I
recently got back from a trip to Africa and it definitely adjusted my perspective on some things. All of us have recently watched our economy continue to crumble. The week I was in Africa is when our government was proposing their $700 Billion dollar bailout. Surprisingly, it was the top story on all the African and Middle Eastern news outlets that we got there in Nigeria. What happens here affects the rest of the world. There are many places that are already teetering on the edge of survival and the turmoil in our economy could be the tipping point for them as there will no longer be enough food or water or fuel. As I write this the stock market is tumbling for the third day in a row and it’s lost over 33% since a year ago which means over $2 Trillion dollars of people’s savings and retirement is now gone. The Dow Jones average may not impact that many of us directly, but it’s trickling down and becoming a reality as thousands of jobs are now on the chopping block each day. This week several more people from my church lost their career jobs. Yesterday myself and another staff member sat and prayed with a crying single mom who lost her job last week and just got her lights turned off. Its getting rough and people are panicking. The stakes are high. By the time you read this we’ll have a new president. Last night I watched the highlights of latest presidential debate and how both candidates tried to convince us that they had the answer to the economy. It’s a big mess we’ve created and it’s not going to be an easy fix for whoever is now taking over in the Oval Office. It’s times like this that should cause us to put our hands on the lenses of our worldview and do some readjusting. What have we really been focused on? Of course the scripture says be in the world, but not of the world. Christ followers would say “Word” to that. But, are we living it? Are we really focused on that? The main reason our global economy is a wreck is because our focus has been off. Banks over lent and people overspent and now everyone is broke. We lived on credit. If you look at the statistics there are a whole of Christians in debt and even losing their homes right now… so how different have we really been? What has our focus been on? Eternal things? Kingdom things? If most of us are honest… the answer would be No or not enough or only sometimes. Since you’re reading this magazine – it most likely puts you in the very top percentage of wealth on this planet. You already are blessed – big time. The time I spent in Nigeria was precious as I did a concert and had the opportunity to speak at a Purpose Driven Conference teaching Nigerian pastors. I saw the joy and happiness these people had – it was amazing. They were truly in love with God and focused on Him. I was told Nigeria was found to be the 3rd or 4th happiest nation in the world. The average person there makes $1,200 US dollars a year. Guess where America was on that list? You might think #1, right? Wrong… it was in the 20’s. I pray as you read this new issue that you’ll do some refocusing and you’ll be challenged by the articles and like the artist on our cover – learn to Rebel against the common blur in our culture. Readjusting my lenses,
Tommy aka Urban D.
S.O.U.L | Pg08
ABOUT THE EDITOR: +Tommy Kyllonen provides focus as he pastors, writes, rhymes, publishes, and parents with his wife Lucy @ Crossover Church in Tampa, Fla. – Check out his video teaching series “Tranzlations” @ w w w. u rb a n d . o rg
Table of Contents: Pg. 08: Editorial – Focus Pg. 12: Fest Welcome / Campus Map Pg. 13: Weekend Overview Pg. 14: Presenter Bios Pg. 16: Workshop Schedules Pg. 20: Fest Concert Line-Up Pg. 22: S.O.U.LNEWZ Pg. 24: You’ve got mail Pg. 26: From Milk to Meat Pg. 30: Respect Due: The Listener Pg. 32: Sicily’s Soul Pg. 33: Clok’s Resume Pg. 36: Rapzilla.com Pg. 37: Streamingfaith.com Pg. 38: R-Swift Pg. 42: All Eyes On Me Awards Pg. 44: Leadership Spotlight Pg. 48: Growth Pg. 54: Street Stories Pg. 56: Bushwick Bill Pg. 60: Lecrae Pg. 66: Krs-One Pg. 70: Focused Fashion Pg. 76: Grits Reiterate Pg. 78: Producer’s Corner w/ Tony Stone Pg. 81: On the 1’s and 2’s Pg. 82: Magic City Pg. 84: Rick Warren’s Civil Forum Pg. 88: Resource Reviews Pg. 90: Music Reviews Pg. 92: Movies That Teach Pg. 95: S.O.U.LPICS - UYWI 08’ Pg. 96: Final Thoughts
The S.O.U.L Team
Publisher: Tommy Kyllonen aka Urban D. Creative Director: Edward Bayonet aka SPE© Contributing Editors: Duane Custer, Kat Medrano, Lulianna Davila, Carrero, Maria Bass Contributing Writers: Janine Carrero, The Ambassador, Mario Armstrong, Rico James, Sketch The Journalist, Jessica Bayonet, Duane “Swing” Custer, Spyvey Giggles, Rawsrvnt, Zulu, Rachael Foss, Kat Medrano, and Aravany Review Team: Luther, Gary, Brovah Greg, Jaycen, Cisco, DJ Dash, Clok, Janine, Masheti, Marz and Roy Contributing Designers: Masheti Moses and G notes Design Department: spec@crossoverchurch.org Photographers: Brandon Brinkley and SPE© For information on Advertising visit: www.thesoulmag.com and check out the press kit for detailed demographics, ad rates, specs, and deadlines. Printed by www.adcoprinting.com in Tampa, Florida S.O.U.LMAG is published three times annually by Fla.vor Alliance Media Group and is a ministry publication of Crossover Church. Crossover Church is a non-profit 501©3. Crossover’s mission is: “To Relevantly introduce the truth of Christ to the hip-hop culture, as we develop worship, purpose, unity, and leadership in their lives.” S.O.U.LMAG exists to build on this mission as we take it to a national platform through print. S.O.U.LMAG / Crossover Church 7809 N. Orleans Ave. Tampa, Fla. 33604 office: (813) 935-8887 fax: (813) 935-0535
www.thesoulmag.com • www.crossoverchurch.org
FLAVOR FEST 2008 PAGES 12-21
S.O.U.LMAG is the official magazine for the annual Fla.vor Fest Conference. These next 10 pages are dedicated to all the events that are poppin’ off at this year’s Fest. If you’re reading this and you’re at the Fest our team would like to give you a huge WELCOME (bienviendos) to CROSSOVER in Sunny Tampa, FLA! We’re excited you came down to join us for an incredible weekend “Focused” with some inspiring workshops, innovative church services, dope festival concerts, and some fellowship that we’ll be talking about for eternity. Check out the campus map so you can know exactly where everything is located. The following pages contain the general schedule, a detailed workshop schedule, presenters biographies, and the concert line up for both stages for both nights. If you need more information you can stop by at the info. Booth on the patio and one of our Crossover volunteers will be happy to serve you. So, put your put your hands on your lenses and get ready to FOCUS!
WiFi available across the entire campus through Verizon Fios
3 2 1
10
9 4
8 5
11
15
12 7
13
6
14 16
8a Key Grid 1. 2. 3. 4.
Registration Prayer Patio (Outreach Workshop Track) Nursery Main Auditorium • (Emerging Urban Church Track & Syntax Stage) 5. Main Patio (Lunch is served here)
S.O.U.L | Pg12
6. Info. Area 7. Basketball Courts 8. Restrooms • (Portapotties are located next to Registration - 8a) 9. Hip-Hop Shop 10. Video Café • Artist Workshop Track & Vendors Alley at night)
11. 3-5 year old classroom space 12. Turnstyle (Worship Workshop) 13. SK8 Shop 14. SK8 Park (Youth Track & SteelRoots Stage) 15. Graffiti Expo. Wall 16. Intern House/kidz classroom space
Thursday November 6th 6:00pm 7:30-9:00pm 11:00pm
Registration Opens (Stays Open throughout the Night) Crossovers 3rd Rail Hip-Hop Teen Service Campus Closes
Friday November 7th 9:00am 9:00am-9:30am 9:30am 10:15am 10:30am 11:30am 11:45am 1:00pm 2:30pm 3:30pm 5:30pm 5:30pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 12:00pm
Registration Opens - Doors Open Worship/Prayer Main Auditorium with Bobby Roman Opening General Session Welcome! Break Into Workshops That Are Split Into Five Different Tracks First Workshop Session in Separate Tracks Break Second workshop session in separate tracks Lunch on patios (conference registrants only) General Session in Main Auditorium Basketball Game Pastors vs. Artist (optional) inside areas CLOSED Vendors Area Opens for Set up Tickets go on sale for concert / Food Sales Open on Patio Doors Open For Evening Concert Concert Ends Vendors area closes Campus Closes
Saturday November 8th 9:00am 9:00am-9:30am 9:30am 10:15am 10:30am 11:30am 11:45am 1:00pm 2:30pm 3:30pm 5:30pm 5:30pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 12:00pm
Registration Opens - Doors Open Worship/Prayer Main Auditorium with Crossover’s Harmony Opening General Session Welcome! Break Into Workshops That Are Split Into Five Different Tracks First Workshop Session in Separate Tracks Break Second workshop session in separate tracks Lunch on patios (conference registrants only) General Session in Main Auditorium Free Time until Evening Concerts inside areas CLOSED Vendors Area Opens for Set up Tickets go on sale for concert / Food Sales Open on Patio Doors Open For Evening Concert Concert Ends Vendors area closes Campus Closes
Sunday November 9th: (Three Services to Choose From) 10:00am
1st Sunday Vibe Service including hip-hop styled praise and worship with Harmony, special music and a message with Pastor Tommy (we suggest this service for seating purposes).
11:45am
2nd Sunday Vibe Service-same format as first service. Seating in the main auditorium is limited. *Additional seating will be available in our video venue once the main room is filled.
7:00pm
3rd Sunday Night Vibe. This will be the same format as the other services but there will be an added “Open Mic” this is open for Fla.vor Fest participants Children’s programming is available in all three services.
S.O.U.L | Pg13
Lecrae Moore - Reach Records/Reach Life - Memphis, TN
Lecrae’s goal is to represent Christ and a holy culture. Instead of forsaking his urban roots and flavor, he uses them to put Christ and the Bible in a light that rap fans can understand. Lecrae is an artist with Reach Records. He travels as an urban missionary doing concerts and speaking engagements. - www.reachrecords.com
Anthony Flynn - Urban Youth Workers Institute - Buena Park, CA
As a “Student of the Year” graduate (Bachelor in Business Administration) from the top sales program in the United States at The University of Memphis, Anthony was heavily recruited and/or employed by a number of Fortune 500 companies including Kraft Foods, Coca-Cola, Philip Morris, RJ Reynolds and 3M. After a stay in the corporate ranks, Anthony made the decision to devote his career to human capital development in the context of both the marketplace and non-profit world. In his primary role, Anthony currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer of UYWI, an international non-profit that exists to strengthen a new generation of global urban leaders for transformational ministry. - www.uywi.org
Lucy Kyllonen - Crossover Church - Tampa, FL
Lucy Kyllonen serves as the admin. at Crossover as well as the Women’s Ministry Director for C.H.O.S.E.N. She holds a BA in Psychology from Southeastern University and an MA in Mental Health Counseling from USF. Originally from New York, Lucy lives in Tampa and serves alongside her ministry partner and husband Tommy as they raise their 2 daughters Deyana and Sophia. - www.crosoverchurch.org
Bobby Roman - International Praise & Worship Artist - Tampa, FL
Bobby Roman’s career in music spans over 15 years. He has either performed with or recorded with such great talents as Andrae’ Crouch, Raul Malo of the “Mavericks”, Jennifer Lopez, Tito Puente and Celia Cruz, to name a few. Bobby finds great happiness in bringing people into a sense of spiritual strength and empowerment thru his Music. A quote from Andrae’ Crouch - “Bobby Roman has a fabulous anointed voice, and each time I have heard him sing, he sings like he is singing for the last time, with such energy and power. “ His is an inspirational soul motivating voice that must be heard! - www.bobbyroman.com
Tim Tradeu - Syntax Records - San Diego, CA
Tim Tradeu has always had a love for hip-hop and eventually got involved by starting truehiphop, the hip-hop group Sackcloth Fashion and then Syntax Records. Today, Syntax Records is its own label that has housed some of the biggest names in underground hip-hop on its roster (including Pigeon John, Kaboose, Braille, LA Symphony, RedCloud and others). Tim serves as president and manages a team of more than seven full-time employees. He also made a landmark deal with Koch Distribution that puts the albums of Syntax recording artists in stores across America. Many of those artists are touring full-time – hitting more than 150 cities. Their music is appearing in major motion pictures. All the while, Tim and his crew have never lost their focus. “We’re making music to change lives,” - www.syntaxrecords.com
Tommy Kyllonen A.K.A Urban D - Crossover Church - Tampa, FL
Tommy founded the youth ministry at Crossover in 1996 after graduating from Southeastern University with a BA in pastoral studies and a concentration in youth ministry. Starting with just four teens, he and his wife developed a first-of-its-kind Hip-Hop Youth Ministry. Tommy became the lead pastor at Crossover in 2002 as a new vision was birthed to specifically reach those influenced by Hip-Hop Culture. Urban D. has recorded 6 solo hip-hop CD’s with his latest CD/DVD set “Un.orthodox” released through EMI along with a book through Zondervan with the same title. - www.urband.org
Efrem Smith - The Sanctuary Covenant Church - Minneapolis, MN
Senior Pastor of The Sanctuary Covenant Church, Efrem Smith serves close to 1,000 people with the vision to be an urban, multi-ethnic, relevant, holistic and Christ-centered community. He is an internationally recognized leader, speaker, and consultant on diversity and multiethnic issues. Smith has held leadership positions in both church and Parachurch organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club of America and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He is the author of numerous articles and books, including The Hip Hop Church. - www.sanctuarycovenant.org
Tommy Carrington - Urban Training Network - Miami, FL
Dr. Carrington earned his Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology from Trinity International University, and the Doctor of Ministry from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, specializing in “Ministry in Complex Urban Settings.” Dr. Carrington currently serves as the President of the Urban Training Network, and also serves as an adjunct professor at Trinity International University / South Florida Campus, and at Palm Beach Atlantic University. He travels extensively, speaking at evangelistic rallies, high school outreaches, churches, camps, retreats and seminars for youth and adult leaders. - www.urbantrainingnetwork.org
Fred Lynch - Christ for the Nations Institute - Dallas, TX
After 20 years of service in youth evangelism and hip-hop ministry (P.I.D.) Fred Lynch is now based in Dallas, Texas where he lives with his wife D-Ann and their two children. Fred is the author of “The Script: A Hip-Hop Devotional through the Book of John”, adjunct instructor of evangelism at Christ for the Nations Institute and a member of the Youth Specialties CORE training team. - www.godstyle.com
Carla LaFayette - Urban Youth Workers Institute - Buena Park, CA
Carla LaFayette has been involved in youth ministry for over 20 years. After years of serving as a youth pastor she began directing ministries in parachurch organizations with emphasis on leadership and evangelism. Currently, she serves as the Vice President of Strategic Programs with UYWI where she leads teams to strengthen and develop urban youth workers for leadership. - www.uywi.org
S.O.U.L | Pg14
Edward Bayonet A.K.A Spec - Crossover Church - Tampa, FL
Edward “Spec” Bayonet is no stranger to the hip-hop culture. In the early 80’s, several family members were b-boys and graffiti artists around NYC. Growing up in NYC & Las Vegas, Spec was living a lifestyle that most watch on reality shows. After his final move to Tampa, FL Spec earned a high school diploma with a trade in Commercial Arts. He then attained two degrees in Graphics & Advertising. Currently Spec is Media Director at Crossover Church in Tampa. In 2008 Spec accepted a position as the Graphic Design Instructor at a local high school in Tampa, FL. - www.specademik.com
Amisho Lewis aka Sho Baraka - Reach Records/Reach Life - Memphis, TN
Sho Baraka is a Christian hip-hop artist who has recorded both independently and as a founding member of the 116 Clique. He is signed to Reach Records. His debut album Turn My Life Up was released in November, 2007. Living in Southern California during the height of gangsta rap presented its challenges to many youth, as well as Sho. In high school Sho and some friends from his neighborhood formed a rap group that began touring with major recording artists. But his life took a different turn after the rap group fizzled, and close friends were killed and others incarcerated due to the gang life they led. He decided to heed his father’s advice and apply to college, pursuing education instead of the streets. - www.reachrecords.com
Lily Lorenzo - Crossover Church - Tampa, FL
Lily has been attending Crossover since 2000. Lily has worked in business settings and sales in Tampa. Prior to being on staff, Lily worked for an international mortgage company and had a specialty of working with clients in their finances, home loan needs and specialized in foreclosure proceedings. Lily has been a part of the Flavor Fest planning team since 2000 and is now assisting Flavor Fest through administration, grant writing and conference planning in order to further fulfill the mission. Her love for seeing people grow in the word and get connected in relationships has led her to become Crossover’s small group director. - www.crossoverchurch.org
Benny Lopez aka Dj Lopez - Crossover Church - Tampa, FL
DJ Lopez is going on his 16 years of public school ministry. Over 5 local/state schools’ have been established and planted with the partnership of Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He’s currently developing a web-site that equips and empowers others to follow his lead. Completing his master’s at Nova University (Education Leadership) and undergrad at Southeastern University (Secondary Biology and General Science with a minor in theology), he hopes to complete his Ph. D in organizational management. He has been on several national albums and has used his skills for the Crossover Cypha’s and soon hopes to complete the 6th Cypha album. - www.djlopez.org
Steve Trudeau & Donnell Johnson - Syntax Records - San Diego, CA
Donell Johnson from Syntax records brings experience in copyrighting, negotiating master/sync licenses, handling PRO issues for our artists, and setting up conferences for his grass roots record label based out of San Diego. Steve Trudeau is the co-founder of Syntax Records, who maintains an impressive skill set, including creating press kits, developing marketing strategies, grassroots media campaigns, identifying opportunities for growth, managing complex relationships, identifying creative opportunities that fit budget constraints, stimulating press coverage, branding, and finding talent. - www.syntaxrecords.com
Derrick Colon - Crossover Church - Tampa, FL
Derrick was raised in the inner city of the South Bronx and knows all too well the culture of Hip-Hop. Being exposed to the movement from it’s beginning; his experience comes from first-hand exposure to it. After accepting Christ in 1991, God began to burden his heart to reach out to the very culture he came from. In 1997 he answered the call by going to Zion Bible Institute and graduating in 2001 with a B.A. in Pastoral Studies, with emphasis in Biblical Theology. He now pastors Crossover’syouth ministry, “3rd Rail”, a fast growing service that ministers to youth ages 11-19. - www.crossoverchurch.org
Tedashii Anderson - Reach Records/Reach Life - Memphis, TN
Tedashii “Tdot” Anderson is a Christian hip-hop artist who has recorded both independently and as a founding member of the 116 Clique. Tedashii is signed to Reach Records. His debut album Kingdom People was released in 2006. He is expected to release his second album in 2009. - www.reachrecords.com
REMIX Worship Team - Crossover Church - Tampa, FL
Led by Brandon, AKA Legacy, an artist, producer, and worshipper. Brandon is originally from Buffalo, New York but came to Florida as a teen coming to Christ at 17. He is a graduate of the School of Urban Mission (www.sum.edu) and has over 12 years ministry experience. Assisted by team leaders Naiomy and Jarille, who came to Florida with their families by way of Brooklyn, NY. For the past decade, Naiomy and Jarille have attended Crossover and have had the opportunity to watch the exponential growth of Crossover. - www.crossoverchurch.org
Ryan Flemming (DJ Rhino) - The Revolution Church - Gary, Indiana
Ryan graduated from Bethel College in 1997 with a B.A. in Christian Ministries. After college, he along with YSG Timothy, Combustible, AP, and DJ Allstar formed the hip hop crew Wax Muslim performing & releasing several CD’s. In 1999 he moved to Gary, IN as an Urban Missionary. He interned, served as a youth pastor, and worked as an associate pastor until 2005. Then, he and his wife began the process of starting The Revolution, an inner-city church plant in Gary targeting the Hip-Hop Culture. - myspace.com/churchremixed
Philip Rood - Rapzilla.com - Maple Grove, MN
Philip Rood grew up in Brussels, Belgium as a missionary’s kid and pastor’s kid. He is the founder and owner of Rapzilla.com (Online Christian Hip Hop magazine). He started it in 2003 at the age of 15. Today the website has grown to be one of the top Christian Hip Hop websites of the industry. His goal is to expand in reaching the hip-hop generation for Christ. - www.rapzilla.com
Brovah Greg Cowans - Crossover Church - Tampa, FL
Greg Cowans has served as the Hip-Hop shop leader for the last 3 years. Born and raised in Tampa he built a relationship with Christ at a teen camp during his senior year in high school. Gregg is committed to promoting the Holy Hip-Hop Movement by all means necessary until the culture is redeemed. Gregg is father of one adult and three teens. - www.crossoverchurch.org
S.O.U.L | Pg15
9:30AM
General Session (Main Auditorium) w/ Lucy Kyllonen “Living in a Self-focused culture…” We live in a self-centered world where people are into individualism, secularism and narcissism. Much of this is magnified in the urban community as many are in survival mode. The effects have been devastating. As the opening session kicks off it will set the stage for leaders to do a self-inspection to see where our personal Focus is…
Break Into Five Separate Workshops Tracks
Track One: Emerging Urban Church 10:30AM
“The Realities of Planting a Church Targeting Hip Hop Culture” w/ Ryan Flemming (DJ Rhino) - Pastor of The Revolution Church in Gary, Indiana “Hip Hop Church” has created a buzz. But, what is beyond the hype? Using current experiences planting The Revolution as a backdrop, we will briefly explore what a hip hop church is and its benefits, expose real challenges unique to planting this type of church, as well as discover some practical ways to be effective.
11:45AM
Hip-Hop, Postmodernism and Theology w/ Efrem Smith - Senior Pastor of The Sanctuary Covenant Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota This workshop will connect hip-hop postmodernism and theology in order to make a case for why the church should engage the culture of hip-hop.
Track Two: Hip-Hop Youth Ministry 10:30AM
“Till the Culture Knows.” w/ Derrick Colon - Youth Pastor of Crossover Church in Tampa, FL As so many urban youth ministries struggle to reach those outside the church, some wonder if it’s even worth the stress. As Hip-Hop grips the attention of our communities and beyond, what can we do to tip the scales in our favor. “Till the culture knows” will examine small tipping points that can help move you from the 20, 30, or 40 youth that come to your spot, to 100 or more. While it is not about numbers, numbers represent souls. We will look at how to get them in the door, having exciting youth services, how to implement follow up, how to disciple the culture and hanging in their world. Pastor derrick will use 3rd rail’s own mission and vision philosophy to help others reach the culture.
11:45AM
“Being Relevant Without Compromise” w/ Tommy Carrington - President of the Urban Training Network in Miami, FL Many youth groups feel “stuck” because they are limited in what they do. This workshop will lay out a biblical foundation for your group to be contemporary and relevant without compromising the Gospel Message.
S.O.U.L | Pg16
Track Three: The Artist In Ministry And Industry 10:30AM
The Secrets to Promote and Market Your Music Online
11:45AM
Do I Need To Be Signed?
w/ Philip Rood aka DJ Zilla of Rapzilla.com How to market and promote you and your music online with or without a budget. Beyond the box of only MySpace and word of mouth, but taking full advantage of the Internet’s potential to reach and impact millions of listeners around the world.
w/ Tim & Steve Trudeau of Syntax Records Many subscribe to the theory that you need to be signed in order to make any headway. Come to this class to find out if being on a label is truly necessary for success in the music industry. The nature of this question will allow us to cover a wide array of subjects including marketing in a 2.0 world. Moderated by Tim Trudeau president of Syntax Records, this panel discussion will include artists, label staff, and yourself.
Track Four: Outreach Track 10:30AM
History of the Hip.Hop.Shop
11:45AM
Creative Arts Roundtable w/ SPE© & Friends
w/ Gregg Owens & Chris Chapman of Crossover Church - Tampa, FL Crossover has a second hip-hop shop location at The International Flea Market located on the corner of Nebraska and Fowler in Tampa. This serves as a great platform to get in the marketplace in our community and mix it up with people. Crossover has a 10x10 foot booth with glass countertop CD cases, light boxes, a sound system and 2 flat screen TVS. We have a variety of CD’s, DVD’s, Magazines, books and Bibles available for purchase...but much greater than that its main function is to connect with people spiritually and let them know about Crossover. Countless flyers and FREE CDs and magazines are handed out by our volunteers that staff our booth.
w/ Edward Bayonet A.K.A SPE© - Media Director of Crossover Church - Tampa, FL A Graphics/Media Artists Forum. This will be the fourth time this gathering has happened. The idea of getting together with others that either work in the field or have in interest in graphic/media realm was by Ben Eash of UYWI. Spec had the privilege to take part in this discussion two years in a row at UYWI in Asuza, CA. Spec also facilitated a discussion at last years Flavor Fest. Here we go again. If you’re a designer, videographer, photographer, or need some direction in this field... Come join Spec and his team of panelists as we sit and discuss ideas, concepts, thoughts resources and more.
Track Five: Worship Track 10:30AM
The Journey of Worship
11:45AM
“The Worship of Moses” Intimacy with God
w/ Lily Lorenzo - Small Groups Director of Crossover Church - Tampa, FL Worship has many different stereotypes, but where did worship practices really come from and how does it relate to our personal journey? This workshop will take a look at Worship through our lifestyle in ministry and how that all fits in with our journey through discipleship.
w/ Bobby Roman - International Praise & Worship Artist Intimacy with God, Moses spoke to God face to face, we will look at the humility of Moses and how he cried out to God. (Be with my mouth, integrity and obedience)
1:00pm - Lunch on the patio 2:30PM
Friday Afternoon General Session w/Fred Lynch “Holy Tension” Hip-Hop is once again at a crossroads. God has given us a chance to speak up for the poor, shout the truth to the power and show forth the praises of him…but you have to survive the holy tension!
S.O.U.L | Pg17
9:30AM
Saturday Morning General Session w/ Lecrae Moore “Price of a Gift?” What comes along with being “gifted”? In this general session Lecrae will dissect what a heart behind a gifted person should look like.
Break Into Five Separate Workshops Tracks
Track One: Emerging Urban Church 10:30AM
Engaging Hip Hop Culture for Kingdom Purposes w/ Efrem Smith - Senior Pastor of The Sanctuary Covenant Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota This workshop will explore a theology and practical ministry models for connecting hip hop culture, evangelism and social justice. We will also explore using hip hop elements within worship as a tool for community transformation.
11:45AM
Evangelism/Follow Up/Assimilation w/ Tommy Kyllonen aka Urban D. - Pastor of Crossover Church - Tampa, FL Most churches have several first time guests every week. If a church adds that up it’s usually hundreds over the course of a year. What do we do with those guests and how do we get them plugged in? In this session Pastor Tommy will share how Crossover has done some huge outreach Sundays in 2008 and what steps have been taken to follow up on those guests and get them connected.
Track Two: Hip-Hop Youth Ministry 10:30AM
Rap it, Tag it, Speak it, Flip it: Getting Kids to Experience God’s Word in a Fresh Way w/ Fred Lynch - Adjunct Instructor of Evangelism at Christ for the Nations Institute in Dallas, TX As communicators of truth, one of our greatest tasks is to make the Bible come alive & relevant to teens. Discover how to share the Word of God in exciting new ways. Learn new scriptures and recall scripture previously memorized. Become skilled at training students to think, speak and act from a scriptural basis.
11:45AM
Public Schools “The Search for Significance” Benny Lopez aka Dj Lopez - Public School Teacher in Tampa, FL Creative strategies for entering into public schools, creating a campus ministry, building a bridge between church and school and empowering the youth through various activities.
S.O.U.L | Pg18
Track Three: The Artist In Ministry And Industry 10:30AM
The Church & The Emcee Reach Ministries - Amisho Lewis aka Sho Baraka This workshop will answer questions relevant to the culture. How important is the local church to the Emcee? How important is the Emcee to the local church? Can we separate the two and still be fruitful?
11:45AM
Publishing: The Most Consistent Cash Flow in Music w/ Syntax Records Co-founders, Steve Trudeau & Donnell Johnson As CD sales decline, gas prices increase hitting the tour bus and labels & distributors file bankruptcy, many wonder where the future of music is headed. Since the early 1900’s there has been a consistent and large flow of income from those who understand publishing and have their set up properly. Come to this class to learn more about what you need to do, to make sure your publishing is in order.
Track Four: Outreach Track 10:30AM
Sharing Faith in a Faithless World: Evangelizing Urban Yout w/ Carla LaFayette - Vice President of Strategic Programs with the Urban Youth Workers Institute Do you have a hard time understanding this emerging generation and knowing how to reach them for Christ? How should a changing culture affect our approach to the Gospel? This session will present an overview of some of those cultural shifts, examine pros & cons of various evangelism styles and provide some guidelines for a more Socratic approach of evangelism that works with urban youth.
11:45AM
True Contentment w/ Tedashii Anderson of Reach Records Often it is the issue of contentment that escapes us far before sin ever enters in. Do we walk in godly contentment? This workshop will help you understand outreach through living a life of influence.
Track Five: Worship Track 10:30AM
A Breakdown of Worship at Crossover w/ Crossover’s Worship Team “REMIX” An analysis of how Harmony incorporates the elements of Hip Hop with worship. We will focus on the humble beginnings, its current state, and its future visions.
11:45AM
Don’t Talk About It, Be About It w/ Anthony Flynn - Chief Operating Officer of the Urban Youth Workers Institute It’s been stated that the best sermon one can preach is the one he/she lives. With the influx of social concerns, ministry demands and the increasing pace of life, ministry leaders can find themselves having their lives crowded out with doing ministry more than living ministry. This workshop will teach ministry leaders practical ways to make worship and ministry a lifestyle. Join us and your life will never be the same!
1:00pm - Lunch on the patio 2:30PM
Saturday Afternoon General Session w/ Urban D. “Un.certain… where are we headed?”
The Housing Market has crashed, the Stock Market has crashed and unemployment is reaching new highs as the layoffs continue to grow each day. They say this is the worst economic time since The Great Depression. People are scared. What do we, as church leaders have to say to this? How do we respond? How can we make moves and make plans in times like these? Don’t miss this closing general session as Urban D. shares some Biblical truths and some practical applications as we look at where we’re headed.
S.O.U.L | Pg19
CONCERT DETAILS: • Doors open @ 7pm (both nights) • only $10.00 @ the door • limited to the first 1,200 guests • fest registrants get in free with badge)
S.O.U.L | Pg20
shai linne
mars iLL
lisa mcClendon
sharlok poems
hansoul
g-notes
jahaziel
urban d.
tedashii
propaganda
lecrae
c.l.o.k.
c-rob
sho baraka
hazakim
odd thomas
magellan
soulfire min.
kb
r-swift
spanish kid
g.t.k.
kaboose
sev statik
carlito p
alpha simplicity
g-86
dj morphiziz
b-holy
eric e.
fynishline
jabo
In the Turnstyle Room: FRI. Night: 2 on 2 B-Boy Competition for $200! SAT. Night: Break Dancing Expo
r-swift
lecrae
m2b
tedashii
lisa mcClendon
dj promote
sho baraka
shai linne
mark-j
jahaziel
mars iLL
big al
jo bless
dubl portion
rawsrvnt
saylah
short tee
convicted
kb
che-che
joe justiz
masheti moses
nue breed Steelroots Concert Stage will close @ 10pm both nights.
S.O.U.L | Pg21
LECRAE’S “REBEL” (Our cover artist) HIT THE #1 ALBUM IN THE COUNTRY. ALBUM ALSO LANDS IN MULTIPLE TOP SALES CHART POSITIONS… The highly anticipated album from Lecrae hit the No. 1 Gospel album in the country according to Billboard’s Top Gospel charts the week of it’s Release. The Reach Records recording artist and Dove Award Nominee released his junior album, “Rebel,” on Sept. 30 and immediately appeared on iTunes’s Top Rap/Hip Hop Album chart in the No. 3 position just below T.I.’s “Paper Trail.” “Rebel” also claimed Billboard’s No. 8 position on the Top Rap Album mainstream chart as well as the No. 3 position on Billboard’s Top Christian & Gospel Album chart. Breaking his own record with multiple sales chart appearances, “Rebel” is now the highest debuting album in the Christian Rap industry, and Lecrae is proof that the ministry of Christ-centered Gospel Rap is truly a form of music that we should all pay close attention to. President of ReachLife Ministries, Lecrae is most recognized for hit singles ‘Jesus Muzik’ and ‘Prayin For You’ from his groundbreaking sophomore CD, “After The Music Stops.” Even after releasing in 2006 with a debut in the No. 5 position on Billboard charts, the album continues to appear on the Top Christian Rap/R&B charts and sits currently at the No. 3 position.
Syntax Recording artist Braille lends his lyrical skills to EA Sports’ NBA Live 2009. “I’ve always loved NBA Live. I can remember playing NBA Live ‘95 with my friends during school. The game brings back instant memories of my teenage years and having my song in the game is definitely one of the highlights in my career so far,” Braille says. “Moments like this inspire me to keep giving 100 percent and further increase my passion and a purpose for music.”The IV Edition dropped April 15th on Syntax Records to critical acclaim, earning rave reviews from All Music Guide’s JoAnne Greene – which called Braille’s rhymes “eloquent” and “a powerful foundation of advice, self-observance, and self-awareness, with a sharp eye for the larger picture.” Upcoming Releases:
MARK J
Album Titled: “An Everyday World” Release Date: 1st Quarter 2009 “This new album has been inspired by all of the international touring I’ve been doing lately. Acts 1:8 commands us to take Gospel from the block to the world. I felt that I’ve tackled Judea’s and Samaria’s on previous albums. I wanted to focus on the “uttermost parts” on this new one. I believe sin is a universal problem and the universal answer is found in Jesus Christ. Sonically, this album is on a whole other level and lyrically I’m targeting some global issues from a biblical vantage point. This joint is definitely a step up from “SOULutions” so I know cats will dig it.”
BOBBY BISHOP
Album Titled: “Launch” “My new project ‘Launch drops spring 2009 on Chosen/EMG/Universal. This is my first distributed release in four years, and my most refined work to date. Production from Battleaxe, DJ Shok, Halo Productions, G Styles, JB Rye, and more have helped me and and my team (Halo Productions) redefine my sound. I’venever been so excited to drop a record as I am right now. I’ve got some special guests even I didn’t see coming! I’ve been touring with my label mates, The Wrecking, as we bring our multimedia event, “One Shot,” to stages around the country. I’m looking forward to ministering in your city, get at me!”
DJ PROMOTE
Album Titled: “WAGES OF SYNTAX 2” The Wages of Syntax is a well crafted “best of” that comes in the form of a mix-tape. Blended by Syntax’s own DJ Promote this disc takes you on a ride through the hope-inspired conscious hip-hop put out by one of Southern California’s most innovative musical outfits. This release has the Physical retailers in mind! It WILL NOT be available digitally for download! Featuring: Braille, Kaboose, RedCloud, L.A. Symphony, Pigeon John, Tonex, Othhelo, Def Shepard, Grits, Soul P, Manchild, K-drama, Playdough, Sivion, Freddie Bruno, and many more. In stores November 11 - priced at $6.98 retail with 23 songs – it’s an incredible deal! - Stay on the look out for Applejaxx new album that will release in 2009 entitled “Born Identity”. - Reach Records is also planning to release Tedashii’s next solo album “Identity Crisis” in 2009.
More details to come, stay tuned on Rapzilla.com
S.O.U.L | Pg22
Subject: Lovin’ The Mag…
I got a copy of the S.O.U.LMAG and I’m loving the quality and the content of it. It’s obvious ya’ll are keeping Christ truly in the center of it! Keep up the great work – I’m going to the website to get the back issues. - Lesa
RE: Gracias!
Subject: Greetings from Ghana
Greetings! My name is Bernard Acguah-Minnie, a twenty-two year old Christian student from Ghana. I am focused on developing my spiritual growth and improving my evangelism techniques. I have a great interest in Christian hip-hop and R& B. There is a Christian music program called 1 Cubed. It is aired on a local television station called TV Africa here. This is how I got connected with the Christian hip-hop scene. I also heard Urban D.’s podcast and watched some videos from the church. I will say a big Thank You for making the gospel easier for the younger generations. Yours faithfully, - Bernard
RE: Big up!s to 1 Cubed for getting the word out in Africa
Subject: Oh-lah, Oh-lah, Hey!
Thanks for the story covering my man “Play”. I’m originally from NYC and I remember how they (Kid N’ Play) was makin’ major noise back in the day. It’s dope to see what God is doing in his life and how he’s using his influence and his gifts to now rep for Christ! Peace! - Johnny
RE: Play also came to Crossover recently and he repped Christ to the fullest… all the New Yorkers were madd hype…
Subject: Indonesian Hip-Hop…
Hey guys, we’ve really been inspired by Urban D.’s American Dream and Un.orthodox songs. God has blessed our crew with the chance to release our first Christian hip-hop album. This will be a break through for Indonesia. We expect to inspire lots of young people inside and outside the church to be relevant in these modern times. I know you guys don’t know us, but we believe that what you do through the church, the music and the magazine is magnificent. If it’s not too much to ask – please pray for us. - The Disciples (myspace.com/disciplesindonesia)
RE: Of course it’s not too much to ask us to pray for you…as a matter of fact – we put it in the mag – now you got thousands of heads praying for ya’ll. Check out their myspace peoples .......some Indonesian hip-hop for Christ…it’s crazy!
We’d love to hear your feedback... either visit us online @ www.thesoulmag.com and shoot us an email or send it the ol’ fashion way to: SOULMAG - 7809 N. Orleans Ave Suite #2. Tampa, FL 33604 We look forward to hearing from you! - The S.O.U.LMAG Team ;)
S.O.U.L | Pg24
Let’s “chop it up.” Let’s put a weighty matter on the table and dissect it until we can digest it, digest it until we possess it, and possess it so that we reflect it. Who talks like this; who welcomes this kind of thinking or this kind of activity? Paul said that “the mature do,” they embrace the idea of straining and agonizing to take hold of maturity (Phil 3:15). Welcome to my new syndicated column “The Chop Chop” where we advocate unpacking meatier matters of faith and culture for the benefit of our souls. This is only possible because God has provided everything we need to live a quality life of godliness (2 Pet 1:3). What could be worse than someone with abundant resources who produces little or nothing? It’s like the person with an in-home state-of the-art gym who never displays one ounce of fitness. Although they have everything needed to get results, they don’t produce. This could be said of the believer in Jesus Christ who has been granted the power of the indwelling Spirit, the Scriptures—which are able to make one wise—the community of faith—which provide support and accountability—an eternal inheritance that can’t be stolen, and the promise that the God of heaven and earth is for them—yet they never mature. My third album The Chop Chop, implores listeners to follow the exhortation of the writer to the Hebrews who encouraged wavering believers to combat their spiritual flightiness and flakiness by leaving the elementary teachings of Christ and going on to maturity (Heb 6:1). Similarly, “The Chop Chop” column is purposed to encourage and equip us to move from milk to meat, as we counter-culturally opt to tussle in the study and in the “prayer closet” as a sign of our commitment to know our God and be like Him.
S.O.U.L | Pg26
Like Paul had a unique burden for his people, Israel, I have one for the urban context (especially the hip hop generation). As a student of culture, I have become convinced of the need for a paradigm shift. By watching the ebb and flow of hip hop history I have seen every coast, region, style, and vibe have its time to shine and lead the culture. I can remember when almost everyone in the hip hop community looked to New York City for their marching orders, today it is arguably Atlanta. Similarly, intellectual hip hop transitioned to “gangsta rap,” party rap, “crunk rap,” and now “clap and snap” rap. Complexity gave way to simplicity, and social conscience surrendered to sensual seduction.
“
I have been to countless churches where an unopened
Bible was the norm.
As a missional Christian laboring in the urban mission field, I nearly salivate at the prospect of an increased appetite for theological weight approaching. I believe that many of us are being provoked to desire a more substantive era in music and art. Palates are maturing and hunger is developing for a more meaty diet of spiritual nutrition. Naturally, babies go from desiring a bottle, to what is on their parents’ plates, and I believe this is a spiritual reality as well. Therefore, I welcome you to “The Chop Chop,” where truth is broken down, rather than dumbed down, so that its nutrients can benefit our inner most being. The phrase, “chop it up” or for short “chop chop” presupposes: The need to “chop” itself is an admission that some things we need are too much for us until they are broken down. Peter admitted this about the writings of Paul which he referred to as the Scriptures in 2 Pet 3:16. Also, the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8:30-31 wrestled with a passage from the book of Isaiah, before realizing his need for guidance in understanding the text. Likewise, we admit that what we need is sometimes too much for us based on where we are at that time. The understanding that all Scripture is God’s word, and is profitable for holistically preparing us for every good work (1 Tim 3:16). Rather than avoiding what challenges us and making a bline to the simple things, we must do what Acts 2:42 reveals the early Christians did—devote ourselves to what is being taught, and like Psalm 1 meditate on it, day and night.
Wouldn’t this encourage the hearts of parents, pastors, and peers alike? Rarely do you see the Scriptures as the center of the party and the after party. Usually, we are ready to close the book and get on with the “real” fun. In fact, I have been to countless churches where an unopened Bible was the norm. But, I have seen—and foresee—a shift taking place! The Scriptures are no longer something we “get out the way” but the foundation we build even our extra-curricular activities around. Can you imagine teens and young adults spending more time in libraries than in front of the Xboxes? What would happen in a world where we prefer God-honoring music to the “soft porn” of pop culture? I envision ruff-necks in a circle discussing our historic faith and its current relevance. I see men and women who want more than just a “shout” on Sunday, but extended time in the Scriptures chewing the meat, breaking down the bone to savor the marrow. Come with me and let’s intentionally grow from milk to meat. •••
Join The Ambassador’s mobile community to download a free wallpaper and an exclusive preview from his forthcoming CD The Chop Chop by texting Ambassador to 66937. Visit him at:
theambassadoronline.com myspace.com/ambassador215 epiphanyfellowship.org
A graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary, urban missionary and Christian Hip Hop artist William “Duce” Branch a.k.a The Ambassador is the co-planter and co-pastor of Epiphany Fellowship in Philadelphia, PA—where he serves as a Teaching Pastor. The GRAMMY, Stellar and GMA Dove Award nominee has toured globally as a solo artist and with The Cross Movement and been covered by media outlets as diverse as Time Magazine, CCM Magazine, VIBE, The Source, Billboard and The Washington Post, Philadelphia Inquirer and more.
Artist: The Ambassador Album: The Chop Chop Tracks: 19 Label: Cross Movement Records Release Date: Sept. 23, 2008 Availability: Nationwide
In the title track “The Chop Chop,” the second verse opens up: “lets get a cypha, I’m hyped because the Bible’s coming out/ I know you’re crunk but do you know the God you’re crunk about?”
Check the links provided to listen to the full song and lyrics:
MP3: myspace.com/ambassador215 Lyrics: upliftgroup.com/upliftgroup/TCCLyrics.pdf
S.O.U.L | Pg27
Un.orthodox - church.hip-hop.culture [Book and CD/DVD in stores now] “5 star rating. In this book, lead pastor Tommy Kyllonen equips church leaders to effectively engage hip-hop culture.” - Rick Warren’s Ministry Toolbox “Anyone reading this book would be enlightened about new ideas and finding encouragement related not only to hip-hop but also to surrounding culture. With it’s three sections giving a broad overview of Kyllonen’s journey to Crossover pastor, the history of hip-hop, and incorporating the church into its surroundings, Un.orthodox becomes a must have on the bookshelves of any growing church.” - Publishers Weekly
Now Available:
exclusively on iTunes and at Urband.org
“Home” feat. Bobby Tinsley (cd+video)
Coming Jan. 2009 The Hustle project + video...
Yes, yes... check out Urban D.’s new video teaching series “Tranzlations” at www.urband.org as he tranzlates the truths of scripture to the culture. Urban D. is now booking for “THE GROWTH TOUR” - go to page 48 for more details... Urban D. is available for concerts, conferences, workshops, speaking, youth groups, retreats, school assemblies, camps and more. Check out www.urband.org for booking info., tour dates, videos, music, news, articles, and more.
+ Exclusive instrumentals, accapellas, and remix albums on iTunes.
>>RESPECTDUE<< artist on the move::
“
shaped and created one of the most unique voices in Talk Music.
AND WHEN THE MUSIC STOPS, ALL WE HAVE ARE WORDS MERELY. SO LISTEN UP, THEY’RE NOT TAKING YOU SERIOUSLY.”
Homes, bars, basements, concert halls, and silence have all opened
The lights might be low, orange, or yellow, but the sound is unmis-
His current body of work echoes the efforts of Bill Mallonee, Leon-
takable. An anthology of sampled rythyms, pops, and crashes come
ard Cohen, Chuck D, Tom Waits, and Dave Bazan. Smith emphati-
together with drums and guitar. Grenades cascade into the forgot-
cally punches and counterpunches with the same vital lyricism as the
ten underbelly of Middle America, and at last words rise to shake the
aforementioned Mallonee and Bazaan, turning his full attention to the
audience from the malaise of celebrity and consuming. Sweat pours
story and tragedy of America’s unremembered and uncelebrated mul-
through the beard on his face, consonants and vowels fight to be the
titudes. The stories of salesmen and waitresses, mothers and fathers,
first out of his mouth. There is an urgent desperation to his voice. Lis-
husbands and wives. Those just trying to make it, and those who have
ten now. Listen closely. Keep listening. They are censuring a country,
forgotten how. Telling these gothic tales of downfall and redemption,
they are assessing the audience, they are exhorting everyone, and
Smith hopes to ask one burning question, “Why does is it take my
delivering the State of our Union.
voice to make you listen?”
Hundreds upon hundreds of shows, well over a hundred thousand
Pay attention. Stay sharp. Listen closely. The stories, the music,
miles, dozens of countries, three continents, and two oceans have
it is our music, it is our story. We are all Listeners.
their doors to Listener Project’s singular version of Talk Music. Listener Project’s, Dan Smith, had at one point put away his pen and left the sphere of music behind. However despite a willingness to embrace the certain uncertainty of the middle class, the world, his past, present, and future, would not be silent. And if one thing has defined Smith, it is this: He is a listener.
Try and keep up with The Listener: listenerproject.com listenertourofhomes.com myspace.com/listenerproject deepspace5.com
S.O.U.L | Pg30
S.O.U.L: It’s tha Goddaughter that flows, an armor bearing rose… So tell us, what’s good? SICILY: We’ve just started “Shake Tha Ground Ministries” including Sicily, El Profeta, Meta4 and
Nimzaj Espada which is founded under the word of God in Habakkuk 3:6 where it says, “He stood, and shook the earth; he looked, and made the nations tremble. The ancient mountains crumbled and the age-old hills collapsed. His ways are eternal!” For the inspiration of up and coming artists – shout out to K.B, 2nd Chaynce, and Cord of Three. Our crew’s mission statement is “To Bring change to a world of CONFORMITY, through the power of the word of God that will tremble the nations.”
S.O.U.L: As one of God’s Queens in Rap Music, what advice do you have for today’s princess? SICILY: Every female is a Queen in God’s eyes. So ladies break your routines. When you obey, that’s when God does bigger things.
S.O.U.L: How does God speak to you and what’s the funniest thing He’s said so far? SICILY: One day God put it in my heart to give a lady some lint from my pocket. I felt mad awkward. But the message
was so strong. I approached the lady, and even though I felt like a weirdo, I offered her the lint from my pocket. Her face changed. She said “You don’t know what you just did. Somebody at my job was talking about God and I argued with them. They told me to ask God to show Himself. I needed to know that He is real so I asked for something I was positive would NEVER happen! The lint you gave me shows me that God is real.”
S.O.U.L: Who are your favorite bible characters? SICILY: On the real, I gotta say Job is a favorite. I just think that somebody who serves no matter what happens is a powerful thing! Today when a friend tells us to turn our back on God, too many of us cave in under pressure.
S.O.U.L: Knowing the best is yet to come, what are your dreams and hope for the culture? SICILY: We got to strengthen our unity to show the world that we respect God above all else.
S.O.U.L | Pg32
Name: C.L.O.K. // Date: Eternity // Spervising Interviewer: Swing // Position applying for: My Place in Hip Hop Reasons you feel you deserve this position: Check “The Resume”! There are certain people that when you meet them you feel as if you truly desire to be around because you know you’ll walk away touched and encouraged. I’m talking about the kind of person that doesn’t drain you when you walk away from them but someone you enjoy and look forward to see each time. Charles Languedoc is one of those guys. If you spend 15 minutes talking to him you get a refreshing perspective on different things from sports, music and most importantly how to be a great front line soldier. At first glance, you wouldn’t expect this mild manner brotha has a lot to say. He doesn’t make it his business to be known as the loudest dude in the building or the most seen but the most felt by his actions. Actually you’ll catch him every Sunday pointing people to the best places to park their cars at Crossover Church as he leads the parking team. He’s a true servant. Yet for the lucky few who’ve heard him vent his creative flow on wax - they have been blessed and had their mind blown by his skill. I recently sat down to go over his paperwork and with high recommendations I introduce to you, C.L.O.K.
Swing: Explain the significance behind your stage name C.L.O.K. C.L.O.K: It’s an acronym for some of the qualities of our savior: Christ. Lord. Omnipotent. King. Just like time I can’t be stopped - lol. You have to have confidence in your gift that God has blessed you with, not to be arrogant but in any job or field one should strive to be the best. Jesus was the most confident person to walk the earth, so confident that he started to walk on water… when Peter asked to walk on water, Jesus said, “Come on!” I’m trying to walk on water with this music.
Swing: Do you ever listen to your music and say, “dag, did I just write that?” C.L.O.K: I do sometimes because I do feel that I’m nice… I think every emcee does that somewhat, but I’ve learned that with every song that I do, not everyone is going to like it regardless of how good I might think it is… and that’s ok. I’ve learned as an artist I have to be my own number one fan and my own worst critic at the same time.
C.L.O.K: He loved my music and he encouraged me to follow my dreams, my dad had very little education but he was a smart man... before he started to get ill he had his own private limousine service, so he never had an excuse because of his upbringing. Even after he got ill and he wasn’t able to drive he started a car detailing business. I miss him.
Swing:
release?
Okay, that makes sense. You’re a member of Crossover Church in Tampa. What have you learned beyond music from your time there? C.L.O.K: The people there are about serving and reaching the community. I’ve learned that I can be transparent without worrying about being judged because the people there actually do care about what’s going on in your life and it’s good when you have people that you can be real with and accountable to.
Swing: Yeah that tight family feel is something that most didn’t come from. Tell me about your influences in your family. Was there anybody in your upbringing that encouraged your relationship with Christ? C.L.O.K: Well my mom did good by bringing us to church every Sunday when we were small but my dad never went… so as a child I guess I had that mentality that if my dad isn’t going to church and doesn’t have a relationship with God then why do I have to? Because you look up to your dad and you’re going to do what he does… but I don’t blame him because his dad died when he was a child so he did the best he knew how to. Swing:
Speaking of your father, you recently lost him (May God bless him), what did he think about your music?
Swing:
Tell us about your upcoming
C.L.O.K: My upcoming release is my debut album; it’s called “The Resume”. It’s my application into Hip-Hop and I’ve been working on it seriously for about 2 years. I want a job that I love to do full-time and my album is my “resume” showing my qualifications as to why I should be hired. Shout out to my producer Beatsmith, he’s a genius! Swing: So
what do you think are the most important factors to remember as a Christian artist? C.L.O.K: In John 17:15 Jesus prays to the father and says, “My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.” As a Christian artist don’t be afraid to do shows in Clubs and venues where the majority of people might not want to hear what you are talking about. If you’re an ill emcee you’re an ill emcee regardless of your message. We are called to be the light to the darkness but many times we don’t go to where it’s dark to shed that light. “They say my flow’s like water/ I’m like, nah, it’s like a dolphin in the water/ gettin’ chased by a killer whale Orka…” Check out C.L.O.K.’s new release “The Resume” and unreleased tracks at:
www.clokmusic.com www.myspace.com/clocksword S.O.U.L | Pg33
written by: Rawsrvnt
For those of you who don’t know about Rapzilla.com, it is an online Christian Hip-Hop Magazine founded by Philip Rood. Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma but raised in Brussels, Belgium (a country in Europe), Philip grew up listening to hip-hop on the mission fields of Brussels as his parents were missionaries. “I grew up in a Christian household which I’m very grateful for,” Philip says. “I’m not exactly sure how old I was when I was born again since I would ask Jesus a lot (starting at a young age) to come into my heart and that I believed He died and resurrected on the cross for me. So I can’t really give an exact age (when I started a relationship with Christ).” Regardless of not knowing his age when he committed his life to Christ, he does know that in 2003 (at the tender age of 15) he came onto the online community scene to “grow Christian Hip-Hop’s awareness.” “I started Rapzilla.com around March 2003 (launched in September 2003). The vision was to start an online magazine that would cover ALL Christian Hip-Hop artists. Give them a venue to get heard. Not only to cover the national artists but also the unknown and indie artists. At the time there was only a few websites with little content and news. We wanted to become a website covering and informing the latest news, and content you couldn’t find anywhere else.” On a mission to share the Gospel through hip-hop to people all over the world, Philip started noticing just how ignorant people we’re to the genre and with conviction felt that Christian Hip-Hop couldn’t be kept a secret any longer. “Christian Hip-Hop has powerful lyrics and words. I believe its God’s will that this genre needs to grow with the powerful messages in and behind the songs that are life changing!” As one fighting for the cause I totally feel what Phil is saying. Matter of fact, that’s a HUGE reason why I grabbed the mic and started rappin’ for Jesus. I got so tired of the ill messages that people were sharing (through their music) that were leading people down a road filled with drama. In growing my relationship with Christ I was like ‘Lord, You’re so cool. I can’t believe they just don’t know how cool You are!’ So I took my talent, invested in it and dug deeper into the heart of God so I could effectively share His awesome love with people. “We in the Christian Hip-Hop genre should be the examples for the Mainstream HipHop world.” With his bows still up ready to fight, Phil continues his pep talk by saying, “In the ‘hip-hop’ world, it seems everyone listens to the secular to get ideas or new sounds or to see what’s hot to make a ‘Christian’ version (of) or mainly to compare the Christian scene to the secular scene. I don’t need to listen to what’s hot in the secular to figure out what’s hot in the Christian Hip-Hop scene. Music is music. Christians making music should get their inspiration from God and be the first ones to experiment with new sounds that the secular would want to go after and not the other way around. Secular music shouldn’t determine what our Christian music should sound like.” WOW! Holla back! I feel like this is my brother from another mother! Yo…I’ve been saying this for years! And since God’s in the business of making us smile and giving us our hearts desires, Rapzilla.com continues to grow since their birth. With 300 visits per day in its infancy, now seasoned and much older Rapzilla.com hones in over 300,000 visitors per year averaging to be about 1,500 visits per day. Rapzilla.com has quickly become a leading online source for Christian Hip-Hop worldwide. And to think, it just started with a man named Phil that loves Jesus and wanted to share God’s love through hip-hop to people who didn’t know much about it. So what’s the future look like for Rapzilla.com? “Rapzilla has a lot of plans to grow and impact the music industry more then ever,” Philip says. “Rapzilla.com is getting a new website design. I can’t give out all the details on what we’ll be having new, but expect new sections and more content. Bigger plans in the future would include opening up a Rapzilla merchandise store (T-Shirts, CD’s, etc.), doing some more compilations and exclusive mixtapes (which we haven’t done since 2005), and to get a national distribution deal with the funds to market and promote it correctly. Another thing we want to really do in the future is a Rapzilla Festival. I can see this happening within the next 5 years. Big things are going on so please pray for us.”
S.O.U.L | Pg36
As Rapzilla.com continues to keep us updated with the day to day news on what’s happening in the Christian Hip-Hop scene, let’s keep them lifted. They are one of the fundamental steps for Christian Hip-Hop to reach the next level and go further in reaching more people with God’s love through the music He birthed in us to do…hip-hop. So all you artists, producers, record labels, etc. looking for a way to share your gift with people…look no further. Rapzilla.com’s waiting to help ya.
Streaming Faith, LLC, began in 2000 with a vision of providing ministries with state of the art technology that empowers them to share their message to a worldwide audience. In addition to providing the highest quality audio and video feeds over the Internet, they provide ministries with the tools necessary to increase their REACH, REWARD, and RETURN. Streaming Faith is the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest provider of Internet broadcast services to faith-based organizations. StreamingFaith.com also serves as the most heavily viewed online faith-based video portal. At StreamingFaith.com, millions of people from around the world connect with ministries by viewing more than twenty 24-hour broadband TV stations, listening to fifteen radio stations, and experiencing over 2,500 live events per month. Their site is easy to navigate as it features graphics and links to several ministries on their network. Links to schedules, ministries, discussion boards and even a place to find a local church are all listed along the top with drop down bars. There is also a section in the middle that features news, announcements and editorials. You could literally spend days browsing the site and viewing the content. Their Mission: Streaming Faith provides ministries with state of the art technology that empowers them to share their message to a worldwide audience. In addition to providing the highest quality audio and video feeds over the Internet, we provide ministries with the tools necessary to increase their REACH, REWARD, and RETURN. Streaming Faith is committed to developing and delivering innovative Internet broadcast services and solutions that will prove to be beneficial to both our clients and their audiences.
S.O.U.L | Pg37
Interview By: swing
Rounding out the year I couldn’t seem to stop playing this man’s music. My introduction to this brotha was a few years back through the staple CM Cyphas. To say “something about his sound stands out” would be an absolute understatement. Anytime you hear the name R-Swift you gotta think fresh, unapologetic, to the point and in your face Gospel. Less than two years after his release and re-release of (Lampmode & CMR) “Revolutionary Theme Musik” Rodnie Graham, better known to the masses as R-Swift, clears his throat and steps up with his latest release “Soapbox”. Can it reach the bar that was set by his first two releases? I had a chance to holla at the man himself and get his view point on that, his family, and... his iPod! S.O.U.L | Pg38
*Stepping Up To The Soapbox...*
R-Swift:
Well it saved me a few bucks from not having to pay for a website - lol. But seriously it has allowed me to be more accessible to the people so I can be more interactive with those who support the ministry so it’s been put to some good use.
S.O.U.L: What’s really good Swift? What’s behind the title “Soapbox”? R-Swift: Well the soapbox was a raised platform used in the old days where people would give speeches and discuss different issues like politics, religion, and social ill’s. So I just took the original concept and applied it to this record.
S.O.U.L:
It’s been a minute since the release and re-release of “Revolutionary Theme Musik” (under Lampmode and CMR records). What’s been going with R-Swift in between then and your latest “Soapbox”?
“
nobody wants to admit that things are as bad as they really are... R-Swift:
”
Man just a lot of growth, I’ve been trying to be the best husband and father that I can be. I’ve been teaching a bible study for the past two years so that’s doing very well. Other than that, I’m just trying my hands in some business ventures.
S.O.U.L: That’s what I like hear! I understand you have a baby boy on the way. How excited are you about that? R-Swift:
Oh boy, words can’t express my joy, yo. I’ve been wanting a boy from day one (don’t get it twisted I love my beautiful daughter but you know what I mean? lol) and the Lord gave us one. I grew up without my pops around so to have the opportunity to be a Godly example of a man to my son is a blessing beyond comprehension.
S.O.U.L: It’s become more common for dudes in the secular game to do a “God Saved My Life” type track, but seem to be content truly living without Him. What are your thoughts on that if any? R-Swift:
Well of course I’m not feeling that but here’s how I see it, nobody wants to admit that things are as bad as they really are so some of them throw these songs out there to ease their conscience, yet at the same time they have no desire for true intimacy with God. Could it be that they learned it from us? Just my opinion…lol.
S.O.U.L: Ooooh., I felt the ground shake on that one. On a side note, it’d be crazy to think that all you do is listen to your own music all day. What’s poppin’ in R-Swift’s iPod these days? R-Swift:
I’ma keep it 100. I’m bumpin’ that new Braille, Leeland (Christian rock/ worship), This Beautiful Republic (Christian Rock), Marvin Gaye (“What’s going on” best conscious album ever) & JR (Life by Stereo), oh and I can’t forget The BREAX.
S.O.U.L: That Braille *shaking head* instant classic! Closing out, what do you want people to take away from “Soapbox”?
R-Swift: The only thing I can say is I want people to take what I give, JESUS baby!! To check out more on R-Swift go to:
myspace.com/rswift81 crossmovementrecords.com
S.O.U.L: I understand more than you know, homie. Myspace has come through and given a lot of artists a great platform to get new music out and heard across the world in many areas that Christian artists weren’t able to be heard. How has Myspace helped you in your time on it?
Artist: R-Swift Album: Soapbox Tracks: 15 Label: Cross Movement Records Release Date: June 10, 2008 Availability: Nationwide
S.O.U.L | Pg39
Recap by: Sketch the Journalist Christian rap’s mostly unknown trailblazers and historical landmarks were celebrated on June 21st in Houston, Texas. Although members of the hip-hop culture have been spreading the Gospel through their music and art for over two decades, many of its newer members remain ignorant of their own past. As a result, the All Eyes On Me Achievement Awards (formerly known as the Texas Holy Hip-Hop Awards) decided to mark its national expansion by dissolving competitive recognition categories and devoting this year’s entire ceremony to honoring its veterans. Held at Copperfield Church, the weekend’s events included guests and participation from the likes of Stephen Wiley (one of gospel rap music’s first recording artists), Fred Lynch (Preachas In Disguise), Houston’s own Apocalypse (another pioneer holy hip- group), A1-Swift’s Alisha Tyler, Lil Raskull, Gospel Gangstaz, and Corey Red. Two old school MCs who made their name on the other side of the cross were also a welcome part of the weekend. Sparky D, known for one of the first response records in the “Roxanne, Roxanne” battle rap wars of the early 80’s, and Bushwick Bill, from the legendary gangsta rap crew the Geto Boys, both spit God-glorifying rhymes representing their new lives during the event. The two-day celebration began on Friday with a kickoff party/fellowship at The Brighter Side club. This gave out-of-town artists and fans a chance to get to know each other better outside of the music in addition to seeing their performances. RedCloud’s somewhat alternative form of hip-hop made many, many new fans that night with his fantastic freestyles that reminded the audience that MC stands for “Move-the-Crowd.” Saturday’s events kicked off with several artist development workshops and panel discussions at the Hilton Garden Inn Northwest. Here, many of the weekend’s most high-profile guests assembled to share their experience, wisdom, and insight with upcoming members of the community. AEOM founder Bobby “Tre9” Herring and Sketch the Journalist facilitated discussions titled “How Real Do We Have to Keep It?”, “Is
S.O.U.L | Pg42
There Room for Issues of Social Justice in Christian Rap?”, and a business-focused question and answer session with Danny Wilson (Holy Hip Hop, Inc.) and Tim and Steve Trudeau (Syntax Records.) Saturday afternoon’s storm clouds necessitated some last minute changes to keep the media red carpet dry, but soon after 5 pm the evening’s various nominees and performers began to file in to take interview and photo requests. As guests and audience members entered the darkened sanctuary they were greeted by an elaborate stage with special lighting, smoke machines, and night-sky type backdrop. To the side of each stage were large, 10-foot screens to display the introductions and performance footage. The show was a mix of award presentations and artist performances. Nominees were honored in various categories such as Pioneer Group, Pioneer Classic Record Label, Pioneer Graphic Designer, and Pioneer Film or Documentary. The performances in between ranged from lyrical (Sean Slaughter / Corey Red), to R&B (Soulfruit / Blase), to hardcore (Bushwick Bill with screamo band Atonement), to hip-hop worship (Much Luvv Fam with rock band Laden.) K-Drama kicked off his set with an unorthodox yodel while the Gospel Gangstaz took it old school by performing “Mobbin’” with former 5th Ward Boyz members 007 and E-Rock flanking the stage. Many acts, like Blasé’ and Bless’T, accented their performances with elaborate multimedia videos and special lighting. One of the more memorable snapshots came when P.I.D.’s Fred Lynch accepted the Christian Hip Hop Martyr Award on behalf of Danny “D-Boy” Rodriguez’s family. The 22-year-old MC was murdered on October 6, 1990, presumably by a member of one of the same gangs he used to minister to through his music and work with Dallas, Texas’ Street Church Academy. Later, several pioneering music ministers expressed great gratitude for the accolades they received that night.
“I’m proud to receive this honor because so often I feel like my work has gotten overlooked,” Corey Red said. “And I’ll give this trophy to my mom like I always do as a way of giving back to her and apologizing for all the hard times and stress I caused her growing up.” At the end of the ceremony Tre9 came out on stage to thank the audience and share a message he said had been on his heart all week. In describing the motivation for all the time, money, and energy spent organizing the awards, he noted it was because of his heartfelt passion to make Jesus the Christ known to a broader audience. Through tears, he asked the crowd to recite an extemporaneous prayer of forgiveness and acceptance that would establish them as heirs of Christ. Several individuals remained standing when Tre9 asked for those who made this decision to make a public proclamation of their newfound faith. And in that moment, an event designed for entertainment transformed into ministry. “I was overwhelmed by the love and appreciation,” said Stephen Wiley who was recognized for the Pioneer 1st Gospel Rap Tape and as a Pioneer Gospel MC. “I thoroughly enjoyed myself and was literally speechless throughout the weekend.” The celebration didn’t stop there as the audience was directed upstairs to the church’s youth center to enjoy the Official After Party with DJ D-Lite. Various artists performed there, enjoyed a meal, and further fellowshipped with guests and winners.
A special spontaneous hip-hop moment occurred in the hallway leading to the After Party. Syntax Records’ DJ Promote set up his own 1’s and 2’s and started spinning his own blends and instrumentals. The only available speaker was a 1980’s style boom box that is generally just a prop on RedCloud’s merchandise table. A spare microphone was also located and plugged into the spur-of-the-moment sound system and as the music pumped, several artists started to crowd the table. Virgina’s Sean Slaughter was one of the first to step up and start freestyle rhyming. Soon the scene became a full-on open mic session with the stick being passed from artist to artist – including Bushwick Bill who debuted some of the verses from his upcoming gospel rap album “Testimony of Redemption.” Many remarked upon the great sense of unity that was felt at this year’s event. Members of the gospel rap culture were represented from Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, Houston, Cincinnati and all points in between with everyone sharing a common bond of Christ and hip-hop. “My respect for Tre9 and the entire Much Luuv team continues to grow,” Syntax Records President Tim Trudeau said. “He has vision. Starting an awards show from the ground up is a task that few could handle. This is why he has our full support. As the hip-hop scene expands, leaders such as Tre9 continue to be revealed through longevity and success.” The event, recorded by five separate cameras including one on tracks in front of the stage, was filmed for television and DVD distribution. •••
Efrem Smith pastors the thriving multi-ethnic church “The Sanctuary” in Minneapolis, Minn. The church was planted in 2003 and now reaches over 800 people. Efrem authored the book “Raising Up Leaders” and co-authored “The Hip-Hop Church” with Phil Jackson. He has become a regular speaker at conferences like Willow Creek Leadership Summit, National Pastors Convention, Fla.vor Fest and Catalyst. S.O.U.LMAG is all about bringing solid leaders like this into the center of the conversation. Pull up a chair and join the cypha as we chop it up with Efrem.
S.O.U.L | Pg44
S.O.U.L: How did you know in your heart that your calling was to be involved in full time ministry? Efrem: For me, I grew up in church and grew up in the hip hop culture so I’ve been connected all my life. I think that in high school probably the summer before my junior year in high school is when I really went through a conversion experience where I accepted Jesus as my Savior. I grew up seeing the church being divided by race. This led to a developing frustration and passion about being intentional about involving hip hop culture. That journey lasted about 4 years and really culminated my junior year of college where I had my calling experience and really sensed God calling me into full time ministry. Originally I didn’t want to be a pastor. But my junior year I decided not to fight that anymore. S.O.U.L: What is the most significant challenge that has brought about the most growth in your ministry? Efrem: We have found that when you’re doing ministry with the hip-hop culture in the urban context, your ability to stay healthy spiritually over the long haul is important. Many people burn out; it is intense spiritual warfare. There is spiritual warfare everywhere, but I think the volume in spiritual warfare is higher in a multi-ethnic context. The most important thing is spiritual health and direction. Growing deeper in a spiritual relationship with God, we learn the importance of connecting hip hop ministry with compassion, mercy and justice with spiritual intimacy and health. It is most important to be intentional about spending time with God alone. Getting away from the grind of ministry and the noise of the world. Second, really paying strong attention to my professional development as a pastor and a leader. For me, I am currently going back to school to work on a doctorate degree at Bethel Seminary. We need to challenge ourselves, those that are doing ministry in a hip hop and urban context, to be spiritually healthy and to be theologians. We need to critically think about the theological implications behind what we are doing. S.O.U.L: For those who are unfamiliar with your platform, please expand on the concept of wounded healers. Efrem: In an urban ministry there is a lot of walking wounded people that grew up without a father or in an abusive home situation. People wounded by identity issues rooted in race and class. When you listen to the lyrics of hip hop, it is not just a glorification of the negative; it is the song of the wounded. We have to be sensitive that we are proclaiming the word of God in the land of the wounded. After being saved, they go back into their community and they are to help the lost to be found and the hurting get helped. S.O.U.L: What are the words of encouragement that you have for these wounded healers? Efrem: Remember that by His stripes, we are healed. By Jesus being wounded on the cross, there is healing for the world. So when we come to Christ, we are crucified with Christ, and raised with Christ. Those of us who have been wounded but have been changed and transformed, we need to understand our wounds can be healing, transformation through the holy spirit for other people. Those of us that are wounded healers are to go into hip hop culture and bring hope, the message of the kingdom, and to bring the message of freedom and empowerment. Check out Efrem Smith’s church:
www.thesanctuary.com
S.O.U.L | Pg45
The Need There is a continuing crisis occurring in the urban communities of America. Families continue to deconstruct, leadership continues to be corrupt and churches continue to decline. Most urban communities have a church on nearly every corner, yet the same social, economic and spiritual issues continue to remain unchanged. Many churches in the city struggle to connect with younger generations. As a result, there are more and more teens and young adults growing up without a church background and without a Christian worldview. There is a huge vacuum developing in our inner cities.
The Call In Matthew 28 Jesus told his followers to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of
S.O.U.L | Pg48
the Holy Spirit, and teaching them everything I have commanded you.” (NIV) He said to Make disciples, Mark disciples and Mature disciples. That’s what growth is all about. The growth were talking about here is individual (personal) and it’s corporate (community). It’s God’s will for people to grow spiritually, which effects growth in every other area of their life. It’s His will for his followers to be connected with a faith community of people, which is also meant to grow. Col. 2:19 is talking about the church when it says, “Under Christ’s control, the whole body is nourished and held together by its joints and ligaments and it grows as God wants it to grow.”
The Story Crossover Church was planted in the city of Tampa in the early 90’s. In 1996 Tommy Kyllonen founded the youth ministry with his wife Lucy and over the next six years it grew to hundreds and became a new
national model of urban youth ministry. In 2002 Tommy
still unreached and in desperate need of services, support
became the lead pastor and the church became Purpose
and spiritual guidance.
Driven with an overall vision to reach unchurched people influenced by urban/hip-hop culture.
They
have seen explosive growth as they now have 3 Sunday services with 70% of the multi-cultural crowd coming from an unchurched background. Crossover has become a faith community where solid Biblical teaching and discipleship happens in an urban context that culturally connects with their community. Marriage have been restored, criminals rehabilitated and countless teenagers and children saved from the street life. Crossover’s unique story has been featured in USA Today, Newsweek, CBS News and many local media outlets. In both 2007 and 2008 Crossover was included in Outreach
“
Over two thirds of the population is made up of minorities and the median household income is only $22,090, which puts a third of homes below the poverty line.”
Magazine’s list of America’s Most Innovative Churches.
The Facility
Their leadership team has trained thousands of leaders at
The property fronts busy Fowler Ave. just west of
several different conferences.
University of South Florida and a little east of I-275. Over 55,000 cars pass the site each day. The location
”
ways; The immediate community (Suitcase City), USF (they already have several urban students attending), The University Mall (attracts a predominately urban crowd), The International Flea Market (next door and attracts a predominately urban crowd), and the Hip-Hop Soda Shop which is connected to the parking lot (it is a restaurant that has become the epi-center of the local hiphop community). The property has hundreds of parking
Crossover is at a pivotal point of growth. They’ve been
spaces and a 43,000 square foot building. The inside
creative with their campus, their space and their service
of the building is one big empty room that is ready for
times, but they’ve outgrown them. They are looking to
build out. The building was a former Toys R’ Us. The
relocate a few miles away to a facility on Fowler Avenue.
building will include a food pantry, a full gymnasium,
This will not affect the majority of their congregation as
tutoring and computer rooms, classrooms for education
nearly all of them drive to their current location from all
(home ownership, resume building, literacy and Biblical
over. The new location will be easier to locate, has a bus
training), children’s classrooms, an intern dorm, offices,
stop in front and a much higher population density in the
café/hip-hop shop, and a 700-seat auditorium.
immediate neighborhood. The community’s nickname is even “anti-roots” as it’s known as “Suitcase City”. It was given this name due to its high eviction rates and
The Faith
its transient nature. Over two thirds of the population
This endeavor will take a huge step of faith for Crossover,
is made up of minorities and the median household
as it’s a huge step up on so many levels. Around a
income is only $22,090, which puts a third of homes
million dollars is what must be raised to complete
below the poverty line. In the past eight years several
a full build out of the facility. The church had raised
of the city’s housing projects (College Hill, Ponce De
around $30,000 over the past few years mostly from
Leon, Riverview Terrace and others) have been closed
food sales at Fla.vor Fest, concerts and services, so there
and rebuilt. Many of the residents were permanently
was a small foundation to build on. Early in 2008 fund
displaced to this community with section 8 vouchers.
raising plans began as they started negotiations with the
There are a few smaller churches and outreach ministries
real estate company marketing the property. The first
in the neighborhood, but the majority of the people are
outside fund raising dinner was held in May that gave
Growth: a. A process of growing b. Full development: maturity 1. An increase, as in size, number, value, or strength; extension or expansion.
The Community
is strategic to Crossover’s target audience in five major
2. That which has grown or is growing; anything produced; product; Consequence; effect; result. (Dictionary.com)
“Crossover has become a faith community where solid Biblical teaching and discipleship happens in an urban context…
S.O.U.L | Pg49
little results. Coming into the summer the gas and food prices were
at all the growth that was then visible as everyone was together at
skyrocketing as the economy tightened. It seemed like a terrible time
one time in the full theater. It was an exciting day as the vision was
to try to be raising money. A few outside individuals did partner with
launched and a video was shown that outlined Crossover’s growth and
Crossover and an additional $16,500 was raised. For a few months the
showed shots from inside the potential new facility (This video is now
fundraising sat still at a little under $50,000 raised.
available for viewing on the Growth link on our website). The church
“
also viewed an endorsement video that Pastor Rick Warren (Purpose Driven Life) did for Crossover’s new building. The Crossover Family
Coming into the summer the gas and food prices were skyrocketing as the economy tightened. It seemed like a terrible time to try to be raising money.
”
was challenged to take ownership and also give sacrificially over the next 12 months. This was not about giving to a building, but giving to impact the people with the message of Christ – the building is just the tool to help facilitate that. People were challenged to sacrificially give to something bigger than their stuff; something that would last and leave an eternal legacy. Pastor Tommy knew as the spiritual leader he also needed to personally own this. One of his mentors told him he needed to tell his church what he was going to give. He was very reluctant to this at first, but after praying about it he shared that day what he and his wife were sacrificially going to give over the next twelve months. The people attending were inspired and challenged.
In late July Pastor Tommy was seeking God in his personal prayer
They were also encouraged to Pray over the next two weeks what they
time and God challenged him about stepping out on faith. The church
would sacrificially Plant so it would Produce solid roots to impact the
planned on selling it’s campus and doing a building campaign after
urban community for Christ!
$100k had been raised. They weren’t even half way to that goal yet. Tommy shared, “I definitely have faith and vision, but at the same
Two weeks later people brought in their commitment cards and their
time I want to be practical and make sure it’s really God I’m hearing
first offering to start the Growth Campaign. This took place on Sept.
from. It’s that faith wrestle you have when you know things don’t
28th. It was right in the middle of the stock market crashing as the
add up in the natural.” He felt that God wanted the church to step
bank industry was failing and the government was proposing their
out on faith and make some moves and then God would fill in the
$700 Billion bailout. It was not a good week to take up a special
gaps. Tommy shared this with the church leadership council and they
offering! Things again didn’t logically add up, but the offering was by
agreed. On August 17 the church membership unanimously agreed to
far the largest in the church’s history as over $40,000 came in and over
put Crossover’s campus up for sale. That next week a suburban church
$250,000 was committed to be given to the Growth Campaign over the
stepped up and partnered with Crossover with an additional $16,000.
next twelve months.
th
Two days later is when things really got interesting. An outside donor sent in a check for $50,000. The building wasn’t even up for sale yet, and the building campaign hadn’t started and over $100,000 was already in the bank. They stepped out on faith and God was filling in the gaps. Several other outside donors who sat on the sidelines now began to get involved and over the next few weeks the total raised came to $140,000. September 14th, 2008 was a historic day for Crossover as all 3 of their services combined to one service and went to the AMC movie theaters to launch the “Growth Campaign.” The theme was Pray – Plant – Produce. Ephesians 3:20 was the theme scripture. They rented the largest theater they had for the adults and two smaller theaters for the children’s ministry. As the crowd looked around they were amazed
S.O.U.L | Pg50
“Things again didn’t logically add up, but the offering was by far the largest in the church’s history as over $40,000 came in and over $250,000 was committed to be given to the Growth Campaign over the next twelve months.
”
The Campaign Many miracles have already transpired for this pioneering church that impacts the urban/hip-hop community. This magazine you’re holding is a production of this focused group of Christ-followers. S.O.U.LMAG wanted to let its readers know about what’s happening with Crossover because this is home base for us. Crossover is also the home of Fla.vor Fest. Overall there are a lot of people looking to us as a model. Our ministry appreciates that… and we need you during this time. We need your prayers. Our faith has propelled us and things are rolling, but there is still a ways to go and we need our people to pray with us: Pray that God will continue to grow our faith. Pray that he’ll continue to raise up leaders in our faith community. Pray that our current campus will sell quickly. Pray that God will bring more individuals, churches and businesses to financially plant with us. Pray for all the real estate and construction details. Pray for the community we are planting in. Lastly, we ask you to Pray what God might have you Plant along with us. To find out more details how you can Pray, Plant and Produce with us check out:
growth.crossoverchurch.org
Recently Urban D. and Spec were in Abuja, Nigeria teaching at a pastor’s conference and doing a concert. They went with a team of pastors from Highlands Church in Virginia. Brian Conner was part of that team. He was formerly on staff @ Saddleback Church (Rick Warren’s church) in California as an architect where he helped design their campus. On the night of Brian’s 50th Birthday in Abuja, Nigeria he sat with Urban D. and Spec and designed Crossover’s future campus in a hotel room… look how God hooks things up! Thanks Brian!
Urban D. is also doing a tour “The Growth Tour” with all proceeds directly going to Crossover’s new facility. If you’d like to have him come to your ministry for a concert or speaking engagement check out www.urband.org for details. S.O.U.L | Pg51
All Christians are inspired by the instruction of Jesus found in Mark 16:15 -Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation-. Many times the challenge forthe believeris finding purpose; once that purpose is revealed the means by which to accomplish this purpose takes great sacrifice and commitment to the call. Pleshette Hunt, founder and CEO of 3L Promotions faced these same challenges. Pleshette is a Brooklyn native, who always knew God had a greater plan for herlife. Anatural leader, yet she still struggled with herfaith and did not always make the right choices. Embracing her passion for Christ and her desire to reach the lost, Pleshette partnered with her church to evangelize in the streets of New York. Realizing the challenges New Yorkers faced between accepting the gospel message and theirlove forhip-hop culture, Pleshette found a creative way to reach the urban community through Christ-centered Hip-Hop.
S.O.U.L: Tell me about your upbringing, with regard to your spiritual influence?
Pleshette: “Since I was a kid, I always felt God had a purpose for my life. My parents had a great influence on my life; we would have bible study and pray so I always felt this compassion in my heart for God. As a teenager, I knew I had a calling and felt conviction when I made wrong choices like smoking weed, drinking and going to the clubs. I always still felt like God was watching me. I stayed involved in the church choir but I didn’t know how to have a relationship with God.”
S.O.U.L: How did this affect you? Pleshette: “After years of being in the choir and being in church but realizing I didn’t have a rela-
S.O.U.L | Pg54
tionship with God, I always felt this tug on my heart. We would
not like I had this great idea, Christian Hip-Hop happened as
be singing and I would feel this discomfort, because the words
a result of outreach. It was a tool to reach people for Christ. I
we were singing and my lifestyle didn’t add up. I left the church
realized I could do ministry and do what I loved. I could manage
and I was like, ‘I’m not doin’ church for a while.’ I wanted to be in
artists and the music would be Christian.”
church but didn’t know how to live it. I did my own thing. I loved hip-hop. I was exposed to a lot and went to parties with my sista
S.O.U.L: Since 3L Promotions is now a year old and already
who was a well-known house DJ. I use to run with independent
has four major Christian hip-hop artists/groups represented,
producers like D.R. Period and his artist Pat Boone and other
what is your mission?
major industry heads. I wanted to promote rappers but would think to myself, ‘if I became successful in the secular world what
Pleshette: “I want to be the top promotion company for
were the chances of me coming back to God?’ I had a bit of fear
Christian artists who are disciplined at their craft. Our showcas-
about that.
es are known for talent and anointing. You’re gonna get ministry and a hot album. Whether you have a relationship with Christ or
S.O.U.L: How long did this struggle continue? Pleshette:
not, the music is undeniable. I don’t necessarily have a five year plan, but I got a daily plan with GOD. We are called to edify the
I attended Oral Roberts University (a faith
based college) and it was real different for me. I still wanted to do the right thing but was not walking right with the Lord. I still had
body and reach the lost so I am not going to put my artists in a box.”
to keep my own cool and was like ‘aight I’m here but ya’ll ain’t
S.O.U.L: How do you prepare yourself daily to stay committed
gonna change me. I’m me and I’ll get right with the Lord when I
to your goal in spite of the challenges you face?
get ready to.’ It took me a while but one day I really listened to the words and realized it was real worship. It was more intimate
Pleshette: “On the straight up, if I don’t pray in the morn-
than emotional. A part of me was fighting, I still had a lot of things
ing my day ain’t good. I need my prayer and worship music to
I wanted to do and had a hard time submitting to the Lord. I re-
have a good day. You have to focus on where your peace and
gret not paying attention to the things God was trying to teach
joy comes from and what controls your day. I’m not perfect, I
me there (Oral Roberts) and eventually due to financial hardship
have bad days but I realize that I have to spend time with the
I had to leave the school and came back home.”
Lord. I’ve allowed God to help me in the mind because that’s
“
where the challenge really is. I am very conscious of my mind
i want to be the top promotion company for Christian artists who are disciplined at their craft... S.O.U.L: Tell me when you finally submitted your life?
”
Pleshette: “I came home, went back to partying again
and where my thoughts go. I try my best to stay in line with the spirit and talk to God throughout the day. I’m the only bible some people will see so I am real with the Lord and ask the Holy Spirit to help me.
Kat-Scan: It is an honor to introduce Pleshette Hunt and 3L Promotions to the S.O.U.L. Mag audience. Its amazing what can God do through one life, the influence just one person can have walking in divine purpose. Many new believers think their time in the world was wasted, but Pleshette is a witness to the fact that God
and chillin’ with my peoples. One day me and my homegirl was
can turn what the enemy meant for evil and destruction into a
chillin’ at this little social spot and this thought came to me, ‘yo
tool to glorify Christ. Visit 3LPROMO.com to get the latest on
I’m partying with these people when I could be tellin’ them about
new Christian hip-hop artists. Support these artists, cop ALL the
the Lord.’ I asked my friend, ‘What if the rapture comes right
albums and spread the gospel! •••
now, what are we gonna do?’ She was mad at me and thought I was drinkin’ too much, I said, ‘no I’m leaving’ and I was out. My sister invited me to this church where she said some guys were
“Promoting Christ through every gift given!”
rappin’ and people were coming to the Lord. I thought it was
www.3lpromo.com www.myspace.com/3lpromotions
wack but later visited on Mother’s Day and that day changed my life. The pastor was a young pastor in the hood, he knew the word and was on fire for God and I wanted the same for my life. I got involved in outreach and found my destiny. Within four years we knocked on every project door to reach people for Christ. Its
S.O.U.L | Pg55
“
Everyone who has seen me has noticed a change.
”
With more and more mainstream rappers “crossing over” to the gospel hip-hop genre, it’s easy to (dis)miss the significance of someone like Bushwick Bill making similar proclamations. Here’s an artist from one of hip-hop’s most historic collectives whose songs described as many mental health issues as social plights. Throughout their career the hard core Geto Boys were known for both violent lyrics and lifestyles. “Highlights” include: Bushwick’s signature song “Chucky” - a track that personifies the cannibalistic kid-killing doll from the “Child’s Play” horror flicks. The infamously mysterious incident from 1991 when, drunk and depressed, the pint-sized rapper asked his girlfriend to shoot him in the head (Miraculously, he only lost an eye and not his life.) The cover art for the Geto Boys’ We Can’t Be Stopped album - a nod to the “keep it real” gangsta rap ethos which used a hospital photo of group members Scarface and Willie D pushing a swollen-faced Bill on a gurney shortly after the shooting Now Bushwick Bill is claiming Jesus as Lord and packing as many Scriptural truth references into his rhymes as they will hold. “Yeah, God takes the foolish things of the world to confound the wise,” the artist said of those who may still find the phrase “Christian rapper Bushwick Bill” hard to fathom. “When they hear the music they’ll be wondering ‘What is this Scripture and verse that Bushwick is quoting? Does it actually line up with what the song is about?’ And through that, them researching where these verses come from, God has a chance to minister to them through my music through His word,” Bill said. The music Bushwick is describing is a full-length gospel rap project titled Testimony of Redemption. The album was recorded for an independent Houstonbased label and needs proper a proper distribution deal. Still, Bill looks for it to be available right around the traditional holiday of gratitude celebrated in late November. “I think that’s the ideal time to put it out because I’m thankful for what God has given me,” Bill said. Bushwick said he was inspired to change the direction of his life after an ugly incident at a Geto Boys show in Indiana several years ago. A young man in the crowd was ignorantly flashing gang signs and dance steps that were in conflict with his surroundings. The audience turned violent and began beating the boy nearly to death. Bill noticed the conflict, stopped rapping, and demanded the house lights be turned on to stop the near-riot. Ultimately, the kid’s life was saved by the pause in the show. He also turned out to be the nephew of the event’s promoter. “At that moment I realized that music is supposed to be like in the Bible when David played psalms for and to God and it’s supposed to be healing and inspirational and encouraging. It ain’t supposed to create tragic situations. The music I’ve
S.O.U.L | Pg56
done in the past just reflected what was going on around me, but now, the music that I’m doing reflects the solution to the problems that are going on in people’s lives. It has you take a look outside of yourself and all the physical means of how you could resolve a situation and says ‘You can put it in the hands of the higher power of God.’ He totally understands everything and knows what love and unity is all about. God respects life,” Bill said. Bushwick says his desire is to be an evangelist of sorts, not being a “frozen chosen,” but one sent out to the “highways and byways” to proclaim God’s redemption for all. Yet even in his zeal, he faces the temptations of his past and those that doubt his spiritual metamorphosis is 100% authentic. “The album is definitely ministry. It’s not just another way [for me] to make money in the music business,” Bushwick said. And still, for all the desire and will to follow Jesus and live as He lived, Bill can just as easily get tripped up by his old ways. A one-off reunion concert and other classic “Geto Boy” resurrections haven’t helped the public perception that Bill is serious about his walk. “It’s hard to do those songs. You can keep it ‘radio’ as much as you want to, but the whole concept and idea behind them is that you rap it in a totally different vibe. I don’t know if most people comprehend or understand that. But if there’s a perfect Christian out there I’d like to meet one,” Bushwick explained. “It’s not really about how much of the Word you know, it’s about how much you repent and move forward in God’s grace,” Bill said. “Everyone who has seen me has noticed a change. And we should be holy because God said ‘Be holy for I am holy.’ But nobody ever said it was an instantaneous thing.” Bill said he has found it distressing that some fellow Christians are so quick to criticize his current walk, saying many don’t allow themselves a chance to hear what God is doing in his life because they envision “the old man” instead of encouraging the new one. “I don’t see myself as any different than Paul,” Bushwick said. “He went around crucifying Christians. Then, when he was actually led by God to inspire them, a lot of people were hesitant. But that shows you that there’s nothing that happens to any one of us as children of God that’s not in His Word where other believers before us haven’t had to go through too.” Prior to entering the world of entertainment, the Jamaican-born artist was a student of Theology, fully intent on becoming a minister. Fellow Christians listening to him speak will no doubt recognize a wealth of Scripture and spiritual comprehension coming from Bushwick Bill’s lips. Given this bond, how might they best support this veteran-yet-freshman cross-bearing MC? “I’ve love to have them share with me encouraging words from the Bible that are inspired by God, not just from their own carnal thinking,” Bushwick said. “I appreciate them praying for me and ‘standing in the gap’ by lifting me up to Christ our mediator who intercedes for all. My desire is that when people see me they receive and see the love of God and the spirit of Christ,” said Bushwick. And while that is probably a statement you’d never thought you’d hear from Geto Boy Bushwick Bill, it is quite possibly one of the strongest pieces of evidence for the life-changing power of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection that will ever cross your path. •••
...if there’s a perfect Christian out there I’d like to meet one...
”
Stay current with Bushwick Bill, visit:
myspace.com/therealbushwickbill
S.O.U.L | Pg57
interview by: Rico James aka Reflex the Son
B
ackstage, he is soft spoken and humble. Then
the music starts... He transforms into a screaming stage presence that demands your attention and participation as he hits the stage and the music plays. The music plays and he rocks the mic until everyone in the building understands that when you give yourself to the cause of Christ, you give your all. He delivers his message, supercharging the atmosphere with an energy that resonates in the ears, minds and spirit of all who see and hear... then the music stops. He exits the stage, soft spoken and humble, but his message remains loud and clear. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s take a minute to get to know Cross Movement Records artist and Reach Records founder, Lecrae Moore as he and the rest of the 116 Clique make moves in the industry.
S.O.U.L | Pg60
S.O.U.L: What was your life like growing up? Lecrae: I was exposed to so much so quickly as I was growing up. My pops got caught up in drugs so my mom allowed me to stay with my Grandma in Cali. There were men uncles, cousins and Grandpa to look up to. I loved gangs and gang culture. I loved the wild life, but I always knew better and my family always tried to remind me of that. I was just exposed to so much so young though. Drug addicts, abuse, sexual acts, gangs, violence… I saw it all, no matter where I lived. I had family everywhere and some were doing good but some bad. That exposed me to a lot. I saw life in Denver, Houston, San Diego, and Dallas. My mom worked hard and stayed on me about education. You HAD to read in my house. I was a very misunderstood kid. I knew about the Holocaust, and civil rights. I knew poetry and I loved writing and reading, but I had to hide that side of me from my peers to survive. Gangs, girls, money, drugs and music were all I was allowed to be open about or else you become some kind of weirdo. But I didn’t mind cause I loved gangs, girls, money, drugs and music.
S.O.U.L: How did you discover your talents for Hip-Hop? Lecrae:
My cousins were staying with my Grandma and they introduced me to hip hop. They used to break dance on cardboard and rock Puma suits and all that. In Cali, gangsta rap was big so that’s all I really knew at the time. Then Denver was full of dudes who were in love with the east coast so I got bombarded with that there. Dallas was big on midwest music until they developed their own sounds. Then my cousins in Houston put me onto screw and the whole southern swag. So by 13 years old I was drawing in all kinds of hip hop. It was a serious idol in my life. Records, CDs, and tapes took all my money. I’d start my day listening to an artist and almost take on the attitude in the music as I walked out the door. It was like a soundtrack to my life. I naturally used my creative abilities to express myself using hip hop. I think I was 11 when I wrote my first rap.
S.O.U.L: How did you come to build a relationship with Christ? Lecrae: I came to Christ after running from God. My family’s roots were Christianity. But it was mostly the women. Only a few men rolled like that. So as a man I had never seen what an urban male looked like as a Christian. So it took me getting invited to a bible study by one of my homegirls that had me curious. I walked in and was tripping off these dudes with fitted caps, baggy jeans, and tats, studying the bible. I remember enjoying the fellowship and those dudes really knew the Bible well so I was hearing all kinds of truth. Eventually after being challenged on my faith I heard the Gospel and was broken. I believed Christ could and did redeem someone like me. After I turned to Christ I was so blown away that I just flipped on everyone. I printed my conversion experience on paper with my picture and passed it around with my number on it. (lol) I was excited. I wanted everyone to know Jesus was real. My boys were blown away too. They all were bugging on my change. They thought I was going through a phase or losing my mind. One of them was like - You used to be cool man. We had fun man when you were getting drunk with us and getting at these females. I’ll be glad when the old you comes back.” That’s when I realized the old me was dead like the scriptures say.
S.O.U.L: How confident were you that you could express your faith thru Hip-Hop? Lecrae: At
first I was arrogant and thought rapping for Jesus was easy. Then I heard Cross Movement and was floored at how these dudes were spitting about things I had never known. Then I realized I had to live authentically for Christ before I could rap about Him. I was never a fan of studio Gangstas and I didn’t want to be a studio disciple of Jesus. Plus, the Lord had to deal with my idolatry of hip-hop and selfishness. I was used to battle rapping too, so writing songs where I wasn’t boasting about me was difficult at first. God did his thing in me man.
S.O.U.L | Pg61
S.O.U.L: How do you address those that oppose the concept of “Gospel” Hip-hop? Lecrae:
Folks who oppose the Gospel being used in hip hop sometimes have valid points. There are mc’s who are arrogant, not Christ-centered, and live double lives. But that isn’t limited to the Christian mc. There are unfortunately ministers and pastors who share the same descriptions. The problem lies with those individuals and not all Pastors and ministers. The same for Christian mc’s. Those who have a problem with hip hop music and culture being used advance a true biblical Gospel are refusing to look at the evidence to support it in scripture and the fruit of it. Also I think there are no sufficient claims to say it’s ungodly or unbiblical. Is it the microphones? Cause churches use those. Is it the music? Cause even traditional gospel music has roots in secular music. Look up the history of Thomas Dorsey. Is it the rhyming? Cause I’ve never seen rhyming words condemned in scripture.
S.O.U.L:
With the recent failures of so many Christian record companies and distributors of Christian Hip-hop, how should the Christian hip-hop industry respond?
Lecrae: I think in terms of the Christian hip hop music industry, we should think about
our goals. Industry is set up to profit. As Christians we should be looking for impact and fruit not financial profit for the sake of profit. We should have a stewardship mentality. Steward the finances God gives us to use them for His glory. God always finances His agendas. If our agenda lines up with His he will provide. We may not be wealthy but we will have provision. When we are motivated by what will bring in large sums of money we are destined to fail. If we are motivated by glorifying God by spreading truth and knowledge of Him, He will support that. To what magnitude is up to Him though. If we steward well and operate on His agenda we’ll be okay. We also have to steward our craft and produce our best quality of material.
S.O.U.L: As many secular hip-hop artists are very vocal in the political arena, how can Christian hip-hop artists be heard concerning cultural and social issues?
Lecrae: Well I think it’s easy for a secular artist to SEEM proactive by simply using their
celebrity to endorse a political candidate who advocates particular social and cultural changes. Still how many of the artists are actually participating? I know some are, but many aren’t. I know some of them. I think we as Christians have an opportunity to show that we aren’t looking for a politician to change the world. Jesus has done all the changing there will ever need to be done, by reconciling the world to Himself. We get to be active in communities and serve the disadvantaged not in the name of the Red or Blue party but in the name of Jesus as the Church. Sure politicians can help advance the kingdom agenda but only what we do for Christ will truly last. If our local churches begin to provide felt needs to the community and an authentic biblical gospel then we’re cooking.
S.O.U.L: How did Reach records get started and what’s your role in its operations? Lecrae: Reach started and still exists to magnify God by giving the Truth of God in an
Urban context. My partner Ben and his guy Chris had started the label with hopes to just put out some God glorifying music. He used to volunteer at this halfway house with me. We basically did bible studies and would share the Gospel and do songs on Sunday cause they couldn’t go to church. The guys there were really drawn to my songs and I hadn’t recorded any of them so Ben said he’d help get them on cd to pass out to the boys. One thing led to another and I ended up being an artist on this label he started and when we saw the impact the music was having in our city and others it became clear to make it an Urban Music/ Hip Hop label. So I came on as a Co-Owner for the help in the direction of that. My role essentially is to be a biblical anchor and urban correspondent. I offer leadership in the quality of the music and the direction of Reach as a ministry. Ben is incredible at creative direction, and the stewardship of our finances and operations. We share hats a lot and keep each other accountable.
S.O.U.L | Pg64
S.O.U.L:
How did your current affiliation with Cross Movement Records change or influence the direction of your ministry?
Lecrae: My affiliation with Cross Movement taught me a
lot. Reach has learned many things from CM on both the artistry and the ministry. CM was the first we knew of that didn’t shy away from preaching truth in music with no compromise. They were presented many chances to “sell out” but stood their ground. They offered listeners more than music, they offered resources for growth and spills and sermons. So from afar we learned that those were things we wanted to reproduce. You also learn from mistakes. No one is perfect and you have to give CM credit cause they had no forerunners in the lane they run in. There were Christian emcees before them but the route they took was the road less traveled and so they made mistakes and we learned from them. I hope younger cats learn from us. Ambassador has been a more personal influence in my life and I think my ministry as an artist has taken shape from much of his wisdom.
S.O.U.L: What should we expect from Lecrae and the rest of the 116 Clique in the future? Lecrae:
In the future? We know we want to provide more resources than simply music for believers and churches to use. I think we are all playing different roles in a budding movement of Christ amongst urban and hip hop culture. I’m excited to team up with others who share the same heart. We are working on a project to tackle authentic biblical manhood. Cause I think many in Hip Hop have grown up without fathers, as such have no idea what it means to be a man. We make up our masculinity as we go along. A dash of sexism, a scoop of pride, and a pound of respect and they think they’ve achieved manhood. So we are trying to break that down with some tools that include but aren’t limited to music.
S.O.U.L: What final words of encouragement would you like to give to our S.O.U.LMag readers? Lecrae:
I’d like to tell all the readers out there to become apart of the change. Don’t just sit on the sidelines watching cats get it in for the Lord. Don’t wait on your big break or something like that. Know your bible and know it well. Walk in humility. Watch your doctrine and know what you believe and why. Live out your convictions don’t just talk about them or preach them. Be active in your local church. Not just showing up on Sunday, but in finding ways to serve there. Be encouraged don’t give up the fight cause it’s not how you start… it’s how you finish. ••• for more on Lecrae & Reach, visit:
www.reachrecords.com www.reachlife.org
S.O.U.L | Pg65
written by: Urban D.
Through my travels I get to meet a lot of different people and have a lot of different conversations about the state of Hip-Hop, ChristCentered Hip-Hop and those involved. A question that still comes up on a regular basis is “What’s up with KRS-ONE?” Many people wonder where he’s at spiritually. In 2002 he put out a project called “Spiritual Minded”. Some considered this a “Christian Hip-Hop” album. This was a time when gospel music was growing by leaps and bounds and several secular artists were putting out gospel projects in all types of genres…even hip-hop. Many Christian stores sold “Spiritual Minded” on their shelves without fully inspecting the content. The album had some tracks with Christian lyrics and even challenges to the church, but it also contained some philosophy on it that didn’t line up with the theology of the Bible. This became a heated debate on some message boards and chat rooms questioning if he was truly a Christ-follower or not. My high school years were during what many consider the “Golden Era” of hip-hop. During the late 80’s and early 90’s lyricism was ruling the airwaves as the epi-center of the culture was in the East. KRS and Boogie Down Productions (BDP) were some cats I listened to and looked up to back in the day. As I built a relationship with Christ, I’ve prayed for KRS over the years, as I knew he was searching and speaking out more and more on spiritual things. I always wondered where he was in his search and what his philosophy really was. On July 7th I found out firsthand. Urban D. & KRS-One KRS-ONE had a concert in the Tampa area and a local DJ (Sandman) hit me up with a text about the show that night. I hit him up the following day to connect with him and ask him how it went. Sandman then called me and told me KRS wanted to meet with a couple of local leaders in the hip-hop community and talk about his “Stop The Violence” movement and how people could get involved. Sandman had been to Crossover before as I was building with him. He asked if KRS could come by and
S.O.U.L | Pg66
meet up with a few of us there on Monday night, as he wanted to show him the church and have me build with him. Aight, bet. A few of us were chillin’ on the patio waiting for Kris Parker (KRS) to pull up. I invited a couple of hip-hop heads from the church that were solid in their faith. It kind of seemed surreal for a dude like him to be rolling up in the spot. As he jumped out of the car and began to walk across the parking lot he had a stride in his step and a big smile on his face. As he stepped on the patio he shouted, “Yo! What’s good?!” Sandman greeted him and introduced us. I quickly noticed what a big dude he was as he towers in at 6’7, a lot taller than I thought. Kris’s eyes lit up as he began to look around the facility. I gave him a personal tour around the campus and told him the story of our ministry and what God had been doing over the years. He was fully engaged asking questions and acting like a kid in a candy store. It seemed like all of this excitement shifted his focus from talking about stopping the violence to his philosophy of spirituality. A small group of us sat down as KRS began to share some of his thoughts. At first he shared some teachings of Christ and we were tracking with him, but soon he began to throw out some other philosophies and even began to contradict himself. Then he shared some of his story and some hip-hop history, and it was cool, but then he started mixing that in with talking about how hip-hop was divine. He mentioned some things that many of us had heard before – that some of the Bible had been changed and used to manipulate the masses. For me that wasn’t surprising as I frequently engage in conversations like that with people from the culture. But, there were some surprising things that KRS began to share as he started to slightly mix in his “Stop The Violence” theme. He made a statement that shocked a lot of us: Christ already returned with each generation. What? In the hip-hop generation he returned as Dr. Martin Luther King. Trying to prove it he shared about his name and his life and how it was divine. KRS then shared snippets from Dr. King’s “I have a dream” speech and really tried to stretch portions of it to convince us that it was a prophecy about hip-hop culture; where it started and where it’s going. He claimed it was coming back to the East and that’s why he was launching the “Stop the violence” movement with plans of doing a 20 year reunion album in 2009 called “Selfconstruction” a continuation from 1989’s “Self-destruction”.
It was disappointing to hear some of his philosophy and false assumptions about the scripture. I honestly anticipated there might be some of that. But, I was shocked and even worried to hear him seriously share that hip-hop was divine and hear his doctrine that desperately tried to tie in Dr. Martin Luther King. Many of us present felt it gave off a very cultish vibe. As you can imagine this became a very interactive conversation and KRS was very welcoming to the questions and challenges. Our church had just finished up a six-week series on Apologetics (Defending the faith), so cats were equipped and ready to get it in. There’s no doubt that Chris is an intelligent guy that has read a lot in his spiritual search, and although at moments he was very confident in defending his philosophies, there were other moments he was vulnerable and admitted he’s still learning. KRS has a very post-modern approach where he kept sharing that everything was truth. We all were right. For a while it seemed as if we were getting nowhere as he agreed with everything, but yet still agreed with himself. Several of us kept stressing we all couldn’t be right, there has to be some absolutes and that’s okay – we can agree to disagree. There were several moments of enlightenment for Kris. He was enjoying the challenge and the passion as most crowds he speaks to will generally just agree because of who he is. Our crew respectfully brought a lot of new perspectives to the table that were new to him. He was amazed to see a group of authentic hip-hoppers that were sold-out about their faith in Jesus Christ. This was something that he doubted was possible, as he was stuck on putting hip-hop on this divine platform. KRS has mixed teachings of Jesus and Allah and several others to form his own belief system and try to put hip-hop in the middle of that. He certainly didn’t start out like this, but this is where he’s currently at on his search.
that Crossover was a pioneer in being an authentic faith community of hip-hoppers reaching the culture and teaching the Bible in context, and it’s working in an amazing way. Charlie doesn’t even know much about the church as he’s only attended on a Sunday… one time, but he shared how he believed Crossover was starting a movement that would touch with whole culture and someday even stop wars. KRS said “Word!”
KRS-One @ Crossover...
I then asked if I could pray for him and KRS reached his hands out and grabbed mine and said, “Please do.” I prayed a sincere prayer for a dude that I truly care about. A guy that is so smart, but at the same time seems conflicted. This is a guy that really does care about the culture and empowering people. I prayed that in his search he would find real truth and that would lead him to an authentic relationship with Christ. KRS thanked us for our prayers and conversation. He then stuck around for conversation and pictures for almost another hour. I gave him a book and a CD – to surprisingly find out he already had a copy of my album and was feeling it. Hopefully we’ll continue to build with him as he shared he wants to come back and meet again and visit an actual service. This wasn’t ever planned on being included in an issue of our magazine, but as time passed I thought it was relevant to let our readers know where he is spiritually and for people to really lift this man up in prayer. Let’s pray “His Philosophy” becomes truly Christ-centric. •••
KRS-One, B-Girl Eenk & Charlie Chase (Cold Crush Bros.)
* Check out www.thesoulmag.com for Swing’s take of our evening with KRS-ONE.
This gathering lasted over three hours. It came to a climax when we shared the parallel of Jesus’ culture where his people were in oppression and how that in many ways mirrors the cultural conditions in the South Bronx in the 1970’s at the beginning of hip-hop. (I shared a detailed section in my book “Un.orthodox” about this.) We shared that Jesus is all about serving and empowering the least of these, and that’s what we’re about as Christ-followers. KRS was definitely tracking with us as hip-hop in the 70’s empowered and gave an outlet the least of these. It was then capped off by DJ Charlie Chase (of the legendary Cold-Crush Brothers). He shared that many people told him he couldn’t express himself through “Hip-Hop” as he was the first Puerto Rican DJ, but he pioneered and opened the doors for people of all races to participate in the culture. He’s become an icon that is known for that (do your history). He then shared (as an outsider)
S.O.U.L | Pg67
S.O.U.LMAG is always striving to bring news to the culture through the media of print. We do album reviews and always deliver resource ideas/reviews. We even go as far by giving some insight in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s movies and how they can relate to our daily lives or work in sermons. We interview an array of artists, leaders and people of influence from all over the world. In our last issue we showcased a fashion editorial on MeekOne/ OneMind, Vintage Clothing, and Christ Couture. This time, we wanted to go a little deeper and find out about the designers and their ideas/concepts that go behind these fashion designs.
Travis Settineri - OneMind Clothing
S.O.U.L | Pg70
â&#x20AC;˘One Mind Shirts
Our first gift in life is our name. In honor of that gift and all it represents, One Mind Shirts designed by MeeK One challenges us to dig deep within ourselves to find and embrace what makes us unique. In celebrating his autistic cousin, Travis Settineri a.k.a. MeeK One designed a shirt that affords us the opportunity to introduce ourselves to the world while supporting autism research. Part of the proceeds goes to better educate and to discover advances in those affected by or living with autism. Whether you choose to represent your birth name, nick-name or stage name you are representing who you were created to be. Who are you? Get inspired. Pursue your dream and show the love of God in the process. Retail price: $19.99 + $4.00 Shipping/Handling Choose From A Variety of Available Shirt & Tag Colors Available at: www.OneMindShirts.com After you order your shirt, make sure to send in a picture of yourself wearing it so it can be posted on One Mindâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s myspace page. *All custom names are hand painted in black
S.O.U.L | Pg71
•Christ Couture ® With a name that means hand made by Christ, the collection of tanks, tees and hoody’s designed by Dawn Elizabeth Adams is truly making a statement. In choosing to wrap yourself in Christ Couture you are choosing to represent Our King. This simple, yet powerful design arms us with Christ’s truth. It serves a dual purpose as it promotes faith, hope and love to all longing for the happiness and it also holds us accountable to being obedient. “I flat out asked God for a job”, Dawn recalled while sharing her testimony of God’s faithfulness. A blessing for not only Dawn, but for all who have joined in the Christ Couture movement… a movement that has inspired many to replace this world’s perception of treasures, for that of The Kingdom. So represent your choice to do God’s work from every direction with the tri-logo’d hoody that is as beautiful as the name itself.
CHRIST COUTURE UNISEX LOGO HOODY Retail price: $45 Available at: www.ChristCoutureMovement.com After you order your shirt, make sure to send in a picture of yourself wearing it so it can be posted on One Mind’s myspace page. 100% cotton, snug fitting hooded sweatshirt, zipper, tri-logo’d on chest, hood and back. Currently available in BLACK only!
S.O.U.L | Pg72
•Vintage Clothing Limited Ever walked amongst a crowd and felt non-existent? Most of us have felt this way from time to time…but not when rocking Vintage Clothing Limited! Heads will remain lifted high as confidence is portrayed in every intricate detail of each art-focused design in the collection. With that said, if you are getting ready to transparently jump on stage or simply sit behind a desk while working on your goals…Vintage Clothing Limited is for you. Inspired by their culture and love of music and art, the founders of Vintage Clothing Limited; Shaun Burkowski (of Pinnacle Rhythms), and Eric Nine (of The Remnant) continue to gain momentum since their May 2007 launch. And with their limited design “Lion in the City” selling fast, don’t miss your chance to proudly display your heart of a lion.
LION IN THE CITY Retail price: $28 MSRP Style: LIMITED EDITION Available at: www.VintageLimited.com and select boutiques worldwide This is the second of two LIMITED EDITION art print shirts currently available in our collection. The theme “Lion in the City” is illustrated by artist Eric Nine and envisioned by designer Shaun Burkowski. This design was almost 2 years in the making! Our unique retro blue shading graces this premium ringspun cotton fabric. This colorway is well complimented by a stunning contrast of the black and white art. The detailed illustration features raised high density inks strategically printed on certain elements to create a surreal 3D effect. The detailed foreground of the city sits on top of white textured spray paint drips as a Lion struts unchallenged down the center of the street. The interesting angles draw you into this artistic world. The piece depicts a Lionhearted individual standing out from the pact and walking his own path apart from the challenges and struggles of this world (city). Only 500 shirts will ever be available Worldwide! Each one is hand numbered on the back of the woven label and comes with a signed Certificate of Authenticity. Photo courtesy of: Savoir-Faire Productions and Exodus Magazine S.O.U.L | Pg73
K I N G D O M
B I Z
: M@RZ
interview by
Revolution Art is the new label and GRITS is the veteran group behind it. Teron “Bonafide” Carter and Stacy “Coffee” Jones take time from doing kingdom business to let us know what they are doing and where they are going. On a Mission
BONAFIDE: We want to force a change in the market as a whole, not just the Christian realm. We want to make sure things continue on to progress and change; make moves in the movement. We are not the average group, Christian or otherwise. The vision that God has given us is bigger than just putting out records. He wants us to get out there and bring Christ to people in ways they have never seen it before; from music to fashion and maybe even movies. We are called to just influence the culture and cause a change. It is necessary. It is headed that direction
S.O.U.L | Pg76
anyway. The culture is progressing toward wanting a change. People want something different. We, as believers, know what that difference is. Revolution Art Records wants to build career artists with solid foundations. We are signing artists that we will stick with for a long time, not just to make records. This label is making artists into family members. We are doing what other labels are not doing; developing career artists that will have more than just a recording contract, and mentoring artists to eventually help other artists. There is more quality control. Being with Gotee for those ten years helped GRITS be career artists. COFFEE: We want artists who have vision, who already have goals they want to reach for themselves. We do not have time to micromanage an artist’s life anymore. Those days are over. We are partnering with artists. We do not just sign artists and make a gang of money off them and then move on to the next artist. Being an artist, we are dealing with these people’s lives. We are going to partner with people who actually have a vision, who have been through some real things, and want to see some real things get done, even outside of music. How do you make this work so you can begin to affect the world; where people are not even looking at you 5 years from now like you are an artist? Cats like Jay-Z and Bono are doing it. These are phenomenal artists. In reality, these people are ambassadors to the world, to the nation, just because of the moves they are making. That is how we have to be to change the world. Especially people in the kingdom that are socalled kingdom minded. We should have been coming up with these concepts and ideas twenty years ago.
S.O.U.L: With an album called Reiterate, I am sure GRITS is going to make sure we understand where they are coming from.
COFFEE: We like to have a lot of meaning in the title, yet we want people to go out and research. Reiterate is like; this is a new era for us, a whole new phase of life. We are not with Gotee anymore. We kind of evolved into our own machine. Basically, what do we want to say to the people? We are what we say we are; we reiterate that we are back in the game. Well, not that we are back in the game, we never left. But at the same time, we are still going to keep bringing that innovative music to people. And at the same time, it will be catchy, it will be hooky, it is going to be relevant. Reiterate means that we are saying the same things that we have always been saying; we are right here, we never left. BONAFIDE: As we have been on the road, and as we go on the road, we see that at least 40% to 50% of the audiences are people who never even heard of GRITS, or never experienced GRITS in concert. Even after all these years, it is still that large amount of people that come that are new. We were like we need something that is going to bring people who are new, and those who have been with us. For those who have been with us, it is really a title that represents consistency. For those that are new, it really is a title that represents we are the same. We have not changed anything. It is consistency on another level. But living in the real, we will continue to do what we do; and still be about what we about. With this album, we wanted to reiterate that because we knew that because we are on a new label now, everything is changing over to be new. We knew there were going to be a lot of questions. Are they still this? Are they still that? Do they still this? Do they still that? The reiterate album kind of shut all of that down. Just title wise, just letting people know, hey, this is nothing but a reiteration of what we have been doing.
S.O.U.L: The tracks on this album cover so much ground, so many perspectives. You are going through all these different avenues of music, making everyone reiterate, making everyone think about each one and the reflecting truth.
COFFEE: We want each song to be a story; its own story. My day-to-day life is something new, something different every day. That is why you will rarely hear the same kind of song on a Grits album. Some artists when you hear their album have that certain sound in every single song, and it gets monotonous at times. I get bored very easy. When it comes to music, I have to be stimulated to really get into it and to really get the best performance out of me; I have to be in love with the song. We record hundreds of songs a year, and I will like 20 of them. There is something about adding that emotion and that feeling into a song because that is what makes the marriage. When you have the right lyrics, the right feeling, along with the right track and the right energy, it is a hit.
S.O.U.L: While listening to the CD, I hear a broad perspective of music and direction being taken. What I am seeing is you want to bring it to everybody to let them know that you want to cover everything that affects your life; you want to shine your whole light. What I am hearing from your new CD is we have the foundation, now let us build the kingdom. That is what came to me while listening to the album.
BONAFIDE: We get a lot of slack from artists and industry people who felt like we did not say Jesus enough; people were counting how many times we say Jesus. We are grown men. We do not have time for games like that. We know what God has called us to do, told us to do, and how He told us to do it. We know you cannot reach the world in a box, and you cannot say that you are reaching the world when you are in a box. So we definitely musically want to open it up so that everyone will not only have a listening ear, but a receiving heart. You cannot just run up in anybody house and tell them how to clean it. You have to build a relationship with them before they even let you in the door, and then when you get in the door, you just cannot be rude to somebody, talking about, “Man, your kitchen dirty! Dang! Why don’t you make up these beds?” You have to build a relationship with somebody to be that close to them to even speak those kinds of things. When you look at that on a spiritual side, that is what conditionally we have done as a church. We have always ran up in people’s houses, telling them how dirty it is. We have not built relationships with them, or got on a level with them to help them clean it, or where we have even offered to help them clean it, no matter how dirty it was. How many people are willing to wash somebody else’s underwear, if you will, or willing to wash somebody else’s dirty dishes with a willing and cheerful heart? And when you look at it like that, that is how we should be, even in the spirit, when dealing with other people because not everybody is on our spiritual level. So, we cannot expect them to be doing the same things as us. They have to get on the level. That is one of the reasons they do not live like you because they are not on the same spiritual level as you. We have to be spiritually mature enough to know how to decide how to reach a person when you do see where they are. That is what we do through music.
can and will and does change lives. We are slow to jump on one another’s bandwagon, but we will jump on somebody else’s bandwagon real quick. That is the theme of Living Dreams; let me live this dream because you know what this dream is about.
S.O.U.L: Album. I love it. I hear some anthems; Get it Started-the anthem for Revolution Art records, and Living Dreams-anthem for album.
S.O.U.L:Turn it up is a club banger that features Jade and SYNTYST.
COFFEE: One of the first songs recorded was Living Dreams. The concept of how that came about was, man, I am ready to get back into this music thing. I want to be real; I want to be one hundred about it. Being that type of artist, you have to balance spirituality and what you are actually feeling, because the whole thing is to be politically correct. You have to know how to say things a certain way. People need to hear things in its raw essence; this is what I live for. Everybody wants to live a dream, be successful, and not worry about struggling financially. That is everybody’s goal, whether you are a preacher or an atheist. At the same time, I have been living the dream. I am not filthy rich, but God has allowed me to see the world, be on stage performing. I cannot be mad at that. We have been doing this for 12, 13 years, and still being relevant BONAFIDE: With Living Dreams, I sat back and was like you know what? We always so quick to jump on the bandwagon of someone else’s vision or dream that has nothing to do with furthering the kingdom. I can go to any youth group and find at least 10 kids with RocaWear on or whatever. And we are so quick to jump on someone else’s bandwagon and help them live their dream, but we never get behind each other and let us live our dreams. And our dreams come with a responsibility and a power than
S.O.U.L: So many songs, I’m unable to choose one! I do not want to single you out, but...
BONAFIDE: Every time that we go into an album, we try to make every song be a single. That is why the album is so diverse. With each song, we want it to be a single. Every format is to be infiltrated. The one we decided to roll with is Beautiful Morning feat. Pigeon John. The theme for that song is even though things are going wrong, I am blessed that I woke up this morning. I am blessed that my kids are safe. I am blessed that I even got life. It ain’t about all that other stuff; it’s a beautiful morning! Thank you Lord for even giving me this day and it is as simple as that.
S.O.U.L: ART ATTACK TOUR! SOMEBODY CALL THE PARAMEDICS! What’s the deal with that?
COFFEE: Was for fall but we had to get caught up with album. Look for it in the spring. Planning on it in the spring, right before Jade record. It’ll give her exposure.
S.O.U.L: What’s up with your other Revolution Art artists – Jade and Syntyst?
BONAFIDE: Jade CD release will be mid to late March. Jade is a 19-year old from Jacksonville FL. She’s an innocent and smart girl with a real heart for God - a real firecracker. Syntyst is from the Bahamas. His vibe is deeper than reggae. He is a “World artist.” Self proclaimed songwriter with powerful singing voice, as heard on Hittin Curves.
BONAFIDE: That is going to be a club banger. That is going to be the goal. I am going to focus it on the club. You begin music in there, people do not even know what they are listening to, and some do not even care, as long as they can bob their heads while they are holding their drinks. But when it gets in there and they get it in their ear, lives are changed.
S.O.U.L: Yeah… A seed is planted. The GRITS really gave me some motivation! It is refreshing to see Christian artists looking at things in a fresh and developing perspective. I see GRITS’ music on the Reiterate album as parables that are reaching out with diverse genres of music and touching a lot of different people to make them understand Christ better. Handle your Kingdom Business. ••• for more on Grits, visit:
www.grits7.com
S.O.U.L | Pg77
S.O.U.L | Pg78
Zulu: As a producer, what are the greatest challenges you have had
to overcome? T.Stone: As a producer, one of the greatest challenges that I have to overcome is pride. This is a battle that, as long as I live, I will have to face and challenge, because it shows itself in so many ways, shapes, and forms. Earlier on in my production journeys, I really didn’t know how many people actually heard and liked my music. Over time, I have found that there are more people that appreciate it than I had ever known. There is great temptation in that knowledge to be proud and puffed up. I don’t keep a running tally of all of the albums I have worked on. For a while, I didn’t even have any of my pictures out. Those were things that helped me stay humble. As for me now, it’s my constant endevor to remember who gave me the platform.
Zulu: Who helped you overcome them? T.Stone: I can’t say that there’s any one person.
God uses lots of people around me to remind me to stay humble. Practically, reading Scripture and looking at Christ’s humility, remembering where Christ has brought me, and looking at other artists who are humble but have much to boast about.
Zulu: How did you get into production? T.Stone: I initially got into music when I was young, growing up in the
church. I’d play the drums and sometimes even the keyboard. But I first started making beats with a friend of mine in elementary school. We would get an old tape recorder and toy drum and remake songs of Christian rap artists that we liked (this was in the early to mid 90’s). That was my first introduction to production. Later on in the mid to late 90’s, I started using keyboards and tape decks, then eventually went on into using computers, making loops in a basic Windows program called “Sound Recorder”. I used what I could get my hands on and enjoyed it enough to keep doing it all throughout my teen years into adulthood.
Zulu: What equipment do you use? T.Stone: Since I’ve been serious about making music, my arsenal has
changed a lot over the years. I’ve experimented a lot and found what works for me. Most of the tracks people heard from me in my earlier years were done on an old computer running a program called Making Waves Audio. That was the main powerhouse behind tracks that I did with Braille and a lot of the earlier work with Reach Records. I have gone through a list of equipment: Akai S1100, Akai CD3000xl, Akai S5000, MPC 500, Boss SP505, Emu Emax Original, and more. After tons of experimenting, I have found that it’s not about the gear you use, but how you use it. Most of the pieces of gear that Ive had, I used the most basic features to make songs. Most of the gear was a distraction from making music. Right now I rely on a desktop PC (sorry Mac lovers), an Axiom 61 midi controller, Ableton Live and Making Waves Audio. My sounds come from years worth of building a sound library and also running sounds through various pieces of gear. It only takes a little bit of gear to make great music.
Zulu: As Christian artists, what areas do you feel we need to improve the most in?
T.Stone: As Christian artists, there is always room to improve on our hu-
mility. Pride is a killer. That comes from putting ourselves in the right perspective- we are wretched sinners and our sin is exceedingly great. God is infinitely Holy and deserves all glory. We as Christians always have plenty of room to grow in the area of Biblical competence. We should all be growing in our understanding of what Scripture is saying, growing in how much we know who God is. This comes by committing ourselves to studying His Word and making sure we are not, in our endeavors to perfect our artistry, sacrificing our personal pursuit of Christ. Many artists will say “how do you know that I’m not really growing in the Lord? That’s a private thing!” My response is that just as people are noticing the obvious fact that you are getting better on the mic, they should also be noticing the obvious fact that you are getting closer to Christ when you are on that mic. - Also, I think there is also more room for going outside the music and having another ministry outlet that identifies you outside of the music context. A good example of that (and they are by no means the only) is Reach Records/Reach Life. When we are outside of the rapper context and are just plain “Christians”, we should have a life ministry that’s as organized as our music ministry. What I mean is that we should not be 9’s and 10’s when it comes to our music ministry, but 4’s and 5’s when it comes to follow up and “besides music” things. If we can only
tour and do great shows, but can’t contribute to the spiritual growth of others outside the context of the stage, then we need to work on those areas. If all I can do is make hot beats, but I can’t help build up my brothers and sisters in Christ, I have failed as a Christian Hip-Hop producer.
Zulu: What are the things you do on a regular basis that contribute
most to your success as a producer and entrepreneur (success being defined as 1.your ability to produce and sell tracks at a r ate and at a price that cover most or all of your living expenses 2. The popularity of your production). T.Stone: From the start of my production journey, I had no business strategy. I had no target goal as far as where I’d want my music to go, how much I’d like to make, ect. I did have a focus on making music with excellence, and studying the Bible. God picks up and uses who He desires. It’s God who exalts a man and it’s God who abases a man. Knowing this, I try to fight pride daily. I remind myself of my weaknesses, and remind myself of the strength of Christ. God looks to use the humble. I want God to use me. I would like to be used for God’s glory in Christian music for years to come if it is His will. But it will never happen if I want glory for myself. It will never happen if I begin to think of myself too highly. So, on a regular basis, I encourage every artist and producer to remind themselves of their weakness, and the strength of Christ. Work diligently as unto Christ and don’t seek your own glorification. If you are not elevated in the area of music, you will be used somewhere else. Be faithful over little. Do it for His glory, not your own. If you can spend your life mastering that, you will be in the right spot for God to pick you up and use you. - Practically what that looks like? I start off the day with prayer and Scripture reading with my wife. I work diligently through the day, making beats and music, and working on other things related to my life work. That would include writing articles that give spiritual insight, sharing what I’ve learned to others online through message boards and email, and putting down ideas for spiritual growth for people at my church.
Zulu: From a production point of view, what are the 5 most important decisions you have made in order to get where you are in life now? T.Stone: 1: I abandoned a major life pursuit (in my case, computer engineering) that at the time was competing with the time that I wanted to spend knowing Scripture more. 2: Fighting the fleshly desire to be the best producer out there is a daily decision. 3: The decision I made from the start that I’d keep my music for the use of only the Kingdom of God only, even if some Christians thought I was being “holier than thou”. 4: Being faithful with small projects. 5: The decision that I should make the best beats that I can! Zulu: What are the most common mistakes you see artists make? T.Stone: The most common mistake that I see is artists getting tired and
changing up their game. So in a word, covetousness is the most common mistake. We often times want things that other artists have. Other producers have. We want their fan base. We want their tour schedules. We want their artist clientele. We want their studio. We want their budget. This drives a lot of artists to get weary and do all sorts of stunts to get attention. Don’t seek our own glory, be diligent over the little.
Zulu: What do you think are the most ignored, unknown or unused resources that we as Christian artist have? T.Stone: Each other Zulu: Do you listen to secular music in order to stay up to date with production trends? If yes, why? If no, why?
T.Stone: I will check into the latest sensations to see how they are sty-
listically taking the genre of Hip-Hop. I don’t personally buy any secular hip-hop, but I will check out myspace music charts, or other forms of pop media to see who’s making noise.
Zulu: Do you have any recommended reading for producers /
emcees? Any websites that will help artists with their music?
T.Stone: CJ Mahaney’s book “Humility” and Sound on Sound magazine.
& kvraudio.com is a good resource for producers. HolyCultureRadio.com and SphereOfHipHop.com For more on Tony Stone, visit: tstonemusic.com S.O.U.L | Pg79
If you know Christ rocks and you enjoy music, One Accord DJ Alliance spins it all together to reach souls for the kingdom of God. Over 200 strong, One Accord DJ Alliance, a DJ network founded by DJ Will from Jacksonville, Florida is the model of commitment to finding creative ways to open eyes and change lives. With many artists on the daily doing their thing to share the struggle and the light, it’s the art of a deejay that in mixing it up-as only they can- brings relevance over the air waves and through mix CDs. But by no means does it stop there. One Accord DJ Alliance is a thriving ministry that through prayer, fellowship and conference calls have created a unique platform that is changing the way the industry views this vital role. Realizing the spotlight is long overdue, S.O.U.LMag reached out to DJ Will to give our readers greater insight into One Accord DJ Alliance and here’s what he had to say:
S.O.U.L: What’s the main purpose? DJ Will: The main purpose is to
S.O.U.L: Who has been on the call (artists) as guests? DJ Will: Urban D, Flame, Sho Baraka, Damita Haddon, Dietrick Haddon, The Ambassador, Monty G, Mr Del, V3, Sean Simmonds, Star Harris (Flame’s manager), Tony Stone (producer) and Braille.
S.O.U.L: What are the topics you guys discuss? DJ Will: Everything from music to religion and more. S.O.U.L: What have been some results? DJ Will: DJ’s getting more music, fellowship
has been
great and artist and records labels are respecting what we as Christian DJ’s are accomplishing in the industry.
S.O.U.L: How can people join and get involved? DJ Will: You have to be a faith based DJ or announcer with establish faith based/
either an AM/FM call letter show (example WZAZ Jackson-
Christian DJ’s -not limited to radio announcers - all over the
ville, Fl), an internet radio show (example DJ Wade O - The
country for networking, sharing of music and to equip them
Wade-O Show), or a mobile disc jockey/street disc jockey/
with tools to make their jobs better.
mix tape!!!
S.O.U.L: How many people are involved? DJ Will: Right now over 200 plus dj’s.
So whether you are a dj in search of additional insight and tools to fulfill the vision Christ has given to you or you just dig the art of a dj… check out www.christianrhythmic.com to find out more. •••
S.O.U.L | Pg81
written by: Jessica Bayonet
“We believe in the separation of church and state but we do not believe in the separation of faith and politics…” Without further explanation, this
but vastly overdue. After writing the article on the Urban look on Politics, I offered it to God as a humble critique in effort show stewardship in the small role of leadership He has placed me in. Honestly, I thought insignificantly of my own point of view but
statement alone could provoke a heated discussion between the
took the opportunity to express it anyhow; but the response of
opposing political forces in our country. Nevertheless, this was
openness and empathy that I have seen in churches and political
the opening statement for the Civil Forum on National Leadership
leaders everywhere has been utterly astounding. Now, I’d like to
held at Saddleback Church; where crucial questions on govern-
think that Rick Warren, Obama, McCain and others all read my
mental policy and personal interpretations of Bible verses were
article; were enlightened and hastily worked to rectify the prob-
historically discussed in two consecutive interviews of each presi-
lem but the fact is they probably did not. Someone of far more im-
dential candidate.
portance, however, did read it and His power and compassion is shown in the orchestration of these surprisingly drastic changes
S.O.U.L | Pg84
Judging by the overall tone of my last article (“An Urban Look At
that have taken place in the minds and attitudes of the leaders of
Politics - S.O.U.LMAG Issue #12), the occurrence of this event was
this blessed country. Thus, invigorating the words of 2 Chronicles
to myself and to the American people completely unprecedented
7:14 that say, “if my people, who are called by my name, will
humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn
Georgia Congressman” (Yahoo! News) and Meg Whit-
from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and
man, the CEO of EBay, who “has set the standard for a
will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” Judging by
new kind of CEO.” (Time.com), as the other two people
the tremendous healing in the state if our involvement
he would take advice from.
in governmental policies concerning our nation, we as Christians have obviously turned from our wicked ways
“The Bible says that integrity and love are the ba-
of apathy and turned to the One by whom government is
sis of leadership. What would be the greatest moral
ultimately established. None but the Lord God Almighty
failure in your life and what would be the country’s
should be credited with this change because He is the
greatest moral failure?” Obama explained that there
only One who could have so effectively and expeditious-
were different stages that started as a teenager from
ly established this reunification; a reunification, as Rick
having no father in the house that lead to experiment-
Warren properly specifies, of faith and politics.
ing with drugs and alcohol. Excelling in life resulted in “realizing it’s not all about me. When I find myself taking
“What does it mean to trust in Jesus Christ on a daily basis?”
the wrong step it’s usually because I’m trying to protect myself rather than doing God’s will.” McCain said his greatest moral failure was the “failure of my first marriage.” As far as the country’s greatest failure, Obama and McCain unknowingly agreed on the people’s basic negligence of reaching out. “We still don’t abide by that
The first candidate that was randomly chosen by the flip
basic precept in Matthew, that ‘whatever you do for the
of a coin to be interviewed on August 16th, was Senator
least of my brothers, you do for Me.”, Obama declared.
Barack Obama while, John McCain waited back stage
McCain remarked, “Perhaps, we haven’t devoted our-
in what was joked to be a “cone of silence” to prevent
selves to causes greater than our self-interests but we
the any unfair advantage as the prepared topics com-
are the best at it.”
posed of identical questions for each interviewee and were inferred to be unrehearsed and live. Obama and
“What does it mean to trust in Jesus Christ on a
McCain were asked a series of questions that were rel-
daily basis?” Obama answered “It means Christ died
evantly fashioned by scripture and answered by each
for my sins and I am redeemed through Him…There’s a
candidate in profound ways.
sense of obligation to embrace, not through just words but with deeds, the expectations that God has for us.”
For example:
McCain answered, “I am saved and forgiven. Our faith
“The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise
encompasses not just the US, but the world.”
man listens to advice. Who are three people that you would rely on heavily in your administration?”
Indeed, with cases like the Civil Forum and th global
Sen. Obama initially gave homage to the role his wife
illustrations of our nations leaders truly leading under
and grandmother had and will have in that area, but
God, our faith will encompass the world. What we have
then started dropping names like Sam Nunn, the “Co-
to learn from this blessing is that when we as a nation
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nuclear
make a legitimate gesture that we look to the Lord for
Threat Initiative, a charitable organization working to
the basis of every aspect of our government, then the
reduce the global threats from nuclear, biological and
Lord has already given us not only a promise to heal our
chemical weapons. He served as a United States Sena-
lands but a very extraordinary example as well. It will
tor from Georgia for 24 years” (nti.org) Obama admitted
always be up to us to keep our efforts pure and just; and
he would not limit himself to three people but ultimately
that is our supreme obligation as a nation under God. •
would choose a “table where a lot of different point-ofviews were represented.” Sen. McCain intently pondered before giving props to General David Patreaus
See and learn more about Saddleback’s Civil Forum at:
who in McCain’s own words “is one of the greatest mili-
www.saddlebackcivilforum.com
tary leaders in American history who lead the war on terror from defeat to victory in Iraq.” McCain promptly gave John Lewis, “a veteran of the civil rights movement and
S.O.U.L | Pg85
“Before You Die” by Reach Records
“Quiet Strength” by Tony Dungy
Reviewed By: Luther Conigliaro
Reviewed By: Janine Carrero
I remember when I first received a Christian tract. I was not saved at that point and I remember thinking how lame and worthless it’s impact had on me. The tract only had 3 questions printed on a three by five index card. The card was shaped like money in the form of a fake one hundred dollar bill. The color of the card was also green like money. Some kid came up and gave it to me when I was at a club. I could tell he was extremely nervous just talking with me. After a few minutes of talking with me, with his hands shaking; he handed me that tract. I thought later, “Yeah… I would have been nervous giving somebody a Christian Tract like that too.” The three questions that were on the tract went as follows… 1) Do you know that Jesus loves you very much? 2) Do you know that he died for you personally? 3) Did you know that all you have to do is except him into your heart you’ll get to go to heaven? I remember thinking I wanted to vomit when I read that for at least three reasons. First, I didn’t like the fact that they made religion look like a sales pitch to convert the weak minded. The second thought that I had was why did they put this message in the form of money? Third, I thought if this was the true gospel message then I don’t want any part of something so weak. They made Jesus look weak, so therefore I thought the message was weak. On a refreshing note… I recently received the Reach Records “Before You Die” Gospel Tract. After reading it I was convicted. Let me tell you… I’ve been to three different seminaries and for me to get convicted from a tract, that’s saying something. Reach Records “Before You Die” tract takes you on a journey from the first question to the last. Best of all; they don’t water down the gospel message. The tract stares reality right in the face and tells it like it is. The tract walks the person through the entire biblical gospel salvation message. The graphic design is sick and it keeps you turning through the pages. Reach Records also went one step further and added a dope CD with the tract. They got 10 Hot tracts on the CD and some Testimonies from Trip Lee, Lecrae, and Sho Baraka. I’ve never seen a tract like it. I highly recommend giving it to a friend or a family member or a co-worker. We can’t do it all alone, and thank God we have resources like this that add to our seed planting.
If you’ve been looking for a way to strengthen your faith or introduce Christ to someone, especially a sports fan, Tony Dungy’s book “Quiet Strength” is a must read. The initial thought for many is that this is a book about football, which to a non-sports fan such as myself… this book would have never touched my hand, much less found me on a line waiting to purchase it. That was until the day I browsed the book section at my favorite Christian store. I had prayed on a way to introduce Christ to my father and God answered my prayers in this book that goes beyond the football field to deep inside the heart of a child of God.
S.O.U.L | Pg88
Though reserved at times, Dungy truly shares his heart on the roller coaster of emotions associated with the suicide of his son, his career and relationships, including meeting his wife and that of the team. But the one thing he never downplayed was his faith in God. And despite me not being big on sports, Dungy’s description of his journey to the Super Bowl was as encouraging, as it was unmatched to that of the world’s view. Throughout this book Dungy helps many to bridge the gap between coincidence and God’s plan, while demolishing all the stereotypes. Thus, challenging us to surrender to the will of God rather than continuing to be disappointed by the treasure hunt we so often find ourselves on, for things that have no value in The Kingdom. This was flawlessly executed in a transparent account of his desire to put God first. Praising Him in the storm for His goodness and giving Him all the glory when one finds themselves at the top, are the guiding principles shared by Dungy that will no doubt lead many to Christ. Equally as exciting is that in choosing to be obedient to God, despite Dungy’s reluctance to write a book, he has inspired other resources including: Quiet Strength: Men’s Bible Study and Quiet Strength NLT New Testament Bible which includes a letter from Tony Dungy and features focusing on the principles, practices, and priorities of a winning life. For my father the concept of church was a joke and he never spoke about God, as such I was constantly mocked for beginning a close personal journey with God. That was until I presented him with the most meaningful gift I have ever given, in ‘Quiet Strength’. As such, this life-changing book is definitely one I highly recommend for men and women alike, regardless of where they are in their walk with God.
“Breathe” EP by Soul Deep Records
“SermonSpice.com” by Tony Dungy
Reviewed By: Cisco
Reviewed By: Urban D.
This CD lands in our resource section as it has lots of valuable tools on it. First off Breathe is a worship song. Raw leads you into a worship experience with a hip-hop flavor from the original album version. But, then he steps it up a notch with the remix featuring neo-soul/worship artist Lisa McClendon. Her incredible voice breathes a whole new vibe to the track. Legacy throws in a hot remix along with DJ Primo chopping it up. The tools come in with the instrumentals that you can use as a resource for a worship service to sing over or just use the instrumentals as some nice background music at a service or event.
This resource site provides nearly 10,000 videos that you can choose from to use at a ministry event, a service or a small group. It’s no secret that media engages people. Many urban ministries don’t have the camera equipment or the aspiring filmmakers to go with it, but this website provides these ready to play videos right at your fingertips. Even if you have a full fledge media team like our ministry does – it’s still a good spot to get additional resources and ideas from. The site has background loops for worship, countdowns, message intros, and tons of short films that you can search for by topics.
Instrumental beats packaged like this are rare. There is also an accapella so the DJ’s out there can create their own remix. The project also includes the popular worship song “Holiness” as Audrey Assad joins Raw with a nice acoustic guitar riffing over the track. This CD is one that I kept rewinding again and again as the production quality and the artistry of Rawsrvnt has grown by leaps and bounds. Pop this in and pause… and take a deep breathe!
The only downside can be the price. It’s not free like wingclips.com – but there are definitely some clips on there that are worth the $15 - $20 – especially if you are going to use them multiple times. The video and the creativity should never be the meat of our message, but they can add that extra spice that’s needed…so logon and take a taste test.
If you have a resource you’d like to have reviewed... send it in to our office.
S.O.U.LMAG (Resource Reviews) 7809 N. Orleans Ave. Tampa, FL 33604 or visit our website and contact us:
www.thesoulmag.com
S.O.U.L | Pg89
Christian hip-hop has truly come a long way. So many have come up in the ranks of being quality artists who flip the message of Christ and make the great commission their mission through their music. The pool of albums from these mission-minded quality artists has gotten so large in the effort to counter the norm of modern-day hip-hop content, and every year that pool is growing. Of course, time & space doesn’t allow us to review all that we would like to, but we picked a few this year that are definitely worthy of recognition... -check ‘em out... If you would like your album reviewed by S.O.U.LMAG or would like to have our Hip.Hop.Shop carry it, contact: >>hhs@flavoralliance.com<<
Trip Lee “20/20”
- Reach Records
reachrecords.com • myspace.com/triplee116 The first time I got to hear William Barfield aka Trip Lee, the youngest member of the 116 Clique, was on his debut album “If They Only Knew.” Trip recently dropped “20/20”, which is a spiritual, lyrical masterpiece. This anointed disciple has definitely grown and matured as an artist. Some tracks on 20/20 that moved me are track #2 “Superstar”, where Tripp expresses not wanting the focus on him but the Lord. Track #7 “Cling To You”, will get you hyped and in awe of how great the creator is. So get focused with 20/20 vision and look for this album in our Hip-Hop Shop or your local stores. Its a must have. - Brovah Greg
Kaboose
“Excuse Me”
- Syntax Records
syntaxrecords.com • myspace.com/kaboose If I could sum this album up in one word it would be… Phenomenal! Beats, cuts, lyrics, hooks, album art, the little Kaboose guy… LA… Syntax Records, Tim… Kaboose himself… Native American, Mohawk - Mega Phenomenal. Well “Excuse Me” for giving such a Phenomenal review for such a Phenomenal guy off a Phenomenal album. Kaboose’s debut album with Syntax Records entitled “Excuse Me” = Phenomenalness. Look for the promo video on youtube… you’ll see what I mean - lol! - dj dash
S.O.U.L | Pg90
Flame
“Our World Redeemed”
flame314.com • myspace.com/flame314
- Cross Movement Records
Once again, Flame has returned with another banger! This highly anticipated follow up to OUR WORLD FALLEN, hits listeners from every angle with tight beats, creative lyrics, and an uncompromised message of true redemption. Gods plan to give man a chance to live in eternal paradise with Him is fully and passionately expressed through Flames heartfelt delivery. Our World Redeemed jumps off with “Funeral to Birthday”, where Flame paints with words an inspiring portrait of God’s comforting power during times of horrible tragedy. The mood then turns up a notch with “Go Buck”, a nod your head till your neck hurts song that allows us to reflect on God’s grace and undeserved redemption. Tracks like “ It’s You” and “ Hold On” teach us to lean on the Lord and with endurance so we know we can fight through difficult situations to obey God. OUR WORLD REDEEMED, also swings at its listeners with a barrage of guest artists: Trip Lee, Future, Iz-Real, Lecrae, Robert “Don “ Barham, Dawn Dia, John Reilly, Shai Linne and J’Son. Flame continues to show himself maturing as an artist, ministering the gospel with an incredible dedication to deliver the truth. If you do not have this album in your collection, SHAME on you! Go cop it! - G86
Brinson
“Escaping Me”
- Godchaserz Entertainment
myspace.com/godchaserzent
Sometimes we don’t always keep in mind that we are forever in the presence of God no matter where we are or what we are doing. This is a must listen to for its lyrical content! Overall this CD is a great hip-hop soundscape and a must have whether you’re getting your sweat/grind on in the gym, driving around the block, or just walking around campus between classes with your ipod. If you want to just bang out and be hyped then tracks #13, “SuperBadd” and #9, “Hear What I’m Talking” will definitely be your starters followed up with #8, “Solar Powered” and #12, “What Should I Pray.” Then go finish that up with #16, “SuperBadd UK Remix”. Or if you want to be in an intimate moment with the Father #14, “Escaping Me” or #3 “Long as I Live” f. Rossi should be it for you. Nonetheless, the message on Escaping Me was clear and honest and Brinson is an example of how God can use you to witness and speak to others with where they are in their own lives. - J@ycEn
Jabo
“High School”
- Urban D. Community Outreach
urband.org • myspace.com/nikeshoes9
Young and talented with wisdom far beyond his years! The title speaks for itself as Jabo reaches out to his peers to shed light within his circle of influence. In the title track he discusses how things are different now from the generations before and paints vivid pictures of the challenges a young believer can face when they are sold out to Christ in the halls of your average High School. Jabo then turns up the tempo on “Just Speak” as he gets some help from J. Apostle as they go back and forth with semi-automatic lyrics that will have you rewinding this track again and again! My favorite is “He’s Real” where Jabo shows us from personal experiences where God has supplied in times of need, from his parents break up, to hot meals, to leading him to a church where he would secure a personal relationship with his Lord and savior. This is a project that is definitely for everyone but if your kid is in “High School” they definitely need this album as a guide to get through those trying times that teenagers face. I give this musical essay an A+! - Clok S.O.U.L | Pg91
The Dark Knight [Proverbs] Reviewed by Masheti Moses
Here is a list of thought provoking quotes from the movie along with my two cents: (or should I say a two faced coin) Alfred Pennyworth: Know your limits, Master Wayne. Bruce Wayne: Batman has no limits. Alfred Pennyworth: But you do, sir. While this conversation was going on Bruce Wayne had his shirt off and his body was full of bruises, scratches, and old scars. A perfect example of the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak. Many times we take on more than we can handle and we burn out whether it be in ministry or in the work force. Even as we get older our minds still believe we can play sports the way we used to in high school but our bodies will tell us different the next morning. Batman: Sometimes, truth isn’t good enough, sometimes people deserve more. Sometimes people deserve to have their faith rewarded. This is true in the sense that faith without works is dead. We are blessed for believing without seeing first but when we finally see results from our faith we feel greatly rewarded. However I do believe Batman’s philosophy differs from that of Biblical truth. Batman has faith in a false believe that Rachel was going to marry him someday when in reality she was not. Alfred never Gave Bruce the letter from Rachel explaining that they would never be together. So Batman made his choices upon something that was not true. However, God has given us a letter. God is not withholding any truth from us. We can be certain in the choices we make when we follow him. Harvey Dent: you either die a hero or you live long enough to see yourself become a villain. Some of the greatest musicians/poster child’s of music genres died young: Jimmy Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Kurt Kobain, Tupac Shakur and so on. Would these names be as big and legendary as they
S.O.U.L | Pg92
are today if they had not died? Or would they have faded out slowly even becoming a one or two hit wonder? Jesus Died at the top of his game. But unlike others his legacy can actually change lives. Jesus is not pitied for overdosing or committing suicide but worshipped for being the sacrifice for the world’s sins. Without Christ all of us will eventually become a villain because every man does right in his own eyes. But in the eyes of God our paths are crooked and lead to death. Bruce Wayne: People are dying Alfred. What would you have me do? Alfred Pennyworth: Endure, Master Wayne. Take it. They’ll hate you for it, but that’s the point of Batman, he can be the outcast. He can make the choice that no one else can make, the right choice. When God wrapped himself in human flesh and came down to earth his people where not expecting a humble turn the other cheek Messiah. They where expecting a Mighty King and ruler to wage War against the Roman Empire and its army’s. That was the King they wanted but not the King they needed. What they really needed was their sins forgiven. Lt. James Gordon: Because he’s the hero Gotham deserves, but not the one it needs right now...and so we’ll hunt him, because he can take it. Because he’s not a hero. He’s a silent guardian, a watchful protector...a dark knight. When the prophecy of the Messiah finally came to pass it was not what the people had expected. So they hunted Jesus down. Jesus had the power to stop them. He even had the power to destroy the Roman Empire with one word if he had wanted to. But that was not what he came for. He knew what he needed to do. And he did it even though he knew he would be rejected for it. But Jesus could take it.
Hancock Reviewed by M@RZ
[The Negligent Hero]
This film has really put a new and refreshing spin on the character of a “super hero”. Because of the fact that John Hancock (Will Smith) is not your typically portrayed super hero, we have to ask ourselves what is a super hero? A super hero is defined as a fictional character “of unprecedented physical prowess dedicated to acts of derring-do in the public interest”. Hancock seems to be in line with the unprecedented physical prowess of the definition for super hero, but when it comes to the acts of derring-do in the public interest, he tends to lose the positive interest of the public. Being a Christian, I really have to look at this film and filter it through spiritual discernment to gain an understanding and acceptance of its message. Therefore, when I look at the super person, Hancock, I actually see a man whom God blessed with a special gift. I see a man who feels ostracized because of his abilities, and because of his alienation, he has given in to his own self-indulgences. This shows that despite a person’s status or position in life, they can still fall short to sin. Nevertheless, these trials and tribulations in a person’s life can give way to redemption. As the movie progresses and the climax builds, you see a super person come to a realization that gifts are meant to be shared with others, and that if you give of yourself with the intention of actually loving someone else besides yourself, a person actually becomes a hero. Thank you, Yaweh, for always being our living and breathing hero.
Henry Poole is Here Reviewed by Roy Saringo
The irony of “Henry Poole is Here” is that Henry Poole leaves his current lifestyle (dealing with terminal illness, a fiancé, and his overbearing mother) to live out the rest of his life alone. His hope is gone. And we all know, “It is not good for man to be alone” - whether apart from a helpmate or apart from community - so in his “aloneness” God comes. But He doesn’t come alone, nor does He come in His majesty. In the movie, a stain appears on the side of Henry’s house that looks like the face Jesus, and because of the longing of man for their savior, his neighbors come in droves to catch a glimpse of hope. I may not personally find hope in a stain, or a piece of toast that looks like the Christ, or even a cloud that looks like Mary, but I know what it is to run low on hope (even when, truth be told, you don’t have to leave your home to find it). More so, I know how it feels to look at what others are looking at and not see the hope they see. I start to think, “Is it me? Is my faith gone? Do I have enough faith at all? Am I really a Christian? Does God really exist?” And on goes the questions, and on goes the doubts. That is what the people of God are there for - to empathize, to sympathize, to encourage, to uplift, and to point the way to the Light. And as those who relate to Henry Poole, like I tend to do from time to time… if you can’t find hope in your life, if you can’t see the hope others are looking towards, and if you’re wondering what’s wrong with you: hold on. Just hold on, because the Lord has promised that He “...know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart.”
S.O.U.L | Pg93
Propaganda controlin’ the mic. Kaboose, caught of gaurd... GOTCHA!
Urban D... before the “chop chop”.
Lecrae... jus’ chillin’.
The Myth, The Man, The Legend... Tim Trudeau of Syntax Records.
Odd Thomas spittin’!
RedCloud performing the illest freestyle set!
Members from: Crossover, Flavor Fest & SO.U.LMAG traveled to Azusa, CA to teach, worship, fellowship and be apart of the Urban Youth Workers Institute 2008 National Conference. Here a few snapshots of thier trip.
www.uywi.org
TheUpperground.com in the house!!!
MC Till hosting & eating...
Azusa Pacific University Azusa Pacific Campus
Always some fun @ the Syntax booth.
Jessica... sleeping?
The crew eating In & Out Burger...
SPE©, Larry Acosta (pres. of UYWI), Urban D. & Lily
Opening Session! OFF THE HOOK!!!
S.O.U.L | Pg95
“Adjusting Our Lenses” As I sit here in the midst of completion of current S.O.U.LMAG (which you hold in your hands now); surrounded by articles, thumbnail designs, photos, print outs and an email inbox that consistently reads either “S.O.U.LMAG or Flavor Fest” in subject area and “The BEE Movie” is playing on my television screen... how can one FOCUS right? Now keep in mind, S.O.U.LMAG and Flavor Fest is just one part of my life right now. Like you, I balance family, work, school, bills, etc. We all do. Then for some of us, we have offered our lives as a living sacrifice. We have committed ourselves to worship our creator. To “FOCUS” on our creator. In December of 2006, we at Crossover were still recovering from Flavor Fest. It was only about five weeks since the 06’ event. I was home on my day off getting ready for the new year that was approaching. I had an upcoming wedding to get ready for and the growth at Crossover was happening; needless to say there was a lot to focus on. So ask me why I woke up the next morning knowing I had the next concept / theme idea for Flavor Fest 2007. I had enough in my life going on to pay more attention to, but this idea would not go away. Crossover’s mission statement includes five purposes from the new testament. “To relevantly introduce the truth of Christ to the Hip-Hop culture, as we develop worship, purpose, unity, and leadership in their lives.” Once I shared the idea for Flavor Fest 2007 with my pastor (Urban D.) he immediately showed me how it related to our mission at Crossover. Flavor Fest’s 2007 theme was “To The Ends Of The Earth”. Introducing the truth of Christ to the world... to the ends of the earth. The great commission. With the success of last years theme, we wanted to continue using the elements that comprised our mission statement. The next part of Crossover’s mission statement is “as we develop worship...” This is where the concept of “FOCUS” takes form. Webster’s dictionary defines the word “FOCUS” as [an act of concentrating interest]. Is this not what God requires for worship? In the classic words of CM’s The Ambassador, “He wants us to put Him on a pedestal / He wants to be prime-time, the center of attention, the main attraction...” This past Flavor Fest weekend (despite the current economy) hundreds drove, caught plane flights, rented hotel rooms and registered to be apart of weekend of worship and fellowship. We also had a great time doing it! We all have accounts in our lives that we need to focus on. We cannot ignore the day to day responsibilities that we have set up. Waking up, going to work or school, paying for fluctuating gas prices, preparing for a wedding and so on. I don’t think we “adore” or “reverence” paying bills or waking up early or watching the economy play see-saw. We “FOCUS” on what God has blessed us with. Family, friends, opportunities to further His name in the kingdom. God wants, no, He requires us to adore Him, to reverence Him, to have Him first in our focal point. Adjusting our lenses on the Creator will only result in one thing. Fulfilling our “PURPOSE” in life. Maybe you can share that with us next November. ;) Staying Focused,
Spec S.O.U.L | Pg96