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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.

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.

Elvin Ross

Elvin Ross

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As creator and executive producer, Elvin Ross is responsible for one of the Gospel Music Channels top rated TV series, the American Idol styled Gospel talent competition, Gospel Dream. Despite many viewers being upset with the talent that was showcased this last season, it was one of the highest rated seasons.

After hearing all the rumblings and agreeing with many of them, I knew I had to sit down with Mr. Ross and get his take!

How did you get your start?

I was traveling the country with Tyler Perry as his musical director for his stage plays. I was the guy who would audition aspiring artists to be in the plays. While everyone was eating lunch, I would be auditioning talent!

How did you meet Tyler Perry?

Tyler and I used to go to church together in New Orleans. I eventually moved to Atlanta in hopes of the big American dream and Tyler and I met again while I was playing at Bishop James Morton’s church. Tyler approached me and said he was starting a new play and wanted to know if I’d be interested in coming on and being his musical director. I accepted and that’s when things started kicking off for the both of us. Since then I have scored two Tyler Perry films. That was a God sent union for the both of us. We used to be so broke that we would split burgers because we didn’t have enough money between us. It’s incredible where God has placed him!

Where did the concept for “Gospel Dream” come from?

My wife and I were watching American Idol one night and I said we need something like this in the Christian community. I wanted a place where Gospel/Christian artists could showcase their talent in front of industry professionals. We launched Gospel Dream at the 10th Year Anniversary of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship in 2003 in Atlanta, GA with Bishop Paul S. Morton, who happens to be my father-in-law.

Where did you get funding to produce the show?

Initially when we started with Gospel Dream the Full Gospel Baptist Fellowship underwrote the program. So we were able to shoot and produce the program and then BET picked it up for the first two years. It was BET’s highest rated special program.

How did Gospel Dream end up being on the Gospel Music Channel?

The G.M.C. was just starting up and at the time Alvin Williams was with Music World Entertainment.  He told me there was a new network starting up and he wanted to send them some tapes of the show. The head honchos of the network really loved the program and the rest as they say is history. We’ve been there ever since. Eventually Alvin became one of the judges for the second season of Gospel Dream.

When the show first started what kind of artists were you looking for?

When we first started out we were really looking for Gospel artists that could sit in between the more established artist like Yolanda Adams and CeCe Winans, big artists like that. I think we succeeded with our first two winners, Benita Washington and Stephanie Dotson.

Many of the viewers seemed a little disenchanted with the talent this year. What is your feeling on that?

We got flack from the Gospel community about the talent, but the mainstream audience was more receptive to this season’s show. I wanted to make sure we reached out to more diverse audiences and so I think the talent shifted. We wanted a more general type of singer. And general singers are not necessarily the Gospel artists that belt and squall and all that. Since we’ve been with G.M.C. their motto is “bridging the gap”, so I think we’ve been accomplishing that with our winners lately. The talent that showed up was deserving of being in the finals. And I mean that how I say it. I can’t compare last year with this year because there was a different pool. This year we had a more diverse group of singers. Like, Tony Lebron, who is an extraordinary singer and worshipper. He deserved the title and he’s Latino. So I think it just depends on how you look at it. It’s a different audience that appreciated this season. The Gospel audience may not have appreciated it as much as the general market. I think that’s what the network was trying to establish. They wanted to go beyond the church walls and reach everyone. I’m getting calls from Europe and different continents now to have a Gospel Dream in those countries. I guess the purpose of going beyond on the walls is working.

Do you feel like the show holds up their obligation as far as the winner’s prize is concerned?

I don’t know about other contests, but as far as Gospel Dream, what we promise we try our best to deliver. We promise records and record deals and that’s what we deliver. Even with Benita Washington, I literally had to do everything myself because no one really believed in what I was presenting at first. As a result, I believe her career has jumped off, even to the point where you interviewed her and she sold a bunch of records. Stephanie Dotson was featured in a Tyler Perry movie. Those opportunities never would have been afforded to them if it weren’t for the platform of Gospel Dream. And Melinda Watts is all over the place. So I don’t think we’re presenting a false sense of reality. You can’t force people to go out and buy records, but we do everything in our efforts to make sure that happens.

How important is image when signing an artist?

Image plays a major role and I don’t mean just being cute, but being Godly-looking. Everyone is not fit to be skinny and look like a model and it’s unfortunate that society looks at that. There are some people who aren’t attractive, per se, who are great ministers of music and effective in reaching people and I work with those people. So it’s just being able to make yourself beautiful. (lol) It’s sad too because there are singers who can kill an audience, but labels won’t even look at them because they aren’t what the world deems attractive.

How much involvement do you have in the show?

I work hand in hand with the network. Everything runs across my desk. But as far as the talent and the judges, I stay out of their ear. I have nothing to do with the finalists who are chosen. So when the winner is picked, I’m just as excited and shocked as everyone else. I never want anyone to feel like this is a fixed show.

Will there be any new things added to Gospel Dream in 2010?

Most definitely! There will be new elements added to the show and the cool thing about it is now we’ve changed the format and made it more exclusive! So stay tuned!

THE STELLAR AWARDS WEEKEND RECAP PT. 1

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Well everybody I’m back from my first official Stellar Awards Weekend EVER and I must say it was worth all the build up and hoopla and it exceeded my expectations! Now that I am back in Los Angeles I can say that I’m 100% exhausted. You don’t come to the Stellars to sleep that’s for sure! But, I’m back with a renewed sense of energy and I’m ready to hit the ground running with a vengeance. There was a lot going on the whole weekend. So much so that I can’t recap EVERYTHING, but I’m going to give you some of my favorite highlights from the weekend. So let’s go…I’m going to start from my flight.

Thursday January 14th, 2009 leaving LA

Unbeknownst to me there were a couple of familiar faces on my flight starting off with Erica & Tina best known as Mary Mary, Neily Dickerson big time executive in the Gospel industry and Phil Thornton Jessica Reedy’s manager and a major power player in the entertainment business! Momma Campbell was on the flight too, but I don’t know her name so we’ll just call her the Mary’s mom! There were some other black people on the flight that I know were headed to Nashville also, but I don’t know who they were so there it is! LOL

Later on that night…Urban Soul Café Access Granted

After I met my roomie for the weekend, up and coming Gospel artist Titus Jackson (remember the name yall plus he’s an absolute fool) we dropped our stuff off at the room, hooked up with the Bonnerfide Radio crew and got some grub! THANK YOU JESUS FOR PROTEIN! (LOL)

Then we made our way to the Urban Soul Café Access Granted show. We got there really late so to be honest I don’t know who we missed. But by the looks of the flyer, 98% of the artists I had never heard of. So I was giving it CRICKETS even before I got there. (I know that wasn’t right, but I’m just being honest lol) J. Moss was on the flyer and I don’t think he performed. 21:03 entered the building via video screen because they were in London. CRICKETS to that video message they showed. I didn’t see the purpose!

The highlights of the evening for me came from Melinda Watts, Adrianne Archie and Johnny B Williams. Melinda Watts sang “Say Yes,” which is probably one my least favorite songs on the album, but I thought it went over well live! Then she sang “Purpose Driven Life.” GOOD LAWWWDD does she minister with that song! Melinda performs like a seasoned artist and every time I see her sing live she is in perfect voice! She has really become one of my favorites lately.

I had never seen Adrianne Archie perform or even heard any of her music, but she obviously has a following. She made me a believer! She definitely got the crowd up and her energy on stage was infectious. I really enjoyed her set.

And THEN some dude hit the stage by the name of Johnny B. Williams. HEAR ME WHEN I SAY he is THE TRUTH!!! He was phenomenal. It was just him, his red/burgundy guitar and flawless vocals! Think Stevie Wonder meets Jonathan Butler and that’s what he sounds like! He captivated the whole room and had everyone worshipping. It was an awesome experience! It’s imperative that I get more information on him! STAY TUNED!

An artist named Petula performed and she was cool, but I felt sorry for her because she had a table set up with a lot of CD’s and I didn’t see anybody go by her table. But Michelle Lang’s table was right beside hers and I didn’t see anyone at her table either. The crowd was giving the tables CRICKETS! I almost went over to their tables so it would look like someone was over there, (lol) but I was too tired to get up. The men of G.I. did a cool two song set too. The one with the braids…he can really sing. They need to let him do most of the leads! Oh yeah James Fortune & Fiya performed and of course everyone was just waiting to hear Zacardi Cortez rip the vocals to shreds. I don’t even know anyone else in that group. I don’t think anybody else does either? Well do you??

BMI LUNCHEON Friday January 15th

So this was the exclusive invitation only luncheon that I’ve heard in the past is usually better than the actual Stellar Awards. This year at the 2010 BMI event, Andrae Crouch and Donnie McClurkin were honored. In the back of my mind, I was like I hope I don’t get to the front to give my name and they give me CRICKETS. (lol) Thank God that didn’t happen. Before the show started everyone was mulling around doing that kissy, kissy, so happy to see you spiel. You know what I mean…the formalities! (lol)

Let me tell you what we ate before I go any further. They started us off with a salad. Then the main course came which was a roll, some type of breaded crusted chicken breast, macaroni and cheese and a vegetable. There was some type of pastry on the table too. I never ate it, but it was there. Overall the food was good. Except that macaroni and cheese that me and Karen Jackson of EMI had to doctor up because it tasted like cardboard at first! (lol) Before I move on can I say there is a spirit of hmmmm…how do I say this…HUNGRINESS more so among the men in Gospel. Some of them with their bellies hanging over their belts should practice portion control. There was someone at my table, who will remain nameless, because everyone will know who it is, wiped his plate CLEAN. And he’s somebody that probably should have left a little something on his plate. LOL ok I’m done moving on.

The afternoon started off honoring Donnie McClurkin. DeWayne Woods served as the musical director. With him were 6 of the baddest sangin women background singers and the house band that consisted of a whose who of musicians. Hosted by Byron Cage the afternoon went something like this…

  • Dorinda Clark Cole opened the show with her hit “Take it Back” which won the BMI song of the year award written by Derrick Starks.
  • Jessica Reedy performed her trademark song “God Has Smiled on Me” and she sounded amazing as usual. But what stood out the most was her stage presence. She looked relaxed, comfortable and you could see her growth as an artist.
  • After those two performances, the official honoring of Donnie McClurkin began with the background singers performing a snippet of “That’s What I Believe.”
  • Latice Crawford sang “I Call You Holy” and it just wasn’t good. It sounded like she was yelling through the whole song and I don’t think it went over well with the crowd either. Basically she got CRICKETS!
  • Micah Stampley performed “Speak to My Heart” and woke the audience up!
  • Before Marvin L. Winans even sang a note everyone was on their feet. He sang “Stand” and brought the house down. He also brought his brother Bebe up to bring it on home!
  • Yolanda Adams performed the classic sinner’s redemption song “We Fall Down.”

All in all I felt Donnie McClurkin’s tribute was nice. But as me and some my friends were talking about everything over brunch on Sunday, a few of us felt that the tribute wasn’t personal enough. Meaning, the organizers of the event could have done a better job personalizing the performances with artists that were close friends or even family members of Donnie. (i.e. The McClurkins) It didn’t take away from anything, but it was just a side note.

After Donnie’s tribute concluded they went right into the legend Andrae Crouch hosted by Yolanda Adams.

  • The incredible, incomparable Donald Lawrence did a short medley of some of Andrae’s timeless classics. Donald relieved Blanche McAllister-Dykes of her background duties for a brief moment and brought her to the front to sing “Right Now” from my favorite Andrae Crouch album “No Time to Lose.” Then closed it out with “Quiet Times” and “Soon and Very Soon.”

  • The distinctive voice of Tata Vega set the atmosphere on fire when she sang “Speak Lord” from the movie “The Color Purple” and “Oh it is Jesus.” After she took the stage, the whole place changed into a straight up church service! That’s when Yolanda Adams WENT IN! She started jumping and shouting so hard I was afraid she was going to jump a hole through the stage and fall through. (lol) But hey when the spirit moves!

  • Give BeBe & CeCe a classic and they will light the place on fire and that’s exactly what they did with “The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power.”

  • Our favorite sisters Mary Mary performed “We Are Not Ashamed.” Can I just say that lately every time Erica opens her mouth she sounds INCREDIBLE! Not that she didn’t sound good before, but her vocals have been on another level lately! Maybe it’s the baby. If that’s what it is…Erica can you stay pregnant please?!!? (LOL)
  • After Marvin Winans shared more than a brief history (lol) of The Winans and Andrae Crouch he finally started singing the classic “Jesus is Lord” and brought the singer of all singers Karen Clark Sheard up on stage. She wrecked the place with her runs in less than a minute!
  • Mr. Crouch closed out the evening with a touching speech and briefly mentioned the many health problems he had been dealing with recently. He started telling a story about a hole in his toe. While it was moving testimony, I was so happy that I had stopped eating because it got a little graphic for me and I felt a little of my food come up in my throat! (LOL, LOL)
  • At the very end Marvin Winans brought up all the SINGERS in the house (Vanessa Bell Armstrong, J. Moss, Donnie McClurkin, BeBe & CeCe, Karen Clark Sheard, Dorinda Clark Cole, etc.) for an impromptu Andrae Crouch medley.

I think Andrae’s portion was a little better than Donnie’s, but overall it was an absolutely great event. If you weren’t in the building, I hope this recap makes you feel like you were there or at least in the lobby peeking in trying to see what was going on! J I was truly honored to be there. God is so good!

STAY TUNED FOR PART 2 OF THE DAGOSPELTRUTH STELLAR AWARDS WEEKEND RECAP!

BET’S CELEBRATION OF GOSPEL…WERE YOU THINKING THIS TOO??

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  1. Does Shirley Ceaser have a time machine that stops her from aging!?!?! Doesn’t she still look the same from when C.O.G. first aired!?!?
  2. Didn’t those cones on Y’Anna Crawley’s dress look like the cones Madonna used to wear?? You know you were thinking it! (lol)
  3. Ok, YES, we ALL know CeCe is beautiful…but wasn’t Bebe & CeCe’s performance just a little…hmmm…how do I say this…a tad boring?!?
  4. Weren’t you wondering who gave Bobby Jones that idea for that bubble wrap homeless costume!? Whoever it was should be…FIRED!!
  5. After seeing the tribute for Steve Harvey, weren’t you ESCTATIC that he let that flattop/box go and went with the bald look!?!?
  6. Didn’t you wonder how much celebrity journalist Jawn Murray paid the camera man to get him in every shot?!?! (lol)
  7. Donald Lawrence’s suit on the red carpet was Gucci from head to toe! It was hot! But that suit he performed in…hmmm…but he’s the Donald, so I guess he can do that!
  8. The more you see Fred Hammond perform songs from this new album “Love Unstoppable” don’t you start to like the CD even more?!?!
  9. If they ask Yolanda Adams to sing “Victory” on one more show don’t you think she should put her foot down and say NO! Cuz I sure do!!
  10. Didn’t you think James Fortune’s white tuxedo jacket and black pants was a little boring?!?! Come on James you had an incredible year in ’09 with a mega chart topping song…now let’s get a stylist.

DA GOSPEL TRUTH REVIEWS NEW ARTIST AARON SLEDGE’S SELF- TITLED DEBUT

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Although I thought I had no idea who Aaron Sledge was, in actuality I had been listening to his music for some time now. After reading his bio and credits I quickly realized Aaron is not a new face to the music industry he’s just been behind the scenes writing hits for MAJOR artists like Yolanda Adams, Smokie Norful, and R&B chart toppers Tyrese and Mario and multi-platinum Hip Hop artist, Nelly. After listening to his self- titled debut release from EMI, I hear a noticeable essence of his vocal styling and production in all of the artists he’s worked with. I get bombarded with a lot of music and often times it’s hard to give every CD I’m sent a fair chance. That’s why many times I won’t write a review or give my opinion until I’ve sat with the CD for a month or more. I think EMI made a smart choice when they signed this singer/songwriter/producer and added him to their roster! Aaron’s debut CD is packed with pristine production, intricate catchy vocal arrangements and relatable lyrics that invoke the listener to examine their relationship with God. If you don’t like your kids listening to everything that’s on the radio because you’re afraid of what they might be picking up, Aaron’s album is the perfect alternative with the same hard hitting urban sound, but with a God-fearing message. And even as an adult, if you’re trying to wean yourself away from certain artists that you know aren’t saying anything positive, this will satisfy your palette. Go download this one! I’m recommending this. STANDOUT CUTS: “Da Light,” “Paradise,” “Did it All For Me,” “Restoration,” & “Extra Mile.”

http://www.myspace.com/skyhighdalight

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph

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Sheryl Lee Ralph is an accomplished actress, singer, producer, director, but most of all she’s a woman with a voice that’s determined to make a difference in helping finding a cure for one of the deadliest diseases of our time, HIV/AIDS. Sheryl’s tireless efforts to raise money to fight the war against HIV/AIDS are to be applauded and admired! She has a wonderful event “Divas Simply Singing”, coming this Saturday, October 10, 2009 at 7:30 pm that you don’t want to miss! For more information go to www.divassimplysinging.com

What made you become such an outspoken activist for HIV/AIDS?

I think most folks have forgotten that it’s still a disease that is killing millions of people every year. When HIV/AIDS first came out many of my friends died with a negative stigma attached to them. I refused to let my friends pass away like they were bad people, because they weren’t. I always felt that if we had cared more in the beginning and weren’t focused on the fact that it was supposedly a “gay disease” we wouldn’t be in the position we’re in now. Every year the divas perform and lend their talents, we represent the fastest growing group that is affected and infected by HIV/AIDS and that would be women of color, especially black women.

Where did the idea for “Divas Simply Singing” come from?

Honestly it all came to me in a dream. I am very proud of what we’ve accomplished because we have the longest running consecutive musical AIDS benefit in the United States. We are the only benefit that has never missed one year. I am really excited about this year too as I have been about all the others. This is our 19th year and we have some amazing performers that I know are going to give moving performances. This year we have divas like; Yolanda Adams, Faith Evans, Tamia, Kelly Price, Brenda Russell, Loretta Devine, Frenchie Davis, Jessica Reedy, Jennifer Lewis, Yo Yo and many more. It is truly going to be a spectacular night!

What do you attribute the success to?

I attribute the success to my tenacity, not taking no for an answer and my dedication and commitment to my friends’ lives.

How has the benefit concert evolved up to this current year?

When we first started we were just “divas” and we were using that moniker to get people’s attention. Now we’re a movement. “DIVAS” stands for “Divinely, Inspired and Victoriously Anointed.” Putting on this benefit concert every year is never easy. Believe it or not, it’s not easy getting people to volunteer and come out to perform for free. So I cast a wide net. I continue to talk about the concert every chance I get. I thank God it has grown to the point where people want to be involved. We do the best we can each year.

Does it ever get overwhelming?

Oh yes there are many times that it doesn’t look so promising.  Some years I thought I would have to do it from the steps of my house. But more than any year, this was the most challenging for me. I found myself wondering, “should I stop?” One day I was talking to a minister friend of mine and he said all the folks that are telling you to stop are the ones who can’t do what you do. There are days when I wish I had more help from corporations and companies that throw money at other things that have no depth or meaning, but God knows what I’m doing and He always blesses my efforts.

How important is your relationship with God when taking on a task of this magnitude?

It’s what keeps me going. I am far from Christ, but Christ was a rebel because He dared to tell people do unto others as you would have them do unto you.  It was Christ who said, “Let him who is without sin cast the first stone.”

Have you received any negative feedback for your efforts on HIV/AIDS research and awareness?

Oh yes! Someone videotaped hate mail and posted it to YouTube last year. They said I was a stupid woman for caring for those f******. Deep down I know they don’t mean it. They are just misguided.

Where do you see this going in another 5 years?

I really hope people will start having open conversations about HIV/AIDS prevention and openly talking about sex. It’s not just about saving the lives of adults, but these days it’s about saving the lives of our children too. So far we’ve raised over 5 million dollars and we’ve created a movement and that’s priceless! I absolutely believe one day we will find a cure and I want to do everything in my power to make sure that we do!

GOSPEL FEMALE ARTISTS…WERE YOU THINKING THIS TOO??

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  1. Do you think we’ll hear from Crystal Aikin again after Y’Anna Crawley and Jessica Reedy release their debut CD’s??
  2. How come the female artists from Richard Smallwood’s camp don’t breakout into huge Gospel stars? (i.e. Vanessa Williams & Maurette Brown Clark)
  3. Hasn’t 2008 winner of Gospel Dream Melinda Watts been getting crazy exposure lately??
  4. Weren’t you expecting something more from that duet with Coko & Kelly Price on Coko’s new CD “The Winner in Me”?!
  5. Wasn’t CeCe Winans’ “Everlasting Love” your favorite out of all her solo CD’s?!
  6. Is anyone missing Yolanda Adams? I’m just asking.
  7. Did Vanessa Bell Armstrong try to be too urban on her last CD “Walking Miracle”?! I liked it, but I definitely heard other opinions!
  8. Weren’t we all waiting for Ted & Sheri to split so we could get a solo album from Sheri?!
  9. What happened to DeNetria Champ?? I mean she sang for Oprah’s Legends Ball!!!
  10. Didn’t Karen Clark Sheard look 32 on the cover of “2nd Chance”?! It’s amazing what weight loss, long hair and some hoop earrings will do! (LOL)
Mary Tiller-Woods former member of Anointed

Mary Tiller-Woods former member of Anointed

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I don’t know about anyone else, but I’ve always wondered why Mary Tiller-Woods Anointed so abruptly. She was there and then all of a sudden she was gone! And just as Anointed was gaining momentum with their most popular release to date “The Call”.  So you know me, I had to find out what really went down and here is what Mary had to tell me…

Who came up with the name “Anointed”?

I believe Nissi came up with that name. People would always come up to us and say you guys are anointed, so it kind of just stuck!

How well did you guys know each other?

We probably didn’t know each other as well as we should have. We sang in the same youth choir in Columbus, Ohio. When the group first formed, I would say we were friendly.  As time went on we became very close. If you saw one of us, you saw all of us. Da’dra and I were even roommates at one time.

What do you remember about the recording of “Spiritual Love Affair”?

We recorded “Spiritual Love Affair” in ‘92. We were all very young still. It was a whirlwind.  Steve, Da’dra and I were all going to the same school. I remember we flew to out to California and we stayed in a house where the studio was. It all went very fast. My grandfather had a heart attack while we were recording the album, but he told me to continue you on.  We laughed a lot though. Those were some of my fondest memories of being in Anointed! It was exciting and stressful all at the same time with the anticipation of everything!

Did you guys disagree a lot in the beginning?

We didn’t argue about anything major. It was more like sibling rivalry. We had to get over who was singing the lead on a certain song that one of us may have written, but it was nothing big. We were young, so at that time that stuff was trivial.

When did you start having problems with the group?

At the time my issues weren’t with my group members, it was with management. I don’t want to go into a detailed account of what happened back then because it was so long ago and we have all moved on, but I just felt singled out and isolated. I felt our manager was a big part of why it was happening to me. I’m the kind of person that if you tell me I need to do something, I want an explanation. I have a voice and I speak up. I might have been a nuisance in that way. I’m not really sure. I felt like I was being retaliated against for speaking up and some other issues at the time.

How long had he been the group’s manager?

He had been managing us for about 4 years, but I had with the group for nine years at this time. It really just got to a point where enough was enough. I went to the group and basically gave them an ultimatum. I said it was him or me. I don’t regret my decision that I made at the time, but looking back I would have handled things differently. But again, we were all very young.

Do you think the other members knew what was going on?

I can only assume they didn’t know or didn’t want to believe. When I finally broke my silence, it was all out in the open then. They were understanding of me and my decision. I think they wanted me to wait and just hold out a little longer, but I just couldn’t. They eventually changed management.

Have you spoke with your former manager since everything went down?

We have talked. He apologized and it was already forgiven. I don’t talk to him everyday, but that’s in the past. He has a family now and from what I hear he is pastoring a church, so I wish him nothing but the best!

Weren’t upset at how everything turned out?

I wasn’t mad. I was more disappointed. I didn’t feel valued or appreciated. I’m married now, so if I tell my husband I don’t feel comfortable with someone in our house even if he doesn’t see anything wrong with the person, they wouldn’t be welcome in our house anymore. I don’t feel like they had my back. Again, we were young and communication was a definite problem within the group. I equate the group to a marriage and all of us came from single homes, so we didn’t know what a successful relationship looked like. The kind of structure that was needed to foster accountability and support was not there. The spiritual warfare we encountered was insane. You just wouldn’t believe!

What is your relationship like with them now?

I love all of them! They are each still dear to me. Nissi is like my sister! We had our babies on the same day with the same doctor. Steve and Da’dra sang at my wedding when I got married. And I was able to celebrate with Da’dra for the birth of her second baby. We are bonded together for life. I will cut you if you talk about any of them lol! Anointed was an amazing vehicle for God to get us to the point that we’re all at now. Even after I left the group, I still followed their careers!

Would you like to see all of you back together again as Anointed?

If someone told me the other 3 agreed to it, I would down for it. But, I’m also not trying to go backwards either. If it’s God’s will, then one day it will happen.

What did you learn from this whole experience?

God taught me that it’s not in your rising; it’s in your falling where you find your real testimony! People are much more attentive when you’re spiraling downward. We are human, so it’s natural for us to fall and have hardships. It’s the ability to grow and show others that God will renew your life, your spirit, and your situation!

So what new things are you working on now?

I am hosting a worship conference called “Worship is My Life”. I’m really excited about that! Also, I’m working on mentoring new artists to offer whatever knowledge will be beneficial in helping them be successful. I also want to learn how to play the guitar and soon I’ll be recording a live worship CD. I’ve also written a book, “Faith Confessions for the Journey”!

Mary’s 20 Random Truths

  1. Favorite “Anointed” song? “Don’t Sweat It”.
  2. Would you ever skydive? When the trumpet sounds, yes!
  3. Favorite American Idol? Paris Bennett
  4. Can you change a flat tire? Yes, but I haven’t had too.
  5. What kind of deodorant do you use? Secret.
  6. Favorite perfume? Laila.
  7. Guilty pleasure? Ice cream. It’s gotta have nuts and caramel!
  8. Favorite Bible story? The story of Abraham.
  9. On time or late for church? With two kids, late!
  10. Favorite TV show? Grey’s Anatomy
  11. Luther Vandross, Peabo Bryson or Howard Hewett? Luther Vandross
  12. 3 CD’s you can’t live without? Micah Stampley,  Mary Tiller, & Fred Hammond.
  13. Favorite fruit? Cantaloupe.
  14. Yolanda Adams, Crystal Lewis, Kierra Sheard or Dorinda Clark Cole? Crystal Lewis.
  15. The View, Oprah, or Ellen? The View.
  16. Do you workout? Yes.
  17. Dream vacation? One&Only have these resorts on some incredible islands.
  18. Biggest regret? I wish I would have pursued law.
  19. Ever forgot to brush your teeth? Yes.
  20. What if you had 8 kids like the octomom? I wouldn’t have 8 kids like her!
Ann Nesby

Ann Nesby

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I should have known when Ann Nesby belted out “I need relief” at the beginning of Sounds of Blackness’ hit, “The Pressure”, that we would be hearing from this soulful DIVA for years to come! And the hits haven’t stopped! I still have “Optimistic,” “I’m Still Wearing Your Name,” “A Place In My Heart,” and “Put It on Paper” in heavy rotation! I could go on, but I have to get to the interview!

Some people are lucky enough to have one amazing mother in their lifetime and it’s icing on the cake when she exemplifies what a true woman of God is. But, when you can say you have TWO, you’re blessed beyond belief. After this interview, I felt like I had one more woman of God looking out for my well-being and my spiritual walk, along with my INCREDIBLE mother!  Anyone who can do that from an hour and a half phone interview,  is truly  in a league of her, not only because  she’s one of the music industries most coveted vocalists, but because she’s one of heaven’s earthly angels!

So let’s start back at the beginning. How did you end up singing with Sounds of Blackness?

I had just finished Donald Lawrence’s off Broadway play, “Sing Hallelujah”. I was friends with Gary Hines, the director of Sounds of Blackness, and my sister was a member of the church where Gary Hines was the minister of music. My sister, Marie, had been with the group for about ten years as the lead soloist when I relocated to Minneapolis. Sounds of Blackness was a very well known choir in the Minneapolis community. Any major events like the NAACP Banquet or an Urban League event, Sounds of Blackness was the choir that did all the music. So, that’s how I started with Sounds of Blackness.

How did you end up being the lead vocalist for Sounds of Blackness?

Well, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis (Janet Jackson, Deobrah Cox, Heather Headley, Yolanda Adams) were starting their own label Flyte Tyme and I was going to be signed to their label. But, Jam & Lewis made a promise to God that when they started their own label, the first project they released would be Gospel. When Sounds of Blackness started recording, I wasn’t an official member yet. I didn’t sign with the group until I signed as a solo artist with Jam & Lewis. Jam & Lewis actually had me record a demo called “Your Wish is My Command”, which they were submitting for another artist’s album. That song ended up on Sounds of Blackness’ debut CD. That’s really how I ended up being one of the primary lead vocalists for Sounds of Blackness. And the rest as they say is history. It was really just obeying God and being at the right place at the right time.

How long did you record with Sounds of Blackness?

I sang with Sounds of Blackness from ‘88 until ‘96. Sounds of Blackness was a great platform for me as my solo CD was about to be released. On tour, Sounds of Blackness would do their hits and then I would come on after and do a set of my own. It was such a blessing to have that type of exposure. Sounds of Blackness was a wonderful platform for other solo artists in the group too, like my daughter Jamecia. That was always the plan to promote everyone’s strengths and goals to be solo artists.

Were you surprised at the massive success of “Optimistic”?

I was just so excited and so happy!! When “Optimistic” took off the way it did, I just knew it was the hand of God. It was all about timing. It was a time of self-awareness and establishing who we were in the music industry. We were an African American group displaying our wealth and beauty through our image, what we sang about and what we stood for. For so many years there were secular artists claiming to be the King of this and the Queen of that, but you can’t reign over anything when you haven’t given the proper acknowledgment of where it really started. Sounds of Blackness came from an unapologetic standpoint that we were reclaiming our music that others genres had stolen! Sounds of Blackness featured West African polyrhythms, Negro spirituals and authentic musical sounds from the Motherland. That is one of the things that people loved about our music. It was honest, it respected God and it showed a side of African American music that people had been afraid to deal with for years.

You’ve been in this business for awhile now. What is the biggest downside of the music business?

I think one of the biggest downsides of the music industry, is when you first come into this business you really don’t have any creative control. Consequently, people don’t get to find out who you are as an artist or even as a person. The music industry is like Las Vegas. It’s a gamble! They put you out there and put some money into you and everybody’s waiting to see if it works! They don’t build careers anymore like they did in the Motown era. Nowadays, if you don’t have a hit right out the gate, you don’t get a second chance. It’s sad because there are a lot of great singers that just don’t make it because of that.

You look like a new woman now! Why did you decide to have the gastric bypass surgery?

It was life or death for me. I had congestive heart failure, diabetes and arthritis all stemming from me being overweight. I tried all the diets, but with my schedule it was so hard to maintain. I wasn’t exercising regularly, I would eat late at night and lay right down afterwards. I was constantly on the go! I could barely make it through the airports. My doctor at the time really encouraged me to have the surgery. She said I was young enough where I would fully recover! I was scared, but I knew it was what I needed to do to save my life. I encourage anyone who is dealing with their weight and it’s majorly affecting their health and their doctor is recommending it, I say go for it! But, you have to follow the rules and do your homework. Get a good surgeon and do your research. Don’t just jump in and have them cut on you because it is major surgery. I have a whole new lifestyle now. I still eat what I like, but in moderation. I am now walking 4 miles a day!!! God is good! I share my story because I want to be a blessing to someone else. It is nothing to be ashamed about!

So you’re a great grandmother now!! How did you find out?

Paris and I are very close and I was one of the first people she told. We are always very open and honest with each other.  She is our first granddaughter, so we spoil her rotten! But, this is something that she wanted. Paris is a grown woman. I would have preferred that she had got married first, but we don’t all follow the same path in life. I just love the little baby. Paris created the 5th generation, so it’s a blessing! We are actually working on a tour called “Generations” with myself, Jamecia and Paris.

The new album is “The Lula Lee Project”. How is different from your last release “This Love”?

Well, “This is Love” was an inspirational R&B CD. I appreciate that God has blessed me to be able to go between both genres. If it wasn’t for Sounds of Blackness, I don’t think the transition would be so easy. My new project is vastly different from anything I’ve done, simply because of the music and the production. But, the inspirational message is still the same. The first single, “I Found A Place”, produced by the genius Tonex, is taken straight from Psalms 91. If we abide in him, he will protect us!  Tonex is so futuristic and prolific. It’s amazing to work with someone so amazingly talented. You have to be on your “A” game with him because he accepts nothing less. I worked with a lot of young, up and coming producers who love the Lord like; Herb Middleton (Mary J. Blige, Kelly Price, SWV), J. Isaac, Paul Jones and Darnell Davis.   I wanted an edgy urban sound and they gave me just what I wanted. I love every song on the album, but a few that come to my mind right off the top is “Sky is The Limit”. This song talks about teen mothers and how we as adult women don’t take the time to help them through a difficult situation. Another song I think many Ann Nesby fans will love is, “So Much Joy”. It’s a club hit. I had to remain true to who I am and the song simply says that the only real joy is Jesus! There honestly is a song on the album for everyone!

What singers do you like that are out now?

I just love good singers! I like Canton Jones, Donnie McClurkin, Dottie Peoples, Mary Mary, The Clark Sisters, Shirley Caesar, Dorothy Norwood, India Arie, Stevie Wonder, Kelly Price, Fantasia, Yolanda Adams, LaShun Pace, Donald Lawrence, Jennifer Hudson, Kierra Sheard and on and on.

What is one thing you want people to know about you?

I want people to know that I love the Lord and I’m a kingdom builder!

Ann Nesby’s 20 Random Truths

  1. Choose one: Pedicure or Manicure? Pedicure
  2. One makeup product you can’t live without? Foundation
  3. What is your favorite movie? “Imitation of Life”: The story of Mahalia Jackson
  4. Did you buy Girl Scout cookies this year? Yes! The Samoas!
  5. What is your favorite TV show? Law & Order
  6. What is your favorite Bible verse? Psalms 91
  7. Who is your favorite past season’s American Idol? Paris Bennett of course!
  8. Excluding your new project, which is your favorite Ann Nesby CD? The first one. “I’m Here For You”.
  9. What kind of toothpaste do you use? Sensodyne
  10. Favorite meal of the day? Breakfast
  11. Producer that pushes you the hardest in the studio? Jam & Lewis and Tonex!
  12. Have you ever told another singer they sounded great, when they really didn’t? No
  13. Would you ever run a marathon? I would walk it (lol)! Don’t know if I would run it!
  14. Favorite male vocalist? Donny Hathaway.
  15. If you could go on any TV show, which one would it be? The one w/ Wayne Brady, “Don’t Forget the Lyrics”.
  16. Favorite Tyler Perry film? “The Family That Preys”
  17. Last book you read? “Divine Order” by Deborah L. Harris
  18. Least favorite song you’ve recorded? “Unity” w/ Sounds of Blackness
  19. What’s on your iPod? Donald Lawrence, Coko, Karen, Yolanda Adams, Dewayne Woods, Ann Nesby, etc.
  20. If you could do a duet with any singer male or female, who would it be? Aretha Franklin