Heads-up, buddies…

Fan voting for the 41st annual Dove Awards is now open at http://www.gospelmusicchannel.com/fanvoting.  Fans will help to decide the winners of the “Artist Of The Year” and “New Artist Of The Year” categories.  You may vote once via web and once via SMS text.

Voting runs from now until April 20, 2010.  The Dove Awards will be broadcast on Sunday, April 25th at 8pm ET exclusively on gmc.

The nominees for the 41st annual Dove Awards were announced on Thursday.

Natalie Grant and Bart Millard will host the awards show on April 21st.  Unlike last year, the awards will not be broadcast live– they will air on gmc on Sunday, April 25, 2010 from 8pm-10pm EST.

There are 43 categories and you guys don’t know most of the names in ‘em, so I’m not typing it all… sorry.  BUT, you can visit http://www.gmclife.com/41st-dove-award-nominees for the full list.

In the meantime, a quick recap of some of the folks you’ll find there:

Donnie McClurkin, Israel Houghton, Melinda Watts, Freddy Washington, Brian Courtney Wilson, Mali Music, Vickie Winans, Smokie Norful, Mary Mary, Crystal Aikin, Bishop Paul Morton, Hezekiah Walker, Heather Headley, Mandisa, B. Reith, Fred Hammond, Group 1 Crew, Da’ T.R.U.T.H., BeBe & CeCe Winans… see, there are just too many to name!

Ok, more Dove Awards info and discussion as the time draws nigh.  Until then, tell me what you think about the nominee list!

The Gospel Music Association’s wildly successful GMA Week has been set for April 18th through 21st in Nashville, TN.  The week will culminate, as always, with the 41st Annual Dove Awards.

Anybody planning to attend?  I’m soooooo gonna try to be there, especially if the quality of the awards show is ANYWHERE close to where it was this year… just sheer excellence.

In related news, the GMA held a mega fundraiser on Monday night here in Nashville, dubbed the “Concert Of The Decade,” in an attempt to save the non-profit organization from recent financial woes.  Tickets to attend were $1,000 apiece (yes… three zeros) and the benefit featured performances by Kirk Franklin, Natalie Grant, Amy Grant, Casting Crowns, Michael W. Smith and many more.  Did anyone watch it online… or attend in person???

The event is said to have sold 350 tix for a total of $350,000, but the venue’s capacity was about 800 seats… Hopefully, this will be a helpful start.  The GMA is an asset to the Christian music community.

I got a chance to catch up with one of the busiest newer artists in the gospel industry– Darlene McCoy.

Not only is she a celebrated recording artist (her self-titled debut album did pretty well in 2007), Darlene can be seen on television, heard on radio, viewed on web video chats… geeeeez!  You definitely don’t wanna miss out on the exciting stuff that she’s doing– it’s innovative and Kingdom-building.

Anyway, she can talk about all that she’s doing better than I can, so here’s my chat with Darlene McCoy…

*     *     *

EJ:  Hey there! How are ya?

DM:  I’m good.  How are you?

EJ:  I’m good!  Thanks for taking a minute to chat with me.  You’ve got a lot going on right now, right?

DM:  Yeah!

EJ:  Talk to me about what’s up.

DM:  Well, I’ve got a new radio show.  I’m a midday host on Atlanta’s Praise 102.5.  That, in itself, is taking a lot out of me because I’ve never been in radio in my life (other than some work that I did with Canton Jones).  So, I’m learning and getting the feel of things and that’s been really cool.

That all happened in the middle of me working on my second record, so some things have slowed up a little bit, but I’m still trying to get that ready and done.

EJ:  Very nice!

DM:  Also, I have an online ministry called “In My Living Room.”  It just kinda started on Facebook, but it’s become pretty popular.

EJ:  It REALLY has.

DM:  Yeah, with Facebook and Twitter… a lot of my online friends.  “In My Living Room” is kind of a reality ministry and, basically, we talk about life topics.  More than just what we talk about in church… we talk about a little more.

EJ:  Why was that important for you to do?  Were we lacking stuff in church?! *laughs*

DM:  Absolutely!  A lot of times, we lack reality in church.  People don’t realize that you were human before you became a Christian.  There are so many things that we miss by trying to box all of life into Christianity.

And what I mean by that– I don’t want people to get me wrong– we definitely govern ourselves as Christians, but we live our lives as human beings.

*pauses and says to herself “Is she getting arrested?!“*

*returns to the convo*  I’m sorry.

EJ:  *laughing hard*  You’re driving?

DM:  *laughing*  I’m sorry.  I’m driving… and I’m nosy, too.  I am SO nosy! *laughs*

EJ:  *laughs* That’s hilarious!

DM:  But unfortunately, sometimes our church experience is all that we have, as Christians, to give to the world.  And we don’t take the time to have a common ground with non-Christians.

EJ:  So true.

DM:  So, the whole idea behind “In My Living Room” is that, the things that are hush-hush– things we don’t want to talk about– let’s talk about ‘em and bring the reality of life to it.

And I’m actually going to start moving more into the direction of talking about life-focused topics that are mainstream, not just Christian.  But with that, I’ll give the Christian HEART behind it.

EJ:  Sure.

DM:  You know what I mean?  So that people can understand that we’re not just a bunch of church folks.

EJ:  Right.  They’ll see that we actually deal with practical issues in life.

DM:  Yeah.  We deal with practical issues.  And also, a lot of non-Christians think that the life of a Christian is boring.  It’s so wack.  And they think it’s a little club that you have to be invited to join.  And they’re like “whatever.”

But when they see us living life, and being successful in life, and doing great things in life… then, they wonder “okay, how do you do ALL of that?”

EJ:  Wow.

DM:  And that becomes attractive, for non-Christians, so they’ll want to know who Christ is.

EJ:  Awesome.  I’ve watched “In My Living Room” a couple of times and you have a great turn-out of people weighing-in on topics via chatroom.  Where are you broadcasting from?

DM:  Well, I was broadcasting right from in my living room.  And that’s where the name came from.  It didn’t dawn on me until months later that “In My Living Room” could actually mean Christian living. *laughing*

EJ:  C’mon now!

DM:  I was talking about, like… my ACTUAL living room. *laughs hard*

EJ:  *laughing* Right!  Like, “in my HOUSE.”

DM:  And I talked to my husband about it later and he said “I’ve never thought about it being our living room, I thought it was the CHRISTIAN LIVING room.”  I was like “oh.” *laughs*

But lately, I’ve been so busy– I’ve got two sons playin’ football, I’m running all over the place– I’m logging in whenever and from wherever I can.

EJ:  I hear that.  And that’s the beauty of the web.  When do you do it and how can people be a part of it?

DM:  What they need to do is, every Wednesday night at 10pm ET, go to www.darlenemccoytv.com and log in.  You type in your nickname, whatever you wanna be called.  You don’t have to say your real name– you can remain anonymous and say what you want.

The only thing is, if you say stuff out of the way… if it’s vulgar or whatever it is– I always wear this stiletto Versace boot and I will BOOT you out of my living room. *laughing*

EJ:  *laughs* It’s gotta be a Versace, though!

DM:  *laughing* It’s a Versace!

EJ:  That’s good, though, because I know that even on GospelPundit, sometimes people get a little testy.

DM:  Yeah.

EJ:  Now, you were doing something on TV before, too, right?  You were doing some weight-loss challenge…

DM:  Yeah!  I was with Dr. Ian Smith, State Farm’s 50 Million Pound Challenge.  Gospel Music Channel asked me to be their artist for that particular effort. And I did.  I lost 30 pounds with the plan…

EJ:  Congratulations.

DM:  Thank you very much.  Then, gained 25 BACK…

EJ:  Well, that’s… alright!

DM:  *laughing* And just lost 26 more.

The thing of it is– and I’ve learned this from experience– you cannot deprive yourself of things you need because once the diet is over, you’re gonna gain it all back.  So, I’m on a new eating plan now and I’ve lost a lot of weight by just eating right.

And by eating right, I mean just looking on the labels on the backs of bread or something. You know? The actual BAG.

EJ:  Yooo!  Yes!  Because, for real, my wife just bought some 12-grain bread yesterday and I said “it’s so healthy!”  And she said “actually, that 12-grain bread has more sugar and less fiber than the 7-grain bread.”  But how would you know that unless you look at the back?! You’d assume that 12 grains were better than 7.

DM:  That’s exactly right.  It’s really important to know the guidelines and how to read what’s there.  Once you know that, you’re good.

EJ:  Now, you mentioned a second record in the works.  Talk to me about where that’s gonna be.  Are you’re still at EMI Gospel?

DM:  No, I’m not at EMI anymore, but we’re talking about the distribution part going through EMI Gospel.  I just… I dunno… that whole label thing is a different kind of beast.

EJ:  Yeah.  It can be rough.

DM:  And I think that… with me, on EMI Gospel, brand new artist… there were already so many established artists that there was just… y’know, I guess… there was no time for me. *laughing*

They had so many other things they were working on, y’know?  So many… I would say “bigger fish to fry”… with my record, it was like “okay, do your best, chick.” *laughing*

EJ:  *laughs* But that album did well.

DM:  It was a blessing.  The record was nominated for two Dove Awards– for Urban Album Of The Year and Urban Song Of The Year.  And I have to say that EMI did an incredible job with getting my name out there, even without a budget.

EJ:  Sure.  And at the end of the day, it’s about a FIT.  A lot of new artists think they wanna be signed to a big label– Verity or EMI or whatever– but a lot of artists don’t realize that if they don’t FIT you, or they are not a business that provides what your particular ministry requires, it may not be the best situation.

DM:  Right!  You’re so right.

EJ:  So, when DO we get some new music?  Are you gonna add something on MySpace or do we get a sneak listen somewhere?

DM:  I might sneak and let my “In My Living Room”-ers listen to a song.

EJ:  Very nice.  So, there’s ANOTHER reason folks need to get on the ball.  Get up in the living room.

DM:  *laughing*  C’mon in my living room and lemme turn the speakers up!

EJ:  *laughs* Right! You’re doing some great stuff.

DM:  But I wanna say to you EJ, I really enjoy your blog.  It’s just cool.

EJ:  Wow.  Thank you.

DM:  Yeah.  I just enjoy it.  I especially enjoy reading your blog because it’s so… I wanna say “off-key” but I want you to understand what I’m saying.  It’s so “not the norm.”  And you have such a fresh perspective on the things that you write, so I just really enjoy it and I’m honored to do this interview with you today.

EJ:  Oh, absolutely.  Thank you so much.  I knew that I wanted to chat with you– I saw all that you were doing and I thought “this is real.  This is someone who has a burden for the work to be done in the industry.”

DM:  Amen.

EJ:  And I gravitate toward that– it’s more than just singing.  Ok, you’ve got a nice album and what not, but if you’re stank backstage…

DM:  HA! *laughing*

EJ:  But that’s for another article.

DM:  And I’ve never been able to understand that.  It’s like “you say you’re a Christian?!  Ewwwww!” *laughing*

But I really feel like the Lord is raising up no-names as the new names.  And people that are coming RIGHT from the heart of God.  Right from under His shadow, if I can get REAL spiritual with you. *laughs*

EJ:  For the holy rollers!

DM:  *laughing* Right!  They’re coming RIGHT from the hiding place! *laughs*

But, seriously, he’s giving those people the platform to let others know that it’s SO not what it used to be.  We don’t have to settle for that garbage.

EJ:  Amen.  I’m exciting for what he’s doing.

DM:  Yeah.

EJ:  Well, thanks so much for talkin’ to me.  I really appreciate it.

DM:  Ok, my friend.

EJ:  And keep in touch.  I’m sure I’ll talk to you soon.

DM:  Ok, EJ.  Take care!

EJ:  You too.  Bye-bye.

*     *     *

You probably gathered from the interview– Darlene McCoy is HILARIOUS.  She exudes such humility with a boldness based on what God has called her to do.  I love it.  And, as I said… HILARIOUS.

Just for your listening pleasure, here’s a video of her singing “Amazing,” one of my favorite songs from her (it’s just one of those feel-good grooves!):

What did you guys think of the chit-chat?  Talk to me!

It’s been a minute since I’ve done a Where YOU Been?! post… this time around, I’m wondering where we can find Charles & Taylor.

They were around for a hot minute, but I have no idea where they went.  Their self-titled album was released on Integrity Music in 2005 and featured the single “Still Gonna Pray” (which I ADORED).  They were nominated in the “Urban Gospel Album” category at the 2006 Dove Awards.  Charles & Taylor, aged 15 and 13 respectively at the time, are siblings that I thought would be their generation’s urban version of Bebe & CeCe Winans.

They both had GREAT, mature voices and I was really excited to follow what they’d do.  So, I did a little diggin’…

First stop was their website, http://www.charlesandtaylor.com/.  It’s still up, though it hasn’t really been updated in a while (some newer pics, though).  Same goes for their MySpace page, though it indicates that there will be new music coming soon.  NICE!  Can’t wait to hear how they sound now.

Here’s a YouTube video (audio only) of their single, “Still Gonna Pray.”  I STILL jam to it:

My assumption is that they took some time to finish high school and they’re gonna re-enter the scene now. If so, that’s a good look. I’ma try to track ‘em down some more and find out what the deal is.

In the meantime, y’all remember them???  What do you think of the single?

If you’ve visited this site for more than a week, you’ve probably seen some discussion about gospel music and secular music, and the interplay of the two… it’s a highly debated topic in the Body of Christ, and kinda has been since gospel music began in the early 20th century.

So, I’m eager to hear what Grammy, Dove and Stellar Award-winning writer and producer, PJ Morton, has to say about the topic in his debut book, Why Can’t I Sing About Love?  The Truth About the “Church” Against “Secular” Music.
 
As the son of Bishop Paul Morton, PJ Morton has often come under fire for his “secular” music leanings and work (though, I’ve always kinda thought of him as a gap-bridger, cuz he writes some great love songs!).

According to his press release, Why Can’t I Sing About Love? deals with the “age-old argument of sacred vs. non-sacred music.”  PJ Morton explains that many of the doctrines to which we are adhering were man-made and not Biblically based.  Finding fuel in Song of Solomon, Morton highlights “the love God says a man should have for his wife.”

The book will be released on August 11, 2009, but you can get an advance copy NOW at www.whycantisingaboutlove.com.

Sounds interesting, no?  Talk to me.

THIS dude is a great artist.  You’ve heard me mention J.R. before (click here to see my recap from the Urban Soul Cafe event during the Stellar Awards weekend).

This single, “Not A Slave,” from J.R.’s most recent album, Life By Stereo, has done very well in the industry, even earning a Dove Award nomination for Urban Recorded Song.

And here’s the video for it– good concept, full of energy and tastefully produced.  It’s simple enough, which is refreshing, but still grabs your attention.

You like???

Ummm… the ladies of Trin-i-tee 5:7 did their thing BIG TIME at the 2008 Dove Awards, as they performed their hit single, “Listen.”

The vocals were tight, the stage presentation was innovative and well-executed… It makes me wish that more gospel artists would do a better job of combining ministry with entertainment. I think it glorifies God to give an excellent presentation with ALL of our God-given gifts, resources, creativity and abilities…

Thoughts???

The nominees for BET’s 9th annual BET Awards have been announced.  Jamie Foxx will host the show, which will be telecast live from Los Angeles on Sunday, June 28th at 8pm ET.

The nominees for “Best Gospel Artist” are:

Regina Belle | Shirley Caesar | Mary Mary |

Smokie Norful | Trin-I-Tee 5:7

Ok, let me say this from jump:  CONGRATULATIONS TO EACH OF THE NOMINEES.  What I’m about to say is intended neither to discourage nor discredit you and the work you’re doing to advance the mighty Kingdom of God on this Earth…

Now… WHAT?!

Can ANYONE tell me when the eligibility period is?  I’m assuming that “date of album release” is irrelevant.  Smokie Norful’s album came out last month.  So, if he’s eligible, so is Donald Lawrence, Israel Houghton and Donnie McClurkin, as they each had first-quarter releases, too.  Were they considered?

Plus… is it just me, or is the entire industry playin’ Kierra Sheard?!  First, the Dove Awards and now this.

And didn’t James Fortune & FIYA just blaaaaaze radio and what not?  What’s a man gotta do?!

Anyhoo, I’m predicting Mary Mary for this one– they’re sweeping everything else and BET loves ‘em.  And so do we!

Incredible video… I almost couldn’t decide between posting it as a Video Pick or including the group as part of the Across The Aisle series (cuz y’all need to be up on Casting Crowns anyway!), but I decided I’ma do the video today and the full Across The Aisle deal later.

The song, “Slow Fade,” brilliantly talks about how our biggest issues don’t just HAPPEN.  They start with something much smaller– one glance, one idea, one decision– until we slowly fade into HUGE issues.

The video concept is phenomenal, working backwards to show the progression of our sinful nature… how one “imprudent” decision often leads to major sin struggles in our lives.  And the production is just as spectacular.  In fact, they just won the Dove Award last week for Short Form Music Video.

What do you think???  Feel free to weigh-in on the video and the song!