No big debuts this week, though the soundtrack to Joyful Noise experienced a significant sales bump, from the #22 position to the #3 spot. Not sure what caused that, but kudos to ya!

Here’s this week’s full top 10 at Billboard:

1 | Marvin Sapp – I Win
2 | WOW Gospel 2012
3 | Various Artists – Joyful Noise (Soundtrack)
4 | Trip Lee – The Good Life
5 | William McDowell – Arise
6 | Fred Hammond – God, Love & Romance
7 | Elder Goldwire McClendon – The Best of…
8 | JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise – After This
9 | James Fortune & FIYA – Identity
10 | Le’Andria Johnson – The Awakening of…

Next week, I’m expecting a #1 debut for Mary Mary’s new album, Go Get It. Check out this full album review at gmc: http://www.watchgmctv.com/music/review/album/mary-mary-go-get-it

Music World Gospel is prepping for the release of the debut EP of Elder Goldwire McClendon, from Season Three of BET’s Sunday Best. The project, titled The Best of Elder Goldwire McClendon, hits stores on April 24, 2012 and will feature new recordings of the same songs he performed on the show.

The 81-year old vocalist delivered heartfelt and power-packed tunes each week before yielding the title to Le’Andria Johnson.

Pre-order the project by clicking right here!

It’s down to Amber Bullock and Andrea Helms as the finalists of this season’s Sunday Best on BET.  Public voting opened this past Sunday, and we’ll know the winner this Sunday, September 4th.  But, then what?

Sure, the winner will release her debut album on the Music World Gospel label, after Mathew Knowles struck a deal with BET to sign the winners of last season and this season. But after the buzz of winning dies down, and the album runs its cycle… what for the winner?

Big album sales? More performance opportunities? Big money? Maybe not…

The problem, as I see it, is similar across most talent competition shows– interest in the program does not equal interest in the winner’s album or long-term career.

We have cared enough to tune in, cared enough to comment, and we may even care enough to vote. It costs us nothing but our time. But to spend $10 on any one of the finalists’ albums is clearly more of a “vote” than even a fraction of the show’s millions of viewers are willing to make.

See, the audience cares, just not that much.  So, the biggest challenge for the winners– and the labels to which they’re signed– is to make more of the viewers into consumers. It’s to make us fall so in love with the product– the artist, that is, not the show itself– that we still care even once a new season begins.

This is particularly important for Amber and/or Andrea, by the way, as I’m hearing rumblings that BET will start auditions for its next season sooner than ever, within the next month or two.

Which begs another question– does it even matter who wins? With the exception of Elder Goldwire McLendon last season, both the winner and runner-up have received album contracts. In fact, Crystal Aikin and runner-up Shari Addison released their albums on the same day in 2009.

So, maybe Sunday Best is more of just a fun weekly showcase of this nation’s homegrown gospel talent than a platform to become ‘the next big’ whatever. Maybe it’s just a resume builder, as opposed to the grand career launch pad that many think it is.

Don’t get me wrong– I enjoy the show and plan to tune in each season. Without question, Sunday Best is one of the most entertaining television programs to ever hit the gospel industry.

But what if that’s all it is?

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!

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.

This week, I wanted to give you a Sunday Best double-recap of sorts… I have a little somethin’ to say about the show, and will do so later, but first, Troy Lilly is back with another great recap of last night’s episode…

*     *     *

We’re now very close to crowning a winner for season three of BET’s Sunday Best, and last night there was more impressive singing and even a little dancing.  But not without a couple surprises.  More on that later, though.

If you’ve been watching this season you know how the show works– Kirk Franklin introduces the guest musical artist for the week, they perform, and then the contestants hit the stage, right?  Well not when the guest artist is Israel Houghton.  The man behind the success of Israel and New Breed ushered the audience into worship with his version of “Moving Forward.”  For a moment it looked like we wouldn’t be able to move forward but, after a short reprise, we returned to the regularly scheduled programming, for a while.

The two-part show was graced with another great performance by Brian Courtney Wilson, who stopped by to sing “All I Need” from his breakthrough debut album Just Love.  As Kirk said, if you haven’t heard of him you’ll certainly be blessed by his music.

For last night’s episode the theme was “crossover,” blending traditional gospel songs with secular songs that feature inspirational messages.  Each of the three contestants were to sing a “secular” song during the first half and a “gospel” song in the second half.  I was quite curious to see how this week’s theme would play out as I believed it would further distinguish each singer’s versatility – or lack thereof.  But hey, what do I know?

Tina Campbell, Yolanda Adams and Donnie McClurkin held it down as judges once more.  Kirk also mentioned there would be “hard judging.” I’m not so sure that’s what we got. But this is how it went down:

Durward Davis – “Change the World” and “I Need You Now”
Earlier this year, EJ explained in a post on Sunday Best rules that contestants have little say in what songs they sing.  Durward was given an Eric Clapton song from a movie soundtrack to sing first.  I am certain he would have chosen a different song.  That being said, he made the most of an unusual song choice.  For the limited amount of time he had, Durward really brought “Change the World” to a climax and embraced the melody.  He was clearly uneasy after the performance, though he maintained a smile while singing.  For round two, he took on Smokie Norful’s gospel ballad which is no easy task, but he nailed that, too (in my opinion).  Even after his voice was about to give out, he kept giving his all until the very end.

LeAndria Johnson – “Heaven Help Us All” and “I Love the Lord”
I’m guessing a lot of folks are happy the judges don’t kick people off the show when they forget words, because if that were true LeAndria would’ve gone home tonight.  During “Heaven Help Us All – a song made famous by Stevie Wonder – the normally unflappable LeAndria stumbled through the lyrics of both verses.  But her voice remained intact (for the most part), and if I wasn’t such a huge Stevie fan I may not have realized she shuffled and omitted words. It surely never showed on her face.  LeAndria’s second performance was a victory lap – figuratively and literally. This time her words and vocals were in sync. The surprise wasn’t the judges’ reactions but hers.  After her stirring rendition of “I Love the Lord” she dropped her microphone and danced across the stage for about 30 seconds.  Yolanda and Donnie cut a step, too.

Elder Goldwire McLendon – “Falling in Love with Jesus” and “Oh, Happy Day”
Elder knew he had to rise to the competition a bit after a less-than-stellar performance last week.  I’m happy to report that that he didn’t forget the words last night!  However, I’m not sure how his first song qualified as secular since it’s a love song about Jesus.  I still have a big question mark in my mind here– “Change the World” vs. “Falling in Love with Jesus”?  Maybe it’s just me, but I don’t get it.  Aside from my gripes with the song, Elder McLendon certainly conveyed his love for God when he sang.  His tone and approach mirrored what we’ve seen from him every week, and of course, the anointing was on him.  Wrapping up the performance portion of the night, he sang the Edwin Hawkins song that introduced gospel music to the mainstream.  Again, I was amazed at how tight and consistent Elder’s delivery was in relation to other weeks on the show.  He continued to wow judges.  Donnie was reduced to tears.

At the end of the night only LeAndria Johnson and Elder Goldwire McLendon advanced to become the final two.

While I wish both LeAndria and Elder Goldwire the best going into this season’s final round, I strongly disagree with Durward Davis being eliminated.  The best way I can defend my opinion is with the judges’ own words.  From the start of this competition the judges have repeatedly praised Durward’s ability to paint pictures and take people on a journey with his songs.  He especially rose to the challenge last night by tackling a vague secular song.  He might as well have sung “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper…he may have even been better off singing that.  I believe his performances are always complete while other performers give me 1:30 that feels exactly like 1:30 into a song.  I’m sad to see him go, but I’m confident he’ll be successful.  Again, I’m so thrilled for LeAndria and Elder Goldwire.

Furthermore, the judging has lacked tangible content to me. I’d love to hear more advice for improvement that is applicable for the folks who go home as well as the folks who stay.  Everyone is in a position to improve.  We all love gospel music and we want singers to be balanced – trained and anointed so the anointing doesn’t have to do ALL the work.

It’s very exciting to see this season drawing to a close.  So, between LeAndria and Elder McLendon, who’s it gonna be?

I KNOW you guys have a lot to say.  And we want to hear you!