Rush Of Fools released their highly anticipated record, We Once Were on September 27th and the project has been embraced by radio, media and retail. The album debuted at #6 on iTunes Christian/Gospel Chart and #24 on the Christian AC Sales Chart. The first single from the record, Grace Found Me, is New & Active on the Single Charts. The project, produced by Dennis Herring (Mute Math, Modest Mouse, Jars of Clay) has delivered what everyone has known all along: that Rush Of Fools is an extremely gifted group whose talent keeps growing and expanding.

“We’re very excited for Rush Of Fools, as the band has put their heart and soul into this record and it’s a tremendous step for their career,” says Bob Morrison, Vice President, eOne Christian Music. “This album will become a landmark project for them.”

“We’re so happy that our friends and the music industry are connecting with the self-penned songs that have helped to sustain us over the last three years,” explains Rush Of Fools. “A lot of energy and effort have gone into the making of this project, and our goal was to present music that delivers God’s truth with lyrics that inspire and move people. We remain humble and thankful for this wonderful opportunity for our music ministry and look forward to all of the upcoming opportunities to perform the new music live for our fans.”

This long-awaited third studio project reflects the rocky three-year sojourn of the Alabama based band that included their label closing and a resulting lawsuit that Rush Of Fools won in 2010. During this period, all of the band members continually wrote new songs about God’s grace, staying faithful in their Christian walk no matter what the circumstances, and a message of hope with a restoring of faith.

The songs have resonated with fans and media has hailed We Once Were as Rush Of Fools strongest release to date. Outstanding reviews have been placed with such outlets as; CCM, On Course Magazine, Cross Point Magazine, and features in Billboard Magazine, Essential Connection and All Access.

NewReleaseTuesday.com – This is the best overall album by Rush of Fools and is one of my top albums of the year.

JesusFreakHideout.com – A new sound, new label, good production, and solid lyrical content all spell out a solid third release for this group from Alabama.

CMAddict.com – Their third album is a hit from the get go with driving rhythms and heavy guitars.

Christian Music Review – How can you possibly pick a favorite from a rocking heart-felt album that hits home, addressing the topic of trusting in God and having faith in Him despite feeling like you’re in your lowest valley?

The band is launching We Once Were with an aggressive touring schedule including the recently completed college FreeFall Tour, sold out street week concerts with Christian radio, and upcoming select tour dates on the Rock & Worship Roadshow 2011 and will share the stage with such high-profile artists as MercyMe, Jars of Clay, Hawk Nelson and Matt Maher.

For updates on Rush Of Fools please visit www.rushoffools.com.

About Rush Of Fools

The group hails from Alabama and burst onto the Christian music scene in 2007 with their self-titled debut project. The first single from the album, “Undo,” became a mega-hit for the band by reaching #1 on the charts for an incredible seven weeks. The tune became Song of the Year by ASCAP and Radio & Records for the most number of spins at radio, and garnered four 2008 Dove nominations for the band. The following single, “Peace Be Still,” remained at the top of the charts for three weeks. Rush Of Fools’ sophomore album released in 2008 and broke them into the mainstream market with their hit single, “Never Far Away” (with Jim Brickman) which broke Top 10 on the mainstream AC charts, along with appearances on the national television outlets, WGN Midday News and the syndicated morning show, Daily Buzz, along with coverage on CNN.com.

The newly launched Bounce TV Network (the first African American targeted broadcast TV network) picks up half-hour series from Gospel Superfest executive producer Bobby Cartwright, Jr.  The show, “BSJ’s Back Stage Pass” has been totally revamped for the New Bounce TV network and includes highlights and performances from the first seven years of Gospel Superfest.  The new series features interviews and performances from the internationally acclaimed and ground breaking gospel music TV production.  Recorded in New York City, Atlanta, GA, Detroit, MI, Jacksonville, FL, Columbus, OH, Raleigh, NC and Louisville, KY, featured performers include a who’s who list of gospel and R&B artists including Hezekiah Walker, Karen Clark Sheard, Mary Mary, Melba Moore, Gary Anglin, Howard Hewett, Tye Tribbett, Shirley Murdock, Walter Hawkins, Eartha, Tramaine Hawkins, Byron Cage, Keith Wonderboy Johnson, Dorinda Clark Cole, Howard Hewett, Norman Hutchins, Kurt Carr, Ki Ki Sheard, Trin-i-tee 5:7, Canton Jones, V-3, Dottie Peoples, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Dorothy Norwood, Bishop Paul S. Morton, Sr., Ricky Dillard & New G, The Williams Brothers, Dr. Leonard Scott, Men of Standard, Angie Winans, Mississippi Mass Choir, Lamar Campbell & Spirit of Praise, Keith Dobbins, The Pilgrim Jubilees, The Christianaires, Rance Allen Group, The Anointed Pace Sisters, Brenda Waters, Nu City Mass, The Ladwec ChoiR and numerous others.  

“This is an historic opportunity for United TV and gospel music fans. We’ve always been committed to giving gospel artists additional television platforms while simultaneously providing our audiences with positive –uplifting programming.  This new era in black-targeted television gives fans an opportunity to view their favorite gospel artist on TV, in their homes, every day!  And for United, producing the first gospel music show to air on the new Bounce TV is truly a God-given door of opportunity and we are truly blessed to have the network’s vote of confidence.” Cartwright states.

Bounce TV, now just two-weeks old, is the first “free TV” over-the-air broadcast network targeted to African Americans.  The Network launched on Monday, September 26, 2011 at 12:00 noon and featured as its first program “The Wiz”, featuring Dianna Ross, Michael Jackson, Richard Pryor, Nipsey Russell and Ted Ross.  “Back Stage Pass” aired on the networK’s second day of broadcasting and continues to air daily at 6:00 – 7:00 AM/ET and 5:00 – 6:00 PM/ET with back to back episodes.  The network has initially coupled “Back Stage Pass” with the original episodes of Soul Train for a daily dose of inspiration and some very enjoyable TV viewing. 
 

About United Television

Founded in 1996 to manage local TV and radio stations, the company launched The Gospel Superfest Television brand in the year 2000 in Louisville, KY.  Currently the firm produces live TV recording events, weekly TV series, daily strips, and syndicated network specials. United’s flagship event Gospel Superfest, became The Allstate Gospel Superfest in the year 2008. Gospel Superfest TV programming reaches millions of TV viewers annually via domestic syndication, over-the-air broadcast and�cable networks. The firm has made history as the first producer of faith-based programming airing on the newly launched Bounce TV Network, twelve consecutive years in US domestic syndication and a nine consecutive seasons on TBN. All simultaneously.  United’s TV properties, GSF seasonally themed specials, Back Stage Pass and Superfest, have been carried on major networks including The Trinity Broadcasting Network (the world’s largest Christian TV network), GMC, Daystar, ION and the Word Network.  In syndication the Allstate Gospel Superfest airs on ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, CW, MYTV affiliated stations throughout the US, the Caribbean and Canada.  United Television is a subsidiary of Unity Media Limited of Ohio and founded by husband and wife team Bobby and Renita Cartwright.  The firm is based in the Cincinnati, OH area.

About Bounce TV

Bounce TV is the first African American broadcast network, featuring a programming mix of theatrical motion pictures, sporting events, documentaries, specials, inspirational faith-based programming, off network series, original programming and more.  Bounce TV founders include Martin Luther King, III, Ambassador Andrew Young, Andrew “Bo” Young, III and Rob Hardy and Will Packer, co-founders of Rain Forest Films, one of the top African American production companies in the world.  The Bounce TV network can be viewed in over forty US TV markets including, Chicago, Atlanta, Houston, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Hartford, Charlotte, Cleveland, Milwaukee, Columbus, Dayton, Cincinnati, Kansas City, Memphis, Nashville, Indianapolis, New Orleans, Richmond, Norfolk, Louisville, Jackson, Birmingham, Little Rock, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach and a host of other major US cities. (www.bouncetv.com)

For more information and broadcast times for BCJ’ Back Stage Pass on The Bounce TV network please visit www.bouncetv.com.  For more information on United Television’ Back Stage Pass please visit www.gospelsuperfest.com .  Press inquiries can be sent to unitedtv@msn.com.

Seven-time Grammy-winning Contemporary Gospel superstar, host of BET’s Sunday Best and author of The Blueprint: A Plan for Living Above Life’s Storms, Kirk Franklin will embark on his ground-breaking nationwide Fearless Tour, visiting fifteen states in four weeks. The tour kicks off on November 1, 2011 (see full listing of tour dates & cities below) and will feature special guests Isaac Carree, BET Sunday Best winner Amber Bullock and Verity Recording artists Deon Kipping and Jason Nelson. Franklin will be touring in support of his 12th and latest CD masterpiece, Hello Fear – featuring the chart-topping single “I Smile.”

Following his inspiring surprise performance on the recent American Idol Finale and a number of high profile appearances, including Late Night w/Jimmy Fallon & The Mo’Nique Show, Franklin’s single, “I Smile” spent 23 weeks at #1 on Billboard’s Gospel Songs chart and is currently holding strong at #2. The song is #3 on the Urban AC chart. The album, Hello Fear, which debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Gospel sales chart and #5 on the Billboard Top-200 is a continuation and reflection of the living legend’s sixteen year music career.

Franklin is especially passionate about performing songs from the Hello Fear project, as the specific message of facing our deep fears in this current economic situation and times of uncertainty in this life, have a deeper impact than ever before. His own life experiences, revelations and lessons learned bring him new motivation and inspiration to let these messages be heard.

Franklin is once again partnering with the American Heart Association’s “Power to End Stroke” campaign to increase awareness and to educate the African American community about their risk of stroke — the third leading cause of death of all Americans and a leading cause of long-term disability among African Americans. Franklin will use his voice to help his fans understand that stroke is largely preventable by watching your diet, getting regular exercise and not smoking. He also will share the importance of knowing your individual risk factors, such as family history, high blood pressure or diabetes, as well as working with health care providers to manage risk.

Through dynamic performances and show-stopping moments, the Fearless Tour will give fans a chance to hear Kirk Franklin’s music as they never have before, yet still experience the creativity and high-energy that fans have come to expect from his powerful performances. Audiences will hear music from Hello Fear, which will include new songs with deep personal meaning to Franklin, as well as those that have made Franklin one of the greatest performers of our time. The tour will introduce Kirk’s fans to an eclectic and all-points-reaching approach to music ministry, with performances that span the musical styles of gospel, soul, hip hop, pop and beyond.

“I have learned so much. I want to take those lessons as well as my own experiences as a man who grew up with one foot in the church and one foot in the streets, and use that to connect with this generation.” Franklin aims to share these lessons with young, urban audiences while on the Fearless Tour.

About Kirk Franklin:

Kirk Franklin is the biggest-selling contemporary gospel artist in the history of SoundScan, with over 14 million albums sold to date and over 20 #1 singles at gospel radio. Franklin made music history in 1993 with the release of his debut album, Kirk Franklin and the Family, which became the first gospel album to sell more than one million units. In 2009, Franklin’s eleventh CD, The Fight of My Life, was awarded two GRAMMY® Awards for Best Contemporary R&B Gospel Album and Best Gospel Song for “Help Me Believe.” It follows his previous RIAA-certified platinum CD, Hero, which remained in the Top 10 on the Billboard charts for close to two years after its release.

To date, the musical trendsetter has garnered seven GRAMMY® Awards; an American Music Award; 35 Stellar Awards (gospel); 12 Dove Awards (CCM); four NAACP Image Awards; two BET Music Awards, a Soul Train Award and numerous others. In January 2011, Franklin was honored at the 26th Annual Stellar Awards with the Thomas A. Dorsey Most Notable Achievement Award for his humanitarian efforts on behalf of Artists United for Haiti for the ground-breaking single, “Are You Listening.”

About the American Heart Association:

The American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association are devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke – America’s No. 1 and No. 3 killers. We team with millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies, and provide lifesaving tools and information to prevent and treat these diseases. The Dallas-based American Heart Association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. The American Stroke Association is a division of the American Heart Association. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-800-AHA-USA1, visit heart.org or call any of our offices around the country.

For additional information about the Fearless Tour, Hello Fear and Kirk Franklin, please visit, www.kirkfranklin.com.

Kirk Franklin Fearless Tour (all dates are subject to change)

*American Heart Association sponsored tour dates

In an effort to continuously advance the Dove Awards process, last week the Gospel Music Association (GMA) Board of Directors voted unanimously to change membership rules and the voting process for the GMA Dove Awards. All changes will be recognized with the upcoming 43rd Annual GMA Dove Awards.

Decided in a recent GMA Board meeting in Nashville, it was determined that record company paid memberships will now be limited to a cap of 75 professional members. This cap will include any persons working on Christian/gospel projects from affiliated companies, but will not include artists, songwriters or producers. In addition, parent companies will no longer be eligible to become professional members.

In addition, the GMA Dove Awards will move to the Borda count method for the entire voting process. This method is further explained below, and is one of the better known methods for tallying ranked ballots, currently used by the Associated Press (AP) and the United Press International (UPI) to rank teams in NCAA college sports.

Lastly, each category within the GMA Dove Awards will decrease from the current seven nominees to five nominees for the final round ballot.

“The Dove Awards has a tremendous legacy as well as a vibrant future in representing our people and the music we treasure. It is vital that we stay current: I believe adjustments will help us keep the process relevant,” remarked Jackie Patillo, Executive Director of the Gospel Music Association.

“In our efforts to grow and serve our membership, it is our responsibility to continually look at areas that need change or improvement,” remarked Chairman of the Board Mitchell Solarek. “I am proud of the board members and their willingness to be open to change, while celebrating the history of this association. There have been so many things to be proud of this year; a sold out Dove Awards, an increase in television ratings and more press than ever. This change in our voting procedure is another example of looking toward the future, while building on the past.”

About GMA:

Founded in 1964, the Gospel Music Association serves as the face and voice for the Gospel/Christian music community and is dedicated to exposing, promoting and 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. The GMA community consists of members including agents, artists, church leaders, managers, promoters, radio personnel, record company executives, retailers, songwriters and other industry visionaries. The GMA produces the GMA Dove Awards, GMA Dove Week and IMMERSE. For more on supporting the GMA or becoming a member, please visit www.gospelmusic.org or contact the GMA directly at 615.277.1376.

Steve Jobs’ death has garnered a number of reactions, but none as bizarre as this. Westboro Baptist Church leader Margie J. Phelps has announced that the group will picket the Apple co-founder’s funeral, condemning him for “teaching his neighbors to sin.” While their actual reasons for promoting the picket seem a bit unclear, how Phelps made the announcement is causing quite a stir (and garnering a few laughs).

She tweeted from an iPhone.

The tweet that has critics pointing out the irony says little more than “He is in hell.” The controversial church seems to be sticking by their words, however, ignoring criticism of the method used to get out their message.

The first shocking tweet is below.

Click Here to Read the full story by the Huffington Post

BET’s “Sunday Best” runner-up Jessica Reedy debuts at the top of the Billboard Gospel Album Chart this week with the September 27, 2011 release of her debut album, From The Heart, on Light Records. Produced and co-written by Warryn Campbell, Reedy, Claude Kelly, Chuck Harmony, James “Big Jim” Wright, Shep Crawford, Daniel Moore, and Mali Music, From The Heart features the outstanding Faith Evans, The Soul Seekers and Doc Powell, and is an album dedicated to true vocal style and Reedy’s personal charisma that is all about love, honesty, praising God and embracing her purpose. In addition to claiming the #1 spot on the Billboard Gospel Album Chart in its first week of release, From The Heart premiered on the Christian & Gospel iTunes Chart at #1.

This year has been a bit of a whirlwind for Reedy between recording and releasing her freshman album, having it debut at #1, all while consistently touring the U.S. to promote the project and her career. Some of her upcoming promotional dates include: New York, NY (10/10); Philadelphia, PA (10/11); Muncie, IN (10/15); Dallas, TX (10/18); Chicago, IL (10/21; 12/9); Washington, DC (10/22-23); Baton Rouge, LA (10/28); Columbus, OH (10/29); Alaska (11/10-14); Baltimore, MD (11/19); Charlotte, NC (11/21); Buffalo, NY (12/4); Lagos, Nigeria (12/13). Reedy will also appear on BET’s “Bobby Jones Gospel” on 10/16 at 9:00am ET/PT to perform her single, “Put It On The Altar,” and the hymn, “Peace Be Still.”

On the album, the current radio favorite and summer smash, “Put It On The Altar,” was co-written by Reedy and speaks to finding a solution to one’s problems. Yet it is the lead single off From The Heart, “God Has Smiled On Me,” that showcases Reedy’s one-of-a-kind voice, incomparable range and arresting low register. Another standout favorite on From The Heart is “Blue God,” a profoundly moving song speaking to our selfishness in our relationships with God. Penned and produced by fellow rising star Mali Music, the song evokes feelings of sadness, and the heaviness and sultry approach by Reedy gives the song literal and figurative weight.

“I would have to describe my music as ‘heart songs’,” said Reedy. “It’s music from my heart about the One I love the MOST. I don’t really know the style or category it fits in … it’s just me.”

Reedy first gained national attention as a contestant on the second season of the national TV competition BET’s “Sunday Best.” After auditioning in Washington DC, she quickly found herself in the Top 20 performing on the main stage for judges Mary Mary and Bebe Winans. Reedy made it all the way to the finals where she was eventually named runner-up.

For her debut album, Reedy called upon industry pals The Soul Seekers to appear on the great Quartet-esque “Still Here,” written by Doug Williams and featuring Teddy Campbell. Showing musical savvy and versatility, Reedy also offers the ultra Disco-esque “Doctor Love” featuring Faith Evans, a remake of the 70’s dance floor classic. Other notable songs include “So In Love With You (Amazing),” “When I Close My Eyes” featuring Doc Powell, which Reedy co-wrote and produced with renowned songwriters James “Big Jim” Wright and Daniel Moore. ‘Super-producer’ Warryn Campbell lent his talents to several tracks including “Still Here,” “Marching On” and “Doctor Love.”

National Recording Artist and Oprah’s Pop Star winner LaShell Griffin’s NEW single “Jesus Said” is picking up momentum and IMPACTING RADIO NOW. It was chosen as “The Power Pick Of The Week” and will aired Tuesday Sept 27th across the country on The Nationally Syndicated Donnie McKlurkin Radio Show in major markets like Atlanta on Praise 102.5 FM, Chicago 1390am WGRB, in Detroit, San Fransisco, St Louis and in Jamaica. The contemporary head shaking shoulder bouncing cut was added a few weeks back to The Rejoice Musical Soulfood Network charting on BDS INDICATOR MOST ADDED CHART and was also just added to a top #5 market KGGR in Dallas, TX and WLOU in Louisville, KY. Additionally the single made it’s National debut 1st on The Coco Brother Show and aired in top ten markets such as Atlanta, Houston, DC, and Philly.

In other news LaShell has been asked to perform The National Anthem in October by her hometown Detroit Tigers for The American League Championship series next week. With a win tonight against The New York Yankees The Tigers will advance to play The Texas Rangers With a chance to advance to The World Series. GO TIGERS!!!!!!!! Look for her on National Television during the series (TBA)! LaShell who has performed the anthem for President Barack Obama (7) times, The Detroit Pistons, Detroit Shock, The New York Mets and others is simply one of the best when it comes to performing it. As a testament to God’s favor on her life, there has never been a loss by the home team when she has opened the game.

LaShell’s team is also agressively pursuing roles for her in the upcoming film “The Mahalia Jackson” story and in a major commercial spot with leading African American Marketing Company Burrell Adverstising.

Look for LaShell’s new poem book this holiday season as well.

October 5, 2011 – Eddie James knows how to bring the people of God into His presence. The dynamic singer and songwriter and the founder of the renowned Phoenix Mass Choir has been on a roll lately. The artist, who’s known for writing riveting and God-directed praise and worship songs, is also the owner of Fresh Wine Records. His fans have been supporting his releases on the label catapulting him to the national charts.

On the Billboard Top Gospel Albums chart, James is charting with three different projects: Freedom Live is at # 24, God is resting at #32 and The Phoenix Mass Choir: Victory is sitting at the #47 spot. The noted songwriter also has other impressive placements. The lead single from his recent release, God, “I Need You”, has been catching the attention of radio with the song placing at #65 on the BDS charts and #58 on the Mediabase charts. Also, the new single, “The Battle”, from The Phoenix Mass Choir: Victory is at the #115 spot on the BDS chart and at #114 on the Mediabase chart.

New stations are adding the songs weekly and James is excited at the response the singles are receiving. “The Battle”, a traditional and gut-wrenching choir track, does not feature James, but instead includes the lead vocal talents of Kerry Vaughn, Celia King and Bridgette Kern. “I Need You”, a soft and emotive love song to God, is breathtaking. Fans of the artist should look out for the upcoming single from God entitled, “I Am”.

In addition to his success at radio, Eddie James will be making an appearance as the musical guest on the Trinity Broadcast Network. Hosted by comedian John Gray, the Praise The Lord episode will be airing on Tuesday, October 11, 2011, and will feature James singing his most popular songs; please check local listings for air times. In addition, Eddie James is also prepping for a Christmas release. The first holiday project from the artist will contain two lead singles, “He Is Here” and “Jesus Saves”, which will be serviced to radio in late October by Edmondson Communications, Inc. More information about James’ upcoming release is to be announced.

Eddie James’ ministry is currently headquartered in Hamilton, AL, where he also operates DreamLife. He’s been seeing young people come to the Lord in record numbers. “I see the youth crying out for a real experience with the Living God,” says James. “We are finding God raising up a generation that is truly hungry for the presence of God. He is visiting this generation in a very profound way, and impacting young and seasoned saints in a life changing way. We are seeing young people being set free and crying out to God for our nation, their schools, communities and families. It is exciting to be part of such a move.” For more information about Eddie James, log on to www.ejworship.org.

Excitement brews daily as Shirley Murdock gets closer to the release of her new CD/DVD, Live: The Journey on October 18th. Throughout her travels, Murdock has shared new music from The Journey with fans across the country including her current single “Dream”.

One of Shirley’s strengths is her ability to connect with fans during her performances. She has remained consistent in her call of winning souls to Christ. No matter the city or venue, Shirley makes it known that she walks with God and He is her source!

In addition to radio success and national TV performances, Shirley has also made a name for herself in various successful stage plays.

On October 7-9th, in New York City, Murdock will share her talent as an actress in the hilarious, inspirational and entertaining play “Loving Him is Killing Me” at the Beacon Theatre. Fans will have a chance to enjoy Murdock as she joins other casts members and also sings her current single “Dream”.

Murdock’s acting role in “Loving Him Is Killing Me” is a huge opportunity for her to share her many talents during preparation for the release of the CD/DVD, Live: The Journey. The Journey was produced by Grammy Award winning producer, Cedric Thompson and features a few of Shirley’s friends, Kelly Price, Beverly Crawford and Regina Belle. From beginning to end, music lovers will enjoy songs which acknowledge God through praise and worship and speak of destiny, hope and unity. The Journey is a great representation of Shirley’s heart and personal journey.

Loving Him Is Killing Me Stage Play:

Oct 7-9, 2011-Beacon Theatre- New York, NY

For More Information: www.ticketmaster.com or www.beacontheatre.com

Clementine Camille trilogy of novels spans the love relationship years of Clementine Brown, an African-American young woman and Tyler Roberts, a Caucasian-American young man, from their meeting as high school students through their maturity, when the inevitability of death threatens to destroy the survivor. Along the way, the novels portrays both the ways in which the couple deal with the intrusive facts of American racism as well as, more important, their remarkably supportive families and friends, who contribute to the couples’ ability to grow beyond prejudice and simply learn to love one another.

Path got the chance to ask the esteemed author a few questions about his novels. 

1. Tell us a little bit about the CLEMENTINE CAMILLE trilogy.

In January, 2002, I was busy redrafting my way through a four novel series, THE BOOKS OF GENESIS, when I woke up one morning with Clementine and Tyler fully formed in my imagination. I could see them. I understood their relationship. I understood they would face problems with racial prejudice, but not from their families. I resolved to let them take me along with them on what I assumed were going to be a series of adventures. (They were full grown adults in the first scene, but what was going to matter was that Tyler was going to tell the story of loving Clementine and all that it involved, and it involved many, many things I did not yet know were coming and did not yet understand.) From that day on, I got up every morning and followed the maxim, “Where are you two taking me today?” I mean it. They were alive; they led; I followed. It was an adventure. It was not always easy for them, but it was an adventure for me. I admit there’s a whole lot of “wish fulfillment” in the story as it unfolded; a whole lot of gritty truth in terms of what they must go through but a whole lot of fanticizing for me. However, what I did not realize as i began was the number of serious highly personal Ronald Vierling psychological issues that were going to be exorcised through writing their stories and their story. That would take some explaining, but the fact is a number of issues that drive THE BOOKS OF GENESIS also drive the CLEMENTINE TRILOGY. I would be happy to provide a list.

2 What promoted you to write this novel?

My other writing (THE BOOKS OF GENESIS and the two books of Judaia plays) portray people who succeed but only after some really hard and bitter confrontations with others and with themselves. I now recognize I wanted to write a love story. I wanted to write a story about two people who deal with tough situations and wonderful situations with the same kind of grace and intelligence. I wanted to really and truly enjoy the adventure. I wanted to get inside a hero would was head over heals in love with a splendid and remarkable young woman. I wanted a chance to be in love with Lisa Surles, the model for Clementine’s character. One more important point: when I was in junior high school I began hearing adults say “if you want to understand America you have to understand baseball.” I knew that was wrong the first time I heard it. I knew from all my grandfather George Vierling had told me about his experiences as a chef in downtown Des Moines and the stories my dad told me about seeing black people not get a fair shake and what I was reading about slavery and the legacy of slavery and the black jazz musicians I came to admire and the black athletes I came to admire that if you really wanted to understand America you had to understand race. Everything about America from the colonial era to today hinges on that issue. It’s just that most white people “didn’t want to go there.” Even my school teachers never expressed any outrage at the history of slavery and the history of prejudice and the history of real estate “red lining”. I was prepared to “go there” because I didn’t know any other way of facing myself in the mirror.

3. What are some of the recent novels that you’ve read that you absolutely admire?

I re-read MOBY-DICK about once every two years. I re-read WAR AND PEACE when I’m not reading MOBY-DICK. I adore Jane Austen, but what writer doesn’t. E.M. Forster’s novels are brilliant. The best 20th century novel is William Faulkner’s novella “The Bear.” I read that outloud about once a year. Otherwise, I read history. Of course, let’s face it; writing novels takes up 80% of my time. So one could argue I read my own novels in draft form. (It always seems to take five drafts to write each of my novels.)

4. What or who is your inspiration?

I am inspired by several of Shakespeare’s plays, but Melville, Tolstory, Faulkner. Most of all, I was inspired by my affection and respect for Lisa Surles. I am inspired by the African-American women I know. I want to tell stories that they will read and enjoy and believe tell a brand of truth that no other white man has told.

5. What advice would you give an up and coming writer?

Know your characters. Trust your characters. Follow your characters wherever they want to go. If you are honest with them, if you are not trying to make them do something you want and not what they want, you will get along fine. If you try to fit them into a preconceived mold, they will not only not fit, they will not go; they will probably desert you, which they should. Characters trust writers to do them justice. That is your obligation. Do right by them and they will do right by you.

CLICK HERE to Purchase the book and read Excerpts

About the Author:
Born in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1938, Ronald was educated in the public schools before attending the Chicago Art Institute. After service in the army, he completed his B.F.A. Degree in Art and English at Drake University in 1963. He then began a forty-year teaching career at five college preparatory independent schools in California, Missouri and Florida, taking time to earn his M.A. Degree in English from the University of Wyoming, where he studied with scholar Keith Hull and poet and novelist Robert Roripaugh. In 1989, he studied at Yad Vashem Institute, Jerusalem, Israel; more recently, he has studied at the University of Wales, Swansea. The father of five adult children, Ronald lives with his wife in Orlando, Florida. While Ronald retired from teaching in 2002 and part time teaching in 2005, he continues to be active as a second grade Read2Succeed mentor in Orlando. For speaking engagements, book signings and interviews, contact Rhetta Peoples at (407) 230-7686 or via email at rhetta@oncreativestreet.com. Be sure to follow Ronald Vierling on Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/ClemCamille or @ClemCamille or Like the Clementine Camille Trilogy fan page on Facebook.