I grew up in the church, actually above the church, and this album not only grants me a way to sing music I’ve always wanted to, but it also gives me a chance to give God some overdue praise for everything He has done, and continues to do for me. I really don’t deserve all that He has given me. I can’t help but be grateful; so, we’ll take the voice He gave and thank Him with it…, says Grammy-nominated singer Heather Headley.

Headley, also known for her powerful performances on Broadway, is preparing to release "Audience of One," her EMI Gospel debut.

Admitting to being uncomfortable as an R&B artist when provocative lyrics were submitted to her, Headley says "I never wanted to compromise anything, now I want to make sure God is happy, this album is for Him."

Teaming up with Stellar Award winning Gospel star Smokie Norful, Headley recently released the single "Jesus Is Love," a cover version of the classic 1980 tune by Lionel Richie and the Commodores.

"I grew up singing that song in Trinidad. EMI Gospel President Ken Pennell suggested that I record it as a duet, and when he mentioned Smokie’s name, I immediately said yes. He’s an amazing singer and a great pastor,” Heather says with admiration. “It was a joy to work with him, his choir, and musicians and observe the great respect and love they have for him."

Heather Headley's "Audience Of One" is slated for release in January. For more on Heather's debut watch this week's inspirational video of the Grammy-nominated singer singing "I'd Rather Have Jesus".



Bobby Jones Gospel Returns !

Bobby Jones Gospel is back for its 28th season..

Kicking off with Fantasia, Melonie Daniels and Isaiah Thomas & Elements of Praise, Jones', BET's longest running gospel program premieres Sunday, Nov. 23 at 9am EST.

Mary Mary, Vickie Winans, Tye Tribbett & G.A., Kirk Franklin, Pastor Shirley Caesar, Richard Smallwood, Bryon Cage and BET's Sunday Best winner Crystal Aiken will also join Dr. Bobby Jones throughout the season.



Barack Obama's [Gospel 4 Obama] Inaugural Choir !

Nearly 500 Barack Obama supporters have joined together for the Obama Inaugural Gospel Glee Club, a group that will perform at the President-elect's inauguration ceremony on Tuesday, January 20 in Washington D.C.

According to Barack Obama's official website, the choir includes several organizations such as Alaskans for Obama, Audacity of Hope Study Group, Film and Television Professionals for Obama and Musicians & Artists for Obama.




Billboard's Top Gospel Albums [Week of 11/29/08]

Mary Mary lands yet another week atop the Gospel charts, the group's fifth consecutive week at no.1 with "The Sound."

Here is the remainder of this week's top 10:

2. Hezekiah Walker & LFC - "Souled Out"
3. Juanita Bynum - "Pour My Love On You"
4. Kurt Carr & The Kurt Carr Singers "Just The Beginning"
5. Marvin Sapp "Thirsty"
6. Lecrae "Rebel"
7. Voices: The Ultimate Gospel Collection
8. Gotta Have Gospel! 6
9. Kierra Sheard "Bold Right Life"
10. WOW Gospel Essentials: All Time Favorites



Inspirational Video of the Week: Heather Headley "Silver & Gold"
(EMI Gospel)

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