Category: News

Prayers up for Tonya Lewis Taylor

The following was provided to GMF in a media release.  Please keep Tonya lifted in prayer for a speedy recovery.

(New York, NY – December 1, 2016) Gospel artist Tonya Lewis Taylor was rushed to the emergency room and has been in the hospital since Tuesday.  On Monday night, she started to complain of severe head pains. Tonya, who insists that she doesn’t get headaches, mentioned in a Facebook post that she felt like “her head was about to explode.”  Tonya has a family history of aneurysms and strokes, and she is currently undergoing tests to determine the source of the issue. Please keep her in your prayers!


Tonya Lewis Taylor’s single “I’m A Winner” from her latest project/EP I’ve Got To Win debuted in the top 30 on the Billboard Gospel Charts.  With the highly anticipated release of her national debut album Delayed But Not Denied in 2014 (on which she wrote and co-produced all of the songs), Tonya’s music has seen incredible momentum, blazing radio airwaves.

Lewis-Taylor is not only a singer/songwriter and producer but a teacher, award winning philanthropist and an author.  Wherever she goes, she engages, encourages, and empowers people to reach their full potential in their personal, entrepreneurial and spiritual lives.

Le’Andria Johnson to star in ‘Spare the Rod, Spoil the Child’ stage play at Lincoln Theatre

(Washington, DC)  Tall One Outreach Ministries presents “Spare the Rod, Spoil the
Child” gospel play at the Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U Street NW, Washington, DC, on November
5, 2016, at 7:30 PM.

The award-winning gospel stage play is written by Dr. Mildred
Summerville and directed by James A. House. In this gripping and engaging dramatic piece,
a woman simply known as “Grandma” serves as the pillar of her surroundings. Her son’s
family is in crisis, and those within her neighborhood are drowning in chronic troubles of
their own. Through it all, Grandma seeks God on behalf of those who are not spiritually
inclined enough to seek Him for themselves. Even those who resent her, such as her son’s
sometimes-rigid wife, Linda, ultimately end up on Grandma’s prayer list. And when the walls
of the lives of those around Grandma seem to come tumbling down, they know who to turn
to for guidance and sound counsel. It’s not always advice that they want to hear, but it is
consistently the precise word needed to steer them in the right direction.

Using spirit-filled music and memorable characters like James, the doting son, Linda, the
insensitive daughter-in-law, Tracy, the high-strung teenager, and Sister Cantaloupe,
Grandma’s feisty sister, “Spare the Rod, Spoil the Child” portrays issues within the community
such as family dysfunction, peer pressure, substance abuse, and other pertinent matters
that are too often inadequately addressed or considered taboo altogether.

Other characters in the cast bring even more drama to the script. In her God-given wisdom,
Grandma confronts Tracy’s suppressed anger and bitterness, convincing her to disclose facts
about a rape kept secret for years. Also, she fervently prays for her grandson, William, who
has a change of heart and averts a life of gang involvement.

Though compounding events take a toll on Grandma, the audience will rejoice in knowing
that this elderly woman’s life was prayer-centered, purpose-inspired and inevitably not at all
lived in vain. Extraordinary drama, corrupt karma, a supportive pastor, and a praying
grandma, all come together to make “Spare the Rod, Spoil the Child” a must-see theatrical
production. Infused with foot-stomping gospel music, this is soul-stirring entertainment that
will warm hearts, tickle funny bones, uplift the spirits, and search the souls of all those who
experience it.

Gracing the stage are Grammy Award winning artist Le’Andria Johnson, gospel singing
sensation Shawn McLemore, who is known for his hit single “I Believe,” featuring James
Fortune, Dr. Pauline Key, and Comedian Trina Jeffrie aka Sis. Cantaloupe. Viewers are
in for an unforgettable experience! The additional supporting cast members are Hope
Demps, Anthony A.D. Demmer, Bria Walker, Trenton Lumpkin, Elizabeth Henry,
Hasan Texeira, Dana Kristina-Joi Morgan, and Rhonda McLemore.

About the Writer/Producer
Dr. Mildred Summerville recently received an award from the
Heritage Registry of Who’s Who in the field of Spiritual Education
Entertainment for her award-winning play, “Spare the Rod, Spoil
the Child,” and she is an exclusive member of the Heritage Top
100. She was also a 2016 Down East Honoree of the Lifetime
Achievement Award. Dr. Summerville is an active member of Delta
Sigma Theta Sorority and Mt. Calvary Word of Faith Church in
Raleigh where she serves as an armor bearer for Pastor Shirley
Caesar. During her association and work with the renowned
gospel artist, Summerville realized she had a zeal and talent for
entertainment.

Source – Summerville Promotion and Production Co.

Winners of 47th Annual Dove Awards announced

Congratulations to all of the winners and honorees at the 47th Annual Dove Awards, which took place October 11, at Lipscomb University’s Allen Arena in Nashville.  Kirk Franklin (pictured accepting award) and Anthony Brown & group therAPy were among the gospel artists who carried trophies away from the ceremony.  

For a recap of the show and the complete list of winners, click here.  The Dove Awards will air on TBN this Sunday, October 16, at 10PM ET (7PM PT).

Photo by Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Dove Awards

Hezekiah Walker lands radio show on Rejoice Musical Soul Food Radio Network



(Virginia Beach, VA)  Rejoice! MSF (Musical Soul Food Radio Network) has signed gospel music legend Hezekiah Walker to an exclusive syndication and sales partnership. Rejoice! MSF will handle production, distribution, and syndication duties while Sun Broadcast Group will supply sales support for Walker’s new syndicated radio program. 

The working title for the show that will launch the first week in November is, “The Hezekiah Walker Show.” The Grammy, Stellar, and Dove Award winning recording artist has sold millions of records over the years and is known for classic songs such as “Every Praise” and his current No. 1 hit “Better.” Hezekiah Walker joins Rejoice! Musical Soul Food’s illustrious roster of gospel stars who also host syndicated radio shows such as Dorinda Clark Cole, Melvin Williams of the Williams Brothers, Dottie Peoples, and Coko Clemmons of the R&B group SWV. 

“The Hezekiah Walker Show” will target urban, urban adult contemporary, hip-hop, and gospel stations with a one-hour, weekday music-driven inspirational format to kick-off the mornings with a burst of inspiration. Additionally, Walker will also package a two-hour weekend program targeting multi-formats. 

“The addition of Hezekiah Walker to our lineup of powerful celebrity-driven shows positions us to increase our impact in the gospel music arena,” says Mike Chandler, Rejoice! MSF President. “We’ve been blessed to have some of the most recognizable names in the gospel industry as part of our talent pool.”


Hezekiah Walker says, “I am excited about teaming up with such an influential organization in the gospel music industry as the Rejoice Musical Soul Food Radio Network….so radio look out, here we come!”


SOURCE Bill Carpenter

Ami Rushes teams with Kurt Carr, seeks songwriters for 2017 album

(Los Angeles, CA)  Gospel recording artist Ami Rushes is gearing up for her sixth album and she wants to make you part of the process. As Rushes continues to uplift and inspire with her Sunday morning classics, praise and worship anthems, and foot-stomping, hand-clapping gospel music, she’s seeking songwriters to contribute music for her presently untitled 2017 release that will be produced by the award-winning Kurt Carr.
“I love ‘Standing Up For Jesus’ and spreading His message through gospel music,” says Rushes. “And I’m looking to work with some fresh, new songwriters on music that will encourage God’s people. Come go to church with me and participate in this recording process.”
All interested songwriters should submit original material only—complete songs with music that will professionally record. Submissions should be sent in the mp3 format. Deadline to submit music is Friday, December 16, 2016. For consideration, submit to: info@amirushes.com.
As a member of the West Angeles Church of God in Christ and a former singer for the late Rev. James Cleveland, Rushes has a deep appreciation for gospel music and prides herself on maintaining the traditions of the genre.

2016 'Wilson Idol' on tap for Sept. 24 with Shawn Mclemore as special guest judge

On September 24, 2016, “Wilson Idol” will provide an evening of entertainment at Fike High School, 500 Harrison Drive, Wilson, NC.  Doors open at 4 PM and the event is scheduled to begin promptly at 5 PM.  Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.

“Wilson Idol,” produced by The Summerville Promotion and Production Company along with Tall One Outreach Ministries, showcases the musical, dance, and spoken word talents of Wilson’s unsung acts.  This year, more than 20 hopefuls will vy for the title of “Wilson Idol.”  Special guest and judge is recording artist Shawn McLemore, whose credits include the Billboard charting CD, Wait on Him and more recently, “I Believe,” on which he is featured with James Fortune and Zacardi Cortez.

In addition to media coverage and a cash prize, the evening’s top performer will have an opportunity to perform for gospel’s queen Pastor Shirley Caesar and will be given a part in the stage production of the award-winning gospel play, “Spare the Rod, Spoil the Child,” a gospel drama written and produced by Dr. Mildred Summerville.  This year’s winner will also earn an opportunity to record with Dr. James Robertson.

Correlated with last year’s competition was the launch of the Tall One’s Champion Award program.  The Tall One’s Champion Award program honors individuals for their hard work, perseverance, and meritorious contributions to their communities. The chosen honorees have impacted their communities through various initiatives such as performing arts, community services, education, and outreach ministries.  This year, Tall One Outreach Ministries pays tribute to Bishop Aaron McNair, Dr. Brooksie Harrington, Prophet Calvin Suggs, Pastor Ricky Daughtridge, Evangelist Veronica Morgan, Marjie Slagle, and Roy Edmundson.

For ticket information and other inquiries, contact Dr. Mildred Summerville at 252-230-2689 or email wilsonidol2013@gmail.com.

– From a press release

Vickie Winans to perform concert, comedy in Roxboro, NC – August 13

This Saturday, August 13, Vickie Winans brings her “Bling, Sing, Laugh Til You Scream” concert to Roxboro, NC, where she will perform some of her well-known hits, serve up her brand of comedy, and showcase her line of self-made jewelry. 

Winans tells GMF’s Libra Boyd, “Baby, we’re gonna laugh, we might cry a little bit,
we’re gonna worship, we’re gonna dance, and when it’s all over, we’re
gonna get us a chicken sandwich and go to the crib!”  Read the full interview here: Vickie Winans: Blinging, Singing, Laughing, and Giving Today’s Music Talent a Chance.

The event will also feature a fashion show production by Mr. Carlyle, founder of Durham, NC Fashion Week; music by Indebted Praise; and the local talents of area youth.  Vendors will also be on-site. 

Proceeds from the concert will benefit Bridging the Gap.  According to its visionary, Kelly Rogers, Bridging the Gap’s purpose is to bring ministries together, unite generations “to work as one in the Kingdom,” and to “bring [people] from the ages of 16 to 35 who have strayed from the church back to God.” 
_____________

EVENT DETAILS
What:  Live in Concert: National Recording Artist Vickie Winans
When:  August 13, 2016 at 5 PM (doors open at 4 PM)
Cost:  Tickets – $20 (complimentary for pastors and their spouses)
Where:  Stories Creek Elementary School, 1333 Stories Creek School Road  Roxboro, NC  27574

For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Kelly Rogers at 919-426-2891.

47th Annual GMA Dove Award nominees announced

Photo Credit | GMA Website

Tasha Cobbs, Jonathan McReynolds, Kirk Franklin, and Anthony Brown & group therAPy
are among those whose nominations were announced today (August 10) for
the 47th Annual GMA Dove Awards.  The complete list is available here.

 
This year’s awards will take place October 11, at Lipscomb University’s Allen Arena in Nashville and will air October 16, exclusively on TBN. 

Congratulations to all nominees!

RCA Inspiration announces shift To Nashville, TN under Provident Music Group

(Nashville, TN)  RCA Inspiration
will operate under the umbrella of the Provident Music Group, a
division of Sony Music Entertainment, in a shift of operations for the New York-based award-winning inspirational music label.  Under this shift, RCA Inspiration will now conduct operations based out of Nashville, TN.

Terry Hemmings,
President and CEO of Provident Music Group, says: “Provident Music
Group is delighted to welcome RCA Inspiration, and their incredible
lineup of artists whose ever-evolving and diverse sounds have continued
to make such an impact on Gospel and inspirational music. They mark a
valuable addition to Provident Music Group’s ongoing growth and shared
vision in delivering wide-ranging and uplifting entertainment across the
world.”







RCA Inspiration includes a comprehensive
breadth of artists steering the sounds of Gospel, praise and worship,
contemporary inspiration, hip hop, and more today, which also includes
artists on Kirk Franklin’s
Fo Yo Soul Recordings label.  RCA Inspiration’s top-notch roster
encompass award-winning superstars, such as prolific influencers Israel Houghton, Fred Hammond, Marvin Sapp, and Donnie McClurkin.  It also continues developing hit-making newer artists, such as Travis Greene,
Le’Andria Johnson, and Dee-1.  In relocating under Provident Music
Group, RCA Inspiration joins the division’s outstanding scope of fueling
faith-based entertainment across multiple creative platforms from
Christian music and worship to music publishing and film. Provident
Music Group’s labels and entertainment entities encompass Christian and
worship artists such as Casting Crowns, Steven Curtis Chapman, Brandon Heath, Matt Maher, Third Day, as well as Provident Films (“War Room,” “Woodlawn“), Essential Music Publishing, among other services.         


ABOUT RCA INSPIRATION
RCA
Inspiration (formerly Verity Gospel Music Group), is the Gospel label
operating under Provident Music Group, a division of Sony Music
Entertainment. Voted Billboard’s #1 “Gospel Songs Label” for the past 15
years, RCA Inspiration is the home of mega-gospel artists Donnie McClurkin, Israel Houghton, Marvin Sapp, Le’Andria Johnson, Fred Hammond and many more.

SOURCE RCA Inspiration – August 2, 2016

Jovonta Patton debuts at #1 on Billboard Gospel Albums chart with no radio airplay

It’s a pretty remarkable accomplishment for Minneapolis singer/songwriter Jovonta Patton.  This week, his third album Finally Living debuted at the top of the Billboard Gospel Albums sales chart–with no radio airplay. 


Equally notable is Jovonta’s album sits on two other Billboard charts: the Billboard Christian & Gospel Albums sales chart at number 12 and the Billboard Independent Albums sales chart at number 21. 


In a press release, CEO Marquis Boone of MBE Enterprises said, “We count it an honor to be able to introduce the next generation of artists to the world.  Jovonta is a great talent.  We are excited that he hired our firm to assist him in introducing hi music to the world.  I think Jovonta has a long, wondrous career ahead of him.”  Boone also manages gospel sensations Casey J and Bri Babineaux.  


Jovonta got his start singing at the tender age of four in the choir at Berean Missionary Baptist Church.  He began writing songs at age six.  He cites Donald Lawrence, one of gospel’s prolific songwriters, as his musical hero and says that the 11 tracks on Finally Living are, like Lawrences’s compositions, grounded in the Scriptures.