Strictly speaking, he's not that 'new' as he's been part of the UKG machine for quite a while. Nevertheless it's great to get his take on 2009. Be nice to him...
With each passing year, it's often the case that we compare and contrast the successes of the ending year with those of the previous one.
The very same trend applies to us here at UKGospel.com; we take a break from our heavy production load and team meetings to reflect on what has caught our attention over the last 365 days.
In 2008, the emergence of Guvna B, the New D Crew's impressive debut and Simply Andy's massive Bibles, Bibles track were some of the highlights which we hoped could be emulated in 2009. So, after a quick brainstorming session and some help from Mr UKGospel, its time to take a look at my highlights in Gospel in 2009 ...
In 2009 I found myself spending less time withdrawing my bank card
for albums and instead pressing Right Click and “Save Target As”.
The amount of free music has been a blessing in both the quality of
material as well as in saving money with the recession hitting the UK
shores early into the year.
For me the biggest highlights were Forever Christ’s 'J.U.S.T.I.F.I.E.D Mixtape' and E-Tizz’s 'Sound of My Soul' (pictured).
Both contained some of the scene’s best production and lyricism, and put many purchased albums to shame in comparison with their quality.
'MTV Gospel' may still be a long way off, but that
didn’t stop UK gospel music getting to us through
the TV and the web.
The One To One show anchored by Michael
Owusu (right) on Genesis TV became a 9pm
regular for me as it showcased the scene’s finest
performing live.
OHTV also provided an Uprise, as its Gospel Garage cipher series and 'An Evening with Guvna B' specials kept gospel on the screen and online.
Whilst the huge ‘Next Ting 140’ events by Guvna B gained coverage on the mainstream Grime scene’s ‘Grime Daily’ site, Victizzle was introduced to the wider world on BBC 1Xtra’s 100% Homegrown Show with Ras Kwame’s, long before he went on to win his MOBO Award, further showing that Gospel music will be acknowledged if the quality is in the product.
We all have our favourite artists for different reasons. Some may
appreciate how high their notes can reach whilst others favour their
production merits.
For me, the definition of a true artist depends on whether or not they
can create an album which screams quality, entertainment and
professionalism.
Thank God many of 09’s albums left a lasting mark on myself and the scene. I have many highlight from the year: from Karl Nova’s ‘Just As I Am’ to Michaela: Birth of Poet’s imaginative, wit-filled ‘Fixing Barbie’ debut (photo).
With Victizzle and Tunday’s albums dominating the summer, it was FaithChild’s ‘Illumination’ album which arrived late in December that set the scene alight.
I write this section with much guilt as I ashamedly attended less
than half of the events I’m about to mention. Nevertheless, there
were a number of high turnouts for many gospel events in 2009.
GL Live again showcased the biggest names in Gospel Music
including international artists Lisa McClendon and Da T.R.U.T.H
as well as Brit based acts such as Simply Andy and E-Tizz.
Arguably the biggest dates in the calendar was the international
sensation Fred Hammond arriving in the UK for tours of London
and Birmingham.
In addition, many of our homegrown heroes’ album launches
provided highlights, including Victizzle and Tunday’s joint
launch at London’s Ocean, and Michaela’s Pink + Black Party and album release events.
And even without releasing a new album, Guvna B was on hand to provide two concerts and brought together the top talents for his Next Ting 140 showcase at the new Black Grape music venue.
A few of my personal highlights from 2009
Attending both of the UKG Mixer Sessions.
This is an informal, workshop-style training session
for anyone looking to break into the media industry,
facilitatated by UKGospel.com's Yinka Awojobi,
with contributions from the UK gospel industry's
figures.
Hopefully I can convince Yinka to do some more in 2010!
The explosion of Twitter!
Who would have thought a 140 word block would lead to an organic growth between friends, artists, celebrities and the industry as a whole!
My recommeded person to follow? Karl Nova! (photo). Aside from his music, his mind also continues to inspire! Discussing issues which your Pastor would shy away from, not to mention carrying a wit as broad as his smile, Karl is one of the leading guys in the Twitworld who assures you that being a Christian in the new millenium is as fun and
controversial as ever.
Plus: he responds to your tweets - unlike celebrities X, Y or Z!
Venues: Black Grape Music Venue & Gastro
Bar.
This is the place to be if you love live music
accompanied with some fine Afro-Carribean food!
Music streaming: Spotify and WE7.
Need I say more?
The year 2009 treated us to more great albums, live shows as well as the gradual ascendance towards the mainstream.
To me, 2009 exceeded many dwindling expectations of where UK Gospel was heading.
So what can we expect in 2010? All I can imagine is that the 'levels' will continue to rise in EVERY area of the the UK Gospel scene.
Henry contributes to the UK gospel industry through album reviews, scriptwriting, interviews, podcasts or mingling with the scene's movers and shakers.
He also critiques and rambles on all things gospel on the blog.
A radio obsessive, Henry’s aim is to have his ideas and creations transcend through your DAB radio.
Follow Henry on Twitter: @Henryx85
Published 2 March 2010
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HI YINKA
Hope you are coming down to the Invisible Indusry discussion today 17 June organised by BBMC/Kwaku..? You do know about it, yeah? It is FREE and starts at 6.30 to 8.30 at 365 Brixton Road, (next to Police Station). Black British Gospel Music: An Invisible Industry? I am on the panel. Will be lively and very practical with outcomes, no talking shop for those like me who hate talking shops! So see you down there.... on time of course (:-)
Andrea
Hey Andrea!!
You're too kind. Got your email as well.
Will try and call you in the next few days to get the ball rolling.
.
As regards your presence on this site: LOOOOONG over due!!
.
You can also check out the blog for more frequent updates!
.
Speak in the next few days...
Hi Yinka
Soooooo good to see you and Muyiwa and meet Nage at Premier Gospel last Wed. So glad you guys are representing. Someone just called me for info about the 'gospel scene in London' so you know I need to put a UKgospel banner on my site... and I've got to have a presence on yours... so let's stop talking about it and do it yeah? lolol! Coffee, Southbank Centre? Soon? So much to share. Who said UK Gospel is dead? I can't get my head around all the stuff that is happening. Well done for pulling it together on these pages... and there is still more.
Much love
Andrea
Hello and welcome, George! Hope you like what you see!
.
For more on the UK scene check out the UKGospel.com Blog and to get the music check out www.UKGShop.com
.
Let me know what you think...
.
Yinka
Your audio delivery is TIGHT!! OMG! I was blown away. I was delighted to hear the plethora of information you were able to deliver and I was quite entertained by your personality. I have been looking for a sight that would inform me about what is hapening in the UK Gosple community. Good Stuff!
Yinkus, so happy 2 c u living out ur passion in God. U've always been a swell DJ! I rejoice with u!!
Happy New Year everyone.
.
You've been absolutely *awesome* in your support of the UKGospel.com project throughout 2009.
.
I'm just one guy trying to support the fantastic work I see going on around me....
.
Your response and encouragement STILL bowls me over!!
.
On behalf of the UKGospel.com Team, thank you, thank you, thank you again!
.
Yinka
Hiya Faith, Thanks for the message. I left a message here for someone from Victoria's team to get in touch a while ago. If you're in touch with them can you ask them to send me an email to info@ukgospel.com. Thanks!
Peeps, I love the highlights about Victoria. Coincidentally, I saw her sing live at Rapture hosted by Angie Le Mar a few weeks ago. She is indeed amazing. Unfortunately and surprisingly, I don't think UK Gospel appreciate people that are not rappers that much. God bless.
LOL!! I love this campaign from Victoria Adexa's camp! Nice one, guys! :-) Can you get her management to email me at info@ukgospel.com with 'Victoria A' in the subject line, pls..? Thanks in advance!
Hello Sir,
When will we be hearing more on that artist the lady below mentioned? I also heard Victoria Adexa singing at the London Youth on the Front Line 09. That lady and her band were on FIRE!!!!!!!! You NEED to feature this one!!! Peace
Hi, what a great web site. very proud of princess melodicaah. keep the good work ukgospel.com.
Hello UK Gospel.com,
I must say I am very impressed with your site! Well done. The only thing is I would like to see you feature an amazing artist I discovered recently. ...Victoria Adexa, I dont know if you have heard about her before, simply amazing! She brings a unique jazz element to the UK gospel scene. It would be nice to have a little info on her on your site. Blessings
The artists I was talking about was Princess Melodicaah...wow
This artist is so fresh...I saw her perform at a recent gospel event and she was so different. The mixture of Hip Life and R&B i gospel...look out for her
Sorry for the delay, bro. Check your inbox. You've got mail....
Hello bro.Yinka,
I did send you the email as you said to the email you gave me as I have not heard anything I'm just wondering if you received it?
Message in your inbox. Sorry for delay...
ok, thnx uncle yinka. so am i to get a message in my e-mail inbox?
I will thanks bro. Yinka
Hi Elisha,
Thanks for your post. You can reach me at info@ukgospel.com
Bro. Yinka, can I post our music video from the album 'Judgement Day' here as well?
Hey,Glory be to God for your life bro. Yinka, I have just discovered this website yesterday. Praise God! We would like an advert space to promote our CD album.
This is the link to my Facebook page
@ Princess Melodicaah what's your website/Facebook/MySpace address...?
uk contempory afro beats gospel artist lolooking for platforms to perform material...any help please.
Hey Lashae. I apologise. That was my fault. I've passed your request on to Leanna
hello, i messaged leanne on the 'contact us' box and i haven't gotten a reply. am i doing something wrong?
Hey Liz! Thanks so much for your message. I REALLY appreciate the support!
Thanks, Janice! Look forward to it! LOOL @ knowing what I look like!
Uncle Yinka!
I finally know what you look like! LOL Putting something in the post for you this week. Bless! Janice
Well done Yinka for keeping the flag waving for UKGospel Music. I will be getting a definitely be getting a copy of 'Sons of Light@ Keep up the good work... high quality professionally produced music which as you state is up there in the same quality of mainstream music
Xn drummer looking to start up a gospel reggae band to spread the message of Jesus Christ. R u up for it? Den call me and let's get the party started. 07745060494
Really love the site! Keep updating us :--)
Thanks - See you there
@Cosmic06
Hi Claud. I'm on Twitter. Find me at http://twitter.com/ukgospel
Those UK Gospel have a twitter account?
You're very welcome. Thank you so much for the support! Much appreciated!
Yinka ! You are just too much. Thanks for the seminar of today on Radio presentation
Thanks Thanks thanks
Yinka, work hard. Oh yes and work hard..nuff said
Hey Paul! Haven't got your email add. Email me at info AT ukgospel dot com
Yinka, please contact me! You have my email address? Paul
@ Mel: always good to have you back, sir...
@ Andrea: sorry for delay in response. Will be in touch soon - promise! (",)
Hey Yinka, It's about time I took another trip to your site....lots of info and downloads. Thanks
This site is looking super! Thanks for keeping the webface of UK gospel alive and fresh! Thanks for the promotional platform that we couldn't pay you enough for. Which reminds me that I need to buy some advert space from you.... please send me rates. Oh yeah... did we ever meet up? I don't think so. Coffee on you.
@ Tayme Tee: thanks for the compliment on the photo. Not one of my better ones (it's slightly out of focus), but it will do for now... :-)
@ Karl: keep keeping on, sir. Privilege to support!
@ Quadosh: thanks for stopping by. Can't wait for Tryumf's 777 too! Gonna be BIG!!!
@ Lanre: good to see you here! LOL @ cause you can!
@ OJ: thanks, Sweetie..
@ Shabazz: just started work on it, General. Will let you know.
@ Dave P: thanks for stopping by! UGN forever, sir!
listening in from work....
site's looking good
General Yinka,
How you doing sir? Thanks for the Uprise feature. Very Big!
Have you placed the interview online yet mate?
BIG UP UKG..Just drop to say, plus to add my radio station..LOL
One has to try
thanks for the support man! thanks again
I can't wait for Tryumf's 777 to be out. I've heared some tracks and i'm ready for the fire! oooohhh weeee! :) Big ups to UKGospel.com
just signing in.... just cos I CAN!! lol!
liking the Pic sir!!!
Well done :-)
@ Jo: Fantastic to see you here!! Thanks for stopping by!
@ Roger: thank you sir, we're trying to represent properly by recording and reporting the great work that people like you do...
Much appreciated!
its been a while, but I'm back checking your site, & whats on & where!!! x
Great site!
Hey Dave!
Same as usual, bro... Just working hard...
How are ya?
What's up bro, how's the world of UK Gospel?
Hey Phillp!
Thanks for stopping by!
Much appreciated, sir...
This site is a lovely initiative. Keep up the good work
No prob, CM!
Speak soon!
Hi Yinka! CM here....soooo much info man its great to have a centralised place for gospel news right here in the UK...I've got a few questions for ya so you'll be hearing from me soon :o)
Keep up the good work!
CM
Yes, Michael!
I was waiting on you, man! Bell me, and let's make it happen!
Yes Uncle Yinka!
I've definitely warmed up to v1.5 now!
I'm loving the content and layout even more so!
When are we hooking up! February has come and nearly gone!
Speak soon
Thanks, Guvna! Speak soon, bro...
Thanks everyone. Appreciate the support. Yinka will phone you tonight.
I Like It.
Looks Good.
You're very welcome.
All done. Have a look and let me know what you think.
I've sent the details to you Sir.
Thanks so much for your generosity.
My goodness, where do I start?? THANKS, people!!
Lisa: I don't hear from you for a while, and then you come by I write an essay. I love you! (",)
Andrea: we need to bring your decades-old service to the industry to a new generation - I feel an interview coming on...
Rach OK: you just keep doing your thing, girl. I got your back from back in the day. Ain't stopping now
Maya: you KNOW it's all love, sweerie.
Juliet: when (not if) our industry fully engages with the mainstream at an industry level, it'll be down - at least in part - to your tireless effort
Dave P: UGN forever, sir!
DJ Yemi: you've always been there for me since we hooked up. Thank you, Uncle!!
MRI: send me that banner so I can stick it on the site, man!! LOL!
Lanre: when's the next GK Real album??? You lot are keeping us waiting!
Henry: thanks for your support, sir!! Much appreciated!!
Karl: thank God O!! Album go soon drop!!
Mel: thanks for stopping by, sir!!! Great to have your comments!
Antony: good to see you here! Still not sure about the picture, though!! (",)
I realise it's been waaaay too long Yinks,too bogged down by the 24/7 I guess, so please accept my awkward apologies for the late shout out. As for YOU - you're unstoppable!! I was on here lurking the other day n i thought, must drop u a line to thank you for believing in the UK Gospel voice to inspire such a HUGE output. This site alone is ALOT. People need to remember this is YEARS in the making and now we're soo blessed by the upgrade. (Haha months go by without a word and now I write an essay in your comments box lol!!)
I don't know how you do it. No, in fact I DO know how you do it lol!! I'm encouraged and will try not to be a stranger, one of these days I'm gonna be back on it. Well done bro, you and all these artists I'm listening to in this mixtape is PROPER stirring me...its deep! I need to get back ON IT LOL!! Bless you and all yours! Lisa x
Great stuff Yinka and George. This site is all I need to bring me up to date with all the fresh artists in UK gospel. I'll make it a favourite!
All ways moving onwards and upwards for the Lord! God bless ya Uncle Yinka!!!
Hi Yinka!
Just had to stop by & leave a comment to let you know how much I'm loving the new look of your great site ...keep up the God work ;0)
You know I love you most, not because of your talent or skills, but because of your beautiful, big servant heart!!! (Yes, let the whole world know! lol...)
Stay blessed & a blessing bro,
Nuff respect & much love always...
Maya
This is an excellent version of your impeccable work. If this site symbolises the effort we need to make and the success we can achieve - then our future is BRIGHT The value goes way beyond money. A genuine building block in the UK Gospel Industry. I loook forward to contributing and consuming!
Juliet Fletcher - GreenTree/Gospel Grand Summit
Well bro, you have done it at last. You know God has been really good to you on this awesome project. I hope people come to understand the work that has gone into UKG, and the respect you have for UK Gospel music and media. I pray that God will continue to bless my good friend, you have made another great mark for us all. Keep up the good work man of God, both you and your family.
Dave P
Choice Fm & Colouful Radio
Urban Gospel Network
Uncle..this one is so so nice oh....well done sir..as usual..everything you run and do is excellent.
This is a good look!
Great Job Sir.
God Bless.
i love it!!!!! hehehehehe... weelll i was a bit late on this. Saw your FB status and thought i better check this out! welldone brov, you keep inspiring us to be more and do more...
WOW The site looks fantastic!!! well done very 2009 and good to no you have a picture there....lol lol even if you didn't want it at least its so small i had to get a magnifying glass
Your workrate is unbelievable Sir, I can only applaud and be inspired with the stuff you're doing! Love the new layout and you know already what I think of your audio :D will speak soon Uncle, God bless you and your family for your hard work!
MR UK GOSPEL DOES IT AGAIN. A REAL LEADER!
you are a true legend godfather! I love this and the fact that you keep going and upgrading inspires me!
Karl Nova has spoken
Hey Yinka, Love the new site. I'm glad you put your pic...it's good to put a face to the name. Here's to even greater things for 2009. BLESS!!
Hello Mrs UKG... Kiss and cuddles for you tonight...
Hey Dieon: thanks for the feedback! LOL @ Quality Street! At least it sounds like you liked all the sweets UKG is serving up!
Listening to the Artist Focus audio - SoL
Cor Mr A, when I clicked in, thought I was in a tin of "Quality Streets", I didn't know which one to pick first!! :o)
It looks 'clean' and 'exciting'. I Love the 'Latest News' section, great way to keep us 'current'...it will definitely Carpe diem (my)!
Thanks for the comments people - keep 'em coming.
Now that the site is live, tell me what you want, and I might just be able to make it happen for ya!
THIS IS LARGE! The UKG machine Never fails to impress me man, the audio is serious, all them drops from all those people!! UKG FOREVER!!! That logo is printed in the minds of THOUSANDS! God bless you!
I like it! Very clean look to it all, plus hitting various form of media (video, audio, text etc). AND works on iPod Touch (except the flash bits, but that's Apples fault ,not yours)
I am loving this and highly anticipating the developmental stages..at the risk of sounding cliche, I say Keep it up bruv...
Updating UKGospel.com and curious as to how people will respond to it....
Founder, UKG/ UKGospel.com group of sites.
I really didn't want my picture here, but I'm bowing to pressure.
Freelance journalist, all-round nice guy.
Has a weird obsession with international gospel music.
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'ello uncle! Just passing by and catching up on the site...! Loving the new angle on prayer on PG, def. def def it goes a long way in encouraging many folks you guys reach out to daily. Pls keep up the good work - God bless sir.