Circuit Judge Kenneth Lester, Jr. will be removed from the second-degree murder trial of George Zimmerman by order of a ruling made today. The Fifth District Court of Appeal in Daytona Beach granted this request made by Zimmerman’s attorney, Mark O’Mara, who did not believe Lester could be fair to his client. Lester set Zimmerman’s bail at $1 million during a July 5 bond hearing. That hearing was scheduled after Zimmerman had been taken back into custody after previously being released on a $150,000 bond.

During his original April 20 bond hearing, Zimmerman’s family members depicted themselves under oath as being destitute. Subsequent evidence submitted to Judge Lester revealed that Zimmerman and his wife, Shellie Zimmerman, in reality had $130,000 in assets. Lester ordered Zimmerman back to jail to await a new hearing in order to set a bond amount appropriate to the couple’s means. Shellie Zimmerman has since been charged with perjury for testifying on April 20 that she and her husband were penniless. Documentation shows she and her husband had been moving portions of the $130,000 they had collected from supporters between various accounts.

Judge Lester took the occasion of the second hearing to give his opinion of Zimmerman and his wife misleading the court. At the July 5 hearing, “the judge set Zimmerman’s bond at $1 million but also accused him of showing ‘blatant disregard for the judicial system’ and ‘manipulating the system for his own benefit,’” according to the Orlando Sentinel.

The Fifth District Court of Appeal ruled that these statements were an indication that Judge Lester should be removed.

“Although many of the allegations in Zimmerman’s motion [for a new judge], standing alone, do not meet the legal sufficiency test, and while this is admittedly a close call,” the appelate panel stated in its opinion, “upon careful review we find that the allegations, taken together, meet the threshold test of legal sufficiency.”

Circuit Judge Debra S. Nelson is likely to take over the case if this ruling stands.

While attempts were made to reach out for comment to Assistant State Attorney Bernie de la Rionda, who is prosecuting Zimmerman’s case, his office declined to comment.

Zimmerman’s attorney, Mark O’Mara, responded, “We appreciate the appellate court reviewing our petition and we believe it is the correct decision,” in a statement released to the press.

George Zimmerman was charged with second-degree murder for killing Trayvon Martin, an unarmed black teen, in Sanford, Florida on February 26. His immediate release under Florida’s controversial Stand Your Ground law, which does not require retreat from a deadly threat, sparked protests nationwide demanding Zimmerman’s arrest. Zimmerman was arrested six weeks after the fatal incident.

Jonathan McReynolds to release anticipated debut album, LIFE MUSIC on September 25^th on Light Records/Tehillah Music Group.  McReynolds heralded as Gospel’s newest rising star presents a fresh and modern album that hits all the right notes. 

McReynolds, an innovative musician, songwriter and remarkable talent, made a name for himself with the 2010 release of an underground EP entitled The Very Unofficial EP of Jonathan McReynolds.  He describes it as “a compilation of seven of my best dorm-room productions.” That mix-tape gave way to the now revamped and updated full project entitled LIFE MUSIC. 

McReynolds is the perfect blend of contemporary styling with messages of love, life, hope and honesty.  His perspective is refreshingly direct and the songs are poised, smooth and honest.  It is R&B and Gospel at its best — love songs to a loving God.  His ‘coffeehouse sound’ is true ministry that reaches younger people where they are right now.  McReynolds who is only in his early 20’s speaks a language that his generation can understand. 

One of the songs coming out of McReynolds’ dorm room and included on LIFE MUSIC is “No Gray.”   Touching people across the country, the song and Jonathan’s performances of it made its way around the web where it caught the attention of Bishop Paul Morton and Pastor Jerry Parries at Tehillah Music Group. The song speaks volumes about how McReynolds shares the gospel message.  With a cool vibe and relatable lyrics it talks about giving God your all. 

The current radio single, “I Love You,” is equal parts likeable, catchy and uncomplicated. Reaching the top 20 on Billboard’s Gospel singles chart, the song shows off McReynolds’ brilliant vocals, revealing heart, strength, and maturity.  

McReynolds is right where contemporary music is – an open letter of emotions and lyrics of everyday experiences and struggles.  McReynolds shines with his messages of moving forward and gratefulness for God’s love.  “Coming Out,” offers inspired songwriting and vocals, while the really beautiful “Lovin’ Me,” with McReynolds on the piano, speaks to thankfulness to God.   And across the album, the production does not overpower his sumptuous vocals. 

Through his music, McReynolds humbly speaks for his generation “I’m doing it the way God gave it to me … you’ll find what me and my generation go through on a daily basis: insecurities, battles against the world, self-discovery and the ebbs and flows of living in Christ.” 

Earlier this year BEC Recordings’ Kutless released their newest studio release Believer to much media and sales acclaim debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard Christian & Gospel Chart as well as No. 1 on the iTunes Christian Albums chart. The album’s debut radio single “Carry Me To The Cross” reached listeners across the country as it held strong at No. 1 for six weeks on the Inspo chart as well as in the Top 10 at National Christian Audience, CHR and AC Indicator charts. Now Kutless is back with the second single from Believer with the emotional “Even If,” and it is already impacting radio listeners.

“Even If” continues to build momentum at radio each week. At AC Monitored it has been the highest debuting single and already charting in the Top 30 as well as at AC Indicator where it continues to climb entering this week at No. 17. At CHR, “Even If” has moved up to No. 22 and into the Top 20 at No. 16 on Inspo.

“From a spiritual perspective, ‘Even If’ is probably the most difficult and challenging song on our new record,” explains frontman Jon Micah Sumrall. “It directly addresses the question of ‘what do we do when the answer to our prayers is no?’ I have grown to realize that while we often pray for temporary or immediate comfort, God is doing a work on an eternal scale that far exceeds anything we could have ever imagined. He never promises that life will be easy, only that He will be faithful to never leave us or forsake us, and He promises that the end of the story will be glorious.”

Kutless wants listeners to know that even when hurt and heartache persist, they must trust that God knows best, and that while we may not understand immediately why we must endure these things, ultimately He is in control and is creating what will some day be a glorious ending.

“Two weeks after buying Believer a good friend and sister in the Lord passed away due to cancer. The evening before she passed I watched the slide show video of “Even If.” Having been blessed by this song, my thoughts were put in the right perspective, remembering the awesomeness of our God and His ways are not our ways. The healing may not have come in this life for her, but God chose to heal her in taking her home.” – Kim

“When I first heard “Even If,” I have to be honest and say the words stung but now they bring me comfort. I know that physical and/or medical healing may never come, but I continue to sing His praises. I would not trade this journey for anything as I know He is the good and faithful one who is working through me.” – Jennifer

Kutless will be headlining their own tour this September along with Fireflight and special guests Hyland, Rhett Walker Band and Eric Samuel Timm. The Compassion International sponsored Believer tour will begin on September 12 in Colorado and conclude on October 28 in Michigan. Tour dates are listed below.

Media also have praised Kutless’ newest release stating that the lyrics are “thought-provoking, moving and requesting change” as well as that the album is the “band’s crowning achievement” and “by far their best work.”

About Kutless
This Portland, Oregon-based Kutless has emerged as one of the premiere rock, worship bands. With over two million albums sold, a RIAA Gold-selling album, AC Song of the Year in 2010, and 11 No. 1 radio singles, Kutless has transformed from that new rock band from Oregon to the one new bands look up to, the band whose music is all over the radio in multiple formats and on major tours. Believer finds Kutless using a decade of growth to deliver an expertly crafted set of songs with as much diversity in the music as there is consistency in the message.

Multiple GRAMMY Award Nominee and Stellar Award Winner Tye Tribbett has been breaking ground in gospel for years now. The Gospel singer, songwriter, and preacher is known for his edgy and energetic live performances and for chart-topping hits like “Everything”, “No Way” and “Victory”. Always thinking outside the box, the pioneer is prepping for brand new live DVD/CD called “Greater Than”, to take place in two different locations. On Friday, August 17th at 7PM EST, the “Fresh” singer recorded live at Faith Center Ministries (5555 NW 95th Avenue, Sunrise, FL 33351). On this Friday, the artist will be holding part two in the City of Angels. The live West Coast recording will happen at Angelus Temple (1100 Glendale Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026) on August 31st at 7PM PST.

General admission is $10 per person and reserved seating is $20. Fans can also purchase the “Greater Than” Package which consists of a meet & greet with Tye, a private rehearsal session, reserved seating and dinner with Tye Tribbett, his band and singers. Special rates are available for groups of 10 or more. Tickets can be purchased at www.greaterthannation.com.

Tribbett’s unique concept for the live recording comes directly from scripture. “It’s important that we, the body of Christ, point to something and someone greater than ourselves,” says Tye. “This CD is about getting the focus back to God and acknowledging that He is greater than anything or anyone. The Bible says, ‘Greater is he that is in us than he that is in the world.’ When I read that verse recently, the “er” in greater jumped out at me. It implies that he that is in the world is great. If we’re honest, the pull of the world is great. But truth is GOD is GREATER!!”

For more information on Greater Than, log on to www.greaterthannation.com

Finishing off its highest rated season in series history, SUNDAY BEST season five culminates Sunday, September 2nd at 8:00 P.M.* with two back-to-back episodes featuring electrifying performances by some of today’s top gospel and soul hit makers including Kurt Carr, Marvin Winans, Ledisi, Tye Tribbett, Israel Houghton and Marvin Sapp. SUNDAY BEST judges Yolanda Adams and Donnie McClurkin and host Kirk Franklin are also slated to take the stage to deliver rousing sets of their most celebrated tracks.

After nine weeks of fierce competition, the field has narrowed to two finalists, South Carolina’s Joshua Rogers and Kansas’ Alexis Spight, going head to head in the finale. In addition to the coveted SUNDAY BEST title, the winner of season five will receive a national recording contract with Music World Gospel, a cash prize, and an exclusive prize from Ford. SUNDAY BEST season five is hosted by Kirk Franklin with celebrity judges Pastor Donnie McClurkin, Yolanda Adams and Cece Winans with vocal mentor Kim Burrell.

Watch the video performances below and vote for your favorite.  You have until 12:00 PM EST on Saturday, September 1, 2012 to vote. There are three ways to vote:

For continuous SUNDAY BEST updates, please visit http://www.bet.com/Sunday Best. Also, follow SUNDAY BEST on Twitter at www.twitter.com/BETSundayBest (hash tag: #BETSundayBest) and Facebook fan page at http://www.facebook.com/BETSundayBest.

Another Gospel star is considering a big move to the lone star state.  Earnest Pugh is in talks to move to Houston, Texas as minister of music of Silverlake Church.  

The budding Mega-Church is lead by Pastor Reginald DeVaughn, who founded one of the fastest growing churches in the suburban area of Pearland 18 years ago.  

Path MEGAzine was the first to learn about discussions that would bring the musical talents of Earnest Pugh from Washington, DC to a prominent suburb of Houston called Pearland.  

There is apparently a verbal agreement in place that is not inked on paper, but both parties seem optimistic about getting the deal done.  “I am very optimistic about the Houston situation, but unfortunately we have not formally established all the details yet says Earnest Pugh, Pastor DeVaughn and I are still negotiating and trying our best to identify an actual start date.” 

Mentored by the legendary Richard Smallwood, Pugh has had a long journey to become one of Gospel’s most marketed talents.  With hits like “Rain on Us,” and “I Need Your Glory,” Pugh was Dubbed “Gospel Music’s Leading Man,” because of his Billboard Chart success.  Such experience can really transfer over to worship services, and set the atmosphere.  An atmosphere that Pastor DeVaughn hopes to have in place soon.

Pastor DeVaughn hopes to have Earnest in place by October. “October will be a month of taking it to the next level,” DeVaughn emphatically tells PATH. 

Earnest Pugh will join a growing list of artists that are flocking to Houston and surrounding areas.  No longer a Gospel secret, Houston is home to artists Yolanda Adams, James Fortune, Kim Burrell, Le’Andria Johnson, Brian Courtney Wilson, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Zacardi Cortez, Shawn McLemore and a plethora of others.  The community of Houston buys up albums, consistently ranking in the top 10 among CD units purchased according to Nielsen Soundscan.

Silverlake’s Church website boasts over 5,000 members belonging to the flock, and the church plans to expand and enhance the Pearland area by building on 40 acres of land.

PATH will keep you updated on the news as it develops. 

Hypocrite Greek origin: hypokritḗs – a stage actor, hence one who pretends to be what he is not. Standard definition: a person who puts on a false appearance of virtue or religion or acts in contradiction to his or her stated beliefs.

Experience the electrifying collision of authentic Soul and bangin’ Hip Hop music encased in the powerful Word of GOD. Popular Christian Soul Duo Joint Heirs teams up with Christian music’s most dynamic and fastest lyrically speaking rap artist Andale’ in a mixtape that addresses the thought-provoking, soul-searching question – Are you a hypocrite???

Exclusive Free Download on Rapzilla.com

The FREE Mixtape features all new tracks including their first collaboration and single “Beelevuh”; Joint Heirs’ throwback 70’s soul hit “Supernatural”; and the long awaited and highly anticipated all new track from Andale’ “Put Yo Handz Together”.

Watch the video single “Beelevuh” below.

Music lovers and fans everywhere are anxiously awaiting the September 4th release of inspirational recording artist Lexi’s new album ‘Phenomenal’ from Malaco Records. With a distinct, inspirational sound, the CD’s first single “Burn It All Down” is riding high on the gospel music charts and resonating in the hearts of listeners.

With a career that spans over a decade and having worked with some of the biggest names in both gospel and secular music such as Fred Hammond, Vanessa Bell Armstrong and the late Gerald Levert, Lexi is praying that her fifth recording takes listeners on a spiritual journey and brings them closer to God. When speaking about Phenomenal, she says, “I asked the Lord to please put me in the position to bless people. That’s my passion. And I believe that God is helping me do that.”

In addition to prepping for the September release of Phenomenal, Lexi, a devoted mother of one son, stays busy running her own company, Frontline Productions, hosting her talk show, The Lexi Show, now in its sixth season on the Word Network and serving as the entertainment correspondent for the syndicated radio program, The Yolanda Adams Morning Show.