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NEW MUSIC: DOE “NOTE TO SELF” EP
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THE LEGENDARY DORINDA CLARK-COLE OF THE CLARK SISTERS TO BE HONORED AS A TRAILBLAZER OF GOSPEL AT THE 2024 BMI TRAILBLAZERS OF GOSPEL MUSIC AWARDS
Entertainment
Kirk Franklin releases Father’s Day-new album out now!
Grappling with startling discoveries in his family history earlier this year, Kirk Franklin peels back new layers sonically on this dynamic 10-track project, which features the #1 Gospel hit “All Things,” “Try Love,” the poignant ballad “Needs,” the buoyant “Welcome Home,” “Somebody’s Son,” along with guest performances from Le’Andria Johnson, Chandler Moore, Tori Kelly, Jonathan McReynolds, Jekalyn Carr, Kelontae Gavin, and Maranda Curtis. He recently shared more of this life-changing story that has fueled this album in the moving documentary “Father’s Day: A Kirk Franklin Story” on his YouTube channel, which has garnered over 2.6 million views and counting. Watch here:
Finding strength forward in faith, Franklin has written and produced Father’s Day, bringing hope and encouraging growth building up one’s personal relationship with God. Father’s Day marks Franklin’s first new solo album since the 2019 release of his GRAMMY-winning solo album LONG LIVE LOVE. Franklin says about Father’s Day and connecting with God’s love: “I hope this album is a stripped-down, honest conversation about the difficulty of the life journey and how life can be messy, nuanced, and a matter of trial and error even for those who subscribe to faith. But it’s all wrapped in a bow of love, and that love doesn’t always make sense, but is always constant.”
Catch Kirk Franklin now on the road again in a new nationwide tour. The Reunion Tour has kicked off with Franklin, The Clark Sisters, Israel Houghton, David and Tamela Mann, and Tye Tribbett hitting over 30 cities through November. For tour dates, visit: https://tourlink.to/reuniontour.
Kirk Franklin, Father’s Day Album Out Now (Fo Yo Soul/RCA): https://KirkFranklin.lnk.to/FathersDayPR
Check out Kirk Franklin’s videos for these three singles:
“Needs”
“Try Love”
“All Things”
ABOUT KIRK FRANKLIN: ?
Kirk Franklin is a 19-time GRAMMY® Award-winning artist, songwriter, and producer. After more than 30 years of countless hits and success at bridging Gospel, R&B, Hip-Hop and Pop music together, Franklin continuously creates a sonic compass for everyday culture and curates a moment whenever and however he can to keep the message of the Gospel moving forward. With epic collaborations with artists including Mariah Carey, Khalid, Lil’ Baby, Chance the Rapper, Kanye West, Justin Timberlake, Justin Bieber, Demi Lovato, Michael Jackson and Wyclef Jean, Franklin’s impact doesn’t just stop at the charts. He works to promote the growth and development of young artists by hosting a summer camp for aspiring artists and musicians called Camp Lotus. And he supports non-profit organizations including, Compassion International and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. While Franklin is committed to helping the community, he is also passionate about making sure that Gospel music continues to reach new heights and larger audiences. In March 2023, Franklin made history by spending 100 weeks at #1 on Billboard’s Gospel Songwriters chart and becoming the first artist to reach the 100-week milestone on any Billboard songwriters chart. In addition to music, Franklin has his own channel, Kirk Franklin’s Praise, on SiriusXM and has executive produced several film and television projects including Kingdom Business on BET and Kirk Franklin’s A Gospel Christmas and Kirk Franklin’s The Night Before Christmas on Lifetime.
Entertainment
VINCENT BOHANAN & SOV’s NEW ALBUM – LIVE IN DALLAS – AVAILABLE NOW!
What began in 2014 as a response to the lack of community choirs in the area is now the signature sound of the gospel choir loving millennial. The organization of the Sound of Victory Fellowship Choir was such a success that by the third rehearsal, nearly 100 members from as far away as New Jersey and Connecticut showed up. Pastor Bohanan has bridged the generational divide by reaching back to the days of traditional gospel choir music and integrating it into the new millennium sound and gospel music experience. Nine years later, the choir is one of the most dynamic ensembles in Gospel music.
With three albums and four Stellar Gospel Music Award nominations under its belt, Vincent Bohanan & SOV is releasing its fourth project “Live in Dallas”. Recorded at the Concord Church in Dallas, Texas, Bohanan describes the album as SOV all grown up. “This album is giving a more mature version of the choir and a more mature version of me,” says Bohanan. “We were still in our teens and early twenties when we recorded our prior albums. On the last album, I was only in my first year of being a pastor…a lot has changed since our last recording. Live in Dallas is definitely a more mature sound with the choir, with the band and with me.” The album boasts 11 full songs, with memorable praise breaks, reprises and intros creating a project of 16 tracks in total. Of all the 11 songs on the album, Bohanan wrote all but one, “There Will Be Glory” which was written by Sigmund Morriar.
The album opens with “Have Your Way Lord” which invokes the group’s plea for the Lord to rule the recording. After a fabulous unfurling, the album continues with “I’m A Witness,” a song that transformed the sanctuary at Concord into one giant choir stand. The Dallas album is earmarked by the charm and singability of compositions by the late Reverend Timothy Wright. SOV took great pride in bringing their hometown sound to the South, punctuated by vocal and musical arrangements reminiscent of Brooklyn born gospel legend Professor James Hall. “I’m A Witness” compels singing along. Even without knowing the words, listeners find themselves lifting the refrain long before the song reaches its vamp. This is one of the first songs ever taught to the choir and the message and music ring true to the commitment of Christian evangelism and the preservation of the unique sound that emanates from the iconic borough.
Proof that you don’t need a lot to do a lot, Vincent Bohanan & SOV boast a simple sophistication tuned to the ears of gospel choir music listeners everywhere. The pace slows slightly with “I Still Believe,” which features Isaiah Templeton of Chicago. This follows up the Chicago album’s “I Believe God,” continues the theme and presses into the first praise break of the album. Showing off the choir’s range as a worship chorale also, native New Yorker Anaysha Figueroa Cooper joins the choir to lend her signature vocals on “Forever.” The lead single from Live in Dallas is “I Love to Call Him,” which flaunts a memorable refrain boosted by a driving bass line that moves body and spirit. Many members have remained with the group since its inception. Briana Young, an original member sings a reminder that if you don’t have the strength to fight on your own, He will always fight for you on “He Fights for Me.” Malik McClain leads “My Answer Will Be Yes,” resemblant of the best choir and band combinations of gospel choir heyday.
What’s a choir album without Bishop Kevin Bond? This one wouldn’t be complete without his unparalleled wordsmithing. His introduction preludes the second half of the album and the pronouncement of glory that is to come. Nikitta Foxx leads “There Will Be Glory” which lifts Concord’s sanctuary into an extended moment of praise and first reprised song of the album. From there, Bohanan and SOV pick up the tempo and throw us back to another of Bohanan’s first songs with their updated version of “Joy.” Not one to pause the people in praise, “I’ve Got It- Victory Chant” follows and pushes the praise to the rafters!
Kaylah Harvey delivers a stirring lead and refreshing spin on the timeless gospel hymn, “I Surrender All.” For an album containing reprises and remakes, the Dallas album is a masterpiece of its own merit. Adding “Any Day Now” to the track listing creates an instant, incessant loop of the latest offering from this amazing group led by a spiritual and sonic visionary.
Live in Dallas was recorded in 2022, to commemorate the 8th anniversary of Vincent Bohanan & SOV. “Every year, we do an anniversary concert in a different city so that we can connect with our fans from around the country. Every city has its own energy, and we get to feed off of that to create a unique experience for each recording. We had a great evening of celebrating the Lord through song, and I think people will enjoy the recording,” says Bohanan.
Vincent Bohanan & SOV was the first artist signed to HezHouse Entertainment. HezHouse founder, Grammy winner Hezekiah Walker, says the ensemble “embodies the strength and vitality of the millennial Gospel choir sound.” Live in Dallas is Vincent Bohanan & SOV’s second release on HezHouse Entertainment, which is distributed through Provident Music Group and releases to all digital streaming platforms Friday, October 6, 2023.
Entertainment
Writing Rounds Worship Drops New Collaboration and Music Video
Brendan Kendall, leads the track that was recorded at Kansas City’s multicultural Hope Chapel church with the ministry’s stellar worship team. His smooth tenor is reminiscent of Colton Dixon (“Miracles”) and Brandon Heath (“Give Me Your Eyes”) as he leads the listener through a joyous swirl of dueling guitars, booming background vocals, and arena rock zeal.
The tune is very much in line with the music by platinum groups such as Maverick City Music and Elevation Worship. “It was nearly 2 years ago when myself, Grace Souder, and Javier Batista sat down, virtually, on zoom to write,” Kendall recalls. “I believe it was Javier that mentioned using the names of God which spurred Grace to relate that concept of putting your name on it to the name of Jesus and everything just exploded from there.”
“It’s been told that I was singing before I was speaking,” says Kendall, the son of a pastor and his worship leader wife. “ I just have always felt a deep innate longing that singing and leading people to Jesus through music was what I was put on this earth to do.” Listen/Buy Link: https://li.sten.to/whataname
Video Link:
Entertainment
VIRAL SOCIAL MEDIA SENSATIONS “THE BURCH TWINS” RELEASE NEW SINGLE
The dynamic and soul-stirring duo, known as “The Burch Twins,” are ready to take the music industry by storm with the release of their highly anticipated debut single, “Heaven Is My Goal.” This captivating single is now available on all digital outlets and promises to captivate audiences with its powerful message and bilingual delivery in both English and Spanish.
Hailing from Baltimore Maryland, these talented sisters have quickly become one of Gospel industry’s best-kept secrets, garnering massive views on various social media platforms. “Their exceptional vocal abilities (in which the ladies refuse to take credit for, acknowledging that it is all THE LORD JESUS CHRIST’S doing) have caught the attention of renowned shows such as “The James Fortune Live” and “Talented Sangers,” where they have showcased their undeniable talent. Sharing the stage with esteemed artists like Pastor Donnie McClurkin and receiving acculades by artist such as Darwin Hobbs, solidifying their reputation as rising Gospel artists in the industry.
Despite “The Burch Twins” vocal gifting, their primary focus is to be ambassadors for JESUS CHRIST on and off stage. Drawing inspiration from the soulful gospel sounds of the late Reverend James Moore, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, and international Christian Latin singer Jesus Adrian Romeros, their unique blend of styles is both refreshing and captivating.
Heaven Is My Goal” is a testament to the duo’s unwavering faith and their desire to spread the message of hope and salvation through of Jesus Christ through their music. As they highlight the most important factor in this song, that Jesus Christ the Messiah is soon to return for his people and that heaven should be the goal for all believers. The single showcases their exceptional vocal range and harmonies, leaving listeners moved and inspired.
With “Heaven Is My Goal,” now hitting the airwaves “The Burch Twins are poised to make a significant impact on the music scene. Their infectious energy, undeniable talent, unwavering dedication to their faith and craft have positioned them as the new rising Gospel Artist in the gospel genre.
Please feel free to reach for more information on “The Burch Twins” official website at www.theburchtwins.com. Stay connected with them on social media platforms for updates on their upcoming tour schedule and future appearances.
Entertainment
Singer Leon Richardson Declares “God’s Gonna Do It” New Single Available Now!
Since making his debut in 2017 with his first EP release, “I Believe God,” Leon has begun to establish his distinctive imprint in Gospel music with his inspirational, anointed, and engaging musical presentations. His newest offering, “God’s Gonna Do It,” has a relatable message written to ignite the faith of those who hear it.
“God’s Gonna Do It” has powerful lyrics that instantly capture the ear of the listener, creating an instant connection of hope and faith. Leon and musician and producer Levi “Too” King crafted the single with a rhythm to sway to and a melodic composition that captivates. King is also a featured guest on the single.
“Leon is not only talented, but he has an obvious heart that is after the things of God, and it shows in his music,” says Levi “Too” King.
“My new single is created to uplift and encourage listeners not to allow their current situation to depict what God initially spoke regarding their life,” Leon states. “The song stresses that we all have different seasons of ups and downs in our lives, but what God promised, we must believe He can perform it.”
He continues, “After listening to this catchy song, I want the listener to know that what they are going through does not depict the final say. If God said it, then God’s Gonna Do It! Prophetically declare that in the situation that this is my season of miracles, signs, and wonder and that he’s going to deliver what He promised.”
Leon will perform his new single live at the 2023 Annual Welcome To Nashville Dove Showcase presented by JDWilford Presents and760AM The Gospel Radio in Nashville, TN, on October 15. Leon won the Audition Competition, securing his spot on the showcase with the dynamic line-up of artists and groups performing.
He is also set to premiere his official music video for “God’s Gonna Do It” on October 22 at 7:30PM Central. You can follow Leon on his YouTube channel and get notified of the video premiere ? here.
“God’s Gonna Do It” is available now on all digital music outlets. You are invited to follow Leon on social media as he invites you to connect the message with the music and connect hope and faith!
Entertainment
Dr. Angelia Williams signs with Uncle G Promotions & Entertainment Company
Dr. Angelia Williams is a native of Milwaukee, WI, and the owner of Angelia Williams Enterprises. She began her music career at an early age and has shared the stage with many iconic names in Gospel music such as Fred Hammond, Kim Burrell, The Men of Standard, Karen Clarke-Sheard, and Carmen, to name a few. Her coaching philosophy encompasses awhole-person perspective that includes the mind, body, and spirit, not just vocal technique and pedagogy. She uses Performance Psychology to marry her extensive knowledge of music and psychology, allowing her to coach singers and public speakers from a comprehensive point of view.
Angelia not only teaches her clients how to improve their singing and public speaking skills but also provides psychological training and life coaching to help them overcome Music Performance Anxiety, which can be a major hurdle for performers. The Voice Studio of Angelia Williams has received Nashville’s Best Award in the Vocal Coach categoryconsecutively from 2013 to 2022 and continues to work with singers and speakers in various international markets.
Uncle G Promotions & Entertainment is excited to embark on new ventures with Angelia Williams to include national main-stage performances, interviews, exclusive premieres, and much more.
Entertainment
Bishop Joel Robert Peebles, Sr. To Succeed Bishop Neil C. Ellis as the Next Presiding Bishop of Global United Fellowship
Bishop Joel R. Peebles, Sr will be enthroned as the next Presiding Bishop during his Enthronement Service on October 18, 2023. Bishop Neil C. Ellis will officially retire as the Presiding Bishop of Global United Fellowship on October 17, 2023, during his official Service of Retirement, which is a part of the Services of Episcopal Succession for Global United Fellowship.
Bishop Neil C. Ellis who founded Global United Fellowship in 2013, made the announcement during “The Gathering,” Global United Fellowship’s annual conference, that took place this year in Landover, MD in July of this year, in front of thousands of attendees, as well as a worldwide streaming audience. This appointment demonstrates a strong trust and respect for Bishop Joel R. Peebles, Sr., a proven and dynamic leader in the body of Christ world-wide.
“With deep gratitude and humility, I accept the God-ordained responsibility and opportunity bestowed upon me. I express my sincere appreciation to Bishop Neil C. Ellis for choosing me as the next Presiding Bishop. My commitment is unwavering toward fostering a positive future for the Fellowship. Every day, I will continue to work diligently to ensure the fulfillment of the mission and vision set by our founder. During this transition, we will remain united, strong, and dedicated. We are a fellowship of independent churches from different denominations and backgrounds who strategically provide an end-to-end ministry ecosystem to provide churches of all sizes, resources to execute ministry at a level of operational excellence & diligence for the Kingdom. In short, I encourage our pastors, “Don’t Do Ministry Alone.” We are here for you.”
“In addition, our goal at Global United Fellowship is to do something unique and different. Our plan is to establish connections between the church world and the business world by forming dynamic partnerships. Already, Global United Fellowship has forged relationships with The Black Wealth Summit, Impact Network, and Carolina Kitchen. These collaborations will enable our members to recognize the significance of wealth creation, entrepreneurial prospects, and utilizing business networks to bring fresh opportunities to their congregations. Additionally, we are currently in the process of forming partnerships with major corporate organizations. The possibilities for Global United Fellowship are endless,” said Peebles.
About Bishop Joel R. Peebles
Bishop Joel R. Peebles, Sr. leads the esteemed City of Praise Family Ministries in Landover, MD, a church known for its excellence. He comes from a well-established family of preachers and teachers and is following in the footsteps of his parents, the late Bishop James Peebles and the late Apostle Betty Peebles, who founded Jericho Baptist church in 1964. The Jericho Baptist Church, now named City of Praise Family Ministries, serves as a strong spiritual pillar for the Washington DC Metro area, focused on their noble mission of “Saving Families, One Soul At A Time!” This church’s impact extends beyond just spiritual matters and encompasses a range of social and economic initiatives. In Prince George’s County, MD, and elsewhere, City of Praise Family Ministries offers over 70 ministries that contribute to community enhancement. Remarkably, it houses one of Maryland’s largest Food Bank Centers. Additionally, they provide support for college application fees, assistance with the college application process, SAT/ACT test preparation, and college tours through their Road to College program. The ministry also facilitates access to affordable senior living facilities and operates the Jericho School for educational sustainability. Through all these endeavors, City of Praise Family Ministries is a church devoted to empowering and bringing success to the community by emphasizing the values of family and love.
Bishop Joel R. Peebles, Sr. will assume his role during a time when the church culture faces multiple challenges and a changing Christian landscape. As a highly skilled and insightful spiritual innovator and teacher, Bishop Joel R. Peebles, Sr. is equipped to face these challenges and is driven to grow the Kingdom of God. Upholding the timeless message of love, faith, and hope, Bishop Joel R. Peebles, Sr. continues to inspire people around the world, just as countless others have done for over two millennia.
Residing in Prince Georges Country, Maryland, Bishop Joel R. Peebles, Sr. shares his life with his honorable wife, Pastor Ylawnda Peebles, their four children named Joel, Jordan, Janay, and Jeremiah, as well as their son-in- law, Thaddeus, and beloved grandson, Joel III.
About Bishop Neil C. Ellis
Born on the tiny island of Bimini, The Bahamas, at the age of nine years, his oratorical skills catapulted him into the national spotlight and won him a scholarship from former Prime Minister of The Bahamas the late Sir Lynden O. Pindling, to attend one of the premier high schools in the capital city of Nassau. Upon graduation, he matriculated to the College of The Bahamas and later served as president of the College of the Bahamas Union of Students (COBUS). He has authored 12 practical books that challenge, motivate and inspire the reader.
The former businessman heard and accepted a higher calling to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ at a very early age, and in February 1987, organized Mount Tabor Union Baptist Church with 11 charter members. No one knew that when newlywed Rev. Neil C. Ellis accepted the pastoral mantle twenty six years later, with his fresh style of ministry; he would emerge as the pastor of thousands at Mount Tabor Church and thousands more via his Internet Church, Mount Tabor Anytime. Each week his soul-stirring, life-changing, motivational, inspirational and revelatory messages are viewed on television and streamed on the internet.
The tentacles of his influence are visible globally. As a pastor, He mentors some 40 pastors in The Bahamas and throughout the United States. Bishop Ellis is passionate about the Word of God and its ability to transform lives and has travelled throughout The Bahamas, the Caribbean, North America, Germany, Africa, Israel, Greece and Rome preaching the gospel. He has been recognized by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth of England for rendering distinguished services in Commonwealth nations. For twenty years he has served in various offices in the Full Gospel Baptist Church International. Most recently, he has given birth to The Global United Fellowship, an international body of spiritual leaders, fellowships and congregations united to strategically plan, implement and execute transformative and generational change as well as expand the Kingdom of God to all the nations of the world. It is for this reason he says, “I was born.”
He is the recipient of the 2010 Trumpet Award for Spiritual Enlightenment and he is the youngest living inductee in the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame located in Atlanta, Georgia. His song, “Don’t Do It Without Me” was nominated for a prestigious Dove Award.
Bishop Ellis is married to the former Patrice Michelle Johnson and they along with their two children Johnathan and Renechea reside in Nassau, Bahamas.
About Global United Fellowship
Established in 2013 under the leadership of Bishop Neil C. Ellis, Global United Fellowship (GUF) is a cross-denominational fellowship of spiritual leaders and churches united to strategically plan, implement and execute transformative and generational impact, and expand the Kingdom of God to all the nations of the world. The Fellowship’s Five Prong mandate is to unite churches; equip leaders; enhance marriages; resurrect the discipline of prayer and build covenant relationships within the Body of Christ. GUF is comprised of more than 700 churches from countries and provinces including the Bahamas; England; Jamaica; Pakistan; South Africa; West Africa, the Philippines, the Turks & Caicos Islands, and The United States. With over 150 consecrated Bishops and Apostles in the Fellowship, and hundreds of influential pastors, GUF is equipped to leave a major spiritual imprint on today’s culture through targeted ministries in the areas of Family, Education, Business, Media, Religion, Government and Arts & Entertainment. More information can be found at www.globalunitedfellowship.org.
Entertainment
Zacardi Cortez Hits Number One At Radio
“This has been such a phenomenal year for Zacardi”, states Blacksmoke CEO Kerry Douglas. “There was the Imprint tour, Zacardi hit the road with a couple of friends, and he met packed out venues at every stop, then there was the Black Music Honors and Stellar Awards performances, and we can’t leave out his 3 Stellar Award wins for Traditional Male Artist of the Year, Traditional Album of the Year and Praise and Worship Song of the Year. Continuing the streak, Lord Do It For Me has such a connection with the people; we are well over 10 million streams, and the song lives as its own person on Tiktok, but more importantly, the messages that pour in from around the world just about every day with people sharing their personal testimonies of how the song has impacted their lives, that’s when you see God at work.”
This win holds a special place for Kerry Douglas Radio Promotions as Kerry “Kdjforreal” Douglas. Jr. picks up the mantle in promoting great music. Kerry, Jr. shared this, “I’m excited for Zacardi because this is really a great record and we have an opportunity for my siblings, the next generation, to continue the legacy of Kerry Douglas. I have met a lot of great people and want to do my part taking music to the top of the charts.”
Zacardi Cortez continues his rigorous performance schedule while making some time to get in a guest appearance on the new EP from fellow Stellar Award winner James Fortune. Be sure to catch them coming to a city near you in the coming weeks.
Stay connected to Zacardi Cortez via social media.