Honoring DMV's Greatest Gospel Musicians (Past and Present) Part 2

The DMV area is so blessed wiith innovators and trendsetters in the area of Gospel Music. In the last blog, I explored the "creme de la creme" of Gospel Musicians in the Washington DC Metropolitan area. I'm back with part 2 because there are some others that I would like to recognize as well. As always I am sure this list is not complete but it's thorough. Let's get started!

1. William Hubbard

    

William Hubbard is the writer of one of the most popular Gospel /Praise and Worship songs of all time, "I Love You Lord Today", which was originally recorded by The Edwin Hawkins Music and Arts Seminar Mass Choir and has been and continues to be one of greatest Gospel Musicians the DMV has ever seen and heard. William came from a musical family as his mother was a musician in her own right. He is not only a great Gospel Musician and songwriter, but his expertise also reaches into the realm of musical theater. William Hubbard has never allowed the trendiness of Gospel Music to narrow his eclectic musical genius as he continues to write music that will stand the test of time. Hear his version of the 23rd Psalm: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1WO8_8fuUSg

2. Warren Jones (Far left in picture)

                                           

  

Musician, singer, songwriter Warren Jones is a a quiet storm in the DMV area. He is nationally known for his producing both Gospel and R&B artists. Warren also penned a very popular worship song recorded by The Potter's House Mass Choir entitled, "Majesty" some years ago. Warren has all of the "intangibles" as they say in sports.  He can do anything as it pertains to music. Despite his demanding career as a producer, he is still a church musician. One of the humbling facts about Warren is that he is not a mega church guy. He works with and ministers in places that most big named musicians wouldn't even consider, and he is to be commended for that.  Warren is also one of the founding members of a very popular Gospel band in the 90's called Gideon Band and a gifted drummer as well..  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5A4d9rMjIU

3. Mike Smith

I've had the pleasure of knowing and working with this monster musician for many years now. Mike Smith is a musical tactician and a Stellar nominated producer. Mike Smith knows how to play and produce music. He was my co-producer and a writer on my last project, and has worked with many DMV artists in helping to make their dreams come true.  A native of State College, Pennsylvania, Mike moved to the DC area not really knowing a lot about the inner workings of how to play Gospel Music, but he had a ear that developed him into the phenomenal musician he is today. He is now the Minister of Music of the Jones Tabernacle Baptist Church in Baltimore, MD, and well respected and noted by many as a great musician and songwriter.  

4. Nate Fields  

You cannot be a musician in the DMV area, and not know who Bassist Nate Fields is with his high pitched voice. Nate plays the bass with reckless precision as he has graced so many recordings in the DMV area with an unmistakable foundation. Nate is somewhat of a pioneer with his uncanny ability to ad lib while still holding down the foundation in a song. Nate is also the Minister of Music of Redeeming Love Christian Center in DC where his father is the Pastor. Here's a clip of Nate playing the bass along with Warren Jones(Piano) and Mike Smith (Organ). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hfQlMXaQpw

5. Jay Williams (J.J.)

J.J is a pioneer and mentor to so many in the DC metropolitan area and abroad. He is one of the greatest drummers in America, and we have been blessed to hear him in the DC area for over 20 years now. Jay Williams is the lead drummer at Reid Temple A.M.E. Church in Lanham, MD, but his resume far exceeds the limitations of Gospel Music. He's helped so many artists in many other genres of music as well and continues to tour as needed. J.J. is not only a great musician, he is a great person. He is one of the best session drummers I have ever seen.  He's also a family man, and comes from a musical family. His father, the late Judge Williams Sr., was also well known in our area as the Minister of Music at the Isle of Patmos Baptist Church in DC.. See J.J. with Marcus Johnson https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEsN4lAVCs0

6. Daryl Hunt

One word.... Musical Genius

I have never worked with Daryl Hunt before, but I have seen and experienced his work. There is really no one like him in our area. He writes, arranges, and plays like tomorrow may not get here. Daryl is very educated and knowledgeable in not only Gospel Music, but he is a wizard in orchestration. He has written and/or arranged songs for R&B artists as well. He is a humble man with a vision to educate young people. Hear his rendition of Richard Smallwood's "Lord's Prayer" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4nkPI4qwDAQ

7. Justin Savage

 

When you mention the name Justin Savage to anyone who plays Gospel music, their eyes begin to light up because the man is simply amazing. He is a trendsetter and a student of music. Justin has graced many national recordings, and is the Assistant Minister of Music at the Mt. Ennon Baptist Church in Clinton, MD.  The DC area first heard of Justin through his amazing performance and production of Jonathan Nelson's first project that he did in Baltimore, MD.  It was like a Sunday School lesson, Justin had changed the game. His style was refreshing and many in our area have adopted his way of approaching piano playing. Justin has mentored many musicians, and continues to play and produce for many across the USA.  Justin is a great singer as well. Check out his latest single.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCoP21FGGVE

8. Reger Smith (Ross Smith)

Ross Smith is one of the proteges of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church who branched out to do so much more in the Gospel Music scene in the DMV area. Ross is not only a bassist, but he is a musician's musician. Ross is currently on staff at the First Baptist Church Of Glenarden in Maryland and Capitol Hill SDA Church in DC.  I likened his playing to that of Mark Walker. He has a very clear and concise sound. I have never seen Ross unprepared for an event or service. He is now a staple in the Gospel Community as a reliable bassist and a person of integrity. http://video.search.yahoo.com/video/play;_ylt=A2KLqIMlA1tR6CUAbBP7w8QF;_ylu=X3oDMTBrc3VyamVwBHNlYwNzcgRzbGsDdmlkBHZ0aWQD?p=Ross+Smith%2C+bass&vid=4c272f2f7a813cbae8d778cf89a2024e&l=9%3A41&turl=http%3A%2F%2Fts4.mm.bing.net%2Fth%3Fid%3DV.4649934432633319%26pid%3D15.1&rurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DN2qqSultBfA&tit=CHC+Church+Praise+and+Worship&c=1&sigr=11a5j8veh&age=0&fr=yfp-t-900&vm=r&tt=b

9. Melvin Bryant

When you talk about virtuoso pianists, Melvin Bryant's name has to be on the top of the list. Melvin Bryant, the Assistant Minister of Music at the Alfred Street Baptist Church, in Alexandria, VA, is a well informed, well educated minstrel who can make anything talk on the black and white keys. He is also a recording artist having released an album of his own in 2003. Melvin is also a great teacher and friend to many in the DMV area. Melvin is an active participant and contributor in the National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses. He lends a hand when he can and is very humble about the gifts that God has blessed him with.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5LQP-tbzyBA

10. Stephen Key

Arranger, songwriter, singer, minister of music, and music transcriber Stephen Key leaves no stone unturned in the field of music. He is a well sought after musician for his accuracy in interpreting music as the artist would prefer it. He has played for many on the biggest stages the DMV area has to offer. He has his own group, Steve Key and Company.  Steve Key & Company has performed in several European music festivals including the1998 North Sea Jazz festival at The Hague in Holland, where the group performed before standing room only audiences.  The group remains committed to spreading the gospel in song whenever called upon. Stephen is also well sought after for his music transcription services. His turn around time is unbelievable in getting music back to his clients. He hails from a musical family, is well rooted in the DMV area, and is well deserved to be on this list. http://www.stepkeymusic.com/gpage1.html



Honorable Mentions- 
Mike McCoy- Great gospel musician and teacher.
Carlton Burgess- Great teacher and mentor to many in the DMV area
Jimmy Russell- Who taught and mentored so many in the DC area.
Terrell Graham- He is one of the longest tenured drummers at one church in the DC area . The 1st drummer I ever saw in the DC area using and MPC back in the early 90's.
Michael White- great singer, musician and songwriter
Paul Avery- musician with unlimited musical ideas
Jamal Moore- Who is now probably the most sought after session drummer in the DC area
Bob Terry- Guitarist
Alvin White- Guitarist
Damon Grey- Just a monster musician and a great musical support to many.

Honoring DMV's Greatest Gospel Musicians (Past and Present) Part 1

I have the pleasure of meeting, experiencing and playing with some of the greatest musicians known to man. Every city/area has its local heroes. These people change the way we think and approach different aspects of music and not just Gospel.  In the DMV (DC, MD, VA), we've been extremely blessed with some of the greatest Gospel/Church musicians on this side of the earth. They help make singers, producers, and preachers sound and look good. Some are heroes who have never truly been recognized, and many do not know. It is my attempt through this blog to celebrate our local musicians who have set standards for music and music production in this area. There are many common denominators among this distinguished group. The first is the variety of musical styles that they studied to get where they are now. Secondly, most if not everyone on this list has traveled abroad to perform. You will never experience true musical joy until you have traveled and perform in other countries where the appreciation level is through the roof. Thirdly, church was the training ground for all of these artists. Those who are still living are still playing on a regular basis, but don't allow churches to hinder their ability to share their gifts to the world. I know for sure I did not get them all, but I think this list is a great conversation starter. (This list is in random order)

1. Richard Smallwood

Most of us already know that Richard Smallwood is one of the greatest musicians in American History much less Gospel Music.Those of us who live in this area have an extra blessing of seeing and hearing him more often. His style and approach to playing and writing has changed the lives of so many musicians and singers. Any musician, especially in the DMV, who cares about music is really careful to interpret Richard's music as accurately as possible in their playing and in their teaching to their respective choirs and/or groups. In other words, we don't want to get it wrong. One of the little known facts about Richard is that he has been and still is very faithful to his church.

2. Henry McKenzie Davis

Many do not know or never heard of Henry Davis. OMG. You need to watch this video of him and Richard playing a duet before we move on. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eyl0WahDJs0 .  Although Henry moves in and out of the DMV area, many know him as the master musician. His ideas and piano versatility is unmatched. He can take a hymn and make the words speak to your heart through his fingers. I was blessed to play with him at the Gospel Music Workshop of America one year and that was one of the joys of my life.

3. Dr. Pearl Williams Jones (1931-1991)

She died before I had a chance to meet, her but thanks to my late piano teacher, Alton Street, I was exposed to the genius of Dr Pearl Williams Jones. Hear a one minute clip of her playing and singing "We Shall Overcome" https://soundcloud.com/royalhighnessrecordings. I wish there was more that I could expose to you. Dr. Jones was the chief musician at the Bibleway Temple of Washington where her father, the late Smallwood E. Williams, was the founder and Pastor.  She influenced the lives of so many musicians both Gospel and Classical. As with Richard Smallwood and Henry Davis, she was also a virtuoso pianist.

4. Rev. Andrew Blues Webb

Anyone who knows about drummers in the DC area has heard or played with the great Blues Webb. Blues has toured with many Gospel and secular artists. He is a trailblazer with his disciplinary approach to music. One would be hard pressed to find Blues outside of a pocket; however, if called on to showcase his skills, he doesn't disappoint. Blues has undergirded a slew of Gospel artists and churches in the DMV area with his consistency. I have never heard an unkind word spoken about Blues and his integrity  He is one of those quiet masters of his instrument. Blues Webb is a legend in the DMV area and abroad. We salute you Blues!!

5. Anthony "Tony" Walker

Talking about someone under the radar! One of the greatest musicians I have ever seen in this world is Mr. Tony Walker. Tony Walker is one of the awesome musicians who has traveled for many years with Richard Smallwood. He also travels with secular recording artist Ledisi on a regular basis. In addition, He is a musician at the Zion Baptist Church in DC. Tony is a quiet storm with whom a lot of musicians do not know. He is a chief musician of the highest order. He can play anything and any genre. He is also a well sought after producer. Here is a clip of Tony playing "Shackels" in a live performance: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JAxYyBAVno. One can learn a lot from his humility as God has exalted him in so many ways.

6. Mark Walker

Speaking of Walker's, Bassist Mark Walker is a playing phenomenon. There is so much to be said about Mark Walker that it could take up this whole blog. Mark plays at Great Mt. Calvary Holy Church in DC, and has traveled across the world with a number of well known artists. He is not only a great musician, but a great person. Mark is a family man and a mentor to so many young musicians. He is also not afraid to speak his mind as it pertains to music and worship and that is rare in this climate. We in the DC music community hale Mark as one of the greatest, if not the greatest bass player in the area. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mckLl27XjBc

7. P.J. Morgan  

Anyone who can sit down and battle the great John Peters is worthy of being in this blog. (see video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mckLl27XjBc) P.J. Morgan is the Music Director and the director of the Male Chorus at the Reid Temple A.M.E. Church in Glendale, MD. For years, P.J. has blessed many churches, artists, and musicians with his playing, ideas, and production. P.J., like so many great musicians, has his haters and musical critics, but no one can refute his musical ability and creative genius. Like others in this blog, P.J. has been an amazing support to so many artists in the DMV. He also has musician videos that one can purchase to learn some playing and improvisation techniques. In other words, P.J. can make music come alive in a unique way. He is now back in school taking music classes to further his musical education. In this business, you should never stop learning. When you do, you cease to be relevant. On a side note, I had the pleasure of playing on a recording (Myrna Summers) in 2005 with P.J., and I must say, I had to go back to school again so that I could hang.

8. Aaron Spears  

What can we say about Aaron Spears other than the fact that he is awesome! I remember seeing him at the GMWA in our early years shocking everyone with his playing every time he got on the drums. Aaron is very aggressive, and his playing is not for those who cannot hang musically. If you are lacking in musical ability, his playing will overtake you.  He is one of the greatest influences on this current generation of drummers in the U.S.A. and in the DMV. Here is a video of him playing "Caught Up" by Usher at the Modern DrummerFest http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xh3-s4lEW3w. Aaron still plays in church when he is not on the road, and is always willing to share advice with others who look up to him. Aaron is one of the greatest drummers the DC area has ever seen.

9. Minister Stephen Hurd (http://www.hurdthewordmusic.com)

Stephen Hurd is a man well-known for his passion for Praise and Worship across the country. But few know that Stephen was a school teacher and church musician before he rose to critical acclaim as an artist. Stephen Hurd is and has been an inspiration and teacher to many across the DMV area and abroad. While Deacons were still leading devotion in most of our area churches, Minister Hurd was the conduit of change introducing the new concept of Praise and Worship music and the ideas of free flowing worship atmosphere that comes with it. In the early years of his music ministry, Hurd was blessed to have one of the greatest church bands known to man (Mark Walker, Blues Webb, Mike McCoy, and P.J. Morgan) while he was serving as the Minister of Music at the Gibbons UMC in Brandywine, MD. Presently,  Minister Hurd serves as the Minister of Music at the First Baptist Church of Glenarden, and continues to gives artists and musicians opportunities that they would not normally have.

10. Rev. Nolan Williams

It was hard for me to write this list without including the Rev. Nolan Williams. He is a master at what he does: teaching, arranging, writing, or just simply playing a hymn on the piano which is my personal favorite. If you have never heard Nolan play the piano, then you are missing a treat. Nolan is the former Minister of Music at the Metropolitan Baptist Church in Washington, DC, and was also one of the chief music editors of the African American Heritage Hymnal of which many churches across the country currently use. Rev. Williams has branched out to do more than just church music. He has served as music director for many occasions of national significance including 2012 and 2013 performances at the White House kicking-off its annual celebration of African American History Month and the dedication ceremony for the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr National Memorial. He is also the founder/director of the Voices of Inspiration. Nolan is definitely an inspiration to many. Rev. Williams is also well known for pinning the Praise and Worship song "Hallelujah Amen".

11. Rev. Donald Vails (1948-1997)

Master teacher, organist, pianist, and Gospel Artist, the late Rev. Donald Vails was a major influence on many artists in the DMV area. Many people don't realize the extent of Donald's musicianship. You could walk into Ebenezer A.M.E. Church, where he was the Minister of Music until his death, and catch Rev. Vails either directing or playing the piano, the Hammond B-3, or the Pipe Organ. Whichever instrument he graced, you could feel the anointing coming from his hands as he played and sang. To this day, I have never heard anyone play the Hammond B-3 like Rev. Vails used to play it. I remember watching him play the shout with both feet on the Hammond. WOW! He was truly unique. Many are aware of Rev. Vail's great recordings as a Gospel Artist, but he was also an unbelievable musician who influenced the lives of so many DMV musicians such as Stephen Hurd, Patrick Lundy, and Mike McCoy just to name a few.

12. Tim Linzy (Deceased) 

Although I never got a chance to meet Tim Lindsey, I got to understand who he was through some of the other bass players in the area. Here is a quote from Mark Walker about Tim: "First, he was a great brother who personally encourage me, and made me feel I could play with anyone. Second, he was dedicated to helping others fulfill there visions and dreams by playing on so many local demos and projects and some of the local projects never came out. Third, he was someone who left a mark on musicians everywhere, speaking and greeting all known and unknown musicians and singers at concerts and events. Can't tell you how rare that was back then for well known musicians to be friendly! Fourth, he traveled and ministered with one of the greatest Gospel groups of our time: Richard Smallwood and the Smallwood singers. I think everything else speaks for itself!"

13. Pastor Michael Reid

For years, Pastor Michael Reid has been a force in the DMV area. Pastor Reid is best known for his rendition of the great hymn, "Even Me", that many recordings as well as church and college choirs have adopted as their gospel anthem across this country. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7YRicVifJs . Pastor Reid has served in several churches, and had some of the most successful Gospel Music workshops in the DC area. It was through his tours of duty that he gave many musicians and directors, including myself, the opportunity to teach and minister in front of larger audiences. Pastor Reid also pioneered the idea of church consulting of which many, including myself, are now doing which enables a person to operate more than one church Music Ministry at a time. Michael is an inspiration to many. I wish I could tell his whole story. but that's for him to tell in his upcoming book. Pastor Michael Reid is now the Pastor of Redeemed Christian Fellowship in Capitol Heights, MD.

14. Patrick Lundy   

Patrick Lundy moved to this area to attend school at Howard University as a Music Business major and the city hasn't been the same since. Patrick is the founder and director of the Ministers of Music which is now an institution in the DMV area. They have withstood the test of time while others have downgraded their choirs to groups. Patrick has worked with and has given many the chance to experience excellence in Gospel Music under his tutelage. Patrick got his start in the area at Ebenezer A.M.E Church under the direction of the late Rev. Donald Vails. He now serves as the Assistant Minister of Music at the Reid Temple A.M.E. Church in Glendale, MD.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRnY3X7eqlM

15.  Dr. Lucille Banks Robinson Miller (1911-1998) 

This list would not be complete without this great woman of God. There is too much to be said about Dr. Miller so I refer you to what was written about Dr. Miller from the Honorable Eleanor Holmes Norton which explains it all.
http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?r105:E31JY8-488:

16. Kenneth Louis 

Kenneth Louis is a true pioneer in the DMV area. Kenneth is well known as a performer, lecturer, composer, and arranger. He is the first graduate in the United States with a Bachelor of Music Degree in Ethnic (Gospel) Music Studies (1992) from the University of the District of Columbia, and is the Dean of Black Catholic music liturgy. He has mentored many up and coming singers and musicians in the DMV area. He's known for writing the popular gospel song, "Jesus You Brought Me All Of The Way". He also coordinated the music for the Pope's last visit to the DC area which was held at Nationals Stadium. He is truly a musician among musicians. Here's a performance of the song oversees.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PkplAG_xjrY

17. Dr. Robert J. Fryson (1944-1994; Far right in picture)

Known for writing one of the most popular gospel songs of all time, "God Is",which was recorded by James Cleveland in 1979, Dr. Fryson was an inspiration to many across this world. He was a musician, writer, singer, and a master songwriter. You could often catch Dr. Fryson with his acclaimed group, Voices Supreme. His music is included in the African American Heritage Hymnal and in other publications. The Robert Fryson I knew for a brief period of time was a humble man who took the time to speak and work with others.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GauUHGDiTXk

18. Dr. Wesley A. Boyd (Died in 2009)

School teacher, mentor, choir director, minister of music, former Richard Smallwood singer, scholar Wesley Boyd encouraged many young people in the DC area to excel in all forms of music. He was a master teacher, and had a profound impact of the culture of Gospel Music in the DC area. I had the privilege of working with him at the Kennedy Center for a concert with the Washington Performing Arts Society Children of The Gospel. It was there that I learned of his brilliance as a musician and a teacher.  He's Dr. Boyd performing with Richard Smallwood at the White House.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ipj2EjuDcjc

19. Minister Isaiah D. Thomas 

Well known producer, singer, songwriter, and Minister of Music Isaiah Thomas has been in the Ministry of Music for quite some time. He currently serves as the Minister of Music of the Macedonia Baptist Church in DC, and has inspired many through his music and his ministry. Isaiah is best known for his songs: " I Will Bless The Lord", made famous by Byron Cage (I still like the original version better), "God Said He Would Be With Me", and "The Greatest".  Isaiah has set a new standard for production in the DC area, and has inspired many producers and musicians indirectly to raise the level of musicianship when it comes to recording and releasing albums.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ho9S-Kb6LIc&playnext=1&list=PLpElum0aIHFaU12ruHI5eHS5GJBnbwdSZ&feature=results_main

20.  Myrna Summers 

Rounding out this list is none other than Myrna Summers. A musician in her own right, Myrna has an unique way of singing, directing, and interpreting music. She is best known for her radio hits: "God Gave Me A Song" and "Uncloudy Day", which was recorded live at the Refreshing Spring C.O.G.I.C. in 1982. It goes without saying that Myrna is and has been an inspiration to many and she's not only a pioneer in the DMV area, but across the nation. Myrna currently serves as the Minister of Music at the Reid Temple A.M.E. Church in Glendale, MD.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-XbkAGuA9U


Peace,
Phillip Carter
 

"My Top Ten Heroes In Gospel Music In the Washington DC Area"

This is my opinion but I want you to know it's an educated and informed one.

It's been a while since I have written a blog but I promise I will be more active in 2013. I have studied and been apart of the Gospel Music scene here in the DMV for a long time. There are a lot of influential people here in the DMV who also influence the national scene as it Gospel Music However there are only a few, who I feel,  who spend the majority of their time trying to help others while also advancing the exposure of Gospel Music to the world. In our area, which is one of the top markets for Gospel Music, there are those who are national influences as it relates to Gospel Music but they may not fall into the local "Hero"category. I want to focus on those persons who make the world go-around for not only the artists but also for church folks who may or may not be exposed to the national Gospel Music scene. Here are my local Gospel Music heroes in the DMV.

1. Sarah Hearn- DC Gospel Music Examiner

Since this beautiful spirited women has come onto the local Gospel Music scene, artists in this area have experienced a revolution in publicity and exposure. She writes about local and national artists in the DMV area and abroad. Sarah makes an attempt to come to as many programs as she can and she writes accurate articles about what she sees, hears, and experiences. She is not only a writer, but she is also a missionary. I was touched to see her traveling to Africa doing missions. In an area controlled by Radio One and mega churches, she has been a breath of fresh air.  http://www.examiner.com/gospel-music-in-washington-dc/sarah-hearn

2. Henry Harris- SpiritCo1 and Excellence In Christian Music Awards

Henry Harris has devoted a number of years in the local national Gospel Music scene through his service with the Stellar Awards Gospel Music Academy and his Internet radio station SpiritCo1.com. Henry Harris has helped both local and national artists reach their goals by educating them on the ins and outs of the music industry. Henry's greatest accomplishment to date is his development of the ECMA (Excellence In Christian Music Awards). This is not your average awards program. It recognizes those who go through a somewhat challenging curriculum focusing on various topics related to the Industry of Gospel Music. Participants in the ECMA program have to listen or log onto weekly webinars to receive training from experienced industry professionals. All of the participants who complete the training modules and complete the courses receive an award at the annual award show.  Mr Harris is also a radio promoter and seeks to help local artists receive a national presence on the Gospel Music charts.

Excellence In Christian Music Awards-  http://www.smpecma.com/
SpiritCo1.com-  http://spiritco1.com/

3. Archbishop Alfred A.Owens and Co-Pastor Susie Owens- Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church

I know many of you are surprised by this one, but Bishop Owens is on this list for one super major reason. He has opened up the doors of Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church to many local and national artists on a weekly basis. Unless something special is going on at the church, he allows artists to come through and minister to the large and supportive congregation at the GMCHC. Most Pastors of mega churches only allow the well known artists to grace there pulpits and/or people they know pretty well but Archbishop Owens and his congregation are "STARS" for their open arms in the Gospel Music community. There are many other churches who also support artists in the DMV but GMCHC has to be one of the biggest ring leaders in support. Special thanks to Henry Harris for helping to facilitate the scheduling of artists at GMCHC.  http://www.gmchc.org/cn2008/main.asp

4. Kenny Taylor-Promoter 

If you don't know Kenny Taylor, then you are not getting out of the house much if you are a Gospel Artists in the DMV. Kenny has been an invaluable asset to the Gospel Music community in the DMV and abroad. He has helped the careers of too many artists to name. He is really a" jack of all trades" as it pertains to what he does in the music industry. He is also an accomplished musician and arranger. Kenny is one of those industry professionals who will tell you the truth and offer you his unbiased opinion about your career. He, like Sarah Hearn (mentioned above), will come to any program they can possibly make to support you. Thank you Kenny for all that you done and continue to do for so many. https://www.facebook.com/kenny.taylor.1232?ref=ts&fref=ts

5. Jacquie Gales-Webb - 96.3FM WHUR, Washington, DC

Ms. Webb is the host of Sunday Morning Joy on 96.3FM on the campus of Howard University Washington D.C. She has used her show to enhance the careers of so many local and national artists. She is to be congratulated for her many efforts to fit DMV artists in on her show via airplay and interviews. Though I must say that her most redeeming quality is her sweet spirit. She treats everyone the same and that is with the love of God. She is an accomplished professional in radio and she is the voice of Washington D.C on Sunday mornings. https://www.facebook.com/jgaleswebb?fref=ts

6. Paris Hollis- Recording Engineer and Former Owner of Studio House North

Although Studio House North has closed its doors, I cannot write this blog without recognizing the enormous impact that STN and its owner Paris Hollis has had on this area. Paris mixed, mastered and co-produced many award winning projects in the DMV area and abroad. His advice has saved a lot of artists from utter failure in the marketplace and on radio.  Although Studio House North is no more, Paris is still available to aid and assist local and national artists who need a quality mix and experienced production advice.  https://www.facebook.com/parishollinsjr?fref=ts

7. Andrea R. Williams- Tehillah Enterprises, LLC

Andrea R. Williams has been a HUGE blessing to so many artists in this area who were ignorant to what publicity actually is. Her work with various local and national artists in this area has exposed them to the national and international scene. She is definitely one to know and secure if you are trying to gain some publicity for your projects. http://www.tehillahent.com

8. Mt. Ennon Baptist Church- Pastor Delmon Coates, PH.D.- Minister of Music-Gerald Smith
 Music Director- Justin Savage

This is another great heroic church who supports just about anybody who wishes to make an impact in the DMV area. Located in Clinton, MD, they recently hosted the DC Gospel Artist Alliance DVD recording in September 2012. They take in artists on a regular basis unless they have something special going on at the church. Their generosity and hospitality towards artists is unmatched not to mention that they have one of the greatest music departments in this area. Pastor Coates encourages the congregation at the church to support the local artists and they respond every time. This church has blessed so many of us in the DC area and they are true heroes already. Any artists who has ever been there can verify what I am saying.

9. Tracy Morgan- Tracy Morgan Radio Show- WBBP Memphis, TN

For many years, this young lady has impacted the lives of many local and national artists. Tracy Morgan is a legend here in the DMV.  Tracey has supported local and national artists with her presence and spins on the radio. When Tracy was on local radio in the DMV, she played everyone who had a quality product in which, I believe, helped propel her show to #1 in the DMV area. Now she hosts her own radio show which is being aired on WBBP in Memphis, TN. Now she is exposing artists nationwide with her radio show.  Tracy has been supportive of local and national for over 15 years in the DMV area.  https://www.facebook.com/tracy.morgan.167527?fref=ts

10. Simone Henry, Kevin James - CJB Radio

CJB Radio has been a beacon of light for many artists in our area and a force to be reckoned with across the country. They host listening parties for artists when they release their albums and they have a dedicated listeners across the world. Owner Simone Henry, and her trusty sidekick, Program Director Kevin James, has created a small empire on internet radio. They have helped to validate internet radio locally and across the country. Their programming is on the level of any terrestrial station across the country. Don't sleep on CJB Radio. www.cjbradio.com

Honorable Mentions:

Winston Cheney- A true pioneer in the DC area and its unfair that he is not one of the top 10.  If he could help artists on radio, he would without a doubt.

Shirley M.K Berkely (Mother)- Although Mother Berkeley is up in age, she can still make a phone call on your behalf and get you from point A to point B in a hurry.

Rev. Dr. Emory Andrews- His work with Oxon Hill High School Choir propelled both of them to a Stellar Award win in 2010. He has become a force in the DC area and an influence to so many students and teachers as a person who has broken barriers. Oxon Hill is the only High School choir to win a major music industry award.

Jimmy Russell- Jimmy Russell supports everybody, even his haters. You can look up at an event and be sure that if no one else shows up, Jimmy is on his way. Bless you Jimmy. God is going to reward you while you yet live.


Peace,

Phillip Carter