The Very Rugged Cross At Mt. Calvary

After reading this, people might start calling this blog nothing less than a gossip resource. But don't get mad at me...I'm not making the headlines. I just report the headlines.

Today's news just got troublesome for one of the biggest mega-churches in the Washington, D.C. area - Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church - headed by Bishop Alfred Owens, Jr. and the highly-charismatic and popular preacher Co-Pastor Susie Owens. And it's all because of a female choir member who probably hungers to be the next Wendy Williams. In an e-mail sent out to the pastor in December and January, the undisclosed choir member decided to out more than 100 church members and staff of a number of the church's choirs; accusing them to be homosexuals. The names were mostly male choir members.

In one of her emails, she states that she "will be leaving the choir at the top of the year because eighty percent of the tenors are homosexual and act more like a female in choir rehearsal than I do." She released a second email on Jan 2, after her first email identified 45 church members as gay, releasing another 62 church members - with both first and last names attached.

Precautionary actions within the church have been made - coming from Owens - as he met with all of the members mentioned in the first e-mail. According to a Washington Blade article - a popular DC gay newspaper, an unidentified male forwarded the email to them and also acknowledged that Owens "wanted to help people who wanted help to not be gay and that he was willing to help anybody change from being gay." Gay activists are appalled by the emails and are pursuing to make headlines with this story.

By the way, this is not the first time Greater Mount Calvary has made news headlines. In April 2006, homophobic remarks were made By Bishop Alfred Owens, using the words "faggot" and "sissy", during his Palm Sunday sermon.

You all don't want to hear my "two cents" on this matter. So I will conclude the article with these wise words: "If you have such a problem with homosexuals being in your church, why did you let them in your membership." And to the concerned choir member with the Wendy Williams spirit: "Was that an act of holiness? If you don't like where you are, go another direction. If you don't like a business, just stop going to it. That's what I believe.

And don't yall email me for the original copy of the emails. That's just down right messy!

[MOUNT CALVARY'S BIG CROSS]
Outing campaign roils black church (Washington Blade)
Mt. Calvary Has A New Cross (PRAYZE Report)

Motown Under Fire Again

Gosh, just when you thought Motown couldn't get any more bad press.

Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, whom was a visible presenter at last year's Stellar Awards and is known for being dubbed as the Hip-Hop Mayor, appeared beside his wife on a video that was heard all across the world asking for the public's forgiveness. The video is pretty sketchy when analyzing it from beginning to end because it never goes into details on what he's apologetic for. His words are as follows: "I am the mayor. I made a mistake. I truly apologize to you. I am accountable."

Sounds like a 9-year old picking up his first Balloons and Bears books for the first time. But the Detroit mayor is addressing concerns about an alleged steamy love affair from his former aide, Christine Beatty. A prosecutor is now investigating if he lied under oath regarding the affair last summer in which both denied having a physical relationship. Because of legal matters, Kilpatrick was not allowed to discuss any serious details about the case or situation on air. A conviction from lying under oath can lead to a maximum of fifteen years in prison.

The dirty laundry of the entire situation surrounds the biggest blooper of them all: the steamy, flirty and even sexually explicit dialogue found in their text messages - all recorded on Kilpatrick's work cell phone. The only words the mayor's wife, Carlita, released regarding her husband's turmoil were that she "is angry, hur and disappointed, but no question I love my husband."

The speech was recorded and aired from his church home, Greater Emmanuel Institutional COGIC. Church name sounds familiar? Of course it does...it's the church where J. Drew Sheard is the pastor and gospel singer Karen Clark-Sheard is the first lady. Seems like the Sheard family got another thorn to pick from their flesh. Our prayers go out to the good folk of Detroit.

He has not stepped down from his mayoral position; returning back to work after the apology. According to the Battle Creek Enquirer, he has resigned from the Florida A&M University foundation board, school officials said.

[TEXTS ON KILPATRICK]

Editorial: Misconduct of Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick (About.com)

Detroit reacts to Mayor Kilpatrick's address (Detroit News)
Text of remarks by Detroit MayorKwame Kilpatrick, his wife (WOOD TV)

Another Choir Bites The Dust

Okay...while the PRAYZEHYMN Message board lights up with all of the free advertisements and soliciting a brotha can handle from Dexter Walker and his Chicago-based community choir, Zion Movement, I felt like bloggin' my thoughts on this side of heaven - at the PRAYZE Report. And definitely feel it's necessary.

I find it so strange after I reviewed his YouTube music video of '>Hezekiah Walker's "Lift Him Up" on the recently posted commentary on PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com (The Spirit of Rebellion) and speaking out against the radical and rebellious nature of the entire rendition, a link of the video is posted up during a Walter Hawkins/Favorite Tune topic. Now when did Walter Hawkins ever pen "Lift Him Up" or ever cover that particular song? Well, let's just say that it had to have been posted after some Zion Movement supporters decided to "move" with a plug for the video since I publicly announced my unfavorable opinion of the video. A deliberate move to try to prove Mr. J Matt wrong.

I have always considered Dexter Walker an opportunist. Not to say he's a bad person, I just think - my opinion here - he's just stuck like glue to his own ministry and what he does. Don't believe me: join the board and check out every single time Walker has posted and witness how many times it's been about him and his ministry. I think everyone should have a good outlook on what they do...but when a person makes decisions that, in the end, come off as being arrogant, standoffish, self-absorbed...and they are always in defense-mood by trying to glamorize something that isn't quite acceptable to the mass public, that's when they need to take a step back and reevaluate their own selves.

Personally, I'm tired of all of the ZM chatter, especially when I couldn't find but one or two okay songs on the project. And I'm not the only one that will go on the record to profess that.

Go ahead and be mad at me...watch the video for yourself. And if you like crazy antics, fake-looking flamboyant praise breaks and busy musicians playing all over one another like it's a reality-TV talent contest, then be my quest. I can't help it I listen to good music and am proud to say that. For those whom are publicly patting artists on the back and joining their fan clubs, make sure you are not doing it on purpose but with a spirit of confidence.

[THE MOVEMENT OF DEXTER]
Dexter Walker & ZM "Lift Him Up" video (YouTube.com)
The Spirit of Rebellion (PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com)

Campaign MLK

On MLK Day, observed by millions of Americans on January 21, we pause to reflect on the legacy and life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Seems like it's also a day of campaigning for everything that MLK fought for the heart of equality, the end of segregation, economic and political empowerment and anti-war progress.

As the presidential caucuses and primaries continue and as the country fearfully awaits the arrival of Super Tuesday, the Democratic party leaders (Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and John Edwards) prepared their speeches to deliver at several of the country's memorial services in honor of the great civil rights leader. On Sunday, Barack Obama's speech at Ebenezer Baptist in Atlanta almost sounded like a sermon as listeners awaited to hear his commentary and promises for the country's future through his potential administration. But listeners were also awaiting to hear what new comments he had for former president Bill Clinton. The media has been on a uprising trying to smite the two leaders in a war of words ever since Bill Clinton labeled his promises for the future a "fairy tale." Obama decided to counterattack Clinton while trying to do bring down his current competition for the Democratic nomination, Sen. Hilary Clinton. After a victory in both Nevada and New Hampshire, Sen. Obama and Sen. Clinton are considered by most critics and news outlets to be in a very close match for victory.

It seems like Sen. Hillary Clinton has experienced a war of words from all sides of the spectrum. For being a woman and the only woman running for office and for being married to former president, Clinton is experiencing from most of her opposition a great deal of discomfort. Stll, she rises up to the challenge and proves her experience is as mightier than most realize. On Sunday, Sen. Clinton attended an observance for MLK Day at the esteemed Abyssinian Baptist Church of Harlem, pastored by Reverend Calvin O. Butts, III. A mix of boos from Obama fans and cheers from the crowd awaited her during her visit. A small but boisterous crowd declared that Clinton was there to steal the black vote, as the pastor of the mega-church announced his endorsement to Clinton. According to most polls, the Democratic party in the eyes of most black Americans sees the "Clinton vs. Obama" situation as a war on race...an issue of black vs. white.

According to Letta Tayler of Newsday.com, hecklers continued to repeat "Harlem for Obama", briefly drowning out Butts' endorsement. When Clinton passed cups of steaming coffee to the crowd on the bitterly cold day, one Obama fan shouted, "I don't want your coffee!" "HIL-lary! HIL-lary!" Clinton supporters shouted back.

Outside the church, Butts, who also is president of SUNY at Old Westbury, said his endorsement of Clinton had prompted angry phone calls from some parishioners. But, he added, "a vote for Hillary is not a vote against Barack Obama or any community, be it African-American, Latino or any other." Instead, he said, it is a vote for the candidate "who has the vision and experience to make things happen."

On MLK Day, a debate featuring the Democratic candidates and things just got ugly between Obama (whom made an announcement earlier that we should unite) and Clinton. Edwards put a little humor into the situation when he acknowledged that there were three people in the debate, not two.

The highlighted moment of the evening surrounded Obama's defense about recent comments he made about Republican ideas and Ronald Reagan. During his comments, Clinton interrupted and said she has never criticized Obama's remarks on Reagan. Obama, slyly responded, "Your husband did." She snapped back, "I'm here. He's not."

The debate, sponsored by the Congressional Black Caucus Institute and CNN, took had a change of direction later on as Clinton and Edwards questioned Obama's present votes for legislation laws that would have have downfall effects and possibly bring about legal concerns. Still, a great number of African-Americans during the debate hoorayed for Obama; showing him support possibly because of Obama's skin color.

South Carolina, a state Obama ventured through last year with a gospel tour featuring Donnie McClurkin and Mary Mary, holds their primary on Saturday, Jan. 26.

As MLK Day comes to a close in 2008, we must remember that our right to vote is essentially important...not just to our race, but for the good of mankind. Let's vote for the best candidate involved...and not just because of a person's skin color, but let's vote for the best and most experienced person for the job. In the end, it's performance that is going to get us out of this mess we are in as a country.

[CAMPAIGN MLK CONTINUES]
Hillary gets mixed reception in Harlem (Newsday.com)
Clinton, Obama clash at debate (Yahoo! News)

Why Did I Take Steroids?

Maybe this should be the new film title for super black cinema producer Tyler Perry, whom soared to stardom with his best-selling Madea plays. The actor and director along with an A-list of celebrities including Mary J. Blige, Wyclef Jean, Timbaland and 50 Cent were named in connection with an Albany, NY-based steroid investigation that alleges the celebs took performance-enhancing drugs.

None of the celebrities was accused of violating the law. Instead, the investigation has focused on stopping the flow of the drugs by cracking down on doctors who illegally prescribe them without seeing patients, and on the so-called anti-aging clinics, pharmacies and other distributors that supply the drugs.

While Mary J. Blige's reps commented on the report and claims she has never taken any illegal steroids, reps from the other stars' cabinets have not yet commented.

Let's just hope Madea ain't taking these drugs to enhance that supersized chest of hers anymore.

Another Stellar Sweep Goes Wrong

Okay, I'm not a hater so don't get things twisted...but the Stellars seem to love honoring those that fit well in the popular category, because the Voting Committee of these awards are now only focusing on their T-Mobile 5 Favs instead of focusing on the big picture.

The announcement of Saturday's 23rd Annual Stellar Award results are finally out (sorry, didn't attend) and to my surprise, as usual, the bulk of the awards ended up going to the good ol' buddies of the industry. Donald Lawrence has taken home in a three year radius almost every award since the release of 2004's I Speak Life. Now he's being honored for two projects he's affiliated with: newcomer DeWayne Woods "Introducing DeWayne Woods & When Singers Meet" and the final chapter of the Clark Sisters "Live: One Last Time." Both albums, produced by D. Lawrence, stole the show and apparently stole the awards from the other nominees. Call it the ultimate black ghetto award fiasco gone wrong again. Why I call it a fiasco? Because even the big critics, such as myself, know that both of these albums lacked substance, strong material, and an evenness that great albums should possess - and better suited projects that were nominated failed to get the big endorsement from the voting squad of the Stellar Awards.

Check this out and tell me if this doesn't make sense.
Artist of the Year - Clark Sisters
Song of the Year - Let Go, Let God by DeWayne Woods
Male Vocalist of the Year - DeWayne Woods
Producer of the Year - Donald Lawrence
Group or Duo of the Year - Clark Sisters
New Artist of the Year - DeWayne Woods
CD of the Year - Live - One Last Time by the Clark Sisters
Traditional Group of the Year - Clark Sisters
Urban Inspirational Single/Performance of the Year - Let Go, Let God by DeWayne Woods

Almost look like the credits to a YouTube Do-It-Yourself-music video.

Don Johnson - you oughta be ashamed of yourself for hiring and soliciting a narrow-minded team of inexperienced voters to come up with this year's wins. Use some common sense here. Dreamgirls, the motion picture, was a great film and deserved at least one or two Oscars, but it didn't deserve a sweep...and it didn't. Sweeps usually take place when there's nothing else good in place. Personally if I were a Stellar nominee, I would have wanted a refund and probably would have wanted to call my lawyer - demanding to sue the entire event - for stealing my time.

What makes this situation even more frustrating is knowing that both projects were marinated by the gospel industry with circumstantial hype and overdone "reality-TV" glitz that most of the other albums couldn't compete. In the end, it really looks like the other candidates - even if they had perfect albums and performances - couldn't stand in the ring with the Clark Sisters' heartbreaking final album as a group and the buzz surrounding DeWayne Woods' popular search-engine bio announcing his deliverance from HIV. But when did music award shows become humanitarian awards?

Honestly, there's too many friendships and buddy systems in place at the Stellars. Thank God for real award shows like the GRAMMYs. At least they cover the entire spectrum of each genre and try to deliver a more eclectic and reasonable response to their voting process.

And I don't care who hates me after I post this - because I don't hate anyone. I just believe fair is fair. When I think of Best Album of the Year...I don't think my best friend should win it because I hung out with them at the mall last weekend and I took a picture with them at last year's church convocation. But I must get over this setback in gospel music history...I always thought R&B was my true calling.

PRAYZEHYMN Goes Radio

Okay, a new year is here and we are hoping to do a few things differently, especiallywhen today's status quo even wants a little taste of change in their system. So we are debuting in January our brand-new live, 24-7 radio station called the PRAYZEHYMN Express.

Powered by Live365.com, the station will feature some of the best in traditional and contemporary gospel music - and alot of stuff that won't get played on your local radio stations. Plus, for a couple of more weeks we will be playing the TOP 50 Gospel Songs of 2007 - taken from our PRAYZEHYMN exclusive article posted on the website.

What's so cool about the station is that you can vote for tracks you like or dislike...and listening to the station is totally free. If you don't like the commercials or interpretions due to being time-out or lack of activity, you can always subscribe to Live365.com as a VIP member.

The station's playlists are constantly updated so you never what's going to be played next. We are also working on posting brand-new JUST YAKIN: BILL & BEE segments on the station, along with artist interviews and other cool ideas to help spruce up the station's programming.

Love the station? E-mail us and let us hear your feedback.

[LISTEN TO THE EXPRESS]
PRAYZEHYMN Express (Live365.com)

BMI and ASCAP Gets The Party Started

BMI and ASCAP, two of the key performance rights organizations in music, are gearing up for a weekend of festivities during the 23rd Annual Stellar Awards.

BMI's 9th Annual Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards Luncheon will honor and salute Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Mighty Clouds of Joy and Pastor Marvin Winans. The invitation-only celebration is set to take place at the Rocketown venue in Nashville, TN.

ASCAP's big Stellar Award Nominee Reception, staged at the ASCAP building in Nashville, will feature appearances from J Moss, Smokie Norful, Karen Clark-Sheard, Kelly Price, Darius Brooks, Maurette Brown Clark, Micah Stampley, Troy Sneed and many others. This event, hosted by Damita Haddon, takes place on January 11 at 3:00 p.m. In order to attend you must comfirm your attendance with the ND Co. at 323.298.8660.

Major distributor Central South Gospel will be hosting a number of events as well during Stellar Awards week at the Gibson Showcase in Nashville . Details of the events have been posted below:

10:30 a.m.
Jazz Brunch/Meet-And-Greet
Special Guests: Bernard Harris Trio and Kevin Turner

12:00 noon - 2:30 p.m.
Educational Workshop

3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
1st Annual Gospel Announcers' Spotlight Awards
Hosted by David Mann (Mr. Brown from Tyler Perry's Meet The Browns)
Special Guests: Vickie Winans, Martha Munizzi, Micah Stampley, Mary Alessi, William Murphy

4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Invitation-Only Dinner

5:30 p.m.
Annual Praise Party
Special Guests: Myron Williams, Marvin Winans Jr., Norman Hutchins, William Murphy, Mary Alessi, Jason Nelson, David & Tamela Mann, Bryan Wilson, Bishop John Francis, Jerard Woods, Dave & Nicole Binion and Tarralyn Ramsey

10 p.m.
Urban Soul Summit Concert
Hosted by John Gray
Special Guests: Canton Jones, Mr. Del, Vashawn Mitchell, William Demps and Antwaun Stanley

Seems like the Stellars is becoming a bigger and badder attraction for gospel lovers. Glad to know the hype is looking favorable for one of the music world's underrated music shows.

[STELLAR COVERAGE]

The Stellar Awards (Official Website)

Stellar Awards at Gospelflava.com
ASCAP Stellar Award Nominee Reception (Flyer)

Dollar and Long Get It Wrong

According to a report released by the Christian Post Reporter and the Associated Press, only two ministries on the list of high-profiled ministries under investigation by the U.S. Senate cooperated: Kenneth Copeland Ministries and Joyce Meyer Ministries.

Sen. Charles Grassley (R-Iowa), who is leading the investigation, responded: "It’s good that some of the ministries are cooperating. I hope all of them will cooperate in the end," said Grassley, the ranking Republican on the Senate Committee on Finance, in a statement. "For the focus of this inquiry, ministries are the same as any other non-profit organization. It’s a question of abiding by tax laws just like any tax-exempt group."

A month ago, Grassley sent letters to six high-profile ministries – led by Paula and Randy White, Creflo Dollar, Eddie Long, Benny Hinn, Meyer and Copeland – requesting financial statements and responses to pointed questions about salaries, perks and other organizational and personal finances. The Senate probe was launched to determine whether the ministries are abusing their tax-exempt status as churches for extravagant lifestyles.

Early in the investigation, Dollar had released some information about the finances for his church – World Changers Church International in College Park, Ga. – showing that the 30,000-member church took in $69 million in 2006."I generally don't make this public," he said at the time.Dollar along with several other pastors have raised concerns about invasions of privacy and violations of religious freedom regarding the Senate probe.Dismissing the religious liberty argument, Grassley said, "Forget it. They don't have a leg to stand on."

Representatives of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, Ga., said publicly that the ministry will cooperate with the Senate request but Grassley has not yet received any material or contact from the ministry. Bishop Eddie Long, who leads the Baptist church, has called Grassley's request unjust.

Meyer surprised many last week with her press statement claiming that her ministry embraces "this latest opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to transparency with our supporters and our dedication to the continual improvement of our own systems of accountability." Very bold statement...and one that shows integrity. Horray for Meyer! If we only knew exactly how and why Dollar and Long got it wrong.

[READ FOR YOURSELF]
Creflo Dollar, Eddie Long sunb Senate probe (AJC.com)
Two of Six Preachers Turn Over Financial Data for Probe (Christian Post)

More Questions Raised In Probe of Preachers (Christian Post)

The One Thing The Academy Got Wrong...

What happened to Robin Thicke?

This is the puzzling question pop and R&B experts are asking about the list of the 50th Annual GRAMMY Award nominations. Requirements for GRAMMY nominations and award eligibility state that albums must be released during the Eligibility Year - which happened to be October 1, 2006 through September 30, 2007. Robin Thicke's explosive urban/R&B album, The Evolution of Robin Thicke, was released on October 3, 2006.

The nominees in the R&B category, including Jill Scott, Tank, Dwele and Ryan Shaw, are startling when one compares it to the magnitude of Thicke's project. Not one time was Thicke nominated in a pop or R&B category this year - a massive misfortune on the Academy's part. Every last nominee in the R&B/urban categories are black...something Thicke is not. So do you think that was the problem?

One thing Thicke's single, Lost Without U, had over the other nominees is that it reached number one on the R&B charts and even reached number 14 pop. The album itself went to number 1 R&B and number 5 pop. Oh, but excuse me, the Academy doesn't just recognize best-sellers...they award quality and content. That probably explains why Crank That (Soulja Boy) was nominated for Best Rap Song. What marvelous content that is. Okay...maybe I should have changed the header's title. It should instead read "Two Things The Academy Got Wrong."

To read the official list of the 50th Annual GRAMMY Awards nominations, click here.

Weeks vs. Bynum: Round Two

Seems like the battle between Bishop Thomas Weeks III and popular teleevangelist Juanita Bynum is still on.

A recent press conference on Thanksgiving Day was staged by Thomas Weeks III on the church property of Global Destiny Church in Atlanta as he faced allegations and statements made by his estranged wife Juanita Bynum during an interview in the current issue of Essence magazine. He also ended his silence concerning the tax debt that made national news surrounding his Duluth, Georgia home and the crisis surrounding Global Destiny Ministries.

“The time has come," Weeks states, "to bring clarity to a number of rumors, conjectures, lies, dramatized statements. I have not come here to attack Juanita Bynum.” He furthered that in order to protect his wife; he has purposely rejected countless opportunities for interviews to publicly answer allegations against him regarding domestic violence. He said, “I must address fact from fiction,” calling the rumors and conjectures “a serious plot to destroy” his ministry and everything that “I am about.” Yet he believes that the rocky marriage is still repairable.

As for the foreclosure on their home, Weeks explained that the house was under a lease-purchase agreement and that they had fulfilled their part of the agreement without making the decision to purchase it.

Shocking details, from his point-of view, were also released from Weeks claiming the severe bruises that were photographed and identified by her staff during the August meeting at an Atlanta hotel were not made by him as she proclaims and believes it is another way to sabotage his name and ministry. "She is part of a serious plot to destroy everything I was apart of,” he said, adding that the article, which features part two next month, was “crafted to make me look like a villain.” He even went further to state that she has been the aggressor in the relationship and he has been beaten by her numerous times.

“Everything will come out in court,” he repeated throughout the news conference.

On Sunday, Bynum responded to Weeks’ charges in a statement through her publicist. "Bishop Weeks is doing exactly what he promised he would do and that is, try to destroy my name with lies, fabrications and exaggerations," the pastor said. "His behavior is to be expected."

She went on in her statement, made by her publicist Amy Malone, that "at this stage of my ministry/career with major projects pending, I would not have had any motive to stage my own attack and bring worldwide negative press to myself. I am confident in the power of truth! I was Juanita Bynum when I walked into this marriage and I will continue to be Juanita Bynum as I exit from this marriage in spite of all false allegations that have come against my name."

The couple's divorce is still pending in Gwinnett County Superior Court.

[EVIDENCE UNDER TRIAL]

Bishop Weeks Holds Press Conference (GospelCity.com)
Bynum: "Bishop Is Trying To Destroy My Name" - (AJC.com)
Weeks Speaks (BET.com)
The Week-est Link (PRAYZE Report)

John Legend Gets Lifted Up

Oh what a day it would be to hear the talented, super-seductive vocals of R&B crooner John Legend sing a song unto the Lord.

Of course, it isn't such a big deal since the Springfield, Ohio native comes from a religious background - growing up in church singing gospel and playing piano at the tender age of six. The session piano player, who later picked up work with Lauryn Hill, Kanye West and Alicia Keys, gained an extreme amount of popularity moving to Philly for college life. Now John Stephens, or Legend in the pop world, has an incredible resume filled with three GRAMMYs and top ten records and a list of hit singles. It is his interesting combinations of soul and R&B music that places Legend into the same arena of classics such as Donny Hathaway, Teddy Pendergrass and Al Green. And we thought for a second R&B died when Luther Vandross left us...

Anyone that knows Legend's background good enough will even pull out the strengths of such a talented family. Danielle Stephens, Legend's sister, is a longtime member of Israel Houghton's New Breed. Kashaan Stephens, now located in Cincinnati, is also preparing to release his upcoming debut project on the world. The Stephens family even gathered together to sing with the R&B hero on his "Get Lifted" album.

News finally leaked out that Legend will be returning to his gospel roots during an upcoming appearance at BET's live taping of their Celebration of Gospel festivities. The program will feature gospel legends including Kirk Franklin, Shirley Caesar, Yolanda Adams and R&B super-diva Patti LaBelle. The event will once again be graced with the comedic talent of Steve Harvey. Things take place on December 15, 2007, 6 p.m., at the majestic Orpheum Theatre. What a show that's going to be.

Of course, if I had known about this anytime sooner, I would have been booked my tickets for this show. Especially to hear what song Legend has picked to sing for such an event in gospel's history. Would it be Donny Hathaway's gospel offering "We Need You Right Now" or Curtis Mayfield's "People Get Ready"? Gosh, so many songs to think of...

By the way, we are not encouraging Legend to switch over to gospel. He's doing a terrific job in R&B - and we really wish more people would get on board to give birth to more great music as his. But Legend, singing a gospel song or two or even doing one album in his lifetime for the gospel, would just be "legendary."

Now if those Legend haters would stop with those senseless jokes on YouTube of Legend's grindin' segments on stage...of him being "lifted" in other ways. In the words of Legend: "Save room for my love."

[LEGENDARY STATUS]
BET (Official Website)

John Legend (Official Website)

More Views To Review

Before we at PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com count down to the Best of 2007, we want to announce that you will be seeing dozens of album reviews popping up at the website. There are so many albums that escaped our reach during this year that we failed to get our hands on for review. But all is not lost - we are definitely working on posting reviews up on multiple album releases from this year. Featured in the big list of reviews to come are: Myron Butler & Levi, Lee Williams & Spiritual Q.C.'s, the Mighty Clouds of Joy, Bobby Jones, Shirley Caesar, Isaac Simpson & DP and others.

The reviews will be posted before Anniversary Week starts...
After that, expect the Holiday Issue to pop up - and the rest is self-explanatory.
Expect to see our yearly wrap-up in the 2007 editions of "Simply The Best" and "Esssentially: The Top 12 Gospel Albums of The Year".

Hmmm...I wonder what it would be like to see NBG and PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com join forces for another segment of "The Good, The Bad, The Ugly"...lol

By the way, we tried to get in touch with Tyscot Records to see if they had any promotional copies of VaShawn Mitchell's latest release (Promises)...they didn't know who we were and asked for us to email them a data submission of the website. We did just that and still have not received any correspondence from them. Fear not, none can escape the wrath of PRAYZEHYMN. LOL.

By the way, we have reviewed in the past several of Tyscot Records' releases including albums from Bishop Noel Jones, Anointed Pace Sisters, New Life Community Choir ft./ John P. Kee, Lucinda Moore, Bishop Larry Trotter and VaShawn Mitchell's "Believe In Your Dreams." Not sure on how they have no clue as to who we are at PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com.

Details on what's happenin' the week on ANNIVERSARY WEEK can be viewed at the PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com main page.

This Just In: 23rd Stellar Award Nominees

During a live press conference in Nashville, TN, the nominees for the 23rd annual Stellar Awards were announced. The winners will be announced on January 12 during a taped session at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.

Multiple nominees include the Clark Sisters, DeWayne Woods, Maurette Brown-Clark, Tramaine Hawkins, J Moss, the Wilmington Chester Mass Choir, Bishop Noel Jones & the City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir and Fred Hammond.

Only problem: why wasn't Patti LaBelle nominated, but Chante Moore and Kenny Lattimore was...that's another blog for another day. Hmmmmm...

And the list of the nominees are:

Artist of the Year
Fred Hammond; Free To Worship; Verity
J Moss; V2... ; PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba
Smokie Norful; Life Changing ; EMI Gospel
The Clark Sisters; Live - One Last Time; EMI Gospel
Kelly Price; This Is Who I Am; EcclectiSounds Entertainment/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba

Song of the Year (Songwriter; Song; Label)
Karen Clark Sheard ; "Blessed & Highly Favored"; EMI Gospel
Jimmy Hicks; "Born Blessed"; World Wide Music
PJ Morton; "Let Go "; Quiet Water/ Verity/ Zomba
Kurt Carr; "Still Standing"; Light Records/ Tehillah
Percy Bady; "Um Good"; EMI Gospel

Choir of the Year
Darius Brooks Presents, The Reunion Live in Chicago - Side A (featuring former members of the Thompson Community Singers) ; Journey Music Group
Wilmington Chester Mass Choir; It's Not Over; Emtro Gospel
Bishop T.D. Jakes & The Potter's House Mass Choir; Live in Kenya, Grace: The Kenya Experience ; Dexterity Records/ Rhino
Isaiah Thomas and the Elements of Praise; Isaiah Thomas and the Elements of Praise, Live! ; R.O.U. Records
Bishop Noel Jones Presents The City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir; Welcome to the City ; Tyscot Records/Alpha Dog Records

Producer of the Year
Fred Hammond; Free To Worship; Verity
Kurt Carr, Tramaine Hawkins; I Never Lost My Praise - Live;Gospo Centric/ Zomba
David Mann & Tamela Mann; Tamela Mann - The Live Experience; TillyMan Music
Donald Lawrence, The Clark Sisters; Live - One Last Time; EMI Gospel
Kelly Price & H.R. Crump, Kelly Price; This Is Who I Am ; EcclectiSounds Entertainment/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba

Group Duo of the Year
The McClurkin Project; We Praise You; Gospo Centric/ Zomba
The Clark Sisters; Live - One Last Time; EMI Gospel
The Mighty Clouds of Joy; Movin' ; EMI Gospel
The Anointed Pace Sisters; Return; Tyscot Records

New Artist of the Year
Group 1 Crew; Group 1 Crew; Fervent Records/ Curb Records/ WB
Antwaun Stanley; I Can do Anything ; Bajada Records/ Lightyear
Bishop Noel Jones Presents The City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir; Welcome to the City ; Tyscot Records/Alpha Dog Records
DeWayne Woods; Introducing DeWayne Woods & When Singers Meet; Quiet Water/ Verity/ Zomba
Jimmy Hicks & The Voices of Integrity featuring The Levites; Born Blessed ; Worldwide Music

Male Vocalist of the Year
Fred Hammond; Free To Worship; Verity
DeWayne Woods; Introducing DeWayne Woods & When Singers Meet; Quiet Water/ Verity/ Zomba
J Moss; V2... ; PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba
Troy Sneed; In HIS Presence; Emtro Gospel
William H. Murphy; Live in Atlanta, The Sound...Another William Murphy Project;; Music Group

Female Vocalist of the Year
Vanessa Bell Armstrong; Walking Miracle; EMI Gospel
Tramaine Hawkins;I Never Lost My Praise - Live; Gospo Centric / Zomba
Vickie Winans; Woman To Woman; Verity / Zomba
Tamela Mann; The Live Experience ; TillyMann Music

Contemporary Group/Duo of the Year
Kenny Lattimore & Chante' Moore; Uncovered Covered; LaFace Records/ Verity/ Zomba
PAJAM Presents 21:03; Twenty One O Three; PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ Verity/ Zomba
The McClurkin Project; We Praise You; Gospo Centric/ Zomba
Zie'l; Genesis; Light Records/Gospel Warehouse Records

CD of the Year
J Moss; V2... ; PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba
Tramaine Hawkins;I Never Lost My Praise - Live; Gospo Centric / Zomba
Vickie Winans; Woman To Woman; Verity / Zomba
The Clark Sisters; Live - One Last Time; EMI Gospel
The Caravans; Paved The Way; Malaco

Traditional Group/Duo of the Year
The Anointed Pace Sisters; Return; Tyscot Records
The Clark Sisters; Live - One Last Time; EMI Gospel
The Caravans; Paved The Way; Malaco
The Rance Allen Group; Closest Friend; Tyscot Records
Alvin Darling & Celebration; My Blessing Is On The Way; Emtro Gospel

Contemporary Male of the Year
Deitrick Haddon; 7 Days; Tyscot/ Verity/ Zomba
Dave Hollister; The Book of David: Vol. 1 The Transition; Gospo Centric/ Zomba
Fred Hammond; Free To Worship; Verity
Smokie Norful; Life Changing ; EMI Gospel
Micah Stampley; A Fresh Wind; The Second Sound ; Levitical Records

Traditional Male of the Year
Bishop Paul S. Morton; Still Standing; Light Records/ Tehillah
Rev. Timothy Wright; Jesus, Jesus, Jesus; Koch Records/Jordan Entertainment/ MQM Records
Alvin Darling; My Blessing Is On The Way; Emtro Gospel
Norman Hutchins; Where I Long To Be; JDI Records
Richard Smallwood; Journey: Live In New York; Verity/ Zomba

Contemporary Female of the Year
Coko; Grateful; Light Records
Tamela Mann; The Live Experience ; TillyMann Music
Shirley Murdock; Soulfood ; Tyscot Records
Vickie Winans; Woman To Woman; Verity / Zomba
Maurette Brown Clark; The Dream; AIR Gospel / Malaco

Traditional Female of the Year
Nikki Ross; Vol. 1 Touch: The Pastor Rudy Experience; Music World
Tramaine Hawkins;I Never Lost My Praise - Live; Gospo Centric / Zomba
Lemmie Battles;You're Looking At A Miracle LIVE; New Haven Records
Candi Staton;The Ultimate Gospel Collection; Shanachie Ent. Corp.
Prenestine Williams-Porter;Motor City Praise Records presents World Wide God; Motor City Praise

Contemporary CD of the Year
Shirley Murdock; Soulfood ; Tyscot Records
Sound of the New Breed; Freedom ; Integrity Gospel / Newbreed
Kelly Price; This Is Who I Am ; EcclectiSounds Entertainment/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba
Deitrick Haddon; 7 Days; Tyscot/ Verity/ Zomba
J Moss; V2... ; PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba

Traditional CD of the Year
Tramaine Hawkins;I Never Lost My Praise - Live; Gospo Centric / Zomba
The Anointed Pace Sisters; Return; Tyscot Records
Bishop Paul S. Morton; Still Standing; Light Records/ Tehillah
The Caravans; Paved The Way; Malaco
The Rance Allen Group; Closest Friend; Tyscot Records

Urban/ Inspirational Single / Performance of the Year (Artist; Song; Label)
Kelly Price; "Healing" EcclectiSounds Entertainment/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba
J Moss; "I'm Not Perfect" PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba
Deitrick Haddon; "Heaven " Tyscot/ Verity/ Zomba
Kirk Franklin; "Look At Me Now " Fo Yo Soul/Gospo Centric/Zomba
DeWayne Woods; "Let Go" Quiet Water/ Verity/ Zomba

Traditional Choir of the Year
Darius Brooks Presents, The Reunion Live in Chicago - Side A (featuring former members of the Thompson Community Singers) ; Journey Music Group
Wilmington Chester Mass Choir; It's Not Over; Emtro Gospel
Bishop T.D. Jakes & The Potter's House Mass Choir; Live in Kenya, Grace: The Kenya Experience ; Dexterity Records/ Rhino
Bishop Noel Jones Presents The City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir; Welcome to the City ; Tyscot Records/Alpha Dog Records

Contemporary Choir of the Year
Joshua's Troop LIVE JT3; New Haven Records
Isaiah Thomas and the Elements of Praise; Isaiah Thomas and the Elements of Praise, Live! ; R.O.U. Records
L. Spenser Smith & Testament; Statement: The Assignment Continues...; Emtro Gospel

Instrumental CD of the Year
The Craig Crawford Players; I'll Be With You ; Life Jam Records
Syreeta Thompson; Gabriel's Praise ; Blow Your Horn Girl Publishing
Lionel Jones; Papa Jones; Color Code Purple Productions, Inc.
Ben Tankard; Let's Get Quiet: The Smooth Jazz Experience ; Verity/ Zomba

Special Event CD of the Year
Various Artists; A Christmas To Remember ; EMI Gospel
Kirk Franklin; Kirk Franklin Presents Songs For The Storm Volume 1; Fo Yo Soul/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba
Mary Alessi & Friends; When Women Worship ; Miami Life Sounds Records
Various; Blackberry Records presents Wedding Songs ; Blackberry Records
Yolanda Adams; Yolanda Adams, The Best of Me ; Atlantic / Wea

Rap/Hip Hop Gospel CD of the Year
The Cross Movement; HIStory: Our Place in HIS Story ; Cross Movement Records
Joe L. Da Vessel; Testimony: 1 Lyrics 4 Life ; D.A.A.S. What's Up Entertainment
Pettidee; Resurrections...Past, Present, and Future... ; Sony/ BMG/ Soldier Sound Records
PAJAM Presents 21:03; Twenty One O Three; PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ Verity/ Zomba
Various; BG Records Presents Gospel Skate Jams Vol. 2; BG Records

Children's Performance of the Year
Eva Sabiniano; Born To Praise; Pacific Studios
Kaira Miller; My Everything ; Vine Life Productions
The First Coast Children's Choir; Let The Children Sing! Volume IV Give an Applause!; Spirit of Life Records
Jada Simone Clark; Maurette Brown Clark's The Dream; AIR Gospel / Malaco Records

Quartet of the Year
7 Sons of Soul; Witness; Verity/ Zomba/ Soul World
The Mighty Clouds of Joy; Movin' ; EMI Gospel
The Rance Allen Group; Closest Friend; Tyscot Records
Slim & The Supreme Angels; The Judgement; Malaco Records
Pilgrim Jubilee Singers; Jesus Got Me Off; Malaco Records

Music Video of the Year (artist, song/CD title, label)
Jimmy Hicks & The Voices of Integrity featuring The Levites Born Blessed; Worldwide Music
J.Moss: "Operator"; V2... ; PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba
Shirley Murdock: "I Love Me Better Than That"; Soulfood; Tyscot Records
Vickie Winans: "The Rainbow"; Vickie Winans' Classic Gold Video Collection; Destiny Joy
Antwaun Stanley: "Teach Me"; I Can Do Anything; Bajada Records

Recorded Music Package of the Year [art credit / album (artist) / label]
Sean M. Kinney (art direction and design); Ronald Cadiz (photography); V2... (J.Moss); PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba
Denise Trotman (art direction and design); Ronald Cadiz (photography); Woman To Woman: Songs of Life (Vickie Winans); Verity/ Zomba
Nicola Goode (photography); Welcome to the City (Bishop Noel Jones Presents The City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir) ; Tyscot Records/ Alpha Dog Records
Anita Boriboon & Michelle Lukianovich (art direction and design); Kwaku Alston (photography); This Is Who I Am (Kelly Price); EcclectiSounds Entertainment/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba
Sean M. Kinney (art direction); Ronald Cadiz (photography); Introducing DeWayne Woods & When Singers Meet; Quiet Water/ Verity/ Zomba

Praise and Worship CD of the Year
Marcus Cole; Write My Song; PureSprings/ EMI Gospel/ Riverphlo
Micah Stampley; A Fresh Wind; The Second Sound ; Levitical Records
Troy Sneed; In HIS Presence; Emtro Gospel
Stephen Hurd; My Destiny; Integrity
Maurette Brown Clark; The Dream; AIR Gospel / Malaco

[STELLAR-VISION]
Nominees announced for the 23rd annual Stellar Awards (Tennessean.com)
Stellar Awards (Offical Website)

The Stellar Awards on GospelFlava.com

Obama's Church Draft

It's time to rack up black voters in the South.

To do that, you got to have a passion for good music, soul food and know how to shout Hallelujah. In the mostly conservative state of South Carolina, presidential hopeful and Democratic candidate Barack Obama is hoping to grasp the attention of black voters, conservatives and to raise monies for his campaign. This is really needed for Obama's campaign since fellow Democratic champion Hillary Clinton, according to polls, possesses a substantial lead over Obama in the early voting state. With hopes of gaining voters, his Outreach team has organized a 3-city gospel tour called "Embrace The Change" for the state featuring big name gospel artists including Fred Hammond, Mary Mary, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Beverly Crawford, Deitrick Haddon, Hezekiah Walker, the Mighty Clouds of Joy and Donnie McClurkin.

The tour sounds almost too good to be true - especially since it seems like manna from heaven will be falling on South Carolina. But Obama might have crossed the wrong line with gay/lesbian supporters. The buzz, all over the Internet, media resources and in the news publications, have mentioned that a gay rights group has asked Obama to drop Donnie McClurkin from the gospel tour who it says spreads false information about homosexuality being a choice and claim that the popular gospel singer preaches messages of homophobia.

"I don't believe that it is the intention of God," McClurkin said Monday in a telephone interview. "Sexuality, everything is a matter of choice."

In a statement, Obama said he believes gays and lesbians are "our brothers and sisters" and should be afforded the same respect, dignity and rights granted all other citizens.

"I have consistently spoken directly to African-American religious leaders about the need to overcome the homophobia that persists in some parts our community so that we can confront issues like HIV/AIDS and broaden the reach of equal rights in this country," Obama said. "I strongly believe that African Americans and the LGBT community must stand together in the fight for equal rights. And so I strongly disagree with Reverend McClurkin's views and will continue to fight for these rights as president of the United States to ensure that America is a country that spreads tolerance instead of division."

The statement did not say whether McClurkin will still perform on the tour.

After the heat has been raised on Obama's next move regarding McClurkin's involvement in his campaign, two questions may be raised: "Will he fall down?" and "Can he get back up again?"

The following information includes the announced tour dates and locations:

October 26, 2007
Gospel performances by:
Mary Mary, Fred Hammond, Hezekiah Walker, Beverly Crawford
GENERAL ADMISSION $10
DOORS OPEN at 7:00PM
North Charleston Performing Arts Center
5001 Coliseum Drive North Charleston, SC 29418
http://www.sc.barackobama.com/embrace26

October 27, 2007
Gospel performances by:
Byron Cage, Mighty Clouds of Joy, Vanessa Bell Armstrong
GENERAL ADMISSION $10
DOORS OPEN at 7:00PM
Greenwood Civic Center
1620 Hwy 72 221 E. Greenwood, SC 29649
http://www.sc.barackobama.com/embrace27

October 28, 2007
Gospel performances by:
Mary Mary, Donnie McClurkin, Deitrick Haddon, Mighty Clouds of Joy
GENERAL ADMISSION $10
DOORS OPEN at 5:00PM
The Township Auditorium
1703 Taylor Street Columbia, SC 29202
http://www.sc.barackobama.com/embrace28

[OBAMA RAMMA]
Group to Obama: Drop McClurkin From Tour (AP)
Obama Criticized Over Singer (New York Times)
Barack Obama (Official Website)
Barack Obama (Official MySpace Page)
Donnie McClurkin (Official Website)
Truth Wins Out (Official Website)

Birmingham, In My Own Words

I love my city.

Some might think I don’t. Funny I mention that - since I sometimes feel like I overlook the peeps here (but for really good reasons) and have recently made decisions on PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com to become a more broader, global-outreach community and not to single out the viewing audience from other locations in the world. Most will remember I had a section on the site months ago that focused only on events in my hometown - but decided to incorporate any events of serious magnitude within the national events. But I really have grown to love my community, my birthplace, my home. I always had a heart for it, but I’ve seen it flourish and grow over the last couple of years (even when many skeptics said the “Magic” in the City did an “abracadabra”). And it’s a growth I have accepted and have embraced with great respect and dignity.

Now, for those that don’t believe me and really want to make this blog a laughing matter - let me prove my point in this paragraph. There’s more to Birmingham than historic dates within the Civil Rights holiday calendar. We have a flourishing entertainment community that has grown in leaps and bounds - and the nightlife on the town is something to see. We are proud of businesses and social outlets like WorkPlay and Bottletree - pushing excellence into the mainstream with a down-home, local approach. We have new commercial business and corporations seeking to make Birmingham home and we have kept a large number of our industry neighbors within the city limits. New expansions of the Summit have kept our attention and the gorgeous, new look of Eastwood Village - scheduled to open on October 22 - is an event we all are anticipating to partake of. Old buildings that many condemned for its demise like the City Federal and the old Cabana Hotel have been resurrected with mighty power as extravagant lofts and renovated condominiums. The Birmingham News - the state’s largest newspaper - has a gorgeous building to shout about. Then there’s the new FBI Field Office building - a neat addition to the city’s landscape - and the $100 million, eight-story, state-of-the-art, environment-friendly Social Security Administration building (that is almost completed). The Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center, on the University of Alabama Birmingham campus, is also a flagship center of attention for the arts and continues to feed the community with its large, universal popularity. And then add to the mix a culture that is flooded with greatness and attitude including the progressive Southside (Five Points South) area and the renaissance in the Five Points West area. And with the large expansion of the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex (BJCC) - set to include a up-scale entertainment district and lucrative dining - and the welcoming of both the five-star Renaissance Hotel into the downtown area and another quality hotel to be placed on the Southside, the people of Birmingham should have a lot to be grateful for.

But are we fellow Birminghamians really grateful?

Others around us are suffering and when they said that misery loves company, that it does. That misery has crept into Birmingham politics and has turned the city’s mayoral race into a circus full of division. And that’s because the heart of our local political body has now bubbled into a amalgamation of mutated, self-absorbed soothsayers. Just say the magic words and act like you can preach a lil’ while and you already have an audience aiming to be faithful.

Not that I hate the idea that so many are now trying to take the mayor’s seat...I just despise the idea that so many candidates are only taking the position seriously because they see an opportunity and have failed to make important strides of success to impact their community. I see Birmingham as a promising territory that has grown in large proportions and have once again made a name for ourselves. Most of the credit concerning the great things that have come from the area must be forwarded to the great people that live here. They have made it all possible...but let’s also recognize that we have a great leader and visionary in position and now that the city’s councilors have cooperated with him, we have seen a great deal of progress with our very eyes. I would hate if we decided to make one wrong move to loose everything we’ve gained.

The future of Birmingham looms and falls on one day - October 9, 2007. We will see who will take this great city forward in hopes to make it brighter and better. All I know is Mayor Bernard Kincaid has done an incredible job during his tenure as mayor. All of the accomplishments mentioned, without a lick of scandal or increases of taxes, were all possible because of the Mayor’s leadership and wisdom. I would seriously hope that the people of my hometown won’t let me down. We’ve come too far to turn around now. One bad move and we just might have to say “abracadabra” once and for all.

[LINKS TO THE MAGIC]
Kincaidformayor.com
Leer Towers
WorkPlay
BottleTree Cafe
The Summit Birmingham
Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Center
Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center
Green touch for skyline (Birmingham News)

Chaka Gets Funky Again

You have to give it to her. She has one of the most recognizable and entertaining voices of all time - and she has done it all. From jazz to funk, from soul to R&B, from pop to disco...and even gospel (catch her singing on Richard Smallwood with Vision Journey: Live In New York singing "Precious Is Your Name").

But The Voice is back with her newest CD - FUNK THIS - and she's back to getting down with the funk. Her career took off many years ago as the lead vocalist of the successful '70s-80's funk outfit Rufus and laid down killer grooves and hits that included "Do You Love What You Feel", "Sweet Thing", "Tell Me Something Good" and "At Midnight (My Love Will Lift You Up)." On FUNK THIS, Khan goes down memory-lane to pull out that Rufus vibe and uses the tag-team production efforts of Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis to recreate that same energy and style that made Chaka Khan a household name. On new cuts such as "Hail To The Wrong" and "One For All Time", you can hear the recreation of the sweet grooves found on her earlier solo projects, while the Jimi Hendrix remake of "Castles Made Of Sand" (featuring Jesse Johnson on guitar) exposes her to a gutsy rock funk that sits well on her big vocals. Prince's "Sign 'O' The Times" is an end-time message that places Khan in the prophetic, while "Angel" - the album's strongest ballad and hit single - proves to be a definite moment for Khan's songwriting abilities. When the end of the song resonates, you can hear the song's story blooming of the great possibilities for a better woman to arise from deep within as she declares "you will be free." It's a careful blend of R&B with gospel. R&B diva Mary J. Blige guests on the innovative "Disrespectful"; a song that feels like a '70s funk groove that rides on a tang-tang drum workout. At times, you can't tell who's who. Michael McDonald also jumps into the ring with Khan on the Doobie Brothers/Carly Simon remake; "You Belong To Me". "Will You Love Me" and "One For All Time" are true Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis moments - and feel just right on the music legend.

Plus there's a very special collaboration with Rufus guitarist Tony Maiden on the exclusive Ol' Skool medley featuring Rufus hits "You Got The Love" and "Pack'd My Bags." You can't go wrong here.

There's plenty of funk to go around here and it's beautiful to see that funk music is being re-instituted back into mainstream music. Chaka almost reinvents herself on her new release; proving that she's still the voice that the world instantly recognizes and has forever been associated with the funk.

This week, Billboard Magazine revealed that her single "Angel" is riding at #41 on the R&B/Hip-Hop Singles charts. Her album should do wonders next week on Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop. She will, of course, be facing a mean selection of best-sellers including Ann Nesby's newest project This Love and Kanye West and Fiddy's projects - which both hit the #1 and #2 spots consecutively last week.

Below are just a few of the photos from the new album's inside jacket.

[STATE OF CHAKA]
Chaka Khan (Official Website)
Chaka Khan (MySpace.com)
Burgundy Records
Chaka Perfoms "Angel" on the Today Show (NBC)

"Precious Is Your Name" at the Music Center (PRAYZEHYMNOnline.com)

Paula White Speaks, D. James Kennedy Passes

On a recent Praise the Lord program on TBN, co-pastor Paula White sat on the other side of the table to be interviewed by contemporary Christian recording artist Carman. She opened up about the hurt of her recent announcement to divorce her husband of eighteen years, Pastor Randy White. Both Randy and Paula White founded the Without Walls International Church together in Tampa, Florida - which became one of the fastest growing churches in the country. In recent years, Paula experienced a breakthrough of popularity; launching her own ministry and become a best-selling author, talk show host and motivational speaker.

"I say this for Randy ... my former husband," Paula expressed on TBN. "And Randy is a man of God. No one sets their life out and says, 'Boy, this is what I think I'm going to go through.' And people look at things as failure, why didn't this work. But I see 18 years of the rock that I was healed from and I'm grateful for the seasons in my life because I wouldn't be who I am without all the people that God has used to help me, to develop me, to cultivate me."

"Some of the greatest development in the men and women of God ... were those in adverse situation, those in opposition," White added. "But it pulled out because you had that decision. You can either gravitate and put your hand to the plow and say, 'Okay, God, I don't get this one; I don't even like this one. But still what do You have to say to me? I will not be moved.'"

According to an announcement made at the Without Walls church, Randy White took "100 percent responsibility" of the split and will continue as the senior pastor of the Florida church. While White plans to release a brand new book in October revealing journal excerpts from her personal life, there is no word on Paula White's future involvement with the church.

The media failed to really focus and cover one of the big saddened events of the week - the passing of conservative preacher and popular televangelist D. James Kennedy. The longtime pastor of the 10,000-member Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church (also located in Florida), Kennedy passed away in his home at the age of 76 on September 5. He had not made a public appearance since suffering from cardiac arrest in December, followed by reported multiple complications. Kennedy's retirement to the ministry was announced seven days prior to his passing. Kennedy was also a popular minister in the roster of TBN's great index of preachers. While his passion for American pride and politics remained a prominent part of his sermons, his respectful and loving nature remained one of his drawing points and placed him in a very small category of well-loved and respected conservative preachers.

[FLORIDA TRIBULATIONS]
Paula White Ministries

Without Walls International Church
Paula White: I'm Not Going To Draw Back (ChristianPost.com)
Thousands to Pay Final Respects to Kennedy (ChristianPost.com)
Obituary: D. James Kennedy (Post-Gazette Now)
Dr. James Kennedy Online Memorial
Thousands Celebrate the Life of D. James Kennedy (ChristianPost.com)
L.A. Pastor Rebukes White, Weeks and Bynum (EURweb.com)

Weeks: How To Have Grown Up Marriage

Incredible YouTube video snippet from the accused Bishop Thomas Weeks preaching on love and marriage during the 2006 Teach Me How To Love Conference in Atlanta, GA. We wonder how long the Bishop is going to keep this profound word up.

The "Week-est" Link

Big-time teleevangelist, occasional host of TBN's highly-rated "Praise The Lord" and successful gospel artist Juanita Bynum-Weeks is in the news once again. This time, it's bloody.

According to FOXNews.com and the Associated Press, Bynum and her estranged husband , Bishop Thomas W. Weeks, III, met at Renaissance Concourse Hotel near Atlanta's airport to try to reconcile, police said. Then around 4 a.m., things got a little shaky as a fight broke out between the two. A bellman employed by the hotel had to break the two up.

Officer Ronald Campbell stated that "she was bruised up and battered...and had purple bruising around her neck and upper torso."

No charges were filed against Bishop Weeks, who also happened to flee the scene of the crime...I meant incident. Authorities are still searching for Weeks.

News like this makes you want to go back and get a refund on that big fancy wedding we all bought for $20 after watching the 2-hour special on TV. Save the "No More Sheets" jokes.

[WEEK-EST LINKS]

Bynum Assaulted By Husband (FOXNews.com)
Rev. Juanita Bynum 'Savagely' Beaten By Bishop Thomas Weeks (EURweb.com)
Husband attacks evangelist Bynum in parking lot (AJC.com)
Dr. Bynum Preaching "Women Are Giving Sex But No Romance" (Youtube.com)
"God Is Faithful" at Bynum-Weeks Wedding (Youtube.com)
Bishop Weeks (Official Website)
Juanita Bynum (Official Website)