tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75890469809294370442024-03-13T20:14:23.140-07:00Notes from the Sketch PadReviews, interviews, photos, stories, and other ramblings from Christian hip hop's resident Journalist.Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.comBlogger762125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-25074595415107433492013-02-04T09:04:00.001-08:002013-02-04T09:04:15.908-08:00Mixing It Up: Platinum-selling worship leader Chris Tomlin adds DJ Promote to ‘Burning Lights’ tour<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=DJ_Promote_stadium_set_right_zpsb2770984.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/DJ_Promote_stadium_set_right_zpsb2770984.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Platinum-selling singer/songwriter <b>Chris Tomlin</b> is squashing stereotypes of contemporary Christian music by adding <b>DJ Promote</b> to his <b>34-city “Burning Lights” worship tour</b>.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
The traveling stage show will be in support of Tomlin’s new, same-titled <i>Burning Lights</i> album, which earlier this month became only the fourth Christian album to ever hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200 sales chart.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
“I strive to create a special night for people from the beginning
moments to the very end. I want them to feel engaged with the music, to
be inspired, to have fun, and to be lifted up. Having DJ Promote this
year brings a new element to the tour that is perfectly in line with the
heart of the night,” <b>Chris Tomlin </b>said.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=ChrisTomlin_BLT_poster_zps7aa3d160.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/ChrisTomlin_BLT_poster_zps7aa3d160.jpg" /></a></div>
<b> </b><br />
<br />
The project’s lead single, “God’s Great Dance Floor”, sports a slight
EDM (electronic dance music) vibe that fits in naturally with the type
of environment <b>Carlos “DJ Promote” Trevino</b> has been used to supplying as a professional DJ for over a decade.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
Promote’s role as part of the “Burning Lights” tour will be to “throw a party” via a DJ performance after opening act <b>Kari Jobe</b> completes her set.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
“This is a really exciting opportunity for me personally and the DJ
community at large,” Trevino said. “It’s quite a statement that an
artist of Tomlin’s stature understands what a DJ can bring to this type
of event.”<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
Trevino’s turntable talents have been a part of over 11 albums and tours with artists such as <b>Lecrae, KJ-52, Tedashii, Propaganda, B.Reith, Knowdaverbs</b> and bands like <b>Shane and Shane, Starfield, Jars of Clay, and Thousand Foot Krutch</b>.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/iZzJp0FlNlo" width="400"></iframe>
<br />
His profession and passion have led him to DJ for over 250,000 people
in almost every state and in places like South Africa, Slovakia,
Sweden, The Netherlands, Canada, Panama, El Salvador, and Mexico.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
DJ Promote fell in love with music as a young boy in West Texas.
Growing up without the positive influence of a father (who was in and
out of prison) also caused him to seek acceptance and validation outside
of his family. Although he found his calling in graffiti art and hip
hop culture, Promote was still driven by a desire to use his art and
influence to improve the lives of others.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
He worked as an urban youth minister for over six years, created audio and video projects with the <b>Billy Graham Evangelistic Association</b>, has been an invited participant in the <b>SXSW</b> (South by Southwest independent music festival), and recently founded <b>Table Turners</b> – a resource and partnership for DJs who are giving back to their communities.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
“I try to live my life by putting people and ideas before myself,”
Trevino said. “I promote the things I enjoy. I love God. I love music. I
love to create and celebrate stuff that inspires people, so that’s what
you’re gonna get when you come see a DJ Promote show or hear one of my
mixes.”<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
“Hopefully it will make you feel as free as I do.”<br />
<br />
<b>Click <a href="http://www.christomlin.com/tour" target="_top">here </a>for “Burning Lights” tour dates.</b>Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-12878539977661093932013-02-01T08:40:00.004-08:002013-02-01T08:41:30.303-08:00Christian rapper cash hollistah. to release “goRilla” video during Super Bowl halftime show<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=CashHollistah_goRilla_SuperBowl_banner_zps791edde9.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/CashHollistah_goRilla_SuperBowl_banner_zps791edde9.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
In a stroke of magnificent marketing, Kansas-based Christian rapper <b>cash hollistah.</b>
(all lower case & a period) announced he will offer an alternative
to this Sunday’s Super Bowl halftime entertainment by dropping the music
video for his new song “goRilla” on his <a href="http://imabouttogorilla.com/" target="_top">website </a>right after the game’s second quarter is complete.<br />
<br />
The track, which features soul singer <b>Sean C. Johnson</b>, has a runtime of approximately four minutes so viewers who want to see this AND <b>Beyonce </b>can have their “cash” and eat it too.<br />
<br />
“goRilla” will be on the artist’s <i>#savednotsoft</i> EP which will be available March 26 through Unlabeled Music.<br />
<br />
Here’s your tease:<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/sCHy1VfciRs" width="400"></iframe>Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-74288618163584352602013-01-31T08:27:00.001-08:002013-01-31T08:27:59.707-08:00Christian rappers speak out on gun control laws and violence<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=Bizzle_BetterWayPart2_cover.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Bizzle_BetterWayPart2_cover.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
In the wake of the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary and other
areas of the United States, the debate over gun control is perhaps more
heated than ever.<br />
<br />
Some blame assault weapons or violent content in video games for the violence in our culture.<br />
<br />
But others, like <a href="http://iamthisl.com/" target="_top"><b>Thi’sl</b></a>,
argue more gun restrictions are not the answer. Here’s what he said
about the issue in a recent appearance on the Christian Broadcasting
Network.<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="195" scrolling="no" src="http://www.cbn.com/media/player/embedplayer.aspx?bcid=2128392001001&width=320&height=180" width="335"></iframe>
<br />
Other Christian rappers have also responded to this issue. Shortly after the Sandy Hook shooting, Houston’s <a href="http://godovermoney.com/" target="_top"><b>Bizzle</b></a> pushed his song “Better Way – Part 2″ online.<br />
<br />
Lines include:<br />
<blockquote>
“They like ‘Where is your God?’ / I’m like ‘I don’t know<br />
When you kicked Him out of your schools / where’d you tell Him to go?’”</blockquote>
and in reference to the Sandy Hook shooter:<br />
<blockquote>
“Maybe he misunderstood / maybe he thought what he was doing was all good<br />
Maybe what he heard was ‘School – and kill ‘em in the room’ / When you really said ‘It’s cool to kill ‘em in the womb”</blockquote>
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/jS5HL5M9ex8" width="400"></iframe>
<br />
<br />And Cincinnati rapper <a href="http://www.onerouteentertainment.com/fr_welcome.cfm" target="_top"><b>D-MAUB</b></a> released “Calm Down” as a reminder that outside pressures should never lead to a violent response.
<iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F71585193"></iframe>Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-42203174174982879682013-01-28T08:39:00.000-08:002013-01-28T08:39:47.523-08:00INTERVIEW: Propaganda on the response to “Puritans” and camera phones at concerts<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=texas-booking1-791x1024.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/texas-booking1-791x1024.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
A month ago I had the chance to sit down with spoken word/hip hop artist <a href="http://humblebeast.com/artists/propaganda/" target="_top"><b>Propaganda </b></a>and discuss a variety of topics including:<br />
<ul>
<li>The response to his “Precious Puritans” song</li>
<li>Why his poem “Be Present” resonates with listeners</li>
<li>Nuances in art made by Christians</li>
<li>Camera phones at concerts</li>
</ul>
Prop and the <a href="http://humblebeast.com/artists/beautiful-eulogy/" target="_top"><b>Beautiful Eulogy</b></a> folk-hip hop crew (<b>Braille</b>, <b>Odd Thomas</b>, & <b>Courtland Urbano</b>) return to Houston and Ecclesia tonight with a performance at Taft Street Coffee.<br />
<br />
Details and ticket info below:<br />
<br />
<b>Taft Street Coffee</b><br />
<b>2115 Taft Street</b><br />
<b>Houston, TX 77006</b><br />
<b>Monday, January 28 </b><br />
<b>7:30pm – 9:30pm</b><br />
<b>Tickets: $10 in advance (plus surcharges) / $15 door</b><br />
<br />
Buy tickets online <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/event/5322666238#" target="_top">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/U7kRBvdY2Hg" width="400"></iframe>Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-59198837951241855432013-01-21T07:04:00.001-08:002013-01-21T07:04:28.846-08:00Remembering MLK with I.D.O.L. King’s “Dr. King” from 1991<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=Dr_Martin_Luther_King_Jr.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" height="332" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Dr_Martin_Luther_King_Jr.jpg" width="398" /></a></div>
<br />
Today is the day America celebrates the life and legacy of <b>Dr. Martin Luther King</b>.<br />
<br />
Christian rap pioneers also honored him with the song “Dr. King” from their debut album <a href="http://www.hhhdb.com/index.php?id=109" target="_top"><i>Explosion 2.0.0.0.</i></a> that was released in 1991.<br />
<br />
Enjoy.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="300" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/JMrOUDGiJGQ" width="400"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
To find out why it was important to include this song and others
about black history alongside the message of the gospel in their music,
check out <a href="http://wadeoradio.com/an-interview-with-c-o-from-the-pioneering-christian-rap-group-i-d-o-l-king/" target="_top">my interview with I.D.O.L. King founding member C.O</a>.<br />
<br />
(The discussion about this song and black pride in the church starts around the 4:30 mark.)Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-60964520078115667222013-01-17T14:59:00.002-08:002013-01-17T14:59:48.705-08:00Second Christian rap showcase at SXSW ’13 announced<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=SXSW2013_Logo_Main1_750.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="SXSW2013_Logo_Main1_750" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/SXSW2013_Logo_Main1_750.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
A second Christian rap showcase for 2013′s <a href="http://sxsw.com/" target="_top">SXSW (South by Southwest)</a> has just been announced.<br />
<br />
The first round of artists lined up for this event include:<br />
<ul>
<li>Jin</li>
<li>Da’ T.R.U.T.H.</li>
<li>The Digital Age (aka the Dave Crowder Band minus Dave Crowder)</li>
<li>Sho Baraka</li>
<li>V Rose</li>
<li>FLAME</li>
<li>Eshon Burgundy</li>
<li>DJ DMD</li>
<li>Johnathan McReynolds</li>
<li>The W.A.R.R.I.O.R.S. ATX</li>
<li>Willie Moore, Jr.</li>
<li>Propaganda</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=sxsw13_flyer_kingdom_experience.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/sxsw13_flyer_kingdom_experience.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The “Kingdom Experience” will take place on <strong>Saturday, March 16</strong> from 10am – 4pm at the <strong>Carver Cultural Center</strong> (as it has been since 2009) and will be comprised of concerts and panel discussions about music ministry.<br />
<br />
It is an official SXSW event and, as in the past, it will be <strong>FREE </strong>and open to the public. Attendees will NOT need a SXSW badge or wristband to get in.<br />
<br />
A separate showcase by Reach Records (including <strong>Lecrae</strong>, <strong>Andy Mineo</strong>, and others) will also be held earlier in the week. The early <a href="http://blog.chron.com/jesusmusik/2012/11/lecrae-and-other-reach-booking-artists-among-first-acts-announced-for-sxsw-2013/" target="_top">lineup</a> for that concert was announced in November.<br />
<br />
Stay tuned for more details.Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-55622854732800904452013-01-17T08:37:00.001-08:002013-01-17T08:37:34.863-08:00Christian rapper Brinson interviewed on National Public Radio<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=BrinsonNPR_duo.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/BrinsonNPR_duo.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Christian rapper <b>Brinson </b>was recently interviewed on <b>National Public Radio</b>.<br />
<br />
The owner/CEO of <a href="http://godchaserz.com/" target="_top">GodChasez Entertainment</a> has over a decade of experience and training as an ordained minister and was invited to the station by <b>Melissa Ross</b>, the producer/host of the <b>First Coast Connect</b> show on WJCT FM/TV.<br />
<br />
The nearly five-minute segment covered:<br />
<ul>
<li>His role as an independent hip hop artist/entrepreneur</li>
<li>His ministry work in the Jacksonville, Florida community, and</li>
<li>The ways he is helping others duplicate his success.</li>
</ul>
“Brinson is a fresh exciting voice on the First Coast,” Ross said. “I enjoyed meeting him!”<br />
<br />
Brinson brought along Juice 20/20 of <a href="http://www.spacecherryfilms.com/" target="_top">Space Cherry Films</a> along to document the media session and was even able to perform an acapella of his track “Hit the Floor.”<br />
<br />
“NPR offers a great service to the community and I’m so grateful for
the opportunity to share with their audience what God is doing through
me and hip hop music,” Brinson said.<br />
<br />
First Coast Connect is described as a show covering the issues,
trends and newsmakers that have people talking. This one hour program
airs Monday to Friday at 9am EST on WJCT FM/TV and is available as a
podcast on NPR’s <a href="http://www.npr.org/rss/podcast/podcast_detail.php?siteId=141993467" target="_top">website</a>.<br /><br /><br />
<iframe width="400" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/GCXATPUA4ik" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-10819819039190703362013-01-16T08:53:00.000-08:002013-01-16T08:53:21.509-08:00A discussion about “Talented Xth”, race, & faith<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=sho-baraka-talented-xth1-500x270.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/sho-baraka-talented-xth1-500x270.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
On Monday night I was honored to be a part of an online discussion about rap, race, and faith.<br />
<br />
It was hosted by author <a href="http://sethtowerhurd.com/" target="_top">Seth Tower Hurd </a>and included hip hop artist/urban missionary <a href="https://twitter.com/kareemmanuel" target="_top">Kareem Manuel</a> and <a href="http://www.awisewoman1ncesaid.blogspot.com/" target="_top">Ta-Tanisha Jordan</a>, a Chicago-based actress who will be opening up a Children’s Theater Company this fall.<br />
<br />
Our talk was sparked by the release of <b>Sho Baraka’s <i>Talented Xth</i></b>
album (which hit #3 on iTunes’ Hip Hop/Rap charts yesterday) and his
“Jim Crow” song that uses the “n-word” and “b-word” – something that
surprises and shocks people given Sho’s past affiliation with one of
Christian hip hop’s most visible record labels.<br />
<br />
Our hour long conversation covers:<br />
<ul>
<li>The “Jim Crow” song and its “controversial” language</li>
<li>Whether or not Christians (particularly rappers) can <a href="http://blog.chron.com/jesusmusik/2013/01/is-the-n-word-off-limits-for-christian-rappers/" target="_top">use the “n-word” and “b-word” in their lyrics</a></li>
<li>How music like this can motivate others toward positive action</li>
<li>How this type of music compares to hip hop pushed in mainstream media</li>
<li>What happens when marriages between Christians get strained</li>
<li>Whether or not music by Christians that uses strong language should
carry parental warnings or offer “clean” alternative versions</li>
</ul>
<b>NOTE: It’s challenging to talk about these issues
(particularly which terms are okay and which are not) without using the
actual language. </b><br />
<br />
<b>So heads up that the “n-word” and “b-word” are spoken in this video.</b><br />
<br />
<b> </b>
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7PdmWRy97cw" width="400"></iframe>Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-55453860978868807522013-01-16T08:49:00.000-08:002013-01-16T08:49:36.367-08:00Is the ‘n-word’ off-limits for Christian rappers?<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=sho-baraka.png" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/sho-baraka.png" /></a></div>
<br />
Today, <strong>Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday</strong>, marks the release of <strong>Sho Barka</strong>‘s <em>Talented Xth</em> album.<br />
<br />
The well-produced and though-out project comes from an artist who used to be signed to the biggest Christian rap label around (<strong>Reach Records</strong>)
but who now says that, although he’s still firmly a believer in Jesus
Christ, he’s no longer interested in making music for the “Christian
market.”<br />
<br />
It’s also garnering some buzz for the song <strong>“Jim Crow”</strong> that was previously titled <strong>“N—a Island”</strong> and uses that term within its hook.<br />
<br />
The subject matter tackles the narrator’s frustration about what
constitutes blackness in America – a topic publicly discussed as
recently as last month when an <strong>ESPN </strong>personality called former <strong>Baylor University quarterback Robert Griffin III</strong> a <a href="http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/blog/eye-on-football/21392746/rob-parker-calls-rg3-a-cornball-brother-says-hes-not-one-of-us" target="_top">“cornball brother.”</a><br />
<br />
I talked to Sho Baraka about the song and its title a few months ago at the release party for <strong>Lecrae</strong>‘s <em>Gravity </em>record here in Houston. In <a href="http://therapup.net/2013/01/sho-baraka-talks-talented-xth-johnnie-cochran-n-a-island/" target="_top">our conversation</a>,
he explained why he changed the title and even gave a parental advisory
that this particular song may not be one you want young children
repeating.<br />
<br />
You can stream the album in full with the player below. I’m also told there are <a href="https://soundcloud.com/werize/sho-baraka-jim-crow" target="_top">edited versions</a> (aka “Colored Island”) available on the physical CD format.<br />
<br />
<iframe width="540" height="540" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" src="http://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Fplaylists%2F3292951&show_artwork=true&secret_token=s-hJkoP"></iframe>
And while this song/album are buzzing because it’s being released
today, it’s not the first time a Christian rapper has used the “n-word”
on his record.<br />
<br />
Plenty of MCs fresh off the street continued to use the term in an
affectionate tone on their post-conversion albums and 20 years ago the
group <strong>S.F.C.</strong> (Soldiers for Christ) featuring the <strong>Alliance of Light </strong>who would later be known as top-selling rappers <strong>Gospel Gangstas</strong>) even tackled the entire notion of the word on the song <strong>“Kill that Spirit.”</strong><br />
<br />
<iframe width="400" height="300" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Wk0UiJFNxHs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<strong>Question: Is the “n-word” off-limits for Christian rappers?</strong> <br />
Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-22576946346659741802013-01-04T08:43:00.000-08:002013-01-04T08:43:09.100-08:00I’m speaking at the New Media Expo this weekend with deepspace5′s sintax.the.terrific and Just para-DOX<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://nmxlive.com/" target="_top"><img alt="NMX Featured Speaker" class="aligncenter" height="250" src="http://nmxlive.com/2013-lv/files/2012/11/NMX13_LV_250x250-Featured-Speaker.gif" width="250" /></a></div>
<br />
This weekend I’ll be joining <strong>deepspace5</strong> member <strong><a href="http://www.ipoetblog.com/" target="_top">sintax.the.terrific</a></strong> and <a href="http://justparadox.com/" target="_top"><strong>Jeramiah “Just para-DOX” Giehl</strong></a> as presenters at the <a href="http://nmxlive.com/2013-lv/" target="_top">New Media Expo</a> in Las Vegas, Nevada.<br />
<br />
The four-day event is described as the <strong>South by Southwest</strong>
of new media and the world’s largest conference and trade show for
bloggers, podcasters, webTV and video series creators.<br />
<br />
Keynotes will be
given by Apple evangelist <strong>Guy Kawasaki</strong>, tech head <strong>Leo Laporte</strong>, and UFC president <strong>Dana White</strong>.<br />
<br />
Giehl organized our session which will cover <a href="http://nmxlive.com/2013-lv/schedule/" target="_top">“3 Unique Ways to Build a Massive Community.”</a><br />
<br />
It’s not a Christian or hip hop event, although all three of us come out of and represent that life.<br />
<br />
Para-DOX has been involved in a number of Christian hip hop affairs over the years as a rapper and as part of <strong>Much Luvv Records</strong>.<br />
<br />
And you might remember <a href="http://www.chron.com/life/houston-belief/article/Lawyer-by-day-rapper-by-night-creates-audible-2444121.php" target="_top">my reporting</a>
of sintax’s creative venture where, once or twice a week, he writes,
records, and posts a rap song about a serious news story on his <a href="http://www.ipoetblog.com/" target="_top">ThePressJunket.com</a> blog.<br />
<br />
Prayerfully, we’ll make great connections there and learn about a grip of cutting edge ways to use new media for God’s glory.<br />
<br />
To learn more about the event visit <a href="http://nmxlive.com/2013-lv/" target="_top">nmxlive.com</a>.Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-43148744623555639362013-01-04T08:40:00.001-08:002013-01-04T08:40:34.190-08:00INTERVIEW: Authentik talks about prison ministry, putting Bible stories into rap form, and unique band names<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=GB4G1FrontCover.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/GB4G1FrontCover.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I recently caught up with <b>Serge</b> from the group<b> Authentik </b>via e-mail to ask about prison ministry, putting Bible stories into rap form, and unique band names.<br />
<br />
<b>Sketch: The guys in your group are from Florida but some of
them spent time in Texas and the South basically being homeless
evangelists after some training by the Global Gospel Movement. </b><br />
<br />
<b>How did that experience impact the music? </b><br />
<br />
Serge: While on the mission trip, we saw the effects of sin on
mankind first hand and they’re total and absolute hopelessness without
Him. We ran into thousands of people, lost and found, who DESPERATELY
needed the Gospel, so as we minister through music, we want to ALWAYS
relay to the listener whether lost or found, we never graduate or go
away from the Gospel, but instead we go deeper into the Gospel, as it is
our only hope.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/VcyXAYp6Slw" width="400"></iframe>
<b> </b><br />
<br />
<b>Sketch: You also told me this album, <i>Groans Before Glory</i>, is somewhat based on a pamphlet called “No Cross, No Crown” that was written by a Quaker named William Penn. </b><br />
<br />
<b>That’s got to be a first for a rap album, right? How did you
guys run across that piece of work that ultimately inspired your rhymes?</b><br />
<br />
Serge: We actually heard about it from Gus Cruz (our manager).
Somewhere in the pamphlet the writer mentioned groaning before glory and
that just stuck with us. We decided to study more on that topic and
what it means, so after searching through the scriptures we just found
that that theme was all throughout the Bible, so we ran with it!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/cSuPgZVPHLI" width="400"></iframe>
<b> </b><br />
<br />
<b>Sketch: Your group is working a series of songs/videos that
illustrate famous Bible stories including like Abraham and Isaac and the
Fall in the Garden of Eden. </b><br />
<br />
<b>Which one has been the most challenging so far? Which story are you most looking forward to fleshing out via hip hop? </b><br />
<br />
Serge: Both stories we’ve done so far actually came pretty easy,
however we have a list of Bible stories that the ministry wants us to do
for them and it looks like the story of Joseph in Genesis will be the
toughest. Its such a long and<br />
<br />
interesting story so its going to be a challenge trying to pack all of that into one song!<br />
<br />
The story that we’re looking most forward to doing has already been done, <i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBT7uTdZid4" target="_top">The Fall of Man</a></i>, we’re most excited about that one because we felt it came out pretty good!<br />
<br />
<b>Sketch: You guys do a fair amount of prison ministry as well.
How well would you say that hip hop is accepted in that environment?
Why is that? </b><br />
<br />
Serge: Hip hop is very well accepted in the prisons! People just in
general love stories, so when we go into the prisons we try to do some
Bible stories to get them to reflect on scripture and then we like to
turn it up after that, the inmates love loud bass and dope lyrics.<br />
<br />
<b>Sketch: The record company you formed for this release is called CTF or “Conformed to Facts.” </b><br />
<b>However, I can’t help but notice you didn’t conform to the
fact that the word “authentic” is spelled with a “c” at the end and not a
“k.”What happened there when it came to naming the group?</b><br />
<br />
Serge: Haha! We just wanted our name to be easier to find when people
search for us! SO many different bands and random videos pop up when
you search “Authentic” with a “c” so we wanted to better serve the
people while they search.<br />
<br />
<b>To learn more about Authentik visit: <a href="http://ctfrecords.org/" target="_top">http://ctfrecords.org/</a></b>Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-17311116114530804042013-01-04T08:37:00.000-08:002013-01-04T08:37:10.425-08:00Titans’ linebacker sets record with two pick-6 TD’s while wearing #IMONFIRE wristbands from Christian rapper Rawsrvnt<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=ZachBrown_IMONFIRE_2TDs.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/ZachBrown_IMONFIRE_2TDs.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
It appears that Tennessee Titans’ rookie linebacker <strong>Zach Brown</strong> truly is “on fire.”</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
After achieving two sacks in a recent Monday Night Football game against the New York Jets (where he was seen <a href="http://blog.chron.com/jesusmusik/2012/12/christian-rapper-rawsrvnts-imonfire-wristband-spotted-on-tennessee-titan-during-monday-night-football-game/" target="_top">sporting the #IMONFIRE wristbands from hip hop worship artist Rawsrvnt</a>) he followed it up with a <a href="http://blog.titansonline.com/2012/12/30/rookie-lb-zach-brown-ties-nfl-record-for-most-interception-returns-for-tds-in-game/" target="_top">record-tying two interceptions for touchdowns</a> against the Jacksonville Jaguars on December 30.<br />
<br />
“It’s awesome to see an athlete like Zach who is so upfront about his faith do so well on the football field,” Rawsrvnt said.<br />
<br />
“His passion for the game is evident and even though I’m from Miami,
it feels like I’m starting to become a Tennessee Titan fan,” the rapper
joked.<br />
<br />
Fans wanting to get their own #IMONFIRE apparel can order them online <a href="http://www.gratefulapparel.com/product/im-on-fire" target="_top">here </a>or
ReTweet this story (including tags for @Rawsrvnt, @ZachBrown_55, and
#IMONFIRE) for a chance to receive a wristband or two from the artist
himself.Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-48110324614846639082013-01-04T08:34:00.002-08:002013-01-04T08:34:54.882-08:005th Ward Boyz rappers reunite and organize a Stop the Violence Unity Concert in their old neighborhood<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=TakinBackTheStreets_flyer.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/TakinBackTheStreets_flyer.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The three founding members of the <a href="http://www.houstonpress.com/1996-01-25/music/ghetto-do-gooders/" target="_top"><b>5th Ward Boyz</b></a>, a group whose hardcore gangsta raps helped make Houston’s <b>Rap-A-Lot Records</b> a nationwide brand, will reunite on <b>Sunday, December 23</b> from <b>2pm – 6pm</b> for a <b>“Stop the Violence Unity Concert”</b> at Brewster Park in their old neighborhood.<br />
<br />
The free event will feature music, a memorial time for victims of
violent deaths, and “empowerment moments” of inspiration from community
leaders including <b>Houston City Councilman Jerry Davis</b> who represents 5th Ward’s district B.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/SXSW09/?action=view&current=007_close.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/SXSW09/007_close.jpg" /></a><b> </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Andre “007″ Barnes</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
5th Ward Boyz member <b>Andre “007″ Barnes</b> said he
organized the affair in response to a rash of violence in the area – a
reported eight murders in a two-month span, including four that took
place back-to-back.<br />
“When we were releasing records the 5th Ward used to be unified. But
now, there’s some Hatfield and McCoy stuff going on with retaliatory
shootings and killings,” Barnes said. “We just felt the need to talk to
the brothers in our community and tell them there’s a better way.”<br />
<br />
For many of the members of the 5th Ward Boyz that way includes a 180
degree life change through a faith in Jesus Christ. Barnes, who once
served felony time for a bank robbery, now owns a Christian bookstore, <a href="http://blog.chron.com/jesusmusik/2011/05/bun-b-speaks-to-mentorship-group-led-by-former-5th-ward-boy-007/" target="_top">serves as a youth mentor</a>, and records and performs gospel rap music. <b>Richard “Lo Life” Nash</b> and <b>Eric “E-Rock” Taylor</b>‘s lives and music appear to be following similar paths.<br />
<br />
Barnes said that on Sunday he anticipates appearances and/or musical contributions from artists such as <b>Bun B</b>, <b>Gifted da Flamethrowa</b>, and <b>Derrick Chism</b>. The day will also serve as a toy drive for underprivileged youth.<br />
<br />
Here’s an example of what the 5th Ward Boyz are about these days:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/CdtejN8FrwM" width="480"></iframe>Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-48674223578286760512012-12-03T08:35:00.002-08:002012-12-03T08:35:53.196-08:00VIDEO: KB responds to reports of possible group album with Trip Lee & Andy MineoRapzilla.com (a site with a good reputation for reporting information about Reach Records) recently published a <a href="http://www.rapzilla.com/rz/news/38-backstage/5373-rumor-andy-mineo-trip-lee-and-kb-may-release-a-group-album#disqus_thread" target="_top">report</a> about a possible group album by the “retiring” <b>Trip Lee</b>, <b>KB</b>, and <b>Andy Mineo</b>. The story is based in part on this recent Tweet from Andy Mineo.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
An emotional night watching @<a href="https://twitter.com/triplee116">triplee116</a> perform 4 the last time on tour w us. That is, unless me, him & @<a href="https://twitter.com/kb_hga">kb_hga</a> do a group album…<br />
— Andy Mineo (@AndyMineo) <a data-datetime="2012-11-19T09:39:46+00:00" href="https://twitter.com/AndyMineo/status/270461353347661824">November 19, 2012</a></blockquote>
<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
Since KB was in town for the “No Boundaries” concert with Tedashii and Suzy Rock, I had to ask him about the “rumor.”<br />
<br />
Here is his response.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Qy_0jTBjCQk" width="400"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
Fans may recall that the trio got together for the “One Sixteen” song/video which has been a crowd favorite throughout the year.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/1aULF0MDHtU" width="400"></iframe>
<br />
<b>Questions:</b><br />
<b>What are you thoughts? Is this confirmation of the collab? Is this something you’re excited about?</b>Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-50735825857572017732012-11-29T07:50:00.000-08:002012-11-29T07:50:25.757-08:00VIDEO: Sho Baraka “disses” fellow High Society member Swoope<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/uuy55UCtX1I" width="400"></iframe>
<br />
In this clip I captured at Lecrae’s <i>Gravity </i>release concert in Houston,<b> Sho Baraka</b> calls out his <a href="http://thisishigh.com/" target="_top">High Society</a> group member <b>Swoope</b>.<br />
<br />
As you can tell when he pops into the frame with his “Come on, son!” face, Swoope didn’t feel too threatened. Also, that’s <b>Collision Records</b> co-owner Mike Luna on Sho’s right.<br />
<br />
NOTE: Don’t believe everything you see and read on the Internet. <img alt=":)" class="wp-smiley" src="http://blog.chron.com/jesusmusik/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif" /> Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-63546351884950287032012-11-27T19:15:00.000-08:002012-11-27T19:15:29.752-08:00The new Social Club album, “Misfits,” sounds like…<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=Misfit_Queen4.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" height="320" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Misfit_Queen4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The new <a href="http://martymar.goodcitymusic.com/" target="_top"><b>Social Club</b></a> album, <i>Misfits</i>, sounds like:<br />
<ul>
<li>A spaceship landed at your junior high school in Miami, it’s the
night of the Sadie Hawkins Dance, and you showed up without a date.</li>
<li> Members of <b>Odd Future</b> and <b>Maybach Music Group</b> reading you bed time stories.</li>
<li> A pull-string <b>baby Moses</b> doll who wears sunglasses at night.</li>
<li> The music coming out of a teenager’s <b>Skullcandy </b>ear buds when his older sister forces him to accompany her down the feminine hygiene product aisle at Walmart.</li>
<li> Your youth pastor’s ringtone.</li>
<li> The heartbeat of the kid who has to save up money to buy one “cool” shirt at <b>Hot Topic</b> he prays doesn’t go out of style before he can wear it.</li>
<li> A hip hop album made by <b>Veggie Tales</b> characters who need a throat lozenge after trying to discuss their set list in a loud nightclub.</li>
<li> <b>Ke$ha</b> and <b>Andre 3000</b>’s submission to your church talent show.</li>
<li> Hip hop music your mom doesn’t like but hopes “has really good words.”</li>
</ul>
Interested? Download a free copy of the project <a href="http://www.mediafire.com/?wcgbcdgg29vmv9u" target="_top">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/kL32TVsB5Fo" width="400"></iframe>Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-62141717026797722012-11-26T08:35:00.000-08:002012-11-27T17:50:06.161-08:00INTERVIEW: Author Seth Tower Hurd talks about “Hip Hop & Jr. College”, poverty, racism, and Christians<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=sth_book1-cover_FINAL1.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" height="478" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/sth_book1-cover_FINAL1.jpg" width="299" /></a></div>
The night before the Thanksgiving holiday I conducted my first Google
Hangout interview with former Christian radio personality/current
author <a href="http://sethtowerhurd.com/" target="_top">Seth Tower Hurd</a> about his new book <i><b>Hip Hop & Jr. College</b></i>.<br />
<br />
In our conversation below, we get into:<br />
<br />
- The background of the book<br />
- The hip hop EP he organized to promote the it<br />
<ul>
<li>Which contains songs from <b>Manchild </b>of Mars Ill, <b>Wit & Dre Murray</b>, <b>theBREAX</b> & <b>DJ Wade-O</b>, and <b>Heath McNease</b></li>
<li>Which you download for <b>FREE </b><a href="http://noisetrade.com/hiphopandjrcollege" target="_top">here</a></li>
</ul>
- How Christians deal with racism and poverty in America<br />
- How hip hop and sports can start to help heal those type of issues<br />
- Whether or not our country is more or less racist after electing a black President<br />
<br />
If you haven’t had a chance to check it out yet, you can grab <i>Hip Hop and Jr. College</i> from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hip-Hop-Jr-College-ebook/dp/B009KSY0UY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1349447891&sr=8-1&keywords=hip+hop+and+jr.+college" target="_top">Amazon</a> or <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hip-hop-and-jr-college-seth-tower-hurd/1113137303?ean=2940015554397" target="_top">Barnes & Noble</a> for $2.99.<br />
<br />
<iframe width="400" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/v2YvqaNzDD4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-56302921959517593642012-11-13T09:21:00.001-08:002012-11-13T09:21:57.764-08:00INTERVIEW: Brinson on “No Other Heroes” and what to think when God doesn’t seem to answer your prayers<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=brinson-no-other-heroes_400.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="brinson-no-other-heroes_400" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/brinson-no-other-heroes_400.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I recently caught up with <a href="http://godchaserz.com/" target="_top">GodChaserz Entertainment</a> CEO/producer/rapper <strong>Brinson </strong>via
e-mail to discuss his new album, what to think when God doesn’t seem to
answer your prayers, and which film made the best superhero movie this
summer.<br />
<br />
<strong>Sketch: <em>No Other Heroes</em> marks your third solo album and 22nd release from the GodChaserz record label you founded and own. </strong><br />
<br />
<strong>After so much time and effort spent in music ministry, I
imagine that things can occasionally get boring, frustrating, or just
routine. So what motivates you to press on and move forward these days?</strong><br />
<br />
Brinson: A couple of things really.<br />
<br />
First and foremost, I believe I am called to do GodChaserz. If I
didn’t believe God sent me to do this I would have quit a million times.<br />
<br />
The second reason is all the testimonies, they really help me stick
it out in the hard times. That being said, I quit at least 20 times
while making <em>NOH</em>. Then the Lord would have people from all over
the country send me emails, texts, tweets about how my music has
impacted their kids, youth ministry, or changed the culture of their
church, etc. That is one of the biggest things.<br />
<br />
Also, I think I have had that “I’m being slept on” mentality for so
long that I still work extra hard like I have something to prove. Every
album it feels like I (or any of the guys on the label) have to reprove
that GodChaserz is a force in Christian Hip Hop.<br />
<br />
Other than that, I’m still having fun. I love to be on stage, I love
meeting people. And I want to make sure I’m clearing a path for other
GodChaserz artists.<br />
<br />
<strong>Sketch: Your song “Gold” unfolds a pretty interesting story. What inspired it?</strong><br />
<br />
Brinson: I was inspired by watching numerous artist on TV. We see the same story all the time. From <strong>KC and Jo Jo</strong>, to the late, great <strong>Whitney Houston</strong>
– the list goes on and on. They all come up in church, God gives them a
gift, then they leave the church and blow up. Drugs and all sorts of
crazy things come into play when money is involved. It always leads to
emptiness.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=Brinson_Sniperz_video.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Brinson_Sniperz_video.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<strong>Sketch: Your song “Hit the Floor” is a bit of a departure
from your typical sound but may be my favorite track on the album. What
made you want to spazz out on the song and in the video? </strong><br />
<br />
Brinson: On every album I always have some sort of hybrid song (ex.
“Green Grass Theory,” “80/20″, “Hello”). This time around it’s “Hit the
Floor.” I’m big on pushing the envelope with fusing styles on my albums.<br />
<br />
As far as spazzing out, while <strong>Juice2020 </strong>(co-producer)
and I were going over the project, we kept pushing hard for lyrics,
harder lyrics. I just had fun with “Hit the Floor” and it came out
great. I never thought it would be the first video but God brought it
all together; the concept, look, everything. I think everyone is going
to enjoy this one.<br />
<iframe width="400" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/GCXATPUA4ik" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<br />
<strong>Sketch: You attempted to fund the production and promotion of
this album using the popular crowd-sourcing site Indiegogo.com. With it
you set, but did not reach, a goal of $50,000. What made you post such a
lofty target figure and what does it say about faith and God’s
willingness to financially bless or not bless your work here?</strong><br />
<br />
Brinson: Man Sketch…. this is a hard thing to talk about.<br />
<br />
I wasn’t going to do it at all. As you know, I’ve been doing this for
so long without any big label push behind me. I’ve been relying on
favor and faith in God’s provision. Many doors have opened that way, so I
was just going to stick to the formula.<br />
<br />
But I know the message has to reach more people. So I prayed on it
and believed the Lord said “Go.” I still fought with it too. But, I know
an obedient and willing heart will always win with the Lord. So I
stepped out on faith and went for it.<br />
<br />
We didn’t reach our goal, and naturally a man will question if he
obeyed God. The “Where did I go wrong?” question came up. Ultimately, I
just chalk it up to God having a greater purpose, maybe to just kill my
pride of not wanting to ask for help.<br />
<br />
I set the target so high because I know what good can be done with
that amount of money. I could reach more people – especially orphans
and kids in group homes. As far as God’s willingness to bless, I still
believe He’ll do it. God is able.<br />
<br />
Would I do it again? Probably not. But, if I feel the Lord is saying
do it, I’m not dumb enough to tell God “No”. Those things never work
out.<br />
<br />
<strong>Sketch: Since the new album is called <em>No Other Heroes</em> and I know you’re a film fan which made the better movie this summer: <em>The Avengers</em>, <em>The Dark Knight Returns</em>, or the Spiderman reboot? Why? </strong><br />
<br />
Brinson: <em>The Dark Knight Returns</em> was the best movie of this
year – hands down. It was more than a comic book movie, it had
everything: suspense, great acting, a plot twist, drama, great fights,
shoot’em up, bang bang… it was a great story all around. I thought the
acting was at a high level. They nailed every scene. I had to go back
and watch <em>The Dark Knight</em>. So yeah, <em>Dark Knight Returns</em>.<br />
<br />
<em>The Avengers</em> was a close second. It was a GREAT comic book
action movie. Robert Downey Jr. really did a great job acting. He was
very impressive, better than all of his <em>Iron Man</em> movies.(I thought <em>Iron Man 2</em>
was horrible.) The dude who played the Hulk was great. I really like
him. I appreciated that Samuel L. Jackson didn’t ruin the movie. He
isn’t good in sci-fi movies.<br />
<br />
Spiderman was an epic fail. I thought the story told was good, but
the dude who replaced Toby Mcguire was thumbs down. But hey, you can’t
win ‘em all Hollywood.<br />
<br />
That was a great question man. You know I’m a big movie buff. I’ve
seen at least 20 movies in the theater this year. SMH I need to repent,
LOL.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>BONUS QUESTION:</strong></div>
<br />
<strong>Sketch: What song(s) have you’ve made that you think got overlooked, but you thought it was special?</strong><br />
<br />
Brinson: On my first album it would be a song called <strong>“</strong>I
Remember.” I thought it was a great song. We talked about so many
things about the 80′s (toys, candy, TV shows etc). It was overshadowed
by “Solar Powered” that was a big song.<br />
<br />
Then on <em>OMG </em>i would say it would be “Breaking Down.” It was a
great storytelling/fantasy song. I think my flow and voice tone was
great and the third verse was very good.<br />
<br />
<strong><em>No Other Heroes</em> releases today at all major digital download stores including <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/no-other-heroes/id566703011" target="_top">iTunes</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/No-Other-Heroes/dp/B009JNNWZE/ref=sr_shvl_album_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1350956653&sr=301-1" target="_top">Amazon.com</a>.</strong>
<iframe width="400" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/cIEUc5pRk2E" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-71425506272306083252012-11-13T09:15:00.002-08:002012-11-13T09:15:53.022-08:00INTERVIEW: Will The Ambassador be more preachy or less preachy on his next album?<iframe width="400" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/k7A6Co7WoFQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
When the MOVE Tour hit Houston a few months ago I got to sit down with <a href="http://www.theambassadoronline.com/" target="_top">The Ambassador</a> and talk about his approach to music.<br />
<br />
Now that Xist Records has announced the date of the still-untitled
release (March 26, 2013) it’s a good time to share this part of our
conversation where he discusses whether or not he plans to be more
preachy or less preachy on that upcoming project.Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-63636038841986832972012-10-17T08:44:00.001-07:002012-10-20T07:28:40.723-07:00Beautiful Eulogy on their unique sound and recent collaboration with Lecrae<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=Beautiful_Eulogy_SHSU_performance.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Beautiful_Eulogy_SHSU_performance" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Beautiful_Eulogy_SHSU_performance.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Beautiful Eulogy performed at Sam Houston State University on October 11 - Photo by Sketch the Journalist</b></div>
<br />
Last week when the <a href="http://humblebeast.com/artists/beautiful-eulogy/" target="_blank">Beautiful Eulogy</a> boys were in town I had a chance to sit down with them after a show and ask about a wide variety of topics. Here, we discuss their unique sound and recent collaboration with <b>Lecrae </b>on the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jT-rHzNqHjo" target="_blank">song "Misconception"</a> for the <i>Church Clothes</i> mixtape hosted by <b>DJ Don Cannon</b>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/BoPpqlRiS1U" width="400"></iframe>Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-28261783007233831332012-10-17T08:40:00.001-07:002012-10-17T08:40:35.044-07:003 Christian rap connections to the Houston Texans<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=Quintin_Demps_No_Struggle_slide.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Quintin_Demps_No_Struggle_slide" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Quintin_Demps_No_Struggle_slide.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
As you may have noticed, people around these parts are kind of
excited about the way the Texans have been playing lately. So it should
be no surprise that Houstonians in both the hip hop and Christian
communities are jumping on the bandwagon to celebrate the team’s
record-setting 5-0 start.<br />
Here are three Texan Christian rap connections you need to know about:<br />
<h1>
1. Quintin Demps’ raps “No Struggle, No Pain”</h1>
As you might recall from <a href="http://www.chron.com/life/houston-belief/article/Texan-feels-a-tug-to-influence-youth-through-3828720.php%20" target="_top">my Houston Chronicle profile a few weeks ago</a>, strong safety <strong>Quintin Demps</strong> is starting his own record label for Christian music called Purpose By Faith.<br />
<br />
This week he dropped his first rap single, “No Struggle, No Pain” under the stage name <strong>Q Demps</strong>.<br />
Although he’s currently sitting out a few games due to an injury, it
seems like the perfect time for him to release this track (featuring <strong>Von Won</strong>) about the emotional ups and downs that everyone, especially Christ-pursuing believers, will face in their lives.<br />
<br />
And while the song contains lines specific to Demps’ job as a
professional athlete, there are also plenty of lyrics that any
oxygen-breathing Earthling can relate to.<br />
<br />
Free stream and download from the widget below:<br />
<iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" src="http://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F62230105&show_artwork=true&show_artwork=true&callback=reqwest_0&_=1350488394839"></iframe>
<h1>
2. Local Christian rappers create Texans’ fight song</h1>
The team has also had a fight song written for them by Christian rappers <strong>World Rejects</strong> and <strong>Bless’t</strong>.<br />
<br />
Sample lyrics from “Kings of the Gridiron” include:<br />
<br />
<em>Ask that boy Quintin Demps how Jesus is his safety</em><br />
<em>With Barwin and Cushing on D, that AFC is on lock</em><br />
<em>From the boroughs to the swat, JJ Watt can’t be stopped</em><br />
<br />
Free stream and download from the widget below:<br />
<iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" src="http://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F61955810&show_artwork=true&show_artwork=true&callback=reqwest_0&_=1350488368432"></iframe>
<h1>
3. Running back Justin Forsett is a Lecrae fan</h1>
During the top-selling Christian rappers’ <a href="http://blog.chron.com/jesusmusik/2012/10/recap-gravity-album-release-concert-%E2%80%93-warehouse-live-houston-092812/" target="_top">“Gravity” tour stop at Warehouse Live last month</a> I ran into Texans running back <strong>Justin Forsett</strong> who told me about how he first got introduced to this message music.
<iframe width="400" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/RnmTwxl8Wgc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-36863267895890096812012-10-17T08:38:00.000-07:002012-10-17T08:38:05.128-07:00INTERVIEW: Cody Miles on bringing Beautiful Eulogy to Sam Houston State University<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=Beautiful_Eulogy_SHSU_poster400.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Beautiful_Eulogy_SHSU_poster400" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Beautiful_Eulogy_SHSU_poster400.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I recently caught up with rapper/full-time student <a href="http://codymiles.bandcamp.com/" target="_top">Cody Miles</a>
via e-mail to discuss his role in bringing Christian hip hop to campus
at Sam Houston State University (my alma mater), why he selected<b> Beautiful Eulogy </b>for this week’s show, and whether or not we need to dress like hipsters to enjoy the concert.<br />
<br />
<b>Sketch: What most impressed you about Beautiful Eulogy? Why bring them to Huntsville, Texas? </b><br />
<br />
Cody: Honestly, when I get to put on these concerts at Sam Houston
State the first question I ask myself is, “Who do I want to meet next?”
And then I convince my team and the Dean of Students that all their
wildest dreams will come true if they listen to me. So, there’s that.<br />
<br />
But really, I’ve been following <b>Braille </b>and<b> Odd Thomas</b>
separately since I started college in 2009. They are phenomenal rappers
and they’ve impacted my life in so many ways as it is. When they
released the Beautiful Eulogy record, they also really filled a hole in a
genre that was so needing of them. It’s funny. When I describe their
music to people, especially church-kids, I tell them, “It’s kind of like
combining abstract worship music and dope hip-hop with a little folk.”
It’s just good.<br />
<br />
We’re bringing them to Huntsvegas primarily because my team’s focus
is on Christian leadership and stimulating conversations about faith.
That involves doctrine. I think Beautiful Eulogy is able to
communicate the character of Christ as the motif for Christian behavior
better than most artists in the genre. Braille is also giving a message
about Christ as a leader after they perform. It’s just a great fit for
what we want to do on our campus.<br />
<br />
<b>Sketch: What’s the biggest challenge of throwing a concert like this? </b><br />
<br />
Cody: Haha, oh man. College students. College students are the
freaking worst. We’re in an environment so saturated with events and
promotion that it really takes work to get noticed. Besides that, we’re
not playing the hottest club hits so students are confused as to what
we’re even doing. But, really, does anyone actually like <b>“Gangnam Style”</b>?<br />
<br />
This year, we tripled our promotion budget, placed the event on campus and received sponsorship with <b>Monster Energy Drink</b>.
I’m opening for Beautiful Eulogy and it’s kind of embarrassing how
many times my face is actually plastered in the hall ways and class
rooms. We have something like 2,000 flyers floating around and another
50 large posters around campus. So, we’ll see what happens.<br />
<br />
<b>Sketch: You’re a public relations major at SHSU. So tell me, how did you put your education to use to promote this show?</b><br />
<br />
Cody: I’ve come to learn that Public Relations can be a very
equivocated term. It’s not exactly rocket science. Really, it’s just a
game of educated guess and check. In our case, we took some very
informal surveys (we definitely didn’t get our research approved by the
IRB), confirmed my already-cemented bias for Beautiful Eulogy, and tried
to get the attention of college ministries.<br />
<br />
In our luck, we’ve teamed up with a nationwide event called <b>Engage24</b>,
which serves as a vehicle to encourage all campus ministries
to evangelize to a part of the campus for 24 hours. Our event will
culminate all of that at the end of the day. Then there is radio and
newspapers and blogs. Oh my.<br />
<br />
We’ll see how it turns out!<br />
<br />
<b>Sketch: You’re a recording artist too, so apart from getting
to perform and open the show for these guys, what’s been your favorite
part of organizing and promoting concerts like this for Tedashii, Sho
Baraka, Freddie Bruno, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vItlC8ubJKI&list=UUU22m4dc558CB3rUiYNkQYQ&index=12&feature=plcp" target="_top">Playdough, Heath McNease, RedCloud</a>, and now Beautiful Eulogy?</b><br />
<br />
Cody: It’s cool, man. I really live for this stuff. I’m writing the
business plan to do it in Austin when I graduate in December. I love
seeing progress – having a vision for something and seeing it come to
life. I love that people support me in these sometimes retarded ideas.
I love that I get to show people how to put these things on so they can
carry the vision when I leave. I love that, in some ways, this is a
legacy that I get to be part of. Building the Kingdom of Heaven at Sam
Houston State University. That’s kind of an honor.<br />
<br />
My favorite part is getting to meet the people you listen to on the daily. I got to spend 14 hours in a car with <b>manCHILD </b>one
time and while he probably hated every minute of it, I was euphoric. I
love hip-hop. I love the culture, the people, the feeling you get when
you write a dope line. Meeting my heroes is kind of inspiring and also
a little humbling. I remember listening to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbhYC9USvqI" target="_top">“Resurrect Me” by Braille</a>
when I was going through one of the hardest times in my life. Now, I
get to meet the guy that helped me get through it- and I get thank him
from the stage.<br />
<br />
<b>Sketch: I know the Beautiful Eulogy guys are from Portland,
Oregon. Does that mean we all need to be facial-hair-and-plaid-wearing
hipsters in order to enjoy the show? Will I be required to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XM3vWJmpfo" target="_top">put a bird on</a> Austin Hall or anything to attend?</b><br />
<br />
Cody: I love you, Sketch. Citing “Portlandia” made my night. I
don’t know what to expect, man. I honestly don’t. Beautiful Eulogy is
not your typical hip-hop crew. So, better pull out the plaid and throw
away your razor just in case.
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/gz09EF4obYQ" width="400"></iframe>Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-26593481832762733562012-10-17T08:36:00.002-07:002012-10-17T08:36:08.276-07:00Recap: Gravity album release concert – Warehouse Live Houston (09/28/12)<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Gravity%20concert%20Houston%20092812/?action=view&current=Lecrae_Gravity_Houston_blacktee_400.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Lecrae_Gravity_Houston_blacktee_400" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Gravity%20concert%20Houston%20092812/Lecrae_Gravity_Houston_blacktee_400.jpg" /></a><strong><em> </em></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em>Lecrae takes center stage at the </em>Gravity <em>album release concert – Photo by Sketch the Journalist</em></strong></div>
<br />
Last Friday, September 28 Reach Records brought the <em>Gravity </em>album release concert to Houston to celebrate the chart-topping new project from <strong>Lecrae</strong>. This recap is already tardy so I’ll just hit you with a few quick notebook dumps, photos, and videos.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Gravity%20concert%20Houston%20092812/?action=view&current=JR_Lecrae_Gravity_Houston_400.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="JR_Lecrae_Gravity_Houston_400" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Gravity%20concert%20Houston%20092812/JR_Lecrae_Gravity_Houston_400.jpg" /></a><em><strong> </strong></em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><strong>J.R. sings “Gravity” with Lecrae – Photo by Sketch the Journalist</strong></em></div>
<h1>
On stage:</h1>
<ul>
<li> A large video wall flashing various animations throughout the show. Some were lyrics, others were simply logos</li>
<li> Opening acts included <strong>Derek Minor</strong> (fka <strong>PRo</strong>) and <strong>Canon</strong></li>
<li> <strong>Sho Baraka</strong> acted as host with <strong>DJ Official</strong> manning the turntables and Houstonian <strong>Nate Robinson</strong> on the drums</li>
<li> Song features and added hypemen included: <strong>Sho Baraka</strong>, <strong>Swoope</strong>*, <strong>Andy Mineo</strong>, <strong>Von Won</strong>, <strong>J.R.</strong>, and former <em>American Idol</em> contestant <strong>Ashton Jones</strong></li>
</ul>
* Swoope’s appearance on stage for “Fallin’ Down” seemed to
particularly animate both Lecrae and the crowd who might have let their
energy levels slip during the more ballad type songs<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Gravity%20concert%20Houston%20092812/?action=view&current=Lecrae_Swoope_Gravity_Houston_400.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Lecrae_Swoope_Gravity_Houston_400" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Gravity%20concert%20Houston%20092812/Lecrae_Swoope_Gravity_Houston_400.jpg" /></a><em><strong> </strong></em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><strong>Swoope performs “Fallin’ Down” with Lecrae – Photo by Sketch the Journalist</strong></em></div>
<h1>
<iframe width="400" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7F2Wqt4YSVo" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Biggest crowd pleasers:</h1>
<ul>
<li> “Go Hard”</li>
<li> “Welcome to H-town”</li>
<li> “Jesus Muzik”</li>
<li> “Dum Dum”</li>
<li> “Violence”</li>
<li> “Gravity”</li>
<li> “Mayday”*</li>
</ul>
* Vocalist Ashton Jones took the crowd to “church” with her soulful singing. Mainstream rapper/producer <strong>Big K.R.I.T.</strong>
appears on the recorded version but was not in town for this concert.
However, that didn’t stop Sho Baraka from volunteering to be announced
as K.R.I.T. during the performance just to see if anybody would notice.<br />
<br />
<iframe width="400" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/lWrFC9v7iis" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
The setlist appeared to go from songs that celebrate with believers
to ones that can speak to non Christians – something that mat have
simply been a factor of Lecrae parading through his back catalog of
hits before moving on to his newer, <em>Gravity </em>material.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Gravity%20concert%20Houston%20092812/?action=view&current=Tre9_Canon_Lecrae_VonWon_Gifted_400.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Tre9_Canon_Lecrae_VonWon_Gifted_400" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Gravity%20concert%20Houston%20092812/Tre9_Canon_Lecrae_VonWon_Gifted_400.jpg" /></a><em><strong> </strong></em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><strong>Backstage: Tre9, Canon, Lecrae, Von Won, and Gifted da Flamethrowa – Photo by Sketch the Journalist</strong></em></div>
<h1>
Houston represented</h1>
<ul>
<li> From the stage, host Sho Baraka gave respectful recognition to the recently departed <strong>DJ Primo</strong> (who chopped and screwed the initial 116 Clique compilation album that helped launch Reach Records)</li>
<li> As predicted, the Von Won-assisted performance of “Welcome to
H-town” was very well received. Check my video of this performance below
and be sure to stick around for the end credits.</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Gravity%20concert%20Houston%20092812/?action=view&current=DerekMinor_Canon_ShoBaraka_Lecrae_400.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="DerekMinor_Canon_ShoBaraka_Lecrae_400" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Gravity%20concert%20Houston%20092812/DerekMinor_Canon_ShoBaraka_Lecrae_400.jpg" /></a><em><strong> </strong></em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><strong>Derek Minor, Canon, Andy Mineo, and Sho Baraka came out to perform “Power Trip” with Lecrae – Photo by Sketch the Journalist</strong></em></div>
<h1>
<iframe width="400" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/JfnSp-HBZbM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Quote of the night:</h1>
“Regardless of the genre, I still have that same call we all do: to tell the world about Him” – Lecrae<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Gravity%20concert%20Houston%20092812/?action=view&current=AndyMineo_JLin_JForsett_400.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="AndyMineo_JLin_JForsett_400" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Gravity%20concert%20Houston%20092812/AndyMineo_JLin_JForsett_400.jpg" /></a><em><strong> </strong></em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><strong>Andy
Mineo posted this photo on his Instagram account hanging out backstage
with the High Society crew (top), Houston Rocket Jeremy Lin (left) and
Houston Texan running back Justin Forsett (right)</strong></em></div>
<h1>
Spotted backstage or in the crowd:</h1>
<ul>
<li> Houston Rockets star Jeremy Lin</li>
<li> Houston Texans’ running back Justin Forsett</li>
<li> Active By Faith founder and former Houston Couger basketball star Lanny Smith</li>
<li> “25 Lighters/25 Bibles” producer/rapper DJ DMD</li>
<li> Gifted da Flamethrowa</li>
<li>Corey Paul</li>
<li> Tre9 & D. Davis (who brought 30-plus kids from their Hip Hop Hope Missions efforts with them)</li>
<li> DJ Chill</li>
<li> Lita Rodi</li>
<li> World Rejects</li>
<li> DJ Millhouse</li>
<li> Hilary Jane</li>
<li> Trevor Lee</li>
<li> Lil Sizzle</li>
</ul>
Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-68188359475246726632012-10-17T08:25:00.003-07:002012-10-17T08:25:51.748-07:00Soul Deep Records and Rawsrvnt release “A Decade of Faith” to celebrate 10 years of ministry and music<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=RawsrvntDecade_400.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="RawsrvntDecade_400" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/RawsrvntDecade_400.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
On October 2, 2012 Soul Deep Records and hip hop worship artist <a href="http://www.rawsrvnt.com/" target="_top">Eddy “Rawsrvnt” Puyol</a> will release the album <em>A Decade of Faith</em> to celebrate 10 years of ministry and music.<br />
<br />
Since its inception Soul Deep Ministries (SDM), the 501(c)3
non-profit offshoot of Soul Deep Records, has shared God’s love in a
unique way to those within schools, neighborhoods, prisons, churches,
and even the entertainment industry. Its continuing goal is to empower
people from all walks of life with the understanding of God’s love and
the value He has placed on their lives.<br />
<br />
“Over the last ten years we believe we have capitalized on some great
opportunities and used them to make Jesus famous,” Rawsrvnt said. “We
trust Him for even BIGGER things as we move forward and feel this album
is a great way for our fans (who are really family) to commemorate the
ways God has used us for His glory so far.”<br />
<br />
<em>A Decade of Faith</em> offers listeners a “best yet” collection of hits from the artist and can function as both an introduction and/or celebration.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=ADecadeofFaithCover400.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="ADecadeofFaithCover400" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/ADecadeofFaithCover400.jpg" /></a></div>
Tracks include:<br />
<ol>
<li>I Gotta Feeling/Take It All</li>
<li>Jesus Jam feat. KJ-52</li>
<li>On Fire feat. Richie Righteous, Pettidee, D-Maub & Brad Dring of Rapture Ruckus</li>
<li>No Ordinary Love feat. Lisa McClendon</li>
<li>Beautiful/Be With You</li>
<li>El Shaddai feat. Thrill Da Playa of the 69 Boyz</li>
<li>The Almighty feat. St. Matthew</li>
<li>Holiness feat. Audrey Assad</li>
<li>Bow Down feat. Sean Slaughter</li>
<li>My Statement/The End feat. T Haddy & Malachi of Gideonz Army</li>
</ol>
<em>A Decade of Faith</em> is available for <a href="http://rapzilla.com/rz/listening-session/5132-album-listening-session-rawsrvnt-a-decade-of-faith" target="_top">FREE for a LIMITED TIME only on Rapzilla.com</a>.
This is SDM’s way of saying THANK YOU for 10 years of prayers and
support. It is also worldwide through all major digital outlets (iTunes,
Amazon, eMusic, etc.) Fans and supporters can follow Rawsrvnt online
through <a href="http://facebook.com/rawsrvnt" target="_top">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://twitter.com/rawsrvnt" target="_top">Twitter</a>.<br />
<br />
Purchase online at:<br />
<div>
</div>
<div>
iTunes: <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/a-decade-of-faith/id567801642" target="_top">http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/a-decade-of-faith/id567801642</a></div>
<div>
Amazon: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/A-Decade-of-Faith/dp/B009LUBGS0" target="_top">http://www.amazon.com/A-Decade-of-Faith/dp/B009LUBGS0</a></div>
Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7589046980929437044.post-29050558150410703362012-09-27T08:49:00.002-07:002012-09-27T08:49:49.712-07:005 Things You Can Expect to See at Lecrae’s Warehouse Live Concert this Friday<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/?action=view&current=2425259-Lecrae-617x409_zps18149cee.jpg" target="_top"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="aligncenter" height="332" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/2425259-Lecrae-617x409_zps18149cee.jpg" width="501" /></a></div>
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Christian rapper <b>Lecrae </b>returns home to Houston on September 28 for the last of only three release concerts in support of his new album, <a href="http://www.gravityalbum.com/" target="_top"><i>Gravity</i></a>, that landed at #3 on Billboard’s overall sales chart the week it debuted.<br />
<br />
Here are five things you’re bound to see at Warehouse Live this Friday night.<br />
<h1>
1. Snapbacks, tank tops, and homemade Lecrae t-shirts</h1>
Fashion statements from the 1990’s made a comeback this summer. And
despite almost being October, it’s still hot and muggy in Houston so
look for hats and upper body gear that appears to be missing all of its
pieces.<br />
<br />
Also, Christian rap fans can sometimes be a thrifty bunch so don’t be
surprised if you see a few youth group members getting their craft on.<br />
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<a href="http://media.photobucket.com/image/homemade/sketchwrek/Man%20Up%20Houston%20Oct%2022%202011/Homemade_Lecrae_shirts.jpg?o=0" target="_top"><img alt="" border="0" class="aligncenter" src="http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j199/sketchwrek/Man%20Up%20Houston%20Oct%2022%202011/Homemade_Lecrae_shirts.jpg" /></a></div>
<h1>
2. Bored bartenders</h1>
A good portion of Lecrae’s fanbase would consider themselves
tee-totaling churchgoers so the staff behind the bars at Warehouse Live
might be equal parts bored and frustrated with the lack of drinks sold
and dollar bills filling up their tip jars.<br />
<br />
So let me speak directly to my Christian brethren and be so bold as
to ask them to do Lecrae and Reach a solid and buy a few overpriced
beverages while you wait for him to take the stage.<br />
<br />
Yes, it sucks to spend $5 on a watered down Coke or drop a ten spot
on two bottles of water, but it will also show this non-church
performance venue that it can still be financially viable to book
faith-based acts like Lecrae.<br />
<br />
It’ll also speak well of you and your Savior if you offer a smile and generous tip to the nice folks filling up your glass.<br />
<h1>
3. Non-Christians*</h1>
But, let’s not assume that everyone standing in the general admission area in front of the microphone is a follower of Jesus.<br />
<br />
Lecrae’s efforts to expand his “reach” outside of Christian circles (through things like his guest features for <b>Statik Selektah</b>, participation in the <b>BET Cypha</b>, commercials on MTV, and interviews with media outlets like <a href="http://entertainment.time.com/2012/09/06/everything-you-need-to-know-about-lecrae-the-christian-rapper-who-is-1-on-itunes/" target="_top">Time Magazine</a>, XXL, and Allhiphop.com) have actually worked. Surely some folks who bought a copy of <i>Gravity </i>just like the guy’s sound and positive message.<br />
<br />
So if you happen to smell cigarette smoke on someone or hear a few
four-letter words fly out of the mouth of the fella in front of you at
the ticket booth, don’t go looking to report him to your pastor. Show
some grace and pray that God uses that evening’s performance to stir
something inside of him (or her.)<br />
<br />
<b>*Again, I’m speaking to my fellow believers on this one.
Also, let’s not assume that a person you don’t know but happen to see
smoke, drink, and/or curse <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><i>isn’t</i></span> a Christian.</b><br />
<h1>
4. Von Won performing “Welcome to H-town”</h1>
This one is a lock. Reach Records already confirmed that <b>Von Won</b> will be an invited guest (in addition to <a href="http://www.dasouth.com/news/24-news/10109-guest-performers-for-lecraes-gravity-album-release-concerts-announced" target="_top">these other artists</a>) and one of the biggest hits from Lecrae’s <i>Church Clothes</i> mixtape was his remix of this <b>Wit & Dre Murray</b> classic with local boy Von Won on the hook.<br />
<br />
Get familiar with it now so you can sing along and don’t be surprised
if you see some H’s in the air (I promise, they’re not gang signs or
Illuminati devil horns) when hear this beat start its slow roll.<br />
<br />
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<br />
<h1>
5. A good show</h1>
My first experience at a Lecrae concert wasn’t a good one. He talked
more than he rapped and there wasn’t anything (or anyone) on stage
besides himself and mic. Today it’s much different.<br />
<br />
Simply put, Lecrae and Reach Records can put on a good show. It’s
something they’ve studied and worked on for years (peep my interview
with Lecrae at this year’s SXSW posted below) and have gotten better at.<br />
<br />
Sure, you’ll get an uplifting, God-glorifying message, but you’ll
also get a dope hip hop performance. And breaking news: it’s okay to
simply enjoy that at face value.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/w8qcAAO3eYs" width="400"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
<b>Tickets for Friday night’s show at Warehouse Live can be purchased online <a href="http://warehouselive.frontgatetickets.com/choose.php?a=1&lid=70886&eid=80159" target="_top">here</a>. Doors open at 6pm.</b>Sketch the Journalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01277126228122671801noreply@blogger.com0