Gospel Music

“Try Me Father”Rev. Willingham and His SwaneesFederal 125421966“Try Me Father” is an obvious variation on James Brown’s classic 1958 proto-soul “Try Me” (also on Federal Records). But turnaround is fair play, because The Godfather of Soul – who produced this recording – owed much of his early stage histrionics from [...]

“You Held On Even When I Let Go” Eddie Ruth BradfordFrom her forthcoming CD Saved by GraceJuana Records 2006www.malaco.comEddie Ruth Bradford, with her resonant, relaxed alto voice, sounds like a cross between Mahalia Jackson and Mavis Staples. Bradford’s latest single, “You Held On Even When I Let Go,” is as [...]

Jerry WarrenNever Let You GoNivla Records 2005Jerry Warren sounds like the lead singer in a traditional gospel quartet. His husky voice travels the vocal spectrum from Al Green’s pinched tenor to the rough growl of the finest, earthiest singing ministers. On Never Let You Go, however, Warren doesn’t front a [...]

Ami RushesCoveringAmi Rushes Ministries 2005www.amirushes.comAt the 2005 GMWA, where she performed on an artist showcase, Ami Rushes described the concept – and hence the title – of Covering as her “cover” versions of traditional, or traditional-influenced, gospel songs she loves. Indeed, Ami flexes her muscular, rock-star tough voice around a [...]

The Eric Carrington ProjectRelationshipDivine Line Records/Worldwide Music Group 2005www.ericcarrington.comSome gospel musicians are appreciated for the quality of their voice, such as Vickie Winans or Mahalia Jackson. Others, such as Billy Preston or Arizona Dranes, are lauded for their instrumental prowess. Still other musicians are best enjoyed for the overall musicality [...]

ExcelsiorThe PromiseCentral South Distribution 2005www.excelsiorsings.comSince I’m a little late in reviewing this project, let me get right to the point: The Promise is one of the best gospel choral ensemble CDs I’ve heard in some time, certainly since last year’s release of the Cosmpolitan Church of Prayer Warriors’ famed The [...]

"Mighty Long Way"Joe PaceFrom the CD: Mighty Long Way - The Vision Comes AliveIntegrity Gospel 2006In 1997, Joe Pace and the Colorado Mass Choir earned a Stellar Award for Best New Artist of the Year. Nearly ten years and stacks of award nominations, performances and recordings later, Pace and his [...]

From Effie Rolfe of the Chicago Defender (Jan. 13, 2006):Our prayers go to the legendary Delores Barrett Campbell of the world renowned Barrett Sisters who has been hospitalized for several weeks. The gospel music icon has been on bed rest since September and is about to enter rehab at Lincoln [...]

“Heavenly Father”Crescent City Gospel SingersArcadia 1091956 Available on New Orleans Gospel Quartets: 1947-1956 (504 Music) and on Quartet Collection, Volume 10 (Pewburner 572) From the opening bars of the song – a passionate supplication sung by lead singer Charles Taylor and bathed in studio echo – to the intensely recited [...]

From D.A. Johnson of Malaco Music Group:***Official Statement*** Blackberry Records, Inc. (which is solely owned & operated by DougWilliams, Melvin Williams & Henry Green a/k/a The Williams Brothers) hasmoved its entire operations from McComb, MS to Jackson, MS. They soldtheir office building in McComb and are currently in the process [...]