" . . .[D]on't ever give up trying to do what you really want to do. Where there is love and inspiration, I don't think you can go wrong."
--Ella Fitzgerald
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Friday, September 02, 2005
Memoirs of a Music Man
In this article from The Washington Post, former music critic David Segal writes about the great Live Concert Moment. I'd like to offer a disclaimer--Segal's article doesn't come from a Christian worldview, and there's some language here--but I thought it was really interesting and offers a lot of food for thought.
A few questions: What's the best Live Concert Moment you've ever experienced at a gospel concert? How can gospel artists balance the need for a well-planned show with the need to be open to the spontaneous and unpredictable move of God's Spirit? (Whoo . . .ministry and industry. . .Here we go . . .) What does good showmanship look like in a gospel context? For example, how do you put on a good show, but avoid making a show of the gifts of the Spirit?
I've been in concert environments where the shouting and speaking in tongues seemed very choreographed. It's difficult to know what to think in these situations, especially because they don't take place in the sort of ministry environment that can be interpreted by a church or pastor, or within a denominational context. It's not quite the same thing as being in someone's church, or in a service that is being guided by a trusted spiritual leader who has a set of identifiable beliefs that guide a particular church ("Well, they are (fill-in-the-name-of-Denomination), so that expression tends to guide their worship style."). So what does discernment look like in situations like this? Where's the line that is or isn't to be crossed?
Comment away!
A few questions: What's the best Live Concert Moment you've ever experienced at a gospel concert? How can gospel artists balance the need for a well-planned show with the need to be open to the spontaneous and unpredictable move of God's Spirit? (Whoo . . .ministry and industry. . .Here we go . . .) What does good showmanship look like in a gospel context? For example, how do you put on a good show, but avoid making a show of the gifts of the Spirit?
I've been in concert environments where the shouting and speaking in tongues seemed very choreographed. It's difficult to know what to think in these situations, especially because they don't take place in the sort of ministry environment that can be interpreted by a church or pastor, or within a denominational context. It's not quite the same thing as being in someone's church, or in a service that is being guided by a trusted spiritual leader who has a set of identifiable beliefs that guide a particular church ("Well, they are (fill-in-the-name-of-Denomination), so that expression tends to guide their worship style."). So what does discernment look like in situations like this? Where's the line that is or isn't to be crossed?
Comment away!
The Spirituals Project Featured on Religion & Ethics Newsweekly
If you missed the recent airing of the Religion & Ethics Newsweekly program featuring Dr. Arthur Jones and The Spirituals Project, check it out here. It's great to see this worthy project getting some attention.
Dr. Arthur Jones image credit: pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics
Gospel Memories--and Hurricane Relief
This weekend, Bob Marovich's "Gospel Memories" Broadcast on Chicago's 88.7 WLUW (2:00-6:30 a.m. CST, live webcast) will feature Gulf Coast Gospel--vintage gospel music from Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida. Marovich's intention is to honor those affected by the hurricane. Bob's blog also features some info regarding fundraisers the gospel community will hold to help affected GMWA members, including Bishop Paul Morton, whose church and home were affected. These fundraisers are currently in the planning stages, but I will provide updates as I receive them.
Bob will also include a musical tribute to Cora Martin-Moore, the daughter of Sallie Martin.
Bob will also include a musical tribute to Cora Martin-Moore, the daughter of Sallie Martin.
Cracking Me Up
"Excuse Me (If I Sound Like Marvin Winans)" by comedian Broderick Rice, available on Gospel Skate Jams, Vol. 1 (Malaco). Absolutely hilarious--and a featuring an affectionate, spot-on imitation of Winans by Rice. I've played this track over and over, and it cracks me up, every time.
Broderick Rice image credit: primetimepromotions.com
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