Shirley Goes To Jail

Well, we all were desperate in getting our tickets to see Tyler Perry's latest creation, "Madea Goes To Jail". But you might want to hold out for a minute and catch the latest gospel craze. More like crazy.

Pastor Shirley Caesar, mostly refered as the Queen of Gospel Music, embraced the Grand Ol' Opry stage at the 21st Stellar Awards (actually who's really counting) with a performance of her newest single from her highly-talked about "I Know The Truth" project.

On her set, Shirley sung a traditional tune tucked in a country-flavored batter called "Jailbird" with Rev. Dallas Lockett dueting with her. Caesar is telling a story about a man who gets time in the pokey. That's where Lockett comes in. He plays the victim in the song. And with a fake background enclosed behind him of jailbars and a prop choir lip-synching with glee, you begin to wonder if this is all we can afford for a 2006 performance on a televised gospel award show. The song was so frustrating to me that I decided to turn the TV off for good.

I'll just stick to Madea...especially when I am certain I can count on hearing some good gospel music and will witness a better grade of excellence. Hey, I know I will get my $45 dollars worth. Otherwise, I'll just wait for the DVD.

Some extra highlights I didn't miss during the Stellars:
1) What happened to Fred's head? He's looking like Predator. Not good.
2) Do we need to buy Deitrick a comb?
3) Ain't Vickie on that Star Jones' diet? Just wondering.
4) Donald may have swept the Awards, but didn't he look...like...he...needed some of that ProActive?
5) What the heck are we wearing to these award shows?
6) Jonathan Nelson accepted the award for "I'm Healed", but is it Donald's award or Jonathan's. I'm confrused (yes, I spelt it right...lol)

If I think of anything else, I'll post it later on. Keep praying for the gospel community.

Stellar Recap

January 21, 2006 is behind us and the Awards have been giving out. And even though alot of people would rather wait to see the results delivered on the local airings of the televised 21st Annual Stellar Awards (the GRAMMYS to the gospel community) on their local cable networks and stations, we have decided to post a nice recap on the final resuts. And just to hint at the anguish we have been raging about regarding the Stellar's controversial voting pool, you can see just from all of the victories Donald Lawrence witnessed that this thing is a "fixed" situation.

Lawrence had powerful and well-received albums in the past, even better sales, with projects like "Bible Stories" and "Tri-City4.com". But for the first time in the Stellar Awards' history, since its inception, this one sinks the Titanic all together. Eight awards all together go to D. Lawrence for his "I Speak Life" album; a project fewed by many critics to be a strong disappointment. One successful single ("Healed") was released from that album, and J. Moss, a guy that experienced a powerful series of singles ranging from "We Must Praise", "I Wanna Be" and "Psalm 150", only took home three. Dr. Charles G. Hayes & the Warriors (along with "Jesus Can Work It Out Remix" vocalist Dianne Williams) impressed plenty, by talking home three awards. Several established artists whom decided to release independent projects and decided to walk out on faith were also honored, such as Lil' iRocc Williams, Walter Hawkins, Mark S. Hubbard & the Voices and Sounds of Blackness. Mary Mary only gets one. It was also shocking to see well deserved saxophonist Kirk Whalum take home a well deserved award for Instrumental CD of the Year.

But there were more disappointments than overwhelming joy. But that's usually the case.

I'm beginning to agree with Tonex' on this one. The industry, especially the gospel, has a lot of growing up to do.

[STELLAR LINKS]

Stellar Awards' Website

The Winners (Gospelflava.com)

Stellar Awards' TV Listings
Donald Lawrence Wins Big (AP on Yahoo)

Out The Box For Good

Oh boy. It just seems like more and more drama is falling upon the gospel music community each and every day. The latest falls on Stellar Award winning and highly-controversial contemporary gospel artist Tonex'. In an entry posted on his official blog, Tonex' mentions his disgusts towards the church, cyber saints, the industry and church folks and decided to bow out and retire from the music industry. We can agree with him - it is full of alot of mess. But...we are pretty sure Tonex' will bounce back. All that creative talent in one brotha - I'm very sure God won't allow him to place it all under a bushel to rest forever.

We are not sure if he's ceasing from preaching or giving up on Christianity, even though he clearly states his faith in Christianity is fading and is stressed due to "financial and emotional hardship".

You can read up on the blog entry by clicking here. And no, it's not bogus. It's all right here.

Now I'm wondering if Gospelflava is gonna publicize this.

[TONEX'S RESOURCES]

Official Website
Blog (Tonex' on MySpace.com)

Soul Under Fire

Say the words Angela, Isaac, Wilson and Lou in one or two sentences to any soul music lover and you are bound to see teardrops of wrecking agony. That's because the last couple of weeks has been an emotional trainwreck for fans of musical giants in the R&B and soul communities.

After grieving over the loss of R&B singing sensation Lou Rawls, we now mourn the departure of Wilson Pickett. Dubbed "Wicked Pickett" by Atlanta Records' former executive and producer Jerry Wexler for his uncanny style of singing and screaming vocals, Pickett, an Alabama native, released multiple hits in the style of "rock and roll meets soul" in the 1960s with "Mustang Sally", "Soul Survivor", "634-5789" and "In The Midnight Hour". He continued to tour the U.S. and Europe with his amazing mix of passionate energy and raspy singing, until his health recently took a turn for the worst. Yet he was optimistic to returning back to the musical soundstage, according to music journalist Roger Friedman. Pickett passed away at the age of 64 from a massive heart attack.

Another musical giant best known for his deep masculine voice, his occasional rap/talk sessions and his irresistible skill of writing and arranging songs, Isaac Hayes, was recently hospitalized on Wed, Jan 18 in Memphis suffering from exhaustion. Longtime friend and co-writer David Porter with Hayes on hits such as "Gee Whiz", "Soul Man" and "Hold On (I'm Coming)" told the press that "he's just overworked and has been performing in D.C. and in Tunica a couple of nights." Hayes brand of music has inspired the likes of R&B singers such as Alicia Keys, whom also helped shape her last two projects. He is best known for composing the #1 hit "Theme From Shaft", his epic LPs "Hot Buttered Soul" (1969) and "Black Moses" (1971) and lending his voice to "Chef" on the animated cartoon series "South Park". Other hits including "By The Time I Get To Phoenix", "Walk On By", "The Look Of Love", "Do Your Thing" and "Don't Let Go" continue to gain newer audiences with today's generation.

R&B and jazz vocalist Angela Bofill, whom has been extra quiet lately, suffered a stroke on Sunday and was paralyzed on her left side. She was released from the Sutter Hospital in Santa Rosa, California. Public reports have stated that Bofill had no health insurance and will require speech and physical therapy. She has recorded jazz-influenced projects since the 1970s and charmed the public with her "Angel of the Night" album in 1978; which contained the hit "What I Wouldn't Do". In the early 80s, she gained some ground with her crossover pop/R&B style, spearheaded by worthy producers including Narada Michael Walden, Norman Conners and George Duke. "Holding Out For Love", "Too Tough" and "I'm On Your Side" were some of her greatest hits during that time period.

We lift our soul singers up in prayer and pray that they will forever be lead in the arms of our God. We wish expedient recoveries on Angela and Isaac and we will stand in the gap for Wilson's family, friends and fellow colleagues. If it had not been for their efforts and their sacrifices, the gospel music we hear today would have no musical importance. So we thank God for them and we will forever be grateful for their mighty contributions.

Church Idol

The Trinity Broadcasing Network (TBN) invested their time and money in the latest pop craze taking over America. With American Idol riding high in ratings each and every year and its winners producing projects that are taking a bite out of young America's pockets, TBN decided to be "creative" by copying the same idea and concept and placing the blood-stained banner of our God on it. I guess AI winners' Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard and Fantasia and runner-ups George Huff singing gospel music occasionally and talking about Jesus when giving the opportunity sent off a big warning sign.

Exalting Him 2005 National Talent Search, hosted by Contemporary Christian artist Nicole Mullen, is mirrored after American Idol and also bears a strong resemblance to the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship's Talent Contest and Gospel Dream (presented by The Gospel Channel). To prove that this contest is nothing unfamilar to us, they even have a "wildcard" deal to the mix; which is a definite AI move. Let's be reminded that this is not the first of its kind to hit the Christian circles; it's just more publicized since its on TBN. According to the offical website's sources, this event started in 2004 and has gone on ever since. The contest has several divisions which include Best Group and Best Soloist (sorry, no choirs on this one). The majority of the competition are Contemporary Christian (you know what that means) and the announced winner will receive a recording contract with Daywind Records.

Oh yeah, a side note: the finalists from the 2005 season have already recorded a compilation (similiar to AI's agenda) and is available for purchase at www.daywind.com or through Apple's iTunes. Hope you can find some good gospel on there. Good luck searching.

[MORE CHURCH IDOL TO LOOK UP]

TBN (Offical Website)
Buy The Finalist CD
Exalting Him 2005 National Talent Search
Daywind Records

Gospel Mourns

Two painful announcements were made on Friday, January 6. While the media continued his restless coverage of the horrible tragedy in Sago surrounding the deadly mine explosion killing 11 miners, the music world was served a sad report; announcing the passing of R&B legend Lou Rawls. The silken-voiced crooner whom got his start singing gospel at the age of seven and singing alongside Sam Cooke, with the Pilgrim Travelers, while growing up in the inner parts of Chicago. He also sung with the Highway Q.C.s and several other quartets and groups in his early childhood.

Known for his R&B standards during the 60s which include "Stormy Monday", "Natural Man", "Tobacco Road", and "Love Is A Hurtin' Thing", he hit it real big in 1976 when renowned Philly producers Gamble & Huff released "You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine" on their PIR label; which revived his career and prepared him for his next achievement. He would later move on being the national spokesman for the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) for over a decade. He hosted, "Lou Rawls Parade of Stars", the highly-watched fundraiser in which premiered in 1980, for years and contributed his talents and his wonderful networking skills to attract big names to the show's roster. Many of the UNCF schools received occasional visits from Rawls and explains why alot of the schools truly loved him for his kind heart and his lovable spirit. The singer revisited his gospel roots by recording two gospel projects with Malaco Records; "I'm Blessed" (2001) and "Oh, Happy Day" (2002). Lou Rawls, 72, passed away after a bout with lung and brain cancer. We will forever miss Brother Lou and will always remember his smile, his style and for always encouraging us with that little phrase of joy: "yeaahhh, buddy".



News also went out involving what many label the birthplace of U.S. gospel music. Of course, it is evident that Pilgrim Baptist Church in Chicago, IL, the same city that Lou Rawls spent a good deal of his musical training in, housed alot of history. It was the same church that housed the Father of Gospel music, the late Thomas A. Dorsey; whom was not only the active music director but known across the world for founding gospel music. When churches during this time rejected Dorsey's style of musicianship, along with his very own "bluesy" compositions later called "gospel", it was Pilgrim Baptist Church that welcomed him in with loving arms. The church was built in 1890 by the famous architectural firm of Adler & Sullivan and housed music legends within the church choir including Sallie Martin, Mahalia Jackson and Rev. James Cleveland. It was also established that this landmark also was the first public site that heard the lyrics and music of the historic "Precious Lord, Take My Hand"; in which was penned by Dorsey. The cause of the fire still has not be made public yet, but it's sad to even know that this wonderful landmark is no longer with us.

What's 2 Come...

Gloree-holly-lu...a new year has dawned upon us. And as 2005 concludes, we take a sneak-peek into what's 2 come for us in the new year. Things are looking hopeful for us all with projects from Greg Roberts & Soulful Celebration, James Hall & Worship and Praise and Malcolm Williams & Great Faith, making the grade for "Most Anticipated Album of 2006" in the Nuthinbutgospel/PRAYZEHYMN "The Good, The Bad, The Ugly" expose'. But check out from the man himself (that would be me) in our second online blogcast on upcoming releases, events and projects that are bound to come our way. Plus a lil' bit more. All under fifteen minutes.

PRAYZEHYMN Blogcast - Part I (Dec. 31)

Religiously And Politically Incorrect

The liberal crew at Rod 2.0, one of the most successful blogs online catering to various cultures and sub-cultures that deal with issues including fashion, politics, media and even homosexuality, may need to watch out. There's another Rod out there that's just as convincing and just as serious. Rod Parsley, the senior pastor of the World Harvest Church, a 5,200 seater housed in Columbus, OH whom is a favorite on the Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN), is taking his confident and intense message of revival to the masses along with his politically charged faith in the Republican party. While many critics have praised him for his boldness, he has also become one of the unpopular mega-church pastors in 2005 because of his shift towards "republicanized" ideas and concepts, which includes the war in Iraq in which he thoroughly supports. His sermons have also featured charges against abortion, gay marriage and even greater threats towards stem cell research and other Christian churches and institutions. A typical Sunday at World Harvest Church, to most observers, feature a charging display of praise and worship, excited congregants leaping in the spirit and radical moves of emotionalism and acts of God through healing and deliverance. Call it a Benny Hinn campmeeting on speed. But you must top it off with Parsley's radical preaching, or his special guests like John Ashcroft (R) whom share his views from a Republican perspective, in order to get the full effect of a World Harvest worship service. As of lately, trends have shifted from the regular to more, uncomfortability and private matters. What was once taboos in church are now being analyzed by Parsley: but the emphasis is on politics. He addresses those taboos with a political point-of-view. And he's not ashamed to say that.

In his latest book, Silent No More, Parsley declares that gays live unhappy and unhealthy lives, and he chides society for its acceptance of gay lifestyles. Gays are God's children, he says, but they have chosen a lifestyle that is harmful to themselves and society. "No one wants to talk about that because we hide behind this thin veil of political correctness," Parsley said during an interview. "I love homosexuals and lesbians, and I love them enough to tell them the truth." In his book, he also condemns Islam as being responsible for "more pain, more bloodshed and more devastation than nearly any other force on Earth." Yet Parsley said that he loves Muslims, too, and that it is his duty to try to convert them to Christianity.

He added that many Muslims want to destroy the United States, an objective he said is driven by some leaders within their faith. He also mentions, "There are clerics who will espouse love and teach their people that that's what the Quran teaches, but unless Islam is confronted from without and reformed from within, we are going to continue to have the kinds of difficulties we're seeing played out around the world today."

Kirk Franklin may have shouted out "GP, are you with me?". But when it comes to Rod Parsley, it's "GOP, are you with me?" Gabrielle Williamson, spokeswoman of the Ohio Democratic Party, believes differently stating "he needs to remember that God is not a Republican or a Democrat."

Parsley, whom is also a favorite in African-American circles for his preaching style and charisma, has also special interests in minority groups using his latest creation; the Center of Moral Clarity. Through his Center for Moral Clarity, one of the church's ministries, Parsley has embarked on a three-year campaign that he calls Reformation Ohio. Its goals are to register 400,000 new voters, organize black Ohioans who share conservative views on issues such as gays and abortion, and conduct getout-the vote rallies, all while leading 100,000 Ohioans to Jesus.

Surely the path Rod Parsley is engaging on is no different from Pat Robertson or Rev. Falwell. But with Parsley being the most popular in the evangelical community today and being as prolific as our modern political figures, it's pretty scary to see our pastors engaging in political issues but also knowing what happens behind the scenes regarding these issues. Imagine financial contributions being secretly poured into the Republican Party or future private endorsements from church contributions into political parties. Of course, the emphasis in the puplit should be on Christ and His Kingdom, but to hear sermons shifting towards opinionated beliefs that are still strongly split within the Christian community rather than the Great Commission, we should wonder are we really doing the Lord's Work or setting ourselves on a path that we personally desire and we hunger for.

A very powerful article written in the Columbus Dispatch has been posted online and reveals very important points and issues that may create a new vision upon Parsley's strongest supporters. It also goes in-depth on the issue of Parsley's assets and financial data being held confidential. While Parsley's telecast sites the opportunities of raising funds to help heal wounds in Sudan and with orphans, there is no public data revealing just how much of the proceeds from his supporters goes to these efforts. Instead we have seen high-profiled advertisements and campaigns regarding the Center of Moral Clarity and his latest book, Silent No More. You may want to catch up on this interesting article and learn something fresh on Parsley's political fight.

[MORE ON THE ROD AND THE RED SEA]

Higher Aspirations (Columbus Dispatch)

Center of Moral Clarity (Official Website)

The Raging Prophet (Personal Freedom Outreeach)

Problems In The Choir Stand

The Boys Choir of Harlem has performed for years across the globe using their extensive repertoire full of Negro spirituals, hymns, gospel music, jazz, classical interpretations and hundreds of scores from African-American composers and arrangers ranging from Moses Hogan and William Dawson. Unfortunately, the famed choir has run into a sour note or an abandoned piano out of tune. The choir is facing eviction from the New York Public School system where it has for years rehearsed for free and often provide instruction to over 500 talented boys ranging from grades 4-12. The dilemma surfaces after a major slump of expenses have been covered; tabulating a serious amount reaching debts up to $5 million. In January 2005, the Boys Choir sought $705,000 from the Department of Education to cover some of their financial problems. The department has never granted any monies to the Boys Choir of Harlem since it is a non-profit institution and basically leans off of donations and monies collected from extensive touring for its day-to-day operations. Still, the department refused to grant their request.

But the choir also faces some more grey areas of controversy. According to Michael Best, an attorney from the Department of Education, the choir failed in finding a new executive director to replace the founder Walter Turnbull. who was demoted that year to artistic director after an investigation concluded he did not act on reports that an employee hired by Turnbull sexually abused a student. Because of this dark cloud of confusion, it is possible that the department refused to grant their proposal for funds to help out with their outrageous debt. Alot has transpired since that accident, which includes many layoffs of staff employees due to the lack of funds to pay for their salaries

Donations from hip-hop moguls Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson and The Game have been collected to help their financial problems but apparently it wasn't enough. The choir's last day at their current location of services will be January 31, 2006. Mr. Turnbull cites that he is hopeful that they will probably find a new place to rehearse in the near future.

Message boards across the Internet are crying on the hands and mercy of hip-hop and R&B superstars to aid them, even Oprah. But can we also call on gospel artists such as Pastor Donnie McClurkin, Kirk Franklin, John P. Kee, Hezekiah Walker or Mary Mary to help out as well. The Boys Choir of Harlem has aided hundreds of young men to college and empowered their destinies. Yes, the group faces much controversy (and who can ignore the sexual misconduct issue), but if this institution desires to come out of the red, they must have a green light to help them; which proves that it certainly takes a village to raise a child.

[MORE ON THE BOYS' INVESTIGATION]

VIBE.com Magazine: Article

Associated Press/Yahoo! News: More Details

PRAYZE at Christmas

An exclusive special just in time for Christmas...
Our very first PRAYZEHYMN blogcast - featuring Christmas tunes, holy chit-chat, a word of encouragement and many well wishes for the holiday. Plus, we go in depth with the mystery behind the Christmas church closings and retail's final outcome for the holiday shopping season.

Share you comments here on the blog or send them to PRAYZEHYMN@yahoo.com

PRAYZEHYMN Blogcast - Part I (Dec. 24)

PRAYZEHYMN Blogcast - Part II (Dec. 24)

Spread The Love This Holiday

OK. Maybe it's too late to send a Christmas card or a gift by way of the U.S. Postal Service. But you can easily spread the love this holiday to PRAYZEHYMN, the official gospel communicator, online. Today is Christmas Eve, so feel free to put on your Santa hat and send a love gift using Paypal (the online version of a gift card). That will just make my day...and my holiday. So go on and be a bleshing (smiling).

I want to wish my friends, my family and all of the members of the PRAYZEHYMN Fellowship a blessed and glorious Christmas. And if you are just wondering here to the Blog or the site and are new to the PRAYZEHYMN Life...I want you to know that I love you, Christ loves you and that you may also enjoy your Christmas holiday. I pray you will witness the love of God like never before and experience the mighty wealth of His presence in your life this holiday. We celebrate Jesus on this, his observed birthday, and let there peace on earth; good will to all mankind.

Just a few friendly reminders this holiday:

1) Do not lie and say you loved the fruit cake when you fed it to the dog.

2) If you get a lump of coal in your stocking this year, don't get mad. Use it wisely to burn a good fire. The electric bill from overusage of the gas heater is too high this time of year.

3) Just because you see only nine cars in your church parking lot, that doesn't mean you should turn around and go home.

4) Open them gifts after church...you will feel better about the ones you don't want.

5) If you get two Ipods this holiday, instead of one, send the other to me. You will feel better afterwards.

6) If you are giving a pet this holiday, don't wrap them up. Normally this will harm the animal.

7) If you are giving a gift card, make sure the card also covers enough for tax. In other words, make sure the gift card has more than ten cents on it.

8) Try not to cuzz at your parents if they got you a box with the letter "X" on it; claiming it to be an Xbox.

9) Please try not to give coupons of 20% off to your church's bookstore. Everybody don't want the employee discount off of Pastor Jumbugg's latest series: "How To Get Out of Debt Part III".

10) Avoid buying bubble gum for church members. We don't need any more of that pink and white stuff underneath the pews. And also avoid buying the New Ebonic Ghettofied Revised Version of the Holy Bible. I read it...it's more confusing than Rod Parsley's Newly Converted Republican Edition.

Essentially 2005: The Close-Up

After going through a good bulk of my selected favorites based on song selection, production, content and replay value, I finally posted the Top 12 Gospel Albums of 2005. Compiling such a list is always a difficult job since you have to put aside your personal dislikes or tarnished viewpoints of some albums just to tell the truth like it really is. After making the post, I felt it was necessary to explain why and how the choice were made and to better interpret the order of those choices. And it's quite understandable if people don't agree with the final outcome. Usually I attempt to defend myself in these matters, yet I could not place a full analysis of each CD on the article - knowing that would take forever to read and would ruin the occasion. But there are a few observations that were not stated that should be addressed concerning the final post. And here they are.

Oh yeah, you might wanna see the Top 12 before reading the commentary below.

If you loved Ron Winans Family & Friends V so much, why didn't it receive a higher placement?
Good question. Personally, I enjoyed this project far more than Mary Mary, John P. Kee & New Life's and even Israel's project. But the final results were not based on what were my favorites. It was baded on overall satisfaction and overall value. Plus, there were some important factors that were weighed in when looking at "Family & Friends V: A Celebration" that hurt the image of the project. Great songs, great guest stars and great performances need great production. And I can honestly say that the production on this project was too raw for the conventional gospel listener. Many may get the impression that this was a church service recording. It just didn't get the rightful treatment it deserved. This hurt the overall image of this album; placing it lower than the other albums. This is another reason why not too many picked up on the album even though it was independently released (which was probably the main reason). Of course, I'm not the only that enjoyed the album. ChristianityOnline.com gave the album a wonderful review and rated it one of the better Gospel projects of the year as well.

Kirk Franklin at #10?
Yes, Kirk Franklin at #10. Some people may see this project as being a major improvement from "The Rebirth" and from his previous studio collections ("Nu Nation Project"), but whenever an artist has to depend on samples to make or break an album, it looses its potential of winning the ear of those looking for something original. There were too many samples used here for this to be classified an original collection. It was a good project, but far from being one of Kirk's better projects.

Youthful Praise #1? How is that?
Pick up the album and hear it. All the way through. That's all I need to say. The album was a nice ride from beginning to end and even though the mass media hasn't fully embraced this project since it didn't get mighty exposure in the press and an expensive budget for promotion, the content on this project will certainly prove just how infectious this album really was. I didn't just give this album the #1 slot because it was such a great improvement from their previous offering ("Thank You For The Change"). This indeed was a terrific project with barely a trace of error or mistake. And you barely can locate an album that was released this year that possessed the balance this project did. If you don't know the songs on this one now, you will later on.

If John P. Kee disappointed with the lack of guest stars and the critical misfortunes of "The Reunion", why are they listed #4?
I had to think this one long and hard. Double CDs are normally a scary sign that an album will lack substance and creativity, and of course I didn't expect anything exceptionally fresh on this collection. My expectations were certainly true. And what made matters worse was knowing this could have been the best album of the year, if more time was labored, if a greater number of former New Life members were involved and if the better songs weren't so divided up like were. Usually one disc in a double-unit collection is better than the other - that's usually the first one. But this album was a little different. It really depends on the listener and upon their personal choice on what songs they mostly enjoyed from John P. Kee's songbook. I think good tracks rested on both discs, while some renditions were lazy compared to the original. Little things like that hurts these kind of projects. Plus knowing Bruce Parham, Erick Matthews, Drea Randle, Shawn McLemore and New Life's former musicians weren't a part of this really bothered me. But I have learned to accept the good of a thing and just accept it. The idea of a reunion project for John P. Kee and the New Life Community Choir was certainly needed and just knowing that we miss the high visibility of Kee and those memories we experienced of his ministry only helped this project. And don't get it twisted: there's alot to cherish on here. "Wave It Away" makes the former version sound totally outdated and "I Must Tell Jesus", "The Lord Is Able" and "Rhema Word" are all keepers. Even though I still wonder if this album should have gotten a lower position on the final list after careful observation, my actions will remain.

What happened to Byron Cage's "An Invitation To Worship"? It didn't chart at all in the Top 12. Why is that?
Please read the PRAYZEHYMN review. That will probably explain why.

Those are just some of the observations that I felt like addressing. The rest should be self-explanatory. I close on this note...I've seen better years of album releases in the gospel music industry. 2005 was really a little boring to me. Nothing major and nothing seriously breathtaking caught my attention this year. I am hoping 2006 takes a turn for the better.

Get Off Board

"Tis' the old ship of zion...get OFF board..."

Just when you thought the weather this time of year was cold enough. Sources are reporting that Victoria Osteen, wife of Joel Osteen of Lakewood Church, can be colder.

Just leaking into the media, an event took place on Monday on an airplane, owned by Continential Airplanes, scheduled to take off and heading to Vail, Colorado. Families waited for two hours while a big fuzz in the first-class section of the plane between Victoria Osteen and a flight attendant. It all started with a drink spill, which later fueled "a series of issues with the crew", passenger Herbert Towning said. Witnesses also claim that Pastor Joel Osteen is a man of his word and was very humble throughout the altercation; sitting there humble and very professional.

"She just had attitude," an unnamed passenger said of Victoria Osteen. "They took her off, and she never came back. Her husband went out, then he came back and got their stuff. An hour-and-a-half later, we were leaving."

"She was just abusive," said Sheila Steele, who said she was sitting behind Victoria Osteen. "She was just like one of those divas."

Most of the passengers were upset over the fact that there was a lengthy delay of travel because of this scenario and were ready to hussle towards their rightful destinations for the holidays. She was ordered to be removed from the plane, along with her family because of disorderly conduct and failure to comply with airline instructions. According to Luz Garcia, an agent at the FBI's office in Houston, charges will not be filed.

Lakewood Church spokesman Don Iloff mentioned to the press that the Osteen family were on their way to Vail for a ski trip.

Now, how cold is that. Burrrrrr!

[MORE ON THE OSTEEN DROP-OFF]
Houston Chronicle: Few details released

Vail Reports: The big delay

Coming Soon...

Sorry about the absence folk...
We've been off the air for a few days (make that weeks)
But we will be back later with brand new shows, just for you.
Don't change that station...we will be back after these messages.

COMING UP NEXT ON THE PRAYZE REPORT:

Essentially 2005: The Close-Up
The most-talked about retrospective on the Top 12 gospel albums of 2005. We give you the full monty.

What's 2 Come...
Wanna know what 2006 has in store...only here can you find the nitty gritty on what the gospel music industry has in store.

NUTHIN BUT PRAYZE?
Oh ok...kinda corny. Well, Nuthinbutgospel.com has become an oasis for online gospel music lovers. We dig into the brains behind the popular website in an exclusive interview right 'chere on the PRAYZE report.

Oh Happy Gay
Seems like the issue of homosexuality has become so dominant in the church during the last couple of months, even though many are calling it the big taboo of all the deep controversies. While many fail to recognize the issue in gospel music, many will be shocked at how its dealt with in the industry and the many different viewpoints people have on it. Other have escaped from discussing this issue, while PRAYZEHYMN goes deep on this one. Only right here.

Merry -------- Mas

OK. Have you noticed out of all the years we have witnessed the holiday season, 2005 has a big problem with the word or term "Christmas" with big businesses, politics and other social organizations.

I am having a hard time trying to realize why is that.

I guess those songs in the music stores should be changing sometime soon as well to fit the growing popular trends of today.

Like:

Rockin' around the holiday tree
at the holiday party hop
Mistletoe hung where you can see
every couple tries to stop
Rocking around the holiday tree,
let the season spirit ring
Later we'll have some pumpkin pie
and we'll do some caroling...

Like:


Merry Xmas baby, sure did treat me nice
Merry Xmas baby, sure did treat me nice, oh yeah
Bought me a diamond ring for Xmas
Feel's like I'm in paradise

Like:

We wish you a merry holiday
We wish you a merry holiday
We wish you a merry holiday
And a happy New Year

Like:

And so, I'm offering this
Simple phrase to kids from
One to ninety-two
Altho' it's been said many times
Many ways; "Merry Xmas to you"

Good grief, if you can't say Christmas...I guess secular society needs to take the word "Christmas" out of everything they created. When is too far just too far.

I guess they are gonig to take "Merry" away to since it sounds too much like the mother of Jesus. Well, let me go on the record for saying "Merry Christmas" and yes, I have a Christmas tree, not a holiday tree.

Props goes out to the Honorable Bernard Kincaid, mayor of the city of Birmingham, for going on the record for naming our city tree "a Christmas tree", not a holiday tree. Kudos.

You Got Mail

Believe it or not, PRAYZEHYMN gets alot of mail. OK, most if it is junk mail. But some people choose to write us; sharing their views, opinions, support and other things. But one of the most popular subjects that tend to come across my way regarding how "we do things" tends to focus on the PRAYZEHYMN album reviews. Check it out.

"Love the site but I do have a ?tion. . . do you really think it is fair to judge and grade "Gospel" artists when it's not about their "music" per-say but the "message" that God has given them behind it? This is all "ministry" work and support, so do you think it's really beneficial to put up a website about them and their music? and if it is, who is it beneficial to? if i were a sinner and came to that site, would be turned off by some of the content. . ." - "PRAYZEHYMN Fan"

I am not alone. There are several Christian websites, even though many may not be familiar with them in certain circles, that have a rating system. Why not rate a particular project? Secular society is free to do so, Siskel & Rober review movies and they recommend their best, Amazon.com always feature their essential album favorites each and every year. But because we are profess to be Christians, we shouldn't review albums and rate them? Something is wrong with that picture. If a school teacher can grant an A or a F on a student's report card, why can't we do the same for our music. Let's be serious for a second: everything that comes out on radio and on a compact disc and contains a gospel lyric ain't always good. Even though some of my fellow contemporaries tend to kiss up to artists, especially their favorites, someone in these last days need to be willing to speak the truth, even if it looks or feels uncomfortable. I have prayed about how I handle my reviews lately, and I find no fault in it. God has no given me a new directive in handling what I say, and I refuse to compromise my standards and what I believe for anyone.

When one read my review, they should notice one or two things. I never review the artist, just the project in question. Also they should observe I don't play favorites, if it's a good album , it's a good album, if it's not, I point out what needs correction or other technical problems. Alot of people have been blessed by my reviews and I am highly thankful that God has given me the inspiration to do this. In closing, let me prove to the skeptics of my fellow Christian brothers and sisters that grading a project bad or good ain't evil. Check out ChristianityToday.com and NBG. And please, don't direct them any hate-mail. Either support them or briddle the tounge. As the Apostle Paul warns us in I Corinthians 12: "But now are they many members, yet but one body. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary. And those memberws of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness."

The Many Faces Of Kirk Franklin

Early Wednesday morning on the Tom Joyner Show, J. Anthony Brown poked a joke at one of our assignments on our "things to do" list. He said, "Wives, if you are a Christian and your husband watches porn, don't watch Oprah today." It was quite a funny statement coming from one angle, but another angle pointed out a serious problem that most Americans have labeled the "big taboo". Pornography is a dark global obsession that pulls in over $57 billion dollars world-wide and $12 billion coming from the U.S. alone. It is the largest commercial industry in the world and makes more green than all combined revenues of the NBA, NFL and MLB. That's pretty big money.

Well, J. Anthony Brown didn't point out any concern about the porn industry affecting the world. We know its affects in our society, but what concerned him as it did most of us this week is knowing gospel superstar Kirk Franklin was being featured on the Oprah Winfrey show as he discussed his addiction and obsession for pornography, which is old news to many since he publicly announced this bad habit a couple of months ago on Christian platforms such as TBN and CBN. But Kirk is very strategic in noting that he's been "delivered" and freed from porn and wanted to express the hypocrisy that surrounded what he did in private and what he did as a gospel singer and minister in the public.

Since the age of eight, Kirk was hooked to porn and even takes our ears where they have never gone; stating that he became sexual at the age of "nine and ten". He had an obsession with porn as well as sex at an early, young age. "Growing up, everybody's got a play uncle, a big brother... a friend that's got that big brother that has the stash [of pornographic magazines or videotapes] under the bed," he says. "From my first look, I was hooked."

Oprah then asks the audience if they had any uncles like that. Mixed emotions roared; the bulk of them couldn't relate. Shocked was the usual response.

Of course, every one knows the tough times of Kirk's early childhood. Having no father, no mother, being adopted at the age of four by his grandmother Gertrude. Many insecurities and poor self-esteem affected his choices in life, especially while growing up. But at the age of nine - it is too hard to imagine for a child to be sexually active at such a tender age, but the subject was pornography and Kirk was wise to stay on that subject. For a minute.

When he was 15, Kirks told Oprah that he began getting serious about his faith and went to his pastor to talk about his struggle with pornography. "He sat back in his chair and he took a puff out of his cigar," Kirk remembers. "He said, 'Oh, you're young, you'll grow out of it.' He had no idea that he spoke death into my life. That shut me down because [I thought], 'Well, someday I'll grow out.' [Instead], I grew in and I grew in deep."

Oprah was shocked to hear of these things, as did we. Especially when he boldly mentioned he was the "h" word. "A ho' [hoar]?" Oprah asks. "Yeah, a ho'. Lots of women..." Kirk painted this picture of a confused young boy, growing up with no guidance and protection and living a loose life on the streets.

This was the beginning of the strong, hard emotions that started to brew up inside of us regarding the church and its role in our everyday lives. She then asked Kirk when and how was the height of your obsession. "Everyday...everyday," he responds. Moments later, Kirk revealed bits and pieces of his "rock bottom" experience - his moment of shame. When Kirk goes on and on about being hypocritical and "feeling dirty" (a term he used a whole lot during the interview, a whole lot), Oprah finally asks where was "rock bottom" in his life. He thought marriage would ultimately "fix" his problem and curve his addiction. After getting married, he realized how severe his problem when he craved porn like never before; turning to it even in the middle of the night while Tammy was asleep. Kirk once felt so much self-disgust over his porn collection that he drove far away from his house to throw it away. "I tried to go to sleep that night and it was literally like a drug calling me," he remembers. "About 3 or 4 in the morning, in my flip-flops and boxers, I got in my car and drove back to that dumpster and dug [looking for my porn]."

During these moments of confession, Oprah knows how easy it is to find porn on the Internet. He claimed he was "not an Internet guy"; something that comes off as being hard to believe. Especially when he's very much an Internet guy - posting on his weblog [blog] on his website almost everyday, posting daily entries for weeks on the Gospelflava.com Blog while promoting his new project "Hero" and hitting places like Atlanta for MegaFest. Oprah reveals internet porn is the "crack cocaine" of pornography; it's easy, conveient and highly addictive. Stats prove that: 372 million pages on the Web are porn-related, 2.5 billion emails are pornographic and over $2.5 billion dollars go to the Internet porn industry every year. If Kirk was really addicted to porn and was not an "Internet guy" as he claims, where did he get it from? Did he go to the adult bookstores himself? He didn't order this stuff online since he's not an Internet guy, so did he have someone get this stuff for him? So many questions. He also mentions he hated going to L.A. and N.Y., saying they were easy places to get his "drug".

When Tammy appears on the set beside her husband, she was questioned by O on when she found out. "He sat me down and he said, 'Babe, I want to talk to you about a problem that I've been struggling with.' He had such sincerity in his eyes. You could tell that this pained him. For me, my immediate reaction was to just support him in it." They both agree this happened in L.A. She also believes that the obsession of porn ultimately affected their sex life.

Oprah always asks the big questions and never sugar-coats a drop of reality. She doesn't understand how exactly a wife can be so supportive of their husband in such a crisis. "You ain't Jesus," Oprah exclaims as Kirk and Tammy paints this beautiful picture that they got over the crisis easily. This is the nice, beautiful picture we all got: And in one prayer, he was saved and delivered and it will all work out in the end, "oh happy day..when Jesus washed...". Oprah is right, it's not that easy; which leads her to say these words, "I think the church is being hypocritical that its scornful of the behavior of sin, and they are doing it themselves." Amazingly, Oprah doesn't condemn Kirk during this "confession" on her show, since she mentions the awesome achievements he has done for the gospel music industry and for people across the globe through his music. She states that he literally transformed the face of gospel - this is a true remark. But understanding how they overcame this habit together was a hard one to digest for the Queen of Talk. "She's a strong woman, she's a soldier, she kept telling me "Boo, I got your back. Boo, I got you." When I fell, she stayed." Kirk's powerful words made it seem as if his wife was such a strong "God warrior". But the reality of all of this is - most married couples don't have that kind of a final outcome. Honestly, Tammy would have lost a lot, and money (let's be real), if she filed for a divorce. Instead, she decided to live through this with Kirk. Her choice.

But in my own form of commentary and in my experiences with women, I found out that they are not going to easily accept this kind behavior. They don't like to be cheated on, even though that's not to say that women don't cheat. But no one wants to be cheated on. Kirk admits he felt as if he committ adultery because he brought those images of other women and people into his mind and in his marriage. If this was the case for the average couple, most women wouldn't be as understanding as Tammy was. But just like Kobe Bryant and his wife, just like R. Kelly and his wife - both superstars engaged in lust and acts of deception - Kirk's wife remains faithful to her husband and refuses to let him go. Beautiful to hear that, but I'm wondering if Kirk had no money and no title, would the situation change? Would she be just as committed to staying with him as she is now?

Rob Weiss, a sexual addiction expert, approaches the issue in a very serious and realistic way. "I think of sex addicts as being drug addicts; only their drug is their neurochemistry, Rob says. "It's what turns them on. "I talk to guys who say that hours and hours and hours go by, and they're not even aware of the time change because they're so filled with adrenalin and dopamine and serotonin." When you're an addict, Rob says, you begin to notice the consequences of your actions. Kirk felt like a hypocrite on stage...those problems were born out of their excessive porn use, but he chose to ignore them, Rob says.

Controversy is already brewing over the Wednesday airing of the Oprah Show and even more beef is being raised on how Oprah views prayer. Her statement to Dr. Weiss was, "you cannot cure yourself" and "you cannot pray yourself out of this".

Religious fanatics see those comments as being a "no-win" for deliverance and the victory in Christ Jesus in the world of Oprah. But let's be realistic, a-prayer-a-day is not the solution to overcoming addiction to porn. If you think it's that easy, then you need to become an addict for real. Addicts whom overcome their struggle will tell you it's never easy, and we are pretty sure porn is no expcetion. Ask the 40% of clergy that have watched according to a poll stated on the Oprah Wednesday show. It was during the height of Kirk's career that he was obsessed with porn, even while he was married. While we jamming to "Whatcha' Lookin' 4" and "Stomp" and "Lean On Me" and "Revolution" and "Why We Sing" and "Silver And Gold", Kirk was bound to his addiction. I'm pretty sure it took more than a quick prayer to secure his freedom from porn. So I stand up with O to say that she is right. It takes much more than that.

In closing, I celebrate him in his victory and his boldness to address such a controversial issue. But I want to remind Kirk to think before speaking; you are "an Internet guy". You got an email address. We don't want you to feel like a hypocrite any longer.

[MORE FACES TO SEE]

The Oprah Coverage (Kirk on Porn)

"God Warrior" (Video - WMV - HI)
"God Warrior" (Video - WMV -LO)
(courtesy of FOX's Trading Spouses)
Profile on the Perrin Family

How The Stellars Got Its Groove Back

Award shows barely appeal to me these days. Normally the winners are chosen based on what a certain clique' or group of like-minded individuals ( labeled as being committee usually) praises. For many years, the Stellar Awards have followed in that long tradition - choosing their favorites as their winners. But this year's nominations for the big day in Jaunary set to take place at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville have some major surprises - even some historical ones.

Donald Lawrence, the guy that loves to end good careers (Tri-City Singers) and make new ones (The Murrills, Dewayne Woods), has a count of ten nominations in all; probably the most multiple nods an artist has ever received in the twenty-one year old instiution. J. Moss trails with nine nods while RiZen gets four. Will they go home with all or most of the trophies and titles? We're not sure. But let us say the other nominees are not worried.

Mary Mary, whom recently took home the Contemporary Inspirational award at the American Music Awards and facing big-time candidates such as Jars of Clay and Casting Crowns, has been chosen as a nominee in the Best Artist of the Year and may be the most likely candidate for this category. Dr. Charles G. Hayes and the Warriors are the big surprise also this year, since they are mostly known for their legendary sound and hits from yesteryear. With a big return to the #1 slot on Billboard's Gospel music chart this year with "The Remix" (an indepedent project on local ICEE record label), they receive their share of nominations in Best Choir and Music Video and even Female Vocalist and Traditional Female Vocalist for Dianne Williams' performance on the album's lead single, "Jesus Can Work It Out (Remix)".

Very surprised to see Mark S. Hubbard & the United Voices and James Grear & Nu Friends getting a nod for Traditional Choir; especially since these are two independent projects but are very good. Newcomer Micah Stampley, one of the most unique and refreshing vocalists this year, also gets a bundle of "amens" with New Artist, Male Vocalist while the album's producer, Cedric Thompson, is nominated for Producer of the Year.

The all-star celebration takes place on January 21, 2006 and will be hosted by Vickie Winans, Donnie McClurkin and Israel Houghton.

[MORE STELLAR DOMINATION]
Stellar Awards Website (gospelflava.com)

RE: Whatcha' Lookin' At?

Just a brief announcement.

The Oprah special featuring Kirk Franklin regarding his past addiction to pornography will air on Wednesday (Nov. 30), according to valuable media sources. Remember to set your TiVos and VCRs and check your local listings.

Whatcha Lookin' At?

Over the last couple of weeks, rumors and the latest gossip in the gospel music industry lit up like a hot barbecue in middle of July over Kirk Franklin's past lifestyle connected to pornography. Amazingly, Franklin has come "out of the closet" about his addiction and has silenced many of those accusations by boldly coming forth with his deliverance.

This comes at a very good time, especially since a few months ago the gospel superstar dropped his most recent collection entitled "Hero" on the GospoCentric/Zomba music label. Now Franklin is on a crusade and a controversial one at that to take his message to the masses by appearing on Oprah. The Queen of Talk will be featuring Franklin on today's episode (Nov. 25) so set your TiVo please. This is a definite must-see, especially since we all know by now Oprah's stylish and strategic manuevers of asking the cutting-edge questions. She don't hold anything back...but we do expect a lil' grace from O since she is interviewing a gospel celebrity.

And no, there's no details on what type of porn Kirk "preferred". He never specified, so don't ask me. Expect a follow-up on the show right here.