April 2012
Life Issue
Tekoa Gospel News
New Music New Movies New Books Gospel Music News Poetry
Brely Evans
Her Role in"Sparkle" and "Live your Dreams-Live by Your Gift"
Interviews inside with Tonya Baker and Pastor Charles Jenkins
Dove Award Nominees show in Atlanta April 19th @7pm Fox Theater
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Tonya Baker
Table of Contents Cheneta Jones .............. Page 6 JJ Hairston CD Review......... Page 7 New Gospel Music .........Page8-10 Movies and Books............ Page 11 Project GIdeon by Waverly Kelly........ Page 12 Seeking Background SIngers..... Page 13 In Other News......Page 14 Mary Mary's Reality Show..... Page 15 Habbakuh Music ........... Page 16 A Beautiful Soul .............. Page 17 Donnie McClurkin ............ Page 18 Vickie Winans Comedy Tour.... Page 18 Poetry Corner with TUnisia Williams.......... Page 19 Interview with Tonya Baker...... Page 20-23 Interview with Brely Evans..... Page 24-27 Interview with Pastor Charles Jenkins... Page 28-29 The Dove Awards Information including performers, activites during the week, and nominees .. Page 30-37 Page 4
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Editorial Welcome to the April 2012 Issue of Tekoa Gospel News Magazine. I'm excited about what God is doing and the doors that he is opening for us all. As I thought about what I should say this month and the theme "Newness of Life", I thought of an old song with this lyrics: I want to be a follower of Christ I want to be one his disciples I want to walk in the newness of life So let me be a follower of Christ Well I'm so glad the no one has to "let" us become followers of Christ because he gave us salvation freely. His word also says that If we continue in His word, we are His disciples in deed and we shall know the truth and the truth shall make us free. When you walk in the newness of life, you are walking in freedom. When we walk in freedom, we are on the path called truth. Aren't you glad the Jesus made it so plain for us! Jesus dies and rose so that we would have a right to the tree of life so I am grateful. This issue is special because I had the chance to speak to Brely Evans on her role in the upcoming movie "Sparkle". She also travels the country encouraging young people that they can live their dreams and live by their gift. She is an awesome person and for her to take the time out to encourage a young person to go for it, makes her even more extraordinary.
bringing it to you. Remember, your life in Christ is precious. Guard your relationship. Cultivate your relationship with Christ through pray, praise and the word. Life is short. Living for Jesus is the only thing that really matters! Everything else is just temporary. God provided everything we need that pertains to life and godliness and Jesus came that we might have life more abundantly! So let's just walk in it! God Bless! Bianca Woodard Follow us on Twitter @tekoagospel "Like" us on Facebook - Tekoa Gospel
I also had the opportunity to speak with the Psalmist Tonya Baker. Her CD continues to bless me every time I play it and her interview was outstanding. SHe's humble and she truly has a heart for ministry. I hope you enjoy what she had to say as much as I did. It was truly an honor. Pastor Charles Jenkins of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church of Chicago is taking the country by storm with his single, "Awesome" and we had the chance to speak with him as well. We are dedicated to providing our readers with the most information and news in the gospel music industry so you'll find information on new CDs, movies, and news. I hope you enjoy this issue as much as I enjoyed bwoodard@tekoagospelmusicnews.com
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Get ready for Cheneta Jones May 22 Rising Contemporary Gospel Artist CHENETA JONES Makes Key Appearances In Preparation for Debut Release May 22 New artists are launched on the regular, but few have the unique fresh sound, magnetic personality and anointing like Cheneta Jones. This young talented St. Louis native is creating quite a buzz in gospel music. Her highly anticipated CD TRANSFORMED is scheduled to release on May 22 via Real Talent Media Group/ Habakkuk/Universal. Cheneta is in demand and on the road with a heavy promotional tour schedule and key appearances at Christian music events all over the U.S. Cheneta Jones is popping up everywhere and music fans are taking notice! Cheneta has already established a dynamic radio presence with her urban inspirational Top 40 BDS Gospel single “Be Like You”. She recently released a follow up single “We Worship You”, a compelling worship anthem which is already making its way up the gospel radio charts. visit www.ChenetaJones.com to catch up with Cheneta! Cheneta Jones Upcoming Key Appearances (click links for more info) April 6 - Jesus Week @Fellowship MB Church (Chicago, IL) Canton Jones, Cheneta Jones, Speaker: Erwin McManus April 17 - GMA Dove Week - Urban Soul Cafe (Atlanta, GA) DaTruth, LeJuene Thompson, Cheneta Jones, Preashea Hilliard May 4 - Va Beach Gospelfest (VA Beach, VA) Isaac Carree, Cheneta Jones, Todd Dulaney, Clint Brown May 18 - I Hear Music In The Air Conference (Cincinnati, OH) Kirk Franklin, Isaac Carree, Cheneta Jones, Byron Cage, Amber Bullock May 20 - New Life Covenant Church (Chicago, IL) Cheneta Jones May 26 - Faith Miracle Temple (St. Louis, MO) Cheneta Jones CD Release Concert
Courtesy of the Bellamy Group* Page 6
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JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise "After This"
"The Blood", which is Sunday Morning Church waiting to happen. He follows those suit with a foot stomper entitled "Reap" and after that song, it's all over but to shout! Track Listing for "After This" by Bianca Woodard There was much talk during the Stellar Awards about the choir eventually becoming obsolete as people migrate towards more of a praise and worship sound. In the midst of all the chatter, JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise have found a great balance between the two and have carved a niche for themselves as a choir provides that Sunday morning sound intertwined with praise and worship like songs. Their music can clearly go either way. Their new CD, "After This", provides this balanced approach that is true to Hairston's choir roots and at the same time provides the new sound that can be used for smaller groups or worship teams. The opening song on the CD, "Lord of All", is a driving with a hot band on the track. It features Bishop Hezekiah Walker on the drive. This CD is a concert experience and songs such as "My King" , "You", and "Victor" are examples of the songs that can easily morph into a praise service song or can be used by a skilled choir as a Sunday morning selection. James Fortune is featured on the third track, " Now" which is a ballad where the listener can hear the heavy northern vibrato but it is more than appropriate on this song. I love the mixture of the words of the song "Give Thanks" in the chorus of this song. I'm not sure who the person adlibbing on this song is, but they are killing at the end !!
1. Lord of All- Featuring Hezekiah Walker 2. My King 3. Now- James Fortune 4. After This - feat Bishop Eric McDaniels 5. Love Lifted Me - feat Tye Tribbett 6. You 7. Victor 8. Grateful 9. Working Out For Me - feat John P. Kee & Lisa Knowles 10. I Am 11. The Blood - feat Lashun Pace 12. Reap To listen to an interview with JJ Hairston, please click on the link below: http://tekoagospelmusicnews.com/?p=7455
Tye Tribbette is featured on "Love Lifted Me", which has a CCM sound to it. The song is more like a musical overture and JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise still give the listener that choir sound yet it can easily be translated to praise and worship. Hairston gives us a taste of what we missed at from the live recording at the beginning
bwoodard@tekoagospelmusicnews.com
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CD Reviews
of "Grateful", which is a great song for a skillful female singer. It fits perfectly into worship or as a solo for a choir. Hairston features great solo artists such as John P. Kee and Lisa Knowles on "Working it out for Me" and Lashun Pace on
New Gospel Music Mr Del DMG will also release RELOADED, a new Christian Hip Hop project by Memphis, TN based ministry and music coalition The Holy South. RELOADED marks the 10-year anniversary of The Holy South hip hop music ministry that started in Memphis as a result of founder Mr. Del parting ways from secular gangster rap group Three 6 Mafia. Mr. Del committed his talents and efforts to forming a special spiritual task force that had an evangelistic mission to win teens and young adults in the city and later expanded to the entire country. The Holy South has continued evangelizing and hitting the streets, touring extensively throughout the U.S. impacting their generation and the generation next.
Tim Bowman Jr. The son of #1 smooth jazz guitarist Tim Bowman, Bowman’s highly anticipated debut solo CD, Beautiful, releases on April 24, 2012. The thirteen-track set features guest appearances from Dorinda Clark Cole, Vickie Winans and a track produced by Marvin Winans Sr. Bowman, whose vocal influences range from Coldplay to Ella Fitzgerald, is poised to shake up the sacred music genre.His unique blend of rhythms would easily fit in on a Top 40 radio music playlist as it would in a Sunday morning church service. The sounds range from pulsating electronica tracks such as “Throw It Away” and “I’m Here” to raw gospel like the riveting, “Abide With Me Medley.” In between, there’s the Caribbean rumba of “Looking For Love,” the rousing rockedged anthem “Healer” and the acoustic guitar-laced ballad, “Beautiful.” Family friend, Dorinda Clark Cole of the legendary Clark Sisters, joins Bowman on the funky “Sunday Morning” while Marvin Winans Sr. produces the down home church track, “Abide With Me Medley.”
Damita Haddon The anticipation continues to build as Damita releases a fresh tune that is sure to complement the Spring season. "Won't Turn Back", is the up-tempo, energetic radio single that carries a strong message of staying with God no matter the circumstances. Throughout the song, she expresses her commitment to God with the lyrics, "With you by my side, I know I can win, You're my God and You're my closest Friend - I won't turn Back!" Written by Damita and produced by, Fredrick "Blaze", "Won't Turn Back" is an inspirational, urban contemporary track with a memorable hook that says, "I've been running for you a long time and I won't turn back, No I won't turn back!" Damita's signature vocal arrangements stand out along with the song's melody and lyrics. As one listens to this infectious tune, they will be reminded and encouraged to never their back on the living God. "Won't Turn Back" is a sure hit and one of many great songs from Damita's upcoming 2012 release.
Are you a record label, manager, or pr agent with a new artist or an artist that will release new music soon? Get featured in our next issue. Email your artist package to b w o o d a r d @ t e k o a g o s p e l m u s i c n e w s . c o m Page 8
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New Gospel Music Claude Deuce Stellar nominated gospel artist, Claude Deuce, has been hard at work on a new CD due out this summer. He just released his first single from the CD, "I Have You" and he's offering it to fans for FREE!! Click HERE to download the single. Go download your copy today and then hit him up on Facebook! Look for the entire CD entitled "The Pastor's Son" this Summer!
Chrystal Rucker “Once she gets the mic, you'll never forget her light but powerful soprano voice.” Stellar Award winning artist, Jonathan Nelson
The Gospel of Memphis The project is a slight twist from the Hip Hop records Mr. Del and his Dedicated Music Group (DMG) label is noted for releasing. Via a local competition, ten contemporary and traditional gospel artists where chosen to represent the flag of Gospel Music in Memphis on the forthcoming THE GOSPEL OF MEMPHIS project. The CD also showcases the writing and musical production of Key of D (David Gilliard and Marque Walker). THE GOSPEL OF MEMPHIS is an eclectic mix of musical styles that exist within the culture rich city. THE GOSPEL OF MEMPHIS releases June 19. The CD Features the following artist: Darryl Petties, D. McGhee, Chris Williams, Lisa Knowles, Courtney Little, Carla Tolbert, Markevius Faulkner, Sharonda Mitchell, Vision, Cameron Bethany and Chris Williams. Courtesy of the Bellamy Group
“Chrystal Rucker is one of the world’s most quietly kept secrets.” Grammy Award nominated choir leader, Ricky Dillard for almost two decades, Chrystal Rucker has been a star within the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) denomination. Over the years, she’s become known for her own spine-tingling renditions of Judy Garland’s “Over the Rainbow,” Tramaine Hawkins’ “Changed” and Lecresia Campbell’s classic, “Safety.” Now, the EPM Music Group is prepping to introduce Chrystal to the world with her national CD debut, “You Deserve” (EPM Music Group). The 11-song CD hits retail and online stores everywhere on June 26, 2012. Courtesy of
Bill Carpenter
Anita Wilson Anita Wilson, praise and worship leader at Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago, released a CD "Worship Soul" on April 3, 2012. Pick up your copy today! It's a great project!
bwoodard@tekoagospelmusicnews.com
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New Gospel Music
Elder Goldwire McLendon spent seven decades ministering to people in song and words before he had the opportunity to minister on a worldwide stage as a contestant on Season 3 of BET’s Sunday Best, the world’s leading gospel competition television show. The spirited and charismatic 79-year-old gained a large and devoted group of fans as he made his way toward the show’s finale, where he was first-runner-up to Le’Andria Johnson. Now, at age 81, he has a recording contract with Matthew Knowles’ Music World Gospel, which will release his first solo CD, The Best of Elder Goldwire McLendon. The CD, which features new recordings of songs he performed on Sunday Best, will be available online and in stores on April 24, 2012. Courtesy of Music World “After a decade worth of projects, hundreds of songs, thousands of nights of worship, and hundreds of thousands of people who have allowed us to usher them to Jesus, whether by way of recording or live events, I am so grateful that you gave us an opportunity to worship with you,” says four-time Grammy Award winner, Israel Houghton, to his vast, multi-cultural audience of fans in a statement. The Houston-based worship leader recently released a double-disc collection, “Decade,” that features twenty-six of Houghton’s bestloved songs such as “Friend of God,” “Not Forgotten” and “Again, I Say Rejoice.” It also includes the infectious new live recording, “Jesus At The Center,” a mid-tempo congregational tune from his forthcoming autumn CD release, “Jesus At The Center.” The uplifting collection is in retail stores and available at all major online portals such as iTunes, Amazon.com, Rhapsody and Spotify, among others. Lexi is back with a new single entitled "Burn It All Down". The singer and TV host has a vocal tone that reminds me of CeCe Winans. This mid tempo song is a cry to return back to the place of worship and fellowship with God that is void of idols and distractions. Lexi recently signed with Malaco Records.
On May 2nd, Tyscot Music & Entertainment will release the new CD from Deitrick Haddon presents Voices of Unity, A Beautiful Soul-Music Inspired by the Motion Picture. Momentum is building about this release and there has been substantial buzz surrounding its current radio single “No Betta”, featuring Deitrick Haddon and Faith Evans. Penned as a fun and inspiring anthem of victory, “No Betta” has received countless praises from fans since its release to radio. A Beautiful Soul also includes the tracks Marching Orders featuring Kierra Sheard; The More I Praise, featuring Canton Jones and New Life featuring Fonzworth Bentley. The excitement has just begun for the release of A Beautiful Soul-Music Inspired by the Motion Picture and with God at the forefront it truly gets ‘no betta’. Courtesy of Tyscot Records
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Movies, Books, DVD Release Date: April 13th, 2012
Release Date: April 20th, 2012
bwoodard@tekoagospelmusicnews.com
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Project Gideon by Waverly Kelly When Time Magazine places you on its cover and asks if you are the next Billy Graham you have ascended into the ranks of greatness. If you can speak and the world pays attention you have earned the right to be heard. From Woman Thou Art Loosed to Manpower, Bishop T. D. Jakes has galvanized the hearts of the world and isn’t looking to slow down anytime soon. What on earth could he do that he hasn’t already done. In a 2011 TBN interview Bishop said that God had moved him from “Destiny to Legacy”. Resting comfortably in this transition, Project Gideon was birthed out of his spirit. Let's gather the staff, begin to project plan, marketing, publicity to prepare for the masses that will come......No.....If you know Gideon's story you know that the number he started with was chopped down to 300. It was not magnified on major broadcast outlets, but a clarion call was raised in the Spirit for clergy under forty years old who were not face down in their own vision. The private, invite by letter only conference would commence in Dallas, TX. I was blessed to receive a letter and be among those selected. My bags were packed in a flash and I was headed for Big D. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation as we mingled among ourselves. These leaders from all over the US and abroad gathered under one roof to to become a part of a lineage. This is what the present and future voice of the church looked like. We were ready to receive an impartation. From the very first session Bishop poured out his heart, stating to us that there would be no recordings, video or audio. He wanted it to get into our heads, and encouraged us to take unlimited notes. From the very beginning Bishop loved us, chastised us, encouraged us, and empowered us. In loving us he told us that we need take care of ourselves and balance who we are in public with who we are at home. In chastising us he told us to deep not wide. Each generation could hear the next generation coming behind them, but with us he said "I cannot hear you coming want to hear you coming". In encouraging us he to study the old testament tabernacle if we wanted to be serious new testament preachers. Finally in empowering us he laid hands on us and told us to get beyond our circle. There was a lot taught in this session, but there was more caught. This group came as individuals, but left as Gideonites, gladiators in training. There is a sound that gladiators make, and only other gladiators recognize that sound. Listen closely....... we're coming!!
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Sherri Jones-Moffet and Ricky Dillard looking for singers The hunt for background singers is back on with gospel artist Sherri Jones-Moffett. She is a powerful singer that most know from her stint with Tedd and Sheri as well as her lead vocals on "Encourage Yourself" on Donald Lawrence. Now she wants to know if you have what it takes to rock with her! She posted the following message on her Facebook page on Sunday March 25th, 2012: SHERI JONES-MOFFETT SEEKING TALENTED
As reported at the Stellar Awards, Ricky Dillard is opening online auditions for New G as promised! Here's what you need to do: Here's the official announcement from Facebook
BACKGROUND SINGERS
NEW G VIDEO AUDITIONS!!!
EMI Gospel Recording Artist, Sheri Jones-Moffett
If you have a desire to become apart of the New
is currently seeking background singers for her
Generation Chorale aka NEW G, here's your
LIVE! Recording in Memphis this summer.
opportunity to audition. We are opening
Singers will have the opportunity to become
membership to residents of the following states:
permanent for future performances. Therefore,
ILLINOIS, INDIANA & WISCONSIN; Ages 19-40.
you must be very passionate, have a GREAT
Looking for lead vocalist, background vocalist,
attitude and serious about music and singing!
persons with personality, passion and skill. If
Auditions will be held Saturday, April 21, 2012 in
you're interested, please send a VIDEO of yourself
Memphis, Tennessee. For more information and
sing...ing a song of your choice to:
registration, please email a recent photo (smart
newgauditions@gmail.com
phone, FACEBOOK, etc.) and your music resume
Okay all of you choir heads! Submit... wait.. I'm
noting your prior experience and/or training to
talking to myself.. I love some Ricky Dillard &
sheri.bookings@gmail.com
New G!
Please be sure to include your name, contact number, e-mail address and vocal part. If selected, you will receive a confirmation by email or phone to confirm your audition time. Please come prepared to sing a song of your choice A cappella. You'll also be tested on your ability to harmonize. Well, if you think you have what it takes, make your way to Memphis Tennessee and audition.
bwoodard@tekoagospelmusicnews.com
Background singers that record on projects should consider joining industry organizations such as The Gospel Music Association, SAGMA , and The Recording Academy (Grammys). Let's be smart and use our influence to grow the gospel through music.
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In other News... Leandria Johnson is pregnant. We heard the rumors and now Leandria has admitted that she is pregnant. According to The Root Magazine site, "Out On A Limb Productions and Yesha Ministries was transformed last night from a simple concert to a night of worship, praise and transparency as Le’Andria Johnson revealed to the Philadelphia crowd that she is indeed pregnant." This is a short post, but please see the entire story on Root Magazine.
The Dream Girlz Gathering LIVE will train and mentor girls ages 8-18 National recording artist Melinda Watts will share her girlcentric empowerment workshop, Dream Girlz Gathering, on April 28th from 9am to 3pm at Garfield Memorial Church (3650 Lander Road, Pepper Pike, OH). The traveling event offers a “safe space” for girls 8-18 to be open & honest, while receiving the love, training and support they need.
healthy self-esteem. Melinda is joined by an allstar cast of panelists and speakers as she pulls on many of her peers to contribute to the young lives. Along with Melinda, speakers will include recording artist Jai, radio and media personality, Neechy, and young author and minister, Prophetess Kelly Crews. The high-energy conference was birthed out of Melinda’s passion for youth, particularly young women who grapple with unique pressures. A former high school teacher, Watts is best known for winning the Gospel singing competition, the Gospel Dream; advancing into a busy musical career and soon becoming one of the most sought after contemporary singers and songwriters within the genre. Melinda is currently working on her sophomore album and is more determined than ever to utilize her platform to uplift youth. “Music is the gateway to many people and I use my voice to share a message of hope and encouragement to these young girls.” The Dream Girlz Gathering is an official partner of the United Nations “Girl Up” program and the conference travels internationally throughout the year. Mothers are also encouraged to attend and tickets are available for $20 each. For more information please visit http:// www.melindawatts.com/conferences.
Kim Burrell spoke out for the first time since Whitney Houston's cause of death was revealed in this interview with "Showbiz Tonight". She recently recorded a commemorative project whose proceeds will go to her church in Houston, the Love and Liberty Church. Whitney helped to fund her church while living... She mentions that she believed that Whitney relapsed.....
A full day of events, Watts offers mentoring and training to tween and teen girls who aspire to be future leaders. She offers a life changing experience as girls are inspired and uplifted to reach their Check out the interview... http:// greatest potential. At the Conference, girls attend tekoagospelmusicnews.com/?p=7798 workshops that focus on leadership, violence prevention, HIV/AIDS awareness, and building
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MARY MARY'S REALITY SHOW mother that I think we'll grow to love. She is a far cry from the tough talking Sunday Best Judge. I think she is a driven young lady who knows what she wants and understands that it takes focus and determination to get there. I thought the moment with her daughter was touching. I couldn't imagine having to tell a child that I wouldn't be able to be there on Thanksgiving and that I'd miss their big moment at school. Tina seems to be an excellent mother and it shines through on camera. I thought it was interesting that she calls her husband "Husband". Erica's pregnancy was tough, but she is a tough lady. Her family is important to her and the way she lights up when they are around was a joy to see. I'm interested to see how she copes with the contractions and the news from the doctor on slowing down. I had no idea that her hair was black under all that blonde. She still has the best hair in gospel music so whoever is making her wigs needs to create a wig line. I had no idea that Atlanta was Mary Mary's biggest media market and fan base. It was great to know that information and good to see them stopping in at Praise 102.5 to interview with Darlene McCoy. Gospel artists have to take an interest in their careers and appearances are a part of that. The anticipation for this show was built up complete with screenings and a solid media campaign. So, what's the fan verdict on the show? I think it was a pretty decent show. With reviews out there that state that the show lacked that reality luster we are used to seeing from the Braxtons or the Real Housewives franchise, I'd have to say that these ladies are not supposed to be full of that kind of drama as gospel singers. With that being said...on to the review
Erica and Tina kept referring to laying down "Erica" or "Tina" to become a "Mary" or a "mother". It sounded a little strange... but we'll see. Overall the show gets a B+ in my book for a decent attempt at showing us the Real Mary Mary. If you missed it, don't worry!
I'm ready to see what kind of tension develops between Mitch (the manager) and Goo Goo (the sister stylist). Viewers can tell right off the rip that Mitch obviously has an issue with Goo Goo. I'm glad that the dress arrived to the venue on time and that it fit Erica. The show highlights some interesting Mary Mary facts such as: The ladies have a problem arriving on time - we'll see how big of a deal as the show unfolds They are not always wigged, snatched, and beat when they travel or do interviews. It was refreshing to see their real hair and no makeup. I applaud Erica and Tina for allowing us to see them in their natural state. Tina showed us that she has a hard shell, but underneath it all, there is a caring and sensitive
bwoodard@tekoagospelmusicnews.com
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HABAKKUK MUSIC LAUNCHES THE GOT GOSPEL? SIX SOUNDS OF SUMMER CAMPAIGN Music By Newcomers Alongside Veteran Artists Such As Lisa Page Brooks, Clint Brown and Shekinah Glory Ministry’s Valencia Lacy One of the leading independent gospel music labels, Habakkuk Music, is launching an ambitious summer marketing campaign that begins June 3rd to kick off Black Music Month. The campaign revolves around six new CD releases that Habakkuk is issuing under the umbrella theme of Got Gospel? Six Sounds of Summer. “We have secured two great branding partners for the campaign,” says Habakkuk Music founder and CEO, April Washington Essex. “Veda Brown, CEO of Black Gospel Promo, and I are partnering to release a new CD compilation series, Got Gospel? The Best Indie Tracks…Yesterday, Today & Forever. The first installment of that series releases on June 5th but the first CD of the campaign drops on May 22nd with the release of Chenta Jones’ set, Transformed. Our other branding partnership is with FYE stores, our key retail partner. The Got Gospel? Six Sounds of Summer will include in-store branding, in-store concerts, autograph sessions and other cool components.” The six projects included in the campaign are: 5/22 Cheneta Jones - Transformed 6/5 Various Artists - Got Gospel?: The Best Indie Tracks…Yesterday, Today & Forever Presented by Black Gospel Promo.com 7/3 Clint Brown - Release 7/17 Gerald Scott & Company - Incredible 8/28 Lisa Page Brooks- Better Than Life 9/28 Valencia Lacy - Title: TBD The campaign will be implemented in sixty FYE stores nationwide that attract black gospel music consumers. The releases feature newcomers such as Cheneta Jones and veterans such as Lisa Page Brooks who gave Habakkuk Music its first #1 hit with “I Want To Say Thank You” in 2010. To learn more about Habakkuk Music and its fine artist roster, visit www.habakkukmusic.com for more information. Courtesy of Bill Carpenter
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Deitrick Haddon Stars in " A Beautiful Soul" After selling upwards of 100,000 copies of the “Blessed & Cursed” film DVD that showcased Grammy Award nominated recording artist Deitrick Haddon’s first starring role as an actor, he is now prepping for the rollout of his second big acting vehicle. The singer-songwriter’s new film, “A Beautiful Soul,” is done and will make its national debut at AMC Theaters across the country on May 4th when it will also open at two Detroit-area AMC theaters: Southfield 20 (25333 West 12 Mile Rd. Southfield, MI 48034) Forum 30 (44681 Mound Rd. Sterling Heights, MI 48314) . In the meantime, Haddon, who now lives in Los Angeles, is coming to his native Detroit for A Beautiful Soul Experience: Fan Appreciation Tour to rally fans to support the theatrical release of it the first week in May. During the event, Haddon will sing music from the film, engage in a Q&A session with attendees and show exclusive clips of the film to whet fans appetites to go out and support the movie when it opens. The party takes place April 17th @ 7 p.m., Christian Tabernacle Church, located at 26555 Franklin Road, Southfield, MI 48033. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and admission is free. Directed by Jeff Byrd (“Soul Food “ TV series), “A Beautiful Soul”, is the story of Andre Stephens (Haddon), an R&B superstar who has success, fame and fortune but has lost his way spiritually. The film follows Andre after his “perfect” life is shattered in a brutal attack that leaves he and his best friend, Chris Johnson (Ri’chard), clinging to life. The tragedy pushes Andre onto a spiritual journey that forces him to make a choice that could change his destiny forever. Leading the “A Beautiful Soul” cast is Haddon as Andre Stephens. The film also stars Harry Lennix (“The Matrix”) as Jeff Freeze, Robert Ri’chard (“Coach Carter”), Lesley Ann Brandt (“Spartacus”), and Barry Floyd (“The Game”). The film also features an original soundtrack of music from Deitrick Haddon as well Kierra Sheard and Faith Evans, among others.
Courtesy of Tyscot Records
bwoodard@tekoagospelmusicnews.com
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GOSPEL SINGER DONNIE MCCLURKIN CONTINUES TO SPREAD THE GOOD NEWS WITH BUSY SPRING SCHEDULE Plans Under Way for McClurkin to Lend His Voice to New Inspirational Animated Series Ministry and music never stops for award-winning gospel singer Donnie McClurkin. After years of traveling the globe, keeping pace with his schedule still proves to be a challenge. McClurkin kicks off the month of April at the Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, OH. He’s set to perform on April 10 at the Rock My Soul event honoring gospel great and long-time friend Kirk Franklin. Fans will soon be able to experience a new journey with McClurkin when he makes his voice-over debut as Coach Jacobi Mars in inspirational animated series, Starry Cross Academy, currently in the pre-production stage. Also on board to lend their voice to the series is actress, Jasmine Guy. While in Atlanta for Starry Cross recording, McClurkin will join the starstudded line-up for the 43rd Annual GMA Dove Awards at the Fox Theater on Thursday, April 19. The show will be taped for television and aired nationally on GMC TV on Tuesday, April 24 at 8pm and 10pm/EDT. The 11th Annual I Hear Music in the Air Conference (May 18-20) will honor McClurkin at their black tie Legend’s Ball set to commence the three day event on May 20 and will feature today’s biggest names in gospel music.. Popular syndicated radio program, The Donnie McClurkin Show, turns six this year and currently airs in over 60 markets continuing to expand across the country and Jamaica. To check out show in your area log onto www.donnieradio.com, www.donniemcclurkin.com or follow him on Twitter: @donniemcclurkin. Legendary gospel singer Vickie Winans has added another element to her already busy singing career! “The Comedianna” (her trademarked definition of a hilarious storytelling Queen), is hitting the road to promote 2 newly recorded Comedy DVDs, entitled, “Hilarious And Unplugged” Volumes 1 and 2. The stand-up comedy projects will be available in stores, on her website and at every stop along the projected 40-city tour that will take the charismatic singer into churches, theaters, and other venues. The tour kicks off on Easter Sunday, April 8, 2012 at the 10,000-seater, House of Hope/ Salem Baptist Church Worship Center, in Chicago where Rev. James Meeks is the Pastor, and continues throughout the summer. Both DVDs were recorded on December 7, 2011 to multiple standing-room-only audiences at Detroit’s Upper Room Complex. During nearly four hours of stage time, Winans told one sidesplitting story after another, from her life’s experiences to growing up with 11 siblings. She had everybody from dignified Bishops to the city’s fire marshal doubled over with laughter. During the evening, Winans performed a live version of her smash hits, “Shake Yourself Loose” and “How I Got Over” with her nephew, Tim Bowman Jr., and she also shot a live music video of her son Mario Winans’ “Overcomer” remix. These songs are included on the DVDs that are rated “E” for Everybody.
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Poetry Corner
The Widow of Zarephath By Tunisia Williams She waits patiently at the city gates for the one whom will deliver her household from the famine. It had been seven days since she received word from the God of Israel about the prophet’s impending arrival. Had she really heard God’s voice or was it just her imagination. Her meager portions had all but run out except for a cruse of oil and a handful of flour which was set aside for her special guest. Gathering twigs the widow decides to prepare the last meal for her and her son that they may eat and die. Suddenly a man appears at the gates entrance. His voice pierces her spirit as he commands her to feed him. His looks deceive her as she has pictured the deliverer to be a wealthy man riding in on a caravan with gold, silver, and enough rations to feed the entire town. But here, this haggard man stands before her requesting she use her barely leftovers to feed him. Doubt begins to creep into her heart and mind as the words flow from her lips her intention for what she has left. Unfazed by her condition, the man requests the meal, and in her obedience she hurries off to her home to prepare what she perceives to be their last supper. The kind gentleman enters her domain and takes a seat at the table near the hearth. He observes her most valuable possession, a young lad whose inquisitive eyes tell a story of laughter and childhood innocence stolen by hardships. The widow’s obedience to the blessed stranger has become a miracle. She feeds him first and after he consumes the meal, he instructs her to feed her son. With the faith the size of a mustard seed, the widow reaches into her meal barrow and scoops a cup filled with flour. Have her eyes failed her? Surely, this was a prophet of God. The widow and her son rejoiced for they no longer had to fear death. Showing her hospitality, the widow encouraged the prophet to remain in their home, and he did
Tunisia Williams is a writer and poet, and she has recently entered the world of Spoken Word poetry. Her love for God and His word is reflected in her writings. She is currently working on her first novel – excerpts along with poetry and short stories may be found on her blog site, www.tlwpoetry.com.
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Tonya Baker
Tonya Baker has been a blessing in my life since I heard her "Live Encounter" CD. Her sincere heart for worship and praise is evident in her song ministry and her desire to cry out to God. She is touring with the CD and has some new music in the works. Get to know Tonya a little better! Bianca: You put out the CD “The Live Encounter” and to me it just seemed like you came out of nowhere. How has this latest CD impacted or changed the course of your career? Tonya : It really was a blessing. I’ve been doing this as career for about 10 or 11 years. The Live Encounter is my third project. Over the years I’ve had people ask me “are you going to do something live”.... “We enjoy your CD but when you guys do live stuff it’s really just a blessing”... “You can’t capture that on CD”... So I thought okay. I teamed up with Kingdom Records and they were like “what do you see for your next project”? I said I would love to do a live recording and they agreed. So they got Myron Butler on board and that was an honor in and of itself...to be able to work with him. It just really turned out to be something special. I wanted to record it here in my hometown. That night...it really was just electric. My desire to title it “The Live Encounter” was because I said you know we want this to be an experience with God.. an encounter meaning a chance meeting face to face and that was my prayer. I said God you know this is going to be a recording but I want this to be authentic. I want it to be genuine and I really want you to meet us there. It really went beyond it just being a recording and really that’s what He did. He met us there. Even everything that we got to keep on the actual CD... there’s so much more that wouldn’t even fit on the CD but it was just a night that I won’t forget and I pray a night that folks that attended won’t forget because God really did meet us there by His spirit. There were some things spoken, some things done and a lot of stuff sung, but I really wanted the opportunity to capture what we do as we minister in a live setting. It’s definitely true that a lot of that can’t be captured
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Bianca: What are your favorite tracks to sing on your CD? Tonya: Don’t ask me that.. Bianca: Oh yes please tell me Tonya: I’ll tell you what I love all the songs but “Sing Forever” and the reprise to “Miracles”, but the one that’s really really dear to my heart is “This is How We Love”. It’s just a message in that song about us getting back to love. Now the most fun song that we do is “Shine Forth”. When we do that one live we really get the people involved. That’s one of the things that I love to do when we minister is to get the people involved. I have them sing with me. Many people that know me or have experienced my ministry live, they know that I’ll just walk out into the congregation and have people start singing. That’s one that we really have a good time with. We get them up and get them dancing and grooving so we have a good time with that one. Tonya: Which ones are you favorites? Bianca: I’ll have to say off the back, my first favorite was “Miracles” but as I listened down I love “Tonya’s Psalm”. I asked you at the Bonnerfide Radio Party what time signature that song was in because I could not figure it out. Tonya: Did you figure it out yet? Bianca: I don’t know. My friend who plays the drums was like that’s 3/4 Bianca. It’s so easy. I don’t know but it’s a beautiful song. I love the words and I love the whole song itself. I was like this is the most interesting arrangement that I think I’ve heard in Gospel music. Tonya: Wow Bianca: Well to me. Most people just sing straight, but that was interesting. I like the “Miracles” reprise, “I like Shine Forth”, “I Came to Praise”... I like “This is How We Love”.. I like the whole CD. It literally stayed in my car for about 6 months straight.
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Tonya: That’s a blessing because there’s so much good stuff out there so when you find something that really ministers to you that you can enjoy that’s blessing to know so I appreciate you even sharing that with me. Even thinking about the song Tonya’s Psalm.. it’s hilarious because when I was writing this song I wasn’t thinking about a time signature or anything. I was just really thinking about a waltz. You know a Dancing with the Stars Waltz. As it just came out I wasn’t thinking any particular time signature. The thing that get people the most is the beginning because when you get into it, you can tell it’s that 3/4. In the beginning , the way that the band.. and I tell you the way they played that thing and especially in the beginning it makes you wonder what is really going on or what’ getting ready to happen
Tonya Baker
in a studio recording. It was an honor for me to do a live recording and then to have it produced by Myron Butler- that’s a blessing.
Bianca: You are obviously a worshipper and praiser. What church do you attend, who are your pastors? Tonya: I attend the Mount Pisca Baptist Church in Dayton Ohio. My Pastor is Kerry Edwin Bryant. I was born and raised in the Missionary Baptist Church. My family sings... my mom, my dad, their families sing and that’s just something that we’ve always done. I never even thought about doing it as a career until I was in high school. I thought everybody could sing. I didn’t think it was anything spectacular. I joined the choir when I was in high school. I sang with the choir and the community choirs as I got older. Really it was just something that I loved to do. I began to write songs and I believe that’s how God ordered my steps because it wasn’t my desire to be an artist of any kind... R&B, Gospel, nothing. I just loved to sing and I would write songs. One particular church we used to go to, which was a charismatic church... I went there in my early twenties. The minister of music there would allow us to introduce our own material. So that’s when I was first introduced to the Praise and Worship type dynamic in a service. I was again early twenties and that was in 91. That was the beginning of my writing and I sang with the choir and the praise team there. Many times throughout the years we would have
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guests come in and we would sing our songs that we wrote and people began to ask whose CD is that song on... we’d say oh Sister Tonya wrote that or Sister Sharon wrote that. We got asked to do other things or events or come to our church and lead worship or come to our church team. We did that for many years and that was the beginning actually of my career. My husband said if people are asking for a CD then you might want to consider doing one. I thought why. They’re just being nice. He said well that’s a whole lot of people just being nice. So that was the beginning of my recording career. I put several of the songs that I wrote on the CD and people bought them and I thought “What.. yall really want to hear this”. So that was my very first project. That’s just really how God ordered my steps. He just really laid that plan out for me because it wasn’t my plan. Bianca: Who are your musical and ministerial influences? Tonya: I listen to everybody and everything. It’s so hard to say because growing up we listened to everything that was on the radio. We listened to Motown, Stevie Wonder, Donnie Hathaway, The Supremes, Sister Sledge... I didn’t even listen to a lot of gospel until my late teens early twenties. I went to church as a child because that is just what we did. My parents were like “You going to church” so I didn’t really have a lot of church influences. By way of my testimony, I got pregnant at 17. So I had my son and I got kicked out of everything.. you can’t be on the Junior usher board, you can’t be in the youth choir, you can’t be in nothing you gonna sit down. That was really painful for me to go through, but by God’s grace I made it through that. I had the loving support of my family and they were always
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there for me. But even in that I was looking for an outlet to keep singing so I joined a community choir and that’s when I started listening to gospel music. So we would hear stuff from all the choirs you knowMilton Brunson & Thompson Community Singers, Mississippi Mass Choir, and that’s when I was first introduced to the Clark Sisters, The Winans.. that’s where that dynamic came from...and Commissioned oh my goodness.. When first heard them I was like what in the world is going on... This is gospel music- I love it! Other than listening to Aretha Franklin or something like that on Sunday Morning, I never even really listened to gospel to the late late 80’s early 90’s. Bianca: I listen to a lot too. I’m telling my age but we would sit in front of the radio and what for what we wanted to come on so we could tape it. Tonya: Right! Bianca: My dad was the quartet king when we got in the car Tonya: Honey! My dad.. My dad is from West Virginia. There were 17 children on my dad’s side of the family so they had 3 of their own quartets. My grandfather was the president of the quartet convention in Scarboro and Beckley West Virginia. So quartet is all up and through. My dad is still on the quartets. I listen to any and everything. I listen to quartets, choirs, country, everything. Bianca: Your CD has been out a little bit over a year. What’s next on your agenda in regards to your CD or are you working on something new? Tonya: We’re touring and people can keep in touch with the calendar and schedule on line on my
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I am going to be working on some new material. We have a few new things in the works. So we’re really just trying to decide which route we want to go. If we want to do another full fledge project or just put some things out there just to see if the people are kind of feeling what we have to say this go round. So people can look for some new stuff in the next few months. Bianca: There’s a video for This is How We Love right? Tonya: Yes you can see that on YouTube. It’s been played on some of the gospel video stations. They can see it on my website too which is www.tonyabakerministries.com. Bianca: You were nominated for Stellar Awards. I don’t believe you compromised your standard of ministry to get there. How does that make you feel? Tonya: Honestly I just think... and folks will probably think I’m just trying to be funny but we need to stop drinking our own koolaid. We have to realize and come to the point where we understand and know.. not just say it.. but really know that apart from Him, we really are nothing and anything we do is in vain if not for Him or to
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bring glory to Him. I just stay in that mindset. I understand the industry we are in but for me it’s always about ministry and so I remain touchable, I remain teachable, and I just remain open to His spirit. It’s not that everyone else doesn’t. I know they do. I just try to maintain that level of focus. It can become challenging to maintain that level of focus if we have so many handlers and this and that and suchy much. When we get to the point that we’re so suchy muchy we can’t be open so we can be used. So that’s the focus that I maintain. I really know that Tonya really is no big deal. Now I come to do what I’m gonna do and I’m going to do it to the best that I can and I’m gonna give glory to God, but at the end of the day Tonya really is no big deal. We came to make Him famous. We represent HIm. So as we do it and do it for HIm and His glory I believe he just does whatever it is he wants to do with us. So I’m thankful for acknowledgements. I am thankful for any accolades or any recognition. I really am. It humbles me. It really does because I know me. All people know is what they see of me, but I know me. So I realize God this is for you and it really is for you. Use me however you want to use me and I hope the people like it.
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website which is www.tonyabaker.com. I really want folks to grab a hold of this campaign that we want to launch called “This is How We Love” which is of course a single from the project. What we really want people to do is basically get back to the basics. I’ve noticed as the body of Christ we get involved in things in cycles but love is the one thing that never fails. It’s constant and it’s consistent and that’s really the message that I want to come across in any and everything that I do on an everyday basis- It’s showing the love of God and us being the example of what love really looks like and not so much talking about it, but being about it. We’re preparing that website www.thisishowwelove.org and that’s something that I really want to push. We want people to get on board and say you can love. You don’t have to have a license. You don’t have to have a permit. You don’t have to have a degree. Just a loving heart and a willing vessel. So that’s the message that we really want to push right now so I’m really big on that.
It sounds probably kind of crazy. Bianca: No not at all. I actually appreciate it. I think that it comes through on your CD. You made a statement on there - “Yall new people up here don’t know me. I’ll cry out”. I was like okay then. Let’s keep going. Tonya: We’ll make up a song on the spot. I like to stay open. I always said God you sing over us and we’ll sing over your people. You speak to us, we’ll speak to your people. You know.. just stay open Tonya was a joy to speak to and I encourage everyone to go out and purchase her "Live Encounter" CD. Let it bless your socks off as it did mine.
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BRELY EVANS
Brely Evans is in "Sparkle" Brely Evans is a wonderful and bubbly actress in Hollywood who some might remember because of her role on "Just Wright" as a best friend and coworker for Queen Latifah's character, Leslie Wright. Some might remember her from her commercials for Twix. She is a wonderful person and she is representing Christ in her craft as an actress.
role I think that is being an authentic friend in my own life. It quite easy for me to take on those roles. I am an only child so I love people like hard. I think that I’ve been blessed to play characters that are close to home and I’ve been blessed with some very good acting coaches such as Chip Fields, Tasha Smith, Kimberly Floyd. I’ve worked with some wonderful people (Richard Lyons) who have prepared me for this moment. I’ve been in Brely is on the move with her role as Tune Anne in classes for the last 5 years coming out of doing a the remake of "Sparkle". We sat down to find out lot of commercials and it’s finally paying off. about her latest endeavors and to learn about Brely's drive to help young people live their dreams. Tell us about your character in “Sparkle” You can count on me to hold a tune. That is an original character from the original movie. If you see that, you will see Tune Ann in that movie. I play the best friend of Jordan Sparks who plays the role of Sparkle. Tamela Mann plays my plays my mom. It was a fun time on set playing the best friend role... always being there for my girl. We go to church together, Tell our readers about your experience we share our secrets... we’re just bosom buddies. working with so many great people on the set of the movie “Sparkle”. How did you prepare for the character? Surprisingly enough, if you looked at my resume, Hmm.. My experiences are far and wide. I’ll just I’ve been a best friend quite often. There’s kind of go down the line. Tamela was amazing. Of a niche going here. It seems as though it’s really course I got to get up close and personal with odd that it happened that way... the last three uncle David I affectionately call him now, her films “Note to Self” with Latoya Luckett and husband because he was around a lot of the time. Christian Keys.. I play Latoya’s best friend. Queen They made me feel so comfortable amongst all of Latifah and Common I played Queen Latifah’s best them being the stars that they are. They really friend at work in “Just Wright”. Then again in took their time with me outside of the set and I “Sparkle” , Jordin’s best friend. Preparing for the really appreciated that. They gave me industry ins and outs.
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Brely Evans Working with Jordin with her being a newbie and I’m kind of a newbie, we kind of like leaned on each other and we really became friends outside of the set so that it would be authentic when the cameras are rolling. So that was amazing! Derek Luke and Omari - Those are my two new big brothers. Love them dearly. We also decided that on some Sundays we would just find churches in the local Detroit area that we would visit. So I love them and their wives and fiances. They just let me tag along. We go to church and then go eat afterwards. We really had a ball. Of course I’m saving the most touching and the most memorable one for last - Whitney Houston. Just being on set with her and seeing her lips form my name to say Brely.. I didn’t even know to ask God for that blessing okay. It was super amazing to not only rub elbows with her but to have her give me bear hugs and to have her tell me to “sing this line” “Harmonize with me on this”, “baby do this oooo”. I’m like oh Lord Whitney Houston .. I can’t do this. She was super amazing continuously depositing encouragement in all of our spirits. I wish people could see. Where was anyone there with camera to see me sitting in the lunchroom with her. I rewind the tape of that quite often in my head. She took the time out to say I’m going sit down in here to have lunch with Brely... “what we having for lunch” or “what they cook today”? She did not have to sit in the lunchroom. It was just an
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amazing time and it’s something I’ll never forget for the rest of my life. How will the movie “Sparkle” be different from the original film. I heard there was going to be a modern twist to it. It is a remake of an original movie. There are differences however being that this is set in the 60’s this time. It is also in the city of Detroit so there’s some differences as far as the timeframe. It will affect the clothing, the hairstyles, the music.. it will affect all of those things. I think the audience is in for a big surprise. You can’t do a movie like “Sparkle” over. It was too grand to do it over. It was a classic, but a remake keeping the storyline loosely based on the original. The writer Mara Akil and her husband the director Saleem Akil were very cautious... it’s almost in tribute to that movie instead of doing the same movie. So I also read that you'll be in a David E. Talbert Production called "Suddenly Single". Tell us about that. Absolutely! The David E. Talbert Production... I’m so honored to have gotten the opportunity to work with him. One little sneak peek that they don’t know about that I do is I decided in 2011... October to be exact...because I went back and looked through my emails... I sat with my girlfriends and said I’d like to make a wish list. In October I said I would like to work with David E. Talbert so let’s go to his website and email him all of the things that I’ve done so far and just say I’d like to audition. I literally composed and sent an email that I don’t know if he ever got. So as I sit here and reminisce, I’m like oh my goodness isn’t that something that I put it out there in October 2011. Now here I am in February 2012 and it didn’t come from that email, but my agent had the opportunity to read for him and then actually land a role. That’s going to air in September on BET. It is a stage play that was shot for television. There was an amazing cast again... BeBe Drake, Isaiah Washington, Garcelle Beauvais, Marcus Polk who was just in Red Tails.. I’ve been surrounded by heavy hitters and I’m being a sponge in the room. How was it working with Isaiah Washington? Let me tell you something about Isaiah. He is a character when the camera isn’t rolling and when it’s rolling. He is so talented and he is so free with his gift. He can flex in the middle of the scene or do something you weren’t expecting and then off camera, he and BeBe will sit me down and tell me intricacies of this industry that I didn’t know.
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Live your Dreams Things that are very important as you get older as an actor. You need to know about your retirement...things you need to know about your health insurance. They wanted to make sure that I come into this industry and be well prepared financially and knowing how to structure everything now. I so appreciated that because they didn’t have to talk about those things with me, but they wanted to be sure that I knew about it and didn’t have to go their route and find out too late or late. So they definitely took me under their wing. I’ve worked up close with Isaiah Washington. I just can’t believe it. He was one of my favorite characters on one of my favorite shows but we won’t go there. What challenges do you face in Hollywood maintaining you integrity (if any) The challenges are far and wide and I believe that they do exist, however, they are deflected from me so often that I don’t realize that they’re really there. I’m blessed to work with a team of believers who are in position as my agent, as my PR. All the people who work for me they are able to pray and discern things before I even get them so a lot of what I would experience is deterred before it even gets to me. I am protected and covered in that way. Having a strong spiritual connection and really being led by the spirit in every project that I do, even when I don’t get a project, I’ve learned that when I go in to read for a role, I’m not going in to actually get the role.
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I’m actually going in as ministry opportunity so it doesn’t matter if they give me the role or not. It’s for the people in the room to see a little Jesus in me in that moment. So if they hire me great. If they don’t great because I was able to make a deposit. It’s kingdom work and I love it. Tell us about your Live Your Dreams-Live by Your Gift message. I’m traveling the country and I’m speaking and doing empowerment. I’m speaking to audiences and encouraging the young and the old to literally live by your gift. Live by that thing that you would do for free. Live by that occupation... I usually use cleaning houses because that is low on people’s totem pole... but somebody loves to do that and does it well. I believe that person has been gifted in that arena to start a business there and feed their family by that gifting. Mine happens to be entertainment, but somebody else’s could be making shoes. I don’t know, but I try to get my audience to get back to their original self before the world, parents, fear... before those things came in, you knew who you were as a child. I give practical ways on how to get back to your original self and then let’s move into changing the things around us to support living by your gift which will ultimately give you extreme happiness and decrease stress which makes you live longer. It’s an incredible journey for me because thank God, I’m coming into this realization earlier than most. As a child my parents would always say “what do you want to be when you grow up”. I would say “a singer”. They would ask me “what would your real job be”? I’d say “entertainer”. It was a longer word. They’d say no “where are you going to go
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Live By your Gift to make money”? So I would say “oh , Police officer” and they would say “Yes. She’s going to be a police officer”. Everything in my life did not point to being in law enforcement. Everything pointed to entertainment because I was the little girl sitting in the pew crying to go into the choir. I was coming home “mommy I want to be in the talent show”. I was coming home on Saturdays out front pulling girls in the neighborhood to be in a girls group. Everything was pointing to where I was going but my parents... and I always feel so bad when I say this part but I’m not dimming their light in any way, but perhaps they didn’t know. All they knew was get your education. Get your college degree, which I do have, and go get a job to support a lifestyle. I have been blessed with vision that you don’t have to do it that way. College is very important only because it teaches you that you can start something and finish it. I don’t know how many people start college and literally work in whatever they actually went to college for, but if we get back to our original selves, I think we would just live happier and the world would be a much better place to live. If someone wanted to bring you to speak who would they contact? Tweet @Onebenita Reach out on twitter @brelyevans www.brelyevans.com Do you have plans or aspirations to start a production company? At this time, it hasn’t been something that I have considered. This year I did put on my plate one more thing, actually two things I put on my plate. After being on set with Whitney Houston, she’d basically given me the blessing “Baby you can sing and you need to use your gift”. I’m an actor who can sing type thing and I had been in a girl group before, but she was like “no you have to still sing”. You can’t just sit on that gift. So I am in the process of recording a Christmas CD so that’s coming out. I am producing that in that way and this year I also decided that I wanted to try my hand at putting a producer hat on as far as short films and Christian based films are concerned. I am working closely with my drama ministry at my church. I go to Faithful Central and we have a phenomenal group of actors. We all work together and we are constantly putting out things for the church, but I know soon and very soon we’re actually going to extend our wings a little further so that’s who I’ll be working with. Those things are in the making but they’re a little bit pushed out, but the CD is up close and personal because December is staring me back in
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my face. I’m so nervous because I never sang solo. Every time I’ve sang it’s been with a group or singing background or something like that. I got the blessing and she pushed me out of the nest... Whitney did. So now here I go. I’m gonna spread my wings and sing some Christmas songs for you guys this year. We’ll be looking for that. I have a couple of quick silly questions. What is your favorite candy bar? My favorite candy bar is Twix. Not because I did the commercial. I like to eat the carmel first and then the cookie I do that too. One little known hobby that no one knows about. I invent things. I have a marketing degree and I even want to twist that a bit and call myself a reengineer. So I take things that are already working and I try to make them work better. I invent little gadgets...little different ways to do the same things that you do everyday and that’s kind of my little thing. I’ve never patented anything so I can’t tell you any of them but I have a book that I write these things in and one day I guess someone will pick it up and say Brely we’ll produce some of this stuff. So yeah- I’m an inventor I enjoyed speaking with Brely and she inspired me to keep pushing and living my dream. Reach out to her for graduations or youth conference to encourage the young and old to live our dreams and live by our gift. Look for Brely in "Sparkle", pick up her upcoming Christmas CD, and watch for her in the future on the big screen.
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Pastor Charles Jenkins Pastor Jenkins: today.
I appreciate you talking to me
Bianca: Oh you don’t understand how big of an impact that you all have made with your new song. Pastor Jenkins: Oh really? Bianca: Yes. I was at the Stellar Awards PreShow and when you all sang it there, I was like oh I’ll be downloading that tonight. Pastor Jenkins: Oh so you got it first Bianca: Yeah, so I’ve had it for a while. It’s a great song Pastor Jenkins: Thank you so much I appreciate that. That’s incredible. Bianca: One of my friends came with me. She was at the pre-show too and she was like “Oh yes. Our church goes in on that song”. by Bianca Woodard During Stellar Award weekend we were introduced to a wonderful choir during the Pre-Show that filled the entire stage with young and old to sing a new single entitled “Awesome”. Everyone left that night with a card and an opportunity to download the single for free. I took that time out to do just that when I finally arrived at my hotel room at 4:00am. Pastor Charles Jenkins is the Pastor of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church. Pastor Jenkins is a classically trained musician from Florida. He’s married to Dr. Tara Rawls Jenkins and has two daughters. He won a Grammy for his song “You’ve Been a Friend” on the Israel Houghton & New Breed CD “Alive in Africa”. He is also deaf in one ear from an infection he had a result of swimmer’s ear as a child but he lets us know that “When I write a song or listen to music, I hear everything. From the musicianship, the lyricism, the song structure, changes, movements, chord progressions, and so it’s really a miracle that I can hear everything”. Pastor Charles Jenkins and Fellowship Chicago Live have a CD coming out in June entitled “The Best of Both Worlds”. Since that time in January, the single has taken off around the country. We recently had a chance to sit down with Pastor Jenkins to discuss his role in the choir, their new project and his road up to this point in ministry.
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We both had a good laugh about that Bianca: So tell us about your new recording “Pastor Charles Jenkins Presents Fellowship Chicago Live”. Pastor Jenkins: Well you know we are very excited about it. It’s called “The Best of Both Worlds”. It’s a combination of 1-3-5, hand clapping, foot stomping, good old fashion traditional gospel music and then it’s also worship music, CCM, praise &worship music. The whole idea around the project was to create singable, catchy, easy, relatable music that multiple generations can sing at the same time in church, in the car, at home, and radio friendly. So the entire album is a singable. You can start your worship with it. You can do it in the middle. You can clap your hands and stomp your feet on one song and then groove or lift your hands on another song. So, it’s exciting! Bianca: I know you spoke about merging the traditional with the contemporary at the Stellar Awards Pre-show so how were you able to accomplish that at your church and with the choir there. What advice can you give choir directors and ministers of music that struggle with doing just that- trying to merge the two? Pastor Jenkins: I think at the heart, it’s been a cultural commitment to respect the past while we expect the future. We celebrate where we’ve been while we embrace where we’re going. With music but also with theory and an idea, it’s been our
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The Best of Both Worlds
Bianca: What has been the response for the single that’s out now “Awesome” because it is a good song. I find myself singing it at my desk Yes I did break out in song at this point.
It’s really surreal. Bianca: To follow in Reverend Clay Evan’s footsteps... how awesome of a task has that been? Pastor Jenkins: It’s been lots of slices of humble pie. It’s been humbling. It’s been a significant honor. He’s a spiritual father, a dad, a coach, a mentor, and a hero. It’s been a great honor and it’s been tough at points. When I got to Fellowship, 75 to 80% of the church was 75 or his age. I was 24 so everybody was my grandmother or my grandfather. Change is not always easy, but I actually wrote a book about transitioning change. It’s called “Thriving in Change” and one of the things I learned as I followed him is that change is possible, but it must be taught and not just caught. You can’t just throw something new at people and say catch it. You have to teach it and spend time with people. It’s been an incredible journey.
Awesome
commitment to lead people of multiple generations to understand that we all belong to each other. We’re all sisters and brothers in Christ from the youngest to the oldest. We’re all God’s children and to teach practically the idea that generationally there might be different styles, there might be different approaches but there is one Lord, one faith and one baptism. We approach God with our presentations under that umbrella in the spirit of unified love and I think with this album...and so many of our churches have multiple generations, the idea is to say “Hey ya’ll. Let’s all sing together”. We wanted to create a record that people can sing on Sunday and beyond.
Pastor Jenkins: Sing it now! I got a spot for you..
Bianca: What are you all doing in regards to the release of the CD? Pastor Jenkins: We are looking at the early Bianca: So what’s the response been? summer and we’re looking at doing a massive Pastor Jenkins:The response has been crazy. album release celebration in Chicago. We’re also We have an amazing team of people. Traci Artis, looking to do several in other parts of the country Gwen Quinn, Heather Beverly, Carlton Jenkins. and get the church singing even more than we Even our music team Kevin Basser, Anita Wilson, already are all over the country. We’re looking to Rick Robinson and everybody’s feedback has been do some touring and get out during the summer that it’s been out of control. Our church’s phone and just share the music with people and give the lines have been blown up. Program directors have church some more to sing. sent to us that every time they play it, the phone lines jam. Churches from around the country and Pastor Jenkins is making an impact on the literally around the world have been sending us community with their “Legacy Project” and he emails. We’ve gotten tweets, videos of churches describe it as “ our holistic commitment to singing it. People have been all over twitter telling building people and building community”. They us what’s happening in London, what’s happening are revitalizing a 14 acre property in inner city in California. I think the most exciting thing for us Chicago that will create 400 new jobs. is not only has the single been multigenerational, it’s been multicultural. To book Pastor Charles Jenkins and Fellowship Live in your city, contact Traci Artis at I Hear Bianca: It does have that appeal to it as well. Music or taihearmusic@zoomtown.com. Pastor Jenkins: Yesterday I got a phone call from a friend of mine who has a friend who has a church in Palo Alto California. It’s a 10,000 member church with 60 different ethnicities in it and they wanted us to know how impacted they were by the song. They’re playing the single in their sanctuary as they’re preparing for worship. Bianca: Oh wow! Pastor Jenkins: So to hear that kind of feedback. To get hits from England and to hear that people over there are singing it and it’s just been out for seven weeks? It’s like okay.. what!
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The Dove Awards The 43rd Annual GMA Dove Awards will take place on April 19 at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta. The award show is produced by the Gospel Music Association (GMA) to offer the most comprehensive platform celebrating Christian and Gospel music. The awards ceremony will be nationally televised on GMC TV on April 24 at 8:00PM ET.
David Mann and Comedian Chonda Pierce to Co-Host the Dove Awards
Aaron Lindsey to Serve as Music Director
Live Performances by: Lecrae Natalie Grant Donnie McClurkin Jason Crabb Jamie-Grace Kim Burrell Kari Jobe The Isaacs “American Idol� Break-out Stars Danny Gokey, Ruben Studdard, Mandisa & Jason Castro YOLANDA ADAMS THE TENORS TEDASHII Montell Jordan Tamela Mann Page 30
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Dove Week Activities
See you at the Dove Week activities. Make plans to attend in Atlanta Georgia! bwoodard@tekoagospelmusicnews.com
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Dove Award Nominees Song of the Year
Artist of the Year
Alive; Natalie Grant; Bernie Herms, Nichole Nordeman; Birdwing Music/Bernie Herms Music/ Birdboy Songs (ASCAP) Blessings; Laura Story; Laura Story; New Spring Publishing (ASCAP), Gleaning Publishing (ASCAP) Celebrate Me Home; Perrys; Joel Lindsey, Wayne Haun; PsalmSinger Music (BMI),Universal MusicBrentwood Benson Songs/Hefton Hill Music (BMI) Glorious Day (Living He Loved Me); Mark Hall, Michael Bleecker; My Refuge Music, Word Music, Sony/ATV Tree Publishing Hold Me; Jamie Grace; Jamie Grace Harper, Toby McKeehan, Christopher Stevens; Universal MusicBrentwoodBenson Tunes (SESAC), Songs of Third Base (SESAC) I Smile; Kirk Franklin; Kirk Franklin, James Harris, Terry Lewis, Fred Tackett; Aunt Gertrude Music Publishing LLC (BMI), Hoceanna Music (ASCAP), Universal Music Corp. (ASCAP), Avant-Garde-Music Purblishing (ASCAP), EMI Music Publishing (ASCAP) I've Been Here Before; Ernie Haase & Signature Sound; Ernie Haase, Joel Lindsey, Wayne Haun; PsalmSinger Music, Universal Songs, Hefton Hill, Ernie Sig Sound Music (BMI) Please Forgive Me; Gaither Vocal Band; Gerald Crabb; Chestnut Mound Music (BMI) Who Am I; Jason Crabb; Rusty Goodman; Playin' TAG Music (ASCAP) Your Great Name; Natalie Grant; Krissy Nordhoff, Michael Neale; Two Nords Music (ASCAP), Integrity's Praise Music (BMI)
Casting Crowns Jason Crabb Laura Story Lecrae The Isaacs
Male Vocalist of the Year Chris August Chris Tomlin Jason Crabb Kirk Franklin Steven Curtis Chapman Female Vocalist of the Year Francesca Battistelli Kari Jobe Laura Story Mandisa Natalie Grant Group of the Year Casting Crowns David Crowder*Band Gaither Vocal Band NEEDTOBREATHE The Isaacs
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New Artist of the Year Beyond The Ashes Dara Maclean Jamie-Grace Royal Tailor The City Harmonic Producer of the Year Bernie Herms, Brown Bannister Ed Cash Ian Eskelin Michael Sykes Wayne Haun Rap/Hip Hop Recorded Song of the Year Hallelujah; Rehab Deluxe Edition; Lecrae; LeCrae Moore, Charles Cornelius, Joseph Prielozny, Nelson Chu; Reach Records Intoxicated; Genesis Snapshots; JayEss; Jalil Saheeb, Deborah Oluyemi; Zoe Records Please Don't Let Me Go; Outta Space Love; Group 1 Crew; Manwell Reyes, Pablo Villatoro, Andy Anderson, David Garcia;Fervent Records Riot; Backlight; Tedashi; Tedashi Anderson, Derek Johnson; Reach Records Overdose; Rehab: The Overdose; LeCrae, Torrance Esmond (Street Symphony); Reach Records Rock Recorded Song of the Year Dark Horses; Vice Verses; Switchfoot; Jonathan Foreman, Tim Foreman; Credential Recordings/ lowercasepeople/Atlantic Faceless; Until We Have Faces; Red; Anthony Armstrong, Rob Graves, Jasen Rauch, Mark Holman; Essential Records Invisible; Horseshoes and Handgrenades; Disciple; Ben Glover, Kevin Young, Brad Noah, Rob Hawkins; INO Records One Day Too Late; Awake; Skillet; John L. Cooper, Brian Howes; Ardent Your Love Is A Mystery; Crazy Love; Hawk Nelson; Hawk Nelson; BEC Recordings Rock/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year
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Dove Award Nominees Born Again; Born Again (Miracle Edition); Newsboys; The Write Bros*, Michael Tait, Wes Campbell; InPop Crazy Love; Crazy Love; Hawk Nelson; Hawk Nelson, Ian Eskelin, Tony Wood; BEC Recordings Drifting; TBA; Plumb with Dan Haseltine; Tiffany Arbuckle Lee, Matt Bronleewe, Dan Haseltine;Curb Records Lucy; Awake; Skillet; John L. Cooper; Atlantic/ Ardent Slumber; The Reckoning; NEEDTOBREATHE; Bear Rinehart, Bo Rinehart; Atlantic Records Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year Alive (MARY MAGDALENE); Music Inspired By THE STORY; Natalie Grant; Nichole Nordeman, Bernie Herms; WOW Joint Venture Blessings; Blessings; Laura Story; Laura Story; Fair Trade Services, LLC Hold Me; One Song at a Time; Jamie Grace; Jamie Grace Harper, Toby McKeehan, Chris Stevens; Gotee Records Someone Worth Dying For; A Beautiful Life; MIKESCHAIR; Benjamin Glover, Michael Alan Grayson, Samuel Anton Tinnesz; Curb Records Your Great Name; Love Revolution; Natalie Grant; Michael Neale, Krissy Nordhoff; Curb Records Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year All Things New; On Our Way Home; Nicol Sponberg; Carl Cartee, Jeromy Deibler, Ronnie Freeman, Jason Ingram; Curb Records Hope Of The Broken World; Hope Of The Broken World; Selah; Carl Cartee, Jennie Riddle; Curb Records I Surrender; New Day; The Martins; Chris Eaton, Joyce Sanders; Gaither Music Group I'll Take What's Left; Dreamin' Wide Awake; Doug Anderson; Joel Lindsey, Wayne Haun; StowTown Love Is a Cross; Faroe Islands; Russ Taff; Jesse Butterworth, Joy Williams, Regie Hamm; Spring Hill Music Southern Gospel Recorded Song of the Year Celebrate Me Home; Blue Skies Coming; Perrys; Joel Lindsey, Wayne Haun; Daywind If There Ever Was A Time; Together Again; The Crabb Family; Caleb Collins, Sue Smith; Gaither Music Group I've Been Here Before; Here We Are Again; Ernie Haase & Signature Sound; Joel Lindsey, Wayne Haun, Ernie Haase; StowTown Please Forgive Me; Greatly Blessed; Gaither Vocal
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Band; Gerald Crabb; Gaither Music Group Victory In Jesus; A Life Time of Music; John Hagee; Eugene M. Bartlett, Sr.; Difference Media Bluegrass Recorded Song of the Year Indescribable; Indescribable: Bluegrass Meets Worship; Chigger Hill Boys & Terri; Jesse Reeves, Laura Story; Daywind Let It Go; A Mother's Prayer; Ralph Stanley; Sara Evans, Billy Smith, Terry Smith; Rebel Records Mama's Teaching Angels How to Sing; Naturally; The Isaacs; Dottie Rambo; Gaither Music Group Precious Memories; Drive Time; Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver; JBF Wright; Crossroads Records The Water is Calling; Already Home; Marcy Each; Marcy Each, Lyn Rowell; Vine Records Country Recorded Song of the Year Dreamin' Wide Awake; Dreamin' Wide Awake; Doug Anderson; Joel Lindsey, Wayne Haun; StowTown Good Things Are Happening; Reach Out; Karen Peck & New River; Wayne Haun, Sonya Isaacs; Daywind I Get To; Expecting Good Things; Jeff & Sheri Easter; Wil Nance, Sherrie Austin, Steve Williams; Spring Hill Music Group, She Loved Music Pray About Everything; Breathe Deep; Guy Penrod; Bob Regan, Jeff Stevens; Servant Records Why Me; The Song Lives On; Jason Crabb (feat. William Lee Golden and Bill Gaither); Kris Kristofferson; Gaither Music Group Urban Recorded Song of the Year All I Need feat. Chris Lee; Captured; FLAME; Marcus Gray, Chris Lee Cobbins; Clear Sight Music Make It Loud; Make It Loud; Martha Munizzi; Martha Munizzi, Danielle Munizzi, Khristian Dentley; Martha Munizzi Music Sovereign King; From the Heart; Deborah; Deborah Oluyemi, Junior Williams; Zoe Records Sweeter; The Love Album; Kim Burrell; Kathy Burrell, Shanachie Records Window; Dominionaire, Canton Jones; Canton Jones; CAJO International Traditional Gospel Recorded Song of the Year God Is Great; Keep Living; Ricky Dillard & New G; John Lakin; Light Records Here Comes Jesus; Faroe Islands; Russ Taff; Chuck Cannon, Russ Taff; Spring Hill Music Hold On; Change The Atmosphere; Christ Tabernacle Choir; Wayne Haun, Steve Carey,
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Dove Award Nominees Matthew Garinger; Vine I Saw the Light; The Song Lives On; Jason Crabb; Hank Williams; Gaither Music Group Let the Church Say Amen; The Journey; Andrae Crouch; Andrae Crouch; Riverphlo Entertainment Contemporary Gospel Recorded Song of the Year He Has His Hands On You; Here I Am; Marvin Sapp; Stan Jones; Verity Records I Smile; Hello Fear; Kirk Franklin; Kirk Franklin, James Harris, Terry Lewis, Fred Tackett; Verity I'd Rather Have Jesus; The Song Lives On; Jason Crabb; George Beverly, Shea Rhea F. Miller; Gaither Music Group The Promise; The Journey; Andrae Crouch; Andrae Crouch, Luther Mano Hanes; Riverphlo Entertainment What I Have I Give; Treasures Unseen; Beyond The Ashes; Wayne Haun, Joel Lindsey, Depp Britt; Vine Records Worship Song of the Year Beautiful Things; Michael Gungor, Lisa Gungor; WorshipTogether.com Songs Glorious Day (Living He Loved Me); Mark Hall, Michael Bleecker; My Refuge Music, Word Music, Sony/ATV Tree Publishing Hosanna; Brooke Ligertwood; Hillsong Music Publishing I Give Myself Away; William McDowell, Sam Hinn; Delivery Room Publishing When the Stars Burn Down; Jonathan Lee, Jennie Riddle; UNIVERSAL MUSIC- BRENTWOOD BENSON TUNES (SESAC), JLEE PUBLSIHING (SESAC). Your Great Name; Michael Neale, Krissy Nordhoff; Integrity's Praise! Music (BMI), Two Nords Music (ASCAP) Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year Backlight; Tedashi; PRO, Alex Medina, Joseph Prielozny, Geeda, Cheesebeats, Dion (DFREE) Burroughs, Benjah, SKy, Street Symphony, DJ Official, PK ; Reach Records Captured; FLAME; Lamontt Blackshire, Andrew Ngariuku, Courtney Peebles, Stephen Towns, Abraham Olaleye, Derek Johnson, Alex Hitchens, Brandon Shockley, Dion, Burroughs, Alex Medina; Clear Sight Music Culture Shock; Jai; Demond Wilson, Adam Johnson, Jaime Williams, Brandon Camphor, Courtney Peebles, Will Stern, Aziel Gonzales, Steven Abramsamadu, James Morales, Gene Payton; Outlet Music Group
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Rehab: The Overdose; Lecrae; Lecrae, Torrance Esmond,Kadence, Tony “Stone” Shepherd, D-Flow (Thebrassman), Dunlap Exclusive, CheeseBeats, Joseph Prielozny, PK, DJ Official ; Reach Records The Whole Truth; D.A. Truth; JR C Peebles, Levin Wooten, Lee Jerkins, Jamal Mccoy, Eric Greene, IsRael Music, Darion Javon, Paris Jackson, Jeremy Ervins, Mark Mims, G.P, Joel Gurrero, Gabriel Ramirez, Manuel Ferrer, Napoleon Rincon, Jason Cruz, Jeff Adams ; 220 Entertainment Group/Xite Rock Album of the Year Control; Abandon; Christpher Stevens, Paul Moak, Josh Silverberg; EMI CMG Until We Have Faces; Red; Rob Graves; Essential Records Vice Verses; Switchfoot; Neal Avron; EMI CMG What I've Become; Ashes Remain; Rob Hawkins; Fair Trade With Shivering Hearts We Wait; Blindside; Mike Plotnikoff, Igor Khoroshev; Fair Trade Services, LLC Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year Ad Astra Per Aspera; Abandon Kansas; Mark Lee Townsend; Gotee Records Come Home; Luminate; Ed Cash, Paul Moak, Ben Glover; EMI CMG Crazy Love; Hawk Nelson; Ian Eskelin; BEC Recordings Mountains Move; Kristian Stanfill; Jason Ingram, Rusty Varenkamp; EMI CMG The Reckoning; NEEDTOBREATHE; Rick Beato, Greg Wells, NEEDTOBREATHE; Atlantic Records Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year A Beautiful Life; MIKESCHAIR; Matt Brownlewee; Curb Records Blessings; Laura Story; Nathan Nockels; Fair Trade Services, LLC Hundred More Years; Francesca Battistelli; Ian Eskelin; Fervent One Song at a Time; Jamie-Grace; Chris Stevens, David Garcia, Arch Nemesiz; Gotee Records What If We Were Real; Mandisa; Christopher Stevens, David Garcia, Dan Muckala, Chance Scogins; EMI CMG Inspirational Album of the Year A Man Like Me; Wes Hampton; Gordon Mote, Michael English, Nathan Zwald, Wes Hampton; Gaither Music Group
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Dove Award Nominees Captivated; Nicole C. Mullen; Ed Cash; Maranatha! Music Faroe Islands; Russ Taff; Jakup Zachariassen, Oli Poulsen, Niclas Johanneson, Kristoffer Morkore, ; Spring Hill Music God is Able; HILLSONG; Joel Houston, Reuben Morgan, Ben Fielding; Hillsong Music Australia Hope Of The Broken World; Selah; Jason Kyle, Todd Smith, Allan Hall, Bernie Herms; Curb Records Southern Gospel Album of the Year A Lifetime of Music; John Hagee, Michael Sykes, David Huntsinger; Difference Media Miracles & Memories; Bowling Family; Kathy Hannah; Big Ten House of Music Part of the Family; Collingsworth Family; Wayne Haun; StowTown Reach Out; Karen Peck & New River; Wayne Haun; Daywind The Song Lives On; Jason Crabb; Bill Gaither; Gaither Music Group Bluegrass Album of the Year A Mother's Prayer; Ralph Stanley; Ralph Stanley II; Rebel Records Family Chain; John Bowman; John Bowman, Ben Issacs, Jimmy Edmonds; Pisgah Ridge Grassroots Rambos; Rambo McGuire; Dony McGuire; Rambo McGuire Records Indescribable: Bluegrass Meets Worship; Chigger Hill Boys & Terri; Mark Dunham; Daywind Satisfied; Paul Williams & The Victory Trio; Paul Williams; Rebel Records Country Album of the Year Brighter One; Marshall Hall; Marshall Hall, Jay DeMarcus, Michael English; Daywind Dreamin' Wide Awake; Doug Anderson; Wayne Haun; StowTown Family Ties; Wilburn & Wilburn; Ben Isaacs; Daywind Going Places; Crabb Revival; Michael Sykes; Daywind New Day; The Martins; Jay DeMarcus; Gaither Music Group Urban Album of the Year Angel & Chanelle; Trin-i-tee 5:7; Steven Saxton, Andrew Scott, PJ Morton, Tito Ali, Stan Jones, Brendan Brady, Fred Jerkins III, Imani Pressley, Rockwilder & Flip, David Mullen; Music World Gospel Church on the Moon; Deitrick Haddon; Deitrick Haddon, Cordell Walton, Blaze, AJ Encore, Ebony Eugene Suber, David Haddon, Calvin Frazier, Fred
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Jerkins III, wowJones; Verity Gospel Music Group From Now On; Dawkins & Dawkins; Dawkins & Dawkins, Antonio Dixon, Osinachi Nwaneri; Light Records Something Big; Mary Mary; Jazz Nixon, Warryn Campbell, Matt Edwards, Gerald Haddon, LaMar Edwards; Columbia Records The Next Dimension; GI; Lamonte Harris, Curtis Langley, Marlon Anderson, Levi King, Tavis Simmons , Michael Clemmons, Derek Clark, Teraike Crawford, Joeworn Martin, Matthew Montgomery; BGA Music Group Traditional Gospel Album of the Year How I Got Over; Smokie Norful; Jason Tyson, Smokie Norful; EMI Gospel If You Didn't Know Now You Know; Norman Hutchins; Michael Bereal; Vicki Lataillade; Sueekey Entertainment/IR Music Group Promises; Richard Smallwood; Steven Ford, Richard Smallwood, Donald Lawrence, Daniel Weatherspoon; Verity Gospel Music Group The Legacy Project; John P. Kee; John P. Kee; Verity Records XV Live; Chicago Mass Choir; Percy Gray, Jr., Jeral Gray, Sr.; New Haven Records Contemporary Gospel Album of the Year Becoming; Yolanda Adams; Steve Bracey; N House Music Group Change The Atmosphere; Christ Tabernacle Choir; Wayne Haun, Kevin Ward, Steve Carey; Vine Records Committed; Committed; Deke Sharon, Ed Boyer; Epic Hello Fear; Kirk Franklin; Kirk Franklin, Shaun Martin; Verity Gospel Music Group Make It Loud; Martha Munizzi; Martha Munizzi, Daniel Munizzi, Khristian Dentley; Martha Munizzi Music Instrumental Album of the Year A Moments Peace, Vol. 3; Great Worship Songs Players; Christopher Phillips; Great Worship Songs (Universal Music Christian Group) Feedback; Derek Webb; Derek Webb, Joshua Moore; INO Records Inspirational Moods: Inspiring Hymns featuring Piano and Orchestra; Michael Omartian; Michael Omartian; Green Hill Productions Jesus Calling: Instrumental Songs For Devotion; Various Artists; Steve Ivey; Sparrow Records Unfailing Love: 20 Worship Songs of Comfort and Peace; Stan Whitmire; Stan Whitmire; Green Hill Productions
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Dove Award Nominees Childrens Music Album of the Year From The Inside out For Kids; Kids Choir; Matt Huesmann & Steve Ivey; Sparrow Records Great Worship Songs For Kids, Vol. 5; Great Worship Songs Kids Praise Band - Dale Mathews, Luke Gambill, Johnathan Crumpton, Stacey Willbur, Daniel Deffenbaugh, John Andrade; Great Worship Songs Groovy; Denver and the Mile High Orchestra; Denver Bierman, Jamie Statema, Darren Rust; Go Fish Kids Records Hosanna! Today's Top Worship Songs for Kids; VeggieTales feat. Mark Hall from Casting Crowns and Amy Grant; Scott Williamson; Big Idea Entertainment I Am A Promise; Gaither Vocal Band; Bill Gaither, Ben Isaacs; Gaither Music Group Spanish Language Album of the Year 25 Concierto Conmemorativo; Marcos Witt; Marcos Witt, Sergio González, Roberto Prado; CanZion De Vuelta Al Jardin; Christine D'Clario; Elijah Mosley, Integrity Music Dile Al Corazon Que Camine; Jacobo Ramos; Onis Rodriguez; Integrity Music Más fuerte que nunca; Coalo Zamorano; Coalo Zamorano, Chris Rocha, Mike X Zúñinga; CanZion Somos uno; Generación 12; Lorena Castellanos & Iván Contreras; CanZion Top 25 Cantos de Alabanza 2012; Various; Phil Sillas; Maranatha! Music Special Event Album of the Year Ashes To Fire: Songs of Remembrance and Celebration of the Passion; Greg Baggett, Dan Dean, Allie Lapointe, Bethany Case, Kelly Burton, Nick Robertson, Erin Maynor, Lauren Chandler, Maurice Carter, Mark Harris; Dave Clark; Maranatha! Music Medicine: Live At The Black Academy; Ruben Studdard, Jasmine Guy, Ann Nesby; Sam "Shake" Anderson, Curtis King; MCG Records Passion: Here For You; Chris Tomlin, Christy Nockels, David Crowder Band, Lecrae, Matt Redman, Kristian Stanfill, ; Nathan Nockels; Sparrow/SixSteps The Journey; Andrae Crouch; Luther "Mano" Hanes; Riverphlo Entertainment The Story; Matthew West, Leigh Nash from Sixpence None the Richer, Mark Hall & Megan Garret from Casting Crowns, Brandon Heath, Bart Millard from Mercy Me, Michael Tait From Newsboys, Blanca Callahan from Group 1 Crew,
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Lecrae, Chris Tomlin, Peter Furler, Mandisa, Todd Smith from Selah, Michael W Smith, Jeremy Camp, Dan Haseltine from Jars of Clay, Matt Hammit from Sanctus Real, Steven Curtis Chapman, Natalie Grant, Mac Powell from Third Day, Nichole Nordeman, Amy Grant, Francesca Battistelli, Darlene Zschech; Bernie Herms, Brown Bannister; EMI Provident, Word Christmas Album of the Year A Skaggs Family Christmas Volume 2; Ricky Skaggs, Buck White, Sharon White, Cheryl White, Molly Skaggs, Luke Skaggs, Rachel Leftwich; Ricky Skaggs; Skaggs Family Records Christmas Hope; Benjamin Utecht; David Grow, Brian Siewart, David Hamilton; Green Hill Productions Christmas in Diverse City; TobyMac featuring Leigh Nash, Owl City, Jamie-Grace, Nirva Ready, Maj, Bage Real, Liquid, Superherose, Arch Nemesis, Tim Rosenau, Toddiefunk, Byron "Mr Talbox Chambers"; Toby McKeehan, Christopher Stevens, Mike Woods, David Garcia, Victor Oquendo, SUPERHEROSE, Tre Corley, Arch Nemeciz, Tim Rosenau, Matthew Edwards, DOA Allen for the DESIGNATED HITTERS, Todde (toddiefunk) Lawton, Byron 'Mr. Talkbox" Chambers; ForeFront Records Irish Country Christmas; Craig Duncan; Craig Duncan; Green Hill Productions Oh For Joy; David Crowder*Band; David Crowder*Band; SixSteps/ Sparrow Records Praise and Worship Album of the Year 10,000 Reasons; Matt Redman; Nathan Nockels; EMI CMG Aftermath; Hillsong UNITED; Michael Guy Chislett, Joel Houston, James Rudder; EMI CMG And If Our God is For Us...; Chris Tomlin; Ed Cash, Dan Muckala; EMI CMG Ghosts Upon The Earth; Gungor; Michael Gungor, Lisa Gungor, John Arndt; Brash Music Make It Loud; Martha Munizzi; Daniel Munizzi, Khristian Dentley, Martha Munizzi; Martha Munizzi Music Musical of the Year Come and Adore Him; Dave Clark, Steve W. Mauldin;Lillenas Publishing Company Down From His Glory; Mike Speck;Lillenas Publishing Company Gone; Geron Davis; SpiritSound Music Group Love Won; Kenna Turner West; Daywind Mary, Did You Know? A Ready to Sing Christmas; Russell Mauldin, Sue C. Smith, Johnathan Crumpton; Brentwood-Benson Music
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Dove Award Nominees Publishing Youth/Childrens Musical of the Year Extreme, Songs for Modern Youth Choir; Cliff Duren, Johnathan Crumpton; Brentwood-Benson Music Publishing God of This City; Susie Williams, David Ebensberger, Luke Gambill; Brentwood-Benson Music Publishing Help! My Kids Have to Sing at Christmas!; Cherry Garasi; Lillenas Publishing Company The Amazing Grace Race; Celeste Clydesdale, David T. Clydesdale; Word Music The Great Christmas Giveaway; Celeste Clydesdale, David T. Clydesdale; Word Music Choral Collection of the Year A Brooklyn Tabernacle Christmas;Carol Cymbala, Jason Webb; Word Music Everlasting Praise 3; Mike Speck, Stan Whitmire;Lillenas Publishing Company O What A Savior; Dave Clark, Steve W. Mauldin; Lillenas Publishing Company Ready to Sing the Songs of Bill and Gloria Gaither; Russell Mauldin, Johnathan Crumpton; Brentwood-Benson Music Publishing When the Stars Burn Down; Travis Cottrell; Brentwood-Benson Music Publishing Recorded Music Packaging A Way To See In The Dark/Sp Ed.; Jason Gray; Joanna Dee; Joanna Dee; Jimmy Abegg; Centricity Music Burlap To Cashmere; Burlap To Cashmere; Theodore Pagano; Sean Mosher Smith; Chris Phelps; Essential Records, Jive Records Christmas In Diverse City; TobyMac; Jan Cook; Eddy Boer for Boerhaus; Lee Stephen, Ryan Lampa, Nick West; EMI CMG Leveller - Deluxe Box; August Burns Red; Invisible Creature; Ryan Clark; Jordan Crane; Cory Morton; Solid State Records This Is What We Believe/Deluxe; Aaron Shust; Joanna Dee; Joanna Dee; Laura Dart; Centricity Records
Crazy Love; Hawk Nelson; John Reuben; BEC Recordings Feed The Machine; Red; Erwin Brothers; Dan Atchison; Alabama Production Group; Essential Records I Lift My Hands; Chris Tomlin; Nathan Corrona; Nathan Corrona; Dustbrand Films; EMI CMG Miracles; Newsboys; TK McKamy; Josh Edwards; Revolution Pictures; inpop Records You Are More; Tenth Avenue North; Wes Edwards; Drew Langer; Ruckus Films; Reunion Records Long Form Music Video of the Year A Skaggs Family Christmas LIVE; Ricky Skaggs, Buck White, Sharon White, Cheryl White, Molly Skaggs, Luke Skaggs, and Rachel Leftwich; Matt Coale; Ricky Skaggs,Billy Paul Jones, and Charlotte Scott; RS Entertainment Inc.; Skaggs Family Records Fear Not Tomorrow; The Collingsworth Family; Curt Casassa; Jim Hammond; P&KC Music; P&KC Music Tent Revival Homecoming; Bill & Gloria Gaither and Homecoming Friends; Doug Stuckey; Bill Gaither, Barry Jennings, Bill Carter; Gaither Television Productions; Gaither Music Group The Song Lives On; Jason Crabb; Doug Stuckey; Bill Gaither; Gaither Television Productions; Gaither Music Group Yahweh; Hillsong Chapel; Luke Irvine; Joel Houston, Reuben Morgan, Ben Fielding; EMI CMG
Short Form Music Video of the Year 7&70; Chris August; Evan Kaufmann, Randy Peterson; Detail Film; Fervent Records A Thousand Generations; Sean Spicer with Tilly Cryar; Dustin Marcellino; Yochanan Marcellino; City of Peace Films; City of Peace Media As For Me And My House; John Waller; Dustin Marcellino; Yochanan Marcellino; City of Peace Films; City of Peace Media
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