Linda ‘Chocolate’ Berthier – In The Way

In The Way

Linda ‘Chocolate’ Berthier added to her increasingly impressive repertoire with the release of a single In the Way on Thursday April 29, 2010. In the Way is an infectious R&B/HIP-HOP hybrid. The starlet’s stage name comed from her smooth, ebony complexion and ‘sweet’ voice, which she has been honing since the age of 5. A voice that makes your heart and makes your soul soar. She won the prestigious award for Best Jazz Single, for her single “Feeling the Vibe” at the 2008 St. Lucia Music Awards. Now in 2010, “Feeling the Vibe” has been nominated for the Best Jazz Vocal Performance of the Year at the ultra prestigious Marlin Awards, where she picked up another nomination – that of Calypso/Soca Performance of the Year for her Single “More of You”. Chocolate is widely known for accurate and spicy background and vocals for various artistes such as Junior Tucker, Ron Kenolly, Sean Daniel, and Emrand Henry. She has boldly and creatively graced the regional and international stages, alongside artistes such as MaryMary, Deitrick Haddon, Donnie Mc Clurkin, Helen Baylor, Chevelle Franklyn, Isaac Blackman, Papa San, DJ Nicholas, Stitchie, and Jamie Thomas (MVT Tempo), just to name a few. She has hosted the Marlin awards (www.marlinawards.com), Bobby Jones Gospel Industry Retreat as Radio Host (Hollywood, Fl.) and the world premiere St. Lucia Jazz Festival main stages. Chocolate is hands down one of the top local gospel artistes in St. Lucia. This versatile young artiste also delves into the television medium. She is presently the host of the ‘Choice ACT II Movie Family Series’ on Cable Tv and took on a role in St. Lucian director Mathurine Emmanuel’s third film “Nanna’s Paradise”. Chocolate sites some of her earliest influences as Whitney Houston, Cece Winans and Chevelle Franklin.

CHOCOLATE IS THE WINNER OF “BEST JAZZ SINGLE” AT THE ST. LUCIA MUSIC AWARDS 2007.

HAS BEEN NOMINATED IN THE CATEGORIES OF “JAZZ RECORDING OF THE YEAR” (SONG- “FEELING THE VIBE”)

AND “CALIPSO/SOCA VOCAL PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR” (SONG – “MORE OF YOU”) AT THE MARLIN AWARDS (CARIBBEAN GOSPEL MUSICA AWARDS IN BAHAMAS) 2010.

MYSPACE.COM/LINDACHOCOLATEBERTHIER

FACEBOOK.COM/CHOCOLATESALIVE

TWITTER.COM/LINDACHOCOLATE

Gospel News –

K-Drama Signs with Cross Movement Records — Congratulations to K-Drama who has just signed with hip-hop powerhouse label Cross Movement Records. The Cincinnati, OH based rapper is best known for his recent hit “Air Jordan”. The first release through this new partnership is titled We Fit: The Workout Plan, featuring guest appearances by Sean Slaughter, D-M.A.U.B., Humble Tip, and CMO. The new album is in stores on August 10, 2010

Here I Am, the latest release from Marvin Sapp, celebrates its fourteenth week atop the Billboard Top Gospel Charts. In addition, the release sits at #13 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Charts and #66 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums charts. WOW Gospel 2010 maintains the #2 position this week. Get Ready, the debut release from Forever Jones comes in at #3, while Hezekiah Walker & LFC‘s Souled Out takes the #4 position. Still from ‘s The Transformation jumps a whopping thirty-five places to #7, while the new release Life from Beckah Shae debuts at #17

Info – Gospelflava

UK Gospel – New Artist Joel Brown

In an era dominated by computer-generated beats and ‘AutoTune’ overkill, here comes a project that re-introduces the sound of home-grown, hand-picked, freshly squeezed soul music. Joel O’Neil Alastair Brown, one of the UK underground’s most exciting newcomers, releases his highly anticipated debut, Satisfaction Guarant’d.

The five-track EP (produced by Marho Ovie-Bateren) promises a few special surprises and something for everyone. Five tracks might not sound like a lot, but this EP really proves that good things come in small (digitally downloadable) packages.

With Satisfaction Guarant’d, Joel aims to make it known that true and lasting satisfaction is only guaranteed through a purposeful and intimate relationship with God. The intro track is a teaser of what is to come when Joel’s full album is released later in the year. The second track, ‘Wait on the Lord’, is a re-working of a familiar hymn. This is where old school meets new school, with guest rapper Sayo ‘Mighty’ Martin throwing down a hard-hitting eight bars of heat.

‘Can’t Help But Praise You’ is an amazingly feel-good track featuring an instrumental piano solo from producer extraordinaire Marho Ovie-Bateren. The fourth track, ‘Born to Worship’, is a reflective, introspective song that challenges the listener to consider the purpose of their existence. And finally, we have a stripped-back, heartfelt song of intimacy between man and his Creator, simply titled ‘Speak a Word’.

Satisfaction Guarant’d will be available for digital download online from www.joelbrown.co.uk and stores such as iTunes and Amazon MP3. A CD hardcopy will also be available from www.joelbrown.co.uk

Gifted Urban Contemporary Gospel Artist, TolumiDE, Drops Highly-Anticipated Project

Industry buzz surrounds Award-Winning Nigerian Canadian Songwriter
CD Release: TolumiDE Album Launch Party!!
Sunday, May 30th, 2010 Time: 4pm – 6pm
Busboys @ 14th & V (2021 14th St, Washington, DC)

TolumiDE (pronounced toe-LU-mee-day) is one of the newest artists to embrace the urban contemporary gospel genre.  With a style that is uniquely hers and a ministry that can’t be compared to any current artist of the day, she’s forging her own path in inspirational music.  Making her way to the U.S. by way of Nigeria and Canada, TolumiDE’s sound is a mixture of urban, world, soul, funk, reggae, gospel and, of course, African rhythms, all rolled up into one.  The recipient of the 2009 African Heritage Award for Outstanding African Artist is dropping her first full-length project entitled My Love on Tuesday, May 25, 2010. The project is being distributed nationally by Edmondson Communications, Inc. and is available in Christian bookstores and online sites including Amazon.com, iTunes and CDbaby. The artist will be officially releasing the project at Washington, D.C.’s hot spot Busboys & Poets (2021 14th Street, NW, Washington, D.C. – 202.387.7638 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              202.387.7638      end_of_the_skype_highlighting) in the Langston Room at 4:00PM EST. She will be sharing live cuts from the new release and attendees will be able to purchase CDs and have them signed by the artist. The industry has already been abuzz about the singer’s lead single, “My Love”, a funky, infectious pop and urban tune about the artist’s relationship with the Lord. The single’s video, directed by Tayo Abereoje for Black Royal Pictures, has also caught the attention of fans and gospel industry insiders alike with thousands of views on countless video websites. Throughout the twelve tracks, all penned by the artist herself, TolumiDE bares her musical soul and takes the listener on an emotive and telling journey of her life and her Lord. Songs like the catchy “More Than You’ll Ever Know” and the slick “What I’d Like To Be” are winners. “More Than You’ll Ever Know” is a relaxed track about true love and “What I’d Like to be” takes you by the hand with its captivating hook and memorable melody. The Washington, D.C.-based artist has been blessed to perform at Blues Alley, the Vancouver Jazz Festival, the Toronto Jazz Festival, the Nigerian Entertainment Awards, FestAfrica, the Canadian Reggae Music Awards and other prestigious events. She’s excited about the new project and feels that her fans will love it as well. “It’s Gospel Soul and Afro-pop CD with a unique blend of sincere lyrics and invigorating music that fuses African and Western elements,” she explains. “It’s definitely a good world music mix with elements of Reggae and Jazz.”

Juanita Bynum signs new deal

Famed preacher and artist Juanita Bynum has signed both a recording contract and management deal with Matthew Knowles and Music World Entertainment. Earlier this month, Bynum released her latest effort More Passion. This deal sees her releasing another effort later this year titled The Diary of Juanita Bynum.

BET Awards

BET has announced its nominees for the 2010 BET Awards. Nominees for the Best Gospel Artist award include The Anointed Pace Sisters, Kirk Franklin Presents Artists United for Haiti, Tamela Mann, Marvin Sapp, and Vickie Winans. This year’s festivities will take place on June 27, 2010 in Los Angeles, CA, with Queen Latifah serving as the evening’s host. (

Sean C. Johnson >> “Well Done”

Playing Now on UGN Radio – London

SIMPLY SEAN…

Humble yourself, and allow God to shine through your God given talents.  Blessed with a talent for singing and songwriting, Sean’s journey up until this point has been nothing short of destiny being fulfilled.  Born in Tampa, FL to Seab and Althea Johnson, the family had to move around a lot due to Seab, Sr.’s service in the military.  But two things remained constant in the Johnson household… Church and Music.  On Saturday mornings The Winans, The Clark Sisters, Commissioned, or John P. Kee would serve as background music while Seab, Jr and Sean cleaned up the house.  Mimicking every adlib, and singing along to every song, these pioneers of gospel music served as Sean’s earliest influences.  Sean’s Grandparents exposed him to such gospel luminaries as The Dixie Hummingbirds, The Canton Spirituals and Sam Cooke and the Soul Stirrers.  He fell in love with the rich, soulful harmonies these gospel greats pioneered.

Originally just a hobby, Sean actually didn’t consider singing professionally until a friend heard one of the first songs he penned – “Still Holding On”.  The result is a fusion of old school Quartet harmony, mixed with a little Jazz, and neo-soul.  Destined to fulfill his purpose…Sean is just using the gifts he was blessed with, allowing God to receive the praise; truly becoming a vessel.

Simply Soul…

For Sean, soul music comes natural.  At first glance, one might not envision this 28 year old as a soul singer – no afro blowing in the wind and no “tortured genius” look.  He does, however, have his own unique vibe – an unsuspecting, strapping stature and compassionate demeanor that produces a tranquil and rich sound that like a magnet pulls you into his musical sphere.

Sean is doing his part to continue to make Soul music a vital part of the Gospel music genre.  “I think all genres need to be represented in Gospel music,” Sean suggests.  “Outside of regular worship service, gospel music you listen to should be like a buffet, something to satisfy every appetite.  With Soul music, it’s the same food, just seasoned differently.”  There are very few soul and neo soul gospel artist, but Simply A Vessel Vol 2: Faithful represents a rising presence of the ministry and sound of real soul and real ‘life music’.

Simply Faithful…

Simply A Vessel Vol 2: Faithful is a continuation of Vol 1 which was a transparent testimony for Sean.  Vol. 1 was a journal of his life and growth as a Christian.  Vol. 2 allows Sean to share more of God and His attributes.  “On this project, I just wanted to step out of the way and remain merely a mouthpiece He chooses to use at this moment,” explains Sean.

The word “FAITHFUL” pretty much sums it up…The GOD we serve is ridiculously FAITHFUL. That’s the message of the whole album really.  Never once has he failed to uphold HIS end of the deal…it’s us that fails Him.  So I wanted to use this album to point to that unwavering fact (that God is faithful) and to challenge us to be as Faithful to God as He is to us.

Simply a Vessel Vol 2: Faithful includes the single “Well Done” which is based on Matthew 25:21.  “Does Anybody” is a standout track with a lulling groove.  “I love the feel of that song and the way I arranged it,” says Sean.  “Plus the lyrics are real, in the sense that when I wrote it I was literally just sitting there thinking does anybody love God like I do…and if not, why wouldn’t you love this merciful God we serve?”  The project also contains a bonus track – “Fly Away”, the favorite classic hymn gone soul.

As artists continually work to be revolutionary and innovative as the music industry changes around them frequently, Sean is positioning himself as a mainstay in music. Sean works continually to perfect his craft and remains faithful in serving.

“I don’t think there’s anyone MORE creative or innovative than HIM,” Sean asserts. “So if we remain obedient and useful Vessels, I’m sure He will continue to pour into us.

Who do you want to hear more of on UGN Radio

Which gospel artist you like to hear more of on UGN Radio?
(polls)

Getting radio airplay on UGN – Janet Jackson

Why did get married too

41st Annual Dove Awards Nominees & Winners

2010 Dove Awards Winners & Nominees Male Vocalist of the Year

* Brandon Heath – WINNER
* Jeremy Camp
* Jason Crabb
* Michael English
* Donnie McClurkin
* Smokie Norful
* Bebo Norman
* Mark Schultz

Female Vocalist of the Year
* Francesca Battistelli – WINNER
* Karen Peck Gooch
* Natalie Grant
* Heather Headley
* Mandisa
* Dawn Michele
* Laura Story

Group of the Year
* NEEDTOBREATHE – WINNER
* Casting Crowns
* Gaither Vocal Band
* Hezekiah Walker & The Love Fellowship Crusade Choir
* Jars of Clay
* Skillet
* Tenth Avenue North

Artist of the Year
* Casting Crowns – WINNER
* Francesca Battistelli
* Jason Crabb
* Jars of Clay
* Mary Mary
* Skillet
* tobyMac

New Artist of the Year
* Sidewalk Prophets – WINNER
* Crystal Aikin
* Bluetree
* Jonny Diaz
* Kari Jobe
* Revive
* Brian Courtney Wilson

Producer of the Year
* Jason Ingram, Rusty Varenkamp – WINNERS
* Ed Cash
* Ian Eskelin
* Wayne Haun
* Bernie Herms

Rock/Contemporary Song of the Year
* “Lay ‘Em Down” – The Outsiders – NEEDTOBREATHE – Bear & Bo Rinehart – WINNER
Purchase/Download
* “Always” – Hello Hurricane – Switchfoot – J. Foreman
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* “Can’t Take Away” – MIKESCHAIR – MIKESCHAIR – S. Tinnesz, M. Grayson & J. Ingram
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* “How He Loves” – Church Music – David Crowder*Band – J. McMillan
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* “You Gave Me A Promise” – Unbreakable – Fireflight – D. Richardson, J. Cox, G. Drennen, W. Drennen, P. Shorb & R. Hawkins
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Pop/Contemporary Song of the Year
* “City On Our Knees” – Tonight – tobyMac – T. McKeehan, J. Moore & C. Barlowe – WINNER
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* “Free To Be Me” – My Paper Heart – Francesca Battistelli
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* “Let The Waters Rise” – MIKESCHAIR – MIKESCHAIR – S. Tinnesz, B. Glover & M. Grayson
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* “My Deliverer” – Freedom – Mandisa – C. Cates, J. Walker & T. Wood
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* “Until The Whole World Hears” – Until The Whole World Hears – Casting Crowns – M. Hall, B. Herms, J. McArthur & R. Glidewell
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Inspirational Song of the Year
* “The Only Hope” – Bebo Norman – Bebo Norman – WINNER
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* “Hold On To Jesus” – Live At Oak Tree – Austins Bridge – J. Rivers & J. Baird
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* “Hosanna” – You Deliver Me – Selah – B. Brown & P. Baloche
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* “Jesus Saves” – Jesus Saves Live – Travis Cottrell – T. Cottrell & D. Moffitt
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* “Since The World Began” – Glory Revealed II: The Word of God in Worship – (Matt Maher, Amy Grant, Ed Cash, Mac Powell) – M. Powell & T. Morgan
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Southern Gospel Song of the Year
* “Born To Climb” – Expecting Good Things – Jeff & Sheri Easter – W. Haun & J. Lindsey – WINNER
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* “Because He Lives” – Gaither Vocal Band Reunited – Gaither Vocal Band – William J. & Gloria Gaither
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* “If You Knew Him” – Almost Morning – The Perrys – J. Habedank & R. Griffin
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* “Life Goes On” – Life Goes On – Talley Trio – M. Funderburk & G. Boe
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* “Live With Jesus” – The Boys Are Back – Oak Ridge Boys – P. Kennerly
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Bluegrass Song of the Year
* “When We Fly” – Breaking Like Dawn – Little Roy Lewis & Lizzy Long – J. Lindsey, W. Haun & T. Herndon – WINNER
* “I Heard My Savior Calling Me” – Destination Life – Rhonda Vincent
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* “On The Other Side” – Brothers From Different Mothers – Dailey & Vincent
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* “This World Is Not My Home” – Ricky Skaggs Solo: Songs My Dad Loved – Ricky Skaggs – A. Brumley
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* “Working On A Building” – Mountain Soul II – Patty Loveless
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Country Song of the Year
* “Somebody Like Me” – Jason Crabb – Jason Crabb – N. Thrasher & M. Boggs – WINNER
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* “Dry Bones” – Live At Oak Tree – Austins Bridge – PD Arr by J. Rivers & B. Smith
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* “God Is There” – The Reason – Diamond Rio – M. Roe, J. Olander & B. Herms
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* “King of the World” – How You Live (Deluxe Edition) – Point of Grace – C. Morgan
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* “Thank God For Kids” – Every Light That Shines At Christmas – Ernie Haase & Signature Sound – E. Raven
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Urban Song of the Year
* “Close To You” – Still – BeBe & CeCe Winans – B. Winans – WINNER (TIE)
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* “Just Wanna Say” – The Power of One – Israel Houghton – A. Lindsey, I. Houghton, & T. Sims – WINNER (TIE)
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* “Avaylable” – The 2econd Coming – Kortney “Mali Music” Pollard
* “Just Love” – Just Love – Brian Courtney Wilson – B.Wilson, J. Williams & M. Spears
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* “You Never Let Me Down” – Image of a Man – Marvin Winans Jr – M. Winans Jr & R. Jerkins
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Traditional Gospel Song of the Year
* “Justified” – Smokie Norful Live – Smokie Norful – WINNER
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* “Always Remember” – Greatest Hits – Men of Standard – A. Crouch
* “Don’t Do It Without Me” – Don’t Do It Without Me – Bishop Paul S. Morton – Bishop N. C. Ellis, C. King, R. Lumpkin II, C. Poitier & N. T. Moss
* “How I Got Over” – How I Got Over – Vickie Winans
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* “Oh Happy Day” – Oh Happy Day – Queen Latifah – E. Hawkins
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Contemporary Gospel Song of the Year
* “The Power of One – The Power of One – Israel Houghton – Israel Houghton & Ricardo Sanchez – WINNER
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* “Awesome God” – Love Unstoppable – Fred Hammond – F. Hammond, A. “Snoop” Evans & E. B. Warren
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* “Dear God” – Smokie Norful Live – Smokie Norful
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* “Every Prayer” – The Power of One – Israel Houghton (f/ Mary Mary) – A. Lindsey, I. Houghton, D. Caddell & R. Sanchez
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* “So Good” – People Get Ready – Melinda Watts – M. Watts & F. Washington Jr
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* “Souled Out – Souled Out – Hezekiah Walker & LFC – E. Bullock & N. McNair
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* “Wait On The Lord – We Are All One (Live In Detroit) – Donnie McClurkin
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Worship Song of the Year
(Song, writer)
* “Revelation Song” – Jennie Lee Riddle – WINNER
* “Alive Again” – Matt Maher, Jason Ingram
* “Hosanna” – Paul Baloche, Brenton Brown
* “I Will Rise” – Chris Tomlin
* “New Song We Sing” – Meredith Andrews, Jason Ingram, Keith Everette Smith