How To Save Gospel Music: Step #1

Originally posted on the PRAYZE PLACE Blog, "How To Save Gospel Music: Part One" (MySpace.com)

I thought about it for a second and I really wanted to post an article on this subject on PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com. Who knows...I just might. But in the meantime, I'm going to throw out a few wise words, choices and options that may bring clarity to this glorious heritage of music we call 'gospel' music.

First you got to know what you are saving before you go after trying to rescue it. And to make it a little more practical in words, you have to know where you've been in order to know where you are going. In the last two decades, Gospel music has making shifts and turns in directions that remain both unprecedented and threatening to its original form of glory. Today's generation has no real respect to the historical relevance of its pre-war pioneers and Golden Age developers. And most of the facts and information has been misconstrued and unappreciated for years that it is hard for serious musicologists (or in better words - music historians) to receive any form of credit. Researchers I have valued including Anthony Heilbut, Horace Clarence Boyer, W.K. McNeil, Bob Darden, Bernice Johnson Reagon have done an incredible job in putting our music's history to words for future generations to adore. Have we as gospel music lovers seriously read any of their works? I'm sure "we" haven't. Even though I know I have, I include myself in the list of today's lazy gospel generation...just because I hung with them at the lunchroom table in grade school and I don't want to sit in the seat of judgement...not at this time. Maybe later.

I felt like writing this piece in parts - because the matter is weighty and very tough to tackle at one particular time. Gospel music is at a crucial point in time...whether critics want to agree or not...whether the "churched" want to believe it or not. Years ago, gospel music was defined by style. A style that used to be clearly identifiable and easy to define. Gospel music had a sound. A sound that incorporated its musical origins of blues and jazz into a swirling frenzy of spiritual soul music. And with that sound came the expressions of the African heritage and the responses from the centuries of agony, survival and conquest. The slave songs, the work songs, the holler, the shout, the moaning and spirituals became our forefather's communication to the Creator and with it came knowledge and power. With the blues and jazz, gospel music began to develop and later emerged into its own style; helping to create and stimulate music icons in multiple genres such as Sam Cooke, Ray Charles, Little Richard, Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin and Lou Rawls. Those artists never ceased to use the tools they inhabited from their gospel schooling.

Who would have known artists such as Prof. Alex Bradford would be the primary influence for Little Richard? Who would have thought that Dorothy Love Coates, a female who rocked the foundations of civil rights with her social-gospel messages, would be an inspiration for a number of quartet singers today...especially for men? Who would have thought that a young Aretha Franklin sat quietly and admired the beauty and talent of Clara Ward's performances at her father's New Bethel Baptist Church? Who would have thought that Sam Cooke, a young man that made gospel appealing with the Soul Stirrers, would later create his own genre of music...a genre that artists like John Legend, Alicia Keys, Raheem DeVaughn, Robin Thicke and Anita Baker make a living off of. We as gospel torchbearers have always been the inspiration for our world's priceless musical landmarks. Until now...

I definitely feel we have upset ted the waters of our heritage for numerous reasons. We aren't as responsible, we aren't as intelligent and we aren't as vigilant as the former generations. And the funny thing is...it looks we are because we have more available to us. We have books, computer technology to make our own music without paying one musician, we have mega-churches, we have songbooks, hymnals, MP3s and reasonable resources. AND...we still have a generation of newcomers that refuse to be mentored...that think they are all of that and a bag of Golden Flake potato chips...and cannot take an ounce of valuable criticism. We have cities loaded with lazy and selfish gospel talent and cannot put together one good project of songs. We have selfish producers and songwriters that tend to hold the best songs for their own projects - with hopes they will take home a "notable" award that no one will ever see or remember. We have thousands of MySpace pages with thousands of friends, but not one of those friends are willing to put $15 dollars down to buy their homemade project. And we even have gospel artists nowadays that aspire to be semi-nude models on the side and wonder why the religious-conservative right have a problem with them at the Dove Awards. And we have a generation of newcomers that still don't know what a hymn is...goodness...one evening Yolanda Adams talked to a few of today's gospel celebs on TBN and asked them what their favorite hymn was. Responses such as "I Don't Feel Noways Tired", "Just Another Day" and "I Won't Complain" sparked from their happy souls. As much as I love those gospel gems, those aren't hymns, folkz.

Hey, if you're guilty of any or all of the above...don't write me any hate mail. Just learn to do better.

The first thing we as a people, as a nation of gospel torchbearers, should account for...to help save our genre...we must learn how to be accountable. Of ourselves...of our talent. I can go on and on about that point...but you know the Word. Learn how to properly invest in your talent and to nurture your talents and gifts. Use wisdom upon it and watch your gifts make room for you. Not just at the next midnight musical...but in the industry. The problem with our artists today, both signed and unsigned, is that they believe living a lie and keeping it undercover will make their talent blossom. Hate to say this, but if you are too lazy to write a good song or to search for a good songwriter or producer and too cheap to invest in good ground, then you are not prepared for greater. Learn to be accountable for your strengths and your weakness, for your victories and your failures. Only you posses the key to your destiny. It's time for you to unlock it.

J. Matthew Cobb
June 2007

Melinda and BeBe and Cece Together

Just when you thought American Idol was finished with all of the big surprises on their 2-hour Season 6 finale' spectacular, out comes one of our most anticipated reunions in all of Gospel music history. BeBe & CeCe Winans reunited after thirteen years of departing to pursue solo careers. Melinda Doolittle, a former background singer for CeCe and one of AI's hopeful finalists, rocked the stage with BeBe & CeCe Winans during a live performance of Percy Bady's "Hold Up The Light" from the platinum-selling "Heaven". What is so amazing is that the original song featured Whitney Houston dueting with the two...but Doolittle decided to jump into the race to prove that she can handle Houston's over-the-top soaring vocal power. Just a week before the finale', Randy Jackson choose as his song choice for Doolittle a Whitney Houston ballad ("I Believe In You And Me") - stating that he felt she needed to "stretch and challenge herself". The song may have been what cost her the big victory to the finale' since the song seemed to be too colossal for her voice. But Doolittle bounced back with phenomenal performance on gospel power anthem, "Hold Up The Light".

On to bigger news, BeBe & CeCe Winans have announced that there appearance on AI was far from being accidental. The two are reuniting and are working on an upcoming project and tour. Street date has not been released, but they are currently in the studio working on the project. BeBe exclaimed, “I’m so grateful for BeBe & CeCe’s past accomplishments. But I’m so excited about coming back together and blazing new trails of hope into the hearts of people all around the world.” CeCe added, “I’m very excited that the time has finally come for BeBe and I to reunite and encourage the world with uplifting, soul-changing music.”

As for the talented Melinda Doolittle, she will join the top finalists on the American Idol Tour this summer. Tickets are on currently on sale now. For more details, visit the American Idol Official website.

The sixth season finale' was watched by over 29.5 million viewers; a sharp drop from last year's 36.4 watchers. It is possible that the billing of Jordin Sparks and Blake Lewis was not what viewers intended. AI judge Simon Cowell mentioned that he would have liked to see two great voices battle it out in the end - preferably Melinda Doolittle and Jordin Sparks.

[MAGNUM A.I AND MORE]
American Idol (Official Website)
Ratings down 19 percent, Jordin wins (Examiner.com)

City Stages Catches Gospel Bug

Since our little and insignificant expose' (or online letter of personal sympathy and expression) on City Stages was posted on the PRAYZE Report awhile back, we felt it would be refreshing to play "catch up" with a follow-up regarding the local music festival's current stand on improving their relations towards gospel music. We have constantly been reminded by public officials since the festival was started that they were committed to being a world-class music festival and yearn to expose as many music styles and genres as possible. Gospel music has been represented, as we cited before, at the Birmingham-based festival in previous years, but we felt that the three-day event has failed to give it the proper accolades and treatment that the mainline stages and genres receive. There has been very little press in the past on the gospel groups they have been featured and usually only one headliner closes the event. Yes, it's sad to say that in the past years, City Stages (another reminder - it's a three-day festival) could only afford one well-known gospel act (and the rest being local church choirs) for its own gospel stage.

Well, it looks like the officials and staff of City Stages have heard our faintest cry and have done some kind of revamping to fix this problem. It's not much...but it's enough considering that now the music festival is trying to bounce back from a serious financial crisis and a few bad attendance turnouts from previous years. City Stages 2007 will be featuring gospel music on the premiere stage of the festival, the well-known Coca-Cola Stage, on Sunday (one day only). While the other stages will be bouncin' and banging their heads to the music of Three Days Grace and Breaking Benjamin, gospel music will be headlining the big stage from beginning to end. Artists planning to hit the stage include WellSprings Gospel recording artist Vickie Yohe, urban hip-hop/southern R&B sensation Canton Jones, the Birmingham Mass Community Choir and Kurt Carr & the Kurt Carr Singers (coming back once again - he appeared on the stage last year - all thanks to Pastor Stephen Green of More Than Conquerors Faith Church). Expect a repeat performance from Carr once again.

Okay. Maybe City Stages hasn't gotten the gospel idea down to a science. There's a whole lotta' things they need to familiarize themselves with in order to provide the justice the gospel genre deserves. Here's a few pointers:

1. Repeat headliners are a "no-no" in the booking world. Never book the same artist two or three years in a row for a less popular genre. The public and fans of that genre will forever remember that...and will feel like "favoritism" is the operative term for that kind of decision. We do want to see someone different from time to time.

2. The Coca-Cola Stage is an outdoor stage...so if you are going to attract church folk to an outdoor event while other are getting loaded with booze and smoking their lungs away, you better have talent and big names to draw them out there. Second-rate artists can be good...but you got to bring the heat when it comes to gospel. Otherwise, the crowd will tell you if it's a success or not.

3. Diversity can make you or break you. In this instance, it may break you. You got on one same day, three different kinds of gospel music represented. Local choir gospel first, then Praise-and-worship slow material next with Yohe, then comes the big hip-hop breakdown from Canton Jones and then contemporary gospel from Kurt Carr last. Expect to see different groups of people come and go with this kind of line-up. They are all good artists...that's not the problem. The problem is that there's a big difference in styles from all of the artists that instead of seeing a build-up of the audience, you're going to see one group leave and another group come. Start with the openers first and build up on bigger, well-known and established artists as the program continues.

4. If it rains or even drizzles a little, expect the saints to become "aint's". LOL

5. Do some homework on the bigger gospel festivals that take place across the country. It won't hurt. Best place to start might be the annual Chicago Gospel Festival.

[CITY STAGED]
City Stages 2007 (Official Website)
Dear City Stages

Down But Not Out

We are sorry to inform you that we are having techinical issues on this side of town. PRAYZEHYMN updates are still on the way, but we are having computer problems at the time. Hopefully we will be back in business on Friday (May 11, 2007) and will post new updates, blog entries and reviews on PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com and the PRAYZE Report. Thank you for your patience and your prayers.

UPCOMING UPDATES SET TO INCLUDE:
Maurette Brown-Clark
Various Artists - The Lord's Prayer
Bishop T.D. Jakes & the Potter's House Mass Choir
J. Moss
Tony Moore & Jehovah's Chosen
Bishop Noel Jones Presents the City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir
and others
Music Center Update
PRAYZEHYMNLife

J. Matthew Cobb
Editor-At-Large
PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com

In Memory of Kayla Parker

"My music is definitely inspirational. I can identify with people who've been through hard times because I've been there myself and have come through it.” - Kayla Parker-Tolbert

Kayla Parker-Tolbert was a rare talent; capturing the sweet contemporary musical elegance of the Detroit waters while showcasing a jazzy interpretation that was uniquely her own. Of course, her influences may have ranged from Stevie Wonder to the Winans Family, but Kayla Parker found her authentic sound and allowed listeners to discover and embrace her.

She began her career with the discovery of Special Gift (a female group formed in the traditions of Witness) and doors began to open for the emerging vocalist and songwriter. Even though she remained a prominent force in the local Detroit community, her biggest break appeared on the Marvin Winans & the Perfected Praise Choir (“Introducing Perfected Praise”) debut album on Selah Records. She penned and sung the phenomenal and pinnacle hit “Now Are We” - a song that became a favorite in urban churches across America. Throughout the 1990s, Parker-Tolbert managed to work with such artists including CeCe Winans, Vickie Winans, Anthony Hamilton, Donnie McClurkin, Fred Hammond, Anointed Pace Sisters, Brandy, Mark Kibble of Take 6, Michelle Williams of Destiny’s Child and the late Ron L. Winans. She also provided background vocals for a number of projects, including her loving support on the posthumous Thomas Whitfield album; “Tribute to the Maestro”. She is highly known for writing CeCe Winans’ recent hit, “He’s Concerned”; off of her “Purified” album release.

Tolbert-Parker also tied the knot with popular gospel play screenwriter and producer David A. Tolbert and made her transition to Hollywood, California for greater opportunities as she began work on her very first solo project. But that reality was altered with a serious bout with breast cancer. That bout would later claim her life on April 21, 2007.

The gospel music industry loses a star today. Kayla Parker-Tolbert never reached her greatest potential, but she made a great impression on her listeners and those that experienced her wealth of experience and musical input.

The Homegoing Service is as follows:
Funeral Arrangements
Saturday, April 28, 2007
11:00 a.m.
Faithful Central
321 N. Eucalyptus Ave
Inglewood Ca, 90301
310-330-8000
(Send all flowers to the Church)

Internment: Forest Lawn Memorial Park
21300 Via Verde Drive
Covina, CA 91724800-204-3131

[TRACES OF KAYLA]
Kayla Parker (Official Site)
Kayla Parker (MySpace.com)

Celebrate Easter With Israel & New Breed

CBS will air a very special presentation of powerful praise-and-worship and gospel music featuring Integrity Gospel's Israel & New Breed on an exclusive special airing of the CBS Morning Show on Easter Weekend (Saturday) at 7 a.m.-9 a.m. EST. The live performance will feature cuts from their recent album release and RIAA-certified gold "Alive In South Africa". The album also picked up a victory at the 49th GRAMMY Awards for Best Traditional Gospel Album.

Their "Live From Another Level" propelled them to extreme popularity; landing at the #1 spot on the Billboard Gospel charts and #5 on the Christian charts.

Not much information has faced the light of day in the media world regarding this event, but according to BlackNews.com, the information is valid and current. Check local listing for air times in your area.

For more information contact:
Erma Byrd at (323) 965-5551 or erma@ebyrdcom.com

[BREEDING THE SOUND]
New Breed Music (Official Website)
Israel's MySpace Page
Rise & Shine With A Song In Your Heart (Black News.com)
Purchase "Alive In South Africa"

Luther Comes Alive

Darwin Hobbs, since he debuted as the gospel crooner with the rich velvet voice, has always been compared vocally to the late R&B legend Luther Vandross. And on ABC's "The Next Big Thing" this May, the former EMI Gospel recording artist will get his national opportunity to show and prove to the world how he bears a stylish resemblance with the great Luther.

"For years and years I've always been compared to Luther Vandross,” says the Atlanta-based crooner. “Finally, I'm able to act on the comparison by actually competing as Luther himself! What better way to honor this legendary icon in our industry than to sing his songs during a primetime slot on ABC!"

Hobbs will appear on the show - which debuts on Wednesday, May 30, 2007 at 8:00 p.m. EST. The reality-TV show conducts a national search in finding the best celebrity impersonators in the country. The show is hosted by Michele Merkin with celebrity judges: Jeffery Ross, Elon Gold and Lisa Ann Walter. Hobbs is expecting his fan base to support him on this groundbreaking opportunity and is publicly inviting them to the show's taping on April 28 at the Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles, CA.

Remembering Bishop G.E. Patterson

I'm far from being a member of the "Grand Ole" Church of God In Christ denomination. I have family that are COGIC (considered to be the second largest Pentecostal Christian church in the U.S. and the fourth largest Protestant religious denomination in the world) but I never found myself linked to the church. Being around them offered my amount of experience of the sanctified lifestyles and characteristics of the saints of this profound and well-respected denomination. But it wasn't until I encountered for the first time on a TBN telecast the likable, charismatic and down-home personality found in Gilbert Earl Patterson, the longtime leader of the Temple of Deliverance Church in Memphis, Tennessee. His approach to ministry was comforting and his viewpoints border lined strong fundamental guidelines and a passion for liberation and social change. Whether you were Democrat or Republican, it was hard to not like the Bishop. Whenever he tried to sale a point to his listeners, he gave it with a loving smile, that irresistible Southern charm and never feared to find the appropriate scripture and response to coincide with it. He was truly a man of truth to his very end. Even in the midst of confrontation and controversy, Bishop G.E. Patterson was the embodied example in modern society of how to conduct a life of balance and purity. His "over-the-top" views may have bothered a number of deep conservatives such as his position on women preachers, politics and advancements in technology in the church. "I used to be like many of the brothers: down on the women," he told delegates during a message in 2001. "But the Lord showed me that COGIC was started in a prayer meeting that was held in a woman's house." Women are "the envy of the religious world," he added. He also shared that we should overcome our differences with race and culture to spread our faith. "I don't know why we ever got stuck on that thing that we're only supposed to witness to black folks," Patterson said. "Once you've received the word, spread it. God's not going to do something to bless your work until you do something to bless his work."

After I viewed his weekly telecast and continued to listen to his life-changing messages of faith, hope and love, I almost felt as if I was a member of his church.

That voice was silenced on Earth on Tuesday, March 20, 2007 at 4:03 p.m. due to a serious battle with prostate cancer and heart failure at the Methodist University Hospital in Memphis. He was 67 years old. He was the founder and pastor of one of the country's largest mega-churches (totaling 12,000) and was also a gospel recording artist on his Podium Records label - even receiving a GRAMMY nomination for the "Just Right For A Miracle" album in 1999. At this year's Stellar Gospel Music Awards, he won Traditional Male Vocalist for his "Singing The Old Time Way Volume Two" album. He was considered to be one of the greatest clergyman of all time and anchored the Church Of God In Christ as Presiding Bishop since 2000.

"America lost an angel today," former U.S. Rep. Harold Ford Jr. of Memphis said in a statement on Tuesday. "He was favored by the Almighty, and he used his favor to instruct us all on how to be better servants."

We mourn and extend our prayers to the Church of God In Christ and Patterson's family during this time of bereavement. He will truly be missed and will forever be remembered.

FUNERAL & FINAL ARRANGEMENTS
THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2007 • 7 PM
(Local) TEMPLE OF DELIVERANCE MEMORIAL SERVICE

FRIDAY, MARCH 30, 2007 • 7 PM
TENNESSEE 4th JURISDICTION MEMORIAL SERVICE

SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2007 • 10 AM
CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST NATIONAL HOMEGOING SERVICE

All Services will be held at:
Temple of Deliverance Church of God In Christ
369 G.E. Patterson Avenue
Memphis, TN 38126

* All Cards and Condolences for Mother Lousie Patterson and Family may be sent to Temple of Deliverance at the above address.

J. Matthew Cobb
Editor-at-Large
PRAYZEHYMN Entertainment
www.prayzehymnonline.com

[G.E. PATTERSON - THE LIFE AND THE MEMORY]
BREAKING NEWS: Bishop G.E. Patterson Has Died (WREG-TV)
G.E. Patterson (Wikipedia)
BBless.org
COGIC.com

American Idol Close-up

Another season. Another blog to post. FOX's American Idol is still setting and breaking records. And while the other networks prepare to roll out their strategies to bring down the pop culture phenomenon, American Idol has already announce their Top 12 contestants and are gearing up for a few big specials in the weeks to come. From big-time special musical guests to an amazing fund raiser to benefit poor and devastated areas in Africa and in New Orleans.

But this season, most have glorified much of the bombshell drama and negative press on the show. But for a show this hot, the negative heat has only ignited the show's success to higher heights and has helped broaden the exposure of this season's contestants, as well as previous winners and potential stars.

Let's look at the AI scorecard, shall we.

Chris Daughtry, one of our big predictions from last season, is killing the stars on Billboard with his #1 self-titled album. And even though he has found his home in performing what is elementary to him (rock music). And while southern charmer Bo Bice, the popular runner-up to victory in Season 5, may have proved that AI could produce a rock star album, Dau ghtry took things to the next level with his more edgier look, distinctive modern approach and lots of sex appeal and presented an album that is being compared to modern rockers such as Fuel and Nickleback. The album reached #1 on Billboard Pop charts.

Fantasia is doing pretty good too. She just got picked up to join the stellar Broadway cast of The Color Purple - brought to life by mega-billionaire and television talk show host Oprah Winfrey. And not only that, her latest album release (this is #2 for her) is getting some love and attention from critics - calling it an album that shows depth and more personality than her debut. Fantasia calls the new album a mix of Aretha Franklin meets Tina Turner. Funny, we all thought she was capable of pulling that off when she was on the show. Her new album climbed to #3 on Billboard's R&B charts and #19 pop and is being anchored by her hip-hop club anthem single, "Hood Boy". Oddly, with all the praise her new album is getting, we should mention her first album sold more units; reaching #2 R&B and #8 pop.

All eyes are glued on Miss Dreamgirl Jennifer Hudson also after nabbing the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Effie White in the motion picture version of Dreamgirls. Even though she has taken a new career in acting, she hasn't forgotten her roots. She loves to sing and her acting role in Dreamgirls was definitely about singing and showed the world that she definitely has pipes worth signing to any record label. And in the next couple of months, she will be working on just that and will be releasing an album sometime in the fall of this year. In the meantime, her performances on the motion picture soundtrack, a glorious showcase of 60's pop-soul swinging ballads and dance numbers, are breathtaking and also claimed the #1 spot on both pop and R&B charts. Amazing accomplishment there, especially for a movie soundtrack.

Other winners including Carrie Underwood (whom took home a GRAMMY for Best New Artist) , Taylor Hicks and Ruben Studdard are also enjoying their careers and are still visible in the public eye. Seems like everyone is reaping their rewards from Idol fame.

So this season shouldn't be different. Right? Well, sorta. Seems like the guys this year are not as macho as they need to be. Our biggest predictions on the guys' side leans on the pop-flavored looks and sounds of Blake Lewis and Chris Richardson. Lewis leans more on the edgier, urban reincarnations of Justin Timberlake. He may not be the strongest male vocalist in the competition this year, but he definitely is pop material and has what it takes to form a good sounding record. Chris Richardson also has that pop wow-factor. He's refreshing and has good vocals and handsome features. He's also picked up some love for soul and R&B music - which should win favorable results across the cultural board.

But it's the girls that are bringing home the bacon this season. Both Lakisha Jones and Melinda Dolittle are delivering the goods on performance night and are both showing their passion for victory. Jones is one of those contenders that we didn't expect. She's not a goddess of beauty, but she's charming, likeable and full of personality. Her smile definitely is a connecting force to viewers. But it is when her killer vocals exit her lips that America hears talent in powerful motion. She leans on big ballads and fiery R&B to showcase her strengths. Dolittle is also a dominating force this season with her youthful style, facial expressions and over-the-top power vocals. She works the stage and is showing a broader range of material - a big plus for viewers.

No one can really explain why the 17-year old Sanjaya Malakar remains in the competition. All three judges remained baffled and puzzled over the better male vocalists leaving the show on previous nights while Malakar, with a weaker vocal and barely any soul and rhythm, remains standing with the other contenders. This is probably one of the biggest jokes in American Idol history. And who can forget the biggest episode of drama resting on Antonella Barba and her racy nude photos? Of course, the media are questioning AI's decisions of letting her remain in the competition until she was voted off the show on March 8. Even the controversial Rosie O' Donnell decided to put AI on blast for calling the show "racist" for kicking Frenchie Davis off a few seasons ago without her even getting much time on the show.

That's probably why American Idol works. These are real people, but there is some soap opera action that looms around all of this hype and fame.

At AllMusic.com, the fierceness continues as the All Music gang gets together for an adventure of words and opinions on the #1 show on TV. That's why I love them so - so opinionated yet they are so right. Check out the full conversation by clicking here.

[IDOL MINDS INDEED]
American Idol (FOX)
Mandisa Fan
Ruben Studdard
Daughtry
Fantasia

Jennifer Hudson (MySpace.com)
The Final 12 Revealed... (AllMusic.com)
Antonella Isn't Talking (RealityTVWorld)

Rap Music Sales Creates Concern

Glamorized lifestyles of booty, sex, drugs and big P-I-M-P-I-N-G in today's rap music take a turn for the worst. According to recent statistics, revealed by the Associated Press, rap music sales dropped a whopping 21 percent from 2005 to 2006, and for the first time in its 12 year history on the Billboard charts not one rap album was among the top 10 albums of the year. The report also stated that a recent study by the Black Youth Project showed a majority of youth "think rap has too many violent images". In a poll of black Americans by The Associated Press and AOL-Black Voices last year, 50 percent of respondents said hip-hop was a negative force in American society.

Rap insider Chuck Creekmur, who runs the leading Web site Allhiphop.com, says he got a message from a friend recently "asking me to hook her up with some Red Hot Chili Peppers because she said she's through with rap. A lot of people are sick of rap ... the negativity is just over the top now."

The article is indeed chilling and amusing in parts as hip-hop star David Banner expresses that his music is what he feels most Americans want to hear and is a depiction of society; reflecting the problems in urban communities. But let it be said that most rap consumers are white also and they may not be buying the material as much because they now see the consequences of the negatively-portrayed genre.

Many people are calling rap music the new "disco". Even though disco music never really died, the popular fad of it did and has now been replaced with other sub-genres including dance, techno and house music. Many predict this could also take place in the realm of rap music. And with popular rapper NaS scoring a hit with his controversial album "Hip-Hop Is Dead" - many may label him a modern prophet. It's not dead now...but according to sales, he apparently can predict the future. If this is the case, we probably won't have to worry about Oprah embracing rap in the future.

Thanks Aima for the story.

[FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS?]
Sales of Rap Albums Take Stunning Nosedive (FOXNews.com)

Am I Ashamed...

The Tyra Banks Show is a fierce, edgy talk show that targets young women and those looking for beauty tips and success strategies from the bona-fide diva of runway. It shouldn't be a question of doubt in observing Tyra Banks' acclaim to fame and how she is proclaiming her place in this world. But every now and then, Banks calms down her talk show with serious issues and topics that affect us all. Yes, she has her Oprah moments - you can tell she has been really influenced by the real Queen of Talk.

But today, she opened the door for another conversation piece. Everyone is talking about the Thursday, February 22th episode, "Promiscuous Girls". The topic is racy enough, but hearing the guests proclaim their personal passion for sex and to flaunt their obsession across television like they did is a different story. It even set the show's host on edge.

But Tyra brings her personal life coach, renowned teleevangelist Co-Pastor Paula White, on board to also investigate and dissect the guests' issues and problems. Only problem here is it was almost if we were looking at another person. No mention of Jesus Christ, God, El Shaddai, Jehovah, Holy Spirit, the Word or anything associated with deliverance was brought up. You only wonder if we just put on an act in front of church-bound people, then get up in front of a different and larger audience to proclaim that we must find our "inner spirit". White mentioned her victory over sexual abuse as a child, the fear of failure and the loss of her father from committing suicide, but she never brought up her relationship to Christ - the very things she gladly pronounce in her pulpit or on her own show. Feels like even the biggest teleevangelists in the country, the ones we pay Sunday after Sunday, just may be ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Still we do see the good of the show...the girls really needed help. Maybe Paula White may give them all a free book for a love gift of fifty dollars. But all is not lost. On Tyra Banks' message board, the responses ring with praise and adoration for Paula White's advice. Good going there.

[TAKE THAT TO THE BANKS]
Tyra Show (Official Website)
Paula White (Official Website)

Sisters In The Spirit Cancelled

After generating a big buzz on Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) with a mega-concert featuring their headlining artists, the Sisters In The Spirit looked like it was going to be a major success. No word on why, but it seems that the ALW Entertainment’s Sisters In The Spirit tour has been cancelled. The only real reasons behind the shutdown of this R&B/CCM/gospel tour is there was a lack of sales (posted on GospelCity.com). For Birmingham's date, we felt that it was a bigger problem brewing behind the scenes since the original Birmingham date was moved a week after. No word hit the press as to why the date was changed, but it was evident that there was some turbulence on board. Come to find out: the sales of the concerts weren’t moving swiftly enough. Part of the problem may have been on the tardiness of getting the word out into the community. You got to get on the radio faster than that. Plus, even though there a number of big names on the bill and major drawing cards (Angie Stone, Shirley Caesar, Kelly Price, Dorinda Clark-Cole), you got to remember everyone isn’t a fan of every artist. And with artists coming from all kinds of directions, you would think that their respected fans would have supported them on this tour. Unfortunately, dates in Atlanta, New York City, Baltimore, Charlotte, Chicago, Cincinnati, Philadelphia, D.C. and across the globe have been yanked from under their fans’ feet. Ticket-holders who paid by check or cash must return the tickets to the building of purchase to receive their refund. Those who paid by credit card will receive an automatic refund. At this present moment, ALW Entertainment has not released a press release regarding the matter nor have they updated their website about the tour cancellation.

[GET IN THE SPIRIT]
ALW Entertainment

Proper Grammer

The 49th Annual GRAMMY Awards proved to be something else. It’s one of those shows you just have to watch to get all of your tastebuds worked. There’s a little bit for everybody presented. This year, there was a lack of gospel artists...a humongous lack...but all of the soul and glorious belting from R&B’s finest during some amazing performances made it possible for those who were looking for the presence of a more sanctified, churchy image.

The talk of the town circulated The Police - which also featured renowned lead vocalist Sting. The group opened up the show with their stunning reggae-influenced “Roxanne” from 1978. Jamie Foxx then approaches the stage, attempting to pull off his comedic skills. Instead, it seemed as if the brother seemed distress for himself or black people. Thank God he’s not our Dr. King.

Beyonce Knowles delivered a moving performance of “Listen”; her original piece taken from the “Dreamgirls Motion Picture Soundtrack”. With big strings and a horn section, the song felt very glossy and over-the-top. Still, Knowles delivered the goods and showcased her amazing arsenal of vocal aerobics.

Mary J. Blige was one of the first stars to win a trophy; taken home three Awards in all. But no moment was as moving and magical than her first one - as she delivered a moving acceptance speech and a list of names showcasing the girl can speed-read like crazy. The names was so long and went so quick that the audience leaped on their feet towards the end. Years for not being recognized for her musical worth may have been the leaping factor for this particular moment in GRAMMY history, but it’s one that proves that the last shall become first.

John Legend graced the stage with a performance of “I’ll Be Coming Home” while fresh newcomer Corinne Bailey Rae (from Britain) and John Mayer each sung a selection from their new albums. The songs were pieced together perfectly by moving lighting sequences and mood changes. The medley concluded with Mayer’s soulful “Gravity” from the Continuum album. He easily channeled the spirit of Al Green through his music with a relaxed pop posture. All three artists proved love songs still exist. And they also remained on the stage together to sing on each other song - making a musical marriage of smooth R&B music that deeply penetrates the soul.

Mary J. Blige also sung her 1996 anthem “Be Without You” with a classical opener and speaking a piece of her testimony of love and triumph. Beautiful lighting of blue and white lights, along with her gorgeous dress, made her performance even more magical. And she held one particular note and belted it with so much soul on the attached song of "Stay With Me Baby" that would make you wonder if she’s the next Aretha Franklin.

Luadcris took home the Rap Album of the Year, but he may have taken home something else. More bad blood with Oprah Winfrey. He gave a shout-out of thanks to her in his acceptance speech - sending a lot of his fans into a jubilant, yet surprised response. Of course, the controversy still looms in the air for these two. But we respect Oprah for her position and understand that there’s just too much P-poppin’ in Hip-hop music and is affecting a good part of our culture. But enough of the commentary...

Smokey Robinson, Lionel Richie and Chris Brown delivered their tribute to R&B - each delivering a performance of one of their classics. Robinson, looking stiff yet still sounding good with his falsetto and a touch of vibrato, sung “Tracks Of My Tears”. Lionel Richie sung a serenading “Hello” in all black and at a baby grand piano in the middle of the audience floor. After his performance, attention then focused on Chris Brown with his ode to “Stomp The Yard” using fraternity stepping and breaking into his chart-breaking “Run It” - of course - lip synching and continuing to show us that he’s probably a better dancer than a singer. After this medley (which viewers thought was over after seeing all three gentlemen hug each other), a large picture of the late James Brown flies upon the background monitor and Christina Aguilera approaches the microphone wearing all white with her rendition of "It’s A Man’s, Man’s World”. The spirit of the Godfather of Soul emerged from Aguilera as she belted the song to perfection. Probably the greatest tribute to this legend to date.

Another tearful moment came when the screen fluttered with the images of music’s legends that have recently passed away. In the number was Gerald Levert, Arif Mardin, Billy Preston, Ruth Brown and closing the PowerPoint presentation was James Brown. As the film broke into a rare performance of “Night Train” from the 1960s, Chris Brown walked across the stage and danced alongside Brown. Reminding viewers of the Nat King Cole/Natalie Cole performance of “Unforgettable”. The audience then applauded - but the tribute was not over. A member of Brown’s band walked on the stage as Chris Brown departed with a glittered-up cape, usually used in Brown’s shows, and he then placed the cape upon the microphone stand. This indeed reminded us once again that James Brown’s last performance and appearance in spirit had already took place.

The big winners of the night was the Dixie Chicks - whom are very well known for their opinionated remarks towards politics and President Bush. The victory should sent an alarm to the White House that even the music world is now fed up. T.I. and Mary J. Blige also won big in hip-hop, R&B and rap categories, while the Red Hot Chilli Peppers took home an impressive number of wins as well along with American Idol winner Carrie Underwood in the country categories. Shut-outs included James Blunt and Corinne Bailey Rae and even India.Arie. Her recent album received a number of nominations, but once again was shut out for big win.

In the Gospel categories (that wasn’t televised), Kirk Franklin took home the most awards with two wins, even though Israel Houghton and New Breed led in nominations. Franklin took home Best Gospel Song and Best Contemporary R&B Album. Yolanda Adams won Best Gospel Performance for “Victory”. Sad to know, the Best Album for a Gospel Choir or Chorus or Group had been yanked from everyone’s feet. Guess there’s no such thing as choirs anymore.

Posted below are some of the memorable images of the night's celebration.

[ALL ABOUT THE GRAMS]
Grammy.com
Gospel 101: Golden Grams (PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com)
Complete List of Winners (MSN.com)
Chicks Make Nice, Blige Win Big (MSN.com)

Ricky Dillard Loses Atlanta Home

When word hit the media and blogs about the recent tragedy regarding gospel singer Ricky Dillard's six bedroom home located in DeKalb County, Georgia, disbelief were the first reactions to the breaking news. But serious confirmations were made from WSBTV-2 in Atlanta and the Associated Press - and that ended all doubt. Luckily, no one was injured and was in the house during the fire outbreak. Sources state the fire was a complete disaster - destroying the entire home along with awards and old footage of his choir's performances. There still is no confirmation on how the fire got started. Usually in instances like this the fire department investigates the reasons of the fire - but those have not been disclosed yet. Ricky Dillard, at the time, had just finished a live recording session for an upcoming album release on the Alliant music label in Toronto, Canada. According to the AP news release, Dillard had no plans of returning to Atlanta until February 2007 but will have to come back earlier to access the damage from the fire.

Our prayers remain with Dillard in this painful and heartbreaking situation.

[MORE NEWS TO LOOK INTO]
Singer's Home Is A Total Loss (BellaOnline.com)
No Injuries, But Fire Destroys Georgia Home (Yahoo Canada)

Stellarbration

The 22nd Annual Stellar Awards results are in. Sad to say that the taped award show won't be televised until weeks from now. That's so they can edit and crop down the long celebration to a meesly two hours. And oh yes, take out all the shouting, all the emotion, the long-long speeches and the awards they feel no one cares about. But the results are still in...and it looks like Donald Lawrence wins again. For the second year in a row, Donald Lawrence has swept the Stellar boards with big victories in multiple categories. He does it again with his send-off to the Tri-City Singers for the album "Finale'". He won Artist of the Year - whipping out Tye Tribbett, Kirk Franklin and Martha Munizzi and also took home awards for Choir of the Year, Producer of the Year, Contemporary CD of the Year, Contemporary Choir of the Year, Special Event CD of the Year, Music Video of the Year and Recorded CD Package of the Year. Strangely, most of the victories for "Finale'" zoomed in on Act One - the first installment of the live recording. There was another release, Act Two, that seemed to be unmentioned in the process. That collection featured amazing selections including the current radio hit "Encourage Yourself" and the uptempo jam "God Is". But D. Lawrence triumphs once again and has a lot of reason to celebrate.

Myron Butler did an impressive job in taking home some of the year's best awards including New Artist, Group/Duo of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year.

Kirk Franklin was unexpectedly overshadowed for his big single "Looking For You" as Byron Cage's funky "I Will Bless The Lord" took home the Single of the Year award. The song was penned by DC native Isaiah D. Thomas - an upcoming producer and accomplished songwriter.

In an act of loving kindness, Donald Lawrence decided to sow an award into the ministry of Tye Tribbett & G.A. Guess he felt that Tribbett was being overlooked that night since so many expected Tribbett to reap a major amount of awards. The decision for Lawrence to do that was unexpecting and full of heavy emotion. Expect to hear more about this moment in conversations circulating the gospel industry for awhile.

The James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement of Fame went to the Mighty Clouds of Joy while the Chervolet Most Notable Achievement Award went to the Clark Sisters.

Below are a final list of the winners for this year's Stellarbration.

Artist Of The Year
Donald Lawrence presents the Tri-City Singers
Song Of The Year
I Will Bless The Lord - Byron Cage
Choir Of The Year
Donald Lawrence presents the Tri-City Singers
Producer Of The Year
Donald Lawrence
Group/Duo Of The Year
Myron Butler & Levi
New Artist Of The Year
Myron Butler & Levi
Female Vocalist Of The Year
Dorinda Clark-Cole
Contemporary Group/Duo Of The Year
Myron Butler & Levi
CD Of The Year
Kirk Franklin "Hero"
Traditional Group/Duo Of The Year
The Williams Brothers & Their Superstar Friends
Contemporary Male Vocalist Of The Year
Tye Tribbett & G.A.
Traditional Male Vocalist Of The Year
Bishop G.E. Patterson
Contemporary Female Vocalist Of The Year
CeCe Winans
Traditional Female Vocalist Of The Year
Shirley Caesar
Contemporary CD Of The Year
Donald Lawrence presents the Tri-City Singers "Finale'"
Traditional CD Of The Year
New Life Community Choir featuring John P. Kee "The Reunion"
Urban/Inspirational Single/Performance Of The Year
Tye Tribbett & G.A. "Victory"
Traditional Choir Of The Year
Hezekiah Walker & LFC "20/85: The Experience"
Contemporary Choir Of The Year
Donald Lawrence presents the Tri-City Singers
Instrumental CD Of The Year
Ramsey Lewis "With One Voice"
Special Event CD Of The Year
Donald Lawrence presents the Tri-City Singers "Finale'"
Rap/Hip-Hop CD Of The Year
Da' T.R.U.T.H. "The Faith"
Children's Performance Of The Year
Youth For Christ "The Struggle Is Over"
Quartet Of The Year
Keith Wonderboy Johnson & the Spiritual Voices
Music Video Of The Year
Donald Lawrence presents the Tri-City Singers "Finale'"
Another strange factor to look at in this category: the other nominees had selected performances (one selection) while Lawrence won for an entire DVD presentation of songs.
Recorded Music Package Of The Year
Philpott Design/Jay Blakesburg for Donald Lawrence presents the Tri-City Singers "Finale'"
Praise and Worship CD Of The Year
Kevin Burroughs Neely "Fingers Of Fire Volume One"

[STELLAR GROOVES]
The Stellar Awards (Offical Website)
Gospelflava.com's Voyage To The Stellars
Recap: The 22nd Stellar Awards Live Taping

Good News / Bad News

Let's make it exclusive: Happy New Year!

Reports are in about the progress of gospel and Christian music from 2006 and according to Nielsen Christian Soundscan and the Gospel Music Association (GMA), the reports look favorable. US gospel album sales increased since 2005 and shows an impressive interest in digital sales as well. Reports concluded that in the first six months of 2006, gospel music sales grew 11.6 percent, compared to the four percent decline during the first quarter of 2005. The reports also had a hard time trying to categorize gospel music since most of their audiences borderline musical genres and styles. Styles include praise-and-worship, hip-hop and hardcore metal bands. Even though Christian music only makes up 6% in the overall music industry, the genre continues to grow. Top-selling artists of 2006 included Chris Tomlin, Casting Crowns, Kutless and Yolanda Adams.

Now onto the bad news: You may have already heard about the Max Siegel departure from his position(s) at Zomba/Verity, but if you haven't - here it goes. What is hailed as being one of the biggest moves and transitions of 2006, Gospel Music Executive, Max Siegel announced his departure from Verity Records (President) and Zomba Recording Corporation (Vice-President) and will be venturing into NASCAR as the CEO of Dale Earnhardt Enterprises, based in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Siegel's work in gospel music has been fantastic. He leaves behind a label that is now stronger than it ever was; racking up 42% of all of gospel music sales and a roster that includes heavyweights such as Kirk Franklin, Fred Hammond, Donnie McClurkin, Andrae' Crouch, Richard Smallwood and Donald Lawrence.

Jazzy Jordan, a former employee of Zomba and veteran in the gospel industry whom left Verity to start his own label (Jordan Entertainment), was called back to run both Verity and GospoCentric Records. Gessie J. Thompson now operates Jordan's label.

The Stellar Awards will be his last public appearance in the Gospel music industry. Tough.

[PROGRESS REPORTS]

Changing Faces (PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com)
GMA Announces Gospel Music Is Up In 2007
Max Siegel Announces Departure From Gospel
Top Christian/Gospel Headlines Of 2006 (EURweb.com)

The Godfather In Action

Nothing like watching Soul Brother Number One in action on the Mothership of soul music; Soul Train. James Brown visits the "train" during the 1970s and brings the Mighty J.B's to the stage. It's all live music...and this special performance is one not to miss. It's a powerful seven-minute powerhouse medley of James' influential prototype disco signatures: "Get On The Good Feet", "Soul Power" and "Make It Funky". And yes...we seriously had to post this. Because you hear modern gospel music all up in the funky grooves, blazing horn blasts and zesty chord action. All we need now is Tye Tribbett to master that split on stage.

Make sure you have Macromedia Flash downloaded on your computer and have a high-speed connection for best results.

James Brown (1933-2006)

James Brown, better known as the Hardest Working Man in Show Business and referred by many as the Godfather of Soul, leaped upon the musical scene in the mid-1950s with his cool, romantic R&B ballads such as "Try Me" and "Please, Please, Please". But he did something highly unique during his generation that would shake the foundations and frontiers of American music. He would become one of the forerunners of soul music and would also become a pioneer of fresher, unique and zesty musical styles such as funk and disco during the late 1960s and 70s. Songs like "Papa's Got A Brand New Bag", "Say It Loud", "Sex Machine" and "I Feel Good" shook the music world completely. That same rumble heard decades ago is still being heard and felt now even in the pop and hip-hop music world as many of artists pay homage and tribute to the Godfather using sampling - an remixing artform using beats and melodies of original songs.

James Brown blessed us all, whether we knew it or not. His musical style and signature moves has influenced generations of musical giants from most genres. Even in gospel music, artists ranging from the more contemporary (Israel Houghton, Hezekiah Walker, John P. Kee, Ricky Dillard) to the familiar traditional (Dorothy Norwood, Keith Wonderboy Johnson, Rev. Milton Biggham, James Bignon, Angela Spivey) have formed their own styles and sets of music around the funky good sounds of the Godfather. And while he never made a career singing gospel music, he drew from its heavy rhythms and the spirited excitement from gospel music and incorporated it into his now-trademark vocal attributes. He literally placed soul music, one of the early descendants of gospel, into the fibers of American music and culture.

James Brown passed away on Christmas Day 2006 (December 25) at the age of 73. He was hospitalized with severe pneumonia at Emory Crawford Long Hospital on Sunday and died of heart failure around 1:45 a.m. He won a Grammy for lifetime achievement in 1992, as well as Grammys in 1965 for "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag" (best R&B recording) and for "Living In America" in 1987 (best R&B vocal performance, male.) He was one of the initial artists inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986, along with Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry and other founding fathers.

[A GOOD LOOK AT THE GODFATHER]
Remembering The Godfather (MSNBC.com)
Godfather Of Soul (Offical Website)
James Brown Dies At 73 - New York Times Obituary
PRAYZEHYMN Article: Funky Sensations

Dear City Stages

Dear City Stages,

I wanted to write this letter, after I noticed during the last couple of weeks, that you began to reach out to the community like never before asking for support to help pull your world-class festival out of the red. I have been following your annual event from day one and recall the days of old as being promising and hopeful. The early stages showed signs of great expectations and we have witnessed many festivals hosted here in our great city of Birmingham emerge from the ashes and fall back into shameful crypts. Yet, your music and arts festival still lives on. And for that achievement, you should be commended.

But I am really puzzled in how on your recent string of commercials to save City Stages with the public friendly www.sustaincitystages.org campaign you are using the faces of the faith communities to help bring in dollars to your collapsing institution. It's not as if I have a problem with seeing Pastor Stephen Green, of More Than Conquerors Faith Church, on television...even though he seems to be a very popular guy on local television. It's just that I've seen how each year the festival seems to neglect, abandon and disappoint many music forms. Particularly with gospel music.

I've heard many excuses over the years for this problem. You feel it's better to focus on local acts because, in the opinion of your staff, you feel there's a lot of great talent and music here in our area alone. That's a great and positive statement to make. But I tend to look at it using an industry perspective. You invest in bringing big acts to City Stages on rock and pop stages, and sometimes in R&B/hip-hop, but the failure of focusing on big drawing cards to the former gospel stage is a sign that it's not about there being great talent here. Instead it's about putting the money where you feel it needs to be. And gospel music is one of those areas that you fail to fully endorse.

In previous years, your agency has booked great artists like Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Helen Baylor, Wanda Nero Butler, Rodney Posey and LaShun Pace for the former Gospel Stage. But I was always bothered by the lack of well-respected artists you drew in each year. You only could afford ONE artist to highlight the entire three-day festival in the field of gospel music. Some years your festival decided to only feature the gospel stage for two days and most years you closed the gospel stage very early, while the other stages went on; leaving the saints confused on where to go. And some years, you confused everybody by putting gospel artists on stages that is highly surrounded by patrons drunk on site. I still can remember at 1:15 a.m. when the Georgia Mass Choir finally appeared on the Coca-Cola stage a few years ago and still having to deal with drunkards and confused hecklers. That same idea was used when you booked Kurt Carr & the Kurt Carr Singers two weeks before last year's festival....and then you put them on the Coca-Cola Stage...as the first act. Everyone knows you put the better acts towards the end, yet you put one of our great sensations in today's gospel music at the very beginning of your festival's lineup on that Sunday.

Then I was extremely bothered by how the Gospel Stage dissolved and was renamed as the Music Oasis stage - a stage focusing on eclectic forms of world music ranging from Celtic chimebell ensembles to other religious musical styles. And in the midst of it, you decided to put a few local gospel choirs up. On paper, your record makes it look like you care about gospel music; a historic American musical genre established from the blues during the 1920s and has blossomed into one of the fastest growing genres of music today. But may the truth be told: City Stages is no greater and no better than most industry professionals. It's a game of politics...and because you know we reside in the Bible belt, faith is an essential part of our lifestyles. So you use faith in the end to spearhead a fundraising organism to help City Stages rise from its current sickness.

But this is a sickness that you created, I believe. You killed the presence of real gospel music and replaced it with a very disappointing presentation of local acts that need the same intensity that your bigger stages receive year after year. They want to see Mary Mary, they want to see the Canton Spirituals, they want to see Shirley Caesar, they want to see Yolanda Adams, they want to see Richard Smallwood and Timothy Wright and Youthful Praise and Lisa McClendon. Sadly, you still have not heard their cry.

I look at music festivals across the country and notice that most of them have done the same thing you are doing and are facing. But you can still go to Chicago, New Orleans, Atlanta...they have gospel stages and festivals loaded with the best in gospel music. That's something City Stages fails to live up to.

I refuse to support CityStages now...and I really hope that the Greater Birmingham community, particularly those who really love and support gospel music, will stand with me. We hope you will get the message and learn from your current consequences.


A Disappointed Customer,

J. Matthew Cobb
PRAYZEHYMN Entertainment
PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com

Mother Bowman Passes

Mother Mattie A. Bowman, 82, mother of renowned gospel artist Vickie
Winans, slipped away from this side on December, 12 2006. She suffered a massive heart attack on Labor Day this year and had been hospitalized since. The family
hour and viewing of the body will take place on this Sunday,
December 17, 2006 from 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. at:

Perfecting Church
7616 E. Nevada
Detroit, MI 48234
313-365-3787

The homegoing service will follow directly after at 4:00 p.m.

Please Send All Flowers to:
Mattie A. Bowman
Stinson Funeral Home
16540 Meyers
Detroit, MI 48235

Or to:
Perfecting Church
7616 E. Nevada
Detroit, MI 48234

Please Send All Cards, Condolences, Etc. to:
Vickie Winans
6689 Orchard Lake Rd. #256
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
248-253-3203
Email: vwinans@aol.com

A Note From Vickie:
Those of you who have my personal cell phone number, please feel
free to call or text me! I need all the strength I can get! Myself
and my entire family wish to thank all of you in advance for your
love, support, prayers, flowers, gifts, emails, words of
encouragement, smiles, hugs, and whatever else you have given and
will give us! WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH! My Mother will suffer no more!
She is finally with Jesus! And in her own words she would say, "HEY
GLORY!"

Florist Information:
Bellasario Florist
Ralph Bellasario
23420 Gratiot
East Point, MI 48021
(586)-773-7070

Wesley Berry Florist, Inc.
6677 Orchard Lake Rd.
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
(248) 851-3404
www.800wesleys.com

Pretty Bouquet
326 W. Lafayette Blvd.
Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 416-8607
(313) 963-0775

[LINKING TO VICKIE]

Vickie Winans (Official Website)
"Farewell" - Tribute to Mother Bowman (mp3)