RHYTHMANDPRAISE | The Best Of Black Gospel Music, Videos, & News

Gospel Charts: Y'Anna Crawley's "The Promise" Debuts At #2

2010-09-02T13:40:00.000-07:00

Y'anna Crawley is making some serious noise this week with her new debut album entitled The Promise...Released last Tuesday, the Sunday Best winner's long-awaited solo project debuted at #2 on this week's Billboard Gospel Albums Chart.

I was personally surprised that it charted so high, since it didn't seem there was much promotion done, but I guess Ms. Crawley has a larger following than I thought...Despite that, I have to say that I actually like The Promise, it has a good mix of old and new stylings, plus all of the songs do a great job of showcasing her beautiful voice...Definitely worth a listen! Do you have it? Tell us what you think in the comments!

Here's the complete list of Top 10 Gospel Albums on the Billboard Chart:

1.) Marvin Sapp-Here I Am
2.) Y'Anna Crawley-Promise
3.) Various-WOW Gospel 2010
4.) Tamela Mann-The Master Plan
5.) Brian Courtney Wilson-Just Love
6.) VaShawn Mitchell-Triumphant
7.) Various-Fred Hammond Family Entertainment Presents: Life In The Word
8.) BeBe & CeCe Winans-Still
9.) Hezekiah Walker & LFC-Souled Out
10.) Forever Jones-Get Ready

Rise N' Shine: Lisa Page Brooks - I Want to Say Thank You

2010-09-01T05:10:00.000-07:00

Gotta give a shoutout to Lisa Page Brooks for reaching #1 on the upcoming Billboard Gospel Songs chart (out tomorrow), with her song I Want To Say Thank You...It replaces Marvin Sapp's The Best In Me, which held the number #1 slot for 25 weeks! (That's over six months!)

According to Lisa Page Brooks' label Habakkuk Music, "I Want To Say Thank You" was recorded several years ago, but was dusted off and reissued for Lisa's 2009 release, Strong...I bet a lot of artists wish they had such a big hit just sitting in their closet...

I have to say that I personally loved this song from the first time I heard it, I mean, with Lisa's distinctive voice, and the beautiful message, what's not to love? Take a listen below...

The Scoop: Israel Houghton Headed For "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno"

2010-09-01T03:31:00.000-07:00

Image by Getty Images via @daylifeIf you needed any more indication of the rarefied air Israel Houghton travels in as a Gospel Artist, look no further than his upcoming appearance on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno." Israel is scheduled to appear a week from now, on Sept 8th, sitting in with Ricky Minor and The Tonight Show Band.

This is not a place usually occupied by Christian musicians, so I can't wait to see what kind of testimony he shares on the show. Plus you know he gonna be jamming with that band...

BTW, unless you have been under the proverbial promontory, then you already know that Houghton's latest album, Love God. Love People landed in stores yesterday. Recorded in London's famed Abbey Road studios, Israel's new package of songs display both his usual attention to detail and originality...Check it out!

Peep This: Jonathan Nelson- "Better Days" To Come!

2010-08-27T23:07:00.000-07:00

Jonathan Nelson is definitely one of the best songwriters out there, having penned hit songs for the likes of Donald Lawrence, Youth For Christ, and Bishop T.D. Jakes...That's why i'm excited about his new album Better Days coming out on Sept 14th...Not to mention, the album features production by Aaron Lindsey, who has put together hit songs for Israel Houghton, Marvin Sapp, and Martha Munizzi just to name a few.

Check out this electronic press kit for Better Days, where Jonathan talks about theme of the album, and how he felt about recording it...I'm also including the clip for his new song "Cry Holy", produced by Aaron Lindsey...Let me know what you think!

In Chi-Town!!

2010-08-23T17:04:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! Just wanted to let you know that I'm on the road in Chi-Town, so my posting frequency might go down a little bit...But never fear, Rhythmandpraise isn't going anywhere, so keep checking back for goodies! Paul C.

Daily Scripture: John 4:23 (NET)

2010-08-20T15:50:00.000-07:00

John 4:23 But a time is coming - and now is here - when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such people to be his worshipers.

The Scoop: Listen To A Complete Preview Of Israel Houghton's "Love God,Love People"

2010-08-20T15:44:00.000-07:00

When it comes to new Gospel Releases, the next two weeks are gonna be big....Sunday Best Season 2 Winner Y'Anna Crawley's new album,"The Promise", is coming out next Tuesday, and from what i've heard so far, it's gonna be good...On that same date, another powerhouse vocalist, Brittney Wright, will be releasing her solo debut, The Beginning , another album I can't wait to hear, since her single "I Win" has to be one of best singles out this summer...

But on the following week, the album everyone's talking about, Israel Houghton's Love God. Love People will be in stores everywhere...and if you want to hear some snippets of all the songs you can visit Integrity Music's new preview page for the project, where you can play short clips of every track on the album. I took a listen earlier, and it sounds like he has another hit on his hands...take a listen here, and let me know what you think in the comments...

Rise N' Shine: Tye Tribbett-"Chasing After You (The Morning Song)"

2010-08-20T07:14:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everybody!! Seeing Tye in the park the other day put me in the mood to hear this song...It's called "Chasing After You (The Morning Song)", and it's from his last album, Stand Out...No moving video today, just listen to the song and check out the lyrics below the player...so nice...Chase after the lord today!!

(props to GospelMusicTV for the lyrics and YouTube clip..)

Lyrics:

Each and every day
I will seek Your face
my soul is crying out for more
I want more of You
Oh, I won't be satisfied
Nor content
if where I am,woah
So I won't aprehend
till I'm captured by what I'm after

And I will go from faith to faith
From glory to glory (x2)
And I'll forever be chasing after You
I'll be chasing after You (x2)

I will press toward the mark
For the prize
And I won't faint
Theres one thing I desire
And that's what I'm going for
I can't continue life
Day by day
growing dry
I need to be with You (Jesus)
I'll seek where you are

And I will go from faith to faith
From glory to glory (x4)

And I'll forever be chasing after You
i'll be chasing after you (x7)

And I will go from faith to faith
from glory to glory (x2)

And I'll forever be chasing after You
I'll be chasing after you

The Scoop: Marvin Sapp Requests Prayer For His Wife Malinda's Illness

2010-08-19T20:50:00.000-07:00

I just got word of this via Facebook, and I had to spread the word...Today the following message was placed on the Official Marvin Sapp Facebook Page, requesting that everyone pray for the healing of his wife Malinda:

Join the family of faith tonight in corporate prayer for Dr. MaLinda P Sapp wife of Dr. Marvin L. Sapp as we believe God for total and complete healing. Call in at 712 432 0075 then the code 653542#. Please pass this along to 10 praying people. Ep 3:20

On marvinsapp.com, the flyer shown above was posted, stating that until recently, a specialist indicated her infirmity was resolved, but now she has been advised it is "now trying to resurface".

In April of 2009, Dr. Malinda Sapp was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer, which is the most advanced stage of the disease, usually meaning that the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes and other parts of the body. This needless to say, is a very serious condition.

However, Marvin and his church family are not surrendering to the illness. Instead, they called for 24 hours of prayer today, and invited those who wished to pray corporately to join a conference call at 6pm this evening. As part of a strong prayer life, we should always pray for those in leadership positions around the world, and this is a great time to exercise that principle. Please pray for this woman of God, (and her husband Marvin as well) as soon as you can...

Daily Scripture: 1 John 1:9 (NET)

2010-08-19T19:30:00.001-07:00

1 John 1:9 But if we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous, forgiving us our sins and cleansing us from all unrighteousness.

In Concert: Tye Tribbett @ Harlem's Jackie Robinson Park 8/18/10

2010-08-19T19:07:00.000-07:00

Well I had a chance to head on over to NYC for another free concert last night, and I must say it was a real treat..Nobody rocks out at a Gospel Concert like Tye Tribbett, and his Jackie Robinson Park gig was no different...His material from Stand Out , like "Let Us Worship", and "Bless The Lord" sounded especially good, and the energy level was all the way turned up! He also did a couple of songs from Victory LIVE!, including "No Other Choice" and "Victory", (which he finished with) basically going non-stop from song to song, not giving the crowd a chance to rest!

What really impressed me was the fact that in the midst of the frenzy, he took the time to give an altar call, inviting those in the crowd to accept Christ as their savior. I think that more artists need to do that, because in the end, it's really all about the souls...

The video of "Bless The Lord" was taken from my iPhone, and the sound didn't come out all that great...But if you want to see some of the other songs captured from a better vantage point, check out the YouTube channel of ladyletizradical, who looks like they were right in front. I'm posting their clip of "Let Us Worship", which is the song he started with, right below mine...

Throwback Thursdays: Reverend Timothy Wright - "Jesus, Jesus, Jesus (Katrina Song)"

2010-08-19T17:51:00.000-07:00

As we approach the five year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, (the storm actually formed five years ago this coming Monday) I thought it would be a great time to both pay tribute to the Late Rev. Timothy Wright, and play the song he dedicated to the victims of that disaster. I love the story he tells about the old church mother that calls on Jesus in the midst of the death and carnage...who are you calling on?

Gospel Charts: VaShawn Mitchell's "Triumphant" Debuts At #2

2010-08-19T16:56:00.000-07:00

VaShawn Mitchell has a big reason to celebrate this week...Buoyed by his best 1st week of sales ever, Mitchell's latest album Triumphant, debuted at #2 on the Billboard Gospel Albums Chart...The CD has been met with critical acclaim, including a positive mini-review here on Rhythmandpraise, and with good reason, because it's a great album, a must-have for any Gospel Music collector...

Here's the rest of the Top 10 releases on the Gospel Albums Chart:

1.) Marvin Sapp-Here I Am
2.) VaShawn Mitchell-Triumphant
3.) Various-WOW Gospel 2010
4.) Various-Fred Hammond Family Entertainment Presents: Life In The Word
5.) Forever Jones-Get Ready
6.) Hezekiah Walker & LFC-Souled Out
7.) Brian Courtney Wilson-Just Love
8.) Fred Hammond-Love Unstoppable
9.) Trip Lee-Between Two Worlds
10.) BeBe & CeCe Winans-Still

Rise N' Shine: Deitrick Haddon - "Judah (Let Me Hear You Praise)"

2010-08-19T06:15:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Folks! Here's a another clip to get you day started off on the right foot...It's Deitrick Haddon during an appearance on TBN earlier this year, singing one of my favorite songs from his new Blessed & Cursed soundtrack...The song is called "Judah (Let Me Hear You Praise)" and I love the energy of this performance!

By the way, has anyone seen the movie Blessed & Cursed (2010)? I want to see it bad! If you have, let me know what you think about it in the comments!

Peep This: Straight Talk - Isaac Carree Interview

2010-08-18T11:36:00.000-07:00

By paying his dues singing with John P. Kee and Kirk Franklin, plus founding the award-winning group Men Of Standard along with Lowell Pye, (who is currently on the charts with his solo album, Finally) Isaac Carree has made quite the name for himself in Gospel Music. Like Pye, he is looking to translate his success as a lead vocalist and group leader into a successful solo career, expanding his brand and ministry further.

Carree has already gained some buzz with his single, "Simply Redeemed", a song also recorded by Brian Courtney Wilson and Heather Headley, but Isaac still manages to make it sound fresh, adding a pacing and earnestness that's all his own.

He recently sat down with Eddie Velez on Streaming Faith's "Straight Talk", and discussed both the successes and difficulties in his life, along with the story behind his upcoming (and highly anticipated) album "Uncommon Me"....Very Interesting...Check it out...

Daily Scripture: Isaiah 40:31 (NET)

2010-08-18T10:19:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 40:31 But those who wait for the LORD's help find renewed strength; they rise up as if they had eagles' wings, they run without growing weary, they walk without getting tired.

On The Road: Free NYC Concert Tonight w/ Tye Tribbett & Wess Morgan

2010-08-18T09:35:00.000-07:00

For all my NY/NJ/CT peoples, GlobeStar Entertainment & the City Parks Foundation are having a free concert tonight featuring Tye Tribbett & Wess Morgan at Jackie Robinson Park in Harlem...The concert starts @ 7PM... I think i'm gonna check this one out myself! For more info click on the link below:

Tye Tribbett @ Jackie Robinson Park 8/18/10

Rise N' Shine: Canton Jones - "G.O.D."

2010-08-18T07:36:00.000-07:00

So last night I dropped a Hot Link on Canton Jones' new project Kingdom Business 3, but this morning I have something from his Kingdom Business pt.2 Featuring The Cajo Family mixtape...the song is called "G.O.D."as in, I call him G.O.D.!!!!

Hot Links: Listen to Music from Y'Anna Crawley's "The Promise", Preview Canton Jones' "Kingdom Business 3", & More!

2010-08-17T17:00:00.000-07:00

BET's Torrence Glenn pulls off another coup by playing a track a day from Sunday Best Y'Anna Crawley's new album, "The Promise" until it comes out next Tuesday...Listen to the first track "I Believe" right now...[Gospel According To Torrence]

Have you ever heard Bishop Secular from The Yolanda Adams Morning Show? Hilarious! Here's a clip of the infamous pastor sharing tips on how to raise an offering...lol! [Praise 103.9]

Check out this preview of Canton Jones' upcoming compilation, "Kingdom Business 3"...The album will feature Holy Hip Hop stars like P-Dub and Richie Righteous, which makes it a good opportunity to start your Christian Rap Collection..[DaSouth]

CNN continues their Black In America series with an episode on the Black Church...The show will be called "Churched", and will air on October 14th...[CNN]

New Music: "Love God. Love People." iPhone Preview

2010-08-17T13:58:00.000-07:00

Speaking of Love God. Love People, if you have an iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad, you can check out a specially formatted website for a preview of Israel's new album...The special preview lets you play four songs, two of which I blogged about on Sunday...

The songs are Love God. Love People, You Hold My World, Yahweh (The Lifter) & Love Rev, a bluesy song that I haven't heard before today...The mini-site also had a video placeholder at the bottom, but it didn't work for me...check it out here.

Peep This: Israel Houghton | Love God. Love People. Teaser

2010-08-17T10:04:00.000-07:00

I don't know if you can tell by all the Israel Houghton posts lately, but I'm really excited about Israel's new album, Love God. Love People, coming out Aug. 31st...Are you? If you are, then here's a little "behind-the-scenes" teaser video I found today to whet your appetite even more...

Daily Scripture: Colossians 3:23 (NET)

2010-08-17T08:38:00.000-07:00

Colossians 3:23 Whatever you are doing, work at it with enthusiasm, as to the Lord and not for people...

Rise N' Shine: BeBe & CeCe Winans--Interview on NBC's "Talk Stoop"

2010-08-17T07:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, during their time in New York City, BeBe and CeCe followed up their Good Morning America interview with another interview on "Talk Stoop with Cat Greenleaf". The show airs on our local NBC affiliate, WNBC, and it's pretty cool. Basically, Cat interviews different celebrities on the stoop of her Brownstone in Brooklyn, and yesterday was the Winans' turn.

During the interview, they talked about how they got started singing together, their message, and the morality of making money off of singing praises to the Lord...Then they finish off the clip by singing "Never Thought", from their latest album Still, acapella right on the street...check it out!

Daily Scripture: 2 Corinthians 9:8 (NET)

2010-08-16T15:42:00.000-07:00

2 Corinthians 9:8 And God is able to make all grace overflow to you so that because you have enough of everything in every way at all times, you will overflow in every good work.

Hot Links: Marvin Sapp Launches New Website, New Music from Jonathan Nelson, & More

2010-08-16T15:31:00.000-07:00

Marvin Sapp via last.fm
Marvin Sapp has a new website, and it's the bomb! Check it out!...[GospelPundit]

Pastor Sapp also sat down with a Houston radio station and answered the fans questions, in-studio, on-the air...[1230WDBZ]

Ever the trailblazer, Israel Houghton gets ready to release the first ever Christian iTunes LP...meaning that if you download his new album from iTunes, you get a virtual CD jacket complete with videos, photos and other bonus materials. [BrothaPercy]

New Music from T.D.Jakes is on the way...[GospelLyfe]

Check out two new tracks from Jonathan Nelson upcoming Better Days album, and a additional one from Ann Nesby ...[Da Gospel Truth]

Bow Wow joins the cast of Tyler Perry's new movie, Madea's BIG Happy Family...[GospelConnoisseur]

Peep This: "BeBe and CeCe Winans Reunite" -- Interview on Good Morning America

2010-08-16T09:58:00.000-07:00

Speaking of BeBe & CeCe...here's an interview from this morning's Good Morning America, where they talk about getting back together after 15 years, and what their late father, "Pops" Winans meant to them...

Update: The GMA website has posted the clips from BeBe and CeCe's performances this morning, just click on the slider in the upper left hand corner to find them...

On The Road: BeBe & CeCe Winans, Fred Hammond Doing Free Concert In Brooklyn Tonight

2010-08-16T08:31:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

Hey, this shoutout is for all my tri-state peoples (NY-NJ-CT)..tonight you have a chance to see two of the biggest acts in Gospel for the super-duper price of Free.99!

I'm talking about the legendary BeBe & CeCe Winans along with the one and only Fred Hammond, for free, tonight, in Brooklyn! The show will be starting at 7:30, over at Wingate Field, which is on Brooklyn Ave, between Rutland and Winthrop, right across from the Kings County Hospital...If you are anywhere near this location, you better get out there! This is gonna be big!

Here's a link to the details...

Rise N' Shine: Kirk Franklin - "Declaration (This Is It!)"

2010-08-16T07:26:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone! This Is It! This the the day the Lord has made, Let us rejoice and be glad in it! Enjoy the music as well...The song is called, "Declaration (This Is It)" from Kirk Frankin's The Fight of My Life...God Bless!

Living Single: Listen To James Fortune's "I Believe" (feat. Zacardi Cortez & Shawn McLemore)

2010-08-15T18:50:00.000-07:00

"I Believe", the latest single from James Fortune, has taken on a life of it's own, quickly jumping into the Top Ten Gospel Songs on the Billboard Chart, mainly because people can't stop requesting it. With voices like Zacardi Cortez and Shawn McLemore on the track, one would think there is no way you could lose, but in the end, it's James' inspirational verses that seal the deal, once again bringing listeners back in from the depths of despair...Get it on the upcoming Kerry Douglas Presents: Gospel Mix IV, in stores Aug. 31st.

New Music From Israel Houghton's "Love God. Love People."

2010-08-15T17:13:00.000-07:00

As we get closer to the Aug 31st release date, more and more of Israel Houghton's Love God. Love People, is being revealed for our listening pleasure...Israel himself tweeted a link to the title track on Friday, asking people to "check it out and let me know how you like it"...Another song, called "Yahweh (The Lifter)", has surfaced on YouTube, along with a link to Israel's website, where you can pre-order the album, and get immediate downloads of both songs mentioned in this post with your purchase.

You can listen to "Yahweh (The Lifter)" by clicking on the video below, and you can hear the song "Love God. Love People." by clicking here. Let me know what you think!

Just Got Paid: VaShawn Mitchell's "Triumphant" & Fred Hammond's "Life In The Word"

2010-08-14T21:13:00.000-07:00

This the second installment of the "Just Got Paid" column, where I point out all the new gospel releases worth spending your freshly minted paycheck on! This week I'm recommending "Triumphant" the latest album from veteran singer, director, songwriter, VaShawn Mitchell, and "Life In The Word" the debut project from Fred Hammond's fHammond Family Entertainment label.

VaShawn Mitchell-Triumphant (EMI Gospel)

Triumphant, VaShawn's first album for his new label EMI Gospel, marks, for lack of a better term, a triumphant arrival to the top of the gospel music genre. Mitchell, with songs like "Dreams" and "Where The Praises Are" has been making good music for a long time, but with his latest project, VaShawn has cranked it up a notch, offering up fiery praise and worship anthems like Chasing After You, along with patented church jams like Nobody Greater and Triumphant. The apex of the album has to be His Blood Still Works, which features an out of this world lead from none other than Lisa Page Brooks..A must have/hear!

Fred Hammond-Fred Hammond Family Entertainment Presents: Life In The Word-(Fred Hammond Family Entertainment)

According to Fred, one of the reasons for starting his own label, was the ability to take chances with his music, without worrying about selling a million records. Well, if he continues to crank out projects like this one, then he might achieve both! Referred to as a "Praise & Worship Devotional" by none other that Mr. Hammond himself, "Life In The Word" leans heavily on the signature Fred Hammond funk his fans are accustomed to, but at the same time infuses jazz and classic R&B influences into something that reminds me of the Praise in the House project he produced for Integrity back in the 90's.

Back then, Fred aimed to expand the Praise and Worship sub-genre, bringing in the black music influence, and one has to say he was successful, since he opened the door for the Integrity Gospel imprint, the label that carried Israel & New Breed to prominence. Now that Hammond has his own label, it looks like he's attempting to continue that mission, and this album is a good start. While the lyrics carry the same message as any other worship CD out there, the sound is quite different, with Life In The Word being one of the funkiest I have ever heard. For example, on Walkin In Victory, Lowell Pye works over the track James Brown style, even including the requisite "Say It Again" when responding to the background vocals.

By the way, Pye is just about the only big name on the album, but Hammond seems to find the right place for all his hand-picked up-and coming talent, especially on the song Home Inside My Praise where Dyanna Wells lifts this worship song to epic heights. Fred also contributes a couple of gems like the smooth Dwelling Place & Just To Be Close To You. The scripture interludes in between the songs also add a special touch. If you're a Fred Hammond fan, or just looking for a Praise and Worship album that's just a little bit different from what's out there, go get Life In The Word!

On The Road: Free Lisa Page Brooks Concert In The DMV

2010-08-13T09:22:00.000-07:00

Here's a little something for my peoples in the DC area...Chick Fil-A is having a Free Gospel Concert tomorrow (Saturday 8/14), featuring Lisa Page Brooks...The show starts at 6PM over at their location in Largo MD...(1040 Shoppers Way)...

Rise N' Shine: Introducing Level 3:16

2010-08-13T08:52:00.000-07:00

As always, Cross Movement Records is pushing the envelope when it comes to anointed Christian music...check out their latest signing from Indiana, Level 3:16 (two male MC's, a female DJ, & three female vocalists), get down acapella style...Dope! Stay tuned for this one....

Daily Scripture: Mark 11:25 (NET)

2010-08-12T20:39:00.001-07:00

Mark 11:25 Whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven will also forgive you your sins."

Peep This: Half Mile Home- "Change My Lyfe"

2010-08-12T10:48:00.000-07:00

Here's the latest video from Ohio Hip-Hop/Gospel Quintet, Half Mile Home....the song is called "Change My Lyfe" from their album of the same name...

By the way, be on the lookout for this video as it debuts on BET's Video Gospel this Sunday, August 15th...(check your local listings for the exact time)

Gospel Charts: Forever Jones Back In The Top 5 With "Get Ready"

2010-08-12T09:46:00.000-07:00

Image via WikipediaThis week, there weren't any huge changes on the Billboard Gospel Album Chart, but perhaps the biggest story this week is the return of Forever Jones to the Top 5 (currently #4), after cruising in the lower half of the top ten for the last three weeks...Their debut album, Get Ready, was last in the Top 5 during the week of 7/24, charting at #5.

The album continues to sell well based on the strength of their single, "He Wants It All",which has consistently charted in the the top 5 songs on the Billboard Gospel Songs Chart, currently charting at #3...Forever Jones recently thanked their fans for the success of the single by starting a "He Wants It All" video contest. The winner of the contest will win one of Apple's coveted iPad's customized with Forever Jones music and videos...Check out the video below for details...

Here's the complete Top 10 releases on the Billboard Gospel Chart:

1. Marvin Sapp-Here I Am
2. Fred Hammond-Fred Hammond Family Entertainment Presents: Life In The Word
3. Various-WOW Gospel 2010
4. Forever Jones-Get Ready
5. Hezekiah Walker & LFC-Souled Out ($5 at AmazonMP3!)6. James Hall & Voices Of Citadel-Won't It Be Wonderful
7. Trip Lee-Between Two Worlds
8. BeBe & CeCe Winans-Still
9. Fred Hammond-Love Unstoppable
10. CeCe Winans-Songs of Emotional Healing

Rise N' Shine: Mary Mary - "Get Up"

2010-08-12T06:48:00.000-07:00

Good Morning! I think this track is the perfect "Wake Me Up" song...Produced by Erica's husband Warryn Campbell, "Get Up" was the lead single for their current album, The Sound, and it won them a Grammy for "Best Gospel Performance" in 2009...

Hot Links: Ty Tribbett Drops His New Single "Fresh", Gospel Rapper Flame Talks About His New Label & Album

2010-08-11T20:49:00.000-07:00

Tye Tribbett sets off his solo career with a new single called "FRESH"...is Auto-Tune here to stay in Gospel? [Gospel Connoisseur]

Gospel rapper Flame sat down with Rapzilla to talk about his break with Cross Movement Records, and the start of his own label named ClearSight Music...[Rapzilla]

Daily Scripture: 2 Cor. 4:18 (NET)

2010-08-11T20:14:00.000-07:00

2 Corinthians 4:18 because we are not looking at what can be seen but at what cannot be seen. For what can be seen is temporary, but what cannot be seen is eternal.

The Scoop: Fred Hammond Talks To Essence About His New Label, His New Album, & His Career

2010-08-11T20:07:00.000-07:00

Fred Hammond is a busy (and successful) man these days. He has just started his own Label, has a new album in stores, and performs all over the world. By the way, that new album, called Fred Hammond Family Entertainment Presents: Life In The Word, is just one of two projects he has in the Top 10 of the Gospel Album Chart. So what makes this Man of God tick? What drives his success? He recently talked to Essence.com about his career and new venture...Here's some of what he had to say:

On starting his own label: "Over time, owning a label became obtainable; presently it's easier to own your own label. The only question at this point is, who's going to have a successful label? I put my name on the label, so you will understand the music will be quality and trust you're receiving quality, because my name is attached"

On building a lasting career in Gospel Music: "Many artists are deceived. They believe they will attain greatness, wealth, and accolades because someone likes how they sing. It takes struggle to attain greatness. Within the realm of gospel music you have to want to serve GOD and do the job, even if no one knows your name. Gospel music is about GOD first and not art first."

On the significance of his new project, "Life In The Word": "It's a praise and worship devotional, which means we have scriptural interludes and spoken-word segments. Also this project is different because when the CD is purchased, it contains a DVD that features six songs displayed in a concert series format."

Fred talks about much more in the article, including what he does for fun, and how God can help those struggling to find their purpose in life...read the rest of the article here.

Rise N' Shine: Byron Cage - "Goodbye"

2010-08-11T07:36:00.000-07:00

Now "Goodbye" is definitely not the best Byron Cage song I have ever heard, but I'm digging the message, plus I get a kick out of the Gospel 007 thing Byron has going on in the video...lol...What do you think of the song and the video? From his latest album, Faithful to Believe...

Hot Links: Forever Jones Giving Away An iPad, BET Lands Exclusive VaShawn Mitchell Video, Darwin Hobbs Going Back On The Road, & More

2010-08-10T20:18:00.000-07:00

Image via CrunchBase

Forever Jones thanks their fans with an iPad Giveaway... [1-800-Gospel]

Darwin Hobbs is feeling better after a week's hospital stay, looks to get back on the road this weekend! Wow, that was fast...[TBGB]

BET's Torrance G lands the world premiere of VaShawn Mitchell's new video, "His Blood Still Works" feat. Lisa Page Brooks, and she is sanging! A MUST SEE! [Gospel According To Torrance]

Rawservnt (of Omarosa's "Ultimate Merger" fame) has a new video with Lisa McClendon getting her Sade on, and it's dope! [Rapzilla]

Gospel Pundit's Troy Lilly sits down with CeCe Winans and talks about her career, the late Bishop Walter Hawkins, and the secret to how she always looks so good! [GospelPundit]

Canton Jones is putting out the third installment of his "Kingdom Business" album series, and it will be called, you guessed it, "Kingdom Business 3"!...Look for it Aug 31st...[GospelFlava]

Daily Scripture: Psalms 37:21 (NET)

2010-08-10T16:59:00.000-07:00

Psalms 37:21 Evil men borrow, but do not repay their debt, but the godly show compassion and are generous.

In Stores Today: 8/10/10 VaShawn Mitchell, K-Drama, Sean Slaughter

2010-08-10T10:12:00.000-07:00

VaShawn Mitchell-Triumphant (EMI Gospel)

K-Drama-We Fit: The Workout Plan (Cross Movement)

Sean Slaughter-The Prototype (Slaughter Music)

Rise N' Shine: James Fortune "I Trust You" Live @ Praise 102.5's Praise In The Park

2010-08-10T05:01:00.000-07:00

At the same time The Clark Sisters were playing New York on Saturday, there was a huge Gospel concert called Praise In The Park going down in the ATL...Several artists went on, including J.Moss, Brian Courtney Wilson, Bryon Cage, Maurette Brown Clark and the list goes on...Here's James Fortune singing my personal testimony song (it sure seems like it), I Trust You live at Praise In The Park...

For more footage from the concert, visit gwoodsradiotv's YouTube Channel

Living Single: Israel Houghton "You Hold My World"

2010-08-10T04:30:00.000-07:00

Israel Houghton-You Hold My World

When it comes to beautiful worship anthems that immediately cause your arms to go up, Israel Houghton has become the "go-to" guy...My church sings at least one of his songs every Sunday, and they spark a spontaneous combustion of worship every time!

Listen to Israel sing "You Won't Let Go Of Me!" towards the end of this song, and just try not to go in! I dare you! lol! From the upcoming album, Love God. Love People, in stores Aug 31st...

"You Hold My World" by Israel Houghton

Deals: Amazon's $5 Gospel Music Sale

2010-08-10T03:14:00.000-07:00

If you've been slacking off on your gospel purchases, due to the recession, or what have you, here's you're chance to get back up to date! Right now, Amazon is selling the MP3 versions of several top Gospel releases (most of them on the Gospel chart) for only $5! I mean, a lot of people spend that on a latte at Starbucks!

A bunch of my favorites are on the list, like Encore by James Fortune & FIYA, Just James by J.Moss, & Souled Out by Hezekiah Walker & LFC...Gospel Pundit has a full list of the titles on sale, check them out here.

In Concert: The Clark Sisters @ Central Park SummerStage 8/7/10

2010-08-10T02:40:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, I had a chance to run across the bridge to New York City and catch The Clark Sisters doing a free concert in Manhattan's one and only Central Park. Before they came on, Juanita Bynum did a set, but I missed her performance.

Wasn't all that disappointed though, because she wasn't the one I came to see...

I was there to see one of the royal families of Gospel in action, and that I did. I arrived at the park right before Kierra Sheard came on, and claimed a pretty good spot on the left side of the stage.

Kierra jumped on the crowd right away with the hit uptempo jam "You", from her 2006 album, This Is Me, then followed that up with a cover of Mary Mary's "God In Me", a song that she guests on, followed by "You Don't Know" from her album, I Owe You. From there, she moved into Praise and Worship mode, singing "Praise Him Now" from her current album, Bold Right Life, along with a medley of worship anthems including Israel Houghton's "To Worship You I Live", and "There Is None Like You."

Once Kierra finished leading worship service, it was time for the group that everyone was waiting for. That group was made up of none other than Karen, Kierra's mother, along with her siblings Jacky, Twinkie & Dorinda, better known as The Clark Sisters. After a brief break, Twinkie slipped behind the keyboard, and joined the rest of the band, which happened to be lead by Karen's son J. Drew. At that point I knew the wait was over.

Unfortunately, the show did have it's moments of technical difficulty. Everyone quickly realized during The Clark Sister's opening song, "Livin'", that Karen's mic wasn't working, and you know that just wouldn't do. But after about ten minutes of Dorinda gently getting after the soundman, and mic testing, they were able to jump back into the song, and the crowd went wild!

The sun was beating down like nobody's business, and the humidity was oppressive, but that didn't take the energy out of the crowd or the Clark's, who moved from the first song into another recent hit, "Blessed and Highly Favored" from their 2007 album, Live: One Last Time.

From there, Dorinda and Karen proceeded to turn the park into an old time revival meeting, with Dorinda whipping the congregation into a frenzy via a mini-sermon on expecting a miracle, and Karen leading a full-fledged praise break, complete with a run all around the stage.

Now, you should already know what came next. Yup, that's right, a beautiful rendition of "Expect A Miracle" complete with a hot solo from Twinkie, who let out some riffs to make sure everyone knew she meant business! Then they sang "Living In Vain", and it was Karen's turn to show off, doing one of her patented "Echo" riffs, basically shutting the place down!!

The Clark's wrapped up the show with "You Brought The Sunshine", and Twinkie got the audience involved, breaking us into "parts", and everyone got a chance to sing "You Made My Day!", starting with the sopranos (who sounded pretty darn good), and ending with the fellas, who sang the low part. It was a fitting end to a great show, and everyone walked out of the park buzzing about a day they wouldn't soon forget.

Here's some video I caught with my iPhone: (sorry about the Quality, I tried not to bounce too much!LOL!)

Rise N' Shine: Kevin LeVar - "A Heart That Forgives"

2010-08-09T06:55:00.000-07:00

Good Morning! I need to put this powerful song in your heart today! The song is called "A Heart That Forgives", and it's about striving to have a heart like the God who has forgiven all of our sins...a heart that forgives!

The song is written and performed by Kevin LeVar, who currently has a new project out entitled Let's Come Together, along with several tracks on Cory "CoCoBrother" Condrey's compilation, Coco Brother Live Presents: Stand 2010...This brother is doing some big things...so be sure to visit his website and listen to the rest of his music...http://www.kevinlevar.com

Peep This: 21:03 - "INCREDIBLE" (LIVE @ Jesus Rocks Tour)

2010-08-06T12:14:00.000-07:00

Check out this Live footage of PAJAM's 21:03 singing their new single, "Incredible"..from the upcoming album "Evolved"..

Just Got Paid: Lowell Pye "Finally" & Tasha Cobbs "Smile"

2010-08-06T11:39:00.000-07:00

Just got paid? Wondering what Gospel CD or Download to spend your hard earned money on? Here's some "can't-miss" albums to add to your collection:

Lowell Pye-Finally (Miralex) As a former lead singer for John P. Kee, and co-founder of the award winning Quartet Men Of Standard, Lowell Pye has experienced a lot of success as a Gospel Artist...And with "Finally" his first solo release, it looks like he'll be experiencing a lot more.

The album effortlessly strikes a balance between Traditional and Contemporary, with Pye's powerful voice driving home the message. Guest appearances by Pastor Marvin Winans, Rance Allen, Sheri Jones-Moffett, & Deitrick Haddon are icing on the cake...Hot Tracks: "Running Back To You", "Better", "Praise In The House", "I'm Ready", "Over", "Speak"

Tasha Cobbs-Smile (Tasha Cobbs Music) As a protege of the great worship leader Pastor William Murphy, (she actually calls him "Daddy"), Tasha Cobbs draws from the hard-charging worship DNA of her mentor, producing one of the best albums I have heard this year. Strong vocals combine with stellar production, and even better songwriting, to create a masterpiece.

From the very beginning, Tasha steps on the gas with Praise choruses like "I Trust You Lord!" on the intro song "I Trust You" then soothes the spirit with Worship choruses like "I Present My Heart to You!" on the title track "Smile" and "Draw Me Close Enough to Touch You!" on "Heart of Worship"...The duet on with William Murphy on "All Day" (which happens to be the title track from his own debut..) is a can't miss! I love this album! Bless yourself and someone else with a copy today! Hot Tracks: "I Trust You", "Smile", "All Day (w/ William Murphy)", "Heart Of Worship", the whole thing... ;-)

Listen Up!: New Music From James Murphy -"Unapologetically Me"

2010-08-05T18:09:00.000-07:00

If you're a hardcore Gospel fan, then chances are you already know about James Murphy...This brother has worked with a multitude of artists throughout the industry, and now he is bringing his smooth R&B Gospel sound to the world via his upcoming solo project, "So Crazy,No Boundaries"... He dropped his latest single, "Unapologetically Me" yesterday via Twitter, and I must say i'm digging it...

You can click on the link below to listen and even download it if you wish...Let me know what you think!

zSHARE - Unapologetically Me _mp3_.mp3

For more info on James Murphy, check out his website: http://www.myspace.com/officiallyjamesmurphy

Daily Scripture: Ephesians 2:8 (NET)

2010-08-05T16:44:00.001-07:00

Ephesians 2:8 For by grace you are saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God;

Gospel Charts: Fred Hammond's "Life In The Word" Debuts At #2, Lowell Pye At #10

2010-08-05T04:59:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

Fred Hammond Family Entertainment, Fred's new joint venture with Universal Music, is having a big week, as their first album on the imprint, Life in the Word debuts at #2 on the Billboard Gospel Albums Chart...This is his second album in the Top 10 of the chart, since his other album, Love Unstoppable is currently at #6, moving down one slot from last week. Congratulations to Fred Hammond, an all the great artist on the Life In The Word project....

Speaking of the Top 10, Lowell Pye (co-founder of Men Of Standard) debuts at #10 with his new solo project, Finally. This CD is currently in heavy rotation on my iPod, and is rated at "Must-Buy" status in my book...Make sure you take a listen to it...

Here's this week's complete Top 10 Gospel Releases:

1. Marvin Sapp-Here I Am
2. Fred Hammond-Fred Hammond Family Entertainment Presents: Life In The Word
3. Various-WOW Gospel 2010
4. Hezekiah Walker-Souled Out
5. Trip Lee-Between Two Worlds
6. Fred Hammond-Love Unstoppable
7. Brian Courtney Wilson-Just Love
8. Forever Jones-Get Ready
9 BeBe & CeCe Winans-Still
10. Lowell Pye-Finally

Rise N' Shine: Brian Courtney Wilson "Already Here"

2010-08-05T04:27:00.000-07:00

Here's something to get your day started...the song is called "Already Here" and it's from Brian Courtney Wilson's album, Just Love...If you haven't checked this album out yet, please do...The more I listen to it, the more I love it...

Daily Scripture: James 1:5 (NET)

2010-08-04T15:02:00.001-07:00

James 1:5 But if anyone is deficient in wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without reprimand, and it will be given to him.

Listen Up! New Music from Zie'l: "Purify Me" @ GMWA 2010

2010-08-04T09:51:00.000-07:00

Zie'l bust on the scene about four years ago with a blazin' cover of The Clark Sister's "Is My Livin' In Vain?", and everyone knew right then and there that these young ladies from Louisiana could SANG! Now they have a new single called "Purify Me", which they sang at last month's GMWA convention, and they are still sounding great!

Take a listen and let me know what you think!

As a bonus, here's a clip of them singing "Is My Living In Vain"...All I can say is...Wow!

For more info on Zie'l, check out their website at http://www.officialziel.com

Peep This: Chris Clark - "5High" (Official Video)

2010-08-04T08:54:00.000-07:00

Here's a new video from Chris Clark, PAJAM's new Holy Hip Hop artist...Most of you probably heard him on 21:03's "Favor" (All I Do Is Win) remix...but now he's got his own video, and the song is called "5High"...see if you can figure out what the brother's rapping about! Let me know what you think!

For more info, check out his site, http://www.chrisclarkworld.com

Daily Scripture: Numbers 13:30 (NET)

2010-08-03T20:03:00.001-07:00

Numbers 13:30 Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses, saying, "Let us go up and occupy it, for we are well able to conquer it."

In Stores Today: 8/3/2010

2010-08-03T07:09:00.000-07:00

Harold Rayford-Live - I Am The Instrument (Tyscot)

The Scoop: New Video for James Fortune's "I Believe" On The Way

2010-08-03T06:33:00.000-07:00

James Fortune & FIYA shot the video for his latest single, "I Believe" featuring Zacardi Cortez and Shawn McLemore yesterday, and like the great tweet he is, he shared some pics from the photo shoot...The video was filmed at Higher Dimension Church in Houston where James is the Minister Of Music....BTW, I'm really digging the color scheme...Can't wait to see the finished product!

Here's a bonus pic of James, Zacardi, & Shawn sent out by someone who was at the shoot...

Rise N' Shine-Ted Winn "God Believes In You"

2010-08-03T06:01:00.000-07:00

Good Morning! If I haven't told you before, Ted Winn's latest album, Balance, is one of the best out right now, and this song "God Believes In You" is one of the reasons why...Check out Ted belting out this song at a church in Washington D.C.

Free Music: Brian Courtney Wilson "Just Love" & "Believe"

2010-08-02T12:17:00.000-07:00

Now, who said that you couldn't have a smooth, soulful, sound and be anointed? Whoever said that, hasn't heard Brian Courtney Wilson...This brother walked away from a stable job in pharmaceutical sales and answered the call to serve as a music minister...and I'm so glad he did!

His debut album, Just Love, has a great distinctive sound that both soothes and edifies, and right now you can get two of the tracks, ("Just Love" & "Believe") from that project for free! Just click on the links below, and get em' while the gettin's good! But be warned, once you get that taste, you might be like Pookie, feenin' to buy the rest of the CD! lol...

The Scoop: Kierra Sheard Engaged To Be Married

2010-08-02T11:49:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

According to the buzz on Twitter and Facebook, it seems like congratulations are in order for the daughter of my favorite Clark Sister, Karen...Yes, word has it that her daughter, Kierra Sheard, is engaged to be married! The 23 year old Gospel artist, student and entrepreneur, is being linked with Pastor Welton T. Smith IV, the founder of New Life Family Church in Detroit...

Congratulations to the happy couple, and we pray you the best!!

Peep This: William McDowell "I Give Myself Away"

2010-08-02T11:16:00.000-07:00

This brother is gonna be in concert at my church next Friday, and I can't wait to see him! This song is called "I Give Myself Away", and it's one of those praise and worship jams that are so popular nowadays...It's from his album, As We Worship Live, recorded at his home church, The Gathering Place in Sanford, Florida...

By the way, if you live the NY/NJ area, come check him out next Friday (7/13) at Christ Church in Montclair NJ...concert starts at 8pm...

Daily Scripture: Ecclesiastes 5:2 (NET)

2010-08-02T05:35:00.000-07:00

Ecclesiastes 5:2 Do not be rash with your mouth or hasty in your heart to bring up a matter before God, for God is in heaven and you are on earth! Therefore, let your words be few.

The Scoop: GMC has Two New Gospel Shows Premiering This Sunday

2010-08-01T08:09:00.000-07:00

It's been a long running joke that the Gospel Music Channel, well, just didn't have much Gospel Music on it....at least not the type that many African-Americans identify with...But that seems to be changing with the announcement of two new shows showcasing Urban/Contemporary Gospel...

The two shows are called Soul Train Gospel Experience, which comes on Sunday nights at 9PM, hosted by J. Moss, followed by Superfest, hosted by DeLeon Sheffield, which comes on at 10...Both shows premiere this week, and they look good, so let's support them! For more information, check out http://www.gospelmusicchannel.com/

Peep This: Jonathan Nelson feat Purpose - "Expect The Great (Official Video)"

2010-07-30T15:16:00.000-07:00

Check out the new official video for Jonathan Nelson's "Expect The Great"...It's the first single from his upcoming album "Better Days" (In stores Sept. 14th), and it's been getting a lot of love...Peep This!

Props to GospelPundit for the tip...

Free Music: Ricky Dillard, Daryl Coley, & Joe Pace from the "Psalms 150 Live" Collection

2010-07-30T10:05:00.000-07:00

You know I like to hip you to all the free Gospel music out there, so here's some more great downloads I came across in my travels...The music is from a nice digital compilation project called Psalms 150 Live, and it features music from some of the best singers and choirs out there, including songs from Ricky Dillard & New G, Joe Pace, Daryl Coley, and Lamar Campbell & Spirit Of Praise...

The complete project costs $6.99 to download, but right now they are offering three of the twelve songs for free! Here are the tracks you can get for free right now....

"You’ve Been Good" - Joe Pace II
"Our Father You Are Holy" – Ricky Dillard & New Generation
"Hallelujah You’re Worthy" – Daryl Coley

In order to get the music, just head on over to http://www.psalms150live.com/ and click on the "Top Ten Downloads" section....you can also get the complete CD from Amazon by clicking on the link below...

Daily Scripture: Ecclesiastes 4:13 (NET)

2010-07-30T08:32:00.001-07:00

Ecclesiastes 4:13 A poor but wise youth is better than an old and foolish king who no longer knows how to receive advice.

Gospel Charts: Jasper William Jr.'s "Landmark" Debuts at #6

2010-07-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

This week's Gospel Chart remains virtually unchanged at the top, with the exception of Jasper Williams Jr.'s new release Landmark, which debuts at #6 in the top 10....It replaces Gospel Rapper Pro, who debuted at #8 last week with Redemption (currently #22)...Marvin Sapp continues to hold on to the #1 slot with Here I Am, which has held that position for 4 weeks in a row....

Here's the complete top 10 Gospel releases:

1. Marvin Sapp-Here I Am
2. Various-WOW Gospel 2010
3. Trip Lee-Between Two Worlds
4. Hezekiah Walker & LFC-Souled Out
5. Fred Hammond-Love Unstoppable
6. Jasper Williams Jr.-Landmark
7. Brian Courtney Wilson-Just Love
8. BeBe & CeCe Winans-Still
9. Forever Jones-Get Ready
10. Donnie McClurkin-Playlist: The Very Best of Donnie Mcclurkin (Dig)

Rise N' Shine: Wess Morgan - "I Choose To Worship"

2010-07-29T07:52:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone! Here's Pastor Wess Morgan singing one of my favorite songs right now...It's called "I Choose To Worship", and I'm really digging the soulful delivery and beautiful lyrics....BTW, this brother has a powerful testimony! He smoked Crack when he was 14, sold drugs, spent time in and out of Jail, but now he is delivered and ministering through word and song! Check out the second video for that part...God Bless him!

Daily Scripture: Proverbs 29:7 (NET)

2010-07-28T18:19:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 29:7 The righteous person cares for the legal rights of the poor; the wicked does not understand such knowledge.

Peep This: Karen Clark Sheard @ the Essence Music Festival

2010-07-28T17:34:00.000-07:00

Here's a cool interview with Karen Clark Sheard taken from this month's Essence Music Festival....In the clip, she talks about her latest album, All in One, discussing how both her son and daughter helped her with it's creation, as well as the significance of it's title...Check it out!

In Stores Today: 7/27/10

2010-07-27T19:01:00.000-07:00

Lowell Pye-"Finally"

Fred Hammond-"Life in the Word"

Rise N' Shine: Ricky Dillard & New G with Hezekiah Walker & The Love Fellowship Choir

2010-07-26T07:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday! Here's another hot clip to get your day started...This video was taken from the beginning of the 2010 Stellar Awards, and it features two of the best choirs in the land along with their famous choir directors. First up is Ricky Dillard & New G with their Cotton Club inspired number, and they are followed by Hezekiah Walker & The Love Fellowship Choir, singing their mega-hit "Souled Out"...Enjoy!!

Daily Scripture: Proverbs 18:15 (NET)

2010-07-26T04:06:00.001-07:00

Proverbs 18:15 The discerning person acquires knowledge, and the wise person seeks knowledge.

Rise N' Shine: Coko - "The Winner in Me"

2010-07-23T08:01:00.000-07:00

I was a huge fan of Coko when she sang with SWV, but i'm an even bigger fan of her Gospel Music career! Here's a video for the title track from her latest Gospel project, The Winner in Me...I love the concept...check it out!

Daily Scripture: Psalms 100:5 (NET)

2010-07-22T20:49:00.000-07:00

Psalms 100:5 For the LORD is good. His loyal love endures, and he is faithful through all generations.

Gospel Charts: Gospel Rapper Pro Debuts At #8 With "Redemption"

2010-07-22T10:49:00.000-07:00

This week's Gospel Chart has all the usual suspects, but new in the Top 10 is Memphis' PRO, debuting at #8 with his new release Redemption...this is the second Holy Hip Hop entry in the top 10, with Trip Lee's Between Two Worlds still charting high at #3....Holy Hip Hop has come a long way! I remember when a Christian Rap Artist couldn't sniff the charts!...Anyway, I listened to a little bit of Pro's album, and while it seemed a little too "Dirty South" (in terms of style and production) for my tastes, I do love the messages in his songs....very bible based, which I think is of the utmost importance....Definitely worth a listen...

Here's the complete Top Ten...

1. Marvin Sapp- Here I Am
2. Various- WOW Gospel 2010
3. Trip Lee- Between Two Worlds
4. Fred Hammond- Love Unstoppable
5. BeBe & CeCe Winans- Still
6. Hezekiah Walker & LFC- Souled Out
7. Forever Jones-Get Ready
8. PRo-Redemption
9. Brian Courtney Wilson-Just Love
10. Donnie McClurkin-Playlist: The Very Best of Donnie Mcclurkin

Bonus: Here's a funny short film by PRo, talking about the making of "Redemption...

Peep This: Ledisi Singing "Be Grateful" @ The Walter Hawkins Tribute Concert

2010-07-22T08:27:00.000-07:00

Here's a little taste of the Walter Hawkins Tribute Concert that took place on Tuesday...It's obviously recorded by someone way back in the crowd, but the sound is still good, and Ledisi went in so hard on this song! Peep Richard Smallwood leading the choir...The concert will be shown in its entirety this Sunday at 8PM on the Gospel Music Channel! Follow me on Twitter and we can talk about the show as it progresses!

Daily Scripture: Psalms 99:9 (NET)

2010-07-21T20:48:00.000-07:00

Psalms 99:9 Praise the LORD our God! Worship on his holy hill, for the LORD our God is holy!

The Scoop : Brian Courtney Wilson Talks To ESSENCE About Following His Dream

2010-07-21T10:43:00.000-07:00

Image by Getty Images via @daylife

I just read a great article on ESSENCE.com about MusicWorld Gospel's Brian Courtney Wilson, and his dream of singing Gospel Music. His debut album Just Love, is currently #6 on the Gospel Album chart, and In the article he talks about the transition from a comfy job with benefits, to stepping out on Faith in the Music Biz...

Here's some of what he had to say:

On leaving the corporate world: Yes, I was in corporate America for close to ten years, and I heard what I say is a call from God, and my territory ran into Matthew Knowles studio. I would leave my dentist's office and see a big billboard of Destiny's Child and wonder what would it take to get there and to get singing? I connected with the [Windsor Village] church and they asked me to come and be their music minister.

On giving up a paycheck with benefits for music: It was very difficult; it was scary because you know when you got a steady check coming, you got a 401K plan coming every two weeks you get comfortable. That's the bottom line and I was reluctant to let go of that stability, but I also didn't wanna look up at 50 and say 'Man, I wish I had done this, this and tried that.' So, when Pastor Rudy gave me the opportunity to do music ministry at his church I jumped at it.

On signing with Beyonce's Dad: It was more like I try to pay attention to God's providence and that's why I talked about being where he was -- a block away from where the label was, and then the church was another block away. So to connect all those dots together, Pastor Rudy, who I had worked with and we're still friends, had been friends with Matthew Knowles for 25 years so he helped make that connection. I remember I was working in my yard and he called me to come in so we could meet. I talked to him for a little bit and I said to him, 'Man, I don't know if I can afford to dream.' And he looked around in his office, looked at all the Grammys on the walls and everything and he said, 'Man, the only reason I have all of this is because I dreamed.'

Free Music: Israel Houghton "Just Wanna Say"

2010-07-21T08:59:00.000-07:00

Here's another hot free download for you! The song is called "Just Wanna Say", and it's a great up-tempo jam from Israel Houghton's latest album, The Power of One! To get it, just head on over to GMC's "Free MP3 Download of the Week" and get it while you can!

Rise N' Shine: Jonathan Nelson- "There Shall Be a Performance" (feat. Kierra Sheard)

2010-07-21T05:54:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Folks! Here's some new music from Jonathan Nelson to start your day! I believe the song is called "There Shall Be A Performance", and it features Kierra Sheard singing her face clean off! That girl can Sang!! (Taped at the 2010 COGIC AIM convention)

Daily Scripture: Psalms 98:4 (NET)

2010-07-20T13:53:00.000-07:00

Psalms 98:4 Shout out praises to the LORD, all the earth! Break out in a joyful shout and sing!

(Updated) The Scoop: Walter Hawkins "A Tribute Performance" To Air This Sunday On The Gospel Music Channel

2010-07-20T12:58:00.000-07:00

Update: (7:25pm) It doesn't look like the tribute concert will be streamed live online, but Lovecenter.org has confirmed that the funeral service will be streamed live tomorrow at 11AM PST via their local news station website, KTVU.com
*****
Well there has been a lot of confusion, (with myself being part of the problem) regarding tonight's Tribute Concert for Bishop Walter Hawkins, and while I can't confirm that the concert will be streamed online at any point, I do know it will definitely be broadcast this Sunday, July 25th on the Gospel Music Channel....Mark your calendars!!

From the GMC website:

The biggest names in gospel music, including Yolanda Adams, Mary Mary and BeBe Winans, come together for an exclusive tribute honoring the life and achievements of gospel legend Bishop Walter Hawkins. There will be limited commercial interruption. Catch the Walter Hawkins Faith & Fame on Sunday at 6 pm et, followed by the special tribute concert at 8, only on gmc. Sunday – 8 pm et

Thanks to 1-800-Gospel for the tip

Peep This: Mary Mary Dicusses Their New Book "Be U" On StreamingFaith.com

2010-07-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hey folks...check out this new Mary Mary interview from Streamingfaith.com...They have a detailed discussion about their new book for the ladies called, Be U: Be Honest, Be Beautiful, Be Intentional, Be Strong, Be You!...In the clip, they tell why they wrote the book, and what it means to be all those things that they list in the title....Nice Interview!

Note: I removed the video clip because it was an auto-play video that came on automatically when it loaded, please click the link above to watch...Thanks!

Free Music: Get Canton Jones New Mixtape, "God The Father Part 1"!

2010-07-20T08:14:00.000-07:00

Just got word of this one on Twitter....Canton Jones just dropped his new mixtape, "God The Father Part 1", and it's free! All you have to do is visit his website, www.godthefathermusic.com, and add yourself to his mailing list, then you'll get the download link! I haven't heard it yet, but Canton always puts it down, so I know it's on point...Let me know what you think!

The Scoop: Walter Hawkins Homegoing Tickets Selling On Craigslist

2010-07-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

Walter Hawkins via last.fm

I guess I should have seen this coming, but I really didn't...It looks like people are selling the tickets to the Walter Hawkins homegoing celebration on Craigslist...I think that is so ghetto and disrespectful! The Love Center church made the tickets available for free so that fans could could be a part of the celebration, so what gives someone the right to sell what they got for free, even if they waited all night?

BTW, here's the text from one of the ads:

UNfortunately after waiting in a very very long line for more than 10 hrs,I can not attend the funeral or the celebration. I have BOTH tickets. 75EAch

$75 each was actually one of the lower prices, I heard some people were asking as high as $700, even though there are no ads for that much now.

I think this is disgusting, trying to make money off of a funeral...to those who can't go, just do the right thing, and give the tickets to someone who couldn't wait on line, like an elderly person for example. God will bless you for it....And for those looking for tickets, don't pay these people money and support this nonsense....What do you think about people selling tickets to the memorial concert? Does it matter if they waited for 12 hours to get them?

BTW, if you can't make it to the big A-List concert tonight, GospelFlava is reporting that it will be streamed on the lovecenter.org website tonight @ 7:30 PST, 10:30 EST...Then again...maybe not....

Props to Da Gospel Truth for the story...

Rise N' Shine: Donnie McClurkin "That's What I Believe" (Live)

2010-07-20T05:15:00.000-07:00

Here another video from TBN...It's Pastor Donnie McClurkin singing one of my all time favorite songs from one of my all time favorite albums, Live in London & More...It's been almost ten years since that CD came out, and it's still sounds just as fresh as it did back then! If you don't have it, get it!! God Bless!

Daily Scripture: Luke 10:2 (NET)

2010-07-19T17:49:00.000-07:00

Luke 10:2 He said to them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into his harvest.

Peep This: @TyeTribbett Talks About The Retirement Of G.A., & His Upcoming Album, FRESH!

2010-07-19T09:04:00.000-07:00

tye tribbett via last.fm

Tye Tribbett dropped these two videos on his YouTube video blog last night, and in the clips he is very candid about quite a few things going on in his career, first of all being, why he recently held open auditions for backup singers, along with his decision to dissolve his old group, G.A....In the second clip, he talks about his upcoming album, FRESH, which carries a title signifying a new start in his life, inspired by Isiah 43: 18-19, which says:

18 "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. 19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.

If you weren't aware, Tye is coming out of a tough period in his life, and it's great to see God refocusing him, and blessing him with a "Fresh" anointing! I believe that he is one of the true minsters in Gospel Music, so I support him in anything that he does! (Plus he's a fellow New Jerseyan, so that doesn't hurt either...lol) Anyway check out the vids...according to Tye, the new album should be out this September or October, and if you want to keep up with what's going on, subscribe to his official YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/user/tyetribtv, or check out his website, http://www.tyetribbett.com/.

(Updated) The Scoop: Musical Celebration For Bishop Walter Hawkins Will Be Streamed Live On Internet

2010-07-19T08:13:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

Update: (7/20 3:22pm) The Gospel Music Channel has confirmed they will be playing the concert @ 8PM on Sunday....No word on the streaming....(thanks to 1-800-Gospel)

Update: (7/20 10:51am) : EJ over at GospelPundit is reporting that the concert will not be streamed live tonight, but the actual memorial service will most likely be streamed tomorrow morning @ 11AM...but he also says that the Gospel Music Channel will be airing the Concert this Sunday, 7/25, from 8 to 10 pm....so I say check both places, and hopefully you'll get to see it....I know I want to!

********

If you looked at the list of Gospel superstars that will be performing at the musical celebration for Bishop Walter Hawkins, and said Man...I wish I could be there!...Then I have some good news for you! According to the GospelFlava blog, the event will be streamed live on www.lovecenter.org, starting at 7:00PM PST. (they have 7:30 CST listed, but i'm assuming that's at typo, since the event is scheduled for 7PM in Oakland, CA-I will follow-up on that)

However, the fact that they will be streaming the event is a wonderful thing. According to The Love Center website, hundreds of fans camped out in front of the Paramount Theater in Oakland last Thursday to get a hold of free tickets for the concert and memorial service taking place tomorrow and Wednesday, and when they finally were given out, they were gone in an hour and a half. So it's great that they recognize so many more want to see this momentous concert. They better have those servers ready, because I have a feeling there gonna be a whole lotta folks trying to log on! Are you going to tune in?

Update: (11:17AM) I found this video of the folks in Oakland waiting on line for tickets last Friday...It seems like they only gave out 700 tickets for the event, and some people reportedly waited in front of the theater from 9PM on Thursday, until the tickets were given out on Noon Friday...God Bless Them! (Props to Gospellyfe.com for the vid and info)

Rise N' Shine: Forever Jones "He Wants It All" (Live on TBN)

2010-07-19T05:03:00.000-07:00

Here's Forever Jones on TBN's "Praise The Lord" earlier this month, singing their hit song He Wants It All from the album, Get Ready....This song is Great!

Throwback Of The Day: Yolanda Adams - "Open My Heart"

2010-07-16T17:34:00.000-07:00

Love this video...and this song...from "The Best Of Me" - Yolanda Adams Greatest Hits

Free Music: Fred Hammond-"Awesome God"

2010-07-16T16:55:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard Fred Hammond's latest album "Love Unstoppable" yet, I don't know what you're waiting for...but for those who haven't, here's you're chance to get one of the best songs from it for free! Just click the link below, and get it while the getting is good!

Peep This: Behind The Scenes Of Israel Houghton's New Project- "Love God, Love People"

2010-07-16T15:43:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

Here's a cool Behind The Scenes video of Israel Houghton working on his new project, "Love God, Love People: The London Sessions", in London's legendary Abbey Road Studios. This is the same studio made famous by The Beatles, and Israel is definitely taken aback by his ability to worship god in such a celebrated location.

Also in the video are award-winning producers Tommy Sims, and Aaron Lindsey, and it's so crazy to see all these masters getting down in the studio! Definitely worth the watch...

"Love God, Love People: The London Sessions" will hit stores August 31st, and features by Kirk Franklin, Take 6, and of course New Breed...can't wait to hear it! I'm always down for a new Israel joint!!

Props to Rocspace for the video! Also...check out their great piece on the new album...

(Updated) The Scoop: Darwin Hobbs In The Hospital, Please Pray For His Speedy Recovery

2010-07-16T15:01:00.000-07:00

anDarwin Hobbs via last.fm

UPDATE: (7/17 1:31am) Darwin's wife Traci was on CoCo Brother's radio show last night, and gave an update on his condition. She advised that he was in stable condition, and has started taking blood thinners for the clots in his lungs. She also asked everyone to continue lifting them up in Prayer.

Cocobrotherlive.com has started a page where people can post their prayers for Darwin, and at this point there is about 106 prayers on the list. Please go and add yours!
********

Hey Folks, I woke up this morning to find out that Darwin Hobbs was in the hospital with blood clots in both his lungs. According to EJ on GospelPundit, he was en route to Indiana for a concert last night, but after experiencing shortness of breath, made a detour to the hospital. He also reports Darwin will be in the hospital for at least 4 days.

Word of Darwin's ailment spread quickly on Twitter, and many rushed to send out prayers and well wishes to both him and his wife. Around 8am, Darwin himself chimed in on Twitter, and even though he was still in the hospital under doctor's orders not to walk around, he took the time to thank everyone for standing with him, and requested that people pray for the clots in his lungs to dissolve.

Here's the text of the tweet:

On Friday 16th July 2010, @therealdhobbs said:

Can't sleep..not allwd 2 walk..might as well TWEET! :) thnx ALL 4 standing w/Traci & I! Pls pray tht the clots in my lungs DISSOLVE! With long life, He will satisfy!!!

So please take the time to pray for Darwin and his family, he has given so much of himself to Gospel fans over the years, so let's give back to him in his time of need!

Throwback Of The Day: The Winans - "Millions"

2010-07-15T16:17:00.000-07:00

Millions didn't make it but I was one of the ones who did! Man, I love this song! From the Winans classic album, "Decisions"...

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