Author: Libra Boyd

Libra Nicole Boyd, PhD is a musician, award-winning author, gospel music aficionado, and the founder and editor of Gospel Music Fever™. Her commitment to journalistic integrity includes bringing you reliable gospel music content that uplifts and advances the art form. Libra is presently working on several scholarly projects about gospel music in the media as well as gospel music in social movements.

Brenda Joyce Moore, “Oh Lord, How Excellent” composer, has died

Songwriter and musician Brenda Joyce Moore, whose widely known composition “Perfect Praise” (better known as “Oh Lord, How Excellent”) is in nearly every gospel choir’s repertoire, passed away this morning, April 8th.  Ramon Perry made the announcement on Facebook.  
 
GMF extends sincere condolences to Moore’s family, friends, and the entire Chicago gospel community, and sends prayers for God’s comfort during this difficult time. 

“I Can’t Make It Without You” – Beloved St. John Evangelistic Church

“I Can’t Make It Without You”
Beloved St. John Evangelistic Church
From the album, The Praise Worship Experience (2019)
belovedstjohn.org

By Janie Sheeley-Torain
GMF Special Contributor

“I Can’t Make It Without You” is the single from Beloved St. John Evangelistic Church Music and Arts Ministry’s full-length project, The Praise Worship Experience.  The upbeat praise track is fueled by a punchy bassline that showcases the bass player’s chops and manages to stay out of the way of the singers and other musicians.  Meanwhile, the vertical lyrics, penned by Scot Stevens and driven by enthusiastic vocals of Beloved St. John Evangelistic Church, underscore our dependence on God and remind us perhaps now more than ever in our nation’s dark and divided days that we can rely on Christ to bring us through any situation. 


______________________

Janie Sheeley-Torain, Ed.D, is a gospel music enthusiast, author, National Board Certified Teacher, and life-long educator. She is an advocate of invigorating gospel music that inspires, elevates, and encourages the listener. She has published and is currently working on manuscripts that embolden the musicians of gospel music.

‘The Stellar Awards: Music of Hope’ two-hour special hopes to inspire amid COVID-19 pandemic

CHICAGO, March 31, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — In light of the COVID-19 global pandemic, Central City Productions Inc., the producers of the Stellar Gospel Music Awards brings you an uplifting and encouraging two-hour musical special, “The Stellar Awards: Music of Hope.”
 
Executive producer Don Jackson stated, “During this unprecedented crisis, we produced a special to uplift the country with gospel music performances that inspire hope from the many artists who have gifted us with their songs of inspiration from our Stellar Awards library over the past 34 years.”
 
Hosted by multiple Stellar and Grammy-award winning artist, Kirk Franklin, “The Stellar Awards: Music of Hope” special features songs from previous Stellar Awards classic performances by Tamela Mann, Donnie McClurkin, Michelle Williams featuring Beyonce’ and Kelly Rowland, Marvin Sapp, Lecrae, Canton Jones, Da’ T.R.U.T.H., Yolanda Adams, Bebe and Cece Winans, Hezekiah Walker, Mary Mary, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Jonathan McReynolds, Pastor Shirley Caesar, Brian Courtney Wilson, Patti LaBelle, Ricky Dillard, Karen Clark Sheard, VaShawn Mitchell, Sarah Reeves, Jonathan Butler, Tramaine Hawkins, Travis Greene, Dottie Peoples, and Israel Houghton.
 
“The Stellar Awards: Music of Hope” special will air around the country in broadcast syndication from April 11 through May 24 in more than 216 markets and on Bounce TV on May 24th at 12PM EST (noon). Visit www.stellarawards.com. for a complete list of airdates.
 
“The Stellar Awards: Music of Hope” special leads up to the live taping of the 35th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards on Sunday, August 16, 2020. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com.

Production of 35th Annual Stellar Awards postponed until August 14-16, 2020

GMF Update (5/28/20): On May 28, 2020, Central City Productions announced plans to produce the 35th Annual Stellar Awards as a virtual broadcast, which will replace the live taping that was rescheduled for August 2020.  Read the May 28th press release here: Central City Productions announces plans to produce 35th Annual Stellar Awards as a virtual broadcast
________________________________

(Chicago) – March 17, 2020 – The 2020 Stellar Awards 35th Anniversary Show, in partnership with the Orleans Hotel and Arena, thanks everyone for their patience and understanding as we continue to do our best to bring you the greatest week of events in gospel music.

 
In light of recent news and the declaration of the COVID-19 crisis as a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO), the 35th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards will now take place August 14-16, 2020. Ticket information for all events is as follows:
 
35TH ANNUAL STELLAR AWARDS – ORLEANS ARENA TICKETS ORLEANS ARENA TICKETS (REFUND OPTIONAL) – Tickets purchased for the 35th Annual Stellar Awards at the Orleans Arena and Hotel will automatically transfer over to the new date, August 16, 2020. If you purchased a ticket for the 35th Annual Stellar Awards via Ticketmaster and want a refund, go to your Ticketmaster account and select the “Refund” button within your order.
 
35TH ANNUAL STELLAR AWARDS PRE-SHOW; STELLAR AWARDS LAUGH OUT LOUD COMEDY SHOW; AND GOSPEL MUSIC RADIO AWARDS – ORLEANS HOTEL SHOWROOM ORLEANS SHOWROOM TICKETS (MUST BE REFUNDED) – All tickets purchased for the Stellar Awards Showroom events noted above will require new tickets so each will be refunded. We are currently rescheduling those events in the Showroom and all dates and times for the Showroom events are forthcoming. If you purchased a ticket for the Showroom events via Ticketmaster, go to your Ticketmaster account and select the “Refund” button within your order.
 
REMINDER: CANCEL YOUR HOTEL RESERVATIONS FOR THE MARCH DATES – Please contact your Las Vegas hotel to cancel your reservation for the March dates. Your hotel should give you the option for a full refund (if deposit was required) or you can transfer dates (pending availability) for the August dates. Central City Productions/The Stellar Awards is not responsible for any cancellation fees or lost deposits you may incur from failure to cancel your reservations by the deadlines imposed by each hotel.
 
Please follow our accounts on social media @thestellars and check our website www.thestellarawards.com for updates from Central City Productions.
 
It is our hope and prayer that with quick community action, we can do our part toward the solution to this global problem. We encourage our families to continue to keep the mission of the gospel music community at heart and support each other with prayer and responsible preparation through this trying time.
 
We thank everyone for 35 years of support of the Stellar Gospel Music Awards and we look forward to safely celebrating this special milestone with everyone soon!
 
Don Jackson, CEO
Central City Productions
 
 
 

Passing: Billie Barrett Greenbey of the Barrett Sisters

By Libra Boyd
Gospel Music Fever

Billie Barrett Greenbey has passed on, Dr. Patricia James Holloway informed GMF Friday morning (Feb. 28).  She was 91 years old, or to hear the classy and sassy legendary singer tell it, “39 and holding.”

Auntie Billie, as I affectionately called her, was one-third of the famed Barrett Sisters.  Her older sister Delois Barrett Campbell died in 2011 (see related story).  Younger sister Rodessa Barrett Porter is now the sole surviving member of the singing trio.

Whether leading or backing, Auntie Billie’s robust contralto was a perfect complement to her sisters, helping them earn the nickname, “Sweet Sisters of Zion.”  Albertina Walker once proclaimed, “I’ll tell the world, ain’t no greater singers than these Barrett girls.  They’re the singingest honeys!”

GMF joins the masses in extending heartfelt sympathy to daughter Tina, sister Rodessa, and the entire family.  We hold them in prayer now and in the days ahead.

I will play music in tribute to Auntie Billie during the Gospel Music Fever Radio Show on Monday, March 9, at 1 PM ET.  Be sure to tune in at kwaygospel.com.

Here’s more from The Journal of Gospel Music’s Bob Marovich: RIP Billie Barrett Greenbey, Member of the Barrett Sisters

 
 

Homegoing celebration for LaTonya Earl set for this weekend

By Libra Boyd
Gospel Music Fever

Gospel Music Fever was heartbroken to learn of the passing of songstress Dr. LaTonya Earl.  LaTonya perished Valentine’s Day in a car collision in Houston, TX.  She was 49 years old.  

LaTonya is known in the gospel community as a gifted singer, songwriter, musician, and longtime worship director at The Church at Bethel’s Family in Houston.  Her talent has garnered widespread recognition among her peers and earned her multiple Rhythm of Gospel and Texas Gospel Music Excellence Awards. 

I met LaTonya in 2013 at the Rhythm of Gospel Awards, as we were seat buddies at the main show.  That single encounter birthed a friendship that continued til her demise.  I had the privilege of interviewing LaTonya in 2013.  You can read it here: LaTonya Earl: Her Story, Her Song

Heartfelt sympathy and prayers are extended to her husband Rev. Walter Earl, children Britney, Amber, and Drew, grandson Roman, and her entire biological and spiritual family during this undoubtedly difficult time.

Rev. Walter August, senior pastor of The Church at Bethel’s Family, announced homegoing arrangements for LaTonya Tuesday via Facebook.  The public viewings and services will take place at The Church at Bethel’s Family, located at 12660 Sandpiper Drive in Houston, TX.

Friday, February 21, 2020
Viewing
3 – 6 PM CST

Celebration Musical 
6:30 PM

Saturday, February 22, 2020
Viewing
8:30 – 10 AM

Homegoing Celebration
10 AM

Mondre Bynum of Mondre and Divine passes away

Herb McFadden informed GMF yesterday (January 30, 2020) that Mondre Bynum made his transition.  He was 39 years old.

Bynum was a songwriter, producer, author, and lead singer of the eastern North Carolina based group Mondre and Divine, whose music includes “Jesus Makes Me Smile,” “So Amazing,” “It’s Gonna Get Better,” “Working Everyday,” and I Believe in Us. 

Bynum penned “It’s Gonna Get Better” following the tragic death of his younger brother due to gun violence.  He went on to author a devotional by the same title and to found a non-profit called the IGGB Campaign, the mission of which is to “assist those who have been directly affected by gun violence, the family of the victim as well as all others directly or indirectly impacted by murderous acts.”

GMF extends heartfelt condolences to the Bynum family during this extraordinarily shocking and difficult time.

Libra Boyd, creator, producer, and host of the Gospel Music Fever Radio Show, will pay tribute to Bynum during the second half of the show’s one-hour broadcast this Monday, February 3, at 1 PM ET.  You can listen at kwaygospel.com.

Franklin, for King & Country score Grammys at 62nd annual awards show

Franklin

Congratulations to gospel and CCM’s winners at the 62nd Annual Grammy Awards, announced earlier this evening (January 26, 2020) during the Billboard Grammys Pre-Show in Los Angeles.  


Best Gospel Performance/Song 
“Love Theory” – Kirk Franklin
Written by Kirk Franklin

Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song
“God Only Knows” – for King & Country and Dolly Parton
Written by Josh Kerr, Jordan Reynolds, Joel Smallbone, Luke Smallbone, and Tedd Tjornhom

Best Gospel Album
Long Live Love– Kirk Franklin

Best Contemporary Christian Music Album
Burn the Ships – for King & Country

Best Roots Gospel Album
Testimony – Gloria Gaynor


Click here after the live televised show on CBS to view the winners in all categories.

Donald Lawrence Presents the Tri-City Singers heads list of nominees for 35th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards

 
CHICAGO, Jan. 21, 2020 /PRNewswire/ – Central City Productions today announced the Stellar Award nominees in 28 categories for the milestone 35th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards taping on Friday, March 27, 2020, at the Las Vegas Orleans Arena.
 
 
The Stellar Awards recognizes the year’s best performances in the genre, honors Gospel music icons, and acknowledges the accomplishments of individuals instrumental in advocating for the industry.  Gospel music’s most epic celebration is co-hosted for the first time by rising Gospel superstars and Stellar Award winners Koryn Hawthorne and Jonathan McReynolds.
 
Don Jackson, Founder of the Stellar Awards and Chairman of Central City Productions, Inc. commented, “I am elated to celebrate this landmark 35th year of the Stellar Gospel Music Awards. Our flagship show is now one of the longest-running nationally televised African American awards programs in history.  We are proud to honor Gospel music artists and industry professionals for their priceless contributions to Gospel music.  We look forward to another spectacular weekend of family-friendly entertainment in Las Vegas.”
 
In addition to celebrating the year’s best album releases, Jackson will bestow special honors upon Gospel greats who have elevated the genre.  This year’s James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award will honor none other than the iconic Clark Sisters – Karen Clark Sheard, Dorinda Clark Cole, Twinkie Clark, and Jacky Clark Chisholm – who hold a collective fifteen Stellar Awards, in addition to the Thomas Dorsey Most Notable Achievement Award (2007).  Additional special honorees will be named at a later date.
 
Donald Lawrence
Veteran Gospel collective Donald Lawrence Presents The Tri-City Singers leads the field of nominees this year with nine nominations.  The powerhouse choir and its leader earned recognition this year for its work on the album Goshen (RCA Inspiration) in the key categories of Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Choir of the Year, Producer of the Year, Contemporary Male Vocalist of the Year, Contemporary Album of the Year, Urban/Inspirational Single or Performance of the Year, and Contemporary Choir of the Year.
 
Tasha Cobbs Leonard
With eight nominations, Gospel icon and Stellar Awards host emeritus Kirk Franklin is being recognized by the voting body for excellence in the categories of Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, Album of the Year, Producer of the Year, Contemporary Male Vocalist of the Year, Contemporary Album of the Year, and Urban/Inspirational Single or Performance of the Year for his work on Long Live Love (Fo Yo Soul/RCA/RCA Inspiration).  Tasha Cobbs Leonard continues to bless audiences with her gift and is rewarded this year with eight nominations for her work on Heart. Passion. Pursuit. Live at Passion City Church (Motown Gospel), including Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Albertina Walker Female Vocalist of the Year, Album of the Year, Contemporary Female Vocalist of the Year, Contemporary Album of the Year, and Praise and Worship Album of the Year.  She is also nominated for Producer of the Year for her work on William Murphy’s Settle Here (RCA Inspiration) project. 
 
 
Receiving seven nominations this year, JJ Hairston continues the praise party with his project Miracle Worker (JamesTown Music/Entertainment One), recognized in the categories of Artist of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, Album of the Year, Choir of the Year, Contemporary Album of the Year, Contemporary Choir of the Year, and Praise and Worship Album of the Year.
 
Choirs continue to inspire Gospel audiences and raise the roof with songs of praise, and this year Bishop Paul S. Morton & The Full Gospel Ministry of Worship (A Month of Sundays; Tehillah/Integrity Music/Tyscot) and John P. Kee (I Made It Out; Entertainment One) receive six and five nominations respectively, going head-to-head in the categories of Choir of the Year, Traditional Choir of the Year, Traditional Male Vocalist of the Year, and Traditional Album of the Year. 
 
Pastor Mike Jr.
Representing traditional, contemporary and urban music genres on the Gospel spectrum, Kurt Carr & The Kurt Carr Singers, William Murphy, and Pastor Mike Jr. are blessed with four nominations each.  Carr’s recognition comes from his work on Bless
Somebody Else (RCA Inspiration), which earned nods for Duo/Chorus Group of the Year, Traditional Duo/Chorus Group of the Year, Traditional Male Vocalist of the Year, and Traditional Album of the Year. 

Murphy’s Settle Here (RCA Inspiration) generated praise in the categories of Male Vocalist of the Year, Producer of the Year, Contemporary Male Vocalist of the Year, and Praise and Worship Album of the Year.  Bringing hip hop flavor to the Gospel space, Pastor Mike Jr.’s debut album Live Free (Black Smoke Worldwide) received nominations for Song of the Year, New Artist of the Year, Urban/Inspirational Single or Performance of the Year, and Rap/Hip Hop Gospel Album of the Year.
 
Other artists earning multiple Stellar nominations include The Walls Group, Todd Dulaney, Maranda Curtis, Fresh Start Worship, Le’Andria Johnson, Jekalyn Carr, and Jerard & Jovaun.
 
See the complete list of nominees at www.thestellarawards.com/2020_nominees.
 
The Stellar Awards show taping will return to The Orleans Arena in Las Vegas on Friday, March 27, 2020.  The week’s activities begin with the Stellar Gospel Radio Awards & Showcase, held on Thursday, March 26, honoring top radio stations and announcers serving urban Gospel music audiences, followed by the 2020 Stellar Gospel Music Awards Pre-Show to showcase non-televised award winners.  Public tickets for each event go on sale Saturday, February 1 and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com.

Rev. Maceo Woods, pastor and organist, has died

Maceo Woods press release

Another of Chicago’s gospel greats has joined the ever-growing heavenly choir.  Rev. Maceo Woods passed away today.  Homegoing service details are on the photo.

Read more about Rev. Woods–organist, recording artist, and founder and pastor of Christian Tabernacle Church–from our friend Bob Marovich at the Journal of Gospel Music: RIP: Rev. Maceo Woods, Pastor, Organist, Founder of “Gospel Supreme” Musical.

Gospel Music Fever offers condolences and prayers to the Woods immediate and extended family and Christian Tabernacle Church during this emotional time.