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WARRYN CAMPBELL OF THE SOUL SEEKERS

WARRYN CAMPBELL OF THE SOUL SEEKERS

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The Soul Seekers are the epitome of a super group when you look at the makeup of the group, which consists of some of the most successful and sought after musicians, singers, producers and songwriters in the business today. If you put all 8 member’s resumes on one page you’d realized they’ve worked with almost everybody whose anybody in the music game.

It’s no surprise that The Soul Seekers newest single “It’s All God ft. Marvin Winans” is one of the most popular songs in Gospel released in the last few months. So with all the anticipation of their sophomore project, I sat down with member and hit making producer Warryn “Baby Dub” Campbell to talk about what else besides the Soul Seekers, making hits and his biggest claim to fame, Mary Mary!

(The Soul Seekers are: Warryn Campbell, Nisan Stewart, Gerald Haddon, John “Jubu” Smith, Charlie Bereal, Craig Brockman, Teddy Campbell & Eric Seats)

What do the Soul Seekers bring to the music game that is different?

One is the fact that we do quartet music and we’re very young. There are not a lot of young brothers doing quartet music. It’s generally an older genre. The significance is this is not something we’re doing for fun. It’s ministry for us. Everyone in the Soul Seekers has their own career as musicians, producers and songwriters. We have don’t have to do this, but we’re commissioned and called to do it, which is a big difference. We’re less susceptible to different things since we’re not in it for the money. We’ll go anywhere even if it’s for free, because it’s ministry.

Whose idea was for you all guys to come together and form The Soul Seekers?

Ten years ago there was a concert that Nisan Stewart was having at his father’s church one night where he’s the assistant pastor.  It was called “Take Me Back” night. At the concert he had a group of girls singing Clark Sisters’ songs, a group of guys doing Commissioned songs, a choir doing Milton Brunson tunes and one doing Walter Hawkins tunes and he said, “the only thing we’re missing is the quartet thing”.  All of us grew up on quartet singing and he said, “We should do the quartet thing”. And that’s what happened. God really came in and blessed. It was amazing. From that day on, we were asked to sing here or there and it never stopped. The year after that, we recorded our album “The Original Soul Seekers.”

There are eight guys and everyone is pretty successful in what their doing. How do you guys coordinate everyone’s hectic schedules?

Well, it’s not easy. Sometimes it doesn’t work. Sometimes we have to pass on requests because our lead singer is the drummer on The Tonight Show. Monday thru Friday 1 – 5, he’s at NBC Studios and I’m busy as well. But it seems like as busy as I am, I’m the only one who can make everything! LOL! I’m always available.  We always have two or three guys who can’t make it, so it takes a lot to make it work. If you see all eight of us and we’re not in California, it took some doing!

Does it ever get frustrating?

It does. A few times we were on the verge of saying “we’re not doing this anymore”. Then all eight of us would get together and do a show somewhere and say, “man, we can’t stop”. The way the move of God happens when all eight of us are on stage is incredible. It’s not us. So, we have to make more sacrifices to get out there. With this new album coming out, we’re going everywhere. We’re going to take three months and just tour the country. We’ve never been down south and we have to go down south with the quartet sound. We’ve been all through California and the East Coast, even the Midwest, but the south is where we want to be. We’ve even been to Amsterdam.

How is this new project different from the first?

There are different twists and turns here and there. We definitely have a bigger sound now. On the last album we didn’t have the horn section. This time we do, plus steel guitar players and percussion. We have Marvin Winans singing with us on the record too. And to my surprise we had a much bigger audience at the recording this time. I looked up and everybody was there. From Coko, MusiqSoulchild, Dr. Bobby Jones to Tye Tribbett, Fred Hammond and Rodney Jerkins.  I said to myself, “I didn’t invite these people.” LOL! They just love us and showed up. I was so grateful. We had a great time. We have a DVD that will come out at the same time the album does. Also, the DVD from our first recording that nobody ever saw is going to be on there as well.

When will the album be released?

Probably, in October.

The first single “It’s All God” is like a throwback Winans’ song. Was that intentional and who wrote the song?

A good friend of the groups, Harold Lily Jr, wrote that song. I called him and told him we needed a song and the next day that’s the song he played for me. I knew we had to do that song because it was much better than anything we had. We actually had my mentor, Marvin L. Winans, on another song, but when I heard “It’s All God,” I knew he had to be on this particular song. It came out amazing and so far people are really responding to it.

As a producer known for making hits, can you tell when a song is a hit?

Well, yeah. I can tell by how I feel. Take Mary Mary’s “God In Me” for instance.  I really, really, really like that song a lot.  Before it was a song, it was just a track that I did at home. I listened to it all day, every day.  Then when we did the song and I couldn’t stop playing it. You should get that intangible thing that makes you “feel” something about a song and it should evoke some sort of emotion that overwhelms you. If you don’t respond that way, who else will?

What is it about your chemistry with Erica and Tina that has resonated so well throughout the years?

I’m trying to figure out what the chemistry is. We’re in the studio as we speak. I can’t really explain it. Sometimes we’ll be four hours in and have written seven songs. Other times we get out what we call the “wack juice.” We just keep writing to get through whatever that phase is to get to the good stuff.

Have there been songs that you’ve done that you liked that everyone else wasn’t feeling?

Absolutely. I like most of my songs, but the gospel songs are different. With the gospel songs, I know which ones are hits. With R&B, I’m more detached because I send them in and they do whatever they’re going to do with them, especially when it comes to rap. Like I could do a record with Kanye and I won’t know if it makes the album or not. My heart has to be in it for me to love a record.  Most of the time I make records for other people. But with gospel music, the songs start from a sentiment I feel and it’s much more personal.

Do you remember what your first hit was?

It was a song called “When I Close My Eyes” by Shanice.  I was 20 years old.

What is your biggest insecurity as a producer or do you have one?

If I have one, I don’t know what it is. I’m extremely confident in the gifts God has given me. I don’t doubt God. When it comes to producing records and writing songs, I don’t do any of it. God writes the songs and I take dictation. I don’t show up at the studio trying to come up with something. I don’t place restrictions on myself, even when other people do.  When I have an idea I just go with it.

How do you deal with the backlash of doing Gospel and secular music?

You have to be yourself.  You will only be successful being yourself, especially when it comes to God’s work.  He called me to do what I do.  I came into this knowing that.  If I didn’t come into this knowing who I was, people would tear me down.  I’d be weak. I’d allow people’s opinions to sway me.  I was commissioned to do this by my father and my pastor. I was 16 years old at the time.  When I told him I was never going to do secular music he sat me down and said, “You have to treat music as your occupation and you have to separate your occupation from your salvation. Be a light when you do your music”.

WARRYN’S 20 RANDOM TRUTHS

  1. Are you afraid of heights? No.
  2. Favorite holiday? Thanksgiving.
  3. Favorite Mary Mary song? “I Got It.”
  4. Favorite TV show? “Entourage.”
  5. Favorite bible story? I Samuel 21:10-15

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/

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.

BISHOP WALTER HAWKINS DIES AT 61 (UPDATE ON FUNERAL & MUSICAL CELEBRATION)

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As this terrible news continues to send shockwaves through the Gospel industry, I’m deeply saddened to report that Bishop Walter Hawkins passed today July 11, 2010 at the age of 61.  Bishop Hawkins had been battling pancreatic cancer for some time, but was said to be in good health and even returned to most of his pastoral duties.

Walter Hawkins was a pioneer and a Gospel legend, not only in Contemporary Gospel music, but also in music history as a whole.  Gospel music wouldn’t be what it is today without the last name “Hawkins” attached to its historic legacy.  Walter’s timeless melodies and brilliantly crafted lyrics are still some of the most re-recorded and re-produced songs today from some of the Gospel industries biggest names. Hits like “Be Grateful,” “Thank You,” “What Is This,” “Change,” “Dear Jesus,” and “Marvelous,” reiterate just what a prolific songwriter/artist he was.

Bishop Hawkins also split his time between being a highly sought after artist and Pastor of The Love Center Church in Oakland, CA.

Walter Hawkins leaves behind two children, Jamie and Trystan Hawkins from his first marriage to Gospel legend Tramaine Hawkins, along with siblings Edwin, Carol, Freddie, Daniel and Lynette.

On a personal note, this is a sad day for me as The Hawkins dynasty was one of my first introductions to Gospel music that my mother exposed me too.  The Hawkins family is one of the main reasons why my love for Gospel music is so strong today. Bishop Hawkins you will be missed, but we thank God for the assurance that this is not the last place we’ll see you.

Musical

Tuesday – July 20, 2010 @ 7:30 P.M.

The Tuesday Night Musical Celebration, titled, “The Man, the Music, The Ministry: A Musical Salute to Bishop Walter Hawkins” will be Yolanda Adams, Mary Mary, Pastor Donnie McClurkn, Daryl Coley, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Ledisi, Ted Winn, Kim Burrell, Byron Cage, Karen Clark Sheard, DJ Rogers, Melvin & Doug Williams, The Love Center Choir and more. Lady Tramaine Hawkins will be make a special appearance along with Bishop Hawkin’s sister, Lynette Hawkins Stevens. The musical directors will be Edwin Hawkins, Donald Lawrence, Kurt Carr, Richard Smallwood, and Bishop’s own musical director Rusty Watson.  The master of ceremony duties will be shared between Dr. Bobby Jones, Marvin Winans, and BeBe Winans.

The Walter Hawkins musical Tribute will air Sunday on the G.M.C July 25 at 8:00 p.m. ET, 5:00 p.m. PT.

Homegoing Celebration

Wednesday – July 21, 2010 @ 11 A.M.

Everyone is requested to wear the color “CREAM”

Services will be held at:

Paramount Theatre

2025 Broadway

Oakland, CA 94612-2303

(510) 465-6400

Hotel Information:

Hilton Oakland Airport

1 Hegenberger Road

Oakland, CA 94621

(510) 635-5000

$85.00 a night, plus tax

For more info on the services and arrangements go to www.lovecenter.org.

Karima Kibble

Karima Kibble

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You may recognize Karima Kibble as the lead vocalist of one the widely popular female trios in Gospel music, Virtue.

Last year Karima made the bold move of stepping out front and center when she released her highly- anticipated solo debut “Just Karima.” After sitting down with Kibble, the decision that was so obvious to many was not so apparent to her.  It wasn’t until she completely trusted God and his plan that she realized she was now doing what he intended all along.

Why did you decide to go solo?

Well people had been telling me for years that I should go solo. I was like, “Go somewhere with that!” When Virtue decided to take a break I needed something to do. Ebony and Heather are teachers so they had another career to concentrate on. I knew I needed something for me and God gave me the opportunity to start writing my own music. So I had written all these songs and was like, “Now, what am I going to do with them?” To say I was going solo without a record deal was kind of crazy, but I wasn’t thinking that far in advance. I was able to do 18 songs in 3 months, so I had to figure out what the next step was. It was evident I was supposed to be doing what I was doing because He gave me the music and I didn’t think I could write. I had never written in that capacity before. I was very fearful in finally admitting that I was going to go solo. I had to let go of all the fear to allow God to pour into me. I think I was always meant to go solo. I just didn’t think I could until I started trusting God completely and allowing Him to use me. I did this project for no money. Every track on my CD was given to me for free. God allowed friends to pour into my ministry.

Your husband, Joey Kibble, is a member of the critically acclaimed, Grammy winning group, Take 6. Couldn’t you have paid for your project yourself?

Money is fleeting in this industry. You can work one day and then not work again for months. In my case I was blessed. I didn’t have the money, but turns out I didn’t need it.

How do you handle an audience that is not responsive to your music ministry?

Sometimes you have to just minister to yourself. I’ve been in two concerts where another artist has been on stage and the reaction of the audience was cold. Of course I’m up supporting because I understand. You want people to like what you do, but at the same time, I’m doing it even if one person gets it. One thing Virtue always said was that if we minister to one or two people out of a thousand, our job is complete. And sometimes it is hard. You think maybe I wasn’t good enough, but you have to know you’re there for a purpose.

Do you think the Gospel audience is hard to please?

I’m singing from my heart and so you have to feel it because it’s real. There are those audiences that feel like if she didn’t do that run like so and so then she can’t sing. I can do all those runs, but honestly that’s not me. It doesn’t make me less of singer or a worshipper because I don’t do runs all the time. One thing I’ve developed being in this industry is tough skin. If you don’t have it you will break. What God gave me is for me and that also falls under “Just Karima.”

Why was Virtue able to stay together so long?

Virtue isn’t over! We are definitely going to be recording another CD. I think Virtue has done well because we’re real. A lot of artists aren’t transparent enough for people to really connect to them. And then you have to be on the same page. We’re blood sisters and if that doesn’t stand for something, I don’t know what will. We have had member changes, but it was nothing like what people thought. Shavonne left because she wanted to be a mommy. And Negelle wanted to pursue what she had studied in college. Years ago we had asked my baby sister, Heather, to be in the group and she said no thank you! She wanted to be a teacher and that was it. When Negelle decided to leave, Heather said God had been tugging at her to join and that’s what happened.

Why did Virtue leave Verity?

We asked to be released from our contract. We were with Verity for 10 years and we had both come to the end of the road. Everything must come to an end. When we asked to be let go they said ok and that was it. No more than a few weeks later Fred Jerkins contacted us and asked us to sign with Darkchild.

Why didn’t the album with Darkchild do so well?

We signed a one-album deal with them. “Testimony” was a great CD, but all the components weren’t there. Being independent was a new venture for everyone involved. But we love Freddie. There are no hard feelings. He is like our brother.

Why do you feel Virtue never crossed over like Mary Mary or Trin-i-tee 5:7 did?

We just never had the right components or people that believed in us enough. That’s it plainly stated. We still look back and listen to our CD’s and say the image was there, the sound was there, but we just didn’t have the push. If you have a big push for your project, that’s all you need. You don’t even have to have the greatest sounding voice. If you have the support behind you, anybody can be successful. Virtue never had that. And that’s not a slam against anyone, we just needed something extra.

How do you deal with critiques?

Constructive criticism I absolutely welcome. Everyone should want to be better. And it’s not about someone slamming you. I think you automatically know when something is meant from a good place or if they’re just hating.

Do you feel there is a support system in the gospel industry?

I don’t feel that way at all! I don’t believe we care and support each other the way we should in helping each other get to the next level the way we say we will. But that’s one thing I can say for myself and Virtue, we have been consistent in helping people that we can help. We don’t want to see anyone left behind. We always offer advice to new artists or even people in the industry who don’t have a clue of what they’re doing. I’ve heard people say over and over, “Girl when I make it to the top, I’m going to help you.” And then when I call they don’t pick up their phone. I’ve called some of them out too. Each time they apologize, but nothing changes. People say a lot and don’t act on what they say. The only thing I can do is be different. People can do what they want, just don’t lie.

How important is image in the Gospel industry?

For me 200%! (lol) Image is everything because it aligns you for what God wants us to be. We should be healthy and try to be the best we can be to be examples for the next person. I work out 5 days a week. It’s so important to me. It’s also a selling point…she sounds good, looks good and she’s healthy. How can that be wrong?

When can we expect a new Virtue album?

I can’t give you a date, but we are going to start writing very soon. Ebony and Heather are very patient because they have put their things aside to help me pursue my dream.

KARIMA’S 10 RANDOM TRUTHS

  1. Favorite Virtue CD? “Free”
  2. Guilty pleasure? Shopping.
  3. On time or late for church? Usually late.
  4. Favorite R&B female singer? Brandy.
  5. Favorite fast food? “Chipotle”
  6. Favorite Take 6 CD? “Join The Band”
  7. Joe, Tank, Maxwell or Jamie Foxx? Maxwell.
  8. Favorite American idol? Carrie Underwood
  9. First car? Ford Explorer
  10. Favorite Whitney Houston song? “Saving All My Love For You”

(UPDATE) MARY MARY RELEASES BOOK “BE U” WIN YOUR OWN COPY!!

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The ladies of Mary Mary have just been poppin out new goodies all over the place. First Tina (the red Mary) delivers a new baby boy a couple months ago, now the new book and Erica (the not red Mary) is set to pop any day now!

Their new book “Be U”, released on April 6th, is another attempt for the two sisters to reach the world with not only their voices, but now with their words in print. I think it’s a phenomenal idea growing an even more successful empire, all with Jesus at the helm. “In the new inspirational book…they encourage young women to discover the true beauty that lies within and empower themselves. Be Honest. Be Beautiful. Be Intentional. Be Strong. Be You!”

If you have not had a chance to check out my brand new internet radio show, I encourage you to do so! I will be giving away copies of “Be U” from the radio show and here at Da Gospel Truth. This contest will run for 4 weeks, so come back at the start of each week to see the new question!

So to start the giveaway…

  1. What internet station does my radio show “Real Talk Thursdays with Da Gospel Truth” come on?
  2. Who is Erica Campbell married to? And what is his occupation?
  3. What male R&B artist is featured on the remix to Mary Mary’s single “God In Me”?

E-mail your answers to Gerald@dagospeltruth.com

UPDATE: Congratulations to the winners George Lott & Audrey Perdue!

YOU MAY ONLY ENTER ONCE AND IF YOUR ANSWER IS WRONG YOU CANNOT SUBMIT AGAIN UNTIL THE NEXT NEW QUESTION IS UP! FOR U.S. AND CANADIAN RESIDENTS ONLY!

BET YOU DIDN’T KNOW THIS ABOUT GOSPEL ARTIST VASHAWN MITCHELL?!?!? VASHAWN’S 20 RANDOM TRUTHS

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I’m not a prophet or anything, but I’m predicting this summer is going to be one worth talking about. In June, yours truly, the one you can’t get enough of, the one you love to love (lol) will be 1 year better! Ain’t that just like me making it about me when I’m supposed to be talking about the artist! (lol) I’m a work in a progress!

Another milestone event that will take place this summer is singer/songwriter VaShawn Mitchell is set to release his third offering “Triumphant.” Mitchell has released two solid projects on Tyscot Records and with the buzz about his latest live recording, I’m expecting another standout debut. VaShawn isn’t what some would consider a household name, but I predict if he keeps releasing quality material like he has, it’s only a matter of time before he has a massive hit on his hands!

I like to find out about artists away from the stage…you know after all the hallelujahs and amens are silenced! I thought why not make VaShawn my next victim!  So here are a few things about Vashawn I’m sure you didn’t know!

  1. What movie made you cry? “Precious”
  2. Tyra Banks or Naomi Campbell? Tyra Banks.
  3. Favorite Commissioned song? “Running Back to You.”
  4. Favorite cereal? “Fruit Loops.”
  5. Worst subject in high school? Algebra.
  6. Favorite Bible verse? 1 Thessalonians 4:11 “Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you.”
  7. Bebe & Cece, Mary Mary or Anointed? Mary Mary.
  8. How often do you get a haircut? Once or twice a week.
  9. What kind of toothpaste do you use? “Sensodyne.”
  10. Do you believe in plastic surgery? Yes.
  11. DeWayne Woods, Jonathan Nelson, Myron Butler or James Fortune? Jonathan Nelson.
  12. Favorite TV show? “House.”
  13. Favorite candy bar? “Snickers.”
  14. Least favorite vegetable? Squash.
  15. Mary J. Blige, Faith Evans, Coko or Deborah Cox? Faith Evans.
  16. Mac or PC? Mac.
  17. Would you rather be cold or hot? Hot
  18. One insecurity? My weight.
  19. Can you swim? Yes.
  20. What was your first car? 1977 Green Buick Skylark

For more information on VaShawn Mitchell go to http://www.myspace.com/vmusiq

ONE TO WATCH! NEW ARTIST DAYNA CADDELL

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I had a hunch I needed to keep my eyes on this lady named, Dayna Caddell. And I was right…of course! (lol) I really took notice once I realized she was nominated for a Grammy for co writing my favorite song “Every Prayer” which featured Mary Mary on Israel’s Houghton’s latest release “The Power of One.” Actually that was one of the only songs I liked off that CD. But I digress…ANNYYYYYWAYYY…I’ve been told God willing, there will be a full release from Dayna before 2010 is over. She’s worked with some big names in the lab, so I’m expecting some incredible material. No pressure Dayna!

Dayna is still relatively unknown to the masses, so I wanted everyone to get a glimpse into who she is so you’ll be anticipating her upcoming release like I am!

  1. You were nominated for a Grammy this year. How did the song with Israel come about? Aaron Lindsey and I were in a writing session for my project.  We came up with the basic hook for “Every Prayer,” when Israel and Ricardo Sanchez stopped by the studio.  One thing led to another and we all collaborated on “Every Prayer” and “Power of The Cross” that night.  At the end of our session in the wee hours of the morning, Israel asked if he could put the song on his CD.  I was a bit reluctant at first, but prayed on it and realized it would be a wise decision.  Believe I was correct J.
  2. What are you most nervous about as a new artist? Wow!  Performing in general tends to make me a bit nervous.  There are so many things that go through your mind as a new artist.  Will people get me?  Will they love my music?  Will I sell enough units?  Will I succeed in relaying my message?  The usual I suppose.
  3. Tell me 3 things about yourself that most people don’t know? I’m really funny, a bit goofy!  I’m a partner in an Interior Design firm – Two2tango works Interior Design. I’m a good cook!
  4. What producers did you work with and what is different about you than other female Gospel artists? On my project I worked with Warryn Campbell (whom I’ve dreamt of working with since he worked with Shanice Wilson back in the day), Eric Dawkins, Aaron Lindsey, Vann Clayton, Kenny and Charlie Bereal, and Gromyko Collins (vocal production). I think what’s different about me is that I didn’t come up singing in church.  My father who was in the music business exposed me to a myriad of music as a child and my older sister, who sang, played keys, and is an all around music connoisseur. I’ve been influenced from Rock to R&B.  My music is no doubt faith based!  My mission is to spread the word and love of God.  However it’s more Urban Inspirational than Gospel.
  5. If I scrolled through your ipod what artists would I be surprised you have on there? Chick Corea, Adele, Barbra Streisand, Chaka Khan, Lupe Fiasco, Mint Condition,  Rascal Flatts, Pink, Rahsaan Patterson, Jay-Z, Sarah Vaughan!!
  6. Do you ever get discouraged with the whole business side of the industry and if so how do you stay motivated? ABSOLUTELY!!  You grow up as this kid with a dream to sing (thank God my father and sisters experiences schooled me on the politics), and are rudely awakened by all of the red tape you have to fight your way through just to be heard.  Truth be told, it really sucks!  If you’re not determined and prayed up, you can really become completely discouraged.  No matter what genre you’re in.  At this point, I simply wait on God. Sure, I do the work, but he makes it all happen.  I stay motivated by believing and trusting in the word of God, and knowing that he will fulfill the desires of my heart according to his will.

For more information on Dayna Caddell go to http://www.myspace.com/daynacaddell

2010 STELLAR AWARD FASHIONS…WERE YOU THINKING THIS TOO??

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  1. I don’t think I’ve seen Vanessa Bell Armstrong look so stunning in YEARRSSS!! But I didn’t like those white deaconess stockings she had on! Was it just me??
  2. Didn’t you feel like Crystal Aikin was reintroducing herself again?!!? The new hair and a few less pounds did her GOOOOOD!! I took a couple of double takes!! I think I have a crush…shhhhhh!
  3. I’m not sure if you could see this on TV but at the taping it was very apparent why Bebe Winans stood in one spot during their performance of “Grace.”
  4. Didn’t Tramaine Hawkins look so age appropriate!??!
  5. Didn’t you want Vickie Winans to give those wedding dresses in different colors back to the bridal shop?!? I mean that’s why Donnie McClurkin felt compelled to propose during the taping! You had to be there! LOL
  6. Sexy seniors were in the building!! Shirley Caesar in leather, Dottie Peoples showing a little skin and Albertina Walker in her diamond studded glasses and silver boots!! DO IT!!
  7. What did you think of Tina from Mary Mary in her tuxedo bow tie shirt thing?? I didn’t really like it…but her newborn baby boy was a great accessory!!
  8. They didn’t show this on TV, but I saw it while I was there. I don’t think I like men in long fur coats! What about you??
  9. Ricky Dillard & New Generation looked so RIGHT in that pink and black!!
  10. I hold Donnie McClurkin in such high esteem, but I still want to see him in some color. The brown suit wasn’t bad, I just wanted something that popped a little more.