- Gospel Synergy Magazine

September 2006
Tara Griggs-Mcgee
Judge for
International
Songwriting
Competition
J
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Details Inside
Plus: Smokie Norful 's
New Release -The Belle
Report- Gospel Zone Gloryland Gospel Internet Sells Booming Gospel Power.FM Top
Artist
Joe Pope
Glory To God TV
Attorney Joe Smalls
Gloryland Gospel .com
A Moment With
Seahawks star
Shaun Alexander
who says.......
Gospel Swap
Introduces
Contemporary
Christian
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Contents
I am your Creator. You were in my care even before you were born.
Isaiah 44:2a (CEV)
Volume 9 Number 9
September 2006
God doesn’t play dice.
Page 4
I observed that the basic motive for success is the driving force of
envy and jealousy Ecclesiates 4:4 (L B)
Page 6
Glory To God TV
The Man without purpose is like a ship without a rudder -- a
waif, a nothing, a no man. Thomas Carlyle
“Bringng The
Gospel Home To You”
Page 7
International
Songwriting
Competition
Judge Tara Griggs - McGee
Page 12
A Moment With
Seahawks Star
Shaun Alexander Who Says...
God has given us an awesome vision to be a blessing through our affiliate program which is unheard of in the gospel industry.We are offering
each and every person who signs up for our subscription to earn extra
income... God wants us to prosper! If you are planning a fundraiser
please consider Gospel Synergy Magazine. Our compensation plan and
system is fully automated. Details will be provided as we continue to be
obedient.
Page 10
Political Synergy
Page 23
The Belle Report
Sharing information about what going on!!!
Page 24
Gloryland Gospel
Introduces
Rev. Andrew Cheirs &
The Songbirds New Release
Page 26
Gospelpower.fm Playlist
The Best Independnet Gospel Music Online!
Add us to your favorites and listen as you surf or work on the
Net. Commercial Free gospel music 24/7.
Page 27 & 28
Page 21
Gospel Swap Playlists
List includes most requested and sold!
EMI Gospel Artists
Smokie Norful
New Release
“Life Changing”
We welcome your feedback please send to
[email protected]
Order Your Subscription online at
www.gospelsynergy.com
Page 2
PUBLISHER’S NOTES
Synergy is the essence of principle-centered leadership. It
is the essence of principle-centered parenting. It catalyzes,
unifies, and unleashes the greatest power within people.
What is synergy? Simply defined, it means that the whole is
greater than the sum of its parts.
The essence of synergy is to value differences-to respect
them, to build on strength, to compensate for weakness.
Synergy is almost as if a group collectively agrees to subordinate old script and to write a new one.
Value the difference in the essence of synergy-the mental,
the emotional, the psychological difference between people.
And the key to valuing those differences is to realize that all
people see the world, not as it is, but as they are.
The person who is truly effective has the humility and reverence to recognize his own perpetual limitations and to
appreciate the rich resources available through interaction
with the hearts and minds of other human beings.
Synergy works it’s a correct principle. It is the crowning
achievement of all previous habits. It is effectiveness in an
interdependent reality-it is teamwork, team building, the
development of unity and creativity with other human beings.
VOLUME NUMBER 9 NUMBER 3
Publisher/Editor Andr’e L. Carter
Webmaster - Andre A. Carter
Charlene Turner - Gosplelinks.com
My Pastor: Rev James T. Meeks
House of Hope of Chicago
724 E. 114 St. Chicago, IL 60628
Contributing Writers
Andr’e L. Carter, Shelle Belle
Attorney Joseph Smalls, Joe Pope, Jennifer Cooper,
Yolanda Young, C Webb, Rev. James Green,
Marketing And Promotions
www.rogmovement.com
Rogmovement
Cover Design
www.Fuzionifsolutions
Terrance Stuttle/Valeda Williams
Legal Advisor
Attorney Arthur Sutton
Photographer
One year subscription $20.00 USD
International $40.00
Allow 4-6- weeks for delivery. Please notify subscription
department of change of address.
Synergy is collectively working together but at the same
time each party maintains their own identity. There should
be more positive synergy in the body of Christ. It doesn’t
matter what assignment God gives each of us we are all
placed in an interdependent position. If you are a gospel Submission of manuscripts, illustrations, and or photographs
announcer brokering your time you are looking for spon- must be accompanied by a self-address envelope for the return
materials. The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited
sors and advertisiers to help pay for your time. If you are a
materials.
gospel artists you are interdependent on the gospel anReproduction
in
whole
or
in
part without written permission is
nouncers to play your music. We live in a world of
prohibited.
SNERGY, God has given each of us a dream.
It is up to us to put the correct pieces of the puzzle together
that will make our dream and vision a reality. Bottomline
we live in an interdependent world, in order to move to the
next level we have to position ourselves to maximize on
our positive synergy. God Bless!
Postmaster send change of address to:
Gospel Synergy Magazine
P. O. Box 286261
Chicago, IL 60628
The opinions expressed by the authors who contribute to Gospel Synergy Magazine are their own and does not necessarily
reflect those of Gospel Synergy Inc. All work is copy written. Reproduction of any material appearing in Gospel Synergy
Magazine without prior written permission is prohibited. However, any articles, photographs, graphics, or other mediums
accepted for publishing becomes the property of Gospel Synergy Inc, unless other reproduction rights, terms and conditions
are negotiated and approved prior to publishing.
Page 3
Joint Venture
Opportunities
We were happy to know that neither of
us gave up on our God given assignments. We were still paying our dues so
to speak. We decided to enter into a joint
venture agreement to help spread the
good news to the masses.
As we communicated we realized that
we had another mutual friend that we
were both communicating with at the
same time Attorney Joe Smalls. Owner
of Gloryland Gospel an Internet site that
is committed to the Quartet market. We
all have one thing in common we are all
Gospel Synergy Magazine was birthed Vietnam Veterans working for God.
in January 1998, during the time when
there was a recording or gospel event One thing lead to another, during the
going on in Chicago practically every conversation, we were trying to see how
weekend. It seemed like there was no we could all work together as one. Since
end to everyone wanting to get into the God had blessed each of us to work for
gospel music business. Community Him. We decided to come together to
Choir, Soloist, Quartets, and Church see what we could do. We were all doChoirs.
ing our individual business but decided
that we could do better if we were to
Things were going very well. I was mak- come together.
ing the rounds meeting many of the gospel music movers and shakers. I became We were able to touch and agree, check
a member of the Gospel Music Work- out Gloryland Gospel on page 24 for
shop of America as well as the Chicago information about Rev. Andrew Chears
Gospel Announcers Guild, which was new release. We are really excited about
a plus to be a part of.
our joint venture arrangement, being able
to cross promote each other to reach the
While at one of the GMWA conventions masses.
I met Joe Pope who was doing a gospel
program on a local access station in This arrangement will offer special proNewnan, GA. We had a lot in common, motional packages and give-a-ways durI decided to do an article in the GSM to ing the last quarter of 2006. So, be sure
be a blessing to my new found friend. to tell a friend! I believe when we take
We had lost contact over the years but the time to see where we are, as we conwe never gave up. In July of this year I tinue to strive for where we want to be
sent out emails to all of the Gospel Tele- it only makes sense to enter into joint
vision programs listed in the 2006 issue venture agreements.
of Gospel Round Up. The only response
was from my friend Joe Pope the owner In order to get my point across let me
of Glory To God Tv in Newnan, GA. say this. I responded to an email that I
He indicated that he would like to do received regarding the International
something for Gospel Synergy since we Songwriters Competition to be held on
were the first publication to feature him Oct 16th. I looked at it as being another
in print. For more information check out opportunity to get the name of Gospel
the interview on page 6.
Synergy out to the masses.
Page 4
After a few emails and phone exchanges
we were able to come to an agreement
that offered mutual benefits.
I looked at the email as being another
opportunity to attract the Christian market as well as introduce the Gospel
Swap, our online distribution service for
independent Gospel/Christian artists. I
made it a point to inform the person who
contacted me that we also program
music for GospelPower.fm an online
radio station where we play all categories of Gospel as well as Christian music. (See page 16)
We are in a numbers game! That’s the
bottom line and we are all going after
the same market. I said to myself, ”this
will be a great opportunity for the many
gospel songwriters to submit their songs
for an opportunity to win some serious
cash.” See page 7.
This is a very competitive business and
everyone is trying to get their share of
the marketplace. I guess what I am saying is working together collectively is
better than trying to do it alone. I would
also like to say that the new trend on the
Internet is Affiliate Programs, which offers any one and every one the ability to
generate extra streams of income. Once
you sign up for a one year subscription
to Gospel Synergy you can ask family
friends aand associates to subscribe and
earn extra income everytime someone
signs up using your URL.
Affiliate programs are the same as the
referral or lead programs where you are
compensated by using the best advertisement in the world - word of mouth!
In closing I would like to say that we
are looking at tremendous groth during
the last quarter. We are looking at all
opportunties to add to our free newsletter. As we continue to grow you will see
many new changes that will be added to
GospelSynergy.com
Starting Over With Nothing
The Pursuit Stage“ The Pursuits
(S.O.W.N.)
Stage is when you finally step out of
Dr. Robert J. Watkins
“...And he said, I will not let thee go,
except thou bless me.” Gen 32:26
What do you do when you are
starting over with nothing? What do
you do when things are not working?
There are four stages that every
person must go through in order to
see the promise of their vision. Let’s
determine your current stage:
The Purging Stage- This stage of life
is difficult. Life will seem to be out
of control. Friends will become
distant and the gossipers of your life.
Opportunities, finances and dreams
can seemingly dry up during this
stage. But let these things and people
exit your life. God needs to eliminate
the clutter in your life so that He can
get your attention! God is trying to
remove everything that is unhealthy
to your vision and preparing you for
more profitable pursuits. God needs
you to lead; therefore He will ensure
the pain in your heart heals.
The Placement Stage- After the
Purging Stage, you will find yourself
totally dependant upon God. This is
no other place to go. Banks, family
members, church members and others
will not be able to help you. Holding
on to God’s word becomes vital. In
some cases, people who have been
Christians for many years, finally find
themselves in God’s presence. It is
during the Placement Stage that your
vision becomes clearer. A new hunger
to please God and joy to help people
returns to your spirit. You are a little
older, a lot wiser and somewhat
bruised, but you know God is about
to place you in new positions that
only He can create for you. Don’t
quit, it’s time to pursue!
your comfort zone and accept the
challenge. Perhaps you create a new
catering company, or start the
magazine, or hold your first bible
study, or open a new store, or create
the website or send a proposal for
services to a Fortune 500 firm.
Whatever the case, you challenge
yourself to overcome your issues of
procrastination, fear or slothfulness.
It is a lot of hard work, but you
believe God will one day bless the
work of your hands. If you make it
to this stage, promotion is right
around the corner!
Under the leadership of Dr. Robert
Watkins, Kings & Priests Unlimited has
evolved into a global, multi-faceted
network of influential business and
ministry leaders.Affectionately known as
the “Minister of Business”, Robert has
dedicated his life to helping churches,
corporations and leaders maximize their
growth potential.
The Promotion Stage – This is
Testimonies
where God and people begin to notice
“Everyone associated with Kings &
your gifting. Your testimony
Priests are destined to be great
encourages others. As such, you have
leaders.”
new relationships, access to resources - Dr. John Maxwell, President &
and a divine revelation about who you Founder of the Injoy Group
are. All you have to do now is be
smart and consistent. Opportunities
“I thank God for Robert Watkins and
the vision of Kings & Priests. They
will seek you out. Your services,
are prepared to make a mark that
products, testimonials and presence
can not be erased.”
are in demand.
- Dr. Creflo Dollar, Pastor of World
Changers Church International
Sow and submerge yourself into your
vision. People will ask how did you
make it? You will respond, “I have
“I love the vision of Kings & Priests
S.O.W.N and I have reaped.” God’s
and proud to be associated.”
way to succeed is not always the
- Peter Daniels, President &
quickest way, but it is the surest way! Founder of the World Centre for
Entrepreneurship
Dr. Robert J. Watkins is the founder
of Kings & Priests Unlimited (KPI),
a global leadership organization of
Kings & Priests is needed in our
society today to be an example for
Christian CEOs, Business Leaders,
our young people.”
Pastors, Ministry Leaders and Young
Entrepreneurs. Based in Atlanta,
- Bishop Eddie Long, New Birth Ministries
Georgia, he is a multi-gifted
international speaker, best selling
author and leadership consultant
“Thank you Robert Watkins for
addressing issues that affect
filling a vital need in the Christian
Christians in the marketplace and the
business community.”
local church. For more information,
please visit www.ICanConquer.com - Donald Cathy, CEO of Chick-fil-A
Page 5
Glory To God Televison
“ Bringing The Gospel Home To You!”
I was going through the 2006 issue of
Gospel Round-Up Magazine knowing
that I would not be able to attend the
GMWA. I wanted to share with the labels and other businesses listed that our
magazine was now available on line 24/
7. I had sent out quite a few letters during the last week of July. On August the
forth, I got a call from Joe Pope someone I had met at a GMWA meeting in
1998. We had a great conversation recalling when and how we had met. We
were still here and this is what Joe shared
with me.
GS: Joe what has happened to you over
the years?
Joe: Well, I am now the owner of a Television station in Newnan, Georgia. My
mission for Glory To God Television is
to spread the Word of God through music and ministry.
GS: Has your vision changed any since
you stepped out on faith?
Joe: No, not really I just continued to
stay on course. The vision of Glory To
God Television is to utilize television
production and broadcasting as a means
to help bring about the Great Commission. We have and will work diligently
to promote God’s message of love, salvation and redemption. GTV-TV is
committed to bringing “Good News”
programming into the homes of viewers each day in hopes that it will touch
hearts and change the lives of those
watching. By sharing the Gospel of Jesus
Christ, we will help lead souls to Christ
all over the world.
GS: That’s great Joe, this is really good
news as well as and inspiration to hear
that you are doing so well.
Joe: Yes, God is in the blessing business!
Glory to God Television is a 24 hour 7
day a week Christian television broadcasting network established in 1998.
GTG-TV currently broadcasts to over
1.5 million households throughout Georgia and parts of Alabama. We are rapidly expanding into new markets continuously as we strive toward a worldwide vision.
I didn’t understand the vision at the time,
I eventually came to realize that the
glowing rain represented God being
transmitted through the airwaves via
Christian Television. The light beaming
into the universe from Newnan was
Glory To God TV and its programming
would inspire people all over the world
as people would be changed and transformed by the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
With no experience or training in television production or broadcasting, I
stepped out on faith to begin the journey toward realizing my God given vision.
GS: When did God give you this vision?
Joe: Do you have the time because it
may take a minute to share the vision
God placed in my spirit. It started in
1993, I had a vision from God that
Newnan, Georgia was sitting in the
middle of the world and a magnificent
spotlight was beaming up into the universe. The top of the light exploded into
a tremendous mushroom cloud that released little droplets that looked like
glowing rain. These droplets fell to the
earth touching and transforming people
all over the world.
In the vision I observed a man who was
working in his yard, he was touched by
a droplet of the anointed rain and was
immediately saved. The man ran into his
house and when his wife and children
came into his presence, the same anointing fell upon them and they were also
immediately saved . As the story progressed into the next day, each of the
family members went about their daily
lives. However, everyone they encountered was immediately saved through the
anointing. The father as he interacted
with his co-workers, the mother as she
strolled the isle of the grocery store and
the children as they walked down the
halls of their school. This powerful
anointing activated a domino effect that
rapidly spread all over the world.
Page 6
From one little VHS camcorder and a
one hour per day show on a local access
station. God has blessed me with a fully
staffed production office and studio
broadcasting 24 hours, 7 days a week.
It’s really all about Him, and He will continue to open doors... For Eyes Have
Not Seen, Ears Have Not Heard What
The Lord Has In Store For Me.
GS: That’s awesome Joe, I can relate to
every thing you have shared. I am sure
that God is up to something and we are
included in His Plan.
WWW.GLORYTOGODTV.COM
P O Box 625
Newman, GA 30264
770-253-8499 Fax 770-253-3830
Email: [email protected]
Earn extra income through
Gospel Synergy’s Affiliate Program
as seen on
Glory To God TV Tune In Today!
http://www.gospelsynergy.com/
members/?thankyou-page=415
International Songwriting Competition (ISC) Announces 2006 Judges – Enter Your Gospel,
Christian, And Holy Hip-Hop Songs Now!
http://www.songwritingcompetition.com
The International Songwriting
Competition (ISC) is now accepting
entries and is pleased to announce some
exciting new changes for this year. In
addition to adding two new categories
and many new judges, ISC has also
increased the cash portion of its Grand
Prize to $25,000 (US dollars), which
makes it the largest cash Grand Prize in
any songwriting competition.
ISC gives away over $150,000 in cash
and prizes, including an Overall Grand
Prize package of $25,000 (US) in cash
and over $20,000 in merchandise,
unmatched by any other songwriting
competition. ISC winners also benefit
from extensive press, publicity, and
increased exposure.
One of the most prestigious and
respected songwriting competitions in
the world, ISC welcomes original songs
from musicians, artists, groups, and
songwriters at every level from amateur
to professional. ISC’s Gospel/Christian
category includes all genres of traditional
and contemporary Gospel and Christian
music.
In addition to the Gospel/Christian
category, ISC offers 17 other categories,
including: AAA (Adult Album
Alternative), Americana; Jazz, Pop/Top
40, Rock, Latin, R&B/Hip-Hop, Folk/
Singer-Songwriter, Country, World
Music, Dance/Electronica, Instrumental,
Children’s Music, Blues, Lyrics Only,
Teen, and Performance. Entrants may
submit as many songs as they wish in
the same category or in multiple
categories.
ISC provides the perfect opportunity for
bands, artists, and songwriters to gain
more exposure and have their songs
heard by some of the most influential
members of the music industry. The
complete 2006 ISC judging panel
includes the following:
Recording Artists:
MercyMe; Tom Waits; Brian Wilson;
Sean Paul; Jerry Lee Lewis; John
Mayall; Cassandra Wilson; Robert
Smith (The Cure); Darryl McDaniels
(Run DMC); Macy Gray; Craig
Morgan; Mark Chesnutt; Rosanne Cash;
Frank Black (Pixies); Charlie
Musselwhite; Amy Ray (Indigo Girls);
Blue Man Group; Isaac Brock (Modest
Mouse); Medeski Martin & Wood; John
Scofield; Tiësto, Peter Hook (New
Order); and Jeff Stinco (Simple Plan).
Music Industry Executives:
Tara Griggs-Magee (Executive VP of
Gospel/Urban Music, Sony Records);
Charlie Walk (President, Epic Records);
Monte Lipman (President, Universal
Records); Mona Scott-Young (President,
Violator Records); Larry Willoughby
(VP A&R, Capitol Records); Dan
Storper (President, Putumayo World
Music); Thomas Brooman (Co-Founder/
Artistic Director, WOMAD); Angel
Carrasco (President of 605 Discos and
Sr. VP of A&R, Sony BMG Latin
America); Betty Pino (DJ, WAMR
Miami/Pioneer of Latin radio); Manolo
Gonzalez (Sr VP of Regional Mexican
A&R and National Promotion, Univision
Records);
Page 7
Bruce Iglauer (Founder/President,
Alligator Records); Cameron Strang
(President, New West Records); Steve
Lillywhite (Sr. VP of A&R, Columbia
Records/Producer - credits include U2,
The Rolling Stones, Dave Matthews
Band, and Peter Gabriel); Alexandra
Patsavas (Owner, The Chop Shop Music
Supervision - credits include The OC,
Grey’s Anatomy, Without A Trace,
Carnivale, Rescue Me); Barbara Sedun
(VP Creative, EMI Music Publishing
Canada); Danny Epstein (Music
Supervisor, Sesame Street/Sesame
Workshop); Emily Wittmann (VP, Nick
Records); Leib Ostrow (CEO, Music For
Little People); and Cory Robbins
(Founder/President,
Robbins
Entertainment).
ISC 2006 Sponsors include: ASCAP,
Epiphone, Berklee College Of Music,
Fishman, Sam Ash, Shure, D’Addario,
Hear Technologies, Cakewalk, Disc
Makers, Sonicbids, Musician’s Atlas,
Sibelius, Karian Studios, Planetary
Group, OnlineGigs, The Music Business
Registry, Mediaguide, ArtistMonitor,
Sleepless Media, Platinum Blue Music
Intelligence, Alphabet Arm Design,
Musician’s Atlas, George Stein, Esq.,
and Taxi.
Enter ISC online or download an entry
form to mail in your entry.
http//:www.songwritingcpmpetition.com
This shortsighted behavior, motivated
by a desire for instants gratification
and social acceptance, comes at the
By: Yolanda Young
expense of our future. The National
Permission to reprit (USA Today)
Urban League’s “ State of Black
2004” report found that fewer than
50% of blacks families owned their
These are tough economic times, es- homes compared with more than
pecially for African Americans, for 70% of whites.
whom the unemployment rate is more
than 10%. Alarming, rather than belt- According to published reports, the
tightening, the response has been to Ariel Mutual Funds/Charles Schwab
spend more. In many poor neighbor- 2003 Black Investor Survey found
hoods, one is likely to notice satellite that when comparing households
dishes and expensive new cars.
where blacks and whites had roughly
the same household incomes, whites
According to Target marketing, a savedd nearly 20% more each month
company that tracks black consumer for retirement, and 30% of Africans
spending, blacks spend a significant earning $100,00 a year had less than
amount of their income on depre- $5,000 in retirement savings. While
ciable products. In 2002, the year the 79% of whites invest in the stock
economy nose-dived; we spent $22.9 market, only 61% of African-Ameribillion on clothes, $3.2 billion on elec- cans do. Certainly, higher rates of
tronics and $11.6 billion on furniture unemployment, income disparity and
to put into our homes that, in many credit discrimination are financial
cases, were rented.
impediments to the econpmy vitality
of blacks, but so are our consumer
Among our favorite purchases are tastes.
cars and liquor. Blacks make up only
12% of the U.S. population, yet ac- By finding courage to change our
count for 30% of the country’s Scoth spending habits, we might be surconsumption.
prised at how far $631 billion dollars,
we now earn, can take us. Yolanda
Detroit, which is 80% black, is the Young’s next book is Spade: A Critiworld’s No.1 market for Cognac.
cal Look at Black America.
Tough Choices
for Tough Times
So impressed was Lincoln with the
$46.7 billion that blacks spent on cars,
the automaker commissioned Sean
“P.Diddy” Combs, the entertainment
and fashion mogul, to design a limited-edition Navigator complete with
six plasma screens, three DVD players and a Sony PlayStation 2.
Even on the Internet we send thousands of jokes through e-mails without a second thought, but when it
comes to sending messages regarding life choices, people think twice
about sharing. The crude, vulgar, and
sometimes the obscene passes freely
through cyberspace, but public discussion of decency is too often supThe only area where blacks seem to pressed in school and the workplace.
be cutting back on is spending is
books; total purchases have gone fro If you cannot preceive wholeness in
from a high of $356 million in 2000 others, it cannot manifest in you...
to $303 milion in 2002.
Page 8
Editors Note
This article appeared in the May/June
2004 issue of Gospel Synergy Magazine, As I was rereading the article I
decided to reprint it again. This article is as relevant today as it was
when it was first published.
The price of gas at the pumps as well
as a recent increase to take public
transportation in Chicago, is taking
its toll on the African-American communities. The question is where do
we go from here, when we are all
being effected just to live from day
to day.
There are issues and concerns that we
are trying to address in the African
American Communities not just in
Chicago but in every major and minor city across the nation. The war
and rumor of wars have been going
on for centuries and its not going to
change.
The Willie Lynch Letter is still alive
and well in 2006. We are still being
controlled and divided by our own
mind set through the media with slick
advertisement promotional campaigns.
There are a lot of intelligent African
American with great ideals, visions
and dreams the only thing that most
African Americans lack is the ability
to come together. The same money
that we spend making others rich
could be invested in building our own
businesses therefore we would be
able to create jobs for us and by us.
It will take much more than having a
materialistic mindset to move up to
the next level. It will take working
together through supporting each
other that’s the bottomline.
T.D. Jakes Resigns
from Bush-Clinton
Katrina Fund
Committee
Bishop T.D. Jakes, pastor of The
Potters House, has abruptly left a
Bush-Clinton Katrina Fund advisory
committee, alleging the input of the
committee’s members has been
ignored. Jakes, a co-chairman of the
Interfaith Advisory Committee, was
among several pastors who have
resigned since July 6.
A spokesman for Jakes said while
there are no plans for the bishop to
start a new nonprofit to help churches
impacted by the hurricane, The
Potters House will continue its efforts
in the area.
The fund responded with a statement
praising the pastors’ efforts and
vowing to continue efforts to rebuild Then the report comes in July that
churches on the Gulf Coast.
Bishop Jakes an a special committee
of Pastor’s are dropping out the
About $20 million has been
Bush/Clinton Relief Plan because
committed to rebuild Gulf Coast
nothing has been done since the comchurches. On June 30, the fund raised
mittee was set up?
the grant ceiling to $200,000 from
$35,000.
The big question is when will the real
The Bush-Clinton Katrina Fund was rebuilding plan take place? I was unstarted by former Presidents George der the impression that many jobs
Bush and Bill Clinton after the would be generated to rebuild the
devastating hurricane destroyed large Gulf Coast Area. Hummm I’m sure
portions of the Gulf Coast last it would have made a difference in
the economy as well as faith in the
August.
government.
The fund raises money for special
discretionary funds to be used by the So what’s next? I recently read an
governors of Louisiana, Mississippi article about a Hurricane victim. A
and Alabama.
young lady and three kids who are
about to lose the roof over their
www.bushclintonkatrinafund.org
head’s. This is a young lady displaced
[email protected] | 214-706by the Hurricane was provided a
7156
place to live in Palatine, IL. .
In a letter delivered to Katrina Fund
chairmen, the pastor stated, “I cannot
continue to participate in an initiative
Hurricane Relief...
that ignores my recommendations,
Broken Promises
decisions and opinions — and those
of my fellow committee members.” August has come and gone it was a
year ago when Hurricane Katrina
He continued, “I cannot provide the
ripped through the Gulf Coast. There
leadership that Presidents Bush and
may have been some relief to help the
Clinton appointed us to give when the
people who lost everything. For many
BCKF staff executes policies and
it will never be the same because
decisions independent of any
some can’t erase the memory of the
consultation with our committee or
devastation cause by Katrina.
its staff.”
Jakes’ letter specifically asked the
fund to “include some method of
verifying authenticity of each claim
before releasing any more funds.”
It was a hard fight but the Mayor of
New Orleans was reelected for another term. Some portions of the city
have been reopened . Now as we pick
up the newspaper or turn on the TV
we can hear the reports of the killings and other crimes that are being
committed after the storm.
Not much has happened after many
of the people left. I see nothing but
broken promises and man trying to
blame man for a act of God.
Page 9
We are entering the Hurricane season. There were some reports being
made that the Hurricane season is
going to be bad again this year. Could
it be that everybody is waiting to see
how bad the hurricane season is going to be this year and the rebuilding
process will begin in 2007? I guess
we will just have to wait and see!
Political Synergy +-=?
way.
This is a rough business, there are
many clicks and picks that feel that
the only way to make it in this business you have to deal with them on
their terms if you expect to make it. I
also believe that many artist just want
to sale their CDs from the trunk of
their cars because of the cost to market and promote their CD. Its easier
to depend on Hebrews 11:1 Faith is
the substance of things hoped for and
the evidence of things unseen. There
are many biblical scriptures that we
can referred to when we don’t make
a sale.
It has been said over the years by
many that the gospel music business
is worst than the secular market. With
the lies, deceit and lack of trust. The
Caravan’s says it all when they were
in the beginning days of their career.
During my time in the gospel music
business I have seen it all and I have
experienced it as well. First and foremost this is a business and everybody
is in it to be paid for their service. It
goes without saying, it takes money
to do ministry. We have all accepted
our assignment! Stepping out on
faith, depending on God to meet all
of our needs.
This is a business many artist are simply complacent because they have
We stepped out on faith not know- been forced into that position from
ing what to expect. It really doesn’t the hard knocks of the business. Many
matter many people will say what artist feel that they can sale more CDs
sounds good like Hold on God’s go- the traditional way by going from
ing to bless you or I will keep you in church to church always looking for
prayer. How many times have we that break that will get them a major
heard that as we walk away looking deal but then they go to the table
for the positive in the negative?
without an attorney to represent
them? Who can they really blame for
I guess you can say that’s just the way not going into a deal prepared. When
it is, even to get up and give a testi- the word tells us to study to be apmony about your trails and tribula- proved!
tion. No one knows what type of situation an up and coming minister may The other thing that bothers me is
be going through. No one knows when the artists is asked to pay to be
about the family issue that we are on a showcase and all of the promeach dealing with. I am listening to ises that certain individuals from the
Harvey Watkins and even in his song labels will be attending looking for
he talks about performing and not new artists. But they never show up?
getting paid. Or shaking the hand of I am sure that we all enter in to what
someone who doesn’t like you. He ever we are doing with all of the ingoes on to say that he has to love his tentions of honoring their word but
enemies the same as he loves his something always happens at the last
friends.
minute. Do I need to say more.
This is not an easy business never the
less we continue to press on against
all odds. It takes tough skin to deal
with the challenges that come your
Many times after an artists has been
ripped off by the negative energy in
the gospel music industry the artists
becomes more determined to make
it, so they do their own event on a
Page 10
shoestring budget and ends up putting themselves in more debt causing
more stress on their family, the group
as well as themselves.
The main problem, issue and concern
is most of the artist don’t have the
money to really compete with the
major labels. I see it all of the time
even when it comes to doing business
on the Internet. If I wanted to purchase an artists CD from the artists
site or online service the artist may
not have product, which means that
the online distribution service will not
have the product. Fulfillment is an
important part of the music business.
The music industry is changing and
now artist have a greater chance of
reaching the market place through the
Internet. That is also a concern because the majority of gospel artist are
still intimidated by the Internet. Why
because most of the artist refuse to
seek the knowledge to keep doing
what they are doing and if push comes
to shove take a computer coarse or
hire someone to show them the benefits the Internet has to offer.
There would be no need to verify how
many independent gospel artist sale
their music online through a download service because most don’t really understand the process and benefit. And on the other hand many
don’t understand that $.65 can add
up very quickly as long as you are
telling people where they can purchase your music online for a single
download.
It’s a new day and its time that we
change the way we think in order to
reap the benefits of the seeds that we
have sown over the year in our quest
to take our music to the masses.
Africans Look to Revive
Christiany in the West
of Evangelicals in Africa, told Reuters in
a telephone interview.
Dudley Pate, a Nairobi-based
Zimbabwean who works for British
organizationAfrican Inland Mission, says
African churches are obeying the biblical
command to spread their faith that is too
often ignored by modern Western
churches.
London, – While Christianity blossomed
in Africa in the 1800s through Western
missionaries, Africans are now bringing a
revival of mission back after being powerfully transformed. With church-going on
the wane in Europe, Africa’s vibrant Protestant churches are sending an array of
missionaries to the West to win souls and
revitalize shrinking congregations – an
ironic twist on the 19th century drive by
Western missionaries to convertAfricans.
According to African missionaries,
Western churches are too timid when it
comes to religion. “The church in the UK
has become shy about faith,” said Kenyan
minister Patrick Mukholi, employed by the
U.K.-based Anglican Church Mission
Society. “Maybe as African missionaries
we can encourage them to be more
exuberant about knowing God,” said the
priest, who worked in Mombasa before
moving to England, which he had never
visited before. African churchmen first
started moving to Europe and the United
States in the 1970s to minister to
immigrants mostly from their own
countries.
The international conference is now in its
15th year, establishing a reputation within
the Christian community — both in the
The African church is taking seriously U.K. and globally — and thousands of
Christ’s command that it takes the Gospel people from around the world attended
to all nations. Political correctness and the event.
complacency has stifled that in the West,”
he told Reuters. African missionaries – The conference brought together some
some backed by their own churches and of the most influential leaders, such as
some recruited by Western organizations KICC’s very own senior pastor, Matthew
Ashimolowo; Dr Dipo Oluyomi and
– boast of some success in Europe.
Bishop John Francis from the U.K.;
Nigerian pastor SundayAdelaja pioneered Bishop Eddie Long, Dr Mike Murdock,
the independent Embassy of God church Pastor Robb Thompson, Pastor Jamal
in Ukraine, delivering rousing sermons and Bryant and Marcus Lamb from the U.S.;
dancing in the aisles to some 25,000 and Pastor David Oyedepo and Bishop
mostly white members, making it one of Tudor Bismark from Africa.
Europe’s biggest churches. And Nigeria’s
Redeemed Church of God, which aims The event took place in a specially erected
to build a congregation within five minutes’ 12,000 seat-capacity tent, located at
drive or walk from anywhere in the world, KICC’s headquarters in Waterden Road.
has a branch in almost 40 European Since its inception, IGOC has witnessed
its numbers increase year after year, and it
countries.
is anticipated that at least 160,000 people
One of Europe’s biggest Evangelical were in attendance at this year’s
churches, in eastern France, was started conference.
by Africans and draws thousands every
This year’s conference, entitled Kingdom,
week.
Power and Glory,” focused on the
Israel Houghton, Martha
dominion authority of believers.
Munizzi to Lead Worship at
IGOC
But in the 1980s, African evangelicals –
including some Anglicans, Baptists,
Lutherans and Methodists – decided to
take a more systematic approach toward
reaching what they saw as an increasingly
Godless West.
London, England — Internationally
renowned gospel recording artists Israel
Houghton and Martha Munizzi lead
worship at the “International Gathering
of Champions” (IGOC) conference Aug.
20-27.
“We couldn’t just throw up our hands and
see these churches turned into nightclubs
or mosques,” Tokunboh Adeyemo,
former general secretary of theAssociation
The artists took the stage at Kingsway
International Christian Centre (KICC),
alongside gospel singer Judy Jacobs and
the highly praised KICC Mass Choir.
Page 11
Pastor Matthew commented on the event
saying:
“The International Gathering of
Champions challenged every believer to
rise up to a new level and declare victory
in every area of life where there has been
defeat. The believer’s heritage contains the
promises of God and we aim to make sure
every born again believer knows who they
are in Christ and the privileges that they
have in Jesus.”
A MOMENT WITH
platform to stand on to teach His Word.
Seahawks Star Shaun
Alexander Who says…
At Calvary Baptist Church, my church
home during college, there’s a church
service where they invite the entire
Alabama football team. It’s called “Hello
‘Bama” and the church invites former
players who are Christians to be the main
speakers for that service.
Seahawks running back Shaun
Alexander’s first book, “Touchdown
Alexander,” will be in bookstores Aug.
15. In it, the NFL’s 2005 most valuable
player talks about his life, his game and
his faith. Here is an excerpt, the final
chapter in the book, in which he
addresses what drives him spiritually.
Chapter 24: ON THE SHOULDERS OF
GIANTS
I understand what Isaac Newton meant
when he wrote those words.
It seems as if I’ve been able to do
outstanding things. But that’s only
because I too have stood on the shoulders
of giants. I’ve been surrounded by
excellent people and gained much from
them. My success is a result of knowing
them.
If I have seen farther than others, it is
because I have stood on the
shoulders of giants.”
Someone very wise once said, “Show me
your friends, and I’ll show you your
future.” I often quote this to others
because I believe it.Because of the
friends and the giants in my life, I’ve
learned two valuable lessons:
1. Trials lead us to great things. Too
many people don’t want to face the
hardships that come with life, but if we
want to reach the high levels in any phase
of life, we must go through the tough
times. I don’t like hard times or adversity
... but I admit that every difficulty that
has come into my life has made me
stronger. I believe that the heavy stones
on our backs can become the stepping
stones to get us to the next level. The
struggles are preparation to make us
what God wants us to become.
2. God really does give us the desires
of our hearts. That Bible verse, Psalm,
37:4, is the key point of my life.
I wouldn’t want to end this book without
saying more about the desires God has
put in my heart. These desires drive me.
They push me forward. They get me up
in the morning, excited to see what God’s
next blessing will be. I can boil these
desires down to two sentences.
First, I want to make an impact for God’s
kingdom. During my junior year in
Alabama, Sam Collins, a teammate of
mine, asked me to sign some T-shirts for
his cousin. I started to write only my
name.
“Why didn’t you write your favorite
Bible verse?” he asked. “Don’t you think
if you wrote it on there, everybody would
eventually read it?”
I had never thought of that before. Since
then, whenever I autograph anything I
always add Psalm 37:4.
That same year — on Aug. 30 — I
turned21. It was that day that God gave
me a
Page 12
Unlike many young men on their 21st
birthdays, who celebrate by partying
wild, I was one of the main speakers in
that church service. My speaking that
day has carried me into a higher calling
of proclaiming God’s Word.
And in March of 2003, I stepped up into
an even higher calling. That month
Pastor Casey Treat approached me and
said, “Shaun, I feel it’s time for you to
be ordained.”
His words floored me. I didn’t know how
to respond. I wasn’t even quite sure what
being “ordained” meant.
Pastor Treat explained that ordination
was an acknowledgment of who I am,
what I was already doing, and what I
would continue to do in the future. We
prayed together briefly, and I told him
I’d pray more about being ordained. And
I did pray — a lot. At one point, I felt
God ask me a tough question: Are you
ashamed of being ordained or of being
associated with Me?
I wasn’t ashamed, and I knew the power
of being obedient. I also trusted Casey.
He is one of my spiritual mentors. If he
felt I was ready to take such a step, I
accepted that God was speaking through
him and saying it was time for me to take
a leap forward.
So on March 13, 2003, I was ordained.
That night, Creflo Dollar, pastor of
World Changers Church International in
Atlanta, preached. He said that people
who don’t work on their own character
can be destroyed by their gifts:
“Everybody was created especially for
something. ... That is a gift, but if your
character isn’t strong enough to carry
your gift, that gift will destroy you.”
I listened intently to every word. His
message challenged me to use both trials
and victories as springboards to grow as a
man, a student, a husband, and a teacher.
Second, I want to develop Timothys — the
students of life — from all over the world.
That vision came from seeing the impact
FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes)
camps had on some of the high-school kids
when I was a huddle leader. Some of those
young men have gone forward for God and
are being used by Him today. I know I’m
not the only person who reached out to
them, but I was given the opportunity to
help them go in the right direction.
Here are two examples. First, when the film
“The Passion of the Christ” came out,
several of the Seahawks and I bought out
a local theater for three special showings.
That morning as I was praying, I felt God
say to me, You’ll meet a new little brother
today, and you’re going to mentor him and
teach him what to know.
“All right, God,” I prayed. “What does this
boy look like?”
God didn’t answer then, but I knew I’d find
the boy.
At the end of the film, a pastor stood up
and talked to those present who weren’t
believers. Several of us stood at the back,
available to speak further to anyone who
wanted to talk about the movie, God, or
anything.
A young man named RaViel came up to
me and started telling me about his cousin,
Kellen. I was enjoying our conversation
— and then it hit me. I knew.
loves God, and I believe that in the future
he will become a great leader in whatever
he undertakes.
The second example of a Timothy in my
life is a young man named Jordan Shimon.
He lives in a small town in Wisconsin. In
April 2003, Valerie [Alexander’s wife] and
I took a cruise from Florida to Cozumel,
Mexico. Jordan was also on the ship, on
spring break with his dad and little brother.
Val and I were on the deck one night and
people were sitting around, talking, singing,
and listening to music. We danced for a
while. I noticed Jordan sitting and watching
the grown-ups. I saw that he was the only
teenager on the deck.
Here we are on this big boat, I thought,
and food is everywhere. There are all those
arcades and dance areas downstairs, and
high-school girls are all around. Why is
he here watching his dad dance? After a
few minutes, I turned to him and asked,
“How old are you?”
“Sixteen,” he answered.
“Why are you here on the deck and not
downstairs with the high-school kids
playing video games and dancing and all
that?”
“It’s not my style,” he said.
He was extremely tall, so I asked, “Do you
play basketball?”
“Yeah, I play.”
RaViel probably thought I was crazy, but
I knew this was the boy God had sent my
way.
Our conversation ended, but I couldn’t
shake the feeling that there was something
about Jordan ... he had something about
him I liked. I kept wondering if God wanted
me to mentor him. “If I’m supposed to
relate to this kid,” I prayed, “then I’ll see
him tomorrow. I’ll pull him to the side and
talk to him.”
In the weeks following, RaViel and I got
together regularly to talk about life, God,
and the future. I taught him the value of
knowing the Bible and making wise
decisions in his life.
The next day, while Val had a massage, I
walked to the cafeteria. Just in front of me
in line stood Jordan, his brother, and a
couple of friends. We grabbed our food,
and I invited the boys to eat with me.
RaViel is now a sophomore in college. He
They wanted to know about me, so I told
“You’re him!” I said.
Page 13
them about my life, about who I was, and
about a couple of the big games I had
played in. As I answered, I had the sense
Jordan wanted someone to tell him it was
okay to be a man of God in today’s world.
We connected that day, and Jordan became
the newest Timothy in my life. That
relationship still continues. At least once a
month, I call him and give him Scriptures
to read.
Right now I have about 30 Timothys in
my life. I call them my little brothers, my
mentees ... and the future.
At the time of this writing, I am 28 years
old. Here’s the most valuable truth I’ve
learned in life: I am a blessed man.
I have been able to play professional
football. I’ve gotten to know some of the
spiritual giants of my generation, I’ve been
able to hang with some of those who have
made outstanding achievements, and I’ve
been able to achieve some of the greatest
honors — ones I never even thought about
gaining.
I am blessed.
... I have to laugh at how good God has
been to me. I love that His Word is 100
percent right — He does give the desires
of the heart to those who delight themselves
in Him. So I end with this: Every night
when I’m home, after I pray with my
daughters and kiss my wife good night, I
pause to thank God for giving me such a
blessed life.
And many times, like a coach talking to
his players, I’ve sensed God saying to me,
Shaun, this is only your first quarter. ...
Taken from “Touchdown Alexander.”
Copyright © 2006 by Shaun Alexander.
Published by Harvest House Publishers,
Eugene, OR. Used by permission.
CD Review
Warren Billings
Christian Music Ministry
Warren started his musical journey at
the age of 6 his grandmother stared
Music is universal and God blesses him out with a toy piano as she read
each of us with an assignment to him bible stories. He attends “The
spread the Good News through the Little Church In The Hills” in Mariministry of music. Daily we go about posa, CA were he loves to sing.
our business working on a nine to five
thanking God for the strength and Unable to afford the instrument to
health he has giving us. I received a join the school band my mother incall from Warren Billings a Christian formed me that I was going to be a
artist who saw my ad in the “Indie drummer because drum pads were
Bible”.
affordable... $10 per pad. Over the
He was calling to see if Gospel Synergy Magazine would review his CD
in our publication. We communicated
for about thirty minutes regarding his
project and the challenges of getting
his first project out to the masses. I
explained our service and agreed to
review his CD. Mr. Billings also informed me that he had visited the
Gospel Swap online distribution service because it covered all categories
of Gospel/Christian music.
Warren’s love of studying the Word
of God is what inspired him to write
music, in hope that others will hear
in the music what they may need and
bring comfort and enjoyment. Some
of the music speaks of hope, some of
the music is a prayer, and some give
joyful praise to God.
years I taught myself how to play the
drums, piano, guitar, later I began
performing at church and other
events.
I graduated form Stanislaus State
University of California with a BA
Degree in music. One of the most
difficult times was when his father
died of cancer and he was requested
to sing at his funeral
Through these experience and training, it seems clear that this is what I
am meant to do in life, ministering to
others through music. All of the instruments are performed by me on
this CD except the lead guitar that is
played by my friend Mike. Creating
inspirational music and serving the
Lord has been the most enjoyable and
fulfilling experience of all.
Mr. Billings made the decision to be
a part of all of service which also include Gospelpower.fm our 24/7
Internet Radio Station. I recieved the
CD with in a couple of days, added
his music to the Gospel Swap and
placed his CD into rotation on Gospel Power. I was a bit surprised, with
in a week City of Peace and Way Of
The Lord had recieved 5 star ratings. As I listened to the CD I could feel
the passion and love of the music that
I placed his music in our early morn- he was hearing in his head for the
ing show between 1am and 8am words that God placed in his heart.
becasue on the Internet your dealing From the beginning song Way Of The
with world wide listeners and differ- Lord to the last song, Song For Mom.
ent time zones.
Page 14
Christian Music Ministry is a modern
uptempo contemporary gospel CD
with beautiful soothing ballads that
offers a positive message and
extremely powerful lyrics that will
motivate your Spirit.
For more information you can visit
Warren Billings website online at
www.warrenbillingsgospel.com
Available for $.99 single downloads
www.gospelswap.com
Available online
www.cdbaby.com
Be sure to listen to
www.gospelpower.fm
Chicago’s #1Gospel
Internet Station
First En Sound Music Awards
Draws Larger Crowd
and
Patrick Lundy’s ministers of
Music Are Big Winners
www.ensoundentertainment.com
Newark, NJ — The 1st Annual En Sound
Music Awards was a complete success this
past Saturday evening. Held at the Robert
Treat Hotel and hosted by comedian RodZ
, the evening celebrated independent gospel
artists – who are often ignored by other
awards shows that cater to major-label
artists. Independent gospel artist, who
founded the En Sound online radio
network, came up with the awards concept
and bankrolled the event himself.
Lifetime Achievement Awards were handed
out to Margaret Allison of the Angelic
Gospel Singers who cracked the audience
up with her humorous acceptance speech
before delivering an astounding
performance that had everyone on their
feet. The Rev. Timothy Wright received the
same award but was a no-show, but
legendary radio announcer, Brother Don,
was there to scoop his up.
The big winners of the evening were Patrick
Lundy & The Ministers of Music (left) who
garnered three awards for Artist of the Year,
Album of the Year and Song of the Year.
Chiquita Green walked away with two
awards for Best Urban Soul Album and
Best Jazz Performance, the latter being a
tie with Jazz Guitarist, Kevin Turner. “I
Love New York” jingle singer, Roz
Esposito, won best inspirational song of
the year for “Healer of Hearts.” Her cowriter, Steve “Hollywood” Gaspar sent
Souden a note of praise afterwards. “I just
wanted to send you a quick note to
congratulate you on a wonderful event
Saturday evening,” he wrote. “You should
be very proud.”
Album of The Year
In The Fellowship
Patrick Lundy & The Ministers of Music
Artist of The Year
Patrick Lundy & The Ministers of Music
Best Urban Soul Album
Let Go - Chiquita Green
Best Female Vocalist
June Rochelle
Best Group/Duo Female
Witherspoon
Best Group/Duo. Male
Ordained Praise
Best Holy Hip Hop Recording
Crossing the Jordan - God’s Fam
Best Jazz Performance (A Tie)
Full Circle Chiquita Green
His Eye is on the Sparrow
Kevin Turner
Best Male Vocalist
Ernest Pugh
Best Reggae Album
His Way - Chevelle Franklin
Choir of the Year
John Tillery & Living Sacrifice
Best Inspirational Song
Healer of Hearts/ Written by Roz
Esposito & Steve Gaspar - Roz Esposito
Song of the Year
In The Fellowship - Written by Patrick
Lundy - Patrick Lundy & Ministers of
Music
Traditional Gospel Performance
No Doubt In My Mind
Bubba Johnson & The Omega Singers
If you missed it... You in fact missed the
indie star-studded event of the year and one
Media Contact: Bill Carpenter at
of the best gospel music events of 2006.
[email protected] or 202-636-7028
Congratulations to all!
Congratulations Delroy, 2007 Ensound Radio Awards event will be even better!
Andr’e L. Carter Editor - Gospel Synergy Magazine
Page 15
Patrick Lundy & The Ministers of Music
(PL & MOM) debuted in November 1994
and represent the realization of a Godinspired vision on the part of FounderDirector Patrick P. Lundy to assemble a
group of spirit-filled and anointed talents
committed to spreading God’s Word
through song. The Choir consists of some
of the most outstanding vocalists and
musicians in the Washington Metropolitan
area, many of whom are choir members,
choir directors or ministers of music in their
home churches and/or ordained ministers
for the gospel.
In addition to ministering in local churches,
for federal agencies and community
organizations, PL & MOM have appeared
on Black Entertainment Television’s
“Bobby Jones Gospel”, at the John F.
Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
and at Gospel Music Workshop of America
Convention and Board Meetings. The
Choir has also traveled throughout the
United States and abroad to Lisbon,
Portugal, where PL & MOM represented
the United States at the 1998 World’s Fair
and toured The Bahamas in July 2000.
Additionally, the Choir rendered special
music at the Senate Family Thanksgiving
Celebration in 2001 and participated in the
2002 Tribute to Black Gospel Music at the
White House. PL & MOM have been
blessed to appear with virtually all of
gospel’s foremost national recording artists
including: Yolanda Adams, Milton
Biggham, Bron Cage, Shirley Caesar,
Beverly Crawford, Kirk Franklin & The
Family, Donald Lawrence & Tri-City
Singers, John P. Kee and New Life
Community Singers, and Dorothy
Norwood. We thank the Ensound listeners
for their support of our music ministry.
www.gospelswap.com Introduces
Christain/Country Gospel Artists.
Aired on www.gospelpower.fm
Page 16
The Synergy of Gospel Music
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Page 17
International initiative
underway to provide
life-changing Internet
radio programming to
listeners worldwide
®
An international initiative is underway
to provide high-quality, life-changing
Internet radio programming to listeners
worldwide through The Praise House,
Inc., a media outreach ministry with a
global mission to glorify God, reach out
to lost souls and spread the gospel of
Jesus Christ all over the world.
Station Founder and President James
Green said, “People log onto
www.thepraisehouse.com daily to hear
life changing messages of unending hope
and unconditional love as it is found in
having a personal relationship with Jesus
Christ. Our responsibility to them is to
inspire, educate and empower this global
community on spiritual matters, health
wellness and financial responsibilities.”
Brother Green and Station Vice President
Tarryl “Brother Tee” Rosier joined
forces about a year ago to launch The
Praise House, though the project has
been in the works for quite some time.
Hours of prayer, research, planning and
soul searching led to its birth, said Green.
Now, God is moving the station at a rapid
pace in its growth and expansion.
“For us it is not about the money,” he
said citing Matthew 28:18-20. “It’s
about Jesus and his ministry. I want our
listeners, advertisers, and supporters to
know that we are also here to bring joy
to people who are hurting in the body of
Christ.
We want them to know the truth about
God, the truth about their health and
finances, and we want them to put their
trust in God.”
Gospel Artist take
note this new frontier is the cutting
edge; distribution
will never be the
The Praise House offers programming
same. An indepenand advertising opportunities for pastors,
dent gospel artist
outreach ministries, Christian business
can now move
leaders, organizations and others at a
their product all
fraction of the cost most would expect
over the world in
to invest for quality programming and
service. For example, the rate for a 15 one spin. Embrace this new technology;
minute broadcast is $50 and a 30 second and support Internet broadcast, Internet
commercial spot can be contracted for Distribution and Internet music on de$15.
mand. www.spiritco1.com
In addition, The Praise House offers
unique opportunities for ministries and
businesses to network with one another
through The Praise Network
(www.thepraisenetwork.com). The
network exists to inspire, educate and
empower its members to pursue
entrepreneurial excellence in a manner
that reflects the glory and grace of God,
our heavenly Father and our Lord and
Savior Jesus Christ.
“We believe that ministries will go so
much farther when they have businesses
working with them,” said Green.
“Everything we are doing is not us. It’s
not me … its God. It’s about what he
wants to do.”
Dr. E. L. King
24 Hour Gospel Radio Station
“Nugo” Belleville, Illinois
Listen Now
http://www.surfnetwork.com
You can download & upgrade our
free player and hear music and
other good gospel music on radio
station NuGo
For more information, visit The Praise
House online or contact the station.
www.praisehouse.com
When Music
and
Technology Meets
By: Henry Harris
President Spirit Communications
Spirit communications is a Christian,
owned and operated communications
company based in Oxon Hills, MD.
Our Mission is to provide real-time
and recorded faith based messages
and music to be heard through any
Internet connection worldwide.
Page 18
Rev. Reginald Marshall
www.24hourgospelnetwork.com
The time has come for the Gospel
Music Industry to get with the program technology is here and we need
to move with the signs of the times
For the struggling artist looking for
airplay let us help you... If you are an
artist or know of an artist visit us
online for submission information.
We would love to hear from you!
THIRD ANNUAL KRAFT
GOSPEL TALENT SEARCH
WINNER CHOSEN DURING
MEGAFEST 2006
-Grand Prize Includes $25K, a
performance at the Georgia Dome,
and an Opportunity to be the Opening
Act for Mary Mary at a Major
Concert —
July 24th, (Atlanta, GA)
Charloette Embry, of Raytown, MO is
the grand prize winner of Kraft’s Third
Annual Gospel Talent Search, a nationwide competition showcasing the best
undiscovered gospel talent in America.
Charlotte received $25,000, an opportunity to open for the Grammy Award-winning gospel duo Mary Mary, and got to
share the stage with some of the biggest
names in gospel during the during the
Mega Fest closing concert on July 22nd
at the Georgia Dome.
“I think being a part of the Third Annual
Kraft Talent Search will definitely be a
life-altering experience,” said
Charlorette. “ I never thought I would
have a chance to perform for so many
people, including some of my favorite
gospel artists, and I’m grateful to Kraft
for providing this incredible opportunity.”
Ten finalist competed at the Georgia
World Conference Center during
MegaFest 2006 in Atlanta. The Kraft
Gospel Talent Search was hosted by
gospel singer Byron Cage and Myra J of
the Tom Joyner Morning Show. The
competition’s judges -- gospel recording
artists, Mary mary; Dr. Teresa Hairston,
Founded and CEO of Gospel Today Today Magazine; Tara Griggs-Magee, Executive Vice President of Sony Music Entertainment; and kim Drayton, Project
Manager for Metroplex Economics Development Corporation - patrtnered with
Kraft Foods to evaluate and encourahe
these aspiring gospel artists.
Fnalist for the Third Annual Kraft Gospel Talent Search included: Towanna
Campbell of Little Rock, Arkansas,
Charolette Elaine Emory of Raytown,
Missouri; Latrece Lynn Haynes of St.
Louis, Missouri; Patricia Mathhison of
Louisville, Kentucky; Douglas McHenry
of Cleveland Heights, Ohio; Marva
Mortley of Brooklyn, New York, Sonya
Newson of Arlington, Texas; Raychell
Richard of Gretna, Louisiana; and Angela Wells of Dickinson, Texas.
The grand prize winner of the Second
Annual Kraft Gospel Talent Search
(2005), Angela Blair, has has as eventful year following her win. An independent artists, Blair just released her new
Cd, “A Time for Love” and recently performed during the 2006 Essence Musical Festival in Houston. Additionally,
Blair has partnered with fitness guru
Donna Richardson-Joyner to perform for
her new fitness DVD, “Sweating in the
Spirt II.”
“Joining forces with MeghaFest made
this a particularly wxciting year for the
Kraft Gospel Talent Search, and each
participant showed an incredible amount
of talent - making the competition
tougher than ever,” said Yolanda Angulo,
Director of Multicultural Market, Kraft
Foods. “Kraft applauds the hard work,
spirit, and talent of our winner, the finalists, and all who entered submissions
and voted in this year’s competition.”
Page 19
The Third Annual Kraft Gospel Talent
Search was open to U.S. residents, 18
years of age or older. Entries for the competition were received by March, 16th.
For more information, please, please visit
www.kraftfoods.com/gospel
About Kraft Foods
Kraft Foods is the world’s second-largest
food and beverage company. For more
than 100 years, we’ve been dedicated to
helping people around the world eat and
live better. Hundreds of millions of times
a day, in more than 155 countries,
consumers reach for their favorite Kraft
brands including Kraft cheeses and
dinners, Jacobs, Gevalia and Maxwell
House coffees, Oscar Mayer meats,
DiGiorno pizzas, Oreo cookies, Ritz
and Wheat Thins crackers and chips,
Philadelphia cream cheese, Milka and
Côte d’Or chocolates, Honey Bunches
of Oats cereals, Good Seasons salad
dressings and Tang and Capri Sun
refreshment beverages. They’ve also
started adding our Tassimo hot
beverage system, South Beach Diet
line and a growing range of better-foryou Sensible Solution products to their
shopping baskets, continually expanding
their list of Kraft favorites.
About MegaFest
MegaFest 2006, July 19 – 22, it’s more
than you think! Bishop T.D. Jakes
combines his popular ManPower and
Woman, Thou Art Loosed with the
Mega Youth Experience, MegaKidz,
and star-studded entertainment at
Atlanta’s top venues — the Georgia
Dome, the Georgia World Congress
Center, the Philips Arena and the
International Plaza. MegaFest 2006
general admission conference seating in
the Georgia Dome is free in the evening.
An Interview With
Unique
“It Ends”
In a short span of time, Unique has gone from an unknown
artist to an award-winning lyricist. Recognized for his
remarkable songwriting by VH1’s Save the Music, his hit song,
“It Ends” was awarded #3 in the Christian/Gospel category,
and gave fans a glimpse into the mind of a true artist.
GS: Where did your inspiration come from?
Unique: My inspiration came from the way I was raised and
listening to some of the industry’s finest, LL Cool J, Jay-Z, and
Mary J. Blige, to name a few, I was doing my thing on the
mainstream circuit without compromising the integrity of my
lyrics. I was mastering my abilities of storytelling, I guess it
GS: When did you start singing?
was my creativity and raw talent that landed coveted gigs
Unique: I was fortunate enough to discover my talent at a young opening for acts Fabulous, Jagged Edge, and the Ying-Yang
age, I first began throwing the industry a life preserver during Twins.
my high-school years. I was really intrigued by the art of GS: Are you ready to spread the good news through your music?
freestyling than school itself, so I spent many days outside of
the classroom honing my craft. It wasn’t long before everyone Unique: Yes, I’m willing and ready to accept the controversy
stated calling me, “the dude who never cursed but could still that comes with appealing to a wide range of people, I’m striving
spit fire!” Thus began my love for lyricism.
towards a goal that is unparalleled to my counterparts. I will
deal with the judgment of others, my objective remains clear:
GS: How was you raised?
Overall, I just want my presence in the rap game to tell a story
Unique: I was raised in the church, I began as a gospel rapper. of its own. I want to show people that you don’t have to smoke,
I was aggravated yet motivated by the condition of the rap drink, get locked up, or abandon your children… I want to
game, I turned my back on the stereotypical lyrics that plagued redefine the term street credibility.
the industry, I made the decision to take my talent in the opposite
direction. I’m not oblivious to the fact that seduction sells, but
with the current state of this world, there’s so much more to
rap about than money, whips, and women. This is something
that I learned firsthand.
Unique is another gifted artist coming by way of San Diego,
California. He definitely is making a joyful noise with his single
release “It Ends” that is getting air play across the country. If
you would like more information about this dynamic new artist
you can visit him online at www.myspace.com/unique
GS: So what happened to make you go in the opposite direction? With an aggressive soulful sound, it’s obvious that Unique
Unique: At the age of 25, I had already experienced the pain is well on his way to creating his own Happily Ever After.
that accompanies a failed marriage and the frustration that comes
with chasing a dream. It was a very humbling time in my life,
here I was… alone, literally with a dollar and a dream, living on
the streets. The only thing I could hang onto was the belief that
my struggle would in some way, prepare me for what I am
purposed to do. I defied adversities and capitalized on my life
experiences using them as a platform to prepare myself for
future successes. “It Ends” is the song that gave me a first
head nod from music executives, who were inspired by my
struggle.
Page 20
If you would like to book Unique for an event contact
Candice Dorsey
C-Ya Public Relations
“The New Face of PR”
www.c-yapr.com 636.373.1357
[email protected]
EMI Gospel Artist
Smokie Norful
To Release New CD
“Life Changing”
On October 3rd
New York, NY — Grammy Award-Winning Artist Smokie Norful will release his
third full-length CD, Life Changing, on
October 3, 2006. Considered the “Voice of
Inspiration,” Smokie Norful once again lives
up to his name by delivering work that is
expressive, heartfelt, and passionate. The
new project is a regeneration of the EMI
Gospel artist, and was inspired by a series
of life-changing events that have taken place
in Norful’s life over the past few years: fatherhood, pastoring a rapidly growing
church, and experiencing musical success.
“Since reconnecting with ministry and the
true nature of my call (preaching), I have
literally seen life change…in a wonderful
way!” states Norful, while discussing the
genesis of the project. “For me, this project
is truly a rejuvenation of Smokie Norful. It
is part of a series of events that have been
life changing for me. I hope that listeners
will be inspired to be better…to do
better…to worship better…as a result of
these songs.”
Life Changing will not only delight current
Norful fans, but will create a legion of new
ones, as it is infused with Norful’s renewed
passion for songwriting—containing
musical selections ranging from praise and
worship to traditional to urban pop. Norful
has teamed up with new business partner
and co-writer, Jason Tyson to form the new
company, “One Word Productions,” which
will focus on songwriting and production.
Tyson also co-wrote more than half of the
Life Changing project.
Once again, Norful collaborates with
producers Tommy Simms, Percy Bady, and
Cedric and Victor Caldwell, all of whom
worked on his 2004 Grammy Awardwinning sophomore CD, Nothing Without
You. Bady wrote Um Good (pronounced
Mmm…Good), the quirky-titled but
compelling first single from the forthcoming
10-track release. Additional songs featured
on the project include the piano-driven
ballad Run Til I Finish written by Norful;
the traditional I’ve Decided to Make Jesus
My Choice; and the Caribbean-influenced
Great and Mighty (produced by Bady).
Life Changing also includes the Tommy
Simms-produced Where Would I Be, a
contemporary, mid-tempo ballad; and the
upbeat, praise and party song, Celebrate,
another song penned by Norful. The diverse
singer/songwriter also includes a rendition
of the Whitney Houston hit, Run To You
(from The Bodyguard film soundtrack)—
changing the lyrics to focus the attention
on his ability to run to God for restoration
and strength to face whatever challenges
life sends.
To promote the new CD, as well as share
his ministry with a broad audience, Norful
will launch the “Worship & A Word”
promotional tour this fall. The idea for
“Worship & A Word” was created by
Norful to integrate his music and preaching
ministries, and will be held at various
churches across the country. The
promotional appearances will consist of a
message from Pastor Norful, as well as a
musical performance featuring selections
from Life Changing. Target markets
include New York, Atlanta, Chicago,
Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Baltimore,
Dallas, Nashville and Washington, DC, and
several others.
The acclaimed, multi-talented artist has
been successful since entering the gospel
music scene four years ago. Since the
release of his Gold-certified debut CD (and
smash single of the same name), I Need
You Now (June 2002),
Page 21
Norful has never left the Gospel charts. His
follow-up sophomore CD, Nothing
Without You, debuted at #1 when released,
and has remained on the sales charts since
its release in 2004. It is now approaching
Gold status. Norful has earned numerous
awards, including a 2004 Grammy Award
for “Best Contemporary Soul Gospel
Album;” three of gospel music’s Stellar
Awards; two of Christian music’s Dove
Awards; three Gospel Music Excellence
Awards; and many others. He was named
“Gospel Artist Of The Year” for 2003 and
2004 by the industry’s top trade publication,
Billboard magazine. Norful ended last year
as the fifth best-selling artist of 2005
(following only behind the likes of Kirk
Franklin, Mary Mary, Yolanda Adams and
Donnie McClurkin—all of whom released
CDs the same year).
In addition to touring in music venues and
churches throughout the country, Norful has
made numerous personal performances.
Most notable was his performance for
President and First Lady Laura Bush at the
White House last year. He has also
journeyed internationally, traveling on a fivestop South African tour, in support of the
“Save Africa’s Children” campaign. The
well-spoken music artist has also made
several national television performances,
including the BET Awards, Soul Train, the
CBS Morning Show and others. He has also
been featured in a host of print publications.
Norful—a husband, father and music
artist—is now pastor of Victory Cathedral
Worship Center—one of the fastest growing
churches in the western suburban
community of Bolingbrook/Romeoville,
Illinois (outside Chicago). The ordained
minister started the church in Fall 2005 and
has seen a continuous increase in worshipers
every week—now amassing a membership
of close to 1,200…and still growing.
No man ever became great by
imitation…Life Changing proves Smokie
Norful is forging his own path in today’s
ever-changing gospel music world and living
up to his God-given call to inspire others to
achieve greatness.
For more information,
www.smokienorful.com.
go
to
DARIUS BROOKS BARES IT ALL
WITH NEW RELEASE “MY SOUL”
Chicago, IL – April 4 th, GRAMMY
Award winning songwriter / producer
Darius Brooks releases his best
yet…”MY SOUL.”
This true
renaissance man places it all on the line
as producer, artist, songwriter and label
owner for the world to experience the
bearing of his soul in a moving and
inspiring musical journey.
The career of Darius Brooks spans over
two decades and includes songwriting,
accompanist,
production
and
arrangement credit for a myriad of
Gospel luminaries that include Shirley
Caesar, Vickie Winans, Ricky Dillard,
Daryl Coley and the famed Rev. Milton
Brunson and the “Tommies”, as well as
R&B icons Aretha Franklin, Lou Rawls
and Stevie Wonder to name but a few.
For over eight years Brooks has been the
Musical Director for Jesse Jackson’s
Rainbow PUSH Coalition.
MY SOUL features classics including
the title track originally recorded by
Donnie Hathaway in 1970 (Thank You
Master, For My Soul), along with two
songs close to Darius’ heart “Lord I
Believe”, written by Percy Bady and
“Thank You,” both from his eighteen
year tenure with the late Rev. Milton
Brunson and the Thompson Community
Singers. This project would not be
complete without the ballads that have
become the signature of Darius Brooks,
for this reason he adds “Trust You
More,” the first single released from the
album and “Healed Heart” which is also
featured on jazz legend Ramsey Lewis’
“With One Voice” (2005). The hardhitting, contemporary track “Put Your
Hands Up,” produced by Steve “Stone”
Huff (Zomba) can go undetected on
R&B / Hip Hop stations around the
globe, but the commanding message of
adoration to GOD sets it apart.
“Survivor” inspired by the nation’s
recent wave of natural disasters, meant
to encourage and uplift those affected by
the tragedies. Brooks pulls out all the
stops to create an eclectic mixture on this
project that appeals to a wide range of
listeners.
With this collection of songs from MY
SOUL, Brooks is sure to continue
blazing a trail that is on the heels of the
acclaimed success he received for YOUR
WILL. The title track and hit single
placed Brooks and his backup ensemble
SDM at the 2004 Stellar Awards with a
performance and nomination for
Contemporary Choir of the Year. YOUR
WILL has found it’s place among the
timeless hits already in Darius’ repertoire
including: “Safe in His Arms,” “My
Mind’s Made Up,” “For the Good of
Them” and many more.
Brooks’ MY SOUL release schedule
already includes performances on Praise
The Lord (Trinity Broadcasting
Network), Singsation (WGN the
Superstation) and the Bobby Jones
(WORD Network). SGN The Light
(Atlanta, GA) served as radio host for
the on-air release party on the K.D. Bowe
Morning Show, syndicated in 45
markets. He has also interviewed with
both the BeBe Winans and Donnie
McClurkin Radio Shows along with
other stations around the country.
Today with great satisfaction Brooks
releases MY SOUL on Journey Music
Group (JMG) where he is President and
CEO. He has a full staff and a state of
the art recording studio, DebDash
(named after his wife Deborah and twoyear old daughter Dasha). MY SOUL
is the first of three projects to be released
on JMG in 2006 and is distributed by
KOCH Entertainment.
KOCH Entertainment is the leading and
Page 22
fastest-growing independent music and
video company in the U.S. and its
operations encompass record and video
labels and distribution companies in the
U.S. and Canada. KOCH Entertainment
is the market leader among independents
in both the U.S. and Canada and its
record labels had the largest number of
Billboard charting albums among
independents in 2004/2005.
For more information, please
contact:
Shea Howell
Marketing Director
Journey Music Group (JMG)
7630 W. Madison
Forest Park, IL 60130
708-366-9770 office
708-366-9870 fax
[email protected]
In Stores
Every Where
In Heavy Rotation
5 Star Rating
On
www.gospelpower.fm
My Soul
Put Your Hands Up
Life Keep Living It
5 star rating on
Playing the best independent
gospel music online.
The Synergy of Gospel Music
Urban Choice Media takes
over ABC’s Rejoice Musical
Soulfood By Sheilah Belle
Atlanta, GA —
Urban Choice
Media takes
over
ABC’s
Rejoice Musical
Soulfood Gospel
Music format
effective…
TODAY, July
31st.
As for Willie Mae
McIver, (left) who
has basically been
the darling of
ABC’s Musical
Soulfood, she has
truly landed on her
feet. She was
recently named and
promoted, Vice
President of programming for the Urban
Choice Media group.
Initially all of the ABC Gospel staff had
been fired, but thanks to Urban Choice
Media, it looks like everyone will be heading
back to work today.
This means that the ABC staff of Rejoice
Musical Soulfood, Gospel Music will still
hold on to their jobs, because there are
new owners and the format will remain
the same.
Urban Choice Media consists of five
young men who realized the seriousness
of losing ABC’s Rejoice Station and
decided to do something about it. They
are Atlanta based, CEO Travis Mitchell,
who is basically leading the group,
Satellite Network Operations, Mike
Chandler (left), Larry Lee, who is based
in Ft. Pierce FL, who also has a couple
of stations in Florida, Philadelphia native,
Loren Mann and Ronald Reaves out of
Baltimore, MD.
Chandler says, all of Urban Choice Media
staff, announcers will eventually have the
opportunity to become part owners of the
new company through stock options. Our
goal is to look out for our employees down
the road as well.
However, while today is just the
beginning, this also marks a monumental
moment, as the African-American
community gains a bit more leverage in
control and owning a piece of the
airwaves. Chandler says, “As we start
transmitting from our new studios from
Irving, Texas, we are ready for whatever
God has ahead of us.”
of spiritually uplifting moods.
While individuals like Kirk Franklin,
Mary Mary, Vickie Winans, CeCe
Winans, and a few others have found a
way to get their music played on newly
formatted radio stations other than Gospel
Music stations; the new innovative gospel
style of Doc McKenzie and the Hi—Lites,
“What You Gonna Do For Him?” CD will
open up new musicals roads for Gospel
quartets. This creative style of music and
the arrangements are being introduced by
Doc’s new producer and manager Stu
Gardner.
Be sure to tell a friend about Gospel
Synergy Magazine as we will be making
new improvements as we enter the third
and forth quarter of 2006. You can expect
to recieve more news regarding new
releases and other news regarding the
gospel music industry. For more
information about what’s goning on in the
gospel industry visit:
www.myspace.com/thebellereport
Doc McKenzie and the HiLites Gear Up Florence, SC
—
Doc McKenzie and the Hi-Lites have a
new CD that’s being released – “What You
Gonna Do For Him?” A seasoned veteran
in this business Doc says “ This is our
best compilation yet”! Mr. Stu Gardner
(musical director for The Cosby Show, A
Different World, Living Single and Little
Bill) has lent his creative talents (producer,
composer extraordinaire) to our new CD.
The combination of Doc’s musical
experience joining forces with the musical
genius of Mr. Gardner promises to be an
historical mind blowing, blessing in
disguise!
Doc says, “We are introducing a new
sound, Integrative Gospel Music (IGM).
IGM is the combination of R & B, soul
music, country, jazz, gospel and classical
musical flavors to create a smooth form
Page 23
Sheilah Belle has worked in the field of
broadcast news, journalism and with the
press for over 15 years. She currently holds
the title as News and Community Affairs
Director and Talk Show Hostess for five
50,000 watts FM radio stations in Virginia,
including the top Urban Radio Stations in
Richmond and Norfolk, VA . Ms. Belle is also
a contributing editor and columnist for
Streaming Faith, Gospel Today, Gospel
Truth, Gospel International and XII
Magazines. Ms. Belle is also the host for the
brand newsThe Belle Report, radio show,
that now airs in four different markets. Ms.
Belle, was also recently tapped as the
Program Director for WTBC Gospel, one of
the largest on-line gospel internet radio
stations. Ms. Belle has worked as a News &
Helicopter Reporter, Health Producer, and
Talk Show Hostess from New Orleans to New
York for television, radio and print media. She
owns Ma & Popop Productions, Inc., The
Gospel Times Newspaper, The Belle Report,
LaBelle & Associates (a PR, Promotions and
Marketing company) and works as a Media
Consultant. Ms. Belle is now a highly
requested speaker as she continues to grow
her ministry to inspire and uplift others. “My
vision is to help abused women, give singles
encouragement and remind the teens that
it’s okay to love the Lord and not be ashamed
of it,” says Belle
New Release
Randy Polk shares the lead duties with
Rev. Cheairs on Run On. Rev. Cheairs
is one of the best balladeers in gospel
music today. This song, with a powerful
message, showcases that talent.
Who can forget the Rev. Andrew
Cheairs and The Songbrids’ classic
recording “Move For The Lord.”
Well, Rev. Andrew Cheairs and The
Songbirds are back and ready to
minister to you. Their new CD is titled
Make Up Your Mind. Scriptures
reference for this exciting project are
Joshua 24:15 and I King 18:21. In
Joshua we are told “ But if serving the
LORD seems undesirable to you, then
choose for yourselves this day whom
you will serve, whether the gods your
forefathers served beyond the River,
or the gods of the Amorites, in whose
land you are living. But as for me and my
household, we will serve the LORD.”And
in I King “Elijah went before the people
and said, “How long will you waver
between two opinions? If the LORD is
God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow
him.” But the people said nothing.”
All Right was written by Harvey
Watkins, Jr. The song simply says no
matter what is going on in your life, it
will be All Right. This ballad will have
you in tears. This fact is confirmed by
seeing many in the congregation wiping
their eyes. What a great song.
project. Secondly, you will notice that the
group has stayed true to their roots –
Traditional Gospel Quartet Music. And
probably more importantly, you will realize
that this project really ministers to you.
This new CD and DVD are bound to place
Rev. Andrew Cheairs and The Songbirds
in greater demand for concerts. You do not
In other words, it is time to Make Up Your
want to miss them when they are ministering
Mind who you will serve. The Songbirds
in a city near you.
give us twelve (12) songs that clearly
minister to you in a manner that will have Over the next twelve days we will review a
you realizing that there is only one choice different song from the project. Starting
to make and that is choosing to serve our August 1, 2006, a clip from a different song
Lord and Savior. As you listen to this new will be added through August 12, 2006.
CD, you will conclude that “God Will
Provde” and that “Living For Jesus” is the The songs right thing to do.
We begin with “My Last Time” – a very
powerful song and a great song to begin
this live recording. This song immediately
lets you know that you are in for an
awesome live recording. The song is
everything you would expect from The
Songbirds.
Get ready to clap your hands and start
rocking from side-to-side with the
Songbirds as they remind you that “God
Will Provide.” This is the second track on
this project. It is one of the songs that will
cause you to want to ‘see’Rev. Cheairs and
The Songbirds performing it on stage. So,
One of the first thing you will notice when don’t be surprise if midway through this
you put this CD or DVD into the player
song you stop the CD and start playing the
is the energy that the group brings to this DVD.
This is the Songbirds’ fourth nationally
released project. In 1997, they released Live
In Mississippi. In 1999, we were treated
to more of the Songbirds with the release
of He Will Provide. In 2003, they released
one of their best recordings to date – I’ve
Been There. And now in 2006, they bless
us with the release of Make Up Your Mind.
This project, like several of the previous
ones, was released on the group’s own label
- Emmanuel Records.
Page 24
The tempo picks back up with Down
Through The Years. Rev. Cheairs’
Church choir joins the group in the
singing of this song. The choir adds a
heighten dimension to this song. This is a
great example of how a choir can in fact
compliment a gospel quartet group in the
rendition of a song.
The title track, Make Up Your Mind, is next.
The song is actually a challenge to all
nonbelievers and backsliders to do the right
thing - make up your mind to turn your life
over to God and serve God now.
Anjelina Cheairs takes over lead duty on
It’s A Blessing. With much finesse she
rejoice in the knowing that it is a blessing
just being in the service one more time.
No Wrong is divided into 2 tracks. This is
one of those songs in gospel music that
will never grow old. Although previously
recorded by The Songbirds, this live
recording has a freshness to it that just
enhances your appreciation for the song.
This song also showcases Rev. Cheairs’
storytelling ability.
To purchase your copy of this CD or DVD
Contact Emmanuel Records, 1665 Jason
Way City, Byhalia, Mississippi, 38611, or
Maurice Cheairs, VP of Emmanuel
Records, at (901) 412-1140, or Ebony
Myles, Director of Marketing and
Promotions, call (419) 236-3579.
For More Quartet information
visit
www.glorylandgospel.com
Concerts - Seminairs
& Events
September 2006
Urban Network’s Northwest
Music Explosion
Site/Date TBA
Contact: Lin Woods
314-389-6848
Featuring workdhops
and live performances
www.urbanministries.com
www.northwestmusicmusicexplosion.com
September 4-8
126th National Baptist
Convention, USA, Inc.
Dallas, TX
215-474-5785
Vendors, music and ministry
Est. Attendance 25,000
National Missionary Baptist
Convention of America Annual
Session
Wilshire Grand Hotel
Los Angeles
Host: Pacific Missionary
Baptist District Association
Host Pastor: Dr. Lovely Haynes
310-349-0232
Vendors, Music and ministry.
888-773-2888
Reservations informations
Dr. E. Wayne Gaddis
323-733-7423 or 213-761-4102
September 4-7
National Baptist Convention
of America
Phonix, AZ
Rev. Stephen Thurston
214-942-3311
Vendors, Music and Ministry
Est. attendance 40,000
September 14-16
3rd Annual Virginia GAG
Conference
Site: TBA
Features workshops and
nightly musicals.
Contact: 804-775-6990
Est. Attendance 1,000
September 20-23
Dorinda Clark - Cole’s
Singers and Musicians
Conference 2006
Greater Emmanuel
Institutional Church of
God In Christ
19190 Scheafer Hwy.
Detroit, MI
Features:
workshops, guest speakers
and recording sessions
Info: 866-744-song
Do you have an event that you
would like to place for details
call - 708-272-6640
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New York, NY — Gospel Superfest “Live
In New York” will be held at the Christian
Cultural Center in Brooklyn, NY Friday
and Saturday October 27th and 28th,2006
A special pre-sale for individuals wishing
to get choice seats early has been
established to accommodate the early
birds!
Tickets
are
on
sale
at
www.ticketmaster.com , then go to the
Gospel Superfest pre-sale page, and type
in the password “Super”. You can get
great seats early before the general public
on sale date of July 14, 2006. Listeners
to our media partners, and web partners
will also be privy to this info as well. The
Pre-sale will last 7 days and then here we
go!
Page 25
Co-Sponsors include, Blackberry
Records, Axiom Records, Tyscot
Records, Rejoice Musical Soul Food,
The Belle Report and The Word
Network.
Official Hotels
The Double Tree - JFK (headquarters),
718-322-2300 The Hampton Inn - JFK
(718) 322-7500 and the Holiday Inn
JFK (718) 659-0200. Ask for the
Gospel Superfest Block when you call
either of these three hotels. (Please see
the GSF website for shuttle service
info)
Other area suggested hotels are:
The Marriott Courtyard -JFK
and
The Crowne Plaza -JFK.
FOR NEW TALENT SHOWCASE
APPLICATIONS PLEASE CLICK
HERE!
Gospel Superfest’ Fifth Annual New
Talent Showcase will be held Friday
October 27, 2006 immediately after the
main stage recording. Approximate start
time 12:00 Midnight. Key Industry pros
and recording artists will sever as
judges for this showcase /after party
and
fellowship opportunity. Registrations
will be accepted on a first come first
serve basis. Spaces are limited so
register early. We’ll see you in
New York City,
this October!
Join Us In 2007
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First Annual
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Coming in
May 2007
For more information
Call: 708-272-6640
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The Synergy of Gospel Music
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The Best independent gospel music online supporting independent gospel everywhere...
Song
Artists
Rating
1. Who Am I
2. Jesus
3. Hold On
4. Be Encouraged
5. Jesus Be A Fence
6. I Need You To Survive
7. He’s My Rock
8.Didn’t Mean To Fall in love
9. Ta Ta You Jesus
10.I’ll Encourage Myself
11.When I Think
12. Maybe God Is Trying
13. Can’t Nbody
14. Anyway
15. Where There’s A Will
16. Unity
17. Expecting A Blessing
18. Just A Little Talk W/Jesus
19. Jesus Is My Best Friend
20. I Can’t Tell It All
21. Speak A Word
22. Gates of Heaven
23. Give Thanks
24. Put Your Finger On Me
25. Show Me The Way
26. I Need You
27. Due Season
28. Wade In The Water
29. Your Cross Reaches
30. I’m Sorry Lord
31. Faith
32. All I Have to give
33. Church Medley
34. It Shall Be Done
35. When I Come Into Your
36. Saved
37. Your Love Has Proven
38. Rain On Me
39. No Problem
40. My Soul
41. Blood of Jesus
42. Father
43. When I Think
44. Alright!
45. I Feel Good
Jacquelene Peters
Arthur Sutton & GOP
Van Moody
Darwin Jackson
Fred Hammond
Pastor Hezikiah Walker
Mamon & Mamon
Pannel Johnson
Kirk Whalum
P. Amour & MSC
Tinika Wyatt
The Color Purple
Qualeisia Bullard
Euclid Gray
Sister Maxine West
Sounds of Blackness
The Bradby Girls
Min. Greg Harris
D. Edwards/Temptations
Yvonne Cobbs Bey
Judah
Endurance
J. Edwards/Reverence
Sounds of Blackness
Valarie Cooper
Pastor Hezikiah Walker
Malcom Williams
The Compilation
Armintha Williams
Willie J. Harris
KiKi Sheard
Eastern Missouri Western
Rev A. Wheeler/Blessed
Judah
Portia Young
Chris Fields
Jacquelene Peters
Bradby Girls
Lenasia Tyson
Darius brooks
Katalys Crew
Nina Lockhart
Tinika Wyatt
Sounds of Salvation
Betty & Leslie Lester
10
10
9.0
9.0
9.0
9.0
9.0
9.0
9.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
7.0
7.0
7.0
6.8
6.8
6.5
6.5
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
5.9
5.9
5.9
5.9
5.9
5.9
Song
Artist
46. It’s Time To Pray
47.Fruit of My Lips
48.Another Blessing
49.Take A Trip
50 You Can’t Hurry God
51.Think of His Goodness
52.Possessed By HisLove
53.Help Somebody
54.Trouble
55.Waiting On Jesus
56.When Your # Comes
57.Available
58.Speak A Word
59.Holy Place
60.Thankful
61.Glory To His Name
62.This Is Me
63.Victory
64 Right There
65.We Ain’t Playin’
66.23
67.What Did You Bring
68. No Problem
69.I Care 4 U
70.I Heard The Angels
71.Waiting on Jesus
72.The Place
73.Whispes
74.Will You Be Ready
75.In The Church
76.Lay My Burdens Down
77.My Soul Cries Out
78.Worship U
79. Halleluia
80.Ride On King Jesus
81.Made A Difference
82.Give Him Praise
83.Hiding Place
84.God’s Love
85.He Was There
86.Welcome My Child
87.Stand Still
88. Stand Up!
89.No Turning Back
90. What Goes Around
Prenestine Williams Porter
Postured for Praise
True Belivers
Mark Caston/JFC
Evaughn High
Min R. Matterre
William Crook
Jeri Little
Women of Integrity
The Compilation
Denise Wolford
Evaughn High
T. Gains/Judah
Ricky Dillard & New G
Endurance
The Compilation
KiKi Sheard
Clarkwise
Angie Spivey & VoV
More Than Conquerors
K.W.A.
Min. Greg Harris
Lenasia Tyson
Danielle Nightengale
Rev C.Wells/VOC
Lowell Powell
Paulette Triplett
Lady David
Yevtte Williams
Hunter Brown
Bishop Joe Simon
Apostle Donald Alford
Eric Carrington
Cathey Townsend
God’s Posse
Julia Ann Gardner
Apostle Donld Alford
Gina Green
Greg Shell
KWA
EL-Kimg Compilation
Yvonne Cobbs- Bey
Shelby 5
Willie J. Harris
Arthur Sutton & GoP
Playing The Best Independent Gospel Music On Line
Download your favorite song today!
Supporting Independent Gospel Artists Worldwide!
Page 26
Rating
5.8
5.8
5.8
5.8
5.8
5.8
5.8
5.8
5.7
5.7
5.7
5.7
5.7
5.6
5.6
5.6
5.6
5.6
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
The Synergy of Gospel Music
Listen to www.gospelpower.fm
For The Best
Independent Gospel Music Online
New Singles
New Singles
1. Juanita Fletcher - Do You Know Him - New Addition
2. Warren Billings - City of Peace - New Addition
3. William Hymes - Faithful - New Addition
4. Chaos In Heavenly Places-Changes Long Over Due New
5. Gospel Connection - Father
6. Lenasia Tyson - No Problem
7. Thaddaeus Gaines & Judah - Speak A Word
8. Armintha Williams - Your Cross Reaches
9. Willie J. Harris - I’m Sorry Lord Inst.
10. Van D. Roberson - What A Fellowship
11. Gina Green - Hiding Place
12 Gina Green - Stand Up
13. Rev. Alfred Wheeler & Blessed - Church Medley
14. Valarie Cooper - Blessed Be The Lord
15. Clarkwise - Victory In The Storm
16. Lady David - Thank You
17. Sounds of Salvation - Don’t Let The Devil Ride
18. Thaddaeus Gains & Judah - Speak A Word
19. Sign of The Dove Music - I Thank You Lord
20. Leo Cooper, Jr. Church Choir (Comedy)
New Addition CD
New Additions CD’s
1. Juanita Fletcher - Turning Point New Addition
2. Warren Billings - Christian Music Ministry New Addition
3. William Hymes - November Songs New Addition
4. Chaos In Heavenly Places - Soundtrack New Addition
5. Gospel Connection - Project Volume 1
6. Lenasia Tyson - A New Relationship
7. Thaddaeus Gaines & Judah -Soul’d Out
8. Armintha Williams - Time Is Running Out
9. Willie J. Harris - No turning Back
10. Van D. Roberson - It’s your Season
11. Gina Green - Tell Um
12 Gina Green - Changes
13. Rev. Alfred Wheeler & Blessed - I Need A Breakthrough
14. Valarie Cooper - Show Me the Way
15. Clarkwise - Victory In The Storm
16. Lady David - We Are One
17. Sounds Of Salvation - Alright!
18. Thaddaeus Gaines & Judah - Soul’d Out
19. Sign of The Dove Music - Live Praise & Worship
20. Leo Cooper, Jr. - Did I Say That?
www.gospelswap.com once
you enter click search
music type in artist name
or song title and listen to
2 minute sound Clips
before you purchase your favorite track for $.99.
1 Postured For Praise - I Was Created.
2. Marcy Morman & Ekklesia - Imma Whosoever
3. Leon Scott - When We Meet The Lord
4. Charles Green - Fly Away
5. K.W. A. - He Was There
6. Blood Bought P. I. F. - American Idol
7. Paulette Triplett - The Place
8. More Than Conquerors - We Ain’t Play’n
9. Rev. Dr. R. Singlelary, P. Beasley, Rev. J. Wooden &
Louis Jones - Fly High
10. Darrell Alexander - Free Indeed
11. Minister Greg Harris - Just A Little Talk with Jesus
12. Simply Phia - Joined Together
13. Nat Brown -Wonderful
14. Prenestine Williams Porter - It’s time To Pray
15. Victory Christian Assembly Mass Choir - Over & Over
16. Chris O’Neal - I Need you Lord
17. The Bardby Girls - Rain On Me
18. Lady Peachena - Stay In The Will of God
19. Phillip Carter and SOV - Have Faith
20. Mark Caston & Just For Christ Chorle
1. Postured For Praise - Fruits of my Lips
2. Marcy Morman - My Secret Place
3. Leon Scott - The Demostration of Love
4. Charles Green - Bring Your Troubles To The Lord
5. K. W. A. - A New Heart
6. Blood Bouught P. I. F.- Shake Down: The Truth Unveiled
7. Paulette Triplett - The Place
8. More Than Conquerors - His Season Our Time
9. Rev. Dr. R. Singlelary, P. Peasley, Rev. J. Wooden &
Louis Jones - The Church Is “Flying High”
10. Darrell Alexandre - Praise Your Pains Away
11. Minister Greg Harris Minister Greg Harris Live
12. Simply Phia - Simply Phia
13 Nat Brown - Family Album of Praise
14. Prenestine Williams Porter - Appointed for Praise
15. Victory Christian Assembly Mass Choir - Victorious
Living
16. Chris O’Neal - Got Praise
17. The Bradby Girls - Expecting A Blessing
18. Lady Peachena - The Bishop’s Daughter
19. Phillip Carter and SOV - The Journey Continues
20. Mark Caston & Just For Christ Chorale - He Did It All
Visit us online today www.gospelswap.com
Page 27
The Synergy of Gospel Music
Listen To www.gospelpower.fm
For The Best
Independent Gospel Music Online
New Singles
1. Kathryn Riggins - Secret Place
2. Minister Ronald J. Materre - Amazing Grace
3. Women of Integrity - Trouble
4. Clarria Smith - Yes, Lord I’ll Follow Thee
5. Theola Booker & Friends - I Need Your Blessing
6. CCJM - Delivered
7. Pilgrim Rest Dallas - Church Medley
8. Ledoria - Reborn
9. Cathy Townsend - Soon I Will Be Done
10. Dr. Willette Green-Johnson - Give It To Jesus
11. Bishop Joe Simon - Lay My Burden Down
12 Sam Hofer - Lethal Action
13. Sam Hofer - The Battle Is The Lord
14. Sister Maxine West - Lord Will Make Away
15. Danioelle Nightingale - Holy One
16. Denise Wolford - Inage of God
17. Michael Ford & New Joy - No Compromise
18. Charle Green - Fly Away
19. Minister Gerry Grant - We’ve Got To Believe
20. Masterpiece Compilation - It’s Worked Out (D.Coley)
New CD Additions
1. Kathryn Riggins - Give Him The Praise
2. Minister Ronald J. Materre - Look At God
3. Women of Integrity - God Is Good
4. Clarria Smith - God Has Got Your Back
5. Theola Booker & Friends - Self Titled
6. CCJM - What A Friend
7. Pilgrim Rest Dallas WFAM - A Live Experience
8. Ledoria - Heaven’s Callin’
9. Cathy Townsend - RE-Born RE- Juvanating RE-Joicing
10. Dr. Willette Green-Johnson - Adore
11. Bishop Joe Simon - Time to Change
12. Sam Hofer - Imagination Station
13 Sam Hofer - Whitestone
14. Maxine West - Sister Maxine West
15. Denise Wolford - When Your # Comes
16. Minister Gerry Grant - Jesus Has Kept Me
17. Rev. Charlie Wells & The Voices of Couds - I Love You
Lord
18. Robert Houston & True Dedication - Heaven
19. Lonnie McNamee - The Compilation Masterpiece
20. Get you CD Listed Here... Join Today!
www.gospelswap.com once
you enter click search
music type in artist name
or song title and listen to
2 minute sound Clips
before you purchase your favorite track for $.99.
Top Clips Played
1. Dr. Margaret Douroux - The Glow of Glory
2. Dr. Margaret Douroux - Thank You
3. Dr. Margaret Douroux - Already Done
4. Arthur Sutton & Gift of Praise - In This Place
5. Joe Sharkey - If It Had Not Been
6. Pilgrim Rest - Created For Worship
7. Pilgram Rest - Church Medley
8. Ronald J Matterre - Amazing Grace
9. Lady Peachena - Lord Save Our Young Men
10. Witness For Christ - Are You Ready
11. O Lord Is It I - Nat M. Brown Productions
12. Thank You - Minstrel
13. Since I Met Jesus -The Voices of Progressive
14. All Of God’s People - MAMON and MAMON
15 Deliverance Is On The Way-God Will Deliver
16. Church House Rap - KAE DJ Publishing
17. Jesus Is Real - Unity In The Spirit Chorale
18. Simply Serene - Karli Bonne
19. Center Of My Joy - St. Monica
20. Angel Without Wings - Karli Bonne
Editor Choice
1. Portia Young - When I Come Into Your Presence
2. Rev. William Crook - Possessed By His Love
3. Robert Houston & True Dedication - Devotion
4. To Be Faithful - Betty Lester
5. Willette Green Johnson - Adore
6. The 411- Can’t Nobody
7. Secret Place - Kathy Riggins
8. Jesus - Arthur Sutton and The Gift of Praise
9. What A Friend - C.C. M. J.
10. Over & Over - Victory Christian Assembly Mass Choir
11. Grateful - Zi’el
12. Where There’s A Will There’s A Way - Maxine West
13 Can’t Nobody - Women of Integrity
14. God Has Got Your Back - Clarissa Smith
15. Since Jesus - Cathy Townsend
16. Lay My Burden Down - Bishop Joe Simon
17. Dr. Jesus - Elder Charles Scott
18. Never Alone - Jason Allen and The Family
19. It’s Your Season - Van D. Roberson
20. I Heard The Angels Singing - Rev. Charlie Wells and the
Clouds of Joy
Page 28
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“Who Am I”
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Internet Music Sales Booming
Internet sales of music via the Internet and mobile phones hit $1.1 billion last
year, triple 2004 sales and accounting for 6 percent of global record company revenues, according to a report from the London-based International Federation of
Phonographic Industry (IFPI). The IFPI said music fans around the globe downloaded 420 million single tracks in 2005, more than double the 156 million downloaded the previous year.
“2005 was the year that the digital music market took shape.” said IFPI Chairman
John Kennedy.
The IFPI also called the Internet Service Providers, or ISps, to join ythe fight against
music piracy, which he claims severly erodes the profits of its 1,450 member record
companies across the globe. According to the IFPI, legitimate music business is
gradually gaining ground on digital piracy. It said research showed that in Europe’s
two biggest markets - Britian and Germany - more music fans are now legally downloading music than illigally file-swapping.
A series of lawsuits against piracy by the IFPI has so far largely targeted individual
song swapers for breach of copyright rather than ISPs, which can claim that they
have no knowledge of any piracy occuring on their networks.
Kennedy, who said he approached prominent ISPs a year ago about a coordinated
response and has recieved “effectively a zero response, put them on notice recently
that the IFPI would consider litigation if they did not join the fight against piracy.
Independent Gospel Artists
Juanita Fletcher
Turning Point
Warren Billings
Christian Music
Ministries
William Hymes
November Songs
Joell Stanford Jr.
Chaos In
Heavenly Places
Shelby 5
Hero’s
Darwin Jackson
&
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Endurance
He’ll Make Away
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