Interview: Bryan Andrew Wilson
Our concentration seems to be on the 99 and fine percent, those who fill the pews every Sunday and run up and down the aisles, but God has given us a commission to leave the ninety nine and search for the lost one... Full Interview.

Interview: Ricky Dillard
Times of discouragement will come in the life of the believer. We all get to the point when we are questioning God, asking if we are in the right place, and "where do I go from here". It happened to me; I was in a low place... Full Interview.




Recap: Karen Clark Sheard Live Recording
The evening, by all indications, would be unforgettable. You wanted to be sure that you took in all of the sites and sounds. Clark Sisters fans and Karen Clark Sheard admirers came from far and near to witness the event, held on... Full Recap



Interview: Adrienne Bailon
I'm gearing up for the release of the movie I'm In Love with a Church Girl, which is in theaters nation-wide starting Oct 18th. I'm really excited about it, we've been ... Full Interview.




Recap: Ricky Dillard & New G Live Recording
The choir was elegantly dressed in silver and black. A slew of former lead singers were positioned for "pass the mic" opportunities including Steve Jones, Keshia McFarland and Bridgette Campbell and the choir, captained by its very capable leader, launched into their... Full Recap



Feature: Best Albums of 2012
Yes, 2012 has come and gone, but of course, the music is still with us. We've put together a little summary of some of the hottest albums that may have flown under your radar (presented in no particular order). Full Feature .




Interview: Jonathan McReynolds
I grew up in the church and my family was very musically inclined. We were the type of family to sing happy birthday in three part harmony and things of that nature. We loved music. I started on the drums... Full Interview.




Interview: Anthony Brown
"Testimony" almost didn't make it on the project. The project was completed. I'd chosen the songs and finished them. In the process of thinking about the next steps I began to feel overwhelmed and God began to speak to me... Full Interview.




Interview: J Moss
Catch the audio, as J Moss spoke with GOSPELflava.com about his most recent project, V4: The Other Side. You can check it all out in our special audio interview on YouTube! Full Audio Interview.




2012 McDonald's Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour
View information and photos from the kick off of the 2012 McDonald's Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour.... Full Recap






Interview: Byron Cage
"My Refuge, My Strength", "Great & Mighty", and the second verse of "Out Of Them All" really resonates with me, on "Throne" I branched out vocally, and I love the melodic simplicity of "Troubles Away". I am just really... Full Interview.




Interview: Jason Nelson
Verity Recording artist Jason Nelson spent some time with GOSPELflava.com discussing his new project, and the direction of his career and music ministry. Check it all out in our special audio interview on YouTube! Full Audio Interview.




Recap: Delois Barrett Campbell Funeral & Celebration of Life
Family, friends and Gospel Music lovers from across the country gathered to celebrate the life of Delois Barrett Campbell on August 9th and 10th, 2011 at the Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, Illinois. Musical Tributes were offered by The Brown Sisters.... Full Recap




Interview: Dorinda Clark-Cole
"This was my first time working with Warryn Campbell on a project. Twinkie and I did a song together on this project ("Thank You"). I also worked with Asaph Ward, my longtime collaborator... Full Interview.




Interview: Donald Lawrence
Donald Lawrence always stays on the cutting edge in his writing and his music. He loves his Pastor Bill Winston's teaching and he loves his church. With his new album, "YRM (Your Righteous Mind)", Donald Lawrence spoke with GOSPELflava.com about the album and the thought of doing a Broadway play... Full Interview.




Feature Interview: I Am Brother's Keeper (Anson Dawkins interviews Eric Dawkins)
Brother duo Eric and Anson Dawkins are back on the scene with From Now On. Brothers can be similar, but of course they can also be very, very different. So check it out below as Anson Dawkins tells about his brother Eric, and then the tables are turned... Full Feature one and two.




Feature: JNewry
In this continuing series, GOSPELflava.com shines light on new independent artists. Justin Newry (who goes by the name JNewry) is a graduate of the Berklee School of Music in Boston and serves as the minister of music at Eagle Summit Christian Center in Durham, North Carolina. JNewry has decided to bring his God given gifts to the world with his debut project entitled The Beginning, an 11-track offering... Full Feature





Recap: Demetrius West & Authority Album Release Party
Demetrius West & Authority took the stage with a nice montage reflecting on the death of our Lord Jesus Christ. It was befittingly followed up with a song off of their project entitled.... Full Recap




Interview: William McDowell
GOSPELflava.com spoke with worship leader William McDowell about his new venture, and more. Full Interview





Easter Songs
Without the reality of Easter —the death, the burial and the physical resurrection of Jesus Christ, the church would simply have no reason to exist. Check out our annual survey of Easter songs... Song Survey



Interview: Mary Mary
GOSPELflava.com spoke with Mary Mary about their new album, Something Big, and also got some insight into issues as diverse as Lady Gaga, BET's Sunday Best, and haters...." Full Interview


Goo Atkins' Fashion Commentary
Something significant happened to the fashion world in 2003. Goo Atkins entered the scene as one of the most dynamic forces to ever be called stylist. Specializing in curvy figures, Goo is also a costume designer for stage and television, with clientele that includes the likes of Michelle Williams of Destiny's Child, gospel greats Mary Mary. Read on as GOSPELflava.com caught up with her.... Full Feature




Recap: Syreeta Thompson Album Release Party
There was no better way to conclude the biggest and busiest weekend in Gospel Music than attending the release party of one of Gospel's unique talents, Syreeta Thompson. Perhaps better known as the "Trumpet Lady",this is one of.... Full Recap




Roundtable: Stellar Nominations (2011)
GOSPELflava.com has asked a selection of our readership to come together in a roundtable discussion to periodically examine and discuss some of the issues, events and topics that are topping conversations. In this session, the panel examines the 2011 Stellar nominations... Roundtable



Thanksgiving 2010
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone! Several artists checked in with us to offer up their gratitude. From Mike Winans Jr. to Tye Tribbett to Dorinda Clark-Cole and more, there's clearly a spirit of giving thanks from the entire spectrum of Gospel music quarters.... Full Recap




Albertina Walker Memorial
GOSPELflava.com mourns with the Gospel community the passing of Albertina Walker. We've prepared a tribute for The Queen of Gospel music.

• Recap and photos of funeral
• Memorial and Artist Quotes
• Visual Discography (partial)

Verizon's How Sweet the Sound Tour Stops: RECAPS
GOSPELflava.com recaps several of Verizon's How Sweet The Sound tour that is moving across the country. Check out the recaps, photos and videos!

• Tour Recaps

Recap: Birthday Celebrations
Chicago celebrated the birthdays of Rev. Clay Evans and his sister, Dr. Loudella Evans Reid, making it a night to remember.... Full Recap




Walter Hawkins Memorials
GOSPELflava.com mourns with the Gospel community the passing of Bishop Walter Hawkins. We've prepared some tributes for this legend of Gospel music.

• Memorial and Artist Quotes
• Epilogue (Take Me Back column)

Recap: VaShawn Mitchell Live Recording
With great anticipation, the eyes of the industry focused on the Atlanta area where VaShawn Mitchell & Friends displayed the latest in his storied career last August (2009), as Higher Living Christian Church played host to Mitchell's latest live recording.... Full Recap




Father's Day Songs
With Father's Day fast approaching, the obvious question is, "where is the list of songs devoted to fathers"? It's a valid question. We’ve done a bit of looking, and it seems that there just aren’t that many out there! Check out what we've got so far.... Feature



Interview: Forever Jones
GOSPELflava.com took some time to speak with Kim Jones, mother of The Jones Family, known as forever JONES, delivers their debut project on EMI Gospel, and asked her some questions about her family..." Insider Interview


Editorial: Gospel vs. Secular - The Next Chapter
As the adage goes, the more things change, the more they stay the same. For as long as there has been recorded music, there has been the age old debate within the faith community. Can a believer be effective singing "secular" music...Feature



Roundtable: Karen Clark Sheard's "Prayed Up"
GOSPELflava.com has asked a selection of our readership to come together in a roundtable discussion to periodically examine and discuss some of the issues, events and topics that are topping conversations. In this session, the panel examines the new single, "Prayed Up", from Karen Clark Sheard... Roundtable



Recap: Jonathan Nelson Live Recording (2010)
Passion, energy, and intimate worship are the words to describe the atmosphere of the Faith Center in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, as thousands gathered for the second live recording of Jonathan Nelson and Purpose, produced for Integrity Music by Grammy award winning Aaron Lindsay. The feeling in the room was that... Full Recap


Interview with Marvin Sapp
"I feel more pressure than I feel nervous. "Never Would Have Made It" is a phenomenon in gospel music history. What has happened with that record may never happen again," admits Sapp. "I wasn't really trying to follow that as much as I was trying to make sure that with my next project, I didn't alienate my base. I've built up a wonderful following and I know what they like..." Interview


Behind The Scenes with 21:03
21:03 has delivered hits such as "You" and "Cover Me", which featured Smokie Norful, J. Moss, and Fred Hammond, making a major impact in both radio and video platforms. GOSPELflava.com caught up with the Detroit-based group to get a sneak peek at their forthcoming junior release...." Interview


Recap: Hope for Haiti Concert (Feb, 2010)
Rev. Charles Jenkins of Chicago enlisted the services of Reverend Senator James T. Meeks, pastor of the Salem Baptist Church of Chicago and gospel's Donald Lawrence and Ricky Dillard to assist in Chicago Hope for Haiti, a benefit concert and telethon held on Monday, February 8th, 2010..."

• Full Recap
• Photo Gallery

 

Confessions of a Gospel Publicist: JoJo Pada
GOSPELflava.com is excited to join together with our media colleagues in celebrating one our favorite industry execs, Jojo Pada. The year 2010 marks fifteen years in the business for her and she celebrates by giving us a gift. Along with our fellow media sites, we publish part one of a three-part series on the role PR plays in gospel....

• Feature
• Interview with JoJo Pada

 

Photos and Experience from the 25th Annual Stellar Award Weekend (2010) —  GOSPELflava.com was there. Re-visit the surrounding events and the live taping by checking out our recaps and hundreds of photos.

• Recap: Taping of the Awards
  
• Recap: Bonnerfide Radio Launch Party
  
• Recap: BMI Gospel Trailblazer Salute
  

 

Roundtable: The Gospel Response to Haiti
GOSPELflava.com has asked a selection of our readership to come together in a roundtable discussion to periodically examine and discuss some of the issues, events and topics that are topping conversations. In this session, a look is taken at how he Gospel community should respond to the Haitian earthquake tragedy.... Roundtable



Tribute: The Mighty Clouds of Joy
If you think quartet, you'll quickly think of The Mighty Clouds of Joy. How could you not, when the group is still going strong after 50 years? Catch our tribute to this legendary group..." Tribute



Studio Session: Artists United For Haiti
Kirk Franklin assembled numerous award-winning gospel music artists in Nashville's Quad Studios to lend their voices to "Are You Listening," a song they all hope will inspire those devastated as well as raise much needed funds for Haiti..." Full Feature



Recap: BET's Celebration of Gospel (2010)
For this year's "Celebration of Gospel" (2010) on BET (hosted by Steve Harvey), GOSPELflava.com asked a trio of our readers to sit down as panelists and take some notes during the show. Nakiyah Hayling, Danielle West and Martin Williams put their thoughts together..." Full Recap



Recap: Marvin Sapp Live Recording (2009)
Marvin Sapp recording his next project, live in Grand Rapids, in October 2009, and GOSPELflava.com was in the house. Check out the recap, including a full gallery pictorial..." Photo Feature


Recap: The Year in Gospel (2009)
We've polled the offices here at GOSPELflava.com and come up with our collective list of top Gospel happenings of 2009. Whether that be album releases, trends, or events, these are things that might have missed if you lived on another planet..." Full Recap




Open Letter from Chris Squire: To Tonex and Kevin Bond
Wilmington Chester Mass Choir director and CEO Chris Squire was moved by the recent passings of the mothers of both Tonéx and producer Kevin Bond. He told GOSPELflava.com that "I lost my mom in March 2008. If you can post this letter, maybe it can encourage them and others who have lost their moms." We pass on this open letter to all. You can read it by linking here.... Open Letter (PDF format)


Christmas Gift Guide
Yes, we have it all down for you. Your guide to gifting Gospel music this Christmas. Or take it into 2010, since we all know there's birthdays around the corner. Check out our suggestions.... Full Feature




Recap: Deeper Level Conference (2009)
Each day opened with a general session where Israel Houghton and the New Breed team, under the direction of Daniel Johnson, endeavored to take us to a new place of worship. Several songs were ministered from the..." Photo Feature


Audio Feature: BeBe & CeCe Winans
GOSPELflava.com is pleased to present an exclusive opportunity to hear the single "A Reason To Dance", from BeBe & CeCe Winans' upcoming album, Still. Read more about the famous duo and their album below and be sure to listen to the full length audio! Feature


Interview: Fred Hammond
GOSPELflava.com's Gerard Bonner caught up with Fred Hammond following the recent taping of Bobby Jones Gospel to briefly chat about the new album. Check out this exclusive interview.

• Interview
• Digital Audio Postcard

Recap: Picnic at the Pavillion (2009)
This year's event took place on June 20, 2009 at the NTelos Pavilion in Portsmouth, VA and featured an impressive lineup that featured Israel & New Breed, Hezekiah Walker, Maurette Brown Clark, James Fortune & FIYA, The Williams Brothers..." Photo Feature


Interview: J Moss
GOSPELflava.com's Gerard Bonner spent some time with the artist that some simply refer to as "the voice". J Moss has been in the industry since back when he was a lad, but it's 2009 now, and this marks the delivery of his third solo project. Check out this exclusive two-part video interview. Interview




Interview: Melinda Watts
"The auditions were crazy," says Melinda Watts. "There were thousands of singers in L.A. during the auditions and they were such amazing singers. Honestly, I didn't think I would be selected. It was amazing to see the people and the spirit that was there. The process went really well. I actually got...." Full Interview




Recap: Jonathan Nelson Farewell Concert (2009)
Jonathan Nelson said goodbye to Baltimore in concert format, as he re-positions to Florida. Check out the full recap, with interview and photos...

• Feature
• Direct Gallery Link

Recap: Syreeta Thompson Live Recording (2009)
Trumpeter Syreeta Thompson wowed the Windy City in her July 2009 live recording. Check out the full recap...

• Feature
• Direct Gallery Link

Recap: Jessica Greene Celebration (2009)
Jessica Greene celebrated her 2009 Stellar Award for New Artist, joining with friends and family her record label (Habakkuk Music Group) for a joyous evening. Check out the full recap...

• Feature
• Direct Gallery Link

Interview: Coko Clemons
"I learned that I have to get over people and I have to do what I know God has called me to do," acknowledges Coko. "It took me a minute. My feelings got hurt a little but I'm over the people right now. If you like me, you like me. If you don't, you don't. I'm still here...." Full Interview




Recap: Israel & New Breed Live Recording
Can't get enough of Israel & New Breed? Check out the full recap of their last recording session before their new release hits later this year...

• Feature
• Direct Gallery Link

Editorial: The Passing of Michael Jackson
Ok. So most may ask the question why a gospel website would spend any time covering "The King of Pop"? Well, Michael Jackson was more than just that, and his influence within the gospel music industry runs far deeper than most can imagine. Jackson's musical accomplishments are legendary and nearly iconic....Feature



Recap: JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise Live Recording
On March 15, 2009, the eyes of the gospel community shifted to Bridgeport, Connecticut for the fifth recording of the Stellar nominated aggregation, J.J. Hairston and Youthful Praise. Check out the full recap...

• Feature
• Direct Gallery Link

Feature: Mary Mary Video Shoot
GOSPELflava.com was behind-scenes at the recent video shoot of Mary Mary's single, "God In Me". Check it out!!

• Feature
• Direct Gallery Link

Feature: Top Albums of 2008 That You Slept On
More than a few albums may have escaped you over the past twelve months. Here's your opportunity to dig beyond the top charters to find some absolute gems. Some of these projects weren't distributed nationally, or perhaps just weren't on your favourite... Feature




Feature: Top Artists of 2008
The year gone by was eventful in many ways. In terms of Gospel, here's a list of the top artists in the genre, based on their activity over the past twelve months. Feature




Feature: Behind the Lens of Jeffrey Grant-Clark
GOSPELflava.com is pleased to bring you the world as seen behind the lens of Jeffrey Grant-Clark, Vice President, Promotions/Artist Relations for Gospel music powerhouse Zomba Gospel. Most recently, we feature pics of the Radio One Gospel Cruise. Check it out!

• Feature
• Direct Gallery Link

Recap: Donald Lawrence & Company Live Recording
Living Word Christian Center located in Forest Park (a sprawling suburb outside of Chicago, Illinois) was the location for The Law of Confession, Donald Lawrence's live CD/DVD recording, held on July 30th. Check out the full recap... Feature




Analysis: The Marvin Sapp Phenomenon
Some would argue that the success of Marvin Sapp this year is the result of a great song. Others would say that it's just a matter of great timing. Perhaps all of those are true. However, could it be that the secular marketplace is actually READY to receive the message of Christ via song? Let's examine this theory...." Full Analysis




Interview: CeCe Winans
CeCe Winans' vocal gifting that afforded her the ability to switch it up with different styles of gospel, from traditional to praise and worship. She attributes this likeability brand to is simply "being who you are. Number one, I think people see who I am. Two, I've been doing this.." Interview




Interview: 21:03
"Sometimes, even when we are about to do a show, some may say about us, "OK, there are those kids. What are they about to do now? Are they about to jump around and dance?" It's actually different when we go on the stage or deliver a word. The anointing does fall and then people's minds are changed. So now it's more like 'There are those dancing boys who can sing and bring a message.' So we..." Interview




Interview: Alvin Slaughter
"The success that I've had is because we have tried to minister songs that speak to the hearts and lives of the people. There are more doors that are open than you could ever go through. I got inspired again when I figured I could sing those songs that would help people, especially in these times when there is so much going on. I think all of us have a job to be able to look back at our... " Interview




Recap: Tye Tribbett Release Party
In celebration of the release of Tye Tribbet & G.A.'s album release, some of Philadelphia's best gospel ministers showed up to join Tribbett and GA in this exciting event. And, of course, GOSPELflava.com was in the house. Gospel artists including Da T.R.U.T.H., John Cook, Tia Pittman, James Hall,.." Feature




Recap: Picnic in the Park (2008)
Arguably, one of the largest events on the East Coast all year, the Picnic at the Park was headlined by Tye Tribbett & GA along with CeCe Winans. Check out the exclusive video interviews and image gallery..." Interview




Mother's Day Songs
There have been numerous Gospel albums geared to mother, in one way or another, with Shirley Caesar's I Remember Mama being one of the most popular ones. Check out our survey of Mother's Day songs... Song Survey



Recap: Charmaine Swimpson Birthday
Charmaine Swimpson, background vocalist for Kirk Franklin, celebrated her 25th birthday in style with a Gospel Celebration for the world to see. Over a thousand well-wishers showed support and were treated to one of the most exciting celebrations of the year... Photo Feature



Interview: Ray Chew
Amid all of his incredible accolades and credits, Chew has a special place for BET's Celebration of Gospel. "This is my most important show," admits Chew. "This is a calling from God for me. I'm a member of Community Baptist Church in Englewood, New Jersey, under Dr. Lester Taylor. All of my musical notes are guided by God.... Interview




Classic Top 12 Christmas Songs
Looking for an alternative from the standard Christmas music fare? Try these twelve classic gospel songs on for size. Use your favorite search engine to find reissue CDs, or maybe even the original vinyl, on which these songs can be found... Feature




The Making of Kirk Franklin's New Album
The album was originally supposed to be the soundtrack for the motion picture "Church Boy," a story loosely based on Franklin's life story struggles and triumphs - of the Forth Worth, TX-born gospel star who, against all odds, made a way out of no way. But when shooting for the film was abruptly postponed, the rug was pulled out from under Franklin, affecting not only his life but that of his family and his ministry... Interview




Interview: Dr. Henry Panion, III
Producer, composer, arranger, orchestrator, conductor, and educator, Dr. Panion brings a diverse range of experience to the table, having worked with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, and Chaka Khan; jazz luminaries Ellis Marsalis, Jonathan Butler and many more. Now with Live From Hawaii, Dr. Panion has set his sights on something a little different. GOSPELflava.com spoke with the maestro to find out a little bit more... Interview




Interview: Pastor Marvin L. Winans
"I hope that in all of my writings, I have been honest," says Marvin Winans. "I'm going to take a leap and say that I have. I think that has been the success of The Winans, in that we have been honest. It is so important for us to be transparent. People know what is real and they know what is fake...."

• Full Interview
• Insider Interview

Interview: Israel Houghton (2007)
"T Bone and I were talking backstage at the Grammys a few weeks before the recording and I was telling him about the song. He was telling me about some stuff that he was doing and he starting singing in this Cuban-type voice. I was like, "That's just what this song needs. Just come and do that...."

• Interview
• New Breed Members

Recap: Tye Tribbett Live Recording (2007)
Tye Tribbett and G.A.'s two-day recording began at The Rock Church International, which seated a standing room only crowd of over 5,500 attendees who were in extreme anticipation for an incredible move of God . Check out our recap, and full access photo gallery of the event. Feature




Event: GOSPELflava.com 10th Anniversary / Mahalia Jackson Birthday Celebration
GOSPELflava.com will celebrate its 10th Year Anniversary in conjunction with the 95th birthday of the undisputed Queen of Gospel Music, Mahalia Jackson, at the birthplace of Gospel music, Chicago. The event is slated for October 12-14, 2007. Read more on the Info Page




Recap: Texas Holy Hip Hop Achievement Awards (2007)
The 6th Annual Texas Holy Hip Hop Achievement Awards were held June 22-23rd, 2007 at Copperfield Church in Houston. GOSPELflava.com's Dwayne Lacy was in the house. Check out the performance recaps and award summary..." Recap




Interview: Tye Tribbett
Tye Tribbett & G.A. are preparing for their third recording session for Sony. GOSPELflava.com caught up with Tye for a few informal, brief moments to discuss the new session, and to gain some insight into recent events... Interview




Book Excerpt: Do-It-Yourself Publicity
Phyllis Caddell shares the secret of the publicist in her book, Do-It-Yourself Publicity: For Those Too Cheap or Too Broke To Hire a Publicist. Check out the exclusive excerpts from the book: Full Feature



Interview: Da' T.R.U.T.H.
"What can happen with people like myself who have been rooted and grounded in the right stuff is that once you get to a certain place, your heart can become detached from what you were established in. In theory, you can continue to say all of the right stuff but your heart..." Interview




Recap: Brenda Jefferson Release Party
Pastor Brenda Jefferson hosted a first-class weekend as she released her debut project in Tampa, Florida. Sharing her testimony and heart for ministry, the event was an opportunity to get to know and feel the power behind her brand new project..." Interview




Interview: The Craig Brothers
"My brother and I took leadership of the choir. The choir continued to record, sometimes with James Cleveland and sometimes on our own. My brother and I would always do a song on the VOT recordings. They were received well. James would always listen and tell us ..." Interview


Interview: Darlene McCoy
It was around 2002. I had been singing and doing a lot of things in church and my husband had a conversation about it. He said, "Honey, you should really work on a record..." Interview




Book Excerpt: I Am Well Able
Elder Louise Cage writes I Am Well Able, a book that shares her personal testimony of the trials and triumph of being a single parent. She opens the book of her life with her three children, including gospel’s own Byron Cage... Full Feature



Interview: Martha Munizzi & Mary Alessi
Twin sisters Mary Alessi and Martha Munizzi have embarked on twined, but separate paths as solo Gospel artists. They make look alike, but you'll see from their joint responses to our exclusive Insider Interview below, that they don't necessarily think alike.. Insider Interview


Interview: Patti Labelle
I was 8 months pregnant and went on stage wearing a pair of huge bloomer pants. By about the 3rd song, Sarah and Nona told me to run backstage and change – they realized I had put both of my legs in one of those huge pant legs. The pants were so big I didn’t realize that..." Insider Interview


Book Excerpt: When Women Worship
Gospel artist Mary Alessi and Amie Dockery author When Women Worship: Creating an Atmosphere of Intimacy with God. In this excerpt, Mary shares the testimony of a young woman who is living through a difficult period in her life resultant of some mistakes made by her.... Full Feature



Recap: Tribute To Al "The Bishop" Hobbs
Industry friends joined together on Saturday, January 13, 2006 in Nashville to honor Al “The Bishop” Hobbs, and help celebrate with him the acknowledgement of his 50 years of service to the Gospel music industry.... Full Tribute



Column: Walter Hawkins - A Look Back
I am not alone in my declaration that Walter Hawkins is a gift to the body of Christ: a songwriter and arranger, musician, producer and somebody’s “songster” (old folks’ word for ‘good singer’, derived from hanging around people in the COGIC church), with some card-carrying bona fide..." Full Column



Discography: Walter Hawkins
Find it hard to keep track of all the Walter Hawkins albums that are out there? Get mixed up between Love Alive III, Take Courage and Love Alive II? Not sure what labels he was on? Sort all that out by checking with our exhaustive discography of Walter Hawkins albums, complete with trivia and album covers to guide you..." Discography



Editorials: Valentines Day
We're bringing back some chestnuts from the past. GOSPELflava.com celebrates our 10th year anniversary in 2007, and we thought it would be good to revisit some of our most popular features over the past decade. Check out these still very relevant editorials concerning issues many face on Valentines Day:

• Love, The Other Four Letter Word
• Love, A Word that Comes and Goes
• How Deep Is Your Love?

Interview: PAJAM
"We were like "Let's narrow it down to some of the big Christian Praise and Worship heats. Let's use the ones that have already been tested and sung in churches. Let's narrow it down to about 25 songs." We just started to go through those songs and we were ...." Full Interview



Recap: The Soul Seekers Live Recording
Proving that they have what it takes to jostle as front runners in Gospel music, members Teddy Campbell, Warryn Campbell, Nisan Stewart, John "Jubu" Smith, Gerald Haddon, Charlie Bereal, Craig Brockman and Eric Seats brought the enthusiastic crowd to their feet time and again. Read all about it, and check out the photos.... Full Recap



Recap: Ricky Dillard & New G Live Recording
Ricky Dillard & New G left their comfort zone of Chicago to travel to Toronto, Canada for the recording of their seventh album. Read all about it, and check out the photos.... Full Recap



Gospel Preview 2007
Like 2006, the new year 2007 holds much promise for Gospel music, along with a degree of uncertainty. Not a year for the faint of heart, here is a rundown of what to look for.... Full Feature



Gospel Recap 2006
So much has transpired in Gospel over the year 2006. We put the spotlight on some of the more notable happenings of the past twelve months, looking at everything from trends, charts, new signings, retirements and a lot more.... Full Feature



These Are A Few of Their Favorite Things...
Dozens of artists this year have let GOSPELflava.com in on what they find especially wonderful about Christmas. Check it out below. These are some of their favorite things...." Full Interview



Interview: Coko
"I have a lot of fans that are telling me that they have never even listened to gospel music and will listen now that I have a record coming out," says Coko. "I think that’s awesome...." Full Interview



Recap: Prenestine Williams-Porter Release Party
Detroit’s own Prenestine Williams-Porter celebrated the release of her first album, World Wide God, together with style amongst her closet friends, family, and assorted members of the Gospel media community... Full Recap



Interview: Dave Hollister
God has called me to be real. Even in R&B I was always real and you could always tell where I was in my life from my music. I just felt like I had to be the same way in Gospel. Who said that Christians...." Full Interview



Top 10 Fred Hammond Hits
The man has made his mark on Gospel and beyond. GOSPELflava.com will attempt to narrow his powerful songs to a top ten list. And we do that twice:

• Part I (Gerard Bonner's Top 10)
• Part II (Dwayne Lacy's Top 10)

Interview: Joy Enriquez and Rodney Jerkins
"I have a job. My job requires me to be in the studio with a lot of different artists. One thing that I practice is not to get caught up in the artists, because you can get star-struck in the studio. I walk in there...." Full Interview



Interview: V3
"Love Makes the World Beautiful", was produced by Antonio Neal, who is just a great writer. He creates such a visual picture of what is going on in the world today. It seems to be getting worse in the world. The song is just saying that God's love is going to...." Full Interview



Interview: Lucinda Moore
"I’ve been saying this everywhere I go, “It’s your ministry, it’s your vision!” It’s not the label’s job to create who you are. It is the label’s job to back you up. I thank Tyscot Records for being a major support to me. But the fact of the matter is, one of the major things that..." Full Interview



Jazzy Jordan's Music Business 101
Veteran Gospel industry executive Jazzy Jordan stops by GOSPELflava.com to share his experiences from over twenty five years of music business. Jordan now heads up the Jordan Entertainment Group, and has recently...." Full Article



Interview: Marcus Cole
"God has never called artists but He’s always called Levites. What we are doing is in the Levitical order of priests and worship, which is to prepare the people for the next phase of their lives. When we came into this industry, some of us, not all of us, heard the clarion call of God. What we were actually...." Full Interview



Song in Word: "Incredible Praise, Incredible God" by JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise
In this continuing series, we break down the lyrics of a particular song as it relates to the Word of God. It's Song in Word. In this fourth segment, Troy McIntosh examines "Incredible Praise, Incredible God", the choir hit from JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise......" Full Article



Clark Sisters Stuff
Hankering for another album from one of the Clark Sisters? Can't wait for the Clark Sisters Reunion album to release? Whet your appetite by checking out the mass of projects the famous group of sisters has put together over the past several years. Click Here


Recap: The Clarks Sisters Live Recording
In an historic event, The Clark Sisters reuninted for a live recording, held in July, 2006 in Houston. Check out the recap, together with photos, as Twinkie, Dorinda, Karen and Jacky brought it all together one last time. Recap




Marvin Sapp Goes to Nova Scotia
Some time ago, Floyd Colley, one of GOSPELflava.com’s loyal readers, entered one of the many contests that we run from time to time. Colley tells his story... Feature





Interview: Joey Kibble of Take 6
"All the writing on this project has come from the heart. Man, the many personal issues that we have been through. I mean everything: balancing family and career. Allowing yourself to be honest enough that it speaks to people. Being honest is hard. It’s opening yourself up and to be transparent to the people...." Full Interview



Interview: Kierra "Kiki" Sheard
I really love being a role model. I love being an example for the youth. At the same time, being a teenager, there are some things I might do that I have to be careful of, because of the doors that God has opened..."

• Full Interview
• Insider Interview

Recap: Vickie Winans Recording
GOSPELflava.com was in the house as Vickie Winans recorded in Chicago for her upcoming album, Woman to Woman: Songs of Life. Check the recap and photo collection. Recap




Video: New Direction
The song is "I Came To Jesus", and it's on the new album from New Direction, titled Send The Praise. Check out the video stream. Video Stream



Interview: Sean Simmonds
"God Bless the Ghetto" is basically a prayer for the ghetto. I grew in what I like to reference as lower class living. You don't have the luxuries of life. Looking on the outside...." Full Interview



Recap: Fred Hammond Recording
GOSPELflava.com traveled to this year's GMA Week, hanging out with new artist Tonya Baker, allowing us to gain insight on the benefits of attending this conference from the standpoint of an independent artist..." Full Tour Recap



Recap: GMA Week
GOSPELflava.com traveled to this year's GMA Week, hanging out with new artist Tonya Baker, allowing us to gain insight on the benefits of attending this conference from the standpoint of an independent artist..." Full Tour Recap



Tribute: Dr. Charles Fold
GOSPELflava.com pays tribute to Gospel innovator and pioneer, the legendary Dr. Charles Fold, who passed away at his home in Cincinnati on April 7th, 2006 after a period of illness....." Full Interview



Interview: Mary Mary
From leading praise and worship in church, to a recording contract, to a movie debut, Stephanie Dotson has had quite a whirlwind of an entrée into the music industry. For proof that miracles still do happen, one need not look any further than....." Full Interview



Recap: Hero Tour
Kirk Franklin, who came out to a revolutionary video presentation, set things up to go even deeper. Backed by his vocal crew, he launched the party in a serious way, entering the arena through the crowd, and starting off with several of his finest works..." Full Tour Recap



Interview: Stephanie Dotson
From leading praise and worship in church, to a recording contract, to a movie debut, Stephanie Dotson has had quite a whirlwind of an entrée into the music industry. For proof that miracles still do happen, one need not look any further than....." Full Interview



Interview: Martha Munizzi
"When it was time to make this new record, we were deciding the next steps we were going to take. I just prayed and I said, “Lord you’re going to have to put the right producer in my heart.” Noel came to my mind, so my husband Dan and I talked about it, and really, we didn’t discuss anyone....." Full Interview



Audio: Stephanie Dotson
Gospel Dream Winner Stephanie Dotson steps to the plate with a 13-song debut. Read all about her, and be sure to check out the audio clips! Full Feature



Recap: NBA All-Star Gospel Celebration
The NBA All-Star weekend would not be complete without Monica Bacon's All-Star Gospel Celebration, held this year at the Fountain of Praise. The night of February 17, 2006 was full of some of the top artists in Gospel along with ..." Full Recap



Interview: J. Moss
"Whatever God is doing with me right now I'm just riding the wave. Whatever it is, however he wants to use me or portray me, whether it's the producer, the cousin of, the big brother to, the third piece of PAJAM, the artist, the voice, whatever it is..."

• Full Interview
• Insider Interview

Editorial: Hip Hop Under Siege?
Since its inception, there has been an ongoing controversy relative to the validity and authenticity of the holy hip hop genre. Several strident activist groups have recently fueled this debate to an even greater level, causing a most unusual divide within the body of Christ over this... Full Editorial


BLACK HISTORY MONTH FEATURE:
Tribute: Rev. Robert Ballinger
Rev. Robert Ballinger’s style is a combination of infectious, rowdy piano and compelling tenor vocals. Together, his two talents make for some great moments, especially when he put his knack for putting scriptural lyrical quips and zingers to work...." Full Interview



Recap: Live Experience Tour '06
Lisa McClendon embarked on a two-month tour titled "The Live Experience ‘06", which features McClendon along with partners in soul, Leon Timbo and Adrianne Archie. The highly anticipated tour rolled through Norfolk ..." Full Recap



BLACK HISTORY MONTH FEATURE:
Tribute: The Famous Gay Sisters
In 1946, the sisters went to New York and cut their first record, "Just a Little Talk with Jesus" and "The Old Rugged Cross" on the Dauphin record label. They continued to perform and soon caught the attention of Herman Lubinsky, President of Savoy Records, and were signed to the label..." Full Interview



Recap: Super Bowl Gospel Celebration
The Seventh Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration took place on Friday, February 3rd at the Masonic Temple in Detroit Michigan. Legendary artist such as The Clark Sisters and The Winans participated together with Gospel greats Hezekiah Walker and Mary Mary, and special guest Patti Labelle. GOSPELflava.com was in the house ..." Full Recap



Interview: Lisa McClendon
"I think my responsibility is just to keep doing what I’m doing. The Scriptures say that they overcame by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimonies. I feel like I would be robbing myself, God, the people of God, and everybody if I weren’t an artist that was transparent....." Full Interview



Interview: Karen Clark Sheard
"When I got done with my last recording, The Heavans Are Telling, I honestly thought, where can I go from here? Every CD I find there is more in me, something else blossoms and when I listen to this..."

• Full Interview
• Insider Interview

Interview: Dorinda Clark-Cole
Dorinda Clark Cole has never been busier, her 'in-demand' quotient sky-high for concert appearances. Fresh of her sophomore album, The Rose of Gospel on GospoCentric Records, the Clark Sister with jazz-inflected vocals continues to dominate the Gospel airwaves as well. GOSPELflava.com spent some time with her to discuss some issues...." Full Interview



Interview: Vickie Winans
"All the cities [in between] were phenomenal! I just couldn’t believe all the support we received from the people and Chrysler!" Winans exclaimed. Each stop on the tour was saturated with talented hopefuls vying to be the next..."

• Full Interview
• Insider Interview

Recap: Tye Tribbett Live Recording
The second segment featured G.A. in graduation robes (most of the project is themed around a classroom). This set continued a spirit of victorious worship as Tye Tribbett debuted several ballads, including “God’s Been So Good To Me”, which was a..." Full Interview



Interview: Byron Cage
"When I went to DC, I almost felt like 'How can I sing when I'm in a strange land?'", admits Cage. "I had no friends or family there. I was there on assignment by God to help the Ebenezer AME church get to a new place. It was the challenge of understanding the DC vibe, if I can call it that..."

• Full Interview
• Insider Interview

Interview: Da' T.R.U.T.H.
Oftentimes we forget that scripture tells us to "let another man praise you" and that we are "treasure in earthen vessels." God detests pride (praising and boasting in one's self). Christian hip-hop is guilty of perpetuating arrogant views. The way that we offset..." Full Interview



Audio: Gospo Classics & Men of Gospo
GospoCentric Records has pulled together some of their choices material to deliver two new compilations: Men of Gospo Vol. 1 and Gospo Classics Vol. 1. Check out the audio clips from both keepers. Full Feature



Feature: Gospel Writer, George Jordan
Many of today's younger Gospel fans may not quickly recognize the name of George Allen Jordan. Anointed preacher, gifted singer and veteran songwriter for over forty years, George Jordan is responsible for many of the Gospel’s most enduring songs, including "Jesus Can Work It Out" —one of the most..." Full Feature



Interview: Myron Butler
"I knew that God had called for this to happen. The world doesn't need another CD. There are more than 100 million CDs out. I knew that God had called us to be an example of reconciliation to the Body. You can have disagreements, disputes or whatever you call it, but if the foundation is love, then that..." Full Interview



Interview: T-Bone
"Obviously doing full-time Gospel music, you don’t ever think that a lot of these people have ever heard of you. I remember being at Beyonce’s birthday party and having cats like Killer Mike, Outkast, and others telling me that they have love for me. Mack 10 has a lot of my albums. It’s amazing. So, I said ‘God let me shine for you’ and I started putting my touch..." Full Interview



Interview: Bil Carpenter
"It's the rich history that is dying with these artists when we don't write it down. I hate that there are no significant interviews on gospel singers such as The Davis Sisters or Edna Gallmon Cooke in existence. As an example, I interviewed the Rev. Willie Morganfield who made some great..." Full Interview



Interview: Rob Hardy
"A few years later, our executive producer, Holly Davis Carter, put me in a room with Fred Hammond. The result of that conversation took the initial concept that I had and took it to another place. That’s really what laid the foundation for The Gospel.." Full Interview



JOURNAL: Kirk Franklin
Kirk Franklin drops frequent tidbits —photos, text and audio, as he related his street week activities, with the launch of his new album, Hero. Listen to the music!! Kirk Franklin Journal.



Interview: Dorinda Clark-Cole
"I was over at my sister Karen’s house. This is when she was recovering from her sickness. Alex was over there with the two of us and her husband. I said, 'Alex, I want you to come over here and hear this song.' So I played the song on the piano..." Full Interview



Recap: Caravans Reunion Recording
It was Gospel music history, as the Legendary Caravans reunited for a reunion recording at the West Point Baptist Church in Chicago. Deloris Washington, Inez Andrews, Albertina Walker and Dorothy Norwood, they were all there, together with myriads of people who wanted to witness the event.... Recording Recap.



Recap: Chicago Remembers Katrina Concert
Gospel music lovers packed Chicago's 10,000 seat House of Hope on September 11, 2005 for a gospel concert aiding the victims of Hurricane Katrina. The concert drew a Who's Who of Chicago preachers, singers and musicians, including Albertina Walker, Rev. Clay Evans... Concert Recap.



JOURNAL: George Huff
Join recording artist and New Orleans native George Huff as he recap his daily events leading to the relese of his debut album on Word Records. George Huff Journal.



AUDIO: Israel and New Breed
Israel and New Breed deliver Live From South Africa, their upcoming project, on October 25, 2005. Integrity Gospel presents the new single "Not Forgotten", along with a special message: Audio Page.



AUDIO: CeCe Winans
With Purified, her trailblazing seventh solo album, CeCe Winans combines the transformative power of gospel music with heart-stopping pop, street-smart R&B and infectious dance-floor rhythms to create her most compelling set of songs to-date. Check out the information and hear the streaming audio for three songs from the new project. Audio Page.



Column: Twinkie Clark - A Look Back
Wait a minute. Twinkie? 50? It’s almost unimaginable. Where has the time gone? It seems that it was only yesterday that The Clark Sisters burst on the scene with their first album..." Full Column

Gospel Around the World— Germany 
In our continuing series exploring Gospel music around the world, we throw the spotlight on Germany in a double-feature that looks at both the history and the influences on this European nation that now boasts literally hundreds of Gospel choirs:

• See History of Gospel Music in Germany.
• See Influences on Gospel Music in Germany
• See previous segments of the series

 

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