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Will Smith to Star as Cain in the Biblical Story of Cain & Abel

Written By: admin on Friday, July 16th, 2010
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Will Smith will star as the title character in The Legend Of Cain, a re-telling of the Biblical sibling rivalry tale.

Viewer be ware.  The story will have a vampire twist. Yes, more vampires. 

Biblical tale: Cain, the older son of Adam and Eve, kills younger brother Abel out of jealousy and anger.

Smith will also produce with Overbrook Entertainment partners Jada Pinkett Smith (his wife), James Lassiter, and Ken Stovitz.

The script was written by Caleeb Pinkett and Dan Knauf, with Andrea Berloff revising. No studio or director yet for the Overbrook project. The production company is coming off The Karate Kid, which has so far grossed more that. $210 million worldwide. Smith is currently promoting that film internationally and in August he begins filming Men In Black 3.

Will this be another mis-representation of the bible?  WHAT DO YOU THINK of a vampire version of the Cain & Abel story?  Log-in and Comment.

 

ALSO READ: Movie: Blessed & Cursed in Stores

 



Homegoing Celebration for BISHOP WALTER HAWKINS‏ – Dates Announced

Written By: admin on Wednesday, July 14th, 2010
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Homegoing Celebrations for
Bishop Walter L. Hawkins
is as follows:

˜ Musical ˜
Tuesday, July 20th at 7:00pm

˜ Homegoing Service ˜
Wednesday, July 21st at 11:00am

BOTH services will be held at:
Paramount Theatre
2025 Broadway
Oakland, CA 94612-2303
(510) 465-6400

Hotel Information:

Hilton Oakland Airport
1 Hegenberger Road
Oakland, CA 94621
(510) 635-5000

$85.00 a night, plus tax

Must Use “Love Center Ministries, Inc”

They are requesting everyone wear “CREAM” for Wednesday Morning Service!

Walter Hawkins, the Grammy Award-winning gospel singer/composer and pastor of Oakland’s Love Center Church, died @ 2:48 PST July 11th at his home in Ripon. For the last two years, Hawkins has been battling pancreatic cancer. He was 61 years old.

During the 1970s, Walter Hawkins personified a new wave of gospel artists such as his brother Edwin Hawkins of “Oh Happy Day” fame, and Andrae Crouch who brought a youthful contemporary vibe to gospel music. Hawkins cut a series of best-selling “Love Alive” LPs that remain gospel classics to this day. Hawkins’ songs have been recorded by a who’s who in music ranging from Aretha Franklin and “American Idol” champ Ruben Studdard to Vickie Winans and M.C. Hammer.

“The impact that Walter Hawkins had on gospel music was so profound and far-reaching that it is now, and forever shall be, part of gospel’s DNA,” says gospel music historian, Bob Marovich, who edits The Black Gospel Blog.

Hawkins was born May 18, 1949 in Oakland, CA. Reared in the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) denomination, Hawkins became a master pianist as well as a dynamic singer with an operatic vocal range. His brother, Edwin, had already made a name for himself in 1969 when “Oh Happy Day” became an international hit. While studying for his master’s of divinity degree from the University of California at Berkeley, Hawkins recorded his first LP “Do Your Best” in 1972. An October 1972 Billboard magazine reviewer wrote, “Walter Hawkins is a pianist of enviable accomplishments while his vocal prowess is in no way disputable. He’s gathered around him an exceptional crew of sidemen and vocalists and the total effect is completely invigorating.”

The following year, Hawkins became a pastor and founded the Love Center Church in East Oakland. After forming the Love Center Choir, he recorded their first album as a church family. He used $1,800 he borrowed from his mother-in-law to complete the project. It was the first in a series of LPs named “Love Alive” and it debuted on Light Records in 1975. The album featured his then-wife, Tramaine, leading “Changed” and “Goin’ Up Yonder” which became two of the biggest gospel songs of the decade. A runaway smash, the “Love Alive” album sold a staggering 300,000 copies. The five “Love Alive” LPs featured classic gospel songs such as “I Love the Lord,” “Be Grateful,” “I’m Goin’ Away,” “Thank You, Lord” and “Until, I Found the Lord.”

In the `80s, Hawkins recorded a number of solo LPs and produced a number of artists, including Tramaine.

Although, he had earned nine Grammy Award nominations during his career, Hawkins only won one for his performance on “The Lord’s Prayer” LP in 1980 (he also performed on the televised Grammy Awards ceremony that year). In 1990, Hawkins released “Love Alive III” which became the biggest seller of the “Love Alive” album series. The radio favorites were “There’s A War Going On”, ” I Love You, Lord” and “He’ll Bring You Out.” The LP spent 34 weeks at #1 on the Billboard gospel album sales chart during the almost 100 weeks it spent on the survey. The album went on to sell over a million copies. The 1993 “Love Alive IV” also peaked at #1 on the album sales chart and spent a year on the survey. In between projects, Hawkins was ordained a Bishop in October 1992.

As elder statesmen in gospel, Hawkins become a favorite for cameo appearances in recent years. The Mississippi Mass Choir had a hit with him on “Hold, On, Soldier” in 1993 and Donald Lawrence & the TriCity Singers watched him steal the show on “Seasons” from their “Go Get Your Life Back” CD in 2002. The 2001 “Love Alive V” CD featured a huge comeback hit for Hawkins with the ballad, “Marvelous.” Hawkins’ final solo CD “A Song in My Heart” won a Stellar Award for Traditional Gospel Album of the Year in 2006. He was inducted into the Christian Music Hall of Fame in 2007.

After surgery for pancreatic cancer in late 2008, the Hawkins Family (Walter, Edwin, Tramaine, and sister, Lynette) staged a successful, multi-city Hawkins Family reunion concert tour. At the time of his death, Hawkins was planning a new “Love Alive” CD concert recording for this fall.

Hawkins relished being a pastor as much as he enjoyed singing. “Early on I thought my ministry and my music were apart from each other. But now I see they work hand-in-hand,” he once said. “I can go a lot of places with my music that I can’t go as a pastor and vice versa. The purpose of both is getting the message out to people. I’ve had some material blessings and it’s okay to have them, but to be blessed with peace of mind and joy in your life, that’s when you will be truly fulfilled.”

Hawkins is survived by his two children, Walter “Jamie” and Trystan Hawkins; daughter-in-law, Myiia Hawkins; two grandchildren Jamie-Daniel and Jahve; a host of nieces and nephews; the Love Center Church family and Choir; and his siblings Carol, Feddie, Edwin, Daniel, and Lynette.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

Media Contact:

Bill Carpenter
202-506-5051 or carpenterbill@me.com



Fred Hammond to Release New CD July 27th

Written By: admin on Wednesday, July 14th, 2010
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Internationally renown gospel artist Fred Hammond has collaborated with philanthropist Roy Campbell, his business partner, under a distribution agreement with Universal Music Christian Group for a brand new project called “Life in the Word.”

The album will feature some of the world’s greatest gospel artists.

“We are honored that Fred Hammond chose UMCG as the place where he could develop and unfurl his vision,” said Rhoda Lawrence, Vice President of UMCG. “People are thirsty for music that tackles everyday issues in their lives and they want it delivered in a way that speaks to them. Fred Hammond has the talent and the vision to propel gospel music to new heights; appealing to and inspiring music fans of all age groups and walks of life. Fred is passionate about artistry and about his lifelong mission to transform people’s lives. When you have the opportunity to play a part in something of this magnitude, first you pinch yourself and then you get to work.”

This great project will be released for purchase July 27 of this year. The first single, “You Do Great Things” is the first great primer of the production.

“The opportunity to form my label couldn’t come at a better time,” said Hammond, President and CEO of fHammond Family Entertainment. “Out of the box thinking and creativity is what we are producing here.  The projects that we have in development will further my artistic expression and expose my devoted music fans and beyond to another dimension of the Fred Hammond brand.”

Other great singles include “Dwelling Place,” a devotional song of praise, “Hiding Place” and “Need My Time With You.”


Also Read: The Legendary Keith Pringle Back With New CD – In Stores & Online 



The Word Network’s “The Lexi Show” Comes To An End

Written By: admin on Tuesday, July 13th, 2010
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Cable TV personality/singer, Lexi’s weekly television program, “The Lexi Show,” has come to an end.

The critically acclaimed talk show ran on The Word Network (a Detroit based Christian cable channel), for four seasons.

Throughout its history, the popular show became known for Lexi’s candid and often controversial conversations with gospel celebrities.

On her program, Grammy-nominated artist Tonex publicly admitted for the first time that he had been involved in homosexual relationships.

Lexi’s also interviewed the ex-wife of gospel legend Bebe Winans about allegations that the platinum-selling recording artist had domestically abused her.

“The Lexi Show” broke barriers in Christian journalism by talking about real life issues that are often swept under the rug in ecclesiastical circles.

“I’m overwhelmed with the unbelievable number of letters, phone calls and e-mails I’ve received in support of my show,” the former Stellar Award nominee says.

“I’m thankful and grateful to all of the fans of the show and will have a new home for the show soon.”

Fans can view past episodes of “The Lexi Show” online via YouTube at:
http://www.youtube.com/lexitelevision



Path MEGAzine.com is sad to report the passing of gospel pioneer and legend Bishop Walter Hawkins

Written By: admin on Monday, July 12th, 2010
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Walter Hawkins is dead at 61-years-old. The Grammy Award winning Gospel singer died of pancreatic cancer at his home in Ripon, California.  Path MEGAzine.com will keep you informed as the funeral arrangements are made available.  Please keep the hawkins family in prayer.  Listen to one of my favorite songs from Walter.  “When the Battle is Over” & “Goin’ Up Yonder.”

 

“Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”
 
– Matthew 5:3-9

Path MEGAzine.com is sad to report the passing of gospel pioneer and legend  Bishop Walter Hawkins


TRIP LEE DEBUTS AT #1 ON BILLBOARD CHRISTIAN AND GOSPEL CHARTS

Written By: admin on Monday, July 5th, 2010
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Reach Records recording artist Trip Lee’s highly-anticipated third studio album, Between Two Worlds, has debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top Christian Albums Chart and Top Gospel Albums Chart. In addition, the album landed at #58 on the Billboard Top 200, making it one of the week’s top-selling debuts in all genres.

Within hours of the June 22nd release, Between Two Worlds debuted in the Top 10 Albums Chart at iTunes, peaking at #7, and sharing Top 10 status with new releases from Eminem, Miley Cyrus, Ozzy Osbourne and others. The debut of Between Two Worlds bests Trip Lee’s 2008 release, 20/20, which debuted at #193 on the Billboard Top 200 and peaked at #11 on Billboard’s Top Christian Albums chart and #4 on the Top Gospel Albums chart. “After watching Trip Lee craft this album over many months of hard work, we are excited to release such a strong project,” says Ben Washer, co-founder and CEO of Reach Records. “Due to the incredible support from fans, the response has exceeded our expectations.

We are proud to be a part of Trip’s ministry and look forward to the impact he will have.” Between Two Worlds features guest performances by Lecrae, Sho Baraka, Jimmy Needham, Thi’sl and Jai, who is featured on the first radio single, “The Invasion (Hero).”

Between Two Worlds is available now at iTunes and wherever music is sold. Deluxe and vinyl versions are available online at www.merchline.com/reach/, and an exclusive version with bonus content is also available at all Family Christian Stores (in-store only).

Reach Records is distributed by Infinity Music Distribution. For more information, or to sample Between Two Worlds, visit www.reachrecords.com.



Da’ T.R.U.T.H. Celebrates Eighth Wedding Anniversary With Vow Renewal & Issues Public Statement

Written By: admin on Tuesday, June 29th, 2010
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Acclaimed Christian Hip Hop Artist Da’ T.R.U.T.H. renewed his wedding vows with beautiful wife Nicole Lambert earlier this week on Tuesday, June 15th—their eighth wedding anniversary. This special event punctuated the completion of their official restoration plan—marking the page of a new beginning and giving testimony to the redeeming power of reconciliation.  Additionally, today, he has released a public letter to his family and supporters on his website. The scandal that was well known by fans and supporters can be viewed at the bottom of the article.  Da’ TRUTH had this to say after renewing his vowels. “I cannot begin again, without now seeking your forgiveness as my kingdom family. My behavior was inexcusable, but with God’s grace and mercy I pray you find it forgivable.  It is my sincere prayer that not another person would be ravaged by the sin that nearly destroyed my family at my own hands.” For the full statement visit www.datruth.net.

Da Truth with BeBe & CeCe And Maurette Brown ClarkThe private ceremony, held in their backyard and attended by family and close friends, was officiated by Bishop Gilbert and Mrs. Debi Coleman—the marriage counseling team leading the Lambert’s restoration process.  Also in attendance were Alvin Love & CeCe Winans, who have been walking intimately with the couple as supporting counselors and mentors.  Da’ T.R.U.T.H.’s long-time friend and spiritual father, William “The Ambassador” Branch and his wife Michelle, Maurette Brown Clark and DJ Wade-O—host of The Wade-O Radio show—were in attendance as well.

More than a celebration, this was truly a worship experience where Jesus was the only star.  DJ Wade-O described it as “an out of this world experience.”  He went on to say “Not including my own, I can’t remember being that moved and touched at a wedding ceremony.  The worship was incredible.  Bishop Coleman was tremendous.  And it’s obvious that Manny and Nicole have a lot of great people around them who will continue to support and love them as they enter this new chapter in their relationship.”

As the service came to close, the presence of God was so tangible that Da’ T.R.U.T.H. was moved to share the gospel and an exhortation to married couples.  Through sobs of gratitude, he expressed that “sin was the reason for the breakdown between God and man. It was also the reason for the breakdown between man and man—and with his wife in this case—and Christ is the remedy for both.”  The ceremony also included moving performances by friends and co-laborers CeCe Winans who sang “I Promise” and Maurette Brown Clark who moved everyone with her powerful song “Sovereign God.”

Also Read: Da Truth to Take a Sabbatical from Music & Ministry



How Sweet The Sound Gospel Competition Tour Schedule Announced

Written By: admin on Friday, June 25th, 2010
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Tickets for How Sweet the Sound 2010 go on sale July 5th for Verizon customers and July 10th for the general public.  The scheduled performers and dates are listed below:

Houston, TX
September 9, 2010
Featuring CeCe Winans, Byron Cage

Jacksonville, FL
September 11, 2010
Featuring CeCe Winans, James Fortune

Memphis, TN
September 14, 2010
Featuring CeCe Winans, Dorinda Clark Cole

Philadelphia, PA
September 17, 2010
Featuring CeCe Winans, Lonnie Hunter

Washington, DC
September 18, 2010
Featuring CeCe Winans, Richard Smallwood, Maurette Brown Clark

Newark, NJ
September 22, 2010
Featuring CeCe Winans, Kurt Carr

Cleveland, OH
September 24, 2010
Featuring CeCe Winans, James Fortune

Detroit, MI
September 25, 2010
Featuring CeCe Winans, Kurt Carr

Chicago, IL
September 27, 2010
Featuring CeCe Winans, Dorinda Clark Cole

Charlotte, NC
September 30, 2010
Featuring CeCe Winans, John P. Kee

Atlanta, GA
October 2, 2010
Featuring CeCe Winans, Israel Houghton, Tamela Mann

St. Louis, MO
October 5, 2010
Featuring CeCe Winans, Dwight Stone

Oakland, CA
October 9, 2010
Featuring CeCe Winans, Byron Cage

Los Angeles, CA
October 11, 2010
Featuring CeCe Winans

 

Also See: Performers Announced for BET Awards