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SUNDAY BEST ALL-STAR Y’ANNA CRAWLEY RECEIVES 2 STELLAR AWARD NOMINATIONS

laprgroup — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 12:51:51 +0000

Washington, DC – Y’Anna Crawley’s freshman release The Promise garnered her two Stellar Award nominations over the weekend. Nominated for New Artist and Contemporary Female Vocalist of the Year Y’Anna continues to make a name for herself.

Known for her combination of melodic R&B and “church-girl” vocals, Y’Anna has traveled the country the past year promoting her album which has consistently ranked in the Top 50 on the Billboard Gospel Album’s chart after more than a year.

“I am truly honored and blessed to be nominated. I look forward to the future and the doors that will be opened through this experience,” says Crawley.

Inspired by the testimonials of teen and single mothers alike as to how her story has caused them to dream again, Y’Anna has been prompted to begin a non-profit organization in “THE PROMISE” Foundation. This initiative will seek to provide, health, wellness, fitness, self-esteem building, social services, as well as scholarships to single mothers in both the African American and Latino Communities.

Currently, Y’Anna is working on her sophomore project set to be released in 2012. She has also written two songs slated to be released on Angie Stone’s 2012 1st quarter release including the first single “Rich Girl” and “Do What You Gotta Do.” Crawley will also be featured on the smash hit song “Sister” which also feature Angie Stone, Tweet, and Denetria Jackson.

The 2012 Stellar Awards will take place January 14, 2012 at The Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN.

SONNYWORLD MUSIC PARTNERS WITH CENTRAL SOUTH DISTRIBUTION TO RELEASE HOLY HIP-HOP ARTIST ASON’S NATIONAL CD DEBUT, “THE FUTURE IS NOW” ON NOVEMBER 8, 2011

laprgroup — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 12:32:20 +0000

Washington, DC – With fans ranging from gospel powerhouse Fred Hammond and Radio One’s Sheila Stewart to the founder of CD Baby, Holy Hip-Hop artist ASON is winning a broad spectrum of fans. He hopes to take Holy Hip-Hop to another level with his national CD debut, The Future Is Now, that is scheduled for a November 8, 2011 release on SonnyWorld Music in partnership with Nashville’s Central South Distribution, one of the largest independent gospel distributors in the USA. Central South is known for their success in the Holy Hip-Hop arena with artists such as LeCrae.

“ASON brings a well defined-edge along the lines of Jay-z, Rakim and Nas,” says CD Baby founder Derek Silvers. Kevin Parker, co-founder of Christianhangsuite.com, an online magazine for the D.C. area, has said that ASON is helping fill the “long gap between Sundays” for many young Christians.

Born and raised in Washington, DC, ASON is not just a rapper but also a youth speaker who has shared stages with Mary Mary, Israel & New Breed and Ciara. However, when he does rap, he delivers his rhymes with precision, flow, and uplifting messages that ring with everyday truths. His first three independent CDs sold a cumulative 42,000 units and laid the groundwork for his rising stature on holy hip-hop’s underground.

Produced by Brandon Broadnax (best known for his work with 50 cent, Brandy, and Beyonce), The Future Is Now, boasts a deep R&B style. The first single, “Lay Them Down,” is currently gaining traction and impacting the radio airwaves.

CALVARY RECORDS & GREATER MOUNT CALVARY RECORDING CHOIR EARN 2 STELLAR NOMINATIONS

laprgroup — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 12:22:44 +0000

Washington, DC – The Greater Mount Calvary Recording Choir has been nominated for two Stellar Awards, the premier awards ceremony that recognizes and honors Gospel artists from across the country.

The choir based in the Nation’s capital, is nominated in the New Artist of The Year and Traditional Choir of the Year categories. This accomplishment marks another major success for the choir and their debut release Greater Mount Calvary LIVE: As Told By The Music Ministry produced by award-winning producer Steven Ford.

The Greater Mount Calvary Recording Choir debuted at # 7 on the Billboard Top Gospel Albums chart and # 20 on the Billboard Top Christian Albums chart in January 2011. They have also had success on radio with their hit singles, “He Could Have Let Me Drown,” and “He’s Worthy,” including consistent placement in the Top 100 Gospel BDS, most added song, and Top 30 on the BDS Indicator Chart.

Bishop Alfred Owens, Jr., pastor of the 8,000 member Greater Mount Calvary Holy Church says, “I am overcome with joy to see the Recording Choir achieve such a great accomplishment and excited to be included in categories with such esteemed artists. To God be the glory!”

This is the first major release of the newly formed label, Calvary Records. “We are elated about the opportunities that God has given us as we continue in this new endeavor. It is truly an honor,” says Co-Pastor Susie Owens.

This success adds to the momentum of the church’s Music Ministry over the past year including the second-place finish of the Greater Mount Calvary Men of Valor in the 2010 Verizon How Sweet The Sound competition. The Recording Choir and Music Ministry is under the direction of Elder Cornelius Young. “I am extremely proud of the Recording Choir and the continued success of our Music Ministry,” says Young.

The 2012 Stellar Awards will take place January 14, 2012 at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN.

CALVARY RECORDS SIGNS MAJOR DISTRIBUTION DEAL WITH NEW DAY CHRISTIAN AS LEAD SINGLE DEBUTS AT #28 ON BILLBOARD GOSPEL INDICATOR CHART

laprgroup — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 16:45:20 +0000

Washington, D.C. -

Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr. and Co-Pastor Susie C. Owens, founders of the newly formed Calvary Records, proudly announce a major deal with New Day Christian Distribution.

This is yet another milestone that the label has reached since its inception in 2010. Their first artist, the Greater Mount Calvary Recording Choir, debuted at #7 on the Billboard Gospel charts with their freshman album, Greater Mount Calvary LIVE: As Told By The Music Ministry. Currently, the lead single, “He Could Have Let Me Drown,” is #28 on the Billboard Gospel Indicator Chart and is maintaining a spot on the Top 100 BDS Gospel Songs Survey.

“We are so proud of the strides that we have made as a label. The Lord continues to open doors for Calvary Records and the Greater Mount Calvary Holy Church family. We look forward to working with New Day,” says Bishop Owens.

Greater Mount Calvary LIVE: As Told By The Music Ministry will be the first product released through this new relationship. This power-packed, 17-song, live set gives its listeners a front row seat to experience the fervor of a Sunday morning service at the 8,000 member Greater Mount Calvary Holy Church. This album was produced by GRAMMY-nominated producer Steven Ford.

“What an honor and privilege it is to partner with Bishop Alfred and Co-Pastor Susie Owens and the Greater Mount Calvary Recording Choir. We, the staff of New Day Christian Distribution, are excited about the endless possibilities and opportunity,” says Thomas Rollins, Director of Artist Relations at New Day Christian.

Co-Pastor Owens also expressed her excitement about the new opportunities that will result from the New Day partnership. “We are excited about the many blessings that the Lord has favored us to experience during this season. It is our sincere prayer that this relationship will serve as another vehicle to spread the message of Christ to the world.”

Greater Mount Calvary Live: As Told By The Music Ministry is now available through New Day Christian Distribution, online, and at bookstores and retailers nationwide.

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Media Contact: LaMar Ayers (202) 787-1577 or lamar@laprgroup.com
Radio Contact: Patrick Noble (678) 637-5395 or Tawanda Shamley (770) 860-0272

Veda Brown Celebrates 10yrs of Success with Black Gospel Promo

laprgroup — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 15:39:54 +0000

Black Gospel Promo’s 10th Anniversary Concert

laprgroup — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 15:37:02 +0000

Gail Holmes

laprgroup — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 15:07:02 +0000

GREATER MOUNT CALVARY RECORDING CHOIR RELEASES NEW SINGLE, “HE’S WORTHY”

laprgroup — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 16:11:33 +0000

Washington, D.C.

Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr., Co-Pastor Susie C. Owens and Calvary Records, are celebrating another success with the release of the Greater Mount Calvary Recording Choir’s new single, “He’s Worthy”, which is now impacting radio in a big way! The new single is in rotation on the airwaves across the country and is steadily gaining spins. This is the second offering from the choir behind their debut single, “He Could Have Let Me Drown”, which continues to maintain a strong position.

“He’s Worthy,” is the upbeat opening song from Greater Mount Calvary’s debut CD, Greater Mount Calvary LIVE: As Told By The Music Ministry. The song’s celebratory lyrics and infectious groove make it a perfect addition to the upbeat sound of radio stations’ new summer playlists. Moreover, the song carries a message of encouragement that is sure to uplift the hearts of listeners.

“We are facing very trying times but one of my sincerest beliefs is that, if we hold on to our hope which is in God, we can overcome any set of circumstances. “He’s Worthy,” carries this same message and it is my prayer that this song continues to receive radio attention to constantly remind people everywhere that, no matter how we feel, we serve a God who is truly worthy to be praised!” said Bishop Owens.

Greater Mount Calvary LIVE: As Told By The Music Ministry debuted at #7 on the Billboard Top Gospel Albums and #20 on the Top Christian Albums. With the continued success of their project, the Greater Mount Calvary Recording Choir will also release the DVD experience of Greater Mount Calvary LIVE: As Told By The Music Ministry this summer.

Check out the video for “He’s Worthy” on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/user/CalvaryRecords.

Jonathan Nelson presents “Too Gifted” Holiday Concert 2010 Uniting Philly to DC

laprgroup — Sat, 11 Dec 2010 18:30:51 +0000

Bishop Alfred and Co-Pastor Susie Owens Announce THE CREATION OF CALVARY RECORDS AND ITS FIRST CD RELEASE, GREATER MOUNT CALVARY LIVE: AS TOLD BY THE MUSIC MINISTRY

laprgroup — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 15:07:55 +0000

Bishop Alfred and Co-Pastor Susie Owens Announce

THE CREATION OF CALVARY RECORDS AND ITS FIRST CD RELEASE,

GREATER MOUNT CALVARY LIVE: AS TOLD BY THE MUSIC MINISTRY

Bishop Alfred A. Owens and Co-Pastor Susie C. Owens

Washington, D.C. – The esteemed Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr. and Co-Pastor Susie C. Owens, of the Greater Mount Calvary Holy Church (GMCHC), have founded a new enterprise, Calvary Records, LLC. “We are delighted about Calvary Records,” says Bishop Owens. “The label will serve as one of the many means by which people can experience the life changing and transforming power of Jesus Christ. The goal of Calvary Records is to impact the world with the message of Christ.”

The church’s well-known choir, The Greater Mount Calvary Recording Choir is the label’s first signing. Grammy-winner Steven Ford (Vickie Winans, Shirley Caesar) produced their project, Greater Mount Calvary Live: As Told By The Music Ministry, that was recorded live at the church in January 2010.

The set boasts songs such as “He’s Worthy“, “Christ Did It All“, and the first radio single, “Daily I Shall Worship Thee” that features Co-Pastor Susie Owens. Bishop Alfred Owens takes the spotlight as the soloist on the track, “God Is Worthy To Be Praised.” The CD will be released online and in selected retailers nationally on January 4, 2011. Pre-orders of the project will begin December 1, 2010 online at www.greatermountcalvarylive.com.

“Not only is the project a reflection of GMCHC, but also an extension of the ministry,” Co-Pastor Owens continues. “It’s important that we reach everyone we can,” she says. “I think you can touch so many more people outside of the pulpit through music. Music travels so far. It’s our job to move beyond the podium and try to reach not just the saved but the unsaved.”

Founded in 1966, GMCHC has been nicknamed “the church in the hood that will do you good” and boasts over 100 ministries.The music ministry is under the direction of Elder Cornelius Young, Minister of Music and Tammy Ellard, Associate Minister of Music.

GMCHC is also the home of 2010 How Sweet The Sound finalist, the Greater Mount Calvary Men of Valor, who won the V Cast People’s Choice award on Saturday, November 13 at the Verizon Center in Washington DC.

For more information visit greatermountcalvarylive.com or calvaryrecords.net

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Media Contact: LaMar Ayers (202) 787-1577 or lamar@laprgroup.com