AM 1310: The Light » Gospel News

Lecrae: ‘You Were Made For A Purpose.’ [WATCH]

Oretha Winston, Lead Editor — Mon, 20 May 2013 14:30:04 +0000

Lecrae as always been straight forward about his life.

Take a look at the video below.

” href=”http://elev8.com/887363/isaac-carree-is-ready-for-the-full-reset-watch/” rel=”bookmark”>Isaac Carree Is Ready For The Full Reset [WATCH]

Pastor Charles Jenkins: Matthews Chapter 8

DeVon Franklin: Cutting It Together [VIDEO]

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Men of Gospel

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2013 Essence Festival Announces Empowerment Experience Stage Schedule Of Events

Donna Schiele — Sun, 19 May 2013 17:56:43 +0000

The Essence Empowerment Experience Stage, the core of the annual Essence Festival, will feature icons, newsmakers, national leaders, activists, artists, entrepreneurs, celebrities, journalists, educators, and experts to showcase the many dimensions of the African-American community including a central focus on information to improve women’s day-to-day lives. The schedule was a announced Monday, May 13.

This year’s 2013 Essence Empowerment Experience Stage highlights will include the return of Steve Harvey, who will host a live edition of his top-rated game show “Family Feud”; keynote conversations from Rev. Al Sharpton , Iyanla Vanzant, Marc Morialand Lisa Nichols ; an historic commemoration of the 50th anniversary of 1963—the turning point in the Civil Rights Movement—with Rep. John Lewis, Myrlie Evers-Williams, Rep. Eleanor Holmes-Norton and others.

There will be a standing-room only All-Star Gospel Tribute to Tramaine Hawkins andDonnie McClurkin with Yolanda Adams andBishop Noel Jones. The Empowerment Experience Stage is held at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in the Great Hall from Thursday, July 4th through Sunday, July 7 from 11 a,m. to 5 p.m. Doors will open at 9:30 a,m, on Thursday, July 4.

Dr. Steve Perry, Niecy Nash, Issa Rae, Roland Martin, Tonya Lewis Lee, DeVon Franklin, Julianne Malveaux , Dr. Valerie Montgomery, Dr. Michael Lomax and Monique Greenwood are among the panelists who will discuss jobs and the economy, education, gun violence in our cities, the mortgage crisis, immigration, relationships, and images on reality television.

“Over the past four decades African-American women have made remarkable gains, enjoying high rates of socio-economic mobility and educational attainment. They are self-confident, optimistic, and joyful,” says Essence President Michelle Ebanks. “The Essence Empowerment Experience Stage programming strengthens our community bonds, and provides information that is critical to this continued success.”

Thursday, July 4: Family For Life
The Essence Empowerment Experience Stage will introduce it’s first-ever, free and open-to-the-public, “Family Reunion Day.” Hosted by Master P. and his children, Romeo and Cymphonique, the day will center around a renewed focus on family. Celebrities and acclaimed, nationally recognized speakers such as Roland Martin , Dr. Steve Perry , Dr. Denese Shervington , Tonya Lewis Lee and Traci and Trina Braxton will participate.

Friday, July 5, 2013: Healthy Mind, Spirit & Relationships
Hosted by ” Steve Harvey Morning Show ” personality and author Shirley Strawberry , festivalgoers will be able to attend seminars on healthy living in both mind and spirit. The morning will start with families competing on Steve Harvey ‘s always amusing “Family Feud.” In the afternoon, attendees will have the chance to hear firsthand from Kenya Moore , Shaunie O’Neal, Andrea Kelly , Chanté Moore and Monifah in “The Real Truth Behind Reality TV.” We will also get tips on how to be sexy at any age with our panel that includes Nicole Murphy , Victoria Rowell , Dr. Rachael Ross and Mayte Garcia . Attendees will also gain vital strategies on how to “Own Your Power” featuring Transformation Specialist Lisa Nichols . ESSENCE Editor-at-Large Mikki Taylor will lead a timely discussion on “Putting Ourselves First,” and breakout “Young & The Restless” star Redaric Williams will be one of the men who will talk “Sex & Love: On His Mind.”

Saturday, July 6: Be Fearless In Your Community
Discussions on civil rights, education and women’s rights underscore the social and cultural significance of today’s seminars. With keynote speakers Iyanla Vanzant and Reverend Al Sharpton , Saturday, July 6, 2013 will be an unforgettable day of ideas, innovation and solutions to critical issues in the Black community. Many of the nation’s top mayors will discuss ending gun violence; Dr. Steve Perry will lead a discussion with real-life education activist mothers who will show mothers how to successfully navigate public and private school systems; top Black women entrepreneurs will share the secrets of their success in building their own brands and giving back; Rep. John Lewis will salute Women Leaders of the Civil Rights Movement, including eagerly anticipated remarks from Myrlie Evers-Williams on the 50th anniversary of 1963—the turning point year in The Movement; and we will conclude with the country’s top thinkers on a wide range of issues from the mortgage crisis to immigration in The Black Women’s Agenda 2013.

Sunday, July 7: The 5th Anniversary of Praise & Inspiration
Journalist and author Cheryl Wills returns as host for the standing room only “Get Lifted All-Star Gospel Tribute to Tramaine Hawkins and Donnie McClurkin ” with Yolanda Adams, Bishop Lester Love, Michelle Williams, Tasha Cobbs, Amber Bullock, Tyronne Foster and The Arc Singers, Kurt Carr, Isaac Carree, Kim Burrell, Bishop Noel Jones and many more.

Day-By-Day Schedule:
The day-by-day schedule of the Essence Empowerment Experience Stage is as follows:

Thursday, July 4: Family For Life
Hosts: Master P, Romeo, Cymphonique
“Why Our Children Should Come Home,” with Roland Martin
“Saving Our Sons,” with Dr. Steve Perry , Master P. and DeVon Franklin
“Feeding Our Children: Mind, Body & Soul,” with Tonya Lewis Lee , Dr. Denese Shervington and Carol Bebelle
“Q&A” featuring Traci and Trina Braxton

Friday, July 5, 2013: Healthy Mind, Spirir & Relationships
Host: Shirley Strawberry
“Family Feud,” hosted by Steve Harvey
“I Beat: Health, Journeys & Transformations,” with Denise Warren , Robin D. Stone , Entourage Members of Body by Denise and Dr. Aletha Maybank
“The Real Truth On Reality TV,” moderated by Michelle Williams with Kenya Moore , Shaunie O’Neal, Andrea Kelly and Chanté Moore
“Sexy At Any Age: Embrace You Inner Naughty Girls,” with Nicole Murphy , Shirley Strawberry , Dr. Rachael Ross , Victoria Rowell , Mayte Garcia and Kenya Moore
“Own Your Power,” featuring Lisa Nichols
“Putting Ourselves First,” moderated by Mikki Taylor with Niecy Nash , Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice , Dr. Denese Shervington , Lisa Nichols and Tonya Lewis Lee
“Sex & Love: On His Mind,” with Redaric Williams and Chef Roble

Saturday, July 6: Be Fearless In Your Community
Keynote: Reverend Al Sharpton
Keynote Address: Marc Morial
Keynote Address: Iyanla Vanzant
“Reinvent Your Life & Your Business,” Moderated by Tanisha Sykes with Monique Greenwood , Issa Rae , Michele Clark Jenkins and Stephanie Moore Perry
“Where Smart Starts,” with Dr. Steve Perry , Dr. Thelma Baxter and Dr. Michael Lomax
“Icons of the Civil Rights Movement,” with Congressman John Lewis , Shirley Sherrod , Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton and Myrlie Evers Williams
“Black Women’s Agenda 2013,” C. Nicole Mason , Karen Carter Peterson and Dr. Julianne Malveaux

Sunday, July 7: The 5th Anniversary of Praise & Inspiration
Host: Cheryl Wills
“Get Lifted All-Star Gospel Tribute” to Tramaine Hawkins and Donnie McClurkin
A full-day of praise, songs and worship, with Bishop Lester Love and the City of Love, Yolanda Adams, Michelle Williams, Amber Bullock, Tasha Cobbs, Bishop Noel Jones, Tyronne Foster and The Arc Singers, Kurt Carr, Isaac Carree, Kim Burrell and many more.

For information about ticket sales, accommodations and the latest news about the ESSENCE FESTIVAL, visit ESSENCE Festival www.essencefestival.com. Join the Festival community: follow us on Twitter @essencefest #EssenceFest and become a fan of 2013 ESSENCE Festival on Facebook.

Gospel Artist Darlene McCoy Uses Beyonce’s Song To Put Pastors On Blast

Oretha Winston, Lead Editor — Sun, 19 May 2013 01:34:55 +0000

“Since you stole our money how about we press charges and call the IRS”

Now that’s funny!

Make sure to watch: Lexi Presents “Mary Mary The Real Truth” [WATCH]

Pastors We Know And Love

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Donnie McClurkin On Twitter Asking For Our Prayers

Donna Schiele — Sat, 18 May 2013 18:01:33 +0000

Was on twitter yesterday and saw this tweet from Donnie McClurkin:

It says, ” Dr. found that a cyst on my left vocal cord burst damaging the cord. My singing is strained and hoarse. I’m concerned but trust God! Pray 4 me!

And we will Donnie! We know you are the HEALED manifesting your health!

Season 5 Sunday Best Finalist Danetra Moore Signs Deal With Tyscot

Oretha Winston, Lead Editor — Fri, 17 May 2013 14:34:25 +0000

Sunday Best Season 5 Finalist, Ms. Danetra Moore has signed with Tyscot!

A resident of Atlanta, Georgia, Danetra is no stranger to the entertainment world. Her repertoire includes background vocal contributions, songwriting, acting, and modeling. Moore’s multiple gifts have led her to share the stage with artists such as Ledisi, Angie Stone, Marvin Sapp, Fred Hammond, Donald Lawrence, Kirk Franklin, Neyo, Kierra Sheard, Trace Adkins, Byron Cage, Jonathan Nelson, Ann Nesby and more.

Read: ‘Faith Against Cancer’ Concert Announces Performances By Earnest Pugh, Vickie Winans and Stephen Hurd

Her impressive vocals and drive have also helped to open doors of opportunity in television as well.

Some of her most recent appearances include: The Jay Leno Show, VH1’s Behind the Music with Neyo, TV One’s R&B Divas, BET’s Sunday Best, The Monique Show, Allstate Gospel Superfest, the Trumpet Awards and more.

Donald Lawrence Celebrates 20 Years With Star-Studded Live Recording

Oretha Winston, Lead Editor — Thu, 16 May 2013 02:12:30 +0000

Grammy® Award-winning Gospel superstar, songwriter and producer Donald Lawrence will kick off a star-studded live recording from his home base in Chicago on Tuesday, June 18th for the first part in his much-anticipated two-volume 20th Year Anniversary album, Donald Lawrence 20 Year Celebration Volumes I & II. Celebrating 20 years for the musical trailblazer since releasing his first album with the Tri-City Singers, a host of diverse performers will join Lawrence for this milestone live album recording of Volume I, including CCM star Natalie Grant, the legendary Karen Clark-Sheard, Kierra Sheard, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Coko (of SWV), DTP Records’ soul singer Rudy Currence, Faith Evans, Lalah Hathaway, Kelly Price, Ted & Sheri, Bishop Hezekiah Walker, Lawrence’s backing ensemble The Co., and dancing to Lawrence’s tune “Beautiful Feet” superstar director/choreographer/dancer Laurieann Gibson.

Read:‘Faith Against Cancer’ Concert Announces Performances By Earnest Pugh, Vickie Winans and Stephen Hurd

Taking place at Lawrence’s longtime Chicago-area home church – Dr. Bill Winston’s Living Word Christian Center – the prolific artist and his special guests will fill the stage with an inspiring evening of fresh, rousing performances on beloved hits such as “Say A Prayer for Me,” “Mighty God” and more, in this free live recording. Marking the first collaboration between Lawrence’s production company Quiet Water Entertainment and eOne Music in their partnership, the long-awaited 20-year celebration album will mix new music and fan favorites, with Lawrence’s live recording for Volume II to take place back in Charlotte, NC with the Tri-City Singers and other guests at a later date.

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Gospel Greats

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‘Faith Against Cancer’ Concert Announces Performances By Earnest Pugh, Vickie Winans and Stephen Hurd

Oretha Winston, Lead Editor — Thu, 16 May 2013 01:43:37 +0000

Urban Roundup Entertainment presents the first ever Faith Against Cancer Gospel Concert. This inspirational event is more than just an ordinary concert, as it will be an uplifting night of encouragement, entertainment and Faith for those affected directly and indirectly by this devastating disease. Faith Against Cancer’s purpose is to raise cancer awareness within the Faith-Based Community and to help find a way to control this fatal disease. All are welcome to come enjoy the show and be informed of what increases cancer risks and its effects. Bring your family, friends and loved ones who may be battling cancer to receive God’s support and love as they go through this difficult time in their life.

“When someone is diagnosed with cancer, their Faith is usually what helps them continue to move forward. That’s why I want us all to come together so that we can put our Faith Against Cancer. I’ve lost six people that were close to me as a result of cancer within the past five years, therefore, I want to raise awareness of the disease. My goal is to help raise funds for cancer research and provide a monetary contribution to assist patients,” says Khalif M. Townes, CEO/President of Urban Roundup Entertainment.

Read: Top 5 Gospel Songs 2013

The Most Celebration Of Gospel Photos You’ll See Anywhere

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First Look: The Pace Sisters: “Secrets Kill” [WATCH]

Oretha Winston, Lead Editor — Tue, 14 May 2013 14:45:22 +0000

Iyanla Vanzant helps members of an acclaimed family of gospel singers, who perform as the Pace Sisters, address the root causes of their lifelong struggles with weight. The clock is ticking as Iyanla tries to uncover what is weighing them down—mentally and physically.

There are 8 sisters Latrice, Dejuaii, Melonda, June, Leslie, Phyllis, Duranice, and Lydia. Their sister is superstar gospel artist Lashun Pace!

In 2011, DeJuaii Pace, the daughter of a preacher and member of the Anointed Pace Sisters has revealed to the Root her sexual orientation as a lesbian, the fact that she is a virgin and her struggles with food addiction. You can read that here: A Gospel Singer Slims Down & Comes Out.

On the outside, the group seemingly has it all yet on the inside, the Pace family has struggled with a lifelong battle with weight. The family of a total of 10 siblings have been all challenged with weight loss and at age 54, their only brother, Murphy Pace passed away.Long after taping Iyanla’s show, The Pace Sisters’ journey continues as they work to maintain their weight-loss efforts. Latrice and personal trainer Lorenzo Everhard, started the “Weight Release Challenge” which encourages a healthy, safe weight loss process.”Just Believe” is available on iTunes and Amazon.com today. A new album is expected later this year.

Watch the trailer:

Make sure to watch:

Gospel Greats

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Tyscot Music Signs Ruth La’Ontra

Oretha Winston, Lead Editor — Thu, 09 May 2013 15:53:11 +0000

Tyscot Music & Entertainment has been celebrating musical wins since the top of 2013 and the excitement continues with its recent signing of its newest artist, Ruth La’Ontra (pronounced la-on-tra).

At 20 years of age, Ruth La’Ontra hails from North Carolina and is full of life, energy, spirit, music, not to mention tremendous vocal talent. The daughter of Pastor Arvetra Jones, Ruth La’Ontra has been prepped for musical greatness since the age of 2.

Read: Legendary Vocalist Keith Staten Signs Major Deal

Ruth La’Ontra is a worship leader, singer/songwriter with a unique and versatile vocal style, eager to deliver a fresh sound as a Tyscot artist. Upon instant hearing, it is apparent that she is equipped with well rooted vocal abilities.

Tyscot Music & Entertianment’s President Bryant Scott expressed his excitement about the future of Ruth La’Ontra, “Ruth La’Ontra is a young, energetic, worship leader and songstress. The world will be amazed by her talent and anointing. We welcome her to the Tyscot family of artists.”

Her journey has just begun and Ruth La’Ontra is looking forward to a great future with the Tyscot family. She shared her excitement on the recent signing: “It was all a dream at first but April 29th my dreams turned into my reality, I’m very happy to be a part of the Tyscot family!!”

Ruth La’Ontra is currently in the studio working on her upcoming project and fans can look forward to frequent updates of her musical journey!

Take a listen to her covering ‘Take Me To The king’

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The Most Celebration Of Gospel Photos You’ll See Anywhere

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Legendary Vocalist Keith Staten Signs Major Deal

Oretha Winston, Lead Editor — Tue, 07 May 2013 14:45:49 +0000

Riverphlo Entertainment, CEO / President Luther “Mano” Hanes announced signing legendary vocalist Keith Staten to the label.

As part of Gospel music history, Keith Staten who has not released a project in 15 years will re-enter the music scene with this new deal with Riverphlo Entertainment. The powerhouse singer is currently in production on the all-new album, which is yet untitled and is expected to be released later this fall.

“This is a great day for our Riverphlo team,” said Riverphlo President, Mano Hanes. “Keith Staten is not only one of gospel’s most distinguished voices but is a true worshiper. As one of my biggest influences, Keith helped shape the sound and legacy of the great gospel group Commissioned. I am truly humbled and honored to help shape his solo career.”

Read: Alexis Spight Up Close: Use Your Tech For Good

A Detroit native who grew up singing in his father’s church, Staten is established as a cross-cultural praise and worship leader with magnetic energy. Staten is a true worshipper and many know him as the co-founder and lead singer of the incredible band Commissioned. He reunited with the group in 2002 at the famed and much talked about Commissioned Reunion event and nationwide tour.

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