Welcome to Gospel Spotlight

Kierra Sheard debuts at #1 again, Troy Sneed passes, Tye Tribbett drops “We Gon’ Be Alright,” GoDigiPath to launch The Clark Sisters Biopic album, Pastor Jamal Bryant slammed Georgia's governor, Brent Jones' drops song "Fear & Faith Can't Live Together", Brent Jones teams up with Childish Gambino, Ben Tankard drops "Passionfruit," Tasha Cobbs Leonard joined We The Kingdom on “Holy Water,” Lecrae to drop "Set It Free," Mali Music and Kierra Sheard drops new music, LECRAE "I'LL FIND YOU" FT TORI KELLY GOES PLATINUM! Donnie McClurkin is our Artist in the Spotlight.(See Spotlight page) - - - Listen to Interviews with Staci Brown, Ricky Dillard, Gene Moore, Jermaine Dolly, Trilogy and more. The Gospel Spotlights Todd Dulaney, YOUR INSIDE SOURCE FOR THE HOTTEST GOSPEL MUSIC AND NEWS! Shinning It's Light On The Gospel Music World...The Gospel Spotlight!


Staci Brown Audio Interview	Ricky Dillard Audio Interview	Album Of The Month The Return	Trilogy Audio Interview	Jermaine Dolly Audio Interview	Gene Moore Audio Interview

Welcome to Gospel-Spotlight.com!!
GS NEWS ROOM, #1 FIRST WITH NEWS
April 29, 2020 UPDATE!!... Troy Sneed passes...... Kierra Sheard debuts at #1 with "Kierra" ...... Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins Presents The Good News........ April 29, 2020 UPDATE!!...Brent Jones' hit song "Fear & Faith Can't Live Together".....
News News News News News News News News News ______________________________________ Blair Whitlow musical roots are grounded in gospel music, but her exposure to the genres of Jazz, R&B, and Pop have also helped to shape her musical expression. Blair is a Praise and Worship leader who has led worship all over the city of Nashville, TN and across the United States. She served as worship leader for 10 years at Cathedral of Praise Church of God In Christ Church in Nashville. Blair has released her single "Jesus Is Lord (JIL)", which is part of a series of worship songs called THE WONDER series. This musical series is meant to provoke thought behind the wonder of Christ, his love for us and the Father that carried him to the cross, and his predominant Lordship over all things. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3Ldq-rdKCA&feature=youtu.be Catch The Virtual Love Tour Friday at 8 PM with Carl Brister : Facebook.com/GrownFolkMusic1 Kelontae Gavindrops new song "Hold Me Close" https://www.dropbox.com/s/vgpjtmyc1q4bza1/HOLD%20ME%20CLOSE%20%28radio%20edit%29%203.wav?dl=0 Christian hip-hop artist Lecrae encouraged Christians to “draw near to God” in the midst of the distress and anxiety of the COVID-19 pandemic, offering the reminder that believers have an “answer for the hopelessness and the worthlessness” the world is currently experiencing. “I think a lot of times distress causes us to draw near to God,” the Grammy Award-winning rapper recently told host Gabe Lyons during the Q 2020 Virtual Summit, an annual event that equips Christian leaders to thoughtfully engage culture from a Christian worldview. The gospel Spotlight mourns the passing of Troy Sneed, the Grammy® Award nominated music entrepreneur known for Top gospel radio hits such as “My Heart Says Yes” and “Worked It Out,” passed away Monday, April 27th at 12:24 AM EST of complications of COVID-19 at a Jacksonville, FL hospital. He was 52 years old. Troy Sneed has been a friend of The Gospel Spotlight for years. We have interviewed Brother Troy at least three (3) times. Hear Troy Sneed In His Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/troy_sneed.htm When Cade Thompson stepped into the studio to record the song "Provider" – his debut Red Street Records single release – he had no clue just how powerful and timely the song would prove to be. Times were most definitely different then – no one had even heard of COVID-19/ Coronavirus, much less knew the impact it would have on our daily lives. As the pandemic closed the economy and people were told to stay home, immediately and drastically changing everyday life, Cade's song had just been released and started to climb the radio charts. Almost immediately, listeners grasped hold of the lyrics to the song, reminding people to look to God, the ultimate provider for our lives. https://www.dropbox.com/s/i5832eft4n9kb3c/providerCover.jpg?dl=0 (GSN) Today, GRAMMY® and Stellar Award-winning artist, actress and entrepreneur, Kierra Sheard’s latest album KIERRA debuted at #1 on the Top Gospel Album’s chart, #1 on the Top Christian/Gospel albums chart, and #2 on the Top 200 Christian & Gospel Consumption chart. Released on April 17th, KIERRA has knocked the longstanding #1 Jesus Is King out of the top position, and has garnered more than 3 million streams in its first week. Hear Kierra Sheard In Her Own Words....https://www.gospel-spotlight.com/kierra_kiki_sheard_intvw.htm. iOne Digital is excited to announce the launch of #TheBlackBallot, a new online space that features topical and hot button election-related issues. Readers will experience op-eds from both favorite and new political voices, critical analysis of our community's needs and inter-generational news coverage. #TheBlackBallot will serve as a resource for consumers looking for political content from varied Black perspectives. NewsOne.com. "What's clear to me is that Morehouse would endanger its students, faculty and staff by resuming in-person instruction while the pandemic still poses a serious threat. We will not take that risk. Our decision is one that prioritizes the health and welfare of our campus community -- and not one that will not be influenced by politics." David A. Thomas, Ph.D., President, Morehouse College. Featured in the new DreamWorks blockbuster movie “Trolls World Tour” (starring Justin Timberlake, Anna Kendrick & The Rock), features on rap superstar Childish Gambino's new critically-acclaimed album "3.15.20", and a recent song collaboration with pop star Ariana Grande, 2020 is turning into quite the year for Brent Jones! A singer/songwriter extraordinaire who's pioneering work with his urban group Brent Jones & T.P. Mobb set the stage for Kirk Franklin and urban contemporary gospel, JDI artist Brent Jones' new CD "Nothing Else Matters" is the highly anticipated follow-up to "Open Your Mouth and Say Something", which earned widespread critical acclaim and multiple award nominations including the 2019 Dove Award and 2019 Stellar Award. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SyTg7RIn-X8 Last October, industrious filmmaker Tyler Perry opened his sprawling and state-of-the-art enhanced production studios in Atlanta, Georgia. But now, after almost two months of a complete standstill in production due to the coronavirus pandemic, Perry, 50, is getting creative in his approach to eventually reopen the 330-acre studio complex. Perry is currently investigating and seeking approval for a novel and unique strategy to begin shooting his own TV shows again, which would see the cast and crew of each production check in on the first day to get tested for the virus, and those found to be negative would then be invited to live on-site for the entire duration of the shoot, reports TMZ. Hamilton Bohannon, one of the great musicians of the disco era, died Friday. He was 78. Bohannon played the drums for Stevie Wonder in 1964, and that gig led him to getting hired as a bandleader by Motown Records. His group Bohannon & The Motown Sound toured with several stars, including Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, Diana Ross and the Supremes, the Temptations and the Four Tops. Eventually, he began a solo career and released his debut album “Stop & Go” in 1973. “Foot Stompin Music,”was his biggest hit. During this time of panic and confusion, some are turning to religion to help them understand the world’s woes. DMX is no exception. The rapper took to Instagram Live, where he hosted a virtual Bible study. During Friday’s session, X decided to help people come to terms with the coronavirus pandemic by reading several scriptures from the Bible. Fans and followers were moved by X’s enthusiastic reading of Ecclesiastes, leading them to show their appreciation on the timeline. https://twitter.com/i/status/1253837874799226882 Deborah Gatewood had two years to go before she could retire from a Detroit hospital. But Gatewood, a phlebotomist for three decades, will never celebrate that milestone. She died April 17 from symptoms related to the coronavirus. Her daughter said that prior to her mother’s death, she was denied a coronavirus test four times by her employer, Beaumont Hospital, Farmington Hills. NBC News reached out to Beaumont multiple times for comment, but did not hear back. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Last week, the Wilsons accepted the #ALLINCHALLENGE, a challenge to come together and feed the hungry during the COVID-19 pandemic. Russell Wilson and Ciara offered a private jet and dinner at their favorite restaurant with 100% of the money raised through this Game/Auction going directly to Feeding America, Meals On Wheels, World Central Kitchen and No Kid Hungry. https://twitter.com/i/status/1250477095811080192 Global coronavirus deaths surpassed 200,000 on Saturday, according to Johns Hopkins University researchers. There are now at least 201,502 COVID-related deaths reported in the world. There are currently more than 2.8 million confirmed COVID cases around the globe, with the United States nearing the 1 million mark as of Saturday, with more than 924,000 confirmed instances of the novel virus. The U.S. also makes up around one-quarter of the global deaths with at least 53,275 as of Saturday. Gospel music pioneer Kirk Franklin and a few of his celebrity friends kicked off BET’s “Saving Our Selves” relief concert this week by performing a new rendition of his gospel hit, “I Smile.” Franklin recruited singers Kelly Price, Fantasia, and Tyrese, along with gospel singers Jonathan McReynolds, Melvin Crispell III, and Le’Andria Johnson to kick off the BET special. https://youtu.be/dedqPQYhskM There’s only one number that West cares about. A billion, as in dollars. And he cares a lot. (“I showed them a $890 million receipt, and they still didn’t say ‘billionaire,’” he told an industry panel). The Forbes annual billionaires list appeared earlier this month, again with West absent—still no documentation, and now a pandemic to boot—West again reacted with hurt and venom. “You know what you’re doing,” he texted. “You’re toying with me and I’m not finna lye [sic] down and take it anymore in Jesus name.” At one point, he texted that Forbes was “purposely a part of a group of media” that was trying to suppress his self-made narrative because of his race. That sister-in-law Kylie Jenner did make the list also clearly stuck in his craw. Yesterday, a breakthrough: West directed his team to provide what we feel is an authentic numeric look into Kanye, Inc. and it does confirm, based on our estimates, that his stake in Yeezy indeed makes him a billionaire. A bit over $1 billion, actually. Yeezy is a complicated asset. West owns 100% of it. But it’s functionally tied, at least for five-plus years based on the documents we saw, to Adidas, which produces, markets and distributes the shoes. Last year, sources projected the shoes would finish 2019 with revenue north of $1.5 billion (Adidas would not comment then, or now)—per recent conversations and internal documents, it is believed the final revenue number ended up closer to $1.3 billion. In a surprise move, the Philadelphia Eagles selected Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Jalen Hurts in the second round of the NFL draft on Friday. Meanwhile, the Eagles are locked into quarterback Carson Wentz, having just handed him a four-year, $128 million extension in June. CeeDee Lamb said he did not know where he would fall in the first round of the NFL draft, but the Dallas Cowboys certainly never expected him to be available with the 17th overall pick. With an opportunity too good to pass up, the Cowboys selected the Oklahoma wide receiver in Thursday’s first round, marking the first time they took a receiver in the top round since Dez Bryant in 2010. Tye Tribbett has just dropped his brand new single, “We Gon’ Be Alright,” and it is our song in The Gospel Spotlight!!! With a nod to Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright,” the new song is an on-time follow-up to Tye’s last hit, “Work It Out.” Blast your speakers, then get ready to dance and shout it loud—we gon’ be alright!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0TaADfUxPw&utm_campaign=45691_MOTG%204.24_231797_US&utm_source=dotmailer&utm_medium=email "Everything Will Be Alright" written by Pastor David Wright, from the CD release "Just As I Am" by Geneatha Wright. Wife, Mother, First Lady, Mentor and Gospel Artist. Geneatha better know as Gee proves she can do just about anything she puts her mind to. She transcends from Victim to Victorious and it is evident in her music. She says "I did not write any of the songs on my first project; however my husband wrote this song for me during the time that I lost my Dad and it inspires me to the depth of my soul. https://www.dropbox.com/s/xy6a4ozx1eoy06u/Everything%20Will%20Be%20Alright%20by%20Geneatha%20Wright...USHM213655554%20Written%20by%20John%20David%20Wright.%20Pub.DW3Music.ASCAP..mp3?dl=0 Andrea Rene' Williams' "Count It As Done" is our Song in The Gospel Spotlight!!! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_DQqkhX01g&feature=youtu.be Jace Prescott, the older brother of Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott, died Thursday, the team said. He was 31. The Cowboys confirmed the older Prescott’s death in a brief statement. There was no information on how or where Jace Prescott died. The older Prescott was an offensive lineman a decade ago at Northwestern State in Louisiana, where the Prescott brothers Tad, Jace and Dak grew up. Jace Prescott played three seasons at Northwestern State, starting all 11 games in his final season in 2010. Dak Prescott appeared in a Campbell’s Chunky Soup commercial with his two brothers that aired last season. Their mother, Peggy Prescott, died of colon cancer in 2013. Retired Los Angeles Dodgers broadcaster Vin Scully has been hospitalized after falling at his Los Angeles-area home. The team says the 92-year-old fell Tuesday and was taken to the hospital for observation. Scully is resting comfortably and is expected to be released soon. “I won’t be doing anymore head-first sliding,” he said in a quote posted on the team’s Twitter account. “I never liked it.” Scully retired after the 2016 season, ending a career in which he called Dodgers games for 67 years. GRAMMY-nominated, multi-Stellar Award winner, author and philanthropist Jonathan McReynolds’ releases his latest effort, PEOPLE. PEOPLE doubles as a full-length visual album - the first for the genre of gospel music. PEOPLE boast incredible collaborations with Mali Music, The Walls Group and Pastor Mike Todd and is available now wherever music is sold and streamed at all major digital outlets. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5w0QlSp7oc&feature=youtu.be Televangelist Jim Bakker said he’s been cut off by credit card companies after he was accused of selling a fake coronavirus cure and asked viewers to send cash or checks or he may have to file for bankruptcy. “You can’t use credit cards if you do give to our ministry at this time because there’s a situation,” Bakker said on his show. He told viewers that the government said, “’You sold products that we didn’t approve of,’ but that’s not what we did.” Bakker was criticized for selling his “Silver Solution” as a cure for COVID-19 in February and the state of Missouri sued the televangelist last month, accusing him of lying to consumers. New York’s attorney general also sent a cease and desist letter to Bakker demanding he stop marketing the fake cure. Now, Bakker and his wife and co-host Lori Bakker say their ministry could face bankruptcy. “SOS, save our station, save our ship, help us stay on the air,” he said this week. “We’re asking people to give an offering, and we need a miracle.” Joe Burrow became the first overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft Thursday night. Burrow is projected to sign a four-year $36.2 million contract with the Bengals, raking in just around $6.6 million in his rookie year. If projections are correct, Burrow will be earning about $2 million more than last year’s first pick, Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray. The Washington Redskins had the No. 2 overall pick. The Redskins selected Ohio State defensive end Chase Young. The Miami Dolphins selected Alabama’s Tua Tagovailoa with the No. 5 pick and the Los Angeles Chargers selected Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert with the No. 6 pick in the 2020 NFL draft. CLEO TV'S JUST EATS WITH CHEF JJ WELCOMES GOSPEL STARS TRAVIS GREENE AND KIERRA SHEARD FOR A SEAFOOD FEAST ON SATURDAY, APRIL 25 AT 12 P.M. ET/11C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2lmZcC2ZzUc&feature=youtu.be ALL THINGS ADRIENNE WITH ADRIENNE HOUGHTON SHARES TOP FASHION LIFESAVERS ON SATURDAY, APRIL 25 AT 1 P.M. ET/12C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRng0D3IiOI&feature=youtu.be HEART OF THE BATTER WITH JORDIN SPARKS PREMIERES ON SATURDAY, MAY 9 AT 1 P.M. ET/12C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ork0eVCma30&feature=youtu.be GoDigiPath, LLC, a global digital aggregator and physical distributor, is celebrating the success of its distribution client Relevé Entertainment’s successful launch of The First Ladies Of Gospel: The Clark Sisters Biopic Soundtrack? – the audio companion to the recent Lifetime TV original movie, The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel. The thirteen-track album earned over 521,000 first week streams and debuted at No. 8 on the Top Gospel Albums Chart. Grammy® winner Donald Lawrence produced the soundtrack for Quiet Water Entertainment. Music producer Clive Davis is working with the estate of late singer Whitney Houston for the biopic I Wanna Dance With Somebody. Anthony McCarten, the writer behind the Queen biopic Bohemian Rhapsody, will pen the screenplay, while Stella Meghie, who was behind the Issa Rae romance The Photograph, will direct. Pat Houston will produce the movie on behalf of the Houston Estate, along with Davis, Primary Wave Music’s Larry Mestel, Denis O’Sullivan and McCarten. With the backing of the estate, I Wanna Dance With Somebody will be able to utilize Houston’s music catalog. The movie does not yet have distribution. Two-time Grammy award winner and multi-platinum selling artist Lauren Daigle has joined the likes of Lin-Manuel Miranda and for KING & COUNTRY to release Zoom performances of her music. Her latest dedication encourages healthcare professionals who are risking their lives treating patients with COVID-19. Daigle took to Instagram with a social distancing dedication of her song “Your Wings,” off of her hit album, Look Up Child. https://www.instagram.com/tv/B_Qd5ROgnLJ/?utm_source=ig_embed Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson are ready for a made-for-TV rematch at a time when fans are craving live action. Turner Sports says quarterbacks Tom Brady and Peyton Manning will join them for a two-on-two match sometime in May. Missing from the announcement were such details as when and where the match would be played, except that tournament organizers would work with government and health officials to meet safety and health standards.Turner said all donations and fundraising from “The Match: Champions for Charity” would benefit relief efforts for the COVID-19 pandemic. Artist and songwriter Shanta Atkins has released her highly anticipated single "Made Up My Mind". Most may know her as the younger sister to the Grammy Award winning Gospel duo "Mary Mary". Shanta's experience as recording artist has her prepped to now blaze a trail all her own. "Made Up My Mind" displays Shanta Atkins powerful vocal ability and anointing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ohxdv32IIPY&feature=youtu.be&utm_source=Gospel+Central+Media&utm_campaign=d9ec835f5e-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2018_08_17_12_02_COPY_02&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_e930d0cd50-d9ec835f5e-241881717 Mega-hit maker Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins Presents The Good News – a host of superstar artists – with the new song and video “Come Together.” The prolific multi-GRAMMY® winning producer/songwriter has banded together with GRAMMY® winning trailblazers and rising stars to inspire hope, comfort, and raise funds supporting pandemic relief efforts globally. Major proceeds from “Come Together” will benefit two organizations delivering relief, the MusiCares® COVID-19 Relief Fund and Compassion International. Jerkins’ upbeat new track features Kirk Franklin, Lecrae, Fred Hammond, Marvin Sapp, Le’Andria Johnson, Mary Mary, Karen Clark Sheard, Kierra Sheard, Joy Enriquez, Heavenly Joy, Shelby 5, Tim Bowman Jr., Kelontae Gavin, and Jac Ross. Produced by Rodney Jerkins, “Come Together” was written by Jerkins in collaboration with (the late) LaShawn “Big Shiz” Daniels, Jazz Nixon, and Lecrae. https://smarturl.it/RJCT By popular demand, Grammy & Stellar winner Brent Jones' hit song "Fear & Faith Can't Live Together" is truly resonating during these uncertain times as JDI Entertainment releases Brent’s new exclusive video to YouTube & media outlets everywhere: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wBkGiQkgBmE&feature=youtu.be Outspoken megachurch pastor Jamal Bryant of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church slammed the Georgia governor’s decision to begin reopening the local economy by Friday as akin to an “assault on the minority community” and “contrary to God’s will” amid the coronavirus pandemic. “Gov. [Brian] Kemp, if you have a decibel of moral integrity, before Friday comes, I am pleading on your conscience, even when the evangelicals remain silent in this hour, I stand and cry loud and spare not, that what it is you are calling for is contrary to the will of God who declared openly ‘I came that you might have life and have it more abundantly,’” Bryant said in a Facebook Live broadcast Tuesday night. Kanye West has teamed up with Chick-Fil-A to provide 300,000 meals to vulnerable people during the coronavirus pandemic. The 42-year-old rapper and the fast-food franchise have joined forces with the Los Angeles’ Dream Centre, a nonprofit Christian organization, to provide around 11,000 meals a day to those in need in Los Angeles. Earlier Kim announced on Instagram that her shapewear line would be giving $1 million to ‘families affected by COVID-19.’ Jabari Johnson is currently the lead guitarist at The Potter’s House under the leadership of Bishop T.D. Jakes in Dallas, In 2019, Jabari Johnson won a Stellar Award for Best New Artist. Jabari Johnson’s new single is, “Fixed Fight” https://www.dropbox.com/s/ty5kv6ebcla4tdb/JJ_FixedFight_JB02_Master.mp3?dl=0 Keyla Richardson's video that has gone viral to over 1 million views in a very short time singing about the Coronavirus. She had no idea the Impact it would have on people but the comments of Inspiration and Hope starting flooding her timeline. People were inboxing her from all over the country saying how the video had impacted them and their families. With so much positive feedback it has been recorded. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6pg4KHAAjE&feature=youtu.be Every Wednesday Bishop Leonard scott will post a video with ways to nourish your soul in the midst of everything going on in our world today. The one thing we do not want to do is lose sight of God and our own well being. Get off the couch or out of the bed and do something that brings joy to your life today. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tzSUvthMkFs&feature=youtu.be The Figgers Foundation, the charitable arm of African American owned telecommunications firm Figgers Communications, aims to bring awareness and provide solutions to real life issues. Committed to making the world a better place by donating a percentage of the company's profits to pro-social efforts, philanthropist and CEO Freddie Figgers has spearheaded a campaign to provide critical assistance to thousands of healthcare workers on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis. The Florida-based non-profit is donating and distributing approximately 700,000 units of personal protection equipment (“PPE”) to Coronavirus outbreak hotspots around the country. These hotspots include hospitals and healthcare workers in New York, Washington State, California, Georgia, Maryland, New Jersey, Florida, and Michigan. The donations include some of the most crucial PPE equipment such as surgical masks, N95 masks, face shields and hazardous material protective coveralls. Patrick Mahomes has dethroned Tom Brady as the king of NFL merchandise sales, the NFL Players Association revealed Tuesday. Six-time Super Bowl champion Brady had ruled as the top seller of player-identified merchandise for the past two seasons. However the former New England Patriots star who last month joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has now been passed by Kansas City Chiefs ace Mahomes. Brady now sits at number two on the list, which is compiled after analysis of sales of items including jerseys, t-shirts, collectible figures and pennants. The NFLPA said total retail sales for the past year had topped $1.9 billion. Jimmy Hicks celebrates the spirit of perseverance with the release of his brand new song, KEEP RUNNING. He has endeared himself to audiences around the country with his previous hit singles Born Blessed, Blessed Like That and God’s Got It. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-weVdS5LTkg&feature=youtu.be Celebrity designer Claude Kameni, better known as her brand name LAVIE has recently created creative & trendy face masks for everyday people to help combat COVID-19. With each purchase of a mask, LAVIE donates a mask to a hospital. When Claude noticed the need for doctors to have masks in hospitals, she maximized her efforts and even went viral with these trendy forms of protection. She is using her talent to impact the world. Her goal is to make the work-place fashionable. This past weekend, Love went back to her roots and garnered over 20,000 viewers who tuned in for the first-ever Loni Love Quarantine Talent Show. #QuarantineWithLoni is a 1 hour Instagram Live series presented by Loni Love. Many fans check in from around the world and play a round of 'Shoutragous!' as seen on "The Real" that requires blurting out things related to a specific topic before time runs out! For the last few weeks, Love has welcomed special celebrity friends and experts to join her live including DJ D-Nice, Kierra Sheard, Killa Mike, Angela Rye, Tamera Mowry Housley, Terry Ellis of En Vogue, David Allen Grier, Tiffany The Budgetnista, Yo-Yo, Jeannie Mai, Yvette Nicole Brown, Adrienne Houghton and Ta’Rhonda Jones. Originally known as STL3, Stephen, Sierra and Shante Leslie are Washington, D.C.-born singing powerhouses whose first album received a Stellar Award nomination for Youth Project of the Year. The siblings took some time off to pursue higher education, learn more about the music business and further hone their craft. Now, they emerge with a new name – TRILOGY – and a reverent sound reflective of their flawless harmonies and deep roots in Gospel music. Trilogy’s luminous new single “Jesus Loves Me” will be available for download from all digital outlets May 15th . Hear Trilogy in Their Own Words.... http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/trilogy_intvw.htm The musical genres of Gospel and Jazz thrive beautifully within the African American experience. Shining light on both styles and flaunting his musical prowess within them, Saxophonist Richard D'Abreu, Jr. skillfully knows how to weave his talents with improvisation and passion, delivering moving performances in the process. He is currently putting the finishing touches on his brand new release, Jazz in the Spirit. Scheduled to drop in summer of 2020, its lead single. "https://music.apple.com/us/album/look-and-live-single/293162417 Kanye West recently commented on the view that Christians are seen as “judgmental” and noted that Christians should be held accountable by other believers. “I feel that we all have sin, and when certain sins are worn more on our sleeves, it’s easier for Christians who are not Christ, but are human beings, to be able to channel judgment at what they see in front of them,” he told GQ magazine. “The other thing is, if anyone claims to be Christian, they’re accepting accountability to other Christians. “But people don’t realize that Christians are loud. That we have a right to righteous anger. That Jesus flipped tables. They think that all of a sudden you believe in Christ, so we’re not even supposed to speak up. And if we speak up, people will say, ‘Oh, you’re being judgmental.’ And it’s like, ‘Oh, now, because I’m Christian, I don’t even have an opinion anymore?’ I’m Christian and I still have an opinion. But my opinion is based on the Word.” Although he believes in biblical accountability, the hip-hop artist said he is happy that his popular Sunday Service events are a “no judgment” zone. The star-studded virtual event “One World: Together at Home” concluded over the weekend with a moving rendition of “The Prayer,” put together by Lady Gaga. Lady Gaga, John Legend and the original singers of “The Prayer,” Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli, delivered a four-part harmony accompanied by renowned pianist Lang Lang. The song, which became a hit 21 years ago, ended Saturday’s concert special with a message of faith and hope. The event, which was broadcast on numerous networks and streaming platforms, was held to raise funds for the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund for the World Health Organization. Rob Gronkowski will be back to catching passes from Tom Brady in 2020. The soon-to-be unretired tight end has been traded by the Patriots to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. In return, the Patriots will receive a fourth-round pick from Tampa Bay. New England is also sending a seventh-round selection to the Buccaneers as part of the deal. Today BET announces comedian and actor Anthony Anderson as the fourth host of “SAVING OUR SELVES: A BET COVID-19 RELIEF EFFORT,” special. Anderson joins Kelly Rowland, Terrence J and Regina Hall. “SAVING OUR SELVES: A BET COVID-19 RELIEF EFFORT,” is set to air Wednesday, April 22, 2020 at 8 PM EST. Performances include Alicia Keys with a special tribute to New York City, and a Gospel moment with Kirk Franklin featuring Fantasia, Jonathan McReynolds, Kelly Price, Tasha Cobbs, Le’Andria Johnson, and Melvin Crispell III. Exclusive performances by John Legend, Usher, Jhene Aiko, Chloe X Halle, CeeLo Green, H.E.R., Ella Mai, Jermaine Dupri, Ludacris, Swae Lee, Anthony Hamilton, Tyrese Gibson, Buju Banton, DJ D-Nice, SiR, D Smoke and Charlie Wilson. Award-winning songstress Tasha (formally known as Tasha Page-Lockhart) reemerges on the music scene as the first lady of Legacy Music Group, and as a woman who is focused on healing and helping by sharing her powerful new single “Why Not Me” and the significance behind it. In preparation for the recording process, Tasha was determined to find the courage to face her tormented past consisting of sexual assault and substance abuse. Following extensive soul searching, she put pen to paper and what followed was a heartfelt moment of healing, resulting in her current single “Why Not Me.” https://music.apple.com/us/album/why-not-me/1506102612?i=1506102615 The Church of God in Christ, the country’s biggest African American Pentecostal denomination, has taken a deep and painful leadership hit with reports of at least a dozen to up to 30 bishops and prominent clergy dying of covid-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. The denomination show the deaths of leaders in states including Michigan, New York and Mississippi. Those are regions where the Church of God in Christ is prominent and the coronavirus has hit hard. Among those who died after reportedly contracting the virus were: First Assistant Presiding Bishop Phillip A. Brooks, Bishop Timothy Scott in Mississippi and two Michigan bishops, Robert E. Smith Sr. and Robert L. Harris, whose deaths were reported by the Los Angeles Sentinel. Three years ago, gospel star Kim Burrell received backlash after going on a “homophobic” rant at the Love & Liberty Fellowship Church in Houston, Texas, during which she referred to LGBTQ people as having “the perverted homosexual spirit.” The comments caused Burrell to be dropped from a scheduled performance with Pharrell on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, for a song from the film Hidden Figures. Her appearance was canceled. The comments would cause Pharrell to speak out, condemning “hate speech of any kind.” Now, singer-actress Kierra Sheard is reflecting on the gospel star’s fall from grace and hopes people can forgive her. While promoting her latest album KIERRA and her Lifetime Clark Sisters biopic, Sheard explained why Burrell deserves forgiveness. “The gay community is also looking for a way of equality and equality has to do with love and forgiveness. For us to move forward, it’s us having to learn a new way of communication,” Sheard told Hollywood Unlocked’s Jason Lee. “I do think [the LGBT community] should forgive her. Look around her; [they] support her with hair, makeup, wardrobe…so there must be some kind of love she has for them. ”https://youtu.be/fT5gpBaFpaw TV talk show “Sister Circle” has been cancelled after three seasons, the production company, Tegna, announced in a press release. According to the AJC.com’s Radio & TV Talk, the Atlanta-based talker will air its final episode on April 24. The company explained that “while there are many loyal fans of the show, the show has not grown its audience enough to continue.” The popular talk show debuted in 2017 and is hosted by TV and radio personality Rashan Ali, Syleena Johnson, ‘Married to Medicine’star Quad Webb and comedienne Kiana Dancie who was replaced by reality star Trina Braxton (‘Braxton Family Values’) in the 2nd season. Lifetime has dropped the trailer true story of Salt-N-Pepa, which chronicles the formation of the groundbreaking hip-hop group. As previously reported by TheWrap, the 3-hour miniseries follows the story of nursing students Cheryl “Salt” James and Sandra “Pepa” Denton as they fall into the world of rap and hip hop, after recording for a friend’s school project. Salt-N-Pepa became the first female rap act to go platinum and bags multiple Grammy wins while paving the way for all female rappers. https://youtu.be/WfNQ25ih8EY The “Saving Our Selves: A BET COVID-19 Relief Effort” broadcast special, will air on Wednesday, April 22nd at 8 pm EST. The special, co-hosted by Grammy Award-Winning singer and actress Kelly Rowland, TV personality Terrence J, and actress Regina Hall; will feature virtual appearances and musical performances from some of the biggest names in music and entertainment as they share tips on how to manage, cope and help during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. Celebrity guest appearances and performances will include DJ Khaled, Charlie Wilson, Chance the Rapper, Kirk Franklin, Fantasia, Melvin Crispell III, and many more. The special will give up-to-date information and drive viewers to needed resources during this unprecedented time. In partnership with United Way, proceeds are being donated to African American communities severely impacted by COVID-19. The National Black Church Initiative (NBCI), a faith-based coalition of 34,000 churches comprised of 37 denominations and 26.7 million African Americans with an additional 116,000 sister churches, is demanding that the unidentified police who handcuffed Dr. Armen Henderson be fired and NBCI will be sending a letter to Attorney General William Barr asking for an investigation into Dr. Henerson Civil Rights. Rev. Anthony Evans, President of the National Black Church Initiative says “ we are demanding that that Policeman be fired and if not then the city of Miami can expect the largest protest in the history of this country shortly after this pandemic. The only reason for the cop action is race. The cop is a God-hating racist.” Miami Police Department is under fire after a video surfaced of an officer handcuffing and detaining an African-American doctor outside his home on Friday. The man, Armen Henderson, was wearing a mask and preparing for a volunteer shift helping protect homeless people from the spread of COVID-19, when a patrol car pulled up to his home. Surveillance video from Dr. Henderson’s house shows him loading a van with supplies before the encounter. Dr. Henderson says the police officer handcuffed him after accusing him of littering and then asking for identification, which Henderson did not have on him. The officer was not wearing a mask; Dr. Henderson was. He had to yell to his wife inside their home to present identification before the officer finally released him. On Saturday, Miami police chief has ordered an internal investigation into the incident. The officer involved has not been identified. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Platinum-selling artists the Newsboys were forced to cancel their spring tour dates due to the national lockdown and frontman Michael Tait said the unplanned “sabbatical” has been good for him. Since reuniting two years ago, the history-making, six-member band has played more than 250 concerts and are now bringing their concert to fans with their new EP, United: Live. The music release arrived in tandem with the premiere of the Christian group’s “Friday Spring Concert Series” on YouTube. The concert series kicked off with their timely single, “Love One Another.” Tait said the single release and video for it coming out during the COVID-19 pandemic is a perfect reminder that love is the way to go right now while in quarantine. WATCH JONATHAN MCREYNOLDS ON ?"VIBE V-SESSIONS" THIS SUNDAY, APRIL 19TH AT 2:30PM/1:30C ON FACEBOOK LIVE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_8d-W_lorY&feature=youtu.be “The Last Full Measure” is being released in the midst of the new coronavirus pandemic and the film’s director says he’s honored to see the actions of first responders who are serving their communities because their selfless sacrifice reminds him of the film’s Vietnam War hero. “The Last Full Measure,” which is now available on Amazon and will be released on Blu-ray/DVD on April 21, tells the true story of William “Pits” Pitsenbarger, a U.S. Air Force pararescuemen who saved over 60 men in more than 250 combat missions during the Vietnam War. https://youtu.be/Go8zI2sytEc GRAMMY® and Stellar Award-winning artist, actress and entrepreneur, Kierra Sheard, released her highly anticipated album KIERRA. Marking her sixth studio album and first project with RCA Inspiration. KIERRA includes the songstress’ latest single “It Keeps Happening,” and “Don’t Judge Me,” featuring Missy Elliott. With a mission to deliver uplifting music, KIERRA provides a fitting sanctuary amid these difficult times, “Faith and inspiration have been the driving force of my career. We’re going to get past this. We have to. The Lord has so many things for so many of us to do,” Kierra shares. The album includes 15-tracks with sounds ranging from Pop, R&B, Hip-Hop, and Gospel, and features some live recorded songs which Kierra performed in her hometown of Detroit, MI. Kierra either wrote or co-wrote all of the tracks on the album including the beautiful ballad “Grateful,” “Human” and “Better.” In addition to Missy Elliott and Tasha Cobbs Leonard, the album features vocals from Todd Dulaney, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Le’Andria Johnson and Kierra’s nephew Jacob Sheard. Share our journey and Flash Back Gospel Spotlight!!!! Hear Kierra Sheard IN Her Own Words...https://www.gospel-spotlight.com/kierra_sheard_intvw.htm The Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation has launched a $1 million emergency fund to support freelance New York City-area jazz musicians during the coronavirus pandemic. The organization’s board of directors Thursday announced The Louis Armstrong Emergency Fund for Jazz Musicians. It is aimed at providing financial support to jazz vocalists and instrumentalists who have lost income because of the coronavirus, which has forced performers to cancel concerts, tours and performances. The fund will give one-time grants of $1,000 to jazz musicians that live in the New York City region and work regularly in the five boroughs of New York City. “The entire jazz ecosystem has been shut down, and the jazz community is devastated. To mitigate some of the loss, this fund will award an unprecedented $1 million to assist qualifying musicians in need,” aid Wynton Marsalis, the Grammy-winning jazz icon who is president of The Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation as well as managing and artistic director of Jazz at Lincoln Center. Chart topping, award winning hip-hop artist and creative KB(born Kevin Burgess) celebrates the launch of a new joint partnership with Sony Music with the release of a new single. “Armies,” the hard-hitting first single under the new deal, is available today across all digital music service providers. The accompanying lyric video, which includes visuals of KB sparring in the gym, gives an up-close and personal glimpse into KB and the army he so passionately fights for. https://vimeo.com/407711233/40b7776f22 The Chosen Few was formed by Courtney Jackson in 2001 under the group name Second Chance. The group members are Jackson, Marcus Myers, Eric Smith, Timothy Corbitt, Anthony Wright, Malcolm Ramsey, Larry Evans, Richard Adams, and Anthony Taylor. Now, The Chosen Few has been developing and progressing their sound and style, and lighting up stages with every performance. The Chosen Few have taken some time to prepare their new single called "Get Right" that is available now on all digital outlets. The single is written by and produced by Jackson and is the precursor to their forthcoming album TRIUMPHANT. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoPuM-mDftU&feature=youtu.be Jason Clayborn (known for writing or co-writing hit songs for the likes of Hezekiah Walker, Wess Morgan, etc.) convenes his Louisville-based pool of talented vocalists; "The Atmosphere Changers", for a heart-felt, spirited upbeat song celebrating God's marvelous creation. In addition Clayborn and his group have given us an exciting and vibrant new music video to accompany this dynamic choir jam. https://youtu.be/9IPsdGcv2RQ Carmen Williamson, who in the 1940s and ’50s was a top U.S. amateur boxer and then in 1984 became the first black boxing referee and judge at the Olympic games, has died. He was 94. Williamson died of COVID-19 complications on April 8 at a hospital in Toledo, one of his daughters said Thursday. He was just three weeks away from receiving his college degree from the University of Toledo — a pursuit he began nearly 20 years ago, she said. “He loved education, the process, the classes,” said Celia Williamson, the youngest of his four surviving daughters. “He sat in the front row and would always arrive early.” In addition to refereeing, he traveled the world in the 1980s, teaching the sport to young people, using a training program he had developed, she said. The number of reported deaths in the U.S. from the new coronavirus spiked to nearly double the prior record Thursday, as governors extended their lockdown orders, and the Trump administration released new federal guidelines to reopen the economy. In the 24 hours ending at 8 p.m. Eastern time Thursday, 4,591 people were reported to have died from COVID-19, according to a Wall Street Journal analysis of data from Johns Hopkins University. The prior record was 2,569 on Wednesday. The number of new reported U.S. cases, meanwhile, was roughly equal with that on Wednesday at 31,451. Actor Kirk Cameron has teamed up with Bishop T.D. Jakes, Franklin Graham, Gloria Gaynor and his sister, Candace Cameron Bure, for a benefit concert event to help Samaritan’s Purse. Cameron and Bure will co-host Hope Rising livestream on Facebook at 8 p.m. Eastern time on Sunday and 100% of the proceeds will go to Samaritan’s Purse which set up field hospitals in both New York City and Cremona, Italy, to provide medical support to hospitals caring for patients during the COVID-19 outbreak. A decision on whether to postpone or cancel the U.S. Open because of the coronavirus pandemic is expected by June, the U.S. Tennis Association’s new CEO said Thursday, calling the prospect of holding the Grand Slam tournament without spectators “highly unlikely.” He said the USTA is being advised by a medical advisory group that includes at least five doctors. “Time is on our side, at this point,” Dowse said, because the U.S. Open is not scheduled to begin until late August. The tournament in New York City would be the next major championship on the tennis calendar; the French Open’s start was postponed from May until September, and Wimbledon was canceled altogether. The men’s and women’s tennis tours are on hold entirely until at least mid-July, and one tournament in August already has been scrapped. The Gospel Spotlight's James Fortune featuring Lisa Knowles Smith and "Nobody Like Jesus." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqsCzgFujUY The Gospel Spotlight's JJ Hairston & Mercy Chinwo : " EXCESS LOVE REMIX." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SC5ROke_WMc David Walker & High Praise drops "You Can't Make Me Doubt Him"- ft: Bishop Jeronn C. Wlliams and LeJuene Thompson https://www.dropbox.com/s/7w28nupqgo26k7i/You%20Can%27t%20Make%20Me%20Doubt%20Him%20%20James%20Walker%20and%20High%20Praise.mp3?dl=0 Urban One, Inc. recently unveiled a new WE ARE ONE PSA campaign designed to provide hope and encouragement during the COVID-19 pandemic. The campaign features a host of celebrities, Reach Media Syndicated Radio Personalities, talent from TV One and Radio One, Urban One executives and staff sharing uplifting expressions of unity and strength as the nation grapples with the unprecedented impact of the global health pandemic. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14zwm_1ohQ4&feature=youtu.be CLEO TV SERVES UP A PLANT-BASED FEAST ON JUST EATS WITH CHEF JJ FEATURING DJ INFLUENCERS ANGEL AND DREN THIS SATURDAY, APRIL 18 AT 12 P.M. ET/11C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ZQ87wlpILM&feature=youtu.be ADRIENNE HOUGHTON REACTS TO HER INSTAGRAM COMMENTS AND DMs ON ALL THINGS ADRIENNE ON SATURDAY, APRIL 18 AT 1 P.M. ET/12C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XntVqotTs2k&feature=youtu.be HEART OF THE BATTER WITH JORDIN SPARKS SET TO PREMIERE ON SATURDAY, MAY 9 AT 1 P.M. ET/12C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ork0eVCma30&feature=youtu.be A group of black pastors and researchers called on the Trump administration Wednesday to address the disproportionate impact of the new coronavirus on minority communities. blob:https://www.facebook.com/ca62b589-9485-408a-9dd6-d0b4110698d5 The latest movie from Steph Curry’s Unanimous Media releases on home video platforms this week and spotlights a slice of basketball history unknown to most hoops fans. The documentary Jump Shot, available for rental April 16-18, tells the inspiring story of Kenny Sailors, an All-American at the University of Wyoming in the 1940s and the inventor of the modern jump shot. Prior to Sailors, two-handed set shots dominated the game. It includes interviews with Curry, Kevin Durant, Dirk Nowitzki, Clark Kellogg, Bob Knight, Nancy Lieberman, Lou Carnesecca and others. Curry is an executive producer. It is the second film from Unanimous Media, which he co-founded. Aspiration Entertainment is the distributor. Brian Dennehy, the burly actor who started in films as a macho heavy and later in his career won plaudits for his stage work in plays by William Shakespeare, Anton Chekhov, Eugene O’Neill and Arthur Miller, has died. He was 81. Dennehy died Wednesday night of natural causes in New Haven, Connecticut. Willie Davis attended a historically black college in the 1950s, far off the NFL’s radar. Drafted in the 15th round by the Cleveland Browns and then drafted into the U.S. Army at the onset of the Vietnam War. Then traded two seasons into his career. Davis, whose NFL career was surpassed only by his post-playing career, died Wednesday at age 85. He left behind a legacy of unquestioned success, a Packers legend who retired to become a millionaire business owner. The defensive end teammate and roommate Jerry Kramer nicknamed “Dr. Feelgood” became a stalwart for all five Packers world championships in the Glory Years of the 1960s. Sam Clayton Jr., one of the members of the 1988 Jamaican bobsled team, died last month from the coronavirus, the New York Times reported. Clayton Jr. was 58. Clayton Jr. became famous for his contributions to the music world as a producer, sound engineer and manager in Jamaica’s reggae scene, earning international recognition, through the label “Harry J. Studio.” But his first brush with fame came during the the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, where he was a member of the iconic Jamaican squad. The team’s efforts inspired the Disney movie “Cool Runnings.” Award-winning songwriter and producer Kenneth Leonard, Jr. has entered into an exclusive songwriting agreement with Capitol CMG Publishing, the world’s market-leading Christian music publisher. His writing and production credits include popular songs recorded by William Murphy, Anthony Hamilton and most famously, his wife, GRAMMY®-winning singer/songwriter Tasha Cobbs Leonard. In 2000, Marc and Joy Cooper put on a music conference similar to the then-popular Edwin Hawkins Music & Arts Seminars where they brought industry leaders together to share insight and information on the music business with Miami, Florida's bustling gospel community of aspiring singers, songwriters and musicians. The closing event of the conference was a big concert recording which featured trained and untrained singers uniting to make a joyful noise. One of the joyful highlights of that evening was this instantly-memorable track "Real Thing" which features the crackling vocals of Kervy Brown backed by a funky rhythm section and a passionate group of vocalists. https://spaces.hightail.com/space/bus4fm7Hbg/files/fi-bce57e5b-dd5c-4900-aff6-607ab1f98b31/fv-3e39c05b-4b1a-48a0-9873-ffd778820b47/02%20Real%20Thing%20192.mp3 TV One's award-winning documentary series UNSUNG wraps the season with legendary rap group Goodie Mob on Sunday, April 19 at 10 p.m. ET/9C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U2LCMynas8g&feature=youtu.be Are you ready for another Worship & Wellness Wednesday? This week's topic is the Importance of Joy! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tzSUvthMkFs&feature=youtu.be Oprah Winfrey has warned African Americans to take the coronavirus outbreak seriously because it is ‘ravaging our community’ and ‘taking us out’. The TV mogul said the coronavirus outbreak continued to have a devastating impact on black communities across the United States but that people weren’t getting the message about the risk of asymptomatic carriers. Speaking to CBS This Morning Tuesday, Winfrey said it was important for black people to understand that pre-existing conditions including diabetes and asthma put them at greater risk if they contracted the virus. https://youtu.be/WV4_RBdJo7c Houston manager Dusty Baker celebrated Jackie Robinson’s legacy on the 73rd anniversary of the fall of the major league color barrier and lamented the lack of African Americans in today’s game. “It’s frustrating because we’ve talked about it forever … but it seems like the numbers are dwindling instead of increasing,” Baker said Wednesday. Only 7.7% of big league players on opening day rosters last year were African American, down from 17% in 1990. Baker and Dodgers manager Dave Roberts are the only two African American managers in the majors. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com T.D. Jakes Goes Off on When God Gets Tired of Us Being Defiant He Will Do Some Things to Get Our Attention. https://pbs.twimg.com/ext_tw_video_thumb/1250167046660382720/pu/img/LACSYZ77PSS1AvXi?format=jpg&name=small Known for her jazzy, raspy and vocally unique sound, singer/songwriter and peace activist Queen Theresa King releases her long anticipated single “This Too Shall Pass”. The uplifting and powerful single is the first release from her forthcoming debut EP titled “It’s Your Life”. The single is available now on all digital platforms. The EP set to release in April will feature 5 equally soulful and heartfelt tracks. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6shu3rXoR6c Hallelujah! The Lifetime Original Movie The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel hit a high note on Saturday night, delivering 2.7 million Total Viewers in L+SD, according to Nielsen Media Research, making it Lifetime's highest-rated movie since 2016 and the strongest original movie on all of television for 2020 across key demos, including both broadcast and cable. Additionally, The Clark Sisters was the best ad-supported cable original movie since 2018 in key demos, with 1.1 million Adults 25-54, 905,000 Adults 18-49 and 813,000 Women 25-54. On social media, #TheClarkSisters ranked #1 across all TV on April 11 with over 700,000 interactions, according to Nielsen Social. #TheClarkSisters was the top social Lifetime movie over the last year. Rapper Chynna Rogers, who passed away earlier this week at 25 years old, died of an accidental drug overdose, Page Six has learned. A rep for the Philadelphia Department of Public Health confirmed Rogers’ cause of death early Friday. As Page Six previously reported, the “Selfie” singer was found dead at her Philadelphia home on Wednesday. “Chynna was deeply loved and will be sorely missed,” her family said in a statement. John Boyega could only have a long term relationship with a woman if she were a Christian. The Star Wars actor confessed he has yet to experience true love and is keen to find his life-long ‘companion’ like his parents have. But when he does, the 27-year-old star says any future partner will have to share his faith. ‘My mum and dad have been together for 25 years, so that’s the system to follow.’ McDonald’s is in damage control mode after a restaurant in China displayed a sign banning black people from the premises. The sign, which recently circulated on social media, said the McDonald’s location in Guangzhou has “been informed that from now on black people are not allowed to enter the restaurant.” The sign is “not representative of our inclusive values,” McDonald’s said in a statement. The sign was removed and the location was temporarily closed down. CNN has not yet been able to authenticate the video. https://pbs.twimg.com/ext_tw_video_thumb/1249011661119381505/pu/img/bN2xaTS8Zzr82Fdv?format=jpg&name=small The Carolina Panthers have rewarded Christian McCaffrey for his production and versatility, making him the highest-paid running back in the NFL. The team agreed to a four-year, $64 million contract extension with McCaffrey Monday. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the Panthers have not announced the extension. Details on how much of the contract is fully guaranteed were unavailable. The $16-million-a-year deal eclipses Ezekiel Elliott’s contract with the Dallas Cowboys that is worth $15 million per season. Clemson head football coach Dabo Swinney says he believes God will be “glorified” during the COVID-19 pandemic and that football will be played this fall. Swinney, who often discusses his Christian faith during public interviews, made the remarks last week on ESPN’s First Take. “Faith and hope,” he said, make him optimistic the pandemic will end soon enough to allow for a football season. “I just have always lived my life with optimism,” he said. “… I think that God is bigger than this [pandemic]. I think He’s gonna be glorified and shine through this in a mighty way. … He has the ability to stamp this thing out as quick as it rose up. The Praise Party Returns!!! HJ Ellison the originator of the Praise Party is bringing it back. While sitting home through this pandemic God moved HJ's heart to be a blessing and bring the Praise Party back. Listen and Njoy HJ's Praise Party!!!! Here is just a sample:http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/praisepartyb.mp3 ........For more Njoy: http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/hjgospelpraisejoints_intvw.htm Andrea René Williams is uplifting believers with a song she wrote entitled “Count It As Done”. A track touting the power of faith, “Count It As Done” has a brand new lyric video that just debuted on YouTube. “‘Count It As Done’ was a song that came to me in two separate dreams,” says the song’s composer, arranger, producer and engineer. “The message and the music are so powerful to me. I don’t believe we realize what power we’ve been given as believers. Even in the climate of this current COVID-19 pandemic, we can use the word of God to speak healing and restoration over this nation and this world. We need to use the authority that the Lord gave us in Matthew 11:23 and speak to the mountains in our lives. We need to exercise our faith.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_DQqkhX01g&feature=youtu.be Melvin Crispell III - "Without You" is our song in the Gospel Spotlight. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JrGIBOvtZFQ&feature=youtu.be GRAMMY-nominated couple, Juan and Lisa Winans’, official debut single, “It Belongs To Me,” features 6X GRAMMY-Award winner Marvin Winans. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ElAjYAyoWQ0&feature=youtu.be Justin Bieber shared a message about the true meaning of Easter and the ultimate sacrifice Jesus made for us. In an Instagram post Sunday, he reminded everyone that God loves us even though we are sinners. Bieber wrote, “God who created the sun, trees, grass, birds, mountains, lakes, oceans, LOVES YOU! He loves you so much that he came to earth in human form, lived a perfect sinless life, To make the ultimate sacrifice! He would die on the cross to take the punishment for the wrongs that you and I have committed! Then he rose from the dead to defeat death!” He emphasized that Easter is about Christ’s triumph over death and that His resurrection grants eternal life to everyone who believes in Him. Dolly Parton showed that there can still be unbridled joy on Easter Sunday during the coronavirus pandemic, strumming a stirring, solo performance of “He’s Alive” for her Instagram page. Parton, 74, who has been a prominent voice amid this public health emergency, started the video discussing social distancing on the holiday in which Christians observe the resurrection of Jesus. “We don’t have to go a building or church to worship God. The kingdom of God is within,” said Parton. “This year, we’re gonna kinda stay around the house a little bit, right? But that doesn’t mean we can’t worship in the same way that we should.” A Tennessee State spokesperson confirmed Tarvaris Jackson’s death to ESPN. Jackson was the Tigers’ quarterbacks coach in 2019 after spending a year as a quality control and quarterbacks coach at his alma mater, Alabama State. According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, Jackson was involved in a single-vehicle crash at 8:50 p.m. Sunday; the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro he was driving left the roadway, struck a tree and then overturned. Jackson was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The crash occurred about 7 miles south of Jackson’s hometown of Montgomery, Alabama. Jackson is survived by his wife, Lakitta, and three children, Tarvaris, Takayla and Tyson. Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson has reacted to the tragic death of his former backup quarterback, Tarvaris Jackson. Jackson, who played in the NFL from 2006-15, died in a car accident in Alabama on Sunday night, according to multiple reports. He was 36 years old. The former NFL QB was Wilson’s backup from 2013-15. He played in the fourth quarter of the blowout win over Denver in Super Bowl XLVIII. Wilson shared his reaction to the news on Twitter. “TJack… you will be missed. Praying for your family…Love you man,” he wrote. Timothy Brown, a former NFL running back who later appeared in both the film and TV versions of “M*A*SH,” died April 4 from complications with dementia, according to reports. He was 82. Brown, who became a correctional officer in Los Angeles after retiring from acting, had been living in Palm Springs, Calif. Brown played college football at Ball State University, then went on to play for the Green Bay Packers, Philadelphia Eagles and Baltimore Colts in a 10-year NFL career. “Timmy Brown was an all-time great Eagle and one of the most dynamic multipurpose players of his era. A heartbreaking image of an Atlanta elderly couple shows them holding hands while in the hospital, just days before they died after catching coronavirus at their long-term care facility. Eddie Johnson Jr. passed away April 5 and his wife, Blanche Johnson, died on April 8. The Johnson's caught coronavirus while living at Arbor Terrace at Cascade in Atlanta, Georgia. Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott working out with Dez Bryant while the country is supposed to be observing social distancing was bad enough. But hosting a dinner party with reportedly up to 30 guests? Prescott threw a birthday party for one of his friends at his house in Texas on Friday night, according to TMZ, and as many as 30 people, including Elliott, attended at a time when the state is under stay-at-home orders because of the coronavirus pandemic. Prescott may have stayed home, but the number of guests the Cowboys quarterback, 26, hosted was well beyond the latest CDC advisory of no social gatherings of more than 10 people. Later in the night at Prescott’s house, there was a sit-down dinner for a smaller group, TMZ reported. The US has recorded the deadliest day from the coronavirus pandemic any country has so far seen, as it becomes the first country to mark more than 2,000 deaths in 24 hours and its number of infections topped half a million. Stark figures show that 2,028 Americans died from coronavirus in a single day on Friday, taking the death toll to almost 19,000. As the nation mourns its darkest day on record during the pandemic, the total number of Americans infected skyrocketed past half a million. Babyface is feeling more grateful than ever on his birthday after an “incredibly scary” battle with the coronavirus. The Grammy award-winning music producer, whose real name is Kenneth Edmonds, reflected on his COVID-19 diagnosis on his 62nd birthday Friday. “I feel so blessed to be able to celebrate another birthday,” he wrote in a statement posted to Twitter. “I tested positive for the Covid19 virus, as did my family. It’s an incredibly scary thing to go through my friends.” Although Babyface didn’t provide a timeline on his diagnosis, the singer-songwriter added that he and his family are no longer positive for the contagious virus. Sight & Sound Theatres had planned to release “Jesus” on the big screen this Easter weekend but with movie theaters around the country closed due to the coronavirus outbreak, the entertainment company will instead be offering it for free. Over a million people have watched the live performance of “Jesus” at Sight & Sound’s theater in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The musical stage adventure is being shown on TBN on Saturday (April 11) at 1 p.m. ET. It is also being made available on the TBN app and website for viewing anytime beginning Friday and through Easter Sunday. Rihanna is teaming up with Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey to donate $4.2million to help domestic violence victims in LA amid the coronavirus lockdown. According to TMZ, the 32-year-old singer’s Clara Lionel Foundation and the Twitter CEO, 43, are sending a $4.2m grant to the Mayor’s Fund to help abuse victims. The donation comes amid reports that more than 90 people are being turned away from domestic violence shelters in LA every week. The site reports that the money will be able to cover housing, meals and counselling for 90 victims per week for 10 weeks. Then money will be given to an additional 90 victims per week for 10 weeks after that. Coronavirus isolation measures have already resulted in a spike in domestic violence attacks around the world. Los Angeles prosecutors on Friday filed a new charge against Harvey Weinstein, stemming from an alleged assault at a Beverly Hills hotel room in 2010. Weinstein is already awaiting extradition to Los Angeles to face four other charges, stemming from two incidents in hotels in February 2013. The former producer is serving a 23-year sentence in a prison near Buffalo, N.Y., for rape and sexual assault. In the new case, Weinstein is accused of “sexual battery by restraint” against a woman at a hotel room on May 11, 2010. The woman was first interviewed by detectives in October 2019, and was later able to provide evidence that showed the incident happened within the statute of limitations. BET announces the “BET Presents: The Light, An Easter Production,” a special broadcast of Easter Service in partnership with the world-renowned worship center, The Potter's House. Premiering Sunday, April 12, at 10 AM ET/PT commercial-free on BET, the two-hour special will bring families an uplifting Easter celebration. The Potter's House Arts and Music Ministry along with a special guest appearance by Tony Award-winning Broadway veteran Quentin Darrington will tell the story of Jesus Christ from the book of John's perspective centered around how the light of Christ came into the world to dispel darkness. From hip-hop to presentations by children's dance companies, to poetry and sometimes comical recitations, the Easter production, aims to bring hope and strength to a world navigating challenging times. Songwriter Lindsey DeBerry has penned a beautiful song to express appreciation for someone dear. "You Have Inspired Me" is an inspirational song that was written in mind for listeners to reflect on and share with a special person deserving of appreciation. DeBerry's mother was his motivation for writing the song. "You Have Inspired Me" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ae_HLMSE_Ec&feature=youtu.be "THE CLARK SISTERS: FIRST LADIES OF GOSPEL" SET TO PREMIERE SATURDAY, APRIL 11TH AT 8/7C ON LIFETIME. OFFICIAL ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACK AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE MONDAY, APRIL 13TH ON ALL MAJOR DIGITAL STREAMING & RETAIL OUTLETS. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dHt_QUfnac&feature=youtu.be THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE HOST A DYNAMIC GUEST LINEUP INCLUDING GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING GOSPEL ARTIST DONNIE MCCLURKIN, COMEDIAN/ACTRESS SHERYL UNDERWOOD, FAMED REALITY JUDGE LYNN TOLER, CYNTOIA BROWN AND MORE! Veteran Gospel singer-songwriter, Kathy Taylor, to partner with Autism Speaks in commemoration of World Autism Month in a “town-hall” style conversation on Facebook, Thursday, April 14. World Autism Month kicked off with the United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day on April 2. The month-long celebration includes autism-friendly events and educational activities to increase understanding and acceptance and foster worldwide support. Taylor and Janet Williams, Director Community Outreach, Autism Speaks (Mid-Atlantic and South-Atlantic), will host an awareness-building event to discuss the importance of autism awareness in the black community; as well as bridging the gap for faith-based communities. "God Is with Us" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyysIfNvq3o&feature=youtu.be The Gospel Spotlight's new music from Jonathan McReynolds and Mali Music titled “Movin’ On.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWwlzDk4OYM&feature=youtu.be Bishop T.D. Jakes, Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, Minister Ricky Dillard and others will join RADIO ONE's COVID-19 National Day of Prayer, #OneinPrayer. Other participants include: Warryn Campbell, producer and husband of Erica Campbell; Rev./Drs. Grainger and JoAnn Browning, pastors of Ebenezer AME Church; Pastor Joel Peebles of City of Praise Family Ministries; Dr. Bridget Hillard, pastor of New Light Church World Outreach and Worship Center; Bishop Dale Bronner of Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral; and Pastor John Hannah of New Life Covenant Church Southeast. Erica Campbell To Conduct an Essence IG Takeover Today at 1 P.M. ET. In tandem with the 10th anniversary of the nationally syndicated Café Mocha Radio Show, Miles Ahead Broadcasting announces a new collaboration with Rushion McDonald to host the show’s new ‘SWAG Award’ feature honoring Black men who exemplify Strength, Wisdom, Assertiveness and Genuineness of spirit (SWAG) for their service; from civic leaders, businessman, activists, celebrities and everyday dad. Café Mocha’s SWAG Award series launches this week with Cedric The Entertainer; upcoming feature interviews include entertainers/entrepreneurs Nick Cannon, Hill Harper; broadcasters/HBCU Grads Stephen A. Smith, Rickey Smiley; men of faith/entrepreneurs Bishop T.D. Jakes, Kirk Franklin; Oscar Winner Matthew A Cherry; entertainment leaders James Lopez, Jeff Clanagan; and athlete/entrepreneur Chris Paul. KIERRA SHEARD ON "GOOD MORNING AMERICA" Friday, April 10th at 8AM EST on ABC. Kierra Sheard discusses the original Lifetime film, "The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel" and her upcoming album Kierra. CLEO TV brings back the island flavor on the Easter weekend edition of JUST EATS WITH CHEF JJ this Saturday, April 11 at 12 P.M. ET/11C. Love & Hip Hop star, Tahiry Jose, and multi-platinum music producer, Jahlil Beats, join Chef JJ to cook up Citrus Jerk Red Snapper and Sautéed Cabbage. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3z7grJB6wA&feature=youtu.be We get an intimate look at Adrienne's experience growing up as a Latina on the next episode of ALL THINGS ADRIENNE WITH ADRIENNE HOUGHTON airing at 1 P.M. ET/12C; with an encore episode at 11 P.M. ET/10C. She reflects on how her Latin heritage has influenced her life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51TQPPfmksc&feature=youtu.be It's the launch of Tasha Page Lockhart's new project! Her single hits home at a time when people need inspiration. "Why Not Me" speaks to us all as Tasha Page Lockhart delivers wonderful her message on this track. https://www.dropbox.com/sh/30krn3k75sdlftx/AAAYozQ_HAp6efxeMofUVxW6a?dl=0 Jimmy Hicks realize that people are living in a Critical time right now and need to know that We need to know that God is Worthy and That "We can Still "FEEL THE SPIRIT." Jimmy Hicks single "I Feel the Spirit" which is on the "I Feel the Spirit" Project by Jimmy Hicks is in The Gospel Spotlight. "Keep Running" https://youtu.be/-weVdS5LTkg Pastor David Wright & The N.Y. Fellowship Choir's New Single Release "Mighty Long Way" feat Keith "Wonderboy" Johnson https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0m9jz7yTSbk&feature=youtu.be&utm_source=Pastor+David+Wright+%26+N.+Y.+F.+Mass+Choir+Mighty+Long+Way+BDS+%23+72&utm_campaign=Mighty+Long+Way&utm_medium=email BeBe Winans is on the road to recovery after contracting COVID-19. By touching on how contagious the novel coronavirus is, the Gospel singer also revealed that his brother was hospitalized due to the virus, and his mother also was infected. Winans opened up about his recent diagnosis on SiriusXM’s The Joe Madison Show, detailing that he likely caught the coronavirus while traveling to attend a funeral. “I just started coughing out of nowhere,” he said, “…and then the fatigue came on, and the chills, and [my] appetite went away.” As the coronavirus pandemic intensified, Leilani Jordan insisted on going to her job as a clerk at a Maryland grocery so she could help seniors, her mother said. She had challenges of her own, as a worker with cerebral palsy. But as shoppers around the country raided shelves for necessities in early to mid-March, Jordan wanted to make sure the elderly got theirs. https://youtu.be/--y0gXQN_S8 Despite being locked down due to the coronavirus pandemic, former Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston has married longtime girlfriend Breion Allen. The couple, who have been together since high school, wed in a private ceremony at their home in Odessa, Florida, on March 27. The ceremony was Winston’s idea and he set it up, according to a source close to the couple. The source said they still have plans to have a larger wedding with family and friends when it is safe to do so. LSU football coach Ed Orgeron and his wife of 23 years, Kelly Orgeron, are divorcing. Orgeron filed for divorce on Feb. 26 in East Baton Rouge Parish court, according to the Baton Rouge Advocate. Orgeron stated he and his wife had separated two days before he filed. Court documents stated that Ed Orgeron wants exclusive use and occupancy of the couple’s new home in Baton Rouge, while he has no objection to Kelly having exclusive occupancy of their home in Mandeville until community property is settled by agreement or by a judge. RADIO ONE today announced a national day of prayer campaign to be held on Good Friday, April 10, 2020. The Radio One COVID-19 National Day of Prayer, #OneinPrayer, will feature syndicated radio personalities, Erica Campbell, Willie Moore, Jr. and Darlene McCoy joined by gospel music artists, pastors and special guests to pray for the country and world as it confronts the effects of the global pandemic. Among the participants in the prayer campaign are: Lecrae, Rev. Al Sharpton, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Pastor John Gray, Devon Franklin, Cora Jakes Coleman, Dr. Cindy Trimm, Pastor Donnie McClurkin, Pastor Smokie Norful, Pastor Charles Jenkins, Byron Cage, Tasha Cobbs-Leonard, Canton Jones and Pastor Mike, Jr. They will join the on-air personalities live on the Radio One Praise stations each hour from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and live on Instagram, at the bottom of each hour. Enon Music Group (EMG) is one of the fastest-growing record labels in Gospel music. Founded by Dr. Alyn E. Waller is pleased to announce that San Franklin is now the label's newest signee. The marriage of EMG and Franklin has formed an electrifying partnership that is going to give heat to the Gospel music genre and will give fans a musically masterful soundtrack for worship and praise. San recorded her first album live in Nashville last year. Franklin, EMG, and distribution partner Sony Music / The Orchard are making plans to release her debut solo album THE FREE PROJECT this year. Tyler Perry footed the bill for every elderly person shopping for groceries at 44 Atlanta-based Kroger stores during the supermarket’s senior hour Wednesday morning. He did the same for 29 locations in his hometown of New Orleans. BET announces an array of high impact initiatives to support communities of color impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Black Americans are being disproportionately harmed by the health and financial devastation wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic. BET, in partnership with the NAACP, United Way Worldwide, leaders in the African American creative, civil rights and business communities will provide critical financial, educational and community support directly to African Americans hardest hit by this crisis. Wednesday, April 8, at 8 PM ET/ 5 PM PT, “Unmasked: A COVID-19 Virtual Town Hall Series Powered by NAACP & BET” will stream on NAACP.org. The “Saving Our Selves: A BET COVID-19 Relief Effort” will air Wednesday, April 22nd 8 pm EST. Co-hosted by Kelly Rowland, Terrence J and Regina Hall; will feature virtual appearances and musical performances include DJ Khaled, Charlie Wilson, Chance the Rapper, Kirk Franklin, Fantasia, Melvin Crispell III, and many more. "NO GREATER LOVE" embodies the very sentiments of the greatest love ever known to mankind through the life and sacrifice of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As we CELEBRATE THE SACRIFICE this entire week, this song speaks to the very fabric of our faith and will focus our attention on the one who is more than able to see us through this world wide pandemic. https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/hcTDtTzKsjB2syCB0T6Eo James Fortune doesnt disappoint with his new single "Nobody LIke Jesus". It's a traditional ballad featuring powerhouse singerLisa Knowles Smith. The power, energy, and message in the lyrics are sure to resonate during this critical time. It points to who Jesus is and why people should look to Him now more than ever. https://www.dropbox.com/sh/9rcyh5ffshekyt1/AACcvRZA4HeKmsGwqGqFOZIia?dl=0 Introducing Worship & Wellness Wednesdays! Every Wednesday Bishop Leonard Scott will post a video with ways to nourish your soul in the midst of everything going on in our world today. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=udS850dfyIk&feature=youtu.be TV One's award-winning documentary series UNSUNG shines a spotlight on revolutionary jazz singer Al Jarreau, this Sunday, April 12 at 10 p.m. ET/9C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N40uurkkJ78&feature=youtu.be Actress Essence Atkins recently spoke publicly about an encounter she had with God that solidified her faith.The account of her experience can be seen in the all-new Urban Movie Channel original docuseries “Behind Her Faith” which highlights four women at the top of their careers and takes a deep look at their personal journeys of faith as their driving force. https://youtu.be/69BIFfFzL1U Tracy Morgan made an appearance on “TODAY” this week and urged people to unite and stop blaming President Donald Trump as he leads America in the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Morgan was on the show to promote his new show “The Last O.G.,” and before concluding his interview, he called for Americans to come together. “People wanna criticize the president, but imagine being the president of a country and half your country got sick,” Morgan said. “So it’s difficult for him. We all gotta pull together as people. Now’s not the time for blame and all of these other things and anger. It’s here now. We gotta just be together. Jekalyn Carr’s ministry is earmarked by timeless music and timely messages. The message in “Greater is Coming” and “Something Big” encourages listeners to believe God and to expect greater. She followed up those early prophetic notes with a pointed worship song “You’re Bigger,” that turned our attention toward God and away from the challenges (health, financial, spiritual) facing each individual. The song, “You Will Win” birthed a book by the same name and challenged people’s faith to believe God and to declare they will overcome. The newly recorded live album, “Changing Your Story” is historic in Carr’s catalog. Recorded live in Atlanta, Ga, at The Cellairis Amphitheater, the event marked Carr's first outdoor live recorded event. The new single, “Changing Your Story” is a declaration and prophetic message of hope for people to know that regardless of their struggles, crises, and past, God has destined them to win and their story is forever altered by God's grace! https://www.dropbox.com/sh/nbzhr3sp3a6a1kv/AAAZy0fwN6xopfz60FLBTmXpa?dl=0&preview=Jekalyn+Carr+5+secs+Faithful.mp3 Motown Gospel/Capitol CMG proudly announces the re-signing of GRAMMY® Award-winning singer/songwriter Tasha Cobbs Leonard. The platinum-selling artist, recently named the Top Female Gospel Artist by Billboard, extends her long-standing relationships with the label and with its best-in-class publishing company, Capitol CMG Publishing. Tasha Cobbs Leonard also celebrates the launch of her own label imprint, TeeLee Records, a worship collective focused on cultivating and advancing the next generation of worship artists. “Tasha began her career mentoring other worship leaders,” explains Monica Coates, Co-Executive Director, Motown Gospel. “It is truly a joy to see her ministry passion reflected in this new business venture.” With the launch of her imprint, Tasha Cobbs Leonard announces her first signee—singer/songwriter Anna Golden. Already a celebrated independent worship artist, Golden has been a mentee of Cobbs Leonard’s since appearing on her historic 2017 album, Heart. Passion. Pursuit. Jeannie Mai and Jeezy are engaged! PEOPLE exclusively reveal that the rapper/philanthropist popped the question to The Real co-host on March 27. Jeezy (born Jay Wayne Jenkins), 42, was originally planning to propose to Mai, 41, sometime in April during a previously planned trip to Vietnam. But due to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), which has restricted travel around the globe, he decided to surprise her with a proposal during a special date night at his home in Los Angeles. Oprah Winfrey is helping to fight the coronavirus in a big way. The media mogul announced on Thursday that she is donating $10 million to COVID-19 relief efforts — $1 million of which will help those facing food insecurity during the pandemic. In a new IGTV post, Winfrey spoke with chef José Andrés, founder of World Central Kitchen, and Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America, to reveal her donation. The $1 million will benefit America’s Food Fund and the remaining $9 million will be divided among charities close to Winfrey’s heart Minnie’s Food Pantry Plano, Texas and the Boys and Girls Club Kosciusko, Mississippi. Anna Golden’s debut single on the label, “Peace,” will be available this Friday, April 10, 2020, on all digital platforms. A private heartcry from Anna’s own experiences, “Peace” quickly turned to a musical balm that she knew would speak to the waves of anxiety and depression so commonly crashing against people today. Enveloped in warm pads and ethereal strings, Golden’s voice washes over listeners like healing water. “God showed me that my voice is a gift for me, first,” shares Golden. “Then, it’s to help others.” TV One announced today that the third season of its original auto-biographical series UNCENSORED will now return in fall. The series was originally slated to premiere on Sunday, April 26. The edgy docu-series explores the private lives of some of today's most notable personalities and Season 3 is set to include actor Larenz Tate, singer/actor Tyrese, rapper/TV personality Eve, producer/TV personality Yandy Smith-Harris, actor Omari Hardwick and many more. https://www.youtube.com/user/TVOneOnline "These are very uncertain times, but even in this time of global panic we must remember that God said, He would never leave us nor forsake us! Through all the worry, fear, economic crisis, & the growing pandemic, let's put Him in remembrance of His word and declare this: It's Gonna Be Alright!" Earnest J. Lee's new song is in the Gospel Spotlight "It's Gonna Be Alright!" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hZ4CC2wLKiA&feature=youtu.be TV One continues to comfort and entertain viewers during this unprecedented time with a special Easter lineup of faith-based programming on Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12. The jubilant weekend slate includes original films SINNERS WANTED, HEAR NO EVIL, FOR THE LOVE OF RUTH, and re-airing of UNSUNG episodes featuring some of the brightest stars in gospel music including Shirley Caesar, Marvin Sapp, Tasha Cobbs-Leonard, and the group that launched the UNSUNG series - The Clark Sisters. This Easter, Lifetime presents Kim Fields in the emotional film, A Question of Faith. When a teenage girl hits a twelve-year-old boy with her car while texting, the tragedy inevitably links three families together. In the wake of the tragedy, their destiny forces them on a converging path to discover God’s love, grace and mercy as the challenges of their fate could also resurrect their beliefs. Kim Fields, Richard T. Jones and C. Thomas Howell star in the film written by Ty Manns and directed by Kevan Otto. “A Question of Faith” starring Kim Fields and Jaci Velasquez – premiering Sunday, April 12th at 8/7c on Lifetime. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=StNvFjirQks&feature=youtu.be In these uncertain times we know that words of encouragement and faith can be the one thing to help some people get through their day. Titus Showers shares a personal message for you and that he hope will be a glimmer of hope and inspiration to you and your listeners. His current single "It's Gonna Be Alright" feat Jermaine Dolly https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwEeGNOtncQ The spirit of the song "Fighting For" is to encourage and inspire people not to give up on the plan that God has for each and every one of us. Whether it's that healing you need, that breakthrough that you've been waiting on, that job, that house, that financial blessing, no matter what it is keep on fighting and trusting and believing in God and you're going to get your reward. "Fighting For" by Spiritually Anointed is a new song in the Gospel Spotlight. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZ5lPgWC3Gk&feature=youtu.be&utm_source=Spiritually+Anointed++April++2020&utm_campaign=Vote+For+Spiritually+Anointed+New+Music+%22Fighting+For%22&utm_medium=email On Location: MEMPHIS (OL:M) announces its new vision which includes a new logo and a new website. OLM International Film and Music Festival has evolved into two distinct economic drivers, the OL:M Film Market and the Memphis Music Banq (MMB). Both were developed to help filmmakers and music creators monetize their creative content. One of the most recent success stories includes MMB producer, Kirk Smith, who was contracted to score the film “Coming to Africa” by Memphis filmmaker Anwar Jamison. After creating the star-studded #HesGotTheWholeWorldChallenge to raise COVID-19 awareness, Tyler Perry decided to use some of his $600M fortune to help the staff at one of his favorite restaurants in Atlanta. Sunday, the 50-year-old movie/TV mogul left a $500 tip for each of the 42 out-of-work servers employed at the West Paces location of Houston’s while picking up a to-go order, according to TMZ. Perry’s $21K tip serves as a bit of a cushion for the struggling workers, who might have to wait up to 20 weeks for a $1,200 (and $500 for each child) stimulus check from the federal government. Singer Selena Gomez revealed she’s leaning on Scripture during the coronavirus quarantine in America. Gomez joined her former Disney Channel peer Miley Cyrus for her new show on social media called “Bright Minded.” Cyrus has been hosting interviews during the quarantine on Instagram Live. In her latest episode, she said she’s “learning things every day” amid the virus outbreak, to which Gomez responded by sharing some of the things she does to keep her mental health strong. “I read Scripture and poetry and everything and there’s just one line that says, ‘I choose to see the goodness in the land of the Lord,’ for me speaking personally and it’s because we weren’t really prepared for this specifically,” Gomez shared. “But I know that there are moments where this is where we test each other, like how are we going to treat each other?” http://www.gospel-spotlight.com In the midst of quarantine parenting, things got scary for P!nk, who tested positive for COVID-19 alongside her 3-year-old son, Jameson. The singer, who revealed her diagnosis earlier this week, had a long discussion about her family’s experience with the coronavirus with friend and author Jen Pastiloff on Instagram on Sunday (April 5). The live chat was part of a “Chat and Feed” series to raise money to feed people in need. “I haven’t dressed up in three weeks. I really needed it. Thank you for the opportunity,” P!nk said as she began to talk about this “crazy time.” “We have been really, really sick,” she noted, though they are doing better now. “My 3-year-old, Jameson, has had the worst of it. I’ve had many nights where I’ve cried and I’ve never prayed more in my life.” YNW Melly is stuck behind bars after testing positive for COVID-19, but his lawyer is trying hard to secure his release. Attorney Bradford Cohen announced he filed another motion to get Melly out of jail on Monday (April 6), detailing why his client is facing a dire situation. “Just an update we are waiting to hear from the judge regarding the release of Mr Demons to receive medical care and treatment,” Cohen wrote on Instagram. “Supplemental motion was filed today detailing the jail having Mr. Demons share a cell with another COVID19 positive inmate. This is not recommended by any medical physician.” Cohen is asking the court to allow Melly to go on house arrest because the Broward County Jail is struggling with the coronavirus pandemic. The incarcerated rapper would also pay for his own medical treatment. Pastor Rick Warren is set to host a Global Easter Pastor Prayer Gathering online simulcast in 12 languages. An unprecedented digital Global Easter Pastor Prayer Gathering of clergy worldwide, hosted by Pastor Rick and Kay Warren and led by church leaders representing each continent. During the 90-minute event, faith leaders will lead fellow pastors of all Christian denominations—including Evangelicals, Catholics, Pentecostals and Charismatics around the world—in guided prayer for families, churches, communities and their nations at the beginning of Holy Week in preparation for Easter. COVID-19 has significantly changed how churches will experience Easter this year, as for the first time in more than 2,000 years congregations all around the world will be unable to gather in-person to celebrate. Regardless of these unprecedented circumstances, the message of Easter remains the same: Jesus is the hope of the world. Monday, April 6, 2020 streaming live at 8:00 a.m. PDT/10:00 a.m. CDT/11:00 a.m. EDT. Reid Temple AME partnered with Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) and community leaders to feed 500 needy families, helping to end food insecurity in the community and showing how to reimagine service during the COVID-19, coronavirus pandemic. Saturday April 4th Reid Temple AME Church a “grab n' go grocery giveaway” took place primarily to benefit Reid Temple’s adopted PGCPS school families impacted by school closures. Reid Temple AME Pastor, Rev. Dr. Mark E. Whitlock Jr. says “no child should ever go hungry, and it is our responsibility to meet the needs of the marginalized as well as our seniors who are the most vulnerable.” Previously, on Saturday March 21, 2020, Reid Temple mobilized its ministries to feed over 100 seniors in the community and regularly makes wellness check-in calls, takes medicine and other essential items to seniors. Colts owner Jim Irsay has obtained more than 10,000 N95 masks that he plans to have distributed to medical people, he announced on Twitter on Sunday. Irsay is donating the masks to the Indiana State Department of Health so that they can be distributed to hospitals most in need. The N95s are respiratory masks used to help protect doctors and nurses working with COVID-19 patients. The masks have been in short supply for health care workers and first responders across the country as they continue to fight the coronavirus pandemic. Former New Orleans Saints kicker Tom Dempsey, who famously made a 63-yard field goal in 1970 despite being born without toes on his right kicking foot, has died due to complications of the coronavirus, his daughter said. He was 73. Ashley Dempsey said Sunday that her father tested positive for the coronavirus a little more than a week ago. Dempsey had been battling Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. He was a resident at the Lambeth House senior living center in New Orleans, which has been hit hard by the virus. More than 50 residents have been affected, according to NOLA.com. Award-winning contemporary Christian singer Jeremy Camp and his wife, Adrienne, are encouraging Christians to stay focused of Jesus amid the coronavirus pandemic because He is “in it all, right here with us.” In an interview with The Christian Post, Camp said he’s “learned a lot” about himself and the faithfulness of God as COVID-19 continues to sweep across the United States. “In these times, I’ve loved John 16:33, where Jesus says we shouldn’t be surprised when we go through trials and says, ‘I tell you these things so you will have peace,’” Camp told CP. “He’s essentially telling us, ‘Guys, you’ll have trials in this life, whatever they may be. That’s a guarantee. But take heart: I’ve overcome the world." Logan Williams, a 16-year-old actor who appeared on the CW superhero series “The Flash” as a young Barry Allen, has died, according to his family. The actor’s mother, Marlyse Williams, confirmed the news of her son’s death to the Tri-City News. No cause of death was provided, though Williams was said to have died suddenly Thursday. Williams appeared in eight episodes of “The Flash” during its first two seasons — including the series pilot — as a younger version of Grant Gustin’s titular DC Comics hero. Other acting credits include the Hallmark series “When Calls the Heart,” as well as guest spots on “The Whispers” and “Supernatural.” Kobe Bryant will be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Saturday. Tim Duncan and Kevin Garnett will also be inducted as well. A five-time NBA champion and 18-time All-Star. Bryant starred at Lower Merion High School, winning the PIAA Class 4A state championship in 1996 and declaring for the NBA draft. “The Big Fundamental” (Duncan) and “The Big Ticket” (Garnett) are two of the all-time great power forwards. Duncan won five championships and two MVP awards with the Spurs, while Garnett took home MVP honors in 2004 and won the NBA title in 2008 after being traded from the Timberwolves to the Celtics. Both players were selected to 15 All-Star games. Like Bryant, Garnett entered the NBA directly from high school. Bill Withers, who wrote and sang a string of soulful songs in the 1970s that have stood the test of time, including “Lean on Me,” “Lovely Day” and “Ain’t No Sunshine,” has died from heart complications. He was 81. The three-time Grammy Award winner, who withdrew from making music in the mid-1980s, died on Monday in Los Angeles, the statement said. His death comes as the public has drawn inspiration from his music during the coronavirus pandemic, with health care workers, choirs, artists and more posting their own renditions of “Lean on Me” to help get through the difficult times. CLEO TV puts an island twist on breakfast in bed on the next episode of JUST EATS WITH CHEF JJ this Saturday, April 4 at 12 P.M. ET/11C. Vinnie of the multi-platinum hip-hop trio Naughty By Nature, shares fun facts about the group's Harlem influence and reflects on their legacy as he prepares for the 25th anniversary of the Grammy Award-winning album Poverty's Paradise. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uxUbGkLeEZ8&feature=youtu.be ALL THINGS ADRIENNE WITH ADRIENNE HOUGHTON TANTALIZES THE TASTE BUDS WITH A MYSTERY SMOOTHIE CHALLENGE AT 1 P.M. ET/12C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0pJBXUNFM5E&feature=youtu.be THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE ARE JOINED BY SPECIAL GUEST SINGERS Q PARKER, MICHEL'LE AND COUPLE MONTELL & KRISTIN JORDAN PLUS MORE! JOIN THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE FOR THE NEWLY LAUNCHED BEYOND THE CIRCLE PRE-SHOW WITH SPECIAL GUESTS LETOYA LUCKETT, JONATHAN MCREYNOLDS AND MORE DAILY AT 11:30 A.M. ET ON @SISTERCIRCLETV INSTAGRAM LIVE In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, Bishop Leonard Scott and Lady Scott want to spread words of encouragement through the singing of hymns and other great Gospel music. Join them on Facebook and Instagram live at 5pm EST on any given weekday! For perhaps the first time in history the Patriots logo is a welcome site in New York on Friday as 300,000 N95 medical masks have been shipped to the city’s healthcare workers on a team truck after owner Robert Kraft flew 1.2 million masks in from China to address shortages in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. The 300,000 masks were delivered to Manhattan’s Javits Center, which has been converted into a hospital for people infected with COVID-19. The masks have been in short supply amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic as states along with the federal government have been trying to outbid each other for the sorely needed medical supplies. The GRAMMY®-nominated and electrifying choir director Ricky Dillard brings choir music back to the choir stands with his Motown Gospel album debut, Choirmaster, available for preorder across all digital platforms today. Joined by his choir, New G, Dillard shines on his new project, which includes the already-popular radio single “Release” featuring Tiff Joy, the mid-tempo choir groove “Since He Came,” and the remake of a New G classic on “More Abundantly Medley.” As a prayer for the uncertain times the world is facing, Ricky Dillard also releases the fourth song and live performance video from the new album today—the passionate “Let There Be Peace On Earth.” http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/album_rvw.htm Thirty years ago, on April 3rd, En Vogue started its reign as one of the most successful female vocal groups of all time with the release of Born to Sing. Today, Rhino revisits their 1990 debut album on BORN TO SING: 30th ANNIVERSARY EXPANDED EDITION, a 21-track collection that includes a newly remastered version of the original album, plus a selection of rare mixes, most of which are available digitally for the first time. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mOxRMNfi-fo Some churches are insisting on having services, despite several states demanding people practice social distancing as one way to stop the rampant spread of the coronavirus pandemic. Reverend Al Sharpton is now speaking directly to Black churches who have not heeded the warning and asking pastors and parishioners alike to stay away from public services. Sharpton wrote on Twitter, “I convened a call with the heads of the nation’s largest historically Black religious denominations & other faith leaders to call on clergy to refrain from having church services as we head into Palm Sunday and Easter Holy Week.” Taraji P. Henson is putting wedding planning on the backburner as the coronavirus continues to take its toll. The actress recently revealed that she’s mourning the death of her uncle whom she suspects suffered from coronavirus complications. It’s been an overwhelming time for the Coffee & Kareem star who is engaged to Kelvin Hayden. Their June nuptial date has now been pushed back another month to July. https://youtu.be/C8iQ41o1Zn0 The GRAMMY®-nominated and electrifying choir director Ricky Dillard brings choir music back to the choir stands with his Motown Gospel album debut, Choirmaster, available for preorder across all digital platforms today. Joined by his choir, New G, Dillard shines on his new project, which includes the already-popular radio single “Release” featuring Tiff Joy, the mid-tempo choir groove “Since He Came,” and the remake of a New G classic on “More Abundantly Medley.” As a prayer for the uncertain times the world is facing, Ricky Dillard also releases the fourth song and live performance video from the new album today—the passionate “Let There Be Peace On Earth.” New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, led by pastor Jamal Bryant, announced Thursday that it canceled a two-day drive-thru event at the church where up to 1,000 people would have been tested for COVID-19 for a fee of $150 each. In a statement posted on the church’s Facebook page and shared with local media, the church said it decided to postpone the event that was scheduled for April 4-5 to comply with an executive order expected to be signed by Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp on Thursday. Sierra Ward-Pope is a powerful, anointed psalmist who delivers a soulful yet traditional style of Gospel music and exudes an irrefutable essence that connects with every listener. Sierra is recognized for her incredible commanding presence as a singer in the 2X Stellar Award-winning group Lisa Knowles & The Brown Singers, in which she has been a member since 2004. In 2015, Sierra accepted her calling in the ministry as an evangelist. Sierra currently serves weekly as a Praise and Worship leader at Riverside Baptist Church in Memphis, TN. In addition to singing with The Brown Singers, Sierra now makes her debut as a solo artist. Her first single “But God” is showcasing her prowess as a principal singer and maturity as a Gospel artist. New Angelo & Veronica Single Coming Easter Sunday, April 12th! "No Fear." https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/veronicapetrucci/no-fear-acoustic-re-mastered “Blessed Assurance” is one of the quintessential sacred hymns sang throughout churches of various denominations and cultures. Hymns like "Blessed Assurance" have been passed down through generations and have been interpreted creatively and respectfully re-arranged. The Fresh Anointing young adult choir of Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church has put their contemporary dynamism on the hymn and released it as their new single. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tlx2A9xFHJQ&feature=youtu.be TV One's newest night of true-crime programming, True Crime Thursdays, launches with the return of an all new season of FOR MY MAN premiering Thursday, April 23 at 9 p.m. ET. The Thursday night expansion joins the network's signature True-Crime Mondays programming slate currently airing all-new episodes of FATAL ATTRACTION on Monday nights at 9 p.m. ET. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktueA9nrw4c&feature=youtu.be The cast of Frasier have reunited for an hour-long YouTube video for the Stars in the House channel to raise money for The Actors Fund during the coronavirus pandemic. Kelsey Grammer, who played the elitist psychiatrist Frasier Crane in the beloved sitcom, attended the reunion via video link, along with co-stars David Hyde Pierce, Jane Leeves, Peri Gilpin, Dan Butler and Bebe Neuwirth. https://youtu.be/GBM_mpTjbaM A former recruiter at Facebook hired to diversify its workforce has filed a $100m lawsuit against the social media giant, alleging she was discriminated against based on her race and disability, as well as harassed. Anastasia Boone Talton and her legal representatives filed the complaint against Facebook with California’s Superior Court of San Mateo on 17 March. According to court documents filed by Boone Talton, the complaint for damages accuses Facebook of eight offences including discrimination and harassment, failure to accommodate her disability, retaliation, wrongful termination and breach of contract. She has requested a trial by jury. Ellis Marsalis Jr., a jazz pianist from New Orleans, died Wednesday night from complications due to coronavirus, his son, Branford Marsalis, confirmed in a statement to Variety. He was 85. In addition to having his own prominent music career, Marsalis helped pave the way for four of his sons, Wynton, Branford, Delfeayo and Jason, to enter the music industry. Wynton is a trumpeter and Jazz at Lincoln Center’s managing and artistic director; Branford plays the saxophone; Delfeayo is a trombonist; and Jason plays the drums. Earnest Pugh set to drop "The Outpour Experience," a highly anticipated Live disc. He also released a lead single, "God Wants To Heal You," with a concept video on his YouTube channel. "The Outpour Experience" will be available for pre-order Friday, April 10th with early purchasers receiving two grat tracks "God Wants To Heal You" and the new Easter anthem "Grateful." Pugh has used his down time to connect with his loyal fan base, hosting at home worship as well as his affinity for southern comfort food via vignettes on YouTube. Pugh will host a virtual listening party Friday, April 10th via social media Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. He will perform two songs from the album in addition to a 15-minute question and answer session from fans and friends. "The Outpour Experience" is Earnest Pugh’s 12th CD and features guest performances from Amber Bullock and Dr. Betty Griffin Keller. "The Outpour Experience" will be available on all digital outlets on May 22nd. The “TODAY” show’s Craig Melvin, who has returned from a voluntary quarantine after being potentially exposed to the new coronavirus, asked Texas megachurch pastor and televangelist, Bishop T.D. Jakes, to pray on “MSNBC Live,” saying he’s “never done this on the air” but many are not being able to attend church. blob:https://www.msnbc.com/a60256a6-4d5d-4741-8d29-2c19016c868b Dolly Parton announced Monday that she will be launching a video series during which she will read bedtime stories to children in order to provide them with a “welcome distraction during a time of unrest.” https://youtu.be/3ia-ozHDaLs Dolly Parton is stepping up to help fight the coronavirus. Wednesday, the entertainment icon said she has donated $1 million to Vanderbilt Hospital as it fights to find a treatment for COVID-19. “My longtime friend Dr. Naji Abumrad, who’s been involved in research at Vanderbilt for many years, informed me that they were making some exciting advancements towards research of the coronavirus for a cure,” wrote Parton. “I am making a donation of $1 million to Vanderbilt towards that research.” The Wimbledon Championships have been canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic, the All England Club announced Wednesday. It is the first time Wimbledon has been canceled since World War II in 1945. It is also the first time since the tournament began in 1877 that the event will not be played during peacetime. Wimbledon had been scheduled to run from June 29 to July 12. Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic was heavily criticized for sharing a racist video against Albanians. As it turns out, the Mavs youngster did not completely comprehend the clip he had shared and quickly took down the video as soon as he realized his mistake. The 6-foot-7 guard also made a public apology and made it clear that he did not have any intention of promoting racism. Longtime NFL agent Buddy Baker has lost his not one but both of his parents to COVID-19, he announced Tuesday afternoon. Baker posted a video to Twitter sharing the news and imploring viewers: Take CDC and social-distancing measures seriously. “As many of you know my parents recently contracted COVID-19 and unfortunately passed away this past Sunday due to complications,” Baker said in the video. “My parents were amazing people. They were married 51-plus years and they passed away six minutes apart. “Just a few weeks ago, they were in perfect health.” Entertainment One (eOne) and JamesTown Music announce the release of JJ Hairston’s new single, “Excess Love Remix (feat. Mercy Chinwo)” lifted from the Stellar Award-nominated album, Miracle Worker. JJ Hairston who now serves with his wife, Trina Hairston as co-pastors of All Nations Worship Assembly Live District of Columbia, is a GRAMMY nominated, Billboard Music Award winner, and a seven-time Stellar Award winner. Hairston’s latest offering “Excess Love Remix” features lead vocals by Nigeria native powerhouse vocalist Mercy Chinwo. The single was recorded live in Abuja, Nigeria at COZA Church for Hairston’s tenth Billboard chart-topping album, “Miracle Worker. The Gospel Spotlight's Bryan Andrew Wilson and "With every Beat Of My Heart." https://www.dropbox.com/sh/fv5dm6g860qxo0y/AAAFNi1yj9VPpugZGr2f3V5Ia?dl=0 TV One's award-winning documentary series UNSUNG shines a spotlight on the story of 70s R&B music queen, Betty Wright, this Sunday, April 5 at 10 p.m. ET/9C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzPAv7LZa0c&feature=youtu.be Chart-Topping Stellar, Dove & BMI Awarding-Winning Producer & Recording Artist Isaac Carree Returns With First CD In 7 Years No Risk No Reward ! Guests Include Kirk Franklin, Zacardi Cortez, Lisa Knowles, Jazze Pha, ?Mr. Talkbox & Others! No Risk No Reward debuted at #1 on the Gospel Albums Chart and #4 on Gospel/Christian Albums Chart. JOIN Isaac CARREE FRIDAY FOR INTIMATE ALBUM RELEASE CELEBRATION. (Facebook.com/isaaccarree) This Friday 7pmhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZMWXgjffyc The Gospel Spotlight's Gregory D & Company "MY TIME" https://www.dropbox.com/sh/4n5foxpsvhk6ndp/AADzBXNqGWszXr7koL6gLbkua?dl=0 Members of Britain's gospel music community and singers from a gospel background have joined forces to record a song of hope to encourage the nation during this pandemic and period of self-isolation and lockdown. The project is the brainchild of MOBO award winning gospel singer Lurine Cato. Lurine enlisted the support of producer/musician Kenton Reid and they got in contact with artists from across the UK, the Caribbean and Europe who all agreed to take part. The roll call included Royal wedding lead singer Paul Lee, Kingdom choir member Wayne Ellington, X Factor runner Up Jaheme Douglas, X Factor finalist Shan Ako, former Voice contestants Roger Samuels, Janine Dyer, Jason Nicholas Porter and 2020 Voice participant Shezar, recording artist Tony Momrell, Brit award nominee Rachel McFarlane, Shezar, worship singers Yolanda Antonia, Noel Robinson and many more. Vanessa Bryant took to Instagram Tuesday (March 31) to celebrate the release of her late husband’s “Wizenard” book series, a fantastical tale set in the world of basketball. Prior to his untimely passing, Kobe Bryant worked on the “The Wizenard Series: Season One” with his creative partner, author Wesley King. “He was much more involved than people might imagine,” says King, who was also Bryant’s collaborator on the 2019 bestselling young-adult novel “Training Camp.”“There were many weeks where it was two, three, four phone calls a day, and 5,000 text messages. Kobe texted more than anyone in history of existence,” King tells PEOPLE. Through his book projects, Bryant hoped to inspire generations to come. “It almost sounds cliché, but he’d say, ‘If one kid picks this book up and finds the faith in himself to persevere, we did our job … We’re doing this for that one kid’,” he says. “Kobe really believed that.” A new docu-series titled, “Behind Her Faith,” created by writer/director Paula Bryant-Ellis, has found a home at the Urban Movie Channel (UMC), the first and leading streaming service for Black film and television from AMC Networks’ RLJ Entertainment. The docuseries will look at the power of faith and its driving force on successful women in entertainment, sports, music, business, politics and ministry. “Behind Her Faith” will spotlight women who are not afraid to wear their faith on their sleeve, so to speak, and speak openly and candidly about it. Although the women featured in the series come from different walks of life, they all have one thing in common: that is, the conscious decision to put their faith first without fear or regret. “Behind Her Faith” is set to premiere on Thursday, March 26, 2020. Kicking off with a four-episode order, the first installment of “Behind Her Faith” will feature familiar faces from the big and small screens – that is Essence Atkins (“Ambitions,” “Marlon”); Aisha Hinds (“9-1-1,” “Underground,” “The Hate U Give”); Niecy Nash (“Claws,” “When They See Us” and “Reno 911”); and media mogul Angelica Nwandu, founder of The Shade Room. Each episode will spotlight the #BlackGirlMagic of each woman as they open up to viewers about their greatest achievements and biggest successes as well as their toughest disappointments and most heartbreaking moments, sharing their life lessons and triumphs along the way. Members of Britain's gospel music community and singers from a gospel background have joined forces to record a song of hope to encourage the nation during this pandemic and period of self-isolation and lockdown. The project is the brainchild of MOBO award winning gospel singer Lurine Cato. Lurine enlisted the support of producer/musician Kenton Reid and they got in contact with artists from across the UK, the Caribbean and Europe who all agreed to take part. The roll call included Royal wedding lead singer Paul Lee, Kingdom choir member Wayne Ellington, X Factor runner Up Jaheme Douglas, X Factor finalist Shan Ako, former Voice contestants Roger Samuels, Janine Dyer, Jason Nicholas Porter and 2020 Voice participant Shezar, recording artist Tony Momrell, Brit award nominee Rachel McFarlane, Shezar, worship singers Yolanda Antonia, Noel Robinson and many more. Check out Keyla Richardson "Corona Can't Hold Me down." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6pg4KHAAjE&feature=youtu.be This was supposed to be a very different story. When Alex Morgan, World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist, announced she was pregnant following the epic victory tour of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team (USWNT) last summer, she followed it up with a goal so audacious you’d have to be a little crazy to believe it: Be physically and mentally ready—Olympian ready—to play for the United States and win a gold medal in Tokyo mere weeks after giving birth. No pressure. https://media.glamour.com/clips/5e7d15f9a929010008a7cd83/1080p/pass/GL-AM-LEDE-0326.mp4 New York state now has 75,795 cases of coronavirus – an increase of 9,298 since Monday – and 1550 have died, Governor Andrew Cuomo revealed on Tuesday as he admitted ‘no one knows’ when the pandemic will end and said the entire country ‘underestimated it’. Speaking at a wide-ranging press conference on Tuesday, Gov. Cuomo told of how he was unifying the state’s private and public healthcare systems to operate as one before the pandemic ‘apex’ in the state hits. James Dolan, the owner of the New York Knicks and the New York Rangers, has tested positive for the coronavirus, his NBA team said in a statement Saturday night. The Knicks said that Dolan, 64, is experiencing “little to no symptoms” and is self-isolating. He is the first U.S. major pro sports owner known to have tested positive for the virus. Widely hailed as the right thing to do for student-athlete welfare, the NCAA has decided to extend spring sports athletes’ eligibility a year because of the coronavirus pandemic. In light of the COVID-19 global pandemic, Central City Productions, Inc. the producers of the Stellar Gospel Music Awards brings you an uplifting and encouraging two-hour musical special, The Stellar Awards: Music of Hope. Hosted by multiple Stellar and Grammy-award winning artist, Kirk Franklin, the Stellar Awards: Music of Hope special features songs of from previous Stellar Awards classic performances by: Tamela Mann, Donnie McClurkin, Michelle Williams featuring Beyonce’ and Kelly Rowland, Marvin Sapp, Lecrae, Canton Jones, Da’ T.R.U.T.H., Yolanda Adams, Bebe and Cece Winans, Hezekiah Walker, Mary Mary, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Jonathan McReynolds, Pastor Shirley Caesar, Brian Courtney Wilson, Patti LaBelle, Ricky Dillard, Karen Clark Sheard, VaShawn Mitchell, Sarah Reeves, Jonathan Butler, Tramaine Hawkins, Travis Greene, Dottie Peoples and Israel Houghton.The Stellar Awards: Music of Hope Special will air around the country in broadcast syndication from April 11 through May 24 in more than 216 markets and on Bounce TV May 24th at 12PM EST (noon). www.stellarawards.com. Michigan’s Genesee County is in mourning as a bishop, a pastor and an elder are among the four people who have died of the new coronavirus. Bishop Robert Earl Smith Sr., pastor Kevelin Jones of Bountiful Love Ministries, and elder Freddie Brown, all from Flint, have died over the past few days. https://cdn.christianpost.com/files/cache/image/13/85/138511_w_760_392.png The CARES Act was signed into law, which provides financial assistance to both 501(c)(3) organizations and small businesses employing under 500 employees. Within the $2.2 trillion CARES Act, $350 billion is targeted for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funding 2 ½ months of an organization’s average monthly payroll costs (including benefits) as a loan. This loan can be forgiven if the size of the organization’s workforce remains the same in 2020 as it was in 2019. Prepping for the release of his new CD "Nothing Else Matters", gospel star Brent Jones is featured on rap superstar Childish Gambino's new critically-acclaimed album "3.15.20", the highly anticipated follow-up to Donald Glover's 4-time Grammy Award-winning "This Is America", which became the first rap album in history to win Song of the Year as well as Album of the Year (2019 Grammys). https://youtu.be/gezFLhUznSk Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have just about waved farewell to every aspect of their senior royal duties. They've wrapped up their final engagements and moved across the pond. Now they're saying goodbye: from their Sussex Royal Instagram account. March 30, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex posted their final message on to IG. “Yet we are confident that every human being has the potential and opportunity to make a difference—as seen now across the globe, in our families, our communities and those on the front line—together we can lift each other up to realize the fullness of that promise. What’s most important right now is the health and well-being of everyone across the globe and finding solutions for the many issues that have presented themselves as a result of this pandemic.” "As we all find the part we are to play in this global shift and changing of habits, we are focusing this new chapter to understand how we can best contribute," they continued. "While you may not see us here, the work continues." "Thank you to this community—for the support, the inspiration, and the shared commitment to the good in the world. We look forward to reconnecting with you soon. You’ve been great. Until then, please take good care of yourselves, and of one another." The couple signed the post simply, "Harry and Meghan." TV One celebrates Holy Week with the cable-television premiere of SINNERS WANTED on Palm Sunday, April 5 at 4 P.M. ET/3C with encore airings on Saturday, April 11 at 12 P.M. EST/11C and Easter Sunday, April 12 at 4 P.M. EST/3C. The award-winning film features an all-star cast ensemble including Lamman Rucker, Traci Braxton, Clifton Powell, Roland Martin, Tasha Cobbs-Leonard, Joseph Curtis Calendar, Hope Blackstock, Tiana Melvina Woods, and Nasir Rhamim. The movie tells the story of Leo Shepherd (Kenneth Wayne), an unconventional pastor ridiculed by his hypocritical congregation after rescuing and falling in love with Gigi (Ashley Rios), a woman with a troubled past. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-AMdva7-Jw&feature=youtu.be Award-winning, international Gospel Artist Chevelle Franklyn is set to release her latest worship single and music video, “Go In Your Strength,” this week Friday, April 3 and the track is available now for pre-order. To encourage listeners coping with the global COVID-19 pandemic, Franklyn also released a bonus track, “I Prevail” March 25 on all major digital platforms. The moving worship songs offer fans a preview of her highly-anticipated full-length album, South Wind Vol. 1, expected for release later in 2020. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPiY2IbQEWo&feature=youtu.be The feelings that we express are given to us by God, and to repress those emotions is to suppress Him. When we put all of our trials on God’s shoulders, it doesn’t mean that they will be done by our time, but by His. So, don’t mistake God’s timing for lack of investment in you; instead, it is Him knowing what you need and what time you need it. Bishop T.D. Jakes preachers "Strange Tears." https://youtu.be/tVeKk3OEEek Today’s message encourages us to trade our worries for faith. You are not alone. We are in this together. Tony Evans preaches on "Don't Worry." https://youtu.be/0qmEfqo1xPE Alan Merrill, who penned the anthem “I Love Rock ‘N’ Roll” that became an era-defining hit for fellow rocker Joan Jett, has died of complications from coronavirus at age 69. Daughter Laura Merrill announced her father’s death on Facebook Sunday, hours after leaving his New York City hospital room. Billie Eilish, Mariah Carey, Alicia Keys and Dave Grohl opened their doors — literally — as the musicians performed from their homes for an hour-long benefit concert to raise money for those affected by the coronavirus crisis. Keys kicked off the Sunday event — which also honored health professionals and first responders — singing her song “Underdog” from a piano in her home. She thanked those “risking their lives to keep us safe.” Carey, one of the last performers, sang “Always Be My Baby” from her home studio in New York, then told the audience she was going to put on gloves. Elton John sang and also hosted the special that aired on Fox and iHeartMedia radio stations; he said he hoped “this entertainment will feed and fuel your soul.” Elmo, Rooster and Cookie Monster are doing their part to help keep kids safe as the coronavirus pandemic grinds on. The beloved Sesame Street Muppets are featured in some of four new animated public service spots reminding young fans to take care while doing such things as washing hands and sneezing. One of Elmo’s signature songs, the toothbrush classic “Brushy Brush,” has been updated to “Washy Wash.”Rooster pops up in another of the 30-second spots to remind kids to “wash hands now” before eating, playing sports or using the bathroom. The new content on SesameStreet.org/caring builds on last week’s launch of Sesame Workshop’s Caring for Each Other initiative to help families stay physically and mentally healthy during the health crisis. The overall project ranges from messages of comfort to learning activities in reading, math and science. Dr. Fauci Predicts That America’s Coronavirus Plague Death Toll Will Be Over 100,000 to Possibly 200,000. https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/03/29/15/26551500-8165019-image-m-5_1585493361199.jpg When singer and actress Alicia Keys found out she was pregnant with her second son, she initially felt there was no way she could see the pregnancy through. As Keys wrestled with what to do, the words of a song she and her husband had written together encouraged her that she had the strength to handle having a baby, despite the timing. “While I was struggling over my choice,” she said, “I went into the studio one evening and began listening to ‘More Than We Know’…The lyrics are about how we’re capable of so much more than we can ever imagine.” Listening to the song moved the singer to tears. She said, “For me, the song was a powerful message that I should go on with the pregnancy.” Kourtney Kardashian appeared to suggest the coronavirus was God punishing people for ‘evil’ behavior. The reality star, 40, took to her Instagram Stories and shared a highlighted passage from the Bible which had ‘Pay attention children’ written above it. The passage reads: ‘Whenever I hold back the rain or send locusts to eat up the crops or send an epidemic on my people, if they pray to me and repent and turn away from the evil they have been doing, then I will hear them in heaven, forgive their sins, and make their land prosperous again.’ Kourtney seems to have a lot of theories about the virus as she also shared a passage from a 2008 book called End of Days in which psychic Sylvia Browne predicted the rise of a global pandemic. Selena Gomez performed a make-up free, sweats-clad cover of Elevation Worship’s The Blessing, featuring Christian-crooning couple Kari Jobe and Cody Carnes, while at home in quarantine from the coronavirus on Saturday. https://video.dailymail.co.uk/preview/mol/2020/03/29/2075950195217446606/636x382_MP4_2075950195217446606.mp4 Garth Brooks and wife Trisha Yearwood will be taking viewer requests during a live prime-time show this week filmed at their home. CBS will air the special, “Garth and Trisha: Live!” on Wednesday at 9 p.m. Eastern. In an announcement Sunday, CBS says the country stars will perform “an intimate concert for viewers looking for the comfort and shared joy of music during this difficult time.” The inspiration came from a live show that Brooks performed from his studio last week that attracted millions of viewers and caused Facebook Live to crash multiple times. Myron Rolle has gone from Tennessee Titans safety to doctor on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. The former Florida State football player and Rhodes scholar is now a third-year resident at Massachusetts General Hospital. Rolle, a neurosurgery resident, is now in the position to help during the pandemic since operating rooms are being turned into ICUs because of the increasing number of coronavirus patients. After graduating from college in 2 1/2 years, Rolle spent his senior year at Oxford University after receiving one of the 32 Rhodes Scholarships awarded each year. Rolle earned a Masters of Science Degree in Medical Anthropology. He was then drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the sixth round in 2010, but never played a regular season game. In 2013, Rolle decided to retire and pursue a medical degree. Pastor Gerald Allen Releases New Single: "The Lord Is My Help" https://www.dropbox.com/s/19bqwhzufxh9e8v/Gerald%20Allen%20The%20Lord%20Is%20My%20Help.mp3?dl=0 After Bishop T. D. Jakes was interviewed on CNN, he thought he was set up to share a word to those affected by the coronavirus plague. https://youtu.be/T_OyjxUwfX4 The nation’s top doctor urged faith leaders to follow federal guidelines and partner with local health officials as they learn new ways to lead congregants coping with the coronavirus pandemic. Evangelical and humanitarian assistance leaders offered pointers and encouragement to church leaders in the first day of a two-day summit by releasing videos on topics ranging from advocacy for the vulnerable to crisis communications. Earlier this month, LeToya Luckett and hubby Tommicus Walker revealed that they are expecting their second child. Now, the couple has shared the baby’s gender. Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the couple was unable to host an in-person gender reveal party, so Luckett took to Instagram Live to share the news with family, friends, and fans. So, is the couple expecting a boy or a girl? Drumroll, please…it’s a boy! While both parents were over the moon with the news, Walker just couldn’t contain his excitement as he jumped for joy around the house. “This is so exciting. We are having a boy,” Luckett said. New Orleans Saints’ quarterback Drew Brees and his wife, Brittany, are committing a donation of $5 million to the state of Louisiana to fight COVID-19. According to Faithwire, along with his generous donation, Brees will also be working with multiple partnering companies “to prepare and deliver over 10,000 meals per day throughout Louisiana for as long as it takes to children on meal programs, seniors, and families in need.” The Rev. Joseph E. Lowery, a veteran civil rights leader who helped the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. found the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and fought against racial discrimination, died Friday, a family statement said. He was 98. A charismatic and fiery preacher, Lowery led the SCLC for two decades — restoring the organization’s financial stability and pressuring businesses not to trade with South Africa’s apartheid-era regime — before retiring in 1997. Lowery, considered the dean of civil rights veterans, lived to celebrate a November 2008 milestone that few of his movement colleagues thought they would ever witness — the election of an African American president. After an incredible debut in 2019, Nashville Life Music will release their first full-length album, Here For Jesus, May 15. This follows their hit EP, Taylor House Sessions, which produced a Top 5 single and GMA Dove Award nominated song, "My God (feat. Mr. Talkbox).” In anticipation of their project, today the group is releasing a new single, "Shepherd (feat. Leeland)," a tender ballad about Jesus' relentless, sacrificial love for us. https://nashvillelife.lnk.to/Shepherd SISTER CIRCLE IS JOINED BY BEN AFFLECK, MUSIC GROUP THE HAMILTONES AND MORE! NBA Timberwolves All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns says the coronavirus “should not be taken lightly” and revealed his mother is in a coma due to COVID-19. Towns told his 2 million followers that his mother was “deteriorating daily” and every time there seemed to be progress her health would switch and take a turn for the worse. She’s is currently on a ventilator while in a medically induced coma. Before making the announcement on his mother’s health, Towns donated $100,000 to support Mayo Clinic, which has begun rolling out a test to detect the virus that causes COVID-19. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has tested positive for the new coronavirus, the first leader of a major nation to contract COVID-19, but he insisted Friday that he remains in charge of the U.K.’s response to the outbreak. Two of Johnson’s top aides in the fight against the virus — his health secretary and top medical adviser — also said they had the disease. Johnson, 55, said he was tested Thursday after showing “mild symptoms”: a temperature and a persistent cough. Fred “Curly” Neal, the dribbling wizard who entertained millions with the Harlem Globetrotters for parts of three decades, has died. He was 77. The Globetrotters said Neal died in his home outside of Houston on Thursday morning. Neal played for the Globetrotters from 1963-85, appearing in more than 6,000 games in 97 countries for the exhibition team known for its combination of comedy and athleticism. He became one of five Globetrotters to have his jersey retired when his No. 22 was lifted to the rafters during a special ceremony at Madison Square Garden in 2008. Houston Rockets guard Russell Westbrook is enjoying spending time with his family during the NBA’s coronavirus hiatus, while his foundation is working to provide relief from the pandemic in LA. Madam C.J. Walker may be one of America’s most successful “pull yourself up by your own bootstrap” stories, but many have never heard of her. However, that’s changing, thanks to the recent release of a Netflix limited series starring Octavia Spencer. “Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker,” which also stars Blair Underwood, Tiffany Haddish, Bill Bellamy and Carmen Ejogo, tells the story of America’s first female millionaire, who was also black, at the turn of the 20th century. Her path to riches would be noteworthy in any era, but it’s particularly impressive given the discrimination and roadblocks women and blacks had to endure at the time. Walker, whose real name was Sarah Breedlove, created and marketed hair products for African American women at the turn of the 20th century. The four-part drama is based on the book “On Her Own Ground” by author and journalist A’Lelia Bundles, Walker’s great-great granddaughter. Kathy Griffin says she hasn’t been able to get tested for the coronavirus despite her “unbearably painful symptoms.” The 59-year-old comedian revealed on Twitter Wednesday that she’s been sent to a “COVID-19 isolation ward in a major hospital ER” after visiting an urgent care facility. She shared a picture of herself laying in a hospital bed wearing a mask, although it’s unclear when the photo was taken. Despite experiencing symptoms consistent with the coronavirus, Griffin said her attempts to get tested have been unsuccessful. Ben Tankard's current album RISE! earned him18th Stellar Gospel Music Award nomination and his first #1 single on the Smooth Jazz Radio chart. His new fresh single "Passionfruit" is also rapidly being added to playlists and is climbing up the radio chart. "Passionfruit" is Tankards savvy cover of the 2017 hit by Drake. "Passionfruit" is the #1 most added Smooth Jazz radio song this week. The single is the second hit from RISE! and has helped Tankard receive two 2020 Steeple Award Nominations for CD of the Year and Best Collaboration Performance (w/Kurt Whalum, "It’s Working"). The 5th Annual Steeple Awards will be handed out August 1st in Atlanta, GA. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57YRWrExMa0&feature=youtu.be CLEO TV'S JUST EATS WITH CHEF JJ WHIPS UP FOOD FOR THE SOUL WITH GRAMMY-NOMINATED BROADWAY STAR JAWAN JACKSON, FOOD & SPICE INFLUENCER KANCHAN KOYA, AND TV PERSONALITY SHARON CARPENTER ON SATURDAY, MARCH 28 AT 12 P.M. ET/11C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFonWEC7z6w&feature=youtu.be ALL THINGS ADRAIENNE WITH ADRIENNE HOUGHTON Gets Personal When Adrienne Houghton Answers Fans Burning Questions at 1 P.M. ET/12C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpSdSykYDkY&feature=youtu.be T.D. Jakes Comforts a Shaken Nation on CNN’s ‘New Day’ https://twitter.com/NewDay/status/1243147431786807296 Duchess Meghan is returning to the entertainment world. Days after she and Prince Harry are scheduled to officially step back as senior members of the royal family, the former actress’ voice will appear as the narrator on the Disneynature film “Elephant,” marking her return to Hollywood. The feature-length film will premiere April 3 on Disney+ along with “Dolphin Reef,” a previously announced Disneynature film narrated by Natalie Portman. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam is pleading with Liberty University’s president to reconsider a move reopening the campus during the COVID-19 pandemic, saying it’s risking lives and sending students the wrong message. Liberty University President Jerry Falwell, Jr. said this week the campus would reopen for students and employees, although classes would continue to be given online. As of Thursday, 460 people statewide had tested positive for the coronavirus and 13 had died. Suddenly, in the space of a week, parents have become the long-term replacement teachers who needs to ramp up quickly on EVERYTHING! In addition to transforming your home into a classroom, the new Common Core Math must be taught by who? YOU!!! “If the new-school Common Core Math seems tougher than the old school math, it's because ...well...it is. But no worries, I got you!” laughs CARL BRISTER, a New Jersey educator and rising R&B artist who has created a “Parents Guide To Home School Success” to help out students and parents turned homeschool teachers. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGd2vDsupc0&feature=youtu.be Arizona Cardinals All-Pro linebacker Chandler Jones is donating 150,000 meals to food banks in Arizona and his hometown of Endicott, New York, to help families dealing with the coronavirus pandemic. Jones said in a statement that “these are really tough times and it is important for me to do my part and help out both here in Arizona and back at home in New York. There are a lot of people in need and everything we can do as a community makes a difference.” Jones set a Cardinals franchise record with 19 sacks last season. Todd Dulaney Presents A Live Performance Event Friday 3.27! This SUNDAY Deitrick Haddon Presents his CORONA RELIEF Concert! https://vimeo.com/400768930 Gospel Music Icon FRED HAMMOND surprised fans on Tuesday Night, March 24th with a Social Distancing Mini Concert Live in Dallas, TX (At The Warehouse). https://www.facebook.com/therealfredhammondfanpage/videos/551356188818812/ Gospel Spotlight's Bri Babineaux - "Baptize Us Again" - Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0lEDyZcagY&feature=youtu.be The Powerhouse Fellowship Soul Choir, founded by and under the leadership of Shawn Cotterell, is one of Canada's most sought after choirs. They are the winners of the GMA Canada Covenant Award for Gospel Album of the year and have entered a distribution partnership with eOne Nashville Indie Blu Music. Also, The Powerhouse Fellowship Soul Choir made appearances In the Netflix Series "Self Made" Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker and "THE CLARK SISTERS" Biopic on Lifetime Television. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_ly18L_73ok3cKpQe0VN7DulYwSkpvupGU BRYAN ANDREW WILSON follows his recent Billboard/Mediabase Top 30 radio single "This Time" with this rocking declaration of love for God entitled, "With Every Beat of My Heart." https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/ca8bdvPBuEa6nYsFRXHwJ Got a moment to smile, watch the video of Tom Hanks’ wife Rita Wilson rapping Naughty by Nature’s “Hip Hop Hooray”. You won’t be disappointed. https://www.instagram.com/tv/B-BqChYnY6F/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link The three-time Gospel Image Award winner and nominee for Rhythm of Gospel Awards, Prayze Factor People’s Choice Awards and Queen City Music Awards have released a brand new inspirational song dealing with real-life issues! https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/Steve-Dalton-The-Leviticus-Singers-of-Charlotte-God-Is-Love-RADIO-pn1xraYvqASrrROyVQIsa WATCH TV ONE'S ACCLAIMED SERIES UNSUNG FOR A DANCE BREAK WITH SOUL MUSIC LEGEND BILLY PAUL THIS SUNDAY, MARCH 29 AT 10 P.M. ET/9C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jNDWggWcys&feature=youtu.be Vernon Little Drops "Words To Live By" https://bentleyrecords.lnk.to/VernonLittle-WordsToLiveBy Oprah Winfrey has revealed she is sleeping in separate houses to her long-time partner Stedman Graham amid concerns over coronavirus. The TV legend, 66, who contracted pneumonia late last year, announced in an Instagram Live video that the businessman, 69, is currently in quarantine in their guesthouse after he became higher risk from taking a number of flights. https://youtu.be/XePcm225pkQ Monday March 23rd, six-time GRAMMY® nominated inspirational artist Tauren Wells teamed up with champion football star Russell Wilson to share hope and encouragement in conversation on Instagram Live. Even champion basketball player Steph Curry dropped in. https://youtu.be/nt-gbfkl044 Bishop T.D. Jakes Preaches ‘He Bled Out’ With Just a Handful of People in the Audience of His Massive Church and He Preached Just the Same as He Always Does. https://youtu.be/7Pd8M6sgHOU Among the slew of challenges circulating the Web during the global pandemic due to the coronavirus is one by filmmaker and comedian Tyler Perry called “He’s Got the Whole World,” aimed at spreading hope. The challenge from Perry currently has over 1 million views on Instagram and hundreds of thousands of people have participated. He said he wanted to start something to make everyone “feel better,” then began to sing the traditional African-American song, “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands” and challenged others to add to it. Travis Frederick the Cowboys center selected to his fifth Pro Bowl in 2019, returning from the effects of Guillain-Barre Syndrome. He knew it would take nearly two years to fully recover from the autoimmune disorder and play at an elite level. He was just grateful to play center for the Cowboys in 2019. Frederick came to grips with this late Monday afternoon when he announced his retirement from football at 29. TV One's original auto-biographical series UNCENSORED resumes for its third season with premiere episodes debuting on Sunday, April 26 at 10 p.m. ET/9C. The edgy docu-series explores the private lives of some of today's most notable personalities including actor Larenz Tate, singer/actor Tyrese, rapper/TV personality Eve, producer/TV personality Yandy Smith-Harris and actor Omari Hardwick. Dr. Alyn E. Waller presents Fresh Anointing "BLESSED ASSURANCE." FRESH ANOINTING was created 2011 after a few young Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church members gathered for an evening of fellowship over dinner that eventually erupted into songs of praise. These few united in friendly fellowship became Fresh Anointing and made their debut as the church’s young adult choir during a Sunday morning worship experience. https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/PkeBrtZItcx9kvVqwV0iu Minister James A. Willis & NuPraze Release NEW Single "Free To worship" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=efxFmbeKz1Y&feature=youtu.be Arts and crafts giant Hobby Lobby is slowly shutting down stores across the country amid intense criticism about a letter claiming the company boss’s wife had a vision from God telling the chain to stay open. Calls to stores around the country show some are open, some are closing while others just don’t know what is going on. The company did not respond to a request for comment. The confusion follows a letter sent to stores last week by chief executive David Green, who said his wife Barbara had a heavenly vision about the coronavirus. Many store employees took that as a message that the store should stay open because God would protect them from illness. Manu Dibango, who fused African rhythms with funk to become one of the most influential musicians in world dance music, died Tuesday with the coronavirus, according to his music publisher. He was 86. The Cameroon-born saxophonist, who gained international fame with his 1972 song “Soul Makossa,” died in a hospital in the Paris region. Dibango was hospitalized with an illness “linked to COVID-19,” his official Facebook page said last week. Funeral services were to be “held in strict privacy” followed by a tribute “when possible,” Tuesday’s announcement said. Funerals in France have been limited to 20 people in the closest circle of the deceased because of a lockdown to try to slow the spread of COVID-19. Dibango is survived by four children. A congregation in Ohio decided to host “Drive In Church” services as a way of gathering people together for worship while being wary of concerns over spreading the coronavirus. Genoa Church of Westerville held two “Drive In Church” worship services on Sunday morning, one at 9:15 a.m. and another at 11:00 a.m., with around 600 people in 300 cars attending. The church had a raised platform for speakers, with attendees remaining in their parked cars to listen to the music and preaching through an FM transmitter. As the coronavirus crisis impacts our nation, SiriusXM's Joel Osteen Radio will feature special live programming featuring Joel and Victoria Osteen, co-pastors of Lakewood Church. Created as a platform to offer listeners hope, inspiration, and encouragement, Joel Osteen Radio is heard on SiriusXM channel 128 on SiriusXM radios, on the SiriusXM app, and at home on a variety of connected devices and speakers. Today, March 23, at 5:00 pm ET Joel Osteen will host a special edition of his weekly program Joel Osteen Live featuring his brother, Dr. Paul Osteen, who is a vascular surgeon and medical missionary. Joel will also be taking calls from listeners across the nation discussing ways to stay in faith and how to help others during this time of national emergency. Donald Lawrence and The Tri-City Singers return with "Jehovah Sabaoth (God Of Angel Armies)", the new single lifted from their critically acclaimed album, Goshen. The lyrics proclaim, "the God who governs angel armies has set encampments around me, whom shall I fear." The song reinforces the belief that God's protection is guaranteed and because of this, there's no need to be alarmed. In times like these, a song of this magnitude is sure to be a beautiful reminder of God's love. Monday March 23rd! Six-time GRAMMY® nominated inspirational artist Tauren Wells, teams up with champion football star Russell Wilson to share hope and encouragement in conversation on Instagram Live, Monday March 23rd at 7 pm CST/5 pm PST. Join in at: https://www.instagram.com/taurenwells/ After countless live events, concerts, and television productions have been canceled due to the coronavirus outbreak, the fate of the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo has finally been revealed. Sunday, March 22, IOC president Thomas Bach said he was going to take the next four weeks to decide the fate of the Tokyo Olympics, scheduled to begin July 24, but had ruled out canceling the games. However, according to USA Today, the worldwide competition will be postponed, likely to 2021, with more information to come within the next four weeks. Monday morning, March 23, the German, Brazil, and Norway Olympic committees had all publicly urged the IOC to postpone the Olympics. Ruthie Ann Miles is going to be a mom again. The Broadway star and All Rise actress, 36, revealed on social media that she and husband Jonathan Blumenstein are expecting a child, due this spring. “We’d like to announce our very happy news: We are expecting another child this spring!” Miles wrote in an emotional post shared to Instagram and Twitter on Saturday. Their baby on the way comes two years after an unspeakable tragedy. In March 2018, Miles’ 5-year-old daughter Abigail Joy was struck and killed by a driver in Brooklyn, New York. h Like most people in America, Justin Bieber is practicing social distancing and decided to use his social media platform on Sunday to host a church service for his pastor, Judah Smith. The pop star has been spending his time in isolation recording music, dancing on TikTok with his wife and going to church remotely. https://youtu.be/ef2QuzCzs6Q The Seattle Seahawks continue to stockpile offensive linemen in free agency, agreeing to terms with former first-rounder Chance Warmack Sunday. Warmack has not played since 2018 when he appeared in nine games for Philadelphia. He sat out last season to reportedly get healthy after a series of injuries. Warmack, 28, was part of the 2013 draft class and was considered the best interior offensive lineman that year coming out of Alabama. the Seahawks also trade with Washington for cornerback Quinton Dunbar, giving up a 5th round draft pick. Chart Topping Artist, Psalmist, Worship Leader and Minister Earnest Pugh is once again positioned to minister healing to the global masses with the release of a concept video for his latest single, God Wants To Heal You. https://youtu.be/uXLqDjV4eMU Spanish opera singer Placido Domingo said on Sunday he had tested positive for coronavirus and had gone into self isolation with his family. “We are currently all in good health but I developed a cough and a fever and decided to get tested, and the result came back positive,” Domingo wrote on Facebook. Spain is struggling to contain Europe’s second worst outbreak of the coronavirus after Italy, with over 28,000 cases and more than 1,700 deaths, according to the Health Ministry. Oscar-winning movie producer Harvey Weinstein, now one of New York’s most notorious prison inmates after being sentenced for sexual assault, has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus, according to officials connected to the state prison system. Weinstein, who turned 68 last Thursday is being isolated at Wende Correctional Facility in Western New York, officials told CNHI Sunday. He is one of two Wende inmates who have tested positive, the officials said. Weinstein is serving a 23-year sentence for rape and sexual assault in a prosecution that attracted world-wide attention amid the #MeToo movement. The Tokyo Olympics are going to happen — but almost surely in 2021 rather than in four months as planned. This became clear after the IOC on Sunday announced it was considering a postponement and would make a final decision within four weeks. Major Olympic nations like Canada and Australia have added pressure by saying they will not send teams if the games are staged this year. International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach sent a letter to athletes explaining the decision, while also acknowledging the extended timeline might not be popular. Blues and Gospel artist Reverend John Lee Hooker, Jr. is releasing a life-inspiring singles from his forthcoming Gospel album release TESTIFY. Rev. Hooker, Jr. allows art to imitate life as he shares the path of his turbulent former days to his now triumphant life in ministry. His life is transparently chronicled through his new lyric video and title track "Testify". https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSilVXTIZbE&feature=youtu.be Taylor Swift may have ended her feud with Katy Perry but the one with Kanye West seems simply not to want to die. New leaked video clip of the entire four-year-old phone call between the rapper and pop superstar about his controversial song “Famous” have been posted online and further complicate the picture of what happened. In “Famous,” West raps: “I feel like me and Taylor might still have sex, Why? I made that bitch famous.” Upon its release in 2016, West was condemned by many for the line. He insisted Swift had given her blessing to the lyric. But she denied ever hearing the lyric “I made that bitch famous.” The new clips seem to corroborate Swift’s claims that West didn’t tell her the full lyrics of the song. But they also show West repeatedly asking Taylor for her approval of the sex lyric and she does tell him she thinks it’s funny, just as the rapper said when it the song first was released. This new footage was posted online from an unknown source late Friday night and rapidly spread across social media. Representative for either artists did not immediately reply to a request for comment Saturday With millions of American families being cooped up in their homes in response to the coronavirus outbreak, the streaming video service VidAngel made its platform free for two weeks to ensure access to family-friendly entertainment. The California-based company announced this week that all of its content can be accessed for free without a credit card until March 30, including the platform’s popular original series “The Chosen.” The $12 million Dubai World Cup, the world’s richest purse in horse racing, will be postponed until next year. That’s according to an announcement from the Dubai Media Office, a governmental agency. Officials had planned to run the race March 28 without spectators over concerns about the new coronavirus and the COVID-19 illness it causes. Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., said Sunday that he had tested positive for the disease caused by the new coronavirus, becoming the first member of the Senate to report a case of COVID-19. He said in a tweet that he was feeling fine and was in quarantine. Paul, an eye surgeon, said he has not had symptoms and was tested out of an abundance of caution due to his extensive travel and events. He said he was not aware of any direct contact with any infected person. Three million Americans will file unemployment claims next week, marking the highest level of unemployment ever seen in US history, as the coronavirus pandemic continues to shutters businesses and see workers turfed out of their jobs overnight. Bars, restaurants, stores and casinos lie boarded up across the US as the nation’s once heaving cities have turned into ghost towns after state-wide mandates have ordered one in five Americans to stay at home. Bars, restaurants, stores and casinos lie boarded up across the US as the nation’s once heaving cities have turned into ghost towns after state-wide mandates have ordered one in five Americans to stay at home. Kenny Rogers, the smooth, Grammy-winning balladeer who spanned jazz, folk, country and pop with such hits as “Lucille,” “Lady” and “Islands in the Stream” and embraced his persona as “The Gambler” on records and on TV, died Friday night. He was 81. He died at home in Sandy Springs, Georgia, representative Keith Hagan told The Associated Press. He was under hospice care and died of natural causes, Hagan said. THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE CELEBRATE HBCU PRIDE WITH THE ATLANTA HAWKS CHEERLEADERS, ERICA CAMPBELL, YO-YO, AFFION CROCKET AND MANY MORE! Grammy-Award winning artist, best-selling author, entrepreneur and social activist LECRAE released his new single “Set Me Free” today. “Set Me Free” featuring Def Jam recording artist, singer, and rapper, YK Osiris (“Worth It,” “Valentine”), produced by GAWVI is the first song to drop from Lecrae’s upcoming album to be released Spring 2020. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3sk71ffTpo&feature=youtu.be Tasha Cobbs Leonard joined We The Kingdom on their hit song, “Holy Water,” backed by members of Maverick City Music. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AfY7CGU8sck&utm_campaign=42591_MOTG+3.20_231797_US&utm_source=dotmailer&utm_medium=email A new look for the NFL: Tom Brady in Tampa Bay pewter and red rather than Patriots red, white and blue. The six-time Super Bowl champion quarterback signed a two-year contract in free agency on Friday, embarking on a “new football journey” with the Buccaneers. The deal guarantees $50 million and includes a $10 million signing bonus and $15 million salary for 2020. The Metropolitan Opera is canceling the rest of its season and stopping the pay of the orchestra, chorus and other unionized employees at the end of March due to the new coronavirus. The Met last week called off performances through March 31. Met general manager Peter Gelb said he is giving up his $1.45 million salary until normal operations resume and higher-paid members of his administrative staff are having their pay reduced — by 10% for everyone earning more than $125,000 and by 25%-50% at the top of the pay scale. The Met is launching an emergency fundraising drive of $50 million to $60 million and has obtained pledges from its board for $11 million of that. It started out as a tickle in his throat before bed, but by the next morning, it felt like the worst flu ever. And by the time Kevin Harris was admitted to a hospital in Ohio five days later, he thought he was suffocating.The doctors at St. Joseph Hospital in Warren were certain Harris, 55, had pneumonia — but three days later, they had the real diagnosis: coronavirus. One of the doctors had tears in his eyes when Harris asked if he would live. Another doctor just shrugged and mumbled, “I don’t know.” “They told me they didn’t have a cure,” Harris said from his hospital room, where he was still hooked up to oxygen Tuesday night. “I just wanted them to tell me if I’m going to live or die.” Still in complete isolation, he has received no visitors in the hospital. Every six hours, his temperature is taken by medical staff wearing gloves, a yellow paper suit and an inverted face shield with an N95 mask underneath and a surgical mask over the top. They give him cough and pain medications. A little-known Christian rapper who was awarded $2.8 million after claiming that pop star Katy Perry copied his song will not receive any compensation, a judge has ruled. Rapper “Flame” won a high-profile plagiarism dispute last July after claiming that Perry had stolen an eight-note musical phrase from his 2008 song “Joyful Noise” for her hit single, “Dark Horse.” However, in a new decision, U.S. District Judge Christina A. Snyder ruled that none of the individual elements that comprise the section in Flame’s track are “independently protectable” and thus the case must be dismissed. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton tested positive for the coronavirus, he told ESPN on Thursday. Payton, 56, is the first person in the NFL world known to test positive for the virus. Payton said he didn’t feel well this past Sunday, took the test Monday, and received the results Thursday afternoon. Payton is resting at home, fatigued, but said he is part of the 20 percent of the cases that have no fever and no cough. But he will self-quarantine in his home through the weekend, and he said he is upbeat and optimistic about a full recovery. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com CLEO SPEAKS HIGHLIGHTS FINANCIAL LITERACY WITH WALKER'S LEGACY FOUNDER NATALIE COFIELD AT 9 A.M. ET/8C AND SHARES THE INSPIRATIONAL JOURNEY OF JASMINE SANDERS OF THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW AT 9:15 A.M. ET/8:15C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEbepUhgBeM&feature=youtu.be JUST EATS WITH CHEF JJ Throws Down a Hearty Feast for Actor TJ Atoms, Broadway Star Jeannette Bayardelle and "Spice Queen" Angel Gregorio at 12 P.M. ET/11C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjLA1CcayGQ&feature=youtu.be ADRIENNE HOUGHTON Challenges Grammy Award-Winning Husband Israel Houghton to the "Not-So Newlywed" Game on the Next Episode of ALL THINGS ADRIENNE WITH ADRIENNE HOUGHTON at 1 P.M. ET/12C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TWTlfCDXls&feature=youtu.be A fit-and-healthy mother who filmed herself struggling to breathe as she warned of the dangers of coronavirus has said it felt like having ‘glass in her lungs’. Tara Jane Langston, 39, told of how every breath is a ‘battle’ but she is now out of intensive care and recovering well. The mother-of-two was rushed to hospital by ambulance last Friday and eventually diagnosed with Covid-19 on Sunday. Ms Langston had filmed herself with her phone in the intensive care unit at Hillingdon Hospital in west London pleading with others to take the deadly COVID-19 seriously. https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/03/19/16/26171520-8131269-image-a-75_1584634408759.jpg Sports are on hold, theaters are closed and so are amusement parks, a disaster-movie scenario that has Hollywood reeling. But Americans held captive at home by the coronavirus can turn to Netflix, Amazon, Hulu and other streaming services, outliers in an entertainment industry brought to an unprecedented standstill. With self-imposed or required isolation the abrupt reality, emerging and niche streamers could draw new subscribers — gains that may even outlast the coronavirus crisis. The Jacksonville Jaguars have agreed to trade quarterback Nick Foles to the Chicago Bears just one year after giving Foles the most guaranteed money in franchise history. The Bears are giving up their fourth-round pick which means the Jaguars now have 12 picks in the upcoming NFL draft. Foles has already restructured his contract with the Bears. He still has three years and $21 million guaranteed left on the deal, but Foles now has the ability to void the deal after either of the first two years, depending on the upside of his performance. Chris Mitchell Jazz on Pay-Per-View! This Saturday, March 21st 2:00 P.M. CST. He and his ensemble are performing live and you can watch from the comfort of your home and...you get to create the playlist! Chris Mitchell want to give you the opportunity to customize your productivity. By building your own Chris Mitchell Jazz Live Stream play-list! Simply respond with the songs you want us to perform and you'll hear it THIS Saturday on our live stream and.... we're also accepting birthday shoutout inquiries! The spreading coronavirus canceled several touring performances from A-list musical artists, but those acts have found a new venue to sing: their living rooms. John Legend, Bono, Coldplay’s Chris Martin, Pink, John Mayer, Keith Urban and more have held virtual concerts from their homes as the world continues to practice social distancing to slow the spread of the virus. The piano-playing superstar took requests from fans as he crooned from his living room like he does at one of his typical live concerts. Legend’s performance was in support of the World Health Organization’s newly-launched online concert series “Together at Home,” created in efforts to fight the coronavirus. The Olympic flame from Greece is set to arrive in Japan even as the opening of the Tokyo Games in four months is in doubt with more voices suggesting the event should be postponed or canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic. The flame touches down Friday aboard a white aircraft painted with the inscription “Tokyo 2020 Olympic Torch Relay” along its side, and “Hope Lights Our Way” stenciled near the tail section. Everything about the arrival ceremony at the Matsushima air base in northern Japan will be subdued. The flame is to be greeted by a few dignitaries, saluted by a flyover from an aerial acrobatic team — if weather permits — and then used to ignite a cauldron. Multi Grammy Award-winning platinum selling artist, Lecrae has partnered with Love Beyond Walls to plant portable hand washing stations around the Atlanta Metro Area for homeless and displaced people to clean their hands in response to Coronavirus (Covid19). The initiative kicks off 10am on Thursday March 19th at Love Beyond Wall’s Center located at 3270 East Main Street, College Park, GA 30337. Lecrae will join the Love Beyond Walls team at 10am to begin assembling the sinks after which they will be filled with water, loaded on trucks, and distributed to key locations frequented by the homeless in the Atlanta Metro Area. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42q32wyLISk&feature=youtu.be Paul S. Morton, founding bishop of The Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, has been fielding withering criticism online for insisting churches should remain open, like hospitals and police stations across the country, amid the coronavirus pandemic. As of Tuesday morning, more than 7,000 cases of the new coronavirus have been diagnosed in the U.S., according to the Johns Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering tracker. At least 105 people have died and 17 have recovered from the virus. He is a platinum-selling hip hop recording artist from Virginia Beach, Virginia widely known by his stage name No Malice (formerly Malicious and later Malice). He is best known for being one half of Southern hip hop duo Clipse, which he formed in 1992 alongside his brother and fellow rapper Pusha T. No Malice has also released two studio albums as a solo artist: Hear Ye Him, in August 2013, and Let the Dead Bury the Dead, in August 2017. Deep down, No Malice, then known as Malice, always knew that staying in his platinum-selling worldly music group would lead to his demise. But Malice found a new reason to live in 2010—Jesus Christ. He changed his stage name to No Malice and gave up millions of dollars by going solo. His name is Gene Elliott Thornton Jr., formerly known as Malicious and Malice, now known as No Malice. Christian singer Sandi Patty announced Tuesday night, March 17, that she tested positive for COVID-19. The 63-year-old singer shared a video on Facebook, saying that she was impressed with how the Oklahoma Health Department handled her case. “So yesterday, I was tested for COVID-19,” she says in the video. “And today, I got a call from the Oklahoma Health Department and I have confirmed, yes, I have COVID-19. … I hadn’t felt well for a couple of weeks. So I’ve been traveling, so when I got off the road March 7 and 8, I came back to Oklahoma City and really have been home since then.” Titus Showers Feat Jermaine Dolly The Perfect Song During These Trying Times "It's Gonna Be Alright" https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nJlIGAKzMYG_Qn2givnAdPU_JnhOlpGN/view TV ONE'S ACCLAIMED SERIES UNSUNG FEATURES “THE MOTHER OF FREESTYLE” SHANNON THIS SUNDAY, MARCH 22 AT 10 P.M. ET/9C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TD4IhEIDtD0&feature=youtu.be Many Christian artists are temporarily halting their tours and advising fans to look to Jesus as countries implement different measures to stave off the spread of the new coronavirus. As of Tuesday afternoon, more than 184,900 people worldwide have tested positive for COVID-19 and 7,529 people have died, according to the World Health Organization. The average age of those who’ve died is 80. The daughter of famed hip-hop pioneer Eric B. was hospitalized after a serious car crash in Connecticut on Sunday. Word of the accident first emerged on social media, when the Instagram feed “The Real Sister2Sister 2.0” posted: “Erica Supreme Barrier, the daughter of music legend Eric Barrier (Eric B) is in extreme critical condition this morning after a horrific car crash in Connecticut.” The post added that, “Barrier is suffering from severe neck and spine fractures, among her many life threatening injuries, confirmed Eric B’s long time publicist,” and that, “The family is at her bedside and asking for your prayers.” Former world champion and well-known boxing trainer Roger Mayweather, the uncle of Floyd Mayweather, has died at the age of 58, TMZ Sports reported Tuesday. Mayweather was a two-weight world champion. He held the WBA and lineal super-featherweight titles from 1983 to 1984 and the WBC light welterweight title from 1987 to 1989. He debuted in 1981 and won 59 of his 72 bouts. Kevin Durant was among four members of the Brooklyn Nets who tested positive for the coronavirus. The team announced Tuesday that multiple players were diagnosed with the deadly virus, without disclosing names. “Of the four, one player is exhibiting symptoms while three are asymptomatic,” the team added in a statement. “All four players are presently isolated and under the care of team physicians.” The 2020 Stellar Awards 35th Anniversary Show, in partnership with the Orleans Hotel and Arena, thanks everyone for their patience and understanding as we continue to do our best to bring you the greatest week of events in Gospel Music. In light of recent news and the declaration of the COVID-19 crisis as a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO), The 35th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards will now take place August 14-16, 2020. A new video has debuted, with hit maker Travis Greene in a VEVO live performance of “Good and Loved” ft. DOE. The four-time GRAMMY® nominated chart-topper has paired up with the GRAMMY® nominated songstress, formerly of foreverJONES, to create an intimate acoustic duet extolling God’s ever-present love and covering, recorded at VEVO’s NYC studios. Written by Greene, he says of his song: “God dearly loves you and is always protecting you. He’s ALWAYS by your side ready to catch you at any moment because He indeed is GOOD and YOU are LOVED!” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaIvqmFaE9c Award-winning gospel music superstar Deitrick Haddon’s new album T.I.M.E (Truth Is My Energy) is available now wherever music is sold and streamed digitally. Haddon’s new album is hailed as his “best work yet,” and features the Billboard Gospel Radio smash single, “Open Door Season.” Additionally, it boasts a new verse of the worshippers favorite track “He’s Able,” the viral “Gorilla Faith” produced by Zaytoven and “Come Through” lifted from TV One’s original film, “Sins of the Father.” “Gorilla Faith” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mK7v_VjOnY&feature=youtu.be Due to the COVID-19 Breakout, SISTER CIRCLE LIVE will Air Repeat Episodes Beginning Wednesday, March 18 Until Further Notice. Thank You for Your Continued Support. Tyler Perry Studios costume designer Crystal Renee knows the pressure of having to lead a team. Starting out as a production assistant, Renee worked her way up in the industry to become an actress and, eventually, a TV and film costume designer. Her fearless faith, says Dr. Joseph Walker III, is what makes her a fearless leader. And sometimes that means telling the harsh truths to someone on your team. The future of the most famous free agent in NFL history appears to be nearing its climax as six-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady officially told the New England Patriots Tuesday morning that he will not be returning for his 21st season in Foxboro. Colin Cowherd says he has a source close with Brady who told Colin that Brady has made a decision and will be signing with the Tampa Bay Bucs tomorrow (Wednesday, March 18th) when free agency officially begins at 4pm ET. Although Tampa Bay has one of the better rosters in the league on paper when you consider their elite wide receiving corps, coupled with a budding front-seven that could be one of the best in football. TB 12 a Buccaneer!!! Lamman Rucker, Clifton Powell, Kenneth Wayne, Ashley Rios, Traci Braxton and Tasha Cobbs Leonard Light up the Screen in TV One Upcoming Film 'Sinners Wanted.' An unconventional pastor is ridiculed by his hypocritical congregation after he rescues an unforgiven prostitute. https://vimeo.com/283593294 Because the Metropolitan Museum of Art is closing due to coronavirus concerns, this year's Met Gala, themed "About Time," has been postponed. "Due to the unavoidable and responsible decision by the Metropolitan Museum to close its doors, About Time, and the opening night gala, will not take place on the date scheduled," Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour wrote in a statement, published Monday, March 16. T.D. Jakes Addresses the Coronavirus Plague and Says We Have Got to Get Our Hearts Back to the Gospel and Stop Embracing Christianity and Embracing Our Faith Because We Want Prosperity, a Job, Are Looking for a Companion, or Want God to Help Us Out. https://youtu.be/ctYRanZ1T-Q Despite low theater attendance due to the nationwide precautions to avoid the coronavirus, moviegoers were out to support the faith-based film “I Still Believe,” which opened Friday at No. 1. The Lionsgate film, made with a budget of $12 million, brought in over $9 million in ticket sales over the weekend, causing it to rank at No. 1 on Friday, beating out Sony’s “Bloodshot” and Disney’s “Onward.” Weekend totals show the film at No. 2 overall. Actor Idris Elba announced in a video on Monday that he has tested positive for COVID-19. The actor said he has no symptoms and quarantined himself on Friday after learning he had been in contact with someone who had the virus. He was tested immediately and the results came back Monday. https://twitter.com/i/status/1239617034901524481 The Dallas Cowboys have placed the exclusive franchise tag on Dak Prescott, the team announced Monday, although the ultimate goal remains to have the quarterback signed to a long-term contract. With the move, the Cowboys have until July 15 to work out a long-term contract. If no deal is reached, Prescott will have to play the 2020 season on the tag, and the sides can do the same dance next offseason. With the exclusive tag, Prescott is not permitted to talk to other teams. The fate of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics remains shrouded in uncertainty, amid rising fears over coronavirus and mixed messages from organizers. The games are scheduled to be held in Tokyo between July 24 and August 9 but their fate appears increasingly in doubt as the world battles to contain COVID-19. On Tuesday, a member of the Tokyo 2020 organizing committee’s executive board suggested the Games could be postponed. Friday March 20,2020 Lecrae's new single, "Set Me Free" drops. In the midst of the Coronavirus, Lecrae makes a bold decision. Do I drop new music or not? If you have new music that can uplift, empower, do you 'set it free' or wait for a more appropriate date. After prayer and deliberation, he decides to "Set It Free.". https://www.instagram.com/lecrae/ The 35th Annual Stellar Awards was originally scheduled to take place Friday, March 27th, 2020 hosted by Koryn Hawthorne andJonathan McReynolds. Due to the Worldwide COVID-19 (Coronavirus) breakout, Central City Productions decided to postpone the awards show until This summer. While Central City Productions has not officially announced the new date of the taping, there is information circulating via Ticketmaster that the New Date for the Taping will be Sunday, August 16, 2020 at 6:30PM at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas! The show won’t go on for the Academy of Country Music, after all.The academy said Sunday that it was postponing its annual awards show, which was to be held April 5 at the MGM Garden Arena in Las Vegas and televised on CBS, because of the coronavirus pandemic.The plan now is to hold the show in September, at a date and venue to be determined. Ticket sales plunged to their lowest levels in at least 20 years at North American movie theaters as the coronavirus pandemic led to one of Hollywood’s worst weekends at the box office. Receipts totaled about $55.3 million in U.S. and Canada theaters, according to studio estimates Sunday. Not since 2000 has weekend box office revenue been so low, according to data firm Comscore, when $54.5 million in tickets were sold on a quiet September weekend. More people went to the movies the weekend after Sept. 11, 2001. Disney’s latest release from Pixar, “Onward,” remained the top film, earning $10.5 million in its second weekend. The Christian romance “I Still Believe” from Lionsgate brought in $9.5 million. Sony’s comic-book adaptation “Bloodshot,” with Vin Diesel, grossed an estimated $9.3 million in its debut. The Blumhouse horror satire “The Hunt” opened with $5.3 million. Welcome to the Black Ink Crew: Chicago family, baby Nola Glenda Bey! Charmaine Walker and husband Nick Bey have welcomed their first child together, a daughter, on Saturday. Walker, 31, welcomed her baby girl at Northwestern Medicine Prentice Women’s Hospital with Bey by her side. “SAFE DELIVERY! Head full of hair!” Bey proudly announced on Instagram. The International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) is one of the largest and most diverse unions in North America, with members in virtually every sector of the economy. The UAW has never had an African American president. Until now. “The local NAACP chapter president called, and others,” noted Gamble, who in December was named the 13th president of the 85-year-old union. Gamble accepted the job after his predecessor, Gary Jones, resigned amid a corruption scandal. Despite the cloud of suspicion left behind, Gamble observed that the union must continue to move forward. Activist and educator Mary McLeod Bethune was instrumental in advancing education at historically Black colleges and universities throughout the country. The South Carolina native—who was one of the co-founders of Bethune-Cookman University—will be posthumously memorialized with a statue at the U.S. Capitol. The effort to have a sculpture of Bethune featured on Capitol Hill was led by Florida Congresswoman Val Demings who is a vice presidential hopeful. The addition of the statue is historic as it marks the first time a sculpture of a Black woman will be featured in National Statuary Hall. By a close vote, with some 500 union members not participating, NFL players approved a new labor agreement with the league. It features a 17-game regular season, higher salaries, increased roster sizes and larger pensions for current and former players. The deal, which runs through the 2030 season, was accepted by the 32 team owners last month. Many stars, including Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson, J.J. Watt and Todd Gurley, spoke out against it. The total vote, among the nearly 2,500 union members who participated, was 1,019-959. Ratification required a simple majority — results were announced Sunday. The “Mayor of Sacksonville” is on the move. And the Baltimore Ravens made quite the deal to land veteran Calais Campbell, essentially giving up a backup kicker who spent time on five NFL rosters over the last eight months for a five-time Pro Bowl defensive lineman who’s also the reigning Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year. The Ravens agreed Sunday to trade a fifth-round draft pick in the upcoming draft to the Jacksonville Jaguars for Campbell, according to a person familiar with the deal. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the trade can’t become official until the new league begins Wednesday. Philanthropist, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur Karlos Cobham, announced today the official launching of his new creative and visual arts company, KWEST International, a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization serving faith-based and corporate lifestyle networks and brands. As founder, president, and chief creative officer, KWEST International collaborates with affiliates and organizations specifically working for and with youth, musical and creative artists to ensure they have access and the necessary tools, they need to succeed. Former American Express CEO Kenneth I. Chenault announced Friday that he was “stepping down” from the board of Facebook Inc. On the same day, Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway disclosed the nomination of the world-renowned corporate leader to its board, making him the first African American ever to serve as a director of the conglomerate. Chenault will replace departing Berkshire Hathaway board member Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft Corp. and billionaire philanthropist. According to The Wall Street Journal, Chenault, a member of the Black Enterprise Registry of Corporate Directors who became the first African American to sit on the social media giant’s board, decided not to seek re-election to the body due to differences with Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg related to “governance and political policies.” Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel has appointed Paris Dennard as the organization’s new senior communications advisor of black media affairs. Dennard, a longtime GOP political commentator, writer, consultant, and strategist, will work to ensure that African Americans and other minorities are aware of President Trump’s efforts to support their communities. In an exclusive interview with NNPA Newswire, Dennard said Trump has been “pained” by unflattering and unfair characterizations that do not reflect his work as president. He said the president also understands the importance of the Black vote, and the GOP is committed to demonstrating its value to all communities. Former Los Angeles Sparks general manager Penny Toler is suing the WNBA team saying she was fired for raising complaints about inappropriate sexual relationships involving the team president and a managing partner, not for using a racial slur. The Sparks say Toler was fired on Oct. 4 following a profanity-laced postgame tirade that included using a racial slur a few days earlier following a playoff game. In the suit filed Tuesday for gender discrimination, Toler said if she were a man, she would still be employed by the team. Andrew Gillum, who in 2018 came within 34,000 votes of becoming Florida’s governor, was discovered by police at a South Beach hotel early Friday morning in a room with bags of possible crystal meth and in the company of a man who appeared to have overdosed on drugs, according to a Miami Beach police report. Police say they were called to the Mondrian South Beach early Friday morning and found paramedics treating Travis Dyson, a 30-year-old Miami man, for an apparent heart attack. They say two other men were in the room: Aldo Mejias and Gillum. Police say Gillum, who was not arrested, was too intoxicated to answer questions. An offense incident report says that officers found three clear plastic baggies of suspected crystal meth on the bed and floor. Gillum, a former Tallahassee mayor and a Democrat, issued a statement Friday afternoon in which he denied using drugs. Upon communicating with local health officials and heeding advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, many churches and Christian concerts have made the difficult decision of canceling events until further notice. See below for a roundup. The Potter’s House is postponing absolutely all church activities. Services will be livestreamed on various mediums such as YouTube, to be watched at home. Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, is also canceling services Sunday, March 15. Services will still be available on Facebook Live, YouTube, Roku, AppleTV, Osteen’s and Lakewood Church’s websites. Hillsong’s Colour Conference 2020 is postponing its 2020 events in Los Angeles, California, and New York until 2021. Country star Carrie Underwood thanked God during a surprise presentation as her 2018 album Cry Pretty was certified Platinum by the RIAA. “This means a lot, because I feel like this is the project that I’ve done, and the album that I’ve done, that is the most ‘me.’ I’m honored and I’m humbled, and God is good,” said Underwood. Underwood is open about her faith and doesn’t shy away from talking about God. In a new interview with Women’s Health, Underwood opened up about the pain of suffering miscarriages. Despite being in his first NBA season, Pelicans rookie Zion Williamson is already making a huge difference in New Orleans. With the NBA season now suspended indefinitely amid the coronavirus pandemic, Williamson is pledging to pay the salaries of the Smoothie King Center employees for the next 30 days. “This is a small way for me to express my support and appreciation for these wonderful people who have been so great to me and my teammates and hopefully we can all join together to relieve some of the stress and hardship caused by this national health crisis,” Williamson said in an Instagram post announcing the pledge. Serena Williams is not taking any chances. The tennis player and mother to two-year-old daughter Alexis Olympia took to Instagram on Friday morning with a sublime selfie video of herself getting made up to look very glam. ‘Spending the next 6 weeks in solitude,’ Serena, 38, wrote. ‘Being a wife. Being a mom. Cooking. Cleaning. Spring cleaning. Face mask. Makeup tutorials. The Stellar Awards 35th Anniversary Show 2020 in partnership with the Orleans Hotel and Arena wishes to ensure that the safety of all show guests and participants is the highest priority. In light of recent news and the declaration of the COVID-19 crisis as a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO), we have decided to postpone the production of the 35th Annual Stellars Gospel Music Awards. Effective immediately, the Stellar Gospel Music Awards 35th Anniversary Show and events are postponed until Summer of 2020. These past few days with the Corona Virus have been quite alarming. Some of us are overly anxious and others overly unfazed? Our lives have been certainly impacted personally and professionally. As you make the necessary adjustments Lecrae wanted to send good thoughts that you and your families are safe and remain in good health. https://www.instagram.com/p/B9rfDqfJIDR/ Deitrick Haddon is set to release is new album T.I.M.E (Truth Is My Energy) on March 13th. Haddon's current single, "Open Door Season" is (#6) on THE Gospel Airplay Chart and the accompanying music video can be viewed here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtXWFGhQZSE&feature=youtu.be No Fear, Just Faith! New Angelo & Veronica Single Coming Soon...https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLXCixClTpQ&feature=youtu.be THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE WELCOME THE CAST OF LOVE IS BLIND, TALK FACTS WITH DR. DAVE ABOUT THE CORONAVIRUS, AND PUT A SPIN ON FITNESS WITH TWERKFIT! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dERGSP8ap4s Ja’net Dubois’ death certificate claims that her biological father was Cab Calloway, rather than Gordon Dubois. The singer passed away unexpectedly in her sleep last month, and the document, which was obtained by TMZ earlier this week, had Cab listed as the Good Times star’s secret parent. It also said in the document, that she was known as ‘Jeannette T. Calloway-DuBois’, though this is disputed online. Ja’Net’s father is listed as Gordon in her online biographies, while Lillian Goudey is named as her mother both in the document and on the internet. TMZ went on to claim that Ja’Net’s daughter Rani said that Gordon was Lillian’s husband and said he was ‘instrumental’ in raising the singer. The Masters has been postponed, its organisers have confirmed, with the world of sport rocked by the ongoing spread of coronavirus. In a statement released online, Fred Ridley, Chairman of Augusta National Golf Club, emphasised that the decision makers hope to hold the prestigious tournament ‘at some later date’. The first men’s major championship of the year was due to begin on April 9 in Georgia, but has been suspended due to the escalating pandemic. Tiger Woods remains the defending Masters champion, having memorably won his fifth tournament at Augusta National last April. Charles Barkley revealed that he has put himself into self-quarantine while awaiting the results of his Coronavirus test. The 57-year-old NBA legend called into the NBA on TNT broadcast on Thursday, where he revealed he is in a self-imposed 48-hour quarantine. The news comes just a day after the NBA suspended its regular season after one player, Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert, tested positive for the virus, and just hours after one of his teammates, Donovan Mitchell, also tested positive as well. Earlier this evening, Jason Crabb encouraged his followers during a Facebook Live. The two-time GRAMMY® winner went live with his family – wife Shellye and daughters Ashleigh and Emma – from his home just outside Nashville, TN to encourage viewers with scripture, inspiring words and share a song in response to the fears surrounding the Coronavirus outbreak. With scripture, Jason reminded all of us that 'God's got you' and that He has never failed us. Then, with just the guitar and his voice trembling with emotion, Crabb sang "Through The Fire," a song that has become a staple of Crabb's and that has encouraged so many people through the years. CLEO TV dives into candid conversations on healthy eating starting with black female founder, Aisha "Pinky" Cole, of the trend-setting restaurant Slutty Vegan, this Saturday, March 14 at 9 A.M. ET/8C followed by Author & Wellness Coach Gessie Thompson of Hope Beyond Fibroids, at 9:15 A.M ET/8:15C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRdOUIcQZdA&feature=youtu.be The quality food vibes continue on JUST EATS WITH CHEF JJ with fast, homemade restaurant alternatives and cocktails shared by R&B Singer Mumu Fresh and Social Activist, David Dennis at 12 P.M. ET/ 11C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4ooHBsvqF0&feature=youtu.be Tune-in to ALL THINGS ADRIENNE WITH ADRIENNE HOUGHTON for helpful hints on throwing a memorable house party beginning at 1 P.M. ET/ 12C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wBlhtXdh7Gc&feature=youtu.be The NCAA canceled its men’s and women’s basketball tournaments on Thursday because of the spread of coronavirus, putting an abrupt end to the season less than a month before champions were to be crowned. The decision comes a day after the NCAA announced the games that were scheduled to start next week would go on, but played in mostly empty arenas. That plan was scrapped as every major American sports league from the NBA to MLB put the brakes on its season due to concerns about the pandemic. The NCAA canceled all of its spring championships in every sport, which include hockey, baseball and lacrosse. Major League Baseball will suspend operations for the next four weeks, including spring training and the first two weeks of the regular season in response to the spread of coronavirus, the league announced Thursday. The MLB season was originally set to start March 26, but Opening Day will now occur no earlier than April 9. MLB is the fourth major American pro sports league to suspend its season due to the outbreak of COVID-19, joining the NBA, NHL and MLS. The entertainment industry prepared Thursday for an unprecedented shutdown to curb the spread of the coronavirus, canceling upcoming movies, suspending all Broadway performances and scuttling concert tours until it’s safe to welcome crowds back. To accommodate calls for social distancing, Hollywood moved to pause the normal hum of TV productions and the bustle of red-carpet movie premieres. After New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo banned gatherings of more than 500 people, Broadway theaters announced that they would close immediately and remain dark through April 12. Mention the name Evander Holyfield and the first few things that may come to most people’s minds are: boxing champion, the ear-biting incident with Mike Tyson or maybe even headlines from tabloids that pick apart the four-time heavyweight boxing champion of the world. However, there is far more than what meets the eye when it comes to Evander Holyfield; he is nothing short of “The Real Deal.” When Christian Headlines asked him why he’s decided to be so outspoken about his faith, Holyfield didn’t have to think twice. He responded, “Because, without Jesus, I wouldn’t be who I am.” https://youtu.be/ris76LLkQHY Tom Hanks says he and his wife, actress Rita Wilson, have both tested positive for the coronavirus. The celebrity couple was in Australia for a film project when they fell ill, according to Hanks. The “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” actor tweeted this to 16 million followers Wednesday. The National Basketball Association has reportedly suspended its 2020 season amid concerns over novel coronavirus after Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert tested preliminarily positive for the virus. “The test result was reported shortly prior to the tip-off of last night’s game between the Jazz and Oklahoma City Thunder at Chesapeake Energy Arena. The major NCAA conferences have cancelled their postseason basketball tournaments amid continued fears over outbreaks of the coronavirus. The ACC, SEC, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-12, American, MAC, Atlantic-10, Colonial, Conference USA and WAC all decided to end tournaments Thursday morning before games began in their respective arenas. The Big East tournament quarterfinal between Creighton and St. John's started at noon ET, but the league then cancelled the entire event at halftime. The ex-president of Jackson State University has pleaded not guilty to prostitution charges after he was allegedly caught in an undercover sting at a motel. William Bynum Jr. was absent in court Wednesday as his lawyer pleaded not guilty on charges of procuring a prostitute, false statement of identity and simple possession of marijuana, according to news reports. The attorney also entered pleas of not guilty on charges of procuring services of a prostitute and possession of marijuana while operating a motor vehicle for Shonda McCarthy, 46, the schools former arts galleries director. A trial for Bynum is scheduled for July 8, and a trial for McCarthy was is for June 24. RCA Inspiration debuted new music from GRAMMY® winning artist/songwriter Kierra Sheard and GRAMMY® nominated artist/songwriter Mali Music on March 10th in New York at an exclusive pop-up event. The two acclaimed musical powerhouses delivered an intimate sneak preview of new music from their highly-anticipated new albums to the packed crowd, as they spoke on their creative influences and inspirational message for their new records. Kierra Sheard will release her new album KIERRA April 17th. More news will be forthcoming from Mali Music’s new album. Mali Music: “Let Go” https://MaliMusic.lnk.to/LetGoAE, Kierra Sheard: “It Keeps Happening” https://KierraSheard.lnk.to/ItKeepsHappeningPR Darius Twyman & Destiny returns with a new sound and a global message “We are Family, We are Friends.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2T5QB_TXo5Q&feature=youtu.be Coming off of an exhilarating 2019 breakout year, Titus Showers introduces “It’s Gonna Be Alright” remix version featuring Jermaine Dolly to Gospel radio formats this week. The song is produced by GRAMMY®-nominated producer and songwriter Lucius B. Hoskins (Shirley Ceaser, Zacardi Cortez, Joshua Rogers). The Golden State Warriors announced Wednesday that the team will play its next home game without fans after San Francisco placed a ban on large events. The Golden State Warriors will play Thursday’s game against the Brooklyn Nets without spectators due to the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak, the team announced. The decision comes after San Francisco Mayor London Breed banned public gatherings of 1,000 or more people as coronavirus continues to affect U.S. cities and sporting events around the world. WE tv hosted a premiere party in Atlanta at Republic Night Club in celebration of their brand-new series, “Waka & Tammy: What The Flocka” starring rapper Waka Flocka Flame and his wife R&B songstress/fashion designer Tammy Rivera. Joining Waka Flocka and Tammy Rivera for the premiere were Atlanta’s VIPs and influencers including “Braxton Family Values Star” Trina Braxton, “Real Housewives of Atlanta” stars Kenya Moore, Kandi Burruss and Eva Marcille Sterling; actors Taja V. Simpson (“Tyler Perry’s The Oval), Dawn Halfkenny (“Saints & Sinners”), Anthony Dalton (“Sistas”); “Growing Up Hip Hop: Atlanta” cast members Drea Kelly, Ayana Fite, DJ Hurricane, Buku Abi, ReeMarkable; “Love & Hip Hop” stars Karlie Redd, Melissa Scott and Nikki Natural. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CfkDfZDklCw&feature=youtu.be The Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards is back at the Orleans Arena in celebration of its 35th Anniversary. The show will be taped in front of a live audience and will be hosted by Jonathan McReynolds & Koryn Hawthorne. Jackson will bestow special honors upon Gospel greats who have elevated the genre. This year’s James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award will honor the iconic Clark Sisters - Karen Clark Sheard, Dorinda Clark Cole, Twinkie Clark and Jacky Clark Chisholm -- who hold a collective fifteen Stellar Awards, in addition to the Thomas Dorsey Most Notable Achievement Award (2007). Donald Lawrence Presents The Tri-City Singers leads the field of nominees this year with nine nominations, with eight nominations, Kirk Franklin, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, seven nominations JJ Hairston, Bishop Paul S. Morton & The Full Gospel Ministry of Worship and John P. Kee receive six and five nominations respectively. Kurt Carr & The Kurt Carr Singers, William Murphy and Pastor Mike Jr. are blessed with four nominations each. Other artists earning multiple nominations: The Walls Group, Todd Dulaney, Maranda Curtis, Fresh Start Worship, Le’Andria Johnson, Jekalyn Carr and Jerard & Jovaun. TV One's award-winning documentary series UNSUNG features funk and disco sisters Skyy this Sunday, March 15 at 10 p.m. Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, Skyy was formed in 1973 by songwriter/guitarist Solomon Roberts, Jr. and producer/songwriter Randy Muller. The fabulous Dunning sisters—Denise, Delores and Bonne— joined the group and solidified the band’s place as one of the premiere dance and funk outfits of their day. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RU6uqHMbphM&feature=youtu.be Gospel singer Kirk Franklin, in a discussion to be broadcast this week on Trinity Broadcasting Network, called on white Christian leaders to move beyond “kumbaya moments” and to speak from the pulpit when black people are the subjects of “social injustice happening in the streets.” Franklin made his remarks on TBN’s “Praise” show in a conversation with the network’s president, Matt Crouch, and Dallas pastors Tony Evans and Robert Morris. Their talk is scheduled to air at 8 p.m./7 p.m. Central on Thursday (March 12) on the Christian network. The conversation stemmed from Franklin’s announcement in the fall that he would boycott the Gospel Music Association’s Dove Awards after comments he made about race and police shootings during the GMA’s Oct. 15 awards show were edited from the show’s broadcast on TBN. Jazz pianist and bandleader, Daniel Weatherspoon, releases his follow up jazz album, Journey on March 10. A Grammy, Stellar and Dove award winning producer and musical director, Weatherspoon’s colorful resume includes production on such gospel staples as "Encourage Yourself" by Donald Lawrence, "Praise is What I Do" by Shekinah Glory and "More Than Anything" by Lamar Campbell. He was also featured playing keys for Beyonce’s Live at Wembley and as musical director for The Clark Sister’s reunion album among many other credits. Journey features such talents as singer/songwriter Leon Timbo, Snarky Puppy’s Mark Lettieri and percussionist Javier Solis and lures you in with a spirited and warm revival of Eric Clapton’s "Change the World" featuring the incomparable PJ Morton with Xavier Lynn and Timbo. Dream Label Group/Capital Christian Records Gospel has signed recording artist Pastor Michael Portley & Students of David. The Kansas City native is a kingdom enthusiast and unapologetic gospeltarian. Pastor Portley is a musician by gifting, author of song by inheritance, and a carrier of the word by divine ordinationand impartation. His musical talents have been presented and sung as far as Japan. Pastor Michael Portley & Students of David's official label debut album is set to drop July 2020. The reported postponement of the music festival comes as authorities in the Coachella Valley region confirmed three new cases of the coronavirus on Monday. The cases were confirmed by the Riverside County Department of Public Health. There were growing calls for the festival to be shut down, particularly after the coronavirus outbreak led to the cancellation of SXSW in Texas and Ultra electronic music festival in Miami. Pearl Jam is postponing the North American leg of its Gigaton world tour because of concerns over the new coronavirus, the band announced Monday. Seventeen U.S. and Canadian performances, beginning on March 18 in Toronto through April 19 in Oakland, California, were indefinitely postponed, according to the band’s website. Pearl Jam said it was announcing the postponements “with deep frustration and regret.” Hollywood continued to shuffle its upcoming releases due to the coronavirus, as Sony Pictures on Tuesday announced that it’s moving “Peter Rabbit 2” to August. “Peter Rabbit 2” had been set to hit U.K. and European theaters on March 27, and open in the U.S. on April 3. Instead, Sony said the sequel to 2018's “Peter Rabbit” will launch on Aug. 7. Cinemas have been closed in China for several weeks. On Monday, Italy shuttered all of its theaters. In many countries, health experts are advocating social distancing to help prevent the spread of the virus. The GMA (Gospel Music Association) has announced the 7th Annual GMA Honors and Hall of Fame Induction will take place on Wednesday, May 6th in Nashville, Tennessee. The 2020 Hall of Fame inductees include 4Him (CCM), Bill Hearn (non-performing), Commissioned (Gospel) and The Isaacs (Southern Gospel). The 2020 honorees are Chris Tomlin for Angel Armies, Steve Moore for The Shalom Foundation, Wes Campbell and Dave Wagner for Thriving Children's Foundation (TCA), and Willie Moore Jr. for Bethany Christian Services. Presenters and performers will be announced in the coming weeks. Celebrating its Sapphire Anniversary, the Steeple Awards, the largest awards show with a national presence is set for Saturday, April 25, 2020. All roads lead to New Life Church 3592 Flat Shoals Road, Decatur GA 30034. Now in its fifth year, The Steeple Awards brings together Gospel’s brightest stars, legendary icons and prolific pastors who are on the frontline in their communities. The Steeple Awards, mantra, is America’s Church Homecoming and the goal is to transform lives. This year’s Steeple Awards will be hosted by Cocoa Brown. The show will also feature live performances from Ricky Dillard & New G, Isaac Carree, a tribute to late great Rev. Dr. Clay Evans by Bishop JD Means, a tribute to Kim Burrell and a performance by Pastor Mike Jr. Saturday, March 28, 2020, family, friends, constituents and the beloved community will honor Congressman John Lewis at the historic Tabernacle in Atlanta to celebrate his milestone 80th birthday. The evenings confirmed guests including Kerry Kennedy, Bebe Winans, CeCe Winans, Tip "T.I." Harris, Peggy Wallace Kennedy, Cassi Davis Patton, Terrence C. Carson, Jamey Johnson, Bryan Stevenson, historian Douglas Brinkley and special video from President Obama, with more guests to be announced in the coming weeks. Last Call know for the hit song "Victory" has now debuted #1 across all genres of music on I Tunes with new single. "No Greater Love". What a birthday blessing for Tricray Astwood who is one of the group members. Last Call who was discovered by Apostle Veryl Howard on the beautiful island of Bermuda is signed to Dark Child Records under the musical genius Fred Jerkins. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/lastcall_intvw.htm Kobe Bryant‘s eldest daughter Natalia stopped to pose with a mural honoring her late dad and little sister Gianna as she headed to her winter formal. On Sunday, Vanessa Bryant shared a photo of her 17-year-old all dressed up and ready to attend her high school dance. Ahead of the formal, Natalia posed for photos in front of a tribute mural painted to honor Kobe, 41, and 13-year-old sister Gigi, both who died in the tragic Jan. 26 helicopter crash in Calabasas, California. https://www.instagram.com/p/B9fQ8bWjxyA/?utm_source=ig_embed On International Women’s Day to commemorate the occasion, TIME magazine has released a special double issue featuring 100 covers of women who defined a century, choosing one woman per year from 1920 through 2019. The founders of the Black Lives Matter movement are on the list, which include political heavyweights, celebrity notables, dignitaries and trailblazers such as Michelle Obama, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Oprah Winfrey, Aretha Franklin, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Chien-Shiung Wu, Beyoncé, Serena Williams, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Marsha P. Johnson, Toni Morrison, and Billie Holliday. Patrisse Cullors, Alicia Garza and Opal Tometi represent the year 2013, for when the hasthtag #BlackLivesMatter went viral following the acquittal of George Zimmerman for the heinous killing of unarmed Florida teenager Trayvon Martin. John Merchant, the first black person to be elected to the USGA’s executive committee and a former unpaid counsel to Tiger Woods, died Thursday at age 87 after a long illness, his daughter, Susan, announced on Facebook. In the aftermath of the Shoal Creek controversy at the 1990 PGA Championship, former USGA president Sandy Tatum made it “a personal mission” to diversify the association’s Executive Committee. In 1992, he recruited Merchant, a lawyer and consumer counsel for the state of Connecticut, making him the first black person to be elected to the USGA’s most powerful committee. Merchant had been a pioneer before. He was the first black graduate of the University of Virginia law school, arriving on campus in 1955, one year after Brown vs. Board of Education. For the first time ever, on March 26th, singer/songwriter Tarralyn Ramsey will celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the release of her classic debut self-titled album by performing the entire project live in Las Vegas, during Stellar Awards week. Tarralyn Ramsey, in 2000, wowed the gospel world with her self-titled breakthrough album “Tarralyn Ramsey." http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/tarralyn_ramsey_intvw.htm Howard University alumna Lesli Foster served as mistress of ceremonies for the 153rd Charter Day Dinner Saturday, March 7, 2020. Foster is an award-winning journalist and mainstay of Washington news as a weeknight anchor for WUSA9. The entertainment for the evening was Grammy Award-winning Vocalist Yolanda Adams. Anyone who attended one church in Northwest Washington, D.C., on certain dates in February and March is being told to self-quarantine for 14 days because of possible exposure to the coronavirus, D.C.’s mayor said Monday morning. Additionally, Mayor Muriel Bowser said she is considering declaring a state of emergency and will decide later Monday. The city secured a lease for a potential quarantine facility in the event that it is needed, she said. A rector at Christ Church Georgetown tested positive for coronavirus. The church confirmed later Monday that 550 parishioners who went to a service on March 1 were “in voluntary self-quarantine” through March 9. It wasn’t immediately clear how many others were observing a quarantine. Civil rights icon and former Democratic presidential candidate Jesse Jackson endorsed Sen. Bernie Sanders at a rally in Michigan on Sunday — two days before voters go to the polls in a critical primary contest in the Midwest state. Jackson recalled how Sanders backed his presidential bid in 1988 in Vermont against Massachusetts Gov. Michael Dukakis. In a statement, Jackson referred to former Vice President Joe Biden a “fine and decent man” who could also defeat President Trump in November. The Dallas Cowboys and quarterback Dak Prescott have been working on a new deal for quite some time, and a potentially tempting offer reportedly just landed on Prescott’s desk. According to Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News, the Cowboys are prepared to make their quarterback one of the highest-paid players in NFL history. Watkins reports that the Cowboys met with Prescott’s representation twice since the the NFL combine — which ended March 2. They reportedly offered Prescott a contract which includes an average salary of $33 million with $105 million guaranteed. This contract would exceed Aaron Rodgers‘ deal in both total money and guaranteed money. Russell Wilson of the Seattle Seahawks reset the market with his four-year, $140 million contract which included $107 million guaranteed — $70 million that was guaranteed when pen hit paper. New Birth Missionary Baptist Church pastor Jamal Bryant warned his congregation in Stonecrest, Georgia, that the popular brand of disinfectant and antiseptic known as Lysol will not protect them from Covid-19 caused by the new coronavirus, but the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says it can. “They are calling it in clinical terms the novel coronavirus. It’s clinical name is SARS-CoV-2. … The World Health Organization said two weeks ago in their press release, ‘we could not heal it until we named it. … As long as it didn’t have a name we couldn’t identify it. We had to identify it that this is different than any other strand of virus that has been dispatched because coronavirus is not new,” Bryant told his congregants in a teaching session centered around the coronavirus on Tuesday. McCoy Tyner, a pianist whose deep resonance, hammering attack and sublime harmonic invention made him a game-changing catalyst in jazz and beyond, died Friday, March 6, at his home in New Jersey. His death was confirmed by his manager. No cause of death was given. He was 81. Tyner was the last surviving member of the John Coltrane Quartet. Legendary movie director and Knicks superfan Spike Lee has been attending games at Madison Square Garden for 28 years. However, after a bizarre dispute before the Knicks’ game against the Houston Rockets Monday night, Lee says he won’t be attending another game this season. In fact, the Knicks superfan said that he’s already given away the rest of his tickets for the last 20 games this season. The Oscar-winning director also said that the Brooklyn Nets reached out to him, but that he isn’t thinking about changing his fandom. When Lee asked Dolan at halftime why he wasn’t told about the new policy, the Knicks owner said rudely, “now, you know.” “The Way Back” with construction worker Jack Cunningham is unlike any character Ben Affleck has ever played before — he’s not trying to impress anyone. There’s no twinkle in his eye, no swagger in his step, no “smartest guy in the room” energy to the way he carries himself. He murmurs when he talks, drinks a beer in the shower every morning, and sparks to the salesman at his neighborhood liquor store as if that’s the only stable relationship he still has left in his life. https://youtu.be/GhtTc7R8yBk ; The forthcoming film “The Banker” should motivate the church to address the issues of financial literacy, caring for the “least of these,” and perseverance in the face of adversity, according to stars Samuel L. Jackson, Anthony Mackie, and Nia Long. https://youtu.be/J_-nk9-sMus Millions have watched YouTube videos of Benita Jones leading worship and singing popular gospel songs such as “You Deserve It” and “Good Good Father.” Friday, March 6, the veteran worship and praise leader will release a soon-to-be anthem of her own, “Good God” (Tyscot/Integrity). This high-energy live performance is infectiously singable and catchy. It blends the fervor of a rock song with the passionately relentless drive of a Pentecostal vamp – with Jones’ colorful, explosive vocals at the center. Jamel Kimbrough, known for his work with Todd Dulaney and Bri Babineaux, gives the production the extra sophisticated polish to elevate it above the average praise and worship offerings. LECRAE "I'LL FIND YOU" FT TORI KELLY GOES PLATINUM!!! 62 MILLION YOUTUBE VIEWS https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jv8IqJm6q7w&feature=youtu.be "Lately the world’s been goin crazy. Hate divides, but love’s the one thing that unifies," expresses singer/songwriter, Carl Brister, on his socially conscious new single “L.O.V.E. (What The World Needs).” Layered against his signature mix of lush harmonies, warm tones, and high falsetto, L.O.V.E. is a retro soul throwback song with a message that penetrates the soul, touches the heart, and brings people together. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZsWHDKgPB2s&feature=youtu.be NEXT WEEK'S LINE-UP ON SISTER CIRCLE INCLUDES ACTORS ESSENCE ATKINS, JASMINE GUY, GOSPEL SINGER DEITRICK HADDON, NBA PLAYER VINCE CARTER AND MORE! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t_Nee8Slq1E Bryan Popin retuens with "Beautiful Savior" featuring Tasha. https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/BRYAN-POPIN-BEAUTIFUL-SAVIOR-FEAT.-TASHA-7CQOcesetI6Am8nR5LXKV For the first time in the 175-year history of the Southern Baptist Convention, one of its historic boards will have an African American woman trustee chair. Renée A. Trewick was elected March 2 by GuideStone trustees. She is a vice president at Marsh USA in New York and is active in Southern Baptist life. She served as vice chair of the GuideStone board in 2019. Her other Southern Baptist service includes serving on the executive board and finance committee of her local association. Trustees met in scheduled session March 2–3 in Dallas. Calling sage burning “witchcraft” and “satanic aromatherapy,” Pastor Jamal Bryant of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Stonecrest, Georgia, warned his members on Monday to stay away from the practice. In a teaching session with the women of his church streamed on YouTube, Bryant explained that he had to dive into some research on the practice after two members of his church gifted him sage for his new home in Atlanta. After researching the practice, however, Bryant has concluded that it is a demonic New Age practice that Christians shouldn’t be involved with. BE INSPIRED BY BEST-SELLING AUTHOR AND MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER DEVI BROWN ON CLEO SPEAKS THIS SATURDAY, MARCH 7 AT 9 A.M. ET/8C, FOLLOWED BY GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING ARTIST ESTELLE AT 9:15 A.M. ET/8:15C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahPav7fkAlE&feature=youtu.be JUST EATS WITH CHEF JJ Infuses a Touch of Soul Into an Italian Favorite with Media Personalities Selena Hill and Rae Holliday at 12 P.M. ET/11C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LeXxcOGdEzQ&feature=youtu.be ALL THINGS ADRIENNE WITH ADRIENNE HOUGHTON Creates a Selena-Themed Fiesta on a New Episode at 1 P.M. ET/12C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wBlhtXdh7Gc&feature=youtu.be Husband and wife Contemporary Gospel duo and Worship leaders, Jerard & Jovaun made their debut in 2019 with WHAT A BEAUTIFUL NAME EP. Jerard and Jovaun Woods became well-known together through their YouTube video performances. They are seasoned background vocalists with dozens of live and studio sessions recorded with BeBe & CeCe Winans, Donnie McClurkin, Michael W. Smith, Amy Grant, Natalie Grant, Andrae Crouch, Kim Burrell, Michael McDonald, Wynona Judd, Jonny Lang, among many others. Jerard & Jovaun now serve as worship leaders at Bethesda Community Church in Fort Worth, TX. With two hit singles under their belt, "What A Beautiful Name" (Hillsong) and "The Potter's House" (Tramaine & Walter Hawkins), Jerard & Jovaun are adding two 2020 Stellar Gospel Music Award Nominations to their credit. They will head to Las Vegas, NV March 27-28 with nominations for New Artist of the Year and Contemporary Duo/Chorus Group of the Year and to perform on the Stellar Awards Pre-Show. In addition, they have just garnered new management with industry veteran Roderick Jemison of Jemison & Associates. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lus2TR_Qy6E&feature=youtu.be ATL-based emerging independent artist, Daphney Hilton, proudly presents her mid-tempo, contemporary single, “All of Me.” Connect with Daphney socially via FB: DaphneyHilton Instagram: DaphneyHilton. The four-time Olympic gold medalist and 25-time World Championships medalist Simone Biles has more than her fair share of things to be confident about. But as a young black girl competing in a sport historically dominated by white and Asian athletes, Biles didn’t always boast the self-assurance she now exudes as the greatest gymnast in the history of the sport. While promoting her partnership with the skincare brand SK-II, Biles spoke at length about her struggles with social-media trolls, the public fixation on her appearance, and the effect race had on both. Biles and several other Olympic athletes joined the company’s Beauty is #NoCompetition campaign, which draws attention to the toxic role physical appearance often plays in women’s sports. PBS has prevailed on its claim that Tavis Smiley breached a morals clause. On Wednesday, a Washington, D.C., jury returned a verdict in favor of the public broadcaster and decided that the former late night talk show host should pay $1.486 million. In 2017, PBS suspended Smiley upon allegations of sexual misconduct. As the #MeToo movement gained steam, PBS wished to disassociate itself with a television personality accused of behaving inappropriately toward subordinates. The case then became a rare test of morals clauses. At trial, PBS presented more than half a dozen women who spoke how they were pressured into relationships or had become the victim of unwanted advances. Smiley insisted the relationships were consensual, and the jury had to consider whether the morals clauses covered the conduct alleged. Hollywood director Spike Lee compared black Trump supporters praying for the president to house slaves. “Massa, We Love You Massa. We Gonna Pray Fo’ You Massa, Singing- “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot,” the BlacKkKlansman director posted to Instagram earlier this week in response to a photo taken in the White House. The Cabinet Room meeting, which took place last week as part of a Black History Month celebration, was attended by actor Isaiah Washington, boxing champion Andre Berto, former NFL player Jack Brewer, author Candace Owens, conservative personalities Diamond & Silk and others. Trump and Lee have clashed in the past, most notably following the director’s speech while accepting the best adapted screenplay Oscar for BlacKkKlansman. The frustrations began early for Ahmed King as he wandered Houston trying to cast his ballot in Texas’ Democratic primary. The 46-year-old radiology technician went to four usual polling places Tuesday in his predominantly African American neighborhood. Three were closed and the fourth had little parking and an hour-plus wait, he said. King finally learned about another polling place in a white and Hispanic neighborhood with little wait. A new system allows voters to cast their ballot anywhere in Harris County, so he drove 15 miles to vote there. King had plenty of company. Long lines snaked out of Houston polling places, with many waiting more than an hour and some for several hours in mostly minority, Democratic neighborhoods. Lines in mostly white, Republican neighborhoods were shorter. Grammy & Stellar nominee Renee Spearman has been added to the Gospel Superfest special 20th anniversary live TV spectacular! Featuring some of the biggest names in gospel including Hezekiah Walker, Donald Lawrence, Shirley Caesar & more, the Gospel Superfest returns to Dayton, OH on Sat, June 20th. Described as the biggest show in gospel music television, the Gospel Superfest is truly an one-of-a-kind production. The Gospel Superfest is a best-in-class production hosted by Hollywood “A” listers such as this year’s host Vivica A. Fox. After more than 20 years in development, the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) is ready to open its doors to music lovers of all ages. The 56,000 square foot facility located in the heart of downtown Nashville will officially open to guests on Thursday, September 3, 2020 kicking off a Labor Day weekend packed with grand opening events that will help introduce NMAAM to Nashville and the world. YOU ARE THE ONE produced by Stellar Award Winning producer Sean Keys. The sound behind Isabel Davis and Keyla Richardson, Keys matches his anointing with the beautiful voice of KARA NICHOLE! TV One's award-winning documentary series UNSUNG features R&B singer and actor Christopher Williams this Sunday, March 8 at 10 p.m. ET/9C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U66UTH2tUEM&feature=youtu.be Oklahoma Christian University’s president apologized and promised change after an admissions counselor representing the university at an area public school asked students to arrange themselves by skin tone and hair texture. The since-fired counselor, Cedric Sunray, “led a racist activity that was offensive, harmful and inappropriate,” President John deSteiguer told about 60 students, faculty and community members Sunday afternoon (March 1). The 2,200-student university, which is associated with Churches of Christ, convened the special weekend meeting to address Sunray’s actions. PENNY! Get ready to hear Oscar Proud’s voice ringing in your ears again soon, because the Proud family is coming back in The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder, which will be streaming on Disney+! In an August 2019 interview with Where Is the Buzz, Tommy Davidson — aka the voice of Oscar Proud — mentioned that the show would be returning with new episodes on Disney’s streaming app, though he did say, “They told me not to tell nobody.” Oops! Disney confirmed on Feb. 27 that the new series is in officially in production. The Bank of America has given a $250,000 grant toward the construction of a memorial to honor the nine African American parishioners at Mother Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church who were murdered by a white supremacist. The Mother Emanuel Memorial Foundation announced the grant Monday, with the memorial construction project expected to cost around $10 million. The foundation has already raised, as of Monday, around $7 million. This includes an earlier grant of $500,000 from Wells Fargo and a pledge of $1 million from the Robert and Janice McNair Foundation. The memorial will feature two large benches meant to resemble “sheltering wings” and a marble fountain that includes the names of those killed. Tornadoes struck central Tennessee early Tuesday morning leaving at least 22 people dead, more than 150 hospitalized and thousands without power. One of the massive ‘supercells’ swept through downtown Nashville, knocking out power and tearing through at least 50 buildings. More than 47,800 were without power, according to Nashville Electric Service who said four of its substations were damaged. Half of those are customers are located in the Hermitage area. BET+ announced the new original drama from Tyler Perry, “Tyler Perry’s Ruthless,” will premiere Thursday, March 19, 2020, exclusively across all platforms the service is available. Three episodes, of the 24-episode one-hour drama, will be available to stream with new episodes launching every Thursday. “Tyler Perry’s Ruthless” is the first new original series from Tyler Perry to stream on BET+, a joint venture between BET Networks and Tyler Perry Studios. “Tyler Perry’s Ruthless,” a spin-off of the hit television series “Tyler Perry’s The Oval,” tells the riveting story of a woman named Ruth who kidnaps her young daughter to join her in the dark underworld of a fanatical religious cult.“Tyler Perry’s Ruthless” stars Melissa L. Williams, Matt Cedeño, Lenny D. Thomas, Yvonne Senat Jones, Baadja-Lyne Odums, Jaime Callica, Nirine S. Brown, Blue Kimble, Stephanie Charles, Hervé Clermont, Anthony Bless, and Bobbi Baker. In a stunning move that marks the end of an era for one of the entertainment industry’s great corporate success stories, Bob Iger on Tuesday stepped down as chief executive of Walt Disney Co. after 15 years in the job. Bob Chapek, a 27-year Disney veteran who most recently led the company’s massively important parks and consumer products business, was named Iger’s successor, effective immediately. Iger, 69, has assumed the role of executive chairman, the company said. In that role, he will direct the Burbank entertainment giant’s creative endeavors and help guide the company’s board through the leadership transition until the end of his contract on Dec. 31, 2021, Disney said in a statement. The United States Air Force is set to have its first black service chief, Defense Department officials said on Monday. General Charles Q. Brown Jr., known widely as C.Q., has been nominated as the next Air Force chief of staff, officials said. If he is confirmed by the Senate, General Brown will become the rare African-American officer to sit on the elite Joint Chiefs of Staff. Previously, Colin L. Powell served as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff while an Army general. WATCH BRANDY & RAY J CO-HOST "THE TALK" ON CBS WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4, 2020. The NBA has told players to avoid high-fiving fans and strangers and avoid taking any item for autographs, the league’s latest response in its ongoing monitoring of the coronavirus crisis. The league, in a memo sent to teams Sunday and obtained Monday by The Associated Press, offered 10 recommendations to players with hopes of decreasing risks of getting the virus — among them, not taking items such as pens, markers, balls and jerseys from autograph seekers. The NBA also told teams that it is consulting “with infectious disease experts, including the Centers for Disease Control” and infectious disease researchers at Columbia University in New York. A new streaming service of the same caliber as Tidal or Apple Music has finally arrived for Christians and its name is GODIFY! GODIFY, Christian music and entertainment's newest streaming service is now available to download on Android and iPhone devices. GODIFY offers a family-friendly streaming experience that boasts an impressive catalog of Christian music, videos, movies, shows and original content including Godify exclusive music, live theatrical productions, movies, webisodes, and reality-tv programs. GODIFY originated as a vision in the heart of Hip Hop recording artist and former writer for Sean P.Diddy Combs, Nucci Reyo. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fnKMT5KVI-0&feature=youtu.be Actress Kerry Washington has a new look.The change would be her new hairstyle. It's a bit radical and a shocker because, after years of going big and bold, she suddenly goes small or “simplistic.” In the new issue of Porter magazine, the former “Scandal” star goes minimal with a fresh, sleek do just in time for spring. Washington has her own production company, Simpson Street, it is currently co-producing “Little Fires Everywhere,” her upcoming Hulu miniseries with Reese Witherspoon. Ramona Hood has become the first Black woman appointed to president and chief executive officer at what is now FedEx Custom Critical in Green, Ohio. Hood was a 19-year-old single mother when she started as a receptionist at the company. Nearly three decades later, she is making headlines after being tapped to head the subsidiary. Judge Judy Sheindlin announced on the “Ellen DeGeneres Show” Monday that after 25 years, the “Judge Judy” show is coming to an end. But it’s not totally over for the former Manhattan family court judge. She already has her a new series “Judy Justice” in the works. There will be a full year of new episodes of “Judge Judy” in 2021 before the 25th season wraps. Sunday, Chuck D revealed to Rolling Stone that the group would be moving forward without Flavor Flav. "Public Enemy and Public Enemy Radio will be moving forward without Flavor Flav," the group said in a statement. "We thank him for his years of service and wish him well." This comes after Flav sent a cease-and-desist letter to the Bernie Sanders campaign following Chuck D announcing that the group would be performing at a livestreamed Bernie Sanders rally Sunday. Prior to formally excommunicating Flavor Flav, Chuck took to Twitter where he pointed to multiple times that Flav refused to support the group. "Public Enemy and Public Enemy Radio will be moving forward without Flavor Flav," the group said in a statement. "We thank him for his years of service and wish him well." Chuck and his lawyers also warned Flav that he could be kicked out of the group if he continues to pursue his dispute with Bernie Sanders. The Game Changer Gala and its Co-Chairs, Gayle Benson and Drew Brees, are excited to announce the lineup for the 2020 event in New Orleans on March 21. The Game Changer Gala helps raise critical funds for ALS research and patient empowerment, supporting both Team Gleason and Answer ALS. Team Gleason strives to provide solutions for those living with ALS now and Answer ALS is the single largest coordinated and collaborative effort to end ALS in the history of the disease. Team Gleason and Answer ALS' Game Changer Gala 2020 Lineup includes Emmy and Peabody Award-winning writer, actor, and producer Keegan-Michael Key the Emcee with Grammy award-winning artists Weezer, Leon Bridges and Cynthia Erivo. Illusionist and finalist on America's Got Talent Jon Dorenbos will perform, as well as the incredible St. Paul and the Broken Bones. GRAMMY® Award-winning gospel singer/songwriter TASHA COBBS LEONARD has announced plans to record her next album live at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium. The concert event, Royalty: Live at The Ryman, is set to take place on Monday, May 4, 2020 at 7:30pm, the powerhouse vocalist shared on social media earlier today. Choir director extraordinaire, Jason McGee & The Choir releases their new single “It’s Not Over,” today on all digital platforms. The LA-based choir has been making waves over the last few years with innovative and fresh choir music. Working with longtime collaborators Warryn Campbell and Gerald Haddon, “It’s Not Over,” is a perfectly timed ballad. The message is necessary encouragement for today’s uncertain and troubled time. A UCLA gymnast has gone viral for her incredible floor routine set to a mashup of Beyoncé’s hits — and she even got a few celebrity shout outs following the jaw-dropping performance. Nia Dennis wowed the judges with her Queen Bey-inspired routine when the UCLA Bruins faced off against the Utah Red Rocks on Sunday, which also happened to be her milestone 21st birthday. https://youtu.be/7Uw2feLb00c Tony Romo is staying at CBS, signing a long-term deal to remain as the network’s lead NFL analyst. The deal is worth $17 million a year. Since 2017, Romo has worked alongside play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz. Romo received praise for his knack for predicting the plays that teams would run. In January ESPN was prepared to pursue Romo and make him the highest-paid sports broadcaster in history. Tyler Perry has asked for a second autopsy on his nephew who reportedly committed suicide in prison this week. According to TMZ, Gavin Porter, 26, hanged himself inside his cell at a Louisiana prison. Officials said he used a bedsheet after he was placed in solitary confinement, but Porter’s family has doubts about that. Prison officials insist there was no foul play. A rep from the Union Parish Sheriff’s Office tells TMZ, “There is an active investigation at the prison’s request. We are currently awaiting the results of an autopsy. The initial investigation did not suspect foul play. We are also conducting an investigation into the fight which occurred earlier and Porter’s involvement in that incident.” Just like Madonna, who took a spill from a chair while performing on stage Friday night, Oprah found herself horizontal Saturday after taking a tumble during a speaking tour stop. Oh wow, how embarrassing. But O’s OK, though. That’s the bottom line. The scene was the Forum, just outside LA in Inglewood, CA. She was there, as we said up top, on her speaking tour. Ironically, the topic of discussion on the monitor behind her was “Wellness: All things in balance.” https://youtu.be/scBYH_5nMJU The Gospel Spotlight's Kierra Sheard and "It Keeps Happening." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RO5RPuLqAcc The Gospel Spotlight's "You Deserve" new from Angela Moss Poole. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2bsCIk4TAw&feature=youtu.be Myron Lamarr makes his debut with "Work It." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uib8EkwE2_A The Gospel Spotlight's "It's Gonna Be Alright" the new single from Jermaine Dolly. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nJlIGAKzMYG_Qn2givnAdPU_JnhOlpGN/view The Stellar Gospel Music Awards will honor Blacksmoke Music Worldwide Founder and CEO Kerry Douglas with induction into the 2020 Stellar Honors Hall of Fame. Kerry Douglas has a genuine love for music and penchant for promotion that has produced a continuous slate of top Gospel radio hits while introducing a new roster of Gospel luminaries including quartet favorites Keith Wonderboy Johnson, Damon Little and Evelyn Turrentine Agee, power balladeer Earnest Pugh, Grammy and Stellar nominated songwriters James Fortune and Greg O Quinn and the incomparable in- a- class- all- by- himself supernova known as Zacardi Cortez. He is a musical mastermind who has maintained relevance and consistency for more than 20 years. CLEO TV features a lineup of all-new episodes sure to empower and entertain this Saturday, February 29. First, CLEO SPEAKS spotlights two advocates working to impact the technology industry starting with Valeisha Butterfield-Jones, Google's Global Head of Community and Inclusion, at 9 A.M. ET/8c followed by Janaye Ingram, Director of National Partnerships for Airbnb, at 9:15 A.M ET/8:15C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUR79Dd6BiQ&feature=youtu.be JUST EATS WITH CHEF JJ features a dinner party for guests including Singer Leela James, Supermodel Afiya Bennett and Fitness Trainer LLoyd Dickenson at 12 P.M. ET/ 11C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m32PZarFFSg&feature=youtu.be ALL THINGS ADRIENNE WITH ADRIENNE HOUGHTON has a fun game of who knows Adrienne best between husband, Israel Houghton and mother Nilida Felix beginning at 1 P.M. ET/ 12C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FboR8AcH2-0&feature=youtu.be MALI MUSIC PERFORMS LIVE TONIGHT ON THE TAMMI MAC LATE SHOW ON FOX SOUL AT 9 P.M. PST Actor Nicholas Pinnock doesn’t just believe his new network TV show can save lives. He believes it can save network TV, too. Pinnock stars in “For Life,” ABC’s mid-season drama about a prison inmate unjustly incarcerated who becomes a lawyer. Social justice issues are baked into every episode, not to mention exploring racial inequality and prison reform. Pinnock was initially skeptical if ABC was the right home for his edgy and inventive show, but he’s been impressed by the network’s backing. “For Life” airs on Tuesday nights opposite less demanding shows like “New Amsterdam” or “FBI: Most Wanted.” Kerwin Danley became the first African American umpire crew chief in Major League Baseball when a series of promotions, additions and retirements were announced Thursday. The moves included Alfonso Marquez being elevated to the first Hispanic crew chief in MLB history born outside the United States and second overall. Crew chiefs Jeff Kellogg, Dana DeMuth, Gary Cederstrom and Mike Everitt have retired. Kellogg and Everitt will move into jobs as MLB umpire supervisors. Two-time GRAMMY award- winning hip-hop artist, entrepreneur, speaker, thought leader, philanthropist, and New York Times bestselling author Lecrae Moore has signed a contract with Zondervan for his new book, I Am Restored: How I Lost My Religion but Found My Faith, which releases October 13, 2020. In his first book, the New York Times bestseller Unashamed, Lecrae was transparent about adversities experienced in his life—childhood abuse, drugs, alcoholism, a stint in rehab, abortion, growing up fatherless, and an unsuccessful suicide attempt. In I Am Restored, Lecrae shares how growing stronger in his faith has helped him create transformation in the lives of others. Lecrae bares his soul, sharing deep wounds, past trauma, and conflicts with family, church, and personal challenges in hopes that his process of restoration will help others. In honor of Women’s History Month starting next week, which focuses on the exemplary contributions women have made in America, T.D. Jakes’ International Leadership Summit is announcing female leaders who will be joining him at the annual gathering this spring. Paula Williams Madison, Lisa Opoku and Lady Gifty Tetteh—who will all be on the courage to influence panel—as well as speakers Ivy McGregor and Hattie Hill, are all women who are leading the charge in their respective fields. The International Leadership Conference is a conference for visionaries, entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, pastors and leaders from all over the world, looking to expand their personal sphere of influence and sharpen their skills. On February 22, the Congressional Black Caucus Institute (CBCI) announced a scholarship to honor Reverend Clementa C. Pinckney, former State Senator and senior pastor at Mother Emanuel AME Church who was killed with eight others in a racially motivated massacre in 2015. The CBCI seeks to continue his legacy of excitement and enthusiasm for political activism and empowerment by funding a scholarship to our political boot camp training for future leaders in his honor. The official announcement was made at a press conference at Mother Emanuel AME Church where the CBCI is also conducting an Advocacy and Campaign Training (ACT) workshop. TV One's award-winning documentary series UNSUNG features legendary rapper Roxanne Shante this Sunday, March 1 at 10 p.m. ET/9C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9f4gqWMEqA&feature=youtu.be Ashley Graham is an American model who has taken the fashion industry by storm, becoming one of the most popular faces in the modeling world and a positive role model particularly for women who are classified as “curvy” or “plus-sized”. Known for her accessibility and body confidence, she has been described as an ambassador of the “real beauty” movement, which celebrates how women actually look rather than the impossible standards set by the fashion industry. With her increasing popularity, she has graced the covers of the world’s biggest fashion magazines, including Vogue, Elle, and Harper’s Bazaar and has walked the runway for major fashion brands and designers. Her rise in the modeling world and fashion industry as a whole has defied traditional expectations and her presence has created a space in the industry for many other women like her. Along with being a top model and body positivity activist, she is also a television presenter, speaker, designer, podcast host and entrepreneur. As proud as she is of her accomplishments, she is equally proud of her Christian faith and isn’t afraid to use her platform to share her testimony with fans and followers. The 32-year-old spoke to Harper’s Bazaar UK in 2019 where she candidly discussed how her Christian beliefs have helped her make sense of her fame as one of the most sought-after models in the fashion industry. Latice Crawford is a woman of many talents. Sunday Best starlet, Model, Actress, Mom, & she has a passion for cooking! The Gospel Spotlight's "Amazing." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5X9NzEH-nVo&feature=youtu.be The Brown Missionary Baptist Choir (BMBC) will embark on recording original music and Gospel favorites for national release this year. The 125-voice choir has demonstrated their skill and covered some of Gospel's greatest classic hymns and Worship songs including Gospel artist Demetrius West and Jesus Promoters hit song "ChoirOlogy". https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOquzqDhEL8&feature=youtu.be Jada Pinkett Smith confronted Snoop Dogg over how he publicly berated Gayle King after she dredged up Kobe Bryant’s rape allegations in the wake of the basketball star’s death. https://www.facebook.com/redtabletalk/videos/671677336908503/ RCA Inspiration celebrates Kirk Franklin, who garnered his latest NAACP Image Award win at this year’s 51st NAACP Image Awards. Franklin won in the category of Outstanding Gospel/Christian Song (Traditional or Contemporary) for his #1 smash hit “Love Theory.” Featured off his thirteenth studio album LONG LIVE LOVE, the Image Award continues a winning streak for the revered Gospel superstar, songwriter, and producer, who won two GRAMMY® Awards last month for “Love Theory” and LONG LIVE LOVE. Overcoming Church recorded and released their debut Gospel EP in 2019. Pastor Bruce Farr presented his Overcoming Church Generations of Praise Choir to a national audience with their MAKING ROOM FOR US live EP. The project allows listeners to experience the vibrant and unrestricted Praise and Worship that occurs each week at Overcoming Church. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VC2oJISWVQM&feature=youtu.be Coming off the success of their #2 Billboard Radio hit, “Open the Floodgates”, Stellar Award Nominees Demetrius West and Jesus Promoters (JP) return with a new single entitled, “I’m Next”. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KXyLponAZ8&feature=youtu.be Award-winning entertainment executive Jovan Dawkins is proud to announce the launch of his newly created inspirational record label, Legacy Music Group which is deeply rooted from Dawkins’ ministerial background. Being raised in the church, Dawkins’ inspirational label launch is a natural progression as part of his life of service. In keeping with family legacy, Dawkins has tapped multitalented GRAMMY® nominated singer, songwriter and cousin Eric Dawkins as President of A&R of Legacy Music Group. As a former member of hit-making production team Underdogs, Dawkins has experienced a string of success penning, producing and collaborating with top tier talent including Christina Aguilera, Justin Bieber, Mary J. Blige, Chris Brown, Toni Braxton, Mary Mary, BeBe Winans, Fred Hammond, Babyface, Tyrese and many more. The NAACP recently celebrated the stellar achievements of the 51st NAACP Image Awards winners during a special ceremony which was broadcasted live on BET Saturday, February 22, 2020 from the Pasadena Civic Center Auditorium. Winners of the night included Lizzo (Entertainer of the Year), Angela Bassett (Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series - “9-1-1”), Jamie Foxx (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture – “Just Mercy”), Lupita Nyong’o (Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture – “Us”), Marsai Martin (Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture – “Little”), Tracee Ellis Ross (Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series – “black-ish”) , Michael B. Jordan (Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture--“Just Mercy” and “Just Mercy”(Outstanding Motion Picture). A fan of Baker Mayfield claimed in a new interview that the Cleveland Browns quarterback cheated on his wife, Emily Mayfield, with her in August 2019. Ohio native Kacie Dingess said on the syndicated radio show that she came into contact with Baker, 24, after messaging him on Twitter. She sent him a video of herself shotgunning a beer at a 2019 preseason Browns game, mimicking a viral clip of him doing the same that August. She alleged that he added her on Snapchat soon after. After Dingess, 20, confirmed that she was alone, the NFL star allegedly sent her a selfie to prove that it was actually his account. “He kept texting me, saying like, ‘Send me pictures’ and blah, blah, blah,” she claimed. “We were texting for a while, and then he was like, ‘OK, come see me.’ So I got in my car and I drove all the way to Westlake, and it was like behind Cheesecake Factory in some weird development parking lot. And so he texted me when I was on my way there and he was like, ‘You have to leave your phone in the car.’” On the day of his memorial service, Kobe Bryant‘s widow, Vanessa, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the company that owned the helicopter that crashed on January 26 killing the former Lakers star, his daughter Gianna and 7 others. Vanessa Bryant’s lawsuit alleges Island Express was only allowed to fly under visual flight rules, and the conditions the day of the crash were not conducive for such flying. The fog was extremely low and the pilot was in blinding conditions before the mishap. “Defendant Island Express Helicopters’ breach of its duty and negligence caused the injuries and damages complained of herein and Plaintiffs’ deceased, Kobe Bryant, was killed as a direct result of the negligent conduct of Zobayan for which Defendant Island Express Helicopters is vicariously liable in all respects,” the lawsuit said. The lawsuit also says the pilot was going 180 miles per hour in the heavy fog in a steep decline. The lawsuit claims the pilot failed to properly monitor and assess the weather prior to takeoff, failed to obtain proper weather data prior to the flight, failed to abort the flight when he knew of the cloudy condition, failed to maintain control of the helicopter and failed to avoid “natural obstacles” in the flight path. God knew they couldn’t be on this earth without each other. He had to bring them home to heaven together,” Vanessa Bryant said of Kobe and their daughter Gianna during her 20-minute eulogy at the emotional memorial in Los Angeles on Monday. The grieving widow and mother added, “They were so easy to love. Everyone naturally gravitated towards them. They were so full of joy and adventure.” The emotional tribute followed Beyoncé’s performance her songs “XO” and “Halo.” https://youtu.be/H5yqwfbWn6E On Monday, after His six-week trial, entertainment mogul Harvey Weinstein was found guilty and convicted by a New York jury on two of five counts, bringing to an end a high-profile sexual assault trial. Weinstein, who suddenly lost his ability to walk on his own leading up to the trial, arrived every day to the 15th-floor courtroom with the aid of a walker. He appeared stoic as six accusers testified; they faced hours of cross-examination, and some broke into tears as they recounted their alleged encounters with the once formidable movie producer. In 1959, Ronald Erwin McNair walked into a South Carolina library. The 9-year-old aspiring astronaut wanted to check out a calculus book, but a librarian threatened to call the police if he didn’t leave. McNair was black. Years later, McNair was selected to become only the second African American to travel to space, overcoming segregation, poverty, and stereotypes in an intellectual act of resistance that inspired a generation. Tragically, McNair died in the 1986 Space Shuttle Challenger tragedy. McNair’s story and those of other black astronauts are shared in a new documentary that looks at the final frontier of civil rights: getting black astronauts into space amid Jim Crow, danger, discrimination and the Cold War. Within four generations, they went from slavery to space. “Black in Space: Breaking the Color Barrier,” scheduled to air Monday on the Smithsonian Channel, examines the race to get black astronauts into the heavens while fighting for human rights onEarth.It shows how the astronauts surmounted racial barriers and hostile commanders to get close to the stars. Tyson Fury pulled off the greatest victory for any English boxer abroad as he stopped America’s KO king Deontay Wilder with an utterly dominant, devastating performance. The Gypsy King arrived in the ring carried on a golden throne and ascended into the pantheon of all-time heavyweight greats on the wings of genius. Fury has now completed a full set of the world heavyweight belts by adding Wilder’s WBC title and the Ring Magazine accolade to the WBA, WBO, IBF and IBO prizes he held previously after defeating Wladimir Klitschko. Thousands of mourners will gather in Staples Center on Monday to say farewell to Kobe and Gianna Bryant. The basketball superstar and his 13-year-old daughter will be honored in a public memorial at the arena where Bryant played for the Los Angeles Lakers.Kobe and Gianna Bryant died along with seven others on Jan. 26 in a helicopter crash. The Celebration of Life will feature speakers reflecting on Kobe Bryant’s impact on his sport and the world, along with music and retrospectives on Bryant’s on-court achievements. Bryant became active in film, television and writing after he retired from basketball in 2016. Bryant’s family, dozens of sports greats and many major figures in Bryant’s public life are expected to attend. https://youtu.be/KCwXMUM3wog Without the precision of "human computer" Katherine Johnson, NASA's storied history might've looked a lot different. Her calculations were responsible for safely rocketing men into space and securing the American lead in the space race against the Soviet Union. For almost her entire life, her seminal work in American space travel went unnoticed. Only recently has Johnson's genius received national recognition. Johnson, a pioneering mathematician who, along with a group of other brilliant black women, made US space travel possible, died this week. She was 101. NASA announced Johnson's death Monday. Johnson was part of NASA's "Computer Pool," a group of mathematicians whose data powered NASA's first successful space missions. The group's success largely hinged on the accomplishments of its black women members. Barbara Smith, a fashion model who created a business empire by catering to the tastes of aspiring black professionals with her restaurants, television shows, bedding and furniture collections and books on entertaining, died on Saturday at her home on Long Island. She was 70. The cause was early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, her family said. Ms. Smith had waged a long and public battle with the disease, which was diagnosed when she was in her 50s. Ms. Smith was best known for her popular Manhattan restaurant, B. Smith. Located at the edge of the theater district, it opened in 1986 and almost immediately attracted a following among affluent black New Yorkers, who welcomed it as a stylish gathering spot. Essence magazine, in 1995, described it as the place “where the who’s who of black Manhattan meet, greet and eat regularly.” Justin Bieber was among hundreds devoted to celebrating Christ at Kanye West’s Sunday Service. While attending the religious gathering, the 25-year-old singer made a surprise performance of Marvin Sapp’s gospel hit Never Would Have Made It to a roaring crowd. ‘Never could have made it, without you,’ Bieber sang, while wearing a red hoodie after a moving performance of Every Hour by West and his chorus in a video shared on Kim Kardashian’s Instagram Story. https://video.dailymail.co.uk/preview/mol/2020/01/16/5181983458122055551/636x382_MP4_5181983458122055551.mp4 Gospel icon Kurt Carr releases the official music video for his star-studded hit single “Bless Somebody Else,” available now. Following its premiere on BET Gospel, the video from the legendary maestro continues to showcase his musical influence and share the message of encouragement and showing love in blessing others. Blessing his song with their own vocal harmonies, the multi-generational powerful talents of Erica Campbell, Faith Evans, Fred Hammond, Jekalyn Carr, John P. Kee, Keke Wyatt, Miles Caton, Bishop Paul S. Morton, Roosevelt Griffin, Smokie Norful, Wess Morgan, and Yolanda Adams. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QiUlTOqa8kQ Authorities found the body of a 6-month-old boy in a North Carolina cemetery hours after his mother was arrested and an Amber Alert was issued on his disappearance, the Matthews Police Department said on Saturday. The discovery of the infant’s body began Friday night with a police search for his mother, Tamara Brown, “who is possibly suffering from a mental health disability” and who was reported missing in Matthews, a town about 12 miles southeast of Charlotte. The mother was then found and arrested in connection to “a separate incident.” She faces charges for assaulting government officials and common law robbery. Simone Biles has teased a complicated vault that no female gymnast has ever performed in a competition before — and fans think she is perfecting it for the 2020 Summer Olympics. The 22-year-old gold medalist gave her fans a behind-the-scenes look at her training on Thursday by tweeting a video of herself performing a vault that many have deemed too risky to pull off: a Yurchenko double pike. In the five-second clip, Simone is like a flash of lightning as she runs and does a round-off onto the springboard, a back handspring onto the vault, and two flips in pike position (hips bent and knees straight) before landing on a mat in a foam pit. A Yurchenko — named after Natalia Yurchenko, a Russian gymnast who first performed the skill in the early 1980s — begins with a single flip. CLEO TV serves a Saturday slate sure to fill your spirit and stomach starting with the Season 2 return of JUST EATS WITH CHEF JJ on Saturday, February 22 beginning at 9 A.M. ET/8C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8ng0iAHHys&feature=youtu.be From social media beef to changing your love filter, this week's episode of ALL THINGS ADRIENNE WITH ADRIENNE HOUGHTON shares the best advice she's ever received in an all-new episode this Saturday, February 22 at 1 P.M. ET/12C Encore at 11 P.M. ET. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=246pBs7pqDY&feature=youtu.be All-new episodes of CLEO SPEAKS airing this Saturday, February 22 feature entrepreneur and culinary visionary Monique Rose at 9 A.M. ET/8c followed by Emmy-nominated actress Christina Cooper at 9:15 A.M ET/8:15C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q2N1fqoWFwA&feature=youtu.be TaMyya J releases a powerful faith-inspiring worship single "WORSHIP WHILE I WAIT” along with the exclusive live video. This single written and produced by Michael M. Smith is from her “Love For Your Name" project. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AdACLZZOHQo&feature=youtu.be Taraji P. Henson and her fiancé Kelvin Hayden enjoyed fun in the sun on their recent vacation to Mexico and they shared some sexy pics of the tip on Instagram. Henson and Hayden jetted off to Los Cabos for a prenuptial getaway, staying at the Nbu Hotel Los Cabos in a private ocean view suite. Erykah Badu’s incense, “Badu Pu*sy,” made its debut on her new digital store Badu World Market Thursday (Feb. 20). Fortunately and unfortunately, fans showed up in droves to buy the scandalously named incense, that sold out within hours. Badu creatively reacted to the news via Twitter with this note: “Fasses selling pu$$c in the south ???!” Tune-in to Facebook Watch on Wednesday, February 26 for a special “Red Table Talk” with Snoop Dogg as he joins the Red Table to address the controversy over his verbal rant to Gayle King, what led to his apology and what he’s learned since. “Red Table Talk“ has emerged as the go-to place for unpacking the most compelling social issues of today in real-time as Jada Pinkett Smith, her daughter Willow Smith, and Jada’s mother Adrienne aka “Gammy,” have created a safe space for people from all walks of life to have open, honest and vulnerable conversations. THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE WELCOME STORM REID, RUSSELL HORNSBY, SINGER SAMMIE AND CONTINUE BLACK HISTORY MONTH WITH ANOTHER "BRIDGING THE GAP" SIT DOWN. The Princess of Praise and Worship, Bri Babineaux drops “Build My Life.” https://youtu.be/GIGzo1sXZ5M NEW MUSIC "PEOPLE" BY JONATHAN MCREYNOLDS https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThmAObtoCog&feature=youtu.be TV One's award-winning documentary series UNSUNG begins its new season highlighting the journey of one of R&B's most dynamic quartets with supergroup Dru Hill on Sunday, February 23 at 10 p.m. ET/9C. Dru Hill will perform their classic hits on UNSUNG LIVE immediately following their UNSUNG episode at 11 p.m./10C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3OfqR9_LnY&feature=youtu.be Celebrating its milestone 35th Anniversary of the Stellar Gospel Music Awards, Central City Productions announces an awe-inspiring line-up of performers for the “Greatest Night in Gospel Music." Returning to the Las Vegas Orleans Arena Friday, March 27, 2020. Performers include Donnie McClurkin, James Fortune, J.J. Hairston & Youthful Praise, Travis Greene, Maranda Curtis, William Murphy, Zacardi Cortez, Pastor Mike Jr., Kierra Sheard, The Walls Group, and Doe, with more to be announced. The show will premiere on BET Networks (simulcast on BET HER) on April 5 at 8 p.m. ET with an encore at 10 p.m. ET, and air in broadcast syndication in more than 216 markets around the country from April 11 - May 17, 2020. Taking the reigns for the first time as co-hosts two of Gospel’s breakthrough artists, the ‘new guard,’ Koryn Hawthorne and Jonathan McReynolds. The Holy Land Experience last week filed notice with the city of Orlando and state officials announcing it would be eliminating 118 positions. That represents most of the jobs at the theme park in Orlando’s tourist corridor. Holy Land Experience officials said in a letter that they were shifting focus from entertainment and theatrical productions to the park’s Biblical museum. The decision will allow them to continue to receive tax breaks signed into law by former Governor Jeb Bush. The theme park was launched in 2001 as the ministry of a Messianic Jewish church. Trinity Broadcasting Network took ownership in 2007. IRS records show a sharp decline in revenue, from $42 million in 2010 to $8 million in 2017, the most recent year available. The layoffs would take place by mid-April. Employees will get a severance package based on their length of employment. Pop Smoke, a rising New York rapper, was fatally shot in a home in the Hollywood Hills early Wednesday, law enforcement sources confirmed. Officers responded after someone calling from the East Coast reported that several people, at least one of whom wore a black mask and was armed with a handgun, had entered their friend’s home in Los Angeles shortly before 5 a.m., said LAPD Capt. Steve Lurie. When officers arrived at the $2.5-million home they found the 20-year-old rapper, whose legal name is Bashar Barakah Jackson, with gunshot wounds. He was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Officers detained several people inside the house, but they were later released. Two to six suspects fled the scene and had not been found, Lurie said. The rapper’s death came days after his second mixtape, “Meet the Woo 2,” landed at No. 7 on the Billboard Top 200 list. His breakthrough mixtape, “Meet the Woo,” released last year, has 280 million streams globally. Award-winning filmmaker and actor Alex Kendrick attended the 28th annual Movieguide Awards where he revealed the plans for the next Kendrick Brothers film. “We are shooting a movie this summer,” Kendrick told The Christian Post in an interview last month at the popular award show that honors faith and family content. “We’re very excited about that and it’s a true story and it’s going to grab your heart. We love it!” he exclaimed. The popular Christian actor said he and his brother, Stephen, who’s also his producing partner, “love the subject matter and what’s going to happen” as a result of it. “We think it’s a very timely movie,” he assured. Kendrick said he expects the film to be released in 2021. The brothers are used to making original content such as their No. 1 box-office hit “War Room,” but their next film was actually brought to them by a friend. Pastor Mike, Jr. is a jewel in his hometown of Birmingham, Alabama, but now he is shining around the country as his rousing single “Big” hits #1 at Gospel radio this week. “Big,” the lead single from his debut album Live Free, also earned Pastor Mike, Jr. five Stellar Gospel Music Award nominations. Live Free hit #1 on Billboard’s Gospel Albums chart when it was released in September. “Big” is a powerful anthem that reassures listeners that God has something big planned for their life. With soaring harmonies punctuated by Pastor Mike’s Jr’s commanding vocals, the song draws you into a worship experience that forces you to erase any worry and doubt. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7BvJ7Tmr7E&feature=youtu.be For the last two decades, Benita Jones has teased with fame, popping up now and again with classics such as 2005’s “Thank You” and 2015’s “My Grace” with the Full Gospel Baptist Fellowship Mass Choir. However, “Good God” should finally deliver a big platform for the charismatic Atlanta-based worship leader. This high-energy live performance is infectiously singable and catchy. https://spaces.hightail.com/space/5nnMRAfT6N Top-selling Gospel artist, multiple award winner, 3x Grammy nominee, and President of the Gospel Heritage Foundation VaShawn Mitchell brings the International Worship & Arts Summit LEAP 2020 to Columbia’s Brookland Baptist Church & Convention Center February 26-29, 2020. Several popular artists will be making appearances throughout the week, including Donald Lawrence, Erica Campbell, Jekalyn Carr, Todd Dulaney, Bishop Noel Jones, and many more. Gospel Spotlight's Tim Johnson "Your Grace" One to keep your eyes on!!! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OsoJv-YMi3M The Atlanta Chapter of the GMWA Mass Choir drops the up-tempo, churchy tune titled “Never Forget” and features legendary singer, songwriter, and preacher, Bishop Richard “Mr. Clean” White. Drew Brees plans to return to the New Orleans Saints for his 20th NFL season.The 13-time Pro Bowl quarterback announced Tuesday on Instagram he will play again in the upcoming year. “My feelings about the 2020 season! I look forward to the grind and the journey, for the reward at the end will be worth it!!!” Brees said. “Love you #WhoDatNation. Let’s make another run at it!” Ja’Net Dubois, one of the stars of “Good Times,” was found dead on Tuesday, TMZ reports. Her family says she died in her sleep unexpectedly at her Glendale, California home. Dubois played Willona Woods, the Evans family’s neighbor on the classic 70s sitcom. She is most well known for her role on “Good Times,” but she also composed and sang the song “Movin’ On Up,” which was the theme for “The Jeffersons.” Pastor Mike, Jr. is a jewel in his hometown of Birmingham, Alabama, but now he is shining around the country as his rousing single “Big” hits #1 at Gospel radio this week. “Big,” the lead single from his debut album Live Free, also earned Pastor Mike, Jr. five Stellar Gospel Music Award nominations. Live Free hit #1 on Billboard’s Gospel Albums chart when it was released in September. “Big” is a powerful anthem that reassures listeners that God has something big planned for their life. With soaring harmonies punctuated by Pastor Mike’s Jr’s commanding vocals, the song draws you into a worship experience that forces you to erase any worry and doubt. Esther Scott, the veteran character actress who appeared in films and TV shows including Boyz N the Hood, Dreamgirls, Transformers, and Beverly Hills 90210, died Feb. 14 in Santa Monica, Calif., after suffering a heart attack. She was 66. Scott got her start in Hollywood as a voice actress on the 1985 animated series Star Wars: Ewoks, where she brought to life the character of Shodu Warrick. She went on to appear on such popular shows as Full House; Ellen; Sister, Sister; The Geena Davis Show; and Hart of Dixie.On the big screen, Scott’s credits covered a wide range including The Craft, Encino Man, Don Juan DeMarco, Austin Powers in Goldmember, The Pursuit of Happyness, Gangster Squad, and The Birth of a Nation. An Atlanta prosecutor is considering whether to launch a full-scale investigation into the 2006 death of music legend James Brown, after meeting on Wednesday with a woman who claims to have evidence Brown was murdered. Fulton County District Attorney Paul Howard Jr. will examine the evidence presented at the meeting to determine whether an investigation is warranted. A spokesperson for the DA’s office said it would be “inappropriate to discuss” next steps in the process at this time, and stressed that no investigation is currently underway, but simply a “review of evidence.” The woman, a circus singer named Jacque Hollander, turned over a plastic bin she said was filled with evidence, as well as a list of possible witnesses and printed text messages, to prosecutors. Hollander also alleges that Brown’s third wife, Adrienne, who died in 1996, was murdered. Brown died on Christmas Day in 2006 at age 73, with the cause of death attributed to heart failure and pneumonia. In 2019, however, CNN published an extensive investigative series in which Hollander and a dozen others who knew Brown — including his manager, his son Daryl, Brown’s widow Tomi Rae Hynie, and the doctor who signed Brown’s death certificate — raised suspicions about the musician’s death and called for an autopsy, a criminal investigation, or both. (No autopsy was performed at the time of Brown’s death.) The National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum (NAPRPPM) will host the 2020 A. Philip Randolph Gentle Warrior Awards Gala Celebration. The 25-year-old museum is located in the Pullman National Park site designated by President Barack Obama on February 19, 2015. It is the only African American site at the monument. The Pullman Porter Museum is hosting the GALA fundraiser to raise operating funds to continue to keep the only Black labor union museum, the only one of its kind, alive. Celebrating twenty-five years as the premier guardian of the history of blacks in America's labor union movement and keeper of A. Philip Randolph's legacy. The year 2020 marks a milestone in the life of the National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum. The museum will celebrate three important milestones this year. "Our 25th anniversary, the announcement of the addition of the Reverend Jesse Jackson Sr. Civil Rights Wing and the 83rd anniversary of the signing of the first collective bargaining agreement between an African American labor union (the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters) and a major U. S. Corporation, the Pullman Company and is worth honoring and remembering," said Dr. Lyn Hughes, Museum founder. At just 30-years-old, inventor, telecom company founder, software engineer and philanthropist Freddie Figgers, CEO of Figgers Communications, runs the only African American owned telecommunications company in the United States and has distinguished himself as a modern day historical figure worthy of recognition. The self-taught software engineer and cloud computing whiz is the youngest person in America to own and operate a U.S. based wireless telecommunications company. Now worth more than $62 million, Figgers Communications includes Figgers Wireless, an FCC-regulated telecom and electronics company offering cellular, mobile broadband, home phone, international calling solutions, and smart TVs; Figgers holds nine U.S. patents and has received national attention for his inventions, which include the first smart phone to feature an automatic safety mechanism disabling data and text while driving over 10 mph. Other groundbreaking inventions include his first patent, a GPS patient monitoring device embedded in his father's shoe (who suffered from dementia) and a smart blood glucose monitor that communicates critical data directly to family and doctors in real time, helping patients better manage their health. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhlQ5LICLak&feature=youtu.be A man is suing Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles after his wife died during childbirth. Charles Johnson, the son of Judge Hatchett, says doctors told them now 3-year-old Langston’s birth would be a routine cesarean section. “I just held her by her hand and said, ‘please look, my wife isn’t doing well.’ This woman looked me directly in my eye and said, ‘Sir, your wife is not a priority right now.’ It wasn’t until 12.30 a.m. the next morning that they finally took the decision to take Kira back to surgery,” Johnson said. As critical minutes turned into hours, Johnson says he was continually ignored by staff as Kira’s health continued to suffer. He is suing the hospital for the loss of his wife, and with the case pending, the hospital said in a statement that they could not respond directly because of privacy laws but that “Cedars-Sinai thoroughly investigates any situation where there are concerns about a patient’s medical care.” Kira was a successful entrepreneur who spoke five languages. Gayle King accepted Snoop Dogg’s apology over an Instagram video the rapper posted lashing out at her for asking WNBA star Lisa Leslie about Kobe Bryant’s sexual assault case. “I accept the apology and understand the raw emotions caused by this tragic loss,” King said in a statement to NBC News, adding that it was never her intention to cause pain as people grieve Bryant’s Jan. 26 death in a helicopter crash. https://youtu.be/I5lpkMAMjqw Jennifer Hudson delivered an emotional tribute to late Lakers legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna “Gigi” Bryant, three weeks after they were killed in a helicopter accident. Taking center court at Sunday’s NBA All-Star Game, the Oscar-winning singer belted out a stunning rendition of Donny Hathaway’s classic “For All We Know (We May Meet Again)” in front of a picture montage of Bryant and Gianna. https://youtu.be/9UiHersOp_g M*A*S*H star Kellye Nakahara passed away at the age of 72 following a short cancer battle. The veteran actress was surrounded by family when she died ‘peacefully’ at her home in Pasadena on Sunday, as reported by TMZ. Nakahara portrayed the role of Lieutenant Nurse Kellye on the hit CBS comedy, starring in a total of 165 episodes. Bible teacher and author Priscilla Shirer announced that the surgery she recently underwent to remove a node from her left lung was “curative” and praised the Lord for His faithfulness. “I am recovering well from the surgery,” Shirer announced in an Instagram post over the weekend. “My breathing is still pretty labored so I am working on my lung capacity and getting a little breath back here. But doing really good and recovering well.” “The surgery was curative, praise the Lord, so I don’t have anything else to do in that regard other than recover.” New Single "Change My Heart" by Bill Moss, Jr. From The Songbook of Praise & Worship with Third New Hope. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jsc7RNS6O0&feature=youtu.be Former president Barack Obama reflected on the deaths of Kobe Bryant and daughter Gianna during a speech at the NBA All-Star Weekend Newsmaker Brunch in Chicago Saturday. “That loss is something that I know many are still grappling with,” Obama told attendees, “particularly Kobe because he was with his daughter and those families, and those children.” Kobe and Gianna were killed when the helicopter they were riding in slammed into a hillside in Calabasas, California on the morning Jan. 26. The crash also claimed the lives of pilot Ara Zobayan; Orange Coast College head baseball coach John Altobelli; his wife Keri Altobelli; their 14-year-old daughter Alyssa Altobelli; Christina Mauser, a basketball coach at Harbor Day School in Newport Beach; 13-year-old Payton Chester, a basketball teammate of Gianna’s; and her mother, Sarah Chester, per Deadline. The helicopter was transporting the group to Bryant’s Mamba Sports Academy in Thousand Oaks for a girls’ basketball game. Bryant and Mauser coached Gianna’s team. Even though OneUnitedBank has come under fire for daring to portray Harriet Tubman using the Wakanda salute on its credit/debit card design, the bank says the hotness is coming from customers who are clamoring for it! OneUnited Bank, which is credited s the largest black-owned bank in the US, is seeing a whole lot more business since they debuted the Harriet Tubman card. The bank is said to be seeing 10x their normal volume in terms of bank account sign-ups, account holders requesting to switch to the new debit card design and banking inquiries. Even though it’s been less than a week since the card became available, OneUnited knows they’ve got a huge winner. That’s because they saw similar numbers back in 2016 after partnering with Killer Mike’s #BankBlack movement. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Chaka Khan’s rendition of the national anthem prior to the NBA All-Star Game is being roasted by viewers online. The legendary singer is being brutally mocked on social media, as many claim she failed to hit the right notes. Twitter is flooded with memes expressing a myriad of reactions to her performance. One user wrote: “More like Chaka Khan’t.” https://youtu.be/_SLO8wxtK-I Ne-Yo has confirmed that he and wife Crystal Renay are calling it quits, and the news comes a week after fans first speculated about their break-up. “It’s slowly but surely becoming public knowledge that myself and my wife have decided to go ahead and get a divorce,” the singer said on the “Private Talk With Alexis Texas” podcast. “It’s not a sad thing, it’s more of us realizing that — long story short, I’m never gonna talk bad about her. I’m not that person. There’s nothing bad to say about her. She’s a fantastic woman. She’s the mother of my children and she’s always gonna be that and I will always respect her.” Dwyane Wade has opened up about the time he and Gabrielle Union had to put their relationship on pause because he got another woman pregnant. The couple began dating in 2008 and married in 2014. But they split in 2013, which is when he fathered son Xavier. Wade said the ‘hardest thing I’ve ever had to do’ was tell Union that he got another woman pregnant while they were separated. Wade talks about this and dishes further about his personal life in the upcoming ESPN documentary, “D. Wade: Life Unexpected,” which airs this weekend (Feb. 23). Nikita Pearl Waligwa, an actor who appeared in Disney’s biographical drama “Queen of Katwe,” has died, according to BBC and the Ugandan newspaper Daily Monitor. She was 15. Waligwa had been diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2016 and seemed to recover a year later. However, in 2019, another tumor was found. “Queen of Katwe” director Mira Nair helped organize efforts to fund Waligwa’s treatment during filming, according to BBC. The young actor played a girl named Gloria in “Queen of Katwe.” She was a close friend of main character Phiona Mutesi (Madina Nalwanga), and taught her how to play chess. The film told the real-life story of Mutesi who is one of Uganda’s most successful chess players. She won three Ugandan Women’s Junior Championships and has represented the country at four international chess olympiads. The National Basketball Association All-Star Game MVP Award has been permanently named for the late Kobe Bryant, league Commissioner Adam Silver said on Saturday. Bryant, an 18-time All-Star who won a record-tying four All-Star Game MVP awards, his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven others were killed in a helicopter crash near Los Angeles on Jan. 26. He was 41. The Kobe Bryant MVP Award will be presented on Sunday to the most valuable player at the end of the 2020 NBA All-Star Game. Grammy® Award and NAACP Image® Award Winners David and Tamela Mann are back on screen. In addition to starring in the BET Networks and Tyler Perry Studios new sitcom set to premiere on BET in summer 2020, “Tyler Perry’s Assisted Living,” where they reprise their roles as “Mr. Brown” and “Cora,” David and Tamela are debuting their first-ever joint music video, “Ups & Downs,” on YouTube today. The romantic music video for the Urban AC track from their album Us Against The World is produced by the Manns’ daughters, Laporcia Mann-Morrison and Tia Mann, and directed by Mann-Morrison. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PPbsko98jI The arrest and subsequent resignation of the president of a major Historically Black College and University (HBCU) has rallied Jackson State University’s defenders, but also has sparked criticism of the school. William Bynum, 57, was arrested over the weekend along with several other people, according to the Clinton, Mississippi, Police Department. Bynum is charged with procuring services of a prostitute, false statement of identity and simple possession of marijuana. He resigned Monday. Bynum arrived at Jackson State after serving four years as vice president for enrollment management and student services at Morehouse College in Atlanta. Thomas Hudson has been named acting Jackson State president. His appointment went into effect Monday, the same day as Bynum’s resignation. Kanye West is coming home again. Yeezy announced Wednesday (Feb. 12) that he will be holding Sunday Service at the Credit 1 Arena in Chicago this weekend. “Sunday Service Experience Credit Union 1 Arena, Chicago Sunday February 16th 2pm,” he tweeted. The Chi is the place to be this weekend, as the NBA All-Star Game comes to town. Yeezy previously brought Sunday Service to Miami at the top of February with the Super Bowl taking place just north of South Beach at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. Lecrae Devaughn Moore is a Grammy award-winning hip-hop artist, best-selling author, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and co-owner and president of Reach Records. His 2014 album, Anomaly, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, the first album to top both the Billboard 200 and the Gospel Charts simultaneously. He has sold more than 3 million copies and been nominated for five Grammy Awards, including a win for Best Gospel Album. He also received 15 Dove Awards, one Billboard Music Award, and a Soul Train Music Award, and a BET Hip-Hop Nomination. Lacrae says,"With conversation rising about the number of teens committing suicide and the heightened conversations around mental health awareness and suicide prevention, this is the perfect time for my ninth album, Restoration. I’m also writing another book, I Am Restored, due out later this year. A follow-up to my first book, Unashamed, I Am Restored'." BLACK HISTORY MONTH CONTINUES TO THRIVE ON SISTER CIRCLE WITH THEIR "BRIDGING THE GAP" SERIES, RICHARD SMALLWOOD AND MORE SPECIAL GUESTS! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GC4C-Wuj2g It's here! The wait is over as one of Christian music’s most successful and celebrated groups, Avalon, release Called, their first album in ten years, today, Friday, February 14, 2020. The project – the inaugural full release on Red Street Records – is produced by Don Koch and Jay DeMarcus. The exquisite harmonies of Avalon – Greg & Janna Long, Jody McBrayer, and Dani Rocca – soar over lyrics full of faith and encouragement, complemented by exemplary musicianship and skilled production.Longtime Avalon aficionados and new fans alike are sure to enjoy and be empowered by the songs featured in this collection including the title track, "Called," the upbeat first single, "Keeper of my Heart," "If Not For Jesus," "Sacred Ground," "Closer," and "Glitter and Glory," just to name a few. CLEO SPEAKS returns with a Season 2 double feature premiere event chronicling the stories of two dynamic and influential women on Saturday, February 15 beginning at 9 A.M. ET/8C. Emmy Award-winning actress Vanessa Baden Kelly and famed Poet and Entrepreneur Ernestine Johnson Morrison take a reflective look at their inspirational journey from childhood to womanhood. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LcQCQuKRNtU Meghan Markle surprised British Vogue’s Edward Enninful with an impromptu celebration to mark their collaboration on the September edition in an unseen video. The Duchess of Sussex, 38, handed the fashion designer a sparkly party hat and horns as a thank you for agreeing to let her be the first ever guest editor of the magazine. In the two-and-a-half minute clip shared to the Sussex Royal Instagram page this evening, the duo call up the women Meghan selected to be on her front cover. Enninful also praises the duchess for her ‘editor’s eye’, claiming: ‘I’ve never seen anything like it. You were so thorough from beginning to end.’ On Jan. 26, Ava DuVernay introduced a tribute to the late Nipsey Hussle at the 2020 Grammy Awards that included performances by Meek Mill, DJ Khaled and John Legend — but the Emmy-winning director has much more planned. Sources say DuVernay is working on a Hussle documentary for which Netflix has won the rights. The late Grammy-winning rapper, whose real name was Ermias Joseph Asghedom, was fatally shot in March 2019 in Los Angeles at the age of 33. In addition to his critically acclaimed music, which included the Interscope album Victory Lap, Hussle had become a community activist in his native South Los Angeles and, at the time of his death, had shifted his focus to preventing gang violence. “D–n, you know we only have 30 minutes for this panel, right?” Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson joked as he strutted out onto the Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall stage on Wednesday (Feb. 5), following moderator Van Jones’ lengthy introduction of the guest of honor, 50 himself. The crowd, who had just experienced the advance screening of his upcoming legal drama television series For Life, erupted with laughter. For Life is an American legal television series created by Hank Steinberg and executive produced by the Queens rapper. The series is based on the true story of Isaac Wright Jr., who was imprisoned for a crime that he did not commit, then studied to become a lawyer while incarcerated and fought to overturn his life sentence. The new series debuted Feb. 11 on ABC. 50 Cent may have said goodbye to Power, now he’s just getting started with an important new show. The rapper is the executive producer of For Life, a new legal drama created by Hank Steinberg that premieres Tuesday on ABC. The show stars Nicholas Pinnock as Aaron Wallace, a prisoner who becomes a lawyer litigating cases for other inmates while fighting to overturn his own life sentence for a crime he didn’t commit. The fictionalized series is inspired by the true story of Isaac Wright Jr., a former New Jersey inmate who got his wrongful conviction overturned and became a licensed attorney. https://youtu.be/5omBCI8rGig Oscar-winning actress and comedienne Mo’Nique made headlines last year for suing Netflix, citing gender and racial discrimination. She felt she was offered a low-ball offer for a Netflix special compared to comics such as Jerry Seinfeld, Amy Schumer and Dave Chappelle. Instead, she found a new home for her latest comedy special on Showtime which debuted Friday, February 7 and brought along a few comedic pals, too. Shot at the Variety Playhouse in Little Five Points, it’s simply called “Mo’Nique & Friends: Live from Atlanta.” Avoiding any specifics about their team’s sign-stealing during its 2017 World Series championship season, Houston Astros players Alex Bregman and José Altuve apologized Thursday for the scheme that was investigated and punished by Major League Baseball. Astros owner Jim Crane and new manager Dusty Baker — who replaced the fired AJ Hinch — also spoke at a news conference at the team’s spring training facility. TV One's award-winning documentary series UNSUNG returns for a brand new season spotlighting the popular 90s R&B group Dru Hill on Sunday, February 23 at 10 P.M. ET/9C. The season continues with memorable stories of MC Roxanne Shante, Christopher Williams; Skyy; Shannon, Billy Paul; vocal powerhouse Betty Wright, best known for the 70s hit single "Clean Up Woman;" multi-Grammy Award-winning musician Al Jarreau; and Atlanta hip hop quartet Goodie Mob. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=do-eEEYtNQ8&feature=youtu.be Dwyane Wade has discussed his child’s gender journey after his son Zion, 12, made the decision to identify as female and now goes by the name Zaya. The basketball pro, 38, spoke candidly in an interview with Ellen DeGeneres, which is set to air Tuesday, in which he further discussed parenting Zaya as well as revealing he sought help in the cast of Pose for help with addressing the situation.Dwyane, who shares Zaya with his ex-wife Siohvaughn Funches, detailed how he and his current wife Gabrielle Union had to educate themselves about the LGBTQ community and said they are ‘proud parents and allies’ of the child. https://videos.dailymail.co.uk/video/mol/2020/02/11/7884564603759117594/640x360_MP4_7884564603759117594.mp4 The NFL reinstated Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett from the indefinite suspension he served at the end of the last season for his role in an ugly brawl with the Pittsburgh Steelers, during which Garrett removed the helmet of quarterback Mason Rudolph and used it to strike Rudolph in the head. Wednesday’s reinstatement announcement came two days after Garrett met in New York with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and other league representatives. The league then reviewed whether Garrett complied fully with the terms of his reinstatement, including the requirement that he undergo counseling. Mel Tucker has agreed to lead Michigan State’s football program, according to two people familiar with the decision. The people spoke Wednesday morning to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the hiring had not been announced. One person said the school’s governing board scheduled a meeting later in the day to approve the hire. Colorado athletic director Rick George said Tucker resigned from his position at the school before Michigan State announced it was hiring him. Kobe Bean Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna have been laid to rest in a private family service two weeks after their deaths in a helicopter crash. The funeral service was held quietly on Friday at Pacific View Memorial Park in Corona del Mar, California with no photographers present. Information about the ceremony was revealed in death certificates issued by the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health, which listed burial as the type of deposition for both Bryant and Gianna. The certificates listed the causes of death as blunt trauma and indicated that they died in a ‘rapid’ manner in the January 26 crash in the hills of Calabasas. Nashville Life drops "Sing A Song." https://www.dropbox.com/sh/z0domj81a0077k2/AAD8Fj-sg09m8mP6L9aRqtKHa?dl=0&preview=NASHVILLE+LIFE+%22Sing+A+Song%22+(No+Rap).mp3 Donald Lawrence drops new single from "Goshen," "Rewritten" featuring Lejuene Thompson https://www.dropbox.com/sh/0719hkb9xaynq1r/AADBjlGKYZ7cLbhitdX-KYsha?dl=0 Memphis-based Church of God in Christ is named in a lawsuit which details decades-old allegations of sex crimes. The suit also names two New York churches, and an assistant pastor. Warren Curtis alleges he was sexually abused in a New York church when he was a child. The suit says the now 57-year-old man was an organist at a young age and joined the church. It alleges the preacher would take Curtis to and from practice – and over time, began “fondling” him.The fondling would become rape that continued from 1974 through 1978, according to the lawsuit. Curtis allegedly reported the abuse and the clergy’s response was that they would help Curtis by praying to “remove the demons from within him.” The lawsuit claims negligent supervision, assault and battery, and conspiracy to commit fraud, saying those named in the lawsuit engaged in a coordinated effort to conceal the allegations of sexual assault and abuse. The victim also claimed he is suffering from permanent physical and emotional injuries including ongoing humiliation, irritability, personality changes, a loss of faith, and a loss of earnings. At a time when states are debating the removal of Confederate monuments, Maryland unveiled bronze statues of famed abolitionists Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass during a ceremony Monday night in the Maryland State House. The life-sized statues were dedicated during a special joint session of the Maryland General Assembly in the Old House Chamber, the room where slavery was abolished in the state in 1864. The statues, dedicated during Black History Month, were made to show Tubman and Douglass as they would have appeared in age and dress in 1864. Several celebrities have expressed disappointment in CBS correspondent Gayle King, who recently questioned WNBA star Lisa Leslie about late basketball player — and Leslie’s close friend — Kobe Bryant and his 2003 sexual assault charge.Rapper Snoop Dogg has been the most vocal against King, and has now been joined by incarcerated comedian Bill Cosby, who tweeted from behind bars that he believes black women are being used to target successful black men. “It’s so sad and disappointing that successful Black Women are being used to tarnish the image and legacy of successful Black Men, even in death,” Cosby, 82, wrote. “Are these people that are in need of fame, ratings and/or money? On behalf of myself, Camille and my family, thank you, thank you and thank you. My heartfelt prayers are with Kobe and his family, as well as with Michael Jackson and his family. May their legacies live on forever.” As Richmond continues to grow so does it’s tourism, which is why a new tourism campaign hopes to highlight the region’s Black culture in art, entertainment, food and history. BLK RVA is the latest campaign created by Richmond Region Tourism and is a collaborative effort with Black community leaders to increase tourism and showcase businesses in the community that people see every day but know little about. Throughout history, Richmond has played a major role in African American history with it being the center for domestic slaves, home to the Harlem of the South and the gateway to new modern-day Black culture. Dwayne Johnson’s 18-year-old daughter Simone Johnson is on her way to making wrestling history by starting her training with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). Johnson, the daughter of Johnson and his first wife and current business partner Dany Garcia, started training at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida. While she still has a long way to go before becoming a full-fledged WWE Superstar, she will become the WWE’s first fourth-generation Superstar. Johnson’s great grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia and grandfather, Rocky Johnson, are both WWE Hall of Famers and her father Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson is still one of the most iconic modern-day wrestlers. Miss Janet Jackson kicks off her Black Diamond World Tour this summer to arenas across North America. The outing will feature an all-new production featuring new music from her highly anticipated, forthcoming album “Black Diamond,” set for release this year. Performing songs from her 12 multi-platinum albums including a special performance of Rhythm Nation 1814, which recently marked its 30th Anniversary. Produced by Live Nation, the tour kicks off June 24th in Miami and will visit major cities across the U.S. and Canada including Atlanta, Philadelphia, Toronto, Dallas, and many more. It’s now two weeks since Kobe and Gianna Bryant‘s violent death due to a helicopter crash and Vanessa Bryant is now opening up about her tragic loss and it’s very emotional. “My brain refuses to accept that both Kobe and Gigi are gone,” wrote Vanessa on her Instagram page. “I can’t process both at the same time,” she also said. “It’s like I’m trying to process Kobe being gone but my body refuses to accept my Gigi will never come back to me.” “It feels wrong,” Vanessa added. “Why should I be able to wake up another day when my baby girl isn’t being able to have that opportunity?! I’m so mad. She had so much life to live.” Tamayya J releases "Love For Your Name" the 4th single from the album "Worship While You Wait." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AdACLZZOHQo&feature=youtu.be Two-time GRAMMY® Award winner Jacky Clark-Chisholm of the legendary Clark Sisters releases new digital single “Feel Good” featuring GRAMMY® and Golden Globe winning, Oscar nominated singer-songwriter, actress, philanthropist and honorary Queen of Hip-Hop Soul Mary J. Blige to digital and streaming outlets now. The 92nd Academy Awards took place Sunday night in Hollywood, California, and featured a set of historic moments along with powerful performances from the stars of the faith-filled films, “Breakthrough” and “Harriet.” “This is Us” actress Chrissy Metz made her Oscars debut by performing her song, “I’m Standing With You,” which was nominated for best original song from the 2019 Christian film “Breakthrough.” https://youtu.be/xE2s1pQcADM The country’s sole African American-led news network has arrived. Black News Channel debuted this week, the second week of Black History Month, to fill what its founders called a void in representation in national news. The network began broadcasting in select markets Monday. The 24-7 cable channel features black anchors “dedicated to the unique perspective of African American communities,” according to a statement from its co-founders J.C. Watts and Bob Brillante, and will debut in “majority African American markets” first, according to its website, including Atlanta and Los Angeles. It’s available to select Spectrum and Xfinity X-1 customers and will premiere on Sling and Roku at a later, unspecified date. Starbucks has started a new advertising campaign, #whatsyourname, in the United Kingdom in partnership with Mermaids, a nonprofit group that supports young trans-identifying people and their families, the coffee chain has announced. Starbucks’ #whatsyourname campaign “celebrates” the company’s signature practice of taking a customer’s name, writing it on a cup and calling it out, by extending it to “transgender and gender diverse people,” the American coffee chain says in a statement. Netflix’s Dear White People is one of pop culture’s most provocative shows. Based on a breakout 2014 indie movie, the Netflix series follows a group of young, black college students navigating the world of activism, “wokeness,” appropriation, political correctness and social issues on a mostly white campus. The premise might sound heavy, but the show is really, really funny. At the center of the story is Samantha White, a passionate racial justice advocate, who hosts a campus radio show that seeks to wake her fellow classmates up to the issues dividing the student body. “What I hear from [college students] is they feel comforted watching Sam going through the same things they’re doing,” says Logan Browning, who plays Samantha on the show. “Because there aren’t a lot of shows where you’re seeing a character go through the ups and downs of trying to be a part of a movement that’s bigger than them.” For Browning, her work on the show isn’t just rooted in her passion for racial equality and justice; it’s an important part of her faith. Raised in a Baptist church, Browning says that her own approach to activism mirrors Samantha’s passion but is informed by her Christian roots. Subtitle this: “Parasite” is the first non-English language film to win best picture in the 92-year history of the Academy Awards. Bong Joon Ho’s masterfully devious class satire took Hollywood’s top prize at the Oscars on Sunday night, along with awards for best director, best international film and best screenplay. In a year dominated by period epics — “1917,” “Once Upon a Time … In Hollywood,” “The Irishman” — the film academy instead went overseas, to South Korea, to reward a contemporary and unsettling portrait of social inequality in “Parasite.” Meghan Markle and Prince Harry dined with Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez in Miami on Thursday night, according to The New York Post. The dinner date reportedly occurred just hours after the formal royals delivered their keynote speech at the JP Morgan ‘billionaire’s summit’ in the same city. Harry, 35, and Meghan, 38, are said to have instantly ‘bonded’ with J-Lo, 50, and A.Rod, 44, during the dinner date, which took place at Habitat – a ritzy restaurant located inside the 1 Hotel South Beach. Supermodel Ashley Graham and husband Justin Ervin explained the meaning behind their newborn son’s name, Isaac Menelik Giovanni Ervin. On Graham’s “Pretty Big Deal” podcast on Tuesday, Ervin explained that he came up with the name Isaac back when he was in middle school. “I brainstormed my own [baby names] for my future son and I knew it was going to be Isaac just even from then till now,” he said of the Biblical moniker. https://youtu.be/P6jWJTIEXTw Snoop Dogg isn’t looking for a fight with Gayle King. The rapper, 48, took to Instagram Saturday to make that clear after calling out the CBS correspondent for mentioning late basketball star Kobe Bryant’s 2003 rape case. “I’m a non-violent person,” Snoop says in the video. “When I said what I said, I spoke for the people who felt like Gayle was very disrespectful towards Kobe Bryant and his family.” “Now with that being said,“ he continued, “what I look like wanting some harm to come to a 70-year-old woman? I was raised way better than that. I don’t want no harm to come to her and I didn’t threaten her, all I did was said, ‘check it out, you outta pocket for what you doing and we watching you. Have a little more respect for Vanessa, her babies and Kobe Bryant’s legacy.’”He went on to stress that he’s “non-violent” while insisting he can only “speak from the heart.” “Some of you who don’t have a heart wouldn’t understand that,” he quipped, ending the video. The Rev. William Barber II brought his message about supporting the needy to the Capitol, urging an “emergency convening” hosted by the Congressional Black Caucus to mobilize poor voters in the upcoming election. “There’s no way we can inspire people to move with the normal politics that doesn’t fully address poverty,” said Barber, co-chair of the Poor People’s Campaign and the keynoter on Tuesday (Feb. 4) at the caucus’s National Black Leadership Summit.“When you can work a full-time job at minimum wage and still not be able to afford a two-bedroom apartment anywhere in this country, that’s poor. And if we can’t see that and if we don’t acknowledge that poverty then we are refusing to call upon these witnesses among us.” Hundreds of politicians, faith leaders, union representatives and others gathered in the Congressional Auditorium of the Capitol Visitor Center to discuss ways of ensuring more people of color are included in the upcoming once-a-decade census and the national elections this year. Kobe Bryant’s widow, Vanessa, has posted a sweet video of her seven-month-old baby girl just two weeks after a helicopter crash killed her husband along with her 13-year-old daughter Gianna.The 37-year-old took to Instagram on Saturday morning to share her and Kobe’s youngest daughter, attempting to stand on her own for the first time. https://videos.dailymail.co.uk/video/mol/2020/02/08/3644611861798893597/1024x576_MP4_3644611861798893597.mp4?_=1 Award-winning Christian artist Tauren Wells says his new music is uniquely a representation of who God made him to be and maintains that, unlike secular music, his songs offer people the hope of Jesus while talking about the difficulties of life. Wells released his latest album, Citizen Of Heaven, last week, while he’s out on tour with TobyMac for the Hits Deep Tour. Along with the release of his new music, the multitalented musician has a new role as a preacher at Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, under pastor Joel Osteen. He also has the honor of being a supporting act for TobyMac on the road. Manhattan’s district attorney office is reviewing the details surrounding the 1965 shooting death of civil rights icon Malcolm X in Washington Heights, including looking over the convictions made for his alleged murderers. The news of the review from Cy Vance’s office comes as the Netflix documentary ‘Who Killed Malcolm X?’ airs on the streaming platform starting on Friday. Peter Casolaro is one of the assistant DAs assigned to the case. Casolaro famously worked on the investigation that led to the exoneration of the Central Park Five, DA spokesman Danny Frost explained to the New York Daily News. Frost also said that integrity bureau deputy chief Charles King would also be looking into the case. The Innocence Project has been in talks with Vance over the case as well. Washington is the latest NFL team to hire a female assistant coach. Jennifer King will join Ron Rivera’s staff as a full-time assistant. It is unclear at this point what position she will be coaching, but she has a familiarity with Rivera, having previously worked for him as a coaching intern in Carolina. King will be the first African-American woman to have a full-time coaching job in the NFL. Bob Knight’s short stroll from the practice gym to Assembly Hall ended a 20-year journey home. When the former Indiana Hoosiers coach walked through the tunnel Saturday and onto his old court for the first time since his firing in September 2000, the crowd went wild — chanting his name, roaring with approval, thanking him for all the success and banners he brought to Bloomington. The sellout crowd and dozens of former players lauded Knight after watching a video detailing Knight’s contributions. He walked in with his son, Pat. He hugged Isiah Thomas. He was assisted into the arena by Quinn Buckner. And the 79-year-old Knight reveled in the moment, pumping his fist, pretending to direct Scott May in a practice drill and even leading fans in a chorus of “de-fense, de-fense.” The debut of the new XFL had a punt blocked for a touchdown, a juiced-up crowd roaring for big plays and a player swearing during an in-game television interview. College national championship-winning former Ohio State quarterback Cardale Jones was the biggest star on the field and took the microphone to address fans before the start of a brand-new football league. “This is for the love of football,” Jones said. “Enjoy.” Jones’ D.C. Defenders beat the Seattle Dragons 31-19 Saturday afternoon in the opener of the new XFL that provided plenty of entertainment in person and on TV. The first weekend is a chance for football fans to catch a glimpse of some of the few players they might recognize. There’s former Oklahoma quarterback Landry Jones with Dallas, former NFL QB Josh Johnson with San Diego and ex-Navy standout Keenan Reynolds playing for Seattle. Before the Super Bowl LIV kickoff last Sunday, Yolanda Adams and the Children’s Chorus of Miami took the stage to sing the annual rendition of America the Beautiful at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Adams stood atop a giant white football, in a black and white floral pantsuit, with the Children’s Chorus behind her on the field in all white, harmonizing with the gospel legend. Cameras caught the San Francisco 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs players watching the traditional performance. https://twitter.com/i/status/1224112707554676737 Lionsgate has greenlit a movie about NFL legend Kurt Warner from Kingdom Story Company, producers of the box office hit I Can Only Imagine. American Underdog: The Kurt Warner Story will be directed by brothers Andrew Erwin and Jon Erwin and produced by partner Kevin Downes. Kingdom Story has a first-look deal to develop, produce and helm faith-based film and TV projects for Lionsgate. Warner and his wife Brenda will co-produce the drama, which recalls his unlikely journey from stocking shelves at a supermarket in Iowa to becoming a two-time NFL MVP, a Super Bowl MVP and a Hall of Fame quarterback. Kingdom Story acquired Warner’s life rights, and the screenplay is based on interviews with Warner and his memoir, All Things Possible: My Story of Faith, Football and the First Miracle Season. Through laughs, tears and speeches that turned into sermons and affirmations, the overarching theme of this year’s star-studded Essence luncheon was that in an unforgiving industry that often overlooks, black women need no validation from Hollywood — or elsewhere — to appreciate their self-worth. “No one in this room derived from luck. We are a powerful force field that derived from greatness,” said “Captain Marvel” actress Lashana Lynch at Thursday afternoon’s Essence Black Women in Hollywood event. “We work hard on our craft and our self love, and have to remind ourselves daily that we deserve a seat at the table.” “Queen & Slim” director Melina Matsoukas, another honoree, echoed Lynch’s sentiments when she received her award from “Insecure” actress and creator Issa Rae, who tapped Matsoukas to direct the hit HBO comedy series. After losing distribution only two weeks before its Sundance premiere, the Russell Simmons accuser documentary On the Record has found a new home. In its first-ever festival acquisition, HBO Max has picked up the film from Oscar-nominated directors Kirby Dick and Amy Ziering. On the Record tells the stories of Simmons’ accusers, including former Def Jam executive Drew Dixon, as they decide to go public with their claims of sexual harassment and assault at the hands of the Def Jam music mogul. The stories of Sil Lai Abrams, Sheri Hines, Jenny Lumet and Alexia Norton Jones also appear in the doc. A plaque marking the site of slave auctions was reported missing and vandalism was found nearby in a Virginia city where a deadly white nationalist rally was held in 2017. An employee with WVIR-TV told police Thursday that one of the two markers in Charlottesville’s Court Square had been removed, the television station reported, and the city confirmed the disappearance in a news release from city spokesman Brian Wheeler. The marker was built into a sidewalk and had recently been criticized for being illegible, The Daily Progress reported. A light pole nearby was marked with a “1619,” which was written with what appears to be dirt from beneath the location of the marker, the news release said. The number signifies the first year Africans were brought to Virginia as slaves. Following what is believed to have been a long period of competitive negotiations, the studio has won worldwide distribution rights to the film of the original staged performance of the Tony-winning musical. The pic is set to be released in North America on Oct. 15, 2021. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkAoJKGsIVE After an amazing run with the #1 smash, “Deliver Me,” Donald Lawrence and the Tri-City Singers return with the new single, “Rewritten”. The song serves at the third single from their latest LP, Goshen. The encouraging ballad is a melodic reminder that God specializes in redemption, despite one’s transgressions. The song features Jason Nelson and Lejeune Thompson on lead vocals. https://pec.smcdp-aws.net/welcome?key=60A2A94F-070A-3FC1-751A-6FBEE3120C84 Gospel Spotlight on New Music "PATIENTLY PRAISING" by FRED JERKINS feat. LOWELL PYE. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=po_44oy_TSs&feature=youtu.be CELEBRATE A WEEK OF LOVE WITH THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE AS THEY WELCOME SPECIAL GUEST SINGERS Q PARKER, MICHEL'LE, TV PERSONALITY TOYA WRIGHT AND COUPLE MONTELL & KRISTEN JORDAN PLUS MORE! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vn5H5owVJy8 Snoop Dogg hit up the Rickey Smiley radio show Friday morning and explained why he was compelled to put Gayle King on blast over her asking about the Kobe Bryant rape case in an interview with WNBA star Lisa Leslie. https://youtu.be/5P5sR5udoXM An emotional and tearful Oprah Winfrey was seen on NBC’s “Today” Friday after she was asked about the recent controversy involving her friend/sister Gaye King. As you know, King is catching pure hell on several fronts after asking former WNBA player Lisa Leslie about Kobe Bryant’s rape allegation during an interview. “We did a show yesterday on best friends and how meaningful they are to us and I think the last 24 hours for your best friend has been pretty difficult after that interview with Lisa Leslie about Kobe and I just wondered how she is doing,” Hoda Kotb asked Winfrey. After an amazing run with the #1 smash, “Deliver Me,” Donald Lawrence and the Tri-City Singers return with the new single, “Rewritten”. The song serves at the third single from their latest LP, Goshen. The encouraging ballad is a melodic reminder that God specializes in redemption, despite one’s transgressions. The song features Jason Nelson and Lejeune Thompson on lead vocals. https://pec.smcdp-aws.net/welcome?key=60A2A94F-070A-3FC1-751A-6FBEE3120C84 It has been reported that the health of Serena and Venus Williams’ father, Richard Williams is suffering from irreparable “brain damage” and “dementia.” Court papers revealed tennis ace and her sister Venus could become embroiled in a court battle with their stepmother. The Williams sisters’ 77-year-old father is “totally incapacitated to conduct any business,” the documents, which include testimony from his own doctor. The former tennis coach has barely been seen in public over the last few years, as he’s been fighting a messy divorce battle with Lakeisha Williams, 40. Issues with his much younger wife are what some believe led to Williams suffering two strokes which ultimately left him barely able to speak. Richard Williams claims in court documents that Lakeisha forged his signature to change the mortgage deed on his house in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, into her name. He then claims an associate of Lakeisha’s pretended to be him so that she could borrow nearly $300,000 of equity on the house from a lender named David Simon to start up a trucking business. CLEO TV kicks off the month of February with fresh episodes of the popular digital series ALL THINGS ADRIENNE WITH ADRIENNE HOUGHTON on Saturday, February 8 at 1 p.m. ET/11C. The network's signature series CLEO SPEAKS resumes with powerful new stories of influential women beginning February 15 at 9 a.m. ET/8C, and brand new episodes of JUST EATS WITH CHEF JJ debuts February 22 at 12 p.m. ET./11C with signature culinary treats. Gospel Spotlight on new single from JEKALYN CARR "CHANGING YOUR STORY! https://www.dropbox.com/s/wphdufecmites2l/Jekalyn%20Carr%20-%20Changing%20Your%20Story%20wav.wav?dl=0 Returning to BET Network’s for season 10 is America’s most inspirational singing competition, “Sunday Best.” The well-established gospel show welcomes back Grammy Award®-winning music legend Kirk Franklin as host. Returning for the second consecutive year as judges are gospel songstress and host of "Get Up Mornings," Erica Campbell, and Grammy-Award® nominated artists Kelly Price and Jonathan McReynolds. Season 10 open call auditions will be held Saturday, February 15th in Atlanta, GA at The House of Hope (4650 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur, GA 30034; registration 6am-11am). Atlanta auditions will be filmed for television. Uptown Ventures Group, the parent company of Uptown Magazine, kicked off Oscar week with their annual event, Lexus Uptown Honors Hollywood, at NeueHouse Hollywood last night. Celebrity guests gathered to honor Power Player Women within the film industry. The evening honorees included writer, producer and creator of “Power (Starz),” Courtney A. Kemp, Executive Vice President of Film Production at Warner Bros. Pictures Niija Kuykendall, writer, performer, producer and show runner Robin Thede, along with creative, young power player, award-winning actress and executive producer Marsai Martin. The night of excellence was hosted by Tai Beauchamp and Chris Spencer. Jay DeMarcus has announced the addition of two-time GRAMMY® winner Jason Crabb to Red Streets Records, the Christian music label he founded in 2018. Crabb and DeMarcus share a long history of friendship and collaboration, first working together on 2013's Love Is Stronger, then reuniting for the GRAMMY award-winning record, Unexpected, that was released in 2018. Through the years, the two have remained close friends and the pair could not be more excited about this moment. Just a few months after his 15-year-old daughter died from a seizure, international worship leader Micah Stampley publicly broke down in front of an audience at a Texas-based mega church. At Bishop T.D. Jakes’ The Potter’s House of Dallas, following the 48-year-old guest songstress’s worship set, Jakes prayed for Stampley, leaving the grieving father sobbing on his knees. “We love you. We love your family. We’ve been praying for you,” Jakes directed his comments to Stampley over the microphone immediately after he had completed a powerful medley of songs. A visibly emotional Stampley made his way over to the 62-year-old longtime mentor who offered the soloist his first recording contract in 2004, blasting Stampley onto the music scene in a big way. Tom Hanks, Chris Rock and Taika Waititi are some of the presenters who will take the Oscars stage at the Dolby Theatre during Sunday’s ceremony. Producers Lynette Howell Taylor and Stephanie Allain announced Wednesday the final slate of actors who signed up to present awards on the ABC broadcast along with Jane Fonda, Oscar Isaac and Natalie Portman. Other names in the overall lineup include Mahershala Ali, Will Ferrell, Keanu Reeves, Regina King, Salma Hayek, Gal Gadot, Spike Lee and Sigourney Weaver. The producers said in a statement that they are grateful to have a dynamic group of presenters for an exciting show. The 92nd Academy Awards will be televised live on ABC Sunday starting at 8 p.m. ET. Controversial director Spike Lee told Rev. Al Sharpton this week that the senators who vote to acquit Trump in his impeachment will “burn in hell.” In an interview with Lee on MSNBC, the BlacKkKlansman director asked Sharpton if senators had to put their hands on the Bible when they took an oath during the impeachment trial. Sharpton responded that he believes there was a Bible on a podium, though he wasn’t sure if they physically had to put their hand on it. “They’re going to burn in hell if they put their hand on that Bible,” Lee said with laughter. Sharpton joined in the laughing. CNN contributor Van Jones warned fellow panelists, and Democrats in general, on Tuesday evening that President Donald Trump was helping African-Americans “in real life” and reaching out to them for their vote in 2020. Jones was reacting to the president’s State of the Union address, in which the president mentioned several efforts to help African-Americans specifically: What he was saying to African-Americans can be effective. You may not like it, but he mentioned HBCUs [historically black colleges and universities] — our black colleges have been struggling for a long time, a bunch of them have gone under — he threw a lifeline to them, in real life, in his budget. He talked about that. He talked about the criminal justice reform. He talked about opportunity zones. He talked about school choice. Chiefs quarterback and Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes slammed cans of beer thrown to him by spectators, and even stepped out for a quick bathroom break along Wednesday’s parade route in Kansas City, where eager fans braved freezing temperatures and a potential snow storm to celebrate Sunday’s 31-20 win over the San Francisco 49ers and the team’s first championship in 50 years. https://youtu.be/XWaRtr-x4o4 There were several controversial calls in Super Bowl LIV that went against the San Francisco 49ers, and former 49ers Jerry Rice is criticizing the officiating in that game. Rice starts by ripping into the offensive pass interference call against tight end George Kittle at the end of the first half. He also bemoaned a couple calls in the fourth quarter, specifically the pass interference call that went against 49ers safety Tarvarius Moore while he was guarding Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, as well as the call that Damien Williams broke the plane of the end zone before stepping out of bounds on the Chiefs’ go-ahead touchdown. “You can’t make excuses or anything like that. We had a chance. We lost the game probably in the last five minutes. We were right in the ball game." In a swap of high scorers, the Minnesota Timberwolves acquired D’Angelo Russell on Thursday from the Golden State Warriors for Andrew Wiggins, according to a person with knowledge of the trade. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the deal had yet to be finalized by the NBA with a few hours remaining before the deadline. ESPN first reported the trade, which also includes additional players and draft picks. Russell had been on Minnesota’s radar for months, a dynamic point guard in his fifth season in the league after going as the second overall pick in the 2015 draft. Robert Covington is going to the Houston Rockets and Clint Capela is headed to the Atlanta Hawks as the headline moves in a complicated four-team trade that was approved by the NBA late Wednesday night. All told, it included 12 players and three draft picks. The Rockets got Covington and Jordan Bell from Minnesota, plus Golden State’s 2024 second-round pick from the Hawks. Atlanta got two centers, Capela and Nenê from Houston. Denver got Gerald Green from Houston along with the Rockets’ 2020 first-round pick. The Nuggets also landed Keita Bates-Diop, Shabazz Napier and Noah Vonleh from Minnesota. Minnesota got Brooklyn’s 2020 first-round pick and Evan Turner from Atlanta, plus Malik Beasley, Jarred Vanderbilt and Juancho Hernangomez from Denver. NFL free agent wide receiver Antonio Brown is continuing his apology tour. In a radio interview Thursday with 93.7 The Fan in Pittsburgh, Brown said he was sorry for “distractions” that he caused when he was a member of the Steelers for nine seasons. “I apologize to those guys for the distractions, the unwanted attention that I probably caused those guys, to the organization,” Brown told 93.7 The Fan. “Obviously you want to clear out any baggage or any disrespect or unintended attention that was brought on to the organization. These guys gave me an opportunity when I was 21 years old. I’m forever grateful to those guys, to have the opportunity to not only play with those guys but to be in so many amazing moments. Some of the tensions stemmed from Roethlisberger, the Steelers quarterback, publicly criticizing Brown in a radio interview. With 1:07 left in the game, Roethlisberger threw an interception in the end zone on a pass that was intended for Brown, and the quarterback subsequently blamed the receiver by saying he should have adjusted on the route. Featuring multiple Grammy winner Hezekiah Walker & Hollywood Mogul Dr. Holly Carter(Clark Sister movie, Preacher's of LA), JDI Records artist Renee Spearman hits #1 on Billboard! Celebrating 36 weeks in a row atop the Billboard chart, Renee Spearman is nominated for this year's Stellar Award Traditional Duo/Group of the Year! Riding high on her hit single "I LOVE HIM"(Billboard's #1 Most Added Song at Radio), Renee Spearman's hit single is one of the breakout songs of the year! In 2013, Kanye West released the album “Yeezus,” the title of which combined Kanye’s nickname — Yeezy — and Jesus. Among the tracks on the album was a song titled “I Am a God.” Six years later, Kanye released “Jesus Is King.” Radically diverging from his previous works, the album is replete with biblical references, gospel choirs and songs such as “Jesus Is Lord” and “Follow God.” According to Kanye, the album is a hip-hop account of his religious conversion to Christianity. Kanye’s religious conversion sparked a variety of reactions. Some celebrated. Some cringed. But all were curious. Last week, the Christian rapper Flame released a new album, “Extra Nos,” chronicling his theological conversion from Calvinism to Lutheranism. (Flame made headlines in July after winning a copyright infringement lawsuit alleging that Katy Perry had wrongfully copied elements from his song “Joyful Noise.”) Stellar Award nominated choral aggregation Demetrius West and Jesus Promoters prepare for the release of their next single, a song of celebratory affirmation, "I’m Next." Released to radio in January. "I’m Nex" is the follow up single to the choir’s previous radio favorite "Open the Floodgates" from the album "Choirology." Singer Maurice “Reggie” Smith has built his repertoire of musical experience by singing with mainstream music giants Estelle, Sinead O'Connor, Robin Gibb from the Bee Gee's, Tears for Fears, Simple Minds, and for some of Gospel’s greatest - James Hall, Hezekiah Walker, Yolanda Adams, Johnathan Nelson and Dorinda Clark-Cole. His notable appearances include BET’S “Bobby Jones Gospel”, BET’s “106 & Park”, NBC’s "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" and the De Laatste Show in Brussels, Belgium. Smith has been a lead vocalist for Gospel groups Trevone Perry and Devine Purpose and Anthony Ponder and Ministry's Desire. He stepoed forward from the background into a solo career releasing his first single “You’re All I Want” in 2014, and a sophomore single “You Are Great” in 2017. Smith starts the new decade with his third single “I Still Believe” which is a precursor to his forthcoming 2020 EP. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f74lFUSg4Js&feature=youtu.be Shannen Doherty is battling a recurrence of breast cancer that has progressed to stage four, telling fans “it’s a bitter pill to swallow.” “I definitely have days where I say, ‘Why me?’ And then I go, ‘Well, why not me? Who else? Who else besides me deserves this?’ None of us do,” Doherty told “Good Morning America” on Tuesday. “I don’t think I’ve processed it. It’s a bitter pill to swallow in a lot of ways.” The actress from “Charmed” and “Beverly Hills, 90210” first revealed she had breast cancer in 2015 and charted her battle with the disease and its remission on social media. A woman who repeatedly told the national NAACP that her supervisor in the North Carolina conference had sexually harassed her is suing the national group and her former boss. Jazmyne Childs is seeking at least $15 million for her emotional and mental distress that she says civil rights organization condoned through its inaction.In the lawsuit filed Monday in Durham County court, attorneys for Childs said she was sexually harassed by the Rev. Curtis Gatewood when she was youth and college field secretary for the state conference in 2017. She suffers from depression, anxiety, nervousness and insomnia, the lawsuit says. The lawsuit seeks more than $5 million in compensatory damages and more than $25,000 in punitive damages on each of three claims: battery, assault and intentional infliction of emotional distress.NAACP officials and Gatewood did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Rihanna will receive the President’s Award during the 51st NAACP Image Awards this month. The NAACP announced Tuesday that it had selected the 31-year-old pop star and fashion icon for her “groundbreaking career as an artist and musician, but (someone who) has also distinguished herself as a stellar public servant.” Rihanna will be given the award during the Feb. 22 ceremony that will be televised for the first time on BET. The show will air live from Pasadena, California. Previous recipients include Jay-Z, Muhammad Ali, Jesse Jackson and Condoleezza Rice. 16-time GRAMMY winning artist, songwriter and producer, Kirk Franklin, joined Nick Cannon and the cast of "Wild N Out" for a hilarious new episode premiering, February 4th, on VH1! Todd Dulaney is back with a game changing new single that he hopes will inspire listeners to go "Back To The Book". The new single "Psalms 18" is the lead song from his 3 song EP that features songs sung straight from the scriptures. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_R-h_UNmgDE&feature=youtu.be Chart-Topping Stellar, Dove & BMI Awarding-Winning Producer & Recording Artist Isaac Carree Returns With First New CD In Six Years No Risk No Reward Set For Release March 20, 2020 Guests Include Kirk Franklin, Zacardi Cortez, Lisa Knowles, Jazze Pha, ?Mr. Talkbox & Others!New song "Legend!" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5ZAKf2Vl7Y&feature=youtu.be Mainstream celebrities Master P, born Percy Robert Miller, and his son, Romeo Miller, attended the 28th annual Movieguide Awards where they told The Christian Post that they’ve veered away from their past hip-hop messages to create content that reflects their Christian faith. While on the red carpet, Master P acknowledged the importance of being at an awards show that celebrates faith and family films. “Romeo has started a brand, Romeo Land, and it’s all about having great content,” he told CP. Along with his roster of businesses, the hip-hop and sports mogul said his movie company, Genius Minds Pictures, and his son’s new company, Romeo Land, are gearing up to release a Christian film. Singer, songwriter, worship leader and musician Darius Twyman is strategically poised to pick up where he left off reintroducing scores of Gospel music lovers to the distinct sounds of his ensemble, Destiny, with the release of their new single, "We are Family, We are Friends. " The Jacksonville Jaguars have long-term plans in place to generate more revenue. They expect to break ground on an entertainment district adjacent to their aging stadium this spring and eventually hope to develop the shipyards along the St. Johns River. Both are years from completion. In the meantime, the Jaguars have found a short-term solution: another home game in London. Jacksonville announced Tuesday it has reached an agreement with the NFL to play consecutive home games at Wembley Stadium next season, doubling the franchise’s overseas income and potentially strengthening its foothold in a market the NFL wants to expand. Warner Bros. Pictures has released a new trailer for the upcoming Ben Affleck sports drama “The Way Back,” highlighting the themes of hope, second chances and redemption. From “The Accountant” director Gavin O’Connor, the movie tells the story of a troubled high school basketball coach (Affleck), who battles addiction and grief while also attempting to inspire and motivate his struggling team. https://youtu.be/GhtTc7R8yBk Tyscot recording artist Ruth La’Ontra has signed a Major Movie Contract Deal! Manager Bishop Arvetra Jones says, “The movie will be in theaters this year world wide!” In the featured film, Ruth will be performing a duet with Gospel recording artist Joshua Rogers! “They will be doing the main soundtrack in the Movie”, says Bishop Jones. TV One announced today that production is underway in Atlanta, GA for its new original film COINS FOR LOVE, slated to premiere in August. The film's stars include Essence Atkins ("Ambitions," "Marlon"), Stephen Bishop ("Imposters," "Being Mary Jane"), TC Carson ("Living Single"), Kendrick Cross ("Ambitions") and Karon Joseph Riley ("35 and Ticking," "A Christmas Blessing"). In this sequel to TV One's popular COINS FOR CHRISTMAS, audiences are reunited with single mother Madison Morris (Atkins) who has landed her dream job at a publishing company. To Madison's dismay, she learns she's been hired on a probationary period and will not receive her full salary until the process is over, again leaving her in a financial struggle to support her two teenage children. Judah Band is gearing up to release an all-new EP titled, "Hush - The EP". The EP is now available for pre-order and will deliver to all digital platforms on Friday, February 14. Judah Band possesses an energy and presence that can’t be contested. Their sound is a melting pot of musical genres that includes: Gospel, Rock, Pop and Classical. "Hush - The EP" is the perfect blend of these 4 musical genres. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CTv8s7_wdzA&feature=emb_logo White supremacist Dylann Roof on Tuesday appealed his federal convictions and death sentence in the 2015 massacre of nine black church members in South Carolina, arguing that he was mentally ill when he represented himself at his capital trial. In a 321-page legal brief filed with the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond, Roof’s lawyers ask the court to review 20 issues, including errors they say were made by the judge and prosecutors that “tainted” his sentencing. One of their main arguments is that U.S. District Judge Richard Gergel should not have allowed Roof to represent himself during the penalty phase of his trial because he was a 22-year-old ninth-grade dropout “who believed his sentence didn’t matter because white nationalists would free him from prison after an impending race war.” Sesame Street said Thursday that Emmy Award-winning actor Billy Porter will appear in an upcoming episode of the popular series while – apparently – wearing a dress. Sesame Street posted photos of Porter on social media. The appearance by Porter, who is gay, likely would have gone unnoticed by most if not for the pictures accompanying the social media messages. Sesame Street’s Twitter and Facebook accounts each showed Porter wearing his famous tuxedo dress, or gown, on set with the characters. Porter – an actor and Broadway performer – is known for wearing women’s clothes. Sesame Street did not disclose whether his choice of clothes is discussed on the show. GOSHEN, The GRAMMY nominated disc from multiple award winner Donald Lawrence, will make its world premiere debut at Chicago’s Broadway Playhouse for a limited engagement from May 22 – 31, 2020. GOSHEN, The Story of the Exodus, brings together GRAMMY Award-winning producer, songwriter, and gospel artist Donald Lawrence and members of The Tri-City Singers, rapper Sir The Baptist, poet J. Ivy and choir master Zeke Locke with Chicago’s Deeply Rooted Dance Theater for a collaboration of gospel music, song, dramatic narrative, and dance-theater rooted in African-American traditions. The work addresses contemporary matters of race and equity while exploring historic themes of power, wealth, fear, and oppression depicted in ancient biblical narrative. BRING IN BLACK HISTORY MONTH WITH THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE LIVE AND CIVIL RIGHTS ACTIVIST ANDREW YOUNG, RAPPER DA BRAT, ACTRESS KEISHA KNIGHT PULLIAM AND MORE! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGmAS1ze_zo Terry Crews apologized for his comments about Gabrielle Union’s claims of mistreatment on “America’s Got Talent,” saying he didn’t mean to “invalidate” her experience and regrets letting down other black women. On the “Today” show last week, Crews said that Union’s allegations of racism on the production didn’t reflect his experience as the NBC talent show’s host. Union was dropped as a judge on the series after one season.In a series of posts Friday on his Twitter account, Crews recounted telling Kevin Hart that he had to “acknowledge the pain of other people.” Baby No. 3 is on the way to the home of Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson and pop star Ciara. The couple announced the news on social media early Thursday with photos of Ciara pregnant and striking a pose. Wilson’s tweet features his bearded visage in the foreground. Ciara seemed to be hinting at the pregnancy on her Instagram account for several weeks, posting photos of herself in Wilson’s No. 3 jersey, using “#3” as a caption and filming a video clip set to rapper DaBaby’s song “BOP,” in which he says, “You know everybody been waitin’ on that baby.” This will be the power couple’s second biological child but the third they are raising together, as Ciara has a son from a previous relationship with rapper Future. He grew his hair so long, it flowed out of his helmet and obscured the name on the back of his jersey. Didn’t matter. Everyone knew where to find Troy Polamalu on Sundays. The Steelers great earned a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame along with another hard-hitting safety, Steve Atwater of Denver. Also voted in Saturday were receiver Isaac Bruce, running back Edgerrin James and guard Steve Hutchinson. Polamalu said he went six or seven years, maybe longer, without cutting his hair during the prime of his career, which lasted from 2003-14. But as much as for the hair, he earned the nickname “Tasmanian Devil” for how he changed the way people thought about the safety position — bolting around the field, making plays from practically anywhere. No quarterback, runner or receiver was safe. Kobe Bryant’s widow posted a heartbreaking photo on Instagram remembering her late husband and their 13-year-old daughter who perished in Sunday’s helicopter crash in Calabasas on the same night the Lakers paid tribute to their memory during an emotional game at Staples Center in Los Angeles. ‘There is no #24 without #2,’ Vanessa Bryant wrote in the caption of the Instagram post showing two empty chairs along courtside at the Staples Center. The Lakers placed Kobe and Gianna Bryant’s basketball jerseys over the backrests while bouquets of red roses were rested on the seats. RCA Inspiration has partnered with acclaimed three-time GRAMMY® nominated artist, songwriter, and producer Mali Music and will be releasing new music in 2020 starting with the single “Let Go.” In partnership with RCA Inspiration and Mali’s imprint, K Approved Enterprises, “Let Go” is available today on all digital music providers. Mali Music also released a new lyric visual for “Let Go” via his YouTube channel. Written by Mali Music and produced by David “D1” Grant, Jr., “Let Go” showcases the distinctive blend of contemporary soulful R&B, hip-hop and inspirational conscious lyricism that have garnered Mali critical and widespread acclaim as one of the music industry’s most compelling creators, with Mali speaking on common temptations we face in life and being strong in spirit facing God. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MzlGcIp1qsc UNCF Los Angeles to host 2020 UNCF Homecoming: An HBCU Experience - a Kickoff Reception to the Mayor’s Masked Ball. Honoring HBCU Alum, Emmy Award® and Golden Globe® Nominated “black-ish” Actor, and Producer Anthony Anderson. February 11, 2020. Los Angeles, Ca. The impact of Jordan Matthews on the San Francisco 49ers isn’t something that can be measured by his football performance. The wide receiver has spent most of the season on the inactive list, playing in only three games and catching four passes. Matthews knows that the eternal impact he’s having on the team is far more valuable than any contribution he can make on the field. Matthews is widely regarded as one of the team’s spiritual pillars. He’s the leader of the team Bible study and is one of the go-to guys for spiritual counsel. Matthews’ ministry was especially meaningful in late December when 49ers backup quarterback C.J. Beathard’s brother Clayton was stabbed to death. Matthews regularly texted Scriptures and encouragement to Beathard and was faithful in praying for him. “Keeping Up with the Kardashians” star Kim Kardashian West shared a video of her 2-year-old daughter, Chicago, singing her “favorite” worship song. “Jesus, I love you! Jesus, I love you! Jesus!,” Chicago is seen singing loudly in the first Instagram clip. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZVy92KMpTvw Globally recognized entrepreneur and faith leader T.D. Jakes announced the launch of his new nonprofit organization, the T.D. Jakes Foundation, which focuses on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) education, workforce preparedness and job training. The foundation's goal is to increase diversity and inclusion, and gender equity, and connect corporations to new, highly skilled pools of talent amid increasing global competition. With the launch of his eponymous foundation, Jakes is building on his many decades of work serving the Dallas community through programs like the Texas Offenders Reentry Initiative (T.O.R.I.), which has received federal, state, city and community awards for its success in preparing former inmates convicted of non-violent crimes for the workforce, and a leadership conference focused on female empowerment. He plans to tap into his many connections in the business world to help level the playing field for women and people of color who have traditionally been underrepresented in high-paying, in-demand STEAM fields. The multi-award-winning singer-songwriter, Darius Paulk, spent an inspiring weekend in Memphis for the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital’s annual Celebration of Hope event which educates members of the music and radio industry on the plight of children fighting cancer and other diseases. While there, Paulk met and played with children who are valiantly fighting for their lives. “My weekend with St Jude’s was nothing short of phenomenal, “ Paulk says. “Having the opportunity to visit the hospital, learn how important St Jude’s is to so many people in our country and abroad, and to interact with those beautiful, resilient children has inspired me in ways that I’m still wrestling to articulate. I’ve come home with an overwhelming desire to help to be a solution, just like Danny Thomas [who founded St Jude’s in 1962].” While visiting the hospital, Paulk sang his current radio single “Strong Name” for a room full of radio announcers and programmers who help spread the word about the good work that St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital does. Kobe Bryant’s widow, Vanessa Bryant, made her first public statement Wednesday, posting a long message on Instagram.“My girls and I want to thank the millions of people who’ve shown support and love during this horrific time. Thank you for all the prayers. We definitely need them.“We are completely devastated by the sudden loss of my adoring husband, Kobe — the amazing father of our children; and my beautiful, sweet Gianna — a loving, thoughtful, and wonderful daughter, and amazing sister to Natalia, Bianka, and Capri.” Pastor Noel Jones joins FOX SOUL host, Dr. Sean, for a conversation surrounding life, religion, and today’s society. Noel Jones is the senior pastor of the City of Refuge Church in Gardena, California, which has about 17,000 members, and was formerly the Greater Bethany Community Church. https://youtu.be/Ir0ZjCBFDXE Kobe Bryant’s remains have been recovered from the site where his helicopter crashed on Sunday, killing his teen daughter Gianna and seven others, including the pilot. Funeral plans have not been publicly announced, as fans and Bryant’s friends and colleagues continue to grieve over his sudden passing. Many are expressing their heartfelt condolences to Bryant’s wife, Vanessa, who is honoring her late husband and daughter with a new profile pic on her Instagram. It’s the first public move she’s made since their deaths. Bishop T.D. Jakes talks on the death of Kobe Bryant. https://youtu.be/ju2Lowqknv8 TIME LIFE has released, "Jubilee Showcase," 36 raw, live performances from the Emmy® Award winning 1960s TV concert series "Jubilee Showcase" as a streaming-only album for the first time. Fans of traditional gospel music can listen globally on over 300 digital service providers such as Apple Music, Spotify and Pandora. The tracks feature some of the biggest Gospel acts of the era like The Staple Singers and the group that first brought R&B star Sam Cooke fame, The Soul Stirrers. The songs echo with the hope and the hopelessness many felt at the height of the Civil Rights Movement. There’s The Staple Singers’ bluesy “Why Am I Treated So Bad?” which they recorded after seeing news reels of how black students were spat on and harassed for integrating Little Rock’s Central High School in 1957. Mavis Staples said that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. always requested the group sing it when he saw they were on the same church program. There are other stunning tracks by Andraé Crouch & The Disciples, The Salem Travelers, The Norfleet Brothers, The Mighty Clouds of Joy, Otis Clay, The Barrett Sisters, The Jessy Dixon Singers, The Caravans, Albertina Walker, The Soul Stirrers Shirley Caesar, Rev. James Cleveland and Inez Andrews. Central City Productions announced the Stellar Award nominees and 5-time Stellar Award-winning quartet maven Keith Wonderboy Johnson along with newcomer Josh Myles earned a nomination in the category of Quartet of the Year. The male duo released the radio single “Believe In Yourself.” Detroit native Reverend John Lee Hooker Jr., is the son of one of the greatest Blues and Legendary music icons in the world, the late John Lee Hooker . He is a musical artist who has received multiple awards throughout his career - 2 Grammy® Nominations, The California Music Award for Best Traditional Artist (2004), The W.C. Handy Award (2004), the Bay Area Music Chapter Come Back Artist of the Year Award, and the 2018 Bobby Blue Bland Lifetime Achievement Award. "My God Is Holy" is Rev. Hooker, Jr.'s first single from his forthcoming TESTIFY album. The single is impacting Gospel and Urban AC Radio stations across the country. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lG-WJuFNR_w&feature=youtu.be Edwrin Sutton’s life has been a whirlwind, and he is reaping blessings at every turn.Newly signed to BlackSmoke Music Worldwide, Sutton’s new single “I Hear Rain” is quickly rising at radio and just made a huge 30-position jump in only one week. The song was also recently featured on Spotify’s New Music Friday playlist. Additionally, Edwrin Sutton was recently appointed Pastor at Caldwell Temple A.M.E. Zion Church in the Bronx. While “I Hear Rain” continues to grow, Sutton’s full album - titled The Sound of Revival LIVE - is being prepared for release later this year. DJ Nichols drops new music video titled “This World” this Friday January 31. DJ Nichols drops new music video titled “This World” this Friday January 31. https://www.youtube.com/djnicholas A historical marker in Mississippi will commemorate the legacy of civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer. Research for the project was led by a Mississippi Valley State University student and a professor who taught him, the Greenwood Commonwealth reported. C. Sade Turnipseed is an associate professor of history, and 17-year-old Nigerian native Brian Diyaolu took her public history course during the fall semester. They recently received approval from the Sunflower County Board of Supervisors to place the Hamer sign in front of the county courthouse. It will be unveiled during a ceremony March 27. DJ Nichols drops new music video titled “This World” this Friday January 31. https://www.youtube.com/djnicholas The bodies of Kobe Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter and seven others who died in a helicopter crash have been recovered from a Calabasas hillside, coroner officials said Tuesday. Authorities on Sunday recovered the bodies of at least three victims from the helicopter wreckage. The next day, the search continued for the six remaining victims. Their bodies were eventually located and taken to the Los Angeles County Coroner’s forensic science center, where officials will work to identify them. Authorities investigating the devastating incident said the impact of the crash was intense, shattering the chopper and sending debris over a wide area. Kobe Bryant’s grieving wife, Vanessa, is trying her very best to be strong for her three daughters after the deaths of her husband and their 13-year-old, Gianna. The NBA legend and Vanessa married in April 2001 when he was 22 and she was 18. Together they have four children: Gianna, 13, who was killed alongside her father, Natalia, 17, three-year-old Bianka, and seven-month-old Capri. ‘It’s an extremely difficult and devastating time for Vanessa and the whole family,’ a source told People. Another insider said Vanessa is completely ‘devastated’ and can ‘hardly keep it together’. ‘She can’t finish a sentence without crying. But she is working very hard to pull it together for the other girls. She now has to be the strong one.’ Deion Sanders was linked to the Florida State head coaching job a couple of months ago via an unconfirmed rumor, but there was never any indication that he was an actual candidate for the job. However, the Hall of Famer says it is “definite” that he will be a head coach at the college level roughly a year from now. In an appearance on “The Dan Patrick Show” Tuesday morning, Sanders said it is a certainty that he will be a college head coach in 2021. He also claimed he had an interview with Florida State and another school, though he would not specify which. In a time when life feels fragile and love can seem fleeting, there are signposts reminding us that life holds immeasurable meaning and love can last a lifetime if we have vision and faith and accrue the tools to sustain what we hold dear. Joseph “Rev Run” Simmons is a living example of iconic musical accomplishment and steady business acumen, but more importantly, as he sees it, he is a living example of how to live one’s life in faith and love. Rev Run and his wife Justine Simmons has a new book, "Old School Love: And Why It Works." On a rainy Friday morning in Lynchburg, Va., Grammy Award-winning gospel music artist Tasha Cobbs Leonard brought sunshine and joy to Liberty University’s Vines Center with her inspirational songs of encouragement and peace. Tasha began her solo music career 10 years ago and has reached many with her passion for praising the Lord through worship. In 2014, she won her first Grammy for Best Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Performance. In 2015, she won Gospel Artist of the Year at the GMA Dove Awards. During Convocation, Tasha was vulnerable about her battle against depression. The gifted vocalist discussed how she has fought anxiety and depression for years. Cobbs encouraged Liberty students to immerse themselves in Scripture while understanding that reading the Gospel will bring one closer to Jesus. “Burden,” a powerful new film about a former KKK member whose life was transformed after forming a friendship with a black preacher he once planned to assassinate, will soon hit the big screen. Releasing in select theaters Feb. 28, “Burden” follows the true story of Michael Eugene Burden Jr., who in 1996 opened the Redneck Shop and Klan Museum in Laurens, South Carolina, displaying KKK paraphernalia, including white-hooded Klan uniforms and photographs of lynchings. However, after meeting a woman who persuades him to leave the KKK, Burden renounces his Klan membership and sells his store to the Rev. David E. Kennedy, a black pastor whose own uncle was lynched by the KKK. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxW_rCchmD8 Kirk Franklin gave praise to “Jesus the King, because it is all about Him” after bagging the award for Best Gospel Performance for his song “Love Theory” at the 62nd annual Grammy Awards on Sunday in Los Angeles. At the awards ceremony, Franklin sent his prayers to the family of NBA legend Kobe Bryant, who died along with his daughter and seven others on Sunday in a helicopter accident in California. Kobe Bryant‘s impact on LA and beyond is huge. Organizers of his memorial are contemplating holding it at the iconic LA Coliseum because Staples Center just isn’t big enough! Staples holds between 18 and 20, 000, while the Coliseum holds around 80,000 people. Plus, there’s surrounding parks in the area that can accommodate many, many more. Returning to BET Networks for the seventh consecutive year on Saturday, February 1, 2020, the 21st Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration will be hosted by Rickey Smiley. The annual NFL-Sanctioned event will go down during Super Bowl LIV week, filming in front of a live audience Thursday, January 30, 2020, at the James L. Knight Center. The one-hour special will feature performances by the NFL Players Choir, an exclusive reunion of the legendary group Commissioned, Donnie McClurkin, Yolanda Adams, Anthony Brown & Group Therapy, Travis Greene and BET Sunday Best Winners Le’Andria Johnson and Melvin Crispell III. This year’s Super Bowl Gospel Honorees are NFL Players/brothers and American Cancer Society ambassadors Quinnen Williams (New York Jets) and Quincy Williams (Jacksonville Jaguars). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZh4a7vaT8I&feature=youtu.be Dr. Collen Hawthorne will be speaking on this year's theme, “Fierce and Focused” at the Selah Leadership Encounter for Women 2020, in Atlanta, March 27-28, 2020!! Selah, named by Essence Magazine as one of the top 11 conferences for women to level up in 2019, is a holistic and transformative opportunity for women to encounter and learn from thought leaders and idea curators, which in turn helps them to build their legacies from the community, to the C-suite, to the congregation. Highlights from Selah 2019: https://vimeo.com/376488108 The Better Man Event™ now in its 16th year announced today Mariano Rivera, Lecrae, Rev. Sammy Rodriguez and Jonnie W. all will take the BME 2020 stage at Silver Spurs Arena in Kissimmee, Fla. Saturday May 16th. Thousands of men were equipped, encouraged and engaged in what it means to be better in every area of their lives - 2019 speakers included Evander Holyfield, Journey's Jonathan Cain, Hobby Lobby Founder David Green, KORN's Brian "Head" Welch, UCF Quarterback McKenzie Milton and Rev. Anthony Thompson. The men packed out Addition Financial Arena at the University of Central Florida at the 15th annual Better Man Event April 13, 2019. The Russell Simmons #MeToo documentary featuring women who claimed the music mogul sexually assaulted them received a standing ovation at the Sundance Film Festival this weekend. Titled “On The Record,” the project features testimony from Drew Dixon, Sil Lai Abrams and Alexia Norton Jones about their experiences with Simmons. It was previously reported, Abrams said she dated Simmons on and off in the early ’90s but she called it off after he raped her in 1994. Jones claims Simmons raped her on their first date in 1991. It may be too soon to call, but from what can be surmise, at this juncture, we’re talking pilot error as being a prime, if not the key factor, in the Kobe Bryant helicopter crash. The pilot of the helicopter carrying Kobe Bryant, his daughter and 6 other passengers got in big trouble with fog which was heavy Sunday morning. Seemingly, they were aborting the trip and were returning home. They barely cleared one mountain range, but never slowed down … this according to the flight tracker and several experienced helicopter pilots in the L.A. area. https://youtu.be/EJtp9ah-f98 Kobe Bryant was in the process of setting up trademarking and branding plans for his daughter Gianna (GiGi) to follow in his footsteps with her very own nickname. Kobe filed paperwork for “Mambacita” on Dec. 30, 2019. The name is obviously both a tip of the hat to GiGi’s father — the Black Mamba — and also to her own growing prowess on the hardcourt. Nicki Minaj‘s brother has been sentenced to 25 years to life in prison following the guilty verdict in his child rape trial. Monday, several months after a guilty verdict had been reached, Judge Robert McDonald sentenced Jelani Maraj in a New York court. Maraj was found guilty of predatory sexual assault against a child and endangering the welfare of a child in a trial that lasted less than 3 weeks. At the time of the verdict, the Nassau County D.A. said, “We hope that today’s verdict will help the family in the healing process.” Kirk Franklin celebrated a double win at the 62nd Annual GRAMMY® Awards. Winning Best Gospel Performance/Song for his #1 hit “Love Theory” and Best Gospel Album for his #1 album LONG LIVE LOVE, this marks his fifteenth and sixteenth GRAMMY® Awards. Franklin also performed on the GRAMMY® Awards’ tribute to Nipsey Hussle, which aired live from the Staples Center in Los Angeles, collaborating with DJ Khaled, John Legend, YG, Meek Mill, and Roddy Ricch, in honoring the memory of the late rapper and activist. Grammy Winner Yolanda Adams announced that she will perform at this year’s Super Bowl. Adams will be performing America the Beautiful at Super Bowl LIV in Miami. The Super Bowl will be on Fox. Leading worship leader, recording artist and pastor, William McDowell releases new single "Only You Can Satisfy," to digital outlets. The song, recorded last May at McDowell's incomparable live recording "THE CRY,” was initially released on a limited-edition physical album released at McDowell’s 2019 Habitation Conference. Now available to all digitally “Only You Can Satisfy,” is an extension of the compelling, and potent worship experience heard on “THE CRY.” McDowell is also preparing for his Deeper Worship Intensive, a comprehensive 4-Day conference for praise and worship leaders, singers, musicians and creatives. Unlike any conference, DWI specifically aims to equip, educate and support creators and carriers of the ‘sound’ of worship. https://williammcdowell.lnk.to/OnlyYouCanSatisfy Entertainment One (“eOne”) has earned a combined total of 17 nominations for the 34th annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards. Leading eOne’s nominations are JJ Hairston (9) and Pastor John P. Kee (5). Rounding out eOne’s nominations is powerhouse Praise and Worship leader Todd Dulaney with 3 nominations. The Stellar Awards will go down in Las Vegas at The Orleans Arena Friday, March 27, 2020 and will be hosted by Jonathan McReynolds, with Koryn Hawthorne. Kobe Bryant was tragically killed Sunday when the helicopter he was traveling in crashed and burst into flames in Calabasas, California. His daughter Gianna, aka “Gigi,” 13, was also on board and died along with seven others. Following the news of the accident, Christian celebrities, pastors and other leaders in the faith community took to social media to express their shock and sorrow. From Lecrae to TobyMac. Hip-hop artist Lecrae said he was “physically shaken” over the tragedy. He shared a video of Bryant explaining a basketball game to Gianna while sitting courtside last month. “Lord We pray for the Bryant family. We pray for all those affected. We pray for the other families of those in the helicopter. We ask that your Spirit would be a comforter. In Jesus name,” he wrote. Producer DeVon Franklin shared a video of himself praying for Bryant’s family and all affected by the tragic accident. “Praying for the families and everyone grieving,” he captioned the video. After over 4 billion listens to Pentatonix on YouTube alone, the newest member to the band, Matt Sallee, is seeing God do something new and different in his industry. Pentatonix is an a cappella band made up of five members who are literally performing everywhere. Taking their unique style of music and covering everything, they have been featured in rock, pop, classic, and hip-hop spaces all over the world. Their genre-bending takes on classics have been some of the most viewed and listened to online over the past few years. Matt is also a worship leader at his local church, which just came out with a new worship album, "Make Way" from E58 Worship. Kobe’s daughter Gianna Maria Onore — aka GiGi — was also on board the helicopter and died in the crash … reps for Kobe tell TMZ Sports. She was 13. Reports say they were on their way to the Mamba Academy for a basketball practice when the crash occurred. The Academy is in nearby Thousand Oaks. Officials say they believe 9 people were on board — 1 pilot and 8 passengers — and there were no survivors. Still unclear why the chopper crashed but an investigation is underway. Former President Barack Obama says, “Kobe was a legend on the court and just getting started in what would have been just as meaningful a second act.” “To lose Gianna is even more heartbreaking to us as parents. Michelle and I send love and prayers to Vanessa and the entire Bryant family on an unthinkable day.” “You know how old I am,” Cicely Tyson, 95, told a TV critics during TCA Thursday. “Who in the world lives this long?” The acclaimed actress was part of a panel discussion for “Cherish the Day,” an eight-episode OWN anthology series created and produced by Ava DuVernay. During the session, Tyson made time to describe her annual birthday eve ritual. “I sit at a table with a clock … and when it gets to one minute after 12, that’s when I say, ‘Thank you,’ and ‘Happy birthday, Cicely,” said Tyson, who was born Dec. 19, 1924. For “Cherish the Day,” DuVernay said she wanted to “do something lovely and light,” adding that she is a “sucker for love stories.” Rev. Luther Barnes drops a new single "Look To the Hills." A inspirational ballad that's a hit out of the box. https://soundcloud.com/shanachie-1/rev-luther-barnes-and-the-restoration-worship-center-choir-look-to-the-hills/s-5mgGQ In September 2019, Hurricane Dorian tore through The Bahamas devastating the islands. Like most Bahamians, singer/songwriter, REXY,* was faced with the reality that life can change instantly. Determined to make every second of life impactful, she committed to making her childhood dream a reality. Her journey towards that dream is not the typical one for a pop starlet! A millennial savvy businesswoman, Rexy currently serves as Vice President of Operations and General Counsel at Western Air, the largest privately-owned airline in The Bahamas. After growing up in the aviation industry with her parents and building a successful career of her own with cover stories and features in Essence, BET.com, XONecole, Conde Nast Traveler, TVOne, Bauce Magazine and more, Rexy* is kicking off 2020 releasing “All Our Lives,” a song she says is about “embracing the love and life you’ve always wanted!” “I’m finally living the dreams of that little girl holding a hairbrush singing & dancing in the mirror,” shares Rexy. Meghan Markle has told her inner circle of friends she is planning to give her first interview to Ellen DeGeneres after the two have become close. ‘Ellen and Meghan have already discussed a sit-down interview. That has been in the works for quite some time now,’ a source at the Ellen Show confirmed. The two met by chance years ago at a dog shelter in Los Angeles where Ellen encouraged Meghan to adopt her first dog Bogart, and the women have stayed in touch. Serena Williams says she wanted to punch a wall after her “unprofessional” exit from the Australian Open on Friday. The American was beaten 6-4, 6-7, (2-7), 7-5 by Wang Qiang, bringing to an end her quest for a record-equaling 24th Grand Slam title. She currently has 23, while Margaret Court is one ahead. GRAMMY® and Billboard Award-nominated, and DOVE Award-winning, triple-threat artist Tauren Wells releases his sophomore album Citizen of Heaven today at select retailers and across all major digital retail outlets. Citizen of Heaven the follow up to Wells’ solo debut Hills and Valleys features the lead single “Like You Love Me." The new project boasts several outstanding collaborations, including Kirk Franklin on “Millionaire (Good Like That)”; Rascal Flatts on “Until Grace”; spoken word intro from Steven Furtick of Elevation Worship on “Close”; and Jenn Johnson on “Famous For (I Believe). Chuck Butler and Jordan Sapp co-produced 10 of the album’s 12 tracks, with additional production on the remaining songs by Rascal Flatts, Kirk Franklin, Max Stark, and Colby Wedgeworth. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GwirdlbkUD8&feature=youtu.be Jokia drops new music, "Yahweh." Her latest EP, "NEVER FORGOTTEN" is a collective of powerfully affirming tunes, and is available everywhere digital music is sold. https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/JOKIA-YAHWEH-RADIO-O2zg6L99qF18D8t0isWDG GRAMMY®-nominated iconic choirmaster Ricky Dillard makes his Motown Gospel debut with the multi-track single “Release,” featuring Tiff Joy, and “More Abundantly Medley,” available today for streaming and download across all digital platforms. Dillard will also join fans today at 12pm ET for a live chat as he premieres the compelling performance video of his new anthem “Release” on his YouTube channel. TV One puts a fresh spin on romantic dramas with the premiere of the original film, STEPPIN' BACK TO LOVE which will air on Saturday, February 8 at 8 P.M. ET/7C. The film follows a once-loving couple connected by dance, who after facing marital struggles, use their passion for Chicago-style step-dancing to reignite the spark in their marriage. STEPPIN' BACK TO LOVE stars Darrin Henson, Monique Coleman, Dorien Wilson, Brely Evans, Erica Pinkett, Mykel Shannon Jenkins, Blue Kimble, with a special appearance by Porsha Williams. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C60L2fWs0dg&feature=youtu.be THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE PREPARE FOR A WEEK OF EDUCATION AND ENTERTAINMENT WITH RAPPER/TV AND RADIO PERSONALITY YUNG JOC, AUTHORS, GILLY SEGAL, KIMBERLY JONES, TENESHIA JACKSON WARNER AND MANY MORE! Residents of the Chinese city at the centre of the country’s coronavirus crisis fear they are ‘trapped’ and will all be infected because of the government lockdown which has stopped anyone from leaving. Authorities today scrambled to shut tourist attractions and public transport systems in 14 cities in a bid to stop the spread of the deadly new coronavirus that has killed at least 26 people. In a drastic turn of events, part of the Great Wall of China and Disneyland in Shanghai were closed today as authorities desperately try to stop people spreading the Wuhan coronavirus. Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes came under fire on social media over his old tweets about the George Zimmerman and Trayvon Martin case and his apparent support for law enforcement. The 2011 tweets surfaced prior to the AFC Championship game between the Chiefs and the Tennessee Titans and appeared to show Mahomes and his former high school football teammate talking back-and-forth about the case and the trial. The quarterback was initially being hit on Twitter for his alleged support of Zimmerman, who was cleared of all charges in the 2013 shooting of the unarmed black teenager. Country singer Carrie Underwood thanked God for her miracle child on his first birthday. “Happy birthday, Jacob!” the Grammy winner wrote on Instagram along with a slideshow of her 1-year-old eating an entire cake on his own. “How are you already 1 year old? You are smiley, crazy, smart, soooo fast and into everything! And, apparently, you love cake! I can’t wait to see your personality continue to shine! I have a good feeling you’re going to keep us all on our toes for years to come!” “I thank God for you each and every day. You are truly our miracle baby!!! Mommy loves you!” Jeremy Camp was driving down California’s Big Bear Mountain, fasting and praying for a breakthrough from pain and grief. Melissa had died only three months after their wedding. Camp sought solace in the mountains. It was his song “Walk by Faith,” still on a demo that day in 2001, that helped him heal.The Grammy-nominated, chart-topping Christian singer and songwriter’s love and loss of Melissa is the focus of the upcoming biopic “I Still Believe.” With the same title as the first song Camp wrote after Melissa’s February 2001, death, “I Still Believe” is a love story that offers healing to all mankind, says Camp.https://youtu.be/2yn_zPs4SKQ It’s widely expected that the Cowboys will find some way to bring back QB Dak Prescott on a new deal in 2020. But what about Pro Bowl wide receiver Amari Cooper? Having spent one-and-a-half successful years in Dallas, the impending free agent wideout has made it clear what he wants to do next season. Cooper states that he loves Dallas and feels like it’s home. He declared that he wants to live in Dallas “for a long time.” JDI Recording artist Renee Spearman receives a 2020 Stellar Award nomination! Renee Spearman is nominated for this year's Stellar Award Traditional Duo/Group of the Year! Riding high on her hit single "I LOVE HIM" Renee Spearman's hit is one of the breakout songs of the year! Dr. Alyn E. Waller Presents Zak Williams and 1/Akord has been nominated for a Stellar Gospel Music Award in the category of Traditional Gospel Choir of the Year. His new single is "He Reigns."https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3g69lrg9Lo&feature=youtu.be “Sopranos” actress Annabella Sciorra confronted Harvey Weinstein from the witness stand Thursday, telling a jury in a quivering voice that the Hollywood studio boss barged into her apartment in the mid-1990s, overpowered her and raped her as she tried to fight him off by kicking and punching him. She said that a month later, she ran into him and confronted him about what happened, and he replied: “That’s what all the nice Catholic girls say.” Then, she told the jury, the burly Weinstein leaned toward her and added menacingly: “This remains between you and I.” “I thought he was going to hit me right there,” Sciorra testified. Florida authorities say that embattled NFL free agent Antonio Brown has ‘locked himself in’ his Hollywood, Florida, home following reports he would be charged with battery – as the athlete’s ex girlfriend shares her concerns over his mental health. Christian Lata, the public information officer for the Hollywood Police Department, explained to USA Today that police have made many unsuccessful attempts to reach Brown. The former Pittsburgh Steelers star did take to his Twitter to offer his own thoughts on the reports that he and his trainer were wanted for battery and burglary. ‘They want my name slandered,’ Brown said in a Wednesday morning tweet. But the mother of Brown’s children, Chelsie Kyriss, felt that the latest incident were signs of his ‘desperate’ need of ‘mental health treatment’. Returning to BET Networks for the seventh consecutive year on Saturday, February 1, 2020, the 21st Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration will be hosted by Rickey Smiley. The annual NFL-Sanctioned event will film in front of a live audience during Super Bowl LIV week on Thursday, January 30, 2020 at the James L. Knight Center and premiere exclusively on BET Networks on Saturday, February 1, 2020, at 8:00 PM ET/PT. The special will feature performances by the NFL Players Choir, a reunion of the legendary group Commissioned, Donnie McClurkin, Travis Greene and BET's Sunday Best winners Le'Andria Johnson and Melvin Crispell III. During the program, NFL brothers and American Cancer Society ambassadors Quinnen Williams (New York Jets) and Quincy Williams (Jacksonville Jaguars) will be honored with the "Faith In Action" Award. The Williams brothers lost their mother to breast cancer in 2010 and have turned their tragedy into triumph by donating their time and resources to ensuring that African Americans receive proper testing for cancer in urban communities. Motown Gospel is honored to celebrate 11 Stellar Gospel Music Awards nominations. Multi-Stellar Gospel Music Award winner Tasha Cobbs Leonard earns eight nominations, while dynamic husband and wife duo Jerard & Jovaun earns two nominations. A Motown Gospel Christmas album earns one nomination in the Special Event CD of the Year category. The Stellar Gospel Music Awards announced 2020 nominees Tuesday, January 21, 2020. Central City Productions today announced the Stellar Award nominees in 28 categories for the milestone 35th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards taping on Friday, March 27 at the Las Vegas Orleans Arena. The celebration is co-hosted by Koryn Hawthorne and Jonathan McReynolds. This year’s James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award will honor the iconic Clark Sisters - Karen Clark Sheard, Dorinda Clark Cole, Twinkie Clark and Jacky Clark Chisholm. Donald Lawrence Presents The Tri-City Singers leads the field of nominees with (9), Kirk Franklin (8), Tasha Cobbs Leonard with (8), JJ Hairston (7), Bishop Paul S. Morton (6), John P. Kee (5), Kurt Carr & The Kurt Carr Singers (4), William Murphy (4) and Pastor Mike Jr. (4). Other artists earning multiple Stellar nominations include: The Walls Group, Todd Dulaney, Maranda Curtis, Fresh Start Worship, Le’Andria Johnson, Jekalyn Carr and Jerard & Jovaun. Tyscot Records – the oldest operating African American recording label in the world have garnered a dozen Stellar Gospel Music Award nominations. Bishop Paul S. Morton & the Full Gospel Ministry of Worship’s live recording, "A Month of Sundays"received six nominations. Anthony Brown & group therAPy earned a nomination for their Gospel Go Go track. “Blessings on Blessings.” Casey J’s sophomore album, "The Gathering"garnered a nomination and the legendary Thompson Community Singers aka The Tommies earned two nominations for The Tommies Reunion. Tyscot earned a nomination as Youth Project of the Year for the album, "Gospel Kids Present Christian Soldiers." Rihanna has teamed up with i-D to release Rihannazine, a collection of celebrity interviews and editorials the singer co-curated. The publication includes interviews with musicians such as rappers Rico Nasty and Young M.A., as well as models Bella and Gigi Hadid. Rihannazine was released as part of i-D‘s 40th anniversary, and is available online and as a limited print edition, per UPROXX. Award-winning music producer Timothy Zachary Mosley, known professionally as Timbaland, has had a successful career since the ’90s, but is now shedding light on the toll his professional career has had on his life and how God has been reconstructing him. In the January issue of Men’s Health, the 47 year old revealed that in 2011 he was introduced to prescription painkillers after a root canal. (OxyContin and Percocet) He would soon become addicted and then use them to cope with the chaos of his life. Simultaneously, Mosley and his wife divorced, he was $4 million behind on his taxes, and he admitted to popping pills “way over the limit.” It was the fear of dying that eventually grabbed his attention. He was finally able to kick the addiction after taking some time away, “just me and God,” he said. “This was the path chosen for me. God was rebuilding my character,” Mosley said, explaining that going through his withdrawal was “one of the toughest things” he had ever been through. The nation’s first memorial to lynching victims is expanding. The Equal Justice Initiative on Saturday opened a new welcome center and exhibition space that will add to the existing lynching memorial and museum that documents the history of racial inequality in America. The pavilion, located in downtown Montgomery, will serve as a hub for visitors to the two previously opened sites, EJI’s National Memorial for Peace and Justice, which documents the era of racial terror lynchings between 1877 and 1950 and the Legacy Museum. Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden continued to run up his advantage among black political leaders Tuesday, with four Congressional Black Caucus members announcing their support, including three who previously backed Sens. Kamala Harris or Cory Booker. Georgia Rep. Sanford Bishop was making his first public declaration of support in the Democratic primary. New Jersey Rep. Donald Payne previously backed Booker. Florida Reps. Alcee Hastings and Frederica Wilson previously backed Harris. Payne, Hastings and Wilson are the first Black Caucus members to pick new candidates after Booker and Harris ended their campaigns. The Biden campaign confirmed the endorsements Tuesday, bringing the 77-year-old candidate’s roster of Black Caucus supporters to 15. That far outpaces any of his Democratic rivals and underscores his advantage with and dependence on a key Democratic constituency. Harris had peaked at 11 Black Caucus endorsements. Rutgers University named a high-ranking Northwestern University official as its new leader on Tuesday, making him the school’s first black president. Jonathan Holloway, 52, will start his new job on July 1 after receiving approval from the Rutgers Board of Governors. He will be the 21st president of New Jersey’s flagship university, succeeding Robert Barchi, who has led Rutgers since September 2012. Holloway, a married father of two, has served as Northwestern’s provost since 2017. Before that, he was the dean of Yale College and Edmund S. Morgan Professor of African American Studies, History, and American Studies at the Ivy League school. New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning is retiring after 16 seasons and two Super Bowl MVPs. Manning, 39, steps away holding almost every passing record in team history and a pair of Super Bowl rings. His victories over the New England Patriots after the 2007 and ’11 seasons are the most iconic moments from a legendary career. They will put him in the conversation for the Hall of Fame in five years, when he’s eligible. Manning is one of just five players in NFL history with at least two Super Bowl MVPs. He’s in an elite club with Joe Montana, Bart Starr, Tom Brady and Terry Bradshaw. The Giants will hold a news conference at 11 a.m. ET Friday, when Manning will address the media. Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald has purchased a minority stake in the NBA’s Phoenix Suns. Fitzgerald just finished his 16th season with the Cardinals and is among the most productive receivers in NFL history. He recently signed a one-year deal to return for 2020. The 36-year-old Fitzgerald is often at Suns games, sitting courtside with managing partner Robert Sarver. Sarver said in a statement Wednesday that Fitzgerald “has been a great ambassador for our organization for years” and “brings a unique perspective from outside basketball but still grounded in sport, and we welcome him as a valued partner and investor.” Kansas forward Silvio De Sousa has been suspended indefinitely for his role in the Jayhawks’ brawl with Kansas State on Tuesday night. Kansas announced the suspension Wednesday in a statement from coach Bill Self. The school did not reveal a specific length of De Sousa’s suspension or additional punishment for any other player, citing its joint review with the Big 12. The melee began when De Sousa blocked DaJuan Gordon‘s shot in the final seconds of an 81-60 victory and then stood over Gordon. At one point during the brawl, De Sousa, who had thrown multiple punches, held a stool above his head before assistant coach Jerrance Howard grabbed it from him. When a black student from St. Louis created a book club because didn’t find books at his majority-white school’s library that told stories of people who look like him, he had no idea his initiative would land him on Disney’s screen as a hero. Sidney Keys III founded Books n Bros, a book club for black boys and others ages 7 to 13 years old. Now the 13-year-old is the focus of Disney’s “The Spectacular Sidney,” a 30-minute documentary released Friday as part of Marvel’s Hero Project. Streaming on Disney Plus, the short film series, which began its first season in November 2019, recognizes how young people are making a difference. “I do it to promote African American literacy,” Sidney said. “Kids, especially kids of color, like to read books that they can relate to. Adults force books on them, which they might not like.” For Sidney, it has always been about reading books. SYLEENA JOHNSON CELEBRATES HER 10TH STUDIO ALBUM RELEASE, WOMAN, IN ATLANTA ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 28. Senior Pastor Brandon Clack has appointed Vincent Tharpe worship pastor of All Nations Worship Assembly, Memphis. Tharpe is well known as the impassioned front man of the three-time Stellar Award nominated praise and worship ensemble Vincent Tharpe & Kenosis, who recorded new live music this past fall and will have a new single serviced to radio in February. Nominations for the 35th Annual Stellar Awards were announced and RCA Inspiration, one of the top record labels in gospel and inspirational music, received 34 nominations. RCAI artists Kirk Franklin, Donald Lawrence, Kurt Carr, Le’Andria Johnson, William Murphy and Kierra Sheard are recognized in 20 different categories including Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Contemporary Album of the Year and Traditional Album of the Year. Also, RCAI’s Senior Vice President and General Manager Phil Thornton and Vice President of Artist Development, Ron Hill received Producer of the Year nods. And the Stellars will be co-hosted by RCA Inspiration artist, Koryn Hawthorne, and Jonathan McReynolds. UNSUNG continues its stellar run with an all-new season premiering Sunday, February 23 at 10 P.M. ET/9C. The season kicks off with the popular 90s R&B group Dru Hill. The season continues with memorable stories of influential artists including rap's first female star MC Roxanne Shante; singer/actor Christopher Williams; funk and disco band Skyy; the "Mother of Freestyle" Shannon; Grammy Award-winning crooner behind the 1972 number one single "Me and Mrs. Jones," Billy Paul; vocal powerhouse Betty Wright, best known for the 70s hit single "Clean Up Woman;" multi-Grammy Award-winning musician Al Jarreau; and Atlanta hip hop quartet Goodie Mob. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3OfqR9_LnY&feature=youtu.be Facebook and The Alfred Street Baptist Church (ASBC) and its Foundation are partners for the third consecutive year; supporting the 18th Annual Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) College Festival (Festival). The 2020 Festival will take place on Saturday, January 25, 2020, at the National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland. Once again, this event will enable African American youth to connect with over 70 representatives of the nation’s historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), while providing information on college admission, financial aid, academic disciplines and other areas of college life. Most schools in attendance will offer instant admission, conduct on-site interviews and may even waive application fees. Tim Tebow has married pageant queen Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters in an ‘intimate sunset ceremony’ in her home country of South Africa. The couple held their half-hour nuptials at the La Paris Estate in Cape Town, according to People magazine. It following a weekend of glamorous pre-wedding celebrations which he documented on social media. Tim, 32, a devout Christian who vowed to stay abstinent until marriage, mixed tradition with a personal touch for his vows, wanting them to be ‘perfect.’ Demi-Leigh, 24, who’s a spokes model for David’s Bridal, wore a custom gown by the wedding dress giant, and accessorized with Marion Rehwinkel Jewelery. Meanwhile, Tim suited up in Antar Levar. Patrick Mahomes has supplanted Tom Brady as the quarterback of the AFC representative in the Super Bowl and he’s also taken Brady’s spot as the player generating the most merchandise sales. The NFL Players Association announced Monday that officially licensed NFL player-identified merchandise featuring Mahomes outsold that of any other player between March 1 and November 30. The NFLPA release also said that the union anticipates Mahomes will remain in first place when the entire year’s figures are in. Brady was No. 1 the last two years and the Patriots quarterback is now No. 2 behind Mahomes. Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott, Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield, Browns wide receiver Odell Beckham, Bears linebacker Khalil Mack, Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott, Giants running back Saquon Barkley and Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster round out the Top 10. Anthony Brown & group therAPy new single "THIS WEEK." Anthony Brown testifies in his gruff tenor on the intro of this affirmative provocation of the miraculous. Atop a mid-tempo bed of muted horns, and 21st century urban instrumentation, the group heartily speaks good things and greater miracles into existence by the sheer testimony of their faith in the Almighty. It won’t happen next month or next week. No, it’s coming this week. It’s a warm, welcome and infectious follow-up to Anthony Brown & group therAPy’s No. 1 smash, “Blessings on Blessings.” https://spaces.hightail.com/space/5kHV9RqFmJ/files/fi-eb039717-daca-4b52-a9d9-6f275be577e8/fv-922ccaa7-d6c4-4439-a966-e2ef8e11b094/This%20Week%20(Radio%20Edit)%20192.mp3 The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel will air Easter on Saturday, April 11th at 8pm eastern and pacific, only on Lifetime. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXAEIwSMulU&feature=youtu.be Tennis’ rising star is continuing her path of dominance. Coco Gauff, 15, faced off against Venus Williams in the first round of the Australian Open on Monday, defeating the tennis veteran, 39, 7-6, 6-3. The match marked Gauff’s first time competing in the main draw in Melbourne. Monday’s match came just over six months after Gauff made her impressive debut at Wimbledon last summer, defeating her idol and five-time Wimbledon champion Williams. Besides beating Williams, Gauff also became the youngest player since 1991 to win in the first round of the ladies’ singles at Wimbledon. Enon Music Group continues to deliver on its promise of great gospel music for the whole world with the national release of music from Rhythm of Gospel Award winners Minister Derrick McDuffey and Kingdom Sound. Their radio single, Heaven hits digital outlets on January 21st. Monday, the MLK Jr. national holiday, the U.S. Navy is expected to announce that a new aircraft carrier will be named after Mess Attendant 2nd Class Doris Miller. If you by chance the name Doris Miller doesn’t ring a bell in your head, he was the first African American to receive the Navy Cross for valor for his actions on Dec. 7, 1941, when he manned a machine gun on the USS West Virginia to fire back at attacking Japanese planes. On top of that, he was not a trained gunman, he was a cook! “I think that Doris Miller is an American hero simply because of what he represents as a young man going beyond the call of what’s expected,” said Doreen Ravenscroft, president of Cultural Arts of Waco (Texas), and team leader for the Doris Miller Memorial. Back in 1941, an African American was not allowed to man a gun in the Navy, and as far as rank was concerned, “he could not really get above a messman level,” Ravenscroft said. https://youtu.be/oeDJV-kCQP8 The Rev. Maceo L. Woods, a longtime pastor on Chicago’s South Side and an influential gospel musician, has died at age 87. A musical celebration, viewing, and funeral are being held this weekend for Woods, the recipient of a Legends awards from gospel music’s Stellar Awards and a Lifetime Achievement award from the Chicago Gospel Music Awards. Upon hearing news of Woods’ death, colleagues, congregants, and listeners have been reflecting on the spiritual and cultural impact of the pastor-musician’s lengthy, multifaceted career. Richard Valitutto offered an impressive Piano Spheres program at the Colburn School’s Zipper Hall this week. The recital Tuesday, however, began surprisingly with George Walker’s Piano Sonata No. 5. It also was around six minutes, but it was in a declamatory style that might have seemed to have nothing to do with anything else on the program. Walker, who died in 2018 at age 96, was one of America’s most distinguished composers. He won the Pulitzer Prize for music in 1996. He was a superb pianist and an esteemed academic. His shelves and walls were overloaded with the awards and honorary degrees that go with a legendary career. He wrote around 100 pieces, and many of them have been recorded. Walker’s music is uncompromising. Like Bach, Stravinsky and Webern, he made music with a jeweler’s precision, and he didn’t wear his emotions on his sleeve. Like their music, his work demands — and magnificently rewards — deep listening. Netflix Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos told the Guardian Sunday, January 19, that the streaming giant is open to working with the royal couple in the future. “Who wouldn’t be interested? Yes, sure,” the television executive said when asked if Netflix would consider a possible deal with Harry, 35, and Meghan, 38. The couple’s potential Netflix opportunity follows their successful bid for voiceover work with Disney. The duchess landed a voiceover contract with the media conglomerate for an unspecified project after her husband vouched for her at the premiere of The Lion King in July 2019. Actor, director and producer Tyler Perry says his latest film, Netflix’s “A Fall from Grace,” was birthed out of his own experience clinging to his faith and prayer in times of pain and uncertainty. “I just want people to know that no matter how dark, no matter how bad, no matter how dismal the scene or situation you’re in, there’s still hope,” Perry told The Christian Post in sit-down interview in New York City. “I say that even from my own life, realizing that I was in some of the darkest times in my life and didn’t even know if I was going to make it. But as long as it held my faith and held on to hope and prayer and God and believing, it all came together.” https://youtu.be/9k_3wJJtFyY Gospel pioneer Kirk Franklin shared some advice he received for the new year while battling depression and anxiety amid a string of deaths among his friends. “[In] 2019, I experienced a high amount of loss in my life. I went to more funerals in 2019 than I’ve ever been to in my life. I went to the funerals of friends, the funerals of people’s parents and the funeral of people’s kids and it was a lot,” the performer shared on Instagram Friday. Franklin was a support to his pastor, Tony Evans, in the recent loss of his wife, Christian artist TobyMac, who buried his 21-year-old son, and others. The magnitude of loss surrounding Franklin took a toll on him and brought on anxiety. The gospel music trailblazer decided to jump on a call with his “godly” therapist while in the Dominican Republic, where he currently went to decompress. “I was just talking to him about being very anxious and very consumed with fear and worry and just the struggle with it all. He said, ‘When I begin to live a life of gratitude, more gratitude then I will begin to be more selfless because fear is rooted in self,” Franklin said. The Kansas City Chiefs are heading to the Super Bowl after winning the AFC Championship Sunday against the Tennessee Titans, 35-24. At the trophy presentation, Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt said, “I want to thank the Lord for blessing us, the Glory belongs to Him.” The star at the helm of the team is quarterback Patrick Mahomes who showed amazing poise last week to lead the Chiefs in an incredible comeback January 12 to defeat the Houston Texans, 51-31 and advance to the AFC Championship. Mahomes has been described as a man of humble faith in God, and his faith comes out from time to time in his tweets. A year after falling short with an overtime home loss to the New England Patriots in the AFC championship game, the Chiefs treated the Arrowhead Stadium faithful to a 35-24 victory Sunday over the Tennessee Titans. In so doing, Kansas City punched its ticket to the Super Bowl for the first time in the last 50 years. The stretch is the longest between two Super Bowl appearances for a single team in NFL history. A misdemeanor simple battery warrant for Cleveland Browns wide receiver and former LSU star Odell Beckham Jr. has been rescinded, the New Orleans Police Department confirmed Saturday. The warrant was issued Thursday as video posted on social media appeared to show Beckham swatting a security officer’s buttocks during LSU’s locker room victory celebration after Monday night’s college national championship game in the Superdome. “The security officer in the incident involving Odell Beckham Jr. has decided to drop the charge,” the department’s public information office said in an email. Beckham has also come under scrutiny over his apparent cash payments to Tigers players on the field after the game. Antonio Brown’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus is cutting ties with him until the free-agent wide receiver seeks counseling. Additionally, attorney Darren Heitner has removed himself as counsel for Brown in a 2018 landlord/tenant lawsuit involving the athlete throwing furniture off a balcony in a Florida luxury apartment complex. In recent days, the Hollywood Police have also ‘severed ties’ with Brown following an explicit outburst toward police. Brown recently posted a live feed of an obscene rant toward the mother of his children and the officers who responded to a domestic disturbance at his home. Shortly after the clip was posted, the Police Athletic League cut ties with Brown and announced plans to return his donation. The first trailer for Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani’s murder mystery romcom “The Lovebirds” has dropped, offering a glimpse of the onscreen couple’s wild journey after a date gone horribly wrong. https://youtu.be/YzPq8uVgLe8 Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton wants his now ex-baby mama/girlfriend, Kia Proctor, to take a DNA test to prove “their” 4 kids are his? Newton, sued Proctor for paternity, joint custody and visitation of their four children, Chosen 5, Sovereign-Dior, 3, Camida, 2, and Cashmere Saint, 3 months. It’s also interesting that Newton, 30, is the father of a child with La Reina Shaw, 33. That apparently went down while he was still with Proctor. According to court papers obtained ., Newton demanded a DNA test from Proctor, 31, for their youngest child, who was born in September and has never lived with the Carolina Panthers quarterback. Naughty By Nature’s Treach stopped by Power 105’s “The Breakfast Club” with his daughter Egypt to promote “Growing Up Hip Hop,” and he dropped some tea about his divorce from rapper Pepa of Salt-N-Pepa fame. They were together for 10 years, but their marriage only lasted a year. Treach claims they were in an open relationship that went horribly wrong. Apparently, he and Pepa made the mistake of having a girlfriend. “The real story about us – Treach & Pepa? First of all, what’s the number one cause for divorce?,” Treach asked. “Cheating,” DJ Envy and Charlamagne responded. “For the record, I never had to cheat on her,” Treach explained. “We had broads. I had a beautiful marriage,” he explained. ”When the girlfriend goes with the wife and then have their own*******,” he said. Apparently, Pepa and their girlfriend had threesomes with other people and Treach wasn’t down with that. I’m a man with two women,” Treach said. Meanwhile, his daughter is taking it all in with shock as this is the first time she’s hearing about this. It was previously reported… Pepa claims in her memoir that Treach abused her during the marriage, but the rapper claims this is simply not true, and Egypt defends him. NEXT WEEK, THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE WELCOME FAMED COMEDIANS KYM WHITLEY, DAVID ARNOLD AND MANY MORE! Yael Hilton is a powerful vocalist whose voice has caused videos of her singing to go viral and has aided her in amassing close to 50K followers on Instagram. A recent signee to eOne, Hilton is on track to become a recognized voice in the Gospel community. Her new single "He Loves Me" showcases her passion and powerful vocals that pierce through the ears and hearts of listeners. It's a feel good uptempo song with a retro vibe. As America gets ready to commemorate the 91st birthday of the late great Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., his daughter, Dr. Bernice King, is positioned to answer the call of her late father while simultaneously making it clear that our country could learn a lot from the highly revered leader. https://youtu.be/c4kxh0rj8-I TV One commemorates the 45th Anniversary of the trailblazing sitcom THE JEFFERSONS with a milestone marathon. Starting on Saturday, January 18 at 6 a.m. ET and running through Monday, January 20, ending at 6 a.m. ET, The Jeffersons marathon will showcase 96 fan-favorite episodes from the series debut to the finale. Rising singer and songwriter Darnell Moore is making his imprint on Gospel music. He is a young astute musician who has an easy-going spirit and worships with an authentic heart. Over the years, Darnell has toured internationally in a supporting role to other artists as a musician, music director, or vocal director. He recently returned from his first solo international tour of Italy in December to pre-promote his HOSANNA EP. HOSANNA is now available on all digital music and streaming outlets and marks the singer's first album/EP release. https://soundcloud.com/darnell-moore-1/hosanna Adrienne Houghton takes girl time to the next level when she sits down with her best friend Julissa Bermudez to chat about their fabulous friendship on ALL THINGS ADRIENNE WITH ADRIENNE HOUGHTON on Saturday, January 18 at 1 P.M. ET/ Encore at 11 P.M ET. The pair, who became fast friends while shooting a film early in their career, discuss their common background as New York natives, managing their on-screen careers, championing their Latin culture, and even their cellulite woes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4iOzeH4s5nI&feature=youtu.be Fifty years after Woody Woodriffe’s family suffered great tragedy, there is now a lasting tribute in New York City. The corner of Jefferson Avenue and Claver Place in Brooklyn is now known as FBI Special Agent Edwin R. Woodriffe Way. This high honor was bestowed upon Woody’s father, who was the first black FBI agent to be killed in the line of duty. Edwin and his partner Anthony Palmisano were gunned down in pursuit of a robbery suspect in 1969. At the time of his death, he was just 27 years old. Woody was six and his sister, Lee, was five. Two-time Academy Award® winner Denzel Washington will lend his talents and expertise to T.D. Jakes' International Leadership Summit this spring, a conference for visionaries, entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, pastors and leaders from all over the world, looking to expand their personal sphere of influence and sharpen their skills. Washington is expected to deliver a keynote address focused on Hollywood, faith and handling the spotlight. As an actor, producer and director, Washington is considered one of the greatest actors of this generation, receiving critical acclaim for films including Glory, Training Day, Malcolm X, The Hurricane, Remember the Titans and American Gangster. He received the Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2016 Golden Globe Awards, which is bestowed by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for "outstanding contributions to the world of entertainment." Most recently, Washington was honored with the AFI Life Achievement award, one of the highest honors for a career in film. Washington made his directorial debut in 2002 with the film Antwone Fisher, and directed The Great Debaters and Fences, which he starred in and received a nomination for Best Picture at the 2017 Academy Awards. TV ONE COMMEMORATES MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY BY HONORING AFRICAN AMERICAN LUMINARIES IN STAR-STUDDED ANNUAL URBAN ONE HONORS EVENT, CO-HOSTED BY CATHY HUGHES AND CHRIS TUCKER ON MONDAY, JANUARY 20 AT 8 P.M./7C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OdQ5lH3-zXo&feature=youtu.be Live from Tallahassee, Florida, it’s the “Black News Channel.” After more than a decade of planning, securing investors and several false starts, the launch of the 24-hour national cable news channel targeting black viewers now is set for Feb. 10. The network was hyped last year by a bevy of promotional appearances from California to New York. Black News Channel is the brainchild of former Republican U.S. Rep. J.C. Watts, who serves as chairman, and veteran television manager Bob Brillante as chief executive officer. Watts and Brillante announced the launch in November 2018 and spent the better part of last year shoring up a management team, leasing space, hiring studio designers and on-air talent, and pouring millions of dollars into renovating and outfitting a location. Grammy® Award nominated singer-songwriter and producer, VaShawn Mitchell, has assembled a dynamic new generation of worship leaders under the banner of the Gospel Heritage Conference. "Jehovah God (I Will Trust You)" is a powerful worship song led by the writer of the song, Madelyn Berry, who passionately takes the listener higher and higher in worship. https://spaces.hightail.com/space/eE916DTRee Just days before the nation commemorates the birth of Martin Luther King Jr., officials in Jefferson County announced plans to preserve and share a little known, yet significant piece of civil rights history sitting silently at the courthouse in downtown Birmingham.Jefferson County President Pro-Tem Lashunda Scales recently presented a unanimously approved resolution to memorialize and preserve the former county jail and its surviving cells located on the seventh floor inside the County Courthouse. It was on the seventh floor in late 1967 that King was confined following his arrest after getting off an airplane in Birmingham. This would become the last of his numerous arrests for civil disobedience, as the civil rights martyr was assassinated just months later on April 4, 1968. Before 1,000 people at the National Baptist Convention’s winter board meeting in Arlington, Joe Biden accused President Donald Trump of fanning the flames of hate. “I hear voices of intolerance singing the chorus of hate, exclusion and denial,” Biden said. The National Baptist Convention is the nation’s largest black Baptist Convention and dates to the 1880s. Biden said as President, he would work to bring the nation together. “Donald Trump’s poisonous and divisive politics we now have a tremendous opportunity because Americans have been awakened to how bad things are.” https://youtu.be/8RZID3p_mGI In November 2019, Liberation Station’s Black Lit Library finally settled into its new host location at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens. Located in the Doris Duke Center Classroom inside the Gardens visitor center, this library intends to provide a safe reading space for children of color. Liberation Station is a mobile children’s pop-up bookstore, offering over 500 thoughtfully curated titles centered on the representation of African American children with access to over 10,000 titles for distribution. Inspired by co-founder Victoria Scott-Miller’s difficult experience finding books that her own children of color could relate to, Liberation Station was created to glorify the black narrative and increase black representation in literature so that all children of color can find stories that accurately and positively reflect their own experiences. Lauren Daigle delighted a stadium full of fans when she sang the national anthem at the 2020 National Championship game between Clemson and Louisiana State University (LSU)https://www.facebook.com/wayfmradio/videos/576765596510087/ The Rock Hall Class of 2020 was unveiled Wednesday (Jan. 15) morning, with six artists and one behind-the-scenes player joining the storied ranks of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. And for many, the list – which includes four first-time nominees – will be fairly surprising. Depeche Mode, the Doobie Brothers, Whitney Houston, Nine Inch Nails, The Notorious B.I.G. and T. Rex will join the Rock Hall at the 35th annual induction ceremony, with Jon Landau (longtime industry manager who guided Bruce Springsteen’s career) and Irving Azoff (personal manager of the Eagles since 1974) earning the Ahmet Ertegun Award. Jonathan McReynolds enjoys his second #1 radio single from his groundbreaking album "Make Room". McReynolds is set to embark on a 3 show event in Los Angeles at The legendary Troubadour on 2.9, 3.15. If you're in LA you can still catch him on the last two dates! Sunday Best Starlet Latice Crawford's new single "Amazing"!! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5X9NzEH-nVo&feature=youtu.be The future Hall of Fame wide receiver signed a one-year contract with the Cardinals to play a 17th season, all with the only NFL team he has played for. The team announced the signing on Wednesday morning and did not disclose terms of Fitzgerald’s one-year deal, but he has earned $11 million in each of the past four seasons. Fitzgerald, 36, currently sits second on the NFL’s all-time receiving yards list (17,083) and receptions list (1,378), behind Hall of Fame receiver Jerry Rice. Fitzgerald is sixth on the NFL’s all-time touchdown receptions list with 120, eight behind fifth-place Marvin Harrison, another Hall of Famer. Fitzgerald was the only active receiver named to the NFL’s all-time team in December. Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly, fighting back tears in a video posted on social media, announced on Tuesday night his plans to retire from the NFL at age 28. “There’s only one way to play this game since I was a little kid — play fast, play physical and play strong,” Kuechly said. “And at this point I don’t know if I am able to do that anymore. That’s the part that is the most difficult.” “There’s only one way to play this game since I was a little kid — play fast, play physical and play strong,” Kuechly said. “And at this point I don’t know if I am able to do that anymore. That’s the part that is the most difficult.” Kuechly paused to gather his emotions. Kuechly didn’t explain exactly why he can’t play fast, physical and strong at this point in his career. What is known is that from 2015 to 2017, the 2013 NFL Defensive Player of the Year missed seven games due to concussions. Award-winning actor Harold Perrineau will receive The Bring To Life Award at The Jonathan Foundation’s 7th Annual Spring Fundraiser held on Saturday, May 16, 2020 at Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels, Los Angeles, CA.Screen Actors Guild Award Winner Harold Perrineau currently stars as “Dean Simms” on the hit TNT series Claws. Perrineau plays the Autistic brother to lead actress Niecy Nash, thus the reason for this award. He recently also starred opposite Queen Latifah in FOX series Star. On the feature roles include; Netflix hit Dumplin’ with Jennifer Aniston and Danielle MacDonald, Kathryn Bigelow's Academy Award-nominated Zero Dark Thirty; Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo + Juliet; The Matrix Reloaded And The Matrix Revolutions and The Best Man Holiday, for which he was nominated for an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor. His earlier tv credits include starring roles in the iconic ABC series Lost, for which he shared the SAG Award for Best Ensemble in 2004, and the groundbreaking HBO series OZ. Award-winning singer, author, Erica Campbell to offer a companion Bible reading plan to her critically and consumer acclaimed book, "More Than Pretty: Doing The Soul Work To Uncover Your True Beauty." Launching today, Campbell's devotional 5-Day Bible reading plan, “More Than Pretty,” is now available on all YouVersion BIBLE apps, and online. Inspired by topics from the book, Campbell offers soul-searching insights to help engage readers deeper into what the Word of God says about you. Universal Music Group Nashville said Monday that it has signed Chrissy Metz, a star on NBC’s ensemble smash TV series This Is Us. The news comes the same day that the Diane Warren-penned song “I’m Standing With You” sung by Metz in the film Breakthrough earned an Oscar nomination. Matthew A. Cherry was a wide receiver in the NFL who shuttled between practice squads and active roster for the Jacksonville Jaguars, Cincinnati Bengals, Carolina Panthers and Baltimore Ravens after he had a great college career with Akron. Since he left the league, he became a filmmaker who has directed music videos for some big names and some television shows. He also was an executive producer for Spike Lee’s BlackKklansman. Most recently, he created an animated short, Hair Love, that was a hit both on screen and on the New York Times Bestseller list thanks to a book adaptation. Monday, Hair Love was nominated for an Oscar, with the announcement coming from actress Issa Rae, who voiced the film. Democratic presidential candidate Andrew Yang gets a big endorsement from Dave Chappelle. The legendary comedian will stump for Yang with performances in South Carolina. Kanye West’s Sunday Service was a surprise sensation in 2019, and it appears will be picking right up where it left off as 2020 gets underway. Awaken 2020 is a large, free, stadium-sized event for Christians in Arizona that takes place annually at Sun Devil Stadium that promises the beginning of a spiritual awakening. It’s already a big event featuring big names in the Christian sphere, but when Kanye West announced he’d be bringing his Sunday Service choir in for a performance, interest went through the roof and the free event sold out to capacity in mere minutes. The sharp spike even crashed the website for a time. https://youtu.be/Cma6SBNv6-Q American director Spike Lee will lead the jury of this year’s Cannes Film Festival, the first black person to hold the post in the event’s 73-year history. Festival organizers hope Lee will “shake things up” among the world’s cinema elite at the festival which runs May 12-23. And anti-racism campaigners hope Lee’s appointment wakes up the French cultural world to persistent discrimination and the damaging stereotypes it perpetuates. Lee said he was “honored to be the first person of the African diaspora” chosen for the prestigious position. Festival organizer Thierry Fremaux said Lee is the first black president of any major film festival, calling the decision a “message of universality.” Damien Sneed’s 41+-City North American tour, “We Shall Overcome: A Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.” kicks off at Joe’s Pub, New York, NY Tuesday, January 14, 2020. In honor of Dr. King, the Sphinx Medal of Excellence recipient will bring his brand of classical, jazz, and sanctified soul to venues across the country during MLK holiday, Black History Month, and Women’s History Month. “We Shall Overcome” is a joyous celebration reflecting on the triumphant and victorious moments during our history. On Friday, January 17, 2020, Sneed will also release the deluxe edition of the 2019 CD, Damien Sneed: We Shall Overcome on his label, LeChateau Earl Records, which was established in 2009 to reflect his varied musical interests. Over the years, Kristie Anyabwile has found herself returning to Psalm 119 during her daily devotions. “The psalm itself is full of reminders of the beauty and the benefits of God’s Word,” she says. “It has always drawn me in. It not only encourages me, but it helps to whet my appetite more for God’s Word.” It was during one of these times of personal study that she birthed the idea for His Testimonies, My Heritage: Women of Color on the Word of God. The multiauthor book—which received an Award of Merit in this year’s Christianity Today Book Awards—explores the 22 stanzas of Psalm 119 through exposition, essays, and poetry. The faith-based film Breakthrough and two other faith-centric films received Oscar nominations Monday – a rare feat for a genre that rarely achieves mainstream attention. Breakthrough (PG) was nominated for Best Original Song for I’m Standing With You, which was written by Diane Warren and sung by Chrissy Metz, who also starred in the film. Two other faith-centric movies – Harriet (PG-13) and A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (PG) – also got Oscar nominations. Harriet received two nominations: Best Original Song (Stand Up, by Joshuah Brian Campbell and Cynthia Erivo) and Best Actress (Erivo). Erivo played the lead role of Harriet Tubman. Tom Hanks was nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Fred Rogers in A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood. Although A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood and Harriet aren’t categorized as Christian films on some movie websites, both were marketed to Christian audiences. The smooth and encouraging power ballad is a remembrance of God’s faithfulness, protection and provision. Jenkins will perform his Top 5 hit, “Can’t Turn Back” on the “Urban One Honors” Monday, January 20, on the TV One. LSU won its fourth national title Monday over Clemson, 42-25, in front of a hometown crowd at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans. Heisman winner Joe Burrow asserted himself as the best college football player in recent memory with another legendary performance (31-of-49, 463 passing yards, 58 rushing yards and six total touchdowns). The LSU defense stepped up in the second half, and Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence never found a groove as he lost his first game in college – and Clemson fell for the first time in two seasons and saw it’s 29-game winning streak snapped. LSU won the College Football National Championship last night beating Clemson. Joe Burrow has been incredible all season long. One former Ohio State Buckeye and current New Orleans Saints WR is a believer in the 2019 Heisman winner. Michael Thomas sent a message to Burrow ahead of last nights title game. Louisiana needs a championship. And I’m excited to witness my boy @Joe_Burrow10 bring them one. One of the greatest motivational stories in sports for young athletes you have to respect it! It’s awesome to see in-state athletes supporting each other. Burrow certainly has the respect and support of Thomas – a former Buckeye. Tyler Perry believes that no matter what you think of him, performers like Crystal Fox and stars of his OWN network TV series “The Haves and Haves Nots, Tika Sumpter and Angela Robinson have been snubbed by the NAACP Image awards for years. Dwayne Johnson is slated to appear in every episode of an upcoming NBC series based on his life titled “Young Rock.” The series will track the former WWE star’s formative years. Johnson recently starred in HBO comedy “Ballers” and last month’s “Jumanji: The Next Level.” His upcoming film projects include “Jungle Cruise” and DC Comics villain “Black Adam.” Houston Hogg, one of four African-American football players at Kentucky who helped break the Southeastern Conference color line in the late 1960s, has died. He was 71. The school announced Friday that Hogg died in Owensboro, Kentucky. The former Wildcats running back and defensive back entered Kentucky with Wilbur Hackett in 1967, a year after Nate Northington and Greg Page arrived in Lexington to become the first black players to enroll at an SEC school. Hogg played freshman football that season, when Northington made his historic varsity debut for the Wildcats on Sept. 23, 1967, and played his first SEC game a week later against Mississippi. Northington’s SEC debut came a day after Page died from a neck injury sustained in practice that summer. Hogg rushed 92 times for 245 yards two touchdowns in his career and lettered in 1969 and 1970. He and his three teammates were honored for their groundbreaking courage and achievements in September 2016 with a statue outside the Wildcats’ training facility. In 1886, an African American domestic worker was accused of poisoning her white employer in Jackson, Tennessee. A mob broke into the city’s jail, dragged Eliza Woods to the courthouse lawn, ripped her clothes off, and hanged her from a tree. Her body was riddled with bullets, historians say. Five years later, John Brown was accused of severely injuring a switchman on an Illinois Central Railroad train. Brown, a black man, was removed from the train in Jackson and jailed. An angry mob of 500 masked men armed with rifles forcibly took him from the jail – and he, too, was lynched on the courthouse lawn. Both stories had gone mostly ignored in Jackson until last year, when a college professor and a coalition of church leaders, educators and private citizens led a movement to memorialize both lynchings with a historical marker on the Madison County courthouse lawn. The 21st Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration is bringing Inspiration to the BIGGEST Game on Earth. Catch the Spirit of Super Bowl LIV with star-studded musical jubilation at the LIVE BET TV show taping Thursday, January. 30 at the James L. Knight Center, Miami, Florida. TRAVIS GREEN, LE'ANDRIA JOHNSON, COMMISSIONED REUNION, THE NFL PLAYERS CHOIR and more. JASON CHAMPION in 2009 first solo album "Reflections" received industry recognition by the Recording Academy, earning him his first Grammy Nomination for Best Gospel Album of the Year. Champion’s single "Always" went on to reach #1 on the Gospel Single Charts. Jason Champion prepares for this next chapter in his life, signing with My Block Records and preparing for the initial offering on this label entitled "Until Forever". https://www.dropbox.com/sh/f43byky7qplsgo7/AADHzGwn79AGj6wt_GbUmrxva?dl=0 Rainbow PUSH founder and legendary civil rights leader, Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., will host MLK national holiday at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, January 20, 2020 at historic Fox Theater in Detroit. The prestigious Let Freedom Ring Awards will be bestowed on four remarkable individuals whose work has promoted and protected freedom, opportunity, fairness and dignity, thus furthering the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The recipients include UAW President Rory Gamble, first African American to lead the labor union, and Maureen Taylor, chair of the Michigan Welfare Rights Organization. The Detroit News editor and publisher, Jonathan Wolman, who will be posthumously honored as well as Congressman John Conyers, Jr. will receive posthumously the inaugural Legacy Award. Tim Johnson "Your Grace" A Powerful Song With A Powerful and Emotional Performance...https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OsoJv-YMi3M Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated will mark its 100th year of service with Centennial Week activities Jan. 12-18, 2020 in Washington, D.C. Valerie Hollingsworth Baker, Zeta’s International Centennial President, will kick off the week by unveiling an exclusive line of Zeta-inspired St. John apparel, followed by activities featuring Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, attorney and Zeta member Anita Hill, former Congresswoman and Zeta member Donna Edwards, award-winning journalist April Ryan, Vivica A. Fox, actor Lamman Rucker; R&B artist Raheem DeVaughn, R&B artist and Zeta member Syleena Johnson, plus performances by The Chuck Brown Band, Zeta member DJ Poizon Ivy & DJ Heat and the Zeta International Choir. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JnugkOQZn1U&feature=youtu.be Internationally celebrated, multiple award-winning Gospel recording artist Marvin Sapp has a new music project slated for later this year that he will record live at his new church, The Chosen Vessel Cathedral in Fort Worth, Texas. The recording is set for Friday, February 21st and will reunite Sapp with his musical masterminds – producer Aaron Lindsey and vocal director Myron Butler. Tentatively titled The Chosen Vessel, this album will be the follow up to Sapp’s 2017 release, Close. This will be Sapp’s first live recording since I Win, which was recorded live in 2011. Grammy Award-winning artist TobyMac released a song Friday dedicated to his late son, Truett Foster McKeehan, titled “21 Years.” The song is an “honest” letter from the artist to his 21-year-old first-born who died unexpectedly at his home on Oct. 23, 2019. https://youtu.be/eSV-pRGbg4k Pastor John P. Kee continues to tour the country sharing his chart topping single “I Made It Out”. “I Made It Out” has been nominated for an NAACP Image Award for “Outstanding Gospel/Christian Song (Traditional or Contemporary)”! URBAN ONE FOUNDER AND CHAIRWOMAN CATHY HUGHES JOINS THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE NEXT WEEK ALONG WITH TV HOST EGYPT SHERROD, COMEDIAN MARK CURRY AND MORE! Multiple award-winner, singer, songwriter, and author Erica Campbell recognized with two NAACP Image Award nominations announced yesterday. Campbell’s debut book, “More Than Pretty: Doing The Soul Work To Uncover Your True Beauty," was nominated in two literature categories: Outstanding Literary Work - Instructional and Outstanding Literary Work - Debut Author. Campbell also earned a third nomination as part of the newly revamped “Sunday Best” on BET, which was recognized in the Outstanding Reality Program/Reality Competition Series/Game Show category. Award winning Law Enforcement Officer, Pastor and national recording artist Marcus Jordan releases highly anticipated single titled "I Can". "I Can" has been dubbed by many to be the new inspirational anthem of the year. An empowering song, with smooth melodies, lyrics and gripping message, the new single catches the listeners ear in the first few seconds. https://ecp.yusercontent.com/mail?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgallery.mailchimp.com%2Fvideo_thumbnails_new%2F72ecff4a81125490c5912558db4bce6a.png&t=1578751751&ymreqid=578bcfd1-325e-b178-2f07-440016010000&sig=OcQBkJGYBwyvIvHZixZ4jw--~C Oprah Winfrey will no longer executive produce an upcoming documentary about a woman who accused music mogul Russell Simmons of sexual misconduct, and the film will no longer appear on Apple TV+, Winfrey told TheWrap in a statement. The untitled film from Kirby Dick and Amy Ziering follows music executive Drew Dixon and how her life changed after she accused Simmons of rape and entered the #MeToo movement. The Def Jam Records co-founder has denied the accusations. The film is set to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival later this month, but Winfrey felt the film was not ready to be screened at the festival and left the project. Oprah Winfrey has denied claims she advised the Duke and Duchess of Sussex on their bombshell decision to step back as senior royals. The TV star, who is a friend of Meghan Markle and her mother Doria Ragland, was reported yesterday to have been the ‘first person’ to discuss ‘breaking free’ from the Royal Family with the couple. An insider added that Oprah, 65, had encouraged the pair to ‘do their own thing’ and ‘build their own brand’ in North America. Royal sources claimed yesterday that Prince Harry had ignored crystal-clear orders from the Queen on the subject, after she instructed him not to make an announcement about his future plans at this time. RCA Inspiration celebrates two nominations for the 51st NAACP Image Awards®, with hit-making Gospel icons Kirk Franklin and Donnie McClurkin garnering nods. Kirk Franklin’s single “Love Theory” and Donnie McClurkin’s single “Not Yet” are nominated in the category of Outstanding Gospel/Christian Song (Traditional or Contemporary), for the 2020 awards show. The multiple award-winning Gospel superstars also penned the hit songs, which are featured off of their latest 2019 releases, Franklin’s acclaimed thirteenth studio album LONG LIVE LOVE, and McClurkin’s acclaimed eighth solo album A DIFFERENT SONG. The 51STNAACP Image Awards® will air live from Los Angeles Saturday, February 22, 2020 on BET at 8 PM/7C. Today, the NFL announced two-time Grammy award-winning emcee LECRAE as the third artist to be featured in its “Songs of the Season” series. Lecrae’s “Get Back Right,” which is off his album, Let the Trap Say Amen, will be heard throughout the NFL playoffs across several telecasts. Lecrae Shares His Reaction To His Song Being Named As One Of NFL's Songs Of The Season. LIVE interview on NFL Networks’ “Good Morning Football.” https://youtu.be/NfivK7eoRrQ The 28th Annual Bounce Trumpet Awards premieres Sunday, January 12 at 9:00 p.m. ET on Bounce. Hosted by EMMY® Award-winning comedian, actress and writer Wanda Sykes, the gala black-tie event, taking place for the first time in Hollywood. 28th Annual Bounce Trumpet Award honorees are Martin Lawrence, Cedric the Entertainer, Marsai Martin, Ambassador Andrew Young, Hydeia Broadbent and Phylicia Fant. Restaurateur, Shema Fulton & R&B/Country Music songstress K. Michelle are hosting a weekly restaurant pop up dining experience at Garden Parc on Cascade Avenue each Saturday of the month beginning, January 18. This dynamic duo will be a merger of Fulton’s, Pearl Restaurant and Lounge and Puff & Petals, in which she co-owns with K. Michelle. The menu features delectable tapas and specialty cocktails in a high energy entertainment-based environment. The annual URBAN ONE HONORS event will premiere on Monday, January 20 - the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday - at 8 P.M./7C on TV One. Co-hosted by Urban One Founder and Chairwoman Cathy Hughes and actor Chris Tucker, the star-studded event celebrates the 40-year legacy of Radio One and honors some of the biggest names in film, television and music. In addition to the telecast, TV One will air REPRESENT: 40 YEARS OF NURTURING CHANGE WITH CATHY HUGHES, sponsored by Lexus, immediately preceding the show at 7 P.M. ET/6C. Hosted by Hughes, the TV One special features in-depth one-on-one conversations with actor Billy Porter and activist Rev. Al Sharpton, highlighting their lasting impact on black culture. https://vimeo.com/383639626 Demetrius West & Jesus Promoters!! Coming off the success of their #2 Radio hit, “Open the Floodgates”, Stellar Award Nominees Demetrius West and Jesus Promoters (JP) return with a new single entitled, “I’m Next.” https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/35eOzoTcgZVl8lNtfRpDK Kanye West plans to bring his Sunday Service gospel shows to the rest of the world, according to reports. The rapper, 42, has hosted weekly gospel performances across the United States and beyond since January 2019. With successes in Coachella and even Jamaica, the star reportedly wants to expand his horizons for 2020. The star’s expansion efforts will focus on Europe and Africa this year, sources close to Kanye told TMZ. The gossip site also says he is going to create another gospel album, after releasing Jesus is Born Christmas last year. Kanye also released his Christian-inspired solo album, Jesus is King, in September. His Sunday Service shows are attended by masses of A-Listers, with the Kardashian-Jenner clan, Brad Pitt and Robert Cooper all visiting at one point. The Dallas Cowboys officially introduced Mike McCarthy as their new head coach at a press conference here at the The Star in Frisco – the media turnout being so large that the team shifted the session from the usual press area to the lobby of the larger Ford Center – and McCarthy and team owner Jerry Jones opened by exchanging pleasantries. https://youtu.be/lXk1bP4HE8c Gospel artist Michele Sweeting has been leaving believers burning with a heart for God for years now. The gifted psalmist and worship leader, known as “The New York City Song Bird”, delivers unforgettable performances with a passion rarely seen in Gospel music. Uplifting souls from the church house to the jailhouse, she sees music as a vehicle to share the good news of the Savior. Fans of the artist became acquainted with the powerhouse vocalist years ago with her debut single, “Center of My Joy”, a rendition of the Richard Smallwood classic. Since that time, she’s provided the Gospel music community with one memorable song after another. Now, she is prepared to set souls ablaze again with her brand new single, “Flame”, an inspiring praise song about the fire of God. “Flame” is currently available on Apple Music, Amazon, Google Play and other digital music outlets. There’s light at the end of the tunnel for Morris Brown College after settling a $4 million debt with the African Methodist Episcopal Church on Monday night. The vote by the executive committee of the general board of the AME Church in favor of forgiving the debt, along with any interest owed, improves the HBCU’s chances of earning back their accreditation, which was revoked in the the early 2000s after financial mismanagement. The relief comes as part of a deal that will have Morris Brown College create a $1.5 million scholarship program for AME church members. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com The Seattle Seahawks scored a super-sized shot in Philadelphia. Throughout the year, several players have showed a higher priority over tackles and scorecards: a love for God and for people. CBN reported that during the recent contentious game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz was injured after a helmet-to-helmet hit and taken out of the game. After the Seahawks’ win over Wentz’s team, Seahawk quarterback Russell Wilson sought out the opposing team’s coach to give him a hug and inquire after Wentz. Wilson has always been open about his Christian faith. He chose the number three on his jersey to “honor the Holy Trinity” and visits the Seattle Children’s Hospital every week on his day off. James Fortune helps the Rickey Smiley Morning Show kick off it's first show at the Reach Media Headquarters in Dallas, TX on 1.6.20 in their new studio, formerly the home of the Tom Joyner Morning Show. https://t.e2ma.net/click/2uw1xe/6xxz05b/qxmejz Award-winning inspirational hip-hop artist Lecrae announced his upcoming appearance at The Atlanta Hawks annual MLK Day Game. “I’m excited to take the court with Atlanta’s finest. I want the city to come celebrate MLK Day with me and the Hawks,” said Lecrae. “I’m honored to celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. on a historic day.” The Grammy® Award recipient will be performing at both halftime and postgame when The Hawks take on the Toronto Raptors on Monday, Jan. 20. Tyler Perry fans are urging him to hire Black writers after he revealed on Twitter that he doesn’t utilize the common industry practice of writers rooms, instead, he writes all of his scripts on his own. “So, I don’t know if you know this, but all shows on television have a writers room,” Perry said in a post shared on Instagram and Twitter-showing a stack of scripts. “And, most of the time, there are 10 people or 12 or whatever that write on these television shows. Well, I have no writers room. Nobody writes any of my work. I write it all. Why am I telling you this? I wrote all of these scripts by myself in 2019. Work ethic!”Many TP fans have been critical of his approach, noting that instead of bragging about his often lackluster and stereotypical narratives, he should flex his power by hiring Black writers who will add fresh perspectives to his characters. Last night (01-06-20), Kobe Bryant hosted a special community screening for “Just Mercy” at the Cinemark in the Baldwin Hills section of Los Angeles. Stars of the film, Jamie Foxx, Michael B. Jordan, Brie Larson, O’Shea Jackson Jr., Karan Kendrick and author and executive producer Bryan Stevenson attended, along with Terrence J. The inspiring drama brings one of the most important stories of our time to the big screen. Award-winning filmmaker Destin Daniel Cretton directed the film from a screenplay he co-wrote, based on the award-winning nonfiction bestseller by Stevenson. Through prayers, praise and unabashed declarations Sunday, Pastor John Gray and his team of ministry leaders at Relentless Church in South Carolina displayed a united front just days after Redemption Church founders Ron and Hope Carpenter asked a local court to evict them from their church building. John Gray was given until the end of 2019 to vacate the property by the Carpenters amid allegations that he had been “shady” and “dishonest” in executing a transfer agreement after they passed the reins of their Redemption Church to him in 2018. The church was rebranded as Relentless Church. Janette…ikz, known for her spoken word performances, released a new album in December titled Not My Own, and one song is called “All of Me.” A raw, vulnerable piece about turning from sin that leads to death, the song begs the question: Once we meet Jesus, will we surrender everything? https://youtu.be/EiUxy9nDVsE A Celebration of Life for Loris Evans..........https://youtu.be/EUVN7sv9OXY There is a new generation of anointed Gospel artists on the rise and Edwrin Sutton is believed to be one of the next leading young voices in this new emergence. The powerful message of his single, “I HEAR RAIN” which was produced by chart-topping and Stellar Award nominated Demetrius West. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IfylJzo54d4&feature=youtu.be The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel coming to Lifetime this spring: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXAEIwSMulU&feature=youtu.be Jacky Clark drops new single featuring Mary J. Blige "Feel Good." Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins earned his first-ever playoff victory Sunday afternoon, which for now silences his critics who have long claimed he can’t win a big game. Shortly after throwing the game-winning touchdown in overtime to defeat the New Orleans Saints in their own stadium, Cousins was interviewed on the field by Fox Sports’ Chris Myers about the thrilling upset victory. https://youtu.be/8gWxqqKashQ Tua Tagovailoa formally declared for the NFL Draft, forgoing his senior season at Alabama. Except the decision clearly wasn’t that easy after watching Alabama’s forever quarterback at the podium. “These kind of things don’t take the doctors, don’t really take myself [in account],” Tagovailoa said. “It really boils down to one thing: faith. Coming from a family that has a lot of it, I’m willing to take that challenge.” Earnest Pugh drops new single "God Wants To Heal You" for 2020. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdw-JR1jBqM&feature=youtu.be She kicked off her 2020 Vision: Your Life In Focus Tour on Saturday in Florida. And gracing Oprah’s, 65, national tour as the first guest, was none other than ‘the incomparable’ Lady Gaga. The 33-year-old took to the stage where she candidly opened up to the 15,000 person crowd about her PTSD after being raped, bringing the talk-show queen to tears. Gaga, who suffers from fibromyalgia, revealed that even during the hour-long chat she was in ‘head-to-toe pain,’ according to Rolling Stone. ‘What’s interesting about it is that I’ve found through neuropsych research and my relationship with my doctors that fibromyalgia can be treated through mental health therapy,’ she shared. Bri Babineaux drops single "Baptize Us Again." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0lEDyZcagY&feature=youtu.be Beyonce and Jay Z were at the Golden Globes Sunday night, but they were an HOUR late. After skipping the red carpet, Beyonce tried to sneak into the ceremony with Jay-Z unnoticed, but of course, the iconic couple turned every head in the room as they turned up an hour into proceedings. They were accompanied by their bodyguard, who appeared to carry their own bottles of Ace of Spades champagne. A new decade brings new voices with a message of healing. Meet Staci Brown and her new single "Healer." Reach Media Inc.’s nationally syndicated Rickey Smiley Morning Show debuts as an Urban AC morning show at the start of the new year, airing weekdays from 6a-10a ET. The Rickey Smiley Morning Show is quick-paced and anchored by one of the nation’s most popular comedians. Easily entertaining a wide variety of listeners, the “can’t miss a minute” morning show perfectly blends music, exclusive comedy and spiritual entertainment with today’s hottest topics in news, entertainment and sports. Rickey Smiley was recognized by the National Association of Broadcasters in 2017 as recipient of the Marconi award for “Top National/Syndicated Talent.” The Cowboys, after a long week of uncertainty, announced Sunday evening that Jason Garrett will not be extended. No, the official statement from Jerry Jones did not say the Cowboys were firing—or even terminating—their head coach of the last decade. But for the first time in more than 12 years, Jason Garrett is no longer an employee of the Dallas Cowboys. Cowboys set to name former Green Bay Packers Head Coach Mike McCarthy as new head coach. For years gospel artists like Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary and rapper Lecrae have led the way creating inspirational music that both moves our feet and lifts our spirits. Now out of Brooklyn N.Y. comes lead singer Michael Moore feat. Shamyra Smith, The GSS Chorallettes & rapper Dre Rumble who are a new generation of gospel singers, with a powerful urban anthem of faith in God that asks the question "Do You Believe?" Checkout "I Believe." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2J0JJTdCtA&feature=youtu.be&utm_source=I+Believe+by+Michael+Moore+GSS+Chorallettes+Jan+3%2C+2020&utm_campaign=New+Music&utm_medium=email In a videotaped message to his congregation Sunday, The Relentless Church Pastor John Gray vowed to “maintain the moral high ground” in an eviction dispute with Redemption Church. Gray’s comments were part of a 2 1/2-minute video that was played during Sunday’s early service at the Greenville-based megachurch. The Greenville News watched an online broadcast of the service. blob:https://uw-media.greenvilleonline.com/b0709872-b957-4fa0-9741-26842b7565bc Iran has placed an $80million bounty on Donald Trump’s head and threatened to attack the White House in response to the president’s warning that any strike on American interests in the region will bring massive retaliation. An organizer for a funeral procession for General Qassem Soleimani called on all Iranians to donate $1 each ‘in order to gather an $80million bounty on President Trump’s head’. The organizer made the remarks during the procession in Mashad. Redemption Church filed for eviction against The Relentless Church in Greenville on Thursday, just over a month after Redemption terminated its lease agreement with the megachurch run by Pastor John Gray and told the church to vacate the property owned by Redemption by the end of the year. The court filing asks for an application of ejectment and says Relentless breached its lease agreement because it failed to make all payments to cover the costs of the sanctuary and The Imagine Center, the sports and fitness facility operated on the church campus. In a written statement emailed Thursday night, Gray said Relentless would address the matter through appropriate legal channels. The daughter of a church deacon who was gunned down at the weekend has chosen to forgive her father’s killer. Anton “Tony” Wallace, a 64-year-old registered nurse, was shot dead at West Freeway Church of Christ Sunday after an armed man entered the church and opened fire on parishioners. Wallace’s life was cruelly taken as he served communion to his fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. His daughter Tiffany Wallace told NBC News that the church would have looked to welcome the disturbed gunman with open arms if he was in need. “Food, shelter, we would give it to him — whatever he needed,” she said. blob:https://www.nbcdfw.com/94a47d47-a35a-46e3-b163-0006a36e90b4 Jason Garrett’s time with the Dallas Cowboys is coming to an end. A source told ESPN’s Ed Werder that after showing an “abundance of care and respect” for Garrett, team owner/general manager Jerry Jones and executive vice president Stephen Jones have decided the coach will not be part of the organization moving forward. According to multiple sources, the Joneses and Garrett did not have their scheduled meeting at The Star on Thursday after meeting on Monday and Tuesday without any resolution on the coach’s status. Garrett’s contract is set to expire on Jan. 14 and his status with the team has been uncertain since last February, when the Cowboys opted not to offer him an extension. THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE KICK OFF THE NEW YEAR WITH ACTORS ROTIMI, BRIAN JORDAN, JR., RELATIONSHIP EXPERT TRACY MCMILLAN, ED GORDON AND MORE AS PART OF 2020 TRANSFORMATION WEEK. Leon Spinks, the one-time heavyweight champion boxer, is suffering from prostate cancer that has spread to his bladder, his wife told USA TODAY Sports Thursday by text message. Spinks, 66, was diagnosed in May and on Christmas Eve discharged from a Las Vegas hospital, according to Brenda Spinks, who said the boxer has returned to the couple’s home in Henderson, Nevada. He will resume cancer treatment on an outpatient basis, Brenda Spinks said. When Jake Fromm, Georgia Bulldogs Quarterback, revealed his New Year’s resolution for 2020, the touching moment took ESPN reporter Holly Rowe by surprise. The Christian young man is dedicating his efforts to leading more people to Jesus! As a junior at the University of Georgia, Jake Fromm is hailed as one of the top quarterbacks in college football. And his talents on the field are gaining him a lot of attention. But there’s something else that truly makes Jake special — his love for Jesus! Pastor David Wright & NY Fellowship Mass Choir has released a new single entitled, "Mighty Long Way" featuring Keith "Wonderboy" Johnson. This collaboration gives you an awesome choir song with a quartet feel. https://www.dropbox.com/s/w0hocxjeuswg0nm/Pastor%20David%20Wright%20%26%20NY%20Fellowship%20Choir%20Mighty%20Long%20Way%20feat%20Keith%20Wonderboy%20Johnson%20.mp3?dl=0 The Gospel music industry is filled with family groups singing songs for praises to the Lord including The Clark Sisters, The Hawkins Family and The Pace Sisters. Another family group has just hit the sacred music scene with a mission to inspire through song. R.E.I.G.N., consisting of a variety of family members including father and son, niece and uncle and a few cousins, is recognized for their tight harmonies, moving songs and spirited performances. Previously known as Remnant, they are remembered for opening up for popular acts such as Lee Williams & The Spiritual QC’s, The Williams Brothers, Harvey Watkins & The Canton Spirituals and Jason Nelson. Now Remnant is R.E.I.G.N., with a new name and a new mission. Flowing in their season of “new”, they also have a new, just-released single called “Leanin’” featuring Tia Singleton. The track is currently available on iTunes, Google Play and Amazon. Minnesota rapper Lexii Alijai died on New Year’s Day, distraught loved ones confirmed on social media. Alijai, 21, whose full name is Alexis Alijai Lynch, was the granddaughter of singer-songwriter Roger Troutman. She carved out a name for herself in the industry — building a large following on Soundcloud, Instagram and YouTube before releasing her debut full-length album, “Growing Pains,” in September 2017. Alijai collaborated with California singer-songwriter Kehlani on her singles “Jealous” and “You Should Be Here,” which was nominated for a Grammy. The USA TODAY Sports college football staff picked the 10 best players of the 2010s. From quarterbacks to defensive tackles, here are the stars we'll remember: 1. Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson (2014-16), 2. Auburn quarterback Cam Newton (2010), 3. Penn State running back Saquon Barkley (2015-17), 4. Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield (2013-17), 5. Notre Dame linebacker Manti Te'o (2009-12), 6. Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (2017-19), 7. Ohio State defensive lineman Joey Bosa (2013-15), 8. Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston (2013-14), 9. Pittsburgh defensive lineman Aaron Donald (2010-13), 10. Oklahoma State wide receiver Justin Blackmon (2009-11). David Stern, the basketball-loving lawyer who took the NBA around the world during 30 years as its longest-serving commissioner and oversaw its growth into a global powerhouse, died Wednesday. He was 77. Stern suffered a brain hemorrhage on Dec. 12 and underwent emergency surgery. The league said he died with his wife, Dianne, and their family at his bedside. "The entire basketball community is heartbroken," the National Basketball Players Association said. "David Stern earned and deserved inclusion in our land of giants." Sources said Nick Gordon, 30, had a series of heart attacks after he was rushed into intensive care during New Year’s Eve celebrations. His loved ones were informed of his death earlier today after doctors were unable to revive the prolific drug abuser. Gordon is notorious for the 2015 death of Whitney Houston’s daughter Bobbi Kristina, who spent six months in a coma after she was found unconscious in a bathtub with a slew of drugs in her system. Funeral for Lois Evans will be Monday, January 6 11:00 a.m. at the Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Dallas, TX. Ways you can help the Evans family during this time:~ Pray for Dr. Evans and the entire Evans family.~ Send cards of encouragement to Dr. Tony Evans or any member of the Evans family to: c/o Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship, 1808 W. Camp Wisdom, Dallas, TX 75232. After just a day-and-a-half of tracking after its Christmas Day release, Kanye West‘s second spiritually-based project, Jesus Is Born, credited to the Sunday Service Choir, enters the Top Gospel Albums chart (dated Jan. 4, 2020) at No. 2. The set starts with 6,000 equivalent album units earned (3,000 in album sales) in the week ending Dec. 26, according to Nielsen Music. As West had teased, the album was released Dec. 25, arriving on DSPs at 3 p.m. ET that day. West’s first faith-based album, Jesus Is King, debuted at No. 1 on Top Gospel Albums, as well as Top Christian Albums, the all-genre Billboard 200, Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums and Top Rap Albums on the charts dated Nov. 9 (with 264,000 units). It became the first set ever to lead all five of those rankings. With 10 of the album’s tracks, West also made history by becoming the first artist to rank at Nos. 1 through 10 on the streaming-, airplay- and sales-based Hot Christian Songs and Hot Gospel Songs charts that week. This week, Jesus Is King rules Top Gospel Albums for a ninth week, with 11,000 units. The Philadelphia Eagles announced Tuesday they have signed running back Elijah Holyfield, son of legendary boxer Evander Holyfield. Elijah Holyfield played for the Georgia Bulldogs from 2016-2018 and went undrafted before joining the Carolina Panthers’ practice squad this past summer. The 22-year-old is 5-foot-10 and rushed for over 1,000 yards as a junior in Athens in 2018.The Philadelphia Eagles announced Tuesday they have signed running back Elijah Holyfield, son of legendary boxer Evander Holyfield. Elijah Holyfield played for the Georgia Bulldogs from 2016-2018 and went undrafted before joining the Carolina Panthers’ practice squad this past summer. The 22-year-old is 5-foot-10 and rushed for over 1,000 yards as a junior in Athens in 2018. Dr. Tony Evans, senior pastor and founder of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship, announced via social media that his wife Lois, 70, went home to Heaven on the morning of Dec. 30. This was her second round of biliary cancer, according to Evans.' In a moving tribute, Evans wrote that Lois was surrounded by family, including the couple’s four children, when she passed away. The Legacy of a Kingdom Woman by Sister Lois Evans Who Just Went Home to be With the Lord, December 30, 2019 –She Being Dead Yet Speaketh. https://youtu.be/NJtyO79Dy80 A Washington D.C. elementary school has come under fire for asking black fifth grade students to portray slaves during a lesson about the Civil War and Reconstruction era. The incident took place at Lafayette Elementary School in the Chevy Chase neighborhood where a class was asked to wrap up a series of lessons on the Civil War by creating a dramatic reading or podcast. Students broke off into groups for the assignment, which asked students to portray an enslaved person and a person of color drinking from a segregated water fountain. Principal Carrie Broquard sent a letter to parents apologizing for the offensive incident saying the learning exercise won’t be used in the future, according to the Washington Post. Jameis Winston — throughout his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he’s been remarkably consistent. The first overall pick in the 2015 draft out of Florida State, Winston made his NFL debut against the Titans. Winston’s first throw of the day was an attempt to receiver Adam Humphries that was intercepted and returned for a touchdown. Winston’s final throw of the 2019 season, the one that put the game away for the Falcons in a 28-22 overtime win, was a pass intended for tight end Cameron Brate that was intercepted and returned for a touchdown. The closest any quarterback has come to the 30/30 mark before is Lynn Dickey of the 1983 Packers, who threw 32 touchdowns and 29 picks. The gunman in Sunday’s church shooting in Texas has been identified as 43-year-old Keith Thomas Kinnunen. It remains unclear what his motive was, but he opened fire at the West Freeway Church in Fort Worth on Sunday. He was first named by NBC Dallas Fort Worth. Kinnunen had a criminal past which involved arrests for theft and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. He killed two people – a security guard and a grandfather who had just handed out communion – before being brought down by former FBI agent Jack Wilson, 70. The Hanukkah stabbing suspect accused of attacking five people with a machete at a rabbi’s home has been charged with federal hate crimes after handwritten journals containing references to Jews and anti-Semitism were found in his house. Grafton E. Thomas, 37, was expected to appear in federal court in White Plains on Monday to face the hate crime charges as new footage emerged of him calmly strolling through a New York City bodega just moments before his arrest. Thomas, who is accused of carrying out the bloodied attack on Sunday night on the seventh night of Hanukkah, is charged with five counts of obstructing the free exercise of religious beliefs by attempting to kill with a dangerous weapon and causing injuries. He had already been charged with five counts of attempted murder and one count of burglary. Clemson’s star quarterback Trevor Lawrence, outspoken on his Christian faith, is an experienced champion who found himself facing an uphill battle on Saturday night. In the second quarter of Saturday night’s playoff game, down 16-0 to an Ohio State team that showed no signs of slowing down, a potential loss is what he and his teammates were facing. While viewers may have counted them out, Lawrence was fired up and ready to lead his team to victory. Trevor Lawrence and the Clemson Tigers continued on their path toward victory, leading 29-23, the Tigers sealed the deal with an interception in the Ohio State end zone. Set to face LSU, the Clemson Tigers will, for a second year in a row, be going to the National Championship game. When asked about his team’s incredible win and his performance, Lawrence first and foremost pointed to scripture and his teammates: “I have Ephesians 3:20, and it says, ‘God can do immeasurably more than any of us can because of Him within us.’ And that’s just so true. I mean, all of us, me, what we did tonight, it ain’t us. It’s about this program and who we are.” Civil rights icon and US Democratic Rep. John Lewis of Georgia has been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, his office announced Sunday. Lewis, 79, said he was diagnosed following a routine medical visit with subsequent tests that reconfirmed the diagnosis. The long-time Georgia congressman will undergo treatment for the cancer. Lewis, who is in his 17th term as a member of Congress, is vowing to continue his work, stating that he’ll return to Washington in the coming days to begin his treatment plan, which will last several weeks. Joining the ranks of Kanye West with Christmas announcements for their fans, Justin Bieber shared exciting news with fans on Christmas Eve. In a video he shared on social media with the hashtag BIEBER2020, Bieber teased a new song, “Yummy,” that will be released on January 3rd as part of a full studio album. He also revealed upcoming tour dates and a docuseries. On the video, Justin said, “As humans, we are imperfect. My past, my mistakes, all the things that I’ve been through, I believe that I’m right where I’m supposed to be and God has me right where he wants me. I feel like this is different than the previous albums just because of where I’m at in my life. I’m excited to perform it and to tour it. We all have different stories. I’m just excited to share mine.” Hollywood actor Tom Selleck is known for his iconic role as Magnum P.I. but many don’t know that he attributes his accomplishments to Jesus Christ. The 74-year-old admits that his journey as a Christian has been shaky over the years, according to Belief Net. Selleck was a business major and planned to work for United Airlines after college. He starred in several commercials and was offered an acting contract with Twentieth Century Fox, but God called him to serve in the US Army. After serving in the military, Selleck headed to Hollywood and relaunched his acting career. He landed the well-known role of Magnum P.I. but continued to let God be his guide. He left Cleveland for Miami, finally became a champion, went back to his beloved northeast Ohio, delivered on another title promise, then left for the Los Angeles Lakers and the next challenge. He played in eight straight finals. No NBA player won more games or more MVP awards over the last 10 years than he did. LeBron James is The Associated Press male athlete of the decade, adding his name to a list that includes Tiger Woods, Wayne Gretzky and Arnold Palmer. He was a runaway winner in a vote of AP member sports editors and AP beat writers, easily outpacing runner-up Tom Brady of the New England Patriots. James was revealed as the winner Sunday, one day after Serena Williams was announced as the AP’s female athlete of the decade. The six-month-old son of Detroit Lions wide receiver Marvin Jones has died. The youngest of his five children – Marlo Jones – died Friday. The cause of his death has not yet been revealed. Marvin Jones shared an emotional Instagram post writing: ‘Yesterday the Lord called home a piece of my family’s heart, Marlo. It is hard to believe that our little angel, our fighter from day one, our son “Marlito” has unfortunately passed away and is no longer here with us. Breakthrough singer-rapper Lizzo has been named Entertainer of the Year by The Associated Press. Voted by entertainment staffers of the news cooperative, Lizzo dominated the pop, R&B and rap charts in 2019 with songs like “Truth Hurts” and “Good As Hell.” Lizzo dropped her major-label debut, “Cuz I Love You,” this year and the success has made her the leading nominee at the 2020 Grammy Awards, where she is up for eight honors. Outside of music, Lizzo has won over fans for promoting body positivity and denouncing fat shaming. She performed with Prince on his 2014 “Plectrumelectrum” album, released two years before his death. Lizzo also had a role in the film “Hustlers,” opposite Jennifer Lopez, Constance Wu and Cardi B, and she voiced a character in the animated picture “UglyDolls.” Lee Mendelson, the prolific producer who guided “A Charlie Brown Christmas” to television, where it became an instant holiday classic in 1965 and has since delighted tens of millions of viewers, has died. He was 86. Mendelson died Wednesday at his Bay Area home in Hillsborough, Calif., of lung cancer and congestive heart failure, according to his son Jason Mendelson. The family had gathered at his home to celebrate Christmas. Employees at a record store in North Carolina say a mural of pop star Tina Turner has been defaced with a red swastika. The Citizen Times reported Thursday that the mural is outside Static Age Records in downtown Asheville. Store owner Jesse McSwain said someone unconnected to the store apparently covered the mural in a black sheet before he could address the situation. Static Age called police and the Southern Poverty Law Center. McSwain said that his store is “a widely inclusive, safe space” and that “hate speech will get you out the door.” “The Last Full Measure” will hit theaters at the top of 2020 and tells the true story of William “Pits” Pitsenbarger, a U.S. Air Force pararescueman who saved over 60 men in more than 250 combat missions during the Vietnam War and why it took 30 years for him to be posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. https://youtu.be/Go8zI2sytEc Nike has released a new ‘True to 7’ shoe with former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick – and it’s already sold out. According to Nike’s website, the shoes sold out in all kids and adult sizes. Kaerpernick has remained a controversial figure since taking a knee during the national anthem in 2016 to protest racial inequality in the U.S. On Monday, he tweeted ahead of the release of the new Colin Kaepernick x Nike Air Force 1. A small passenger plane en route to Atlanta for a College Football Playoff game crashed Saturday in an open field in Lafayette, Louisiana, killing five people. One person on board survived with life-threatening burns. Among the victims: the daughter-in-law of Louisiana State University’s offensive coordinator, Steve Ensminger. LSU whipped Oklahoma University Saturday evening in the Peach Bowl. The Seahawks surprised everyone around the NFL this week when they made the stunning decision to bring back Marshawn Lynch. Lynch’s new contract will be paying him for his one regular season game of action. According to NFL.com, Beast Mode will be getting a paycheck for $60,588 from the Seahawks this week. Basically, what this means is that Lynch agreed to a one-year deal that was pro-rated for the league minimum. For any player with more than 10 years of experience, the minimum is $1,030,000 for the entire season, which breaks down to $60,588 per week over 17 weeks. Former “Empire” star Jussie Smollett hit up Flint, Michigan to bring some holiday love to the children. According to TMZ, Smollett linked with youth and environmental activist Mari Copeny to surprise students at a local school with backpacks and toys. The actor also donated $10,000 to the Flint KIDS program. On his Instagram, Smollett revealed that he helped host “the biggest party ever for Flint KIds,” by giving away toys, winter coats, books and school supplies. Last year, Smollett reportedly donated $125,000 to various charities ahead of the holidays, including Flint KIDS and the Black AIDS Institute. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, approximately 30% of African American adults with mental illness are treated yearly compared to the overall U.S. average of 43%. Prompted by his own personal experiences with mental illness, Calvin G. Seino, better known as DJ Tryfe, decided to turn his 30th birthday celebration into ‘the VIRIBUS ball’ to raise money and awareness. Textures: Sequins, Velvet, Feathers, and Fur is the theme of the MET Gala-inspired experience taking place at Highland Theatre in the Hillcrest community of Washington, D.C., Sunday, January 19. Hosted by Candiace Dillard from The Real Housewives of Potomoc. The goal is to make a sizeable donation to the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, founded by fellow Howard University alum, actress Taraji P. Henson who started it to help those like her late father who struggled with mental illness. Her latest EP, "NEVER FORGOTTEN" is a collective of powerfully affirming tunes, and is available everywhere digital music is sold. https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/JOKIA-YAHWEH-RADIO-O2zg6L99qF18D8t0isWDG Grammy-nominated rapper DaBaby was detained and cited for drugs late Monday evening after performing in Charlotte. The artist, whose real name is Jonathan Kirk, was initially arrested after his performance at Bojangles Coliseum, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department said. Those charges were later dropped in lieu of two citations. Kirk’s social media account posted a video of officers using flash lights to search his car. Police records indicated officers recovered less than one half ounce of marijuana from the car. The estimated value of the drugs is $45, according to the police report. Officers also found a concealed firearm, empty Glock 23 magazine, and loose .45 caliber rounds. Kirk, who was detained and transported by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department officers to the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s office, was given two citations and released. He was cited for misdemeanor possession of marijuana; along with a citation for resist, obstruct and delay. Christmas came early for Chanel Iman and Sterling Shepard. The couple welcomed another baby girl, Cassie Snow Shepard, on Tuesday, Dec. 17th, and she already has an Instagram. Cassie joins sister Cali Clay, whom the Shepards welcomed in August 2018, and she already has an Instagram account too. Trina Braxton and Von Scales tied the knot on Sunday in St. Louis, Missouri in front of family and friends. The newlyweds’ ceremony was officiated by Judge Mablean Ephriam. It was held at Windows on Washington, a lavish venue in the historic downtown neighborhood of St. Louis. Toni, Towanda, Traci and Tamar were all in attendance, as well as their mother Evelyn. Somali-American model Halima Aden is the first black woman to appear on the cover of Essence magazine wearing a hijab. The model will be featured on the cover’s January/February issue, which is “just a taste of how Essence is celebrating every black woman in 2020,” according to the magazine. Essence said in a statement on its website that Aden, who is also an activist, “was the first Muslim homecoming queen at her high school; the first Somali student senator at her college; and the first hijab-wearing woman to be the face of numerous fashion magazine covers, including Allure and British Vogue.” Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson says the Lord keeps him humble despite all of his recent success. Jackson was responding to questions during a press conference, Wednesday and while receiving praise for being one of 2019’s breakout NFL stars he was asked what keeps him humble. He responded directly, “The Lord.” Jennifer Hudson is one busy actress/singer. She’s got a role in “Cats” which is opening this weekend and she’s starring as the late Aretha Franklin in an upcoming biopic. That biopic is called “Respect” and the first trailer has been released Basically, “Respect” follows the rise of Aretha Franklin’s career from a child singing in her father’s church’s choir to her international superstardom. https://youtu.be/25U11a2HgcI A day after the House impeached President Trump, charging that he pressured Ukraine to investigate a political rival, one of the most prominent institutions in evangelical Christianity also determined that he was unfit for his office. Mark Galli, editor of Christianity Today magazine, wrote Thursday: “The facts in this instance are unambiguous: The president of the United States attempted to use his political power to coerce a foreign leader to harass and discredit one of the president’s political opponents. That is not only a violation of the Constitution; more importantly, it is profoundly immoral.” Not long after the editorial was published, Christianity Today’s website crashed. By Friday afternoon, #ChristiansAgainstTrump was trending on Twitter. The documentary about Russell Simmons hasn’t even seen the light of day, but it’s already causing quite a stir. Oprah Winfrey has produced a film that will reportedly follow former music executive Drew Dixon as she details what she claims were multiple instances of sexual harassment and misconduct by Simmons. She alleges that he raped her in the mid-1990s, an allegation that Simmons fiercely denies. The Simmons family hasn’t commented on the allegations stacked against Russell. Growing Up Hip Hop‘s Angela Simmons has shared her thoughts on the accusations. “I’m not ever gonna get in between what’s going on with people,” Angela reportedly said. “I’m going to stand by my family. I’m not going to get in between all of that, it’s not my place. No one wants to see their family getting hurt. He has daughters.” She added: “My uncle knows what he’s done…but I don’t necessarily want to shine a light on that.” A former Fort Worth police officer accused of fatally shooting a woman inside her home in October has been indicted for murder. A Tarrant County grand jury indicted Aaron Dean Friday morning. A trial date has not yet been announced. At a press conference Friday, Jefferson’s family called news of the indictment a “relief.” Colin Kaepernick and Nike have announced the release of his own line of apparel and shoes. According to Yahoo Sports, one featured item within Kaepernick’s line of clothing is the plain black jersey, which has no NFL logos, only Kaepernick’s number, 7, along with his name on it. Pittsburgh Steelers safety Kameron Kelly was punched in the face by police several times and arrested after he allegedly refused to leave a local bar in the early hours of Friday morning. The 23-year-old is now facing two misdemeanor counts of making terroristic threats and one count of resisting arrest, according to court records obtained by KDKA, Pittsburgh’s CBS affiliate. The Steelers have since announced that they have released Kelly following his arrest. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Lifetime shares the first trailer for the film the Clark Sisters. Outside of hearing the release of Lifetime’s Clark Sisters biopic will be sometime in early 2020, few details have been shared, this is a great glimpse! The biopic stars Aunjanue Ellis as Mattie Moss Clark, Christina Bell as Twinkie, Kierra Sheard as Karen, Sheléa Frazier as Dorinda, Raven Goodwin as Denise, and Angela Birchett as Jacky. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=df1Yc7V-E7Q Herman Boone, the legendary high school football coach portrayed by Denzel Washington in the iconic movie “Remember the Titans,” has died. He was 84. Boone took over as head coach of T.C. Williams High School in Alexandria, Virginia, in 1971 — the first year the city’s high schools were integrated and consolidated. Led by Boone, who was black, and assistant coach Bill Yoast, who was white, the Titans football team overcame racial tension to go undefeated and win the state championship. Presiding Bishop Michael Curry Christmas Message 2019: In the first chapter of John’s Gospel, sometimes referred to as the prologue to the Gospel, sometimes spoken of as the whole Gospel in miniature the Gospel writer says this. As he reflects on the coming of God into the world in the person of Jesus. As he reflects on Christmas. He says, the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome. Tom Brady is the odd man out in the AFC for the first time in 11 years. The Patriots quarterback was not selected for this season’s Pro Bowl, a first for Brady since 2008 when he was sidelined for the season due to injury. MVP candidate and Ravens superstar Lamar Jackson was selected as the starter, with the Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes and the Texans’ Deshaun Watson picked as reserves. TV One was recently named one of the Top Companies of 2019 for People of Color by the National Association for Multi-ethnicity in Communications (NAMIC), the premiere organization focusing on cultural diversity, equity and inclusions in the communications industry. As announced by NAMIC, TV One was among the top five programmers and is recognized as a leader in fostering diversity and inclusion in the cable and communications industry. The findings were gleaned from the 2019 NAMIC AIM Report which ranked the top five operators and top five programmers. 2019 was a roller coaster — especially for the most searched person of the year. The past 12 months were dominated by major sports stories: the United States winning the Women's World Cup. Andrew Luck's sudden retirement. Tanking for Zion. The Washington Nationals and St. Louis Blues winning their first-ever championships. But out of all of that, no buzz quite reached the height of the scandals surrounding former Pittsburgh Steelers, Oakland Raiders and New England Patriots wide receiver Antonio Brown. When Google released its top trending searches of 2019, Brown wasn't just named the most searched athlete of the year — he was also the most searched person overall. It’s an early Christmas gift for fans of syndicated daytime talk show Tamron Hall, as news breaks that it has been picked up for a second season after the chat fest performed solidly for three months. Produced and distributed by Disney, 49-year-old host and executive producer Tamron Hall said she is “thrilled” that it has been cleared in 80 percent of the country for next season. The wife and new mom entered into an already crowded talk space in syndication earlier this year and has managed to break through the noise, ranking second behind The Kelly Clarkson Show, which has also been renewed for another season. As he closes the year with some new Christmas music, count Journey‘s Jonathan Cain among those welcoming Kanye West to the ranks of Christian music. “For me it looked like a move of God, and I’m thrilled he’s doing it,” Cain — who began his own Christian music career with 2016’s What God Wants to Hear, the following year’s Unsung Noel and this year’s More Like Jesus. “He’s moving people. People are being ministered to. People are getting saved. They’re coming to Jesus. He’s using his influence, and I applaud that. Autopsy reports released this week by the Cobb County medical examiner’s office in Georgia found that the mother of Erin Edwards, a rising junior at Boston University, fatally shot her daughter three times in a murder-suicide in August, before turning the gun on herself. The two died in the same room. Dr. Marsha Edwards also shot her son, Christopher Edwards II, at least five times as he lay in bed, the report said. Marsha Edwards then killed herself with a single shot to the chest. The gruesome deaths of Erin, 20, her brother, Christopher, 24, and their mother, 58, shocked the prominent family’s community in Atlanta and left BU students reeling. In October, more than 200 people gathered at the university’s Marsh Chapel to grieve, describing Erin Edwards as a passionate student journalist and devoted friend. During this Decade The Gospel Spotlight has made many friends and during the next few weeks we want you to meet them. Share our journey and Flash Back Gospel Spotlight!!!! Hear Vickie Winans IN Her Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/Vickie_Winans.htm During this Decade The Gospel Spotlight has made many friends and during the next few weeks we want you to meet them. Share our journey and Flash Back Gospel Spotlight!!!! Hear Cheryl "CoKo" Clements IN Her Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/coko_intvw.htm December 16th, GRAMMY® nominee, Billboard Music Award and NAACP Image Award winning, Koryn Hawthorne, was presented with a gold plaque for her #1 smash hit “Won’t He Do It” being RIAA-Certified Gold® by her record label, RCA Inspiration. The chart-dominating single placed #2 on Billboard’s Decade-End Hot Gospel Songs chart. Additionally, Hawthorne set a new record with “Won’t He Do It” earlier in 2019 becoming the female Gospel artist with the longest rein at #1 on the Hot Gospel Songs chart upon the song’s 26th week in the top spot. RCAI presented Hawthorne with the gold plaque at their office in Franklin, TN. Hawthorne first burst onto the world stage as a top-four finalist on NBC’s The Voice. She went on to release her debut album, Unstoppable in 2018. The album debuted at #1 on the Top Gospel Albums chart and garnered over 1.2 million streams in its first week of release. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight!!! Hear Koryn Hawthorne IN Her Own Words....https://gospel-spotlight.com/korynhawthorne_intvw.htm RCA Inspiration celebrates Donald Lawrence and Le’Andria Johnson for their #1 hit “Deliver Me (This Is My Exodus),” making surprise plaque presentations to the two performers in Houston, TX on Friday December 13th, at the McDonald’s Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour concert at Lakewood Church. A soaring track richly-textured with declarations of faith to break free of past woes, the two GRAMMY®-winning powerhouses first recorded “Deliver Me (This Is My Exodus)” featuring Le’Andria Johnson, for Lawrence’s acclaimed album Donald Lawrence Presents The Tri-City Singers, Goshen, with Lawrence producing and co-writing the track. Catch the Beats 1 interview with four-time GRAMMY® nominated recording artist, songwriter and producer Travis Greene on Apple Music. Greene sits down to discuss his new album Broken Record, and more. Marking his fourth album, Greene’s eleven-track project features the singles “Won’t Let Go,” “Good & Loved” (feat. Steffany Gretzinger), “The Breaker,” among others, showcasing his distinct creative blend of high-energy live performances, reflective worship, and more. Broken Record is available on all music providers now. The King of parties, Sean Diddy Combs, celebrated his 50th birthday this weekend with an opulent bash at his Beverly Hills mansion. Acclaimed gospel artist Marvin Sapp performed two songs that have been very special to Diddy and have helped him through a tough year since losing the mother of his children, Kim Porter. Upon arrival, guests like Beyoncé and Jay Z, Pharrell, Kanye West and Kim Kardashian West, Leonardo DiCaprio, Gayle King, Kate Beckinsale, Chadwick Boseman. Lizzo and Post Malone entered the manor along an illuminated walkway, where all the windows were decorated with a bright light installation. Hosted by Swizz Beatz and Kenny Burn party goers danced the night away. Diddy's first surprise of the night was a special performance by the Queen of Hip Hop Soul and longtime friend, Mary J. Blige. Mary performed a 40 minute set while guests danced to some of her biggest hits. Will and Jada Pinkett Smith revealed they had an intervention for son Jaden after his very restrictive vegetarian diet back in September. And now the 21-year-old rapper has finally addressed those health concerns. Jaden appeared alongside his entire family on the most recent episode of Facebook Watch’s Red Table Talk which began streaming on Monday. The Smith clan got together with some professionals to discuss their results for an in-depth health test. Jaden joked that his parents vocalizing their concerns in such a public way made him hesitant to participate. Scientists in Oklahoma are one step closer to finding possible evidence of mass graves linked to the deadly race massacre of 1921. Researchers in Tulsa used ground penetrating radar to survey two sites and found irregularities that could be consistent with large-scale burials. The neighborhood of Greenwood was known as black Wall Street. Restaurants, grocery stores and tailors were all black-owned businesses. In 1921 a white mob burned much of the Tulsa neighborhood to the ground, and some say as many as 300 black residents were killed. Almost forgotten by history, the city is trying to uncover the past and heal the wounds. The white mob clashed with several armed black men who had gathered to protect a black shoe shiner who was unjustly accused of assaulting a white woman. After a shot was fired, violence broke out and hundreds of black people were massacred. Christian singer Lauren Daigle recently visited Angola State Prison and raised $17,000 for the inmates to help them make phone calls and have new clothes for the holidays. Daigle posted of her visit to Angola, the largest maximum-security prison in the U.S., on social media over the weekend to celebrate the generosity of her supporters on Giving Tuesday. The Grammy-winning singer visited the prison on December 11 and in the video clip she shared, Daigle is seen delivering the good news to the inmates during an intimate lunch. The Lafayette, Louisiana, native explained to everyone that the campaign raised $17,000 to help fund clothing and phone calls evenly distributed to the 6,300 prisoners of the Louisiana penitentiary this Christmas. The troubles that have followed Josh Gordon throughout his career continued Monday as the Seahawks wide receiver was suspended indefinitely by the NFL for violating the league’s drug policy again. Gordon, the former star at Lamar High School, tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs and “substances of abuse,” the league said in a statement. Drew Brees made NFL history again Monday night. Brees broke Peyton Manning’s career touchdown record with a 5-yard pass to tight end Josh Hill midway through the third quarter against the Indianapolis Colts, giving him 540 for his career. It was the highlight of a monster night from Brees, who also made NFL history by registering a 96.7 completion percentage as the Saints trounced the Colts, 34-7. Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson essentially ended the NFL Most Valuable Player debate last week, when he put up another five touchdown passes and broke Michael Vick’s single-season rushing record for a quarterback. The more intriguing question involving Jackson is whether the football world is witnessing something historically greater. Running the ball like Barry Sanders and tossing touchdown passes like Tom Brady, Jackson has brought shock and awe with how he has run up the score on some of the best teams by breaking ankles on open-field scrambles and breaking defenses with those sidearm throws. He is playing the quarterback position unlike anyone before him, leading the NFL with 33 touchdown passes while becoming the second quarterback to rush for 1,000 yards. Relentless Church plans to move to a new Greenville location in 2020, Pastor John Gray announced to about 4,200 attendees at Sunday service. In an exclusive interview with The Greenville News, Gray said Relentless has chosen a location, but he didn’t disclose where it was or whether Relentless planned to build or lease the space. More details should be announced at the church’s service on New Years Eve, Gray said. When asked if paperwork has been signed yet, Gray said, “We are right where we need to be.” Relentless Church is currently leasing the campus of the former Redemption Church in Greenville, where Gray took over as pastor after former pastors Ron and Hope Carpenter left to take over a church in San Jose, California. Redemption Church still owns the property, and after months of behind-the-scenes negotiations, attorneys for Redemption wrote a letter to Relentless ending their lease agreement and asking the church to vacate the property by the end of the year. Gray has said Relentless is current on all of its lease payments. In a response to Redemption’s letter, attorneys for Relentless said the Carpenters “could not follow through with all the terms of the original transition agreement related to property when Relentless moved in.” http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Delegates to the Union for Reform Judaism’s biennial meeting in Chicago on Friday (Dec. 13) voted overwhelmingly to advocate for the creation of a federal commission to study and develop proposals for reparations to African Americans for slavery. The resolution is the first such effort on the part of an American Jewish organization but has precedent among some Protestant groups. Grammy® Award Winner and Global Recording Artist Kirk Whalum 8th Annual Gospel According To Jazz Christmas tour is in selected markets like Atlanta, Houston, New York, Nashville and more. Whalum will perform his biggest hits, holiday favorites, and songs from his latest album, Humanite’ The dates will feature John Stoddart and Kevin Whalum, along with this year's special guests, vocalist Maysa and guitarist Adam Hawley. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight!!! Hear Kirk Whalum In His Own Words.....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/kirk_whalum.htm Kanye West and televangelist Joel Osteen are looking to take their spiritual connection on the road. Following West’s Sunday Service at Osteen’s Lakewood Church, the two reportedly talked about embarking on a national tour. According to TMZ, West and Osteen will conduct a service at Yankee Stadium on May 2. West will be in charge of the music while Osteen will handle the message. Sources claim that the two will take on Chicago’s Guaranteed Rate Field in September. If these two shows go well, West and Osteen will possibly expand the experience. Those close to the situation tell TMZ that the two are talking about putting together services in Miami, Detroit, and Los Angeles. The details are still unknown, but these shows might take place in 2021. Niecy Nash and Jay Tucker are one big step closer to ending their marriage. Nash, 49, filed for divorce in Los Angeles on Thursday, according to TMZ. In October, the “Claws” star and the electrical engineer announced their separation, but said they were still on good terms. The duo was reportedly spending a lot of time apart while Nash worked on “Claws,” and Tucker was also reportedly displeased with her sex scenes. “Niecy got a brand-new body right before she went to film ‘Claws’ down in New Orleans and that’s when their troubles began,” a source told The Daily Mail. “Jay was really uncomfortable with her graphic sex scenes on the show and that made their problems worse. They were living in two different cities and Jay expressed he didn’t like his wife being in New Orleans while he was in LA.” Lauren London is paying tribute to the man she loved. In her new “Forever Stronger” campaign video for Puma released Tuesday, the 35-year-old actress honors her late boyfriend Nipsey Hussle, who was killed on March 31 outside his Marathon clothing store in LA. The pair had dated from 2013 until his tragic death, and share son Kross, 3. Rapper 50 Cent targeted Oprah Winfrey in an Instagram post, accusing the beloved TV host and super-producer of singling out black men, such as Michael Jackson and Russell Simmons, in her #MeToo activism. Thursday night, the “Candy Shop” hit-maker shared an old photo of Winfrey and disgraced music mogul Simmons smiling together, paired with a caption alleging that Winfrey has omitted white men accused of sexual assault, such as Harvey Weinstein and Jeffrey Epstein, while “going after” black men in her advocacy for survivors. The post also cites Winfrey’s forthcoming Sundance documentary, which features one of Simmons’ rape accusers. An all too common storyline in hip-hop has become the untimely passing of its brightest stars. On December 8th, a freshly 21-one-year-old Juice WRLD overdosed on Percocet pills at an airport. In 2018 XXXtentacion was killed in a car shooting and Mac Miller overdosed. The year before that, Lil Peep died of an overdose. “We have got to change Hip-Hop it wasn’t made to glorify drugs, objectify women and promote violence. It was meant to give a voice to the oppressed. Yet the music we make today oppresses our own people and paints the image that all of this is okay. We have to stop it’s killing us,” singer/rapper Byron Juane pleaded through a Tweet. Cory Booker announced on Thursday that he will not qualify for the next Democratic debate on Dec. 19. “Today is the deadline for the DNC’s December debate qualifying threshold—and while I may not be on the debate stage next Thursday, thanks to the outpouring of support over the past few weeks, we know there’s a path to victory, and we no longer need the debate stage to get there,” the New Jersey senator tweeted. A Tuesday poll by Quinnipiac University showed that Booker’s favorability is dropping, with just one percent of voters saying they would choose him over other candidates. The debate requires candidates to meet the four percent threshold in at least four national or early-state polls to qualify. Angela “Missy” Billups and Ernest Billups & Tribe of Levi will take the stage with Mariah Carey for her Christmas show at Madison Square Garden Sunday, December 15. Hallmark Channel Presents Mariah Carey - All I Want for Christmas , celebrates the 25th anniversary of the award-winning singer’s holiday album, Merry Christmas, which introduced the enduring and record-breaking holiday hit that gives the tour its subtitle. Gospel singer Missy Billups, her son Ernest Billups, and Ernest’s 20-voice gospel group Tribe of Levi—all residents of New York—will provide background vocals for Carey on “All I Want for Christmas.” They will also support Carey on Christmas classics “Jesus, Oh What a Wonderful Child,” “Silent Night,” and “Joy to the World.” Missy and Ernest are not the only Billups family members scheduled to appear on the holiday special. Tribe of Levi includes Missy’s daughter, Angela E. Billups and her son, Marcus Billups, who does backup work for Bishop Hezekiah Walker. Sharing the love of the Christmas season came through individual gifts to every inmate in South Carolina this year, provided by churches and associations in the South Carolina Baptist Convention (SCBC). The prisoner packet ministry has been going on for the past 40 years. Jon Jamison, serve team leader of South Carolina Baptist Convention, said the point of the ministry is to tangibly serve the inmates and provide opportunities for them to hear the Gospel. The gifts are collected throughout the year and packaged and delivered during the Christmas season. Authorities are investigating potential connections between the Jersey City attackers and the Black Hebrew Israelite movement, a black nationalist theology, a law enforcement official familiar with the inquiry said Wednesday. Investigators also are scouring social media postings of at least one of the attackers in search of a motive, said the official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the investigation remains ongoing. The Southern Poverty Law Center has labeled the Hebrew Israelites a black supremacist group. Some sects within the movement are known for their fierce condemnations of white and Jewish people. NFL star Khalil Mack delivered some holiday cheer for customers at a Walmart in his Florida hometown over the weekend. The Chicago Bears linebacker reportedly paid off $80,000 worth of layaway accounts, leaving many families with less to worry about. The four-time Pro-Bowler took care of the debts at a Walmart in Fort Pierce through the Khalil Mack Foundation, which focuses on impacting lives of “intercity and under-privileged youth and families.” The store announced the donation in a Facebook post and thanked him for the act of kindness. LSU quarterback Joe Burrow, Oklahoma quarterback Jalen Hurts, and Ohio State teammates quarterback Justin Fields and defensive end Chase Young are headed to New York this weekend as finalists for the Heisman Trophy. The 85th edition of the award for the most outstanding college football player will be announced Saturday in a ceremony televised on ESPN beginning at 8 p.m. ET. Burrow, who spent the first three years of his career at Ohio State, is the heavy favorite to win after throwing for an SEC-record 48 touchdown passes and 4,715 yards, while leading the Tigers to the conference title. Desiree Rogers and Cheryl Mayberry McKissack, owners of the Black Opal line of skin-care and beauty products, are now majority owners of Fashion Fair Cosmetics. Fashion Fair, created by the late Eunice W. Johnson for Johnson Publishing Co. — and once the largest black-owned cosmetics company in the world — has been sold to investors that include Rogers and McKissack, who were Johnson Publishing executives. Hedge fund operator Alec Litowicz will hold a minority stake as a personal investment, Chicago Sun-Times reports. Issa Rae has opened up a coffee shop in the same neighborhood that her popular HBO series “Insecure” is set. On Instagram, the Emmy Award-nominated star revealed that she’s now the “proud” co-owner of Hilltop Coffee and Kitchen in Inglewood, CA. “Elated and proud to be a partner and co-owner of @findyourhilltop!,” she wrote. “Our Inglewood location officially opens TODAY!” she continued. “Come through and check us out!” A 160-year-old church believed to be the oldest black church in the United States and built by enslaved Africans has been restored to a version of its former glory. A fresh coat of paint covers the freshly carpeted First African Baptist Church in Savannah, Georgia, which also had its bell tower fixed, water damaged ceilings repaired and stucco replaced, the Savannah Morning News reported Saturday. It cost nearly $600,000 to repair numerous issues, the Rev. Thrumond Tillman said. The church, a National Historic Landmark, was organized in 1773, according to the website, which says the church gained a pastor in 1775 and a congregation two years later. The sanctuary was completed in 1859. The film tells the story of the real life security guard who was wrongfully treated as a suspect after finding a bag of explosives at the 1996 Olympics and saving thousands of people’s lives. Among the characters is Kathy Scruggs, a journalist for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution who died in 2001. Scruggs was the reporter who was the first to publish that the FBI was treating Jewell as a suspect and not a hero. In the movie, she is played by Olivia Wilde and is portrayed as trying to sleep with an FBI agent played by Jon Hamm in exchange for information about the bombing. The AJC has taken offense to the characterization of her and say it suggests she slept with agents to get information from them. Police and federal agents had been waiting inside the Atlantic Aviation hangar for 21-year-old rapper Juice Wrld’s flight to arrive from Los Angeles at 1:30am Sunday morning, following suspicions the musician was in possession of contraband. Two arrests were made after officers began sifting through his and his entourage’s suitcases. It was at this moment that the up and coming star – real name Jarad Higgins – began ‘convulsing [and] going into a seizure’, law enforcement sources said. An agent is then said to have administered Higgins two doses of Narcan, an emergency treatment used when an opioid overdose is suspected. Higgins was understood to have been conscious when he was taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn but was pronounced dead just an hour later. This year was the year of diversity within the world’s biggest beauty pageants, with 2019 marking the first time ever that Miss America, Miss USA, Miss Teen USA, and Miss Universe were all won by black women. Zozibini Tunzi of South Africa was crowned the winner of the 2019 Miss Universe pageant on Sunday evening, however her win did not just represent a phenomenal personal triumph – it also rocketed her into the history books alongside her fellow black beauty queens. Newly-crowned Tunzi, 26, joins Miss America Nia Franklin, Miss USA Cheslie Kryst, and Miss Teen USA Kaliegh Garris in the history-making foursome – which has already come under high praise online from a slew of people, including former first lady Michelle Obama. ’Tis the season for giving and San Francisco 49ers’ cornerback Richard Sherman has risen to the occasion. Earlier this week, the NFL star cleared over $27,000 worth of student lunch debt for California children, according to ABC. “It’s the most generous thing to happen for these kids,” said Cabrillo Middle School principal Stan Garber. Cabrillo received a personal check for over $7,000 from the NFL star while the Tacoma Public Schools District received $20,000. The donation came a day after the cornerback was awarded the National Football League Players Association’s Week 11 Community MVP. Sherman has gained a solid reputation for his generosity. He started two nonprofits—the Richard Sherman Family Foundation and Blanket Coverage Foundation—which have collectively raised $1.5 million since 2013 and helped more than 70,000 people in need. New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick on Tuesday denied any involvement with the videographer who was caught taping the Cincinnati Bengals‘ sideline during their game against Cleveland on Sunday. It has raised suspicions around the league and drawn some comparisons to “Spygate,” the 2007 incident that led to penalties for Belichick and the Patriots. Belichick said the franchise has altered its approach since then. DIVAS Simply Singing!, the longest consecutive running musical AIDS benefit in the United States, hosted its 29th annual fundraiser for The D.I.V.A. Foundation at the Taglyan Cultural Center in Hollywood, California on World AIDS Day, Sunday, December 1. Created and produced by Tony Award-Winning Sheryl Lee Ralph and benefitting Project Angel Food, the evening of song and entertainment spotlights the talents of D.I.V.A. (acronym for Divinely Inspired, Victoriously Aware) individuals from all walks of show business. DIVAS 2019 honored Grammy, Golden Globe, Emmy winning, and 10-time Oscar nominee, legendary songwriter Diane Warren with the DIVAS Legacy Award. The Strength to Stand Student Bible Conference recently announced that Kanye West will be next month’s conference’s new headliner. Christian Comedian John Crist was initially set to headline the January conference, but in November he was “removed due to moral failure.” As a result of the allegations, not only did Crist cancel the remainder of his comedy tour, but his Netflix special “I Ain’t Prayin’ for That” and his upcoming book “Untag Me: The Subtle Art of Appearing Better Than You Really Are” were put on hold. Replacing Crist as the youth conferences headliner is, musician and outspoken Christian, Kanye West. Strength to Stand Student Bible Conference leader Scott Dawson released a statement in a YouTube video announcing the change. According to the conference’s website, West will be performing at the January 18-20 conference in Pigeon Forge, Tennesse. Also performing on those dates is popular worship band, Hillsong Young & Free. Reportedly, since announcing West’s involvement in January’s event, the conference has sold out. Reid Temple A.M.E. and the Worship & Fine Arts Department hosts Grammy & Stellar winner Brent Jones at Reid Temple's New Year's Eve Celebration Tuesday, December 31st at 7 pm and 10 pm. Led by Senior Pastor Rev. Mark E. Whitlock, Jr., Reid Temple A.M.E. is a vibrant congregation of over 15,000 members which has been serving the Greater DC, Maryland, Virginia (DMV) area for over 55 years! Miss South Africa has snagged the crown this year for Miss Universe. Zozibini Tunzi won the 2019 Miss Universe pageant on Sunday night, beating out nearly 90 other women from various countries and territories in the annual competition. Tunzi, 26, is a public relations professional and activist whose platform is largely based on her fight against gender-based violence, according to her contestant biography. Tunzi edged out her runner-up, Miss Puerto Rico Madison Anderson, as well as Miss Mexico Sofía Aragón, who came in third place. “I’m so ecstatic,” Tunzi told reporters after her victory. Jordan Peele’s “Us” was named the year’s Best Film today by the African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA), the world’s largest group of black film critics comprised of leading film critics from across the country and world. “Us” (which earned over $255 million globally) received three total wins including Peele for Best Director and Lupita Nyong’o for Best Actress. https://youtu.be/hNCmb-4oXJA It seems that some people just won’t let former NFL quarterback Michael Vick escape his past as an animal abuser, as thousands have signed several online petitions demanding the NFL remove him from the list of captains at the 2020 Pro Bowl. Back in 2007, Vick served 19 months in a federal prison in Leavenworth, Kansas for bankrolling a dogfighting operation and killing dogs that underperformed. Christmas came early for 23 families in Atlanta Monday after a church paid off $10,000 worth of merchandise they had on layaway at a local Walmart. The Rev. Kevin Murriel, senior pastor of Cascade United Methodist Church, told the gathering of families at the Walmart on Research Center Drive that his congregation was feeling “blessed to be a blessing” and he believes “everyone deserves a good Christmas.” Jacky Clark-Chisholm of two-time GRAMMY® Award-winning gospel group, The Clark Sisters mourns the loss of her husband of 46 years, Glynn T. Chisholm (70) who passed away on Thanksgiving Day. A homegoing service for Deacon Glynn T. Chisholm were held Monday, Dec. 9 at the Greater Emmanual Institutional Church of God in Christ in Detroit, Michigan. Actress Sally Field, singer Linda Ronstadt and funk band Earth Wind and Fire shared the spotlight Sunday night as part of the latest group of recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors for lifetime achievement in the arts. Also in this year’s class were conductor Michael Tilson Thomas and long-running children’s TV show “Sesame Street.” Carroll Spinney the original Big Bird puppeteer died earlier Sunday at age 85. For the first time since 2015, four Power 5 conference champions have been selected for the College Football Playoff. No. 1 LSU will face No. 4 Oklahoma in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl in Atlanta, and No. 2 Ohio State will play No. 3 Clemson in the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl in Glendale, Arizona, as decided by the CFP selection committee Sunday. Both semifinal games will take place Dec. 28. The College Football Playoff National Championship will be held Jan. 13 at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans. In anticipation of the release of the true story “I Have A Warrant For Your Arrest: Hell On The Border,” we’re sharing this exclusive clip from the project about the real LONE RANGER, a Black man named Bass Reeves. Reeves was the first Black US Marshal in the Wild West, but revisionists flipped the script on history, making the real life legend a white male for mass consumption. https://youtu.be/4l5qLNXOhts Bishop Oliver Clyde Allen, III, Senior Pastor, Vision Cathedral of Atlanta and Presiding Prelate of the United Progressive Pentecostal Church Fellowship recently announced on World Aids Day in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, December 1, 2019 the expansion of the VISION brand in three new markets: Nashville (Tennessee), Raleigh (North Carolina) and Los Angeles (California). Pastor Sammie Haynes founder/CEO of Love Freedom Movement and former Editor In Chief of SHEEN Magazine has been named the lead servant for the Los Angeles, California VISION Campus. Pastor Sammie says, it is my desire simply to create a bold space for ALL people to know at Vision LA you have a seat at the table. Some of the biggest names in film, television, and music gathered for a star-studded affair at the annual Urban One Honors at MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland, on Thursday, December 5. Hosted by Urban One Founder Cathy Hughes and Chris Tucker, the event celebrated the 40-year legacy of Radio One and will premiere on January 20, 2020, the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday, at 8P.M./7C on TV One. This year's honorees included: Sylvia Rhone (Lifetime Achievement Honor); Missy Elliott (Music Innovation Honor); Jamie Foxx (Entertainment Icon Honor); Chance the Rapper (Represent Change Honor); and Ryan Jamaal Swain (Represent Pride Honor). Pastor John Gray spent the first three and a half minutes of his Sunday sermon addressing the rumors and headlines surrounding an eviction letter that Relentless Church received this week from an attorney for Redemption World Outreach. Pastor Gray told the congregation that the leases and bills are paid. “We’re not being evicted because we’ve paid the bills,” he said. Pastor Gray told church members that the process of transitioning the two churches has been legally complicated. He said it is his hope that both sides will come to an amicable resolution. He also expressed disappointment that information in the letter was leaked to the media because he does not want the process to play out publicly. He told the congregation he will not engage in mudslinging and does not want the congregation to do so either. Juice Wrld is dead after suffering a seizure at Chicago’s Midway airport, according to TMZ. The rapper, who is best known for his songs “Lucid Dreams” and “Wasted,” just turned 21 on December 2. According to the TMZ report, Juice Wrld, whose real name is Jarad Anthony Higgins, had recently landed at the airport following a flight from California. He suffered a seizure while walking through the airport. When emergency personnel approached him, he was “bleeding from the mouth.” Although he was still conscious when transported to the hospital, he died a short time later. Are they miracles or a madman’s plot to throw the world into chaos? As CIA agent Eva Geller, gets to the bottom of the case in the first trailer for Netflix’s upcoming Mark Burnett-produced series Messiah. https://youtu.be/mjLWuzGVyew Federal prosecutors are accusing singer R. Kelly of scheming with others to pay for a fake ID for an unnamed female a day before he married R&B singer Aaliyah, then 15 years old, in a secret ceremony in 1994. The revised indictment, filed Thursday in New York, accuses Kelly of paying a bribe in exchange for a “fraudulent identification document” for someone identified only as “Jane Doe” on Aug. 30, 1994. A day later, Kelly, then 27, married Aaliyah in a secret ceremony he arranged at a hotel in Chicago. The marriage was annulled months later because of her age. Aaliyah died in a plane crash in 2001 at age 22. The 52-year-old singer, who is being held without bond, is scheduled to stand trial in federal court in Chicago in April on child pornography and obstruction of justice charges before facing trial in Brooklyn. Christian movie producer DeVon Franklin is excited to co-produce NBC’s new faith-based drama Kingdom Business. Kingdom Business will offer a behind-the-scenes peek at the gospel music industry—without the sugar coating. The TV drama portrays the “conflict and secrets that come with money, fame and success,” according to Deadline. Franklin shared his excitement with his Instagram followers , saying, “Can’t wait for y’all to see this!!!” Jai Reed Is Set To Make His NFL National Anthem Debut New Orleans Saints vs San Francisco 49ers Sunday, December 8th at 12 PM CST/1 PM EST https://soundcloud.com/user-538325838/sets/jai-reed-greatest-hits?utm_source=Pastor+Jai+Reed+Sings+New+Orleans+Saints+Football+Game+Dec+2019&utm_campaign=Day+Out+Against+Crime&utm_medium=email TV One's DEAR SANTA, I NEED A DATE airing tomorrow Sunday, December 8 at 7 p.m. ET/6C. The romantic comedy stars Ray J, Reagan Gomez-Preston, Anne-Marie Johnson, Reginae Carter and more. Gospel Spotlight Exclusive!!! Hear Ann Marie Johnson In Her Own Words...http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/annmariejohnson_intvw.htm On the stirring season finale of LENS OF CULTURE - airing Saturday, December 7, at 12p.m. ET/11C. - co-hosts Tai Beauchamp and Elton Anderson journey to Jamestown to experience the beautiful drumming sounds of the African homeland. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GUrzldxfJtg&feature=youtu.be A heart-wrenching new inspiring film hits theaters today. Written and directed by Tarek Tohme, HOLD ON is a music-driven drama that is inspired by the true events of a young woman fighting to keep her dreams alive. Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter, worship leader, actress, and model Micayala De Ette stars as overlooked singing prodigy Sidney Rhodes. The movie is inspired by Micayla’s real-life experiences with family tragedy, career setbacks, and all-encompassing grief and the fight to save her brother from a life of addiction on Los Angeles’ Skid Row. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=liXm6hyID1w&feature=youtu.be Continuing to deliver top-tier talent and chart-topping new music, RCA Inspiration remains a dominating force earning major honors across all of Billboard’s 2019 Year-End Charts for Gospel and Gospel Songwriting. RCA Inspiration and its parent division Provident Label Group top the rankings across Gospel label charts. Provident Label Group has been named #2 on Billboard’s 2019 Year-End Charts for Top Gospel Album Labels and Hot Gospel Songs Labels. RCA Inspiration has been named #2 on Billboard’s 2019 Year-End Charts for Top Gospel Album Imprints and Hot Gospel Songs Imprints, with Verity also named #4 again on Top Gospel Album Imprints. RCA Inspiration’s honors on Billboard’s 2019 Year-End Charts include the latest projects and heartfelt classics from Kirk Franklin, Koryn Hawthorne, Donald Lawrence Presents The Tri-City Singers, Marvin Sapp, Travis Greene, and more on the Top Gospel Artists, Top Gospel Albums, Hot Gospel Songs, and Gospel Streaming Songs charts. Raizel & Chè Sarai drops new song-Made New https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1483915015079961&id=100003844309020 New Angelo & Veronica Christmas Single "He's Not a Baby Anymore" now at Digital Stores! https://youtu.be/NI31aXAutfY Kanye West and Joel Osteen will reportedly reunite at New York's Yankee Stadium May 2 as part of the megachurch pastor’s “America’s Night of Hope” series. According to TMZ, Osteen will serve up his usual praise and worship sermon while West and his Sunday Service cult will provide the music. The event will mark Osteen’s third time bringing the “America’s Night of Hope” series to the venue, but his first doing so with Yeezy. Details are currently being finalized. Tickets for previous Osteen events at Yankee Stadium have cost around the $15, per the report. West joined Osteen at the Lakewood megachurch in Houston last month, and at one point he told attendees that he is “the greatest artist that God has ever created.” Today is the day! Gene Moore’s visual album for, Nashville Sessions is live on Apple Music. This is a collection of your favorite songs from Tunnel Vision with a raw, unplugged feel. Listen now by clicking the link. https://genemoore.lnk.to/NashvilleSessions?utm_campaign=35481_MOTG%2012.6_231797_US&utm_source=dotmailer&utm_medium=email&dm_i=4YUT,RDL,4SQSQ,31OZ,1 Chart-Topping Stellar, Dove & BMI Awarding-Winning Producer & Recording Artist Isaac Carree Gives Us "The Gift" Chart-Topping Stellar, Dove & BMI Awarding-Winning Producer & Recording Artist Isaac Carree Gives Us "The Gift" Just in Time for the Holidays https://soundcloud.com/shanachie-1/isaac-carree-thegift/s-IERVi It is barely almost two years to the exact day that John Gray publicly announced he was leaving his role as associate pastor of Lakewood Church to take over as pastor of the popular Redemption Church in Greenville, South Carolina, at the request of its founding pastor Ron Carpenter Jr, in December 2017, and it already appears the church’s future is uncertain with him at the helm. According to a new report by Larry Reid of Larry Reid Live, John Gray and Redemption Church, which Gray renamed Relentless Church upon becoming senior pastor, have been issued a notice of eviction from their place of worship for non-payment of a lease agreement. A pastoral succession situation that started out with much promise and blessing is slowly turning out to be what some perceive to be a disaster. Pray for the pastors and congregation involved. The former Florida neighborhood watchman who was acquitted of killing 17-year-old Trayvon Martin seven years ago is suing the dead teenager’s family and others who were involved in the racially charged case that divided the nation for $100 million. George Zimmerman claims in a lawsuit filed by his lawyer, conservative nonprofit Judicial Watch founder Larry Klayman, that the case against him rested on false evidence and is alleging abuse of civil process and conspiracy. Specifically, the suit contends that the prosecution’s key witness against Zimmerman at his 2013 murder trial, Rachel Jeantel, was an “imposter and fake witness.” Benjamin Crump, who is also named in the suit, is the lawyer for Martin’s parents, Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin. He released a statement that dismissed the lawsuit as “another failed attempt to defend the indefensible and a shameless attempt to profit off the lives and grief of others.” Media mogul and entrepreneur Bob Johnson, the founder of BET, says the 2020 US presidential election is President Donald Trump’s to lose. Although some current polls show Trump struggling against certain challengers, Johnson told CNBC the president’s “disruptive force” would ultimately turn the tide. “I think the president has always been in a position where it’s his to lose based on his bringing a sort of disruptive force into what would be called political norms,” said Johnson. Johnson said the president’s “style” and his ability to “dominate the news cycle” on crucial issues like immigration boost him with his supporters. That will help him rise above any challengers, as Democrats tend to lose focus on substance and wind up attacking Trump’s delivery. Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey on Tuesday proposed investing $100 billion in historically black colleges and universities and other minority-serving institutions, a broad proposal in a Democratic field that has offered varying plans to prop up this longstanding yet struggling arm of the educational system. Many H.B.C.U.s, as historically black colleges and universities are commonly known, have faced widespread financial woes recently, with some schools losing accreditation and facing plummeting enrollment. Mr. Booker’s proposal comes at a precarious time for his presidential campaign: Despite crossing the 200,000 individual-donor threshold last month, he is still short four qualifying polls for the December debate and is in real danger of being left off the stage. As part of V Week, ESPN is honoring the life and legacy of anchor Stuart Scott on the fifth anniversary of his death from cancer in 2015. Scott’s family aren’t the only ones celebrating his legacy. Prior to tip off against the Ohio State Buckeyes on Wednesday night, the North Carolina Tar Heels players honored the famous broadcaster by rocking pregame shirts that had a cartoon version of Scott on the front, 247sports.com reports. The front also included a phrase that the former ESPN anchor regularly used when he hosted “Late Night with Roy Williams.” “This is what it’s all about. It’s on the floor. It’s on your shirt. And it’s in your heart,” Scott used to say, while pointing to the UNC logo on the court, per the report. Spiritual leader Bishop T.D. Jakes is embarking on a seven-day journey at sea with the first-ever Faith & Family Cruise, Nov. 9-16, that includes carving out time to be offline. Passengers will be encouraged to embrace solitude as a means of allowing God to steer their own ships of life. In addition to the beauty and serenity of the Caribbean islands, passengers will enjoy programming favorites from Jakes’ bi-annual international MegaFest event, such as panels featuring the Jakes family—Serita Jakes, Cora Jakes Coleman and Sarah Jakes Roberts—and other special guests; performances by recently engaged Kenny Lattimore, Jonathan Butler, Pretty Ricki and more; themed parties; and a variety of family games and entertainment. Warner Bros. has released a new trailer for “Just Mercy,” the powerful Michael B. Jordan film highlighting the themes of redemption, mercy and hope. Jordan stars as lawyer and social justice activist Bryan Stevenson. A Harvard Law School graduate, Stevenson takes his talents to Alabama to fight for those who were condemned for crimes they didn’t commit. The film is based on Stevenson’s 2014 book Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption. Jamie Foxx, Brie Larson, O’Shea Jackson Jr., Rob Morgan and Tim Blake Nelson also star in the forthcoming legal drama. https://youtu.be/dVJxMUqCUxs A woman accused of stabbing NFL wide receiver Terrelle Pryor was seen smirking in her booking photo. Shalaya Briston, 24, was arrested Saturday after she allegedly stabbed Pryor at his Pittsburgh apartment, police said. She was charged with attempted homicide and aggravated assault. A witness told police Pryor was the aggressor in the incident and was waiting for Briston as she returned from a night out with friends, TMZ Sports reported, citing court docs. The witness said Pryor and Briston fought and it went into the kitchen, where she allegedly took a knife and stabbed Pryor. Briston is being held at the Allegheny County Jail and her bail was denied. She has a hearing scheduled for later this month. Millions of people voted in an online poll in 2015 to have the face of Harriet Tubman on the US$20 bill. But many might not have known the story of her life as chronicled in a recent film, “Harriet.” Harriet Tubman worked as a slave, spy and eventually as an abolitionist. What is most fascinating is how belief in God helped Tubman remain fearless, even when she came face to face with many challenges. Over the holiday weekend, rapper Kanye West released his latest music video for “Closed on Sunday,” his pro-family song from his recent album Jesus is King. The video opens with Kanye and his wife, Kim Kardashian West, holding their four children—6-year-old North, 3-year-old Saint, 1-year-old Chicago, and 6-month-old Psalm—nestled into a rock crevice. https://youtu.be/MKM90u7pf3U Justin Bieber is owning his past mistakes. In an emotionally honest Instagram posted on Tuesday night, the “Sorry” singer owned the fact that he made racist comments when he was younger. And now, he’s trying to make up for those actions by using his platform for good. Sharing a photo that reads “STAND AGAINST RACISM” in bold grey lettering, the star wrote in his caption, “When I was young I was uneducated and found myself saying really hurtful things not knowing the power of my words. Racism Is still very prevalent and I want to use my voice to remind we are all human being and all of EQUAL VALUE BEFORE GOD!” TV ONE'S ORIGINAL FILM DEAR SANTA, I NEED A DATE STARRING RAY J AND REAGAN GOMEZ-PRESTON PREMIERES DECEMBER 8 AT 7 PM ET/6C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RTmvtqnDNUc&feature=youtu.be Multiple Award-winning recording artist, songwriter, and author,Richard Smallwood, released his memoir TOTAL PRAISE: THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY, with the Foreword written by Tony Award winner Phylicia Rashad on November 11, 2019, two weeks before his 71 birthday. In TOTAL PRAISE, Smallwood chronicles his life as a musician and composer and the highs and lows of his music career. He also shares his journey of love, loss, grief, and his bouts of depression, mental illness and his obsession with suicide. Dolly Parton is still achieving new dreams. On Wednesday, it was revealed that the country legend Dolly Parton, 73, has been nominated at the upcoming 2020 Grammy Awards for her recent work in the Christian music genre. Parton is up for best contemporary Christian music performance/song for her collaboration with for King & Country on the single, “God Only Knows,” as well as best song written for visual media for her track “Girl in the Movies” from the Dumplin’ soundtrack. In this week’s issue of PEOPLE, on newsstands Friday, the star opens up about her decision to start making Christian music. Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper on Tuesday fired head coach Ron Rivera, two days after an embarrassing 29-21 home loss to the two-win Washington Redskins. It was the Panthers’ third home loss this season to a team with a losing record. Secondary coach Perry Fewell has been named interim head coach. Offensive coordinator Norv Turner will transition to special assistant to the head coach, and quarterbacks coach Scott Turner will serve as offensive coordinator. Former Notre Dame running back and NFL player George Atkinson III has died at 27 nearly one year after his twin brother and former Fighting Irish teammate Josh committed suicide. Multiple reports have confirmed Atkinson’s passing, but no cause of death has yet been given. George III had ‘been dealing with depression since the death of his twin brother Josh roughly one year ago.’ George Atkinson III is survived by his two-year-old daughter. The twins are the sons of famed Oakland Raiders defensive back George Atkinson II. Josh also played defensive back in college, whereas George III was a running back and punt returner, who went on to have brief stints with the Cleveland Browns and the Raiders. A week long series of events will go down beginning Monday at Fellowship for Rev. Clay Evans with visitation and funeral services Friday and Saturday. A new statue of civil rights pioneer Rosa Parks was dedicated in Alabama’s capital city on Sunday, the 64th anniversary of her historic refusal to give up her seat on a public bus to a white man. Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed and Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey pulled back a cloth to unveil the statue before a crowd of about 400 spectators. The ceremony coincided with the anniversary of Parks’ Dec. 1, 1955 arrest that sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a pivotal part of the civil rights movement. Hester Ford is at least 114 years old. She was born in 1905, or maybe 1904 — no one’s quite sure, according to the Charlotte Observer’s news partner. She’s also the oldest living American as of Nov. 23. Ford succeeds Alelia Murphy, who died last weekend as the oldest living American at 114 years and 140 days old, CNN reported. Murphy was born in North Carolina but moved to New York City during the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s. Mayor Lori Lightfoot of Chicago has fired Chicago police chief Eddie Johnson. As of now, Eddie Johnson is no longer the police chief or Police Superintendent as he was formerly known because Mayor Lightfoot fired him Monday. Lightfoot canned Johnson with less than a month before he was due to retire … for allegedly lying about falling asleep in his car after ‘a few drinks’ in October. At a press conference, a furious Mayor Lightfoot accused Johnson of deliberately “misleading” her, the city and the police department about his claims in October. As was reported then, Johnson was found asleep behind the wheel of his car on October 17 at 12:30am after a member of the public called 911. When an officer approached him, he blamed his drowsiness on a mix-up with medication he was taking and said he had had a “few” drinks at dinner. He then gave the mayor the same story and said he had pulled over because it was the responsible thing to do. Johnson subsequently announced he would be retiring in December. RAY J SET TO APPEAR ON "THE WENDY WILLIAMS SHOW" ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3RD TO DISCUSS UPCOMING NEW TV ONE HOLIDAY FILM, DEAR SANTA, I NEED A DATE Tyler Perry will be a headline speaker at T.D. Jakes' International Leadership Summit next spring, a conference for visionaries, entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs and leaders to discover how to sharpen their intellectual curiosity to become intentional, game-changing leaders. Perry will lead a global think tank session on the power of ownership and creating your own brand. A world-renowned producer, director, actor, screenwriter, playwright, author, songwriter, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Perry is one of the most established artists in Hollywood, known for building his personal brand from the bottom up, attracting millions through his 22 feature films, 20 stage plays, 10 TV shows and New York Times best-selling book. Perry also owns one of the largest studios in the world, the former Fort McPherson army base situated on 330 acres. According to Jakes, Perry is "shifting the nation and Hollywood. You can beg people for an opportunity, or you can build your own. Perry has seized his opportunity and built his own empire. He is a stellar example that with the right mindset, anyone can overcome daunting obstacles to find success." Reach Records artist Lecrae, Andy Mineo and the 116 crew are celebrating the holidays in hip-hop style with the release of an ultimate Christmas bundle of their new album The Gift featuring three new tracks performed by the label’s artists. The re-release is now available and features new songs from some of Reach Records new artists like Wande, who is the first female now on their expanding roster. The 2018 release charted at No. 13 on iTunes Christian Albums Chart but the hip-hop label is looking to expand their reach with several new features as well as Hollyn, Andy Mineo and GAWVI. The bundle offer comes with a limited vinyl edition of the record. The 12-track album showcases re-imagined versions of the Christmas classics “Silent Night,” “Noel,” and “We Three Kings.” The Christ-centered album celebrates family and the birth of the Savior Jesus. The unmistakable acclaimed voice and songwriting gifts of multiple GRAMMY® winner Donnie McClurkin have made a hit impact on the charts again, as the Gospel icon’s latest album A Different Song, debuted at #1 on the Soundscan Current Gospel Albums chart. The new album also debuted at #2 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums chart. The eighth solo album from the prolific hitmaker, McClurkin delivers an invigorating performance on A Different Song, lifting listeners in keeping faith, hope, and strength in our lives. Celebrating the glory and ever-present love of God on our journey, A Different Song features eleven tracks including McClurkin’s powerful declarations on the lead singles “Not Yet” and “There Is God.” Jonathan Nelson returns with a fresh new single that is guaranteed to resonate with listeners everywhere! In “Jesus, I Love You” Nelson emphasizes that because of Jesus’ abundant love for His people, in return they should echo that same love back to Him. https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/W7D2RWK3FHlfQ04lrXILL Chance the Rapper is praising fellow entertainer Kanye West for his Gospel-infused music as well as his Sunday Service events, calling West’s work “more important” because of its spiritual nature. “It’s slightly more important because it’s doing what we’re supposed to do, shouting praise,” said Chance during a recent interview. “Seeing Kanye get all these people together reveal these songs of worship that have been around forever to people who may not know them. It’s an important thing that’s supposed to be happening right now and it’s dope that Ye is doing it.” There’s no doubt Kim Kardashian is an American sex symbol. Her brand is synonymous with the consumerism that has dominated the millennial era, but the famed socialite is going through what she has called an “awakening.” As her husband, entertainment mogul Kanye West, has openly and boldly converted to Christianity, the “Keeping Up with the Kardashians” star has slowly and quietly shifted some of her own behaviors. Most significantly, the often-scantily-clad TV personality said this week she plans to show less skin next year. Those who watch the Kardashians on TV remember when West confronted his wife over the sensual dress she wore to the Met Gala earlier this year. For award-winning artist Danny Gokey, the purpose and goal of his career is crystal clear. “My music is part of the Great Commission: ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation,’” he told The Christian Post. “It’s a goal I continually work toward. With each new record, I’ve tried to reach out to the churched and unchurched. I really try to do that with my music and get the Gospel message out in a way that’s fresh.” As the third-place finalist on the eighth season of “American Idol” in 2009, Gokey has seen tremendous success: He has several chart-topping albums, has been nominated for a Grammy, won a Dove Award, and this year took home “Male Artist of the Year” at the seventh annual K-LOVE Fan Awards. In June, his album Haven’t Seen It Yet hit No. 1 on the Billboard’s Christian Airplay chart. After appearing on “American Idol,” he signed to 19 Recordings and RCA Nashville for country music, releasing the single “My Best Days Are Ahead of Me.” Just two years later, he was dropped from the record label. The father-of-four said his rocky path to success showed him that ultimately, “God is in control of my career.” Lauren Daigle, who last month broke a Billboard record for her song “You Say,” has scored another musical milestone by garnering her fourth straight American Music Award in the “Favorite Artist—Contemporary Inspirational” category. Daigle was not at the Sunday award show but reached out to fans via Twitter. “Thanks to everyone who voted for the @amas! This year continues to be incredibly special and it is all because of YOU!!” she tweeted. ADRIANN LEWIS-FREEMAN releases her next single "YOU BEEN SO GOOD!" This up-beat, churchy, feel-good song reflects on how the Lord has been SO GOOD to her in her life, career, family and ministry! https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/Adriann-Lewis-Freeman-You-Been-So-Good-RADIO-DKpit9ZngLBfWm52ZJVFf The breakout hand-clapping churchy single by Larry D. Reid called “BETTER THAN EVER” HAS BEEN REMIXED! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHN0vQYABLA&feature=youtu.be The Rev. Clay Evans, a civil rights leader, influential evangelical broadcaster and gospel music icon, died Wednesday at 94. His death was announced by Rev. Charles Jenkins, pastor of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, the house of worship Rev. Evans founded after being ordained a minister in 1950. He served the church for half a century. Funnywoman Tiffany Haddish has a new stand-up comedy special coming from Netflix called “Black Mitzvah” and here is the first look preview. https://youtu.be/NnjJmpzW5Aw TAI BEAUCHAMP AND ELTON ANDERSON HEAD TO LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - THE CITY OF DREAMS - ON THE NEXT EPISODE OF LENS OF CULTURE AIRING SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30 AT 12 P.M./11C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3pvCa13rzI&feature=youtu.be Berry Gordy Jr., was accorded another place in history when the City of Los Angeles created and dedicated Berry Gordy Square in his honor. The square is located in Hollywood at the intersection of Sunset Blvd. and Argyle street which is the former location of Motown Records’ West Coast office. It’s where he relocated the company after moving operations in Los Angeles to expand his vision into television and film. Micayla De Ette is a Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter, worship leader, actress, model, and vocal coach. She has a 5-octave, classically trained voice that easily transitions into Gospel, R&B, and Blues. Micayla spent the early part of her career touring with acclaimed Gospel artist Eddie James and opening for many well-known artists including Kirk Franklin, Sandy Patti, Nicole C. Mullen, Salvador, Rebecca St. James and more. Fusing her vocal prowess with a love of theater, Micayla finds herself today releasing a new album and staring in the forthcoming feature film Hold On. https://vimeo.com/368055951/4d9b3a8144 Multiple award-winning singer, songwriter VaShawn Mitchell was honored yesterday in his hometown Chicago. In a special appearance on WGN Morning News, Founder and Chairman of the National Museum of Gospel Music, and Founder of the Stellar Awards, Don Jackson and WGN Entertainment Reporter Dean Richards, presented Mitchell with a Gold plaque commemorating 500,000 plus streams and sales of his timeless hit song “Nobody Greater.” Presented on behalf of the museum, and the Chicago gospel music community, Mitchell celebrated the milestone with a rousing performance of the hit song. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight!!! Hear VaShawn Mitchell In His Own Words.....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/vashawn_mitchell_intvw.htm Tyscot Records has signed a partnership agreement to release music by the Nashville-based DAF Entertainment Group’s DAF Gospel label. The first release is the radio single “You Been So Good” by Adriann Lewis-Freeman who rose to fame as the lead vocalist of gospel girl group, RiZen, which is known for hits such as “View the City” and “We’ve Come to Magnify the Lord.” Kim Cash Tate's debut music videos racking up over 500,000 views alone, best-selling author, lawyer, speaker, bible teacher, Kim Cash Tate is taking her next assignment as an artist by storm! "If I didn't Have You" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QqzJjTAIQjI According to TODAY, Christian rapper TobyMac is remembering his late son, Truett Foster McKeehan, as his family prepares for their first Thanksgiving since McKeehan’s death last month. TobyMac posted a series of emotional photos on Twitter and Instagram from the funeral for his son, an aspiring rapper who was found dead at age 21 on Oct. 23 at a home in Nashville, Tennessee. Café Mocha Radio’s Salute Her Awards presented by Toyota Tour Final Stop Spreads the ‘Gift of Love’ At the Riverside EpiCenter on December 6. Actress/Filmmaker Terri J. Vaughn and Café Mocha’s YoYo Co-Host an evening of Atlanta’s Black Hollywood Finest to pay tribute to NAACP Theater Award Actress Vanessa Bell Calloway, Atlanta Media Legend Karyn Greer, Motivational Guru Sheri Riley, NCNW Atlanta Founder/Leader Diane Larche and More The nation’s No. 1 team lost for the second time in three weeks as Duke fell to Stephen F. Austin, 85-83, in overtime at Cameron Indoor Stadium in Durham, N.C. Tuesday. The Lumberjacks stole a pass from Duke in the final seconds of overtime, and redshirt senior Nathan Bain rushed to the tin for a buzzer-beating layup as time expired. SHERYL LEE RALPH VISITS "THE REAL" on behalf of the 29th DIVAS Simply Singing! Wednesday, November 27th, 2019 Urban One, Inc. announced today that Ford Motor Company will serve as Presenting Sponsor of the annual Urban One Honors. The tribute event will take place on December 5, 2019, at the MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, MD. This is Ford's inaugural year as an Urban One Honors sponsor. The automaker will present a backstage pass segment hosted by celebrity influencer Tai Beauchamp, as part of its participation. Ford will also sponsor the Entertainment Icon Award, which will be presented to Oscar award-winning actor Jamie Foxx. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yBhJe-n2LEk&feature=youtu.be “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” starring Tom Hanks is now showing in theaters nationwide and gives viewers an inside look into how Fred Rogers helped others embrace their humanity and keep hope alive. Rogers attended Pittsburgh Theological Seminary where he was ordained as a Presbyterian minister in 1963 and worked in television for more than 30 years. Bill Isler, a longtime friend of Rogers and former president of the Fred Rogers Company, said “Mister Rogers Neighborhood” was a mission field for the Pennsylvania native. Tina Turner took to Twitter on Tuesday to wish herself a happy 80th birthday. The Private Dancer singer was feeling very grateful to be in such great health on her milestone birthday after weathering a stroke, intestinal cancer and kidney disease in recent years. ‘Yes, I’m 80,’ Turner began. ‘How did I think I would be at 80? Not like this. How is this? Well, I look great, I feel good, I’ve gone through some very serious sicknesses that I’m overcoming. So it’s like having a second chance at life. I’m happy to be an 80-year-old woman.’ Bohemian Rhapsody came under fire for various reasons – the behind-the-scenes controversy with director Bryan Singer, its less-than-subtle treatment of Freddie Mercury’s story – but it ended up earning more than $900 million worldwide and bagged star Rami Malek an Oscar. Producer Graham King’s GK Films is now hoping to replicate the success with a Michael Jackson biopic. While Jackson’s life is ideally suited to the drama of a biopic, the team will have to tread carefully when dealing with a variety of issues, including his traumatic road to child stardom, his eccentricities as an adult and the latter-life accusations of child sexual abuse, which have been the subject of a controversial HBO documentary. “Frozen 2” the Disney franchisee scored a stunning $127 million in its debut weekend, making it the third biggest opening for an animated movie. It took the first movie 13 days to make $100 million in 2013, over Thanksgiving weekend. The total domestic take was $400 million. The sequel already has a quarter of that in the bank. “Frozen 3” is being defrosted even as we speak. But the real box office story is “Harriet,” directed by Kasi Lemmons and starring Cynthia Erivo. The Focus Features film has raked in $36 million over 4 weeks. This weekend brought in another $2.3 million. The little movie has a following, great word of mouth, and Erivo in what should be an Oscar nominated performance. Human remains believed to be those of UFC heavyweight fighter’s missing stepdaughter Aniah Blanchard, 19, were discovered this morning in Alabama. The body was found on Monday in Macon County, more than a month after Blanchard was last seen alive at a convenience store in Auburn. Antwain Shamar Fisher, 35, of Montgomery, Alabama, who has a murder conviction stemming from an unrelated case, was taken into custody Friday on first-degree kidnapping charges in Blanchard’s disappearance last month. Earlier this month, police charged Fisher’s alleged accomplice, 29-year-old Ibraheem Yazeed, with kidnapping. In an arrest warrant filed with the court Monday, police said Fisher helped Yazeed by disposing of unspecified evidence and chauffeuring him around. Lamar Jackson is the quarterback nobody knew the NFL desperately needed. He’s the personification of a paradigm shift. For so long, the same old adage applied to quarterback play: “You must win from the pocket.” Why limit a quarterback when he can do it all? Enter Jackson. Monday night, the Baltimore Ravens quarterback became the first player in NFL history with at least four touchdown passes and 50-plus rushing yards in consecutive games, according to Elias Sports Bureau. He also became the youngest quarterback in NFL history with multiple five-passing-touchdown games in a single season. RCA Inspiration has garnered multiple hit rankings on Billboard’s Decade-End Gospel Charts for the 2010s, as history-making artists, albums, compilations, and singles have all continued to make an enduring impact over the past decade. Hezekiah Walker’s “Every Praise” garnered top honors on Hot Gospel Songs chart as the decade’s #1 Gospel song. Delivering ministry with live and studio releases, the Top Gospel Albums and Hot Gospel Songs of the decade include nine releases in the top ten spots honoring Kirk Franklin, Hezekiah Walker, Marvin Sapp, Travis Greene, Koryn Hawthorne and the WOW Gospel series. In addition to their works, among other perennial favorite artists include Donnie McClurkin, Donald Lawrence, Israel Houghton, Jason Nelson, Le’Andria Johnson and William Murphy. THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE INVITE THEIR MOMS TO SHOW OFF THEIR CULINARY SKILLS WITH GUESTS ACTOR STERLING K. BROWN, COMEDIAN/ACTRESS B. SIMONE, MONTEL JORDAN, NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON AND MANY MORE! Bill Cosby breaks his silence, granting his first exclusive interview since beginning his sentence at a maximum-security Pennsylvania penitentiary near Philadelphia. Today, in a special phone call with the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s BlackPressUSA.com, Cosby said he’s spending his time helping to teach and encourage a large population of African American inmates – men he calls residents — via Mann Up, a prison reform program. The 82-year-old educator and award-winning TV producer/director/comedian was sentenced to serve 3-to-10-years in Pennsylvania’s prison system following his September 2018 conviction on charges of aggravated indecent assault. Unless he receives relief from the state’s appellate courts, Cosby said he fully anticipates serving his entire sentence, saying he’s not guilty and will never admit to something he didn’t do. Displayed remorse is generally a required prerequisite to obtaining parole or a shortened sentence. During the exclusive interview with NNPA, Cosby was candid, vivid and outspoken. Kanye West only physically appeared onstage the Hollywood Bowl once Sunday during his so-called opera Nebuchadnezzar – for the climactic curtain call. West kept the LA audience waiting more than two hours for the one-night only show – technically classified as an oratorio – to begin. But the Sunday Service founder did narrate all of the action from highlighted pages of the Book of Daniel throughout the Biblical performance, which was streamed live on Tidal. Sister-in-law Kendall Jenner, Chance the Rapper and Brad Pitt were also all in the audience to lend their support to the rapper. Normally elusive on social media, Kanye tweeted all 12 pages of the sacred text for the viewing pleasure of his 29.4M following. Thousands of members of a local church mourned the loss of their pastor on Friday. Dr. Dimitri Bradley of City Church was killed in a car crash Wednesday night while coming home from service. People who knew Bradley have told 8News that he was a determined pastor whose message resonated with nearly everyone who heard it. The love for Dr. Bradley was felt on Friday as many came out to pray and support one another through the difficult time at City Church. https://www.facebook.com/rvacitychurch/videos/2517754738469000/ TV One gears up for the holiday season with a programming slate full of original movies, specials and marathons. In December, viewers can catch the premiere of TV One's original holiday film, DEAR SANTA, I NEED A DATE airing Sunday, December 8 at 7 p.m. ET/6C, immediately followed by an encore presentation at 9 p.m. ET. The romantic comedy stars Ray J, Reagan Gomez-Preston, Anne-Marie Johnson, Reginae Carter and many more. Gospel Spotlight Exclusive!!! Hear Ann Marie Johnson In Her Own Words...http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/annmariejohnson_intvw.htm Four Syracuse University students have been suspended for allegedly yelling the N-word at a black woman, as the campus continued to be convulsed by a string of shocking racial incidents. Syracuse Chancellor Kent Syverud announced the suspensions Wednesday night in an address to the university senate, saying the disciplinary measure stemmed from a verbal altercation outside a fraternity on Saturday. It follows a rash of racist graffiti, a swastika found drawn in a snow bank, and an email telling a Jewish professor to ‘get in the oven.’ Damon Dash was arrested in connection with $404,000 in unpaid child support to ex-wife Rachel Roy and ex-girlfriend Cindy Morales on Wednesday in his native New York City. Dash, 48, was handcuffed and taken to Bronx Family Court amid a pair of felony warrants, the New York City Sheriff’s Office reported. Authorities had been ‘looking to arrest [Dash] since 2015,’ as a warrant was issued in April of that year over $62,000 he owed Morales. Earlier this year, another warrant was issued over a contempt of court conviction, with the court ordering him to pay an additional $342,000. Jay-Z seemed to take issue with the way Colin Kaepernick’s workout for the NFL unfolded Saturday. The rapper and mogul believed Kaepernick turned his “legitimate workout” into a publicity stunt. Jay-Z pressured the NFL into hastily putting the workout together in order to repair his own public image, according to Dan Patrick — Jay-Z said he “took a reputational bullet” after signing a deal with the NFL to help with social justice efforts, per Patrick’s reporting. Kaepernick was originally supposed to workout at the Atlanta Falcons’ training facility in Flowery Branch, Georgia. The 32-year-old instead opted to workout in front of teams at a high school in Atlanta after the NFL would not allow media into his session at the Falcons’ facility. Boston Celtics point guard Kemba Walker is recovering from “concussion-like symptoms” after a scary head-on collision with a teammate left him being carried off on a stretcher halfway through Friday night’s game against the Denver Nuggets. Walker was trying to control a pass he deflected with just over three minutes left in the second quarter when he appeared to lose balance and run, with his head down, straight in the abdomen of Semi Ojeleye. Onlookers feared that Walker might have sustained a significant neck injury based on the way he collided with Ojeleye but the Celtics tweeted out shortly after that he has been diagnosed with “concussion-like symptoms.” Princess Love is “done” in her marriage to Ray J after claiming the rapper “abandoned” her and their 17-month-old daughter Melody in Las Vegas after attending the Soul Train Awards over the weekend, despite her being about to give birth to their second child. The pregnant Princess Love took to her Instagram Live Thursday to declare, “I don’t want to be married anymore. Period. I don’t have time for this. This is not love. And I’m done.” The Love & Hip Hop star explained that she and Ray J had been fighting for weeks after she discovered he had a second phone, which she claims had been used for “entertaining some women.” Trying to work through the discovery for the good of their family, the pair headed to Las Vegas for the weekend to attend the award show, which is where another major fight broke out. SMILE! An early Christmas present from Tasha Cobbs Leonard, her debut album "Smile." Go give it some love everywhere you get your music, and don't forget to SMILE. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqatpc1mQyo&list=PLlg2WY8jJNAcq0nDjTaHmOvNG12QldpBZ&index=3&t=0s&utm_campaign=33974_MOTG+11.22_231797_US&utm_source=dotmailer&utm_medium=email After topping all three gospel radio charts with their feature on "VICTORY" by Fred Jerkins feat. Last Call, these two gentlemen from Bermuda step out with their own single "NO GREATER LOVE" https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/LAST-CALL-NO-GREATER-LOVE-RADIO-hcTDtTzKsjB2syCB0T6Eo TAI BEAUCHAMP AND ELTON ANDERSON REDEFINE HIP HOP DURING THEIR TRIP TO HARLEM, NEW YORK ON THE NEXT EPISODE OF LENS OF CULTURE AIRING SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21 AT 12 P.M./11C https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqLCBfAlQjY&feature=youtu.be An AMC theater in Louisiana has fired three staff members after an women’s group accused them of racial profiling during a screening of “Harriet.” According to the Daily Mail, members of volunteer group, 504 Queens (all Black women), claim three staff members separately approached them during the two-hour film and repeatedly made them verify their ticket purchases. The women were also harassed by a kitchen worker, who paused the film and turned up all the theater lights to check their tickets during an evening screening of the film on Sunday, November 3. https://youtu.be/7PmB4yyAQCc This is Regina King’s season. The Oscar, Emmy and Golden Globe award-winning star’s string of wins—including as an actress, producer and director—exemplifies what is possible when you master your craft and stay the course. Her body of work not only spans decades but also defies genres, including her latest turn as Angela Abar (aka “Sister Night”) in the HBO series, Watchmen. In ESSENCE’s December issue cover story, The King of QueensThe King of Queens, King talks to ESSENCE’s West Coast editor Regina R. Robertson about why this year belongs to her, her longevity and how she plays her “queen” position in Hollywood flawlessly. GRAMMY®-nominated worship leader and hitmaker William Murphy releases his live performance video for “Same Grace,” available now. The moving single is a reminder that the same grace that God extended in our past is still available to us in present times. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdRHNILc4H0 CLEO TV gears up for the holiday season with two new shows HEART OF THE BATTER with Jordin Sparks premiering on Saturday, November 23 at 1 PM ET/12C and ALL THINGS ADRIENNE with Adrienne Houghton premiering on Saturday, November 30 at 1:30 PM ET/12:30C. During 112th annual Holy Convocation of the Church of God in Christ (COGIC), a historic step was taken to consecrate the office of the “Bishop of Israel”. The General Assembly of COGIC earlier this year voted unanimously and enthusiastically, accompanied by a standing ovation, to ratify the decision of Presiding Bishop Blake and the General Board to appoint Dr. Glenn R. Plummer as their first Bishop of Israel. Bishop Plummer was publicly consecrated on November 10, 2019 by Presiding Bishop Charles E. Blake to the sacred office of Bishop of Israel. A trio of contemporary Christian artists lead nominations for the genre at the 2020 Grammy Awards. Australian duo for KING & COUNTRY, gospel mainstay Kirk Franklin and Christian pop singer Danny Gokey score two nominations each to the upcoming ceremony. Oprah Winfrey is hitting the road and coming to major cities around the United States. The mogul will embark on her 2020 Vision: Your Life in Focus tour beginning in Florida, January 4. The shows will feature a different famous guest for each stop as the tour aims to ‘make 2020 the year of renewal and celebrate all we are meant to be,’ for audience members. Shows will be held every Saturday from January until the beginning of March, with nine total. Guests will include Michelle Obama, Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga and of course Oprah’s best friend and “CBS This Morning” anchor, Gayle King. It was set to be a flagship release from Apple and was scheduled to be the closing-night film of the AFI Fest in LA Thursday night. But on Wednesday, Apple decided to cancel the screening of the drama starring Anthony Mackie, Samuel L. Jackson and Nicholas Hoult due to ‘concerns’ about the movie which is based on a true story. Today, RCA Inspiration has Grammy Nominations in the Best Gospel Performance / Song category Kirk Franklin (“Love Theory”), Travis Greene featuring Jekalyn Carr (“See the Light”) and Koryn Hawthorne featuring Natalie Grant (“Speak The Name”). In the Best Gospel Album category, Franklin, Donald Lawrence and William Murphy received nominations for their albums LONG LIVE LOVE, GOSHEN – Donald Lawrence Presents the Tri-City Singers and Settle Here respectively. The 62nd Annual GRAMMY® Awards will air live from the Staples Center in Los Angeles on Sunday, January 26, 2020 on CBS. Hezekiah Walker's anthem "Every Praise" is named Billboard's Gospel Song of the Decade! https://www.billboard.com/articles/business/chart-beat/8543756/decade-in-charts-2010s-gospel Motown Gospel joins the music community in celebrating nominations for two of its artists—Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Gene Moore—in the 62nd Annual GRAMMY® Awards. GRAMMY® winner Tasha Cobbs Leonard earns her fourth nomination for her worship anthem, “This Is A Move (Live),” in the Best Gospel Performance/Song Category. Gene Moore also earns his first GRAMMY® nod for his sophomore album, Tunnel Vision. The project’s lead single, “Won’t Be Moved,” (co-written by BJ the Chicago Kid and Cedric “Ced” Smith) continues to climb the radio charts, with Moore recently wrapping his participation on two legs of India.Arie’s Worthy Tour and labelmate Brian Courtney Wilson’s Just B(e) Tour. The 62nd Annual GRAMMY Awards will air live on CBS on Sunday, January 26, 2020 from Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA. Authorities have closed an investigation into allegations that Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church mishandled millions of dollars in donations given to them after nine of their members were killed in a mass shooting, clearing the church of wrongdoing. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division recently opened an investigation into claims by a former employee that Emanuel AME was mishandling donations given to the church following the 2015 mass shooting by white supremacist Dylann Roof. Tommy Crosby, spokesman for the state Law Enforcement Division, told CNN that investigators “completed their review” and found “no evidence” of financial misconduct. Emanuel AME Pastor Eric Manning stated that his church “has always handled donations in a way that they were intended” and thanked “SLED for their attention to this issue.” Michelle Obama — former first lady, best-selling author and “world’s most admired woman” — can now add a new accolade to her resume: Grammy nominee. The Grammy nominations were announced on “CBS This Morning” Wednesday, and Mrs. Obama is nominated for best spoken word album for the audio version of her memoir “Becoming.” Fellow nominees in the category include members of the Beastie Boys and actor-director John Waters. “Becoming” is on track to be the best-selling memoir ever. Kanye West just weeks after the release of his gospel album “Jesus is King,” the megastar rapper has announced he will release a second part to the record, “Jesus is King Part II.” Issuing the news via Twitter, West revealed that the second installment would feature renowned rapper and producer, Dr. Dre. While the pair have worked with several of the same artists over the years, this will be the first time they have teamed up together for a project. The Colorado Baptist General Convention held its annual meeting with the theme “Forward Together.” The meeting focused on churches uniting as a network in an increasingly divided world. A major highlight from the meeting was the election of new president John Moreland the convention’s first African American president. Moreland is pastor of Denver Christian Bible Church. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Jussie Smollett wants the City of Chicago to know he’s not going away quietly because he’s taking legal action. The actor who found fame on Fox’s “Empire” says his lawsuit will show how Chi-town officials created a narrative that he was the mastermind of a hoax attack, and that has cost him dearly. In the lawsuit, obtained by TMZ, Smollett notes the Osundairo brothers were held for 47 hours and they adamantly denied any involvement in the assault. He says it was only after they were assured they’d get immunity that they started spinning the tale of a fake attack on the streets of Chicago. Smollett still insists the primary attacker was a white male. He says to this day he doesn’t know what involvement, if any, the Osundairo brothers had in the attack. He thinks the brothers were lured into the smear campaign by cops. Jussie is suing the City, the Osundairo brothers and several officials, including Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson. Wide receiver Antonio Brown posted an apology to New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft on Instagram on Tuesday. Brown wrote: “Mr. Kraft I apologize sincerely to you and your organization! All I wanted to be was an asset to the organization; sorry for the bad media and the drama ! Thank you sincerely AB.” A 16-year-old girl has been arrested after authorities discovered her plan to kill people at a predominantly black church in Hall County. The teen, who is white, planned to attack the Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, according to Gainesville police. Students at Gainesville High School told school administrators that the girl had a notebook with “detailed plans to commit murder” at the church. Administrators notified school resource officers of the plan Friday and opened an investigation. They verified the threat and turned the investigation over to Gainesville police, who took the girl into custody. Her name has not been released. The teen was charged with criminal attempt to commit murder and taken to the Gainesville Regional Youth Detention Center. The 759 registered messengers to the South Carolina Baptist Convention’s 199th Annual Meeting made history Nov. 12 by electing a Simpsonville pastor as the first African American to serve as president. Meeting at the Church at the Mill in Moore, under the theme “Engage,” South Carolina Baptists were challenged by keynote speakers — Brentwood, Tenn., pastor Mike Glenn; Chattanooga, Tenn., pastor Micah Fries; Jacksonville, Fla., pastor H.B. Charles Jr.; and Edgar Aponte of Lutz, Fla., — to actively engage the culture, the lost, the nations and the future. Josh Powell, pastor of Lake Murray Baptist Church in Lexington, will lead the South Carolina Baptist Convention in 2020. Powell has served the past 12 months as president-elect. He officially assumed the office of president at the conclusion of this year’s meeting. Halle Berry made explosive claims about her ex Gabriel Aubry, accusing him of incest, racism and emotional abuse during their fight over custody of daughter Nahla, back at the turn of the decade. New details have come to light about the case through documents obtained by Radar.com which were originally sealed by courts. In the explosive legal documents from the 2011 case, the actress made several shocking claims about her ex. Berry, 53, and Aubry engaged in a bitter public custody battle after their split in 2010. The couple began dating in 2005 and welcomed daughter Nahla in March 2008. Among Berry’s claims about Aubry: She reported he used racial epithets during their relationship, in addition to displaying bias by refusing to recognize their daughter as biracial. She also discussed Gabriel’s past sexual relationship with a member of his family, contending that the emotional damage from that situation ruined her and Aubry’s sex life. Suspended running back Mark Walton was released by the Miami Dolphins on Tuesday after being arrested for allegedly punching his pregnant girlfriend in the head – his fourth booking of 2019. The South Florida Sun Sentinel reported that the 22-year-old was arrested after allegedly hitting the expectant mother of his child. The woman, who is five weeks pregnant, was left with a swollen left eye, according to the report. The Dolphins released him within seven hours of his arrest. Walton needs to appear before a judge before he can be released because he is facing a domestic violence charge. Walton was in the midst of a four-game suspension for violating the league’s conduct and substance abuse policies. He would have been eligible to return December 8 against the New York Jets. The Cincinnati Bengals waived Walton in April after his third arrest of 2019. 6 Time Gospel Music Stellar Award Nominated Artist, Producer and Songwriter, James Johnson drops "Through It All." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PP5WUwTbRLA&feature=youtu.be Appearances by music icon Kirk Franklin and gospel music superstar Le’Andria Johnson were highlights of BET Presents: 2019 Soul Train Awards, which aired live on BET and BET HER on Sunday, November 17th. The fourteen-time GRAMMY® winning Franklin took home the Best Gospel / Inspirational Award. Franklin stirred up the crowd with his moving acceptance speech imploring the audience to not give up on their gifts. He said, “…what’s inside of you is like grandma’s greens. So don’t give up, your time is coming.” Franklin also presented Yolanda Adams with the fifth annual Lady of Soul Award. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xO-ypr-RE8. Le'Andria Johnson, a perennial fan favorite and never one to disappoint, delivered a show-stopping mash-up performance of Aaliyah’s “One in a Million,” Erykah Badu’s “Tyrone,” and her own hit, “Better Days,” during the show’s popular “Soul Cypher” segment, which also featured Badu, Keyshia Cole, Robert Glasper, Anthony Hamilton and Carl Thomas. Watch the “Soul Cypher” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BErH87RCwns. New Music "Amazing" 4G, Feat. Canton Jones and Terrance Raby https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/4G-Feat.-Canton-Jones-and-Terrance-Raby-AMAZING-Radio-v17tGmxHCPp7sE3WHMkcE During the culmination of Pastor Donnie McClurkin’s 60th Birthday all Star Tribute Concert, and Celebration; Pastor McClurkin began singing “Changed”, in homage to the legendary Tramaine Hawkins. This lead to a mic toss of epic proportion, featuring Lady Tramaine Hawkins, Pastor Marvin L Winans, Erica Campbell, and Kierra Sheard! On September 15, 2019, Bishop Marvin L. Sapp became the Senior Pastor of The Chosen Vessel Cathedral in Forth Worth, Texas. He has accepted the personal request of Bishop Richard E. Young to assume this role. The installation of Bishop Marvin L. Sapp as the Senior Pastor of The Chosen Vessel Cathedral took place Sunday, November 17, 2019. https://youtu.be/2k3XL0VqA-Q Critically acclaimed choir Chico Robinson and God’s Chosen (GC) deliver hope via the medium of music for the people in Glory Day, their inaugural nationally distributed offering through Enon Music Group. Renowned songwriter, singer and beloved gospel artist Kathy Taylor returns with an all-new song “God Is With Us.” This new single featuring her vocal ensemble Favor, is their first in 10 years and advances their forthcoming album CONFIDENCE. “God Is With Us, serves as an essential reminder of God’s constant faithfulness, and love. This on-time song is exactly what is needed for today’s culture. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MMB3Fj9Iuvk Christian actress Tamera Mowry-Housley, Hallmark Channel’s new star. The 41-year-old confirmed that she is producing and starring in A Christmas Miracle—her first ever Christmas movie for the family-friendly network. The Emmy Award-winning entertainer's movie debuted Thursday, November 14, 2019 with co-stars Brooks Darnell and Barry Bostwick. “A Christmas Miracle is filled with so much heart, warmth, strength and love,” said the co-host of the daytime talker “The Real.” Additionally, Holly Robinson Peete will star in Hallmark Channel’s Christmas In Evergreen: Tidings of Joy Saturday, Dec. 14 at 8 pm and Patti Labelle will be featured in A Family Christmas Gift airing Friday, Dec. 20 at 9 pm. Kanye West has announced his first-ever opera, Nebuchadnezzar. West took to Twitter earlier today to post artwork of a golden program featuring an engraving of the titular Babylonian king. The opera is directed by Italian performance artist Vanessa Beecroft and will take place at the Hollywood Bowl on November 24. The event will also feature music by Kanye’s Sunday Service performers, as well as Peter Colins & Infinities Song. Gospel legend Fred Hammond asserts he has no problem working with Kanye West despite the Chicago rapper’s enthusiastic support of Donald Trump. “I have no concern who he voted for, or who he supports,” Hammond told TMZ. “Because to be honest with you, I have Christian friends—pastors and leaders—who truly support Trump. And I have those that are not supporters of Trump. He went on to say he felt Kanye was sincere about his faith and was confident that he could praise God with the artist. https://youtu.be/vq2f-Bxo928 The season finale of TV One’s original auto-biographical series UNCENSORED highlights actress Paula Patton on Sunday, November 17 at 9 p.m. ET/8C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GJP68svGrjg&feature=youtu.be Asking herself some introspective questions birthed the idea for gospel singer Erica Campbell’s new book, “More Than Pretty.” She also discusses her new single, “Praying and Believing,” and says being a Christian does not mean you’re a conservative. https://youtu.be/vAOd9nQ9jIA Former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg admitted he was wrong to support the “stop and frisk” police practice that ensnared disproportionate numbers of blacks and Latinos, apologizing to a largely African-American church Sunday as he weighs a presidential bid. “I was wrong. And I am sorry,” Bloomberg told the Christian Cultural Center describing the center as a black megachurch. His reversal comes as he considers whether to compete for the Democratic nomination for president, a contest in which African-American voters are highly influential. Bloomberg told the congregation the policy eroded trust with the public and he aimed to earn back that trust, the Times reported. The Nov. 12-14 national poll found that 3% of Democrats and independents said they would vote for Bloomberg. Kanye West told parishioners at Joel Osteen’s Houston megachurch on Sunday that his recent spiritual awakening has made him realize he’s no longer in the service to fame and money but “in service to God.” West spoke to a packed crowd of about 16,000 people at Lakewood Church’s 11 a.m. service during an interview with Osteen from the stage. West told the parishioners about his recent conversion to Christianity and how God has been guiding him. https://youtu.be/xQA4PJ-c-Yw Harrison Dillard won gold in the 110-meter hurdles, becoming the only man to win Olympic gold as a sprinter and hurdler, a triumph that led him to match Owens for wins. Mr. Dillard, 96, one of the most dominant runners of his generation who was a four-time Olympic gold medalist and the oldest living US Olympic champion, died Nov. 15 in a Cleveland hospital. The cause was stomach cancer. The SBC of Virginia made history when messengers elected by acclamation Allen McFarland to serve as their next president. McFarland, senior pastor of Calvary Evangelical Baptist Church in Portsmouth, Va., will be the convention’s first African American president. “I was encouraged to see that God is calling us to be a good testimony through biblically addressing unrighteousness, abusiveness, racial, economic, and social unfairness,” said McFarland. Kanye West has followed the Johnny Cash route and performed for inmates at a Houston jail. In secret from the public, the star rapper-turned-gospel singer performed songs Friday from his new gospel album “Jesus is King.” He and his choir performed for more than 200 male inmates at one jail facility before crossing the street to another jail facility and performing for a smaller crowd of female inmates. The Friday concerts were performed two days before West is to speak at Joel Osteen’s vast Lakewood Church in Houston. The events were reminiscent of prison concerts given by country singer Johnny Cash in California. https://youtu.be/fQIUPjQx16s Award-winning Christian singer Danny Gokey suffered second and third degree burns to his feet last weekend ahead of a performance for his Hope Encounter Tour. ?The “American Idol” alum was injured when a wardrobe steamer hot water reservoir tipped over and scalded his feet. Concert promoter Mike Alley posted a message on Instagram praising the singer for caring more about the fans than his injuries. IT'S UNITED WE BARGAIN, DIVIDED WE BEG" AS TAI BEAUCHAMP AND ELTON ANDERSON HEAD TO ONE OF THE BIGGEST SHOPPING CAPITALS OF THE WORLD IN ACCRA, GHANA ON THE NEXT EPISODE OF LENS OF CULTURE. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqLCBfAlQjY&feature=youtu.be IT'S A DYNAMIC LINEUP ON NEXT WEEK'S SISTER CIRCLE WITH RADIO HOST WILLIE MOORE, JR., TV/FILM STARS KIM FIELDS AND KESHIA KNIGHT PULLIAM PLUS MANY MORE! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCj48sjQzrI Patrick Dopson has become one of Gospel music's most eminent and anointed voices. The Stellar Award winner and Dove Award-nominated artist hasn't released new music since the radio single "God Is" in 2014. Patrick returns from a 5-year hiatus of recording with a more fervent zeal for life and ministry, and a new single and personal declaration "God Is Able". "God Is Able" is more than a new song for Patrick. After a few years of a series of tumultuous circumstances, he believed God was, once again, calling him to release music from his place of brokenness to declare with conviction that GOD IS ABLE. https://sc.lnk.to/PDgia-s2 Ben Tankard is the best-selling Gospel/Jazz Artist of all-time, a 15-time Stellar Award winner and a Stellar Music Hall of Fame inductee. He has sold 15 Gold and 6 Platinum records and has earned numerous Dove, Grammy, Soul Train Award nominations and a 2019 NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Jazz Recording. This year marked his first #1 on the Smooth Jazz Airplay Chart and Mediabase Smooth Jazz Radio Chart with his single "Rise". As a licensed pilot who owns his own airplanes, Tankard took to the sky for his "RISE" Spring Summer Small Church Tour. He is now preparing for the 2020 portion of his 200-city “Rise” Small Church tour. His tour is sponsored by Shell Aviation and Walmart, which enables Tankard, who is also an honorary Tuskegee Airman, to fly himself to appearances at smaller venues and areas that normally would not be able to afford to book an A-list artist. Charles Rogers, the celebrated Michigan State wide receiver and Detroit Lions, has died, according to the teams. He was 38. “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Charles Rogers. From Saginaw, to East Lansing, to Detroit, Charles’ connection to the state of Michigan and its football community was felt by many during the course of his life,” a statement from the Lions said. “We extend our heartfelt sympathies and condolences to his friends and family during this difficult time.” Rogers played only 15 games over three seasons with the Lions, who drafted him with the second overall pick in 2003. He was released in 2006 after injuries and suspensions for substance abuse. But he was regarded as one of the best receivers during his time at Michigan State, where he was a 2002 All-American and during the same year earned a Biletnikoff Award, which is given to college football’s top receiver. Former Super Bowl MVP Nick Foles said he has grown spiritually while recovering from an injury and rejects the prosperity gospel. Foles has been sitting out for nearly two months after suffering a clavicle injury in his first game as the starting quarterback for the Jacksonville Jaguars. An outspoken Christian who hopes to one day become a pastor after he hangs up his cleats, he spoke to reporters on Wednesday as he is anticipated to make his return to game action this Sunday for the first time since he broke his collarbone in the first week of season. Myles Garrett will not play again this season, and maybe longer. The NFL announced Friday that the Cleveland Browns defensive end has been suspended for the rest of this season, including the playoffs should the Browns make it, and will have to meet with the commissioner’s office before being reinstated in 2020. Garrett ripped the helmet off Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph and clubbed him in the head with it in the final seconds of Thursday night’s game. “Last night, I made a terrible mistake,” Garrett said in a statement issued Friday. “I lost my cool and what I did was selfish and unacceptable. I know that we are all responsible for our actions, and I can only prove my true character through my actions moving forward. Michael White releases his first Christmas album THE SAVIOR IS HERE. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYLyOTw_xOk&feature=youtu.be Christian hip-hop pioneer KJ-52, whose real name is Jonah Kirsten Sorrentino, took to Instagram this month to share a list of reasons why he’s hanging up his rap hat. To date, Sorrentino has listed six reasons on the social media platform explaining why it makes sense for him to end his KJ-52 brand. He shared a different reason every few days. The Tampa, Florida, resident will be producing one final KJ-52 album/tour and book but assured his fans there will still be music. He said his end goal is to transition from road life to full-time church ministry after 20 years as a performer. Pop singer Ellie Goulding said she will now perform at the Dallas Cowboys’ Thanksgiving Day halftime show after threatening to pull out unless the Salvation Army, a faith-based nonprofit organization, made a “solid, committed pledge or donation to the LGBTQ community.” The British singer threatened to pull out of the halftime show after her fans wrongly claimed that the Salvation Army discriminates against the LGBT community. The annual Thanksgiving Day game promotes the Cowboys’ “Red Kettle Kickoff,” which raises money and brings awareness to the Salvation Army’s annual holiday initiative, the red kettle campaign. The campaign seeks to provide shelter and meals for the homeless as well as gifts for children during the holiday season. Losing something important – car keys, cell phone, computer, wallet – can do more than ruin your day if not found quickly or at all. So, now there is Gotcha, a new GPS tracking device, that will help keep your life in order and your mind at ease. Officially launched in October 2019, the device which, you can buy now, is the first product released from Taylor Baloney’s tech startup, Find My Everything, Inc. It’s actually a physical device and it works with an app,” Baloney said. “So, you would hook it on to whatever you want to trace – yourself, purse, or backpack. Then you would sync it to the app (that uses) GPS technology to find whatever you want. It uses real time tracking, meaning you can see where (an item) is going.” She continued, “Another feature for safety is the SOS button. So, if somebody is in distress, they can press the button and it will send a direct single to the number that is programmed with the device. Mo’Nique is still mad at Netflix for doing business with her the way she wants them to do it. And she’s gonna do something about it. The comedian/actress has lawyered up and is taking her accusations against Netflix for discrimination to court. In the suit, she’s accusing the entertainment conglomerate of race-based discrimination because of how it negotiated a comedy special with her. She says Netflix offered Amy Schumer $11 million for an hour-long stand-up special (she eventually got $13 mil), but only offered Mo’Nique $500,000 for her stand-up special. Cathy Hughes, Urban One Founder and Chairwoman, today announced the honorees, performers and presenters for the prestigious annual URBAN ONE HONORS event Thursday, December 5, 2019, at MGM National Harbor Oxon Hill, Maryland. The two-hour telecast will air on TV One January 20, 2020, the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. This year's honorees music executive Sylvia Rhone (Lifetime Achievement Award); Missy Elliott (Music Innovation Award); Jamie Foxx (Entertainment Icon Award); and Ryan Jamaal Swain (Represent Pride Award). Performers include: Ne-Yo, Wale, Brandy, Eric Benét; Pastor Charles Jenkins, Jac Ross and Egypt Sherrod. Billy Porter and Clarence Avant are among the show's presenters. “I’m so excited and proud to introduce my family to the world. My Block Inc. is a collective of amazing creatives from all walks of life coming together to share a message of Faith, Hope and Love. You’re all invited to press play and ride with us.” Warryn Campbell drops new compilation on My Block. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight!!! Hear Warryn Campbell In His Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/warryn_campbell_intvw.htm Friday 11.15.19 Latice Crawford premieres the video for her new single "Amazing" The NFL has arranged a private workout for free-agent quarterback Colin Kaepernick in Atlanta this weekend, and all teams are invited to attend. The league sent a memo to all 32 teams Tuesday inviting them to the workout Saturday that will include a series of drills on the field as well as an interview. Videos of the workout and interview also will be made available to teams, the report states. Oprah Winfrey, Whoopi Goldberg, Spike Lee and more hit the red carpet for the opening of The Tina Turner Musical at the Lunt-Fontanne Theater in New York. https://youtu.be/i2UtyqorJO4 LeBron James' life gets comic book treatment. In what is expected to be his biggest “Sunday Service” audience yet, rapper Kanye West will be joining megachurch pastor Joel Osteen at his Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, Sunday for a conversation that promises to be epic. Sources with knowledge of the planned appearance told TMZ that West is expected to chat with Osteen for about 20 to 30 minutes during the church’s 11 a.m. service. Sources say Joel wants his congregation — 45,000 strong — and his TV audience — 10 million in the U.S. alone — to hear how Kanye has overcome significant adversity in his life.” TMZ noted. “As one source put it, ‘Kanye used to be about nothing greater than himself. Now it’s all about a higher power.’” The outlet further noted that both West and Osteen have been talking quite often recently, particularly since West has continued to profess his devotion to God. “Why are we here in 2019 — when it’s not exactly the coolest thing in the world to be a Christian … when it seems like there’s a generation growing up that in no way really wants to follow the purposes of God?” asked Bible teacher Christine Caine to the 1,600 women gathered for the opening session of the 2019 LifeWay Women’s Leadership Forum. Teaching the leaders gathered Nov. 7-9 from 30 states and Canada, Caine spoke from Deuteronomy 6. She underscored that God took those people into Canaan, a place where they could flourish and live victorious lives, and His plan is to do the same for this generation of believers. The theme for the 2019 LifeWay Women’s Leadership Forum was “Flourish” with Acts 12:24, “But the word of God flourished and multiplied,” as the focus Scripture passage. Walt Disney Co’s long-awaited debut in the streaming media wars on Tuesday was hit with technical glitches that the company said were caused by higher-than-expected demand as it takes on rival Netflix Inc. It was unclear how many people successfully signed up and how many had difficulty accessing the $7-a-month Disney+, which features roughly 500 movies and 7,500 TV episodes from the company’s deep family entertainment catalog as well as new programming. But investors appeared to welcome the comment that interest had topped Disney’s forecasts. Disney shares rose about 1.2% to $138.48, while Netflix dropped 1.2% to $290.58 in afternoon trading. Placing his left hand on a Bible and his right hand in the air, Steven Reed made history Tuesday morning, reciting the oath of office to become Montgomery’s 57th mayor and its first of African-American descent. https://youtu.be/ONMYP_fHwR4 Café Mocha Radio & Majic 94.5 Salute Her Awards Presented by Toyota rolls into Dallas on the heels of successful celebrations in D.C., New York City and Charlotte. Joining the prestigious ‘class’ of 2019 honorees is honoree Erica Campbell, whose new “Praying and Believing,” is an apt theme song for this year’s honorees that represent an exceptional class of women of faith. In addition to the five-time Grammy winner other honorees include Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Retired Sergeant First Class Adrienne Evans-Quickley, American Airlines Co-Brand Partnerships and Engagement Executive Stacey Dickson, Yoga N Da Hood Founder Ebony Smith, Tiger House Hat Shop owner and domestic abuse survivor Virginia Montgomery and Cheryl Polote Williamson whose Soul Reborn movement focuses on transforming the lives of disadvantaged, disenfranchised and previously incarcerated women. Former first lady Michelle Obama is politically minded. Mrs. Obama is revealing her new celeb-packed “voting squad” whose purpose is encouraging Americans to head to the polls in 2020. “Last year, we went big. Millions of new voters made their voices heard for the first time. Now the stakes are even higher,” Obama says in a video that’s part of her When We All Vote campaign. Tom Hanks, “Hamilton’s” Lin-Manuel Miranda as well as TV producer Shonda Rhimes, soccer pro Megan Rapinoe and singers Faith Hill, Selena Gomez and Janelle Monáe are all on board. After a four year hiatus, Keyshia Cole makes a highly anticipated return to BET, to share her new life. BET’s produced four highly watched docu-series following Cole’s life over the years, including “Keyshia Cole: The Way It Is,” “Keyshia & Daniel: Family First,” “Keyshia Cole: All In,” and most recently the spin-off show following the lives of her mother and sister “ Frankie & Neffe.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jk-k7we0Qg4&feature=youtu.be Erica Campbell, gospel star and one-half of the duo Mary Mary, believes Kanye West is sincere about his gospel album ‘Jesus is King.’ She also says he may be encouraging younger gospel artists to be more confident about their music. https://youtu.be/47CezZ-LoSI ; O.J. Simpson is suing a Las Vegas hotel-casino that banned him in November 2017, alleging that unnamed employees defamed him by telling a celebrity news site he had been drunk, disruptive and unruly. Simpson, on parole in Nevada for a 2008 conviction for armed robbery and assault with a weapon, filed the lawsuit Thursday against Nevada Property 1 LLC, corporate owner of the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. The complaint acknowledges that Simpson, after several hours with two friends at a steakhouse and a lounge in November 2017, received a notice from a security guard as they left. It prohibited him from returning to the Las Vegas Strip property. He says he was never given a reason. Kanye West was in NYC for several events and made news by saying he’ll run for office in 2024 and wants Black athletes to not play for a week to free a death row inmate. He also urged black Americans to not vote Democratic. Disney-Pixar has debuted the first trailer for their upcoming animated film “Soul” starring Jamie Foxx and Tina Fey. The film centers on “a musician who has lost his passion for music and gets transported out of his body and must find his way back with the help of an infant soul learning about herself.” https://youtu.be/4TojlZYqPUo Fresh off the heels of the release of the celebrated MY BLOCK INC. Compilation album, JoiStaRR follows with a new single “Wait For It” available everywhere today on all digital platforms. JoiStaRR is an absolute multi-hyphenate creative force. One of My Block Inc.’s flagship artists, she is a singer, actress, and songwriter who effortlessly explores all sounds and styles in her music. Her distinct vocals equal part soul, rock and gospel allows her to transcend genre constraints. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_k8wn8L0x3Y&feature=youtu.be Ray J in response to the rumor regarding he is allegedly in talks with the Trump administration to pardon Suge Knight. blob:https://www.dropbox.com/95df5680-38ef-4b27-82b9-c1ba183b9358 Seven time Stellar Award winner, Byron Cage's newest album release is in stores and available for download now! The album's leading single, "Oh How Good It Is" (written by Chris Byrd) is a catchy song of praise and worship expressing the joy one feels in the presence of The Lord. "Isolation" is the title track on the project written by Cage, and was written in a period where he was required to spend an extended period of one on one time with God. Special guest appearances from Rudy Currence and Sherri Jones-Moffet on the effort. See Gospel Spotlight review page.....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/album_rvw.htm New Birth Missionary Baptist Church hopes to redefine Black Friday shopping with a Kwanzaa event that highlights minority-owned small businesses. From Nov. 29 to Dec. 1, the DeKalb megachurch is hosting the inaugural “Kwanzaa Plaza” event, featuring 100 vendors. The event is “geared at highlighting local entrepreneurs and fostering commerce within the African-American community.” Kwanzaa is a week-long annual celebration that honors African heritage in African-American culture. Though it is observed Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, New Birth decided to hold the expo event the weekend after Thanksgiving to take a new approach to the Black Friday shopping holiday. The plaza will feature fashion designers, art, cultural products, skincare/personal care products, food vendors and more. “The time for assembly is God’s time,” said Superintendent John Smith during the welcome service for The Church of God in Christ’s (COGIC) 112th annual Holy Convocation. “It is not time to go to a beauty salon. It is not time to go play golf. It is not time to watch a basketball game. This is God’s time.” In its tenth consecutive year in St. Louis, COGIC’s annual spiritual gathering is bringing thousands of people to downtown St. Louis for praise and worship at America’s Center. More than 30,000 faithful are assembling for biblical instruction, training, and spiritual inspiration. As the week-long devotional gathering proceeds, COGIC is hosting several urban project initiatives called COGIC Cares. Whitney Houston’s alleged former lover Robyn Crawford has spoken on camera for the first time about her romance with the late singer. Crawford, 58, shared some of their intimate details in a new interview with Dateline NBC. https://videos.dailymail.co.uk/video/backup/2019/11/07/6531598723926345131/640x360_MP4_6531598723926345131.mp4 DIVAS Simply Singing!, the longest consecutive running musical AIDS benefit in the United States, hosts its 29th annual fundraiser for The D.I.V.A. Foundation at the Taglyan Cultural Center in Hollywood, California on World AIDS Day, Sunday, December 1st. Created and produced by Tony Award Winning Sheryl Lee Ralph and benefitting Project Angel Food, this evening of song and entertainment spotlights the talents of D.I.V.A. (Divinely Inspired, Victoriously Aware) individuals from all walks of show business. DIVAS 2019 will honor Grammy, Golden Globe, Emmy winning, and 10-time Oscar nominee, legendary songwriter Diane Warren with the DIVAS Legacy Award. A tribute of her hits will be included in an evening filled with performances by the star of NBC’s This is Us, Chrissy Metz; , Brandon Victor Dixon, Deborah Cox and Rhonda Ross, Shanice, Kathy Sledge, Terrell Carter and many more! Girls are faced with challenges to their self-esteem on a daily basis that can hold them back from reaching their full potential, but surprisingly some of these issues stem from biased school policies. For Black girls, archaic school policies perpetuate negative narratives about natural hair that can impact girls' confidence – and violating these policies can result in their dismissal from school. To underscore the importance of helping girls overcome the barriers they face in achieving an education, ahead of International Day of the Girl, the Dove Self-Esteem Project and award-winning television producer Shonda Rhimes hosted an impactful town hall discussion and Dove Self-Esteem Workshop in LA with policymakers, school administrators, and students to raise awareness around the issue of hair discrimination in schools and its impact on students' self-esteem. ESSENCE Communications Inc. announced an extended five-year partnership agreement with the City of New Orleans and the State of Louisiana to host its signature ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ through 2024. A platform to advance global Black culture, economic ownership and inclusion, and community development, the ESSENCE Festival of Culture has contributed more than $4 billion to the local economy since its inception. To celebrate ESSENCE’s 50th Anniversary, the 2020 ESSENCE Festival of Culture presented by Coca-Cola will be extended to five days for the first time ever and will run from July 1-5. Novelist Ernest J. Gaines, whose poor childhood on a small Louisiana plantation germinated stories of black struggles that grew into universal tales of grace and beauty, has died. He was 86. The book “A Lesson Before Dying,” published in 1993, was an acclaimed classic. Gaines was awarded a “genius grant” that year by the MacArthur Foundation, receiving $335,000. Both “The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman” (1971) and “A Gathering of Old Men” (1984) became honored television movies. Among his numerous awards, Gaines received prestigious grants from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Rockefeller and Guggenheim Foundations. He held honorary doctorates from five colleges and universities. The Ernest Gaines Award for Literary Excellence will continue as his legacy. It will be presented Jan. 30 to a rising African American author. Over the past two years, as technology companies continued to struggle with diversifying their work forces, Los Angeles-based venture capitalist Kobie Fuller wrestled with how to solve the problem. He also dealt with being the go-to person for any startup company looking to hire from a diverse pool of candidates.“People would come to me and say ‘I want to hire more black talent’…. And I just didn’t have that magical database in my head. But I thought, wouldn’t it be cool if I did have that magic database of talent,” says Fuller. That’s how Valence was born. The company, which launches today with $2.5 million from Upfront Ventures, alongside Sinai Ventures, Human Ventures, High Alpha and angel investors like Paul Judge, Peggy Alford and Willie Alford, is the fruit of two years of labor from Fuller and his co-founders La Mer Walker and Emily Slade. Valence’s founders hope to help change that narrative in two ways. The first is simply through the creation of the network, which can serve as a single source for companies looking to hire black candidates into positions at their firms. In a way, it’s similar to how GirlBoss is creating a network for professional women that companies can access for recruiting. A historic 10-mile road in Kansas City, Mo., will no longer be known as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., after having nearly 100 signs erected with his name stand for only nine months. The proposal to remove the celebrated civil rights leader’s name received overwhelming support from voters, with 70 percent casting ballots Tuesday in favor of restoring the boulevard back to its original name, The Paseo, according to unofficial results reported in the Kansas City Star. Renaming the roadway sparked a tense battle among residents, local leaders and national politicians in a major city that will go back to having no streets named after the civil rights icon. A majority of city council members voted in January to rename the boulevard, which runs through Kansas City’s predominantly black East Side, to honor King. Lauren Daigle says “Love Like This” and “How Can It Be” are two of her favorite songs to perform live in concert. During video taken at an October 31 concert in Brussels, Belgium, Daigle discusses her favorite songs to perform live during a transition between songs. “I love this song so much,” Daigle says. “People ask me, ‘What’s your favorite song to sing every night?’ One of them is ‘How Can It Be,’ the one we just did. And then the next one is one of my favorites as well. So this song is ‘Love Like This.'” Sharon Stone is suing Chelsea Dudley, known as Chanel West Coast for using her moniker dozens of times in a song called “Sharon Stoned.” The actress says the aspiring rapper is trying to capitalize on her “extraordinary level of popularity and fame.” In addition to listing her credits from Basic Instinct to The Disaster Artist and award nominations and wins, Stone’s complaint also references honors she has received for her philanthropic work. Because of the reputation she has built, Stone says she “maintains strict control” over how her name and likeness are used. Stone says the “mantra-like repetition” of her name is an example of Dudley’s “penchant for glomming onto celebrity icons.” Sheryl Crow and Bruce Springsteen hit the stage together to help raise over $5.7 million at this year’s Stand Up for Heroes fundraiser, which benefits injured veterans and their families. The two musicians were joined at the Monday night event at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden by Ronny Chieng, Hasan Minhaj, John Oliver and Jon Stewart. Crow and Springsteen made a duet of “Redemption Day.” The Panthers have placed quarterback Cam Newton on injured reserve, meaning he can’t play for the rest of the regular season. Panthers general manager Marty Hurney said in a statement Tuesday that Newton is still experiencing pain in his foot and needs to continue to rehab from the injury. Newton could possibly return this season — if the Panthers reach the playoffs. According to NFL rules, Newton could hypothetically be designated to return from IR after eight weeks if the Panthers (5-3) were to qualify for the postseason. Lecrae said he supports Kirk Franklin’s boycott of the Dove Awards after the Gospel Music Association edited his speech following the ceremony. Franklin’s acceptance speech included a comment on racial injustice, which was removed during the award’s ceremony on Oct. 15. His call to prayer referenced the death of Atatiana Jefferson, a black woman who was shot and killed in her home Texas, on Oct. 12 by a white police officer. “It was a shock to the system. It demonstrated that there are certain voices and issues that I believe God cares about and for some reason are muted. That’s something we can’t stand for,” Lecrae said. “We have freedom of speech in this country and freedom to address things. What better platform than a Christian platform to bring up a call to prayer for issues in our society that need prayer. That’s what made me say I’m out as well.” Kanye West is taking being a ‘born again’ Christian very seriously. Kim Kardashian appeared with her sisters Kourtney and Khloe on The Real on Tuesday as she revealed that she and her 42-year-old husband have had ‘fights’ over his religious journey. Things have even gotten to the point that the couple have removed the televisions from their children’s rooms and even took away daughter North’s, six, make-up. The 39-year-old reality star was asked if she supports her the rapper’s new spiritual life journey as she replied: ‘I do think that, you know, he is my husband. ‘So, I obviously want to honor him and what he’s feeling. And he’s been going through this life change, and it’s mostly about the kids.’ Kanye West celebrated his new Gospel album reaching No. 1 on the Billboard charts and American Bible Society says they are committed to giving Bibles to any of his fans inquiring to read the Word. With nine studio albums to his credit, West’s Jesus is King, released October 25, is his ninth consecutive album to debut at the top slot of the Billboard 200. The chart ranks the most popular albums of the week in America. West’s ranking will reflect on the chart set to be released on Tuesday. The rapper and fashion guru is now tied with Eminem for the “most consecutive No. 1’s on the Billboard 200 charts. Viola Davis was honored with a lifetime achievement award at the Rome Film Festival Saturday evening at a special closeout event, and deservedly so. The 54-year-old actress chatted with festival head Antonio Monda during the Close Encounter talk, discussing a broad range of topics, including how art is divine. “Art lives in that world of imagination. It’s a playground there. It’s God’s playground,” she said. “It’s not up to anyone to say what deserves to be there and what doesn’t deserve to be there. It’s anything that you want to be in that place can live there. And that is why we have some of the greatest painters, some of the greatest actors, some of the greatest writers, and that’s why we live.” From her role as Annalise Keating on “How to Get Away With Murder” to her Oscar-winning performance in the film adaptation of August Wilson’s Fences opposite Denzel Washington, there is no denying that Davis has earned her placed on God’s playground. When actress LisaRaye McCoy first began opening up publicly about her faith, she said she struggled to understand the Bible. But the 52-year-old, who says she is a proud Christian, told Wendy Williams that Bishop Noel Jones “helped me tremendously with the Bible.” During a Wednesday, Oct. 30 guest appearance Wendy Williams asked the newly crowned Queen Mother of the Central Region in Ghana if she was dating Bishop Noel Jones. The slightly agitated fashion designer whose new collection of stretchy jeans for curvaceous women hits retailers in February 2020. McCoy is adamant that there is no chance of romance with the 69-year-old, she still shared kind words about the brother of iconic Jamaican-American model Grace Jones. “He’s very handsome. He is a great preacher,” she said, adding that Jones’ ministry was impactful in her life “before I found my church home.” A former leader of the NAACP, Kweisi Mfume, launched a bid to return to Congress Monday, entering the race for the Maryland congressional seat that became vacant with the death of U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings last month. Mfume, a close friend of Cummings, held that seat from 1987 to 1996 before stepping down to lead the civil rights organization. Maryland’s 7th Congressional District includes parts of Baltimore and Howard and Baltimore counties. Two high schoolers are testing their fledgling relationship with a day on the town, a classic start to a screen romance. But on Tuesday’s “This Is Us,” the carefree date in Philadelphia belongs to a boy who’s a teenage dad from a blue-collar household and a girl who’s been adopted from foster care into relative affluence. The scenes and the episode (9 p.m. EST, NBC) circumvent typical network TV brushstrokes, offering a nuanced take on the African American teenagers’ lives and on the cross-currents within and between black and multiracial families. Sterling K. Brown, the Emmy-winning actor who plays the girl’s dad, Randall Pearson, and the show’s makers are proud to share the results. “I just love there’s a sort of diaspora of African American representation,” said Brown. ”‘This Is Us’ is all about family and all about connection, and the world of the show continues to expand over the years. But it really does my heart good when, every once in a while, the show becomes very focused on the African American experience through Randall’s family, through these other families that we’ve added to the fold, and they’re not the same.” Kanye West has officially stepped away from his persona as the brash, profane performer who vacillated between flaunting his opulence and battling his demons. With the long-awaited “Jesus Is King,” West is now a gospel artist, pivoting from the devil’s domain to the glorious light. Proclaiming attachment to gospel music is a tricky proposition for an artist who is so famously self-absorbed. Black gospel music, which goes back to the 17th century with its roots in the black oral tradition and strong Christian lyrics and dominant choral vocals. By identifying himself with this tradition, he connects to a larger responsibility of soul, inspiration, healing and service. In “Jesus is King,” West attempts to combine a theology rooted in contemporary white evangelicalism with black gospel music, perhaps unaware that white evangelicalism has a tendency to celebrate black conversion while “editing out” black resistance. Jesus Is King, the first spiritual album from hip-hop superstar Kanye West, sparks his first appearance on Billboard‘s religious charts, as it opens at No. 1 on both the Top Christian Albums and Top Gospel Albums tallies dated Nov. 9. As previously reported, the set launches atop the all-genre Billboard 200 chart with 264,000 equivalent album units earned in its first week (ending Oct. 31), according to Nielsen Music. The set marks the biggest unit week on Top Christian Albums and Top Gospel Albums since both charts adopted a multi-metric methodology in February 2017. Follow God....https://youtu.be/PH3KD2bb_yc Ta-Nehisi Coates’ first novel, “The Water Dancer,” is among the nominees for an Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence. Coates’ narrative of an enslaved person’s journey to freedom is a fiction finalist, along with Valeria Luiselli’s “Lost Children Archive” and Myla Goldberg’s “Feast Your Eyes.” The nonfiction nominees are Maria Popova’s “Figuring,” David Treuer’s “The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee: Native America from 1890 to the Present” and Adam Higginbotham’s “Midnight in Chernobyl: The Untold Story of the World’s Greatest Nuclear Disaster.”The finalists were announced Monday by the American Library Association, which presents the awards. Winners in each category receive $5,000, made possible in part by a grant from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. The winners will be announced Jan. 26. Angela Moss Poole brings a fresh sound to contemporary Christian/Gospel music with "You Derserve." Gospel Spotlight pick to Shine....https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2bsCIk4TAw&feature=youtu.be South Carolina authorities confirmed this week they’re looking into the finances of Charleston’s Emanuel AME Church, also known as Mother Emanuel, site of a 2015 mass shooting. After a white supremacist killed nine black Bible study participants, Mother Emanuel received an outpouring of monetary gifts. But suspicions have lingered about how those donations were handled and distributed. Now the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has opened an investigation into the church’s books, including gifts received following the massacre. Less than two months after the shooting, Emanuel didn’t renew the contract of church secretary Althea Latham. She claims that’s because she raised concerns about how monetary gifts were being processed. Latham reported seeing church members opening envelopes addressed to families of victims and survivors. Those families, in turn, say the church passed along mail that was addressed to them but had been opened. Some envelopes were labeled “empty.” Arthur Hurd, whose wife was killed, sued Emanuel for an accounting of donations. He also claimed he’d seen church members open envelopes and remove money without recording it. Liz Alston, the congregation’s historian and a former trustee, welcomes the SLED investigation. Emanuel’s current pastor, the Rev. Eric Manning, said the state hadn’t yet informed him about its investigation. The Rev. Norvel Goff, Emanuel’s interim pastor for seven months after the massacre, hasn’t yet commented. Previously, congregational leaders have denied any wrongdoing, and Goff even called a local newspaper “satanic” when it reported on concerns. American Son, a new film on Netflix, unfolds at a Miami police station, during the middle of the night, where a worried mother frets about her missing son, who is black. She’s frustrated at the lack of information she gets from a police officer, who tells her he understands — he has kids, too. But Kendra Ellis-Connor, played by Scandal star Kerry Washington, dismisses his grasp at empathy. She’s certain that Officer Paul Larkin, a father to two young daughters, played by Jeremy Jordan, can’t relate. Washington said she signed on to reprise her onstage role in the new film, an adaptation of Christopher Demos-Brown’s Broadway play of the same name in which she starred, in part to help break down audience barriers of entry — not everyone can afford to travel to New York to see a play or shell out money for a Broadway ticket. Motown Gospel recording artist Gene Moore releases Nashville Sessions – a collection of live performances of songs from Gene’s sophomore album, Tunnel Vision, recently captured before an intimate audience in Nashville, TN. With it, Moore also releases the live performance video for the passionate gospel track, “Ask for Rain.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCWZ0E0R6qg MAJOR is back with new music featuring Brandy titled, "Even More." Released in honor of Cancer Survivorship & the village of love that fuels the fight, MAJOR. wants his fans to know, "You are not a burden, you are loved...Even More." Portion of proceeds to go to Cancer Research Orgs including Susan G. Komen (LA County). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-HY-6CuMzw&feature=youtu.be Get inspired with the refreshing sound on Broken Record, the new album from three-time GRAMMY® nominee, acclaimed award-winner Travis Greene, available now. Providing spiritual fuel on the eleven-song project, the chart-topping singer, songwriter and producer delivers high-energy live performances and engaging acoustic moments of reflection, love and hope on his latest album. Always creating the unexpected with his songwriting and sound, Broken Record features the singles “Good and Loved,” “Won’t Let Go,” “Respond” and more. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/album_rvw.htm New Angelo & Veronica Single, "He's Not a Baby Anymore" available at all Digital Outlets! https://open.spotify.com/album/1CzC9cWsWcpU31VqH4KVNo NEXT WEEK THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE WELCOME SINGER WILL DOWNING, ACTOR STERLING K. BROWN, RAPPER STALLEY, RADIO PERSONALITY ANGELA YEE, COMEDIAN J. ANTHONY BROWN AND MANY MORE! TAI BEAUCHAMP AND ELTON ANDERSON HEAD TO GHANA TO CELEBRATE THE YEAR OF RETURN AND CONNECT WITH THEIR AFRICAN ROOTS ON THE NEXT EPISODE OF LENS OF CULTURE. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzjTipHJ8WM&feature=youtu.be SYLEENA JOHNSON'S 10TH ALBUM WOMAN AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER NOW https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frROGOqk85A&feature=youtu.be With the arrival of Kanye's new album, Jesus Is King, Lecrae's socials were lit with fans, supporters, and media outlets requesting his reaction to Kanye's latest release. He decided to set aside time from recording his 9th album offer his reactions to the album and also respond to questions about his support of Kirk Franklin's boycott of The GMA Dove Awards. First Lecrae talked exclusively with Billboard offering his reaction to the album: "It [Kanye] sounds like a person who is excited about his new relationship with Jesus. I’m in support of that." He also expressed hope that Kanye being explicit about faith in his music will allow other religious rappers to appreciate the spotlight on Jesus in places where they may not have previously had an audience. Earlier this week, Kirk Franklin called for a boycott of the GMA (Gospel Music Association’s) Dove Awards after part of his acceptance speech — where he requested prayers for Atatiana Jefferson and her grieving family — was cut out. Artists and fans have come out in droves to support him and condemn the network’s censorship.This past Sunday, the 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards took place and Franklin took home the “Artist of the Year” and gave a compelling speech on stage. But on Monday, Franklin took to social media to call out the GMA, the Dove Awards and the Trinity Broadcasting Network who aired it for cutting his acceptance speech short during the official broadcast. Yesterday, the GMA president Jackie Patillo released a statement issuing an apology to both Franklin and his supporters saying that they had to edit the show down to fit their two-hour broadcast window. She says they “accept the responsibility” of their error. “Although completely unintentional, we understand it caused great harm and deeply wounded many in the African American and Gospel community. As well, it left a general perception that we are not concerned with key social issues that affect people of color. It is not our intent to disregard or silence any of our artists, and we are deeply saddened by this perception and are committed to change this.” Members of the GMA board and executives are in talks with Franklin and reps on a solution that they will be “working to implement moving forward.” Grammy Award-winning artist TobyMac has asked that in lieu of flowers for the funeral of his 21-year-old son, that people give to a charity he started in Truett’s name. “Truett Foster Mckeehan had an untamable grand personality and dreams to match. Since the age of 12, he knew he wanted to make music. Dreams are so important to kids growing up. Too many kids do not have the financial ability to pursue their dreams. We want to use this fund to help kids do just that. Get an education, to pursue music, to get the chance to live their dream. Truett would have loved that.” According to the foundation’s website, donations made in Truett’s name will help send “vulnerable youth to college, that they may realize their God-given potential to change the lives of others.” Letitia Wright, is a massive movie star and was the highest box office earning actor of 2018! She’s also incredibly vocal about her Christian faith. However, in a recent Tweet, Wright said that journalists have been editing her quotes so they don’t include discussions about God. “It’s super cute when journalists/interviewers for magazines leave out the massive part where I give God the glory for the success/ achievements in my life,” she wrote. “Haha, I still love you and God will still be praised.” Last year, in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, she said that God helps guide her in making career decisions, explaining, “I pride myself on not just changing the lane and taking everything. If something feels off in my spirit [in regards to a part], I know that’s God’s way of saying, "You shouldn’t do that." Stephen Strasburg paraded the MVP trophy for delirious fans packed behind the dugout. Max Scherzer tearfully hugged his teammates. Gerardo Parra did the Baby Shark chop, Sean Doolittle flapped snow angels next to the mound. Almost out of contention in May, champs in October. Howie Kendrick, Anthony Rendon and the Washington Nationals completed their amazing comeback journey — fittingly with one last late rally on the road. In Game 7 of the World Series, no less. Kendrick and Rendon homered in the seventh inning as the Nationals overcame a two-run deficit, rocking the Houston Astros 6-2 Wednesday night to win the first title in franchise history. The Golden State Warriors’ rough start to the season got the worst possible news Wednesday night. Star guard Steph Curry suffered a broken left hand against the Phoenix Suns, the team announced. With about 8½ minutes left in the third quarter, Curry drove and collided with Suns center Aron Baynes. Curry fell to the floor, and Baynes landed on his left arm. Curry drew a foul on the play but did not shoot the free throws. He headed to the locker room, where he had X-rays that confirmed the break. The team did not have any additional details on the injury but said Curry will undergo an MRI and CT scan Thursday to determine if surgery is necessary. Only then will the team set a time table for Curry’s recovery. TV One's UNCENSORED highlights actress Niecy Nash on Sunday, November 3 at 9 p.m. ET/8C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQSSikMkWf8&feature=youtu.be RCA Inspiration is celebrating two nominations for the 2019 Soul Train Awards, with gospel icons Kirk Franklin and Donald Lawrence receiving nominations for Best Gospel/Inspirational Award. The acclaimed GRAMMY®-winning hit makers have each celebrated milestones of over 25 years as musical trailblazers. The BET Presents: 2019 Soul Train Awards will be live from Las Vegas Sunday, November 17, 2019, airing on BET and BET HER at 8 pm ET. Rapper Lecrae, Marvin Sapp, contemporary Christian artist Natalie Grant and an avalanche of gospel and secular artists are voicing their support for Kirk Franklin’s boycott of TBN, the Gospel Music Association, and the Dove Awards until they address the musicians’ diversity concerns. The support comes after Franklin charged in a Monday video statement on Instagram that TBN removed parts of his acceptance speeches from his 2016 and 2019 appearances at Dove Awards shows which advocated for racial justice and reconciliation. He charged that when he approached representatives from all the organizations about the situation, he was not provided a satisfactory response. The GMA said in a statement that it’s now working toward addressing Franklin’s concerns. For Harriet star Cynthia Erivo, playing the iconic historical abolitionist and Christian believer carried special spiritual significance. The actress said that, as a woman of faith herself, she was inspired by Tubman’s boldness in prayer and actions. “What was wonderful about playing Harriet and diving into that part of her is that it gave me access to my own faith,” she said. “It made me braver in my prayers. It made me want to pray, and not be afraid to do it out loud if I needed to. That’s the thing that was really wonderful.” Because of her courage and divine calling, Tubman was able to change the course of history. Erivo hopes that Harriet will inspire audiences to realize they also hold the power to make a difference. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbsPNu8vczg Comedian Kevin Hart has released a video showing his grueling recovery after a horrific car crash that left him with a severe back injury. The video released on Tuesday shows Hart’s physical therapy following the crash in Calabasas, California on September 1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V930ttO0fo4 Michelle and Barack Obama both were speakers at the Illinois Institute of Technology where their three-day summit featured talks by activists, including Ava DuVernay and singer Mavis Staples. The summit is being held in the city as the couple outline their vision for the Obama Presidential Center. The center is planned along the lakefront of Chicago’s South Side. It’s near where Obama started his political career and lived with his family. The $500 million center is expected to house a public library branch, house multimedia collections and have community programs, among other things. John Witherspoon, an actor and comedian died Tuesday at his home in Sherman Oaks, California. He was 77. Witherspoon starred in "Friday," "Boomerang" and "Vampire in Brooklyn. He made numerous appearances on television shows such as "The Tracy Morgan Show," "The Boondocks" and "Black Jesus." Set against the vibrant landscape of South Florida, Waves traces the epic emotional journey of a suburban African-American family—led by a well-intentioned but domineering father—as they navigate love, forgiveness and coming together in the aftermath of a loss. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V5z3cr8AB5g The NCAA, pressured by individual states have taken a major step toward allowing athletes to make money off their fame. Deciding to reverse the prohibition on earning money was the easy part; determining how much athletes can make, under what circumstances and in a way that doesn’t permit abuses are bigger challenges that won’t be as simple to resolve. The board of governors for the nation’s largest governing body met Tuesday and set a January 2021 deadline to have rules and regulations finalized across three divisions covering more than 1,100 schools and 460,000 athletes. Singer and actress Deborah Joy Winans performs the classic choir rendition of “When I Rose,” on this week’s new episode of “Greenleaf.” The enduring choir song is a gospel favorite, and Winans brings it to life in tonight’s episode. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SfTvCBJcVpE Gold-selling gospel act, ANTHONY BROWN & group therAPy, debut at No. 1* on this week’s Top Gospel Albums chart with their fourth album, 2econd Wind. In addition, the album also debuted at No. 1* on the Gospel Album Sales chart and generated over 1 million on demand streams in its first week. The effort also boasts an appearance from Mary Mary’s Erica Campbell and Hip-Hop artist <1K Phew on the cut, “He Always Wins”, as well as, Kelontae Gavin on the title track 2econd Wind. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight! Hear Anthony Brown In His Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/anthonybrown_intvw.htm Pastor Tony Evans is revealing some tragic news about his wife Lois Evans as she battles a “fiery trial” with cancer. Evans, the senior pastor at the Oak Cliff Fellowship Church in Dallas, Texas, posted an image of a note to Instagram on Friday without a photo of him or his wife. “Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. I wanted to update our ministry friends and partners regarding my wife’s medical condition,” Evans wrote. “Lois spent all of last week in the hospital due to severe pain related to her biliary cancer. The doctors were able to manage the pain, and they released her from the hospital for home care.” Yet, even though chemotherapy and radiation are no longer options, we still have total confidence in God’s ability to supernaturally intervene and do what man is unable to do,” Evans explained. “Our prayers are full of faith, hope, and expectancy. We would appreciate you praying with that same spirit. While we wait on our miracle, Lois is continuing with natural therapies, supplemental treatments and is surrounded 24/7 with the love of her nuclear and extended family as well as the support of our church and national ministry.” Rapper Kanye West continues to make waves with his recent profession of faith in Jesus, sharing with comedian James Corden how he encountered God. In Monday night’s segment of Carpool Karaoke, aptly renamed Airpool Karaoke for this interview on CBS’ “The Late Late Show,” Corden boarded a flight to Los Angeles, California, with West and the Sunday Service singers. During the flight, West spoke of the joys and challenges of marriage, and explained how being married has changed his sense of time. https://youtu.be/vgLOv36an3s In a wide-ranging interview with Zane Lowe, Kanye West opened up about his faith journey, and the radical life-changing transformation he has experienced over the last year. For the interview with Apple Music’s Beats 1, Lowe visited Kanye at his family’s home in Wyoming. https://youtu.be/QuOCvKvrwI8 Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James said he and his family were forced to evacuate their home in Los Angeles due to the wildfires that have engulfed Southern California. James tweeted early Monday morning that his family was driving around attempting to find a hotel after being evacuated. It was unclear how long James and his family were looking for shelter. “Man these LA (fires) aren’t no joke,” James wrote. “Had to emergency evacuate my house and I’ve been driving around with my family trying to get rooms. No luck so far!” Less than 10 minutes later James tweeted,” finally found a place to accommodate us! Crazy night man!” For Tiger Woods, it all comes down to consistency. Surgeries on his knee and back and a crisis in his personal life have cost him opportunities to play his best golf over the past decade. But when he’s been healthy and free from off-course distractions, he’s always found ways to win. And now, he’s won as much as anybody on the PGA Tour. Woods completed a wire-to-wire victory at the Zozo Championship on Monday, equaling Sam Snead’s PGA Tour record of 82 victories. After a celebratory response from his latest album Settle Here, GRAMMY®- nominated hitmaker William Murphy, is releasing his latest “Same Grace” to Gospel Radio. “Same Grace” marks the second single released from the #1 album. Composed by Murphy and produced by Kenneth Leonard and Tasha Cobbs Leonard, “Same Grace” is a reminder that the same grace that God extended to those in the bible, and in our past is still available to us in present times. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight! Hear William Murphy In His Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/William_Murphy_III.htm BET Networks today announces the hosts and nominees for the 2019 Soul Train Awards across 12 different categories. The annual celebration recognizes the best in Soul, R&B and Hip-Hop from both established industry legends and the next generation of promising artists. Going down November 17, 2019 at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, BET Presents:2019 Soul Train Awards air LIVE on BET and BET HER 8PM EST with a one-hour pre-show beginning at 7PM EST, and a post show directly after . Tisha Campbell will once again join Tichina Arnold as host and co-producers of this year’s awards. The fifth annual Lady of Soul Award will be presented to five-time Grammy Award winning artist and Billboard Magazine’s Gospel Artist of the last decade Yolanda Adams. Grammy-winning gospel artist Kirk Franklin says he’s boycotting the Gospel Music Association’s Dove Awards after they edited out part of his acceptance speech earlier this month in which he called for prayers after a police shooting in his hometown of Fort Worth, Texas. Franklin posted a Facebook video on Monday that said he would no longer attend events associated with the Dove Awards, GMA or Trinity Broadcasting Network “until tangible plans are put into place to protect and champion diversity.” The 50th annual awards show was held in Nashville, Tennessee, on Oct. 15 and aired on Oct. 20 on TBN. https://www.facebook.com/talbertswan/videos/962168314182151/ Dan Piepenbring felt panic, joy and shock when Prince picked him to collaborate on his first memoir, followed by more shock and profound sadness at news of the superstar’s death while the book was in its early stages. Though the project was thrown into chaos when Prince died on April 21, 2016, of an accidental drug overdose, his estate ultimately decided to press on, allowing Piepenbring and his publishing team free access to the pieces of his life left behind at his beloved Paisley Park, including the contents of his vault. Now, the highly anticipated collaboration, “The Beautiful Ones,” is ready for Prince fans to read as many continue to mourn. The book out Tuesday includes no bombshells, though Prince very much wanted to provide some, and a mere 28 memoir pages written in his elegant script and quirky style, replacing the word “I? with a drawing of a human orb, for instance. All told, Piepenbring spent 12 to 15 hours face-to-face with Prince in Minneapolis, New York and on tour in Melbourne. THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW WELCOMES LEGENDARY GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING SINGER DIONNE WARWICK, T.K. KIRKLAND, ANANDA LEWIS AND AMANDA SEALES AT 11 P.M ET/10C! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DilP6IbZLac&feature=youtu.be Former U.S. Rep. John Conyers, one of the longest-serving members of Congress whose resolutely liberal stance on civil rights made him a political institution in Washington and back home in Detroit despite several scandals, has died. He was 90. Conyers, among the high-profile politicians toppled by sex harassment allegations in 2017, died at his home on Sunday. Known as the dean of the Congressional Black Caucus, which he helped found, Conyers became one of only six black House members when he won his first election by just 108 votes in 1964. The race was the beginning of more than 50 years of election dominance: He released his Christian album Jesus Is King on Friday. And Kanye West is taking his faith so seriously that he will no longer perform the original profane versions of his old songs live, TMZ insiders say. In a Beats 1 interview this week, the 42-year-old rapper said he would record bowdlerized ‘George Lucas versions’ of his old tracks. Apparently, these cleaned-up versions of the old songs will still be fair game for Kanye to perform live on his upcoming tour. While strolling around New York with his wife Kim Kardashian on Friday, Kanye also revealed he will be going on tour in support of the new album. After dropping his ninth studio album, Jesus Is King, Yeezy already has his sights set on his next studio effort. West has revealed that his Sunday Service album Jesus Is Born will be dropping on Christmas. Since the start of the year, West has provided a multitude of Sunday Service events, featuring his esteemed choir. The Chicago lyricist even brought his Gospel-laden attraction to Coachella for an Easter special last April. It’s unclear if West’s Sunday Service project will be a live album or a studio version of the tracks he’s recently performed. Renowned for his mega hits "Open Your Mouth and Say Something", "He Rose", "Don't Wait Till Midnight" (featuring Coko from SWV), "Cry Holy" & the urban AC smash "Goodtime" JDI Records artist Brent Jones is prepping for a 1st Quarter 2020 release! Brent Jones is preparing for a Live recording Saturday November 16, 2019 at Greater Bethel Cathedral Los Angeles, CA. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com RCA Inspiration and Essential Worship, both divisions of Provident Label Group and Sony Music Entertainment, have announced a strategic music partnership with the global ministry, All Nations Worship Assembly, which is headquartered in Chicago, IL, and has campuses across the U.S. in Atlanta, GA, Huntsville, AL, Memphis, TN, Baltimore, MD, San Bernardino, CA, and Louisville, KY, as well as in Toronto, Ontario in Canada. Under this collaboration RCA Inspiration and Essential Worship, Essential Music Publishing’s church and worship leader resourcing platform, will release new music from All Nations’ various campuses and worship leaders. TobyMac’s 21-year-old son, Truett Foster Mckeehan, died suddenly at his home Wednesday and the Grammy Award-winning artist shared a tribute to his eldest child and a declaration of faith despite the tragedy. “Truett Foster Mckeehan had joy that took the room when he entered. He was a magnetic son and brother and friend. If you met him, you knew him, you remembered him. His smile, his laugh, the encouragement he offered with words or even without. He had an untamable grand personality and dreams to match. And he hated being put in a box,” the grieving father wrote on Instagram. TobyMac said his son was “a true artist.” During the past few years, McKeehan released songs and videos online under various stage names, such as Shiloh, truDog and TRU. McKeehan was not a Christian artist but he did collaborate with his father on several tracks throughout the years. Kanye West has unveiled his “Jesus Is King” IMAX film, featuring a gospel choir performing at artist James Turrell’s dramatic Roden Crater in the Arizona desert. It’ll be in theaters nationwide for one week to coincide with Friday’s release of an album with the same name. West premiered the 35-minute film off to fans at an event Wednesday at The Forum in Inglewood, California, where he also led a listening session for his long-delayed ninth studio album. The film is divided into sections by six Bible verse citations. It showcases the light-filled interior of Turrell’s creation as West and his choir perform gospel standards and modified versions of his songs. COMING TO THE SISTER CIRCLE COUCH NEXT WEEK IS AWARD-WINNING SINGER TANK, ACTRESS/DIRECTOR TERRI J. VAUGHN, ASTROPHYSICIST NEIL DEGRASS TYSON, FORMER NBA PLAYER STEPHEN JACKSON AND MANY MORE! On the next episode of CLEO TV's new travel series, LENS OF CULTURE, co-hosts Tai Beauchamp and Elton Anderson celebrate 20 years of purpose on the Tom Joyner's Fantastic Voyage cruise. The pair will sail across the sea to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DvqheSstWBI&feature=youtu.be Thursday night the pews quickly filled at Mother Emanuel A.M.E church with people looking forward to celebrating the groundbreaking of the International African American Museum. Organizers with the museum say the worship service was necessary to bless the grounds of the future site of the museum and to celebrate the decades-long process it took to get to the point of groundbreaking. The groundbreaking for the International African-American Museum took place at 10 AM October 25, at the future site of the museum, across from the former Gadsden’s Wharf at 10 Wharfside Street, Charleston, SC. Musical visionary, multiple award winner, and leading music producer Warryn "Baby Dubb" Campbell delivers his first My Block Inc. compilation album, Friday, October 25 to all digital outlets. Bringing together his full complement of talent, "WARRYN CAMPBELL PRESENTS MY BLOCK INC." is the anticipated compilation to include all-new music from his entire roster of artists including the long-awaited new song from Mary Mary. Campbell adeptly showcases My Block Inc.'s range and diversity with this collection. Featured artists include Erica Campbell with her lead single “Praying and Believing,” JoiStaRR “Solution” and Mary Mary on their first new song since 2013, "Feels So Good To Be Loved.” Donnie McClurkin recently returned to London for back-to back anniversary concerts at New Wine Church located at Gateway House. The people showed up in full force with great anticipation, every seat in the house was filled. The lively energetic sound from the audience singing almost drowned out McClurkin when he performed the all-time favorite Caribbean Medley. The two hour set included “Great Is Thy Mercy”, “We Fall Down”, “Stand” and several other popular tunes by the artist. The two-night celebration was hosted by Pastor Kola Taiwo, Sr. Pastor of New Wine Church and Premier Gospel Radio’s Muyiwa Olarewaju, including a Face Book Live chat about McClurkin’s new album, "A Different Song" set for release November 15th. "Open Door Season" the new sigle from Deitrick Haddon is on the move. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight! Hear Deitrick Haddon In His Own Words.....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/deitrick_haddon.htm You may not know Steven Hickerson by name, but you’ve certainly heard his voice. Hickerson was handpicked by Maranda Curtis to provide backup vocals on her local and international dates, and he is a lead vocalist for Ricky Dillard’s New Generation Chorale. That’s Hickerson leading “He Shall Reign (King of Glory LIVE)” from Dillard’s last album, 10, and you will hear him on Dillard’s upcoming release on Motown Gospel. Hickerson also has a previously released single, “Reset,” which earned him a headlining spot on the Rhythm of Gospel Awards. “Belongs to You” is Hickerson’s new work of art. It is the lead single off of his upcoming debut EP. https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=3&v=IXLnHvF3eSE Kenya Moore Opens Up About Motherhood, Returning to Reality TV & More. (Baby) Brooklyn’s presence, she shares, has changed her in incredible ways. “I am definitely more compassionate. I’m 100 percent more patient. I feel more kind, but I’m also less tolerant of fake news and people who are disingenuous or not kind,” she explains. “I strive to be the best mother I can be. I’m very attentive and believe it’s important to make her feel like she is the most important person in my life,” Moore adds. One of her favorite things to do with Brooklyn is to laugh, she reveals. “She’s the happiest baby, and I love to laugh with her. Her laughter is contagious.” UMC (Urban Movie Channel) – the first streaming service for Black TV and film from AMC Networks – announced today that it has commissioned a new docu-series that will provide viewers with a behind-the-scenes look at the power of faith and its driving force on successful women in entertainment, sports, music, business, politics, and ministry. Created by writer/director Paula Bryant-Ellis, "Behind Her Faith" will feature several accomplished women who tread different walks of life, but all have one thing in common: the conscious decision to put their faith first without fear or regret. Each episode will center on one subject as they open up to viewers about their greatest achievements and biggest successes as well as their toughest disappointments and most heartbreaking moments; sharing their life lessons and triumphs along the way. Kicking off with a four-episode order, the first installment of "Behind Her Faith" will feature Essence Atkins, Aisha Hinds, Niecy Nash and Angelica Nwandu. The funeral is set Thursday for Atatiana Jefferson, the woman shot and killed in her home by a Fort Worth police officer. The public ceremony begins at 11 a.m. at Concord Church in Dallas. Her family is also inviting Fort Worth mayor Betsy Price and interim police chief Ed Kraus to attend the funeral service this morning. A temporary restraining orderdelayed the first service less than 24 hours before it was set to take place at the Potters House of Dallas. It is with a heavy heart that the Stampley family would like to announce the passing of their 15 year old daughter, Mary Stampley, from complications with a seizure. Please keep the family in your prayers as you respect their privacy dealing with this traumatic event. Mourners, constituents and other well-wishers paid respects to U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings on Wednesday as his body lay in repose at a historically black college in Baltimore ahead of the first in a series of services. A tan hearse with a U.S. House of Representatives seal carrying Cummings’ body arrived Wednesday morning at Morgan State University’s Murphy Fine Arts Center. A group of mourners led by Cummings’ widow, Maya Rockeymoore, followed pallbearers who wheeled the black casket with silver trimmings into the building. The auditorium opened to the public Wednesday morning and a large group of people waiting in line began to file through. TV One brings the holiday spirit with the premiere of the original film, DEAR SANTA, I NEED A DATE, which will air on Sunday, December 8 at 7 P.M. ET/6C. The film's stars Ray J , Reagan Gomez-Preston, Anne-Marie Johnson, Jay DeVon Johnson, MAJOR, Reginae Carter and B. Simone. The movie is directed by Terri J. Vaughn. Los Angeles will be the top vacation destination for Christian Hip Hop, Latin Christian Hip Hop and Gospel Hip Hop fans next summer as 75 of the genres’ favorite artists will convene for the first ever 20/20 Summer Fest scheduled for Fri., July 17 and Sat., July 18 at the Banc of California Stadium, Los Angeles, CA. Multi-Platinum Christian Hip Hop artist Aulsondro “Novelist” Hamilton aka Emcee N.I.C.E. and Chantal “Chanie G” Grayson, co-owners of the Stellar Award-Winning God’s House of Hip Hop (GH3 Radio) station have finalized the deal with the Banc of California Stadium. Festival lineup announcements will begin in January 2020. Marcus Jordan drops new single "Give God the Glory." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9UMqiJIdX0&feature=youtu.be TV One's UNCENSORED features athlete Lamar Odom Sunday, October 27 at 9 p.m. ET/8C. The edgy docu-series explores the private lives of some of today's most notable personalities. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3dnZc2ET0U&feature=youtu.be Karew Entertainment in partnership with Motown Gospel, released to radio “Victory”, the newest single from the legendary Clark Sisters. It will be available for streaming on all major digital platforms Friday, November 15, 2019 ( the birthdays of Karen Clark Sheard and Twinkie Clark). “Victory” gives listeners a word of encouragement reminding people to declare victory over your life! It finishes with the repetitive final declaration that we shall prosper and be in good health,” with ad libs that are signature to The Clark Sister sound. The Clark Sisters are the highest-selling female Gospel group in history with millions of record sales to their credit. Their biopic, executive produced by Mary J. Blige, Missy Elliott, and Queen Latifah will premiere nationally on Lifetime Networks in early 2020. Damien Sneed’s 40 city North American tour “We Shall Overcome: A Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.” 2020 tour kicks off Tuesday, January 14, 2020 at Joe’s Pub in New York, NY and will make stops at concert halls and universities in the U.S. and Canada. The tour will conclude Friday, March 13, 2020 at Kent-Meridian Performing Arts Center Kent, WA. The Congressional Black Caucus is condemning President Donald Trump’s comparison of impeachment to lynching. Democratic Rep. Karen Bass of California, the group’s chairwoman, called lynching “a horrific stain on our country’s history” and said Trump’s tweet Tuesday inaccurately compared a constitutional process of investigation to “the systematic brutal torture and murder of thousands of African Americans in this country. It’s unacceptable.” Bass said Trump’s comment was part of a pattern for him at moments of political peril: “He throws out the red meat of racial rhetoric and attacks communities of color, but the American people aren’t taking the bait.” She urged Trump to visit the National Memorial for Peace and Justice in Montgomery, Ala., also known as the “Lynching Museum,” to learn more about the history of lynching. Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) 32nd Anniversary Awards Gala, and TMCF Board Chairman, Charles Merinoff announced that more than $5.8M was raised over the weekend as part of the 32nd Anniversary Awards Gala, presented by Ally Financial Inc. This tremendous fundraising success allows TMCF to invest in even more scholarships and programs to help identify talented students for excellent internships and full-time jobs from our nation’s publicly-supported Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs). Hosted last Saturday at the Washington Marriott Wardman Park Hotel, the gala was the culminating affair of the award-winning 19th Annual TMCF Leadership Institute. Ms. Minaj is now officially Mrs. Petty. Minaj — who has dated Kenneth Petty for about a year — seems to confirm her marriage with a video on Instagram on Monday that shows off Mr. and Mrs. coffee mugs and bride and groom hats. The rapper also changed her Twitter name to Mrs. Petty. Her caption read: “Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty 10-21-19.” Minaj’s real name is Onika Maraj. No other additional information was offered. The couple first dated as teenagers and reunited last year. She announced plans over the summer to wed. R. Kelly’s former divorce lawyer has asked an Illinois judge to order the R&B singer to pay her more than $12,000 in fees. Lisa Damico worked for Kelly when he faced jail time in March for failing to pay more than $160,000 in child support and education expenses for his daughter. The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Damico filed her request with Cook County Judge Lori Rosen this month. The filing says Kelly paid Damico a $2,500 retainer in March and a $10,000 payment. Court records show she billed Kelly for more than $25,000. Kelly faces sexual misconduct charges in Illinois, Minnesota and New York and is jailed in Chicago. Damico declined to comment on the filing. A hearing is set on Nov. 4. The final trailer for the “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” debuted Monday night, offering montages of epic cosmic combat and a fleeting glimpse of the late Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia embracing Daisy Ridley’s Rey. The spot generally struck an elegiac note of finality. “The Rise of Skywalker,” which opens Dec. 20, is the last chapter in the now nine-part Skywalker saga. Even C-3PO appears wistful, saying he’s taking “one last look at my friends” presumably before the film’s climactic showdown. The trailer debuted on what would have been Fisher’s 63rd birthday. Fisher, who died in 2016 at the age of 60, appears in the film in a performance pieced together through unused footage from “The Force Awakens.” In the trailer, a tear streams down Rey’s face as they hug. New Orleans Pelicans rookie Zion Williamson, the No. 1 overall pick in this past June’s NBA draft, will miss six to eight weeks after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on a torn right lateral meniscus, the team announced Monday afternoon. New Orleans opens its much anticipated 2019-20 schedule Tuesday against the defending champion Toronto Raptors in Canada. The earliest side of his recovery timeline would keep him out until the first week of December, and an eight-week window would push his return closer to Christmas, when the Pelicans are scheduled to visit the Denver Nuggets. Either way, Williamson will miss somewhere between a quarter and a third of a season in which he was a favorite for Rookie of the Year. Celebrating fifty years of acclaimed pastoral ministry, Dr. Tony Evans releases The CSB Tony Evans Study Bible on November 1, 2019. As one of the country’s most respected leaders in evangelical circles, Pastor Evans is known for his unique ability to communicate complex theological truths through simple, yet profound, illustrations. Tony Evans’ name is synonymous with strong Biblical teaching and a high view of Scripture. Dr. Evans is Senior Pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, TX and founder of The Urban Alternative, a media ministry which promotes a kingdom agenda designed to enable people to live all of life underneath the comprehensive rule of God. The reach of Tony’s preaching now spans the world with broadcasts airing on over 1,400 radio outlets and in over 130 countries, reaching millions each week. In a trailer for Kanye West’s Jesus Is King that dropped Saturday, the rapper states, “We’re here to spread the gospel. I’m not here for your entertainment.”Following a passage from the Bible (Mark 1:15), West states in a voice over, “I’m an evangelist, so my music, my films, every conversation, every room I go in, we’re here to save souls, save you from eternal damnation.” Imax is collaborating with Kanye West on the concert film, which will be released exclusively in Imax theaters around the world on Oct. 25. https://youtu.be/eCI5D5hHWt0 RCA Inspiration has appointed Justin Tomlinson as Associate Director of Digital Marketing. Tomlinson will lead strategic implementation of digital marketing campaigns for all RCAI artists, and ensure marketing campaigns support all promotion and consumption efforts. Tomlinson’s trailblazing career began with his first internship at Motown Records/Cash Money, as a Digital Marketing Intern. Through the internship, he managed new artists’ social platforms as new acts began their careers with the label. Following his internship, Tomlinson became Talent Production Assistant at BET Networks, working with Will Smith, Justin Bieber, P. Diddy, French Montana, Bow Wow, Fantasia, Faith Evans, Drake and worked on hit shows such as BET 106 & Park, the BET Awards, BET Hip Hop Awards, Soul Train Awards & many special projects. Following his tenure at BET, Tomlinson began his career at RCA Inspiration/Sony Music as Marketing & Digital Marketing Assistant. Tomlinson managed all social media platforms for the RCAI label. Tomlinson’s debut campaigns with the label, were with Travis Greene (The Hill) & GRAMMY®-winning artist and producer Kirk Franklin (Losing My Religion). Tomlinson has worked with Koryn Hawthorne, Snoop Dogg, Le’Andria, Jason Nelson, The Walls Group, Marvin Sapp and Dee-1. THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW WELCOMES BOBBY BROWN, ACTORS KYLA PRATT, ERICA ASH AND JOHN WITHERSPOON AT 11 P.M ET/10C! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2v4-jpDR5W4 THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE SIT WITH GOSPEL ARTISTS PASTOR MARVIN WINANS AND MICAH STAMPLEY,BREAST CANCER AWARENESS ADVOCATES, PLUS MORE SPECIAL GUESTS! From a process of 2 years in the making, comes G12 Worship’s newest single “We Invite You.” The contemporary worship music band has been working tirelessly to bring songs that stem from the heart of God and what He is doing in the lives of its members. The Dove Award-winning band, formerly known as Soulfire Revolution, delivers another hit with simple yet deeply heartfelt lyrics. Lorena Castellanos (lead vocalist) teamed up with Luke Pew and Lupe Page to write a poignant song about our hunger for the presence of God. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xxQLt41Fpqo&feature=youtu.be On a scraggly rock outpost in eastern Virginia 400 years ago, a ship came to Fort Monroe with colonial America’s first Africans, forced against their will to land in the New World. That moment inaugurated the racist slavery that set the course of the black experience in this country. But travel to modern-day Fort Monroe and you’d hardly know it — there’s more Confederate and military history than black history. There was an arch spelled “Jefferson Davis Memorial Park” in large letters, until their recent removal. A museum preserves the Confederate president’s prison cell following the Civil War. You can see where future Confederate General Robert E. Lee was stationed as a U.S. lieutenant. Ally Financial announced a $1 million donation to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture on Wednesday, Oct. 16, with a check presentation by Ally Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey J. Brown to interim director of the museum, Spencer Crew. The museum, located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., is the nation’s largest museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history and culture, and its impact on the world today. This donation supports Ally’s commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion through education, understanding and action. When Jose Altuve of the Houston Astros belted a walk-off homer Saturday to send his team to the World Series, he high-fived coaches, hugged teammates, and pointed to the crowd. But before all that, he thanked God. “Running around the bases, the only thing I was thinking was just thanking God and just thinking that we’re going to the World Series once again,” he told FS1 during a postgame interview. Three-time GRAMMY® nominee, Billboard Music Award, Dove and 11-time Stellar Award winner Travis Greene has launched a new track “Respond” (feat. Trinity Anderson, D’Nar Young, and Taylor Poole), available now with pre-order of his album Broken Record. “Respond” brings worship to new heights in the acoustic-driven live performance, the latest single off his upcoming eleven-track album Broken Record, which is available everywhere on Friday, November 1st. Greene also premieres the new music video for “Respond” on his YouTube channel and announces the first winner of his new Baggage Claim Giveaway with the video premiere. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWOShp2EPOE Amanda Lynn makes her debut to the national platform, with her highly anticipated single, “Better”; with her first album, “Soul Food”, releasing in January 2020. October 18, 2019 with the official release October 25, 2019 on all major outlets. https://www.dropbox.com/s/tohqz01o0u3280k/Better.mp3?dl=0 Jerard & Jovaun are back with a new single and it’s a must-hear rendition of “The Potter’s House”! It's the cover of the Tramaine Hawkins classic. https://youtu.be/lus2TR_Qy6E The 4th Annual 2019 Black Music Honors will air nationally on Bounce TV on Sunday, October 20th at 12 p.m.The show was hosted by Rickey Smiley and LeToya Luckett-Walker. Honoree Xscape, received the Urban Music Icon Award presented by AT&T, Freddie Jackson received the Legend Award, presented by State Farm. Yolanda Adams received the Gospel Music Icon Award, Arrested Development received the Hip Hop Icon Award, Tamia, received the Soul Music Icon Award. Leon Timbo and Major. performed a special tribute in honor of Rock and Roll Hame of Famer, Bill Withers. Breakthrough, the 20th Century Fox film about the true life story of the resurrection of John Smith, has won Inspirational Film of the Year at the 50th GMA Dove Awards. Executive produced by Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, the first Hispanic evangelical leader to serve as executive producer of a major theatrical release, the film marks an inflection point in the world of entertainment for the Spanish-speaking faith community. Breakthrough is based on the incredible true and gripping story of 14-year-old John Smith, who, after falling into an ice-covered lake, was pronounced dead. The movie stars This Is Us actress Chrissy Metz as John’s mother, Joyce Smith, who walked into her son’s hospital room praying loudly, calling out to God to save her son’s life. Immediately, John’s heart started beating. Defying every expert and all case history, John Smith miraculously walked out of the hospital on his own strength, only 16 days later. The movie, produced by filmmaker DeVon Franklin and directed by Roxann Dawson. Gold-selling gospel act, ANTHONY BROWN & group therAPy, have released their highly anticipated fourth album, 2econd Wind: Ready. The 13-track set includes the go-go flavored track, “Blessings on Blessings,” which spent three weeks at No. 1 and the mid-tempo “Real” which features the Grammy® Award nominated artist, Jonathan McReynolds. See Review of the album on http://gospel-spotlight.com/album_rvw.htm Sacramento Kings forward Harrison Barnes, his wife and Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Malik Jackson have offered to pay for the funeral of a Fort Worth, Texas, woman who was killed in her home by a police officer last week. Barnes has ties to the community, as he played two seasons for the Dallas Mavericks. “It’s about the family,” Barnes told reporters. “It’s about everything they’re going through. Our prayers obviously are with them. It was a gesture my wife and I wanted to do for them. “Anytime you come into a community, you always have a piece of that community with you and you want to give back.” On the next episode of CLEO TV's new travel series, LENS OF CULTURE, co-hosts Tai Beauchamp and Elton Anderson venture to the "City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection" - Philadelphia. Airing Saturday, October 19, at 12p.m. ET/11C, audiences will get to experience "the big city" with a small taste of country life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOlGzohgwKw&feature=youtu.be Multiple GRAMMY® Award-winning Gospel legend Donnie McClurkin continues to deliver heartfelt soul-stirring songs with the release of his new song “Pour My Praise On You." The new single is available now instantly with pre-order of McClurkin’s forthcoming album A Different Song. “Pour My Praise On You” marks the third single released from the album which is set for release on November 15th. https://donniemcclurkin.lnk.to/ADifferentSongAlbumVa Two-Time BMI Award-Winning composer, producer and music director Derrick Starks has a steady and consistent record of creating timeless musical masterpieces. He continues the tradition with a salute to the iconic Thomas Whitfield with the Legacy recording of his beloved ensemble The Whitfield Company on his newly minted label Starks Music Group distributed by UAMG/The Orchard/Sony Music. The live recording event takes place October 21st at the Greater Emmanuel Institutional Church of God in Christ in Detroit. Maryland Rep. Elijah E. Cummings, a sharecropper’s son who rose to become the powerful chairman of a U.S. House committee that investigated President Donald Trump, died early Thursday of complications from longstanding health issues, his office said. He was 68. Cummings was a formidable orator who passionately advocated for the poor in his black-majority district , which encompasses a large portion of Baltimore as well as more well-to-do suburbs. As chairman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, Cummings led multiple investigations of the president’s governmental dealings, including probes in 2019 relating to the president’s family members serving in the White House. Congreessman Elijah E. Cummings will truly be missed. Late Fall 2019 Shanachie Entertainment will release Isaac Carree’s anticipated label debut, No Risk No Reward. iteration of the gospel message." No Risk…No Reward features the album’s first single “HER.” This stunning ballad is a powerful anthem from men to their woman. It is Isaac Carree’s tribute to his wife Dietra. “I love my wife,” says Carree. “She deserves NOTHING but the best! We’ve grown together, we’ve had our ups and our downs but she stuck with me by my side. She’s loyal, she’s a prayer warrior, she’s the mother of our child, so this song embodies how GRATEFUL to God I am for HER!” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZMWXgjffyc&feature=youtu.be Lecrae, CEO and co-founder of Reach, made history in 2015 when he became the first hip-hop artist to win the coveted Artist Of the Year honor at the 46th Annual Dove Awards. At the 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards Reach Records won two Dove Awards: Rap/Hip-Hop Album Of The Year for Lecrae’s Let The Trap Say Amen collaborative studio album with Atlanta producer, Zaytoven, and Rap/Hip-Hop Recorded Song Of The Year for GAWVI’s “Fight For Me” single featuring Lecrae. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jF5kEWD9q-U&feature=youtu.be Missionary Baptist Church in Georgia is applying part of a donation to the church made by rapper Kanye West to establish scholarships at a historically black Christian college in Atlanta. Pastor Jamal Bryant announced during New Birth’s 9:30 a.m. service Sunday that the Stonecrest-based megachurch donated funds given by West to create two new scholarships at Morris Brown College. The scholarships are to be named after West’s mother, Donda, and New Birth first lady, Vanessa Long, the wife of the church’s late senior pastor Bishop Eddie Long. TV One's original auto-biographical series UNCENSORED features actress LisaRaye McCoy on Sunday, October 20 at 9 p.m. ET/8C. The edgy docu-series explores the private lives of some of today's most notable personalities. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_IGgLP_QL1I&feature=youtu.be Boxer Patrick Day has died after suffering serious brain injuries in his defeat against Charles Conwell in Chicago on Saturday. The American, 27, had been in a coma after being knocked out in the 10th round of his super welterweight clash on an Eddie Hearn card. He passed away on Wednesday evening. Tiger Woods to write new book. After four back surgeries, including a last-ditch fusion procedure, Woods returned to action in December of 2017. He won the 2018 Tour Championship, his first PGA Tour title in more than five years, before winning the 2019 Masters, his first major in more than a decade and his first green jacket since 2005. Back is described by HarperCollins as “a candid and intimate narrative of an outsize American life: from growing up a celebrated golfing prodigy to shattering centuries-old racial barriers as a young pro; from rising to unprecedented fame and global icon status to battling devastating injuries and personal issues; from enduring years of physical anguish to mounting an astonishing comeback at 43 years old, culminating with the 2019 Masters, where his thrillingly impossible victory captured the imagination and hearts of people around the world.” RCA Inspiration celebrates five wins at the 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards, with Kirk Franklin, Donald Lawrence, Le’Andria Johnson, and Koryn Hawthorne taking home Dove Awards in five categories this year. Garnering double wins, Gospel icons Kirk Franklin and Donald Lawrence each won two Dove Awards, with Johnson and Hawthorne winning one Dove Award apiece. Kirk Franklin won one of the night’s top honors, Gospel Artist of the Year, as well as Contemporary Gospel Recorded Song of the Year for his #1 smash hit “Love Theory.” Donald Lawrence’s album "Donald Lawrence Presents The Tri-City Singers, Goshen" won Traditional Gospel Album of the Year, while he and Le’Andria Johnson took home the award for Traditional Gospel Recorded Song of the Year, “Deliver Me (This Is My Exodus),” the single from "Goshen." Koryn Hawthorne won Contemporary Gospel Album of the Year for her "Unstoppable." Kirk Franklin created a signature blowout performance of his songs “Strong God” and “F.A.V.O.R” from his latest album, closing with his classic hit “Hosanna.” Donald Lawrence, Travis Greene, and Koryn Hawthorne also presented awards on the show. For Super Bowl-winning NFL coach and former NFL player Tony Dungy, the successes that he’s enjoyed in life are all because of Jesus. “I’ve had a lot of roles as a student, a son, [an] athlete, coach, father, all of those, but Christ comes first and that directs everything. I think that’s how I keep my balance,” Dungy told Christian Headlines in a sit-down interview. When reflecting on his life, the former NFL coach and father of ten said that sometimes he finds himself in awe of where his life has taken him. “I remember being on the sidelines, we’re winning the Super Bowl and there’s like a minute left and I know we’re gonna win, and thinking how did I get here? How am I, from little Jackson, Michigan, how am I coaching the Indianapolis Colts and we’re in the Super Bowl?” Dungy recalled. “It really is just God’s plan and his blessings and so many people kind of pouring into my life and shaping that,” he asserted. Not only did Dungy’s faith guide the trajectory of his career, but it also played a major role in his and his wife’s decision to adopt seven of their children. Kanye West no longer likes seeing his wife wear outfits that are too sexy, especially out in public, after declaring that he’s a born again Christian. A debate between West and his wife, Kim Kardashian West, over a revealing custom designer dress that ensued the night before the Met Gala in May was featured during Sunday night’s episode of “Keeping Up With the Kardashians.” In that episode, West expressed how his wife’s decision to wear sexy clothes in public negatively affects him. To which she replied that she’s not on the same path as him, referring to his newfound faith in Christ. West started hosting Sunday Service events at the top of the year that feature gospel music and, more recently, sermons. West became born again and found healing after he was diagnosed as having bipolar disorder. Jeopardy! host Alex Trebek, who five months ago attributed prayer for bringing him close to remission from stage 4 pancreatic cancer, has told a Canadian news program he is “nearing the end” of his life. “I’ve lived a full life, a good life, and I’m nearing the end of that life. I know that,” Trebek told CTV News anchor Lisa La Flamme. “I’m not gonna delude myself. If it happens, it happens. Why should I be afraid of that?” Trebek, the winner of multiple Daytime Emmy Awards, has spent more than 50 years in the entertainment industry, 35 of which as host of the popular “Jeopardy” game show. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame announced its new class of 16 nominees for induction in 2020 Tuesday, which includes The Notorious B.I.G., Whitney Houston, the Dave Matthews Band, Chaka Khan, Motörhead, Nine Inch Nails, Depeche Mode, and Judas Priest. The ceremony will go down in Cleveland, Ohio May 2. Pat Benatar, Soundgarden, T-Rex, Thin Lizzy, the Doobie Brothers, and MC5 also made the list. John Sykes, The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation’s incoming chairman, said earlier this month that the organization “could become irrelevant” if it doesn’t step up amid criticisms about diversity of previous inductees. “We have to evolve, and we have to change, because music is changing,” Sykes has said. Drake’s father claims the rapper has lied about him being an absentee father to sell records, to which his musician son responded, “The truth is hard for some people to accept.” The father, Dennis Graham, made the claim during a recent appearance on Nick Cannon’s “Close Conversations” show on Los Angeles’ Power 106. During the interview, Cannon told Graham that his father was not always present while he was growing up. Graham told Cannon that he had a “deep conversation” with Drake about this. “I have always been with Drake,” Graham said. “I talk to him, if not every day, every other day. And we really got into a deep conversation about that. I said, ‘Drake, why are you saying all this stuff about me, man? Like, this is not cool.'” Graham claims the rapper told him: “Dad, it sells records,” and that he responded, “OK, cool. Talk about me.” Simone Biles gushed over her ‘awesome’ boyfriend Stacey Ervin Jr. Wednesday after becoming the most decorated gymnast ever with 25 world championship medals. The 22-year-old solidified her place in history on Sunday in Germany when she won her 25th world championship medal. Now, she is setting her sights on the 2020 Olympics. Wednesday morning, she appeared on Today to celebrate her most recent win and gush over the support she receives from her parents and her boyfriend, Stacey Ervin Jr. ‘Every time it’s different, he basically just screams into the phone and tells me how proud he is of me. He’s an awesome times two,’ Biles said when asked how her boyfriend, who is also a gymnast, reacted to her historic win. Orlando Magic forward Jonathan Isaac didn’t enjoy missing most of his rookie season two years ago with an ankle injury, but in hindsight – he says – it was for the best. Isaac worked out during that time and put on much-needed muscle on his 6-foot-10 frame to improve his defense. He became a better all-around player. But he also grew spiritually. “I take that injury as God sitting me down, and getting my attention to set me up for the life and the career that He has for me,” Isaac, who is 22, told the Sports Spectrum Podcast. He is expected to play a big role this year, his third season. Off the court, he is known as one of the league’s most outspoken Christians. He talked about his faith to the crowd during the Magic’s Faith and Family Night. He frequently writes about his faith on Twitter and Instagram, too. The Rams have acquired Ramsey from the Jaguars for two first-round picks in 2020 and 2021 and a fourth-round pick in 2021, according to ESPN. Ramsey asked the Jaguars to trade him after a Week 2 spat with head coach Doug Marrone. He is either completely on board with the move or it’s done because he tweeted out a photo of him in Rams gear. Owner Shad Khan said he wanted to keep him but the Jaguars appear to have caved. The Rams also traded Marcus Peters to the Ravens earlier in the day Tuesday, so this move makes a lot more sense. The annual URBAN ONE HONORS Awards show is set for Thursday, December 5, 2019 at MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland. The two-hour telecast will air on TV One, a division of Urban One, January 20, 2020, the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. The televised event will herald the accomplishments of individuals who have made extraordinary contributions in entertainment, media, music, fashion, sports, education, and the community. It will also pay tribute to the 40-year history of Radio One, the radio division of the company, and its extraordinary founder, Cathy Hughes. The program will feature a star-studded line-up of presenters and honorees as well as special musical performances. It will serve as an annual commemoration of the achievements of black and brown people and broadcast their contributions to our culture and global society. Two-Time GRAMMY® Award, NAACP Image Award, Stellar and Dove Award-winning recording artist Jacky Clark-Chisholm, known as a member and eldest sister of three-time GRAMMY® Award-winning legendary group, The Clark Sisters has inked a distribution deal with Nashville-based record label United Alliance Music Group (UAMG) announced today. Under the terms of the new strategic distribution deal, UAMG will provide label services utilizing a “conception to completion” model, world-class A&R, marketing, radio promotions, publicity, consulting and function as a digital distributor through its Sony Music/The Orchard partnership for all master recordings and visuals. The National Black MBA Association® has announced Washington, DC as the home for their 42nd Annual Conference and Exposition, going down September 22-26, 2020. The organization will also celebrate a major milestone as it commemorates its 50th anniversary year. The NBMBAA® just concluded another a conference in Houston, Texas where the organization helped 9,000 attendees explore career opportunities and interview for valuable internships with companies including FedEx Corporation, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Johnson and Johnson, Liberty Mutual Insurance, Marriott International, Microsoft, Nationwide and a number of other leading Fortune 500 companies. Attendees were exposed to an array of informative sessions and workshops around professional growth, leadership development and entrepreneurship. The NBMBAA ® provided undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to compete for academic scholarships with the execution of its annual business case competitions. A white former Fort Worth police officer charged with murder after shooting a black woman through a window of her home has been released on bond, and the department told a grieving community that investigators would ensure “no stone is left unturned” in the search for answers. Jail records show Aaron Dean, 34, was out of custody after posting bond Monday night, less than four hours after his arrest in a shooting that began with a call about an open front door. He had been held on $200,000 bond. Earlier in the day he resigned from the force, and the police chief said he would have been fired if he hadn’t. LeBron James was accused of turning a blind eye to Chinese repression on Tuesday after he criticized a Houston Rockets executive for angering China with a “misinformed” tweet supporting protesters in Hong Kong. James told reporters that Rockets general manager Daryl Morey “wasn’t educated” on Hong Kong and should have kept his mouth shut, as the outspoken Lakers forward waded into a charged debate that other high-profile NBA figures have shied away from. “So many people could have been harmed not only financially but physically, emotionally and spiritually. So just be careful with what we tweet, and we say, and we do,” James told reporters. His remarks drew praise from Chinese social media users, who have savaged Morey for butting into the country’s affairs, but the US reaction on Twitter was swift and harsh. BET Networks continues its annual tradition of “going pink” in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness month and announces special programming including the network’s third annual “BET Her Fights: Breast Cancer” concert special, and original limited series “The Waiting Room.” Hosted by actress, Wendy Raquel Robinson the one-hour special, “BET Her Fights: Breast Cancer,” highlights touching stories and looks to build awareness amongst of African American women. The concert special will feature Nicole Bus, Jekalyn Carr, Samm Henshaw and Johnny Gill. Presenters will include Keisha Knight Pulliam, Syleena Johnson and the cast of BET + “Bigger;” Tanisha Long, Rasheda Crockett and Angell Conwell. Sunday, October 13th, Lighthouse Full Life Center celebrated its 16th Church Anniversary. It was marked with two momentous announcements. Bishop Marvin L. Sapp has appointed Rory Marshall as the new Senior Pastor of Lighthouse Full Life Center. Additionally, Bishop Sapp was in Grand Rapids to lead the church in the burning of its mortgage, leaving Marshall with a debt free ministry that will allow him to focus on preaching, teaching and outreach in true Lighthouse tradition. Marvin Sapp was Senior Pastor of Lighthouse Full Life Center until September of 2019, when he became Senior Pastor of Chosen Vessel Cathedral in Fort Worth, Texas. While Sapp remains as Chairman of the Board at Lighthouse, Rory Marshall, Jr. is the incoming Senior Pastor. Bishop J. Drew Sheard, Senior pastor of the Greater Emmanuel Institutional Church of God in Christ recently reinvigorated his ongoing 30-year commitment to community outreach and spreading the word of Christ. Bishop Sheard hosted the COGIC World Mission Awakening community event at his church to gift and help distribute back-to-school supplies to over 500 at-need children at GEI. GEI is an ever-growing megachurch that provides solace and succor to spiritual seekers, while instituting a wide range of community outreach programs for the greater Detroit area. DMX has canceled his upcoming slate of concerts in order to return to rehab, the rapper announced Saturday. “In his ongoing commitment to putting family and sobriety first, DMX has checked himself into a rehab facility,” DMX’s Instagram told fans. “He apologizes for his cancelled shows and thanks his fans for their continued support.” DMX was booked to perform Sunday at New York’s Rolling Loud festival, but when the festival unveiled today’s schedule this morning, he was not listed on the itinerary. DMX also no-showed on his appearance Thursday at Def Jam’s 35th anniversary party in Brooklyn.The rapper, who was released from prison on January 25th after serving a year behind bars on tax evasion charges and then embarked on a 20th anniversary tour celebrating his It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot, has been candid about his struggles with drug addiction; in 2017, DMX canceled a series of gigs in order to reenter a rehabilitation facility. Actor Robert Forster died Friday after a short battle with brain cancer. The 78-year-old appeared in the TV show “Breaking Bad” and its film spinoff “El Camino,” which was released on Netflix on Friday. He was nominated for an Oscar for his supporting role alongside Samuel L. Jackson, Pam Grier, and Robert De Niro as bail bondsman Max Cherry in “Jackie Brown.” Jackson tweeted a tribute to his former co-star, calling him a “class act.” Fort Worth police announced at a news conference Monday that the officer who shot and killed a woman in her home has resigned. Chief Ed Kraus identified the officer as Aaron Dean. He said he was going to fire the officer if he had not resigned. Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price said the shooting death of Atatiana Jefferson by a Fort Worth police officer is not justified. Coco Gauff put her hands on her face in disbelief, then pumped her arms in triumph on Sunday, celebrating the one thing her breakout season had been missing: a singles title. Gauff, 15, won the Upper Austria Ladies Linz, an indoor WTA tournament, in the penultimate week of the tour’s regular season, beating the 2017 French Open champion, Jelena Ostapenko, 6-3, 1-6, 6-2. The title made Gauff the youngest WTA singles champion in 15 years, since Nicole Vaidisova won two WTA titles in 2004, also as a 15-year-old. “I’ll definitely remember this moment for the rest of my life,” Gauff said on the court as she held her trophy. Patrick Day was in a coma after suffering a serious head injury Saturday night following a vicious knockout by unbeaten Charles Conwell during a boxing card in Chicago, US media reported. The 27-year-old Day was unconscious when he was taken from the ring in a stretcher and loaded onto a waiting ambulance. A fight broadcaster said Day suffered a seizure in the ambulance and needed a breathing tube once he arrived at the hospital. ESPN reported that Day had emergency brain surgery and went into a coma, but did not say whether he fell into the coma or it was induced by the doctors. Kanye West made a surprise appearance at Howard University’s homecoming Saturday morning. The megastar rapper brought his Sunday Service show to D.C. for a crowd that gathered at 8 a.m. on the Howard quad. Kanye performed new verses and raising his hands to the sky for the worship-style show. Grammy-award winning R&B singer Tony Williams presided over the service, conducting a mass of artists including choir singers, drummers and a brass band. Sunday Service wasn’t all music. Momolu Stewart and Halim Flowers, two D.C. men who were convicted in murder cases when they were teens, took the stage to tell their stories. Kim Kardashian West wrote a letter on behalf of Stewart’s petition to be released from prison after more than 20 years. Howard University kept their homecoming Yardfest lineup quiet this year, promising artists would be announced as they took the stage. Friday, huge crowds showed up to see DaBaby, Terrance J and Mack Wilds. Kanye has been bringing a worship-style concert to cities around the country in anticipation of “Jesus Is King: A Kanye West Experience,” a documentary-album hybrid. Simone Biles will finish what she is 99 percent sure is her final world championships with the most medals in history. Biles earned a record-breaking 24th and 25th medals, winning the balance beam and floor exercise on the last day of the meet on Sunday. She earned five gold medals alone at these worlds, believed to be the most by one gymnast since Soviets Larisa Latynina and Boris Shakhlin in 1958 (when Latynina was pregnant). THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW WELCOMES VAN LATHAN, ACTORS LAMMAN RUCKER, HENRY SIMMONS AND MORE AT 11 P.M ET/10C! International lifestyle TV Personality and Producer, Tai Beauchamp and celebrity photographer Elton Anderson take viewers to the sunny- side of Palm Springs, California on the next episode of CLEO TV's new travel series, LENS OF CULTURE. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ac-1M8b1bGo&feature=youtu.be Grisanthia Franklin, “San” as she is affectionately called, hails from the Oakland-San Francisco Bay Area by way of Chicago, Illinois. Now making Nashville her home, San Franklin is in a focused season in her life, poised for greater works with incredible outcomes. Being noted as one of Gospel and Christian music's most commanding vocalists and professional session singers, San Franklin is strategically stretching her artistry and ministry beyond any boarders that man can establish. Earlier this year, San hosted her first live recording in Nashville, TN. The outcome of a dynamic, worshipful night has yielded her new single "Blessing Me". With guest vocalist Chrystal Rucker, San dishes out a churchy, robust song, capturing the essence of her talent and depth of her anointing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GmQRfp-y8Eg&feature=youtu.be CELEBRATE SISTER CIRCLE'S HOMECOMING WEEK WITH THE ATLANTA HAWKS CHEERLEADERS, R&B SINGER TANK, ERICA CAMPBELL AND MANY MORE! GRAMMY®, Billboard Award-nominated, and DOVE Award-winning triple-threat artist Tauren Wells announces the release date for his highly anticipated sophomore album, Citizen of Heaven, the follow-up to his award-winning debut solo album, Hills and Valleys, which launched in 2017 just as Wells was joining Lionel Richie’s All The Hits Tour with special guest Mariah Carey. Citizen of Heaven is available now for pre-order now and will release everywhere January 24, 2020. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fbDdqAgsqPA&feature=youtu.be Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed won the Nobel Peace Prize for 2019 in recognition of his efforts to end his country’s two-decade border conflict with Eritrea. The Norwegian Nobel Institute on Friday also praised the “important reforms” that Abiy, Ethiopia’s leader since April 2018, has launched at home. The prize comes as Abiy faces pressure to uphold the sweeping freedoms he introduced, and critics warn that his ability to deal with rising domestic unrest may be slipping. The Nobel committee said some people may consider it too early to give him the prize, but “it is now that Abiy Ahmed’s efforts need recognition and deserve encouragement.” The award, the 100th Nobel Peace Prize, reflects the committee’s taste for trying to encourage works in progress. The hometown of renowned opera star Jessye Norman is continuing four days of honoring her life. Augusta, Georgia, officials plan on Friday to name the street outside the arts school Norman opened in 2003 after her. The Jessye Norman School of the Arts provides free fine arts education to disadvantaged children. The ceremony was planned before Norman died Sept. 30 at 74 . One of the few black singers to gain worldwide stardom in the opera world, Norman had hoped to attend the celebration. Her studio is a block from another street honoring an Augusta music giant — James Brown. Two decades ago, gospel singer Donnie McClurkin stepped on a London stage to record his second album. Now, he’s returning to the United Kingdom for 20th anniversary concerts on Oct. 18 and 19 to reprise the music of his “Live in London and More” CD that featured songs like “That’s What I Believe” and “We Fall Down.” The Grammy-winning pastor of Perfecting Faith Church, Freeport, N.Y., says he latched onto the popularity of black gospel music that existed overseas long before his 1999 concert. “People like Andrae Crouch and Edwin Hawkins and the like, they made the music global so it was all a byproduct of the global impact that American gospel had,” he said. Oscar-winning actor Cuba Gooding Jr. learned on Thursday that he’s facing a new undisclosed charge in his sexual misconduct case, a development that came as jury selection was set to begin for his trial in New York City. At a court hearing in Manhattan, Assistant District Attorney Jenna Long revealed the charge is contained in a sealed indictment. She told a judge that the indictment covers previous allegations as well as a “previously uncharged incident,” which will remain sealed until Gooding is due back in court on Tuesday, October 15. https://youtu.be/lfyHAu9ay38 Security footage has emerged showing the horrifying moment world champion boxer Errol Spence Jr. flipped his Ferrari and was ejected onto the pavement before other cars slowly drove by the wreckage and his injured body without stopping. The 29-year-old unified welterweight champion was rushed to a Dallas-area hospital early Thursday morning and is expected to recover. The Washington Mystics, with the best record in the league, and the Connecticut Sun, with the second-best record, locked in a two-possession, back-and-forth contest with four minutes left in a winner-take-all Game 5. Relying on scoring from WNBA MVP Elena Delle Donne, stellar two-way play from Emma Meesseman off the bench and fourth-quarter scoring burst from Natasha Cloud, the Mystics defeated the Sun 89-78 on Thursday. It was the Mystics’ first championship, the first title for Delle Donne and the first WNBA championship for Mystics coach and basketball lifer Mike Thibault, who was an NBA assistant before deciding to switch leagues 16 years ago. Faith Star Radio, the new, first-of-its-kind multi-genre faith-based internet radio station, announces that it has joined the elite ranks of Nielsen BDS monitored stations – a rarity for internet-based platforms. Faith Star Radio plays the best in Gospel and Christian music, including Praise & Worship, CCM, Christian Hip Hop and more, while creating programming and events that uplift the community through arts and entertainment. Programming highlights include Faith Star Hits, Coffee House (live acoustic sets), Worship Unlimited, Decade Hits (#1 hits of the 70's 80's and 90's), Top 20 Countdown and much more. Vanessa Howard is an evangelist, an entrepreneur, a vocal Coach, a Gospel recording artist, and a profound Public Speaker.Today, she has intersected Gospel with Classical music to form a mellifluous flow of musical artistry that is as rich as honey and smooth as silk. Vanessa returns in 2019 with a fresh 4-song EP INSTANTLY. Her anticipated debut Gospel album boasts the high praise radio single “Alright”, which is impacting Gospel radio now. INSTANTLY will be released worldwide on October 18. Stellar nominee Renee Spearman debuts #2 on Billboard's Top Albums Sales Chart this week! “I LOVE HIM”, the 12-track album featuring gospel icon Hezekiah Walker and Hollywood mogul Dr. Holly Carter is also burning up the radio charts as well. The highly-anticipated follow-up to “whoa to WOW!” , Renee's hit CD debuted #4 on the charts and featured the choir classic “Great God”, Renee’s new hit CD “I LOVE HIM” features an all-star cast including not only the incomparable Hezekiah Walker but also gospel trailblazer Dorinda Clark-Cole. Oprah Winfrey has been with her partner Stedman Graham for 32 years, but she doesn’t regret at all that they never tied the knot or had children. The 65-year-old covers the new issue of People this week, and told the magazine that the longtime couple’s ‘untraditional’ relationship has stayed strong all these years precisely because she and Stedman, 68, never got married. The media mogul met her longtime love in 1986, and they even got engaged in 1992 — but they never went through with a wedding. Of course, not getting married doesn’t mean a couple can’t have kids, but Oprah ultimately decided that wasn’t a path she should go down. Getting married and starting a family weren’t always off the table. In fact, at one point while living in Chicago, Oprah even bought an additional apartment to make room for her family to grow. But over time, her thoughts on the subject changed, even while best friend Gayle King — who has two kids — told her she’d regret it. Still, Oprah said: ‘I have not had one regret about that.’ TV One's original auto-biographical series UNCENSORED features supermodel Tyra Banks on Sunday, October 13 at 9 p.m. ET/8C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=797ZWIFEa8I&feature=youtu.be During the live telecast of The REAL Daytime Talk Show, co-host Loni Love broke into tears as she revealed the release of her new "I Tried to Change So You Don't Have To" memoir. An inspiring, hilarious memoir about learning to resist the pressures of conformity, love yourself for who you are, embrace your flaws, and unlock your true potential is set to release May 5, 2020. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gf6fxXFxIQw After coming out of retirement and joining the New England Patriots this past spring, NFL tight end Benjamin Watson was released by the team Monday. Watson, 38, announced the news in a statement on Twitter: “I gave my all, but it was not enough to earn a spot on the Patriots’ roster.” “I’m beyond disappointed but even more upset for my family who has supported me with all the love a husband and father could ask for,” the father of five added. “They are my heroes.” “The God of victory is also a God in failure,” he added, ending his statement with a reference to Romans 8:28, which reads, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Lecrae fresh off of speaking at Stanford University presenting a workshop "Controlling The Narrative" for the d.School at Stanford University, Lecrae continues to make investments for next generation of content creators. Sharing the news about MXD, an innovative software that changes the game for indie artist, A&R, producers, podcasters, editors, film creators, etc. Anyone can use MXD to create incredible professional high-quality mixes for songs, podcasts, or commercials. Just upload your tracks, choose your sound profile and for less than a hundred dollars, you can get a fully mixed professional audio delivered to your inbox in 48 hours or less. The Stellar Awards date for next year has been set for Friday, March 27, 2020 and will be returning to the Orleans Hotel, Las Vegas, NV. Stellar Awards submissions accepted online from October 15 – 31, 2019 at www.thestellarawards.com . The Gathering is Casey J’s call to praise the Lord. It’s a tender reminder of God’s admonition to Believers to forsake not the assembling of themselves together.The Stellar Award winning Worship Leader sings of the Lord’s agenda to solicit our attention and praise on this enchanting and inspirational new gospel anthem. Javon Inman drops his newest offering "Today Is My Day." It is a contemporary and soulful track from with an infectious 'wanna make you sing along" hook, Javon's powerful vocals and honest lyrics. He shares his trials and triumphs in becoming a recording artist where the "no's" from music industry executives fueled his faith and dream to never give up. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wzco7qy31T0&feature=youtu.be Alabama’s capital Montgomery, a city once considered a cradle to the Confederacy and later revered as the birthplace of the civil rights movement, has elected the first African American mayor in its 200-year history. Probate Judge Steven Reed, 45, clasped the history-making victory after defeating local television station owner David Woods by a decisive margin, winning by around 67% of the vote in Tuesday’s mayoral runoff, according to unofficial returns. ‘This election has never been about me,’ Reed told a cheering crowd, after his triumph was announced. ‘This election has never been about just my ideas. It’s been about all of the hopes and dreams that we have as individuals and collectively in the city.’ Grammy award-winning singer Lauren Daigle appeared on “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” where she performed a Christian song. Daigle gave a soulful performance of her song “Still Rolling Stones” before the New York studio audience on Monday. In the tune, Daigle talks about the power of resurrection. https://youtu.be/5KMgS-X-hkI After days of speculation surrounding the shooting of Joshua Brown, a witness in the Amber Guyger trial, Dallas police identified three suspects Tuesday in connection with Brown’s death. The second of the three, Michael Diaz Mitchell, had been taken into custody in Louisiana. Earlier that day, Assistant Chief Avery Moore said that one of the suspects, Jacquerious Mitchell, 20, was in custody at Parkland Hospital. During that news conference, held at Dallas police headquarters, officials said Brown was fatally shot Friday in a drug deal gone bad at an apartment complex. The third suspect, Thaddeous Charles Green, 22, remains at large. The timing of Brown’s death raised public speculation about whether the shooting was somehow tied to his testimony. Stephen A. Smith brought up the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in response to the Hong Kong-China controversy on ESPN’s First Take on Tuesday. Smith was speaking about the ongoing NBA controversy surrounding Rockets general manger Daryl Morey after his pro-Hong Kong tweet. Smith was then immediately cut off by co-host Molly Qerim as she said ‘Let’s take a commercial break’. ESPN is known for urging its employees to stay away from politics, and instead only report about sports. Morey’s support for the protests in the Chinese-ruled city angered Beijing, Chinese fans and the team’s business partners in a key NBA market. The “handshake-gate” no one really asked for looks to be reaching its denouement. It all started when San Francisco 49ers cornerback Richard Sherman blasted Cleveland Browns quarterback for allegedly not shaking his hand during the pregame captain’s meeting before the 49ers throttled the Browns on Monday night. But a video showing Sherman and Mayfield shaking hands circulated around social media Tuesday. “It’s definitely my bad,” Sherman said. “I never want anybody to have to deal with some (expletive), I mean, some stuff that they didn’t do. And so, you know, the questions that he’s gonna get and the annoying, nonsense questions about some stuff that happened in a game that’s already been done, sure he’ll get an apology for that. I’ll probably reach out to him via text or social media to actually get a hold of him and talk to him in the person, I mean, on the phone. The youngest son of former Sacramento Kings star Mitch Richmond has died unexpectedly at the age of 20, his family has confirmed.The retired professional basketball player, 54, confirmed the devastating news that his son Shane had passed away in a statement released on Tuesday. He said: ‘It is with great sadness and pain that we inform you that our youngest son, Shane, unexpectedly passed away last night. ‘We are heartbroken and devastated with this tragic news and will use the strength of our family and the thoughts and prayers of our friends to get through this incredibly difficult time. A cause of death for Shane was not immediately clear. Richmond is best remembered for his time with the Warriors, where he teamed with Mullin and point guard Tim Hardaway to form the famed ‘Run TMC’ offense. On Saturday, October 5, 2019 history was made in Atlanta, GA. The first ever fully Black Owned Studio opened its doors to the public and for business. Getting a preview of what the studio has to offer was just about all of Black Hollywood’s elite as they descended upon the grand opening of Tyler Perry Studios, which also incidentally stands on a former Confederate Army base. Some of Perry’s impressive and notable guests at the grand opening gala included Oprah Winfrey, Ava DuVernay, Cicely Tyson, Whoopi Goldberg, David and Tamela Mann, Kirk and Tammy Franklin, Michelle Williams, Kelly Rowland, Samuel L. Jackson, Stacey Abrams, Halle Berry, Tiffany Haddish, Yolanda Adams as well as the Clark Sisters who performed, Gale King, Anthony Hamilton, Bishop T D Jakes and even a surprise appearance by Beyoncé and Jay-Z. Perry also delivered a moving tribute to the late Diahann Carroll during the weekend gathering. “Her level of grace, class and inspiration was just beyond anything I could ever imagine. The very fact that we were able to have her on the planet at the same time as we are, we should all be very, very blessed,” Perry stated. What’s even more impressive about Tyler Perry Studios is “The studio lots of Disney, Warner Bros, Paramount, Fox and Sony could all fit inside Tyler Perry’s studio lot at the same time - and there would still be 60 acres to spare,” DuVernay stated in a Tweet. Before Perry’s guests left their amazing weekend, Perry reminded everyone ”If you can Dream it, you can surely achieve it!” Inspirational Soul Artist Travis Malloy is the music industry’s “Best Kept Secret.” The ASCAP award-winning, Grammy nominated singer/songwriter & producer has worked with music industry legends Fred Hammond, Coko (SWV), Stevie J, Kirk Franklin, Faith Evans, Corey Rooney, Kool and the Gang and many more. This genre blending artist releases his most recent project FAITH JOURNEY to all digital music platforms. FAITH JOURNEY is comprised of 13 tracks that span from the 90’s inspired trackWORLD GO ROUND, paying homage to artists of that era like Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Teddy Riley and After 7 to the trap gospel track GOTCHU. Hafsat Abiolais one of three honorees selected for the National Civil Rights Museum’s 28th Annual Freedom Award to held October 30. Honorees are selected for their many achievements and contributions on a national and global scale in the name of equality, social justice and freedom for all. Other 2019 honorees include musician and social activist, John Legend and author and feminist organizer, Gloria Steinem. Hafsat Abiola, president and CEO of Women in Africa, is a noted Nigerian human and civil rights activist. Since age 19, she has been working to ensure democracy and economic fairness in Nigeria in the name of her deceased mother and father. An evolving changemaker in both Nigeria and the United States, Abiola uses her global platforms to empower women through training and leadership development and strengthen civil society in Nigeria and other African countries through her founding organization, KIND. Artist Shanequa Gay’s immersive, site-specific exhibition LIT WITHOUT SHERMAN celebrates Atlanta’s historic West End neighborhood. Integrating a mix of mediums, the exhibit includes murals painted onto the museum walls, specially designed toile schema wallpaper, and interactive video vignettes which tell West End stories. The exhibit has been so popular, with many patrons visiting several times, that it has been extended. LIT WITHOUT SHERMAN: A Love Letter To The West End will be on view through December 22, 2019 at Hammonds House Museum, Atlanta, GA. Every vote counts and Elections have consequences! The 2020 presidential elections will definitely have consequences and it will be important that every vote is counted and accounted for. Everyone and everything in this country is impacted by someone in a position of political leadership who shapes public policy and who makes decisions regarding the very legislation that we must all adhere to, in one way or another. This includes city councilmembers, mayors, governors, judges, county, state and federal representatives, and even our President. One group that has made a major impact in this country and that has done a great job of engaging and energizing people of color relative to getting involved in social issues and politics has been the Black Lives Matter (BLM) Global Network. The U.S. women aren’t perfect, after all. Their streak is, however. The Americans won their fifth consecutive title at the world championships Tuesday despite having to count a fall for the first time in almost a decade. The five titles in a row ties a record set by Romania from 1994 to 2001. The win also gives Simone Biles her 21st medal at worlds, most for a female gymnast. Only Vitaly Scherbo of Belarus has more, and his record of 23 is all but certain to fall before this meet is over. Biles is all but assured of winning the all-around title Thursday, and she qualified for all four event finals. When LeBron James gets off a plane in China Tuesday, he better be ready. Reporters will be waiting. For the Brooklyn Nets and the Los Angeles Lakers. But especially LeBron. And if he wants to preserve his sterling and well-deserved reputation as an athlete willing to risk backlash while speaking out against social injustice, he must convey: ?He supports the right to free speech ?He believes in a free and open society. He and members of the Lakers and Nets walk into controversy sparked by Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey, who on Friday night tweeted support for Hong Kong independence. Morey’s tweet was a nod to the Hong Kong protesters fighting a plan that would allow extraditions to mainland China, where democratic rights cease to exist for those accused of crimes. Pastor Jamal H. Bryant of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church will host the Inaugural Imaginariums Film and Music Festival October 18th & 19th on their campus in Lithonia. "Imaginariums is a film festival of radical approach that endeavors to illuminate the arts to inspire the spirit," says Dr. Bryant. The intent of the festival is to provide opportunities and a platform for emerging artists that otherwise might not be heard. In fact, the mission of the festival and newly appointed Pastor Bryant is two-fold: to continue to promote Atlanta as the new film mecca for people of all races; and to showcase films and provide networking opportunities that will develop the next generation of filmmakers, musicians, and actors. Louis Gossett Jr, Bill Duke, Robert Townsend, James Fortune, Terry Vaughn, Timon Kyle Durrett, Lisa Wu, Isaac Carree, Todd Bridges, Carl Payne and Travis Malloy are planning to attend. Former first lady Michelle Obama is releasing a second book to accompany her extremely popular memoir Becoming. The new book, Becoming: A Guided Journal for Discovering Your Voice, is intended to help readers capture their life journeys, as Obama did in writing her memoir. The book will feature “more than 150 inspiring questions and quotes that resonate with key themes in Mrs. Obama’s memoir and that are designed to help readers reflect on their personal and family history, their goals, challenges, and dreams, what moves them and brings them hope, and what future they imagine for themselves and their community.” The book will also feature an introduction by Obama. In an excerpt from the introduction, the former first lady writes about how she rediscovered the value of journaling in writing her memoir. The guided journal is set to be released Nov. 19. The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund called for an independent investigation of the shooting death of Joshua Brown, who was a witness in the case of former Dallas police officer Amber Guyger, as his slaying Friday touched off an outcry around the country. Brown’s death came days after Guyger, a white officer who was off duty, was convicted and sentenced to 10 years for murder in the death of Botham Jean, a black man whom Guyger shot in his own apartment last year. After Brown was fatally shot at an apartment complex on Cedar Springs Road, some raised questions about whether the shooting was tied to his testimony. During the weekend, Phil Thornton, Senior Vice President and General Manager of RCA Inspiration, was honored by The Living Legends Foundation’s Annual Awards Dinner and Gala, where he received the Gospel Music Executive Award. Thornton was recognized among The Living Legends Foundation’s ten honorees at their yearly awards dinner and gala, which supports the Foundation’s mission honoring top professionals and pioneers in the music and entertainment industries. Kelly Rowland presented Thornton with his award. In addition to Rowland, other celebrities in attendance included Bobby Brown, Israel Houghton, and Adrienne Houghton. Nationally renowned religious and human rights trailblazer Bishop Oliver Clyde Allen, III, Presiding Bishop, Senior Pastor of the Vision Cathedral of Atlanta and Executive Director of Vision Community Foundation Inc. has been selected to be an officer of the DNC LGBTQ Caucus Advisory Board. Allen will serve as Southern Regional Vice-Chair of the DNC LGBTQ Caucus Advisory Board and will continue his commitment to empowering LGBTQ people in the Democratic ecosystem and continue his focus to benefit the Democratic Party’s efforts to win in 2020. Bishop Oliver Clyde Allen, III previously served as a member of the prestigious Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS (PACHA) appointed by President Barack Obama. He currently serves on a number of boards including Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms LGBT Advisory Board in Atlanta, Georgia. THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW WELCOMES VANESSA BELL CALLOWAY, OMAR MILLER, KURUPT AND JOE TORRY AT 11 P.M ET/10C! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZudDQzg969k&feature=youtu.be Vickie Winans Apologizes to Her Husband Marvin Winans for Not Being the Wife She Should Have Been, Apologizes to Her Children for Not Being the Mother She Should Have Been, and Apologizes to the Whole Church. https://youtu.be/wFg8u23873Y Thirty years ago, Pastor Marvin Winans was singing with three of his brothers in the gospel group The Winans and touring with his musical play, “Don’t Get God Started,” after its Broadway run. He also started a church. Beginning with just eight members meeting in the basement of his house in the Detroit suburb of Birmingham, Winans became the pastor of Perfecting Church, a Pentecostal congregation. For Perfecting Church’s Oct. 11 anniversary gala, Winans, 61, has invited social justice activist Bryan Stevenson to speak. BeBe and CeCe Winans, his singing siblings, also are slated to perform. Fast forward three decades and Winans is marking the anniversary of his church, now with 1,800 members in the Motor City, while remaining committed to helping his community through the schools and ministries he has started to help train youth and give women a safe place to live. Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan disclosed Wednesday that he will be the majority investor in the nation’s only 24-hour news network aimed at African American viewers, giving the network a deep pocket as it launches next month. The network has been in the works for years and an announcement about its launch was made earlier this year. But Khan’s backing gives it a substantial boost. He declined to say how much he would invest initially but said it would be enough to keep the network running for a long time. Khan is worth an estimated $8 billion and made his fortune in the auto equipment industry. As well as the Jaguars, he owns Fulham Football Club of the English Football League, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto and All Elite Wrestling. Former Republican U.S. Rep. J.C. Watts, who was a star quarterback at the University of Oklahoma in the 1980s, will be chairman of the new network. It will be available via cable and satellite viewers in 33 million households. New Orleans Saints Linebacker Demario Davis was fined thousands of dollars for wearing a headband during last Sunday’s game that reads “Man of God.” The 30-year-old Saints captain, a third-round pick by the New York Jets in the 2012 draft, took to Instagram to tell his followers that he was fined $7,017 by the league for a uniform infraction. The infraction occurred in the Saints’ 33-27 win over the Seattle Seahawks on Sept. 22. Davis wore a gold headband with the phrase “Man of God” in black lettering across the front underneath his helmet. The headband was visible during moments in which Davis had his helmet off. Simone Biles doesn’t shy away from calling out injustices. Her aim this time around is the International Gymnastics Federation. (FIG) The FIG women’s technical committee announced Tuesday the point values for 10 new elements submitted for evaluation at the world championships in Germany. Three belong to Biles and one tweet said everything about her reaction to the news. “hahahaHAHAHAHAHhahaHahaAhahAhahahaAhahahHAHAahaaaaaaaHa bull—” she wrote. Biles told NBC Sports’ Nick Zaccardi she’s “pissed off” and it’s unfair the organization doesn’t credit harder artistry and skills when they ask athletes for more. Diahann Carroll, the captivating singer and actress who came from the Bronx to win a Tony Award, receive an Oscar nomination and make television history with her turns on Julia and Dynasty, died Friday. She was 84. Carroll died at her home in Los Angeles after a long bout with cancer, her daughter, producer-journalist Suzanne Kay, told The Hollywood Reporter. Carroll was known as a Las Vegas and nightclub performer and for her performances on Broadway and in the Hollywood musicals Carmen Jones and Porgy & Bess when she was approached by an NBC executive to star as Julia Baker, a widowed nurse raising a young son, on the comedy Julia. CATCH T.I., LIL YACHTY, NIVEA, BJ The CHICAGO KID, BERN NADETTE STANIS, DAY 26 AND MANY MORE NEXT WEEK ON SISTER CIRCLE LIVE. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EW4hRWxFsMk&feature=youtu.be Lupita Nyong’o has released a new children’s book that she hopes will serve as a ‘mirror’ for dark-skinned children who don’t often see images of themselves in mainstream media. In a lengthy post on social media, Nyong’o shared her own experiences with colorism discrimination is why she wrote, “Sulwe,” which means ‘star.’ The Academy Award-winning actress said Sulwe is designed to hold a “mirror for dark-skinned children especially, to see themselves reflected, immediately.” She added, “Colorism, society’s preference for lighter skin, is alive and well. It’s not just a prejudice reserved for places with a largely white population. Throughout the world, even in Kenya, even today, there is a popular sentiment that lighter is brighter”, Nyong’o wrote. Gospel music powerhouse ANTHONY BROWN & group therAPy releases lyric video for song “Real” featuring GMA Dove Award Winner Jonathan McReynolds from the upcoming album, 2econd Wind: Ready, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBexSmg2xFU The highly anticipated 4th Annual 2019 Black Music Honors airs in major cities including; New York, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Atlanta and Detroit starting this weekend until October 20th. The show was hosted by Rickey Smiley and LeToya Luckett-Walker is currently airing in national broadcast syndication. Honoree Xscape, received the Urban Music Icon Award, Freddie Jackson received the Legend Award, Yolanda Adams received the Gospel Music Icon Award, Arrested Development received the Hip Hop Icon Award Tamia, received the Soul Music Icon Award. Leon Timbo and Major. performed a special tribute in honor of Rock and Roll Hame of Famer, Bill Withers. https://www.dropbox.com/sh/4qki6egk0jkwg35/AADZEtgCACEYFRmw4aMIdAVDa?dl=0&preview=Le%27Andria+Johnson+x+Kelly+Price+x+Jekalyn+Carr.mp4 Alvin Darling Releases New Single "Leave It Alone" https://www.dropbox.com/s/ckxwco9gms35z9y/Alvin%20Darling%20-%20Leave%20It%20Alone.mp3?dl=0 The popularity of Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has soared into the stratosphere in just over one season as the starter, each no-look or left-handed passes drawing a fresh chorus of acclaim. It’s not just the fans that are the fans, either. “It’s kind of cool to see some of the stuff he does,” said Colts counterpart Jacoby Brissett, who will get to see Mahomes first-hand when his team heads to Arrowhead Stadium Sunday night. “Hopefully he doesn’t do it this week, but the things he can do with the ball, it’s very impressive.” So impressive that Brissett even said, rather sheepishly: “You just watch and you’re like, ‘Yeah, I can’t do that.’ But it’s fun to see somebody else.” Brissett isn’t alone, either. It seems just about every coach tasked with slowing down the league MVP, or defensive guy forced to make a play against him, is simultaneously challenged and in awe by what Mahomes can do. World premiere of new music video from singer, actress Deborah Joy Winans. “When I Rose” premiered Thursday, October 3 on BET Gospel.https://www.bet.com/video/bet-gospel/2019/deborah-joy-winans-when-i-rose.html After racking up 38.2 million followers on Instagram, Will Smith is the latest celebrity content creator to begin posting on TikTok. In his first post on Wednesday night, special effects wizard and video content creator, Caleb Natale is seen scrolling through photos of Smith in his phone while Andy Mineo and Lecrae's “Coming In Hot,” plays in the background. Suddenly Smith is plucked from the screen and into reality. Dazed and confused, he glances around stating, "I guess I'm on TikTok now. https://tiktokfeed.com/lecrae-andy-mineo-coming-in-hot/tiktok-music/dGlrdG9rZmVlZHw1MDAwMDAwMDAxNDEzMzczMTg1 Lauren Daigle‘s “You Say” posts its 62nd week at No. 1 on Billboard‘s streaming-, airplay- and sales-based Hot Christian Songs chart, breaking the record for the longest reign since the survey launched in 2003. The track passes Hillsong United’s “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail),” which began its 61-frame rule in December 2013. https://youtu.be/sIaT8Jl2zpI Demi Lovato took to Instagram yesterday to open up about her trip to Israel and baptism in the Jordan River. She posted several pictures of her trip and baptism, saying she had never felt such a spiritual connection to God before.“I am an American singer,” she wrote. “I was raised Christian and have Jewish ancestors. When I was offered an amazing opportunity to visit the places I’d read about in the Bible growing up, I said yes. There is something absolutely magical about Israel. I’ve never felt such a sense of spirituality or connection to God.” Lovato says this sense of spiritual connection is something she’s been missing for years now. Clueless’ actress Stacey Dash was arrested in Florida on a domestic battery charge for pushing and slapping a man across the face following a “verbal argument,” police said. Dash, 52, was taken into custody Sunday by the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in Land O’ Lakes, about 25 miles north of Tampa. Dash hit the man after they started arguing, according to the sheriff’s office. He had scratches on his upper left arm from being pushed, deputies said. She was taken to a jail in Land O’ Lakes without further incident. A white Dallas police officer who said she mistook a neighbor’s apartment for her own and fatally shot him in his living room was sentenced Wednesday to a decade in prison in a stunning courtroom scene that included the dead man’s brother and the black judge embracing the sobbing officer. People outside of the courtroom reacted angrily to the sentence given to Amber Guyger in the death of Botham Jean, believing it was too lenient. But Jean’s brother addressed her directly from the witness stand.Brandt Jean told Guyger that his brother would have wanted her to turn her life over to Christ, and that if she can ask God for forgiveness, she will get it. https://youtu.be/Nh8xrFxkQhw The initial line-up for Pastor Donnie McClurkin's 60th Birthday All-Star Tribute Concert was announced today. It will go down Saturday, November 16 at the Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral of New York, Jamaica NY. Gospel music lovers can expect a powerful evening of worship, and inspiration from CeCe Winans, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Erica Campbell, Kierra Sheard, and Jonathan McReynolds. The concert will be hosted by Kirk Franklin. TV One's original auto-biographical series UNCENSORED returns for its second season with the premiere episode spotlighting singer/actress Tisha Campbell on Sunday, October 6 at 9 p.m. ET/8C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oG3HRKYnyxs&feature=youtu.be Their raised fists were as legendary as they were controversial. Tommie Smith and John Carlos, known for their Black Power salute during the 1968 Olympics medal ceremonies, have earned induction into the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame. The induction is scheduled for Nov. 1. Smith’s and Carlos’ gestures of declaration, performed at the height of the civil rights movement in the U.S., were among the most powerful statements made during that era in American history. The two athletes courageously used the world’s biggest stage to take a stand against racism, injustice, and inequality. Their selection to the Hall of Fame, an honor based on character, conduct, and off-field contributions, comes 51 years after the U.S. Olympic Committee — and much of White America — vilified the heroes. Today, Larry Irving becomes the first African American to be part of the elite ranks of notable individuals inducted into the Internet Hall of Fame. He joins internet luminaries, such as Vint Cerf, Marc Andreessen and Tim Berners-Lee, honored for their significant contributions to the advancement of the global internet. The Internet Hall of Fame is inducting Irving, who is widely credited for coining the term “digital divide”, for his impact on increasing internet access among unserved and underserved populations. Irving served for almost seven years as Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information and Administrator of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), where he was a principal advisor to President Bill Clinton, Vice President Al Gore and Secretary of Commerce Ron Brown on domestic and international telecommunications and information technology issues. Kansas City-born gospel soprano, Chrystal Rucker has dropped an inspiring new song of hope entitled "Take Your Burdens," written and produced by gospel hitmaker, Asaph A. Ward. Opera legend Jessye Norman died Monday at age 74. The soprano died from septic shock and multi-organ failure secondary to complications of a spinal cord injury she had sustained in 2015. Norman was born in Georgia to a musical family. As a child, she sang in the church gospel choir and listened to the Metropolitan Opera via radio. At 16, she entered a singing competition named after her idol — Marian Anderson. Norman did not win, but was offered a full scholarship to Howard University. A Dallas County jury convicted fired officer Amber Guyger of murder for fatally shooting Botham Jean in his apartment last year. Cheers broke out in the hallway outside the courtroom after the verdict was announced. Jurors will now resume deliberating to decide Guyger’s punishment. Guyger, 31, fatally shot 26-year-old Jean in his apartment last year. She had said she mistook his apartment for her own and thought Jean was a burglar. Kanye West has paraded his Sunday Service through a number of venues and churches across the country over the past few months in an effort to promote his upcoming album Jesus Is King. But in New York, West’s latest service missed the spiritual mark and, instead, gave the congregation a deeper look into how the music artist truly views himself. Service was fairly typical at the Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral on Sunday in Jamaica, Queens. Then, after the preacher closed his sermon, the podium was moved from the pulpit to the house floor. The crowd suddenly swelled, as dozens of first-time guests were spread throughout the audience, waiting for the tardy Kanye West performance to begin. But the spectacle didn’t start until Kim Kardashian West sauntered in through the side door. Other celebrity guests slipped in through the back of the church. For the non-VIPs it remained a standing-room only affair, as droves of people stood in rows behind the pews with no seats left for a clear view. The experience was moving, but not for the expected reasons (and possibly why several regular members walked out in the middle of the performance). The choir’s harmonies were awe-inspiring—despite the pre-recorded songs playing alongside their singing. They were enthusiastic, dancing and clapping in rhythm—even if West only accompanied them on a few songs by playing the keyboard, occasionally rapping lyrics from his secular songs that he’s retooled to make religious, or by crooning an off-key solo. Del Lawrence (aka Mr. Del) is a Grammy, Dove, and Stellar nominated music artist, author, and Love & Life Coach from Memphis, TN. His dynamic, raw, and empowering seminars are captivating audiences and changing lives across the country. Lawrence authored a popular book series called SOUL TIES which includes: Soul Ties: How To Detox From Toxic Relationships and Soul Ties 2: Love, Lust, & Lies. Lawrence has been impacting lives each month with messages from the Soul Ties series in various cities and now announces new dates for his Fall 2019 SOUL TIES TOUR. California cleared the way on Monday for college athletes to profit from brand sponsorships and endorsement deals, as Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation making it the first U.S. state to give them that potentially lucrative opportunity. The legislation states that college athletes may profit from their “name, image or likeness.” It could set up a showdown between the most populous U.S. state and the National Collegiate Athletic Association, the influential governing body for intercollegiate athletics, over the NCAA’s longstanding rule that college athletes cannot be provided compensation. The measure is due to take effect in 2023. One of the “Dancing With the Stars” duos has been sidelined. As Monday’s show kicked off, host Tom Bergeron noted contestant Ray Lewis’ absence, saying “an old injury flared up that’s taken him out of the competition.” Later in the episode, the show cut to rehearsals between Lewis and his pro partner, Cheryl Burke. The two were practicing their cha-cha-cha tribute to “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” when Lewis cried out in pain. https://youtu.be/FllX6mTbT3s Selena Gomez is speaking out about her hiatus from the public spotlight and her mental health journey. Nearly one year ago, the singer went off the grid as she announced she would be taking a break from social media. A source later said she had checked herself into a facility for help with her mental health. “She realized she needed to seek additional help for her ongoing emotional issues,” the source said last October. Gomez has now opened up about what she called the “scariest” time of her life — and her decision to finally seek help — while receiving the 2019 McLean Award at the McLean Hospital’s annual dinner where she stated that she was glad for the platform that God Had given her. Motown Gospel and Capitol CMG have announced the signing of powerhouse vocalist Evvie McKinney to an exclusive recording agreement. The emerging performer and songwriter has also entered into an exclusive publishing agreement with Capitol CMG Publishing. Evvie McKinney rose to prominence as the winner of the inaugural season of the TV singing competition The Four: Battle for Stardom on FOX. The young singer with Southern charm wowed judges Sean “P. Diddy” Combs, DJ Khaled, and Meghan Trainor with her powerful voice and fearless stage presentation, packing a punch as she effortlessly covered iconic soul songs, like Aretha Franklin’s “I Never Loved A Man The Way I Love You” and Tina Turner’s “Proud Mary.” RCA Inspiration has appointed GRAMMY® Award-winning music and entertainment veteran Ron Hill as Vice President of Artist Development, reporting to Senior Vice President and General Manager Phil Thornton. Hill will oversee all A&R/Creative matters and the newly-launched Brand Partnership division for RCA Inspiration, Essential Sound, and Verity, encompassing the label’s breadth of new inspirational releases from Gospel to hip-hop, nurturing its diverse roster of new and veteran talent, and its award-winning catalog. Among new releases from RCA Inspiration are songs and albums from acclaimed hit makers Kirk Franklin (Fo Yo Soul/RCA), Travis Greene, Donnie McClurkin, Kierra Sheard, Koryn Hawthorne, and more. Two-time Grammy® Nominee and International Recording Artist Jonathan Butler has been appointed the first Global Celebrity Entertainment Ambassador for international arts education nonprofit, Lalela. In his new role, Jonathan’s work will help raise awareness, funds and additional support for the organization. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight!!! Hear Jonathan Butler In His Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/jonathan_butler_intvw.htm The U.S. Air Force has named its new trainer jet in honor of the Tuskegee Airmen, a squadron of America’s first Black pilots who flew combat missions during World War II. Announcement of the jet known as the Red Hawk and which was previously known previously as the T-X, was made this week by acting Air Force Secretary Matt Donovan, alongside retired Col. Charles McGee, who was a member of the Tuskegee Airmen. “The name, Red Hawk, honors the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, and pays homage to their signature red-tailed aircraft from World War II,” Donovan said Monday during the annual Air, Space and Cyber conference. “The name is also a tribute to the Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, an American fighter aircraft that first flew in 1938 and was flown by the 99th Fighter Squadron — the U.S. Army Air Forces’ first African-American fighter squadron.” She Married the Ring and Forgot the Man” is a live stage play, a concert and an interactive talk show rolled-up into one exciting rollercoaster of emotions presentation. Five influential men with five distinctive personalities and viewpoints discuss and debate their personal truths about sex, faith, love, commitment and money. The thought-provoking production features R&B recording artists Keke Wyatt, Q Parker from 112, and Angie Stone. Beloved actors Brad James , Jevon Dewan and Stevie Baggs Jr. also star in the show. It also features some of the biggest names in gospel music, ranging from Zacardi Cortez and Pastor Mike, Jr. to Damon Little and Pastor Mark Couch. THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW WELCOMES THIS WEEK: LARENZ TATE, RODNEY JERKINS, RALPH TRESVANT AND MORRIS DAY. He revealed a sneak peak of his movie and his entire album, both called Jesus Is King, at Detroit’s Fox Theater on Friday Night. And on Sunday, the director of Kanye West‘s new film, Nick Knight, took to Instagram to share the poster and the release date. He captioned it: ‘Poster announcing the release of Jesus is King, a Kanye West film of his joyous Sunday Service, that I directed and filmed with @brittlloyd. ‘The film will be released exclusively in IMAX cinemas worldwide on October 25th.’ The simple image, on a blue background, shows what appears to be a stylized arched hallway leading to a gold path and a round bright light. Friday’s theater crowd were treated to a scene from the movie of the Sunday Service choir performing Oh Lord, How Excellent, before Kanye played his album. Oprah Winfrey isn’t eyeing the oval office but does have a recommendation for someone who should: Walt Disney Co. CEO Bob Iger. In a preview for Super Soul Sunday, which will air on OWN and on Facebook Sunday, the mogul spoke with Iger about his new memoir Ride of a Lifetime as well as any thoughts he’s had for getting political. “The other day someone called me and asked me for a comment about you, because I’ve known Bob since we both were pups. I think it was the Wall Street Journal, and I said to the guy: ‘Look, I know you’re gonna ask me all these questions, but I only want to say one thing to you,'” Winfrey says to Iger in the preview clip. “If Bob Iger had decided to run for president, I would be canvassing in Iowa right now. I would be going door to door… I said I always pictured myself standing on somebody’s step in Brooklyn and them saying Oprah, what are you doing here? And I’d say Let me tell you about my friend Bob.” After jokingly telling Winfrey her comments make him anxious, the CEO was pressed to explain why he has not run yet. Wedding bells are ringing for actress Taraji P. Henson who confirmed she and her beau are tying the knot in the springtime! The 49-year-old fiancée revealed that she and Kelvin Hayden will say their vows before God and man on April 4, 2020 in California’s northern Bay Area, known as wine country. “We both went to the wine country and it was our first time together at the same time. He had never been. I had never been, and I did feel him fall in love.” The Christian star, best known as Cookie Lyon on Fox’s Empire, said she knew Hayden, who popped the big question in May 2018, was hers after their trip. “I was like, ‘Got him,’” she said, adding, “Ladies, if you want him to pop the question, take him to the wine country.” Tyler Perry said he cannot “just up and leave” filming in Georgia despite Hollywood’s backlash against the state’s “heartbeat” abortion law. The actor-director-writer made the remarks to The Associated Press on Friday while discussing the upcoming opening of his massive Atlanta-based studio. Some celebs have urged TV and film companies to abandon the state after Republican Gov. Brian Kemp signed the restrictive abortion bill in May. But Perry, whose hits include the “Madea” franchise and “Why Did I Get Married” films, said he is committed to staying put. “Atlanta has been the dream. It has been the promised land,” he said. “So when I got here, this whole state and city has been amazing to me and I wouldn’t trade that for anything. Also, I put $250 million in the ground here and in the studio. So when you have a quarter of a billion dollars sat down in the ground, you can’t just up and leave.” Perry is planning a star-studded unveiling of his new studio complex next weekend. Voice Your Inspiration contest winner Joseff McKenneth – “Trust” (Divine Mix) and “Trust” (Heavenly Mix) – available now on digital music providers. Joseff McKenneth was first declared the winner of the Voice Your Inspiration contest last year, which was presented in association with Chew Entertainment (helmed by renowned music industry powerhouses, music director/composer/producer Ray Chew and music producer/executive Vivian Scott Chew), and RCA Inspiration. "Trust" (Divine Mix) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViXox0_2C1I Reach Records presents a new music video for “California Dreamin” - 116 ft John Givez - produced by Zaytoven. An anthem for the west side, "California Dreamin'" is one of 14 tracks included on Reach Records’ Summer Nineteen, playlist featuring a collective of 37 artist and producers, many who have worked with or signed to Reach Records. The video directed by The Ajayis brings to life pages from Lecrae’s book, Unashamed, with visuals that depict memories of Cali summers in the 90’s. Reach Records presents a new music video for “California Dreamin” - 116 ft John Givez - produced by Zaytoven. An anthem for the west side, "California Dreamin'" is one of 14 tracks included on Reach Records’ Summer Nineteen, playlist featuring a collective of 37 artist and producers, many who have worked with or signed to Reach Records. The video directed by The Ajayis brings to life pages from Lecrae’s book, Unashamed, with visuals that depict memories of Cali summers in the 90’s. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBpjffxRHnM&feature=youtu.be Phil Thornton, Senior Vice President and General Manager of RCA Inspiration, has been named one of Billboard’s “40 Under 40” honorees for 2019. The prestigious list, which is included in Billboard magazine’s issue dated September 28th, is comprised of top music executives under the age of 40 who are demonstrating exemplary leadership in their respective fields and helping to redefine the industry. At RCA Inspiration, Thornton drives the day-to-day initiatives, manages business operations and establishes partnerships for the Nashville, TN based label. RCAI, the premiere label in gospel and urban inspirational music, is home to renowned superstar artists including Kirk Franklin, Travis Greene, Koryn Hawthorne, Israel Houghton, Le’Andria Johnson, Donald Lawrence, Donnie McClurkin, Marvin Sapp, and Kierra Sheard and will be releasing new albums from Greene and McClurkin later in 2019. International lifestyle TV Personality and Producer, Tai Beauchamp and celebrity photographer Elton Anderson take viewers to the world's biggest melting pot - Brooklyn, New York - on the next episode of CLEO TV's new travel series, LENS OF CULTURE. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqLCBfAlQjY&feature=youtu.be A biographical film on the historic mission of Harriet Tubman will hit theaters this fall and lead actress Cynthia Erivo says prayer helped her get through one of her most difficult scenes. Following a screening of the movie at the Urbanworld Film Festival held Sept. 18-22 in New York City, a Q&A was held with cast members including Erivo, director Kasi Lemmons, and producer Debra Martin Chase who lauded the Tony Award-winning actress’ performance. https://youtu.be/GqoEs4cG6Uw SISTER CIRCLE LIVE WELCOMES ACTOR CLIFTON POWELL, GOSPEL SINGERS PASTOR MARVIN WINANS, MICHAEL STAMPLEY AND MANY MORE SPECIAL GUESTS NEXT WEEK! Rapper Tip ‘T.I.’ Harris rang in his 39th birthday with a big bash in his hometown. T.I. and his wife Tameka ‘Tiny’ Harris packed on the PDA at his birthday soiree thrown at The Brasserie Atlanta on Wednesday in Atlanta, Georgia. The star’s party came days after he spoke out about feeling ‘exploited.’ The entrepreneur was intimating that he felt like the pastor was trying to take advantage of his deep pockets. ‘As soon as I sat down—mind you, I’m telling you they had already raised the offering,’ he continued. ‘[The pastor] had already raised the offering—when we sat down there was a whole new agenda… It’s like they rung the red bell at the Player’s Club… You ain’t [about to] run no game on me.’ Adding: ‘I will not be extorted.’ Kylie Jenner has been hospitalized with an undisclosed illness and will have to skip a planned cosmetics rollout at Paris Fashion Week. The 22-year-old social media star and makeup mogul said on Twitter Wednesday that she’s “really sick and unable to travel.”A representative for Jenner says she’s in the hospital but doing well. Neither gave details on what illness sent her to the hospital. On Tuesday, she had announced that a new collaboration between her makeup line, Kylie Cosmetics, and designer Olivier Rousteing of Balmain would be unveiled in Paris Friday. Jenner says she’s heartbroken but is excited to watch the event. Stellar and Dove Award Nominated artist G.I.is back! The lead single “SO GOOD Live” was released on September 20th. “SO GOOD Live” is laced with beautiful smooth harmonies that G.I. fans have grown to love over the years, intricate arranged live music and a power-packed message proclaiming that through it all, God has been “SO GOOD!” Group member Lamonte Harris says, “We believe this song resonates with people so much because regardless of what every believer has gone through, at the end of the day, we all can say that God has been SO GOOD to us!” Flash Back Gospel Spotlight!!! Hear G.I. In Their Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/GI.htm In an effort to help those students and families affected by Hurricane Dorian, Hampton University is entering into an agreement with the University of the Bahamas-North to allow students who have been displaced by the hurricane to continue their education on HU’s campus. “I think this agreement is something that can be helpful to a great number of students and families, and is part of something I’ve tried to do my entire career – helping people to achieve and meet their goals,” said Hampton University President, Dr. William R. Harvey. Students from the University of the Bahamas-North will be able to attend classes at Hampton for the fall 2019 semester, receive room and board for one semester, and will have the option to stay at Hampton once the semester is over at regular rates for tuition and fees. The creators of CBS’ new psychological drama “EVIL” say their aim is to give viewers a glimpse into the supernatural and explore unexplained occurrences through science and religion. “The series focuses on a skeptical female psychologist who joins a priest-in-training and a carpenter as they investigate the Catholic Church’s backlog of unexplained mysteries, including supposed miracles, demonic possessions and hauntings. Their job is to assess if there’s a logical explanation or if something truly supernatural is at work,” the synopsis reads. https://youtu.be/WFvo3fS4Zwc It was the promise of blessings for donations that rapper T.I. said triggered his now viral smirk, as guest preacher Bishop I.V. Hilliard pressed congregants to give sacrificially two Sundays ago at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. Speaking on his Apple Podcast “Expeditiously” with fellow rapper Killer Mike last Thursday, T.I. explained his facial expression, noting that Hilliard, pastor emeritus of New Light Christian Center Church in Houston, Texas, “had the nerve to say ‘c’mon y’all. Get your blessings heard.’” “Are you telling me, I have to give $1,000 for the good Lord almighty to hear my blessings? … that’s probably when I made the face, as he says ‘get your blessings heard,’” said T.I., whose real name is Clifford Joseph Harris Jr. “This is extortion. At this point you’re telling these people they will not be blessed unless they give their money to you. And this is the problem I have with black churches. That was why I had that face.” The problem is “with all church,” Killer Mike interjected. From Grammy-winning gospel singer, television star, and radio host Erica Campbell comes MORE THAN PRETTY: Doing the Soul Work that Uncovers Your True Beauty An inspiring and candid book demonstrating that true beauty is found not in external appearances, but in celebrating the person God made you to be. Flash Back Erica Campbell!!! Hear Erica Campbell In Her Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/marymary_intvw.htm Multi Grammy Award-Winning Singer/Songwriter Q Parker launches a new production company, Q Parker Productions, which will focus on creating a series of faith-based content that bridges the gap between mainstream and gospel. As part of the launch, Q Parker Productions has signed an exclusive production deal with Manns-Mackie Studios to develop and produce film titles for global release. Parker attained mega success with his group 112 and now is shifting gears to focus on creating faith-based stories that are committed to attaching diverse and underrepresented talents to star and bring these titles to life. The first feature film titled “Rescue Me” a story of success, tragedy and redemption is currently in pre-production with an anticipated theatrical release in summer 2020. Sad Unfortunate Breaking News: the Owner of the Word Network, Kevin Adell, Who Happens to Be White, Retweeted this Picture. George Bloomer Says He Told Him Several Times That This Isn’t Good and Not to Do It Again but He Did It Again. George Bloomer Says He Quit, Others Say He Was Fired or Pushed Out. George Bloomer Says he was not fired or pushed out nor did he steal any money. George Bloomer says he quit. Two of the people in the picture are Creflo Dollar and Kirk Franklin. At the time of this writing, the other man has not been identified. Bloomer also said that Adell referred to him as “Tattoo”, the little man assistant from Fantasy Island. Alarmed by violence depicted in a trailer for the upcoming movie “Joker,” some relatives of victims of the 2012 Aurora movie theater shooting asked distributor Warner Bros. on Tuesday to commit to gun control causes. Sandy Phillips’ daughter, Jessica Ghawi, was one of 12 people killed in the suburban Denver theater during a midnight showing of the Batman film, “The Dark Knight Rises,” also distributed by Warner Bros. Phillips said she and four other people who lost loved ones in Aurora sent a letter to Warner on Tuesday, asking the studio to lobby Congress for gun control, support survivor programs and end any contributions to politicians backed by the National Rifle Association. Warner issued a statement later Tuesday saying it has always supported victims of gun violence and calling on policymakers to enact bipartisan legislation to address what it called an epidemic. Antonio Brown, one day after tweeting that he “will not be playing in the NFL anymore,” has announced on social media that he has re-enrolled at Central Michigan University. Brown on Monday posted on his Instagram account a picture of a list of four classes with the message: “Back to school @cmuathletics.” The post shows a list of four classes that are offered online, including: Introduction to Management, Technical Writing, Death and Dying (a religion course) and Racism and Equality (a sociology course). ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler has confirmed that Brown enrolled in the four classes on Sept. 16, four days before he was released by the New England Patriots. Andre Emmett, a star at Texas Tech under Bob Knight in the early 2000s and a standout in Ice Cube’s Big3 this season, died on Sunday at age 37. Dallas police issued a statement saying that Emmett was confronted by two men while sitting in his car in front of his house in Dallas. One of the men displayed a handgun, an altercation ensued and Emmett fled, but he was shot. According to police, a passerby found Emmett near his house and called 911. Emmett died at the hospital. Witnesses saw two men get into a white Chrysler and flee the scene. The New York Giants will be without star running back Saquon Barkley for the next several games. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that Barkley is expected to be out four to six weeks because of a high ankle sprain, per a source informed of the situation. Giants coach Pat Shurmur later confirmed the injury but did not offer a timeline for a return. The news isn’t a surprise in the least after Barkley was in a walking boot and crutches following the Giants‘ dramatic 32-31 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday. The Brooklyn Nets expect to wait a year before Kevin Durant plays for them. General manager Sean Marks said Tuesday the Nets are planning this season without the injured All-Star. He added Durant will have a say in determining when he’s ready. “With Kevin, I think what we’re going to say is the expectations are that he’ll be out for the year,” Marks said. Durant is recovering from surgery to repair a ruptured Achilles tendon. He was injured while playing for Golden State in the NBA Finals, then left the Warriors to sign with the Nets in July. Durant is expected to speak Friday when the Nets hold their media day. GRAMMY-nominated gospel music pioneer and living legend John P. Kee’s latest full-length release, I Made It Out. Kee’s new album I Made It Out debuts at #1 on the Top Gospel Chart and #1 on the Current Gospel Albums Chart. Winning many accolades including a Billboard Music Award, a Soul Train Award and numerous Stellar Awards, Kee’s songwriting and vocals have been hailed by critics throughout his career – often by mainstream artists across various genres of music. He is currently enjoying the success of his current single and album title track, “I Made It Out (feat. Zacardi Cortez).” In 2005, Kee was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. Currently, the Charlotte, NC native serves as the Senior Pastor of New Life Fellowship Center. The searing TV series on the plight of the Central Park Five created a memorable Emmy moment Sunday when the five exonerated men stood and were honored at the awards show. The four-part Netflix series explores the true story of five black and Latino teenagers from Harlem who were coerced into confessing to a rape they didn’t commit in 1989 and follows them over the course of 25 years to their eventual exoneration. Show creator Ava DuVernay lost in the directing and writing categories but Jharrel Jerome won for best lead actor in a limited series. “I feel like I should just be in the Bronx right now, just chilling, waiting for my mom’s cooking. But I am here in front of my inspirations,” said Jerome, a New Yorker whose mother told him about this ugly chapter in city history. He then acknowledged the Central Park Five — Yusef Salaam, Antron McCray, Kevin Richardson, Raymond Santana, and Korey Wise — who had been invited. Meet Irene Ubom, she is one of the hottest contemporary praise leaders in the UK. On October 18, 2019 Irene Ubom releases "Glorify." She's inside of the Gospel Spotlight. Hear Irene Ubom In Her Own Words......http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/ireneubom_intvw.htm THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW WELCOMES TITO JACKSON, COMEDIAN DEON COLE, RAPPER JEEZY AND MORE AT 11 P.M ET/10C! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QC0_JoKio-g&feature=youtu.be An estimate of more than 10,000 people filled the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in the nation’s capital during the just completed five-day Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) Annual Legislative Conference (ALC). This year’s ALC theme, “400 Years: Our Legacy, Our Possibilities …” observed 400 years of the first enslaved African to land in Jamestown, Virginia. “Our Annual Legislative Conference is a gathering to develop solutions to the challenges facing black communities around the world through issues forums, brain trusts, a town hall meeting, networking sessions, and more,” said Congressional Black Caucus Chair Karen Bass (D-Calif.). This year’s conference included town halls on black men and boys and a Sojourner Truth Town Hall titled, “Bridging Pathways for Black Women in Leadership and Politics.” “The contributions of Black women in shaping and changing the world for the better are often minimized. At every moment in history, black women have worked alongside their more famous male counterparts to advance political movements,” Bass said. Fantasia Barrino is a R&B singer, but she has not forgotten about her gospel roots and is vocal about her serious relationship with Jesus Christ—something that influences her career and marriage. The GRAMMY® Award-winning vocalist stopped by Power 105.1 in New York City for a candid chat about how she learned to submit to her husband and why prayer is so important to her. The prayer conversation began with the 35-year-old North Carolina native asking “The Breakfast Club” co-host DJ Envy if he ever prayed with his wife. When the popular syndicated radio personality said he did each morning before leaving home, Barrino stood up and saluted. Barrino, who wed her spouse Kendall Taylor in 2015, just 3 weeks after meeting him in Charlotte, NC, said, “My husband’s a felon, but he turned it all around and he owns his own business. And so, I wasn’t used to that. I was a pop-off—quick with the mouth, smart. But it took a man like him to sit me down, look me in my eyes and talk to me like I was supposed to be talked to, and say, ‘I’m here now. You don’t have to do all of that. Pass it over to me and let me take care of it.’” The happy wife, who tied the knot at a North Carolina courthouse away from public view, said Taylor asked for a pre-nuptial agreement so she would know he was not after her money, but just wanted her. She said the two also waited until marriage for sex. Antonio Brown says he is finished with the NFL. In a Twitter rant on the morning his most recent team was getting ready to play without him, the former New England Patriots receiver says, “Will not be playing in the NFL anymore.” He went on to take shots at other people in football who have been accused of sexual misconduct. Included among them: Patriots owner Robert Kraft, who was arrested in connection with a prostitution and sexual trafficking sting in a Florida massage parlor. He has not been punished. “Different strokes different folks clearly,” Brown wrote. Another target was longtime Steelers teammate Ben Roethlisberger, who was suspended for four games after he was twice accused of sexual assault. “4 games for Big Ben crazy world I’m done with it,” Brown tweeted over a screenshot of a news article about the investigation. Several of the tweets had been deleted by the time the Patriots kicked off against the New York Jets a couple of hours later. “Just For Me,” the latest single from fourteen-time GRAMMY®-winning artist/songwriter/producer Kirk Franklin, is hitting the airwaves at Gospel radio. Marking his second radio single – following his smash #1 single “Love Theory” – “Just For Me” is already another hit favorite among fans from his chart-topping thirteenth studio album LONG LIVE LOVE. Upon the release of his new music video and the song’s pre-album digital release, “Just For Me” quickly racked up multiple honors on the charts, where it simultaneously hit within the Top 10 on Gospel Digital Song Sales, Hot Gospel Songs, and Gospel Streaming Songs charts. The music video for “Just For Me,” capturing Franklin’s live performance in the studio with his band and vocalists, continues to rise with 1.8 million views and counting. Catch Franklin’s next live appearance on the 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards, where he’s nominated in five categories and will perform, airing on TBN on Sunday, October 20th. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TD3zS_GxS3M Urban One Founder and Chairperson Cathy Hughes was honored with the Mickey Leland Humanitarian Achievement Award at the 2019 National Association of Multi-ethnicity in Communications (NAMIC) Awards Luncheon on September 18 at the Marriott Marquis in New York City. Hughes received the esteemed award for her outstanding contributions as a media pioneer and champion of diversity. Held as part of the cable communications industry's Diversity Week, the 33rd Annual NAMIC Conference - in conjunction with the Women in Cable Television Leadership (WICT) Conference - was held on September 16-18 and immersed attendees in sessions, workshops on content and professional development. The Impact Network, the only African American owned and operated Christian television network in the United States, is now available on Verizon Fios, channel 787 in High Definition (HD) and channel 287 in Standard Definition (SD). The network features programming on urban ministries and gospel lifestyle entertainment. The Impact Network’s mission is to provide exceptional Christian, educational programming and gospel lifestyle entertainment. It empowers the spiritual, physical, financial and emotional needs of the community and viewers. The network line-up includes television ministries by Impact CEO & President Bishop Wayne T. Jackson, Bishop TD Jakes, Dr. Creflo Dollar, Pastor Rod Parsley, Bishop IV Hilliard, Bishop Charles Blake, Bishop Paul Morton, and Dr. Juanita Bynum just to name a few. The Impact Network also offers original programming like, The National Action Network “Live” with the Rev. Al Sharpton, The Rainbow Push Coalition “Live” with Rev. Jesse Jackson, Dr. Beverly Jackson’s “Living Free,” “The Jewel Tankard Show,” legendary gospel icon Dr. Bobby Jones, Higher Impact with Dr. Teresa Hairston, Gospel concerts featuring some of today hottest gospel artists, and even, clean Christian comedy specials, something the whole family can watch and enjoy together. NBA legend Charles Barkley took another shot at Democrats on Friday, arguing the party that enjoys overwhelming support from African Americans largely takes their votes for granted. The 56-year-old Alabama native and ‘Inside the NBA’ analyst recalled campaigning on behalf of Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Doug Jones in 2017 during a Friday interview with CNN host Michael Smerconish. Jones went on to become the conservative state’s first Democrat to be elected to the Senate in 25 years. Three-time GRAMMY® nominated chart topper Travis Greene continues to bring listeners together and create an elevating experience of love and blessing with the release of his new song “Great Jehovah.” Available now instantly with pre-order of his upcoming album Broken Record, Greene has also released a new video for “Great Jehovah.” The newest song from his upcoming eleven-track album, the buoyant, high-energy track follows on the heels of the single “Good & Loved” (feat. Steffany Gretzinger) and lead single “Won’t Let Go.” His two latest songs have quickly garnered acclaim among fans and peers everywhere, showcasing the gifts of performance, engaging culture, and song craft that have made him one of the most refreshing hit artists, songwriters and producers of this generation. Celebrating the fastest rise for his new video in a week with over 1 million views of “Good & Loved,” his live performance with Gretzinger and the official video for “Won’t Let Go” collectively have over 2.3 million views and counting. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z9rItpPx534 SISTER CIRCLE LIVE WELCOMES ACTOR JOSEPH SIKORA, JAMAL WOOLARD, JOE TORRY AND "THE PRINCE OF PRAISE" BYRON CAGE, PLUS MANY MORE SPECIAL GUESTS NEXT WEEK! RCA Inspiration launches the first new collection of music from Melvin Crispell, III – who won Season 9 of BET’s “Sunday Best” this year – with the release of the EP album Prologue III. Following his win and receiving a recording contract with RCA Inspiration, Melvin Crispell, III’s Prologue III is now available, featuring the lead single “Not the End of Your Story,” as well as three newly-recorded songs “Without You,” “My Favorite Gift” featuring his fellow “Sunday Best” finalist Joshua Copeland, and “He Can.” “Without You” is also being released to Gospel radio as his latest single. https://pec.smcdp-aws.net/welcome?key=01C84E1D-53EF-7446-9948-92E3A5D03A0C Gospel Heritage Foundation announces the LEAP Summit February 26th - 29th in Columbia, SC. This year's lineup includes Bishop Noel Jones, Evangelist Latrice Ryan, Jekalyn Carr, Tonya Baker, Myron Butler, and more.... GRAMMY-nominated and Dove Award winning worship leader, pastor and author, William McDowell, has released his new live album, The Cry (Integrity Music). The album was recorded at Redemption to the Nations Church in Chattanooga, TN and features special guest artists Nathaniel Bassey, Travis Greene, Yolanda Adams, David & Nicole Binion, Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Trinity Anderson. For 20 years, McDowell has been writing songs crying out for God to bring revival. However, his latest release is not a collection of songs crying out for God to come; rather it's a collection of songs written as a response to a God who already has. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1d3XdmarOUM&feature=youtu.be Andrea Rene Williams will sing the National Anthem October 9, 2019 at the Washington Wizards Vs Guangzhou Long-Lions at the Capital One Area, in Washington, DC. Today, emerging rapper and producer, J. Monty releases his highly anticipated new single “100 Bars Pt. 4” accompanied by a music video. Written by Monty and produced by Vikaden for NARCOTICS Music Group, “100 Bars Pt. 4” hails four years since the rapper’s 6-minute viral track “100 Bars, Pt. 3”, which was a career highlight for Monty showcasing his powerful songwriting skills and versatility of his flow, giving him the motivation to continue making faith-based music. “100 Bars Pt. 4” marks the fifth single released by the Atlanta based artist and highlights Monty’s master storytelling and heartfelt authenticity. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2RC2aOiA9bQ PJ MORTON presents "ALL IN HIS PLAN" featuring Le'Andria Johnson and Mary Mary. ?“All In His Plan” is a powerful ballad that pairs the creative musical mind of Grammy® Award winning recording artist and producer, PJ Morton with the soulful vocals of Le’Andria Johnson and platinum selling sister act Mary Mary. It's the first release from PJ's forthcoming and highly-anticipated inspirational songbook, "The Gospel According To PJ." EXPERIENCE TODD DULANEY LIVE IN CHICAGO ?ON SEPTEMBER 27 AT ALL NATIONS WORSHIP ASSEMBLY. The Night of Worship Will Feature Todd Dulaney, Pastor David Wilford, Pastor Smokie Norful & Kierra Sheard. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Just because relationships fall apart doesn’t mean they can’t come back together when the time is right. Real Housewives Of Potomac star Gizelle Bryant and her ex-husband Jamal H. Bryant are now dating again, and Gizelle is opening up about what it took to forgive him for cheating during their marriage. The former couple were husband and wife from 2002 to 2009 and divorced once Gizelle discovered Jamal was having an affair. The couple remained amicable while co-parenting their three daughters. During the season 4 reunion of RHOP, Bryant revealed that she and Jamal are in fact dating again. “I am enjoying the pursuit and I am open,” she told host Andy Cohen. “There’s nobody who knows me like that man.” The Church of God in Christ (COGIC) award-winning e-magazine, The Whole Truth (TWT) reveals the names of its 40 Under 40 Award recipients. The Whole Truth magazine is excited to award and recognize 40 young, dynamic leaders who are praying, praising, learning, volunteering, texting and tweeting their way to success in business, church and community. The winners of the 2019 TWT 40 Under 40 Award are: The winners of the 2019 TWT 40 Under 40 Award are: 1. Sarah Anthony Lansing, Michigan 2. Krystal Bracy Durham, North Carolina 3. Karen Burks Metairie, Louisiana 4. Korie Christian-Moreland Rochester, Pennsylvania 5. Kalynn Clinton St. Louis, Missouri 6. Keren Clinton St. Louis, Missouri 7. Tequila Dorris Joliet, Illinois 8. Otis Dupree Bowie, Maryland 9. Jason Erby Richardson, Texas 10. Timothy Fair Auburn, Alabama 11. Steven Fluker Hill Lithonia, Georgia 12. Sidney Frye II Rochester, Minnesota 13. Katrina Garrett Alexandria, Virginia 14. Noah Gordon Arlington, Tennessee 15. Christian Green Claremont, California Dove and Grammy award-winning Christian artist Lauren Daigle has released details on her first-ever headline arena world tour. Daigle will perform for 44 days from Australia to LA, starting on January 18. The 28-year-old star hopes the tour brings hope and healing. “I love putting out a vibe where people are free to respond however they feel and where people feel like a warm welcome, where they can have a good laugh and let go of some of the things they have been holding on to through the stress of family or work or whatever,” she told PEOPLE. “It’s going to be lively and fun and cheerful as well as emotionally connected.” The tour will include some of her newest songs off of her award-winning album “Look Up, Child.” Singer, songwriter, arranger and master composer Adrian Dunn makes magic happen all over again on October 4th as he presents the critically acclaimed Adrian Dunn Singers in a Live Recording on Friday, October 4th in Chicago, Illinois. The Adrian Dunn Singers will be joined by the Rise Orchestra as well as the inimitable and unapologetically Gospel song stylings of Pastor DeAndre Patterson and the Destiny Worship Center Chorale, Nathaniel Gumbs and Patrick Dailey. On September 13th, GRAMMY® nominated and Stellar Award-winning artist, Kierra Sheard, hosted a live recording for her forthcoming self-titled album, Kierra. The recording took place in Kierra’s hometown of Detroit, MI., at her father Bishop J. Drew Sheard's church, Greater Emmanuel Institutional COGIC. The star-studded event featured performances by Le’Andria Johnson, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, and Todd Dulaney. Kierra is slated for release in 2020 and will feature the songstress’ new single “Don’t Judge Me” with hip-hop icon, Missy Elliot. In addition to the live recording and her new single, Kierra performed with Chance The Rapper on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on September 17th. They performed Chance’s single, “I Got You (Always and Forever),” which Kierra co-wrote and is featured on, from his latest album, The Big Day. On top of music, Kierra will portray her mother, the legendary gospel singer, Karen Clark Sheard, in the upcoming Lifetime biopic, The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel (January 2020), and she continues to head up her successful fashion line for curvy women, Eleven60. https://youtu.be/Hs_e65NSCmo DARIUS PAULK DROPS "STRONG NAME" https://www.dropbox.com/sh/9zmi7njv3j0lcmn/AAD6vUQisFgPgNCDN2kfDW1ya? Billing New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Stonecrest, Georgia, as the “largest land-owning church in America,” pastor Jamal Bryant announced plans Sunday to build affordable housing for seniors as well as a medical facility on the church’s campus that will serve the uninsured and underinsured. Citing the rapid growth of the older adult population in the U.S., Bryant explained that he believes God has called his church to invest in the welfare of seniors and other vulnerable populations. https://www.facebook.com/jamalbryant/videos/513242392824741/ International lifestyle TV Personality and Producer, Tai Beauchamp and celebrity photographer Elton Anderson are teaming up to give viewers a sexy, cultural travel guide packed with adventure on CLEO TV's new series, LENS OF CULTURE. Premiering Saturday, September 21, at 12p.m. ET/11C, audiences will follow the hosts around the world as they tackle new destinations and make new discoveries. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BrHnz0QXEP4 An unlikely kicker for the Chicago Bears is making headlines and thanking God for his success. Sunday night, 24-year-old Eddy Piñeiro kicked a 53-yard field goal to give the Bears a win. The Chicago team suffered a rough blow last season after being knocked out of the playoffs with a missed field goal. The ball ricocheted off of the left upright and bounced off the crossbar, earning the nickname ‘double doink.’ In his first post-game interview with Fox Sports, Piñeiro said, “For everybody listening, man, if you don’t believe in Jesus Christ, you better start, because he’s real. I promise you that.” Inactive for the first two games, Dallas Cowboys defensive end Taco Charlton took to social media Monday with a plea to the team: Free me. After tweeting that message, the post was deleted, but he did follow up with this Tweet "Trust me the last thing I want to do is to have to go to social media to get what I want so I can play football again." The Cowboys have had trade discussions for Charlton, a first-round pick in 2017, but nothing that has gotten close to fruition, according to a source. Charlton is guaranteed his $1.376 million base salary this season and $458,000 of his base salary next season. Cowboys coach Jason Garrett, asked Monday about Charlton’s current role on the team, said the linebacker is “just competing for a spot to get a jersey each week, like a lot of guys on our team. Anthony Brown & Group TherAPy have reached number one on the Gospel Airplay Chart with viral single, “Blessings on Blessings,” on the anniversary week of Anthony’s single, “Worth,” reaching number one on the same chart on September 19, 2015. Blessings on Blessings is nominated for a GMA Dove Award for Contemporary Gospel/Urban Recorded Song of the Year and the viral official music video has already attracted over 1.4 million views. Anthony Brown and Group TherAPy will kick of their 2econd Wind Live tour at the Bronze Peacock at the Houston House of Blues in Texas Sunday, October 6, 2019. Flack Back Gospel Spotlight! Hear Anthony Brown In His Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/anthonybrown_intvw.htm TV One, in partnership with Alabama Power, hosted two events during the 2019 Congressional Black Caucus Week, which was held in Washington, D.C., on September 12-13, 2019. Thursday, September 12, TV One and Alabama Power kicked off the CBC Conference with an evening of entertainment and networking. The event was held at the historic Andrew Mellon Auditorium. Highlights of the evening included a welcome by Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-Alabama) to Congressman John Lewis (D-Georgia) and performances from Big Boi and Doug E. Fresh. Friday, September, 13, a private CBC Power Brunch held at RPM Italian. The Power Brunch honored Iva B. Williams Jr., with the 2019 Breaking Barriers Legacy Award and The Trailblazer Award presented to Mr. Williams by Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin and Vice President of Alabama Power's Eastern Division Tony Smoke. John Legend has teamed with Plus Products, the company behind the best-selling THC edibles in California, for the brand’s nationwide launch of its 100% hemp CBD product line. As an investor, Legend has been tapped to advocate on behalf of the company’s new edible gummies, which comes in three distinct flavors: BALANCE in Blueberry flavor, UPLIFT in Grapefruit flavor, and SLEEP in Blackberry Tea flavor. “I have been a believer in the benefits of CBD for some time,” stated Legend. “I was drawn to the PLUS team because they’re an innovative, family-run company, and they use science to deliver a consistent, high-quality product. I appreciate that they’re committed to setting a high standard within an industry that has to date been fairly unregulated.” Montia Sabbag, the woman who was videotaped with Kevin Hart in a sexually suggestive video in 2017, is suing the comedian for $60 million in damages. Sabbag believes Hart conspired with his friend Jonathan Todd “JT” Jackson (who was later charged with extortion) to secretly film the encounter. The sexual liaison went down in a Las Vegas hotel room in September 2017. Sabbag believes Hart and Jackson hid a camera because the “Jumanji” star wanted to film the encounter and then leak it to increase his public persona and “promote [Hart’s] Irresponsible Tour.” She is suing for negligence, negligent infliction of emotional distress, and invasion of privacy. Sabbag is also demanding a trial by jury. He preached in living rooms, in the woods and in a cotton gin. When he returned from the Azusa Street Revival speaking in unknown tongues, Bishop Charles Harrison Mason was followed by just 10 churches out of more than 100 in the split over the theological disagreement. Today, the denomination founded by Mason, the son of former slaves, is the largest Pentecostal denomination in the United States, with more than 6.5 million members. On Monday, the Church of God in Christ, which is headquartered in Memphis, celebrated its founder, looking back on the life of a man born in West Tennessee in 1864, not far from Memphis, baptized as a teenager into the Missionary Baptist Church and who decided to pursue ministry after surviving a childhood illness. Ex-NFL player Terrell Roberts, a Berkeley native who once played two seasons as a defensive back for the Cincinnati Bengals, was visiting his grandmother’s East Bay home this past week when a suspect barged into the home, and shot Roberts in the chest, leaving him fatally wounded. RPD (Richmond Police Department) officers responded to the scene where they promptly found Roberts listless in the backyard of his grandmother’s home…”with a gunshot wound to the chest.” The 38-year-old was pronounced dead on the scene. New York Yankees pitching legend Mariano Rivera said Monday at the White House that learning to speak English was the most important step he took as a young baseball player toward becoming an American. Rivera, newly inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Donald Trump, who cited the aggressive but well-loved relief hurler for his bat-shredding cut fastball and his legendary humanitarian streak. Trump praised him as the only Major League player ever elected to the Hall of Fame with unanimous support. Fresh off the heels of their top 30 radio hit, “Win,” Miami’s own, SENSERE, is back with one of their most infectious, feel good, singles of their career, called “Dance.” Produced by SENSERE’S founder and lead Drummer, James Wright III, “Dance,” is an undeniable bop that combines SENSERE’S signature live sound with a fresh, cool vibe, that continues to set them apart from the ever-growing crop of new artists. Pastor Marvin L. Winans and the Perfecting Church Choir shined brightly as musical guests at the recent Democratic Presidential Debates held at the Fox Theater in Detroit, Michigan. Winans created special arrangements of, “America the Beautiful” and the “National Anthem” that was performed and aired live on CNN’s domestic and international platforms. White House correspondent April Ryan tweeted, “What an incredible rendition of “America the Beautiful,” it mixed both the classical choral styles with the soul of the Black church experience. Bravo!” Pastor Winans has now turned his attention to the Perfecting Church 30 Year Celebration and Gala on Friday, October 11. The black-tie affair is being held at the historic Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan. The gathering is open to the public and Winans welcomes the residents of Detroit to join the celebration. A new faith-based studio known as Kingdom is launching its own television division that will be run by Mona Garcea, a former producer of the series “The Big Bang Theory.” Garcea, who was also a producer on the shows “Two and a Half Men” and “Mike & Molly,” was hired by Kingdom as head of television, Deadline reports. The studio, which was launched last year by brothers Jon and Andrew Erwin, Kevin Downes and Tony Young, specializes in faith-based and inspirational entertainment. The filmmakers are the team behind the blockbuster hit movie, “I Can Only Imagine.” Sony Michel of the New England Patriots as a rookie, after suffering a knee injury in training camp which caused him to miss the entire preseason and season opener, he made his debut in Week 2 and eventually helped the Patriots win the AFC East and earn the No. 2 seed for the AFC Playoffs. During the AFC Championship against the Kansas City Chiefs, he had 29 carries for 113 rushing yards and two touchdowns in the 37–31 overtime victory. He broke the record for most playoff rushing touchdowns for a rookie. During Super Bowl LIII against the Los Angeles Rams, he scored the lone touchdown late in the fourth quarter that gave the Patriots a 13-3 victory. Before Super Bowl LIII, he spoke about his strong faith in God, which was passed down to him from his parents who emigrated from Haiti. He said: “Without Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, there is none of this. We get all this glory, but the glory is not for us, it’s for Him. We do this for Him. That’s kind of my purpose. So really, none of this matters to me.” Just a day before the bustling streets of downtown D.C. becomes a hub and homecoming for Black politicians, businessmen and go-getters, The Delegate rooftop restaurant was filled with African American professionals excited to party with a purpose, prior to the official kickoff of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) Annual Legislative Conference 2019. One of the Black politicians who made his way to The Delegate was civil rights hero, Congressman John Lewis (D-GA). Blu Tuesday, an event that happens every other month at posh spots in the D.C. area, is a networking opportunity for Black professionals to mingle after five, while building their brands and expanding their contacts. September’s Blu Tuesday was the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) edition, Rep. Lewis served as the evening’s honored guest and speaker. THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW WELCOMES FORMER TONIGHT SHOW HOST JAY LENO, AMERICA COURT'S JUDGE KEVIN ROSS AND MORE AT 11 P.M ET/10C! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7X86eMvkOYM President Donald Trump never turns down his level of petty, so he was back on the attack over the weekend — firing shots at “AM Joy” host Joy-Ann Reid Saturday morning ahead of her MSNBC show, asking, “Who the hell is Joy-Ann Reid?” An hour before Reid’s show began, Trump tweeted, “Who the hell is Joy-Ann Reid? Never met her, she knows ZERO about me, has NO talent, and truly doesn’t have the ‘it’ factor needed for success in showbiz. Had a bad reputation, and now works for the Comcast/NBC losers making up phony stories about me. Low Ratings. Fake News!” Reid is a long-standing critic of Trump, and the author of the New York Times best seller “The Man Who Sold America: Trump and the Unraveling of the American Story.” Joy-Ann Reid’ Responds To Trump's Attacks By Listing All The Impeachable Offenses He Has Committed. Houston native and new artist Marcus Jordan makes his career first appearance on the Nielsen BDS Internet Panel Charts top ten. Leaping from #196 to #4 with his amazing radio single “Give God the Glory”. To date, “Give God the Glory” has climbed not only the Nielsen BDS Internet Panel Charts, but also the Nielsen BDS Gospel Airplay charts at #64 with his highest being #61. Jordan recently won three VOGMA Awards for Traditional Single of the Year, Traditional Album of the Year, and Record Label of the Year. This win was very big for Marcus who is a Recording Artist, Law Enforcement Officer, and Pastor. Reality star Kim Kardashian West was a guest on “The View” Thursday where she spoke about her husband’s religious beliefs and revealed that he sometimes hosts pop-up churches around the country through his music ministry, Sunday Service. https://youtu.be/2orVaJWto0M Grammy Award-winning artist Chance the Rapper, whose real name is Chancelor Jonathan Bennett, was a guest on NBC’s “Ellen DeGeneres Show” where he declared that Jesus has inspired him to be a more generous person. The famous emcee from Chicago has been on the promotional circuit giving radio and TV interviews and during Wednesday’s episode of “Ellen,” DeGeneres asked why it’s important for him to give back to the community. “My understanding of a lot of stuff is based on Jesus,” he said. Aside from his music, Chance is known for his philanthropy in the Chicago Public Schools system. In 2015, the rapper and some of his peers helped raise $100,000 for Chicago schools through the Get Schooled Program. Last summer, he wrote a $1 million check to his city’s Public School Foundation to help support the arts in the school system. SISTER CIRCLE LIVE CELEBRATES THE SHOW'S THREE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY ALL NEXT WEEK WITH SPECIAL GUESTS TITO JACKSON, KIERRA SHEARD, BEBE WINANS, RICKY SMILEY, KIRK WHALUM AND MORE! https://www.instagram.com/p/B2M8JEmBwJS/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link Gifted artist, JASON MCGEE & THE CHOIR release new song “Never Let Me Go” available digitally today. The fashionable and always creative JASON MCGEE & THE CHOIR continue to release innovative and dynamic songs that are perfectly suited for Sunday mornings, while furthering the modern Choir sound. https://music.apple.com/us/album/never-let-me-go-single/1478592074?ls=1&app=itunes As culture is changing and technology advancing, ministry is no longer confined by the doors of the church. For those interested in learning more about how faith relates to everyday life to those who sense a call to innovative ministries—from community leaders to entrepreneurs— Jakes Divinity School is providing theological training for anyone desiring to live out a Christian worldview through all facets of society. The Jakes Divinity School is kicking off its inaugural semester and those interested are encouraged to apply quickly to join the next cohort. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5WwgN4S-hoQ&feature=youtu.be Justin Francis and Sun Wise Media’s Ri-Karlo Handy have re-teamed to present the 4th annual Gospel Radio Awards television taping going down Monday, March 9, 2020 at Heartland, in Rockford, IL. This year’s program will honor platinum-selling sister act and television personalities, Mary Mary; and the pioneering producer and recording artist, Tye Tribbett. Mary Mary will take home the Icon Award. Tye Tribbett will receive the Industry Impact Award. This evening will also boast dynamic performances or appearances by Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Kierra Sheard, Karen Clark Sheard, Travis Greene, Kelontae Gavin, The Walls Group, Virtue, Koryn Hawthorne, Latice Crawford and other surprise guests. Singer-Actress, Michelle Williams and Todd Dulaney, will host the show. Gospels hottest recording act, Anthony Brown and group therAPy's upcoming album, "2econd Wind: Ready," is available for presale today. The album presale purchase instantly provide "He Always Wins" featuring Multi-Grammy award winning gospel star Erica Campbell and inspirational hip-hop artist Ik Phew. Anthony Brown and group therAPy makes a strong return with "2econd Wind: Ready," a collaboration with long time production partner award winning producer-songwriter Justin Savage and powered by the viral success of the album's debut single, ";Blessings on Blessings" which earned a 2019 GMA Dove Awards nomination for Contemporary Gospel/Urban Recorded Song of the Year. "2econd Wind" is not just a body of music to me. It's a declaration. It is the hope and belief that God can and will breathe new life into something you once thought was over, said Anthony Brown. This is the soundtrack to your revival. https://smarturl.it/2econdWindReady Months before the annual observance of the bombing that rocked a congregation, a community and the nation, Sixteenth Street Baptist Church has been getting ready. Renovations were taking place in June: fresh paint and new technology for the classroom spaces in the basement. Just as at worship services, Sunday school attendance ebbs and flows each week, depending on the number of longtime members and curious tourists. This Sunday (Sept. 15), which marks the 56th anniversary of the attack that killed four young girls, the church hopes to unveil the refurbished space where visitors can watch videos about kindness, caring for all humans no matter their race, and the civil rights history of the church and its community. Just before the church bells are set to toll at 10:22 a.m. — the moment on Sept. 15, 1963, that the dynamite set by members of the Ku Klux Klan went off — former Vice President Joe Biden “will give a reflection about the day,” the pastor said. After a wreath laying, the Sunday service will start, with the Rev. Eric S.C. Manning, pastor of Mother Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church of Charleston, South Carolina, serving as the guest preacher. The chairman of the Atlanta Housing Authority board on Tuesday thanked members of the public who reached out to him following the killing of his son and daughter last month. It was the first time Christopher Edwards has publicly commented on the events of Aug. 21, when investigators say his ex-wife shot their two children, 24-year-old-year-old Christopher Jr. and 20-year-old Erin, before turning the gun on herself. A longtime fixture in the Atlanta medical community, Edwards serves on the board of trustees of the Morehouse School of Medicine and was formerly on the board of Grady Memorial Hospital. He told those gathered for the meeting that not only does he need to heal, but so does the city. Duke Divinity School will launch a five-year multidisciplinary collaboration that will bring scholars and pastoral leaders together to identify and develop models for strengthening leadership in the black church and beyond, school officials announced Tuesday. The Duke Divinity: Black Pastoral Leadership Collaboration will draw on original research in black church traditions and historical examples of effective black church leadership to train and build networks of effective leaders for the black church of today and the future. The collaboration will be led by the Rev. David Emmanuel Goatley, research professor of theology and black church studies and director of the Office of Black Church Studies at Duke Divinity School. The initial research phase will bring together teams of scholars in theology, history, sociology and the practice of ministry to study black pastoral leadership during the Reconstruction era, 1865-1877; the civil rights era, 1945-1967; and the megachurch era, 1984-2008; ultimately resulting in the publication of a book on black pastoral leadership. BET and Tyler Perry Studios have set a launch date and price for their new streaming service, BET+. Starting Sept. 19, the subscription video on demand service will be available for $9.99 a month, featuring exclusive new programming and existing movies, series and specials from leading African American creators including Tyler Perry, Will Packer, “Girl’s Trip” screenwriter Tracy Oliver and others. New series to premiere exclusively at the platform’s launch include Oliver’s nine-episode scripted drama “First Wives Club” and Will Packer’s ten-episode series “Bigger.” Watch a teaser video for “First Wives Club” now....https://youtu.be/9V6JuOwIElU The girlfriend of Cleveland Browns defensive end Chris Smith was killed Wednesday morning in a car accident, the NFL team said in a statement.Petara Cordero was in Smith’s 2019 Lamborghini when the couple pulled over to the side of I-90 West in Cleveland around 2 a.m. after a tire blew. The car veered left and hit the median. Without significant injuries, Cordero got out of the car. Shortly after, a woman in a 2017 Mazda 3 hit the passenger’s side of Smith’s car and Cordero, who was standing on the shoulder, Cleveland police said in a statement to CNN. The driver of the second car was also taken to the hospital, where she was to be released after receiving care. The woman admitted she had been drinking, police said. A toxicology report is pending. EXPERIENCE A NIGHT OF PRAYER & PRAISE WITH JAMES FORTUNE ON SEPTEMBER 11TH IN PHILADELPHIA at Kingdom Life Church. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dL_M9ib28fw&feature=youtu.be Hard as it may be to believe, “Harriet” is the first feature film about Harriet Tubman. Kasi Lemmons’ movie about the Underground Railroad leader premiered Tuesday night at the Toronto International Film Festival where festival director Cameron Bailey, introducing the film, noted the cinematic injustice of Tubman only now making it to the big screen. “Harriet,” starring 32-year-old British actress Cynthia Erivo, presents a younger, more vibrant picture of Tubman, whose accomplishments have often been entombed in middle-school history books. And the best-known appearance of Tubman, who was in her late 20s when she escaped from slavery and began going back South to help others to freedom, has largely been of her as an older woman. Tubman, whose original name was Araminta Ross, was born into slavery in 1820 or 1821 on the eastern shore of Maryland. In 1849, she fled to Philadelphia, after which a reward for her recapture was posted. But Tubman returned to the South to lead other slaves to freedom, conducting more than 70 people through the Underground Railroad network of abolitionists. She worked as a scout, spy and nurse for the Union Army during the Civil War. In 1863, she helped lead 150 black soldiers on a gunboat raid in South Carolina. With Col. James Montgomery, she rescued more than 700 slaves. Tubman also became a noted suffragette before dying in 1913. “Harriet,” which will be released in theaters on Nov. 1. There’s good news for Tamron Hall and Kelly Clarkson‘s respective new talk shows. They both debuted on Monday and out of the box they are scoring big ratings. The “Kelly Clarkson Show” kicked things off with a 1.9 household rating/6 share in the metered markets, according to Nielsen’s overnight data. Meanwhile, “Tamron Hall” started off with a 1.4/5. “Tamron Hall,” from Disney-ABC, is hosted by the former “Today” and MSNBC personality. Her return to daytime TV also topped last year’s time periods, jumping 44% to a 2.3/9 in New York and rising 71% in Los Angeles. The bottom line: Hall’s debut was the second-highest for any daytime talk show in five years, just behind Clarkson’s. https://youtu.be/zj8mMBWowpI Dwyane Wade admits that his heart still resides in the sporting world, as the recently retired NBA star has revealed he’s open to owning a team in the NFL. In a conversation with Rick Ross for GQ, the two celebs chop it up about buying a team from an ownership group looking to cash out.“Let’s say the opportunity presented itself and we had the opportunity to buy ourselves an NFL team,” Ross said, “Is that something we move forward on, or don’t?” “I move forward on it,” Wade replied. “I move forward on it. 100 percent.” Adding, “I go in with, ‘Hey, if I’m gonna do this, I need this opened up for others.’ I don’t want to be the only one at the table,” he said. “I never want to be the only one eating well. I want other people at the table, so I can have a great conversation with everybody and everybody doing well.” Ladies! You are invited to Rock Your Heels!!! Rock Your Heels, Inc. will present Bounce Back, Girl, an inspiring and motivational event on October 5, 2019. Rock Your Heels, Inc. (RYH) is a new movement in Nashville, TN designed to inspire and support women and young girls through arts, education and community outreach. RYH was founded by Madelyn Howze in Orlando, Florida in 2014 and is now a 501(c)(3) organization relaunching in Nashville, Tennessee. Bounce Back, Girl will be held at Payne Chapel AME Church. Historically black colleges and universities with a religious affiliation will no longer be restricted from accessing federal funding for capital projects, President Donald Trump announced Tuesday. Trump said federal law had restricted more than 40 faith-based HBCUs and seminaries from fully tapping a program that provides federal loan guarantees for their construction projects. Trump announced that a recent Justice Department legal opinion declared such “discriminatory restrictions” to be unconstitutional. Under a capital financing program for historically black colleges and universities, the Education Department guarantees loans for capital improvements, but funding was restricted for those HBCUs in which a “substantial portion of its function is subsumed in a religious mission.” The Justice Department opinion essentially levels the field for the more than 100 historically black schools nationwide. Erykah Badu, Common & William Murphy Come Through With A Fire Freestyle At Black Girls Rock 2019! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5wz-fZJvncc&feature=youtu.be Angela Bassett accepted the Icon Award at the annual Black Girls Rock! Awards, which aired Sunday night on BET, and Twitter is still raving about her powerful acceptance speech. During her speech, Bassett recalled her experiences as a Black actress and her “purpose” as a woman of color. https://youtu.be/QZ4im5xES5o A lost Martin Luther King speech from 1967 has been discovered in an old recording that also included Ku Klux Klan members calling for the civil rights leader to be shot. The speech was found by the children of a photographer and journalist who hid a tape recorder under a Klan robe to infiltrate a white supremacist rally. Eugene B. Sloane captured a Klan leader calling for King to be killed – less than a year before he was shot dead on a hotel balcony in Memphis, Tennessee. Sloane was a civil rights journalist from The State newspaper in South Carolina when he documented the KKK meeting on July 30, 1967. King was due to speak in Charleston the following day, when Sloane recorded a Klan leader warning of black men raping little white girls, Confederate monuments, crowd sizes and the liberal news media causing ‘n***** riots’. His 45-minute speech on a basic universal income, housing, education reform and jobs was discovered in Sloane’s closet by his daughters. The Virginia governor who narrowly survived a blackface scandal earlier this year appointed a new top aide Monday whose job will be to make government more inclusive. Gov. Ralph Northam announced at a Capitol news conference that he had hired Janice Underwood as Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Her duties will include formulating a strategic plan to address unequal treatment in state government. The governor said Underwood would have broad authority to identify and help eliminate workplace politics that “historically and systematically affect the individual of color and other under-represented groups.”The announcement was the latest in a long string of actions Northam has taken to improve race relations in recent months as he works to repair his image. New England Patriots executives were blindsided by the rape allegations against newly acquired Antonio Brown, and claim they had no knowledge of the accusations until after they signed the wayward wide receiver to a one-year, $15 million deal on Saturday. In a lawsuit, Brown is being accused of rape by his his ex-fitness instructor Britney Taylor, who claims he sexually assaulted her on three occasions in 2017 and 2018. The Patriots only learned about the accusation on Tuesday night, when the lawsuit was made public, according to ESPN. In fact, the team was still celebrating the recent acquisition of Brown, an All-Pro, on Tuesday in the hours before the lawsuit came to light. The personal trainer accusing Antonio Brown of sexual assault and rape identified herself late on Tuesday night after filing a lawsuit against him. Britney Taylor, 28, spoke out via her attorney to say she had decided to come forward to take a stand against Brown. She claims that he raped her in 2017 and 2018, when she worked for him and trained him. In her lawsuit, she says he ‘preyed’ on her ‘kindness’ and ‘religious devotion’ by pretending to share her faith.They met when they were paired as bible study partners while studying at Central Michigan University in 2010 and, Taylor claims, got back in touch in 2017 when he needed help with his flexibility and ankle strength. Taylor, who is from Tennessee and would travel to Florida and Pittsburgh to train Brown, says he sexually assaulted her by forcibly trying to kiss her and then ejaculating on her back in 2017 at one of his homes. She also claims he raped her in May 2018 in Miami after a night out with another, unnamed football player. Neiron Ball, a former Raiders linebacker who has been in a coma since December of 2018 as the result of a rare congenital brain condition, has died, the family announced. We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Neiron Ball on September 10, 2019 at 4:15 am. The Ball family is forever grateful for the prayers, donations, and immense support of Neiron and his recovery. Neiron was a very special and loving father, brother, and teammate. Neiron has transitioned to a place of peace,” wrote Ball’s sister Natalie Myricks in a Facebook post. Ball’s passing was noted in a series of tweets by Raiders tackle Trent Brown, a teammate and close friend. The two played together in college at Florida and became even closer when Ball was a Raiders rookie in 2015 and Brown played across the Bay for the 49ers. An Episcopal seminary in Virginia has announced that its setting aside $1.7 million for an endowment fund aimed at paying reparations for slavery. Virginia Theological Seminary, founded in 1823 and based in Alexandria, announced last Thursday that it was creating the fund largely in response to the institution having direct ties to slavery. from the fund is expected to go to projects such as helping emerging congregations linked to the seminary, aiding African-American clergy, and helping to support work by historically African-American congregations. The Rev. Joseph Thompson, director of the seminary’s Office of Multicultural Ministries, which will oversee the fund, said the fund “has the potential to be transformative.” The Gospel Music Association (GMA) announced another round of all-star performances for the 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards including nominated artists MercyMe, Lecrae and a collaborative worship moment with Phil Wickham, Brian Johnson and the Bethel Music Band. Christian and Gospel legends Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Cece Winans and Steven Curtis Chapman will join together for a special icon performance. The awards show will be held live on October 15 in Nashville, Tennessee and will air exclusively on TBN October 20 at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST. Previously announced performers include TobyMac, Hillsong Worship and Kirk Franklin. More talent announcements are forthcoming. Lauren Daigle leads artist nominations with six, followed by for KING & COUNTRY and Kirk Franklin with five nods each. Top nominated writer/producer Wayne Haun scored 10 nominations. TV One announced today that production is underway in Atlanta, GA for its new holiday film, DEAR SANTA, I NEED A DATE. The film stars Ray J (Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood, Moesha), Reagan Gomez-Preston (The Parent 'Hood, The Cleveland Show) and Anne-Marie Johnson (In Living Color, I'm Gonna Git You Sucka) and is slated to premiere on TV One in December 2019. The movie will be directed by Terri J. Vaughn (The Steve Harvey Show, Daddy's Little Girls), who also directed TV One's 2018 original holiday film MERRY WISHMAS. The mega-hit Bounce original drama "Saints & Sinners" just wrapped its most-watched season ever and the complete series is now available for streaming on Brown Sugar. All-new episodes of the Bounce sitcom "In the Cut" are also available to watch the morning after their Monday night premiere on Bounce, in addition to the full series. Notable classics returning to Brown Sugar this month include "Cry, The Beloved Country" (James Earl Jones), "Sarafina!" (Whoopi Goldberg), "Akeelah and the Bee" (Angela Bassett, Keke Palmer) and"Gang Related" (Tupac Shakur). September's curated collection is "Fall into Faith" featuring feel-good titles such as"Reggie's Prayer" (MC Hammer), "Steps of Faith" (Charles Malik Whitfield) and "Hallelujah Gospel" (Ray Charles). Sharing the Gospel and staying relevant in today’s culture isn’t necessarily the aim of Christian Hip Hop Artist Jerusalemm. The South Carolina native believes that he has a calling to uplift, inspire and educate God’s people with love through music. “If love is our motivating factor, everything that we do will show the love that we have, it then will be the best we have to offer.” This self taught music maker and lyrical poet pulls inspiration from his strong family ties to music and faith to deliver God centered messages encapsulated by hypnotic melodies and mesmerizing rhythms. With his new single, "Dream Reality," the influences of Hip Hop are strong, but the message is even stronger. Dream Reality is available now on all digital platforms and streaming outlets. Many evangelical children of the 1990s, raised on the catchy songs of Larry the Cucumber and the thoughtful lessons of Bob the Tomato, are now raising children of their own. In October, that new generation will have a fresh slew of VeggieTales adventures as the animated series returns through a partnership between Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN), Big Ideas Content Group, and NBCUniversal. But the show’s original fans aren’t the only ones who have grown up—so has Phil Vischer, VeggieTales creator and creative lead on the new series. Vischer says he is leaning on spiritual maturity and lessons learned from the past to take the 18-episode series deeper. Like any deeply rooted system, the racial system of the United States is resilient in the face of attempts to mitigate its power. In the late 19th century, the white southern powers in the US began developing a two-pronged approach to retain power and in effect reestablish slavery in another form. They used a combination of violence and legislation to intimidate and restrict black rights and movement without ever mentioning the word race. In several decisions in the 1890s, the Supreme Court upheld neo-slavery because no intent to reestablish slavery or to develop systems based on race was explicitly expressed in the laws under review. A similar dynamic is at work today. In October 2018, the US Supreme Court voted 5–4 to uphold a North Dakota law that required all voters to have a street address. Native Americans live on reservations without street addresses were the ones primarily affected. No intent to discriminate based on race was expressed in the law, but its purpose was clear—to take the vote away from as many Native Americans as possible. The idea of Reparations is a biblical one. Reparations literally means doing repair work. The community of Israel recognized the need to have a periodic time of repairing the social fabric. One form of reparations was the Jubilee Year (Lev. 25:1–10), when prisoners were freed and debts forgiven. Another was the order to compensate Hebrew slaves when they were released (Deut. 15:12–18)—they were not to be sent way “empty handed.” The people of Israel recognized that reparations is a spiritual issue. Bobby Brown was reportedly removed from a JetBlue flight at the Los Angeles International Airport for ‘being drunk’ despite passengers claiming he wasn’t causing any problems. According to TMZ, Brown was on a JetBlue plane that was getting ready to takeoff for Boston on Monday morning when he was allegedly involved in an altercation. Unnamed sources claimed that Brown was sitting in first class when the incident took place.The plane was still sitting at the gate when everyone was ordered to deboard. Brown was held at the entrance of the plane until police (left) arrived to speak with him. Brown was not allowed back on the flight that was delayed for nearly an hour. The highly-touted Cleveland Browns may have taken a brutal beating at the hands of the underdog Tennessee Titans Sunday afternoon, Odell Beckham Jr., was wearing a very expensive watch while they did it. Photographers, luxury brand lovers and NFL fans couldn’t help noticing the flashy Richard Mille brand timepiece on OBJ’s wrist. The estimated price tag on the lavish watch, modeled after the metallic guts of a Formula 1 race car, is anywhere from $191,500 to $350,000, according to multiple sources. But Richard Mille watches can cost well over $1 million. Beckham has been seen sporting his ‘drippy’ arm candy for months – during practice, in warm-ups and on the August cover of Sports Illustrated magazine. Congrats to Todd Dulaney #1 at Gospel Radio! #38 on The Mediabase ADULT R&B Chart this week!! Flash Back Todd Dulaney !!! Hear Him In His Own Words.... http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/todddulaney_intvw.htm Singer, actress Deborah Joy Winans unveils new single, “When I Rose”, from the soundtrack of OWN and Lionsgate’s gospel series Greenleaf, available for streaming and download tomorrow on all digital platforms. Winans will perform the classic version of the enduring choir tune in Season 4 of Greenleaf, while her new mid-tempo remix out tomorrow will showcase her contemporary vocals while keeping the same joyful spirit of gratitude. “It was so much fun remaking a classic gospel song with a modern twist,” said Winans. “It really speaks to who I am and I hope that it makes people feel good.” https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/676824003%3Fsecret_token%3Ds-FD2qZ&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true Pastor Jamal Bryant Honestly Tackles His Own Sin of Adultery in Sermon Titled “Black Men Don’t Cheat,” Says ‘We Are Living in an Hour with a 21st Century Church That Really Doesn’t Want to be Changed or Delivered; We Just Don’t Want to be Exposed.’ https://youtu.be/CRFxU1h9WCE Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson says his friend and co-star Kevin Hart is doing well, following his recent car accident. “Everything is good,” the former wrestler shared on the premiere episode of “The Kelly Clarkson Show” Monday. Johnson, who has acted with Hart in “Central Intelligence,” “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” and its sequel “The Next Level” due in December, left his honeymoon prematurely to fill in for the comedian on the talk show. According to the report, Hart, 40, was a passenger in his 1970 Plymouth Barracuda when it drove off Mulholland Highway and rolled down an embankment. The car lost control as it turned from a canyon road onto the highway. Two of the car’s three occupants were trapped in the vehicle. Jacqueline Stewart has been named host of Turner Classic Movies’ silent movie program “Silent Sunday Nights,” making her the network’s first African American host in its 25 year history. TCM on Monday announced the hiring of Stewart, a professor of cinema and media studies at the University of Chicago who has specialized in the racial politics of film preservation. She will make her TCM debut on Sunday. THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW WELCOMES THE LEGENDARY GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING SINGER/SONGWRITER SMOKEY ROBINSON, COMEDIANS DONNELL RAWLINGS, FLAME MONROE AND MORE AT 11 P.M ET/10C! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFzXgd1brLA CLEO TV will debut LENS OF CULTURE, a groundbreaking travel series for millennial and Gen X viewers of color, on Saturday, September 21 at 12p.m. ET/11C. This sexy, cultural travel guide is packed with adventure and features international lifestyle influencer Tai Beauchamp and celebrity photographer Elton Anderson.Whether it's a weekend trip to Miami, a traipse through the Caribbean or a West African escapade, Beauchamp and Anderson are offering audiences a first class travel experience through their unique lenses. The duo are known for their down to earth vibes and great personalities, as well as their mutual love for travel, people, food and culture. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqLCBfAlQjY&feature=youtu.be TV One's original auto-biographical series UNCENSORED resumes for its second season with premiere episodes debuting on Sunday, October 6 at 9 p.m. ET/8C. The edgy docu-series explores the private lives of some of today's most notable personalities including singer/actress Tisha Campbell, supermodel Tyra Banks, actress LisaRaye McCoy, comedian/actress Niecy Nash, former NBA star Lamar Odom and more. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DzofkxcRMBA&feature=youtu.be Kanye West drew thousands of fans to Northerly Island Sunday morning for a gospel-friendly concert alongside his protege Chance the Rapper before performing to a raucous congregation at a service at a South Side Baptist church.West, a hometown hero raised on the South Side, returned to Chicago to host his latest Sunday Service concert at the Huntington Bank Pavilion — bringing out an ecstatic crowd of hip-hop heads and others hoping to catch a glimpse of the iconoclastic artist and his famous friends and family. Sunday’s show – free and open to the public, though tickets were required and went fast – was announced Saturday morning. Hall of Fame NFL coach Tony Dungy had some stern words for Raiders-turned-Patriots wide receiver Antonio Brown on Saturday. Among them: Brown “thinks he’s the victim” and Brown will “be the big loser in the end.” Dungy, who won the Super Bowl while coaching the Indianapolis Colts from 2002 to 2008, revealed his feelings about the drama involving 31-year-old Brown on Twitter. He said the former Central Michigan University and Steelers player was “blessed with amazing talent” but has “lost track of the fact football is a team game.” He went on to say that he “feels sorry for” Brown, who is “missing out on the real joy that comes from being part of a team.” Carson Wentz the quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles played college football at North Dakota State University and was selected by the Eagles with the second overall pick of the 2016 NFL Draft. During his time at NDSU, the team won five NCAA FCS national championships. In his first year with the Eagles, he accumulated multiple NFL and Eagles rookie records, including most pass attempts by a rookie quarterback and most pass completions by a rookie. In the 2017 season, he was crucial to the strong and powerful start which had the Eagles at an 11–2 record at the time he went down with an injury. He was 2nd in the NFL in touchdown passes with 33, as well as a media and fan favorite to win MVP but unfortunately missed the last three games of the season due to a season-ending ACL injury in his left knee. However, the Eagles would go on to win Super Bowl LII over the New England Patriots 41–33, the first in franchise history, earning him a championship ring. In 2017, he launched the AO1 Foundation, with AO1 standing for “Audience of One,” referring to playing for God. He also started a project in 2018 in conjunction with Mission of Hope Haiti to build a sports complex in the country using funds from his NFL contract. He has remained outspoken about his faith in Christ, once telling reporters: “If you love your wife, job or what you do, you’re going to talk about it. Well, I love Jesus. That’s who I love, so I’m going to talk about it.” He believes that he has an obligation to use his platform as an NFL quarterback to be a witness for Christ and spread the Gospel, often preaching at churches and sharing his testimony at colleges. During a sermon shared in 2017 at First Assembly Church in Fargo, North Dakota, he spoke to the congregation about salvation and quoted from Ephesians 2:8-10, which reads: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” GRAMMY-nominated James Fortune's 10th album, "Dream Again" reaching #1 on the Top Gospel Album Sales and Gospel Album Sales chart. In receipt of the news, James Fortune, took to social media saying, “[This is] Proof you can Dream Again.” "Dream Again" features Fortune’s innovative style of preaching, urban gospel hip-hop soul, complete with Fortune's spoken, sung, and shouted encouragement. "Dream Again" boasts the hit, “I Am (featuring Deborah Carolina)” and incredible collaborations “It’s Gonna Happen (featuring Zacardi Cortez),” “It Will All Work Out (featuring Keith “Wonderbody” Johnson),” “Nobody Like Jesus (featuring Lisa Knowles Smith)” and more. Multiple GRAMMY®, Stellar, and Dove Award-winning Gospel icon Donnie McClurkin releases a new single “There Is God”. The new single, accompanied by a performance video, is available now at all digital music providers and serves as the second single released from the Gospel legend’s forthcoming album. Donnie McClurkin: “There is God” Performance Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9JRtMDO6qI Tiffany "Miz Tiffany" Coleman-McGee has been coined a "triple threat in entertainment." She is Mississippi's first multi-award-winning Christian Hip Hop Artist. Her trendsetting work has broken traditions within the four walls of the church as well as introduced a unique multi-cultural and ethnic style of music and ministry to the gospel, urban and hip hop communities. Her artistry and debut album entitled, "I Ain’t Preaching to the Choir” were Grammy-considered in four categories. Miz Tiffany has made history as the first-ever female solo rap artist to ever receive an official Stellar Gospel Music Award nomination for Rap / Hip Hop Gospel CD of the Year. Her acting career began in 2010. She has since landed featured roles on both cable and network television. She played a farmer on Season 2 of Queen Sugar, and earned a core featured role on Season 4 of Fox's Empire as Shine’s children's mother. Additionally, she is a 2X published author. Miz Tiffany drops new single "Go Hard." Flash Back Gospel Spotlight!!! Hear Miz Tiffany In Her Own Words.....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/miztiffany_intvw.htm Recording artist Micah Lee's newest single "Dont Break" is currently making some major noise in the industry. "Don't Break" released in May 2019 is Micah's 4th straight Billboard's top 20 single. Don't Break has held the #1 spot on Nielsen BDS Internet Gospel Radio Panel for 13 consecutive weeks. Micah Lee who is also one of Fred Jerkins newest clients at Darkchild Gospel has reached over 500,000 total streams for popular single. https://youtu.be/oedpTWPDnmI Thrice-married gospel singer and comedian, Vickie Winans, who brings joy and laughter to audiences through her songs and comedy, is now sharing her personal grief and sadness with the world. The 65-year-old GRAMMY® Award-nominated recording artist announced on social media that her “latest husband,” Joe McLemore, passed away on the evening of Saturday, Aug. 24 while golfing.“I spent 10 years of my life with the sweetest man I have ever met,” said Winans, captioning the pair’s wedding photograph. “We were still the best of friends and we loved each other beyond what the word divorce means. Joe, I will always love you and my soul is gripping in grief! You were so happy for me and the wind beneath my wings! You were never egotistical, narcissistic, nor mean, just a pure sweetheart!” Though Winans did not specifically share McLemore’s cause of death, she hinted that he had serious health problems, writing, “No more amputations baby, no more pain, no more false hope or anything else.” A career that crosses generations: Tom Brady‘s remarkable longevity will be highlighted in a unique way Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers — for the first time in his 20-year career, he can now say he has played a regular-season game against a father and his son. In 2001, Brady’s first year as a starter, the Patriots beat the Browns 27-16 in a December game that Devin Bush Sr. started at safety for Cleveland. Now, Brady is preparing to face the Steelers and their impressive first-round pick, linebacker Devin Bush Jr. Bush, who won a Super Bowl with the Rams in the 1999 season. “That he’s freakin’ amazing,” he said. “When I faced him, I didn’t know as much about him. I’m from the era of Drew Bledsoe. I knew he was his replacement, so we were like, ‘Let’s go get this guy.’ But now, I get a chance to say I played against one of the best quarterbacks ever. And my son can also say that, and it’s the same guy.” Four times in the past 14 months, Serena Williams, the greatest tennis player of all time and the most famous working mom in sports, has entered a Grand Slam final with the chance to tie history. All four times she could not close the deal when it mattered most. Saturday evening, it was another straight-set loss, this time 6-3, 7-5 to Canadian teenager Bianca Andreescu. Serena is trying to tie Margaret Court who has 24 Grand Slam titles. Chicago based television production company Central City Productions held the 2019 Black Music Honors television taping last night at The Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, GA. During this star-studded two-hour television special, Central City Productions honored Xscape who received the Urban Music Icon Award; Yolanda Adams who received the Gospel Music Icon Award; Arrested Development, Tamia, and Freddie Jackson also received awards. Rickey Smiley and LeToya Luckett returned as the show’s co-hosts. 2019’s show featured tribute performances by Avery Wilson, Dee-1, Jade Novah, Jagged Edge, Jekalyn Carr, Naughty By Nature, June's Diary, Keke Wyatt, Kelly Price, Le'Andria Johnson, Melanie Fiona, 702, MAJOR. and more. The show will air Sunday, October 20th at noon EST on Bounce TV, and in national broadcast syndication, September 14 – October 20. Three-time GRAMMY® nominee, multiple award-winning artist, songwriter, and producer Travis Greene, has launched his upcoming new album Broken Record, available for pre-order now. Unveiling the album cover and track list, the new album features the lead single “Won’t Let Go,” which was recently released to radio along with the official video for the song. Greene has released the new song “Good & Loved” ft. Steffany Gretzinger, which is now available as an instant grat track together with “Won’t Let Go.” Greene will also perform in an album pre-release event in Washington DC on Saturday October 5th, at the 12th Annual Spirit of Praise Celebration sponsored by Radio One, Inc., Praise 104.1, DC’s Inspiration station. The Spirit of Praise Celebration also featuring Kurt Carr, William McDowell, Koryn Hawthorne, Jonathan Nelson & Purpose, and BET’s “Sunday Best” winner Melvin Crispell, III and finalists Joshua Copeland and Tiffany Andrews. The show will take place at the Entertainment and Sports Arena in Washington, DC. Travis Greene: “Good & Loved” ft. Steffany Gretzinger (Official Music Video) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DefL-oJpjo8 THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE WELCOMES A TALENTED AND HANDSOME LINE UP WITH ACTORS DORIEN WILSON, BRIAN WHITE, COLUMBUS SHORT, MAJOR, TRAVIS GREENE AND MORE SPECIAL GUESTS! Tyler Perry, once again, is stepping up to the plate – BIG TIME – to help folks in need. And these days, in the wake of the damage that Hurricane Dorian did to The Bahamas. He is providing aid to those in need in the island nation. Specifically, Perry is using his personal seaplane based in Nassau to fly relief supplies to the Abaco Islands (part of the Bahamas), which were hardest hit by the hurricane this week, reports TMZ. The site says his plane already made 2 trips Thursday, and Perry hopes to send several more shipments. Chance the Rapper and Kirsten Bennett have welcomed their second child. Kirsten confirmed the news Friday afternoon in an Instagram post that partially showed the newborn. “Our sweet baby girl, Marli, is here,” the caption read. The couple, who tied the knot back in March, had their first child together, Kensli, in 2015. Former Oakland Raiders’ wide receiver Antonio Brown has reportedly cut a deal with the New England Patriots, hours after he was released from the Raiders, capping off months of bizarre drama. The NFL reports that the one-year deal with the Patriots is for $15 million, with a $9 million signing bonus. The Oakland Raiders announced Saturday morning that they released Antonio Brown hours after the star wide receiver posted a plea to be “released” on his Instagram feed. Trouble started between Brown and the team almost immediately after he signed a contract worth $50 million before the start of the season. He battled the Raiders management over his refusal to wear an NFL-approved helmet, and then missed most of training camp because of a cryotherapy machine mishap that left his feet frostbitten. He was fined more than $50,000 for the missed practices, over which he threatened to punch general manager Mike Mayock in the face during a swearing match. Deitrick Haddon is back at radio with an up-tempo feel good single "Open Door Season". Haddon has delivered hit singles like "Be Like Jesus", "A Billion People", and "Glory". "Open Door Season" doesn't disappoint. Haddon is a master at infusing biblical truth with beautiful harmonies, funk, soul, and memorable lyrics. “Open Door Season” https://www.dropbox.com/sh/3w6prk55fyirjuy/AADQkkOib16kUqH_nVU4XHvya?dl=0 Check out this recap from #Engage Culture event in Columbia, SC this past weekend with Travis Greene. https://www.dropbox.com/s/73az31ysdox9ri8/Saturday%20Recap.mp4?dl=0 Dr. Jonathan Greer, II, Stellar Award Winner, Grammy Nominated musician, writer, Pastor and Bishop, transitioned on August 31st, 2019, surround by his family and loved ones. The Gospel Spotlight ask you to keep the family in prayer. Essence magazine has announced that it will switch to a bimonthly publishing schedule starting in 2020. The independently owned lifestyle magazine for Black women will move to an “enhanced double issue,” featuring an additional 80 pages per issue, New York Daily News reports. “As we approach our 50th anniversary as a brand, we are grateful that Essence continues to thrive in a class of its own — by tenure, by focus and by impact,” said Michelle Ebanks, CEO of Essence Communications. “Essence stands the test of time because we have always responded to the diverse and evolving needs of the community of Black women we serve with the urgency, quality and understanding they deserve, and that remains our focus in everything we do — to test, learn and grow with the community that grows with us.” TV One and CLEO TV General Manager Michelle Rice will be honored for her work in media by Temple University's Klein College of Media and Communications. As previously announced by Temple University, Rice will be honored with the Lew Klein Alumni in Media Award on October 4 in Philadelphia during a luncheon ceremony for her accomplishments in the media industry. Named in honor of the late broadcasting pioneer Lew Klein, the Alumni in Media Awards pay tribute to both Klein's influential career and to his 67 years of teaching at Temple. Warner Bros. Pictures dropped the official new “Just Mercy” film trailer today. Michael B. Jordan (Black Panther, Creed, Fantastic 4) and Oscar® winners Jamie Foxx (Ray, Django Unchained), and Brie Larson (Captain Marvel, Room, The Glass Castle) star in “Just Mercy,” an inspiring drama that brings one of the most important stories of our time to the big screen. The film is based on Bryan Stevenson’s bestselling book, Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption. “Just Mercy,” produced by Gil Netter (Life of Pi,The Shack, The Blind Side), Asher Goldstein and Michael B. Jordan, and directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, will be in theaters this December. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVQbeG5yW78&feature=youtu.be TolumiDE express heartfelt characteristics of genuine 'Beautiful' friendship and love with English lyrics and the phrase "Ore Mi" which means 'My friend" in Yoruba language. New music from TolumiDE https://smarturl.it/TolumiDE-Beautiful The founder of Papa John’s has donated $1 million to a historically black college in Kentucky after more than a year of backlash for his use of a racial slur. News outlets report John Schnatter announced the donation Wednesday at Simmons College of Kentucky. The college’s president, the Rev. Kevin Cosby, and its board of trustees chairman, Mark Lynn, emphasized that people should focus on Schnatter’s actions and not his words. Schnatter stepped down as CEO of the Louisville-based pizza chain in 2017 and later resigned as its chair after blaming disappointing sales on the NFL player protests and using the N-word during a company conference call . WLKY-TV reports Simmons is Kentucky’s only private historically black college. The Courier Journal reports Schnatter left the announcement event without speaking with reporters. Former U.S. poet laureate Rita Dove has received a $100,000 prize for lifetime achievement. Dove, whose previous honors include the Pulitzer Prize, is this year’s winner of the Wallace Stevens Award for “proven mastery” in poetry. The prize was among several announced Thursday by the Academy of American Poets. Kyle Dargan’s “Anagnorisis” received the $25,000 Lenore Marshall Poetry Prize for the past year’s outstanding poetry book. Aditi Machado’s “Emporium” won the James Laughlin Award, a $5,000 prize for a second book of poetry. The Academy of American Poets Fellowship, which includes a $25,000 stipend, was given to Ilya Kaminsky. Will Schutt’s translations of the Italian poet Fabio Pusterla brought him a $25,000 award. Seth Frank was named the most promising young poet for his poem “Black Mythology.” The Oakland Raiders probably regret their investment into Antonio Brown already, given that the team is planning to suspend the star wide receiver before the season even begins after he got into some kind of incident/altercation/heated argument with GM Mike Mayock, according to a report from Adam Schefter of ESPN. Brown had to be “held back by a couple of teammates” when confronting Mayock. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, the incident did not get physical, however Brown did say he would punch Mayock — his boss! — in the face and then punted a ball and told Mayock to fine him for that. Brown was recently fined by the Raiders for missing practice and the team included in the letter to Brown that he was running up against a situation where he could behave in a manner that would qualify as “conduct detrimental to the team.” Survivors of a 2015 mass shooting at a South Carolina church can sue the U.S. government over its alleged negligence in allowing Dylann Roof to buy the gun he used to kill nine African-Americans, a federal appeals court said on Friday. The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said the government was not immune from liability under either the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) or the Brady Act to prevent handgun violence. Friday’s decision by a three-judge panel revived 16 lawsuits that challenged lapses in how the government vetted prospective gun purchasers, including the FBI’s management of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). Roof, a white supremacist, had been admitted to a Bible study session at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston on June 17, 2015, where he then used his .45-caliber Glock semiautomatic pistol in the shooting. Victims said a proper background check would have shown that Roof had recently admitted to drug possession, which would have disqualified him from buying the gun from a federally licensed dealer two months earlier. Roof, now 25, was sentenced to death in January 2017 after being convicted on 33 federal counts related to the shooting, including hate crimes. He pleaded guilty three months later to state murder charges, and was sentenced to nine consecutive life terms without parole. Ezekiel Elliott has a new contract with the Dallas Cowboys just in time for the regular season. The star running back and the club agreed Wednesday on a $90 million, six-year contract extension that will make him the NFL’s highest-paid player at his position and end a holdout that lasted the entire preseason. The breakthrough was finalized before dawn on the morning of the team’s first full workout before Sunday’s opener at home against the New York Giants. Elliott will get $50 million guaranteed. The $15 million-per-year average on the extension surpasses the $14.4 million Todd Gurley got from the Los Angeles Rams last summer. Gurley’s guarantee was $45 million. R&B singer Tamia will receive the Soul Music Icon Award during the 4th Annual Black Music Honors award show in Atlanta, GA. on Thursday, September 5th at The Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Artists slated to perform are Naughty by Nature, Keke Wyatt, Jagged Edge, Kelly Price, 702, Le’Andria Johnson, Avery Wilson, Dee-1, Jade Novah, Leon Timbo, MAJOR., Mali Music, Tony Terry, Jekalyn Carr, Jessie Woo, Melanie Fiona, June’s Diary, Travis Greene, Maimouna Youssef aka Mumu Fresh, and Tevin Campbell. Tamia joins fellow honorees Xscape, Yolanda Adams, Arrested Development, and Freddie Jackson. Hosted by Rickey Smiley and LeToya Luckett. Olympic gymnastics champion Simone Biles says she’s struggling with the arrest of her brother who was charged in a shooting that left three dead. She said in a tweet Monday that her heart aches for everyone involved, especially the victims and their families. Authorities in Ohio say 24-year-old Tevin Biles-Thomas was arrested in Georgia last week after being indicted on murder, manslaughter and other charges in a New Year’s Eve party shooting. Tevin Biles-Thomas is scheduled for arraignment in Cleveland on Sept. 13. No attorney is listed for him in court records. You are not in the company of Shanti Chapman long before you’re acquainted with what drives him. His musical artistry and his heart for people are his evident tools for encouraging people to live full, live well and be all they can become in Christ. He is a singer, songwriter and musician who is offering encouragement through his single "Joy Comes In The Morning". https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZ-LYGNR9BQ&feature=youtu.be Two-time GRAMMY® nominee, guitarist/vocalist Jonathan Butler, will release his highly-anticipated new album of holiday collaborations, Christmas Together, October 4, 2019. Butler’s all-star friends, Sheléa, Dave Koz, Keiko Matsui, Kirk Whalum, Rick Braun and Gerald Albright join Jonathan to re-imagine nine classic Christmas favorites, such as “Joy To The World,” We Three Kings,” “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” and a new original tune, “Love Is,” written by Butler and Sheléa. Jonathan produced Christmas Together in the intimate setting of his home studio in Southern California. Flash Back Gospel spotlight! Hear Jonathan Butler In His Own Words.....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/jonathan_butler_intvw.htm News of the signing of Jonathan Traylor came Friday night, during a celebration concert at the Grenada Theater in the singer’s hometown of Dallas, TX. Motown Gospel Co-Executive Directors Monica Coates and EJ Gaines were on-hand to make the announcement. This year, Traylor’s local artistry was catapulted to the national stage with incredible momentum, spurred on by his opening for Jonathan McReynolds’ Make More Room tour and being featured on the pre-show stage of Kirk Franklin’s second annual Exodus Music & Arts Festival. In celebration of the signing, Motown Gospel has re-released Jonathan Traylor’s career-propelling independent project, Stones & Giants. The 12-track album, written almost entirely by Traylor and co-produced with his UK-born and bred music partner Mr. Damention, includes fan favorites like the hard-hitting “Purpose Over Pleasure,” the lyrical “Brand New,” and the upbeat anthem “Won’t Let Me Down,” as well as the worshipful ballads “Masterpiece” and “Breathe Life.” Jonathan Traylor is currently working on new music. Café Mocha Radio hosts Loni Love, also of The Real, and female rap legend YoYo kicked off Café Mocha Radio’s 9th Annual Salute Her Awards, at Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater in D.C.. Guided by this year’s theme “Step Into Your Power,” the first stop of the five-city Salute Her Awards Tour presented by Toyota, Sisters from AARP, LusterPINK and American Airlines. Salute Her D.C. honorees included: The Washington Informer publisher Denise Rolark Barnes, FOX 5 Morning personality and WHUR afternoon host Allison Seymour, Stacie Lee Banks and Kristie Lee of their family’s Lee’s Flower & Card Shop, Madelynn’s Bake Sale CEO Madelynn Martin and her mother Tosha Terry, community activist and MSNBC contributor Karine Jean-Pierre, retired Marines Gunnery Sergeant Tee Marie Hanible, former Congressional Black Caucus Executive Director Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner and Washington Post first black woman reporter Dorothy Butler Gilliam. On the mend. Kevin Hart’s wife, Eniko Hart, gave a promising update on the stand-up comedian’s condition after a scary car accident left him hospitalized. “He’s great,” Eniko, 35, told TMZ Monday, September 2, on her way to visit Kevin, 40, at the hospital. “He’s going to be just fine.” Eniko (née Parrish) continued, “He’s good. Everybody’s good, thank God. … He’s fine. He’s awake.” When asked whether the actor is back to laughing and joking yet, Eniko responded, “Nah.” Kevin sustained major back injuries after his 1970 Plymouth Barracuda veered off Mulholland Highway and landed in a ditch in the Calabasas neighborhood of Los Angeles Sunday, September 1. Kevin successfully underwent back surgery on Sunday night, according to multiple reports. He is expected to make a full recovery.The Harts, who tied the knot in August 2016, share son Kenzo, 21 months. Kevin is also the father of daughter Heaven, 14, and son Hendrix, 11, with his ex-wife, Torrei Hart. Kim Kardashian teased a new Christian music album from her husband Kanye West on Instagram on Friday. In a photo uploaded to Instagram that has already been liked over half a million times, a Bible opened in the Psalms can be seen next to what appears to be a tracklist for West’s new album on a notebook. The list is headed ‘Jesus is King’ and then appears to list 12 songs with names like “Selah”, “God Is”, “Baptized” and “Sweet Jesus”. At the bottom of the page is written the date “September 27th”. Also seen in the picture is a notepad of what appears to be ideas for lyrics, with “He will defend” scrawled above the words “kingdom”, “lion” and “fire”. Kim captioned the picture with the same date and prayer hands, causing much excitement among Kanye fans that the rapper is about to drop a Christian album. Rapper Kanye West is slated to release his new album, Jesus is King, next month. West’s wife, Kim Kardashian West, posted a photo on Twitter of what appeared to be a track list and a release date of Sept. 27. According to Pitchfork, the track list included “Water,” a song that West performed at his Coachella “Sunday Service” performance earlier this year. The rapper released his most recent album, ye, last year. He announced that he would release another album, Yandhi, in September 2018, but the project was postponed indefinitely. At his “Sunday Service” performances, West—along with a choir—has performed covers of West’s old songs and other church tunes. Misty Copeland had the world of ballet standing still, when she made history as the first Black female principal dancer to the prestigious American Ballet Theatre (ABT) in 2015, just months after becoming the first Black woman to perform the lead role of “Odette” in ABT’s coveted “Black Swan” in the winter of 2014. Determined to shatter the glass ceiling of the ballet world, on Sep. 11, the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) will honor Misty Copeland with their esteemed Trailblazer Award during the CBC’s annual “Celebration of the Arts” event—an award that Copeland deemed as not only an honor but also a necessity. “It’s so important for other Black dancers to see a possibility, a future for themselves, in a world that still doesn’t include many other Black ballerinas,” Copeland said. On Sunday, September 15, the National Congress of Black Women will celebrate its 35th annual brunch in the Thurgood Marshall Room of the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, D.C. The non-profit dedicated to the educational, political, economic and cultural development of Black women, will also honor the 50th anniversary of Shirley Chisholm’s election to Congress. In 1968, Chisholm became the first Black woman to serve in Congress. In 1972, Chisholm became the first Black woman to seek the nomination for President of the United States from a major political party. Mention the phrase “royal wedding” and most people’s thoughts go directly to the global event that was Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s nuptials. Nearly 50 million people in America in the U.K. tuned in to watch the event on television, and global estimates put the viewership closer to two billion. The wedding blended different cultures, and notably featured an American preacher and The Kingdom Choir, the talented gospel singers who sang a stirring rendition of “Stand By Me.” Since their performance at the royal ceremony, the choir has been experiencing a whirlwind of opportunities and success. Led by director Karen Gibson, the group still feels humbled and honored to have sung for the couple on their special day. CBS News reported that within that first week following the wedding, The Kingdom Choir’s “Stand By Me” reached number one on the Billboard Hot Gospel Chart. By July, Sony offered them a record deal. According to NPR, the London-based group has performed for Bill Clinton, Queen Elizabeth II, and Nelson Mandela in the past, but the wedding was a high point because it was a celebration of love. The Kingdom Choir released their debut album, Stand By Me, in October 2018. Seven-time Billboard #1 chart-topper, three-time GRAMMY®, two-time Billboard Music Award and NAACP Image Award® nominated, GMA Dove Award and four-time Stellar Award-winning singer-songwriter Jekalyn Carr announces the title to her fifth live album, entitled CHANGING YOUR STORY. Slated for a 2020 release. The 22-year-old published author, profound speaker, entrepreneur, and television and film actress will record her next live album (5th overall) at Atlanta’s Praise 102.5 FM 15th Annual Praise In The Park Saturday, October 5, 2019, at the Cellairis Amphitheatre at Lakewood in Atlanta, GA. An arrest warrant has reportedly been issued in Alabama for Los Angeles Lakers star DeMarcus Cousins after he allegedly threatened his ex-girlfriend, ESPN reported. The Mobile municipal court website reportedly said Cousins has been charged with “third-degree harassing communications,” but no other details were made available. A police spokesperson confirmed the arrest warrant to USA Today Sports. Cousins’ ex-girlfriend Christy West is reportedly seeking a restraining order against the NBA player after he allegedly called her and said he would “put a bullet in [her] f****** head” when she declined to let their son to go to his wedding. The NBA previously said it was investigating the matter, and the Lakers said they were “gathering information” about the incident. In January of 2016, The Birth of a Nation was the talk of the Sundance Film Festival. The lyrical film, chronicling Nat Turner’s slave rebellion, had landed at just the right time—in the midst of #OscarsSoWhite, a controversy stemming from the fact that all 20 acting nominees at the Academy Awards that year were white. After a heated bidding war, it was acquired by Fox Searchlight for $17.5 million, making it the priciest acquisition in Sundance history, and looked poised for an awards run. Then, in the months prior to its release, writer/director/producer/star Nate Parker’s past rape allegation resurfaced. In 1999, while a student on a wrestling scholarship at Penn State University, Parker and his best friend, Jean Celestin—a co-writer on The Birth of a Nation—were accused of raping a young white woman on campus, as well as subsequently launching a harassment campaign against her that ultimately forced her to switch schools. A jury acquitted Parker, but Celestin was found guilty and sentenced to six months to a year in jail. When the judge deemed that sentence “too lenient,” Celestin was sentenced to an additional two to four years behind bars—upon being granted a second trial, however, prosecutors declined to retry the case, and he was set free. Three years later, Parker is back with his sophomore feature American Skin, which debuts Sept. 1 at the Venice Film Festival. The film, written, directed by, and starring Parker, centers on Lincoln Jefferson (Parker), a Marine veteran who, after his 14-year-old son is executed by a white police officer during a traffic stop, and after no charges are filed against the cop, holds the entire precinct hostage in his quest for justice. On August 23rd, three-time GRAMMY® nominated, multiple award-winning artist, songwriter, and producer, Travis Greene, was presented with a Gold Plaque from RCA Inspiration for his #1 smash hit single “Intentional”, which has been RIAA-Certified Gold® for a half-million in sales. The chart-topper was presented with this award during his annual Engage Culture Weekend, hosted from his home base of Columbia, SC. The weekend featured empowering live events with special guests including Kirk Franklin, DeVon Franklin, Heather Lindsey, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Matt Kemp, and more. Sasha Obama will reportedly kick off college life at the University of Michigan next week. Barack Obama’s younger daughter was seen by students attending summer freshman orientation and again this week accompanied by men believed to be Secret Service agents, per The Detroit News. Sasha is reportedly enrolled for classes that start Tuesday. Her sister, Malia, took a gap year in 2016 before enrolling at Harvard University, where Barack and Michelle attended law school. Malia begins her third year at Harvard this fall. “I was walking by pushing a vacuum and she walked out right in front of me,” said Zach Lassen, a third-year film student from Redford. “I said, ‘Excuse me.’ It was a crowded hallway with her and some Secret Service dudes.” Another student who saw Obama during student orientation said they have mutual friends and noted that Sasha is just “a normal student to me.” Sasha is reportedly enrolled for classes that start Tuesday. Her sister, Malia, took a gap year in 2016 before enrolling at Harvard University, where Barack and Michelle attended law school. Malia begins her third year at Harvard this fall. Check out new artist Dr. James Mable Jr. and his New Single "I'm Free" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQh1frVuqnw&feature=youtu.be Aretha Franklin’s family is reportedly busy brawling over her $80 million fortune, so her sons and relatives couldn’t be bothered visiting her burial site on the one-year anniversary of her death. According to RadarOnline, only a handful of visitors were spotted at Detroit’s Woodlawn Cemetery to pay respect to Franklin, who passed away on Aug. 16, 2018, at the age of 76 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. “I’m just surprised no one from her family showed up on the one-year anniversary of her death,” said one observer at the cemetery’s mausoleum where Franklin’s remains are interred. “I only saw a few loyal fans who loved her music and felt the need to pay their respects.” There is a bitter court battle that has Aretha’s sons Kecalf Cunningham and Edward Franklin against their brothers Teddy Richards and Clarence Franklin, and the singer’s niece, Sabrina Owens. The marquee matches scheduled for the day at the 2019 US Open included Serena Williams, Venus Williams and Madison Keys. The three high profile American ladies were all competing for a spot in the third round. Venus Williams, the sentimental favorite, was first up to bat for her chance to advance. She was up against 5th ranked Elina Svitolina of the Ukrane. They played a grueling 16-minute game at 5-3, with Venus on serve and finally holding, but it depleted the American’s tank. The Russian was just too steady and spry to fold. It was hard-fought, but the Ukrainian relied on those attributes and prevailed, 6-4, 6-4. Stellar and Dove Award Nominated artist G.I.is back! And for the first time ever, they are emerging with a live album. On December 15th, 2018, the group celebrated their 20 year anniversary with a live recording/concert. The special event was held at Speaking Spirit Ministries Richmond VA. That night, fans were treated to a stellar performance of G.I.’s current and past hits over their 20 year career. The lead single “SO GOOD Live” will proceed the full project. “SO GOOD Live” is laced with beautiful smooth harmonies that G.I. fans have grown to love over the years, intricate arranged live music, and a power-packed message proclaiming that through it all, God has been “SO GOOD!” “SO GOOD Live” hits all digital outlets this Friday August 30th, and impacts radio September 9th. More than 1,000 people were on hand to bid farewell to the Rev. Dr. Edward V. Hill II on Aug. 24, at West Angeles Church of God in Christ. Hill, the pastor of Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church and Spirit of Zion Fellowship Church, passed away suddenly on August 12, at the age of 52. The ecumenical crowd contained a wide range of clergy and lay people, who wept, shouted, danced and rejoiced throughout the spirit-filled service, which included music by the combined choirs of Mount Zion and Spirit of Zion. The Rev. Dr. Melvin V. Wade Sr., pastor emeritus of Mount Moriah Baptist Church, and the Rev. Dr. Robert A. Williams, pastor of McCoy Memorial Baptist Church, officiated the service. Bishop Kenneth C. Ulmer, pastor of Faithful Central Bible Church, described Hill as “a man full of Holy Ghost. The Lord gives and takes away. He takes us from pain, heartache, and troubles. God brings us to a place prepared for us. Blessed be the name of the Lord.” The home of Detroit’s annual auto show and other major events has officially changed its name to the TCF Center and moved on from its original name, which honored a former mayor known for racist and segregationist policies, officials announced Tuesday. Officials said the Cobo Center name is no more, making good on the February announcement of a $33 million naming rights deal with Chemical Bank, which is now a division of TCF Bank. The name change will save taxpayers millions of dollars. It had been owned and operated by the city until 2009, when the Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority was created. The move also purges a negative aspect of Detroit’s history: Albert Cobo, who served as mayor from 1950 to 1957, sought to keep blacks out of predominantly white neighborhoods. The convention center opened on the Detroit River waterfront in 1960, three years after Cobo died. Angela Curry has joined the Presbyterian Foundation as Vice President and General Counsel. She has advised public and private institutions for nearly 20 years, 15 of those serving as General Counsel. Previously Angela served as General Counsel and Chief Administrative Officer for the Hussian College corporate hub in Nashville, Tennessee. Prior to that, she was the General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for Kentucky State University and Fisk University, where she advised both institutions on regulatory, human resource, and corporate governance matters. Curry is glad to serve in a position that allows her to practice and explore her faith as part of her work. “I am excited about the opportunity to serve with such a talented team on initiatives that positively impact communities throughout the United States and around the world,” Curry says. “It is an opportunity to serve God in a new way.” A prime-time gala came to America’s Grand Slam on opening night, and all that was missing was the red carpet. You had two of the biggest, bold-face names in the sport, Serena and Maria. And so it was again on the blue hardcourt of Arthur Ashe Stadium. Serena Williams put on a display of punishing power and unrelenting pressure, her old indomitable self, as if she had turned the calendar back a decade or so, as if she wanted to administer this 6-1, 6-1 pummeling of Maria Sharapova to impress the smartly dressed bearded fellow in the President’s box, Mike Tyson, who knows a few things about quick knockouts. https://youtu.be/mbQtqH3QLqg ; Mourners occupied every seat and much of the available standing room in Cascade Methodist Church on Wednesday to remember an accomplished Atlanta family who died in an apparent murder suicide. Police believe Dr. Marsha Edwards shot her two adult children, 24-year-old Chris Jr. and 20-year old Erin, and then turned the gun on herself. The tragedy left friends and family struggling for answers. But on Wednesday all three were eulogized together. Atlanta Mayor and family friend Keisha Lance Bottoms, Gov. Brian Kemp and U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop were among those paying their respects. The bodies of the family were discovered after prominent Atlanta surgeon Christopher Edwards, father to Chris and Erin, requested Cobb police conduct a welfare check at his ex-wife’s Vinings townhome. Chris and Erin were eulogized as high achievers known for their extraordinary kindness. Judge Mathis is reportedly the subject of a criminal investigation for assault after he allegedly spit in a valet’s face. The incident happened in Detroit at Flood’s Bar and Grille where Mathis reportedly went off on a valet in a “profanity-laced schooling,” as TMZ put it, all because he was left waiting for his Rolls Royce for at least 10-15 minutes. According to sources Mathis had no sympathy for the valet’s excuse which was that he had to travel a long way to get another car and apologized for accidentally taking the judge’s keys with him. After cussing the crap out of the poor guy, Mathis allegedly spit on him and left the scene. The valet filed a police report accusing Mathis of criminal assault, and police are said to be investigating the incident, which was reportedly seen by multiple witnesses. In celebration of the 20th anniversary of The Parkers, TV One will host a "Parkers-Palooza" marathon of the hit series on Friday, August 30. This Labor Day weekend binge watch your favorite episodes from 8 P.M. to 3 A.M. ET/7C! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkRZSy2TSWo&feature=youtu.be Naomi Osaka, WTA world no. 1, kicked off her campaign to defend her US Open title inside Ashe Stadium on Day two of the event. Her last time inside the stadium was both triumphant and heartbreaking. She won her maiden Grand Slam title against her idol, Serena Williams, there, but she was reduced to tears by boos and jeers emanating from the crowd over the controversy between Williams and line judge. Based on her scratchy play during the match, she did appear to be haunted by the past. Who really knows what was going on in her head, but she struggled to maintain her focus the entire match. She took the first set 6-4, but it wasn’t at all pretty. She wasn’t so fortunate to escape her erratic play in the second, however. Her feisty opponent, Anna Blinkova, was finally able to capitalize on one of the many chances she received to break Osaka and winning the second set tiebreaker, 7(7)-6(5). She eked over the finish line with what she called “razzle dazzle:” The final score was 6-4, 6(5)-7(7), 6-2. https://youtu.be/fOk4vV31oT0 People from all over the world will attend the highly anticipated International Faith Conference (IFC) hosted for 25 years by Bill Winston Ministries. The annual event begins Sunday, September 8 through Friday, September 13 at Living Word Christian Center in Forest Park. This year's theme is "Faith that Dominates." For five days and six nights, dynamic faith leaders will impart biblical wisdom and teach how to use faith in God to dominate circumstances and fulfill their God-given purpose and destiny. Faith is the key to turning dreams into reality, and for more than two decades, this International Faith Conference has been helping people. This year's speakers include Bishop Tudor Bismark, Dr. Paul Enenche, Dr. Jesse Duplantis, Dr. Creflo Dollar, Rev. Samuel Rodriguez and Rev. Cynthia Brazelton. Pastor Tamara Bennett and Michelle McKinney Hammond will minister at the 7th Annual Prayer, Praise and Pampering Women's Luncheon. Musical Artists will be Walt Whitman & The Soul Children of Chicago, Donald Lawrence, Micah Stampley, J.J. Hairston & Youthful Praise, David and Nicole Binion, Todd Dulaney and Alleece Baker. GRAMMY-nominated and Dove Award winning worship leader, pastor and author, William McDowell, will release his new live album, "The Cry," September 20th. The album was recorded at Redemption to the Nations Church in Chattanooga, TN and features special guest artists Nathaniel Bassey, Travis Greene, Yolanda Adams, David and Nicole Binion, Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Trinity Anderson (worship leader of McDowell’s Deeper Fellowship church). For 20 years, McDowell has been writing songs crying out for God to bring revival. However, his latest release is not a collection of songs crying out for God to come; rather it’s a collection of songs written as a response to a God who already has. Two decades ago, McDowell began praying for revival to break out in his community, and on May 22, 2016, the presence of God entered his church of Deeper Fellowship in Orlando and has yet to leave. Speaking to thousands gathered for the 30th annual Southern California Harvest Sunday, baseball great Darryl Strawberry said he is thankful to have been imprisoned during the early 2000s because he may never have found God otherwise. The eight-time all-star and four-time World Series champion was interviewed by evangelist Greg Laurie on the final night of the 2019 SoCal Harvest Crusade, a three-night evangelistic event at Angel Stadium in Anaheim featuring top Christian music performers and messages from the famed evangelist. Due to his drug and alcohol addiction, Strawberry suffered two failed marriages, a string of arrests, imprisonment and several failed attempts at rehab. On top of that, he was diagnosed with colon cancer in 1998 and had to have part of his colon removed. Despite his troubles, Strawberry has transformed spiritually with the help of his wife, Tracy. Today, he serves as an ordained minister who travels the country preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ and sharing his story of spiritual transformation. Today, Darryl and Tracy Strawberry co-lead Strawberry Ministries, which exists to “restore lives and relationships through the power of God and the process of change by leading the lost to Jesus Christ.” RCA Inspiration celebrates the newly-crowned winner of BET’s “Sunday Best” – Melvin Crispell, III – with the release of his new single “Not the End of Your Story” to Gospel radio. Also available via all major digital retailers, the new radio single marks just the beginning of a new journey for the season nine winner of BET’s inspirational singing competition, who received a recording contract with RCA Inspiration. Crispell, who previously delivered a breathtaking debut performance of “Not the End of Your Story” on the show, will release a forthcoming EP in September. The EP album will feature the single and all new music, which will be released by RCA Inspiration in partnership with BET. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gq5OAcy0yMA Latice Crawford is known for her powerful yet sultry voice and vibrant spirit. Since her groundbreaking win on Sunday Best she has continued to create, minster, and bring her unique style to the Gospel music scene. Crawford is back with a new heart grabbing single titled “Amazing”. It’s a beautiful ballad that speaks of how amazing God is, and coming to a place of understanding the goodness of God in hard times. Listen to this beautiful heart song today! “Amazing” is available today. https://www.dropbox.com/sh/t1icax4wvvd0we9/AAAujz3lnltGEEBcOMupUtrMa?dl=0 JAY-Z’s recent alignment with the National Football League has created division among fans and peers alike. But apparently, Diddy doesn’t see any reason why everyone can’t support both Colin Kaepernick and the Roc Nation mogul. During a recent Twitter spree, Diddy praised Jay and vowed to back the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback at the same time. “Hov is one of the greatest to ever do it, he has been there more than anybody from the hip hop culture, including me,” Diddy wrote. “He’s always been so selfless and fights for other people. We as a people can not be divided and conquered at this time!! “I’m so proud of @Kaepernick7 and the attention he was able to bring and the efforts he continues to make. I’ll continue to support him in every way possible.” Eddie Murphy is coming back to Saturday Night Live. The SNL alum has been booked to host the December 21 edition of the show’s 45th season. The legendary comedian’s return to SNL will be his first time hosting the iconic sketch series in 35 years. Murphy made a brief appearance at the show’s 40th anniversary special in 2015 but has otherwise boycotted it for decades. The comic’s problems with SNL were sparked by a David Spade joke that aired on the show in the ’90s. Murphy, who became one of SNL’s biggest stars ever in the ’80s, took issue with Spade mocking his career in a segment called Hollywood Minute. “They were s****y to me on Saturday Night Live a couple of times after I’d left the show,” Murphy told Rolling Stone in 2011. “They said some s****y things. There was that David Spade sketch [when Spade showed a picture of Murphy around the time of Vampire in Brooklyn and said, ‘Look, children, a falling star’]. I made a stink about it, it became part of the folklore. What really irritated me about it at the time was that it was a career shot. Missy Elliott made history at the 2019 MTV Video Music Awards. The first female Hip-Hop artist inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame will also become the first female rapper to receive the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award. On August 12, MTV revealed Missy would be honored with the Video Vanguard Award at the 2019 VMAs. The announcement comes a year after some reports mistakenly said she would be getting the 2018 edition of the prize, which ended up going to Jennifer Lopez. Missy will only be the fourth Hip Hop act to obtain MTV’s Video Vanguard Award. LL Cool J, the Beastie Boys and Kanye West have previously received the accolade, which was first presented at the inaugural VMAs in 1984. The president of the Virginia State Conference NAACP was abruptly dismissed and the civil rights group’s statewide “Listening Tour” has been halted in changes announced last weekend by the state administrator. Robert N. Barnette Jr. of Hanover County is to immediately take the helm of the state NAACP, replacing the Rev. Kevin L. Chandler of South Boston. Mr. Barnette was serving as the state vice president, as well as president of the Hanover County Branch NAACP. Rev. Chandler was not planning to run for re-election. The change is the work of Gloria Sweet-Love, the Tennessee State NAACP president whom the national NAACP appointed earlier this year to administer the Virginia affiliate. She announced the change Saturday during a meeting of the state NAACP executive committee and then sent a notice to the branches around Virginia on Tuesday. In her news release to the media, Ms. Sweet-Love did not mention her dismissal of two other executive committee members — Jesse Frierson of Richmond, who was removed as chairman of the state NAACP Political Action Committee, and state Treasurer James P. Boyd of Portsmouth. BET crowned Melvin Crispell, III winner of its ninth season of Sunday Best – BET’s inspirational singing competition. The season nine winner will receive a recording contract with RCA Inspiration, a cash prize of $50,000 and the title “Sunday Best.” In partnership with BET, Crispell’s debut single, “Not The End of Your Story” is available now via RCA Inspiration at all major digital outlets. https://www.dropbox.com/sh/iosy90qk0keziei/AADvI1GF4oA5lRsgG0Y3HroAa?dl=0 Erica Campbell has released two solo albums as well as seven albums with her sister as part of the dynamic duo “Mary Mary.” Campbell has received numerous awards and accolades. Her debut solo album “Help” won a 2015 Grammy Award for Best Gospel Album as well as eight Stellar Awards. Campbell is the host of the nationally syndicated radio show "Get Up! Mornings with Erica Campbell.” Erica Campbell is the author of the book “More Than Pretty: Doing the Soul Work that Uncovers Your True Beauty”. It is available for pre-order now, and releases September 24th. In the book, Campbell speaks to women of all shapes and sizes, demonstrating that true beauty is found not in external appearances, but in celebrating the person God made you to be. https://www.dropbox.com/sh/8u9m61uloqp34in/AADkw0lrFjlvNHHDix2_jI2Pa?dl=0 “Black Panther” director Ryan Coogler announced the release date of the much-anticipated follow-up film at D23 in Anaheim, Calif. Saturday. “Black Panther 2” will hit theaters May 6, 2022. “We’re not taking our time, we’re really trying to get it right,” Coogler said of the production schedule. Marvel Studios chief Kevin Feige said Coogler has delivered a treatment, complete with a villain and new title, though neither would give up those details. The date will place “Black Panther 2” as the furthest out announced Marvel film, between “Thor: Love and Thunder” (Nov. 5, 2021) and an unannounced film slated for July 29, 2022 — although whether Marvel will keep that date, just two months after “Black Panther 2,” is up in the air. After making a triumphant return from its four-year hiatus earlier this summer, BET’s inspirational singing competition, “Sunday Best,” crowns a new gospel superstar, the winner of Season 9 is Melvin Crispell, III!!! Jermaine Dolly burst on the scene with the #1 hit "You, a hot follow-up song "Come and Knock on My Door" and a top selling debut album "The Dolly Express." He drops a new single "Pull Us Through" featuring Maranda Curtis. Jermaine Dolly is in The Gospel Spotlight! Hear Jermaine Dolly In His Own Words.....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/jermainedolly_intvw.htm THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW Monday through Thursday at 11 P.M. ET/10C only on TV One. Joining DL in the studio this week Bebe Winans, Monday, August 26, Marlon Wayans, Tuesday, August 27 and actor/singer Algee Smith, Thursday, August 28. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RN454shgecQ&feature=youtu.be Priscilla Shirer is best known as a New York Times best-selling author and Bible teacher, she is simply down to earth. Shirer – the daughter of influential pastor Tony Evans – is starring in the Kendrick Brothers’ new movie Overcomer. This is Shirer’s second movie with the Kendrick brothers, the first being the 2015 film War Room. In the movie, Shirer plays high school principal Olivia Brooks. Shirer shared that she particularly loved this film because it tackles the issue of personal identity, an issue that Shirer knows a lot of people – including herself – struggle with at times. The faith-based film “Overcomer” earned an A+ CinemaScore grade from moviegoers and opened in the Top 5 over the weekend, marking the fourth straight time a movie from filmmakers Alex and Stephen Kendrick has debuted that high. “Overcomer” grossed $8.14 million, landing it in third place behind “Angel Has Fallen” ($21.3 million) and “Good Boys” ($11.6 million) but ahead of “Hobbs and Shaw” ($8.068 million) and “The Lion King” ($8.065 million). The popular film website BoxOfficeMojo.com said “Overcomer” had “outperformed all expectations.” The site had predicted “Overcomer” would gross $5 million. R. Kelly’s legal team has allegedly been contacting both fans and colleagues to raise enough money so that the embattled singer can retain famed defense attorney Tom Mesereau. Sources with direct knowledge claim Kelly’s industry contacts have expressed a desire to help with his legal fees. His attorney noted how Kelly “has a stage persona who is used to having people around him all the time. His life in solitary is now minus TV. No radio. No music. And no books. “He’s also a spiritual guy, has a Bible with him in his cell, but he can’t read it. It’s basically there for comfort,” he added. Black Twitter was rocked over the weekend when Hasbro toy company announced plans to purchase Entertainment One, a multimedia company that owns Death Row Records. Hasbro gave us Mr. Potato Head, Monopoly, G.I. Joe, Transformers, My Little Pony, Power Rangers, and much, much more. Death Row was established in 1991 by Dr. Dre, The D.O.C. and Suge Knight. Back in 2013, eOne spent around $280 million to buy the catalog of Death Row, which declared bankruptcy in 2006. Since being acquired by Hasbro, the massive toy company now owns Dr. Dre’s “The Chronic,” Tupac’s “All Eyez Me”, Snoop Dogg’s “Doggystyle,” and many more iconic hip-hop records from West Coast rappers of the early 90s. Grammy® Award Winner and Global Recording Artist Kirk Whalum is set to release his new album Humanité October 11, 2019. Humanité is unlike any album Kirk has ever made – the sonic synergistic result of encounters made and relationships formed onstage and off with top emerging artists and Top 5 recording artists from around the world. Over a period of three months in 2018,he recorded the soul-drenched, emotional and highly melodic tracks in locations ranging from studios in Jakarta, Tokyo, Paris, Nairobi, Johannesburg and Hastings, to hotel rooms, office buildings and even Kirk's living room in his hometown, Memphis, Tenn. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight! Hear Kirk Whalum In His Own Words.....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/kirk_whalum.htm The 49th Annual Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Conference (CBCF-ALC) September 11 -15. The theme, "400 Years, Our Legacy Our Possibilities" will go down at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center Washington, DC. The Word Network will serve as a sponsor and will air the CBCF-ALC Annual Gospel Extravaganza Concert Thursday night, September 12th at the United House of Prayer for All People. Saturday, September 15th the Word Network will air the ALC prayer breakfast in convention hall D with a performance by gospel artist Yolanda Adams and speaker Rev. Dr. Howard John Wesley. The Gospel Music Association (GMA) announced the first round of all-star performers for the historic 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards, set for October 15 at Lipscomb University's Allen Arena in Nashville. The landmark event will feature performances by CCM standouts TobyMac, Hillsong Worship and gospel artist, Kirk Franklin. The Obama summer playlist has everyone from Drake and Beyonce to Steely Dan and Frank Sinatra. The former president calls it “some new, some old, some fast, some slow.” Barack Obama tweeted 44 songs Saturday that he and his wife, Michelle, have been listening to. They include Drake’s “Too Good,” Steely Dan’s “Reelin’ in the Years” and the Sinatra standard “I’ve Got You Under My Skin.” Other choices are “MOOD 4 EVA,” the “Lion King” song with Beyonce and Jay-Z among other artists; and such oldies as Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl” and Dobie Gray’s “Drift Away.” Last week, Barack Obama offered book recommendations, among them Colson Whitehead’s “The Nickel Boys,” Hilary Mantel’s “Wolf Hall” and the “collected works” of Nobel laureate Toni Morrison, who died Aug. 12. The New York Times recently published an initiative called “The 1619 Project,” a collection of essays, short fiction and poems that attempts to “reframe” the history of the U.S. by demonstrating that slavery is central to the country’s development and still impacts American lives today. While many have welcomed the project, it has also received pushback from some who feel it is either misguided or promoting a false narrative. “In August of 1619, a ship appeared on [the] horizon, near Point Comfort, a coastal port in the British colony of Virginia,” reads the project’s opening statement. “It carried more than 20 enslaved Africans, who were sold to the colonists. No aspect of the country that would be formed here has been untouched by the years of slavery that followed. On the 400th anniversary of this fateful moment, it is finally time to tell our story truthfully.” Vanderbilt University’s Sandra L. Barnes is the 2019 recipient of the Cox-Johnson-Frazier Award from the American Sociological Association. The ASA presented the award to Barnes at its annual meeting in New York City Aug. 11. Barnes is a professor of Human and Organizational Development at Vanderbilt Peabody College of education and human development, with a joint appointment at Vanderbilt Divinity School. She is an affiliate faculty member with the Department of Sociology as well as the African American and Diaspora Studies and Callie House Research Center. She also served as Vanderbilt’s assistant vice chancellor for equity, diversity and inclusion from 2016 to 2018. In a shocking development, Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck announced his retirement from the NFL on Saturday night. Luck, who turns 30 on Sept. 12, had met with Colts owner Jim Irsay earlier to tell him of the decision. The Colts played their third preseason game Saturday night in Indianapolis against the Chicago Bears. Luck already had been ruled out of the game due to an ankle injury, but he was seen on the sideline, laughing and conversing with teammates. After the game, Luck announced the decision during a news conference, saying constant injuries he’s dealt with since 2015 — including the ankle injury this summer — have taken his joy out of the game. He threw for 4,593 yards and 39 touchdowns to win NFL Comeback Player of the Year and lead the Colts back to the playoffs for the first time since 2015, showing he remained one of the top QBs in the league. With the competition officially over, this will be an unforgettable night of fun with the final 2 contestants, Kirk, the judges and an array of special guests as BET concludes the series with an all-star Gospel celebration. And of course, at the end of the show, BET will announce the winner of Sunday Best season 9! The season 9 winner will receive a recording contract with RCA Inspiration, a cash prize of $50,000 and the title “Sunday Best.” BET will crown the season 9 Sunday Best winner on Sunday, August 25th at 8:00PM ET/PT. The finale episode will feature special performances from GRAMMY Award®-winner Tasha Cobbs Leonard, multiple Stellar Award-winner VaShawn Mitchell. Fans will also see soul stirring performances from judges Jonathan McReynolds, Kelly Price and Erica Campbell debuting her new single “Praying & Believing.” Chart-topper Travis Greene has released a new single“Won’t Let Go,” available now at digital music providers and serviced to radio. Greene has also simultaneously released the song’s official video on VEVO. Building anticipation for more new music from the three-time GRAMMY® nominated, Billboard Music Award, Dove and 11-time Stellar Award-winning artist, songwriter, and producer, “Won’t Let Go” marks the first single off his upcoming album Broken Record. Delivering a gripping tune that have been hallmarks of his hits, Greene continues to be a powerful connector, building bridges to share the universal love of Christ, giving strength and comfort that God’s love is always present in our lives, carrying us through our journeys and struggles, from day into night. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09INLWk9OnY Chart-topper Koryn Hawthorne delivers new music with her latest song “Enough” – featured in the new Affirm Films and Provident Films major motion picture release Overcomer, out nationwide in theatres now. Hawthorne packs a punch with her voice on “Enough,” creating a dynamic anthem providing motivation and strength to believe in yourself and keep going, knowing God’s love is there. Fresh off a national summer tour performing on Kirk Franklin’s LONG LIVE LOVE Tour, and garnering multiple 2019 Dove Awards nominations for her chart-topping album Unstoppableand songs, the GRAMMY®-nominated, Billboard Music Award, NAACP Image Award, Stellar and Dove Award-winning songstress continues to push the envelope as an artist and songwriter with “Enough.” “Enough” is part of the original motion picture soundtrack for Overcomer, available now. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kqavwKIvtk4 It’s New Music Friday and we’ve got the much-awaited new album from Gene Moore—Tunnel Vision! This album features tracks to keep you uplifted and encouraged, including the hit single “Won’t Be Moved” (watch the official music video below), the passionate “Ask For Rain” and the upbeat “Take Care.” https://us.umusic-online.com/4YUT-KFX-4SQSQ-C1KD-1/c.aspx Damita drop new single, entitled "RECOVERY"!!! Damita is best known, not only for her vast sound that explores both contemporary, urban, soul and rock, but her roots stem deeply in worship. As an ordained minister of the gospel she recognizes that no matter how relevant or mainstream her music may go, her message and the spirit in which her ministry of music is delivered will always be led by Christ and Him alone. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Agk8xWkMW1w&feature=youtu.be Acclaimed producer, songwriter, arranger and musician Dana Soréy celebrates three Dove Award nominations this year, with nods for the upcoming 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards in the categories of Producer of the Year,Contemporary Gospel Album of the Year as a producer on Jason Nelson’s The Answer, and Traditional Gospel Song of the Year as a songwriter on Maranda Curtis ’hit “I’m All In.” Dana Soréy’s three nominations are an added blessing on top of an ongoing busy slate and string of successes for the GRAMMY®-nominee and Dove Award winner. He has remained an integral collaborator and leader, crafting the sound for new recording artists and renowned gospel stars as well as curating hit collections, with his production and songwriting work including multiple #1 Gospel Albums for Maranda Curtis, Jason Nelson, Anthony Brown and group therAPy, GRAMMY®-nominated albums from Marvin Sapp, and Tye Tribbett and GA, the collections WOW Gospel 2015 and WOW Gospel 2013, and a Top 4 Gospel debut for Gene Moore’s 2017 debut album The Future. THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE WELCOMES A TALENTED LINEUP OF ACTORS INCLUDING BILL DUKE, KIM COLES, KRIS D. LOFTON, THE CAST OF GREENLEAF and MANY MORE! Stellar Award-winning, two-time GRAMMY® and Dove Award-nominated hitmaker, songwriter and worship leader William Murphy, releases the live performance video for “Settle Here,” showcasing the experience of Murphy and his singers sharing in worship with the packed crowd at his album’s live recording. The chart-topping hit single from his #1 Gospel album, Settle Here, Murphy’s song and album just recently garnered two Dove Award nominations for the 2019 show this fall, with the single “Settle Here” (Pt. 1) nominated for Gospel Worship Recorded Song of the Year, and the album nominated for Gospel Worship Album of the Year. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBsUrBQVUjQ On Thursday, August 15th fourteen-time GRAMMY®-winning artist/songwriter/producer, Kirk Franklin, was honored with a Billionaire plaque from Pandora. The music streaming company surprised Franklin by presenting him with the prestigious award on-stage at the Los Angeles stop of his LONG LIVE LOVE TOUR. Franklin was moved by the honor. He says, “It is truly humbling that the music God let me borrow has touched so many people, and that they still choose to listen with so many incredible gospel artists out there.” This honor, which has only been bestowed upon a small group of artists, commemorates Franklin having received over 1.6 billion streams on the platform. With this achievement, he also became the first gospel music artist to reach this milestone. Franklin being inducted into Pandora’s “Billionaires club,” comes on the heels of the release of his thirteenth studio album, LONG LIVE LOVE May 31st. The album has been atop the Top Gospel Albums chart for ten consecutive weeks and spawned the smash hit, “Love Theory,” which has been #1 on the Hot Gospel Songs chart for 28 straight weeks. Additionally, he made history with LONG LIVE LOVE, becoming the first artist to top all five of Billboard’s gospel charts simultaneously. Franklin, who has his own gospel music channel on SiriusXM, Kirk Franklin’s Praise, wrapped up the successful LONG LIVE LOVE TOUR with the concert in LA. And the finale of Sunday Best on BET, which he hosts, will air on August 25th. Don't miss THE AFRICAN PRIDE GOSPEL SUPERFEST airing on TV One this Sunday, August 25, 2019 at 7 p.m. ET/6C. Hosted by Wendy Raquel Robinson, the one-hour telecast will feature a musical celebration honoring Pastor Donnie McClurkin with guest performances by Deitrick Haddon, Sensere, J. Moss, Tye Tribbett, The Shelby 5, Isabel Davis, Micah Stampley, Byron Cage, Demetrius West & JP and many more. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhJZ4aMHA6g&feature=youtu.be New artist and Gospel Powerhouse singer Josh Copeland makes his Gospel music solo debut with the release of his new single and EP - A Winans classic, "Uphold Me" which is available for purchase now via iTunes http://smarturl.it/JCUpholdMe . Seems Barack and Michelle Obama are enjoying their Summer on Martha’s Vineyard so much they’ve decided to put in a bid to buy the estate owned by Boston Celtics owner Wyc Grousbeck, it is on the market for $14.85 million and features seven bedrooms and nine bathrooms inside the 7000 sq ft main residence. Not only would they get the main house, but it also comes with 29 beachfront acres, a pool, chef’s kitchen, outdoor fireplace, and two guest wings. Also the beachfront is private and comes with a boathouse. According to TMZ, the estate is currently in escrow and it’s not a done deal just yet. Supposedly, there are contingencies so it’s possible it could fall apart, but so far it’s looking good. Grousbeck had the property on the market for four years, first listing it in 2015 for $22.5 million. The street in front of Vanderbilt’s Memorial Gymnasium is being renamed “Perry Wallace Way” to honor the first black basketball player on scholarship in the Southeastern Conference. Vanderbilt announced Wednesday that the portion of 25th Avenue South will be renamed ceremonially to honor Wallace, who died Dec. 1, 2017. Interim Chancellor Susan R. Wente says Vanderbilt is deeply thankful for the help celebrating Wallace’s legacy as a trailblazer. Wallace became the first black to play in a varsity game Dec. 2, 1967, in a game at Southern Methodist, and he made his SEC debut two days later at Memorial Gym against Auburn. He was captain of the team when he graduated in 1970. Dr. James Mable Jr. drop a beautiful new song "I'm Free." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQh1frVuqnw 5X GRAMMY winner, Erica Campbell, returns with “Praying And Believing.” Campbell will debut the song with a show-stopping performance on the season finale of BET’s Sunday Best this Sunday, August 25, 8/7c and the single will then be available on all digital platforms. This powerful song is exactly what is needed for today’s current climate. With tragedy, injustice, hurt and hate, “Praying And Believing” is the perfect salve for the country’s collective wounds. The poignant tune, written and produced by Erica and Warryn Campbell along with Dontae Winslow, uplifts the listener in every way. “Praying And Believing” is the introduction single to the forthcoming new compilation album WARRYN CAMPBELL PRESENTS MY BLOCK INC. The compilation album will feature all new music from Jason McGee & The Choir, MC Lyte, Lena Byrd Miles, JoiStaRR, The Walls Group and more, and will be released on all digital outlets on September 27, 2019. Viral single, “Blessings on Blessings” by Anthony Brown & group therAPy is nominated for GMA Dove Awards Contemporary Gospel/Urban Recorded Song of the Year, and currently ranks #3 on the Gospel Airplay chart and Hot Gospel Songs chart. “Blessings on Blessings” was named among the nominees for Contemporary Gospel/Urban Recorded Song of the year during the official announcement for the 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards via Facebook ‘Live.’ ELEMENTS is the top Gospel album of the week hitting the top slots on two charts this week. VaShawn Mitchell’s exceptional 9th album entered in the Number 1 on the Top Gospel Albums Sales chart; and Number 2 on Top Gospel Albums chart (Gospel consumption). The chart-topper continues to be led by the popular single “God Can Do Anything” which was one of the most-added songs at radio this week, and the official video has over 1 million views on YouTube. Fans in the Atlanta-area can also connect with VaShawn this Saturday, August 24, for a live performance, and album signing at DBS Sounds, Riverdale, GA. Mitchell will also perform on the anticipated season finale of BET’s Sunday Best this Sunday, August 25 at 8/7c. The Gospel Music Association (GMA) announced the nominees for the 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards, which was exclusively announced via Facebook ‘Live’ and co-hosted by 22-year-old Dove Award-winning singer and songwriter Jekalyn Carr along with award-winning legendary Christian artists Natalie Grant and Karen Peck. Additionally, the three-time GRAMMY and two-time Billboard Music Award nominee received two nominations in the categories of Gospel Artist of the Year and Traditional Gospel Recorded Song of the Year for her chart climbing radio single “I See Miracles.” The 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards will go down Tuesday, October 15, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) will exclusively air the show on Sunday, October 20, 8 p.m. EST / 5 p.m. PST. Voting for the final winners will run August 21 through August 28. When the late Bishop Eddie Long’s named successor, Bishop Stephen A. Davis, announced his resignation from New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, Georgia, after 16 months on the job, he cited the need to attend to his family and church in Alabama. Last Wednesday during an altar call at New Birth Birmingham — a church planted under the spiritual guidance of Long — Davis revealed he left his spiritual father’s congregation because of the politics of corrupt leaders he described as “fools.” “They didn’t say anything over there in Georgia when I gave $180,000. I worked the entire 16 months for free. Didn’t take a dime. Paid for my own condo for six months. Kept the debt off the Long family, $3,500 a month that they didn’t have to pay on Bishop Long’s condo. I paid it. I took the car back that I had given him as a gift, taking the pressure off the Long family. I gave $85,000 personally. They allowed wicked men to lead them. They lost their God sent. Now they have to settle for hirelings,” Davis said.After Davis left the church, controversial Pastor Jamal Bryant was selected to lead New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Four college students were wounded when a gunman opened fire into a crowd of 200 people outside a library near Clark Atlanta University and then escaped in the chaos, authorities said. All four injured women were in stable condition after the gunfire, which happened shortly after 10:30 p.m. Tuesday. None of their injuries were life-threatening, Atlanta police said. The shooter had not yet been apprehended Wednesday morning. The block party was celebrating the end of orientation for new students. On Wednesday, the first day of classes, there was a heavy security presence on campus and in front of the library. A couple of Atlanta police officers stood on a corner across the street. On Tuesday night, an argument broke out between two parties and someone opened fire, investigators said. Video aired by WXIA-TV shows dozens of students running frantically after the gunshots were heard. The Kendrick brothers’ film making tandem may have another successful movie on their hands. Their newest film Overcomer (PG) – which releases in theaters this weekend – is exceeding Breakthrough in advance ticket sales on Fandango’s platforms, according to Harry Medved, Fandango’s senior director of public relations. Both are faith-based films. Alex and Stephen Kendrick’s last film, War Room (2015), climbed to No. 1 on its second weekend. It grossed $11.3 million on its first weekend and $9.4 million the following week. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BGyieGVn4P4 When Michael B. Jordan first met with “Moonlight” writer Tarell Alvin McCraney, the two surprisingly discovered through an emotional conversation that both had more in common than they realized. McCraney might jokingly attest, but Jordan said during a recent interview that their lengthy talk years ago about creating a new television project “ended in tears.” That’s when the “Creed” and “Black Panther” star knew he wanted to work with McCraney to develop their drama series “David Makes Man,” which airs Wednesdays on Oprah Winfrey’s OWN. “David Makes Man” is partially based on McCraney’s upbringing. The series follows 14-year-old David, played by Akili McDowell, who tries to juggle relationships between his magnet school friends and drug dealers in his South Florida impoverished neighborhood. The story explores David’s childhood trauma after the death of his close friend and mentor, Sky, who was a drug dealer. His former drug-addict mother also relies on him to find a way out of poverty through higher education. It's a Farewell Celebration Banquet to honor Bishop Marvin Sapp Monday September 9, 2019 at the JW Marriott International Ballroom Grand Rapids. Mi. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDZuKnIfNSc&feature=youtu.be Gospel music star James Fortune joins Rock City Church as Creative Pastor. He joins the team as the church has joined forces with his former label Blacksmoke Music for Pastor Mike Jr’s new track BIG, which recently hit the top 10 Gospel Sales Chart. Fortune has a long history of charting as well. In 2005, Fortune and his group F.I.Y.A.’s debut album "You Survived" and lead single, of the same name, peaked at #2 on the R&B Gospel singles chart. He was also nominated for two GRAMMY awards for Identity and held the #1 spot on the gospel chart for 29 weeks for the powerful single "I Trust You." R. Kelly has been accused by multiple women of knowingly infecting them with an incurable STD, and now the Feds seem to be supporting these accusations. According to Bossip, investigators have come through with receipts: In an Aug. 15 letter to Kelly’s lawyers, Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Geddes said her office had Kelly’s health and medical records from Walgreens, University Health Systems and Urgent Care, adding weight to the claim that Kelly had knowingly infected at least one woman with the herpes virus. Kelly’s lawyers have denied that he gave the alleged victim the incurable illness, and contended that the government has “zero evidence” that he did. Besides Kelly’s medical information, Geddes said the government had receipts for hotel stays, Ubers, bank records for both Kelly and his employees and airline receipts for Kelly and his alleged victims that prove he transported them from state to state. National Recording Artist, Nationally Syndicated Radio Host, Actress, Author, Songwriter, Comedian, Mentor, Entrepreneur, Speaker and Artist Darlene McCoy drops new song "Walk.".It is evident that we have not witnessed all that God has placed behind this bright shining star of a woman. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iIZBtkHMpB0&feature=youtu.be Oft-suspended wide receiver Josh Gordon returned to the New England Patriots’ practice field on Monday without pads and without saying when he might be able to play again. Gordon was seen stretching on the field during the portion of the team’s workout that was open to the media. In the locker room before practice, he declined a request for an interview. The Patriots placed Gordon on the non-football injury list Sunday, two days after the NFL reinstated him from an indefinite suspension that cost him the final three games of the 2018 regular season and the team’s Super Bowl run. Commissioner Roger Goodell said Gordon could participate in team meetings, conditioning and individual workouts while working himself back into shape. Gordon did not play in Saturday’s exhibition game against the Tennessee Titans and will not be allowed to play in Thursday night’s game against the Carolina Panthers because he hasn’t had enough time to practice with the team, the league said. Patriots coach Bill Belichick declined to comment on Gordon’s status on Monday. Teammates said they were glad to have him back. After making a triumphant return from its four-year hiatus earlier this summer, BET's inspirational singing competition, "Sunday Best,"moves closer to crowning a new gospel superstar. Last night, the Grammy Award-winning songstress, Fantasia heated up the stage with a debut performance of "Looking For You," from her forthcoming album "Sketchbook." She later joined the judge's panel, kicking off an emotional night full of surprises which ended with Joshua Copeland and Melvin Crispell, III moving forward to the finale episode airing August 25, 2019 at 8PM ET/PT. Fans are now encouraged to vote for their favorite contestant at: BET.com/VoteSundayBest. Challenged with connecting with their inner selves this week, each contestant had to perform twice. For the first performance, the contestants chose a personal song and Kirk surprised them with a close family member for motivation. Joshua selected Tasha Cobbs "I'm Getting Ready," while Melvin, performed Hezekiah Walker's "Wonderful Is Your Name" written by his late father Melvin Crispell II. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cHQc3CCPL5I The Rev. Dr. Timothy Stewart, PNBC 58th president, kicked off the 58th Annual Session at the Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. Raphael G. Warnock, pastor, in the same church where King had been the pastor when the Progressive National Baptist Convention was founded. The service was filled with PNBC delegates and church members and Stewart started his sermon with explaining his theme, “In Pursuit Of Wholeness, Recovery of the Sacred,” (John 5:1-150. He then preached his first sermon at the Annual Session. The Business of PNBC started on Monday with Executive Committee and Board Meeting, with the Evening Mission Night Theme focusing the convention major comment to Mission, the message was given by Dr. Ngwedla Paul Msisa, President, Baptist World Alliance. BET Networks and Beverly Bond, CEO, Executive Producer and Creator of BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® are excited to announce Emmy-nominated actress, Niecy Nash as host of The 2019 BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® Awards on BET. This year’s celebration will tape Sunday, August 25, 2019 at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark, NJ. The broadcast will premiere Sunday, September 8, 2019 at 8:00 P.M. ET/PT on BET. The 2019 star-studded line up of celebrants include Golden Globe winner and Oscar nominated actress, director, and producer Angela Bassett (Icon Award), Oscar, Golden Globe, and Emmy-winning actress and director Regina King (Star Power Award), GRAMMY-Award? winning singer/songwriter Ciara (Rock Star Award), Academy Award and Emmy Award-nominated producer and industry trailblazer Debra Martin Chase(Shot Caller Award) two-time GRAMMY Award-winning musician H.E.R. (Young Gifted and Black Award), and activists The Mothers of The Movement Sybrina Fulton, Geneva Reed Veal, Gwen Carr, Lucy McBath, Maria Hamilton and Cleopatra Pendleton-Cowley (Community Change Agent Award). Ava DuVernay’s “When They See Us” earned four wins from the African American Film Critics Association, who today, announced the winners of its upcoming AAFCA TV Honors. The highly popular Netflix limited series about the infamous Central Park rape case that resulted in the arrest and false imprisonment of five Black youths, received the following group awards: Best Limited Series, Best Ensemble, Best Writing and Breakthrough Performance for Jharrel Jerome who plays Korey Wise in the series. Other big wins went to the popular Starz drama “Power,” which begins its sixth and final season August 25th, and the CBS comedy, “The Neighborhood” starring Cedric the Entertainer and Tichina Arnold now entering its second season. Angela Bassett and Sterling K. Brown earned Best Performance Female and Male awards for their respective portrayals in the series “9-1-1” on Fox and “This Is Us” on NBC. Former University of Texas football star Cedric Benson has died at the age of 36, his brother confirmed on Facebook. The running back died in Austin Sunday morning, according to his family and multiple online reports. Former Texas coach Mack Brown commented on an Instagram post dedicated to Benson saying, “We lost a great one way too soon. #RIP” Benson made a name for himself during his college career with the Longhorns. He finished at UT with 5,540 rushing yards, which is second in Longhorns program history. With a simple “We do,” Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson announced his wedding to his longtime girlfriend on Instagram. A photo of the movie star and Lauren Hashian was posted on the social media site. Both were wearing white, and they were standing overlooking the ocean. The post said the date of their apparent nuptials was Sunday, in Hawaii. The couple have been dating for several years and have two young daughters. Johnson also has a teenage daughter from a previous marriage. Johnson has a lot to celebrate this month. His movie “Hobbs and Shaw” has been a box office success since being released earlier in August. Americas Got Talent alumni, Alex Boyé, has gained over 1 billion views on YouTube, and is now taking things to a whole new level of stardom with the release of Coming To Amerika! The album produced by Grammy Award winning producers 'Blac Elvis' and Neff-U and executive produced by Randy Jackson will be released by BFD via The Orchard. The inspiration for the album title is inspired by his own life and journey from England to America. He received a standing ovation when he performed on the 10th season of NBC’s America’s Got Talent. His unique electric performance of Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off” sung with an African twist, brought the audience to their feet, leaving judge Howie Mandel to state, “in my 6 years of judging this show, this is the best musical act I’ve seen!” THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW airs Monday through Thursday at 11 P.M. ET/10C only on TV One. Joining DL this week is comedian/actor Larry Wilmore, Monday, August 19, comedian/actor Alonzo Bodden, Tuesday, August 20, comedian Aida Rodriguez, Wednesday, August 21 and former professional basketball player Jayson Williams, Thursday, August 22. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uc8nHoZpkQc&feature=youtu.be Motown Gospel honors 60 years of Motown with the release of the digital compilation Hitsville: A Motown Gospel Celebration, available with lyric videos for each classic song available on Motown Gospel’s YouTube Channel. Motown Gospel joins this year’s worldwide celebration of Motown by paying homage to the rich legacy and enduring impact of its sister label. The compilation project is a prelude to Motown’s journey and musical legacy that will be reflected in the upcoming documentary, Hitsville: The Making of Motown, premiering on Showtime on Saturday, August 24, 2019 at 9pm ET/PT. The five-track project features classic songs covered by some of Motown Gospel’s top artists, including Brian Courtney Wilson’s soulful cover of Marvin Gaye’s “Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler),” Gene Moore’s soul-soothing rendition of the Jackson 5’s “Never Can Say Goodbye,” Jerard & Jovaun’s groovy soul version of Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell’s “You’re All I Need To Get By,” and Lexi’s uplifting execution of Michael Jackson’s “I Wanna Be Where You Are.” As a special bonus, Evvie McKinney, winner of FOX’s hit TV singing competition The Four, graces the project as a special guest artist with her powerful and rousing delivery of Stevie Wonder’s “Sign, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours).” Celebrating the eternal influence of Gospel on R&B/Soul music, the compelling Hitsville: A Motown Gospel Celebration marries the two genres with updated, gospel-soul renditions of Motown classics. Robin Thede knew plenty of talented African-American female comedians, but only a few were getting hired on popular TV comedy shows such as “Saturday Night Live” and “Mad TV.” So, Thede decided to create her own show featuring some of the industry’s funniest black women. The comic-writer-producer-actress is breaking new ground with her HBO comedy series “A Black Lady Sketch Show,” which airs Friday nights. The six-episode series offers sketches written and performed by an all-black female cast. It stars Thede, Ashley Nicole Black, Gabrielle Dennis and Quinta Brunson. Guests, mostly black women, include Angela Bassett, Kelly Rowland, Marsai Martin, Lena Waithe, Patti LaBelle and Natasha Rothwell. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Multiple Stellar Award nominated group Judah Band returns with a new single, “I Believe” available at all major digital retailers now. Judah Band made waves at Gospel radio and on the Gospel music scene in 2018 with its debut single, “For My Good,” and is widely known now as “one to watch.” The energetic, spirit-filled and fashion forward group follows up with “I Believe.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-yaN2wl440&feature=youtu.be The Gospel Music Association (GMA) announced nominees for the 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards. Entertainment One (“eOne”) received five nominations across various categories. Nominees: “Make Room”– Jonathan McReynolds, “I Made It Out”– John P. Kee, “You’re Doing It All Again”– Todd Dulaney, Declarations– Jonathan Nelson and To Africa With Love – Todd Dulaney. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com JAKE AND JAZZ BRING SOUTH AFRICAN VIBES TO LIFE ON THE SEASON FINALE OF LIVING BY DESIGN WITH JAKE AND JAZZ. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9p6Og_v1FeM&feature=youtu.be This week, THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE WELCOMES SOCIAL MEDIA SENSATION KWAY, ACTRESS SHERYL LEE RALPH, Sunday's Best Finalists, THE ATLANTA MUSIC PROJECT, David Oyelowo, Champ Bailey and James Fortune. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EW4hRWxFsMk&feature=youtu.be JAY-Z and Will Smith are expanding their already impressive business portfolios by investing in the Airbnb-like camping app Hipcamp. The company announced on Thursday that it has taken $25 million in its latest round of fundraising, and among those investors is JAY-Z’s Marcy Venture Partners and Will Smith’s Dreamers VC fund. “Hipcamp is on the forefront of culture, creating meaningful and joyful experiences with the outdoors,” said Marcy Venture Partners co-founder Larry Marcus. “While mobile devices and technology enables their marketplace of unique camping sites, Hipcamp experiences provide a welcome respite from those very devices. Their ethos of creating an inclusive community that values the environment, preservation, and the great outdoors makes them an ideal partner to our firm. We are thrilled to be partnered with Alyssa and the team to help grow their business.” Beyonce and Nipsey Hussle’s longtime partner Lauren London were among the celebs who posted tributes to the slain rapper and philanthropist on what would have been his 34th birthday Thursday. On Thursday, Beyonce, shared a black-and-white portrait of Nipsey on Instagram along with the quote: “The marathon will be televised for N.I.P. ’cause true kings don’t die, we multiply, peace. Happy Birthday in paradise.” Hussle died on March 31 after being gunned down outside of his Marathon clothing store in Los Angeles. Eric Holder, accused of killing Nipsey, has pleaded not guilty to murder. The top 3 singers must connect with their inner selves and perform twice. A close family member surprises each contestant and assists in choosing a personal song. Then the competitors hit the studio with Makeba Riddick-Woods to pen an original song. At the end, one is eliminated and viewer voting commenced to determine which of the final 2 will be crowned next week the winner of Season 9 (S9) Sunday Best. GRAMMY Award Winner & American Idol Winner Fantasia will performs new song "Looking For You" + Joins the Judges Panel. "Exciting plans are underway for multiple award- winning artist Donnie McClurkin to return to London for a special celebration. Twenty years ago the trailblazer made a gutsy decision to do an international live recording on the heels of his gold-selling, self-titled solo debut album, "Donnie McClurkin." Despite the naysayers, he went on to record Live in London and More… at the historic Fairfield Hall in Croydon, England in 1999. Now years later, UK's #1 radio station Premier Gospel and The New Wine Church located at Gateway House, in East London will host anniversary concerts on Friday, October 18 and Saturday, October 19. Pastor Marvin L. Winans and the Perfecting Church Choir shined brightly as musical guests at the recent Democratic Presidential Debates held at the Fox Theater in Detroit, Michigan. Winans created special arrangements of, "America the Beautiful" and the "National Anthem" that was performed and aired live on CNN. White House correspondent April Ryan tweeted, "What an incredible rendition of "America the Beautiful," it mixed both the classical choral styles with the soul of the Black church experience. Bravo!" Pastor Winans has now turned his attention to the Perfecting Church 30 Year Celebration and Gala on Friday, October 11. The black tie affair is going down at the historic Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight! Hear Pastor Marvin Winans In His Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/marvin_winans_intvw.htm TV One and CLEO TV, in partnership with Philo, presented a special REPRESENT cocktail reception during the 2019 National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Convention Saturday, August 10 at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa. Hosted by TV One/CLEO TV General Manager Michelle Rice the event honored Sarah Glover - the first two-term president in the history of the NABJ - with a Legacy of Service Award for her exemplary leadership, support and excellence in journalism. Rice was also a featured panelist on the NABJ's W.E.B. DUBOIS PLENARY PANEL "Intersection of Race, Culture and Entertainment." Moderated by Kelley Carter of ESPN's The Undefeated, the panel also featured Actor/Activist, Hill Harper; General Manager, Aspire TV Melissa Ingram; Movie Producer, Hadeel Reda; and 2019 Miss America, Nia Franklin. The Gospel Music Association (GMA) announced today the nominees for the 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards, revealed exclusively on Facebook 'Live' with the help of Natalie Grant, Jekalyn Carr and Karen Peck. Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) will exclusively air the show Sunday, October 20, 8 p.m. EST / 5 p.m. PST. Voting for the final winners will run August 21 through August 28. Lauren Daigle leads artist nominations with six, followed by for KING & COUNTRY and Kirk Franklin with five. Crowder, Phil Wickham, Tasha Cobbs Leonard and TobyMac each honored with four nods. Top nominated writer/producer Wayne Haun scored 10 nominations. Tyscot Records have earned a collective five Dove Award nominations in the forthcoming 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards going down October 15, 2019 at Lipscomb University’s Allen Arena in Nashville, TN. Kelontae Gavin snagged a nod as New Artist of the Year. Anthony Brown & group therAPy, Casey J, Bishop Leonard Scott and Earl Bynum garnered nominations. Colin Kaepernick’s girlfriend is speaking out following the controversy surrounding the NFL signing an entertainment and social justice partnership with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation. The rapper and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell held a press conference yesterday at Roc Nation’s offices to discuss the partnership. Jay-Z and Goodell claimed they had conversations with Kaepernick prior to forming the partnership. Kaepernick’s girlfriend, Nessa, has called out Jay-Z for lying about having spoke to her man. Nessa twitted, THIS is a lie. COLIN never spoke to Jay-Z and NFL ahead of that deal being done. They NEVER included him in any discussion ???? https://twitter.com/tmz/status/1161702038389968896?s=21 …Kaepernick’s former teammate Eric Reid, also blasted Jay on Twitter about the NFL deal because Colin is not part of it. For years, producer Kenya Barris and his wife, Dr. Rania “Rainbow” Barris’ relationship helped inspire plotlines on Black-ish, Barris’ acclaimed and widely-watched ABC sitcom. Now, the two are parting ways. The Associated Press reports Barris filed for divorce last Friday in Los Angeles Superior Court, on what was his 45th birthday. The couple, married since 1999, have six kids together, and their relationship served as inspiration for Andre “Dre” Johnson (Anthony Anderson) and Rainbow “Bow” Johnson’s (Tracee Ellis Ross) marriage on Black-ish. As one might expect in any long marriage, the Barrises have also weathered their share of trials: Dr. Barris, an anesthesiologist, previously filed for divorce in 2014, but the couple was able to reconcile and she withdrew her request the following year. RCA Inspiration celebrates fifteen Dove Award nominations this year, with the full list of nominees just unveiled for the upcoming 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards, going down in October. Nine artists are nominated, with hit makers Kirk Franklin, Travis Greene, Koryn Hawthorne, Israel Houghton, Le’Andria Johnson, Donald Lawrence, William Murphy, Jason Nelson, and Marvin Sapp hailed in nine categories for their acclaimed releases over the preceding year. Garnering four nods in the top categories of Song of the Year and Gospel Artist of the Year, the remaining eleven Dove Award nominations span all the Gospel categories: Contemporary Gospel Recorded Song of the Year, Traditional Gospel Recorded Song of the Year (with a separate writer’s nod for Franklin), Gospel Worship Recorded Song of the Year, Contemporary Gospel Album of the Year, Traditional Gospel Album of the Year, Gospel Worship Album of the Year, as well as Short Form Video of the Year. Additionally, Franklin received a nod in the category of Contemporary Gospel Album of the Year, as a producer on Tori Kelly’s album, Hiding Place. Each year the Gospel Music Association’s (GMA) Dove Awards are the biggest night, marking a milestone 50th anniversary this year celebrating the excellent artistry and successes across all varieties of Christian and Gospel music in the world, including Pop/Contemporary, Rap/Hip Hop, Traditional and Contemporary Gospel, Spanish Language, Worship, Bluegrass/Country/Roots, and more. The full list of RCA Inspiration’s GMA Dove Awards nominations is below. The 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards will be held Tuesday, October 15th, 2019 in Nashville, TN, and air on Sunday, October 20th, 2019 on TBN. RCA Inspiration 2019 GMA Dove Awards nominations: SONG OF THE YEAR Koryn Hawthorne, “Won’t He Do It” GOSPEL ARTIST OF THE YEAR Kirk Franklin (Fo Yo Soul/RCA) Koryn Hawthorne Travis Greene CONTEMPORARY GOSPEL RECORDED SONG OF THE YEAR Kirk Franklin, “Love Theory” (Fo Yo Soul/RCA) Koryn Hawthorne, “Unstoppable” TRADITIONAL GOSPEL RECORDED SONG OF THE YEAR Donald Lawrence Presents The Tri-City Singers, “Deliver Me (This Is My Exodus)” feat. Le’Andria Johnson Marvin Sapp, “Kind God” (writer: Kirk Franklin) GOSPEL WORSHIP RECORDED SONG OF THE YEAR William Murphy, “Settle Here” CONTEMPORARY GOSPEL ALBUM OF THE YEAR Israel Houghton, Road to DeMaskUs Jason Nelson, The Answer Koryn Hawthorne, Unstoppable TRADITIONAL GOSPEL ALBUM OF THE YEAR Donald Lawrence Presents The Tri-City Singers, Goshen GOSPEL WORSHIP ALBUM OF THE YEAR William Murphy, Settle Here Roc Nation, the entertainment company founded by rapper and businessman Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, is entering into a multiyear partnership with the NFL to enhance the NFL’s live game experiences and to amplify the league’s social justice efforts. As part of the agreement, Roc Nation will advise on the selection of artists for major NFL performances like the Super Bowl. A major component of the partnership will be to nurture and strengthen community through football and music, including through the NFL’s Inspire Change initiative. The NFL formally launched the Inspire Change initiative in early 2019, after more than two years of work with NFL players, with the goal of creating positive change in communities across the country. Through this initiative, NFL teams and the league office work with the Players Coalition and other NFL players to support programs and initiatives that reduce barriers to opportunity, with a focus on three priority areas: education and economic advancement; police and community relations; and criminal justice reform. Roc Nation also will work with the NFL to create and distribute content across multiple music streaming services for a variety of initiatives. Chicago's Grammy® Award winning Thompson Community Singers, or the Tommies, dominated the gospel music airwaves from 1982 through 2000 when they had reigned as America's No. 1 choir with massive radio hits like"For the Good of Them" and"Safe in His Arms" which still pulls 50,000 streams a week – 30 years after its initial release. After the death of its founder, Rev. Milton Brunson, the choir disbanded in 2000. Now, they are back with a soul-stirring concert film, The Tommies Reunion , which is now available on DVD. The sold-out program took place at New Faith Baptist Church in Matteson, IL on a hot, rainy Monday night in August of 2016. With over 40 singers and musicians – ranging in age from 32 to 79, the majority of them from the choir's heyday alongside a handful of newcomers, they charmed the audience with their powerful voices. TV One will air THE AFRICAN PRIDE GOSPEL SUPERFEST Sunday, August 25, 2019 7 p.m. ET/6C. Held at the Schuster Performing Arts Center in Dayton, Ohio, the 19th annual celebration will bring together gospel recording artists and celebrities for one of America's most anticipated television events in urban gospel. Hosted by film and television star Wendy Raquel Robinson, the one-hour telecast will feature a musical celebration honoring Pastor Donnie McClurkin with guest performances by Deitrick Haddon, Sensere, J. Moss, Tye Tribbett, The Shelby 5, Isabel Davis, Micah Stampley, Byron Cage, Demetrius West & JP and many more. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ckboJuLMwTQ&feature=youtu.be Popular Christian rapper Lecrae revealed who his great grandmother’s slave owner was. “Just found the slave Master that bought my 3rd Great grandmother at 9 years old from Africa,” the Reach Records founder tweeted Monday. “Sobering,” he ended the post. The information was pulled from an 1860 federal census in Arkansas. Thousands of people liked and commented on the tweet, including Christian rapper THI’SL who revealed that he too recently discovered that he was born on a plantation. The public records are “Painful, Yet gives us some sort of identity and answers from our past,” NFL star Benjamin Watson tweeted Lecrae. “We are a strong people. To survive what this country has done to us and still be standing. Grace and truth.” Lecrae is known as a trailblazer in Christian hip-hop and paved a path for himself into the mainstream market. But with success came a lot of public criticism, disenchantment and a bout with depression. Dr. Joel McLeod, Chancellor of the Next Dimension University, an accredited Bible College, is pleased to announce the 2019 Commencement and Awards Ceremony Weekend. Celebrating 12 years of Academic Excellence at N.D.U. The Commencement goes down Saturday August 17th at 2:00 p.m. West Angeles Cathedral, Los Angeles, CA. This year’s theme: Doing it Big in God. This year Next Dimension University will honor Dr. Frederick K.C. Price with the Living Legend Award. Dr. Bishop Kenneth Ulmer, of Faithful Central Church, will give the commencement address. The class of 2019 will graduate 200 students and will honor Kurt Carr, Bill Duke, Marla Gibbs, Dina Andrews, Paul Jackson, Jr., Vickie Mack Latillade, Sheilah Belle, Dawnn Lewis, Lynette Hawkins Stephens, Tim Bishop Brown, Edna Sims and many others. NDU Alumni and Past Honorees have included; Fred Hammond, Donald Lawrence, Yolanda Adams, Randall Cunningham, Judge Mablean, Janet’ Dubois, Judy Jacobs, Bishop Noel Jones, Cecil Murry, Jack Hayford and many more. Some teenage phenoms, such as LeBron James, live up to the insane hype assigned to them, while others end up like Freddy Adu. The world will be watching to see how 15-year-old hoopster Emoni Bates handles the pressure — because he’s already being compared to one of the best ever. “In the best freshman conversation, he’s 1,” a veteran of the grassroots basketball scene told ESPN.com. “He’s better than LeBron as a freshman. Bron was good, real good. Emoni is dominant.” Bates, a native of Ypsilanti, Mich., is a 6-foot-8 forward ranked as the top prospect in the class of 2022. As another youth basketball observer explained to ESPN, Bates has “size, skill, killer mentality, shooting ability,” a combination the person has never seen out of a player Bates’ age. The rising sophomore led Lincoln High School in Michigan to its first state title last season and dazzled at the Nike Peach Jam amateur showcase last month, averaging 32.3 points, 10 rebounds and four assists per game. Motown Gospel is honored to announce the official signing of iconic choirmaster Ricky Dillard today. Known for his skillful directing and inimitable presentation marked by high energy, acrobatics and charisma, the 3-time GRAMMY® nominee will record his Motown Gospel debut album, along with New G, live in Chicago Saturday, September 28, 2019 at Haven of Rest Missionary Baptist Church. “The Choirmaster,” as Ricky is famously known, brings a new flavor to Motown Gospel with his fiery directing skills and his ability to captivate and touch souls through his music. It is no mystery why his hit single “Amazing” spent a record-setting 30 weeks at number 1, or his most recent albums, 10 and Amazing, both debuted at number one on the Top Gospel Album Chart. Alex and Stephen Kendrick have enjoyed box-office success that few filmmakers ever will experience. Their movies “Fireproof” (2008) and “Courageous” (2011) both opened in the Top 4. Their 2015 movie “War Room” climbed to No. 1 in America on its second weekend. They’ve been interviewed by big-city newspapers and broadcast networks. But they don’t judge the success of their movies solely on box-office numbers or public relations victories. They judge success, Stephen Kendrick said, by a movie’s spiritual impact. “One person coming to Christ is better than 10 Academy Awards,” he told Baptist Press. The Kendricks are applying the same standard to their upcoming movie “Overcomer” (PG), which will release in theaters Aug. 23 and asks moviegoers to consider the question: What do you allow to define you? Yes, they want “Overcomer” to do well at the box office. But that’s because it will increase the number of moviegoers impacted. Hillsong worship leader Marty Sampson announced on Instagram Friday that he’s “genuinely losing his faith”—and he’s not upset about it. Sampson was one of Hillsong’s original worship leaders and wrote and co-wrote hundreds of praise songs including hits like “Now that You’re Near,” “King of Majesty,” “O Praise the Name,” “For Who You Are” and “Open Heaven.” In his post—which has since been deleted, along with the rest of the artist’s Instagram posts—he included a picture of what appears to be Samson bringing down the pillars of the Philistine temple in Judges 16. He writes that the more he thinks about it, the more Christianity seems just like every other religion, and he doesn’t want any part of it anymore: “Christians can be some of the most [judgmental] people on the planet—they can also be some of the most beautiful and loving people … but it’s not for me. I am not in any more. I want genuine truth. Not the ‘I just believe it’ kind of truth. Science keeps piercing the truth of every religion. Lots of things help people change their lives, not just one version of God.” Sampson also points to apparent contradictions in the Bible and the church as a reason he’s leaving the faith. Simone Biles continues to alter gymnastics and make history, and at U.S. Gymnastics Championships this weekend, she’s soaring toward her sixth national title. Literally. With a 1.75-point lead after Friday, the first of two days of competition, she’s in place to win another championship. Even when she struggled with routines featuring unprecedented difficulty, she continued proving she’s the best gymnast in the world. That was best exemplified in her performance on the balance beam. When she landed her dismount, she made history becoming the first gymnast to land a double-twisting double somersault. https://youtu.be/IyzdDu7ZHz8 During a hearing at Oakland County Probate Court on Tuesday, a Michigan judge agreed to allow a handwriting expert examine wills discovered in couch cushions after Aretha Franklin‘s death. Judge Jennifer Callaghan also placed administration of the Queen of Soul’s estate under court supervision. “That means the court will have a role in major decisions about her estate, including the sale of property,” per Page Six. Franklin’s niece Sabrina Owens remains the personal representative for the estate. Tuesday’s hearing exposed the deepening divide among Franklin’s surviving family members. A handwritten 2014 document shows the singer apparently wanted her son, Kecalf Franklin, to serve as the representative of her estate. Kecalf is petitioning the court to name him the estate’s personal representative, replacing Owens, and he is being supported by his brother Edward, according to the Detroit Free Press. Ted White, Franklin’s third son, has backed Owens while asking to be named co-representative, the report states. Owens is also favored to serve as guardian of Franklin’s eldest son, Clarence, who has special needs. In petitions filed last week, Jon Munger asked the court to deny Kecalf and Teddy’s requests to represent the estate. Pull Us Through is a song written, arranged, produced and performed by Jermaine Dolly featuring Maranda Curtis. This song serves as a reminder as well as encouraging the listener and all believers to call on God to pull us through in these difficult times. THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW only on TV One, highlights "Best Of" fan favorite episodes featuring Steve Harvey, Morris Chestnut, Tisha Campbell-Martin, Tony Rock, Luenell, Sherri Shepherd and more! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_CF8-bMTQs&feature=youtu.be The Gospel Music Association (GMA) celebrates its golden anniversary on Christian and Gospel music's biggest night. The 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards will goes down in Nashville, Tennessee on Tuesday, October 15 honoring outstanding achievements and excellence in Christian music since 1969. Look for big names like Natalie Grant, Jekalyn Carr, Karen Peck to be there. The 50th celebration will be a powerful evening of high-energy and unforgettable vocal events paying tribute to 50 years of special appearances and sensational stage highlights over the decades. Performances representing modern Rock, Rap/Hip Hop, Pop/Contemporary, Inspirational, Southern Gospel, Bluegrass, Country, Worship and more will make up an evening praising the rich musical diversity from the past, present and future of Gospel and Christian music. In an exclusive partnership with RCA Inspiration, GRAMMY® nominated and Stellar Award- winning artist Kierra Sheard has released two new singles, “Don’t Judge Me” featuring Hip-Hop icon Missy Elliott and a solo recording of “Don’t Judge Me” accompanied by a new music video. “Don’t Judge Me” debuts five years since her last studio album, 'Graceland" which earned her multiple nominations at the 2015 Stellar Awards and debuted at #1 on Billboard’s and iTunes’ Gospel Albums charts. “Don’t Judge Me” acknowledges that all of us make mistakes and are imperfect. Throughout the video, Kierra highlights her most vulnerable moments which have happened in the public eye. In addition to the release of her new singles, Kierra recently co-wrote and is featured on Chance The Rapper’s single “I Got You (Always and Forever)” along with En Vogue and Ari Lennox. Kierra will roll out more music in the coming months in partnership with RCA Inspiration, and will be recording a live-version of her upcoming album Kierra, in Detroit on September 13th, at her father Bishop J. Drew Sheard’s church, Greater Emmanuel Institutional COGIC. Kierra is slated for release in 2020. Outside of music, Kierra continues to pursue her acting career as she portrays the role of her mother, Karen Clark Sheard, in the upcoming Lifetime Biopic, “The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel”, slated for January 2020. In the aftermath of two mass shootings in El Paso and Dayton that totaled more than 31 fatalities, a group of NFL teams are chipping in to help the victims. The Houston Texans, Cincinnati Bengals and Dallas Cowboys all announced Wednesday that they, alongside the NFL Foundation, are donating to the funds set up to help victims of the El Paso and Dayton shootings. The donations total $225,000. Gospel music’s favorite artist, VaShawn Mitchell returns with ELEMENTS, available everywhere today. The multiple Stellar and Dove Award winner, and GRAMMY nominee, offers an exceptional 13-track album in commemoration of his successful 20-year career in music. ELEMENTS has already generated two impactful singles “Wind of God,” and “God Can Do Anything,” which continues to climb the gospel radio charts. Todd Dulaney is best known as a dynamic worship leader, husband, father, and prolific songwriter - penning some of today's most beloved worship songs. His talent was on display when Dulaney performed a medley of his hit songs at TBN's Holy Land Experience, and introduced the worldwide audience to a new worship anthem, "Miracles, Signs and Wonders." Captivated by the presence of God felt through Dulaney's penmanship, the audience didn't even miss the exclusion of Dulaney's biggest songs as he led worship with his current chart-topping songs, "You're Doing It All Again,"and "Your Great Name." A certain former president and first lady have made their mark in Hollywood. “The Obamas settling into new role as Netflix producers,” said The Hollywood Reporter — referring of course to former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama, who signed an exclusive production deal with Netflix some 15 months ago, then formed a Los Angeles-based production company called Higher Ground. More significantly, the couple is now readying their first release, a documentary titled “American Factory,” which chronicles the culture clash between Chinese and American workers in a U.S. auto glass factory. It is set to debut on Netflix before 139 million subscribers in 190 countries on Aug. 21 and will also be screened in select theaters around the nation. The film was already cited at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year. The couple’s next project will be “Bloom,” a dramatic series set in New York City shortly after World War II. The former White House residents, meanwhile, appear to be settling in at Netflix. Grammy nominated Gospel sensation Anthony Brown and Group therAPy announces the 2econd Wind Live tour, today. The 2econd Wind Live tour will kick-off at the Bronze Peacock at the Houston House of Blues in Texas Sunday, October 6, 2019. With the highly anticipated upcoming album 2econd Wind: Ready, the Stellar Award winner Anthony Brown and Group therAPy will deliver all the fan favorites, including his latest trending single “Blessings on Blessings.” 2econd Wind is not just another CD. It’s the song of the conqueror. It’s what happens when you push past the place where you said “I can’t”. This tour will be a defining moment for all who come. When God adds His “super” to your “natural”, 2econd Wind is the result. Meet me in a city near you so we can experience it together!, said Anthony Brown. Lamont Sanders drops hot song 'All That I Have (One God)" https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/Lamont-Sanders-All-That-I-Have-One-God-85zRrF9Z0fNDKpKDlkRZ0 IT'S ALL ABOUT HOLLYWOOD GLAM ON THE NEXT EPISODE OF LIVING BY DESIGN WITH JAKE AND JAZZ. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0iYzwf2O_w&feature=youtu.be THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE WELCOMES AWARD-WINNING PRODUCER WARYN CAMPBELL, EXONERATED FIVE YUSEF SALAAM, Brian Courtney Wilson AND MORE NEXT WEEK! There is no glamor to Sharon Shalom’s memories of his evacuation from the Sudanese desert to Israel 35 years ago. “I had to leave my parents behind in Sudan,” said Shalom, now a rabbi in Tel Aviv, in a phone interview. “The Mossad came in the middle of the night to take us on the trucks. In one small truck, we had 150 people; the mission was very dangerous.” Now the daredevil operation by Israel’s secret service to rescue more than 8,000 Ethiopian Jews from Sudanese refugee camps in the early 1980s has become “The Red Sea Diving Resort,” a fast-paced Netflix drama that turns Chris Evans, best known for playing Captain America, into a dashing Israeli hero. The resort of the film’s title refers to the dilapidated holiday retreat that the Mossad purchased as a cover for what they dubbed Operation Brothers. For those who are encapsulated in the finality of summer as August hits its zenith, Enon Music Group brings a “burst of April”in the summer time with the unveiling of cover art and pre order availability for The H.O.P.E. Experience, the highly anticipated CD release of singer, worship leader and dynamic vocal stylist and East Coast representative April Hall. April Hall shares her joy with the messages of strength and encouragement found in The H.O.P.E. Experience. “HOPE is an acronym for hold on, pain ends. A Christian rapper who has recorded songs with Toby Mac and Flame has the top-selling album in the United States according to Billboard. NF’s new album The Search grabbed the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s chart for the week of Aug. 10, edging Of Monsters and Men, Chance the Rapper, the Grateful Dead and Justin Moore. His 2017 album Perception also hit No. 1 on the chart. “I put my life into this and to see this much support means a lot,” he wrote on Twitter. “… The fans made this album #1, and I am forever grateful.” NF’s songs are free from the coarse language that litters much rap music, although he mostly rejects the “Christian rapper” label. Two of his first three albums were released by a Christian label, Capitol Christian Music Group (CMG). “I’m a Christian, but I’m just an artist." “To me, it’s like if you’re a Christian and you’re a plumber, are you a Christian plumber? That’s the easiest way for me to explain it. I just make music. I talk about my life, I talk about my faith. I talk about positive things that I’ve dealt with that have taught me things and I talk about negative things that I’m dealing with. I wouldn’t describe myself as that, but I am a Christian.” Lauren Daigle lands her first No. 1 on Billboard‘s Adult Contemporary radio airplay chart, as “You Say” ascends 2-1 on the Aug. 10-dated ranking. The ballad dethrones the longest-leading hit in the chart’s history: Maroon 5’s “Girls Like You,” after 33 weeks in charge. With “You Say” having topped the Christian Airplay chart for 17 weeks beginning last September, the song is the first to have led both that list and the AC survey. Madame Tussauds will honor late singer Aaliyah with a wax figure tribute set to debut in Las Vegas on August 21st. To celebrate the event, Aaliyah’s family and estate have set up a contest for loyal fans to get a chance to attend the exclusive VIP party where the wax figure will be unveiled. The Aaliyah App, helps to keep fans in the loop and allows users “to post videos up to three minutes long. The Aaliyah App was released after the long-awaited Aaliyah for M.A.C makeup collection that launched in June. Oprah Winfrey praised her late friend and idol, Toni Morrison, hailing the best-selling author’s “confidence and self-assuredness and nobility.” Winfrey and Morrison knew each other for more than 20 years, dating back to when Winfrey was so determined to learn the author’s unlisted phone number that she called the local fire department. Winfrey said that when she started her book club in 1996, she was thinking of Morrison. Winfrey recalled that when Morrison made her first appearance on “The Oprah Show,” she talked about raising her boys as a single mother and left many in the audience moved. Winfrey said Morrison recalled that her boys used to complain that she would fuss at them when they entered her room, asking them to button their shirts or comb their hair. “What I realize is that what every child really wants to know is do your eyes light up when I enter the room?” Morrison said then. Winfrey said Morrison’s lesson that day was larger than about children. It was about husbands, wives, lovers and anybody we care about. Today, breast cancer survivor, actress and producer, Vanessa Bell Calloway announced a production deal with Susan G. Komen to amplify the "Know Your Girls" campaign, through the re-launch of her digital series, In the Company of Friends on Instagram TV and the web. Bridging generational and technological divides by ranging from short to mid-form digital content on social media and across all digital formats, In the Company of Friends - All Things Healthy tackles issues such as wellness, self-image, food, fitness and more. In the Company of Friends return August 19th and features guests who range in age from Gen Z to Millennials to Baby Boomers, appealing to those who stream video content to a computer, mobile device, directly to a TV or across social media platforms. "With our incredible lineup of celebrities, industry-leading experts, and breast cancer survivors, the mission of In The Company of Friends - All Things Healthy will inspire, educate and entertain viewers," says Bell Calloway. We empower our audience to embrace a healthy lifestyle, by providing inspiration to make healthy choices." Queen Elizabeth II doesn’t want Meghan Markle to feel like an outsider, much like Princess Diana felt when she joined the family, which is why the reigning monarch has reportedly made “a particular effort” to make the former actress feel incredibly welcomed. Award-winning British journalist and author Duncan Larcombe told Fabulous that the queen is extending an invite to the Duchess of Sussex for several royal engagements. The move is said to be an effort to make certain Markle feels like she’s part of the family. “Meghan seems to have forged a particularly close relationship with the queen if you compare that to when other people have married into the royal family,” said according to Larcombe. “The queen, last year in the first few months of Meghan’s entry into the royal family, made a particular and slightly unusual effort to welcome her in,” Larcombe told the outlet. “Unusual in the context of the trip on the royal train to do a royal engagement. I am 99 percent sure she’s never afforded that offer to Kate.” Tupac Shakur and his mother, Afeni Shakur, will be the focus of a five-part FX documentary, the network announced Tuesday at the Television Critics Association’s summer press tour in Beverly Hills, Calif. Directed by Allen Hughes, “Outlaw: The Saga of Afeni and Tupac Shakur,” will be a re-telling of his relationship with his mother, who was a noted civil rights activist and Black Panther member. Afeni died on May 2, 2016. Colin Kaepernick is not ready to give up on his pro sports career even though he was last active in the NFL during the 2016 season with the San Francisco 49ers. In a Twitter post on Wednesday, the 31-year-old wrote: “5am. 5 days a week. For 3 years. Still Ready.” He then noted in a corresponding video that he’s been “denied” work for 889 days. Kap was blacklisted after he ignited a protest movement against police brutality by kneeling during the playing of the national anthem at games. The league responded by shutting him out; and he has not played since the 2016 season. Kaepernick fired back by filing a grievance in October 2017. The series will feature interviews from folks who personally knew them as well as never-before-heard or seen music, writings and poetry from the late artist. New artist and Gospel Powerhouse singer Josh Copeland makes his Gospel music solo debut with the release of his new single and EP - A Winans classic, "Uphold Me." Josh Copeland launched onto the scene a few years ago as a member of DMV's city-wide choir and 4-Time Stellar Award nominees Charles Butler & Trinity. As a member of Trinity, Josh gained attention throughout various churches and television platforms for his rousing performance of the electicifying song "The Blood," which he is featured on as a lead vocalist on Charles Butler & Trinity's album "The Blood Experience." SHIRLEY CAESAR GUEST STARS ON BET NETWORK'S “SUNDAY BEST” THIS SUNDAY, AUGUST 11TH AT 8PM ET/PT. The Top 4 Contestants Take Viewers to Church! "SUNDAY GRAMMY nominated, Billboard Music Award Winner, and seven-time Stellar Award Winner JJ Hairston’s 10th album Miracle Worker debuts at #2 on the Top Gospel Albums Chart. The album Miracle Worker is accompanied by the release of a relationship book with his wife, Trina Hairston, titled, A Miracle Marriage. Fans can currently catch JJ and Trina Hairston on the multi-city “Love & Miracles Tour.” Tour stops can be found at JJHairston.com. Hip hop artist Chance the Rapper has revealed that his life was completely transformed for the better following his wife’s faith-filled decision to abstain from sex and to get baptized. The popular Chicago-based rapper opened up about his marriage on an Apple Music podcast, hosted by rapper, Nicki Minaj. Speaking candidly about his wife Kristen’s decision to abstain from sex, Chance explained how her bold choice actually helped set him free from spiritual bondage. Chance told the host about a track. “I need you to hear one song on my album that has my best verse that I written in my life,” he said. “It’s called ‘we go high.’” “I explain that my wife literally saved my life by becoming celibate and going and getting baptized,” Chance added. It was this radical decision that caused Chance, whose real name is Chancellor Jonathan Bennett, to start taking his faith more seriously. “It changed her life, obviously. But we [are] talking about me right now. It changed my life, for real. Now I know exactly where my strength comes from,” he explained. PMJ (Pastor Mike Jr.)is blazing a new trail. Not only does he Pastor one of the fastest growing ministries in the south, he’s also an up and coming artist whose soulful voice and vibe connects with practically every genre! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1W6wqsg9MaI&feature=youtu.be The historic Prince of Peace Church, under the pastoral leadership of Willie E. Kilpatrick has a 50-voice mass that recorded and released their first Gospel album DO YOU KNOW. Pastor Willie E. Kilpatrick Presents Joseph Price and the Prince of Peace Choir releases DO YOU KNOW a 13-track album full of poignant and spirited hits. On Sunday, September 1st, Atlanta's Piedmont Park will welcome the 8th Pure Heat Community Festival; also known as a free “day of unity.” The free cultural event is equipped with market and food vendors, live celebrity and local performers, entertainment, educational forums, prizes & giveaways - all designed to bring together the spirit of community, pride, and vision. In partnership with The Vision Community Foundation, a portion of proceeds from the weekend’s festivities are used to benefit homeless LGBT youth and those infected/affected with HIV/AIDS. An exciting line-up of indie-artist performances, honorees and presenters will be announced in the coming weeks. Hosted by Bishop Oliver Clyde Allen III, Rashad Burgess, Avian Watson and Melissa “DJ M” Scott, the Pure Heat Community Festival is a front seat into a spectacular gathering of minority LGBTQ people and their allies in the heart of Atlanta. “Deliver Me (This Is My Exodus)” (featuring Le’Andria Johnson) from GRAMMY® Award-winning icon and producer Donald Lawrence Presents The Tri-City Singers, hits #1 on the latest Billboard Gospel Airplay Chart. Just off the helm of a powerful performance on BET’s Sunday Best, Johnson joined Donald Lawrence and The Tri-City Singers on the stage, delivering her unforgettable vocal gifts that made her the Sunday Best season 3 winner, with Lawrence’s arrangement and poignant lyrics showcasing why he continues to remain one of Gospel music’s most prolific artists, music directors, songwriters, and producers. Watch Donald Lawrence Presents The Tri-City Singers “Deliver Me (This Is My Exodus)” (feat. Le’Andria Johnson) BET’s Sunday Best Performance: https://www.bet.com/video/sundaybest/season-9/highlights/episode-907-s1-leandria-johnson-deliver-me.html Jay Z and Will Smith are behind an upcoming Emmett Till miniseries; the 14 your-old Black American teen who was murdered and mutilated in 1955 in Mississippi for allegedly whistling at a white girl. Till’s killers were acquitted, despite admitting to the murder later. But because of double jeopardy, they could not be tried a second time. Will and Jay’s project has finally found a home at ABC and will focus on the story of Till’s mother Mamie Till-Mobley, who dedicated her life to fighting for civil rights after her son’s death. Till-Mobley famously asked that her son’s casket be left open during his funeral in Chicago, which was attended by more than 50,000 people and covered by Jet magazine. Photos of his lynching rocked the nation. CNN is reportedly planning to roll out an all-black panel show featuring regular contributors April Ryan, Andrew Gillum, Angela Rye and Bakari Sellers. According to Page Six, the group were a hit with viewers when they appeared on the network’s morning show, “New Day With Alisyn Camerota and John Berman” during the Democratic debates last week. “It was the most excitement on that morning show since Chris Cuomo left as co-anchor,” a source told the outlet. “CNN is fast-tracking talks … to develop it into a stand-alone show. The early chatter is that it could start as a weekend show that would rival MSNBC’s programming with Joy Reid, the Rev. Al Sharpton and Kendis Gibson.” Stellar Award winning and Dove Award nominated singer-songwriter, Maurette Brown Clark, has dropped a music video for her radio single, “I Want God." The video made its debut on BET.com https://www.bet.com/video/bet-gospel/2019/maurette-brown-clark-i-want-god.html Toni Morrison, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author who illuminated the joys and agonies of black American life through breathtakingly vital works like Beloved, Song of Solomon and A Mercy, died on Monday night her publisher Knopf confirmed. She was 88 years old. Over her six-decade career, she wrote 11 novels, five children’s books, two plays, a song cycle and an opera. She served as an editor and professor, mentoring generations of young writers of color. After being largely ignored as a writer for a decade in the ‘70s, Morrison went on to win accolade after accolade, from the Nobel Prize in Literature to the Presidential Medal of Freedom to the PEN/Saul Bellow Award for Achievement in American Fiction. Khalid took to Twitter on Monday (Aug. 5) to announce that he’s planning to hold a benefit concert for the families of victims of the El Paso, Texas, mass shooting later this month. “Over the past few days, I’ve been thinking of ways to help out and support the city,” the pop/R&B artist who lived in El Paso during his senior year of high school wrote. “I’m planning for a benefit concert later this month, all of the proceeds will go to the families affected by the shooting. Sending everyone my love and will keep you guys updated.” He added: “Over the past few days, my mind and heart have been heavy. Hearing/seeing an act of terrorism happen so close to home, my family, and my friends has been unbelievable and shocking. Singing ‘915’ and ‘city of El Paso’ on tour every night feels indescribable.” It’s been 13 years since its inception, and Skillet isn’t slowing down any time soon. The wildly popular Christian rock band delivered its 10th studio album, Victorious, just after midnight on Friday (Aug. 2), and as the title suggests, it’s a tribute to overcoming obstacles. Produced by frontman John Cooper and his wife, guitarist Korey Cooper, the 12-track album follows the dynamic, pounding rhythms their fans adore. The lead single, “Legendary,” sets the tone for the rest of the track list with fiery lyrics like, “Fly high or will I fall?/Legends made when faith is strong/Say my name, No time to plead/Say my name, I’m conquering.” Victorious is a follow-up to 2016’s gold-certified Unleashed. THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW Monday through Thursday at 11 P.M. ET/10C only on TV One. Joining DL in the studio this week is actress/model Karrueche Tran, Monday, August 5, former football star Brian Banks, Tuesday, August 6, actress Gabrielle Dennis, Wednesday, August 7 and comedian Ralph Harris, Thursday, August 8. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4t_O8HdG0c&feature=youtu.be After taking a six-year pause from his solo recording career, Isaac Carree is back with his highly anticipated recording, No Risk… No Reward, set for release this Fall on Shanachie Entertainment. Taking risks is something the Atlanta based Renaissance man is well acquainted with. His motto is “Why not?!” He explains, “I’m intentional about everything I do. Sometimes I do things even if I am afraid, but I do it! WHY NOT?!” The new single is HER....https://soundcloud.com/shanachie-1/isaac-carree-her/s-acPxR With two mass shootings making national news over the weekend, responses from evangelical leaders shifted from mourning the tragic events to naming the evil blamed for recent attacks. Several pastors spoke up to decry the racism and white supremacy that, according to an online manifesto, motivated a gunman to attack a Walmart in the border city of El Paso, Texas, killing 20 people and injuring 26 more on Saturday. That night, another mass shooting took place at a bar in Dayton, Ohio, though authorities have not determined a motive. “As president of @SWBTS, I want to be clear that we condemn in the strongest possible form any and all ideologies of racial/ethnic superiority/inferiority that fuel the kind of hate evidently motivating the #ElPaso shooter to commit such a horrific act of violence in our state,” tweeted Adam Greenway, president of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. Multiple Southern Baptist leaders echoed Greenway’s remarks, and others—including leaders like Denny Burk and Andrew Walker—shared a National Review editorial that targeted white supremacy as the root cause of America’s mass shooting problem: The El Paso tragedy marks the second US attack this year involving a young white man who named the New Zealand mosque gunman as inspiration the first was California synagogue shooting suspect back in April. Since 2017, white extremists have targeted victims in eight US attacks, but the El Paso shooting was the most deadly, The New York Times reported. The ideology has been linked to at least four of the ten worst “active shooter incidents” in the country. Rihanna slammed Donald Trump over his response to the mass shooting that took place in the early hours of August 4 at a Walmart in El Paso, Texas. The gunman, 21-year-old white supremacist Patrick Crusius, killed 20 people and left 26 injured. Trump offered his “heartfelt thoughts and prayers to the great people of Texas” after tweeting that “there are no reasons or excuses that will ever justify killing innocent people.”Posting a screenshot of Trump’s tweet, Rihanna wrote: “Um… Donald, you spelt ‘terrorism’ wrong! Your country had 2 terrorist attacks back to back hours apart leaving almost 30 innocent people dead.” Adding: “Imagine a world where it’s easier to get an AK-47 than a VISA! Imagine a world where they build a wall to keep terrorists IN AMERICA!!! My prayers and deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of all the victims from Texas, California, and Ohio! I’m so sorry for your loss! Nobody deserves to die like this! NOBODY!” Afton Williamson, star of the ABC crime series “The Rookie,” says she is quitting the show because of sexual harassment and racial discrimination she experienced during the making of the show’s first season. In an Instagram post Sunday, Williamson outlined a series of claims against the show. She said she was sexually assaulted by the show’s hair department head, sexually harassed by a recurring guest star and suffered bullying from executive producers. Williamson also was highly critical of how her claims were handled by showrunner Alexi Hawley. Williamson says her claims weren’t seriously investigated by the network and weren’t shared by Hawley with other producers. Representatives for ABC did not immediately respond to messages Sunday. After four weeks in a Swedish prison, a judge allowed A$AP Rockyto go back to the United States while the courts determine the verdict in his assault case. The multiplatinum-selling rapper quickly hopped on Twitter to express his gratitude for all the support he received during the ordeal. “THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART TO ALL OF MY FANS, FRIENDS AND ANYONE ACROSS THE GLOBE WHO SUPPORTED ME DURING THESE LAST FEW WEEKS,” he wrote in all caps. “I CANT BEGIN TO DESCRIBE HOW GRATEFUL I AM FOR ALL OF YOU. “THIS HAS BEEN A VERY DIFFICULT AND HUMBLING EXPERIENCE I WANT TO THANK THE COURT FOR ALLOWING ME BLADI AND THOTO TO RETURN TO OUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS THANKS AGAIN FOR ALL OF THE LOVE AND SUPPORT.” Hank Aaron’s arrived at an Atlanta restaurant Friday to talk with 44 high school players, mostly African-Americans. The visit was part of Aaron’s ongoing efforts for more diversity in baseball. Brian Hunter, who has been coaching some of the players, said that the 85-year-old Hall of Famer has that effect on baseball players of all ages. The high school players in attendance had a similar impact on Aaron. The players were selected to participate in the inaugural Hank Aaron Invitational exhibition game at SunTrust Park on Saturday. The event, formerly called the Elite Development Invitational, was renamed for Aaron last year. Stephen Curry and his wife, Ayesha, are celebrating 8 years of marriage! Thursday, the six-time NBA All-Star and TV personality and best-selling cookbook author, celebrated their marriage milestone — marking the occasion with sweet tributes to one another on their Instagram accounts. In each post, the couple noted how both the challenging and happy times have worked together to make their relationship stronger. “My baby, my love, my life. What can I say. This is us 8 years married in, loving each other for 11 and we somehow still find reasons and things that we love about each other every day,” Ayesha, 30, captioned a selfie of the pair. “Each day with you is the ultimate blessing. Getting to do life with you is an infinite sea of bliss.” The Family Food Fight host added, “Through our ups and downs we only become stronger and that is the ultimate key. When the trauma becomes the triumph you win! I love you for ever and always constantly giving the ultimate glory to God. Here’s to 8!” Vera Brown is a chosen vessel of God, an anointed voice and a woman who encourages through her voice and through her incredible life. Vera's professional singing career had her she joining The Ritchie Family (sister group of The Village People), replacing Ednah Holt and became their official lead singer. Vera left R&B music seeking a deeper spiritual relationship with the Lord and decided to accept the calling on her life to minister the Gospel of Jesus Christ though song in Praise and Worship music. Vera's new single, "Yes We Can Can", is a remake of the Pointer Sisters classic hit in which Vera delivers with passion and with an authentic throughback funky vibe. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_kZvKqrqyI&feature=youtu.be Phil thiompson drops a hot praise song, "Your Love/Found Me." Check it out!!! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSVL3Nipma4 Alfred Street Baptist Church (ASBC), the oldest, largest and most prominent African American church in Northern Virginia, presents an extraordinary FREE Men's One-Day Conference, featuring Hollywood producer and New York Times Best-Selling author, DeVon Franklin, as keynote speaker, and will be led by ASBC Pastor Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley. "Beyond Childish Things" is the theme of the conference, which will address how men can grow/mature in their faith, finances, and relationships. In addition, it will discuss how men can move beyond childish behavior to become the men God has called and destined them to be. International and celebrated Choir Director Chantel R. Wright's Pneumatica joins the annual Thomas Dorsey National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses from Sunday, August 3 through Sunday, August 11 at the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center. The nine-member inspired youth-ensemble will perform selections from the group's debut CD, Chantel R. Wright Presents Pneumatica: All We Need. Sensational singer, songwriter, and producer Thomas Batts is currently impacting the airwaves with his new single "Heal Me" featuring Michael Green and TaMyya J. "Heal Me" is an epic song that deals with real life everyday issues. Hear, the amazing singers deliver the lines as if they're dictating what's happening as it occurs. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7k-wlepW_4&list=PLZExzmTVPFATmJ5103vdCRKysEXrEbwip Global United Fellowship (GUF) recently convened its 6th annual gathering at the Atlantis Resort in Nassau, Bahamas. It was the first time that the organization hosted the annual event on the island that is the home of its Presiding Prelate, Bishop Neil C. Ellis. The Gathering 2019 was focused on The Healthy Church, and provided numerous immersive sessions that took a bold and practical look at issues faced by contemporary Christians, church leaders and congregations. One such session was "Man Talk," presented by movie producer and author Devon Franklin and veteran actor Dondre Whitfield. Another powerful session was the panel discussion “Should We Rethink the Way We Do Church” hosted by Jawn Murray. SISTER CIRCLE WELCOMES EPISODES OF GRAMMY-NOMINATED GOSPEL ARTIST DEITRICK HADDON, NEW SOUL KITCHEN CO-HOST CHEF JERNARD, AWARD-WINNING FILM/TV PRODUCER DEVON FRANKLIN AND MORE SPECIAL GUESTS NEXT WEEK! Aretha Franklin’s newly renovated estate in Bloomfield Township, Michigan has been relisted for a cool $1.2 million. The Queen of Soul, who passed away last year at the age of 76, had not lived in on the property for 15 years. But the real estate company bills it as a “once in a lifetime opportunity” to live in the home once owned by the icon singer. Shortly after Franklin died from pancreatic cancer, her suburban mansion hit the market for $800,000. The 4,100 square feet house, built in 1990, features: Five bedrooms, Six bathrooms' Overlooks a common pool and two ponds' Courtyard entrance with circular drive, Two-story marble foyer with crystal chandelier, opens to two-story great room with granite fireplace, Wet bar and Gourmet kitchen. JAKE AND JAZZ TRANSFORM A HOME INTO AN ENVIABLE FAMILY PLAY LAND ON THE NEXT EPISODE OF LIVING BY DESIGN WITH JAKE AND JAZZ. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llB9qxv5XAc&feature=youtu.be Check out Sunday's Best this Sunday 8/4 on BET to see Donald Lawrence & Le'Andria Johnson perform "Deliver Me" https://youtu.be/KwYJv455Zmk William & Mary has received a $1 million grant to help fund research into the legacy of slavery and racism at the school in Virginia as well as at the estate of fifth U.S. President James Monroe. The university in Williamsburg said in a statement Wednesday that the grant comes from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. William & Mary said the five-year grant will fund several initiatives. They include genealogy work as well as an oral history project documenting stories of descendants of enslaved men and women. The project will be executed in part by the school’s Lemon Project, which aims to rectify past wrongs by the school against African Americans. Also involved is Highland, Monroe’s former estate in Charlottesville, which is part of William & Mary. Kanye West, who has been hosting invite-only, church-style services on Sundays recently, is apparently now a “born-again Christian.” News of West’s alleged faith came from fellow rapper Nicki Minaj, who, while hosting “Queen Radio” on Apple Music, revealed West told her that he turned to God in 2016, when he was hospitalized and ultimately diagnosed with bipolar disorder. “Sometimes in the music business, we think that other artists don’t believe in God or aren’t spiritual as we are,” she explained. “Then when you find people because I was just with Kanye, and he told me he’s a born-again Christian now.” Minaj went on to say she noticed a change in West’s demeanor the last time she saw the fashion designer. “Like, my first instinct was, ‘I’m so proud of you,’ because I could see there’s a peace that he has now that just surpasses everything,” she said. “And that’s what I find God gives you. And I love when I see men that are man enough to embrace God.” A fundraiser has been launched on social media to help replace several portraits of African American musicians torn down in a North Carolina city. WITN in Greenville reports the portraits were posted in the city of Kinston as part of the North Carolina Arts Council’s efforts to bring recognition to local African American artists that have made an impact in music. The portraits also were part of the city’s beautification effort. The Facebook fundraiser has been established to help raise $3,500 to go toward replacing the portraits. There have been no arrests in the case. Twenty-two-year-old Caeleb Dressel broke retired Olympic champion Michael Phelps’ world record in the 100-meter butterfly last week. The 8-time world champion gold medalist beat his competition at the world swimming championship in Gwangju, South Korea with 49.50 seconds, narrowly beating Phelps by 0.32 seconds, according to Faithwire. Phelps set the previous record at the 2009 world meet in Rome. The Florida native is no stranger to strong victories. He first won an Olympic gold medal alongside Phelps in the 4×100 meter freestyle relay in Rio de Janeiro. Last year, he tied Phelps with seven gold medals in the world championships. This year, he broke all records with eight medals. Bless Somebody Else, the newly-released album from Gospel legend Kurt Carr, makes its debut at #2 on the Gospel albums consumption charts, debuting at #2 on the Top Gospel Albums chart and Soundscan’s Current Gospel Albums chart. Featuring an upbeat rhythmic mix, a dash of good humor, and an optimistic outlook to encourage us to be a blessing to others, among the album’s standout songs include “With Thanksgiving,” “Grace Brought Me Back/Love Lifted Me” feat. Le’Andria Johnson, “I Got Back Up” feat. B. Slade, “Blessing After Blessing,” “Something Big, Something Marvelous” along with the title track “Bless Somebody Else (Dorothy’s Song).” Checkout the review of the album on the Gospel Spotlight....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/album_rvw.htm Derrick Starks drops new music "Sanctified Church Medley"....https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11tZeO3AvO4 Jekalyn Carr internationally acclaimed and award-winning artist/author/actress/speaker/entrepreneur is excited to announce a LIVE ALBUM RECORDING! The event will go down during the 15th Anniversary of Praise 102.5's Praise In The Park ATL, October 5, 2019 at the CELLAIRIS Amphitheatre at Lakewood in Atlanta, GA. Jekalyn has enjoyed incredible success – with "I See Miracles." She's had multiple #1 hits, including "You're Bigger," "You Will Win," and "It's Yours." Additionally, she is a 3-time GRAMMY Award nominee, two-time Billboard Music Award nominee, NAACP Image Award nominee and four-time Stellar Award and GMA Dove Award winner. William “Duce” Branch rapped about eschatology at the Black Church Leadership and Family Conference, incorporating rhyme, rhythm and bounce. “Today feels beautiful. I wanted you to know, about a rescuer who can stop the funeral. He’s beautiful…. Controls this life, and the next. He can take a life falling apart, tighten it up like a hex key.” Branch, an assistant professor of preaching and Bible at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, calls himself “the ambassador” and admits to being a preacher using rap as a disguise. He ministered to adults of all ages during the Tuesday evening worship at the conference held July 22-26 at Ridgecrest Conference Center in Ridgecrest, N.C. “In other words,” Branch said, “eschatology … is to motivate present faithfulness and hope when we think about the end. Eschatologically we say this is just a preview, but I’m glad there’s more to come.” As the city of Baltimore is caught in the crossfire of political and social media banter this week, Somebody Cares Baltimore, a chapter of Somebody Cares America, continues to bring hope and connect people to much needed resources on a daily basis, as it has done for the past 10 years through a collaboration of the church, business and law enforcement communities. On July 27, SCB hosted an annual Day of Hope event in Bocek Park, the first of two this summer. The second Day of Hope will be on Aug. 10 at Frederick Douglass High School. “Day of Hope is a one-day special community event that is designed to meet both human and spiritual needs of our residents,” says SC Baltimore Director Matt Stevens. “It is an all-out lavishing and saturating of schools and communities with prayer and acts of kindness.” Going to the most violent and impoverished areas, Day Of Hope has mobilized thousands throughout the years to serve more than 20,000 residents in 14 different Baltimore city neighborhoods. In a festival atmosphere with music, food, and prize give-aways, kids play games and jump on moon-bounces while their parents receive free groceries and visit with service providers, from doctors to bankers to community resource representatives. Get blood pressure checked, learn how to avoid foreclosure and more. At the prayer tent people receive prayer and learn about Jesus. The Atlantic has obtained audio of an October 1971 conversation between Ronald Reagan and Richard Nixon where the former described African delegates at the United Nations as “monkeys.” Reagan was governor of California at the time the conversation took place, and Complex writes that he was angry because African delegates started dancing after the U.N. voted to oust Taiwan and recognize the People’s Republic of China as “the only legitimate representative of China to the United Nations.” Reagan, a supporter of Taiwan, called Nixon the following day to express his disappointment, saying:”To see those… monkeys from those African countries – damn them, they’re still uncomfortable wearing shoes!”Nixon can then be heard laughing. Duchess Meghan Markle has confirmed that she will release her own clothing line later this year, as part of a partnership with Misha Nonoo, fashion brand Jigsaw, and British retail stores Marks & Spencer and John Lewis. The collection is for a good cause too — for every item of clothing purchased, another will be donated to charity. Markle announced the news in British Vogue’s upcoming September issue, which she guest-edited. Proceeds of the collection will go to Smart Works, Markle’s charity that helps unemployed women get back into the workplace, Business Insider reports. Free agent point guard Jeremy Lin tearfully told a Christian television audience in Taiwan that he believes the ‘NBA has given up’ on him following his ninth season in the league. After winning an NBA title with the Toronto Raptors in June, the 30-year-old Harvard alum has remained unsigned this summer. The first American NBA player of Chinese or Taiwanese descent, Lin played only one minute of the Raptors’ recent NBA Finals victory over the Golden State Warriors. Lin earned the nickname ‘Linsanity’ while leading the injury-ravaged Knicks – losers of 11 of their previous 13 games – on a seven-game winning streak. Red Sox legend David Ortiz said he is spending “priceless” time with his family in his first Instagram post since he was shot and seriously injured in the Dominican Republic. “Being at home and look at my family celebrating that I’m here safe is priceless… Thanks for all the prayers,” Ortiz wrote on Instagram on Monday. “Too bad I can’t crush food yet!!!!” The photos in the post showed a steak on a grill, pasta, and fish. Ortiz was shot in the lower back while sitting at a Santo Domingo night club in early June and was subsequently flown to Boston for further treatment. He was released from the hospital over the weekend. The Dallas Cowboys are being sued for $20 million after allegedly conspiring with local Texas police to cover up a 2017 car crash involving star running back Ezekiel Elliott. Elliott allegedly ran a red light on January 11, 2017 and rammed his GMC truck into a BMW sedan belonging to Ronnie Hill, according to a lawsuit obtained by the Daily Mail. TMZ was the first to report the lawsuit. The Cowboys were days away from playing the Green Bay Packers in the playoffs at the time. According to Hill, the Cowboys ‘conspired with the Frisco [Texas] Police Department to cover up the severity of the accident to assure that Elliott’s health would not be placed in question before their playoff game.’ A jury on Monday found that Katy Perry’s 2013 hit “Dark Horse” improperly copied a 2009 Christian rap song in a unanimous decision that represented a rare takedown of a pop superstar and her elite producer by a relatively unknown artist. The verdict by a nine-member federal jury in a Los Angeles courtroom came five years after Marcus Gray and two co-authors, first sued in 2014 alleging “Dark Horse” stole from “Joyful Noise,” a song Gray released under the stage name Flame. The case now goes to a penalty phase, where the jury will decide how much Perry and other defendants owe for copyright infringement. Rapper Lecrae who is known for making music about being unashamed of his relationship with Jesus Christ took to social media over the weekend to lift up his fans who feel discouraged and are falling away from their faith. The Reach Records founder posted of photo of himself and mainstream artist, Chance the Rapper on Saturday to grab people’s attention. In times past, Lecrae has been criticized by some in the faith community for mingling with secular rappers but his new post went on to explain why he does it. “I didn’t grow up in church, I don’t know all the cultural rules and norms. I’m a lil unorthodox, I don’t call myself religious. Religion to me is following rules hoping to be right with God,” he said. The Gospel Music Association (GMA) has announced its new board of directors for both GMA and the GMA Foundation. Effective immediately, Scott Brickell, President of BrickHouse Entertainment becomes GMA Chairman while former congressman Zach Wamp, Zach Wamp Consulting becomes GMA Foundation Chairman. THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW Monday through Thursday at 11 P.M. ET/10C only on TV One. Joining DL this week is actor Miguel A. Nunez, Monday, July 29, actor/comedian Guy Torry, Tuesday, July 30, actress Loretta Devine, Wednesday, July 31 and actor Aldis Hodge, Thursday, August 1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKhF9J_1n4M&feature=youtu.be A Texas woman who celebrated her 110th birthday Saturday isn’t crediting diet or genes for her long life, instead, she is giving all of the credit to God. “Blessing of the Lord. He’s the one keeping me. That’s why I’m living,”, Elizabeth Francis told ABC 13 in Houston. Francis was born in Louisiana in 1909. That year, William Howard Taft was president. Wilbur and Orville Wright had flown their famous plane just six years earlier. World War I had not yet started. Civil War veterans were still alive. In 1909, the life expectancy of a woman in America was only 54 years old. Francis defied those odds for yet another year, as she celebrated her 110th birthday this Saturday. For the fifth year, WHUR and Café Mocha Radio hosts the Salute HerTM Awards presented by Toyota Motor North America which will take place on Thursday, August 22, 2019, at the Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theatre. Two-time Gracie Award-winning Café Mocha Radio, affectionately known as ‘Radio from a Woman’s Perspective,’ airs Saturday mornings from 7-9 am on WHUR-FM 96.3. This year an array of diverse women who make a critical difference in their respective communities will be honored. Led by women who have dared to “Step Into Your Power” such as Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams, Wimbledon sensation Cori “Coco” Gauff, and Dallas Mavericks CEO Cynthia Marshall. Central City Productions announces the 2019 Black Music Honors television taping going down Thursday, September 5th at The Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, GA. During this star-studded two-hour television special, Central City Productions (CCP) honorees for this year’s Black Music Honors include Xscape who will receive the Urban Music Icon Award, Yolanda Adams will receive the Gospel Music Icon Award, Arrested Development and Freddie Jackson will also be honored. Rickey Smiley and LeToya Luckett return as co-hosts, which is set to air in broadcast syndication Sept. 14 – October 20, 2019. State Farm returns as the show’s title sponsor. The new single "Great Faith" by The Tommies Reunion is a powerful and inspirational song that encourages and reminds us to have faith in God. Musically, this is an upbeat horn-blaring, catchy song, that is crafted as a simple, choir friendly, Sunday morning selection. https://spaces.hightail.com/space/VQdBiI9ecm/files/fi-bb0cd2b5-46f4-4e53-922b-2e3cf40bc8e8/fv-03bbb150-6161-4f9c-b027-5908beb7ab7e/GREAT%20FAITH%20RAD%20EDIT%20192.mp3 Following news that three white University of Mississippi students were suspended from their fraternity after a picture of them posing with guns in front of an Emmett Till memorial surfaced on the internet, plans are underway to replace the current sign with a new bulletproof one. The sign, located where Till’s body was pulled out of the Tallahatchie River in 1955, has been habitually defaced by racist vandals and riddled with bullets since it was erected in 2007. The executive director of the Emmett Till Memorial Commission, Patrick Weems, told CNN that the organization has teamed with Brooklyn’s Lite Brite Neon Studio to design a 600-pound sign made of reinforced steel that will go up in October. MTV is reportedly deciding whether to remove Michael Jackson’s name from their Video Vanguard Award for this year’s Video Music Awards, or get rid of the award completely. The MTV Video Music Awards are less than a month away, and organizers are considering renaming the award in light of the controversy stemming from HBO’s documentary “Leaving Neverland.” According to Page Six, “There’s a lot of heated discussion at the network about how to handle the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award this year, and it’s getting ugly,” said the insider. There’s also talk about who would present it and who would accept it. Leaving Neverland” centers around two men, Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who claim Jackson molested them as young boys. Many fans doubt the allegations, while Jackson haters have decided to boycott his music all together. Singer-songwriter-guitarist, C West, has jumped the broom with his longtime girlfriend, Katie Soriano. The couple were married earlier this month on a private estate outside of Atlanta and they honeymooned in Montego Bay, Jamaica. The couple met in and have been dating since 2016. The Buffalo-New York native recently released a haunting new acoustic Pop-Folk ballad, "West," about the life he dreams of having with his new bride. In the poetic pun on his surname, West plays his guitar and sings of empty gas tanks, waterfalls and the sun setting in…the west. Former Red Sox slugger David Ortiz is out of the hospital following three surgeries after being shot in the back at a bar in the Dominican Republic. The Red Sox said Saturday that they’ve been told Ortiz has been released from Massachusetts General Hospital. The team said there will be an update on his condition next week. ESPN reported the 43-year-old Ortiz has been home since Friday and will continue his recovery there. A 10-time All-Star, Big Papi led the Red Sox to three World Series championships before retiring after the 2016 season. GRAMMY nominated, Billboard Music Award Winner, and seven-time Stellar Award winner JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise's 10th album Miracle Worker, is available now. Hairston's 10th album is accompanied by the release of a relationship book with his wife, Trina Hairston, titled, A Miracle Marriage. Fans can currently catch JJ and Trina Hairston on the multi-city "Love & Miracles Tour." , J.J. Hairston is a friend of the Gospel Spotlight, so Flash Back Gospel Spotlight! Hear J. J. Hairston In His Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/J_J_Hairston_intvw.htm The biggest names in Christian ministry and gospel music will convene in Atlanta, Georgia, August 15-17 for the “Young Leaders Conference.” Pastor Jamal Bryant, Bishop Noel Jones, Rev. Michael McBride and many other Black Faith Leaders will attend. During the event, members of the Black Church PAC will convene a candidate’s forum and allow young leaders to interview presidential candidates. Several 2020 presidential candidates, including former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Julian Castro and Mayor Pete Buttigieg are expected to attend and be interviewed by young leaders of faith. Invitations have also been extended to Senators Elizabeth Warren, Cory Booker and Bernie Sanders. Senator Kamala Harris sent regrets for being unable to attend. The event is co-sponsored by the LIVE FREE campaign and The Black Church PAC. Entertainment One Nashville welcomes its newest signee: GRAMMY-nominated recording artist and daytime television host, Syleena Johnson. Known as the “Queen of Chicago,” and one of the most underrated singers of the new millennium – Johnson returns to music with the release of her 10th album, “WOMAN” in Fall 2019. Syleena empowers and calls all women to stand up for themselves and to be bold, brave and fearless, declaring 2019 as the “Year of the Woman.” Her current viral single, “https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frROGOqk85A&feature=youtu.be JAKE AND JAZZ CREATE AN ACTOR'S DREAM ENTERTAINMENT SPACE ON THE NEXT EPISODE OF LIVING BY DESIGN WITH JAKE AND JAZZ. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZbfLJFLIp8&feature=youtu.be THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE WELCOMES this week - Gospel Singer JJ Hairston and wife Trina Hairston, COMEDIAN/ACTRESS SHERRI SHEPHERD, SINGER/SONGWRITER ANGIE STONE AND MORE! The mainstream pop and Christian hip-hop (CHH) worlds collided again this month, as a five-year-old lawsuit claiming Katy Perry stole beats from a CHH song made it to court. Last week, Perry took the stand before a civil jury in downtown Los Angeles and maintained that she was not familiar with Flame’s “Joyful Noise” (featuring Lecrae) when she created her 2013 magic-themed, pop-meets-trap hit “Dark Horse.” Despite her origins as a Christian musician—then performing as Katy Hudson—Perry said that she was “mostly always listening to…secular music.” A US District Court judge rejected a summary judgment bid by Perry and several other songwriters last summer, and the trial will continue on Friday, when Flame (Marcus Gray) is expected to testify again. Flame originally claimed in a 2015 lawsuit that his song had been “irreparably tarnished by its association with the witchcraft, paganism, black magic, and Illuminati imagery evoked by the same music in ‘Dark Horse.’” Flash Back Gospel Spotlight! Hear Flame In His Own Words (IHOW)....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/Flame_12APR2008_intvw.wav Lauren Daigle released the official music video for her new single, “Rescue,” on Saturday. The song’s lyrics are written from God’s perspective and highlight His faithfulness to rescue us from any broken situation. The music video—which features Daigle singing the song in a variety of breathtaking vistas—was filmed in Alaska, according to Daigle’s Instagram account. https://youtu.be/gYR0xP1j4PY Multi-Stellar and Dove Award nominated James Hall and Worship and Praise are preparing to record their 10thalbum Monday, July 29th live in Washington, DC at the historic Lincoln Theatre. Known for their distinctive New York sound using a welding of classical, avant-garde and broadway, unusual chord changes and unexpected resolutions, creative use of choir vocal effects and techniques along with distinctive and dramatic narrative introductions their music has taken them all over the world and inspired audiences with a message of hope, love, and promise. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight! Hear James Hall In His Own Words (IHOW)....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/jameshall_intvw.htm Entertainment One Nashville welcomes its newest signee, multi-award winning R&B singer and songwriter Q Parker. Parker is best known as one-fourth of the GRAMMY Award winning group 112, which was founded by P. Diddy. Due in Fall 2019 on Entertainment One, Q Parker’s first effort, “The Bridge Project,” will be an urban-inspirational compilation album featuring collaborations between himself and notable mainstream and gospel music artists. A person who is defined as being eclectic is one who does not follow any one system, but instead, selects and uses what are considered the best elements of all systems. With her creative emcee stylings and new single, DJ Ms. Eclectic is bringing back the feeling you get when listening to an old school jam, while infusing new school aesthetics which ultimately generates an Eclectic Musical Experience. She has now released her new Christian Hip Hop single, “Love It (An Old School Ode)”. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dRN5iQrHlU&feature=youtu.be Do you want to be hungry like Beyoncé? “The Lion King” star and pop icon is making her post-twins, pre-Coachella cleanse available for her fans to purchase for $99 a year. The “22 Days Nutrition Meal Planner,” a plant-based diet with no alcohol, carbs or sugar, was what got Beyoncé from 218 pounds to flawless, in perhaps a record amount of time. But it wasn’t easy. “I’m hungry,” Bey famously said of the rigid regimen in the behind-the-scenes documentary of her 2018 Coachella performance, “Homecoming.” In a video unveiled this week, Beyoncé shares what it took to get her body ready for the historic performance. In the days leading up to the event, she had just given birth via emergency c-section to her and Jay-Z’s twins, Sir and Rumi, and weighed 218 pounds. “I was a woman that felt like my body was not mine,” she says. Less than 50 days out from the April 2018 performance, she reveals that she weighed 175 pounds. “Every woman’s nightmare… this is my weight, 175. Long way to go,” she says after stepping on the scale. Beyonce’s longtime friend and trainer, exercise physiologist Marco Borges, helped devise the plan: 44 days of no meat, dairy, carbs, sugar or alcohol. Kanye West wants to slap “Sunday Service” on clothing and apparel so he has reportedly filed an application to trademark the phrase. West filed to register “Sunday Service” on July 19 for use in the apparel space, including on shoes, tops, dresses, pants, jackets, scarves, loungewear and socks. The filing was made by Mascotte Holdings, the company he teamed with to file trademarks for “Yeezus,” “Yeezy,” “Red October,” “Yandhi,” “Calabasas Clothing,” “Donda,” “Half Beast” and “Kanye West” (among others), per THR. Ye’s Sunday Service is a weekly gathering of artists and celebrities for praise while a choir serves up arrangements of popular songs. In April, West brought the service to Coachella, where he sold religious-themed apparel. A biopic on the historical mission of Harriet Tubman will hit theaters this fall, giving viewers a glimpse into the faith-led mission of the iconic abolitionist. “Harriet” will take viewers on a ride through history showcasing how Tubman legendarily led slaves to freedom in America via the Underground Railroad in the mid-1800s. Playing the lead is actress Cynthia Erivo, who powerfully showcases the bravery of Tubman and her journey north to find freedom. She would ultimately return to the South to help free her friends and family who were still enslaved. “As the ‘Moses’ of her time and first woman to lead an armed expedition in war, ‘Harriet’ proves to be the perfect example of a fearless, faithful leader that all people of faith can relate to and admire.” https://youtu.be/GqoEs4cG6Uw Grammy-award winning singer Tori Kelly recently sat down for an exclusive interview with YouVersion and opened up about her faith, and the role God’s Word plays in her life. YouVersion is a popular Christian app that exists to help people regularly read, hear, and explore the Word of God. In Kelly’s interview for the app’s social media page posted over the weekend, she shared her testimony and how she keeps her faith strong. https://youtu.be/vi2JkR4vejY Darrell Johnson, a member of jailed singer R. Kelly‘s inner circle, told Gayle King on Monday’s CBS This Morning that Kelly is not doing well in custody. Kelly has been held without bond at the federal Metropolitan Correctional Center in Chicago, after being arrested July 11 on separate indictments by the Northern District of Illinois and the Eastern District of New York, which is based in Brooklyn. Johnson, who was billed as Kelly’s “crisis manager” in a “CBS This Morning” appearance Monday, has emerged as a contentious figure of Kelly’s team, previously getting into a verbal argument with the father of one of the R&B singer’s girlfriends during a previous press conference in Atlanta. “I am concerned about Mr. Kelly,” he told King on Monday, saying that he would “assume at this point” that Kelly is under suicide watch, before stating Kelly can’t busy himself by reading books in his cell because he can’t read or write. https://youtu.be/qE8tbn9KyfA Sony is taking us to church with an upcoming biopic about multi-platinum gospel singer Kirk Franklin. The film, currently untitled, is being produced by former Sony exec DeVon Franklin via his Franklin Entertainment banner, while Franklin will serve as an executive producer through his label Fo Yo Soul Entertainment. Brian Ivie (The Drop Box) has been tapped to write the film which will follow 14-time Grammy-winning artist from his humble beginning through his meteoric rise to fame as he changes the face of gospel music and battles his demons in the process. Franklin, often dubbed as the king of gospel music, released his first album in 1993 called Kirk Franklin & The Family, which went platinum with over 1 million copies sold, the first gospel album to do so, and charted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Gospel Albums chart for 42 weeks. With his latest album release, Long Live Love, Franklin became the first artist in history to top all five Billboard gospel charts at one time. Prophetess Juanita Bynum broke down in tears explaining Sunday night how she had to cancel a preaching assignment in Chesapeake, Virginia, because the pastor who was hosting her at a conference entered her hotel room uninvited and saw her underwear. “The fact that I’m getting ready to go and stand in somebody’s pulpit who’s seen my underwear, I’m sorry people, I just felt naked and I still do and just felt so violated. And what he said was he came in my room to put something in my room. But then his assistant produces drinks at the front desk for [my assistant] to take to my room,” Bynum explained in a Facebook Live broadcast shortly after midnight. “As a male, why would you come into my room? Why didn’t you send your wife into my room? And his wife has profusely apologized to me but people of God this, some things are just distasteful. Some things you just don’t cross the lines for,” she said. Roger Federer previously called for the Women’s Tennis Association to loosen the rules surrounding its age-eligibility after 15-year-old Cori Gauff’s sensational Wimbledon run. WTA implemented a rule in 1994 that 15-year-olds can only play 10 tournaments per year. This was established to protect young players from burnout. Gauff became the darling of Wimbledon when she defeated Venus Williams and made it to the fourth round — making her the youngest woman to win a Wimbledon match since 1991. Now, US Open officials are planning to “bend the rules” in order to get Gauff a spot in the final grand slam of the year. According to the New York Post, officials may give a wildcard to Gauff, but the budding tennis star has already accepted the three wildcards allotted for the year, using them at the Miami Open, French Open qualifiers and Wimbledon qualifiers. Gauff is only allowed to play 10 pro events until her 16th birthday, but WTA has allowed her to play up to 12 due to her stellar performances at the junior level. THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW Monday through Thursday at 10 PM/9C on TV One. Joining DL in the studio this week is actor Boris Kodjoe, Monday, July 22, actor Joseph Sikora, Tuesday, July 23, actress Tamala Jones, Wednesday, July 24 and actress Kellita Smith, Thursday, July 25. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L2p3SCmHjuQ BET founder and longtime Democrat Robert Johnson said in a recent interview that the Democratic Party “has moved too far to the left” to defeat Donald Trump in 2020. “The party in my opinion, for me personally, has moved too far to the left,” Johnson told CNBC’s Hadley Gamble. “And for that reason, I don’t have a particular candidate (I’m supporting) in the party at this time,” he said. “I think at the end of the day, if a Democrat is going to beat Trump, then that person, he or she, will have to move to the center and you can’t wait too long to do that.” “The message of some of the programs that Democrats are pushing are not resonating with the majority of the American people,” he added. Johnson also praised the president for improving the economy. “I think the economy is doing great, and it’s particularly reaching populations that heretofore had very bad problems in terms of jobs and employments and the opportunities that come with employment,” Johnson said. “Although he supported Hillary Clinton in 2016, Johnson — the country’s first Black billionaire — isn’t sure who he will support out of the group of Democrats running for the 2020 presidency. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BfNbfyuy1cs NFL tight end Ben Watson shared a lesson on fatherhood that every father needs to hear over the weekend on Facebook. “The perfect dad is not the man who never makes mistakes,” Watson wrote. “It is, however, the man who does not take lightly the influence he has on his children and their future and strives to live and love them accordingly.” Being a father brings a certain level of influence, one that men should not take likely, Watson expressed—and one that can be a challenge. “This challenge, responsibility, and calling is not trivial or something to be dismissed,” he wrote. “It is a privilege, joy and great responsibility.” Watson, a father of seven, pointed out that fatherhood is not an easy job. In fact, it’s often quite difficult, but it is a spectacular journey. “It is not for the faint of heart nor the pompous and proud,” he added. “And though the road presents its own unique obstacles and situations it is a journey worth pursuing.”“Through imperfection may we continue to strive to set the standard for the men we want our sons to become and the benchmark for the man we want our daughters to love,” he concluded. Biles won the U.S. Classic on Saturday night to maintain her six-year winning streak. The four-time Olympic gold medalist and reigning world champion had an all-around score of 60.000, 2.100 points ahead of runner-up Riley McCusker. Grace McCallum was third at 57.700. Biles won her 19th consecutive all-around title beginning with the 2013 U.S. Championships. She surged from fifth following the first rotation on the uneven bars into first on the next. She had the highest score in the vault (15.650), though Jade Carey won the event with a two-vault average score of 14.800. Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Tamela Mann recently underwent surgery and is thanking supporters on her recovery journey through social media. “Hey everybody … surgery was successful,” Mann is heard saying in a video posted on Instagram Wednesday. “Thank you for your prayers. I haven’t gotten up and walked yet but that’s coming…” The “Meet the Browns” actress and singer had to undergo a double knee replacement and she says she was only able to get through it because of the support she’s received. “I just love everybody I just thank my family and all you guys prayers out there and all the calls I got, I really appreciated and I couldn’t [have] made it without everybody, so thank you so much,” Mann continued. Her family joined her in the hospital and waited until she was out of surgery. The group was seen sporting T-shirts with the hashtag #TeamMann on it, something she called very “special.” Mahershala Ali made the first move with Marvel Studios and “Blade.” Comic-Con audiences learned on Saturday night that Ali would be playing the Marvel Comics character in a reboot. Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige says right after winning his second Academy Award for “Green Book” earlier this year, Ali set up a meeting with the superhero studio. Within 10 minutes, Ali asked what was happening with “Blade” and said he wanted to play him. Wesley Snipes played the half-vampire in three films for New Line Cinema and in a recent cameo in “What We Do in the Shadows.” Although there were rumors that Snipes would return over the years, nothing had officially progressed with the property on the big screen since the rights reverted to Marvel Studios in 2012. A federal judge has decided R. Kelly will remain in custody for sex-crime charges, shooting down the singer’s petition for bond at a Chicago courthouse Tuesday. Kelly pleaded not guilty on a 13-count indictment containing charges relating to child pornography, enticement of a minor, and obstruction of justice. “This risk of obstruction is real. This risk is ongoing. This risk is heightened by the defendant’s fame and power,” an assistant U.S. attorney said at the hearing, Variety reports. Kelly’s attorney Steven Greenberg said Kelly does not have the funds to flee, adding: “There’s no evidence that he’s a risk to minors at all at this point. The man’s entitled to be held in a humane situation.” Kelly, who was arrested last week while walking his dog, is also facing charges in the Eastern District of New York for alleged racketeering and Mann Act violations. Singer Lauren Daigle’s latest album, Look Up Child, has become the longest-reigning album on Billboard’s Top Christian Albums chart. The compilation spent 39 weeks on top of the chart, making it the longest reign in the Nielsen Music era. Look Up Child surpassed Switchfoot’s The Beautiful Letdown which spent 38 weeks on top of the Christian charts in 2004-05. Daigle’s LP debuted at No. 1 on the Top Christian Albums Chart in September 2018. It also reached No. 3 on the overall Billboard 200 chart following its release, beating out popular secular musicians such as Drake, Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj and Cardi B that week. The lead single from the album was, “You Say.” The songstress became the first female to have a song both on the Christian Airplay and Adult Pop Songs. At the time, “You Say” also entered its 18th week at No. 1 on the Christian charts which made it the longest reign for a female artist. Introducing:"Gospel Kids Present..." A New Animated YouTube Playlist for Your Little Ones! This animated music video showcases Sgt. Bernard as he leads group of kids through a series of fun, quasi militaristic excerises that they perform against the backdrop of a ferociously funky Hip-Hop styled spiritual track that would even make Kirk Franklin proud. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ytIH0gbCJA&feature=youtu.be Dale Anthony & Faith Out Loud’s newest single release, “Light In You,” is now available on all digital outlets. The inspiration gospel track, marks the first endeavor for the Bay Area native under his new distribution deal with IndieBlu Music/Entertainment One. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQDK6tcY8TE Award-winning famed Gospel icon Kurt Carr returns with a vibrant vocal musical extravaganza on his new album Bless Somebody Else available now. The pioneering two-time GRAMMY® nominated, Dove Award and multiple Stellar Award-winning Gospel Hall of Famer has created another soon-to-be classic album, delivering sixteen tracks filled with rousing vocal runs and cutting-edge melodic flourishes that have made him one of the most illustrious and enduring recording artists, songwriters and producers for the past three decades. Featuring The Kurt Carr Singers and special guests Miles Caton, Wess Morgan, Fred Hammond, Faith Evans, Yolanda Adams, Smokie Norful, Erica Campbell, Roosevelt Griffin, John P. Kee, Jekalyn Carr, Bishop Paul S. Morton, Keke Wyatt, Bishop T.D. Jakes, Denise Tichenor, and Zacardi Cortez on "Bless Somebody Else." For the past 20 years, Andrea René Williams has been known as a music industry professional (including a GRAMMY Awards Manager), an award-nominated Gospel music publicist and a faith-based marketer. As much as she has been honored to help others fulfill their goals of music ministry, she is now following her own dreams, stepping out as a Gospel Artist and presenting music that has been in her heart for years. Her first vocal single is entitled “Count It As Done”. The soaring power ballad encourages listeners to “speak and believe” over an orchestral bed of spirited and uplifting music. Pulling from sounds in Gospel, CCM, pop, and classical music, the track was produced by Williams’ own, Gotta Praise Productions, and was penned, arranged, performed, engineered and mixed by the artist herself. The single, from the forthcoming project, The Believe Album, is currently available on iTunes, Apple Music, Amazon and all other digital music outlets. THE LADIES OF SISTER CIRCLE This week, WELCOME SONGBIRDS LeTOYA LUCKETT AND MIKI HOWARD, GOSPEL ARTIST KURT CARR, Miki Howard AND MANY MORE! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SfdPgED2Vnc LIVING BY DESIGN WITH JAKE AND JAZZ returns on Saturday, July 20 at 12 p.m. ET/11C with Jake and Jazz Smollett upgrading a comedy couple's home into a chic space. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLJJ0WSzDEc&feature=youtu.be Don't miss the full and final third season of the popular comedic series THE UNWRITTEN RULES Sunday, July 21 at 9 a.m. ET/8C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ffHH8ycLxg&feature=youtu.be NEW MUSIC From Jabari Johnson, “Jesus” puts a spin on the classic “My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less.”. Take a listen to Jabari’s rendition. https://www.dropbox.com/sh/2jhzuow7bcbljxw/AADq5CdG2QJQH6ggkv_1UOAka?dl=0 Leah Oduro=Kwarten drops "He Worked It Out." https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/Leah-Oduro-Kwarten-He-Worked-It-Out-RADIO-ck7mUoXYEfsF65V496QQN Memphis Grizzlies center Dwight Howard has addressed rumors about his sexuality in an interview FS1’s Kristine Leahy. Howard is caught up in a sexual harassment lawsuit by a man who claims they had a romantic relationship. “I’m not gay,” Howard said on Fair Game with Kristine Leahy. “It’s a lot of people who are and they have to hide, and there’s people who have mental issues and they have to hide. There’s people who have different problems in life and they have to hide. They have to put on the mask every day, and it’s like, I don’t wanna wear no mask, I just wanna be.” As we previously reported, an openly gay man named Masin Elije filed a suit against Howard back in March, alleging the two dated before Elije eventually called it quits because Howard was allegedelly creeping with other men and trans women. Elije says Howard and his pastor, Calvin Simmons, tried to silence him with a non-disclosure agreement and “hush money,” per Newsweek. The four Democratic congresswomen — known as “The Squad” — who are at the center of President Trump’s racist tweets, sat down for an exclusive interview with “CBS This Morning” co-host Gayle King. Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts, and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan called the president’s rhetoric “a distraction.” https://youtu.be/OmrfiDbQvbk Ayesha Curry who's married to N BA superstar Steph Curry and a restauranteur, having recently opened the fourth location of International Smoke in Del Mar, California. Drops dance moves, the Milly Rock. People on social media are writing about it. They are sayin’ all kinds of stuff about her moves or lack thereof. Steph had enough of the insults. He took to social media to respond to the criticism by reminding the haters that even though she may not be able to dance the Milly Rock without looking crazy, she’s still Ayesha Curry and they aren’t. ?? “Slow news day today I see huh? Just make sure y’all send me the video of you dancing at your own restaurant opening,” he said. “‘Cause we gonna keep Milly Rockin’ until that happens, you know what um saying?” Steph and Ayesha are gettin’ love from folks. Vocal powerhouse, Michele Sweeting, has been dubbed “The New York City Songbird” because of her unique ability to deliver stunning performances. Whether it’s on stage in Detroit or Atlanta, or overseas in Russia or Egypt or at her home church in Manhattan, she is known for her soul-stirring musical presentations. A lover of God and worshipper at heart, Michele has been inspiring believers for decades with her unapologetic praise. The preacher of the Gospel, psalmist and recording artist has just added to her repertoire with a brand new track called “Only by Grace.” The song, a contagious melody of adoration, is currently available on iTunes, Amazon and all other digital music outlets. Beyonce's latest single, “Spirit,” from the movie’s soundtrack features Christian lyrics in honor of God and the African culture. “This soundtrack is a love letter to Africa. I wanted to make sure we found the best talent from Africa and not just use some of the sounds and did my interpretation of it,” she told ABC’s Robin Roberts during a primetime special Tuesday called “The Lion King: Can You Feel the Love Tonight.” “I wanted it to be authentic about what is beautiful about the music in Africa.” Beyonce unveiled the new video for her song, “Spirit,” during the ABC appearance. https://youtu.be/civgUOommC8 ; Former Boston Red Sox infielder Elijah “Pumpsie” Green, the first black player on the last major league team to field one, has died. He was 85. The Red Sox said Green, who lived in California most of his life, died Wednesday at in a hospital in San Leandro, near Oakland; no cause of death was immediately available. The team observed a moment of silence before its game against the Toronto Blue Jays. This past weekend, the legendary Patti LaBelle invited GRAMMY winning gospel star Le'Andria Johnson onstage at her concert in Philadelphia to join her and her band for their version of the Hezekiah Walker hit "Every Praise," which Patti features in her show. And Le'Andria, who is known for her powerful, soul stirring vocals, brought the house down! Patti also proclaimed that Le'Andria was the best singer she knows! https://www.dropbox.com/s/ezbc4k4rc3lm801/20190712_212720.mp4?dl=0 Meek Mill sat down with CBS This Morning’s Gayle King for an in-depth interview about his experiences with the broken criminal justice system, and how it has motivated him to push for reform. “If you take a drone right now in Philadelphia and you put it on the main line of the suburbs and you put it on the main line of the ghetto, you would see there’s two Americas,” he said of the sociopolitical layout of Philadelphia. “You would see chaos on one side and you would see people going to their mailboxes and kids coming from school on one side.” Meek also discussed how strict probation requirements affected his responsibilities as a father. https://youtu.be/mNLGxKS-cxw Is Beyonce’s song “Spirit” from “The Lion King” film and soundtrack bombing on the charts? Well, you could certainly make a strong argument that that’s the case. And if so, it will be a rare, rare miss for her. According to Roger Friedman’s Showbiz 411, at one point the song topped out at number 3 on the iTunes chart, but it’s a lot lower now. Friedman also points out that elsewhere, “Spirit” is invisible. It’s not on any Spotify streaming charts. On AppleMusic, “Spirit” isn’t on the USA top 50. It appears at number 92 on the Global Streaming chart for Apple Music. TV One's month of LOVE, LIES & MURDER movies continues with LOVED TO DEATH, debuting on Sunday, July 21 at 8 P.M./7C with an encore presentation at 10 P.M. The film stars Malinda Williams (Girlfriends' Getaway), MC Lyte (Girls Trip), McKinley Freeman (Hit the Floor), Tobias Truvillion (Empire) and Chrystee Pharris (Media). TV One's LOVE, LIES & MURDER films feature a series of stories that explore the dark side of love including deceit, betrayal, obsession and jealousy. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXtH_d6BiGg&feature=youtu.be She has made an iconic stamp in the gospel industry through her unique approach to gospel music and candid perspective in ministry. From the launch of her career in music, she keeps us eager for her next move. She is the Host and Vocal Coach on the new T.D. Jakes Talent Search, "The Gospel." Darlene McCoy drops "Walk." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iIZBtkHMpB0&feature=youtu.be The newly revamped “Sunday Best” premiered on BET and over the past several weeks viewers have been treated to the sweet sounds of the gospel singing competition for a new crop of talent after a four-year hiatus. One of the new judges is Kelly Price. She decides on hopeful gospel superstars alongside fellow new judge gospel musician Jonathan McReynolds and returning judge gospel singer Erica Campbell. Gospel star Kirk Franklin has also resumed his long-standing hosting duties. But while it makes sense for McReynolds, Campbell and Franklin to be part of the series, it might not be quite as obvious why Price would want to join it. “When I was offered this job, I was glad to take it because as a preacher’s kid, as a bishop’s granddaughter, I grew up in my grandfather’s church,” she tells Atlanta Black Star. “My mother was a choir director, y’all have ministers of music. … My mother was that in her father — my grandfather’s — church. FRESH START WORSHIP RETURNS WITH NEW SINGLE "HAVE IT ALL." Fresh Start Worship is comprised of Atlanta based group members: Chanda Mukula, Patrique Fortson, Ashley Hunter, Lauren William, Sarah Barnhill and Kevin McGee. All six group members, lead worship at Fresh Start Church in Duluth, GA under the leadership of Pastor Marquis Boone.? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y46s6IZPrxA&feature=youtu.be Meghan Markle, the duchess of Sussex, and her husband, Prince Harry, walked the yellow carpet at the “The Lion King” premiere in London on Sunday evening. Among the many stars in attendance wereBeyoncé, who voices Nala in the film, and her husband, JAY-Z — and they shared a magical moment with the British royals that has the internet abuzz. “My princess,” Beyoncé was recorded saying as she embraced Meghan. “We love you guys,” the singer reportedly told the royal couple. According to Entertainment Tonight, Bey was also overheard telling the former actress “the baby, so beautiful,” referring to Meghan and Prince Harry’s 2-month-old son, Archie. We are saddened by the news that Norfolk, VA native Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker, 55, died Sunday evening after being hit by a vehicle in Virginia Beach. Whitaker’s death was confirmed to WTKR-TV by a family member who said the Olympic gold medal winner and four-weight world champion was killed in the accident that happened around 10pm local time. Police said the driver of the vehicle that allegedly struck Whitaker stayed at the scene and is cooperating with officers. Whittaker graduated from Booker T. Washington high school before excelling globally as an amateur and professional boxer. Whitaker won an Olympic gold medal at the 1984 Olympic Games and winning gold at the 1983 Pan American Games. Professionally he become a champion in four different WBC weight classes including, Lightweight, Light welterweight, Welterweight and Light middleweight. Whitaker fought the likes of Oscar De La Hoya, Greg Haugen, Jose Luis Ramirez and Julio Casar Chavez. Prolific, singer-songwriter Brian Courtney Wilson announced his JUST B(E) Tour today following an exclusive announcement on Instagram. JUST B(E) will kick off on Friday, August 23 in Atlanta, GA at Center Stage with dates across the country including Charleston, Charlotte, New Orleans, St . Louis, Orlando, Philadelphia and others. This is Wilson’s first North American tour, and will play such venues as Knitting Factory in Brooklyn (September 4), as well as the House of Blues in New Orleans (September 8), and Houston (September 10) THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW 10 PM/9C on TV One. Featured guest this week is TV Personality star Tami Roman Monday, July 15, actress Malinda Williams Tuesday, July 16, hip-hop mogul Master P and son Romeo Miller Wednesday, July 17 and comedian Luenell on Thursday, July 18. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pW--Nf9MW-4&feature=youtu.be Dr. Earnest Pugh is getting ready for his OUTPOUR Live Recording set for August 2 at United Nations Church International in Richmond, VA. OUTPOUR is not only a live recording, but will also be an epic night of Praise and Worship delivered by one of Gospel music's most dynamic voices, Dr. Pugh. The event red carpet festivities will be hosted by SiriusXM personality Meta Washington. Meta will also serve as Mistress of Ceremonies for the main event joined by co-host Tiger Foote of WQCN "The Choice" 105.3FM Radio. Legendary singer and one of the original James Cleveland Singers Betty Griffin Keller and BET Sunday Best season four winner Amber Bullock will be featured as performers. For the first time in 10 years, celebrated vocal group Avalon's has released brand new music. The single,"Keeper of My Heart," is available NOW - via all digital outlets and on the radio. This is the first release from the award-winning band's highly-anticipated Red Street Records project, Called. R. Kelly has been arrested in Chicago on federal sex crime charges. The singer, 52, was arrested on sex trafficking charges by NYPD detectives and Homeland Security Investigation agents. The R&B star plead not guilty to 11 new sex assault charges last month. He hid his eyes behind dark sunglasses and made several strained expressions as he entered Chicago’s Leighton Criminal Court Building flanked by a large entourage for a status hearing in relation to a sexual assault case. Inside the court room, prosecutors handed over a DVD allegedly showing Kelly having sex with an underage female. The footage – thought to have been filmed in the 1990s – was obtained by lawyer Michael Avenatti back in February, and reportedly shows the singer sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl. In total, Kelly has now pleaded not guilty to 21 sexual abuse charges since February for his alleged abuse against four different women, three of whom were underage when the alleged crimes took place. Among the 11 new counts are four counts of aggravated criminal sexual assault, which carries a sentence of up to 30 years in prison. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com GROWNISH ACTOR TREVOR JACKSON, BASKETBALL STAR SHANNON BROWN, GOSPEL SINGER ANTHONY BROWN, Singer Anne Nesby, Gospel Singer Vashawn Mitchell AND MORE JOIN THE LADIES ON SISTER CIRCLE! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lxX2SJI2S0M The ESPY Awards, ESPN’s annual celebration of the best of the best in all things sports, were held Wednesday in Los Angeles. As we reported earlier, comedian Tracy Morgan was the host for the 27th edition of the event, which featured several big winners including Giannis Antetokounmpo for “Best Male Athlete,” Alex Morgan for “Best Female Athlete” and the U.S. Women’s National Team for “Best Team.” The Arthur Ashe Courage Award was presented to 85-year-old NBA legend Bill Russell, who was accompanied by his young wife Jeannine. The Hall of Famer won 11 championships in 13 seasons during his career and was also an activist for social justice in the ’50s and ’60s. Entrepreneur Miko Branch is highlighted on the season finale of the groundbreaking profile series CLEO SPEAKS, airing on Saturday, July 13 at 9 a.m. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9U_9MRjjqA&feature=youtu.be LIVING BY DESIGN WITH JAKE AND JAZZ returns on Saturday, July 13 at 12 p.m. ET/11C with home design stars Jake and Jazz Smollett revamping a growing family's new home. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hOwnsIJdyzo&feature=youtu.be Catch the full second season of the comedic series THE UNWRITTEN RULES premiering on Sunday, July 14 at 9 a.m. ET/8C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uG_5eUUgiNc&feature=youtu.be Bishop Paul S. Morton and The Full Gospel Ministry of Worship's soul-stirring, 14-track live album, "A Month of Sundays," has debuted at No. 2 on the Top Gospel Albums chart and the music trade's Gospel Album Sales chart. It has also hit No. 20 on the multi-genre Independent Albums sales chart as well. The effort boasts performances from Bishop William Murphy III (The dReam Center) to Bishop Joseph W. Walker III (Mt. Zion Nashville), Sheri Jones Moffet and Kierre Bjorn. Dr. DeForest Soaries, Jr. utilizes John 9 to show readers saying yes is possible, even when life is constantly saying no. "Say Yes When Life Says No" is a book that continues his witness to the power of God impacting the human condition. Everyone knows what it feels like when life continually throws challenges in the way, including pastor and community leader, Dr. DeForest Soaries, Jr., who received a life changing “no” when he was diagnosed with cancer. Drawing on his life experiences and the faith of the blind man in John Chapter 9, "Say Yes When Life Says No " shares with readers how to see every obstacle as an opportunity, every burden as a blessing, and how to say yes when life is constantly telling them no. Dr. Soaries outlines practical principles to help guide readers through life’s most difficult moments: loneliness, judgement, negativity, sickness, death, and more. When faced with generational inequality and a wealth gap that just gets bigger and bigger, the most important way to combat all of it is to just get started. “It’s not just about money. It’s about the economy,” said Bishop T.D. Jakes, the pastor, author and filmmaker who led a panel discussion for Essence Festival’s first-ever Global Black Economic Forum. Jakes was joined by Chase Consumer Banking CEO Thasunda Brown Duckett and Ram Palaniappan, the founder of Earnin, an app that allows workers to access the money they make as soon as they clock out of work every day. It’s not easy to back up against a system with an unequal foundation, the CEOs said, so it’s important to surround yourself with the people and experiences to help you do that. They also cheered the entrepreneurs in the room on to success. “The only difference between being buried and being planted is expectation,” Jakes said in closing. “You have to have this attitude: I have not been buried. I have been planted. I’m gonna come back.” Hip-hop and fashion trailblazer Kanye West revealed his submission to Christ has been instrumental in his mental health journey. The “Jesus Walks” rapper graces the cover of the August 2019 issue of Forbes and in an in-depth profile, titled “Kanye’s Second Coming: Inside The Billion-Dollar Yeezy Empire,” he opened up about his diagnosis with bipolar disorder and his successful Yeezy sneaker. When asked how he came back from that difficult season, West told Forbes it was “being in service to Christ, the radical obedience” that got him through. The 42-year-old also mentioned his faith when talking about his Athletic Shoe empire, Yeezy sneakers, which, according to Forbes, is expected to generate $1.5 billion in annual sales this year. West turned his life around. The Chicago native has also taken a step back from his regular outspoken rants on stage and social media to focus his energy on what he calls Sunday Services. William J. Barber II, pastor of Greenleaf Christian Church in Goldsboro, North Carolina, called Republican and South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott a “shame & a disgrace” for not opposing the inclusion of a controversial citizenship question on the 2020 census. Scott was standing next to Attorney General William P. Barr during a press conference Monday when Barr explained that his office was exploring all available options, including an executive order, to get the citizenship question on the census form despite the Supreme Court blocking its inclusion last month. A shame & a disgrace,” Barber, a liberal political activist and MacArthur “genius” fellowship recipient, said Tuesday morning in a tweet that has since gone viral with some 30,000 likes and more than 9,000 shares. GRAMMY nominated, Billboard Music Award Winner, and seven-time Stellar Award winner JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise are set to release their 10th album “Miracle Worker,” on July 26 via Hairston’s JamesTown Music, which is distributed exclusively by Entertainment One. Hairston’s 10th album will be accompanied by the release of a relationship book with his wife, Trina Hairston, titled, “A Miracle Marriage.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-DaM6033O8&feature=youtu.be Beyoncé has dropped a new original song from Disney’s live-action “The Lion King” titled “Spirit.” The track is part of an album called “The Lion King: The Gift” that Bey curated and performs on along with other artists. It’s set for digital release on July 11, with the physical album dropping July 19, the same night the film hits U.S. theaters. “This is sonic cinema,” Beyoncé said about the project. “This is a new experience of storytelling. I wanted to do more than find a collection of songs that were inspired by the film. It is a mixture of genres and collaboration that isn’t one sound. It is influenced by everything from R&B, pop, hip-hop, and Afro Beat.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXblqtzy_tE Michigan’s governor has signed legislation honoring the late Queen of Soul with a highway designation. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer Monday approved the bill to designate a portion of M-10 in Detroit as the “Aretha L. Franklin Memorial Highway.” Franklin died in Detroit last year after battling pancreatic cancer. The Democratic governor notes in a statement that Franklin’s “creativity and voice contributed to our musical and cultural history in Michigan.” Supporters of the designation say dedicating a portion of the highway is a way to honor the musical and cultural icon, who grew up in Detroit and learned the gospel fundamentals at New Bethel Baptist Church. A Disney-owned cable network has taken aim at critics who disagreed with the decision to cast Halle Bailey as Ariel in the upcoming adaption of “The Little Mermaid.” Freeform posted an open letter Sunday in support of Bailey after some on social media used the hashtag #NotMyAriel to object to a black woman portraying the red-headed mermaid princess of the animated film. But the network says “Danish mermaids can be black because Danish *people* can be black.” Bailey is half of the sister duo Chloe x Halle. She will star in the live-action version that will include songs from the 1989 animated Disney hit as well as new tunes from original composer Alan Menken and “Hamilton” creator Lin-Manuel Miranda. Bailey will join Jacob Tremblay and Awkwafina in the film. R&B icon Anita Baker once opened up about the pain she endured for years after learning her birth mother gave her up for adoption when she was a baby. During a 2009 interview with Essence, the songbird confessed that it took years for her to find peace about her mother’s decision. “Not because she was a bad person or because she was some monster or something. She was just a child and could not care for me. It has taken me a long time to find peace within my own heart. Baker was 13-years-old when she learned the woman she thought was her mother was actually her foster parent. Anita’s aunt, Lois Landry, who she grew up thinking was her older sister, was the one who dropped the bombshell about her birth after her foster mother Mary passed. Jay-Z is expanding his business portfolio by joining the California-based cannabis company Caliva as Chief Brand Strategist as part of a new multi-year partnership. The rapper detailed his role in a statement Tuesday, noting that he will help the company with creative decisions, outreach efforts and strategy — focusing on the social justice issues surrounding legalization, Rolling Stone reports. Per a statement, Jay’s efforts will include “advocacy, job training and overall employee and workforce development.” Anything I do, I want to do correctly and at the highest level,” Jay-Z said in a statement. “With all the potential in the cannabis industry, Caliva’s expertise and ethos make them the best partners for this endeavor. We want to create something amazing, have fun in the process, do good and bring people along the way.” Gospel music circles are abuzz with International and acclaimed Choir Director Chantel R. Wright releasing a new CD on LeChateau Earl Records. The six-song EP, Chantel R. Wright Presents Pneumatica: All We Need was released Friday, June 28th. Produced by Wright and group member Orson Benjamin, who co-wrote all the songs on the project, the EP features music by the new nine-piece vocal ensemble Pneumatica – an inspired youth-group off-shoot of her 60-member choir Songs of Solomon, also founded by Wright. All We Need is available on iTunes and Amazon, and other digital music platforms worldwide. The Philadelphia street sign recently presented to honor Patti LaBelle will be replaced this week after the city misspelled the singer’s name. A stretch of Broad Street in LaBelle’s Pennsylvania hometown, between Locust and Spruce streets, was renamed “Patti LaBelle Way” during a ceremony Tuesday. But the city’s Streets Department spelled the singer’s name incorrectly — with a lowercase “b” in her last name. Deana Gamble, a city spokeswoman, told The Philadelphia Inquirer the city was aware of the error and had plans to fix the street sign this week. A sign that LaBelle autographed during the ceremony had the correct spelling. LaBelle, 75, thanked fans who came out to the event, and reminisced about her parents walking down that very stretch of Broad Street. A New Orleans-based church owned by Solange has been ordered by the city to turn down the noise inside the Garden District place of praise and worship. According to NOLA.com, The First Christian Church was purchased for an undisclosed price by the Noble Jones Trust, and the paperwork was signed by one of its trustees: Vernell Jackson Keys. Keys is a close friend of the Knowles family, and in a 2015 Instagram post, Solange’s mother, Tina, described him as her “best friend since sixth grade.” The Orleans Parish Assessor’s Office also has on record the other property Noble Jones Trust owns at 927 St. Ann Str., which belongs to Solange. For Tracy Morgan, hosting The ESPYs is personal. It’s not just another gig to the comedian. The star of TBS’ “The Last O.G.” will preside over Wednesday night’s show honoring the past year’s top athletes, performances and achievements. It airs live on ABC from Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. “The main reason I really wanted to do it is the fight against cancer,” Morgan said in a recent phone interview, explaining that his grandparents and former wife, Sabina, died of the disease. “I have an opportunity to fight their cause and I’m all in.” Besides the laughs, The ESPYS raise awareness and funds for the V Foundation for Cancer Research. Last month marked five years since Morgan’s life-changing accident on the New Jersey Turnpike when the minibus he was riding in was rear-ended by a Walmart truck. The crash killed friend and fellow comedian James McNair. Bobby Brown broke down in tears over daughter Bobbi Kristina during his performance with RBRM at the Essence Festival on Saturday night. The R&B icon took a moment to honor his loved ones and shared some touching words for his late daughter. “I keep one of my kids right here with me,” Brown said revealing a pendant worn around his neck in her honor, per essence.com. “Her name is Bobbi Kristina.” “I keep all of [my kids] close to my heart, but this one right here,” he added, “she stays around my neck and right there near my heart.” The premiere of TV One's original biopic THE BOBBY DEBARGE STORY on Saturday, June 29 debuted at #1 on television (broadcast and cable) among African Americans: P25-54, W25-54, P18-49, and W18-49. The four airings of THE BOBBY DEBARGE STORY during premiere weekend had a combined reach of 1.8 Million Unique Viewers 2+. The film ranks as TV One's #4 Original Movie premiere in the network's history among P25-54, W25-54 and viewers 2+. The network's top original films, also biopics, include WHEN LOVE KILLS: THE FALICIA BLAKELY STORY(#1), LOVE UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT: THE MIKI HOWARD STORY(#2) and BOBBI KRISTINA(#3). https://youtu.be/y3-Ho6GSzZ8 Multiple Stellar and Dove Award winner, and GRAMMY nominee, VaShawn Mitchell returns with prolific new album ELEMENTS. In commemoration of his storied, and successful 20-year career Mitchell offers ELEMENTS as the culmination of the full breadth of his music journey. With a fusion of pop, rock, gospel and that signature Chicago Gospel sound that has defined him,ELEMENTS is a beautiful representation of Mitchell’s continued evolution in music. ELEMENTS is Mitchell’s first album in three years. Thomas Andrew Dorsey, the celebrated African-American musician who is known famously as “the father of Black gospel music” was born on this day in 1899. Dorsey, a composer, pianist, conductor and conductor of choirs, was a man believed to have used music as the language of his soul. Dorsey is known for composing songs such as “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” and “Peace in the Valley”. He was so influential in the black gospel music field and due to his impact and unique style, many new compositions of songs were categorized as “dorseys” in his honor. Thomas Dorsey’s leadership in Gospel music is believed to be responsible for the rise of the gospel sound and the legacy carried on by present-day Gospel artists. The OWN series shared a trailer and premiere date, Sept. 3, for the fourth season of the drama series on Wednesday. The preview shows Lady Mae (Lynn Whitfield) and her daughter Grace (Merle Dandridge) fight to reclaim their church from Harmony & Hope Ministries and Bob Whitmore (Beau Bridges). Bishop James, meanwhile, attempts to mend his relationship with Mae. Desiree Ross co-stars as Sophia Greenleaf, with Lamman Rucker as Jacob Greenleaf, Kim Hawthorne as Kerissa Greenleaf and Deborah Joy Winans as Charity Greenleaf. Deadline reports Greenleaf averaged more than 2 million viewers in each of its first three seasons. The show moves from Wednesday to Tuesday nights for Season 4. https://youtu.be/M1frc6I16HI “Spider-Man: Far From Home” swooped in to dominate the July Fourth holiday weekend, raking in an estimated $185.1 million since opening in North America on Tuesday and earning $93.6 million from Friday to Sunday. The opening gave Sony Pictures one of its best weeks ever. “Far From Home” has grossed $580 million worldwide in 10 days of release. It also came with an assist from Disney’s Marvel Studios, which has partnered with Sony on this and its previous “Spider-Man” release. Stevie Wonder surprised concertgoers in London Saturday night by announcing that he will take a break from performing so that he can receive a kidney transplant this fall. The 69-year-old music legend made the announcement after performing “Superstition” at the end of a packed British Summer Time concert in London’s sprawling Hyde Park. He said he was speaking out to quell rumors and sought to reassure fans that he would be okay. “I’m going to be doing three shows then taking a break,” he said. “I’m having surgery. going to have a kidney transplant at the end of September this year.” Before “Crowns: A Gospel Musical” got underway, Vintage Theatre had already asserted its transformation from theater to church, delivering a winking pre-curtain recording. “Turn off your cellphones. Turn off your cellphones” — sung to the tune of “Wade in the Water” – “God’s gonna trouble your cellphone.” It was Sunday and the women onstage dressed the part and sang with fearsome beauty. Many of the songs that Velma (Mary Louis Lee), Mabel (Jasmine Jackson), Mother Shaw (Rajdulari), Wanda (Sonsharae Tull) and Jeanette (Adrienne Martin-Fullwood) sang struck familiar chords. Their gestures captured the choreography of generations of black churchgoing folks and even more deeply rooted processions. The ensemble makes clear that a great deal of life unfolds beneath those brims. Life uplifted by love and faith, but also pricked with loss. What’s that line? “I’ll cling to that old rugged cross and exchange it someday for a crown.” Zoe Kravitz has tied the knot with actor Karl Glusman (both pictured center) at her father Lenny’s home in Paris. The couple exchanged their vows in front of a star-studded guest list, a month after legally marrying in secret, reports People. It comes as many of the stars were seen arriving for the intimate ceremony in Paris on Saturday, with other guests including Big Little Lies co-stars Nicole Kidman (left) and Reese Witherspoon (second left). Actor Denzel Washington (right) and supermodel Cara Delevinge (second right) also attended along with Eddie Redmayne and his wife Hannah Bagshawe. Zoe and Karl tied the knot in Lenny’s 18th Century Parisian mansion, which boasts a staggering eight bedrooms and three stories. It was previously reported that Zoe and Karl have already tied the knot in secret, but were hosting the ceremony in France to remarry in front of their family and friends. Zoe and Karl were introduced via her friend at a bar, and the actress admitted she was originally just looking for a fling. Reach Records artist GAWVI shared the best advice he ever got on balancing success and family life while on the road. GAWVI, 30, and his Reach Records family: Lecrae, Andy Mineo, Tedashii, Trip Lee, KB, 1K Phew, and WHATUPRG just wrapped up their Unashamed Tour where he showcased his talents as an artist. After almost a decade of making chart-topping hits as a hip-hop producer, in 2017 GAWVI released his debut album “We Belong,” and followed up the album with his singing debut “Panorama,” which he called a “big transition.” Part of his transition now includes two small children and being intentional about spending more time with his family, which he described as “amazing.” “Family is definitely a blessing. My daughter, now she’s 3 years old, little Giana, she’s my heart. Then, my son, he’s 1 year old now, Camilo, he’s my buddy. Then me and my wife. We just completed five years. So it’s been amazing,” GAWVI gushed. THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW Monday through Thursday at 10 PM/9C on TV One. Featured guest joining D.L. in the studio this week is comedian Ian Edwards on Monday, July 8, actor Michael Jai White on Tuesday, July 9, actress A.J. Johnson on Wednesday, July 10 and comedian/writer Buddy Lewis on Thursday, July 11. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7T8ttkFGk3k&feature=youtu.be Michelle Obama dished with “CBS This Morning” co-host Gayle King at the Essence Festival in New Orleans Saturday night. During their candid conversation, the former first lady opened up about her marriage, the advice she gives her daughters as well has her historic time in the White House. https://youtu.be/g3y3YFaaloQ Well, it was nice while it lasted, but it’s all over now. Teen tennis sensation Cori “Coco” Gauff‘s stunning streak at Wimbledon came to an end on Monday when she was eliminated by Romanian Simona Halep. Her loss in the fourth-round match ended 6-3, 6-3, which means 15-year-old Gauff has been eliminated from a spot in the quarterfinals. It could be said that Miss Gauff was way over her head going into the match on Monday, seeing as Halep, who won last year’s French Open, was the world’s No. 7-ranked women’s singles player. Remember, going into the tournament, Gauff was only ranked at No. 139. “I tried my best today but it wasn’t meant to be … thank you London,” Gauff posted to her Instagram stories less than an hour after losing, accompanied by a picture of her grinning and waving as she left the court. SINS OF THE FATHER features Deitrick Haddon, A.J. Johnson, Clifton Powell, Terayle Hill and Angela Davis. The movie follows Clarence Burnett (Haddon) a pastor in Atlanta who's happily married to Karen (Davis). The couple's world is torn apart when Karen is brutally murdered outside their Atlanta home, sending shock waves through their close-knit community. Deitrick has dropped a new radio single, "Open Door Season." FlashBack Deitrick Haddon!!! Hear Deitrick Haddon In His Own Words......http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/deitrick_haddon.htm JAKE AND JAZZ TRANSFORM A HOME INTO A TRANQUIL RETREAT ON THE NEXT EPISODE OF LIVING BY DESIGN WITH JAKE AND JAZZ. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c10y5Pn8WpM&feature=youtu.be The popular digital series THE UNWRITTEN RULES makes its highly anticipated debut on CLEO TV. Based on the book authored by series creator Kim Williams, "40 Hours and an Unwritten Rule: The Diary of a Nigger, Negro, Colored, Black, African-American Woman," THE UNWRITTEN RULES examines the comedic realities of being an African-American at a predominantly white company. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uG_5eUUgiNc&feature=youtu.be Damon Little's "Be Alright" is moving up the charts. Check it out. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3jFWCwXaA-c Recording artist Ladonna Lynn has taken a splash in the gospel music scene with her new single "He's Able". This gospel ballad finds Lynn singing her belief in a God that is able to meet her needs and allow her to overcome any challenge. “He’s Able” fuses R&Barrangements, a touch of Jazz improvisation & some gospel infused keyboards with vocal work from an artist whose life lines up with the words she sings. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGi43QKASLY&feature=youtu.be&utm_source=Gospel+Central+Media&utm_campaign=124598d94e-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2019_07_04_04_21&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_e930d0cd50-124598d94e-241881717 SISTER CIRCLE SPECIAL GUESTS this week: RAPPER/ACTOR COMMON, ACTRESS YARA SHAHIDI, Iyanla Vanzant, Actors Roshon Fegan and Adrian Marcel, Karrueche Tran and many more! SINS OF THE FATHER features Deitrick Haddon, A.J. Johnson, Clifton Powell, Terayle Hill and Angela Davis. TUNE-IN: TV One’s Original Film SINS OF THE FATHER premieres Sunday, July 7th at 8 P.M. ET/7 C. You have seen her in "House Party," "Baby Boy" and several toher movies as well as TV shows. Sunday night A. J. Johnson will appear in "Sins Of The Father." Hear A. J. Johnson In Her Own words......http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/ajjohnson_intvw.htm Brian Sledge, better known as singer and songwriter BJ the Chicago Kid, wrote the song from a track produced by Cedric “Ced” Smith. BJ and I have known each other for years. As soon as he shared the lyrics with me, I knew it was special.” A wordplay on the classic protest anthem “I Shall Not be Moved,” “Won’t Be Moved” is about not letting the tribulations of life get the better of you. “I want ‘Won’t Be Moved’ to become the next catch phrase,” Gene Moore said. Meet Gene Moore Inside The Gospel Spotlight. Hear Him In His Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/genemoore_intvw.htm The Northern Delaware Chapter GMWA Recording Choir drops "All Of My Help." https://www.dropbox.com/sh/qlc4mn9hdy3bpag/AAD9DrAozbiM1wmjk8JGPqtUa?dl=0&preview=Northern+Delaware+-+GMWA+-+All+of+My+Help.mp3 "Are You Ready For Your Blessing" is new from Mack Holland....https://www.amazon.com/Are-You-Ready-Your-Blessing/dp/B07H3FMF4P/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=mack+holland&qid=1561426746&s=gateway&sr=8-2 “The Real” co-hosts shared their views on whether it’s OK to watch church services online or best to attend services in-person during a recent episode of the daytime talk show. https://youtu.be/44sAGfbm9gM Heiress Gloria Vanderbilt reportedly left almost all of her estate to her youngest son, CNN’s Anderson Cooper. According to Page Six, Vanderbilt—who died at the age of 94 last month after being diagnosed with advanced stomach cancer—gave nothing to her estranged middle son, Chris Stokowski, and only left her eldest son, Leopold “Stan” Stokowski, her property in Midtown Manhattan. It is not clear how much Cooper will receive, but her fortune is reportedly estimated to be worth $200 million. Chris Stokowski cut ties from the family about four decades ago, reportedly over a dispute with Vanderbilt’s psychiatrist. The annual Gospel Celebration on Sunday is a true highlight of the ESSENCE Fest weekend. This year, as part of our range of citywide experiences celebrating 25 years of ESSENCE Fest moving the culture forward, it be celebrating 25 years of Black women in Gospel music with Yolanda Adams, Donnie McClurkin, Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Mary Mary! Part of the beauty of the genre is the consistent presence of immensely talented Black women whose powerhouse vocals are second to none. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com The Grammy® Award nominated gospel troupe, ANTHONY BROWN & group therAPy – best-known for their No. 1 hits "Worth" and "Trust in You" - have leapt into the Top Ten of Gospel Airplay and Hot Gospel Songs charts with their Go-go-flavored urban inspirational single, "Blessings on Blessings." It's the group's eighth Top Ten entry, climbing from No. 12 to No. 10 this week while also muscling its way from No. 8 to No. 4 on the Hot Gospel Songs hybrid chart for the week ending July 6th. The up-tempo track anchors the group's forthcoming album,'Second Wind," which is tentatively scheduled for an October 2019 release. Concurrently, a deep-club remix and music video of the song entitled, "Blessings on Blessings (The B.O.B. Bounce)," has introduced a fun, festive new Christian line dance – The B.O.B. Bounce - that has sparked"numerous online challenge videos. The concept music video premiered on the group’s YouTube channel on June 21st and accumulated over 500,000 views in its first week. The feel-good jam and video are available on all major digital music service platforms. The concept music video premiered on the group’s YouTube channel on June 21st and accumulated over 500,000 views in its first week. http://smarturl.it/BlessingsOnBlessings The 19th Annual African Pride Gospel SuperFest TV spectacular presented by The Cartwright Family Foundation wrapped production in Dayton, Ohio at the Schuster Performing Arts Center. Hosted by NAACP Image® Award-Winning Actress Wendy Raquel Robinson, the star-studded, sold-out celebration of Gospel music is set to air on TV One in August 2019. During the event, Pastor Donnie McClurkin and The Rance Allen Group received the Founder's Award for Lifetime Achievement for their trailblazing and transformative music and ministries. The evening’s lineup included Deitrick Haddon, LeAndria Johnson, Tye Tribbett, Ricky Dillard & New G, J. Moss, Bri, Tonya Baker, Byron Cage, Isabel Davis, Jonathan Nelson, Demetrius West, 21:03, Ted Winn, Sensere, Zacardi Cortez, Doe Jones and many other "surprise" special guests. TUNE IN to TV One Sunday, August 25 @ 7:00 PM/ET to see the spectacular show. TV One & Entertainment One Nashville hosted an exclusive screening of the highly anticipated original film "SINS OF THE FATHER" at the Cinevision in Atlanta on Monday night. SINS OF THE FATHER features Deitrick Haddon (The Gospel), A.J. Johnson (Baby Boy), Clifton Powell (Ray), Terayle Hill (Merry Wishmas) and Angela Davis (I Feel Pretty). The movie follows Clarence Burnett (Haddon) a pastor in Atlanta who's happily married to Karen (Davis). The couple's world is torn apart when Karen is brutally murdered outside their Atlanta home, sending shock waves through their close-knit community. VIP's in attendance included film cast members Deitick Haddon, Angel Love, Terayle Hill,Clifton Powell, film director James Hill and Swirl Films' Keith Neal. Deitrick also gave guests a first listen at his new radio single, "Open Door Season." Larry Crider is passionate about worship. His love for God and gifting for music merge into a dynamic music ministry known as Larry Crider & 4 H.I.S. Glory. Larry and his singers are noted for blending smooth harmonies, superior songwriting, riveting vocal performances, and great musicianship. Larry and 4 H.I.S Glory (Honor In Song) is a ministry dedicated to uplifting the spirit of God and pointing listeners in the direction of salvation through Jesus Christ via their music. They have a new musical offering, "The King Is In The Room", that is a sweet and soul-stirring ballad sure to ignite worship and usher in the presence of the Lord. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGHW318K9Dk&feature=youtu.be Pharrell Williams surprised over 100 high school graduates in Harlem when he granted them each internships during the summer after their first year of college. The Grammy-winning producer was a keynote speaker at the graduation ceremony for the 2019 class of the Harlem Children’s Zone Promise Academy. During his speech, he promised the 114 graduates internships opportunities. https://youtu.be/KPCseRKxr2g “American Factory” will be the first project released globally under the Obamas production deal with Netflix. The original documentary is set to debut on the streaming giant on August 21, presented by Barack and Michelle’s Higher Ground Productions and Participant Media. Under the terms of their Netflix deal, the Obamas will produce “scripted series, unscripted series, docu-series, documentaries and features” that highlight diverse voices in the entertainment industry. “American Factory” won the Directing Award: U.S. Documentary at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival. Directed by Academy Award nominees Steven Bognar and Julia Reichert with Steven Bognar, Julia Reichert, Jeff Reichert and Julie Parker Benello producing, the doc takes place in post-industrial Ohio, where “a Chinese billionaire opens a new factory in the husk of an abandoned General Motors plant, hiring two thousand blue-collar Americans. Early days of hope and optimism give way to setbacks as high-tech China clashes with working-class America.” Comedian/TV/Radio/game show host Steve Harvey made a commitment to pay the tuition for eight incoming freshmen at Kent State University. Kent State in Ohio and the university, via a release, said that The Steve & Marjorie Harvey Foundation has worked with Kent State University to provide scholarships of about $23,000 per student. The students must maintain a 2.5 grade point average for the scholarships to be renewed each semester. The scholarships are in memory of Devin Moore, a Kent State student from Cleveland who died in 2017 while playing basketball at a university center. The university says the foundation also committed $10,000 to Kent State’s Men Empowerment Network. Kirk Franklin, Tasha Cobbs Leonard and More Deliver Enlightening Insights for July on the Hit Show "Money Making Conversations," Hosted by Rushion McDonald Get the real-life stories and insights that have been a driving force to creating success this month from the July lineup of celebrities, CEOs, business innovators, and more joining Rushion McDonald on "Money Making Conversations." A two-time EMMY®-winning producer, social media influencer, entrepreneur, and branding guru, Rushion McDonald sparks illuminating conversations with power players who impact the world on his hit show "Money Making Conversations." "Money Making Conversations" can be heard every Monday live on Atlanta's biz1190-AM from 10AM-Noon ET and Sundays at 4PM ET. Tauren Wells recently led a crowd of young adults in a live worship performance of “Great Are You Lord.” Wells performed last week at the 2019 Hope & Life Conference at Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJtvIj0hdVA In the first episode of the two-part season finale of “Keeping Up with the Kardashians” which aired Sunday on E!, Kanye West admitted that he always hoped to open a church and is now on course to do so. West began Sunday Service meetings that his wife, Kim Kardashian West, described as a “spiritual Christian experience” this year. As of now, the events happen every Sunday and include gospel music but omit preaching. Stephen Curry may be a sharpshooting three-time NBA champion, but he is quickly building a career away from the court to inspire the masses through his burgeoning production company. The Golden State Warriors superstar is strategically producing content that focuses on sports, family and faith through Unanimous Media, which he co-founded with Jeron Smith and Erick Peyton. The newly formed production company already has several projects under its belt including a major studio film, network television show and a couple documentaries in just a year. The 31-year-old player said he wants to “uplift people who need to be uplifted.” Even though Idris Elba isn’t trying to become the next James Bond, he’s disheartened that some people don’t think he should be considered for the spy role because he’s black. The British actor says in the August issue of Vanity Fair that it’s frustrating that there are people who say ”‘It can’t be.’ And it really turns out to be the color of my skin.” Some have speculated that the “Luther” star would make the perfect Bond. Elba says although Bond is a coveted, beloved character that he would be fascinated to play, he doesn’t need to put himself in the position of questioning whether a stint as Bond did or didn’t work “because of the color of my skin.” Elba stars in “Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw” due in theaters in August. Dance to a new-ish Whitney Houston song this weekend. Houston originally released a cover of Steve Winwood’s “Higher Love” as a Japan-only bonus track on her 1990 album “I’m Your Baby Tonight,” but the song has been given an upbeat, dance remix by Norwegian DJ-producer Kygo. The new version of “Higher Love” was released digitally on Friday. Winwood’s original version was released in 1986 and hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. https://youtu.be/dTYOkcRH220 Tyra Banks wants you to smile with your eyes-cream. The supermodel, 45, coined the phrase “Smize” (or, “smile with your eyes”) back in her days as host of the popular reality competition series America’s Next Top Model. And now, she wants to apply the term to what appears to be a new line of ice cream. According to a listing United States Patent and Trademark Office, Banks’ company applied on June 21 for the ownership of the term “Smize Cream.” Back in May, while covering the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover for the first time, Banks spoke out about how the dessert helped her embrace her changing figure. The Lion King doesn’t open in theatres for another three weeks but Disney’s remake is already setting records. Movie ticket service Fandango is reporting that, based on the first 24 hours of pre-release ticket sales, the film is outpacing any other Disney reboot of its animated classics. The website tweeted, ‘#TheLionKing is already taking its throne,’ along with a graphic showing The Lion King beating out the live action adaptations of Beauty And The Beast and Aladdin. If projections hold true, The Lion King is set to be another billion dollar hit for Disney when it opens in theaters on July 19. TV One's original film SINS OF THE FATHER premieres Sunday, July 7 at 8 P.M./7C. The film stars Deitrick Haddon (The Gospel), A.J. Johnson (Baby Boy), Clifton Powell (Ray), Terayle Hill (Merry Wishmas), Angela Davis (I Feel Pretty) and Danny Pardo (SEAL Team). SINS OF THE FATHER is the first movie to kick off TV One's month of LOVE, LIES & MURDER films which features a series of stories that explore the dark side of love including deceit, betrayal, obsession and jealousy. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lTYNfx-metQ&feature=youtu.be Returning from its four-year hiatus, America’s most inspirational singing competition, “Sunday Best,” makes its triumphant return to BET on Sunday, June 30th at 8/7c with two brand-new back-to-back episodes. The gospel show welcomes back Grammy Award®-winning music legend Kirk Franklin as host, gospel songstress and host of "Get Up Mornings," Erica Campbell as a judge; and added two Grammy-Award® nominated artists Kelly Price and Jonathan McReynolds as new additions to the judges panel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWrb5nyKltU&feature=youtu.be Today on The Tom Joyner Morning Show, Tom introduced listener favorite Rickey Smiley as the successor to the morning anchor position established by Tom over the course of 25 years. Joyner, who is retiring at the end of the year, acknowledged that Smiley has established himself as a trusted leader on-air and in the community with his current show, captivating audiences with his authentic humor but also his unique perspective on topics important to his audience. Smiley also announced that Eva Marcille and Gary Wit Da Tea would be among the on-air cast members joining him to broadcast out of the Dallas studios beginning January 2020. THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW Monday through Thursday at 10 PM/9C only on TV One. Featured guest joining DL in the studio this week is comedian/writer David Arnold on Monday, July 1, comedian/actor Bob Saget on Tuesday, July 2 and actor/director Bill Duke on Wednesday, July 3. The series will not air on Thursday, July 4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=639MLwFFP84&feature=youtu.be Larry D. Reid drops "Smile" video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iKV8o1LswwU&feature=youtu.be The still-unidentified woman who drove the getaway car of Nipsey Hussle‘s alleged killer, Eric Holder, is scared she’s could be the victim of a retaliation hit. The woman, only identified as “Witness 1” in court documents expressed serious concern for her safety on multiple occasions. An LAPD detective associated with the case says he investigated her claims and discovered numerous legitimate threats made against the woman. It seems the woman has a legitimate fear because according to the detective, during his grand jury testimony, told the grand jury her license plate was making the rounds on social media shortly after the shooting. Descriptions of her physical appearance and her vehicle were also on the Internet — all of which essentially gave vigilantes a road map to find her. When the McKellan family moves from Seattle to Georgia to be closer to extended family, the transition is like being a catfish out of water. From 3 hour church services and huge humidity hair to M'Dear's home cooking and family bonding, the everyday ups and downs of Family Reunion are real, memorable, toe tapping, heart stopping, laugh out loud authentic moments. https://youtu.be/dQMinvdSMrM As friends, family and well-wishers from across the globe sent birthday greetings via social media to the iconic pastor, revered preacher, noted Stellar Award-winning Gospel singer and recording artist, civil rights leader and humanitarian Reverend Clay Evans on his 94th birthday this past weekend, Dr. Zach Mills shared in the joy of celebration as his book, The Last Blues Preacher took top honors in the Biography category at this year’s International Book Awards. "The Last Blues Preacher: Rev. Clay Evans, Black Lives, and the Faith that Woke the Nation" details Reverend Evans’ early days growing up in the south and experiencing racism first hand, his family’s migration to Chicago and his early days in ministry. The book pulls on candid and sentimental interviews from many of Reverend Evans siblings and close associates including historical figures like Nation of Islam leader Minister Louis Farrakhan, Fr. Michael Pfleger, former presidential candidate, founder and president of the Rainbow Push Coalition Rev. Jesse Jackson, former Chicago mayor Richard M. Daley, Congressman Bobby Rush, and former Illinois governor Pat Quinn. Chicago is considered one of the most dangerous, crime-ridden cities in the United States. Here is an amazing story of transformation and new beginnings in that city. Pastor Wilfredo “Choco” de Jesus and his New Life Covenant Church are making a difference in the heart of Chicago—to the point that crime has dropped as much as 42% in one area as a result of their influence! His church bought a grocery store/liquor store in a high-crime area. As a result, today there is a medical clinic in that location. And because the church has taken dominance, the crime rate has plummeted! Pastor Choco’s upcoming book, "Love Them Anyway," will come out next year. Tyler Perry received the “Ultimate Icon Award” at the BET Awards last weekend and delivered a moving acceptance speech that ended with the filmmaker giving glory to God. Introduced by actress Taraji P. Henson, also a professing Christian, Perry honored his mother and all black women, saying that his first 10 movies were meant to tell them, “you’re worthy, you’re special, you’re powerful.” The visionary shared a story about helping a man cross the street as a child that remarkably impacted the rest of his life. Perry began hiring people such as Henson, Viola Davis, and Idris Elba as a way to help them cross over in their careers. https://youtu.be/DVjjSxpqbOo The 2019 ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Awards was an authentic celebration of the biggest ASCAP hip-hop, R&B and Gospel music of the past year. Koryn Hawthorne’s inspirational anthem “Won’t He Do It” was named Top Gospel Song and the evening was highlighted with a rousing performance from Jekalyn Carr. After four years as Associate Professor of the Practice of Organizational Studies at Duke, popular Christian author and speaker Dr. Christena Cleveland resigned via an open letter posted to her Patreon in which she accuses Duke of “anti-Black racism.” The essay recounts her experience of watching Duke’s basketball team defeat a smaller, less well-funded historically black school called Livingstone College and feeling like it was a metaphor for her time at Duke, during which she observed what she calls “overwhelming institutional racism.” Cleveland says she tried to bring up her concerns with the dean and explain that it was “negatively impacting my transition as a new Black faculty member as well as the transitions of the new Black students”, but says she was told “some people just aren’t cut out to be faculty at Duke Divinity School. It sounds like you’re one of them. I want to give you permission to leave.” It was previously announced that the upcoming sixth season of the Courtney Kemp created and Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson executive produced crime drama “Power” will be the last for the hit Starz series. But on Tuesday, 50 took to social media to announce a seventh season. “I Changed my mind POWER is not going to be over after season 6.” This news surely surprised fans, and possibly Kemp and the folks over at Starz, who in May, officially announced that the series would end after the upcoming sixth season. KEYONDRA is one of the original members of gospel group Z'iel and shares the accomplishment of two-time Stellar Award Nominee. Lockett drops new single,“I Got Jesus.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IyN046X253g JONATHAN MCREYNOLDS VISITS "HOME & FAMILY" on behalf of Season 9 of BET Sunday Best & his album "Make Room" Tuesday, June 25th 10am/9c on Hallmark Channel. Motown's ongoing 60th anniversary celebration will culminate in September with a full weekend of festivities celebrating the Detroit born musical legacy billed as Motown Weekend. Topping the Motown Weekend agenda is a Sept. 22 event at Orchestra Hall dubbed Hitsville Honors, where seasoned Motown performers including theTemptations, Four Tops, Mary Wilson and Martha Reeves will be joined by later-generation artists such as Big Sean, Kem and Ne-Yo, paying tribute to label founder Berry Gordy Jr. Hitsville Honors will also bestow awards on other dignitaries and musical figures. The R&B Hall of Fame will honor Aretha, Stevie Wonder, Eddie Kendricks and Berry Gordy. Also planned will be a free Sept. 21 gospel concert featuring Regina Belle, Tye Tribbett, Tasha Page-Lockhart and Kierra (Kiki) Sheard, The performance will be held at Detroit World Outreach in Redford Township. Grammy-winning duo For King & Country recently teamed up with a couple of unlikely collaborators—indie-pop band Echosmith and producer Timbaland—for a remix of their hit single “God Only Knows.” Timbaland is a secular producer, rapper and DJ who has worked with Jay-Z, Ludacris, Rihanna, Drake, Justin Timberlake and many more. Check out the official lyric video for the new remix. https://youtu.be/HlvnYkBbZXc Seasoned gospel recording artist and producer, Jason Clayborn, and his group, The Atmosphere Changers, have dropped their debut Tyscot Records radio single, “Praise Belongs to You.” The soul-stirring praise and worship declaration came to Clayborn in a dream. “I always write what God puts on my heart,” he explains. “Like when I wrote `Better’ for Hezekiah Walker or `I Survived It’ for Ricky Dillard, it’s always where I am or where I feel people are in life and in their relationship to God. Kirk Franklin performed his #1 hit “Love Theory” with special guests Jonathan McReynolds, Erica Campbell and Kelly Price live at the 2019 BET Awards. https://youtu.be/sWrb5nyKltU RCA Inspiration hails a win at the 2019 BET Awards, with Snoop Dogg’s hit (feat. Rance Allen) “Blessing Me Again,” taking home the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel / Inspirational Award. The 19th Annual BET Awards were simulcast live from Los Angeles, Sunday June 23rd across BET, BET HER, MTV, MTV 2, MTV Classic, VH1, and Logo networks. FlashBack Gospel Spotlight! Hear Rance Allen In His Own Words......http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/rance_intvw.htm Tasha Cobbs Leonard continues to break barriers as she takes over NPR’s renowned Tiny Desk Concert today. The GRAMMY winner makes her debut on Tiny Desk with standout performances of her hit songs “Break Every Chain,” “You Know My Name,” and “River of the Lord.” Cobbs Leonard was honored last night at ASCAP’S Rhythm & Soul Awards for her hit “I’m Getting Ready” and her single “You Know My Name.” https://www.npr.org/2019/06/24/734566352/tasha-cobbs-leonard-tiny-desk-concert Today, RCA Inspiration introduced a new digital series, Verity Presents V.H.S. (Video Heritage Series). RCAI created the Video Heritage Series, which is available on the RCA Inspiration YouTube channel, to highlight gospel as a corner stone of all popular music and the multi-talented artists who create it. Verity Presents V.H.S. commenced with the full-length concert from 14-time GRAMMY® winner and music icon Kirk Franklin’s groundbreaking debut album, Kirk Franklin & The Family. And playlists featuring vintage concert and performance footage of various Verity artists will be uploaded regularly. THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW WELCOMES COMEDIAN/ACTRESS SHERRI SHEPHERD, COMEDIAN MELANIE COMARCHO PLUS ACTOR ROSHON FEGAN AND GOSPEL SINGER DEITRICK HADDON OF TV ONE'S ORIGINAL FILMS THE BOBBY DEBARGE STORY AND SINS OF THE FATHER. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzX-CqO7SDw&feature=youtu.be Her gift has opened many doors, and she is privileged to sing with the legendary Edwin Hawkins as part of the New Edwin Hawkins Singers. Lena also has shared the stage with such luminaries as Tye Tribbett, Lalah Hathaway, Deitrick Haddon, Dorinda Clark-Cole, John P. Kee, Doobie Powell, the late Thomas TC Clay and more. Lena Byrd Miles drops new single "This Is The Day." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTSLYlc1qWQ Sunday, June 23rd at 3 PM EST / 2 PM CST, 14-time GRAMMY® winning artist Kirk Franklin will debut his first-ever VEVO live performance for the song “F.A.V.O.R.”. He is the first Gospel or Christian music artist to tape a Vevo Original, which are artists’ unique, live renditions of their songs. The “F.A.V.O.R.” live performance will premiere and be featured on the Kirk Franklin YouTube channel. “F.A.V.O.R.” is one of ten tracks from Franklin’s new album, LONG LIVE LOVE. Anthony Brown "Blessings On Blessings (The B.O.B. Bounce) is the feel good 'line dance' song of the summer. It brings together a positive message and infectious 'gogo' sound that is sure to breathe life into any party or gathering. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p58HS6h3l10 Motown Gospel rising star, Gene Moore releases his newest single, “Won’t be Moved” co-written by BJ the Chicago Kid and the official music video directed by famed photographer/director Derek Blanks. A wordplay on the classic protest anthem “I Shall Not be Moved,” “Won’t Be Moved” is about not letting the tribulations of life get the better of you. “I want ‘Won’t Be Moved’ to become the next catch phrase,” Gene said. “‘I had a bad day, but I won’t be moved.’ ‘My coworker is trying my patience, but I won’t be moved.’ ‘I’m having money issues, but I won’t be moved.’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFd6Krk3l04 Gospel's Leading Man, Dr. Earnest Pugh invites the public to his next epic Gospel music event. His OUTPOUR Live Recording is set for August 2 atUnited Nations Church International in Richmond, VA where Bishop Orrin K. Pullings, Sr, and Dr. Medina S. Pullings are Pastors. OUTPOUR promises to be a night of freely flowing worship and spirit-filled Gospel music at its best. Returning from its four-year hiatus, America’s most inspirational singing competition, “Sunday Best,” makes its triumphant return to BETon Sunday, June 30that 8/7c with two brand-new back-to-back episodes. The well-established gospel show welcomes back Grammy Award®-winning music legend Kirk Franklin as host, gospel songstress and host of "Get Up Mornings," Erica Campbell as a judge; and added two Grammy-Award® nominated artists Kelly Price and Jonathan McReynolds as new additions to the panel. With a brand-new stage and exciting themed challenges, this season has narrowed down the competition to 20 finalists. The new season kicks off for the first time ever with in-person auditions in front of the judges, with no audience. The contestants have to show their true talent, with no smoke and mirrors, by performing acapella with no band support, as they narrow the field from 20 to the top 10. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L54XOao-Zo8&feature=youtu.be TV One returned to Miami as a sponsor of the 23rd Annual American Black Film Festival with a slate of exclusive events. The action-packed weekend kicked off with an advanced screening of the highly anticipated biopic THE BOBBY DEBARGE STORY. TV One's events continued with the festival highlight Celebrity Scene Stealers which featured a table read of scenes from a TV One project in development - "Don't Waste Your Pretty" - based on Demetria L. Lucas' popular dating manifesto. Hosted by TV Personality Tanika Ray, the table read featured Fegan, Chyna Layne and Malinda Williams. Layne and Williams play leading women in two upcoming original films IN BROAD DAYLIGHT and LOVED TO DEATH, premiering on TV One on Sunday, July 14 at 8:00 P.M. ET/7C and Sunday, July 21 at 8:00 P.M. ET/7C. Six-time Grammy Award winner BeBe Winans’ “Born For This: A New Musical,” received five NAACP Theatre Awards on Monday in Los Angeles. The musical garnered 13 nominations for the Los Angeles production and won 5 in categories. Best Playwright, Larger Theatre: BeBe Winans & Charles Randolph-Wright Best Musical Director, Larger Theatre: Charles Randolph-Wright Best Lead Male, Larger Theater: Juan Winans Best Supporting Female, Larger Theatre: Nita Whitaker Best Music Director, Larger Theatre: Jared Landon See you in New Orleans at Feed the Multitudes Festival Thurs, July 4th & Victory Fellowship Sun, July 7th! Join Angelo & Veronica in New Orleans! Feed the Multitudes Festival Thurs, July 4th at 12pm Noon. This is a free event w/ free food, free new shoes, free manicures, free haircuts, free sno-balls, free bag of groceries going down at Victory Fellowship, Metarie, La. ATL-based singer/songwriter, Daya Lorin drops new single ’I’m So Free.’ A throwback tribute to the Washington, DC-birthed "Go-Go” music style, ’I’m So Free’ reminds us of our freedom in Christ. She desires that her music will minister to the body of Christ and strengthen it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oUF1kc2kDrY Beloved St. John Evangelistic Church drops a joint to encourage the world with whatever you're going through, Jesus is the one that can heal all that hurts you. Just keep sending the praises to Him, and his presence comes down and fights for us, because the battle is not ours but the VICTORY is!! You can make it with Jesus!! https://www.dropbox.com/sh/wb4tvhp12to93l5/AAAU0sAAfyZXnFAIhuwJDIAEa?dl=0&preview=Beloved+St.+John+Evangelistic+Church+-+I+Can%27t+Make+It+Without+You.mp3 JOANNA HALE-MCGILLis a Praise & Worship leader of His Will Worship Center. Joanna has always served in music ministry throughout her life and she currently serves as Assistant to the Pastors and Church Administrator at His Will Worship Center in Slidell, Louisiana. Check her new joint out......https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0j1aRq671c Jussie Smollett is in the crosshair’s of a Chicago judge who on Friday appointed a special prosecutor to look into the actor’s case which could mean new charges against him. In other words, Smollett has a whole new reason to be concerned because he could actually be prosecuted for allegedly faking the now infamous attack on the streets of Chicago. Smollett was never acquitted or found guilty of a crime, so he could still be tried in the case. The judge (Michael Toomin) also ruled that State’s Attorney Kim Foxx did not have the legal authority to “colloquially recuse” herself and appoint her top deputy — Assistant State’s Attorney Joseph Magats — in her stead, the Tribune’s report stated. Steve Harvey’s third-annual Sand and Soul Festival was set to go down this fall at a Dominican Republic resort where at least 2 U.S. tourists have died in the last year. But according to INSIDER, the event is being relocated amid concerns over the safety of tourists in the country. The event was set to be held October 10 to October 14 at the all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Punta Cana. As reported by Business Insider, David Harrison, 45, of Maryland died at after falling ill while he was vacationing at resort last July. In April, Robert Bell Wallace, 67, of California, died at the same resort after he became ill from consuming a drink from his hotel room minibar. DJ Nicholas drops new song "Mercy." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qa_7bB3Ioe4&feature=youtu.be&mc_cid=08ace4b085&mc_eid=408626ee0f JAKE AND JAZZ TRANSFORM AN APARTMENT INTO AN ARIZONA DESERT COTTAGE ON THE NEXT EPISODE OF LIVING BY DESIGN WITH JAKE AND JAZZ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i-Fv-xPZH3Y&feature=youtu.be SISTER CIRCLE WELCOMES "LOVE AND HIP HOP: ATLANTA'S" FAVORITE COUPLE BAMBI AND LIL SCRAPPY, R&B ARTISTS RAHEEM DEVAUGHN, MONIFAH,RUSSEL TAYLOR PLUS MORE SPECIAL GUESTS! Thirty-five A-listers will be added to the Hollywood Walk of Fame next year, as the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce’s Walk of Fame Selection Committee announced on Thursday the list of actors, entertainers and musicians who are set to receive the honor. Dave Chappelle, Julia Roberts, Chris Hemsworth, Spike Lee, Octavia Spencer, Mahershala Ali, Ruth E. Carter, Wendy Williams, Andy Cohen, Christina Applegate, Dr. Phil McGraw, Laurence Fishburne, Terry Crews, Cindy Crawford, Kathie Lee Gifford, in addition to late comedian Andy Kaufman and the superhero character, Batman. Alicia Keys, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Elvis Costello, Bobby Rydell, and the late Muddy Waters, are among the recording artists who will be honored for their contributions in music. Only two stars are being added for the theater and live performance category, comedian Dave Chappelle and Pose star Billy Porter. Global United Fellowship (GUF) Presiding Bishop Neil C. Ellis says that the mandate of Global United Fellowship is to “be different” in its approach to uniting the Body of Christ and equipping church leaders with the tools necessary to build and maintain healthy churches. Therefore, GUF distinguishes itself as not another church denomination but a fellowship of church. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wixpVQ3t-e8 “MAKING ROOM FOR US” is an uplifting declaration that reassures, empowers and motivate listeners with the energetic testimony of inspired hope. The lyrics on “MAKING ROOM FOR US” serve to strengthen the listeners’ faith. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnPLVfqJq6U A group of enthusiastic worshippers from Tennessee and Western Kentucky frequently gather together to sing Gospel music. Their love for music and ministry led to the group becoming a nationally recognized choir with an album release (THE GOSPEL OF TENNESSEE, 2015) and hit radio singles. With founder and front man Jeff Wilford, The Volunteer State Mass Choir (VSMC) continues to create and release a dynamic sound of Zion. The latest single from VSMC is "Waiting On You". https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vWsE0H6nn9U&feature=youtu.be RCA Inspiration (RCAI) joins forces with the 13th annual McDonald’s Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour and Dr Pepper® this year to spotlight undiscovered talent and empower local communities with celebratory Golden Voice Talent Showcases and in-depth Master Classes in select cities. Local talent in each city will audition for a chance to perform at Golden Voice Talent Showcases in Atlanta and Tallahassee, where they will have the opportunity to win the night’s top prize. The Master Classes will be two-hour sessions delivering an inside look of the music industry from McDonald’s Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour talent, with classes being held in Atlanta, Washington, D.C. and Tallahassee. Deitrick Haddon is back at radio with an up-tempo feel good single "Open Door Season". Haddon has delivered hit singles like "Be Like Jesus", "A Billion People",and "Glory". "Open Door Season" doesn't disappoint. Haddon is a master at infusing biblical truth with beautiful harmonies, funk, soul, and memorable lyrics. “Open Door Season” will be available for pre-order and pre-add Friday 6.21. Vocalist TAMIKA PATTON has power, range, passion, poise, and presentation! She has incredible talent and anointing from God alone! She now offers a new Gospel summer jam! Her new single "I Love To Praise" is a soulful, urban praise track that is becoming popular within the Gospel industry and with fans. https://soundcloud.com/the-bellamy-group/tamika-patton-i-love-to-praise SISTER CIRCLE WELCOMES A STAR-STUDDED LINE UP THIS WEEK WITH GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING ARTIST KIRK FRANKLIN, ACTRESSES ESSENCE ATKINS AND BRELY EVANS, PLUS MORE SPECIAL GUESTS! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EW4hRWxFsMk&feature=youtu.be Some high-profile names are taking part this week in efforts highlighting criminal justice reform. Yusef Salaam and Raymond Santana, two of the five men exonerated in the 1989 brutal assault of a jogger in New York’s Central Park, and author and activist Michelle Alexander will be among speakers during a series of events on the criminal justice system at Ebenezer Baptist Church. They will join the Rev. Raphael G. Warnock and others as part of several days of events addressing the issue of ending mass incarceration. Alexander is the author of “The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness.” Rapper, actor and activist T.I. joined Warnock for a press conference Sunday, June 16. Both are participating in a massive Freedom Day Bailout and expungement campaign during the End Mass Incarceration Conference that will be held Monday through Wednesday. They were cleared years later after another man, Matias Reyes, confessed to the crime and his DNA matched evidence found at the scene. Season 6 Sunday Best winner Tasha Page Lockhart married Pastor T. Vernon House on Saturday in Westland, Michigan. The couple were married at Burning Bush International Ministries, which is gospel group Shelby 5’s father’s church. The siblings also performed during the ceremony, along with Yolanda Adams, Travis Malloy, McKenzie Thomas, and Alysa Morgan. During their reception, the newlyweds danced to Chrisette Michele’s “A Couple Of Forevers.” FlashBack Gospel Spotlight. Hear Tasha Page Lockhart In Her OWN Words.....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/tashapagelockhart_intvw.htm It’s a girl for Christian singer Jamie Grace and husband Aaron Collins! The couple welcomed their first child together, Isabella Brave Harper Collins, on June 7th. Jamie Grace shared the exciting news on her social media account. “Exactly 7 pounds, 20.5 inches and every bit of lovely. With two middle names like her Southern mama and deep brown eyes like her charming dad, she is oh so loved more than she will ever know,” Jamie wrote on Instagram. Baby Isabella already has an Instagram account with over 13k followers! Hosted by CLEO TV and Spectrum, the CLEO SPEAKS: SHE SPEAKS. WE LISTEN tour made its first stop in New York City at the Helen Mills Event Space and Theater. The event included a panel discussion moderated by Tracy Garraud, Co-Host of Sway in the Morning and Founder of She's Beauty and the Beast with featured panelists Natasha Alford, Deputy Editor of the Griot; Necole Kane, Founder of xoNecole.com; and Charreah K. Jackson, author and CEO. A special screening of Garraud'sCLEO SPEAKS episode was also highlighted. Speaking on the evening's topic "Finding Yourself After Failure," the women touched on a myriad of issues including insecurities, the power of writing affirmations, fear, overcoming cancer, rebounding from financial hardships, chasing dreams, setting expectations, enduring unsatisfying relationships and much more. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTIKQnDPKRI&feature=youtu.be Jay Z has hired a lawyer for the family who were nearly killed by Phoenix Police Officers over a $4 doll their toddler took from a store. The family has filed a $10 Million lawsuit against the city, and Jigga is doing his part to help dismantle the KKK culture with the department. According to AZCentral, the rapper’s philanthropic organization within his entertainment company ROC Nation has secured high-profile attorney Alex Spiro, who is demanding the termination of the race soldiers who threatened to kill the family. Spiro has also announced plans to file a lawsuit against one of the officers for child neglect, NewsOne reports. Viral video of the May 29 incident shows Phoenix police officer Christopher Meyer screaming threats and profanity toward a family in a van; Dravon Ames, 22, his pregnant fiancé Aisha Harper, 24, and their two young daughters. “You’re gonna fucking get shot!” the cop yells at one point. “I’m gonna put a fucking cap in your fucking head.” New details have emerged in the shooting of three-time World Series champ David ‘Big Papi’ Ortiz. The Daily Mail previously reported Ortiz was shot over an affair with the wife of a jealous drug lord, and model Maria Yeribell Martinez Garcia is believed to be at the center of the love triangle. She was reportedly filmed fighting another woman at Dr. Abel Gonzalez Medical Center, the Dominican hospital where Ortiz was taken for surgery. Garcia has denied any romantic involvement with Ortiz but he reportedly bought her a $85K Lexus RX a day before he was shot. The nine suspects allegedly involved in the shooting have been indicted. They are being sent to four different prisons “in order to protect the integrity of the investigation” and could be held for up to a year, the Boston Globe reports. BET will honor slain rapper and visionary Nipsey Hussle with a posthumous Humanitarian Award this weekend. Regarding his award, Connie Orlando, head of programming at BET, said in a statement: “As a prolific artist and leader, Nipsey Hussle was zealous about driving change for the betterment of his community, empowering and employing those in need and being an influential and highly respected leader.” She added that Hussle’s death was a “tremendous loss” to the entertainment industry and black culture, and added, “We will continue to remember his advocacy and be inspired by the groundwork he set forth and his dire commitment to social change.” Sought for three days for questioning on a sexual-misconduct allegation, Cuba Gooding Jr. voluntarily surrendered Thursday to New York police, was arrested and charged with a misdemeanor count of "forcible touching" involving an accusation he groped a woman's breast in a New York bar Sunday. Gooding was charged by the Special Victims unit after he turned himself in and was questioned at a police precinct. Gooding pleaded not guilty and was arraigned Thursday. He was released without bail; his next court date is June 26. News video posted on Twitter earlier Thursday showed police walking a cuffed, smiling Gooding out what appeared to be a back door of the precinct. Raven-Symone‘s alter ego, Raven Baxter, has been a staple on The Disney Channel since the child actor turned Hollywood renaissance woman debuted her famous character on the hit show, That’s So Raven, in 2003. Back then, Symone’s alter-ego played a teenager who could see into the future, and that extra-sensory ability often landed her in some comical hot water. It’s anyone’s guess if a three-year-old Raven-Symone, who came to national attention as precocious Olivia on The Cosby Show, could have predicted this kind of career longevity? The character of Raven Baxter was given new life with Symone’s second Disney show, Raven’s Home, in which her character Raven Baxter is a woman with two kids, navigating all that comes with single motherhood and forging her own path as a fledgling fashion designer. Now, going into its third season, Raven’s Home will be tackling some interesting twists and turns as the kids start their own music group, Raven Baxter continues with the launch of her fashion line and roommate and co-parenting partner, Chelsea, finds her niche as a life coach. Aside from plenty of interesting guest stars in the third season of the show, Raven-Symoné makes her Raven’s Home directorial debut this season. 25 years after the grisly murder of his ex-wife Nicole Brown and her friend Ron Goldman, O.J. Simpson says he is now living a drama free life, one he has dubbed “no negative zone.” Simpson tells The Associated Press he nor his children want to recall that tragic June 12, 1994 night – when Nicole and Ronald were killed and the beloved Pro Football Hall of Fame hero became a murder suspect. “We don’t need to go back and relive the worst day of our lives,” Simpson said. “The subject of the moment is the subject I will never revisit again. My family and I have moved on to what we call the ‘no negative zone.’ We focus on the positives.” July 4th, A CAPITOL FOURTH continues its 39-year tradition of celebrating the nation's independence on the West Lawn of the United States Capitol building. Two-time Emmy Award-nominated actor and producer John Stamos returns to host the country's longest-running live national July 4th TV tradition. A CAPITOL FOURTH's family-friendly Independence Day celebration will commemorate the country's 243rd birthday with all-star musical performances. The 39th annual edition of A CAPITOL FOURTH will feature: Carole King with the Broadway cast of the Tony, Grammy and Olivier Award-winning musical BEAUTIFUL starring Vanessa Carlton, Lindsey Stirling, Keala Settle, Vanessa Williams, Lee Brice, Colbie Caillat, Yolanda Adams, 2019 AMERICAN IDOL winner Laine Hardy, Angelica Hale (AMERICA'S GOT TALENT) and this year's winner of THE VOICE (Season 16), Maelyn Jarmon. The concert will also feature a special treat for the entire family, with Big Bird, Abby Cadabby, Rosita, Elmo, Grover, Bert & Ernie from SESAME STREET. Bishop Oliver Clyde Allen, III thought-leader and best-selling author of Master Your Emotions, is assembling both national and global leaders and entrepreneurs for the 2019 iElevate Conference held June 18th-23rd at the Westin Atlanta Perimeter North Hotel and The Vision Cathedral of Atlanta, where he serves as Senior Pastor. Hundreds are expected to hear from prominent leaders and influencers on topics of social relevance. This year’s conference theme is “Image It. Risk It. Do It. It’s Worth It.” Conference Special Guests Include Rev. Al Sharpton, Loni Love, Bevy Smith, Amiyah Scott, Princess Banton-Lofters, Venny Etienne, Antonio Brown & More. Special Musical Guests Include: Sheri Jones-Moffett, Michelle Prather, James Hall and The Vision Cathedral of Atlanta Choir. Pope Francis decreed the “heroic virtues” of the first African-American Catholic priest, thereby bringing a man who was born into slavery in the 19th century a step closer to becoming the first African-American saint. The Rev. Augustus Tolton, who was born a slave in Missouri in 1854, will henceforth be known as “venerable” due to the papal decree, which the Vatican announced on Wednesday. Father Tolton studied at a seminary in Rome after being rejected by every American one to which he applied—was ordained in the Italian capital in 1886 and served in Chicago, where he oversaw the construction of a church for black parishioners on the city’s South Side and where he died of heat stroke in 1897. The “Men in Black” franchise has a new recruit who isn’t a man and actress Tessa Thompson is fine with keeping the masculine-centered film title — for now. Joined by co-star Chris Hemsworth on a black carpet, Thompson shrugged off the gender issue at the world premiere of “Men in Black: International” in New York. Thompson cited her co-star Emma Thompson, who reprises her role in the series, as a voice of reason when it comes to gender equality and representation. Thompson and Hemsworth step into the roles Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones made famous. In the sequel, the duo continues to deal with attacks around the world while searching for a mole in the organization. “Men in Black: International” lands in theaters on Friday. Dave Chappelle will make his Broadway debut this summer. Chappelle will perform five shows at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, from July 9 through July 13. The theater this spring has become home for music acts like Morrissey, Yanni and Regina Spektor making their Broadway debuts. Chappelle received Grammy Awards for best comedy album in 2018 and 2019. He won his second Emmy for Outstanding Variety Special with “Equanimity” in 2018. Lee Daniels, the co-creator and executive producer of Empire, has said he’s “beyond embarrassed” for backing actor Jussie Smollett after he claimed he was the victim of a racist and homophobic attack in January. “I’m beyond embarrassed,” the Oscar-nominated director said. “I think that when it happened, I had a flash of me running from bullies. I had a flash of my whole life, of my childhood, my youth, getting beaten.” Daniels says he still has “some doubt” that Smollett would stage the incident. “Of course, there’s some doubt,” he said. “I’m telling you that because I love him so much. That’s the torture that I’m in right now, because it’s literally if it were to happen to your son and your child, how would you feel? You would feel, ‘Please, God, please let there be that glimmer of hope that there is some truth in this story.’ That’s why it’s been so painful. It was a flood of pain.” The Cartoon Network is the latest company to celebrate LGBT Pride Month, and it’s using one of its most popular animated shows to do it. The Network’s Facebook and Twitter accounts posted a message June 2 alongside a picture of the Powerpuff Girls telling viewers, “We want to wish everyone a HAPPY PRIDE and encourage all of our LGBTQ+ fans to stand proud all year long!” Powerpuff Girls consistently ranks as one of the most-liked shows among viewers. The social media posts showed eight characters from the show standing underneath a rainbow with the message, “Happy Pride.” The Twitter message includes the hashtags “#pride #happypride #powerpuffyourself #pridemonth #powerpuffgirls.” TV One hosted an exclusive screening of the highly anticipated original biopic THE BOBBY DEBARGE STORY at the Woodruff Arts Center in Atlanta Tuesday night. THE BOBBY DEBARGE STORY explores the tumultuous life of the former lead singer of the 70's R&B/Funk Band Switch, also the eldest sibling of the world-famous pop group DeBarge. Cast members in attendance included the film's lead star Roshon Fegan (Bobby DeBarge), Tyra Ferrell (Etterlene DeBarge), Adrian Marcel (James DeBarge), Big Boi (Berry Gordy) and Lloyd (Gregory Williams of Switch). The film's director Russ Parr, Executive Producer Eric Tomosunas and Keith Neal. VIP's in attendance Pat 'Sleepy' Brown, Lisa Wu, Terri J. Vaughn, Clifton Powell, Vina Mills, B5, Juicy, Tray Chaney, Final Draft, Brely Evans and more. Michael B. Jordan told the men known as the Central Park Five that he cannot watch footage of the new series “When They See Us” without getting emotional and feeling like as a young black man he too could have faced a similar ordeal. “It’s dangerous in America when you’re living in a black body,” Jordan said. Jordan praised the men — Yusef Salaam, Antron McCray, Kevin Richardson, Raymond Santana, and Korey Wise — for their perseverance and courage during a luncheon in which the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California honored Netflix’s series about their case. The series has re-ignited outcry about how the case was handled. Linda Fairstein, the Manhattan sex crimes prosecutor who observed the teenagers’ interrogation, has faced backlash for her role in their conviction. Fairstein has already resigned from at least two nonprofit boards as backlash intensified and a #CancelLindaFairstein movement spread on social media. When the McKellan family moves from Seattle to Georgia to be closer to extended family, the transition is like being a catfish out of water. From 3 hour church services and huge humidity hair to M'Dear's home cooking and family bonding, the everyday ups and downs of Family Reunion are real, memorable, toe tapping, heart stopping, laugh out loud authentic moments. The cast includes Loretta Devine (M'Dear), Tia Mowry-Hardrict (Cocoa), Richard Roundtree (Jebediah), Anthony Alabi (Moz), Talia Jackson (Jade), Isaiah Russell-Bailey (Shaka), Cameron J. Wright (Mazzi) and Jordyn Raya James (Ami). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J4eHcqKh-X8&feature=youtu.be An update on the shooting of ex-Boston Red Sox player David “Big Papi” Ortiz. Local police in the Dominican Republic say was a sophisticated hit-job. They say it involved two cars which staked him out before he was shot by a man on a motorcycle Sunday night as he had drinks at the Dial bar in Santo Domingo. Two men, Eddy Feliz Garcia (the motorcycle driver) and Oliver Moisés Mirabal Acosta (the shooter), have been arrested. Before the incident happened, Acosta was video’d as he drove around in a Hyundai and was seen speaking to other men. He then approached Ortiz on the bicycle and shot him, according to police. GRAMMY® Award winning artist, songwriter and producer Kirk Franklin’s new album LONG LIVE LOVE debuted at #1 on the Top Gospel Album’s chart, at #2 on the R&B Albums chart and #20 on the Top 200 chart. LONG LIVE LOVE also amassed more than 4.3 million streams in its first week. The singles “Love Theory” and “OK” sit at the #1 spots on the Hot Gospel Songs, Gospel Airplay, Gospel Digital Song Sales and Gospel Streaming Songs charts. And “Love Theory” is currently #4 on the Adult R&B Songs chart. Franklin is currently preparing for his 26-city LONG LIVE LOVE TOUR, that kicks off July 11th in Austin, TX. Franklin host the ninth season of Sunday Best, when it returns to BET on June 30th. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Some families pass down recipes or pocket watches but Dr. Leonard Scott – an Indianapolis-based dentist since 1973, has passed down a passion for teeth. Not only is he a leader in his field but his commitment to it has influenced two generations of his own family to follow in his footsteps. Scott’s daughter, Melanie was attending her dad’s alma mater when she met her husband Duane Bennett II who is now a dentist with two offices in the suburbs of Washington, D.C. Now, the third generation of Scotts' in dentistry has begun with Dr. Leonard Scott’s granddaughter, Brook Scott, who graduated from Indiana State a few weeks ago and was hooded by both her grandfather and aunt. “I decided when I was 13 that I wanted to be a dentist,” she says. “ It started with me hanging around my grandad’s dental office. He has always been so good with his patients and they always left the office happy and satisfied… Now, I enjoy being able to remodel smiles and rebuild confidence.” She has joined the family practice which is aiming to expand nationally. Meanwhile, Dr. Scott, who has over 20 million digital streams under his belt, has a new single, “Holy Spirit.” Founded in 1967 by the Rev. James Cleveland, the Gospel Music Workshop of America is annual convention bringing together people who love Gospel music from America, Europe, Asia, Africa and the Caribbean including a wide range of faiths. Its annual Board Meeting and Summer Convention are held in various cities across the United States. This year, the annual board meeting will be taking place in Los Angeles, California and the annual Summer convention will be taking place in Washington, D.C. United Alliance Music Group (UAMG) in partnership with Sony Music/The Orchard introduces UAMG’s associated client and Lunjeal Music Group’s flagship artist, 7-time Billboard #1 artist, multiple GRAMMY and Billboard Music Award nominated artist Jekalyn Carr’s “I See Miracles” concept music video. Filmed in HD and shot on location in New Orleans, Louisiana, The 22-year-old chart-topper, GMA Dove Award winner and four-time Stellar Award winning independent artist- songwriter released her first-ever concept video Monday, June 3, 2019 on her official YouTube channel and has generated upwards of 100K views in less than a week. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pDsY8PL_uyw BlackSmoke Music Worldwide's newest artist, Edwrin Sutton & Kingdom Culture are set for a LIVE RECORDING of their freshman project Friday, June 7th 2019 at Beulah Baptist Church in Poughkeepsie, NY. Producing this inaugural album is Stellar Award Nominated Artist Demetrius West whose "Open The Floodgates" has been riding high on the charts. Former Boston Red Sox slugger and Dominican star David Ortiz is out of surgery and doing “fine,” according to his family, after he was shot Sunday at a club in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Ortiz’s media assistant, Leo Lopez, told ESPN’s Enrique Rojas that Ortiz is stable but still in intensive care. “Doctors say he is out of danger, but he is heavily sedated and will be in intensive care for the next 24 hours,” Lopez said. The operation lasted six hours and was performed by three doctors, led by Dr. Abel Gonzalez. The team had to remove part of Ortiz’s intestines and colon, as well as his gallbladder. Ortiz suffered liver damage. Authorities say Ortiz was ambushed by a man who got off a motorcycle and shot him in the back at nearly point-blank range around 8:50 p.m. local time Sunday at the Dial Bar and Lounge in Santo Domingo. The gunman was identified as Eddy Feliz Garcia, 25, according to police spokesman Col. Frank Duran Mejia. Dominican National Police Director Ney Aldrin Bautista Almonte said Garcia was captured and beaten by a crowd of people at the bar. He suffered a cranium contusion and trauma to his thorax, left knee and right leg, according to the Dominican Republic’s National Health Service. He was treated at the Dario Contreras Hospital in Santo Domingo and then released to police custody. Denzel Washington said his ‘biggest lifetime achievement’ is his wife of 35 years, Pauletta. The star was being honored on Thursday evening at the AFI Awards in Hollywood.The 64-year actor added that he is also proud of his four children. He has John David, 34, Katia, 32, and 28-year-old twins Olivia and Malcolm with his spouse. https://videos.dailymail.co.uk/video/mol/2019/06/07/2816538229212136227/1024x576_MP4_2816538229212136227.mp4?_=1 It's the Musical Soul Food Festival (MSF Fest) Saturday, June 21-22, 2019 at Chesapeake City Park in Hampton Roads. GRAMMY® Award winner Fred Hammond headlines the show. This year’s star-studded line-up includes Kurt Carr, Dr. Juanita Bynum, James Fortune, The Brown Boyz, Earl Bynum, Lucinda Moore, Joshua Rogers, Tamyya J, Bishop Leonard Scott and many others. The fest kicks of June 21st with the MSF Comedy Jam & Family Fun Night hosted by Ace Alexander. The free event will include performances from comedian Akintunde, live DJs, The Brown Boyz and Tamayya J. along with Prizes, giveaways and family games. Jonathan Nelson returns with a fresh new single that is guaranteed to resonate with listeners everywhere! In “Jesus, I Love You” Nelson emphasizes that because of Jesus’ abundant love for His people, in return they should echo that same love back to Him. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JldO0o8up5I&feature=youtu.be Keyondra Lockett drops I GOT JESUS from Keyondra's latest Chart Topping album, “The Heal" which debuted in the Top 10 on the Gospel Albums Chart ! https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/Keyondra-Lockett-I-Got-Jesus-RADIO-lokeK29PlHtPsDwMHaHHx CLEO SPEAKS returns on Saturday, June 8 at 9 a.m. ET/8C with Questlove Supreme podcast co-host/producer Laiya St. Clair and media maven/entrepreneur Kela Walker. Jake and Jazz Smollett bring new beginnings to a millennial's life by transforming her living space on the next episode of LIVING BY DESIGN WITH JAKE AND JAZZ airing at 12 p.m. ET/11C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7t3y9BP6wMg&feature=youtu.be This week the Lovely Ladies Of Sister Circle Welcome Cast Members from TV One's The Bobby DeBarge Story, Co-Host of CLEO TV's New Soul Kitchen Chef Jernard, R&B Veteran Johnny Gill, "Star's" Amiyah Scott and Many More! One of gospel music’s top singer/songwriters, Renee Spearman releases the highly-anticipated follow-up to “whoa to WOW!” Renee’s new hit CD “I LOVE HIM” features an all-star cast including Hezekiah Walker, Dorinda Clark-Cole and many others. A sophisticated blend of praise & worship, contemporary gospel and traditional gospel, “I LOVE HIM” is the new powerhouse release by Grammy & Stellar nominee Renee Spearman! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKpTEnCzASE GRAMMY nominated, Billboard Music Award Winner, and seven-time Stellar Award winner JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise are set to release their 10th album “Miracle Worker,” on July 26 via Hairston’s JamesTown Music. Hairston’s 10th album will be accompanied by the release of a relationship book with his wife, Trina Hairston, titled, “A Miracle Marriage.” JJ Hairston and his wife Trina will be releasing a relationship book titled, “A Miracle Marriage,” on the same day as his 10th album, giving fans a balanced dose of knowledge and inspiration. The book is a simple guide on how millennial couples can learn to make their marriage work in today’s society. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-DaM6033O8&feature=youtu.be Prominent choir master Zak Williams and his high-spirited ensemble of singers and musicians have not released an album since their acclaimed THE DECLARATION "LIVE FROM PHILLY" in 2006. Gospel music fans have waited patiently while Zak Williams and 1/AKORD have been preparing for their forthcoming album Dr. Alyn E. Waller Presents THE NEXT CHAPTER. Zak invites the public to witness their return to Gospel music with THE NEXT CHAPTER Concert going down Friday, June 7, 2019 at Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, Philadelphia, PA. Zak and 1/AKORD will be singing some of the songs from the forthcoming CD. The Bay Area kicked off Black Music Month with a gospel music tribute to Pastor Shirley Caesar and Psalmist Chrystal Rucker, celebrating their impact and influence on the industry. The Team Honors was held June 1st at the Union City Apostolic Church, hosted by gospel trailblazer Lynette Hawkins-Stephens and Evangelist Jacquelyn Melton. As a special treat, Rucker performed her latest single “Take Your Burdens,” soon to be released on digital platforms this summer. With her mother, daughter, and additional family in attendance, Rucker began to speak on her appreciation for the honor and privilege of being honored alongside Pastor Caesar. Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, released a report last year about its connections to slavery, has denied a request from an interracial ministers coalition to financially support a nearby black college as a form of reparations. EmpowerWest, a coalition of black and white pastors in Louisville, Ky., where the seminary is located, recently contacted school officials with their request. The group suggested Southern Seminary could donate millions to a local Christian college whose students are predominantly African American. In a May 31 letter of response, the president and board chair of the Southern Baptist Convention’s flagship seminary said they would not transfer funds to another institution. The seminary released a 71-page report in December that said its early trustees and faculty “defended the righteousness of slaveholding” and espoused white supremacy. Founders of the seminary, which opened in 1859, owned more than 50 slaves. Spike Lee will honor Denzel Washington’s career by presenting his friend and collaborator with the American Film Institute’s Life Achievement Award. AFI said Tuesday that Lee will present the actor and director with the honor at a gala Thursday at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. Lee has directed Washington in four films, including “Malcolm X” and “Inside Man.” He also worked with Washington’s son, John David, on the 2019 Oscar best-picture nominee “BlacKkKlansman.” It’s a role reversal for Washington, who has helped present Lee with an honorary Oscar in 2015 and an NAACP Hall of Fame Award in 2003. Mahershala Ali will join a star-studded list of presenters including Morgan Freeman, Chadwick Boseman and Julia Roberts. The tribute will air on TNT on June 20 at 10 p.m. Eastern and Pacific. The 64-year-old Washington joins the ranks of Mel Brooks, Robert De Niro, Meryl Streep and Alfred Hitchcock. Last year’s AFI honoree was George Clooney. Benita Bellamy Kelley is CEO of the Nashville based Marketing and Publicity firm The Bellamy Group. She continues to define and redefine forward-thinking entertainment marketing, business with integrity and how success can be attained for women and/or minorities. With over 20 years of experience in the music business and performing arts, her small firm has continued to operate in excellence, gone head to head with and has forged ahead of some larger firms and corporations in her industry. With a stellar list of clients and a long list of accomplishments and honors, Benita adds yet another award to her credit. The 3rd Annual Independent Recording Artist and Arts Awards (IRAA) were handed in Baton Rouge, LA June 1. Benita was awarded The 2019 IRAA Promoter/Marketer of the Year. In addition to her marketing and publicity work, Benita is an author and radio personality. Her powerful 31-day devotional book BORN 2 BE was released this spring. In the book, Benita shares personal stories from working in the music industry, the ups and downs of being an entrepreneur and a minority business owner, as well as relatable stories of the struggles and victories of parenting, family and relationships. A Manhattan driver involved in a fender bender with comedian Tracy Morgan’s new Bugatti says she “got scared” when the entertainer reacted by pounding on her window and yelling. Jocelyn Madulid of Jersey City, New Jersey told the New York Post Tuesday that she initially didn’t know who the other driver was. Madulid says an officer told her it was a “famous guy.” A tour guide on a double-decker bus remarked, “Oh, that’s Tracy Morgan!” The Bugatti is reportedly worth $2 million. Morgan’s outburst was caught on video. An email requesting comment was sent Wednesday to Morgan’s representative. In 2014, the former “30 Rock” and “Saturday Night Live” star was seriously injured when a truck hit the limo van he was riding in. Comedian James McNair was killed. CLEO TV and Spectrum are teaming up to take the groundbreaking signature series, CLEO SPEAKS, on a five city tour. Kicking off in New York on Monday, June 10, the tour will make stops in Raleigh, Orlando, Dallas and Los Angeles. CLEO SPEAKS is a candid series that gives dynamic women a platform to share their unique experiences and perspectives on issues facing Millennial and Gen X women of color today. https://mycleo.tv/ Checkout he new single by Damita, entitled "RECOVERY"!!! Damita is best known, not only for her vast sound that explores both contemporary, urban, soul and rock, but her roots stem deeply in worship. As an ordained minister of the gospel she recognizes that no matter how relevant or mainstream her music may go, her message and the spirit in which her ministry of music is delivered will always be led by Christ and Him alone. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Agk8xWkMW1w&feature=youtu.be Orbit Theatrical and Orbit Arts Academy are back to produce their annual concert, "Broadway Unplugged" at 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 22, 2019. The annual fundraiser will take place at The Conant Performing Arts Center. Broadway artists, local talent, a silent auction, and a VIP reception are all included in this night of theatrics. Following several stellar performances, an exciting new project will be unveiled. https://vimeo.com/330634390 GRAMMY® nominee and Dove Award winner Danny Gokey took home “Male Artist of the Year” at the 7th annual K-LOVE Fan Awards, held at Nashville’s historic Grand Ole Opry House on June 2nd. This win, marks Gokey’s fourth K-LOVE Fan Award and his second time winning “Male Artist of the Year.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1eMZiOJ0a0&feature=youtu.be TV One brings chills and thrills every Sunday night this July with four original movie premieres themed LOVE, LIES & MURDER." features: SINS OF THE FATHER debuting Sunday, July 7 at 8 p.m./7C; IN BROAD DAYLIGHT premiering Sunday, July 14 at 8 p.m./7C; LOVED TO DEATH airing Sunday, July 21 at 8 p.m./7C; and DEADLY DISPATCH premiering Sunday, July 28 at 8 p.m./7C. Sparked by real events,"SINS OF THE FATHER" features Deitrick Haddon, A.J. Johnson, Clifton Powell, Terayle Hill and Angela Davis. The movie follows Clarence Burnett (Haddon) a pastor in Atlanta who's happily married to Karen (Davis). The couple's world is torn apart when Karen is brutally murdered outside their Atlanta home, sending shock waves through their close-knit community. As police delve deeper into the Burnett's inner circle, they discover secret lives filled with lust, cruelty and unearth a sinful conspiracy of biblical proportions. SINS OF THE FATHER.....https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9gG51eIGeg&feature=youtu.be RCA Inspiration (RCAI) has launched a month-long celebration with their campaign for Black Music Month, with the month of June commemorating the 40th anniversary of Black Music Month this year. During this month, RCA Inspiration’s Black Music Month campaign highlights the legacy of Gospel from RCAI and Verity Records’ current artists and catalog of releases spanning twenty-five years.The stars featured during RCAI’s Black Music Month campaign on social media, include: Donnie McClurkin, Kirk Franklin, Donald Lawrence, Hezekiah Walker, Marvin Sapp, Kurt Carr, Israel Houghton, Travis Greene, Snoop Dogg, Koryn Hawthorne, Le’Andria Johnson, William Murphy, Jason Nelson, Kierra Sheard, Yolanda Adams, John P. Kee, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Richard Smallwood, Daryl Coley, and more. RCAI’s Black Music Month campaign will also be introducing a series on YouTube, called Verity Records Presents: V.H.S. (Video Heritage Series). The series will showcase classic video concert footage from catalog releases, including Kirk Franklin’s debut release, Kirk Franklin & The Family. This song hit my desk over 13 years ago as I was preparing for the “Rain On Us” recording in Washington, DC. It’s writer, Apostle Kevin Davidson, a close childhood friend who grew up with me in Memphis, TN, called me and said he had a song that God gave him for the nations and that no one could deliver it but me. Kevin said I see God healing and setting His people free across the globe as it permeates the airwaves." Dr. Earnest Pugh drops "God Wants To Heal You." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdw-JR1jBqM&feature=youtu.be The Lonnie Hunter Variety Show is set to air on the Impact Television Network starting June 2019 on Saturdays from 9PM – 10PM EST. Lonnie Hunter, host of The Lonnie Hunter Variety Show, is the perfect person to bring a new and innovative viewing experience to the faith-based community. Upcoming episodes will include not only top gospel artists but actors, barber competitions, games, comedians and an array of surprises. Included in this one-hour variety show Hunter will introduce to his new television audience, his prize-winning game segments Clues & Categories as well as his Talent Show that has become a staple within his radio broadcast. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight!!! Hear Lonnie Hunter In His Own Words.....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/lonniehunter_intvw.htm The Living Legends Foundation,Inc.(LLF) today announces its 2019 Annual Awards Dinner and Gala. This year’s event will be go down Friday, October 4, 2019 at Taglyan Cultural Complex Hollywood, CA. The distinguished honorees include Dyana Williams, CEO of Influence Entertainment, who will be presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award; Frank Ski, V-103 Radio Atlanta, and Steve Hegwood, CEO and President, Core Communications, will both receive the Jerry Boulding Radio Executive Award; Maurice White, Vice President of Promotion, eOne Entertainment Group, will be presented with the Music Label Executive Award; Sheila Coates, founder and creator of BYOB (Be Your Own Brand), will receive the Entrepreneur Award; Dedra N. Tate, President and CEO, Unlimited Contacts, will be the second recipient of the Mike Bernardo Executive Award; Sidney Miller, founder and Publisher, BRE (Black Radio Exclusive), will be presented with the A.D. Washington Chairman’s Award; Hymen Childs, Owner, Service Broadcasting Group (SBG) and the nationally syndicated DeDe In The Morning, will receive the Broadcast Icon Award; Phil Thornton, Senior Vice President/General Manager, RCA Inspiration, will be presented with the Gospel Music Executive Award; and Karen Lee, Senior Vice President, W&W Public Relations, will receive the Media Executive Award. The Chairpersons of this year’s Awards Dinner and Gala are husband-and-wife team Ray Chew and Vivian Scott Chew. DeDe McGuire is returning as host. Its been more than two months since three historic black churches were destroyed by fire in St. Landry Parish, and Sunday the pastors of Mount Pleasant Baptist Church and Greater Union Baptist Churches in Opelousas and the pastor of St. Mary Baptist Church in Port Barre were all presented with checks from a Go Fund Me campaign that had been set up in the churches honor. The churches were empty at the time of the fires, and no one was injured. Pastor Gerard Toussaint of the Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church says each church pastor was presented with a check totaling one-third of the combined $2.6 million raised by the Seventh District Baptist Association, and from the outpouring of support worldwide. According to Toussaint, more than 37,000 people from all 50 states and over 40 countries donated to the campaign. Four years ago this month, Dylann Roof opened fire on a Wednesday night Bible study class at historic Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina, killing nine people, including an 87-year-old woman named Susie Jackson and 41-year-old Clementa Pinckney, a state senator and senior pastor at Emanuel. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Jennifer Berry Hawes was preparing for bed that night in June when she opened Twitter on her laptop and started seeing tweets about the shooting from her colleagues at Charleston’s daily newspaper, The Post and Courier. But it wasn’t until autumn, when Hawes first interviewed the two adult survivors for a story about their experience, that she became more deeply involved in the coverage. The idea to write a book came from a literary agent who contacted Hawes unsolicited and suggested the survivors’ stories would make a good book. Hawes agreed, especially since other issues had bubbled up over time, making it a more complex story. The result is “Grace Will Lead Us Home,”being published June 4 by St. Martin’s Press, a gripping retelling of the shooting and everything that followed, from Roof’s bond hearing where victims’ families astonished the nation by proclaiming forgiveness, to the Bridge to Peace unity march, to President Barack Obama’s eulogy at Pinckney’s funeral, to the Confederate flag’s removal from the South Carolina state Capitol, to the controversies surrounding Emanuel’s handling of donations and beyond. Hawes, will discuss and sign copies of “Grace Will Lead Us Home” at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum on June 14. A Forbes report out says that Jay-Z is the first hip-hop artist to reach the billionaire milestone. Jay-Z, whose real name is Shawn Carter (or maybe Mr. Beyoncé Knowles?), debuted his first album “Reasonable Doubt” in June 1996. Since then, the 49-year-old has not only released 14 number one albums and accrued 22 Grammy awards, he’s also launched his own brands of clothing (Rocawear) and liquor (D’Ussé cognac), and started his own music streaming service (Tidal). Carter also has stakes in companies like Uber and owns multiple properties. Gospel icon Kirk Franklin is known for speaking candidly about his many imperfections, so it’s no surprise that during a recent chat with EBONY, he opened up the challenges of being a public figure struggling with personal demons. He also weighed in on folks who are in awe of prominent church leaders who have come under fire for their controversial behavior. “I think the best example I can say is everybody has had cold fries once in their lives from McDonald’s and it didn’t stop them from going back,” Kirk said. https://youtu.be/ov8nxBoqFH4 Kanye West has announced plans to launch an incubator program that aims to support emerging artists, Vogue reports. The program will provide financial assistance and mentorship to talented hopefuls in the fields of fashion and design. Chicago-native and Parsons graduate Maisie Schloss, was the first to receive the grant as part of Yeezy womenswear design team. The success of faith-based films in recent years has led to a resurgence of Christian movies being made by Hollywood filmmakers. 2019 is already echoing 2018’s blockbuster year for Christian films. The Tim Tebow-backed production “Run the Race” brought in over $6 million domestically at the Box Office, and Devon Franklin’s latest film “Breakthrough” has made nearly $40 million. “Emanuel” will be released June 17 and 19. The documentary “Emanuel” tells the emotional accounts of survivors and family members of those who were murdered during a Bible study at the historic Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina in 2015. https://youtu.be/oBFSaiyl2bU TV One and CLEO TV General Manager Michelle Rice officially announced today that veteran television executive Brigitte McCray has joined the network's senior leadership team as the Senior Vice President, Original Programming and Production. In her new role, McCray provides strategic direction for all original programming and oversees all development and current production for TV One and its sister network CLEO TV. Based in the Silver Spring headquarters, she will report directly to Rice. THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW Monday through Thursday 10 PM/9C only on TV One. Joining DL in the studio this week is actor Flex Alexander on Monday, June 3; TBD on Tuesday, June 4; Essence Atkins on Wednesday, June 5; and J. Anthony Brown on Thursday, June 6. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Dma06Mh75U&feature=youtu.be SISTER CIRCLE LIVE," Monday 6/3/2019: Comedian/Actor Tyler Chronicles Festival Fashion with Stylist Shatava Lindsey, Tuesday 6/4/2019: Award-winning educator and Founder/CEO of the 'Harvard Diversity Project' Brandon Fleming, Wednesday 6/5/2019: Gospel Singer Micah Stampley, Former NFL Player/Author Trent Shelton, Healthy recipes with Dr. Lauren Powell, Thursday 6/6/2019: Judges Dana & Keith Cutler from "Couples Court", Friday 6/7/2019: Comedian Chico Bean Bishop Marvin L. Sapp today announced to his congregation that he is retiring as Senior Pastor of Lighthouse Full Life Center. He has accepted the personal request of Bishop Richard E. Young to assume the role of Senior Pastor of Chosen Vessel Cathedral in Fort Worth, Texas. Bishop Young is a close family friend who is like an Uncle to Marvin Sapp. Bishop Young has been the pastor of Chosen Vessel since 1985. In April he announced that he will retire to Emeritus status effective September 14th, 2019. Fourteen-time GRAMMY® Award winning artist, songwriter and producer Kirk Franklin released LONG LIVE LOVE, his much anticipated new album. LONG LIVE LOVE is Franklin’s thirteenth studio album and his first since 2015’s Losing My Religion. see review on Gospel Spotlight Album review......http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/album_rvw.htm Jake and Jazz Smollett return thisSaturday, June 1 at 12 p.m. ET/11C and upgrade a young mom's home while cooking up a tasty, kid-friendly meal on the next episode of LIVING BY DESIGN WITH JAKE AND JAZZ. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwVpUblwKcE&feature=youtu.be Hip-hop artist Chance the Rapper recently revealed that he’s trusting God for his aunt who is in “dire need” of a kidney transplant. The emcee took to Twitter on May 23 to reveal that his family “believes in the power of prayer” despite his aunt’s health battles. However, the family is holding on to their faith. “We give the problem to God,” he added. “A prayer really goes a long way,” he tweeted as fans expressed their support. Chance also revealed specific information about her blood type since so many people were inquiring about how else they could help. “I’m sorry it was a lil overwhelmingly [emotional] writing this, Her blood type is O positive, you can get a quick blood test and physical to find your a match,” Chance continued. He ended the series of tweets with one final proclamation of faith. “I serve a promise keeping God and His timing’s impeccable,” the Chicago native declared. Octavia Spencer is a movie star. She has been for almost a decade since audiences and Oscar voters fell in love with her as Minnie in “The Help.” Since then she’s gotten two more supporting actress Oscar nominations, one of which was for a film that became another “surprise” blockbuster (“Hidden Figures”), ramped up her production company, acted consistently in film and television and written children’s books. She even executive produced this year’s best picture winner, “Green Book.” But there was one thing she hadn’t yet done in her nearly 25 years in the business: Starred in her own film. She’d been a lead before, but she’d never been first on the call sheet. Until now. The film to righted that wrong is “Ma,” a movie in which she plays a small town woman who buys beer for some local high school students and lets them party in her basement, before things take a sinister turn. It opens nationwide this weekend, and it’s unlike anything audiences have seen Spencer do before. “There are only a couple of archetypes people are comfortable seeing me in. And for me, it’s like, you know you might only be comfortable seeing me this way, but there are so many colors in this crayon box,” Spencer, 47, said. “I want to play everything that you don’t think I can do.” Tasha Cobbs Leonard continues to expand her business ventures with the launch of CURVE Athletics. Following the successful launch of Fritz Eyewear last summer, Cobbs Leonard broadens her retail brand with CURVE Athletics. Billed as an “Athleisure” apparel line for women with CURVES, the line promises to offer stylish, comfortable and fun pieces that can are worn for workouts, a busy day running through airports, or on a hot date . This collection is designed with the plus-sized woman in mind. Each piece is structured with a breathable, and supportive high-end fabric that provides both a comfortable and shaping hold. Tasha launched the line with an incredible photo spread that features women of all sizes and ages . The collection is available online now. CURVE Athletics is the CURVY Woman’s New Addiction! In honor of June’s Black Music Month, 22-year-old chart-topper, 4-time Stellar Award, GMA Dove Award winner, singer-songwriter Jekalyn Carr exclusive YouTube Music Video premiere for her new single “I See Miracles ” will release on her Official YouTube channel on Monday, June 3rd, 2019 at 8 PM ET / 7 PM CT. Filmed in HD and shot on location in New Orleans, Louisiana, Jekalyn Carr’s first-ever concept music video is directed by Kauwuane Burton. The track is produced and written with her father, manager and three-time GRAMMY® Award nominated musician Allen Carr. A budding entrepreneur Jekalyn is gearing up for her 2nd Annual You Will Win Conference on June 21-22, 2019 in Orlando, FL with special guest artists, personalities, and speakers including Rickey Smiley, Willie Moore, Jr.,Tye Tribbett and Koryn Hawthorne. She is also launching a signature makeup line and a syndicated radio show later this year.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pDsY8PL_uyw Anthony Evans’ album Altared, released on his self-started independent label and production company Sherman James Productions, debuted at No. 1 on the Gospel Albums Sales Chart this week. This marks his second consecutive album to debut at No. 1. The 11-track album features the NBC The Voice alumnus re-imagining and “ Altaring ” top worship songs along with recording heartfelt originals including the debut single “Fighting For Us,” which is climbing the gospel radio charts. After a recent run of sold-out spring events with Evans’ sister, Author, Bible Teacher, and Actress Priscilla Shirer, demand was high for more FerVent 2.0 dates. Evans, via his independently owned Sherman James Productions, is sending the tour out on a fall run of shows, which kicks off in Memphis, Tenn. on September 7. Evans’ faithful expressions from his new album "Altared" are coupled with the dynamic teaching based on the message of Priscilla’s upcoming movie "Overcomer." “Fighting For Us” https://youtu.be/OoDsTBACQWM TBN presents a night of worship this Monday night, June 3rd featuring Jonathan Nelson. Doors open at 5:30PM, and taping begins at 7:00PM. The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office has charged singer R. Kelly with 11 new counts of criminal sexual abuse, The Chicago Tribune and The Chicago Sun-Times reported Thursday, bringing the total number of charges against him in Illinois up to 21. The new charges resulted from an offense that allegedly took place in 2010. Few details were made available, it’s not clear whether the victim from that case is new or one of the women from the 10 counts filed against him in February. Details were not immediately available. However, four of the 11 new charges are listed as aggravated criminal sexual assault, a Class X felony that could land Kelly in prison for six to 30 years should he be convicted on any of them. Four people have been killed and eight others were wounded in a church van crash in Virginia Tuesday night. The deadly accident occurred in Dinwiddie, Virginia, and involved a van carrying 11 members of Shiloh Baptist Church, in Blackstone, Virginia, who were on their way to an event at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. On Tuesday, the Shiloh Baptist Church van was slowing down while making a right turn into the Mt. Zion Baptist Church’s parking lot in Dinwiddie, when it was rear-ended by a truck pulling a trailer of metal that failed to stop in time, according to WRIC. The van was said to have flipped over multiple times before coming to a stop on its side. The truck, meanwhile, hit a guardrail. Virginia State Police said that four of the van passengers died at the scene. Three other passengers were airlifted to a hospital with life-threatening injuries, while the remaining four were transported to the hospital with serious injuries. The truck driver was also taken to the hospital after suffering minor injuries. Lamar Odom is blaming his 2015 overdose on late brothel owner Dennis Hof, alleging the businessman tried to kill him by possibly poisoning him. The former Los Angeles Lakers forward made the shocking claim on The View Tuesday, claiming that he did not take any drugs the night he overdosed at Hof’s Love Ranch brothel in October 2015. “ I think Dennis Hof… I don’t know what he had against me, but I didn’t do drugs that night, to be honest with you,” said Odom, 39. “So I don’t know if he tried to poison me, or … I don’t know what he had against me. He tried to kill me.” When pressed for proof by co-host Joy Behar, Odom, 39, said he was unable to back up his allegation, but that his lawyer found workers at the brothel who said that was the case. Will Smith wants to share the whole new world of “Aladdin” with his famous family. Tuesday, the 50-year-old actor, who plays the Genie in Disney’s live-action remake of the 1992’s animated classic, hit the purple carpet outside the El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, where he was joined by wife Jada Pinkett Smith, sons Trey, 26, and Jaden Smith, 20, and daughter Willow Smith, 18. Dressed in a printed suit, Will cozied up to Jada, 47, whose blue ensemble looked to be inspired by her husband’s character in the film, as they posed for photos with their children. In addition to his own family, Will received support from his former “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” co-stars, Alfonso Ribeiro and Tatyana Ali, who is expecting her second child with husband Dr. Vaughn Rasberry. Black excellence and black young men joy are in full effect in Hampton, Virginia. Hundreds of young black males were celebrated for working hard to earn and maintain a 3.0 or higher. Over 700 young black males, dressed to impress, filled Hampton Roads Convention Center to celebrate their outstanding accomplishments. Some would have you believe black men can only excel in athletics and entertainment. Well this event is writing a new narrative. Black men can excel in all areas, all you need is belief and confidence. Gospel superstar Kirk Franklin spoke about his relationship with Kanye West in an interview with Beats 1 studio on Monday where he was asked to comment on the rapper’s Sunday Service events. Franklin and West collaborated on the song “Ultralight Beam” and host Ebro Darden wanted Franklin’s take on West’s Sunday Services that his wife, Kim Kardashian West, described as a “spiritual Christian experience” that includes gospel music but omits preaching. “Let that be his medicine, he ain’t making no loot doing it,” Franklin responded. https://youtu.be/oWPwm0xhfe4 Moviegoers voted with their dollars and chose the familiar over the new this Memorial Day weekend. The Walt Disney Co.’s live-action remake of “Aladdin” crushed the competition at the box office. “Aladdin” did better than expected, grossing an estimated $86.1 million to take the top spot at the North American box office, according to studio estimates on Sunday. It’ll likely pass $100 million by Monday. “Aladdin,” a musical-adventure directed by Guy Ritchie, stars Will Smith, Mena Massoud and Naomi Scott. It draws heavily on the music and story of the 1992 animated film (the top earner of that year) that it’s based on. Singer Chris Brown has been summoned to Paris for a face-to-face meeting with the student who accuses him of raping her. The dramatic meeting is set to take place at the headquarters of the French capital’s Judicial Police on Tuesday. Legal sources in Paris on Sunday confirmed a report in the Parisian newspaper that the 24-year-old alleged victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has provided compelling evidence of an attack. There is no extradition treaty between France and the USA, so it remains to be seen whether Brown, 30, will make the journey from his home in Los Angeles. The victim claims she was raped by Brown, his bodyguard, and a third man in the early hours of January 16. "Growing Pains", is Stellar Award nominated artist ChoirBoi Cam's; most personal project to date. It's the highly anticipated conclusion to the "Against the Wall" EP. https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/ChoirBoi-Cam-Growing-Pains-RADIO-5a2uhJPMOgVqtL0LTIV01 12 year old actress, anti-bully activist & recording artist JHALA ANGELIQUE releases new single titled "Kaleidoscope". Also known as a child prodigy Jhala is making her sparkling music debut with an anthem for the ages. "Kaleidoscope" positively promotes the importance of having strong self-image and recognizing the beauty within that we all have. In 2018 Jhala Angelique was the winner of the Los Angeles acclaimed and celebrated “A Taste of Soul” and “StarQuest” singing competitions. https://thegospelcentral.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=fda04e8ffa120858ad12a680d&id=2d8c4662d6&e=7a12900599 Barack and Michelle Obama‘s baby girl, Sasha Obama, is finishing high school and in fact, attend her prom on Friday night (05-24-19). In pics posted on Facebook, the former first daughter and her date is seen posing for the camera before her grand time out in Washington; she will graduate from the Sidwell Friends High School next month. The gorgeous Sasha is seen with her handsome, tux-wearing boyfriend, Chris Milton. Jake and Jazz Smollett return this Saturday, May, 25 at 12 p.m. ET/11C on the only lifestyle series that offers viewers a design reveal and a meal - LIVING BY DESIGN WITH JAKE AND JAZZ. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_honcF07q4Q&feature=youtu.be THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW, Memorial Day weekend, the "Best of The DL Hughley Show" will air on Monday, May 27 with highlights from Cedric the Entertainer, Anthony Anderson, Steve Harvey and Loni Love. Featured guests joining DL in studio next week include actress Niecy Nash, Tuesday, May 28; actor Jeremy Piven, Wednesday, May 29 and comedian/actor Gary Owen, Thursday, May 30. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kodJaMyFr0g&feature=youtu.be Sunday (5/26), global music and entertainment streaming platform, TIDAL will exclusively livestream "Exodus Music & Arts Festival" in partnership with Live Nation Urban from Irving, Texas. The livestream will feature performances from the powerhouse lineup including: Fred Hammond, The Clark Sisters, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Travis Greene, VaShawn Mitchell, Kelontae Gavin and Kirk Franklin. “This year’s festival will be even greater than last year’s and the performers will blow you away!” said Festival headliner and creator, Kirk Franklin. “We are excited to partner with TIDAL and share music from our spiritual lineup to not only the community in Texas, but the gospel audience globally.” Nothing To Hard is the fifth Album from Urban Christian Artist Lawrence Hancock. This effort comes on the heels of back-to-back Gospel Album Sales Charting projects. These 12 Singles give music enthusiasts what they have been asking for a complete album! Utilizing a pallet of urban musical themes, Hancock continues to captivate with Christ-centered lyrics that evoke the listener to praise and worship. Kurt Carr is coming to Louisiana, headlining a “Bless Somebody Else” Benefit Concert – A Night of Hope and Inspiration Saturday June 1st, at the Opelousas Civic Center in Opelousas, LA, along with hosting an open call for singers on Friday May 31. Carr’s “Bless Somebody Else” Concert is raising funds to benefit the three historic black churches that burned down in the hate crime arsons that took place earlier this spring, in the course of ten days in March and April (St. Mary Baptist Church in Port Barre, Greater Union Baptist Church in Opelousas, and Mount Pleasant Baptist Church in Opelousas). Named after his latest single “Bless Somebody Else (Dorothy’s Song)” to encourage bringing blessings to others, Carr will feature special guests and welcome area singers at the benefit concert, to create a night of hope and inspirational music for the greater St. Landry Parish, where the three churches had long been pillars of the community, each serving the area for more than 100 years. Marshal Ausberry Sr., senior pastor of Antioch Baptist Church in Fairfax Station, Va., will be nominated as first vice president of the Southern Baptist Convention during the SBC’s June 11-12 annual meeting, Nevada pastor Vance Pitman has announced. Ausberry, who has led the church for 24 years into numerous local and global initiatives, also is the current president of the National African American Fellowship of the Southern Baptist Convention. "SISTER CIRCLE LIVE," hosted by Quad Webb-Lunceford, Syleena Johnson ,Rashan Ali and Trina Braxton welcome: Monday 5/27/2019: RE-RUN: Rapper/Actor/Philanthropist Common and health tips with Dr. Jen Caudle. Tuesday 5/28/2019: Dr. Contessa Metcalfe from "Married to Medicine" , mystic Maudy Fowler and fitness guru Lauren Powers. Wednesday 5/29/2019: Author/Actor Remi Adeleke. Yoga demonstration and a delicious recipe from Chef Cam. Thursday 5/30/2019: Curvy, Curly, Conscious founder/actress Shelah Marie and actor/comedian Clinton Coley. Celebrity fitness trainers and life coaches David Tex and Yamisse. Friday 5/31/2019: R&B group Blaque; actress Victoria Rowell and fitness trainer KD Wilson https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EW4hRWxFsMk&feature=youtu.be The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington installed Wilton Gregory as its archbishop on Tuesday (May 21), ushering in a new era for a community marred by recent scandals involving sex abuse. Gregory, who most recently served as the archbishop of Atlanta, embarked on his new ministry during a Mass held Tuesday afternoon at Washington’s Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, next to the Catholic University of America. The largest Roman Catholic Church in North America, the basilica was chosen over the city’s cathedral, St. Matthew’s, to accommodate the thousands who packed the pews for the event. Christian comedian John Crist took a slight departure from his regular comedic skits to release a new song and video that is currently No. 2 on the iTunes Christian charts. His catchphrase “Check Your Heart” has become a movement on social media and he has now capitalized on it with his song, “Check Your Heart,” featuring 1KPhew, Nobigdyl. and DJ Mykael V. https://youtu.be/WKfOtip07B4 Enon Music Group recording artist Robert Copeland is enjoying the advent of the summer season as he prepares to hit the road as well as release new music from No Distance, his debut project to radio. The message of the title song has driven an uptick in audience response and participation with fans and followers flocking to YouTube to view the lyric video for the song, drawing scores of new admirers daily. Copeland gets in gear for the unofficial kick off of Summer this weekend, joining Gospel’s rising star Kelontae Gavin in North Carolina on Friday, before heading out to the Sanford, Florida Gospel Festival with noted worship leader and psalmist Pastor Wendi Wyatt. On the latest episode of “Red Table Talk” actress Jada Pinkett Smith and her team discussed the unhealthy effects of porn. On Monday’s episode of RTT, Pinkett Smith, her daughter Willow, and her mom Adrienne explored the negative effect on pornography on relationships. “Back in the day I had a little porn addiction, but I wasn’t in a relationship when I had a porn addiction, believe it or not, thank goodness,” the actress admitted while the trio got ready before heading to the table. “I actually feel like I was using ‘addiction’ a little lightly. And maybe I’ll say now that I had an unhealthy relationship to porn at one point in my life where I was trying to practice abstinence,” Pinkett Smith, who’s been married to Will Smith for over 20 years, added. Singing phenom Bri Babineaux, who boasts over a half million Instagram followers, is headed to New Orleans to record her sophomore gospel album, The "Encounter." The live praise and worship music goes down Friday, May 31, 2019 at Living the Word International, Slidell, LA. Bri’s special performing guests will include Todd Dulaney, Psalmist Raine, Dante Bowe and Alicia Hardy-Montgomery. The newly married 24-year-old Lafayette, Louisiana resident is best-known for her signature songs such as “I’ll Be The One” (2015) and “Make Me Over” (2017) which both hit No. 1 on the Gospel Digital Song Sales chart. Her debut album, "Keys to My Heart," debuted at No. 1 and helped her win two Stellar Gospel Music Awards, including New Artist of the Year in 2017. This year ESSENCE Fest is moving the culture forward, celebrating 25 years of Black women in Gospel music. Yolanda Adams, Donnie McClurkin, Tasha Cobbs & More to join 25 Years Of Black Women In Gospel Music Celebration at ESSENCE Fest. With the support of his head coach and general manager, star NFL running back Kareem Hunt got baptized on Sunday just months after a video emerged showing him pushing and kicking a female at a Cleveland hotel. The 23-year-old Hunt, an Ohio native who signed with the Cleveland Browns in February, got baptized at True Vine Baptist Church in Cleveland on Sunday. Hunt said that his baptism was the result of him getting closer to religion as he tries to turn his life around following his release from the Kansas City Chiefs last November. Having played with the Chiefs during his first two NFL seasons, the pro-bowl running back was cut by the team after a security video surfaced from a downtown Cleveland hotel showing him pushing and shoving a woman during an altercation in a hallway. Hunt will be suspended without pay for the first eight games of the 2019 NFL season due to his altercation at the hotel last June and a physical altercation that occurred at his Cleveland residence last February. Singer Montell Jordan revised his 1995 smash hit single, “This Is How We Do It,” to better suit his Christian faith for the season finale of American Idol. Jordan was invited on the mainstream show. During his Sunday performance, the classic R&B tune was altered to remove every reference of alcohol, sex and drunkenness. https://youtu.be/YiVKU8aEXMU ; Sterling K. Brown is embarking on a passion project. And, much like his NBC hit This Is Us, it shines light on difficult topics. The two-time Emmy-winning actor partnered with Bristol-Myers Squibb for a series called Survivorship Today: What It’s Like to Live with Cancer, streaming now at survivorshiptoday.com. In each episode, Brown interviews a cancer survivor about life after his or her diagnosis, exploring the physical, emotional and social effects. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 15.5 million Americans with a history of cancer were alive in 2016, and by 2026, that number will rise to 20.3 million. Oprah Winfrey surprised a group of students at West Side High School in Newark on Friday night with a pizza party and a $500,000 donation to the school’s Light’s On program. The Lights On after-school program was created by principle Akbar Cook, who aims to create a safe and creative space for his students on Friday nights during the school year. Cook previously made headlines for installing washing machines at the school to ensure students had clean clothes. With the Light’s On program, Principal Cook and his family personally prepare dinner for the program’s 300 students each week. But this past Friday, Winfrey hosted a pizza party with her line of “O, That’s Good” frozen pizzas with Kraft Heinz. The media mogul and Kraft Heinz donated $50 ShopRite gift cards to the hundreds of kids in attendance before she donated a check for $500,000 to support the program, the report states. https://youtu.be/HwFUnJdrHuQ Golfing champ Tiger Woods is receiving the scripted miniseries treatment just one month after he bagged his fifth Masters win. Woods’ life and career will be chronicled in the scripted miniseries that is currently in development and based on the New York Times best-seller “Tiger Woods,” co-authored by Jeff Benedict. The book is based on more than 250 interviews with family, friends and associates and explores the rise and fall of the golf legend. Benedict has teamed with Wheelhouse Entertainment to bring the project to life and he called the partnership a “dream.” Thirty-four African American women are expected to graduate from West Point next weekend — the highest number of black women to graduate in the same class in the history of the military academy. A photo of the historic class of 2019 circulated on social media this week as students finish up their final exams. “My hope when young Black girls see these photos is that they understand that regardless of what life presents you, you have the ability and fortitude to be a force to be reckoned with,” cadet Tiffany Welch-Baker told the website Because of Them We Can. GRAMMY®-Award winning, multi-platinum-selling musical icon, acclaimed vocalist, songwriter, musician, producer, and arranger, Fred Hammond has earned his 5th career BET Award nomination. He's nominated in the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award category for his current radio hit "Tell Me Where It Hurts." Social media phenom and chart-topping independent 20-year-old artist Kelontae Gavin has released his new radio single "There's No One Like You," to gospel radio. Co-written by Gavin along with hitmakers Marquis Boone and TedyP - both of which co-produced the track. This is the inspiring follow-up to the breakthrough radio smash, "No Ordinary Worship. Eight months after the death of Aretha Franklin, three handwritten wills have been found in her suburban Detroit home, including one discovered under cushions in the living room, an estate lawyer has confirmed. One will is reportedly dated March 2014, and appears to give Franklin’s assets to family members. At the time of her death last August of pancreatic cancer, lawyers and family members said the Queen of Soul had no will, but three handwritten versions were discovered earlier this month, according to the Detroit Free Press. Two wills drafted in 2010 were found in a locked cabinet after a key was found, the report states. Estate attorney David Bennett confirmed that the 2014 version was found inside a spiral notebook under cushions. Reginald Heber had no idea when he penned the hymn Holy, Holy, Holy that it would reverberate for well over a century and hold its own as one of the most beloved hymns of the church. Today, the Billboard Top 20 charting, Stellar Award nominated Enon Music Group recording artists Fresh Anointing Choir of the historic Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church under the pastoral leadership of Reverend Dr, Alyn E. Waller puts their own inimitable stamp on the song as the reincarnation of the hymn takes its turn in the spotlight. Holy, Holy follows hit singles Oh How I Love Jesus featuring Pastor John P. Kee and God Is featuring Shawn Bigby,and is available now on all digital outlets and streaming platforms while the single is making the rounds at radio over the coming weeks. Multiple Grammy winner Hezekiah Walker, Stellar & Grammy nominee Renee Spearman drop the smash hit single “I LOVE HIM”!! The highly-anticipated follow-up to “whoa to WOW!”, Renee's hit CD. A sophisticated blend of praise & worship, contemporary gospel and traditional gospel, “I LOVE HIM” is the new powerhouse release by Renee Spearman! Renee’s new hit CD “I LOVE HIM” features an all-star cast including Hezekiah Walker, Dorinda Clark-Cole and more. Alvin Darling, known for hits like “All Night,” “Nobody But the Lord,” and “He's All Over Me” which debuted in “The Preachers Wife” movie sung by Loretta Divine, and is featured on the Preacher’s Wife soundtrack and sung by Whitney Houston and Shirley Caesar. Now, Alvin Darling returns with his latest single entitled “Leave It Alone” is a spirit filled, foot stomping tune with a practical message, that all radio listeners have come to love from him. The estate of Whitney Houston has struck a deal aiming to revive the late superstar’s brand, potentially launching a touring hologram and album of unreleased music. New York-based company Primary Wave Music Publishing announced Monday it penned an agreement with mega-celebrity Houston’s estate, acquiring 50 percent of its assets including royalties from her music, films and merchandising. The most awarded female artist of all time, Houston died at 48 years old in 2012 after a public struggle with drugs, following a decade that saw her go from America’s sweetheart to tabloid drama queen. “With Primary Wave’s global appeal and wealth of contacts, the partnership will advance the artistry and integrity of Whitney’s legacy to a stratosphere that she herself left us all to enjoy for a lifetime,” Pat Houston, the late artist’s sister-in-law and executor of the estate, said in a statement. After a four-year hiatus, America’s most inspirational singing competition, “Sunday Best,” makes its triumphant return to BET, as a new and improved Season 9 takes over Sunday nights beginning in June. The gospel show welcomes back Grammy Award®-winning music legend Kirk Franklin as host, gospel songstress and host of “Get Up Mornings” Erica Campbell as a judge; and adds two Grammy-Award® nominated artists Kelly Price and Jonathan McReynolds as new additions to the panel. With a brand new stage and exciting themed challenges, this season will be the toughest one yet. The 19th Annual African Pride Gospel SuperFest TV spectacular presented by The Cartwright Foundation is set for June 22, 2019 in Dayton, Ohio at the $100 million Schuster Performing Arts Center. Hosted by NAACP Image® Award-Winning Actress Wendy Raquel Robinson, this year’s star-studded celebration of Gospel music will include performances from the biggest names in Gospel. The show’s Lifetime Achievement honors are being awarded to Pastor Donnie McClurkin and The Rance Allen Group for their trailblazing and transformative music and ministries. Sybrina Fulton, the mother of Trayvon Martin says she is running for Miami-Dade County Commissioner, CBS Miami reports. Trayvon was gunned down at age 17 by then-neighborhood watch volunteer George Zimmerman, who was subsequently acquitted. The case sparked nationwide protests and lead to the formation of the Black Lives Matter movement. Since her son’s murder, Fulton has advocated to make South Florida communities safer. She co-founded the Miami Gardens-based Trayvon Martin Foundation in the district she’ll represent should she be elected to the Miami-Dade County Commission. Fulton will face off against Miami Gardens Mayor Oliver Gilbert in the election, according to the Miami Herald. If you haven’t already heard, something wonderful and very important happened on Sunday. After receiving his honorary doctorate at Morehouse College, billionaire Robert F. Smith, the technology investor and philanthropist, basically freaked out everyone by announcing that his family was providing a grant to eliminate the student debt of the entire Class of 2019. “This is my class,” he said, “and I know my class will pay this forward.” The announcement came as a humongous surprise to Smith’s staff as well as the staff at Morehouse, and you know it got the biggest response of the morning from the crowd. R. Kelly could soon be battling dual indictments in both New York and Illinois, as a grand jury is set to hear evidence related to sex trafficking claims against the disgraced singer. Officials have been interviewing witnesses, and testimony will be presented in front of the grand juries in both the Southern District of New York and the Northern District of Illinois. The federal investigation is expected to wrap within the next few weeks, and a Kelly insider predicts two indictments will be filed. The charges will mainly relate to sex trafficking and tax evasion. RCA Inspiration celebrates the 2019 BET Awards nominations, with two nods in the category of Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel / Inspirational Award. Kirk Franklin is nominated for his chart-topping hit song “Love Theory,” from his upcoming album LONG LIVE LOVE, and Snoop Dogg (feat. Rance Allen) is nominated for the hit “Blessing Me Again,” from his chart-topping Gospel release Snoop Dogg Presents Bible of Love. Franklin garners an additional nomination in the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel / Inspirational Award category for his featured performance with Tori Kelly on her hit song “Never Alone.” The 2019 BET Awards go down in Los Angeles, airing live on Sunday, June 23, 2019 at 8 PM/7C. The hot new lifestyle series LIVING BY DESIGN WITH JAKE AND JAZZ, featuring brother/sister duo Jake and Jazz Smollett, returns on Saturday, May 18 at 12 p.m. ET. Jake and Jazz hit all the right notes when they redesign the bachelorette pad of Taylor, an eclectic musician from New Orleans who became a viral sensation with her popular drumming videos. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzacQ6_29aw&feature=youtu.be Today, 14-time GRAMMY® winning artist, songwriter and producer Kirk Franklin unveiled the video for his song “OK”. The “OK” video, which was directed by Matt DeLisi, premiered exclusively on BET Soul and BET Gospel. It can also be seen on BET.com and the Kirk Franklin YouTube channel. “OK” is a new single from Franklin’s forthcoming album, LONG LIVE LOVE, which will release on May 31st. LONG LIVE LOVE, Franklin’s thirteenth studio album, is currently available for pre-order on all digital platforms and available for pre-add on Apple Music. Those pre-ordering or pre-adding the album will instantly receive the tracks “OK,” “Just For Me” and “Love Theory,” which has been #1 on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs chart for 15 weeks straight. In addition to the release of the new album, Franklin will host and headline the 2nd Annual Exodus Music & Arts Festival on May 26th in Irving, TX. Also, he’ll be back as host of the ninth season of BET’s Sunday Best, which premiers Sunday, June 30th. July 11th, Franklin will kick off his 26-city LONG LIVE LOVE Tour! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nzr-TsrIeNc Little did Singer/Songwriter and Actor Anthony Evans know when he was in the studio working on his highly-anticipated new album "Altared," releasing today, May 17, that the songs he was writing and recording to encourage his fans would come to so profoundly minister peace to him. . In tandem with his sister, best-selling author/actress Priscilla Shirer, Evans will set out on the “FerVent 2.0” tour. Each night, faithful expressions from his new album "Altared" will be joined with messages from Priscilla’s upcoming movie "Overcomer." The highly-anticipated tour kicked off the first of 16 shows in Tyler, Texas on May 15. Anthony Evans’ new album "Altared" is available through all digital retailers and exclusively via Lifeway Christian Resources today. Award-winning Christian rapper Lecrae is used to playing sold-out arena shows. But he took a gig in a rather unusual venue last month — Carol S. Vance Unit prison in Fort Bend County, Texas. Heading inside the facility with fellow musicians Andy Mineo and Tedashii, Lecrae met with inmates to hear stories of how many of them had come to Christ, and tried to offer some hope and wisdom of his own. The acclaimed artist visited in partnership with Prison Fellowship, a ministry organization that works with “talented people in entertainment and restorative programs to bring awareness to the 2.2 million people behind bars in America today.” https://youtu.be/F0hql9A3EFo It’s festival season, and everyone’s favorite former first lady is officially participating! ESSENCE announced Thursday that Michelle Obama will headline their 25th Anniversary Festival of Culture in New Orleans July 4-7. The 55-year-old is set to discuss her record-setting memoir, finding a new focus and her plans for the future during a sit-down interview on July 6, ESSENCE said in a statement. ESSENCE Festival is a celebration of global black culture that attracts more than 500,000 people each weekend. The View’s Loni Love will host this year’s event, making her the first female ever to do so. Becoming, which was released in November 2018, is a candid account of Mrs. Obama’s childhood in Chicago, her marriage to former president Barack Obama, becoming a mother to daughters Sasha and Malia and life in the White House. As of March 26, the memoir had sold a staggering 10 million copies worldwide. Six gospel artists had the chance of a lifetime to perform before Bishop T.D. Jakes and Pastor Marquis Boone on their competition reality show “The Gospel.” Yolanda DeBerry (stage name “Yoli”) was declared the winner of the competition Gospel show, and was rewarded a national management contract with T.D. Jakes’ Dexterity Sounds and Marquis Boone Music Group. The Gospel chronicled eight episodes as contestants competed for a national management contract with T.D. Jakes’ Dexterity Sounds and Marquis Boone Music Group. The first of its kind for Gospel music, Yoli was announced as the winner of this Christian music competition at Bishop T.D. Jakes International Pastors & Leadership Conference in Tampa Bay on April 27. The Black Business Association (BBA), the oldest ethnic business organization in the State of California, will commemorate African-American Music Appreciation Month by presenting its Annual Salute To Black Music Awards Dinner on Tuesday, June 18, 2019, at the California African American Museum, Los Angeles, CA. Reception begins at 6:00 PM, Awards Dinner at 7:00 PM and Dessert Reception from 9-10 PM. African-American Music Appreciation Month is a commemoration that takes place annually in the United States, throughout the month of June. Originally proclaimed “Black Music Month” by President Jimmy Carter on June 7, 1979, U.S. presidents have issued proclamations for the celebration under that name until President Barack Obama announced the observance under a new title, African-American Music Appreciation Month. Red Alliance Media/Fairtrade and Interface Entertainment are excited to announce that Stellar-award nominated recording artist, international worship leader, songwriter, and restaurateur Micah Stampley just released his newest highly anticipated single, "Fire & Rain." Stampley, best known for his powerhouse vocals and his extensive range soars to new heights in this exhilarating tune. “Fire and Rain” is a prelude to his ninth project— an EP with songs that are made for dancing and worship. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VjAi2StVgD8 Pastor and Psalmist Desmond Pringle wants you to know when he says and sings, “I am praying for you”, he really means it. Fresh from his Prayer Encounter weekend held in the beginning of May, Pringle releases the heartfelt and stirring single, I Am Praying For You, produced by Grammy award winning producer Cedric Thompson . Songwriter and producer Bill Moss, Jr. heads to Detroit’s New Providence Baptist Church Friday, May 17, 2019 for a live recording featuring the Baptist, Missionary and Education (BME) Convention Choir. “Life is extraordinary and we should make the best of it thanking God for each day He gives us”, Moss stated. “My next project is entitled, “His Majesty”. I have written songs that will help believers reflect on that glorious day when we see our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Ultimately, I want this project to bring you into a specific worship place that only the voice of God will be heard over all the other noise.” FlashBack Gospel Spotlight! Hear Bill Moss, Jr. In His Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/billmossjr_intvw.htm The word of God was sweet to my taste, yea sweeter than honey and the honeycomb. Christ was revealed to my soul as the chiefest among ten thousand,” wrote an 18th-century British seaman in 1789 as he reflected on his conversion that occurred five years previously. This Christian was a previously enslaved man known as Gustavus Vassa, through writing his own life story, became the founder of a literary movement known as slave narratives. His work was published under his birth name: The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano.A resident of London during the 1780s, Equiano became involved in British abolitionism and was a vocal opponent of the slave trade and slavery until his death in 1797. His Interesting Narrative served as the foremost abolitionist writing of the day because he was an African voice that described the violence and degradation of the slave trade and of slavery itself. Equiano’s narrative spurred nine English editions through 1794 and was published in Dutch, French, and Russian. Black churches across the nation are engaging in a campaign against abortion that involves not only political advocacy against groups like Planned Parenthood but also the provision of resources to vulnerable mothers who choose to give birth. The Church of God in Christ (COGIC), with over 6.5 million members across the globe, is stressing upon churches the need for them to serve as “landing pads” that assist women facing unwanted pregnancies and the need to engage the dark realities of abortion’s impact on the black community. Through its Family Life Campaign launched in 2015, COGIC is partnering with Human Coalition, a nationwide network of pro-life crisis pregnancy clinics, to reach and serve African-American women who would have otherwise “walked in the doors of Planned Parenthood” or another abortion clinic. The Family Life Campaign is believed to be the first sustained pro-life campaign launched by a major black denomination in the U.S. Sisters Dani and Dannah Lockett, who rose to fame with their viral video “Call Jesus,” are now the stars of an upcoming NBC sitcom with Kenan Thompson. The series, named “The Kenan Show,” will center around the Nickelodeon star (Thompson) whose character tries to accomplish his duties as a father to his daughters (the Locketts) while managing his career and his father-in-law, played by Andy Garcia. According to Variety, Dani, 9, will play the role of Emma, Kenan’s good-hearted and naive daughter, and Dannah, 8, will play the role of Sophie, Kenan’s “less trusting” daughter. “THIS IS WHY OUR FAITH IS UNWAVERING!! This is why our praises are to God! This is why we believe! Thank you Jesus, thank you to Kenan Thompson, Jackie Clark everyone at @nbc our entire team,” the sisters posted on Instagram with the announcement of their new show. The Locketts also thanked Christian celebrities Meagan Good, Devon Franklin and Tyrese who have been longtime supporters of the girls. Steve Harvey’s syndicated daytime talk show “Steve” will end its run in June. The writing was on the wall for the show last September when NBC cut a deal with Kelly Clarkson for a talk-variety hour to launch in the fall. “The Kelly Clarkson Show” will move into the prime daytime slots occupied on NBC O&Os by Harvey’s show for the past seven seasons. “Steve” taped its final episode on Thursday. Originals will air through June and the show will remain on the air in reruns through September. NBC announced that Melissa McCarthy will replace Steve Harvey as host of its unscripted series “Little Big Shots.” Harvey will be replaced by the Emmy-winning and Oscar-nominated star after hosting the show for its first three seasons. In it, young people with outstanding talents showcase what they can do and interact with the host in a comedic way. LARRY D. REID drops NEW SINGLE!!! "SMILE" https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/Smile-by-Larry-D.-Reid-RADIO-zPZ0u51ZiV726LcAOKGGU Houston siblings, Darrel, Rhea, Alic (nicknamed “Paco”), and Ahjah Walls, have earned bragging rights as electrifying singers and songwriters destined to ascend to among the most influential young artists in Urban and Contemporary Christian music. As 3-time Grammy nominated, 2-time Dove nominated, and multi-Stellar awards winners, The Walls Group drops single "Friend In Me." ABC has announced plans to renew its hit comedy “Black-ish” for a sixth season, in addition to rolling out another spinoff, “Mixed-ish,” based on a younger version of the character Rainbow Johnson, focusing on her upbringing in a mixed-race family in the ’80s. Created by award-winning writer/producer Kenya Barris, “Black-ish” stars Anthony Anderson as Andre “Dre” Johnson and Tracee Ellis Ross as Rainbow, who is based on Barris’ wife, Dr. Rainbow Barris — with whom he shares six children. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zcnQjti7hlc GRAMMY winner, and top-selling worship artist Tasha Cobbs Leonard set to launch CANDID, a series of empowering and ground-breaking events for women. Taking the ‘girls bunch’ concept to a new level, Cobbs Leonard will host the first CANDID, an exciting brunch event on Saturday, June 15, 2019, in Atlanta, GA. Like every good brunch, there will be good food, great conversation and lots of laughs. Tasha invited her personal village of amazing women to join her at the inaugural CANDID brunch. The incredible line up of speakers includes legendary GRAMMY winner, Yolanda Adams; social influencer, TV Star Marlo Hampton; Gospel music icon and favorite Kierra Sheard; actress Deborah Joy Winans and social media CEO Ivy McGregor. KWBJ is back with his new project, “The Tribute Inspirational Project”. This project is a collection of inspirational songs for all and contains two Musical tribute medleys to Lee Williams & The Spiritual QC’S & The Winans. Join the “Timeless Music Movement” with Keith”Wonderboy”Johnson. Keith "Wonderboy" Johnson drops "Believe In Yourself." https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/Keith-Wonderboy-Johnson-Believe-In-Yourself-RADIO-1AER1QexGCYDTPCRoIuQs Emerging right on the heels of "Rise" is Ben Tankard's new follow-up single and official music video "Afternoon Nap". "Afternoon Nap" features Kyle Schroeder on sax and is the second single from Tankard's Chart Topping Jazz Album release RISE. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vBmc7elD9IQ Benita Bellamy Kelley has been one of those driving forces behind new and award-winning artists in Gospel, Christian and Jazz Music. The Tennessee native has offered her genius to dozens of top artists, ministries, and entertainers over her 20-year career span in promoting music, faith-based entertainment, literary and performing arts. Benita is founder and CEO of The Bellamy Group marketing agency adds author and radio personality to her thriving career and diverse brand. Benita has authored and released her first book BORN 2 BE. BORN 2 BE is an inspiring 31-day devotional and enlightening guide to motivate you to tap into your full potential. Benita's powerful book includes many of her own good and bad life experiences while growing up in the mountains of East Tennessee, as a single mother for 20 years, and as an entrepreneur. Each chapter has original or notable personalities' quotes that Benita encourages readers to share on social media. TV One's gripping true crime series ATL HOMICIDE returns for a second season, premiering on Monday, June 17 at 9 p.m ET/8C. Veteran homicide detectives David Quinn and Vince Velazquez of the Atlanta Police Department are sharing some of their grittiest stories, giving audiences first-hand accounts of real-life murder investigations. Thirty-year Atlanta PD veterans, Quinn and Velazquez spent fifteen of those years working side by side in the homicide division. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8sbwIms0pbg&feature=youtu.be THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW. airs Monday through Thursday at its new time 10 PM/9C only on TV One. Joining DL in the studio this week is actress Wendy Raquel Robinson, Monday, May 13; singer Tank, Tuesday, May 14; famed journalist Ed Gordon, Wednesday, May 15; and rapper/co-host of "The Talk" Eve ,Thursday, May 16. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Vw0iVC1hjE&feature=youtu.be Over the past four years students of Morehouse College, Spelman College, and Clark-Atlanta University have labored for educational and personal development in pursuit of their degrees. But this year the upcoming commencement and baccalaureate ceremonies at these Atlanta HBCUs have been targeted for a hateful protest by the religious hate group known as the Westboro Baptist Church. The Westboro Baptist Church (WBC) has been protesting the combat deaths of US military personnel, members of the LGBT community and even innocent victims of tragedies over the past decade. Now, Black parents will hear hatred directed against their children and the institutions that bestowed their degrees. A press release on the group’s website announces the dates and times for each protest and encourages all members and supporters to “Preach the gospel of Jesus Christ” at the events. Each school is targeted for a specific reason by the hate group: Spelman College is targeted because of its commitment to diversity and support of progressive feminist organizations. In response, the WBC posted “More evidence does not seem necessary to demonstrate that this college is being grandly paid to produce perverts who aggressively strive to push others toward proud sin and down the path to hell. Repent!” Beyond making history as the first African American Lamborghini and McLaren dealer in the United States, Thomas Moorehead, President and CEO of Sterling Motorcars, is also establishing a legacy of giving back to the communities he serves. Recently, the Sterling Motor Cars Community C.A.R.E program surprised four single-parent moms with cars during church services held on Sunday, April 28, at the First Baptist Church of Glenarden in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. According to a statement, each of the unsuspecting mothers was gifted with a vehicle at the 8 a.m., 10 a.m., noon, and 6:30 p.m. services, making them the first recipients of the Sterling Motorcars’ Community C.A.R.E. Program. The community-based initiative, which stands for “commitment, assurance, reliability, and excellence,” targets school, local organizations, and faith-based organizations. Pastor K. Jenkins Sr. of First Baptist Church of Glenarden said the moms were selected based on their economic hardships and faithfulness to the church. “We have identified four single parents based on their financial needs, having young children, and being active members of the First Baptist Church of Glenarden,” he said in the statement. “Our recipients are faithfully involved in our ministries and are single parents who recognize that their lives are bigger than themselves. They give generously by serving outside of themselves by helping other people.”https://www.facebook.com/firstbaptistglenarden/videos/411926622693844/ Reach Records founder and influential Grammy Award-winning emcee Lecrae says he’s entered a new season of music and growth in his faith.Lecrae and Reach Records artists Andy Mineo, Tedashii, Trip Lee, KB, GAWVI, 1K Phew, and WHATUPRG have been out on the Unashamed 2019 tour together for the first time in five years. The artists’ aim for the tour is to provide hope in Christ to attendees amid a cultural climate riddled with doubt and anxiety. Lecrae is a trailblazer in Christian hip-hop and paved a path for himself into the mainstream market. But with success came a lot of public criticism, disenchantment, and a bout with depression. Be on the lookout for a new highly anticipated album. Four singers, songwriters and music executives were inducted into the Gospel Music Association’s Gospel Music Hall of Fame May 8. The induction ceremony, held on the campus of David Lipscomb University, also honored recording artists and others who support charitable work. This year’s GMA Hall of Fame inductees were:— Don Moen, a pioneer of the modern praise and worship movement whose 1984 album “Give Thanks” is among the most popular recordings ever released by Integrity Music; Janet Paschal, a vocalist and songwriter whose compositions include “God Will Make a Way”; Tramaine Hawkins, a vocalist who achieved Gospel and mainstream success; and Dottie Leonard Miller, a music executive who founded New Day Christian Distributors and Daywind Music Group. Empire” actors just found out they need to start submitting resumes and getting auditions lined up ‘case after the upcoming 6th season, it’s a wrap. FOX announced early Monday morning in its Upfront conference call that “Empire” was being given the axe after season 6 … which will air next year. And there’s this: according Charlie Collier, head of FOX Entertainment, they’re planning on the final season going out in style; the network envisions a “large TV event” in an attempt to go out with “guns blazing,” reports TMZ. Expanding a comic book’s mythology can bring slighted characters to the forefront. That’s also the case with “L.A.’s Finest,” a TV series riff on the 2003 “Bad Boys II” movie in which women, notably women of color, are driving the action. Gabrielle Union pursued the idea of reprising Syd Burnett, her character from the film who’s on a new path as a Los Angeles police detective, with Jessica Alba joining her as detective Nancy McKenna. They’re also in charge behind the camera, as executive producers on the series debuting Monday on the new Spectrum on-demand platform. Russell Wilson, the Seattle Seahawks quarterback passes the king ring to the front door to his mother, Tammy Wilson. When she asks what it’s for, Russell tells her, “it’s the key to your house.” https://cfvod.kaltura.com/p/591531/sp/59153100/thumbnail/entry_id/0_g4uvrm84/version/100032/width/660/height/395 Luxury brand group LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton has announced the launch of Fenty Maison, a new fashion house from singer and make-up mogul Rihanna. The 31-year-old singer has made history for being the first woman to create an original brand at the famed luxury group. Fenty Maison is set to be a Paris-based collection of ready-to-wear, shoes and accessories, and is expected to debut in the spring of 2019, PEOPLE reports. Chris McNair, the father of one of four young girls killed in the 1963 bombing of an Alabama church, died on Wednesday. He was 93. McNair’s daughter Denise, 11, was one of four girls killed when a powerful bomb went off outside Birmingham‘s 16th Street Baptist Church on September 15, 1963, amid white opposition to the desegregation of public schools. The bomb, which was placed by Ku Klux Klan members, ripped through the church and also killed Addie Mae Collins, 14, Carole Robertson, 14, and 14-year-old Cynthia Wesley. Thomas Edwin Blanton Jr was the second of three people convicted in the bombing. Blanton is the only church bomber still living behind bars. Robert Chambliss was convicted in 1977, and Bobby Frank Cherry, convicted in 2002, They both died in prison. Contemporary Gospel Artist Lamont Sanders' new single, "All That I have (One God)" is available now via DarkChild Gospel & Bear Tag Entertainment. "All That I Have (One God)" is a high-energy track, guaranteed to make you smile at first listen. Written and produced by, Joshua Benjamin White and Lamont Sanders? this upbeat, joyful and melodic promise to God, is a musical interpretation of the scripture, "I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth."- Psalm 34:1. DarkChild Gospel and Lamont's very own production company, Bear Tag Entertainment collaborated to produce the track. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUKhJB0E-Ec&feature=youtu.be CLEO SPEAKS returns with co-host of "Sway in the Morning" Tracy Garraud, and entertainment attorney and podcast host Lisa Bonner on Saturday, May 11 at 9 a.m. ET. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2hmkqW2r0bA&feature=youtu.be The hot new lifestyle series LIVING BY DESIGN WITH JAKE AND JAZZ, featuring brother/sister duo Jake and Jazz Smollett, airs on Saturday, May 11 at 12 p.m. ET. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDOgGna1344&feature=youtu.be Jekalyn Carr's brand-new inspirational message, "I See Miracles," is available at all digital platforms today, Friday, May 10, 2019. The internationally acclaimed and award-winning artist/author/actress/speaker/entrepreneur released the brand new track on her 22nd birthday to radio, April 22, 2019. Now, the chart-climbing song is available for purchase, download and streaming. 7X GRAMMY winner TobyMac’s “I just need U.” just scored RIAA Gold Certification aligning with the wrap of his ever popular “HITS DEEP Tour” drawing hundreds of thousands. “I just need U.” is housed on TobyMac’s latest chart-topping album The Elements. The track marked the multi-platinum selling artist’s fastest song to be certified Gold, and reigned at radio for 12 weeks. “I have been fortunate to have been a part of a lot of great songs,” shares TobyMac. “For ‘I just need U.’ to be setting new benchmarks is crazy!” Fall of 2019 will mark the return of the “TobyMac The Theatre Tour.” Known for selling out arenas, last year marked the inaugural year for the trek which offers fans an unprecedented, intimate music experience. The unique offering will visit a dozen markets in November with special guest Cochren & Co. The legendary Grammy® Award nominated Rance Allen Group (Rance, Tom and Steve), best-known for signature songs such as “Something About the Name Jesus” and “You That I Trust,” is celebrating Mother’s Day by remembering their beloved grandmother, Emma Pearl, who helped raise them. They recorded the old school `70s soul-styled ballad for their 2002 album, “All the Way," as a tribute to her care and influence in their lives. Emma Pearl encouraged Allen’s early call to become a child preacher and singer at the age of five. The talents that she groomed in Allen and his siblings laid the foundation for their five-decade career as contemporary gospel and urban inspirational music pioneers. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight! Hear Rance Allen In His Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/rance_intvw.htm Ayesha Curry knows plenty of women want to shoot their shots at her NBA Champion husband. But she also wants them to know that she’s not having it. And of course, Twitter had a field day. Though Curry and Golden State Warriors star Steph have been married for almost 10 years, she has made a name for herself with a cookbook under her belt, a Food Network show called “Ayesha’s Homemade” and as a spokeswoman for “Covergirl.” She recently made an appearance on Jada Pinkett Smith‘s “Red Table Talk” to discuss family life in the NBA and had some things to say about a troublesome aspect of being married to a well-known figure: groupies. “Stephen is very nice by nature, and he’s very talkative,” Curry explained. “Everything’s very friendly and sometimes to the point where I’m like ‘Okay I’m a grown woman’ so I just insert myself and be like ‘Hello, how are you doing?'” Since the “Red Table Talk,” Curry’s name has been trending on Twitter as many people on social media were debating her words. There were some who honed in on her comments about her husband’s groupies while others argued over whether she as a married woman should be looking for attention from other men. Pastor Chris Wesley is one of the nation’s rising anointed voices. As the eldest son of Pastor Karry and Cheryl Wesley of The Antioch Church of Dallas, Chris has been groomed to be the front line leader for the next generation of the church and body of Christ. He now serves in a pastoral role alongside his father at The Antioch Church and has a dynamic ensemble of young singers called Undignified Praise (UDP), based on an episode in the life of King David found in 2 Samuel 6:22. Chris Wesley and Undignified Praise have released their second single “Psalms 34” featuring powerhouse vocalist Dana Hemphill. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHO-5eIaB98&feature=youtu.be Tyra Banks has come of out modeling retirement to grace the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit 2019 issue. Banks previously appeared on the SI Swimsuit cover in 1996 alongside Valeria Mazza. She made history the following year, when she became the first Black woman to receive her own cover. Banks noted in an Instagram video posted by the magazine that she “never thought it would be possible to be 45 years old and on the cover of this magazine again.” In a tweet sharing the news, the “America’s Next Top Model” host said: “This is for everybody that has been told that they are not good enough because of their body, their age, their everything.” "BE ALRIGHT!" is the follow to the hit "I Won't Be Defeated." Checkout "Be Alright" http://robynonradio.com/digitalradioservicing/damon-little-be-alright/ Meet Kim Washington, who served as a praise & worship leader under the mentor-ship of recording artists, Darwin Hobbs & Bishop William Murphy III. She drops a new Hot tune "Worth Living For." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TK7Wf_J1N_c&feature=youtu.be Robert E. Person will share his pristine vocal ability and music education comprehension abroad in Suwalki, Poland May 17-19. Robert will be a special guest at the IV SOULWALKI GOSPEL WORKSHOP – THE SONGS OF ANGELS GOSPEL WORKSHOP with JOHN TILLERY & LIVING SACRIFICE. The SUWALKI GOSPEL WORKSHOP will boast three full days of joy, music, and singing and a festival concert accompanied by Holy Noiz Jazz Band and Suwalki Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Szymon Markiewicz. Invited by Tillery, Robert (accompanied by Darnell Moore of Washington, DC) will perform at the Gospel concert May 17 and as supporting vocalist to John Tillery who will be recording Sunday evening with the Workshop Choir and Orchestra. Four years after the devastating tragedy in Charleston, South Carolina that shook the nation, Arbella Studios, in association with JuVee Productions and Unanimous Media, presents an SDG and Fiction Pictures Production, “EMANUEL,” opening in movie theaters nationwide through Fathom Events on June 17 and 19 only. Documenting the events of June 17, 2015, “EMANUEL” is a powerful documentary that examines how faith, hope and forgiveness healed a devastated community after the heinous church shooting at Emanuel A.M.E., carried out by white supremacist Dylan Roof. Executive produced by Stephen Curry’s Unanimous Media, Viola Davis and Julius Tennons’ JuVee Productions and directed by Brian Ivie , the documentary compellingly weaves the history of race relations in Charleston, the significance and impact of Mother Emanuel Church, and the hope that somehow emerges in the aftermath. Featuring intimate interviews with survivors and family members, it is a poignant story of justice and faith, love and hate and examines the healing power of forgiveness.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBFSaiyl2bU Meghan Markle and Prince Harry finally gave the world what we've been waiting for this morning: a first look at the adorable new royal baby. He is Prince Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. “He’s just been a dream,” Markle told the press at a photo call on Wednesday, May 8. “It’s been a special couple of days.” She also added that the baby has a "sweet temperament" and is very "calm." "It’s been great. Parenting is amazing," Harry said. "It has only been, what, two-and-a-half, three days...We are just so thrilled to have our own bundle of joy and to be able to spend some precious time as he slowly starts to grow up. The Grammy® Award nominated, Anthony Brown & group therAPy’s “Second Wind” live recording blew through the 4,000-seat First Baptist Church of Glenarden like a whistling tornado this past weekend. The spectacular five-camera audio and video shoot opened up with the blood-pumping cut, “He Always Wins,” featuring Mary Mary’s Erica Campbell and rapper 1K Phew. Neo-Gospel singer-guitarist Jonathan McReynolds sang “Real” while 20-year-old vocal wonder, Kelontae Gavin, set the building ablaze with, “Second Wind.” The Super Fan Flash Mob and acrobatic dancers took over on group therAPy’s Go-go-scented radio smash, “Blessings on Blessings.” Christian Pop star Natalie Grant appeared on stage with her hands raised before she even sang a note. It set the tone for “You Let Nothing.” Tasha Cobbs-Leonard sang the emotionally charge “The Name of Jesus.” Brown and his co-producer Justin Savage has created a body of work with something for everyone. Lowell Pye and DarkChild have created something special! "PATIENTLY PRAISING"featuring Lowell Pye is the 4th radio single from Fred Jerkins’ “A PROJECT OF HEALING” which addresses all phases of the fight against cancer. The song, “PATIENTLY PRAISING” encourages you to patiently and continually praise God from bad news all the way to breakthrough. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=po_44oy_TSs&feature=youtu.be Bryan Andrew Wilson drops a Finger Snapping Spring-Summer Beat. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1u9_DpNOZ1E MM Music Group announces TaMyya J's release of her new single "Number-One." This single cut is from the "Love For Your Name" CD/ DVD effort. TaMyya J is gearing up to release her live DVD Concert with an Exclusive Online broadcast and TV special in June, 2019. Bishop T.D. Jakes has officially announced the launch of Jakes Divinity School . The newest extension of Jakes ministries will begin enrolling students in January 2020. Bishop Jakes, senior pastor of The Potter's House megachurch in Dallas, Texas, will serve as the chancellor of the school and Antipas Harris, a Regent professor, has been named as president. The online divinity school will grant accredited degrees through partnerships with Vanguard University of Southern California and North Central University, a Christian school in Minnesota. The Annual GMA Honors and the hall of Fame Ceremonygoes down Wednesday, May 8, 2019. Watch the 6th Annual GMA Honors program 'live' on Facebook at 7:00 p.m. CT on May 8. This year's GMA Hall of Fame inductees include legendary CCM artist Don Moen, President and CEO of New Day Christian Distributors Dottie Leonard Miller, southern gospel artist Janet Paschal and GRAMMY® award-winning gospel singer Tramaine Hawkins. Special appearances and performances by Governor Bill Lee, Dr. Bobby Jones, Gloria Gaither, Joel Smallbone, Jonathan McReynolds, Kelontae Gavin, Paul Baloche, TaRanda Greene, The Martins and many more. The GMA (Gospel Music Association) Foundation along with partners Christian Healthcare Ministries and CCLI announced its inductees and honorees for the 6th Annual GMA Honors and Hall of Fame Ceremony set for Wednesday, May 8, 2018 at Lipscomb University’s Allen Arena. 20-year-old viral sensation and critically-acclaimed chart-topping singer-songwriter Kelontae Gavin has been selected as one of the tribute performers to salute this years 2019 Gospel Music Hall of Fame Inductee, GRAMMY® award-winning gospel singer Tramaine Hawkins. Retired National Football League player Ben Watson explained the importance of men in battling abortion, stating at a major pro-life rally in New York’s Times Square that “fatherhood begins in the womb.” The “Alive From New York” event on Saturday afternoon was organized by Focus on the Family and featured several speakers as well as a live sonogram of a third trimester baby. Watson called on the men at the gathering to not avoid conversations about abortion, but rather “to step up and to step into these conversations with boldness and with grace and with conviction.” Actress Meagan Good announced that she and husband, Christian filmmaker DeVon Franklin, are ready to start a family. Good was a guest on “STEVE,” the Steve Harvey show, with her “Intruder” co-star Michael Ealy Friday and shared the news. Ealy opened up about his song and the conversation then segued into talking about whether or not Good and Franklin would start their family. “I’ma say this, and it’s funny because I usually don’t talk about it because I was one of those people who knew I would be a mother later in life,” Good told Harvey after he asked her about it. “We talk about it a lot. Like, [Ealy] basically tried to convince me to start like last year. But now I think I’m in a place now where I’m actually ready.” The crowd erupted in praise and Harvey then proceeded to emotionally declare what he believed about his Christian friend and her future parenting. Gospel Music mogul Dr. Earnest Pugh has an extensive discography of albums, singles, and musical collaborations. With 10 chart-topping albums and Top 30 Billboard singles, Dr. Pugh's playlist of hits continues to grow each year. His 2017 albumSURVIVE produced a hit song that would again top the charts from his 2018 album THE UNSUNG HITS, Vol. 1. "God Wants To Heal You" continues to surge as a powerful favorite with a timeless and anointed message of hope and healing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdw-JR1jBqM&feature=youtu.be The Duchess of Sussex has given birth to a baby boy, Buckingham Palace has announced. Meghan went into labour in the early hours of this morning – having been more than a week overdue – and her husband Prince Harry is currently by her side, Buckingham Palace announced. Following what has been dubbed the ‘Sussex Standby’, the baby prince will be seventh in line to the throne, after his father Harry and his niece and nephews Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. Meghan’s mother Doria Ragland had flown to Britain to be at her daughter’s side for the birth of the baby at Frogmore Cottage in Windsor. The Davis’ are a family Gospel group, with a distinctive sound, strong harmony and a wide musical range. They began their musical careers in their hometown of Inkster, Michigan where they grew up singing in the church choir. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmYOmswiqVc THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW airs Monday through Thursday at 11/10C PM. Beginning Monday, May 13, THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW will air at 10 P.M. ET/9C . Joining DL in the studio this week is actor Michael Ealy, Monday, May 6; actress Meagan Good, Tuesday, May 7; actress/comedian Kym Whitley, Wednesday, May 8; and "Divorce Court" Judge Lynn Toler , Thursday, May 9. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IyNYU72i95I Fox News viewers were not impressed that Los Angeles unveiled “President Barack Obama Boulevard” over the weekend, so many lit up social media with a slew of racist slurs against the former president. As previously reported, at a ceremony by LA officials, on Saturday, a 3.5 mile stretch of Rodeo Boulevard was named “Obama Boulevard” The event also included a concert, but it was not attended by the man himself. TV One's premiere of the original film, THE BOBBY DEBARGE STORY, will air Saturday, June 29 at 8 P.M. ET/7C. Debuting during Black Music Month, the film's stars include Roshon Fegan (Shake It Up, Greenleaf) in the lead role as Bobby DeBarge, Tyra Ferrell (Boyz InThe Hood, White Men Can't Jump) as Etterlene DeBarge, Blue Kimble (Media) as Tommy DeBarge and Adrian Marcel as James DeBarge. Big Boi (Outkast) portrays legendary music mogul Berry Gordy, while Lloyd appears as Switch member Gregory Williams. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYrgvhsL54I&feature=youtu.be John Singleton funeral and interment details have been released. Singleton’s service will be observed this Monday at 10am at the Angelus Funeral Home on Crenshaw Blvd. in the Crenshaw District of South Los Angeles. If the Angelus Funeral Home name sounds familiar, that’s because you might recognize it as the same place that handled Nipsey Hussle’s funeral arrangements. After services for Singleton, he will be interred at Forest Lawn-Hollywood Hills. Speaking of his interment, a family member told TMZ that Monday’s funeral will be closed off to the public. However, a larger event will be held on May 21, but at present the details haven’t been worked out. Former President Barack Obama is now a part of the Los Angeles landscape as the city has renamed one of its streets in his honor. At a ceremony by LA officials, on Saturday, a 3.5 mile stretch of Rodeo Boulevard was named “Obama Boulevard.” The event also included a concert, but it was not attended by the man himself. Herb Wesson, the City Council president noted that the location was geographically significant as it was located near the site of one of the former president’s campaign rallies in 2007. “With this change, we are publicly documenting what Obama’s legacy as our nation’s first black President means to our city and our South Los Angeles community. “For every child who will drive down this street and see the President’s name, this will serve as a physical reminder that no goal is out of reach and that no dream is too big,”Wesson added. Today, GRAMMY®-nominated and NAACP Image Award and Stellar Award-winning songstress Koryn Hawthorne released a new remix to her hit song, “Unstoppable”. The track features rising hip-hop star Yella Beezy, well known for his 2018 hit, “That’s On Me”. Showcasing Hawthorne’s rich contralto, 16 motivating bars from Yella Beezy and an infectious R&B and hip-hop infused melody, the uplifting anthem reminds listeners that with God’s help, there’s nothing they can’t do. Hawthorne will be gearing up to perform on Kirk Franklin’s 26-city LONG LIVE LOVE Tou rkicking off in Austin, TX on July 11th. Additionally, fans can see her in performance at the JoyFest in Charlotte, NC on May 25th and at the Essence Music Festival on on July 5th in New Orleans, LA. https://korynhawthornemusic.lnk.to/UnstoppableFtYellaBeezyPR The highly anticipated lifestyle series LIVING BY DESIGN WITH JAKE AND JAZZ featuring brother/sister duo Jake and Jazz Smollett, premieres on Saturday, May 4 at 12 p.m. ET. Jake and Jazz team up to transform the living, work, and play spaces of millennial families and create simple solutions to everyday home design dilemmas. Each episode features inspirational stories of participating guests, an exciting reveal of the new space and a shared meal with recipes curated by Jake and Jazz. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IqGOgkOZ51c&feature=youtu.be Grammy® Award nominated singer-songwriter and producer, VaShawn Mitchell, has assembled a dynamic new generation of worship leaders under the banner of the Gospel Heritage Conference that was founded by Gospel Today magazine founder, Dr. Teresa Hairston. This spirited new effort was recorded live at the annual conference and the initial radio single, "Higher," is led by BET Sunday Best contestant, Shane Davis. The sound of music tastes different when life intervenes with faith. After surviving a near-fatal accident in the midst of a burgeoning singing career, for rising gospel star Micah Lee, the music tastes so much sweeter! Lee - the soul stirring tenor who dropped three consecutive Top 20 hits (“Heaven,” “Forever” featuring Da T.R.U.T.H., as well this past Christmas (2018) chart-topping Christmas single “Tis The Season”), has captivated audiences with an eclectic blend of jazz, neo-soul, R&B and of course, gospel. Now, the independent sensation has teamed up with Fred “Uncle Freddie” Jerkins CEO of Darkchild Gospel and hit songwriter Alvin Garrett. DarkChild Gospel will distribute Lee’s new single set for official release Friday May 10th (Mother's Day Weekend) and Jerkins’newly formed company “We Break Records” will function to service all radio promotion needs for the new single for Micah Lee. RCA Inspiration celebrates a win at the 2019 Billboard Music Awards, with Koryn Hawthorne’s hit anthem “Won’t He Do It” awarded for Top Gospel Song. Marking it the first Billboard Music Award for Hawthorne. Hawthorne’s #1 hit “Won’t He Do It” was a breakout smash that hit #1 on all of Billboard’s Gospel song charts. “Won’t He Do It” spent a record 41 weeks at #1 on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs chart, making history as the longest run at #1 for a female artist on that chart. The song also spent 22 weeks at #1 on Billboard’s Gospel Digital Song Sales chart, 19 weeks at #1 on Billboard’s Gospel Airplay chart, and 3 weeks at #1 on Billboard’s Gospel Streaming Songs chart. “Won’t He Do It” also garnered first-time wins with a Stellar Award and Dove Award over this past year, along with a GRAMMY® Award nomination. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight. Hear Koryn Hawthorne In Her Own Words......https://gospel-spotlight.com/korynhawthorne_intvw.htm Oscar-winning actress Regina King is the latest A-lister to sign a first-look deal with Netflix. According to reports, her production company, Royal Ties, will produce both series and films for the platform, while her sister, Regina King, will serve as head of production. The details of deal have not been revealed. King previously collaborated with Netflix for the 2018 crime drama series “Seven Seconds.” Her director credits include episodes of “This is Us” and “The Good Doctor,” and she will next be seen in Damon Lindeloff’s upcoming HBO series “Watchmen.” Lauren Daigle gave a show-stopping performance of her Christian hit song, “You Say,” at the Billboard Music Awards Wednesday night and swept the awards in her genre. Daigle, who won top Christian artist, top Christian album and top Christian song, she performed a stripped-down, intimate version of her song “You Say” at the popular mainstream event. Billboard host Kelly Clarkson announced Daigle as her “favorite.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIaT8Jl2zpI Playwright Dennis Williams returns to the Washington, DC with one of his most creative production yet featuring Soul Singers KeKe Wyatt & Avery*Sunshine. The highly anticipated musical, I’ve Cried the Blues- The Musical Story of a Lifetime, is scheduled to play one-night only Saturday, June 8, 2019 at The Warner Theatre Washington, DC 20004. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5LVCuSGSRU&feature=youtu.be The ever popular Stellar Award winning Chicago Mass Choir heads to Sweet Holy Spirit Church May 4th for their 20th Annual Spring Concert and 17th Live Recording. The Chicago based aggregation’s last project, "We Give You Praise" helped the Chicago Mass Choir earn a 2017 Stellar Award for Traditional Choir of the Year, and generated the hits “Thank You, Thank You Jesus” and “I Give You Praise," also the rework of the hymn “Hold To God’s Unchanging Hand”.” CMC was founded some 2 decades ago by James Chambers and has dominated the airwaves with unforgettable hits as “I Can Go To The Rock”, “He That Believeth”, “I’m So Grateful”, “Holy Ghost Power,” “I Pray We’ll Be Ready,” “Mighty Good God,” and “God is My Everything.” Karl Malone, the NBA legend “The Mailman,” made a delivery to the Baptist Collegiate Ministry at Louisiana Tech. Aboard his multi-ton CAT Excavator, Malone lifted a stately oak tree that crashed into the BCM’s chapel in an EF3 tornado that left Ruston, La., with widespread damage April 25. Accompanying a video of Malone at work, an observer posted on Facebook April 26, “Karl Malone, former Tech basketball legend and also NBA legend, is manning the yellow CAT machine to help bring down this MONSTER tree on top of the La. Tech BCM. “He just wanted to help the BCM! Thanks, Karl ‘The Mailman’ Malone. You ‘delivered’!!!” The BCM, also on April 26, posted: “Early this afternoon, Karl Malone showed up at the BCM with his team & helped get the last big tree off our roof! Thanks to Karl, the chainsaw crew & our students for helping today with a LOT of cleanup!” The new edition of ‘Obama: The Call Of History’ by New York Times chief White House correspondent Peter Baker lays bare Obams’ fury over the election results. The book was originally released in July 2017 but has been updated with extensive new reporting – and the run through of election day is electrifying. Obama arrogantly thought there was ‘no way Americans would turn on him’ even though Clinton was far from perfect. He likened himself to Michael Corleone in the Godfather and said he was handing power over to somebody who would destroy his legacy. Barack Obama admitted ‘this stings’ after the 2016 election result and spent the night watching the movie Dr Strange to try and distract himself, a new book claims. The former president went from being confident that Hillary Clinton would beat Donald Trump to seeing it as a ‘personal insult’ that she lost. Obama could not believe the American people had ‘turned on him’ for a man he had written off as a ‘cartoon’. More than three decades later, Winfrey is a self-made billionaire (Forbes estimates her net worth at $2.8 billion) with lavish homes tucked behind gates and, yes, her own studio. She has a TV network, too, along with an eponymous magazine and a megadeal with Apple that will include a book club, documentaries and — she teases here — a potential series that would put her back in the interviewing chair. She’s also parlayed her iconic status into opportunities to educate and inspire worldwide. “I want to leave this planet being able to say, ‘Caused no harm, did a lot of good,’ ” she says. Winfrey, 65, received The Hollywood Reporter‘s first Empowerment in Entertainment Award at an April 30 gala. She is promoting her latest book, "The Path Made Clear." “Empire” has been renewed by Fox for a sixth season, one week ahead of its Season 5 finale, though star Jussie Smollett’s fate on the series as the character Jamal Lyon is still uncertain. “By mutual agreement, the studio has negotiated an extension to Jussie Smollett’s option for season six, but at this time there are no plans for the character of Jamal to return to ‘Empire,” Fox Entertainment and 20th Century Fox TV said in a joint statement. After news of the renewal broke, TheWrap obtained this statement from a representative for Smollett: “We’ve been told that Jussie will not be on ‘Empire’ in the beginning of the season but he appreciates they have extended his contract to keep Jamal’s future open. Most importantly he is grateful to Fox and ‘Empire’ leadership, cast, crew and fans for their unwavering support.” After the untimely passing of groundbreaking film director, screenwriter and producer John Singleton, TV One will honor his many accomplishments with themed episodes of its signature series UNSUNG HOLLYWOOD airing tonight Wednesday, May 1 starting at 8 PM ET/7C. The themed episodes of UNSUNG HOLLYWOODfeature candid commentary from Singleton as he shares his connections to Hollywood luminaries and film projects highlighted in the series. The featured UNSUNG HOLLYWOOD episodes include Richard Roundtree, Tupac Shakur and the film "Baby Boy" - Singleton directed the remake of Roundtree's career-defining film "Shaft," directed Tupac in his film "Poetic Justice" and directed the film "Baby Boy." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z7s3v5Olfiw&feature=youtu.be Singer Kenny Smith is emerging as one of the nations most prolific Worship artists. He recently released his new infectious single "All For You" on digital music outlets and to Gospel radio. Kenny has now assembled many of his friends who are worship leaders, songwriters, and musicians to unite as one in worship for a live recording called THE GATHERING PROJECT. THE GATHERING PROJECT will be recorded live Friday, May 3 at Fairfield Baptist Church, Lithonia, GA. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63jOf_lX1Lo&feature=youtu.be After seven years as Harvard’s Plummer Professor of Christian Morals and Pusey Minister of the Memorial Church, Jonathan L. Walton will step down this summer to assume the role of dean of the Wake Forest University School of Divinity, Harvard announced today. When he assumed leadership of the Memorial Church in 2012, Walton took over the role held for almost 40 years by Harvard legend Peter J. Gomes, a renowned Baptist preacher and scholar with a fierce wit who challenged intolerance and prejudice from the pulpit. “Harvard has been an incredible place for me professionally and for my family, personally. We developed incredible relationships that I am certain will stand the test of time and distance,” said Walton, an ordained Baptist minister whose research focuses on the intersections of religion, politics, and media culture. “The Memorial Church embraced me and helped me to grow intellectually and spiritually. Over the past seven years, I feel that we have extended that embrace to a wide array of people from varying walks of life. Those who gather today at Mem Church are both younger and more colorful, literally and figuratively, than when I arrived.” J. Elise Releases New Single #SuperWoman https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mn-48HEuRB0 JoyFest is bringing together legendary Gospel music artists for its summertime festivals. Mary Mary ft. My Block Inc Family, Marvin Sapp, Tamela & David Mann and Tasha Cobbs Leonard! Mary Mary ft. My Block Inc. Family, and Marvin Sapp will be at JoyFest – NC in Charlotte, NC on May 25th! The Mann Family and Tasha Cobbs Leonard are booked for the JoyFest – VA festival at Kings Dominion in Doswell, VA on July 13th ! Stellar Award winners Ricky Dillard and the New Generation Chorale (New G) will celebrate their anniversary headlining the 34th Annual Chicago Gospel Music Festival, going down May 31 and June 1 in Chicago’s picturesque Millennium Park and the Chicago Cultural Center . The opening night’s final performance will feature Chicago Gospel music artist and choir director, Ricky Dillard & New G (Reunion Choir). Bishop Hezekiah Walker, the Stellar and GRAMMY® Award winning gospel music artist, founder and leader of the Love Fellowship Choir will once again return to the festival stage. Anthony Brown & group therAPy, Koryn Hawthorne, Tasha Page Lockhart and Maranda Curtis will appear. Saturday, June 1 an evening with the Stellar Awards will present a celebration honoring Black Music Month and the National Museum of Gospel Music with a lineup of Gospel Music superstars and emerging artists. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight. Hear Ricky Dillard In His Own Words......http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/ricky_dillard_intvw.htm Anthony Evans loves his father and wants to be part of everything his father, Dr. Tony Evans, touches including filmmaking. So, when his father approached him about being a part of his new Kingdom Man film (which releases in theaters this week), he didn’t hesitate to say yes. Although Evans loves working with his dad, he remains intentional about the true purpose of the film. Growing up in a great home and being protected in many ways didn’t lessen his awareness of the crisis in our country. He knows that there’s a battle for the hearts and souls of men. This is why he believes in the Kingdom Man project. When asked what a Kingdom Man is, he answers eagerly, like a kid in grade school jumping to answer a familiar question: “A Kingdom Man is someone who loves God and includes men of all shapes and colors, anyone who is willing to submit his life to God.” Evans states that he’s seen his father exemplify that definition throughout the years. Even in tough times like these, the singer-songwriter has confidence in his dad’s faith and consistency, which is what he believes men will see when they watch the movie. Evans told Christian Headlines that family was a central part of growing up in the Evans household, saying, “family was driven in our home along with the value of supporting each other.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yzCggr1Vr0 Barack and Michelle Obama on Tuesday unveiled a slate of projects they are preparing for Netflix, a year after the former president and first lady signed a deal with the streaming platform. The Obamas’ production company, Higher Ground Productions, on Tuesday announced a total of seven films and series that Barack Obama said will entertain but also “educate, connect and inspire us all.” Higher Ground is producing a feature film on Frederick Douglass, adapted from David W. Blight’s Pulitzer Prize-winning biography. Also in the works is a documentary series that adapts Michael Lewis’ “Fifth Risk: Undoing Democracy,” the “Moneyball” author’s 2018 best-seller about government servants working under the political appointees of Donald Trump’s administration. The production company’s first release will be Steven Bognar and Julia Reichert’s Sundance Film Festival documentary “American Factory,” about a Chinese-owned factory in post-industrial Ohio. Netflix and Higher Ground also acquired Jim LeBrecht and Nicole Newnham’s “Crip Camp,” a documentary about a summer camp for disabled teenager founded in upstate New York in the early 1970s. The Obamas are also developing an upstairs-downstairs drama set in post-WWII New York titled “Bloom,” and an adaptation of The New York Times “Overlooked” obituary column, about deaths unreported by the paper. A half-hour show for preschoolers titled “Listen to Your Vegetables & Eat Your Parents” will instruct kids about food. The projects are to be released over the next several years. John Singleton, a versatile director who made a splash with “Boyz n the Hood” and went on to direct a variety of projects — including “2 Fast 2 Furious” — has died after suffering a stroke. He was 51. The director, who had been in a coma since suffering the stroke on April 17, died Monday, his family told CNN in a statement. “John passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family and friends,” Singleton’s family said. “We want to thank the amazing doctors at Cedars-Sinai Hospital for their expert care and kindness and we again want to thank all of John’s fans, friends and colleagues for all of the love and support they showed him during this difficult time.” In 1992, at the age of 24, Singleton became the youngest person to ever receive an Oscar nomination for best director for “Boyz n the Hood.” Singleton worked steadily in a variety of genres, directing dramas like “Rosewood” and “Baby Boy,” a remake of “Shaft” starring Samuel L. Jackson and the action vehicle “2 Fast 2 Furious,” the first sequel in “The Fast and the Furious” franchise, in 2003. Most recently, Singleton had been active in television as both a producer and director, which included co-creating the FX series “Snowfall” — a drama about the early rise of the crack cocaine epidemic — and episodes of shows such as “American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson,” “Billions” and “Empire.” The 18th Annual I Hear Music Inc. Weekend will take place May 3rd-5th in Cincinnati, Ohio. Thousands are expected from across the country for an exciting weekend to honor ministry/industry leaders, educate, and enjoy music from the top artist in the Gospel industry. I Hear Music Inc is the brain child of Gospel Industry Executive Tracey Artis. Tracey is credited for helping her clients earn over 100 Stellar Awards, 10 Grammy Awards, 5 Platinum Records and 20 Gold Certified Records. The three day weekend extravaganza kicks off with a star studded concert on Friday hosted by Issac Carree. This year's special guest include Fred Hammond, Charles Jenkins, Le’Andria Johnson, Zacardi Cortez, Titus Showers and more. Jennifer Pinckney had hoped to be in Bible study on the evening of June 17, 2015. But her six-year-old daughter had other plans. The two were in the senior pastor’s office at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, S.C., on the night that Dylann Roof opened fire during the church’s Wednesday night Bible study, killing nine people. Among the victims was Clementa Pinckney, the church’s pastor and Jennifer’s husband. She and her daughter heard the shots, barricaded the door and hid under a desk in a secretary’s office, according to her testimony during the penalty phase of Roof’s trial. Be quiet. Don’t say anything,” she told her daughter. The two survived. Roof was eventually sentenced to death. In the years since the attack at Emanuel AME, Pinckney has worked hard to pick up the pieces and to give her daughters a sense of a normal life. It has been almost 4 years. The biggest names in gospel music are converging on the nation’s capital for the ”Second Wind” live recording of the Grammy® Award nominated act, Anthony Brown & group therAPy. The spectacular five-camera audio and video shoot will feature all new compositions and performances from a pantheon of Gospel music luminaries such as Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Erica Campbell, Kelontae Gavin, Jonathan McReynolds, Gaye Arbuckle, Anaysha Figueroa Cooper, rapper 1K Phew, and Jamaican Reggae artist, DJ Nicholas. The big event goes down Friday, May 3, 2019 at the First Baptist Church of Glenarden, Upper Marlboro, MD. Friday Anthony Brown & group therAPy will also drop its new radio single “Blessings on Blessings” to Apple Music, Amazon Music, Spotify and all of the major digital music service platforms. The feel good, summer-groove boasts a hint of the DMV’s Go-go beat. It was written and produced by Brown with co-production by longtime collaborator, Justin Savage. Dove Award nominated, Stellar Award and multiple BMI Award-winning songwriter and producer Derrick Starks celebrates the official launch of his imprint, Starks Music Group and a partnership with the Nashville based United Alliance Music Group with distribution through The Orchard/Sony Music/New Day. UAMG CEO, Founder and veteran music industry label executive Paul Wright stated, “Well, here we grow again. The UAMG family bursts with joy at the addition of Derrick Starks and the Starks Music Group. Derrick Starks is a music wonder with multiple talents as a singer, songwriter, music director and producer. For the better part of two (2) decades, he has played a huge part in helping to contour and add definition to the American Gospel Songbook. Having worked with artists at the forefront of the Gospel music idiom, Derrick has penned songs that will be sung and played for years to come. We are elated to be a part of the next leg of what we know will be a fruitful journey and great adventure.” Queen Latifah hit up the 2019 Tribeca Film Festival over the weekend where she opened up about her career and how her latest business endeavor, The Queen Collective Shorts, is working to uplift women filmmakers. The former hip hop star appeared healthy as she attended the after party for her program amid reports about the status of her health, according to RadarOnline.com. Late last year, the outlet claimed the “Girls Trip” actress had secretly been visiting a cancer treatment center in Beverly Hills for nearly a year. “It’s a serious concern,” said an insider. “She goes every couple of weeks and spends two or three hours inside the infusion unit. She’s been going for at least eight months.” News about Latifah’s health crisis followed the deaths of her brother Lance and her mother after a decade-long heart condition, the report states. Comedian, actor and REACH Media Syndicated Radio host, DL Hughley brings an original brand of comedy and commentary to night time television with his new talk show THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW. The series airs Monday through Thursday at 11/10C PM with an encore the following day at 11/10C AM only on TV One. Joining DL in the studio this week is actor Wood Harris on Monday, April 29; former NBA Player/talk show host John Salley on Tuesday, April 30; actor/singer Tisha Campbell-Martin on Wednesday, May 1; and comedian/actor David Arnold on Thursday, May 2. https://www.youtube.com/embed/-Yo0ZuiSBy4 The legendary R&B singer Peabo Bryson who suffered what’s being described as a “mild” heart attack. The medical emergency happened over the weekend, but we’re just now learning of it. A representative for Bryson, 68, sent the following statement:“Double Grammy / Double Oscar Award-winning balladeer, Peabo Bryson, suffered a mild heart attack at his home in the early morning hours of Saturday, April 27, 2019. He is currently listed in stable condition and is awake and responsive. Both his medical team and family are optimistic for a speedy recovery. At this time, privacy is requested; however, the thoughts and prayers of friends and fans are welcomed and appreciated.” Over the last decade, Zacardi Cortez’s muscularly dynamic vocals have established him as one of soul music’s new leaders. The gruff-voiced tenor has scored No. 1 hits such as “1 on 1” and “Oh, How I Love You.” Now, he’s recorded his most heart-felt musical statement yet with “You Don’t Know.” It opens softly with Cortez singing, “you don’t know what I’ve been through, let me share my story with you.” He reminisces on some of his real-life challenges. Then, against a flurry of crashing symbols, he belts out a raspy testimonial of God’s faithfulness. “I’ve had writing credit on a couple of songs in the past but this is the first time I really focused and wrote a song,” says Cortez who collaborated with Grammy® Award nominated singer/songwriter, James Fortune, on the tune which will appear on his highly-anticipated sophomore album, “Soul of A Man” which is tentatively scheduled for a fall 2019 release. “I’ve been through a lot of things that tortured my soul, but God has brought me through it all,” Cortez says, “I’m now at a place where I’m letting my experience come through my music.” The Houston, TX native has appeared on recordings with the likes of Kirk Franklin and Lalah Hathaway, among others. In just a short time, Bria McDaniel has established herself as a gifted singer with a genuine and sincere heart for being in the presence of the Lord . The very essence of her musicality shines throughout "Receive It," her debut single available at digital retailers now. Bria was privileged to share her gifts during the special Resurrection Sunday Worship service on Easter Sunday hosted by Bishop Hezekiah Walker and the Love Fellowship Tabernacle Church. Already making waves on the international front, "Receive It" heads to radio this week with promotional stops scheduled both locally and regionally leading into the summer. On the heels of success at radio with “God Can Do Anything”, VaShawn Mitchell is set to release a new song and video entitled “Wind of God” on all digital platforms today. “Wind Of God” is a sweeping ballad about the boundless reach of God. With words of strength and praise, Mitchell sings about God’s breakthroughs, and miracles. This follow-up single is part of Mitchell’s roll out to his epic full album, ELEMENTS, slated for release this summer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J0ayPhrmgis Idris Elba and Sabrina Dhowre got married in Morroco! The couple has been engaged for a a tad over a year and sealed the deal Friday in Morocco. They said their “I do’s” at the Ksar Char-Bagh hotel in Marrakesh. The nuptials followed a lavish rehearsal dinner Thursday night, according to British Vogue, which also released the wedding pic. For their special day, Dhowre wore two custom Vera Wang gowns, while Elba blazed a black suit by Ozwald Boateng. John Singleton‘s family has an interesting situation going down that was triggered by him supposedly being in a coma due to his stroke. By supposedly, according to John’s daughter. She says his mother is lying about his condition and he’s NOT in a coma. According to legal documents filed by Cleopatra Singleton, 19, her dad is NOT in a coma and goes on to claim that his condition is actually improving everyday. As TMZ notes, this development is most definitely in stark contrast to the legal docs filed just yesterday by Singleton’s mom, Shelia Ward, who claimed he was in a coma and had suffered a “major stroke.” Page Six notes that “a form from a doctor at Singleton’s hospital filed with the court by Ward’s lawyer Thursday says John Singleton (51) is incapacitated and can’t make his own decisions, but it doesn’t address whether he’s in a coma.” Now as far as Sheila Ward is concerned, she wants to establish a conservatorship so she can handle her son’s business dealings while he is incapacitated. New details have emerged surrounding Magic Johnson’s resignation from the Lakers as president of basketball operations earlier this month.According to a Bleacher Report, the NBA star quit after he was copied on emails between team co-owner Jeanie Buss and general manager Rob Pelinka criticizing his performance with the Lakers. Fox Sports 1 analyst Ric Bucher shared details about the emails during his appearance on “The Herd with Colin Cowherd” on Wednesday. “My understanding is that there were some emails that were exchanged between Rob and Jeanie about Magic and about what Magic was and wasn’t doing,” Bucher told Cowherd. “They were critical emails. And somehow, some way, Jeanie from what I understand was CC’ing or BCC’ing Magic on everything. That was sort of protocol, standard issue. Somehow the exchange between Rob and Jeanie ended up on that string of the blind CC’s that were going to Magic,” he explained. POWER COUPLE DANA CHANEL AND PRINCE DONNELL WHIP UP SUNDAY SUPPER ON THE NEXT EPISODE OF JUST EATS WITH CHEF JJ. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=825fEsqxqVs&feature=youtu.be John Singleton’s condition is worse than initially reported. The 51-year-old director behind films including Boyz n the Hood, Poetic Justiceand 2 Fast 2 Furious was hospitalized at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in L.A. last week after falling ill after a trip to Costa Rica. While under medical care, he suffered a stroke, which had been described as “mild,” but it apparently wasn’t. His mother, Sheila Ward, filed legal documents in which she asks to be named his conservator and “make all medical decisions” for him. Ward stated that Singleton “suffered a major stroke” and “is currently hospitalized in a coma and is unable to provide for his personal needs.” The faith-based film, “Breakthrough” had a successful debut this Easter weekend landing at No. 3 at the box office and earning $11 million. “Breakthrough” came in third behind “Shazam!” and the horror film, “Curse of La Llorona.” The impressive opening is the highest for a Christian movie since last year’s hit, “I Can Only Imagine.” “Breakthrough” has earned $14.6M since its Wednesday opening in 2,824 theaters and $11M over the weekend. This marks DeVon Franklin’s second movie that earned almost $15M opening week. “Miracles From Heaven” earned $14.8M upon its release. With an overall $14M production cost, “Breakthrough’s” three-day take topped the Christian hits, “God’s Not Dead,” and “Fireproof.” Today, Musical Soul Food Festival (MSFFest) announced that it has received a grant from the Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) Music Festival Sponsorship Program. The VTC Music Festival Sponsorship Program is a funding source for established music festivals in Virginia to help the growth of the festival and to increase visitation to local communities, while also building Virginia’s reputation as a music destination. Chesapeake, Virginia is the perfect destination for the Musical Soul Food Festival. It’s great for families and friends traveling together on a budget. They get to enjoy the MSFFest, then explore Virginia's beaches, shopping and amusement parks. We are pleased to be a recipient for this year’s VTC Music Festival Sponsorship Program. The grant enables us to expand our youth and other weekend programming, while continuing to provide uplifting music and entertainment activities for the entire family,” said April Chandler, Event Producer, Musical Soul Food Festival. Legendary award-winning recording artists, Kurt Carr and Fred Hammond will headline this year’s music festival line-up. “Music is an important driver for tourism in Virginia, as well as a vital part of our culture and heritage,” said Rita McClenny, president and CEO of Virginia Tourism Corporation. “Music festivals across the Commonwealth help to amplify vibrant communities and premier destinations that attract travelers from all over the world. We are pleased to support these festivals as they help to show travelers why Virginia is for Music Lovers.” Chesapeake, Virginia is the perfect destination for the Musical Soul Food Festival. It’s great for families and friends traveling together on a budget. They get to enjoy the MSFFest, then explore Virginia's beaches, shopping and amusement parks. We are pleased to be a recipient for this year’s VTC Music Festival Sponsorship Program. The grant enables us to expand our youth and other weekend programming, while continuing to provide uplifting music and entertainment activities for the entire family,” said April Chandler, Event Producer, Musical Soul Food Festival. Legendary award-winning recording artists, Kurt Carr and Fred Hammond will headline this year’s music festival line-up. “Music is an important driver for tourism in Virginia, as well as a vital part of our culture and heritage,” said Rita McClenny, president and CEO of Virginia Tourism Corporation. “Music festivals across the Commonwealth help to amplify vibrant communities and premier destinations that attract travelers from all over the world. We are pleased to support these festivals as they help to show travelers why Virginia is for Music Lovers.” Riding high on the success of his debut single, Louisiana-based new solo artist Titus Showers, a former lead singer and member of two-time Stellar Award nominated chart-topping sibling group, The Showers is set to release his debut solo album,”WHO?” on Friday, May 10, 2019. The album’s includes the uplifting lead radio single “In His Name.” The 7-track album features the heartfelt song “Make It,” the encouraging “It’s Gonna Be Alright,” and a throwback Delta Blues meets old ragtime hymnal “Amen.” Titus revisits three previous recordings – a remix version of the radio hit, “Better” featuring Canton Jones, the praise anthem, “Immediately” – both written and produced by Deon Kipping and “Love” featuring Keyondra Lockett. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IipKI8PuQvM New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, along with notable rapper T.I. and VH1’s “Love and Hip Hop” personality Scrapp Deleon, helped to bail out 23 nonviolent, first time offenders for Easter. The Georgia-based megachurch began raising money for the bailout earlier this year when the holy season of Lent began. The goal had originally been $40,000. However, New Birth far exceeded that goal and raised around $120,000, using the money to help bail out seven women and sixteen men by Easter, according to Fox 5 Atlanta. In addition to giving out the money, New Birth’s bailout program will also include regular check-ins with the offenders who benefited from their charity. Jamal Bryant, lead pastor of New Birth, stated in comments reported by The Telegraph that he “could not be prouder of my New Birth family for answering the call and affirming that everyone deserves a second chance.” GRAMMY® nominee and Dove Award winner Danny Gokey’s fifth studio album release, Haven’t Seen It Yet, makes an impressive debut on the Top Christian & Gospel Album chart landing at #1. Gokey previously announced the second leg of the Hope Encounter Tour, featuring a 31-city line-up, kicking off on September 26th. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYUroWvTQ-o&feature=youtu.be Impacted by the recurring events that seem to shape the constant news cycle of our nation and the world, acclaimed psalmist, worship leader, singer and songwriting Pastor Desmond Pringle challenges believers around the globe to answer the call to pray with the release of brand-new music. I’m Praying For You, produced by Grammy award winning producer Cedric Thompson is the inaugural single from Pringle’s highly anticipated live recording that took place this past February before a capacity audience in Statesville, North Carolina at the Christian Outreach Church of the Piedmont. As a veteran teacher at a troubled high school in Richmond, Virginia, Rodney Robinson wanted to better understand why so many students go directly from school to prison. So he took a job teaching students at a juvenile detention center. Four years later, Robinson has been chosen as the 2019 National Teacher of the Year for his dedication to helping disadvantaged students move beyond their mistakes. “I give my kids empathy, not sympathy, and that’s the key,” Robinson told The Associated Press. Robinson’s selection from among 57 award-winning teachers around the country was announced Wednesday by the Council of Chief State School Officers. As Teacher of the Year, Robinson will spend the next year traveling the country to advocate for students and teachers. He said he plans to focus on ensuring equity for all students and recruiting more black and Hispanic men as teachers. Robinson is among just about 2% of teachers in U.S. public schools who are black men. Another 2% are Hispanic men. The Nigerian brothers who say Jussie Smollett paid them to beat him up have sued the Empire star’s lawyers for defamation and revealed startling allegations they say were made against them including that Smollett might have had a sexual relationship with one. Abel and Ola Osundairo have filed a lawsuit against Smollett’s attorneys Mark Geragos and Tina Glandian who they say maliciously painted them as liars in the public after Smollett’s high profile criminal case was dropped. On April 6, Glandian also claimed in a podcast that they trafficked Nigerian steroids and that Abel, the younger brother, spent the night at Smollett’s apartment. She offered the theory that Ola, the older brother, wanted to ‘test’ Abel before they went to Nigeria by attacking Smollett who is openly gay. They say all of the claims are not only false but defamatory and unnecessary because the case had already been dropped. Founded in 1967 by the Rev. James Cleveland, the Gospel Music Workshop of America is annual convention bringing together people who love Gospel music from America, Europe, Asia, Africa and the Caribbean including a wide range of faiths. This year, the annual board meeting will go down in Los Angeles, California and the annual Summer convention will be taking place in Washington, D.C. Inspired by the group’s multi-generational appeal, super producer, Warryn Campbell, produced their last album, resulting in the hit song, "My Life," which gained a Grammy nomination. The two realized that together they were a force to be reckoned with, and at a recent Stellar Award event, Campbell announced The Walls Group were the newest addition to the My Block family where such artists as Grammy Award winners Mary Mary, Erica Campbell, and newcomer Lena Byrd Miles call home.The Walls Group are dropping new single "Friend In Me." Beyonce’s father, Mathew Knowles, took to Instagram on Tuesday to announce plans to give fans a behind-the-scenes look at how Destiny’s Child was created with a musical based on the R&B hitmakers. “Survivor: The Destiny’s Child Musical” is headed to Broadway, London’s West End, and on a world tour, says Knowles, per TMZ. According to the report, the musical will be told from Knowles’ perspective, as he was the group’s co-creator and manager. “Survivor: The Destiny’s Child Musical” will explore all the good, bad and the ugly of the group’s rise to stardom and and the sacrifices Knowles had to make on the road to building his musical empire. Meanwhile, Beyonce dropped her “Homecoming” LIVE album on all streaming services on Wednesday, and her 2016 visual album “Lemonade” is also now available on Spotify and Apple Music three years after its release. The music star took to her Instagram Story on Monday to launch the #BeforeILetGo challenge by promoting the hashtag with a bee and heart emoji. As “The Young and the Restless” head writer Josh Griffith screened the episode in which Neil Winters’ family learns of his death, the tears began to flow. Viewers might brace for a similar reaction when the CBS daytime serial says farewell to Neil and to Kristoff St. John, the actor who played the character for nearly three decades. St. John, who died at age 52 in February of heart disease, helped cement the prominence of major African-American characters in the traditionally white soap opera world. During a four-episode story arc airing Tuesday through Friday, Neil’s friends and family gather in fictional Genoa City to remember the businessman whose full life included complicated relationships and a battle with alcoholism. Shemar Moore, star of CBS’ prime-time series “S.W.A.T.,” returns to what fans know as “Y&R” for two episodes as Malcolm Winters, Neil’s brother. Other returning alumni include Christel Khalil and Eileen Davidson, while Stan Shaw, St. John’s longtime friend and co-star in “Roots: The Next Generations,” appears as the reverend at Neil’s funeral. A special airing April 29 (12:30 p.m. EDT) will pay tribute to St. John and his nearly 28-year tenure on “Y&R” with clips from the show and current and former cast member sharing memories of him, including Victoria Rowell, who played Neil’s wife Drucilla for a number of years. If you are in pursuit of a career in the music or entertainment industry, Gospel music Industry veteran Tracy Williamson has a book to will step-by-step help lay the groundwork for you to successfully own your moment and take the stage. Tracy Williamson is featured inside The Gospel Spotlight. Hear Tracy Williamson In Her Own Words....http://gospel-spotlight.com/tracywilliamson_intvw.htm In Gospel music, there is a one-man machine known as Robert Hawkins who is the epitome of what the hustle for indie artists exemplifies. The Michigan native is on the road most weekends promoting his EP RESERVED, his DVD HAPPY and his all-new single and official music video "Finished Work". Robert's new Urban Inspirational single "Finished Work" takes an edgy twist from his normal exuberant contemporary Gospel and Worship style. The electronically inspired track is written and produced by Floyd "Timeless" Thomas and inspired a viral dance challenge on social media. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bYURlUHBf8w&feature=youtu.be The Black Business Association (BBA) will host its Annual “Salute to Black Music Awards Dinner” on Tuesday, June 18, 2019 at the California African American Museum, Los Angeles, CA. Reception at 6 PM and the dinner at 7 PM. The event is held in recognition of African American Music Appreciation Month, featuring a Celebration of Gospel Music legends, “The Business Behind the Music.” Special confirmed honorees are: Vicki Mack Lataillade, co-founder of GospoCentric Records receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award, Lisa Collins, Publisher of L.A. Focus will receive the Outstanding Gospel Publication Award and Byron J. Smith, President of National Association Negro Musicians will receive the Outstanding Artistic Vision Award. Tyscot Music & Entertainment has announced a Win-Win Massive Give-Away program that targets church conference coordinators and event planners with vintage Tyscot gospel and inspirational albums to stuff into gift bags for special occasions and conferences. For the cost of shipping and handling, Tyscot will send an assortment of inspirational and gospel CDs for event organizers to place in gift bags for conferences and special events. The packages will include a variety of vintage CDs by artists such as The Rance Allen Group, The Pace Sisters, Bishop Leonard Scott, Bishop Larry Trotter, The Temptations Review featuring Dennis Edwards, Lucinda Moore, GMWA Men’s Choir, Joshua’s Troop, Kathy Taylor Brown, The Las Vegas Mass Choir, Ron Kenoly, Sean Simmonds, VaShawn Mitchell, and many others. To inquire about quantities for your next event, email Jordan Britain at: jordan@tyscot.com T.D. Jakes made remarks at a luncheon to support the Texas Offenders Reentry Initiative, a church program to help former inmates.Criminal justice reform appears to be one of the few topics on which people can find consensus in today’s increasingly polarized climate. Bringing together one of America’s leading pastors and the chief executive of one of the country’s largest companies with a shared goal of encouraging businesses to hire rehabilitated men and women coming out of prison. When Jakes met AT&T’s Randall Stephenson two years ago, he pressed the executive to find solutions to commonplace obstacles ex-offenders encounter upon release. AT&T responded with a pilot program to help qualified, formerly incarcerated prisoners find employment at one of their Dallas-area call centers.But a recent meeting hosted by a Potter’s House ministry placed church pastors right alongside corporate CEOs with a challenge to transform communities and change lives. https://youtu.be/Tq-h7cfWhYs It's her birthday! ,Jekalyn Carr is releasing a brand new track, "I See Miracles," to Gospel radio today, her 22nd birthday to celebrate. The cut was produced and written with Jekalyn's father, Allen Carr. The father / daughter duo come together again to present this inspirational and faith-activating song, "I See Miracles." As a team, they have garnered three #1 Gospel singles at radio within the last three years "You' re Bigger," "You Will Win" and "It's Yours." The release comes fresh on the heels of Carr's Stellar Awards wins. 'The Albertina Walker Female Vocalist of the Year,' 'Traditional Female Vocalist of the Yea'r and 'Traditional CD of the Year' for the effort "One Nation Under God." She will host the "You Will Win" Conference June 21-22, 2019 in Orlando, FL. Kanye West’s Sunday Service was not a traditional Kanye West concert. It was a spiritual, had-to-be-there experience fashioned like a new-age Baptist church revival. West was not here to play his hits, or deliver anything that would have offered clear insight into the mind of one of the most polarizing figures of the last quarter-century. Instead, what he staged outside of Coachella during the early morning of the festival’s final Sunday was a nearly two-hour celebration of the gospel and soul music that’s shaped the framework of his artistry. Centered atop a sprawling, man-made summit near the festival’s campgrounds, West’s vision was church jam session meets performance art. There were hundreds of singers, dancers, a full orchestra and West collaborators Kid Cudi, Ty Dolla Sign, Teyana Taylor and Chance the Rapper. Childish Gambino, Jaden and Willow Smith, Idris Elba, Jermaine Dupri, Lizzo and the entire Kardashian clan were some of the VIPs stretched across parcels of freshly laid turf below the stage. THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW Monday through Thursday at 11/10C PM with an encore the following day at 11/10C AM only on TV One. Joining DL in the studio this week are actor Morris Chestnut on Tuesday, April 23; comedian Tony Rock on Wednesday, April 24; and film producer/preacher DeVon Franklin on Thursday, April 25. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0Gkginkz-4&feature=youtu.be Last year, Andrea René Williams celebrated 20 years as a full-time industry professional in Gospel music. With her career launch taking place at the GRAMMY Awards’ Washington, DC Chapter in 1998, she is known primarily for her public relations and marketing firm, Tehillah Enterprises, where she was blessed to represent artists such as Pastor Charles Jenkins, Martha Munizzi, Byron Cage, Earnest Pugh, Anita Wilson, Gladys Knight, the late Andraé Crouch and many other talented artists, since its launch as an agency in 2006. What few don’t know about Andrea is that she is a singer, songwriter and musician. A producer and engineer as well, she has released a brand new instrumental single entitled, “Won’t Work”. The single is currently available on iTunes, Amazon and other retail and streaming platforms. Stellar Award winning and Dove Award nominated singer-songwriter, Maurette Brown Clark, is back with a desperately passionate song of devotion. The rousing anthem, “I Want Go," is the first offering on her recording label, Nettie’s Child Music. It’s also in keeping with her timeless, chart-topping hits such as “One God” and “It Ain’t Over (Until God Says It’s Over).” Backed by the Grammy® Award nominated act, Anthony Brown & group therAPy, the soulful track is the singer’s first release in four years. It will make its debut on all major streaming and digital service providers April 26. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight ! Hear Maurette Brown Clark In Her Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/maurette_intvw.htm Bishop Paul S. Morton and some of the leading voices of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship (FGBCF) have come together for a soul-stirring, 14-track live album, "A Month of Sundays," which will release this summer. The initial radio single, “Release the Rain” is now available for streaming or download at all major digital service providers. The lilting, mid-tempo track builds into a rousing cry for a spiritual infusion from the heavens. Kirk Franklin Stops by the Steve Harvey Show https://youtu.be/9Kul39dTbaY Director and screenwriter John Singleton is in hospital after suffering a stroke. The 51-year-old’s family issued a statement on Saturday afternoon giving a status on his condition. On Wednesday, April 17th our beloved son/father, John Singleton, suffered a stroke while at the hospital. John is currently in the ICU and under great medical care,’ their statement read. ‘We ask that privacy be given to him and our family at this time and appreciate all of the prayers that have been pouring in from his fans, friends and colleagues.’ TMZ reports that Singleton checked himself into a medical center after suffering weakness in his leg. A family member told the site he had just flown back from Costa Rica, which may have triggered the health issue. The stroke was described as ‘mild’ by sources. Singleton’s pal Snoop Dogg posted a message on social media after the news was reported on Saturday. The Chosen Directed by Dallas Jenkins — the first-ever multi-season series about the life of Christ — for free in an exclusive pre-release period now for Easter. The Gospel Spotlight caught up with Dallas Jenkins. Hear Director Dallas Jenkins In His Own Words.....https://gospel-spotlight.com/dallasjenkins_intvw.htm LONG LIVE LOVE (Fo Yo Soul / RCA), the new album from fourteen-time GRAMMY® Award winning artist, songwriter and producer, Kirk Franklin, is available for pre-order on all digital platforms and available for pre-add on Apple Music. Pre-order or pre-add LONG LIVE LOVE to receive two tracks, “Love Theory” and “Just For Me” instantly. Franklin also premiered the video for “Just For Me” on his YouTube channel today. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TD3zS_GxS3M Award winning, songwriter, worship singer Casey J offers a live concert airing Easter Sunday on Sirius XM Channel 64. "The Gathering at Sirius XM" will air on Saturday, April 20 at 5:00pm EST/ 2:00pm PST and again on Easter Sunday April 21 at 7:00pm EST / 4:00pm EST. PAJAM Music Group has inked an exclusive partnership with Entertainment One (eOne) for distribution on various upcoming projects. PAJAM Music Group’s premiere artist, J Moss, returns, with the release of the single, “VICTORY,” today. “VICTORY” is available now at all major digital retailers. J Moss’ upcoming 2019 album V6 will mark the first full album release under the new partnership. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Q7hiROF1Q0&feature=youtu.be After a four-year hiatus, America’s most inspirational singing competition, “Sunday Best,” makes its triumphant return to BET, as a new and improved. Season 9 takes over Sunday nights beginning in June. The well-established gospel show welcomes back Grammy Award®-winning music legend Kirk Franklin as host, gospel songstress and host of "Get Up Mornings," Erica Campbell as a judge; and adds two Grammy-Award® nominated artists Kelly Price and Jonathan McReynolds as new additions to the panel. With a brand new stage and exciting themed challenges, this season will be the toughest one yet. The new season kicks off with in-person auditions in front of the judges as they narrow the field from 20 to the top 10. For the first time the contestants were able to use an online submissions process, after which the team lead a global search for this year’s contestants, leading up to the much-anticipated live auditions in Dallas, TX, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, GA, and Detroit, MI, Lagos, Nigeria and for the first time-ever London, England and Johannesburg, South Africa, which were open to select international contestants. Praise and worship music is the lifeforce that drives singer and songwriter Kenny Smith. Smith has emerged as one of the most passionate and prolific Praise & Worship singers and has released a new single “All For You”“This single is SPECIAL!” Smith shares. “It’s one of those infectious vertical songs that you just replay all day! I love singing to God and this song is all about God!” UNCENSORED dives deep into the lives of your favorite personalities as they reveal secrets to their success, obstacles they’ve faced, and how they manage this new world of social media that has helped but sometimes haunted their careers. UNCENSORED resumes for its second season and explores the private lives of some of today’s most notable personalities including actress Tasha Smith, actress/singer Naturi Naughton, Grammy Award-Winning R&B artist Ne-Yo and the reigning king of urban gospel Kirk Franklin. Viewers will get a glimpse into the lives of celebrities as they personally reveal their own stories, in their own words. https://youtu.be/63jOf_lX1Lo Enon Music Group introduces the equally powerful and impactful music ministry of Michael L McCants and the ANSI Worshippers in their CD debut EP Vows. “I’ve searched for words to convey how we feel and I’m best to come up with overjoyed,” says Pastor McCants. “We are incredibly grateful to God for his constant display of love defined in the giving of Jesus to save us from our sins and redeem us so that we can have relationship. God gave us a song to sing, a story to tell, a message to deliver, a destiny to fulfill and people to encourage. We want to be sure we are doing our part. Thanks to Miche and Enon Music Group, we get a chance to tell the world that Jesus Saves.” Grammy nominated and Dove & Stellar Award winner Anthony Brown & group therAPy, have done it again! With the eminent return of their new album "Second Wind", Brown is releasing his first single to radio called "Blessings On Blessings". This song is the perfect anthem for the spring/summer season, with it's "GoGo" bounce and simple phrasing, this song can truly be a fan favorite. "Every time I turn around, blessings, blessings, blessings, blessings..." says Brown, as he leads group therAPy through this prophetic song. This song is very friendly for the church choir, praise team and is sure to live on in the church for many years to come. The NAACP Beverly Hills Hollywood Branch's Theatre Viewing Committee has spoken, and the nominations are in for the 28th Annual NAACP Theatre Awards. They all will be honored for their excellence on both the small and large stages during the annual awards dinner, slated going down Monday, June 17, 2019 at the prestigious Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles, California. A musical production depicting the rise of gospel duo siblings BeBe and CeCe Winan's, "Born For This," leads the pack of nominees with 13 nods. Rounding out the 13 nominations, both BeBe Winans and Charles Randolph Wright received nods for Best Playwright. Just as the Winans helped define a modern era of gospel music, "Disco Queen" Donna Summer helped define a distinctive era in American history. Honoring the life and music of disco icon Donna Summer, the Equity Theatre musical, "Summer: The Donna Summer Musical" earns a whopping 10 nods. The drama "Head of Passes" raking in 6 nominations. The critically acclaimed production is a gripping drama about acceptance and the power of faith. The incomparable Phylicia Rashad earned a Best Lead Female nomination for her portrayal of the ailing matriarch. Veteran actor "Joe Morton" picks up a nomination for Best One Person Show for "Turn Me Loose." "Turn Me Loose" is a one-man comedic drama about the extraordinary life of Dick Gregory. The fire at Notre-Dame cathedral on Monday prompted immediate pledges of millions of euros to help rebuild it. On Tuesday, it spurred donations to do the same for much smaller places of worship thousands of miles away that were recently destroyed by arson. crowdfunding campaign for three fire-ravaged black churches in Louisiana received more than $850,000 after it was widely shared on social media on Tuesday. Many users noted that while hundreds of millions of euros had already been pledged to rebuild the famous cathedral, the small churches in Louisiana were still struggling. VidAngel, the popular entertainment app making entertainment good for your home, is releasing the official trailer and the first episode of its original scripted series The Chosen Directed by Dallas Jenkins — the first-ever multi-season series about the life of Christ — for free in an exclusive pre-release period beginning today. https://studios.vidangel.com/the-chosen Jussie Smollett because of his alleged hate crime situation in Chicago. Is out as the lead in the upcoming revival of the Broadway play “Take Me Out.” The play’s originally run started in February, 2003 and had 355 performances. It also won a Tony Award for Best Play. Fast forward to the present where Smollett, who is biracial and openly gay was supposed be the lead as Darren Lemming, a mixed-race professional baseball player at the peak of his career who decides to come out of the closet. Smollett auditioned for the role back in January, just 12 hours before he allegedly staged the the hate crime involving two Nigerian brothers, Olabinjo and Abimbola Osundairo. So far the Chicago Police Dept. has basically determined the 33-year-old actor was lying and that he staged the hoax to boost his celebrity profile. A source tells DailyMail that Smollett had already won the role in the play. Thirteen-time Grammy Award-winner Kirk Franklin recently sat down with EBONY to discuss his upcoming LONG LIVE LOVE album and tour. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5ynWFQV_HA Anthony Evans’ music has always possessed an unflinching authenticity. In the wake of the recent, sudden passings of his aunt, uncle and cousin, and the unexpected news about his mother’s health, Evans is leaning on his faith and family more than ever as he taps into the spiritual yearnings to find an inner spiritual and personal peace during this season of his life. While he recorded the new 11-track album that features the NBC The Voice alumnus re-imagining top worship songs and recording heartfelt originals prior to much of the family news, he readily admits the healing power of the lyrics on the new project are especially significant in light of recent events, particularly the debut single, “Fighting For Us.” Evans, via his own production company, Sherman James Productions, is also making his music and ministry more mobile. In tandem with his sister, best-selling author/actress Priscilla Shirer, Evans will set out on the “FerVent 2.0” outing. Each night, faithful expressions from his new album Altared will be joined with messages from Priscilla’s upcoming movie Overcomer. The tour kicks off the first of 16 soon to be sold out cities in Tyler, TX on May 15. Anthony Evans’ new album Altared will be available through all digital retailers and exclusively via Lifeway Christian Resources. Altared is available now for pre-order. "IT IS SETTLED," the new album from the First Pentecostal Church of North Little Rock (FPCNLR), is a sonically diverse and a spiritually rich project that will bring Sunday morning worship directly to your listening device. The 100 voices of the First Pentecostal Church Mass Choir resplendently bring the 16 tracks to life with vocal harmonies that will please the ear and soothe the soul. "IT IS SETTLED" is an album for such a time as this, to remind listeners of the overall provenance of God - regardless of trial or test. The lead single "This Place" came to life during a worship service one night and has been making its way around the globe. “This Place” has over 100,000 streams worldwide. The lush ballad that reminds listeners that a “miracle can happen in this place” was also recorded in Spanish, and both versions are available on the album. “This Place,” along with the blues-infused, rollicking “Garment of Praise,” are available immediately if the album is pre-ordered before April 19th. R. Kelly is reportedly broke after $150,000 was seized from multiple bank accounts after his former Chicago landlord filed a lawsuit accusing him of owing back rent. The R&B singer has hit rock bottom and currently has -$13 in one of his bank accounts, according to court documents obtained by The Blast. Wintrust Bank, where Kelly holds an account, informed his former landlord that Kelly’s balance with them is in the negatives. Though that bank account has been drained, Kelly is said to have two other bank accounts with Bank of America. One of those accounts held $44,595.58 and the other had $110,056.64. However, all of that money was seized by the landlord accusing Kelly of owing back rent. Kelly has $625 left between the two Bank of America accounts, according to The Blast. According to The Blast, Kelly is not owed any money by the ASCAP, which collects money for artists. In addition to the $154, 527.22 they collected from Bank of America, the landlord is asking the judge release another $50,000 from Sony. A large fire broke out at the Cathedral of Notre-Dame in Paris on Monday evening, causing part of the historic church’s spire to collapse as the blaze spread along its roof. André Finot, a spokesman for the cathedral, said in a telephone interview that the cause of the fire remained unknown, and there was no immediate indication that anyone had been hurt. The fire alarm first went off around 6:30 p.m., Mr. Finot said, adding that the cathedral had been evacuated. As the last rush of tourists were trying to get in for the day, the doors of Notre Dame were abruptly shut without explanation, witnesses said. Within moments, tiny bits of white smoke started rising from the spire. Billowing out, the smoke started turning gray, then black, making it clear that a fire was growing inside the cathedral, which is currently covered in scaffolding. Soon, orange flames began punching out of the spire, quickly increasing in intensity. Days after authorities arrested suspect Holden Matthews, who has ties to Satanism, for the burning of three historically black churches in Louisiana, state Gov. John Bel Edwards along with a local pastor called on congregants of the affected churches to forgive. Speaking at a unity service at Little Zion Baptist Church in Opelousas, which was held for the families of St. Mary, Greater Union and Mount Pleasant Baptist Churches, which were destroyed over the last three weeks, Edwards said he was moved by the push in the community to help rebuild the churches. Both Edwards and Pastor Calvin Moore of Little Zion Baptist Church agreed that it would be better for the congregants to respond to Matthews with forgiveness. Last Wednesday, the Seventh District Baptist Association, a 149-year-old nonprofit religious organization, launched a GoFundMe campaign seeking to raise $1.8 million to evenly distribute between the three churches to help them rebuild. As of Monday morning, just over $60,000 has been raised. The campaign also got a boost from recently retired New Orleans Saints tight end Benjamin Watson, who urged his supporters on Twitter over the weekend to support it. On Monday, the White House said Trump will award the Presidential Medal of Honor to Tiger Woods. Trump is awarding The Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, to Woods on the heels of his sensational comeback win at this past weekend’s Masters Tournament. Spoke to @TigerWoods to congratulate him on the great victory he had in yesterday’s @TheMasters, & to inform him that because of his incredible Success & Comeback in Sports (Golf) and, more importantly, LIFE, I will be presenting him with the PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF FREEDOM!” Trump tweeted. The president did not say when the 43-year-old golfer would receive the award. Riding high on the success of his smash hit single “Open Your Mouth and Say Something," Grammy & Stellar Award winner Brent Jones' Year-round Easter classic "He Rose" is one of the Top Selling Easter songs of All-Time!! Perfect for anytime of the year, Ebony Magazine says...“He Rose is another YEAR-ROUND classic from JDI!” Sandra Dawn drops, RUNNIN,' a powerful mid-tempo song that is resonating with listeners and audiences everywhere. Runnin' speaks directly to the heart of the listener, and moves one to fervently and earnestly pursue Jesus Christ where His grace, peace, love, and safety abides. https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/Sandra-Dawn-Runnin-qNhtWzqfQ9E6HKVghK1UW The 34th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards will premiere on BET Network on Easter Sunday, April 21 at 7:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. CT. Hosted by Kirk Franklin, taped live at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, NV, the stand-out highlight of the evening was an emotional tribute performance by Kelly Price, Erica Campbell and Regina Belle honoring the undisputed Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. The undeniable breakout winner of the annual show was performer Jonathan McReynolds, who swept the awards taking home eight Stellar Awards. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rx5SAgAWfzY&feature=youtu.be The former ESPN host, best known to the non-sports world for tweets about President Donald Trump that provoked the White House to unsuccessfully seek her firing, launches a weekly podcast Monday on Spotify. On the show, “Jemele Hill is Unbothered,” she’ll conduct interviews and give commentary on sports, politics and culture. Coupled with a regular gig writing for The Atlantic magazine and her engagement in December to writer Ian Wallace, the 43-year-old Hill does seems unbothered. Happy, even. Some of her recent Atlantic pieces seem to give a road map for her podcast. She’s written about how NFL players need to look out for their own interests because their teams probably won’t, a “force field” erected by the black community that protected singer R. Kelly from consequences related to his behavior and how — after watching Barack and Michelle Obama interact with Trump at the funeral for former President George H.W. Bush — she wished they wouldn’t always “go high.” Reach Records founder and Grammy-Award winning emcee Lecrae publicly welcomed their first-ever female artist to the Christian record label. Lecrae and his Reach Records team have been out on the Unashamed 2019 Tour and during their recent stop in Orlando, Florida, the rapper introduced The Christian Post to 23-year-old Wande Isola, the long-awaited first lady of the Reach Records family. “It’s a great time in the culture for all this to happen and come together. I’m excited to be here in this moment and see what the future holds,” Wande shared during an interview with The Christian Post. Donald Glover and Rihanna’s secretive new film “Guava Island” is coming to Amazon Prime Video this weekend. Glover tweeted that it’d be available to stream for free starting Saturday at 12:01 am. According to Vanity Fair, it will be available to watch for free for 18 hours. The film is described as a tropical thriller about a local musician who wants to throw a festival. It was shot on location in Cuba and “Black Panther” breakout Letitia Wright co-stars. Glover’s frequent collaborator Hiro Murai, who has directed several episodes of “Atlanta” and the acclaimed “This Is America” music video, directed “Guava Island.” The actor-singer also tweeted the film will be shown at the Coachella following his performance Friday at the music festival. Bryan Popin's joint business venture with Fred Jerkins' Darkchild Gospel, Popin and his imprint, Little Boy Wonder Music has secured a distribution deal with Nashville-based record label, United Alliance Music Group (UAMG). Under the terms of the new strategic distribution deal, UAMG will function as the label and distributor through its Sony Music/The Orchard distribution partnership for all master recordings and visuals. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zeAeNcMdkQ&feature=youtu.be GRAMMY® nominee and Dove Award winner Danny Gokey’s fifth studio album, Haven’t Seen It Yet, is available now wherever music is sold and available for streaming. Additionally, the second leg of Gokey’s hit Hope Encounter tour has been announced, featuring a 31-city line-up. The 31-city tour will kick off on September 26th in Lafayette, LA and conclude just before Thanksgiving in Naperville, IL. The first wave of the Hope Encountertour wrapped earlier this March to rave reviews, leaving fans eager for more music and more tour dates. Sirius XM (Channel 63 “The Message”) will air an exclusive live performance album preview the weekend of April 12th. Recently, Gokey and his wife, Leyicet, are expecting a new baby boy, due in August. https://dannygokey.lnk.to/haventseenityet/pr CLEO TV's signature series CLEO SPEAKS continues with psychologist and former Editor-in-Chief of Heart and Soul Magazine Anita Kopacz, and dancer/choreographer to the stars Denee Baptiste. A child sexual abuse survivor, Kopacz helps victims deal with trauma and is the author of "Finding Your Way." She opens up about her path to healing and work as a psychologist. Known for her stage work with Beyoncé, Denee Baptiste shares her journey as a mother, performer, dancer, motivational speaker and passion for inspiring young dancers to follow their dreams. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aoJNSfv9V70&feature=youtu.be On this week's episode of JUST EATS WITH CHEF JJ, celebrity stylist Devon Milan and comedian Kevin Sean drop by Chef JJ's kitchen to cook up quick and delicious eats. On the menu: Seared Salmon with Sauteed Spinach and King Mushrooms doused in Yasa Sauce. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MwgQhEIPvGM Comedian, actor and REACH Media Syndicated Radio host, DL Hughley brings an original brand of comedy and commentary to nighttime television with his new talk show THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW. The series airs Monday through Thursday at 11/10C PM. Joining DL in the studio next week are comedian Russell Peters on Monday, April 15; actor/comedianGeorge Lopez on Tuesday, April 16; Grammy-nominated singer Kenny Lattimore on Wednesday, April 17; and actor/comedian Chris Spencer on Thursday, April 18. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3jZLV1u2DQs The Northern Delaware Chapter, Inc of the Gospel Music Workshop of America Recording Choir (NDC GMWA) drops new single "All Of My Help." Choirmaster and NDC GMWA leader Minister Wayne E. Carter, Sr. "The Maestro" has been fine-tuning the dynamic choir. "All Of My Help" is produced by A. Jermaine Nixon, written by A.J. Collier and features Tamba Giles as guest soloist. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OJJUPtxzjWs&feature=youtu.be ROBERT COPELAND releases new song "No Distance." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-sTFAAlk8Zo&feature=youtu.be Tyscot Music & Entertainment has signed an agreement with Morton Records – home to Grammy® Award winning singer-songwriter and producer, PJ Morton – to release two exciting projects via Morton Records’ Inspiration division. The first will be the solo album debut by Atlanta-based singer-songwriter, Josiah “Jojo” Martin, who toured as a background vocalist for Fred Hammond and Morton for years. A radio single will release later this year with the full album to follow. In 2020, Morton Inspiration will deliver an all-star project entitled, The Gospel According to PJ, which will feature reinterpretations of hit songs Morton has written for other celebrated artists over the years. The suspect in a string of fires that destroyed three black churches in rural Louisiana is the white son of a sheriff’s deputy whose father helped arrange for his son’s arrest, authorities said Thursday. Holden Matthews, 21, faces arson charges in the connection with the blazes in and around Opelousas, a city of 16,000 where the flame-gutted remains of the buildings evoked memories of civil rights era violence. Louisiana Fire Marshall Butch Browning offered no motive for the fires. He and other officials stopped short of calling them hate crimes. Eric Rommal, the agent in charge of the New Orleans FBI office, said investigators were still looking into whether the fires were “bias motivated.” Browning said there were no indications that anyone else was involved and the danger to churches was over. McDonald's announced the return of one of its staple events, the 13th annual Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour. The longest-running, brand-owned gospel music tour is back with an award-winning talent line-up. This free concert tour begins April 27 and runs until December 13. The 2019 nationwide concert series appeals to a wide range of gospel music lovers with its lineup of award-winning, cross-over talent, including urban gospel artist and pastor Tye Tribbett, R&B powerhouse KeKe Wyatt, hip-hop contemporary artist, Sir the Baptist, gospel songstress Kierra Sheard and beats by DJ Standout. At each stop, the national tour will raise a love offering to support families served by the Ronald McDonald House. Since 2012, the love offering has raised over $800,000 to aid in helping families stay close when their children are ill. Christina Bell's rich and soaring vocals can be heard on her new single, “Going”, which has quickly landed in the Top-30 at radio, and continues to climb. “Going” is a luminous ballad that expresses reverence for God’s mercy, that – as the refrain states – “just keeps going.” Bell is also a cast member in the anticipated biopic The Clark Sisters: The First Ladies of Gospel that will premiere on Lifetime Television next year. Bell plays Twinkie Clark alongside Lovecraft Country’s Aunjanue Ellis who plays Mattie Moss Clark, Kierra Sheard who plays her mother, Karen Clark, Sheléa Frazier as Dorinda, Raven Goodwin as Denise and Angela Birchett as Jacky. Democratic Rep. Karen Bass, who represents Nipsey Hussle’s neighborhood in California’s 37th Congressional District, fulfilled her promise to formally enter the slain rapper’s contributions to South Los Angeles into the Congressional Record. On Wednesday, Bass, a Democrat, honored the beloved artist and entrepreneur on the House floor, calling Hussle, born Ermias Asghedom, “an unabashed son of South Los Angeles,” whose legacy changed the neighborhood forever, The HuffPost reports. “Nipsey Hussle used the platform he created with his music to lift our community as he climbed,” Bass said. “His business ventures, his investments, his philanthropy, his community engagement — every step of the way, he had a sole purpose of bettering the community he came from.” TV One's award-winning documentary series UNSUNG airs the untold story of Grammy-nominated singer Kenny Lattimore at 9 p.m. ET/8C. Kenny Lattimore came straight out of Washington, D.C. in the mid '90s with a smooth R&B sound and look to match. Raised on gospel and the soulful music of popular icons Marvin Gaye and Donny Hathaway, Lattimore made his mark in 1997 with the breakout single "For You." The song would eventually become an enduring wedding classic. UNCENSORED follows at 10 p.m. ET/9C, revealing the journey of multi-talented singer, songwriter and actress Naturi Naughton. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D43PlYmlPrI&feature=youtu.be Award nominations will always excite artists who remain passionate and inspired about making music, and Marvin Sapp is thrilled to receive his fourth Billboard Music Award nomination. Sapp is nominated in the Top Gospel Artist category. Marvin Sapp is also an entrepreneur, author and radio show host. Sapp has partnered with Superadio to produce the nationally syndicated Marvin Sapp Radio Show, which can be heard in 30 markets around the country including New York (WBLS-FM), Atlanta (WXJO-FM), Nashville (WENO-AM) and Norfolk (WBXB-FM). His latest book, "Suitable, " offers a fresh perspective on dating, courtship and marriage from a man's perspective, with insights gleaned from his personal revelations while embarking upon dating himself. Sapp is the recipient of two BET Awards, 24 Stellar Gospel Music Awards, and numerous award nominations. The 2019 Billboard Music Awards will broadcast live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Wednesday, May 1, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC. Urban One Founder and Chairperson Cathy Hughes made history as the first African American woman to be inducted into the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Broadcasting Radio Hall of Fame on April 8, in Las Vegas. To date, there have only been three women inducted into the NAB's Broadcasting Radio Hall of Fame in its 42-year history. The NAB Hall of Fame event was hosted by "Entertainment Tonight's" Kevin Frazier, with an induction ceremony where media, entertainment and technology professionals gathered to honor those who have made radio and television a vital part of the American lifestyle - earning them a place in broadcasting history. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5xWTZoetwI&feature=youtu.be Today, WW – the new Weight Watchers – announced that GRAMMY® Award-Winning Platinum Recording Artist Tamela Mann is joining as a new ambassador. Mann is focused on developing healthier habits and losing weight so that she can live healthier for herself and her family. As an ambassador for WW, Mann will share her weight loss journey and the motivation behind her lifestyle changes, and she is inviting her community of fans, friends and family to join her. Mann is embarking on the final leg of Tyler Perry’s “Madea’s Farewell Tour” and is the recent recipient of an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work for her debut book, co-authored with her husband David Mann and Shaun Saunders, “Us Against the World: Our Secret to Love, Marriage and Family.” Mann will document her experience on the WW program on her social media channels, frequently checking in with fans while on tour, in the studio and during everyday life at home. Connected to her journey on WW, follow her on Insatgram, Twitter and Facebook. Fred “Uncle Freddie” Jerkins III, President of DarkChild Gospel, announces the signing of gospel music’s current rising stars, Last Call, to its roster. Fresh from the 2019 Stellar Gospel Music Awards, where the duo presented on the annual pre-show and performed at various music showcases, the Bermuda based best friends of Last Call, Adrian Jones and Tricay Astwood, continue to celebrate the success of their smash hit radio single, “Victory,” which currently sits at #1 on the Billboard Gospel National Airplay Chart. “Last Call has the entire world declaring victory over their lives and I’m honored to sign them to the DarkChild Gospel family,” says Fred “Uncle Freddie” Jerkins III. The single “Victory” was lifted from Freddie Jerkins’ cancer awareness project, “A Project of Healing. The album, “A Project of Healing,” encompasses fourteen songs of faith, hope and victory to help those who have been impacted by the disease Cancer. Musical artists-turned-actors Lecrae and Phil Wickham, who star in the soon-to-be-released faith-based motion picture “Breakthrough,” say the film’s re-telling of a remarkable true story of faith is what is needed in what the pair call a “post-Christian North America and Europe.” “Breakthrough” tells Joyce Smith’s true inspirational story of faith. Smith is told her son is dead after he falls through a frozen lake. Her faith won’t accept it and she prays him back to life. The film, released by 20th Century Fox, is based on the 2017 book The Impossible, which tells the events that happened in St. Charles, Missouri when Smith’s son, John, fell through the ice on Lake St. Louis. Grammy winner and hip-hop artist Lecrae told The Christian Post he believes the Smith family’s testimony is something people can use and hang on to today. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=go1jaIRQc-o Fires that consumed three historically black Louisiana churches in 10 days are believed to have been intentionally set, a local elected official said Tuesday. The official did not provide specifics about the ongoing investigation but told CNN some pastors in the heart of south-central Louisiana’s Cajun and Creole country are sleeping in their churches as a precaution against additional fires. It is still unclear who is responsible for the fires and will likely take investigators time to sift through what evidence remains to determine if the blazes are connected.As they do, residents and worshippers in St. Landry Parish, where all three fires occurred, are withholding judgment about what may have caused them, even as officials say they contained “suspicious elements” and the episodes evoke recollections of past acts of hate against black churches. Thousands will gather at the steps of this historical landmark for one of the nation's largest Easter sunrise services 6:30 AM on Sunday, April 21, 2019. A Washington tradition featured on the cover of The Washington Post and named #5 on the Washingtonian's The Great Washington Bucket List, this unforgettable service draws Washingtonians, and people from all around the nation and the world alike, while thousands more view the livestream at www.CapitalChurch.org . It began in 1979, as a small gathering of 120 people and has become a massive tradition in Washington DC, drawing thousands of people each year for an inspiring, interdenominational Easter worship experience. The music, the people, the message, and the view make this sunrise service one of the most unique ways to celebrate Easter Sunday morning. “2019 Billboard Music Award” (BBMA) nominations were recently announced with Tauren Wells’smash hit #1 single, “Known,” receiving a nod for Top Christian Song. In addition to celebrating his BBMA, Wells also released a revamped version of his debut album’s track, “God’s Not Done with You.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBDSN_TzUL4&feature=youtu.be Chart-topper Koryn Hawthorne continues to amass a series of firsts, garnering nods for the 2019 Billboard Music Awards with triple nominations across all Gospel categories: Top Gospel Artist, Top Gospel Album (Unstoppable), and Top Gospel Song (“Won’t He Do It”). Fresh off first-time wins at the Stellar Awards and NAACP Image Awards, the inspirational vocal phenom took home a Stellar Award for “Won’t He Do It” as Music Video of the Year (director: Casey Cross), and an Image Award for Unstoppable as Outstanding Gospel Album (Traditional or Contemporary). Hawthorne also made her second consecutive appearance performing on the Stellar Awardsmain stage this year. Catch Koryn Hawthorne performing at the 34th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, airing on Easter Sunday April 21st at 7 PM/6C on BET. The 2019 Billboard Music Awards airs on Wednesday May 1st at 8 PM/7C on NBC. https://KorynHawthorne.com/. This April 28, a new series that explores the transformative power of grace and redemption premieres on television. Offering a rare glimpse into the restorative justice process, each episode of “The Redemption Project with Van Jones” follows the victim, or surviving family members, of a life-altering crime as they journey to meet face-to-face with their offender in the hopes of finding answers or some sense of healing. Van Jones will serve as a guide for the viewer throughout this transformational experience. The series is a powerful testament about our capacity for healing and grace. Van Jones is the author of three New York Times best-selling books. In addition to producing, “The Redemption Project,” he has founded and led numerous social enterprises engaged in social justice including #cut 50 which bring together unlikely allies—formerly and currently incarcerated individuals, community members, crime survivors, local elected officials, and law enforcement. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ntw8TnddpY Leon Timbo is known for bringing jubilant worship experiences to sanctuaries across the nation. Timbo was one of the first African American artists to travel with his guitar sharing his brand of vertical worship. He lives and breathes worship. His recent collaboration, an EP titled “Invitation To Worship”, features a group of worship leaders called Northern Lights United and the new single “Abba” was a standout cut from the project. “Abba” is an intimate love ballad that reads like a prayer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4q3LeziP5M&feature=youtu.be RCA Inspiration garners a total of seven nominations for the 2019 Billboard Music Awards. With nominations across all categories, RCA Inspiration dominates the category of Top Gospel Artist, with nominations for Kirk Franklin, Marvin Sapp and Koryn Hawthorne. RCA Inspiration garners two nominations each, in the categories of Top Gospel Album and Top Gospel Song for Snoop Dogg, Koryn Hawthorne, and Jason Nelson. Snoop Dogg (& various artists) are nominated for Top Gospel Album for his first Gospel release, Snoop Dogg Presents Bible of Love, Koryn Hawthorne garners two nominations, in Top Gospel Album for her full-length debut Unstoppable, and Top Gospel Song for her hit “Won’t He Do It,” Jason Nelson is nominated in Top Gospel Song for “Forever.” Additionally, Kirk Franklin receives a nomination in Top Gospel Song for his featured performance with Tori Kelly on “Never Alone.” The 2019 Billboard Music Awards will be held in Las Vegas, airing on Wednesday May 1, 2019 at 8 pm ET/PT on NBC. Grammy® Award-Winning Recording Artist Tamela Mann announces the launch of her women’s plus athleisure apparel, Tamela Mann Collection, which is available now for limited edition purchase online and hits retail stores in the Fall 2019. The limited edition launch of the sporty Tamela Mann Collection includes six super-chic styles of jackets, tops, and bottoms in shades of grey, black and black and white floral print. Many brands include plus-size offerings, but very few are devoted to making an athleisure line for women that help them express their unique style and flatter their shape,as is the Tamela Mann Collection. NOAH Sets Sail for Movie Theaters This Week! It’s Sight & Sound’s landmark production that has been experienced live by more than 5 million people. And next week, NOAH is headed to movie theaters across the country for three days only: April 9, 11, and 13. Filmed in front of a live audience, NOAH takes you on history’s best-known voyage—along with two of every kind of animal! https://noahevent.com/?vid=oweCqiE3FTA&utm_source=noah_eblast&utm_campaign=partner1&utm_medium=email Grammy & Stellar Award winner Beverly Crawford is back with yet another smash hit “Lion of Judah"! Universally regarded as one of the top vocalists in the world, with a legion of ardent fans including Patti LaBelle, President Obama, Fantasia, etc, The Essential Beverly Crawford - Vol.3 features Beverly in her element ministering praise & worship like only she can! http://www.gospel-spotlight.com The 3rd Annual Gospel Radio Awards hosted by Kim Burrell were held April 1st in Rockford, IL. The show presented by SOAR Gospel Radio and Sunwise Media, Inc. is set to air on The WORD Network, June 21st @ 8 PM ET / 7 PM CT on Channel 373 DirecTV. The Gospel Radio Awards brought together Gospel music’s superstars from across the nation. Karen Clark-Sheard of the Grammy-Award Winning Gospel group, The Clark Sisters, received the Legend Award. Multiple Stellar Award-Winning singer and actress, Tamela Mann, received the Chart Achievement Award. The Grammy-Award Winning worship leader, Tasha Cobbs-Leonard, was honored with the Industry Impact Award, and Dr. Matthew Stevenson was presented with the Luminary Award. This special evening included appearances by Kierra Sheard, Todd Dulaney, Jekalyn Carr, Dorinda Clark Cole, Shana Wilson Williams, Donald Lawrence, Jessica Reedy, Kelontae Gavin, Darius Paulk and other top performers. TV One's UNSUNG airs the never-before-told story of singer Glenn Jones at 9 p.m. ET/8C. UNCENSORED follows at 10 p.m. ET/9C and gives unprecedented access to multi-talented entertainer NE-YO. UNSUNG celebrates the lives of trailblazing musicians whose full stories and journey have yet to be explored. This season promises memorable stories of influential artists including singer/songwriter vocalist Kenny Lattimore and contemporary gospel musician Tasha Cobbs Leonard. Previously featured artists on this season of UNSUNG include Lloyd, Adina Howard, The Jets, Shirley Murdock and Crystal Waters. https://www.youtube.com/embed/Bu_6FjlA5pw Joining DL in the studio next week are hip-hop artist/musician Anderson .Paak, actor Ruben Santiago Hudson, and more guests to be announced next week. The series dives headfirst into the hot topics of the day and dishes on the latest news, entertainment, pop culture and what's trending in social media. Always insightful and informative, Hughley and his co-host Jasmine Sanders use humor to deliver everything from hard news to lighter fare. The nighttime show offers everything from covering the day's major headlines and roundtable discussions to celebrity guest interviews and comedy bits. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqLDr3JK3M4 "2019 Billboard Music Award” nominations were announced today with Motown Gospel and Capitol Records artists receiving five nominations across various categories. Tasha Cobbs Leonard is nominated for the second year in a row for Top Gospel Artist. This nomination is her 6th BBMA nomination, and she won two Billboard Music Awards last year for Top Gospel Artist and Top Gospel Album. Brian Courtney Wilson is being recognized for the album "A GREAT WORK" and earns a nod for Top Gospel Song for his number one single “A Great Work.” It is his second BBMA nomination, following a 2016 nod in the same category for his hit song, “Worth Fighting For.” Motown Gospel, a division of Capitol CMG, also celebrates the nominations of Capitol Records artist Tori Kelly. Her 2018 effort "HIDING PLACE" received three nominations. Top Gospel Artist, Top Gospel Album and Top Gospel Song, for “Never Alone,” featuring Kirk Franklin. Martin Luther King III today announced that he and his family will commemorate his father's 90th birthday anniversary year and the 51st anniversary of his assassination through their involvement in several events. My father, Martin Luther King, Jr., was assassinated 51 years ago on April 4th, when he was just 39 years of age, Mr. King said, in announcing his involvement in key events commemorating the anniversary. "But throughout 2019, we are also commemorating his 90th birthday year, as a time to reflect on the lessons of his life and leadership, and how his followers can use his philosophy and methods of nonviolence to address the critical social and economic problems we face today." As part of the year-long observance, Mr. King said he will present and/or take part in three events: Thursday, April 4th, King, his wife, Andrea Waters King and daughter, Yolanda Renee King will participate in a Candlelight Vigil and Wreath-Laying Ceremony in collaboration with the King Memorial Foundation at 7:00 p.m. at the National Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial in Washington, D.C. Friday, April 5th, Mr. King will convene Interfaith Leaders at The Washington National Cathedral Perry Auditorium at 10:00 a.m., and he will address the gathering. The program will feature a discussion about how leaders in the field navigate the joys and challenges of interfaith collaboration, build relationships, and join in regional efforts to continue realizing Dr. King's dream. Saturday, April 6th 2:45 p.m., King will present "King Talks," a panel focused on the theme, "Where Do We Go from here?" in partnership with the Smithsonian Institute at The National African American Museum of History and Culture, Oprah Winfrey Theater. Recording artist and TV host, JAVEN, has dropped an inspiring new music video, “You Lift Me Up.” The soul-stirring song features the dynamic vocals of Christina Bell, formerly of the gospel girl group, Zie’l. The majestic track hails from Javen’s 7th solo album, Grace. https://www.bet.com/video/bet-gospel/2019/javen-featuring-christina-bell-you-lift-me-up.html The Piney Woods School is hosting its fifth annual “Give from Your Heart” Gospel Festival which goes down Saturday, May 4, 2019 @11 AM to 6 PM on the campus of the historic Piney Woods Mississippi co-ed boarding school. “This is a great way to raise money for the school while also allowing the public to get a glimpse of what we do here,” says Piney Woods School President, Dr. Will Crossley, of hosting the event on its compound. A variety of food vendors will be on hand to feed the hungry crowd and there will be recreational activities for the youth. The all-day concert will feature the Grammy® nominated artists Brian Courtney Wilson and Anthony Brown & group therAPy. Also performing will be Jor’dan Armstrong, Fred Jerkins & Last Call, Tim Bowman Jr., Jermaine Dolly, as well as, Jackson’s very own, Four Washington, the Piney Woods School choir and the Cotton Blossom Singers. Bishop Marvin Sapp & Lighthouse Full Life Center Church welcome musical guest Zacardi Cortez Resurrection Sunday Celebration April 21, 2019 in Flint, Michigan. Lena Byrd Miles, the darling of the Oakland Bay Area has been singing since the ripe ole age of 4. Coming from a musical family, she launched her singing career at her Grandfather's Church where she faithfully lent her gift until transitioning to her current home Church where she serves as Worship Leader alongside her husband Tobias Miles, the Minister of Music. Lena Bryd Miles vocal style recently caught the attention of Grammy Award- winning Producer and President of My Block Inc., Warryn Campbell where she recently inking a deal, she now joins the ranks of the My Block family where such artists as Grammy Award winners Mary Mary, Erica Campbell, JoiStaRR, rising star Jason McGee & The Choir and vocalist Jason Champion call home. her new single is "This Is The Day." Rapper Nipsey Hussle died from gunshot wounds of the head and torso, the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner said Monday. The rapper’s autopsy was completed Monday and his death was certified a homicide. Hussle, the 33-year-old rapper, whose real name was Ermias Asghedom, was shot multiple times outside his South Los Angeles apparel store, The Marathon Clothing, Sunday and pronounced dead at the hospital. The LAPD announced that it has arrested Eric Holder, a 29-year-old Los Angeles man whom authorities have identified as the suspect in the Sunday killing. Meanwhile, a confab Hussle had requested with the Los Angeles Police Commission on how to stop gang violence, previously set for Monday, is being rescheduled in the rapper’s honor, Steve Soboroff, president of the commission, told NBC News and ABC News. Based on John Bunyan's epic masterpiece, The Pilgrim's Progress is one of the most important stories of our faith, and it is coming to theaters for the first time this Easter! The story of The Pilgrim’s Progress has not only strengthened believers, but it also has drawn countless people to Christ for generations. And this movie is no different! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04WXlAcOtS0&feature=youtu.be Over 100 kids showed up to John Jay High School for the MJ 93-90 Foundation's Youth Football Camp in San Antonio, Texas. During this exciting day enthusiastic young athletes took advantage of the opportunity to meet, engage and learn from 10 year NFL veteran Michael Johnson, Josh Reynolds who plays for LA Rams and is also a John Jay High School alumni as well as Super Bowl XLVIII champion Clinton McDonald, Cordaro Howard who played for the Buffalo Bills and the Baltimore Ravens, Jeromy Miles and Robert Geathers formerly of the Cincinnati Bengals, Super Bowl XLVI Champion Isaiah Stanback and Cedric Dickerson, veteran of the Canadian Football League and other coaches including fitness trainer Beau Reinmiller,Cody Eiland, Physical Therapist Eric Jackson and Jamie Tellier. David and Tamela Mann with Shaun Saunders received the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work Debut Author for Us Against the World: Our Secrets to Love, Marriage and Family during the 50th Annual NAACP Image Awards March 30, 2019 at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles. “We are honored and blessed by the recognition from the NAACP Image Awards for our book Us Against the World,” said David and Tamela who are currently performing before sold-out crowds on the Tyler Perry Madea Farwell Tour. “We hope readers are uplifted, spiritually encouraged, and feel inspired about love, family, and marriage when they read it.” RCA Inspiration celebrated a winning weekend at the 2019 Stellar Awards and NAACP Image Awards, with honors at both shows for Koryn Hawthorne, and five additional awards at the Stellar Awards honoring releases from Fred Hammond, Israel Houghton, Tasha Page-Lockhart, and The Walls Group. Taped in Las Vegas on March 29th, Kirk Franklin hosted the 34th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards for the second consecutive year and performed. Hezekiah Walker and Koryn Hawthorne also performed on the show, Donald Lawrence presented, and Phil Thornton, RCA Inspiration’s SVP and General Manager, was inducted into the Stellar Honors Hall of Fame. Kirk Franklin performs "Love Theory" at the 34th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards [Video Credit: Central City Productions] https://youtu.be/aONlHRJsuO0 Christian movie producer DeVon Franklin is preparing for his third film to hit theaters just before Easter weekend. But “Breakthrough,” a movie about a teen’s recovery from spending 15 minutes under broken ice in a frozen lake, has not been his sole focus in recent months. Franklin, the author of “The Truth About Men: What Men and Women Need to Know,” was called on by the Willow Creek Association as it held recent discussions on how churches and individuals can avoid and address allegations of sexual misconduct. Franklin, 40, who was raised in the Seventh-day Adventist faith, talked with Religion News Service about Christian film success, how men should respond to the #MeToo movement, and the importance of observing the Sabbath. Checkout Koryn Hawthorne's Stellar performance. Taped in Las Vegas on March 29th, Kirk Franklin hosted the 34th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards for the second consecutive year and performed. Koryn Hawthorne performs at the 34th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards [Video Credit: Central City Productions] https://youtu.be/gsNlwmaY4T8 (GSN) Over 100 kids showed up to John Jay High School for the MJ 93-90 Foundation's Youth Football Camp in San Antonio, Texas. During this exciting day enthusiastic young athletes took advantage of the opportunity to meet, engage and learn from 10 year NFL veteran Michael Johnson, Josh Reynolds who plays for LA Rams and is also a John Jay High School alumni as well as Super Bowl XLVIII champion Clinton McDonald, Cordaro Howard who played for the Buffalo Bills and the Baltimore Ravens, Jeromy Miles and Robert Geathers formerly of the Cincinnati Bengals, Super Bowl XLVI Champion Isaiah Stanback and Cedric Dickerson, veteran of the Canadian Football League and other coaches including fitness trainer Beau Reinmiller,Cody Eiland, Physical Therapist Eric Jackson and Jamie Tellier. This year’s GRAMMYs on the Hill Awards, going down April 9, will honor Yolanda Adams for her advocacy and Kristin Chenoweth for her philanthropy, as well as Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) for their decisive roles in last year’s Congress, getting the Music Modernization Act across the finish line and signed into law. Four-time GRAMMY-winning gospel artist Yolanda Adams will receive the Recording Academy’s Creators Leadership Award in thanks for her advocacy on behalf of artists in tandem with her philanthropic giving. Current President of the Recording Academy Texas Chapter, Adams has supported her fellow artists and songwriters through many decades of advocacy work. In addition, her support for MusiCares and other charities including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has been selfless, both through performances and by means of financial support. The awards dinner and show will take place at the Hamilton Live in Washington, D.C., with live performances from both Adams and Chenoweth as well as additional special guests. The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), along with Motown Gospel, celebrated the most prestigious names in gospel music at the 10th annual ASCAP “Morning Glory” Breakfast, honoring the 2019 Stellar Awards nominees at The Mirage Hotel in Las Vegas. Hosted by Motown Gospel artist and television personality Lexi, the exclusive invite-only reception was one of the premier events leading up to the 34th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards. Uplifting performances by Motown Gospel artists included the newly signed husband & wife duo, Jerard & Jovaun, who delivered the Hillsong Worship anthem, “What A Beautiful Name,” with a riveting gospel flair. Labelmate Gene Moore debuted “Ask for Rain,” written by Jason Nelson and produced by Terence Vaughn, from his forthcoming sophomore album. Before his performance, Moore gave a personal testimony, explaining that he faced a storm of adversities last year and simply “asked God for rain.” His performance brought the audience to their feet. Moore’s last album, The Future, earned him a 2018 Stellar nomination for New Artist of the Year. BMI honored the best and brightest in Gospel music at the BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music luncheon, held on March 28 at La Cave in Las Vegas, Nevada. Multi Stellar Award-winner and two-time GRAMMY nominee singer/songwriter Travis Greene was awarded Song of the Year for his triumphant single “You Waited,” which hit number one on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs chart and earned him the title of Billboard’s Gospel AirPlay Artist of the Year. The intimate occasion also celebrated the remarkable accomplishments of BMI’s gospel community, recognizing the Ten Most Performed Songs of the Year (2018) from its affiliated songwriters. Those songs included “Change Me” written by first-time award-winner Thomas “TC” Clay; “Close” written by Solomon Edwards, Jr., Aaron Lindsey and Marvin Sapp; “Grace” written by Charles Jenkins; “He Promised Me” written by Bebe Winans; “Kept by His Grace” written by first-time award recipient Harry James Johnson; “My World Needs You” written by Kirk Franklin; “Pray & Don’t Worry” written by first-time award-winners Branden Anderson and Rufus Johnson, III; “Won’t He Do It” written by Makeba Riddick and first-time award recipients Raymond Reginald Murdock, Jr. and Richard Worley Shelton, Jr.; “Work It Out” written by first-time award-winners Stanley G. Green, Jr., George Allen Jordan and T.J. Simon; and “Your Great Name” written and performed by Todd Dulaney. Jussie Smollett, as we reported earlier, was up for an NAACP Image award, but we can now report that the embattled “Empire” actor came up empty. The category that Smollett was nominated for, Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series, was given out Friday night at the nominee’s dinner. The winner of the category was Jesse Williams of “Grey’s Anatomy.” Even though Smollett was in Los Angeles where the NAACP dinner (on Friday night) and the awards (on Saturday) were held and broadcast on TV One, he didn’t make an appearance. “Everyone has a reason to be disappointed with Jussie Smollett right now, and these accumulated reasons justify the NAACP taking swift and appropriate action to remove him from consideration for its Image Award,” said Project 21 Co-Chairman Council Nedd II. In an op-ed published on Saturday, Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx maintained that the actor has neither been “found innocent” nor “exonerated” despite her office’s decision not to pursue the charges. Hall of Fame receiver Michael Irvin has taken to social media to ask fans for their love and support after undergoing a biopsy to see if he has throat cancer, which took his father’s life at 51. Irvin reportedly spent Sunday and Monday at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles undergoing tests on his throat. “This [demon] has chased and vexed me deep in my spirit all my life,” the former Cowboys receiver wrote Tuesday of his father’s death. “So saying I am afraid this time is a big big understatement. I AM TERRIFIED!!” Lifetime has greenlit a miniseries about iconic female rap duo Salt-N-Pepa. The miniseries follows the story of nursing students Cheryl “Salt” James and Sandra “Pepa” Denton as they fall into the world of rap and hip hop, after recording for a friend’s school project. Salt-N-Pepa became the first female rap act to go platinum and experienced ground-breaking success with multiple Grammy wins, paving the way for all female rappers to follow. The miniseries will also feature some of their greatest hits and will be executive produced by Cheryl James, Sandra Denton and Jesse Collins. Queen Latifah and Shakim Compere will also executive produce from Flavor Unit, the report states. Bravo TV star, singer and motivational speaker Brooklyn Tankard is no stranger to violence, depression and the realities of suicide. The daughter of famed gospel jazz musician Ben Tankard and vivacious “Thicker than Water” cast member, has revealed many of her hardships on screen. However, upon witnessing the recent rash of rapes, sexual assaults and suicides affecting people nationwide, she decided to do something, launching a powerful national tour – the I AM Free Concert & Convo, beginning on April 8th. The I Am Free Concert & Convo will travel to over 20 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in 2019 to empower students, alumni, faculty and the community with knowledge to eliminate physical, sexual and psychological violence. Deion Sanders has opened up once again about the lowest point of his life, which also happened to be at the height of his success. On Paula Faris’ Journeys of Faith podcast, Sanders confessed that some of his darkest days where when he was riding high with his lavish lifestyle and regularly having threesomes. “Rock bottom for me was having hundreds of suits and not covering the pain. Rock bottom for me was having hundreds of pairs of shoes but couldn’t take a step in the right direction,” he said. “Rock bottom for me was having 10 cars and wasn’t going nowhere. Rock bottom for me was having a 14,000-square-foot house but never feeling at home.” Sanders noted that there were times he was unable to connect with those around him. “Rock bottom for me was laying between two and three women at a time, but you get up unsatisfied…Laying right beside the person who said they love you, but she didn’t even know you was in pain. That was rock bottom for me,” he said. He then explained how his NFL super star public persona prevented people from knowing the real him. His personal demons eventually led Sanders to attempt suicide in 1997 by driving his car off of a cliff and plunging 40 feet. Obviously he survived the near fatal moment, which forced him to re-evaluate his life. He gave his life to Christ following the attempt and that helped him evolve out of the darkness. Popular R&B singer Charlene Keys, known by her stage name Tweet, is calling it quits with organized religion after suffering “culture shock” from what she describes as an abusive business driven culture in many churches that exploits Christians for monetary gain instead of caring for souls. “I’m sick of it. Enough is enough. I’m tired. It’s coming out in the music, it’s coming out in interviews, it’s coming out. I’m saying what I wanna say,” Tweet said in a recent Instagram Live conversation with her daughter, Shenice, that was shared on YouTube. The Grammy nominated singer best known for her classic 2002 record, “Oops (Oh My)” explained that she sought solace in the church after going through a period of depression and alcoholism. She had gone through some bad spells in her career that caused her to recline from the spotlight, the Los Angeles Times reported. “I took myself on a spiritual journey. My spiritual life is on point now. I wouldn’t be here today if I hadn’t made that choice to go back and rededicate myself. That’s when my blessings started coming — hit or miss, with different labels. It was all done to build me for this time. I didn’t take it personal. I knew to keep the faith. I couldn’t hit anymore rock bottom than I already did,” she explained. That same year, months after Pastor Jamal Bryant of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, Georgia, broke his silence on allegations that he had fathered a child out of wedlock, he introduced Tweet, now 48, as his “last lady” on the now defunct “The Preachers” talk show. That relationship reportedly ended last year. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7qhlbZXv3s Queen Latifah is working with Mary J. Blige and Missy Elliott for feature movie The Clark Sisters: The First Ladies of Gospel. The movie will detail their humble beginnings, struggles to find their place, to later becoming the best-selling Gospel group in the music world. It will tell the story of the five Clark sisters and their mother Mattie Moss Clark. Lovecraft Country’s Aunjanue Ellis plays Moss Clark, while Christina Bell stars as Twinkie, Kierra Sheard as Karen, Sheléa Frazier as Dorinda, Raven Goodwin as Denise and Angela Birchett as Jacky. Thirteen-time GRAMMY® winning artist, songwriter and producer, Kirk Franklin, will release his highly anticipated new album, LONG LIVE LOVE, on May 31, 2019. The album, which is Franklin’s thirteenth studio offering, features the hit single, “Love Theory.” Following the release of the LONG LIVE LOVE album in May, Franklin will embark on the LONG LIVE LOVE Tour beginning on July 11, 2019. The tour will kick off in Austin, TX and make stops in 25 other major cities including, New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, Baltimore, Detroit and Houston. Tickets go on sale on March 29th at 10 am in their respective time zones. Every ticket for this show includes a CD copy of Kirk Franklin’s new album, LONG LIVE LOVE (available May 31st). In addition to the LONG LIVE LOVE Tour, Franklin will be headlining the 2nd Annual Exodus Music & Arts Festival on May 26th in Irving, TX. This year the festival will feature Fred Hammond, The Clark Sisters, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Travis Greene, VaShawn Mitchell and Kelontae Gavin. Timiney Figueroa known for singing "Calling My Name" and "Come Home" with Bishop Hezekiah Walker and Love Fellowship. Then went on to sing with the Kurt Carr Singers. Timiney Figueroa comes full circle to reinterpret the songs that made us love her and her gift. "Timiney’s Journey" is available on digital outlets. BMI Award Winning songwriter, producer music director and international workshop clinician Derrick Starks goes into the uttermost parts of the earth with the Gospel. Starks celebrates the beginning of Spring with news of his composition, Hang On (recorded by the GEI Mass Choir with Kierra Sheard and on the WOW Gospel 2018 CD) has received more than 10 million streams to date via YouTube and other streaming platforms. Starks is elated as he joins Denmark’s Hans Christian Jochimsen, and Germany’s Carmen and Friedemann Wutzer for Gospel Holy Days Workshop and Festival 2019. It's a 3-day workshop and concert pulling together some 1,000 voices from all over Eastern Europe as they celebrate the joy of raising their voices in song. Gospel Holy Days takes place March 29th through the 31st in Zwickau, Germany. Instruction will be offered via masterclasses for singers and musicians with a grand finale concert on Sunday. Starks returns to the US to put the finishing touches on his long awaited highly anticipated Derrick Starks Family and Friends Choir disc as the single is headed to radio within the coming weeks. TV One's award-winning documentary series UNSUNG highlights the journey of songwriter and dance music icon Crystal Waters at 9 p.m. ET/8C. UNCENSORED follows at 10 p.m. ET/9C and dives into the life of famed actress and director Tasha Smith. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkurizuBlog&feature=youtu.be EPM Music Group, the label imprint helmed by vocal virtuoso Dr. Earnest Pugh, celebrates its eighth year of partnership with eOne Entertainment. To commemorate the occasion, EPM is releasing a ‘Best Of’ album that features Sunday morning classics from such artist favorites as Michelle Prather, Zacardi Cortez, Charles Butler & Trinity, Chrystal Rucker and Earnest Pugh himself. Titled the EPM Music Group 8th Anniversary Celebration, the album will be available on digital formats on Good Friday, April 19th. Pre-orders on iTunes begin on Gospel music’s favorite Friday: March 29th - Stellar Gospel Music Awards Weekend. The lead radio single is “I Came to Bless The Lord” featuring the incredible Brittney Wright. In a darkened North Carolina parking lot, an angry black woman waves her Bible in the face of an equally angry, shotgun-wielding white man who has just told her his weapon speaks for him. “This here does the talking for me,” she shouts in the new film, “Best of Enemies.” “Same God made you, made me!” Not the most promising start for a buddy movie. And definitely not what Hollywood screenwriters mean when they say their protagonists “meet cute.” Set in Durham in 1971, before the textile and tobacco factory town became overshadowed by Duke University, the movie spotlights a dramatically unlikely — but nonetheless true — pairing: a local Ku Klux Klan leader named C.P. Ellis and Ann Atwater, a black community activist and single mother. Through their friendship and shared Christian faith, the two demonstrated the possibility of reconciliation in the midst of a traumatic school integration controversy. Based on Osha Gray Davidson’s 2007 book, “The Best of Enemies: Race and Redemption in the New South,” the film opens nationwide April 5 and stars Academy Award nominee and “Empire” star Taraji P. Henson as Atwater and Academy Award winner Sam Rockwell as Ellis. Hitmaker William Murphy has done it again, with his new #1 hit album "Settle Here" The Stellar Award-winning, two-time GRAMMY and Dove Award-nominated recording artist, songwriter and worship leader celebrates the chart-topping debut which is #1 on the Top Gospel Albums chart. "Settle Here" marks the second consecutive #1 debut for Murphy on the Top Gospel Albums chart, following the #1 debut of his 2016 album, "Demonstrate," on that chart. Murphy creates a compassionate bond in live worship on "Settle Here," taking his esteemed vocals and distinct arrangements to call on God’s wonders on songs such as the chart-topping hit single “Settle Here” (Pt. 1), “Praise Break,” “The Greatness of You,” the Zach Williams song “Chain Breaker,” “Shout” and more. The Full - Review of the album is on The Gospel Spotlight Album Review page....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/album_rvw.htm Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir - "Psalm 34" drops a great choir song.....https://youtu.be/DfW2mkkMTAg Attorneys for “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett say charges alleging he lied to police about being attacked by two white men wearing MAGA caps have been dropped. The actor appeared in court in Chicago today for an emergency hearing. In a statement, Smollett’s lawyers said he was a “vilified” victim. He was facing up 48 years in prison on 16 felony counts of filing a false police report. Jussie will surrender his $10,000 bond. But, that’s it. The case is over. The State’s Attorney, Kim Foxx, told Chicago police she was dropping the case because Jussie would have only gotten community service if convicted and she said he has already performed community service so there is no point in prosecuting him. There is no record of Smollett doing community service. We’re told Chicago police are “furious” and feel something untoward is going on with Kim Foxx. TV One will air the 50TH NAACP IMAGE AWARDS: TRIBUTE SPECIAL on Saturday, March 30 at 8pm ET/7C, immediately preceding the live telecast of the 50TH NAACP IMAGE AWARDS at 9pm/8C. The tribute special, sponsored by Toyota, will honor this year's nominees, past winners and significant moments. Hosted and Executive Produced by Urban One Founder and Chairperson Cathy Hughes, the special features in-depth one-on-one conversations with director/actress Salli Richardson-Whitfield, singer/actor John Legend, actor Stephan James, actress Loretta Devine, music industry legend Clarence Avant, soul singer Kenny Lattimore, and Congresswoman Maxine Waters. As previously announced, Anthony Anderson is set to return as host. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3g4ajJ9V4Og&feature=youtu.be The New York Fellowship Children's Choir is the latest Project from Pastor David Wright. This song was birthed from a popular hashtag that tells the world that our God Is The Greatest. The choir consists of children from all over the tri-state New York area from ages 3 to 13 years old. These kids love to sing and they love the God that they're singing about. The song is led by Josiah Battle age 13 and Trinity Miller age 8. https://www.dropbox.com/s/8lojg2m5e8kbhdy/New%20York%20Fellowship%20%20Childrens%20Choir%20%20%20God%20Is%20The%20Greatest.mp3?dl=0 The BET Networks broadcast premiere date of The 34th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards presented by AT&T has been updated to Easter Sunday, April 21 at 7:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. CT. The biggest night in gospel music returns to BET after a 15-year hiatus with gospel legend Shirley Caesar, Sonya Blakey, VaShawn Mitchell, Jelani Winston, Katlyn Nichol and Sandra "Pepa" Denton just added to the list of presenters scheduled to appear. Presenters previously announced include Anthony Brown, Yolanda Adams, Dr. Bobby Jones, DeVon Franklin, Janice Gaines and JJ Hairston. Hezekiah Walker and Phil Thompson have now joined the thrilling list of performers set to hit the stage including Brian Courtney Wilson, Charles Jenkins, Jekalyn Carr, Jonathan McReynolds, Kelontae Gavin, Koryn Hawthorne, Maranda Curtis and Todd Dulaney. As previously announced, the show will feature a moving posthumous tribute to the undisputed Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin by Kelly Price, Regina Belle and Erica Campbell. The performance will be followed by a presentation of the Aretha Franklin ICON Award to the family of the late legend. Kirk Franklin, returns to host the live show taping at Las Vegas’ Orleans Arena on Friday, March 29, 2019. The Dubai government issued a statement Sunday denying reports that embattled singer R. Kelly had booked concerts in the United Arab Emirates city, as his legal team claimed. “Authorities in Dubai have not received any request for a performance by singer R. Kelly nor are there any venues that have been booked,” the government’s Dubai Media Office said, adding that Kelly “has not been invited by the Dubai royal family for a performance.” According to Rolling Stone, the statement from the Dubai Media Office comes days after Kelly’s lawyers filed a motion seeking permission for the R&B star to travel to Dubai to perform concerts, the Associated Press reports. As part of Kelly’s $1 million bail agreement, he turned over his passport. Jekalyn Carr has announced special guests for her second annual "You Will Win" Conference. The event will be held June 21 - 22, 2019 in Orlando, FL. Carr is excited to welcome Tim Bowman, Stephen Brown, Maranda Curtis, JJ Hairston, Koryn Hawthorne, Willie Moore Jr., Paul Morton, Rickey Smiley, and Tye Tribbett to the conference as her special guests. The conference is a natural extension of Carr's ministry - existing to embolden and inspire the people of God to live their most abundant life. New this year will be a very special Honorary Gala banquet to celebrate Carr, her ministry and accolades, presented by her industry peers, friends and family. The banquet will include dinner, music, special guest appearances, and more! Hailing from the Greater Toronto, Canada area, the Powerhouse Fellowship Soul Choir is a group of young adults with a passion and goal to change lives through music. POWERHOUSE has been invited to be part of several major events in the United States including Bishop Hezekiah Walker's Choirfest in Las Vegas, NV (during Stellar Awards week) and has performed with Gospel Music greats CeCe Winans, Pastor Shirley Caesar, The Clark Sisters, and with multiple Grammy-winning legend Stevie Wonder. They have also performed with world-renowned Juno Award-winning Opera soprano Measha Brueggergosman on her "Songs of Freedom" tour. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HfkzvAp__ok&feature=youtu.be Gospel music powerhouse Ruth La'Ontra, has released a magnificent follow-up single to her smash hit, "Kingdom". The new single called "SAFE" is written and produced by the dynamic duo Anthony Brown and Justin Savage. This song features Ruth's skillful vocal range, going from her soft and sultry approach in the verses, to her squalling soprano to close out the song. Ruth's message in the song is timely and simple; that we are all "SAFE" in the arms of the Lord. https://spaces.hightail.com/space/FzA6rKYVKJ The 2019 Michael Johnson Youth Camp San Antonio will rally NFL elite and a number of dedicated sports professionals to instill integrity, promote wellness and build self-esteem within teens. The event is hosted in affiliation with the Northside Independent School District and the United States Army and will be co-instructed by a number of Johnson’s football friends, professional coaches, and league mates. Attendees will not only enjoy the athletically fueled experience but have the chance to win generously donated Spurs, Rampage, Mission, and Commanders tickets throughout the day. A perfect culmination of football and fortitude, the camp is designed to inspire each participant to leave fired up for the future! Kelontae Gavin continues to reach new levels of success and fame. This week, his song “No Ordinary Worship” debuts on the mainstream top 40 radio-based Adult R&B Songs Airplay chart rising from No.41 to No. 39. The song reaches 14.1 million on-demand U.S. audio and video streams combined while sporting 91.3 million in all-format airplay audience to-date. In addition to his Adult R&B Songs Airplay debut, “No Ordinary Worship” reached Top 5 on three genre-based charts: Gospel Songs, Gospel Airplay and Gospel Digital Song Sales charts. Gods Posse is purposed and determined to be used by God to round up souls for the Kingdom. Their only wish is that God will get all of the glory out of their ministry. Their new single "Anchored" is an up-tempo groove that drives home the importance of being "Anchored" in God. Gods Posse's sound stays true the Quartet sound with tight harmonies, the powerful sounds of the electric guitar, and a hard hitting drive. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vfv0SFueDfs&feature=youtu.be&utm_source=2018+Stellar+Award+Nominee+++Gods+Posse+Anchored+3%2F22%2F19&utm_campaign=2018+Stellar+Award+Nominee+-+Gods+Posse+-++Releases+New+Single+%22Anchored%22&utm_medium=email TV One's award-winning documentary series UNSUNG dives into the untold story of 80s soulful songbird Shirley Murdock at 9 p.m. ET/8C. UNCENSORED follows at 10 p.m. ET/9C. Hear Shirley Murdock In Her OwnWords as she talks about life , music, ministry and being featured on TV One's Unsung......http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/queenshirleymurdock_intvw.htm The legendary maestro Kurt Carr is back with new music, with the release of his new single “Bless Somebody Else (Dorothy’s Song)”! The two-time GRAMMY® nominated Gospel icon has crafted a masterful blend to excite the senses and replenish the soul on this new single, available now at digital platforms and newly-released to radio. Carr leads “Bless Somebody Else (Dorothy’s Song)” to new heights, bringing together his friends in an all-star performance of celebrated voices with The Kurt Carr Singers, Miles Caton, Wess Morgan, Fred Hammond, Faith Evans, Yolanda Adams, Smokie Norful, Erica Campbell, Roosevelt Griffin, John P. Kee, Jekalyn Carr, Bishop Paul S. Morton, Keke Wyatt, Bishop T.D. Jakes, Denise Tichenor, and Zacardi Cortez. https://open.spotify.com/album/3IOvhtSm3YUWNlDjm2gFmx Friday, March 22nd Indianapolis Gospel music lovers will gather at Overcoming Church for Pastor Bruce Farr presents Overcoming Church Generations of Praise Choir release concert for their new EP “Making Room for Us”. “Making Room for Us” shares uplifting declarations that reassure, empower and motivate listeners with the energetic testimony of inspired hope. The lyrics from the songs shared on “Making Room for Us” serve to strengthen the listeners’ faith and exemplifies the uplifting mission of Overcoming Church. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnPLVfqJq6U Newcomer Antonio Tucker, an 11-year old preacher and singer from Richmond Virginia, is sitting on top of the Gospel Album Sales Chart this week with his initial BGA Music Group offering “Overcome.” The album features a collection of songs that are sure to uplift your spirit, minister to your soul, and ignite your praise. “Free,” one of the featured cuts from the effort, reminds listeners that Jesus Christ has removed every chain setting them free. “Overcome” reminds listeners that they will overcome every obstacle in life smply because the greater One lives on the inside. “Hold On” has become a favorite. The “Overcome” effort was penned by singer, songwriter, artist manager, and label executive Branden Anderson (known for hits such as “Pray and Don’t Worry,” “I’m Ready,” “Speak It” and “Forever We will Worship”). OneUnited Bank, the largest Black owned bank in America, introduces its new Queen Visa Debit Card as part of its Royalty Campaign. The Bank is celebrating a new generation of Queens in America who are claiming their thrones. From scientists to activists, from educators to entertainers, Black women are changing the world. The impact of #BlackGirlMagic cannot be denied. Some of the most important political and civil rights leaders have been Black women such as Harriet Tubman, Shirley Chisolm, Angela Davis. Some of the most important artists and entertainers have also been Black women, such as the late Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin, Queen Bey Beyoncé, Queen Latifah, Q.U.E.E.N. Janelle Monae, Nobel laureate Toni Morrison and of course Oprah Winfrey. And from 2007 to 2018, the number of businesses owned by black women grew by a stunning 164%. According to Forbes, in 2018 there were 2.4 million Black women-owned businesses. Grammy® nominee and Dove Award winner Danny Gokey, announced that his fifth studio album “Haven’t Seen It Yet,” is available for pre-order now; and available for purchase at all major retail stores and digital retailers on Friday, April 12th, 2019. The second digital single “New Day” has been released as part of the album launch campaign, and the accompanying high-energy lyric video is also available. Two additional album tracks will release prior to the album’s release. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0TrKXehB0pg&feature=youtu.be Shirley Murdock is that rare singer-songwriter who is revered by fans of pop, R&B, dance music and gospel. A queen of the quiet storm sound, she burst onto the ‘80s music scene with Zapp & Roger, starting with her breakout performance with Roger Troutman on ‘Computer Love,’ and went on to become a key part of their touring group. While enjoying a successful solo career that’s lasted four decades, with hits like ‘As We Lay,’ and ‘Go On without You,’ she has also endured a string of ups and downs, including the tragedy of the Troutman brothers murder-suicide in 1999, which nearly spelled the end of Zapp. On this episode of Unsung, Shirley recounts her remarkable journey through music and life, and the faith that’s kept her grounded. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B99JJ5sIB-g KELONTAE GAVIN is releasing his new single "There's No One Like You"; the follow up to his mega hit "No Ordinary Worship". Gavin's new single "There's No One Like You", is a passionate praise and worship ballad that speaks to the "Greatness" of God. Kelontae Gavin is the ultimate worship leader, who is touted to perform on this year's Stellar Awards in Las Vegas where he is nominated for multiple awards. The show will air on Friday, April 19th @ 8pm EST on BET. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCMdE2dAXZc&feature=youtu.be Over the last decade, Zacardi Cortez’s muscularly dynamic vocals have established him as one of soul music’s new leaders. On his own, the gruff-voiced tenor has scored No. 1 hits such as “1 on 1” and “Oh, How I Love You.” Now, he’s recorded his most poignant, heart-felt musical statement yet with “YOU DON'T KNOW.” https://showcase.dropbox.com/s/ZACARDI-CORTEZ-YOU-DONT-KNOW-1yVt8n1H7MXz4COd9BXb4 The Jones Sisters drops,"You Are God." A song that will touch the lives of listeners, old and young! "You Are God," demonstrates a seasoned message with a youthful vibe! It is considered a testament of the many wonders of God and His splendor! Meet The Jones Sisters, Young Ladies on fire for the Lord. Hear Them In Their Own Words.....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/jonessisters_intvw.htm The stars of the gridiron will meet the stars of Music City when the NFL Draft comes to Nashville, Tennessee, in April. The NFL announced that Grammy-winning country star Tim McGraw will perform a free outdoor concert on April 26 and Grammy-winning gospel singer CeCe Winans will sing the National Anthem on April 25 to open the three days of draft events. The league added that more than 20 Nashville-based acts will perform with additional names announced soon. The draft will take place on an outdoor stage in downtown Nashville with additional events for fans at the NFL Draft Experience to be held outside Nissan Stadium, home of the Titans. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight. Hear CeCe Winans In Her Own Words.....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/cece_winans.htm Tyler Perry made an unexpected call to a grieving family of four after the murder of their mother, 45-year-old Tynesha Evans. “It was a call I wasn’t even going to answer. I said, ‘Well, let me answer it to see who it is.’ I answered and the person on the other end said, ‘This is Tyler.’ I said, ‘Who?’ …[H]e said, ‘Tyler Perry.’ At that point, I just broke down crying,” said Evans’ daughter Audrey Turner to WSB-TV. The four children, two of whom are minors, feared eviction following their mother’s death. But, the actor and filmmaker, best known for his role as Madea, covered their rent. He also paid for two funerals — one in Atlanta and another in Evans’ home state of Wisconsin — as well as tuition for freshman Sharadiant Turner, who attends Spelman College in Atlanta. “I’m going to do what she wanted me to do. She started me on math and now I’m going to get to graduate with a mathematics degree from Spelman College without debt. It means everything,” Sharadiant said, as reported by CNN. On March 16, Evans was fatally shot in the parking lot of a Wells Fargo bank in Alpharetta, Georgia. The alleged shooter was her 58-year-old boyfriend. The Alpharetta Police Department reported that an armed civilian heard the attack and responded to the shooter, demanding that he put down his gun, and waited until the police arrived. Tynesha was taken to the hospital, where she died. Harvard University has “shamelessly” turned a profit from photos of two 19th-century slaves while ignoring requests to turn the photos over to the slaves’ descendants, according to a lawsuit filed Wednesday. Tamara Lanier, of Norwich, Connecticut, is suing the Ivy League school for “wrongful seizure, possession and expropriation” of images she says depict two of her ancestors. Her suit, filed in Massachusetts state court, demands that Harvard immediately turn over the photos, acknowledge her ancestry and pay an unspecified sum in damages. At the center of the case is a series of 1850 daguerreotypes, an early type of photo, taken of two South Carolina slaves identified as Renty and his daughter, Delia. Both were posed shirtless and photographed from several angles. The images are believed to be the earliest known photos of American slaves. They were commissioned by Harvard biologist Louis Agassiz, whose theories on racial difference were used to support slavery in the U.S. The lawsuit says Agassiz came across Renty and Delia while touring plantations in search of racially “pure” slaves born in Africa. Jekalyn Carr's hit single, "It's Yours," has spent an ASTONISHING 7 WEEKS at NUMBER 1 on both the Billboard Gospel Airplay chart and MEDIABASE Gospel chart! Clearly, this song has impacted listeners with it's encouraging message! The song is the second number one single from Jekalyn's One Nation Under God project. The song "You Will Win" spent 5 weeks at No. 1 on the Gospel Airplay chart and Carr garnered a GMA Dove Award for Traditional Album of the Year for One Nation Under God. She is nominated for five Stellar Awards - Female Vocalist of the Year, Traditional Female Vocalist of the Year, Traditional CD of the Year, Recorded Music Package of the Year and Artist of the Year and was nominated for two GRAMMY® Awards for Gospel Album of the Year and Gospel Performance/Song of the Year. In addition, she is celebrating her first-ever NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Gospel Album for the project One Nation Under God. She will perform during the star-studded Stellar Awards, the biggest night in Gospel music, on Friday, March 29, 2019 in Las Vegas, NV at the Orleans Showroom. Coming off her first Grammy Award's nomination just last month. Recording artist Doe has released new single titled "Reach". Doe is formerly known as member of GRAMMY, Stellar and Dove Award nominated group “foreverJones". Doe is recognized globally for her infectious and powerful energy on an off stage. Her signature voice, eclectic creativity and sound has been heard on songs like “Cycles” by Jonathan Mcreynolds also leading on "He Wants It All" by foreverJONES and Doe wrote that song which is included on Motown Gospel's 20 year compilation album in 2018. Nona Jones was ordained into the ministry at the age of 17. She has expanded her coast as a highly sought after author, mentor, and conference speaker. As a minister and pastor’s wife, she’s reaching an even greater audience in the digital world as head of Facebook’s Faith-based Partnership Outreach. “I work with pastors and churches, denominations, literally all over the world to help them maximize their use of Facebook to connect to their congregations,” Jones says. “The way that I like to think about it in a ministry context is digital discipleship.” Aretha Franklin’s estate has fired back at Wendy Williams for the “irresponsible” and “mocking” remarks the talk-show host made on her show last week about the upcoming “Amazing Grace” documentary. “Amazing Grace” is a 90-minute documentary featuring footage captured in January 1972 at New Temple Missionary Baptist in Los Angeles, where Franklin was joined by Rev. James Cleveland and his choir for two days of gospel sessions. Warner Bros. reportedly wanted a documentary to chronicle her best-selling gospel album. Spike Lee has described it as “One of the greatest concerts ever put to film.” But Wendy has questioned the doc’s visual quality, Franklin’s natural hair and the true motives behind the film’s release. The family fired back in a statement saying, “1972 was the era of Black Power and Black Is Beautiful. In her short natural hair and simple makeup, Ms. Franklin was in step with the times and appropriate to the occasion. There was no ‘showgirl glamor,’ no ‘pressed hair’ and no ‘eyelashes’ – the lack of which Williams ridiculed on her program. The simplicity of the presentation gives ‘Amazing Grace’ its power.” John Legend is the latest celebrity to weigh in on the recent college admission scandal that’s implicated actresses Lori Loughlin and Felicity Huffman. Both women are among the 50 people who participated in a college bribery scheme to get their privileged kids admitted to elite colleges like Georgetown, Yale, and USC. The news shed light on the rigged admissions system and how rich white folks for decades have bought their way into ivy league colleges. During a recent red carpet interview with Entertainment Tonight, Legend said he wasn’t the least bit shocked by the scandal. “I think it’s a longer conversation because I think a lot of people look at this rightly as fraudulent and dishonest,” he explained. “But the bottom line is, the system has been rigged for wealthy people for a long time. THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW, premiering tonight at 11/10C PM. The show will air four nights a week, Monday through Thursday. Joining DL for premiere night is Philip Smith, president of the National African American Gun Association who'll speak on the New Zealand mosque tragedy and gun rights. Other guests this week include: actor Michael Rapaport and Valencia Love, who posted bail for R. Kelly, both joining on Tuesday, March 19; actor/comedian Cedric the Entertainer and civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump, both appearing on Wednesday, March 20; and actor/comedian George Lopez visiting on Thursday, March 21. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qghvBK9FWg0 Doug Williams is officially retiring as President and CEO of Blackberry Records as of April 1, 2019. Williams was instrumental in signing artists to the label like Bishop Paul Morton, The Canton Spirituals, The Williams Brothers and many others. Williams says “We’ve had an incredible 28 years and made some history along the way. However, God is leading me in other directions at this time in my life.” Doug Williams will continue his involvement in the music industry. When asked about the future of Blackberry Records now that he’s retiring, Williams stated, “As of now, the future of the company is to be determined, however, we’ll make an official announcement once that decision has been made.” Gospel singer Le’Andria Johnson has been a constant source of conversation for her fans and critics. The winner of the hit gospel show “Sunday Best” is known for being a tad bit too transparent. She previously opened up about a longtime struggle with substance abuse, and as noted by MadameNoire, Johnson frequently appears on social media, drinking, cursing and railing against the church, the Grammy winning artist has even complained about her management, Mathew Knowles — Beyonce’s father. There was also controversy over her pregnancy out of wedlock as she continued to minister. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0SAp0eS_Es James Fortune Delivers Another Sunday Morning Hit With His New Single “I Am.” “I Am”, is the highly anticipated single from James Fortunes’ forthcoming album. James drew his inspiration for this single from 2 Peter 1:3, which states “God has given us everything we need for a Godly life though our knowledge of Him who called us by his own glory and goodness”. This worship ballad encourages listeners that we are fully equipped to lead the life God calls us to. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight. Hear James Fortune In His Own ords....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/james_fortune_intvw.htm Motown Gospel's newest family members, Jerard & Jovaun released their debut EP today. The on-the-rise duo, made famous by their performance videos on social media, embody the growing sound of Gospel music that leans into classic worship songs while presenting it with a modern gospel flair. WHAT A BEAUTIFUL NAME is a 5-track digital EP showcasing the couple’s beautiful harmony. Jerard & Jovaun offer renditions of hymns and beloved worship songs. Among the gems found on the project are the title track “What A Beautiful Name,” the prolific worship song “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail),” and the popular anthem “Great Are You, Lord.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=meTJjwk5X_U&feature=youtu.be TV One's award-winning documentary series UNSUNG airs the untold story of 80s family band The Jets at 9 p.m. ET/8C. UNCENSORED follows at 10 p.m. ET/9C and gives unprecedented access to comedian, author and REACH Media syndicated host DL Hughley. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNeWwUf1DHU&feature=youtu.be Real Housewives of Atlanta” starlet, Marlo Hampton, is known for keeping it all the way real on the hit reality series. We have seen her slay with bold and daring style choices, and read some of her co-stars for filth. But what a lot of folks may not know is that when she’s not filming the show, Hampton keeps busy with exciting new business ventures in both beauty, fashion, and philanthropy. She is currently working on a new wig line, “HER,” which stands for Haute, Elegance, Rebel, and an affordable, high fashion accessories line called “Arrie and Emma,” launching this Spring. Marlo is also participating in a charity event on March 16th that is very dear to her heart– Foundation For Fortitude, whose core mission is to expose young women to individual development training and seminars. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight. Hear Marlo Hampton In Her Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/marlohampton_intvw.htm There is a hot group in Detroit that's worth keeping your eyes on,Ellison. They are on the move and making noise. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight. Hear Randy R. Ellison In His Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/randyrellison_intvw.htm Grammy Award-winning singer Kelly Rowland revealed the moment during her time with Destiny’s Child that she knew God made her for a much bigger purpose than accolades. Her testimony was recently featured on Hillsong channel’s new TV show “Now With Natalie,” a six-part series in which wardrobe stylist Natalie Manuel Lee sits down with Christian celebrities who share about their faith, what they wrestle with and their purpose in life. While pop culture icons are often “immortalized through accolades, awards and the devoted attention of fans” but Rowland explains that life is much more than that. The singer said it was at Israel Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, where she first knew singing was what she wanted to do for the rest of her life. Rowland joined the choir and sang her first solo at age five. “As a kid, I just wanted to sing and I wanted to make my dream come true,” Rowland told Lee during a sit-down interview for the Christian channel. After being contacted by a former senior Obama administration official, the Chicago-area’s top prosecutor last month requested that the city police turn over their investigation of an alleged attack on “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett to the FBI, according to texts and emails released by the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office. Tina Tchen, who worked as former first lady Michelle Obama’s chief of staff during her time in the White House, first contacted Kim Foxx by text on Feb. 1 and said the actor’s family had “concerns” about the investigation, according to the communications. Tchen, a Chicago-based attorney, is also the co-founder of the Times Up Legal Defense Fund. At the time of the correspondence, Smollett was still considered by police to be the victim of an assault. The actor was later charged with disorderly conduct for filing a false report for allegedly staging an attack to make him look like the victim of a brutal hate crime. “Spoke to the Superintendent Johnson,” Foxx emailed Tchen on Feb. 1, referring to the city’s top cop, Eddie Johnson. “I convinced him to Reach out to FBI to ask that they take over the investigation.” Foxx also texted with one of Smollett’s relatives, whose name was redacted in copies of the communication released by her office. Foxx recused herself from the investigation before Smollett was charged. Her first deputy, Joe Magats, is overseeing the case. Foxx said in an interview with the Chicago Sun-Times that Smollett’s family was concerned that aspects of the police investigation were being leaked to media. Smollett entered a not guilty plea today Meet new artist, Amanda Lynn, as she make waves in the gospel industry with her fresh sound blending gospel music with the smooth rhythmic sounds of R&B. Signed to 3HP records and recently nominated in three categories, for VOGMA awards. She will showcased her hit single, Better, releasing during the Stellar Awards week in Las Vegas in March 2019. Hear Amanda Lynn In Her Own Words...http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/amandalynn_intvw.htm The Lonnie Hunter Variety Show will begin airing Saturdays from 9-10 p.m. EST in June of 2019 on the Impact Television Network. Lonnie Hunter is expected to bring a new and innovative viewing experience to the faith-based community. Upcoming episodes will include not only top gospel artists but actors, barber competitions, games, comedians and an array of surprises. Hear Lonnie Hunter In Her Own Words...http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/lonniehunter_intvw.htm Anthony Nelson & The Overcomers are exceptionally consistent with Yahweh Worship. Penned by multi-talented songwriter, producer and worship leader Anthony Nelson, “Jealous” is the newly released single taking the #5 spot on the Billboard Gospel Charts (Digital Song Sales). This marks the award-winning collectives’ fourth Top Ten hit "Deeper, Undeserved, Everything, and Jealous" on the Digital Song Sales chart. Flashback Gospelspotlight. Hear Anthony Nelson In Her Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/anthonynelson_intvw.htm Announced by Central City Productions 19-year-old singer, songwriter, social media phenom, and four-time Stellar Award nominee Kelontae Gavin is set to perform on the 34th Annual Stellar Awards presented by AT&T and hosted by Kirk Franklin. The live show will be taped in front of an audience at Las Vegas’ Orleans Arena on Friday, March 29, 2019. It will air Friday, April 19 at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT and 10 PM ET/9 PM CT on BET Networks after a 15-year hiatus. He will perform his smash hit "No Ordinary Worship." The hit song has accumulated over 13 million streams to-date. A teacher at a private Christian school has been placed on leave after reportedly orchestrating a mock slave auction in her Bronxville classroom. Teacher Rebecca Antinozzi is facing criticism after Vernex Harding, the mother of one of her students at the Chapel School, told media outlets that the white teacher recently allowed white students to bid on and “buy” black students, including Harding’s son, as they pretended to be slaves. The state Attorney General’s Office is looking into the situation. “The reports of racist ‘lessons’ by a teacher at the Chapel School are deeply troubling,” Attorney General Letitia James said in a statement. “My office is monitoring this matter closely.” In a statement, Chapel School Principal Michael Schultz apologized for the incident. “The reported racial insensitivity is unacceptable and we do not condone any action that demeans anyone,” he said. Bridgette Hurt revamps Gospel classic "My Liberty" originally sang by Yolanda Adams & The Southeast Inspirational Choir. Produced by Grammy award wining super producer, Kevin Bond; Bridgette gives the classic a new updated flare. Central City Productions today announced a sensational line-up of performers and presenters for The 34th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awardspresented by AT&T, including a posthumous tribute to the undisputed Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. The exhilarating all-star tribute performance by Kelly Price, Regina Belle and Erica Campbell will be followed by a presentation of the Aretha Franklin ICON Award. Kirk Franklin, will return to host the live show taping at Las Vegas’ Orleans Arena on Friday, March 29, 2019. For the first time since 2005, The Stellar Awards telecast will premiere on BET on Friday, April 19 at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT and again at 10 p.m. ET/9 p.m. CT. The biggest night in gospel music will also feature rousing performances by Brian Courtney Wilson, Charles Jenkins, Jekalyn Carr, Jonathan McReynolds, Kelontae Gavin, Koryn Hawthorne, Maranda Curtis and Todd Dulaney. Among this year’s presenters are Anthony Brown, Yolanda Adams, Dr. Bobby Jones, DeVon Franklin, Janice Gaines and JJ Hairston. As previously announced, The Stellar Awards nominees with multiple nominations include Jonathan McReynolds, Maranda Curtis, Todd Dulaney, Jekalyn Carr, Koryn Hawthorne, Snoop Dogg, Tori Kelly, Bishop Noel Jones & City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir, Jarell Smalls and Company, Kelontae Gavin and Tasha Page-Lockhart. The South Carolina megachurch pastor who drew criticism when he bought his wife a $200,000 Lamborghini as an anniversary present last December, denied cheating on her in a national television appearance. Seated next to his wife, Aventer, John Gray answered a question from one of the hosts of “The Real” about having an affair. “The answer is no. I didn’t,” video posted on YouTube shows Gray saying on the talk show that aired Monday. He also denied fathering a child as a result of an affair, saying “There’s no baby, none of that.” Gray, whose Relentless Church is based out of Greenville, has said in the past that he failed his wife before giving her the expensive car, The State reported. On “The Real,” Gray reiterated that the couple had been “in a very difficult place in our marriage.” Gray admitted to having an “emotional affair.” https://youtu.be/flg3DgHEQ90 Longtime patrons of Black Ensemble Theater are probably familiar with the post-curtain speech sometimes heard there. “Going to Black Ensemble is just like going to church — because there’s a donation basket in the lobby.” But their latest show is a spiritual experience. The Black ensemble Theater in Chicago showcases the Queen of Gospel. In “Mahalia Jackson: Moving Through the Light,” writer/director/BET founder Jackie Taylor imagines an afterlife for Jackson that’s not exactly heaven (or so we’re told), but where the music is heavenly. It’s lighter on the biographical details than some past shows, but it does a gorgeous job of capturing the emotional resonances of Jackson’s performances and making it clear why she became a star, despite her steadfast refusal to perform secular music. The Williams Singers are back. Brothers Darnell, Dezmien and Dezrale follow up their hugely successful 2017 CD "In Real Time" with a single that bespeaks the blessings that surround a believer who walks in the favor of God. BU is written by Darnell Williams and serves as the inaugural single from the group’s new album, Quartagious that hits digital and retail outlets in July. Freeda Foreman, the 42-year-old daughter of famed ex-heavyweight champion George Foreman reportedly has died of suicide. Freeda Foreman, whose middle name is also George, was found unresponsive in her home by a family member. The Harris County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that officers were called to her Atascocita, Texas residence around 6:13 p.m. local time Friday night. Atascocita EMS were at the home and determined the woman, Freeda George Foreman, was deceased,” police said. “Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homicide investigators also responded to the scene. Preliminary indications are that the cause of death is an apparent suicide. A final determination on the cause of death will be made by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences.” As of this posting, the former world heavyweight champion has not spoken publicly on his daughter’s death, however he tweeted Sunday morning about how " how heaven sends so many wonder." Please keep the family in your prayers. Stellar Gospel Awards has announced Miz Tiffany as the first ever solo female rapper to be nominated for Rap/Hip Hop Gospel CD of the Year and the accolade is certainly well-deserved. Not only could Miz Tiffany potentially be recognized as the first for her self-written hit, “I Ain’t Preachin to the Choir” but for also performing alongside Emcee N.I.C.E. and Jor’Dan Armstrong in the Hip Hop Cypher LIVE at the 34 Stellar Awards Gospel Radio Awards Showcase, March 29 at 10:00 AM in Las Vegas, NV during Stellar Weekend. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight. Hear Miz Tiffany in Her Own Words....https://www.gospel-spotlight.com/miztiffany_intvw.htm Koryn Hawthorne and Jason Avant were featured with Chef JJ Johnson on JUST EATS WITH CHEF JJ on weekend On Cleo TV. The trio kick off the episode preparing mocktails made with pineapple juice, orange juice and sparkling water. A former finalist on “The Voice” and protégé of Pharrell Williams, Hawthorne’s debut album topped the Gospel Album charts before she was 21 years old. Koryn brings the spice and gifts JJ with “Slap Your Mama” seasoning, the perfect addition to the spicy menu. Jason Avant successfully transitioned from a NFL player to entrepreneur with four trampoline parks, a venture that combines his love for fitness and youth. He inspires individuals to follow their heart and passion to pursue entrepreneurial endeavors. Tune into the next episode to see the group talk comfort foods, date nights, and all things inspirational. JUST EATS WITH CHEF JJ is a hot new cooking show where CLEO TV viewers get to hang out with Chef JJ Johnson. Noted comedian, actor and REACH Media Syndicated Radio host, DL Hughley is bringing his own brand of comedy and commentary to TV One with his new nighttime talk show THE DL HUGHLEY SHOW, premiering Monday, March 18 at 11/10C PM. The show will air four nights a week, Monday through Thursday. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qghvBK9FWg0 Artist, Amanda Lynn, Is making waves in the gospel industry with her fresh sound blending gospel music with the smooth rhythmic sounds of R&B. Signed to 3HP records, Amanda has been busy working with the likes of Fred Hammond, Michael Braxton (Toni's Brother) , Talein (former lead vocalist of Atlantic Starr), as well as many others. And Recently nominated in three categories, for VOGMA awards, she continues to spread her love for music and the lord to audiences around the globe. Currently, Amanda Lynn is working on her debut album, Journey- set to be released this spring, exhibiting the self exploration of overcoming obstacles, growing in the lord and the transformation into your purpose. This is best showcased in her hit single, Better, releasing during the Stellar Awards week in Las Vegas in March 2019. One of the things fans of “The Real” like about the hosts is that they really are “real.” One example of that happened the other day when Adrienne Houghton admitted that she’s eavesdropped on folks’ conversations. Well, not only did she admit doing it, but ID’d one very special person she did it to: her husband, musician Israel Houghton. Wayminute! She wasn’t through. She also gave up the deets on HOW she did it. And it was via one of those secrets that right in plain view for all of us. Adrienne: So, there’s something called ‘voice memo’ on your phone. And you literally can put it on voice memo, lock the phone, put it down, walk out the room, let you all talk about me, walk back in, play it back outside the room, listen to what you all said, walk in and be like, ‘so Tam, would you say that like sometimes I can talk a lot? Like, would you ever say that?’ And then you might be like, ‘of course I would say that! You do talk a lot’. Tamera: Yeah. In this short-form cooking show with a twist, NEW SOUL KITCHEN features hosts Chef Jernard Wells and Porsche Thomas serving up healthy and alternative takes on comfort food. Chef Jernard is known for his down home dishes with a healthy spin and Porsche is one of today's most sought after vegan cooks. On every episode, the culinary gurus reveal their unique, health conscious approaches to favorite comfort foods, offering something for everyone! From Vegan Lasagna and Mac and Cheese to holiday sides, you name it, and they serve it up. Tune into CLEO TV Saturday, March 16 at 12:30 p.m. ET/11:30C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3b677sy2UA&feature=youtu.be ; TV One's original, documentary series UNSUNG and UNCENSORED will air new episodes on Sunday, March 10. Kicking off with untold stories from R&B singer Adina Howard at 9 p.m. ET/8C. UNCENSORED follows at 10 p.m. ET/9C and gives unprecedented access to reality star Tami Roman. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3c9doyJMJ28&feature=youtu.be ; KEYONDRA LOCKETT PERFORM ON DR. JAMAL BRYANT'S ALL-NEW WORD NETWORK SHOW, "POWER TO THE PEOPLE....https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLdywh1ltBI&feature=youtu.be ; Entertainment One Nashville announced the addition of Grammy-nominated gospel music pioneer and living legend John P. Kee to its burgeoning roster in February 2019. Winning many accolades including a Billboard Music Award, a Soul Train Award and numerous Stellar Awards, Kee’s songwriting and vocals has been hailed by critics throughout his career. He now once again showcases those skills with his new single, “I Made It Out (feat. Zacardi Cortez),” available now. “I Made It Out” precedes a full-length album due later in 2019. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0iP6gnDs8VY&feature=youtu.be Six gospel artists will have the chance to become a gospel music star on a new reality program called “The Gospel.” The Gospel chronicles 10 days with eight episodes as contestants compete for a national management contract with T.D. Jakes’ Dexterity Sounds and Marquis Boone Music Group. The first of its kind for Gospel music, the winner of this Christian music competition will be announced with the opportunity to perform at the International Pastors & Leadership Conference in Tampa Bay on April 25. The show is Executive produced by T.D. Jakes and Marquis Boone and hosted by Darlene McCoy. The program will air beginning March 10 exclusively on the Bishop’s Village, T.D. Jakes’ online streaming platform with behind the scene videos, messages and content. Entertainment One Nashville, will have an advance screening of the new live visual album, “To Africa With Love,” by Todd Dulaney on Tuesday, March 12th. Join Todd Dulaney and Entertainment One Nashville for an exclusive viewing and listening session of Todd Dulaney’s new album, “To Africa With Love.” Todd Dulaney’s new single, “You’re Doing It All Again,” now. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EqKoEHDalg&feature=youtu.be DL Hughley will appears on "The Wendy Williams Show" to talk about TV One's "UNCENSORED" & "The DL Hughley Show" Friday, March 8, 2019. While many have dubbed R. Kelly’s interview with Gayle King all things kray-kray, his camp is reportedly pleased with their conversation that aired on Wednesday’s “CBS This Morning.” Jeff Glor began Wednesday’s “CBS Evening News” with word that King spoke to Kelly insiders after the interview aired “to check in to see how they were going.” “They said they were pleased with the interview,” she revealed. Yup,” King assured. “They thought it gave Robert a chance to tell his story and Robert is prepared to answer any question.”Kelly’s camp said they appreciated Gayle noting on “CBS This Morning” that she did not think herself in any danger when the singer became unhinged, though she was concerned he was going to walk out of the interview. CBS News will broadcast a one-hour primetime special showing even more of interview at 8 p.m. Friday. Seasoned recording artist, tunesmith and producer, Jason Clayborn, has returned home to Tyscot Records where he began his career over a dozen years ago as vocalist with the ground-breaking Gospel Hip Hop group, The Righteous Riders. Under the new agreement, Clayborn will bring a number of different solo and group projects to the label. Clayborn’s composition “Better” gave Hezekiah Walker an 18-week run at No. 1 in 2016, earned a Dove Award and was one of the Ten most played gospel songs of the year according to Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI). Clayborn has also composed songs for VaShawn Mitchell, Wes Morgan’s “Get Me Through,” Ricky Dillard’s “I Survived It” and Lisa Knowles-Smith’s current radio single, “Great Big God.” A Christian university in Oklahoma is renaming its main auditorium — known for a half-century as Hardeman Auditorium — amid concerns over a racist statement attributed to the late namesake, N.B. Hardeman. The president of Oklahoma Christian University, which is associated with Churches of Christ, recently revealed to students that the assembly hall’s new name will honor donors Benton and Paula Baugh. The Baughs are members of the Memorial Church of Christ in Houston and active proponents of racial unity efforts in Texas’ largest city. They recently gave Oklahoma Christian $1 million — just their latest donation after previous seven-figure support of the university’s Bible and engineering programs. Students greeted President John deSteiguer’s announcement of the newly renamed Baugh Auditorium — already dubbed the “Baughditorium” — with a standing ovation. Often called the gospel version of Earth, Wind and Fire, SENSERE is currently celebrating the release of their third independent full-length project, “God, Family, The Band." SENSERE presents the brand new visual for their inspirational soul anthem. SENSERE’s boxing gym themed visual serves as the perfect backdrop for the James Brown inspired song. Shot in the band’s hometown of Miami, FL, the video follows a young boxer training for the fight of his life. And despite adversity and hardships during the grueling training process, the young athlete wins the proverbial knockout in the final round! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOy2kseWzBY Multiple Stellar Award Winner, multiple Dove Award winner and GRAMMY nominee Anthony Brown and group therAPy announced details for ‘Second Wind,’ an upcoming live event Friday, May 3, 2019. More than just a concert, the anticipated dramatic live experience and show will serve as the backdrop for a new album, that will take place at First Baptist Church of Glenarden, Upper Marlboro, MD. Preferred seating tickets and general admission tickets go on sale Friday at AJBLIVE.com. Brown will also offer the AJBLIVE Super Fan Experience where fans will receive exclusive access to rehearsals, talent meet and greets, VIP seating at the live event, parking passes and more. Details can be found online at AJBLIVE.com and quantities are limited. Brown is expected to bring his unique dynamism and phenomenal live presentation to the stage for what is anticipated to be his most exciting recording to date. Unlike anything seen in previous recordings, Anthony Brown will present ‘Cirque du Soleil’ quality artistic entertainment with spectacular visuals, sets and surprises. Joining Anthony and group therAPy will be a host of special guests including Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Erica Campbell and Kelontae Galvin, with more to be announced. Brown and group therAPy will be recording their fourth album and it will be part of his continuing Key Of A Music partnership with Fair Trade Services, and Tyscot Music. Today, the NAACP announced that Anthony Anderson is set to return as host for the 50th NAACP Image Awards. Anderson is a two-time NAACP Image Awards Winner for his role on blackish, and will be hosting the show for the 6th consecutive year. Winners for the 50th NAACP Image Awards will be revealed during the two-hour LIVE TV special airing on TV One on Saturday, March 30, 2019 at 9pm/8c from the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. Along with s currently the star and Executive Producer of ABC's multi-award winning sitcom, blackish, he's a four-time NAACP Image Award Winner for Outstanding Comedy Series, Anderson is also set to star in the upcoming Netflix film Beats. The Impact Network, the only African American owned and operated Christian television network in the United States, will soon be available on Verizon Fios. The network features programming on urban ministries and gospel lifestyle entertainment. Verizon's dedication to diversity is evident, and we're proud of their ongoing commitment to the African-American community, underscored by the addition of The Impact Network to the Fios platform," said Bishop Wayne T. Jackson, CEO and President of the Impact Network." With programming that empowers the community and with additional career opportunities for minorities in the cable television industry." The small community of Beauregard is facing the grief of at least 23 deaths, including children, after a tornado struck the southeastern Alabama community Sunday afternoon (March 3). Search efforts for about a dozen people who had not been accounted for are continuing amid the debris. Providence Baptist Church in Beauregard is serving as a Red Cross shelter and reunification point for families in the community. Three Alabama DR teams are on site, with others on standby. One DR team is assisting in search and rescue, another is tarping roofs and the third is working with chainsaws to clear debris. Vonnie Lopez already has a commanding presence in Gospel music circles, and now she has a global spotlight as she appears on the James Corden hosted CBS show The World’s Best. Appearing on a live talent competition show was the farthest thing from Lopez’s mind, but when a video of her singing “Oh How I Love Jesus” went viral on social media – producers of The World’s Best contacted her and asked her to join the show. Lopez sang "My Tribute" by Andraé Crouch for her first appearance, wowing judges including mega-star Faith Hill, who - visibly moved - said “this is what it feels like to have the Holy Spirit in the place! This is the voice we need in the world right now.” The World’s Best will air a second appearance from Vonnie Lopez in its “Battle Round” segment this Wednesday, March 6th, at 9 p.m. EST. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c0x0nzZhEYM&app=desktop Looking for a great way to start your day? Take a listen to the new single by The Jones Sisters, entitled,"You Are God." This song will touch the lives of listeners, old and young! "You Are God." demonstrates a seasoned message with a youthful vibe! It is considered a testament of the many wonders of God and His splendor! https://soundcloud.com/1goodknight/you-are-god?utm_source=The+Jones+Sisters&utm_campaign=Day+Out+Against+Crime&utm_medium=email One of the most compelling personal histories of missionaries is that of Waynesboro native William Henry Sheppard Jr., the son of a Staunton barber who was the first black American missionary to the African Congo. Born in March, 1865 in a rented home near the Waynesboro train station, Sheppard was a free black because his mother, Sarah Frances Martin Sheppard, had also been born free in Nelson County. “All children shall be bond or free,” stated Virginia’s code of 1705, “according to the condition of their mother.” The Sheppards were devout Presbyterians, and his father, William Sr., was sexton at the original all-white Presbyterian Church in Waynesboro under Rev. William T. Richardson. After graduating from Hampton Institute in 1883, Sheppard enrolled in the Presbyterian Tuscaloosa Theological Institute (now Stillman College) in Alabama. Completing his studies in 1886, he was ordained a Presbyterian minister and met schoolteacher Lucy Gantt, whom he married a few years later. Sheppard assumed Pastoral duties at Zion Presbyterian Church in Atlanta, but his true dream was to go to Africa as a missionary. While possessed of endless energy and raw physical courage, his requests were still denied simply due to his race. Later, however, some within the white Presbyterian foreign missions hierarchy argued that blacks were uniquely suited to be African missionaries, so in a compromise, they ruled that Sheppard – or any other black person – could go to Africa as a missionary but only with white supervision. Finally, in 1890, a white minister named Samuel Lapsley volunteered to take Sheppard to create Presbyterian missions in the Congo. Multiple GRAMMY®, Stellar, and Dove Award-winning international Gospel icon Donnie McClurkinreleases a new single “Not Yet.” Available now at all digital music providers and newly released to Gospel radio, the new single is being released by McClurkin’s label CamDon Music, in partnership with RCA Inspiration. “Not Yet” serves as the first single from the Gospel legend’s forthcoming eighth solo album. In addition to releasing a full-length album this year, McClurkin continues his ministry over the airwaves and in the pulpit. As the syndicated radio host of The Donnie McClurkin Show and senior pastor of his church, Perfecting Faith Church in New York, McClurkin remains a voice of influence in global ministry. The prolific chart-topper is one of the best-selling Gospel recording artists worldwide with over 10 million albums sold and is at the helm of moving hits such as “I Need You,” “Stand”, “We Fall Down” and “I Call You Faithful.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=3&v=ZcJOvcC40Ac Entertainment One Nashville welcomes its newest signee: BET & Sunday Best alum, the critically acclaimed singer, songwriter and model, Latice Crawford. The New York native and Stellar Award nominated singer, stole the hearts of believers on BET’s singing competition Sunday Best, using her three-octave, contralto vocal range, finishing third on the second season. Her self-titled debut album reached two on the Top Gospel Albums chart. Her second album, “Diary of a Church Girl,” also was a success on the Top Gospel Albums chart as well. Many may already know the fabulous, runway and editorial model, but Crawford also is a contributor to Essence and Huffington Post, writing on a range of topics to include mental wellness, parenting, race relations, and self-care. Crawford states, “Joining the Entertainment One roster feels like you just went to the family reunion and saw all of your long-lost relatives. There’s a warmth there that gives an artist comfort in their own creativity and security in their vision. I am excited that it's my new home. Premiere music label Motown Gospel announces its newest artist signee—husband and wife duo Jerard & Jovaun. The powerhouse singers bring their online popularity to a new digital EP. Currently worship leaders at the multi-cultural Bethesda Church (Ft. Worth, TX), Jerard & Jovaun first made names for themselves as go-to background and session singers for over two decades, working with industry heavyweights like BeBe and CeCe Winans, Natalie Grant, Donnie McClurkin, Michael W. Smith and Yolanda Adams. Most recently, Jerard & Jovaun have steadily built an online following with their stand-out performance videos of worship songs and hymns. Their cover of “What A Beautiful Name,” has become a viral sensation garnering over 1.66 million views. Jerard & Jovaun’s debut EP WHAT A BEAUTIFUL NAME offers renditions of songs from their video series including the EP’s title track, Hillsong’s hit worship song “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail),” and popular anthem “Great Are You Lord.” The 5-track WHAT A BEAUTIFUL NAME EP will be available on all digital platforms on Friday, March 15. After singing and traveling with John P. Kee and New Life for four years, Lowell was ready to embark on new beginnings and co-founded the contemporary gospel group, Men of Standard, in 1996. With a string of hits from Men of Standard, the group was able to capture Stellar Awards and several gospel nominations. Lowell Pye and DarkChild have created something special! "PATIENTLY PRAISING"featuring Lowell Pye is the 4th radio single from Fred Jerkins’ “A PROJECT OF HEALING.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=po_44oy_TSs&feature=youtu.be TV One’s upcoming episode of “UNCENSORED” featuring Fantasia Fantasia Remembers The Time She Walked Away From The Church.......https://youtu.be/oFsh4eY072E Tyese Gibson has been tapped to portray Teddy Pendergrass in an upcoming biopic, Warner Bros. acquired the life rights of the late singer, who rose to fame in the early 1970s as the lead singer of Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes before he went on to achieve success as a solo artist. A near-fatal car crash in 1982 left him paralyzed from the chest down but that didn’t stop the singer from continuing to perform for two decades until announcing his retirement in 2007. He also established the ?Teddy Pendergrass? Alliance to help those with spinal cord injuries prior to his death in 2010. FRESH START WORSHIP PERFORMED ON DR. JAMAL BRYANT'S ALL-NEW WORD NETWORK SHOW, "POWER TO THE PEOPLE" SATURDAY MARCH 2, 2019. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MX-O1GbBQO0&feature=youtu.be Kirk Franklin is set to push out the 2nd Annual Exodus Music & Arts Festival. The festival is slated to go down May 26, will special guests Fred Hammond, The Clark Sisters, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Kelontae Gavin, VaShawn Mitchell, and Travis Greene. In Partnership with Live Nation Urban, the gospel music festival happens at the Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory in Irving, Texas. Playwright Dennis Williams returns to the DMV with one of his most creative productions yet featuring R&B Singer Keke Wyatt. The highly anticipated I’ve Cried the Blues, The Musical Story of a Lifetime, is scheduled to play one-night only Saturday, June 8, 2019 at The Warner Theatre, Washington, DC. Produced by Williams’ company Legendary Studio Shows (LSS) Universal, the musical comes a year following the success of his 4-time sold out hit stage play, Love & Therapy Gone Wrong. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5LVCuSGSRU&feature=youtu.be A Christian anti-hunger group has released a devotional guide to mark the 400th anniversary of the arrival of enslaved Africans in Jamestown, Va. “Lament and Hope: A Pan-African Devotional Guide” was produced by Bread for the World and was dedicated at a prayer service at a Washington church Thursday (Feb. 28), the last day of Black History Month. The free guide addresses past and current issues of unequal access to land, housing and education. It begins with verses from the Bible’s Book of Lamentations that speak of homelessness and affliction and conclude with a proclamation of the “steadfast love of the Lord.” TV One will air the inaugural URBAN ONE HONORS on Thursday, February 28 8 p.m. ET/7C, immediately followed by an encore presentation at 10 p.m. ET/9C. The stellar show, hosted by comedian DL Hughley, will honor Jermaine Dupri, April Ryan, Brandy, Tom Joyner, Marvin Sapp, DJ Khaled, June Ambrose, Doc Walker, Shaun King, Benny Pough, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, Jade Novah, Dr. Nadia Lopez, Tracy Martin, Sybrina Fulton and Rotimi. The awards show was taped live at The Anthem Theater in Washington, DC on December 9, 2018. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKSSJi3sPyw&feature=youtu.be Jekalyn Carr, internationally acclaimed and award-winning artist/author/actress/speaker/entrepreneur has announced plans for her second annual "You Will Win Conference." The event will go down June 21 - 22, 2019 in Orlando, FL. The announcement comes upon the heels of an extremely successful season for Carr – winning a GMA Dove Award, nominated for 2 GRAMMY Awards and 5 Stellar Awards. The conference is a natural extension of Carr's ministry, existing to embolden and inspire the people of God to live their most abundant life. After many years of setting the standard for church worship music, Bishop Paul S. Morton & The Full Gospel Ministry Of Worship have once again gifted us with a smashing new song, that is sure to be a mainstay in the life of the church. The new single "RELEASE THE RAIN" is a prophetic petition for more of God's Glory, Power and Presence. It is written and performed by Christopher House, and also joined vocally by Eugene Brown accompanied by an amazing and powerful Full Gospel praise team, choir and band. This powerful song has been touched by some of Gospel music's best, namely JJ Hairston and Vaughn Phoenix (Producers) and also Executive Produced by VaShawn Mitchell. https://spaces.hightail.com/space/JmBLYagZqb/files/fi-0b1cb7a6-9de7-4bc0-85d8-6f9bec80514c/fv-220446d1-5870-4d21-b119-514b466ec984/Release%20The%20Rain%20-%20RADIO%20EDIT%20320.mp3 Isabel Davis dropped a new single "Wide As The Sky" and in 4 short weeks has Climbed on Billboard's "New & Active" Charts!! Checkout friend of the Gospel Spotlight Isabel Davis......https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5i4QL9ZpFJI Veteran Gospel Artist Dr. Earnest Pugh can now add the title of Radio Host to his biography. Dr. Pugh recently launched his new radio show and podcast “On The Couch with Dr. Pugh at The Worship Leaders Lounge". His informative and impactful show can be heard each week on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Podbean, Stitcher, Google Play andTune In. Dr. Pugh has served in the capacity as Worship Pastor and Leader for over three decades. With a Master of Divinity and Doctorate of Ministry from the Howard University School of Divinity, and an honorary Ph.D. in Theology from The Institute of Teaching God’s Word (Rockdale, Texas), Pugh brings a wealth of knowledge to his listeners and a strong desire to build up Worship leaders. With the help of the dedicated MJ 93-90 Foundation team, NFL star and philanthropist, Michael D Johnson executed a very successful and inspiring Youth Empowerment Summit, in Selma, AL the 1st week of February 2019. The exciting event featured panels focused on social justice, self-esteem, money management and college preparatory. To top it off, ambitious high school students participated in a Shark Tank-style competition with prizes totaling $10,000! The 2-day event impacted the lives of more than 400 Selma area high school seniors. Black Writer’s Weekend started in 2008 as an award show called the AAMBC Awards and has morphed into three-days of panels, workshops, author signings, a celebratory book bash, movie screenings and a formal awards gala positioned as the highlight of the weekend. With approximately 1500 attendees and growing, it has become the nation’s only and largest gathering for African American literary creatives and filmmakers. Hosting popular-demand events such as Cre8tiveCon, Lit Crawl, the Urban Book Bash and much more, this year’s Black Writer’s Weekend is set for June 7 to June 9, 2019, in Atlanta, GA. U.S. Rep. James Clyburn may be one of the most influential voices in Washington, but his first career was as a school teacher and he delivered a little-known lesson in history Sunday during his latest visit to Burlington County. Speaking at the Tabernacle Baptist Church for a Black History celebration organized by U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez, Clyburn, the House Majority Whip and renown Civil Rights activist, recounted the tale of Lewis Latimer, the black engineer from Massachusetts who invented the carbon filament that allowed Thomas Edison’s light bulb to remain lit for longer than just a few days. “Thomas Edison invented the light bulb, but he couldn’t get it to stay on,” Clyburn said, noting that the New Jersey inventor needed to partner with Latimer and use the latter’s filament to make the bulb efficient and usable. The Broadway bound production of six-times Grammy winner BeBe Winans autobiography "Born For This," releases video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZRuTW_8pww Spike Lee won his first ever Oscar Sunday night for in the Best Adapted Screenplay category for his work on “BlacKkKlannsman” and took the stage in a Prince-inspired outfit with gold Jordans. But what went down when he lost the best picture category has folks talking across social media. AP reporter Andrew Dalton noted on Twitter that Lee “was visibly angry when “Green Book” was announced as the winner of best picture at the Oscars, waving his arms in disgust and appearing to try to storm out of the Dolby Theatre before he was stopped at the doors. He returned to his seat when the speeches were over.” The 2019 Oscars are in the books and special congrats to Spike Lee who finally got his first Oscar win – after 33 years in the business – for Best Adapted Screenplay for “BlacKkKlansman.” For the second year in a row Mahershala Ali took home the Best Supporting Actor award. Last year he won it for “Moonlight.” This year it was for his role in “Green Book.” Also, Regina King was named Best Supporting Actress” for playing Sharon Rivers in “If Beale Street Could Talk.” Lastly, we need to give props to “Black Panther” which won 3 awards: Best Original Score, Best Costume Design and Best Production Design. Looks like 45 got his feeling hurt because of comments made by Spike Lee who he claimed made a “racist hit” against him in the director’s Oscar award speech Sunday night. “Be nice if Spike Lee could read his notes, or better yet not have to use notes at all, when doing his racist hit on your President, who has done more for African Americans (Criminal Justice Reform, Lowest Unemployment numbers in History, Tax Cuts,etc.) than almost any other Pres!,” Trump tweeted on Monday morning. Jonathan Nelson returns with a fresh new single “Jesus, I Love You.” Nelson emphasizes that because of Jesus’ abundant love for His people, in return they should echo that same love back to Him. This new offering definitely emphasizes vertical worship and focus on giving Jesus the love and praise He deserves. It’s a bonafide church standard that will be picked up by churches across the nation. https://www.dropbox.com/s/4ug9lw3h7bt1c26/Jesus%20I%20Love%20You%20RADIO%20EDIT.wav?dl=0 TV One hosted an exclusive screening of its new original true crime film, LOVED TO DEATH at the 2019 Pan African Film Festival (PAFF) for journalists, influencers and fans. Held at the Cinemark 15 Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Theater in Los Angeles, audiences were also treated to a Q & A with film director Lee Davis and cast members MC Lyte, McKinley Freeman, Tobias Truvillion and Chrystee Pharris, moderated by Pat Prescott from 94.7 The Wave. LOVED TO DEATH premieres Summer 2019 on TV One. Integrity Music welcomes worship leader, pastor, author and recording artist William McDowell and announces the forthcoming release of a new, live album from the GRAMMY Award nominee. McDowell, who serves as pastor of Orlando, Florida’s Deeper Fellowship Church, previously released five critically-acclaimed albums – "As We Worship," "Arise," "Withholding Nothing," "Sounds Of Revival" and "Sounds Of Revival: Part 2" – winning Dove and Stellar Awards and earning a GRAMMY nomination for his work. McDowell also has made numerous guest appearances on albums from artists representing a variety of music styles. His ability to cross generational, denominational, cultural and genre differences is a reflection of his heart for people and his foundational ministry training. McDowell will record his new album on May 10 at Redemption To The Nations Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight! Hear William McDowell In His Own Words.....https://www.gospel-spotlight.com/william_mcdowell_intvw.htm The original Party with a Purpose® is setting sail on an epic 20th Voyage! The 2019 Tom Joyner Foundation Fantastic Voyage® presented by Denny’s will sail from Miami April 7-14 on the Carnival Magic and make stops in the Caribbean’s Amber Cove, San Juan and St. Thomas. Created as a fundraiser to support students in school at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, this year’s cruise will feature entertainment favorites, informative seminars, morning inspiration, fitness classes, notable celebrities and popular theme nights. Music performers including Janet Jackson, Maxwell, Charlie Wilson, Fantasia, KEM, WAR, Sheila E., Chrisette Michele, Biz Markie, MC Lyte, Smokie Norful, Pastor Shirley Caesar, Brian Courtney Wilson, Midnight Star, S.O.S. Band, Oaktown 357, Mase, Black Sheep, Lady of Rage and more. The Rainbow PUSH Coalition and Citizenship Education Fund is hosting its 22nd Annual Wall Street Project Economic Summit, February 20 - 22, 2019 at The Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel, 811 7th Ave., 3rd Floor in New York City. This year's theme is "400 Years Later: Closing the Wealth Gap, Expanding Opportunity." The Summit feature sessions on closing the racial wealth gap, advancing consumer protection, the state of telecom and evolution of digital currencies, the tech industry's expanding wealth opportunities, supplier diversity opportunities, diversity and inclusion on corporate boards and in C-suites, investing in Africa and globally, the State of Black America, fireside chats with Larry J. Merlo, President and CEO, CVS Health and Toni Townes Whitley, Corporate VP of Industry, Microsoft. The Summit brings entrepreneurs, corporate executives and the nation's leading policymakers together to increase business and employment opportunities for African Americans, women, and all people of color. Jussie Smollett was eviscerated after being arrested on Thursday by furious Chicago police bosses who alleged that he mailed himself a threatening letter then staged a hoax attack because he was unhappy with his Empire salary. At an extraordinary press conference, Chicago Police Department Chief Superintendent Eddie T. Johnson abhorred him as a ‘troubled young man’ who has ‘taken advantage of the pain and anger of racism to further his career’ by allegedly lying that he was attacked by racist and homophobic assailants on January 29. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/embed/video/1867868.html# Chicago Cubs prospect Chris Singleton (22) exchanged vows with his High School Sweetheart, Mariana De Andrade (21) in a beautiful ceremony in Charleston, SC during the broadcast of Lifetime’s My Great Big Live Wedding hosted by David Tutera. After learning of the couple’s heart-wrenching experiences Tutera was on a mission to make their special day a memorable one. Chris’ mother (Sharonda Coleman-Singleton) was one of the nine lives taken at the Emmanuel AME Church massacre during Bible Study in 2016 and two years later unexpectedly his father passed away. The groom and his late mother were big fans of gospel singer, CeCe Winans. Winans sang “Blessed Assurance” before the exchanging of vows as well as the up-tempo, “Dancing in the Spirit” to kick off the reception. The bride’s exquisite dress was designed by David Tutera and named “Mariana” after the bride. While family and friends looked on it was hard to find a dry eye anywhere. The Singletons received a special toast by another special guest, Carl Edward Jr., from Chicago Cubs World Series Champions. It's no secret that Le'Andria Johnson (Season 3 Winner of BET's Sunday Best) has had her share of ups and downs. She is transparent about everything and uses what she's been through to encourage others to help get them on Track! While in Philadelphia PA on Sunday February 17th, Le'Andria took part in a Family and Friends Day at Holy Ghost Headquarters Revival Center at the Met where Apostle Mark Hatcher, Sr. is the Pastor. The church had invited a Women's Rehabilitation Center to the church where Numerous women were in attendance that are in the process of overcoming substance abuse and alcoholism. Johnson confessed to the audience that she was wearing the device used to monitor many first-time and nonviolent offenders as she discussed her struggle with alcohol. During her set, she shared with the congregation about the struggle she had with Alcohol. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=biT8isHU-8A The Godfather of Gospel Jazz continues to climb up the charts with his newest album RISE. The album remains steady on the Billboard Top Gospel Album Sales chart and his single "Rise" takes the #1 spot this week on the Billboard Smooth Jazz National Airplay Chart. "Rise", featuring Marion Meadows on saxophone, is Tankard's remake of the Herb Alpert classic hit that, after 40 years, still remains a favorite among Jazz musicians and fans. Herb Alpert received a GrammyAward for Best Pop Instrumental Performance in 1979 for "Rise". Billboard #1 independent recording artist, 2018 ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Award winner and 2019 two-time Stellar Award nominee Bryan Popin and his imprint Little Boy Wonder Music has secured a joint business venture with Fred Jerkins’ DarkChild Gospel. Under the terms of the JV deal, DarkChild Gospel will help to oversee Artist Development and Relations. Jerkin’s newly formed We Break Records Promotion and Consulting will function to serve all radio promotion needs for Bryan Popin and Little Boy Wonder Music. Hammond, Louisiana celebrated singer-songwriter and new solo artist Titus Showers, the former lead singer of two-time Stellar Award nominated sibling group, Showers, has impacted Gospel radio with his debut radio single and worship anthem “In His Name.” The digital single track set to release on all digital and streaming platforms along with a live music video premiere, Friday, March 15, 2019. “In His Name” is poised to reach people from all walks of life including the un-churched and compelling those who are not deemed “believers” to want to know more about the Christian faith. Noted Singer, Songwriter, Worship Leader and Pastor Desmond Pringle sets the stage for a live recording taking place on Saturday, Febraury 23rd. For his 7th solo project, Pringle heads to Christian Outreach of the Piedmont in Statesville, NC. Backed by a 100 voice choir, Pringle enlists the services of the always capable Grammy Award winning producer Cedric Thompson for production expertise. Pringle is marking a milestone of 20 years as a recording artist and 40 years in music ministry. Billboard Music Award winning and GRAMMY® Award nominated choir, J.J. Hairston & Youthful Praise, will drop their soulful, new radio and digital single, "Miracle Worker," February 22nd. It will release in both audio and video configurations on all digital outlets. "Miracle Worker," is the first radio single off of the forthcoming JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise album set to release in the summer of 2019. This marks the first release through Hairston's Jamestown recording label and their new distribution deal with The Orchard, a Sony Music company. The album was recorded in two sessions, one in Abuja, Nigeria at COZA Church and the second half was recorded at Hairston's home church City of Praise in Landover, MD. A stage play inspired by the project is being written and directed by award winning Actress and Director Kim Fields. “A Project of Healing’s,” first single titled " We Won" featuring Jonathan Nelson was released in 2017 and became an instant fan favorite. “Victory” featuring Last Call is #1 this week on the Billboard Gospel Indicator Chart for the 12th consecutive week, , #4 on the Billboard National Gospel Airplay Chartand #5 on the Mediabase Gospel Chart. The song racked up an 55.1K new streams last week with over837, 000 streams to date! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJ92QblEqOU BMI Award Winning Songwriter and Producer Derrick Starks realizes one of his dreams as he joins the Atlanta Hawks on the basketball court for Faith and Family night on Friday, February 22nd as they play the Detroit Pistons. Starks will lead the music ministry of the Berean Christian Church Choir, pastored by Reverend Kerwin Lee in a mini-concert following the game. TV One has announced that production is underway in Atlanta for its new original film THE BOBBY DEBARGE STORY, slated to premiere in June, 2019. The film's stars include Roshon Fegan (Shake It Up, Greenleaf) in the lead role as Bobby DeBarge, Tyra Ferrell (Boyz InThe Hood, White Men Can't Jump) as Etterlene DeBarge and Adrian Marcel as James DeBarge. Big Boi (Outkast) portrays legendary music mogul Berry Gordy, while Lloyd appears as Switch member Gregory Williams. The movie explores the tumultuous life of the former lead singer of the 70's R&B/Funk Band Switch, also the eldest sibling of the world-famous pop group DeBarge. Despite his success in music, the iconic falsetto found his life in peril as he struggled with fame and fortune while coping with the memories of his dysfunctional childhood. Double XXposure Media Relations is proud to introduce the Liberian born vocalist, FATi, to the American music industry and general public. Known for her distinctive vocal styling, the exotic beauty recently released her debut album, “L.O.V.E.,” produced by Ghanaian-based Many Music Records, in December 2018. The album’s title single, “Love,” immediately soared to the top of music charts in Ghana, where she currently resides, and became popular in night clubs across Ghana’s capital, Accra. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gl1uPTH3hAM Get ready for a big shake up on “America’s Got Talent” next season as Mel B and Heidi Klum have both dropped from the judging panel. The Spice Girl has been a judge on the show for the last six seasons but there have long been whispers that she wouldn’t be invited back for the 14th season because her headline-making personal problems and marital issues pose as huge distractions. Reports have it that their chairs will be filled by dancer Julianne Hough and actress Gabrielle Union who will join regulars Simon Cowell and Howie Mandel. TV One has announced Actor and REACH Media syndicated radio personality D.L. Hughley will have a new primetime talk show, THE D.L. HUGHLEY SHOW, set to premiere in March, featuring stories relevant to a rapidly evolving African American community. World-renowned singer and songwriter Regina Belle makes a welcome return to recording with a timely new single titled "Freedom" featuring Iyanla Vanzant. The tune offers inspirational commentary on the political and moral climate found currently at home and abroad. Recorded with a live band, a full choir, and live spoken-word segments by lifestyle guru Vanzant, and Bishop Kenneth W. Paramore of Christ Centered Church in Akron, Ohio. Belle premiered "Freedom" on TV One's "Sister Circle," the single is available on iTunes, Amazon and Google Play and other digital retailers everywhere. Grammy® Award-Winning Recording Artist Tamela Mann dropped the music video for “Mason Jar” from her latest album Us Against the World: The Love Project with husband, NAACP Image Award-Winning Actor and Comedian David Mann. “Mason Jar” showcases Tamela’s tender vocals paying tribute to her grandmother, mother and love of her life, David. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZMi7n1O5gZ8&list=PLp1A86lu8IJMTvdo33Bx1Otpt90vpRnNz&index=2&t=0s New from John Legend "PREACH" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0r1AJMK79g Prolific singer-songwriter and producer VaShawn Mitchell offers new song “God Can Do Anything,” available now on all digital platforms including the official music video on Vevo. Mitchell penned the first single, “God Can Do Anything” which leads the way to the release of his upcoming full project ELEMENTS. The new ballad intensifies with a driving chorus that reminds listeners of the basic tenets of our faith — hope and belief. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGdh73NFCnY Chart-topper Jason Nelson releases the new single “In The Room,” going out to Gospel radio. The Stellar Award-winning vocalist, songwriter and producer also debuts a new video for “In The Room” on his VEVO channel, delivering an intimate live performance. Filmed at the church where he pastors, The Tabernacle at Greater Bethlehem Temple in Maryland, the video creates a warm worship atmosphere led by Nelson’s dynamic voice. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJGTl-vCM3M Entertainment One Nashville adds Grammy-nominated gospel music pioneer and living legend John P. Kee to its roster. Winning many accolades including a Billboard Music Award, a Soul Train Award and numerous Stellar Awards, Kee’s songwriting and vocals has been hailed by critics throughout his career. He now once again showcases those skills with his new single, “I Made It Out (feat. Zacardi Cortez),” available for pre-order now. “I Made It Out” precedes a full-length album due later in 2019. Multiple award-winner, singer-songwriter Tasha Cobbs Leonard earns her 2nd NAACP Image Award nomination for her 2018 album“Heart.Passion.Pursuit.: Live At Passion City.” The phenomenal live album, which offered outstanding live performances of Cobbs Leonard’s popular songs, debuted at number 1 and continues to maintain a top position. On the third installment of the new CBS talent competition The Worlds Best produced by Mark Burnett, Vonnie Lopez shared her powerful testimony of how God gave her a gift of song and then took to the stage to sing the Andraé Crouch classic, My Tribute (To God Be The Glory). Vonnie’s rendition brought show host James Corden and judge Faith Hill to tears as fellow judge RuPaul acknowledged the anointing that is heard and felt when Vonnie sings. Vonnie moves into head to head competition next week on The World’s Best. Ben Tankard is a multiple Grammy®, Dove and Soul Train Award nominee with Gold and Platinum selling Gospel and Jazz albums. He has earned 15 Stellar Gospel Awards and inducted into the Stellar Awards Honors Hall of Fame in 2018. His single “Rise” hit #2 this week on the Smooth Jazz National Airplay Chart. Ben’s remake of Herb Alpert’s iconic jazz hit features Marion Meadows on sax and is the first single from his RISE album which peaked at #13 on the Top Gospel Albums Chart. RISE, released on his Ben-Jamin Universal Musicrecord label, features collaborations with Paul Jackson, Jr. on "More Rain", and with Kirk Whalumon "It's Working". https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJWf77HN1cY&feature=youtu.be Entertainment One Nashville celebrates a 50th NAACP Image Award nomination for Jonathan McReynolds, whose Billboard #1 album “Make Room” received a nomination for “Outstanding Gospel Album.” The winners will be revealed during the Two-Hour LIVE TV special airing on TV One on Saturday, March 30, 2019. Dove Award-winning, GRAMMY® and Stellar award-nominated gospel artist Jonathan McReynolds’ current album “Make Room” debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Current Gospel Albums Chart and #2 on Top Christian/Gospel Albums. It broke into the mainstream charts at #27 on Top Current Albums and #97 on the Hot 200. The live LP is his third full album and the fourth overall release for the 28-year-old musician. RCA Inspiration celebrates two nominations for the 2019 50TH NAACP Image Awards®, with Koryn Hawthorne garnering recording nods for Outstanding New Artist, and Outstanding Gospel Album (Traditional or Contemporary) for her #1 debut Unstoppable. Additionally, multiple NAACP Image Award-winning Kirk Franklin garners a nod for his featured performance with Tori Kelly on her hit song “Never Alone,” which is nominated for Outstanding Song-Traditional, fresh off a GRAMMY® win this week. Kirk Franklin and Koryn Hawthorne are also continuing to heat up the charts with Franklin’s newest single “Love Theory” and Hawthorne’s newest single “Unstoppable” (feat. Lecrae). The 50TH NAACP Image Awards® will air live from Los Angeles on Saturday, March 30, 2019 on TV ONE at 9 pm/8c. Check out the animated visual for “He Heard My Cry” (feat. Sir the Baptist and Arnetta Murrill-Crooms), from GRAMMY®-winning Gospel Icon Donald Lawrence. Filled with a rich color palette and striking artwork, the lyric video brings alive the stylistic flourishes that Lawrence is known for in his music. Donald Lawrence Presents The Tri-City Singers: “He Heard My Cry,” marks the second single released from the forthcoming celebratory album, Goshen. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qc7ayHxaxRA Happy Birthday to Lamar Campbell. His song "More Than Anything," a great song, it's a fan favorite and sung in Sunday service all the time. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight! Hear Lamar Campbell In His Own Words.....https://www.gospel-spotlight.com/lamar_campbell.htm It's on it's way, the New John Legend "Preach" Coming this Friday 2/15/19! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=moVGyub7-wA Yolanda Adams and Titus O’Neil are the subjects of romantic speculation. Folks are all up in the world renown gospel superstar and WWE wrestling star’s personal “bidniss.” ?? Adams and O’Neil (real name: Thaddeus Michael Bullard, Sr.) have been looking downright chummy as of late. The situation between them has apparently been growing since last Summer, with sporadic public appearances and a few scattered social media snaps. In fact, this past weekend, both Adams and O’Neil were all coupled up at this year’s Grammy Awards in LA, along with Adams’ daughter Taylor. O’Neil was also on hand backstage to congratulate Yolanda after she, Fantasia and Andra Day paid tribute to Aretha Franklin. Responding not so favorably to Tori’ Kelly's win was Gospel Singer Smokie Norful. On his Instagram page he wrote, “No…no disrespect to Tori or Kirk (who is my friend and brutha and created an excellent cd) but THESE are the true winners in the GOSPEL category for the Grammys. (referencing Jekalyn Carr, The Walls Group, Todd Dulaney, Koryn Hawthorne, Jonathan McReynolds and Brian Courtney Wilson.) Heavy on GOSPEL. Congratulations to each of you. All of your music has blessed and carried me personally. I pray your ministry is never reduced to the size of a statue –your anointing is HUGE. I want to publicly acknowledge the sacrifices, work, prayer, scriptural preparation, and true ministry you offer the world. You stand on the legacy of many who have remained faithful and labored in the gospel. You are worth of double honor. ALL the GOSPEL artists. I love you. I appreciate you. God is pleased. And who knows, maybe next year they’ll give ME a Grammy for POP music.” Zak Williams & 1Akord a Philadelphia based choir of individuals from various areas and denominations united together to uplift the word of God through song. Founder and front-man Zak Williams created the group in 2003. He also led the group to win two Rhythm Of Gospel Awards for Contemporary Choir of The Year and Community Choir Of The Year. As an independent artist, Zak & 1Akord have two albums under their belt – THE DECLARATION: LIVE FROM PHILLY, (2006), THINGS ARE GONNA GET BETTER (2010), and 3 singles – “Go Tell It” (2015), “Wonderful Jesus” (2015), and “He’s All I Need” featuring Bishop Bruce V. Parham(2017). Zak and his singers have now found a record label home and are preparing for a new single release. Garland “Miche” Waller, Vice President of Enon Music Group (EMG) announces the signing of Zak Williams and 1Akord to their rapidly growing record label in Philadelphia. Universally hailed as the Queen of Soul, the late Aretha Franklin is one of music’s most beloved icons. In celebration of Franklin’s timeless, brilliant legacy, Geffen/UMe has restored her earliest recordings, collectively known as the album Songs Of Faith: Aretha Gospel, for worldwide black vinyl LP, limited edition white vinyl LP, and digital reissue on March 22, just ahead of her 77th birthday on March 25. Recorded live in 1956 at Detroit’s New Bethel Baptist Church when Franklin was just 14 years old, the album showcases her prodigiously powerful, other-worldly renditions of gospel standards. This newly restored and remastered edition of Songs Of Faith: Aretha Gospel returns the album to vinyl for the first time in decades, with striking new cover art, a new essay by Aretha Franklin biographer David Ritz, and a detailed history of the tracks’ various releases. In 1956, when the album’s tracks were recorded at New Bethel Baptist Church, Aretha Franklin was a 14-year-old gospel singing sensation. She performed, accompanying herself on piano, as the opening act for her celebrated father, Rev. C. L. Franklin, whose recorded sermons were million-sellers. Aretha’s performances were first issued as singles in the 1950s, followed by LP releases by Chess/Checker. Congratulations PJ Morton on winning a GRAMMY!!! His latest song is "Do You Believe" featuring Yolanda Adams. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight. Hear P>J> Morton IN His Own Words......http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/pj_morton_intvw.htm Lifetime previously released “Harry & Meghan: A Royal Romance” starring Murray Fraser as Prince Harry and Parisa Fitz-Henley as Meghan Markle. The film followed their romance from the moment they met through the eventual engagement. See the first movie’s actors in character via the picture below.mPrince Harry and the Duchess of Sussex wed on May 19, 2018. Meanwhile, Kensington Palace recently announced that Meghan Markle and Prince Harry will be visiting Morocco for two days at the end of February, “at the request of Her Majesty’s Government.” According to reports, this will be the first major international visit since the Duke and Duchess of Sussex did a tour of Australia, New Zealand, Tonga, and Fiji. Congrats to the SOWETO GOSPEL CHOIR For Scoring Third Grammy Win Last Night at the 61st Grammy Awards! Soweto Gospel Choir's FREEDOM won Best World Music Album. CD Honors Nelson Mandela's Centennial Motown Gospel's Tori Kelly garnered two Grammy wins for Best Gospel Album “Hiding Place” and Best Gospel Performance “Never Alone." “Kind God,” the latest single from award-winning Gospel superstar Marvin Sapp. Sapp’s much-beloved voice delivers an impeccable performance on “Kind God,” a soaring ballad reflecting on God’s plans and love over our lives, praising His sacrifice and enduring patience. Written by Kirk Franklin, “Kind God” is featured on Marvin Sapp’s chart-topping album Close. Sapp has also launched a recording contest, with the chance to record a duet together. Hosting a three-day event in Grand Rapids in March, registration is open now, and ending on February 22. Further details at:https://www.marvinsapp-popupshop.com/record. CURLS Beauty Brands CEO & Founder Mahisha Dellinger and Sprinkle of Jesus Founder Dana Chanel share their personal stories in the premiere episode of the groundbreaking profile series CLEO SPEAKS that aired Saturday, February 9 at 9 a.m. ET. Rapper/Activist David Banner and comedian Glory Mora joined culinary star Chef JJ on the next episode of CLEO TV's sizzling new series JUST EATS WITH CHEF JJ this Saturday, February 9 at 12 p.m. ET. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtK3Cqljd3I&feature=youtu.be Check out Suya Soul Music by TolumiDE 8pm Friday Feb 22nd with Intersections Festival 2019! Washington, DC. Also, Starting Sunday February 10th, Tune in to facebook.com/TolumiDEonline or youtube.com/TolumiDE for TolumiDE LIVE Streaming Listening Sessions on Social Media on Sundays at 3pm EST :) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8jWTXIh9Vo TV One and CLEO TV on Wednesday, February 13 will have a private presentation of the Television Critics Association's Press Tour hosted at the Langham Hotel in Pasadena, CA. The TCA Press Tour takes place twice a year and provides an unparalleled opportunity to gain access to network executives, producers, talent and creative staff. At this year's Winter TCA, TV One executives will be joined by NAACP President Derrick Johnson and actors Logan Browning (Dear White People) and Winston Duke (Black Panther) to announce nominees for the 2019 50th Anniversary NAACP IMAGE AWARDS. TV One executives will also introduce new sister network, CLEO TV's programming slate, as well as host panels with key talent and production/creative staff. One of Baseball’s all-time greats: Hall of Famer Frank Robinson has died at age 83. He had been suffering from bone cancer. A fixture in baseball for over 60 years, Robinson was the 1956 Rookie of the Year and won the MVP Award in both the National and American Leagues, in 1961 with the Reds and in 1966 with the Orioles. He was also the 1966 Triple Crown winner. For his career he he smacked 586 career homers, placing him 10th on the all-time list. He appeared in 14 All-Star Games and was the 1966 World Series MVP. A part of his game that often goes unnoticed: he led the league in getting hit by pitches seven times in his career. That alone justified his induction into the Hall of Fame, which occurred in his first year of eligibility in 1982. But he was also a trailblazer, becoming the game’s first African-American manager when the Indians hired him as their player-manager for the 1975 season. He would go on to manage for the Giants, the Orioles, the Expos and, upon that franchise’s move to Washington, he became the Nationals first manager. He rarely had teams which underachieved their talent level, and his managerial abilities were on perhaps their best display in Baltimore in 1989 when he turned around a dreadful Orioles club and was named the 1989 AL Manager of the Year. Entrepreneurship and forward thinking is the heartbeat of the city, known globally as a pioneer in both the music and automobile industries, making it the perfect location for The 2nd Annual Millionairess Conference going down at Silver Garden Events Center in Southfield Saturday, April 6, 2019. Detroit is making a serious comeback and Jewel Tankard, Detroit native and global economist is doing her part to amplify the recovery by providing women with the tools and resources to make smart and quality investments. This year's conference theme is Building Wealth Through Innovation, and the one-day power-packed event will focus on building the financial portfolios of ordinary women to help them lead extraordinary lives. Attendees will gain the knowledge, inspiration, and strength needed to dominate in their fields of specialty. TBT...Flash Back Gospel Spotlight! Hear Dr. Jewel Tankard In Her Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/Jewell_Tankard_intvw.htm Kelontae Gavin the 19-year-old social media sensation-turned-recording-artist has been named the new worship pastor of the House of Hope Atlanta megachurch on Sunday. On his social media page, Senior Pastor E. Dewey Smith of the Decatur, Georgia, wrote “FAMILY---So proud to announce that my God-son is the NEW @hohatl ‘Worship Pastor’!!!! What God did TODAY at #HOHATL through him was beyond comprehension!!!! FAMILY, help me welcome @kelontae_gavin to ATLANTA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” Responding in a social media post to the new appointment into the 12-member House of Hope, Gavin wrote “I’m beyond grateful to call HOHATL my new family ? Thank you pastor @edeweysmith for your sensitivity to the spirit and the voice of God.” Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley, pastor of Alfred Street Baptist Church (ASBC) in Alexandria, Va. presented Howard University with a $100,000 gift to cover the outstanding tuition and fee balances of 34 graduating seniors. Wesley announced the contribution during a special service at Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel. Ministers and staff of ASBC joined the Office of Financial Aid to surprise and present unexpecting seniors with the good news earlier in the week. The NAACP announced today that Congresswoman Maxine Waters will be honored with the prestigious NAACP Chairman's Award which is bestowed in recognition of individuals who demonstrate exemplary public service and use their distinct platforms to create agents of change. Leon W. Russell, Chairman of the NAACP National Board of Directors, will present Congresswoman Maxine Waters with the award at the 50th NAACP Image Awards on March 30, 2019 live at 9pm/8c on TV One. “Black Panther” is the first superhero movie to earn a best picture Oscar nomination. The Disney/Marvel film shares the category with BlacKkKlansman,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “The Favourite,” “Green Book,” “Roma,” “A Star Is Born” and “Vice.” The Marvel Studios film also earned nods for best costume design, production design, sound editing, sound mixing, original score and original song. As noted by cnbc.com, while “Black Panther” garnered critical acclaim as well as box office success, that won’t mean it will easily nab the best picture win next month during the ceremony. But making history as the “only superhero film in the bunch isn’t the only thing that sets “Black Panther” apart from the pack,” the outlet writes. “It’s also the highest-grossing film of the eight nominees,” and has earned more money at the domestic box office “than all seven fellow nominees combined.” “Black Panther” bagged more than $700 million domestically and $646.8 million internationally. It is now the third-highest-grossing movie in the U.S. and the ninth globally. Recording artist Doe celebrates her first GRAMMY® Award nomination as a solo artist. The songbird received the nomination for her feature on “Cycles” with Jonathan Mcreynolds in the Best Gospel Song/Performance category. The gripping lyrics of "Cycles" speaks to listener about ending negative patterns and thought processes in their life. Doe also has recently been added on two stops of the upcoming Jonathan Mcreynolds"Make Room" tour (Dallas, TX April 11th & Chicago, Illinois April 15th)." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oS9ovMdhVoA TV One's UNSUNG continues its stellar run with eight new episodes debuting on Sunday, March 3 at 9 p.m. ET/8C. The second season of the network's edgy docu-series UNCENSORED, which gives unprecedented access to pop culture figures, follows with premiere episodes at 10 p.m. ET/9C. UNSUNG celebrates the lives of trailblazing musicians like Adina Howard, The Jets, Shirley Murdock, Crystal Waters, Glenn Jones, Kenny Lattimore and Tasha Cobbs Leonard. UNCENSORED resumes for its second season with DL Hughley, Fantasia, Jermaine Dupri, Tasha Smith, Tami Roman, Naturi Naughton, Kirk Franklin and Ne-Yo. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwEXpZPdT8w&feature=youtu.be Get Ready, Get Ready, Get Ready!!!! New Marvin Sapp "Kind God" coming this Friday 2/8/19! Written and Produced by Kirk Franklin Alfred Haber, President of Alfred Haber, Inc., announced that the company has secured the exclusive international distribution television rights to "Aretha! A GRAMMY® Celebration For The Queen Of Soul", the 2-hour CBS Television Network special scheduled for broadcast later in 2019. Performing songs from Aretha Franklin's legendary career are GRAMMY winners Yolanda Adams, Shirley Caesar, Alessia Cara, Kelly Clarkson, Common, Celine Dion, Jennifer Hudson, Alicia Keys, John Legend, Patti LaBelle, and BeBe Winans as well as current GRAMMY nominees Brandi Carlile, Chloe X Halle, H.E.R., Janelle Monáe, and SZA. Tyler Perry, actor and filmmaker, will host this musical extravaganza honoring Aretha, an 18-time GRAMMY winner and 2008 MusiCares® Person of the Year honoree. The show will also highlight her dedication to philanthropic work which ranged from children's and artists' issues to civil rights activism. Chicago's own Meesha drops New video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QC-DTUPtu1s&feature=youtu.be Charles Jenkins, Senior Pastor of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago, has announced his retirement, effective December 31, 2019. Jenkins joined the pastoral staff of his mentor, Rev. Dr. Clay Evans, founder of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, nearly 21 years ago in 1998. Then in 2000, Jenkins officially succeeded Dr. Evans as Senior Pastor and has since then led the congregation to exponential growth in all areas. Jenkins is also a widely-acclaimed singer, songwriter, and producer having topped the charts consistently since his musical debut in 2012. His recording projects have earned him three Billboard #1 Albums (The Best of Both Worlds, Any Given Sunday and Think About These Things); three Billboard #1 Singles (“Awesome,” “War” and “Grace”); one Billboard #1 Most Radio AirPlay and one Billboard #1 Most Streamed Gospel Artist awards; in addition to nine Stellar Awards. Jenkins has also been nominated for a Soul Train Music Award and multiple Dove Music Awards, while also receiving GRAMMY credit for his songwriting contribution to Israel Houghton’s GRAMMY award-winning, gold certified, Traditional Gospel Album of The Year, “Alive In South Africa.” Jekalyn Carr multi-award winning Gospel artist, speaker, author, and entrepreneur is celebrating a rare feat. The talented individual has garnered the No. 1 spot on two national airplay charts simultaneously with the song, "It's Yours." She is nominated for five Stellar Awards, Female Vocalist of the Year, Traditional Female Vocalist of the Year, Traditional CD of the Year, Recorded Music Package of the Year and Artist of the Year – along with two nominations at this weekend's GRAMMY® Awards for Gospel Album of the Year and Gospel Performance/Song of the Year. Grammy® nominee and Dove Award winner Danny Gokey unveils the visual for his brand new single, “Haven’t Seen It Yet,” lifted from his upcoming fifth studio album. Fresh off the critically-acclaimed “Hope Encounter Tour,” the new single and accompanying visual continues to solidify Gokey as a staple in Christian Contemporary Music. The visual for “Haven’t Seen It Yet” tells the story of a young woman who has lost her way, burdened by a troubled past and abusive relationship. After an altercation with her boyfriend, she runs off to find peace of mind. Appearing to be distraught, Gokey approaches her and shares a simple act of kindness and the gospel. These acts inspire the woman to return home and reunite with her family. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1eMZiOJ0a0&feature=youtu.be The highly anticipated second album from award-winning worship singer and songwriter, Casey J,THE GATHERING, enters both the Billboard Gospel Consumption and Gospel Albums Sales charts at number 2*. THE GATHERING has been met with both critical and consumer acclaim, spurred on by a series of appearances and performances. The album also entered at number 11* on the Billboard Top Christian & Gospel Albums Sales chart. Led by the first single, “If God,” the song also continues to gain momentum and is Top 25 on both Billboard Gospel Airplay and Mediabase Gospel Songs charts. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight. Hear Casey J In Her Own Words.......http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/caseyj_intvw.htm Malaco Music Group has amassed the the largest Black Gospel catalog in the world. Their new collection The Gospel According to Malaco: Celebrating 75 Years of Gospel Music (out February 28, 2019) is an unparalleled book and eight CD set which tells the story of gospel music over a seventy-five year period from the post-war years to the present. This is the first time this story has been told in size and scope, providing the history behind one of the most important genres in music. The compilation offers a number of hit recordings along with numerous musical treasures just waiting to be discovered. The collection includes Mahalia Jackson, Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Rev. James Cleveland, along with other notable artists such as The Gospel Keynotes, Solomon Burke, The Caravans and The Mississippi Mass Choir. This set is also one of the first, if not the first, to explore in depth the mass choir phenomenon that not only dominated gospel radio from the mid 1970s to the early 1990s but also produced many of today’s top-selling songwriters, soloists and musicians. Renowned author and researcher Robert Marovich tells the stories of the 100 recordings contained in the eight CD anthology. Racism has been pretty easy to spot for most people. It felt like the sting of a lash on an enslaved person’s back and smelled like the charred flesh of a public lynching. Since those forms of racial oppression have become frowned upon, so the thinking goes, then we must have moved past racism. Unfortunately, some Christians seem to believe racism is merely a relic of a bygone era. In an admirable effort to reckon with its racial past, leaders at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary formed a commission to examine the school’s racist founding and present their findings. The history, dating back to the mid-19th century, was as honest as it was tragic. For instance, all four original founders of the seminary held slaves, and one donor who saved the seminary from financial ruin earned his wealth through convict leasing. Yet the report stopped too soon. It ended in the mid-1960s, giving the impression that racism had, for the most part, ended with the civil rights movement. Christians who see racism as mainly a problem of the past often fail to see that they or other people of faith still hold negative views about people of certain races and ethnicities. TV One celebrates celebrates Black History Month with a tribute to inspirational black women and a full schedule of programs that exemplifies this year's theme, "REPRESENT CHANGE." The network is set to premiere a short form video campaign featuring influential black women who are impacting change in our nation, and their communities and families. Featured campaign participants include Kimberly Bryant, Founder & CEO, Black Girls Code; Monique Nelson, Chair & CEO, UniWorld Group; Mahisha Dellinger, CEO & Founder, CURLS Beauty Brands;Tamika Mallory, Co-President, Women's March; Luvvie Ajayi, Author/Cultural Critic; Elaine Welteroth, Beauty/Fashion Expert; Patrisse Cullors, Co-Founder, Black Lives Matter; Bilphena Yahwon, Author/Activist; Monique Brown, Baltimore Police Commander; Adrienne Lofton, Sportswear Marketing Expert; Yo-Yo, Hip Hop Artist/Activist; Cleve Mesidor, Activist/Technology Innovator; Michelle Rice, TV One General Manager; and Arielle Johnson, Founder, Fierce Empowerment. The campaign will feature 30-second on-air interstitials that highlight the women speaking on the impact of action and change. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VITCqmKJlFg GRAMMY®-nominated chart topper Koryn Hawthorne, has released a fiery power anthem with her single “Unstoppable” (feat. Lecrae). Newly-released to radio and available now at digital music providers, the official music video for “Unstoppable” (feat. Lecrae) will also premiere on the Koryn Hawthorne YouTube channel on February 2 at 7:00 pm ET. Additionally, Hawthorne teams up with the two-time GRAMMY®-winning rapper on February 2, in their live television debut of “Unstoppable” at the 20th Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration, which airs on BET at 8 pm ET/PT. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=us7hvF6lsoc After 4 years Sunday best returns with Kirk Franklin as host. Sunday Best is taking Audition Submissions now. Sunday Best is a reality television Gospel music singing competition series which airs on BET. Each season, the show and its judges set out to find the best undiscovered gospel talent in America. Finalists competed each week until a winner is crowned. Judges in the past has been Yolanda Adams, Kierra Sheard, Donnie McClurkin, Mary Mary, Bebe Winans and Cece Winans. Past on screen mentors have been Donald Lawreance and Kim Burrell. The Sunday Best winners in past years have received a national recording contracts, a new automobile and an undisclosed cash prize benefiting their community as well as the title of "Sunday Best." TITUS SHOWERS, the former lead singer of two-time Stellar Nominated sibling "THE SHOWERS" drops his debut single "In His Name." The perfect mix of a radio hit and a church anthem in one! Rappers Jay-Z and Meek Mill have joined with sports and business leaders to try and reform the criminal justice system. The pair were on hand Wednesday at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York to announce the formation of the REFORM Alliance, an organization that aims to reduce the number of people serving unjust parole and probation sentences...The group has pledged $50 million to launch the organization and hired CNN political commentator Van Jones as CEO. Wendy Raquel Robinson and Tank will host the 2019 Bounce Trumpet Awards. The gala black-tie ceremonythat was held at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, Georgia Sat. Jan. 19, 2019 and will world premiere nationwide on Bounce Sun. Feb. 17 at 9:00 p.m. ET. Ashanti, India.Arie, Da Brat, Lil' Mama and YoYo, Keyshia Cole and more are scheduled to perform. Parishioners wiped away tears and gave thanks to God as the first Roman Catholic church built since the 1959 Cuban revolution opened its doors on Saturday. "To see this finished is like coming out of the night into the day," said Rev. Cirilo Castro, the Cuban priest who oversaw construction of the church. "We knew it would happen one day." That the communist-run government allowed a new church to be built, with two more on the way, represents another milestone in the state's evolving relationship with organized religion. Immediately after Fidel Castro took power in 1959, his revolutionary government cracked down on religion. Castro viewed the Catholic Church as a particularly dangerous threat to the atheist state he envisioned for Cuba. The revolution soon closed down all parochial schools, sent priests to reeducation camps and drove organized religion underground. But after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Fidel Castro tried to break the isolation enveloping Cuba by inviting Pope John Paul II to the island. Christmas was restored as a holiday in Cuba and slowly people of faith said they no longer feared worshiping openly. Fred "Uncle Freddie" Jerkins III, President of DarkChild Gospel, new cancer awareness project, “A Project of Healing ,” continues to make waves at Gospel radio. The album, “A Project of Healing,” encompasses fourteen songs of Faith, Hope and Victory to help those who have been impacted by the disease Cancer. The projects' second single, “Victory” featuring duo, Last Call, remains at #1 on the Billboard Gospel Indicator Chart for the 9th week and jumps 3 positions to take the #3 spot on Billboard National Gospel Airplay Chart. Watch the NEW Official Music Video for the hit single "VICTORY" here! Last Call consists of Bermuda based best friends Adrian Jones and Tricray . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQ345OwOLpc&feature=youtu.be Many conservative Christian denominations have spent the past several years reckoning with their legacy of white supremacy. The darkest parts of American history are full of Christian characters, including scores of pastors and theologians. A number of still-existing denominations, among them the Southern Baptist Convention, were first formed to defend slavery*. Some well-respected Christian scholars dedicated their lives to rationalizing racial hierarchies with the Bible. And terrorist groups such as the Ku Klux Klan claimed an explicitly Protestant identity, with some pastors openly supporting their cause.To reconcile this past, contemporary pastors have gathered at annual conventions to pass numerous resolutions opposing racism with occasional stumbles. A flagship Southern Baptist seminary published a report in late 2018 detailing its own long history of support for slavery and Jim Crow policies. “We knew, and we could not fail to know, that slavery and deep racism were in the story,” wrote R. Albert Mohler Jr., the seminary’s president. “We comforted ourselves that we could know this, but since these events were so far behind us, we could move on without awkward and embarrassing investigations and conversations.” The denomination’s first apology for its slavery-promoting past came in 1995. In The Color of Compromise, the writer Jemar Tisby challenges the notion that white supremacy is merely a legacy, and not a present reality, in the church. “Christian complicity with racism in the 21st century looks different than complicity with racism in the past,” he argues. “It looks like Christians responding to black lives matter with the phrase all lives matter. It looks like Christians consistently supporting a president whose racism has been on display for decades.” Perhaps, he writes, “Christian complicity in racism has not changed much after all.” While Tisby is nominally writing for the church at large, he is specifically focused on its conservatives—“Bible-believing” Christians who come out of traditional theological backgrounds similar to his own. R&B legend Donny Hathaway will be honored with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of his death. The 2019 list of recipients was announced by the Recording Academy on Dec. 19 and features Dionne Warwick, George Clinton & Parliament, Black Sabbath, Julio Iglesias, Billy Eckstine and Sam & Dave. Hathaway, whose classics include “Someday We’ll All Be Free,” “A Song For You,” and “This Christmas,” is one of three posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award recipients, including Dave Prater of Sam & Dave. According to a press release, the Lifetime Achievement Award “celebrates performers who have made outstanding contributions of artistic significance to the field of recording.” In addition, Lou Adler, Ashford & Simpson, and Johnny Mandel are honorees of the Trustees Award. Jonathan Butler a recording artist from South Africa is in The Gospel Spotlight. He talks about his huge hit song "Falling In Love With Jesus" and more. Flash Back to Jonathan Butler..... http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/jonathan_butler_intvw.htm R&B singer James Ingram, who collected two Grammy Awards and a pair of No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 hits over his decades-long career, has died at age 66. The news was shared via Twitter by Ingram's friend and creative partner Debbie Allen on Tuesday (Jan. 29). There are no details yet about when or how Ingram died. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight. Hear James Ingram one last time, he was interviewed Inside of The Gospel Spotlight. R.I. P. http://gospel-spotlight.com/james_ingram_intvw.htm Marvel’s “Black Panther” will be back in theaters next month following the film’s Best Picture Oscar nomination. The screenings will be free in honor of Black History Month and will be held Feb. 1-7 at 250 AMC Theatres around the country. According to THR, it’s common for best picture nominees to return to theaters for limited runs ahead of the final round of Oscar voting, which begins Feb. 12 through Feb. 19. Directed by Ryan Coogler, “Black Panther” made history again when it became the first comic book movie to be nominated for a Best Picture Oscar. On Sunday, the actioner became the first superhero flick to win the Screen Actors Guild Award for outstanding performance by a cast in a motion picture. Check out the animated visual for the song “He Heard My Cry” (feat. Sir the Baptist and Arnetta Murrill-Crooms), from GRAMMY®-winning Gospel Icon Donald Lawrence. Filled with a rich color palette and striking artwork, the lyric video brings alive the stylistic flourishes that Lawrence is known for in his music. Donald Lawrence Presents The Tri-City Singers: “He Heard My Cry,” marks the second single released from the forthcoming celebratory album, Goshen. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qc7ayHxaxRA Taraji P. Henson broke down in tears while receiving her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Monday. The “Empire” star discussed her grandmother, who was in attendance, and how her prayers and support inspired the actress throughout her career. “You put me on the spot! But, what I love about my grandmother is her unconditional love,” she explained to ET’s Courtney Tezeno spoke after the ceremony. “She taught the family how to love, and she keeps us very close. All my cousins and I are really, really close. But of course, she prayed. She did a lot of praying and she continues to pray for me, and like I said in my speech, her prayers definitely brought me here. So, my grandmother’s my everything. Celebrated Bible Teacher, Author, Musician, Billboard chart-topping Songwriter and multi-site Pastor Hart Ramsey welcomes multiple Stellar Award winning Grammy and Dove award nominated Christian Rap Urban Missionary and Philadelphia native Emanuel Lee Lambert, Jr. a/k/a Da' T.R.U.T.H. as he steps into his new assignment as Youth Pastor of the Northview Christian Church (NCC) Dothan Campus. "Teenagers are more endangered today than any other generation in history," Pastor Ramsey noted."With access to modern society by the touch of an app, exposure to any and everything the world has to offer, role models with no sense of responsibility for what they"re promoting and a church that has all but lost touch. Our Montgomery campus (Safe Harbor) has Adrian Mask—a brilliant, innovative young leader spearheading our Metamorphosis (m2) Youth Circle. But DOTHAN (the main NCC Campus) had no youth leader. That's until Emanuel Lambert (Da' T.R.U.T.H.) came to minister for us last year. It took one conversation for us to know that “GOD was up to something good”. So, we took some time, committed the whole thing to prayer, and decided to make it happen.” A preeminent leader in the Christian Rap Movement, Da’ T.R.U.T.H. is a graduate of the Philadelphia Biblical University and The Institute of Jewish Studies. One of the Bible’s best-known stories comes to life on movie screens for a special nationwide event April 9, 11 and 13. Filmed in front of a live audience, Sight & Sound’s NOAH is the dramatic, musical version of the man who trusted God in the toughest circumstances. More than 5 million people have experienced the live performance of NOAH at Sight & Sound’s theaters in Lancaster, PA, and Branson, MO, – making it Sight & Sound’s most-attended show in their 42-year history. GH3 Radio Station garners a nomination . GH3 Radio - God's House of Hip Hop on Dash is the Nominee for "Internet Radio Station of the Year" for the 34th Annual Stellar Awards. It is the first time in the history of the Stellar's that CHH & Gospel Hip Hop station has been recognized. Congratulations GH3 Radio - God's House of Hip Hop! 2018 Stellar Gospel Music Award Nominee Gods Posse Releases New Single "Anchored." The song "Anchored" encourages you to make sure to be rooted and grounded in God and his word! The song speaks to the believer to have your faith anchored in the Lord! The members are Ray Burnett, Tim Henderson, Anthony Watkins, John Atkins, Deonadre Sanders, Randy Berry Sr, Keith Hoskins Jr, and Maurice Harmon. Gods Posse's purpose for their ministry is to be used by God to round up souls for the Kingdom, so that God can get the glory through it all. The official music video for Kirk Franklin's new song "Love Theory" is now available! You can also catch the 12-time GRAMMY winner performing at the upcoming 20th Super Bowl Gospel Celebration, airing on February 2nd. Franklin also has a nomination (his 23rd GRAMMY nomination) at the upcoming GRAMMY Awards, for his work on Tori Kelly's Hiding Place album. Kirk Franklin - Love Theory (Official Music Video) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3aD8OK07iIY Oscar-nominated actress Taraji P. Henson will be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame later this month. The “Empire” star will be joined at the ceremony by director John Singleton and singer Mary J. Blige. “Taraji P Henson is a powerful woman and a powerful actress. She is an entertainer that fans cannot take their eyes off of due to her great acting ability,” said Ana Martinez, producer of the Walk Of Fame. “We welcome her bright star on our Walk Of Fame.” “This Is A Move” is here! Tasha Cobbs Leonard’s powerful new song is sure to become your favorite new worship anthem. It’s a reminder of who God is and what God does. Take a listen and get ready for God to move! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JrP63AbapVo Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s family home in Atlanta’s Vine City neighborhood will now become part of the city’s federal park, which includes the church where he preached and the birth home of the civil rights icon. The new worship ballad from the incomparable hit singer/songwriter and worship leader, VaShawn Mitchell, declares that God can blow your mind. "God Can Do Anything" is a simple song in it's structure, but delivers a powerful, climactic spirit-filled experience. Rounded-out with passionate praise team background vocals, this song is sure to live in the life of the church. In a time when we need hope and faith VaShawn's new hit single "God Can Do Anything" is a gift for the healing of our land. Let this song bless you. FlashBack Gospel Spotlight. Hear VaShawn Mitchell In His Own Words.....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/vashawn_mitchell_intvw.htm The Broadway-bound production of BeBe Winans' new autobiographical musical BORN FOR THIS, releases its first-ever music video of the title song, starring Donald Webber, Jr., who is set to depict Winans when BORN FOR THIS comes to Broadway (theatre and dates TBA). Mr. Winans makes a cameo appearance in the music video, as well. A young veteran of Broadway (HAMILTON, MOTOWN), Donald Webber, Jr. is currently starring as Aaron Burr opposite Lin-Manuel Miranda as Alexander Hamilton in an historic, 3-week engagement of HAMILTON in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where the musical has already raised $15 million for the recovery effort on the island, still reeling from the after-effects of Hurricane Maria in 2017. BORN FOR THIS -- which chronicles BeBe Winans' struggles between family, faith and fame and is directed by Charles Randolph-Wright, produced by Ron Gillyard and MyDestiny Productions -- has previously been staged at major theatres in Los Angeles, Atlanta, Washington DC and Boston, prior to its Broadway opening later this year. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlTjaiE7mDU&feature=youtu.be Marquis Boone’s gospel music group, Fresh Start Worship, continues to reach new heights as gospel music’s top new gospel group. Currently, Fresh Start Worship is sitting at #5 on the Gospel Airplay Chart with the single, “Mention.” Fresh Start Worship’s self-titled debut album is available now at all major digital retailers. Available now is the accompanying music video for the single, “Mention.” https://youtu.be/MX-O1GbBQO0 The 20th Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration will be hosted by Rickey Smiley. The annual NFL-Sanctioned event will will go down during Super Bowl LIII week, filming in front of a live audience on Thursday, January 31, 2019 at Atlanta Symphony Hall. The one-hour special will feature performances by Kirk Franklin, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, The Winans, Lecrae, Hezekiah Walker, Tamia, Koryn Hawthorne and the Super Bowl Gospel NFL Players Choir. Additionally, the celebration will honor Denver Bronco’s linebacker Von Miller with the annual “Faith in Action” award for his work with his charity Von’s Vision. Returning to BET Networks for the sixth consecutive year on February 2, 2019, The Super Bowl Gospel Celebration special will premiere exclusively on BET Networks on Saturday, February 2, 2019 at 8:00PM ET/PT. Damien Sneed released a new full-length recording "Damien Sneed: We Shall Overcome." The inspiring new project is currently available on iTunes, Amazon, Google Play and all other digital retail outlets everywhere. A celebration of R&B classics, civil rights anthems, beloved spirituals, jazz compositions and more. Included among the album’s 18 tracks are Sneed’s unique arrangements of Billie Holiday’s “God Bless The Child,” pianist Billy Taylor’s “I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free,” Duke Ellington’s “Come Sunday,” Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On,” Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Proud Mary” (popularized by Ike & Tina Turner), Paul Simon’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” Bobby Timmons’ jazz standard “Moanin’” and the traditional title tune “We Shall Overcome.” Sneed also contributes an original tune called “I Dream A World,” inspired by the Langston Hughes poem. TV One recently hosted an exclusive preview event at The Henry by Chef JJ in New York City with culinary artist Chef JJ Johnson to celebrate the launch of new entertainment network CLEO TV and the series premiere of JUST EATS WITH CHEF JJ. Invited journalists mingled with the charismatic chef and sampled curated selections from his critically-acclaimed Manhattan eatery, including Fig French Toast, Biscuit Sammys, Egg Rice, Brown Paper Bag Fried Chicken and Collard Green Salad. In addition, the press received an exclusive glimpse of the series that kicked off CLEO TV's debut on Saturday. Emcee N.I.C.E., 2019 Stellar Awards Nominee, drops new single "Lift Me Up" featuring Grammy Nominee, Billboard and Stellar Awards 2018 Gospel Song of the Year WINNER, Bishop Cortez Vaughn. "Lift Me Up" is a song that focuses on N.I.C.E.'s relationship with God as he is openly sharing his trials and tribulations and tells how his faith brought him through the fire, sharing his testimony of freedom with a blend of scripture, mixed with classic hip hop and an infusion of throw back soul. Flash Back Gospel Spotlight. Hear Emcee N.IC.E. In His Own Words...https://gospel-spotlight.com/emceenice_intvw.htm BGA Music Group, the record label who launched the career of Stellar and Dove Award Nominated Artist G.I., has now launched the national ministry of 11-year old singer and preacher Antonio Tucker with his single release “ Overcome .” The words are powerful, the melody is memorable, and the message is universal. Antonio has been termed “Little Bishop TD Jakes” for his preaching and “Little Michael Jackson” for his amazing vocal presentation, stage presence and energy. He started singing at the age of 3, and preaching at the age of 7. Antonio is already in demand preaching and singing almost every weekend of each month. He’s a straight “A” student (who’s never made a B his entire academic career). He is also a vocal and piano student at BGA School of Music, the Performing Arts School in Richmond VA. http://hyperurl.co/phixj9 On The View, Yolanda Adams and Miles Caton performed in Honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Day Celebration. After King's death, U.S. Representative John Conyers (D) Michigan and U.S. Senator Edward Brooke (R) Massachusetts introduced a bill in Congress to make King's birthday a national holiday. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4O1rb06Omg Members of the Grammy® Award winning Thompson Community Singers, or the Tommies, as their fans call them; have come together as The Tommies Reunion. From 1982 through 2001, The Tommies dominated the radio airwaves with hits like "For the Good of Them" and "Safe in His Arms." Now, they are back with the rousing new radio smash, "He'll Work it Out." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ogQ5IAlUxXU Earl Bynum has a nationally syndicated radio show on the Rejoice Musical Soulfood Network and he is adding Lucinda Moore as co-host on his On Stage With Earl Bynumradio show. She is an entrepreneur and a powerhouse vocalist who has undeniable wit and charm. These two Stellar Gospel Music Award-winning artists and trendsetters have joined forces to bring more Gospel music to fans all over the globe. SRT Entertainment and its media partners congratulates Keith Wonderboy Johnson and Jarell Smalls & Co. on 7 combined Stellar Awards Nominations for the upcoming 34th Annual Stellar Awards Showthat goes down Friday, March 29, 2019 at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas. Keith Wonderboy Johnson celebrating his 20th Anniversary chart topping Gospel album Keep Pushin, garners 3 Stellar Awards nominations. His debut single “Keep Pushin” reached the top 20 and spent 20 weeks on the Billboard & Mediabase Gospel Airplay charts. Keith Wonderboy Johnson has struck gold again climbing onto the Mediabase Gospel Airplay charts Top 30 with the release of his new soulful single, “The Man.” LEXI, releases a new rendition of the famous Quincy Jones’ song “Tomorrow (A Better You, Better Me).” In celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and poised to inspire us through Black History Month, the uplifting single is available today on all digital platforms. The singer will debut the song at an exclusive performance at the NATPE (National Association of Television Program Executives) Miami Conference 2019 , during the first ever “Living the Dream: A Career in Content” event in partnership with the NAACP, (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) and the NHFA (National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts). Her performance will follow Tyler Perry’s keynote address at the landmark event, which will also boast power-panels comprised of top industry talent, such as actor/singer Jussie Smollett (FOX’s Empire) and Nischelle Turner (Host, Entertainment Tonight). Held on MLK Day, Monday, January 21, 2019, the event is designed to raise awareness of diversity and inclusion in front and behind the camera as well as in all creative content organizations. Lexi will also go live on Instagram on January 21, to host an exclusive interaction with fans live from the NATPE Miami Conference. Lexi continues to promote her album, "Just Listen." The project’s second single, “Wherever I Go,” continues to do well on the charts. Flashback Gospel Spotlight. Hear Lexi In Her Own Words.....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/lexi_intvw.htm Marie Jean Pierre, a devout Christian who refused to work on Sundays, was fired from her job as a hotel dishwasher in 2016 for not showing up for six Sunday shifts. So she sued her employer and recently scored a legal victory when a jury awarded her $21 million. “I love God,” she told NBC 6 Miami. “No work on Sunday, because Sunday I honor God.” Pierre argued that her firing was a violation of her civil rights and religious beliefs, so she took legal action against the Conrad Miami hotel, the Miami Herald reports, filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission accusing the Hilton-owned hotel of “creating a hostile work environment.”https://youtu.be/ZuyzFXEJpYs Singer and songwriter Glenn Gray continues to offer his unique brand of music with a message with inspiring lyrics and melodies. Following suit, the Flint, Michigan resident delivers his new single, In It All the Way, available today on all digital music platforms. “It is my hope that we will continue to make room for the group of talented singers and musicians coming behind us, “says Gray. “Music has a universal appeal and I always pray that we are able to make the type of music that speaks to audiences of every generation.” Gladys Knight said, "I am here today and on Sunday, Feb. 3 to give the Anthem back its voice, to stand for that historic choice of words, the way it unites us when we hear it and to free it from the same prejudices and struggles I have fought long and hard for all my life, from walking back hallways, from marching with our social leaders, from using my voice for good — I have been in the forefront of this battle longer than most of those voicing their opinions to win the right to sing our country’s Anthem on a stage as large as the Super Bowl LIII.” “No matter who chooses to deflect with this narrative and continue to mix these two in the same message, it is not so and cannot be made so by anyone speaking it. I pray that this National Anthem will bring us all together in a way never before witnessed and we can move forward and untangle these truths which mean so much to all of us. On Sunday, the Rev. Wilbur Purvis asked how many members of his congregation were affected by the partial government shutdown. Several raised their hands. The pastor of Destiny World Church in Austell prayed for them, but something in his heart told him to do more. A few days later, he handed out $500 checks to five people. “I want to make sure we are taking care of our own,” said Purvis, who tapped the church’s benevolent fund. “I think this is shameful that we live in a country where our leader can hold people hostage like the government workers.” Around metro Atlanta, churches and faith-based organizations are stepping up to help Georgians affected by the shutdown. On Sunday, the Rev. Wilbur Purvis asked how many members of his congregation were affected by the partial government shutdown. https://www.ajc.com/lifestyles/atlanta-churches-faith-groups-help-furloughed-federal-workers/8Fg1OCMlSlHRDOQBAEt0mL/ John Boyega, who’s best known for playing Finn in the “Star Wars” films “The Last Jedi” and “The Force Awakens,” is now executive producing a South African crime-thriller called “God Is Good.” The film was shot in Cape Town’s Cape Flats and follows a “reformed gangster-turned-pastor and a volatile detective who cross paths after an act of brutal violence sets them on a collision course with a heinous gang lieutenant.” Producers are said to have compared the movie to “Prisoners” and “City of God,” and are in the process of selecting cast members. A new radio documentary that explores the history of black gospel music and illustrates its significant influence on the formation of rock and soul music will be broadcast by US radio stations in February, during Black History Month. Hosted by GRAMMY award-winner CeCe Winans, Gospel Roots of Rock and Soul is produced by Philadelphia public radio station WXPN and distributed by NPR. Through in-depth interviews with artists and dozens of songs (including many archival selections), the four-hour documentary illuminates the profound impact that gospel music has made on popular music. Tyscot Records and its affiliated artists have earned ten nominations in the upcoming 34th annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards ceremony which takes place Friday, March 29, 2019 at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas. Kelontae Gavin smash, “No Ordinary Worship,” has accumulated over 10 million streams. He has earned four nods in the categories of Male Vocalist of the Year, Contemporary Male Vocalist of the Year, Contemporary CD of the Year and Praise and Worship CD of the Year for his debut album, The Higher Experience. Bishop Noel Jones’ The City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir’s sophomore album, Run to the Altar also earned four nominations. Cheryl Fortune debut album, Simply Cheryl and Vashawn Mitchell, earned a nominations as well. Currently, Tyscot has several projects in the pipeline including Casey J’s second album release, The Gathering, which releases January 25th and The Tommies Reunion’s highly-anticipated self-titled album which will release February 22nd. Entertainment One (eOne), subsidiary Light Records, and Indie Blu received a total of 24 nominations for The 34th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards. Jonathan McReynolds leads the field with nine nominations. Todd Dulaney garners six nominations, Judah Band and Jabari Johnson both earned their first nominations. Also seeing their first nominations are Benita Jones and Shana Wilson Williams and Dexter Walker & Zion Movement. AWARD-WINNING AND GRAMMY®-NOMINATED ARTIST KORYN HAWTHORNE will be performing at NBA Atlanta Hawks Game Faith and Family Day (National Anthem, Half-time show, and Post Game performances) Monday, January 21st, 2019 (MLK Holiday). Game time: 3:00 PM EST. The 21 years old, Dove Award-winning and GRAMMY®-nominated artist Koryn Hawthorne has quickly broken records with her smash hit, "Won't He Do It," being crowned the first female artist to hold the #1 position on the Billboard Hot Gospel Songs Chart for 40 weeks. Flashback Gospel Spotlight. Hear Koryn Hawthorne In Her Own Words.....https://gospel-spotlight.com/korynhawthorne_intvw.htm The Pan African Film & Arts Festival announced that it will celebrate its 27th Annual Opening Night with a screening of Aretha Franklin’s cherished Amazing Grace concert documentary at the Directors Guild of America. The festival, which presents an impressive slate of over 170 new Black films from the US and around the world and exhibits more than 100 fine artists and unique craftspeople, starts on Thursday, February 7 through Monday, February 18 at the Cinemark Rave 15 Theatres in Los Angeles, California. Aretha Franklin’s spine-tingling and uplifting Amazing Grace, produced by Alan Elliott, was originally directed by Sydney Pollack in 1972 at New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles, California. The film, a rare gem in the crown of the late musical genius, has not been seen before now due to technical and rights issues. “It’s such a blessing to open the festival this year with Amazing Grace,” expressed PAFF Co-Founder and Actor Danny Glover. “Aretha Franklin is a rare treasure. To be graced with this film is an honor and a testament to the perseverance and long-standing prominence of the festival’s impact.” The Anthony Burrell Center for Dance (ABCD) announce Ascension – The Grand Opening Celebration & Fundraiser on January 20thin Atlanta, Ga. Founder Anthony Burrell is a Philadelphia born Creative Director, Choreographer, and Actor. He is seen as the creative force on E! Entertainment for Mariah’s World, Mariah Carey’s Vegas Residency 1 to Infinity, Sweet Sweet Fantasy, Un-Silent Night Christmas, and All I Want for Christmas at the Beacon Theater. Burrell is part of the artistic team behind Beyonce’s Super Bowl 50 Halftime Show, MTV Awards (2016), Country Music Awards (2016), The Formation World Tour, and countless music videos. He has won an MTV Video Music Award for ‘Best Choreography’ in Beyonce’s ‘Formation’ and was nominated for ‘Best Choreography’ in Beyonce’s ‘Sorry.’ Burrell’s recent film credits include Lemonade, Bad Grandpa, and Leave It On the Floor. Gary Hines and SOUNDS OF BLACKNESS to appear Mon Jan 21, at Martin Luther King Breakfast Sponsored by General Mills Live Broadcast 8-9a TPT-TV Don Lemon, Keynote Speaker Flashback Gospel Spotlight. Hear Gary Hines In His Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/garyhines_intvw.htm Central City Productions announces the nominees in 28 categories for the 34th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, hosted again this year by Kirk Franklin on Friday, March 29. Contemporary gospel artist Jonathan McReynolds leads the field of nominees with nine nominations. The powerhouse singer earned recognition for"Make Room" as well as in the key categories of Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, CD of the Year, Producer of the Year, Contemporary Male Vocalist of the Year, Contemporary CD of the Year, Urban/Inspirational Single or Performance of the Year and Recorded Music Packaging of the Year. Maranda Curtis earned seven nominations,including Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Albertina Walker Female Vocalist of the Year, CD of the Year, Traditional Female Vocalist of the Year, Recorded Music package of the Year, and Praise and Worship CD of the Year for her work on “Open Heaven.” This year promises to pleasantly surprise the gospel audience with nominations for secular artists Snoop Dogg and Tori Kelly. Snoop Dogg garners three nominations for CD of the Year, Contemporary CD of the Year and Special Event CD of the Year with his “Bible of Love” and Tori Kelly has landed three nominations the Albertina Walker Female Vocalist of the Year and Contemporary Female Vocalist of the Year with “Hiding Place” as well as Urban/Inspirational Single or Performance of the Year for “Never Alone” Host Kirk Franklin. Todd Dulaney is blessed with six nominations for “Your Great Name” for Artist of the Year, CD of the Year, Producer of the Year, Contemporary Male Vocalist of the Year, Contemporary CD of the Year and Praise & Worship CD of the Year. Jekalyn Carr earned five nominations with Artist of the Year, Albertina Walker Female Vocalist of the Year, Traditional Female Vocalist of the Year, Traditional CD of the Year and Recorded Music Packaging of the Year for “One Nation Under God.” Koryn Hawthorne, Kelontae Gavin, Bishop Noel Jones & City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir and Jarrell Smalls and Company had 4 nominations each. RCA Inspiration celebrates a total of 21 Stellar Awards nominations for the 34thAnnual Stellar Awards. From prolific superstars to rising contemporaries, the list of nominees includes Donald Lawrence, Fred Hammond, Israel Houghton, Jason Nelson, Koryn Hawthorne, Tasha Page-Lockhart, The Walls Group, WOW Gospel 2018 and hip hop icon Snoop Dogg. RCA Inspiration’s nominations for the 2019 show span twelve categories including top categories Song of the Year, Albertina Walker Female Vocalist of the Year, Duo/Chorus Group of the Year, CD of the Year, and Producer of the Year. Kirk Franklin also returns as host of the show for the second consecutive year. Additionally, RCA Inspiration SVP and General Manager Phil Thornton will be inducted into the Stellar Honors Hall of Fame. On Thursday, TV One hosted a private event at CiRCO in Dallas, TX to celebrate and preview new entertainment network CLEO TV on Thursday, January 10. Derived from the name Cleopatra, CLEO TV is an aspirational lifestyle and entertainment network targeting Millennial and Gen X women of color. With a bold, fearless and fresh take, CLEO TV gives multicultural young women a destination for content centered around travel, home design, relationships, finances, cooking, talk shows, movies, docu-series, sitcoms and much more. CLEO TV will be broadly distributed on Comcast Xfinity beginning January 19, 2019, with additional affiliate distribution agreements to be announced in the coming months. A number of celebrities gathered for a tribute concert in celebration of the Queen Of Soul on Sunday, Jan. 13, and The AP reports that every rendition of Aretha’s Franklin’s songs brought audience members to their feet at the “Aretha! A GRAMMY Celebration For The Queen Of Soul” in Los Angeles. According to Page Six, a montage of the late singer was shown throughout the show including one with onscreen quotes from former President Barack Obama, Barbra Streisand, Willie Nelson and Tony Bennett. “Aretha set the bar,” a quote from Quincy Jones read. The 34th Annual Stellar Award nominations were announced today. Motown Gospel and Capitol Records talent received 7 nominations in various categories. Brian Courtney Wilson’s first Stellar Award solo nominations for the album A GREAT WORK. Wilson earned nods for Male Vocalist of the Year and Music Video Of the Year for his number one single “A Great Work.” Multiple award winner Tye Tribbett also earned two additional Stellar Award nominations in both Male Vocalist of the Year and Contemporary Male Vocalist of the Year. While Tasha Cobbs Leonard received a nod for her “You Know My Name (Live) from HEART. PASSION. PURSUIT.: Live At Passion City. Motown Gospel also celebrates the nominations of Capitol Records artist Tori Kelly, whose album HIDING PLACE received three nominations. The Albertina Walker Female Vocalist of the Year and Contemporary Female Vocalist of the Year and the lead single, “Never Alone,” featuring Kirk Franklin was nominated for Urban/Inspirational Song of the Year. Jennifer Hudson, who will star in Franklin’s biopic “Respect,” kicked off the tribute with a performance of “Think” and Keys and SZA took the stage for a duet of “Day Dreaming.” Celion Dion performed Franklin’s version of “A Change is Gonna Come,” and Patti Labelle served up a soaring rendition of “Call Me.” Fantasia, Andra Day, Brandi Carlile and Alessia Cara sang “Natural Woman” together, and Common joined Yolanda Adams for a performance of “Young, Gifted and Black.” The woman known for fixing folk’s lives apparently wants no parts of R. Kelly’s. Iyanla Vanzant says she gave a big NO to the troubled singer when he asked her to be on her OWN show Iyanla: Fix My Life.” According to Vanzant, Kelly – who’s dealing with allegations of predatory and sexually abusive behavior with women and underage girls – wasn’t ready for her help. Vanzant spoke to ABC News about dealing with him ahead of this past weekend’s season six premiere of her show. The noted motivational speaker said R. Kelly reached out to her well before the Lifetime docuseries “Surviving R. Kelly.” “He didn’t meet one of the criteria that we had for guests,” she said. “Are they willing? Are they ready? Do they have the capacity to do the work? He didn’t have it, the emotional capacity. He just didn’t have it, and I knew, based on what I was looking at — the paces I would have had to take him though — it would have been brutal. He didn’t have the capacity because he hasn’t done the work.” Vanzant, who said she’s experienced sexual violence herself, said that Kelly would need to own up to what he’s done for any healing to happen, but she said that prison isn’t the answer, either. “I would never, ever condone or justify anything that he’s been accused of doing,” she said. “But locking him up in jail is not the answer … he’s sick … Just like the people he allegedly committed these acts with — they’re sick. This needs to be massive healing — them, him all of them. A Florida lawmaker wants students to study the Bible in public schools. State Rep. Kimberly Daniels, a Democrat from District 14 which represents Jacksonville, filed House Bill 195 earlier this week. The bill, Study of the Bible and Religion, would require school districts to offer religion classes to high school students as an elective. The bill would allow: An objective study of religion. An objective study of the Bible, including, but not limited to, a course on the Hebrew Scriptures and Old Testament of the Bible. A course on the New Testament of the Bible. A course on the Hebrew Scriptures, the Old Testament of the Bible, and the New Testament of the Bible. According to the bill, the courses would be offered to students in grades 9 through 12, and would also include a brief meditation period during classes. If passed, it would go into effect on July 1. Legendary rapper/reality TV star Rev. Run, Joseph Simmons, reflects on his career with iconic hip-hop group, Run-DMC. “I’m very proud of what I’ve accomplished,” Run told TheWrap. “I’m not the EGOT guy like John Legend, but once you’ve got a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame trophy and a Lifetime Achievement Grammy, you’re pretty much killing it…or killed it.” He not only cites Drake and Bruno Mars among his favorite newer artists, Run says, he’s “not the old-school angry rapper. I actually look for new hit records and enjoy them.” “I still love rap,” he continued. “I love seeing Beyonce and Jay-Z tour the world. I love what Meek Mill just put out. I’m not one of those old-school guys who says, ‘Back when I was younger…’ I’m not the old-school angry rapper. I actually look for new hit records and enjoy them, like Nicki Minaj, Flipp Deniro and other stuff. I’m into rap, I’m not only up on it, I love it.” Bishop Leonard Scott drops new lyric video for "Working in My Favor" featuring Fred Hammond, Shirley Murdock, Jeral V. Gray and New Direction. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7Eo9Tq6264&list=PLTrE4YHZWqclJeUomKIQRzF6yEKo9cT5z&index=12 Isabel Davis drops new single "Wide As The Sky" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5i4QL9ZpFJI&feature=youtu.be Following his number one single, “A Great Work,” Brian Courtney Wilson offers a new track “Increase My Faith.” The upbeat single sets an atmosphere for increased faith and greatness in the new year. Wilson is enjoying a great start to the year, hot off the heels of his two Grammy® Award nominations. As a long-time resident of Houston, he will serve as the “Entertainment Grand Marshal” for Houston’s Original MLK Jr. Day Parade organized by the Black Heritage Society. He also joins the parade’s additional Grand Marshals, Georgia congressman and civil rights leader John Lewis, and Houston Astros outfielder George Springer. Also announced recently, Brian and legendary singer Fred Hammond will hit the road on “The Vintage Tour.” The nationwide tour will launch this spring and is being billed as a musical retrospective of their greatest hits. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IY3sMFBDqb8&feature=youtu.be Grammy® Award-Winning Recording Artist Tamela Mann and her husband, NAACP Image Award-Winning Actor and Comedian David Mann, are set to talk about their new book Us Against the World: Our Secrets to Love, Marriage, and Family and joint album Us Against the World: The Love Project on ABC’s Good Morning America (GMA). Tune-in to GMA on ABC Monday morning, January 14 when David and Tamela join the GMA team to discuss love, marriage, family and all the latest happening with the Manns. Bishop Emeritus Joseph Lawson Howze, the first black bishop to lead a diocese in the United States in the 20th Century, and founding bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Biloxi, died Wednesday at the age of 95. Howze became known as the top-ranking American black clergyman. He led and integrated an all-white parish in Raleigh, N.C., in the 1960s and was appointed president of the National Black Catholic Clergy in 1974, and introduced Pope John Paul II in a historic church gathering in New Orleans in 1987. He emphasized unity in God regardless of color. Black Enterprise President and CEO Earl "Butch" Graves Jr. and TDJ Enterprises CEO T.D. Jakes announced a partnership between the two prominent black-owned media and event companies, to present its inaugural SOAR! Empowerment Series of events which will kick off in Los Angeles, on Feb. 9, 2019 and was inspired by The New York Times best-selling book SOAR! Build Your Vision From The Ground Up by T. D. Jakes, SOAR, a one-day liftoff event series, is the perfect opportunity for those focused on maximizing their earning power, gaining optimal health, and spiritual well-being while creating multi-generational wealth. Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms officially welcomed the 20th Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration (SBGC) to Atlanta during a press conference today at City Hall with officials from the NFL, the Atlanta Super Bowl Host Committee, Boys & Girls Club of America and Radio One in attendance. Returning to Atlanta for its 20th anniversary, the concert will be taped in front of a live audience on Thursday, January 31, 2019 at Atlanta Symphony Hall during Super Bowl LIII week. National radio and tv personality Rickey Smiley is set to co-host the show, which will feature performances by Kirk Franklin, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, The Winans and the Super Bowl Gospel NFL Players Choir. More talent will be announced. The Super Bowl Gospel Celebration special will premiere exclusively on BET Networks on Saturday, February 2, 2019 at 8:00PM ET Black Twitter came for Marvin Sapp’s head this week and put him on blast for his continued support for controversial singer R. Kelly. According to Rolling Out, Sapp has a new song coming out with Kelly and many online users are not here for it — most especially after watching the disturbing Lifetime documentary series “Surviving R. Kelly.” Sapp claims he prayed about whether to release the song and decided to go forward with it. www.gospel-spotlight.com. GRAMMY®-winning R&B artist Thelma Houston will perform at the GRAMMY Museum®'s Clive Davis Theater for an intimate conversation and performance, moderated by Scott Goldman. An Evening With Thelma Houston will be held on Thursday, January 17, 2019 Los Angeles, CA. Perhaps best known for her number one international hit “Don’t Leave Me This Way,” Thelma Houston will share her inspirational journey that chronicles her illustrious career, by sharing intimate musical stories and behind-the-scenes adventures along with a very special acoustic performance, leading up to her iconic GRAMMY® Award–winning number one pop song "Don't Leave Me This Way." On this magical occasion, Thelma will also receive a replacement Grammy GRAMMY Award since her original GRAMMY was broken in the Northridge, California earthquake in 1994. Antioch Baptist Church North was packed on Monday, the day set aside to celebrate the life of the Rev. Cameron Madison Alexander. People came from all over this city and nation to honor him and see him off to his final resting place. The Rev. Joseph Lowery was there, seated near former Ambassador Andrew Young, civil rights icon C.T. Vivian and Congressman John Lewis attended. The Rev. Jesse Jackson, Atlanta City Councilmen Michael Bond and Andre Dickens, both members of Antioch and Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms were among those who spoke. “I stand here because of Cameron Madison Alexander,” the mayor told the crowd of thousands. Mayor Bottoms presented Alexander with the Phoenix Award, her first as mayor. “Generations will remember his legacy, and our city will forever hold him in our hearts,” she said. He is one of Gospel music’s most notable male vocalist with a five-octave range and has established himself as a prominent music industry mogul. He is a military veteran and has a philanthropic heart of gold. His acclaimed music artistry, dynamic ministry and humanitarian efforts has earned Dr. Earnest Pugh the title of Gospel’s Leading Man. Dr. Pugh is now commissioned to minister on a regular basis in his home town of Memphis, TN. Beginning March 3rd, Dr. Pugh will present WORD, WORSHIP and COMMUNION every first Sunday from 5-7PM at The Holiday Inn Suites, 5090 Copper Creed Rd, Millington, TN. Flashback Gospel Spotlight. Hear Earnest Pugh In His Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/earnestpugh_16DEC2015_intvw.mp3 The spiritual history of Pittsburgh’s black community will be on full display Jan. 19, when nonprofit Doors Open and local African Methodist Episcopal church officials partner to host a “ Ride with the King ” black history tour the Saturday before Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Bonnie Baxter of Pittsburgh got the idea for Doors Open after attending a similar event while living in Chicago. In October 2018, more than 50 buildings throughout Downtown were part of a Doors Open event. It offered the public an opportunity to take guided tours, attend lectures and view exhibits about the architecture of the buildings as well as what takes place inside. For the second consecutive year the African Pride Gospel Superfest will be recorded at the Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center in Dayton. This year, the show is proud to welcome African Pride as “Title Sponsor” for the upcoming Dayton, Ohio session and 19 TV season. "Our African Pride family is excited to partner with the Gospel SuperFest as their 2019 title sponsor," said Kendria Strong, African Pride Director of Marketing. Gospel music is a staple in many homes and communities that we serve, and we look forward to joining the Gospel SuperFest team for what will surely be an empowering celebration.” “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome African Pride as our title sponsor for 2019 and we have been blessed and very fortunate to remain relevant to our viewers, the gospel music fan-base and to corporate America,” says Bobby Cartwright, Jr. who is the show’s executive producer and founder. The Show will be hosted by Film and TV star Wendy Raquel Robinson. The African Pride Gospel Superfest live TV recording will go down, Saturday, June 22, 2019. On Jan. 21, 2019, the University of Redlands, a private liberal arts and professional university in Southern California, will welcome the "Beyoncé Mass" to its main campus. The worship service uses the music and life of Beyoncé as a tool to cultivate an empowering conversation about Black women — their lives, bodies, and voices — while creating an event with story, scripture, and song that calls for the liberation of all people. The event will make up a part of the commemoration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day at the University of Redlands, which will also include a series of community service gatherings and musical offerings. Created, led by, and based on the scholarship of, Reverend Yolanda Norton, the H. Eugene Farlough Chair of Black Church Studies and assistant professor of Old Testament at San Francisco Theological Seminary, the Beyoncé Mass drew about 1,000 people at its inaugural event at San Francisco's historic Grace Cathedral in April 2018. The initial public Beyoncé Mass included in its liturgy the use of Destiny Child's Survivor as an introduction to speak to the enduring spirit of Black women and the capacity for all people to overcome oppression and discrimination. Additionally, the service included readings and a sermon by Rev. Norton. Bishop T.D. Jakes, senior pastor of The Potter’s House in Dallas, Texas, rebuked a spirit of suicide from fellow megachurch Pastor John Gray on Saturday, just days after Gray revealed he had been contemplating suicide. “I literally thought about how I could end my life and still get to Heaven and somehow my kids would not be scarred but there was no way I could figure out how to do it. And I’m not the only person that thought about that. I’m not the only person the devil attacked in that area,” Gray said in a recording of his sermon to his church on New Year’s Eve posted to YouTube. Gray, who recently became pastor of Relentless Church in Greenville, South Carolina, after serving at Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church in Texas, has faced much public scrutiny in recent months for lavishing his wife with a $200,000 Lamborghini. He also admitted last summer to listening to voices that lured him away from his wife and his family and to being on the brink of getting a divorce. Dressed in all black attire, which he called “my funeral outfit,” he quipped that “2018 tried to kill me so I thought I’d try to dress for the occasion.” The Byron Cage 30 Years of Music Celebration Concert was a spirited success on Friday, December 21st. Some of gospel music's biggest names paid homage to the 7x Stellar Award winner and Grammy nominee. Performers to help celebrate included Bishop William Murphy, Ricky Dillard, Jonathan Nelson, Earnest Pugh, Dottie Peoples, Isaac Caree and Clifton Ross III. Guests also enjoyed surprise performances from Grammy winner Le'Andria Johnson and Stellar Award winner Micah Stampley. Installation Services was Sunday, January 6, 2019 in Jackson, Mississippi for the Rev. Jerry Mannery. He served as Executive Director of the Gospel Division Malaco/Savoy Music Group for over a decade, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Division, including promotion, production, artist relations, marketing and administration. He is also an accomplished songwriter," with over thirty (30) recorded songs to his credit. He is the founder of the Mississippi Children’s Choir, and a founding member of the Mississippi Mass Choir, where he has served as Executive Director since 1993 and one of its composers and producers. He has served on several music industries Board of Directors, including the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, the American Gospel Quartet Convention, and the Mississippi Musicians Hall of Fame. He is a voting member of The Grammy organization NARAS and served as Second Vice-President of the Memphis Chapter, as well as a 12-year stint on the Grammy’s National Screening Committee for Gospel Music. GRAMMY® Award-nominated and Stellar Award-Winning Pastor, William Murphy, returns with his new single, “Settle Here,” the first single lifted from his upcoming album. The vertical worship number is a yearning for God’s presence in the hearts of those who believe and serve him. "Settle Here" is the follow-up to William's "Everlasting God," which was a top Gospel Airplay single in January 2018. The new album, Settle Here, will be available early 2019. https://pec.smcdp-aws.net/welcome?key=0D66E464-43D3-451E-B2B1-649552354C5F GRAMMY® Award-winning maestro Donald Lawrence creates a powerful decree of freedom on his newly-released single withThe Tri-City Singers, “Deliver Me (This Is My Exodus)” (feat. Le’Andria Johnson). https://pec.smcdp-aws.net/welcome?key=C857AD57-CA78-69F5-B888-7C483942B09A Couples from Hip Hop’s elite will take a break from their lavish lifestyles of champagne, fancy cars and adoring fans to put the spotlight back on their relationships on an all-new “Marriage Boot Camp: Hip Hop Edition.” Premiering Thursday, January 10 at 10:00pm ET/PT on WE tv. Soulja Boy and Nia Riley, Waka Flocka and his wife Tammy Rivera, Lil’ Mo and her husband, boxer Karl Dargan, Jessica Dime and her fiancé, professional basketball player Shawne Williams and Lil’ Fizz of B2K Tiffany Campbell make a last-ditch effort to reignite the spark. Dr. Ish and Dr. V are back and upping their therapy game by pulling these couples straight outta hip hop and straight into the toughest two weeks they will endure to salvage their toxic relationships. Former President Barack Obama has debuted on Billboard’s Hot R&B Songs chart at number 22 with his gospel-inspired remix of a song by Lin-Manuel Miranda that originally appeared in the hit Broadway musical “Hamilton.” Obama’s “One Last Time (44 Remix)” dropped before Christmas as part of Miranda’s “Hamildrops” remixes and features cast member Christopher Jackson and gospel singer BeBe Winans. Last month Pastor John Gray came under fire for gifting his wife a Lamborghini SUV for their anniversary. Critics accused him of using church funds for the purchase, but Gray denied this, insisting he used cash earned from his reality TV show on OWN Network. Now rumors are swirling that he gave his wife, Aventer, the pricey vehicle to buy her silence after he cheated and fathered a child with his mistress. As noted by Sandra Rose, when Gray recently appeared on Atlanta’s “Sister Circle” daytime talk show, he claimed his wife “birthed” him so he could be the man he is today. “The wife that I chose is better than the man that I am,” Pastor Gray told Sister Circle hosts Rashan Ali and Syleena Johnson. GRAMMY® Award-winning maestro Donald Lawrence creates a powerful decree of freedom on his newly-released single with The Tri-City Singers,“Deliver Me (This Is My Exodus)” (feat. Le’Andria Johnson). Released to Gospel radio and available now at digital music providers, “Deliver Me (This Is My Exodus)” is the latest release from Lawrence’s upcoming new album Goshen, which also hails his reunion with the original Tri-City Singers. Marking over 25 years since the release of their beloved debut album "A Songwriter’s Point of View," Lawrence continues to blaze new trails in the sounds of Gospel as a prolific artist, music director, songwriter, and producer. Kierra Sheard kicks off the new year with brand new music video (for the first 2019 #TBT) for her fan favorite song, “Repin’ My God” (featuring Canton Jones). Produced by J. Drew Beats, “Repin' My God” is a fan favorite from Kierra's GRACELAND (2014) album. https://youtu.be/6So5O9-jKmU - The 50th NAACP Image Awards will air LIVE on TV One on March 30, 2019. For the first time ever, the telecast will take place from the Dolby Theater in Hollywood, California. The announcement was made today. The NAACP Image Awards celebrates the accomplishment of people of color in the fields of television, music, literature, and film and also honors individuals or groups who promote social justice through creative endeavors. The upcoming telecast, the 50th Anniversary of the NAACP Image Awards, will also spotlight the significant contributions of the NAACP and the impact the organization has had on our community and country. Nominations for the "50th NAACP Image Awards" will be announced February. AWARD WINNING KEKE PALMER VISITS "STEVE" ON MONDAY, JANUARY 7. She talks about new film "Pimp." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4HNINqnsbM&feature=youtu.be At the swearing-in of the 116th United States Congress today, nearly 100 new legislators will take the oath of office, pledging to “well and faithfully discharge” their new duties, “so help me God.” After last year’s campaign and midterm elections, the ceremony represents answered prayers for dozens of incoming evangelical politicians. Though the overall number of Christians in Congress fell slightly from 91 percent from 2017 to 88 percent in 2019, a vast majority of freshmen—78 of the 96 newly elected lawmakers—identify as Christian and around half—47—are Protestants, according to Pew Research Center’s Faith on the Hill report. With the largest freshman class since 2011, these representatives bring historic levels of diversity to Washington, a range of backgrounds outside politics, and deep convictions about faith in governance. The group includes Sunday school teachers, deacons, Christian college graduates, missions trip participants, prayer advocates, a former aspiring pastor, and plenty of churchgoers. Actress and outspoken Christian Letitia Wright was the highest box-office earning star of the year. Known for her supporting role in the 2018 record-breaking blockbuster hit “Black Panther,” Wright out-earned her action-hero cast members, according to Fandango new report. Being named the “highest box-office earning star” of the 2018 means that all of Wright’s film’s this year, drew a lot of people to the theater. The Guyanese-born British actress plays Princess Shuri, the little sister of King T’Challa — the main character of “Black Panther” in her breakout role. She then reprised the role in the film “Avengers: Infinity War,” and also appeared in “Ready Player One” and “The Commuter.” Wright managed to beat out her Marvel co-stars Chadwick Boseman, Winston Duke, Danai Gurira, Florence Kasumba and Sebastian Stan. The 25-year-old also surpassed Hollywood heavyweights, Samuel L. Jackson, Chris Pratt and Josh Brolin. Fandango’s “highest box office earning” list is calculated by how much money the actors’ movies made, not how much they were paid. Wright joked about that distinction on Twitter. “Dope dope,” she wrote, adding. “Just deposit that amount into my bank account.” Black Enterprise will present its highest honor in recognition of the achievements of black women when it presents the Women of Power Legacy Awards at the 2019 Women of Power Summit on Feb. 28, 2019, in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Women of Power Summit is the nation's No. 1 executive development and leadership conference for women of color, annually attracting more than 1,000 corporate executives, professionals, and businesswomen from across the country. The Women of Power Summit, hosted by ADP, will take place Feb. 28–March 3, 2019, at The Mirage Hotel and Casino. Honorees to be recognized at the 2019 Women of Power Summit Legacy Awards Gala, hosted by PepsiCo, include Chaka Khan, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Alice Walker and Cynthia Marshall. It's a NEW YEAR and Trin-I-Tee 5:7 is ?delivering NEW MUSIC! The super talented Trin-I-Tee 5:7 is back together again after 7 years to deliver an awesome new song entitled “GO”. Angel & Chanelle deliver an incredible anointed vocal performance on this cut. Gospel singer Vicki Yohe claims she engaged in premarital sex during a 16-month relationship with controversial Missouri Pastor David E. Taylor of Joshua Media Ministries International, whom she accuses of being a cult leader. Taylor responded by saying that Yohe’s claims are untrue, and that he has a “face to face” relationship with God and is under attack by demons. In a Facebook live video, Yohe said she began her relationship with the minister after he took her under his wing following the backlash she received for posting an Instagram meme of Jesus heading back to the White House after President Donald Trump was sworn in. Because of her predominantly black church following, Yohe was attacked and branded a “racist” by some. Many churches subsequently canceled ministry events with her, which led to her dependence on medication (a low dose of Adderall) to cope, she revealed in the video. She refrained from naming Taylor in the 25-minute video but followed the live clip by posting pictures of the two cozy together along with screenshots of seemingly late-night video chats. “He’s big with gifts, that’s what he does. He lavishes women with gifts,” Yohe said in the live video. “I got this Jaguar. I got $945 red bottoms two days ago, those ain’t going back.” Adrian Dove, President and CEO, Kingdom Day Parade, has as one of its mission, the nurture and preservation of Dr. King’s Dream by helping to sustain his mission of fighting ferociously for equality, love, and peace for Black and White and all other people as well. This fight’s primary weapons are aggressive non-violent action and love. The 34th Annual Kingdom Day Parade will be held on Monday, January 21, 2019 @ 10 AM in Los Angeles, CA. The Kingdom Day Parade passionately honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin King and has grown from humble beginnings into the largest and longest running Annual King Birthday Celebration in the nation! That’s why this years’ theme is “Healthy bodies, Healthy Minds, Healthy Democracy”. As multi-platinum selling and GRAMMY® winning group Casting Crowns prepares for this week’s release of a brand new studio album, Only Jesus, the group announces the Only Jesus Tour, a 37-city spring arena tour run featuring fellow Grammy winner Zach Williams and Austin French. The tour kicks off Feb. 21, in Richmond, Va., and travels to major markets in New Jersey, Massachusetts, Maine, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, Michigan, Illinois, Missouri, Georgia, Florida and more before wrapping up on May 4, in College Station, Texas. Join Billboard Music Award Winner and GRAMMY Nominated JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise for their LIVE Recording Monday, December 31st at 7:30 PM at City of Praise Family Ministries in Landover, MD. Doors open at 6:30 PM. Deion Sanders was at the prime of his life in the mid-late 90’s. He had won two Super Bowls and appeared in a World Series. He was rich, had become a father and even released an album. But as reported by The Undefeated in 1997, he drove his car off a cliff in an suicide attempt. “I was going through the trials and tribulations of life. I was pretty much running on fumes,” he said. “I was empty, no peace, no joy. Losing hope with the progression of everything.” Sanders recounted the suicide attempt in his autobiography “Power, Money & Sex: How Success Almost Ruined My Life.” He survived a 30- to 40-foot drop without any serious injuries. He then decided his life was worth living. “I finally just got on my knees and gave it all to the Lord,” he said. “Slowly, but surely, I had to deal with my faith, deal with my strength,” Sanders said. “I had to get a lot of Word in so that I could fight off the enemy. I wouldn’t be where I am today without my faith. People argue about what faith is, and who Jesus is, but it works for me. I’m not going to sit here and argue about who is what, and what is what, I’m just going to say it works for me.” Sherri Shepherd has opened up about how the Jehovah’s Witness religion broke up her family and caused her parents to divorce. She even recounts the time she was forced to stop speaking to her father because he dared to question some of the religion’s policies after she was punished by the church for committing a sin. “I was told as a young girl we had to stop talking to my dad even though he lived in our house,” Shepherd said in an interview with ABC News correspondent Paula Farish on the “Journeys of Faith” podcast. “He worked three jobs to take care of us and I remember my two sisters telling him, ‘We can’t talk to you anymore.’ I saw him breaking down and crying,” Shepherd said. According to the report, her father had been “disfellowshipped” from the religion because he was too inquisitive and not a true believer. Iconic Music Mogul Clive Davis announces a tribute concert honoring the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin taking place in January. The all-star tribute concert to the Queen of Soul, produced by Davis in conjunction with the Recording Academy is scheduled to be held in Los Angeles at the Shrine Auditorium on January 13. Hosted by Tyler Perry, the concert line up includes performances from Céline Dion, Patti LaBelle, Jennifer Hudson, John Legend, Kelly Clarkson, Alicia Keys, Janelle Monáe, SZA, Common, Alessia Cara, Yolanda Adams, Shirley Caesar, BeBe Winans, Brandi Carlile, Chloe X Halle and H.E.R. Americans’ view of the honesty and ethics of clergy has fallen to an all-time low in a ranking of different professions released by Gallup. The Gallup poll, conducted between Dec. 3-12 of 1,025 U.S. adults, found that only 37 percent of respondents had a “very high” or “high” opinion of the honesty and ethical standards of clergy. Forty-three percent of people gave them an average rating, while 15 percent said they had a “low” or “very low” opinion, according to the poll that was released on Dec. 21. Gallup noted that the 37 percent “very high” or “high” score for clergy is the lowest since it began asking the question in 1977. The historical high of 67 percent occurred back in 1985, and the score has been dropping below the overall average positive rating of 54 percent since 2009. Hip Hop Artist, Author, Pastor and Music Mogul Del Lawrence, aka "Mr. Del" has established himself as the 'Hope Dealer' and an innovator in the Christian/Gospel Rap genre. He is the pastor of the thriving City of Refuge Church in Memphis and as an artist has garnered Dove, Grammy and Stellar Award nominations. He started his own label, Dedicated Music Group (DMG), that develops new talent and pushes out multiple hard-hitting albums each year. DMG has released albums, singles and videos over the past 10 years from Mr. Del himself, Mali Music, Murk, D. McGhee, Fro and has orchestrated dynamic collaborations with Canton Jones, Pettidee, Uncle Reece, Kirk Whalum, Salt (of Salt-N-Pepa), Gangsta Boo, Hee-Sun Lee, Gospel Gangstaz and more. Mr. Del is now releasing his 10th career album called BLACK. The album theme underscores the continued racial division in music, specifically in Gospel and Contemporary Christian genres. TV One's latest original film, THREE'S COMPLICATED will premiere on Sunday, January 13, 2019 at 7 p.m. ET/6C, followed by encores at 9 p.m. ET/8C and 11 p.m. ET/10C. The project is executive produced by Shanola Hampton, who stars as the film's central character Deja, a 42-year-old divorcee who ends up in a precarious dating scenario with a younger man who may also be hooking up with her college-aged daughter. Also starring Tyler Lepley, Kyanna Simone Simpson and Charles Malik Whitfield, the film chronicles Deja's complicated love story and takes a humorous look at a so-called dating taboo: romantic liaisons between older women and younger men. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CfVM9xTU1bE&feature=youtu.be The mother of Trayvon Martin, Sybrina Fulton, was the 2018 commencement speaker at Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina this past weekend, where she was also presented with an honorary doctorate degree and a key to the city by Mayor Steve Benjamin. She took to Instagram moments after the ceremony to share her new title: “I present to you……Dr. Sybrina Fulton,” the caption read. “I went from the 2018 Commencement Convocation speaker at Benedict College to Doctor & I also received the key to the city from the Mayor of Columbia, SC.” Reports indicate that a church in Cape May, N.J., is being transformed into a museum honoring abolitionist and political activist Harriet Tubman. The Macedonia Baptist Church is converting the next-door home of its late pastor, the Rev. Robert Davis, into a museum scheduled to open in 2020. Local developers and business owners Robert Mullock and his son Zack are planning the project that is hoped to be a tourist attraction. Nearly $700,000 is reportedly needed to flood proof the building, which fell into disrepair 35 years ago. “It would be a permanent exhibit there so that people would understand and appreciate that this was part of Cape May at that time,” Mullock said in a televised interview. “At one time, the population of Cape May was 30 percent African-American, that’s what the records show.” See, this is what folks miss about Barack Obama being in the White House. The little, but important things he does. Such was the case on Wednesday when the former president visited a Washington, D.C. children’s hospital, wearing a Santa hat and carrying a bag of gifts. “Ho, ho, ho, Merry Christmas,” Obama said as he walked in, while turning on the charm along with the corny banter: “My reindeer were stuck in some snow and I just wanted to make sure I made the trip and had the chance to see all of you guys,” Mr. Obama said as he entered a playroom at Washington Children’s National Health System. “That’s the most important thing there is.” https://youtu.be/9g4eASYxJ6c Provident/Sony celebrates a GRAMMY® nomination for Tauren Wells, whose chart-topping single, “Known,” was nominated for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song. The 61st Annual GRAMMY® Awards will air live on the CBS on Sunday, Feb. 10, 2019. Tauren Wells’ current single, “Known,” finishes 2018 at #1 on the Christian Airplay Chart. “Known,” has reached #1 status on the HOT AC/CHR charts, AC Monitored chart and the overall Audience Chart. The powerful song has deeply connected with audiences around the world. Michael White has released his first holiday worship single "The Savior Is Here". The single is produced by Kevin Kelley (VaShawn Mitchell, Bishop Paul Morton, Donnie McClurkin, Prince of Peace Church), and arranged by Kelley and award winning musician Trent Phillips (Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Full Gospel BC Choir, Donnie McClurkin, Kevin Lemons). "The Savior Is Here" not only showcases Michael's songwriting, but also demonstrates his versatile and exceptional abilities as a soloist and worship leader. Michael is a Washington, DC native and has released two highly acclaimed albums CONQUEROR and SING OVER ME. He recently won the 2018 Rhythm of Gospel Award for Producer of The Year for SING OVER ME. Michael leads worship weekly as the Minister of Music at Reid Temple Church North Campus in Silver Spring, MD and at the Washington, DC Campus. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYLyOTw_xOk&feature=youtu.be The NCGAG Convention will go down June 12-14 in Charlotte NC! It will be the biggest planning meeting in NCGAG history! William Becton will be joining the NCGAG for the January 5th Planning Meeting in Charlotte! Charlotte NC is the place to be for a special Meet, Greet and Planning meeting for NCGAG National Convention June 12-14 in the Queen City at the University Place Hotel 10AM- 2PM. Jenifer Lewis penned a poetic tribute to Rihanna and Cardi B for refusing to perform during halftime at the Super Bowl in Atlanta in 2019. “The NFL and CBS really wanted Rihanna to be next year’s performer in Atlanta,” an insider told Us Weekly. “They offered it to her, but she said no because of the kneeling controversy. She doesn’t agree with the NFL’s stance.” “The offer and exposure would have been great for Rihanna as she’s planning a new album and tour but she stuck to what’s right in her eyes,” the Rihanna insider told Entertainment Tonight. In a video uploaded to Instagram, Lewis congratulated the singer and the rapper for declining an invitation to headline the halftime show at Super Bowl LIII. “My sincere congratulations to Rihanna and Cardi B for refusing to perform at halftime,” Lewis began. Then she recited her original composition, entitled “That’s Enough”. ZAYTOVEN & DEITRICK HADDON RELEASE HOLIDAY EP “GREATEST GIFT” New EP Available At All Major Digital Retailers. “Christmas Prayer” - https://youtu.be/ALktKFmYe6E During this season of the year when the world is focus on giving, Meet Apostle Veryl Howard who has made giving to others her mission. Hear Apostle Veryl Howrd In Her Own Words......http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/apostleverylhoward_intvw.htm Rapper and fashion guru Kanye West is crediting Chance the Rapper for helping reconnect him to his Christian faith, which is greatly impacting his family. “You have to see and feel how happy I am and how strong my family is,” West tweeted. “We are even stronger because of this through the love and grace of God.” “I need to speak about how Chance demanding that we record in Chicago reconnected me with my roots and also my faith in Jesus Christ,” he said. Over the summer, the two performers came together to create a joint album in a Chicago studio. Chance and West did not complete the album but apparently, their time together was an opportunity for Chance to share some of his faith with the controversial trailblazer enough to stir his faith back up. The Wallis Theater in Beverly Hills had record-breaking sales this week, primarily due to sales for “Love Actually Live,” currently being performed through December 31, that stars among others, Rumer Willis. One of the other stars of the show is B. Slade, who is showing what hard work, belief and determination can get you. In 2010, Tonex rebranded himself as B.Slade after being blacklisted by the gospel community because of an interview in which he admitted to being what can be called “sexually fluid” (an attraction to both sexes…minus the bisexual label). After his disclosure, all endorsements, contracts and scheduled appearances were cancelled and B. Slade was like a man without an island. His parents and both sets of grandparents had passed away and he was all alone and at rock bottom. There was nowhere to go … but up. That is when he decided to rebrand himself and begin his climb back up the ladder. Slade is enjoying being part of the “Love Actually Live” cast and shared he, “likes being a part of something that is so innovative and groundbreaking” and acknowledged the work involved to, “pull off bringing literally a movie to life.” Black Enterprise will present its highest honor in recognition of the achievements of black women when it presents the Women of Power Legacy Awards at the 2019 Women of Power Summit on will take place Feb. 28–March 3, 2019, at The Mirage Hotel and Casino. in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Women of Power Summit is the nation's No. 1 executive development and leadership conference for women of color, annually attracting more than 1,000 corporate executives, professionals, and businesswomen from across the country. Honorees to be recognized at the 2019 Women of Power Summit Legacy Awards Gala, hosted by PepsiCo, include the following outstanding achievers: Chaka Khan, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie and Alice Walker. Lunjeal Music Group celebrates GRAMMY® Award nominations for 21-year-old Jekalyn Carr whose album "One Nation Under God" received two nominations for Best Gospel Album and Best Gospel Song/Performance. These are Carr's second and third GRAMMY® nominations."One Nation Under God" recently won a GMA Dove Award for Traditional Gospel Album of the Year. The 61st Annual GRAMMY ® Awards will air live on the CBS Sunday, Feb. 10, 2019. Rickey Smiley reunites with Martin Lawrence and other comedy legends for the critically acclaimed "Lit AF Tour" on the final episode of TV One's RICKEY SMILEY FOR REAL, premiering Tuesday, December 18 at 8 p.m./7C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGVY7iBb0fg&feature=youtu.be Atlanta-based producer and songwriter Jeshua "TedyP" Williams - known for his production work within the R&B, Hip Hop and Gospel genres working with the likes of Pharrell, Jazzy Pha, Jermaine Dupri, Tank, Micah Stampley, Kierra Sheard, Rotimi, Casey J, Detrick Haddon and Bow Wow is celebrating two final round Stellar Gospel Music Award nominations for Producer of the Year alongside Marquis Boone for his work on Kelontae Gavin's "The Higher Experience live" album and praise and worship ensemble, Fresh Start Worship. Zaytoven & Deitrick Haddon have released their collaborative holiday EP, Greatest Gift. GRAMMY® Award-winning multi-platinum super producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Zaytoven and iconic gospel singer Deitrick Haddon unwrap seven smooth original Christmas anthems. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nVOwJQ8YFOs&feature=youtu.be Myyah Lockhart is a musician, songwriter, actor and minister who spent his childhood singing in church and becoming a savant on the alto saxophone. His musical journey is highlighted with a role as Drum Major in 20th Century Fox’s hit film Drumline, an appearance on Tyler Perry’s House of Payne and touring internationally to Italy and Switzerland. Myyah currently serves as a military pilot in the United States Air Force and from his growing passion for ministry is an ordained elder and the International Missions Director at his home church Judah Temple of Praise Church in Nashville, TN. Myyah Lockhart drops new single awesome Jesus.... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vNzxAqq0pys&feature=youtu.be Pastor John Gray of Relentless Church in South Carolina gifted his wife with a $200,000 Lamborghini after making what he described as a “faith deposit” for their wedding anniversary — and he’s been getting slammed on social media for it ever since. In an Instagram video “celebrating 8 years of marriage,” Gray presented wife Aventer with the keys to the vehicle while saying “Lamborghini Urus.” Criticism of the lavish purchase prompted the removal of the clip and the pastor responded to the backlash. “[Eight] years. New Beginnings. New hope. New life. And for her, a new whip. I put a faith deposit down in February and God helped me to make my wife’s dream come true. Why not? She’s made mine come true!” he wrote in an Instagram post Tuesday night. Donnie McClurkin is singing praises to “God and two angels” for saving his life after he passed out while driving Wednesday and was involved in a serious crash. “Was in a serious accident at 12:50am this morning…passed out while driving on the highway. Totaled the car…hospitalized, going through a myriad of tests…..,” McClurkin, who is the pastor of Perfecting Faith Church in Freeport, New York, announced in a statement on Facebook. “Lost consciousness driving…but two human angels followed my swerving car with their emergency blinkers onto stop traffic ….drove behind me until my car crashed into the middle concrete island. I remember none of it except those two angels pulling me out of the passenger’s side of the crumbled TOTALED car…airbags deployed…crushed metal and Fiberglas!! [Sic]” he continued. Sunday evening, Urban One hosted the inaugural URBAN ONE HONORS Awards show at The Anthem in Washington, DC. The star-studded show, hosted by D.L. Hughley, honored Jermaine Dupri, April Ryan, Brandy, Tom Joyner, Marvin Sapp, DJ Khaled, June Ambrose, Doc Walker, Shaun King, Benny Pough, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, Jade Novah, Dr. Nadia Lopez, Tracy Martin, Sybrina Fultonand Rotimi. Presented by MGM National Harbor and Radio One's Washington D.C. radio stations Majic 102.3 & 92.7, 93.9 WKYS, Praise 104.1, WOL 1450 & 95.9, Spirit 1340and The Team 980, the event was developed to acknowledge and honor individuals or organizations that have made an extraordinary impact on society and culture. The Chris Paul Family Foundation will celebrate the holidays this year taking 100 children, previously selected, from Boys & Girls Clubs, ElementarynSchools in the Triad, Forsyth County Parks and Recreation, the Agape Faith Church and Wonder Kids. (Due to his schedule, Chris Paul will not be attending.) The holiday shopping spree is an annual event for the Foundation. The goal is two-fold. Each child receives a $100 gift card which gives them a lesson on how to budget their money and they must purchase at least one gift for someone else. JUAN & LISA WINANS SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER IN ATLANTA WITH NEW ALBUM "A LITTLE SOUL FOR CHRISTMAS" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4vuZ6vFVy0&feature=youtu.be TAUREN WELLS VISITS "HOME & FAMILY" on behalf of his GRAMMY nominated single "Known" Wednesday, December 12, 2018 10am/9c on Hallmark Channel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbQ6Lfh5L14&feature=youtu.be The Christmas season is in the air and multiple award-winning singer, CeCe Winans, is riding on the heels of her double Grammy Award wins earlier this year for Let Them Fall in Love. Winans teamed up with her son, Alvin Love III, once again to deliver a beautiful contemporary collection of holiday songs on Something’s Happening! A Christmas Album that’s available at all music retail and digital outlets. The single “It’s Christmas” written by Alvin is and on the path to becoming a holiday favorite. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pHz42pN3Xbk On Sunday, CNN honored its Top 10 "Heroes" during a gala that was broadcast live from the American Museum of Natural History in New York. Dr. Robert J. Gore -- an emergency physician at Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn and founder of KAVI ("Kings Against Violence Initiative") -- was among the Heroes recognized for their work to improve the quality of life for people in their communities. Although he did not win "CNN Hero of the Year" (that honor went to Dr. Ricardo Pun-Chong), Dr. Gore was celebrated with a video tribute, presented by actor Omari Hardwick, that highlighted the efforts of KAVI to heal the violence among inner-city youth. https://www.msn.com/en-us/video/musicvideos/cnn-hero-dr-rob-gore/vi-AAwov6b Two weeks after drawing praise for allowing congregants in need to take cash directly from his offering baskets, Pastor John Gray of Relentless Church in Greenville, South Carolina, is drawing flak for gifting his wife a Lamborghini Urus for their eighth wedding anniversary celebration that left her screaming on Saturday. The Urus, with prices starting at about $200,000 in 2017, according to Fortune, has a 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine that produces 650 horsepower. It also boasts an automatic eight-speed transmission, can travel 0 to 62 miles per hour in 3.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 189 mph. California megachurch pastor Bishop Noel Jones has taken a dig at the black church for not fulfilling its role in the community. In an interview with The Philadelphia Tribune last Thursday at the Holy Ghost Headquarters Revival Center at the Met in Philadelphia, Jones, who leads the 20,000-member City of Refuge Church in Los Angeles, said the black church is waiting for the government to do ministry it should be doing. “We still have self-doubt, we still are killing each other at an alarming rate and it’s happening right in our communities. The prostitution, the drugs — all of the things that are negative are happening right around the church. It’s right down the street from us,” he said. “How do we address it? We stop looking to the government and we stop looking to everybody else to take care of us as if we are still slaves and we take the opportunity that is in front of us.” Chance the Rapper has announced he’s leaving the country to “learn the Word of God,” admitting that while he was raised in a Christian home, he’s mostly “unfamiliar” with the Bible. “I’m on a plane headed out the country on my first sabbatical,” the artist wrote in a recent Instagram post. “I’m going away to learn the Word of God which I am admittedly very unfamiliar with. I’ve been brought up by my family to know Christ, but I haven’t taken it upon myself to really just take a couple of days and read my Bible. We all quote scripture and tell each other what God likes and doesn’t like, but how much time do we spend as followers of Jesus to really just read and KNOW His Word. I’m definitely guilty of not devoting time to it.” Rickey Smiley returns to his alma mater Alabama State University with the "Rickey Smiley Morning Show" radio crew for homecoming on the next episode of TV One's RICKEY SMILEY FOR REAL, premiering Tuesday, December 11 at 8 p.m./7C. Rickey's a natural crowd-pleaser, commanding the stage with jam-packed jokes and high energy that is matched only by the hype crowd and marching band. Rickey interviews legendary group Bell Biv DeVoe and discusses the initial moment the R&B crooners hit super-stardom after branching off from New Edition. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8C-A5go6Lb0&feature=youtu.be The year of 2018 was another banner year for Tyscot Records nurturing established artists and propelling rising stars to higher platforms. Anthony Brown & group therAPy enjoyed another big year as the dynamic Washington, D.C. area group maintained its spot as the sixth most popular act of the year on Billboard Magazine’s Top Gospel Artists Charts. Footage Films Studio latest original film, "FALL GIRLS" will premiere on Saturday, January 12, 2019. The film stars Erica Peeples, Amara la Negra, Tami Roman, Erica Hubbard, Paris Phillips and Joely Fisher. FALL GIRLS is about Paige Davis who has just gotten promoted to president of sales at her job. Paige and her co-workers travel with their boss, Simone, to give her farewell speech. After an extravagant night of partying, Paige and her girlfriends hilariously wake up to a dead boss. The girls decide to dress up their boss and pretend she's still alive in an effort to close a major company deal, and save themselves from sure imprisonment. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5unyhQL8hkw RCA Inspiration has remained a dominating force in delivering new music and highlighting beloved favorites, with its releases garnering major honors across all of Billboard’s 2018 Year-End Charts for Gospel and Gospel Songwriting. Compiled from sales, airplay, streams, and other data measurements of performance on Billboard’s charts this past year, RCA Inspiration and its parent division Provident Label Group top the rankings on all Gospel label charts. Provident Label Group has been named #1 again on Billboard’s 2018 Year-End Charts for Top Gospel Labels, Top Gospel Album Labels and Hot Gospel Songs Labels. RCA Inspiration has been named #1 again on Billboard’s 2018 Year-End Charts for Top Gospel Album Imprints and Hot Gospel Songs Imprints, with Verity also named #4 on Top Gospel Album Imprints. Introducing new voices to Gospel as well as recognizing continued chart successes, for the albums and songs that have impacted fans the most – RCA Inspiration’s honors on Billboard’s 2018 Year-End Charts include – the debut Gospel albums from Koryn Hawthorne and Snoop Dogg, the latest projects and long-running treasured hits from Kirk Franklin, Marvin Sapp, Travis Greene, Jason Nelson, William Murphy and more on the Top Gospel Artists, Top Gospel Albums, Hot Gospel Songs, and Gospel Streaming Songs charts. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Nigerian Soul Singer-Songwriter TolumiDE announces the release of her highly anticipated acoustic album "Mama Sunshine" is out! The rising star, TolumiDE, is set to open for R&B Grammy-nominated duo - Les Nubians at Howard Theatre in Washington, DC on Saturday December 15th, 2018. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eftgu__DVGc New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, formerly led by the late Bishop Eddie Long, new leader Rev. Jamal-Harrison Bryant, pastor of Empowerment Temple in Baltimore preached his first sermon Sunday. The activist and sometimes controversial pastor will reportedly move to Lithonia, GA to take on his new duties. With the move he will be shifting from an African Methodist Episcopal congregation to a Baptist congregation. The release also stated that, “Rev. Dr. Jamal-Harrison Bryant embodies the rare balance of spiritual gifts and practical educational experiences that connects pastoral leadership and discipleship teaching with prophetic preaching and courageous social action. TV One's original film COINS FOR CHRISTMAS premieres Sunday, December 16 at 7 PM/6C. The film stars Stephen Bishop (Being Mary Jane), Essence Atkins (Marlon), TC Carson (Living Single), Kelly Price (Saints and Sinners) and Karlie Redd (Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNfuWSY2ITA&feature=youtu.be Tyler Perry served as commencement speaker for The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls (OWLAG) 7th graduating class last Saturday. Mr. Perry addressed the girls and their families, speaking to the importance of being chosen to have the opportunity to attend OWLAG: “Before the ceremony this morning, I spoke to Ms. Winfrey and asked her how she chose the girls. She said she looks for something special, something that sparkles and is unique. Today that is all I saw. I saw all the hope, brilliance and intelligence. Being the chosen one is special and wonderful. It gives you the opportunity to strive and go higher and do things that you would have not had the chance to do.” Two GRAMMY Nominations with Incredible & Ground-Breaking World Music Sensations. Singer/Songwriter, Guitarist & Visionary FATOUMATA DIAWARA & Two Time GRAMMY Winners SOWETO GOSPEL CHOIR . Fatoumata Diawara's FENFO and Soweto Gospel Choir's FREEDOM are both nominated in the Best World Music Album Category. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gmGL5SqhaY Fred "Uncle Freddie" Jerkins III, President of DarkChild Gospel, new cancer awareness project, “A Project of Healing ,” continues to make waves at Gospel radio. The album, “A Project of Healing,” encompasses fourteen songs of Faith, Hope and Victory to help those who have been impacted by the disease Cancer. The projects second single, “Victory” featuring duo, Last Call, enters at #1 on the Billboard Gospel. Hear Last Call In Their Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/lastcall_intvw.htm Nominations for the 61st Annual Grammy Awards were announced with the following artists receiving nominations in the Gospel and Contemporary Christian Music categories: Best Gospel Performance/Song YOU WILL WIN -Jekalyn Carr; Allen Carr & Jekalyn Carr, songwriters WON’T HE DO IT-Koryn Hawthorne NEVER ALONE-Tori Kelly Featuring Kirk Franklin; Kirk Franklin & Victoria Kelly, songwriters CYCLES-Jonathan McReynolds Featuring DOE; Jonathan McReynolds, songwriter A GREAT WORK-Brian Courtney Wilson; Aaron W. Lindsey, Alvin Richardson & Brian Courtney Wilson, songwriters Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song RECKLESS LOVE-Cory Asbury; Cory Asbury, Caleb Culver & Ran Jackson, songwriters YOU SAY-Lauren Daigle; Lauren Daigle, Jason Ingram & Paul Mabury, songwriters JOY-for KING & COUNTRY; Ben Glover, Matt Hales, Stephen Blake Kanicka, Seth Moslely, Joel Smallbone, Luke Smallbone & Tedd Tjornhom, songwriters GRACE GOT YOU-MercyMe Featuring John Reuben; David Garcia, Ben Glover, MercyMe, Solomon Olds & John Reuben, songwriters KNOWN-Tauren Wells; Ethan Hulse, Jordan Sapp & Tauren Wells, songwriters Best Gospel Album ONE NATION UNDER GOD-Jekalyn Carr HIDING PLACE-Tori Kelly MAKE ROOM-Jonathan McReynolds THE OTHER SIDE-The Walls Group A GREAT WORK-Brian Courtney Wilson Best Contemporary Christian Music Album LOOK UP CHILD-Lauren Daigle HALLELUJAH HERE BELOW-Elevation Worship LIVING WITH A FIRE-Jesus Culture SURROUNDED-Michael W. Smith SURVIVOR: LIVE FROM HARDING PRISON-Zach Williams The Grammy Awards take place on February 10th Entertainment One Nashville celebrates it’s Vice President & General Manager of Urban Inspirational Music, Gina Miller, as she receives recognition from Billboard as one of the most powerful executives in the music industry. Billboard’s annual celebration of more than 120 female industry leaders, veterans and next-gen talents was announced this week via Billboard.com. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Entertainment One celebrates GRAMMY® Award nominations for Jonathan McReynolds, whose “Make Room” received two nominations for Best Gospel Album and Best Gospel Song/Performance. The 2018 GRAMMY ® Award nominations were announced today. The 61st Annual GRAMMY ® Awards will air live on the CBS on Sunday, Feb. 10, 2019. TV One's original LIVING BY DESIGN HOLIDAY SPECIAL premieres Sunday, December 9 at 7 PM/6C. For the first time ever, brother/sister duo Jake and Jazz Smollett are inviting cameras to follow them for this exclusive LIVING BY DESIGN HOLIDAY SPECIAL. The pair will recreate down home recipes and make kicked up cocktails with celebrity guest, Grammy-nominated singer Ledisi. To really top things off, Jazz will share amazing concepts for setting a table, as well as create DIY serving trays and other entertaining ideas from scratch. Whether you're looking for new dishes, or suggestions for adding some pop to your holiday party, Jake and Jazz have you covered! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALobtEh_1EU&feature=youtu.be RCA Inspiration celebrates two GRAMMY® Award nominations in the categories of Best Gospel Performance/Song and Best Gospel Album for the 61st GRAMMY® Awards, with nods from Koryn Hawthorne and The Walls Group. Koryn Hawthorne garners her first-ever GRAMMY® Award nomination, with “Won’t He Do It” nominated for Best Gospel Performance/Song. The Walls Group are nominated for Best Gospel Album for their The Other Side marking their third career GRAMMY® nomination. Additionally, multiple GRAMMY®winning Kirk Franklin receives his 23rd career GRAMMY® nomination for his featured performance with Tori Kelly on “Never Alone,” which is nominated for Best Gospel Performance/Song. The headline says it all. Seriously, nobody, if they’ve been paying attention, can say they didn’t see this coming. In fact, we dare say, some folks (Michelle’s fans) have been praying for this moment. Yes, Michelle Williams and pastor Chad Johnson are dunzo. Michelle made the announcement in an Instagram Story post on Friday morning — the same day she dropped her new single, “Fearless.” “I still remain fearless,” she wrote in simple white text on a black background. “I guess I still remain single! Things didn’t work out. The healing that needs to take place is a must! I don’t wanna destroy another relationship. Blessings to him, his family and ministry. #FEARLESS” Tyler Perry is feeling festive and generous ahead of Christmas so he has spread the holiday cheer at two Atlanta-area Walmart stores where the movie mogul paid off more than $430,000 in layaway items. “Trying to do this anonymously but, um, due to some circumstances y’all know how nothing stays secret these days,” he explained in a video. “So, I just wanted to go ahead and tell you.” Perry explained, “If you have a layaway at the Walmart at 844 Cleveland Avenue in East Point, Georgia — in Atlanta — or if you have a layaway at the Walmart at 7001 Concourse Parkway in Douglasville, Georgia — if you have a layaway at either place and it was in there as of 9:30 this morning, — I have paid for all of your layaways for Christmas.” Motown Gospel celebrates GRAMMY® Award nominations for Brian Courtney Wilson, whose critically acclaimed album A GREAT WORK received two nominations for Best Gospel Album and Best Gospel Song/Performance. The 2018 GRAMMY ® Award nominations were announced today. Multiple GRAMMY®, Stellar, and Dove Award-winning Gospel icon Donnie McClurkin releases a two-song gift bringing holiday tidings, with “My Favorite Things” and “Some Children See Him.” Newly recorded by McClurkin, the two holiday singles are available now at all digital music providers. BET Networks is set to premiere “A THOUSAND WORDS WITH MICHELLE OBAMA” on Wednesday, December 5 at 9PM ET. “A THOUSAND WORDS WITH MICHELLE OBAMA” is an empowering new one-hour special featuring former First Lady Michelle Obama in candid conversation with former Senior Advisor to President Barack Obama Valerie Jarrett at the Leading Women Defined symposium at the St. Regis hotel in Miami, FL. The women discuss a range of topics as Michelle Obama shares words of uplift, stories of sisterhood, the importance of self-care and her marked growth through her husband’s eight years in office. Former “Today” show host Tamron Hall has inked a new licensing deal with Disney and Hearst Television that will see her upcoming syndicated daytime talk show reach 50 percent of U.S. television households. Set to debut next fall, the show will reportedly appear in 24 different markets, including WCVB-TV Boston, WMOR-TV Tampa, WESH-TV Orlando, KCRA-TV Sacramento, WTAE-TV Pittsburgh, WBAL-TV Baltimore, KMBC-TV Kansas City, WLWT-TV Cincinnati, WISN-TV Milwaukee and WPBF-TV West Palm Beach, among others. Comedian Kevin Hart announced that he’s officially set to host the 91st Academy Awards ceremony. The actor is emceeing for the first time and succeeds Jimmy Kimmel, who has hosted the last two Academy Awards. “I will be sure to make this years Oscars a special one,” the comedian wrote Tuesday in an Instagram post, adding, “now it’s time to rise to the occasion.” “For years I have been asked if I would ever host the Oscars and my answer was always the same…I said that it would be the opportunity of a lifetime for me as a comedian and that it will happen when it’s suppose to,” he wrote. “I am so happy to say that the day has finally come for me to host the Oscars. I am blown away simply because this has been a goal on my list for a long time….To be able to join the legendary list of hosts that have graced that stage is unbelievable.” G.I. have worked for years to become one of the biggest male urban gospel groups on the scene today. It’s hard to believe that in 1998, 20 years ago in Richmond VA, 3 brothers/high school friends formed this group that would minister, inspire, and bless lives all over the world. It is rare that any group, in any genre, would last 20 months, let alone 20 years. When asked what is the secret to their longevity, group member Branden Anderson says… “Love, patience, prayer and teamwork. You have to sacrifice, and be considerate of your other group members. We’ve seen them come and go, and I believe that’s why we are still here.” Not only are they still existing, but they are thriving! Their new hit single “I’m Ready” is doing well on the Gospel Airplay Charts, The trio is preparing for their big 20 Year Celebration Concert scheduled to go down Saturday December 15 at Speaking Spirit Ministries in Richmond. Flashback Gospel Spotlight....Hear G.I. In Their Own Words....https://www.gospel-spotlight.com/GI.htm In the nearly two years since the death of Bishop Eddie Long of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Georgia, the late megachurch preacher’s eldest child, Edward Long, has quietly dealt with the pain of being repeatedly overlooked as his father’s successor. In a parabolic sermon on Sunday, a day Long described as the “toughest Sunday of my life,” the minister and elder at New Birth came clean with his congregation. “I thought that I was dealing with depression for the past two years because I kept getting looked over and looked over and looked over. Why is it that I get more love from the outside than the inside? But then I read what Jesus said,” Long revealed on Facebook. It was a week before the church is expected to welcome controversial Baltimore megachurch Pastor Jamal Bryant as their newest senior pastor on Dec. 9. Bryant’s appointment begins months after Bishop Stephen A. Davis, who took over leadership of New Birth shortly after Bishop Long’s death, resigned from the church in June. Tyscot Records and its affiliated artists and label partners have earned a combined 27 Stellar Gospel Music Award nominations on the final Stellar Awards ballot for the 34th annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards which take place Friday, March 29, 2019 at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, NV. Leading Tyscot’s nominations – with 9 – is 19-year-old South Carolina native, Kelontae Gavin, who has been the talk of the gospel music industry over the last year with his dynamic radio smash, “No Ordinary Worship,” which has amassed millions of streams and currently sits in the Top Ten on the Gospel Airplay chart. Cheryl Fortune, who has spent years in the background of the music industry as a songwriter of No. 1 hits and a vocal arranger, stepped forward as a soloist this year. Her debut album, “Simply Cheryl,” brings 7 nods, including the coveted New Artist of the Year. Other Tyscot-affiliated artists receiving nods are Tyscot Records founder, Bishop Leonard Scott, Vashawn Mitchell, Bishop Noel Jones, Javen and C West. BET's Sunday Best Season 6 Top 3 finalist Tyler Little has signed a multi-album deal with Dream Label Group in partnership with Atlanta-based Platform Agency. Tyler Little's, debut single "We Come To Praise Him" is available now for purchase and streaming on all digital outlets. Produced by Mod-G, Chris Adams and Elvin McCollum, and written by ASCAP Award Winning and GRAMMY-nominated songwriter Travis Malloy, "We Come To Praise Him" is a powerful gospel track filled with celebration, hope and affirmation of the promise of God's glory. Tyler Little is set to make an appearance on The WORD Network next month and is slated for an upcoming tour and full-length debut album release Summer 2019. Revival, an imaginative retelling of the gospel according to John the Apostle featuring original and contemporary gospel music will hold it’s world premier Dec. 4th at The Museum of The Bible, 400 4th Street SW, Washington, DC. The evening will begin with a VIP cocktail reception and red carpet, followed by performances featuring the film’s stars in advance of the evening’s screening. Revival! opens Dec. 7 in theaters in New York, Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia, Miami, Houston, Detroit, Dallas and Los Angeles. In January, it will expand to screens in Memphis, Baltimore, New Orleans, Norfolk, St. Louis, San Francisco, Cleveland, Orlando, Boston, Tampa, Indianapolis and Milwaukee. The all-star cast includes 10-time Grammy winner Chaka Khan, Michelle Williams of Destiny’s Child, Siedah Garrett, Mali Music, T’Keyah Crystal Keymah, Dawnn Lewis, Niki J. Crawford, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Paula Newsome, Victoria Tilford and Chester Gregory. Karen Clark Sheard appeared on her daughters Vlog "Katching Kierra" where she is showing Kierra how to make her Baked Mac and Cheese. A different side of Karen Clark Sheard. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-FB_91eJ9HM Urban One has announced the honorees for the inaugural URBAN ONE HONORS Awards show, set for December 9, 2018 at The Anthem in Washington, DC. The show will be hosted by DL Hughley. Urban One Honors is presented by MGM National Harbor and Radio One’s Washington D.C. radio stations Majic 102.3 & 92.7, 93.9 WKYS, Praise 104.1, WOL 1450 & 95.9, Spirit 1340 and The Team 980, and was developed to acknowledge and honor individuals or organizations that have made an extraordinary impact on society and culture. This year’s honorees include: Rapper/Producer, Jermaine Dupri, Living Legend Award; Singer/Actress, Brandy, Cathy Hughes Excellence Award; Fashion Stylist, June Ambrose, Fashion Icon Award; Singer, Teyana Taylor, R&B Impact Award; Media Mogul, Tom Joyner, Lifetime Achievement Award; Gospel Artist, Marvin Sapp, Inspirational Impact Award; Former NFL Player, Doc Walker, Sports Legend Award; Activist/Columnist Shaun King, Social Change Agent Award; Music Executive, Benny Pough, Record Executive of the Year Award; Congresswoman, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Public Servant Award; Singer, Jade Novah, Viral Sensation; Principal, Dr. Nadia Lopez, Education Maven; and Actor, Rotimi, Generation Next Award. Marvin Sapp and K-Ci of Jodeci are set to perform, with LA Reid, Da Brat, Bryan Michael Cox, Ray J, Roland Martin and Q Parker among the presenters. Bible Archaeology, Search & Exploration Institute (BASE) claim there is strong evidence that the Old Testament’s ark’s resting place is in Ethiopia.The Ark of the Covenant is one of the most sought after relics from the Bible, being the trunk said to contain the Ten Commandments handed down to Moses on Mount Sinai. It is said the chest is made of wood and covered in gold, containing the two stone tablets along with other paraphernalia from the Bible. Ethiopia has long had a connection to the Ark, with Christians in the country outright claiming to be the current holders of the relic with it under guard at the Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion. BASE archaeologists have claimed there is “compelling evidence” that the Ark was in fact taken to Africa by ancient Jews as it was sailed down the Nile. Biblical scholars mounted an expedition to Ethiopia as they believe the Ark was taken there after being shipped out of Israel to Egypt.BASE do not 100% claim to have uncovered the Ark, but said the research has “strong potential”.It said: “Although the subject is controversial and clouded with confusion, one emerging theory indicates that the Ark of the Covenant was transported out of ancient Israel and may be in Ethiopia today. Major life transitions are abound for the RICKEY SMILEY FOR REAL crew as Rickey celebrates his 50th birthday, DJ starts college and Juicy settles into her new home on the next episode of TV One's RICKEY SMILEY FOR REAL, premiering Tuesday, December 4 at 8 p.m./7C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HbAtk1kGV20&feature=youtu.be Meet a blessed R&B Artist on fire for the Lord. His biggest hit is "Why I Love You." Other hits are "Honest" and "Better With You In It." Hear Major In His Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/major_intvw.htm A Stone Cold Christmas, Bounce's first originally-produced movie, reached more than 1.4 Million Viewers in its premiere night airings on Sunday, Nov. 25. The 9:00 p.m. (ET) premiere of A Stone Cold Christmas delivered 468K Total Viewers posting whopping increases of +60%I n Household delivery, +92% in the delivery of Persons 18-49 and +70% in P25-54. The audience grew throughout the program with viewing peaking at 565K Total Viewers. A Stone Cold Christmas encored later in the evening (1:00 a.m. ET/10:00 p.m. PT) averaging 264K Total Viewers and growing HHs by +13%with similar strong increases among P18-49 (+31%) and P25-54 (+27%). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1YUu3z3fmM&feature=youtu.be TV One's original film MERRY WISHMAS premieres Sunday, December 2 at 7 PM/6C, encore at 9 P.M. ET/8C. Directed by veteran actress Terri J. Vaughn, the filmstars Tamela Mann (The Manns), David Mann (The Manns), Kim Fields (Living Single), Towanda Braxton (Braxton Family Values), Chrystale Wilson (The Players Club) and Elizabeth Omilami (Madea's Family Reunion). Todd Dulaney has had an amazing year! He presented a new album to the world, and a #1 single at radio for 8 weeks thanks to you all! But he hasn’t stopped there. He is back with new music that he recorded in South Africa earlier this year. A new anthem for the body of Christ that reminds believers that God will do it all again. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sD9_exmnpj0&feature=youtu.be TV One's latest original film, THREE'S COMPLICATED will premiere on Sunday, January 13, 2019 at 7 P.M. ET/6C. The project stars Shanola Hampton (Shameless), Tyler Lepley (The Haves and The Have Nots), Kyanna Simone Simpson (The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks) and Charles Malik Whitfield (The Temptations). THREE'S COMPLICATED, executive produced by Shanola Hampton, chronicles the complicated love story of Deja (Hampton), a 42-year-old divorcee who has just been passed over for a promotion. After a night out at the bar, Deja ends up having a weekend fling with Sonny (Lepley) - a young, attractive man ten years her junior. She later discovers her fling is also dating her daughter Eleni (Simpson). Deja struggles to control her attraction to him and protect her daughter's heart, who is head over heels for her new beau. Meanwhile, Deja's ex-husband Craig (Whitfield) re-enters the picture seeking a reconciliation. Conflicted and uncertain, Deja finds herself in a complex love triangle that brings her to the brink of heartbreak. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wbcaYANtM8Q&feature=youtu.be On November 12 at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, more than 15,000 people came together under the banner of peace. This diverse and multi-religious gathering came together as one unified body calling for peace and unity for America and the world. Praise and worship icon Israel Houghton roused the audience into a praise and worship frenzy. Not to be outdone, Grammy-award winning Bishop Hezekiah Walker and the Love Fellowship Choir, from Brooklyn, lifted the spirit even higher with ";Souled Out" and his international anthem "Every Praise." This was followed by an inspirational message by Bishop Noel Jones of the City of Refuge Church in Los Angeles, who challenged the audience to find the peace within. The evening was closed out by Grammy-award winning superstar Yolanda Adams who left the crowd in awe and excited about spreading the mission of peace. Tune in to the Empowerment Encounter on The Word Network with host Jamal Bryant Tonight 11/28 at 8:30P ET to hear H.B Charles Jr. perform "I'll Fly Away" live! Erica Campbell interviewed former First Lady Michelle Obama on “Get Up Mornings With Erica Campbell.” This interview will be the second time Mrs. Obama appears on the radio show, and the two will chat about the First Lady’s new book, “Becoming.” The in-depth interview will air tomorrow morning at 8:00 AM EST/ 7:00 AM CST. Fans can also stream the show live via the Get Up Mornings With Erica Campbell mobile app and on the official website https://getuperica.com/ Anthony Faulkner is an award-winning International Urban Inspirational Artist who writes, arranges and produces Gospel and Inspirational music. Anthony recently added another international music honor to his credits: The PraiseTek Gospel Music Award - International Legacy Award. PraiseTek Awards where handed out in London this October with Anthony in attendance to receive his award. After taking this year to tour across the globe, Anthony closes out 2018 with a new holiday single. Anthony has written and released his first Christmas single "This Time of Year". https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FaOcw6Ekr7M&feature=youtu.be BET Networks is set to premiere “Q85: A Musical Celebration for Quincy Jones,” a star-studded evening that celebrates the life and legacy of the icon. The special was taped in September at the Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles, and will premiere on BET Networks on Sunday, December 9, 2018 at 8:00PM ET. The evening will explore Quincy the hit maker, contributions to film & television, work as a humanitarian, his contributions to jazz, and success as a producer, highlighting his relationship with Michael Jackson. Performers such as Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight, Brian McKnight, John Legend, Gloria Estefan, Emily Estefan, Fantasia, Charlie Wilson, Jennifer Hudson, Ne-Yo, Meghan Trainor, Patti Austin, Yolanda Adams, Ledisi, Cynthia Erivo, and Gregory Porterall hit the stage to pay tribute to Mr. Jones performing his classic works. Additionally, Oprah Winfrey, Will Smith, Danny Glover, Usher Raymond, Dave Chappelle, LL Cool J, Rashida Jones, Ludacris, and Aloe Blacc shared their personal stories of how Quincy has impacted them throughout the years. Will Downing is a walking, singing testimony of the power of faith and prayer. And he delivers on his promise with his new CD, THE PROMISE, an inspirational album-actually his first gospel album — to be released November 30, 2018 by Shanachie Entertainment. Though THE PROMISE will likely be categorized as a gospel album or a “praise-and-worship” album and while those elements are there, such categorization misses the larger intent. The album is Downing’s heartfelt 10-song thank you letter to God for bringing him back from the edge of darkness into His marvelous light. Weeks after Alaina Housley died in the Nov. 7 mass shooting at the Borderline Bar & Grill in Thousand Oaks, California, which left at least 12 people dead, Tamera Mowry-Housley returned to The Real on Monday, where she reflected on her niece’s life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bmls32BXyvE Featuring the #1 hit single “Emmanuel” (one of the top selling Christmas CDs of all-time), Stellar & Dove nominee Norman Hutchins is featured on the nationally-televised holiday special "A Gospel Christmas". With guest appearances by Lala Hathaway, Martha Wash, Jaime Grace, South Africa's Just 6, Norman Hutchins and more, "A Gospel Christmas" is celebrating its 20th year on the air. Flashback Gospel Spotlight....Hear Norman Hutchins In His Own Words.....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/hutchins02.htm RonReaco Lee visits "THE REAL" Wednesday, November 28, 2018 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mcxl_VTIg08&feature=youtu.be Chicago native Jeff Robinson is a IT Professional, Ministry Leader, Certified John Maxwell Coach, Teacher andSpeaker, Content Creator and Event Producer, Jeff has over 25 years of service to youth, small businesses, churches and communities sharing his expertise and inspiring people to live a life of purpose. He is noted for his popular I.M.A.C. Conferences - (The Institute for Ministry, Arts & Cultivation Conference). With a vision to create more servant leaders, ambitious youth, visionaries and dreamers, Jeff has now unified his companies into one conglomeration called The JRob United Group. His new parent company will house all of his existing organizations including:I.M.A.C. Conferences International, Jet Foundation Incorporated and the newest addition The Cultivation Hub Podcast. The Cultivation Hub Podcast officially launches today (November 26) and can be listened to and downloaded via iTunes, Google Play,Spotify and Stitcher. The Cultivation Hub Podcast is a 24/7 access digital media platform designed to be a channel for Inspiration and Education. Marvin Sapp recently celebrated a milestone anniversary, as he marked 30 years since accepting his call to preach. He also celebrated 15 years as pastor of Lighthouse Full Life Center. These milestones are reached as the second single off of his latest, Dove and Stellar Award winning release “Close”, advances to the top of Gospel Radio Airplay Charts. The dazzling ballad, “Listen”, is the #3 reframes the adage that God is trying to tell you something with modern day lingo as the singer imparts: “Hold up "Shhhhh…Listen" I know you’ve got your own plan / But He’s got a better one.” 2018 has been an exceptional year for Sapp, whose ministry has taken him around the world while accolades and acknowledgements continue to pour in. Over the last two months alone, Sapp has been to Africa and Europe two times each for preaching and singing engagements. He was also won the Traditional Gospel Album of the Year category at the recent Dove Awards, was honored at the 2018 Gospel Music Honors, and is set to receive the Inspirational Impact Award at the inaugural Urban One Honors being held in Washington, D.C. this December. John P. Kee really knows how to throw a party. Recently, the legendary artist threw a concert celebrating the 70th birthday of his mentor and icon, Bishop Rance Allen. Kee hosted Jason Nelson, Yolanda DeBerry, Isaiah Templeton, Shawn Bigby and Zeeksong for a spirited and packed-out concert at his New Life Fellowship Church in Charlotte, NC. For those artists who couldn't appear in person, they sent greetings via Instagram. Korean Seoul, serenaded Bishop Allen with an a cappella rendition of the signature tune, "Something About the Name Jesus." Multiple re-postings of the video have amassed over 150,000 views: Kirk Franklin, who wrote the song, wrote on his IG wall, "the greatest opportunity of my life was to work with you sir. Forever grateful for what you made this song become."The original and various re-recordings of the song by The Rance Allen Group have earned over 50 million streams. Gospel Spotlight Flash Back. Hear Rance Allen In His Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/rance_intvw.htm ; Ernest Pugh, who is best-known for hits such as “Rain on Us” and “I Need Your Glory,” celebrated his 52nd birthday on Black Friday, November 23rd. He’s launching an exciting new radio program on the weekends. The new show, “On the Couch with Dr. Pugh at the Worship Leader’s Lounge” launched with a special broadcast this Sunday, November 25th on Richmond, VA’s 105.3 FM The Choice (WQCN) radio station. The show will air each Saturday at 1PM ET with a 5 PM ET rebroadcast on Sundays. Oprah Winfrey's mother, Vernita Lee, died on Thanksgiving Day. She was 83. In a statement to People, a spokesperson for Winfrey, says her mother has already been laid to rest at a private funeral. Vernita Lee worked as a housekeeper for a good portion of her life. She is survived by Winfrey and daughter Patricia Amanda Faye Lee, who she gave up for adoption at birth and reconnected with later in life. Lee also had two other children — son Jeffrey Lee, who died in 1989 and daughter Patricia Lee Lloyd, who died in 2003. Grammy® award-winning producer, Zaytoven and Grammy® nominated artist, Deitrick Haddon and are spreading holiday cheer this season as they announce their collaboration on a new EP titled “Zaytoven & Deitrick Haddon Greatest Gift,” available December 7, 2018 on all major digital music retailers. The eight track EP is lead by the critically acclaimed single, "Christmas Prayer," and the viral hit, "Make Love." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xTS2EqYmg00&feature=youtu.be New Haven Records announced that celebrated television and Broadway personality Kathie Lee Gifford recently taped an episode of the Daytime Emmy Award-winning Dr. Oz Show that is scheduled to air on November 26, 2018. The interview spotlighted her new children’s book, “The Gift That I Can Give” and her recent New Haven Kids’ project, the Gospel Music Association Dove Award-nominated musical The Little Giant, which is based on the biblical story of David and Goliath. Kathie Lee, the three time Emmy-winning co-host of the fourth hour of TODAY with Hoda Kotb, taped two segments for Dr. Oz. In her interview, she shares that God had already given the young shepherd boy everything he needed to defeat Goliath. David had a relationship with a living God, not a religion. Kathie Lee then compares the story of David with her new children’s book. “The Gift That I Can Give” illustrates that we're all made with special gifts from God that are unique to each of us. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VO_dNnfnapc&t=19s Rickey Smiley hits the stage to emcee the "Black Music Honors" special on the next episode of TV One's RICKEY SMILEY FOR REAL, premiering Tuesday, November 27 at 8 p.m./7C. It's lights, camera, action at the "Black Music Honors," a Nashville-based event highlighting influential artists and musicians. Before the show, Rickey gives pointers to aspiring talent D'Essence, before she conducts red carpet interviews. Her first round of interviews prove challenging as she stumbles through her questions with honoree Bobby Brown, leading to an awkward red carpet moment. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdOVo4oHYt4&feature=youtu.be KAREW Entertainment, home of the Grammy Award winning Clark Sisters and multiple award winners Karen Clark Sheard and Kierra Sheard, are excited to announce the release of their brand-new Christmas album, “J. Drew Presents…A Karew Family Christmas,” this Thanksgiving holiday. The album features six brand-new original songs produced by the label CEO, J. Drew Sheard. The urban inspirational project is an instant must-have for any holiday music collection. “J. Drew Presents…A Karew Family Christmas” will be available at all major digital music retailers this Thanksgiving. Baltimore pastor Jamal-Harrison Bryant Monday was named the new senior pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. One hundred thirty-eight candidates were considered for the high-profile position, eventually, the list was whittled down to only two. The announcement, made from the pulpit of the DeKalb County church, was met with applause and a few gasps. Bryant a Morehouse graduate is currently pastor of Empowerment Temple in Baltimore. Bryant will deliver his first official sermon as New Birth's pastor on Dec. 9. The search for a new senior pastor was launched shortly after Bishop Stephen A. Davis, who also pastors a church in Birmingham, Ala., resigned in June. Davis assumed the helm of the megachurch after the death of Bishop Eddie L. Long in 2017. Bishop Neil C. Ellis, of Bahamas-based Global United Fellowship and a close friend of Long, has been a frequent guest in the pulpit since Davis left."New Birth is going forward after the appointment of Bryant was announced, said Ellis." Friday November 16th, Entertainment Icon Snoop Dogg released an Amazon Original “Grateful” featuring Tyrese and E-40. Only available to stream or purchase on Amazon Music, the song follows the release of Snoop Dogg’s #1 debut gospel album Bible of Love. This year marks a monumental time in the legend’s career. Monday, November 19, 2018, Snoop was honored, receiving his Hollywood Walk of Fame Star. In addition to commemorating the legacy of the Icon with his Star dedication ceremony, Snoop is celebrating the 25th Anniversary of his debut and classic album, "Doggystyle," which was originally released November 1993. Snoop Dogg’s first cookbook, Crook to Cook, also just hit shelves everywhere and shares personal favorite recipes. Emerging rapper and producer, J. Monty releases new single “My God. The new track marks the fourth single released by the Atlanta-based artist this year. Written by Monty and produced by Vikaden for NARCOTICS Music Group, “My God” highlights how God has been good to him despite his dark past. Meet J. Monty as the Gospel Spotlight is on him. In His Own Words.....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/jmonty_intvw.htm Singer Syleena Johnson and actress Quad Webb-Lunceford, co-hosts of TV One's daily talk show SISTER CIRCLE LIVE, appear on the next episode of RICKEY SMILEY FOR REAL, premiering this Tuesday, November 20 at 8 p.m./7C. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zXrsodN25J8&feature=youtu.be LOX Entertainment Agency, a curator of today’s top Inspirational talent, is proud to celebrate the signing of its 1st artist JJ Hairston to the famed agency, William Morris Endeavor (WME). LOX Entertainment Agency currently represents Gospel music pioneers Hezekiah Walker, Richard Smallwood and Tye Tribbett. In Everything Give Thanks” is the appropriate mantra for this week’s episode of The Blend, featuring power couple Alvin Chea of famed a capella group Take 6 and his wife Adria airing Wednesday, November 21 at 7 pm EST/4 p.m. PST at www.facebook.com/theblendtalkshow. Maranda Curtis is one of the most stunning and successful breakout artists in Gospel music this year. Her album Open Heaven debuted at #1 on the Gospel charts, and has amassed more than 13 million streams overall. Curtis has released a Christmas project to celebrate the joy and magnificence of the season. "Maranda Presents a Holy Christmas" is extraordinary in its musical arrangements as well as the expected goosebump-raising vocals delivered by Curtis and featured guests that include Benita Jones, Amante Lacey, Dr. Kevin Bond and more. "Maranda Presents a Holy Christmas" is available now. Maranda Curtis is the former worship leader at T.D. Jakes' The Potter House. Renowned leader, author, and songwriter Pastor William McDowell to launch the Deeper Worship Intensive (DWI). The inaugural Deeper Worship Intensive, slated for January 30, 2019 - February 2, 2019, in Orlando, Florida will be four days of general sessions, workshops, learning experiences, discussions, and mentorship aimed at impacting the worship community. Unlike any conference or initiative, Deeper Worship Intensive offers a comprehensive four-day gathering to instruct and educate worship leaders, ministers, songwriters, and singers to help to develop skills and knowledge vital to the progress and development of worship music for the next generation. Chart topper Koryn Hawthorne releases a newly-recorded single “This Christmas (Live),” available now at all digital music providers. Delivering a soaring festive live performance of the cherished modern Christmas classic, Hawthorne recorded “This Christmas (Live)” at Skyville Live in Nashville, TN. Her performance is from The Soul & Spirit of Christmas taping, airing on getTV on Friday, November 23rd at 8 pm ET. Koryn Hawthorne: “This Christmas (Live)” is available now. https://lnk.to/ThisChristmasLivePR Just a few weeks ago, Tyler Perry announced that his character 'Madea' was coming to an end. She was going to be coming to an end with the forth coming Movie A Madea's Family Funeral along with the final stage play "Madea's Farewell". The tour kicks off in Oakland, CA on January 18th and will tour for approximately 4 months. Reuniting with Perry is David and Tamela Mann! Mr. Brown and Cora! They have not been in a Tyler Perry stage play since 2008. Tickets for the Oakland, Phoenix, LA and Las Vegas are on Sale TODAY. Michelle Obama sports her natural curls for the cover of Essence magazine’s upcoming issue and other outlets have noted that this appears to be the first time the former first lady went all natural for a major publication. “Only @Essence would have our forever First Lady @MichelleObama on the cover, in her full natural hair glory, snapping her fingers, talking about real love,” Joi-Marie McKenzie, a senior entertainment editor at the magazine, said on Twitter. Essence’s December/January issue features Mrs. Obama reflecting on her days in the White House and balancing family life and a career. Meanwhile, she has kicked off a 10-city tour in her hometown of Chicago to promote her new memoir, “Becoming.” Oprah Winfrey, Sarah Jessica Parker, Reese Witherspoon and Tracee Ellis Ross, are scheduled to join Michelle Obama on stage at locations along the way. After Chicago, the tour will move to Los Angeles, Washington, Boston, Philadelphia, New York, Detroit, Denver, San Franciscoand Dallas. Ten percent of tickets at each event are being donated to local charities, schools and community groups. Four-time Grammy winner BeBe Winans is preparing for a coming musical “Born for This.” "I lived in New York 10 years and saw every musical ever made. I was Harpo in ‘The Color Purple,’ and a Broadway school taught me to write,” he explained. “I’ve written what’s important. I added new songs. I talk about my family. And Roberta Flack said I had to put this on Broadway. Mine's is a story of rejection. Of faith. Survival. God’s love. Of becoming involved with Tammy Faye and Jim Bakker.” Jim and Tammy Faye were a husband-and-wife televangelist team in the 1970s and ’80s before their ministry was brought down by scandal and bankruptcy. BeBe was part of that ministry. “To audition for them in Charlotte, NC, my mother took me and my sister south on a Greyhound bus. They wanted my sister, not me. I ended up working in a grocery. But then Bakker heard me sing — and that was my beginning. Santa la Noche" (O Holy Night in Spanish) New Music Video from Higher Place Church. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rLCkzS5mfI&feature=youtu.be This Thanksgiving, CREED II is a movie that speaks to Strength, Determination, Overcoming and Faith. CREED II is truly a Must see for the entire family! Life has become a balancing act for Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan). Between personal obligations and training for his next big fight, he is up against the challenge of his life. Facing an opponent with ties to his family's past only intensifies his impending battle in the ring. Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) is there by his side through it all and, together, Rocky and Adonis will confront their shared legacy, question what's worth fighting for, and discover that nothing's more important than family. Billboard Music Award and Stellar Award-Winning artist, JJ Hairston has expanded his organization for his next project. The prolific recording artist, officially signs with William Morris Endeavor (WME), to be represented by the powerhouse entertainment agency on all future bookings. In addition to WME handling official performance/tour bookings, Hairston forms a strategic partnership with The Icho Group, working with Norman Gyamfi. LaTrisha Perkins will also join The Icho Group, serving as day-to-day manager. The acclaimed contemporary sound and trendsetting impact of JJ Hairston has continued to explode, with the monumental success over the past year from the 2017 release of JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise's #1 album You Deserve It, and its #1 smash hit song "You Deserve It." On TBT....Hear JJ Hairston In His Own Words Inside The Gospel Spotlight....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/J_J_Hairston_intvw.htm Comcast Corporation today announced it has selected two new African American majority owned independent networks to be broadly distributed on Comcast Cable systems beginning in January 2019. After a thorough evaluation of dozens of proposals, Comcast selected AFRO and CLEO TV, both of which will provide quality entertainment that highlights and features TV and movie content about African American and black communities. AFRO, a channel from Afrotainment, is a 24-hour polycultural black network mainly broadcasting top-rated Nollywood and black movies, dramas, sitcoms, music, talk, and late night comedy shows. CLEO is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ln_7bquSOY0&feature=youtu.be Category Killer may be Pastor John Gray’s new nickname. It’s because of Gray’s work in bridging divides, work that includes going to places where people haven’t seen a lot of diversity, said Pastor Steven Furtick, who gave his friend the new nickname during a racial healing event at Gray’s Relentless Church in Greenville on Wednesday. “God has used you to break barriers,” said Furtick, lead pastor of Elevation Church in Charlotte, North Carolina. The conversation was recorded and will be released as a movie in theaters across the country, possibly early next year. Gray said he always looks to make himself personally uncomfortable, because it leads to growth. One way to grow, and to be uncomfortable, is to charge head-on into differences like when he signed on to work with the Rev. Joel Osteen or when he seeks out the whitest churches possible, such as Pastor Levi Lusko’s Montana church. “I know I’ve been places where I’m the first black man they’ve hugged,” Gray said. Lusko, one of the panelists, said his church recently uncovered WWII era advertisements while renovating, one of the ads promoted a KKK gathering at the former theater where he now leads worship services. Bringing Gray to speak on a stage where hatred once reigned is one of those small steps, he said. Gospel award-winning singer and pastor, CeCe Winans, recently spent time in Atlanta, GA promoting her new holiday release, Something's Happening! A Christmas Album. The day was kicked off with a visit to TV One's national day-time talk show, Sister Circle. The hosts welcomed CeCe with open arms and discussed everything from music to the importance of loving yourself and being confident in your calling. The next promotion stop will continue in Winans' hometown of Detroit on Friday, November 16th at the annual locally televised Christmas Tree Lighting for the Motor City. Winans will perform a few Christmas songs from her holiday treasure trove that was released in October. The single,"It&'s Christmas" is already in position at radio and fans will start to hear it everywhere as we draw closer to the day we celebrate the birth of Jesus. Atlanta-based Multi-Platinum, chart-topping songwriter/producer and Jamaican Inspirational recording artist MARANTO, known as Mark Bradford ("Cheerleader"), to release "Faith Through the Fire"EP on November 16, 2018. The 5-track EP is led by the title track "Faith Through the Fire" Inspired, MARANTO wrote "Faith Through the Fire" to encourage everyone to keep their faith during periods of hardship. OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network and Hearst Magazines announced today that Oprah Winfrey's in-depth conversation with Michelle Obama about her new memoir Becoming will air as a primetime special "Oprah Winfrey Presents: Becoming Michelle Obama" on Thursday, November 15 at 8:00 PT/ET on OWN, with an extended unedited version available on "Oprah's SuperSoul Conversations" podcast starting the same day, with part two available on November 19. In addition, the full interview will be streamed on Oprah's Facebook on Sunday, November 18 at 11:00 am ET/PT. The interview will also be featured in O, The Oprah Magazine on newsstands November 20, with behind-the-scenes content available on Oprahmag.com as well as globally across multiple Hearst Magazines' titles, including the December cover of ELLE. O, The Oprah Magazine and OWN also announced today that it has chosen Obama's book as its newest Oprah's Book Club selection. Chick-fil-A announces partnership with DoorDash. Chick-fil-A® customers no longer need to leave their homes to enjoy the Original Chicken Sandwich and other favorite menu items. Starting today, the restaurant company is officially offering delivery from more than 1,100 of its restaurants nationwide as part of a partnership with DoorDash, the on-demand destination connecting customers to their favorite national and local businesses. In celebration of the partnership, Chick-fil-A and DoorDash will give away up to 200,000 free Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwiches (one per customer in participating cities) from now until Tuesday, November 20, 2018, when placing an order through DoorDash. The giveaway is exclusively available through the DoorDash app and website with a $5 minimum order when using the promo code "CFADELIVERY." The giveaway will be available daily after 10:30 am local time TV One brings the holiday spirit with premieres of two new original movies and other special holiday programming: A SPECIAL NIGHT OF RICKEY SMILEY FOR REAL, airing Tuesday, November 20 at 8 p.m./7C; MERRY WISHMAS, debuting Sunday, December 2 at 7 p.m./6C; LIVING BY DESIGN HOLIDAY SPECIAL, Sunday, December 9 at 7p.m./6C; and COINS FOR CHRISTMAS, premiering Sunday, December 16 at 7 p.m./6C. A SPECIAL NIGHT WITH RICKEY SMILEY FOR REAL kicks off back-to-back episodes as Rickey share some good cheer along with his favorite holiday-approved recipes during his hilarious “Cooking with Comedy” digital series. TV One brings the holiday spirit with the premiere of MERRY WISHMAS, starring Tamela Mann (The Manns), David Mann (The Manns), Kim Fields (Living Single), Towanda Braxton (Braxton Family Values), Chrystale Wilson (The Players Club) and Elizabeth Omilami (Madea’s Family Reunion), revolves around successful businesswoman Kenni (Tamela Mann) who hasn’t returned home to the quaint town of Columbia, South Carolina in years. She’s hoping for a peaceful visit when she finally returns home, but unresolved family issues threaten to make the Christmas holiday not so bright. MERRY WISHMAS will be featured programming during TV One’s Holiday Movie Marathon on December 24-25. TV One brings the holiday spirit with the premiere of COINS FOR CHRISTMAS stars Stephen Bishop (Being Mary Jane), Essence Atkins (Marlon), TC Carson (Living Single), Kelly Price (Saints and Sinners) and Karlie Redd (Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta). The film chronicles single mom Madison (Atkins) who’s saved all year to make sure her teenage kids have the best Christmas ever. That is until she gets fired from the bookstore she manages and comes home to find that the IRS has frozen her bank account due to delinquent taxes her ex-husband failed to pay. COINS FOR CHRISTMAS will be featured programming during TV One’s Holiday Movie Marathon on December 24-25. Bounce, will premiere its first Bounce Original Movie, “A Stone Cold Christmas,” on Sunday, November 25 at 9:00 p.m. ET/8:00 p.m. CT. Bounce also announced a new original series Last Call, a half-hour situation comedy from Bobbcat Films and Roger Bobb, producer of Tyler Perry's ;House of Payne, Tyler Perry's Meet the Browns and Mann & Wife. Last Call will premiere on Bounce on Monday, Jan. 7, 2019. A twist on the Charles Dickens classic A Christmas Carol, “A Stone Cold Christmas” stars Demetria McKinney (Saints & Sinners, Tyler Perry's House of Payne) as Mia Stone, a shrewd businesswoman and a dreadful boss, who is more concerned about money than family and friends. When Mia finds herself face-to-face with the love of her life, she is forced to deal with past decisions if she has any chance of a future. Rounding out the cast are Andra Fuller (True to the Game, Black Jesus), Fred Williamson (Being Mary Jane, Hell Up in Harlem), Brittany Perry Russell (Sparkle, The Preacher's Son) and Lochlyn Munro (Riverdale, Scream, White Chicks). “A Stone Cold Christmas” will also air throughout the holiday season. GRAMMY® Award winner and top-selling artist Tasha Cobbs Leonard earns her 4th (and her third consecutive) number one album with Heart. Passion. Pursuit.: Live At Passion City Church. This phenomenal all-live album captures Cobbs Leonard’s dynamic and signature worship experience. Spurred on by Cobbs Leonard’s sold-out REVIVAL tour, Heart. Passion. Pursuit.: Live At Passion City Church offers fans the chance to relive the tour experience, offering over an hour of live versions of her hit songs. The power and praise of Shiloh Metropolitan Baptist Church magnifies the glory of God in a mighty way. It is in their church DNA to present bold expressions of worship. H.B. Charles, Jr. has been the pastor of Shiloh for 10 years. The thriving church is a gem in northeast Florida, with music being central to its culture, because music is close to their pastor’s heart. Shiloh Baptist Church, releases Psalms, Hymns & Spiritual Songs from H.B. Charles, Jr. Produced by Joe Pace, Worship Pastor at Shiloh and Grammy nominated choirmaster, Psalms, Hymns & Spiritual Songs expresses the musical passion that flows from Pastor Charles every week, as well as the traditional sound of Gospel music that he grew up listening to. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Ralph Johnson was playing drums one night when Maurice and Verdine White dropped by to check him out. By late 1971, Ralph received a phone call to audition for Earth, Wind and Fire. He joined them and in 1972, Ralph was drummer-percussionist-vocalist with the group. Along with Philip Bailey and Verdine White, Ralph is one of the three remaining founding members of Earth, Wind and Fire, a band that has reigned supreme for 45 years. They still tour to sold out audiences worldwide. In this collaboration with Siedah Garrett who penned “Man In The Mirror” they have written and recorded “Have A Very Merry Christmas”, a song that is destined to become a Christmas Classic. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLpH0oysSyw Riding high on the success of his new hit single “Open Your Mouth and Say Something!” Brent Jones will appear at the 2018 Billboard Live Music Summit & Awards on Nov 14th!? The 15th annual event celebrates the best in live music entertainment & gathers some of music's biggest st ars & industry power players to discuss emerging trends in business. In particular, the Billboard Summit will look at diversity in the touring business including an effort to create the industry's first inclusivity rider - a subject of great importance to Brent Jones, one of gospel's busiest touring artists. Unfortunately, we have sad news to report concerning Stan Lee, the man responsible for much of the Marvel Universe, has died. He was 95. Lee was rushed from his Hollywood Hills home early Monday morning by ambulance to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center where he died. Stan started Marvel with Jack Kirby in 1961 with The Fantastic Four. He went on to create Spider-Man, Black Panther, The Incredible Hulk, X-Men, Iron Man and The Avengers. Stan made cameo appearances in all of the Marvel movies. Two-time NAACP Image Award-Winning Actor and Comedian David Mann and his wife, Grammy® Award-Winning, NAACP Image-Award Winning Actress Tamela Mann, are celebrating their 30-year love story with the release of their first joint album, Us Against The World: The Love Project November 9, 2018. Inspired by David and Tamela’s new memoir, Us Against the World: Our Secrets to Love, Marriage, and Family(November 13), this soulful 10-song musical collaboration about resilient and enduring love is brimming with the couple’s vocal chemistry. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YS8VRmmxJYo A bill was introduced to the House that would designate a portion of a freeway in Detroit as the “Aretha Franklin Memorial Highway.” As reported by the Detroit Free Press, State Rep. Fred Durhal III, D-Detroit, introduced the bill this week that calls on the Michigan Department of Transportation to designate a portion of M-10 — from 8 Mile to I-94 — as a memorial to Franklin. “The Lodge Freeway was close to her stomping grounds,” he said. “Her father’s church is in my district and so she was a staple in the community. We just wanted to make sure we paid the proper tribute to her.” Comedian, actor and producer Kevin Hart and "Girls Trip" co-producer Will Packer join the "Rickey Smiley Morning Show" crew to promote their latest film "Night School" on the next episode of TV One's RICKEY SMILEY FOR REAL, premiering Tuesday, November 13 at 8 p.m./7C. Hart is in rare form when he visits Rickey's morning show and delivers a laugh-out-loud interview where everyone in the room is a target for some good-natured roasting. From a risqué male bathing suit line, to the relevance of black fraternities, no topic is off limits in the studio as verbal digs are freely thrown and countered. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFm9AMsHol4&feature=youtu.be Juan and Lisa Winans (formerly Lisa Kimmey) announce the release of their Christmas EP, "A Little Soul for Christmas," on Friday, November 16. The 5-track EP offers a timeless collection of holiday classics and original songs. “A Little Soul for Christmas” is a must-have for any holiday music collection. The EP's lead singles, "Rest" and "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" are available for listening now. Juan and Lisa Winans married in 2007. After leading believers in worship for over a decade together, the Grammy nominated couple are returning to their first love as gospel music recording artists. Tamera Mowry Housley’s niece Alaina was one of the victims in the Wednesday night’s attack inSoCal. “Our hearts are broken. We just learned that our Alaina was one of the victims of last night’s shooting at Borderline Bar in Thousand Oaks.” She added: “Alaina was an incredible young woman with so much life ahead of her and we are devastated that her life was cut short in this manner.” Now, unfortunately, reality has struck close to home for the actress/TV talk show host due to the mass shooting tragedy in Southern California Wednesday evening. Mowry and her husband, Adam Housley, niece was at the bar where a gunman opened fire and brutally killed 12 people. Rodney Douglas is a bright, young, anointed singer and songwriter who started singing and serving in ministry at his home church Greater New Covenant Church of God In Christ where his father Superintendent Rodney Douglas, Sr. is Pastor. Rodney’s HOW I MADE IT EP is available now on all digital music outlets and is produced by Michael “Rill” Whitfield, Jr. Rodney penned all songs on the EP and duets with St. Louis based vocalist Christina C. Bell on the song "One In A Million". His "Glory" single, produced by Josh Mayfield, is a beautiful worship ballad that showcases his heart and passion for music and ministry. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08exYgjYIVs&feature=youtu.be Black Smoke Music Worldwide CEO, Kerry Douglas, has struck No. 1 on the Gospel Albums Sales chart with his new compilation album,” Kerry Douglas Presents Gospel Mix X”. It’s the 10th installment in Douglas’ best-selling series of gospel mix tape compilation projects that feature both established and up-and-coming gospel artists. The 19-track set also debuted at No. 2 on the Top Gospel Albums consumption chart, No. 6 on the Compilation Albums sales chart, No. 23 on the Independent Albums sales chart and No. 97 on the Top Current Albums sales chart. Here is the review on the Gospel Spotlight: http://gospel-spotlight.com/album_rvw.htm Hot on the heels of their 2017 Stellar Award for “Youth Project of the Year” for It’s My Time, Look for the November 23rd street date of Another Chance, Joshua Troop’s first full-length album since 2010’s Troop Nation. Originally founded as a youth choir to provide urban Chicago teens a positive alternative to gang and street life, Joshua’s Troop is comprised of teenagers and young adults who praise God through song and energetic live performance. Infusing contemporary hip-hop and spoken word elements with familiar gospel sensibilities, Another Chance brings Joshua’s Troop’s message of redemption to today’s generation of youth while expanding their reach into more mainstream gospel marketplace. Produced and co-written by Percy Gray, Jr. (New Direction, Chicago Mass Choir), Another Chance is electrifyingly eclectic--featuring songs of encouragement, evangelism, repentance, testimony, worship and even a rousing a cappella piece. Chart topper Travis Greene continues to spread a promising message of love to encourage listeners everywhere, with the release of the official music video for his song “Love Will Always Win” and embarking on a new tour, his See The Light Tour launching on Valentine’s Day, Thursday February 14th, 2019 in Chattanooga, TN,. The multiple GRAMMY®nominee, Billboard Music Award winner and eleven-time Stellar Award winner recently won a Dove Award for his chart topping hit “You Waited,” from his #1 album Crossover: Live from Music City. Greene recently released the new single “See The Light” ft. Jekalyn Carr, out at radio now. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EzIL7rfHtPg Anita Wilson does it again with another Smash Hit"He Will." A Fresh sound and epic lyrics that is sure to be loved by everyone! Anita Wilson in a brief span of time has proven to be more than enough to become an established, admirable and consistent contributor to the music industry. A classic presence, unique vocal stylings and approachable humility are just a few of her attributes. After years of background singing with Donald Lawrence & Company, Anita Wilson emerged as a solo recording artist in 2011 with the soulful heartfelt ballad "Speechless." Ms. Anita has allowed her passion for God, music and creative freedom to mark out a custom and relevant lane. Her Debut Album "Worship Soul" (2013), Sophomore Album "Vintage Worship" (2015) and 3rd Album "Sunday Song" have made their mark on the industry. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dn7oLjBPp7w "Changed" is the classic hit written by the late Walter Hawkins. This soul-stirring remake is performed by a dynamic duo that consist of Soul music legend Patti LaBelle and Greenleaf star Deborah Joy Winans. These two powerful voices will be performing their rendition of "Changed" in the November 7 episode airing at 10PM EST on the OWN Network. "It was an honor to sing such a classic song with one of the most transcendent artists of our time," says Deborah Joy Winans. "Patti LaBelle is truly a legend and this is an opportunity I will never forget" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYhSi05NPeQ Javen drops a 60 sec. performance video: Jehovah https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nYcHMc9jNXE&feature=youtu.be Bringing Christmas to Detroit and the World! Detroit's own CeCe will headline the annual Christmas tree-lighting ceremony, Friday, November 16, at Campus Martius; and with the recent release of SOMETHING’S HAPPENING! A CHRISTMAS ALBUM, she will be spreading good news and cheer to not only Detroit, but the entire world. Integrity Music and Tyscot Records announce the January 25 release of the much-anticipated album The Gathering from Stellar Award winning, Dove Award nominated worship artist Casey J along with the immediate release of the album's title track. The new song follows The Gathering's debut single and Casey J's current "If God." An Atlanta, Georgia-based worship leader and former elementary school teacher, Casey J (Hobbs) grew up in a house filled with God's Word, watching as her grandmother hosted Bible studies and home church groups. That mantle for sharing the Gospel outside of traditional church settings now rests on Casey who began holding 'pop up worship' events in public places.' There is a song "Faith Through The Fire", the new inspirational single release from Maranto a Jamaican native and recording artist. It is now available at all digital music outlets and starting to heat up. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JiKfIFCZiNo Even in a country where mass shootings have become a fact of life, it was nearly impossible for most Americans to make sense of a gunman walking into Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh and murdering 11 worshipers in cold blood. But for the congregants at Mother Emanuel AME in Charleston, where a lone gunman murdered nine people in 2015, the synagogue shooting wasn’t inconceivable. It was a bad memory repeating itself. When Eric Manning, pastor of the historic South Carolina church, heard about the synagogue shooting, he prepared himself for what he knew would happen next. Manning says he gets calls from reporters and concerned congregants looking to him for answers that he doesn’t always have. When Manning took over the ministry of Mother Emanuel AME, it was only six months after the attack on one of the oldest black churches in America. A historic African-American Baptist church in Alexandria, Virginia, received a bomb threat during a Saturday evening worship service, one week after 11 Jewish worshippers were gunned down at a synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The service, one of four services held each weekend at the 7,000-member Alfred Street Baptist Church in suburban Washington, D.C., was wrapping up when word came that police were outside and requesting all members to remain inside. Pastor Howard-John Wesley, pastor of the church for 10 years, said police first quarantined the church, blocking off nearby streets for a bomb search. Wesley said suspicious packages were found, but he had not been informed whether or not any contained explosives. Amazing Grace, a long-awaited documentary featuring Aretha Franklin’s signature performances at New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles, will make its world debut at the 2018 DOC NYC, America’s largest documentary film festival. The live performances, ranked among Ms. Franklin’s finest, were originally recorded and filmed during a church service in Watts on January 13 and 14, 1972. Warner Bros. Pictures captured the footage for a companion documentary to the double live album “Amazing Grace.” “Amazing Grace” would go on to be the biggest selling album of Aretha Franklin’s career, and the best-selling gospel album of all time. Mired in technical issues, the film was never released to the publicThe documentary is a labor of love and a timely tribute to the music icon who passed away in August 2018. Bebe Winans’ new video for his new single Laughter marks the worldwide introduction of Korean Soul. It was Donald Lawrence who brought the group of friends to Winans attention. Donald Lawrence forwarded a clip of the group singing from one of the members’ Instagram pages, “I was blown away,” recalls Winans. “Initially Boyz II Men were going to be on the song [“Laughter”], but our schedules just wouldn’t allow it. Then one day it hit me: ‘What about the guys from Korea?’ We connected and agreed to partner in a production deal.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pv0EeJVKCkc D'Essence has a heartfelt conversation with her brother Brandon, who discloses private details of his journey to recovery from alcoholism on the next episode of TV One's RICKEY SMILEY FOR REAL, airing Tuesday, November 6 at 8 p.m./7C. After being arrested for two DUI's, D'Essence reaches out to Brandon for emotional support as she starts on a new path to focus on her health and safety. While appreciative of his advice, she expresses her frustration with his lack of communication during the low points in her life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ADhaH9-Gcac&feature=youtu.be Two-time GRAMMY® Award-nominated, two-time Dove Award-nominated and Stellar Award-winning artist, William Murphy, releases his new single “Settle Here”, which is available now on digital platforms and impacting radio. “Settle Here” is the lead single off Murphy’s forthcoming sixth album Settle Here, which is scheduled to release March 2019. Delivering yet again another heart-rending single, “Settle Here” is an atmosphere shifting worship anthem, capturing Murphy’s live performance in Atlanta. Written by Murphy and co-produced by Kenneth and Tasha Cobbs Leonard, the single is a collective plea for God’s presence. Singer Robert Hawkins is an independent artist on the rise. Robert is a one-man machine. He books his own performance dates, and promotes and sells his 2017 EP release RESERVED. His hard work keeps RESERVED on the Top Gospel Albums sales chart each week. His infectious personality and energetic stage presence keeps his audiences growing in number. Robert's popular "Happy" single from the RESERVED album has garnered successful radio airplay and is in music video format on YouTube. He recently released a companion DVD for "Happy" that debuted at #10 on the Top Music Videos chart and has remained on the charts each week to current date. Robert Hawkins is preparing for a new album in 2019. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mCxxmulhOGI&feature=youtu.be Producer DeVon Franklin (Miracles from Heaven, The Star) and 20th Century Fox are getting ready for the upcoming new movie BREAKTHROUGH, which will be in theaters next April. BREAKTHROUGH is based on the incredible true story of one mother who prays her son back to life. When Joyce Smith’s son John falls through an icy Missouri lake, all hope seems lost. But as John lies lifeless, Joyce refuses to give up. Her steadfast belief produces a miracle that flies in the face of every medical case history and scientific prediction. Starring Chrissy Metz (This Is Us), Topher Grace, Josh Lucas, Dennis Haysbert, Mike Colter, and Marcel Ruiz. Darius Brooks former Music Director for Rev. Milton Brunson's Legendary Thompson Community Singers Has Reunited Key Choir Alumni for a Dynamic New Live Project called "The Tommies Reunion". The 14-track set of powerful original songs reunites this choir's. Leading out this long awaited reunion project is the hot single "He Worked It Out" written & produced by the legendary Tommies alumni Percy Bady. This powerful jam instantly showcases the classic sound of "The Tommies", with the blazing horn section arranged by Lloyd Barry and the vocal attention solely on the animated choir lines with no lead vocalist. GRAMMY® Award winner and top-selling artist Tasha Cobbs Leonard, releases new all-live album Heart. Passion. Pursuit.: Live At Passion City Church. Available today on all platforms, this one-of-a-kind project is the worthy follow-up to the highest-selling new gospel album of the past two years, and is the essential collection for Tasha Cobbs Leonard fans. Recorded at Passion City Church in Atlanta, GA, Cobbs Leonard covers songs from her vast catalogue of music. Heart. Passion. Pursuit.: Live At Passion City Church brims with favorites including“Break Every Chain,” “I’m Getting Ready,” “For Your Glory,” “Fill Me Up,”“Gracefully Broken,” and much more. Live performance videos of each song will also premiere on Tasha’s YouTube/VEVO channels today. Heart. Passion. Pursuit.: Live At Passion City serves as the perfect companion piece to Tasha’s upcoming Revival Tour. Opening yesterday, the 11-show Revival Tour will play eight more cities as Tasha continues to sell out shows in Charlotte, New York and Baltimore. TaMyya J is ready to release to the world what she’s been working on. After singing background around the globe for Gospel Artist such as; Mary Mary, Donnie McClurkin, John Gray and countless others she is ready to release her sophomore project “Love For Your Name”.TaMyya J loves the Lord and serves on the praise team at her home church Calvary Revival Church of Norfolk, Virginia where Bishop B. Courtney McBath is the Pastor. A celebration takes place as Women On The Move presents TaMyya J in an Listening Party and appearance on Friday, November 16th at Calvary Revival Church Norfolk, Virginia. This Free Event is a open-to-the-public, CD signing allowing guests to meet TaMyya J in-person, and receive an autographed copy of the “LOVE FOR YOUR NAME” CD. SOAR Radio and Sun Wise Media to premiere the second annual Gospel Radio Awards Friday, November 23 @ 9 PM ET/ 8 PM CT on The Word Network. The big show is hosted by legendary producer/recording artist, Donald Lawrence, and acclaimed singer/actress, Michelle Williams. The awards were held at The Coronado Performing Arts Center in Rockford, IL earlier this year. The hour-long highlights presentation features riveting performances and appearances by Le’Andria Johnson, Jonathan McReynolds, Jekalyn Carr, JJ Hairston, Sensere, Todd Dulaney, Myron Butler, Ted Winn, Latice Crawford, Tim Bowman Jr. and Motown Gospel newcomer, Gene Moore, among others. This special evening also honors an eclectic group of gospel music pioneers. The dynamic Beverly Crawford received the Legend Award. Sister act, Virtue, earned the Milestone Award. Singer/Producer, J. Moss, took the Pioneer Award. The multi-talented, Vashawn Mitchell, strolled away with the Trailblazer Award and Bishop Hezekiah Walker took home the Gospel Icon Award. The Unification Church, properly known as Family Federation for World Peace and Unification USA, is hosting a major event this month titled, “Peace Starts with Me” and has invited high profile Christian artists, such as Israel Houghton, Yolanda Adams and others to help spread the mission of self-described “mother, the only begotten daughter of God,” Hak Ja Han Moon. A new video promotion for the Nov. 12 event held in New York City’s Nassau Coliseum, announced that Grammy award winner Houghton will join Bishop Noel Jones, along with gospel singers Yolanda Adams, and Hezekiah Walker for the Unificationism gathering. It’s unclear why these popular Christians would link arms with this un-Christian faith. Houghton, Adams, Walker or Jones have not responded to media inquiries regarding their involvement at the non-Christian event. Moon, who is the keynote speaker for “Peace Starts With Me” believes “Jesus failed in his mission” for world peace by being crucified. Candi Staton has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Staton, 78, received the news on the first day of rehearsals for her summer tour in support of her 30th studio album, Unstoppable, reports The Guardian. “I decided to keep it to myself and do some soul-searching. I went through all of the emotions: denial, ‘poor me’ and anger. It really helped me to be on the road, doing something I love to do, and was born to do,” Staton said. Staton’s 12 weeks of chemotherapy started today (10-30-18). She’s encouraging women, “including elderly women — to get a regular mammogram.” Speaking with Rolling Stone, Staton said she noticed a lump on her left breast earlier this year. The powerful and purposeful Kimberly Jones-Pothier aka REAL TALK KIM has kicked off a 12-city book tour, with Saginaw Michigan as the next stop on Sunday, November 4th as a special guest of the “Fire in the City Conference”. The feisty author who has been featured on The Dr. Oz Show, Preachers of Atlanta, CNN and Nightline, will be presenting, selling and signing copies of her new book, When Your Bad Meets His Good: Find Purpose in Your Pain during the conference. In the book, Kim exhorts readers to shut down negative self-talk and seek the peace of God. She gives step by step instructions on how to break free from soul ties that are holding you back spiritually, emotionally and physically to live a life of freedom. Alongside her husband, Mark Pothier, Kim is a senior pastor of Church of the Harvest in Fayetteville, GA. The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) announced over $5.6M was raised (at the time of print) at Monday night's 31st Anniversary Awards Gala. The audience consisted of over 400 students that attended TMCF's Leadership Institute, and over 1,000 civic, corporate, government and education leaders from around the country at the Washington Marriott Wardman Park Hotel. Congressman Mark Walker (R, NC) and Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax (D, VA) presented Dr. Glenda Baskin Glover, president of Tennessee State University, and international president, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, with TMCF's Educational Leadership Award; Dennis A. Muilenburg, chairman, president and chief executive officer of The Boeing Company, was the TMCF CEO of the Year Award honoree; and Leslie T. Thornton, senior vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary of WGL Holdings Inc. and Washington Gas, received the TMCF Thurgood Marshall Legacy Award. Tyler Perry made the official announcement during a Sirius XM interview, explaining, “I just don’t want to be her age [still] playing her.” Madea, who was 68 when she was first introduced onstage 20 years ago, has been the hardest-working character The filmmaker revealed that he and his cast wrapped production on Madea Family Funeral two years ago—the plot involving a family reunion, a homecoming to backwoods Georgia, and an unexpected funeral. The poster shows Perry’s grand-dame title character in full mourning garb, head tilted down. The filmmaker, who debuted the character onstage in "I Can Do Bad All by Myself," did not disclose whether the funeral was for Madea herself. The stage show and film finale, a neat 20 years after Madea’s debut, seem like a symmetrical bookend. Perry joked that Madea did not know she was being written off, deadpanning, “Don’t tell her. It’s time for Pittsburghers to shed their reputation for avoiding crossing rivers and bridges, several religious and community leaders said Monday night in the city’s Hill District. “We need to and must cross more bridges,” said Brian Magee, CEO of Pump, a Downtown-based nonprofit that runs the Pittsburgh Sports League and works with more than 30,000 people under the age of 40 in civic and community programs. “To the Jewish community: We love you, we love you, we stand with you. You are our neighbors. We will work tirelessly alongside you to build bridges and eradicate hate from our communities.” More than two dozen people representing a variety of faiths and groups — Jews, Christians, Muslims and community advocates — gathered in the historically black Pittsburgh neighborhood to pray and promote unity and social justice following Saturday’s deadly attack at the Tree of Life synagogue in Squirrel Hill. Vet is a series of EP’s that highlights Da’ T.R.U.T.H.’s evolution as a creative and experience young veteran leader. It is a collection of insights from Da’ T.R.U.T.H.’s journey that he feels compelled to share with the world. Da’ T.R.U.T.H. is owning his space as a wily veteran. On the album opener, “The Prologue” and “Long Time”, he reminds us of his experience in the game and gives a level of insight into where he’s been, what he’s been doing the past few years and where his focus lies at the moment. His wisdom and experience shine through on songs like “Everything” and “Brand New”, while his creativity as an artist is showcased on songs like “Would You Love Me?” featuring Greg Cox. His collaboration with Greg Cox and KJ Scriven (Tye Tribbett, Travis Greene…) seemed to have pulled out the best in him. If you are a fan of Da’ T.R.U.T.H., prepare for something fresh and if you have not listened to him in a while, then this is the album to return to. Pre-order Vet and get “Brand New (feat. Samoht)” instantly. Full EP hits outlets November 9th. Bishop Paul S. Morton, founding presiding bishop of The Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International which encompasses some 5,000 churches and 1 million members, confirmed on Saturday that his “spiritual son,” who leads a megachurch, engaged in “multiple” sexual relationships. Morton apologized to the women involved. “I was recently made aware of a situation involving one of my spiritual sons, Bishop Victor Couzens, being involved in multiple relationships that caused me concern. I spoke with Bishop Couzens about his actions as they were not in alignment with the level of character I expect of pastors, especially one that is my spiritual son. He has repented and tendered his resignation as the Bishop of College of Elders of Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship,” Morton said in a statement. “Though I understand the relationships were consensual, I want to also offer an apology to the young ladies involved as well as the body of Christ for this situation. People of God, we must maintain high standards. I’m not perfect but I’m determined to present myself to God as a living sacrifice holy and acceptable unto God which is my reasonable service,” said the Full Gospel founder who previously admitted to having a daughter out of wedlock. Couzens led the 5,000-member Inspirational Bible Church – City of Destiny in Ohio. As of Monday morning, Couzens was still listed as senior pastor of the church. Actresses Tichina Arnold and Tisha Campbell-Martin are set to host the 2018 Soul Train Music Awards, which will air on BET in late November. Campbell and Arnold are real-life besties who also played best friends on the hit comedy series “Martin.” Erykah Badu, a previous Soul Train Awards host, will be honored with the “Legend Award” for her career that spans over two decades in the music business and Faith Evans is slated to receive the “Lady of Soul Award.” TV One's original, documentary series UNSUNG HOLLYWOOD and UNCENSORED will air new episodes on Sunday, October 28. Kicking off at 9 p.m. ET/8C with untold stories from comedian/actor/radio host Rickey Smiley, UNSUNG HOLLYWOOD profiles influential black celebrities in Hollywood. UNCENSORED, which gives unprecedented access to your favorite personalities, follows at 10 p.m. ET/9C with actor Lil Rel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tDBfKVpvgUE ; Today, In the Softest Way, the debut solo album from multiple GRAMMY® Award-winning recording artist and songwriter, Carvin Winans, is available for pre-order via all major digital providers. Scheduled for release in early 2019, In the Softest Way is an eleven-track collection that boasts a well-balanced mix of ballads and mid-tempo songs ranging from R&B to inspirational. In addition, the album features guest appearances by Stevie Wonder, Kenny G, Tony Maiden and Winans’ brother,Marvin Winans. RCA Inspiration celebrates two nominations for the 2018 Soul Train Awards, with gospel icon Kirk Franklin and hip-hop icon Snoop Dogg getting nominated in the category of Best Gospel/Inspirational Award. Kirk Franklin and Snoop Dogg are both previous Soul Train Award winners, while this marks the first nomination in the Gospel/Inspirational category for Snoop Dogg, who released his first gospel project, Snoop Dogg Presents Bible of Love, earlier this year. The 2018 Soul Train Awards will be taped on Saturday, November 17th, 2018 in Las Vegas, and air on Sunday, November 25th, 2018 on BET and BET HER at 8 pm ET. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKEWAbKqBsQ Today, Atlanta based rapper and producer, J. Montyreleases his new single “Mercy” featuring Sitovea. “Mercy” marks the third single released from the emerging artist this fall. Similar to previously released singles, “Mercy” has an inspiring message emphasizing the need for God’s mercy daily. The new single references “Gold St.”, a metaphor used in Monty’s second single “21 Gold St.” which was co-written by and features vocals from Koryn Hawthorne. Recently, J. Monty released the official music video for his debut single “Seven Nights.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQ2gBCiQPms&feature=youtu.be Brent Jones headlines "Church at the Park" this Sun, Oct 28th! Music super-producer Shep Crawford (Whitney Houston, Luther Vandross, Boys II Men, etc.)has enlisted Grammy & Stellar winner Brent Jones to headline this big annual outdoor event geared toward uniting the South LA community. The pastor of Experience Christian Ministries,Pastor Shep Crawford has been leading the way in improving the South LA community by taking his congregation beyond the 4-walls. Nestled in between 2 gang territories, in an area mostly populated by African Americans & Latinos, "Church at the Park" was created to help to bring peace and offer a meeting place where voices can be heard & needs addressed. After spending 21 weeks at #1 with the smash single, “Won’t He Do It,” Koryn Hawthorne returns with “Unstoppable,” the follow-up single from her debut album. Continuing in the tradition of “Won’t He Do It,” Koryn is once again championing God’s power by proclaiming that she’s “Unstoppable” in any of her pursuits, as long as God is her source. David & Tamela Mann’s interview on the “purple couch” at “The Wendy Williams Show.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q44r53R153I&feature=youtu.be Gospel recording artist and member of Destiny’s Child Michelle Williams calendar got a little busier with the announcement of her return to Broadway and the debut of her new reality show. “Chad Loves Michelle” will feature an honest inside look at the path to marriage between the Grammy award-winning singer Michelle Williams, and Chad Johnson, a sports chaplain. Williams returns to Broadway as Erzulie in the Tony Award winning Best Revival of Once On This Island beginning Friday, November 30. Michelle T. Williams will play the role through Sunday, June 2, 2019. Williams made her Broadway debut in 2003 in the title role of the hit musical, Aida. She went on to appear in The Color Purple where she portrayed blues singer Shug Avery, starring as ‘Roxie Hart’ in the Broadway and West End productions of Chicago, the stage play of What My Husband Doesn’t Know, a national tour of the musical Fela! in 2013 and a 2016 St. Louis residency performance of Aida at The Muny. Bryan Andrew Wilson is writing a new career chapter with an urban music-inspired EP, This Time, which recently reached No. 2 on Top Singles sales chart. The spiritual soul singer put aside the ballads he's known for such as "Turning Away" and brought a hard-hitting urban rhythm to the title track. "So many people are leaving church because of the hypocrisy of church leaders," Wilson adds."People are quick to pass judgement and gossip when they don't know your story or how you came to be in the condition, they find you in. The church is supposed to be the hospital for the sick but too often we're telling the sick that they have no insurance, so go away. This song is about shaking off the naysayers and giving yourself your God-granted second chance. I sing that `This time, I'm gonna love harder, I'm gonna be smarter." That's a message that anyone can embrace whether they go to church or not." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1u9_DpNOZ1E At Cleveland, Tennessee’s Lee University, Mykah Smith stands inside a silent, candlelit circle of peers, professors and administrators. A Bahamian graduate student, she relays her own pain to the group: “I was not black until I came to America.” Smith is one of three students of color speaking at Lee’s Vigil for Racial Solidarity. Several months after the 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, a small group of Lee professors planned the vigil as way of inviting members of the university community to stand together in solidarity against racism with their brothers and sisters of color. Over 700 attendees sang along with a gospel choir and listened to administrators advocate for inclusion. Grammy, American Music Award, Stellar and Dove Award winning duo, Paul “pda” Allen and J Moss (aka “PAJAM”), announced label changes and upcoming projects to PAJAM Records today. A new addition to PAJAM include, Award Winning Songwriter/Singer Travis Malloy and viral pop music rising star Marcy. In addition to new label signings, PAJAM, is gearing up for the return of its staple artist J Moss in 2019. Moss will drop a new single, “VICTORY” from his forthcoming 2019 album titled, “V6.” Malloy’s debut single on PAJAM, “We Serve A Mighty God” will be available November 16, 2018 everywhere music is sold and streamed digitally. Travis is no stranger to the music industry, he’s been behind the scenes as a songwriter and producer; and now the world will know him as an artist with an amazing distinctive voice. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nrLfXoKtwbk&feature=youtu.be PAJAM founders, J Moss and Paul Allen are both featured in the new film, “Never Heard” starring Romeo Miller, Robin Givens, Dorien Wilson, David Banner and Karrueche Tran. “Never Heard” chronicles the life of an incarcerated man’s son growing up in Los Angeles without a father and the tough decisions that he’s faced to make, that ultimately may land his son in prison as well. “Never Heard” will have a limited one-day release on November 1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oYaJZSCY_lA&feature=youtu.be Devon Golder has co-written or produced songs that have been recorded by Missy Elliott, Shakira, Lil Kim, Cassidy, Lyfe Jennings, Danity Kane and even Pop music legend, Paul Simon. The biggest so far is the 2007 Top Ten smash, "Sweetest Girl (Dollar Bill)," by Wyclef Jean, Akon, Lil Wayne and Nia. Golder teams up with Jean on his new music video,"I Talk to God." Hammond, Louisiana based independent gospel record label A&P Records has inked a partnership deal with Nashville-based company United Alliance Music Group (UAMG), it was announced today by A&P Records Founder and CEO Regina Showers-Gordon. Under the terms of this new strategic partnership effective October 23, 2018, UAMG will provide, utilizing a "conception to completion" model, world-class A&R, consulting, marketing, mastering, publishing assistance and radio promotion. The Prince of Peace Church of St. Louis will host their first live CD recording of their dynamic 50-voice Mass Choir. The recording will showcase Prince of Peace Mass Choir's anointed and eclectic collection of worship anthems, traditional and contemporary gospel songs they currently sing in their weekly worship services. The choir will also perform all new songs from some of the nation's most poignant Christian music songwriters. The Mass Choir debut album is being produced by St. Louis native Kevin Kelley (Bishop Paul Morton, Donnie McClurkin, VaShawn Mitchell, Kurt Carr), and is under the directorial leadership of Prince of Peace Minister of Music Joseph Price. The Prince of Peace Church want it blesses everyone that hears it on October 28 and beyond. The Gathering is North Charleston’s newest combined, contemporary-style worship service. The two groups, Aldersgate and Enoch Chapel United Methodist churches started the monthly initiative last spring and are now hosting weekly worship services. They hope the services will continue attracting people from all walks of life and demonstrate true racial reconciliation. So far, it’s been successful. Over the summer, the monthly effort saw nearly 100 worshippers regularly — several of whom didn’t belong to either Aldersgate or Enoch. Although an expected drop in attendance occurred when the effort went weekly in September, The Gathering still drew a steady flow of 60-plus guests. The Gathering started, in part, as a response to the killing of Walter Scott, a black man who was shot by white North Charleston police officer Michael Slager. — the latest incident at the time for a nation struggling with conversations on race relations. Pastor Victoria Richardson, a black woman who had been leading the historically black Enoch Chapel and Pastor Erik Grayson,who leads the predominantly-white Aldersgate knew that something had to be done to offer healing and destroy barriers separating the two groups. The Impact Network has teamed up with J. Alexander Martin, Co-Founder of the billion dollar international fashion brand FUBU. J. Alexander Martin, entrepreneur, author and now television host has come full circle; inking a promising and lucrative television venture titled,"Behind the Money," which will air exclusively on The Impact Network. J. Alexander Martin will enlighten viewers on not just how to find success, but also find significance. "Behind the Money" provides expert insight on wealth, demonstrating how to get it, keep it and control it without letting it control you. TV One received the esteemed 2018 Diversity Champion Award at the Walter Kaitz Foundation Dinner, and co-sponsored both the National Association of Multi-ethnicity in Communications (NAMIC) and the Women in Cable Television Leadership (WICT) Conferences held during Diversity Week in New York City Oct. 15-17 at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel. TV One General Manager and NAMIC's Board of Directors Immediate Past Chair Michelle Rice also served as the Honorary Co-Chair for the NAMIC Conference. TV One was recognized as an industry leader for its efforts in supporting diversity and inclusion. Urban One Founder Cathy Hughes, Urban One CEO Alfred Liggins, III, Michelle Rice and TV One executives joined notable leaders from the media and cable industry to celebrate the milestone achievement. David & Tamela Mann visit "The Wendy Williams Show" on behalf of their debut memoir "Us Against the World: Our Secrets to Love, Marriage, and Family" & TV One's "Merry Wishmas" Thursday, October 25, 2018. After having huge success with the title track from his latest album, “Your Great Name”, Todd Dulaney is back and ready to do it all again with his new record, “You’re Doing It All Again”. Pre-Sales are now available, Dulaney’s new anthem will be available everywhere November 1, 2018. The Grammy Noimnated worship artist has been traveling to Africa a lot over the past couple of years, and decided to record his latest single Live from Cape Town in South Africa. He actually recorded it at the same venue as the iconic “Alive in South Africa” record by Israel Houghton, and is the first worship artist since Houghton to record there. Dove Award winning, Grammy nominated artist Anthony Brown & group therAPy releases his new “I Got That” (remix) featuring up-and-coming rapper, 1K Phew, available NOW on all streaming and digital platforms. Brown & group therAPy debuted the remix to the chart-topping song in an outstanding performance on last night’s GMA Dove Awards (broadcast on TBN).In honor of Brown’s dedication in supporting the efforts of the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, his company, Key of A Music along with Tyscot Records and Fair Trade Services will donate a portion of proceeds of sales. In addition to his stellar performance, Brown also won the Dove Award for Contemporary Urban Gospel Album of the Year for his 2017 top-selling projectA LONG WAY FROM SUNDAY. Hear Anthony Brown In His Own Words......http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/anthonybrown_intvw.htm Several black churches in Nashville are making it easier for their church members to vote this midterm election by providing rides to the polls. The Interdenominational Ministers Fellowship announced Wednesday — the first day of early voting — that its members’ churches would be holding souls to the polls initiatives in order to get every registered voter in their congregations and surrounding communities into the voting booth. The Rev. James Turner II, president of IMF, shared those plans during a news conference at Jefferson Street Missionary Baptist Church. He spoke about how critical the Nov. 6 election is at all levels of government, including the need to support the controversial referendum to create a civilian oversight board of Nashville police. Christon Gray has released his latest album Clear The Heir, available now. The acclaimed rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer has filled his fourth solo album with the ferocity of sparkling wordplay, potent anthems, and personal tales he’s known for, strengthening the bond he’s forged with a wide range of listeners over his past three albums on hit songs such as “Stop Me,” “Open Door,” “Ft. Knox” and “Connor McDees.” Featuring the singles “Together Forever,” “Time Out,” and “Grow Up,” Gray bridges hip-hop, soul, R&B, and inspiration on Clear The Heir, taking fans on a journey baring reflections on family, relationships, and trials, discovering deeper meanings to inspire the spirit. Christon Gray says: “With this album, Clear The Heir, I wanted to give permission for people to feel comfortable in their uncomfortable skin, and I wanted Christians to feel permission to be human again.” The top-selling Gospel artist of the past year, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, offers her new live album Heart. Passion. Pursuit.: Live At Passion City Church, available for pre-order today. This one-of-a-kind project is the essential collection for Tasha Cobbs Leonard fans. Capturing the dynamic energy and spontaneous worship of Tasha's live performances, Heart. Passion. Pursuit.: Live At Passion City Church boasts over an hour of music and testimonies. Recorded this summer at Passion City Church in Atlanta, GA, Cobbs Leonard covers songs from her vast catalogue of music. Heart. Passion. Pursuit.: Live At Passion City Church is full of favorites including ";Break Every Chain," "I'm Getting Ready,""For Your Glory,' "Fill Me Up," "Gracefully Broken" and much more. The Grammy Award winner also shares riveting stories about her life, her music and her ministry.If you pre-order the album today can instantly download two songs—"You Know My Name (Live)" and"Put A Praise On It (Live)." dfree®, the global Financial Freedom Movement that has helped individuals and organizations pay down more than $1 million in debt, hosts its Homecoming Conference October 25th – 28th at First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens. TV One’s RICKEY SMILEY FOR REAL, will return for season five on Tuesday, October 30 at 8 p.m. ET/7C. The doc-u-series captures Smiley as he continues to navigate the ups and downs of professional demands, single fatherhood and intimate relationships. Shooting in Atlanta, where he resides during the week, and in his hometown of Birmingham, Alabama, where he raises his family, Smiley’s struggle to find work-life balance while trying to maintain a love life has become a central focus and source of laughter for fans of the show. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pxrjW0qFCPs&feature=youtu.be Friday, October 26th a dynamic Gospel concert featuring Grammy winner Bishop Hezekiah Walker and Gospel music darling Kierra Sheard.will go down. Anthony Brow & group Therapy wins Dove Award for Contemporary Gospel/Urban Album Of the Year. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdZWMKxJpDc After recording her first album independently in 2010, Anita Wilson later signed the “Worship Soul” album to a temporary license deal with a major record label. In 2017, the license term expired and Anita Wilson’s company, Reflection Media, Inc. began working tirelessly to reclaim ownership of this momentous, classic album. “Worship Soul” garnered Anita her first Grammy Nomination in 2013 for Best Gospel Album. This album brought us timeless tunes like the debut single “Speechless” and the smash “Jesus Will”. “I’m super grateful that the music continues to live and I have just one request: Please keep the music in your rotation!”, says the ever-evolving Music and Media Executive. Tauren Wells dominated the 49th annual Gospel Music Association's Dove Awards winning four of his eight nominations. Wells picked up four awards for Contemporary Christian Artist of the Year, New Artist of the Year, Rap / Hip Hop Recorded Song of the Year and Pop / Contemporary Album of the Year. Wells, who was the former lead singer for Christian rock group Royal Tailor, performed his number-one single "Known" from his solo debut album,"Hills and Valleys," and performed "War Cry" with show winners Social Club Misfits. RCA Inspiration garners three wins at the 49thAnnual GMA Dove Awards, as Travis Greene, Koryn Hawthorne and Marvin Sapp were honored for their hit songs. Travis Greene won his first Dove Award "Urban Worship Recorded Song of the Year" for “You Waited.” Koryn Hawthorne won her first Dove Award "Contemporary Gospel/Urban Recorded Song of the Year" “Won’t He Do It” (ft. Roshon Fegan). Marvin Sapp took home his second Dove Award, winning "Traditional Gospel Recorded Song of the Year" for “Close.” Additionally, Koryn Hawthorne took the main stage at the Dove Awards in a duet performance with Natalie Grant, marking their television debut together on “Speak the Name.” Marvin Sapp and Israel Houghton also presented awards on the show. Kirk Franklin joined Tori Kelly on the main stage in a first-time Dove Awards performance together of their song “Never Alone. J.J. Hairston & Youthful Praise, has just announced their upcoming 2-part live recording session in Nigeria and Landover, MD. The first recording will take place in Abuja, Nigeria on Tuesday, November 6th. It will be held at the COZA Auditorium and will feature Nigerian gospel artists, Mercy Chinwo and Tim Godfrey and The Gratitude. Godfrey is known for his song, "Nara," which features Travis Green and is currently the #1 gospel song in Africa. This recording will feature 7 songs and will be taped for video and audio. The second recording will take place December 31st at Hairston's home church, City of Praise in Landover, MD. It will feature Canton Jones. This recording will also feature 7 songs and will be taped for video and audio. The 49th Annual GMA Dove Award winners were announced last night during the awards ceremony at Allen Arena on the campus of Lipscomb University in Nashville. Jekalyn Carr earned her first Dove Award win for Traditional Gospel Album of the Year for her #1 album "One Nation Under God." In addition to her win, Jekalyn performed her chart-topping hit"You Will Win." The show was taped and will air on Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) on Sunday, October 21 at 8 p.m. CT. Chew Entertainment, lead by husband and wife producer team Ray Chew and Vivian Scott Chew are proud to announce the official launch of"Voice Your Inspiration"- a national competition in conjunction with RCA Inspiration. Due to an overwhelming response, the submission deadline for "Voice Your Inspiration" has been extended until October 22nd. In the continued effort and quest to discover and nurture new talent, Chew Entertainment, will partner with RCA Inspiration in looking for the next inspirational artist/duo/group. Thousands of businesswomen of faith determined to break through the glass ceiling are attending a three-day gathering to hone their skills across multiple fields including business, entrepreneurship, entertainment, healthcare, technology, finance and ministry. Bishop T.D. Jakes, entrepreneur and senior pastor of The Potter's House, tapped top female executives such as Cynthia Marshall, CEO of the Dallas Mavericks and Nona Jones, manager of global faith-based partnerships for Facebook, to equip women to overcome obstacles and elevate their influence. In addition, Michelle Williams, Grammy-award winning singer-songwriter and former member of Destiny's Child, will speak Friday evening and share her experience as a female entrepreneur, motivational speaker and mental health advocate. Williams will also discuss her new unscripted series, "Chad Loves Michelle," which premieres Saturday, Nov. 3, at 9 p.m. ET on OWN. The Lilly Endowment has donated a combined $70 million to dozens of Christian colleges and ministries across the nation to help them establish pastor support networks and programs in 29 states. The Indianapolis-based philanthropic organization is awarding 78 institutions nationwide grants ranging from $31,000 to $1 million through its Thriving in Ministry initiative to help develop or further programs to assist pastors in building relationships and help them deal with the wide range of issues they could face in urban, rural or suburban ministry life. Grantees include various theological schools, faith-based colleges and universities, church congregations, denominational agencies, independent religious organizations and religious communities that span mainline, evangelical, Catholic and orthodox Christian traditions. Tennessee author Dr. Zach Mills' biography of Chicago Gospel Music legend , preacher, and civil rights icon Rev. Clay Evans offers hope for connecting in a national climate plagued with racial tensions. The Last Blues Preacher: Rev. Clay Evans, Black Lives, and the Faith that Woke the Nation, released May 1st through Fortress Press includes interviews with historic figures like Rev. Jesse Jackson, Minister Louis Farrakhan, Fr. Michael Pfleger, former Chicago mayor Richard M. Daley, Congressman Bobby Rush, and former Illinois Governor Pat Quinn. We just finished the first leg of the Chicago tour and the book was so well received," said Mills, who serves as an adjuct public speaking instructor at Belmont University in Nashville." The book's message of unity is so relevant given our present political climate" Mills will extend his book tour to China during mid October, where he"ll facilitate communication and public speaking workshops in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) is proud to announce its 2018 award recipients, being honored for their commitment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and their bold leadership in the higher education, corporate and legal communities. This will take place at TCMF's 31st Anniversary Awards Gala, October 29th in Washington, DC at the Washington Marriott Wardman Park Hotel. TMCF's Anniversary Awards Gala is one of Washington's largest nonpolitical fundraising events, raising over $50 million since its inception in 1987. Queen Latifah says personal reasons are why she’s “unable to accept” an award named after a pioneering opera singer, The Marian Anderson Award made the announcement on its website that the 20th Anniversary gala and concert have been postponed. Anderson was the first black singer to perform at the Metropolitan Opera. The award is given in Philadelphia to critically acclaimed artists for their humanitarian work. Past winners have included Oprah Winfrey, Maya Angelou, and Quincy Jones. Queen Latifah won a Grammy for her 1994 album “Black Reign” and earned an Oscar nomination for her role in 2002’s “Chicago.” Chart-topper Travis Greene continues to be a dominating force, hailed for his unforgettable live performances and creating an anointing blend of musical influence and worship in his music that ignites audiences worldwide. Engaging hearts and minds together in ministry, the three-time GRAMMY® nominee, Billboard Music Award winner, and eleven-time Stellar Award-winning artist, songwriter and producer announces the See The Light Tour – playing over 20 dates in February and March 2019 across the United States, with Mosaic MSC joining him on the tour. Greene has also recorded the new single “See The Light” ft. Jekalyn Carr, which will be released on Friday October 19th. Tickets and VIP packages for select dates go on sale beginning Tuesday October 16th with the tour’s first show kicking off in Chattanooga, TN on February 14th, 2019. Former NFL quarterback turned activist Colin Kaepernick was awarded the prestigious W.E.B Dubois Medal by Harvard University, along with Dave Chappelle and several other activists and academics of color, for their contributions to black history and culture. All eight recipients were honored Thursday afternoon by the Hutchins Center for African and African American Research at Harvard. GRAMMY®-nominated singer/songwriter Brian Courtney Wilson’s popular single, “A Great Work,” tops the Billboard Gospel Airplay chart today. This is truly ‘a great work’ as the single represents Wilson’s first Billboard number 1 song, and is his fastest rising single of his career. In today’s cultural and political climate, the powerfully encouraging song has deeply connected with audiences.Traveling around the country, Brian has been offering strong performances of “A Great Work," sparking a movement of inspiration and optimism. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlDVJ9RHW-Q&feature=youtu.be UPCOMING GUESTS Monday 10/15/2018: On SISTER CIRCLE: LeToya Luckett and Ashley Darby from Real Housewives of Potomac. Tuesday 10/16/2018: On SISTER CIRCLE: Actor Jocko Sims from NBC's New Amsterdam Wednesday 10/17/2018: SISTER CIRCLE: Raheem DeVaughn, LaLa Milan, known as entertainer LaLaSizaHands, and Lenny Williams. Thursday 10/18/2018: SISTER CIRCLE:Grammy-winning music producer/philanthropist/actor David Banner, Friday 10/19/2018: SISTER CIRCLE: Warryn and Erica Campbell from TV One's We're The Campbells and R&B singer/songwriter Meli'sa Morgan. Following Jonathan McReynolds’ first #1 single at radio comes the release of “Make Room”, the title track and stand out song on his newest album! “Make Room” is a personal testimony of how Jonathan creates space in his own life for the word of God. The song leads with “I find space for what I treasure, and I make time for what I want, I choose my priorities and Jesus, you’re my number one.” Hear Jonathan McReynolds In His Own Words.....http://gospel-spotlight.com/jonathanmcreynolds.htm Hitmaking artist, songwriter, producer Christon Gray has released his newest song "Grow Up"! The hitmaker behind the widespread hit song "Stop Me," (featured on Madden NFL 19, and was featured on spots for Dwayne Johnson's blockbuster movie "Rampage," HBO's "Ballers," FOX's "Lethal Weapon" etc.) - has released this new track "Grow Up," a nostalgic throwback ruminating on childhood and young love - the latest song from his upcoming fourth album Clear The Heir. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JZVuXxROkY JOIN JUDAH BAND FOR THEIR LIVE NYC POP UP SHOWCASE ON OCTOBER 15. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6akexyyNFg&feature=youtu.be With over 20 years in the music industry, Terrell Hunt has sustained and continually refined his skills as a singer, songwriter and Worship leader. Since his 2009 Stellar Gospel Music Award nomination for New Artist of The Year, Terrell has continued to step outside the box to take creative liberties without compromising biblical messages and the Word of God. Terrell’s most recent release is his EP YOU DID IT. “You Did It (Worship Moment)” is a sweet and emotional worship ballad that features a powerhouse trio of female vocalists: Avery Sunshine, Nickie Conley, Jasmyne Hinson. Hear Terrell Hunt In His Own words....http://gospel-spotlight.com/terrellhunt_intvw.htm.......https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gf0TfM-oxGY&feature=youtu.be New episodes of TV One's UNSUNG HOLLYWOOD and UNCENSORED air on Sunday, October 14. Kicking off at 9 p.m. ET/8C with untold stories from singer/actor/reality TV star Ray J, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pfiecS7GqYk&feature=youtu.be TV One's UNSUNG HOLLYWOOD profiles influential black celebrities in Hollywood. UNCENSORED, which gives unprecedented access to your favorite personalities, at 10 p.m ET/9C showcasing singer K. Michelle. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlb8_fuCCHo&feature=youtu.be Titus Showers , lead singer of two-time Stellar Award nominated sibling group, The Showers’ has signed a solo record deal with his family owned record label A&P Records. The announcement was made today by the label’s Founder and CEO Regina Showers-Gordon. A&P Records plans to release a single 1st QTR 2019 with a full-length album expected in summer 2019. GRAMMY®-nominated hit-making producer and BMI’s 2016 Songwriter of the Year honoree Lucius B. Hoskins, who’s worked with the likes of Shirley Ceaser, Zacardi Cortez, Joshua Rogers and Marvin Sapp has been tapped as the album’s producer. Titus will make his first appearance as a solo artist next week as a Presenter at the GMA Dove Awards Pre-Telecast in Nashville, TN on Tuesday, October 16. A Gospel Spotlight News Exclusive: Meet Krystal A Livingston. Krystal has a new album out and we will talk about that along with her about music, life and how she stays motivated. Hear Krystal A Livingston In Her Own Words.....http://gospel-spotlight.com/krystalalivingston_intvw.htm Kanye West went on an extended rant in the Oval Office on Wednesday at the beginning of a working lunch with President Trump, where he dropped the F bomb, talked about his Bipolar Disorder diagnosis, pounded on the Resolute Desk and gave the president a hug. West said that he has come to understand that ‘bravery helps you beat this game called life’ and that he misdiagnosed with a mental health disease when he was really just sleep deprived in a 10-minute speech, followed by nearly 10 minutes of questions, in which he labeled himself a ‘crazy motherf***er,’ called the amendment that ended slavery a ‘trap door’ and said it should be abolished and joked about running for president in 2024. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gdvgxdcfV4g&feature=youtu.be Gospel artist Charles Butler, a veteran from Washington, D.C. announced his major weight loss of over 200lbs this past weekend at The Spirit of Praise Concert sponsored by Radio One's Praise 104.1. This campaign and life style change all began last year as a partnership with Radio One DC along with Decalo Weight Loss, Wellness, and Pain Management Clinic in an effort to not only lose the weight, but encourage others to make it. After the success of his album, Make It, which debuted in 2016 and received two Stellar Award Nominations with its self-titled single, "Make It," Butler decided he could no longer encourage people to make it and not make it himself. Gospel Spotlight on Major. He give you hits like "Why I Love You" and Honest." Now he is rockin' Better. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gpb-S2KxeEQ Mary Mary on the Red Carpet of the American Music Awards. Talking about honoring Aretha Franklin. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TMD7vLzYITo Fred "Uncle Freddie" Jerkins III, President and founder of DarkChild Gospel’s new cancer awareness project, “A Project of Healing,” is available at all digital music selling outlets now. The first of a series of gospel and mainstream compilation albums that will benefit cancer awareness, empowerment and education. The album features collaborations with Bishop Paul S. Morton, Lowell Pye, Darlene McCoy, Alexis Spight, Jonathan Nelson, Juanita Francis, Darwin Hobbs, Y’anna Crawley, Joann Rosario-Condrey, Preashea Hilliard, Trin-I-Tee 5:7 and more. In alliance with Jerkins’ heart for new artists, the album also showcases new artists; Last Call, Joel Andrus and Rozina. Hear Fred Jerkins In His Own Words....http://gospel-spotlight.com/fredjerkins_intvw.htm The Impact Network, the only African American owned and operated Christian television network in the United States, which is available in more than 82 Million cable and satellite homes in the USA and features programming on urban ministries and gospel lifestyle entertainment, has teamed up with Paul Crouch Jr., the son of founder of the Trinity Broadcasting Network, (TBN) the largest Christian Television Network in the World. The Impact Network's mission is to provide exceptional Christian and educational programming. It empowers the spiritual, physical, financial and emotional needs of the community and viewers. The network line-up includes television ministries by Impact CEO & President Bishop Wayne T. Jackson, Creflo Dollar, Bishop TD Jakes, Bishop IV Hilliard, and Bishop Charles Blakes, just to name a few. Impact also offers original programming like, The National Action Network "Live" with the Rev. Al Sharpton, The Rainbow Push Coalition "Live" with Rev. Jesse Jackson, At Three with Dr. Juanita Bynum, The Jewel Tankard Show, legendary gospel icon Dr. Bobby Jones, featuring some of today hottest gospel artists, Impact Better Health/Diet Free Life with Dr. Robert Ferguson, and even clean Christian comedy specials entitled, Laugh with Me. The Impact Network has programming the whole family can watch and enjoy together. Chance the Rapper says he’s donating $1 million to help improve mental health services in Chicago. The Chicago native announced the news during his second annual summit for his nonprofit SocialWorks, which he streamed live via Twitter. Six different mental wellness providers will receive $100,000 grants in Cook County, Illinois. Chance called the new initiative My State of Mind, which will serve as a mental health resource for Chicagoans. THE “2018 AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS®” TO HONOR ARETHA FRANKLIN WITH SPECIAL TRIBUTE: Soul and Gospel Legends Gladys Knight, Ledisi, Mary Mary, Donnie McClurkin and CeCe Winans to Headline Performance Honoring the Queen of Soul The Live Broadcast Will Air Tonite, Tuesday, October 9th at 8:00 p.m. ET on ABC Kerry Douglas has created another masterpiece with the 10th installment of his best-selling Gospel Mix CD series and Gospel Music’s Ultimate Mix Tape, Kerry Douglas Gospel Mix X (BlackSmoke Music Worldwide/eOne). The 19 track-set hits Walmart and online digital retailers Friday, October 26, 2018. Seth and Nirva- "In The River" is an awesome and inspiring new song from this incredible duo. We have seen time and time again how the broken cisterns of this world leave us dry and empty. It is only the river of God bubbling and springing up in our hearts that frees us to become what we were meant to be now and forever (John 4:13-14) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H24h4wzzUgk&feature=youtu.be PJ Morton - "Everything's Gonna Be Alright" (Live) (feat. BJ the Chicago Kid & The HamilTones) Checkout the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qekzp_oI8dE&feature=youtu.be Riding high on the success of his new #1 hit single “Open Your Mouth and Say Something!", Brent Jones headlines the Triumphant Servants Awards on Sun, Oct 14th! Honoring and recognizing prolific Pastors and outstanding local organizations that enhance an contribute to our community - Bishops Ron Gibson & Roger Thomas, Pastors Michael Hart & Joshua Beckley, 100 Black Men (Inland Empire) and the NAACP Riverside Chapter. Adrienne Bailon and Israel Houghton shared their love story with MadameNoire and their tale of unconditional love is certainly one fans who have been supporting the couple through rumors and intrusion will appreciate. Israel never wanted to marry again after divorcing his first wife, Meleasa Houghton, in 2016 after more than 20 years of marriage, but as noted by madamenoire.com…Adrienne’s acceptance of him made all the difference. “She was the first person that made me feel like you don’t have to hide in order to be accepted,” he told the site. “She was the first person that said I’ll accept everything because I like you, I love you, all of that. It’s the first relationship I’ve ever been in where I felt celebrated and not tolerated. I’ll walk into the house and there’s just this sense of truly, ‘welcome home,’ and I tell you what, a guy will break his neck to experience that kind of love, that kind of like, that kind of celebration.” The world-renowned music and entertainment experience AFRICA UMOJA – which has garnered critical acclaim and standing ovations – will present a special celebration during its third USA Tour this Fall. Hailing from South Africa, the Africa Umoja USA Tour 2018 kicks off its new tour starting September 22nd in Washington DC. Running September 22ndto November 9th, the tour marks a centennial celebration of beloved late South African leader Nelson Mandela’s birthday, who would have turned 100 years old on July 18th earlier this year. Chart-topping recording artist Jason Nelson celebrates his latest single atop the charts as his live hit song “Forever,” tops the Gospel Airplay chart at #1. The lead single from his chart-topping fifth solo album The Answer, the Stellar Award-winning acclaimed singer, songwriter, and producer also releases a new live performance video of “Forever.” Jason Nelson says: “I’m humbled that the world has embraced this message of the love that The Lord has for us. It’s even being expressed in weddings around the country. Love never fails.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2p9ccAGJCgc The multiple award- winning singer CeCe Winans has emerged from the studio with a glorious arrangement of tracks just in time for the holiday season. Once again, Winans team up with son Alvin Love III to present, Something’s Happening! A Christmas Album. The mother-son team walked away with two Grammy awards for their collaboration on, Let Them Fall in Love earlier this year. The duo snagged Best Gospel Album and Best Gospel Performance/Song in top categories. Love penned five new songs for this spirit-filled Christmas album, incorporating five classic tunes with a distinctive musical twist. He went the extra mile and invited the Zagreb Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Tim Akers to make a guest appearance on the album recorded at Vatroslav Lisinski Concert Hall in Zagreb, Croatia. Hear CeCe Winans In Her Own Words....http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/cece_winans.htm In keeping with the rich Motown tradition, Motown Gospel to release an all-new Christmas album “A MOTOWN GOSPEL CHRISTMAS” this month. Available for pre-order today on all digital platforms,“A MOTOWN GOSPEL CHRISTMAS” offers a timeless collection of holiday classics, never-before heard tracks all performed by the legendary label’s acclaimed roster of artists. The soulful and soul-stirring project is an instant must-have for any holiday music collection. Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Lexi, Brian Courtney Wilson, Kenny Lattimore, Danny Gokey and more are featured. The award-winning Mississippi Mass Choir to appear on Discovery Channel's #1 series "Expedition Unknown." The episode entitled "Search For The Afterlife – Heaven and Hell," explores religions and cultures from around the world. It will air on the Discovery Channel on Sunday, October 7, 2018, 9:00PM CT / 10:00PM ET. Mississippi Mass Choir for thirty years, has touched gospel fans. Some faces have changed, but the choir's mission remains the same; evangelizing the world in song. Reaching down to the root of this gospel powerhouse, one finds a very humble beginning. Frank Williams, founder of the group, began singing gospel music in churches as a child, spending his evenings immersed in the sounds and ways of the gospel under the guiding hand of his father, Leon. Frank performed with his siblings, the acclaimed Williams Brothers. IMG Artists, today’s leading global performing arts management agency, announces a 36-city North American tour with multi-genre recording artist Damien Sneed. The Sphinx Medal of Excellence recipient will bring his brand of classical, jazz, and gospel music to “We Shall Overcome: A Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., featuring Damien Sneed.” The tour will kick off on Friday, January 11, 2019, at the Empire Center at The Egg in Albany, NY, and will make stops at concert halls and universities in the U.S. and Canada. The tour will conclude on March 3 at the Gallo Center for the Arts in Modesto, CA The Gospel Music Association (GMA) announced that Kelontae Gavin will perform and present at this years 2018 Dove Awards Pre – Telecast. Kelontae will perform “No Ordinary Worship.” The song is from his debut album *The Higher Experience. On October 18-20, Kelontae Gavin will make his first appearance at T.D. Jakes’ ministries three-day Woman, Thou Art Loose Master Class conference as a guest artist, going down at The P.L.A.C.E., the new event center developed by the Potter’s House in Dallas, TX. The gathering will hosts thousands of women to help them strengthen their skill sets, cast vision for success and advance in their spheres of influence. Power couple David and Tamela Mann are embarking on the second installment of their critically-acclaimed, "Us Against The World: Mann Family Tour.” The Mann's family national concert tour kicks off on Oct. 11 and will make stops in 20 cities, ending in Cincinnati, OH Nov. 11. Immediately following the tour, David and Tamela will release their new memoir, Us Against the World: Our Secrets to Love, Marriage, and Family available November 13, 2018. In their new memoir, the couple candidly shares an inspiring, funny, and up-close look at their lives while offering hope and practical advice for building a strong relationship, marriage and family. Hear Tamela Mann In her Own Words....http://gospel-spotlight.com/tamelamann_intvw.htm Joshua Rogers has reason to celebrate his return to music after a five year recording hiatus. Rogers current radio single "Pour Your Oil," has cracked Top 15 on the Gospel Airplay chart this week. This marks Joshua's highest radio charting position in his career. "Pour Your Oil," written by Lucius B. Hoskins, Marcus McFarlin, Tyrone Belle and Gary Crockett is the lead single from Rogers' recently released third album RETURNING. The song is a personal testimony for Rogers who has openly talked about depression due to his career, finances and health. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Your favorite Renaissance Man is Back! Gold and Platinum selling Gospel/Jazz Pianist, bestselling author, reality TV star, private pilot and pastor, Ben Tankard has been thrilling us with Gospel/Jazz for nearly three decades. His new album RISE! promises to be some of his best work yet! “I am super excited about this record because I was able to instrumentally remake three time-honored classics that have been true to my heart for years,” says Tankard. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJWf77HN1cY&feature=youtu.be The Gospel Music Association (GMA) announced all-star presenters for the 49th Annual GMA Dove Awards, including Bart Millard, Bill Gaither, Dr. Bobby Jones, Chris Tomlin, Deborah Joy Winans, Devon Franklin, Jasmine Murray, Mark Lowry, Marvin Sapp, Matt Maher, Matthew West, Pat Barrett, Ricky Dillard, Russ Taff and Tasha Cobbs Leonard. The awards show will be held live on October 16 in Nashville, Tennessee and will air exclusively on TBN October 21 at 8 p.m. CT. Previously announced performers include Big Daddy Weave, Cory Asbury, Jekalyn Carr, for KING & COUNTRY, Kirk Franklin, Koryn Hawthorne, Lauren Daigle, Natalie Grant, Newsboys, Social Club Misfits, Tauren Wells, Tori Kelly, Zach Williams and Jason Crabb with Rascal Flatts. www.doveawards.com. Groundbreaking social media marketing platform Intercept Music has signed Larry Blackwell as a Brand Ambassador in the Gospel genre. The former VP/GM of EMI/Motown Gospel, Blackwell has been a force in the music industry for more than 40 years, with his artists amassing 15 Grammy® awards and sales of millions of albums. As Brand Ambassador for Intercept Music, Blackwell will drive adoption of the marketing platform, and share his decades of expertise, with artists eager to build their audiences, their skills and their careers. Ralph Tashjian, chairman of Intercept Music, made the announcement. Doe Jones (Dominique Jones) formerly known member of GRAMMY, Stellar and Dove Award nominated “foreverJones" has announced her new music t"Deepest Part" is set to release digitally October 23rd. This week the recording artist also revealed the cover art for the upcoming single. Doe’s highly anticipated announcement hit social media and have fans, supporters including many in the industry excited for the upcoming release. Her signature voice, eclectic creativity and sound has been heard on songs like “Cycles” by Jonathan McReynolds and leading "He Wants It All" by foreverJONES. Earlier this month "He Wants It All" was included on Motown Gospel's 20 year compilation album. Culminating 30 years of service through educating, mobilizing and empowering Black leaders to address and proactively fight the HIV/AIDS epidemic and other health disparities facing African Americans, the National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS, Inc. (NBLCA) will host a Gospel Extravaganza concert at Harlem's historic Aaron Davis Hallat the City College Center for the Arts on Thursday, October 25. The event will feature a stellar line-up of leading voices in Gospel music and recognize dedicated community and corporate leaders with NBLCA's "Choose Life" Awards. NBLCA's Gospel Extravaganza will benefit the organization's extensive programs and services for communities of color living with and impacted by HIV/AIDS and other health disparities. Performing live at the event will be Richard Smallwood and joining Richard Smallwood will be JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise. TV One is set to debut new episodes of its original, documentary series UNSUNG HOLLYWOOD and UNCENSORED on Sunday, October 7. Kicking off at 9 p.m. ET/8C with never before told stories of the film classic "The Best Man," tUNSUNG HOLLYWOOD profiles influential black celebrities in Hollywood. UNCENSORED, which gives unprecedented access to your favorite personalities, follows at 10 p.m ET/9C featuring actor/host/entrepreneur Nick Cannon. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTnv5xf0Qrg&feature=youtu.be The world is mourning the passing of super producer, singer, songwriter and musician extraordinaire James “Big Jim” Wright. Wright passed away at his home in Rockford, Illinois on September 30th. Big Jim is beloved for his work as a singer and producer with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis and his longtime association with Gary Hines and the Sounds of Blackness. Wright is heard singing on such classics as Soul Holiday and The Lord Will Make A Way. Wright has worked with Patti Labelle, Janet Jackson, Sting, Elton John, Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin, Rod Stewart, Yolanda Adams and the Isley Brothers. He served as an executive producer, and writer for the feature film, Fighting Temptation, starring Beyonce and Cuba Gooding, Jr. The winner of 3 Grammy awards, 1 NAACP award, 1 Dove award and 7 ASCAP awards, Big Jim won the Grammy Award for Best Gospel Song for Yolanda Adams’ “Be Blessed” and was nominated for Album Of The Year for his work on Mariah Carey’s 6x platinum album The Emancipation of Mimi which contains 3 tracks produced by Wright including the inspirational hit “Fly Like A Bird,” which he co-wrote in 2006. He served as bandleader for BET’s The Mo’nique Show, music supervisor/composer for BET’s Let’s Stay Together on BET, and music director/show producer for BET’s Sunday Best. UPCOMING GUESTS ON THIS WEEK'S SISTER CIRCLE Monday 10/1/2018: On today's episode Rickey Smiley and Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Anthony David. Tuesday 10/2/2018: Today on SISTER CIRCLE: Film and TV producer Datari Turner, domestic violence advocate Christy Sims. Wednesday 10/3/2018: SISTER CIRCLE sits down with Lil Mama. Thursday 10/4/2018: On today's SISTER CIRCLE, chef Melvin "Boots" Johnson from Chopped. Friday 10/5/2018: On SISTER CIRCLE Dr. Jackie Walters from Married to Medicine, Momma Dee and Ernest Bryant from Love and Hip-Hop Atlanta and Christian artist Tauren Wells. The rich vocals of Gospel artist and worship leader Michele Sweeting have been catching the attention of fans in her hometown of New York City since her rendition of Richard Smallwood’s “Center of My Joy” soared to #1 on Gospel charts in the Big Apple. Since that time, she’s been treating sacred music lovers to songs like “Lamb of God,” “Thank You” and “Mirror”. Now the evangelist and Motor City Praise Recording Artist returns with a brand new single entitled, “New Thing” and it’s just the type of inspiration that Gospel music fans enjoy. Penned by Stellar Award Winner Curtis Turrentine, Jr. and based on Isaiah 43:19, the ballad’s lyrics encourage believers to allow the Lord to do a new thing in their lives. Verity Records has released a collection of renowned Gospel classics, featuring the formidable influence of a who’s-who among Gospel icons and chart-topping hit makers on the 10-song album Verity Presents The Classics. Available now exclusively at Walmart, the collection highlights some of the biggest Gospel hits in recent history, and the inspiring resilience of Gospel spanning over 20 years since Verity’s founding in 1994, with songs from Yolanda Adams, Byron Cage, Kurt Carr, Fred Hammond, Donnie McClurkin, J. Moss, Jason Nelson, Marvin Sapp, Hezekiah Walker, and The New Life Community Choir feat. John P. Kee. Dick Clark productions and ABC announced an all-star lineup of soul and gospel legends who will come together to pay homage to the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, at the “2018 American Music Awards.” Gladys Knight, Ledisi, Mary Mary, Donnie McClurkin and CeCe Winans, friends of the late, luminary singer/songwriter, will take the AMAs stage for a moving tribute honoring Franklin’s gospel roots and iconic gospel album, Amazing Grace. Consulting Producer for the tribute is the Emmy Award® winning music director, composer and producer, Rickey Minor. Hosted by Tracee Ellis Ross, the “2018 American Music Awards,” the world’s largest fan-voted awards show, will broadcast live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Tuesday, October 9, 2018 at 8:00 p.m. ET on ABC. Six-time GRAMMY® winner and world-renowned artist, songwriter and producer, Israel Houghton, released his latest album, Road To DeMaskUs. The title of the eleven-track album is a reference to the Biblical story of the Apostle Paul’s transformation and reflects the masks that people wear to hide their pain and insecurities. Road To DeMaskUs includes “Reckless Love,” “Free Indeed (You Said I Am)” and “Promise Keeper” with Travis Greene as well as the duets, “Secrets” and “I’m With You / Be Still,” with Houghton’s wife, artist and EMMY winning co-host of The Real, Adrienne Houghton. The album features guest appearances from The Walls Group and Chevelle Franklyn, Today, Houghton also premiered the video for “Secrets,” which was directed by actress Meagan Good, on BET Gospel and BET.com. And the Houghtons performed the song for the first time on television today on The Real. They will also perform together on the Hallmark Channel’s Home & Family on October 8th. LUCINDA MOORE returns with a new song she wrote after being told by a surgeon that her heart stopped on the table having spinal surgery in 2015. "STILL ALIVE (I SURVIVED)" is a testimony that will touch the souls of everybody who hears it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZP3ybkZ8Y2I&feature=youtu.be OWN announced new unscripted series that will join the network’s successful Saturday night lineup: “Chad Loves Michelle,” “Family or Fiancé” and “Rocket City Revival.” (working title) . “Chad Loves Michelle” featuring Michelle Williams of Destiny’s Child and Pastor Chad Johnson navigating the road from engagement to marriage will premiere Saturday, November 3 (9-10 p.m. ET/PT). Additionally, box office hitmaker Will Packer’s previously announced new dating series “Ready to Love” hosted by Thomas “Nephew Tommy” Miles (“The Steve Harvey Morning Show”) is set for a two-night premiere on OWN Tuesday, October 23 (10-11 p.m. ET/PT) and Saturday, October 27 (10-11 p.m. ET/PT) and will air Saturdays at 10 p.m. for the remainder of its series run. “OWN viewers are looking for real and honest stories that are relatable to their own lives,” said Erik Logan, president of OWN. “These new shows all feature passionate relationships and the desire to keep love alive and will captivate viewers from the very beginning. Sometimes life gets in the way. For Will Downing, The Prince of Sophisticated Soul, more than two decades of critical and commercial success as a singer was suddenly at risk-along with his life. There's a long, rich tradition in the Black church of testifying, sharing "testimony" about a point of great adversity in life, when the power of God and prayer turn everything around against all odds-that "low point" marking a test, God's test of faith. In late 2007, in the very prime of his life, Will Downing faced an almost unimaginable test. A sudden onset of the auto-immune disease polymyositis threatened everything he held dear: his health, his ability to provide for his family, his musical gifts, and life itself. Weak, frail and nearly paralyzed, he did not curse God, but instead said a prayer: "Lord you see me through this and I promise I will give you all the honor, all the praise...wherever I go." He didn't turn away from God and God didn't turn away from him. Twelve years later, Will Downing is a walking, singing testimony of the power of faith and prayer. And he delivers on his promise with his new CD, THE PROMISE, an inspirational album-actually his first gospel album -- to be released November 9, 2018 by Shanachie Entertainment. https://soundcloud.com/shanachie-1/will-downing-look-at-yourself-in-the-mirror Multiple Emmy Award winner Candice Bergen returns in the revival of the groundbreaking comedy series “Murphy Brown,” which premieres Thursday, Sept. 27 on the CBS Television Network. And the premiere will reportedly include a tribute to the late Aretha Franklin. “We did do something in the first episode” to acknowledge Franklin’s passing, creator Diane English confirms for TVLine. The “Queen of Soul” died last month at the age of 76. As noted by TV Line, “Franklin’s music was a huge part of the original Murphy Brown, with her iconic song “Respect” being featured in the pilot episode and Candice Bergen’s title character (a big fan of Franklin’s) singing “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” to her infant son in the Season 4 finale. Franklin herself even guest-starred in a 1991 episode, singing a duet alongside Bergen.” Respect and admiration was the theme at the Microsoft Theater at LA Live in Downtown Los Angeles on Tuesday night as dozens of celebrities participated in an all-star 85th birthday salute to music legend Quincy Jones. Although his actual birthday was March 14th, this special tribute was recorded and will air in December on BET. Oprah Winfrey, who first gained national fame as Sophia in the Jones-produced movie, “The Color Purple,” headlined the event. She made two on-screen appearances: one on stage and another from the audience standing next to the musical genius, as she paid homage to her longtime friend. Jones, who could be considered a modern-day Mozart or the Black Beethoven with his incredible body of work that spans over six decades, enjoyed the evening immensely. The two sat side-by-side during the entire show. Oprah was seen having a great time moving to the beats of Jones’ music performed by various artists including Stevie Wonder, Brian McKnight, Fantasia, Jennifer Hudson, Ledisi, Gregory Porter and Meghan Trainor. Actor Geoffrey Owens went viral when a photo of him working at Trader Joe’s surfaced. Amid the backlash and job-shaming, there was some good that came out of it — Owens was offered scripts from Tyler Perry and “NCIS: New Orleans,” and the 57-year-old received a donation from Nicki Minaj. The rapper gave him $25,000 to show her support, adding, “Some people are on the Internet and seeking attention, and he’s just the antithesis of that. Owens decided to give the money to charity, "I would like to give this donation of 25k to the Actor’s Fund in memory of the late, great Earle Hyman — who played Cosby’s father, ‘Russell’, on “The Cosby Show” — who lived his last many years and died at the Actors’ Home, (funded and run by the Actor’s Fund). I am extremely grateful to Nicki Minaj for enabling struggling actors to continue pursuing their dreams.” Owens is on a roll after Hollywood came to his defense he has landed yet another role, this time opposite Hilary Swank, Michael Ealy, and Mike Colter in the noir thriller “Fatale,” which is being directed by Deon Taylor. If there’s one thing we know about Tyler Perry it’s that he’s a renown giver. He just did it again when he gifted a house to the mother of a woman he worked with nearly 20 years ago!!! Perry paid $350,000 for a Georgia house and gave it to the ailing mother of LaShun Pace, who worked alongside Tyler on a play all the way back in 1999, according to TMZ: Perry stays in touch with a lot of his actors … but this heartwarming story takes the cake. Tyler and LaShun stayed in touch ever since they worked on a play Perry wrote and co-produced two decades ago … and his connection to the Pace family runs deep. LaShun’s family makes up a Gospel group called The Pace Sister and Tyler put one of their songs in “Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Family Reunion.” The bottom line is that when Tyler Perry learned Bettie Pace had fallen ill and her dying wish was to own a home big enough for her large family, he stepped up and bought a property close to where the Paces were born and raised in Atlanta. Riding high on the success of his new #1 hit single “Open Your Mouth and Say Something!” (Billboard's #1 Most Added Song at Radio), Brent Jones’ new #1 CD & Songbook hits a stunning 13 Billboard charts - including Billboard's prestigious Top 200 pop chart!. "The response to Open Your Mouth and Say Something has been simply overwhelming! To God be the glory for awesome things He has done" says Brent Jones. "We've been touring non-stop all year and I still marvel at all the churches embracing my music, what an honor - good choir music is still alive & thriving! Remember, no matter what you're going through, you still have to 'Open Your Mouth' and give God all the praise for He alone is worthy!" http://gospel-spotlight.com/album_rvw.htm Hiding Place – GRAMMY®-nominated artist Tori Kelly’s new passion project – has set the record for the most first-week streams ever for a gospel album. The collection, which was produced by 12-time GRAMMY Award winner Kirk Franklin, debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums chart and had the highest-selling week of any 2018 gospel album. Hiding Place also topped Billboard’s Gospel Streaming Songs and Gospel Digital Song Sales charts plus the Apple Music Christian genre chart. Tori was joined by Kirk Franklin and a choir last night when she performed the lead single, “Never Alone,” on “The Late Late Show with James Corden.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6iCoJfz0-wc&app=desktop Bill Cosby will do prison time for his sexual assault conviction. Specifically he will serve 3 to 10 Years in a Pennsylvania state prison and the the judge has denied Cosby bail. It appears he’s headed straight to lockdown. In fact, he has been remanded and will be locked up immediately. Courthouse witnesses say Cosby emptied his pockets and removed his tie before being taken into custody. If he serves the full term, he’ll be 91 when he’s released. Be sure to tune in to the 3rd Annual 2018 Black Music Honors television special hosted by Rickey Smiley and LeToya Luckett airing nationally on Saturday, September 29 at 1:00am ET, and Sunday, September 30 at 12:00pm ET on BOUNCE. The must-see show celebrated the unparalleled legacies of several esteemed music icons including Grammy ®Award-winning singer, songwriter and actress Stephanie Mills (Legends Award); celebrated singer/actor Bobby Brown (R&B Soul Music Icon Award); acclaimed gospel artists BeBe and CeCe Winans (Gospel Music Icon Award); multi-platinum, Grammy® Award-winning recording artist Faith Evans (Urban Music Icon Award); renowned rap duo Whodini (Hip Hop Icon Award); and chart-topping music producer and label executive Dallas Austin (Music Innovator Icon Award). https://vimeo.com/288645789 Earlier this month Lexi underwent a successful surgery to remove a large, benign polyp, which her doctors discovered during a routine screening. She disclosed news of the surgery on social media, the evening before entering the hospital, as an urgent reminder to her followers of the importance of early screenings and regular check-ups. “My surgeon said that most people put these types of check-ups off until later,” shares Lexi. “Based on the pathology report, had I not come in when I did, he shared that I would have had full-blown cancer in one to two years.” According to the American Journal of Pathology, African Americans have the highest incidence and mortality rates of colorectal cancer (CRC) of any ethnic group in the United States. Dr. Beverly “Bam” Crawford highly respected and beloved Pastor will host the “23rd Annual L.A.M.P.S. (Leaders, Apostolic, Maturing, & Mentoring Prophetic Servants/Seminars) Conference.” This four-day conference will be held on Sunday, October 21-Wednesday, October 24, 2018 at Bible Enrichment Fellowship International Church, Inglewood, CA. The Leadership Luncheon will be held on Wednesday, October 24th This year’s theme is “Legacy – Apostolic & Prophetic Synergy”. This popular annual conference is a leadership and mentoring ministry birthed to provide enriched teaching, fellowship, counseling, mentoring and training for leaders (armed with the necessary knowledge) to stand in the forefront and steer this next generation. The Stellar Awards Set for Friday, March 29, 2019 It Returns to the Orleans Arena, Las Vegas, NV details forthcoming. Pastor John Gray and his family hosted a private advanced screening of Warner Bros. upcoming animated feature film Smallfoot at The Grove’s Pacific Theater, September 20th. The screening was for a small selection of the Gray’s closest family and friends, which include Meagan Good, Devon Franklin, Royalty Brown, Nia Guzman, GooGoo Atkins, among others. Smallfoot starring Lebron James, Common, Yara Shahidi, Zendaya, Channing Tatum, James Corden, Danny DeVito, and Gina Rodriguez, premieres in theaters on September 28th. On Wednesday September 26, 2018 - Friday September 28, 2018 Bishop J. Drew Sheard Sr., of Detroit Michigan, will host the annual Pentecostal Explosion 2018, “Fueling The Fire” conference. Bishop Sheard is the senior pastor of Greater Emmanuel Institutional COGIC in Detroit which is also the location of the conference. On Wednesday September 26, 2018, conference host Bishop J. Drew Sheard will be the speaker. Psalmist Jason Nelson will be ministering in song on Friday. Back by popular demand is Dr. Todd Hall Sr., of Orlando, FL in the 10 p.m. late night service on Friday night to close the conference. The 2019 National Convention for the Gospel Music Workshop of America (GMWA) will be held in Washington, D.C., July 27 – August 3, 2019. The 2019 Board meeting details will be forthcoming, Today, multi-GRAMMY® Award winning recording artist and songwriter, Carvin Winans, released a new single entitled “Once in a Lifetime”. The song, which is available via all major digital providers, is the first track from Winans’ debut solo album, In The Softest Way, which will release at the top of 2019. Carvin Winans, who began singing at age four, launched his career over 30 years ago with his brothers as part of the iconic group, The Winans. Together the Winans brothers went on to release several GRAMMY® Award-winning and gold-selling records. Carvin Winans also established himself as a sought-after songwriter, penning hits for other artists including, Whitney Houston, Regina Belle, Peabo Bryson, Vanessa Bell Armstrong and Winans Phase II. After releasing one of the most successful songs in Christian music history, Christon Gray’s back with his brand new song, ‘Time Out’. After seeing ‘Stop Me’ dominate the industry over the last two years*, Gray learned you don’t have to sugar coat the message of Jesus to reach new fans. Staying true to that theme, ‘Time Out’ is an anthem ready made for stadiums, radios and smart phones. With thunderous drums and triumphant horns acting as the sound bed, Gray faces all challenges in his life head on as the chorus states, ‘I ain’t never callin’ Time Out’. But it’s the music video that has everyone talking. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOJghSgc5ZQ Six-time GRAMMY® winning artist, songwriter, and producer Israel Houghton releases the new song “Secrets” featuring his wife Adrienne Houghton. Opening his new album Road To DeMaskUs, “Secrets” (feat. Adrienne Houghton) is available as an instant grat track upon album pre-order. Out on September 28th, the album also features the instant grat songs “Reckless Love,” “Promise Keeper” (feat. Travis Greene), and “Free Indeed (You Said I Am),” as well as “I’m With You / Be Still” (feat. Adrienne Houghton), “Love Never Fails” and more. Sharing a powerful message on God’s enduring love and transforming power, Israel and Adrienne Houghton will perform “Secrets” on her syndicated daytime show “The Real.” Airing on September 28th, “The Real” episode marks the live television debut of their duet. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=plGtNDz3FY4 GOD FRIENDED ME is a humorous, uplifting drama about an outspoken atheist whose life is turned upside down when he receives a friend request on social media from "God" and unwittingly becomes an agent of change in the lives and destinies of others around him. Miles Finer is intelligent, hopeful and optimistic, but he doesn't believe in God. This puts him at odds with his father, Reverend Arthur Finer, a beloved preacher at Harlem's Trinity Church for 25 years who is stunned by his son's strong rejection of his faith. Miles feels he's found his purpose in life hosting a podcast where he's free to speak his mind, but that changes when he receives the ultimate friend request. After repeated pokes by "God,"Miles' curiosity takes over, and he accepts the request and follows the signs to Cara Bloom, an online journalist suffering from writer's block. Brought together by the"God" account, the two find themselves investigating "God's" friend suggestions and inadvertently helping others in need. During the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's (CBCF) 48th Annual Phoenix Award Dinner at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C., Aretha Franklin was named the first recipient of the John R. Lewis Award of Courage by the CBCF and the organization's chairperson, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas). The award was presented by Lewis, Jackson Lee and Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence of (D-Michigan). Hosted by actors Lamman Rucker and Vivica A. Fox, the Phoenix Awards also honored Lee Porter, Executive Director of The Fair Housing Council of Northern New Jersey; Bryan Stevenson, founder and Executive Director of the Equal Justice Initiative; Tommy Smith and John Carlos, 1968 Olympians and activists; the Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr., and Mrs. Jacqueline Brown Jackson, among other presentations, tributes, and performances. The event also included a keynote address by the Rev. Dr. William J. Barber, II, Pastor of Greenleaf Christian Church in Goldsboro, N.C. Dove and Stellar Gospel Music Award nominated music veteran, Bryan Andrew Wilson, ?has created a smooth, breezy soundtrack to close the incredibly hot summer of 2018. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1u9_DpNOZ1E The National Museum of Gospel Music Concert is set to once again take center state during Gospel Music Heritage Month. Former President Barack Obama designated September as Gospel Music Heritage Month. This year the concertwill go down Thursday, September 27 at the Apostolic Faith Church in Chicago, IL. The FREE concert will start at 6p.m. and doors will open at 5p.m., you must have a ticket which can be obtained from Billbusters stores throughout Chicago. Artists currently confirmed to perform include Donnie McClurkin, Kirk Franklin, Marvin Sapp, Tamela Mann, Pastor Charles Jenkins, Ricky Dillard, Janice Gaines, JJ Hairston, Sir the Baptist, Jonathan McReynolds and Israel Houghton. The 2018 performance will be hosted by Dr. Bobby Jones and Inspiration 1390 & V103 On Air Host, Sonya Blakey. Scheduled to open in late 2020, the National Museum of Gospel Music will be known for its commitment to understanding the richness of gospel music as reflected in our past, present and future. Fred Jerkins Presents "Victory" featuring Last Call is a song to watch as it moves up the charts. This week it's #12 on The Gospel Indicators chart. Here Last Call In There Own Words....http://gospel-spotlight.com/lastcall_intvw.htm “CHANGED” is a featured single from the Soundtrack of Season 3 of OWN TV's "Greenleaf." “CHANGED” is sung by Patti LaBelle, who joins forces with Deborah Joy Winans to create beautiful harmony. This is the iconic gospel hit by lead by Tramaine Hawkins from the pen of the late Walker Hawkins. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYhSi05NPeQ Evangelist Shree Isabell is a woman powerfully rooted in singing and ministering. In 2011, Shree released her debut indie album LIFE OF A WORSHIPPER. A few years later, Shree received a personal invitation from Dr. Bobby Jones asking her to join the Nashville Super Choir. “Dr. Jones thought I would be an asset to the choir to bring a ‘Pentecostal’ flavor similar to that of Beverly Crawford,” Shree states. Shree's and her husband Quentin Isabell's indie label Kamasia Music is preparing for a new single release “The Great I Am”. Produced by AyRon Lewis, “The Great I Am” lends true to Shree’s traditional gospel preference, but is laced with the contemporary savvy musicianship Lewis adds as producer. https://soundcloud.com/user-747680924/the-great-i-am First teased during this summer’s break out hit, TV One’s “We’re The Campbells”, Warryn and Erica Campbell are ready to unveil their new single, “All Of My Life,” on Friday, September 21, 2018. "All Of My Life,” the next new smash from Erica Campbell, featuring powerhouse husband-producer Warryn 'Baby Dubb' Campbell, is set for a worldwide takeover to premiere on Friday 9/21 at 6:00 AM EST to kick off Erica’s top-rated nationally syndicated morning show “Get Up Mornings with Erica Campbell” as they broadcast LIVE from the Circle City Classic. RiZen's Former Lead Singer & 2x Stellar Award Winner Adriann ?Lewis-Freeman is back. After finishing her Bachelors and Masters, currently teaching English in High School, getting married, and becoming a First Lady, Adriann is back on THE CHARTS with "JoyBells." Kirk Franklin has opened up about how forgiveness improved his relationship with his biological father, who put him up for adoption, Essence reports. In a lengthy Instagram post, the 48-year-old gospel singer also revealed his dad has only three to six months to live. “I’ve lived my entire life hating this man,” Franklin wrote in the caption of a photo of him embracing his father and kissing the top of his head. “He and my biological mother gave me up for adoption, and it left me never feeling good enough … to this very day,” he revealed. “I took my hate for him and used it as fuel to be the best father I could be for my own.” Tauren Wells continues to celebrate the success of his breakout debut solo single, “Hills and Valleys.” The single, which peaked at #3 on Billboard, has recently been certified Gold by the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America®). This marks an incredible year for Wells, who is also an eight-time nominee and performer at the upcoming 49th Dove Awards. Wells’ current single, “Known,” is currently #1 on Billboard Christian Airplay Chart. Wells’ debut solo single, “Hills and Valleys” lifted from the album of the same name, has received over 100 million digital streams and its accompanying acoustic style music video has been viewed over 24 million times. Hills and Valleys’ third single “When We Pray” peaked at number two Billboard National Airplay chart. Tauren also achieved number one status being featured on Crowder’s hit song “All My Hope.” The power couple are celebrating their 30-year marriage with the release of their new memoir, Us Against the World: Our Secrets to Love, Marriage, and Family available November 13, 2018. In their new memoir, the couple candidly shares an inspiring, funny, and up-close look at their lives while offering hope and practical advice for building a strong relationship, marriage and family.Ever since the NAACP Image Award winners David and Grammy® Award winner Tamela Mann were key members of Kirk Franklin’s Platinum selling group, 'The Family,' fans have been clamoring for the duo to release a joint album. That time has finally come. David and Tamela plan to release, Us Against The World: The Love Project, a soulful 10-song musical collaboration on November 9. The album is being released in conjunction with the release of their new book. The Mann’s have embarked on a second installment of their, “The Mann’s Family Tour.” The Mann's family concert tour kicked off on Oct. 11 and will make stops in 20 cities, ending in Cincinnati, OH Nov. 11. Multiple GRAMMY®, Stellar, and Dove Award-winning Gospel icon Donnie McClurkin will unveil a selection of new songs in a live concert special, airing Tuesday, September 18th 2018, on Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) at 8 PM/9C. In McClurkin’s live album concert special, the prolific singer/songwriter is giving audiences a sneak peek at brand new music from his new album, which he performed before a live audience for the first time at his album recording this past June. One of the best-selling Gospel recording artists worldwide with over 10 million albums sold, Donnie McClurkin’s forthcoming new album will be released in 2019. Jonathan McReynolds, Not Lucky, I'm Loved" hit #1 on the Gospel Airplay Chart this week and his digital deluxe record "Make More Room" hit #1 on the Nielsen Current Gospel Albums chart! Jonathan wraps his sold out "Make Room" tour this week in Memphis and St. Louis! Hear Jonathan McReynolds IN His Own Words (#IHOW)....http://gospel-spotlight.com/jonathanmcreynolds.htm UPCOMING GUESTS ON THIS WEEK'S SISTER CIRCLE, hosted by Quad Webb-Lunceford, Syleena Johnson, Rashan Ali and Trina Braxton: Monday-Queen Latifah, Tuesday-Pastor Jamal Bryant, Wednesday-Michael Vick (NFL) and Kevin Willis (NBA), Thursday-The Walls Group and Kyla Jade, runner-up on The Voice, Friday- Mikki Taylor, editor-at-large, Essence magazine; comedian Damon Williams and actress Cree Davis, The Bobby Brown Story. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com It’s finally here! Tori Kelly’s new album, Hiding Place, is available now, honoring her deepest musical passion and delivering an R&B-infused, infectiously melodic take on classic gospel. The follow-up to her full-length debut Unbreakable Smile, Hiding Place finds the co-star of the 2016 feature film Sing teaming up with 12-time Grammy Award-winning gospel legend Kirk Franklin. With a lush yet simply adorned sound beautifully suited to Kelly’s incomparable voice, the Franklin-produced album includes such standouts as the slow-burning, harmony-infused lead single “Help Us to Love” and the powerfully radiant, full-choir-driven “Soul’s Anthem.” The highly anticipated sixth album, “DECLARATIONS,” from Stellar Award Winner Jonathan Nelson, is available today, in stores and online everywhere. This 12-track brand-new album with Nelson’s signature vocals, lyrics and sound, “DECLARATIONS” affirms Nelson’s place in gospel music as a trailblazing praise and worship leader. From beginning to end, “DECLARATIONS” is authentic worship, straight from his heart. Chart topping rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer Christon Gray, has released the new single“Time Out,” out on digital music platforms and at Christian CHR and Gospel radio. “Time Out” is the second song available from his upcoming album Clear The Heir . The hitmaker behind the song “Stop Me,” which has been a crossover hit featured across multiple television, movie, and entertainment avenues (including the theme to Madden ‘19, the Dwayne Johnson blockbuster movie Rampage, on HBO, the ESPY Awards and more),Christon Gray’s “Time Out” builds upon the personal journey of reaffirming faith found in his most recently-released song “Together Forever.” His new anthem makes a declarative statement of staying strong with a fighting spirit and the faith to power through adversity. Urban One/TV One partnered with Mayor Muriel Bowser and kicked off the 48th Annual Congressional Black Caucus Week with D.C.'s Inaugural Mayoral Maternal and Infant Health Summit, which is held in Washington, D.C., from September 12-16. TV One General Manager Michelle Rice also was a featured panelist on Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence's Black Women and Workforce Diversity panel. On Thursday, September 12, Urban One Founder Cathy Hughes moderated a special panel with Mayor Bowser and Valerie Jarrett, former senior advisor for the Obama Administration, for the first Maternal and Infant Health Summit held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Celebrity Chef Kim Stratton has cooked up a really fine meal of music with her first recording in six years, "Unto The Lamb." The anthem-styled praise and worship ballad showcases Stratton’s powerhouse voice and signature vocal technique. The Gospel Spotlight calls it a hit!!! UNSUNG HOLLYWOOD, which profiles some of the most talented, versatile, and influential black celebrities in Hollywood, will debut new episodes on Sunday, October 7 at 9 p.m. ET/8C, kicking off with the story of the iconic African American film The Best Man (Malcolm D. Lee). The remainder of the season features equally unforgettable stories from influential entertainers including comedian/actor Wayne Brady, actor and R&B singer Ray J and comedian/TV/radio personality Rickey Smiley.. UNCENSORED, which follows at 10 p.m. ET/9C, explores the lives of your favorite personalities as they reveal secrets to their success, obstacles they've faced, and how they manage this new world of social media that has helped, but sometimes haunted their careers. Entertainment mogul Nick Cannon, actress Tichina Arnold, R&B singer K. Michelle and comedian/TV/radio personality D.L. Hughley will appear. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fL_mb8jtirM Veteran praise and worship recording artist, Bishop Leonard Scott, has scored the highest chart debut of his four decades-long career in music with his 14th album, "Jesus Love Legacy." The uplifting collection of songs comes in at No. 8 on the Top Gospel Albums sales chart with a bullet. It eclipses Bishop Scott's personal best chart peak of No. 18 for "Be Lifted." The twelve-track collection of songs is one of Scot's most cohesive and intentional efforts. He collaborated closely with producer, Phillip Feaster, and singer/songwriter, TIFF JOY. The trio co-wrote seven of the set's twelve tracks, including the upbeat radio single, "Working in My Favor" which features gospel legend Fred Hammond, Shirley Murdock as well as, Jeral V. Gray of New Direction. Rance Allen and Kevin Vasser join Scott on the old school funk number, "Power in the Name" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPT0rJY5EFc In this new season, Earl Bynum releases a new solo studio album "This Song Is For You". This new album is a collection of 10-tracks infused with soulful rhythms, R&B styled vocals, Gospel (Good News) lyrics, accompanied by amazing instrumentation and background vocals. The current single, "Bless The Lord Oh My Soul (Remix)"is a bridge to connect Bynum's gospel roots with his urban music influences. The album title track,"This Song Is For You" and "Call Him", showcase Bynum's Urban Inspirational style, while "Rain" and "You Are Great" deliver a sound that appeals to multicultural audiences. The Lionsgate hit drama series GREENLEAF has returned for season three on OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network. This shocking series depicts the never-ending secrets of the Greenleaf family and their Memphis, TN based megachurch. Each season of the enthralling show has been accompanied by a dynamic music soundtrack. Lionsgate Music announces the next volume, the highly anticipated GREENLEAF SEASON 3 SOUNDTRACK and featured single “Changed”. The GREENLEAF SEASON 3 SOUNDTRACK will be available for digital download on Friday, September 28th. The soundtrack features songs performed by Deborah Joy Winans, Patti LaBelle, Chimere Scott, Keith David, Josiah Bell and Voice of Atlanta. Deborah Joy Winans and Patti LaBelle join for an inspiring collaboration on the soundtrack lead audio and video single “Changed”. The world premiere of the "Changed" music video is in The Gospel Spotlight...https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYhSi05NPeQ&feature=youtu.be Koryn Hawthorne continues to shatter records as a new artist, making history as the first female artist to hold the #1 position on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs chart for 26 weeks with, “Won’t He Do It,” remaining #1 on the latest chart (for the week of September 15, 2018). Hawthorne’s chart-topping success surpasses the previous record of 25 weeks set in 2013 by Tamela Mann with “Take Me to the King.” In addition to the new chart milestone, the 20-year-old’s official “Won’t He Do It” music video has garnered over 1.4 million views and counting since its debut exactly one month ago. “Won’t He Do It” – the lead single off her chart-topping debut full-length album Unstoppable – is also currently #1 on the BDS Gospel chart (for 18 weeks) and #1 on the MediaBase Gospel chart (for 17 weeks). Hawthorne is maintaining a busy schedule this fall, including a recent return appearance on the hit television series Greenleaf in last week’s episode. The 2018 Dove Awards double nominee, who is up for New Artist of the Year and Contemporary Gospel/Urban Recorded Song of the Year, will be performing at the award show on October 16th. She is touring in September and November with Jonathan McReynolds on the Make Room Tour. The tour includes sold-out stops in Brooklyn, Washington DC, Richmond, Philadelphia and Atlanta, and also makes stops in Memphis and St. Louis. Koryn Hawthorne, “Won’t He Do It” official music video: https://youtu.be/OwrE0YjfNGg Contemporary Gospel artist, Lamont Sanders has a new radio single. It has a simple, yet powerful message for the masses! Lamont Sanders gives “All the Glory" and praises God. Be on the look out for this song. Brent Jones “Open Your Mouth and Say Something!” (Billboard's #1 Most Added Song at Radio), the Grammy and Stellar Award winner is in concert at Urban Network's Business of Music Conference on Sept 14th! Urban Network’s Business of Music Conference has been serving the urban music community since 1990. One of the largest gatherings of urban music professionals in the world, the 2-½ day conference features speakers & experts in the fields of Music Streaming, Social Media Strategies, Publishing, Artist Management, Entertainment Law, Funding, Songwriting/Production, Entrepreneurship, Digital & Terrestrial Radio, Music in Film/TV/Video Games, etc. This year's Conference includes major label executives from Sony Music Group, Universal, Warner Music, iHeart Media, Sirius XM, The Recording Academy, Digiwaxx, Tune Registry and dozens more. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com The Gospel Spotlight is on JONATHAN NELSON'S 'DECLARATIONS' ALBUM RELEASE CELEBRATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 at All Nations Worship Assembly, Atlanta. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmeHhjZOTPo The 3rd Annual 2018 Black Music Honors hosted by Rickey Smiley and LeToya Luckett is currently airing in national broadcast syndication. The star-studded show was taped live at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center in Nashville, Tenn. The show celebrated the unparalleled legacies of several esteemed music icons including Stephanie Mills (Legends Award); Bobby Brown (R&B Soul Music Icon Award); BeBe and CeCe Winans (Gospel Music Icon Award); Faith Evans (Urban Music Icon Award); Whodini (Hip Hop Icon Award); and Dallas Austin (Music Innovator Icon Award). The Gospel Spotlights Tina Campbell. Checkout "We Livin' https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGnsUe7ZpFc Grammy® Award-Winning Recording Artist Tamela Mann and her husband, NAACP Image Award-Winning Actor and Comedian David Mann, will drop a soulful 10-song musical collaboration about resilient and enduring love, entitled Us Against the World: The Love, available November 13, 2018. Produced by David, Tamela and their son David Mann, Jr., Us Against the World is a candidly honest album chronicling defining moments in David and Tamela’s relationship. The two recreate an epic revelation from early on in their marriage that could have undone them on the heart-wrenching yet resolutely hopeful track “I Love You O.” On “Mason Jar” Tamela’s tender vocals pay tribute to her grandmother, mother and love of her life, David. The first single, going to Urban AC is “Good Love,” a timeless romantic duet in the vein of one of the Motown classics featuring David and Tamela’s soulfully smooth harmonies. The title track “Us Against the World” features the duo’s fine vocal blend layered on top of funky, soulful grooves. The album reconstructs other ‘big reveals’ in the couple’s relationship, leading to “Signs,” the ultimate love letter to each other. Isabel Davis charts with new single "Jesus We Love You" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edgBh3XFYJU&feature=youtu.be Tyler Perry started shooting the next season of his hit show, The Haves and the Haves Nots this week. After hearing that Cosby Show actor Geoffrey Owens was in between jobs and making ends meet by working at his local Trader Joe's, Perry quickly tweeted out that he'd be more than happy to snatch him up for a role on the Oprah Winfrey Network series. "I have tremendous respect for a man who has no pride about working. He's going to do what he has to do to support his family," Perry said. "I know a lot of people … that refuse to go to work when they're between acting gigs. When I saw that, I was moved by him. That's the true measure of a man. The true measure of an artist. I have so much respect for him. ?"Sister Circle," the live, daily talk show hosted by Quad Webb-Lunceford (Married To Medicine), Syleena Johnson (R&B Divas), TV host, sports reporter and radio show host Rashan Ali and Trina Braxton (Braxton Family Values)guest today includes Tuesday 9.11 on SISTER CIRCLE: Don't miss the deals on "Sister Circle Savings" with Summer Jackson; get health tips with Dr. Dave; and today's "Get to Know Our Sister" focuses on Rashan Ali.. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com The Gospel Music Association (GMA) announced another round of all-star performances for the 49th Annual GMA Dove Awards, including award-winning singer-songwriter Lauren Daigle, a Newsboys reunion celebrating the band's 25th anniversary, a duet by chart-topping recording artist Natalie Grant and rising star Koryn Hawthorne, and a first-time Dove Awards performance by GRAMMY® nominated artist Tori Kelly featuring gospel legend Kirk Franklin. The awards show will be held live on October 16 in Nashville, Tennessee and will air exclusively on TBN October 21 at 8 p.m. CT. Previously announced performers include Big Daddy Weave, Cory Asbury, Tauren Wells and Jason Crabb with Rascal Flatts. A native of Bakersfield, CA, Jason McGee moved to Los Angeles in 1999 to go to the L.A.C.C. Theater Academy. He then went on to perform in television shows and films, acting and singing. Jason has shared the stage with Kanye West, Mariah Carey, Donnie McClurkin, Kirk Franklin just to name a few. In 2006 Jason formed the award winning P.S.A.L.M.S at the City of Refuge Church whereBishop Noel Jones is the pastor. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjxxt6-WSKs&feature=youtu.be Motown Gospel, to release compilation album marking the label’s twenty years of iconic and genre-defining music. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of Motown Gospel, this album journeys through the birth of EMI Gospel as a seedling artist development label to its rise and transition into Motown Gospel, one of the most successful music labels. All your favorites are featured on Motown Gospel: 20 Years | 20 Hits with songs from Award-winning artists Tye Tribbett, VaShawn Mitchell, Charles Jenkins, Micah Stampley, Lamar Campbell, Forever Jones and more. Among the classic gems include “I Need You Now,” from Smokie Norful; Tri City Singers’ “Never Seen The Righteous,” Kierra Sheard’s debut single “You Don’t Know” and digging deep into the vault, their are songs like “Blessed and Highly Favored,”(The Clark Sisters), “Set Me Free,” (Myron Butler & Levi) “Worth Fighting For,” (Brian Courtney Wilson) and the career-defining “Break Every Chain,” from Tasha Cobbs Leonard. When news of Tyler Perry offering Geoffrey Owens – the former “The Cosby Show” actor a job on one of OWN’s drama shows in the wake of Owens’ bagging groceries at a New jersey Trader Joe’s – a lot of folks gave the gesture a big ol’ thumbs up! Of course most thought Owens would jump at the opportunity to work with Perry. Well, hold on. Not so fast. Perhaps Owens is not sold yet that the offer is real. Owens, who played Elvin Tibideaux on “The Cosby Show” from 1985 to 1992, responded to Tyler’s offer, telling news show Entertainment Tonight, that Perry’s offer was “kind of cool.” He’s a bit skeptical because Perry had never offered to audition him before his photos went viral on social media. “I mean, that kind of sounded like he was saying, ‘Come work with me.’ I’m so, like, skeptical. Like, really? Are you actually saying come work with me? Because we’ve never worked together before. So, that’s a very, very generous thing for him to say. And we’ll see what happens with that.” On TBT...Hear Geoffry Owens IN His Own Words... http://gospel-spotlight.com/geoffry_owens_intvw.htm Gospel Artist and Songwriter Krystal A. Livingston has experienced many disappointments, but she believes, as her favorite scripture states, that it all works for her good. The Connecticut-based recording artist and former choir director is known for her exceptional vocal skills, talents which have placed her on stages singing background vocals for mainstream pop artists Josh Groban and Kenny Loggins and opening up for Gospel legend, Donnie McClurkin. Checkout her video for “Great Things”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkAMclAwlVc BMI® (Broadcast Music, Inc)® celebrated the songwriters, producers and publishers of the year’s most-performed R&B/hip-hop songs during the 2018 BMI R&B/Hip-Hop Awards held at The Woodruff Arts Center’s Symphony Hall in Atlanta. Multiple award-winning superstar Janet Jackson took home the night’s highest honor of BMI Icon in recognition of her groundbreaking career. Hosted by BMI President & CEO Mike O’Neill and BMI Vice President, Creative, Atlanta Catherine Brewton, with Lifestyle Specialist Kenny Burns as co-host, the evening included stellar performances by some of the hottest artists. The night began with a special tribute to the late Aretha Franklin, who was part of the BMI family for 50 years, with Tamela Mann singing a rendition of “Precious Lord, Take My Hand” followed by “You’ve Got a Friend.” Keri Hilson and BMI’s Wardell Malloy introduced Atlanta rapper Derez De’shon as 2018 BMI Social Star, presented by PrettyLittleThing.com, before he took to the stage with a performance of his hit “Hardaway.” Chart-topping young star and two-time 2018 Dove Awards nominee Koryn Hawthorne makes a return appearance in Lionsgate’s hit drama series, Greenleaf tonight, September 5that 10 pm/9c on OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network. Her song “Speak the Name”will be featured in the episode. Hawthorne’s role in Episode 303 (“Chain of Command”) marks her second appearance on the show, following her appearance during Season 2, where she gave a debut performance of her chart-topping hit “Won’t He Do It.” Koryn Hawthorne’s “Speak the Name” is now available on the Official Greenleaf Playliston Spotify and Apple Music. “Speak the Name” was written by Hawthorne with GRAMMY®-winning songwriters Aaron Lindsey and Bernie Herms. The Greenleaf: Season 3 Soundtrack will be available from Lionsgate Music on September 28th. Watch the Colin Kaepernick Nike Ad That Will Run During the NFL Season Opener courtesy of Time http://time.com/5387672/colin-kaepernick-nike-ad-nfl/ Inspirational Jazz Vocalist Robert E. Person released his fifth indie album this summer to a #12 position on the Billboard Top Jazz Albums Chart. CLASSIC COVERS is Robert’s most ingenious and versatile work to date. CLASSIC COVERS includes remakes of timeless soul, show tune and gospel songs including “My Favorite Things” from The Sound of Music, and the heartfelt ballad from hit Broadway musical Civil War “Sarah”. CLASSIC COVERS also includes a remake of Stevie Wonder’s hit “Love’s In Need Of Love Today”. “Loves In Need Of Love Today” is Robert’s new Jazz Radio single already being added by Jazz radio stations across the country: Along with the radio single, Robert has released the official music video for “Love’s In Need Of Love Today”. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bPlTkq264go&feature=youtu.be Two-time NAACP Image Award-Winning Actor and Comedian David Mann and his wife, Grammy® Award-Winning Recording Artist Tamela Mann, are celebrating their 30-year love story with the release of their new memoir, 'Us Against the World: Our Secrets to Love, Marriage and Family' available November 13, 2018. With a relationship spanning more than 30 years, David and Tamela are just as, if not more than, happily in love as they were in the early days of life together. In their new book, 'Us Against the World: Our Secrets to Love, Marriage and Family, ' the superstar couple who has delighted and inspired audiences through music, plays, movies, and the television series " Meet the Browns," " The Manns" and "Mann and Wife " candidly share a wonderfully inspiring, funny and up-close look at their lives while offering hope and practical advice for building a strong relationship, marriage and family. Joshua Rogers has announced the album release date and has unmasked the LP's official cover for his long-awaited new project Returning (Mixed Bag Music/eOne) available in stores and online Friday, September 28. Fans can pre-order now on iTunes and receive three grat tracks instantly. The 14-track project from the 24 year-old Greeleyville, South Carolina native features songs such as "Don't Leave Me," "The Daryl Coley Medley," and the lead single "Pour Your Oil." Joshua begins his promotional tour in support of his forthcoming album in Los Angeles (Sept 13-15) at the Urban Network Digital Music Business Conference and will continue with stops in Atlanta, New York, Chicago, Detroit, Washington, D.C., South Carolina, Nashville, and Dallas. JONATHAN NELSON'S 'DECLARATIONS' ALBUM RELEASE CELEBRATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2018 going down at the All Nations Worship Assembly, Atlanta. Award-winning journalist, author, TV host and multimedia entrepreneur Roland S. Martin will launch #RolandMartinUnfiltered, a daily digital show, on Tuesday, September 4, 2018 at 6:00pm ET. The show will report on news and current events that are important to people of color, covering a wide range of topics including politics, social justice, sports, education, business, finance, entertainment and pop culture. #RolandMartinUnfiltered will stream live daily on Facebook, YouTube, Periscope and Instagram TV, and will be available on-demand on a multitude of digital platforms. Gospel Music Industry Executive and Founder of Tre7 Entertainment, Tracy Y. Williamson has added ;Author to her name with the upcoming release of her book on October 23rd:"Own Your Moment and Take the Stage: Laying the Foundation for a Successful Music Career." Tracy has worked in the music industry for nearly 20 years as a record label executive, artist consultant, publicist, artist manager, songwriter, producer, entrepreneur, and radio host. Through her new book, "Own Your Moment and Take the Stage: Laying the Foundation for a Successful Music Career," Tracy shares her journey along with viable tips and information to help guide those who desire to be connected to the music industry. The book will step-by-step help lay the groundwork for you to successfully own your moment and take the stage. Gain insight, motivation and information to properly develop your vision before writing a song, recording and more. Two-Time Stellar Award winning online radio station, SOAR Radio, and the founder of Sun Wise Media, Ri-Karlo Handy, are thrilled to announce the 3rd Annual 2019 Gospel Radio Awards. The show will be taped for television and Live Streamed. Karen Clark-Sheard will receive the Legend Award, Tamela Mann will receive the Chart Achievement Award, Tasha Cobbs-Leonard will be honored with the Industry Impact Award, and Dr. Matthew Stevenson will be presented with the Luminary Award. This special evening will include performances and appearances by Kierra Sheard, Todd Dulaney, Jekalyn Carr, Dorinda Clark Cole, Michelle Williams, Shana Wilson Williams, Donald Lawrence, Jessica Reedy, Kelontae Gavin, Darius Paulk and other top Gospel artists. The late Aretha Franklin’s family said Monday (Sept. 3) that it found an Atlanta pastor’s eulogy delivered at the Queen of Soul’s funeral last week to be offensive and distasteful. The eulogist, the Rev. Jasper Williams Jr., was criticized for a political address that described children being in a home without a father as “abortion after birth” and said black lives do not matter unless blacks stop killing each other. “He spoke for 50 minutes and at no time did he properly eulogize her,” said Vaughn Franklin, the late singer’s nephew, who said he was delivering a statement for the family. Franklin said his aunt never asked Williams to eulogize her, since she didn’t talk about plans for her own funeral. The family selected Williams because he has spoken at other family memorials in the past, most prominently at the funeral for Franklin’s father, minister and civil rights activist C.L. Franklin, 34 years ago. He also said “there are not fathers in the home no more” and said that a black woman cannot raise a black boy to be a man. Some people suggested that was disrespectful of Aretha Franklin, a single mother of four boys. Coming fresh off his first #1 solo record BEBE WINANS is back with his follow single, "Laughter ?(Just Like A Medicine)" featuring K.S. It's a Hit! Hear BeBe Winans In His Own Words...http://gospel-spotlight.com/be_be_winans_intvw.htm Barack Obama will soon have a street named after him in the city he called home for just two years. On Tuesday, the Los Angeles City Council voted to rename Rodeo Road, a street running along the northern edge of the Baldwin Hills neighborhood, as Obama Boulevard. City Council President Herb Wesson first proposed renaming the street in 2017, noting that Rancho Cienega Park off Rodeo Road was the site of a major Obama campaign rally during his 2008 presidential campaign. The 3.5-mile street is also located in a predominantly African American community, and is near streets named after Thomas Jefferson, George Washington and Martin Luther King Jr. Mayor Eric Garcetti announced the vote on Twitter shortly after it passed. Lowell Pye is back with a soul-stirring single that is perfect for this season. The Stellar Award Winning artist introduces "We Need You". A song that proclaims to the world that we need "Jesus" and that with HIM we are able to accomplish, conquer and make it through whatever confronts us. Lowell's soultry sound and lyrics of the song are definitely captivating. Although Aretha Franklin sang at his inauguration, former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama won’t attend her funeral on Friday, their spokeswoman Katie Hill confirmed. "Unfortunately, President and Mrs. Obama will not be able to attend Aretha Franklin’s services on Friday, but they have sent a letter, which the Rev. Al Sharpton will be reading during the service,” Hill said. According to USA Today, Obama is to give a eulogy along with former President George W. Bush Saturday morning at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., for the late U.S. Sen. John McCain, who died Aug. 25. Bush, the Free Press previously reported, also sent a letter to be read at Franklin’s funeral service. SiriusXM announced Wednesday (Aug. 29) that Soul Town (channel 49) will broadcast Aretha Franklin’s funeral in its entirety on the new Aretha Franklin Tribute Channel. The service on Friday at 10 a.m. ET will feature performances by Stevie Wonder, Ariana Grande and more. Faith Hill, Chaka Khan, Fantasia and Jennifer Hudson are also set to perform, along with Yolanda Adams, Shirley Caesar, the Clark Sisters and Jennifer Holliday. Following the service, the Aretha Franklin Tribute Channel will answer calls from fans across the country who’d like to share memories and pay their respects to the late Queen of Soul. The new tribute channel launched on Aug. 16. From “I Say A Little Prayer” to “Think” to her signature classic “RESPECT,” Aretha Franklin was a musical phenomenon and a transcendent figure in American culture. As the nation mourns the passing of the ‘Queen of Soul’ Aretha Franklin, BET Networks will commemorate her life and legacy by broadcasting Aretha Franklin’s funeral service in its entirety beginning Friday, August 31 at 10 AM ET on BET, BET Her and BET.com The Bounce television network and the Brown Sugar streaming service are teaming up to carry Aretha Franklin's farewell memorial service live this Friday, Aug. 31. The funeral will take place at the Greater Grace Temple in Franklin's beloved hometown of Detroit. Stevie Wonder, Jennifer Hudson, Chaka Khan, Ronald Isley, Yolanda Adams, Shirley Caesar, The Clark Sisters and Marvin Sapp are among the 19 artists scheduled to perform at the family-and-friends-only service. Smokey Robinson, the Rev. Jesse Jackson and Former President Bill Clinton will be among the high-profile speakers. "Celebrating the Queen of Soul" will begin at 9:00 a.m. ET and the memorial service will be begin at 10:00 am ET. At least 1000 members of Delta Sigma Theta sorority held a separate memorial ceremony for soror Aretha Franklin during her public viewing Tuesday at Detroit’s Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. Per sorority tradition, the ladies took part in an Omega Omega ceremony, which lasted nearly an hour and is traditionally performed for any member before her funeral. Standing in a semicircle surrounding Franklin’s family, the women filed in for nearly 10 minutes wearing black dresses, pearl necklaces, and corsages of African violets, the sorority’s official flower. The Word Network, the largest African American religious network in the world, will air the celebration of life service for Aretha Franklin in its entirety. "We are very appreciative to receive the support of The Word Network in ensuring that the ENTIRE Celebration Of Life Service for Ms. Aretha Franklin will be aired uninterrupted. The Word Network will graciously provide a live feed to all other Networks and Broadcast carriers authorized by the Franklin family," stated Bishop Charles Ellis III of Greater Grace Temple. The Service will begin at 10:00am EST. on Friday, August 31st. J. Moss VictoryDanceChallenge Record Urself Dancing To the new #hotness & Who knows,He may fly u in to be in the video with him !! Let’s Goooo ppl. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwSAs_mXUGY&feature=youtu.be God Bless the Broken Road in Theaters September 7, 2018 http://www.godblessthebrokenroad.com/?utm_source=email&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=outreachemail1 Top women powerhouse executives Cynthia Marshall, CEO of the Dallas Mavericks and Nona Jones, manager of global faith-based partnerships for Facebook, are leading the way at Bishop T. D. Jakes' new Master Class format for the Woman, Thou Art Loosed! conference (Oct. 18 – 20)—a movement that has been training, teaching and inspiring more than half a million women for more than 25 years. Never before have the breakout sessions at the event focused more on enhancing women's entrepreneurial skills and helping them maximize their impact across multiple areas. Marshall is leading a breakout session on how women leaders can succeed in a male-dominated work environment. Led by top international, spiritual-minded businesswomen, the breakout sessions will also address topics such as: The challenges of being a Christian woman in corporate America, How to achieve work/life balance in a culture that pushes busyness and productivity, Practical steps to excel in financial freedom and more. Bishop John C White is celebrated around the globe as a world-class musician and songwriter. His composition Stretch Out (When Trouble Comes) recorded by the Institutional Church of God in Christ Radio Choir of Brooklyn, New York appeared on Pastor Shirley Caesar's debut solo album and became an instant hit. White would take the Institutional Radio Choir and later his very own JC White Singers to higher heights with a string of choir favorites including Talk It Over With Jesus, Stay in the Race, Please Touch Somebody, I Don't Want To Be Lost, You Can Make It and Keys To The Kingdom. With some four-plus decades dedicated to the service of the Lord in music ministry and with his music covered by the likes of Ricky Dillard and New G, Dr. Charles G. Hayes and the Cosmopolitan Church of Prayer Choir, Chicago Mass Choir and more, White details his experiences in a new book, "Messages Behind the Melodies." ?? The renowned Debbie Allen, actress, dancer, choreographer, television director and producer will receive the Icon Award at LA Focus' 21st Annual First Ladies High Tea on Saturday, September 8, 2018 @ 11 AM, at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, Beverly Hills, CA 90210. Other honorees include; Jennifer S. Newsom; wife of Lt. Governor Gavin Newson, Xernona Clayton; Founder/CEO, Trumpet Awards Foundation, and Gwen Troy, Community Bible Study. Gospel Legend Dr. Bobby Jones and Apostle Beverly “BAM” Crawford, Pastor, Bible Enrichment Fellowship International Church will return as Co-Hosts. LA Focus honors First ladies who have served their communities well, through activism and charitable contributions this year’s honorees are: Dr. Shalonda K. Crawford; The Experience Christian Ministries, Osie L. Hill; Love & Unity Christian Fellowship and Hyepin C. IM; President/CEO, Faith & Community Empowerment. Gospel legend Dorinda Clark Cole will be the Special guest performer for the event. The First Ladies High Tea awards scholarships to participants, this year’s essay theme is, “On Becoming: Finding My Strength”. Four teenage girls will be awarded a $ 1,000 scholarship and (1) winner $1500. "Sister Circle," the live daily talks show from TEGNA Inc. and TV One, is hosted by a panel of four female hosts - Quad Webb-Lunceford (Married To Medicine), Syleena Johnson (R&B Divas), TV host, sports reporter and radio show host Rashan Ali and new co-host Trina Braxton (Braxton Family Values)- airs weekdays from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. ET on TV One. Tuesdays guest are Greenleaf's Keith David, Lynn Whitfield and Merle Dandridge. Wednesdays guest includes Greenleaf's Lamman Rucker and Deborah Joy Winan. Thursdays guest is Love and Hip-Hop Atlanta star Melissa Scott and Gospel Singer Donald Lawrence. Celeste Betton from Team Pharrell on Season 9 of The Voice is releasing her debut album, "Honestly"! The new album, which comes just 3 years after her time on The Voice, features her debut single, a cover of Matt Redman's 10,000 Reasons, and a new single penned by the songstress herself, "Trust". "Trust" includes a sample of Kim McFarland's "In My Name", with the famous lyrics "Just put your trust in me" ringing all throughout the chorus. Honestly is currently available on all digital retailers. Anthony Ponder & Ministry's Desire (APMD) are a collective of singers in the New Jersey area who focus on authentic music ministry. Anthony has launched a series of videos called The Tribute Sessions in which APMD performs classic hits by Gospel's biggest artist. The first Tribute Session pays tribute to Grammy, Stellar and Dove Award winning legends Donald Lawrence and Hezekiah Walker. APMD invites fans to watch as they rehearse and record Anthony's tribute arrangement of "Oh I Feel Jesus", which was written by Donald Lawrence for the FAMILY AFFAIR album by Hezekiah Walker & The Love Fellowship Crusade Choir in 1999. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SupwHSKZoRM&feature=youtu.be New Music from Charlie Wilson & Snoop - "One More Day" - Uptempo smash! https://youtu.be/BPmAxzEJpWA Capitol Records will release Tori Kelly's new project, Hiding Place, on September 14. Today, as the pre-order launched, the GRAMMY®-nominated artist shared the first single,"Never Alone" featuring Kirk Franklin. It's a soulful, transcendent track that finds hope in the midst of personal struggles. View Toriperforming the song live with Kirk Franklin. http://mysound.co/video/1433289970/never-alone-feat-kirk-franklin-tori-kelly Faith is evident in God Can Do Anything (But Fail), it's the radio single from Audrey DuBois Harris’ latest EP, God Bless America. The five-song EP with longtime collaborator and music maestro, Damien Sneed. features the title track and radio single along with classics and contemporary compositions: “Amazing Grace,” “Give Me Jesus,” and “Precious Lord Take My Hand,” recorded with Jerroll Lehman. The critically-acclaimed artist has graced world stages with her extraordinary vocal abilities in opera, classical, jazz, sacred, gospel and inspirational music. This Spring, the Reverend Jesse Jackson invited Harris to perform in a series of MLK50 events commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the assassination of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Harris also participated in “A Day of Remembrance” event at the National Civil Rights Museum. A personal favorite singer of Aretha Franklin, Harris will join other performers paying tribute to the Queen of Soul at services held in Detroit on August 31st. Christon Gray releases the new song “Together Forever,” the lead single from his upcoming fourth solo album Clear The Heir “Together Forever” kicks off a new chapter for the chart topping rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer, following a period of personal trials after the release of his acclaimed second album The Glory Album. In the song, Gray shares his experience dealing with being a Christian and facing divorce along with the life changes that follow. Reaffirming a strong declaration of faith in Jesus to inspire listeners, “Together Forever” will be followed by the release of additional singles in the coming weeks. Clear The Heir will be released on Friday October 19th, 2018. BISHOP NOEL JONES & THE CITY OF REFUGE SANCTUARY CHOIR present THE NEW SINGLE "HOLY GHOST" Featuring Jason McGee. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bVvz0Ckxh3M An all-star lineup that includes Stevie Wonder, Faith Hill, Jennifer Hudson, Fantasia, Shirley Caesar and many more will perform at Aretha Franklin’s funeral next week. The Queen of Soul’s service will be held in Detroit on Aug. 31. Also slated to perform are Ron Isley, Chaka Khan, Yolanda Adams, Jennifer Holliday and Franklin’s son, Edward Franklin. The list was provided by Franklin’s longtime publicist, Gwendolyn Quinn. The service will reflect Franklin’s strong gospel roots. Among the gospel stars performing will be Marvin Sapp, the Clark Sisters and Vanessa Bell Armstrong. The Aretha Franklin Orchestra and the Aretha Franklin Celebration Choir are also on the program, as are singers Audrey DuBois Harris and Alice McAllister Tillman. The service will be held at Greater Grace Temple. Franklin died of pancreatic cancer last Thursday at age 76 in Detroit. Sharing his life in the new book, “Unexpected Places: Thoughts On God, Faith and Finding Your Voice,” singer, songwriter Anthony Evans Jr. gives an honest, riveting narrative that chronicles his life from Dallas to Hollywood. In addition to Anthony’s book “Unexpected Places,” he simultaneously released a new single. A cover of the popular worship song “Reckless Love" done in a soulful, compelling style Anthony is known for. "I want the reader to understand that God does not necessarily take us directly from point A to point B. In today’s culture we often want immediate gratification, and if we are not getting somewhere in a straight line, it can be very frustrating. I want to encourage the reader to enjoy the zigzags of the journey … Each zig and each zag represents growth, progression and learning trust … God is in every corner, and in every unexpected place,” said Evans. Another jewel has been added to the crown of Queen Latifah. Philadelphia’s Mayor Jim Kenney announced Tuesday that the rapper, singer and actress would be the latest recipient of its Marian Anderson Award, named after the pioneering opera singer and Philly native who became the first African American to perform at the Metropolitan Opera in 1955. The award salutes “critically acclaimed artists who have impacted society in a positive way.” Latifah, born Dana Owens in Newark, New Jersey, was nominated for an Oscar for her role as Matron “Mama” Morton in 2002's “Chicago” and Grammy for her song “U.N.I.T.Y.” Kenney says she’s “an excellent role model and clearly well-deserving of this prestigious honor.” Previous winners include Dionne Warwick, Patti LaBelle and music producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff. Latifah will be awarded at a Nov. 20 gala. Zebrina Anderson, Nikeisha Whittier, and Sarah Benibo make up a beautiful trio of vivacious voices and virtuous spirits. These ladies have been singing together for over 15 years and have cross-pollinated Gospel, Contemporary Christian and Modern Worship with their poignant songwriting and ardent approach to ministry. Zebrina, Nikeisha and Sarah are God’s Chosen (GC3). The trio recently released their self-titled album which landed at #11 on the Billboard Gospel Albums Chart. God’s Chosen is now releasing the live performance of their single “Even In The Valley” in lyric video format. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZASWfZ624z4&feature=youtu.be The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) announced today, for the first time in the foundation’s history, two senators — Senator Cory Booker (New Jersey) and Senator Kamala D. Harris (California) — will serve as honorary co-chairs for the 48th Annual Legislative Conference (ALC), scheduled for September 12-16, 2018. Historically, co-chairs have been members of the U.S. House of Representatives. Word of an Aretha Franklin biopic to star Jennifer Hudson was first revealed last January, when Clive Davis broke the news at his annual pre-Grammy party before introducing J-Hud onstage to sing a medley of Franklin’s hits. “The artist anointed by Aretha Franklin herself,” Davis said in bringing Hudson to the stage, adding “Aretha personally told me that last week,” that the Oscar winner would play her on the big screen. According to one of its producers, the Hudson film is still going ahead, despite the life rights issues that Franklin’s passing may (or may not) dredge up. Aretha biopic projects have been floating around for years. USA Network was reportedly negotiating a TV movie at one point, “but before Davis’ announcement, the closest it came to casting was in 2011, when Franklin caused a stir by mentioning on “The Wendy Williams Show” that Halle Berry would be her first choice. Berry later brushed off the notion, saying she couldn’t “carry a tune.” BET Networks and Beverly Bond, CEO, founder and creator of “BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™”are excited to announce this year’s BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™ Awards taping on Sunday, August 26, 2018 at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center’s Prudential Hall in Newark, NJ. The broadcast will premiere on Sunday, September 9, 2018 at 8:00 P.M. ET/PT on BET. The 2018 BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™ celebrants are Mary J. Blige, Judith Jamison, Naomi Campbell, Lena Waithe and Tarana Burke The dynamic, three-time NAACP Award winning “BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™” on BET celebrates women throughout the diaspora by shining a light on the many accomplishments and contributions of influential Black women and girls. The 49th Annual GMA Dove Award nominations were recently announced, and Entertainment One (eOne) celebrates six nominations in multiple categories. Entertainment One’s Dove Award nominees are: Jonathan McReynolds Contemporary Gospel/Urban Recorded Song of the Year “Not Lucky, I’m Loved” Contemporary Gospel/Urban Album of The Year Make Room Ricky Dillard & New G Traditional Gospel Recorded Song of the Year “I Survived It” Traditional Gospel Album of the Year 10 Todd Dulaney Urban Worship Recorded Song of the Year “Your Great Name” Urban Worship Album of the Year Your Great Name The Dove Awards will take place on Tuesday, October 16, at Lipscomb University. Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) will exclusively air the show on Sunday, October 21. Voting for the final winners will run August 20 through August 27. The African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church’s first elected female bishop, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, and Stellar award-winning artist, Kurt Carr & The Kurt Carr singers will headline the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc.’s (CBCF) Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) Prayer Breakfast on September 15, 2018. The event, presented by The Coca-Cola Company, while be held from 7:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C. From the rough streets of Cleveland to the U.S. military to the top of Amazon's Best Selling Christian Rap Music chart, Tyrone Crawford's story reads like a novel, full of passionate struggle, steadfast faith and spiritual transformation. The Christian rapper who captivates audiences with his one-of-a-kind sound, driving beats and powerful words has signed with Colorado Springs, Colo. – based new management and label WieRok Entertainment. Tyrone's debut single, "HOPE" will be available September 14 for purchase and streaming across all DSPs via WieRok. The track's lyric video will release simultaneously with the single. Reflecting on the meaning of the song, Tyrone explains, "With so much negativity, pain and hardship going on in the world I wanted to lead people to have hope in Christ through it all." The single is part of a series of tracks comprising the rapper's first body of work with WieRok. Starting in September and scheduled to release every few months. Tasha Cobbs Leonard, best-selling gospel artist of the past year, announced the launch of The Revival Tour today. The highly anticipated tour begins November 1, in Atlanta, GA with nine additional dates across the country including Charlotte, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Dallas, Washington DC, Baltimore, New York City. An exclusive fan pre-sale will starts Tuesday, August 21. Subscribers to Tasha's email list will receive a pre-sale access code to purchase tickets early. Fans can sign up for the email list today at TashaCobbs.org. Tickets will go on sale everywhere starting Friday, August 24 at 10am ET. Cobbs Leonard has continued to elevate her music ministry since her debut in 2013, which earned her a GRAMMY Award. In 2017, she released the critical and consumer-acclaimed album HEART. PASSION. PURSUIT. It was the top-selling new album of the year and was propelled by exceptional performances on Good Morning America, Black Girls Rock, The Stellar Awards and Dove With the April 2018 release of his freshman album The Higher Experience and landing at No. 4 on chart, social media phenom Kelontae Gavin is set to digitally release, The Higher Experience long-form concert video. The 40 minute digital concert is available for immediate pre-order now and available for download or streaming August 24. The Higher Experience video concert not only showcases Gavin's passionate faith and vast vocal range, but also his preacher-like oratorical skills. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhOXYl_D1dg Koryn Hawthorne is still # 1 with "Won't He Do It." Here is the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OwrE0YjfNGg&feature=youtu.be “The Unsung Hits,” is a ten-track collection of songs not only highlight Earnest Pugh’s remarkable voice but also the sincere and heartfelt lyrics that have been inspiring his audiences. The set also features duets with some of gospel music’s leading and legendary voices, such as Bishop Rance Allen, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, D’Atra Hicks and Michelle Prather. The tracks were crafted by esteemed producers such as Grammy® Award winner Cedric Thompson, Michael Bereal and Keith Williams. TEGNA Inc.’s (NYSE: TGNA) “Sister Circle” announced today that Trina Braxton is joining first-year hosts Rashan Ali, Syleena Johnson and Quad Webb-Lunceford on the lively, daily talk show. Braxton is an entrepreneur, R&B singer and star of the reality TV show, “Braxton Family Values.” “Sister Circle” is a live, one-hour daily talk show that is inspiring, informative, empowering and always entertaining. This Monday, August 20th @8PM ET/7 PM CT, Trinity Broadcasting network (TBN),will premiere the second episode of “Gospel Worship Experience (GWE).” The program is hosted by JAVEN, and Tye Tribbett. The second episode features Travis Greene and Kierra Sheard. TBN live stream: https://www.tbn.org/watch/live As expected, there is reportedly a massive effort underway to send Aretha Franklin home in grand style. According to TMZ, her memorial will be a four-day event, where her body will lie in state for two days at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, and her funeral for close friends and family to be held at Greater Grace Temple. Family sources tell the site that the viewing will be an open casket. And, of course, there will be lots of singing. Sources close to the family say the Charles H. Wright museum was chosen to accommodate the mass of humanity expected to show up. Franklin was also a frequent visitor. The museum was also the site of Rosa Parks’ viewing in 2005. Franklin died Thursday at her home in Detroit surrounded by friends and family after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. She was 76. Erica and Warryn plan to celebrate their 17th wedding anniversary with a live performance of their duet song, "All of My Life" in front of thousands of fans at Kirk Franklin's Exodus Festival. But technical difficulties could derail the whole thing. Meanwhile, Joi returns home from touring with PJ Morton and shows the family her Atlanta concert, but will Warryn like what he sees? And Goo shares some big news about her potential clothing line. Tune in to season finale of WE'RE THE CAMPBELLS on Tuesday, August 21 at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT on TV One. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVL16y-g11E&feature=youtu.be The 2018 Black Music Honors recognized the legacy of Aretha Franklin during the award show taping on Thursday, August 16. . Hosted by Rickey Smiley and LeToya Luckett, the annual two-hour television special honors artists and musicians who have influenced and made significant contributions to American music. This year’s honorees were Bobby Brown, Faith Evans, Bebe & Cece Winans, Whodini, Stephanie Mills and Dallas Austin. The night included performances by Bell Biv Devoe, Next, Jade Novah, Kierra Sheard, Tasha Page-Lockhart, V. Bozeman, Demetria McKinney, DJ Mell Starr, Sammie, Donnie McClurkin, Sammie, Yo-Yo, Koryn Hawthorne, Rhyon Brown, Raheem DeVaughn, Regina Belle, Paris Bennett, Syleena Johnson, Angela Winbush, Jonathan McReynolds, Monie Love, Ruben Studdard and Doug E. Fresh. Additional VIP’s in attendance included Shiggy, Kyla Jade, Stevie J and more. GRAMMY® Award-winning artist Donald Lawrence commands attention on his latest song with The Tri-City Singers, “He Heard My Cry” (feat. Sir the Baptist and Arnetta Murrill-Crooms). Creating an urgent call of deliverance driven by Lawrence and the featured voices of hip hop lyricist Sir the Baptist, the chorus of The Tri-City Singers and soloist Arnetta Murrill-Crooms, “He Heard My Cry” is the second single in the upcoming reunion album from Lawrence with the original Tri-City Singers, celebrating their 25th anniversary. Oprah Winfrey will honor the Queen of Soul with a re-airing of her 1999 interview from “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” tomorrow (Sat, 8/18) at 8 pm ET/PT. Remembering Aretha Franklin: The Oprah Interview will feature the talk show host chatting with Aretha about her life and career, including her autobiography, “Aretha: From These Roots.” Also, Franklin performs “Think,” “Respect,” and “Miss Clawdy Medley,” a medley of songs in honor of her father, and shares her favorite recipe. Franklin also sings “We Need Power” to honor her roots in gospel music. The Queen of Soul Ms. Aretha Louise Franklin passes in her home at age 76. Our prayers and thoughts are with her family. friends and fans. Please keep them in your prayers. NAACP mourns the passing of superstar Aretha Franklin. “We remember Aretha for the joy and love she brought into our lives and society via her powerful voice,” said NAACP Chairman Leon W. Russell. “No one can discuss the civil rights movement nor music without paying respect to the Queen of Soul. We’ll miss her dearly.” Aretha Franklin not only revolutionized the sound of music during her career, she contributed to the changing of our society from a segregated one to one where all people, men and women were equal. Her chart-topping hit “Respect” became the De facto anthem for a nation struggling to break free from the chains of racism, segregation and a staunch patriarchy. Not only did she lend her voice to the struggle, but at times and in substantial ways, donated money to the Civil Rights Movement, supporting the work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the NAACP and others. Los Angeles community leaders laid flowers and had prayer in memory of Aretha Franklin today at her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Tyscot Records and Integrity Music, two of Christian and Gospel music's largest independent labels, are collaborating for the global release of select worship projects beginning with a new album from critically-acclaimed, Atlanta-based worship leader, Casey J. The collaboration leverages the rich heritage and unique strengths of the two organizations, recognized as industry leaders in the Gospel and Worship music. Tyscot Records roster includes Casey J, Kelontae Gavin, Javen, The Rance Allen Group, Bishop Leonard Scott and Anthony Brown and group therAPy. Chew Entertainment, lead by husband and wife producer team Ray Chew and Vivian Scott Chew are proud to announce the official launch of "Voice Your Inspiration" a national competition in conjunction with RCA Inspiration. In their continued effort and quest to discover and nurture new talent, Chew Entertainment, will partner with RCA Inspiration in looking for the next inspirational artist/duo/group. They will engage the gospel, inspirational and mainstream communities seeking some of the best talent nationally by launching "Voice Your Inspiration" as an on-line contest. The voice can come in the form of a soloist, duo or small ensemble, whose body of work should encompass the spirit of what keeps them inspired on their daily journey to greatness. The winner will be offered a singles deal from RCA Inspiration and the opportunity to perform on the world famous Carnegie Hall stage alongside Maestro Ray Chew for a 'one night only',performance during The Chews, "A Night of Inspiration" December 15, 2018. Inspirational Gospel artist Charles Anderson is the perfect example of turning something negative into a positive. The Florida native uses his turbulent past to connect with today’s generation who are currently faced with similar situations. Charles rebelled from his Christian upbringing at an early age and became involved in gangs, drugs, and lived a reckless lifestyle. He became so unhappy with his life, he attempted suicide. Charles remains an open book about his mistakes as a young man and is determined to use what was once meant for evil, now is being used for good to help guide and strengthen this new generation. Charles is now an inspirational Gospel artist, Worship Leader, songwriter and speaker. Show Me Your Face https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eFO9j-ALg8I&feature=youtu.be Keyondra Lockett is stepping boldly into her new normal as a solo artist, as she makes major moves in support of her independent career and her debut album. She recently inked a partnership deal with IndieBlu/Entertainment One Entertainment, and is making appearances around the country in support of her upcoming album, "The Heal," which is set for release late September. The lead single, 'Try' was recently the #3 most added song at Gospel radio. Lockett made appearances at the Essence Music Festival last month, and is traveling around the country taking her gift to radio stations and churches. The youngest of nine children and, no stranger to the world of the music and younger sister to the Grammy Award winning Gospel duo "Mary Mary". Shanta has performed on the Soul Train Awards, BET Awards, Jay Leno Show, Arsenio Hall Show and for Oprah Winfrey. She can be heard on recorded projects with Kanye West, Mary Mary, Jason Champion, Al Green and Dorinda Clark-Cole. She has sung for some of the greatest like Natalie Cole, U2, Yolanda Adams and BeBe Winans. Shanta Atkins has stepped out from behind the shadows & penned & produced her second newly released single “God Sees You” which speaks to the hearts of those battling suicide & depression. This song is a fresh sound and completely acapella. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ypsjqWDpZuo&feature=youtu.be&utm_source=Gospel+Central+Media&utm_campaign=0de6804808-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2018_05_21_COPY_05&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_e930d0cd50-0de6804808-241881717 Big Film Factory has pegged a release date for its film Beautifully Broken which will be released theatrically on Aug. 24 via ArtAffects. The film is about a refugee's escape, a prisoner's promise and a daughter's painful secret that converge in what is a true story of hope. As three fathers fight to save their families, their lives become intertwined in an unlikely journey across the globe, where they learn the healing power of forgiveness and reconciliation. It will be released into 600 theaters. The Beautifully Broken cast includes Scott William Winters, Benjamin Onyango, Emily Hahn, Eric Roberts, Jessica Obilom, Caitlin Nicol-Thomas, Alan Powell, Eugene Khumbanyiwa, Tammi Arender and Thomasina "Goo Goo" Atkins. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBj3GvFS8JI Shana Wilson-Williams debuted "Everlasting." at #3 on the charts. Wilson-Williams, best known for her singles “Press In Your Presence”, “Give Me You”, and “Never Be the Same” featuring Tasha Cobbs Leonard, drops a debut single “It’s In the Room” and it is doing well. "Everlasting" is a mixture of praise and worship, highlighting spiritual power, the artist’s love for God, and the expression of that love through music. Riding high on the success of his new #1 hit single "Open Your Mouth and Say Something!",rap superstar Childish Gambino has tapped Grammy and Stellar Award winner Brent Jones to record vocals on his new album! One of the biggest stars in the world, Childish Gambino is the musical alter ego of multi-talented actor, rapper, comedian, writer and director Donald Glover, who has taken the world by storm with his brilliant "This Is America" video - which has garnered over 500+ million views and sparked vital discussions about gun violence, mass shootings and racial discrimination in America. "It is an absolute honor working with the brilliant Donald Glover, aka Childish Gambino! Not only is he at the very top of his craft but equally important, he is a great human being with a heart for the people. I'm truly humbled that he chose me to be a part" says Brent Jones. Beyonce and Jay-Z began the Detroit stop of their On The Run II Tour at Ford Field by dedicating the show to hometown legend Aretha Franklin, whose is gravely ill and reportedly in hospice care. “We love you and thank you for all the beautiful music,” Beyonce said about the Queen of Soul. The pair have a bumpy history dating back to the 2008 Grammy Awards, when Bey referred to Tina Turner as ‘the Queen.” Franklin released a statement taking exception, calling it “a cheap shot for controversy,” but concluding by giving “love to Beyonce anyway.” Less than a year later, however, Franklin defended Beyonce’s decision to lip-sync the National Anthem at President Barack Obama’s first inauguration. The 2018 Ubiquitous Women’s Expo, formerly known as The Ubiquitous Beauty | Hair | Health Expo, returns to Washington, D.C. to celebrate 5 Years of Excellence. “The Power of Us!” initiative is curated to bring women of color together in a space that revitalizes the mind, body, and soul through empowerment, collaboration and encouragement. This year, the Ubiquitous Women’s Expo will present Jasmin Foster, Sr Beauty Buyer for Target Corporation, with the Industry Game Changer Award for her commitment to multicultural inclusion at Target stores. Richelieu Dennis, Co-Founder and CEO of New Voices Fund and Founder of Shea Moisture will receive the first ever Ubiquitous Man of the Year Award! This two-day event will take place on August 25 & 26, 2018 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Look for entertainment by Anita Wilson, Doug E. Fresh and NBC’s The “Voice” Semi-finalists Davon Fleming and Joe Maye. Grammy® Award-Winning Platinum Recording Artist Tamela Mann and NAACP Image® Award-Winning Comedian David Mann announce their Us Against the World Mann Family Tour fall dates featuring David, Tamela, son David Mann Jr, and daughter Tia Mann, sharing an evening of music, comedy and family entertainment. The tour includes David and Tamela performing new tracks from their upcoming, first-ever joint album, Us Against the World: The Love Project. The Mann Family Tour kicks off October 11 in Fresno, Calif. with 20 dates planned for 2018. "We're excited to get back out on tour with our kids this fall," said David, executive producer of the tour. Added Tamela, "It's a family experience with something for everyone." A source very close to Aretha and a longtime dear friend tells TMZ he was told a week ago, "Prepare yourself, she's dying." The source adds Aretha was down to 86 pounds and her health was failing. The source says 2 weeks ago everyone in Aretha's circle was told "she could go any time." Another source -- someone who has been close to Aretha for decades -- tells TMZ she has been battling cancer since 2010. Franklin, who is 76, has been in poor health over the last few years. She has performed, but only on a limited basis ... most recently last November at an Elton John AIDS Foundation event. The news that her health is failing first came from Roger Friedman of Showbiz411, and WDIV TV in Detroit says Aretha's family confirmed she is gravely ill. The Queen of Soul could go at any time. Erica's plans for a hair music festival to promote her nascent wig line, "Erica by Erica Campbell" are put into jeopardy when she and Warryn decide to shoot a music video for their first ever duet, "All of My Life." Warryn tries to lose weight quickly so he's camera ready but what happens when he gets to set and none of the clothes fit and they're running out of light? Also, Warryn struggles with letting his little girl grow up, when he discovers Krista has been wearing makeup to school without their permission. Tune in to WE'RE THE CAMPBELLS every Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT on TV One. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8iqweOU3fcM&feature=youtu.be TV One announced today that production is currently underway on season five of hit franchise RICKEY SMILEY FOR REAL, a one-hour docu-series featuring award-winning syndicated radio personality, host and stand-up comedian Rickey Smiley, as he tries to juggle his career and home life. This season premieres on Tuesday, October 30 at 8 p.m. ET/7C and captures Smiley as he continues to navigate the ups and downs of professional demands, single fatherhood and intimate relationships. Shooting in Atlanta, where he resides during the week, and in his hometown of Birmingham, Alabama, where he raises his family, Smiley’s struggle to find work-life balance while trying to maintain a love life has become a central focus and source of laughter for fans of the show. Golden State Warrior Steph Curry has helped raise more than $21,000 for the family of Nia Wilson, the teen who was fatally stabbed on an Oakland train platform last month by an alleged white supremacist. The attack on the 18-year-old has rocked the nation and on Tuesday, the NBA star spoke out about Wilson before a showcase game for young Bay Area athletes at the Kezar Pavilion in San Francisco, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5y4f7gUQNE six-time GRAMMY® winning artist, ISRAEL HOUGHTON, unveiled the cover art for his highly anticipated album, Road To DeMaskUs. In addition to sharing the cover with his fans, Houghton launched the album’s second single,“Promise Keeper,” featuring Travis Greene. Road To DeMaskUs will release in September and is available for pre-order on September 7th. Road To DeMaskUs is a nod to the popular Biblical tale of the Apostle Paul’s journey of transformation. The title displays an intentionally creative spelling as it encourages the removal of all the “masks” we find ourselves wearing in life. Whether we are masking our emotions, or masking our authentic selves, Houghton is passionate about reminding people that God’s love is not based upon who we are pretending to be. Rather, it is present & available for us exactly as we are. Houghton’s prayer is that this album becomes a tool to help de-mask us. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3esU86m3zU IGOT YOU", is the hot new single by the incomparable, anointed, vocal powerhouse, RUTH LA'ONTRA. Many of you loved her 1st single "Kingdom", that was a huge success and like the 1st this 2nd single, does not disappoint. Written & produced by Gospel Superstar Anthony Brown, this follow-up, summer hit, is a Gospel radio gem. Musically this song is a whimiscal, fun, throwback to the "GoGo Surf" sound of the '60's. There is a bounce in this song that will have you bobbing your head continuously and put a smile on your face and in your heart. Hear Ruth La'Ontra In Her Own Words...http://gospel-spotlight.com/ruthlaontra_intvw.htm Fresh on the heels of his new #1 hit single “Open Your Mouth and Say Something!” (Billboard's #1 Most Added Song at Radio), Grammy and Stellar Award winner Brent Jones is also set to release a new Christmas CD "Brent Jones & JDI Christmas - The Soul of Christmas" (on Oct 1st) and his Sermon album "Open Your Mouth and Say Something" (on Nov 1st). Motown Gospel celebrates multiple nominations across different categories for the 49th Annual Dove Awards.. Among the top nomination-getters is Grammy Award winner, Tasha Cobbs Leonard who received 5 nominations for her prolific current album";HEART. PASSION. PURSUIT." Cobbs Leonard is nominated for Artist of the Year, Gospel Artist of the Year, Urban Worship Album of the Year. She also picked up additional nominations for Urban Worship Recorded Song of the Year and for Producer of the Year with her husband Kenneth Leonard. Also receiving multiple nominations is Brian Courtney Wilson who received two nominations for his current project ";A GREAT WORK.." Wilson is nominated for Contemporary Gospel/Urban Album of the Year and Contemporary Gospel/Urban Recorded Song of the Year. Hear Brian Courtney Wilson In His Own Words... Tauren Wells celebrates multiple nominations across different categories for the 49th Annual Dove Awards. Tauren Wells leads the pack of artist nominees with seven nominations, including Song of the Year and New Artist of the Year. The Dove Awards will take place on October 16, 2018 in Nashville, TN at Lipscomb University and broadcast on TBN on Sunday, October 21, 2018. The GMA Dove Awards celebrate the contributions of artists from every style of Christian/Gospel music. Entertainment Icon, Snoop Dogg continues to push new boundaries in the Entertainment, Arts and Culture worlds. Today, the legendary artist announced his theatrical debut in a new stage musical "Redemption Of A Dogg", co-starring Tamar Braxton. Snoop Dogg has partnered with Award-winning writer, director, producer Je’Caryous Johnson, who brings the biggest and best to urban theatre audiences across the country. "Redemption Of A Dogg makes its debut on the heels of the 25th Anniversary of Snoop Dogg’s debut album,"Doggystyle." "Redemption Of A Dogg" will kick off in Houston, TX on October 5 and make multiple stops across the US. "Redemption Of A Dogg" chronicles a character built around the persona of Snoop Dogg, a multi-faceted character who is a gangsta rapper, family man and man of God. "Redemption Of A Dogg" examines the internal battle one man has between preserving his life-long legacy and losing the love of his life when he is faced with choosing fame and fortune over faith and family. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g92IuvEGAdQ Anthony Brown & group therAPy collect two more Dove Award nominations for their 2017 project "A Long Way From Sunday." Brown & group therAPy earned nods in both Contemporary Gospel/Urban Categories. "I Got That," was nominated for Gospel/Urban Recorded Song of the Year and "A Long Way From Sunday" was nominated for Gospel/ Urban Recorded Album of the Year. This is the third consecutive year for Brown & group therAPy to receive recognition from the GMA Dove Awards. Brown is a two-time previous Dove Award winner. Brown is a multiple Award winner, who continues to expand his music ministry. He is currently in production for his holiday play "The Uncut Coming of Christ," which he co-wrote, and co-produced with Joshua Jenkins. This 'Broadway-style' production will feature all original music and and is slated to open in December at First Baptist Church of Glenarden. Hear Anthony Brown In His Own Words... "Grammy ®Award-winning singer, songwriter and actress Stephanie Mills and renowned hip hop group Whodini have been added to the dynamic list of honorees for the 2018 Black Music Honors. The highly anticipated evening, hosted by television and radio personality Rickey Smiley and Grammy® Award-winner and actress LeToya Luckett, will celebrate the artistry of the music industry's most revered icons. Mills will receive the Legends Award, honoring her illustrious music and acting career spanning more than four decades. Brooklyn-based rap group, Whodini, will be presented the Hip Hop Icon Award for their musical contributions. The celebratory night will also feature exciting performances by Keyshia Cole, Raheem DeVaughn, Next, Young Buck, Yo-Yo, Ruben Studdard, Jade Novah, Demetria McKinney, V. Bozeman, Tasha Page-Lockhart, Monie Love, Kierra Sheard, and Jonathan McReynolds. RCA Inspiration artists received eleven nominations for the 49th Annual GMA Dove Awards. Releases from gospel and inspirational superstars Kirk Franklin, Travis Greene, Koryn Hawthorne, Marvin Sapp, and The Walls Group and hip-hop icon Snoop Dogg garnered nominations in eight categories: Gospel Artist of the Year, New Artist of the Year, Urban Worship Album of the Year, Contemporary Gospel/Urban Album of the Year, Urban Worship Recorded Song of the Year, Contemporary Gospel/Urban Recorded Song of the Year, Traditional Gospel Recorded Song of the Year, and Recorded Music Packaging of the Year. Additionally, RCAI artist Israel Houghton received a nomination for Spanish Language Album of the Year as a producer. Each year the GMA Dove Awards highlight the best in Christian and Gospel music, including Pop/Contemporary, Traditional Gospel, Contemporary Gospel, and other categories. RCA Inspiration 2018 GMA Dove Award nominations: Kirk Franklin (Fo Yo Soul/RCA Inspiration) GOSPEL ARTIST OF THE YEAR Travis Greene GOSPEL ARTIST OF THE YEAR URBAN WORSHIP ALBUM OF THE YEAR – Crossover: Live from Music City URBAN WORSHIP RECORDED SONG OF THE YEAR – “You Waited” Koryn Hawthorne NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR CONTEMPORARY GOSPEL/URBAN RECORDED SONG OF THE YEAR – “Won’t He Do It” (ft. Roshon Fegan) Israel Houghton SPANISH LANGUAGE ALBUM OF THE YEAR (as producer) – Revive (Lucía Parker) (with Co-Producer Jake Salomon) Marvin Sapp TRADITIONAL GOSPEL RECORDED SONG OF THE YEAR – “Close” Snoop Dogg (All The Time Entertainment/RCA Inspiration) CONTEMPORARY GOSPEL/URBAN ALBUM OF THE YEAR – Snoop Dogg Presents Bible of Love CONTEMPORARY GOSPEL/URBAN RECORDED SONG OF THE YEAR – “You” (ft. Tye Tribbett) The Walls Group (Fo Yo Soul/RCA Inspiration) TRADITIONAL GOSPEL RECORDED SONG OF THE YEAR – “And You Don’t Stop” RECORDED MUSIC PACKAGING OF THE YEAR – The Other Side (Art director: Tim Parker, Graphic designer: David Navejas, Photographer: Blair Campbell) Although Adrienne Hougton has never really considered herself overweight, some fans have stated otherwise in her Instagram comments. “If I’m honest, my weight gain in the last few years has been like a struggle for me where I’m like, I never looked at myself as being overweight. And it was weird to hear so many comments at one point that I was fat, and ‘Oh my God, she let herself go!’ I was like, ‘Whoa.’ So that was a little bit weird.” According to Adrienne, her desire to get serious about her physical health was inspired by her own her own standards of beauty, not what the trolls in her comment section wrote about her. “I just did what I had to do to be comfortable in my own skin. And I think that’s the most important thing. It wasn’t necessarily to please other people.” Patrice Gopo offers "All The Colors We Will See" as a way for readers to understand our differences and extends ways to connect. Through personal stories, shared memories and honest experiences Gopo provides a deep look into the search for identity and belonging. A poignant, poetic and often-time courageous collection of personal essays, "All The Colors We Will See" delves into the current state of our culture that is grappling with the realities of racial injustices, an explosion of immigration issues and invites readers to join her as she searches for her identity and encourages others to find what truly unites us. New Music from Israel Houghton and Travis Greene drops today. "Promise Keeper." This is a SMASH!!!!!!!! We caught up with Israel back in the day. Hear Israel Houghton In His Own Words...http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/israel_intvw.htm IMA Entertainment CEO David Brown continues his quest to build a roster of artists that represent Gospel music at its best. In addition to breakout artist Alaina Rose, Brown recently announced the additions of Simone Brown and Anthony Smith and Fully Committed. CJ Entertainment LLC announces the release of the NEW SINGLE “Moving Forward” written and produced by new comer Aaron Freeman featuring Gospel Industry veteran Pastor Courtney Franklin of Memphis, TN. This new up tempo track encourages the listener to move past your mistakes, wrong doings, and failures and to focus on your future! Aaron recently inked a deal with Indie Blu Music which is distributed through Entertainment One for the single Moving Forward which will be distributed through all digital media outlets! "We're The Campbells" After years of producing music for Erica, Warryn finally steps up to the mic for more than background vocals and records a full-fledged duet with his wife. Warryn always demands the best out of his artists but how will he take Erica's direction when the tables are turned? Warryn's reaction is priceless when the First Lady Erica puts on her producer hat and Warryn takes his turn in the booth! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pt0CqzuX8tk&feature=youtu.be God has blessed Jimmy Hicks in the music industry and he decided a long time ago that he wanted to copyright songs and start recording, God has Blessed him in his recording of songs such as "Turn It Around" in 2001, "Blessed Like That", "Babylon, and "Crossroads" in 2003 "Born Blessed" in 2006, "God's Got It" in 2009 and "Back Up", "Move, "It Will Come To Pass." "I Owe God A Praise" is from his latest Project WATERWAY by Jimmy Hicks & ACOJ. He realizes that people are living in critical times and you need to have and feel the spirit for divine direction and clarity of thought in order to make it through. Dove and Stellar Award nominated, Bryan Andrew Wilson, has created a smooth, breezy soundtrack to close this incredibly hot summer of 2018. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1u9_DpNOZ1E Trump meet with John Gray, Harry Jackson, Van Moody, Alveda King and other Inner City pastors....https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HQh0AD7Ros Apostle Veryl Howard founder of “God’s Women in Music, Ministry, Business & Entertainment” is no stranger to the entertainment world. She established Faith Management & Talent Casting and is known to many as one of the most sought after managers and promoters in the world of Gospel music. She is also the author of two books where her most recent book is “God is My Ticket out the Ghetto”. Her writing has allowed her to write for several magazines including “Devine Glory”, “The Piece Magazine” and “Change Magazine” to name a few. She is also a radio host at I Am Gospel Radio as well as other stations with a global show called “Beyond Borders”. But most importantly she views herself as a servant of God. It's Apostle Veryl Howard In Her Own Words...http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/apostleverylhoward_intvw.htm After a year-long hiatus, Casey J returns with an incredible worship project 'The Gathering' which will release early 2019. In advance of the album, Casey shares the recording's first radio single, "If God", which beautifully answers life's most difficult questions with the resounding affirmation found in Romans 8:31: What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? "If God" is available for download on all digital platforms on Friday, August 3. Hear Casey J In Her Own Words... http://gospel-spotlight.com/caseyj_intvw.htm This Thursday, August 2nd @8PM ET/7 PM CT, Trinity Broadcasting network (TBN), will premiere a new musical series, "Gospel Worship Experience" (GWE). The program is hosted by celebrated singer/actor, JAVEN, and Grammy® Award winning singer/producer, Tye Tribbett. The first episode of GWE was taped at TBN's The Holy Land Experience complex in Orlando, Florida. Each episode showcases today's top recording artists leading the audience in the studio into a gospel worship experience. The first episode features dynamic musical ministry from Grammy® Award winner, Tasha Cobbs Leonard. Multiple Stellar Gospel Music Award winner, Anthony Brown & group Therapy also appeared. Chart-topping recording artist Jekalyn Carr has released the second radio single "It's Yours" from her No.1 album "One Nation Under God" to Gospel radio. This week the song is the No.1 Most Added Song, No.2 Most Increased Song at Gospel Radio. Carr continues to spread the message of Jesus through song and encouraging others that they can win. Churches and praise dancers across the country have been responding to this uplifting declaration in a big way.'It's Yours"is the 2nd most streamed song from Carr';s project." Stellar Award Nominated Contemporary Gospel ensemble Vincent Tharpe and Kenosis (VTK) are traveling around the United States singing about how super excited they are about Christ. The Memphis based group is even more pumped as their album SUPER EXCITED has topped the Billboard Gospel Charts this week. SUPER EXCITEDdebuted at #2 on the Billboard Current Gospel Album Sales Chart and #10 on the Billboard Top Gospel Albums Chart. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hx6AH7YrqjI&feature=youtu.be Minister Kirk Franklin joined Dr. Bobby Jones and theNashville Super Choir and guests: The Voices of Hope from (Washington, D.C.), Tanetta Winters (Las Vegas, Nevada), Daryl Bowers and Legacy (Nashville, Tennessee) for a dynamic, powerful television special, to be aired on The Impact Television Network, Saturday and Sunday, August 4th and 5th, 2018, at 2:00 PM. The musical presentations arranged by Kirk Franklin and Derrick Lee, were remarkable. You don’t want to miss this tantalizing dialogue between two giants of the gospel music industry, Dr Jones and Minister Kirk Franklin. Riding high on the success of his new #1 hit single "Open Your Mouth and Say Something!" Grammy and Stellar Award winner Brent Jones headlines a star-studded lineup performing at the National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses - affectionately known as the Dorsey Convention - Aug 4th thru 10th in Dallas, TX. Founded by gospel trailblazer Thomas Dorsey, the Father of Gospel Music, the Dorsey Convention is the oldest singing organization in the world dedicated to the continuation and advancement of gospel music around the globe. Donnie McClurkin and Brent Jones are just a few of the many gospel stars who will be on hand to celebrate the 85th anniversary of the Dorsey Convention. Reverend Dr. Alyn E. Waller, pastor of Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church in Philadelphia, PA has a group of millennial choir singers that are dynamic in presentation and passionate in praise. Those singers are his Fresh Anointing choir who released their album TOTALLY this spring. TOTALLY has garnered the choir two Gospel radio hits "Holy, Holy" and "Oh, How I Love Jesus" featuring Gospel icon John P. Kee. Their third single, "God Is", has cracked the Top 40 Gospel Radio Singles Chart and is now being released in lyric video format. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqqQzb2-InU&feature=youtu.be Grammy Award Winning songwriter Makeba Riddick-Woods marks her debut into the gospel music industry with the #1 song “Wont He Do It” as recorded by Koryn Hawthorne. Woods is no stranger to songwriting, having written multiple #1 songs for Beyonce (“déjà vu”), Jennifer Lopez (“All I Have”), Rihanna (“Rude Boy”) and more. Rising star Koryn Hawthorne’s debut album “Unstoppable” debuted at #1 on the Billboard Gospel Charts. With Makeba’s songwriting assistance, Koryn has become the first woman to top four gospel charts simultaneously in five years. “Unstoppable’s” hit anthem “Won’t He Do It” continues its stronghold on the charts and on radio, sitting in the top spot on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs chart, Billboard’s Gospel Digital Song sales chart, Billboard’s Gospel Airplay chart, and the MediaBase Gospel chart. The song has been on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs chart at #1 for 19 weeks overall. In addition, it’s been #1 on Billboard’s Gospel Digital Song Sales chart for twelve weeks overall, #1 for eleven weeks overall on Billboard’s Gospel Airplay chart and the MediaBase Gospelchart, and has over 17.7 million streams to date. As Lewis prepares to enter the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Aug. 4, it’s natural to celebrate his playing career and what he meant to Baltimore. But those who know him well say it’s a mistake to overlook his impact on players from other teams and on people outside of football entirely. Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti actually found it mildly frustrating when Lewis would counsel stars on rival teams. “It was like, ‘Don’t give it to them,’ ” Bisciotti said, laughing. “But he did, because he was genuine. He wanted the best for players, and he never felt the end result wasn’t worth the effort, even if it made his competition better. Which is admirable.” Because of Lewis’ hunger for engagement, his reach extended beyond football, to police and religious leaders in Baltimore, to Under Armour founder and CEO Kevin Plank, and yes, to the most decorated Olympian in history Michael Phelps. Each of these people talk openly about how Lewis has offered a strong shoulder during troubled times and how he leaves them feeling uplifted after each encounter. It has just dropped "The Three Sides of Damien Sneed: Classical, Jazz and Sanctified Soul." The three-disc CD features 39 tracks with more than two hours of music. "The Three Sides of Damien Sneed" is available on iTunes, Amazon, Google Play and all other digital retail outlets everywhere. This magnum opus showcases the broad musicality of Sneed, whose musical skills and performance credits encompass everything from jazz and show tunes to opera and R&B. The set includes original tunes composed by Sneed as well as his unique arrangements of known works. Wynter Evans Pitts, niece of Dr. Tony Evans and mother of actress Alena Pitts died suddenly Tuesday night. Alena, who played the role of Danielle Jordan in the hit faith-based film "War Room" alongside her aunt, Bible teacher Priscilla Shirer, posted the shocking news on Instagram. The funeral for Wynter Evans Pitts, a Christian author, speaker, and ministry leader was held Saturday, July 28, at Oaks Church in Red Oak, TX. The homegoing service can be viewed online at http://oaks.churchonline.org/. Grammy winner Brent Jones, fresh on the heels of his new hit single "Open Your Mouth And Say Something" is returning to Waco, TX Sun, July 29th to record his first ever live preaching CD! Recording live at the Victorious Life Church. "Good preaching is truly an art form" says JDI founder Professor James Roberson, "... so we are super excited to be introducing Brent Jones' anointed preaching ministry to the world - be prepared to be blessed!" Also on October 1st it's the release of Brent's new Christmas CD entitled "Brent Jones & JDI Christmas" featuring the hit single "The Soul of Christmas." Earnest Pugh, will release, The UnSung Hits Vol. 1 September 7th. It’s an album of previously un-promoted recordings that were created over the course of his two decades long career. “The Unsung Hits,” is a ten-track collection of songs that features duets with some of gospel music’s leading and legendary voices, such as Bishop Rance Allen, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, D’Atra Hicks and Michelle Prather. Cedric Thompson, Michael Bereal and Keith Williams are the producers. Hear Earnest Pugh In His Own Words... http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/earnestpugh_intvw.htm 3-time GRAMMY®-nominated, 11-time Stellar Award-winning Travis Greene presents a power-packed weekend of entertainment, worship, and community festivities with this year’s Engage Culture Weekend. Travis Greene will welcome a range of special guests during Engage Culture Weekend from Friday August 17th to Sunday August 19th in Columbia, SC – reaching out beyond the church to engage and take the inspiring power and message of worship out to the masses – in serving the greater community and those in need. The Engage Culture Weekend will feature events including a city-wide service project, a celebrity basketball game, inspiring worship, music and entertainment, with Travis Greene, Elevation Worship, Pastor John Gray and Relentless Worship, Israel and Adrienne Bailon Houghton, JJ Hairston, Pastor Tavner Smith, Michelle Williams, and more. The World famous Kingdom Choir, under the direction of Karen Gibson celebrated with news of their signing to Sony Music UK. This distinctive choral aggregation delighted audiences with a rousing rendition of “Stand By Me” at the nuptials of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in May. Seen by well over 2 billion people, The Kingdom Choir’s performance of “Stand By Me” made an impressive-debut at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs chart and selling some 9,000 downloads of their new cover, originally recorded by Ben E. King. Lavelle Lacy has passed. An outstanding musician and songwriter, Lavelle was a huge part of the Chicago Gospel Sound in the 70s, 80s and 90s, riting the hits for choirs and accompanying groups and soloists for more than 4 decades, Lavelle wrote for some of Gospel music’s best and brightest. I Won’t Forget, Jesus Is Mine, So Glad I’m Saved – Dr. Charles G. Hayes and the Cosmopolitan Church of Prayer Choir. I Found Jesus (and I’m Glad) – Chicago Mass Choir/Reverend Maceo Woods and the Christian Tabernacle Concert Choir. He Keeps on Blessing Me – Ricky Dillard and New G. Call Him Up – Chicago Mass Choir. A larger than life fellow with personality to match, Lavelle was known for his comedic banter, his generosity and hospitality. His “brother’s keeper mentality” would lead to the organization of the Chicago Musician’s Coalition, a monthly fellowship for musicians and Gospel music personel. Rising star Koryn Hawthorne celebrates with her fans around the world as her debut album Unstoppable, released on July 13th, sparks a slate of #1s on the latest Gospel charts. The album debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums chart, and garnered over 1.2 million streams in its first week of release. Unstoppable’s hit anthem “Won’t He Do It” continues its stronghold on the charts and at radio, sitting in the top spot on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs chart, Billboard’s Gospel Digital Song Sales chart, Billboard’s Gospel Airplay chart, and the MediaBase Gospel chart. The song has been on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs chart at #1 for 19 weeks overall. In addition, it’s been #1 onBillboard’s Gospel Digital Song Sales chart for twelve weeks overall, #1 for eleven weeks overall on Billboard’s Gospel Airplay chart and the MediaBase Gospel chart, and has over 17.7 million streams to date. Fresh off the road from the popular Summer Lights Tour, the 20-year-old artist is busy promotingUnstoppable and will continue touring in the fall. She’ll also make a guest appearance on the third season of OWN’s hit series, Greenleaf, in September. Gospel recording artist James Fortune has remarried. The two time Grammy Nominated, Multiple Stellar Award Winner artist shared the news on his official @MrJamesfortune Instagram page. The heart felt news was shared on the “Dear Future Me” page. around Under the graphic that read Mr. & Mrs. Fortune, he wrote, “Who would have thought that when I received a call that you had been nearly killed by a drunk driver that my visit to see you would turn into this. Your near death experience would be the start of my new life. You helped me dream again, trust again, and most importantly you showed me that I was worth being loved again. You are strong, selfless, patient, hardworking, intelligent, and the best mom a child could ever dream of. I have enjoyed your love, dedication and compassion privately but with a heart that is overflowing I had to share the one who has truly helped me progress in life & love. I don't know how long I am going to live but I know that every single second will be worth a lifetime because it will be spent with you. @misskellz_ Fortune Forever I Love You!” Hear Janes Fortune In His Own Words...http://gospel-spotlight.com/james_fortune_intvw.htm Ed Rivadavia, Vice President, Digital Strategy, Sony Music Nashville has appointed Justin Tomlinson as Manager, Digital Strategy, Sony Music Nashville. Reporting directly to Rivadavia and currently in his new capacity, Tomlinson manages day-to-day strategy for his designated artist roster, while acting as webmaster for SonyMusicNashville.com and overseeing development and content for the label group's social media channels. Vincent Tharpe and Kenosis (VTK) have now released their second album SUPER EXCITED. SUPER EXCITED is a follow-up to the groups 2014 Stellar Award nominated album VINCENT THARPE AND KENOSIS: LIVE IN MEMPHIS. The new album continues to showcase VTK’s signature electrifying performances and also allows the groups front man Vincent Tharpe to shine as a songwriter. SUPER EXCITED is available on iTunes and Amazon and features special appearances by Gospel music icon John P. Kee on "Victory" and BET's Sunday Best Season 6 runner-up Kefia Rollersonon "Reign". VTK's title track and new single "Super Excited" is impacting Gospel radio now. https://soundcloud.com/the-bellamy-group/vincent-tharpe-and-kenosis-super-excited Fred ” Uncle Freddie” Jerkins III, President of Dark Child Gospel, has announced, A Project of Healing , the first of a series of gospel and mainstream compilation albums that will benefit cancer awareness, empowerment and education. Hear Fred Jerkins In His Own Words...http://gospel-spotlight.com/fredjerkins_intvw.htm Meet an exciting new group Last Call, they are featured on "A Project For Healing" album. Hear Last Call In Their Own Words... http://gospel-spotlight.com/lastcall_intvw.htm Central City Productions (CCP) announced today the 2018 Black Music Honors - the annual two-hour television special that honors artists and musicians who have influenced and made significant contributions to American music. The television special is set to take place on Thursday, August 16th in Nashville, TN. This year's honorees include Bobby Brown, who will receive the R&B Soul Music Icon Award for his 40 years in entertainment and 32 years as a solo artist, Bebe and Cece Winans, who will be co-honorees of the Gospel Music Icon Award, and chart-topping music producer and label executive Dallas Austin, who will be presented with the Music Innovator Icon Award, and multi-platinum, Grammy® Award-winning recording artist, songwriter and producer Faith Evans, who is set to receive the Urban Music Icon Award. Rickey Smiley and LeToya Luckett return as co-hosts which is set to air in syndication Sept. 8-30, 2018. BLACK ENTERPRISE will present its highest honor in recognition of the achievements of black men when it presents the XCEL Awards at the 2018 Black Men XCEL Summit on Aug. 29, 2018, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. The Black Men XCEL Summit celebrates the achievements of today's black men. The Summit, which offers executive development and leadership for men. The Summit, hosted by FedEx, will take place Aug. 29–Sept. 2, 2018, at the PGA National Resort & Spa. The XCEL Awards recognize outstanding impact, achievement, and leadership by men in business, the arts, education, government and other influential areas. Past XCEL Award recipients include luminaries such as U.S. Rep. John Lewis, award-winning actor Robert Townsend, historian, author, curator and Founding Director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture Lonnie G." Hear Bishop Jakes In His Own Words...http://gospel-spotlight.com/TD_Jakes_01JAN2010_intvw.wav Now that the season is behind him, Golden State Warrior Stephen Curry has his eyes set on a new venture: producing faith-based and family-focused films. Curry announced in April that he was getting into the entertainment business by way of a wide-ranging deal between his production company, Unanimous Media, and Sony Pictures Entertainment. The All-Star guard sat down with Variety to talk about the details of his new venture, including several films already in development. As noted in the report, the partnership aims to extend as far as video games, virtual reality and consumer products. But films and TV are the focus of the deal, with concentrations in three core areas: faith, family and sports. Erica and Wozy celebrate their birthdays together with a joint party, but when Wozy doesn't have any friends to invite, Erica tries to help him come out of his shell. Warryn misfires with a string of lame birthday presents to Erica including a salt and pepper shaker, but perhaps Warryn has something bigger in store for her. Joi records a music video for her new single, Coco Butter, but her message of self-acceptance is put to the test when the concept of the video requires her to dress like a naked doll. Following his surgery, Warryn attempts to get back in shape and improve his health. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oNeXONUfw1E&feature=youtu.be. While Will McMillan may not (yet) be a household name, his creativity and musical genius are more familiar than one might know. McMillan, Minister of Music at i5 City Church in Baltimore, Maryland, has collaborated with such Gospel music luminaries as Tasha Cobbs, Jason Nelson, Jonathan Nelson and William McDowell. McDowell, along with Travis Greene, has also entrusted McMillan with music director duties along the way. A self-taught artist and musician, McMillan’s creative sensibilities bridge tradition with a contemporary and fresh approach that appeals to Gospel music fans of all ages. McMillan’s debut album, My Story, is available from eOne. The lead single, “Best Thing,” is a remake of the James Cleveland classic, “Jesus is the Best Thing. youtube.com/watch?v=oNeXONUfw1E&feature=youtu.be. Bishop Leonard Scott drops 'Jesus Love Legacy', his latest offering and is arguably his best work! Scott teamed up with some notable names to put together this 12 song release. Most of the songs were penned by Bishop Scott; however, the first single"Working In My Favor" which features Fred Hammond & Shirley Murdock was penned by Phillip Feaster & hit song writer Tiffany "TIFF JOY" McGhee who wrote "Amazing" which was the 2016 BMI Gospel Song of the Year. Other noteworthy tracks include the bouncy, soulful energy laced groove "Power In The Name" which features Rance Allen and Kevin Vassar and "Hymns"a beautiful medley of (Draw Me Nearer & I Surrender All). Most notable for penning timeless songs for Ashmont Hill and JJ Hairston’s “Love Lifted Me”, Phil Thompson has successfully stepped forward from behind the pen to release his own solo project My Worship – capturing the hearts of worshippers across the globe. With the full album itself debuting at #1 on Billboard’s Gospel Chart Thompson’s viral single is quickly becoming a Sunday morning staple at churches worldwide! After garnering more than 1 million views on YouTube in just two short months, “My Worship” has crossed country borders and has already been covered on social media by people in various languages including Russian, Spanish, Portuguese, and French. Thus far in 2018, Phil has already performed the viral hit “My Worship” in Ghana, Canada, and London with confirmed dates that include Trinidad, Barbados, South Africa, Brazil, Nigeria before year’s end. Demetrius West & Jesus Promoters label debut and sophomore project ChoirOlogy: The Study of Choir Music will be released on Friday, August 10th in-stores and on all digital outlets. Fans can pre-order beginning Friday, July 27th and will receive an instant new grat track every week. Indianapolis, Indiana based Demetrius West. Off the heels of making an major appearance at ESSENCE Fest in New Orleans last week, Two-Time Stellar Award nominated sibling group The Showers was featured on The 700 Club Tuesday, July 17th at 10a EST/9a CST and a re-run at 11pm EST/10pm CST airing on Disney–ABC Television Group's cable network Freeform (formerly ABC Family). A vocal group comprised of seven of ten siblings, The Showers grew up in Hammond, LA - a Christan household, and use their music to express their faith and spread the Lord's message to others. The family of late music legend Whitney Houston has been rocked by the latest allegation made by Whitney’s brother Gary Houston following the release of the new “Whitney” documentary. According to a family source, after claiming that both he and his sister were molested by their cousin, Dee Dee Warwick, matriarch Cissy Houston has exiled Gary from the clan’s fold, “Cissy called him and told him ‘I’m cutting you out of my will,’ and hung up the phone,” said the source. Gary made the shocking allegation in the new documentary in which 60 of Whitney’s closest friends and family members opened up about her life and theorized about what may have led to her downward spiral into drug addiction. New music from Smokie Norful's background singer "LeNasia Tyson" !? ? Praise Party is an upbeat, catchy song. LeNasia welcomes you to her "Praise Party" Fred "Uncle Freddie" Jerkins III, President of DarkChild Gospel, has announced, A Project of Healing, the first of a series of gospel and mainstream compilation albums that will benefit cancer awareness, empowerment and education. This album will feature guest artist such as Bishop Paul S. Morton, Lowell Pye, Darlene McCoy, Alexis Spight, Jonathan Nelson, Trin-I-Tee 5:7 and more. The first single titled "We Won" featuring Jonathan Nelson is currently at radio and available on all digital media outlets. A stage play inspired by the project is currently being written and directed by Kim Fields. This project will be available this October 2017. After 9 weeks of having the #1 single, Worship Artist, Todd Dulaney's "Your Great Name" is still catching fire. The title track from his third album is yet, another great anthem penned by Dulaney. Todd Dulaney releases the Maxi Single of "Your Great Name," which include 5 new versions of the song. On the Maxi Single, there is a Live in Orlando version featuring Todd's long-time singer, Nicole Harris, a Spanish version, a Children's version, led by Todd's Children Todd Jr. and Taylor, a Ballad version, a CCM version, and of course, the original version. Soweto Gospel Choir's universal message of love, unity and hope, along with its captivating melodic and harmonic wonder, mesmerizing showmanship and awe-inspiring performances, has made believers of millions of fans around the world. Since the Choir emerged on the global music scene in 2002, it has received the kind of accolades most groups only dream of. The acclaimed South African World Music sensations has earned two Grammy Awards, scored two #1 Billboard World Music Chart albums and has earned the distinction as the only South African music act to ever perform at the Oscars. They have had the opportunity to either record or perform with Stevie Wonder, Peter Gabriel, Bono, Pharrell Williams, Aretha Franklin and Kirk Franklin, among many others. Not many artists can count as their supporters the likes of the late Nelson Mandela, Archbishop Desmond Tutu (the official patron of the Choir) and the current President of the Republic of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa. On September 14, 2018 Soweto Gospel Choir will release its highly anticipated sixth Shanachie Entertainment recording, Freedom, a riveting collection of freedom songs from South Africa and beyond, marking the Centennial of Nelson Mandela's birth. Chart-topper and former “The Voice” finalist Koryn Hawthorne, sets off a musical explosion of inspiration with her new album, Unstoppable, available everywhere now. Giving fans a powerful dose of fresh beats and encouragement in being victorious and fearless, to be unstoppable through faith and purpose, the 20-year-old young star blazes a new melodic trail on her full length debut album of 10 tracks, incorporating her artistic influences of pop, gospel, soul, contemporary rock-inspired sounds and more. Koryn Hawthorne has set a record as the highest streaming new gospel artist, with over 21 million streams to date. Her #1 hit single “Won’t He Do It” remains a chart-topping smash with fans. Koryn Hawthorne In Her Own Words... http://gospel-spotlight.com/korynhawthorne_intvw.htm Jonathan McReynolds is sharing dates for his upcoming fall "Make Room" tour, including dates in Brooklyn, Philadelphia, Detroit, and Memphis. The tour comes on the heels of a high-profile streaming premiere for his live concert video "Jonathan McReynolds: Make Room" exclusively on global music and entertainment platform TIDAL. As part of the partnership, all ticket sales for the tour will include a free three month membership to TIDAL. The live concert recording was previously broadcast as a network TV special in March exclusively to TVOne, and it's available freely online for the first time now, exclusively at TIDAL.com/JonathanMcReynolds. Jonathan will be on tour from September 6th-21st with special guests to be announced.September 6th – Detroit, MI at El Club September 9th – Cleveland, OH at House of Blues September 10th – Brooklyn, NY at Knitting Factory September 13th – Vienna, VA at Jammin Java September 15th – Richmond, VA at Capital Ale House September 16th – Philadelphia, PA at The Foundry September 18th – Decatur, GA at Eddie’s Attic September 20th – Memphis, TN at 1884 Lounge September 21st – St. Louis, MO at The Firebird. Xernona Clayton, who broke race and gender barriers in national broadcast TV and worked closely with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to end racial inequality in America, will talk about her life and experiences at the 2018 Women's Leadership Conference (WLC). The conference, in its 12th year, is sponsored by The MGM Resorts Foundation. It will be held Aug. 27-28 at MGM Grand Conference Center in Las Vegas, NV. Le'Andria Johnson apologizes to Marvin Winans and Fans. https://www.facebook.com/leandriajohnson/videos/1764241713625561/ Sacondrea Holden is a new Gospel artist that has a distinct charge to worship God and fulfill that mandate of Worship and Ministry placed on her life. The Louisiana native is currently the Praise and Worship Leader at Dominion and Power Family Life International. Confirmation of her appointment to minister in music came after a tragic accident in 2010 that spared her life. Surviving that experience with a now clear understanding of her destiny, Sacondrea began using her voice for ministry and has released a single “Here Is My Worship” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bg22BGM8-sM&feature=youtu.be TV One and the National Urban League (NUL) discussed the present and future conditions facing black America on Tuesday evening at a Town Hall held at The Howard Theatre in Washington, D.C. Moderated by Host and Senior Analyst for the Tom Joyner Morning Show Roland Martin, the discussion was framed around findings in the National Urban Leagues' seminal annual report, "The State of Black America." The 2-hour special will premiere on TV One Sunday, July 29 at 8 PM ET. Le'Andria Johnson with Love made an public apology for her actions that happened last week. She says, "I offended many people with my previous video post. That is undeniable, and I accept full responsibility for what I communicated out of frustration. After serious personal reflection, I recognized that through my being offended, I have caused offense. The fire that consumed so much emotion, time and energy, has illuminated a light that can no longer be hid; one of personal transparency and self reflection. Even a burned bridge illuminates light. Jason McGee + The Choir featuring Lena Byrd-Miles releases "Promises." A native of Bakersfield, CA, Jason McGee moved to Los Angeles in 1999 to go to the L.A.C.C. Theater Academy. He then went on to perform in television shows and films, acting and singing. Jason has shared the stage with Kanye West, Mariah Carey, Donnie McClurkin, Kirk Franklin just to name a few. In 2006 Jason formed the award winning P.S.A.L.M.S at the City of Refuge Church whereBishop Noel Jones is the pastor. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjxxt6-WSKs&feature=youtu.be Gospel singer Le’Andria Johnson recently dropped a couple of pearl-clutching videos explaining why her performance at the Essence Music Festival was canceled over the weekend. The singer was part of the tribute honoring the legendary Dottie Peoples but she was dropped like a bad habit after calling out Marvin Winans and calling out the church in live video rant. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wyi9MKlWXyw Erica discovers that her eldest child Krista struggles with self-esteem because of her dark skin tone. Erica introduces Krista to Kheris, a social media star who has her own fashion line dedicated to embracing her dark hued complexion. After Erica shares Krista's concerns with Warryn, he reveals a secret he's kept from Joi that certain record executives refused to work with her because they thought her skin was too dark. When Warryn shares the truth, she questions remaining in the music industry altogether. Meanwhile, Warryn asks Erica to co-preach with him at church but Erica doesn't have time to prepare. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRYD81TH0uk&feature=youtu.be "Whether you sing it, whether you preach it, whether you live it, the gospel must be spread," say pastor, Bishop Noel Jones, on the opening track of The City Of Refuge Sanctuary Choir's 1st album In years, "Run To The Altar" their sophomore live recording. The first song is the pulsating, 1960s R&B styled shimmy, "Praise is Power," which features the solo lead of Jason McGee. The album is mostly a mix of original Pentecostal-flavored songs such as "Flow," ";No Way" and "Holy Ghost; along with contemporary praise and worship proclamations "Wait on Him," ";Rain" and "Give You Praise." Praise and worship recording artist, JAVEN, has scored his first Top Ten song with his 7th solo album," Grace," which debuted at No. 8 on the Gospel Album Sales chart last week. The project also rolled in at No. 13 on the Top Gospel Albums multi-metric consumption chart which combines traditional album sales, track equivalent albums and streaming equivalent albums. The album combines harmonic, instrumental, and rhythmic aspects of Christian pop and classic gospel, as well as, new production techniques and rhythms from music of the African diaspora such as dancehall and hip hop. JAVEN hosts"NOW Living" on the TBN Salsa cable TV Network and ";Gospel Worship Experience" (Co-hosted with Tye Tribbett) which will premiere on TBN in the fall. http://gospel-spotlight.com/javen_intvw.htm Lexi dropped her new EP, Just Listen: The Remixes!!!! Check it out and don't forget to tag Lexi on socials so she can see what you are loving. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_cPI4NZJQo&utm_source=ExactTarget&utm_medium=email&utm_content=https%3A%2F%2FLexi.lnk.to%2FIllTakeLyricEm&utm_campaign=22194351&utm_umg_et=333601788 Keyondra Lockett continues to forge her path of independence, fueled by creativity and entrepreneurship. The gifted vocalist/songwriter and savvy businesswoman just inked a partnership between IndieBlue/Entertainment One Entertainment and her Bella Dawn Music record label. Through the partnership, her debut solo album will be released in September. Lockett has a new single at radio now. “Try.” As her album release date approaches, Lockett will make appearances in Atlanta, Dallas, Shreveport and New York this summer. She will also make appearances at the Essence Music Festival this weekend, including the SiriusXM live broadcast and the McDonald’s 365Black Awards. It appears that things are going very well for singer Michelle Williams. She and sports chaplain Chad Johnson got engaged and now she’s announcing that they have a reality TV show in the works. The show, a non-scripted series on OWN, will follow the pair’s relationship. Lucy's House Entertainment presents an All-Star celebrity line-up cast in The Unfaithful Stage-Play Tour. Unfaithful stage Tour features the legendary powerhouse vocalist Shirley Murdock, and in the leading male role, from Tyler Perry's "If Loving You is Wrong," Denzel Wells, also starring R&B singer and TV Reality Star (Love & Hip Hop) Teairra Mari and the legendary lead singer of the R&B group Silk, Gary "Lil G" Jenkins. Unfaithful is an emotional, twist-turning, stage play written and directed by playwright Kimberlyn M. Engram that reveals the truth about the seemingly perfect marriage of Kenny and Rochelle Jones. The couple appears to live an idyllic life. While Rochelle owns a thriving production company, Kenny is a First Sergeant in the United States Army. Within a year of being married, Kenny leaves for deployment leaving his wife to take full responsibility of his teenage daughter. While Kenny is deployed, Rochelle becomes suspicious of his behavior. Erica feels disconnected to Warryn following the Stellar Awards trip....can the two lovebirds get back to happy? Later she flies to Dallas to do her radio show, Get Up, Mornings! with Erica Campbell," where she goes a little too far when she teases co-star Griff about his love life on-air. Erica also finds herself questioning the higher-ups at the radio station about how they book their guests. After getting advice from MC Lyte, Joi decides to leave Warryn's label, My Block, regardless of the consequences. Warryn discovers his newest band to add to his label... his three kids! Erica isn't so sure, but Warryn is convinced that after they practice some more she'll come around. Goo finds out that there is a major clothing distributor looking to back her own personal clothing line. We're The Campbells...https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GsUty7w3oNM&feature=youtu.be Darius Brooks, the former music director of the late Rev. Milton Brunson's Grammy® Award winning Thompson Community Singers (also known as The Tommies), has just signed a deal with Tyscot Records to release, The Tommies Reunion (Tyscot), a live recording, on October 26th. "In the early years of my career I was a Tommies fan," says Tyscot CEO, Bryant Scott. "Our church choir literally sang a Tommies song every Sunday. It is exciting that Tyscot has been able to sign one of the premiere choirs from the `choir era." Tommies fans from back in the day, as well as new listeners, are sure to be delighted with the offering on The Tommies Reunion album." Brooks is equally excited to be affiliated with Tyscot." I love the label and its rich history," he says. "They understand the legacy of the Tommies because they have a similar one as a label and I know they will do great things with this project. In the pantheon of all the new voices being introduced in Gospel music, DENITA GIBBS will stand out as truly unique. A native of Birmingham, AL, Denita earned national recognition as a finalist in the Vickie Winans Rising Star Talent Search, sponsored by Chrysler and was a was a Top 5 Finalist for the ?2018 IMMERSE Conference Talent Search! Gospel Recording Artist Denita Gibbs' unique style and high definition of praise and worship ushers audiences directly into the presence of God. "Keep Holding On" is her new single. In celebration of the 15th annual McDonald’s® 365Black® Awards, the company will honor celebrities and everyday heroes who make positive contributions to the community. To date, this year’s roster of remarkable honorees includes popular Political Commentator Symone Sanders, renown actress/activist Sheryl Lee Ralph, Black Girls CODE CEO Kimberly Bryant and next generation McDonald’s Owner/Operator Monique Vann-Brown. Additionally, college junior Tishauna Wilson will be recognized alongside this lineup to receive the McDonald’s HBCU Forward $10,000 Scholarship, for her exceptional efforts to impact the community. Hosted for a second year by actress Essence Atkins, the awards ceremony will be held on Sunday, July 8, 2018, during the 24th annual ESSENCE Festival presented by Coca Cola® in New Orleans. Beloved songstress, Pastor Lisa Page Brooks is back with an up-tempo, contemporary Gospel single that is guaranteed to get listeners up and on their feet! “My Life” is Lisa’s personal testimony on how God has truly done a work in her life! Page Brooks drives home the importance of having a strong faith through the lyric “…how did I know that breakthrough was near, my faith encouraged me to remove all of my fear". “My Life”encourages listeners to trust their journey and believe that through faith, God will turn your situation around and do a great work in your life! Loretta Morman understands that men and women weren't designed the same by God, so she set out to educate women on how they can work toward understanding those human differences in order to have a healthy relationship. "Five Ways Men Want Women to Bloom" is Morman's story of her own personal flourishing based on 30 years of marriage. The book contains insight gleaned from interviews with men and women that helps readers understand their partners' desires and values, helping them pursue the loving relationship they want. Featuring the five 'blooms' of a rose; respect and love, communication style, romantic skills, inspiration and transformation, Morman explains how those traits are essential for women to contribute to a loving, healthy relationship. The book also features a personal blooming plan at the end of the book so that women can write down a vision for their marriage and put it into action. "Throughout my three decades of marriage, I've discovered what makes a marriage happy and healthy." The Gospel Music Workshop of America, Inc. is celebrating its 51st Anniversary. The Annual Convention is being held at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta Hotel in Atlanta, GA, July 16-20, 2018. It was announced today by the GMWA. GMWA is the largest gospel music convention across the United States and has a proven track record for producing major artists. GMWA has academic courses that teach the art of music including song writing techniques and more. Each year Bishop Albert Jamison and the Gospel Music Workshop of America strive to make the convention better than the year before. This year will be no different. Bishop Jamison and the GMWA Board Members are welcoming a great line up of notable speakers for the 51st Daily Bread Sessions including Karen Clark Sheard, Bishop William Murphy, Rev. Dr. James Forbes, Dr. Todd M. Hall, Bishop Paul Morton, Pastor Todd Hall, Sr., Dr. John Adolph and Dr. Jasper Williams, Jr. There will be musicals nightly. Jor'Dan Armstrong is back with new music. His last EP "Vibes" did well and the single "So much luv" garnered a lot of play on gospel radio. This go around instead of releasing a full album, Armstrong broke up the effort into three EP's so listeners can fully consume the project. The effort is entitled "BLSD" short for Blessed. The 3 part EP gives listeners a nostalgic look back at Armstrong's up bringing and the sounds and feelings he had growing up in Baton Rouge, LA aka Ghost town. Armstrong tags Bizzle, 1kPhew, Yanna Crawley, Lowell Pye and many more. The 3 EP's are produced by Jor'Dan Armstrong and a team of talented producers Jeshua "TedyP" Williams, Darius Scott, Tracksion and Juice Bangers for COBRA. "I named this effprt "BLSD" (Blessed) because if someone were to ask me to describe my life in one word it would be Blessed. Good times and bad times my answer still remains Blessed. BLSD is 3 parts, each one telling a story." dfree®, the global Financial Freedom Movement that has helped individuals and organizations pay down more than $1 million in debt, hosts its Homecoming Conference October 25th – 28th at First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens. On Friday, October 26th, the tone will be set with a dynamic Gospel concert featuring Grammy winner Bishop Hezekiah Walker and Gospel music darling Kierra Sheard. Reverend DeForest B. Soaries, Jr. says of the concert "we don't believe we can accomplish anything without worship. Worship is a spiritual requirement and it is the foundation of everything that we do." One of the most iconic Bible adventures is coming to life in movie theaters nationwide following its debut on the Sight & Sound stage. "Sight & Sound Theatres® Presents: MOSES" to entertain cinema audiences of all ages this fall, including a behind-the-scenes look at the amazing history of "Sight & Sound Theatres®." Fathom Events and "Sight & Sound Theatres® Presents: MOSES" in more than 800 select movie theaters on Thursday, September 13 and Saturday, September 15. Six-time GRAMMY® winning chart topper ISRAEL HOUGHTON kicks off “The Road to DeMaskUs Tour,” launching the twelve-city tour in Chicago, IL beginning Thursday September 27th, with tickets for select cities on sale now. Inviting fans along to explore a new journey on “The Road to DeMaskUs Tour,” in support of his upcoming solo album Road to DeMaskUs out September 21st, Houghton’s fall tour continues to eleven additional cities until October 13th, hitting Detroit, MI; New York, NY; Philadelphia, PA; Washington DC; Richmond, VA; Atlanta, GA; Orlando, FL; and more. Joe Jackson, the father and longtime manager of pop icons The Jackson 5, has died at 89. He passed away Wednesday in Los Angeles at around 3:30 a.m., TMZ reported. He was hospitalized earlier this month with terminal cancer. Today at 4pm Pacific, civil rights leader Najee Ali, CEO of Project Islamic Hope and a personal friend of Joseph Jackson and the Jackson family will lay a wreath of flowers in memory of Mr Jackson on the Jacksons’ star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and give comments on the life of Joseph Jackson. Without Mr.Jackson. There would be no Jackson 5. This July 4th, Independence Day celebration kicks off our country's 242nd birthday, as A CAPITOL FOURTH on PBS welcomes back Emmy Award-nominated actor and producer John Stamos to host the festivities. Broadcast live on PBS from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, this time-honored 38 year-tradition puts viewers front and center for America's biggest birthday party with the greatest display of fireworks anywhere in the nation lighting up the iconic D.C. skyline. The country's longest-running live national July 4 TV tradition will feature all-star musical performances by: Jimmy Buffett with the Broadway cast of the new musical ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE, The Beach Boys, Pentatonix, Andy Grammer, The Temptations, Luke Combs, Chita Rivera, Lauren Alaina, CeCe Winans and Joshua Bell. THE VOICESeason 14 finalist Kyla Jade will open the show with a special performance of the "National Anthem." This past weekend, Billboard No.1 independent recording artist, songwriter and producer Bryan Popin was honored for his chart-topping hit gospel song " I Got Out" at ASCAP's signature urban music event, the 31st Annual ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Awards in Los Angeles at the The Beverly Wilshire. "I Got Out""was the second single from Popin's 2017 released No.1 sophomore project. The A-list audience of celebrities included Jermaine Dupri, Migos, XSCAPE, 2 Chainz, Jason'Poo Bea' Boyd, Jeremih, Meek Mill, Mark 'Sounwave' Spears, Yo Gotti, Priscilla Renea, DeJ Loaf, Supa Dups, Amber 'Sevyn' Streeter, Christian 'Hitmaka' Ward, Brandy, Tamar Braxton, Serayah, Rotimi and Kevin Gates, among others. The public is invited to join Pastor Orr LIVE on Facebook, Thursday, June 28th at 7 p.m. CST, for a moment of Virtual Enrichment. https://www.facebook.com/brownbaptist1 This is an online biblical teaching experience that will enhance viewers knowledge of The Word and will give an ample dose of spiritual empowerment to fuel viewers through the rest of the week. Pastor Orr also invites the public to The Family of Faith Conference July 27-28. The Family and Faith Conference is a two-day event that offers everything from a Christian comedy show to a kids movie night and a wide-range of workshop options for each person in your family. Whether you’re married or single, a child or an adult, there will be something for everyone at this conference. The family conference will feature Donald Lawrence and guest speaker E. Dewey Smith from The Hope House of Atlanta. The Vision Community Foundation held it’s 7th Annual Black-Tie Galaat Atlanta City Hall, hosted by Bishop Oliver Clyde Allen III, Rashad Burgess, Lakara Foster. The exclusive gala honored individuals and organizations that have made outstanding achievements in the arts, media, ministry, community service and government arenas throughout their lifetime. The honorees recognized were: Mayor of Atlanta, Keisha Lance Bottoms, singer/actress Tisha Campbell-Martin (“Martin”), director/actress/philanthropist Terri J. Vaughn (“Steve Harvey Show”), actor TC Carson (“Greenleaf”), Lifetime's "Project Runway Allstars" winner, Anthony Williams, founder of The Black AIDS Institute, Phil Wilson, Radio Personality, Miss Sophia (“V103 Atlanta”) and chief executive of the LGBT and HIV/AIDS group TruEvolution, Gabriel Maldonado. VIP’s in attendance included Melissa “DJ M” Scott (“Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta”), Miss Lawrence (“STAR”), Gee Smalls (“The Gentlemen’s Foundation”), Erika Alexander (In Living Color"), Derek Jae ("Celebrity Hair Stylist"), Ricky Dillard ("Gospel Singer"), Dawn Halfkenny ("Saints & Sinners") and more. Erica performs at the Stellar Awards and heads home only to discover Warryn needs surgery. She is set to perform in North Carolina but after learning of Warryn's impending procedure she ponders canceling. At Warryn's request, Erica leaves him in the care of their three kids as he recovers so she can keep her commitment. But before she leaves, Misty informs Erica that Warryn has asked her to split her time as Erica's assistant to support his business too. This causes tempers to flair and Erica suggests an emergency "Love Check In" to get things back on track. Joi's frustration with Warryn grows as everything seems to stand in the way of her getting back into the studio to complete her latest project. And Goo begins fielding more job opportunities hot off the success of her Stellar Awards Glam Suite. About "We're The Campbells" The nine-episode docu-series gives viewers an intimate glimpse into the lives of The Campbell family. Her Superpower is Authenticity! The Fabulous Tammy Franklin, wife of gospel great Kirk Franklin, gets direct with Host & Superpower Life Coach Deya about the REAL work behind the FLY life! Get into this three-part series about life, love and marriage before and beyond the red carpets, awards and social media. Tammy and Kirk have been married for 22 years and when you see them together they always look fly, fabulous and full of love; but it hasn't always been that way, like anything successful, it takes work. In Episode 1 of "The Cost and Power of Love" with Tammy Franklin, she shares her personal journey to self-acceptance and why authenticity is her superpower. In Episode 2, Tammy discusses the ups and downs of marriage, why Christians need to embrace counseling and the real work that it takes to have a healthy and happy relationship; plus, bonus advice for boss chicks who want to get married. Episode 3 comes out next week, and we're tackling Transparency in Marriage. Brooklyn Tankard, affectionately known s “Queen Brooklyn,” last ppeared as the larger-than-life redhead on Bravo’s record-breaking reality Broshow, “Thicker than Water” in 2016. She has toured the world as an empowerment speaker and event host, and spent time raising her teenage daughter. However, during that span she also faced bouts with depression, before ultimately finding peace and letting it all out in the studio. The result is amazing new music and her latest single, “Controlla,” released on June 20th,; her 30th birthday. “Controlla,” a provocative song about being in bondage, is the first installment of a three-song series that walks listeners through Tankard’s 30-year journey to self-discovery and self-love. It is also intended to empower struggling women to break free from the mental, emotional and physical shackles that often hinder them from achieving their goals and life’s purpose. Over the past 10 years an assembly of young, vibrant voices from Memphis, TN have been making their imprint in Gospel music. With dynamic showmanship, ardent praise and dazzling vocal abilities, Vincent Tharpe and Kenosis (VTK) has marked their position as a group with mass appeal and permanency in music ministry and music entertainment. With hard work to continue polishing their talent and maturing growth in their faith and servitude to Christ, VTK is making big announcements - they are releasing a sophomore album, gearing up for a summer tour which has generated tremendous excitement for their ministry and global impact, and have a new management partnership. VTK announces their forthcoming sophomore release SUPER EXCITED. Holding true to VTK’s signature energetic performances and outrageous vocal skills,SUPER EXCITED will showcase even more of the group’s electrifying delivery and a matured level of songwriting. William McMillan drops debut single "Best Thing." This is a remake of James Cleveland's classic song. “Jesus Is The Best Thing”. His album drops 7.20, He has served as music director for Travis Greene, William McDowell and has written and played for Jason Nelson, Jonathan Nelson,William McDowell. It’s been said, “once a singer, always a singer”. That expression could easily fit Kenny Vines. Years ago in the Washington, DC area, he was one of the most popular Gospel vocalists in the area. After a multi-year hiatus, Vines returns to the Gospel music industry showcasing two blessed tracks for those in DC and beyond. A singer, songwriter and musician, Vines is known for providing spirited performances, superior musicianship and exceptional arrangements. His new cut, “Hallelujah”, is an uplifting praise song and is currently available on iTunes, Amazon, Google Play and other digital music outlets. Verity Records has crafted a new collection to treasure, with The Best of Fred Hammond, a 12-song release celebrating the prolific catalog of the GRAMMY®-winning gospel icon. Featuring three new songs as well as beloved classics, savor the pioneering music of Hammond on this compilation, who has remained a trailblazing force inspiring audiences worldwide and influencing countless artists with his live performances, exceptional voice, instrumental arrangements, songwriting, and producing talents for over three decades. The Best of Fred Hammond spotlights his biggest hits and enduring legacy driving the sounds of contemporary gospel and worship, filled with timeless favorites like “No Weapon,” “”We’re Blessed,” “Jesus Be a Fence Around Me,” You Are the Living Word,” “Glory To Glory To Glory,” and the brand-new tracks “I’m Grateful,” “Saturate Us,” and “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.” Hear Fred Hammond In His Own Words...http://gospel-spotlight.com/fred_hammond. Leon Timbo presents Northern Lights United. A group of Dynamic praise & worships leaders have come together to create a powerhouse group. Their debut EP “Invitation to Worship” drops tomorrow! “Get The Glory” is the lead single form the project. The single was co-written with revered producer/writer/arranger Percy Bady. "You Should Have Been There", is the hot new single by the quartet powerhouse, The Virginia Aires. This traditional song has the familiar Quartet gospel bounce. The songwriter tells the story of how God first came into his life, reminding us all, of the powerful experience of coming into relationship with Christ. The Virginia Aires are trailblazing the industry keeping the classic sound of quartet music alive. Prepping for the release of his brand new CD" Open Your Mouth And Say Something" next week, Grammy and Stellar Award nominee Brent Jones headlines a star-studded lineup at Ebenezer AME Church Sat, June 24th for the 35th Pastoral Anniversary of Rev. Dr. Grainger and Rev. Dr. Jo Ann Browning. Ricky Dillard, Brent Jones, Tye Tribbett. Byron Cage, Earnest Pugh and more are just a few of the many gospel stars who will be on hand. "Open Your Mouth And Say Something", the highly anticipated follow-up to his smash hits "He Rose," "Don't Wait Till Midnight" and "Goodtime."Brent Jones is a singer/songwriter extraordinaire who';s groundbreaking work with his urban group TP Mobb set the stage for Kirk Franklin and urban contemporary gospel. Rising star, Christina Bell (formerly of group, Ziel) has signed with legendary record label Malaco Records for her debut solo album, it was announced today. Christina Bell, a native of Shreveport, Louisiana, is a standout talent, whose powerful vocals have captured the attention of heavyweights in the industry. Recently signed to Malaco Records (home of artists like Mississippi Mass Choir, Tina Campbell, Bebe Winans, Dorinda Clark-Cole and more), Bell is already hard at work on her first project. Her debut album will be produced by D. Jamel Kimbrough (Todd Dulaney, Tasha Page-Lockhart) and is slated for release later this year. News from out of nowhere that’s making a lot of folks do a double take. Gospel star Kirk Franklin has let the world know that his sister just got sentenced to 30 years in prison in Texas. If you’re wondering just what it was that landed the Grammy winner’s sister behind bars, he isn’t saying. However, he has been open about his sister’s drug addiction in the past via his Patheos blog “My sister was just sentenced to 30 years in prison,” he wrote on Instagram. “I now feel the weight of wondering if I could have done more.” Urban One announces their new'REPRESENT.' campaign, a company-wide quarterly initiative that offers opportunities for Urban One's Divisions and radio markets to work collectively in support of various causes in the markets and communities they serve. The first campaign is 'REPRESENT. Men's Health' and will launch on Sunday, June 17 through July 24. "We're the Campbells" TV One's new docu-series, premiering on Tuesday, June 19, will provide further support for the campaign. The fourth episode, designated as the 'REPRESENT' episode airs on Tuesday, July 10, and highlights this initiative as Erica Campbell discusses the campaign on-air during her daily radio show. Additionally, on Tuesday, July 24, the "Repping for Men's Health" episode will feature Warryn Campbell's workout session and hear him speak about the various tenants of the 'REPRESENT. Men's Health' campaign and why he is so passionate about it on a personal level. Accomplished international speaker, prolific author and Billboard #1 independent recording artist Jekalyn Carr continues to inspire people as she travel across the world sharing the message of Christ through song with her #1 single"You Will Win" and preaching or providing inspiration into the lives of people through her first published book "You Will Win!: Inspirational Strategies to Help You Overcome." Returning from the British Virgin Islands, inspiring and ministering to the people that was affected by the Hurricane. Carr is preparing to minister in South Africa this week at the PRETORIA Showgrounds. ECG Ministries will be hosting the major event for their youth from all over the country. She is scheduled to be in Montreal Canada, Freeport Bahamas, Toronto Canada and Alberta Canada in the coming weeks as well. Tasha Cobbs Leonard's career began with an unplanned opportunity. Cobbs who was part of a youth choir in her hometown Jesup, Georgia was suddenly thrust into the spotlight when the lead vocalist was unable to make a performance. The group decided Cobbs who was just 15 at the time, would fill in. "I got up that night and I sang "Now Behold the Lamb" and when I opened my eyes people were crying", she said. Everyone in the room knew Cobbs had a special gift and from that moment on she would realize it too. She would take on a position as worship leader of Jesup New Life Ministries, a church founded by her father Bishop Fritz Cobbs, who passed away three years ago. During her time of grief, Cobbs said she grew spiritually. "My heart was broken and a lot times we withdraw. We just want to be alone. The Lord said to me, the peace that you need it's in my presence." Now as a gospel recording artist whose album "Grace," has top the charts the sky is the limit. Chart-topper and former “The Voice” finalist Koryn Hawthorne, rolls out a vital force of musical energy to lift up and fuel fans on her upcoming debut album Unstoppable, out July 13th. Available for pre-order today, Hawthorne reveals the track list for her 10-song album, with the #1 hit single “Won’t He Do It” (Remix), “Warriors,” and“Reasons” (feat. J. Monty), available instantly upon pre-order. Koryn Hawthorne’s powerful voice and dynamic message on “Won’t He Do It” remains a captivating anthem among listeners – as the hit single continues to set the charts ablaze with four #1’s on the latest Gospel charts this week. Watch Ricky Smiley Sunday June 17.2018, Fathers Day on. Rickey Smiley chats with Lynn Smith on HLN Weekend Express on behalf of his Watch Ricky Smiley Sunday June 17.2018, Fathers Day on. Rickey Smiley chats with Lynn Smith on HLN Weekend Express on behalf of his debut memoir "Stand By Your Truth: And Then Run For Your Life." New Haven Records recently announced the release of the Chicago Mass Choir’s latest single and artist video, “Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand,” from, "We Give You Praise."The album, which helped the Chicago Mass Choir earn a 2017 Stellar Award. Gospel Rapper Da Gospel Way is a Christian Hip Hop artist that is on his way to becoming one of today’s most provocative rappers. Spitting rhymes chock full of scripture, D.G.W. is on a mission to transform the world one soul at a time. “A Reason To Cry”: https://youtu.be/tcRau4iBbGs *In 2012, inspirational singer Anthony Evans hit the mainstream when he appeared on the second season of the “The Voice” on Team Aguilera. As the son of a pastor and a recording artist, the show solidified his commitment to his faith, craft, and opened new doors for his career. However, as his star shined brighter over the years with his music successfully hitting both Gospel and Christian music charts, darkness started to take control and he had to find his way back. Personally, Evans went through self-doubt and depression and with the help of his faith, along with counseling and medication, he was able to see his way through. He shares his experience in his upcoming book, “Unexpected Places.” TV One hosted a red-carpet premiere for their brand new docu-series “We’re The Campbells,” starring gospel music superstarErica Campbell and mega producer Warryn Campbell. The premiere event was held at the Harmony Gold Theater in Los Angeles, CA. Cast members in attendance included Erica and Warryn’s children Krista, Wozy and Zaya, GooGoo Atkins, JoiStarr (Warryn’s sister), Sandra Campbell (Warry’s mother), Ms. Honey Atkins (Erica’s mother), Alana Jamison (Erica’s sister), Shanta Atkins (Erica’s sister) and Desmond Jamison (brother-in law). VIP’s in attendance at the premiere included: Shanice Wilson, Tiffany Black (“When Love Kills”), Kelly Perine (“One On One”), Jason McGee (My Block recording artist), J-Boog (“B2K”), AD Dolphin (Dherbs.com), B. Slade, Dorion Renaud (“In The Cut”), Dorien Wilson (“In The Cut”) and more. JoyFest at Carowinds has been delivering a Gospel celebration every spring for 25 years with some of the best names in the industry. More than 9,500 people attended the 25th anniversary event. Celebrating its silver anniversary on May 26, 2018, JoyFest-NC hosted award-winning Gospel greats - Fred Hammond, Tye Tribbett, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Anthony Brown & Group Therapy and break-out sibling group -The Walls Group. Gospel sensation VaShawn Mitchell and 6-year-old worship leader Caleb Seranno made guest appearances as well, while comedianBone Hampton carried on his tradition by serving as emcee for the day. JoyFest – NC is one of two gospel music celebrations in the Southeast that Premier Festivals promotes. The sister festival - JoyFest – VA is coming to Kings Dominion on July 14 in Doswell, VA with the same headliners! Lead Singer and Songwriter Algeron Wright, who’s known for successful songs “Ready to Serve and High and Lifted Up”, and a very prominent vocalist with The Gospel Music Workshop Of America is BACK! New band. New look. New singers. New sound. Get ready for "From Our Hearts," the first title released from the forthcoming EP from Algeron Wright & Triumphant Praise, produced by Roosevelt Mclamore, III, Featuring the TPII band, singers and other special guests. Triumphant Praise hails from South Carolina. With a captivating voice, a minister's heart and an ability to translate a single lyric into a powerful, worship-inducing refrain, David McClure is a singer poised to become a household name in Gospel music. The New Haven, Connecticut native is best known for his work with JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise; it is his voice that buoys the hit song "Incredible God" and turns the vamp into a churchy reprise. He also sings the lead on the group's "Powerful God" and "Now." Recently following the release of his first single "It's Yours," McClure released his Official Music Video! https://www.youtube.com/embed/aMnyogjpuPA?version=3&rel=1&fs=1&autohide=2&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&wmode=transparent Over the last six years, Charles Jenkins and Fellowship Chicago have become one of the most exciting and dependable hitmakers on the gospel music scene with a string of No. 1 gospel radio smashes such as "Awesome,", "War" and"Grace."Now, they are back with the second single, "Can't Turn Back," from their forthcoming third album, "Keep the Faith." The song is a tribute to the foundation of gospel and soul music,"Jenkins says. "You've gotta feel gospel, and I hope people feel this one like I feel it although it's up-tempo. It's a gritty, gutsy anthem with a dose of Cab Calloway, a dose of Ray Charles, and a whole lot of Sunday morning church music. GRAMMY® and Stellar Award-winning artist Le’Andriareleases a new visual for her GRAMMY®-nominated hit song “Better Days,” providing fans a potent reminder of finding comfort and strength in faith. No matter what tough times, or hurt that we all may experience in the world, the Derek Blanks-directed visual highlights Le’Andria’s luminous fierce vocals on “Better Days,” shining a path on the message that we’re never facing these challenges alone, better days are coming. Check out Le’Andria’s “Better Days”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FYcD7QPlPo4 Fred Jerkins is at it again, Fred Jerkins featuring Last Call drops new single Victory. Terrence Richburg the Gospel jazz musician, producer. and Gospel jazz artist, has performed R&R with saxophonist Howard E. Riley, Jr.) and The Terrence Richburg Experience. As a multi-instrumentalist, musical director and producer, he’s worked with Richard Smallwood & Vision, Maurette Brown Clark, Vanessa R. Williams, Tramaine Hawkins, Shirley Caesar, Yolanda Adams, Ben Tankard, Gerald Albright, Jennifer Holliday, The Winans, and late gospel icons Walter Hawkins and Rev. James Cleveland. A background vocalist, engineer, arranger, songwriter, minister of music and record label owner as well. Now Richburg is stepping out from behind the scenes to center stage with an incredible set of new releases: three albums RichSpirit One, Beyond Measure, Portrait of Adoration and his sophomore writing, Soul of A Poet’s Heart. All four will release on June 29, 2018 Rejoice! Musical Soul Food Network (MSF), North America’s premier syndicated radio network, kicks off the 3rd annual Musical Soul Food Festival (MSF Fest) on Saturday, June 23, 2018 in Hampton Roads. This year’s MSF Fest welcomes 12-time GRAMMY® Award winner, Cece Winans, the 2018 GRAMMY® Award nominated group, The Billboard Music Award and Stellar Gospel Music Award winning ensemble JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise and Todd Dulaney with the #1 song“Your Great Name. The line-up also features Melvin Williams, Doc McKenzie & the Hi-Lites, Koryn Hawthorn, Jermaine Dolly, Virginia Aires, Isabel Davis, Kelontae Gavin, Earl Bynum, GI, Uncle Reece and others. JUST LISTEN! Lexi’s first album in 6 years is streaming on all digital platforms, and available for purchase in stores and online today. The highly anticipated project from multi-hyphenate singer-star has been gaining momentum since the release of her new single, “In The Room,” in March. I AM Music Company releases a new romantic marriage track. “Thank God 4 U” is the latest single from Derrick ‘Doc’ Pearson’s critically acclaimed marriage music project ‘I Still Do: Songs For A Biblical Marriage’. This romantic love song is an expression of the feelings a husband has for his wife, making it known how thankful he is for the woman God has blessed him with. The family and friends of Tyscot Records President, Bryant Scott, are throwing a “Favor at 50” birthday celebration concert in his honor Friday, June 22, 2018 at the Total Praise & Worship Center, Indianapolis, IN. Some of Tyscot’s longtime recording alumni such as Deitrick Haddon and Vashawn Mitchell will headline the event. Tyscot’s co-founder, Bishop Leonard Scott, will perform, as well as Ruth La'Ontra. Clarence Fountain, one of the original members of the iconic 5 time Grammy winning Gospel group the Five Blind Boys Of Alabama made his transition Sunday, June 3. Fountain was 88. The Blind Boys were permanent fixtures on stages and in concert halls across the country during the Golden age of Gospel music when quartets such as the Swan Silvertones, Dixie Hummingbirds and others dominated the genre. The group experienced a resurgence in the 80s when they joined the touring company of the Gospel at Colonus. The group was nominated for 10 Grammy Awards, winning their first in 2001 for the album Spirit of the Century. Fred Hammond featured Fountain on his 1991 solo album debut "I Am Persuaded." With over 50 albums under her belt Evangelist Dorothy Norwood continues to deliver music to inspire, uplift and encourage the Body of Christ. The “World’s Greatest Storyteller” releases new music entitled, “Breathe on Me” featuring Bishop Rance Allen, Evangelist Beverly Crawford, Bishop James H. Morton and Kareem Jackson. Weather the Storm, dedicated to those affected by Hurricane Harvey is the second single being released. Produced by Dorothy Norwood and Cedric Thompson on her Dorothy Norwood Music Group imprint, the new disc was recorded “LIVE” at Mt. Ennon Baptist Church in Clinton, MD. The stage was set for an awesome move of God! Norwood is currently in the studio finishing up with post production on her 53rd solo album entitled “The Journey Continues” soon to be released. Hear Dorothy Norwood In Her Own Words...http://gospel-spotlight.com/dorothy_norwood_intvw.htm GRAMMY® Award nominated recording artist Kurt Carr (best known for hit songs such as "In the Sanctuary", "I Almost Let Go", and "For Every Mountain"), is set to record his 9th album, "Bless Somebody Else," live on Sunday, June 17th at Fountain of Praise Church in Houston, TX. The recording will be in tribute to Father's Day, celebrating Fathers and giving back to the community. June is Black Music Month and Grammy nominee, multiple Award winner, VaShawn Mitchell to offer an exclusive opportunity for fans to meet him, and purchase a signed copy of his current EP Cross Music, at Walmart stores throughout June. Mitchell will appear at Walmart: Burlington, NJ (Philadelphia) - Saturday, June 16 - 2:00pm Clinton, MD (Washington DC) - Sunday, June 17 at 2:00pm Hammond, IN (Chicago) - Saturday, June 23 at 2:00pm Hear VaShawn Mitchell In His Own Words...http://gospel-spotlight.com/vashawn_mitchell_intvw.htm Regina Belle was a college kid out of New Jersey when she burst on the R&B scene as a vocalist with the Manhattans on the hit "Where Did We Go Wrong." She was eventually signed by Columbia Records and skyrocketed to fame with number one singles, including "Make It Like It Was" and "Baby Come to Me." She crossed over to a mainstream audience with the Grammy Award-winning mega-hit, "A Whole New World," a duet with Peabo Bryson for the Disney film "Aladdin." Blessed with a soulful, pitch-perfect voice, she lived near the top of the charts for ten years until she was abruptly dropped by her label. Misfortune continued when she was diagnosed with a life-threatening brain tumor. How she bounced back with a renewed faith to record her first gospel album, is the inspiring story of a strong woman who overcame professional disappointment and personal tragedy to spread a message of love, family and faith. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZqw-KDCzRM&feature=youtu.be TV One is set to premiere its latest original docu-series, WE'RE THE CAMPBELLS on Tuesday, June 19 at 8 p.m. ET/7C. The nine episode docu-series will give viewers an intimate glimpse into the lives of Gospel entertainment power couple Warryn and Erica Campbell, as they tackle the everyday struggles that come with balancing family and work, nurturing their marriage, building their individual careers, and fostering their faith; all while raising their three children Warryn, Zaya and teenager Krista. https://youtu.be/P-9EeOAazXM Verity Records launched a new campaign,"WeAreVerity." The initiative, which coincides with Black Music Month (June), was created to celebrate Verity Records’ rich legacy and diverse catalog, as well as highlight gospel’s place as a cornerstone of Rock & Roll and pop music. Founded in 1994, Verity Records is home to one of the most robust catalogs in gospel, including releases from iconic artists such as Yolanda Adams, Helen Baylor, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Twinkie Clark, Daryl Coley, Fred Hammond, John P. Kee, Donnie McClurkin, Marvin Sapp, Richard Smallwood and Hezekiah Walker. Throughout the month of June,"WeAreVerity" will highlight these artists and showcase a different Verity artist (past or present) each day by sharing their songs, videos and fun facts about them via social media.. GRAMMY® Award-winning legendary recording artist, songwriter, and producer Donald Lawrence continues to be a pioneering force in Gospel, as the chart-topping choirmaster reunites with The Tri-City Singers to launch the new single, “Goshen 432 hz.” Accompanied by a Lyric Video available now on all digital music platforms, and freshly delivered to Gospel radio nationwide, “Goshen 432 hz” kicks off a landmark anniversary reunion of Lawrence with the original Tri-City Singers, commemorating the 25 years since the 1993 release of the seminal debut album, A Songwriter’s Point of View. The first single from Lawrence and The Tri-City Singers’ upcoming 25th anniversary project, “Goshen 432 hz” is a powerful call of protection, love, peace, and safety all over the world – with the voices of Lawrence and the Carolina-based singers, and featured soloist Sheri Jones-Moffett on the song. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-2UJNTkBhY TaMyya J, the Willingboro, NJ native was singing before she could speak and singing in church truly allowed her to showcase her voice. At the age of 14 she joined the group Praise who won 1st place in McDonald’s Gospelfest’s Youth Division and performed at Madison Square Garden in New York City. She drops a new single "Laying Them Down." Chart-topper Koryn Hawthorne unveiled the cover for Unstoppable on her social platforms, giving fans an early peek of her upcoming debut album in the cover reveal montage. Featuring the exuberant #1 hit anthem “Won’t He Do It” as the lead single – which has topped multiple gospel digital and airplay charts – Koryn was on Instagram (@korynhawthorne), and shared insights about her Unstoppable album on Instagram Live, Friday June 1st at 7 pm EST. After a year-long hiatus, Casey J returns with an incredible worship project entitled 'The Gathering' which will release in the fall of 2018. In advance of the project, Casey is releasing the album's initial radio single, "If God", which speaks to the often times overwhelming circumstances of violence and sickness that we face in today's world and it beautifully answers the question with Romans 8:31 (What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?). WORLD PREMIERE OF A GREAT WORK ON BET GOSPEL & BET HER TOMORROW FRIDAY JUNE 1. BET Gospel Every Hour from 6:00am - 10:00am BET Her Starting at 6:00am Good, Good Father the latest from Tim Bowman. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBrs9xvvn04&feature=youtu.be The reviews are in and Anthony Evans performance as 'the Beast' in the star-studded production of "Beauty and the Beast" at the Hollywood Bowl was a hit. Starring along side Hollywood luminaries Kelsey Grammer, Jane Krakowski, Taye Diggs, Rebel Wilson and Zooey Deschanel, Evans performance was emerged as the best of the night. Evans' performance was widely praised by fans, and critics alike. Clifton Ross III for first time will be performing with the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) and it will be his first time taking the stage with seven time Grammy Award winning, will.i.am, best known for being a member of the Black Eyed Peas. Mother Peggy Moales has passes away. Over the past few days, Moales son, Elder Kenneth Moales Jr. and his sister Kenya Moales Byrd, were admonishing the body of Christ to keep their mother in prayer, even conducting prayer calls and vigils. In the end, Lady Moales . Jason Nelson’s new album The Answer debuting at #1 on the Nielsen Gospel Total Consumption Chart and #1 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums Chart – as well as Koryn Hawthorne’s hit single “Won’t He Do It” at #1 on the MediaBase Gospel Chart, and #1 on the Nielsen BDS Gospel National Airplay Chart for 6 weeks overall. Released May 18th, The Answer marks Stellar Award-winning artist, songwriter and producer Jason Nelson’s fifth solo album, and his second consecutive #1 debut on the Top Gospel Albums Chart. With her spirited charm and prodigious vocals, Koryn Hawthorne has captured attention with her catchy single “Won’t He Do It” which is the lead single on her forthcoming debut album UNSTOPPABLE, releasing everywhere on July 13th. A talented singer and songwriter, Christopher Simms has a passion for worship. His voice has been heard backing fellow Gospel artist B. Renee, Elder Matthew Greave, Praise Xpress and as a soloist around his hometown of the Bronx, NY. A worship leader at Morning Star Church located in Harlem, NY, he’s been lifting his voice and sharing his songs inspiring believers for years. Now, the award-winning psalmist has released a brand new recording “Back To You”. The single, from the forthcoming effort, Find, Follow, Fulfill, is available on iTunes, Amazon, CD Baby and other digital retail music outlets. The youngest of nine children and, no stranger to the world of the music, Shanta is the younger sister to the Grammy Award winning Gospel duo "Mary Mary". Shanta has performed on the Soul Train Awards, BET Awards, Jay Leno Show, Arsenio Hall Show and for Oprah Winfrey. She can be heard on projects with Kanye West, Mary Mary, Jason Champion, Al Green and Dorinda Clark-Cole. She has sung for some of the greatest like Natalie Cole, U2, Yolanda Adams and BeBe Winans. Shanta Atkins has stepped out from behind the shadows to pen and produce the single “God Sees You” which speaks to the hearts of those battling suicide & depression. This song is a fresh sound and completely acapella Grammy, Stellar and Dove Award Winning Songwriter David Frazier ( I Need You To Survive, Second Chance, Power Belongs to God, How Much We Can Bear , Favor) has partnered with Pastor Carlos Kelly & The Beulahland Bible Church in Macon, Georgia to drop fresh and new music for Sunday morning. Pastor Carlos Kelly presents BBC Worship 2018 produced and written by David Frazier releases the first single that is a hand clapping , foot stomping Sunday morning classic that church choirs and community choirs will be singing all over the world. The New CD drops June 3rd at Beulahland and June 8th digitally. Bishop Oliver Clyde Allen, III thought-leader and Amazon.com best-selling author of Master Your Emotions, is assembling national, global leaders and entrepreneurs for the 2018 iElevate Conference held June 19th-24th at The Vision Cathedral of Atlanta, where he serves as senior pastor. ESSENCE Festival celebrates the 10th anniversary of the All-Star Gospel Tribute with a star-studded afternoon of music and inspiration honoring Gospel music legend, Dottie Peoples. The All-Star Gospel Tribute will close out the 3-day Conference & Expos festivities on Sunday, July 8. Smokie Norful, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Marvin Sapp, Johnny Gill and more.will perform. Bishop Lester Love will open the day with our inspirational “Power Hour,” Zach Mills began the first leg of a multi-city book tour during Memorial Day weekend promoting a biography he has penned on international Gospel recording artist, pastor, preacher and Chicago based civil rights icon Rev. Clay Evans. The biography is entitled, The Last Blues Preacher: Rev. Clay Evans, Black Lives, and the Faith that Woke the Nation. The book details Reverend Evans’ ..early days growing up in the south and experiencing racism first hand, his family's migration to Chicago and his early days in the ministry. Grammy, Stellar and Dove Award Winning Songwriter David Frazier ( I Need You To Survive, Second Chance, Power Belongs to God, How Much We Can Bear , Favor) has partnered with Pastor Carlos Kelly & The Beulahland Bible Church in Macon, Georgia to bring to the Gospel community fresh and new music for Sunday morning with: Pastor Carlos Kelly presents BBC Worship 2018 (Recorded Live at Beulahland, Macon Georgia) produced and written by David Frazier. This 1st Single is a hand clapping , foot stomping Sunday morning classic that church choirs and community choirs will be singing all over the world. The New CD drops June 3rd at Beulahland and June 8th digitally in the USA around the world. Award-winning pianist, producer and composer, Jamar Jones delivers a conceptual work of art with his debut album, Fatherless Child. The album is available for pre-order today and will be released on July 13th by GPE Records, music legend Patti LaBelle’s imprint. The 16-track collection offers a multifaceted account of Jones’ personal relationship with his piano, which was forged at the early age of four following the passing of his father. The album features other standout tracks such as “Blackbird” with Vivian Green and “Promise” featuring Patti LaBelle. Gospel Music legend Melvin Williams, a member of the award-winning Williams Brothers, has received a 2018 Southeast EMMY Award nomination for Special Event Coverage of his new documentary, “Melvin Williams: Down Home Gospel.” The film, which examines Williams’ journey from his roots in Smithdale, Mississippi, to a stellar, five-decade career in music and entertainment, will premiere nationally on PBS during Gospel Heritage Month in September. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7jkm7eErZc Cypress tragedies come full circle as Lady Ella embraces Rex and the dark side. Lady Byrd gets a taste of her own medicine. Saints & Sinners” on Bounce (directed by Radio Personality Russ Parr) https://youtu.be/-kzvqgHC9Us Sister duo Genessis & Nikki combine Latin, gospel and soul musical influences as a bridge to connect different genres in their new single "Love Somebody Today". "Love Somebody Today" is from their debut self titled album GENESSIS & NIKKI. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NDbf9kyEuYg&feature=youtu.be JAVEN WILL RELEASE FIRST ALBUM IN 5 YEARS, “GRACE,” ON 6/22. The Twelve-Track Set Features Grammy® winner Tye Tribbett, Tim Bowman Jr., The Voice’s Johnny Rez and More! Hear Javen IN His Own Words...http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/javen_intvw.htm The wins keep coming for gospel superstar J.J. Hairston & Youthful Praise. Hairston and his group received their first Billboard Music Awardon Sunday for Top Gospel Song, "You Deserve It." The song and the similarly titled album is the first project on Hairston's new imprint, JamesTown Music. This week Hairston was also named a winner of the 2018 ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Award for "You Deserve It." The award ceremony will be held on Thursday, June 21st at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills. Topping off all of this, Hairston has just been elected as Governor to the Washington, D.C. Chapter Board of the Recording Academy. As the Governor of the chapter, his primary responsibilities include serving as an advisor to help chart the course for his Chapter's music community along with other Governors. G.I. is coming off the success of their breakout hit single “Pray and Don’t Worry.” The award-winning trio is back with another summer smash hit single, “I’m Ready!” Hear G.I In Their Own Words...http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/GI.htm Casey J returns with sophomore effort. This album will be one to watch for, "The Gathering." Hear Casey J In Her Own Words...http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/caseyj_intvw.htm Former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama have set a deal to create new programming with Netflix, the streaming service announced Monday. Through the multi-year agreement, the Obamas will produce a diverse mix of content, including the potential for scripted series, unscripted series, docu-series, documentaries and features, under their newly-established Higher Ground Productions banner. “One of the simple joys of our time in public service was getting to meet so many fascinating people from all walks of life, and to help them share their experiences with a wider audience,” said President Obama. “That’s why Michelle and I are so excited to partner with Netflix – we hope to cultivate and curate the talented, inspiring, creative voices who are able to promote greater empathy and understanding between peoples, and help them share their stories with the entire world.” Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Tamela Mann will headline the 150th Anniversary Celebration of the California Conference of the Western Episcopal District. The sesquicentennial anniversary marks 150 years of AME Zion’s spiritual leadership and ministry in the greater California region. The grand celebrationgoes down Saturday, June 9 at Beebe Memorial Cathedral Oakland, CA. Vocalist Robert E. Person has become one of Jazz and Gospel music's most quintessential singers. His extraordinary vocal control, his definitive and polished stage presence and his gorgeous tenor tone has given the Washington, DC native an undeniable reputable artistic presence in music and performing arts. After releasing an impressive and award winning catalog of indie Gospel albums, Robert is set to deliver his first Jazz album. Robert artistically selected to record a live studio Jazz album of classics and favorites and is set to release his CLASSIC COVERS EP June 1. Multi-award winner Tasha Cobbs Leonard added two more honors to her already-impressive list last night at the 2018 Billboard Music Awards. The acclaimed Motown Gospel powerhouse nabbed the title of Top Gospel Artist and Top Gospel Album (for Heart. Passion. Pursuit.) at the star-studded awards show in Las Vegas, NV. Last week, Tasha Cobbs Leonard also earned her fifth BET Award nomination in the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational category. The winners will be announced at the 2018 BET Awards in Los Angeles, CA on June 24, 2018. The Instagram accounts of Stellar Gospel Music Award winning recording artists Bri (Briana Babineaux) and Ahjah Walls of The Walls Group have been hacked by someone behind a scam promising to get those accounts verified with the blue checkmark. Bri’s simply_bebe- account had over 545,000 followers and she received what appeared to be a legitimate Instagram email suggesting that she was eligible to have her page verified. Bri signed in with her username and password. “It wasn’t even a full minute and then, he took over my account and locked me out of it,” she says. I Ahjah Walls' account, she received a blue check mark error email and was asked to sign-in to her account to re-confirm it. When she did, her account was immediately taken over. Kim Stratton the Chicago-based celebrity chef and owner of Kim Stratton’s Kitchen catering service and restaurant has returned to an early love, gospel music, her first recording in six years. The heart and soulful new offering, “Unto the Lamb," is an anthem-styled praise and worship ballad that showcases Stratton’s thunderous vocal prowess and technique. RCA Inspiration is celebrating three nominations received for BET Awards 18. BET announced this year’s nominees in a live ceremony in New York City on May 15th and Kirk Franklin, Marvin Sapp and Snoop Dogg received nods in the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel / Inspirational Award category. TV One is set to premiere its latest original docu-series, WE’RE THE CAMPBELLS on Tuesday, June 19 at 8 p.m. ET/7C. The nine episode docu-series will give viewers an intimate glimpse into the lives of Gospel entertainment power couple Warryn and Erica Campbell, as they tackle the everyday struggles that come with balancing family and work, nurturing their marriage, building their individual careers, and fostering their faith: all while raising three children Warryn, Zaya and Krista. McDonald’s USA returns with the 12th annual Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour. Back with an award-winning line-up featuring Deitrick Haddon, Ricky Dillard, J.J. Hairston, Le'Andria Johnson, Todd Delaney and Canton Jones.The free concert tour kicks-off May 17 and runs until October 22. New artist Phil Thompson’s solo album "My Worship," debuts at #1 on Billboard Top Gospel Albums Sales Chart and #2 on Billboard Top Gospel Albums Consumption Chart. (which includes digital and streaming) Two entrepreneurs, Roderick Jemison and Sherri Y. Johnson, from two different parts of the region are joining forces to help independent music artists and musicians reach higher heights professionally. Effective immediately, Jemison & Associates based in Nashville, Tennessee and Supreme Gospel Entertainment based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania will work cohesively together to empower and equip artists with the necessary tools needed to begin and sustain their journey of sharing the Good News through song to a broader demographic. "I GOT YOU", is the hot new single by the incomparable, anointed, vocal powerhouse, RUTH LA'ONTRA. H er 1st single "Kingdom"was a hit and the second single, does not disappoint. Written & produced by Gospel Superstar Anthony Brown, this follow-up, summer hit, is a Gospel radio gem. Musically this song is a whimsical, fun, throwback to the "GoGo Surf" sound of the '60's. There is a bounce in this song that will have you bobbing your head continuously and put a smile on your face and in your heart. Hear Ruth La'Ontra In Her Own Words... http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/ruthlaontra_intvw.htm Personal letters from Zora Hurston is a new play going down at The Waco Theater Center North Hollywood May 11- 20, 2018. LETTERS FROM ZORA explores Hurston’s controversial views on integration, segregation and social justice showcasing a life that was filled with artistic triumphs as well as abject poverty and self-doubt. Veteran actress Vanessa Bell Calloway plays the role of Zora in this provocative multimedia production directed by Anita Dashiell-Sparks and written by novelist Gabrielle Pina. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJqMAqnJnoU&feature=youtu.be Although Bishop Noel Jones is renowned as a Pastor, prolific orator and astute intellectual, his church, City of Refuge, boasts one of the most dynamic music ministries in the nation, as Minister of Music Gerald Haddon (brother of Deitrick Haddon) has done a praiseworthy job gathering a fantastic array of talented singers and musicians. RUN TO THE ALTAR’ is their new release. The title track is also the lead radio single; a riveting plea for the troubled to seek the love of Jesus Christ in their quest for deliverance and mercy. Other standouts include “Holy Ghost,”and“Rain” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azfEYQVwpeo&feature=youtu.be LEXI offers her anticipated new album JUST LISTEN for digital pre-order today. Fans pre-purchasing JUST LISTEN before its release date on June 8 will receive two songs instantly— the radio hit “In The Room,” and Lexi’s rendition of the classic Winans favorite “Wherever I Go.” Lexi’s first new album in over six years, JJUST LISTEN moves seamlessly between urban grooves and up-tempo dance numbers, to beautiful pop ballads and smooth soul tracks. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zr2_6c1FZWw. Here is an opportunity to be discovered. All aspiring and professional singers and dancers who desire to share the stage with gospel singer, Donnie McClurkin, must submit their performance video before midnight (PST) on Friday, May 25th. Contestants in groups comprising, three to six members, must upload their videos featuring one of the award-winning singer’s songs that’s provided at DonnieTV.com or Donnie’s Facebook page. The winners will be announced on Friday, June 1 social media and the Donnie McClurkin Radio Show. The live TBN concert taping at the Holyland Experience theme park in Orlando, Florida on June 25 will mark Donnie McClurkin’s fifth solo live recording. There’s no official date for the release, but fans planning to attend the recording will be the first to hear McClurkin’s new music. According to the RIAA stats, Live from London and More… and Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs surpassed the platinum plus position and remain two of the singer’s best sellers. While We Are One (Live in Detroit) and The Journey (Live) continued to showcase the vocalist in the setting audiences have come to love. His classic studio releases include the self-titled Donnie McClurkin and Again, both landing in the RIAA gold gallery; and Duets featuring collaborations with some of gospel music’s top voices. Brian Courtney Wilson continues his success with his fourth studio album A GREAT WORK. The title track, “A Great Work,” hit the Top 10 on the BDS gospel radio chart this week, marking it the fastest-rising single of Wilson’s career. This week, Brian shares exclusive videos of a live performance at Sirius XM in New York City. Wilson offers two renditions from the album “A Great Work,” and “Increase My Faith.” These exclusive videos are available on Wilson’s YouTube/Vevo page: https://www.youtube.com/user/BrianCourtWilsonVEVO. Wilson is also slated to appear at the Gospel Music Association’s 5th Annual Gospel Hall of Fame ceremony, where he will perform as part of a tribute to the legendary Staples Singers. The gala takes place tonight in Nashville, TN and will stream via FB Live on the GMA Dove Awards Facebook Page tonight, beginning at 7pm CST. Hear Brian Courtney Wilson IN His Own Words...http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/brian_courtney_wilson.htm Kelontae Gavin soars on the Billboard Gospel Charts with the single "No Ordinary Worship" (most Added) and "The Higher Experience" effort #2. Kelontae Gavin says, "Thank You" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ikUZPEY2gEs&feature=youtu.be Worship group Fresh Start Worship soars into Top 5 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums chart, with their debut self-titled album FRESH START WORSHIP(Marquis Boone Enterprises). The groups refreshing and organic sounds, have permeated the hearts of many across nation. With their lead single “Mention,” building momentum at gospel radio, the group celebrates their debut success. Fresh Start Worship is a group of 5 singers and songwriters who make up the praise team at Fresh Start Church located in Duluth, GA. Worshipping together as a group for over 6 years, Marquis Boone developed the ministry as they began traveling with him to sing. Self-proclaimed song writers, Fresh Start Worship writes all of their own music and minister them every Sunday to a room full of worshippers. Millennial Traditional Gospel sensation Jarell Smalls reaches the top 20 this week on the Billboard Top Gospel Album chart with his “A New Season” album release. “A New Season” from Jarell Smalls & Co. features the groundbreaking single “Prayer Room” (Come On In The Room) which has amassed over 400,000 streaming YouTube views as well as being played on terrestrial radio stations across the country appearing on the Billboard Gospel Indicator chart and impending the Billboard National Gospel Airplay chart. Gospel Music Icon, Yolanda Adams receives her first Tony Award Nomination for the Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre of SpongeBob SquarePants The Broadway Musical along with Steven Tyler & Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Sara Bareilles, Jonathan Coulton, Alex Ebert of Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, The Flaming Lips, Lady Antebellum, Cyndi Lauper & Rob Hyman, John Legend, Panic! at the Disco, Plain White T's, They Might Be Giants, T.I., Domani & Lil'C. The Piney Woods School is hosting its second annual Family Funday Gospel Festival Saturday, May 6, 2017 on the campus of the historic boarding school. This is a great way to raise money for the school while also allowing the public to get a glimpse of what we do here, says Piney Woods School President, Dr. Will Crossley. The Family Fun Day portion of the event includes games and recreational activities (swimming, horse back riding, etc.) for the whole family. A variety of food vendors will be on hand to feed the hungry crowd. The gospel festival will feature The Canton Spirituals, JJ Hairston, Evelyn Turrentine-Agee, Paul Porter, Damon Little, Jimmy Hicks, Jekalyn Carr, Sir the Baptist and Uncle Reece. Check out hot, new music from Kenny Lewis & One Voice entitled "Thank You". Thank You, is the follow up single to Kenny's chart topping single "Love Song" and the 2nd single from the hit album "Refocus". Hear Kenny Lewis In His Own Words...http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/kennylewis_intvw.htm Liberty University announced that former President Jimmy Carter will deliver the keynote address at Commencement on Saturday, May 19, 2018. It will be Liberty’s 45th Commencement and will include the College of Osteopathic Medicine’s inaugural graduating class. The GMA (Gospel Music Association) Foundation is set to host its 5th Annual GMA Honors and Hall of Fame Ceremony set for Tuesday, May 8, 2018 at Lipscomb University's Allen Arena. This year's GMA Hall of Fame inductees include CCM artist Carman, award-winning Southern Gospel artist Karen Peck Gooch, legendary Gospel family group The Staples Singers and acclaimed producer Greg Nelson. The event also honors individuals and organizations that are impacting our culture both past and present. This year's honorees include Chonda Pierce for Branches Counseling Center, Bishop Marvin Sapp, Ryan Lampa for People Loving Nashville and Lipscomb University. Performers and presenters will be announced in the coming weeks. www.gospelmusichalloffame.org. The sold-out Tom Joyner Foundation Fantastic Voyage® presented by Denny's is embarking on its 19th cruise this week from Galveston, TX. Generally known as the original Party with a Purpose®. Setting sail April 29-May 6, the 2018 Voyage's promise of nonstop entertainment includes An Evening with Anita Baker and performances from Tamar Braxton, The Isley Brothers, Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, 112, SWV, En Vogue, and The O'Jays. This year's event will take place on the luxurious Carnival Breeze. Additional performances by Pastor Shirley Caesar, Eric Roberson, Raheem DeVaughn, Marvin Sapp, Force MDs, Heatwave, Taste of Honey, and and more. Jason Nelson has curated a musical e-card for fans to share with their loved ones in honor of Mother’s Day. From now through May 13th, fans worldwide can generate and share a personalized e-card with a photo of their choice and a personal message. The e-card will also include an encouraging scripture from Isaiah 66:13, “As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you…” (NIV) and the poignant lyrics, “Forever Is A Long Time. That’s How Long I’ll Love You. That’s How Long I’ll Love You…Forever,” from Jason’s new hit single “Forever.” “Forever” is the lead single from Jason’s latest and fifth solo album, The Answer, which is available for pre-order now and will be released everywhere on May 18th. The Mother’s Day e-card can be shared via email, text message, and social media. Create your own Mother’s Day e-card now: www.tweematic.com/forever/ Dorinda Clark Cole will hold the Rose Connections Conference August 31 - September 2. NEW YORK.... STAND UP! Tye Tribbett is comin back to NEW YORK!!! May 16th he rocks Sony Hall. The powerful pen and voice of Maranda Curtis is making its mark in the world of worship with the release of the new album, Open Heaven. Recorded live in Delaware, Open Heaven offers a unique blend of gospel, jazz, soul and pure inspiration which captures the listener. The video for “Open Heaven,” has already amassed over 200,000+ Youtube views and continues to connect with people around the world. Open Heaven is available today on all digital outlets and everywhere music is sold and streamed. It is currently Number 1 for the Top Christian / Gospel albums on iTunes and Amazon. GRAMMY® Award-winning legendary recording artist, songwriter, and producer Donald Lawrence continues to be a pioneering force in Gospel, as the chart-topping choirmaster reunites with The Tri-City Singers to launch the new single, “Goshen 432 hz.” Available now on all digital music platforms, and freshly delivered to Gospel radio nationwide, “Goshen 432 hz” kicks off a landmark anniversary reunion of Lawrence with the original Tri-City Singers, commemorating the 25 years since the debut album, A Songwriter’s Point of View. The first single“Goshen 432 hz” is a powerful call of protection, love, peace, and safety all over the world that featured soloist Sheri Jones-Moffett . Donald Lawrence also will be traveling the country, on the McDonald’s Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour, which kicks off in May. VINCENT COUNTRY, a faith-driven family lifestyle brand committed to positive social impact, has officially launched nationwide. Developed by Troy and Tommi Vincent, the brand was founded on the premise of enriching the culture and communities through intentional service and legacy-inspired cooking. “At the core of our family is faith and food. We are looking forward to sharing both through VINCENT COUNTRY," says Tommi Vincent. Iz-Real, rapper, producer, preacher, and former member of the group Everyday Process has maintained a successful streak of interest with latest single “Ball Out” after a four-year sabbatical. Iz delivers a fresh connotation of the popular phrase. “Ball Out” has a captivating beat with a powerful message that inspires listeners to redefine the analogy of ballin’ out for Christ! His new (EP) is called "No Hard Feelings." The Wardlaw Brothers (TWB) and their signature tight harmonies, smooth choreography and southern charm have captivated audiences world wide. Tony, Martin Luther, Jamie, Carl and Rodney are brothers with talent, showmanship and an undying love for God and God's people. TWB is ready to release their long awaited new album STAND THERE. Their new singles from the forthcoming 2018 album. "Come Through" and "Highest Praise" are the new hits from STAND THERE and their current single “God Has Kept Me” is hot on the charts. Their soulful song has also garnered over 100,000 streams across all streaming platforms. Keith "Wonderboy Johnson's Keep On Pushin' delivers a wide-ranging, soul-satisfying set of songs that showcase his special ability to inject the timeless values of traditional gospel into contemporary settings. The album drops April 27, 2018. Hear Keith "Wonder Boy" Johnson In His Own Words...http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/Keith_Wonderboy_Johnson.htm TV One's EVIDENCE OFINNOCENCE spotlights the unbelievable true stories of four people who endured this life-altering nightmare-innocent of crimes for which they were arrested and ultimately imprisoned. Premiering Monday, June 4 at 10/9c PM on TV One and hosted by acclaimed civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump, each one-hour episode of Evidence of Innocence focuses on one wrongfully convicted man or woman - Lisa Roberts, Richard Miles, Melonie Ware and Mark Schand - each faced with the enormous challenge of maintaining faith while awaiting the opportunity to prove their innocence. Jonathan Nelson is known for his hit songs and hit songs that he has penned for other artists. Some of those songs include “Manifest”, “My Name Is Victory”, “Healed”, and “The Struggle Is Over”. Nelson has written for Donald Lawrence, JJ Hairston, Maurette Brown Clark, TD Jakes, Stephen Hurd, and Troy Sneed. His new single, "I Agree”, is Caribbean inspired with great tempo and powerful declaratory lyrics. Jonathan has seen his ministry expand exponentially over the past few years because of his international hit “I Believe”. He’s continuing in that vein with this new single. “I Agree”has the same musical flavor but provides poignant declarations of faith. A standout lyric says “I concur, I agree, I believe… what God says about me, all things are possible, all things.” His new album is set to release in the summer of 2018. TV One has announced the 2018 American Black Film Festival (ABFF) TV One Screenplay Competition finalists - Fedna Jacquet (New York, NY), writer of "Isaiah"; Rashim Cannad (Los Angeles, CA), writer of "Connected"; and Sylvester K. Folks (Deatsville, AL), writer of "The Patrolman." The three finalists of the TV One competition will receive an all-expense paid trip to this year's ABFF in Miami (June 13-17). During ABFF's TV One "Celebrity Scene Stealers" event on Friday, June 15, each finalist will direct a table read of a scene from their script, performed by professional actors participating in this year's festival in front of a live audience. TV One today announced that production is underway in Atlanta, Georgia for the new film, Dinner For Two, starring Tristan 'Mack' Wilds ("HBO: The Wire", "90210", "The Secret Life of Bees", and "Shots Fired"), Chaley Rose ("Nashville"), Prince Hammond ("Claws") and Shaun Baker ("House Party"). The film is slated to premiere at the end of Summer 2018. In a complicated love story about life and sacrifice, Dinner For Two, details a solution to healing a broken heart. In preparation for his "last supper", Chris sets the mood by recreating a favorite dish he shared with his once beloved Angela. As Chris reflects on great memories over multiple glasses of wine and whiskey, he also mourns the loss of their relationship. To permanently numb the pain, Chris contemplates taking his own life, as Angela refuses to love him back and forgive his downward alcoholic spiral. Called and uniquely anointed to reach generations for the cause of Christ, singer, composer, preacher and worship leader Geoffrey Golden ushers in the spirit of revival with the release of See Revival, the first single from his live disc recorded last year in June. The new single hit digital outlets and streaming platforms on Friday, April 20th. The Season 7 Winner of Sunday Best embarks upon a new endeavor collaborating with his brothers Reggie and Kevin to form Golden Brothers Music Group and recently announced a partnership with Red Alliance Media and Fair Trade Services For distribution. Central Park’s SummerStage Presents: The 3 Sides of Damien Sneed: Classical, Jazz & Sanctified Soul on June 30. The annual main stage concert event will feature Metropolitan Opera rising star Brandie Sutton and Grammy-nominated artists Stefon Harris and Keke Wyatt. Acclaimed vocalist Jazzmeia Horn will open the show. Marquis Boone introduces Fresh Start Worship. This pure and refreshing group of singers debut self-titled project FRESH START WORSHIP is available on all digital outlets now. The 11-track effort is produced by Tedy P. By now most people in America knows about comment made by Day Time TV Host Wendy Williams about The Clark Sisters! During her Hot Topics segment this past Tuesday, Williams went to congratulate Snoop Dogg for having the #1 Album of the Year. Not true, the year is not up yet. However, Snoop Dogg's album is #1 and has been for three weeks (3) weeks since it's debut. The Clark Sisters have "You Bring The Sunshine" on the album. Wendy said The Clark Sisters needs to step up their game and now she wants to invite them on her show. Man! Gold and Platinum selling Gospel/Jazz Pianist, NBC/Bravo reality TV star, private pilot and pastor Ben Tankard is living a Full Tank Life. The godfather of Gospel Jazz was recently inducted into the Stellar Awards Honors Hall of Fame at the 2018 Stellar Awards in March. Tankard's honor by The Stellar Awards exemplifies his lifetime of achievements in the Gospel Music industry as an artist, musician and producer. The 15-time Stellar Award winner has earned numerous awards and accolades on his recent 3-Volume FULL TANK gospel/jazz CD and his best-selling, hardback, self-help book The Full Tank Life: Fuel Your Dreams-Ignite Your Destiny. Tankard is now taking flight across the country this spring and summer on a whirlwind book and cd tour to empower everyone to live a Full Tank Life! His The Full Tank Life: Fuel Your Dreams, Ignite Your Destiny book was named an Essence Magazine Inspirational Book of the Year and is available now in hardback, paperback, ebook and audiobook versions. J.J. Hairston & Youthful Praise continue to reach higher heights as they are nominated for three (3) Billboard Music Awards. The nominations include Top Gospel Artist, Top Gospel Album, and Top Gospel Song for their #1 hit, "You Deserve It." They were also nominated for a GRAMMY® Award earlier this year. "You Deserve It" and the group's current Top Ten single, "No Reason To Fear," hail from their latest album, You Deserve It. Bishop Leonard Scott is back with another smash hit "Working In My Favor", boasting an A-list supporting cast, featuring Fred Hammond, Shirley Murdock, and Jeral Gray & New Direction. This summer jam is one of the featured up-tempo hits on Bishop Leonard Scott's upcoming new release entitled "Jesus Love Legacy". Atlanta’s DeVon Baker, CEO of BakersWay Entertainment presents Zuri Craig’s hit musical stage-play, ‘The House That Misery Built”. The spine tingling production comes to Raleigh, North Carolina Sunday, June 3. Doors open at 5pm and showtime is 6pm. After starring in several Tyler Perry plays and a Top 5 finalist on America’s Got Talent, Zuri Craig, stepped into the directors role. The play stars LaShaun Pace, KeKe Wyatt, Le'Andria Johnson and Q Parker. Chadwick Boseman to deliver Commencement address at Howard University. “I’m excited to return to the Mecca in celebration of the achievements of our illustrious students,” said Chadwick Boseman. Boseman will deliver the address for Howard University’s 150th Commencement on May 12, 2018. For updated information about Commencement, please visit: commencement.howard.edu Vanessa Bell Calloway visits The Wendy Show. Vanessa Bell Calloway Stars in the Bounce TV #1 drama "Saints & Sinners" on Friday, April 20. 2018. RCA Inspiration celebrates four total nominations across all top Gospel categories for the 2018 Billboard Music Awards, with double nominations in the category of Top Gospel Album. Chart-topper, Travis Greene, is honored with three nominations for Top Gospel Artist, Top Gospel Album, for his #1 GRAMMY®-nominated album Crossover: Live from Music City, and Top Gospel Song for his #1 Grammy nominated album "Crossover: Live From Music City and top single "You Waited." Greene won his first Billboard Music Award last year for "Made A Way." Marvin Sapp was also nominated for his #1 Grammy nominated album, "Close." The 2018 Billboard Awards go down in Las Vegas Sunday May 20th and air live on NBC at 8 pm ET / 5 pm PT. His boisterous spirit and exuberant stage presence is an indication of a person seeking and living in light, love and happiness. Gospel artist Robert Hawkins is that person. Robert is an independent artist with a hustle and drive that doesn't stop. He criss-crosses the country each week ministering at churches and every venue or event he can confirm. His work ethic keeps him on Billboard Top Gospel sales chart with his EP RESERVED which debuted at #10 and keeps building his career and presence as a "New, Now, Next Generation" artist with a bright future This weekend, Snoop Dogg’s episode of “UNCENSORED” airs on TV One, April 22nd at 10/9C. https://youtu.be/gixrCuD2CEI The GMA (Gospel Music Association) Foundation announced its inductees and honorees for the 5th Annual GMA Honors and Hall of Fame Ceremony set for Tuesday, May 8, 2018 at Lipscomb University's Allen Arena. This year's GMA Hall of Fame inductees include CCM artist Carman, award-winning Southern Gospel artist Karen Peck Gooch, legendary Gospel family group The Staples Singers and acclaimed producer Greg Nelson. The event also honors individuals and organizations that are impacting our culture both past and present. This year's honorees include Chonda Pierce for Branches Counseling Center, Bishop Marvin Sapp, Ryan Lampa for People Loving Nashville and Lipscomb University. Performers and presenters will be announced in the coming weeks. Grammy-award nominated songwriter David Bloom wins a Stellar Award for the Song of the Year for “You Deserve It.”, the song so masterfully recorded by JJ Hairston. Bloom wrote the song in 2014 after a particularly trying time in his life. He went on to play the song in his church and JJ Hairston heard the song in Kansas City where he fell in love with it and wanted to record it for his upcoming album. 20 year-old acclaimed independent artist, actress, published author, and charismatic motivational speaker, Jekalyn Carr, along with Hallelujah 95.7 and Lunjeal Music Group have partnered together to bring the inaugural You Will Win Conference, in which it will offer some of the best information that will help you win in your family, home, business, television, music industry, finances and many more areas in your life. Oprah Winfrey Network announced the second season premiere of its hit docu-series “Black Love” on Saturday, May 12 at 10 p.m. ET/PT. The series which highlights love stories from the Black community debuted last fall with 1.2 million total viewers, becoming OWN’s most-watched unscripted series debut in network history and its highest-rated unscripted series debut in more than four years. This second season will feature Emmy Award-winning actor Sterling K. Brown and wife Ryan Michelle Bathe, Emmy Award-winning actress Niecy Nash and husband Jay Tucker, Tina Knowles-Lawson and husband Richard Lawson, NBA All-Star Grant Hill and Grammy-nominated recording artist ?Tamia, RUN DMC’s Rev Run and wife Justine Simmons, Grammy Award-winning gospel recording artist ?Kirk Franklin and wife Tammy, comedian D.L. Hughley and wife LaDonna, former NFL-running back Eddie George and wife Taj of SWV, Hip-Hop artist Styles P and wife Adjua, Actors Alano Miller and Dewanda Wise, NFL Linebacker Bart Scott and wife Starr, and more. New Jersey’s own Anthony Ponder & Ministry's Desire (APMD) is a collection of individual artists brought together for the sole focus of authentic ministry. Front man Anthony Ponder founded the ensemble in 2007 and unified talented, seasoned members who have toured and performed with award winning artists Jazmine Sullivan, Chrisette Michele, VaShawn Mitchell, Mali Music, Ricky Dillard and many more. APMD has returned after several years with an all new single “Favor”. "Favor" features Gospel sensation and “Girl Director”Natalie Wilson with vocal production by VaShawn Mitchell. "Favor" is impacting Gospel Radio now and is available on all digital music outlets and streaming sites. "Favor" is from APMD's forthcoming album THE PROCESS. THE BLUEPRINT is a masterful series of Music Business and Faith-based Marketing sessions developed by The Bellamy Group Marketing and Publicity Agency. THE BLUEPRINT is now headed to ATLANTA! THE BLUEPRINT: Atlanta Edition will be held during the 3rd Annual Steeple Awards Weekend April 20-21. The Blueprint creator BENITA BELLAMY will lead the session and teach a class on "Marketing for Artists, Churches and Authors". Benita's marketing session will tap into key elements of marketing and promotions with a guide of strategies and industry practices. Benita will share information on product registrations, social media strategies and tips on monetization, best advertising mediums and budgeting, and developing innovative promotions and creative cost effective assets. Almost Never Films, Inc. a publicly traded independent film company based in Los Angeles, California, wrapped principle photography of faith-based film "Bethlehem Ranch". The cast of the feature film includes Tara Reid. "Bethlehem Ranch" is helmed by Brent Ryan Green, who was the executive producer of blockbuster faith-based films "Do You Believe?" and "God's Not Dead". Open call auditions for Holywood Entertainment Films' feature film, "Thieves On The Cross," will take place at the Westin Hotel in Southfield-Detroit on Friday, April 20 and Saturday, April 21 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Many roles are open and will remain so until the end of auditions. Callbacks will be held Sunday, April 22. Film production is scheduled to commence on July 10 to August 10, 2018, in Michigan. Director/Co-Creator Robert Watson along with Bill McKinney will be creating this faith based movie that gives us a tale of two childhood friends growing up in a broken environment. An adolescent ritual pact binds them together, but life soon pulls them apart. Later reunited, they are introduced to the intoxicating lure of the streets. On a fast track to the top of their game, they meet, Solomon Pride, who makes them an offer. He will hand them the Music Kingdom on a silver platter and in return, all they have to do is lead a generation to destruction, through a systematic diabolical plot. CHRISTAFARI return April 13th with their latest studio album, “Original Love” (Lion of Zion Entertainment) - available now for pre-order at iTunes, with 4 instant tracks available upon purchase. After nearly three decades, CHRISTAFARI is the all-time top selling Gospel Reggae act and continues to be a driving force in world music. Their last 6 albums have debuted at #1 on the Billboard Reggae Chart. But the band considers themselves to be more than just musicians, but rather “musicianaries” (musical missionaries), spreading the message of hope and salvation globally to approximately 20 countries per year. G.I. are coming off their breakout hit single “Pray and Don’t Worry.” The award-winning trio is back with another summer smash hit single, “I’m Ready!” The catchy hook boasts: “I’m Ready to Follow You Now, I’ve Tried It On My Own But I’m With You Now, I’m Ready, Cause This Is Not The Ending, It's only the Beginning and I'm Ready To Go. Their back in a big way. Hear G.I. In Their Own Words: http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/GI.htm On the hills of her #1 Billboard single “You Will Win,” and Billboard #1 chart-topping album One Nation Under God, GRAMMY®, Two-Time Billboard Music Award and GMA Dove Award-nominated and Stellar Award-winning artist, Jekalyn Carr is turning 21. Lunjeal Music Group invites you to join Jekalyn Carr on April 22nd at New Mercies Christian Church in Lilburn, GA for an afternoon of praise and celebration. The Annual Steeple Awards Celebrates Gospel Artists and Ministry Leaders on Saturday, April 21, 2018. It features a live performance by multiple awards winner JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise and many more. This year the award show will be hosted by comedian GRIFF of “Get Up Mornings” w/ Erica Campbell. Now in it's third year, The Steeple Awards brings together some of the biggest names in gospel music and ministry to celebrate their work on the front-line in the battle for souls. This year’s Steeple Awards will feature live performances from JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise, Isabel Davis, Charles Butler & Trinity, David Walker & High Praise, Angelina Sherie Barrett, and Holy Hip Hop breakout star 1K Phew. Michael Vick, former NFL quarterback for the Pittsburg Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles and the Atlanta Falcons has been announced as the 2018 special guest speaker of the highly anticipated Mighty Men of Valor National Men’s Conference, April 13-14, 2018 at the First Baptist Church of Glenarden in Landover, MD. Todd Dulaney has been taped as the musical guest artist. Arrive early, bring friends and family to get autographed Philadelphia Eagles and Atlanta Falcons jerseys and footballs while supplies last! This year’s theme is “Guardians for the Next Generation” with a goal of modeling excellence in manhood (Psalm 102:18). As “guardians of the next generation,” the conference has also added a young adult focus with its Young Lions, “Ready to Roar – Super Natural Expectations” theme, focused on young men ages 13 to 17. On Friday, April 27, global music and entertainment platform, TIDAL is honored to partner with the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) to celebrate the opening of the National Memorial for Peace and Justice and the Legacy Museum in Montgomery, AL with a livestream of the Concert for Peace and Justice. The show will feature performances from The Roots, Usher, Common, Brittany Howard from Alabama Shakes and Kirk Franklin. Beginning at 7:30 PM CT audiences world-wide will be able to watch as history happens on TIDAL.com/EJI. While the livestream will be available to members and non-members alike, new TIDAL customers will be eligible for a free three-month trial. Iconic artist Snoop Dogg hits television in a blitz of appearances for his record-breaking #1 gospel album Bible of Love (All The Time Entertainment / RCA Inspiration) – kicking off the week with performances on Jimmy Kimmel Live airing tonight, Monday April 9th on ABC at 11:35 pm/10:35c. Snoop welcomes a range of special guests with him on Jimmy Kimmel Live, featuring appearances by Charlie Wilson, Jazze Pha, Isaac Carree, Mali Music, Sly, and Uncle Chucc. Snoop Dogg will also appear on Watch What Happens Live later this week, airing Thursday April 12th on Bravo at 11 pm/10c. Snoop will then sit down with Steve Harvey on his syndicated talk show Steve, airing Friday. The Minnie’s Food Pantry Feed Just One Gala 10th Annivesary celebration was nothing short of magical as global media leader and philanthropist Oprah Winfrey took the stage and inspired a sold-out room of 760 people to pledge a total of $1.3 million to support the organization in their mission to reduce hunger. Millions know Audrey DuBois Harris for singing for President Barack Obama and the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. Now Harris has released her new CD, “God Bless America,” with longtime collaborator and music maestro, Damien Sneed. The five-song EP features the title track along with classics and contemporary compositions: “Amazing Grace,” “God Can Do Anything But Fail,” "Give Me Jesus" and Precious Lord Take My Hand." Recording new artist Trisha Alicia is blazing a trail for herself in the music industry. The songbird from Rochester NY has landed herself once again on the Billboard Charts! Trisha has now landed two of her popular songs “Jesus You”re There”s and Promises” ft. Canton Jones on Billboards Gospel Most Added List. Meet Trisha Alicia: In Her Own Words: http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/TrishaAlicia_17JUNE2016_intvw.mp3 Bounce [TV] is gearing up for the season three return of their #1 original series, “Saints & Sinners.” The show returns, Sunday, April 8. “Saints & Sinners” tells the story of the conflicts among the members of a Baptist church in small-town Georgia. The plot consists of greed, corruption and murder. The second season of Saints & Sinners was seen by nearly 8.4 million unduplicated viewers and 5.7 million households across all airings on Bounce. Meet one of it's Stars Keith Robinson/ Miles Callaway In Her Own Words: http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/keithrobinson_intvw.htm Coming off winning first place and $2,000 at the Lift Every Voice Choir Competition in Lake City, South Carolina, the Award-winning Francis Marion University YGB Gospel Choir led by choir director Jeffrey Lampkin, made a stop at Good Morning America in New York City during their “My Mind Is Made Up” Spring tour March 16-20. When Martin Luther King Jr. was murdered in Memphis, TN on April 4, 1968, he left a legacy of profound change, yet there was still much unfinished work. HISTORY presents “Rise Up: The Movement that Changed America,” a one-hour documentary executive produced by LeBron James and Maverick Carter for Spring Hill Entertainment and Emmy-Award winning filmmaker Stanley Nelson (The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution, Freedom Riders), exploring the key battles in the Civil Rights Movement that transformed American society – from the Montgomery Bus Boycott of 1955 to the Chicago Campaign which led to the Fair Housing Act of 1968. Premiering Wednesday, April 4 at 10PM ET/PT on the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.’s death, the special will uncover what it took to translate protest into real legislative change. IMG Artists, today’s leading global performing arts management agency, has signed multi-genre recording artist Damien Sneed to its international roster and confirms that Sneed will embark on a 36-city North American concert tour in 2019. “IMG Artists is thrilled to be working with Damien Sneed,” says Toby Tumarkin, Senior Vice President, Global Head of Artists and Attractions. "We look forward to indtroducing Damien to communities across the country through this moving tribute to Dr. King. Aaron Lavelle is ready to take on the Gospel Music scene with a vibrant new single ‘Ain’t No God Like the One I Got’ featuring Three Time Stellar Award Winner Beverly Crawford. A fresh new sound deemed by Lavelle as ‘Gospel Funk’ is a fusion of R&B, Funk and Gospel music. Catchy hook and ceremonious sing-along lyrics. The debate over the reliability of the New Testament changes in “Fragments of Truth,” coming to U.S. movie theaters this April for a special one-night event. Famed evangelical New Testament scholar and author Dr. Craig Evans discusses new evidence concerning Gospel manuscripts that allegedly reinforce the New Testament’s authenticity. Ricky Dillard is back with a high energy new single from his acclaimed 2017 release, “10”. The “I’ve Got The Victory” performance on the Stellar Awards this weekend was a highlight of the telecast! "I've Got The Victory" is a powerful hand clapping, foot stomping song that features belovedNew G member and powerhouse vocalist, Lillian Lloyd. The choir master hand delivered another hit! TV One has announced the start of production in Los Angeles for the new original docu-series WE'RE THE CAMPBELLS. The docu-series follows Gospel music power coupleWarryn and Erica Campbell as they balance raising their family, building their own individual empires, growing their flourishing church ministry and maintaining their strong faith. Married since 2001, WE'RE THE CAMPBELLS will allow viewers to follow Warryn and Erica as they manage their hectic daily work schedules while fostering a healthy marriage and raising three children with the help of their core group of family and friends. Today, Capitol Records released GRAMMY®-nominated singer-songwriter Tori Kelly’s new track, “Help Us To Love” featuring The Hamiltones. The song was written and produced by 12-time GRAMMY winner Kirk Franklin. Tori Kelly said, “I grew up on gospel music, so the fact that a legend like Kirk Franklin would take me under his wing was just a dream come true. He genuinely cares for people and the warm environment he created really helped me to be able to pour my heart into this song. Multi award winning Christian artist Appointed releases her new single titled “Glorious” this month. The single will be available on iTunes, Amazon and all digital retailers worldwide. The 33rd Annual Stellar Awards weekend will go down as historic for Karew Records recording artists the Greater Institutional Church of God in Christ Choirs. Their Billboard Top 5 debut project GEI Live was nominated in two categories, Contemporary Choir of the Year as well as Song of the Year. Producers J Drew Sheard III and Derrick Starks were all smiles as they celebrated their hit "Hang On." It was Broadcast Music, Incorporated (BM) Most Performed Song Of the Year. The Los Angeles Film School appointed veteran talent manager, television producer, entrepreneur, and author of motivational text "Change Starts with ME!," Sonja Norwood, to its faculty, effective immediately. Norwood brings her more than 20 years of talent management experience with Grammy Award winner, actress, daughter Brandy and Platinum recording artist, actor, son, Ray J, to the school. She will lend her industry expertise to The Los Angeles Film School and its students as an adjunct professor of artist management in the entertainment business department. The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), along with Motown Gospel, celebrated music’s most prestigious names in gospel at the 9th annual “Morning Glory” Breakfast reception honoring the 2018 Stellar Awards nominees. The program featured uplifting performances by Motown Gospel artist and Grammy-nominated singer Kenny Lattimore, who professed that while he is well known for his R&B songs, his love for gospel music has always been strong. The audience was moved by his spirit-filled performance of his song “We Want to See You.” Last year’s host and newly signed Motown Gospel artist, Lexi, hit the stage to perform her newest single, “In the Room,” and dedicated her new album to her late husband. The room was full of gospel music’s tastemakers, artists and Stellar Awards nominees including: Anthony Brown, J.J. Hairston, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Janice Gaines, The Williams Brothers, Bishop Cortez Vaughn, Dana T. Sorey, Bryan Popin, Marcus Hodge, The Showers, Darnell Williams, Bizzle, Charles Butler, Gene Moore, JAVEN, Derek Blanks, Jason Nelson and Kelontae Gavin. Award-Winning Artist Tamela Mann received high honors at the Stellar Gospel Music Awards held over the weekend in Las Vegas. She took home the James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement award recognizing her career and contribution to Gospel music.http://www.gospel-spotlight.com RCA Inspiration received multiple honors at the 33rd Annual Stellar Awards hosted by music icon Kirk Franklin and held at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, NV. Travis Greene, took home four awards for Producer of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, Contemporary Male Vocalist of the Year and the Stellar Awards’ top honor, Artist of the Year, Crossover: Live from Music City. 22-time Stellar Award winner, Marvin Sapp, added two more Stellar Awards, winning Traditional Male Vocalist of the Year, and Traditional CD of the Year for Close. For the third consecutive year, RCA Inspiration claimed the award for Special Event CD of the Year, for Greenleaf Soundtrack: Volume 2. And the legendary Kurt Carr was inducted into the Stellar Honors Hall of Fame for his pioneering career and indelible impact on Gospel music. RCA Inspiration held a star-studded event in Las Vegas, NV at the Sayers Club in the SLS Hotel on Saturday March 24th in association with TV One. The Cool Down Stellar Awards Celebration Finale event celebrated the conclusion of the 33rd Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, and featured notable artists and executives in attendance including Kirk Franklin, Koryn Hawthorne, The Walls Group, Le'Andria Johnson, Jason Nelson, Donald Lawrence, Tasha Page Lockhart,The Hamiltones, Anika Noni Rose, Laurieann Gibson, Greenleaf cast members Merle Dandridge, Deborah Joy Winans, Tye White and Jason Dirden, General Manager of TV One Michelle Rice, President & CEO of Provident Music Group Terry Hemmings, and Senior Vice President & General Manager of RCA Inspiration Phil Thornton. The 33rd Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards premieres on TV ONE on March 30th at 9 pm/8c Dr. Bernice A. King, CEO of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change (The King Center) has announced plans that The Center will lead the nation and the world in the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of her father’s assassination. Dr. King stated, “This year we will commemorate the 50th anniversary of my father’s violent departure from us as well as the founding of The Center by my mother.” On April 4th The Center will award its highest honor, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Nonviolent Peace Prize. This year we honor two distinguished gentlemen. Mr. Benjamin Ferencz, Esq. for his courageous work as a prosecutor for the Nuremburg, Germany Nazi Leadership trials and Mr. Bryan Stevenson, Esq. for his fearless advocacy work in the legal field and his winning the historic ruling making mandatory life-without-parole sentences for all children 17 or younger unconstitutional. The award will be followed by a reception and moderated dialogue with Attorneys Ferencz and Stevenson. Legendary artist Snoop Dogg is continuing to break down barriers and set records with his latest music project and first gospel album, Bible of Love . Released on March 16th, the 32-track album debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums chart and #1 on Nielsen SoundScan’s Gospel Total Consumption chart. Additionally, Bible of Love is #2 on Billboard’s Top 200 Christian & Gospel chart, #2 on Nielsen SoundScan’s Christian / Gospel Digital Album chart, #3 on Billboard’s Top Christian & Gospel Album’s chart and has been streamed over three million times in its first week, which broke the previous record for a gospel album. Featuring guest artists , Charlie Wilson, Rance Allen, Kim Burrell, Isaac Carree, The Clark Sisters, Dazz Dillinger, Faith Evans, K-Ci, John P. Kee, Patti LaBelle, Mali Music, Jazze Pha, Marvin Sapp, B. Slade, Tye Tribbett and co-executive producer, Lonny Bereal, Bible of Love, has been making a powerful impact on the public, the media and other entertainers alike. Snoop can be seen performing music from Bible of Love on the 33rd Annual Stellar Awards premiering on TV One on Friday, March 30th and on Jimmy Kimmel Live on ABC on Monday, April 9th. On the heels of a successful Stellar Awards weekend in Las Vegas, NV, Motown Gospel celebrates four wins for Tasha Cobbs Leonard, one of the most popular artists in gospel music. Cobbs Leonard earned top honors for CD of the Year, as well as Female Vocalist of the Year and Contemporary Female Vocalist of the year. Her chart-topping album, Heart. Passion. Pursuit., was also recognized for Recorded Music Packaging of the Year, as designed by Derek Blanks. 2018 33rd Annual Stellar Gospel Music Award Winners Category #1 ARTIST OF THE YEAR - Travis Greene, Crossover Live in Music City, RCA Inspiration Category #2 SONG OF THE YEAR - David Bloom, Cortez Vaughn, Phontane Demond Reed & JJ Hairston, You Deserve It, JamesTown Music/Entertainment One Category #3 MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR - Travis Greene, Crossover Live in Music City, RCA Inspiration CATEGORY #4 ALBERTINA WALKER FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR - Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Heart. Passion. Pursuit., Motown Gospel CATEGORY #5 DUO/CHORUS GROUP OF THE YEAR - Anthony Brown & group therAPy, A Long Way from Sunday, Key of A/FairTrade/Tyscot Records CATEGORY #6 NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR - Isabel Davis, The Call, Uncle G Records CATEGORY #7 CD OF THE YEAR - You Deserve It, JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise, JamesTown Music/Entertainment One CATEGORY #8 CHOIR OF THE YEAR - JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise, You Deserve It, JamesTown Music/Entertainment One CATEGORY #9 PRODUCER OF THE YEAR - Travis Greene, Crossover Live in Music City, RCA Inspiration CATEGORY #10 CONTEMPORARY DUO/CHORUS GROUP OF THE YEAR - Anthony Brown & group therAPy, A Long Way from Sunday, Key of A/FairTrade/Tyscot Records CATEGORY #11 TRADITIONAL DUO/CHORUS GROUP OF THE YEAR - The Rance Allen Group, Live from San Francisco, Tyscot Records CATEGORY #12 CONTEMPORARY MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR - Travis Greene, Crossover Live in Music City, RCA Inspiration CATEGORY #13 TRADITIONAL MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR - Marvin Sapp, Close, Verity/RCA Inspiration CATEGORY #14 CONTEMPORARY FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR - Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Heart. Passion. Pursuit., Motown Gospel CATEGORY #15 TRADITIONAL FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR - CeCe Winans, Let them Fall in Love, Pure Springs Gospel CATEGORY #16 CONTEMPORARY CD OF THE YEAR - Heart. Passion. Pursuit., Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Motown Gospel CATEGORY #17 TRADITIONAL CD OF THE YEAR - Close, Marvin Sapp, Verity/RCA Inspiration CATEGORY #18 URBAN/INSPIRATIONAL SINGLE OR PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR - You Deserve It, JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise, JamesTown Music/Entertainment One CATEGORY #19 MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR - Derek Blanks, We Livin - It's Still Personal (Tina Campbell), Gee Tree Creative/Malaco CATEGORY #20 TRADITIONAL CHOIR OF THE YEAR - Bishop Paul S. Morton, Legacy Live in New Orleans, Tehillah Music Group/Entertainment One CATEGORY #21 CONTEMPORARY CHOIR OF THE YEAR - JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise, You Deserve It, JamesTown Music/Entertainment One CATEGORY #22 INSTRUMENTAL CD OF THE YEAR - Kirk Whalum, #LoveCovers, Top Drawer Records CATEGORY #23 SPECIAL EVENT CD OF THE YEAR - Greenleaf Soundtrack Season 2, Various Artists, RCA Inspiration CATEGORY #24 RAP HIP HOP GOSPEL CD OF THE YEAR - Greatness, Canton Jones, Radar Live/Cajo Records CATEGORY #25 YOUTH PROJECT OF THE YEAR - God's Little Soldiers International Boys Choir, Through the Years, DIR/Motor City Praise CATEGORY #26 QUARTET OF THE YEAR - The Williams Brothers, Timeless, Blackberry Records CATEGORY #27 RECORDED MUSIC PACKAGING OF THE YEAR - Derek Blanks, Heart. Passion. Pursuit. (Tasha Cobbs Leonard), Motown Gospel CATEGORY #28 PRAISE AND WORSHIP CD OF THE YEAR - You Deserve It, JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise, JamesTown Music/Entertainment One JAMES CLEVELAND LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT - Tamela Mann THOMAS A. DORSEY MOST NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD - Bishop Kenneth Moales, Sr. DR. BOBBY JONES LEGENDS AWARD - Rev. Milton Biggham ICON AWARD - Edwin Hawkins (posthumously) STELLAR HONORS HALL OF FAME Ben Tankard Dr. Marabeth Gentry Kurt Carr GOSPEL RADIO OF THE YEAR Winners MAJOR MARKET OF THE YEAR - WGRB-AM 1390AM (Inspiration 1390), Chicago, Sonya Blakey LARGE MARKET OF THE YEAR - WOKB 1680AM, Orlando/Central Florida, Shanti Persaud MEDIUM MARKET OF THE YEAR - WFMI 100.9, Virginia Beach, Mike Chandler SMALL MARKET OF THE YEAR - KSYB 1300AM, Shreveport, Rhonda Phillips- Sanders INTERNET STATION OF THE YEAR - SOAR Radio, www.soarradio.com, Justin Francis GOSPEL ANNOUNCER OF THE YEAR - Liz Black, 1190AM WLIB, New York, NY The hosts of CBS The Talk recently announced the nominees for the 45th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards which cover a wide variety of programming including soap operas, talk shows, game shows, children’s shows, animation etc, and amongst this year’s honorees is Entertainment Studios own Judge Mablean Ephriam, whose Justice with Judge Mablean was nominated for Outstanding Court Show/Legal Program! The 45th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards will be held on April 29th in Los Angeles. Central City Productions completed the taping of the 2018 Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards in Las Vegas at the Orleans Arena, hosted by Kirk Franklin. The telecast will premiere on TV One, Good Friday, March 30, at 9/8c . Additionally, the Stellar Awards will air in national broadcast syndication March 31-May 6, 2018. This year’s spectacular show open featured Stellar Awards alum Erica Campbell reuniting with her sister Tina Campbell as the hit gospel duo Mary Mary for the first time in more than six years. The 2018 Annual Stellar Gospel Music included an all-star tribute to the late, great Edwin Hawkins, with his sister Lynette Hawkins accepting the Edwin Hawkins Icon Award in his honor. Also, a stand out moment featured the multi-platinum award-winning Snoop Dogg performing material from his new gospel album, “Bible of Love.” The 2018 Stellar Awards included performances by Snoop Dogg, Mary Mary, Kierra Sheard, Tori Kelly, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Anthony Brown, JJ Hairston, Travis Greene, Jonathan McReynolds, Ricky Dillard, Todd Dulaney, Tasha Page Lockhart, KeKe Wyatt, Canton Jones, Deitrick Haddon, Koryn Hawthorne, Le’Andria Johnson and more. Special presenters included Donnie McClurkin, Merle Dandridge, David Mann, Anika Noni Rose and more. Top winners of the 2018 Stellar Awards were JJ Hairston winning six awards; Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Travis Greene each winning four awards; and Anthony Brown winning two awards. Don Jackson bestowed special honors upon gospel greats who have made significant contributions to the genre. The incomparable Tamela Mann was the 2018 recipient of the James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award and the legendary Rev. Milton Biggham received The Ambassador Dr. Bobby Jones Legends Award. Stellar Honors Hall of Fame Inductees includes Kurt Carr, Ben Tankard, and Dr. Marabeth Gentry - President of the National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses. The Stellar Awards telecast will premiere on TV One on Friday, March 30 at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT and air in broadcast syndication on 130 stations in more than 110 markets around the country March 31 - May 6, 2018. Grammy Award winning recording artistKurt Carr is looking to add two new voices to his acclaimedKurt Carr Singers. In preparation of his forthcoming album, "Bless Somebody Else," Carr is looking to bless two aspiring artists looking for an opportunity in Gospel Music by having them join his collective of singers. To submit, applicants must upload a video under two minutes long to YouTube singing one of the seven pre-selected songs to KurtCarrSingersSearch@gmail.com. Submissions must include full name, age, photograph, city of residence and contact information. All submissions must be emailed by Monday, May 1, 2018. 2018 Stellar Award nominee and chart-topping independent recording artist Bryan Popin is taking his dynamic music ministry and showmanship to the biggest night in Gospel Music during The 33rd Annual Stellar Awards weekend in Las Vegas with high-profile performances at two Official Stellar Awards Sanctioned events. On Friday, March 23, Popin will take the stage at the Stellar Awards Pre-Show to perform a medley of "I Got Out" and "Step In The Name. BET’s Sunday Best Season 5 winner and Mixed Bag Music Gospel recording artist Joshua Rogers is RETURNING with new music after a 5 year recording hiatus and is set to make multiple high-profile public appearances – his first in several years in Las Vegas during the 33rd annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards this weekend including: the Stellar Awards Pre-Show, Gospel Radio Awards and Showcase. This weekend’s episode of TV One’s award-winning series “UNSUNG” featuring Pastor Shirley Caesar https://youtu.be/hxw2LPF9QZQ Coming soon the new series “UNCENSORED” on TV One featuring Le’Andria Johnson. https://youtu.be/iIPhMFkcdhQ [Le’Andria discusses rebellion] Gospel recording artist Isabel Davis is scheduled to record new music live at W. J. Clements Stadium in Boksburg, South Africa, east of Johannesburg. Davis joins CODE R.E.D. (RESTORINGEVERYTHING DAMAGED) in collaboration with Greg Lyons of Uncle G Promotions and Entertainment, who will bring American Gospel artists to South Africa during its three-year partnership for concert events which will be scheduled four times per year. Davis kicks off the inaugural CODE R.E.D. Music Festival on September 1-2. Lionsgate -- Roadside Attractions' release of the Erwin Brothers faith-based family drama I Can Only Imagine shattered pre-weekend tracking expectations to become #3 at the box-office this weekend and the #1 faith-based movie of 2018. The film took in an estimated $17,064,640 for a per-screen average of $10,475 from 1,629 locations in North America. The film received a rare A+ CinemaScore with an audience that was 67% female and 80% over 35. Chart-topping, three-time GRAMMY® nominated, seven-time Stellar Award-winning artist, global worshipper and pastor of Forward City Church, Travis Greene has announced additional tour dates and cities for the culture shifting Crossover Live Tour. After a sold-out first leg on his much-anticipated Crossover Live Tour, Travis kicked off the Crossover Live Tour Vol. 2 on March 2nd in Memphis, TN at the Memphis Grizzles Gospel Night. The tour will be making stops in Phoenix, Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Birmingham, Jacksonville, Orlando and Tampa. His Caribbean Tour kicks off April 2nd in Jamaica. The crossover live tour welcomed surprise guest Israel Houghton, J.J. Hairston and Kierra Sheard. GRAMMY NOMINATED ARTIST AND WEB SERIES STAR TINA CAMPBELL WITH HUSBAND TEDDY CAMPBELL LAUNCH NEW WEBSITE WWW.TEDDYANDTINA.ORG Award-winning broadcaster, Tavis Smiley, the New York Times best-selling author of “Death of a King: The Real Story of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Final Year,” will premiere a 2-hour tribute to King on The Word Network, Wednesday, April 4, 2018. Starting with a deep dive into the most courageous and controversial speech King ever delivered, the 2-hour broadcast will feature The Word Network premiere of Smiley's documentary "MLK: A Call to Conscience." Gospel music legend, Earnest Pugh, has debuted the new concept music video, “Survive,”. The dramatic ballad is the second radio single from Pugh’s ninth album, Survive . View: Portions of the heart-wrenching video https://www.vevo.com/watch/earnest-pugh/survive-(official-music-video)/US2761891798 Central City Productions line-up of performers for the 2018 Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, including the reunion of Mary Mary (Erica Campbell and Tina Campbell), and the Stellar Award's debut of rapper, actor, and television personality Snoop Dogg, performing songs from his new gospel album "Bible of Love” at this year’s show. The 33rd Annual Stellar Awards performers scheduled to appear include: Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Travis Greene, Tye Tribbett, Anthony Brown & group therAPy, Kierra Sheard, KeKe Wyatt, Jonathan McReynolds, Tasha Page-Lockhart, Todd Dulaney, Koryn Hawthorne and Ricky Dillard & New G, among others. Returning to Las Vegas' Orleans Arena on Saturday, March 24, 2018 the Stellar Awards welcomes Kirk Franklin, as host. Six-time GRAMMY® winning artist ISRAEL HOUGHTONreleases his new single today, March 9, titled “Reckless Love” on iTunes, Amazon and all digital retailers worldwide. “Reckless Love” is the first new song from Houghton’s forthcoming EP, due this Spring. TV One has announced that production is underway in Atlanta for the new original holiday movie, MERRY WISH-MAS. Starring Tamela Mann (The Manns) as Keneisha 'Kenni' Wright, a single and successful Atlanta businesswoman who hasn't returned home for the holidays in years, she plays opposite her creative and life partner, husband David Mann (The Manns) as Jessie Jenkins, an old high school friend. The two reunite at Jessie's fledgling wellness facility, the Beverly Living Center, where Kenni is reminded of the transformational power of love, hope and faith, amplified by the spirit of the holidays. The Manns also serve as executive producers on the project, which will premiere this winter on TV One. Directed by award-winning actress, director and producer Terri J. Vaughn. LOS PROFETAS, an Urban/Latin super duo made up of brothers Frank and Miguel Estrada, light up Christian music with their new single, "Light It Up" featuring former Group 1 Crew member Pablo Villatoro. Their 2015 debut album EL PRINCIPIO DEL FINAL (The Beginning of the End) set the stage for the development of their undeniable sound. They followed up with MI DESTINO (My Destiny) – an EP of 6 songs released in 2016 which features their hit "Elévame". Now, with their unique style and Pablo's collaboration, The "Light It Up" single is available on digital music platforms and is accompanied by its official video now available on the duo's YouTube channel. Los Profetas will making an appearance at the upcoming 2018 Stellar Gospel Music Awards week in Las Vegas, NV. The dynamic duo will be performing their new single at the REP DA KING AWARD WEEKEND SHOWCASE at Club His Hop on March 23, attending the Stellar Awards show and making media appearances throughout the Stellar Awards Week. The 36th Annual McDonald’s Gospelfest comes to Newark Symphony Hall (1030 Broad Street, Newark, NJ) on Saturday, May 12th for the gospel event of the year. This year will feature a stellar line-up of gospel artists including Bishop Hezekiah Walker, Jekalyn Carr, VaShawn Mitchell, Le’Andria Johnson, Wes Morgan, Cissy Houston, Melba Moore, and Keith “Wonderboy” Johnson. Radio One and a network of 51 gospel, R&B and hip-hop stations raised $1.7 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital during Urban Radio Cares for St. Jude Kids March 1st and 2nd. Thanks to events such as this families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food. RCA Inspiration, in association with All The Time Entertainment, announced the release of Bible of Love on March 16, 2018. Bible of Love is the 16th album and first–ever gospel project from legendary, award-winning artist and icon, Snoop Dogg, whose career spans more than 25 years. The album is also the first release from All The Time Entertainment, which Snoop launched to provide more opportunities for gospel music artists. Watch the all-new trailer for God’s Not Dead: A Light in Darkness right now In theaters nationwide March 30, 2018, GOD’S NOT DEAD: ALIGHT IN DARKNESS is a powerful reminder that in all circumstances, we are called to be a light for Jesus to a world in desperate need of hope. https://godsnotdead.pureflix.com/ Worship leader, songstress Maranda Curtis releases new single “Nobody Like You Lord,” on all digital sales and streaming platforms today. Right in line with the sound of today’s worship, “Nobody Like You Lord” is perfectly suited for corporate and personal worship. The single precedes her upcoming project OPEN HEAVEN which will include seven all-new songs. Recorded live in Delaware, After the #Metoo movement widespread prevalence of harassment and gender wage gap in Hollywood, Dove and Stellar Award-winning producer, composer and singer Jason White creates "Beautiful", an uplifting music video that epitomizes powerful gifted women across the world. White created 'Beautiful'-the remake of "You Are So Beautiful" composed by the late Billy Preston and made popular by the late Joe Cocker-as an admiration to women starting with the women in his life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EoWAiUu8z4w&feature=youtu.be 2018 is already shaping up to pick up right where the successes of its predecessor left off for 20 Year-Old prolific Author, Billboard No.1 top-selling award-winning independent recording artist, motivational speaker and entrepreneur, Jekalyn Carr. Adding "author" to her already impressive list of credits for her first published book "You Will Win!: Inspirational Strategies to Help You Overcome,” released earlier this week, Carr has now released her highly anticipated fourth independent project, ONE NATION UNDER GOD available today in stores and on digital platforms. Dominique Stroman has formed a joint venture with Mytrell Records to bring digital distribution to independent artists worldwide. Dominique, along with Mytrell President/CEO Cappriccieo M. Scates, will present a strategic platform for new and rising artists via his newly formed imprint 1KINGDOMLIVE. The primary focus of the company will be directed towards gospel music, however, 1KINGDOMLIVE will be receptive to all genres. Jonathan Nelson known for his hit songs and hit songs that he has penned for other artists that include “Manifest”, “My Name Is Victory”, “Healed” and “The Struggle Is Over”. Nelson has written for Donald Lawrence, JJ Hairston, Maurette Brown Clark, TD Jakes, Stephen Hurd and Troy Sneed. His new single. "I Agree” is Caribbean inspired. The song is available for sale on all digital outlets on March 2,2018. His new album is set to release in the summer of 2018. It is with a heavy heart we announce the passing of Millcon Music Ministry Artist Conrad Miller. Conrad transitioned from this life on Saturday, February 24, 2018. The Distinguished Gentleman of Traditional Gospel, Conrad Miller, was known as a seasoned psalmist who worked diligently in music ministry. Conrad's love for gospel and his classical music training afforded the singer to present sacred music that pleasantly continues to fall on the ear and is awakening to the spirit and soul. His last interview with Gospel Spotlight: http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/conrad_miller.intvw.htm Two-time GRAMMY®-nominated and Stellar Award-winning artist, William Murphy, leads an intentionally ground-breaking worship experience with a live recording of his new album “BRIDGES” on Thursday, March 1st in Atlanta, GA. With distinctive vocals and a knack for prayer, the respected worship leader, singer, and songwriter behind the enduring anthems “Praise Is What I Do,” “It’s Working,” and his latest hit single “Everlasting God”, will create a new powerful music encounter for “BRIDGES,” his sixth album, which will feature production from Kenneth and Tasha Cobbs Leonard. Central City Productions announces a dazzling line-up of performers for the 2018 Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, including the reunion of sister act, Mary Mary (Erica Campbell and Tina Campbell), and the Stellar Award's debut of rapper, actor, and television personality Snoop Dogg, performing songs from his new gospel album “Songs of Love”. The 33rd Annual Stellar Awards performers scheduled to appear include: Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Travis Greene, Tye Tribbett, Anthony Brown & group therAPy, Kierra Sheard, KeKe Wyatt, Jonathan McReynolds, Tasha Page-Lockhart, Todd Dulaney, Koryn Hawthorne and Ricky Dillard & New G, among others. Returning to Las Vegas' Orleans Arena on Saturday, March 24, 2018 with the undisputed crown prince of contemporary gospel music, Kirk Franklin, as host. The Stellar Awards telecast will premiere on TV One on Friday, March 30 at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT and air in broadcast syndication on 130 stations. The new album from GRAMMY®-nominated singer/songwriter Brian Courtney Wilson, A GREAT WORK, is available today for pre-order across all digital platforms in advance of the March 23 street date. Fans who pre-order the album via iTunes will instantly receive the album’s lead single and title track, as well as the upbeat “Increase My Faith.” The six-time Grammy® Award winning Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, achieves a marvelous milestone on its brilliant new project, I Am Reminded. The eleven-track set marks the legendary 40+ year-old ensemble’s 30th album. It releases April 6, 2018 via Provident Distribution. It is now available for pre-order on all major digital service providers. The eclectic collection of worship anthems features dynamic solos from soulful singer, Nicole Binion, who has recorded with the choir in the past; Indonesian worship leader, Sidney Mohede, who has written songs for Israel & New Breed; and the duo of Shane & Shane, whose warm harmonies are featured on the instant grat track, “Psalm 23.” The Stellar Gospel Music Award winning online radio station, SOAR Radio, and the founder of Sun Wise Media, Ri- Karlo Handy, have announced the 2nd Annual Soar Radio Gospel Music Awards. The program will take place Monday, April 9, 2018 at The Coronado Performing Arts Center, Rockford, IL . The show, to be taped for television broadcast, will feature performances honoring pioneers from all genres of gospel music. The hosts for evening will be multi-award winning producer, Donald Lawrence, and celebrity personality, Michelle Williams, of Destiny’s Child fame. The moving story of Black American Pioneer Reginald F. Lewis premieres on TV, inspiring a new generation of minority youths to dream big, and to keep going no matter what. The documentary, produced by PBS WNET, chronicles the life and legacy of business pioneer, philanthropist and titan Reginald F. Lewis, the first billion dollar dealmaker in America. A Harvard Law School graduate, Lewis rose to prominence as a lawyer, civil rights activist, financier, and leader of the global food company TLC Beatrice International. Mr. Lewis first in their new pioneers documentary series. Among others, she also thanked business tycoon Tarrus Richardson, who was inspired by Mr. Lewis’ story when he heard it at 14 years old, and gave the largest contribution to make the documentary possible. Reginald F Lewis and the Making of a Billion Dollar Empire will air on Saturday, February 24, 7:00pm on NJTV, and is NOW AVAILABLE for ONLINE STREAMING on www.THIRTEEN.org/pioneers. Multiple award-winner, best-selling recording artist VaShawn Mitchell signs a new deal for his VMAN Entertainment music with Fair Trade Services, in partnership with Tyscot Records. Mitchell’s VMAN Entertainment will bring high-level talent and creativity by offering relevant and contemporary urban worship music. VMAN Entertainment also inked a deal with long-time marketing executive, Larry Blackwell and Blackwell Legacy LLC who will work along with Fair Trade and Tyscot to deliver the upcoming “You Took The Nails,” is a compelling new song just in time and perfectly suited for the Easter season. “You Took The Nails” is impressive, moving, and impassioned song that matches the power of the holiday. The single is available tomorrow on all digital sales and streaming platforms and precedes Mitchell’s new digital EP, CROSS MUSIC available everywhere on March 9. The 3rd Annual Musical Soul Food Festival returns to Chesapeake, VA on Sat. June 23, 2018. It's going to be A-M-A-Z-I-N-G-! Evangelist Billy Graham — a confidant to presidents, a guiding light to generations of American evangelicals and a globe-trotting preacher who converted millions to Christianity — died Wednesday at the age of 99, his spokesman confirmed. Graham passed away at his home in Montreat, North Carolina, spokesman Jeremy Blume said. The angelic-voiced Keyondra Lockett spent years singing with the dynamic group Zie’l before launching her solo career in 2015. Since then, she has emerged as not only a gifted vocalist and songwriter, but a trendsetting creative force and a visionary businesswoman. While thriving in multiple professional lanes, Lockett is excited to announce the release of her new single "Try." Upliftv, the leading faith-based network offering inspirational movies, captivating series and documentaries, as well as a variety of TV ministries, is inviting its viewers to enter the Experience Israel Sweepstakes for a chance to win a 7-night all-inclusive tour for two of Jesus’ footsteps through the Holy Land, Israel. Participating is simple. To enter, all potential candidates must text the word ISRAEL to 94253 or complete an entry form online at upliftv.com/Israel. Just off the heels of a successful East Coast Radio Promo Tour capped off by a live performance on Kirk Franklin Praise on Sirius XM (Air Date TBA) The debut of the "Love Covers" video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ic6zRi8Evgw The GMA (Gospel Music Association) Foundation announced its inductees and honorees for the 5th Annual GMA Honors and Hall of Fame Ceremony set for Tuesday, May 8, 2018 at Lipscomb University's Allen Arena. This year's GMA Hall of Fame inductees include CCM artist Carman, award-winning Southern Gospel artist Karen Peck Gooch, legendary Gospel family group The Staples Singers and acclaimed producer Greg Nelson. The event also honors individuals and organizations that are impacting our culture both past and present. This year's honorees include Chonda Pierce for Branches Counseling Center, Bishop Marvin Sapp, Ryan Lampa for People Loving Nashville and Lipscomb University. Performers and presenters will be announced in the coming weeks. www.gospelmusichalloffame.org. In a world that promotes shame, hiding our scars, and covering the truth, She Won is a safe space for women who share similar stories of abuse. It fosters healthy relationships and facilitates community. The She Won luncheon takes place on Sunday, April 8, 2018 at 2:00 pm at The Modern, Long Beach, CA The goal of this gathering is to unite, celebrate, and empower survivors so that they continue to take their rightful place in the world and thrive. Surrounded by supporters and people who genuinely love them, we will curate an afternoon of acceptance and affirmation. www.officialshewon.com Jekalyn Carr's first book You Will Win... is a printed and digital resource that will provide Biblical and relevant insight for believers including collections of Jekalyn's most poignant and riveting exhortations, pointers, impactful and inspirational messages, that will help readers conquer their storms, live in victory and maintain a winning attitude. As a young motivational speaker for over ten years, Jekalyn has traveled the country speaking to audiences. You Will Win is a reminder that words have the power to create and speak happiness and joy into your life. Jekalyn provides 14 principles to follow and apply along the path to winning. She also offers 7 ways to win and 12 habits for a win. You Will Win is published through Trinity Broadcasting Networks (TBN) — the company’s first book release. President of the Gospel Heritage Foundation, and award-winning singer, songwriter VaShawn Mitchell announces new line up of speakers, performers and honorees for the 2018 International Worship And Arts Summit. The Gospel Heritage Foundation (GHF) will host the 2018 International Worship & Arts Summit February 22-24 2018 in Nashville TN. All day and evening sessions will be held at the Mt. Zion Baptist Church, lNashville TN. NAACP Image Award-Winning Actor and Comedian David Mann and his wife, Grammy® Award-Winning Recording Artist Tamela Mann, are celebrating #BlackLove on Valentine’s Day with the announcement of their forthcoming new memoir, Us Against the World: Our Secrets to Love, Marriage, and Family (W Publishing), available September 25, 2018. With a love story spanning more than 30 years and celebrity careers that have garnered numerous prestigious awards and accolades, superstar couple David and Tamela candidly share about their lifelong love, marriage and blended family, while telling the honest truth about issues they’ve faced including communication, forgiveness, sex, finances, and faith, in their very first book. Wife of television Executive Don Jackson, Dr. Rosemary Robinson Jackson, Ph.D., Chicago educator, business woman and community leader, died Wednesday (February 7, 2018) at the age of 71, succumbing to cancer. Services will be held in Chicago at Christ Universal Temple, on Friday, February 16, 2018, at 11 a.m. There was a sea of red dresses backstage at the Hammerstein Ballroom when women from all facets of the entertainment industry came together for a good cause. Each woman had her special reason for walking the ramp, but one thing for sure the audience could feel the love and support at this year’s 2018 American Heart Association's (AHA) Go Red For Women™ Red Dress Collection, presented by Macy's. “I Go Red in memory of my brother, Ronald Winans, who passed away from heart disease at the age of 48 in 2005,” says CeCe Winans. Multiple award-winner, Grammy nominee Anthony Brown & group therAPy announce THE WINNER’S CIRCLE TOUR, to launch this April. This special limited-run will kick off on Friday, April 5 in Bridgeport, CT. THE WINNER’S CIRCLE TOUR, will have additional dates across the country including Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, Winston-Salem, NC, Richmond VA, Bolingbrook (Chicago), and Indianapolis. Barack and Michelle Obama surfaced at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery Monday morning for the unveiling of their official portraits. The former president’s portrait was painted by Kehinde Wiley,and Mrs. Obama’s portrait was commissioned by Baltimore-based artist Amy Sherald. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uKbtYvJd1Ks Friends, family and fans came from all over the nation to celebrate the life of gospel music legend Edwin Hawkins who died January 15th of complications from pancreatic cancer. He was memorialized with a special musical tribute on Tuesday night at Harbor Light Church in Fremont, CA. Bishop Yvette Flunder facilitated the first of a two-night memorial musical that included some of Hawkins’s music including his iconic song, “Oh Happy Day.” It became the first gospel song to cross genre and racial lines. Among the speakers were Bishop Kenneth Ulmer of the Faithful Central Bible Church of Inglewood, California who joked about dancing to “Oh Happy Day” at the nightclub back in the day. He also shared about the impact Hawkins has had on gospel music. Several gospel music icons were also in attendance including Lady Tramaine Hawkins, Bebe Winans, Richard Smallwood, Dr. Bobby Jones, Ted Winn and Chanel Haynes of Trin-i-tee 5:7 fame were also spotted in the crowd. Rising Nashville based G.Favored Entertainment Group is honored to announce recent song placements on the soundtrack inspired by the forthcoming motion picture SAMSON and on the 2X 2018 Stellar Gospel Music Award nominated and chart Topping album SURE. FOCUSED. CENTERED. byDr. F. James Clark and The NextGeneration Choir. We are sadden with the lose of Rose Jackson the wife of Don Jackson of Central City Productions and founder of The Stellar Awards. Please keep the family in prayer. Capitol Christian Music Group (CCMG) has promoted Monica Coates and EJ Gaines each to the position of Co-Executive Director of Motown Gospel, it was announced today by CCMG Chairman & CEO Peter York. Coates is also promoted to Vice President of A&R/Creative of Motown Gospel, with her responsibilities expanded to oversee the growth and development of the company’s Gospel music publishing assets, and Gaines to Vice President of Marketing at CCMG, bringing his expertise to a broader artist roster. The beloved annual series, WOW GOSPEL, is back again, continuing a long-running tradition of topping the charts. The newly-released compilation, WOW GOSPEL 2018, debuts at #1 this week on the Top Gospel Albums Chart. The release serves as the 20th anniversary of the brand, and its current chart position marks the 19th consecutive year that the series has entered at #1. 2018 Stellar Award nominee and Billboard No .1 independent recording artist Bryan Popin is making noise within the gospel music marketplace with his new concept music video "Step In The Name," garnering over 1 million views in 3 weeks. Released January 16 and exclusively premiered on BET.com and BET Gospel digital platforms, this hot music video brings heat with an infectious funky pop groove that mixes old school with the new school and features cameos from acclaimed Gospel/Christian recording artists and TV/Radio personalities, ranging from DeVon Franklin, Meagan Good, David Mann, Travis Greene, Jonathan McReynolds, Jekalyn Carr, Willie Moore Jr., Darlene McCoy, Jermaine Dolly and more. Watch the "Step In The Name" concept music video here. Koryn Hawthorne continues to garner attention with her stunning artistry and sterling voice, as her hit single “Won’t He Do It” hits #1 on the latest chart for Billboard’s Gospel Digital Tracks. The hit song off of her acclaimed debut project, the Koryn Hawthorne EP, “Won’t He Do It” also remains a top hit across multiple Gospel charts, at #4 on the latest charts for Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs and #7 for Gospel Airplay. A special installment of the Bounce newsmagazine show Ed Gordon called "Am I Black Enough?" will examine the nuances of cultural identity within the Black community to define exactly what it means to "be Black." On Monday, Feb. 12,"Am I Black Enough?" will be available for streaming exclusively on Brown Sugar,. The special will premiere on Bounce ?on ?Saturday, Feb. 17. YouTube URL: https://youtu.be/fEGSdPjPJ7o Today, RCA Inspiration, in association with All The Time Entertainment, announced the release of Bible of Love on March 16, 2018. Bible of Love is the 16th album and first ever gospel project from legendary, award-winning artist and icon, Snoop Dogg, whose career spans more than 25 years. The album is also the first release from All The Time Entertainment, a label which Snoop launched to provide more opportunities for gospel music artists. Some of the biggest gospel artists of our time are headed West to pay tribute to four-time Grammy® Award-winning recording artist, Edwin Hawkins, who passed away January 15th. The Hawkins Family is staging a two-night “Celebration of Life” event that takes place Tuesday, February 6th and Wednesday, February 7th @7 PM each evening at the Harbor Light Church, Fremont, CA . The event will stream live on Facebook Iamedwinhawkins @ 7 PM PST/10 PM EST each night. Performing either night are Donnie McClurkin, Marvin Winans, Bebe Winans, Beverly Crawford, Anita Wilson, LaShun Pace, Ted Winn, Melonie Daniels-Walker, Chrystal Rucker, BSlade, Chrystal Rucker, Minister Carole King, Tibari and Bishop Yvette Flunder. Donald Lawrence is supervising the music and Edwin Hawkins’ music director, Derrick Hall, is the bandleader. Kurt Carr and Ricky Dillard are guest choir directors. Charles Jenkins & Fellowship Chicago, have dropped a hot new digital EP on the heels of their smash hit, “Grace.”The four-song set, “Grace: The Remixes” (Inspired People/Empire), features a new solo by Jenkins, two instrumentals and a fresh collaboration with celebrated vocalist, Kim Burrell. The EP is available at all major digital service providers. https://empire.lnk.to/GraceRemixes Grammy nominated and multiple Stellar Award winning Pastor William Murphy, III will host his next live recording, “Bridges”, March 1st in Atlanta. The live recording will be recorded at the dReam Center church of Atlanta, which Murphy pastors and will be produced by Kenneth and Tasha Cobbs Leonard. It is free and open to the public. ON March, 2, Murphy will host his second annual Demonstrate Conference. Demonstrate is two days of instruction and impartation to help bring back in to alignment what happens on Sunday mornings between the Pastor, Worship Leaders and Intercessors, as presented by some of the most renowned leaders in ministry. The U.S. Postal Service will honor legendary performer and civil rights activist Lena Horne on the 41st stamp in the Black Heritage stamp series. Tye Tribbett sits in with the Roots on THE TONIGHT SHOW Starring Jimmy Fallon Wednesday February 7, 2018 11:35 PM ET/10:35 CST on NBC. The Impact Network, the only African American owned and operated Christian television network in the United States, is now available on Altice USA's Optimum TV. The network features programming on urban ministries and gospel lifestyle entertainment. Alvin Love III is on top of the world after his first Grammy win, and what a big win! After years of coaxing his 12 time Grammy award-winning mother, CeCe Winans, to let him spear-head her new project, he finally received the green light. Love is the visionary behind the generation-bridging new album Let Them Fall in Love that took almost three years to complete. It was worth the wait because the project recently won two awards, Best Gospel Album and Best Gospel Performance/Song at the 60th Grammy Awards held at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Bounce will honor Black History Month in February with a compelling programming tribute; highlights include: *The 2018 Bounce Trumpet Awards, Sunday, February 11 at 9:00 p.m. ET hosted by actors Larenz Tate and Erica Ash. Ludacris, CeeLo Green, Cameo, Doug E. Fresh, Xscape, Bow Wow, Keke Wyatt and more gather to perform and to honor the outstanding accomplishments of African Americans *A special installment of the Bounce newsmagazine show Ed Gordon called "Am I Black Enough?" The award-winning journalist and series producer/host Gordon explores this interesting subject matter with influencers such as Samuel L. Jackson, Anthony Anderson, Wayne Brady, Yara Shahidi, Taye Diggs, Charlamagne Tha God, Misty Copeland, Boris Kodjoe and others. On Monday, Feb. 12,"Am I Black Enough?" will be available for streaming exclusively on Brown Sugar. Saturday, Feb. 17. *A new original short-form series of vignettes called "Your Story Matters" spotlighting the unique and inspiring experiences of trailblazing African Americans, including legendary actress, philanthropist and Brown Sugar spokeswoman Pam Grier, Academy Award®-winning actor and community activist Lou Gossett, Jr. and NASA engineer and 2018 Bounce Trumpet Award Honoree Dr. Lonnie Johnson. Bounce will also feature a variety of relevant movies throughout February including: Amistad, starring Morgan Freeman and Djimon Hounsou; the 2008 adaptation of A Raisin in the Sun featuring Phylicia Rashad, Sanaa Lathan, Sean Combs and Audra McDonald; Panther with Courtney B. Vance, Kadeem Hardison and Chris Rock; Ruby Bridges, Selma, Lord, Selma and more. TV One's premiere of the 49th Annual NAACP Image Awards hosted by Anthony Anderson was a Top 5 telecast on cable in its premiere time slot among African-American Households and also the #4 Most Watched telecast on TV One in the last two years (743K P2+). The premiere night reached 2 million unique viewers 2+ (Red Carpet, Image Award premiere and Image Awards encore #1) - also up from last year. Dr. F. James Clark, Senior Pastor ofThe Shalom Church (City of Peace) in St. Louis, MO and his young adult choir The NextGeneration Choirhave snagged two 2018 Stellar Gospel Music Award nominations. The NextGeneration Choir is up for New Artist of The Year and Contemporary Choir of the Year. The 2018 Stellar Gospel Music Awards show will be held March 24th in Las Vegas, NV with Dr. Clark and The NextGeneration choir in attendance and with visible performances during the awards week of exciting events and activities. tashafox_intvw.htm Jekalyn Carr's "You Will Win" top the charts this week landing at No. 1 on both Billboard's Gospel Airplay and MediaBase Gospel Airplay charts. This marks Jekalyn's second consecutive No.1 song at gospel radio ('You're Bigger). Pre-orders are available now for Jekalyn's forthcoming first book You Will Win: Inspirational Strategies To Help You Overcome (February 20). http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/jekalyncarr_intvw.htm From the hitmaker that introduced you to Casey J. with the No. 1 hit songs “Fill Me Up” and “I’m Yours” music executive Marquis Boone now introduces you to Fresh Start Worship. This pure and refreshing group of singers debut single “Mention” and is gaining traction and is impacting Gospel radio now. “Mention” is the lead single to the group’s selp title debut album. Two-Time GRAMMY winner Tye Tribbett is headed back to TV with a new Gospel Music Show. The singer is teaming up with TBN (Trinity Broadcasting Network) for the show Gospel Worship Experience which he will host alongside recording artist Javen. “We are partnering with TBN on a brand new show called the “Gospel Worship Experience,” states Tribbett, “Javen, along with myself, will be the host of this brand new show like no other.”The Gospel Worship Experience taping will feature special guests Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Travis Greene, Kierra Sheard and Anthony Brown who will be featured on the Orlando show at the Holy Land Experience Church of All Nations, January 29th. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com The acclaimed long-running series WOW GOSPEL is back, as the beloved collection delivers 30 top artists and hits with its latest installment, WOW GOSPEL 2018, available everywhere today! Gospel’s best-selling multi-artist album series, WOW GOSPEL celebrates 20 years since the release of the very first WOW GOSPEL 1998 collection, which debuted in January of that year. WOW GOSPEL is a joint venture from RCA Inspiration, Word Entertainment, and Motown Gospel, and includes a mix of features from award-winning trendsetters and rising artists. See review on http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/album_rvw.htm GRAMMY®-nominee and Stellar Award-winning quartet The Walls Group release their new single “And You Don’t Stop” to Gospel radio. “And You Don’t Stop” is featured on their third album, THE OTHER SIDE. The hit-making siblings (Darrel Walls, Rhea Walls, Alic “Paco” Walls, Ahjah Walls) have also, simultaneously, released a live performance video for “And You Don’t Stop”.Check out The Walls Group’s “And You Don’t Stop” video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oYpcZBy5k2 PJ Morton has released the official music video for "First Began” — nominated for Best R&B Song at this Sunday’s GRAMMYs. The video is a touching reflection on early marital bliss starring the Golden Globe-winning actor, Sterling Brown ('This Is Us') and his wife Ryan Brown, Tamera Mowry and husband Adam Housley, NAACP Image Award-winning actor Omari Hardwick and wife Jae Hardwick, gospel star Erica Campbell (Mary Mary) and her husband Warryn, and Morton’s wife, Kortni. Watch it on BET: https://www.bet.com/music/2018/01/24/pj-morton-first-began-video.html GRAMMY, Billboard and GMA Dove Award nominated and Stellar Award-winning 20-Year old millennial recording artist and evangelist Jekalyn Carr is hosting her first conference. The You Will Win Conference will take place June 21-22, 2018 in Southaven, MS at Brown Missionary Baptist Church. This conference will inspire individuals to succeed in ministry, business, the work-place and at home. Earnest Pugh's AT&T-sponsored single, “Be The Glow,” featuring Pugh, Fantasia, Monica, Fred Hammond, Marvin Sapp and others is rapidly climbing the charts. To further promote “Be The Glow,” Pugh will join Grammy® winner, Fantasia; Monica; and writer/producer, Keith Williams, for a Pre-Grammy Party with Primary Wave on Saturday, January 27 at Milk Studios in New York City. WLIB midday host, Liz Black, will host the star-studded “Be The Glow” event. Pugh will wrap the weekend with a special performance of “Survive” on the Bravo cable television network’s reality series, “The Real Housewives of Atlanta.” Pugh sang the song during a fundraiser for survivors of Hurricane Harvey and the show’s cast was there to participate. Multi-award winning singer-songwriter-producer team Natalie Grant and Bernie Herms will be presenters at the 60th Annual GRAMMY® Awards Premiere Ceremony on Sunday, January 28 live beginning at 3 p.m. EST. Watch the live stream at www.grammy.com. Collectively, the husband/wife team is nominated for three awards including Grant’s single “Clean,” for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song from her No. 1 debuting album Be One. Herms receives two as songwriter for “Oh My Soul,” recorded by Casting Crowns for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song and for his work as a producer Danny Gokey’s hit album Rise, for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album. Iyanla Vanzant, internationally acclaimed Spiritual Life Coach, New York Times Best-Selling Author, and Emmy-winning television personality, has partnered with Mills Entertainment to bring “Get Over It!: An Evening with Iyanla Vanzant,” a life-changing interactive production, live to stages across the country. In celebration of her 18th book, Get Over It! Thought Therapy for Healing the Hard Stuff (release date: February 6, 2018), Iyanla will travel to select cities on her first solo tour in 18 years. This national tour will bring the beloved thought leader up-close and in-person to her dedicated fans for a life-changing evening. Using the book as a teaching tool, Iyanla will introduce the spiritual principles behind thought therapy with love, humor, and her signature straight-talk. This interactive learning experience, filled with meditative moments and self-reflection will enable audience members to discover the habitual negative thought patterns that often block them from living their best lives. Select and willing audience members will be invited to join Iyanla on-stage to identify and address the hidden barriers that often sabotage the expression of their true light. These participants will gain a renewed sense of personal power and come one step closer to fulfilling their life’s destiny. The 2018 Bounce Trumpet Awards were held on Saturday, January 20, 2018 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta. The prestigious annual event celebrating African-American achievements and contributions will air exclusively on Bounce on Sunday, February 11 at 9:00 p.m. ET. The evening’s festivities were hosted by actors Larenz Tate and Erica Ash as celebrities, notable and esteemed guests from far and wide gathered to honor the outstanding accomplishments of African Americans and those who have succeeded against great odds and inspired success in others. Memorable moments and highlights of the event included: * A rousing musical tribute to So So Def Recordings Founder and honoree Jermaine Dupri which included performances by Anthony Hamilton, Bow Wow, Xscape and a surprise appearance by Ludacris that brought the house down. Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms joined for the presentation. * A crowd-pleasing tribute to honoree group Cameo featuring Doug E. Fresh, Big Daddy Kane, Carl Thomas, Stokley Williams, Bilal and Mr. Talkboxx performing a medley of Cameo hits including “Single Life,” “Sparkle,” “She’s Strange,” “Rigor Mortis,” “Word Up!” and “Candy.” CeeLo Green presented the group their Lifetime Achievement Award and then joined in for the closing number. * Thrilling performances by Arrested Development, Michel’le and Major. * Estelle, V. Bozeman and We’ McDonald with a powerful rendition of “Conqueror” to open the show. * Sir the Baptist performing “Heaven” joined by Keke Wyatt, Donald Lawrence and the Kevin Lemon & Higher Calling choir. * Honoree Rhyon Brown lighting up the stage with an energetic performance of her hit single “After Party.” * Angie Stone, Lamman Rucker, Omar Gooding and Angell Conwell appearing as presenters, and more. The NFL Sanctioned Super Bowl Gospel Celebration (SBGC) will kick-off Super Bowl 52 with its 19th Annual star-studded music jubilation live taping on a new day, Thursday, February 1, 2018, at the Benson Great Hall at Bethel University in St. Paul, Minnesota. The annual event joins together key NFL Players, top Gospel/Contemporary Christian and mainstream GRAMMY® Award-winning artists and special guests all on one stage Snoop Dogg will perform and Joining him on stage will be Faith Evans, Tye Tribbett, The Clark Sisters and Rance Allen. Erica Campbell, Shelia E, Donnie McClurkin and The Sounds Of Blasckness will also perform. On the heels of earning a 2018 Stellar Award nomination for Contemporary Duo/Group Chorus of the Year, sibling group The Showers has released the official lyric video to their digital single “LOVE” featuring talented vocalist Keyondra Lockett. “LOVE,” is written by Titus Showers and produced by Tasha Page-Lockhart and Sean Keys. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrMuFqwn5fA The Stellar Gospel Music Award winning online radio station, SOAR Radio, and the founder of Sun Wise Media, Ri- Karlo Handy, have announced the 2nd Annual Soar Radio Gospel Music Awards. The program will go down Monday, April 9, 2018 @ 7:00 PM at The Coronado Performing Arts Center, Rockford, IL. The show will feature performances honoring pioneers from all genres of gospel music. The hosts for evening will be multi-award winning producer, Donald Lawrence and Michelle Williams, of Destiny’s Child fame. Beverly Crawford will receive the Legend Award. Sister act, Virtue, will earn the Milestone Award. Singer/Producer, J. Moss, is receiving the Pioneer Award. The multi-talented Vashawn Mitchell will be honored with the Trailblazer Award and Bishop Hezekiah Walker will take home the Gospel Icon Award. The Rev. Wyatt Tee Walker, a leader in the civil rights movement who helped the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. assemble his famous "Letter From Birmingham Jail," has died. He was either 88 or 89. Family records showed different years of birth, said his daughter, Patrice Walker Powell, who confirmed his death. Powell said her father died Tuesday morning at an assisted living facility in Chester, Virginia. She said he had been in declining health the past few years after a stroke. Walker was a key player in the civil rights movement, brought in by King to be the executive director of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference three years after the civil rights organization was founded. KAREW Entertainment, is excited to announce two Stellar Gospel Music Award nominations for GEI and it's #1 song, "Hang On." The label celebrates double nominations for first time nominees GEI. GEI picked up a nominations for Contemporary Choir of the Year andSong of the Year for "Hang On." Stellar Award winning recording artist Lucinda Moore has done it again with her dynamic single, "Walking In My Favor." The bouncy, melodic rhythm of the song follows Moore's long-standing style of festive contemporary gospel music. Moore has been nominated for Contemporary Female Vocalist of the Year for the 2018 Stellar Gospel Music Awards. Greenleaf Soundtrack: Volume 2, garner accolades, taking home the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Gospel/Christian Album (Traditional or Contemporary) at the 49th NAACP Image Awards, as well as a nomination for the upcoming March 2018 Stellar Gospel Music Awards. Nominated for the Stellar Awards’ Special Event CD of the Year, the acclaimed collection from Season 2 of the hit OWN (Oprah Winfrey Network) series Greenleaf, features songs from Kirk Franklin, Le’Andria Johnson, Jekalyn Carr, Koryn Hawthorne, Deborah Joy Winans, Mavis Staples, and more. Jason Nelson has launched the official music video for his latest single “Forever,” the new song from his upcoming fifth solo album, The Answer. The video clip captures Nelson’s invigorating live performance of the song, which showcases his celebrated vocal and musical gifts. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnVFe_J2zfI Kelontae Gavin the 18 Year Old Multi-faceted millennial worship leader, earned his first-ever Stellar Award nomination in the category of “Youth Project of the Year” for his November 2016 debut EP release “Higher” The Celebration of Life will happen Feburary 6 and February 7 at the Harbor Light Church 7 PM nightly in Fremont, CA for Edwin Hawkins, the for-time Grammy Award winning leader of The Edwin Hawkins Singers' 1969 millionseller, "Oh Happy Day," died January 15th at his home in the Bay area, after a bout with pancreatric cancer. He was 74. A church destroyed. A congregation silenced. A relationship shattered. Yet even in life's darkest valleys, a small flame can light the way toward healing and hope After a deadly fire rips through St. James Church, Hadleigh University leaders use the tragedy to push the congregation off campus, forcing the church to defend its rights and bringing together estranged brothers for a reunion that opens old wounds and forces them to address the issues that pulled them apart In theaters nationwide March 30, 2018, GOD'S NOT DEAD: ALIGHT IN DARKNESS is a powerful reminder that in all circumstances, we are called to be a light for Jesus to a world in desperate need of hope. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GCxVCrH4J0U Legendary record label Blackberry Records has announced the signing of talented female vocalist Keyla Richardson, announced by Doug Williams, President of Blackberry Records. The label is gearing up to release Richardson's debut single, “Believe,” slated to hit all digital and streaming outlets March 2018. Sibling group, The Showers earned their second Stellar Award nomination . The Showers garnered a nod in the category of Contemporary Duo/Chorus Group of the Year for their budding sophomore independent project THE JOURNEY. The 33rd Annual Stellar Awards will be taped March 24 in Las Vegas, NV and will be televised nationally on TV One Network. Bryan Popin earned his first ever Stellar Award nomination for Traditional CD of the Year for his best-selling independent project I GOT OUT. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Tavis Smiley, in partnership with Mills Entertainment announce the initial dates for the nationwide tour of DEATH OF A KING: A LIVE THEATRICAL EXPERIENCE. This multi-media stage presentation of Smiley’s best-selling book, Death of A King: The Real Story of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Final Year commemorates the upcoming 50th anniversary of King’s death. The widely-anticipated tour, sponsored by Walmart, will launch on Dr. King’s birthday, January 15, 2018 at the Kings Theater in Brooklyn, New York. Anthony Brown & group therAPy received 10 Stellar Award nominations this year, the most by any artist. Those nominations are: Artist of the Year, CD of the Year, Contemporary CD of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, Contemporary Male Vocalist of the Year, Group/Duo of the Year and Contemporary Group/Duo of the Year. Brown’s 2017 powerful single “Trust In You”made earned him a nomination for Song of the Year and Urban/Inspirational Single / Performance of the Year. Brown is also nominated along with the producers of A LONG WAY FROM SUNDAY,Justin Savage, Dana T. Sorey, Warryn Campbell and Darryl Woodson, in the Producer of the Year category. RCA Inspiration heralds a cross section of nominations for the upcoming 33rd Annual Stellar Awards Garnering 18 Stellar Award nominations for 2018, RCA Inspiration’s nominations cover 17 categories including Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, Albertina Walker Female Vocalist of the Year, and CD of the Year. Travis Greene garnering 9 nominations, Marvin Sapp garnering 4 Stellar Award nominations, Le’Andria Johnson garnering 2 Stellar Award nominations. Koryn Hawthorne, garners 2 Stellar Award nominations and the,Greenleaf Soundtrack: Volume 2, rounds out the list with 1 nomination. RCA Inspiration 2018 Stellar Awards Nominations: TRAVIS GREENE – CROSSOVER: LIVE FROM MUSIC CITY ARTIST OF THE YEAR SONG OF THE YEAR – “You Waited” MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR CD OF THE YEAR – Crossover: Live from Music City PRODUCER OF THE YEAR – Crossover: Live from Music City CONTEMPORARY MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR CONTEMPORARY CD OF THE YEAR – Crossover: Live from Music City URBAN/INSPIRATIONAL SINGLE OR PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR – “You Waited” PRAISE AND WORSHIP CD OF THE YEAR – Crossover: Live from Music City MARVIN SAPP – CLOSE MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR TRADITIONAL MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR TRADITIONAL CD OF THE YEAR – Close RECORDED MUSIC PACKAGING OF THE YEAR – Close LE’ANDRIA JOHNSON – BIGGER THAN ME ALBERTINA WALKER FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR TRADITIONAL FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR KORYN HAWTHORNE – KORYN HAWTHORNE EP NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR CONTEMPORARY FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR GREENLEAF SOUNDTRACK: VOLUME 2 SPECIAL EVENT CD OF THE YEAR The Festival of Praise Tour with Grammy, Stellar and Dove Award-winning Fred Hammond is coming back for the 4th time! The Festival of Praise Tour promises to be an evening of soul-stirring music which will feature Fred Hammond, Donnie McClurkin, Take 6, James Fortune and Charles Jenkins. Get Ready for the tour to hit a city near you. Grammy & Stellar Award winner Brent Jones to give a Live Recording on Sat, Feb 10, 2018 at the Victorious Life Church in Waco, TX. Johnny Sanders to release “It’s Well with My Soul” a powerful and inspiring new song. A masterfully produced selection featuring urban, rhythmic music with a hint of a retro, classic sound. Adrian Dove, President and CEO, Kingdom Day Parade announces the 33rd Annual Kingdom Day Parade on Monday, January 15, 2018 @ 10 AM in Los Angeles, CA. The three 3-Mile parade route begins at Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd & Western Avenue, traveling west, south and on Crenshaw to Vernon Ave, and ending at Leimert Park. ABC-7, will broadcast the entire 2 Hour Parade Live from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The Kingdom Day Parade honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and has grown into the largest and longest running King Annual Birthday Celebration in the nation! 2018 would have been Dr. King’s 89th birthday and is also the 50th Anniversary of his untimely Homegoing. This years’ theme is “When They Go Low, We Go High”. Tavis Smiley, in partnership with Mills Entertainment announce the initial dates for the nationwide tour of DEATH OF A KING: A LIVE THEATRICAL EXPERIENCE. This multi-media stage presentation of Smiley’s best-selling book, Death of A King: The Real Story of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Final Year commemorates the upcoming 50th anniversary of King’s death. The tour, sponsored by Walmart, will launch on Dr. King’s birthday, January 15, 2018 at the Kings Theater in Brooklyn, New York. Smiley narrates this joyful tribute that tells the little-known story of Dr. King’s final year. Motown Gospel recording artist Tasha Cobbs Leonard kicks off the New Year with a special performance of her popular hit song “I’m Getting Ready” on Good Morning America on Thursday, January 4, 2018. The top-rated national morning show airs on ABC at 7:00am EST. “I’m Getting Ready” has been generating buzz since Cobbs Leonard’s smash performance on BET’s Black Girls Rock. It was announced today that Bishop IV Hilliard will elevate his daughter, Dr. Irishea Hilliard to Senior Pastor and President of New Light Church World Outreach and Worship Centers Church Division in Houston TX. In an exciting move for the ministry, Bishop Hilliard will turn over the pastoral leadership to Dr. Irishea in the New Year. Provident Label Group/Sony Music Entertainment artist Tauren Wells has had quite a memorable year. From touring with Lionel Richie, to releasing his debut solo effort "Hills and Valleys" and the success of the album’s self-titled debut single. Wells is wrapping up his 2017 by receiving two GRAMMY® nominations. Recognized for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album (Hills and Valleys) and the single. There are three anointed voices that balance in effervescent harmony and illuminate the radiant sound of light and love. Zebrina Anderson, Nikeisha Whittier and Sarah Benibo are those three anointed voices of the St. Louis based Christian music trio God’s Chosen (GC3). GC3 has been signed to Nashville, TN based G. Favored Entertainment Group. The Dynamic Trio GOD’S CHOSEN Release Official Lyric Video To Their Spirit Invigorating Single “Grace Is Running” PAJAM announced the signing of internet singing sensation Yael Hilton (means “God’s Strength”) today. An accomplished singer, Yael has shared the stage with some of gospel music’s most influential. The accomplished singer is now prepared to make her mark as a solo artist under the direction of Paul “PDA” Allen and J Moss (“PAJAM”). Music fans recently packed the AT&T Store of the Future in New York City to get a first listen of the seasonal inspirational song “Be the Glow,” and meet one of the featured artists and song ambassadors: Earnest Pugh. AT&T® assembled some of the top names in Gospel and Urban music to record “Be the Glow” over the Thanksgiving holiday. Earnest Pugh, Fred Hammond and Marvin Sapp recorded live in a Los Angeles-based studio, while Fantasia, Monica and Romeo recorded their parts from South Carolina, New York and Hawaii, respectively. The result is an uplifting anthem that will leave a lasting impression on the heart far beyond this holiday season. Grammy® Award-Winning Recording Artist Tamela Mann and her husband, NAACP Image Award-Winning Actor and Comedian David Mann, are celebrating a banner 2017 with record attendances at their Mann's World Family Tour, No. 1 singles, accolades for Tamela's Billboard No. 1 selling album One Way and Billboard year end chart honors. Adding to the list of reasons they are thankful this year, David, Tamela and the rest of the Mann family are privileged to receive an NAACP Image Award nomination for their hit docu-series The Manns (TV One). Marvin Sapp’s name was nominated for the 60th annual Grammy Awards, as well as the 49th NAACP Image Awards. The “preacher who happens to sing” is also on the first-round ballot of the Stellar Gospel Music Awards. Sapp’s GRAMMY® nomination is for Best Gospel Album, and he is nominated for Outstanding Gospel/Christian Album for the 49th NAACP Image Awards. This marks his 11th GRAMMY® nomination, and his fourth NAACP Image Award nomination. Both nods are in recognition of his 11th album, Close, which was released September 29th on Verity Records. Close delivered Sapp’s fifth consecutive #1 album debut. Keith "Wonderboy" Johnson the stirring Grammy and Dove nominated singer has been the recipient of three Stellar Awards. Keith closes out a triumphant 2017 in the Top 30 of Billboard's Gospel charts. His latest single is currently #27 on Mediabase and has been on the charts for five consecutive weeks. In February 2018, Shanachie Entertainment will release his label debut Keep Pushin. first-time-ever nationwide Mortgage Seminar Church Tour. The founder and senior pastor of the Love Fellowship Tabernacle Churches, Bishop Hezekiah Walker becomes the Brand Ambassador for LOANS FROM LISA TV One rings in the spirit of Christmas with the world premiere of "Miss Me This Christmas," premiering Sunday, December 3 at 7 p.m. ET . Miss Me This Christmas, starring Erica Ash (Jean of the Joneses, Survivor's Remorse), Redaric Williams (The Quad, Young and the Restless), Eva Marcille (Real Housewives of Atlanta, America's Next Top Model), Allen Maldonado (Black-ish, Ringside) and Nathan Davis Jr. (Detroit), is the story of "perfect couple" Regina (Ash) and Franklin (Williams). The pair celebrated a fairytale Christmas wedding three years ago and seemed to have it all. Yet, now their marriage is on the rocks. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nzsa7TtgQaw&feature=youtu.be G.I.'s new hit single “We Win!” is #1 this week on Billboard Gospel Airplay’s “Most Added Songs” Chart, as well as Billboard Gospel Airplay’s “Most Increased Plays” Chart. Additionally, “We Win” landed at #22 on Mediabase’s Gospel Airplay Chart and #24 on Billboard Gospel Airplay’s Chart this week. TV One rings in the spirit of Christmas with the world premiere of You Can't Fight Christmas, premiering Sunday, December 10 at 7 p.m. ET. You Can't Fight Christmas stars Brély Evans (Being Mary Jane, Born Again Virgin), Andra Fuller (Here We Go Again, Black Jesus), Persia White (Girlfriends), Richard Gant (The Mindy Project) and Marla Gibbs (227). The story begins with the annual holiday decorating of the Chesterton Hotel by interior design expert Leslie Major (Evans). She is hard at work managing the transformation when she meets and develops a crush on the hotel owner's handsome grandson, Edmund James (Fuller). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6z__6xgAoE&feature=youtu.be TV One congratulates its 6 nominees for the 49th NAACP Image Awards, announced today by NAACP. When Love Kills: The Falicia Blakely Story received two nominations in the categories of "Outstanding Television Movie, Limited - Series or Dramatic Special" and "Outstanding Writing in a Television Movie or Special." Both News One Now and Unsung are nominated in the category of "Outstanding News/Information (Series or Special)". TV One's reality show, The Manns, picked up a nomination for "Outstanding Reality Program/Reality Competition Series" and Roland Martin earned a nomination for "Outstanding Host in a Talk or New/Information (Series or Special)." The two-hour live TV special will air on TV One on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, Monday, January 15, 2018 and include a one-hour live red carpet pre-show. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas as TV One celebrates the holidays with a programming slate of original movies, specials and marathons to bring in the holiday cheer. Kicking off the holiday season is the premiere of The Best of Gospel Superfest Holiday, on Sunday, Nov. 19 at 7 p.m. ET. Then its the world premieres of independent movies Miss Me This Christmas on Sunday, Dec. 3, 7 pm ET and You Can't Fight Christmas Sunday, Dec. 10, 7 p.m. ET. Next, TV One will host a movie marathon on Thanksgiving Thursday, Nov. 23, starting 9:30 a.m. ET. Features include A Royal Family Holiday, A Royal Family Christmas, Downsized, Hear No Evil and the TV One premiere of Jumping the Broom. Additionally, on Thanksgiving Weekend, Friday, Nov. 24 and Saturday, Nov. 25, TV One will run a marathon of family favorites. The lineup includes Unsung: Hollywood, A Different World, The Cosby Show and Good Times. The holiday weekend will conclude on Sunday, Nov. 26 with a marathon of The Jeffersons, TV One rings in the spirit of Christmas with the world premieres of two new holiday movies: Miss Me This Christmas, premiering Sunday, December 3 at 7 p.m. ET and You Can't Fight Christmas, premiering Sunday, December 10 at 7 p.m. ET. Both movies are set at the fictional Chesterton Hotel. A classic landmark, the Chesterton serves as the epicenter of a small town's annual Christmas celebration. Miss Me This Christmas, starring Erica Ash, Redaric Williams, Eva Marcille, Allen Maldonado and Nathan Davis Jr., is the story of "perfect couple" Regina (Ash) and Franklin (Williams). The pair celebrated a fairytale Christmas wedding three years ago and seemed to have it all. Yet, now their marriage is on the rocks. When Franklin comes home at dawn after a night of partying with colleagues, Regina thinks he has cheated on her with his ex-girlfriend. Though Franklin denies it, the trust has been broken. The couple separates and the divorce is set to be finalized on their three-year anniversary. An exclusive first-look teaser trailer is available today for the thrilling new film PAUL, APOSTLE OF CHRIST, which brings to vivid life on screen the epic story of the man who went from persecutor of the church to its most powerful and important proponent. The ‘first-look’ teaser shows both the dramatic heart and biblical authenticity of PAUL, THE APOSTLE OF CHRIST,” Director and Screenwriter Andrew Hyatt said. “Each aspect of Paul’s life is based on what we know from the Bible, and we set that true story in the perilous world of Rome in the time of Nero’s persecution of Christians. It’s a captivating, emotional drama that brings the Bible to life.” VIEW TEASER TRAILER: https://youtu.be/T_Cbyl6ykhw Bill Moss, Jr. Releases New Single "Your Will" a calibration between Bill Moss, Jr. and his younger brother and Grammy Award Winning producer J Moss. This track has been dubbed a reunion of The Moss Brothers, "Your Will" provides just a glimpse into what eager fans can expect from this awesome duo in the near future. Chart-toppers The Walls Group have created another #1 hit on their hands, as the GRAMMY®-nominated and two-time Stellar Award-winners celebrate a #1 debut on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums Chart for their new album THE OTHER SIDE (Fo Yo Soul/RCA Inspiration). Their album is also a hit in Gospel album streaming in its first week of release, garnering over 883,000 first week streams. TV One rings in the spirit of Christmas with the world premieres of two new holiday movies: Miss Me This Christmas, premiering Sunday, December 3 at 7 p.m. ET and You Can't Fight Christmas, premiering Sunday, December 10 at 7 p.m. ET. Both movies are set at the fictional Chesterton Hotel. A classic landmark, the Chesterton serves as the epicenter of a small town's annual Christmas celebration. Miss Me This Christmas, starring Erica Ash, Redaric Williams, Eva Marcille, Allen Maldonado and Nathan Davis Jr., is the story of "perfect couple" Regina (Ash) and Franklin (Williams). The pair celebrated a fairytale Christmas wedding three years ago and seemed to have it all. Yet, now their marriage is on the rocks. When Franklin comes home at dawn after a night of partying with colleagues, Regina thinks he has cheated on her with his ex-girlfriend. Though Franklin denies it, the trust has been broken. The couple separates and the divorce is set to be finalized on their three-year anniversary. Respected pastor, a highly sought after health practitioner, talented musician, a radio talk show host on health and author, Dr. Leonard Scott recently released his 3rd and latest book, 'The Ultimate Boost from Within: 31 Days to Health, Wealth, Wholeness and Happiness.' Combining his many years of experience both in the health industry and in his ministry endeavors, Dr. Leonard Scott has put together much of his insights and learnings in attaining health, wellbeing and happiness in his new book. This book, published in 2017, reveals ways on how your own efforts or actions can work for you and your overall health and wellbeing to help you: Larenz Tate and Erica Ash will host the 2018 Bounce Trumpet Awards, an exciting night of inspiration, history and crowd-rousing performances celebrating African-American achievements and contributions. The gala black-tie ceremony will be held at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, Georgia on Sat. Jan. 20, 2018 and will world premiere nationwide on Bounce on Sun. Feb. 11 at 9:00 p.m. ET. The 33rd Annual Stellar Awards are set to introduce to two new events: The Quartet Showcase Competition and the Independent Artist Showcase Competition during Stellar Awards Weekend 2018. Reba McEntire will hosts “CMA Country Christmas” for the first time Monday, Nov. 27, 8/7c on the ABC Television Network. Kelsea Ballerini, Luke Bryan, CB30, Dan + Shay, Brett Eldredge, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, Dustin Lynch, CeCe Winans, Trisha Yearwood and Chris Young are the first wave of performers announced for the eighth annual broadcast, held this year at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville. Reba also will perform a piece from her new Nash Icon album, My Kind of Christmas. The newly packaged album follows last year’s limited release and includes collaborations with Vince Gill and Amy Grant, Lauren Daigle, Darius Rucker and Kelly Clarkson and Trisha Yearwood. The show will have a new look and feel this year. Tom Joyner announced on his show that guests aboard the 2018 Tom Joyner Foundation Fantastic Voyage will be treated to an exclusive Evening With Anita Baker. The eight-time Grammy Award winner will honor radio pioneer Tom Joyner by performing live aboard his annual benefit cruise sailing April 29 - May 6, 2018. Anita Baker's performance will be a highlight on the cruise as we well as part of a celebration of Joyner's 25 years in syndication. As the most groundbreaking entertainment cruise, the charitable endeavor is known for featuring over 60 entertainers and comedy acts along with daily empowering seminars, theme nights, morning inspiration, concerts, shopping, beach parties, fitness, late night after-parties, parades and a cavalcade of celebrities celebrating Tom Joyner's efforts to assist students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities. With the support of husband, baseball legend Gary Sheffield, “Sheffield Real Estate” follows Grammy-nominated gospel singer, DeLeon Sheffield and her family as she manages her fast-growing real estate business, all while raising a family. DeLeon and her outspoken business partner and mother Debbie, help upscale clients find their dream home in the Tampa Bay area of Florida. As a wife, mother to three young boys, and co-owner of a busy and bustling luxury real estate agency, balancing family and a successful career is no easy feat. However, DeLeon handles the chaos with poise, strength and definitely some laughs along the way! In the premiere, airing Thursday, November 30 at 10pm ET/PT, professional poker player, John and fiancé Monique are looking for a home to start a family. With John’s party lifestyle and Monique’s family friendly visions, the house hunt gets tricky. Then at 10:30pm ET/ PT, full-time, professional musicians, Kim and Aaron are looking for a funky, mid-century home with room for a studio. Phillip Carter, is providing two projects just for the choir music lover. Carter provides something melodic to ring in the holidays with a brand new Christmas project "Christmas with Phillip Carter & SOV." Created with the choir director in mind, Carter provides new sacred music for Christmas. In addition to the seasonal release, he is also releasing another CD "Brandon J. Felder Presents The Largo High School Choir: Rejoice: A Celebration of Music. " Delivering Christmas favorites along with great Gospel music for every season, the CD showcases the award-winning choir from Prince George’s County, Maryland, under the direction of Brandon J. Felder. Both releases are currently available on digital music outlets. Police are now investigating a deadly shooting at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, where multiple people were killed and numerous people were injured in the Sunday morning shooting. According to report, “a man walked into the church and opened fire inside the Texas church around 11:30am local time. Police say in this small community 26 people were killed during the morning service. Nearby neighbors also say they heard at least 20 shots fired in the area during the time of the shooting. The shooter was later killed after a brief chase just north of the church community in Guadalupe County. It was unclear if the shooter a white male, possibly in his twenties was killed by police or if he took his own life. Let's keep the community of Sutherland Springs, Texas in our prayers. Under Bishop Jerry L. Maynard, The Tennessee 4th Mass Choir are set to release their sophomore project EXCITEMENT OF PRAISE Friday, November 10th in-stores and on all digital outlets. Recorded live in Memphis, TN, the effort is bridging the contemporary praise and worship rhythms of today’s music with songs such as "The Report" and "Great God" with the traditional anointing of old-time church found in the tune "Thank You Jesus," it serves as a solid reminder of God’s grace, goodness, and love for all those who take a listen. The choir's lead single "God's Been So Good to Me" is moving up the charts fast. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Reverend Al Sharpton's NAN LA Chapter in partnership with Lord, Bush & Randolph, LLC (LB&R) present “2017 Vanguard Awards” honoring Los Angeles’ 100 Most Influential African Americans. The event will be held Thursday, November 9, 2017 at the California African American Museum, Los Angeles, CA. Honorees are Judge Greg Mathis receiving the Vanguard Lifetime Achievement Award, 35th District Senator Steve Bradford, Mervyn R. Dynally Award of Excellence, Pastor Kelvin Sauls, Holman United Methodist Church will receive the Al Sharpton Social Justice Award, Wendy Dean, Wendy Gladney Enterprises, the Harold E. Hambrick Entrepreneur Award, Dr. Soraya Coley, President, Cal Poly-Pomona, the Dr. George McKenna Excellence in Education Award, Celeste Alleyne, Director, Corporate Citizenship, Microsoft, the Corporate Citizenship Award, Clifton Moseley, Chairman, NSN LA and Faye Moseley, Exec. Deputy Director of Admin Access, LA, the LA’s Power Couple Award and Khloe Thompson, Khloe Kares, the Junior Social Justice Award. J.J. Hairston, has been chosen to launch an all-new syndicated radio show. "Youthful Praise with J.J. Hairston." The show will air Saturdays (12p-2p EST) on Rejoice Musical Soul Food in over 50 markets and will be available for listeners worldwide at www.rejoicemusicalsoulfood.com beginning this Saturday. The all-new "Youthful Praise with J.J. Hairston" will feature gospel music including new and upcoming artists, inspirational moments, Amazing Love (moments about relationships with J.J. and Trina Hairston), news, and fan favorites segments. Get ready for the Houston Gospel Announcers Guild (HGAG) inaugural HGAG Music Video and Film Festival on the campus of Texas Southern University Houston, TX.. It will go down at the Barbara Jordan- Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs Building Friday, November 17 – Saturday, November 18, 2017. The HGAG Music Video and Film Festival (HGAGMVFF) debuts as a celebration of the robust, creative and emerging nexus of local and national faith based, independent film and music video producers. It will offer a showcasing of quality, Christ-centered, inspiring original works produced by creative, passionate independent movie, music producers and visual storytellers. Today TV One announced production of the original film, Down For Whatever, the 2017 American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Screenplay winning project written by Tim Folsome who will also direct. Production will begin today in Atlanta, Georgia. The film, starring LeToya Luckett (Greenleaf), Hosea Chanchez (The Game), Bre-Z (Empire) and Imani Hakim (Everybody Hates Chris), is slated to premiere at the 2018 ABFF in June and will premiere on TV One in July. Down For Whatever chronicles Tracy, a young successful doctor and her detective husband, Mike. When Mike suddenly loses his partner in a senseless cop-killing, Tracy is there to support him. That is, until she receives an unexpected visit from a social worker who informs her that the ruthless killers suspected in the murder are her biological sisters, Denise and Sonya. OWN’s long-running, NAACP Image Award-winning docu-series “Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s” featuring soul food entrepreneur Miss Robbie Montgomery, her son Tim Norman and their exuberant family returns to OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network on Saturday, November 25 at 9 p.m. ET/PT for its fifth season. The series follows the fun-loving, musical Montgomery family through their highs and lows as they work to expand their soul food empire. On an all-new season Miss Robbie and Tim attempt to mend their mother/son relationship by dividing the family business. Tim heads to Houston to rebound by opening up a new, full-service restaurant, while continuing his relationship with reality star Jennifer Williams – who puts on the pressure to get engaged. Charles and Chloe leave Los Angeles and strap on their cowboy boots to follow Tim to the Lone Star State, while he also brings Monique down from St. Louis to manage the bar and live entertainment. Just as the Houston restaurant seems to find its groove, Hurricane Harvey hits. Kingdom Girls Rock! will host its first annual awards show on Friday, November 3, 2017 at The Believers House Atlanta, GA. The first awards show of its kind, Kingdom Girls Rock! honors women of the faith who positively influence lives and make a difference in their communities and across the globe. Confirmed guests and honorees include: Pastor Kimberly Jones Pothier (Real Talk Kim), Evelyn Braxton, Cora Jake-Coleman, Trina Hairston, Y'Anna Crawely and Celebrity Stylist Tierra Blount. RCA Inspiration celebrates Travis Greene's #1 hit single “You Waited,” which tops the latest Gospel Airplay Chart. The lead single from his #1 Gospel album Crossover: Live from Music City, “You Waited” marks the third chart-topping single on the Gospel Airplay Chart from the GRAMMY®-nominated, multi-Stellar Award winner, following on his #1 hits “Intentional” and “Made A Way” off his previous #1 Gospel album The Hill. CeCe Winans is set to receive the Spirit Award at the 20th Annual First Ladies High Tea held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel Saturday, November 11, 2017. Others being honored include 37th District Congresswoman Karen Bass, actress Wendy Raquel Robinson and First Ladies who have served their communities well, through their activism and charitable contributions. The First Lady Honorees include: Regina Taylor (Park Windsor Baptist Church), Morgen Wilbourne (Pacific Crossroads Church), Patricia Swancy (Peace Apostolic Church) and Cynthia Buelna (Restauracion Total Church). Dr. Bobby Jones and Dr. Beverly “BAM” Crawford will return as Co-Hosts. Melba Moore, Tony Award Winning Singer & Actress, headlines a benefit concert for the Caribbean featuring R&B and Caribbean artists who come together to sing, speak out and raise funds and awareness for Hurricane Relief In the U.S. Virgin Islands and other parts of the Caribbean. BET today announced Erykah Badu, a four-time Grammy-award winning, will return to Las Vegas for the third time, to host, write and produce BET Presents: 2017 Soul Train Awards. BET also announced a star-studded lineup of performances by Toni Braxton, SWV, Tamar Braxton, 112, Tank and Kirk Franklin. It will be filmed on November 5th at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, BET Presents: 2017 Soul Train Awards will air on BET and BET HER on November 26th, 2017 at 8PM ET. Multi-platinum and seven-time Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter, artist, actress and producer Toni Braxton will receive the coveted Don Cornelius Legend Award and Grammy Award-Nominated, multi-platinum, female R&B trio SWV will be honored with the third annual Lady of Soul Award. The all-star nominees for the 2017 Soul Train Awards span across 12 different categories. Solange leads the roster with seven total nominations including Best R&B/Soul Female Artist, and the highly coveted Video of the Year and Song of the Year for hit single “Cranes in the Sky.” Bruno Mars follows with six total nominations including two nominations for Song of the Year for his hit single “That’s What I Like,” and Album/Mixtape of the Year for “24K Magic.” DJ Khaled, Rihanna and Bryson Tiller also received multiple nominations this year including Video of the Year, Song of the Year and Best Collaboration. The next generation of soul is also being recognized, including Khalid and SZA, who are multi-nominees across categories including Best New Artist, Best R&B/Soul Male Artist, Best R&B/Soul Female Artist, Best Collaboration and the Ashford & Simpson Songwriter’s Award. Patti LaBelle, announced the release of Patti LaBelle and Friends - Home for the Holidays. Available on CD, as well as digital and streaming outlets, the album will be released on Friday, November 24, 2017, with pre-orders beginning on October 27th on iTunes and Amazon. The fourteen-song collection features LaBelle with Vivian Green (“My Favorite Things”), Ruben Studdard (“Let It Snow”), Tamela Mann (“Jesus King!”) and piano virtuoso, Jamar Jones (“Brazilian Sleigh Bells”). Other traditional holiday and spiritual songs including “Mary, Did You Know?” “The Christmas Song” and “Avé Maria”. In addition to the new album, LaBelle is still promoting her first jazz album, Bel Hommage out May 2017. The second season of Patti LaBelle’s Place, will return on theCooking Channel on November. Deitrick Haddon drops new single "Glory" and the video. https://getuperica.com/53953/deitrick-haddon-glory-new-music-video/ On Saturday, November 18th, Percy E. Gray, Jr. will be honored during his 60th Birthday Celebration at Freedom Temple Church of God in Christ, Chicago, Illinois The 60th Birthday Celebration will include music performances by, Chicago Mass Choir, New Direction, Joshua's Troop, Tony Tidwell and UnCommon Favor and more. Percy E. Gray Jr. is a Stellar Award Winner and Grammy and Dove Nominee, and most sought after, singer, songwriter and producer, has a growing list of impressive credits in the gospel community that include gospel greats such as the late Milton Brunson, Jessie Dixon, Albertina Walker, Rev. Clay Evans, the late Orlando Draper, Beverly Crawford, Mississippi Mass Choir, Shirley Caesar, Dorinda Clark, New Direction, The Chicago Mass Choir and Joshua’s Troop just to name a few. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com A Black Tie Celebration and Documentary Premier of Rodnie Bryant: A Voice, A Sound, A Purpose featuring The Christian Community Mass Choir. It's the 7th Annual Indianapolis Legends Awards Ceremony at the Indiana Landmarks Center in Indianapolis. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Deitrick Haddon is revered for pointing listeners to God with infectious beats that grab the listener, while grabbing their heart. “Glory” the new single is a stand out track from “Deitrick Haddon & Hill City Worship Camp”. Contemporary Gospel artist, Dale Anthony is on a mission to sing and serve wherever God leads - releasing his sophomore album CLOSER, available October 24th on all digital outlets. Following the success of his 2012 debut album ‘The Faith Out Loud Project’, Dale and his ensemble began to use their time and talent to address issues of gun violence, and and homelessness throughout the Bay Area. Their monthly ‘Faith Out Loud Friday’ activations, included food distribution, prayer, free haircuts, and connecting other service projects throughout the Bay Area region. The 15-track album is full of energetic and meaningful music that speaks to the depths of today’s challenges. Produced by Yaahn Hunter, Jr., the project features Earnest Pugh, the late Thomas "TC" Clay, Dasha Moore, Duane Lynn, Ashlee Young, Sanara Pippins, and Quintin Cooper. SAME KIND OF DIFFERENT AS ME, the first joint film partnership between Paramount Pictures and Pure Flix, is releasing in theaters on October 20, 2017. The film stars Academy Award® nominee Greg Kinnear, Academy Award winner Renée Zellweger, Academy Award nominee Djimon Hounsou, and Academy Award winner Jon Voight. www.samekindofdifferentasmemovie.com. Tasha Page-Lockhart’s highly anticipated album,THE BEAUTIFUL PROJECT is available everywhere. This is the sophomore effort from the former BET Sunday Best champion, Stellar Award winner and Detroit native. Featuring the lead single, “Over and Over,” THE BEAUTIFUL PROJECT not only showcases Page-Lockhart’s stunning vocals, but her songwriting and production talents as well. The NextGeneration Ministry is specifically gaining national attention through music. Dr. Clark's NextGeneration Choir released their debut album SURE. CENTERED. FOCUSED. earlier this year with the album landing on the Top Gospel Albums chart at #3, peaking at #1 and remaining in the top 40 for numerous weeks. These dynamic young voices are releasing their second radio single "Cry Out" featuring lead vocals by Crystal Gill. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5cACDLDOhI&feature=youtu.be On Thursday, TV One co-sponsored United Way of the National Capital Area's (United Way NCA) Third Annual Project Homeless Connect, an event created to help the more than 500 area residents experiencing homelessness to receive critical and life-saving social services ranging from veterans housing and case management to health screenings, podiatry services, eye exams and haircuts from local businesses. TV One volunteers served as liaisons to those in need by helping them maneuver through the various booths and exhibits offered at the Kennedy Recreation Center. A national study conducted earlier this year by the U.S. Conference of Mayors ranked Washington, D.C. with the highest rate of homelessness compared to 32 other U.S. cities. The Gospel Music Association (GMA) announced the last round of presenters for the 48th Annual GMA Dove Awards. Beth Moore, Dr. Bobby Jones, Brandon Heath, Chonda Pierce, Jaci Velasquez, John Gray, Karen Peck Gooch, Kim Fields, Lauren Daigle, Mandisa, Miel San Marcos, Gov. Mike Huckabee, Montell Jordan, Trace Adkins, Travis Cottrell and Tye Tribbett were added to the all-star lineup. The 48th Annual GMA Dove Awards is set for October 17 at Lipscomb University’s Allen Arena in Nashville. Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) will exclusively air the awards show on October 22 at 8 p.m. CST. The Stellar Awards returns to The Orleans Arena, Las Vegas, NV. Saturday March 24, 2018 6:30 P.M. Tickets are availabe now. Oprah Winfrey took the concept of a book party to another level on Sunday for the launch of her own time. “I wanted to do something uplifting,” Winfrey said regarding her grandiose, celeb-filled brunch for “Wisdom of Sundays,” a collection of what she calls her “a-ha moments” from her conversations with thought-leaders and writers from OWN’s “Super Soul Sunday.” “Some 250 guests attended the gospel brunch at her sprawling, 65-acre estate in Montecito, Calif. The A-list crowd included Julia Roberts, Reese Witherspoon, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Alicia Keys, Mindy Kaling, Sterling K. Brown, Chrissy Metz, Ava DuVernay, Shonda Rhimes, Angela Bassett, Jon Bon Jovi and Kerry Washington, along with many “Super Soul” contributors. Bebe Winans, led a rousing, hourlong gospel concert, with performances by Andra Day, Common, Yolanda Adams, Erica Campbell, and Emily David, a survivor of Hurricane Harvey — and former “America’s Got Talent” contestant who lost everything in the disaster. Fresh off of co-hosting the green carpet at the 2017 BET Hip Hop Awards from Miami, hip-hop artist Dee-1 unleashes a lyrical opus with his upcoming new album SLINGSHOT DAVID. Available for pre-order now, Dee-1 has crafted a 13-track full-length release featuring “Hood Villains.” SLINGSHOT DAVID drops Friday November 10th, 2017. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2JqP5bN-HI) Cheryl Fortune releases, “Simply Cheryl” with a listening performance Friday October 13, 2017. The listening party included Fortune performing with her band and background singers. It was broadcast live from the KTSU 90.9 FM studios on the campus of Texas Southern University and stream live on www.iamsimplycheryl.com/live and on www.facebook.com/SimplyCherylFortune. Fortune is noted for co-writing James Fortune & FIYA’s No. 1 hits “I Trust You,” “Still Able” and “Live Through It.” Her songs have also been recorded by Shirley Caesar, Tasha Cobbs and Zacardi Cortez. She also co-wrote the hit, “Hold On,” which features Fred Hammond and R&B singer, Monica. Fortune was a member of James Fortune & FIYA, where she served as the vocal arranger, backing vocalist and occasional songwriter from its inception until her separation and subsequent divorce from the group’s leader. The last two years, Fortune has toured with Kirk Franklin’s “20 Years In One Night” world tour as a background vocalist and a vocal director. RCA Inspiration celebrates multiple #1s on the Gospel charts this week, as Verity’s Marvin Sapp makes another chart-topping debut with his 11th solo album CLOSE, and Le’Andria tops the charts again with her hit song “Better Days.” Released on September 29th, Marvin Sapp’s new album debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums Chart this week, marking his fifth consecutive #1 debut on that chart. The CLOSE album also debuted at #1 on the Gospel Total Consumption Chart. Le’Andria’s hit song “Better Days” remains #1 on Billboard’s Gospel Digital Song Sales Chart for the second consecutive week, and the song is also featured on the GREENLEAF SOUNDTRACK: VOLUME 2. Le’Andria’s latest solo album BIGGER THAN ME, is also out now. The legendary trio, The Rance Allen Group, will perform songs from its 25th album, Live From San Francisco, Friday, October 6th of the PBS’ “Tavis Smiley” television program. The show airs at 11:30 PM PT in Los Angeles and 12:00 AM ET in New York City. The segment will also appear on the http://tavistalks.com website within 24 hours of broadcast. The brothers performed their classic hit “Something About The Name Jesus” and “Like A Good Neighbor,” on the show. “It’s a kind of depressed time,” says Rance Allen who sees parallels between today’s social climate and that of when his group was formed during the Civil Rights Movement. “It’s a time of unusual stress with all of the killings going on, the political mess that’s going on and there’s just so many people who have just moved away from believing in Jesus Christ. Our job of encouraging and uplifting will never be done. We’ll have to keep working on this until the Lord comes to take us home.” REJOICE! Musical Soul Food (REJOICE! MSF) Gospel Radio Network has expanded its reach with an exciting new partnership with REACH Radio Network. The fresh union has brought the celebrated REJOICE! MSF format to twenty new markets, including 97.1 FM in Philadelphia and 103.1 FM in Atlantic City, NJ. The Dover, DE-based REACH Radio Network recently flipped all twenty of its Contemporary Christian Music FM radio stations to carry the REJOICE! MSF format. “We made the decision to carry REJOICE! MSF as a move to reflect the changing demographics of my congregation and to also reflect the changing demographics of the markets where the stations are based,” says REACH Radio founder, Steve Hare. Already collecting critical acclaim from every corner of the country via her celebrated songwriting contributions for Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, Colorado Mass Choir and Disney, as well as No. 1 charting success as a member of music's first interracial female duo AsOne, powerful vocalist Lisa Wright launches out on her own with her first solo single, "Don't Ever Let Go" featuring hip hop artist Da T.R.U.T.H. "Watch lyric video here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKUVfQ6HT3w James Fortune is back with another single “Favor of God.” It is a standout track from Fortune’s newest release “Dear Future Me." Zacardi Cortez laces the track with his signature rich vocal tone and gritty delivery. Check out this video- “Favor Of God” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ftp9oTEb96Q Earnest Pugh, has dropped a new music video for his current radio hit “Survive” on VEVO (View link: https://www.vevo.com/artist/earnest-pugh). The soul-stirring song of strength and perseverance anchors the soulful singer’s ninth album, Survive, which releases October 27th. And boasts cameos by Kierra Sheard, Nikki Ross, Sarg and John Paul McGee. A Houston resident, Pugh is donating a portion of the song’s proceeds to the city’s Hurricane Harvey Fund, which benefits survivors of the catastrophic storm. Superadio Networks has announced an affiliation and sales agreement with Marvin Sapp’s Praise Place, LLC to syndicate The Marvin Sapp Radio Show, a weekly radio show hosted by the Grammy nominated and multiple Stellar, Dove and BET Award winner. The Marvin Sapp Radio Show is a 2 hour show spotlighting the best in Inspirational and Gospel music, entertainment news, artist interviews and weekly features including “Marvin’s Motivational Moments” and “Ask Marvin.” Stellar Award winning, GRAMMY and Billboard Music Award nominated and GMA Dove Award nominee Jekalyn Carr's newest single "You Will Win" debuts at No. 1 on Billboard's Gospel Digital Song Sales chart. This marks Jekalyn's second consecutive No. 1 on the chart. "You Will Win" continues to gain traction at radio sitting at No. 13 on the Gospel Airplay chart. Jekalyn Carr‘s song, “You Will Win” is the first single off her forthcoming live record, "One Nation, Under God" set to be released in 2018 on her independently owned label Lunjeal Music Group along with her new book. "Grace" is the new single from Javen. It captivates the listener with a simple, intimate chorus, that celebrates the Grace of God. This hook is so memorable, that it is sure to be sung in churches all over the country. "Grace" features special guest vocalist Margaret Bell, who closes the song with a powerful anointing. Karew, home of the Grammy Award winning Clark Sisters and multiple award winners Karen Clark Sheard and Kierra Sheard, announced exciting new changes, new branding, new music, new visuals, and more during it’s relaunch showcase event on Tuesday, September 19 at Studio 51 in Detroit. The Karew relaunch showcase informed attendees about their new expansion to becoming a multi-genre label. The event included a new music performance by Karew’s own Kierra Sheard. Kierra gave attendees an exclusive listen of her new music featuring rapper, Sir The Baptist. Additionally, J. Drew & The Band performed. Upon entrance into the venue, guests were shown the all-new apparel by Karew. “Let Go” - https://youtu.be/l91MOZ6bXU8 Tina Campbell, the multiple award winning soloist, multi-Grammy® winning recording artist, author, WE tv original series star, and now web series star, who, with sister Erica is one-half of the iconic Gospel duo, Mary Mary, releases her newest solo album It’s Still Personal today, September 29th, 2017. The album is a re-working of Tina’s 2015 solo debut It’s Personal, the NAACP Image Award winner for Outstanding Gospel Album in 2016. It’s Still Personal features three new original tracks—the heart felt new single, “Too Hard Not To,” plus a rousing soulful Southern Gospel tune, “Evidence,” and the rap/hip hop tinged “We Livin.” The singer also includes a re-production of the previously recorded track “Woh, Oh, Oh.” Multiple award-winning Gospel music icon Marvin Sapp releases his 11th solo album on Friday, September 29th. The 10-track album is available at major music retailers and all digital music outlets. Additionally, for the first time, Marvin Sapp will celebrate his album release with a live concert in his hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Sapp will perform new music as well as classics that his fans know and love. The concert will take place at Lighthouse Full Life Center in Grand Rapids, and will be streamed on The Word Network as well as Facebook Live. Bryan Popin and Little Boy Wonder Music and Flaydo Music launched the #IGOTOUTCHALLENGE and asked fans to submit a lip sync video or dance video to Popin's smash single "I Got Out." After hundreds of entries Bryan Popin has announced that 3 year old Emory Battise has won the #IGOTOUTCHALLENGE and a $150 cash visa card. Watch 3 year old Emory's winning video here: https://youtu.be/VJIYcaQ7LcE GRAMMY®-winning recording artist Tasha Cobbs Leonard shares more of herHEART. PASSION. PURSUIT. journey with the launch of “The Story Of… HEART. PASSION. PURSUIT.” a beautifully crafted 6-part weekly docuseries airing exclusively on YouTube and Vevo. Cobbs Leonard shared the full film at an exclusive screening event in New York City this week. Filmed in HD, “The Story Of… HEART. PASSION. PURSUIT.”offers an intimate look at Cobbs Leonard’s process creating the record-setting and chart-topping album. Weaving never-before-seen rehearsal footage and behind-the-scenes interviews with in-studio performances of her new music, viewers will enjoy personal insight from Tasha as well as the various participants, including the songwriters, worship leaders and guest artists featured on the album. The weekly series will begin October 6 on Cobbs Leonard’s YouTube channel (TashaCobbsVEVO) and on Vevo (https://www.vevo.com/artist/tasha-cobbs-leonard). A new episode will premiere every Friday. In collaboration with the Recording Academy™, Great Performances presents GRAMMY Salute To Music Legends 2017™, the second annual all-star concert offering a primetime spotlight for the Academy's 2017 Special Merit Awards recipients. The celebration and tribute concert feature rare performances by honorees and renditions by those they've inspired. The celebration, led by Paul Shaffer as musical director, was recorded in July at New York's Beacon Theatre, and will air Friday, October 13 from 9 - 11 p.m. on PBS. This year's Lifetime Achievement Award honorees are Shirley Caesar, Ahmad Jamal, Charley Pride, Jimmie Rodgers, Nina Simone, Sly Stone and the Velvet Underground. Additional Special Merit Awards honorees celebrated include Trustees Awards recipients: producer, arranger, and songwriter Thom Bell; record executive Mo Ostin and recording executive, A&R and music publisher Ralph S. Peer as well as audio inventor Alan Dower Blumlein, who is the Technical GRAMMY Award recipient. Also honored is Keith Hancock, this year's recipient of the Recording Academy and GRAMMY Museum®'s Music Educator Award™. Melvin Williams kicks off his world tour "Where I Started From" at the GRAMMY Museum L.A. Live on Oct 5 presented by American Express. Williams sign a physical and digital distribution deal for his new label Melvin Williams Entertainment with New Day for the Christian market and Sony RED for the general market. The album "Where I Started From" released July 28. Five-time Grammy winner, Yolanda Adams and Emmy Award winning actor, Keith David, the star of OWN's megachurch drama "Greenleaf," will be the featured entertainment on Wednesday, October 4, 2017, when celebrities, dignitaries and activists from around world descend upon Atlanta to pay tribute to the "dean" of the Civil Rights Movement, Dr. Joseph Lowery, for his 96th birthday celebration. "Think Like A Man" producer, Will Packer; pastor and activist, Reverend Dr. William Barber; and attorney, Angela Rye; will be among the honorees for the evening hosted by the Joseph and Evelyn Lowery Institute for Justice & Human Rights (Lowery Institute). A musical extravaganza at The Rialto Center for the Arts at Georgia State University. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Ricky Dillard & New G's album 10, debuts at #1. 10’s lead single, “I Survived It”, is climbing the charts at Gospel radio. The song tugs on the heartstrings of anyone that has faced and overcome adversity. “I Survived It” is a battle cry for the soul to keep pushing, keep praying, keep praising, until victory is won. It is a reminder that the race is won by “he who will endure until the end.” http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Bishop J. Drew Sheard's 2017 Pentecostal Explosion Conference Pentecostal Explosion 2017 will convene in Detroit, Michigan on September 26, 2017 - September 29, 2017. All services will be held at Greater Emmanuel Institutional Church of God in Christ. This years theme is "Reigniting the Fire". Guest Psalmist for the entire week are Lady Karen Clark-Sheard; Evangelist Dorinda Clark-Cole and Sister Kierra Sheard. Natalie Grant will undergo surgery on October 10th to remove half of her thyroid, where two tumors have been found. As a result of the surgery, she will be canceling her shows and special appearances from mid October through the end of November to focus on recovery. Long known for her openness and transparency with her fans, Grant posted a personal video on social media, asking for prayer. “These are more than just fans to me. I have an army of prayer warriors around the world who have rallied with me many times through the years, and I know this time will be no different,” says Grant The Gospel Music Association (GMA) announced that award-winning singer-songwriter Kari Jobe and Gospel powerhouse Tasha Cobbs Leonard will team up to host the 48th Annual GMA Dove Awards. Also joining the all-star lineup are performers Bri (Briana Babineaux), Danny Gokey, Gaither Vocal Band, Ryan Stevenson and Travis Greene. They join previously announced performers CeCe Winans, Hillsong Worship, Matt Redman, MercyMe, Reba McEntire, Steven Malcolm and Zach Williams and presenters Anthony Brown, Chris Tomlin, David and Tamela Mann, for KING & Country and Matt Maher. The awards show will take place October 17 at Lipscomb University's Allen Arena in Nashville. Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) will exclusively air the awards show on October 22 at 8 p.m. CST. A DIY team of do-gooders help churches fix what"s wrong outside and inside the church walls. When it's broken, they call James Fortune! Gospel sensation James Fortune is a man on a mission; exhibiting a heart for God's Temple and the people who dwell within! Overcoming many personal struggles and professional milestones, he understands that in spite of our challenges, we have a future and can live victoriously! James and his DIY team usher in change as they put on hardhats, swing hammers and fix churches of all denominations. Sometimes the fix starts with breaking down walls of confusion and healing hidden emotions. James and his team ignite churches across the nation to excellence. They will fix anything, the choir, the roof, the congregation, the First Lady and perhaps the Pastor! If it's broken, fix it! Fix It! with James Fortune is apart of Twelve new television shows ordered by The Impact Network. The highly anticipated program slate will depict the complex life and life in general. Singer, songwriter and producer Charles Jenkins is always looking for ways to help people. This past weekend Jenkins and his Fellowship Chicago congregation donated $10,000 to Higher Dimension Church’s HD Cares Hurricane Harvey Initiative that benefits the Houston hurricane recovery. Stellar Award winning, GRAMMY and Billboard Music Award nominated and GMA Dove Award nominee Jekalyn Carr has unveiled her new website www.youwillwin.org on the heels of releasing her single “You Will Win,” which is available now on iTunes. On the www.YouWillWin.org website, fans will be able to post various things and situations that they are winning over. The website will offer You Will Win paraphernalia and receive updates on the You Will Win movement and Jekalyn Carr. Jekalyn Carr‘s “You Will Win” is the first single off her forthcoming live record, One Nation, Under God set to be released January 2018 on her independently owned label Lunjeal Music Group along with her new book. Mary Mary the Final Season on WETV returns September 28-9/8C http://www.wetv.com/shows/mary-mary/videos/season-06/mary-mary-final-season-trailer Stellar Award-winning hit artist Tasha Page-Lockhart unwraps her highly anticipated upcoming sophomore album THE BEAUTIFUL PROJECT available for pre-order now. Featuring her rising lead single “Over and Over." The 10-track project will be out on Friday October 20th, 2017. Cheryl Fortune, will release her debut album, "Simply Cheryl" on October 13th. Pre-orders for the twelve-track urban inspirational project kicked-off on September 15th. The album is anchored by the hit, “Fighters.” The empowering song booms with a catchy, marching band rhythm that is as catchy as its message is empowering. The heart-wrenching concept music video sheds light on domestic abuse, sex trafficking, suicide and addiction. Fortune’s native of Houston were flooding rains forced her family to evacuate their home. Now, Fortune is donating the first month of royalties from “Fighters” to Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. “As long as we band together, we will fight through this tragedy,” says Fortune. “Houston will be better than ever!” Karew, home of the Grammy Award winning Clark Sisters and multiple award winners Karen Clark Sheard and Kierra Sheard, is set to announce exciting new changes, new branding, new music, new visuals, and more during it’s relaunch showcase event on Tuesday, September 19 at Studio 51 in Detroit. The Karew relaunch showcase will allow all to learn more about their new expansion to becoming a multi-genre label. This event will include a new music performance by Karew’s own Kierra Sheard and J. Drew & The Band are set to perform new music as well. The event will feature food/drinks, vendors, a fashion show, artist performances, music video premieres and more. The Gospel Music Heritage Month Foundation (#GMHM2017) is proud to announce its ninth annual "Evolution of Gospel," which commemorates the month of September as Gospel Music Heritage Month (GMHM). The celebration will present inspirational and exhilarating music performances by some of Gospel music’s biggest stars and honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the rich legacy of Gospel music in America. The “Evolution of Gospel” will be held on Monday, September 18, 2017 at 7 p.m. EDT at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. This year’s Gospel Music Heritage Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Donnie McClurkin. Other honorees are: Tyscot Records Founder and CEO Bishop Leonard Scott and civil right leader and NAACP Chairman Emeritus Roslyn McCallister Brock. Anthony Brown, Travis Greene and Jonathan McReynolds shared with Essence Magazine their thoughts on why the church is losing millenials. The trifecta was highlighted by Kirk Franklin as “the future of gospel music” at last year’s Grammy Awards, when Franklin won Best Gospel Performance, telling the audience that, “During a time when millennials leaving the church is a major headline and diversity in gospel music is criticized, they offer a fresh perspective on what it means to have an artistic, authentic ministry grounded in faith.” The article discusses the age old question of should gospel artists collaborate with secular artists and the relevance of artistry with the Gospel. Brown articulates summarily, “The most important thing to me is that when people do look at us, we look like Jesus.” Over a period of years, the group G.I. has endured personnel changes, broken promises from record industry leaders and growing pains within the gospel music genre itself. In spite of it all, G.I. has played the game well and is now winning. G.I.'s new album Winning is available now. The group's highly anticipated third album features their new single "We Win" as well as a cameo from TV One's R&B Diva, Keke Wyatt. "All the songs have a similar theme as far as the elements we need to win in every aspect of life," says Branden Anderson, the group's mellow mastermind and co-founder. "Whether it be your spiritual life, on your job, or in your marriage. These songs all deal with some level of winning." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oi-U1tszXtM&feature=youtu.be City Winery in conjunction with TriFectHer Entertainment have come together to produce a benefit concert to help the victims of Hurricane Harvey. Join Kelly Price, Slick Rick, Trina, Case, Big Freedia, 112, MAJOR., LeAndria Johnson, Pastor Troy, Mia X, Donell Jones, Raheem DeVaughn, Gritz & Jelly Butter and many more to be announced. Atlanta’s on air radio personality, Ed Lover, and actress and model Eva Marcille will host the event. 100% of the proceeds from the ticket sales and silent auction will go directly to two Houston families (with several small children) who have lost everything and Mattress Mack, who is not only sheltering and feeding hurricane victims, but is mobilizing clean up efforts in the area. Tina Campbell, the multiple award winning soloist, multi-Grammy® winning recording artist, author, WE tv original series star, and now web series star, who, with sister Erica is one-half of the iconic Gospel duo, Mary Mary, announces her upcoming “It’s Still Personal Tour,” kicking off in LA October 18th.. The tour runs until just before Thanksgiving. A gathering of top Gospel stars have assembled for the tour, including Grammy® winner Erica Campbell, Grammy® nominated Gospel artist Jekalin Carr, Grammy® nominees The Walls, Inspirational a cappella group Resound, comedian/singer Jermaine Dolly, Jor’dan Armstrong, spoken word poets Ezekial Azonwu, David Bowden and Matthew Strange and host Thomasina “Goo Goo” Atkins. Help UNCF provide financial support to the thousands of HBCU (historically black colleges & universities) students in Texas and Louisiana impacted by the effects of Hurricane Harvey. Businesses are closed, perhaps for weeks or months, depriving employees of the paychecks they count on to pay family expenses, including their children’s college tuition. As the community comes together to rebuild, our HBCU students will need help with transportation, replenishing books, clothing and other educational necessities. Visit uncf.org/HarveyRelief or text UNCFNA to 50555 to donate. Today, RCA Inspiration and Lionsgate released Greenleaf Soundtrack: Volume 2. The 12-track album, which is available both on CD and digitally, features soul-stirring music from Season 2 of the acclaimed OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network original program, Greenleaf. The dramatic series, which airs on Wednesdays at 10 PM ET / PT, stars Keith David, Lynn Whitfield and Merle Dandridge and was recently renewed for a third season on OWN. Greenleaf Soundtrack: Volume 2 is a moving collection of songs performed by popular young singers including Jekalyn Carr (“Hold Me Close”), Koryn Hawthorne (“Won’t He Do It”), Le’Andria Johnson (“Better Days”) and Deborah Joy Winans (“Shine The Light”) and beloved veteran artists such as Kirk Franklin (“123 Victory”) and Mary Mary (“Heaven”) that leaves listeners on an emotional high. The album also boasts a remix of “The Root,” the show’s title theme, performed by the legendary Mavis Staples. Big Idea Entertainment, home of the leading faith-based studio and producer of the children's brand, VeggieTales, and rising gospel star Bryan Popin found a way to support Hurricane Harvey relief efforts from their Nashville, TN hubs. Big Idea donated VeggieTales school supplies, toys and clothing to families that have been displaced from their homes because of Hurricane Harvey's flooding and storm damage. Popin, his wife Susan, and four of their children ferried VeggieTales supplies to a holding facility for the Church of Christ Disaster Relief Center in Nashville, TN in preparation for an upcoming delivery to Houston area families. TEGNA Inc. (NYSE: TGNA) and TV One, the network which represents the best in Black culture and entertainment, announced that "Sister Circle," a live, daily talk show hosted by a panel of four female hosts, will premiere on a new date, Monday, September 18. Led by News One Now, which will expand to 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., "Sister Circle" will air live weekdays from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on TV One as part of the morning news and lifestyle programing block, as well as in 12 TEGNA markets. This is the first-time TV One, which reaches 59 million households, will carry original programming from a local station group. GRAMMY® Award winner, world-renowned pastor, educator and visionary, Smokie Norful has reached the heights of success in both music and ministry. With a career that has spanned two decades, Norful now brings his music and ministry efforts towards a new book, Take the Lid Off: Trust God, Release the Pressure, and Find the Life He Wants for You (Thomas Nelson, September 5, 2017). Multiple-award-winner, and top-selling artist Tasha Cobbs Leonard earns her second Billboard Number 1 album with HEART. PASSION. PURSUIT. Since its release on August 25, 2017, the Grammy® Award winner’s third album has also generated an historic 2 million+ streams in one week, dominating streaming and online platforms and continuing last year’s distinction as Billboard’s Most Streamed Artist in gospel music. Not only has HEART. PASSION. PURSUIT. seen the highest-selling week of any gospel album this year, the album released at a record-breaking pace earning the largest streaming debut in gospel music. Stellar Award nominated contemporary family group, The Showers, are releasing their sophomore effort THE JOURNEY, their long-awaited new album, on Friday, September 29, 2017, available digitally wherever music is sold. The 10-track project boasts lead singles "I Need You, Lord" and current radio single "I Belong To You" - both available now for purchase and streaming. Multiple Stellar Award nominated Washington, D.C. based group Charles Butler & Trinity are set to release their third project THE BLOOD EXPERIENCE this Friday, September 8th on all digital outlets. The 10-track project is produced by Butler, Brandon Maclin and James "Jimmy" Johnson. Multiple award-winner Anthony Brown adds another credential to his belt - actor. The premier singer, songwriter will make his acting and singing debut on the national tour of “Momma’s Boy,” a stage play written and directed by Priest Tyaire. Starring Johnny Gill, Robin Givens, Jackee' Harry, Shirley Murdock and Lil G. Anthony Brown will sing his hit songs as well as act in a part written specifically for him. Brown will play the role of Kyaire Williams. Kyaire, a pastor, is the older brother of central figure, Nasir Williams a well-known drug dealer and felon in the community. While Kyaire and Nasir are total opposites, Kyaire sets out to change his brother’s life. Brown steps into the role with his natural talent and real life experiences. Alexis Spight is formally known as the fiery young red-haired, three-time Stellar Award Winning, NAACP Image Awards and Grammy Award wining artist from Houston TX. is getting ready to release a new album. After overcoming adversities like homelessness, insecurities, material losses, and consecutive deaths, above all else, Alexis aspires to encourage, uplift, inspire and provoke change through the message of sound God has given her, while reminding the outcast that they are not cast out. Alexis is currently prepping for the release of her highly anticipated live recording titled “All Is Not Lost” held in Detroit Michigan September 12, 2017. Multiple Stellar Award nominated Washington, D.C. based group Charles Butler & Trinity are set to release their third project THE BLOOD EXPERIENCE this Friday, September 8th on all digital outlets. The 10-track project is produced by Butler, Brandon Maclin and James "Jimmy" Johnson. All-time great Carl Lewis to receive to be honored at the USATF Hall of Fame Black Tie & Sneakers Gala. "More than 20 years after his retirement, Carl Lewis still stands as one of the greatest legends in all ofsport," USATF CEO Max Siegel said. "His athletic accomplishments made history, and his advocacy for the professionalism of track & field made him a cultural trailblazer. " Due to the nature of the list of catastrophic events that are currently affecting our country, including the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey and spiked gas prices,Dr. Bobby Jones and his committee have decided to reschedule the Bobby Jones International Gospel Industry Retreat. The Bobby Jones International Gospel Industry Retreat was set to return to the home of its visionary, Dr. Bobby Jones, in Nashville, TN, October 15 – 17, 2017 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. However, “after looking at so much devastation from Hurricane Harvey and the many lives that it has affected rescheduling the Retreat is the right thing to do. It has been especially hard for some of our industry family, especially those who live in the Houston, Texas area, so we have decided to reschedule this event to a more conducive time for everyone,” says Dr. Jones. Our hearts and prayers go out to the people of Houston, Texas. In the midst of devastation, the community remains strong, but they still need our help. Meanwhile after receiving an overwhelming number of inquiries from citizens and companies who want to help, Mayor Sylvester Turner has established the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund that will accept tax-deductible flood relief donations for victims affected by the recent floods. It is administered by the Greater Houston Community Foundation. Gospel music legend Vanessa Bell Armstrong can now add “Dr.” in front of her name after receiving an honorary doctorate degree in theology from Next Dimension University, a Southern California based Bible college. The event took place at the West Angeles Cathedral in Los Angeles Saturday, August 20, 2017. Chancellor Joel McLeod, the founder of the Black owned university presented Dr. Armstrong her degree after she sang a crowd stirring rendition of her classic, “Good News.” She was overwhelmed with joy upon receiving the degree. “This is so awesome. I’m humbled that someone thought enough of my work to honor me in this way,” says the Detroit native and seven-time Grammy nominee. “In 2014 I lost my mother and my only son within a nine month span and there were times I felt like giving up. The good news is I didn’t.” Chancellor McLeod and the staff were thrilled Dr. Armstrong flew to LA from Houston to receive her degree. Darwin Hobbs stepped away from the recording booth for a few years to focus on his personal healing, his family, and his ministry as a worship pastor, he returns to the masses on September 1st with the release of “Call the Name of Jesus”. The single will be available everywhere digital music is sold. Tonight, GRAMMY® nominated and Stellar Award winning artist Travis Greene will join fellow world-renowned artists Natalie Grant, Jeremy Camp, Mark Hall of Casting Crowns, Danny Gokey, Jonathan McReynolds, Mandisa, Matt Maher, Matthew West, Ryan Stevenson and Hannah Kerr for a benefit concert “Together for Texas: Songs of Hope & Healing” to aid those affected by Hurricane Harvey. The concert will benefit the non-profit organization Convoy of Hope and be broadcast via Facebook Live beginning at 9 PM EST / 8 PM CST on Convoy of Hope's and each of the artist's Facebook pages. People can make $25 donations to Convoy of Hope by texting GIVE HOPE to 50555 or visitwww.convoyofhope.com to donate any amount. As you know, Houston, TX has been devastated by the Category 4 Hurricane Harvey. The city is flooded and many people have lost their homes, jobs, and livelihoods. Over the years, Houston has shown great support to Malaco Records and now it’s time for us to return the favor. August 30th through September 10th we pledge to donate 100% of the sales from our Online Catalog to the Hurricane Harvey Relief Efforts via The Salvation Army. Please help us give back to the people that have lost so much by buying your favorite album, performance DVD or other items. Thank you for your support. Malaco Online Catalog: http://bit.ly/2wosCsz #Hope4Houston #HurricaneHarveyReliefEffort #MalacoSupportsHouston On Sunday, October 8 at 7 p.m. ET/6 p.m. CT, TV One will premiere the powerful original movie BOBBI KRISTINA, an honest and moving look at the young woman at the center of one of the most talked-about stories in recent years. Starring newcomer Joy Rovaris (Stuck in the Middle) in the title role, the film aims to restore what has been lost amidst the tabloid headlines: the real Bobbi Kristina Brown, a.k.a. "Krissy" - the vibrant, talented and troubled only daughter of pop music royalty Whitney Houston and Bobby Brown, who died too young, and whose memory has been overshadowed by the circumstances of her death. https://youtu.be/qtOkelkcaJ0 Verizon and AT&T are donating money and waiving fees to help the victims of Hurricane Harvey that hit Texas. Verizon is giving USD 10 million to support Hurricane Harvey relief efforts, while AT&T is donating USD 350,000 to aid communities following the calamity. Both operators are also offering some sort of discounts on communications. Verizon partnered with local and state government officials to identify four non-profit agencies to support that are working on-the-ground on both immediate and long-term needs. Presiding Bishop of the Church of God in Christ, Inc. (COGIC), Charles Edward Blake Sr. and legendary GRAMMY® award-winning powerhouse, Pastor Shirley Caesar are set to headline the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated's (CBCF) Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) Prayer Breakfast, September 23, 2017, from 7:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C. This year's ALC honorary co-chairs are Congressman Marc Veasey from Texas and Congresswoman Robin Kelly from Illinois. Celebrating faith, freedom and resilience, this year's event will introduce a creative worship experience with liturgical dancers Stacy J. & Unified Praise from Houston, Texas and will also feature a performance by the Great Commission Baptist Church Choir from Ft. Worth, Texas. The CBCF is honored again to have this year's Prayer Breakfast sponsored by The Coca-Cola Company. Join The Walls Group along with Marcus Wiley, Kevin Lemons, Stevie J, Darius Paulk,Y'Anna Crawley, Kelontae Gavin, Amber Bullock and more for a night of worship benefiting victims of the catastrophic floods that hit Houston recently. The pop-up concert will take place atAll Nations Worship Assembly in Atlanta on Tuesday, August 29. Limited seating is available. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVF_JRAgsQQ TaMyya J hasd released her single "GOD's Got My Back", from her forth coming CD entitled LOVE FOR YOUR NAME. God's Got My Back received rave reviews and great support from radio across the country. It was the number one most added song to radio only four weeks in a row after her release date and continued moving up the charts. In addition to working on her project, TaMyya J is a radio host and has of thousands of listeners weekly on her 'Never Missed a Beat" radio show. "YOU DESERVE" is one of TaMyya's favorite songs recorded under the DarkChild Gospel label back in 2010 with multi-award winning producer Freddy "Uncle Freddie" Jerkins and Imani "Izy" Pressley. "Uncle Freddy" Jerkins has reproduced this single to give it a fresh new flavor and for inclusion on TaMyya's upcoming Love For Your Name CD/DVD. Todd Dulaney is back with a brand new declaration of faith titled “Your Great Name” !! It’s an uplifting track with an infectious beat and catchy lyrics! “Your Great Name” motivates listeners everywhere that when you call the great name of Jesus, your situation has no choice but to change for the better! Please consider adding this highly anticipated single into your rotation today! Award-winning chart topper Travis Greene celebrates another chart-topping album, as his new album Crossover: Live from Music City, debuts at #1 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums Chart. Travis also makes history in album streaming, as the first Gospel artist to garner over 1 million album streams in the first week of release. The acclaimed 15-track album has been captivating listeners with an uplifting musical experience to celebrate the love, guidance, and joys found in faith – through hit songs. His hit single “You Waited,” continues to make an impact across multiple charts as well, at #4 on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs Chart, #4 on Soundscan’s Gospel Digital Song Sales and #6 on Billboard’s Gospel National Airplay Chart. Additionally, his new album debuts at #15 on Soundscan’s Top Current Album chart, and his previous hit album The Hill also makes a return on the Top Gospel Albums Chart at #3 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums Chart this week. TV One hosted the Los Angeles premiere for the upcoming original film, "WHEN LOVE KILLS: The Falicia Blakely Story" on Tuesday, August 22nd at The Harmony Gold. "WHEN LOVE KILLS: The Falicia Blakely Story," marks the feature-length directorial debut of Tasha Smith. It stars Niatia "Lil' Mama" Kirkland, Lance Gross, Tami Roman, Tiffany Black and also guest stars Floyd Mayweather, Big Freedia and Lil Zane. Special guests in attendance of last night's screening included: Angela Bassett, Loni Love, Tiffany "New York" Pollard, Tisha Campbell-Martin, Safaree, Essence Atkins, Judge Faith Jenkins, Bresha Webb, Estelita, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Miracle Watts, MAJOR., Apryl Jones, Joy Rovaris, Jensen Atwood, Jon Chaffin, Jasmine Brand, Jackie Long, Flex Alexander, Ferrari, Christian Keyes, Vanessa Bell Calloway, Andra Fuller, Michelle Rice (TV One, Interim General Manager) and more. Following the premiere screening, the cast conducted Q&A moderated by Kevin Fraizer.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxenaC-ZxpI&feature=youtu.be The Heart of Same Kind Of Different As Me video features Ron Hall and film's stars (Greg Kinnear, Renee Zellweger and Djimon Hounsou) as they talk about the real people and events that inspired the drama. The film, based on the best-selling book, follows the true story of a man on a quest to save his marriage. Debbie Hall (Academy Award® winner Renee Zellweger) and her husband Ron Hall (Academy Award® nominee Greg Kinnear) recommit to their marriage in the most unlikely of places – a homeless shelter, whereas she insists that he volunteer with her at the shelter. But it’s really meeting the homeless man Denver (Academy Award® nominee Djimon Hounsou) which changes all three of their lives forever. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n71924UDbb8 Montel Dorsey is Pastor, recording artist, music producer and rising music executive. His new MUniversity Records label, a family partnership with co-owner Lady Darcia Pickett, is developing artists that are Kingdom driven and musically matchless. Montel released his LOVE OVER HATE album in March of this year that featured Ruth La’Ontra, Farrin Sherelle and rapper Janoir on the high energy Urban Gospel track “Celebrate”, and now Montel is growing his label and is introducing a powerful lineup of artists he is set to release over the next year. The MUniversity Records roster of artist includes an eclectic mix of Traditional Gospel, Contemporary Worship, Contemporary Christian and Urban Inspirational artists. Now, Montel is proud to introduce and announce LaBrock, Corey V & Fragrance, Dr. Aimee Clute, Tenishia Toussaint, Jason Hendrickson and Trevone Perry as the new additions to his indie label. If you missed Tasha Cobbs-Leonard's Performance last night on BET's Black Girls Rock, You have got to check it out! ABOUT BLACK GIRLS ROCK! ™: Founded by celebrity DJ, model and executive producer, Beverly Bond, BLACK GIRLS ROCK! ™ is a multifaceted movement dedicated to shifting the culture of media images depicting Black women and girls. Since 2006, BLACK GIRLS ROCK!™ has been committed to empowering women through media and enriching girls through leadership, education, and positive identity development programs. http://thatgrapejuice.net/2017/08/performances-bets-black-girls-rock-2017/ Grammy®, Dove, and 5x Stellar award-nominated recording artist, Todd Dulaney, has signed an exclusive management agreement with Nashville-based Maximum Artist Management. The announcement was made by the firm's founder and president, Mitchell Solarek. In two short years, Dulaney has become one of the most in-demand performing artists in the country since he stormed Gospel radio with his 2015 hit single, "The Anthem." The meteoric success of that track along with his sophomore project, A Worshippers Heart (2016 Light Records/eOne Entertainment) — which debuted #1 on Billboard's Top Gospel Album's charts — has led Dulaney from being "one to watch" to "one that's here to stay." It was Dulaney's extensive high-profile concert appearances, multiple award nominations, and fast-growing fan base that brought him to the attention of Maximum Artist Management, a top-tier firm whose eclectic client roster spans multiple genres. "Todd is a unique talent with a unique gifting' Montel Dorsey is Pastor, recording artist, music producer and rising music executive. His new MUniversity Records label, a family partnership with co-owner Lady Darcia Pickett, is developing artists that are Kingdom driven and musically matchless. Montel released his LOVE OVER HATE album in March of this year that featured Ruth La’Ontra, Farrin Sherelle and rapper Janoir on the high energy Urban Gospel track “Celebrate”, and now Montel is growing his label and is introducing a powerful lineup of artists he is set to release over the next year. The MUniversity Records roster of artist includes an eclectic mix of Traditional Gospel, Contemporary Worship, Contemporary Christian and Urban Inspirational artists. Now, Montel is proud to introduce and announce LaBrock, Corey V & Fragrance, Dr. Aimee Clute, Tenishia Toussaint, Jason Hendrickson and Trevone Perry as the new additions to his indie label. A Question of Faith in US theaters September 29, 2017 starring C. Thomas Howell, Richard T. Jones, Kim Fields, T.C. Stallings. A diverse community comes together after a tragic texting and driving accident, uniting through prayer and their quest for forgiveness. https://youtu.be/StNvFjirQks Dick Gregory, 84, comedian, activist, author, lecturer and world famous teacher, died on Saturday, August 19, 2017 when he was surrounded by members of his family, including his wife, Lillian. He was resting comfortably at the Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington D.C. after a week which started last Saturday when he was admitted interrupting a tour on the East Coast near his home in Washington, D.C. WE tv today announced the return of popular docu-series “Mary Mary” for its sixth and final season, starting on September 28th at 9pm ET/PT. The series, which chronicles the lives of Erica and Tina Campbell, sisters and members of the contemporary gospel group Mary Mary, returns this fall with six one hour-long episodes. One of WE tv’s most popular and talked about series, the fifth season of “Mary Mary” reached 12.7 million total viewers and was the #1 cable program We are asking all clergy to join NAN President, Reverend Al Sharpton, and other ministers from across the country as we take our concerns to the Justice Department. We need everyone also to help us mobilize the nation's clergy community to join our leaders in Washington on August 28th. Jekalyn Carr is one of the many Gospel luminaries that appear on the highly anticipated musical soundtrack, inspired by the hit OWN television series, “Greenleaf.” Greenleaf Soundtrack – Season 2 is available for pre-order now, and is scheduled for wide release on September 8th. Carr’s contribution to the soundtrack is a stunning original song, and a clear project highlight, titled “Hold Me Close.” Joining Carr on the soundtrack are Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, LeAndria Johnson, Mavis Staples and many more, including one of the show’s breakout stars Deborah Joy Winans. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com The album release concert of Tasha Cobbs Leonard’s third album, “HEART. PASSION. PURSUIT” goes down Friday, August 25, 2017. Grammy® winner Tasha Cobbs Leonard's new album "HEART. PASSION. PURSUIT" will be available in stores and online everywhere on August 25 on Motown Gospel. Tasha Cobbs Leonard’s “The Name Of Our God,” here: https://youtu.be/dZZdZAahWhI. Beloved songstress Lisa Page Brooks is back with brand new music! Known for her soulful vocal interpretations, Lisa Page Brooks has proven to be a beloved voice in the Gospel community. “Do It Again” speaks to triumph through the power of God working in one’s life. Page Brooks lets us know that through life’s victories & experiences she has learned that God will always come through. As Bryan Popin's "I Got Out" single continues to climb up the charts. Popin is slated for high-profile appearances on TV One's News One Now with Roland Martin, CBN News Studio 5, Radio One's Detroit Women's Expo on August 20, and Radio One’s Indiana State Fair "Gospel Music Festival" on August 26. Tune-in to TV One's NewsOne Now with Roland Martin and CBN News for Popin's undeniably inspiring story as an independent artist creating his own unique brand of music that is changing lives. J.J. Hairston & Youthful Praise continue to ride the wave of success with "You Deserve It," the first release on Hairston's new recording label, JamesTown Music. Hairston and his group Youthful Praise have been nominated for their first Dove Award for Traditional Gospel Album Of The Year. JamesTown Music also announced today the release of the next single from the album, "No Reason To Fear." This upbeat song reminds listeners that with faith and God they have no reason to fear. "No Reason To Fear," is scheduled to be released at radio on August 28th. It will be available for download on all digital outlets September 1st. Tina Campbell, the multiple award winning soloist, multi-Grammy® winning recording artist, author, WEtv original series star, and now web series star, who, with sister Erica is one-half of the iconic Gospel duo, Mary Mary, unveils the video for her newest single, “Too Hard Not To,” in exclusive premiere Friday, August 11th. The original song is the lead single from Tina’s upcoming solo album It’s Still Personal, a re-working of Tina’s 2016 NAACP Image Award-winning solo debut It’s Personal. The album is set to come out in September with pre-sale beginning August 18th. The single was premiered July 28th on her sister Erica Campbell’s nationally syndicated morning radio show Get Up! Mornings With Erica Campbell. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUQSSehepBM Acclaimed singer and former “The Voice” finalist Koryn Hawthorne is ready to take the music world by storm revealing to fans her eagerly-awaited first album project, with her self-titled RCA Inspiration debut EP set for release today! When it came time to collaborate on this project, Koryn's powerhouse vocals and impassioned delivery attracted some of music’s biggest names, including GRAMMY Award® winning producers/songwriters Warryn Campbell and Bernie Herms. "Speak The Name" lyric video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPCBz2YSGo4 RCA Inspiration and Lionsgate announced the Greenleaf Soundtrack: Volume 2 will be released September 8, 2017. Deborah Joy Winans, Mary Mary, Le'Andria Johnson, Koryn Hawthorne, Kirk Franklin and Roshon Fegan are featured, Earnest Pugh and Blacksmoke Records founder Kerry Douglas have created such number one smashes as, “Rain On Us” (2009) and “I Need Your Glory” (2011). After some years of working separately, they have reunited for Pugh’s forthcoming album and new radio single, "Survive,” which will be released in the fourth quarter of 2017 on Douglas’ Black Smoke Music Worldwide label. Twenty-time Dove Award winner CeCe Winans adds three more nominations to the list for her first solo album release in nine years "Let Them Fall In Love." The winners will be announced on Tuesday, October 17, 2017 at Lipscomb University’s Allen Arena in Nashville at 6:30 p.m. CST. Award-winning gospel artist Jacky Clark Chisholm is excited to announce her support of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital©. On August 8, 2017, Chisholm is scheduled to release her upcoming single "Cover Me" with all proceeds benefitting St. Jude, which is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. TV One hosted the Atlanta premiere for the upcoming original film, “WHEN LOVE KILLS: The Falicia Blakely Story” on Wednesday, August 9th at Regal Atlantic Station to a packed theater of over 400 attendees. “WHEN LOVE KILLS: The Falicia Blakely Story," marks the feature-length directorial debut for Tasha Smith and stars Niatia “Lil’ Mama” Kirkland, Lance Gross, Tami Roman and also guest stars Floyd Mayweather, Big Freedia and Lil Zane. 48th Annual GMA Dove Awards nominations were announced with Motown Gospel receiving four nominations. The top nominees include VaShawn Mitchell who earned (2) nods for “Secret Place: Live In South Africa.” He was recognized for Contemporary Gospel/Urban Worship Album of the Year and Urban Worship Recorded Song of the Year for his number one song “Joy.” Multiple Dove Award winner, Tasha Cobbs Leonard who has garnered nearly a dozen GMA Dove nominations, received a nod for Gospel Artist of the Year. Meanwhile, fan favorite Tye Tribbett received a nomination for Contemporary Gospel/ Urban Worship Recorded Song of the Year for “Work It Out,” and Tim Bowman earned a second Dove Award nomination for “Fix Me,” in the Traditional Gospel Recorded Song of the Year category. Pastor and Grammy-winning musician Smokie Norful has one piece of advice: take the lid off. This concept was inspired by watching his grandmother make her signature dish of sweet rice. When the heat got too high, the pot began hissing and boiling over, like it was about to explode. His grandmother would remind him the only way to avoid an eruption is to remove the lid. Similarly, the only way to avoid an emotional overload is to take our own lids of. This is the premise behind Norful’s new book Take the Lid Off: Trust God, Release the Pressure, and Find the Life He Wants for You Out September 5, 2017. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com RCA Inspiration received 9 nominations for the upcoming 48th Annual GMA Dove Awards, with hit releases from five artists being recognized in six categories today. The GMA Dove Awards nominations honor the outstanding work from chart-toppers Kirk Franklin, Travis Greene, Fred Hammond, Donnie McClurkin and William Murphy spanning Contemporary Gospel, Traditional Gospel, and Urban Worship categories, as well as top categories including a Songwriter of the Year nomination and two nods for Gospel Artist of the Year. Additionally, Franklin receives a nomination in Contemporary Gospel/Urban Album of the Year as a producer on Tamela Mann’s project. The 48th Annual GMA Dove Awards will be taped Tuesday, October 17, 2017 in Nashville, TN. Anthony Brown & group therAPy received a GMA Dove Award nomination for "Trust In You" CONTEMPORARY GOSPEL / URBAN RECORDED SONG OF THE YEAR. The GMA Dove Awards will take place October 17, 2017, live from Lipscomb University in Nashville, TN. Top-selling artist Anthony Brown & group therAPy, continue to soar earning their second number one album with “A Long Way From Sunday." The album debuts this week at Number 1 on both Top Gospel Albums and Top Christian and Gospel Albums charts. “A Long Way From Sunday” is the third release from Brown, and shows his continued upward trajectory in his music career. “A Long Way From Sunday” is a strong and relevant project. Charles Butler just released his latest single, "I Know It Was The Blood," off of his upcoming EP, "The Blood Experience" scheduled to be released in September. "I Know It Was The Blood," is a fresh, melodic anthem ready to sweep churches nationwide. It showcases Charles Butler's signature sound of fusing both traditional and contemporary styling. The Kennedy Center Honors announced today that its honorees for 2017 will be actress, dancer and choreographer Carmen de Lavallade, singer-songwriter and actress Gloria Estefan, hip hop artist and television star LL COOL J, television writer and producer Norman Lear and renowned musician and record producer Lionel Richie. They will be recognized during THE 40th ANNUAL KENNEDY CENTER HONORS, to be broadcast Tuesday, Dec. 26 (9:00-11:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. CBS has broadcast the special each year since its debut 40 years ago. Losing his brother to cancer, going through a divorce and many other emotionally-driven incidents led Grammy®, Dove and Stellar Award nominee and Stellar Award winning producer, songwriter and recording artist Darnell Davis to birth and release "Live Again", a credible body of work that speaks to the soul, available Friday, August 11, 2017. Produced By Darnell Davis and Brian Kendrick for MVP Productions, "Live Again" is about starting fresh and living a joyous, complete whole life after an emotional death. Central City Productions will pay tribute to The Jacksons, Donnie McClurkin, Slick Rick, Guy, Oleta Adams andJody Watley during the Black Music Honors, a live taping television special that will take place on Friday, August 18, 2017, at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) in Nashville, TN. The two-hour event will acknowledge the legendary African American artists who have influenced and made significant musical contributions to African American culture and American music worldwide. Rickey Smiley, television and radio personality and Grammy Award-winner and actress LeToya Luckett, will co-host the show set to air on broadcast syndication, Sept. 2-30, 2017 and on Bounce TV, Tuesday, October 10, at 7 p.m. (ET). Grammy® and Dove award nominated songwriter and urban inspirational artist Dayna Caddell, collaborates with the multi-talented Israel Houghton and ingenious producer Warryn Campbell on “So Grateful”. “So Grateful” is a testament to God’s mercy and the fact that He gave his life for us. Join the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF) for the 47th Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) in Washington, D.C. at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, September 20 - 24, 2017. This year's conference theme, "And Still I RISE" reflects a legacy of resilience that emphasizes the collective strength of the black community to rise above continued racial inequalities Tina Campbell, the multiple award winning soloist, multi-Grammy® winning recording artist, author, WE tv original series star, and now web series star, who, with sister Erica is one-half of the iconic Gospel duo, Mary Mary, unveils her new single, the Gospel/Pop ballad, “Too Hard Not To,” last Friday, July 28th, on sister Erica Campbell’s nationally syndicated morning radio show Get Up! Mornings With Erica Campbell. In the coming weeks Tina returns with her newest solo album, It’s Still Personal, the follow-up to 2015’s solo debut, It’s Personal. A re-working of the NAACP Image Award winner for Outstanding Gospel Album in 2016, It’s Still Personal features three new original tracks—the heart felt new single, “Too Hard Not To,” plus a rousing soulful Southern Gospel tune, “Evidence,” and the rap/hip hop tinged “We Livin.” The singer also includes a re-production of the previously recorded track “Woh, Oh, Oh.” Jekalyn Carr, recently took the stage at Radio One/Praise 102.5's annual Gospel Music summer concert in Atlanta, GA. This year's lineup included Carr, alongside CeCe Winans, Tamela Mann, Erica Campbell, Charles Jenkins, Byron Cage, Deitrick Haddon, JJ Hairston, James Fortune, Ted Winn, Canton Jones, Wess Morgan, Brian Popin, Tim Bowman, Jr., Jermaine Dolly, Jamie Grace and more. In just over a month, "Soles4Souls' first reformation organization partner, met its shoe challenge and exceeded its' goal by 20,000 pairs of shoes yielding a donation of 70,000 pairs of gently used and new shoes to help those in need and fight global poverty. The shoes FGBCFI collected will be delivered to Soles4Souls–a non-profit that creates sustainable jobs and provides relief through the distribution of shoes and clothing around the world. Founded in 2006, the organization has distributed more than 30 million pairs of new and gently used shoes in 127 countries. Koryn Hawthorne has released her debut single, ''Won't He Do It,'' produced by Rich Shelton, Makeba Riddick-Woods and Matthew Head. Showcasing her confident voice with the artistic delivery that has garnered Koryn widespread praise among both her peers and her fans, she’s considered one of the most exciting new voices for her generation. “Won’t He Do It” is only just the beginning of a line of new music to come. Fred "Uncle Freddie" Jerkins III, President of DarkChild Gospel, has announced, A Project of Healing, the first of a series of gospel and mainstream compilation albums that will benefit cancer awareness, empowerment and education. This album will feature guest artist such as Bishop Paul S. Morton, Lowell Pye, Darlene McCoy, Alexis Spight, Jonathan Nelson, Trin-I-Tee 5:7 and more. The first single titled "We Won" featuring Jonathan Nelson is currently at radio and available on all digital media outlets. A stage play inspired by the project is currently being written and directed by Kim Fields. This project will be available this October 2017. On Saturday, July 22nd, Bishop Hezekiah Walker kicked off his Every Praise Gets Better Tour. It was announced today. Celebrating 30 years in the music industry, Bishop Hezekiah Walker is going on tour across the country to bring thousands of friends and fans together to celebrate this momentous milestone. Bishop Walker's love for God, people and music have inspired him to share this monumental anniversary with fans across the nation. With chart-topping sales and radio success, Bishop Hezekiah Walker is one of the most prominent artists in gospel music. His anthem Every Praise has gone global and has brought unity to the gospel community across the world. The Every Praise Gets Better Tour will feature the incredible Israel Houghton, who is a phenomenal praise leader who touches the heart of God and people through his music. No stranger to being a global artist himself, he will bring an added dimension of inspiration to this tour. Bishop Walker and Israel Houghton together are a force" Former President Barack Obama will be making a special trip to Richmond, Virginia this fall. Obama is currently slated to speak at the Richmond Forum on November 18, 2017. Organizers say that the former President will share remarks and participate in a question-and-answer session. The former president’s speech will open the 32nd season of the Richmond Forum, which is a speaker series held at the Altria Theatre. Snoop Dogg is giving the world a glimpse of his gospel music album, which already features a famous voice in gospel music, Fred Hammond. The rap mogul, whose real name is Cordozar Calvin Broadus Jr., took to Instagram to preview his gospel project Bible of Love for fans. In the preview video clip, Hammond's signature voice can be heard praising God. "He did it for me he'll do it for you, same God," Hammond croons in the audio track that Snoop can be seen lip syncing to. The 45-year-old hip hop veteran announced that he would create a gospel album earlier in an interview with Beats 1 Radio. "I'm working on a gospel album. It's always been on my heart," he said. "I just never got around to it because I always be doing gangsta business and doing this and doing that. But I just feel like it's been on my heart too long." He had already given fans a glimpse of what his gospel music may sound like. Last year, he turned Pastor Shirley Caesar's 1988 song "Hold My Mule" into a holiday song "U Name It Holiday Anthem." Grammy® Award-Winning Platinum Recording Artist Tamela Mann and NAACP Image® Award-Winning Comedian David Mann announce the 2017 fall tour dates for their wildly popular Mann’s World Family Tour featuring David, Tamela, son David Mann Jr, and daughter Tia Mann, sharing an evening of music, comedy and family entertainment. The Mann’s World Family Tour returns to the stage on September 1 in Miami with more than 20 dates planned for the fall. “We’re excited to get back on the road this fall and go on tour with our kids. It’s not just a concert, or a comedy show, it’s a family experience,” says David Mann, executive producer of the tour. Coinciding with the announcement of their fall tour dates this week, Tamela was honored to receive her fifth No. 1 on Billboard’s Gospel radio chart for her single, “Change Me.” “I’m thrilled and grateful that Gospel radio and their listeners love this song,” says Tamela. “It blesses me every time I sing it! I can’t wait to share it with audiences in concert this fall.” This Sunday tune into Joyful Noise on BET at 8am central to see and hear Isabel Davis do her single "The Call". Bishop Cortez Vaughn’s Corporate Sound Music Group firm has entered into a joint venture agreement with the world’s oldest operating black gospel music label, Tyscot Records. Bishop Vaughn co-wrote and co-leads J.J. Hairston & Youthful Praise’s soul-stirring anthem, “You Deserve It.” "Tyscot Records is excited about the partnering with Corporate Sound Music Group in developing and presenting the upcoming Bishop Cortez Vaughn album," says Tyscot Records President, Bryant S. Scott. “This venture is God's timing,” Bishop Vaughn adds. “God has allowed me to become a part of a family; not just a label. I can't wait to see what God has in store for us. My prayer is that with Tyscot we are able to reach nations. That the message of hope, faith and love will be spread across this entire universe through this family connection.” Dr. Bobby Jones International Gospel Industry Retreat goes down October 16-18, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn. Guest includes Yolanda Adams, Vickie Winans, Dottie Peoples, Byron cage, Kim Burrell, Ricky Dillard, V. Michael McKay, Melvin Williams, Paul Porter, Hezekiah Walker, Tye Tribbett, Karen Clark Sheard and many more. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com Dr. Leonard Scott received the Lifetime Achievement Award at this years Indiana Black Expo Gospel Showcase on Sunday, July 16th. Bishop George Bloomer, the "General of Spiritual Warfare", invites you to join him forThe Spiritual Warfare Conference - Optics For Life: At the Camp August 3-5. Three days of intensive teaching, strategic intercession and prophetic impartation are for those who want to be equipped to conquer the spiritual warfare of everyday life. Invited guest are Bishop William Murphy, Bishop E. Bernard Jordan and Dr. Judy Brown. Viacom announced it has signed a multi-year content partnership deal with actor/writer/director/producer Tyler Perrry.. The agreement includes television, film and short-form video created by Perry. Perry will produce approximately 90 episodes annually of original series for BET and other Viacom networks through the partnership. Viacom will also have exclusive distribution rights to Perry's short-form video content, with Paramount Pictures being granted rights on any new feature film concepts created by Perry. Bob Bakish, president and CEO of Viacom, called the deal an important step forward. Tyler is a prolific creative force, and I'm excited that this collaboration will bring his signature humor and powerful storytelling to Viacom's audiences while further cementing BET's position as the leading home for bold, relevant African-American programming and scripted content;" Bakish said in a press statement. Viacom has a rich tradition of reaching my audience through their TV, film and digital platforms and I am excited to partner with them, Perry said in a statement. I am eager to have one home where I can leverage all of their assets to tell my stories to an even wider audience. Perry added he will continue producing projects with Lionsgate and OWN on a non-exclusive basis. THE BENTLEY DIDIER FIRM a leading and cutting edge public relations based firm that specializes in Creative Direction, Publicity, and Consulting. TBDF are proud to announced the upcoming Ricky Dillard & New G: LIVE in Atlanta concert on Saturday, September 9, 2017 to be held at the dReam Center. Get ready to hear great Gospel music as Greenleaf, the popular drama set around the church makes its return to OWN during the month of August. Intentional, the hit from Grammy nominated and Stellar Award winning songwriter Travis Greene makes it into Season 2 as well as Won’t He Do It, the new single from The Voice contestant, Koryn Hawthorne. With his sophomore release, the classically trained pianist turned Gospel singer shares a body of work that took almost three years to complete, I Got Out was born out of Bryan Popin's reflection on "next steps" after going through a series of difficult and unexpected life challenges that could have easily shaken him. The title cut and new radio single "I Got Out,” a swingy congregational anthem with a contemporary edge, is currently #7 on the Gospel radio chart. Worship Leader and Recording Artist Kenny Smith returns with a brand new project entitled Transformation, releasing on July 14, 2017. The CD will be available on iTunes, Amazonand other digital retailers. Physical copies of the release will be available on Smith’s website, www.kennysmithmusic.com. Dr. F. James Clark and his Shalom Church (City of Peace) Music Ministry stepped into the Gospel music industry in 2015 with their SIMPLY AMAZING. The album debuted at #3. Dr. Clark has now created a musical platform for the youth and young adults of his St. Louis, MO based ministry and has released another chart topper, "SURE. FOCUSED. CENTERED" by Dr. Clark’s NextGeneration Choir also debuting at #3. Grammy® winner Tasha Cobbs Leonard has revealed her album cover forwhich is set for release in stores and online everywhere on August 25 on Motown Gospel. In advance of the release, Cobbs Leonard is offering the chance to pre-order the album online. People who purchase the album will instantly receive the current smash single,“Great God.” In addition, fans who pre-order the album will receive three new songs in the coming weeks leading into the August 25 release date. Shanachie Entertainment has partnered with Ted Winn's Teddy's Jamz label to release Ted's inspiring new single, "Stand In Awe," from his forthcoming CD of the same title set for release on September 1, 2017. https://soundcloud.com/shanachie-1/ted-winn-feat-balance-stand-in-awe-1/s-A9lx3 Industry Veteran and Prominent Business and Entertainment Lawyer, James L. Walker, Jr. recently announced the purchase of a new Atlanta law firm headquarters. The famous lawyer has represented the likes of Rick James, Jamie Foxx, Shirley Caesar, DMX, NBA star Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf and BET’s Bobby Jones, among so many other incredible clients over a near 25-year career. He also represents Grammy winning singer/writer Twinkie Clark (Clark Sisters) whose song is featured on Jay-Z upcoming "Family Feud" song on his newest 4.44 album. RCA Inspiration and Provident Music Group celebrate the relaunch of Verity Records, reviving the iconic label that has been a modern standard-bearer in Gospel for almost two decades! Reintroducing Verity, kicked off by the newly-launched single “Close” from Gospel icon Marvin Sapp, excitement is buzzing high among artists, the industry, and fans about the return of the beloved brand. Verity Records will be operated under Provident Music Group. On the heels of his fifth #1 single, “City Lights,” acclaimed guitarist and smooth jazz recording artist, Tim Bowman releases new single, “Amazing Grace Party.” Accompanied by Gospel guitarist, Jonathan DuBose Jr. (Known as The Prophesying Guitarist), “Amazing Grace Party” also features inspirational recording artist, Tim Bowman Jr., that's Bowman’s Grammy nominated rising-star son. Tyscot Records, the Indianapolis-based recording label picked up three ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Awards last week during the 30th annual gala ceremony that took place at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles. The big event handed out awards in R&B, Hip Hop and Gospel genres. During the evening, thirteen gospel songs were recognized as the highest-ranking ASCAP-affiliated songs on the Billboard Magazine Year-End Gospel Airplay Chart for the calendar year 2016. Songs by Tyscot artists, Anthony Brown & group therAPy and Casey J won three of the thirteen gospel citations. Brown, a gifted songwriter and producer, as well as, a singer, was recognized for last year’s rousing Top Ten hit, “Bless The Lord,” and the prior year’s No. 1 smash, “Worth.” Former elementary school teacher, Casey J, is also a fine songwriter. Her tune, “I’m Yours,” spent five weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Gospel Airplay chart in 2016. Pastor, motivator, songwriter, and composer Dr. Brenda Jefferson will debut her new single, MIRACLE, featuring Lowell Pye (Men of Standard) at Mega Fest's Mega Indie Project Friday, June 30th from at the Dallas Convention Center in Hall C. Miracle, from Jefferson's sophomore project, "Invocation," on Scripture Music Group, is a positive reinforcement with a relevant message that miracles still happen through prayer and faith. On this effort, with the help of Pye, she shares her testimony over precise production and significant lyrics. After recently headlining a successful 22-city tour J.J. Hairston & Youthful Praise continue to make strides to new heights in the gospel music industry and beyond with, "You Deserve It," the first release on Hairston's new recording label, JamesTown Music. This week Hairston marks 10 weeks at #1 on the Billboard Gospel Airplay Chart, 4 weeks at #1 on the Billboard Gospel Indicator Chart, and 7 weeks at #1 on theMediabase Gospel Indicator Chart with, "You Deserve It." The continued recent success of Hairston with the new album entitled, You Deserve It, after the smash hit single have entitled him to many firsts including performing this week at Bishop T D Jakes' Megafest, Essence Music Festival, as well as the Full Gospel Conference this week alone. Hear JJ Hairston in his own words on TBT...http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/J_J_Hairston_intvw.htm Taking a break from her upcoming family-friendly film projects, Tammy’Dele Films (TD) CEO, Tammy Williams recently attended the 7th Annual Spirit of the League Awards Luncheon where NBA star Dwight Howard was honored for his accomplishments as an athlete, advocate and founder of D12 Foundation. Going down at the Ritz Carlton Atlanta, Williams was an invited guest among the who’s who of Atlanta. Tammy Williams recently inked a deal with Total Momentum Productions, LLC, (TM) to fund a slate of her upcoming films, 'Ernie and Cerbie,' 'Dempsey the Dog' and 'Rescue Sal,' directed by Tammy’Dele Films. Joining the all-star line-up for the 37th annual edition of PBS’ A CAPITOL FOURTH, broadcast live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, are Grammy-nominated gospel legend Yolanda Adams, acclaimed country music singer and songwriter Kellie Pickler and Broadway star and two-time Tony Award nominee Laura Osnes (BANDSTAND). Adams, one of gospel’s seminal voices, will perform “Battle HYMN OF THE Republic” with Patrick Lundy & The Ministers of Music, Pickler, the American IDOL alum, DANCING WITH THE STARS champion and the star of the hit TV how, I LOVE KELLIE PCKLER will perform “This Land is Your Land” and “Small Town Girl” from her Gold certified debut album. A CAPITOL FOURTH is set to air on PBS Tuesday, July 4, 2017 from 8:00p.m. to 9:30p.m ET before a concert audience of hundreds of thousands, millions more at home, as well as to our troops serving around the world on the American Forces Network. Anthony Brown & group therAPy, dropped their third album, A Long Way From Sunday for pre-order today. "A Long Way From Sunday" follows Brown’s smash album “Everyday Jesus” which garnered a historic 10 Stellar Awards and their first Grammy, BET and Billboard Music Award Nominations. "A Long Way From Sunday" features songs that weave together a narrative of God’s love, compassion kindness, faithfulness and beauty. Fans who purchase the album today, will automatically receive the project's powerful first single "Trust In You." They will also receive an additional two songs in the following weeks including "Every Time," the anticipated collaboration with fellow stars Travis Greene & Jonathan McReynolds and "Never Alone" a classic-sounding Anthony Brown & group therAPy tune. In addition Brown invited several friends to join him including Leandria Johnson on a beautiful ballad, “Consumed,” Sho Baraka on the pop urban song “Lost” and an animated track produced by Warryn “Baby Dubb” Campbell on “I Got That.” Brown has plans to celebrate "A Long Way From Sunday" with an all-star release concert on Friday, July 28 in his hometown at the Warner Theatre in Washington DC. Grammy® Award winner Tasha Cobbs Leonard releases her brand new song, “Great God,” for download and streaming on all digital platforms today. The new release comes in the middle of a whirlwind weekend of high-profile performances and appearances during BET Awards weekend in Los Angeles, CA. The top-selling, multiple award winning artist shared the song in advance of her ambitious third album, HEART. PASSION. PURSUIT. due out later this summer on Motown Gospel. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com TV One's longest-running and award-winning series, Unsung, will launch its eleventh season on a brand new night with a dynamic new line-up of the music and stories of perseverance, determination and success told through first-hand accounts of the artists who experienced it. Beginning with a double-feature on Sunday, July 9, with Wyclef on Sunday, July 9 at 9 p.m. ET, followed by the story of Jagged Edge at 10 p.m. ET. Additionally, new episodes featuring Marvin Sapp, Switch, The Dramatics, Shanice, and Ice-T, airing in the show's new Sunday time slot of 10 p.m. ET. One of the most unique voices in gospel music, Marvin Sapp has been spreading the Gospel through song for over three decades. His powerful mix of old-school sensibilities and new school swagger led him to dominate the gospel charts in the 2000s with seven Top 10 hits including the #1 songs, "Never Would've Made It," "The Best in Me" and "My Testimony." Sapp's faith has been tested on several occasions - from illness, to personal attacks, to the tragic death of his wife, MaLinda, to colon cancer. Insights from family and friends are provided by Kirk Franklin, Byron Cage, Donald Lawrence, Dorinda Clark Cole, Aundrae Russell, Tyrone DuBose and Fred Hammond. Lamont Sanders is headed to Dallas, TX for MegaFest 2017! As he kicks off his summer tour and the release of new single, "Whatever It Takes", Lamont is excited and honored to perform at the Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center during the MegaFest Conference as over 100,000 attendees join together for one of the most highly anticipated faith and family conferences, founded and led by Bishop T. D. Jakes. On June 28th, Lamont Sanders will perform new music from his upcoming project, Watch Lamont Sanders now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lw43yfDJpBk&feature=youtu.be The Showers, Regina, Tabitha, Titus, Melody, Angela, Ciara and Tiffany are a group of siblings from Hammond, Louisiana that have been groomed in church ministry and are poised to carry the torch of Gospel music greats. Collaborating with respected producers and songwriters including Bruce Robinson, Jr., Deon Kipping and Myron Butler, The Showers have created an album – their self-titled debut - that resonates with a vast audience. “Better” is a contemporary Christian inspired sound with a message of hope, redemption and faith. The Showers believe that “Better” is a song that can reach everyone in any area of their life. penned by Deon Kipping. The highly anticipated album SURE. FOCUSED. CENTERED. by Dr. F. James Clark and the NextGeneration Choir is due to be released June 23rd. With the lead single “You Are” currently #41 on BDS/Billboard charts, this record is an incredible follow up to the Shalom Church (City of Peace) Mass Choir Stellar Award nominated debut album SIMPLY AMAZING,which landed at #3 on Billboard Top Gospel Albums chart in 2015. The expectation is great with this album by The NextGeneration Choir, and listeners can be assured that SURE. FOCUSED. CENTERED. will reach the hearts and souls of gospel music lovers all over the world. https://soundcloud.com/the-bellamy-group/dr-f-james-clark-presents-the-next-generation-choir-you-are More than 500 people attended the second dfree® Financial Freedom Movement regional conference. Held in Indianapolis, Indiana on June 2 & 3, 2017, at Eastern Star Church, and co-hosted by Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church, the conference featured an opening concert with Fred Hammond, and a series of stimulating workshops and sessions that challenged participants to take existing dfree® tools and strategies to the next level of their personal financial freedom and wellness. TV One returns to Miami for the 21st Annual American Black Film Festival (June 14-18), and the third annual TV One Screenplay Competition winner announcement. The network will also host, in partnership with Cadillac, the popular Celebrity Scene Stealers event, and debut two original movies - Downsized written by 2016 ABFF TV One Screenplay Competition finalist and honorable mention winner Michelle McKissick, and When Love Kills: The Falicia Blakely Story, directed by actress Tasha Smith. A Memorial service date has been set for music industry icon Kenny Taylor “Mr. Gospel.” The Memorial Service will take place on Wednesday, July 12th, 2017 at 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Glenarden Worship Center, Upper Marlboro, MD. Jekalyn Carr is in the final stages of preparation for the recording of her second live project, "One Nation Under God." The recording event will take place on June 22nd, at Brown Missionary Baptist Church in Southaven, MS. Shanachie Entertainment has partnered with gospel artist Ted Winn's Teddy's Jamz label to release Ted's inspiring new single, "Stand In Awe," from his forthcoming CD of the same title set for release on September 1, 2017. Click to hear new single: https://soundcloud.com/shanachie-1/ted-winn-feat-balance-stand-in-awe-1/s-A9lx3 The famed Miami Mass Choir made their return to Gospel music after being away from the music scene for fifteen years. with their December 2016 independent digital release "THE MIAMI MASS CHOIR: LIVE AT THE ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER." With an increasing demand from consumers, The Miami Mass Choir album will now be available in stores across the country. The choir has entered into an exclusive physical distribution partnership with Nashville, TN based Central South Distribution. Via Marc Cooper's MaJo Records, Central South, and marketing powered byThe Bellamy Group, the album hits music and Christian bookstore shelves July 21. Marc Cooper in his own Words: Gospel sensation G.I. (also known as God's Image) signs deal with Shanachie Entertainment and on August 25,2017 will release their label debut, Winning. G.I. joins the impressive list of Grammy and Stellar Award-winning artists Shanachie has worked with, including Kim Burrell, Mint Condition, Angie Stone, the Rev. Luther Barnes, Regina Belle, Marques Houston, Take 6 and numerous others. On the heels of rolling out her first solo album in nine years and kicking off the Fall in Love Tour presented by Medi-Share, CeCe Winans is learning how to juggle a very demanding schedule. Winans’ fans will hear first-hand from the gospel singer how she manages life as a wife, mother, co-pastor and entrepreneur. Tune in Saturday, June 17th at 10pm-ET/ 9pm-CT/ 7pm-PT on Centric a cable television channel geared towards African-American women. On Tuesday, June 13th Winans took a seat at Joni’s Table Talk that airs on Daystar Television 6:00 am, 7:30 pm and again at 1:00 am central time http://www.daystar.com/shows/daystar-original-programs/jonilamb/. Table talk is an upbeat and sometimes unpredictable half hour talk show that offers fresh perspectives on a wide range of relevant issues. Provident/Sony Music’s new artist, Tauren Wells is a new christian artist, who is opening up on tour with Mariah Carey and Lionel Richie this summer.“Undefeated” - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erFT6nmvMm0 The Word Network, the leading and most popular African American religious network in the world, told the FCC that Comcast violated its obligations codified in the FCC's Order approving the merger between Comcast-NBC Universal when it unilaterally removed The Word Network from nearly 7 million homes in January. The FCC's Order prohibits Comcast from discriminating against networks such as The Word Network based on affiliation or non-affiliation with Comcast. This is not the first time Comcast has flaunted its commitments in the Comcast-NBC Universal merger. Hot off the heels of his Number 1 single “Joy,” which is enjoying its 6th consecutive week at the top of the chart, VaShawn Mitchell introduces his second single, “God Will Take Care Of Me.” Offering a vintage feel, Mitchell harkens to a classic gospel vibe on “God Will Take Care Of Me” that is both significant and relevant. Featuring prominent Chicago vocalist Neicy Robertson, “God Will Take Care Of Me” offers a resonant sound that is perfectly suited for Sunday Mornings. Proving the tried and true sounds of gospel music are timeless. http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/vashawn_mitchell_intvw.htm Zak Williams has been a staple in the Gospel music industry for decades. Some know him as a noted Stellar Award-winning producer and songwriter. Others know him as the Music Director of the popular choir, Rev. Ernest Davis Jr.'s Wilmington Chester Mass Choir. He is also the leader of the Gospel choir 1/AKORD and the choir has just released a brand new single entitled “He’s All I Need”. The song is currently available on iTunes, Amazon, Google Playand other digital music outlets. Grammy Nominated worshipper Todd Dulaney with hits such as "Victory Belongs to Jesus" and "The Anthem", will be live at the highly anticipated 4th album launch/concert of DJ Nicholas "The Audiologist" on Friday July 21 @ The Ranny Williams Ent. Center in Kingston, Jamaica. It is the Kinsmen first "Live" Recording June 9, 2017. It will be produced by, Grammy Award Winning Producer,Percy Bady and Acclaimed Producer, Rex Hardy, Jr. Kinsmen's "Live Recording" will be hosted by, Sonya Blakey, Program Director for iHeart Radio's Inspiration 1390 AM radio in Chicago. The recording will go down at, Fellowship Baptist Church, Chicago, IL. The featured guest artist will be, the Award Winning Gospel artist, Charles Jenkins. GRAMMY® and Stellar Award-winning artist Le’Andria showcases a fresh sound and elevating musical experience on 10 new songs, as the acclaimed vocalist unwraps a new song and album cover for her upcoming new album BIGGER THAN ME, available for pre-order now. The new song “All I Got” is impacting UAC radio on June 5th, and both “All I Got” and the anthem “Bigger Than Me” are available as instant grat tracks upon digital pre-order, with the full album scheduled for release on Friday July 21st, 2017. The Bobby Jones Gospel Artist Retreat set to return October 9, 10 & 11, 2017 in Nashville, TN. Special guests Yolanda Adams, Vickie Winans, Dottie Peoples,Byron Cage, Ricky Dillard, Kim Burrell, Melvin Williams, The Williams Brothers and many More! Sponsored in part by GMA, The Belle Report and I Hear Music! On Sunday June 4, 2017 Bishop Larry D. Trotter Sr. & the Utopia Music Group, will present the legendary 9 time Stellar Award winning choir the Sweet Holy Spirit Church Mass Choir in their 11th Annual Live Recording Session. "THEY ARE READY." VaShawn Mitchell and Ricky Dillard launched their stellar careers from the Sweet Holy Spirit Church. Utopia Music Group will also be presenting the Stage Play, Consequences, on Friday June 9th and June 10, 2017 at Sweet Holy Spirit Church. This inspirational play was written out of real life experiences and deals with real life drama not only in the church, but real life. The 103rd Annual Hampton University Ministers’ Conference and 83rd Annual Choir Directors’ and Organists’ Guild Workshop convene on the campus of Hampton University from June 4-9. The Conference regarded as the political, cultural, and theological epicenter of progressive black American Christian thought and praxis. It continues to draw big name speakers like T.D. Jakes, President Obama and a host of other preachers and politicians who clamor for the opportunity to address conference attendees. Minister Earl Bynum has been afforded the opportunity to lead praise and worship for this prestigious conference. Bynum was not only chosen as the nightly song/praise leader, but was also selected to be on the music staff and teach workshops on “Leading and Implementing Praise and Worship within Traditional Worship.” Bynum’s praise and worship workshop session is the first of its kind in the history of the 103 Ministers’ Conference. For almost forty years, Judge Mablean Ephriam has brought a wealth of legal and sensible knowledge to courtrooms nationwide. In 2014, she returned to the bench in living rooms nationwide with her television show, "Justice with Judge Mablean." Dispensing her now familiar brand of justice with her no-nonsense, straight-talk demeanor and sense of humor. Since Divorce Court, in addition to speaking, she has focused her time and energy working on the mission of her nonprofit, The Mablean Ephriam Foundation, which is to build stronger families, educate minds, increase economic power among disadvantaged and lower economic persons and thus create better communities. Outside of her nonprofit foundation, she also hosts The H.U.F. (Honoring Unsung Fathers) Awards & Scholarship Brunch, which is an annual Father's Day event created to identify and recognize fathers who play a vital role in. It goes down Sunday June 18, 2017 at the Hilton Long Beach. Judge Mableean: http://www.gospel-spotlight.com/judgemablean_intvw.htm The Gospel Music Industry is feeling a huge loss following the passing of Kenny Taylor. His roots in the music industry ran deep. From Images of Unity, Air Records, Music Advocate for Gospel Music Heritage Month to being a Record Executive, Consultant to many behind the scenes and the connection for many to countless opportunities and opened doors where it was often impossible for most. Kenny was the CEO of Teemade Productions, Inc., where he provided full services in Promotions, Retail & Street promotions. He focused on brand development. He also worked as a tour manager, booking manager, event promoter, radio promotions and as a respected musician in his church. Mr. Kenny Taylor will surely be missed. The Carl Nelson Show radio program and Rock Newman’s Gibraltar Promotions, LLC have teamed up to present, Power Talk 4, the super bowl of scholars. The lecture series has attracted a who’s who of African-American political thinkers over the years, ranging from Dr. Julius Garvey (son of Black Nationalist, Marcus Garvey) to Professor Griff (of the iconic rap group, Public Enemy). Baba Dick Gregory will be honored with the Dr. Frances Cress Welsing Freedom Fighter Award at this year’s event. The award is named after the late Afro-centrist psychiatrist and author of The Isis Papers, who was honored at the second annual convocation on June 20, 2015. T.D. Jakes, CEO of TDJ Enterprises and Robert Mong, President of the University of North Texas at Dallas announced today the creation of an innovative entrepreneurial competition called MegaFutures@MegaFest, designed especially for students in grades 6-12. The competition will debut as part of this year's MegaFest, the nationally acclaimed four-day festival of faith and family. The Call for Entries is now open. Online applications are due by Monday, June 12. Participants will compete in two age groups (11-14 and 15-19), with finalists having the opportunity to present a three-minute oral presentation to the judges' panel on Thursday, June 29. A total of $50,000 in prize monies, sponsored by PlainsCapital Bank, will be awarded. Tillymann Music Group Platinum-Selling Artist Tamela Mann was honored to receive a 2017 Billboard Music Award for Top Gospel Album for her Billboard No. 1 selling release, One Way. The awards show recognizes the hottest names in music today. "What an honor to receive a Billboard Music Award," said Tamela. "Thank you God! And thank you to my whole team and to the fans! Congratulations to all the winners!" Watch the win on Facebook live: https://www.facebook.com/davidtamelamann/?ref=bookmarks Two-time Grammy nominated, multi Stellar Award-winning recording artist, songwriter and producer James Fortune is helping rewrite the stories of others through his involvement in charitable works. James Fortune has supported various charities over the years. Fortune served on the Radio Advisory Board for St. Jude Children's Hospital and supports The Banner Foundation and The Tracy McGrady Foundation. The newly formed partnership will be put into action for the first time at Dear Future Me concert dates on June 22 (Jacksonville, FL; The Potter's House) and June 23 (Atlanta, GA: The Dream Center). What happens when a mother holds on to her son too long? That’s precisely what we learn as Nephew Tommy, Jackee Harry, Shirley Murdock, “Lil G” from the R & B group Silk, Robin Givens and more unite to tell the story of a how a man is forced to change the life of a “Momma’s Boy” and turn him into a grown man. It's the play "Momma's Boy." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u5ja2UNS3jQ&feature=youtu.be Psalmist Raine has a passion for worship. Since the release of her ground-breaking prophetic project, 2016’s ReFresh Worship Live, worshippers have been basking in the presence of God. The critically-acclaimed project had fans and fellow artists alike singing praises. Stellar Award Winner Jason Nelson said this: “EVERY worship leader needs to purchase this CD from @psalmistraine. It’s the epitome of prophetic worship! Thank you for pure worship & praise. #refreshworshiplive”. Now the worship leader has added to her catalog with a brand new release entitled, To Abba. A follow up to ReFresh Worship Live, To Abba is the 3rd release from the celebrated artist. The project is currently available on iTunes, Amazon, Google Play and other digital music outlets. All is not lost, it's the Alexis Spight Live recording July 12, 2017 at Greater Emmanuel Institution COGIC in Detroit. Mali Music, Kierra Sheard, The Clark Sisters, Amber Bullock and Joshua Rogers will also appear. The dynamic rising star, Tiya Askia, is making things happen quick, fast and in a hurry. The Washington, D.C. - based singer's new three-track digital EP, "Hear Our Cry," has been selling briskly off of word of mouth excitement and, as a result, it has debuted at #1 on the Billboard Hot Singles sales chart. The title track, "Hear Our Cry," sets the tone for the project and channels Askia's heart and worship style. "Defender," takes the worship to another level with a neo-soul flavored song about perseverance and divine faith. The melodic radio single, "That Name," is currently impacting radio and it showcases Askia's sweet, high-pitched croon. RCA Inspiration celebrates double wins at the 2017 Billboard Music Awards with two top Gospel awards for Kirk Franklin and Travis Greene, winning in the categories of Top Gospel Artist and Top Gospel Song, respectively. Returning winner Kirk Franklin is honored with the Top Gospel Artist award for the second consecutive year. Returning nominee Travis Greene wins his first Billboard Music Award, with “Made A Way” named Top Gospel Song. The Award show was held in Las Vegas on May 21st, catch both Kirk Franklin and Travis Greene performing live at JoyFest, May 27th in Charlotte, NC (at Carowinds) and on July 15th in Doswell, VA (at Kings Dominion). Catch Bobby Jones Presents this week Saturday May 27, 2017 on The Dish Satellite Channel 268, DirecTV Channel 380, Comcast Channel 84, AT & T, Charter and Time Warner. Additionally you can catch Dr. Bobby on your IPAD, SMARTPHONE, or your COMPUTER @ www.watchimpact.com with links @bobbyjonesgospel.com Popular NAACP Image Award-nominated actor Antonio Fargas (Everybody Hates Chris, Starsky & Hutch) guest stars in the third season finale of Mann & Wife, world premiering on Tuesday, May 23 at 9pm ET on Bounce. When Daniel (David Mann) dreams that he is in a 70’s cop show, he uncovers the truth behind the cold case he has been struggling to solve. Real-life husband and wife team David and Tamela Mann star and serve as executive producers of Mann & Wife. It's time for "The Annual Mann Games" on the next episode of The Manns, airing Tuesday, May 23 at 8 p.m. ET on TV One. The entire Mann family loves a good challenge. They love to win, but more important, they hate to lose! This year it's every "Mann" for themselves. Who will be crowned victorious? The Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship is bringing "MOMENTUM" to Orlando, Florida for the family, fun and faith Experience of the Year. Founded in 1994 by Bishop Paul S. Morton, this is the 24th Annual Conference gathering of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship: a federation of African-American pastors and theologians representing over ten thousand churches throughout the country. Some of America's most powerful prophetic speakers such as Bishop Paul S. Morton, Sr., Presiding Bishop Joseph W. Walker, III, Bishop Noel Jones, Dr. Bill Winston, Overseer Debra B. Morton. Artist like Bishop William Murphy III, Tasha Cobbs, VaShawn Mitchell, JJ Hairston and many others will be featured. As an added bonus, Full Gospel will be hosting a Family Day at Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure & The Holy Land Experience and a Comedy show featuring Rickey Smiley, of the nationally syndicated The Rickey Smiley Morning Show. “We need to refocus on the things of God, the things that are important to Him. All attention should be on Him and when it is, He will lead us in the right direction,” says Kenny Lewis about the theme of his latest album, Refocus, which is available today. The 10-track album features songs of praise, encouragement and hope. The Gospel Music Workshop of America Annual Convention goes down in Atlanta, GA - July 22nd - 29th 2017. Stellar Award winning recording artist Lucinda Moore is set to perform her new dynamic new radio single, "Walking In My Favor" on Wednesday, May 17th for Medina Pullings Live television taping on the Word Network. The show will air at 8PM EST on The Word Network. Additionally, Moore is scheduled to perform a mini-concert for Kirk Franklin's Praise on SiriusXM Channel 64 which will air in the near future. Two-Time GRAMMY® Award-winning singer/songwriter Tye Tribbett received a BET Award nomination for the upcoming 2017 BET Awards announced by BET Networks, taking place at Microsoft Theater on Sunday, June 25 in Los Angeles. Receiving honors for Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award as a featured artist for the single “I Made It,” which is composed by Tribbett and Dave Outing and performed by R&B singer Fantasia. "I Made It": https://youtu.be/kGECDjfs7aw Lamont Sanders is excited to share his music and story of "Redemption" with everyone he comes in contact with, across the country. He is currently planning for a jam-packed Summer, including ministry connects, tour dates, radio interviews and new project release. On Saturday, May 20th, Lamont Sanders will perform during the 16th annual I Hear Music In the Air Conference in Cincinnati, OH. Jermaine Dolly is set to appear on TVOne's NewsOne Now 7a/6c Tuesday May 16th. He will talk about the new effort "Dolly Express." GRAMMY Award nominated Mali Music has announced the release of new music. The Transition of Mali will drop on June 2nd and features 13-tracks including “Gonna Be Alright”, the first single. The album’s pre-order is available on now. Chart-topper Travis Greene releases his new single “You Waited” – via live performance and interactive social experience. The acclaimed recording artist – who jump-started the year with worldwide buzz and career accolades including 2 GRAMMY® nominations, and winning a leading 7 awards at the 2017 Stellar Awards – now marks “You Waited” as the lead single from his highly-anticipated upcoming album Crossover: Live from Music City. Check out Travis Greene’s new video for “You Waited”: smarturl.it/YouWaited-Y RCA Inspiration congratulates chart-topping superstar Kirk Franklin, who collects a BET Award nomination for the upcoming 2017 BET Awards. The twelve-time GRAMMY® Award-winning trailblazer is nominated in the category of Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award, for his hit song “My World Needs You” (feat. Sarah Reeves, Tasha Cobbs, & Tamela Mann). Continuing to celebrate an incredible year marked by multiple GRAMMY® and Stellar Award wins earlier this year, in addition to this BET Awards nomination – Franklin also has three nominations at the upcoming 2017 Billboard Music Awards taking place on May 21st – and will be honored by the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) at their 2017 Legends Luncheon taking place on June 1st. The 2017 BET Awards will take place on Sunday, June 25th, 2017 in Los Angeles, airing live on BET at 8 pm / 7c. On Friday, May 12th Travis Greene released his highly anticipated new single "You Waited." He 'rocked it' on Facebook Live @TravisGreeneTV. In recognition of five-octave vocalist Earnest Pugh’s notable successes and inspiring career in gospel music, the city of Houston along with the Honorable Mayor Sylvester Turner, will commemorate Pugh's eleventh Top 20 single, "I Need You to Breathe,” with a special ceremony. No other Houstonian recording artist has earned as many Gospel Airplay chart hits since the tabulation was launched in 2005. The big event takes place this Monday, May 15, 2017 at the Legacy Room at Houston’s City Hall. During the event, Pugh will exclusively debut the new music video for “I Need You To Breathe” thats taken from his highly-anticipated album, "Fully Persuaded” which releases globally on June 2nd. Kim Burrell and the local news anchor, Jonathan Martin, will host the star-studded event. Some of Houston’s favorite musical artists such as Kathy Taylor, Terrence Hartford, Nikki Ross, David Michael Wyatt and Carl Thomas will be in attendance and share remarks. The 2017 International Christian Film Festival (ICFF) was held May 4-6 in Orlando, FL with thousands from around the globe in attendance. The ICFF screened 165 feature and short films, documentaries and music videos in three days from the more than 500 films from 40 countries that were submitted. Gospel singer Delois Massey rose to the top with her music video "Warrior". She Delois took home first prize for The 2017 International Christian Film Festival Music Video of the Year Award. "Warrior" is the first single from Massey's forthcoming album GRATEFUL which will release this fall. Sean Scales' debut single is titled 'All My Praise' and features former Men of Standard member, Lowell Pye. This energetic, uptempo Contemporary Praise & Worship song was written and produced by Sean Scales. A native of Columbus, OH and presently Charlotte, NC-based, Sean is credited with writing Lowell Pye's single, 'Alright' and Monica Lisa Stevenson's current single, 'Speechless' feat. Lisa Knowles. Multiple-award winning hit maker Rodney Jerkins has announced the newest addition to his Lifestyle Music Group artist roster: dynamic sibling ensemble Shelby 5. Hailing from Detroit, Michigan, Shelby 5 has wowed audiences throughout the U.S. and abroad with the unique flavor that they bring to Gospel music. The group has toured with Donnie McClurkin, performed at The Stellar Gospel Music Awards, appeared on Oxygen’s Preacher’s of New York and ministered at churches around the country – all as an independent group driven by a commitment to God, to their craft, and to each other as a family. Now, with the support of Lifestyle Music Group team, Shelby 5 is positioned for even higher heights. Bishop Clara Brown-Draughn is a walking miracle. Defying multiple doctors’ diagnoses, she has been hit with more health challenges than the average human being. But the singer, songwriter and pastor’s faith in God has never waned. A gifted vocalist, she has sung with Gospel greats such as Rance Allen and Shirley Caesar. The leader of True Love Evangelistic Ministries in Detroit, MI, Bishop Clara is called to inspire others through the ministry of music and the preached word. She will be inspiring even more people with her brand new single, “I’m Healed.” A spirited ballad, the song was just released and is available on iTunes, Amazon, Google Play and other digital music outlets. Bri (Briana Babineaux), who boasts nearly a half million Instagram followers, recently sat down with veteran radio personality, Gina Rodgers, for a laughter-filled conversation and a soul-stirring, in-studio performance that airs this Wednesday, May 10, 2017 @ 8:00 AM ET on SiriusXM Satellite’s Kirk Franklin’s Praise Channel 64. Bri talks about her meteoric rise to the top of the music charts, winning her first Stellar Award, being back in college and her first acting role in director Joel Kapity’s forthcoming dramatic film “I Am Your Keeper.” The GMA (Gospel Music Association) Foundation has announced its inductees and honorees for the annual GMA Honors Celebration set for Tuesday, May 9, at Lipscomb University’s Allen Arena. This year’s inductees include CCM artist Steve Green; Gospel legend Yolanda Adams; world-class Southern Gospel group Gold City Quartet and legendary management team and founders of Reunion Records, Michael Blanton and Dan Harrell. The event also honors individuals and organizations that are impacting our culture both past and present. This year’s honorees include Amy Grant for Helping Hands, Dr. Shirley Caesar for Shirley Caesar Outreach Ministries, Compassion International and Natalie Grant for Hope for Justice. Performers and presenters will be announced in the coming weeks. For ticket and table sponsor information, please visit www.gospelmusichalloffame.org. MegaFest – the internationally acclaimed four-day faith, film and family festival hosted by best-selling author, entrepreneur and pastor, Bishop T.D. Jakes – is returning to Dallas for the third time, attracting an estimated 100,000 visitors to Dallas/Fort Worth June 28 – July 1. BET NETWORKS and AEG announced participants in this year’s highly anticipated BETX Celebrity Basketball Game sponsored by Sprite® and Statefarm, taking place at BET Experience at L.A. LIVE, June 22-25, 2017. Players will include Nick Cannon, The Game, YG, Tank, Soulja Boy, Bell Biv DeVoe, DJ Mustard, Jidenna, Brandon T Jackson, Trevor Jackson, Doug Christie, Dave East, Stevie J, and Rotimi, alongside ESPN guest announcers Jemele Hill and Michael Smith. Tip off for the BETX Celebrity Basketball Game will take place at 12:00 p.m. PST and will be streamed LIVE to fans at home on www.bet.com. Michelle Prather, who’s spent 13 years as a member of the famed Kurt Carr & The Kurt Carr Singers is one of those rare precious skillful background singers for the Gospel music genre whose finally receiving her opportunity to pursue a solo career. Her debut single, “Smile” on SRT Entertainment will be available online on May 5 . Veronica Petrucci Plays Supporting Role in But Deliver Us From Evil Movie Coming Soon! Watch the Making Preview of But Deliver Us From Evil Movie Multiple award winner and Grammy nominee VaShawn Mitchell celebrates another Number 1 song, with his high-spirited and popular tune “Joy.” “Joy” has led the way for Mitchell’s seventh album Secret Place: Live in South Africa since its release last year. “Joy” has spent 13 consecutive weeks in the Top Five on the Gospel Airplay Charts, spending six of those weeks at #1 on the Mediabase Gospel Radio Chart. The popularity of the song has been abetted by the over 2 million Vevo views and 3 million plus audio streams. Rising Star Jermaine Dolly continues to build strong at gospel music radio with the second single, "Come And Knock On Our Door," lifted from his debut album, "The Dolly Express.". Dolly's second single is currently sitting at #14 on the Gospel Airplay chart. Jermaine Dolly's debut album, "The Dolly Express," will be available in stores and online Friday, May 19, 2017. The album is currently available for pre-order on iTunes, Google Play and Amazon. The Philadelphia native is no stranger to the music industry, having toured with Grammy Award Winner Tye Tribbett for six years; and he released a free mixtape to his fans on Christmas Day in 2015 titled, "Dollyology." Dolly's original style, unforgettable beard and viral videos have quickly made him one of the most celebrated newcomers in gospel music. Check out the enthralling new video from multiple GRAMMY®, Stellar, and Dove Award-winning Gospel superstar Donnie McClurkin, as the celebrated vocalist delivers a captivating worship experience in his live performance of “I Need You”, available on Vevo now. (Watch Donnie McClurkin, “I Need You” now: http://smarturl.it/INeedYou-V) Popular worship leader, Preashea Hilliard, soars to the top spot this week on Billboard’s Top Gospel Chart with “The Glory Experience.” Led by inspirational and relevant worship music, “The Glory Experience,” connects on all levels. The 15-track album is both effectual and powerful for corporate and personal worship time. 20 year-old Jekalyn Carr, has been busy in the studio recording new music for her forthcoming fourth album, ONE NATION UNDER GOD, on her Lunjeal Music Group label. She is set to finish recording a portion of her album LIVE! on Thursday, June 22nd at Brown Baptist Church in Southaven, Mississippi. Tamela Mann puts her stamp on a new fashion line on the next episode of The Manns airing Tuesday, May 2 at 8 p.m. ET on TV One. Tamela has a chance to follow her dream of creating a clothing line, but she only has a couple of days to impress the industry executives and put on a huge fashion show. Will she knock it out of the park or stumble on the runway? ********************************************************************************************************* We Spotlight Black Scientists: Fire Extinguisher - Thomas J. Martin - Pat. No. 125,063 Rotary Engine - Andrew J. Bread - Pat. No. 478,271 Pencil Sharper - John L. Love - Pat. No.594, 114 Bridle Bit- Lincoln F. Brown - Pat. No. 484, 994 Golf Tee - George F. Grant -Pat No. 638, 920 Air Conditioning Unit - Fredrick M. Jones - Pat. No. 2,475, 841 Automatic Fishing Device - George Cook - Pat. No. 625, 829 Lawn Sprinkler-Joseph H. Smith- Pat. No. 581, 785 Guitar - Robert F. Flemmings, Jr. - Pat. No. 338,727 Elevator - Alexander Miles - Pat. No. 371,207 ______________________________________________________ Gospel-Spotlight.com is an E-Magazine with it's focus on Contemporary & Traditional Gospel music. Gospel-Spotlight.com provides vital information to the Gospel Music Industry. We are Your Source for single and album charts, album reviews, audio interviews, artists spotlights and trends that occur in Gospel Music. We are your #1 "Inside Source." This E-Magazine is a tool for Record Companies, Artists, Retail stores, Gospel Music Lover's, Public Relations Firms, Management Companies, Advertisers Artists, Church Choirs and more." We depend on your donations. Make your donation at paypal hjrealj@aol.com Thank You. ___________________________________

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