I will admit that I was skeptical– if you remember last year’s Celebration Of Gospel, there were just a bunch of moments that left us wondering… “WHY?!”
But this year, for its 10th anniversary, BET seems to have taken time and done things well and with purpose. I honestly thought it was a GREAT show.
My quick comments about each song, in order:
Fred Hammond featuring Kelly Price and Shirley Caesar – “Awesome God”
I loved the album version of this song (and wondered if it should’ve been the single) for months now. For me, the addition of Kelly Price to the performance made this song a great opener.
Yolanda Adams – “Victory”
It’s a great song, and Yolanda always gives an incredible live performance, but I didn’t necessarily NEED it. Just seemed a bit random.
Anthony & Tarsha’ Hamilton – “Better Is One Day”
One of the best performances of the night for me. It was an awesome arrangement of a CCM favorite, it was heartfelt and simple. And Tarsha’ can SING! Geeeeeeez.
Bobby Jones & The Nashville Super Choir featuring Y’Anna Crawley – “The Lord Will Make A Way Somehow”
Dunno what was up with Dr. Jones’ costume in the beginning (it was creative, but the bubble wrap thing threw me for a loop), but by the time the singing started, I was all in. Y’Anna sounded & looked great, the Nashville Super Choir went hard, and it was a solid performance.
Kelly Price & Ledisi – “How Great Thou Art”
From what I hear, BET edited some of the best parts of this performance from the TV broadcast. No matter… even as an edited shadow of itself, the performance was one of the night’s best. These are two of the most gifted female vocalists in the music biz right now. Loved it.
BeBe & CeCe Winans – “Close To You”/”Grace”
I sent a tweet last night that, though I love them, BeBe & CeCe could’ve done a throwback tune for me and I would’ve been thrilled. From a business standpoint, I get it (and they still did a great job)… I’m just even more eager for that reunion tour!
City Of Refuge P.S.A.L.M.S. Choir – “Shout”
I’m not a huge fan of the choir, but they did a great cover of this classic Milton Brunson tune. Lots of energy and a clean look make them stand out. Nice job.
Shirley Caesar – “Celebration”
The First Lady of Gospel always delivers a solid performance. Performing her newest single, she remained consistent and demonstrated that traditional vocals will NEVER go out of style.
James Fortune & FIYA – “I Trust You”
A bit underwhelmed by the use of background vocal tracks instead of live bgv’s until the vamp, but the song is powerful and so was the performance. This group is solidifying itself as a mainstay in the gospel landscape.
Fred Hammond – “They That Wait”
Actually, I wasn’t as interested in this song without John P. Kee being there. Makes me wonder if, in the end, it wasn’t the collabo that made the song so popular. I didn’t necessarily need to see this performance, especially given that he did the opener…
Fantasia & Diane Barrino – “He’s Done Enough”
From the moment she hit the stage, Fantasia’s shoes were off and she was jumpin’. It’s how she does gospel and I LOVE it. I also loved seeing her mama lookin’ like an artist herself… they performed together at the 2009 Chicago GospelFest and on Bobby Jones last season– I could get used to this!
Rance Allen Group – “Something About The Name Jesus”
Watching Rance Allen perform is always an adventure– you never know where the riffs & squalls are gonna come from, but you know they’re coming! It was great to hear him sing this classic tune, but I’m beginning to see less of a need for the “Group.”
Tye Tribbett & G.A. – “So Amazing”
It’s been said that this is the last we’ll see of G.A., as Tye is reportedly disbanding the group (per in-the-know journalist Jawn Murray, who attended a “farewell concert” on New Year’s Eve). If so, this was a nice performance to end their run. The song is good, the energy was what we’ve come to expect… cool deal.
Donnie McClurkin – “We Fall Down”
Donnie continues to demonstrate why there is no substitute for a good song and a solid vocal performance. No frills or gimmicks– just a 10-year-old tune and a vocalist who never really misses. Excellent.
Marvin Sapp – “The Best In Me”
This song was a hit from the moment he sang the first note at his live recording. And you all have been listening to it here for a while now, and lovin’ it. Another dynamic performance from an incredibly gifted singer. Chalk up another one for Marvin Sapp.
Donald Lawrence – “Back II Eden”/”The Best Is Yet To Come”
An awesome finale performance, with the incredible Floyd Wilkinson on the vamp, from the man with the Midas touch. The only thing missing for me was Donald’s group of singers, but I’m just spoiled.
All in all, this show was really great. The tribute to Steve Harvey was heartfelt and touching. And I’ll say this– if some of the greatest ministers of music in our industry come together annually, and interact with non-believers, we’re SUPPOSED to see a change in people. What that says for other annual televised gospel programs, I’m not sure… but it’s encouraging to see what God’s been doing in Steve’s life through Celebration Of Gospel.
Now… WHAT DID YOU THINK OF THE SHOW?!
I like Yolanda Adams but that performance slot should've really gone to an artist with current material. Overall, the show turned out better than I expected. However, there was too many secular artists and many other fleshly moments. Not to mention so much SCREAMING that ensued on a couple performances.
I must say this year's BET Gospel celebration touched my heart as if I was there in person. I enjoyed every performance, especially Fantasia and her mother, and Marvin Sapp. The sprit of God was all over that place ! The dedication to Steve Harvey for 10 years of service, was very touching also. You can see the change and the humbleness in face, in his eyes, and in just his presence period. To see a man not be afraid to shed tears, and be thankful for what God has done for him, and continuing to do in his life, just makes my soul happy.
I really enjoyed watching this year's show!!! Even Dr Bobby Jones and his "bubble wrap ministry"...lolol Anthony and Tarsha's performance was one of the best to me as well...I loved that arrangement...and I hadnt heard Shirley Caesar sing "Celebration" in years!!! She did great as always!
So it seems that everything I liked about the show, no one else did. Here's what I liked (not in any order): 1) City Of Refuge P.S.A.L.M.S. Choir - “Shout”. I liked the throwback song. They sounded good. They looked good. They are from Cali so there's going to be a "performance" thing happening. Glad to see a 21st century choir who can do vintage and new stuff. 2) Fantasia and Mom Barrino Barber: I LOVE me some 'Tasia because she's SO AUTHENTIC. I'm waiting on that gospel CD! 3) Rance Allen because he's Rance Allen and didn't need any special effects, etc. to deliver. 4) Marvin Sapp. Like the new song and he just stood up there and sang. No pomp and circumstance. Everyone else either OVERsang (Kelly/Ledisi (love 'em both but way too much), UNDERsang (Shirley Caesar--was there something wrong with her voice?), shortchanged (James Fortune, Fred's "They That Wait), or just phoned it in (BeBe/CeCe, Yolanda: they could have sang a throwback jam and I would have been better satisfied). Couldn't quite figure out the Hamiltons and did they invite Donald Lawrence at the last minute because he did not seem to be as prepared. Like the song, though.
Part 2 real quick: Steve Harvey tribute was very nice and I hope he was genuine in his reaction. Sometimes I'm not sure about the "saintly" secular partnerships.... But, I suppose, anybody can celebrate gospel. No one should be prevented from doing that. But at the same time, we shouldn't coddle or pacify carnality. At the end of it all, he who winneth souls is wise! :-)
This was a great show to me. Absolutely loved the Kelly Price and Ledisi performance and Fantasia and Momma! Was a little disappointed in Yolanda's performance. Just didn't fit to me but I still love her. Loved Anthony and Tarsha Hamilton sangin' for the Lord and working that marriage ministry! Lol! BeBe and CeCe could have given us a nice throwback. I love me some Fred Hammond but they didn't need him on there twice. Enjoyed City of Refuge choir. I started crying and praising the Lord during the Steve Harvey tribute with Donnie McClurkin and Marvin Sapp! (God is still changing hearts and minds, including Steve's. Love it!) Rance Allen was just wonderful! Enjoyed Donald Lawrence as always. I'm saddened to hear that may have been G.A.'s last performance but I'm lifting them and Tye Tribett up in prayer. Ok..... sooooo I thought Y'Anna Crawley's dress was horrible! Sorry but I just wasn't feeling it at all. Not even a little bit. And I'll throw Dr. Bobby Jones in there too with that bubble wrap! Lol! I understand what he was trying to do but I couldn't get with it.
EJ, I'm pretty much on the same page as you. The opening worked for me, but I think it could've been bigger. Maybe an anthem or something. Kelly and Shirley added some interesting diversity of sound, but for me, it was just okay. I was excited to see Yolanda on the show until the music started. It was a random song to choose and without the background vocals from the original recording, it just felt very out of place. Definitely could have done without it, but I do love some Yolanda. I was curious to see the Hamilton's performance. I wasn't sure where it was going at first as it seemed a little uncomfortable for them, but they got into it, and I really enjoyed. *Side note: I suspected that BET had editing some praise and worship and shouting out after watching this performance... Yo, Bobby's outfit definitely threw me for a loop. I had to remind myself to listen to the words coming out of his mouth because the outfit was drowning him out. I get the point now, but man, that was interesting. I enjoyed Y'Anna's performance but the outfit was distracting from me. Overall a good collab though. Kelly and Ledisi worked well together. I LOVE the song and can't help buy honor God no matter who sings it or how they sing it. I will say that they sung the mess out of the song though. I LOVE LOVE LOVE CeCe (and BeBe's cool too lol). I'm glad that they did a new song that had a mellow, reflective feel to it. I think it would have been nicer to do a medley with something old school. But I'm just glad to hear them sing. City of Refuge is cool. I remember them vividly from How Sweet the Sound this year. I like their sound and energy, but watching them is a lot for me. I'm not sure why, but I enjoyed hearing them multiple times in the show. Shirley was unremarkable this time. I love her, but the song didn't strike me as more than a nice song. James Fortune's song is just down right powerful. It is difficult to hear or sing that song and not feel the presence of The Lord. I have seen them perform this live several times, and the intensity of the motions that FIYA do seem more forced than i would like, but itdoes convey the message. I know the audience had a long worship session when that song was done. If John P. Kee wasn't in the house, the second Fred song could've been skipped. But I do like the song. Fantasia!! and Rance Allen!! nuf said... Tye's performance was wild, just like him. He brought a great show. I don't know how much the audiance was feeling it at times. I personally would've picked something a little milder for the occassion, but then again, I guess the celebration showcases all varieties of gospel. It would have been nice to have the whole group with a live performance, but some Tye is better than no Tye. :) Donni's song made me feel all kids of happy and Marvin made me proud! It ended with a nice, fitting song, and overall, I call it a great night!
I loved the show. I like me some Fred, but wasn't feeling his second performance. The opener was ok. Yolanda was cool. I loved Anthony's wife singing. She went in. James Fortune brought it all to the stage. I was feeling it. I loved the BeBe & CeCe performance as well. The end is what took the cake and what can I say....Fantasia is amazing. God is truly working in here. I thought the show was very well put together. At the end of the day it was a different selection of songs and artists but we all praised & worshipped the same mighty God. Amen....
Kelly Price and Ledisi, simply awesome. They did a live performance of How Great Thou Art. Some of the praise was edited out. Can we have of the rest? SOLID. You rocked the vamp, I was expecting How Great Is Our God but that worked out better. Fantasia and Mother Diane, outstanding. Mother sang for blood. i was wishing Beverly Crawford was there to sneak a lil in but they did it. Next time Fantasia keep the shoes on until you get passed your first verse. Love ya, great performance. James Fortune and FIYA was overly edited, they had to go in after singing that song. Love it. Shocker of the night: Marvin Sapp singing his new anthem. It was very appropriate and I was just shocked I liked it at all. He sang very well, did I get caught up, perhaps yes. But this song worked better here than what I heard on the pundit player. Not sure why but live is so much better. 2nd shocker: The opening was great with Awesome song with Fred hammond, Shirley Caesar and Kelly Price. Not a big fan of Fred outside of his greatest cd ever, Purpose By Design. This song was just good. Why? Shirley Caesar singing that song? YoYo singing that number (Love you oh the more as it was great) ? Bobby Jones outfit and Y'Anna Crawley Jetson's preview costume (lip movement beautiful)? Jessica Reedy, why didn't somebody hand her a mic?
The show was great!! The show got 2.6 Million Total Viewers last night. http://tvbythenumbers.com/2010/01/11/bets-celebration-of-gospel-celebrates-10th-anniversary-with-best-nielsen-ratings-ever/38452
EJ I could tell that BET edited Kelly price and Ledisi performance. Does anybody remember when BET would air an extended encore of the show? They did that about three or four years ago. I hope they do that and show all of the stuff they edited.
I was pleasently surprised this year. I thought it was one of the better gospel shows I've seen a looong while. I thought the kelly and ledsi would be an odd pairing, because both are high soprano, but it worked out to be an amazing combo. I also enjoyed the tribute. That song by Marvin gets me everytime. Rance Allen did his thing, and it was good to see CeCe sangin again. I must say that it was disappointing to see the lack of NEW artists and innovators, because it speaks volumes of where the industry is at as of now, but at the end I still felt like it was a night of pure gospel at its best.
Really enjoyed Kelly & Ledisi (OMG) Marvin Sapp and Donnie (all we needed was the alter call)!! Fantasia and mom was the icing on the cake. Fred is always a favorite and glad to hear Anthony Hamilton's wife. Instead of Victory would have loved to have heard In the midst of it all by Yolanda. Great Night overall!!
EJ..I totally agree with you, re Donnie..he is just excellent.No gimmick pure talent.The tribute to Steve was the highlight of the evening and what a tribute it was.Yolanda needs to dress appropriately ,and get out of the teenage division.Over all the performances were good.
Pleasantly surprised! Probably the best since the second or third one (it had TD Jakes & choir, Hawkins Family Reunion, etc.) - in my opinion... LOVED: Fred's first performance, Rance, Donnie & Marvin - i don't care for Steve Harvey's brand, but i was definitel moved by him being moved LIKED: Yolanda, the Hamilton's, Shirley Ceasar and Bobby Jones (he ALWAYS entertains) - but NOT Y'Anna AKA Lady Judy Jetson Gaga SIDE-EYED: BeBe & CeCe (that song bores me, but i LOVE the rest of the album), City of Refuge, Fortune & FIYA (i'm just tired of the song, that's all) i did have to pray for forgiveness due to some of my comments on twitter...some of y'all were on there too.
I thought the Celebration of gospel was pretty good. The only performances that I realy enjoyed was from Donnie McClurkin,Marvin Sapp,and Donald Lawrence, everything else seemed so random. I wish I could choose the lineup for the celebration of gospel because it would definetly be one to remember,however, all in all I give all the performers their props for holdin it down. Oh yeah I wish Y'anna could have maybe did her own song from her soon to be released album.
Marvin Sapp...enough said..Loved that song before..loved it even more after..why is it not on itunes?! and why didn't they just let him sing the whole song for 30 mins?! it was true praise and worship! Fantasia and Mama..great..but it was more like Diane featuring Fanny lol Kelly and Ledisi..loved it though it was a little "extra" Anthony and Tarsha started off slow but got into it at the end Y'anna's space suit distracted me lol Yolanda is trying to sell those books I guess lol I would've preferred Coko in her place, or even those two doing a duet of "Open My Heart" I wish Kim Burrell was there sigh
The COG was great. I enjoyed Fred, Marvin, Donald(the suit?) and Fantasia. Since the gospel artists lack the exposure, I really hate the appearance Y'anna was given, thank God she can sang....LOL. Also, the choir that sung background was great.
Memo to Y'anna Crowley--Get yourself a stylist. Your get up looks like something came out of Holland--and the outfit would have been complete if they put a Dutch Girl hat on you.
Rance was my moment of the night!!!! Not the group but just Rance. Yeah Bee Bee & Cee Cee (sorry) Fred w/o John Drop it john or drive it jon? It was agh so so ok. Yanna i thought she was about to fly away with those wings lol. Bobby Jones with the bobble wrap I thought it was a wig a firts and had to hit replay on the dvr. Tasia oversang as usual instead of just being herself and use what she was bleseed with and allow God to do it instead of her trying to sell it. OK now don;t get me wrong but i'm tired of seeing steve harvey cry. His wife was like boy stop playin..... I loved the ending with D-Lawrence but I was also glad we didn't see the same o same o people from the last 9 years like Kirk franklin and tye tribbett, amokie norful wait tye was there.. most of the people. Theres alot of up an coming new artist I would love to see on COG and they can mix it up with some old heads too but giv the little guys a break too.
PS not sure if it was just part of S. harveys jokes or not but when I stubb my toe or anything else he used i just say ouch! Jesus may not be the 1st thing that comes out of my mouth but it's no cuss words either. Not trippin either just though i'd put that out there
@all-- I'm lovin' your feedback! Let's try to keep in mind the house rules and keep it friendly... some of these comments about Y'Anna's outfit are moving away from constructive criticism and lighthearted joking to a lil' more intense. Cool? ;-)
I thought I would try and give my thoughts. I support gospel music heavily, and I love many of the artists that showed up. I just wish some of the performances were more up to par than they were. I also believe that we as a gospel music industry could step up our game, with everything from rehearsals to wardrobe selection. I mean Steve Harvey seemed to be the most prepared for this whole show. Which is kinda bad. Wardrobe choices were poor in this thing I believe, more info below. How come in secular shows, maybe more like the grammys or whatever, you can get a bunch of folk that win in terms of their stylist's ability to dress them? There were a bunch of flops here. I would've been very glad to see Deitrick Haddon on instead of some people on more than once (did his album come out in '09? Opening performance: I thought it was nice but K Price was a little bit higher on the note than I expected (too much). Her voice has changed a bit, she used to have a bit more soul than just scream. I didn't like Shirley Ceasar in this at all! I absolutely love this song though. And I'm a big fan of Fred's. I also didn't like K. Price's outfit, it wasn't flattering. I feel a big turn off when people of God wear items that are not flattering at all (when they showcase too much of their bodies). Yolanda Adams' performance: How old is that song?!? I mean come oooon! Her singers were flat to me. Or whatever the musical term is. Just plain off. The Hamiltons performance: Well, let's just say it didn't start off well for me and I was bored. It sorta got a little better, but not much for me. I was expecting the expectations I read to line up with the performance. Bobby Jones' performance: I didn't like the intro, his outfit was not doing anything for me. I really don't like his voice much. I didn't really like the song. It seems like most backup singers on the COG show were just off or had too much mic. To me Y'anna Crawley's outfit didn't suit her body type well. It seemed to do more to make her look "out of shape" than anything else. K Price & Ledisi's performance: It was actually pretty great for me. Ledisi's choice of wardrobe/hair was cool for her, fashion forward, which can be really good. I thought that the 2 women delivered a performance that sent chills! Not sure if the choia was sangin or it was a track but it sounded awesome! I cried. Bebe & Cece's performance: Let me just say, I disagree with most comments. That song 'Grace' just took me there! The joy in Cece's face was just phenomenal. Very glad they didn't just sing 'Close to You'. To me this song was classic enough. Her outfit made a couple of my family members wonder if she was pregnant. She didn't have to be revealing or anything, but I didn't like it. City of Refuge performance: I didn't like it much. To me after the 'Grace' song, I wanted a little bit more soul in it. You know something like some of the Hezekiah Walker songs. I'm nitpicking, I know. But I didn't really like the performance. And how come I remember in the choir our director politely told all us women to keep ourselves intact while singing to avoid drawing extra attention to ourselves? Hmph. Nuff said. Also, if you have a CD, why are you allowed on the HSTS competition? I love one of their other songs, they should've done that one instead. Pastor Shirley Ceasar's performance: I can't rightfully comment on it because I am not and never have been a fan of hers. But I do want to give her that honor of being on of gospel music's pioneers. James Fortune & FIYA's performance: Like so many others, I could've done without so much of the track. But the song is phenomenal. I would've appreciated a slower arrangement with true vocals. He preached to me though!!! I love it! Fred Hammond's 2nd Performance: I love the song, but agree someone else could've had the chance to sing here. But I did enjoy the performance. Wish Kierra had the chance to sing here instead. Um, and yeah. John P. Kee would've made it much better! I want an explanation when people don't show up! LOL. Fantasia and Mom Barrino's performance: ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT! I forgot that her mom was so pretty. I loved every bit of it, even the shoe removal. Great! I love a good Holy Ghost party! Rance Allen Group performance: I enjoyed it just like you all did. I'm not an old school fan, but it is just something about That Name, and this song! Tye Tribbett performance: I didn't really feel the 'So Amazing' part of it at all. It sucks with only 6 people including Tye. The energy was forced. I didn't like the keytar solo, and he looked stressed. But we can give him props for still performing. I guess. Steve Harvey Tribute: I thought it was beautiful. I believed the tears. I think Sherri did a pretty good job. Donnie doing 'We Fall Down' kinda made me sad at first, but it was fitting. I wish he would've done the song with KCS, but as a result of preaching to a man who needed to hear that message, I throw all of the desire for him and KCS to sing out! It ministered to me! Then with Marvin Sapp, OMG, it is another 'Never Would've Made It'. What a guy! I love that song, and I definitely cried out to God on it! Donald Lawrence's performance: Suit? Maybe if he just did the jacket. LOL. I was sad at first that the choir did not sing for Back to Eden, but um, never mind. The Best Is Yet To Come was not great with them singing it. They just aren't Donalds caliber of singers, but I do understand the reason they did it, because he was heavily involved with HSTS. I enjoyed his part in it though. Back to Eden was so powerful! Steve's thank you at the end, well I think he played it off jokingly but he did mean what he said. It's hard when you're such a funny person and you didn't come for all the emotional moments, but to make everybody laugh, and he seemed to be taken aback by it all. Very proper. Just wish he had more joke time, but I'll just listen to him on his morning show for that. Do I think the show was the bomb diggity? I don't know. I enjoy a good gospel celebration, and I do think they did a good job. Hindsight is always 20/20, and they always could've done better. That's why there's the next 10 years. Sorry its so long :( .
Uh oh EJ, sorry about that. I realized that I wasn't so constructive in a lot of my comments, I apologize. Feel free to take my comments out or even my whole comment. (and probably this one too) I mean no disrespect or offense to anyone on the COG show.
@mrswalton113: lol... nah, you're good. just quit being SO good. you trying to take my JOB?! great recap.
@EJ, I gotcha. I am more interested in hearing what you have to say! I just like to chime in is all, but when I chime in, I chime in! A lil bit opinionated, but still trying to keep it clean. I won't steal your thunder! I STILL hype you up on the BRC! :)
The show was just okay to me. I am so tired of Bobby Jones. Yes...it is great that he has the "longest running show on BET" and he may known as the "Ambassador of Gospel". But his vocals are terrible...thank GOD for a great choir behind him. Let's be real for a minute,how many times can he recycle(or remix,as he calls it)"Call him up" or "The Lord will make a way somehow". Just tired and pitiful. It was refreshing to see Anthony Hamilton and his wife perform. But it would've been great to see Kim Burrell or Melinda Watts for a change of pace. Maybe BET will get a clue next year!
im glad im not the only one to think YO-YO was totally out of place...WHY WAS SHE THERE AGAIN?...
Thang... Y'all going in for the blood. Compared to the Stellar Awards, I thought the show was great. It was the best thing BET put together in alonnnnnnnnngggggg time. Yolanda's performance was a little bit outa place.... But she still looks and sounds great... You can always expect that from her. BeBe & CeCe was amazing. I don't think the Black Gospel world is ready for a song like Grace, it leans more to CCM. I was so happy to get a glimpse of the past from CeCe. Nowadsys she doesn't sing like she once did. But she showed that she still can. I love Fred but I wasn't feeling it. I adore Kelly & Ledisi. They were amazing. Ledisi was screaming a bit but the lady is badddddddd. Fanny & mama Fanny got down. Now that's church where I come from. Bobby Jones needs to sit down somewhere. Yanni can def sing, she was good. Anthony & his wife was very sincere. The whole tribute to Steve Harvey was def something to remember. Pastor Shirley is a LEGEND nuff said. It was a good show. Now let's see how The Stellars go down. lol
YALL MUST BE SICK, THAT WAS A BUNCH OF MESS, AND HOMOSEXUALS, AND SELF DRIVEN GARBAGE. STOP MAKING IDOLS OUT OF THESE WORLDLY PEOPLE CUZ THEY SURE AINT LIVIN FOR CHRIST, THEY LIVIN FOR THEMSELVES
I TOTALLY agree with you No Compromisin! ! ! It appears that the saints have impulsive amnesia and choose not to remember that Fantasia may have been up there hoppin' around on the stage with no shoes on because her feet were hot and bothered from sleepin' with a married man with three children that she met at a T-Mobile store.
It's alot of harsh comments about Dr. Bobby Jones. It's unfortunate that we disrespect so many of our legends yet all will be mourning and praising them for their life when they arrive to their death.
The Celebration of Gospel was ok to me. If I were to grade the show, I would give it a "C". It was missing something - I just don't know! But I enjoyed the tribute to Steve Harvey. GOD is definitely working on HIM and I do give JESUS praise for how HE works on HIS children! Like with all of us who have issues, I pray that we as CHRISTIANS get set free, so that a dying world may realize that JESUS CHRIST is the way and come unto HIM! Lets continue to keep each other lifted up in prayer unto the LORD and watch and expect the LORD to deliver!
It was ok.
bobby jones nor any other of the people that were there are any kind of legends to me. the only "legend" for me is CHRIST. they obviously dont know him or the word because if they did then that debacle wouldnt have been on the air and none of them would have been a part of it. all these "gospel" stars are so busy being just that.. "stars" that they have elevated themselves to a prideful, sinful, sad, sorry state. and its a shame to say but most of them and chuuch folk alike fall under the category of people described in 2 thess 2:10-12. i dont see how ANYONE can call anything these sinful characters do ANNOINTED? are you serious?? these people have TALENT!! nothing else. stop tryna take what is PROFANE and make it HOLY!!
Anybody who watches the COG for "anointing" and "ministry is DELUSIONAL. That's not what the show is or ever could be about. Because clearly that's not the mission of the show and by the choices made for the show, the "deciders" (I know that's not a real word but I'm using anyway) do not CLAIM to be saved or Holy Spirit-filled to "decide" under divine compulsion ANYWAY. So I enjoy the show to hear some good gospel music and to see what's new and poppin' out there. With all that said, 'Tasia's authenticity still beats out most of those so-called "gospel" artists anyway. And clearly she has gospel roots that she pulls on to deliver. Now about her and her T-Mobile hook up, well I would say that she doesn't seem to come off unrepentant.... Um hmmm....
For the record, I am somewhat conflicted about buying gospel music by people who have sang R&B and have made some kind of "conversion". I do not know if some of these artists switch over for the money in a new market or if their look/sound is dried up for today's R&B/hip-hop market. I have Kelly Price's gospel CD. I also have Coko's first gospel CD. And if/when Tasia does a gospel CD, I will get that one, too. So I know that's inconsistent and I may end up throwing out those CDs one day. But is it any different than buying Tye's CD (A self-professed Christian who has admitted some "sin"? Or (insert name here gospel artist) who was caught doing (insert sin/iniquity/transgression here)? Let's be consistent but not hypocritical, please.
and PLEASE! lord PLEASE! stop acting like steve harvey is really giving his life to CHRIST!! he is not, if anything he is a poster child for a lukewarm christian. a TRIBUTE to steve harvey???? what about a tribute to CHRIST??? oh thats right, none of them know him at all. all steve harvey need to to is truly give his life to CHRIST, stop being in between and get connected with some TRUE saints who will aid him in becoming a disciple of CHRIST! not a disciple of MAN! stop lifting up sinners and hold the standard of CHRIST!
i dont care who listens to what. my only problem is people being so blinded and spiritually DUMB to where they call anyone who sings a "gospel" song good "annointed" thats a bunch of trash. all those homosexuals and sinners who were on the stage showing off there talent will be called "annointed" by so many crazy folk. most "gospel" music dont have anything to do with CHRIST anyway! the whole industry is compromised and filthy! which is why i do the music that the lord gives me for free, and pass it out! i will never take a deal to get into the devils industry
And calling "people being so blinded and spiritually DUMB" is NO WAY to get them to listen to your RANTS (right as they may be) about the truth of Christ. Right idea, wrong approach. Don't let your passion blindside folk.
it may be the wrong approach for you, or some other people, but you dont have to approach everyone the same way! the truth is the truth! everything i say is in love, people may not like it but ima keep it real
The best performance to me was Kelly Price and Ledisi. OMG! That Ledisi is a powerhouse! Loved it. This was the best ever of Celebration of Gospel.
Ok, NO COMPROMISIN, but your approach has (spiritual) MURDER written all over it and it is NOWHERE NEAR CUTE OR HOLY. In fact, I do think it has been a good spiritual thing for Steve to be affiliated with the show (since professing Christ was not a contractual obligation). I'm sure it has gotten him closer to Christ in some way. The idolatry of the tribute was a bit much and as I said upthread, coddling carnality is can mislead the weak (and some of the very elect).
LOL, I HEAR YA
No Compromisin, I'm sorry but I don't sense the love in your words at all...and never have. I wish I did. You do know there are no levels of sin, right? Your imperfections make you just as imperfect as a homosexual. All sin is an abomination to God. No sin will enter heaven...not even yours or mine. You must not sin at all. You must be perfect. I think I could respect your words more if I knew for a fact that you were perfectly sinless and completely qualified to serve God in any and all capacities. But without that knowledge, you just seem (could be wrong) like a mean-spirited hypocrite that gets their jollys off by pointing out everyones flaws and faults. I hope I'm wrong. Cause that would just be sad...
OMG. @NO COMPROMISIN-- you're ridiculous. You bash and hate the gospel industry so much, yet you watched the program. You come to this blog regularly to see what's going on in the industry. You comment and participate in discussions here. I've never seen someone hate something so much and be such a groupie. Despite your yammering, I know that you have no real interest in seeing the industry flounder. Then, you'd have to find a way to actually be productive and edify the Body Of Christ instead of launching juvenile tantrums on this site. Grow up and get a grip, dude. You're embarrassing yourself.
IT WONT FLOUNDER! NOT INTO ANYTHING CHRISTLIKE!! ONLY MORE PERVERSE, PRIDEFUL, GREEDY, AND IDOLATROUS!! THE ONLY REASON I COME ON THIS SITE (WHICH IS GARBAGE) IS TO TELL THE TRUTH ABOUT THE FOOLISHNESS YOU POST ON HERE! AND @V4C. AS LONG AS IM NOT JUDGING IN HYPOCRISY THEN I HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY TO JUDGE THOSE WHO CALL THEMSELVES SAINTS!! DO YOU READ THE BIBLE???? MAYBE YOU SHOULD
...and some of us wonder why it's hard to get folks to come to AND stay in the church. *sigh*...
OH YEAH @ EJ- THIS INDUSTRY IS NOT PART OF THE BODY OF CHRIST!! BUT BECAUSE THEY SAY THEY ARE, THEY ARE JUDGED ACCORDINGLY. THE BODY OF CHRIST IS THE TRUE BELIEVERS OF CHRIST, WHO FOLLOW HIS WORD AND DESIRE AND STRIVE TO BE MORE LIKE CHRIST EVERYDAY! AND YOU SIR ARE NO BETTER, YOU FACILITATE THIS MADDNESS AND RAISE IT UP LIKE ITS A GOOD THING. YOU REALLY NEED A REALITY CHECK AND YOU NEED TO GET A GRIP.
@EAZY- I GUESS YOU ARE REFERRING TO THE BUILDING THAT PEOPLE CALL CHURCH? THATS A WHOLE SEPERATE ISSUE MY FRIEND. I DONT ENCOURAGE ANYONE TO GO TO ONE OF THOSE. I ENCOURAGE FOLK TO ACCEPT CHRIST AND GET INTO THE WORD. THE BODY OF CHRIST IS THE CHURCH. NOT THESE DECEPTIVE BUILDINGS
@NO COMPROMISIN-- Okay, okay... simmer down. My site isn't garbage and you know it. But no offense taken. LOL... And it's clear from your comment that you have NO CLUE what the word "flounder" means. You could've just looked it up before you responded. In any case, like I said, you're just embarrassing yourself now. There, there... you'll be okay.
Why would you throw out the CD's that you spent hard earned money on? Did you not enjoy the music? And -- you're going to buy Fantasia's CD if she puts one out? I'm not understanding. If you like the music, you like the music... #kanyeshrug.
AHH WHOOP DE DOO, I MIS USED A WORD, IT MAKES NOTHING I SAID ANY LESS OF THE TRUTH. AND THIS SITE IS GARBAGE! BECAUSE IT PROMOTES NOTHING BUT GARBAGE
@NO COMPROMISIN-- Thanks, but nope... I've said all I needed to say. We do have some lovely parting gifts for you, though.
Hi, Lou.... I said I was conflicted about it.... And I'll throw out a CD in a minute, esp. if it's one I'm not supposed to have, e.g., Janet Jackson's Velvet Rope! LOL! Did I just date myself? LOL! But seriously, I think it does matter the "vessel" from which the music emerges. If the "vessel" is unclean (read: unrepentant, no sense of a sacred approach to the gospel/music), then it shouldn't be in my collection. Now of the CDs I listed, I do believe that they have some sense of respect, for lack of a better word, for the gospel of Jesus Christ. I think they have an understanding of what happens if one disrespects or disgraces the Holy Gospel. Not saying they are perfect people, because no one is, but at least they know they cannot play around with the Lord's stuff.
@Tam tam-- are you CRAZY?! You threw out Velvet Rope?! That was a good album! Now, we're both dating ourselves. LOL
@ No Compromisin--how do you know that people in the gospel industry are not in the body of christ? AS LONG AS IM NOT JUDGING IN HYPOCRISY THEN I HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY TO JUDGE THOSE WHO CALL THEMSELVES SAINTS!! DO YOU READ THE BIBLE???? MAYBE YOU SHOULD My question is do you read the bible and how do you interpret it? Matthew 7:1-5--it starts out by saying "Judge not, that you be not judged." etc...That says DON'T judge...where does it say its okay for you to judge those who call themselves saints--i'm just curious where in the bible it says this?
No Compromisin, I read my Bible. And in it, I read that Christians are known by their LOVE. And I've lived long enough to know that the ones who kick and scream the most are usually UNGODLY HEATHENS...in secret. I have no way of knowing that you are being honest. So you still seem (hope I'm wrong) like a mean-spirited...you read it the first time, lol. Judging isn't wrong but it comes with a high price. I hope you can afford it...it's a long fall off that high horse to humility. You're approach to 'tellin it like it is' 'in love' is questionable...to say the least. Again, sin is sin. Know that your sins are an abomination to God as well. As are mine and everyone elses.
LOLLLL!!!!! @ EJ! I'm sure I've got a song or two from that album in my ITunes list! BTW, I've not posted on a gospel website in a LONG TIME but I like what you've got going here. I didn't expect to come out of the gate with all the extras, though! Good going and keep up the great work! :-)
@Tam tam-- Awww, thanks! I'm always glad to see people getting a good discussion going. There's room for a BUNCH of varying opinions 'round these parts. Glad to have ya and keep it comin'!
@sb- it says judge not lest ye be judge, FOR IN THE MANNER THAT YOU JUDGE IT WILL BE MEASURED TO YOU the scripture in matt warns us not to judge in hypocrisy. 1 corinthians 5:12-13 is the scripture that tells us to judge those who are within the church. 1 corinthians 6:1-3 1 peter 4:17-18 read it and apply it
well, i guess i'll date myself right along with y'all because the "Velvet Rope" happens to be one of my top fave NON-gospel albums of all times! it got me through a rough time - before I was saved for real, of course. let's stop all this talk before we get into trouble...
I know I'm changing the direction of the discussion back a bit, just forgive me later. *I'm still trying to hit Rance Allen's note in "Something About the Name Jesus". Right at the moment when he climbs, it is just pure bliss. That is how you praise the Lord. SERIOUSLY!
I just wanna say that a particular person's comments have provided me and my sister and mother with some great laughs this evenin. I mean if you're so against it, why watch?! There are very few programs that are dedicated solely to music that uplifts and magnifies the name of Christ Jesus, and that believers can identify with. So if you are a believer, why all the hatin? I thought the show was the best it's ever been. Love the site EJ, I've been on it everyday since I discovered it.
No Compomising, you remind me of a web site who trashes christian music which talks about the same exact thing and condemns them to hell. First of all, the gospel industry is part of the body of Christ and they are our missionaries, if you know what I mean. They go beyond the four walls of the church, which all of us instead of typing words on a computer screen should go out of. And for the Steve Harvey comments, he's a new babe in Christ and he's still learning about this Christian gig. I pray for him hopefully to go under some bibically based teaching, but I also pray for him, because none of us are perfect and we come short. Steve has a lot to learn in his walk, which also all of us has as well.
No Compromising.... Man if you think the way your coming at this is Godly... Then you are definitely lost. If you think Fred Hammond is any different then R. Kelly your wrong. They will always have three things in common. Their Human, their owned by God, and their entertainers. Gospel music is a form of clean entertainment. However you want to put it its entertainment for enjoyment purposes and for the Glory of God. Them being Gospel artist doesn't take away the fact that their human. So if they fall it won't be any different from anything that you have done... Unless your so Holy that you've never sinned? Its that what your saying? Well in that case let me praise you now. @EJ Don't allow the devil to get any glory dude. You can definitely put him in his place though.
@ no compromisin-I read it and thank you for the scriptures-however, I don't agree with your approach, point blank. I don't know your heart or your walk with the Lord, nor would I be trying to get into all of that on here but as others have said--you come across as very rude and self-righteous. And you never addressed my first question--how is it that YOU know that these gospel artists aren't in the body of Christ? My last question for you is why come and try to bash this site? I'm guessing you go on mediatakeout, bossip and all those other sites to "preach" as well. EJ-keep up the good work!
TYPICAL LUKEWARM CHRISTIAN RESPONSES@MARSHAWN, GAYLE, AND NELLE. YOU ALL SHOULD SPEND A LOT MORE TIME IN THE WORD AND GET SOME UNDERSTANDING. @GAYLE-WHY ON EARTH WOULD YOU CALL THESE PEOPLE MISSIONARIES AND THEY NOT DOIN THE WORK OF ONE??? I HAVE COME TO REALIZE THAT "CHRISTIANS" JUST LIKE THOSE IN THE WORLD HAVE TO HAVE "STARS" TO LOOK UP TOO. WHY NOT LOOK TO JESUS? BECAUSE IF YOU WERE TRULY LIVING FOR CHRIST AND HAVE THE HOLY SPIRIT, YOU WOULD BE ABLE TO DISCERN THE FALSEHOODS AND THE FOOLISHNESS THAT IS THE "GOSPEL" INDUSTRY. @EJ- I GUES THAT LAST POST WAS REFERRING TO ME, I WONT EVEN RESPOND TO THAT FOOLISHNESS. I JUST PRAY THAT YOU ALL WILL BE GIVEN A DEEPER UNDERSTANDING AND THAT YOU GET INTO THE WORD AND BE LED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT SO YOU WILL REALIZE WHAT IS TRUE AND WHATS FALSE
you know them by their fruits sb, thats what the BIBLE says. im not self righteous at all, im nobody without CHRIST, but what grieves my heart is that so many people today are lukewarm and have no idea of what it takes to be holy and to come up to the standard by which we who are called are called to. when paul rebuked people was he not angry sometimes?? thats not my approach on a regular and to some its not the best,but for some it is exactly what is needed. thats love, correcting someone with the truth is love, letting someone wallow in error is not love. being afraid to tell it like it is is not love. people have this attitude today where since they are scared to be on the frontlines anyone who does is labled a "hater" or "holier than thou" or "self righteous" from jump street. people also dont realize that we are called to be PERFECT! people love to say"we are human" "nobody will be perfect" "all sin and fall short of the glory" but they dont realize that CHRIST is coming back for his body, the church. which will be a body of perfect people. 1 peter 1:5-11 is just one example of that. people have been indoctrinated with so much religion and tradition and opinions and falsehoods tht they have gotten away from the word! i will do this though.. i sincerely apologize if i offended anyone on this site, i especially apologize to EJ for callin you site garbage. for james 1:20 says "anger does not acheive the righteousness of GOD" so i do apologize. but i do mean every single word i said. GOD BLESS
This dude is so fried! LMBO@ Somebody calling him a groupie....if i think somethingis garbage..I DONT WATCH IT, REAL SIMPLE. This dude gota be lonly living ina one room shack with no friends..exept CATS..lmbo... boom to him!! hahaha
No Compormise, first of all, shouting in caps is really disrespectful. Secondly, I would refrain from personal attacks on this board or EJ will close this thread.
All i am going to say is this...When the name of JESUS WAS CALLED during the Rance Allen Group's Perfomance...Anthony Hamilton was CRYING...GOD IS WORTHY That name still speaks resonance!
I'm sorry but I have to agree with some of what NO COMPROMISIN said. The gospel artist are made to be idols and some of the artist are just not nice people. I was a reporter covering the show and a lot of them are not friendly. They have such attitudes. There were people there who wanted to just say hello but they were ignored. I witnessed this for myself. I was with a camera man and was trying to just get some B-roll. It's weird because some of the artist found out, I was working for a particular TV station and they came up to me with smiles trying to plug their latest material. Wow! it was my first time at an event like this and it really opened my eyes to a lot. I have come to the conclusion that people reject Christ whom we can't see because of the Christians we can see.
The best performances for me on the show were: Rance Allen - WHEW!!!! Kelly Price and Ledisi - YALL BETTER SANG!!! Anthony & Tarsha' Hamilton - TARSHA'S vocals were crazy WHO KNEW? SIIIING GIRL!!! Marvin Sapp - AMAZING!! The worst performers on the show for me were: Fantasia and her mom - GIRL PUT YO SHOES ON. I was looking for Frankie and Neffie to come out and join Fantasia.