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Micah Stampley To Record Live Album —
Two-time Stellar award nominee Micah Stampley is gearing up for his next recording, slated to be a live effort. The CD & DVD recording takes place at The Greater Travelers Rest Baptist Church in Decatur, GA on Aug. 15, 2008. The album, titled Ransomed, will release on Stampley's Interface Records imprint with production from Grammy and Stellar award winning producer Kevin Bond. (July 23, 2008)
O'Landa Draper's Associates Reunion Concert —
The Associates, the famed choir of the late O'Landa Draper held a reunion concert in Memphis, TN on July 19, 2008, commemorating the life of their fallen director. Known for their energetic and spirited performances, Draper and the Associates released seven albums since 1991, winning the Grammy award for Best Gospel Choir or Chorus Album in 1998 for the album Reflections. Draper passed in 1998 resulting from mild renal failure. (July 23, 2008)
Michael Cook (Mighty Clouds of Joy) Passes —
Michael Cook, a prominent member of the legendary quartet The Mighty Clouds of Joy, passed as the result of a massive heart attack on July 18th, 2008 at age 47. The longtime group member served as one of the group's primary vocalists since 1996. See GOSPELflava.com Remembers page
Judith Christie McAllister New Recording —
Famed praise and worship leader Judith Christie McAllister is ready for her next recording effort. The live CD/DVD recording takes place on August 8, 2008 at The Greater Allen AME Cathedral in Jamaica, New York. (July 20, 2008)
Top Gospel Albums—
Marvin Sapp's Thirsty remains atop Billboard's Top Gospel Albums charts. The album is also atop the Top Christian & Gospel Albums charts, #9 on the Top Hip-Hop R&B Albums Charts and #36 on Billboard's Top 200 Charts. The compilation album Voices: The Ultimate Gospel Collection moves to the #2 position for the week, while Stand Out from Tye Tribbett & GA takes the #3 spot. WOW Gospel 2008 comes in at the #4 slot. Kirk Franklin's The Fight of My Life rounds out the top 5.
Update: Rev. Timothy Wright and Family in Car Accident —
Rev. Timothy Wright, travelling with his wife, First Lady Betty Wright, and his young grandson, had a tragic car accident on July 4th, 2008. First Lady Wright died at the scene of the accident, and his 14-year old grandson, Daniel "DJ" Wright, suffered serious injuries, and passed away later in hospital. Pastor Wright underwent surgery, and is currently recovering in the hospital. They were travelling to New York from Detroit, where they were attending the AIM Convention.
The homegoing services for First Lady Betty Wright and Daniel "DJ" Wright will span a two-day period with the wake occuring on July 27, 2008 at Grace Tabernacle Christian Center, 1745 Pacific Street in Brooklyn, NY beginning at 12pm. The Homegoing celebration will convene at Washington Temple COGIC, 1372 Bedford Avenue in Brooklyn, NY on July 28, 2008 at 11am. GOSPELflava.com joins with countless others in prayer for the Wright family. (revised July 17, 2008)
A New Role For Hezekiah Walker —
Congratulations to Verity Records' recording artist Pastor Hezekiah Walker, who has been chosen to be consecrated to the office of Bishop. The festivities will take place as part of 89th Holy Convocation of the Churches of Our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith, which convenes at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, GA on Aug. 3, 2008. The popular artist, dubbed the "Hip-Hop Pastor", has served as Pastor of Love Fellowship Tabernacle in New York City for the last 14 years, with a second congregation in Bensalem, PA. (July 17, 2008)
Rev. Lawrence Roberts' Final Album —
Following the recent passing of Rev. Lawrence C. Roberts, Malaco Music Group will soon release Roberts' final album, titled Bridging the Past, Blessing The Present in Song. (July 17, 2008)
Legendary Rev. Lawrence Roberts Passes —
Rev. Lawrence C. Roberts, the famed producer and artist associated with Savoy Records, passed away on July 14, 2008 due to a massive heart attack at his home in Stone Mountain, Georgia. He was 77. With the inception of Savoy Records, Roberts became the first African-American producer of a major U.S. recording company. In addition, Savoy became the premiere record label in gospel music, producing artists such as Albertina Walker, Rev. James Cleveland among others. It was the pairing of James Cleveland with Rev. Roberts and the Angelic Choir of First Baptist Church that resulted in the hits "Peace Be Still", "Christ Is The Answer", "I Stood On The Banks of Jordan", "Life Can Be Beautiful", "My God Can Do Anything" and many others. Roberts was a 2-time Grammy award winner and served as pastor of First Baptist Church of Nutley in Nutley, NJ until his retirement in 1995. GOSPELflava.com expresses sympathies to his wife and children, as well as many other friends and family. See GOSPELflava.com Remembers page.
Soul Stirrers To Reunite —
Following the recent passing of lead singer Dillard Crume, the legendary Soul Stirrers are set to reunite and release a new album. The group is slated to release A Soul Stirring Reunion with Malaco Records, featuring updated renditions of hits from their catalog dating back to the group's inception in 1926. The album is currently scheduled to hit shelves on September 23, 2008. (July 14, 2008)
Lucinda Moore Prepares to Record —
Tyscot Records recording artist Lucinda Moore is gearing up for her next recording effort. The live CD/DVD recording takes place on July 18, 2008 at Elizabeth Baptist Church in Atlanta, GA. Known for her hit "Pressure Into Praise", this latest effort is due to hit shelves Spring 2009. (July 12, 2008)
Thirsty Goes Gold —
Congratulations to Marvin Sapp whose latest release Thirsty, has been certified gold by RIAA. (Gold certification denotes album sales of 500,000 units.) In addition, the album continues to impact multiple charts, as it comes in at #9 on Billboard's Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums Charts and #36 on the Billboard Top 200 Charts. (July 10, 2008)
Candi Staton Joins Emtro —
Veteran vocalist Candi Staton has signed with Florida-based record label Emtro Gospel, home to Troy Sneed, Alvin Darling, and Bishop Bruce Parham. Staton's first effort with the label will be a praise and worship album, slated for release on October 21, 2008. (July 10, 2008)
Bishop Charles Craig Passes —
Bishop Charles A. Craig III of the legendary Craig Brothers, and GMWA Board member, passed away on July 6th in Detroit, after suffering a heart attack. GOSPElflava.com expresses sympathies to his wife, Wanda, son Charles "Volley" Craig, brother James Linzey Craig, as well as many other friends and family. (July 8, 2008)
Chris Simpson Passes —
Gospel artist Chris Simpson passed away to Glory on June 28th, 2008, succumbing to injuries sustained after being hit by a careening car in Dallas on June 21, 2008. Simpson, a former member of Kirk Franklin & the Family (lead vocalist on "Jesus Is The Reason for the Season"), and also formerly with John P. Kee and the New Life Community Choir and having sung with Montrel Darrett on the J2K project, released a solo project, Conversion, in the year 2000. GOSPELflava.com offers condolences to his wife and children, and to his many friends. See GOSPELflava.com Remembers page. (June 30, 2008)
Ira Tucker Passes —
Longtime Dixie Hummingbird member Ira Tucker passed away on June 24, 2008, at the age of 83. Tucker joined the world-famous quartet group in 1938 at the age of 13, and spent the next several decades singing bass with them, gaining a reputation for his stage presence and ability to imitate other quartet singers. In recent years, he also recorded solo projects. GOSPElflava.com expresses sympathies to friends and family. See GOSPELflava.com Remembers page. (June 24, 2008)
Donald Lawrence Records New Project—
Donald Lawrence heads to The Living Word Christian Center in Chicago for a July 30, 2008 recording of his next solo project, his second for Zomba / Verity Records. To be titled The Law of Confession, the project will be co-produced by Daniel Weatherspoon, and will also feature a crew of 10 session singers. (June 24, 2008)
Marvin Sapp Brings Home BET Award—
Marvin Sapp took home the BET Award for Best Gospel Artist. Awarded for his Thirsty album on Verity Records, the award was handed out on June 24th, 2008 at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. (June 24, 2007)
Gospel Radio Column —
Static Free is back. The column is all about Gospel radio, and is written by author and Stellar Award winning radio host, Deborah Smith Pollard, Ph.D. Static Free addresses topics relevant to Gospel radio, written from the insider perspective of the radio announcer and producer. Tune in to the new column! See column. (June 24, 2008)
Spiritual Advice Column —
A new column of In The Word is up. This spiritual advice column is written by Dr. John E. Guns, Senior Pastor of the St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church of Jacksonville, Florida. The column addresses various topics pertaining to spiritual guidance, as presented in the Scriptures. See column. (Jun 19, 2008)
Dottie Rambo Passes —
Legendary Gospel singer and songwriter Dottie Rambo died on May 11, 2008, at the age of 74, after suffering injuries in a bus accident near Mount Vernon, Missouri, on her way to sing at a Mother's Day event. Rambo wrote over 2,500 songs, including the classics "He Looked Beyond My Fault and Saw My Need" and "I Go To The Rock". Her songs were recorded by many, including Andrae Crouch, CeCe Winans, Jessy Dixon, Albertina Walker and countless others. GOSPElflava.com expresses sympathies to her friends and family. See GOSPELflava.com Remembers page. (May 13, 2008)
Kim Burrell set to record? The wait is over —
After 8 years, Kim Burrell is set to record her next solo album in one of the biggest moves in recent Gospel music history. Burrell will record her next album at the Lincoln Jazz Center in New York City on December 11 and 13, 2008. Check out her exclusive announcement here on GOSPELflava.com, as she shares the guest artists who are slated to be a part of this historic recording. See video interview. (May 4, 2008)
Dove Awards Recap —
The 39th Annual GMA Dove Awards are in the history books, and proved to be a night for numerous winners and standout performances. The night’s big winner was tobyMac, who walked away with 3 Dove Awards, including Artist of the Year, Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year (Portable Sounds) and Short Form Video of the Year ("Boomin"). Trin-i-tee 5:7 delivered a zydeco-infused performance of "Listen", while grabbing a pair of statuettes for Urban Recorded Song ("Listen") and Urban Album (T57). Likewise, Israel & New Breed captured a pair of Dove Awards for Contemporary Gospel Album (A Deeper Level) and Contemporary Gospel Recorded Song ("Say So"), while T-Bone, who partnered with Houghton on "With Long Life", grabbed the Dove for Rap/Hip-Hop Recorded Song (Name Droppin'). Group 1 Crew's self-titled debut earned them a Dove for Rap/Hip-Hop Album.
Hip Hop Column —
Hip hop artist Sean Slaughter writes regularly-appearing column for GOSPELflava.com on the wide-ranging topic of Gospel hip hop. The latest topic concerns The Empty Rapper. See column. (April 22, 2008)
Kirk Franklin, Donnie McClurkin and The Mighty Clouds of Joy join the New York
Tri-State for McDonald's Gospelfest 2008 —
The mega music festival returns on June 14, 2008 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. McDonald's Gospelfest is a talent competition that features choirs, steppers, praise dancers, soloist, rappers and poets. Rising stars of
will compete in a variety of categories and share the stage with Gospel's finest. In addition to Kirk Franklin, Donnie McClurkin and The Mighty Clouds of Joy, celebrity Gospel artists include Hezekiah Walker and the Love Fellowship Choir, Byron Cage, Vicki Winans, and Cissy Houston. Emmy Award winning A. Curtis Farrow has been tapped to produce and direct the festival.
(Mar 31, 2008)
Gospel Artists To Be Featured by AARP —
AARP, the world's largest advocacy organization for the 50+ community, will bring a star studded, two-hour musical event entitled, "Songs of Soul and Inspiration" to the Philips Arena in Atlanta, GA on June 21, 2008. The mega-event-directed by Golden Globe, Emmy and Tony award-winning producer and choreographer Debbie Allen, is part of AARP's 50th anniversary celebration and features a once-in-a-lifetime line-up of female vocalists, including Yolanda Adams, Patti Austin, Shirley Caesar, Chaka Khan, Jamia, Queen Latifah, Dionne Warwick, CeCe Winans, The Fire Choir and Ann Nesby appearing with Paris Bennett.
(Mar 31, 2008)
Dr. Robert E. Wooten Sr., Passes —
GOSPELflava.com mourns the passing of Dr. Robert E. Wooten, Sr. on March 27, 2008 in Chicago. Famed musician, choir master and founder of the renowned Wooten Choral Ensemble (WCE), Wooten organized the WCE in 1949 at the Beth Eden Baptist Church located in the heart of Chicago's Morgan Park community. The WCE was revered and celebrated for its distinctive ability and versatility in their performance of hymns, anthems and black spirituals. They have traveled extensively across the US and abroad and recorded several albums. Dr. Wooten also served as an educator in the Chicago Public Schools for over 30 years, and played with Gospel pioneer Dr. Thomas Dorsey. See
GOSPELflava.com Remembers page.
(Mar 30, 2008)
Free to Host on New Bobby Jones Show —
Free, formerly of BET's 106 & Park fame, is slated to join Dr. Bobby Jones as co-host of Jones' latest television creation, Bobby Jones' Next Generation. The new show begins taping in Atlanta Mar 24-27 and will air on the Gospel Music Channel.
(Mar 28, 2008)
Last Member of The Norfleet Brothers Passes —
Junious "Bud" Norfleet, the last surviving member of The Norfleet Brothers, passed away in Chicago on March 25, 2008 after a long illness. The Norfleet Brothers, consisting of Arthur, Joseph, Junious, Peter and Nathaniel were organized in 1946 in Newbern, Alabama. They relocated to Chicago in 1948, added George Taylor (renamed George Norfleet to be an official sixth brother) and were an integral part of Gospel Music's Golden Age during the 1950's and 60's. Although only having a few albums to their credit (on Divine Grace, Von-Trice, Rush, Emase and Checker labels), The Norfleet Brothers gained popularity and notoriety through appearances on radio and television and were the anchors of Jubilee Showcase, one of the longest-running programs in Chicago television history, airing for 21 years on WLS-TV, the ABC Network station in Chicago. In the 90's the group made regular appearances on Singsation. See
GOSPELflava.com Remembers page.
(Mar 28, 2008)
Soul Stirrer Dillard Crume Passes —
Soul Stirrer Dillard Crume passed away on March 21, 2008 after a long illness. Producer, guitarist and lead singer of the legendary Soul Stirrers, Crume passed away after an extended illness. He was a member of several groups over his career, including The Crume Brothers, The Blind Boys of Mississippi (guitar and backing vocals), The Highway QC's, and after a stint in R&B, a lead singer of the Soul Stirrers in 1976. In February 2008, the Soul Stirrers were all reunited at the Malaco recording studio in Jackson, MS to record the upcoming release, A Soul Stirring Reunion on Malaco Records. See
GOSPELflava.com Remembers page.
(Mar 28, 2008)
Guitarist Spanky Alford Passes —
GOSPELflava.com mourns the passing of Chalmers "Spanky" Alford, who went home to glory on March 24, 2008. As an in-demand guitarist, Alford played for traditional Gospel quartet artists including The Mighty Clouds of Joy, The Gospel Keynotes, The Canton Spirituals and Evelyn Turrentine-Agee, as well as host of mainstream artists (including Angie Stone, Bee Gees, Raphael Saadiq, Common and Al Green). See
GOSPELflava.com Remembers page.
(Mar 28, 2008)
LeJuene Thompson's Father Passes —
GOSPELflava.com extends sympathies to Gospel artist LeJuene Thompson, whose father, William Hayes, passed to Glory on March 2, 2008. Funeral services will be held at St. James Home of Fresh Start Ministries in Greensboro, NC on March 7th, at 1 PM.
(Mar 5, 2008)
Izzy's New Addition —
Congratulations to JEG's recording artist Izzy who, together with his wife Trina Bell, welcomed a new baby boy on February 29, 2008. Israel Ari Bell weighed in at 5 lbs 11 oz and entered the world at St. Joseph's Providence Hospital in Burbank, CA. Both parents and child are healthy and happy.
(Mar 4, 2008)
Gospel Music Channel Expansion —
The Gospel Music Channel got a big win with the announcement of its expansion to DIRECTV. The popular music channel, whose subscriber base is nearing 40 million subscribers, begins airing on Direct TV’s channel 338 on March 19, 2008. (Mar 2, 2008)
Dove Awards ...Live?! —
For the first time ever, the annual GMA Dove Awards will broadcast live on the Gospel Music Channel. The historic 39th annual broadcast emanates from the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville , TN and will feature awards presented in every gospel genre from pop and country to hip-hop and bluegrass. The Clark Sisters, tobyMac, Mandisa, Group 1 Crew are among the many with multiple GMA nominations. The live awards show is set to air on April 23, 2008 at 7pm.
(Mar 2, 2008)
Hope Nation Tour —
On the heels of his wildly successful release Kingdom Business, Canton Jones has been added to the lineup of the Hope Nation Tour. Sponsored by the Gospel Music Channel, World Vision, and the Ellis Verne Agency, the tour will feature DeWayne Woods, Coko, Jonathan Nelson, Myron Butler and Levi, Tarsha McMillian Hamilton, and Ted Winn. The mega-tour kicks off March 24 and runs through May 18, 2008
(Mar 2, 2008)
Grammy Winners Announced—
The 50th Annual Grammy Award were handed out in Los Angeles on February 10th, 2008. Big winners were The Clark Sisters, who took home a total of three trophies. Check here for more:
(Feb 10, 2008)
The Return of Nureau —
After a relatively quiet 2007, the delegates of Nureau Ink are poised to make their mark on 2008. The first of these releases will be exclusive digital releases beginning with Mic B (BLU. Love. Hate) on Feb. 14th. The long-awaited TRON (The Ryders of Nureaumerica) compilation project hits on Mar. 18th. Later in the year, expect releases from AppleJaxx and Tonex, whose new album Gospop is slated for an Aug. 12th release.
(Feb 1, 2008)
Platinum Souls Charts Big —
Congratulations to Platinum Souls, whose latest single "Dey Don’t Know" charts this week at #2 on Billboard's Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles Sales Charts. Debuting at #11 ten weeks ago, the Atlanta based hip-hop duo continues to outsell singles from Temar Underwood and Snoop Dogg.
(Feb 1, 2008)
Show to Feature Gospel Performances —
This year's Grammy Awards just got even bigger with a historical gospel performance added to the year’s televised program. This year’s gospel segment will feature a performance from Aretha Franklin, Mary J. Blige, The Clark Sisters, Israel and New Breed, and Trin-I-Tee 5:7, all of whom are Grammy nominees in this year’s gospel categories. The 50th annual Grammy Awards airs on CBS on February 10 at 8pm, emanating from the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
(Jan 30, 2008)
UPDATE:
New Bobby Jones TV Show to Debut —
Dr. Bobby Jones announced that he will be starting a new TV show, to be called Bobby Jones Next Generation, focusing on new artists and urban presentations. The show is set to debut in March, 2008 on the Gospel Music Channel. Jones made the announcement during the 23rd Annual Stellar Award weekend in Nashville.
(Jan 22, 2008)
Edgar O'Neal Passes —
Edgar O'Neal, the surviving member of the famous O'Neal Twins, went home to glory on Jan 16, 2008 in his hometown of St. Louis, MO, after a brief illness. Edward O'Neal passed away several years ago. The O'Neal Twins recorded over twenty albums on a variety of labels (Savoy, AIR Gospel, Creed, Peacock), and gained nationwide attention for their part on the Gospel documentary, Say Amen Somebody. Edgar on piano and voice, and Edward on vocals together broke new ground when the big thing in Gospel was quartets. Hits such as "Jesus Dropped The Charges", "Throw Out The Lifeline" and "Power In the Blood" still resonate, their close harmony being unforgettable. The duo was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2004. The funeral service will be on Jan. 25th at Kussuth Temple of God and Christ in St. Louis.
(Jan 18, 2008)
EMI CMG and Lilly Mack Publishing Deal —
In one of the first deals of its kind, EMI CMG Publishing and Lilly Mack Publishing, home to the song catalog of Kirk Franklin and one of the world's largest Gospel music catalogs, have agreed to a groundbreaking partnership that will open new territories for gospel songwriters and their music, announced Eddie DeGarmo, president of EMI CMG Publishing and Vicki Mack-Lataillade and Claude Lataillade, owners of Lilly Mack Music Publishing and founders of Gospo Centric Records. Under this unique agreement, this market-leading Gospel catalogue will work with the biggest Christian music publisher to extend the reach of the Gospel genre beyond its core market.
(Jan 17, 2008)
The Clark Sisters May Record Again —
During the taping of the 23rd Annual Stellar Awards on Jan 12th, 2008, Dorinda Clark-Cole, in accepting one of The Clark Sisters' four Stellar Awards, announced that due to the overwhelming response received for their reunion recording Live - One Last Time on EMI Gospel, the group might soon record another album.
(Jan 14, 2008)
Official Stellar Award RESULTS —
The Official Results for the 23rd Annual Stellar Awards were announced from Nashville. Check out ALL the results here.
Beverly Crawford's Father Passes —
GOSPELflava.com joins with the Gospel music community in mourning with JDI Records artist Beverly Crawford on the passing of her father, Bishop Walter Camps at the age of 74. Bishop Camps, who sang with Crawford on "Jesus, Precious King" from her solo debut in 1995, was presiding Bishop of Holy Temple of God Churches.
(Dec 18, 2007)
Gospel's Glenn Burleigh Passes —
Renowned composer and pianist Glenn E. Burleigh passed away in his home in Oklahoma City on Dec 11th. Burleigh, known for gospel compositions based on scripture and with arrangements in the form of the spiritual with classical accompaniment, crossed racial lines with his work. He may be best remembered for the hit song, "Order My Steps" recorded by the Women of Worship of the GMWA. GOSPELflava.com joins with many others in expressing sorrow and offering up prayer for God to comfort his family and friends.
(Dec 12, 2007)
New Label: Audiostate 55 Entertainment Signs Artists—
Audiostate 55 Entertainment, a new Gospel record label headed up by Dr. Henry Panion III, has released Live From Hawaii as its debut offering. The album features Gospel artist Tim Miner, Hawaiian recording star Fiji, and Word of Life Christian Center worship team. Other artists signed to the label include Erick Matthews and the contemporary jazz group Overfloe. Panion was the creative force behind the history-making Gospel Goes Classical featuring Juanita Bynum and Jonathan Butler, and also has worked with artists from The Winans, Stevie Wonder, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, Byron Cage, The Blind Boys of Alabama, Ruben Studdard, and numerous symphony orchestras.
(Oct 30, 2007)
Passing of Curtis Hayes, Jr.—
The Gospel Community is mourning the passing of Curtis Hayes, Jr. longtime director of the New Jerusalem Full Gospel Baptist Church Choir. Under his direction and with assistance from Jeffrey LaValley, the choir recorded a string of hits in the 70s and 80s for Savoy and Sound of Gospel including "The Lord is My Light", "I Can't Feel At Home", "His Eye Is On the Sparrow" and "Show Me the Way". Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 27th, 2007 in Flint, Michigan.
(Oct 26, 2007)
Norman Hutchins Records New Project—
Norman Hutchins recorded a new live praise and worship CD/ DVD in early October 2007 in Dover, Delaware, with special guests Timothy Wright and Daryl Coley. The new project, to launch on Hutchins' new label, Impact Records is titled Spontaneous Praise Choir Live, Vol 1. featuring Norman Hutchins, is slated for an early 2008 release, with distribution through Central South Gospel.
(Oct 24, 2007)
Rev. C.L. Fairchild Passes —
Rev C.L. Fairchild, pastor of Greater Faith Church Baptist in Waukegan, Illinois (outside of Chicago) passed away on October 10, 2007. In addition to his pastoral duties he was a singer and songwriter recording 5 albums with his church choir, The Voices of Greater Faith (two on AIR Gospel), as well as producing the Stellar-nominatted CGI Records' National Baptist Convention Mass Choir project Let's Go to Church. His life will be celebrated with in word and song in services on Oct 19-20th, 2007.
(Oct 15, 2007)
BeBe Winans on Stage—
BeBe Winans is set to join Fantasia Barrino and Chaka Khan as starring cast members of the long-running musical, The Color Purple, beginning next year in New York. Winans will play the role of Harpo, the husband of Sophia (Khan), friend of the lead character, Celie (Burrino). The Color Purple, based on the Pulitzer-Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker, has run on Broadway since December 2005.
Tyscot Looks to Atlanta—
Indianapolis-based Tyscot Records has increased their artist roster with the signings of Atlanta-based artists Damita Haddon and Darwin Hobbs. Tyscot has also announced partnerships with Atlanta's CAJO International, Frontline Entertainment's Christopher Lewis and Open River Films, opening up other areas for label activities.
Sneed Jr. Starts New Label—
Troy "TJ" Sneed Jr., son of Gospel artist and Emtro Gospel head Troy Sneed, is heading up the fledgling T Records, with distribution through via IDN (Innovative Distribution Network) and the Alliance Entertainment Corporation.
Look for the label's first release in early 2008.
New Music for Men of Standard —
Men of Standard is in the midst of gearing up for their next recording. This session will be their first live set, and is slated to go down in November 2007 in Atlanta . It will serve as the group’s sixth album. (August 22, 2007)
Fred Hammond Launches Entertainment Company—
Fred Hammond has joined forces with industry veteran Roy Campbell to launch fHammond Family Entertainment (FHFE), a new entertainment conglomerate headquarted in Dallas that is focusing on inspirational urban family entertainment, including a film division releasing direct-to-DVD titles, a music and book publishing division, an online multi-media website including radio programming and streaming video content, theatrical presentations and music production from new and established artists under the fHammond Music label. The first project for FHFE is a film titled "Christmas... Who Needs It?" starring Hammond, slated for late 2007. (August 14, 2007)
Quartet Column —
Shouts and Drives is back with another segment, as GOSPELflava.com's Quartet Columnist, Ms. Willie McClendon brings the latest news and views. See column. (July 30, 2007)
New Baby for Mary Mary's Tina Campbell—
Tina Campbell, one half of the Grammy Award-winning platinum-selling super duo Mary Mary, together with husband Teddy Campbell, welcomed their second child, Meela Jane, on June 11th. She joins the couple's first child, Laiah Simone, age 3.
(July 24, 2007)
Bill Pinkney Passes—
R&B legend and Gospel singer Bill Pinkney passed away on July 4, 2007 at the age of 81. Pinkney, the last surviving member of The Original Drifters, released Gospel albums for Blackberry Records and WorldWide Gospel in the 1990s.
(July 5, 2007)
Bill Moss Passes—
After a long illness, veteran Gospel music artist Bill Moss (father of J.Moss, brother of the late Mattie Moss Clark) passed away on June 25th. The homegoing service is at 11 PM on June 30th, 2007 at Greater Emanuel Church in Detroit. GOSPELflava.com joins with many others in expressing sympathy with the Moss family.
(revised June 27, 2007)
Melvin Williams’ Play —
Melvin Williams is taking a little time to tour with brand new gospel play, "Spare the Rod, Spoil the Child" opening Friday, June 29, 2007 at the Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts, Raleigh Memorial Auditorium. The play, directed by James House and Melissa Wade, also features Evelyn Turrentine Agee, Tracy Worth, Leanne Faine, Ann McCrary and Regina McCrary of Tyler Perry's "Diary of a Mad Black
Woman."
(June 26, 2007)
Gospel Music Channel and Lincoln get together for Hometown Gospel:
Atlanta to Celebrate Its Gospel History and Heritage —
Byron Cage hosts an evening set to celebrate The ATL’s rich Gospel music heritage and hip, modern influences. The special offers an in-depth look at the singers, songwriters, landmarks and legends that shaped Atlanta's Gospel/Christian musical heritage and continues to do so today with artists such as Dorothy Norwood, Eva Mae Lefevre, Dottie Peoples, The Georgia Mass Choir, Angella Christie, Canton Jones and many more. It will air at various times throughout June 2007 on the Gospel Music Channel.
(June 26, 2007)
BeBe and CeCe Reuniting—
After years of separate solo careers, award winning brother and sister duo BeBe and CeCe Winans are set to reunite with a new album and tour. The pair recently performed on the finale of the 2007 version of American Idol, singing "Hold Up The Light" with finalist Melinda Doolittle.
(May 24, 2007)
Kayla Parker-Tolbert Passes—
GOSPELflava.com joins with the Gospel community in mourning the passing of Kayla Parker-Tolbert. The noted singer, songwriter and producer passed away after a battle with cancer on April 21, 2007. The first time that many became aware of Kayla was in the context of her solos with Marvin Winans and Perfected Praise. She went on to form her own group (Special Gift) and sang and wrote for numerous others, including CeCe Winans, Fred Hammond, Vickie Winans and Mary Mary. She was working on her own solo project most recently. The Home going celebration for Kayla Parker-Tolbert is on April 28th at the First Church of God, Center of Hope, Inglewood, California.
(Apr 23, 2007)
Brent Jones Signs with Tyscot—
Tyscot Records has signed contemporary pioneer Brent Jones to a recording contract. Jones' new project, recently recorded at Capital Records' studio in Hollywood, is slated for an October 2007 release, and features guest shots from Nysa Shenay and Orlando Wright. The album is to be titled The Ultimate Weekend.
(Apr 18, 2007)
Beverly Crawford Set to Record First Album for JDI—
JDI Records artist Beverly Crawford heads to Los Angeles' Faithful Central Bible Church's Tabernacle on April 21st for her first live CD / DVD recording for the award-winning record label. Special guests for the recording are set to include Ricky Dillard, Norman Hutchins, Dr. Bobby Jones and DeNetria Champ. The album is slated for an August 22, 2007 release at the Gospel Music Workshop of America Convention in Orlando, Florida.
(Apr 13, 2007)
Byron Cage Heads to The Apollo—
Byron Cage heads to the legendary Apollo Theater in Harlem, NY for an April 26 live CD and DVD recording. Featuring special guests Kim Burrell, Dave Hollister and Kelly Price, the multiple award-winning GospoCentric artist is calling the project The Proclamation.
(Apr 5, 2007)
Passing of Howard "Slim" Hunt of Slim & The Supreme Angels—
GOSPELflava.com mourns with others the passing of Howard "Slim" Hunt of Slim & The Supreme Angels. The veteran and beloved recording artist passed away on February 25th, 2007 in North Carolina. (Feb 25, 2007)
New Recording for Brent Jones—
Brent Jones & T.P. Mobb embark on their next recording on March 17, 2007. After successful studio projects, the innovative contemporary choir is moving into live territory with a CD/DVD recording at Ebenezer A.M.E. Church in Fort Washington, Maryland, where Jones serves in music ministry. (Feb 14, 2007)
Youthful Praise Live Recording—
James Hairston & Youthful Praise head to Baltimore to record a live project, their fourth album. The multiple Stellar-nominated choir (Evidence Gospel / Light Records) bring their distinctive sound to Church of the Redeemed of the Lord on April 14th, with doors opening at 5 PM. The title of the album is to be titled Exalted. Check here for the Flyer.
(Feb 11, 2007)
Earnestine Rundless Passes—
Earnestine Rundless passed away on Feb 7, 2007, at age 93, after an extended period of ill health. Rundless was a founding member of Detroit's famous Meditation Singers, one of the first female gospel groups to rely on instrumental support. Rundless formed the group in 1947, from the ranks of New Liberty Baptist Church's Moments of Mediation Choir. Joining the group was Della Reese, who upon leaving for a solo R&B career, had her lead vocalists responsibilities taken up by Rundless' daughter, Laura Lee. The Meditation Singers first recorded with Specialty Records, and then later released albums on a variety of other labels, including Savoy, Chess, Checker, Jewel and Sam Cooke's own label, SAR. A musical memorial service is slated for New Liberty Baptist Church in Detroit on Friday, Feb 16th, with the funeral service at the church on Feb 17th, at 10 AM.
(Feb 10, 2007)
Heather Martin Delivers—
Congratulations to Heather Martin of Virtue, who delivered a bouncing baby boy on Jan 31, 2007. His name is Colin Alex Martin, II, and he weighed in at 7 lbs 5 oz. He came 4 weeks early, but both mother and baby are doing great. (Feb 9, 2007)
Soul Train Music Awards Announced—
The 2007 Soul Train Music Awards have given nods to The Caravans (Paved The Way), Kirk Franklin (Songs from the Storm), Bishop G.E. Patterson & Congregation (Singing the Old Time Way, Vol. II) and Youth For Christ (The Struggle Is Over) as nominees for Best Gospel Album. The annual awards will be handed out on March 10, 2007 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. (Feb 7, 2007)
Dexterity Inks Deal with Rhino—
Bishop T.D. Jakes' Dexterity Sounds recording label has inked a distribution and marketing deal with Rhino Entertainment, a division of the Warner Music Group.
Rhino will release the label's next project, the new Potter’s House Choir album titled Grace —Live in Kenya, which hits shelves on March 20, 2007. In addition to releasing new projects by artists signed to Dexterity Sounds, the label will also actively develop a gospel music reissue CD series that draws on the music vaults of Warner labels such as Word Records, Elektra, Warner Bros. and Atlantic Records.
(Feb 5, 2007)
Bishop William Abney Passes—
GOSPELflava.com extends our sympathy to the family of Bishop William Abney, who passed away on Jan 23, 2007 at age 80. Bishop Abney led Bethel Pentecostal Church Abundant Life Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan for 45 years, released a solo album on Born Again Records in 1997, and appeared as a guest on albums from Marvin Sapp. He has been credited by artists from Byron Cage, Commissioned and Fred Hammond as being a prime influence and supporter of their ministries from the earliest days. His funeral is planned for February 2, 2007.
(Jan 24, 2007)
Gospel Super Bowl Event Details—
The 8th Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration announces feature performers Yolanda Adams, Fred Hammond, and Hezekiah Walker. Comedic giant Cedric the Entertainer will co-host the annual event that will also feature gospel and christian music luminaries J. Moss, Tye Tribbett and Jaci Velasquez. Results, Inc. president, Melanie Few, has also announced that Kyle Bowser, veteran producer of television and live events will serve as an Executive Producer of this year's event. Among the NFL players scheduled for special guest appearances are: Bryant McKinnie (Vikings), Antwaan Randle El (Redskins), and Troy Vincent (Redskins).
(Jan 23, 2007)
Natalie Wilson on Stage—
Gospel recording artist Natalie Wilson, formerly of the seven-time Stellar Award nominee, Natalie Wilson & The S.O.P. Chorale, is embarking on a theatrical career. Wilson is starring as Mary McLeod Bethune in the stageplay, If This Hat Could Talk, based on the life of civil rights activist Dr. Dorothy I. Height, which will show in 11 cities, and also stars Margaret Bell and Tony Terry. She also looks forward to releasing her first solo album this fall.
(Jan 21, 2007)
Stellar Award Winners Announced—
New Addition Coming for Tina Campbell and Teddy Campbell—
Tina Campbell of Mary Mary and her husband, musician Teddy Campbell, have announced that they are expecting a new addition to the family,due in mid-July 2007. The new baby will bring the family to a total of four, with daughter Laiah (age 3) being the soon-to-be new big sister. (Jan 8, 2007)
Long Awaited Montrel Darrett Album Releasing in 2007—
Gospel innovator, vocalist, songwriter/producer and Commissioned alumnus Montrel Darrett has inked a distribution deal with Comin' Atcha Distribution, setting the stage for the long-awaited release of his Soul Metal project in March, 2007, on his own Oasis Music Group label.
(Jan 2, 2007)
Aretha Franklin Brings Gospel Guests on New CD—
Aretha Franklin's new album, due out in the first quarter of 2007, features not only Faith Hill, but Gospel's Shirley Caesar, Karen Clark-Sheard and her siblings, The Clark Sisters. The album, produced by the veteran Michael Powell, will be titled Aretha: A Woman Falling Out of Love, and will be released on her own Aretha's Records label.
(Dec 22, 2006)
Gospel Continues to Grow Internationally—
Gospel music is experiencing great growth internationally. Evidence comes from the Dec 1, 2006 concert in Lagos, Nigeria, in which 85,000 people turned out to hear Kirk Franklin, Israel & New Breed, Donnie McClurkin, Lionel Peterson, Mighty Samba and others.
(Dec 21, 2006)
Live Recording for Bruce Parham—
EMTRO recording artist Bruce Parham makes his first recording for the label on December 29th, 2006, at Harvest Life Changers Church, International in Washington DC. The CD is expected to release later in 2007. (Dec 19, 2006)
Max Siegal Moves On—
Max Siegal announced on Dec 14, 2006 that he is leaving his position as Senior Vice President, Zomba Label Group /President, Zomba Gospel, to accept the position of President of Global Operations of Dale Earnhardt, Inc., the NASCAR-focused entity. Former Zomba executive Jazzy Jordan has been tapped as his successor in the Senior VP role. Zomba Gospel encompasses the Verity Gospel and the GospoCentric labels. (Dec 14, 2006)
Passing of Mother Mattie Bowman—
GOSPELflava.com joins with many others in sympathy with Vickie Winans, on the passing to Glory of her mother, Mattie Bowman, on Dec. 12, 2006. The family hour and viewing will be held on Dec. 17, 2006 at Perfecting Church in Detroit, with the homegoing service to follow at 4:30 PM. (Dec 13, 2006)
Sony Urban Folds into Columbia Records—
Sony Urban Music, home of artists that include Tye Tribbett & G.A., Mary, Mary, Anointed and William Murphy, has folded into Columbia Records, as part of the ongoing reorganization of Sony BMG. The label has stated that it remains committed to the Gospel genre.
(Dec 9, 2006)
Ricky Dillard Set to Record in Toronto—
Ricky Dillard & New G head to Toronto for a January 20th, 2007 live recording. This marks the first album for the renowned choirmaster, since signing with Alliant Music Distribution. The venue will be at Rhema Christian Ministries, with the live CD/DVD to be released on Dillard's own Animated Entertainment label and Alliant Music Distribution.
(Dec 7, 2006)
Tyscot Co-Founder Craig Tyson Passes—
Craig Tyson, co-founder of Tyscot Records, passed away peacefully on Nov 30th, 2006 in Indianapolis. Organist, songwriter, teacher and producer, Tyson together with Dr. Leonard Scott, founded Tyscot Records in 1976 as a means of recording their church choir, Christ Church Apostolic Radio Choir, pastored by Tyson's father, Bishop James Tyson.
(Dec 1, 2006)
Chris Jones Passes —
GOSPELflava.com joins with others in the Gospel community in mourning the passing of Gospel artist Chris Jones. The Tyscot artist was known for his uptempo urban albums, the most being Dance, released within the past year. A musical celebration for him is scheduled for Oct 13 at Wings Of Love Baptist Church in Highland Park, Michigan, followed by a homegoing service on the morning of Oct 14 at Greater Emmanuel in Detroit. (revised Oct 10, 2006)
Passing of Roy "Mr. Malaco" Wooten—
GOSPELflava.com joins with many others in mourning the passing of Roy "Mr. Malaco" Wooten, the longtime Gospel industry executive who wilbe forever associated with Malaco Records. (June 17, 2006)
Billy Preston Passes—
GOSPELflava.com joins with many others in mourning the passing of Billy Preston on June 5, 2006 after a lengthy illness. Preston, an accomplished organist, musician, vocalist and songwriter, collaborated with many, including The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, and released several Gospel albums beginning in the mid 1960's, interspersed with his mainstream releases. His Gospel works were released on labels including Exodus, Myrrh, PepperCo and MCG. Preston began as a child prodigy, playing keyboard for Mahalia Jackson. (June 6, 2006)
Passing of Dan Underwood —
GOSPELflava.com mourns the passing on May 6, 2006, of Gospel promoter and entrepreneur, Dan Underwood. Underwood, who was recently inducted into the International Gospel Music Hall of Fame, was instrumental in establishing the New Artist Showcases at the Gospel Music Workshop of America, and had a passion for encouraging upstart artists. Underwood, 76, passed away in Detroit. (May 12, 2006)
Dr. Charles Fold Passes —
GOSPELflava.com mourns with others the passing of Dr. Charles Fold, a trailblazer in Gospel music. Dr. Fold served as the President of the GMWA Chapter Representatives, in addition to his longstanding service of musical ministry with The Charles Fold Singers, who have recorded over twelve albums, garnering four Grammy nominations and a Grammy award in 1981. Dr. Fold was a longtime collaborator with the late Rev. James Cleveland, together presenting songs such as "Jesus Is The Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me" and "Lord, Let Me Be An Instrument". Dr. Fold transitioned to glory on the morning of April 7, 2006, after a period of failing health. There will be a concert celebrating Dr. Fold's life on April 21, 2006 at Lincoln Heights Missionary Baptist Church in Cincinnati at 7 PM, following the wake (5 PM to 7 PM), with Home Going services on the morning of April 22. (revised April 10, 2006)
Passing of Mark Christian Tilles—
Gospelflava.com mourns the passing on to Glory on June 22, 2004 of Mark Christian Tilles, after a bout with cancer. Mark was a friend of Gospelflava.com from our beginnnings in the late 1990's, and was a contributing writer in our early days, based out of Detroit. Some of his work is linked below. See you later, friend.
(June 23, 2004)
Gospelflava.com TV—
Gospelflava.com is proud to launch a twenty-four hour online video channel, in partnership with StreamingFaith.com. You can start watching all those new Gospel videos now! Click here to start viewing. Also, see press release. (05/19/2003) All content in GOSPELflava.com © copyright 1997 - 2008. No information to be reprinted or re-broadcast from this site without the expressed written consent of GOSPELflava.com. All rights reserved. |
                  
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The 22nd Annual Stellar Awards winners have been announced. Donald Lawrence was the big winner, taking home a total of seven. Myron Butler garnered three Stellars, and Tye Tribbett received two. Read the full set of results