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com has experienced a nice makeover this month. New songs are in the Music Center, the versatility of the etc. [Prayze Place] page gets a nice "hook-up", and more reviews are being added each week. Plus, feel free to check out our brand-new feature, WHAT'S PLAYING ON YOUR IPOD. This month, we ask former American Idol contestant Anwar Robonson what songs are getting major play on his mp3 player. How cool is that?

Also get your vote on at Gallup to the Polls...it's on the front page!

Much more features and articles are also on the way...so stay posted.

[PRAYZEHYMN UP-CLOSE]
PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com (Main Page)
PRAYZEHYMN Music Center
etc.

A Good Look at Billy Preston

William Everett Preston (September 9, 1946 – June 6, 2006) was an American soul musician from Houston, Texas, raised mostly in Los Angeles, California. He began playing piano while sitting on his mother's lap at age three. Preston collaborated with some of the greatest names in the music industry, including the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Little Richard, Ray Charles, George Harrison, Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, Sam Cooke, Sammy Davis Jr., Sly Stone, Aretha Franklin, the Jackson 5, Quincy Jones, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. One of only two non-Beatles to receive a credit on a Beatles single, he played the electric piano on "Get Back" during the band's rooftop concert in 1969. He is one of several people sometimes credited as the "Fifth Beatle".

Preston was in and around show business for much of his life. He was taking piano lessons at age 3 and was just 10 when he played keyboards for gospel singer Mahalia Jackson. Two years later he portrayed a young W.C. Handy; played as an adult by Nat "King" Cole — in the 1958 biopic "St. Louis Blues." He toured with mentors and fellow piano greats Ray Charles and Little Richard in the early 1960s, first encountering the Beatles while on the road in Germany.

Cole's daughter, singer Natalie Cole, said she appreciated Preston "and his musical genius over the two decades we crossed personal and professional paths," adding: "He is my favorite keyboardist of all times."

Billy Preston began his career playing in the bands of Little Richard and Ray Charles as a keyboardist, however he was probably best known for his work with the Beatles. He played on their 1970 Let It Be album and on the songs "I Want You (She's So Heavy)" and "Something", from 1969's Abbey Road. Signed to their Apple label, in 1969, Preston released the album That's the Way God Planned It and a single of the same name (produced by George Harrison). His relationship with Harrison continued after the break up of The Beatles; he was the first artist to record My Sweet Lord (the single flopped), and he was on several of George's 70's solo albums. Preston also made notable and energetic contributions to the Concert for Bangladesh, a Harrison-organised charity concert, and, after George's death, the Concert for George. Preston also worked on solo recordings by two other ex-Beatles, John Lennon and Ringo Starr.

After the Beatles, Preston played keyboards for the Rolling Stones, alongside pianist Nicky Hopkins. Preston appears on the Stones' albums Sticky Fingers, Exile on Main Street, Goats Head Soup, It's Only Rock'n Roll and Black and Blue. He toured as a support act with the Stones in 1973, and recorded his live album Live in Europe in Munich with Mick Taylor on guitar. In 1974 composed one of Joe Cocker's biggest hits You Are So Beautiful. In 1975 he became the first musical guest on Saturday Night Live. In 1975 and 1976 he again toured with the Stones, this time getting to play two of his own songs, backed by the Stones, in the middle of every concert. The Stones and Preston parted company in 1977, mainly due to a row over money. He continued to play on solo records by Stones members, and made an appearance again on the Stones' 1997 Bridges to Babylon album.

During the 70s, Preston enjoyed a greal deal of success with a string of popular singles, including "Outta-Space" (a Grammy winner), "Nothing From Nothing" and "Will It Go Round In Circles". He also dueted with Syretta Wright on the classic love ballad, "With You I'm Born Again" in 1980.

The 1980s were lean years for Preston. He was arrested and convicted for insurance fraud after setting fire to his own house in Los Angeles, and he was treated for alcohol and cocaine addictions. In 1991, he entered no-contest pleas to the cocaine and assault charges. He was sentenced to nine months at a drug rehabilitation center and three months of house arrest.

Preston managed to conquer his problems in the early 1990s, and toured with Eric Clapton, and recorded with a wide range of artists.

Preston participated in the tribute concert "Concert for George Harrison" at Royal Albert Hall and his performance of My Sweet Lord has received critical acclaim. He also recorded on the last album of Ray Charles. He toured with The Funk Brothers and Stevie Winwood in Europe in early 2004 and then with his friend Eric Clapton in Europe and North America. It has been claimed that his big contribution to the Beatles' sound was made clear with the release of the Let it be naked album.

Preston played clavinet on the song "Warlocks" for the Red Hot Chili Peppers album Stadium Arcadium released in 2006. Although very ill, he jumped out of bed after hearing a tape of the song given to him by the band, recorded his part, and went back to bed. Preston's final contribution was playing Gospel-tinged organ on the Neil Diamond album, 12 Songs. He also recorded a gospel project, "Music From my Heart", on MCG Records and also guest appeared on John P. Kee's VIP Music and Artis Seminar Mass Choir video presentation of "Stand!"; which revealed him working a storm on the Hammond organ.

Gospel musician Andrae Crouch, whose friendship and musical collaboration with Preston spanned four decades, said he had a knack for knowing how to play a song.

"If I played a new idea, he would know where to put it and in what category," said Crouch, who has performed with Quincy Jones and Elton John. "He was the best keyboard player in the world ... It was like having a harmonica in his mouth. He had that much control over it."

He is survived by two sisters. Rodena Preston-Williams, one of his sisters, is the Mass Choir Music Director and Chapter Representatives of the Gospel Music Workshop of America.

[MORE ON BILLY BOY]
Billy Preston (Official Site)
Billy Preston (AllMusic.com)
Singer-songwriter Billy Preston dies at 59 (Yahoo/AP)

Confessions On The Dance Floor

Just when you thought that gospel music was safe. Recently in Detroit, the latest news break seems to prove that even those led to do ministry aren't always the ones to totally trust. Ryan Baker is well known in Detroit church circles for his ministry of hip-hop dance and choreography and is known in gospel circles for performing on stage with gospel sensation Dorinda Clark-Cole. He can be seen dancing on her DVD presentation "Dorinda Clark-Cole Live" (GospoCentric) and has delivered presentations at conferences, concerts and with other big names in gospel music. The announcement of Baker being a confessed and convicted sexual pedophile sends an alarming message to the public and to the religious communities - about a disturbing pattern of poor self-control and unforgivable patterns of carnal hunger that tends to be a major hypocrisy to those whom passionate about their walk with God.

The announcement began to emerge to the surface when one woman, who didn't want to be identified, came to the public to confess her story regarding her involvement with the popular dancer. She knows Brother Baker and initially thought highly of him and his work. "It's like an anointing he has to touch people through his dance ministry, especially the kids because that's the kind of dance he does," she said.

The woman said she knows the dark and disturbing secret Brother Baker himself surely never mentions in church or anywhere else his interest in young boys like her 14-year-old son. "He made him take his clothes off and he fondled him," she said.

Baker admitted it almost immediately and repeated the confession in front of his parents and others from the church shortly thereafter. The woman said she went to the police a couple of days later, though she claims the church folks pressured her not to, to let them handle it.

According to the WXYZ.com website, after their two-part exclusive on the breaking news, he was given supervision by a probation officer and was ordered not to perform in the company with minors. After Steve Wilson of WXYZ News (of Detroit) entered an investigation on him, he learned that he completely did the opposite. He performed at the Soul Train Music Awards. While on probabtion, which was in the company with other minors and after he was told not to leave the state of Michigan. and he continued to perform at local churches in the city of Detroit. Video tapes of him recently performing at those churches were even displayed in front of a perplexed Baker according to the news station, after Wilson of WXYZ confronted him in person. Since that incident, Baker has run across a dead end and was on his way to jail after he was caught for a second time violating his probation after he confessed to molesting a woman's 14-year old son.

That woman said, "He said when the Vaseline hit the bed, he realized what was going on and locked himself in the closet. He made him take his clothes off and he fondled him and he was in the process of penetrating him, but it didn't get to that point."

Baker's fine is pretty confusing to some, especially when you look at the severity of the issue. He got no jail time for the sexual assaults, but will do thirty days in jail for the violation of his probation and could possibly do two years in the pokey.

Pastor J. Drew Sheard of Greater Emmanuel Institutional Church of God In Christ (whom is married to gospel legend Karen Clark-Sheard - the sister of Dorinda Clark-Cole) spoke about the situation and was not aware of Baker's problems. He has also stated that Baker has not performed or ministered at his church since the news break.

Looks like Dorinda is going to need a new background dancer. But we prefer she sing without dancers. They just get in the way.

[DANCE TO THE LINKS]

Church Pedophile Part I (WXYZ News)
Church Pedophile Part II (WXYZ News)

Mt. Calvary Has A New Cross

"It takes a real man to confess Jesus as Lord and Savior. I'm not talking about no faggot or no sissy. I mean a real man who has made up their mind ...Let all the real men come on down here and take a bow." - excerpt from a Bishop Alfred Owens sermon (Palm Sunday, 2006)

We barely take the time to cover serious issues in the church, but it seems this story just couldn't escape our media radar. Bishop Alfred A. Owens, senior pastor of the renowned and prominent Greater Mount Calvary Holy Church in Washington, D.C., couldn't help but used derogatory words in his pulpit towards homosexuals and lesbians. Many have cited in the press that this kind of behavior at Mt. Calvary is not uncommon, but this time the mayor of D.C. and candidates for this year's race for the mayoral office are unhappy about it. The Washington Post reported that several major candidates for D.C. mayor have stated their concerns for black pastors to become more tolerant for homosexuals - with a greater emphasis on refraining from hateful language or venomous homophobia.

Excerpts of the message have been floating across the Internet for the last couple of weeks, and with a close and discerning ear, you can pinpoint Owens' fiery tone in his voice aiming towards a uncomfortable issue for him. But according to City Paper, many gay men attend Mt. Calvary, even after the Palm Sunday sermon. Since then, Owens attempted to apologize for his actions in the media, but returned back to the pulpit seeking for prayers and support - stating that he will not back down from his views at all. Regardless of what, the tone of his usage of words like "faggot" and "sissies" almost sounds like those hateful phrases of "nigger" and "bi$%&". Just when you thought we moved one step forward in God's unconditional love, we tend to take one step back towards hate. But what is so overwhelming is how Owens and his staff wants to condemn the bulk of his church in such a harsh tone. Ain't it kinda too late for that now? Things that make you go hmmmmm.

[OWENS RUNS A HURDLE]

Washington City Paper Sermon Preview (MP3)
Owens Media Apology (Washington Post)

More Gay Bashing From The Pulpit (Washington City Paper)

What Legends Are Made Of

Oprah Winfrey knows how to party. And when she does, she's going to put her all into it. Such was the case when she decided to pull together a list of twenty-five legendary African-American women in the fields of entertainment, civil rights and art for a very special event of a lifetime. The plan: to organize a Legends Ball uniting both the legends with superstars highly influenced by their contributions. The end result was sheer brilliance. And unforgettable.

Winfrey and her Harpo staff taped the festivities which included an unforgettable luncheon, a glamorous white-tie ball and a heart-busting gospel brunch to close the schedule of events. And if you missed the feature presentation on Monday, we are very sorry to hear of that. Really.

The twenty-five legends honored were Maya Angelou, Shirley Caesar, Diahann Carroll, Elizabeth Catlett, Ruby Dee, Katherine Dunham, Roberta Flack, Aretha Franklin, Nikki Giovanni, Dorothy Height, Lena Horne, Coretta Scott King, Gladys Knight, Patti LaBelle, Toni Morrison, Rosa Parks, Leontyne Price, Della Reese, Diana Ross, Naomi Sims, Tina Turner, Cicely Tyson, Alice Walker, Dionne Warwick and Nancy Wilson. Nice list, aint it.

The historic weekend began Friday with a private luncheon at Oprah's Montecito home where the "legends" were greeted by the "young'uns" -- acclaimed stars, including Alicia Keys, Ashanti, Angela Bassett, Halle Berry, Mary J. Blige, Brandy, Naomi Campbell, Kathleen Battle, Yolanda Adams, Mariah Carey, Natalie Cole, Kimberly Elise, Missy Elliott, Tyra Banks, Iman, Janet Jackson, Phylicia Rashad, Debbie Allen and Alfre Woodard, among others. Throughout the weekend, the "young'uns" paid homage to the "legends" for their great contributions. World-renowned event planner Colin Cowie attended to every detail, and Grammy Award-winner John Legend performed his hit song, "Ordinary People." Of course, any of the legends could have sung a song and would have turned the celebration into a revival, but John Legend's appearance allowed the legends to sit back and enjoy the moment while he serenaded them with his trademark anthem.

On Saturday night, it was an elegant white-tie Legends Ball with notable guests, including Sidney Poitier, Tom Cruise, Katie Holmes, Usher, Barbra Streisand, James Brolin, Lionel Richie, John Travolta, Kelly Preston, Diane Sawyer, Smokey Robinson, Mike Nichols, Maria Shriver, Chris Tucker, Barbara Walters, Quincy Jones, Spike Lee, Senator Barack Obama and Tyler Perry, among many others. A prolific poem was read as the "young-ins" took the stage to once again celebrate the achievements of the legends. Then, it was dancing time...with music from Michael McDonald, Ashford & Simpson, BeBe Winans and many others.

The finale of the Legends weekend was Sunday's exuberant gospel brunch. And what a way to close out the memorable occasion. Denetria Champ, with her Aretha Franklin-influenced pipes, kicked things off with a spirited selection from her recent album. Then BeBe Winans lead a dynamic arrangement of Donnie McClurkin's "Stand". But the service lifted to a glorious, soaring segment of rich devotion when Edwin, Walter and Lynette Hawkins pulled out the all-time favorite "Changed". BeBe Winans walked into the audience and extended the microphone to the legends - and the rest was divine. Shirley Caesar wrecked the song with her preaching style of ad-libs, then Dionne Warwick revealed a smooth ad-lib that amazed almost everyone present. Never before had we heard Warwick sing a song of faith like this. Yolanda Adams also sung a good portion, while Patti Labelle and Gladys Knight offered up a good deal of spiritual dynamics. But it was the acclaimed Chaka Khan that had everyone, from Ashanti to Mariah Carey, from Shirley Caesar to Walter Hawkins himself, lifting hands in mighty worship to God.

We are extra-positive that this will calm down Oprah's haters in the church for a while. At least, we hope so. Regardless of what happens, Oprah is also a legend. And for her to honor those that opened doors not only for her, but for all African-Americans and minorities, is a beautiful and humble thing. One of her strongest quotes she delivered was: "And still, this wasn't enough...they deserve so much more". That clearly speaks volumes of respect, gratitude and passion for such trailblazers. We seriously pray this event is re-televised again...or makes its way to DVD in a full-length form. It was just that good. Oprah's Legends Ball - two thumbs way up!

The Da Vinci Cold

*cough cough*

Seems like the church is having a good time trying to counterattack the Ron Howard' motion picture, "The Da Vinci Code"; slated to be hit the box office this weekend. Critics have bashed the film during its opening at the 59th Cannes Film Festival. Hisses and catcalls were tossed at the film when the credits rolled and help staged the film for national release with most of the public's disapproval. More trouble is coming from Christian groups in several countries, who are angry with the film's mix of fact and fiction involving Jesus Christ and Roman Catholicism.

Seems like people are coughing and sneezing to the mixed and controversial views and portrayals of Jesus Christ and the church. Christian networks and shows have spent a number of weeks preparing for the opening day of the film with their hours of criticizing and bashing of the film. Some are calm to state that the book is fiction and should not be taken serious: just mere entertainment. But in some cases, like below the Bible Belt, conservatives are not calm to catching this cold. They would rather stay home...except for those that are comfortable with just "mere entertainment".

Regardless of how the final outcome of this film goes, the expectations of the Da Vinci Code being one of the breakthrough films for the summer is definite. Sure to skyrocket to #1 at the Box Office - but we are wondering what will happen when the curtain goes up and the lights are no longer dimmed.

[DA VINCI MADNESS]

Da Vinci Code meets with catcalls (CNN.com)
Da Vinci Code Misses The Mark For Critics (Yahoo)
Review: Da Vinci Code (ChristianityToday.com)

Clark Sisters: Hit Me One More Time

Dorinda Clark-Cole, Karen Clark-Sheard, Twinkie Clark and Jacky Clark-Chislom will be united one more time for a special live recording session as the Clark Sisters; after fans have prayed and requested for the legendary group to tease today's generation with their classic brand of contemporary gospel covered with their very own traditional R&B ointment. For years, the Clark Sisters have been hailed as being one of the chief innovators for female groups in both R&B and gospel circles and helped launch the success of groups such as EnVogue, Xscape (who also re-recorded one of the Clark Sisters' hits, "Is My Living In Vain?"), SWV, the Anointed Pace Sisters, Witness and Virtue. Their sophisticated Detroit style, heavily influenced by the late Dr. Mattie Moss Clark, along with their strict spiritual upbringing helped to mold the crop into Gospel's latest sensations during the late 1970s and 80s.

After recording a series of albums beginning from 1973 to 1979 on the Sound of Gospel (SOG) label, the Clark Sisters had already proved that they were definitely a force to be reckoned with. They began to share equal billing at concerts with Rev. James Cleveland, Shirley Caesar and Walter Hawkins. The Clark Sisters finally left the small, local based SOG with a bang with the heavy-dance hit, "You Brought The Sunshine" in 1983. The cut was so huge that even SOG needed help, using Westbound (their secular label) and serious distribution from Elektra to meet the massive demands. Word Records, along with the Rejoice! music label, signed them immediately releasing "Sincerely", "Heart & Soul", "Conqueror" and "Bringing It Back Home". In 1994, the Clark Sisters recorded their last project, "Miracle" and provided the opportunity for the group to go their separate ways to achieve their lifelong dreams in ministry, music and in their personal lives. Twelve years later, the Clark Sisters reunite once again to finally end their wonderful musical career as a group with grace. Many may not want to hear of this being a farewell - maybe they will continue to record together on one another's projects like they have during the last couple of years. But we all are grateful to know that this will be a live recording...and probably the Who's Who in gospel, R&B and mainstream music will be there ready to experience history in the making.

You probably may need to mark your dates and plan ahead for this one; even if you are COGIC. The world will be watching and waiting.

RECORDING INFORMATION:
DATE: July 8, 2006
PLACE: Annual Church Of God In Christ AIM Convention, George R. Brown Convention Center
TIME: 6:00 p.m.
ADMISSION: $12.00
SPECIAL GUESTS: Kierra "KiKi" Sheard, others to be announced
ALBUM PRODUCERS/MUSICIANS: Not available

[CLARK CONNECTIONS]
The Clark Sisters Website/Fan Club
COGIC AIM Convention

Taylor Hicks Arrives

Early Friday morning, the American Idol contestant from Season Five stepped on Alabama soil once again. It is his home. And while this may be a bit of de ja vu for some watchers of the over-popular reality TV show, Taylor Hicks, 29, is the third Alabama contestant to ever reach the Top 3 in all of its seasons. And what an incredible journey it has been for one of America's "underdog states".

But Taylor is in no way an underdog in this year's competition. He has never been in the bottom 2 or 3, and he has picked up a heavy and very supportive army of fans and supporters that dig his soulful style, his energetic performances and his lovable personality on-stage. While he is mostly known for his grey hair and his silly dance moves, it is his amazing vocals that has sent America to the phones to vote for him each and every week; hoping he would claim the American Idol title. People are even calling him the next Elvis...funny they would say that after he rocked the stage with his jumpy rendition of "Jailhouse Rock". But one thing is for certain: Taylor Hicks bears enough soul to make Elvis shake a good foot.

Last week, Chris Daughtry - one whom thought would seal the deal and go home easily as the winner of the AI season - went home. It shocked everyone...even Taylor Hicks' fans. This leaves the Soul Patrol in a very comfortable position - since the threat of him leaving the show sooner floats off in a distance. Now he is parading through the city of Birmingham, down through Linn Park with FOX 6-News anchormen hosting the festivities. High school bands are playing, cheerleaders are jumping and fans from both sides of the color spectrum are shouting with joy for the next torchbearer for the city of Birmingham. He also made a few other visits: one to the Riverchase Galleria and the other being Montgomery, Alabama. But will return for a final send-off at the Birmingham Museum of Art.

One thing that Hicks is fortunate in being a part of is the revival of real soul music. He may be a white boy, but he has soul. And he is not ashamed of that. The other contender in this year's AI competition is another soul fanatic. Probably the better vocalist in the competition, Elliot Yamin could also take the crown with his sultry vocals, his charming vibrato and that fiery blackness in his voice.

Regardless of what, the soul revival is on...we just hope this will revive the flames of real music in the hearts of urban and suburban America. Let real music play again on the radio...enough of the rapping and cuzzing for a minute...let's get back to real instrumentation, real vocals, just real music.

Verity vs. Tonex

Get your controllers ready.

Circulating across the Internet are reports of Verity Records (a subsidiary of Zomba/BMG Recording Corporation) attempting to sue Mr. Anthony C. Williams, II (formerly or currently known as Tonex') for an unprecedented amount of $1 million dollars. Most of the charges against the "retired" gospel artist surround the reports of slander he used in various media outlets including his MySpace.com webpage about "mistreatment" and "desires to break ties with the record company".

An unknown and fabricated article (possibly written by supporters of Mr. Williams) is being posted on GospelCity.com, EnSound Entertainment, GospelSpotlight.com and other gospel media outlets and does not give further details on the lawsuit or general information that we normally expect from articles from renowned sources such as the Associated Press.

The article tends to be one-sided and does not feature any quotes from the plaintiffs in this case and also features information on how to donate monies to Tonex' during this crisis.

Tonex' has cited before, and mentions again in the suspicious article, that he is broke and barely surviving financially. But he is hopeful that he will overcome in court. He has retained San Francisco entertainment lawyer, Courtney M. Coates, Esq., of Hanson, Bridgett, Marcus, Vlahos & Rudy to prosecute his California case. New York attorney, Londelle McMillan, Esq. of The McMillan Law Firm will probably defend Tonex' in the New York lawsuit, according to the article.

After careful review, I know that this kind of lawsuit is extremely serious. In previous blogs entries, we have reported Tonex's remarks on the industry, his claims of retiring (before his contract expired which is a breach of contract to a great degree), and slandering the company he was once an employee of. Regardless of his feelings towards Verity Records and Zomba, they are the largest music company in the country and has a roster that includes Kirk Franklin, Donnie McClurkin, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Hezekiah Walker, Kurt Carr, Marvin Sapp, Donald Lawrence, John P. Kee, Fred Hammond and many others. We are certain that much of the important details on both sides have not leaked into the public arena, so we are sure the courts will reach a very reasonable conclusion of justice.

Verity Records has a website and can be reached at: www.verityrecords.com

[THE SUSPICIOUS ARTICLE]

Read At Ensound Entertainment
Read At GospelCity.com

[MORE TONEX-TERTAINMENT]

Final Tonex' Update

More On Tonex': Not Enough Space

Tonex' Interview with KJLH Radio

Out The Box For Good

Tony Terry: Kodak Moment

There are some artists that seriously need no introduction at all. Their music speaks for themselves. Anyone that had an ear for good R&B during the early 90s can easily recall the prized favorites of that time. Artists like PM Dawn, Al B Sure, Johnny Gill, Mary J. Blige, SWV, Mariah Carey, Babyface, Boyz II Men, TLC and Envouge may come to mind. But did you forget to think of Tony Terry; the radiant and charming voice of young love whom stormed the airwaves with hits like "With You" and "Lovey Dovey". Of course you didn't. And also, he doesn't need an intro either.

But let it go on record that while his resume' has grown since then, you may want to rejoice over his most recent run-in with gospel music on his latest project, "Changed!". While Terry has mentioned he is not forsaking his musical career in R&B, he wanted to express his faith on record and render to the masses a project reflecting his gratitude to God for His many blessings.

In a recent interview on Miss Jones in the Morning (HOT 97, NEW YORK) Terry told listeners, “I am grateful to God for all I’ve been able to achieve, but I’m not finished yet!”

Inside his latest project is a nice photo spread, using impressive lighting and a very sensual side of the R&B crooner. We felt led to share those images with you...definitely proving that homeboy still has the looks. And after a good listen of the album, he also proves he has those incredible vocals as well.

[TERRY SPOTLIGHTS]
Tony Terry Official Website

Tony Terry Gets "Lovey Dovey" With God (EUR Web)
Album Review (PRAYZEHYMN)

Buy "Changed!" for $12.99 (Super Duper Club)

Jerry Mannery Steps Down

Malaco Records is going through major changes. This week, it was announced that Jerry Mannery, longtime Executive Director of the Gospel Division at the Malaco Music Group, will be stepping down from his longtime position and will be working with OwenMorris Communications, based in Chicago, as Client Service Director and Entertainment Marketing Director. As for the Malaco void, D.A. Johnson was promoted to the vacancy and will oversee the gospel divisions of Malaco Records which include: Savoy Records, Malaco Records, Muscle Shoals Gospel Records, and Atlanta International Records. Mannery was instrumental in helping to start the Mississippi Mass Choir with the late Frank Williams and for many years remained their Executive Director. He also was responsible for the new birth of gospel music from 1989-1995 which placed Malaco Records on the map; dominating Billboard and Cashbox charts with successful releases from the Mississippi Mass Choir, LaShun Pace, Rev. Clay Evans, Ricky Dillard & the New Generation Chorale, Dorothy Norwood and Rev. James Moore.

They usually say change is good...we hope that this is for the best. We wish Jerry Mannery much success as he moves on with his career and pray God's Blessings upon Malaco Records during this mode of important transition.

[MORE ON MANNERY AND MALACO]
DA Johnson Appointed Executive Director (Gospelcity.com)

Malaco Music Group (Official Website)

[ph blogcast] Limited Time Only!

Ready. Set. Click. Download.
In just seven days the new PRAYZEHYMN Blogcast will be temporarily removed. And only 25 PRAYZEHYMN-fanatics can download the exclusive file. So check it out.

This time around, we heat things up with 30-minutes of glorious running time - covering various topics and neat conversational pieces related to gospel music - our "You've Got Mail!" addition - 2 neat songs - addressing da "haterade" and a whole lotta' more. Download your version on your computer, mp3 player or ipod today. Just make sure you are using a hi-speed connection. The file is pretty large.

Oh, and there's much more to come.

[DOWNLOAD & LISTEN]
PRAYZEHYMN Blogcast (Apr. 18)

-temporarily down-

Preaching Out Of Season

Um, not sure if you got a hold of this sound clip, but this one is worth hearing. To some, this is not worth hearing it. It all depends on if you can take it. My commentary on this: Everyone ain't called to preach. This sound clip literally proves that.

Hope you enjoy. Just one piece of advice: If you are at work, please wear earphones for this one. We don't want sensational laughter to invade the workplace and to get the supervisor's attention.

[DOWNLOAD & LISTEN]

Everybody Ain't Call To Preach (MP3)

Dr. Charles Fold Passes

During the time period of 1968-1974, Rev. James Cleveland began to perfect his style and craft; reshaping the models of traditional gospel music as it relates to choirs. He had an inner lust for perfected harmonies and desired to instill that on his recordings - predominately used in a live recording setting. He hit it big with the Angelic Choir of Nutley, a church choir based in New Jersey, during this time period and began to search for other choirs to release his newfound, effective formula with. In 1975, Cleveland decided to record with a new group based in Cincinnati, Ohio called the Charles Fold Singers and history was made as the album, "Jesus Is The Best Thing That Ever Happened To Me", went gold the following year and the title cut, a rendition of the Gladys Knight hit, was nominated for a Grammy. He later reduplicated that success with "Touch Me" in 1976 which featured the hits "May The Lord God Bless You Real Good", "Say You Love Me" and the title cut.

Fold became instrumental for helping to develop the Gospel Music Workshop of America (GMWA); serving as active president over the GMWA Chapter Representatives. He, along with the Charles Fold Singers, went on to record over twelve albums and won a Grammy in 1981. He was best known for his powerful vocal abilities, directing skills, and for accompanying many artists during the 1970s and 80s on piano. He passed away Friday, April 7, 2006, after "a period of failing health" (quote taken from Gospelflava.com). He will be missed and will be celebrated for his active ministry and contributions towards the gospel music industry.

Funeral and tribute arrangements are as follows:

Friday, April 21, 2006

Visitation:
5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Lincoln Heights Missionary Baptist Church
9991 Wayne Avenue
Lincoln Heights (Cincinnati), OH 45215
(513) 772-5422

Musical:
7 p.m.
Lincoln Heights Missionary Baptist Church

Saturday, April 22, 2006
Calling:
9 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Service:
10 a.m.
Crossroad Community Church
3500 Madison Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45209
(513) 731-7400

The photo below was scanned from the photo spread on the James Cleveland and the Charles Fold Singers Volume 2- Recorded Live "Touch Me" album.

[FOLD DEPARTS]

Dr. Charles Fold Passes (Gospelflava.com)
Gospel Music Workshop of America