Gospel Music, Urban Gospel, etc. is still alive and kicking. Pandemic, streaming, etc has definitely taken its toll on sales, but thankfully artists have stayed strong and faithful!
Fred Hammond
Ecstatic would be a word to describe the feeling of knowing more artists are going back on extensive tours after two years of sporadic appearances, innovative virtual concerts, and events. Fred Hammond is currently on his Festival of Praise with fellow artists Hezekiah Walker and Donnie McClurkin. Israel Houghton joined Fred on a few dates which was definitely a treat. By the way, Fred Hammond released an album, Sunday Morning Fred in November of 2021. Leading up to the release, Fred was showing a few songs on Facebook live for several Sundays. Reminiscent of the untouchable classic, Pages of Life - Chapters I & II, Sunday Morning Fred has live and studio versions of such songs as "Bless Your Name/I Will Bless The Lord", "Cover Me", "Right Where You Are" and more. If you slept on it, WAKE UP!
Kirk Franklin x Maverick City Music
In the spirit of unity and bringing Jesus to the masses, the anticipation has to be soaring for the upcoming Kingdom tour co-headlined by Kirk Franklin and Maverick City. Fresh off of their brief, but powerful GRAMMY appearance, Maverick City has probably gained a wide array of fans. Therefore, ticket sales should be going fast. It is almost too much greatness to handle especially since the multi-talented Jonathan McReynolds and Housefires will be a part of the tour as well. This is really happening!
Erica Campbell
Erica Campbell released the single, "Positive," a new spring and summer anthem. Rumor has it, her sister, Tina Campbell may be on the remix! Mary Mary together again! Please release an album soon, ladies! Kenny Lewis & One Voice invited THEE VOICE Kim Burrell along for the ride on the high-energy "Victory Remix." Hold on to your seat for this one. JoJo Martin released "Never Left Me Alone" last May, but this song is fire and deserves recognition. It is heavy with horns, produced by JoJo's mentor, PJ Morton, and features some clean background vocals.
Lashun Pace
Lastly, I want to pay homage to Lashun Pace who lost her life. Lashun was a legend in the Gospel music industry and touched many lives with her powerful soprano voice. She made a splash as a solo artist and with her sisters, The Anointed Pace Sisters. One thing that was always true about Lashun, she believed in living for God above all else and she had a major bond with her family. She leaves behind her only daughter Aarion, her seven sisters, and countless nieces and nephews.
Dwayne Lacy is a long time History teacher in Houston, Texas. He also has a passion for diversity in unity in music and in the church.
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