People all around us are constantly trying to influence the way we view things. Sometimes this is very noticeable and other times its very subtle. If you haven’t noticed there are more and more people (and companies) trying to get us to look their way and see things the way they do. Now more t han e v e r w e h a v e m o r e t h i n g s f i g h t i n g f o r o u r a t t e n t i o n a n d m or e i n f o r m a t i o n b o m b a r d i n g u s f r o m m o r e d i r e c t i o n s a n d m o r e s our c es . F r o m c a b l e , t o e m a i l , t o t e x t i n g , t o m y s p a c e , t o f a c e b o o k, t o pop up ads , t o t w i t t e r … i f y o u j u s t s t o p a n d t h i n k a b o u t i t f o r a m i n u t e i t c a n make y ou diz z y … it c an m ak e y our h e a d ‘ s p i n ’ . S p e a k i n g o f ‘ s p i n n i n g ’ h e a d s , t h a t ’s w h a t m a n y people a re o ut to do wit h y our opinion. In pub lic rela tion s (PR) t he t er m ‘s pin’ is def ined as p r o v i d i n g a n i n t e r p r e t a t i o n o f a n e v e n t o r c a m p a i g n t o p e r suade pu blic o pin ion in f av or or agains t a c er t ain o r g a n i z a t i o n o r p u b l i c f i g u r e . R o o m s t h a t p r e s s c o n f e r e n c e s are held in a re some tim es ev en r ef er r ed t o as t he ‘sp i n r o o m ’ . A g r o u p o f p e o p l e w h o d e v e l o p s p i n m a y e v e n b e ref erre d to as ‘sp in d oc t or s ’ who engage in s pinning t h i n g s f o r t h e p e r s o n o r g r o u p t h a t h i r e d t h e m . Last yea r I ha d the oppor t unit y t o s peak at a pa s t o r ’s c o n f e r e n c e i n N i g e r i a , A f r i c a . T h e h o t e l w e s t a y e d i n had ca ble ne ws n etwo r k s f r om Af r ic a, t he M iddle E a s t a n d E u r o p e a n d t h e v i e w s / v i b e w a s m u c h d i ff e r e n t t h a n our A me rica n n ews ou t let s . I f y ou t hink t he m edia d o e s n ’ t s p i n t h i n g s … w e ’ l l y o u ’ v e b e e n s p u n : ) I t s e e m s l a t e l y new s is rea lly spin nin g t hat t he ec onom y is beginni n g t o m a k e a r e c o v e r y. I t d o e s n ’ t f e e l l i k e i t t h o u g h . T h e y ’ v e tried to hig hlig ht little glim m er s of hope, while ot her h u g e a r e a s c o n t i n u e t o c r u m b l e a n d g e t m u c h l e s s s p o t l i g h t . R ecently th e ba nking indus t r y ’s ‘s t r es s t es t ’ r epor t s c a m e o u t a b o u t h o w b a n k ’s w e r e s p e n d i n g t h e i r b i l l i o n s o f dollars o f stimulu s money. They wer en’t good, but y o u p r o b a b l y d i d n ’ t h e a r m u c h a b o u t i t b e c a u s e t h a t s a m e w eek th ey see med to s uddenly ov er - hy pe t he pande m i c o f t h e s w i n e f l u t h a t h a d k i l l e d a w h o l e t w o p e o p l e ( w h i l e the regu lar flu kills ov er 30, 000 in t he US ev er y y ea r ) … h m m m – i t m a k e s y o u w o n d e r w h a t v o i c e s w e c a n t r u s t. I’m sure th ey wan t the s t oc k m ar k et t o hold ont o t he s m a l l g a i n s i t ’s b e g u n t o m a k e i n t h e p a s t f e w m o n t h s . H ere in you r ha nd s you hold anot her piec e of m edi a … t r y i n g t o i n f l u e n c e y o u r w o r l d v i e w – y e s , I said it. We do ha ve an agenda. But , we’ll be upf r o n t a n d t e l l y o u t h a t w e ’ r e s i m p l y a b o u t presentin g the tru th. We hope and pr ay t hat t he t r u t h w i l l i m p a c t y o u r s o u l a n d a ff e c t y o u r lifest yle. Tha t’s wh y our t eam of v olunt eer s pour s o u t t h e i r t i m e a n d e n e r g y t o p u t t h i s toget her. Ou r mission is t o Speak O n Ur ban Lif e a n d k e e p f a i t h i n t h e c e n t e r o f t h e conver sa tion – a nd that ’s a s pin y ou c an t r us t . S pun ou t,
About the Editor: Tom m y Kyl l onen aka Ur ban D.
S.O.U.L | Pg06
Tommy’s good at spinning things like basketballs (for real), plates (it’s a Greek thing), and kitchen sinks (not really). He wears many hats, as he’s out to influence people’s worldview through teaching, music and relationships. Check out his blog and video teaching series at www.urband.org
Table of Contents: Pg.06 – Editorial w/ Urban D. – The Spin Pg.10 – New Mail Pg.11 – Respect Due: Sam Sanchez Pg.13 – Lampmode Recordings Pg.14 – The Tonic’s Dash Pg.16 – Caribbean Spotlight Pg.18 – Internet Spotlight: Dasouth.com Pg.20 – DJ Wade-O Pg.22 – S.O.U.LNEWZ Pg.24 – The Economic Meltdown Crisis Pg.28 – Innovation Pg.34 – Tedashii Pg.38 – Digital Radio Servicing Pg.39 – G-Notes Pg.40 – Lisa McClendon Pg.44 – The Marlin Awards Pg.46 – G-86 Pg.48 – Street Stories w/ Sean Slaughter Pg.50 – Street Stories w/ DJ Lady Grace Pg.54 – Cover Story - Braille Pg.60 – Deezer D Pg.63 – On The 1’s & 2’s: DJ D-Lite Pg.64 – Hip-Hop Down Under: Krosswerdz - Australia Pg.68 – Producer’s Corner w/ JR & So Hot Productions Pg.70 – Fashion and Faith Pg.74 – Music Reviews Pg.76 – Movies That Teach Pg.78 – Resource Reviews Pg.80 – Final Wordz w/ Braille Pg.81 – Photos by PhilipRood.com
The S.O.U.L Team
Publisher: Tommy Kyllonen aka Urban D. Creative Director: Edward Bayonet aka Spec Contributing Editors: James Cole, Rawsrvnt, Lucy Kyllonen, and Nameless. Contributing Writers: Tone Bruno, Sketch The Journalist, Carl Zalak, Duane Custer aka Swing, Rawsrvnt, Kenneth Godbolt aka Broken, James Cole, Lucy Kyllonen, Godsent, G-86, Mystery? Lily Lorenzo, King Nomoso, Clok, Brandon Brinkley, Zulu and Braille Review Team: Brovah Greg, Legacy, Clok, Rahad, Cisco, Erby, DJ Dash, Roy, Jarell, Jabo, and Zulu. Photography: Spec, Media Sharp USA (James Cole), Brandon ‘Dash’ Brinkley, and Philip Rood aka zilla. Contributing Designers: Edward Bayonet, Miles Harris, Ahmeen Hudson, and James Cole. Design Department: IAMSPEC.com * Printed by Adcoprinting.com in Tampa, Florida For information on advertising visit: www.thesoulmag.com and download the current press kit for detailed demographics, ad rates and specs. S.O.U.LMAG is published three times annually (in 2009) by Crossover Church. Crossover is a non-profit 501 ( c ) 3. Crossover’s mission is “To relevantly introduce the Truth of Christ to those influenced by hiphop 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 global 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
Subject: Influence…
Subject: Cover to Cover
One of my friends is actually Big Puns nephew and he’s re-
My 17-year-old daughter recently visited Crossover Church.
ally started to get madd influenced by Christian Rap. I gave
She was very excited about the experience. She wants to
him a copy of the Soulmag that I got at Flavor Fest and he’s
continue attending. I told her I had to check it out as I admit
going nuts – lol! So, yeah man I just wanted to share that
I was very skeptical. That all changed on Sunday. I was
because if someone is getting influenced by me in some way
very touched after hearing Pastor Tommy’s message. I have
– it shows that you guys and the others in the Christian Hip-
not stopped thinking about the experience I had. I loved it.
Hop movement are going God’s work – cuz it influenced me!
I know God has a calling on my life because I can feel him
Much Love in Christ – Fynishline
pulling me, but I’ve always been afraid. I want the strength, joy and peace you have. I got a Soulmag and read it cover to
• That’s what’s up Fynishline! You should have heard
cover and I know this is the place God is calling me so I can
this young cat rip it @ Flavor Fest – check him out at
get committed to Him and grow in Him.
myspace.com/fynishline
Steve
Subject: Soulmags in Bulk? What’s up fam! I wanted to know how we can get some Soulmags @ LU? Can we get some in bulk or what is the
• First time guests at Crossover get a free copy of Soulmag when they visit. It’s dope to see the responses as it touches people and God uses it to speak into their life.
process we have to go through in order to get some down
Subject: Flavor Fest!
here. I want to also get some to distribute at shows as well!
Just wanted to say I really enjoyed Flavor Fest! What you
Peace – Humbletip
guys have done over there is great. I’m so glad I finally had a chance to come and see it!
• If you get 25 or more mags – you can get them in bulk
Applejaxx
prices, even as low as 50% off the cover price plus free shipping!
Hit us up at www.thesoulmag.com * btw,
check out Humble tip’s new videos – he’s a beast!
• Word! The Fest was bananas – just wait until the 10year anniversary (10/10/10) What?!!
Email S.O.U.LMAG... we love to hear feedback and or good news!
soulmag@crossoverchurch.org
S.O.U.L | Pg10
>>RESPECTDUE<< director on the move::
Born in Chicago... living in Vegas. Many have seen the name of
Some of Sam’s notable projects include: Mr.J of the Procus-
Sam Sanchez on the bottom left corner of several music and
sions (Constance Music Video), KJ-52 (Fan Mail), Mars Incor-
ministry videos. An extraordinary visionary director; Sam’s
porated (Indonesia, Mars Sustainability Documentary), Zonder-
cliental range from XXXChurch, Rawkus Records to KJ-52.
van (Rob Bell’s, Jesus Wants to Save Christians, Viral Videos), XXXChurch (Several Podcasts), Compassion International (5
Sam started his career by accident. The Chicago Student La-
commercials), World Relief (Documentary about Turame), and
tino Film Festival granted his first award in 2002, where he re-
Baker (Craig Gross and Jason Harper’s, “Jesus Loves Me This
ceived runner up for Best Music Video for “Just Anotha Day”.
I Know”, book videos).
That music video was awarded Best Cinematography and Best Short by the Chicago Student Film Festival. Sam went to Moody
Currently Sam is co-owner of Difted with El Clinto. Difted is a
Bible Institute to pursue a career in communications. His love
media company focusing on web, print, design and video. Sam
for music videos took him to the NRB Awards Ceremony for
is currently working on a short film with writer, Roy Saringo,
best Music Video and TV award for “Constance” by Mr. J Me-
which will be shot later this fall.
deiros (2006). Stay connected to Sam Sanchez: Since then, Sam has been sought after by several music artists, for direction of their music videos. His love for social change
+ difted.com + everyoneisarockstar.com
and God’s love for the world, has allowed him to create documentaries and videos. Though most of his work is local, Sam has shot all around the world including; Australia, Burundi, the Caribbean, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Japan, and Korea.
Mr. J Medeiros ”Constance” (2006)
KJ52 “Stuck in the 80’s” (2009) S.O.U.L | Pg11
Crossover Church has become internationally known for reaching out to those influenced by urban/hip-hop culture. Crossover’s creative approach has caused them to be considered one of America’s most innovative churches. The church currently holds 3 Sunday services as they are bursting at the seams. They are in the process of relocating to a larger facility so they can more effectively impact the growing needs in their city. To help with this effort, Urban D. and several artists from Crossover have launched The Growth Tour as all the proceeds go directly to Crossover’s new facility. Urban D. and some of his team are available to come to your event and do music, speak, teach workshops or whatever your need may be. Hit up urband.org for more details and available dates or call (813) 880-0538. *Crossover artists, dancers and DJ’s @ select dates. Visit: crossoverchurch.org/growth to watch the story and see the new facility!
I
throughout each step of the process so that our fingern an age when even Christian music is starting to
become more influenced by mass production and commercialism, an independent record label by the name of Lamp Mode out of Philadelphia, PA chooses to be the Amish society of Christian Hip-Hop. As they put it “our approach to making music is like that of an old-fashioned home cooked meal. The temptation is to make every
prints are evident through the ministry of Lamp Mode Recordings. We are not influenced by the radio. We are not influenced by ‘what’s hot’. We are not influenced by marketing schemes. We understand that the LORD made us in our unique ways and if we allow it, His grace and mercy can shine through us in unique ways, all the time painting a more clear picture of His Character.”
meal taste the same, time and again. That’s only possible when you standardize all the ingredients to the point of them losing their natural, organic nuances. We would rather celebrate the individual characteristics of life and allow that to shine through in our music.
With a whole food organic roster of artists including shai linne, Evangel, Stephen the Levite, timothy brindle, deejay essence and the most recent additions of Hazakim and Json, look for Lamp Mode to continue to deliver theology packed recipes that you will continue to chew on
To preserve this approach, we are the ones making the
for years to come. •••
decisions throughout the whole music making process. We write the music and the lyrics. We record the music.
Stay connected: lampmode.com
We mix the music. We develop the artwork. We labor
Check out these Lamp Mode releases:
“Storiez” shai linne
“Expository Journey” Evangel
“To Die is Gain” Stephen The Levite
“Life on Life” Json
“Theophanies” Hazakim
S.O.U.L | Pg13
S.O.U.L | Pg14
>The historic phrase “the whole man” refers to one who is a very well rounded, balanced, and an over-all effective person. Well, John Wells, aka “Tonic” came off on his album, The Dash, in a very holistic way that’ll make your head bob, your mind think, and your soul get fed. The title refers to that hyphen on the tombstone between the birth date and death date, representing one’s life. Although it was a few years in the making, the album was very much worth the wait, and if you haven’t yet tuned your ear to it, you don’t know what you’re missing. The foundational artist of the renown group The Cross Movement, and founder / CEO of Cross Movement Records finally released his first solo project on March 31, 2009, and will probably be one of the year’s best hip-hop albums. From a very symbolic album cover, to the range of issues and topics addressed, to the variety of style and quality content, to the guest artists that turned up the heat, this one is definitely a banger. As Tonic has stated the signature on every Cross Movement album, he’s sure to kick off this project with the unmistakable notion that The Signature is still the same. Make no mistake about it – Christ is the center, the point, and the purpose of the album’s representation. He’s the verbal Johnny Hancock, and proudly so. Sin Universal keeps us from forgetting that sin is still the ultimate issue that lives beneath the surface of all that’s messed up in the world. No matter how ugly or clean the wrongs of life may look, we’re reminded in this song of the common cause, and therefore the common solution for salvation in Christ. R Swift, who, of course, ripped it in his representation, joins tonic on this track. Swift describes the ills of street life, while Tonic addresses white collar crime and global injustice as stemming from the same root. Really Know Me ventures out to speak to the growing comfort with fruitless Christianity. Although the track makes you want to lean way back in your driver seat, relax and slow down your speed, it’s probably the song that will cause the most controversy – and I’m feelin’ it! The listener is lovingly challenged to take the authentic faith test, and encouraged to experience the pleasure of really knowing Christ. You’ll also get a taste of Tonic’s singing skills on this one. No Time is filled with intensity by a blazing, fast-paced track, and Tonic’s classic bulldog style of delivery. We’re reminded in this jam of the urgency to proclaim the gospel and be about Kingdom business in this life of very little time. The approach is madd creative, as he portrays to be on a stealth mission where a wire gets tripped, and he has only so much time to state his case before he’s out. The pressure increases as Earthquake is counting down each second of the track in the background. We even get an autotune effect -I never thought I could couple the idea of Tonic’s voice and auto tune, but it was fire.
yet also draws us to worship God for how great He is in spite of those things. Dr Visit is a simple but powerful interlude in which Tonic really puts himself out there. It’s simple because it’s a one-on-one interview with his physician, and powerful because of the level of vulnerability that Tonic chooses to entrust to his listeners. Here we get the reason behind the 4-year delay of the album, due to his struggle with anxiety at that time, and a description from Dr Tim about the toll that can have on one’s body and mind. Probably Nothin evangelistically poses the challenge of taking a few minutes to listen to what God has to say. Joined by the talented TRU Life and Mac the Doulos, each artist skillfully describes a conversation they had in asking someone to take a little time to hear what they have to say, namely to hear the gospel. Prayer’s Ball really slows it down and takes a mellow, creative twist on D Money’s annual Las Vegas “player’s ball.” In this joint Tonic brings out the foundational necessity to commune with the Father, not only individually, but also for God’s people to make the effort of coming together for that express purpose. We get a smoothed-out reminder to lay before God the things that weigh us down, and to be sure not to forget our “thank you’s…thank you’s… thank you’s…thank you’s…” Other songs include performances by Iz-real, the rock group Shachah, and La’Tia Johnson. The Dash is definitely an album that presents authentic, refreshing truth through versatile, quality production, and talented lyricism. Not only is it musically intriguing, but it would also be hard to have listened to it not feel like you’ve been heavily hit with several important issues in the Christ-following life. This project has truly achieved its goal in both talent and content. You’ll be reminded of how important the dash of your life is, and all it’s supposed to represent in that short window of opportunity between your birth date and death date, and enjoy a hot album in the process. ••• Album Track Listing 1. The Dash In (Intro) 2. The Signature 3. Can’t Count Me Out feat. Iz-Real 4. Sin Universal feat. R-Swift 5. Really Know Me 6. Dot Dot Dash (Interlude) 7. No Time feat. Earthquake 8. Da Body feat. Cruz Cordero & Enock 9. The Greatest feat. Ron Jacob 10. Dr. Visit (Interlude) 11. Probably Nothing feat. Mac the Doulos & T.R.U.- L.I.F.E 12. Who Shot Cha 13. Prayer’s Ball 14. Don’t Start Nothing 15. Deliver Us feat. Shachah 16. The Dash feat. La’Tia Johnson 17. The Dash Out (Outro) 18. I Am…Still! feat. La’Tia Johnson & Keran (Bonus Track) To check out more from The Tonic, visit: www.crossmovementrecords.com
Da Body skillfully speaks to God’s people, reminding us of our need for one another, even with all of our family issues. To help create the sentimental vibe of this jam, Tonic let’s us know who he “Nock” and who he “Cruz” wit. Yup, it’s the surprise appearances of Enock and Cruz Cordero, who haven’t lost their ability to break it down skillfully. The Greatest echoes the theme of many of the Psalms that encourage us in who God is. In this jam Tonic reminds us that the consistent trustworthy character of God isn’t changed or affected by the circumstances that throw us for a loop. Its two-fold impact is that it identifies with a variety of painful circumstances in life, S.O.U.L | Pg15
with
nosmo king
There is no better soundtrack for the summer than the island sounds of roots reggae. When I hear the word “reggae”, usually the first name that pops into my head is Bob Marley. But when I think of “gospel reggae”, the first artist that comes to mind is Christafari. Over the last twenty years Christafari has worked at pioneering the genre of gospel reggae and blazing a trail for other artists to follow. Did you know that there are over 500 gospel reggae artists worldwide? Gospel reggae is undoubtedly the fastest growing subgenre in both the Christian and reggae genres. Two Gospel Reggae artists that I want to feature in this issue come from Christafari’s stable of artists, Avion Blackman and Rogé Abergel.
Avion Blackman “Sweet Life” Lion of Zion Entertainment
Hailing from the twin-island Caribbean Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Avion was raised in the jungle by her father Ras Shorty I, the inventor of Soca Music (a beat was borrowed by dancehall and Reggaeton). Avion is from a very large musical family - with 24 brothers and sisters! She was brought up on a diet of world music and the Word of God. She now lives in California and is married to Christafari front man Mark Mohr. She plays bass with Christafari and sings in the group, in addition to her solo work. Sweet Life is a beautiful follow-up to Avion’s award winning solo debut, Onyinye (ALBUM Of The YEAR). Unlike her previous album that was primarily acoustic, this time around she pays tribute to her Caribbean heritage. Sweet Life has been described as “A breezy blend of organic roots reggae with echoes of folk, worship, World, soca, R&B and neo-soul.” It’s the Wailers meet Sade with an urban flare! In addition to reggae (that’s predominant throughout), there are touches of Neo Soul (Sweet Life), R&B (Strength to Strength), World Music (As We Tumble), and Worship (Yeshua). Her soothing songs on love and relationships are inspirational and brimming with honesty. This album is sure to calm your mind and inspire your soul! Avion’s smile and spirit shine through her music as she sings sunny songs of hope and faith over reggae infused soulful ballads. For more information on Avion visit www.avionblackman.com.
Rogé Abergel and Kingdom Culture “Onward & Upward” Lion of Zion Entertainment
When I think of African reggae, the first artists that come to mind are Alpha Blonde, Majek Fashek and Lucky Dube, but this vast continent has so much more to offer. Born in Morocco (North Africa) and raised in the Ivory Coast (West Africa), Rogé Abergel (pronounced Row-jay Aber-jel) proves the old adage that you should never judge a book by its cover. While Rogé may not look like your typical reggae artist, his sound is undeniable. Onward and Upward is an organic offering of gospel reggae with a nostalgic sound reminiscent of Bob Marley and Burning Spear, with a 21st century twist. It is rustic roots reggae with a relevant message. Roge isn’t just a talented singer; he’s also a pastor of a vibrant church in Van Nuys, CA. Roge draws inspiration with Onward and Upward from his genuine faith, echoing the cries for spiritual liberation often associated with the genre. Standout tracks include “Righteous Warrior,” “Go Ye,” and “Jerusalem.” Backed by members of the Christafari crew and recorded by Mark Mohr and Solomon Jabby, this is soul shaking roots and dub at its best! For more info on Roge, his CDs, MP3 downloads and everything else that is gospel reggae check out gospelreggae.com •••
S.O.U.L | Pg16
DaSouth.com’s Re-launch and expanded vision By Sketch the Journalist It’s not like Christian hip-hop is lacking online community and news websites. We’ve got HolyCutlure.net, Rapzilla.com, VesselVibe.com, and Sphereofhiphop.com holding it down, right? However, few are as eye-catching and chock-full of facts and opinion as DaSouth.com. Launched on America’s Election Day of November 4, 2008, the new DaSouth.com is a resurrection of an online hub previously started by noted Christian hip-hop journalist “slave”. A veteran writer for Heaven’s Hip Hop Magazine and founder of ONEMIND Magazine, slave created DaSouth.com to be unified banner site for gospel rappers in the Gulf Coast area. The concept was that artists would forgo forging their own web identities and adopt the DaSouth. com name. Instead of www.truvine.com or www.tre9.com, early site members simply claimed DaSouth.com as their home address. The front page linked in all of the affiliated artists and set itself up for synergistic cross-marketing. The idea being that when a listener or new fan received an album insert or poster with www.DaSouth.com printed on it from “Artist A” and sought out his ministry online, he would also be introduced to “Artist B,” “Artist C,” “Artist D,” and so on. “Hip-Hop media needed a network for ‘da south’ so I made one. Plus it gave me a great opportunity to contribute locally,” Slave said. “That made it more about friends, which really appealed to me since I was growing up [spiritually and emotionally]. Artists began to confide in me. I didn’t care about their music, I cared about the person. God made it a very healing time for me. I got more out of founding DaSouth.com than I could have ever put in.” One of the site’s early adopters was K-Drama. Although he hailed from Cincinnati, Ohio, his music easily appealed to residents of the Third Coast. It was something that drew Drama to the site and the main reason slave invited him to join in 2001. “I respected the artists that grinded on DaSouth.com and was happy that someone had faith in what I was doing,” K-Drama said. “Other than Grapetree [Records], it was hard for me to find southern sounding Christian rap, so a network full of them definitely made me feel at home away from home.” Another early affiliate was Much Luvv Records’ CY, an artist who still carries the original URL nomenclature for his website: www.dasouth. com/complex. Slave saw something special in this fellow Houstonian and asked if he could create an Internet presence for CY that was ultimately connected to the main hub. “If it wasn’t for Slave I would not have had a website,” CY said. “Another reason I’ve kept the domain name was through the leading of the Holy Spirit. I had no idea that DaSouth.com would become the mega site it is now.”
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Although the original vision of DaSouth.com was unity through a single name, the ties that bound began to fray as artists joined but also kept an individual URL on the side. It became harder to sell and get buy-in for the idea and eventually the site withered away to a simple, yet lively, message board. Slave also found his passions steadily shifting away from the Christian rap community to a group nearly as underground. “Deaf culture,” Slave explained. “I left the world of hip-hop to serve the people who didn’t hear it.” Slave enrolled in college level American Sign Language classes and began to get involved in deaf church ministries and stage plays. This left little time to maintain DaSouth.com. However, he knew of a local Christian rapper and business owner who was an emerging leader in both his city and the movement as a whole. In 2008, Slave handed over ownership of DaSouth.com to Bobby “Tre9” Herring. Tre9 had previously worked with Aziz “Zee” Peregrino-Brimah’s Bezworks Designs company when he needed a website for his All Eye On Me Achievement Awards show. Pleased with the outcome of that venture, the two formed an official partnership and started to plan for an attention-grabbing re-launch of DaSouth.com. The new site would be more of a news and multi-media hub than a conglomerate site for individual artists. And despite its name and heritage, the new DaSouth.com would also expand its scope beyond the bottom half of the Mason-Dixon line. “Honestly, God is the one who changed the focus,” Zee said. “When the game changes, the plays you run change. When in war, when there has been a change within the enemy, you too have to change and take on a new directive. “To focus only on the South while using the World Wide Web is an oxymoron of sorts.” Not that web heads seemed to mind. DaSouth.com is experiencing tremendous growth. The site now gets nearly six million hits a month. And from its Election Day launch to Valentine’s Day (four months), the site had 1,000 registrants. One month later another 1,000 joined – effectively doubling its membership. “That’s an amazing feat,” Zee said. “With those kind of numbers, we can approach corporations confidently for sponsorships and other initiatives. One thing Tre and I are thankful for is that God has given us business-sense and a passionate desire to see Christian hip-hop propelled forward.” The site’s original founder also supports the shift in focus. “It seems to be bringing together everyone,” Slave said. “That’s just Bobby’s way. He has that gift.” And despite the fact that the new DaSouth.com is owned by two active gospel rap artists, it never seems to be pushing their specific agenda or ministry. If anything, both Zee and Tre9 appear to be underserved by DaSouth.com. “Many people would assume that I would have Much Luvv on everything at DaSouth.com, but that is not my vision, it’s beyond that,” Tre9 said. “We create the environment for God to move via DaSouth.com’s online community. We are unifying Christian hip-hop by being a respecter of no one. “You might see a person you never heard of before in the top news section or you might see an award-winning artist. One thing you won’t see is our personal preferences or tastes only.” These days, the site has all matter of cutting edge multi-media features, including streaming radio (with DJ D-Lite’s 3rd Coast Fiyah and The Wade-O Show), a video channel, artist interviews, music leaks, album reviews, and has become a destination for all things gospel rap. “I absolutely love the new DaSouth.com website. It reminds me of allhiphop.com and we need that, man!” K-Drama said. “It’s updated regularly and it keeps people drawn to it daily because of the ‘up-to-the-minute’ news blurbs and leaks.” DaSouth.com recently added Facebook-type community building utilities to the site and is revamping its radio station sub-section. Both Zee and Tre9 view the interactive portal as a business ministry. “Our ultimate goal is to expand and maximize our exposure to the world as a genre,” Zee said. “DaSouth.com is strategically aligning itself to be a part of that same ‘lane’ [as mainstream media] so that we can influence and win as many people to Jesus as possible.” •••
I’ve always wondered if people who run in their own lanes truly realize that they set the standards for things to come. I’ve sat and listened to hours of the Wade-O Radio podcast leading up to this interview. No, not for the interview itself but because…point blank, Wade has positioned himself as one of the go to guys for exclusive music and insights into artists current projects and lives that we wouldn’t get anywhere else. Being a frontrunner in an industry, that seems off the radar sometimes, may seem like an easy task but Wade Harris makes it his biz to keep it fresh, relevant, true to Gospel and reminding people that it’s still “More than music…it’s ministry”.
Article by: Swing I’ve had the chance to talk to Wade-O, during Flavor Fest ’06, before his radio show expanded as it has. So now, a little less than 3 years later I got a chance to catch up with him to discuss music, faith, his future and…yup, THE Ohio State.
Swing: Back when you and I first met down in Tampa for Flavor Fest ’06, you were at like Episode 47 I think. I’m not sure of you fan base at the time but did you expect the popularity of the show to be what it is right now?
Wade-O: I’ma put it to you like this; I started this show out to share with my friends and
people that I knew about the music I was listening to. I go to a black Baptist church where you got about 5,000 members and the people haven’t really heard of anything about HHH outside of maybe The Crossmovement. Maybe a few people. I started listening to all this music. I started listening to Da T.R.U.T.H., Brotha Tone, my man Oppose, R-Swift, Richie Righteous, Corey Redd, and people hadn’t heard of ‘em. Even though we’re in Jersey 20 minutes from New York. I mean…nah…no way I thought it would get like this because the reality is I didn’t know this Christian Hip Hop…a lot of this stuff even existed, man. The websites, Crossoverchurch.org, I didn’t know. I was a babe. I didn’t know what I was getting into. The Lord knows me. If I would’ve known I probably wouldn’t have gotten into it. I’m not I regret into to this, not at all. I probably would have talked myself out of it. Like, I’m not worthy of doing it. “You may start out with the faith of a mustard seed, like people like to always say, but in 10 years you shouldn’t still be foolin’ with that mustard seed. You should at least have an apple or something, man.”
Swing:
Wow! Thank God that He knows us better than we know ourselves, right? (laughter) So, what was your introduction to HHH? Who was the first artist that got your attention early on?
Wade-O: Awww man! That’s interesting. My man Oppose. We went to Howard [University] together and he gave me the “Rock Soul Volume 1” compilation. You had Crossmovement, and early Da T.R.U.T.H, before “Moment of Truth” came out, Duce and Michelle Bonilla had a record together. The people I was really feelin’ was…I’ve always loved the East Coast, street hip hop, man. Like Black Moon and Biggie. That’s what I grew up with, so Corey Red, J. Johnson (formerly known as J-Silas), Todd Bangz and Precise. I love those dudes. They really had the street edge. I grew up in church, but I didn’t have the relationship so those dudes impressed me. Especially J-Silas, man. If I had to pick one, then he was the dude. Swing: Alright, let’s go back a little farther. How did you get your started as a DJ? Wade-O: I’m from Columbus, Ohio. That’s where I grew up. When I went away for college at Howard University I hooked up with a brother by the name of DJ Infinite. We became friends and we stayed in the same dorm. We kinda stayed in the same circles and we liked the same music. He was already DJing and had a show on Howard’s stu-
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dent station (830 AM WHBC shout outs to the station!) and I started going with him. I always loved music, man. I was buying records even before I was a DJ. That’s how much I loved hip hop and music. So, I started go up there with him and started messing around that summer between my freshman and sophomore year. I bought my turntables…and the rest is history, man. I used to be in the crib for like 3 or 4 hours a day just getting it in. Just practicing or DJing a party or listening to the radio just listening to how they did it. Then my senior year… I was probably doing almost every club in D.C. I was just trying to get that money. Then the Lord grabbed me the day after I graduated and that was it. He took over! I stopped DJing for like 4 years. I was hearing about HHH and then around ‘06 I really felt burdened to get back and really share this music was I listening to with some of my friends and so I started a podcast…and “the rest is history” as they say, man.
Swing:
What would you say is your contribution to this Holy Hip Hop genre, if any?
Wade-O: I pray that my contribution is that the people that listen to the show get encouraged, find out some things about chances that maybe they didn’t know. Get to see the hearts of some of the artists that they like or maybe someone they had misconceptions about. The reality is there were cats doing the podcasts before me. Shouts out to Vic Padilla with Holy Culture Radio, Headz Up FM. These cats been grindin’ for a minute. Sphere of Hip Hop didn’t start with the podcast, but they had the XM Radio show. Now they doin’ it. “We gotta stop fighting with each other over theology, man.”
Swing: How do you get some of your ideas for your shows format? Wade-O: I listen to a lot of sports talk ra-
dio. Ask anybody that’s ever got into a car with me. I get a lot of my ideas for formatting my podcasts based off sports talk radio.
Swing: Let’s be honest for a sec, HHH album sales don’t necessarily rival those of the secular arena, which isn’t as important to most of us. What since you’ve started listening to and being involved with HHH what have you seen as being the biggest area of growth for us? Wade-O:
Oh, I think musically. I think back to those early albums that I got back in ’03-’04. I just think sonically. The sound, the songwriting. This is not taking away from anybody that was doing it back then but people’s songwriting has just improved. Look at somebody like Lecrae, Da T.R.U.T.H., Braille. These guys are phenomenal songwriters. They can craft songs. KJ-52 is another one, man. That’s why these guys get nominated for awards and people gravitate
towards their music. The music sonically has just improved dramatically, man. I think the areas we can improve on going forward is how we do business, how we present ourselves, how we interact in the market place. Another thing is, we gotta stop fighting with each other over theology, man. I’m all for sound doctrine. The truth is not relative. There’s definitely, absolutely ONE truth, but I think we spend too much time arguing over things that aren’t essentials. I live in North New Jersey. It’s real degenerate out here, man. Like, cats hearts ain’t right with God. I don’t have time to argue with you about some theology. We need to bust this up and share the Gospel with people. Let them know that Jesus is real and really live that faith out. That’s the commandment. I’m all for sound doctrine, make no mistake about it please, but that can’t be all we’re focused on. As you can see I’m a little frustrated by it. I’m not gonna front.
Swing: No, I honestly agree with what you’re saying. I remember listening to Episode 98, where you interviewed “The Frontlynaz”. I heard Wit mention something that I never took into consideration before. Speaking about Christian rappers not being “Holy” or saying “God” enough or whatever He suggested that people stop look for rappers to be their only connection to the scriptures and, basically, get out and read the Word for themselves. You get to meet a lot of artists in this genre, how big of an issue is that with the folks you’ve talked to or is it? Wade-O:
I can say this, shai linne, that brother is phenomenal, because his calling is definitely to emcee, but it’s also to teach. He marries the two so beautifully. His teaching is necessarily life application type messages it’s teaching on different doctrines. I think that’s important and I’d never take that away, but I think a group like the Frontlynaz have a different calling. So to compare them and say, ‘they don’t teach enough in their music’, well that’s not their calling in music. If you’re looking for that then they’re not the group for you. I just did a show with them [Frontlynaz], because I’m their DJ, and the music kept going out, right. The music, microphones and sound system kept going out and they still held it down. They still kept the kids engaged and shared the message of Jesus Christ with them. Another artist may not have been able to function the same way they did in that setting.
Swing: Let’s talk about faith for a second. I know that you and I have had a couple online conversations about remaining in faith and discovering and developing your purpose. Did what you’re doing now for the genre ever come face to face with a situation that caused you to wonder if it was going to happen at all and make you dig into your faith? Wade-O: I can’t speak for anybody else but I’m confronted with those types of things
everyday. I’m gonna give you something recent. This bill that the House of Representatives is passing that’s basically going to change the face of radio. There’s basically and additional royalty they want paid from radio stations to musicians, songwriters, performance fees. That creates a whole different business model than what we had going into this thing. Something like that I read about online or on CNN and your first reaction, because you’re human, is like, ‘dag, how am I gonna handle this’? Them I’m like, you shouldn’t be worried about the “how”, but you need to be worrying about the actual “doing”. Let the chips fall where they may. The more situations, the more you live life, the more you trust in God the more your faith grows. You may start out with the faith of a mustard seed, like people like to always say, but in 10 years you shouldn’t still be foolin’ with that mustard seed. You should at least have an apple or something, man. You’re joint should be a little bigger like and apple, orange, golf ball or something but you shouldn’t still be bangin’ with that mustard seed.
Swing: So what’d you think about Flavor Fest when you were here last? Wade-O: Ya’ll ministry man…let me tell you something man. I’m still blown away from when I was down there 2 years ago man. You in the midst of it so it’s probably like second nature to you but me and my manager talk all the time like, “Man, somebody need to start a hip hop themed church out here.” Swing:
That’s what Flavor Fest is about man. I know a lot of new believers or people who are new to HHH hear about the Fest they think of it as just this BIG concert. What they don’t realize is the days leading up to the concert are the workshops.
Wade-O: Honestly, that was best part for me, was the workshops! (laughter). I think anybody that doesn’t take advantage of the workshops when they’re down there is kinda cheatin’ themselves, man. ••• Catch DJ Wade-O spinning the hottest Holy Hip Hop has to offer on his podcasts on itunes or check out his website for at: + wadeoradio.com + myspace.com/wadeoradio + twitter.com/wadeoradio + bridgefm.org 103.1 FM Metro New Jersey & New York 89.7 FM MONMOUTH/OCEAN COUNTIES, NJ. 99.7 FM SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY 94.3 FM PONOMA, NY 98.9 FM POUGHKEEPSIE, NY (SATURDAY NIGHTS/ SUNDAY MORNINGS 11PM-1AM)
ONLINE 24/7 ***WADE O HOTLINE 877-55-WADE-O***
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•
Reach Records “DWYL Tour” (Don’t Waste Your Life) is hitting over 25 cities this summer. The tour consists of the Reach Records Fam – Lecrae, Sho Baraka, Tedashii and Trip Lee joined by CMR artist Flame. Some of the S.O.U.Lteam was in Orlando, Florida when the tour came through as they rocked to a crowd of over 1,700 people. Several venues have actually sold out. This is said to be the largest amount of people any Christian Hip-Hop tour has ever seen. Check out www.reachrecords.com for dates and details. As our genre continues to grow the avenues of media also continue to expand and mature. Writer and Filmmaker Booker T. Mattison just released a new fictional book “Unsigned Hype”. The book received endorsements from Phanatik, Pete Rock and DJ Essence among many others. You can find out more about Unsigned Hype at www.unchartedterrotory.com. Look for an official review in an upcoming issue.
•
As this issue is about to hit the presses the anticipation is building for CMR artist Da’ T.R.U.T.H.’s forth album “The Big Picture” coming out on July 21st. Our sources tell us this album is sonically different and out of the box from any of Truth’s past projects. Da T.R.U.T.H. is also rockin’ “The Big Picture” Tour this summer as datruth.net describes it as “a multi-media, cinematic worship experience shaped by the music and ministry from the new album.”
Word on the Street with upcoming Releases:
The UK sensation that tore up the DWYL track on Lecrae’s album – DWAYNE TRYMPF is set to have a full project dropping in September. KJ-52 is definitely one of the hardest working cats in Christian hip-hop. He’s constantly touring, blogging, twittering, producing and making new music. He’s set to drop another one this fall. Our scene hasn’t heard from TODD BANGZ in a minute, but he broke the silence and did some recent interviews as he’s getting back in the mix with his producing and rhyming – look for something new from him soon. HUMBLE TIP has been busy in 09’ as he dropped two new music videos and a mix tape. His full-length joint is set to drop in September. Independent artist VIKTORY has been making noise this summer with his new video and new project featuring some heavy hitters like Canton Jones, Lisa Kimmey (Out of Eden), and Marvin Winans, Jr. He’s definitely been grinding on the promotion tip as you see him all over the net. Speaking of CANTON JONES… his new album got pushed back until next year as he instead just released Kingdom Business part II and dropped his new video for the title track. You may have seen this next guy rockin’ some ill moves on the stage in the past with Toby Mac, but he’s also been rhyming for a hot minute – SHONLOCK is rumored to have some new music dropping before the year is out. APPLEJAXX is known for his creative out the box style, as he has been part of Tonex’s crew. He’s set for an upcoming September release. Reach Records of course has been busy steadily releasing projects and curriculum and touring - we heard the next cat to drop from the crew is scheduled to be SHO BARAKA. Our featured cover artist BRAILLE is always grinding as a family man, label owner and artist. He’s also currently working on new material… so stay tuned!
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T
is allowed companies with bad management and weak business models continue to operate as mostly government owned entities. I am just hoping that the stimulus that was allocated to infrastructure projects like roads and bridges will get these crews
imes like these show that even America’s
economy is vulnerable.
Is our economic foundation strong
enough to withstand this powerful blow? We hear words like “bust” and “boom” that until just recently never quite hit home like they do now. We took for granted the great wealth of this nation and how incredibly fast and easy it was to get money. The American culture traded saving accounts for credit card statements, with no worry about where the next buck was coming from. We just had the “faith” to believe it would be there. How did the real estate boom and now bust that is shaking our world come about? The lending industry found some loopholes that let them change lending practices and created the adjustable rate mortgages with no money down financing. This introduced sub prime lending in a big way. Sub prime lending is loans given to people that are considered to be higher risk. You remember those loan ads, “No Credit? No Money? No Problem!” Financial institutions took these loans and with some faulty computer modeling created new mortgage backed securities (MBS). This made it possible to trade these MBSs on Wall Street and incredible returns made these securities irresistible to investors. The dream of owning a home made these risky loans irresistible to us. Through the hype of the U.S. real estate market we all got caught up in the bubble mentality. Those who took sub prime loans told themselves they were finally getting their dream home and closed their eyes to what they were really signing up for - a bad loan. Money and homes seemed to be within the reach of all people. But these MBSs created an unheard of demand and soon the market could no longer sustain the incredible overvaluation of homes and the bubble busted.
The government then poured billions of stimulus dollars into banks, insurance firms and businesses too big to supposedly fail, right? This was only to have GM and Chrysler go into bankruptcy anyway. The only thing the bailout has done successfully
Our culture “ really struggles with giving up the luxuries working again soon.
of life.
When the Government is the owner of private businesses it is called Nationalization, which leads to socialism. We should all be very cautious about our future with this type of action in the private sector. The devastating effects of a socialistic government can clearly be seen throughout recent history. Remember the schools that fell on all those Chinese children? Or do you remember the 30 years of food and electricity shortages of “Mother” Russia? I am not saying the Government should do nothing, I just think that owning AIG, GM, Chrysler and others in the private sector is just too strong of a move on private sector business. With all the controversy about the Government taking over businesses, some great news that just hit recently was that ten banks have been approved to give back 68 billion dollars of tax payer’s money from the first stimulus payout. These next few months are critical. We cannot give up our right to let our elected congressmen and senators know we are watching and to remind them that the 2010 election is right around the corner. It still amazes me how widespread this recession is. We all understood that construction would be hit hard but I don’t know anyone that really thought we would be in a recession this deep. The amount of boarded up businesses in my community makes me want to call it much more than that. The job loss numbers are
overwhelming, especially in urban areas. There are only a few businesses like Wall-Mart and McDonalds that have been showing growth in this economy. As for Busy Bee Waste Services, my small business, it has been very scary. We are primarily a rolloff business that provides dumpsters for construction sites and (next page) S.O.U.L | Pg25
other businesses with high volume waste needs. Busy Bee has
come. That is definitely something I think we all want. She and
been down over 60%. We are down to one truck and one driver
the boys kicked the garden into high gear giving the family plenty
(me). By God’s grace we have been able to hang on.
of fresh organic food. She is buying our grain in bulk so she can mill and make fresh bread for the family. On top of all that, she
Here is one of many times I have tried in my anxiety to do the
just recently started a business of her own, one that she can in-
right thing and then God in His goodness has worked the rest
clude the kids in helping her with. And hopefully, this new venture
out. A once competitor of mine, Jim, decided to liquidate his
may bring some extra money into our home. Being innovative,
company in order to save his real estate from foreclosure. He
willing to work a little harder and spending a lot more time on our
offered me and some of our other competitors an opportunity to
knees will give us God’s perspective. And that will always give us
buy his customer list and remaining equipment. So, of course, I
hope that we can truly believe in.
sat down with him and looked at the business and prayed (a lot).
“
We the people of America have some very tough challenges
Remember that money is just a Tool, it is not what gives value to a man.
”
ahead.
Ones that are hard but not impossible to overcome.
Many economists say that inflation of the dollar and higher interest rates are coming soon. So many have lost their homes and jobs but it truly saddens me to see the further destruction of the family. The financial state of our household cannot dictate the hope of the family. When times like these come along it is time to show the world the character of this country and her people. Paul says in Philippians 4:11-12 that he has learned to be content in every situation whether it is one of need or plenty. Our
I have made two things a life practice, because whenever ap-
culture really struggles with giving up the luxuries of life. Paul
plied they have saved my “tail”.
is a great example of a man that lived in prisons and was happy
1) “First seek the counsel of the LORD.” -2 Chronicles18:14. 2) Seek the counsel of godly men... - who are where I would like to be.
because his happiness was not derived in the things of this world but in the hope of his Lord. Remember that money is just a Tool, it is not what gives value to a man. Nothing says it better than Hebrews 13:5. Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never
I knew what I did with this offer was pivotal. I passed on Jim’s
will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So we say with confi-
offer hoping it was the right choice. After a few weeks I heard
dence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man
from a friend that the roll-off company was sold to my competi-
do to me?” This country and her people have been some of the
tor. I had a hard time sleeping. All night my mind was a battle-
most creative and resilient people on the face of this earth. We
field where hope was being crushed by visions of total defeat.
are truly a blessed people and those of us who are Christians
I just prayed and prayed and prayed some more. I finally had
should be leading the way.
some peace about it and resolved to just keep plugging away and reminding myself that God will show His favor. I didn’t hear
Count your blessing just to be in this country. Although it may
anything for a month or so and then out of the blue Jim calls me.
feel like times are tough, we still have a quality of life better then
The deal fell through and he found an out of state buyer for his
93% of the rest of the world. You and your family still have the
equipment (which I did not need), only he could not get all the
opportunity to own a business, a home, go to college and wor-
dumpsters off the worksites fast enough to sell them. So, in
ship our Lord freely. There are so many people that will never
exchange for getting all his dumpsters back to him I got all of his
even dream of what you are able to accomplish. During these
customers (which I needed). It showed me how powerfully the
times, Christians, above all else need to live with sound minds
Lord works in our lives when we are willing to listen no matter
and sore knees. •••
how uncomfortable it feels. My amazing wife is taking care of our family in new ways too. It started out by reading Proverbs 31:10-31. In particular verse 25 says that the woman being described could laugh at the days to
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In-no-va-tion (in-uh-vey-shun) - The introduction
of new things or methods. Those who are directly responsible of the innovation are often called pioneers in their field.
ally a great place to be because then God can use us to begin to innovate and do some things we would have missed if everything had lined up in the first place. It’s funny because a lot of times the end result ends up being much greater than if we would have had all the resources from the jump.
In many situations we see that innovation comes from
facing impossible obstacles. In some cases it’s even watching
something come from basically nothing. That’s the story of hip-
took place. There was a crippled dude that was begging at the
hop’s humble beginnings. I recently was reading a book called
temple gate called Beautiful. He had dibbs on this prime spot.
“IT” by Craig Groeschel and I had one of those epiphany type mo-
Everyday he went there and held down his spot to get some money
ments. It talked about the old saying “Where God guides he pro-
just so he could eat. The day that Acts 3 describes was just an-
vides”. He challenged that and reworked it and said, “Where God
other usual day where he got carried by some of his people to his
doesn’t provide, he guides.” You may have to read that a few times
same old spot and was anticipating getting some spare change
and let that soak in. I did. But, then it clicked and it made so much
so he could get some food like he always did. The truth is he was
sense as that’s so much of my story and for some of you innovators
about to get something he only dreamed about. When he saw
reading this – I’d guess it’s part of your story too.
Peter and John about to enter he asked them for some money. We
In Acts chapter 3 there was an incredible miracle that
all know how it can feel awkward when someone we don’t know
You still may not get it, so let me break it down some
is asking us for money. Even if we have it, we don’t know what
more. When it comes to doing music, or ministry, or business there
they’re going to do with it, but many people feel guilty and just give
are certain things that we think we need in place in order to be suc-
it to them anyways.
cessful and really make the impact that we think we’re supposed to. God gives us a vision and then he gives us the provision, right?
Well, yes he absolutely always provides, but many times not in the
thing so much greater. If Peter and John would have had some
way that we think he would or he should. We get the vision and
change with them they may have just gave to the beggar and
then we think – okay now God will send the investors or the record
quickly moved on and entered the temple to pray. But, they didn’t
label or the right hook up and then it seems none of those things
have anything. Acts 3:4 says, “Peter looked straight at him, as did
are happening the way we thought they were going to. This is actu-
John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!” So the man gave them his
S.O.U.L | Pg28
Here’s where we see a lack of resources bring some-
Written By; Tommy Kyllonen aka Urban D.
attention, expecting to get something from them. Then Peter said,
didn’t stop us. Innovation was born. We didn’t even have a drum
‘Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name
machine (the one on the keyboard was cheese!), but we started
of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.’ Taking him by the right hand,
sampling beats and chopping them up and adding baselines and
he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became
other samples. I even broke out my trumpet and we sampled it for
strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk.” If they would
one of the choruses.
have had some money, they might have missed that! If the beggar would have got what he was asking for he might have never been
We didn’t let our lack of resources stop us. We were
walking again. Sometimes our temporary lack of something might
hungry. We learned, we got creative and we stretched ourselves.
be the biggest blessing we could ever imagine!
After 6 months of hitting it hard we had a final product and I scrapped up enough money to press up 300 cassette tapes (that
When I started doing hip-hop music over a decade ago
was the lowest quantity they pressed up). In just a few months I
I had just moved to Florida and I didn’t know anyone that made
sold all of them and took the money and jumped back in the studio
beats. There wasn’t the network of beat makers that we have in
to make 3 remixes and a new track. We added that to the project
the Christian hip-hop community today. God had given me this vi-
and pressed up 500 CD’s and 500 more cassettes. As things de-
sion to do hip-hop for him and I initially thought some record label
veloped we watched God provide ministry opportunities left and
would have to come along and hook me up. I was so clueless
right. Two years later I put out my 2nd independent release and
about the music industry and the process of even making music.
continued to grow as an artist and minister. Eventually I got signed
No label came along, but soon I met some brothers in Christ that
to a few different labels and I’ve been humbled to put out 4 nation-
had a similar mindset and they wanted to help me get my first proj-
ally distributed projects and have been able to travel around the
ect started. My man Johnny Jamz offered me his studio and his
world and impact countless people with the gospel. The vision lit-
boy Marty (S.W.N.) offered to make some beats. The studio basi-
erally unfolded… but in natural eyes over 10 years ago I could have
cally consisted of a Roland keyboard with a sampler, a four track,
looked at that ill-equipped studio that I started in and thought…
one turntable and a tape deck. It wasn’t much to work with, but that
“This is never going anywhere”.
S.O.U.L | Pg29
Tampa, Florida that are part of Crossover Church. Sev
When we face those walls in front of us we have
eral years ago God gave us this vision to focus on those
a choice to either quit or innovate. Church planting has had
influenced by urban/hip-hop culture. There were a lot of
resurgence in the U.S. over the past few years. Lots of great
questions, a lot of doubts and a lot of obstacles. But, that
resources, conferences and networks have been formed to
didn’t stop us. We didn’t have much money, much experi-
help church planters be successful. These are great things
ence or any model to follow. But God used those things
that have helped change many lives and bring many new
to drive us harder to seek him, seek wisdom from others
people to a relationship with Christ. But, sometimes we can
and to dig deep in ourselves and discover some new things.
rely too much on the stuff. Look at the first New Testament
Let me warn you that when you innovate there will be crit-
church in Jerusalem in the book of Acts. They didn’t have a
ics, naysayers and doubters… aka haters. Over the years
building, a full time paid staff, multi-media, a great worship
there were several people that said our ministry wouldn’t
team or any of the things we think we need to have a suc-
last and couldn’t ever grow and wasn’t a real church, etc,
cessful church. But, yet that church grew thousands in just
etc. You have to be careful to the voices that you listen to.
one day on several occasions. Scholars actually say that
The wrong voices have stopped many innovators in their
by the end of the book of acts (about 25 years later) the
tracks. You have to make sure you’re truly tuned into God’s
church in Jerusalem had close to 100,000 people that were
spirit guiding and directing you. Innovation isn’t an easy
a part of it. Historians estimate that Jerusalem’s population
road and it can be real easy to get discouraged. Not every-
was around 200,000 people at that time. That means nearly
one is going to agree with your approach, but you have to
half of the city was part of this church! They literally rocked
learn that’s reality. A very funny guy named Bill Cosby once
their city! It was a true move of God! There had to be a lot
said, “I don’t know the key to success, but I know the key to
of real innovation happening for that to take place.
failure is trying to please everyone.” People will hate on you no matter what your doing or
argue
how big or small it is. One
some good points of how
We
can
of my mentors Rick Warren
things are different today
said, “When you’re small,
in our culture versus when
they’ll dismiss you; when
the church in Jerusalem
you’re growing, they’ll criti-
sparked off. But, we can still
cize you; and when you’re
look at some real models of
large, they’ll resent you. So
innovation in America and
ignore ‘them’ and get on with
overseas where we see God
whatever God has told you
showing up in a huge way
to do!”
and it doesn’t seem to make sense. There are many min-
We’ve
learned
istries I know across the country and around the world that
over the years to listen to His voice and get on with what
don’t have all the stuff and they are doing it big for God’s
He’s called us to do. One of our biggest assets at Cross-
kingdom! Then there are also some big ministries that have
over Church is freedom. Our church is full of creative peo-
all the stuff and it seems over time they’ve become less and
ple that are all for seeing people come to Christ and get
less innovative and less and less effective. Real innovators,
discipled. That’s so important to us as we are constantly
real leaders and real Christ followers don’t let obstacles get
innovating and doing things out of the box to reach the
in their way. They don’t always play it safe – they take risks.
culture. Our people love that. We are continually giving our people platforms to use their gifts and talents to fur-
S.O.U.L | Pg30
I’m privileged to lead a group of innovators in
ther God’s kingdom. This also creates another huge as-
set – ownership. We have a great base of volunteers that donate countless hours to various things that take place at and from our faith community. Our unique approach of reaching the urban culture has lead us to be recognized
This magazine you’re holding in your hands is yet another example of innovation. People would look at the qual-
by Outreach Magazine as one of America’s most innova-
ity and excellence and assume that we have lots of
tive churches and even receive an award at the Innovate
resources and a full time staff. Several companies
Conference as the Innovative Church of the year. It’s been humbling to be listed next to many incredible leaders and great churches that we look up to and learn from. Cross-
and events have approached us to sponsor their events for large sums of money as they think we’re
over was probably the smallest church on the Innovative
“rollin’ like that.” The truth is everyone that is a part
list as most were mega-churches. But, that goes to show
of the S.O.U.LMAG team is a volunteer – from writers,
that you don’t have to be huge or have a lot of resources to
to editors, to photographers, to designers… at this
be innovative and do things in excellence. Our team takes the Kingdom mindset, and being that it’s for God – they go all out! They make incredible sacrifices with their time,
point, nobody gets paid a penny! The money that we generate from ad sales and sales of the maga-
talent and finances to be part of things. The fruit keeps us
zine go for the printing as it’s quite expensive being
going as we watch true transformation in people’s lives.
that we don’t cut corners on quality. Reaching peo-
As you’re finishing up this article I pray that the
light is turning on for you. Maybe you’re just like us in that you don’t have everything you think you need. But, now
ple is our motivation – not money. When you have your priorities and motivation in the right place you can watch God show up and do some amazing
you’re being encouraged that you can push through and
things. I challenge you to step out of your comfort
innovate and watch God provide and do miracles. Right
zone, take some risks and trust Him and watch Him
now you have exactly what you need to do what God has called you to do right now – open your eyes and look for it
make something out of nothing. •••
and innovate!
S.O.U.L | Pg31
Artist: Tedashii Album: Identity Crisis Tracks: 15 Label: Reach Records Release Date: May 26, 2009 Availability: Nationwide
S.O.U.L | Pg34
In the world we live in today it is easy to see why Tedashii would
Tedashii’s hope for this new album is that men would hear the truth
say, “We have a problem!” on his first Reach Records release King-
and respond to God with humility and surrender their lives to Him.
dom People. With the economy in shambles, children lacking pa-
His mission to impact people and share his heart for the Lord is evi-
rental supervision and guidance, the media polluting the air waves
dent. This summer Tedashii and the rest of the 116 Clique will hit
with negativity, etc., the problems continue to rise and the world is
up over 25 cities on the “Don’t Waste Your Life” tour to help people
in no way getting better. Tdot has felt the need to bring some more
regain their focus and share the message of not allowing the pre-
clarity to why this problem continues and why he believes there
cious gift of life that God has given us be wasted and thrown away.
is a conflict in people understanding who they are. Welcome to Tedashii’s latest release Identity Crisis.
Tedashii believes his ministry partner Lecrae sums up the meaning behind the tour best in his song “Don’t Waste Your Life” when he
“I chose the name Identity Crisis for my new album because I rec-
says, “Your money, your singleness, marriage, talents, your time /
ognized we all seem to go through a crisis way before 45 or 60,”
They belong to you to show the world that Christ is divine / That’s
Tedashii said. From kids trying to be accepted on the playground,
why it’s Christ in my rhyme / That’s why it’s Christ all the time / See
to my sinful nature that wars against the spirit, we are [all] walking
my whole world is built around Him / He’s the life in my lines.”
identity crises and need to be set free.” As Tedashii continues on his journey to help people see who they are in Christ, he took some
Since Christ is the pulse behind why the 116 Clique live to share
time out to specify to S.O.U.LMag what his new album is really all
the unashamed message of the Gospel (Romans 1:16), their non-
about.
profit organization ReachLife Ministries continues to strive to produce culturally relevant and biblically accurate resources to see
“I wanted to share my heart on the issue of the Imago Dei and the
true reform in the world. As Tdot puts it, “We want folks to really
doctrine behind that,” Tedashii says. “Mankind was created in the
see the heart behind what we do and the sincerity in which we try
image of God and that being with significant purpose. But when sin
to do it. The 13 Letters curriculum, which is a hip-hop overview of
entered the world we fell and that image in man became distorted
Paul’s letters in the New Testament, is now in stores and we are
or marred greatly. And so folks after that time ’til today are living
hearing many great testimonies on life change taking place.”
“entity crises
life in distortion. So even what we think is right ends up jaded and off because our start was in folly or full of error.”
w [ a l l ] weaa r e lking id
and need to be
set free
Being that we have all messed up and fallen short of getting things right (Romans 3:23), Tedashii understands the only answer and hope is Jesus Christ and us placing our faith in Him and entrusting our life to Him. He believes this is the only way to fix the distortion and get back in right relationship with God the Father. Tdot elaborates on this revelation by saying, “Sin made us enemies with God but through Christ we are given the opportunity to reconcile that. Jesus lived the perfect life man could not, took the punishment we deserved, and then when He died on our behalf God raised Him from the dead for His glory and our eternal salvation. So those who are in Christ, through faith, progressively regain the image they
Knowing that Tdot and the rest of the 116 Clique are big on releasing thought provoking heat that help change lives, it is no surprise that Flame, Trip Lee, Steven the Levite, Sho Baraka, Lecrae, and even Tdot’s wife help him share the Father’s love on his new album Identity Crisis. When asked what song Tdot really wants folks to mediate on he said, “I need cats to check out “I’m a Believer” featuring Trip Lee. That really does sum up my point behind the album. Also, I want cats to peep “Community” featuring Sho Baraka and Steven the Levite. I was discipled in community and with a belief that Christian growth happens effectively as we live life out together centered around the Word.” So whether you catch Tedashii on the “Don’t Waste Your Life” tour, you pick up his album Identity Crisis in stores, or you catch him eating macaroni and cheese and playing Wii Bowling with his wife, his mission is to help you see your true identity in Christ. His prayer is that we as the body of Christ would begin to live life for the sake of others and learn to serve in the ministry we all have been given, the ministry of reconciliation. Tdot is convinced that we are called to serve the world with the gospel and the Father’s love, and to love others as ourselves and express the love of the cross in all our daily actions. So like he says, “Go hard for the Lord mane until He take us home / Go hard for the Father baby gone get it on!” ••• For more information on Tedashii and Reach, visit:
www.reachrecords.com www.reachlife.org
were meant to display and flesh out.” That’s what I’m talking ’bout bwoy!!! Go ’head a take a picture homie. Cheeeeeeese!!! (Smile). S.O.U.L | Pg35
Digital Radio Servicing
How Does HDS Work?
“ HeirChex Digital Servicing (HDS) is just that, a DIGITAL SERVICING company. With the CD coming to a close, as we once knew it, Disc Jockeys are in dire need of proper servicing. We provide that at a fraction of the cost of CD servicing for the labels as well as a decreased/no cost for disc jockeys. HDS is looking to network with radio personalities including radio stations and disc jockeys, as well as artists, labels and promoters”, says Samme Palermo CEO and President of HeirChex.
The artist provides HDS with the song or full project which is then digitized and made available on the HDS website that anyone on the planet can access. The login for the verified radio professional works from ANY computer without ANY software to download. There is NO spyware, NO viruses, NO hassles. The music is an AAC encoded file (mp4) that is near CD quality. HDS includes links to the artist label, website, and even a preview for anyone visiting the website. Only verified radio professionals are able to download the full song as well as see other information about the artist.
What is HDS? (General Overview) HDS is a Christian owned and operated company that distributes music digitally through the internet for radio airplay. HDS is owned by Samme Palermo (CEO), Aaron Monello (CIO), Erik Nielsen (Project Management), and Sharon Dimuro (Counsel). Collectively, we have 80+ years of radio and music experience! HDS gets artist’s music in front of the radio professionals by working with the artists, labels, and promoters to make the song available to radio stations (reporting and non-reporting), disc jockeys, and even mobile DJs!
Why do I Need HDS? Traditionally, an artist has to create a CD, package it, wrap it, and send it to each radio station individually – IF you know all the right addresses and contacts! Then you hope and pray that each CD made it to the right place and not to little Bobby’s iPod or worse, not to mention that you have just spent nearly $5 per CD including shipping! HDS handles all that hassle for you. We post the single (not the whole CD!) and make it available to VERIFIED radio professionals around the world. For follow-up, we give the artist the ability to check to see who downloaded their single, when it was downloaded, and how many times! We offer all the music any radio professional needs all in one convenient location! It is the perfect symbiotic relationship between all professions in the industry!
S.O.U.L | Pg38
What Are The Benefits/Responsibilities? Artists: Instant referral to the artist material on HDS – No more waiting on snail mail for the CD to reach its destination! Radio Professionals: Access to thousands of songs all in one convenient location! The songs are compatible with all the newest and best players and can be converted to any format needed using the built in tools of most of the players (HDS likes iTunes) HDS: HDS will provide the hosting without requiring any contracts. HDS does not require additional fees or costs from the radio professional or artist outside the already advertised prices.
Check out HDS’s pricing: One Single: $99 Three Singles: $269 Dedicated Press Release: $ 75 ***Make sure to let HDS know by specifying,
“Soulmag pricing” Check out the HDS site:
www.heirchex.com
Written by: Kenneth Godbolt aka Broken
He has performed on the same stage as Cross Movement, Lecrae, Trip Lee, K-Drama, Urban D, and many other dope MC’s. Not only is he an artist, he is the coowner of Underground Blaze Records out of Miami, Florida, a.k.a “The Magic City”. If you don’t know who I’m talking about, I’m talking about G-Notes, a.k.a. “The Peruvian Immigrant”. G-Notes just released his sophomore album, “Bright Lights - Magic City”. As we all know, behind every album there is an artist; and behind every artist there’s a story. G-Notes was born in Peru, but raised in the rough streets of Miami. He faced many challenges when he first moved to the states because he didn’t know any English. “It was hard trying to communicate with other people when you don’t know their language. One of my good friends, DeAndre, introduced me to hip-hop at the age of six and that’s how I learned how to speak English,” G-Notes shared. Hip-Hop did not only teach him English, it taught him the way of life. He was heavy in the game at a young age. He chased every rapper’s dream: the girls, the money, the cars, and everything the videos show that makes you a superstar. “The only thing on my mind was getting that money. I gotta get my paper. Man, before I came to Christ I was a goon.” That attitude led him to being shot at, stabbed, and locked up. On the outside he had swagger-always G’d up from head to toe. When he looked inside, he was empty and dry, searching for truth. He was searching for change but knew he couldn’t do it himself. In 1998, G-Notes was invited to a Christian Hip-Hop concert, which changed his life forever. “That night a group, by the name of 1WAY, rocked the stage and their music ministered to me. I gave my heart to the Lord that night and I’ve been going strong for Christ ever since.” The same music that almost killed him… God used to save him. Little did he know that God would eventually use the thing that negatively influenced him in the past, to positively use to have an impact on his future and the future of others. G-Notes signed a record deal with U.G.B Records, where he released his first solo project titled, “Life, Situation, and Stories”, which sold over 1,000 units. “With the first project I wanted to share my testimony. I wanted to share real life situations that I faced in my life, so people can see that God can change any situation. I wanted people to know there is no situation too big for God.” Now back with his sophomore album, Bright Lights, City Magic, G-Notes is making noise nationwide. With guest appearances by some of Christian HipHop’s finest such as Pettidee, Joe Justice, DJ Morph, K-Nuff from Rhema Soul, and a few others. As if that
wasn’t enough - he also has partnered with some of the hottest producers in the game right now: G-Styles, The Beat Mekanicz, K-Drama, Teddy P, and Juice 20/20. Hot collaboration, hot production, and hot lyrics give you a fire album. Here’s what G-Notes had to say, “The idea of this album came from a vision God gave me. I saw people caught up in the flashy life style, blinded by those flashy lights the world uses to get our attention on the day to day, especially down here in Miami. You know the money, the club scene; the dope rides with the shiny rims. All that stuff that don’t matter. So I wanted to talk about it. I wanna let people know it’s time to put on our hater blockers and block out all the stuff the world throws at us, so we can focus on Christ. I also wanted people who don’t know Christ to see that all the stuff they are chasing don’t matter. What matters is our relationship with Christ. For all my believers out there-put your stunner shades on, block the bright lights and keep your eyes on Christ. To my fam in the Magic City- we gonna keep being that light and point our city in the right direction.” ••• +ugbrecords.com + twitter.com/gnotesmusic + myspace.com/gnotesmusic
S.O.U.L | Pg39
O
ver a decade ago two foster parents named Hip-Hop and R&B claimed parental rights to a new sound. First made popular by secular artists such as D’Angelo, Eric Badu and the once Philadelphia Roots Crew’s background sensation Jill Scott, this infant sound began to form an identity of its own and was given the name Neo-Soul. Now a teenager, the Neo-Soul sound is stronger than ever and Christian vocalist Lisa McClendon has molded it into her weapon of choice. Now ready to go the distance McClendon speaks on her early calling, the nickname Boss Lady, and the powerful punch of her testimony. A native of the Sunshine State, McClendon grew up in the quaint city of Palakta, FL located 60 miles south of Jacksonville. It was in Palakta that McClendon would nurture her voice and receive a prophetic word mapping her future during the season she accepted Jesus Christ as her personal savior. “It was spoken over me at age 15,” said McClendon slowly nodding her head in reflection. As she continued to speak of the prophecy, she also mentioned that the word given to her, would not only predict her success as a vocalist, but also the trials that would follow the success. “He told someone to write it down. He told me about the wolves,” said McClendon, but “he did say there would be a light at the end of the tunnel.” McClendon, who still has the original prophecy written down, believes that her childhood also revealed her inevitable path. “I was told I have an old spirit. I grew up listening to a lot of Jazz and I watched a lot of black and white musical classics.” Lisa even recalled her mother’s concern about her preference to watch old movies rather than play outside. “I can remember having the covers over my head as I lay at the foot of the bed watching Dorothy Dandridge and Harry Belafonte in (the musical) Carmen Jones,” said McClendon. Now with a discography to rival veterans in the business, Lisa McClendon describes her sound, which drifts beyond the classics of her childhood. “It’s Soul with a twist of Jazz and a hinge of Hip-Hop,” said McClendon after pausing to collect her thoughts. It’s also that same blend of style and groove that speaks to her latest solo CD “Reality” which debuted on Billboard’s Top 20. Reality also follows the success of her 2009 collaborative project Gumbo Red, which includes McClendon,
S.O.U.L | Pg40
Canton Jones, Ramona Jones, and Mr. Del. The Gumbo Red project is the fusion of Jazz, Neo-Soul, Gospel and Hip-Hop. But it is ultimately the Neo-Soul sound that uniquely sets Lisa McClendon apart from other female gospel singers. With her latest video in rotation on the Gospel Network, “PAUSE” has quickly become a fan favorite. In the video McClendon brings an authentic look to her sound by fantasizing with the idea of putting the hustle and bustle of life on pause to escape into the serenity of the Holy Spirit. While in Tampa performing at Crossover, she also explained a guest appearance in her video. “That’s my husband in the video acting like he’s washing clothes,” she said. Lisa would then spend another few minutes discussing the blessing she has in her husband, Maurice Brailsford, who she calls Boss Man. However, there is more to the story of who is Boss. “Everyone use to call me Boss Lady. He (Brailsford) told me that the reason they called me Boss Lady is because I didn’t have a man in my life to be the Boss so I can be a lady,” said McClendon. Now with Boss Man in her corner McClendon can focus on her craft. “She had a lot on her. Lisa has always been the bread winner,” said Boss Man. Not only is Boss Man her Husband, but he is also her manager under their company Blue Soul Entertainment. “I looked at her and at how much she has been burned and how much she has lost,” said Boss Man. “I want to protect her and stand up for her.” Prior to Boss Man, Lisa McClendon released three CDs including My Diary, Your Life in 2002, Soul Music in 2003 and Live from the House of Blues in 2006. “I was naïve. I didn’t know about the business back then. People were living off the money that was mine,” said McClendon.
“
I have
over come sexual
molestation, mental & physical
”
abuse...
Keeping in perspective that her music is her ministry, McClendon does not speak of past financial improprieties with anger or bitterness. She quickly directs all attention back to her opportunities to reach women. “I have over come sexual molestation, mental and physical abuse. I have survived divorced parents as well as my own divorce,” she said. Lisa took the time to connect and build with a group of ladies at Crossover the night before the three Sunday services. She sees it as a blessing to share her life with other women who may be experiencing similar pain or attacks from the enemy. “…It made me the woman I am today and I am much stronger today then I was yesterday. When I speak to other women I feel like I am busting the devil in the face with my testimony.” It is her music and testimony that moved Crossover members and visitors to break a record in CD sales following her singing at the three services. “Our people really responded to her ministry as she sold a grip of CDs!” said Pastor Tommy of Crossover. Lisa shared, “I make it a point to report every sale.” With an eagerness to please God and share her gift as was once prophesied when she was 15-years-old, McClendon is ready to travel to wherever her voice takes her. Before each performance McClendon is given a pep talk by Boss Man as if a championship is on the line. Perhaps the two have watched one too many reruns of McClendon’s favorite movie Rocky. Regardless of the inspiration, when the high hat hits and the snares began to snap, Lisa McClendon will be in the center of the ring armed with the Reality of Christ in her life, the love a Man who has her back and a testimony that has the devil ducking and dodging for cover.
Stay in the ring with Lisa: www.lisamcclendon.com
Artist: Lisa McClendon Album: Reality Tracks: 13 Label: Blu Soul Entertainment Release Date: April 28, 2009 Availability: Nationwide
S.O.U.L | Pg41
Marlin Weekend 2009 The official Caribbean Gospel Music Awards Story by Lucy Kyllonen
M
show has been going on for over a decade. These artists represented the islands that many Americans and Europeans enjoy and visit on vacation for their crystal blue waters and beautiful destination spots. Islands such as Jamaica, Trinidad, Dominica, Tortola, Aruba, St. Marten, Bermuda
any are not aware there is a thriving Christ-
and the list goes on.
centered Caribbean music scene that includes Calypso, Reggae, Soca, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Junkanoo, Rake & Scrape,
The weekend kicked off on Thursday Night with The Mar-
etc. Have you even heard of these categories in a music
lin Summit held at Bahamas Harvest Church with Pastor
awards show? Nonetheless, the Marlin Awards hosted in
Mario Moxey. This is a very progressive church for the Ba-
Nassau, Bahamas presented a formal and amazing awards
hamas complete with a cafĂŠ in the lobby and a great set
ceremony that showcased and honored many different tal-
on the stage. They are setting the new standard for inno-
ented artists not only from the Bahamas, but other countries
vative ministry on the island as they are seeing explosive
throughout the Caribbean. This well-established awards
growth. The summit featured worship, several artists and a
S.O.U.L | Pg44
message geared specifically to the artists by my husband
one was dressed formal and tickets were $25 to $30 per
(Urban D.). He was my ticket to this great weekend :)
person. As you can see from the pictures, people were looking sharp! One of the highlights of the evening was a
Workshops for artists and industry people were held on
duo hip-hop and opera set by Manifest & JoAnn Callender.
Friday afternoon at the Diplomat Center. Jamie from the
Manifest expressing his lyrics with a rough manly voice
Tempo network (The Caribbean’s hottest video channel)
and JoAnn’s sophisticated and feminine opera voice in
shared about the importance and need of quality music vid-
the background. The combination made you feel you were
eos. Eric Kample from Cross Movement Records shared
watching a Broadway show. Everyone in the crowd of all
with artists about the details of the business side. He gave
ages was totally engaged.
out some very helpful resources. Urban D. shared about music licensing, publishing and having realistic expecta-
The Marlin weekend has been a dream birthed by Kevin
tions. Friday evening sparked off the Marlin Fest with close
Harris, CEO and founder of Harris Communications. You
to 2,000 people gathering at the Diplomat Center with per-
can also catch Kevin aka Minister K hosting a daily radio
formances from artists like Prodigal Son (Jamaica), Papa
show on weekday mornings on Bahamas very own Joy Fm.
Das (Tortola), Monty G (Bahamas), and many many more.
I love their format! They play Hip-Hop, R&B, Gospel, and
The night was full of high energy and praise and worship
Reggae all day long. I frequently log onto their website and
in many different formats and didn’t end until around mid-
listen at work. A big shout out goes to the Marlin’s execu-
night. Saturday was our day to really chill and enjoy the
tive board and committee for putting this event together.
island and hook up with some friends. Shout outs to pastor
Many months of planning and preparation as well as money
Gadville and his wife – that was some good Bahamian food!
went into making this event possible. Their hospitality and excellent work surpassed all expectations. It has opened
The Marlin Awards was held on Sunday at the Diplomat
our eyes at S.O.U.LMAG to this thriving Christian Carib-
Center at Bahamas Faith Ministry, pastored by author and
bean music scene that you’ll be getting exposed to more in
speaker, Dr. Myles Munroe.
upcoming issues.
The Marlin Awards did not
hold back. It was the climax of the weekend. I was very impressed with an incredible stage set up with intelligent
To learn more about the Marlin Awards check out:
lighting, booming music and very enthusiastic people that
www.marlinawards.com
set the tone for a memorable night for the artists as well
www.myspace.com/marlinawards
as those in attendance. This was a classy night as every-
S.O.U.L | Pg45
G
ary Niegel is a Tampa artist from Crossover Church that wears many hats in ministry. Over the years he’s been a mentor, a teacher, an artist and now he even runs a basketball ministry. He’s built a legacy of young emcees at Crossover that are passionate for Christ and dripping with diverse talent. Recently he’s been pouring a lot of energy into his own music. We caught up with him to see what’s poppin’.
S.O.U.L: What does G-86 stand for? G-86: Well, the G stands for my name Gary, and the number 86 represents the
phrase “eighty-six”, the term used to describe anything that’s been cut or cancelled. So, anything not representing God, I got to “eighty-six” that.
S.O.U.L: How long have you been using your gift for God? G-86: Lets see… I built a relationship with Christ in the summer of 1998 and by
like September/October, I recorded a couple of songs and really began to seek God for the direction I should go with my music. I’ve been strivin’ to glorify Him ever since.
S.O.U.L: What is the message behind your music? G-86: The glorious gospel of Jesus Christ. I want the world to know that true salvation is found in Christ, and in Christ alone. Also, encouraging those that are the church to be unashamed to proclaim the gospel to the masses.
S.O.U.L: What is the name of the project you are currently working on? G-86: I’m actually working on finishing two projects at this time. One is a free project entitled “ Not About Me”, and the other is a full-length album called “Tears Of A Man, Blood Of A King”.
S.O.U.L: If you could say a few words to your listeners, what would you say? G-86: Time is short! Honor God with your life. Obedience is better than sacrifice.
Only what we do for God will last.
S.O.U.L: As you’ve mentored a lot of emcees over the years, what advice would you give to up and coming Christian artists?
G-86: Be a Christian first. Don’t be an artist and then a Christian, that’s back-
wards. Stay humble and always keep God lifted up. Place your agenda on the shelf. I think any Christian artist should ask the question “what am I in this for?” If it’s not to minister and win people to Christ then I think cats should rethink the decision to be a Christian artist.
To listen to unreleased tracks and get some more info on G-86 go to:
myspace.com/eightysixmuzik
Interviewed by Godsent S.O.U.L | Pg46
S.O.U.L | Pg48
By: G-86 Sean Slaughter was born in Queens, NY. He is the son of famous gospel singer Alvin Slaughter. Growing up in a Christian household was never easy for Sean. At a young age he found himself listening to and being influenced by Hip-Hop artists like KRS-One, Big Daddy Kane, and Slick Rick. He often attended The Brooklyn Tabernacle for church service, but it never really appealed to him. He recalls his father not being a strong influence in His life, due to his father’s involvement with the church, and working multiple jobs to provide for the family. Isn’t it ironic that a man of God can be busy making it happen for others and his own children feel lacking? Around the age of 15, Sean and his family moved from Queens, to upstate NY. During his sophomore year of high school, his father began full time ministry. His father and mother would spend 200-225 days out of the year traveling, which in turn left Sean alone on the weekends. He then began to throw parties experimenting with drugs and slowly being swayed by negative influences. In high school Sean was labeled as an all-star athlete, recognized as one of NY’s top wide receivers in football. However, he still found himself gravitating towards criminal activity. During his junior year he and one of his partners broke into a catholic school to steal computer equipment. They began to sell the stolen equipment as well as take peoples lunch money and break into student lockers.
“
influenced by Hip-Hop artists like KRS-One, Big Daddy Kane, & Slick Rick.
Sean was later arrested for grand theft, but the principal of the catholic school did not press charges and the robbery resulted in Sean serving 1000 hours of community service and removal from the basketball team. Through all the bad choices Sean would make, he still managed to land a scholarship to play football in Rhode Island. It wasn’t until his start of college in 1994 that Sean began to really wild out. In Sean’s freshman year of college he began to experiment with more potentially harmful drugs and dove deep into the party scene for nearly two years. Soon Sean’s wild college lifestyle would sadly enough cause him to fail out of URI, losing his scholarship to play football. He then moved back to Queens, and later enrolled into a recording school in Manhattan. Always having a desire to rap and make beats, Sean found himself a part of a rap/production team that produced beats for big name secular rap groups.
During this time he recalls several instances that brought him to the realization that as much as he was running from God he seemed to bump right back into Him. The first was when he was in the studio ready to make a beat, and there was a Bible on the mixing console. One of the guys in the studio picks up the Bible and tells another guy to read from it. The second time was where Sean had listened to a cd from a secular artist named Killah Priest, who was not a Christian but talked about God in some of his music. The third instance was where Sean was again scheduled to go into the studio to drop beats. He was sitting in the TV room watching the discovery channel and the program showed Muslims praying 5 times a day and how serious they were about there religion. One of the guys in the studio with him came into the TV room smoking a blunt. He then tells Sean that the guys on TV were real about their religion and the guys who Sean was around were fake. He shared that they weren’t really serious about living the life style of religion that they portrayed. It was these three instances that really made Sean think about God again, because he wanted nothing to do with church, God, or spirituality. Finally there came a time in Sean’s life where he became tired of running. After a big argument with one of the guys he was producing with, he returned to his apartment and began to reflect on his life. After several car accidents and an instance where someone pulled a gun on him and the bullets fell out of the gun, it caused him to fall back into deep thought. He was so confused. He knew right from wrong, but just didn’t know who he was. Soon after, Sean quit the group Concrete Angels. He then began receiving multiple death threats and threatening phone calls. But, he had a certain peace about the situation. God was truly drawing Sean to Him. After leaving all the so called worldly music accomplishments behind, Sean gave his life to Christ and began an incredible journey into discovering who he truly is. Since Sean’s conversion, he has truly strived to represent God whole heartedly. Completely dedicated to the cause of Christ, Sean continues to reach out to troubled teens by showing them the love of God and by disciplining them through the word of God and leading by example. Sean now uses his God given talent to rap, spreading the gospel to the masses. He now ministers and performs in over 100 concerts a year. He has also won several holy hip-hop awards as well as shared the stage with big name gospel artists. Sean now uses rap music to speak life and not death.••• To check out more about Sean and his Street Story check out
+ slaughtermusic.com
Artist: Sean Slaughter Album: Man On Fire Tracks: 18 Label: Slaughter Music Release Date: October 28, 2008 Availability: Nationwide
S.O.U.L | Pg49
by: Lily Lorenzo
Many grow up with hip-hop music as a way of everyday life.
forward 9 years later from the original birth of her vision in
They speak, dress and live a certain lifestyle that is a di-
1999 and DJ Lady Grace finds herself as a DJ at outreach
rect reflection of their surrounding culture. However, there
concerts, parties and touring the regions that are impacted
are those that grow up in traditional suburban homes that
most by urban hip-hop culture. Through speaking engage-
still find themselves with the same heartbeat for the music
ments and ministry opportunities she continues to educate
and the culture despite the different zip codes. In 1999 DJ
those about Hip-Hop and reach out to those effected by
Lady grace was birthed with a passion to reach a culture
the negative aspects of the culture. Although many may
unfamiliar to her, growing up in a traditional Christian home
make excuses or feel inadequate about reaching the hip-
Lady Grace received a healthy upbringing filled with tradi-
hop culture for Christ, DJ Lady Grace is a prime example of
tional Gospel music and godly morals. With the understand-
Paul’s message in Corinthians. 9:22-23 “…I have become
ing of Christ and his mercy, Lady Grace realized a culture
all things to all men so that by all possible means I might
of people that were considered to be less reachable. She
save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel that I may
developed a burning passion to help promote ministries that
share in its blessings.”
would reach youth and young adults with the truth of Christ through pure ministry and non-compromising music.
In 2009 DJ Lady Grace finds herself on the grind to make a difference and move forward with her promotions company.
After completing her BA from the College of Business at
I asked her a few questions to narrow in on the great work
Northeastern University her passion would soon be evident
God is using her to accomplish.
as she launched Conquest Entertainment, a promotional ministry that is dedicated to the great commandment. Al-
though DJ Lady Grace was moving in the fast direction of reaching many people, her lack of experience and unfamil-
What are some major events happening within your ministry:
iarity with the Hip-Hop Culture continued to be a personal
• I’m now producing and promoting tours in my region. Lisa
struggle for her potential. Through prayer she was able to
McClendon’s New England Tour is the first tour I’m doing
gain the confidence needed to learn and seek training on
as a promoter. She will be performing in Rhode Island and
the things she wanted to accomplish. She began taking DJ
Boston. The next tour I’ll be doing in Rhode Island and Bos-
Classes, learned about radio and music, began hosting a
ton will be with Mark J and Bobby Bishop. It’s called the
Hip-Hop Radio show and moved forward on her journey to
Everyday Tour.
reach a culture of people unfamiliar to her upbringing. Fast S.O.U.L | Pg50
• Working with The Underground 101 ministry.
fied to do something doesn’t affect me too much. I know
• As a board member of the One Accord DJ Alliance (an al-
my purpose and what I’ve been called to do, and with God
liance of deejays and radio announcers across the country
backing and empowering me, I know I can get the job done
to promote Christian artists and to build with one another),
and finish my race.
we’re working on the first International Gospel DJ Confer-
ence, which will be held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel at La-
Where do you see God taking you within the next year and what are some of your ultimate goals?
Guardia Airport in New York, September 21 - 22. For more info, please go to the Higher Ground Record Pool website.
• Over the next year, I just want to focus on building and • Dr. Emmett Price, who is the Chairman of African Ameri-
promoting the hip-hop ministry here in Rhode Island, and
can Studies at Northeastern University asked me to write a
bringing back the Virtuous Mixshow to internet radio and as
chapter in his new book called: The Black Church, Hip-Hop
a Podcast. I would also like to drop a mixtape over the next
Culture and The Dilemma of Generational Divide. My chap-
year, but that’s hard to do with having so many other obliga-
ter in the book focuses mainly on rebutting a lot of the argu-
tions. One of my biggest ultimate goals is to settle down (if
ments that have been made against Christian hip-hop using
that’s possible), get married, and start a family. I’m content
scripture and real life occurrences and testimonies. I put a
with being single, but I’ve always hoped to have a family of
lot of time into researching and writing this, and I know it’s
my own. •••
going to be a valuable resource for people to use to explain and validate Christian hip-hop.
What if any have been the struggles of being in the music ministry as a female:
Stay connected with DJ Lady Grace:
+ djladygrace.com + myspace.com/djladygrace
• I find that you have to work harder to prove yourself to other people that you know what you’re doing, especially as a female deejay. My confidence to do what I do comes from knowing that God called and equipped me with all the talent and resources I need to get the job done. So, a person’s opinion of whether they think I’m able or qualiS.O.U.L | Pg51
You think you know Braille Brizzy but you have no idea! This emcee has been putting out music since he was 14 years old. He has 5 solo albums under his belt, has toured with the Godfather of Soul (James Brown), and was also featured in the June 2008 issue of The Source magazine. What you don’t know is that Braille is an artist that commands 2 lanes. Some look at him as an underground lyricist on the rise who refuses to conform to the ways of the secular market. Others look at him as one of the illest emcees in Christian Hip-Hop who has broken the barrier and stigmatism to show that Christian artists can be accepted by mainstream supporters. So what’s the real deal? I guess we gotta ask the man himself. S.O.U.LMag hooked up with Braille after his “CloudNineteen” tour to ask him some questions about The IV Edition, the CloudNineteen project and James Brown! This is the life and times of Braille Brizzy!
S.O.U.L:
Thank you Braille for taking this time to speak
with us. When I was asked to do this interview with you it was a definite ‘yes’ since I’m a huge fan of your music. I hope these questions will shed some light and give our readers a deeper understanding of who you are. So let’s start! For the people who don’t know Braille, describe the music you do and if you would classify it as “Christian HipHop” or “Secular Hip-Hop?”
BRAILLE:
My identity as a person is first and foremost
founded as a follower of Christ. If there was no fruit coming from my music career then I would quit tomorrow. I have no problem having the word “Christian” attached to everything I do, but sometimes I do think we get carried away with labels. I think it’s common knowledge that I’m a Christian artist. I’ve never tried to hide it and I’ve never ran away from it. In almost every review or interview it gets mentioned and brought up. I have no problem with it because it’s truly the best description of who I am. I play a lot of roles, but if I could only represent one thing, it would be Christ. Being a Christian effects everything I do; from music, to marriage, to business, to fatherhood and friendship. I wouldn’t be the same man if it wasn’t for Christ.
S.O.U.L:
That’s what’s up man! So being in the lane
that you are in, do you ever catch flack from Christian artists that say “he’s not representing God enough in his music” or from secular artists that say “he talks about God to much in his music?” How do you deal with both of those extremes?
BRAILLE:
that I spoke about. I didn’t make it up or fabricate it - and regardless of what our “opinions” of truth are, eventually truth will be proven by God and be un-refutable.
S.O.U.L:
I definitely understand where you’re coming
from on that. Now let’s talk about your music. You just recently dropped (in my eyes) another classic project The IV Edition. On this album you have a song called “Blessed Man.” I want you to elaborate for the people what Braille’s
“
definition of being blessed is?
I’ve definitely gotten flack for being “too Christian” and I’ve also gotten flack for being “not Christian enough BRAILLE:
”
Man - for me, understanding that God’s word
is true and building my faith to believe has really helped
me realize how blessed I am. There are gifts that God has already offered us that we just haven’t grasped yet. We are praying for $100.00 dollars when he’s already given us so much more to tap into. If the “Joy of the Lord” is our strength. If we got the “peace that surpasses all understanding.” If we got eternal life, life and life more abundant - then we should be able to look at all that and say “I’m Blessed.” Ultimately - being close with God is a higher
level of success then any material items we can hold with our hands. So in the pursuit of stuff, if I ever feel like I’m
I’ve always held onto the scripture that says
“Meditate on those things which are praiseworthy.” I try not to get too caught up in getting approval from man. I’ve definitely gotten flack for being “too Christian” and I’ve also gotten flack for being “not Christian enough” - but to tell you the truth, the percentage of flack is very small compared to the level of encouragement that I’m blessed with. I strive to live my life beyond reproach - so the hope is that the only thing someone could beef with is my approach. But I love just being honest with myself and striving to be who God created me to be. Individuality is never an excuse for sin - but understanding that there are different PARTS to the Body of Christ is a powerful lesson to learn. I don’t really take it personal when unbelievers have a problem with my faith because it’s not a personal issue. I speak about an absolute truth. If that truth makes you angry, convicted or upset - your beef isn’t really with me, it’s with the truth
drifting from God...then the STUFF ain’t worth it. The position isn’t worth it. If my blessings glorify myself and not God then those “blessings” might just be distractions.
S.O.U.L:
That is an excellent point! That song really
inspires us to really be thankful for the things that really matter…our relationship with Christ. Now I’m still chewing on “The IV Edition” and you bring another dish out of nowhere it seems. LOL! Tell us about the CloudNineteen album. How did that come about and what is your goal for this album?
BRAILLE:
It’s a new era. Artists don’t really have the
luxury of putting out albums once every three years. I’m motivated to drop at-least one record per year, and honestly, two per year if possible. I’m definitely a quality over quantity type of guy - but I’m learning and growing every
S.O.U.L | Pg55
day. When I’m no longer in a place of stretching myself as a man - I won’t have much more to say as an artist. But I feel like
S.O.U.L:
God is still revealing new things to me, giving me more bold-
You did 27 shows in 29 days. Wow! Let us in on some of the
ness, giving me more compassion - and I want to capture all that
negative things that may have happened that made you want to
step by step. CloudNineteen is a collaboration record with me
quit at times and share some of the positive things that helped
doing all the rhymes and S1 doing all the beats. I first worked
you keep going?
Ok I like how you put that. Now tell us about the tour.
with S1 on the song “Blessed Man” and we felt like we had a great chemistry. The record came together in like 5 months and
BRAILLE:
God gave me a vision to go where young people are and give
most people think of tours they think of big buses with drivers,
away the record for free. The goal is to give out 30,000 copies
booking agents, tour managers and all that. For me, I’m usu-
“
I’ve always toured in an unconventional way. When
before the end of the year. We’ve already given out 5,000 cop-
ally wearing all those hats myself. I own a van, so I use that
ies, so now we are raising money to print the next batch.
as the tour vehicle. I do all the booking, all the driving, all the
Yeah, I did 20 shows with James Brown before he passed away... S.O.U.L:
”
routing and so forth. For this particular tour the main negative side was just my doubt and fear going into it. The night before the tour started I couldn’t sleep because I was thinking about all the “what ifs.” What if we don’t have a place to stay one night? What if we can’t afford a hotel? What if nobody shows up to the concerts? What if this isn’t what I’m supposed to be doing?
Yo, that’s a great vision and the people will definitely
But God ended up moving in so many ways. We only slept in
be blessed by the CD. Now I just want to touch back on your
hotels 3 nights during the whole tour. Every night someone lo-
forth album The IV Edition for a second. I know that there is a
cal was putting us up. Some nights we didn’t know where we
deeper meaning to the Roman numeral “IV.” Can you explain
were sleeping until after the show was over. Almost every show
some of the significances of the “IV?”
had over 100 people in attendance. The thing with me is I have no problem stepping out in faith. It’s exciting for me. In most
BRAILLE::
The insert of the CD breaks down the four different
cases my doubt is regarding things like “Is this really where God
meanings. The IV acts as the Roman number (forth record), an
has me or did I just force this to happen?” Or “Will my family be
acronym (international vision) and a metaphor (putting medicine
taken care of while I’m away?” Or “Will the people touring with
into the veins of society, healing for social illnesses). The final
me be okay with the working conditions?” God showed up in
meaning prescribes Christ as “The Cure” for mans sin nature.
the situation and it was awesome. My family was taken care of,
We are all infected with sin and the Bible says “the wages of sin
my relationship with my wife and daughter stayed strong, and
is death.” So we are infected with a disease that leads to death
God used me in ministry and confirmed that He wanted me out
and the Bible says that Jesus is “The Cure.”
on the road.
S.O.U.L:
S.O.U.L:
Yeah, I definitely like how you broke that down. Now
Wow! That definitely inspires me to step out on faith
who came up with the title for the CloudNineteen project? You
with some things I’ve been battling with. Praise God for His
or S1? Is there also a meaning or concept behind that title?
provision! So now I know that you just recently lost your dad (I send my condolences to you). I share that pain as well. I
BRAILLE:
I was playing around with some ideas and came
recently lost mine too. Braille, what I want to know is what type
up with that title. The meaning is deep but it’s pretty simple to
of relationship did you have with him? Was he a supporter of
explain. It’s really an extension of the “Blessed Man” concept.
your music? Tell us about that.
A lot of people spend their life chasing after highs…Cloud 9s.
S.O.U.L | Pg56
Most of these highs we chase after are for our own glory and
BRAILLE:
our own pleasure. I’ve learned that submitting my dreams and
raised in a Christian home - so I never really was blessed with
my desires to God puts me in a position to reach higher then
a deep spiritual bond with my father. But I definitely did my
Cloud 9. Higher then a temporary high - and using my gifts for
best to respect and honor him. He was a huge supporter of my
God’s glory, using my dreams for God’s glory and really just be-
music. His apartment was like a “Braille” museum. Haha. He
ing close to God is the highest place. So the 19 just represents
had tour posters, CD’s and flyers in frames hanging on his wall.
a place higher then 9.
My father never was a rich man, but he loved to cook and he
I had a great relationship with my father. I wasn’t
always encouraged me to do what I love. It was a good foundation for me as a believer because I never had pressure on me to try and be a successful businessman. When I was doing free shows and sleeping on floors my parents were still supportive of what I was doing.
S.O.U.L:
It’s always a good thing to have your parents support. What a blessing
man. The “Braille” museum…that’s hot! Now a lot of people don’t know this about you but you toured with what some would call “The hardest working man in show biz”…James Brown! (May he rest in peace). How did that come about? Explain that experience with us.
BRAILLE:
Yeah, I did 20 shows with James Brown before he passed away. It
was an AMAZING experience. I honestly know that God opened that door for me. I could never open it for myself - I wasn’t even seeking it out. His management (Intrigue Management Group) discovered me on Purevolume.com. We stayed in touch and they flew me out to New York to perform in their office. They decided to bring me on as Mr. Brown’s opening act and I toured all over the U.S. and Europe with him. I truly believe that God opened that door to prepare me for what He wanted to do next in my life. I was a pretty insecure guy growing up, so it’s easy for me to give God the glory. He has opened the doors, provided the increase and trained me up so that I could be effective in the territory that He has me in.
S.O.U.L:
Exactly brother! It’s wonderful that you recognize that. Keep that heart
and He’ll continue to open up those doors for you. So what’s up with the “CloudNineteen” tour? Is it over with? What’s the next move for Braille Brizzy? What can we look forward to from you in the future?
BRAILLE:
That was just the first leg of the tour. Since I’m a family man, I need
to break my tours up into sections. I’ve only given away 5,000 CD’s so far and the goal is to give away 30,000. I’m determined to see this vision through so I’m just staying faithful where God has me for right now. I don’t try to fabricate my future because I know God’s ways and plans are better then my own. When I’m not on the road I will be recording songs for my next Syntax Records release titled “Audibly Enhanced Dreams”. We hope to release that record in the fall of 2009 to follow up CloudNineteen.
“The IV” & “Cloud Nineteen” are available nationwide.
S.O.U.L:
Syntax Records
Ok we’ll definitely be looking forward to that project as
well. Yo, thank you so much for taking the time to answer these questions. Tell the people how they can get a hold of you and support your music and the CloudNineteen project?
BRAILLE:
syntaxrecords.com
HipHop is Music
hiphopismusic.cpm
I’m real easy to get in touch with.
braillehiphop@hotmail.com www.braillehiphop.com www.itsnineteen.com Feel free to hit me up directly for bookings, comments or questions. ••• S.O.U.L | Pg57
TV
personalities and professional athletes have a few things in common. Both are high profile performers and their God given talent coupled with their commitment to their craft can catapult them into the spotlight. Like athletes, TV personalities have thousands of fans tuning in to their success during what is called the regular season. It is safe to say that both athletes and actors are searching for uninterrupted seasons of being at the top of their game. It’s called a streak, and every high profile personality wants it. After all, with every winning season, whether it is a championship or an Emmy Award, there is money and adoring fans cheering for more success and more victories. Unfortunately, when you are standing outside of a local liquor store in Hollywood at night with a forty-ounce and a shattered heart, no one is cheering, even if you are a TV star. There is no audience for this play or a last minute rewrite that relieves the main character of his temptations. It’s not a game or a television drama, it is real life and a different type of streak is on the line. Your name is Dearon Thomas. The world knows you as Nurse Malik Mcgraf after 12 consecutive seasons on ER, and it has been more than 5800 days since your last drink of alcohol. For 16 years you have been alcohol-free and with the sudden disappointment of life drying out your dreams, a quenching sip of euphoria is beyond tempting. That was over two years ago. While sitting outside of a local Hollywood coffee shop, enjoying his mid-morning shot of caffeine (black with no cream and no sugar), Thomas shared his ups, his downs, his sobriety, and a time when he almost threw it all away. In about an hour Thomas would prove he was like his coffee, strong and with no additives. “I knew about overflow,” Thomas explained as he alluded to scripture from time to time putting his life experiences and his faith into perspective. “I am not a bragger, but I had everything…the beautiful wife, the job... It was nothing to call up a friend and say, ‘lets roll, I’ve got tickets to a Laker’s game,’” he said. Though success did not happen overnight Thomas, who has gone by the name Deezer D since his early days of rapping on the local scene has had something most actors cannot claim - steady work. After getting an agent in the early 90s Deezer received his first meaningful appearance in Cool As Ice (1991), followed by a 1992 episode of Angel Street and eventually the 1993 urban Hip-Hop feature CB4, starring Chris Rock. By 1994, he would be casted for one episode of ER. 12 seasons later Nurse Malik McGraf has made Deezer D a familiar face and name in Hollywood and with ER fans around the world.
S.O.U.L | Pg60
Success and the celebrity life is an extreme contrast to Deezer D’s experiences growing up in South Central LA. Born in 1965 during a time when gas cost $0.31 and the average cost of a car was $2,600, Deezer has watched himself and the world around him change. It was also a time when few African Americans were portrayed in a favorable light through the Hollywood lens. Meeting the stereotypical expectations of a black male, Deezer D embraced the streets and the culture that accompanied the streets. Reluctant to give credibility or celebrate his past, D suppressed details of his youth, his exposure to violence and his decision to drink and smoke weed. “Real people don’t talk – They know. We don’t have to talk or brag about what we have seen or done,” said Deezer D. Lowering his voice as he reflected, “I have been right there in my yard as a friend of mine just started sticking (stabbing) a dude cuz of something he said.” It was in this environment that Deezer D embraced the streets, began smoking weed, and eventually found himself bound by alcohol. Attempting to avoid more probing questions regarding childhood violence and delinquent behavior, he shared his frustration with having to revisit the past in all of his interviews. “It’s boring to me to talk about the past at this point,” said Deezer D. His tone suggested that he was ready to discuss other aspects of his life. These other aspects would reveal Deezer D’s true passion about using music and Hip-Hop to authenticate a real Christian standard.
“
I don’t tell you when I’m going through it, I tell you when I come out...
”
It has been over 8 years since his debut CD Livin It Up In A Down World, and Deezer D’s lyrical flow has metamorphosed from the alpha male vibrato that was synonymous with west coast rap during the 90’s and early 2000s. Steering clear of the title Christian rapper, Deezer still offers convictions and life lessons that stem from a Christ centered perspective. Now he offers a melodic style that is as much more harmonious as it is thought provoking. However, Deezer D explains that this album was written out of the pain and the struggle that was camouflaged by his success. “This CD was for me,” he said, referring to the 2008, third quarter release “Delayed But Not Denied”. “Tracks 1-5 is what happened (to me)”, he added. Lyrically Deezer D takes the listener on a journey exposing the downside of marriage as he reveals the agony of divorce and being separated from his new born son. Feeling hopeless, the experience almost turned Deezer D back to alcohol. “My ex-wife decided it (marriage) was not working for her. My son was only four months old,” he said. “I didn’t believe in divorce, especially after all the beautiful times we had to-
gether.” Deezer D married make-up artist Samantha Enson on November 14, 2004. After their son Easton Troy was born, Samantha decided she did not want to be married. “She wanted out,” said Deezer, emphasizing that it was her decision, not his. Often times this is the point where rappers or other entertainers use their platform to get even with their spouse. However, in first class fashion Deezer D, in his own words, “chose to keep it positive.” He continued to explain, “She is the mother of my son, just because we have a disagreement (about the relationship) doesn’t mean I have to stay there and stay angry. When asked what contributed to his attitude toward his ex-wife, he attributed much of his perspective toward watching other high-profile couples make positive decisions. He shared, “Like Will (Smith) and Jada (Pinkett Smith), I saw how Will kept it positive with his ex-wife and heard Jada on Oprah sharing how they were all one family including Will’s ex-wife.” Deezer D did admit that issues like child support can make it tough. “They based my child support on an ER season when I had almost 20 episodes. The next season I dropped to only five.” With ER’s final season behind him Deezer is focusing on his writing and has three scripts he is currently shopping around. Like his music, Deezer is hoping that his life experience can offer viewers something real. “I want people to see me as real. I want them to feel me.” Even with the release of this latest album Deezer is hoping to have the same appeal as another hip-hop artist that has made his way to the top of the Christian Hip-Hop scene. “Lecrae is doing it big. He is hot. People are feeling what he is putting out,” Deezer said. Now on the other side of a trying time, Deezer D believes that now is the time to open up. “Writing these scripts saved my life,” he said. To a certain extent some of Deezer D’s work reflects his struggles and victories as does his music. “I don’t tell you when I’m going through, I tell you when I come out of it.” Now that Deezer D has overcome the opportunities that are now presenting themselves prove that he and his success was just Delayed But Not Denied. •••
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W
hat started off as a normal guy who loved music and was known to have any and every bit of music that was out, turned into a ministry with an untamable force to reach those influenced in the culture. DJ D-Lite reps the “3rd Coast” city of Austin, Texas and reps it well indeed! He graduated from the University of Texas in Austin back in ’93 with his degree in Communications. Since then, God just been taking him through life’s journey. Got married…3 daughters, just pretty much on the grind with life! Right after his first child in ’97 is where he really got his first opportunity to be apart of a ministry in the capacity of DJing. The outreach, “Praise in the Park”, was looking for a DJ and sure enough D-Lite turned out to be the main candidate for the job. It was the outreach’s first event of many (and still running, based out of East Austin) as he volunteered his time being in charge of the entertainment portion. The independent group later formed it as a running organization called PIP Start. Another opportunity had presented itself to him around late 1999 early 2000 as he was given an 8pm-midnight Friday night spot at a local Contemporary Christian station to do a show with a homeboy of his. The show, “Flipside” had huge success within the community. The show ran for about a good 2.5 years before getting the boot! It was all in love though…the station was mostly playing the CCM genre and more and more people were continuously flooding the phone lines requesting Christian Hip-Hop on a more consistent basis… like everyday! Listeners only got a taste of Christian Hip-Hop on Fridays so the station was at a crossroads and felt like they really need to stick to the main format of the station, hence “da boot”. But it doesn’t stop there for D-Lite in the radio biz and in his career as a DJ.
By: DJ Dash In the mist of doing his Internet radio show, “3rd Coast Fiyah” (as heard on dasouth.com), Brinson from Jacksonville (Godchazers Ent.) really encouraged him to put together a mixtape. So after much hesitation there has been a couple of mixtape compilations (I lost count!), lots of standalone projects…then later receiving various awards…2006 Texas Holy Hip Hop Achievement Award Winner for Internet Radio Program of the Year, Texas Holy Hip Hop Achievement Award for 2005 & 2007 DJ of the Year and the 2006 Vanguard of the Year…I would say that D-Lite was pointed in the right direction! D-Lite now serves as the Owner and President of Dasouth’s Internet radio networks. Check it out at www.dasouth.com! Also check out DJ D-Lite’s lastest 3rd Coast Fiyah projects The Heatwave Volume 1 and 2. Both albums feature a bangin’ complication of artists such as D-Maub, Mark J, Oldhead, Jacob Izreal, K-Drama, DJ WadeO, DJ 1 God, Excelsius, Mr. Del, Fedel, Brinson, G. Stylez, Khul Rhema, and much, much and many, many more!! Too much to take in all at once…yeah, it was for me too! Keep up with the ministry of DJ D-Lite’s:
+ djdlite512.com + myspace.com/djdlite
He later got hooked up with another station which broadcasted online. He linked up with DJ I Rock Jesus, who already had an established show. He gave D-Lite an opportunity to be on it. Years later, he got linked up with another internet radio station. Things were moving on and I Rock Jesus eventually lost his Internet radio station and D-Lite didn’t have his own radio show. Then out of the blue, D-Lite gets nominated and wins Texas’ Holy Hip Hop Award for DJ of the Year. D-Lite later hooks up with different Christian Hip-Hop sites such as holyculture.net where he was doing radio for about 4 years and dasouth.com where he is currently head of the radio portion of the site. The re-launch popped off in November 2008 and is still gaining much love and respect with the HHH community and serves as one of the leading resource sites when it comes to the movement.
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written by: Mystery?
Christian Hip-Hop in Australia has evolved and changed over the years and now under the banner of Krosswerdz. It is having a great impact on the Hip-Hop community at large; both secular and to those in the Faith. Around 1988 a handful of B-boys, MCs, graffiti writers and DJ converted to Christianity in the Australian city of Sydney. Most were former members of a street gang known as the Soul Brothers. A few of the team continued in the Faith but some of the crew reverted to their former ways. To differentiate the 2 sides of the group the believers adopted the name “Brethren” and the rest continued using the old name Soul Brothers. After conversion some of the team moved on in their walk and left Hip-Hop behind. A few though continued and in 1989 Brethren became a more performance based team with rhyming and breaking as a means of ministry. New members joined, and the group started to approach the various other Christian Youth Ministries throughout the country. Unfortunately at the time most of the established Ministries viewed Hip-Hop with suspicion and weren’t willing to include Hip-Hop in it’s methods of evangelism. Brethren was still being offered many opportunities in the secular community and so chose to continue to be a part of the underground scene. Subsequently many more doors began to open and Brethren was eventually signed to a secular label. This enabled the crew to tour interstate and meet other like-minded Christian Hip-Hop heads. On the 1st of October 1998 an event was held called In Da Midst. Based on the scripture, “where 2 or more are gathered I am in the midst of them”, it was an event to introduce the various Christian Hip-Hoppers to each other, as many had never met before. A national network was established. The In Da Midst community then connected with a Christian label Mustard Records and released it’s first CD, a compilation album in the year 2000. Featuring US artist Vex Da Vortex of Boogie Monsters they conducted a tour of the east coast of Australia, and also connected with more Hip-Hop heads both secular and Christian. Other releases soon followed and the IDM crew would gather from time to time whenever a member was interstate or for other tours and events. A national tour was also done with Playdough of Ill Harmonics/Deep Space 5 to launch the Brethren album “Beyond Underground”. The In Da Midst website forums attracted many more new members to the community, as did the event and tours, but many in the team felt something more needed to take place.
etc. Not knowing if anything similar already existed the team began to search the internet for ideas. They stumbled across the work of Crossover in Tampa and also the ministry in Harlem that old school legend Kurtis Blow was undertaking. After contacting them, they took a few ideas from their US comrades and also incorporated localized concepts. The name Krosswerdz was chosen and regular events began to take place. Part of the work of Krosswerdz is about educating the Church about the validity of Hip-Hop ministry, it is also about providing something positive for Christian kids who are into the culture. But the main focus is to minister to those who don’t know Christ but love the medium that is Hip-Hop. Krosswerdz has regular services but is also very involved in the secular underground scene. A multitude of events, competitions and workshops have had KW involvement and recently a Krosswerdz record label was launched. The Sydney KW services are staged on the last Saturday of every month (except December) and are run out a community centre in western suburbs, an area notorious for crime, drugs and youth into Hip-Hop. A regular event may include praise type choruses with MC verses, DJing, performances by either beatboxers, MCs, B-boys etc, the Werd (usually an MC, B-boy, DJ etc preaching), an open mic and sometimes some live graffiti. It’s constantly in a state of evolution and change, sometimes there’s a band rockin’ live breaks, sometimes there’s a DJ, sometimes it’s just rocking an old school block party. Others in Australia quite often call Krosswerdz ‘the Hip-Hop Church’, but the team is made up of believers from a variety of Churches. KW Sydney is staged on a Saturday so as to keep people free on Sundays so they can attend their services at their home church. Making it monthly also means that the team can still devote time to be involved in other events in the Christian and secular communities. In essence KW is an outreach/fellowship for those into Hip-Hop culture. The scene down under is strong and people are passionate about their Hip-Hop. Be encouraged that believers in Oz are having a positive effect, and that people’s lives are being changed through the Good News that is in Christ Jesus. •••
+ krosswerdz.com + twitter.com/krosswerdz + myspace.com/krosswerdz
In 2006 some of the Sydney crew started to think about having a regular monthly event. The idea was to do something like a Hip-Hop jam, but for it to be also like a service with preaching
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Behind the Boards with JR & So Hot Productions with Zulu Yengwa For those of us who are old enough to remember the days when Christian hip-hop was below the standard of its secular counterparts, it may be of great encouragement to read of a man, whose standard of excellence will do much to prevent Godly music from ever returning to such an undesirable state. Interviewing JR (one of the outstanding producers in the music industry) has been more of a blessing than a writer’s duty. As an aspiring producer myself, I have gained valuable
JR believes that his biggest strength is his work ethic. He likes to
wisdom from listening to someone who has injected commitment,
compare himself to Da Truth, who has the deserved reputation as the
ability, financial sacrifice, and diligence into his music career.
hardest worker in the industry. Da Truth has been known for working all night until the track sounds right, and JR desires to mimic this work
So what can we learn from JR that will enable us to maximize our
ethic.
God given talents? Born in St. Louis, Missouri in 1979, JR has been
Finally, I asked JR to share his wisdom and the lessons he has
making music since he was 16 years old. He made a decision to
learned from working with some of the best in the music business and
live for Jesus Christ and soon became friends with a young emcee
in summary he shared:
by the name of Flame. It wasn’t long before their mutual desire to serve Jesus started to influence their music. JR considered the fact
Know your strengths and your weaknesses. JR says that he is not
that God had given him the ability to make music at a professional
a hustler or a go-getta, so he hired someone who is… his manager.
standard. Motivated by this fact, as well as the amount of money he
Do not slack on your art. Christians must be careful not to expect
was spending in the studio with Flame, JR made the decision to buy
God to do everything and use that as an excuse for mediocrity. God
a house. JR confirmed to me that the major reason why he bought a
blesses the WORK of our hand.
house (despite having to take a second job to finance it) was so that
Christians should strive to make the best art because we know the
he could build a studio.
creator. God takes great pleasure in our creativity. Read books about your craft and keep learning. Listen to anything
How many of us are willing to make such a commitment? But JR was
that will challenge you. If you don’t listen and grow, you may become
convinced that he could and would make a career out of the talents
closed-minded and you will be left behind.
that God gave him. JR produced Flame’s EP in his new studio. They
If you want to become professional, learn the business. Be a good
then sowed over 300 copies of the EP and performed no more than
steward of what God has given you; ex: return emails and phone calls
15 shows before their seeds harvested. It was a lot harder in those
on time, etc.
days for hip-hop artists to get shows. Hip-Hop was still seen by the
Hard work and diligence are necessary if you want to excel at your
church as an ungodly form of music. However, what the duo lacked
craft. All the artists and producers who are at the top of their game are
in opportunities they made up in diligent hard work. After watching
hard working and diligent.
The Cross Movement perform in Chicago, Flame gave the demo CD
God gave us these skills. You are creating because you were made
to CEO of Cross Movement Records, John Wells (aka Tonic). Tonic
in the image of God.
loved Flame’s demo, and after two months of conversations, JR and
Don’t limit yourself. God has given us the liberty to create - whether
Flame were asked to join Cross Movement on tour.
it‘s gospel music, positive music, or jingles for companies. Follow his guidance and direction. •••
If JR had ignored his heart and listened to one particular deacon of the church, he would not have pursued his passion. The deacon ad-
Get connected with JR and So Hot Productions @
vised JR to leave hip-hop music and focus on a traditional church
sohotproductions.com myspace.com/sohotproductions
instrument. With 30,000 plus copies of his 2nd album already sold, it seems JR’s belief that he could make a profession from production has been justified. The majority of his income comes from this talent, the same talent that he was so willing to invest heavily in. JR is signed to Cross Movement Records as an artist. Apart from CMR he owns a production company (So Hot Productions) and has produced for top artists such as Flame, Lecrae, Cross Movement, Json, Da Truth and many more.
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Mashal Clothing
Our mission is to create clothing that is not only fashionable. Our mission is to create clothing that will ultimately minister to the people who see and wear it. Clothing with a purpose is our movement. We want to help plant the seed of the Gospel and spread the Word of God in a creative way.
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GINOSKO CLOTHING LTD The Fusion of Faith and Fashion
Ginosko is a hand-painted clothing line that uses the visual elements of hip-hop to deliver messages of faith. These original designs are created with vibrant colors and draw the attention of all people, not just those in the hip-hop culture. Every article of our “genesis” line is hand-painted and therefore each one is unique. While many fashions make bold statements about their designers, Ginosko makes bold statements about The Ultimate Designer. The vision for Ginosko sprouted from a desire to reach the Hip-Hop culture with the gospel of Christ. Beyond the aesthetic appeal, every design is inspired by and delivers Biblical messages. The brand name “Ginosko” is actually a conjugated form of the Greek word “gnosis.” In this form, it indicates an intimate knowledge of something or someone. This word perfectly captures the artist’s desire to see people develop an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. Ginosko not only provides a line of clothing that is attractive to both the believer and non-believer, but also a springboard for spiritual discussions. It is our desire that each design draws non-believers to Christ and challenges believers to consistently pursue Christ through the word of God. In doing so, they will be thoroughly equipped to be Christ’s witnesses in their “Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria…” and beyond!
Shirt Description: Lecrae is rocking a “He who has an ear” shirt. Inspired by Luke 8:8 where Jesus ends the parable of the Sower and Seed with this phrase, challenging his audience to do more than just listen to his words but to live them. $30 @ ginoskoclothing.com
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The Christian Hip-Hop movement continues to grow every day. Many of you checking out this magazine are just discovering it. If you’ve been around this genre for a minute, you know it’s come a long way! The artistry and production quality continues to expand. The passion to rep the message of Christ is more evident than ever! There is a lot of incredible talent out there – established and emerging. Space doesn’t allow us to review all that we would like to, but we picked some Hot projects that are definitely worthy of recognition… we suggest you check em’ out and enjoy! 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@crossoverchurch.org<<
D-M.A.U.B.
“Urban Legend”
- One Route Entertainment
onerouteentertainment.com
The first time I heard D-M.A.U.B. was on K-Drama’s “BoomBaptism” on the single “On the high”. I was really impressed with their lyrical chemistry. Those Ohio boys be gettin’ it! I met D in the ATL @ Holy Hip-Hop and I promised him I’d review this project personally. Since then… I’ve worn this CD out! My favorite track “Have my way” expresses his concerns about loving one another, to unity in the community, to us serving God. Another bangin’ track is “Crazy” as it features some innovative production laced with a message about the craziness of this world. D-M.A.U.B. is a refreshing new voice in the movement that is definitely on his way to become legendary! - Brovah Greg
Evangel
“Expository Journey” lampmode.com
- Lamp Mode Recordings
Expository Journey is a recent release from the Lamp Mode camp by your man Evangel from Christ Centric. I first want to apologize for sleeping on this project. This is not even an Album; it’s more like an autobiographical script that should be turned into a movie! You can visually see each song as Evangel paints the picture of a man wanting nothing at all to do with Christianity but from Track 2 “Stranger 2 Stranger” to the final track “The Gospel” you see how God plants the seed, then waters the seed on my favorite track “H.O.O.P.S” then grows the seed in “New Life”! This that album you should buy for that family member or friend who think they know it all and wants nothing to do with what you’ve been telling them. If they give this album a true listen you will have definitely planted a seed into their life. With intricate word play, funny skits, and classic punch lines, Expository Journey should be a definite cop! Know the Lords able/ to turn your tables-around like tornadoes/ that’s just small potatoes! - Clok S.O.U.L | Pg74
Various Artists
“Hip-Hope 2009” gotee.com
- Gotee Records
The veterans hold their own as Gotee proves they’re not going anywhere yet. This is another edition to their annual hip-hop compilations that have been dropping consistently every year for a hot minute. As usual it features a mix of established and up and coming artists. I was pleased by Washington Projects’ song “Come Back to Me,” which was most definitely “one of those crazy tracks” in touch with today’s Hip-Hop. New comers JADE and Proxy hold it down, while J Remy and Stefan the Scientist keep it locked. Braille does what he “do” and gives you what he always does – that dope wordplay. Speech delivers an in the pocket, classic Hip-Hop style joint that should make fans hungry for more. Grab a pretzel and peep Rootbeer only available on digital download. - Legacy
Mark J
“An Everyday World” gozpul.com
- Gozpul Records
An Everyday World…This is the title of the latest album of Atlanta’s son Mark J. From the very first intro track, for which it is named, this album sets out to address the issues and realities of our Everyday World. The track “Merge” exhorts us to bring the realms of belief and action together in our Everyday World. Check out the music video! “Hold This Line” encourages us soldiers to persevere and “Put on the full armor” as we fight the good fight in this Everyday World. Finally, “Champion” reminds us to grant praise and give props to Jesus, the One who calls us to share His love with our Everyday World. In short, Mark J’s new joint is a must-have for anyone struggling to seek encouragement as they journey daily through this Everyday World. - Intelligent Design
DJ Dvize & Legacy
“To the Ends of the Earth” myspace.com/legupmusic
- LegUp Music
What do you get when you have 20+ various artists, a dope drummer/MC (yes…drumming while rapping), an engineer and MC who’s nice on the beat making tip, and a fresh DJ… a hot album that’s what! This album features the good ladies and gents from Flavor Fest 2007. It was a long anticipated album that was actually 2 separate albums to begin with…“Still Waiting” by DJ D’vize and a project produced by Legacy that features the best of Flavor Fest from that year. So the 2 became 1 with 18 exclusive tracks to be exact. This gem features artist such as Iomas Marod, Rhema Soul, Braille, Urban D, Knowdaverbs, DJ Morph, Ras, Rawsrnt, Sean Slaughter, Dae-Lee... and the list goes on! Shout outs to the Ableton poster children (DJ D.Vize and Legacy) that produced such an awesome album! - DJ Dash
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Seven Pounds
Reviewed by Jabo
The drama movie “Seven Pounds” follows the life story of a guy by the name of Ben Thomas (Will Smith). He is on a journey to make up for the lives he destroyed earlier. His plans are to donate parts of his body, but along the way to accomplish this task he falls in love with Emily (Rosario Dawson), a young woman with a serious terminal heart condition. Throughout the entire movie, Ben Thomas is in search of seven people that are in need of bodily help. I found this movie unique in the sense that Ben Thomas was willing to give up his own life in order to help seven other people continue to live. Similar to the story of Christ, he lived and loved people until the point of death on the cross. Ben Thomas gave his life to save others, in comparison Christ gave up his life to save others…to save humanity. Most wouldn’t agree with the way Ben Thomas took his life, but think about it… if you were in his position with nothing left to live for. What would you do in order to save the life of others? Would it take something tragic to happen for you to change your direction in life?
National Treasure Reviewed by Roy Saringo
“Ask… seek… knock.” When these words of Jesus were documented, they were written in a common Greek dialect known as Koine. A closer rendition reads: Keep on asking for something to be given and it shall be given to you. Keep on seeking, and you shall find. Keep on reverently knocking, and it shall be opened to you. For everyone who keeps on asking for something to be given, keeps on receiving. And he, who keeps on seeking, keeps on finding. And he who keeps on reverently knocking, it shall be opened.” A simpler way to understand this message, I believe, is by considering the story of Disney’s National Treasure, because the message here isn’t just on persistent prayer, per say, but also on a principle of goal-setting and go-getting. In the film, Benjamin Gates (Nicolas Cage) desires to find a mythical treasure – the goal – and he’s so convinced of its existence – through faith – that he’s determined to prove the world wrong – with wisdom and planning. So he asks and seeks “the secret that lies with Charlotte.” And he knocks... but finds nothing but a Meerschaum pipe. Then, again he asks… learning the answer is in the nation’s capital. So he seeks… the Declaration of Independence. And even still, with document in hand, it raises more questions, with more answers, and even more doors to knock on. But each step is essential to building character and testing faith, just like it is for us. But we must know where we’re going and what we want, because if God knows the plans He has for us and we don’t, then we’re not really on the same page. The promise to be given is up in the air like our objectives. For Crossover, that door will literally open to a new facility on Fowler Avenue. -Questions asked. Answers sought. Doors knocked. Promise fulfilled. And we’re better for enduring the testing of our faiths.
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InkHeart Reviewed by Zulu Yengwa
If everything you read came to life, how careful would you be with your words? In the movie Inkheart, the hero, Mo “Silvertongue” Folchart, has such ability. His special gift, however, attracts unwanted attention from an evil character named Capricorn. Capricorn desires to use Silvertongue’s gift for his own evil intentions. The story is a classic tale of good versus evil where the tongue makes a rare appearance as itself: the deadliest weapon of all. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that a film based on the power of words would easily serve as an analogy for the Word of God. After watching the movie, I considered the scripture “death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21) and how literal should we take it. Once Silvertongue became aware of his ability he becomes cautious about what comes out of his mouth. So do we believe that everything we say has such a power, and, if so, how does that affect our choice of words?
The Day The Earth Stood Still Reviewed by Jerrell Johnson & Elizabeth Bros
This is not your normal alien invasion, sci-fi movie, but rather one with a unique twist. The film stars Keanu Reeves, from “The Matrix,” as Klaatu (an alien messenger whose purpose is to deliver a message to mankind). In the beginning, we assume Klaatu is sent to Earth to save human beings but later discover that he came to destroy mankind in order to save the planet, itself, from the human’s destructive ways. What intrigued us about this movie was the actual question in the message, ”Are we worth saving?” Though this movie is considered “sci-fi,” it has numerous similarities to the life of Christ. Like sin, the destructive ways of humans in “The Day the Earth Stood Still” leads them down the path of termination. Jesus Christ was sent to Earth as a messenger of God to lead us away from our wicked ways for our own sake. “Repent for the kingdom of God is at hand.” Though Klaatu’s mission at first was opposite of that of Christ, he later had a change of heart for the people, wanting to save them, just as God did for us when He gave up His Son. Jesus came to give us a chance to believe on Him so that we may not perish but have everlasting life. And as the humans fear for extinction, they plead for a second chance to prove they can indeed change. Eventually, Klaatu is convinced that the humans are capable of bettering their ways, leading him to sacrifice his own life for the sake of mankind. Klaatu was the only hope for the people in the film for survival, like Jesus Christ was and still is ours. The truth is people can change. Because it all comes down to one major point: we must all stand before God and be judged.
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Category: Books
Category: Books
Title: The Script
Title: Changing the Atmosphere
Written By: Fred Lynch
Written By: David “Da Phlo” Hazer
What do you get when you mix a pioneer of Hip-Hop ministry (Fred Lynch founder of P.I.D.) and the Gospel of John? An innovative new resource! Zondervan and Youth Specialties got behind this project and published it and recently made it available to the masses. The Script breaks down the original text into rhyme form and includes some commentary and questions. An audio CD is also included with the book that has songs of all the lyrics in the devotionals… so you can actually pop in the disc and listen and read along! This book is a valuable resource for youth ministry, introducing young people to God’s Word in a relevant way while engaging the intellect and encouraging creativity. If you are in youth ministry it is well advised that you snatch one of these tools made available to us by the people at YS. Expect questions and introspection as your youth and young adults dice and chop the book of John in a new and fresh way. Bon appetite! Review By: Legacy
“Changing the Atmosphere” addresses the negatives that plague secular Hip-Hop and thoroughly explains how the solution can be found in Christcentered Hip-Hop ministry. The issues that the book addresses are actually much larger than Hip-Hop and the Hip-Hop community. Even if you have no interest at all in Hip-Hop, you will benefit from reading this book. Mr. Hazer has created a thoughtprovoking book that will give you an introspective view of yourself and the world regardless of your background. One of his goals was to make this book accessible to a wide range of people in multiple demographics, and I must say that he accomplished that mission. Mr. Hazer was able to take the Gospel and simplify it enough for a child to understand it, but the same time keep an adult interested. The way the book flowed, it was as if you were just kickin’ it with one of the fellas. I never felt the content was over my head, nor did I feel that I was reading a children’s book. I will say that one of the most brilliant aspects of the book was the simplicity of it. Changing the Atmosphere, challenges us all to make a difference. It emphasizes that each and every one of us has a responsibility to each other and we are all valuable pieces of the puzzle. It also serves as a reminder that we’re all loved unconditionally by God and why we should share that love with others in the world. Anyone from the age of 12 and up should give this book a try. It will give you a new perspective and hopefully create that spark in you to want to “Change the Atmosphere”. Review By: Sean V. Harding
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Category: Website
Category: Curriculum
Title: Qualityjunk.com
Title: 13 Letters Curriculum
Powered By: Syntax Records
Produced By: Reach Life Ministries
“Hip Hop For The Soul”... This incredible resource has been around for a HOT minute. It’s remained and continued to grow and build over the years. We wanted to bring some attention to it in this issue of S.O.U.LMAG as it’s still a secret in many circles. Quality Junk by far has the largest physical selection of Christian Hip-Hop anywhere! There are 566 different CD’s you can choose from on the site. They stock all the newest stuff coming out from today’s popular artists like Lecrae, Tedashi and Da Truth, but they also carry some stuff that is really difficult to find. They have an entire section of old school Christian Hip-Hop with some classics from artists like Boogiemonsters, Dynamic Twins, Mike E and SFC.
The 13 Letters Curriculum is a non-exhaustive study of the Pauline Epistles. Reach Records and fam has a compilation of artists that use catchy hooks and verses to convey the content of each book that Paul wrote. It is unpacked even more as each artist gives a commentary on their lyrics in the curriculum resource. This engaging approach inspires you to “Dig In” and study the scriptures yourself (as one of the singles say).
There are also a few other music genres like Electronic/Dance, R&B and even some Reggae. If you are a purist on the turntables you can also find quite an impressive selection of Christian Hip-Hop vinyl as they have 39 different records to choose from! The website also features other merch like T-Shirts, hoodies and even some incense to get the crib smelling good. Quality Junk recently partnered with the popular Christian Hip-Hop site Rapzilla. com. This new partnership puts them in a position to continue to grow and reach even more people. So if you’re looking for resources online – definitely browse over the quality junk and fill up that shop-
can’t stay in the same place” - so lets grow ya’ll.
This is a new innovative way to encourage those of us who enjoy the art form of rap to dig in to the scriptures so that we can get to know Him more. I encourage everyone to hit the shelves and grab a 13 Letter Curriculum brought to you by 116 and dive in the word. Like Trip Lee says, “we gotta grow we
Review By: Rashad
ping cart! Review By: Cisco
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We decided to end this issue a little differently and have the artist on the cover personally close it out and leave you thinking… Philippians 4:8-9 8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is
right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable— if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. When I was asked to share some “final words” for this issue of S.O.U.LMag, I immediately thought about Paul’s final words in his letter to the Philippians. On the subject of “spin”, it’s easy for us to start “spinning” out of control. Rather then basing our attitudes and decisions on the goodness of God - we react, respond, spend, withhold and borrow out of fear. I’m guilty of this very thing in many areas of my life. I can remember going through a hard time in 2007. I was a first time homeowner with my first child and many hospital bills. I became overwhelmed and started making decisions in my life based on fear and based on that overwhelming feeling. I was meditating on the mountain in front of me that I couldn’t conquer alone, rather then meditating on God and his goodness. Directly and in-directly, this is what the media can cause us to do. We become overwhelmed with information, stats, facts and opinions. Have you ever felt like your head was so cluttered with “spin” that you couldn’t hear the voice of God? I’ve been in that boat many times. Our motivation to even read the bible sometimes becomes stifled because we are intimidated at the thought of taking in more information. Sometimes in order to get back in tune with God, we need to disconnect from everything else. Turn off the TV, turn off the stereo and share all your fears and doubts with God. Line them up with His word and pray for victory in those areas where you feel defeated. This brings us back to a place where we can operate in God’s grace and process the information we receive through a filter - holding God’s word at a higher position then our emotions.
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• Bryan “Braille” Winchester
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