In 2005, publicist and journalist Bill Carpenter compiled his gospel music research into one cohesive work– Uncloudy Days: The Gospel Music Encyclopedia. It “chronicles the careers of over 650 gospel artists and personalities from 1900 to the present day.” So, yeah… it’s kinda like a collector’s item.

The book’s got stuff about everyone from Thomas A. Dorsey to Mahalia Jackson, the Hawkins family to the Winans family, and everything in between– folks you never even knew EXISTED.

If you’re grabbin’ something for a gospel music lover, they’ll probably appreciate the stories, interviews, photos and more that abound in this book. Check it out!

WATCH THIS VIDEO. And I’m not playin’.

First, lemme say that I typically don’t want anyone to remake Hawkins tunes… just prolly won’t do a good enough job for my liking.  But indie ensemble Destiny Praise tastefully remakes the classic hit “Changed” in a way that deserves MAJOR kudos.

Further, this video is one of the most creative and well-executed videos I’ve seen from an independent artist in a verrry long time, if ever.  The concept is refreshing and, by the end, I found myself worshipping God for the “changes” He made in MY life.  Destiny Praise has done a phenomenal job of visually displaying the lyrics/theme of the song.

Check it out and lemme know what you think!

AWESOME!!!

Folks, I’m telling you now– tune in to Gospel Music Channel THIS Sunday at 8pm ET… they’re showing the concert film, Oh Happy Day.

In case you don’t know what it is, it’s a live concert featuring Walter Hawkins & The Hawkins Family, The Clark Sisters, Shirley Caesar, The Mighty Clouds Of Joy, and Rev. James Cleveland.

The original broadcast aired on PBS years ago, but kudos to GMC for the good gospel programming in celebration of Gospel Music Heritage Month.

Take THAT, Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman!

OH MY WORD.  I was a KID when Tramaine Hawkins’ Live album was released in 1990.  But when it came out, I immediately memorized every lick, every riff, every line of it and have been a fan ever since.  In fact, I was introduced to Walter Hawkins’ music by way of THIS album (backwards, I know, but it’s the truth).  It may be one of my favorite live albums in the market.

On the album, she performs “Changed” as part of a medley among other classic Hawkins cuts.  This performance is SOOOO incredible to me.  We have RARELY seen someone clobber a song like this.  I wish I coulda BEEN there… sometimes makes me wonder if I was born in the right generation.

Watch and lemme know what you think:

I think folks kinda Slept On this album and I’m humbly urging you to reconsider.

The McClurkin Project released We Praise You, their sophomore album, in 2006.  The family group included Donnie McClurkin and his sisters Tanya McClurkin, Cheri McClurkin, Andrea Mellini, and the late, never EVER to be forgotten, Olivia McClurkin.  Long-time family friend Carol Carter is also a member of the group.

Their sound was incredibly reminiscent of the Hawkins family– that tight-knit sound with rich background vocals and memorable leads.  I love just about every track on this album, with my faves being “We Praise You,” written and led by Andrea Mellini, “I Am Your Servant Lord,” “If You’re Ever Feeling Lonely,” and ”Precious Lord,” led by Olivia McClurkin.

And who can deny the incredible imagery and power in the instant classic “As Long As There’s You” led by Andrea, Olivia and Donnie?!  Listen to a snippet of that here:

Also, watch this video clip of Andrea leading the album’s single, “We Praise You,” at the live recording:

Who has the album?  Who decided to pass on it?  Why?  Talk to me!

Ever notice how, when it comes time to feature gospel artists at a major television event, you can kinda bet your money that you’ll see Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, Yolanda Adams, Donnie McClurkin or CeCe Winans among the performers?

Don’t get me wrong: I love the music ministries of these artists– they have labored HARD for the Lord and their gifts have made room for them, so that they can glorify God in other arenas.

But where does that leave the other artists?  I think of folks like Fred Hammond, Richard Smallwood, Donald Lawrence, the Hawkins family and the rest of the Winans family.  On one hand, I say that God uses each of his vessels the way HE sees fit.  Everyone ain’t the head, some are the arm or leg, and that’s gotta be cool with us.  On the other hand, I think some folks are straight blockin’.

So, questions:  Is there an “upper eschelon” in gospel music?  Are there just 4 or 5 major artists who get all the play, while everyone else is struggling to get recognition?  Is it just an issue of God’s calling, or are some people really getting the short end of the stick because of business decisions?

Lemme know what you think.  AND, name some artists that you think should be getting some more opportunities.

Is it just me, or don’t you wanna see a Hawkins Family reunion album?