For twenty two years, gospel fans have been touched by the awesome talent of the Mississippi Mass Choir. Some faces have changed, but the choir’s mission remains the same; “evangelizing the world in song.”
They have ministered in song in over 40 states within the USA, including Alaska. They have been fortunate enough to travel to international stages in countries such as Japan, Italy, Spain, Bahamas, and Greece; becoming the first gospel group to perform at the Acropolis. While attending the famed Umbria Jazz Gospel and Soul Easter Festival in Terni, Italy, the choir was unexpectedly invited to sing for Pope John Paul II at his summer residence.
On December 8-26, 2010 they will once again “Go ye into all the world” with a fourteen city tour of Spain and the Canary Islands. According to concert promoter Luis Manjarres, “Since their first Spanish tour, Mississippi Mass Choir has become a classic of the European and the Spanish Christmas. They will showcase their talent in the main venues of Barcelona, Madrid, San Sebastian, Bilbao, Pamplona, Gijon, and Vigo. This tour of fourteen concerts will culminate on Christmas night, in the wonderful city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife at the Canary Islands, in a very special event with the 92 piece Tenerife Symphonic Orchestra, under the direction of Maestro Lu Jia. Mississippi Mass Choir will be the first African American choir to perform with a European Symphonic Orchestra before an audience of 20,000. It is the time for Mississippi Mass Choir…It is the time for Classic Gospel.” The concert billed as “The Gift” is a Christmas present from the local government to its citizens. It will be “Live Streamed” at www.puertodetenerife.org or www.tve.es.
On October 29, 1988, Five months after their first rehearsal, the 150 voice aggregation recorded its first album and video. It can truly be said that they were an “overnight success. The album entitled “Mississippi Mass Choir Live” remained in the No. 1 slot atop the Billboard Magazine Top Gospel Charts” for 45 consecutive weeks – setting a record for a debut recording of any genre. Their next three recordings “God Gets the Glory,” “It Remains to be Seen,” “Rev. James Moore Live with Mississippi Mass, and ”Rev. James Moore Live with Mississippi Mass at Jackson State University” all reached the No. 1 position. Their first album after the untimely passing of Frank Williams in 1993, “I’ll See You in the Rapture” reached the No. 2 slot on the Billboard Chart; second only to Kirk Franklin’s recording-setting release. All of their subsequent recording reached the top ten or top twenty positions.
They have either won or been nominated numerous times for every music industry award, including the Grammy, Stellar, Soul Train, Dove, National Association of Record Merchandisers, 3M Visionary, Mississippi Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts, and a host of others. They were recognized by Billboard Magazine on several occasions as “Gospel Artist of the Year.”
Their tenure in the gospel music industry has already reached legendary status and continues to grow. Jerry Mannery, Executive Director of the choir, states, “We are all about our Father’s business. We are not entertainers, we are ministers for Christ. Our mission remains constant; to serve the Lord and spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
In preparation for their ninth recording, the choir held their first new member audition in over five years. One hundred new voices from throughout Mississippi were added to the roster to increase the membership to 250. According to Minister of Music Jerry Smith, “New members are the lifeblood of a choir.”
On February 1, 2011 this ninth recording – “Then Sings My Soul” will be released on Malaco Records. The first single “God Made Me” has already started its ascent up the Gospel Radio Chart.
Anyone fortunate enough to find themselves in the audience of a Mississippi Mass Choir “service” will soon become a participant in an unforgettable musical/spiritual journey.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Monday, November 1, 2010
OVER HALF A MILLION VIEWERS TUNED IN TO WATCH THE CHRISTIAN ANGELS ON BET
The Malaco Music Group & 4 Winds Records are proud to announce that over a half a million viewers (516,000) tuned in to watch the national television debut of 3 Time, 2011 Stellar Awards Nominees and one of the most exciting female Quartet groups to come along in decades, The Christian Angels this past Sunday, October 31, 2010 on BET’s Bobby Jones according to Nielsen’s BDS tabulations.
The Christian Angels performed their heart wrenching, soul touching, powerful single “Praise Your Name” from their debut CD “Bring It To The Altar.” It was amazing to witness the studio audience weeping with joy and praising God sincerely with their whole heart.
Advise your Twitter followers, Facebook & MySpace friends, listeners and readers that “Praise Your Name” from the CD “Bring It To The Altar.” is available now in stores or they can go online to order their copy at http://malaco.com/Catalog/New-Releases/New-Gospel-Releases/Item/2299/Bring-It-To-The-Altar.php for only $9.95. (Also available on iTunes)
The Christian Angels performed their heart wrenching, soul touching, powerful single “Praise Your Name” from their debut CD “Bring It To The Altar.” It was amazing to witness the studio audience weeping with joy and praising God sincerely with their whole heart.
Advise your Twitter followers, Facebook & MySpace friends, listeners and readers that “Praise Your Name” from the CD “Bring It To The Altar.” is available now in stores or they can go online to order their copy at http://malaco.com/Catalog/New-Releases/New-Gospel-Releases/Item/2299/Bring-It-To-The-Altar.php for only $9.95. (Also available on iTunes)
Monday, October 11, 2010
Memorial Service Set For Albertina Walker
CHICAGO (AP) - A memorial service and a concert have been planned for the "Queen of Gospel" Albertina Walker, who died last week in Chicago.
The Rev. L. Bernard Jakes says a public viewing of Walker's body will take place Thursday at West Point Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago. A concert in her honor will be held late Thursday at Apostolic Church of God in Chicago.
Walker's memorial service will be held Friday at West Point Missionary Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.
Walker died Friday of respiratory failure at age 81. She formed the Caravans gospel group as a young woman and was a protege of famed singer Mahalia Jackson.
The Rev. L. Bernard Jakes says a public viewing of Walker's body will take place Thursday at West Point Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago. A concert in her honor will be held late Thursday at Apostolic Church of God in Chicago.
Walker's memorial service will be held Friday at West Point Missionary Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.
Walker died Friday of respiratory failure at age 81. She formed the Caravans gospel group as a young woman and was a protege of famed singer Mahalia Jackson.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Watch The Soul Seekers On BET's Bobby Jones Gospel This Sunday
The Malaco Music Group invites you to watch BET’s Bobby Jones Gospel this Sunday, October 10, 2010 to see Stellar Award Winning Quartet Super Group The Soul Seekers perform their Billboard Gospel Chart hit single “It’s All God” & “Come On Jesus” from her upcoming “Soul Seekers II” CD in stores November 16, 2010. (Check your local listings)
Set your VCR’s, DVR’s or TIVO’s!!!
Be prepared to have a good old fashion hand clapping, foot stomping good time!!!
Set your VCR’s, DVR’s or TIVO’s!!!
Be prepared to have a good old fashion hand clapping, foot stomping good time!!!
Sad news from the world of gospel music, Albertina Walker, known as the "Queen of Gospel" has died.
Walker was born in Chicago in 1929. She had been in the hospital since Aug. 29, the day she celebrated her 81st birthday.
She started to sing for the children's choir of the West Point Baptist Church when she was just 4 years old.
By age 22 she had organized the Caravans, her gospel group.
She is known for a long list of songs including Lord Remember Me, Walk Around Heaven and Lord Keep Me Day by Day.
She started to sing for the children's choir of the West Point Baptist Church when she was just 4 years old.
By age 22 she had organized the Caravans, her gospel group.
She is known for a long list of songs including Lord Remember Me, Walk Around Heaven and Lord Keep Me Day by Day.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
MY BLOCK RECORDS INKS DISTRIBUTION DEAL WITH MALACO MUSIC GROUP Soul Seekers II In Stores November 16, 2010
Los Angeles, CA — My Block Records, helmed by hit making producer Warryn Campbell, officially announces its distribution deal with Malaco Music Group. The first release in this new partnership will by the new CD from the Soul Seekers – “Soul Seekers II”.
“Malaco Gospel was founded on and continues its dedication to Quartet music, so it is an honor and privilege to have The Soul Seekers as a part of the Malaco Group family. There is a special uniqueness about this group of guys that resonates not only within the Gospel industry community but among Gospel music fans who wouldn’t normally listen to Quartet music,” says D.A. Johnson, Executive Director/Malaco Gospel Division.
The Soul Seekers are one of the most celebrated groups in Gospel music, and their new CD – Soul Seekers II – will be released on November 16.
Comprised of Teddy Campbell, Warryn Campbell, Nisan Stewart, John "Jubu" Smith, Gerald Haddon, Charlie Bereal, Craig Brockman and Eric Seats, the Soul Seekers is a veritable eight-member super group of hit making producers and award-winning musicians who together create a timeless expression of church music that appeals to fans of both traditional and contemporary Gospel. According to Warryn Campbell, the group is a “musical bridge between the past, present and future.”
“We are music’s next generation, but we are deliberate about maintaining a thread of Gospel’s roots in our music” says Campbell. “I feel very fortunate to be in business with Malaco, a label whose music I grew up on, and hope that our first release – Soul Seekers II – is as warmly received as our debut CD was.”
“Malaco houses the largest and oldest Gospel catalog in the world and we have always stayed true to the traditional quartet music. The Soul Seekers are the hot new quartet group that the industry is closely watching. Malaco views The Soul Seekers as the New Ambassadors of quartet music and look forward to helping the take quartet music to the mainstream states,” says Tommy Couch Jr. VP/Malaco Music Group
For more information on the The Soul Seekers:
E-Mail: pr@sovereignagency.com
www.thesoulseekersmusic.com
www.facebook.com/thesoulseekersmusic
www.twitter.com/thesoulseekers
“Malaco Gospel was founded on and continues its dedication to Quartet music, so it is an honor and privilege to have The Soul Seekers as a part of the Malaco Group family. There is a special uniqueness about this group of guys that resonates not only within the Gospel industry community but among Gospel music fans who wouldn’t normally listen to Quartet music,” says D.A. Johnson, Executive Director/Malaco Gospel Division.
The Soul Seekers are one of the most celebrated groups in Gospel music, and their new CD – Soul Seekers II – will be released on November 16.
Comprised of Teddy Campbell, Warryn Campbell, Nisan Stewart, John "Jubu" Smith, Gerald Haddon, Charlie Bereal, Craig Brockman and Eric Seats, the Soul Seekers is a veritable eight-member super group of hit making producers and award-winning musicians who together create a timeless expression of church music that appeals to fans of both traditional and contemporary Gospel. According to Warryn Campbell, the group is a “musical bridge between the past, present and future.”
“We are music’s next generation, but we are deliberate about maintaining a thread of Gospel’s roots in our music” says Campbell. “I feel very fortunate to be in business with Malaco, a label whose music I grew up on, and hope that our first release – Soul Seekers II – is as warmly received as our debut CD was.”
“Malaco houses the largest and oldest Gospel catalog in the world and we have always stayed true to the traditional quartet music. The Soul Seekers are the hot new quartet group that the industry is closely watching. Malaco views The Soul Seekers as the New Ambassadors of quartet music and look forward to helping the take quartet music to the mainstream states,” says Tommy Couch Jr. VP/Malaco Music Group
For more information on the The Soul Seekers:
E-Mail: pr@sovereignagency.com
www.thesoulseekersmusic.com
www.facebook.com/thesoulseekersmusic
www.twitter.com/thesoulseekers
Monday, July 12, 2010
Award-winning gospel singer Walter Hawkins dies
RIPON, Calif. (AP) — Walter Hawkins, a Grammy Award-winning gospel singer, composer and pastor from Oakland has died.
Family members say Hawkins passed away Sunday at his home in Ripon, Calif. He was 61.
Edwin Hawkins says his younger brother had been battling pancreatic cancer.
Born in Oakland, Walter Hawkins studied for his divinity degree at the University of California, Berkeley, where he recorded his first album entitled "Do Your Best" in 1972.
The next year Hawkins became a pastor and founded the Love Center Church in Oakland.
Friend and family representative Bill Carpenter says Hawkins later recorded a series of albums, earning nine Grammy Award nominations for his work. His "The Lord's Prayer" won a Grammy in 1980.
Family members say Hawkins passed away Sunday at his home in Ripon, Calif. He was 61.
Edwin Hawkins says his younger brother had been battling pancreatic cancer.
Born in Oakland, Walter Hawkins studied for his divinity degree at the University of California, Berkeley, where he recorded his first album entitled "Do Your Best" in 1972.
The next year Hawkins became a pastor and founded the Love Center Church in Oakland.
Friend and family representative Bill Carpenter says Hawkins later recorded a series of albums, earning nine Grammy Award nominations for his work. His "The Lord's Prayer" won a Grammy in 1980.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Ray Johnson, Father Of Jimmy Johnson, Passes
Ray Johnson, age 89, a native of Iuka, Miss., lived in Sheffield for more than 60 years, working until retirement as a crane operator at Reynold's Aluminum, and heading one of the most prominent families in the Muscle Shoals music industry.
Johnson was the father of Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section guitarist Jimmy Johnson, and grandfather of Jay Johnson, of The Southern Rock All-Stars. His early musical aspirations were shelved for decades while he raised his family, but emerged in 2000 when his son and grandson produced his first CD, "Cowboy Ray 2000."
Johnson began playing as a youngster with his older brother, Dexter. Performing as the Johnson Brothers, the duo built a following through weekly performances on Mid South radio programs during the late 1930s. When they began to perform, Ray was so young his feet couldn't touch the floor as he sat before the microphone at WNRA's studio in the Sheffield Hotel.
They moved to WMSD in Muscle Shoals when a fire destroyed the WNRA studios, and later were regulars on an hour-long lunchtime show broadcast by KLCN in Blytheville, Ark.
In 1940, Ray settled down, as Dexter continued to tour the Southeast with the Blue Seal Pals before returning to Sheffield to take a job with the Tennessee Valley Authority. Dexter moved into a house across the street from Ray, eventually converting his garage into the area's first recording studio.
Ray continued playing throughout his life as a hobby, and he and his wife, Hazel, were renown for the home-cooked meals and musical treats they served to celebrities working with their son at Muscle Shoals Sound. Among those that were privileged to participate in these private gatherings were The Oak Ridge Boys, The Staple Singers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Blackfoot, Levon Helm and producer Jerry Wexler.
"Jerry Wexler would come in to produce an album, and he would always want to come to my house," Ray explained during an interview after the release of his CD. "When we got through eating, he'd ask me and my wife to get out the guitar and sing."
Wexler became a devoted fan of the Johnsons' food and hospitality and especially their music.
"He was mesmerized by their harmony," Jimmy Johnson said. "Mother sang this unusual harmony. It almost sounded like she was singing under him. It was really unique."
The recording project was conceived during conversations between Jimmy Johnson and his partner at MSS, Roger Hawkins. Hawkins' father had also been a musician.
"Roger and I had talked about doing a record on our dads since the '60s and '70s," Johnson said. "Both our dads were in country music before we were born. But we procrastinated and put it off."
Johnson was inspired to begin the effort by Tony Hooper, a local guitarist/producer, who had recently completed an album with another unheralded older musician, local guitarist Lanky York.
Tony was persuasive," Johnson said. "He looked at me and said, 'You better do this.' "
By the time the recording got under way, Ray's wife, Hazel, was battling cancer. She died May 8, 1999, and the CD, which includes her and Ray's favorite songs, is dedicated to her memory.
After the release of the CD, Ray returned to the stage for some local performances.
On Tuesday morning, July 6, 2010, Ray passed away. The family will receive friends from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, July 8, 2010, at Morrison Funeral Home, Tuscumbia. The funeral service will follow in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow in Oakwood Cemetery, Sheffield. The Rev. James Taylor will officiate.
Ray is survived by his son, Jimmy Johnson and wife, Becky C. Johnson, of Muscle Shoals; grandson, Jay Johnson, Muscle Shoals; granddaughter, Kim (Lane) Tidwell, Killen, Ala.; great-grandsons, Jimmy Ray Johnson III and Trent Tidwell; great-granddaughter, Kayla Tidwell; sister, Mrs. Louise Harrison, Dyersburg, Tenn.; and nieces, Ida Ann Bean and Elsa Maye Crabtree.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Hazel Lewis Johnson; son, Earl Johnson; brothers, Dexter Johnson, Ellis Johnson, Edgar Johnson, Maskell Johnson, Mack Johnson; and sisters, Freda Matthews, Claire Gibbons, Verlan Deaton, Rachel Loveless, Peggy Diaz; and his parents, William Homer Johnson and Edith Ophelia Arnold Johnson, of Iuka, Miss., and the Shoals.
Ray was a member of First Baptist Church of Sheffield, IBEW local No. 558 and Sheffield Masonic "Blue" Lodge.
Pallbearers will be Jerry Borden, David Hood, Dewitt Bean, Bob Smith, Jerry Hodges and Rob Harrison. Honorary pallbearers will be Raymond Goode, Bobby Johnson, Frank Crabtree, Roger Hawkins, Bob Klose, Mark Willcutt and Mike Mihelic.
The family extends special gratitude to Anita and Scotty, of Southridge Place, and to Rita Van Dyke, of Green Oaks Inn.
Memorials may be made to the Alabama Music Hall of Fame, Tuscumbia, Ala.
Published in Florence Times Daily on July 7, 2010
Johnson was the father of Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section guitarist Jimmy Johnson, and grandfather of Jay Johnson, of The Southern Rock All-Stars. His early musical aspirations were shelved for decades while he raised his family, but emerged in 2000 when his son and grandson produced his first CD, "Cowboy Ray 2000."
Johnson began playing as a youngster with his older brother, Dexter. Performing as the Johnson Brothers, the duo built a following through weekly performances on Mid South radio programs during the late 1930s. When they began to perform, Ray was so young his feet couldn't touch the floor as he sat before the microphone at WNRA's studio in the Sheffield Hotel.
They moved to WMSD in Muscle Shoals when a fire destroyed the WNRA studios, and later were regulars on an hour-long lunchtime show broadcast by KLCN in Blytheville, Ark.
In 1940, Ray settled down, as Dexter continued to tour the Southeast with the Blue Seal Pals before returning to Sheffield to take a job with the Tennessee Valley Authority. Dexter moved into a house across the street from Ray, eventually converting his garage into the area's first recording studio.
Ray continued playing throughout his life as a hobby, and he and his wife, Hazel, were renown for the home-cooked meals and musical treats they served to celebrities working with their son at Muscle Shoals Sound. Among those that were privileged to participate in these private gatherings were The Oak Ridge Boys, The Staple Singers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Blackfoot, Levon Helm and producer Jerry Wexler.
"Jerry Wexler would come in to produce an album, and he would always want to come to my house," Ray explained during an interview after the release of his CD. "When we got through eating, he'd ask me and my wife to get out the guitar and sing."
Wexler became a devoted fan of the Johnsons' food and hospitality and especially their music.
"He was mesmerized by their harmony," Jimmy Johnson said. "Mother sang this unusual harmony. It almost sounded like she was singing under him. It was really unique."
The recording project was conceived during conversations between Jimmy Johnson and his partner at MSS, Roger Hawkins. Hawkins' father had also been a musician.
"Roger and I had talked about doing a record on our dads since the '60s and '70s," Johnson said. "Both our dads were in country music before we were born. But we procrastinated and put it off."
Johnson was inspired to begin the effort by Tony Hooper, a local guitarist/producer, who had recently completed an album with another unheralded older musician, local guitarist Lanky York.
Tony was persuasive," Johnson said. "He looked at me and said, 'You better do this.' "
By the time the recording got under way, Ray's wife, Hazel, was battling cancer. She died May 8, 1999, and the CD, which includes her and Ray's favorite songs, is dedicated to her memory.
After the release of the CD, Ray returned to the stage for some local performances.
On Tuesday morning, July 6, 2010, Ray passed away. The family will receive friends from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, July 8, 2010, at Morrison Funeral Home, Tuscumbia. The funeral service will follow in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow in Oakwood Cemetery, Sheffield. The Rev. James Taylor will officiate.
Ray is survived by his son, Jimmy Johnson and wife, Becky C. Johnson, of Muscle Shoals; grandson, Jay Johnson, Muscle Shoals; granddaughter, Kim (Lane) Tidwell, Killen, Ala.; great-grandsons, Jimmy Ray Johnson III and Trent Tidwell; great-granddaughter, Kayla Tidwell; sister, Mrs. Louise Harrison, Dyersburg, Tenn.; and nieces, Ida Ann Bean and Elsa Maye Crabtree.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Hazel Lewis Johnson; son, Earl Johnson; brothers, Dexter Johnson, Ellis Johnson, Edgar Johnson, Maskell Johnson, Mack Johnson; and sisters, Freda Matthews, Claire Gibbons, Verlan Deaton, Rachel Loveless, Peggy Diaz; and his parents, William Homer Johnson and Edith Ophelia Arnold Johnson, of Iuka, Miss., and the Shoals.
Ray was a member of First Baptist Church of Sheffield, IBEW local No. 558 and Sheffield Masonic "Blue" Lodge.
Pallbearers will be Jerry Borden, David Hood, Dewitt Bean, Bob Smith, Jerry Hodges and Rob Harrison. Honorary pallbearers will be Raymond Goode, Bobby Johnson, Frank Crabtree, Roger Hawkins, Bob Klose, Mark Willcutt and Mike Mihelic.
The family extends special gratitude to Anita and Scotty, of Southridge Place, and to Rita Van Dyke, of Green Oaks Inn.
Memorials may be made to the Alabama Music Hall of Fame, Tuscumbia, Ala.
Published in Florence Times Daily on July 7, 2010
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
DONDRIA VS PHATFFFAT PREVIEW
DONDRIA VS PHATFFFAT PREVIEW
Check out the preview of Dondria's new album brought to you by So So Def / Malaco.
Check out the preview of Dondria's new album brought to you by So So Def / Malaco.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Rev. F.C. Barnes Is Back With His Latest Offering
Mr. Rough Side Of The Mountain himself Rev. F.C. Barnes is back with his latest offering “(God Is God) He Won’t Change” featuring Darrell Luster spent 20 weeks on the Mediabase Gospel Top 30
Click on the link below and see how Gospel music appreciators react when they hear this song performed “Live” for the first time!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBdG85iIyaE
Thank you to following stations for your support…
WHLH – JACKSON, MS
KHLR - LITTLE ROCK
WYLD – NEW ORLEANS
WOAD - JACKSON, MS
WHLW – MONTGOMERY, AL
WLOK – MEMPHIS, TN
WSOK - SAVANNAH, GA
KATZ – ST LOUIS, MO
WEUP – HUNTSVILLE, AL
WXOK – BATON ROUGE, LA
KOKA – SHREVEPORT, LA
WNOO - CHATANOOGA, TN
Click on the link below and see how Gospel music appreciators react when they hear this song performed “Live” for the first time!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBdG85iIyaE
Thank you to following stations for your support…
WHLH – JACKSON, MS
KHLR - LITTLE ROCK
WYLD – NEW ORLEANS
WOAD - JACKSON, MS
WHLW – MONTGOMERY, AL
WLOK – MEMPHIS, TN
WSOK - SAVANNAH, GA
KATZ – ST LOUIS, MO
WEUP – HUNTSVILLE, AL
WXOK – BATON ROUGE, LA
KOKA – SHREVEPORT, LA
WNOO - CHATANOOGA, TN
BeBe and CeCe Winans To Be Honored With Stars On The Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2011
The Walk of Fame Committee of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has announced the famous folks whose names will be added to the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2011, and some locally connected artists are on the list.
Gospel stars and siblings BeBe and CeCe Winans are due to be honored with stars, as is country crew Rascal Flatts. Nashville area-reared actress Reese Witherspoon's name comes in under the Motion Pictures category, and talk-show queen Oprah Winfrey — another famous former Nashvillian — comes in the Television category.
Flatts and the Winans are joined in the Recording category by Melissa Etheridge, Slash, the Black Eyed Peas' Will.i.am and others. Buddy Holly and Louis Prima were named as posthumous honorees. Other big– and small-screen names listed include Gwyneth Paltrow (who was recently here in Nashville filming Love Don't Let Me Down with Tim McGraw), Tina Fey, Penelope Cruz and others.
~ Published by Nicole Keiper The Tennessean
Gospel stars and siblings BeBe and CeCe Winans are due to be honored with stars, as is country crew Rascal Flatts. Nashville area-reared actress Reese Witherspoon's name comes in under the Motion Pictures category, and talk-show queen Oprah Winfrey — another famous former Nashvillian — comes in the Television category.
Flatts and the Winans are joined in the Recording category by Melissa Etheridge, Slash, the Black Eyed Peas' Will.i.am and others. Buddy Holly and Louis Prima were named as posthumous honorees. Other big– and small-screen names listed include Gwyneth Paltrow (who was recently here in Nashville filming Love Don't Let Me Down with Tim McGraw), Tina Fey, Penelope Cruz and others.
~ Published by Nicole Keiper The Tennessean
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Southern Soul Radio Now Streaming LIVE Video
Southern Soul Radio (www.southernsoulradio.com) is now streaming 'LIVE' video. Tune in on your computer to watch Funky Larry Jones and DJ Outlaw Monday - Friday (7:00AM - 4:00PM CST). In case you miss a show, we have past shows available for viewing under the main player. We now feature daily polls and a chat room full of interesting topics. Pull us up and tell a friend. www.southernsoulradio.com!
Janet Jackson "Nothing" available now on iTunes
Movie Lovers,As you may know the reigning "King of Faith Base Stage Plays & Films" Mr. Tyler Perry newest film "Why Did I Get Married Too" will hit theatres on April 2, 2010.
The lead single from the "Why Did I Get Married Too" soundtrack is Janet Jackson’s song entitled "Nothing." (Produced by Jermaine Dupri)
Whether you are married, single, in love or have ever been in love, you can relate to this song for "God Is Love."
To download "Nothing" from iTunes, click here.
Enjoy!!!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Maurette Unplugged For Haiti
Pikesville, MD, February 23, 2010 -- Nettie’s Child Music and Management, LLC in conjunction with Rehoboth International Covenant Church is gearing up to sponsor “I Unplugged for Haiti...with Maurette Brown Clark”, a fundraiser benefit concert on Friday, March 5, 2010. The concert is set to begin at 7:30pm.
The concert will be held at Rehoboth International Covenant Church, 9016 Liberty Road, Randallstown, MD, where Apostle Chris and Cathy Williams are Pastors. Admission is free, but an offering will be taken, and attendees are urged to bring their best monetary donations.
All proceeds from the fundraiser will be forwarded to Bethel Gospel Assembly in Harlem, NY, in support of their ongoing Haiti Relief effort. During their first visit to Port Au Prince, Haiti, they were able to provide medical supplies and other essential items to earthquake victims. For more information about Bethel Gospel Assembly, please visit www.bethelga.org/haiti.aspx.
For more information regarding this fundraiser event, please contact us at www.maurettebrownclark.com.
The concert will be held at Rehoboth International Covenant Church, 9016 Liberty Road, Randallstown, MD, where Apostle Chris and Cathy Williams are Pastors. Admission is free, but an offering will be taken, and attendees are urged to bring their best monetary donations.
All proceeds from the fundraiser will be forwarded to Bethel Gospel Assembly in Harlem, NY, in support of their ongoing Haiti Relief effort. During their first visit to Port Au Prince, Haiti, they were able to provide medical supplies and other essential items to earthquake victims. For more information about Bethel Gospel Assembly, please visit www.bethelga.org/haiti.aspx.
For more information regarding this fundraiser event, please contact us at www.maurettebrownclark.com.
Major Roberson Of The Pilgrim Jubilees Passes
The Malaco Music Group regrets to announce the passing of Major Roberson, an original member of the legendary Quartet group, The Pilgrim Jubilees.
Major Roberson was born to this world on June 11, 1925 in Gunnison, MS and went home to be with the Lord Monday, March 1, 2010, 11:00 PM at his home in Chicago, IL.
Major Roberson was not only a singer, but an accomplished songwriter having written several songs for the famed group. His most notable songs were “The Old Ship Of Zion”, “The Doors Of The Church Are Open”, “Church Song”, “Don’t Let Me Drift Away”, “Exit 100”, “He Brought Joy To My Soul”, “Me My God And I”, & “Testify For Jesus.”
Major Roberson is survived by his wife Hattie Roberson, several children, a host of grand children and great grand children.
Arrangements have been scheduled as follows:
Friday, March 12, 2010 – 7:00 P.M.
“A Musical Tribute”
Gatling Chapel Annex
10133 S. Halsted St.
Chicago, Il 60628
773-881-4111
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Home going Celebration
Visitation: 10-11 AM- Funeral 11-12Noon
Greater White Stone MBC
3819 W. Ogden Ave.
Chicago, Il.60623
773-762-4113
For more information, to send flowers or cards of condolences, please contact:
Gatling’s Chapel
10133 S. Halsted St.
Chicago, Il. 60628
773-881-4111 Phone
773-881-3925 Fax
Or Val Grant 708-841-3319
For more information on the history of The Pilgrim Jubilees, please feel free to visit www.malaco.com
Major Roberson was born to this world on June 11, 1925 in Gunnison, MS and went home to be with the Lord Monday, March 1, 2010, 11:00 PM at his home in Chicago, IL.
Major Roberson was not only a singer, but an accomplished songwriter having written several songs for the famed group. His most notable songs were “The Old Ship Of Zion”, “The Doors Of The Church Are Open”, “Church Song”, “Don’t Let Me Drift Away”, “Exit 100”, “He Brought Joy To My Soul”, “Me My God And I”, & “Testify For Jesus.”
Major Roberson is survived by his wife Hattie Roberson, several children, a host of grand children and great grand children.
Arrangements have been scheduled as follows:
Friday, March 12, 2010 – 7:00 P.M.
“A Musical Tribute”
Gatling Chapel Annex
10133 S. Halsted St.
Chicago, Il 60628
773-881-4111
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Home going Celebration
Visitation: 10-11 AM- Funeral 11-12Noon
Greater White Stone MBC
3819 W. Ogden Ave.
Chicago, Il.60623
773-762-4113
For more information, to send flowers or cards of condolences, please contact:
Gatling’s Chapel
10133 S. Halsted St.
Chicago, Il. 60628
773-881-4111 Phone
773-881-3925 Fax
Or Val Grant 708-841-3319
For more information on the history of The Pilgrim Jubilees, please feel free to visit www.malaco.com
Friday, February 19, 2010
A Fallen Radio Angel
KFIT 1060 AM, in Austin, TX announces the passing of Station Manager Terri Lewis, on Monday, February 15, 2010 at Seton Medical Center, in Kyle, TX.
Terri was married to former radio and record industry veteran Jimmy Anthony. Mr. Anthony worked in such capacities as Program Director of WOAD 1300 AM, in Jackson, MS and National Radio Promotions for the Malaco Music Group. They were married in 1988 at the American Gospel Quartet Convention in Birmingham, AL.
Arrangements are as follows:
Memorial/Wake
Friday, 19 February 2010, at 7:00pm
St. Edward's B.C.
702 Montopolis Drive
Austin, Texas 78741
512-385-3564
Visitation: 9:00am
Saturday, 20 February 2010.
Services: 11:59am
Saturday, 20 February 2010
Mims Chapel COGIC
1801 East 38 1/2 Street
Austin, Texas 78722
512-482-8588
Bishop Joseph Coe, Sr Officiating
Pentecostal Tabernacle UGOCIC of America, Inc.
Cards or acknowledgements may be sent to the residence, 504 Pine Siskin Drive, Buda, TX 78610
Terri was married to former radio and record industry veteran Jimmy Anthony. Mr. Anthony worked in such capacities as Program Director of WOAD 1300 AM, in Jackson, MS and National Radio Promotions for the Malaco Music Group. They were married in 1988 at the American Gospel Quartet Convention in Birmingham, AL.
Arrangements are as follows:
Memorial/Wake
Friday, 19 February 2010, at 7:00pm
St. Edward's B.C.
702 Montopolis Drive
Austin, Texas 78741
512-385-3564
Visitation: 9:00am
Saturday, 20 February 2010.
Services: 11:59am
Saturday, 20 February 2010
Mims Chapel COGIC
1801 East 38 1/2 Street
Austin, Texas 78722
512-482-8588
Bishop Joseph Coe, Sr Officiating
Pentecostal Tabernacle UGOCIC of America, Inc.
Cards or acknowledgements may be sent to the residence, 504 Pine Siskin Drive, Buda, TX 78610
Thursday, February 18, 2010
673,000 VIEWERS TUNED IN TO WATCH CASTRO COLEMAN ON BET
The Malaco Music Group & 4 Winds Records is proud to announce that approximately 673,000 viewers tuned in to watch the national television debut of one of next generation’s Quartet superstars, Castro Coleman & Highly Favored on BET’s Bobby Jones Gospel this past Valentine’s Day Sunday, February 14, 2010 according to Nielsen’s BDS tabulations. (Arbitron tabulations TBA)
Castro Coleman & Highly Favored performed their debut single Time Out!!! which is rapidly approaching the Mediabase national Gospel chart Top 30 and their performance could only be described as “PURE QUARTETAINMENT” as they fused the best in Quartet music with basketball and high energy electrifying the studio audience.
Advise your twitter followers, facebook & myspace friends, listeners and readers that Castro Coleman & Highly Favored’s Time Out!!! CD & DVD will be available in stores on March 16, 2010 or they can go online NOW to order their copy right now. Click here to order!
Castro Coleman & Highly Favored performed their debut single Time Out!!! which is rapidly approaching the Mediabase national Gospel chart Top 30 and their performance could only be described as “PURE QUARTETAINMENT” as they fused the best in Quartet music with basketball and high energy electrifying the studio audience.
Advise your twitter followers, facebook & myspace friends, listeners and readers that Castro Coleman & Highly Favored’s Time Out!!! CD & DVD will be available in stores on March 16, 2010 or they can go online NOW to order their copy right now. Click here to order!
Monday, February 15, 2010
Castro Coleman & Highly Favored Appear On BET’s Bobby Jones Gospel
The Malaco Music Group & 4 Winds Records invites you to watch BET’s Bobby Jones Gospel this Valentine’s Day Sunday, February 14, 2010 to see the national television debut of one of next generation’s Quartet superstars, Castro Coleman & Highly Favored. (Check your local listings)
Castro Coleman & Highly Favored will be performing their debut single Time Out!!! which is rapidly approaching the Mediabase Top 30.
The Time Out!!! CD & DVD will be available in stores on March 16, 2010. The DVD features original concept videos, behind the scene footage along with the short film, Time Out!!! The Movie.
Castro Coleman & Highly Favored offer the best in Quartet music fused with basketball and a high energy, electrifying stage performance that can only be described as “PURE QUARTETAINMENT”
So before you go to church, spend the day with that special someone or prepare to watch the NBA All-star festivities, you’ve got to check out this never seen before performance.
Be prepared to be wowed!!!
Set your VCR’s, DVR’s & TIVO’s!!!
Castro Coleman & Highly Favored will be performing their debut single Time Out!!! which is rapidly approaching the Mediabase Top 30.
The Time Out!!! CD & DVD will be available in stores on March 16, 2010. The DVD features original concept videos, behind the scene footage along with the short film, Time Out!!! The Movie.
Castro Coleman & Highly Favored offer the best in Quartet music fused with basketball and a high energy, electrifying stage performance that can only be described as “PURE QUARTETAINMENT”
So before you go to church, spend the day with that special someone or prepare to watch the NBA All-star festivities, you’ve got to check out this never seen before performance.
Be prepared to be wowed!!!
Set your VCR’s, DVR’s & TIVO’s!!!
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Special Announcement From BeBe & CeCe Winans
BeBe & CeCe Winans would like to personally share with you their latest Valentine’s E-Card featuring their new single "I Found Love". To view it, simply click here.
Lil Blair Added To 4 Winds / Malaco Roster
At the American Gospel Quartet Convention in Birmingham this past week, during the Hall of Fame Luncheon, in front of a couple of hundred witnesses, 4 Winds / Malaco signed Lil Blair & The Fantastic Heirs. WHAAAAT! Lil Blair & The Fantastic Heirs, WHAAAAT! Lil Blair & The Fantastic Heirs… OKAY!!! (Couldn’t resist) Lol!!!
Formally known as Lil Blair & The Fantastic Violinaires, the group has officially dropped that name to begin a new era in their Quartet Gospel ministry and music recording career.
In my opinion, Lil Blair is much too young and talented to spend his entire career as what may be perceived by some to be a gimmick or tribute band to his mentor, the late great Robert Blair. I am excited that he has chosen to honor the Quartet legend and keep his legacy alive by taking everything he had learned from him and applying it to his own unique ministry in which Robert Blair himself gave his blessings and passed the mantle to as his true apparent heir.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
R&B Singer Pendergrass Dead In Pa. At 59
R&B legend Teddy Pendergrass died Wednesday evening, his former publicist said. He was 59.
Pendergrass, known for smash love ballads such as "Turn Off the Lights" and "Love TKO," died after a long illness, according to Lisa Barbaris, who described herself as a close friend and his last publicist.
He died at a hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he was born.
His family did not reveal details about his illness, but said it was related to complications from a 1982 car accident, Barbaris said.
"His beloved family surrounded him. The world has lost one of its greatest voices and performers," a statement from Barbaris said.
"His family is devastated. He has three children and, even though it was expected, it still hurts," she said.
The crooner, who many affectionately knew as just "Teddy," started in music with a group called the Cadillacs in the late 1960s and was still with the group when it merged with Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, according to his official Web site.
He started as a drummer, but soon began to sing lead after the group heard his powerful voice.
In 1972, Pendergrass's baritone could be heard on the classic Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes song "If You Don't Know Me by Now."
The song became a No. 1 hit across the country and led Pendergrass to many other hits and accolades.
After going solo, Pendergrass received several Grammy nominations, Billboard's 1977 Pop Album New Artist Award and an American Music Award for best R&B performer of 1978, Barbaris said.
In 1982, Pendergrass was involved in a car accident that left him paralyzed. But Pendergrass returned to the studio in 1984 in his wheelchair to record an album.
Before his death, Pendergrass was working on a musical documenting his life, called "I Am Who I Am."
~ CNN 1/14/2010
Pendergrass, known for smash love ballads such as "Turn Off the Lights" and "Love TKO," died after a long illness, according to Lisa Barbaris, who described herself as a close friend and his last publicist.
He died at a hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he was born.
His family did not reveal details about his illness, but said it was related to complications from a 1982 car accident, Barbaris said.
"His beloved family surrounded him. The world has lost one of its greatest voices and performers," a statement from Barbaris said.
"His family is devastated. He has three children and, even though it was expected, it still hurts," she said.
The crooner, who many affectionately knew as just "Teddy," started in music with a group called the Cadillacs in the late 1960s and was still with the group when it merged with Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, according to his official Web site.
He started as a drummer, but soon began to sing lead after the group heard his powerful voice.
In 1972, Pendergrass's baritone could be heard on the classic Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes song "If You Don't Know Me by Now."
The song became a No. 1 hit across the country and led Pendergrass to many other hits and accolades.
After going solo, Pendergrass received several Grammy nominations, Billboard's 1977 Pop Album New Artist Award and an American Music Award for best R&B performer of 1978, Barbaris said.
In 1982, Pendergrass was involved in a car accident that left him paralyzed. But Pendergrass returned to the studio in 1984 in his wheelchair to record an album.
Before his death, Pendergrass was working on a musical documenting his life, called "I Am Who I Am."
~ CNN 1/14/2010
B HAMP….The artist that brought you “Do The Rick Bobby” is back!
Brandon “B-Hamp” Hampton is the artist responsible for the dance craze that swept the nation “Do the Ricky Bobby”. This song that was based off of the movie “Talledega Nights” quickly took off throughout the states of Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas and Georgia and eventually became a hit on BET staying on the 106 & Park countdown for over 6 weeks.
After peeking at number 68 on the Billboard hot 100, B-Hamp is now working on his sophomore project with yet another club banger that will have the nation dancing. “Fooly” the club phenomenon that is once again taking off in Texas is the lead single from his sophomore project which is currently untitled and industry experts are saying that this one will go further than the Ricky Bobby.
Brandon is very proud to be responsible for not only his career but the beginning of a number of other artist careers under his label CKB. Now that CKB has joined with the industry veterans at Malaco Records they are preparing to once again sweep the nation with another B-Hamp classic and B-Hamp is preparing to take his new label mates with him.
So what’s next in the works B-Hamp? A movie deal is being discussed with one of the leading independent film entertainment studios in the country and a sunglass deal that has been signed with Forever the K. Michael Collection with major marketing being slated to begin in the summer of 2010. These two major steps along with working with up and coming artist signed to CKB entertainment will make 2010 a very busy year for raps newest superstar.
After peeking at number 68 on the Billboard hot 100, B-Hamp is now working on his sophomore project with yet another club banger that will have the nation dancing. “Fooly” the club phenomenon that is once again taking off in Texas is the lead single from his sophomore project which is currently untitled and industry experts are saying that this one will go further than the Ricky Bobby.
Brandon is very proud to be responsible for not only his career but the beginning of a number of other artist careers under his label CKB. Now that CKB has joined with the industry veterans at Malaco Records they are preparing to once again sweep the nation with another B-Hamp classic and B-Hamp is preparing to take his new label mates with him.
So what’s next in the works B-Hamp? A movie deal is being discussed with one of the leading independent film entertainment studios in the country and a sunglass deal that has been signed with Forever the K. Michael Collection with major marketing being slated to begin in the summer of 2010. These two major steps along with working with up and coming artist signed to CKB entertainment will make 2010 a very busy year for raps newest superstar.
Mississippi Mass Choir to be honored - again
The award-winning Mississippi Mass Choir will add another honor to the heap Saturday at the 25th annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards in Nashville.
The choir will receive the Thomas A. Dorsey Notable Achievement Award, named for the Father of Gospel Music, at the event, the Malaco Music Group announced. The award recognizes outstanding work in the gospel music community and the Mississippi Mass Choir is only the second recipient of the award.
The Mississippi Mass Choir made their national debut at the awards in 1989 and picked up four honors — Choir of the Year, Artist of the Year, Record of the Year and Best Gospel Music Video.
They've won or have numerous nominations for every music industry award in addition to the Stellar, including the Grammy, Soul Train, Dove, National Association of Record Merchandisers, 3M Visionary, Mississippi Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts and more.
The choir now has a membership of 250.
"We are all about our Father's business," choir executive director Jerry Mannery is quoted as saying in a release. "We are not entertainers, we are ministers for Christ. Our mission remains constant; to serve the Lord and spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ."
~ Clarion Ledger 1/11/2010
The choir will receive the Thomas A. Dorsey Notable Achievement Award, named for the Father of Gospel Music, at the event, the Malaco Music Group announced. The award recognizes outstanding work in the gospel music community and the Mississippi Mass Choir is only the second recipient of the award.
The Mississippi Mass Choir made their national debut at the awards in 1989 and picked up four honors — Choir of the Year, Artist of the Year, Record of the Year and Best Gospel Music Video.
They've won or have numerous nominations for every music industry award in addition to the Stellar, including the Grammy, Soul Train, Dove, National Association of Record Merchandisers, 3M Visionary, Mississippi Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts and more.
The choir now has a membership of 250.
"We are all about our Father's business," choir executive director Jerry Mannery is quoted as saying in a release. "We are not entertainers, we are ministers for Christ. Our mission remains constant; to serve the Lord and spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ."
~ Clarion Ledger 1/11/2010
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