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  Retailer, radio announcer and artist manager are only some of what she does. Quartet enthusiast Ms. Willie McClendon writes this regularly-appearing quartet column for Gospelflava.com. April 29, 2005 Quartet music continues to be a driving force within the gospel music industry. I've noticed a whole new appreciation for this genre of music from those in my area who previously didn't like it. I'm especially excited by the young people who are getting involved with this music, and are definitely propelling it to the next level of excellence. Yet, I'm amazed at how some people are still holding on to how singers used to be. I hope you are like me, and are simply glad that we serve a God who can cleanup and use anybody He wants. Lately, I've received and have listen to some great music from groups who may not be a household name at this time but let me tell you, many of them soon will be. During the celebration of my birthday [Editor’s note: you missed out if you weren’t there for this annual quartet bonanza!], I was privileged to have the Alabama Boys of Montgomery, AL as one of my guests. This group of professionals ripped it. They sang under the anointing and were dressed-up from the floor up. They left the audience begging for more. What an awesome experience to be in the company of men who love the Lord. If you haven't heard this group I recommend that you find their CD, and/or if you hear of them being in your area make sure you go hear them. Another group of young men you need to watch out for is Gospo Centric recording artists, The Soul Seekers. This group of young men has previously produced music for other artists, and now have their own project. Their self titled CD just hit the stores and debuted at #37 on the Billboard Charts. The project is electrifying and gives the listener an opportunity to appreciate their talent and recognize their vocal ability to drive a song. Joining the group on their initial project are gospel veterans Harvey Watkins and Paul Porter. The album is filled with music for everybody and is sure to continue its climb up the charts. The Gospel Wonders is another group you will want to add to your collection of music. This group of young men sing with a strong conviction and there is no doubt that they will be around for along time. Their chart buster is "Noah". Well, I cannot forget to mention the legends, in fact, let's call them gospel icons. I’m talking about The Mighty Clouds of Joy and The Sensational Nightingales. First, The Mighty Clouds of Joy, who after 44 years and 35 albums, three Grammys and many other awards, are still going strong. Newly signed to EMI Gospel, they just released what I believe to be one of their best projects, filled with old and new music. In The House Of The Lord - Live In Houston solidifies this group as one of the greatest to ever sing quartet music. The Lord gave lead singer Joe Ligon another dose of the Holy Ghost and he is belting every song like back in the day. The Clouds teamed up with renowned producer Sanchez Harley and the tight connection between producer and group is very evident as you listen to this project. I applaud Joe Ligon, Ron Staples, Mike Cook, Johnny Valentine and Richard Wallace on a superb and outstanding project. It is one you want to add to your collection. It continues to climb up the chart and is #12 on the Top Gospel Chart. Well, get ready for The Sensational Nightingales! The Gales’ new project is entitled Let Us Encourage You, and the song I've heard is full of encouragement. "I'm Taking Back Everything That The Devil Stole From Me" locks your leg into a groove that penetrates you body, soul and mind. What a terrific song, it causes the listener to erupt into an automatic praise knowing that the devil can't have nothin'. The lyrics are strong and let's the devil know that I'm taking back my song, my dance, my joy, my peace everything that he's stole I'm taking it back. There are other projects I recommend that you pick up: Margaret Allison & The Angelic Gospel Singers’ "Go On", Lil' Blair and the Violinaires’ "Times Like These", Paul Porter presents The Salem Harmonizers, Little Wayne & The Exciting Daytonians’ "I'll Be Alright", Gospel Miracles’ "Break Through" are just a few. Plans are underway for the 37th Annual Convention of the Gospel Music Workshop of America, to be held August 15-19, 2005. The theme this year for the Quartet Division, under the leadership of Tyrone Porter, is "Promoting Praise, Progress and Potential". Many activities are being planned for this week long event including the Quartet Quest Showcase Prize Package. This package will be awarded to an unsigned artist who is registered for the Unsigned Artists Showcase. The winner will receive a recording contract with For Life Miracle Records, media package, tour, radio & television appearances and more. If you feel your group is the best and/or can pass the test then you should be packing your bags for Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The National Association of Gospel Promoters & Mangers is meeting in Atlanta. This is their seventh annual meeting, and we are looking forward to a great time. Remember to support your favorite group by purchasing their product. May 2, 2005: UPDATE: James "BIG RED" Anderson of the lengendary Swanee Quintet went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 27, 2005. He will be funeralized on Thursday, May 6, at Buelah Grove Baptist Church in Augusta, GA. Our heartfelt sympathy is extended to the Anderson family and Swanee Quintet. First Lite Records recording artist Paul Thompson went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, April 28, 2005. Paul was diagnosed with leukemia in January. This young man will be sadly missed by all who knew him. He was an active member of the Gospel Annoucers Guild of GMWA; his homegoing service is scheduled for Monday, May 2 at Nazareth Apostolic Church located in Hartsville, South Carolina. Let's keep Pastor Shirley Caesar lifted up in prayer as she mourns the passing of her brother. Gospelflava.com recognizes the importance and impact that this genre of music is making in our lives and are happy to announce the launching of this column dedicated to quartets. It's Shouts and Drives. If you wish to contact us about a new quartet project, email us here. Previous Shouts and Drives Columns: June 2003 August 2003 September 2003 October 2003 December 2003 February 2004 May 2004 August 2004 October 2004 December 2004
December 28, 2004 |
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