Brotha' Percy

GOSPEL'S TOP 10 ALBUMS

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 13:25:00 -0400

"THE SOUND"

GOT GOSPEL?

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 16:24:00 -0400

NEW and UPCOMING!

GOSPEL MUSIC

AVAILABLE THIS MONTH

DA' T.R.U.T.H. - THE BIG PICTURE - CMR

PHILIP CATER & SOV - SONGS FROM THE STORM - CAD

MELINDA WATTS - PEOPLE GET READY - PROVIDENT

JORDIN SPARKS - Battlefield - 19/Jive Records

SHACHAH - Let The Light In - Cross Movement Records

AUGUST

SHERRI JONES MOFFETT - RENEWED - EMI Gospel

KARIMA KIBBLE - Just Karima - EMI Gospel

JAMES GREAR & COMPANY - Don't Waste Another Day -Habakkuk Music

CANTON JONES - Kingdom Business Part 2 - EMICMG

J. MOSS - VOLUME 3...JUST JAMES - Verity

KIRK WHALUM - The Gospel According To Jazz Chapter 3 - EMI

JAMES ROBERSON - Everybody Dance! - Universal Music Group - EMICMG

SEPTEMBER

CECE WINANS - Greatest Hits - Purespring

JOCELYN aka: INDIGO - The iNDI1st Project Breakthrough - EMI Gospel

FRED HAMMOND - Love Unstoppable - Zomba

TED WINN - God Believes In You - EMICMG

PASTOR CHRISTOPHER CHAPPELL - Blessing Me - EMI Gospel

KIERRA SHEARD - Best Of - EMI Gospel

ETTA JAMES - Songs Of Inspiration - EMICMG

OCTOBER

VARIOUS ARTISTS - GOTTA HAVE GOSPEL! CHRISTMAS - ZOMBA

THE CLARK FAMILY - Clark Family Christmas - KRW/EMI Gospel

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

IN TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL JACKSON

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:53:21 -0400

IN TRIBUTE

August 29, 1958 - June 25, 2009

At his best and at his worst, Michael Jackson never quite seemed to belong to this world � his talent too enormous to comprehend, his self-imposed fantastical seclusion too odd to understand � so envisioning an end never quite seemed possible, although in many ways the final chapter in his tragic rise and fall was written years ago.

Read Stephen Thomas Erlewine's insightful Commentary: HERE

ASK BROTHA PERCY

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:00:31 -0400

ASK

BROTHA PERCY

GOT A QUESTION? Send me an "E" at brothapercy@yahoo.com

...were you a fan of Michael Jackson?

...how do you feel about gay marriage?

...who do you like on Sunday Best this season?

...do you think the economy will turn itself around soon?

...what's currently playing in your ipod?

...you've got to be proud of the Obama family.

...have you seen BET's new gospel show, Generation Gospel?

...which were your least favorite gospel CD's of 2008?

...did you enjoy the Inauguration?

...might you be attending the Inauguration?

Bernard, Hoosick Falls, NY: Brotha Percy, were you a fan of Michael Jackson?

BP: Of course! I can't deny it, NO ONE entertained, nor will ever, quite like Michael Jackson! His artistry is unforgettable and I cannot think of any modern day entertainer that even comes close to the caliber of a "Michael Jackson." I enjoyed his music and videos and especially enjoyed his inspirational songs like, "Will You Be There," "Man In The Mirror," "Heal The World," "Earth Song," "Money" and "You Are Not Alone." A fan of Michael or not - everybody knew the name and not many of us will soon forget him.

Melvin, Charlotte, NC: Brotha Percy, how do you feel about gay marriage?

BP: What a question! Well, Mel, as of right now, (May 2009), I've been happily married, for 32 years, to a wonderful woman - ya feel me?.

Aida, Birmingham, AL: Brotha Percy, who do you like on BET's SUNDAY BEST this season?

BP: I've watched almost every episode so far and as of now, if I were judging this, I'd have to crown Latice Crawford Sunday Best; I can't quite label it, but she brings something different to the genre of gospel music. Besides her voice, I like her confidence, attitude and demeanor. I also like Y'Anna Crawley.

Jasmine, Detroit MI: Brotha Percy, I'm a Christian, but let me express something - the current economy is bad, real bad. Right now, I am employed and I do believe God, but this whole thing is a little scary. Do you think the economy will turn itself around soon?

BP: Jasmine, the economic picture will eventually look better, however, I feel it's bound to get worse before it gets worse before it gets better. (yes, I said "worse" twice). What America is experiencing now are consequences due to over-extending, over-building and over-spending. Folks were spending money as if they really had it! I can only suggest that you continue to trust God and know that this current circumstance does not change one iota of God's word. I view it somewhat like this - it's night......we're in the third hour of a twenty three hour flight......the Pilot instructs all passengers to buckle their seatbelts and stay seated because of some upcoming turbulence.....the plane wobbles and shakes, somewhat violently, as we find ourselves in the midst of some very, very serious turbulence......some people begin to cry; some begin to pray......it's a little freightening......all we can do is trust God that we will land safely, soon.

Anthony, Pittsburgh PA: Brotha Percy, what's currently playing in your ipod?

BP: Hmmm.............a few things, the new one by India.Arie, my Earth Wind & Fire box set and the new various artist project "Yes, We Can", but I'm sure you're referring to Gospel music, right? Right now, I'm enjoying the Crystal Aikin release, a song called "God Chaser" by Holy Boy, Donald Lawrence's new album and though I've truly had enough of my friend, Hez Walker singing about how people (and the devil) have devised schemes against him, I must admit I can't get enough of the track, "God's Favor" -- LFC, Marvin Sapp and D.J. Rogers make that song worth the listen!

Tiara, South Orange NJ: Brotha Percy, you've got to be proud of the Obama family! I am so elated with the image they portray - a close knit, successful, highly educated, African American family. It's about time!

BP: Oh yes, of course, I'm quite proud of our new First Family, but trust me, there are more African American families, just as close knit, successful and educated, in every State of America-however, the media's focus is always on the dysfunctional ones. You and I know better. By the way, do you remember the Cosby Show?

Shemar, Oakland, CA: Brotha Percy, have you seen BET's new gospel show, Generation Gospel - if so, what do you think of it?

BP: Yep, I watch it. It's not a bad concept - young people today have no problem saying that they enjoy gospel music. It's way too early to tell if this program will continue to go over well. I do hope that the show's producers will expose more of the up and coming young artists and allow the vibe (and feedback) of the young people to somewhat dictate which way this show should flow. The hosts have a good look, however, my girl Angel needs a little caffiene, I think.

Shelby, Detroit MI: Brotha Percy, which were your least favorite gospel CD's of 2008?

BP: Shelby, are you asking me this because I've yet to post my annual list of favorite CD's of the previous year? Let me think.........................

1. BRENT JONES & THE T.P. MOBB: "THE ULTIMATE WEEKEND" The project should have been titled, "The Ultimate Weekend Nightmare." For years, since his debut release, I have enjoyed the work of Brent Jones and his TP Mobb, but on this project they lost me; for me it was a real let-down to see such a talented and innovative ensemble miss the mark. I'm sure it didn't sell well at all. However, he is my dude and I await his next effort.

2. DAMITA HADDON: "NO LOOKING BACK." Not only is Damita a friend of mine, but a very talented vocalist. I loved her self titled debut in 2000, in fact, I've given her vocals air play back to the days when she was a part of the teenage girl quartet, ADORATION -N- PRAYZE (1991). My anticipation was high for this project, but tanked after finally hearing it. The title track was not bad, but the overall content and material of the project did not highlight (or fit) such a vocalist. I was unimpressed.

3. DARWIN HOBBS: "FREE." This is strange, so far the projects that I was least impressed with are from people I personally know. :-( (If any of you artists are reading these comments, please don't let my honesty disrupt our friendship)...........Darwin Hobbs is an amazing vocalist, psalmist and praise & worship leader. Every Hobbs album is in my collection, even this one; the only difference is, I don't listen to FREE. I understand Darwin's focus here, but the release was mediocre, in my humble opinion.

Nadine, Philadelphia PA: Brotha Percy, what are your thoughts on the Inauguration - did you enjoy it?

BP: From my warm. comfy sofa, in my living room, I enjoyed the historic event and day immensely with my family, including my granddaughters, two of which will have be told of this great day. Not that I wasn't, but President Obama (and First Lady, Michelle) make me proud to be an American. I've got a feeling Barack Obama is about to set a new standard for the role called "Commander in Chief." By the way, it's too bad Justice John Roberts flubbed while giving Mr. Obama the Oath of Office; I would think a Supreme Court Justice would have something like that committed to memory. Oh well, that makes the second mistake I've seen from the Supreme Court, that is if you count their declaring Bush the winner in the '04 election.

Chris, Brooklyn NY: Brotha Percy, might you be attending the Inauguration?

BP: Oh sure, Chris! In fact, I've got a seat now that I don't want - it's in the same row, same section, located between Illinois Governor, Rod Blagojevich and Ex-NY Governor, Eliot Spitzer -- you want them? Honestly? No, I'd like to be there, but I've elected to stay home and have a grand seat in front of my TV.

BIBLE'S MOST INSPIRING VERSES REVEALED

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 10:07:15 -0400

BIBLE'S MOST INSPIRING VERSES REVEALED

iPhone users have helped identify the most inspiring Bible verses. ReignDesign, developers of the popular 'Bible Promises' application for iPhone, recently released a new version which allows people to 'favorite' their most inspiring Bible verses. By analyzing information from thousands of church-goers across the world, they were able to compile a list of the most popular verses.

1. Isaiah 40:31: But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

2. Deuteronomy 31:6: Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

3. Psalms 103:2-3: Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits - who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.

4. Galatians 6:9: Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

5. Philippians 4:6: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

By downloading the app, iPhone and iPod touch users can suggest new verses and improve the list. 'Bible Promises', a collection of over 500 Bible verses organized by topic, can be downloaded from the iTunes App Store.

Notes to Editor

No Internet connection is required, so there are no ongoing costs for using the application. The verses are available in four translations and two languages: New International Version (NIV), English Standard Version (ESV), King James Version (KJV) and Reina Valera (Spanish). The app can be downloaded from the iTunes App Store by visiting the Bible Promises website.

Over 500 Bible verses are organized by topic. The full list of topics is: Addiction, Anger, Belief, Boredom, Children, Contentment, Courage, Death, Encouragement, Envy, Faith, Fear, Forgiveness, Gossip, Grace, Healing, Health, Hope, Humility, Joy, Loneliness, Love, Lust, Marriage, Meekness, Money, Obedience, Patience, Peace, Perseverance, Praise, Prayer, Pride, Redemption from Sin, Repentance, Righteousness, Sabbath, Salvation, Seeking God, Success, Suffering, Temptation, Thanksgiving, Trust, Truth, Wisdom, Work, Worry, Worship.

To request a promo code for a free copy of Bible Promises, please contact info@reigndesign.com.

Press Release: Christian Newswire

JAKES ESCAPES EXPLOSION

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 13:36:11 -0400

T.D. JAKES ESCAPES GAS EXPLOSION

Explosion at his home in Fort Worth

T.D. Jakes, Pastor of the Dallas mega church The Potter's House says that his last-minute change of plans is what saved him from being killed in a natural gas explosion that occured at his home.

TD Jakes told his church this at this past Sunday's service at The Potter House in Dallas that he would normally been getting dressed near where the blast occured last week at his house had he not suddenly had the feeling he should call off a planned meeting.

Jakes wasn't anywhere close to the gas blast which was centered in a sunroom which was part of his house in Fort Worth.

Reports say no one was injured in the blast.

According to Fire Department Lt. Kent Worley that investigators have ruled the blast to be accidental. Worley said the sunroom had a gas-fired pool heater and a large gas-fired barbecue grill.

TD Jakes praised God during the service for keeping him safe.

According to Jakes it was "inconvenient, but alive."

We just need to sometimes pay attention to the still small voice.

Courtesy: Christian Web News

KIRK THE TEXTER

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 16:40:06 -0400

SEVEN-TIME GRAMMY WINNER KIRK FRANKLIN TAKES PEOPLE BEHIND THE MESSAGE OF HIS MUSIC BY TEXTING FANS AT CONCERTS

American Bible Society Teams Up with Multi-Platinum Artist Kirk Franklin

Kirk Franklin, the biggest selling contemporary Christian artist in Soundscan history with more than 20 No. 1 singles and host of BET's Sunday Best is teaming up with the American Bible Society to share the real inspiration behind his music. He is using both music and technology to encourage fans to connect with the Bible through "The Bible is My Guide," a national program to motivate young people to engage with God's Word.

Franklin, who Miley Cyrus calls her "favorite person to listen to in the shower" (Access Hollywood), will invite fans to send him text messages during his upcoming summer concerts. Through his partnership with the American Bible Society's "The Bible is My Guide" project, fans who text message Franklin will receive daily Bible verses sent directly to their mobile phone free of charge. From the stage, Franklin will also encourage fans to read the book that provides the inspiration behind his greatest hits--the Bible.

"I've found the process of reading the Bible and writing a song is life-changing, and I'm always eager to share the inspiration behind my music. Being a part of the American Bible Society's 'Bible is My Guide' project is a huge statement about the man I am trying to become," said Franklin.

Thanks to technology, fans do not have to be present at Franklin's concert to receive Bible verses. The American Bible Society also provides Bible verses via email, voicemail, text message, podcast and RSS feed free of charge to anyone who subscribes at Kirk.AmericanBible.org.

"Kirk's music is inspiring a generation of music fans with the life changing message of the Bible," said Lamar Vest, president and CEO of the American Bible Society.

Franklin is the third music artist to sign on for the "The Bible is My Guide" project. Kicked off in April 2007 by New York Yankee Mariano Rivera, the Spanish "La Biblia es mi Guia" project has also tapped celebrities such as the rock band Rojo, 10-time Grammy winner Juan Luis Guerra and New York Yankee Bernie Williams.

Franklin is not the only one sharing how the Bible's message has changed his life. He has asked hundreds of youth ministers around the country to join him in encouraging youth to follow the principals of the Bible. Also, hundreds of personal videos can be found at ShareYourStoryNow.org--a site where people can post personal stories and see how others are exploring, engaging and experiencing the Bible's message. The site also contains videos of other popular music artists who have shared their favorite verse or what the Bible means to them, including Grammy winners Steven Curtis Chapman, TobyMac, Rebecca St. James and former American Idol Mandisa.

About The American Bible Society:
Headquartered in New York City, the mission of the 193-year-old American Bible Society is to make the Bible available to every person in a language and format each can understand and afford, so that all people may experience its life changing message.

Press Release: Christian Newswire

SHERRI JONES-MOFFETT IS RENEWED

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 15:27:49 -0400

NEW SEASON!

NEW LABEL!

NEW MUSIC!

SHERI JONES-MOFFETT IS RENEWED!!!

Debut Solo Album RENEWED in stores August 11.

Sheri Jones- Moffett is the voice you know and love. From The Tri-City Singers to her duo work in Ted & Sheri, Moffett has been known as the team player and the featured vocalist, yet this summer she breaks out on her own and hits the scene as the solo artist. The powerful voice behind many hit songs including the inspirational smash "Encourage Yourself," Jones-Moffett recently inked a solo recording deal with top label EMI Gospel.

"We have loved working with Sheri since Donald Lawrence first introduced her to us as part of The Tri-City Singers a number of years ago - we feel she has been part of our family," said Ken Pennell President EMI Gospel. "So to collaborate even more closely with her now in her first venture as a solo artist is especially fulfilling."

The first effort from Jones-Moffett & EMI Gospel is the power-packed album RENEWED. A bold and brash offering that is unapologetically diverse, this vibrant body of work is unlike anything Gospel music has heard in a long while and Moffett's versatility is evident.

The lead single and title track "Renewed" is Moffett's nod to one of her favorite inspirations - Motown. From the very first guitar lick the groove draws you in, while lyrically it speaks encouragement and renewal - a message that just about anyone can connect to. Other highlights are the outstanding pop track "Free Indeed" with an undeniable bounce and a beat; and "Grace of God," a gospel ballad that showcases Moffett's soaring and clear vocals, reminding us that we never walk alone.

Jones-Moffett's mentor, super-producer Donald Lawrence says this of Sheri Jones-Moffett "Not only am I excited about the anticipated solo release from Sheri Jones-Moffett, I am extremely proud of her growth as a Singer/Songwriter/Music Executive/Wife and Mother! She's talented and a tremendous jewel for The Kingdom. If life has drained you ... Get Renewed!"

"RENEWED" available everywhere August 11, 2009.

Press Release: Ignition PR

MALACO, BEBE AND CECE TEAM UP

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 15:54:45 -0400

MALACO RECORDS WITH

BEBE & CECE WINANS LAUNCH

B & C RECORDS

New CD available in September

Malaco Music Group announced today the signing of Gospel/R&B music superstars BeBe and CeCe Winans to an exclusive distribution deal for B & C Records, their first joint record label venture. With Malaco Records, a legendary southern R&B and Gospel label as their new distribution partner, the brother and sister music duo has launched their new label with the release of the single, �Close to You,� currently at radio. �Close to You� is the first from BeBe and CeCe�s upcoming CD, due in stores late September.

�As a true fan of their music for many years, this is one of the most exciting signings that I have made in recent years,� said Tommy Couch, President of Malaco Music Group. �I am very honored to bring these two stellar and respected artists to the Malaco Music Group family, and see nothing but a bright and prosperous future ahead. This new partnership represents for us the first of many steps toward building the Malaco Music Group into a major independent leader in the urban music world.�

Lionel Ridenour, Head of Malaco�s Urban Music Department, added: �We are more than excited about our partnership with BeBe and CeCe Winans, we are overjoyed. BeBe and CeCe Winans are international music superstars. They are pioneers of both traditional and contemporary gospel, as well as multi-platinum award-winning R&B music stars. We are very proud that BeBe and CeCe have chosen Malaco Music Group as the home for their new venture B & C Records.�

�With the rich heritage of so many great gospel legends, such as the Reverend James Cleveland, The Caravans, The Major Mass Choirs from Savoy and Malaco, we are elated to continue the tradition with superstar artists BeBe and CeCe Winans,� added D. A. Johnson, Malaco Music Group�s Director of Gospel Music Division.

BeBe and CeCe�s 20 year career in music includes multiple platinum and gold albums in both the Gospel and R&B music genres, 5 Grammys, 8 Doves, more than 12 Stellar Awards, 2 NAACP Awards, 12+ charting R&B singles, and countless #1 Christian and Gospel radio singles.

Their debut self-titled album, released in 1987, nabbed both Grammy and Stellar noms and a Dove Award, only the second Dove Award to be awarded to an African American Group in the category �Group of the Year.� The single �For Always� from the album earned BeBe and CeCe their first Grammy. Their second album, Heaven, was the first Gospel album to reach #1 on the Billboard sales chart and gave us two hit singles, �Lost Without You,� and �Celebrate Life.�

This long-awaited reunion album is a culmination of gained experiences over the last few years and promises to please the die-hard BeBe and CeCe fans and garner new ones as well.

Press Release: MALACO Music Group

REV. TIMOTHY WRIGHT

Tue, 05 May 2009 15:30:21 -0400

REV. TIMOTHY WRIGHT

June 17, 1947 - April 24, 2009

Source: NY NEWSDAY

Source: WINS RADIO

Source: BLACVOICES.COM

Source: NY DAILY NEWS

Source: WLIB RADIO, NEW YORK CITY

Source: NATIONAL ACTION NETWORK

Source: NY DAILY NEWS