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DA GOSPEL TRUTH PROFILES MARTIN WILLIAMS

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Martin Williams is a newborn in the Gospel Industry. Basically I’m calling him a baby, (lol) but only because of his age. His work is anything but young! It’s professional, insightful and wise beyond years.

It’s evident why Gospel Music Channel and Gospelflava.com scooped Williams up and added him to their successful roster of contributing writers.

Martin Williams is an up and comer who is doing it the right way. So all of you out there who want to know how to get in the business you might want to start taking notes starting about…NOW!

You’re in school right now…what are you studying and does it have a direct connection with what you want to do in the Gospel Industry?

First of all let me just start out by telling you Thank You! This is the first time anyone has taken the time out to talk to me; it’s normally the other way around, so I really appreciate you for the opportunity. Yes, I am in school at American InterContinental University here in Atlanta. I am majoring in Entertainment Sports and Marketing. The funny thing is I began doing things in my field before I even got started on my major core classes. The hands on experience that I have been able to experience taught me so much more than a textbook could per say. I’m finding that my “career” if that’s what I can call, it is taking a different turn into the journalism field. I had no idea that I would be blogging and writing like I’m doing. I remember when I was first approached about the idea; my response was who would read what I have to say. I honestly didn’t feel that I had an influential voice that would draw people and make them pay attention. In high school and college my teachers always said I could be a great writer, but I never really paid any attention to it. But I see now it’s all coming together to paint one big picture. I have a pocket full of dreams and things that I want to do in Entertainment, my prayer now is that God’s perfect will to be done in my life. That phrase is used so much, but in this season of my life it’s what I have had to stand on.

Tell me exactly what you do and how you got your start working in the Gospel industry?

That’s a good question and I am asked that a lot! LOL I am the Atlanta blogger for Gospel Music Channel’s “GBeat”. GBeat is the blog section on their site and they have bloggers placed in certain markets and I was chosen for Atlanta.  I am also a contributing writer for GospelFlava.com.  I started out as an intern for Gospel Music Channel and Canton Jones’ company CaJo International in the summer of 2007 when I was about to enter into my senior year of high school. I got a chance to work under the dynamic Alvin Williams while at GMC. He was my boss and really groomed and showed me some of the in’s and outs of Gospel. I was able to see the company launch and grow to where it is now. I got the opportunity to meet and work with CeCe Winans, Israel and New Breed, Mary Mary, and countless others. Simultaneously I was interning at Canton’s company and traveling with him on the weekends whenever my schedule would allow. So I would be in the GMC office one minute and then on an airplane the next day. I left GMC as an intern when I started my freshman year of College, and then I was contacted during the summer going into my sophomore year that they wanted me to blog for their site. So it was there I began blogging. In the process of that, I got a chance to meet a guy who I had admired for so many years, Gerard Bonner. Gerard and I exchanged information and I became connected with Bonnerfide Radio and my life has never been the same. He’s like family to me now.  I remember we all were getting ready to head to Nashville for the Stellar Awards, and he hit me up and said Melanie Clark the CEO of Gospel Flava wanted to talk to me. This was a dream come true because I had been a fan of the entire Gospel Flava family and always wanted to be apart, but I never knew how I would make the connection or if the opportunity would even come. So I am eternally grateful for them taking a chance on me.

What’s the most difficult part about being so young and trying to navigate through this industry?

Wow! It’s hard to even put that part into words. I think the most difficult part is being so young and working hard to be respected. I’m still young and growing and learning in this game every single day.  I’m constantly trying to network and get my name out there because some are like who is thing young man? Contraire to what some may say, everybody doesn’t know Martin Williams! I still have a long way to go and have leaps and boundaries that I have to overcome and doors that I have to go into. The field that I am in is one that is very hard to break into and it can almost feel like a country club at times. If you want to be at the forefront and in the know you have to know the right individuals, network and put the work in. My goal and purpose is to be informative, real, and relatable. I grew up in the church and sang in the youth choir and the adult choir, so I was introduced to good music at a young age. So when I am asked my opinion about a song or album, it’s given from the perspective of someone who knows a little something about music.

What is the biggest misconception about what you do?

The biggest misconception is that what I do is easy and that when you sign up for it, things and opportunities will come to you easy.  Many people think because I am doing all of this stuff that I make a ridiculous salary and that’s not the case at all. If you want to do this it’s truly a labor of love. Everyone in this field is truly working hard and grinding to do what they do. All of my colleagues work hard to maintain. It’s truly a faith walk. I’ve had to get out there and network, network, network. I had to introduce myself to the artist, meet the producers, BGVs, songwriters all of that.  There are days when you don’t think what you are doing is making an impact and you want to give up. To be in this industry, you have to have a personal relationship with God, a life of prayer, praise and worship. That will make your skin tougher and you learn to not rely on your own strength. I’ve been blessed to meet a lot of great people, one of which is Fantasia. I remember one day I wasn’t feeling well at all and she called me and said always remember, “Even angels learn how to fly. Keep on pressing babe.”  That stuck with me and whenever I need that reminder, I just think about what she told me.

Who are your top 5 favorite Gospel artists?

Now Gerald don’t ask me that question, lol! You know that’s a tough question because I love so many of them. But If I had to narrow it down to five, I would have to say CeCe Winans, Mary Mary, DeWayne Woods, Kirk Franklin, and Marvin Sapp.

Who are your mentors in this industry and what have you learned from them.

Melanie Clark- My lessons from Melanie are endless! She’s like a mother to me, even though she’s too young to have a 20-year-old son! LOL But Melanie has taught me to be diplomatic, remain professional, but always be true to who you are and to know there is greatness on the inside of you.  She’s always challenging me to go deep, and that your words have power, so use them wisely.

Gerard Bonner- Uncle Gerard as I like to call him is the ultimate encourager. Gerard has taught me that support is everything and that you can change someone’s life by just giving them a chance.

Torrence Glenn- Torrence is the ultimate big brother. He’s taught me to be true to myself, and don’t be afraid to speak the truth. He told me it was okay to be different and it was okay if everybody didn’t like me! He told me that people will try to make this a competition but it’s not, there is room for everyone’s gift.

Gerald Jones- You sir, have showed me that it’s okay to ask those tough questions that everyone is thinking. I love how real and genuine your work is and it always has that hint of sarcasm that just makes it perfect and relatable.

Editors note: I didn’t pay him to say this, but I like what he said! lol

Jawn Murray – I love how he holds down so many different arenas. He’s one of the leading journalists in his field and his commentary is usually spot on. He’s another one that I grew up observing and paying attention to what he does.

http://Gmclife.com/gbeat/martin

THE MERGE SUMMIT LA LESS THAN A MONTH AWAY! FOUNDER DR. HOLLY CARTER EXPLAINS WHY YOU CAN’T MISS THIS YEAR!

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If there is one conference you should mark on your calendar as a “must attend” event this year, The Merge Summit LA is it! The second annual conference based out of Los Angeles, CA begins on August 26th-28th, 2010. www.themergesummit.com

After seeing some of the biggest names from Hollywood and the Gospel community on the same bill, I knew I NEEDED to sit down with the Founder/Chairperson, Dr. Holly Carter, to find out how she managed to put together such a dynamic and innovative three-day event.

Tell me how The Merge Summit LA came about?

The Merge Summit LA was birthed while I was writing my thesis for my doctoral program. I was writing on merging the sacred and the secular, Christianity and Hollywood. During the length of time it took me to write that paper, I was also working in the entertainment business. It was an interesting dynamic being a Christian and seeing the different nuances and different happenings in Hollywood and the impact it had on the community of believers. So I felt it was necessary to create an opportunity that would bring a body of believers, those in the world of Hollywood and the Gospel community, where they could effect, impact, and hopefully change some of the influences that are portrayed in the entertainment community. I think that, at the end of the day, with me traveling, promoting my artists and different movies that I need to expose and platform the body of believers that have creative art, creative gifts that can cross over into the mainstream marketplace with the hope that they would make an impact for the Kingdom of God.

What type of company do you run?

My company, Releve’ Entertainment, is a family and faith- based management and production company. We manage artists and produce family, faith-based films and television. My clients include Mary Mary, Detrick Haddon, Kierra Sheard, Cece Winans, Donnie McClurkin as well as other well known names.

Why is it so hard for mainstream media and gospel to co-exist?

They are two different ideologies. The gospel market comes with strong positions of faith and the mainstream market comes with what it represents. It requires a gentle handling to merge. That is what the summit is about. It’s about gently connecting communities together in a way where they both benefit. One of the features of the conference is the Saturday morning leadership panel. That panel is comprised of three entities; entertainment, corporate America and the church. I’ve got 5 pastors, 5 corporate leaders and entertainment leaders. The purpose of it is to foster a discussion on how the three industries can engage to create relationships and opportunities amongst each of the audiences. I did that because each industry needs each other. The religious community needs branding, entertainment needs the church to go see their movies and corporate brands need both industries.

Who are some of the people that will be participating this year?

Denzel Washington’s wife, Pauletta Washington, will be opening the summit in what we call “Midnight at the Merge.” That’s where our local pastors, our celebrity VIP panelist, and our attendees can come and do red carpet photos and rub elbows. There’s music and an address to open the night and get everyone excited for what’s to come.

There’s an artist showcase Hezekiah Walker is hosting for the second year in a row. Kirk Franklin will host and perform at the Merge concert, which is a benefit concert for my father who passed this year. Along with Kirk, J. Moss The Soul Seekers and Isaac Carree will be performing. Hezekiah Walker and Chrisette Michele will teach a class on expanding your ministry to the mainstream audience. Kirk Franklin will be leading a class based on his brand new book of the same name, ”The Blueprint.” Neicy Nash will do a class on sharing the journey and living the dream. Wendy Raquel and Tia Mowery from “The Game” will be participating in an actor’s panel and workshop along with Terry Lennox. Obviously we’ve got talent agents, managers, producers, directors, writers who have worked on hit shows such as “Everybody Hates Chris,” “Friends” and “Gossip Girl.” We also have the Senior VP of Programming for Showtime Networks and ABC’s casting director. We’ve got a lot high profile industry executives and talent to give a person that’s coming up an opportunity to interface, partner with and be inspired to go back and get themselves in gear.

Who are some of the sponsors that helped you put The Merge Summit LA together?

Johnson Products, Upscale Magazine, Verity Gospel, Columbia Records, BMI Publishing, Kaiser Permanente, Wellness Interactive and Bronner Bros. Those are my partners in this, they came to the table last year, they came stronger this year and my hope is that they’ll stay with me. They have really made this possible in terms of really being able to lay this out and provide a great summit for the attendees. So I really want to say thank you.

For more information on how to register and attend go to www.themergesummit.com

For more information on Releve Enterainment go to http://www.releve-ent.com/

DA GOSPEL TRUTH PROFILES CEO & FOUNDER OF GOSPELFLAVA.COM MELANIE CLARK

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I would say there is no need for an introduction, but I’ll make this one short! Melanie Clark is beloved by many in the Gospel industry and has worked super hard to create a name that is held in such high esteem among her colleagues.  And because of this she is someone I want all of you to know about! So without further a due, Melanie Clark…

How did you get your start in the Gospel industry? And tell me about all the different things you do.

Well as the story goes, I grew up singing in my church choir, and then for many years with the late Rev. Donald Vails while I lived in DC. I moved to Charlotte in the mid-90’s and had some fun singing with Pastor John P. Kee. I was working my day job and singing with him on the weekends or whenever I had a chance. That involvement in the industry sparked an interest in the behind the scenes stuff.

I was a frequent visitor to the site Gospel International and had met some folks in the chatroom there. Oftentimes, by virtue of the various places we were working in the industry, we’d have information about what was going on before it was posted. So I drafted a template and called a few guys (James Robinson, Stan North, Gerard Bonner and the late Mark Tilles) and told them we should do this. Some of them didn’t know each other. Most of us had little web experience and definitely no programming experience, but we came together and got it done. In 1997 Gospelflava.com was born. Funny, the guys picked the name. I didn’t like it, but it was a democracy and that’s what won.

My jobs? Yikes! Well, first of all, I’m a mommy! My favorite job! Then I am the CEO and Founder of Gospelflava.com. I am partner in ownership and I’m not sure what else of Evidence Gospel Records (lol!) – home of Youthful Praise (yay!).  James Robinson pretty much runs that.  I am drive-time host of Radio One’s Praise 100.9 in Charlotte. I also have a small faith-based e-blast service in the Carolinas, The Power List.

Why do you think Gospelflava.com has been so successful and is still thriving today?

I don’t know! We never really set goals. We never really had business aspirations. Honestly, the only thing we all agreed on was that NONE OF US wanted to be “out front”. We weren’t much of personalities. It was all about the brand. And that was largely about integrity and edification. It all sounds pious and deep now, but it was just kind of who we were. We didn’t want to be associated with certain types of news. Not that I’m mad at anyone who is – it just wasn’t for us. I think that’s the beauty of the industry. There is something for everyone. Everyone has a place and a position. But to answer your question, I think our longevity can be credited to two things. One key part is knowing who we are in the landscape of gospel media and never trying to play outside our part.  It doesn’t mean you don’t grow, but that you don’t compromise what brought you to the game in the beginning. You have to be careful not to succumb to the pressure to answer people who don’t understand why we do what we do – or for that matter why we don’t do what we don’t do. And the other is establishing and maintaining relationships. We live this. The people in the industry are our friends. The same people we interview are the same people whose weddings we attend.  The people we connect with at industry events – our children are friends. I have a business conversation and then have the “girlfriend” conversation with many of my associates.

Where do you see the Gospel industry in 5 years?

Clearly social media is at the forefront right now. I think that trend will continue, but we will break new ways to monetize the numbers that we are able to interact with. I think in general we’ll see more grassroots efforts gain profitability (sales of singles, indie success, underground artists) because of it. The middle channel is less and less necessary. If artists are smart they will begin to see more of the dollar they put out for production come back in profit. The trouble is people are turned on by volume. But the math tells us that 5% of 20,000 is the same as 50% of 2,000.

Give me your top 5 favorite Gospel artists?

Using the term “gospel” VERY loosely (lol!) Even though one of them is a CCM artist, one is MY artist, one is no longer with us and the other one is a Pop star – I’m inspired by a lot of different things!

Fred Hammond

Sara Groves

Youthful Praise

Thomas Whitfield

James Taylor

I know you get a lot of people trying to give you their demo. What is your best advice to an aspiring artist or writer that is trying to get noticed?

Work where you are. Play your current position well. If that’s at church…do that. If you have a burgeoning local ministry…do that.  Everybody is in a hurry to get “there,” but the truth of the matter is no one who is major and on the scene now, got there overnight. Yolanda Adams started out as a teen with the Southeast Inspirational Choir. Fred Hammond was on the road with The Winans and of course then Commissioned.  Kirk Franklin and Kurt Carr worked with Workshop choirs through the years. Pastor Donnie McClurkin did the play circuit and New York Restoration. It takes time and it should.

ISAAC CARREE

ISAAC CARREE

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Isaac Carree is best known as one of the front vocalists for one of the most popular contemporary Gospel quartets, Men of Standard. 5 albums in and a greatest hits CD, MOS decided to take an indefinite hiatus and individually pursue outside endeavors.

As Isaac prepares to release his first debut CD “Uncommon Me,” coming this September, I sat down with him to find out exactly why Men of Standard actually took a break, why he and Lowell released CD’s at the same time and what we can expect from “Uncommon Me.”

How did Men of Standard come together?

Well, after singing with John P. Kee, Lowell and I were just trying to find our way from a musical standpoint. I started doing stage plays with Michael Matthews from ’94-’96. In ’96, Lowell and I decided to start Men of Standard. The crazy part was it was only the two of us, so we had to find two more members. I knew Bryan from one of the plays. I knew he had a dope voice, a great personality and he was a preacher.  So we recruited Bryan and another friend introduced us to Michael, so that’s how the group started.

Why do you think male groups tend to stay together longer than female groups?

Guys don’t hold on to stuff. Guys aren’t emotional like that. We have issues, we talk about it, we fuss, we may fight, but when it’s over with, it’s over. We are able to separate business from everything else. So with that being said, Men of Standard was able to gel and have a chemistry that allowed us to always be honest and trustworthy. We never let anybody divide the group. We knew people were trying to get Lowell to do a solo album and others were trying to get me to do a solo album outside the group. But we didn’t let those things infiltrate the group. We showed loyalty to each other.

Why did Mike leave the group?

Mike wanted to do some other things. Mike is a writer and he really wanted to do some mainstream stuff. He felt like his time with the group was up. It was funny because we had just gotten out of our deal with Malaco Records and we were about to sign with Sony. We were like, “Are you sure you want to walk away now?” He said he was burned out, so we totally understood. But all of us still talk either everyday or at least once a week.

The money was being split four ways. Were you financially ok?

Interestingly enough, we were making money all those years, and that’s all we did. If you think about it, praise and worship gigs weren’t the jumpoff back then. These days everyone has a church gig now. If you were trying to do music, you didn’t have another outlet if you weren’t doing shows or concerts or if you weren’t writing or producing. God stayed with us!  We would record a CD almost every 2 years and after that we would do shows. We would do so many shows in between that money was always coming in. On top of that, back then there was only one of us in the group that was married, which was Bryan. So we didn’t have the large overhead of families. But don’t get it twisted, in the beginning we could take care of our bills, but that was about it!!

How did you guys agree on taking a break from Men of Standard? Was everyone in favor of it?

About two and half years ago we were doing a show in Milwaukee at Bishop Hines’ church. Some things had been tugging on us individually and we hadn’t communicated it to each other because we didn’t want anyone to feel abandoned. Wanting to go in a different direction could take money out of someone else’s mouth. So we all sat down after the conference and laid it all out. Bryan expressed that as a pastor he needed to be at his church on a consistent basis and Lowell and I wanted to do some different things. When you’re doing things collectively God can bless you, but He also has things for you individually. And what happens is you get so comfortable being in a collective situation that you miss out on all of your individual blessings.

So was it your plan to do a solo album?

I never wanted to do a solo album. I was always cool singing background. So we sat down as a group and put together a five to seven year plan. I wanted Low and I to do a duet album, like Dawkins&Dawkins or Mary Mary. But Lowell felt it was our time to do separate projects. So he was really instrumental in pushing me out there!

Why is it that your CD and Lowell’s are being released so close to each other? It could appear to be a little competitive.

The reason we’ve done albums at the same time is because we don’t think it will affect one another. Lowell’s style of singing and music is totally different than mine. He is more of a quartet church dude, who can do contemporary. I am more of a contemporary, urban dude, who can do church. It’s like if J. Moss and Smokie Norful put out an album at the same time, they pretty much wont affect each other in a negative way. So ultimately, if I win, he wins and if he wins, I win, because we’re a team. I know people are going to come out and say well I like Lowell’s better than Ike’s or vice versa, but it’s all to our benefit.

What is your biggest fear as a solo artist?

It’s funny that you asked me that because I know the bible says, “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of love, power and a sound mind.” But I really struggle with fear in my life: fear of dying, fear of not accomplishing goals, fear of people not liking my music, etc.  I read books about it, I talk to Kirk, talk to different people, different artists and pastors who I trust spiritually to help me through this process. To know it’s me, myself and I when I step on stage puts me in a place where I have to totally lean and depend on God and that’s scary, man. It’s more mental than anything else. The spiritual side of it is that I don’t want to ever walk on stage so confident where I don’t have to lean and depend on God.

When is the album “Uncommon Me” going to be released?

Well, the single, “Redeemed” is on iTunes now. But the full album is coming in September! I worked with some really great producers. I worked with Adonis (Beyoncé, Alicia Keys), Warryn Campbell (Mary Mary), Harold Lilly (Fantasia, Angie Stone) and others! I have a duet with Eric Dawkins from Dawkins and Dawkins that is incredible. And I went back to where I started and did a song with John P. Kee.  I’m just excited about the whole album! This album was designed and originated to show people who Isaac Caree really is because you never really get the true essence of a person as long as they’re behind someone else.

What’s behind the title “Uncommon Me?”

I entitled this project “Uncommon Me” because in this journey I found things about myself that I didn’t realize from a musical and personality stand point.  I had to see my fears, my insecurities and my shortcomings. I had people fooled like I had it all together, but I didn’t.  I grew up in a home without a father, which devastated me. Then I got married at a young age, had two kids and then divorced because I never had a father to show me how to be a good man.  Then I got remarried six years ago and I have a wonderful family, but even still, having to blindly walk this road alone, just God and me, is scary. God said,” I don’t want you to be common. I don’t want you to be regular. I don’t want you to just be ordinary, be extraordinary. Get back to who I made you to be and who I made you is the good, the bad, and the ugly”. What we try to do is cover up the bad with the good and make people think that we got it all together, and God’s like, “No, I want to use your ugly too. Your ugly is going to help somebody else come out.” So I entitled the record “Uncommon Me.”

How do you feel about Gospel artists being called “celebrities?”

How can you be a Gospel artist, but be a celebrity? That is the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard. I’m not saying you can’t be successful, but success doesn’t equal celebrity. I don’t think the gospel was intended for people to be celebrities and stars. Bill Gates is not a celebrity. He’s successful and rich, but that doesn’t make him a celebrity. Beyoncé is a celebrity. Usher is a celebrity. The genre of music and the lifestyle they’re in can put them in that platform. But we don’t sing about ourselves, we sing about a Higher Power, we sing about Jesus. So they can sing about their cars, their houses, their cribs, their jewelry, their wives, and whatever else. Everything that we sing is about Jesus, so how does that make me a celebrity? I’m glorifying somebody else. So I just don’t get that whole thing. I said that to say, I’m a regular person.

ISAAC’S 10 RANDOM TRUTHS

  1. 1. Favorite Kirk Franklin song? “Hosanna.”
  2. 2. Least favorite Men of Standard song? “MOS Praise Party.”
  3. 3. Smokie Norful or Deitrick Haddon? Deitrick Haddon.
  4. 4. Bungee jump or skydive? Skydive.
  5. 5. Favorite R&B female singer? Brandy.
  6. 6. Most underrated female Gospel singer? Crystal Aikin.
  7. 7. 112, Dru Hill, Jagged Edge or Boyz II Men? 112.
  8. 8. Favorite ice cream flavor? Breyers butter pecan
  9. 9. A song you wish you would have recorded? “Let Go” by DeWayne Woods.
  10. Take 6, Commissioned, The Winans or Men Standard? Of course Commissioned.
KIRK FRANKLIN

KIRK FRANKLIN

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He has shared the stage with some of the biggest superstars in the world and coincidentally he’s a mega super star himself. The difference between Kirk Franklin and his elite comrades is that you can hear his music in any church on any given weekend, but also right after Jay-Z spits 16 bars on one of his many hits on the radio. But, the biggest distinction is you always know who he’s singing about and who he’s living for!

Now, Kirk Franklin is adding another notch under his belt by adding author to his long list of accolades and accomplishments. “The Blueprint” is Franklin’s help guide to improve your life’s journey with a few useful tips from Kirk and of course, Jesus Christ!

What are we going to learn about Kirk Franklin from “The Blueprint?”

The book is not autobiographical. It’s more about life lessons I’m sharing. I believe there are biblical principles that have a swag to them that can entertain while inspiring and creating a strong dialogue about God’s plans for our lives. I talk about how we can live out God’s plan in singlehood, in our marriage, sexuality and in our faith. So that’s my goal. The book is not necessarily to give you a deeper insight to Kirk, even though I use a lot of personal illustrations.

What did you learn about yourself from writing this book?

I learned I have a lot more growth to do when it comes to discipline. It was hard as all outdoors writing this book. This was one of the most challenging projects I’ve ever done because it takes so much discipline. It’s not like writing a song. Writing a song is work, but this a whole different type of work. You don’t have a melody or a beat to inspire you. It was just me in a hotel room or upstairs in my room with my computer, digging! That takes a lot of discipline. I’m learning more from the book now than I did when I was writing it because I was just regurgitating and dumping stuff that was in my mind.

Within the last year what has been one of your biggest storms?

My greatest storm to always overcome is myself. I’m a lot to deal with. Just learning how to rest and be able to trust that God knows exactly what He’s doing and having faith and giving up my will and power for His is a job in itself.

What is your blueprint for your 4 children as a father?

As a father I want to be their blueprint, until they are able to walk on their own. I want them to be able to learn from my life. It’s easy to put on the “Jesus stuff” for those who don’t know you, but the ones who do really get to see the real thing, that is the greatest job and call ever, to be a light in your own home.

Do you have days when you feel you weren’t the best father or husband you could be?

Yes, of course! You always look in every area of your life whether it’s a father, husband, friend or a musician, especially for my personality. I’m always second-guessing and double-checking, almost like a maniac. It’s like I always overanalyze every little move and detail.  What I always come back to and rest in is that God is sovereign and even in my mistakes God takes them and uses them for His glory.

Do you ever go back and listen to your music and think it wasn’t as hot as you thought it was?

There have been many times I’ve gone back and listened to something and wasn’t feeling it like I was when I recorded it. There are times when I feel really disconnected or feel like I’m performing more than I’m being inspired. It can get dicey because you can start moving in the flesh trying to make a hit or crossover. The greatest thing I appreciate about the walk is the opportunity of grace. It always gives me the opportunity to confess my wrong and know that He is waiting to give me forgiveness and mercy. God exists to give me grace. That is so dope to me. And for humans that is so far beyond our understanding.

You’ve had a sister who was addicted to crack, a near death experience, a mother who abandoned you and didn’t want you, yet the public sees you as a big superstar. How would you encourage someone who thinks Kirk Franklin couldn’t possibly understand my struggle?

Behind every song is a story. Whoever you see publicly is because of what I’ve gone through privately. Endure what you’re facing privately because it makes a stronger public person, so if and when you do stand publicly to defend your faith or testify about your faith and believe what you believe about why He’s been so good to you. Those pink slips, those difficult times, those times you wanted to drive your car off the cliff, those lonely nights, the difficult phone calls are the times that develop the deeper character in you.

Who or what inspires you?

To be honest right now, and this not to sound deep or anything, but I listen to a lot of preaching and teaching. I listen to Tony Evans, Charles Stanley, David Jeremiah, Chuck Swindoll, Jonathan McArthur…these cats inspire me with a little meat on the bones. When it comes to music, I listen to music to unwind and relax. I listen to Coldplay, David Crowder Band, Yo Yo Ma, Fugees, James Brown, Michael Jackson and the edited version of Jay-Z. Even though I don’t agree with his lyrical content, I think he’s a great talent the same way I appreciate Denzel in “Training Day.” I don’t agree with the character, but I can identify that he’s a talented actor. Because I travel a lot and I don’t get to church often, I try to keep myself fed. We live in a world that takes away so much from that.  It’s very important to stay fed.

What do you want people to take away from “The Blueprint”?

I want them to feel like Kirk Franklin came over to the crib and we sat for hours and talked about marriage, family, sex and dating. I want it to feel like a friend stopped by and was hard on me, but still showed me love and dropped some jewels that I needed in my life.

To hear the complete audio of this interview click on this link: http://churchbeatradio.com/wpmu/blog/2010/05/15/exclusive-kirk-franklin-interview/

TO DOWNLOAD OR NOT TO DOWNLOAD??? JAMES FORTUNE & FIYA RELEASE “ENCORE”

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James Fortune is the new “IT” guy in Gospel and he should soak it ALLLLLL up! I would say it’s well deserved after giving the world the record breaking, tear jerking, inspirational song of ’09 “I Trust You.” James Fortune is fitting in just fine with the absence of Kirk Franklin. He’s filling the void flawlessly!

J.F. & Fiya release their third CD “Encore” with baited anticipation and it lives up to all the hype. The album opens full force with high energy on the track “It Was You” and keeps the momentum going from there with songs like “The Greatest” featuring Kierra Sheard, “You Are Here,” “Bounce Back” and “You’ve Been” featuring production and vocals by J. Drew Sheard and again by Kierra Sheard. The Sheard clan got a lot of love on this album!

“Encore” continues to ride with a settling pace as it slows down just a bit with songs like “Holy Is Our God,” and “Draw Me.” The CD keeps you tastefully satisfied as the production gives you a back and forth feel from groove to worship song…back and forth until the very end. Very well done!

I only have two small critiques with this CD. The first is the title track “Encore” felt a little formulaic to me in a repetitive way. It seemed as if he was trying to recreate the same magic he did with “I Trust You” and it fell a little flat for me. Lastly, I felt the album could’ve been just a little shorter. I would have been good with 13 tracks!

What differentiates Fortune & Fiya from his male counterparts and their ensembles is that the up-tempo songs on this project are arguably better than the slower songs or are just as good, which is a very rare occurrence on most projects. Usually the fast songs are lackluster and the slow songs are the pretty ones that everyone gravitates to! That shows James can do both exceptionally well and not every artist/group can do that. So James Fortune’s “Encore” gets not one CRICKET from me! (who woulda thought???) Way to go Fortune! (lol) Definitely go get this CD. It’s one you will want to add to your iPod rotation!

http://www.myspace.com/jamesfortunefiya

KeKe Wyatt

KeKe Wyatt

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Unfortunately this story has a familiar tone that is becoming all too common among many women whose names we know and some we don’t. From the outside Keke Wyatt had the life many girls dream of. She had the husband, the kids, a gold selling debut CD, top 10 singles, videos in heavy rotation and all the promise in the world. But behind closed doors she was being brutally beaten, emotionally taunted and controlled by the man she loved the most, the father of her children, the man to whom she said “I do.”

The media frenzy dubbed the R&B songstress as crazy and unstable, but in reality she was just trying to stay alive.

Now at 28, with a brand new CD and new outlook on life, Keke Wyatt shares her testimony and words of wisdom through God’s protection and grace of how she came out alive after enduring a 10 year long abusive relationship.

You released your first album when you were a teenager and now you’re 28. Did you ever get discouraged and want to give up on singing?

I did get discouraged. It got to the point where I was just like forget it. I was already a mom, so I was just going to find another career path. I had two deals that fell through; one with Cash Money Records and TVT Records.

Since you didn’t have an album out and you weren’t in the public eye, what were you doing?

Well I was around. I don’t know why people didn’t see me. I guess if you’re not Kanye West or someone like that, then people feel like your career is over. But I released two singles and a video, “Ghetto Rose” and “Put Your Hands On Me,” which did very well at radio and on iTunes.  And I never stopped working. I toured constantly overseas in Europe, Korea and Japan. I also did a play, some modeling and I’m a writer, so I was getting royalty checks. But over here in the States, as far as recording was concerned, I was kind of over it. I said if it’s meant to be, it will be. My previous albums never materialized because it wasn’t supposed to happen back then.

Keke you were put in jail for stabbing your husband.  Was that an isolated incident or were you in an abusive relationship?

I was in an abusive relationship with my husband for 10 years and I’m finally going through a divorce right now.

Tell me about the stabbing incident.

It’s really simple, I was defending myself. The media made me out to be some crazy woman who stabbed her husband with a butcher knife. If I did that he would be dead. I stabbed him with a peeling knife. If anyone knows what a peeling knife is, the handle is bigger than the blade. I couldn’t have hurt him with that if I tried too. He had both hands around my throat, choking me. I had to pick up something to get him off of me so I could breathe. I was the victim and the public made me out to be the bad person, like I did something wrong. People were so judgmental when they had no idea of what happened. Instead of reaching out to me, making sure I was ok and finding out the truth, they reported lies.

Why did you stay so long?

I stayed because I had kids and I thought that’s what I was supposed to do. I grew up in a Christian home and I was always taught to do whatever you can to hold on to your family and don’t let nothing or nobody get in the way of family. I realized if he really loved me he could never hurt me like this. And no excuse like alcohol or drugs is a defense to brutally beating me. I don’t care how drunk or high you are, it gives you no right to pick me up and slam me on the ground in the front yard or lock me in the house and take my phone away, so I can’t call for help. People just don’t understand. He controlled me. I was mentally, physically and emotionally tortured for 10 years!

Did you ever get mad with God for being in a marriage like this?

No because I knew better, so I never blamed God. I did ask why is this happening to me? I believe at the end of every storm there is a rainbow. I feel like I went through this to become the woman that I am today. If you don’t go through something, then how can you help somebody else? I hate that this was my story, but I believe I’m here to help someone before it’s too late for them. I lost my best friend to domestic violence and I was determined for that not to be my story.

How bad did the abuse get?

I’ve been used, abused, lied to, kicked, choked, slammed up against walls, punched in the face, anything you can think of I’ve experienced. A week before my video shoot for my new single “Who Knew” my husband beat me up and I had bruises all over my body. They covered all the bruises up with makeup and that’s why I’m wearing long sleeves in most of the video. I asked him why would he do this to me when he knew I had a video shoot coming up? He told me I shouldn’t be so light! I couldn’t believe he said that to me!

What was the final incident that made you leave him?

The final straw was when I looked up 2 months ago and found myself outside in the middle of the night, in my night gown, with my 1 year old in my arms, screaming for help with a bloody mouth. I was yelling at him saying, “Baby this is me. This is KeKe…THIS IS KEKE. Have you forgotten who I am?” After that I was done and gave it all to God. When we went to court, the judge said if I didn’t leave my husband and get a restraining order against him, he would make sure my 3 children would be taken away from me. I love my kids more than life itself, so I know that was God just tapping me and saying enough! The sad thing is, I can’t honestly say I wouldn’t have taken him back if he had apologized to me. But that’s how much control he had over me.

Looking back, do you see signs that you ignored in the beginning?

YES! I was ordered to go to a battered women’s group for domestic violence and they have this pyramid that tells you the different things men do when they are being controlling or abusive. It’s funny because a woman can be abused without ever being touched. I was being controlled and I didn’t even know it. He was controlling my life. He would schedule gigs for me that I didn’t even know about. Everything was his…his house, his car, his things. But every check that came in the house had my name on it. It always starts with them jumping up in your face, gritting their teeth, pushing you in the forehead with their finger and poking you in the face. Then it just escalates from there.

If you had the chance to give advice to the Keke back then, what would you tell her?

GET OUT! If she thinks it’s going to get better, it’s not! No matter how many times he cries or brings flowers and chocolates, don’t believe him. It doesn’t matter that you have children or people around you telling you to stay. They don’t have to live with the pain and the beatings, so think about you and your children and LEAVE!

How important has your relationship with Christ been through this 10 year nightmare?

I am so happy and grateful I have Christ in my life. He is number one! I can’t tell you where I’d be. A lot of people in my situation would have turned to drugs, alcohol or suicide, but I just gave it all to God.

You’ve just released your sophomore CD “Who Knew.” Tell me about it.

I’m so excited. The CD has been selling really well and it’s the #2 downloaded CD on iTunes. The response to the new single and video have all been positive, so I’m really happy. I’m also going on tour with Fantasia and Rickey Smiley, so I’m excited about that too.

Will you ever record a Gospel CD?

Oh definitely. I love The Clark Sisters, John P. Kee and James Moore. I’m an old school girl! But I do love Kim Burrell and some of Kirk Franklin’s music. But you could be hearing a Gospel CD from me sooner than later. I know God has put an anointing on my voice and no matter if I’m singing about love or God, I know God has given me this voice to inspire people.

What do you want the public to know about you?

I want people to know that I’m not some crazy female who tried to kill her husband. I’m a good mother and a good person who just happened to end up with a crazy idiot. Whatever the public’s perception of me is, it’s not true. I’m in a much better place now! I’m happy to be alive and I want my story to save someone else! In spite of everything God has been so good to me and I know he has even bigger things in store for me!

Check out “Peace On Earth” by Keke Wyatt playing on Da Truth Tunes!

KEKE WYATT’S 20 RANDOM TRUTHS

  1. Favorite animated movie? “Lion King.”
  2. Favorite Michael Jackson song? “Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough.”
  3. The Cosby Show, Marin, A Different World or Fresh Prince of Bel Air? “The Cosby Show.”
  4. Male artist you would like to do a duet with? Joe.
  5. Can you change a tire? I’m scared. I’ve never tried.
  6. Messy or clean? Super duper clean! Like ignorant with it! (lol)
  7. SWV, Brownstone, TLC or Xscape? SWV.
  8. Worst subject in high school? Social Studies.
  9. Favorite Restaurant? “Le Petit Four” in Los Angeles.
  10. One quality you look for in a man? Honesty.

GONE SOLO…WERE YOU THINKING THIS TOO??

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  1. Was it the plan for Lowell Pye and Isaac Carree of Men of Standard to release solo albums around the same time? I wonder who will get more play??
  2. When Joann Rosario went solo after singing with Fred Hammond that turned out to be a good look! But why didn’t it work for Shea Norman??
  3. Remember when Keith Staten left Commissioned to do his solo thing?? It worked for a split second, but nothing like it did for Fred or Marvin!!
  4. Who knew Monique Walker, Hezekiah Walker’s ex and former lead vocalist of the Love Fellowship Crusade Choir would get CRICKETS??
  5. It looks like Kirk Franklin’s former singers have done pretty well for themselves on their own; Tamela Mann, David Mann, Anthony Evans and Myron Butler. Will it work for Nikki Ross??
  6. When CeCe Winans recorded her first solo project that was the best decision, as far as her career is concerned!!
  7. I give Zacardi Cortez of James Fortune & Fiya maybe one more album with them before he goes solol!
  8. One of the girls from J. Moss’ group Ramiyah is supposedly working on a solo album. Does anyone care?
  9. Aren’t you ready for Lisa Page Brooks to get back to Witness?!?
  10. So which member of 21:03 do you think is going to put out a solo album first?

THE STELLAR AWARDS WEEKEND RECAP PT. 2 & THE LIST OF ALL THE WINNERS!

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I’m going to pick up right where I left off…so let’s go

Friday, January 15th,  around 9pm Bonnerfide Radio Launch Party

I would say one of the most talked about, eagerly anticipated events during the weekend was definitely Gerard Bonners’ “Bonnerfide Radio Launch Party” hosted by my boy Jawn Murray. Gerard just recently started an interactive internet radio show that has become relatively successful in a short amount of time. So much so, that his radio show was nominated for a 2010 Stellar Award for Internet Radio Station of the Year. He did not win, but I know he was excited that he was even recognized. Gerard is a good guy that has embraced me and I wish him nothing but the best. Now that I’m done with those pleasantries, let’s get to the stuff I like.

I knew I had to be on point because it was going to be a GANG of “celebs” in the house and it lived up to the talk! By the way I think I looked rather dapper, if I do say so myself! (lol and I do) Check Da Gospel Truth Facebook fan page for all the pictures!

The line-up was rather long which indicated to me that the show was going to be long and I was right! With that said, the list of performers definitely made me want to stay around. Half of the artists I had heard of before, the other half were all brand new to me. Here’s who was performing so you can get an idea; Sheri Jones Moffett, George Huff, CMO, Melinda Watts, Karima, Candy & Peaches West, PJ Morton, Lisa Page Brooks, Jonathan & Jason Nelson, San Franklin, Adrianne Archie, Rae Ellis, Claude Deuce, JJ Hairston, Tre Thomas, Dominique Side and more and more! You get the idea right…it was a lot of singing! (lol) Overall I enjoyed most of the performances that I can remember. It’s all a bit of a blur now. It was also good to see my man Torrence Glenn of BET getting his direct on with the BRC Choir! There were a couple artists that got CRICKETS from the audience who will remain nameless. But I will say this, the Gospel audience is a HARDDDDDDDDDD crowd to move. To get a reaction you basically need to do a back flip, while holding the mic, singing on key, juggling fire, with no pants on and you MAY get a handclap!! LOL I’m dead serious! But almost 5 hours later the show came to a successful end with nothing but smiles and kudos!

The turnout was absolutely great! Beyonce’s daddy Matthew Knowles was in the building!! Ok I’m going to say that again, BEYONCE’S DADDY MATTHEW KNOWLES was in the building!! THAT’S MAJOR!

One of the funniest moments that no one knew about but me, was when Jawn Murray came up to me and asked what is the name of this artist new CD and what’s her single that’s out?!?! They really didn’t give him much information to go off of about the artists. But Jawn basically gave this artist CRICKETS because he didn’t know anything about her! AAAAAWWWW I felt kind of bad but if I said the name you would ALL know who it was!!

Make sure you check out Bonnerfide Radio everyday from 9am-12pm EST at www.getbonnerfide.com

Saturday, January 16th, 11:00am Radio Station of the Year Awards Ceremony

I was still tired from the night before, so I really wasn’t pressed to get to this event. But I needed to meet someone at this event to pickup my ticket for the Stellar Awards so I had to go and I’m glad I did.

We got there a little late, but I really didn’t care about the awards they were passing out. I just wanted to see the performances. So I’ll tell you about those and keep this portion of my day pushing!

Wife of R&B/Neo-Soul singer Anthony Hamilton, Tarsha Hamilton performed two songs which I thoroughly enjoyed. She looked beautiful and she sounded even better. I definitely need to get my hands on her CD! And thanks to my lovely friend Veda Brown, I had a front row seat!

Next up was everyone’s favorite comedic actress/Gospel singer Mrs. Tamela Mann. All I know is that lately every time I see Tamela perform, whether it be on TV or at an event, she looks like MONEY!! I’ve worked in TV for many years, so I know the Mann’s are making some nice change! Tamela sang the title track to her new album “The Master Plan” and wore us out! Enough said!

Lastly there was a group of ladies that I just had to stay and hear. I told my friends we could not leave until I heard them because previously many months ago I gave them CRICKETS! The Nevels Sisters were up! I can admit when I’m wrong and I will be writing a retraction on what I said VERY soon! I’ll just say hair and vocals. Hair and vocals! Oh yeah hair, vocals and energy in that order!! (lol) They were outstanding! LITERALLY they were the highlight of the whole show. They were so good, after they walked offstage, they brought them back out for an encore!! So CRICKETS to me!

Saturday January 16th, 5pm The Stellar Awards

The purpose of the whole weekend was actually here, The Stellar Awards! I worked the red carpet, but almost missed it because I accidentally set my ticket down to the actual award show and didn’t notice until we were half way back to the hotel to change. So we had to turn around and go back. Luckily I found it and the crisis was averted!

The red carpet was cool. Nothing all that exciting to talk about, so I’ll keep it moving.

It was the Stellar Awards 25th Anniversary and the theme of the show was “Collaborations.” It was a nice idea. Since I really don’t feel like typing out EVERY detail of the taping, I’m going to give you quick hits! Watch the show to get the full effect! Am I being lazy?? LOL

  • Show was hosted by Donnie, Vickie and Kirk. Vickie was hilarious!
  • The show opened with Ricky Dillard & New Generation and Hezekiah Walker & LFC. GREAT way to open the show with two of the top choirs in the industry sharing the stage.
  • Vanessa Bell Armstrong came out and the audience gasped at how AMAZING she looked! I don’t even know if anyone paid attention to her singing her single “Good News” because she looked that good!
  • Tramaine Hawkins, Dottie Peoples and Shirley Caesar on stage together! Nothing else needs to be said…except that Tramaine sounded like she was still in her teens. She sounded incredible! She’s my all time favorite!
  • Richard Smallwood and Smokie Norful created a beautiful and classy moment grand piano to grand piano.
  • Crystal Aikin gave my favorite performance of the night! I was taken aback at how beautiful she looked and sounded.
  • Bebe & Cece sang “Grace.” Thank God it didn’t slow the shows momentum down. It was cool.
  • Kirk Franklin and some of the Family and some of his new singers did a medley that was too short! He just has too many timeless hits!
  • James Fortune & Fiya performed his hit “I Trust You.” Everybody just loves that song.
  • Donnie McClurkin, Marvin Sapp and Byron Cage sent that room into a praise frenzy! It was definitely the highlight of the evening! THEY SANG!
  • Kirk Franklin came out and gave us a sermonette.
  • Israel Houghton did a creative video performance with Mary Mary of their duet “Every Prayer.” My favorite song on the CD.
  • Donald Lawrence & Co. and the winning choir of “Verizon’s How Sweet the Sound Choir” contest Atlanta West Pentecostal Church Choir closed the evening out with the infectious “Back II Eden.” P.S. There was a member of that choir that was going INNNNNN!! LOL Hit up Neily Dickerson to see the footage! LOL

Well folks that’s it! There you have it! My first Stellar weekend ever! I had a great time. Let me know what you think of Pt. 1 and Pt. 2 of my recap?!? Did you feel like you were there with me??? I hope so!

For Part 1. go to www.dagospeltruth.com/?p=1655

Artist Of The Year – Hezekiah Walker & Love Fellowship Choir, Souled Out (Verity)

Song Of The Year – “God In Me” by Mary Mary, The Sound (Columbia)

Male Vocalist Of The Year – Smokie Norful, Smokie Norful Live (EMI Gospel)

Female Vocalist Of The Year – Vickie Winans, How I Got Over (Destiny Joy)

Group/Duo Of The Year – Mary Mary, The Sound (Columbia)

New Artist Of The Year – Crystal Aikin, Crystal Aikin (Verity)

CD Of The Year – Hezekiah Walker & Love Fellowship Choir, Souled Out (Verity)

Choir Of The Year – Hezekiah Walker & Love Fellowship Choir, Souled Out (Verity)

Producer Of The Year – Donald Lawrence & Daniel Weatherspoon, The Law Of Confession Pt. 1 (Quietwater/Verity)

Contemporary Group/Duo Of The Year – Mary Mary, The Sound (Columbia)

Traditional Group/Duo Of The Year – Lee Williams & The Spiritual QCs, Fall On Me (MCG)

Contemporary Male Vocalist Of The Year – Smokie Norful, Smokie Norful Live (EMI Gospel)

Contemporary Female Vocalist Of The Year – Crystal Aikin, Crystal Aikin (Verity)

Traditional Male Vocalist Of The Year – Donnie McClurkin, We All Are One (Verity)

Traditional Female Vocalist Of The Year – Dottie Peoples, Do It! (DP Muzik Group)

Contemporary CD Of The Year – Hezekiah Walker & Love Fellowship Choir, Souled Out (Verity)

Traditional CD Of The Year – Shari Addison, Shari Addison (Verity)

Urban/Inspirational Single Of The Year – “God In Me” by Mary Mary, The Sound (Columbia)

Music Video Of The Year – “How I Got Over” by Vickie Winans, How I Got Over (Destiny Joy)

Contemporary Choir Of The Year – Hezekiah Walker & Love Fellowship Choir, Souled Out (Verity)

Traditional Choir Of The Year – Bishop Paul S. Morton & The FGBCF Mass Choir, Cry Your Last Year (Light)

Special Event CD Of The Year – The Clark Sisters, J. Moss & Kierra Sheard, Silky Soul Music – A Tribute To Maze (Barantera Music Group)

Instrumental CD Of The Year – Ben Tankard, Mercy, Mercy, Mercy (Verity)

Rap/Hip-Hop Gospel CD Of The Year – Da’ T.R.U.T.H., The Big Picture (Cross Movement)

Children’s Performance Of The Year – Rev. Dr. Emory Andrews & Oxon Hill High School Choir, Amazing (Yrome)

Quartet Of The Year – Lee Williams & The Spiritual QCs, Fall On Me (MCG)

Praise & Worship CD Of The Year – Stephen Hurd, Times Of Refreshing (Integrity)

Recorded Music Package Of The Year – Denise Trotman for Donald Lawrence’s The Law Of Confession Pt. 1 (Quietwater/Verity)

UPDATE: HAITI EXPERIENCES A CATASTROPHIC EARTHQUAKE & BRINGS THE GOSPEL INDUSTRY TOGETHER TO RECORD “ARE YOU LISTENING: A LOVE SONG FOR HAITI”

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Kirk Franklin’s “Are You Listening: A Love Song for Haiti” One Hour Special Presentation World Premieres Friday, January 22nd at 7pm ET on the Gospel Music Channel.

The whole world has watched unabatedly as new details are released about the devastating earthquake in the capital of Haiti, Port-au-Prince. On January 12, Tuesday afternoon, the Caribbean city was rocked to the core when an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.0 shook the already impoverished city and all but destroyed the ground the Haitian residences walked on. The numbered of injured and dead people are staggering. The numbers will definitely go up day by day as rescuers and volunteers make their way through all the demolished buildings and debris.

This week the Gospel industry came together to celebrate the 25th Annual Stellar Awards with many special events, launch parties and celebrations to honor the many people and artists who have worked tirelessly all year. Regardless of who was singing or what award was being passed out, it was painfully evident that EVERYONE’S mind was on the many displaced residents in Haiti.

During the “invitation only” BMI luncheon, Kirk Franklin made a heartfelt speech and announced all of the Gospel artists in town were coming together to record “Are You Listening: A Love Song for Haiti” where every single dollar would go to the rescue efforts in Haiti. From Kirk’s description the recording was going to be very reminiscent of 1985’s international charity single for Africa “We Are the World.” I’m very proud of how everyone came together and I can’t wait to hear what they came up with. With Kirk producing and writing this soon to be released single, I’m sure it will be nothing short of stellar. I will keep you updated on when the single will hit the airwaves and when it will be available on iTunes for purchase.

We need to continue to pray for those who suffered in this terrible tragedy and get involved any way we can! Every little bit counts!