President Barack Obama is still being celebrated as the first African-American president of the United States.

Every day, while he makes news with decisions he is making to guide the country as its commander and chief, the reality of his historic administration continues to be worth talking about, writing about and now singing about.

Israel Houghton, Donnie McClurkin, Dottie Peoples, T.D. Jakes' Potter House Mass Choir, Juanita Bynum and others are singing in his honor on A Gospel Tribute to President Obama.

McClurkin contributes the affirmation “King Inside of Me” while gold-selling artist Israel Houghton offers “Send Me to the Nations.” Veteran vocalist Jerard Woods sings “I’m Gonna Make It,” and William Murphy lends his voice to “Changes.”

Micah Stampley’s tenor vocals are mixed with Michael O’Brien’s jazzy tones on “Brothers and Friends.”

There is also a tribute to Michelle Obama by R&B veterans Kelly Price and Shirley Murcdock who sing “The Curtain’s Raised.”

Most of the selections on the CD were produced by Victor and Cedric Caldwell, who have worked with artists ranging from Whitney Houston to Take 6. Other producers include Kevin Bond, Marc Harris, Tommy Sims and Myron Williams.

For more information on this and other gospel projects, visit www.ilovegospelmusic.com. The CD will be available beginning Tuesday for $12.99.

SOURCE: Capital Entertainment

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:35 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (1)
                       

Jonathan Nelson is taking his music ministry from the Baltimore area to Fort Lauderdale, where he will join the Faith Center International.

In a recent interview, Nelson said the move was needed because he wanted to leave his comfort zone, the place where he grew his talent and faith, to another place "of greater blessing, of growth in the ministry and growth in my marriage.''

It's a risky move considering that this year Nelson and his group, Purpose, won numerous Stellar Awards. They were also Dove Award nominees.

"It's bittersweet," said Nelson, who will also be leaving Empowerment Temple, one of Baltimore's largest churches, where he is minister of music. "I've been there seven years.

"My father told us to always build bridges and relationships. He (Pastor Jamal Harrison-Bryant of Empowerment) gave me his blessing,'' he said.

Nelson said the warm weather state will be a welcome change. He will be joining Faith Center International, where Bishop Henry Fernandez is pastor.

Nelson could not comment as to how he will fit into that church ministry.
"We've definitely discusssed me being involved in his ministry in some way," Nelson said.

While the specifics are worked out, Nelson plans to continue working with his group Purpose, made up of artists from the Baltimore area.

"I will be home from time to time. I plan to continue recording in Baltimore for now,'' said Nelson, who is the twin brother of Jason Nelson, pastor of Greater Bethlehem Temple of Randallstown, where their father was once the pastor. Jason Nelson is also a national recording gospel artist.

Moving to Florida for Nelson, who is married and has two children, is also a strategic move.

Nelson and Purpose's latest CD Right Now Praise, which was released last year, continues to be a huge success, particularly with audiences in the South. Over the last year, he's been back and forth to places in North Carolina and Tennessee. At the time of this interview, he had an appearance lined up in Houston.

"I'm down South once or twice or month,'' he said. "They listen. They know every word of every song. They take ownership of it (the songs). It's a humbling experience.''

Nelson is also hoping that with the move to Florida, he'll have more time with his family.

"This is the right time for me and my family,'' he said. "I believe God has ordained this.''

A farewell concert will be held Sunday at 6 p.m. in honor of Nelson and his family at Empowerment Temple. Scheduled performers are Karen Clark-Sheard, Tye Tribbett, Chrystal Rucker, VaShawn Mitchell, Stephen Hurd, J.J. Hairston & Youthful Praise and more.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 10:31 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (1)
                       

Patti LaBelle, who in 2006 released the CD, The Gospel According to Patti LaBelle, is planning to use her voice to proclaim her faith at the McDonald's Gospelfest next month.

She jokes with the Newark Star-Ledger of New Jersey,""It will be a total gospel set, though maybe I'll do a song like 'Over the Rainbow,' too," she says. "If you hear me do 'Lady Marmalade,' I want you to call the cops." The event will be held June 13 in Newark.

This is LaBelle's first appearance in the 26-year history of the popular festival. While the event hosts local talent (soloists, groups and choirs) from the East Coast, particularly New York and New Jersey, it is also a stop for many award winning gospel artists.

Donnie McClurkin, CeCe Winans, Regina Belle, Cissy Houston, J. Moss, Vickie Winans and Hezekiah Walker and his Love Fellowship Choir will headline this year's event. Gospelfest also include performances in the categories of praise dance, poetry, comedy and rap.

To read more, click here.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 10:30 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Gospel sound that uplifts the soul during these trying economic times is what's in store for those in the Detroit area who have can see award winning artists Marvin Sapp and Mary Mary on stage.

The Stellar and Grammy award winning artists will share the stage with Kierra Sheard and Bill Moss Jr. at the Detroit Opera House.

To read more about the concert on Sunday, go to the Detroit News.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 2:36 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Natalie Cole is known for many things: She's the daughter of Nat "King" Cole and a Grammy Award winner; and in the last several years, the R&B artist has been recognized for adding gospel music to her repertoire.

She, at one time, was a guest host of TBN's Praise The Lord - a church ministry in song and word - and has appeared on TV One's The Gospel of Music with Jeff Majors show.

During these public programs - including an interview on CNN's Larry King Live - Cole spoke about her need for a kidney transplant. Earlier this month, her prayers were answered.

She underwent a kidney transplant on May 18 and went home to recover. But this physical healing came with some bittersweet news that her older sister Carol Cole died.

Cole, who was slated to perform at the Capital Jazz Fest next month, has canceled that appearance and other tour dates this summer to recover from the surgery, according to an ajc.com.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:37 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Civil rights groups and broadcasters continue to lobby for a hearing on the Performance Rights Act, which would have all radio stations, including those that play gospel music, pay royalties to recording artists whose music they play on the air.

A version of the bill, sponsored by John Conyers, D-Mich., has been approved by the House Judiciary Committee. Conyers has been under fire because he has refused to set a hearing at the request of civil rights leaders and broadcasters who want to discuss the economic ramifications of the bill on radio stations, particularly minority-owned stations.

Cathy Hughes, owner of Radio One, which has both R&B and gospel stations, has lead this opposition in the last month.

To read more, click here.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 1:43 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Marc Davis, an 18-year-old African-American NASCAR driver in tomorrow's CARQUEST Auto Parts 300 at the Lowe's Motor Speedway, may be praying that his earthly sponsor with heavenly contacts will help him win the race.

The Silver Spring, Maryland competitor will be driving the number 36 Toyota, which is being sponsored by The Word Network, a cable and satellite media broadcaster of urban church ministries and gospel music.

This is Davis' first NASCAR Nationwide Series start. He has competed in six previous Nationwide Series events with a best start, fourth, and best finish, 23rd, at Memphis Motorsports Park in October. Davis competed in the Nationwide Series at Bristol Motor Speedway in March. His car number, #36, represents the number of years since Wendell Scott - the last African-American owner/driver - competed in NASCAR in 1973.

"The Word Network is proud to help support his efforts in this country's biggest sport. In my opinion, Marc Davis' participation in and love for auto racing is good for the sport. His success could introduce a whole new fan base to NASCAR," said Steve Antoniotti, Word Network director of development.

Qualifying for the Concord, North Carolina race begins at 3:45 p.m. tomorrow. The race begins at 7 p.m. and will be carried on ESPN2 and The Performance Racing Network.

SOURCES: marcdavismotorsports.com and PRNEWSWIRE.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 6:59 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Radio stations such as Baltimore's WCAO Heaven 600 (Clear Channel) and Magic 95.9 (Radio One) would be among the thousands of outlets that would be hit by a royalties bill that would require them to pay artists a fee to play their songs.

Radio One owner Cathy Hughes, among others, has come out against it, saying it would put a heavy financial burden on black radio stations, particularly those playing gospel and R&B.

But Duke Fakir, a founding member of Motown's legendary Four Tops, says Hughes and others are spreading a lot of misinformation about the issue, according to a story in the Detroit News.

"The deal has been amended and corrected; it's more than fair," Fakir says in that article. "The deal has been set up so it will not hurt small radio. Some of the smaller stations would pay $500; some wouldn't pay anything. Corporate radio would have to pay more, negotiate rates with the performers. Sure it's a bad time, with a recession, but you still have to move on with life, you have to make changes. They're going to charge advertisers anyway."

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 12:42 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Radio One's Cathy Hughes this week asked listeners on the Tom Joyner Morning Show to write letters and call their congressman asking them to vote against a bill that, if passed, would have radio stations pay artists whose music they play.

Hughes, who owns both R&B and gospel radio stations, said the legislation could force most Black-owned stations out of business, if they have to pay out millions of dollars to artists.

Joyner and Hughes this week said on the Joyner show that the money should instead come from the artists' record companies.

Joyner and Hughes are not alone in this fight. Civil rights advocate Rev. Al Sharpton opposes the bill sponsored by Democrat John Conyers of Michigan.

Here's a letter Hughes wrote to listeners.

In the Baltimore market, Radio One of Silver Springs operates several stations, including Magic 95.9 FM, which plays R&B, and gospel radio station Spirit 1400 AM.

A story in the Wall Street Journal says that Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings Inc. and Cox Radio would also lose money if this bill passes.

Read a story on detnews.com about a protest in Conyers home state of Michigan.

In that article, Detroit councilwoman Martha Reeves of Motown Records fame said she wants to receive royalties. She and about 300 artists helped initiate Conyers' bill, according to Reeves.

[Sources: nydailynews.com, eurweb.com, wsj.com and detnews.com]

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 3:25 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (1)
                       

Y'Anna Crawley, of Mount Rainier, Md., sat quietly for 10 weeks as other "Sunday Best" contestants received a lot of buzz from their performances on the BET "American Idol"-like TV show.

But now Crawley is in the spotlight, having been crowned the Season 2 winner of the gospel contest on Sunday.

NPR talked with the Maryland native about her victory and her plans for the car and record contract she won.

Crawley, 32, beat out 19 finalists. And it wasn't host Kirk Franklin or judges BeBe Winans, and Erica and Tina Campbell (of Mary Mary) who made the deciding votes. It was the public.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 3:17 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

For weeks, it appeared that Michigan's Jessica Reedy seemed to be the likely favorite to win BET's "Sunday Best," an "American Idol"-like competition.

But the public vote (through emails and calls) proved something different. On Sunday, Y'Anna Crawley of Mount Rainier, Md., was crowned the winner of the 10-week popular gospel show in its second season.

Crawley, 32, won a national recording contract and a 2009 Lincoln MKS.

Crawley performed "The Promise," a song written by Lou "Buster" Brown, Scott "Shavoni" Parker and Ryan Sims on the season finale. This song will also be her first single on her debut project, according to BET.

Go to www.BET.com for more information on Crawley and the finale.

Read about how Reedy handled her defeat in The Saginaw News.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:48 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (8)
                       

Her latest CD has nothing to do with gospel music, but later this year, Ciara will appear in a DVD adaptation of the gospel musical Mama I want to Sing!.

The DVD will also include Patti LaBelle and Lynn Whitfield.

In a USA Today article, Ciara says she loves writing but also enjoyed collaborating with other artists for her latest CD, "Fantasy Ride." However, it appears the R&B singer and model also wants to spread her wings beyond the concert stage.

Read more on usatoday.com.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:43 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

The hat that found its place at the Smithsonian's 2009 presidential inauguration collection because it was worn during the historic January event continues to be big news for the millinery and for Aretha Franklin, who wore the big bow hat seen around the world.

Mr. Song Millinery of Detroit, where the hat was made, continues to do big business months after the fashion world conveyed its love and hate of Franklin's headgear. And now, Aretha has been quoted as saying she thinks she deserves a cut in the hat store's profits, according to
The Detroit News and the Detroit Free Press.

And yet another designer is capitalizing on Franklin's hat.

According to ClickonDetroit, a Detroit man is making the hat into an ornament.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:01 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Gospel Music Channel will air a three-part special on Queen Esther Marrow, considered to be "The First Lady of Gospel.''

"Let The Good Times Roll" airs on GMC Sunday at 9 p.m.; "Celebrate Good Times" airs May 17 at 9 p.m.; and "Rock My Soul" airs May 31 at 9 p.m.

According to christiannewswire.com, Marrow, of Newport News, Va., was discovered by the late Duke Ellington, at 22. In 1966, she joined Ellington on his "'Sacred Concert'' world tour.

Marrow went on to perform with giants of music, including Lena Horne, Ella Fitzgerald, B.B. King, Ray Charles, Thelonious Monk, Chick Corea, Bob Dylan, and her lifetime idol, Mahalia Jackson.

She founded the famed Harlem Gospel Choir in 1992.

To read more about Marrow and the GMC specials, go to christiannewswire.com.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 11:54 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (1)
                       

The Mother's Day tribute concert with Marvin Sapp and Yolanda Adams is making its way up the East Coast this weekend.

Friday in Hampton, Sapp and Adam will be joined by Ricky Dillard at the Hampton Coliseum in Virginia; Saturday, the concert is at Phladelphia's Liacouras Center; and Sunday, Kirk Franklin will join Sapp and Adams at 1st Mariner Arena.

Go to Ticketmaster.com for times, tickets and information.

Review of the Philadelphia concert to come.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 11:38 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (1)
                       

This is video taken at the Rev. Timothy Wright's funeral on Monday. A mass choir sings "Who's On The Lord's Side'' during the service at a church in New York.

Wright died last month at age 61 from injuries he sustained during a July 4 collision with a driver going the wrong way in Pennsylvania.

See an earlier blog post here.

SOURCE: blackpreachingnetwork.com

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 7:18 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (2)
                       

Rev. Al Sharpton was one of the speakers at Rev. Timothy Wright's funeral today at Pilgrim Church in New York.

Sharpton relayed a message from R&B and gospel artist Aretha Franklin, known as the "Queen of Soul."

"She said: 'Well the good news is, Al ... It happened the way he lived ... Timothy was on the right side of the road'," Sharpton repeated.

SOURCE:1010wins.com

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 2:45 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

The media in New York is covering the passing of Rev. Timothy Wright, the "Godfather of Gospel Music.''

In a previous blog post, you can read the stories from Newsday and the New York Daily News.

Now, go to ny1.com to see video from the services held this weekend. The final homegoing service for Wright, a two-time Grammy-nominated gospel artist, is taking place today at Pilgrim Church in New York.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:53 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (1)
                       

Jazz and rock artists took the stage at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, which celebrated its 40th anniversary this year.

But Aaron Neville and another gospel group made sure that the festival wasn't all rock and rhythm and blues.

Songs such as the Lord's Prayer and Amazing Grace provided the backdrop for a day of praise and worship during Sunday's final day of jazz.

To read more, go to USA TODAY.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:37 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (1)
                       

About 200 people signed a guest book at Grace Tabernacle Church Saturday afternoon in the first of a series of celebrations held throughout the weekend to pay tribute to the late Rev. Timothy Wright, who was known as the "Godfather of Gospel music.''

Among those who were on the list were actor, singer and dancer Ben Vereen, and Grammy-nominated gospel artist Byron Cage.

To read more, see Newsday and the New York Daily News.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 6:39 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (10)
                       

On Sunday, Tyler Perry spoke to Baltimore's Rev. Jamal Bryant on BET's Lift Every Voice about his faith and the future of his much beloved character, Madea.

Perry's plays, movies and TV shows play well to a church audience because he uses faith and gospel music as a main draw in many of his productions.

"I know I wouldn't be here if it had not been for God,'' Perry said to Bryant, who was filling in as host for the show this week. "I owe a great debt to God. I'm not a zealot. I'm not crazy. I'm just a believer.''

He says not everyone in the faith-based community likes his gospel-inspired productions, which have included Madea, his fiery gun-toting character who often side steps the Bible and uses comedy to bring home a real-life message.

In defense, he says that people have to look at his work in total and see the meat of it.

Perry is the producer of the TV show Meet The Browns and his most recent movie is Madea Goes to Jail.

He'd like to retire the Madea character, but his audience seems to enjoy the humor she brings, Perry says, adding that he's now looking to broaden the themes of his productions.

"I didn't want to do the character again,'' he said. "But people want to see her again. And they'll see her every now and then.''

[Source: "Lift Every Voice," BET]

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 3:41 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (1)
                       

Tyler Perry is enjoying the huge success of his talent. But sometimes all that fame can come at a huge price.

Earlier this month, Dawne Wilson was arrested in Atlanta for allegedly violating a restraining order obtained by Perry.

Wilson was arrested April 15 for aggravated stalking outside Perry's Atlanta studios, according to myfoxatlanta.com.

To read more, check out themoneytimes.com and tmz.com.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 11:00 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (1)
                       

The church where the late Rev. Timothy Wright was pastor remembered him Sunday in a tribute ceremony. Known as the "Godfather of Gospel Music,'' Wright died last week. He was 61.

Grace Tabernacle Christian Center in Brooklyn, N.Y., sang "Jesus, Jesus, Jesus'' and other songs the Grammy-nominated artist made popular during his lengthy career. The "Jesus" song, written by his wife, Betty Wright, was one of his most popular songs in recent years.

One church member called Wright a "minister of music.''

In July 2008, Wright was critically injured in a car crash that killed his wife and grandson.

To read more about the Sunday service, go to the New York Daily News Web site.

Read more Gospelrama entries about Wright's funeral and other planned services here.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 8:39 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (22)
                       

Gospel Music artist and pastor Rev. Timothy Wright, who died last week at age 61, will be celebrated next week.

A public viewing will be held at the church where he was pastor - Grace Tabernacle Church of God in Christ, Crown Heights, Brooklyn, New York on Saturday, May 2, noon to 8 p.m.

A musical tribute will follow on Sunday fom 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at a yet to be disclosed location.

On that same day, a 7 p.m. service will be held at Pleasant Grove Tabernacle, Fulton & Howard Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, where the pastor is Bishop Albert Jamison.

A homegoing service for Wright will be held Monday, May 4 at 10 a.m. at Pilgrim Cathedral,
Broadway & Gates Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, where the pastor is Bishop Roy E. Brown.

To read about this Grammy nominated artist known as the "Godfather of Gospel," click here.

SOURCES: Black Gospel Promo and The New York Daily News.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 4:15 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (50)
                       

"He will be tremendously missed, but his voice will be eternal," said Rev. Al Sharpton, a decades-long friend of Rev. Timothy Wright, who died early Thursday.

Sharpton spoke to the New York Daily News about Wright, known as the "Godfather of Gospel.'' Wright was also a pastor of a church in Brooklyn.

This is how the article describes Wright's voice: He was "blessed with a booming voice and an artistic genius.''

,"He certainly changed the feel of gospel music, and children not born in his lifetime will hear his music," Sharpton said. "He has been a monumental figure in our community as a pastor."

To read more, click here.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 6:19 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (1)
                       

The Rev. Timothy Wright died early Thursday at the age of 61.

Above, he performs one of his most popular songs "You Must Come In At The Door.''

Wright, pastor and gospel artist, has entered another door, one that transitions him from his earthly home to his heavenly place.

In July 2008, Wright was seriously injured in a car crash that killed his wife and grandson.

Not long ago, his family reported that he was having some difficulties with his health.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:14 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (13)
                       

The Blind Boys of Alabama and Edwin Hawkins, closed the 40th annual Dove Awards, bringing their audience to its feet.

The Blind Boys sang "Free At Last" while Edwin Hawkins sang "Oh Happy Day'' with the help of Melinda Watts (2008 Gospel Dream winner), Donnie McClurkin and others.

The closing came after Steven Curtis Chapman's sobering acceptance speech for Artist of the Year honors, beating out Marvin Sapp.

Chapman, wife and family are still mourning the death of adopted daughter Maria Chapman. The 5-year-old died last year when her 17-year-old brother backed over her with his SUV in the driveway of the family's Nashville area home.

"There are a lot of reasons why I am standing here,'' Chapman said while standing next to his wife.

"The reason we are standing here, it's nothing we know about music, but it was our ability to communicate the hope that we have. Our hope is not in this life,'' said Chapman, adding that his hope has helped him to have a bolder testimony. "Jesus is coming and He can't come soon enough for me.''

Read a story about how this tragedy is bringing national attention to rear view safety.

For a complete list of tonight's Dove award winners go to www.doveawards.com

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 10:06 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Tonight, before introducing Mercy Me at the Dove Awards, Carrie Prejean received rousing applause and a standing ovation from those in attendance at the Christian music event.

Miss California on Sunday lost the Miss USA pageant because, she says, of her answer to a question on gay marriage presented by judge Perez Hilton. Simply stated, her faith doesn't allow her to accept gay marriage.

Prejean received a lot of pushback for that answer. And the controversy continues to swirl. Read what people are saying in U.S. News & World Report.

Read here to see what other pageant contestants believe she should have said.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:40 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (4)
                       

Baltimore's Jonathan Nelson and Purpose sang a short version of their "My Name Is Victory'' as part of a music preview of the those nominated for New Artist of the Year at the annual Dove Awards.

Fans can vote online or text their vote for their favorite nominee for this award and Artist of year, a first for the annual awards program that is called Grammy's of gospel music.

Go to www.gospelmusicchannel/doves.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 8:39 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

With a little help from a lead in from various gospel artists who talked about the power of gospel music and its ability to draw people to a higher power, Kierra Sheard and Mary Mary opened the annual GMA Dove Awards.

The performances weren't stellar, but rather a little rough and off beat.

That was particularly the case for Mary Mary, who sang their hit "Get Up'' with what sounded like a mix of track music, background artists, and a band. Mary Mary, by the way, lost the Group of the Year award to Casting Crowns. They later won Best Urban Recorded Song over Kirk Franklin, Detrick Haddon, Damita Haddon, and J.R.

Male Vocalist of the Year went to Brandon Heath, who beat out a host of artists including Marvin Sapp who is having an award winning year having won Stellar Awards earlier this year.

Sapp is also nominated for Artist of the Year in which he is up against tough competition, including tobyMac and Steven Curtis Chapman.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 8:19 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Miss California Carrie Prejean doesn't sing gospel music, but she does enjoy the message of the faith-based genre.

That's all it took for the controversial runner-up to get spot as a presenter at the annual Gospel Music Association's annual Dove Awards Thursday night in Nashville.

Prejean also has a Baltimore connection. She is reportedly dating hometown Olympian Michael Phelps of Towson, according to published reports.

Prejean will be among the many gospel artists to present during the awards show, including Baltimorean Jonathan Nelson.

Prejean's time in the spotlight began Sunday when she gave a controversial answer to a Miss USA question about gay marriage. Apparently, its her faith that also has propelled her to a starring role at the Dove Awards, which will air Thursday night at 8 on Gospel Music Channel.

See the Tennessean story here.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 10:07 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (14)
                       

Oprah Winfrey was among many who sent flowers to Detroit in remembrance of David "Pop" Winans Sr., the patriarch of the award winning family that died last week and was remembered in a service tonight at Perfecting Church, where his son the Rev. Marvin Winans is pastor.

Winfrey is a "longtime friend and fan of the Winans, several of whom have appeared on her show.'' according to a story by the Detroit Free Press.

Read more here.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 10:00 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

In dramatic fashion, BET's Sunday Best host Kirk Franklin called two names from the remaining six participants last night.

One of them was John McClure Jr. of Owings Mills, who was eliminated from the gospel competition.

McClure received good reviews for his performance of Fred Hammond's "You Are My Life.''

Donald Lawrence, who worked with each artist before the show, gave commentary about the potential of each contestant. "John McClure is one of those real smooth singers,'' Lawrence said. "He is real smooth with a lot of heart.''

McClure's performance didn't seem to connect with the judges when comparing his talent against the others, however.

Judges BeBe Winans and Erica Campbell gave McClure a thumbs up for his performance, while Tina Campbell said,''I would have loved if you had held a note.''

To see behind-the-scenes outtakes, go to bet.com/sundaybest.

To read a story about Jessica Reedy, who is in the top four and the favorite to win, click here.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 8:53 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Family and friends will celebrate the life of David 'Pop' Winans next week in Detroit.

Winans, the patriarch of the Winans gospel family, died this week in Nashville, but he was born and raised in the Motor City.

A memorial and viewing services will take place Tuesday at Perfecting Church, Detroit, at 7 p.m. For more information, call 313-365-3787. This service will be followed by a homegoing celebration on Wednesday at 10 a.m. at the same church.

Flowers for the family can be sent to McFall Brothers Funeral Home, 9419 Dexter Ave
Detroit, MI 48206 or call (313) 895-8900.

Read other posts about Winans' legacy here.

SOURCES: Associated Press, Detroit Free Press, Black Gospel Promo

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 4:41 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (19)
                       

David 'Pop' Winans Sr., was a man who was a "no-nonsense old-fashioned holiness preacher and singer,” the Rev. J. Drew Sheard, husband of Karen Clark Sheard of the Clark Sisters, told The Detroit Free Press.

Winans, father of 10, including BeBe and Cece Winans and the Rev. Marvin Winans, was an accomplished artist.

In 1989, he and his wife, Delores, recorded their Grammy-nominated debut CD “Mom & Pop Winans.” The couple's second album , “The Rest of My Life,” featured “Go Tell It On The Mountain,” a soulful rendition that became popular in church circles, according to the Free Press story.

Winans wasn't always a musician, though. Before the worldwide family popularity, he was preacher, entrepreneur and community activists in Detroit.

He recently moved to Nashville, where he died yesterday, to be closer to several of his children.

Read more about this accomplished man here.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 7:57 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (5)
                       

The father of well known gospel artists Rev. Marvn Winans, BeBe and CeCe Winans and other siblings, has died.

David 'Pop' Winans Sr., died today in Nashville with his wife at his side. Funeral details have not been released. Read more about what is known at Tennessean.com

Here's more from the AP
Winans suffered from numerous heart ailments as reported on Gospelrama late last year.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 8:35 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (21)
                       

Gil Kaufman of MTV was interviewed by Gospel Music Channel to discuss his latest stories about American Idol's connection to Christian music.

Many of the contestants from the popular Fox show have roots in the church, serving as praise and worship leaders or singing in the choir.

Kaufman wrote an MTV.com story a few weeks ago, which stirred up controversy among the fans of the show.

Kaufman concludes," Like Aretha Franklin or Ray Charles before them, these singers grew up in the ultimate proving ground for a singer trying to find his or her voice: the church. Singing in front of an audience and learning new songs every week is practically a boot camp for a show like Idol, and the string of church-bred winners and contestants got as far as they did on the show because they used those lessons they learned in church on a show that has become like a pop-culture religion.''

The list of winners and contestants to go onto recording careers after the show include Jennifer Hudson, Fantasia Barrino, Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard, Mandisa, George Huff, Chris Sligh and others.

GMC's interview with Kaufman for a documentary called From Idol to Inspiration will air on the network April 23.

Read more about Kaufman's experience at the Atlanta-based station here.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 10:21 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Chicago pastor and artist Smokie Norful released his latest CD Tuesday.

"Smokie Norful Live" includes guest spots by Tony Award winner Heather Headley and Stellar winner Tye Tribbett.

Norful will celebrate the release Tuesday at Chicago's DuSable Museum of African-American History.

The son of an Arkansas minister, Norful sang in the church choir as a child and labels his music "urban inspirational."

His other projects include 2002's "I Need You Now" and his 2004 release, the Grammy Award-winning "Nothing Without You."

To read more about Norful's latest CD, go to www.suntimes.com.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 2:36 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (1)
                       

LaKisha Jones, who finished fourth on Season 6 of "American Idol," is expecting two deliveries this spring: her first CD called "So Glad I'm Me" and her second child.

Jones, whose musical roots include singing in the gospel choir as a child in Flint, Mich., and again as an adult in a Houston church choir, lived for a while in the Baltimore metropolitan area. She worked for Provident Bank's Millersville branch before leaving the area to compete on "American Idol," where talents such as Fantasia Barrino, Jennifer Hudson, and many others with church choir roots, have been discovered.

Check out People Magazine for more on what Jones is doing these days.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 11:27 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Dorothy Norwood and Baltimore's own Jonathan Nelson today will be among a group of celebrities and officials to announce that the Gospel Music Workshop of America will hold its 2009 annual convention in Cincinnati.

The GMWA’s web site describes the convention as a “week-long gathering including academic classes, evangelism and outreach, nightly music services, showcases, radio and television executives and promoters, exhibits and seminars,” according to bizjournals.com.

For more information about the GWMA, click here.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 7:30 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

"Let the River Flow" and "You Are My God and King" from Donnie McClurkin's new project We All Are One (Live in Detroit) seems to be this reviewer's favorite songs.

The Associated Press story goes on to say that McClurkin project "certainly delivers on praise and worship songs'' but lacks meaty ballads such his "Stand'' (2003).

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 10:25 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Former 'Idol' winner Ruben Studdard is a busy "Velvet Teddy Bear.''

He's traveling with the musical "Ain't Misbehavin,'' releasing a CD next month, and will return to American Idol for a cameo appearance tonight.

Billboard.com says he plans to sing "Together'' from his CD Love Is,' which will be released in May.

Studdard is one of two American Idol stars to return to the popular reality talent show on FOX this week. Hudson was expected to tape her performance yesterday, according to published reports.

Studdard is a nominee for a Dove Award, along with Mary Mary and Deitrick Haddon for their popular gospel song "Love Him Like I Do.''

The Dove Awards air April 23 from Nashville on the Gospel Music Channel.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 12:25 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

The family of the "Godfather of Gospel" has issued a statement about the condition of the Rev. Timothy Wright, pastor and gospel artist.

The family's statement is intended to put to rest rumors that Wright suffered a heart attack.

"Rev. Wright did not have a heart attack. But on Jan. 21 his heart stopped suddenly,'' the statement reads. "He was on life support for two to three weeks, but as of right now he's off life support. He is breathing on his own. He's not 100 percent responsive but he does open his eyes when we talk to him.

"He's not brain dead but the lack of oxygen to his brain while his heart was stopped has caused his response to be very slow,'' it says. "So we're praying that his response picks up and he returns back to normal. The doctors didn't give us a time table but God will do it on his own time," the statement said.

Wright was paralyzed after a July 2008 head-on accident in Pennsylvania along Interstate 81, which took the lives of his wife, Betty and their grandson, D.J. Wright. The family was on their way home to New York after attending a church conference in Detroit.

Since the accident, the singer, who suffers from fractures to his back and uses a wheelchair, was making a steady recovery and last October made a public appearance in New York.

During January's Stellar Awards taping, Kirk Franklin and others celebrated his life. His family accepted an award honoring his gospel music legacy during the Nashville event in which they alluded to changes in his condition then.

It is only now that the family has released more information.

OTHER SOURCES: BLACK VOICES

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 2:22 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (2)
                       

James Ingram, who in January released his first gospel CD, Stand (In The Light), ,talked with Heaven 600 AM personalities the Rev. Lee Michaels and Harold Pompey.

Ingram says that while many people believe this is his first foray into gospel, it isn't. He says he was raised in the church. His father was a deacon and Sunday School teacher, so faith and faith-based music have always been a part of his life.

For example, his first hit with Michael McDonald "Ya Mo Be There'' was a tribute to his faith.

Ingram says it was faith that took him from Akron, Ohio, to Hollywood where he would begin a career in music. He thought he was destined to be a musician, playing piano, or a background singer.

Instead, he says, others discovered he could really sing, a talent he had not honed in his youth.

That led to his musical ties with producer Quincy Jones, who introduced him to many established artists.

He worked with Ray Charles, Anita Baker, Viktor Lazlo, Nancy Wilson, Natalie Cole, Linda Ronstadt, Kenny Rogers and others.

He also won several Grammys - one for "One Hundred Ways" in 1981 and in 1985 for "Yah Mo Be There" with McDonald.

So how did Stand (In The Light) come about?

Ingram was asked by TVONE and RADIO ONE artist Jeff Major to come on his show to sing an original song. Ingram recorded a track called "Mercy," which Majors and station owner Cathy Hughes liked.

"Mercy'' became one of several collaborations with producer/dance choreographer/playwright Debbie Allen for this project.

Ingram and old-school artist-turned gospel artist Howard Hewett will be in concert next month in Ohio.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 11:04 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Award wining gospel artist Marvin Sapp was a featured guest on Sunday's Lift Every Voice on BET.

He was asked by host Cory "CoCo Brother" Condrey about the success of his recent hit "Never Would Have Made It,'' a song on his Thirsty CD that has launched his career to another level as a solo artist. Sapp, who won numerous awards for the song, is a nominee in the Dove Award's Artist of the Year category. The Dove Awards air April 23 on Gospel Music Channel.

Interesting highlight's of Sunday's interview with Sapp:
He plans to write a "Never Would Have Made It" moments book, based on the testimonies of the many people who have shared such moments with him.

Sapp said he had to overcome drugs and alcohol as a youth. He used pills, marijuana, and cocaine. He was a member of a church and sung in the church choir during this troublesome time in his life.

He recalled his faith conversion in July 1985.

L.L. Cool J was also featured on this week's show. He talked about how he includes faith-based messages in his rap music.

Baltimore's Rev. Jamal Bryant of Empowerment Temple did a segment called "Church Announcements,'' which emphasized the changing of the seasons and how Spring brings a newness to life.

Baltimore's Ray Lewis will be on "Lift Every Voice" some time during the season. Check with BET.COM for information.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 10:41 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

The discussion last week that many of this season's 'American Idol' contestants are Christians who either sing in the church choir or are praise and worship leaders has spurred another discussion: Does that really matter?

Apparently, those who watch the show have pretty strong feelings about the subject.

"What does their faith have to do with singing?" says Selena1 who commented on a MTV.com story about the subject on MTV.com. "Christians sing in their churches all the time in America. ... If someone does it every week, sometimes a couple of nights, then imagine the practice they get compared to others who don't. ... So of course you get a lot of singers with Christian backgrounds who are not pros but have no fear to get up and sing in front of groups."

'Idol' viewers can tune into the show at 8 tonight on Fox to see who will be eliminated. Read more about the religion debate on MTV.com.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:46 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Oprah Winfrey, a friend of BeBe Winans, apparently wants to continue talking about domestic violence, a week after she aired a show on dating and domestic violence on the heels of the Chris Brown and Rihanna incident of a month ago.

The Oprah Winfrey Show used the celebrity incident as a stepping-off point for conversations about domestic violence with former model Tyra Banks and other guests.

On Thursday's show, Winfrey will speak with men who beat their wives or girlfriends.

Interestingly enough, the previews for this week's show do not refer to the Winans incident.

Winans is a Grammy Award-winning artist who has appeared on Winfrey's show and has been invited to many of her various celebrity-invited celebrations.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:40 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Last week, when gospel artist and "Sunday Best" judge BeBe Winans made headlines for being charged with misdemeanor assault in connection with an incident at his former wife's home, BET.com news reported on the incident on its blog.

As I searched for the blog post Tuesday, I discovered that the post wasn't appearing, except for this headline: "Lord Have Mercy! BeBe Winans is Arrested.''

When you click on the link, an error page appears.

I'm wondering why the post isn't appearing on the blog. Calls to BET officials to ask about the blog post and about Winans have not been returned.

Are officials taking the "show must go on" attitude? Taping of "Sunday Best" continued last week in Atlanta.

So should Winans be removed as a judge? Or do his alleged actions against his ex warrant a comment or action by BET officials? At the very least, I think this incident does warrant a comment so that viewers know where the station stands on issues such as this.

What do you think?

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:14 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (2)
                       

Your iPhone or iPod Touch can now access new music from Israel Houghton and others in the first Christian music iPhone application from Integrity Music.

Read more about how you can hear the inspirational music in Inspire Magazine.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 2:20 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

An expert tells MTV.com that Christian music's move into the mainstream is evidenced on Fox's American Idol show and is part of the genre's transformation in the past 10 years.

A huge part of the show's viewing audience is fascinated by the talent show's artists who are either affiliated with a church choir or praise team.

"People who are Christians have a platform through 'American Idol' to write their songs and share their stories, and it doesn't have to fit in with the traditional Christian or worship genre," said CJ Casciotta.

Other observations in the MTV.com article are made by Joanne Brokaw, who writes the Gospel Soundcheck for beliefnet.com.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:52 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Bebe Winans released a statement on Friday about the domestic assault charges against him involving a February incident with his ex-wife in Nashville.

The award winning gospel artist was in Atlanta taping another edition of "Sunday Best," in which he, and Mary Mary are judges in the American-Idol like contest for aspiring gospel artists. Gospel artist Kirk Franklin is host.

"To be accused of these allegations, which arose out of a child custody right [sic] dispute and my desire to spend time with our children as court ordered, is nothing less than heart wrenching," he said in a statement released through his publicist.

"Since I choose to say nothing negative about my children's mother, I will make no comment other than to say the allegations are inconsistent with my character and the foundation upon which I was raised and I am prayerful that the matter is straightened out very soon for the sake of our children."

Read his statement in a CNN.com report, which also includes more information about the Feb. 13 incident.

BET officials, who on Thursday aired a 106 & Park special on domestic violence and teens, which referenced the Chris Brown and Rihanna domestic violence case, could not be reached for comment on Saturday.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 4:37 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (5)
                       

On his new CD Unspoken, Tonex's mouth is covered as if his words are being held hostage inside his head.

Earlier today, in an interview on WCAO Heaven 600 AM, the softspoken 30-something said he's tired of talking and instead -- after a long time away from the public eye -- he's letting his ministry and music do the work.

In more than 30 minutes, Tonex revealed to host Rev. Lee Michaels what life has been like. The artist has suffered a lot of tragedy and controversy, including the death of his father, a lawsuit, bankruptcy, record label change and a divorce.

"It was good that I was afflicted,'' he said in the 10:30 a.m. interview. "I had to be crushed. ... In order to have a testimony, you have to have a test. ... I passed, I passed, I passed.''

Tonex talked about how he has been reborn with the help of some key people, including Minister Anthony Brown of Baltimore and family. "They were like my surrogate family,'' said Tonex, who throughout the interview said he felt abandoned by his "Christian family.''

He talked about going through a full-spectrum of feelings toward God, including frustration and cold heartedness. "God kept getting on my nerves. Telling me that he loves me ... but I told You (Him) "I'm mad at You. I'm not feeling You right now.''

Tonex said God kept pursuing him quietly until he decided to be restored in his faith. "The more I rejected him, the closer he got.''

Tonex's Unspoken will be released Tuesday. He told listeners he plans to be in Baltimore at an area church. Details of that appearance will come later.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 1:03 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

BeBe Winans has been charged with misdemeanor assault in connection with a Valentine's weekend incident at his former wife's home, MSN reports.

Winans, a judge for BET's Sunday Best, an American-Idol like gospel talent show, was held and then released on bail from a Tennessee jail.

Winans, an award-winning gospel artist, and his former wife were apparently arguing over the custody of their two children when the incident occurred, according to the report.

"The victim was telling the defendant of issues with the children when he became irate. The defendant then pushed the victim to the ground," said thesmokinggun.com, quoting court records.

Debra and BeBe Winans were married for 16 years before their 2003 divorce.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 12:23 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (14)
                       

Donnie McClurkin's new CD, We All Are One (Live In Detroit),' will be in stores March 31.
But you don't have to wait until then to purchase it.

Fans can pre-order the CD at Verity Records' web site. The CD can be previewed on the site beginning March 23.

McClurkin's CD was recorded last year in Detroit, where he lived for 12 years and was an assistant pastor to the Rev. Marvin Winans. McClurkin returned to his home in New York in 2001.

“Even with Detroit’s transitions and hard situations, the church has always been a mainstay in the city,” says McClurkin in the Christian Music Daily. “The church has always been that fulcrum to balance everything together. The mayor’s wife was at the recording; it was a powerful evening. It’s all a part of the healing that goes on in Detroit and I just thought it was the right place to do a recording thematically built around being there for one another.”

To read more, click here.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 11:37 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Elvis Presley's music continues to have a life beyond the star himself.

But it isn't his rock 'n' roll music that's making headlines.

It's his faith-based gospel music, which was influenced by his love for African-American gospel church choir sounds, that is getting a king's revival of heavenly sounds.

The four-disc set "I Believe - The Gospel Masters" is a compilation of Presley's spiritual material, with every selection remastered for a cleaner and clearer sound.

Read a review of the collection in Nashville City Paper.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 11:05 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Mandisa Hundley was told during Season 5 of "American Idol" that she needed to lose weight by over-the-top judge Simon Cowell.

Hundley was hurt by the comments then. But what hurt her didn't kill her spirit.

Instead, Hundley has shed 75 pounds and is releasing her second Christian contemporary CD later this month.

She's still a fan of the show and has her own favorite on this season's "American Idol."

To read more about Hundley, her weight loss and her new CD, "Freedom,'' go to CNN.com.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 10:47 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Promoter Wade Weaver of Burlington, N.C., has left a trail of IOUs to gospel artists, a restaurant and others.

But yesterday charges against him for taking money under false pretenses were dropped, according to MSNBC.

According to the story, the charges stem from a police report in which two local business owners gave Weaver $100 each for a concert at the Ramada Inn Convention Center.

"Police said the Ramada confirmed there was no show and dropped the charges when Weaver came up with another venue," the report said.

But the saga doesn't stop there. Read more at msnbc.com.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:35 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (1)
                       

Lil Rounds of Memphis has a booming gospel voice that's been compared to Fantasia Barrino and Jennifer Hudson, former Idol alums who also got their career starts in the gospel choir.

But as a finalist, will Rounds win or be kicked off.

Read here for more on the American Idol finalists.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 12:13 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Tweet. Tweet.

Stay connected to the latest in gospel music news and entertainment at www.twitter.com/gospelrama.

Become a follower and we'll tweet to gospel music, news and notes about your favorite artists.

Tweet. Tweet.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 1:03 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

If you are a gospel artist, there seems to be plenty of ways to be discovered ...

Add to them, the Gospel Search of America (GSA), which begins early registration for its contest this month.

In October, the GSA awarded Minon Bolton of Missouri its 2008 winner. Bolton, who has recorded a CD that is expected to be released later this year, will go on a 12-city tour starting in the spring.

To read more about the contest, check out The Christian Post.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 10:02 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

"Now unto him who is able to keep you,'' said Baltimore's Jessica Greene in her acceptance speech at the Stellar Awards, which aired Sunday on Gospel Music Channel.

Greene went on to thank her manager, her record company and others.

She then dedicated her award to someone special.

"I want to dedicate this to my grandmother who is no longer here,'' said Greene.

The celebration of her first major award continues at her home church, Baltimore's Church of the Redeemed of The Lord, on March 13.

Greene wasn't the only Baltimorean to earn a Stellar Award. Empowerment Temple's Jonathan Nelson & Purpose earned three awards.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:40 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

A Michigan woman, who lost her job in January, traveled to D.C. with friends in hopes the trip would lift her spirits.

The experience did more than that for Jessica Reedy.

While in D.C., Reedy auditioned for BET's Sunday Best, an American Idol-like show that highlights gospel talent on the African-American cable station.

And after several rounds of elimination, Reedy was still standing.

"I went through five rounds in Washington, the last one before the judges," Reedy told The Saginaw News. "Usually, it's tense when you get to that point, but the women in Mary Mary were such beautiful spirits, they made you feel calm and at ease," she said.

Check out MLive.com to read more about Reedy as she prepares to be among 20 contestants on the show, which will air Sunday at 9 p.m.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:28 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Mary Mary sang "Higher Ground" in tribute to Stevie Wonder during a program honoring the artist who was awarded the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song.

The program, which aired last night on PBS, included a broad range of performances from R&B, pop and classical artists. India.Arie, Tony Bennett, Martina McBride, Will.i.am and Diana Krall were some of the performers.

President Barack Obama presented Wonder with the award. Obama said Wonder's more than four decades of music has inspired all generations, including the president and First Lady Michelle, who discovered their love of Wonder's music as children and again during their courtship.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 10:05 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (1)
                       

A choir director in Minneapolis has been charged with two counts of third degree sexual assault on a 15-year-old girl who was a member of his church group.

Gregory B. Washington, 32, was being held Tuesday on $150,000 bail. He is also on probation from an earlier conviction for which he was sentenced to 120 days in the workhouse.

According to the story in the Minneapolis Star Tribune, Washington's online biography says he has shared the stage with R&B legend Roberta Flack and the Sound of Blackness. Washington has also recorded with the awarding-winning gospel ensemble Excelsior.

Washington, choir director at Greater Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in south Minneapolis, is also director of Voices of Praise, a Minneapolis gospel group, the newspaper said.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:21 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (1)
                       

I am still listening to Tonex's last CD Out the Box even though I don't fit the demographic for those who bought the project, which some say is too "outside the box" for gospel.

The music has a joyful gospel message that's fun yet serious. Truly, one has to understand that gospel music of all genres inspires both young and old in different ways, but ultimately gives one something heavenly to grasp when all else fails.

With that said, the controversial Dove and Stellar Award winner has announced that his latest CD, "Unspoken'' is set to be released March 17.

I get the sense from a story in the Tennessean that Tonex is about to add more to his controversial mix with this new release.

This new album, according to a statement made in the Tennessean, shows him maintaining his gospel base but spreading further into the mainstream, with touchstones of R&B and dance.

"I didn't want to alienate the fan base generated from the (gospel release) Out the Box phenomenon," he said. "Even though I appreciate that album's success, I felt that there were so many people from different demographics I still had yet to reach.''

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:02 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (7)
                       

The wife of a gospel singer has been charged with attempted arson of a Chattanooga Church.

I'll let you read more on this very strange story in The Tennessean.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 3:32 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

A columnist for the Dallas Morning News wrote today that the public has little sympathy for celebrities who've done wrong.

Cases of interest: Michael Phelps, Ted Haggard, Kwame Kilpatrick, all celebrities or public figures whose mistakes have become huge headlines across the nation.

The latest, particularly of note in the black church, is that of Jermaine Jakes, son of Mega Church Bishop T.D. Jakes, who was recently charged with indecent exposure in front of a undercover detective in a Dallas park.

"Perhaps instead of trying to save the world, T.D. Jakes should spend more time trying to save his son," one snarky reader commented on the online version of the story in the Dallas Morning News. "The bright side is [that] with a mega-church, Jakes should have enough money to buy his son out of this mess!"

To read more of this story, click here.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 1:52 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (1)
                       

The "Queen of Soul" has canceled her appearance at this year's New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, which is being held in the spring.

Festival producer Quint Davis has said in various reports that Franklin decided against performing this year because of scheduling, travel issues and her high-profile activities surrounding President Barack Obama's inauguration.

"She decided not to do any more work for a while and we honor that," Davis told andPOP.com. "But, we definitely told her we want her next year. She's made it clear that New Orleans and the festival are important and that she would like to be a part of this and raising the spirit of New Orleans.''

Franklin, indeed, has had a very busy schedule since the release of her Christmas CD "This Christmas.'' She's made appearances across the United States and on television.

In January, her performance at the inauguration drew lots of attention, from the big-bowed hat she wore on that chilly day to her "My Country Tis of Thee'' performance.

Last week, she released a studio recording of "My Country Tis of Thee,'' which is available online on iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody, Napster, eMusic, GroupieTunes, Lala, Shockhound and AmieStreet.

[Source: andPOP.com]

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 4:49 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

R&B artist turned gospel singer Regina Belle is recovering from a mysterious illness that will keep her out of the public until the spring.

But that hasn't dampened her spirits.

Today, she released a statement through her manager thanking her fans and others for their outpouring of support and prayers during her time away from the public stage.

Longtime manager Brian Springle of Springle Entertainment Group said, "We have been moved by the outpouring of support for Regina. The doctors said that Regina is recovering very well. She is in great spirits.''

"We are working on numerous entertainment projects for Regina this year which will include several international performance dates,'' Springle said in a news release. "She will have a full schedule of activities this spring and is looking forward to recording her new album this year and getting back to her speaking engagements, as well as resuming her full concert schedule this fall."

If you'd like to send Belle a personal note, email her at reginabelleonline@ymail.com.

For the past year, Belle has promoted her first gospel project, Love Forever Shines, a Top-10 album that was released in May and includes her smash hit "God Is Good.''

Belle last visited Baltimore during the summer as a headlining act at The Stone Soul Picnic. One of her last public appearances was during the inauguration last month in Washington where she was one of several gospel artists at the African American Church Ball.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 2:14 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Grammy-nominated artist Detrick Haddon and his wife, Damita, have made another transition in their careers.

The gospel artists -- who last year released separate projects, Damita's No Looking Back and Deitrick's Revealed -- are now pastors of High Praise Church of Detroit.

Detroit is their hometown and birthplace.

The couple will pastor the church and continue their gospel music careers, according to a news release from publicist Darryl Lassiter.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 8:15 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Mega church pastor Bishop T.D. Jakes over the weekend issued a statement showing support for his son, who in January was charged with indecent exposure in a Dallas park.

"It is in moments like these that I am so grateful that we do not preach that we are the solution, but we look to Christ for resolution,"Jakes, pastor of The Potter's House, said in a written statement to The Dallas Morning News.

"So then, as a very human family with real issues, like many other people, we will draw from the same well of grace to which we have led others to drink and be refreshed," said the statement, which was issued Friday night.

Last month, Jermaine Jakes, 29, was accused of exposing himself in front of an undercover Dallas police detective. Read more at The Dallas Morning News .

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 8:47 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

B.B. King started his career in gospel before he became the father of Blues.

There are many artists who understand gospel blues, the mood music with hope and spiritual overtones.

That includes Sharrie Williams of Saginaw, Mich., who has a recognizable voice overseas and is trying to get that same acclaim in the United States.

Williams says her own life experiences, including drug addiction, helped her to give birth to a career in gospel blues.

Read about her trials and triumphs in the Kalamazoo Gazette.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 12:26 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

People.com reports that Grammy winner Jennifer Hudson will go on tour with R&B singer Robin Thicke, starting April 2 in Philadelphia.

Other stops on the tour include Baltimore, New York, Chicago, Detroit, Memphis, Atlanta, Las Vegas, D.C., Dallas and Los Angeles, according to Hudson's Web site. No word on dates or venues yet.

"I am so grateful -- my first Grammy and my first tour," Hudson, who won her first Grammy Sunday night, told People. "It doesn't get better than that."

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 8:31 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (2)
                       

The 20 contestants for BET's "Sunday Best" gospel singing show have been selected.

About 10,000 people auditioned in Chicago, Atlanta and D.C., to narrow the field for the show, according to EURweb.com.

The Web site asked the judges, some of whom are gospel artists, to give the finalists advice and here's what they said:

"I can clearly look back and say my sister and I simply gave our best every time. So to each contestant the winners even the ones that don’t make the audition make up your mind to give your best and give it as if it’s your last time. That’s the most important thing I can tell any artist." -- BeBe Winans

"Follow the roadmap because it’s a hit for a reason. Embellish where we can see your talent." -- Erica Campbell

"Incredible vocal ability, confidence, passion for who and what they are talking about. Something signature that says they should be the next person to spearhead the gospel movement." -- Tina Campbell

"A balance between tone and creativity. Everybody can emulate the Kim Burrell runs now, it's child's play, but if you don't have any build up to it it's useless." -- Jawn Murray

"Authenticity. We already have Byron Cage we don't need you to be WE want to hear what your gift is." -- Cheryl Jackson

"Confidence. I think that there's nothing more that sets you up for failure when you come up shrinking. I think everybody gets nervous, but you can see backbone even when people are nervous." -- Melanie Clark

"A great combination of both ministry and gift and understanding how to use both." -- Byron Cage

Read the full story at EURweb.com.

[Source: EURweb.com]

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:06 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Comedian Sinbad and gospel artists Dorinda Clark Cole and Donnie McClurkin were the hosts of last month's Stellar Awards ceremony in Nashville, which was taped for broadcast. See other photos from the event at bet.com.

The awards program aired in Baltimore last Saturday on the CW Network.

Here's the broadcast schedule for the show this week in other television markets:

Shreveport, LA XCV-CAB Tuesday, February 3rd @ 8PM
Alexandria, LA KALB-NBC Saturday, February 7th @ 11AM
Akron/Cleveland, OH WEWS-ABC Saturday, February 7th @ 1PM
Chattanooga, TN WFLI-CW Saturday, February 7th @ 1PM
Columbus/Tupelo/West Point, MS WLOV-FOX Saturday, February 7th @ 1PM
Milwaukee, WI WVTV-FOX Saturday, February 7th @ 2PM
Ft. Wayne, IN WFFT-FOX Saturday, February 7th @ 3PM
Memphis, TN WLMT-CW Saturday, February 7th @ 7PM
Baton Rouge, LA WBTR-IND Saturday, February 7th @ 8PM
Philadelphia, PA WFMZ-IND Saturday, February 7th @ 8PM
Elkhart/South Bend, IN WHME-IND Saturday, February 7th @ 9PM
Youngstown, OH WFMJ-NBC Sunday, February 8th @ 2AM
Paducah, KY WDKA-MNT Sunday, February 8th @ 12PM
Washington, D.C. WJAL-IND Sunday, February 8th @1PM
Los Angeles, CA KABC-ABC Sunday, February 8th @ 2:05 AM
Waco, TX KXXV Sunday, February 8th @ 12PM
Dayton, OH WBDT, CW Sunday, February 8th @ 1PM
Kansas City, MO KMCI-IND Sunday, February 8th @ 2PM
Louisville, KY WYCS-MNT Sunday, February 8th @ 7PM

[SOURCE: Black Gospel Promo]

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 12:30 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

BV Buzz blog on BlackVoices.com is reporting that "American Idol" winner Fantasia will get another opportunity to play Celie, the main character in The Color Purple. The show is scheduled to open at The Kennedy Center in D.C. this summer.

You may recall the controversy surrounding Fantasia, who in 2007 starred in the Broadway show but missed almost 50 performances according to the New York Post.

The play is adapted from Alice Walker's novel, which was also a big-screen movie starring Oprah Winfrey, who produced the Broadway play and is supporting this summer's run, which starts in D.C. and will go to Chicago and Atlanta.

The play touches on gospel themes, both scripted and musical. Celie's life is an ongoing spiritual conversation, which in part is captured in diary entries that start with "Dear God.''

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 10:30 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Christian and gospel artist George Beverly Shea, who sang during the Rev. Billy Graham's crusades, turned 100 and yesterday he and many of his friends, including Graham, celebrated the milestone in North Carolina.

Shea has known Graham for 70 years.

"He's been a wonderful man to be with all these years," Shea said to OneNewsNow. "I met him when he was 21 and I was 31. I was an announcer and singer at a radio station in Chicago."

Shea revived "How Great Thou Art" and he wrote "The Wonder of It All.'' He is often referred to as "America's beloved gospel singer," a spin-off of Graham's role as "America's pastor."

Shea is a Grammy winning artist, who has been nominated for the award 10 times, according to the Associated Press. The Gospel Hall of Famer has recorded more than 70 gospel albums.

Read an interview with Shea by The Associated Press.

Read about the party in Asheville, N.C, on christiannewswire.com.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 12:30 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (1)
                       

Add another February date to Hudson's comeback schedule.

The Oscar winner, who blew the audience away with her soulful version of The National Anthem at the Super Bowl, is scheduled to perform at the NAACP Image Awards on Feb. 12.

Hudson, who took time to grieve the deaths of her mother, brother and nephew, is returning to public life after about three months of seclusion.

The Chicago native is scheduled to perform Sunday at the annual Grammy Awards. Her video from her self-titled CD debuts Feb. 9.

Read more about the Image Awards from TV Guide.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 10:30 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

Jennifer Hudson made her performance on Sunday personal at the Super Bowl game in Tampa.

"She's from the church," pre-game show producer Rickey Minor told the Associated Press. "So we wanted to give it a gospel feel, use a little organ, rhythm and really give it a feel that matched Jennifer. We wanted her to emote the lyrics and connect with the song."

She did that and more in a performance that lasted about 2 minutes, 13 seconds and is being compared to Whitney Houston's Super Bowl performance in 1991, which was also in Tampa

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 12:01 PM in Gospel in the news | Permalink
                       

NFL players provided the subtext about faith and football between gospel songs such as "Souled Out'' sung by Hezekiah Walker, "God in Me'' by Mary Mary, "Never Would Have Made It'' by Marvin Sapp, and "Trust In You'' by Donnie McClurkin during the 10th Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration.

A selection by the NFL All-Star Players Choir was the highlight of the program, recorded Friday night in Tampa and which aired on ESPN Classic today. Begun 10 years ago, the gospel celebration is a vehicle for NFL players to publicly show how they carry their faith on and off the football field.

Giants' David Tyree talked about how his struggle with drugs drew him to his Christian faith. He spoke of periods of suffering and a process of purifying that led him to shine in his role as a football player and a person of faith.

Ravens' Ray Lewis related a story about his encouraging words to his teammates during a football game. "Have you forgot you who got you here. Pressure that comes in your life is to make you grow,'' he told the audience.

In another clip from the show, Lewis told the audience that "We are going to stomp. We are going to praise. And we are going to do it all night'' during the gospel celebration.

Host Mischelle Turner interviewed NFL players such as Tommie Harris of the Chicago Bears, Clifton Smith of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Jon Kitna of the Detroit Lions and many others to fill the hour with stories of faith.

ESPN analyst Shaun King, Tampa Bay Buccaneers Coach Raheem Morris and Chicago Bears Coach Lovie Smith honored former Indianapolis Colts Coach Tony Dungy for his more than 30 years in the NFL. Dungy is the first African-American coach to win a Super Bowl. Those honoring him said he was a model coach who used his faith to quietly motivate his players.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 9:59 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink | Comments (2)
                       

It's Super Bowl Sunday between the Steelers and the Cardinals.

And the celebration surrounding the big game kicks off at 8 a.m. on ESPN Classic with a "praise party" from the 10th Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration, which was taped Friday at the University of South Florida Sun Dome in Tampa.

Mary Mary, Marvin Sapp, Hezekiah Walker and Donnie McClurkin were among the featured gospel artists at the show, which included the NFL Players All-Star Choir, and a tribute for retired Indianapolis Colts coach Tony Dungy.

Baltimore Ravens' Ray Lewis was expected to participate in the evening of "Super Praise'' along with other current and fomer NFL players.

Click here for the rest of the Sunday "Super" line up of shows before the 6:30 p.m. kick off.

Posted by Karlayne Parker at 1:30 AM in Gospel in the news | Permalink