On Friday, January 13, 2012, BMI held its annual Trailblazers of Gospel Music awards luncheon at Nashville’s Rocketown. The invite-only industry gathering has become the hottest ticket in town.

This year, BMI saluted the music and ministry of Bishop Hezekiah Walker and Kirk Franklin.

A virtual who’s-who was in attendance… Kim Burrell, Israel Houghton, Fred Hammond, Isaac Carree, Trin-i-tee 5:7, Jason Nelson, Jonathan Nelson, Jessica Reedy, Virtue, Asaph Ward, Ricky Dillard, Yolanda Adams, Donnie McClurkin, BeBe Winans, DJ Rogers, David & Tamela Mann, Dayna Caddell, Brian Courtney Wilson, Dorinda Clark Cole, Marvin Sapp… my fingers are tired, but just think of EVERYONE in gospel music.

Check out these photos from the event!

This Christmas season, gospel artists are dropping Christmas singles left and right.

We’ve compiled a list of some of the must-have Christmas singles that you can download for just $.99. That makes for a happy holiday.

1. “Christmas Worship Medley” by Janice Gaines
This one is particularly dear to my heart, so it goes first. She’s my wife, but she’s also an incredible vocalist. This tune highlights her awesome range and heart for worship. I promise you’ll love it.

2. “Silent Night” by Crystal Aikin
Been missing her? Us too. She doesn’t disappoint on this tastefully acoustic-vibed classic holiday song. It’ll tide us over for now.

3. “God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen” by Le’Andria Johnson
The raspy, powerhouse voice of this Sunday Best winner is well supported by this jazzy arrangement. She owns it.

4. “Donnie’s Christmas Songs” by Donnie McClurkin
This is a medley of some of his favorite holiday tunes. It’s upbeat and soaring, and makes you feel like you’ve had a good ol’ Christmas in just over 3 minutes. 

5. “God Bless Us, Every One” by Crystal City, Inc.
This Nashville-based production team is comprised of brother duo Dwan Hill and Marcus Hill. They’ve released a FREE Christmas EP to demonstrate their gifts and to wish you a happy holiday. Great musicianship– get it!

6. “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” by Melinda Watts
We’ve been eager to hear more from this dynamic vocalist and she doesn’t disappoint. Sale proceeds will benefit at-risk girls through her nonprofit org, the Dream Girlz Gathering Foundation.

7. “Angels We Have Heard On High” by Committed
The a capella winners of last season’s The Sing-Off on NBC are precisely the type of artist you want Christmas music from. And this tracks proves why.

Which ones do you have?  Which ones are you grabbing?

JUST IN!!!

The votes have been tallied and it has just been announced that AMBER BULLOCK has won this season of Sunday Best on BET!

After a season of great vocal talent, the public has selected Amber Bullock over finalist Andrea Helms to win the title. Along with it, she has won a national recording contract with Music World Gospel, a cash prize and a brand new 2011 Ford Explorer.

Congrats, Amber!!!

In the penultimate episode of gospel music’s most popular TV competition, finalists Andrea Helms and Amber Bullock squared off for the title of Sunday Best.

Before they did, though, the show opened with James Fortune & FIYA singing their hit single “I Believe,” with Shawn McLemore and Zacardi Cortez. It was a rousing performance showcasing ranges, agility and skill, and the audience went straight to the cross on this one.

Kirk Franklin said the show would feature the finalists singing classic tunes from the incomparable Walter Hawkins. And so they began…

Andrea Helms – “Changed”
This is the best I’ve heard her all season– it was tasteful and controlled, backed by her signature passion. I agree with Donnie on this one– glad Andrea didn’t try to recreate a Tramaine Hawkins moment. I wanted a bit more vocal styling at the end (it got a bit wordy with ad libs that, while passionate, were a lot to follow at times), but it was a solid performance.

Amber Bullock – “Thank You”
At first, I heard the acoustic vibe and I thought “nooooo,” but when I heard the beat come in, I thought “yeaaaaah!” I do agree with the judges that she added a bit too much riffing and movement, and didn’t stay true to the simple complexity of the song, BUT the woman just flat out sang it.

It appears that the Walter Hawkins theme was just for a time, because they moved on to Richard Smallwood and Kurt Carr for round two… I’ll allow it.

Andrea Helms – “I Love The Lord”
I really wanted a fast song from her, but her voice seems to do better on ballads. I echo my season-long issue– passion and purity does not overshadow the need for precision on pitch, a controlled tone and the execution of the runs an artist attempts. Now, I DID enjoy her impromptu worship flow at the end– I think that’s what has sustained her in this competition– but from a technical standpoint, this wasn’t her best.

Amber Bullock – “For Every Mountain”
Kirk was right when he introduced her– “she’s gonna have to sing from the heart” if she wants to win. It began as pensive and trained as she’s been all season, but mid-way through it, the game was OVER. Amber lost herself in every note and word, and we saw a part of her that we haven’t seen all season– passion, conviction, connection with God, then us. I’ve never seen a finalist send the judges IN to wrap up your song.

Richard Smallwood followed with his latest single “Trust Me.” He consistently writes classic tunes– they just come out “classic.” It’s always great to see and hear from him.

Coulda sworn Kierra Sheard was gonna be on the show– they even did a teaser about it– but I guess not. *shrugs*

And that was it, folks!

Check my earlier post for all the details on how to vote for Amber or Andrea. You have until this Saturday at noon Eastern Time, and can vote up to 10 times per voting method.

I pick Amber. What about you???

This week’s episode of Sunday Best on BET was titled “Give Our Regards to Broadway,” and the finalists were expected to sing show tunes to prove, as host Kirk Franklin said, that “Broadway can be done God’s way.” A bit of a stretch, but I’m up for a creative show concept!

Up first, though, Mary Mary opened with “Sitting With Me” from their latest album, Something Big. The song was an instant favorite among gospel fans, so I think it was a good choice. Plus, they’ve performed “Walking,” “Something Big,” and “Never Wave My Flag” on various nationally televised spots up to this point, but we hadn’t seen them do this one. Vocally, there were a few issues– just hoarse, I think– but Mary Mary delivers a performance full of energy and passion, every time. Loved seein’ them.

Then, we were on to the contestants…

Amber Bullock – “Summertime”
This performance was straightforward and tasteful. It wasn’t overdone or out of control– she owned it and demonstrated skill and precision. I enjoy watching her, but I don’t know whether I feel engaged every time. She’s a really great vocalist, but I hope we get to see her just lose herself a bit before it’s all said and done.

Michael Pugh – “Climb Every Mountain”
THIS rocked. Michael completely stepped into the role and showed that he is a real balladeer. Like one of the judges noted, I really thought he was going to get too churchy and go left, but he was cool and poised on this one. He also really brought me into the moment. Great job.

Andrea Helms – “Memories”
This was Andrea’s week, huh? Her quick vibrato and sing-songy tone, for which some have criticized her, found the perfect home in this show tune series. I still didn’t really hear what the judges were hearing– they felt like she fumbled through it and recovered at the end. I didn’t so much hear the recovery, but it definitely got more passionate, which is Andrea’s strong suit.

Aaaaand, because there were only three finalists, we got to hear another round of songs– this time, finalists’ choice…

Amber Bullock - ”If It Had Not Been For The Lord On My Side”
It was okay for me, but it definitely made me miss Mama Sue a little. I agreed with Erica– I wanted to see a bit more “let loose” from her. Not vocally, spiritually. She was polished in a way that is all Amber, but again– I wonder how she ministers when she’s overcome with the emotion behind her words.

Michael Pugh - ”Endow Me”
Again, just so-so on this one. Not because of the vocals, but because it didn’t really go where I wanted it to. It may just have been a not-so-great song choice. He sounded great, though. I love the song, generally, but it wasn’t particularly memorable this time around.

Andrea Helms - ”Encourage Yourself”
Good song choice because of how well it progresses and builds– it gives any singer the chance to showcase the breadth of their ability. I also like that she switched up her ad libs from attempting to recreate what Sheri Jones-Moffett did on this tune, and she definitely brought the show back to “church.” Vocally, I’m still not “there”– I feel like earlier contestants were sent home for better performances– but again, her passion does stand out.

After the finalists had their say, it was time for another guest artist to take the stage.  How glad was I to see vocal mentor Kim Burrell perform “Open Up The Door” from her new project, The Love Album?! I enjoy the track on the album, so I was excited to see how she worked it live. It had a slightly different vibe– a bit less structured, so a bit harder to follow (especially if you’ve never heard it)– but by the end, she delivered with a range that still surprises me and an ear that doesn’t miss a note on any scale.

Afterwards, the judges’ decision was revealed and Michael Pugh was sent home. The title of this year’s Sunday Best will go to one of the two finalists– either Amber Bullock or Andrea Helms.

Do I think they made the right decision?  No, not really. I think that, for this competition, for this market and industry, Michael Pugh is ready and would have been voted the winner by the public (no slight against Amber). I will never deny Andrea’s passion and sincerity for this. And, generally, it means more to me than vocal tricks and stuff.

But in this competition, I still feel like a degree of polish and precision is necessary as a foundation. That can’t be overlooked because of the emotions we feel. For a recording artist, I need for the recorded work to draw me in, even when I’m distracted and cleaning my house. Or when I’m having a conversation in the other room, I need to say “wait… hold on” because I can’t help but have my attention snatched away by the music I stepped away from.

In this season, I have only felt THAT way about Amber Bullock, Michael Pugh, Sue Roseberry, Monica Smith and Isaiah Freeman.

Having said ALL of that, though, I still believe that this machine– Sunday Best– is built, in part, to give opportunities and platforms to people who might not have otherwise been heard in this arena, whether that’s an Elder Goldwire McClendon or an Andrea Helms. And in that regard, it’s up to the buying public to vote and be heard.

Looking forward to the final showdown!

I’ve got a little Donnie McClurkin swag to give away. Who wants it???

All you’ve got to do is spread the word about his upcoming Perfecting Music Conference AND the NY Call on August 25-27, 2011 for a chance to win the goods. Simple? Sure!

First, click here to read about the incredible action-packed weekend.

Then, follow these instructions:

1. Be on the lookout for GospelPundit.com’s daily Twitter and Facebook message that says:

Spread the word & WIN Donnie McClurkin Music! Perfecting Music Conference + NY Call in NYC, Aug. 25-27! http://bit.ly/oawn1E #GPgiveaway

2. RE-TWEET the message on Twitter and/or LIKE the message on Facebook when you see it.

3. I’ll randomly select 2 people to receive the Grand Prize Swag Bag and 2 people to receive the Runner-Up Swag!

Two Grand Prize winners will get:

1. Live in London DVD
2. The Essential Donnie McClurkin compilation CD
3. Psalms, Hymns & Spiritual Songs CD
4. We All Are One CD

The two runners-up will receive the now-classic Live in London DVD.

The giveaway begins today, Thursday, August 18, 2011, and ends on Friday, August 26th at 11:59pm ET.  Spread the word as much as you want on Twitter and Facebook– you’ll increase your chances of winning!

Let’s GOOOOOO!

Last night’s episode of Sunday Best, titled “Stairway to Heaven,” was said to feature songs about Heaven. By the end of the finalist’s performances, I realized that the only real “Heaven” connection is that, at some point, the song had to mention it in the lyrics. Not the strongest theme, in my opinion, but we got some nice tunes out of it.

We also got some much longer performances this week– virtually full songs– due to the fewer number of finalists. We were down to 5 and, by the end, we landed at 3.

Before the finalists gave it their best shot, the show opened with DeWayne Woods singing his hit single, “Let Go,” along with special guest Dave Hollister. I didn’t exactly get the connection to Heaven on this one, but it was good to see DeWayne on the show. Though “Let Go” is from DeWayne’s first major solo project (released in 2006… totally underrated… click here to listen and buy to it), it’s probably his best-known single to date, so I’m glad he got on-screen time to put a face to the song with which many are familiar.

After that performance, we heard from the finalists. It went a little something like this…

Andrea Helms – “The Heavens Are Telling”
I have no doubt that Andrea loves God– it is MORE than evident in her performance– but I’m just not as into her vocal performances yet. Her sincerity is what shines each week. She has been consistently serious about this thing as ministry, and I do believe that’s what the judges are feeling in that studio each week. I don’t know if that means she should win the competition, but it’s definitely admirable and refreshing.

Sue Roseberry – “Heaven”
It is not easy to remake a Karen Clark Sheard tune, especially introducing your own ad libs. Mama Sue did a good job, but the song got away from her in a few places. I think the judges didn’t want to really knock her for it, but this week’s performance was definitely not where she has been before. Still, I appreciate her gift and her style– it’s always nice to see someone who can confidently step onto stage and give you their all.

Michael Pugh - “Special Gift”
This was, hands down, my favorite performance from Michael Pugh all season. His tone was killer, his range dynamic, and his approach (and execution) was virtually without flaw. This tune was right in his wheelhouse– allowed him to start by shining with a polished tone, then finish with his signature growls and exhortations (which I feel were a bit more well-controlled last night than usual). Great great great job.

Monica Smith – “Heaven Help Us All”
Great song selection on this one. Monica’s greatest struggle to date has been her own confidence. She hasn’t owned the stage yet, though she definitely could have! The result was an enjoyable performance (despite a bit of an odd ending), but no “wow” factor. If only she knew how great her tone and style was… she might have moved across the stage differently, looked up at the audience a bit more, engaged us and declared that she was ready. I hope we get to hear more from her.

Amber Bullock – “A City Called Heaven”
Amber’s performance was CLEARLY the performance that stole the show.  This was a great jazzy arrangement fit for her jazzy voice and styling. It was impeccable– not a note out of place or trick that she didn’t pull off well. This was on another level. I agree with Pastor Donnie– she “styled” the tune. Great work.

After the finalists, six-man a cappella group Committed performed “Soon I Will Be Done.” These guys are gifted and, despite the natural inclination to compare them to Take 6, I feel like there’s a different audience in the wings for them. Though they won NBC’s The Sing-Off, I enjoy seeing them on sacred stages as well as secular ones. The sound mix was a bit uneven to me, which can be disastrous for an a capella group, but I loved the arrangement.  Their debut album hits stores on August 30th.

In the end, Mama Sue and Monica Smith were sent home, leaving the top three finalists– Amber Bullock, Michael Pugh and Andrea Helms. If I had to call it, I’d say that Amber and Michael should be in the final two, and that Amber’s gonna take the title, though I wouldn’t count out the heart-thumping reach of Andrea’s performances.

By now, you should be able to tell me who you WANT to win this thing– who’s your pick???

This week on BET’s Sunday Best, we were able to listen to the remaining 7 finalists, with 2 heading home.

Before that, though, Yolanda Adams and Donnie McClurkin opened the show with their hit duo, “The Prayer,” from Donnie’s 2003 album, Again. I don’t fully get the performance decision– they’ve each had two albums since then. It seemed like a shot at a TV moment, though, which I can’t be mad at. They still have incredible voices and they pulled off a solid performance.

I’m so glad that we finally got to see Kim Burrell actually BE the vocal mentor this episode. And it was a good show for it– the theme revolved around LOVE SONGS, and Kim really helped these artists operate outside their comfort zone, which I think was the point of the whole exercise.

Here’s how the finalists’ performances played out for me:

Michael Pugh – “You and I”
This is the type of song I’ve been waiting to hear from him– a perfect way to showcase his ability to do more than a churchy squall that slays. He has a nice tone for crooning.  Though he definitely didn’t seem as comfortable with this style of music, I was glad to hear him in this vein!

Timesha Sampson – “I Believe In You And Me”
Aww, man.  This kind of got away from Timesha, which I think might have been avoided if she stuck to the melody a bit more. Sucks to say it, and it may be unfair, but this was clearly too “gospel” for this week’s gospel show.

Monica Smith – “At Last”
She REALLY impressed me! Despite everyone comparing her to Shirley Caesar for the past several weeks, Monica seemed completely comfortable doing this jazzy, lounge-like song.  She gave a tasteful and authentic performance. This was spot on!

Andrea Helms – “Wind Beneath My Wings”
Again, I’m always left wondering if the judges’ and crowd’s reactions have more to do with her race than her gift. There wasn’t anything particular astounding about this vocal performance. It was a bit amateur this time around for me.

Amber Bullock- “Ribbon In The Sky”
Great tone, lady! Plus, pretty good choices on the “doo doo doo” scat-like ad libs. It was way too gospel for me by the time the vamp came along, though– I agree with Tina’s wish that Amber had taken a more “tender approach.” Still, she’s a frontrunner for a reason– she’s polished and professional.

Isaiah Freeman IV – “So Amazing”
This performance hurt my heart. I don’t even CONDONE many people remaking Luther Vandross, but from Isaiah’s first note, I was put at ease. His tone and approach was INCREDIBLE to me. Then, in a moment, he lost the words, his total confidence was shaken, and the rest of the performance fell apart. Isaiah is much better than that performance displayed and he knew it. Hurt me! Lol

Sue Roseberry – “Jesus Is Love”
UMM… kinda unfair, on the whole secular “love songs” show, that Mama Sue gets to do “Jesus Is Love,” but she sang it like she wrote it. Lol! I MEAN! Flawless finessing of a good ol’ groove. I loved it.

Before any finalist got sent packing, the one and only Jill Scott performed “Hear My Call.” She crafted her song– she didn’t just sing it. It was an absolutely captivating performance of a beautiful song.

In the end, Timesha Sampson and Isaiah Freeman IV were sent home. I was particularly disappointed about Isaiah– definitely my fave from this season so far. That’s alright my dude! I’m buying your album!

Anyway, just my two cents. What did YOU think of the show?

Pastor Donnie McClurkin is finalizing plans for what promises to be an incredible weekend at the end of this month, combining two of his passions– the New York Call and the Perfecting Music Conference– into three power-packed, empowering days (August 25-27, 2011).

Each year, for the past 8 years, thousands of people across the NY/Tri-State region have attended the New York Call, an outdoor family festival that seeks to break down cultural, racial and denominational barriers through continual fellowship.

This year, McClurkin is adding a regional Perfecting Music Conference, part of a series of conferences that he began in 2010, to the weekend.  With a focus on educating and equipping those called to a career in the music industry and music ministry, the Perfecting Music Conference offers a series of workshops and discussions across the nation, at an affordable cost.

Here’s a quick rundown of the weekend:

Thursday, August 25th – attend a free multi-cultural job/career fair, which will include career counseling, resume building, interviewing tips and training classes with opportunities for permanent and temp jobs!

Friday, August 26th – register to attend a day of workshops geared toward those interested in a career in the music industry and music ministry, taught by industry leaders like Joseph Burney (Verity A&R), Cheryl Marks (Verity marketing), Jeff Grant (Verity radio), Toya Beasley (KISS FM program director), Kerry Douglas (BlackSmoke Music) and more!  Workshop titles include Evangelism, Music/Arts Dept., Church Administration, Praise and Worship and Liturgical Dance; Radio Seminar, Marketing & Branding, Record Deals, Recording 101, and Developing a Label. The $40 Registration fee includes lunch and a special gift bag; $25 registration fee for workshops only and a $20 fee for youth.

Saturday, August 27th – attend the free outdoor festival at Eisenhower Park in Nassau County, where thousands will gather for the 8th Annual New York Call. From 11am – 3pm, a Health & Wellness Fair will take place, with free health screening opportunities as well as information on nutrition, private healthcare and insurance, substance abuse, diabetes, HIV/AIDS testing, vision and more!  Afterwards, from 3pm-8pm, the mainstage will feature multiple musical guests and speakers!

For locations and details about the NY Call, visit http://www.nycall.org.

To learn more about the Perfecting Music Conferences, visit http://www.perfectingmusic.com.

And check out this quick video about the weekend!

EJ recaps last night’s episode of Sunday Best on BET…

Last night, Sunday Best viewers were treated to a bevy of vocal tricks and acrobatics that had the makings of an incredible talent competition. Problem was, the mounting anxiety and nerves of several contestants made for some poorly-executed riffs and rather vacant stage presences.

If you recall from last week, 9 finalists were selected, with the 10th slot to be filled by the winner of a 3-contestant a cappella sing-off. Before the sing-off, however, William McDowell opened the show with his radio hit, “I Give Myself Away.”

His performance can be better classified as a worship experience, as was evident by the studio’s atmosphere– even the judges sang along with uplifted hands and tear-filled eyes. Throughout the beginning of the song, William struggled to even sing the lyrics, stepping away several times as he was overcome with emotion. For the at-home viewer, though, it was a bit difficult to join in. I just kind of decided it was a “had-to-be-there” moment, which is not really what you aim for on a national TV performance. Still, I’m glad he got the spot and on-air time– William McDowell’s been working that song for years now and he’s reaping the harvest. [Click here to check out William McDowell's album, As We Worship: Live, on Light Records.]

Sing-off time arrived and Kirk Franklin introduced the 3 contestants vying for the 10th spot. Each had to perform “Yes, Jesus Loves Me” a cappella. The problem with a sing-off among new artists or amateurs is that they realize they have to bring their ‘A’ game and they often translate that to “gotta riff and run.” That’s not ‘A’ game unless you’re a riffin’ and runnin’ wonder, and even then, less is always more.

Shanandolan Reynolds, who I was really rooting for, is better than what we saw and heard. I think her nerves got the best of her and the song was all over the place. Latrice Smith came with some jazzy riffs across practically every part of the chromatic scale, but things fell apart when they runs didn’t seem to just… end. For me, Timesha Sampson had it in the bag from her first note– not because of her tone or notes, but because of the lyric… she is the only one who didn’t start at the chorus. Her approach was most tasteful and she immediately distinguished her performance from the other two ladies.

And she got the 10th finalist slot. Immediately, Timesha was on the spot to perform her tune for the week. Here’s how each contestant fared…

Timesha Sampson – “This Is The Day”
I think this was a cool arrangement, but I agreed with Erica Campbell– the performance would have benefited from a slowed-down and controlled presentation, as some of Timesha’s riffs get away from her. She’s definitely got great potential, though, and I love that she’s unassuming with a bit of a powerhouse voice inside.

Amber Bullock – “How Great Is Our God”
If I never hear another gospel version of this CCM classic, it will be too soon.  I don’t like this song in any format aside from the original Chris Tomlin version. That said, Amber has got an undeniable and consistent gift, with great control and tone.  This performance was not her best, but she’s clearly a frontrunner in the competition.

Michael Pugh – “You Are God Alone”
I like him. I loved the song choice, as I haven’t heard anyone do it on Sunday Best before. Michael is definitely “a good gospel singer,” like Tina Campbell said in her critique– just solid church. I’ll be interested in seeing a more reserved performance in the coming weeks, though. I know he can drive a song with a good growl and exhortation, but I’d also love to see him perform something without the goal of slaying people in the Spirit.

Andrea Helms – “Yesterday”
It’s always risky to sing a Mary Mary song– despite their urban style and contemporary approach, Tina and Erica have some very churchy, powerhouse vocal ability. And this song ain’t an easy one to sing. This week felt a little “Showtime at the Apollo” to me– a person you wouldn’t expect to even be on the show gives a decent vocal, and the sheer diversity of the moment makes everyone do backflips. I’m not saying Andrea isn’t gifted– I’m just saying that it wasn’t “perfect,” as Pastor Donnie commented.

Isaiah Freeman IV – “All I Need”
I personally don’t want to hear anyone but Brian Courtney Wilson sing this song– it’s HIS! Lol My bias aside, though, I didn’t think the vocal was strong enough. Whereas the original demonstrates great crooning and tone, especially on the vamp, this cover didn’t really shine in those areas. I just think it wasn’t a great song choice this time.  Still, he’s one of my favorite contestants.

Sue Roseberry – “Jesus Can Work It Out”
Mama Sue brought it once again. She does EXACTLY what we want. I love that she changed up the ad libs to this classic tune. The judges’ response to her reminds me of last season’s Elder Goldwire McClendon– everyone loved his traditional, old-rugged-cross, ol’ landmark nature, but people didn’t select him as their winner.  It makes me wonder if the masses would want a Mama Sue album.

Monica Smith – “Pass Me Not”
While I definitely love the raw talent she exhibits, I’m always fearful that she’s going to blow out her voice! Be caaareful! Lol Kirk Franklin is right to liken her to Shirley Caesar– it’s that guttural, growling, traditional style and approach. Her zero-to-sixty approach is vaguely reminiscent of LeAndria Johnson, but she doesn’t have the same confidence level. I’d love to see her grow in that regard.

Michael Washington – “Falling In Love With Jesus”
This dude is smooth, with clear tone and precise agility. On this Jonathan Butler cover, I heard a bit of Jonathan, mixed with a few Howard Hewitt scats. I agree with the judges that the song kinda got away from him, but I think it was definitely his nerves. He’s a great singer, but it’s hard to figure out what his lane would be.

Felicia Russell – “Precious Jesus”
I don’t know when this song became such a sermonic solo, but I still love it as an ensemble tune like Thomas Whitfield wrote it. That said, I don’t think Felicia is really comfortable just letting it all go, and I want her to. Too poised, too reserved, even in the climax of the song. I agree with the judges– better than last week, but her audition ROCKED. I wanted to see it like that, again.

Carlington Roberts – “Oh How I Love Jesus”
Carlington is a nice guy, but this performance was a bit pitchy and behind the tempo the whole way through. I’m sure I’m not alone– after the modulation, things just got tense. His range, tone and confidence were shaky and it just didn’t quite land safely. I don’t know that he could compete with some of the other vocalists this season.

At the end of the show, the judges cut Felicia Russell, Carlington Roberts and Michael Washington from among the finalists… and we’re down to 7.  I agree with the judges on this decision.

I can’t deny that I’m longing for a bit of the skill and delivery of past seasons. If I recall, in those seasons, several contestants really stood out as virtually “ready-to-sign” artists. This season, not so much…

So far, Sunday Best isn’t a tough competition because there are so many great voices from which to choose; it’s tough because there aren’t enough.