VGN Bae Music is a music label that's also blessed with its own studio, the VGN Bae Studio. The label has a roster covering a number of genres including, Gospel, R&B, Latin, and more. This label, based in Houston, Texas, is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the gospel community with its quality artists, in-house producers, and go-to background vocalists. Hard at work, they have dropped EPs, singles, and albums in 2022. So, we're dedicating this month's report to a few of their artists.
Nakitta Foxx He Kept Me EP
Nakitta Foxx is a singer that has captivated many audiences with her multi-faceted vocal delivery and ability, range, scatting, and mouth-dropping squalls. She can be heard guesting on so many gospel albums that it's hard to count, while also serving as a worship leader at Fountain of Praise Church--Pastors Remus and Mia K. Wright--in Houston, Texas.
We have been waiting for her to release another solo album. She whets our appetites with her EP, He Kept Me. "He kept me" has been her mantra for several years. And it makes so much sense that she'd use it as the title for her latest release.
This six-song EP is packed with gems that showcase Nakitta's vocal ability and taste in music. She doesn't want to be put in a box. "Only What You Do For Christ" starts off as a smooth jazz offering filled with horns, piano, and the upright bass walking down the scales. Nakitta just shines.
At the midway point, the tempo speeds up to become a swinging good time accented by the doo-wop vocal styling of the background singers. "Give Me Jesus" showcases Nakitta's jazzy vocals. Although the song's clearly gospel, jazz enthusiasts would surely enjoy it, too. Harry Connick Jr., get Nakitta on one of your albums or live performances.
Nakitta does her "sho nuff sangin" on the reprise "Only What You Do for Christ," reminding us of what we do for Christ will last. She treats us to a modified, but still powerful version of gospel singer Rodnie Bryant's "We Offer Praise."
Anthony Hall, co-label head of VGN Bae Music and VGN Bae Studio, is an eclectic artist who brings his own vibe to gospel music. He likes to dress in several colors and gives a high-energy live performance while bringing music that would rival only gospel greats Deitrick Haddon and B. Slade. However, the singer with the soft texture to his voice is a force to be reckoned with.
In May 2022, Anthony Hall went on a mini tour, The Road to Roosevelt Tour with Urban Gospel legends, Dawkins and Dawkins, and Gospel singer, Pastor Jason Nelson. Leading to this year's Stellar Awards week, Anthony performed at various showcases. He is generating more buzz for his already released album, Roosevelt. It's Urban, R&B and funk with a Gospel message.
Seeing the title, "Altar Call," one may envision a slower song that could be used during a pastor's invitation for salvation. Nope. Anthony's "Altar Call" is a funky jam session--the guitars and bass shine--inviting others to experience the God that makes him dance. The heat continues with the New Jack Swing-styled, "Thank Ya," and the affirming "Better."
You cannot listen to this album and leave in a bad mood. Midtempo pop offering "See You Again" has Anthony Hall singing as the Prodigal Son and his dad. It is a cool interpretation of a Bible parable that holds so much relevance in 2022.
Check out these other songs from the album. The remix to "Loving Me," featuring artist David Starks on talk box. "Ode to You (featuring artists Deejay Lowery and Dwayne "DW" Wright)" is another highlight. Roosevelt is a celebration, and Anthony Hall is taking this celebration to the masses. Stream Roosevelt on Spotify or purchase on Apple Music.
Tatiana Barnett "Lay it Down"
Tatiana Barnett is a singer/encourager/worship leader/background vocalist who is another gem in the VGN Bae Music family. She has released a few singles in the last few years, including her latest, "Lay It Down." Layered with stacked background vocals, "Lay It Down" has a handclapping, foot-stomping style a la quarter music.
I love the verse when Tatiana says, "When my life gets too heavy/I forget how good You've been/Remind me I'm not on my own/when I feel close to the end/If I can just get to You/If I can get close to You/I need to get to You/I can be free." These lyrics are real, candid, and relatable. You can identify with her desperation to give things to God when life's circumstances can sometimes cause temporary amnesia in terms of remembering the God who never changes. Her adlibs are tasteful, yet passionate. Tatiana's soprano vocals drive this song home.
