Gerald T. Smith & Youth-In-Praise Release Debut CD, "I Believe"

Gerald T. Smith & Youth-In-Praise, a Washington area-based community choir consisting of 25 persons between the ages of 11-23, proudly announce the release of their debut project, "I Believe" on Sunday, August 1, 2010, 4:00 p.m. at St. Paul Baptist Church, 6611 Walker Mill Road, Capitol Heights, Maryland.

Organized in 2002, GTS & Y-N-P are affiliated with the Washington Metropolitan Performing Arts Association and are mentees of national recording artists, Patrick Lundy and The Ministers of Music. This gives a clue as to the standard of excellence and versatility these youth personify.

Youth-N-Praise members have been afforded the opportunity to perform at a variety of local and national venues, including: The Kennedy Center, The Dance Institute of Washington's "Spirit of Kwanzaa" Celebration, The Gospel Music Workshop of America, The Warner Theater, A Taste of D.C., Christmas Celebration at the White House, The Greater Washington Board of Trade, The Fannie Mae Corporation, the Installation Ceremony for the 79th United States Attorney General John Ashcroft, and the Induction Ceremony Reception for the newly charged Board For The National African American History and Culture Museum at the White House. The Choir has also performed in several European countries, including Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Switzerland and The Netherlands. The Choir was recently awarded 1st place in the Sheila Stewart Youth Gospel Choir competition hosted by Radio One Stations, Praise 104.1 and 93.9 WKYS.

Founder-Director Gerald T. Smith composed seven of the eleven songs on the CD project and arranged the remaining selections. He says his composition, "I Believe", was chosen as the title cut because of its positive and inspirational message, which captures his prayer and hope for world peace among all people. He adds, “I truly believe we can live in peace, love and harmony with our brothers and sisters, even if we're from different countries, cultures, races, creeds, or colors.

Recorded at Remix Studios, "I Believe" features guest appearances by Deonte’ Gray from 7 Sons of Soul, who can be heard on “I Believe”; Ruth Lynch-Waldron, from London, England, who is composer and soloist of "Holy is the Lord God Almighty"; and Charmaine Swimpson, a vocalist with Kirk Franklin and soloist on "The Glory Belongs to God”.

The Choir gathers youth of various musical experiences to celebrate music and spirituality through the rich tradition of African American sacred music. For some, Y-N-P is their first foray into singing gospel music, and for most it is fast becoming a way of life. Mr. Smith says the most exciting experience associated with recording the CD was watching the enthusiasm, excitement on the faces of the young people as they consistently arrived at the studio each week. He says, "Even though there were long hours and hard work, they didn't complain, they were determined to give their best and complete the task."

GTS & Y-N-P objectives in releasing the CD are: 1) To reach the masses, especially the young people, and share the good news of the gospel; 2) To introduce and expose the community to this unique and gifted group of young people; and 3) To solicit and encourage other young people to audition and become a member of GTS&Y-N-P, to help build the Kingdom of God.

"I Believe" will be marketed and distributed through Amazon.com, CD Baby.com, CD Universe.com, Mt. Ennon Baptist Church Bookstore, Mt. Jezreel Baptist Church Bookstore and available after choir concerts.

Future plans include taking the choir on a European Tour in 2011, to share the group's ministry abroad and later traveling to Africa to minister is song as well. It is Founder-Director Smith's desire to have Y-N-P witness to other young people, youth groups, and youth choirs in local churches and communities about the joy, excitement and benefits of being involved in the arts. More importantly, GTS & Y-N-P desire to serve as living testimonies so others will know how meaningful and fulfilling it is to give one's gifts and talents back to God.

For further information, contact youthnpraise@aol.com.

(July 28, 2010)

Charles McPhatter Takes Real Life Issues And Pours Them Into His New Gospel Music Release, Life Songs

Independent Artist And Songwriter Also Tackles Learning Of His Own Adoption

Hailing from the Washington, D.C. area, Charles McPhatter is a gospel artist on a mission. His goal is to encourage and inspire through song wherever he goes. With a flair for contemporary gospel music, McPhatter excels as a singer and songwriter, evident on his November 2009 release of Life Songs. The independent release is a collection of moving songs written by McPhatter himself. Songs like "Trouble Don't Last" and "Never Gave Up On Me" not only showcase the artist's talent for songwriting, but each song can’t help but leave the listener elevated. Gospelflava.com says," Charles McPhatter's debut album is smooth and is sure to capture you with great vocals and uplifting lyrics."

Each track on Life Song focuses on a message that has personally helped to enrich Charles' life and has helped him through some of the toughest times of his life. Just last year, he learned, after decades of believing his mother and father were his birth parents, that they were actually his adoptive parents. Although the experience was reeling, it made Charles hold on even tighter to the Lord. It also gave him an opportunity to pour his experiences into his music. "'Never Gave Up On Me' is probably my favorite on Life Songs," says McPhatter. "After learning of the adoption, the song had even greater impact for me."

A member of First Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Dumfries, VA, where Rev. Dr. Luke E. Torain is pastor, Charles McPhatter has had the opportunity to record, sing or open up for award-winning artists such as Hezekiah Walker, Byron Cage, Kenny Lattimore, Maurette Brown Clark, Dottie Peoples, and Luther Barnes. He’s also worked with GRAMMY Award winner Delious Kennedy of All For One and Stellar Award nominee Dave "Davey Boy" Lindsey of Seven Sons of Soul. He's a former member of Devotion, a trio consisting of Stellar Award Nominee Lionel Green and A.J. Johnson. McPhatter also belonged to the Stellar Award nominated group, Christopher Page & The Dream Keeper's Ensemble, before stepping out on his own.

For more information on Charles McPhatter, log on to www.CharlesMcPhatter.com.

(May 7, 2010)

Author Dr. Cheryl Wilson Bridges Receives Glowing Reviews On Debut Writing "Levite Praise"

Praise & Worship Expert Shares A Biblical Revelation From God's Point Of View

Dr. Cheryl Wilson-Bridges is a worship leader who understands God's purpose in praise. By recently penning her first book entitled Levite Praise: God's Biblical Design for Praise and Worship, published by Creation House, a publishing arm of Strang Communications, Dr. Wilson-Bridges not only delighted in sharing what she learned about praise and worship through her experience as Minister of Music of The Community Praise Center in Alexandria, VA, but also through her studies while receiving the Master of Arts in Practical Theology and Worship Renewal from Regent University. Although the book covers a very familiar and popular topic, it looks at the subject from fresh eyes - God's perspective - something that makes this book on praise and worship uniquely different.

For the lover of God who desires to draw closer to the Lord, "Levite Praise" is the answer. The author believes that each and every reader will be blessed by what God has to say about His desire for worship. "I want all who read Levite Praise to get a better understanding of the praise power that will be given to you when you offer worship God's way," says Wilson-Bridges. "I would like you to feel God's presence overflowing in your heart and mind as you uncover the gems of scripture that outline the sacred structure of praise and worship music. When you take the time to dig deep and digest the principles and premises in each chapter, you will witness knowledge unfolding that will enrich your personal and corporate worship experiences and transform your life."

John Wheeler Boyd, Chairman of the Music Department at Southwestern Adventist University and reviewer for Best Practices in Adventist Ministry says about Levite Praise, "If one reads only the first chapter, one's time would be well spent. However, there is much more. In the third section of the book, Wilson-Bridges draws the parallels between the ministry of the Levites and the ministry of the worship leaders today. She includes twenty-one premises of Levite praise. If you desire worship to focus on the majesty and worthiness of God and not merely on the foibles of the sinner's daily troubles, then you need to read and contemplate deeply this worthy book." Hallerin Hilton Hill, Author and Radio & TV Host, says about Levite Praise, "Clarity brings power. This book gives those called to the Levite ministry the clarity they need to serve with excellence, humility, and purpose. Dr. Wilson-Bridges calls the called to walk in the true 'power' of their calling. Read this. Learn this. Live this."

Worship Leader, the premier publication for today's Levites, covered the book in their March/April 2010 issue. "If your idea of praise and worship is simply putting together a few songs with catchy lyrics accompanied by a rockin' band, Dr. Cheryl Wilson-Bridges suggests you reconsider that concept. In Levite Praise, she challenges worship leaders to recognize their God-ordained roles as musicianpriests who must understand what God desires from worship. The special worship leadership duties assigned to the Levites must be carried on by modern worship leaders. By learning God's purpose, plans, and desires of worship, today's Levites can become better equipped to lead worshipers in ways that truly glorify and please God based on His guidelines."

Not only is she the recipient of the 2009 Outstanding Minister of Music Award by the Guild of Adventist Musicians, but she's also a Bible Scholar and Leadership Expert, with a Doctorate degree in Strategic Leadership, also from Regent University. As many know, leadership is vital to success, both inside and outside the church and music arenas. This area of expertise adds a spiritual leadership dimension to worship music that is essential. A former member of the gospel girl group, Reconciled, who opened up for gospel icons such as The Clark Sisters, Take 6, Richard Smallwood, BeBe & CeCe Winans and Daryl Coley, Dr. Cheryl Wilson-Bridges is a lecturer and seminar facilitator on praise and worship. She has led workshops on praise and worship at Capitol Hill Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church in Washington, D.C., Kingsboro Temple SDA Church in Brooklyn, NY, Pleasant Street SDA Church in Worchester, MA, Croydon SDA Church in London, England, A Higher Calling Music & Worship Conference in London, England, the North England Conference Music Weekend, the United Christian Artists Association and many others.

For more information on Dr. Cheryl Wilson-Bridges, please go to www.levitepraise.com.

(April 3, 2010)

Maxwell, Gamble & Huff, Hezekiah Walker and Rev. Al Sharpton Honorees At National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters Awards Gala

R & B artist Maxwell, legendary songwriters and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame duo Gamble and Huff and Grammy award winner Hezekiah Walker are among the honorees at the 26th National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters Annual Communications Awards Dinner. The dinner will be held on Friday, March 19, 2010 at 7:00 pm at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, D.C.

Maxwell, Grammy award winning R & B artist, will be honored and receive the 2010 Entertainer of the Year Award. Gamble and Huff, creators of the Philadelphia Sound, will receive the Pioneer in Music Award. Walker, a world-famous gospel singer and founder and Bishop of the Love Fellowship Tabernacle - The Kingdom Church, will receive the Pioneer in Gospel Music Award. Civil rights activist and founder of the National Action Network, Rev. Al Sharpton will receive the Mickey Leland Public Service Award.

"2009 was a significant year for Blacks in the broadcast industry and throughout the entertainment arena-we experienced some major successes, but we lost some true heroes," said Jim Winston, NABOB Executive Director. "NABOB is proud for this opportunity to celebrate our achievements as we come together to build a stronger future for people of color in our industry."

This year's dinner will also feature a live all-star tribute to the late Teddy Pendergrass, featuring Peabo Bryson, Joe, and the Ray Chew Band; and a video tribute to Inner City Broadcasting founder, the late Percy Sutton. Each spring NABOB honors some of the most recognizable and celebrated names in entertainment, media and public service. 2009 honorees included U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, singer Chaka Khan, and actress and comedienne Mo'nique.

NABOB is the first and largest trade organization representing the interests of African-American owners of radio and television stations across the country. The association was organized in 1976 by a small group of African-American broadcasters who desired to establish a voice and a viable presence in the industry and to address specific concerns facing African-American broadcasters. Since its inception, NABOB has grown into a major trade organization representing the interests of more than 245 Black-owned commercial radio stations and 13 commercial television outlets.

For ticket or sponsorship information, contact DeSane Associates at 201-342-0909.

(March 14, 2010)

Vocal Trio, Sisters, Sing At Prestigious Washington D.C. Media Dinner

Daywind Records artist, Sisters, recently sang at a prestigious media dinner in Washington D.C. They were invited by syndicated columnist and Fox News analyst, Cal Thomas.

The opportunity came as a result of Thomas seeing a performance from Sisters on Facebook. The impact led him to offer the invitation to them to sing at the dinner. They were then asked to attend the National Prayer Breakfast the following morning. The President, Vice-President, and Prime Minister of Spain were in attendance.

Group member, Heather Ruppe Day, shared, “It was an incredible honor for Sisters to be a part of these events. We’ve seen many of these reporters and government representatives on television, so to stand before them and sing was very humbling. The prayer breakfast was equally amazing. We met some wonderful people and look forward to what God is going to bring about as a result of this opportunity.”

The video clip seen by Thomas can be found onYouTube.com:www.youtube.com/watch?v=FmUGekcTuLM

Sisters are currently in the studio, recording a brand new CD for Daywind Records. Their debut single, “Mercy Leads Us Home,” is impacting radio now.

For more information on Sisters, visitsistersmusic.org. For more information on all the talented artists at Daywind, visit daywindrecords.com.

Daywind Records is based in Hendersonville, TN, and is distributed worldwide through New Day Christian Distributors. In addition to Sisters, Daywind is home to such great artists as Austins Bridge, Karen Peck & New River, and Greater Vision, among others.

Photo (l to r): Kim Ruppe Lord, Cal Thomas (syndicated columnist and Fox News analyst), Heather Ruppe Day, and Valerie Ruppe

(February 27, 2010)

Award-winning Gospel Recording Artist TolumiDE Preps Dynamic New Project, My Love

Artist's Debut CD Delivers Strong, African-Inspired Cuts With Lead Single "My Love" Releasing Tuesday, January 26

TolumiDE (pronounced toe-LU-mee-day) is on the cusp of becoming a household name in gospel music. In a world of cookie-cutter artists, TolumiDE breaks barriers and liberates souls with the refreshing sound she brings to inspirational music. With her Nigerian and Canadian background, the recipient of the 2009 African Heritage Award for Outstanding African Artist and multiple 2006 Canadian Music Award Nominee is set to take the gospel music community by storm with her eclectic and riveting performances on her debut, full-length CD, My Love releasing April 2010. The project is a sonic collage of urban, contemporary gospel, reggae, funk, soul, and R&B music and of course, African rhythms. But for TolumiDE, music and its differing styles are simply a means to an end; for her, it's all about delivering the uplifting and eternal message of Christ through song.

Growing up in Nigeria, TolumiDE honed her musical gift as a youngster, but ultimately pursued her education in Graphic Arts. As a student at Toronto's York University, she found herself chasing her first love and ended up as a member of the multiple award-nominated group "Women Ah Run Tings". With a focus on Dancehall and reggae, the group opened up for artists such as Beenie Man receiving airplay on Much Music, Canada's #1 Video Music Channel. In 2008, she embarked on a solo career and released an EP entitled Specialty. The single, "Because You Know" was featured on the Green October - Volume I mix project and the song's video received airplay on MTV Base Africa, Channel O, Nigezie TV and a number of online media outlets.

My Love, TolumiDE's new release, brings her much joy and a sense of satisfaction. "Working on the CD was invigorating, motivating and inspiring for me," the artist shares. "The process of songwriting and going into the studio is like working on an art piece for me. I always come out astonished at the masterpiece unfolding thinking, 'Did I really write all that?'". She is also thrilled about the many amazing people she had the opportunity to work with during the recording of the project. "I am so blessed to work with some really talented producers and musicians and sound engineers - Blaise Tangelo, John Bashengezi, Ngouma Lokito, Tery Poindexter, Erik Dennis, Mark Baker, Alan Gaffere, The Ogunfiditimi Brothers and others. The process can be tiring (late and long recording sessions!!) at times, but loads of fun. I'm constantly visualizing who may enjoy and be inspired by the music and always get loads of encouragement from my family, friends and fans!!!," she shares.

The project is available on iTunes and through CDBaby.com. For more information about TolumiDE, log on to www.TolumiDEmusic.com.

(January 26, 2010)

HawKings Productions Inc. Presents Music Ministry Workshop 2010

HawKings Productions, Inc. will host their 15th Annual Music Ministry Workshop on April 15-18, 2010. Theme:“Reclaiming the Vision”. Guest Artist and Directors performing are: Professor Carlton Burgess (www.myspace.com/carltonburgess); Thommy Adams, Min. Isaiah Thomas (http://isaiahdthomas.com/); Betty B. Green, Iyona Blake (http://www.iyonablake.com); Mike McCoy (http://www.mikemccoy.info), and more! It is one of the largest non-profit interdenominational music workshops in Northern Virginia with registered delegates representing over 60 churches in the Washington, Maryland and Virginia metropolitan area, in addition to out-of-town churches.

Workshop sessions and rehearsal will begin on Thursday and Friday evenings (April 15 & 16) at 6:45 pm and again on Saturday morning (April 17) at 10:45 am. On Saturday afternoon, following the final rehearsal a Lite Fare Social will be hosted for the guest artists and registered delegates. The workshop will culminate with the Music Ministry Workshop Choirs in concert on Sunday, April 18, 2010.

HawKings Productions Music Ministry is a vision that God revealed to the Founder and CEO Alice B. Hawkins and brought to fruition in 1991. Knowing that she is only a vessel used by God to share the Gospel through music, she labors to take her Music Ministry conferences to people and congregations wherever God leads. She believes there is a divine message transmitted in music and this ministry is to win souls to Christ. She states “The 2010 Workshop is a return to the roots of special music ministry”.

HawKings Productions is blessed to have had such artists as clinicians and choir directors: V. Michael McKay; Darius Brooks, Myrna Summers, LaCresia Campbell, Donald Malloy, Professor Craig Hayes, Rodney Bryant, Professor James Hall, Angie Spivey, the late Timothy Wright and many other great artists.

The workshop extends the opportunity for everyone to receive training in all aspects of the musical religious climate – hymns, spirituals, anthems, gospel, and contemporary music. Specialty classes for adults, youth and children provide the proper training and instruction so that they can minister effectively and in supreme excellence! In addition, HawKings Productions strives to give local writers, musicians, and singers the opportunity to display their God gifted talents.

Alice Hawkins states that “God has blessed this ministry to host 14 annual workshops with an average of more than 60 churches participating as well as to have produced and promoted five church sponsored workshops.

From these efforts, a music ministry workshop choir was formed and this aggregation recorded their first CD released in April 2005. This CD featured local writers as well as the Dean-Director, Thommy Adams of Columbus, Ohio.

High and Lifted Up Is a Must Have CD!

“If you are looking for good church music, this CD is for you! From the first track, to the last, it is a pleasingly rich, compilation of great songs that choir directors can easily share and the novice Gospel lover will undoubtedly appreciate.

Opening up this 11-track worship service is a spirited song of adulation, “Let’s Rejoice!” written by Betty B. Green, it is a pleasant, up-tempo song that can be used anywhere from the processional, to the benediction. Rested on superb musicianship, this is one of those “easy goodies” that congregations seem to love! Immediately following is the soulful “Great Is,” written by Thommy Adams who through his past work with Ohio’s TETREC choir has turned out many memorable hits over the years. An awesome choral arranger and choir director, this one does not let his followers down. Reverend Rodney Teal presents “Awesome Grace,” an enjoyable melody accented with a syncopated rhythm that will have you “swaying in your space!” Adams comes back with “High & Lifted Up,” a mid-tempo song that emits a more urbanized feel without abandoning its traditional foundation. Pastor Marvin McCoy, a known area composer, is right on time with the heartfelt “The Sun Will Shine.” Rev. Teal and Betty B. Green come back with two more of the type of songs that welcomes praise, “Everything I Need You Are” and “We Give Thanks.” Vocalist Donnell Thompson masterfully handles both songs and his conviction is easily felt, encouraging uplifted hands throughout the building. For a little urban praise, Kendall King’s “We Bless Your Name” is a fine, thought-provoking piece that is sure to find favor on the ears of both the young and the not so young. Project producer Minister Mike McCoy penned the track “Joy Comes In The Morning.” Equipped with a message of reassurance, this one contains a cross-generational vamp that is gratifying, not offering too much, but just enough! Rounding off the project is Rev. Gregory Fletcher’s “Reach All the World” with Executive Producer Alice B Hawkins at the mike accompanied by the sultry vocals of her daughter Asia K. Paynes. This song is a perfect close to this wonderful project. A definite must for every music director’s collection. It’s time to build up that choir repertoire and there are 11 tracks here for you! All are good. Great ministry, great vocals, excellent music, and anointed songs. I can go on and on! It’s just that good!”

Submitted by Kenny Taylor

For more information about HPMM, check out: www.hawkingsproductionsinc.com. Or contact: HawKings Productions, P.O. Box 6586, Arlington, VA 22206 / 703.534.6651.

(January 25, 2010)

Virginia Worship Leader Tifani Wilson Voted The 2009 Independent Gospel Musiq Female Vocalist Of The Year

Christian Songwriter and Vocalist Tifani Wilson releases Inspirational Love Songs CD

Christian songwriter and vocalist Tifani Wilson was voted the recipient of the 2009 Independent Gospel Musiq Awards Female Vocalist of the Year Award on Saturday, Nov 14 at a spirit filled ceremony in Woodbridge, Va. The Fourth Annual awards event is sponsored by the Musiq 4 Life Organization/IGMA who pays tribute to the spirit and resiliency of a people strengthened by a spiritual foundation and deeply enriched by its gospel heritage. The IGMA's mission is to recognize those whom in the last year made important contributions to the art of recorded gospel music. Tifani was a performer at this year's IGMA's and also shared an honor as friend Rafeal Ross received the award for Praise and Worship Song of the Year for "Praise Awaits" to which Tifani penned and vocally produced. "Praise Awaits" will be featured on Ross' highly anticipated New Creation Live to be released in January 2010.

Tifani Wilson is Minister of Music at Grace Covenant Church in Chantilly, VA. She has been leading worship for ten years and in that time has had the privilege to learn from and serve with Israel and New Breed, Kevin LeVar and One Sound, Tyrone Powell and Team Judah, Kevin Singleton and Ricardo Sanchez. "My life is all about ministering to the hearts of people, seeing them healed, whole and right with God," says Tifani. Now, Tifani is positioning and stepping out as one of the most sought after Christian songwriters and recognized as a rising new vocal talent. Her pure soothing tone and amazing ability to capture the essence of worship are catapulting her into the genre's leading ladies vocalist line up.

Tifani's debut solo project, In Love, tells the real life love stories of everyday people just like you. With the help of producer, Tyrone Powell, she reveals a musical story of adoration, hope and cherished never ending love. Tifani hopes that these songs will remind of the faithfulness of God and compel all to fall deeper IN LOVE with Him. "True and undefiled love first comes from the One who loved us before we even loved ourselves, Jesus Christ," Tifani proclaims. "If you don't know His love, you're missing out.  In Love, which also includes performance tracks, is available at all digital music outlets now.

(November 20, 2009)

U.S. Capitol Embraced Phillip Carter At Gospel Music Heritage Month Initiative

On Tuesday, September 15th national recording artist Phillip Carter and vocal ensemble Sounds Of Victory were embraced by many as they serenaded a select crowd at the U.S. Capitol in recognition of Gospel Music Heritage Month.

For the second consecutive year, Gospel Music Channel (GMC) joined with the United States Senate and the House of Representatives to create the "National Gospel Music Heritage Month" initiative. The dual legislation passed by the House and the Senate designated September 2009 as "Gospel Music Heritage Month," honoring gospel music for its valuable and long-standing contributions to American culture.

Described as a song that reminds everyone who's still in control, He's God"--the personal musical offering that includes Phillip's awesome piano playing from their new CD Songs From The Storm--was well-received.

"Performing at the Capitol was a blast and a humbling experience to be a part of a special occasion such as Gospel Music Heritage Month," said Carter. "Meeting Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee was an experience. She's an aggressive Congresswoman who knows how to get things done and I greatly respect her for her efforts to support Gospel Music."

The initiative was created by GMC; joining GMC as sponsors of "Gospel Music Heritage Month" are The Recording Academy, the Gospel Music Association (GMA), the Gospel Music Workshop of America (GMWA) and The Stellar Awards.

About Gospel Music Channel

Gospel Music Channel is the fastest-growing network in television and can be seen in more than 45 million homes on various cable systems around the country and on DIRECTV on channel 338.

For more information about Phillip Carter and Sounds Of Victory, please visitwww.sovministries.com.

(September 16, 2009)

Andrea R. Williams, Former GRAMMY Awards Employee, Celebrates Three Years After "Step Of Faith" Business Launch

Publicist Expands Business To Include Artist Management, Event Management & Booking

Gospel music industry insider, Andrea R. Williams, recently celebrated three years since leaving her full-time job and launching the publicity division of her company. In August 2006, she left her prestigious job at the GRAMMY Awards and took Tehillah Enterprises, a company she started in 1999, and launched it full-time. "It was definitely a huge step of faith for me," says Williams. "I have always had a passion to promote gospel music and its artists and God has given me favor with Tehillah Enterprises."

Since August 2006, Williams has represented clients like award-winning producer Steven Ford, praise and worship artist Alvin Slaughter, famed singer and Stellar Award winner DeWayne Woods, 2009 Stellar Award nominee Terrell Hunt and Gospel Jazz artist and producer Terrence Richburg. Developing comprehensive public relations campaigns for gospel artists and Christian authors is one of the company's fortes. Although much of her company's mission has been devoted to publicity, Tehillah Enterprises will soon be venturing into artist management and booking. With the company's staff experience in gospel music, having a more active role in the direction of an artist's career is clearly the next step for the company. New artists being added to Tehillah Enterprises' roster will be announced soon.

In addition, Tehillah Enterprises will be branching out into event management. The company organized its first gospel music concert, in conjunction with the U.S. Army Entertainment Division, last year. The event, held at Fort Belvoir, VA, included gospel artists CeCe Winans, Byron Cage and the 7 Sons of Soul. Tehillah Enterprises will be organizing more gospel music and Christian events in the near future.

Williams is no stranger to the music industry. Employed for 8 years with the GRAMMY Awards, she was part of the original staff of the D.C. Chapter of the GRAMMY Awards, known as The Recording Academy. During her tenure, she brought gospel icons like Richard Smallwood, Donald Lawrence, Tonex, Kim Burrell, Tramaine Hawkins, and many others on board as members (and board members) of The Recording Academy. She was also instrumental in the Academy's Salute To Gospel Music series which included artists like Kirk Franklin, Donnie McClurkin, CeCe Winans, Shirley Caesar and Smokie Norful.

Outside of the Academy, Williams has been named a "Mover & Shaker" in the 2004 - 2009 editions of the Gospel Music Industry Round-up, known as the "Bible of the Gospel Music Industry". She's a former writer for online and written publications such as Gospelcity.com, Charisma Magazine, and Gospel Today Magazine, to name a few. Also, as a writer, she's penned bios for artists like Marvin Sapp, Byron Cage, Dr. Bobby Jones, Vickie Winans, Jonathan Butler, Tramaine Hawkins, Trin-i-tee 5:7, Kenny Lattimore & Chante' Moore, and many others.

Williams' company, Tehillah Enterprises, is also the creator of The Tehillah Report, an e-zine reaching thousands highlighting the genre of praise and worship, the D.C. Gospel News Update e-zine, focusing on what's going on in gospel music in the Nation's Capital, and its complimentary website, DCGospelNewsUpdate.com. Williams truly has a goal of blessing the gospel music community. "I am thankful that God allowed me to realize my dream," says the President of Tehillah Enterprises. "I am excited to see what God has in store next." For more information about Tehillah Enterprises, log on to www.TehillahEnterprisesPR.com.

(September 9, 2009)

Watch Your Favorite Washington, D.C. Church Choir Perform Live At Verizon Center

Tickets On Sale Today For Verizon Wireless' How Sweet the Sound

This summer, Gospel music fans can purchase tickets to watch the top church choirs from the Washington, D.C.-area compete in the regional round of How Sweet the Sound presented by Verizon Wireless. The national search for "The Best Church Choir in America" makes its stop in Washington, D.C. at Verizon Center on Thursday, September 24, 2009.

Choirs participating in the Washington, D.C. event will compete for the title of best choir in Washington, D.C. and cash prizes of up to $15,000. The winning choir from the Washington, D.C. performance will also have an opportunity to represent Washington, D.C. in the How Sweet the Sound grand finale event. Tickets to the concert at Verizon Center are $7 for floor seats and $5 for lower- and upper-tier seats.

For more information on purchasing tickets, visit www.HowSweetTheSound.com or visit the Web site for Verizon Center at www.verizoncenter.com.

2009 How Sweet the Sound Washington, D.C. Finalists

After reviewing all of the audition tapes submitted by church choirs around the city, the top church choirs were selected by a panel of judges which included Matt Anderson from WPRS-FM and Ted Winn, Gospel music professional, to compete in the concert in Washington, D.C.:

Few Voices Category:

The SNC Chorale, Southern Baptist Church Praise and Worship Center

BRYDGES, BRYDGES, Inc.

Remanufactured Souls, The Soul Factory Church

Little Mt. Zion Mass Choir, Little Mt. Zion Church of God

 

Many Voices Category:

The Remnant Concert Choir, Mt Ararat Baptist Church

Aktiv Gospel Chorale, The Assemblies of the Emmanel Church

The Rejoice Choir, Ebenezer A.M.E. Church

The Sanctuary Choir, Greater Mount Calvary Holy Church

Details about How Sweet the Sound, including schedules, judging criteria and the official event rules are available online at www.HowSweetTheSound.com.

(September 2, 2009)

Gospel Recording Artist Byron Cage Headlines National Celebration Of September As Gospel Music Heritage Month

Gospel Recording Artist Byron Cage will be the headliner for the National Gospel Music Heritage Month Celebration at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (Washington, DC) during their Open House Arts Festival on Saturday, September 12, 2009. Gospel Music Advocate Carl Davis has been appointed to serve as chair of the event. "It is indeed an honor to pay homage to the tradition of praising the Lord through song," said Davis. Churches and other civic organizations are encouraged to celebrate September as Gospel Music Heritage Month.

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas) and Senator Blanche Lincoln (D-Arkansas) offered a resolution designating September as Gospel Music Heritage Month. Davis stated that this first National Celebration in honor of Gospel Music Heritage Month concert is free and open to the public. "Growing up listening to the sounds of Thomas Dorsey and Mahalia Jackson, I will certainly shout and make a joyful noise unto God for the passing of this legislation." The concert will start at 6:00 PM in the Concert Hall.

Sheila Jackson Lee, member of Congress from the 18th Congressional District (Texas) said, "I have worked in collaboration with Senator Blanche Lincoln, Gospel Music Advocate Carl Davis, the Smithsonian Institution, Gospel Music Workshop of America, Gospel Music Channel, Gospel Music Association and The GRAMMYs to designate September of 2009 as "Gospel Music Heritage Month." I extend my gratitude and appreciation to these gracious individuals and insightful organizations who had the vision and foresight needed to recognize the importance of gospel music to modern culture and to celebrate its rich history."

Davis stated, there also will be a Houston Celebration of Gospel Music Heritage Month on September 18, 2009 at 7:30 P.M. at Grace Community Church 14505 Gulf Freeeway Houston, Texas 77034 with the Gospel Music Heritage Mass Choir featuring Guest Minister of Music Dr. Theola Booker and produced by Ernest Walker of Walker Entertainment. They will tell the story of gospel music through song and word.

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and Senator Blanche Lincoln also expend special thanks to Jazzy Jordan of Verity Gospel Music Group and Shiba Haley of Magahony Entertainment and Garth Ross of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts for their strong support of Gospel Music Heritage Month.

(September 2, 2009)

Adventist Soup Kitchen Receives �Extreme Makeover� Grant

The soup kitchen at First Adventist Church's in Washington, D.C., recently received a $5,000 grant from ABC's "Extreme Makeover" broadcast. The grant, which was bestowed on nonprofit community service organizations, was a boon to the kitchen that serves between 75 and 100 people each week. The kitchen serves lunch three days a week and breakfast on Sundays. They generally rely on donations and local government grants. "With the economic changes in our country, the grants are paying slowly this year, giving has been reduced, and the food banks have pulled back on donations,"explains Marcia Fraser-Foster, who directs the church's Adventist Community Services. "So the church has had to temporarily pick up a larger burden of the kitchen's costs.  We were overwhelmed with this gift," says Lord Waters, director of operations for community outreach. "It's so good to get this grant. The Lord has really blessed us."

Click here for the whole article.

(September 2, 2009)

ASON And Deitrick Haddon To Perform At Verizon Center

On July 18, Washington, DC Based Gospel Rapper ASON Will Perform with Gospel Recording Sensation Deitrick Haddon in a Special Post-Game Concert for "Gospel Night with the Mystics"

ASON has been secured to be the first part of the gospel concert featuring Deitrick Haddon immediately after the Washington Mystics host the New York Liberty for a regular season WNBA game. On this special night themed "Gospel Night with the Mystics" the crowd will be heavily populated with youth groups and gospel lovers from all over the metro area. To learn more or purchase tickets, visit www.reachmovement.net/asonlanding.html. As a special offer from Toe 2 Toe Records, every 25th person to become a fan of ASON on facebook or Reverbnation.com will win a FREE ticket to this event.

2009 has already been a good year for ASON, also a youth pastor and stellar award nominee. After spending two years away from the music industry to focus on his youth ministry in Lanham, MD, he is now being invited to perform several times a week, mostly in the tri-state area. "We just finished shooting his second video this month," says Ms. Chris, VP of Marketing for Toe 2 Toe Records, "both videos will be released this Fall to promote his album due out Spring 2010."

The first music video scheduled for release is the rap ballad "Gotta Say Thank You" which features ASON's story telling abilities on a 6/8 time track with a sped up sample of Jeff Majors. Following that will be the dance igniting "Take it Back"over the production of B Heat (Beyonce, 50 Cent). Both songs can be downloaded for FREE at www.bigsonny.com.

The July 18th concert at the Verizon Center will feature video effects, singers, dancers, and actors. ASON has been known to include showmanship in his ministry.

About ASON:

ASON (a.k.a. Bigsonny a.k.a. Sonnyman) is a rapper and youth speaker with pronounced song writing talent, skillful delivery, and a knack for slipping uplifting messages in his catchy music. His professional live show has earned him over 350 invitations to perform since 2004. He has shared the stage with Ciara, Mary Mary, Fred Hammond, and many others.

A successful independent label owner (Toe 2 Toe Records), ASON's first 3 albums have sold over 42,000 copies and song downloads. His next release will be a hip-hop/R&B styled praise and worship offering collaborating with the golden voiced Christy LOVE due Spring 2010!

(July 8, 2009)

Dr. Suzan Johnson-Cook Unveils Lunchtime "Spiritual Stimulus Package" to Washington, DC Residents

World-Renowned Speaker, Former Presidential Spiritual Advisor, Author and Minister Lifts Spirits, Builds Faith and Offers Hope with Perfect Lunch Hour "Pick Me Up" at Mt. Vernon Place United Methodist Church

Obviously, when we think of lunchtime, we think of a time when we can relax and feed our bodies. Well Dr. Suzan Johnson-Cook, World-Renowned speaker, author, entrepreneur and former Clinton Spiritual advisor challenges you to take 30 minutes of your lunch hour and feed your spirit and your soul. Dubbed "Billy Graham and Oprah rolled into one", by The New York Times, Dr. Sujay, as she's affectionately known says, "The purpose of this challenge is to inspire people to believe that they are more than their circumstances, to intentionally take their eyes off of their problems and place them on God; the ONLY one who can change their current situation and give them unexplainable peace in these turbulent times".

Every Tuesday from 12:15-12:45pm she will host Wonderful Washington Worship in Washington, D.C. at Mt. Vernon Place United Methodist Church at 900 Massachusetts Ave. at 9th Street NW, located across from the Convention Center, in the heart of the Nation's Capitol from June 16th to July 27th. After participating in President Barack Obama's National Day of Prayeron his first day in office, Dr. Sujay became inspired to take President Obama's mantra of instilling hope back into the nation very seriously.

Since aggressively stepping up to the "spiritual" plate during the 911 attacks in 2001, serving as the only NYPD Chaplain's until now, Dr. Sujay has been called, "America's Chaplain" . She firmly believes that,"We are mind, body and spirit which means it's time to put the stress of the current economic decline aside and get back to the basics of life - which is simply getting back in touch with your God, His wonderful promises and purpose for our lives."

After successfully, holding services in New York City on Wall Street to standing room crowds only, Dr. Sujay also recently completed 13 weeks of services on the stage of the world famous Apollo Theatre in Harlem called "Harlem Hallelujah", attended by former President Clinton and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, as well as world leaders, namely Rev. Jesse Jackson, Congressman Charles Rangel, Congressman Ed Towns and Senator Charles Shulmer and inter-ethnic groups from Japan, Africa, and other countries.

From Wall Street to Pennsylvania Ave, from the Financial Capital to the Nation's Capital, Dr. Sujay's goal is to have the half-hour weekly lunchtime services revive the soul of our country and bring inspiration to our nation.

It's the perfect lunch hour pick me up "Spiritual Stimulus Package" -  a half-hour of POWER, and you won't be late getting back to work! It's an experience that will help make you feel good about yourself, your life, and your faith.

About Dr. Suzan Johnson-Cook aka "Dr. Sujay":

Dr. Sujay is a world-renowned minister, speaker, entrepreneur and author who has worked with former President Bill Clinton and other politicians and world leaders. As President of Charisma Speakers, a full communications support firm, she also offers inspirational life coaching at colleges, churches, conventions, conferences, and corporations and preparation for public speaking and life. Feel Free to log on to: www.drsujay.com for more information, updates, speaker bios, photo gallery, consulting services, books etc.

(June 12, 2009)