GCMA XChange - January 2023

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Contactustodayformoreinformationregardingtheawardsplatformprocess,yourmarketingand advertisingneeds,aswellashowtogetyourcontentorinformationpublishedinthemagazine. We areheretohelpcelebrate,educate,andpromotetheindependentgospelartistsweserve.

Christian Comedian E-Boogie was born and raised in Washington, DC. He loves the Lord and is a born again Christian. The Lord has put him on this earth to make the world laugh (Proverbs 17:22). He has been interviewed Praise 104.1 FM, the “Erica Campbell and Griff Morning Show.” He appeared on BET Comic View and Total Christian Television. Comedian E-Boogie has opened up for some of today’s gospel artists including Fred Hammond, Donnie McClurkin, and Tasha Cobbs-Leonard to name a few.

He is anointed and ministers through humor in a very unique way. His powerful testimony is shared through exciting and energetic comedy. The Creator has endowed him with the gift of laughter that he loves to share all across the country as it brings healing humor into the lives of people where God sends him.

E-Boogie’s favorite quote which he always shares says “I didn’t get saved to be sad.” The ministry of humor that God infused into his being touches others because they can relate to him as he shares his life story through comedy. It repeatedly brings healing, laughter, excitement, encouragement, and healing to his audiences.

Comedian E-Boogie’s gift from God is a ministry called “Heling Humor” and it’s anointed, blessed, prosperous, favored, energetic, hilarious, clean, unique, appreciated, and loved.

He remains humble and continues to allow God to use him in a way that only God gets the glory!

Contact & Booking Info christiancomedianeboogie@gmail.com or (202) 292-8837 Are You Ready To Laugh?

Multi-Award Winners & Nominees • 36th Annual Stellar Awards Winners for Quartet Artist of the Year 52nd and 53rd Dove Awards Consideration • 65th Grammy Awards Consideration

Young Men 4 Christ (YM4C) music ministry was brought forth in the year of 2012, with the intent to touch the very heart of GOD by succumbing to the call and mandate on their life; to lead people to a true place of worship and praise. The group consists of nine greatly anointed men of God born and raised in Detroit: Eric Johnson Sr., Frank McGee Jr., Frank McGee III (lead singer) Min. Eric Johnson Jr. (2nd lead singer), Min. Deveon Gross, and Cordell Nelson Jr; musician staff: Lance Wilson MD & drummer), Tony Stanford (keyboardist & bass), Allen Stanford (bass), Joshua Turrentine (Organist & keyboardist), and Aaron Meyer (Lead Guitar). Together they create a matchless heavenly sound that inevitably take their listeners to a place of heartfelt worship and praise to God Almighty.

In December of 2012 Young Men 4 Christ displayed their heart of worship in their community by donating to a charitable event called SASYO (Sow a Seed Youth Organization). The group hosted their 1st Christmas Charity Event, which became an annual event that consist of local gospel groups participating in donating toys and non-perishable food items for the less fortunate children in their community.

Young Men 4 Christ have shared the stage with some of the greatest quartet groups such as “Doc McKenzie and the Hi-Lites, The Jackson Southerners, The Canton Spirituals, Paul Porter, Rance Allen and many more. In January 2013 they released their demo CD named “Why Not Jesus” Part One, which consist of three grand hits. The CD was so popular that it landed on many of Detroit’s gospel radio stations, countless times; it is currently being played on national and international stations. On July 7th 2013 their entire CD project was released at their one year anniversary celebration in Detroit. The concert featured Lisa Knowles & the Brown Singers and a host of other well-known quartet groups. On February 8th, 2018 a 2nd CD project was released entitled “FULFILLED” ‘Feel the Music from Within’; with that featuring 2x Stellar Award winner Lisa Knowles-Smith and Stellar Award Nominee Josh Myles. On September 11th, 2019 an EP (extended play) was released entitled “ELEVATION”; with six new songs bringing a new flavor, rich sound, and traditional quartet charisma.

The Lord has also brought forth many award nominations and awards as well... To name a few the 2019 and 2020 Male Group of the Year for the (Texas Gospel Music Excellence Awards), 2019 Artist of the Year Traditional and 2019 Record of the Year “Saved By Grace” for the (S&M Gospel Indie Awards). 2019 Quartet of the Year for the (South Florida Gospel Music Awards) 2020 Key of Gospel Music and Ministry Award winner (Quartet Group of the Year) and Rhythm of Gospel Awards 2020 (Male Quartet Group of the Year & Special Event CD of the Year); also 2021 (Male Quartet Group of the Year & Quartet CD of the Year) … 2021 River Award Winner (Quartet of the Year)… Most recently selected as a finalist of the 2021 36th Annual Stellar Awards for Quartet of the Year and on Friday July 9, 2021, in Nashville, TN they became the winners of 2021 36th Annual Stellar Awards Quartet Artist of the Year Award. They are this year’s 2021 Detroit Choice Awards Honorees and have received multiple nominations for the 2021 Premiere Gospel Music Awards and won Artist of Year, Montgomery, AL. They have received 2021 and 2022 Dove Awards Consideration and 2022 65th Grammy Awards Consideration.

Young Men 4 Christ stated that their goal is to use their music to minister to all with a youthful and matured sound, while giving a traditional Gospel quartet feel. They intend on living out the legacy of past and present gospel quartet singers. They have linked up with Alternative Management and Marketing Group; enabling them to further their ministry and fulfilling their ambition to turn the world right side up by spreading the gospel and spiritually influencing people of all ages.

FOR BOOKING AND MORE INFORMATION

Attn: LaVell R. Nero

P.O. Box 442072 ● Detroit, MI 48244

O/M: 313-618-8791 ● Fax: 313-473-8131

Email: LRNero@altmgtmktg.com

Facebook: @Alternativemmg ● Twitter:@altmgtmktg1

Instagram:#altmtgmktg1 ● www.altmgtmktg.com

Follow Us

Facebook: Detroit Young Men Four Christ

Twitter: @youngmen4christ

Instagram: theofficialym4c

YouTube: Young Men 4 Christ

Website: www.youngmen4christ.com

Happy New Year Gospel Choice Family! Wow, what a great 2022! We, collectively, accomplished many things last year, and now we’re moving on to our new goals. BlueMile Music Consultants is excited to be back another year to share some great tidbits and nuggets with you. Let us start off asking this question. What is your PLAN for 2023? As artists, we must be strategic and intentional in our planning. In our music career, yes this is a career, we must make sure that we PLAN and execute strategically what we have set out to do. This will take you sitting and buckling down at your table, your desk, or wherever makes you comfy, and work out your PLAN for the year.

When should you release your music? We’re glad you asked. New music equals first quarter. It has been said that January or February is ideal for indie artist to release music because the month of March is the most / busiest month for the music community, in the first quarter. In our music world, releasing music on a Friday has become the industry standard (for obvious reasons). So, if you have new music to release, Friday is going to be your best friend.

When should you start your marketing? If releasing a single, give yourself at least a month to create a musical buzz. If you are releasing an EP, give yourself 3 to 6 months to create a musical buzz. Some artists hire a publicist, and some of us use the DIY method. Either way, you have to let the music community know you have music. Remember this is your BRAND. Get your brand out to various media platforms, i.e., blogs, magazines, press tours and maybe even interviews. It’s all about creating a buzz!

What is your budget? Well, it may vary depending on the goals you have set for your release. Consider marketing and promotions, distribution, radio, social media marketing, and operations, just to name a few. Don’t forget to track your expenses. Some artists use spreadsheets, a basic word document, or various apps. It’s your choice. These things will help you have a successful release.

Blue Nuggets: “Preparationandfaitharethekeystounlockthedoorofsuccess.”

To book consulting services with BlueMile Music Consultants, LLC

 Follow us on all social media outlets

 Check out our website, www.bluemilemusic.com

 Catch the talk show every other Tuesday night @8pm on Facebook LIVE, YouTube @bluemilemusic and on the OnPoint Channel TV Network

What’sYourPlanin2023

A Man of Integrity with a Voice

James C. Birdsong, Jr. is without a doubt one of today's leaders and voices in the Gospel music industry and entertainment arena. A native son of Richmond, CA at the corner of Maine Avenue and Harbour Way South, the 42-year-old continues to be an inspiration and impact among people of all ages and nationalities around the world, especially today's youth. A multi-gifted and talented Gospel vocalist, songwriter, minister, published author, motivational speaker, entrepreneur and youth advocate, his efforts have caught the attention, admiration and respect of politicians, community, religious, media, entertainment leaders and luminaries.

A member of the renowned famed Birdsong family, his lineage includes R&B legend Cindy Birdsong, a former member of Patti LaBelle and the Bluebells and the Supremes, former fourtime NBA All-Star pro basketball player Otis Birdsong and the late Edwin Birdsong, a GRAMMY®-Award winner and legendary 1970s era funk keyboardist, who’s music has been sampled by Kanye West, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige and Dalf Punk. Dr. Birdsong's great uncle was the late Rev. Sidney Birdsong, Sr., a respected icon who served as the pastor of the historic Solid Rock Baptist Church in Los Angeles, CA. He is in the process of recording a project and launching a Gospel label for aspiring artists to proceed on the national platform.

An alumnus of Fairfield High School in Fairfield, CA, Dr. Birdsong earned his Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Education at Beulah Heights University in Atlanta, GA. He earned a Graduate Certificate in Marketing at the University of Phoenix in Phoenix, AZ, the Doctor of Sacred Music and the Doctor of Sacred Letters (Honoris Causa) from New Covenant International Bible College in Columbia, SC. He is in the process of completing the remaining courses for the Master of Science in Leadership at Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ.

Dr. Birdsong is the recipient of more than 40 awards and honors throughout the United States and abroad ranging from the Gospel music industry to members of Congress recognizing his tireless efforts of contributions to music, community service, leadership abilities and mentoring today's youth. He received a congratulatory letter from President Joe Biden, the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award, a Kingdom Image Award for Influencer of the Year, a multi-listee in Marquis Who’s Who in America, two Newsome Awards for Humanitarian and Promoter of the Year and two Texas Gospel Music Excellence Awards nominations for National Promoter of the Year.

He is an inductee on the Wall of Tolerance at the Civil Rights Memorial Center in Montgomery, AL and the National Society of Leadership & Success in Miami, FL. Mr. Birdsong is a member of national organizations in the music industry such as the Gospel Music Workshop of America (Atlanta Chapter), the Stellar Awards Gospel Music Academy (SAGMA), the Gospel Music Association (GMA), the Gulf Coast Gospel Music Awards (GCGMA), the Gospel Artist Music Association (GAMA) and the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM).

He is also a Member-At-Large of the NAACP and serves on the Advisory Board for the Audio/Visual/Technology & Film Program at Benjamin E. Mays High School in Atlanta, GA

A Man of Integrity with a Voice (cont’d)

.Dr. Birdsong serves as the Founder, President & Executive Director of Birdsong Association of Broadcasting & Arts, Inc. (BABA), a 501©(3) nonprofit organization in Atlanta, GA with additional operations planned for Los Angeles, the District of Columbia (DC/MD/VA) and New York City. The organization helps today’s African American youth in K-12 grade become successful artists, songwriters, producers, engineers, record label executives, actors, actresses, playwriters, education, media personalities and entrepreneurs by developing programs, initiatives, workshops, scholarships, productions, partnerships with local school districts and HBCUs and events. He is definitely a man of integrity with a voice.

CONTACT INFORMATION: www.jamescbirdsongjr.net

Birdsong Association of Broadcasting & Arts: www.babaonline.org

Booking Inquiries for Appearances: Gloria Brown, Administrative Assistant to James C. Birdsong, Jr. admin-assistant@jamescbirdsongjr.net

Media Inquiries for Interviews: Yolanda McIntosh, Publicist/PR - Miz Mac Marketing, LLC. mizmacmarketing@gmail.com

Photo Session Credits:

Photography – Emily Heath Photography

Makeup Artist – Kiana Clay

Haircut – Bryan Lomax

Photo Studio – 5380 Studios, Stone Mountain, GA

Wardrobe – Georgi 2009, New York City, NY

Rise Up… Don’t Give Up

Eloise Ristad wrote “When we give ourselves permission to fail, we at the same time give ourselves permission to excel.” Persistence is "the quality that allows someone to continue doing something or trying to do something even though it is difficult or opposed by others." Perseverance is "Steadfastness in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success. Being persistent is a skill that anyone can develop. Do you give up too soon? If so, where's your determination? Why quit? Try again and if you fail, try once more. Keep trying as many times as it takes.

A baby doesn't give up every time he falls while learning how to walk. He pulls himself up and tries again. He never stops trying to walk. He keeps trying for as long as it takes. It never occurs to him that he might fail. So he repeats the process despite the bruises and bumps along the way. Now, what about you? Do you give up too soon and too often? How many times have you pulled yourself back up when you've been bumped and bruised? Maybe, you even set yourself up for failure? (self-sabotage.) Most of us are guilty of this at one time or the other. It all starts with our thinking. Thoughts of fear, doubt, and failure begin to invade the mind - just like the enemy. Most successful people have failed at one time or another, and some have failed many times. Those who succeed learn from their failed attempts and persist. They realize that failure is the road to achievement. Failure is simply a price we pay to succeed. “We cannot become what we need to be by remaining what we are.” (Max DePree)

His name is Brandon Hunt. He is my grandson. Brandon lost his beloved father to cancer at the age of 7. His mother had abandoned the family long before the death of his dad. Brandon and his siblings were without parents and a home with his father gone. Relatives did their best to help out. An aunt eventually managed to take them in. After a few years, hoping he could have a relationship with his mother, he moved in with her. But at age 15, Brandon was left homeless. His mother threw him out with nowhere to go. A school friend took pity on him and gave him a place to sleep. Despite his painful, lonely life, he persisted day after day. He graduated with honors and became the captain of his football team. He would not give up. He wanted to make his father proud of him. He joined the United States Marines and found a skill in which he excelled. Today, that skill provides him with a job he loves, plus an endless supply of friends. What an example of perseverance. He kept making the right choices in his life through insurmountable challenges. Brandon could have easily given up on life, but he chose to rise above every obstacle despite everything. What about you? Do you want to give up when life deals you a lousy hand? Or do you pick yourself up, take a deep breath, and move upward?

What is perseverance? It is persistent determination. Even reading or hearing the word perseverance will give you energy and packs a powerful punch. Perseverance is the foundation of great achievers, the cornerstone of talent, and the brother to determination. Determination can be found in every walk of life and every age. We succeed because we are determined to succeed, not destined to succeed.

I think many of us are determined people. We keep practicing our craft over and over again. We want to become better writers, singers, teachers, mechanics, and parents. The most outstanding achievers don't simply sit back and wait for success to come along. These achievers keep moving forward and persevering because they are determined. There's just no getting around it; persistence is the key to success.

“Persistence, tenacity, determination, and staying power are the ingredients of perseverance.”

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