M.E.X Magazine - Issue 03

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M.E.X MAGAZINE | ISSUE 3

M.E.X MAGAZINE | ISSUE 3

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Founded, Edited & Published by: Adam Brooks > adam@m-briomusic.com Matt Brooks > matt@m-briomusic.com Associate Editor > Estelle Anderson

Contributors Yinka Awojobi > Ed Bird > Yvonne Brooks > Dominique McPherson > Stephen L. Jones Nurisha Liggins > Neechy > Jennifer Perry > Iyisha Rocke > Art Director > Adam Brooks Content Development > Matt Brooks Media Contact > media@ireadmex.com For advertising inquiries contact: e: adam@m-briomusic.com Click Here for the M.E.X Media Pack or view > http://ireadmex.com

Scan this barcode and follow Adam on twitter http://twitter.com/adambrux

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Scan this barcode and follow Matt on twitter http://twitter.com/mattjabrooks

M.E.X Magazine™ is owned and published electronically by M-BRIO Music, a trading name of the Brooks Brothers Venture Group (BBVG).

Copyright 2011 BBVG. All rights reserved. ® “M.E.X Magazine is a trademarks owned by BBVG. “ireadmex.com” is a trademark of BBVG. No part of this electronic magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of BBVG. Requests for permission should be directed to: M-BRIO Music, Aston Cross, 6 Rocky Lane, Birmingham B6 5RQ.

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07 – A Word From The Editors 08 – Free Music - Fina Wowor & Rebirth 10 – Dominique McPherson - Facebook Stalking 12 – Neechy – U.S Gospel Update 14 – Band Feature - The Tale of Tenth Avenue North 17 – Interview - S.O.S 24 – Steven L. Jones – Branding your Faith 26 – Twitter Tips - Yinka Awojobi 28 – Book Feature - Mr & Mrs Smith 31 – An Interview with an Athiest (VIDEO) 33 – Interview - Daniel Johnson 38 – Jennifer Perry - Do you Remember?

40 – Interview - Laura Kaczor

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@mexmag

45 – Ed Bird – Your Kingdom Come (Part 2) 47 – My First – Courtney king 50 – Cover Story – Kirk Franklin 56 – Iyisha Rocke - The Choice of Sacrifice 58 – SpotLight - Cait Plaige 61 – MuzoSpot - Michelle Osbourne 66 – Nurisha Liggins – 25 Keys to Love 68 – Yvonne Brooks – On Purpose 70 – This is My Story - Melissa Brock

Find us on FaceBook, Search ‘m-brio music’ & hit the LIKE button

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Go on... you know you want to...

M.E.X MAGAZINE | ISSUE 3

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Welcome to M.E.X Magazine issue 3.

The last month has been filled with so many ups and downs with tragedy’s happening all over the world and so many lives being lost. God is still faithful though and is still at work in all of our lives. If you’ve seen the devastation and have been impacted by it we encourage you to do something about it. You’ll be surprised how far a little goes when supporting world causes... Check it out and see what you can do to help!

On a lighter note, since issue 2 of M.E.X, we have moved into our brand new office thank the Lord.

We’ve seen an increase in productivity, enthusiasm and professionalism too. It’s very exciting for us and we’re excited about the impact this will have on all of our endeavours. The office is in the heart of all things creative in our city of Birmingham and it’s really a great place to be.

For those of you who don’t know we run http:// www.m-briomusic.com accompanied by the mbrio blog http://www.m-briomusic.tumblr.com – A great place to find great Christian music and lots of FREE DOWNLOADS too so check it out if you haven’t already.

We also run http://www.m-briotickets.com which is a Christian E-Ticketing agency that sells tickets for various types of Christian events.

There’s more that we do but those are the most established of them so be sure to check them all out and learn more about what do.

We hope you enjoy M.E.X issue 3 and find some great new music, empowering and enlightening articles that we hope will inspire and challenge you in your walk with Christ.

We’ve got something VERY special coming for M.E.X issue 4 so if you like it we encourage you to share the link with your friends via email, face book, twitter and any other social network you use.

Also, we’d love to encourage you to subscribe to M.E.X. It’s totally free to subscribe and in the coming months there is going to be many, many free give-a-ways of great Christian music and other great products that you’ll only be able to win if you’re a subscriber. Another great benefit to subscribing is that you’ll get the latest news and information on M.E.X and also get to read it first... Before anyone else... If all of that appeals to you; you know what to do!

Adam & Matt - Editors, Founder & Publishers of M.E.X Magazine P.S - M.E.X is now on twitter so no need to use the hashtag anymore, (#mexmag). Follow us and tag us in all of your M.E.X related tweets

@mexmag

When we told you we would be bringing you the best emerging talent from around the world we weren’t joking. Fina Wowor & Rebirth are a new contemporary Gospel out-fit all the way from Indonesia.

We have 3 songs from their EP ‘Victory’ available for FREE DOWNLOAD on our website http://www.m-briomusic.com The songs are ‘Victory’, ‘You Are Great’ and ‘Bersukacitalah’ (Rejoice when translated to English), 3 GREAT songs to add to your collection all the way from Jakarta, Indonesia.

Kingsway are delighted to announce that the ‘One Voice album’ has been nominated in the Special Event Album of the Year category at this year’s GMA Dove Awards.

ed everyone from Erica Campbell (Mary Mary) to Darlene Zschech, Tim Hughes to Smokie Norful, Israel Houghton, Martin Smith, a specially reformed Nu Colours, Kiki Sheard, Brenton Brown, The album features the Warryn Campbell, Tommy leading lights of gospel, Sims, Muyiwa and Matt CCM and worship move- Redman. ments, One Voice unit-

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My heart pounds. My hands get sweaty. The anticipation is rising! Why may you ask? I just discovered that my crush has a Facebook! This is great! By Facebook stalking him, I’ll be able to draw false conclusions based off of predetermined opinions I’ve formed in my mind! :)

Creeping on someone’s Facebook profile. Usually someone that you never speak to, only hear about and see around. Facebook stalking usually requires having set rounds, or in other words certain profiles that you like to visit each day. You read everything on the new’s feed avidly. If someone’s status is dramatic, you quickly click over to his or her page to see if you can find the cause. Changed relationship statuses bring you joy. Somehow a quick trip onto Facebook turns into a three hour stalk fest of people that you only distantly know. (As defined in Urban Dictionary) I know, I know. Everyone Facebook stalks right?

Sometimes we love to justify our actions on Facebook. The argument being, that if you didn’t want others to know about your life, you wouldn’t post it all over the Internet.

However, there’s a strong difference in stalking someone and getting to know someone. Have you ever found yourself interested in someone and you immediately try to Google their name so that you can find out everything about them? Immediately their personal Facebook may pop up, LinkedIn, personal website, Twitter, etc. As soon as we are able to gather up this information we began to compare our lifestyles with theirs to see if it would be a “good match”.

that this person is godlier, funnier, sweeter, or smarter than they really are!

I know some may say, “It’s not like we’re sitting in a windowless van outside someone’s house for hours, watching their every move.

No, we’re just reading what they wanted us to read. No privacy settings, no problem!”

However, you don’t realize that you are contaminating your mind and making prejudgments! Saying Facebook stalking is okay is like saying casual dating is okay as well. As long as you don’t “go too far and cross the line” you’re good!

In my personal opinion, I believe that stalking someone on Facebook is damaging because we are robbing someone of their individuality. You can only get a partial understanding of someone by the way they present themselves on social networks. I believe true understanding comes when you engage with that person in an intimate setting. Intimate meaning close acquaintance and association. If you really want to get to know someone, you should really take the time to reach out to that person and not use Facebook as your building block of a relationship. A relationship that is built on Facebook stalking will most likely never come to pass.

The search begins and you find yourself spending countless hours examining their every move and even stalking their past girlfriends/ boyfriends! I know that some may think that this isn’t as bad as it seems but I’ll assure you that it is.

Our own mind can be our biggest danger zone.

Our thoughts consist of a massive collection of beliefs, values, opinions, etc. that we have accumulated throughout our life and stored away in our minds. These thoughts control who we are as people and even our actions. Some of the information that we store away is accurate, and some is distorted and imaginary scenarios we have put together.

Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of managing our minds. He says, “And do not be conformed to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” [Romans 12:2].

Your mind is where the true transformation takes place. When you Facebook stalk someone, you are gathering information into your mind and allowing this to dictate your further actions.

The word says to guard your heart because it is the wellspring of life.

However, you first need to guard your imagination before you can guard your heart. When you are eager to be in a relationship or when you are Facebook stalking someone, you can imagine

Contributor - Dominique Mcpherson

Links http://twitter.com/quechanel http://www.facebook.com/DominiqueChanelEdition http://dominiquechaneledition.com/

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What’s up good people? Man, I’m tellin’ ya, I’m sooo excited about all of the amazing things that God is doing for and through His people right now. There are so many great psalmists, soloists, and artists who are lending their voices to bless the people.

I want to share a few tidbits with those who are looking to release a single or project. Be sure to be yourself. It is very easy to look at the success of others, and try to copy what they did. God has given each of us a special talent and gift. Our ultimate desire is that these gifts be used for HIS glory, which requires us to use them in the manner in which God has instructed us to. It’s totally cool to admire your favorite artist or singer, but God has given you a specific path for YOUR gift. If we are consistently trying to imitate the gifts of others, via our albums, then we have done a disservice to the body. Stand still and have faith and confidence in what God has placed in your heart. He has a specific audience that He wants you to reach. This will most certainly be done by seeking God on how your music ministry should be delivered. You’re gonna be awesome, I just know it.

Okay, are you ready for some good news?

< Tony Frost I gotta start with this dude Tony Frost. He’s a new cat who took the Internet by storm with his first single called AS LONG AS I LIVE, when he released it as a free download on March 22nd, under The 4 Runners record label. The song is a nice up tempo, chillin’ in your car, while giving God praise – type of song, lol. You can snag the free download yourself and catch up with Tony Frost at http://www.facebook. com/TonyFrostMusic and http://www.Twitter. com/TonyFrostMusic Okay, let’s talk about Kirk Franklin. Kirk Franklin’s 12th project called HELLO FEAR is in stores now!

Yep. You already know that he’s on the grind with his tour with Steve Harvey, right? But did you know that he was also shooting a new movie and music video? Yep, and it if that wasn’t enough for ya, he’s also promoting the paperback version of his New York Times bestseller, The Blueprint; and taping audition segments for BET’s Sunday Best. The video for his new song “I Smile,” which by the way, has cameos by

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Steve Harvey, Rickey Smiley John Gray, will appear on 106th and Park.

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Wait, time out, can I tell you guys something funny?

So I was invited to an event this weekend. On the invitation, they listed the bio or description of the speaker - BISHOP so and so. In the description it says, He is a loving husband of 1 wife. I don’t get it. Like, who came up with the bright idea to list how many wives he had? lol Does listing it make him anymore holy?

Okay, now back to our regularly scheduled program.

Let’s talk about my dude, my homeslice, my brotherin-Christ, THE AMBASSADOR.

< Third Day

Atlanta-based rock band Third Day uses the issue of adoption as a metaphor for God’s love in the video for its latest single, CHILDREN OF GOD, which was released in December 2010. I’m always excited when artists, actors, public figures, etc…opt to extend their platforms to highlight social issues.

“I was in attendance at Kierra Sheard’s live recording this February, and let me tell you…her sound is new and fresh” This topic is very dear to their hearts, as Third Day’s lead vocalist Mac Powell, has recently welcomed adopted son Emmanuel and daughter Birdie. How cool is that?

I’ll go ahead and say it…Third Day…you guys rock!

Byron Cage is gearing up for another live recording this June! Yep, June 18th to be in Chicago, IL at House of Hope. At his last recording, which took place in Detroit, MI, we were on our feet the entire time giving God praise.

I can only imagine what type of energy he will bring to this project. The fact that he was recently pranked on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, is still cracking me up, lol. I’ll keep you guys up to date as the day draws closer.

If you wanna see the prank clip, it’s on my website.

Speaking of live recordings, J.J. Hairston and Youthful Praise, along with Myron Butler & Levi, are also preparing for live recordings this year. Looks like we’re gonna have a ton of great music in 2011.

I was in attendance at Kierra Sheard’s live recording this February, and let me tell you…her sound is new and fresh. I TRULY enjoyed myself at the recording. She has a great mix of songs – rock, worshop, and CCM. You can see the video recap here. http://www.neechy. com/2011/03/03/kierra-sheards-live-recording-recap/

Yezzir. I just rocked out with him, Da’ T.R.U.T.H., Michelle, Bonilla, and Preashea Hilliard in Austin, Tx for SXSW, which is known as one of the largest film, tech, and interactive festivals in the world. We had a blast!

The Ambassador has just released a new song called THE REINTRODUCTION: of The A-M-B-A. His fourth solo project titled STOP THE FUNERAL, will be released on July 12, 2011. For more information on The Ambassador, visit: http://www.theambassadoronline. com Sooo, of course you’re a fan of songs like GLORIOUS, MIGHTY GOD, and BECAUSE OF WHO YOU ARE from worship leader Martha Munizzi. Well the Stellar Award winner is back with a new project called MAKE IT LOUD which will release on April 26th.

The project was recorded live in Orlando Florida and features special guests, William McDowwell, Michael Gungor, Jonathan Stockstill, Lori Morrison, Daniel Eric Groves, and also features Martha Munizzi’s daughter, Danielle Munizzi. How cool is that? “ It’s always a pleasure to rock out with you guys each month in Mex Mag! If you want more information, head over to my website at http://www.neechy.com or http://www.neechyradio.com Until we chat again, God bless ya!

Contributor - Neechy

Links http://www.twitter.com/Neechy http://www.facebook.com/NeechyTV http://www.Neechy.com

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All right, if you want to get personal with Tenth Avenue North, there are some things you should know. First of all, Jeff is a cyborg.

Half human, half robot, half Irish, half Asian. That’s a whole lot of halves, but if you do the math you’ll see it all adds up. We call him half-and-half for short.

Jason can build things with his hands. Big things.

Complicated things. Things like magic lockets, cars, houses, and babies. Not real babies, but ones that look real, and would probably look good on an old lady’s

porch next to the yard gnomes. My name is Mike, and I am a Native American. My Indian name is Squatting Moose, and according to ChaCha, I could beat Al Roker in a fight. Roker may have the power of the weather behind him, but I have the power of God! We met in sunny West Palm Beach, Florida, almost a decade ago, at Palm Beach Atlantic College. And that was before it became a university, and before Tenth Avenue North was more than just a street name. That all changed though when Jason and I moved into some

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“We won a few Dove Awards and put out another album, but we’re still just trying to find our way in the Christian music industry” it does to a central operating comprehensive mainframe! But after a few years, a few bands, and several member switch outs later, he came to be at home with himself and with the Florida weather, and eventually became the permanent electric guitarist and fixture for the band. Scott materialized almost a year before that, and started playing with us through a common position at a local church called Christ Fellowship. A few years passed. Scott exited and Ruben Juarez III entered.

student housing off of that street and named our band after it. That’s where the magic happened after all, and we don’t ever want to forget it.

Jeff came down to Florida from Indiana a few years later. He was new to the south and he even admits that he had a hard time fitting in at first. What with being part robot and all, can you really blame him? If you think humidity messes with your hair, you should see what

We won a few Dove Awards and put out another album, but we’re still just trying to find our way in the Christian music industry “dodging traffic at the intersection of art, faith, and commerce,” as Jon Foreman once put it. We all come from church backgrounds and families, and therefore, are not satisfied saying the same old things in the same old ways. What we’re hoping for with this music that we’re making is to not just entertain people. I think it’s safe to say that we already have plenty of that.

What we’re wanting is to see people encounter truth.

Remember, we all worked at a church for some time, and there we saw plenty of emotion. We saw plenty of people having a good time, but it wasn’t long until we realized that if emotion isn’t being evoked by truth, well, then it just doesn’t last. And we want this love in hearts to last. I guess you could say we’re done just trying to get emotional from blast beats and hip guitar lyrics. Instead, we desire to be cut to the heart. To be honest, genuine, and faithful to what we believe is truth.

Nobody said it would be easy, but if easy isn’t true, then who wants it?

Links

http://www.twitter.com/tenthavenorth http://www.facebook.com/tenthavenuenorth http://www.tenthavenuenorth.com

Win 2 tickets to see Kour Kornerz LIVE in concert... To find out how to enter this competition SUBSCRIBE to our mailing list.

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Source of Strength (SOS) are a new up and coming group from Trinidad and Tobago. They sent through their music and we were intrigued so we spoke to one of the group leaderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Gary McSween to get to know more about them and their music.

How are you doing whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your week been like so far?

Well, we just came off a weekend of prophetic prayer for the youth of Trinidad and Tobago at the annual D-Day YOUTH RALLY. Much prayer, preparation and band rehearsals went into getting ready for this particular event. It was an awesome experience leading the youth of the nation in true worship. What an honour it was

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to share in such a monumental event, with the testimonies of the lives touched by SOS ministry being the most rewarding. The week ahead is pretty much packed with band rehearsal on Monday, and then getting the band ready for a second radio interview with Family Focus Isaac 98.1fm on Tuesday night and also preparation for Nazarene Youth Conference on January 30th.

Most of our readerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know who you are. Fill them in on what you do, your music, influences and your journey to where you are where.

SOS. We are from the beautiful island of Trinidad and Tobago, which is located in the southern Caribbean, Lying just off the northeastern coast of Venezuela and south of Grenada in the

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Lesser Antilles. SOS means Source of Strength and it is a vision and a concept that had been birthed at least three years ago by Dwayne Thomas. Source of Strength consist of three ma jor entities; the SOS Band, Source of Strength Foundation and SOSINC Business Company.

The SOS Band is a professional praise and worship group that was founded in January 2010 with the aim of reaching the youth of Trinidad and Tobago and the rest of the world through song. With the group being led by Dwayne Thomas and Gary McSween, our intention is to lead young people into a deeper, more meaningful relationship with God through worship.

Continued >>>

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We consist of a total of 13 musicians and singers from churches across Trinidad, which is quite unique. Each of whom, have an impressive track record in music and the performing arts.

Our influences are vast and because of these diverse influences, what comes out of us is unexpected. For example, we have 8 vocalists with distinct styles and backgrounds such as Jazz, R&B, Neo-soul, Classical and Alternative while the musicians embody the American Black Gospel style of playing. One of the most important things is that we cannot lose our identity as Trinidadians and that is why the Caribbean beat and vibe infiltrates our music tremendously.

Putting all that together you simply get SOS the band.

The vision/mission of the Source of Strength Foundation is a ma jor part of our ministry and it is geared towards bringing about social transformation through music. We intend to execute this mission via music summer camps in communities and to give assistance to underprivileged families truly making a distinct difference.

You’re still a fairly new group and you’re still going strong. That’s awesome and shows that there is life in and growth within Christian music in Trinidad and Tobago. What is your experience of Christian music there?

As is pertains to the music scene here in Trinidad, it is filled with creative and innovative artistes. Just as our cultural influences are diverse, the genres and musical options are vast and range from Calypso, Soca, R&B, Jazz with a lot of our local artistes being influenced by Reggae and Hip Hop. Patrons can easily find a concert or gathering that fits their preference and be blessed and even entertained. If you are intrigued by a soulful, silky smooth approach to worship you can be lead by the sounds of Russell Leonce, (who has also been featured on www.m-briomusic.com), Curtis Jordan, Nisa Nora and others. If you prefer a more Caribbean/Alternative vibe then Rizon is for you. What ever moves your spirit there is an artiste or minister to cater to your needs.

You’ve spoken a lot about the various stylistic backgrounds different member’s of SOS have. How have you managed to combine all of this and your indigenous music without it sounding incoherent?

Of course as identified before our first influence is that of Caribbean rhythm.

Other influences include: Tye Tribbett, Israel Houghton, D’ Angelo, Jill Scott, Adele, Fantasia, Mali Music…just

to name a few of the younger cats. We also have the more seasoned influences like Marvin Sapp, Kim Burrell, Aretha Franklin, Billie Holiday, Miles Davis, Nat King Cole, Roberta Flack, Mahalia Jackson, etc. These are some of the influences that would be heard coming out of our ministry. It has been difficult for us to select a genre that we can permanently fall under but we have just narrowed it down to a coined new term “Anointed Fusion”.

If you weren’t involved in music what would you be doing?

We probably wouldn’t have been born, because what naturally flows out of our being is music, (lol). Most of the members are still in school, some are pursuing, and others finished with their first degree. So to answer that question most of us would have been in school or working. We would definitely be miserable because we all have common ground in the fact that we are purposed to music and the arts.

What has been your biggest challenge as a group (from the start of the journey until now)?

This is a young group so all of our challenges can be considered large. The largest though would have to be the merging of different temperaments under one vision, purpose and calling. Where ever personalities meet there is always going to be the initial friction before the smooth flow or equilibrium is found. That, therefore, was our biggest challenge and one that we overcome daily with the strength and wisdom of God himself.

When did you realise you had a call on your life to minister through music? How did you feel when you received the call?

SOS was birthed as said before almost three years ago by one of our co-ordinators Dwayne Thomas. Since that time to now the call on our life has been strong but we must admit we were reluctant to accept. This as you would know is a normal feature of those who are called by God to do a task. So the initial feeling was one of insecurity and fear. That was overthrown by a spirit of assurance and confidence in the fact that He who has started the work will perform it until the day of Christ.

From the perspective of an artist/group; how have you found the Christian/Gospel music industry and what if anything would you change about it?

Locally there are a lot of challenges that we face. Much improvement can be made with the interaction that takes place between artistes and church/promoter or institution. Also as in many other places around the world too many of our churches take true minstrels for granted not understanding what it takes and how much work goes into being a musician/minister. This removes common ground and there is a gap created between parties.

We would definitely encourage the development of institutions that are geared towards developing artistes both musically, theoretically and spiritually, thereby presenting a well-rounded minister.

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Where do you see yourself as a group, in 5 years time?

One of our initial goals is to be one of the main vessels in the hand of God used to take the people in the vicinity of the Trinidad and Tobago, the Caribbean and by extension the world into throne room worship. We should have completed two albums that would bless for years to come. Five years from now SOS would not just be a musical ministry but an established institution that is directly concerned with the development and production of musicians and ministers who are equipped in leading souls to the kingdom. We would also be a household name as it pertains to non-profit ventures all geared to presenting the kingdom to the nations.

What do you think of our website http://www.mbriomusic.com ?

For starters there are not that many visionaries existing in this generation. M-brio music is definitely a forerunner with respect to presenting the gospel at the highest standard worldwide.

The platform of exposure to which an emerging artist is given is tremendous and phenomenal.

The respect that this website has worldwide is incredible and God is definitely in control. SOS therefore is in love with this website, and we declare that it is second to none. The sky is truly the limit when one’s ministry can be displayed on such a platform as this. Therefore we pray that God continues to smile upon the visionaries and that many can be drawn to the kingdom from what this website is presenting.

We know that with many artist’s, when they release a single/album it’s a reflection of where they’re at in their lives. What does Transformed ‘NEW WAY’ say about where you are in your life/ Where can people find out more about you? ministry?

(MySpace, website etc) For any minister to be effective he or she must minister from the point of a reality of life not a http://www.sosincmusic.com concept in thought. Transformed speaks of such http://www.facebook.com/SOSINCMUSIC a mind set where the change that we desire is http://www.youtube.com/SourceOfStrength not just on the outside or from the mouth but it http://www.ReverbNation.com/SOSINCMUSIChstems from an inner transformation of the mind ttp://www.twitter.com/SOSINCMUSIC which is the core of the person. We were in need of that and therefore we were given transformed. Booking contact; bookings@glowmediatt.com God has provided a “New Way”. http://www.glowmediatt.com What’s next for you, what can people expect Any final words? from you in 2011?

Next, is most times next for us, lol. Which is to say that we are in no way limiting the move of God upon our waters, therefore it can be anything from touring the world, feeding a hungry child, wherever God’s providence leads. If we were to do a short list of some of the things within our purview for 2011 they would include: the release of our mini album in August of this year, a lot of ground work with our foundation (NGO) as it pertains to healing in the life of troubled teens, and the less fortunate persons, and a grand concert/ thanksgiving worship closer to the end of year in commemoration of the blessings of God for the year 2010/ 2011 “just to name a few”.

Thank you for this great opportunity and exposure. We don’t take it for granted because it didn’t have to be us. We are humbled by the grace bestowed upon us by the Brooks brothers.

We pray that m-briomusic continues to walk in the will of God for all the lives involved and the ministry. And to all those who would be blessed by the vision of SOS we want to take the opportunity to declare that you shall be blessed and that all the Glory and Honour is to be directed to GOD. For God is our SOS.

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For their debut album ‘Airtight’, released back in July last year, Empire Nation teamed up with producer Paul Burton (Snow Patrol, Athlete) and “delivered a high quality, consistent sound that brings to mind a mix of Delirious?, Leeland, Simple Minds and occasional hints of Morrissey’s vocal tone (minus the angst!).”

Get the ‘Airtight’ single for Free Here > Buy the full ep on iTunes and Amazon Get a signed hard copy from their website - with a free poster Price: £7.99

IN ASSOCIATION WITH...

Press Play

5 COPIES AVAILABLE

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From a corporate perspective, your brand is what your company stands for. It’s what it is known for. It’s a promise. Branding is the act of delivering the promise your company makes to the world. A good brand is a name you can trust. One whose mission can be identified upon sight. What does your life’s brand say about you?

As a brand director, for the past 7 years it has been my job to communicate the mission and objectives of several ma jor entertainers and corporations in a positive, clear and effective way. Confirming my clients credibility and connecting them to their target prospects while motivating potential consumers through a series of marketing strategies is the name of the game. As a man of faith, it has been my job for over 20 years to be an Ambassador of Jesus Christ, taking the gospel to the four corners of the world, evangelizing and equipping the lost while making his name, his promises and my faith known by any means necessary.

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perspective. I want to use this opportunity to encourage and advise those who may be starting a new business by sharing my past and present triumphs as well as failures. I also want to use this medium to challenge those who have been in the business to maintain ethical standards and Godly principles as the basis of their practices, allowing their faith to speak to the lives of those they encounter on a daily basis.

As we look into our current world affairs, tsunamis and bombings coupled with the global state of our economy all seem to be foretelling of his return. Now more than ever it’s time that we Brand our Faith.

We have a job to do. Let’s make Matthew 28:19 more than a mandate. Let’s make it a lifestyle. In the face of controversy and uncertainty, let’s show the world where we stand and in whom our faith lies. Let’s brand our faith and let our lights shine being the difference that were so longing to see in our world. So if you’re ready, join Believers should be intentional when it me right here once a month with M.E.X. comes to infiltrating world systems as Magazine and lets corporately Brand Our relevant, tangible examples of our faith in Faith, effectively confirming and commuaction in every area of the market place. nicating his credibility while motivating those around us to connect with him until By way of this gracious invitation extended the day he returns. to me through M.E.X. Magazine, readers can expect to gain monthly tools to do just that from both a spiritual and business

About The Author:

Steven L. Jones is co-founder and CEO of VGS&L Entertainment, a company who represents urban and mainstream clientele and brands alike, helping to identify the best ways of increasing brand visibility on a global scale through a series of integrated marketing and branding strategies. After graduating from college in 2003 with degrees in both Communication and Business administration, Steven and three fellow Ohio State University Alumni formed an entertainment company (VGS&L). Launching their first event in September of 2004, the company went on to plan, execute, market, brand and produce their own successful events reaching hundreds of thousands from the mid-west and united states at large. Jones built a fast reputation as a creative mind and credible interface

between ma jor brands and targeted brand initiatives, spearheading ma jor campaigns and brokering deals with the likes or Coca-Cola, South West Airlines and L’Oreal at the very inception of his career. Under his direction, the company began working with personalities in the entertainment industry as full time clientele, cross promoting their respective brands with established corporate brands for maximum exposure. Steven’s past and current clientele include Colgate, Palm-Olive, L’Oreal, Softsheen Carson, Verizon Wireless, Chrysler Financial, Regina King, Terri J Vaughn, Angie Stone, Sony BMG, Columbia Records, Zomba Label group, BET, ABC Family Channel, as well as Grammy Award winning platinum selling faith based artists Mary Mary, Tye Tribbett, Kierra Sheard of the Legendary Clark Sisters dynasty.

More Info: http://www.vgslentertainment.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/VGSL http://www.twitter.come/IAMSTEVEJONES

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Contributor - Yinka Awojobi

Links http://www.twitter.com/ukgospel http://www.facebook.com/ukgospel http://www.UKGospel.com

Funny how things turn out...

If you’d told me just over a year ago that I’d be on radio presenting a breakfast show on one of the most recognisable Christian radio and media brands in the country I’d have laughed in your face. After I’d slapped you for being ridiculous.

I’d never ‘done’ radio before, and the people I knew in radio made it sound so easy when I listened to them.

I already knew enough to realise that the easier and better radio sounded, the harder the presenter/DJ/ on-air personality and the production team behind them had worked to make it so.

rant yesterday, and as I read her tweets I realised they were a highly invaluable and clever guide to starting your radio (and even your broader media) career.

Anyway, I digress.

It’s lifted pretty much ‘as is’ from her Twitter feed, and - as with content from the Twittersphere – it’s heavily abbreviated. I’ve restructured it so you’ll be reading the flow in the right order.

I really want to talk about my sister-in-law Rhecks, who’s now a radio (as well as a burgeoning TV) personality in Lagos, Nigeria.

Anyone who knows anything about the Nigerian music scene knows it’s arguably the biggest and most influential in Africa, so it’s a rather good look for her.

She presents on The Beat 99 FM, and it looks a pretty solid and – I’m guessing here – popular radio brand in Lagos.

For whatever reason, she went on a bit of a Twitter

If you’re interested in breaking into radio and media, get the notepad out and take some notes.

The truth is there aren’t any hard-and-fast rules about these things, but what you’re about to read is a great career-start-up guide...

Prepare for the grind. Take a sip – in fact, take several huge mouthfuls - of reality water Rhecks is pumping out, then go make your career happen!

See you on the airwaves!

16 Tweets to guide your radio (and media) career…

Even if u r not thinking it, they most certainly r: ‘what’s in it 4me?’. Sum “friends” only need u 4 their next single/album/movie/product launch

Tweet 1. People who wanna get into radio, don’t do

Regardless how many times/forms of it u hear, nothing will ever sufficiently prepare u 4d day when it finally hits. & believe me, it will

Tweet 2 - 5. Some DJs/show anchors have things they do to help time pass by. Some have a full time job & life besides radio. You shouldn’t (?) rely on

And suddenly you’ll look @ every1 differently from there on. Sad, but true. Then there’s d issue of getn paid2 put ur brand (4u as an OAP R a brand)

Radio 2keep ur bread buttered. U gotta b resourceful.

Check d stats, working as an ‘on air personality’ (OAP) or whatever u call it is seen as one of the most

behind something: a hype, voice over, MCing an event, making an appearance @ a new club. Whatever it is, be prepared 2 work 4free. People

it coz u think it’s guaranteed payday, fame and fortune. Do it the love of info or music or whatever else

don’t look @ it like it’s ur livelihood. If u think about it, artists complain all d time about d entertainment industry being [insert bleep here]. Wot do u think it’s like for niche groups within d entertainment industry?

Tweet 14 - 16: There is ZERO structure in radio

for presenters and a lot is left to the MD/GM/program director’s discretion. FACT: the people wit real pay Work behind the scenes. On an ‘on-air-personality’ who’s flossing is either doing it via family or friends or barter arrangement or has a stake behind the scenes.

So, there you have it. Odd Twitter spacing notwithstanding, most of what Rhecks describes here is the kind of work you need to put in.

lonely and depressing jobs there is. The world over.

Most radio people are on drugs, alcoholics, clinically depressed or getting through with serious meditation when medication stops working. Keeping urself grounded isn’t just about u (not) believing ur own hype.

Tweet 6: That said, with a microphone comes great power. Use it wisely. If u wanna b d funny chap on radio, always b professional even in ur clowning

Tweet 7 - 13: B careful who u step on as u try2 corner ur own market. B careful of people who will claim to be your friends: artists, actors, marketers...

Ultimately remember why you do what you do. If you’re fortunate enough to be in Christian media, or in a choir, or in some kind of Christian service and you perhaps feel a little bit undervalued, think about this: you’re doing it for a cause much bigger than yourself.

Sometimes you’ll do stuff to progress other peoples’ causes and agendas. Sometimes people will try to take advantage of you. Yep, Christians occasionally do that too.

Do other things. Diversify. I run UKGospel.com, UKGShop.com work at Premier Gospel and I’m hugely privileged to write for M.E.X. If I’m having a bad day at one office, there’s usually something from any one of the other projects to lift me up.

And finally: be happy to serve. Let God take care of the rest.

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artin Smith – one of the leading voices in the modern worship movement – shares his story, his insight and his challenge for each of us to change the world.

Having spent almost two decades leading one of the most innovative worship bands around, Martin Smith has now authored a new book that reveals the true story behind his remarkable journey.

In Delirious: My Journey with the Band, A Growing Family and an Army of History Makers Martin explains how his childhood brought up in a Brethren family shaped his faith, how academic failure moulded his character and how a week spent engineering in a studio with Sir Paul McCartney offered an inspirational start to a career in the music business. From the near-fatal car crash that preempted the birth of Delirious, to the early days of the band as they released overtly-worshipful songs into the mainstream charts, Martin is honest, frank and engaging.

He describes the thrill of sharing a stage with the likes of Bon Jovi and Bryan Adams, as well as seeing God perform incredible miracles during their concerts. And Martin is open about the mistakes he made along the way.

Writing in the foreword, Matt Redman comments:

“Over the years, Martin has been a mentor to many, near and far. And in this book he will likely do the same for you. The message here is loud and clear—just like the music always was. Martin points us to Jesus and reminds us that when we find ourselves jumping into His Story, it’s just possible we might make some history together.”

Some of the most poignant passages appear as Martin describes the impact of engaging with extreme poverty first hand, particularly in Mumbai, India, visiting a project supported by Joyce Meyer.

It was there he met Farin, a young girl who could easily have ended up following her own mother into prostitution. In time that one

meeting led to the creation of CompassionArt - the charity established by Martin and his wife Anna to help encourage artists to use their creative talents to benefit the poor.

Closing with a series of insightful and timely reflections on the current state of play of the worship scene, Martin leaves readers intrigued and inspired.

Delirious: My Journey with the Band, A Growing Family and an Army of History Makers was written with Craig Borlase, a copywriter who worked with Martin and Delirious throughout their career, as well as with the team of musicians and songwriters behind The Art of Compassion (Hodder, 2008), the companion book to the CompassionArt album.

As the wife of Delirious frontman Martin Smith and mother to their six children, Anna Smith is used to a life made up of paradoxes. From near-fatal car crashes that prove to be the start of great new adventures, to the collision of the mundane realities of childcare with the implications of being married to a man who travels the world and captivates crowds of tens of thousands from the stage.

Life, it seems, is a little more complicated than it first appears. And so this is a book debut that deserves to be read, savoured and shared. Anna Smith writes with clarity, humour and the same manner of kitchentable warmth and honesty that is on offer to all who join in the fun at the Smith open house.

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From childbirth to the place of faith within a family, from packing tips for foreign trips to the launch of a new charity, Anna shares it all. And she movingly relates the loss of their fifth child when she miscarried while on a transatlantic flight, moving from the pain of the experience to the strength gained from her extended family. Meet Mrs Smith is an open invitation to all.

Writing in her foreword, Darlene Zschech reveals her own insight into Anna’s journey:

“We have cried through the loss of a child through miscarriage; we have dreamed together aboutwhat we could do to help relieve human suffering; I have met her on my doorstep as she has travelled with six tired children and one dreamy husband across the oceans to come to Australia; we have worshipped and prayed and spoken about the love of Christ till the sun came up. And through it all she has never wavered in her commitment to Christ, her children, her marriage, her family and friends, her church, and her local community ... and as

she has been faithful, my family and I have watched in awe and delight as God continues to trust her with more.”

The biggest paradox of all is this: Meet Mrs Smith is an intensely personal account of life behind the stage, but it is also universally relevant to all parents sharing Anna’s desire for a bolder adventure with God that cherishes the children He has given.

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As Christian’s, we don’t talk about atheism. In fact many of us seem some-what scared of Atheist’s because they seem to know more about our faith than us or are more convicted about the belief... Or non-belief than we are...

So; what is Atheism anyway? Simply put, it’s a rejection or opposition to the belief that deities (whether that be Jesus, Allah, Buddah etc) exist. They believe there is no God, supreme being or ‘man upstairs’ The world is watching us and if they see that we’re not convicted by our faith or don’t take the Bible seriously (by following God’s instructions on how to live and issues with sin etc) it’s unlikely that they’ll take us or God seriously.

We recently came across a powerful, challenging and inspiring video titled ‘An Interview With An Atheist’ and were immeadiately challenged to share this video with you all and encourage you in your walk with Christ and

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to take our faith seriously. Not just that though but also be more inspired to be a witness and evangelise aiming to encourage family, friends and even strangers to have a personal relationship with God.

READ M.E.X ISSUE 1 HERE

READ M.E.X ISSUE 2 HERE

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We’ve always looked at people who do backing vocals for different artist’s...

Especially those who can really SING and thought “Why don’t they release their own music”. Well, we were pleasantly surprised to find out that one of the most recognisable voices from New Breed (Israel & New Breed) is releasing his own music. The person we’re talking about is Daniel Johnson.

Continued >>>

Daniel grew up in Compton (L.A), a place that we’ve always seen (as portrayed in movies and music) to be really rough and full of criminal activity. Even in that kind of environment, Daniel still managed to have a fun child-hood and made memories that would last a life-time.

“Dude....., you’re Israel Houghton!” LOL. He said.., “yeah”.

“One of my favorite memories growing up in LA has got to be playing outside with all my friends, in Compton. A bit of a rough neighbourhood back then but we would turn on the sprinklers in the front yard and run through them. Playing “Hide-andgo-seek” was always a blast with about 20-30 kids as well. Back then, I wasn’t focused on music or anything other than being a kid.”

Growing up making mischief and having fun seemed to be high on the list of priorities for the young Daniel Johnson. Spending time with family and doing what most “church kid’s” love to do after a Sunday service...

“Growing up In Los Angeles was great. My family on my dads side are all there and I had a bunch of cousins to play with. When my family and I got together at my Grandmothers house, all the cousins would get together in the back den and re-enact the Sunday service. Someone had to be the pastor, choir, choir director, praise leader and someone had to lead devotion. Funny thing...... today, each of one of us is doing one or all of these things today. We were training ourselves and didn’t even know it.”

Daniel like many other musicians and singers got on his own musical journey through going to Church and being involved in the children’s choir. It’s normally there where you find where you strong points are or where your passion lies whether that be in singing or playing an instrument or not. For Daniel though the children’s would provide the platform for him to gain a love for singing and also experience God in a way that he would never forget.

“I’m not quite sure how old I was when I had my first musical experience but I do remember singing in the children’s choir at my church, for a concert we put on. One of the songs we sang was recorded by Thomas Whitfield & Co. The vamp said, “I’m going to put on my robe, tell the story how I made it over”..... “sooon as, I get Home”! I remember being on the back row crying when we got to that vamp. Not sure if it was because it was such a beautiful melody or because I was expe-

riencing God at that moment.”

We all have people that we look up to in the different things we do whether it be music, art, sports or technology. People we pattern ourselves after or use as a guide to get to where we’re trying to get to.

“My biggest musical influence as a child was Andrae Crouch. I can remember waking up on Saturday mornings to bacon, eggs, biscuits, sausage, grits, Shirley Cesar, The Mighty Clouds of Joy and Andrae’ Crouch. These artists were my mother and father’s favorite. Andrae Crouch had such a fresh sound. I loved his musical arrangements

and his background vocals.

I wasn’t old enough yet to appreciate the message and lyrics in his music just yet.”

Who would have thought that a child-hood spent watching Andrae Crouch and being heavily influenced by him and his music would have lead to him eventually singing for the Gospel music legend.

“I got the opportunity to work with Pastor Andrae Crouch while singing at my church then, Light of the World C.O.G.I.C. There was a guy who cam to visit my church and heard me.

He later wanted to manage me and after talking it over with my parents, we

M.E.X MAGAZINE | ISSUE 3 all agreed. My manager knew Pastor Crouch and took me to his church one Sunday morning.

After the service and after all of the congregation was gone, we went up to the stage where Pastor Crouch was and I sang something for him. He played the piano for me. That in itself was an Awe moment! I couldn’t believe I was in the presence of someone I admired for years! A few months went by and I received a call from Pastor Andrae. He called to ask me if I would consider going to Chicago with him. And of course, I was thinking, “Are You Kidding”... YEAH MAN!!”

was for Israel. Linda McCrary, the vocal director for Andrae, called and asked If I was available to do a session for Tommy Simms, the producer for this particular Israel record. Israel’s name wasn’t mentioned.

At only 16 he was singing with Andrae Crouch going up and down the country living out a lifestyle that many established artist’s would have loved because of the awesome gift Andrae Crouch has and how much can be learned from him. So for him to pick out Daniel and see potential in him and see a way of sitrring up the gift in him was something quite special for Daniel.

I get to the vocal session and Israel -didn’t know it was him- began teaching a song. In my mind I’m thinking, “this dude sounds familiar”. We recorded that song, then went into the recording room to learn the next song.

Again, Israel began teaching the next song and I interrupted him by saying.... “Dude....., you’re Israel Houghton!” LoL. He said.., “yeah”.

“Apparently, Pastor Crouch saw something in me I didn’t see in myself yet. I’m forever grateful to him for taking a chance on me.

He didn’t have to. I mean, here he was with a group of professional singers known for their piercing, katty, BIG, and whatever other sound you needed them to produce, “The Disciples”, and he wanted to invite me in. WOW!”

Well, after that he saw how I worked with the other singers and he too saw something in me I didn’t see in myself yet. He approached me and said, “Man.., what will it take for you to come out on the road with my group, New Breed?” And I said, “Just let me know when and where... and I’m there”. That was 9 years ago.

And I’ve been with Andrae’ Crouch for 15 years.”

That’s an awesome opportunity for anyone but at such a young age it’s hard to believe that he never thought about doing anything else career-wise or never had any other dreams or career aspirations.

“I love architecture and really wanted to pursue a career in it. I also thought about going to the Air Force right out of high school.

Even after travelling with Andrae Crouch a few times. I guess I wasn’t sure how long it would last.”

Well it did last and also lead on the opportunity where most of heard “the guy that sings with Israel & New Breed with the amazing voice” as most people we know describe him. After singing with Andrae Crouch we wanted to know how he transitioned to being a prominent figure in New Breed.

“I was introduced to Israel at a vocal session for his record. At the time I didn’t know the session

Now four months before this session, a member of my church handed me Israel & New Breeds “New Season” record. It stayed in my CD player in my car for the full four months. The cover of the first New Season record didn’t have a photo of Israel or New Breed on it. So, I didn’t know what Israel looked like.

What an awesome experience.

God used one open door to open another and because of all of that we’re here today excited about the progress Daniel and his music are making and how he’s stepping out form behind the scene’s and stepping into the spotlight.

As a worship leader in his own church it must have been a natural progression for him to pick up on the leadership skills and practical worship leading tips as well as Spiritual insights from Andrae Crouch and Israel Houghton amongst the many others he has sung with and apply them in his church.

“It’s crazy because the way it should work is.., you take the things you’ve learned from home, out on the road with you. But for me, it was the other way around.

On the road, I learned how to serve. A leader SHOULD know this. I’m a much better leader because of the way I try and

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meet the needs of everyone I’m leading.

“What can I do for YOU”. It shouldn’t always be what should the volunteer do for the leader.

The strength we as leader’s have should always be for service, NOT status. “To whom much is given, Much is required”. When you’ve reached a leadership position, it’s not “chill time”.

As a matter of fact, it’s the opposite. I believe that when this is understood and practiced, it will become applicable. Serving someone who’s under you in a way that will eventually enable them to do what you do and maybe even take your place, can be hard. But Leaders are responsible for pouring into and empowering those they lead. Push them! Encourage them! Stretch them! Pray for them!

That is the evidence of good leadership and lessons well learned. You can tell good leadership when you look at those who they’ve led and see that a deposit or investment has been made into their lives and there’s a genuine desire to see those they lead do well and even surpass them.

We’ve been to a few Israel Houghton concerts (when he’s visited the UK) now and each time there’s been memorable moments. One of then was when the concert stopped and for somewhere between 30-45 mins the building was full of thousands of people giving a free praise to God including Israel and the whole of New Breed. The presence of God was so tangible at that moment and people were giving their lives to the Lord left right and centre.

With that said, being on the road with Israel & New Breed for 9 years must have created many of those kinds of experiences for Daniel.

“Ha! Wow! Sooooooo many. One memorable moment was about 5-6 years ago. We were doing a concert in San Antonio, TX and the team - band, singers, management- took early flights up that morning. Well, Israel had something else to take care of and was taking a later flight from Houston. The weather got really bad and they cancelled his flight!

So, he and an assistant decided to drive up. Doing this will get them into San Antonio about 30 minutes to an hour after the concerts start time. But, there

Continued >>>

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was no other option. As the start time for the concert approached, our band director looked at me and said... “well Daniel, It’s on You”!!! Huh?... I said.

This would be my first time leading out New Breed and I was Sooooo nervous. We began the concert and It was going great! We were maybe singing for about 30 minutes. We started singing “I’m going to Another Level”. We begin like the record with the OOOOoooos and right before we got to where Israel comes in on the record, The front doors of the church FLY open!! Here comes Israel running down the isle and I toss the mic to him just in time for him to sing the intro to the chorus..... “Iiiiiiiimmmm, going-to- another level”!!! The audience went CRAZY!!!

LOL. It looked planned but we ALL new it was just perfect timing. Great night.”

What an experience... It would have been awesome to be there and experience it all. As a member of the crowd it must have been awesome but as a member of the group the nerves must have been immense.

Being on the road for so much of the time does bring it’s challenges though and many different people struggle with different aspects of a life of touring. For Daniel that was his first ministry and balancing that with his music ministry.

“From the start till now I would say that the biggest challenge in my journey would be trying to balance family and ministry. I had to learn that my family is my first ministry. There were times when I wanted my wife to understand that I had to pay bills with the money I was making with my music. It took some time but I’m understanding the juggle. It’s a beautiful thing when it’s done right.”

Now, for our readers who don’t know... Daniel has finally embarked on what many of us have wanted him to do. He’s released his first single of his upcoming album. The single is titled ‘You Make Me’ and is a very chilled, soulful track that instantly puts you in a good mood.

“I actually wrote ‘You Make Me’ about six years ago.

There is a lyric in the first verse that says.... “it’s like You popped up out of the blue”. To me this lyric says that God will always be a mystery. New things about him discovered every day!

That’s exciting to me!”

That is a very exciting and something that we often forget. We’re forever trying to figure God out when we were never made to do that.

“With ‘You Make Me’, my hope is that people will simply smile while listening to it.

I chose this song as the single because of the chorus and the groove. Very encouraging hook. While all the serious, deep and lawful things of God are being taught and sang, with this, I want to remind people about the “Happy God” who IS!” Well, Daniel achieved his goal because just listening to the song allows us to experience the joy of the Lord and listen to some encouraging, uplifting and inspiring music.

Starting off with a soulful single isn’t what most would have expected for Daniel. Many would probably have expected something more along the lines of Praise & Worship but it’s always amazing to hear

an artist do something different and something they have a passion for.

“This record is more of a ‘Soul’ record. I love the Praise & Worship genre and will do a record in this genre in a few years. My father played the guitar and sang quartet. He was the soprano in the group, hitting those high falsetto notes. I wanted to sing like him and with this record I finally have to opportunity to showcase this style. I love the grooves and feel of artist such as D’Angelo, Earth Wind & Fire and Al Green. With these artists in mind, I tried to create not an exact but somewhat, of a vibe. As far as the lyrical content goes, it’s all positive. Good ole simple God talk! Lol. Nothing deep. Nothing all “extra”. Some life experiences, some story telling..., all real.”

For those of you that don’t know; Daniel head’s up New Breed. New Breed have already done two GREAT albums that we love and play all the time.

‘Freedom’ and also ‘Kingdom’. Both are albums where they sing they’re favourite worship songs but with a New Breed twist. New Breed also do concerts too without Israel Houghton being the front-man.

No need to worry though, Israel & New Breed are still a tight knitted unit.

“Man! Such a beautiful group of worship leaders to lead. We have a project that was released last year named ‘Generation: Love’. It’s going well. This project has a bit of a different feel from Israel & New Breeds projects. Myself and Arthur “Buddy” Strong produced it. Israel & New Breed & New Breed aren’t really two different groups. We have the same rules, accountability and management. Israel just decided to “stretch” us. What an awesome leader. When New Breed goes out, we try our best to represent just as if our leader was on stage with us. We consider it as two separate way’s to cover the earth!”

So, Daniel sings with Andrae Crouch, Israel & New Breed, is a worship leader in his own church, heads up New Breed (when they minister without Israel and do their own projects) and is now launching out as an artist in his own right. We’re all excited about this and eager to find out what the rest of 2011 holds for this busy man of God. “Well, I’m really trying to push this record ‘You Make Me’. So, hopefully you can catch me in a city near you. I am the label so I’m trying to make as much noise about the record as I possible can. I’ll still be leading worship at my church and going out with Andrae Crouch and Israel & New Breed as often as I can. I’m believing God for whatever he has for me this year.”

“I really Love and appreciate my wife Jasmine and two beautiful children, Xamarion and Layla for allowing me to juggle them and my other ministry.

For those of you looking to do music full time, follow God. Forget trying to write the next hit song. Try and write the next God song. Be encouraged.”

DJ.

Links www.twitter.com/danieljlive http://www.facebook.com/pages/Daniel-Johnson-Artist/166175436766222?sk=info http://www.danieljohnsonlive.com

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Contributor - Jennifer Perry

Links http://twitter.com/missjrperry http://alifecalledlove.tumblr.com/

Do you remember the programme Wizadora? Or if not, maybe Casper the friendly ghost? Ghost Busters? And then if not these kid’s show of course you’ll remember Blind Date! The thing is, I don’t. Growing up under the careful wings of two Christian parents, these are a few shows I remember hearing about, but never being allowed to actually watch. If you were raised in a similar situation, your childhood is probably not far from mine, and you know too well having to change the channel during ‘bad’ scenes and not even dreaming of watching MTV Base.

I’ll admit to you that it was embarrassing not being allowed to watch the shows my friends were growing up on. I felt left out, and many times I’d just pretend I did watch the shows, just to join in. But it wasn’t all bad; what this created in me from an early age was a standard. I was always taught to be careful what you watch, listen to and read. Growing up, in my more recent years, I’ve naturally become more desensitized; our TVs, radios and computers are overloaded with explicit, ungodly information which seeps through our eyes and ears, affecting our spirits, but thankfully my strong upbringing has taught me to skip scenes, or maybe in more difficult situations just look away.

So bringing this into today’s world; I was recently faced with a challenge. I’m sitting in a compulsory Creative Writing feedback session, we’re all reading extracts from our working stories in turn and the guy next to me begins to tell an explicit depiction of a lesbian relationship. Some might say I’m naïve, over-dramatic or perhaps I’m too stuck in a bubble, but my heart began to thump as I felt more and more uncomfortable in that room. I looked around at my classmates’ faces and they laughed, smiled and were completely captivated by the very thing that was horrifying me. I battled with the words that were flowing into my ears, praying desperately against the images forming in my mind. I’m not exaggerating; this stuff was explicit and went on for at least five minutes.

I go to a University in the real world, and I know this. People swear in poems, write stories about violence, rapists, sex and get a kick out of creating controversial work.

But as a Christian, where do I draw the line?

Would it be weak to have just walked out of that room and returned later? Would that have represented an over-churched girl who can’t handle real life? Or is it just in the same way I wouldn’t watch the scene on television, I shouldn’t be sitting in a room where it’s being read to me?

Overwhelmed with questions, I began to pray it through, got some good advice, but ended up in the same place; confused.

There’s a number of different arguments to my situation. Perhaps, you’re reading this and thinking I need to stand out and not sit in the midst of something which is so wrong on so many levels, maybe you’d have been bold enough to simply walk out.

Or are you dwelling on the fact that our King Jesus, when on earth, sat and ate “with many tax collectors and other disreputable sinners”. Let’s put this into perspective; they weren’t sitting around talking about how great their walks with God were going, Jesus sat with them and probably heard all sorts, yet he endured it and loved them.

Some would argue that if we really want people to listen to our own voice, we have to listen to theirs, as uncomfortable as it can sometimes be.

As for me; God’s still speaking. I’m awaiting my next directions from Him. Part of me thinks I might need to toughen up and be firm in next week’s seminar, but the other side is day-dreaming of a crazy boycott where I speak out and tell them exactly why I can’t stay!

Some people say Christianity is too vague, there’s not enough set rules and I struggled with knowing there’s so many different denominations and doctrines, despite us serving the same God. But I’m now beginning to see this as beautiful. God wants a personal relationship with us, which means what’s good for you, might be bad for me, and vice versa. It’s amazingly exciting and I’d like to encourage you to draw closer to Him each day; seeking out your balance of how to be in the world and not of it, I know He’ll teach you personally and give you answers in exactly the same beautifully personal way He’s doing for me. ;)

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ashville recording artist, songwriter, worship leader and speaker Laura Kaczor released her new album ‘Love Enough’ in 2010 through Universal Music Christian Group/Fontana distribution on LifeThirst Records/IE. She’s an artist that is creating a buzz within Christian music becoming a name well known to radio with her song ‘Invisible’ currently at #9 on the national Christian Music Weekly Worship Chart. Her journey didn’t begin with record contracts and radio success though but interestingly enough, through tap dancing.

“I was small – probably in 3rd grade or so. It’s actually a funny story! My best friend’s great aunt was a tap dancing instructor in Philadelphia in the 1940s, and when we were kids (she was in her late-60s), she taught us dance lessons in her basement! Every summer we had a recital in her garage, and she liked to incorporate music, so she encouraged us to sing. That was the first time I actually sang in public, and my parents saw I had some natural ability…”

It’s amazing how the simple little things we do as children allow our parents (who are our life guides) to see the potential within us and do something about... Literally taking on the scripture of Proverbs 22:6 “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Laura’s parents took the gift they saw seriously and invested in her.

“I enjoyed listening to music and was probably subconsciously influenced by various musical styles… but I was most influenced by my choir teachers and eventually my voice teacher, Susan Dash, who I’ve been studying with since I was 13.”

Even as a young person in high school Laura was involved within the creative arts taking an active role with the school activities helping her hone her skills and exemplifying the passion and desire that you see in those who have a desire to be successful. Of course that didn’t come easy and with a lot of children in high school there were

issues too.

“I actually really enjoyed High School.

I was a very serious student, so my primary concern was excelling academically. And I was also extremely involved with the Arts – both music and drama.

Loved it! Being in plays, musicals, and concerts really defined my high school experience, and formed so tremendous and lasting friendships. But High School was not always easy! Socially, I faced the same challenges I’m sure many of your readers face! - Struggles with self-image, being “popular,” and even struggles about my future, trying to determine what my purpose was.”

On her website Laura spoke of a “life changing encounter with the Lord through worship” in her senior year of high school. An experience that led to all we see now in Laura’s life and the ministries she represents.

“I was at Creation Festival – a huge Christian music festival held annually in Pennsylvania. My youth group organized the trip, and at the time, I

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had never really experienced any concentrated amounts of modern worship. I met God in those moments, very intimately, and I experienced how worship (through music – my passion!) can bring people closer to the heart of God. It was absolutely transformative, and I decided then that I wanted to use my gifts to serve God and to bring others close to Him, the way I experienced it.”

It’s always a great thing when you find your calling or it’s confirmed and God wants you to use what you’re passionate about to bring people to know Him and have encounters with Him. It’s one thing to have a ministry and know that you’re called

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to be a blessing in your church or local area but how does a young lady who started off tap dancing with a friends great aunt end up with such great success. How did she go about breaking into the music industry?

“I don’t know if there was ever one moment of breaking in… it’s been more like a slow and steady chipping away! Everything has been a learning lesson. The first album. The second album. Radio promotion. My Mom is essentially my manager at this point, and she has been the greatest asset to this ministry and my greatest cheerleader! I wouldn’t be where I am without her tireless efforts on my behalf.”

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It’s great to see such humility and a down to earth attitude and also the realisation that success for most people doesn’t happen overnight but with hard work and also learning how to balance the business with the ministry. They’re 2 very different things but are very important to the effectiveness of each other.

“First and foremost, it’s about ministry. That should be the only motivator. However, it takes business acumen to keep a ministry going… so you have to view money (or the business side of it) as a means to an end, but not the end. That’s where the need for balance comes in. In the end, it’s all about heart motive, and in an industry where all kinds of idols can creep in to steal your initial vision and your initial purpose, you have to always stay on guard, always check your motives, and pray pray pray!”

It can be quite easy for artist’s to want to minister so badly and reach souls for Christ that the business side of things isn’t taken care of. It can also be easy to just think about the money you can make but as Laura says you have to continually check your motives.

One thing we’ve noticed about Laura is how much she loves to give to those around her... She gives of her time, resources and life experiences to help others progress in life and in ministry. She speaks of checking her motives but the way she leads her life shows us that her statement “First and foremost, it’s about ministry,” is true.

“It’s what it’s all about. That’s the reason that I sing at all. To help people, to minister to them, and to help them understand the heart of God towards them. I believe that God allows us to get wisdom from our past experiences specifically for the purpose of pouring that wisdom into other people’s lives.”

One way that Laura does this is through her ministry called ‘LifeThirst’.

“LifeThirst is a concert/conference, worship, evangelism, teaching ministry that my husband and I started to incorporate our love of music and our heart for young people. Music is a great disarmer – everyone loves music, especially young people. So if you can create an atmosphere of fun, where people can experience awesome music and worship… it creates a great platform to deliver solid Biblical teaching and the gospel.”

Through ‘LifeThirst’ Laura has seen a great impact in the lives of those who’ve attended. Souls saved, lives changed and the opportunity to travel around the country doing something practical to impact the lives of all those who attend.

It’s a great unifier. There are no denominational affiliations, so it’s brought together youth and young adults from many different walks. In the 5 events we’ve done so far, we’ve seen over 100 people come to Christ or recommit. It’s been powerful, and we hope to bring ‘LifeThirst’ across the US and abroad. In the most recent one held at Valley Forge Christian College, Jan. 30, it united and involved the students and especially the youth ministry students for an outreach to the youth and young adults in the community. They were so excited to be used! Their band and drama team participated and youth ministry students volunteered. We had almost 800 attend and there was such a response! About 10 teens accepted Christ for the first time and more than 50 students were at the altar for prayer and re-commitment. It was like a revival on the college campus and it was a huge witness to the teens in youth groups! We are going to go back next year and the Lord is opening doors for a ‘LifeThirst’ college tour throughout the country. (See last section for ‘LifeThirst’ comments from students.)

Another way Laura gives back is through “Lift Up U”niversity Girl’s/ Women’s conferences which is based on Leviticus 26:13, God being the lifter of our heads. Laura is a full time recording artist so having time to do ‘LifeThirst’ was impressive but to also have a ministry

dedicated at impacting the lives of women is great and just proves that no matter how busy you are, if you have a giving heart you’ll always find time to give.

“It seemed like a natural extension of what we were doing with ‘LifeThirst’. As a woman, I have a natural inclination to help other young ladies as they are discovering their place in this world. It’s a difficult journey, it can be so bitter-sweet, and I wanted to be able to share my experiences and the things that God has taught me over the years. I want them to know His heart is for them, not against them, and that their beauty and worth is not determined by the things we see in the natural world – but by Him.” This is an awesome message and one that we see being ‘preached’ by many different women all over the world... Why? Because it’s a message that is very much needed in a time where lot’s of women feel inadequate because of what they see through the media or because of past experiences.

Doing all of these things and having a giving heart doesn’t make all Laura does any easier to do though and she like all of us from time to time still feels like stopping sometimes but thank God she hasn’t given in yet.

“It’s not an easy road, as I’m sure most artists would tell you! And when it is difficult, it can be hard not to just want to throw in the towel. But God is good, and so gracious, and He has always encouraged me to keep pushing forward.”

Laura’s album ‘Love Enough’ is doing really well in the radio charts right now and this album is really establishing her in the industry but there’s a deeper reason for the album than radio/chart success...

Laura clearly had something she wanted to say and a message about love that she wanted us all to hear. “‘Love Enough’ is all about grace, and I think that’s a good way to describe where I’m at, at this point in my life. Experiencing the miracle of grace! That I don’t have to be good enough, or accomplish a certain goal, to have worth in His eyes. He loves me for me, unconditionally, and loved me enough to send His own Son to die on the cross.”

There’s more to it than that though... Laura continued to share the message she hopes will resonate in the hearts of everyone who hears ‘Love Enough’.

“I really want people to know that God loves us enough to find us wherever we are, heal our deepest wounds, give us the gift of salvation, and bring us into a relationship with Him!” After listening to ‘Love Enough’ we can say that we’ve heard this message in her music. Laura has many plans for 2011 and is working hard to make sure that her ministry reaches as many people as possible.

“I am going to release two more singles off of the ‘Love Enough’ album to Christian radio. My next release will be “Alive In You”, April 1st and I’m looking to film and release a music video before Summer 2011. I’m also in the beginning stages of recording another album.

I am excited about concerts and the ‘LifeThirst’ college tour this year and also “Lift Up U” girls conferences taking off. Other than that, follow me on face book and my website to see where I’ll be singing across the US!” There’s still so much more to look forward to from Laura and she’s determined to go on changing lives and being a practical influence in the lives of others. We can see all over Laura’s life that she’s living the ‘Love Enough’ lifestyle, knowing that God’s love is so amazing and unconditional... The question is; are you living a ‘Love Enough’ lifestyle?

LifeThirst - Facebook Comments (this is why I do what I do) Laura, thank you so much for coming to our area Sunday night for LifeThirst. I can’t even begin to explain what a night like that did for me, and many others I’m sure! There are no words to describe it. Basically God was there.

God shook the very ground we stood on. He made His presence known and it was a beautiful thing to see ♥ Keep spreading His Word and reviving the fire in us all! Janine Truppay, Valley Forge Christian College (VFCC) Lord, thank you for LifeThirst tonight. It was a night in which your power, love and grace were so evident! My yearning for prayer was as strong as it was at Passion! You broke so many people, and you lifted them up. You humbled them, and you showed them compassion. You are more than words can describe. {Ephesians 3:20-21} - Janine Truppay, VFCC LifeThirst was a breakthrough that I have desperately needed in my life... I want to be a youth pastor and for a while I was running from that call... words cannot express my thanks....Laura, I feel like you stole my diary by the way... your lyrics wrecked me.... thank you!!! – Nicole Berkibile, VFCC Laura, what a great evening!!! The special music from you and Jonny Diaz was great! The lyrics you both sang came from the heart. But add the Praise and Worship to it = amazing. I sat in the back due to having a friend in a wheel chair. It was great though because I could see everyone in front of me. And YES, God WAS moving. At one point during worship, I looked over and saw a college student on his hands and knees just praying out to God!! I could sense his outpouring. It brought tears to my eyes because I saw God moving in such a powerful way. Thanks for the wonderful evening!! And keep sharing until the whole world hears!! - Christina Adams I was so blessed by you and your music at the LifeThirst Conference at VFCC! You are so talented and God used you in mighty ways! Thank you!! - Gina Stein, VFCC You did a fantastic Job at Lifethirst. I know your music touched many lives. You’re such a wonderful woman of God! I am so blessed by you! Thank you!! - Tabitha Johnson, VFCC LifeThirst was awesome! Thank you so much for sharing your music with us Laura! You have such a beautiful voice, and are so beautiful inside and out! God bless you! I especially loved “Invisible!” - Becky Moyer, VFCC Get your FREE download of Invisible on http://www.laurakaczor.com/store – You can also listen to it on our music player.

Links http://www.facebook.com/LauraKaczorMusic http://www.laurakaczor.com/store http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/love-enough/ id365799831

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‘Why is everybody so obsessed? Money can’t buy us happiness…’ (Jessie J, ‘Price Tag’) How do we live out God’s kingdom come, on earth as it is in heaven? God has created us a material playground to live in, we can’t get away from that. The Bible has seven times as many references to money as to prayer, so although we can only scratch the surface of the topic in a tiny article like this, it’s obviously of huge relevance to how we work out God’s kingdom on earth.

Material wealth is a game of relativity.

Conventional economic theory maintained that it was the absolute level of wealth that made us happy, but scientists have proved that it is the relative level of wealth that matters to us most – they say that this means that we find money more rewarding if the people around us are poorer than us. This science explains why despite the fact that westerners are healthier, wealthier and better travelled than 50 years ago, overall we still haven’t got any happier – our absolute wealth has increased but overall our wealth relative to the people around us has stayed about the same.

up the line to the next band with more guitars, more amps and bigger tour vans. You might be looking at the guy at college with the new iPhone, or the girl with a new Topshop outfit every week. For people who own houses, there’s always a bigger, better property to own. And it keeps going, up and up the chain, until you hit the footballers like Rooney being paid £6 million a year, who’ve got their eyes on Ronaldo (£11 million a year), musicians like Lady Gaga (£62 million a year) chasing down Beyonce (£87 million a year) and the business millionaires, who are wondering how they can get on next year’s Forbes billionaires list.

If we constantly feel like we don’t have enough, it’s because we’ve got into the habit of only noticing the people around us who are richer than us or who have something we want. This is the direction that most of us are conditioned to face from birth: conditioned by advertising, branding, by the music artists rapping about all their dollahs, by the thousands of images across the media of beautiful people dripping in bling and designer clothes.

So what does the richest person in the world do? In the case of close friends Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, who consistently top the Forbes rich list, they turn around. Bill Gates is now pouring all his energy into philanthropy, via the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation, and together with Warren Buffett they’ve set up the Giving Pledge, persuading 40 billionaires to donate half their money to good causes. Because when you turn around and look down the chain, boy does it put things into perspective. See those 925 million people? Yep, that’s how many people cannot access enough food to survive.

See those 900 million people? That’s how many don’t have clean water. See those 2.5 billion people? They’re the ones without basic sanitation.

Imagine it like this: picture every single person in the world lined up in order from the very poorest (materially) to the very richest. Now imagine that every single person is facing looking up the chain at all the people ahead of them who are richer than them. So as a band, we catch ourselves looking

When we think about our wealth and how we relate to others on this line, the only question we really need to ask ourselves as Christians is which way is Jesus facing, and the answer is pretty clear.

Jesus had unfailing compassion for those in material, as well as spiritual need. In God’s kingdom we are all connected, so Jesus tells us ‘whatever you did for the least of my kingdom, you did for me’. (Matthew 25:40) The challenge for us is to turn around now, wherever we’re standing in the line – not to wait until we’re at the top of the Forbes list. Can you imagine a world where every person was facing down the chain and acting upon what they see?

Acts 4:32,34-35 (NIV) All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had... There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need.

Contributor - Ed Bird

Links http://twitter.com/empirenation http://empirenation.net

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Courtney King is the founder and leader of one of the UK’s up and coming praise and worship outfits called Kings Ministries.

First day at school – I remember my first day of primary school,everyone else’s mom just walked them to the gate and said bye, but mine had to walk me all the way to the classroom. “How Embarrassing”

One amazing fact about me is that a lot of people know me to be a worship leader because I lead at the front of Kings Ministries all the time but I am actually a musician first.

I can skillfully play Drums,Keys,Bass and a bit of guitar.

Links http://kingsministriesuk.com http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kings-Ministries/202239118719 http://twitter.com/KingsMinistries

First CD – I feel ashamed to say this but the first ever CD i listened to was Spice Girls as I found it on my cousins desk in her room.

First concert attended – My first concert I went to I will never forget it as it was one that the senior choir of my church was hosting to raise money for the church building fund.

First song written - The first song I wrote was a song called “Use me for your Glory” which is my constant prayer. This song will be released on the upcoming album next year.

First performance – My first performance was at my senior school talent show where me and a couple of the guys from my class performed some Jackson 5 songs such as ‘ABC’ etc ...............guess who I was

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????? The man himself Michael Jackson with the glove and all other accessories.

First job – My first job was at the corner shop by my house stacking shelves,this job lasted for two days as is was seeming to be too much work for a young man like me.

First car – Erm this is an area where God requires me to use what he teaches in Hebrews 11 loooooool which is faith.................Hopefully I pass my test sometime this year.

First holiday – My first proper holiday was at the age of 7 or 8 where my wonderful Grandmother took me on the Holy land experience to Israel,where I visited places Jesus went and others.

First personal experience with God – I have grown up in church all my life but it was not until the day Jesus actually spoke to me Himself when I started to realise who he actually was. So I guess my first personal experience with Jesus was when He spoke to me and I decided I was going to follow him as my personal saviour.

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Kirk Franklin is one of the most well known names in Gospel music. He has toured the world, sold millions of albums and has always pushed the boundaries in Gospel music allowing his music to have a greater appeal to the wider world and people from all walks of life.

Kirk Franklin is an awesome song-writer... The type of song-writer who knows how to tell a story.... Knows how to some-how capture how many of us are feeling and put it to a melody.

He doesn’t just write (what we like to call) ‘life song’s’ though. He’s written some great praise and worship song’s too and even in those he doesn’t just follow a format or write surface level songs. His lyrics are meaningful, deep and instantly connect us to God which is no mean feat.

In just writing this piece, so many song titles are coming to mind. ‘Now Behold The Lamb’, ‘Melodies From Heaven’, ‘Stomp’, ‘Lean On Me’, ‘Hosanna’, ‘Revolution’, ‘Something About The Name Jesus’, ‘My Desire’, ‘My Life Is In Your Hands’, ‘He’ll Take The Pain Away’ and the list goes on and on and on.

Before Kirk came along there wasn’t much Gospel music that appealed to the youth as well as adults. A lot of Gospel music was very traditional (and there’s nothing wrong with that) but as the times and culture changed across the world, Gospel music didn’t really seem to keep up with it... Through that, God used Kirk to start a revolution, one that couldn’t be stopped and is still blazing trails in 2011.

Upon the arrival of Kirk Franklin, the music and the culture of contemporary Christianity got an energy boost that could give Red Bull a run for its money! Injecting a vigorous and youthful excitement to faith-walking, Kirk Franklin made it cool to be Christian, placing Godly messages in the same heavy rotation as other urban pop music.

One thing that is evident for everyone to see about Kirk is his heart. He has and continues to share his heart, soul and even his past with us through his music and testimonies helping the young and old to grow in the LORD and be encouraged to live a right life before God and

not fall for the same things that he fell for. It was big news when he openly confessed to the public about his addiction to pornography and a lot of people tried to use it against him, to discredit him and his ministry but he kept going in the face of adversity. He could have kept his sin a secret and dealt with it privately but by being open (what some would call an open shame) he helped a generation. Many men of all ages could relate to his struggle and by seeing his example of confession, repentance and seeking help, saw fit to do the same.

“These are things that I feel every day.” Said Kirk. “People need honest transparent leadership – leaders who are not afraid to admit, ‘I’m jacked up’ or ‘I made a mistake, only follow me as I follow Christ.’ So it’s important to me that the culture sees that there is a large community of God’s people in entertainment, political and sports arenas striving for a level of Godly excellence that makes The Father happy.”

The Lord has blessed Kirk Franklin to be not only a commercial success – the biggest selling gospel artist in Soundscan history with over12 million albums sold and over 20 1 singles at Gospel radio, plus 5 Grammy Awards; an American Music Award; 34 Stellar Awards (gospel); 12 Dove Awards (CCM); 4 NAACP Awards; 2 BET Music Awards, and a Soul Train Award on his mantle – he is a role model and example to anyone who thinks their life is beyond redemption. To hear his testimony is to hear that of a man who’s risen from the bleakest streets to the highest heights. Deeper still, he understands that the literal fight of his life is a battle done daily.

“For me success is very personal,” said Kirk. The things that are important to many don’t seem important to him. He’s happily married to his wife (15 years and still going) and has raised his children to know and love the Lord.

Just entering into his 4th decade of life, he is still hungry for more of God knowing that he hasn’t ‘made it’ yet or isn’t the perfect man and that God will continue to work on him as he continues his walk with God. “That’s the thinking I choose to keep in close

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contact with in terms of how I define ‘success.’

Says Kirk. “I’ve been working on me - and there’s a lot more work to be done.”

ate through his songs and how he uses the negative things of his past to encourage us with our futures.

When you’re honest with yourself like that, you leave lots of room for God to be God in your life and allow Him to purify you (as He’s the only one who can) instead of trying to do it alone.

It’s great how Kirk lets his testimonies perme-

Kirk has recorded 10 albums from ‘Kirk Franklin & The Family’ all the way to his last album ‘The Fight Of My Life’ which is a great achievement for any artist in any genre of music. We’ve always wondered how he’s managed to keep

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bringing out new music of a consistently high standard and always have something to say, a message, a testimony or even just a praise of thanksgiving to God for what He’s done for him.

easy and I acknowledge there are always obstacles, but like a lot of folks, I get tired of being guided by my emotions. When I have a deeper trust in God, I live my life in stability.”

“When I do albums, I usually feel ‘pregnant’ with ideas. God would give me pieces of a concept - the theme of an album - then songs would be born from that.”

“‘I Am’ is about exchanging all of my weaknesses for God’s strength,” Franklin noted. This song is also about declaring what God says about me and not my situation. As we daily transform to God’s image, we no longer identify with who we were, but who we are becoming.”

There have been times where Kirk describes God as “silent in relation to the creation” of his albums.

“I had singers and musicians flying in ready to work and I wasn’t, which was very costly…and it happened twice! The second time they came, I only had two songs completed: ‘How it Used to Be’ (a song about coming back to Jesus after having been absent awhile) and ‘Hide Me’ (a song of restored faith on which he states, ‘Your delay is not a denial / Your plan is perfect when I’m not’). I was discouraged and depressed. I began to question whether I should do another album, whether I had another one in me... whether I should call McDonald’s to see if they were hiring?!”

This kind of experience can be shared will all types of people, whether it be preacher’s who are struggling to ‘find a word’, someone praying for a break-through in their life and not seeing any sign of it or the novelist who has no inspiration to write. Well, Kirk has been at it again and this time he brings us ‘Hello Fear’... An interesting title and one we’re sure will spark many questions on the thinking behind this album.

‘Hello Fear’ is an innovative musical offering that showcases Franklin’s growth and maturation both creatively and personally, while still boasting his creative genius of combining various styles and genres of music into his own unique, definitively gospel sound. He has teamed again with five of the most sought after vocalists in the music industry—Isaac Carree, Anaysha Figueroa, Nikki Ross, Charmaine Swimpson and Eric Moore—to create the inimitable harmonies for which his music is known.

The result is a Kirk Franklin masterpiece. ‘Hello Fear’ is produced by Franklin and co-produced

by Shaun “Harold” Martin and executive produced by Kirk Franklin, Jazzy Jordan, Jessie Hurst and Carla Williams.

‘Hello Fear’ also includes the infectious ‘Give Me,’ featuring dynamic newcomer Mali Music; ‘The Altar,’ a powerful traditional song, featuring Marvin Sapp and Beverly Crawford; and ‘Something About The Name Jesus (part 2),’ featuring Rance Allen, John P.Kee and Marvin Winans. This 13 track tour de force will again raise the standard of 21st century contemporary gospel music.

“I titled this album ‘Hello Fear’ because—with everything going on in the world—it is the word and the feeling, that paralyzes all of us on some level right now,” said Franklin. “In my own life, fear has been a shadow that has followed me since I was a child. But the season of running from it is over. I am turning around and speaking directly to it. This album is full of personal and painful work that invites the listener to join me on the journey of letting this familiar ‘friend’ know that his time is over.”

“Over the years, I’ve had the unique opportunity of watching Kirk produce some of his albums,” said Jazzy Jordan, Executive Vice President/General Manager of Verity Gospel Music Group. “I am always amazed at the finished product. Kirk’s music gets better and better. He is masterful, and always delivers a project full of hit songs. Hello Fear is both timely and timeless. It’s an honor to work with him. He’s a brilliant producer and artist. His fans will love this album.”

Two singles from ‘Hello Fear’ have been released simultaneously, and they are among the top songs added at gospel and urban adult contemporary radio this week. ‘I Smile’ is #1 Most Added at Gospel Radio and #2 Most Added at Urban Adult Contemporary Radio. “I Am” is #2 most added at Gospel Radio.

On March 19, Franklin joined Steve Harvey at the Philips Arena Theater in Atlanta for the first stop on the ‘Steve Harvey and Kirk Franklin Gospel Comedy Tour’. Harvey and Franklin have teamed up for the first time for this tour. “We know these are hard times for a lot of people out there, with the economy, family life, even church life…it’s just hard,” said Franklin.

“We want people to leave the concert inspired, happy and charged — knowing that no matter what they are facing, hard times do not last forever and brighter days are indeed ahead.” In between promoting his new CD and his concert tour with Steve Harvey, Franklin will begin taping the fourth season of BET’s Sunday Best in early spring.

“‘I Smile’ is a fun, urban upbeat melody I wrote,” said Franklin. “It is a declarative statement that I’m not going to live my life based on how I feel.

I will live my life based on God’s Word. It is not

Franklin received an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Literary Work – Instructional for his New York Times bestseller, The Blueprint: A Plan for Living above Life’s Storms

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Links http://www.kirkfranklin.com http://facebook.com/kirkfranklin http://twitter.com/kirkfranklin

(Gotham Books). Franklin was recently honoured at the 26th Annual Stellar Awards with the Thomas A. Dorsey Most Notable Achievement Award for his humanitarian efforts on behalf of Artists United for Haiti. After the tragic earthquake in Port-au-Prince, Franklin produced an all-star gospel recording of ‘Are You Listening’ in an effort to raise much needed funds for the people of Haiti. Artists United for Haiti included an ensemble of over 100 singers. ‘Are You Listening’ was also nominated for Special Event CD of the Year at this year’s Stellar Awards.

Kirk Franklin is a man of MANY talents but if there’s one thing that comes through everything he does, it’s that he is a normal guy, he likes normal things and all he has achieved is because of the grace of God on his life. He’s an example of what can happen when you have a dream, when you have a vision and when amongst other things you stay humble, thankful and put your faith in God.

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For this edition I was initially going to write a column entitled ‘to give or not to give’ but with the recent devastations in Japan I could do nothing but think about how blessed we are for everything that God has given us remembering that at any moment we could go from having all to nothing.

During the period of Lent so many of us spent hours thinking of what we could possibly sacrifice, the playstation, facebook, new york cheesecake, bbm (ok maybe that’s pushing it!) but the list of ‘what to give up’ is endless. Many of us would have gone through this decision making process dreading the thought of having to go without. In doing so it is so easy to fail to appreciate that the fact that we had such a great pool of addictions to choose from is just a small indication of how blessed we really are. Across the globe thousands of people are born without and die without. The notion of worldly pleasures is nothing more than just a fantasy that is dreamt and never lived. We have all been blessed to be in a position where we have the choice to give up certain items yet still many of us will fail to deny our flesh of our chosen pleasures for the full 46 days.

The 8.9 magnitude earthquake ripped through the north-east of Japan, just a few days after the beginning of Lent, a day when for many living without was no longer an option. In such a short space of time residents that were affected by the earthquake and the tsunami that followed went from having all to nothing. The 3rd richest country in the world now has tens ofthousands of its citizens stranded in desolate regions, searching for precious remains and loved ones. A country that appeared to have everything a few weeks ago has been flattened by the force of nature in a matter of seconds.

Never has it been so evident to me how fragile life is and how quickly it can be taken away Psalms 103:15 As for man, his days are like grass. It is in times like these that people truly begin to understand want is important in life. Those of us who willingly decide to go through a period of abstaining from that one thing that we can-

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not seem to live without can only imagine what is like to be stripped of everything you once owned.

With the ever increasing number of wars and natural disasters all over the world people who once had in abundance are now having to survive without the basic needs of life. So often its not until things are taken away that we learn to appreciate what we once had and realise that what we thought was such an essential part of our daily lives is not as significant after all. There are countless decisions that we make and things we possess that we take for granted until they are snatched from right under our feet without warning. I am certain the mentality of those in Japan has shifted as they are now more grateful than ever for the simple things.

Devastations truely put into perspective the things that matter the most. Its times likes these that we recognise that possessions of today are so insignificant in comparison to the everlasting rewards that await us in heaven. As we use this 46 day period to sacrifice the things that we seem incapable of living without lets remember that Lent is more than just giving up something but it’s allowing something positive and spirit nurturing to fill its place. Controlling the desires of the flesh will allow your spirit to grow and take president in every aspect of your life. Ensuring we are spiritually right and connected with God is what matters.

Remember the sacrifices we continue to uphold over the next coming weeks are nothing in comparison to the ultimate sacrifice God gave in sending his Son Jesus to die that we may have eternal life. Choice is a fantastic thing that we should not take for granted. Let this opportunity that we have to sacrifice as a collective be a time of drawing closer to Him, being grateful for our endless blessings and praying for those who for them living without is not an option.

Contributor - Iyisha Rocke

Links http://twitter.com/MissRocke

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Links http://twitter.com/caitplage http://www.facebook.com/caitplagemusic http://www.caitplage.com

Cait Plage is someone we came across by chance. We’d never heard of her but somehow her press release got into our inbox.

Cait is now gearing up for the release of her sophomore project, the EP ‘All We Have Is Now’, March 29th.

Produced by Chris August and Jacob Schrodt, All We Have Is Now’ is Plage’s She describes herself as “A bubblestorybook, sharing personal stories tea-sipping singer-songwriter who and experiences from set to song. As once voiced Japanese anime and the follow-up to her debut CD, ‘Cait loves a good seaweed salad. I spend Plage’ (2008), the new five-song EP rainy days decorating cakes, and I shares her good times and the bad, write songs on long runs to the rhythm yet most of all, shares what God has of my footsteps on the gravel. But placed openly on her heart. more than anything about me, you

must know that I am passionately in “These songs are definitely differlove with Jesus.” Just by reading that ent than my previous album, but they it was evident that she was a bubbly are all recent stories of my life,” Plage person who is clearly experiencing the explains. “I have literally cried and joy of the Lord in here life. laughed writing them, and they are all true, representing who I am from Most musicians are normally musia very honest place. They are pages cians from early childhood but Cait from the most honest and raw places got her first guitar at the age of 14, an in my soul—places where I have strugage where most have already been gled and fallen short. The songs reveal playing for years. It was also around how God continues to pursue me and this time that Cait committed herself use me despite my weaknesses for His to following Jesus and her new-found glory.”

The City Harmonic is whatfaith happens whenfresh you mix carry me home,” became fuel for her crea it’s clear that for the crowd, this mofelt like she’d been We Have Is Now selfnostalgic hymns, brit-rock tive and fire. that She sing-at-thementshown isn’t onlyAll shared with God, butincludes also eachthe other. new purpose and direction and what titled cut, along with “Loaded Gun,” campfire feeling. had previously been only an outlet for “In Your Arms,” and “Live Love Loud.” creativity was now also an expression tuneHarmonic, is “Pieces,” Plage When listeningAnother to The City youwhich instinctively of love for her King. shares her personal story about “You know, without audio I’d swear this crowd was turn up the volume and join thefrustration chorus as the heartache and thatmusic goes at a seriously great hard rock show,” suggests the dynamically bounces fromfalling sparsefor intimacy to soaring After feeling the pull from God she along with someone for the gave in watches to His call...

“To capture God’s andwrong reasons, having the courBible camp’s video producer as he footage celebration back again.

It’s ayet musical metaphor for love in a song and then share it with age to close a door when you know from a worship concert played City Harmonthe band that plays it—with feetright. in the“Loaded dirt and you” by as The she describes it. in your hearttheir it’s not Gun,” Plage literally wrote in one ic the night before. The crowd pulses along to the their eyes toward thewhich heavens.

It isn’t long before you Cait is a believer in sharing experisitting, is about being disobedient to band’s piano hook-laden “Manifesto” with andthat music find yourself along both and not you ought ences and we hands all know is a singing God, while “Allbecause We Have Is Now” very great and creative way to share and “Live Love Loud” are about what fists raised in worship while they swing back and to, but because you want to. Like a spontaneous outany message and so she is using her God has been putting heavily on her forth like a hammer to its steady, driving beat.

And break of her “Hey Jude” the campfire, you want in on gift of music to share her story and heart.around

experiences. even when the band puts down their instruments the moment. And getting people in on the act—hearts All ofmoving—is the songsatwere written solely the crowd takes over, raucously singing again and pounding and feet the core of what The “I believe experiences are meant to

by Plage with the exception of “All We again the chorus to a tune be they have only just City Harmonic Have is about. shared, all in theheard. hope that they Is Now,” where she was joined by might help someone else.

For this American Idol contestant/singer and Before long the band stand shoulder-to-shoulder reason, I offer up the most torn and songwriter Ben Honeycutt and producwith each other, and eye-to-eye with their audi-of my writing. They er/drummer Jacob Schrodt to pen the tear-stained pages are pages from the find most honest and EP’s title cut. ence, gathering whatever instruments they can raw places in my soul—places where I

and leading the room in a rowdy, folk-tinged rendihave struggled and fallen short, places Along with sharing his vocal talents my has broken like fragile to sing background, Chris August tion of “Swing Low, Sweet where Chariot.”

In heart the middle of glass into a thousand pieces, places produced three of the songs. Schrodt the stomping, clapping andofshouts of “comin’ for toof redemption love and loss, places produced two along with playing and freedom, places of hope.” drums on the entire EP. David Leonard (NEEDTOBREATHE, Sons & Daughters, Cait believes that her God is a LOVJackson Waters) is the feature vocalist ING God... He has a love so profound, on “In Your Arms.” so deep and so strong that nothing

can separate us from that love. That is Cait Plage is more than ready to share definitely a message that needs to be her music and personal stories with shared with the world and we’re glad the listener and is currently planning she is doing it with such passion and a tour, along with leading worship at excitement. camps and other venues. She explains, “During the past few years, I’ve had a Her songs are infectious and uplifting, lot of experiences and I have grown running the gamut from pop-rock mel- more in the past few years than ever odies to introspective string arrangein my life as I’ve learned, sometimes ments, and her sound is reminiscent of the hard way, what is truly important http://www.thecityharmonic.com singer/songwriters like Joy Williams or in this life. I’ve been feeling the presshttp://www.myspace.com/thecityharmonic Bethany Dillon. Her surprisingly mature ing urgencyhttp://www.facebook.com/thecityharmonic more than ever to tell the voice drives home messages ranging world abouthttp://twitter.com/#!/thecityharmonic Jesus. I am not promised from the unchanging nature of God’s another moment in this life and I need http://www.youtube.com/thecityharmonic love to the necessity of giving Him to make every second count for His everything.

Kingdom.”

Links

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©2011 Avedis Zildjian Company

what t o n s ’ t I

you want to say.

u o y t a h w s ’ t I

have

to Say.

Donavan Hepburn - Take That

zildjian.com

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Michelle Osbourne is someone we heard playing the bass a few years ago at a gig we were. We were totally blown away. She PLAYED that bass and had awesome feel and groove which we noticed as musicians ourselves.

Over the years she’s continued to develop

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and make a name for herself amongst musicians and professionally within the music industry. She’s about to embark on a tour with a UK Pop sensation and so we wanted to learn more about her role as a musician and also how she’s preparing for the tour.

Muzo Spot: Thanks for taking the time to talk to us. You’re a very busy woman so we appreciate this a lot.

Michelle Osbourne: It’s my pleasure. Thanks for the opportunity.

Muzo Spot: What was your first experience of music?

Michelle Osbourne: I just remember listening to a handful of CD’s at home. It was mainly Gospel from the US. Artists like Milton Brunson, The Winans, John. P.Kee and Hezekiah Walker. Shortly after that I went to my first ever concert when I was about 12 years old. The entire Winans family came over. It was then that I discovered that I had a strong passion for music.

Muzo Spot: How do you think that influenced you and your passion for music?

Michelle Osbourne: Seeing songs that I loved being played live, definitely unlocked a desire I never knew I had. I guess watching musicians play live brings an element of emotion and atmosphere that a CD recording seldom replicates. Live music is definitely the thing that motivates me the most.

Muzo Spot: What made you choose the bass guitar as your instrument?

Michelle Osbourne: To be honest, in my early teens I tried my hand at a couple of instruments.

The clarinet and the piano, but none of them stuck. I remember being in church and watching the musicians play their hearts out week in week out. I always loved the sound and feel of the bass.

The bass player at church always played with such passion and I decided that I wanted to do the same.

Muzo Spot: How did your 1st opportunity to play your instrument publicly come about?

Michelle Osbourne: It had to be at college where I met my long standing friend Gavin Holligan. He was a keyboard player. During our lunch period, I would grab a bass and we would sit around a piano and go through some ‘principles of music’ and/or just jam. We went to a performing arts college so there were plenty of opportunities to learn and play. Shortly after that, we were playing together at the lunch time and after school concerts.

That was probably my first memory of playing in public.

Muzo Spot: What was your first real gig? The stand out gig that let you make a name for yourself or make you think you definitely wanted to pursue a career as a musician etc Michelle Osbourne: It has to be the Muyiwa and Riversongz gig (of whom I still play with today).

Although I played gigs before that I think that playing with Riversongz gave me a good platform.

Riversongz presented many opportunities to play all over the UK. I enjoyed the travelling and playing live on stage as well as being in rehearsal rooms perfecting the material. Even though it was hard work and often long hours I knew then that making a living playing music is something I would and could seriously consider.

Muzo Spot: What is it like being a female in the music industry?

Michelle Osbourne: It’s great! There isn’t a large number of female musicians in the music industry in comparison to the amount of males so I do find that sometimes things may need to be adjusted

M.E.X MAGAZINE | ISSUE 3 behind the scenes in order to accommodate, but in terms of musically its cool. Sometimes before joining a particular project they would mention that I will be the only female on the project. I guess they just want to make sure that I’m comfortable which is really nice.

It can some be tough though as I’m often out til late, with lots of heavy equipment and more times than none it’s just me. The physical aspect of it can be quite tiring.

Muzo Spot: Does it get annoying when you hear people say stuff like “She’s awesome... for a woman!” and other comments like that?

Michelle Osbourne: YES! LOL Although I do understand the sentiment. However times have changed and there are a lot of great female musicians around playing at a very high standards. I have noticed comments like these are very few and far between now. That’s a sign of progress.

Muzo Spot: As a bassist, your connection with the drummer is important. What’s your perspective between the relationship between drums and bass?

Michelle Osbourne: Good question! Through my experience I’ve learned that locking with a drummer is more than just playing the same rhythmic patterns. Musicians feel time different. For example drummers that play with a click will either feel the beat just ahead of the click, on the click or just behind the click. This is not a wrong or right thing but just how you feel the beat internally. It’s important for me as a bass player to know where the drummer is feeling the beat and for me to adjust accordingly or vice versa. The Rhythm section is the foundation to any song so the relationship between drums and bass must be consistent in feel as well as together in groove. Having a good relationship with each other as people is also an important element.

Muzo Spot: You’re about to go on tour with THE WANTED... How did you get the call to do that gig?

Michelle Osbourne: A good friend of mine, Donavan Hepburn actually put me forward for it. He’s good friends with The Wanted’s MD. I believe they both had a number of conversations, which led to me having the opportunity to speak with the MD who thereafter offered me the job.

Muzo Spot: So, as a musician, your gear is just as important as your gift. What gear do you use and why do you use it? What gear are you taking with you on the THE WANTED tour?

Michelle Osbourne: Amp wise I use MarkBass Amps.

I mainly use a 4 x 10 Cab and sometimes a 15inch with that. With that I use a MoMark amp head which is a customised unit. I use MarkBass for two main reasons, firstly they are one of the few amps that don’t colour the tone of my bass with it’s own sound and secondly because they are unbelievably light in comparison to most bass amplification.

My bass guitars are a Fender Jazz 5 Mexican, Musicman Sub and a Custom Made Sei Bass –Flamboyant and I use DR Strings (Hi-Beams). I’m actually really passionate about DR Strings (it’s a bit strange I know, lol) I use DR Strings simply because they have a great tone, which isn’t overly bright and trebly. They also last very long in comparison to other makes I have used.

For Synths I either use a Roland Juno G, Korg MS2000 or trigger the sounds via Mainstage Soft-

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ware using a Midi Controller. I use the Roland Juno G because it has an amazing bank of sounds for a small synth. The keyboard is reasonably easy to programme and its nice and light, which is always a bonus.

For The Wanted Tour I’ll be using my Fender Jazz, (it’s a strictly ears gig so no amps will be used at all) and on this occasion I’ve opted for the Korg MS2000.

Muzo Spot: Now you’ve worked with some big names in the industry. Aside from your ability to play, what else has been important to you getting called for gigs and referred on etc Michelle Osbourne: Definitely things like a good character, being respectful towards your peers, respecting time, respecting the style of music. Those things are imperative. Also preparation and versatility is another important factor.

Muzo Spot: You’re a part on an all female band called A.O.N. How did that come about and what is that band really all about?

Michelle Osbourne: We met about 6 years ago now through Nadine Lee who is the drummer and MD for the band. We had a good relationship and we all had similar goals that we were trying to achieve.

We decided to form a band with the ambition of working towards breaking some of the barriers that sometimes restrict females from being able progress within the music industry and just proving I guess that women can make good instrumentalists. We discovered a gap in the market so to speak, where there was opportunity for an all female band to play in Women’s conferences and seminar’s etc and sought to fill that gap. Aside from that we also just really enjoy making music and being in each other’s company…most of the time, LOL! We’ve actually got a single out called ‘Can’t Contain it’ Sorry, I’m going for the shameless plug, lol.

It’s available now to download on iTunes, CD Baby, Spotify and Amazon. You can also catch us on the follow social networking sites: Twitter: theaonband, Facbook: All or Nothing - The All Female Band Myspace: www.myspace.com/allornothing4 www.emusikuk.co.uk/aon Muzo Spot: You work with Christian/Gospel artist’s and mainstream artist’s a-like. What’s your take on the Christians working in the ‘secular’ music industry debate?

Michelle Osbourne: Ah! ‘The Great Debate’. In my opinion I think it’s very much down to the individual, their character and the call they have on their life. Up until the age of 28 I used to work a 9-5 job. It wasn’t a Christian company therefore it was a ‘secular’ company. The office environment presented itself with its own share of difficulties. As a Christian employee I had to make a decision not to participate in things that were maybe contrary to my Christian beliefs. A few years on, I’m in a different industry but the principle is exactly the same. I do however think the entertainment industry presents itself with more challenges due to the nature of the industry. So you then need to be truthful with yourself about what you know you’re strong enough to withstand.

I think you really need to know your purpose and the calling on your life and that comes via having a relationship with God. It was only when my relationship with God developed that I really began to know myself and understand what I should and

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Muzo Spot: How have you managed to survive in a male dominated industry without having to become overly masculine to compete.

Michelle Osbourne: The music industry is dominated by males but it’s not solely a male industry.

That’s where the answer lies I think. Being able to do something well and working hard has nothing to do with gender. I think if you love something enough and work hard to do well at it then that’s the thing that will sustain you. Also I think the industry love’s the fact that there are female musicians around I think it embraces female musicians too. If a particular project or artists is looking for a masculine image then they will hire a male musician and if they’re looking for the feminine touch then they would hire a female.

I must add though, that from what I’ve learned over the years, you definitely need to be able to hold your own in order to be considered for projects equally. Being female shouldn’t be an excuse for other band members to have to compensate for something you haven’t mastered.

being able to spend time with friends and family and not being able to attend my home church.

It’s a challenge when you’re away from church for long periods of time. I always feel that I’m missing so much. Missing the comforts of home and lack of sleep is also a physical challenge I guess. After a while it does tend to take its toll on your health.

Muzo Spot: How do you maintain your faith while you’re away on the road?

I’ve always been taught to make myself accountable to someone. If I go away there’s always people that will pray with and for me while I’m away. Knowing that someone is specifically praying for me and knowing that I’ve had open conversations about the difficulties of being on the road really helps me keep my focus while I’m away. I think always keeping in touch with people that love you and have you’re well being at heart also helps.

Muzo Spot: What’s been your favourite/most memorable gig so far and why?

Michelle Osbourne: There are a handful of gigs that have been very memorable for me. It’s hard to pick a favourite.

Muzo Spot: How do you think being a female musi- I’ve had lots of memorable gigs with Riversongz, cian gives you an edge over a male musician. probably the outdoor festival we did in Nigeria was one of my favourites. I guess these ones are always Michelle Osbourne: I guess it depends on what a memorable because the group is so close. We’re like particular artist is looking for. Having a female in a family. the band is a different look. I think it only gives an edge if that’s what somebody specifically wants Muzo Spot: Here’s the question we and any other for their band. I think its just an image thing to be musician reading this wants to know... Who’s your honest. favourite musician?

Muzo Spot: What advice would you give to a feMichelle Osbourne: This is probably the hardest male musician wanting to work in the music indus- question to answer. I have a few favourites. I couldn’t try? possibly name one. I can probably narrow it down to these few though but even that’s difficult. Lol Michelle Osbourne: I would say know your instrument well. Spend time practicing and learning Esperanza Spalding, Femi Temowo, Goziam Okognew skill sets. Surround yourself with industry wu, Maurice Fitzgerald, Kim Burrell, Reggie Young, professionals who can give sound advice and most Tal Wilkenfeld, James Jamerson, Darrell Freeman, importantly ensure you depend on your ability and not solely on the fact that you’re female. Being fe- Muzo Spot: Any shoout-outs? male can get you work but being good at what you do will allow you to keep working. When the novel- This could go on for a while but I’ll keep it very ty of being female wears off, people will still need a short. I’d like to appreciate my friends and family good musician that has a good character and who who have supported, encouraged and inspired me is easy to work with. I would also say if you believe in my endeavours. Big thanks also to Paolo Burrochi that you are able to do it then go for it confidently at MarkBass and Jamie Franklin at Roland UK. and don’t allow any negative comments or set backs make you doubt your decision or abilities.

Muzo Spot: A big part of your job is being on the road on tour, sometimes for long periods of time.

What’s the biggest challenge you have when you’re away on long tours?

Michelle Osbourne: I really want to say finding a good hairdresser but that’s not very practical is it, lol! To be honest I’ve never really done a very long tour away from home. As much as I love travelling I guess when I am away the challenges are not

Links http://www.myspace.com/micheinmotion

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This weekend I was watching one of my favorite movies/love stories, called “The Notebook”. If you haven’t seen this movie, don’t! It will clean out all of your tear ducts. (smile) This movie is about a young couple who falls madly in love with each other, and find themselves estranged from the relationship they desire because of many family obstacles keeping them apart. Kind of like a modern day Romeo and Juliet, but with a unique twist.

To keep from giving away the ending of this incredible movie, I will tell you that it made me begin to wonder and think about my own love life. The type of love that “he” had for “her” in the movie, was so intense. For years, he literally sacrificed his entire life to ensure her well being was a priority when she was unable to care for herself.

With teary eyes, I began to wonder, would I ever find “The One” that would love me the

way that I knew I could love him. Instantly, God gave me a peace that said “Yes, he is out there, and he does exist.” But would I recognize him if he showed up? I mean really, how can you know when he or she is “The One”?

I feel like I have pretty good grasp on love and relationships. I’ve had both good and bad relationships, but I can honestly say that I have learned more from being single as opposed to when I was in a committed relationship/marriage. Being able to watch both happy and unhappy couples, and even counseling some of them, has given me a unique perspective on what both men and women should look for when trying to identify the ideal match. Here’s a few things that both men and women should pay attention to, not just before entering into a long-term godly relationship, but to maintain a healthy relationship as well. Enjoy!

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For Ladies:

For Men:

1. He will love your laugh, and hate your tears.

2. A ‘Proof of Love’... is when he is interested in solving your problems. Love cares.

3. Your first ministry is Him. 4. The minute he distrusts you, his heart is homeless. A man’s trust is EVERYTHING! 5. He’s not looking for your idea of a complete package.

(Do I really have to say more?)

5. Study Ruth and Esther... “To catch a King”.... 6. Prayer and sincerity will keep him.

7. The difference between a Timex and a Rolex... is how you honor it. Your honor will make him FEEL as valuable as you want him to be.

8. Don’t rush him. He’s making lifetime decisions, concerning YOU! 9. Buy what HE likes. When you dress in his favorite colors, he can’t help but favor you.

10. What he will sacrifice for, will be revealed in his fantasies. His passions are revealed in his fantasies. Build his fantasy... not his nightmare.

11. He relates life to football. Don’t look like the mascot.

Fix yourself up!

12. He relates life to football. Be the cheerleader... not the opponent.

13. He should be able to notice you, without you trying to be noticed. 14. Your spirit will draw a man. Your skirt will catch a case.

15. He should ‘feel’ like God to you, responding the way God does... Leading, not pushing. Guiding, not steering.

Holding not smothering.

15. A man’s heart is the weakest part of him. How you “handle” his heart will determine if he holds your hand.

16. Your words will either chisel or sculpt him. Select your words carefully. Chiseling hurts. Sculpting creates a masterpiece!

17. Your look may turn him “on”, but your mouth will turn him off! Can’t control your mouth? Better marry a deaf man.

18. When you talk too much, and he doesn’t respond... know that he has pushed your Mute Button. Didn’t know you had one? You do...!

19. When a man reveals his dreams, he reveals his passion. React and respond like he just showed you his newborn for the first time.

20. When a man exposes his feelings, he is handing you the key to his heart. He won’t turn over a key without testing your consistency.

21. Don’t look for a man who “chases”. Look for a man who reaches. God is a gentleman. He should be too.

22. If he loves you, he will care for you like a husband, before the proposal. How he “husbands” you now will determine how he will care for you later.

23. He doesn’t want a woman that’s just like him. He wants a woman that makes him look better than he already is. Be YOU! 24. His stress does not need YOU added to it. Be what he looks forward to. Not what he dreads.

25. Unfaithfulness is not just about breaking covenant sex. It’s also about breaking covenant secrets. Keep his secrets.

1. Honor your mom... but LOVE your wife. Love comes first. Always. It’s the greatest commandment.

2. Yes, ladies have had to deal with pain since the garden. Don’t remind her, by adding to it.

3. A proof of love is when she prays for your family, without you asking.

4. Your first ministry is her!

5. Women are designed to love. Give her something to work with and we’ll prove it.

6. You have a hard role, being the example of God in her life. That’s a husband!

7. Honest communication will keep her satisfied until you have made a decision. She needs to hear your leadership. Not just see it.

8. Your judgment will make or break her heart. Her heart is your first priority! Be gentle with your words.

9. A woman willing to create your fantasies is willing to maintain your happiness!

10. Her passion will increase when her provision is secured. Sounds harsh, but its true!

11. You will never be bored... with a creative woman!

12. If she doesn’t celebrate your successes, she will marvel in your failures. Be careful of this!

13. Two words... “Help - Meet” not “Help Me”... Make sure she has the tools to help you build your dreams. Not just profit from them.

14. You should feel like you got your rib back... Standing differently. Feeling better. Walking taller. Heart, more protected.

15. Her submission goes into remission the minute you demand it. She wants to submit to a man worthy of it, not demanding of it.

16. She can be trained. You just have to give her a reason to want to be.

17. The “silent treatment” is so 2010. Talk to her. Listen to her heart. Then, watch for her actions to support her words.

18. Know that when you are silent, the enemy is speaking to her. Get to her before he does. He doesn’t play fair.

19. How she handles your heart is how she respects your goals. Men pursue dreams from their heart. Ladies should handle both with care.

20. A caring woman will think about what she says... before, during and after she says it.

21. If she loves you, she will take herself off of the market... before the ring. That’s devotion!

22. A godly woman LOVES the word submission. She’s just looking for a godly man to prove it to.

23. To understand her... means to have conversations.

Women bleed through words. You bleed through reactions. Communication translates. Communicate constantly.

24. Women need to be needed, just like you do.

25. Remember that she is fragile. Despite her strength, she needs to always be handled with care.

If you are in a relationship, put these keys into practice. Know that it takes two to agree, not one. Share these keys with your mate and make an earnest effort to work on enhancing your relationship together.

If you are single, know that God does have the perfect One for you. In order to recognize “The One” you have to know yourself! Begin by writing about yourself. Write about your personal likes and dislikes, interests, hobbies, etc.

Then go deeper. Write about your personality. Write about the type of mate you would like to love. Take your time and study yourself before looking for the mate that will make you happy. You will never be happy if you don’t know what makes you happy. Focus on these keys when looking for the right mate, and have fun in getting to know those you are dating... and knowing yourself!

About the Writer...

Nurisha Liggins is the author of “Living The Light!”, a 90-Day Transformational Devotional. If you have a question that you would like Nurisha to address in this column, please send it to AskNurisha@Gmail.com Visit www.NurishaLiggins.com. Make sure you follow her on Twitter! Screen Name: @iAmNurisha. Join her Facebook Fan Page at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nurisha-Liggins/157732600930577

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M.E.X MAGAZINE | ISSUE 3

A major part of finding and fulfilling your purpose is accepting who you are. When you are able to celebrate you, then your purpose path will be much easier. One of the keys to self acceptance is the ability to be satisfied with who we are and not comparing ourselves to others.

When we play that game, we always lose because in our eyes everyone else is usually more talented, gifted, better looking, taller, thinner, etc than we are.

Agreement with the word of God, with an attitude of thanksgiving is the most empowering thing we can do.

David in Psalm 139 v 14 arrived at the place where he declared “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well”. This kind of thinking requires a major change in our paradigm. Paul instructed us that we should not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Our psyche therefore is the place where the greatest changes are made. Our minds therefore need to stay sensitive to the Spirit of God through reading and meditating on His word.

We cannot think or see things the way the world does in that people and relationships are seen as disposable, gratification has to be immediate - if it feels good it’s got to be right. No - we are asked to take a more timely thought out approach to life embracing the long view.

When God created us he didn’t just have the day of our birth in mind, but he saw our entire life and purpose starting at the end and working to the beginning. He left nothing to chance but equipped us for life completely.

He took the care to form and craft us. In creation He spoke everything into being - let there be - and there was, but with man he knelt on the earth and formed

him out of the dust, carefully etching out the man. His tools were his hands - has there ever been a more loving craftsman?

Man was the masterpiece in God’s creation and then He breathed into man the breath of life.

God was proud of what he had done, “And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good” (Genesis 1 v 31). Up to this point God always looked at what he had made and thought it was good, but on the making of man He declared it was VERY good. We were born out of God’s praise. “For we are his workmanship” (Ephesians 2 v 10 KJ). God does both the making and the saving. He creates each of us by Christ Jesus to join Him in the work He does, the work He has prepared for us to do, work we had better be doing” (Ephesians 2 v 10 Message).

Many today do not acknowledge God’s ownership of their lives or the fact that we come from Him and have no life without Him. He deliberately created us with purpose in mind. Let us review.

God has carefully made us in His image with awe and reverence, not into a void, but with our work and purpose in His mind. Imagine, if you could surround yourself with things that would give you pleasure and cause you to light up, you would choose the things that do not cause you frustration, that look good and are attractive and that would serve you. God could have had whatever He wanted and with all that choice available to Him, He chose you and me. His verdict was that everything He created was good. Let us engage and agree with him and thus engage in our purpose.

M.E.X MAGAZINE | ISSUE 3

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Contributor - Yvonne Brooks

Links http://www.twitter.com/yvonnebrookstv http://www.facebook.com/yvonnebrookstv http://www.yvonnebrooks.tv

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T his week, to support National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, we are giving away a free download of our song “Courage.” Click Here to download the song, no strings attached.

This song is an extremely personal song for me. I want to share with you the story behind the song, which is about my own struggle with an eating disorder. I hope that it reaches someone out there who has been or is where I’ve been, that it will encourage those of you who may be struggling with a similar problem.

You’re not alone… and there is hope.

Where do you start when you’re about to be vulnerable with people you have and may never meet? I guess at the beginning…

I think I was 12 when I first started feeling the affects of “pretty pressure,” as I like to call it. My best friend was 2 years older than me and she was tall and athletic and pretty and boys liked her and and and… And that was the first time I remember realizing I was short and kinda chubby and that my daddy thinking I was pretty just wasn’t enough anymore.

And that’s pretty much the story from ages 12-15. Those awkward, hard years of realizing boys exist (even though I kinda always liked boys:)) and going through lots of changes and feeling pressure from so many things: friends, magazines (Bop, Teen Beat), TV, shopping malls with ads of people that were perfect on the walls… There were so many things all around that all added up to me being short and kinda chubby.

There was a defining moment though where it went from just feeling not good enough to doing something about it: There was a boy… and I liked this boy a lot. He was cute and tall and had curly hair and a great smile that would make me forget what I was thinking or doing if he looked my way. I wanted this boy to like me. I would think of things to say if I ever got the chance to talk to him. I planned my outfits every morning with him in mind.

One day I saw him walking towards me and I thought, “Oh this is it. Here he comes and we are gonna talk and it is gonna be magical!” He came up to me and we chit-chatted for a little bit…

And then he looked at me as if he was

gonna say something important, you know with the head tilted to one side, blue eyes sparkling, so tall I would have had to stand on my tip toes if he ever kissed me. I had every bit of me alert to the beautiful words I anticipated coming out of his mouth.

“Melissa,” he said.

“Yes?” I replied, with many excited head nods.

“You know, you kind of have chubby ankles,” he said, ever so casually.

And that’s the moment that all the years of feeling a little bit ugly and chubby came to their final pinnacle and then crashed down on me and buried me.

That’s the moment I knew I would do anything to never feel that again. That’s the moment I decided to do whatever it takes to not be that girl anymore. That’s the moment I became an anorexic.

I didn’t completely stop eating right away because that would be too obvious. I started with little things, like excuses that I didn’t feel well, so that meal got skipped. Then there was the ‘oh I ate already’ – another meal skipped. The ‘I’m gonna eat as soon as I get home’ – meal skipped. And the ‘when I eat in

071 wasn’t as easy this time though, because I had people in my life that knew the lies I would try to use. I did give into the anorexia again for a bit, but this time it was harder.

Melissa with her ‘Superchick’ Bandmates

the morning it makes my stomach upset’ – no meal. ‘I’m going out with friends and we are gonna eat at the mall’ – zero meal.

It became lots of little lies every day until I got so good at it that eventually I had enough lies that I could skip whole days of eating… which became weeks… and then became months. The part that really fueled the fire was that I was losing weight and people were telling me that I looked good. So I thought “why in the world stop?” I was finally getting skinny like I always wanted to be and people seemed to like it. It was a sealed deal as far as I was concerned.

After a while I actually had said that I didn’t feel well so many times that the thought of food actually did make me feel sick. It was awesome…for a while. Until people stopped telling me that I looked good and started looking at me funny. Until my grandpa one day said to me that it looked like someone had deflated my chest. Until I started feeling ugly again and the same feelings of just not being happy with myself slowly crept back in.

After about three months of pretty much not eating, I started looking for something to make me feel happy and pretty again. It just so happened that my best friend had been away at a clinic for eating disorders and when she got home she started telling me things that she learned there. The most important thing she ever told me one day still rings in my head whenever I feel not quite good enough: God created you uniquely and specifically for a reason and a purpose and He thinks you are a beautiful creation.

Now I’m not here to tell you that the moment she said those words to me I believed them and was miraculously transformed. But those words did start something inside of me. Kind of like a little (very little) seed of truth and hope were planted and the more I started to want my life to change and the more I talked to my friend about it, the more it would grow.

I honestly don’t remember exactly

how long it took but I do remember the moment I believed it for the first time. I was standing in the bathroom looking in the mirror.

At first I was just looking at myself, doing the usual dissecting and scrutinizing every inch and criticizing myself…. and then those words about God knitting me in my mother’s womb came to me as if someone was audibly saying it out loud to me at that moment.

I tried to ignore it, but then again I heard, “I made you exactly the way I wanted you to be – a beautiful creation. You are beautiful!”

God was telling me something in that moment that I will never forget, and when I looked up into the mirror this time it was not with my eyes – I saw myself for the first time the way God looks down on me. The same way He looked down on me the day that I was born and said, “What a beautiful creation!”

And it’s not just about a worldly beauty that changes and fades, but a Godly kind of beauty. The kind of beauty that we see when we look at the mountains and the ocean, the sky, flowers, birds, rainbows and all the other things that God created and that we stop and say, “Wow, that is so beautiful.” The God that created those things created me. I am beautiful… a beauty that cannot be taken away from me because it was created in me before I was even one day old.

I broke that day. I cried and cried and cried, but not because I felt ugly or unaccepted. I cried because for the first time, I felt truly and wholeheartedly loved with no strings attached just the way that I am.

I’m not gonna sit here and say that after that it was easy going. It did get better – way better – for a long time. And then about the third year I was in Superchick I somehow forgot about that beauty that I’d found that day so many years before. I started feeling inadequate and like I needed to be a certain shape and size for people to love me. So I stopped eating again. It

I believe that’s because once you know the truth, you can’t hide from it for very long. You can ignore it for awhile and keep yourself busy and try to push it away, but when everything stops – and there will always be a moment when it does and you are all alone confronted with what you are doing to yourself – the truth will start to whisper in your ear.

And for me God whispered once again, “You are my beautiful creation, Melissa.” I couldn’t ignore it. So I clung to it like water and air.

I made it my mantra every morning when I would wake up. I would look in the mirror and say, “What am I gonna believe today? Lies or the truth? Am I going to be courageous? Am I going to choose real beauty or fake?”

And that’s what I have done every day since then.

It’s not always about a one time choice. Sometimes that’s too big or too hard to handle or grasp or deal with. So we make it one day at a time. And some days (I’m gonna be completely honest here), I choose the lie. But the beauty of life is that the next day, or even the next minute sometimes, I can choose the truth.

My name is Melissa. I have struggled with anorexia since I was 15 years old. Today I beat it and choose the truth. I am beautiful. I am loved. I am me.

Download “Courage” this week for free by Clicking Here. Please feel free to share this link with friends who may also need to hear the song this week during National Eating Disorders Awareness Week.

There are so many people out there who are struggling with self-image issues and eating disorders. Sometimes, all it can take to help someone is an unexpected compliment to remind them that they are beautiful! Join the http://www.operationbeautiful.com/movement and help change someone’s perception of themselves today… because we all need a reminder sometimes that we are each uniquely and wonderfully so beautiful!

Links http://twitter.com/superchickband http://www.superchickonline.com

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M.E.X MAGAZINE | ISSUE 3