Fantasia Barrino reportedly broke down while performing on her 28th birthday in Trinidad, using her Christian faith to deal with the emotional issues that she was undergoing on stage.

Barrino reportedly performed in front of hundreds of fans last Saturday, in the Port-of-Spain section of the Caribbean country. While the 2004 “American Idol” winner encouraged her fans to dance and have a good time during the show, she also admitted that she had been through a great deal.

Still, Barrino told her fans that she was blessed.

“I have to tell God thank you because He has blessed me. Just when I thought it was all over, He kept blessing me,” Barrino told her audience, according to the Trinidadian Guardian newspaper. “He’s always been there. I made it through because of God…Everything I went through is my testimony.”

However, Barrino became emotional while speaking about the music industry and her spiritual side with fans. The Grammy Award-winning singer told her audience that the music industry is “very snakish” which resulted in her dealing with a great deal of negativity in her career.

“This year, we lost Whitney Houston…They just wouldn’t leave her alone,” Barrino said. “They did not understand that she was only human. We lose family, friends, all for the love of money.”

Click Here to read the full report on Christianpost.com  

Lamp Mode Recordings has released Json’s new music video for the single, “Brand New,” from the album Growing Pains, which debuted at #4 on the iTunes Hip-Hop Chart when it released in February. One of this year’s most anticipated Christian hip-hop releases, Growing Pains features collaborations with Lecrae, Mikeschair, Benjah, Jai and more.

“‘Brand New’ is a hype song about what it means for the believer to be made new in the image of Christ,” explains Json. “Brand New is one of those songs that just makes you wanna move. The video simply adds to that feeling. If you’ve been made brand new, then this should be your anthem.”

The song and video feature Lamp Mode newcomer God’s Servant, as well as Steve T. 

Diverse Christian singer and songwriter Orlando “Substance” Rodriguez continues to position his ministry for global impact and develop music to reach people from various cultures and ages. His contemporary worship, urban gospel and pop Christian blend of music and astute gift for songwriting has the Michigan native embarking on a year of concerts and a new partnership with America’s largest African-American owned and operated Christian media company. Substance and Urban Ministries, Inc have developed a partnership that will greater serve and broaden the impact of ministry within urban churches.

UMI’s collaboration with artists like Substance provides valuable resources and strategic initiatives that aid in delivering the gospel of Jesus Christ through music. With this divine partnership, the anointed music ministry of Substance can be heard to a vast audience and UMI will be able to deliver bible-based curriculum to more communities across the country.

Substance is widely known for his sincere ability to reflect his passion for Jesus Christ. Substance has in a short time established a committed following that crosses genres from urban gospel to Contemporary Worship. This fusion of sound was cultivated early as he was raised in the west suburbs of Grand Rapids, Michigan in a Puerto Rican household. The singer/songwriter has advanced his skills over the years penning an extensive catalog of music and launching his own production studio.

Substance is finishing up his forthcoming project TURN THE WORLD OFF produced by Chuck Alkazian (Percy Bady, Desmond Pringle, Christina Aguilera). He has also collaborated with some of the industries’ most prolific and sought after songwriters – Eddie Tucker, Steve Siler, Dwight Liles and Tony Wood.

Pictured L-R: C. Jeffrey Wright – Urban Ministries CEO; Orlando “Substance” Rodriguez; Endon Anderson and Frank Walton – Urban Ministries.

Urban Ministries, Inc. is the largest independent, African American-owned and operated Christian media company. We publish Christian education resources, including Bible studies, Sunday School and Vacation Bible School curriculum, books, movies, and websites designed for African American churches and individuals seeking a Christ-centered perspective on faith and life issues.

Grammy® and Tony Award-Winner Heather Headley announces production of her new record slated for release on September 25, 2012 featuring new R&B tracks, stirring Gospel songs, and cuts from the upcoming production of The Bodyguard where Headley reprises Whitney Houston’s role as Rachel Marron. The highly-anticipated CD project is released by in:ciite Media and its distribution partner EMI-CMG Christian Music Distribution.

Born on the Caribbean island of Trinidad the daughter of a pastor, Headley started singing and playing piano in church at a young age. Since, her multi-faceted career has been a blessing. Headley won a Tony Award in 2000 for best actress in a musical for her role in Aida and originated the role of Nala in Broadway’s The Lion King. In 2002, her debut album This Is Who I Am was nominated for two Grammy® Awards, and in 2010, she won a Grammy® in the best contemporary R&B Gospel album for Audience of One. Headley reprises the role of Rachel Marron in The Bodyguard when it debuts on West End at the Adelphi Theatre in London in fall 2012.

“I’m honored to play Rachel in the musical version of The Bodyguard, but I’m also excited to bring new music to my fans on my upcoming CD project,” said Headley. “I encourage fans to participate and visit my website to give me feedback on the unfinished tracks.”

This summer fans can participate by visiting www.heatherheadley.com to give feedback on the unfinished tracks for the new CD, which Headley is recording in May in Nashville. Fans can become a part of the official street team and stay connected for the latest songs and announcements by following Headley on Twitter at @HHTeamOfficial and @HeatherHeadley.

IMMERSE, the Gospel Music Association’s Music Training Experience, is pleased to announce the fourth annual event, to be held July 23-25 at Rocketown in Nashville, TN. An opening night worship event will be held July 22 to kick off IMMERSE and start participants with a time of inspiration and focus.

For the first time, all attendees will receive a complementary one-year “iMembership” to the Gospel Music Association which includes the privilege of voting in the annual GMA Dove Awards. As an added incentive for early registration, anyone who registers for IMMERSE before December 31 of this year will be allowed to vote in the 43rd Annual GMA Dove Awards.

Up and coming indie artists, songwriters and future business leaders will all find something to gain from the event which offers unparalleled training, intimate concerts, professional feedback and individual opportunities to connect with music experts. IMMERSE aims to continue to create a sense of community and camaraderie among the attendees and professionals who seek to spread the Gospel through music.

Along with new incentives, IMMERSE will be held at Rocketown in downtown Nashville. Founded by Christian music icon, Michael W. Smith, Rocketown moved into it’s new location earlier this year, creating an environment that both fosters community among the registrants and provides great flexibility for the various production elements unique to the IMMERSE conference.

Rates for IMMERSE 2012 begin at just $199 if registration is submitted before March 31, 2012.

“It is our desire to provide an atmosphere where creativity, camaraderie and learning can thrive,” says Jackie Patillo, the Executive Director of the Gospel Music Association. “The IMMERSE stage is set to welcome up-and-coming artists and songwriters to share their talents in front of today’s leading music professionals. As well as uncover some of the mysteries of artist development and music industry standards.”

Conference speakers, competition judges and live performers will be announced in the upcoming weeks.

Programming will include classes in music business, songwriting and artist development. As in past years, IMMERSE will offer unprecedented access to some of the most influential and established names in Christian music.

For more information on IMMERSE, please visit online at: www.experienceimmerse.com.

The NAACP brings their 103rd Annual convention to Houston, Texas July 7th – 12th at the George R. Brown Convention Center.

The line-ups and topics of discussion are stacked with spiritual leaders and notable Gospel artists.

Some of the spiritual highlights of this year’s event will be Pastor Fredereck Haynes speaking at the Prayer Breakfast Sunday, July 8th.

Rev. Dr. Haynes is a member of the NAACP’s Religious Affairs Committee and Pastor Friendship West Baptist Church, Dallas, TX for nearly 30 years. Haynes is known for his work against racial, social and economic injustice. His church has grown from 500 to more than 12,000 members.  Haynes also is the author of “Healing Our Broken Village” and the daily devotional “Soul Fitness.”

The convention will feature a religious leaders luncheon on July 9th featuring Reverend Josh DuBois. DuBois is the Executive Director of the White House Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships. Also scheduled to appear is Bishop Henry Williamson, Bishop William H. Graves, Reverend Nelson B. Rivers among others.

Yolanda Adams is set to minister in song at the Gospel Extravaganza which takes place on Wednesday, July 11th.

Other highlights of this year’s convention include Vice President Joe Biden who is set to speak Thursday July 12th. This is the first time Mr. Biden will address the NAACP’s Convention as Vice President.

“We are honored to welcome Vice President Joe Biden to our convention,” stated NAACP President and CEO Benjamin Todd Jealous. “This is an important election year and communities of color will play a huge role in deciding the outcome in any number of races across the country. As such, we are pleased that both major political parties will be represented at this year’s convention.”

Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney is also scheduled to appear Wednesday, July 11th.  

Always a hit is the action forums and the Author Pavilion, featuring your favorite authors’ best-selling books.

A number of Pastors, Gospel artists and activists not mentioned will be in attendance. For additional information visit the NAACP website by clicking here.

Buzz has been surrounding new solo artist Anita Wilson and her debut release, Worship Soul. The brand new project from the Donald Lawrence protégé captures the worshipper and gifted songwriter at her finest with eleven soul-stirring songs. Wilson’s lead single, “Speechless”, has been getting rave reviews as well as it soars up the gospel music charts. The riveting single is currently at #11 on the Mediabase Chart and at #18 on the BDS Chart. The song, penned by acclaimed songwriter and producer Rick Robinson, is an unforgettable, passionate love song to God that Anita delivers flawlessly. Slipping in a few bars of “If I Can’t Say A Word” by Lawrence, the track leaves the listener wanting more.

Not only is Anita known for her stunning vocals as a member of Donald Lawrence’s Company, specifically on the song, “Happy Being Me” from The Law of Confession CD, but her inimitable style has put her in high demand as a background singer for gospel greats such as Hezekiah Walker, Marvin Sapp, DeWayne Woods and Vanessa Bell Armstrong. She serves on the music staff as Praise and Worship Leader at the Fellowship Baptist Church in Chicago, Illinois, under the leadership of Pastor Charles Jenkins.

Growing up in East St. Louis, the songstress began singing at the age of five. A “PK”, preacher’s kid, Anita practically grew up between the pews of her father’s church. As she developed her singing style, she merged gospel with jazz and R&B influences from artists such as Sarah Vaughn, Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder. Taking the passion of worship and mixing it with a heart of soul, Anita Wilson has created a style all her own.

Here’s what people are saying about Anita Wilson:

“Anita’s song ‘Speechless’ brings me to tears…in a word, AMAZING!” – Marvin Sapp

“Anita is a great, great singer who possesses priceless tone to her voice. Her debut album introduces a new genre. A soulful voice wrapped in songs of Worship…Worship Soul. Don’t sleep on this album!” – Donald Lawrence

“I Absolutely LOVE the single ‘Speechless!!’ It’s refreshing to hear and a great love song to the Lord.” -Eileen Collier, Program Director WHAL FM/Memphis

“Anita’s music and ministry is a true blessing to the body of Christ. Her voice is soothing as is glides across notes with ease. Her single ‘Speechless’ always makes me speechless.” – Sheilah Belle, The Belle, The Belle Report

For more information on Anita Wilson, log on to www.msanitawilson.com.

Keith Williams Senior Vice President and EPM Music Group recording artist is a man wearing many hats these days and whose cup couldn’t get fuller seems to have been blessed yet again with his recent signing to Jewel Artist Management (J.A.M.) a company who desires for their artist talents to be seen, heard, and more importantly for their message to be told and received.

J.A.M. is a faith based Artist Management and Development Company currently based in Bayonne, NJ, which holds the mission of bringing Godliness back to the Inspirational /Gospel Music industry. With Keith Williams being a sultry tenor with polished and measured tones it’s believed that he will add a new level of sophistication to the Gospel Music landscape. Mixing J.A.M.’s mission and Keith Williams overall message as an artist the connection was God sent.

Keith Williams has a full plate these days nearing the completion of his second CD release, INTRODUCING KEITH WILLIAMS and focusing on his new role as head of A&R for Earnest Pugh’s EPM Music Group, things seem to be taking off for greater success. Leaving his post as Director of Music & Arts at the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta has allowed Keith Williams to become more attentive to what he believes is his true calling.

A classically trained pianist and vocalist with a style of a cross between the legendary Douglas Miller’s nearly operatic baritone and John Stoddard’s polished notes, Keith Williams says “I hate to categorize myself; I don’t even know what my voice sounds like, I’m looking forward to being able to take this music and sing it everywhere.”

Part of J.A.M.’s mission speaks about their dedication to obtaining airplay opportunities and expanding overall exposure of their artist, and they also highlight their eagerness to work with artist passionate about advancing the Kingdom of God to His Glory. Clearly both parties seem to be on the same page and things seem to be on the up and up with the link of Keith Williams and Jewel Artist Management.

ABOUT J.A.M: J.A.M. was birthed into ministry November 2011 and was founded by Tonya Moore, who brings an extensive 20 years of experience to Black Entertainment Television (BET) . Since graduating from Gordon Phillips Beauty School in 1991, Tonya Moore continued to work in the industry as a model, event producer, motivational speaker, wardrobe stylist and a licensed master cosmetologist. Serving as Staff Sergeant in the Air National Guard has allowed her the opportunity to travel the world and gain knowledge of different customs further fueling her passion to work with talent and provide them the opportunity to reach outside the box.

Tonya Moore works her full time position as Special Events Manager for Black Entertainment Television. Her ongoing training is vast and has enabled her to serve many roles. She has directed many fashion photo shoots for photographers across the U.S. as well as coached and managed individuals seeking careers in the entertainment industry. Tonya Moore currently holds a Degree in Fashion Marketing.

Label mates Lecrae, Tedashii, KB, Trip Lee, Andy Mineo and PRO will join together and embark on their 5th annual label tour this fall.Sponsored by Grand Canyon University and Logos, Reach Records will present the Unashamed Tour 2012: Come Alive.  

After opening in Pittsburg on October 4, the Unashamed Tour 2012 will visit 30 cities in major markets such as New York City, Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angeles and more. The tour will draw to a close on November 18 in Memphis, Tenn.  

“The tour will hit many of the most popular live music venues in the country and will bring with it, top notch production,” says Tera Carter, Director of Management and Touring

Concert-goers will be in for a night of entertainment as Lecrae will perform songs off of his Grammy ® nominated album Rehab, in addition to brand new songs off of his soon-to-be released record Gravity, which hits stands this fall. This will be the first opportunity for fans to see the award-winning artist showcase the new material live after the nationwide release. Trip Lee will also entertain crowds with selections from his latest critically acclaimed album The Good Life and KB, the newest member of the Reach Records family, will introduce audiences to his debut project Weight & Glory. Fan favorites Tedashii and PRo add to the stellar line-up and will perform new tracks from their upcoming projects. Furthermore, special guests including Thisl will be highlighted during the new addition of the pre-show.  

For more information on the Unashamed Tour 2012: Come Alive, please visit www.reachrecords.com.    

UNASHAMED TOUR 2012: COME ALIVE TOUR DATES (*Dates subject to change)  

10/4: Pittsburg

10/5: Chicago

10/6: Detroit

10/7: Columbus

10/9: Buffalo

10/10: Toronto

10/12: NYC

10/13: Virginia Beach

10/14: Raleigh/Charlotte

10/18: Birmingham

10/19: Atlanta

10/20: Orlando

10/21: Miami

10/23: Pensacola/Mobile

10/24: Little Rock

10/25: Oklahoma City

10/27: Dallas

10/31: Lubbock

11/1: Albuquerque

11/2: Phoenix

11/3: Los Angeles

11/4: San Francisco

11/7: Portland

11/8: Seattle

11/10: Las Vegas

11/15: Omaha

11/16: Minneapolis

11/17: Kansas City

11/18: Memphis

About Reach Records and ReachLife Ministries

Reach Records and ReachLife Ministries strive to, “bridge the gap between biblical truth and urban context.” Founded in 2003, Reach Records is a Christian music record label dedicated to using music as a means of reaching the urban community in a biblically sound way. While Reach Records employs music to reveal biblical truth, ReachLife Ministries aims to empower ministry leaders with this music in order to grow the urban church. 

For further information and a list of upcoming Reach Records and ReachLife Ministries events, please visit http://reachrecords.com. For more information about ReachLife please visit http://reachlife.org/. 

 About Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University was founded in 1949 and is Arizona’s premier private Christian university. GCU is regionally accredited and emphasizes individual attention for both traditional undergraduate students and the working professional in seven colleges: the Ken Blanchard College of Business, the College of Education, the College of Nursing, the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Theology, the College of Fine Arts and Production, and the College of Doctoral Studies. GCU offers traditional programs on its growing campus, as well as online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs.  The University’s curriculum fuses academic and clinical rigor with Christian values to prepare its students to be skilled, caring professionals. For more information about GCU, visit www.gcu.edu 

About Logos:

Since its inception in 1992, Logos Research Systems, Inc. has grown from a couple of programmers in a basement into the largest developer of Bible software and a worldwide leader in multilingual electronic publishing.

We partner with more than 130 publishers to make more than 21,000 electronic Bible study resources available to customers around the world. Our technology is used in more than 180 countries in a dozen languages 

Logos is headquartered in the friendly city of Bellingham, Washington, USA.

Israel & New Breed offer an encouraging new single, “It’s Not Over (When God Is In It),” on the forthcoming release JESUS AT THE CENTER. The moving ballad hit Gospel radio this month and has made an immediate impact. Serving as a strong reminder of God’s continuing love and help, Israel Houghtonbrought along two of Gospel’s rising stars, James Fortune and Jason Nelson, to lend their talents to this powerful song. 

The single, now available on iTunes features the combination of Houghton, Fortune and Nelson, and makes it an instantaneous hit that lifts the spirits and strengthens the soul. Radio has responded to the collaboration. 

See what people are saying: 

“The creative collaboration that Israel has pulled together is what gospel music needs to remain relevant and inspiring,” Michael Gamble, Program Director for Sheridan Gospel Network.  

“This song a jewel for the inspirational gospel format. Israel Houghton, James Fortune and Jason Nelson are at the top of their game,” Ron Thompson, Program Director at WPRS-FM Radio-One D.C. 

Following two back-to-back Billboard Top 200-selling, GRAMMY Award-winning solo studio albums, Houghton returns with New Breed for their first live recording in five years, JESUS AT THE CENTER, releasing August 14 on Integrity Music. Recorded live with thousands of worshipers at Houston’s Lakewood Church, this double-CD, 18 song album features Israel & New Breed returning to their roots, delivering new anthems for the modern day church. The recording follows the critically acclaimed, GRAMMY Award-winning, A Deeper Level (2007). 

Along with the two-disc album, a companion DVD was recorded live in high-definition and features all 18 songs plus behind the scenes footage, insight behind the song vignettes and other bonus material. Israel & New Breed will also simultaneously release an exclusive iTunes® LP. The JESUS AT THE CENTER LP will not only include the new music, but also video Work Tapes, a Photo Montage and the “Jesus At The Center” video tutorial.  

In 1995, Israel and Meleasa Houghton founded New Breed Ministries, an organization they continue to run and comprised of noted musicians and singers who serve within their respective churches and together serve the Church at large. Israel has been fittingly graced with 2 Gold-selling albums, 4 GRAMMY Awards, 12 Dove Awards, 2 Stellar Awards and a Soul Train Award. 

Active as worship leader at Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church in Houston, Houghton has served as worship leader at Hillsong conferences and Franklin Graham crusades. He has been featured on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, accompanied Alicia Keys at the 2007 MTV Video Music Awards for a performance of George Michael’s “Freedom ’90,” and performed at the 50th Annual GRAMMY Awards.