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.
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