This week we want to say a big congratulations to Brian Courtney Wilson, who debuted at number one with his new CD ‘So Proud.’  The album also came in at #44 on the Billboard Top 200 and #5 on the independent albums chart.

The Project by Brian Courtney Wilson features 12 songs.  Wilson wrote or collaborated on most of the songs, and served as co-producer for all of the tracks on the CD. Other songs on the CD were produced by GRAMMY-nominated and multiple award-winning producer and songwriter Stan Jones, including the second single, “He Still Cares,” currently impacting gospel radio.  The message is that even when you’ve had a touch from the Master, you still may go through trials and tribulations. But you must believe that God still cares for you, and He will give you what you need, when you need it, to make it through.

The rest of Billboard’s Top 10 in Gospel is:

1 | Brian Courtney Wilson – So Proud
2 | WOW Gospel 2012
3 | Fred Hammond – God, Love & Romance
4 | James Fortune & FIYA – Identity
5 | Various Artists – Joyful Noise Sountrack
6 | William McDowell – Arise
7 | Le’Andria Johnson – The Awakening of Le’Andria Johnson…
8 | Kirk Franklin – Hello Fear
9 | Lecrae – Rehab
10 | Marvin Sapp – Playlist: The Very Best of…

The new project from Le’Andria Johnson hit stores last week so expect more big news from the Music World camp.  The new Grammy winner could have two albums in the Top 10.

The world was saddened even further Saturday with the funeral of Whitney Houston broadcasted LIVE on TV and on the internet.  Millions tuned in as some of the worlds most famous people helped pay tribute to Whitney Houston.

Houston’s mother Cissy Houston and her daughter, Bobbi Kristina Brown, were joined by mourners at the invitation-only service.

“I never told you that when you were born, the Holy Spirit told me that you would not be with me long,” Cissy Houston wrote in the funeral program, The Associated Press reported Saturday. “And I thank God for the beautiful flower he allowed me to raise and cherish for 48 years.”

There were musical tributes from some of the biggest names in the industry including Stevie Wonder and Alicia Keys.

The audience included the likes of Oprah Winfrey, Tyler Perry, Mariah Carey, Bishop T.D. Jakes, Tyler Perry, Rev. Al Sharpton, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Stevie Wonder and many more.

A tearful Alicia Keys remembered how Houston would reach out to young artists.

“[She] made us feel strong and capable and loved,” Keys said before she sang.

Aretha Franklin, who had been confirmed as a performer, said Saturday she would not sing at Houston’s funeral. “Unfortunately I had terrible leg spasms and locked leg muscles,” Franklin said in a statement. “My heart goes out to my dear friend Cissy, Dionne, Bobbi Kristina and the rest of the family. “

Houston’s longtime friend and the man who jumpstarted her career, Clive Davis, said a talent like Houston’s was rare.

“You wait for a voice like that for a lifetime. You wait for a face like that, a smile like that, a presence like that for a lifetime,” he said. “When one person embodies it all, it takes your breath away.”

One of the highlights of the service was when Kevin Costner remembered his “The Bodyguard” co-star as someone who shared the same interests and values. Both grew up in the Baptist church, a bond he said they shared over the years of their friendship.

Costner recalled Houston’s nervousness when she had to do a screen test for the role of singer Rachel Marron in the movie.

“The Whitney I knew was still wondering if I’m good enough. Am I pretty enough? Will they like me?” he said. “It was what made her great, and what caused her to stumble at the end.”

One person conspicuously absent at the service was Houston’s ex-husband, Bobby Brown.

Brown made a brief appearance at the funeral. He touched the casket and then left with his children Landon and LaPrincia at the start of the ceremony when his entourage was told they could not get in.  Reports are that Bobby Brown had 3 seats reserved for him and he showed up with 9 people.  Brown was said to be angry that his entire party could not be accommodated at the funeral.

In a statement put out by his representative, Brown explained, “My children and I were invited to the funeral of my ex-wife Whitney Houston. We were seated by security and then subsequently asked to move on three separate occasions.”

Brown had spent much of the week with his daughter Bobbi Kristina, who was hospitalized for stress and anxiety after Houston’s death on Feb. 11.

Pastor Marvin Winans did the eulogy and had no shame in preaching.  He did a wonderful job preaching a powerful 15 minute sermonette.  

What are your thoughts of the funeral procession?  We have posted a few pages of the obituary below.  If you missed the funeral you can watch it in it’s entirety below as well.  

 

There’s no mistaking Eunice Wright with any other artist on today’s scene. The power of her voice, energetic panache, and phenomenal vocal range and ability makes her voice immediately recognizable to anyone who have heard it before. Eunice ventured out of her local church in 2009 on a quest to share the ministry God has afforded her with the masses and has since been making an indelible mark on the music world ever since. Her newest single, “Hello God”, from her forthcoming project “Worth It All,” is certain to have the same unforgettable effect on as the worship experience of Eunice Wright.

“Hello God” is a little different from the gospel flair we are accustomed to from Eunice Wright. It mirrors other hits such as “In Me” and “I Want God to Get the Glory” by charging the atmosphere to invoke the presence and power of God. However, “Hello God” manages to capture it in a free-flowing, relaxed, care-free Christian contemporary song of praise.

Powerful, anointed, awesome, and life-changing are words used often when people describe their worship experience with Eunice Wright and her sophomore release has yielded those same responses. Recorded live in Dover, Delaware, “Worth It All” demonstrates Eunice’s versatility in delivering great Gospel music outside of her traditional Gospel music comfort zone. In addition to the debut release, the title cut “Worth It All,” is a simple love ballad to the Lord, reminding us that the promise to see our Savior in the future is worth our present sufferings. Also on the project is the hit single “Change Me” and “You Did It” featuring award-winning songstress Tammy Trout ministers sincere supplication and thanksgiving from the heart of listeners directly to the heart of God.

Though still rather new to the industry, Eunice is not new to singing or ministry. Singing since the age of five, Eunice sang her first solo “Lord Make Me An Instrument,” not knowing this simple song would become her heart’s desire. Her first release “Wait On Me” is a musical testimony that takes us to the essence of gospel music – from the contemporary praise of “I Want God to Get the Glory” to the true worship experience of “In Me” to a good ol’ fashioned praise break heard in “Praise Him.” From start to finish, this project has something for every gospel music listener that is sure to bring about a worship experience like none other! “Wait On Me” earned Eunice three awards and thirteen other award nominations, to include Stellar, The Rhythm of Gospel, and South Florida Gospel Music Awards recognition.

Eunice has been featured on several magazines, and on websites, radio and television shows. Eunice has appeared alongside many of Gospel’s greats including Monique Walker, Phillip Carter and SOV, Minister Earl Bynum, Monica Lisa Stevenson, Lucinda Moore, Vicki Winans, Beverly Crawford, Kurt Carr, Pastor Marvin Sapp, and Dr. Rance Allen. She also made her acting debut in 2010 in the stage production “Wrong Shade of Black” featuring national recording artists Shirley Murdock and Dave Hollister and famous actor Clifton Powell. God has given Eunice a gift to be shared with the masses and an anointing that will deliver life-changing experience to those who experience the power of God through her – the worship she leads God’s people to is an experience that will not soon be forgotten. “Hello God” is available for download free on the official Eunice Wright website www.eunicewright.com. “Worth It All” is slated for release in March 2012. Her debut project, “Wait On Me,” is also available for purchase on the official website as well as iTunes and CD Baby.

For more information and for management and booking, visit www.eunicewright.com or www.joyfulnoyze.net.

Industry Quotes

“Hello God is one of those songs that will INSTANTLY lift your spirit! I LOVE this song! Listeners will have this one on repeat.” ~ Wanda Patterson, Vice President of Florida Gospel Announcers Guild and radio announcer of Stellar-award-winning WCGL 1360 AM in Jacksonville, Florida

“This new single ‘Hello God’ by Eunice Wright is a great cut that sends a hard hitting message that we all need to do all day long. ‘Hello God’ invites Him in!” ~ Brodric Purvis, Music Director of Stellar-award winning WLOU 1350 AM and Praise 104.7 FM in Louisville, Kentucky

“On ‘Hello God,’ Eunice Wright sings that the Almighty made her day. The song’s chorus is so catchy, it will make yours.” ~ Robert Marovich, Founder and Editor in Chief of The Black Gospel Blog

“The new song “Hello God” from Eunice Wright is one of the best inspirational songs of all times. Every time I hear the song I sing along as part of my testimony of knowing God is always around and present in my life. Thank you Eunice for a great song,” ~ Henry Harris, Founder of Spirit Enterprises, Inc. and SpiritCo1 Internet Radio, and Founder of the Excellence in Christian Music Awards.

“We had to publish this, Eunice sounded polished as a singer and anointed.” -Kris Patrick, Publisher of Path MEGAzine

GRAMMY nominated R&B artist Montell Jordan, known for his iconic hit “This is How We Do It” joins BET “Lift Every Voice” host CoCo Brother, Daytime EMMY nominated comedian Chonda Pierce, and World Heavyweight Champion wrestler AJ Styles to announce the nominees for the 43rd Annual Gospel Music Association Dove Awards at a press conference on Wednesday, February 22 at 11AM ET at The Georgian Terrace Hotel, located at 659 Peachtree Street Northeast in Atlanta, GA..

The 43rd Annual GMA Dove Awards will take place on April 19 at the Fox Theater in Atlanta. The award show is produced by the Gospel Music Association (GMA) to offer the most comprehensive platform of music celebrating Christian and Gospel music.

Over the years, the Dove Awards have featured some of the biggest names in entertainment and sports, including Whitney Houston, Tim Tebow, Sherri Shepherd and Kathie Lee Gifford. It has showcased many of the nation’s leading Christian music artists, including Amy Grant, Toby Mac, Michael W. Smith, Kirk Franklin, Casting Crowns, Mary Mary, Third Day and more.

The Gospel Music Association has been the face and voice for the Gospel/Christian music community since 1964 and is dedicated to celebrating the Gospel through music of all styles including Pop, Rock, Praise & Worship, Urban Gospel, R&B, Hip Hop, Southern Gospel, Bluegrass, Country and more. GMA members include agents, artists, church leaders, managers, promoters, radio and record company executives, retailers, and songwriters.

Jackie Patillo, GMA’s Executive Director, will be available for interviews at the press conference, as well as Montell Jordan, Coco Brother, Chonda Pierce and AJ Styles.

Nominees in select categories will be announced live and additional nominees will be posted online at www.gospelmusic.org.

 

Mathew Knowles’ Music World Gospel and BET’s Sunday Best Season 4 first-runner up, Andrea (pronounced Ahn-drea) Helms, releases her new CD, Moving Forward, on March 6, 2012.

As Music World Gospel releases its third project from the Sunday Best brand, Andrea prepares for the release of her first single, Mary Mary’s “Yesterday,” and her first promotional tour, in her hometown of Dallas, Texas (see dates below). “I am very excited about my new project,” says Andrea. “On this album, I relive the moments from my time on Sunday Best. It’s an honor to re-record a song initially sung for the judges of the show, who I’ve been a fan of for a long time.  This CD is amazing. I am both proud of and humbled by the way this project turned out. And I am so grateful to Mathew Knowles for giving me this opportunity. I’m living my dream because he saw the potential in me.” 

Moving Forward is a seven song EP that features some of her most memorable performances on Sunday Best.  The CD offers an iTunes exclusive of “Wind Beneath My Wings” as a presale incentive to purchase the CD.  However, the song will not appear on the project.

“Andrea is a very special and unique talent. When I initially saw her on Sunday Best, I knew immediately that she was someone I wanted to sign to the label,” says Mathew Knowles, founder, President and CEO of Music World Gospel. “We look forward to working with her to expand her music ministry by developing her career as a recording artist.”

If living this dream of a recording artist wasn’t enough.  Andrea was recently requested by the Dr. Bernice King to sing at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration at the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta on Monday, January 16 (http://youtu.be/8GbJSoLjVU0).  Andrea, who performed “Change” at the ceremony, said this has been her greatest honor as a musical artist.  “I felt like I was a part of history that day.  The feeling of standing in the same place Dr. King stood was very humbling.  The family was so genuine and sweet.  I was received with open arms.  As I stood there looking out over the audience, I saw different races and backgrounds worshipping God together.  It is evident that his philosophy and teachings are still shaping our culture.”

Andrea is a lifelong singer and worshipper.  On Moving Forward, Andrea felt it was especially intimidating to perform songs made popular by outstanding singers such as Tremaine Hawkins and Whitney Houston, whose musicianship she most admires, along with Mariah Carey and Martha Munizzi. There is no doubt that she has successfully put her stamp on the seven songs on the CD.  She offers a powerful, soulful and bluesy turn on Sunday Best judges Mary Mary’s song, “Yesterday,” which is her first single from the CD.  Her version of Richard Smallwood’s classic “I Love the Lord” is uniquely her own.  She also puts her own spin on the highly popular praise and worship song, “Because Of Who You Are,” written by Martha and Daniel Munizzi, as well as on Donald Lawrence’s songs “The Heaven Are Telling (A Mighty God We Serve)” and “Encourage Yourself.”  One of the most talked about moments of the season was when Amber Bullock and Andrea Helms performed a duet, “Moving Forward,” penned by Ricardo Sanchez, during the show’s finale. Andrea and Amber offer a powerful rendition of that song for this CD.

Andrea is especially drawn to the song, “Change,” on the CD because of her personal story. The recording includes some of her testimony. “From the time that my mother was carrying me, doctors told her that I would be a vegetable and that I would never talk or walk, but I was born a healthy 8 pound 2 ounce baby,” she said. “God performed a miracle. I wasn’t even supposed to be able to talk, and He gave me the ability to sing. Then, years later, when I had my son, I dealt with severe postpartum depression that literally caused me to have suicidal tendencies. I was still leading worship through it all, but it was really a rough, rough, time. I don’t remember a lot of my son’s first year being here with me because I was not in the right frame of mind. My mom is a fireball and a prayer warrior and she prayed me through it. I think God leads us through places like that so that we can minister to other people. Now I walk my victory out every day and I can speak to women and understand where they are coming from. So God has really changed me and that’s why that song means something to me.”

The CD was recorded at Music World Studios, which Andrea described as an “amazing place with a great staff.” The songs were produced by H. Doobie Powell for Chip Off The Block Productions, who Andrea describes as “a genius.”

Andrea kicks off her promotional tour in Dallas, Texas (Thursday, February 16 and Friday, February 17); followed by Houston, TX (Sunday, February 19, Monday, February 20, Tuesday, February 21, Wednesday, February 22, Thursday, February 23 and Friday, February 24); Nashville, TN (Sunday, February 26, Tuesday, February 27, and Wednesday, February 28); Atlanta, GA (Wednesday, February 29, Thursday, March 1 and Friday, March 2); New York City (Monday, March 5 and Tuesday, March 6); Dallas/Denton, TX (Wednesday, March 7); and Chicago, IL (Monday, March 12 and Tuesday, March 13).

Born in Odessa Texas, Andrea was an only child and the daughter of a preacher who was also an accomplished musician. Music was always a part of her life at home, at school, and at Friendship Church in Denton, Texas, where her father was pastor.

Andrea met her husband, Michael, at Friendship Church when his family came there when she was 13 and he was 15. “From the time we first saw each other, we knew we were supposed to be together,” she said. They started dating when she was 15, and later Michael worked for the church in the outreach ministry and eventually became youth pastor. Andrea and Michael were married in 1993. In 1998 they were called to pastor another church and they left Friendship.  After her father’s death, Andrea and Michael returned to Denton to co-pastor the church, where Andrea has resumed her role as minister of music.

Andrea describes her church as “a place that meets almost every need.”  A nondenominational church with an interracial congregation between 300 and 500 people, it serves young and old and ministers to “anyone who comes to the door.”

Besides completing her CD, Andrea has been traveling around the country to minister in song. She recently was featured in the Jacksonville, Florida run of T.J. Hemphill’s play, Perilous Times II, with Music World label mate Le’Andria Johnson, Season 3 winner of Sunday Best.

For artist performance and branding inquiries, please call Music World at 713-772-5175.

According to The Christian Post, The divorce case between Georgia megachurch leader Bishop Eddie Long and wife Vanessa Long has been closed and dismissed, according to the DeKalb County Online Judicial System. However, there remains a possibility the case could continue in the future.  It appears the couple is attempting to reconcile once again.

According to the online judicial system record, there are three new entries as of Feb. 13 related to the Longs’ divorce case with the descriptions “dismissal,” “certificate of service” and “dismissed without prejudice” noted.

“Dismissed without prejudice” means the case may be re-instituted or re-filed in the future. According to the Judicial Branch of Georgia website, “A dismissal without prejudice does not stop the plaintiff from re-filing the claim and proceeding as long as the claim is made timely (within the statute of limitations) and service can be secured.”

It is undetermined whether Long or his wife chose to close the case. They have been married for 21 years and share three children. Long has another child, a son, by his first wife, whom he divorced in 1985. 

Long is the senior pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church located in Lithonia, Ga., a suburb in Atlanta.  Vanessa Long released a statement on Friday, Dec. 2, 2011, saying that she had decided to terminate her marriage after “a great deal of deliberation and prayer.”

Just hours later, a statement from New Birth Missionary Baptist Church attributed to Long said the first lady had a change of heart, and planned to withdraw her petition for divorce. “I believe in [Eddie Long] and admire his strength and courage,” Long said in the statement. 

Then, later in the day, her attorney announced in a statement that “[Vanessa Long] has determined that dismissal of her divorce petition is not appropriate at this time,” and that she had every intention of moving forward with the proceedings. 

Shortly after the divorce announcement, Eddie Long announced that he was going on hiatus from preaching to focus on his family. The bishop returned to the pulpit in early January.

As of Feb. 13, the divorce case is closed.  Read the Full Story by the Christian Post.

 

Known for their live albums and DVDs, HILLSONG UNITED’s Live In Miami marks the first time for the band that one night has been captured in its entirety – from the first song to the last encore. Releasing this week amidst acclaim to digital and physical retail outlets everywhere, UNITED Live In Miami double-CD and DVD is available now at iTunes® and Amazon.com.

Intent on bringing a raw, authentic worship experience in a stadium filled with thousands of people set on worshipping Jesus Christ, UNITED’s Live In Miami was recorded during the band’s sold out worship night Aug. 6, 2011 at American Airlines Arena in Miami. The event was part of the 2011″Welcome To The Aftermath” tour that consisted of 32 events with 182,000 people filling venues to capacity in venues across the country – from New York to Los Angeles, where UNITED became the first Christian band to sell out Staples Center.

For the first time ever, Australian worship band UNITED teams up with Hulu to offer the exclusive online premiere of the full-length Live In Miami DVD. The long form video is at www.hulu.com/hillsong and will remain available on the site this week.

Hulu, which has 26 million unique monthly visitors, further launches a devoted Hillsong channel simultaneously with the premiere at the link above. The site will include short form videos from UNITED, Hillsong LIVE and Hillsong Chapel.

 Here is what the critics are already saying about Live In Miami:

“Live In Miami is a perfect illustration of this group’s musical evolution. As whimsical and fun as ever, none of the bells and whistles ever drowns out the true meaning of the moment…dive in deep and begin to experience a true encounter with God as you worship Him…You almost feel like you’re in the room with the thousands of others as they freely praise.” – NewReleaseTuesday.com

“What makes this project so incredible is the ability to watch the concert from start to finish…the worship is captured and experienced to its fullest on the DVD. It truly transforms you from being a listener and a music consumer to being a fellow worshiper and participator. That being said, this might be one of the most honest representations of the band as a whole and also proves why Hillsong UNITED is such a mighty force in worship music.” – JesusFreakHideout.com

“The collection of songs is a great place for people unfamiliar with Hillsong UNITED to find out why so many people love this powerhouse of modern worship, and provides great reinterpretations of last year’s set of songs that will broaden their usage in the church.” – Foursquare.org “Drawing from both the strength of last year’s release and the power of their live worship, Live In Miami is not just a great album. It’s a fantastic experience…All of this, an earbud away, and to the fortunate thousands who have seen them live, a memory away, is a gift.” – Relate Magazine

“The concert’s main focus is clear: spreading love, joy, grace, and above all, God, from the beginning track until the end…Each track brings its own special light to an all together bright and beautiful album.” – Breathecast.com

Having led worship in churches, stadiums and open fields around the world, UNITED’s Live In Miami is a return to the live album format and is the first live release from the band in four years. The double-CD and DVD each feature 22 songs comprised of Hillsong favorites like “Mighty to Save,” “From The Inside Out” and “The Stand,” as well as newer songs from UNITED’s acclaimed Aftermath studio CD (2011), including “Search My Heart,” UNITED’s biggest radio hit to date. The DVD contains over 2 hours of inspiring anthems, “drum battles,” behind-the-scenes footage and more. A physical deluxe package is also available that combines the two-disc album plus the full concert DVD.

About UNITED In studio and out of studio, on tour or home at Hillsong Church, UNITED is committed to sharing songs that speak truth, create a unique sound, connects with churches, individuals and ultimately connects people everywhere with God. Born out of the Youth Movement of Australia’s Hillsong Church, UNITED is fronted by worship leaders Joel Houston, Jad Gillies, Jonathon “JD” Douglass and backed by an evolving collaboration of pastors, worship leaders, musicians and songwriters – all intentional about giving voice to a generation passionate about God. Traversing the world’s continents, UNITED continues its cross-cultural journey of music and worship. The latest tour dates and additional information on UNITED can be found at www.hillsongunited.com, www.youtube.com/hillsongunitedtv and www.facebook.com/hillsongunited, where the band has over 2.7 Million fans.

About Hulu Hulu is an online TV service whose mission is to help people find and enjoy the world’s premium content when, where and how they want it. As we pursue this mission, we aspire to create a service that users, advertisers and content owners unabashedly love. Hulu was founded in 2007 and is operated independently by a dedicated team with offices in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago , Seattle, Tokyo and Beijing. NBCUniversal, News Corporation, The Walt Disney Company, Providence Equity Partners and the Hulu team share in the ownership of the company. (www.hulu.com)

Mathew Knowles’ Music World Gospel recording artist Brian Courtney Wilson’s new CD project, So Proud, released on February 7, debuts at #1 on both Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums chart and the Top Christian/Gospel Albums chart.  So Proud also debuts at #5 on Billboard’s Independent chart and #44 on Billboard’s Top 200 chart.

This week, Wilson’s title song and current single, “So Proud” lands at #21 on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs chart and #20 on the Gospel Indicator chart. “So Proud” is a feel good blend of inspiration, heart and soul. “So Proud” was produced by multiple GRAMMY^®, GMA Dove and Stellar Award-winning producer Aaron W. Lindsey (Israel Houghton, Marvin Sapp). 

Wilson’s sophomore CD, So Proud, is receiving great reviews.  “Wilson’s tone and downright in- the-pocket delivery stand out in a sea of gospel male vocalists who often substitute acrobatics for solid singing. Brian Courtney Wilson affirms the very reason we fell in love with his artistry the first go ‘round,” says GospelPundit.com.  “On So Proud, Wilson’s vocals are more refined and smoother than his distinctively raspier vocals on Just Love,” says EURWEB.com. 

The highly-anticipated project features 12 songs.  Wilson wrote or collaborated on most of the songs, and served as co-producer for all of the tracks on the CD. Other songs on the CD were produced by GRAMMY-nominated and multiple award-winning producer and songwriter Stan Jones, including the second single, “He Still Cares,” currently impacting gospel radio.  The message is that even when you’ve had a touch from the Master, you still may go through trials and tribulations. But you must believe that God still cares for you, and He will give you what you need, when you need it, to make it through.

Other songs produced by Jones include “Right Back To You,” a prayer that God will let you be the greatest at whatever it is that he’s calling you to be, but even if you aren’t, whatever you do will be worthy of giving right back to God; “Closer,” a song about faith and endurance that reassures the listener that no matter how things may look, God has not forgotten you and that every promise He made, every plan that he has for you, he’s going to see it through with you, but you’ve got to keep holding on because you’re closer than you think; and “Grab And Hold,”  which reminds us that Jesus has everything we need, and that we need to make sure that nothing stops us from grabbing His hand and holding on. The song has what Wilson describes as an “old school church feel” to it that reinforces the meaning of the song.

Wilson wanted to include in this project a song that considers the promise of marriage. He wrote “One Day At A Time,” in collaboration with award-winning producer P.J. Morton, who produced the song. “I’ve been married 11 years and we do it one day at a time,” says Wilson. “We make the decision every day to be faithful to each other, to forgive one another, to keep showing up, to work as hard as we can and to keep believing that God is going to work out whatever problems we may have. It’s important to tie marriage to worship because a good marriage is a model for the way God wants to be in relationship with us,” he added. “Perfect,” another collaboration between Wilson and P.J. Morton, gives the good news that even though we are not perfect, God sees us as perfect for the plans He has for us and the dreams He put in our hearts.  Morton also serves as producer for “Perfect.”

“Obey Anyway” was written several years ago by Toby Hill. Wilson wanted to include it in this project because the message of the song—that when times are tough and we are looking for an answer, we just have to keep going and following the instructions that God has already given us—fit with the theme of the project. The celebratory, feel-good “Storm In Mind” was inspired by a conversation Wilson saw on a program on the Trinity Broadcast Network (TBN). One man told of being on a cruise ship when a storm came up. Everyone started to panic except the captain, who explained to the passengers that he knew there was no need for panic because he was there when the ship was built, and he knew that it was made to endure the storm that they were going through. The message of this song is that if we’re going through a storm in our life, we’ve got to believe that we can make it through because God has made us to endure it. Wilson performs “Unspeakable Joy” as a duet with gospel legend and label mate Vanessa Bell Armstrong. Wilson was inspired to write the song because he believes that if you understand that you are perfect for God and perfect for whatever plan God has for you, then it should bring you a sense of joy. “You Are My King” is a simple, straight forward song that says no matter who you are or what your station is in life—rich or poor, with many friends or alone–God is our King and He can help you get through.

Wilson continues his promotional tour in Washington, DC (Wednesday, February 15); followed by Baltimore, MD (Thursday, February 16); Philadelphia, PA (Friday, February 17); Nashville (Sunday, February 19 through Tuesday, February 21); and Atlanta, GA (Wednesday, February 22).

So Proud follows Wilson’s debut CD, Just Love, which entered at #2 on the Billboard Top Gospel Albums chart and #6 on Billboard’s Top Christian Albums chart. The CD has remained at #1 on Christian Music Trade Association’s (CMTA) Inspirational Albums chart for 52 weeks.  Since its release in June 2009, the CD held steady in the Top 20 on the Billboard Top Gospel Albums chart for over 90 weeks—longer than any other CD title on Billboard’s Top 50 that year [2010]. 

Purchase Brian’s CD by clicking the banner below.
 

 

Erica and Tina Campbell, best known as inspirational star duo, Mary Mary, have announced the release this week of their new single “Go Get It,” the title track to their upcoming album due out in May. The phenomenal string of successes for their 2011 album, “Something Big,” which featured the smash hit, “Walking,” has secured multiple nominations and awards for a string of shows in 2011/2012 including double Grammy nominations for Best Gospel Album and Best Gospel Song.

As the ladies gear up for the launch of their WE tv series, which highlights the non-stop pace of sisters Erica and Tina Campbell, they joyously anticipate giving their fans a sneak peek into the day-to-day aspects of their lives. The series rolls out as Mary Mary continues to perform, tour and record new music while running busy lives on the home front. Erica and husband, producer/songwriter Warryn Campbell, balance raising three children including a newborn baby. Meanwhile Tina and husband, Ricky Minor Band drummer Teddy Campbell, balance raising a blended family of four while Teddy plays nightly on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. In addition to their spouses and children, the ladies are part of a big extended family as two of nine siblings, and each individual family member has larger-than-life personality. Through it all, the sisters remain devoted parents, loving spouses, and multi-Grammy winning superstars.

Mary Mary’s new album, set for release in May 2012 will feature two new songs including the just released single, “Go Get It.” The album will include classic Mary Mary songs that have been remixed and remastered featuring some of the duo’s greatest hits. The highly anticipated album will be sure to please old and new fans alike.

Mary Mary has been on an incredible run in the past year including securing the prestigious ASCAP Golden Note Award, a BET Award, Soul Train Award, Two Stellar Awards, double Grammy Award nominations as well as a nomination for a NAACP Image Award for Best Gospel Album. The year also saw partnerships with The American Red Cross and Pillsbury. Perhaps the biggest news of all is Erica and husband Warryn Campbell’s delivery of their new baby girl in late January.

Mary Mary will premier on WE tv Thursday, March 29th at 10pm ET/PT, in a special time slot, then continues each week at 9pm ET/PT with ten, hour-long episodes. The duo looks forward to sharing a glimpse of their lives with their fans.

Check out the “Go Get It” single below.

About WE tv: WE tv (www.wetv.com) is the women’s network that showcases an unfiltered, modern view of family life. The original programming presents stories from a woman’s perspective and features celebrities and personalities audiences can relate to and embrace. The network’s slate of original series, including the hit shows Braxton Family Values, Joan & Melissa: Joan Knows Best?, Bridezillas and My Fair Wedding with David Tutera, underscore WE tv’s brand position and tagline, Life As WE Know It, which signifies the connection women share based on similar life experiences during life’s defining moments – like getting married, raising a family, dealing with sibling rivalry, and making ends meet. Owned and operated by AMC Networks Inc., WE tv is available in over 76 million homes and is available in HD and on demand.

 

Reach Records’ hip-hop artist Trip Lee is gearing up for the release of his latest album, The Good Life. Slated to release nationwide on April 10, 2012 through Reach Records, the 4th project for Trip celebrates the truth in real life through its unique style and lyrical content.

A musical exploration to redefine “The Good Life,” Trip challenges listeners to no longer live in light of lies that says The Good Life is all about the money, the cars, and the clothes.

“The Good Life is not climbing to the top of the corporate ladder, The Good Life is not a life free from any responsibility,” says Trip. “The Good Life is living in sync with God and embracing all that He has to offer us in Christ.”

Teaming up with label mates Lecrae, KB and Andy Mineo on production and musical fronts, The Good Life celebrates the truth and features new powerful songs like Trip’s first smash single, “Robot” that unveils the world, the flesh, and the devil’s lies by letting listeners know that they don’t have to be controlled by those lies.

“We don’t have to be robots,” says Trip. “We can choose life. I want to challenge the lies we’ve been told, and present a new and more glorious picture.”

Trip’s debut album, If They Only Knew, hit stores nationwide a few days after his high school graduation. That same year, he was also featured on the Dove Award-nominated, timeless classic “Jesus Muzik” with label mate Lecrae. Trip’s sophomore album, 20/20, was released in 2008 and garnered much success: breaking into the Billboard Top 200, reaching #11 on the Billboard Christian albums chart and landing at #4 on the Gospel chart. With his third studio album, Between Two Worlds, Trip offered a collection of reflections on life in a fallen world. Those reflections resonated with listeners as B2W debuted at #1 on the Christian and Gospel Billboard charts, #5 on the Hip Hop/Rap iTunes chart and #9 on the Top Albums iTunes chart. The album also received two Dove nominations and a Stellar Award for Best Gospel Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year.

Since his first album release, Trip has traveled the world performing for thousands of listeners. In conjunction with The Good Life, he is gearing up for the nationwide 4Thirty1 Conference tour (http://www.premierproductions.com/tour/4thirty1-conference) and the Amazing Grace Tour alongside InPop singer/songwriter Jimmy Needham.

Trip will also be embarking on a nationwide album promotional tour that will be kicking off in conjunction with the April 10 release as well as a featured artist at various 2012 festivals including Spirit West Coast, Atlanta Fest and Rock The Lakes, among others.

*All tour dates are subject to change:

4Thirty1 Tour 
April 19 – Atlanta
April 20 – Nashville
April 21 – Birmingham
April 26 – Greensboro
April 27 – Columbus
April 28 – St Louis
May 3 – Tulsa
May 4 – Dallas
May 5 – Houston

Amazing Grace Tour:
February 10 – Everett, WA 
February 11 – Portland, OR 
February 17 – Amarillo, TX 
February 18 – San Marcos, TX 
February 19 – Loredo, TX 
February 20 – Woodlake, TX 
March 2 – West Plains, MO 
March 4 – St. Louis, MO 
March 7 – Poplar Bluff, MO 
March 9 – Ooltewah, TN 
March 10 – Orange Beach, AL
March 15 – Pinellas Part, FL 
March 16 – Bellville, GA

Promotional Album Tour:
May 10 – Virginia Beach
May 11 – Raleigh
May 12 – Louisville
May 13 – Kansas City
May 17 – Minneapolis
May 18 – Chicago
May 19 – Detroit
May 20 – Pittsburg
May 26 – Orlando
June 1 – Dallas

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/.