root magazine - issue 12 - august/september 2012

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ISSUE 12 AUG/SEPT 2012

Steve and Marjorie Harvey are Making A Difference

Urban Soul Cafe’s Indie Picks

VASHAWN MITCHELL

FAME, FASHION, GROUPIES,

MARRIAGE & WHY HE IS CREATED 4 LIFE

AFTER TRIUMPHANT

EXCLUSIVE MEET YOUR NEW

KING’S MEN DONNIE,MARVIN, ISRAEL

& KIRK

PASTOR RIVA TIMSPICKS UP THE BROKEN PIECES

Regina BelleAngela Spivey

Byron CageForever Jones

PLUS

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IN THIS ISSUE

P .6 THE EVLOUTION OF VASHAWN MITCHELL

P. 11 STEVE AND MAJORIE HAVEY: MAKING A DIFFERENCE

P. 13 Regine Belle: Hiigher

P. 18 THE KINGS MEN

P. 19 RIVA TIMS: PICKING UP THE BROKEN PIECES

P.11

P.18 P.19

P.6

P.13

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ContributorsEditor In Chief- Hasan James

Senior Art Director- Samir Marfatia

ContributorsThomas WarrenChandra DealTakira AndersonJacqueline PierreMartin WilliamsAlex EllisAdrian WarrenCarlos Hale

PhotographyGary SaundersDon ScherrillDerek BlanksMatthew Vick Harry Hayes

StylingCarlton Spence for Style Evolution

Management Shawn Gibbs for The Firm Artist Management

PrintingShweiki Media

Although I am a relatively young man in my 30’s, I have a love for old school music. Growing up in the Baptist Church, as a child songs like “Soon and Very Soon”, “Highway to Heaven”, and “Stand Up for Jesus” were as common as the green hymnal book and the church doctrine were. I remember vividly the album cover where Rev. James Cleveland had on a white suit and a processed curl and the Southern California Community Choir standing behind him in what looked like a bed of clouds. Images like that are forever embedded in my head and that type of nostalgia is what connects us to great music.

The Gospel Music Workshop of America has been presenting the world with great gospel music for 45 years and artists like Kirk Franklin, Fred Hammond and Hezekiah Walker all got their start at G.M.W.A., when no one else would listen. Now all three are the biggest gospel stars on the planet, with platinum plaques and anthems that will stand the test of time. Gospel music is bigger now than ever before and with gospel artists like Mary Mary representing the gospel on reality TV with millions of adoring fans watching, it proves that mainstream America has taken notice.

In this issue of Root, we take an in depth look into the life of the Chairman of the Gospel Music Workshop of America, Bishop Albert Jamison, along with his beautiful family. The theme of this year’s conference is “Unifying The Family Through Gospel Music” and our readers will get to see first hand how one of the torch bearers of gospel music balances ministry, music and family.

We also got a chance to sit down with “Mr. Nobody Greater” himself, Vashawn Mitchell as he opens up about his next project, what it felt like getting a street named in his honor and starting a family. Staying in the same vein of Praise & Worship, we caught up with the former “Price of Praise”, Byron Cage. You must read the interview to find out why he considers himself the former “Prince of Praise.”

Senior staff writer, Thomas Warren, spoke with two anointed women of the gospel- Stellar award nomi-nee, Angela Spivey and Grammy and Oscar award winner Regina Belle. While our newest contributor, Alex Ellis, covered The Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation Gala at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City.

We caught up with septuplet family group, Forever Jones, as they set the record straight about their sound, the lead singer of the group and their latest project, “Musical Revival”. It has been quite some time since we had a ground breaking gospel tour sweep the nation and it’s apparent that the fine people at Live Nation recognized the need for one, as they present the nation with “The King’s Men” tour. This tour features gospel’s leading men- Donnie McClur-kin, Israel Houghton, Marvin Sapp and Kirk Franklin and all of them took time out of their busy schedules to talk to little ole Root!

Last year as I was at the airport on my way to Tampa for G.M.W.A., I received the tragic news that Pas-tor Zachery Tims had died. Nine months after his untimely death, I got a chance to speak candidly with his ex-wife, Pastor Riva Tims, about her new book, When It All Falls Apart (Charisma House), what she really thinks of Pastor Paula White and Zachery Tims final days.

I hope you are just excited about reading this issue as we were putting it together. Hit me up on Facebook and Twitter and tell me what your favorite story is. Another issue down and countless more to go!

Stay Rooted!

Hasan

Facebook: Root Magazine and Robert Hasan JamesTwitter: @RootMagazine

"The theme of this year’s conference is “Unifying The Family Through Gospel Music” and our readers will get to see first hand how one of the torch bearers of gospel music balances ministry, music and family."

THE MUSIC THE MESSAGE THE MINISTRY

SMOKIE NORUFL ANITA WILSON MYRON BUTLER

SHERI JONES-MOFFETT

VASHAWN MITCHELL

INTRODUCING PASTOR CHARLES JENKINS& FELLOWSHIP CHICAGOTHE HIT SINGLE “AWESOME”

EMI WELCOMESTasha Cobbs & Keith “Wonderboy” JohnsonNEW ALBUMS COMING SOON

FOREVER JONES

emigospel.com

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THE MUSIC THE MESSAGE THE MINISTRY

SMOKIE NORUFL ANITA WILSON MYRON BUTLER

SHERI JONES-MOFFETT

VASHAWN MITCHELL

INTRODUCING PASTOR CHARLES JENKINS& FELLOWSHIP CHICAGOTHE HIT SINGLE “AWESOME”

EMI WELCOMESTasha Cobbs & Keith “Wonderboy” JohnsonNEW ALBUMS COMING SOON

FOREVER JONES

emigospel.com

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Two years ago, Vashawn Mitchell was about to release one of the biggest albums (Triumphant) and songs (Nobody Greater) of his career. After reaching number one on Bill-board and at radio, multiple Stellar Award wins and a few Grammy nods, a street named in his honor, a new image and even newer sound, Vashawn Mitchell is at a new place in his life and realizes that he is Created 4 This.

Root: Most people have to wait until they are really old or dead before they can get a street named after them and you are in your 30’s and you already have a street named after you. What does that feel like?

VM: I said the exact same thing upon receiving that honor and I must say that it was a very humbling experience. The principal of my former high school said that this would encourage the next generation of young people to pursue their goals and dreams. If Vashawn Mitchell can get a street named after him, so can another young person.

Root: You have a new project coming out entitled “Created 4 This” and naturally it’s highly anticipated, especially com-ing off a record like “Triumphant”. What can we expect from this new project?

VM: I have evolved as a person, my ministry has evolved and my sound has evolved. I was telling someone just the other day that I cannot duplicate what God did with “No-body Greater”, but what I can do is build off of that sound. Regardless of culture, background, age or denomination, it is the same sound. I brought in some guest artists this time that helped me stay in the same vein of that particular sound. Kierra Sheard, Israel Houghton and Fantasia and Diane Barrino are all on the album and I believe that this album will birth the next sound that the world needs to hear.

Root: What will be the first single off the album?

VM: The first single is entitled “Turning Around for Me”. This song is my personal testimony because I have done a lot of traveling over the past couple of years and sometimes you get so busy doing the work of the Lord that you forget about the Lord. So one day God revealed something to me and he basically said “When you put me first again in your life then things will turn around for you.” People will look at you and think that because you have all of these awards and stuff that you don’t go through anything. I’m still struggling and I still have some issues and some doors still have not opened for me. I then had a revelation that it won’t always be like this and the Lord will perfect those things concerning me and sooner or later it will turn in my favor.

Root: Tasha Cobb recently did first LIVE recording and the project will be coming out under EMI Gospel and you executive produced it. Are you excited about this new venture?

VM: Anyone who knows me knows that Tasha is not only my friend but also my sister in Christ and we are joined at the hip. I know her sound and I believe that she is a gen-eration changer for the next phase of praise and worship. It is definitely a hit record, but more importantly, it is going to put a stamp on the next sound of this next generation of praise and worship, not only in the black church, but also in churches across the world. Tasha Cobb is an amazing singer and songwriter but most importantly she has a heart for worship and it is going to show in her music.

Root: Many people know you as this praise and worship leader extraordinaire. Do you listen to any music other than gospel?

VM: Yes I do. I take pride in listening to other genres of music and merging the genres of sound with the gospel message. I listen to artists like Chris Brown and Brandy is one of my favorite singers ever!

Root: Mine too!

VM: You can listen to Brandy all day long. I also like Drake. I listen to all music because it helps me evolve as a musi-cian and a connoisseur of music as well.

Root: I think people would be surprised to know that there are groupies in gospel music. I have been at concerts where women in the audience literally go crazy over you.

VM: (Laughter)

Root: What was one of your craziest fan experiences?

VM: Well, I am a worship leader of a church and a young lady joined the church, joined the choir and cornered me and said that God told her that I am her husband. I told her that the Lord did not tell me that (Laughter). She definitely had a little crazy on her because she was saying stuff on Twitter and Facebook. It actually got so bad that I had to get a restraining order out on her because if she ever said that I did something to her, it would be on me.

Root: WOW. That is serious!

VM: Yes it was serious. At first it was cool because I thought after she made that statement it would be over but once it escalated, I had to protect myself. I can do the Twitter and Facebook thing but once people come up in my personal space, it gets crazy.

Root: You have been going non-stop for the past two years and although you are relatively young, do you plan on start-ing a family anytime soon?

VM: If you had asked me that last year, I probably would have said no. Most recently I have been having these mo-ments and I feel like it’s about time for me to settle down. A couple of years ago I wasn’t ready; my credit was shot, I was all over the place and I didn’t know what I wanted. However, as I evolve, my desires and my needs change. I’m 35 years old now, so I don’t want to wait too late but I definitely think it’s time.

Root: You are known for having impeccable style. Who are some of your favorite designers?

VM: I love Gucci and Burberry. When I am rocking regular clothes I wear G Star and Play Clothes. My favorite jewelry comes from Neiman Marcus. I was never really into Prada but I purchased these new Prada shoes and I love them. I love clothes but I love unique clothes that you can’t find everywhere. I also bargain shop as well. I get a lot of my stuff from Neiman’s sale rack when it is 40% off (laughter). If I see something at Target, I just grab it and wear it and nobody will know that it’s from Target because it is all in how you rock it.

Root: What are some things that you can’t live without?

VM: My Macbook and my iPhone. Most recently I have be-come fascinated with Instagram! I also love TV shows like “Family Guy”, “Law and Order” and “House”. When I am on the road I set the DVR and I watch all of those shows to unwind when I come home. I absolutely love traveling too.

Root: Outside of the lights, camera, action and music, who is Vashawn Mitchell?

VM: Vashawn Mitchell is a dude that comes from Harvey, Illinois. Vashawn Mitchell is humble because he learned how to serve first. Many people see me and may think that I don’t know who I am when in actuality I do know who I am. I don’t have to act like who you think I am because I come under great leadership and I serve other people. Vashawn Mitchell is a business! I wake up everyday trying to figure out how I can further develop the Vashawn Mitchell brand on and off the stage. That’s who Vashawn Mitchell is!

T H E E V O L U T I O N O F V A S H A W N M I T C H E L LPHOTOGRAPHY BY DEREK BLANKSSTYLIST: RYAN WESLEYSUIT BY BURBERRY JEANS AND JACKET BY G STAR COURTESY OF STANDARD STORE OF ATLANTA

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Shameka Dwight – Lovelations

Shameka Dwight, a native of South Carolina, released her album, Lovelations, in December of 2011. This singer/songwriter stood out dur-ing Urban Soul Café’s Stellar Awards Weekend event. So what is Lovelations all about? “I’ve attached my life’s lessons, struggles, victories, questions, and epiphanies to simple melodies in hopes that they will touch the listener's heart,” says Dwight. “I want people to feel the music and identify with the lyrics. I’m striving to un-derstand this love story of a life that we’ve been given, and each day I’m learning to live in love.” If you are a fan of Chrisette Michele or Esper-anza Spalding, you will find that Lovelations has a similar vibe. Her music has been described as organic, refreshing, authentic, and meaningful. Shameka plans to release a live acoustic album/DVD version of Lovelations, which will feature new material and other indie artists. www.shamekadwight.com

Sean C. Johnson - Simply A Vessel, Vol 3: Surrender All

Sean C. Johnson is becoming the neo-soul voice of Urban Soul Café. Releasing his third project in April of 2012, Sean’s album topped the Soul Charts on Billboard. Simply a Vessel, Vol 3: Surrender All is a mix of the 70’s Soul era and contains some of the 90’s East Coast production. His album highlights what a life surrendered to God looks like. It's not always pretty, we stumble (Track #3 - Still Breathing), but he never gives up on us (Track #7 - No Never). We have to surrender every care to him (Track #2 - Surrender All), and continue to grow spiritually even when we face storms (Track #11 - Molasses). Sean wants people to primarily ENJOY the music, but to also be encouraged at the same time. He also wants listeners to walk away from this album motivated to walk in the grace that God gives us each day, as we focus on surrendering our lives to Him.http://www.seancjohnson.com

Patrick Dopson - Open the Heavens

Patrick Dopson, a native of Birmingham, re-leased his 1st solo album, Open the Heavens, in May of 2012. This album contains the hit radio single Keep Me. Many compare Patrick Dopson to Fred Hammond, but I prefer to say that he picks up right where Fred left off on his 2006 album Free to Worship. Patrick’s music can easily be replicated on Sunday mornings as he records simple worship songs that you can sing along with and also enhance the private worship experience. His goal while recording, was to present a lyrically focused album about Jesus Christ and not just "needy" worship songs. Pat-rick’s motivation was to go deeper in God and to initiate a movement centered around authentic worship. “I want albums 2, 3, 4, 5 and 12 to still be just as intimate, heartfelt and sincere as my first to maintain the balance between a worship-pers heart and artistic expression, he said. “ I eventually want to open my label to new artists whom I can pour all my passion into. I want a label that has more than a credible sound, but operates with integrity in this industry!” If you are a true worshiper, this is a must have album.http://www.oilonit.com

Daniel Johnson - You Make Me

Daniel Johnson’s CD You Make Me, was the most slept-on project in 2011/2012. Johnson is known for his vocals on a number of Israel & New Breed projects. After hearing his music on iTunes, I was glad that I purchased this project. Johnson's album has a LIVE studio sound with horns, Fender Rhodes piano and strings. The album highlights Daniel Johnson’s unique sound, a sound that is much needed in this industry. Some of the key tracks are Take Me Away From You, You Satisfy, Beautiful, Come Go With Me, and Livin' for Love. From lyrics, production and content this album is DOPE! www.danieljohnsonmusic.net

Urban Soul Café was formed in 2005 to create a social and positive environment for positive people and Christians to attend. USC has worked with and made platforms for over 300 major label and Indie label artists such as: Kirk Franklin, Fred Hammond, Marvin Sapp, Kim Burell, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Rance Allen, Dr. Bobby Jones, Lashun Pace, Deitrick and Damita Haddon, Lisa McClendon, Canton Jones, Mr. Del, Antonio Neal, Mali Music, J. Moss, 21:03, PJ Mor-ton, George Huff, Darlene McCoy, Stephen Hurd, Adrienne Archie, Yunek, Shei Atkins, Shon Loc, Sean Simmonds, V3, Myron Bulter, Take 6, Leon Timbo, Izzy, Lil Irocc, Zie'l, Trin-i-tee 5:7, Onitsha, Pettidee, Soul P, JR, Mark J, Shea Norman, Jai, Coko, Jaiven, Brittney Wright and GRITS.

A stage for Indie artists to be seen in front of major gospel executives, Urban Soul Cafe caters to the urban inspirational set with Spoken Word, Neo Soul, Jazz, Holy Hip- Hop and Contemporary Gospel. It creates a great atmosphere for networking amongst Christian singles, musicians, artists and music enthusiasts in general. Future goals include taking praise and worship to another level and infiltrating the world with Christ's message of salvation, good music, great fellowship and a dynamic time amidst the profane environment endorsed so frequently by the mainstream.

www.urbansoulcafe.com

About Urban Soul Cafe

Urban Soul Cafe Top Indie PicksBy Carlos Hale

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By Alex Ellis

On May 14, 2012, multi-media star Steve Harvey and CNN’s Soledad O’Brien Co-Hosted The Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation Gala, presented by the Screen Gems in an effort to support community change and mentoring. New York’s posh Cipriani Wall Street was the host venue for this stellar event. The air was filled with electricity as everyone settled into the breathtaking grand ballroom filled with extrava-gant decor and beautiful fuchsia colored orchids. Leaders in entertainment, sports, politics, and religion traveled from near and far to support this power couple’s impact on the next generation.

The grand affair honored BET Networks Chairman and CEO Debra L. Lee, director/producer Spike Lee along with his wife, best-selling author/activist Tonya Lee, Capital Preparatory Magnet School founder and CNN contributor Dr. Steve Perry, and Victory Junction founders/NASCAR icons Richard and Kyle Petty with The Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation’s Helping Hand Award for their work as forerunners in making last-ing impact in countless communities. The evening featured some of the most incredible entertainment. The legendary Dr. Bill Cosby performed a comedic routine that reminded everyone that he still has what it takes to stay on top. This year’s musical guest was a personal favorite of Marjorie’s: the incomparable vocal talent Rachelle Ferrell. Her performance generated a rousing applause from the crowd.

The Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation’s Helping Hand Award honors individu-als who make a measurable difference in the lives of young men and women, who raise the flag of social progress and serve as role models for today’s youth through their careers or philanthropic efforts. The gala’s proceeds benefitted The Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation’s cornerstone programs for young men and women: The Steve Harvey Mentoring Weekend for Young Men and the Girls Who Rule the World Mentoring Weekend. The Harvey’s created these dynamic programs with empower-ing, hands-on experiences that cannot be found in any classroom, to bring guidance to teenage men and women who often face social or educational issues with unmet needs that greatly impact their futures. The event raised a record breaking $700,000 in a single night.

Steve Harvey hosts “The Steve Harvey Mentoring Weekend for Young Men”, where he welcomes 100 teenage boys and their guardians from around the country to his ranch in Dallas every Father’s Day Weekend. In addition to mentoring teenage boys who are without fathers, the program’s success has also continued expanding with Harvey leading regional satellite mentoring programs, hosting 100 boys in New York, Atlanta, New Orleans, Los Angeles and other cities. Since 2010, Marjorie Harvey has hosted 100 teen girls in Atlanta each year during “The Girls Who Rule the World” Mentoring Weekends.

I have had the pleasure of working with Steve Harvey during the Mentoring weekend for the past three years. As a visionary, Mr. Harvey takes great pride in his polished appearance – a conviction we both hold dear to our hearts! The truth is, people will judge you simply based on appearance alone. So, I created an exciting session where I instruct young men on the importance and power of image. The session culminates with an interactive tie tying ceremonies where the adult male volunteers get to engage the young men on a one-on-one basis. Something powerful happens when a man speaks life and purpose into a young man while teaching him how to tie a tie. It never fails; I see young men come to the ranch with a hardcore persona and within three days they let their guard down, not wanting to leave at the end of the weekend.

The Manhood 101 session is always a crowd favorite. This session is a candid heart-felt, honest dialogue between Steve Harvey and the young men. It’s a no holds barred talk about what it really takes to be a man. The weekend is replete with accomplished men from varying genres, who have one thing in common: a heart to help shape these

young boys into positive men who will contribute to society.

Very few celebrities have the heart that Steve & Marjorie Harvey has for their founda-tion. They truly care about these young people and it shows. I encourage every adult to recommend your child or someone that you know that would benefit from a program like this. They will certainly come home changed for the better. For more information on how to apply go to www.smharveyfoundation.org.

Steve and Marjorie HarveyMaking A Difference

Bill Cosby

Debra Lee Richard and Kyle Petty

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Spike and Tonya Lee

Soledad O’Brien

Steve Perry

Steve HarveyMentoring Weekendend

Steve and Marjorie Harvey

Steve Harvey 2011 Mentoring Weekend

Girls Rule The World Mentoring Weekend

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Strength, Stamina, Endurance, Fortitude. These are all words that describe a champion. And when envisioning a champion, the images are typically of soldiers or athletes who stand victorious after a long and tiresome feat. Rarely, if ever, does one conjure the image of a demure First Lady when thinking of a champion. Regina Belle is a champion!

Her music career spans more than 25 years, a feat in and of itself given today’s music landscape. The Grammy and Oscar winner is a successful businesswoman, wife, mother and the First Lady of New Shield of Faith Christian Center in Atlanta, GA. With all of this in place, Regina was most recently faced with the most formidable challenge of her life. Read on as she shares her testimony.

Root: OK let me start by saying I am so excited right now!

Regina Belle: Ahh, thank you.

Root: No thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to speak with me.

Regina Belle: Not a problem at all.

Root: How have you been? I know you are hard at work promoting the new CD.

Regina Belle: Yes... I am in Ohio now doing some promotional stuff. The CD is called “Higher” and it was released on June 5th.

Root: That’s great. So now having released so many records over your career, do you still get excited?

Regina Belle: Absolutely. I am certainly excited about this project. If your mindset starts to turn and you are no longer excited or happy about releasing a CD, then you probably should find another avenue to work in.

Root: You are so right. I’ve listened to the first

single from the CD, ‘Make an Example Out of Me’. This seemed like a personal prayer. What was the impetus behind this song?

Regina Belle: This song comes from life experience. I’ve come through many things and most recently a health prognosis that changed my life.

Root: Can you share?

Regina Belle: Yes. Back in 2009, I kept having these headaches, really bad ones. I went in to see a few doctors and they explained to me that I had a brain tumor. At that moment, everything changed. You know when you receive news like this; you start to reassess your life. Do I have everything in place? Did I pay the insurance? What about my family? At that moment, everything starts coming to your mind. But I refused to lose faith in God. I believed that this would work for my good and for His glory.Now after two surgeries I stand before the people to sing “Lord Make an example out of me”.

Root: God is amazing!

Regina Belle: He is AMAZING! This experience influenced my whole approach to doing this project and to delivering the gospel. Music transcends lyrics; the life experience increases its value so that when you sing it, you’re present in it. On this project the music talks about who we serve and what we are made of. It conveys the message that God is a present help. You don’t have to drink away your problems, or think about suicide or try to be some-one else. God is always right there.

Root: How difficult is it to deliver music that was inspired by such a traumatic period in life?

Regina Belle: It requires touching a depth of you that is personal, but with the intentions that the listeners will see God in my life. It brings the listener into the song and into its importance to them. So

it is no longer just personal to me, but it becomes a part of them as well.

Root: Let’s talk about the project some more. Who did you collaborate with?

Regina Belle: On this CD, I worked with Lowell Pye and Kathy Taylor, both of whom I really respect. I also got to work with Shirley Caesar on this project. She is someone who I’ve admired for so many years. She is just a great person and I was so honored to have her share her gift on this CD. In terms of producers, I worked with PAJAM and Micah Stampley. And of course, my long time friend Chris Walker. Chris was my MD back in the day.

Root: How do you manage all of your respective responsibilities along with your music career?

Regina Belle: Well, I give everything its proper attention. I chose not to record in Atlanta. We recorded in Houston so I could dedicate my full attention to the music. In Atlanta it would be difficult to not be mommy (Laughter).

Root: Do you have a favorite song on the new album?

Regina Belle: I think they are all of my favorites for different reasons. “God Must Have Been With You” is certainly one that I relate very closely to.

Root: What’s next for you?

Regina Belle: Well I am in promotion mode right now. I have a number of appearances lined up. Of course I have a lot of interviews set up to let the people know that the project is out. But I am looking forward to sharing this project and my testimony with the world.

Regina Belle HIGHER

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As told to Thomas Warren

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Martin Williams and Jai at the Dove Awards.

Azusa The Next Generation: Photography by Gary SaundersMcDonalds Gospelfest: Photography by Don Scherrill

ROOT ON THE MOVE43rd Annual GMA

Dove AwardsBy Jacqueline Pierre

Atlanta, GA - The 43rd Annual Dove Awards graced the Fox Theatre, in the city of Atlanta, on Thursday April 19, 2012 and was a show filled with faith, praise and diversity. Co- Hosts David Mann, aka “Mr. Brown”, along with the “Queen of Clean”, Chondra Pierce, were the perfect hosts for the evening, mixing fun and faith. Grammy nominee and multiple Stellar Award winning producer, Aaron Lindsey, was the musical director for the evening and the show included outstanding performances from Angie Stone, Yolanda Adams and Crystal Lewis; who gave a heartfelt tribute to Whitney Houston. Other performers of the night included Lecrae, Donnie McClurkin, Natalie Grant, Mandisa, Jason Crabb, Jamie Grace, Ruben Studdard and Mary Mary.

Root correspondents, Jacqueline Pierre and Martin Williams caught up with big winners of the night, Kirk Franklin, who took home Dove awards for Contemporary Gospel Recorded Song of the Year— “I Smile” and Contemporary Gospel Album of the Year –Hello Fear and Hip- Hop artist, Lecrae, who won for Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year- Rehab and Rap/Hip Hop Recorded Song of the Year –Hallelujah.

McDonald’s® Gospelfest® 2012

By Hasan JamesRoseland, NJ – Gospel fever radiated from the New York Tri-State area on Saturday, May 12, 2012 at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. Out of over 80,000 people who auditioned, over 1000 competitors shared the stage with some of the biggest names in gospel music including Shirley Caesar, Donnie McClur-kin, Mary Mary, Fred Hammond, Vickie Winans, Cissy Houston and a special comedy set by Steve Harvey!

Root Magazine was on set to interview many of the competitors as well as celebrity attendees such as: Actor, Terry Crews and his family, News Anchor, Brenda Blackmon, New Jersey Mayor, Cory Booker and Whitney Houston’s brother, Gary Houston who asked that “the world continue to pray for his family.”

McDonald’s Gospelfest originated in 1983 under the auspices of the McDonald’s Corporation and the McDonald’s Tri-State Owner/Operator Association. Twenty-nine years later, it has emerged as the nation’s preeminent Gospel celebration, bring-ing joy, inspiration, encouragement and hope to millions of Americans. Previous McDonald’s Gospelfest participants have gone on to successful careers in entertainment, including the renowned Bishop Hezekiah Walker.

Bishop Hezekiah Walker contines the legacy with Azusa The Next Generation.

Jose Figeuroa - Adult Solo Winner atMcDonals Gospel Fest.

Joy Unlimited - Youth Choir winners at McDonalds Gospel Fest.

Bishop Noel Jones laying hands at Azusa.

Jacqueline Pierre & Lecrae after his two Dove Award wins

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Azusa The Next Generation

By Takira AndersonNew York, New York- The Bible declares in Acts 2:1 “And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place”. This was definitely the tone on Pentecost Sunday as Bishop Hezekiah X. Walker made history again by picking up the torch and hosting Azusa 2012, The Next Genera-tion. Believers from all denominations and all walks of life made their way to the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City to lift up the name of Jesus.

The Azusa Street Revival was a historical event that was created and led by William J. Seymour an African American Preacher on April 14, 1906. At a little location on 312 Azusa Street in Los Angeles, CA, the power of God fell mightily and there was a great explosion where miracles, tongue speaking and intense worship-ping was experienced by all who attended.

The Azusa Street Revival continued until 1915 when it seemed to have dwindled away only later to be picked up and carried on by Bishop Carlton Pearson in Tulsa, OK. People came in droves to witness the power of God through preaching and music. Souls were saved, people were filled with the Holy Spirit and lives were changed forever. This experience still lives on now that Bishop Walker has answered the call and has once again brought back the life and power of the Azusa Street Revival.

The Jacob Javits Center will never be the same as powerhouse preachers like Bishop John Francis, Prophet Brian Carn, Pastor Cheryl Brady, Pastor Kenneth Moales, Bishop S.Y. Younger and Bishop Noel Jones rocked the stage and each brought a profound Word from God. Prayer rooms were filled to capacity with souls who desired to be filled with the Holy Ghost, believers were baptized in Jesus name in the baptismal pool behind the main stage and the dynamic Azusa choir was led by none other than J.J. Hairston of Youthful Praise.

The day was electrifying; God came and blessed His people. Bishop Walker could not have picked a better day than Pentecost Sunday to host this amazing event. Lives were changed, and souls were won to the Kingdom, just as they were back at 312 Azusa Street 106 years ago.

2012 McDonald’s Gospelfest Winners

Gospel Rap “Che Che da Supastar” East Orange, NJPraise Dance Solo-Trio Isaac Zellner Freeport, NY Step Steppers With Class Poughkeepsie, NY Praise Dance Group Jah ‘Kev Prod. Performance Ensemble Winston-Salem, NCAdult Choir Greater Central Jersey Community Plainfield, NJ Choir Group Evangelist Barbara Daniels and Passaic, NJ God’s GiftSpanish Language Solo Denise Perez Bronx, NYAdult Solo Jose Figueroa, Jr. Bronx, NYTeen Solo Chaude Cymone Taylor Central Islip, NYYouth Choir Joy Unlimited Youth Choir Philadelphia, PA

Lacrae backstage at the Dove Awards.

Martin Williams and Jai at the Dove Awards.

Pastor Brian Carn Electrifies the crowdat Azusa The Next Generation.

Pastors Nathaniel Canada and Micheal Jones baptize parishioners at Azusa The Next Generation.

Vashawn Mitchell and The Azusa Choir.

Stephen Baldwin talks about new movie:Loving the Bad Man” at AzusaThe Next Generation.

Praise Dancers Latanya Ford and Francys Riggs move the crowd.

J.J. Hairston looks on as Crystal Aikin ministers.

Jose Figeuroa - Adult Solo Winner atMcDonals Gospel Fest.

Joy Unlimited - Youth Choir winners at McDonalds Gospel Fest.

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A Minute with Root Mag: It’s good to hear you name around the industry again.

Angela Spivey: I appreciate you saying that.

Root Mag: Tell us about your new project, “He Keeps His Promise”.

Angela Spivey: Yes, He Keeps His Promise. I think you know we dropped the single during Stellar

Awards weekend and it did very well, reaching #23 on the gospel charts. I’m just grateful to God.

Root Mag: Who are some of the writers and producers you worked with on this project?

Angela Spivey: Pastor Harvey, CEO of Innovative Records, he wrote majority of the

songs and then I wrote a song and Antonio Wimberly also wrote one. All of the songs are

great! Pastor Harvey, Antonio Wimberly and Etienne Porter produced the project.

Root Mag: The CEO of your label is totally excited about working with you and described you as “a hidden

talent”. Considering you have been in the industry for so long, do you feel like you’ve gotten you just due?

Angela Spivey: I believe that timing is everything and when God opens a door for you, you have to walk in it. I thank God for Pastor Harvey

because I’m doing things that I’ve never done before. I did the Dorinda Clark Cole show and Syrius radio all in a matter of a week so I’m really appreciative and grateful to God

for Pastor Harvey seeing what was needed in my career.

Root Mag: You are one of those artists that has been singing since you were a child, reared in the church and reared in the choir. What is your opinion on shows like The Voice, American Idol and Sunday’s Best?

Angela Spivey: I think it’s a good thing as long as we keep it in its proper perspective. I think if we’re going to say it’s for the church, then it needs to be for the church. I think we have to be careful when we walk the thin line because it’s a fine line. I like Sunday’s Best and I think we need to keep it because that represents church to me. We need to make sure it will represent the kingdom because you don’t want the world to become confused about what we’re doing. I think it has been a blessing to many people.

Root Mag: What are some of the pros and cons of the gospel music industry?

Angela Spivey: Wow! I think there are pros and cons. You just have to get around the right people because everyone who is talking about heaven aint going. As believers, we need the spirit of discernment because there are people that will come and con you out of all your money and then make you a spy and if this is what you really wanted or are anxious for then you’re going to fall for that.

Root Mag: We’re doing a documentary on the 50 Greatest Gospel Acts of All Time. Now you’ve been singing gospel music for a very long time, and I’m sure a lot people has influenced you, so if you could, can you give me your top 5?

Angela Spivey: I love Albertina Walker and The Caravans, definitely. Of course I came up on Reverend James Cleveland and Thomas Whitfield and Co. I use to listen to him and go back and teach the choir what I heard him do. I mean he crossed all his T’s and dotted all his I’s. I also love Walter Hawkins and the Hawkins family and Milton Brunson and The Tommies.

Root Mag: That’s a good top 5! Angela Spivey: [Laughs] Thanks.

By Thomas Warren

Angela Spivey and Pastor Harvey

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Picking Up The Broken Pieces

The last five years for Pastor Riva Tims has been traumatic enough for one person to throw their hands up and throw in the towel. However, the mother of four and pastor of Majestic Life Church in Orlando, Florida, is a survivor and an overcomer.

After a highly publicized divorce, the death of her ex-husband and the church she helped build turn their back on her, Riva Tims is finally PICKING UP THE BROKEN PIECES.

A Hasan James Interview

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Root: Pastor Riva, thank you for this opportunity to speak with you. I hear that the church you pastor, Majestic Life, is growing tremendously. How is everything going?

Riva Tims: Yes, it’s doing very well. The church will be three years old in October and we have about 400 members. God has just been blessing us.

Root: That’s great. My mother actually attends your church and she loves it! Tell us a bit about your book, When It All Falls Apart; tell us the premise of it.

Riva Tims: “When It All Falls Apart” is a book that brings insight to anyone; male, female or child, that has gone through a traumatic loss. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one prematurely, whether it’s the loss of someone through divorce, the loss of a certain job or whether it’s anything that creates a grieving process. The book actually walks you through how to properly grieve and how to properly maneuver through hurt and trauma.

Root: When you and your ex- husband, Zachery Tims, started “New Destiny”, you’ve been quoted as saying it was an “outreach ministry.” Would you label “Majestic Life” the same way?

Riva Tims: Our goal is not to be a church labeled by four walls. We believe we are the church and wherever we go we take it with us. We have long-term and short-term goals and our main objective for the last two years has been focused on building a foundation so when we do major outreach, people will be ready to receive them and be able to minister to them excessively, so yes we are definitely an outreach ministry.

Root: In the entertainment field we see the rise and fall of some many entertainers like Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston due to drugs. Why do you think things like this happen with pastors and men and women of God? Pastor Zachery Tims allegedly had issues with drug abuse and infidelity while still preaching the word of God. Why do you think that happens in the Kingdom?

Riva Tims: First of all, I think it’s going to happen anywhere, but the word says that we are to to “yield not unto temptation” and let it bring you down. The reason why it happens more often in the kingdom is because there is a lack of accountability. Too often we see major pastors have “yes men” surrounding them and they have no accountability to help them. Sometimes you think that you’re being supportive and that you’re being loyal by not questioning or not making sure that they’re covered properly but in actuality you are an enabler to their demise.

Root: Wow, I think that’s true. How are your children coping with the loss of their father?

Riva Tims: It’s been a process and they’re actu-ally still grieving. My children are very resilient, extremely strong and they’ve been holding on to the Lord. However, they’re still going through the grieving process because not only did they go through the loss of their parents divorcing, they also are grieving because they lost their dad.

Then again to live the legacy that their parents built as far as the way everything went down with New Destiny, it’s just been hit after hit after hit. My oldest daughter just graduated from high school and my youngest daughter graduated from middle school on her way to high school and the boys are doing fine. God has been keeping them. Root: Wow. Although you were divorced I know you still loved Pastor Zach, as he was your husband and the father of your kids. How are you coping with his sudden death?

Riva Tims: I am still grieving because it was a major blow to our family. Zach and I, as you stated, we were cool by the time he passed. We had already gone through the divorce drama, the anger, the pain and the bitterness and we were on our way to a healing place, so that’s why it’s even more devastating for us.

Root: How did you guys meet?

Riva Tims: We met in Maryland. I was going to UMBC (University of Maryland in Baltimore County) and he came to the church I was attending and the rest is history.

Root: Do you agree with your mother-in-law’s decision to keep his cause of death sealed? What are your thoughts on that?

Riva Tims: I did not agree with it because I don’t want some of those things to come up later and re-live that stuff all over again. In my opinion, it’s been better if everything comes out all at once, that way it could be over and done with.

Root: Can you explain what happened with Pastor Paula White and New Destiny when you attempted to go back and meet with the church and was rejected?

Riva Tims: That was very painful. I wanted to go back to help bring healing to the members. Many of them were reaching out to me and I was reaching out to them, then I was ultimately asked not to come back. They asked so many others to come in for the process but didn’t ask me. I wanted to meet with the board because basically that church is our four children’s legacy. I’m a founding member and the board refused to meet with me? For the record, I never asked to be the pastor again, I wasn’t coming back to do that, however, if they asked me I would have definitely done it whole-heartedly. I wasn’t coming to fight for the church to be the pastor, I was coming to make sure that the legacy remains in tact and whomever they decided to choose as pastor would be the right fit. However, I was completely excluded from that process.

Root: Now it’s a bit confusing to me because from outside looking in, you started this ministry with your husband, yet you were excluded from the entire process of choosing his successor. Is there anything in the bylaws that stated that you could have at least been apart of that process?

Riva Tims: Yes there were things in the bylaws that had allowed me to come back. I don’t know if you understand, but when you go through battle after battle after battle, you have

to be able to pick your battles wisely. I didn’t want to go and bring more pain and reproach on the Kingdom by causing a big fuss over that. I’m a proponent that God’ will is going to be done but I made a stance to stand up against the process and that’s why I stood and went back to the board because I had to fight for my children and for the members. I tried my best in that instance.

Root: Do you think Paula White is the right person to lead New Destiny?

Riva Tims: The fact that the board already stated that they wanted a married couple and from what their standards were, it wasn’t a fit for what they had set in place.

Root: Hmmmm, I see. Being married to a high profile pastor and having four kids, a mega church, a public divorce, dealing with infidelity and then the death of your husband and now leading your own flock, what have you learned over the past decade?

Riva Tims: I learned much more compassion for people and I learned that everything is not always what it seems; that you really have to walk by the spirit and not by flesh or by sight. Everything that glitters is not gold and I learned that God is real. What He said in his word is true and when you’re obedient and follow his plan, there is great success, but when you decide to veer off and don’t do according to His purpose and His will, there are consequences. For me, it’s been very sobering; I’m more in love with Him than I have ever been. My trials over the past several years have taught me what not to do and I have a healthy church because of what I have been through.

Root: A week before Pastor Zach passed, you and the kids went with him on vacation. I thought that was really honorable considering all that you had gone through and that you guys can be bigger people and still vacation together with the kids. Was there anything that was left unsaid between you and him?

Riva Tims: Nothing was left unsaid. I think that was the sovereignty of God that allowed us to have that time together because we are able to talk more during that trip. The girls, who hadn’t really had much time with him, got to spend more time with him during that trip. I think that if was anything left unsaid we were able to say it during the trip. Like I said before, we were in a very good place as far as out friendship when we went on our final family vacation. It was like old friends getting together. I even made little jokes and comments about his infidelity. We were in good place.

Root: So no regrets?

Riva Tims: No regrets. Of course you always want more time with someone you are close with. I always wish that I could have had more time with him.

Root: Well thank you so much Pastor Riva. Over the last eight or nine months have been watching you and you still serve with dignity and respect and I really appreciate that.

Riva Tims: Thank You.

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but we didn’t plan it that way. We just brought the ideas that the Lord dropped in our spirits together as a family and then finished it collaboratively”, said Dominique Jones, lead singer and writer of the group’s debut song, “He Wants It All”.

“He Wants It All” was a smash right out of the gate, eventually landing at the #1 spot at radio, along with garnering Grammy, Dove and Stellar nods. That song catapulted the group to major success and the lead singer was a breath of fresh air. When asked if she ever thought about going solo, Dominique Jones responds in a jovial manner. “That’s not an uncomfortable question for me to answer and actually I’m only one of the lead singers, but most people only know me because of the first single we released on our first album. But we’ve all talked about some of us having a solo career at some point; not after this album but after we feel like this part of our journey is done. I’ve considered it and I think its something I’d like to try after this season”.

As the family band travels from a jazz festival in New Orleans to another part of the country, everyone is happy go lucky and enjoying one another’s company. One can help but wonder if “Forever Jones” was apart of the plan. “To be honest I felt as a young man God wanted me to travel with our family band, but I thought it was with my siblings; we had a band before this. Once I got married and we had kids, God had another plan. I would say this was the dream but it doesn’t look like anything I thought it would be; it’s bigger,” says Dewitt. “It’s unbelievable because I’m singing with my family, my actual biological family that came from me. It just let’s me know that God is always thinking bigger than what we’re thinking.”

By Chandra Deal

Family groups have always been somewhat controversial, whether it is two people in a group or seven people in a group, there is always going to be a little bit of drama. Who is the lead singer? Who gets to write the material? Who is the favorite? Who sings better? Whether you are The Jackson 5 or The Partridge Family, there is always some type of dissension in the family. Or is it?

Forever Jones, like The Partridge Family, is a group made up of siblings and parents, something that has never been seen in gospel music. You can’t help but wonder who makes the final decision when it comes to things like their sound, wardrobe and business. “There are different leaders in the group that have emerged and we just allow them to lead. For instance, D’Jeniele’ leads as far as orchestration and things like that. All of the children have matured and they have a good sense of style. Dominique is the vocal director and she gives us all the parts and deals with all of the technical stuff. Everybody rises up and takes the lead and utilize all of their strengths. I am the deciding factor in terms of the final decisions”, said Dewiit Jones III, the father of the group.

Since Forever Jones made their national debut a few years ago, there has been some scrutiny as to whether the group is in fact a gospel group but the mother of the group, Kim Jones, quickly dispels any speculation. “We all grew up in the Church of God In Christ and we are aware that people hear different genres because each one of our children write and the sound is eclectic but we are absolutely a gospel group”.

The group’s latest project, “Musical Revival” is appropriately titled, as the sound is somewhat of a musical meeting, complete with various elements and genres all mixed together. “I’m proud of the album and how it came out. It’s very different from “Get Ready” and we knew it was going to be different

FOREVER JONES: IT’S A FAMILY AFFAIR

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After releasing over a half dozen successful albums, how do you approach making music at this point in your career?

One thing that I am really focused on now is listening to the style and the sounds of today and incorporating that into my music. I certainly don’t want to and would never change my message, but I’m aware that sometimes you do need the method to change. For a long time in Gospel music the drivers were mostly organ, drums and synthesizers; but now there is more acoustic guitar that brings somewhat of a rock and roll sound. My church songs, like “Good Anyhow”, are still very churchy; my praise and worship songs still have the same feel – I just add a little twist here and there. I really just try to stay in touch with the times, with what the musicians are doing and with singers and how vocals are being arranged today. Why did you name this project “Memoirs of a Worshipper”?

I named it “Memoirs of a Worshipper” because as I was sitting at home writing lyrics in my journals, I thought, “Wow these are great songs”. The songs are very heartfelt, very passionate and very personal. I was reading everything and felt that I wanted everyone to see where I am and what I’m thinking. I wanted to give everyone a very up close and personal look at my heart. With the emergence of Praise and Worship in churches and on the radio, do you feel like you are the architect of that particular sound, thus the moniker- “Prince of Praise”?

I will say this, there are several individuals out there - Israel Houghton; Darwin Hobbs; William Murphy; Martha Munizzi to name a few – who are incredible praise & worship leaders with their own, radio-friendly sound. I did not name myself the “Prince of Praise” – it was something that my Pastor called me when introducing me at a recording, and my record label liked it, marketed it and it just stuck. But I never called myself the “Prince of Praise” and I do not use that term at all now. I would say that, yes, there is a sound that I have been blessed to create and when you hear it on the radio, you know that it is Byron cage. But I am equally

blessed to be surrounded by other architects of praise and worship as well. What songs from your latest project “Memoirs of a Worship-per” are near and dear to your heart? “Gratitude” – I originally wrote this song for Fantasia to duet with me. When she wasn’t available, I used one of my singers who we call Mookie, and she did a phenomenal job. I wrote that song early in the morning (4 or 5 a.m.) I was in prayer, just thankful to God and I wanted to express that thankfulness. It was a conversation that I was having with God, just telling him about my gratitude for life, my gratitude for the opportunity to create music, my gratitude for the gift of His Son. I just wanted to express that. It was a real blessing to sit there and pen that song. Then I started writing “You.” I was very emotionally charged with God that morning! That song talks about “With all my soul, with all my mind, I give my body as a living sacrifice.” As believers we know we are in the world but not of the world, but we are still subject to the joys and the pains that life can bring. This song is telling God that YOU are the source of my life. Period. Even though there are special moments throughout the project, those two songs are definitely close to my heart. If you were not singing the gospel as a profession, what would you be doing?

I would probably be a pastor somewhere or a TV anchor. I was going to school to be a broadcaster and the Lord, along with my mother, switched that up! I loved music so much and my mother really encouraged me to pursue music. She brought me an acrosonic upright piano and I began playing – learning how to play by ear and then by notes and the rest is history. It has been a phenomenal journey!

As told to Hasan James

BRYON CAGEOPENS UP HIS HEART AND HIS NOTEBOOK

root magazine - issue 12 - august/september 2012

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