 Are you ready for another year of great music in Dallas, Texas? The Riverfront Jazz Festival is back for the 3rd year and once again, with a great line up of musical artists to enjoy over the Labor Day Weekend.
blues, R&B and soul music. Also, there was a stage for Promising Young Artists from Dallas/Fort Worth, showcasing youth from area schools and music programs in day-long back-to-back performances. GET YOUR TICKETS TO THE 2019 RIVERFRONT JAZZ FESTIVAL2019 ARTIST LINEUPFOR A COMPLETE LIST OF ARTIST TIMES GO TO: tbaalriverfrontjazzfestival.org FRIDAY |
| FREE TO THE PUBLIC JUNE 22, 2019 NORCROSS, GA All concerts begin at 7:30 PM Grammy nominated guitarist, Rod Harris Jr. FUTURE DATES July 27th- Greg Robbins & Remey Williams August 17th- The 4 Korners & YemiConga September 28th- Unknown Lyric | |
'Defend The Flame' Record Release
| | Friday, June 21, 2019 9:15 PM EDDIE'S ATTIC 515-B North McDonough St. Decatur, GA FOR TICKETS: GARETH ASHER AT EDDIE'S ATTIC |
4th Annual Jazz Matters At The Wren’s Nest
Summer Concert Series
Relax, relate, release at the 4th Annual Jazz Matters At The Wren’s Nest summer concert series in Atlanta’s Historic West. Enjoy musical performances, by regional, national and international artists, highlighting the diversity and cultural roots of jazz music, and musical genres influenced by it.
WEBSITE: JAZZ MATTERS
JUNE 21, 2019 JAZZ, BLUES & BBQ – CHANDRA CURRELLEY, YONRICO SCOTT & THE BARRY REDMOND BAND
Ticket Prices:
Advance Lawn Seating $25 / Gate $30
Advance Table Seating $300 / Gate $350
Advance Lawn Seating $25 / Gate $30
Advance Table Seating $300 / Gate $350
- Rain or Shine Event
- Bring your chairs or blankets
- Food, beverages and small tables are allowed
- No grills or large tables
- We can only accept credit/debit cards at the Gate. NO CASH
- Gates open at 7:00p
| Affordable theater June 9, 2019 Atlanta locations Atlanta Fringe Festival includes 20 theater shows by “adventurous artists” at six venues, plus parties.Car-free streetsJune 9, 2019 multiple locations You can walk, run, or bike down the middle of the road during Atlanta Streets Alive, which offers free entertainment and activities for all ages on three days.
Peachtree Corners Festival June 9, 2019 Peachtree Corners Festival [website has sound] features craft & food vendors, entertainment, live music, car shows both days, and kids’ activities. Free. Scottish festival June 9, 2019 Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games is about athletic games, bagpipes and drums, Scottish dancing, food, music, and historical demonstrations in Blairsville. No pets or alcohol.Free concerts in Sandy Springs June 9 - Sept. 8, 2019 (7 to 8:30 p.m.) Concerts by the Springs are held on one Sunday a month at Heritage Green, 6110 Blue Stone Road. Bring food and drinks, or buy them onsite. Beach chairs and blankets are welcome. Free. Atlanta attractions June 9 - Sept. 30, 2019 multiple locations These discount prices include all taxes and fees.
Free movies - parks June 11 - Sept. 6, 2019 multiple locations See free films outdoors at Georgia Movies in the Park in Canton, Cumming, and Dawsonville.
A surprising play about race June 12 - 30, 2019 Can a racist who is thrust into an African-American family be changed and redeemed? Hands of Color “examines the issue of racism and how it is inevitably dismantled and unraveled in the face of pure love and innocence” at Synchronicity Theatre.Ticket deal $15 Free movies - Mableton June 12 - July 24, 2019 See an outdoor movie at the Free Movie Series at Mable House Amphitheatre. | Oliver June 13 - 23, 2019 Oliver is a popular musical about a London orphan, based on the classic book Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens, at Jennie T. Anderson Theatre in Marietta.Ticket deal $15 to $29 Free movies - Atlantic Station June 13 - 27, 2019 (Thursdays 8 p.m.) Atlanta city parks Watch Movies in the District beginning at dusk (usually 8:30 p.m.). It’s best to arrive early with a blanket or lawn chair. Free. Family puppet show June 13 - July 28, 2019 True love prevails in this new version of Beauty and the Beast, which “hip-hops its way into a modern day city complete with alley cats, beauty shops, and exercise videos” at the Center for Puppetry Arts for age 4+.Ticket deal $12 The story of Pocahontas June 13 - Sept. 1, 2019 Pocahontas is about to leave her beloved home in Virginia to begin a new chapter with her husband in England, in this play that “explores self-reflection and healing by reconnecting to one’s past” on the forest stage of Serenbe Playhouse in Chattahoochee Hills.Ticket deal $15 Garden party for adults June 13 - Oct. 24, 2019 (Thurs. 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.) Cocktails in the Garden invites you to explore the garden each week as you stroll with a cocktail, hear live music, and play games at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Admission fee, cash bar. Latin music June 14, 2019 (8 p.m.) Club Babalú features a vocalist backed by Frankie Quiñones and the Atlanta Salsa All-Stars, followed by a dance party at Aurora Theatre in Lawrenceville.Ticket deal $10 African-American music & parade June 14 - 16, 2019 Juneteenth is a free three-day music festival with vendors and children’s activities at Home Depot Backyard. On Saturday, a parade leaves Gordon Terrace SW at 10 a.m. and follows MLK Drive to the festival. The festival ends Sunday night with fireworks. Short plays in Hapeville June 14 - 23, 2019 Tapas IV: The Great Divide is a festival of 10-minute plays performed by the Academy Theatre at Hapeville Performing Arts Center.Ticket deal $13 Schoolhouse Rock June 14 - 23, 2019 Your favorite campy childhood jingles like “Just a Bill” (video) and "Conjunction Junction" come to life during Schoolhouse Rock Live at Act1 Theater in Alpharetta.Ticket deal $15 Concerts in the Garden June 14 - Aug. 25, 2019 See national acts at Concerts in the Garden at Atlanta Botanical Garden. You can pre-order food on the website. The concerts on July 27 & Aug. 25 are in Gainesville. |
Free concerts in Sandy Springs
June 14 - Sept. 27, 2019 (Fridays 6:30 p.m.)
Bring a blanket or lawn chair, food and drinks (except alcohol, which is sold onsite), and money for food trucks to City Green Live for free concerts on select Fridays.
Ghost Tours
June 14 - Sept. 28, 2019
Ghost Tours feature “Lawrenceville’s most interesting places and the stories behind its most bizarre events, hauntingly told with the charm and personality of a real Southern storyteller.” This 90-minute walking tour goes one mile and departs from Aurora Theatre.Ticket deal $6
| Hip hop show June 15, 2019 0.6 miles SW Birthday Bash ATL will be held at State Farm Arena. Summer beer festival June 15, 2019 (4 to 8 p.m.) 1.7 miles NE A ticket to Atlanta Summer Beer Fest includes samples of 200 kinds of beer, wine, and cider, with live music and food for sale at Historic Fourth Ward Park for age 21+. Fried chicken festival June 15, 2019 (12 to 6 p.m.) 2.5 miles NE ATL Chicken + Beer Festival [formerly ATL CluckFest] promises the “best fried chicken dishes” from 25 restaurants at Piedmont Park. Your ticket includes three samples of 3 ounces each, and you also can purchase full servings. Mississippi picnic June 15, 2019 11.7 miles north Mississippi in the Park has live music and authentic food (fried catfish, chicken nuggets, coleslaw, corn nuggets, hushpuppies, tea, and cake) at Chastain Park. Blues concert June 15, 2019 (7 p.m.) 16 miles SW An Evening Under the Stars Blues Festival features Tucka, T.K. Soul, Lenny Williams, Nellie Tiger Travis, and Willie Clayton at Wolf Creek Amphitheater.Ticket deal on the lawn $59 Lantern parade June 15, 2019 18 miles north Attend a lantern-making workshop, or bring your own lantern, or just watch the Sandy Springs Lantern Parade, which goes from Steel Canyon Golf Club to Morgan Falls Overlook Park. People gather at 7:30 p.m. and the parade begins at 9 p.m. Free. Caribbean festival June 15, 2019 (1 to 8 p.m.) 31 miles SE McDonough Caribbean Cultural Festival features live music, food, vendors, games, and a kids’ zone in Alexander Park. Free. Women’s drama/comedy June 15 - 29, 2019 7.6 miles NE Nine women show up for a baby shower in the idyllic city of Morningside, each with her own secrets and emotional issues to resolve at OnStage Atlanta.Ticket deal $10 to $12 Concerts in Alpharetta parks June 15 - Sept. 14, 2019 (Saturdays) 24.9 miles north Bring a blanket and a picnic to hear “family-friendly performances by different Alpharetta based entertainment groups” at Brooke Street Park Summer Concert Series. Free. Father’s Day restaurants June 16, 2019 Greater Atlanta OpenTable lists restaurants that offer special brunch, lunch, and dinner menus on Father’s Day. Father’s Day tasting June 16, 2019 0.9 miles south Family Food Fest Atlanta offers food tasting and live R&B music at Georgia Railroad Freight Depot. Father’s Day at the Zoo June 16, 2019 4 miles NW Dad enters free with any regular adult or child ticket purchase on Father’s Day at the Zoo at Zoo Atlanta. Shakespeare for families June 19, 2019 32 miles NE Midsummer Jr. is a 45-minute version of the comedy “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” performed by Atlanta Shakespeare Company with puppets, live music, and silly props at Aurora Theatre in Lawrenceville.Ticket deal $5.50 Monthly family festival June 20, 2019 (5 to 9 p.m.) 22 miles north Alive in Roswell has live bands, food trucks, craft beer, vendors, kids’ games, entertainment, and socializing in three locations connected by a free trolley (on Canton Street, in Roswell Square, and behind city hall). Free. Shakespeare comedy June 20 - July 14, 2019 0.6 miles north As You Like It is a romantic comedy of mischievous misunderstandings, pleasing poetry, and hilarious happenings at Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse.Ticket deal $8 to $19 Summer jazz June 21, 2019 (8 to 11 p.m.) 3.9 miles SW Hear great jazz once a month this summer during Jazz Matters at The Wren’s Nest.Ticket deal for lawn seating $13 Beach party in Decatur June 21, 2019 (5 to 11 p.m.) 6 miles NE The Decatur Beach Party [formerly Summer in the City] has 80 tons of sand on the street, kids’ activities, live music, food trucks, beer, and wine. Mostly free. | Athens festival June 21 - 23, 2019 70 miles NE AthFest Music & Arts Festival has 50 musical acts, an artists’ market, a club crawl, and a KidsFest in Athens. Tony Award for Best Play June 21 - July 7, 2019 18.6 miles NW A black family moves to the white side of Chicago in the classic 1950s drama “A Raisin in the Sun.” Now see the same family just prior to their move (in Act 1) and 50 years later (in Act 2) of the 2010 play Clybourne Park at Marietta’s New Theatre in the Square.Ticket deal $19 Burlesque light show June 22, 2019 (9 p.m.) 3 miles NE Watch eight acts that all feature light in some way, including LED lights, black light, and fire, during Illicitly Illuminated at the Red Light Cafe for age 21+.Ticket deal $10 Canadian party June 22, 2019 (noon) 16.3 miles north Come celebrate Canada, eh? Atlanta Canada Fest features Canadian food, Canadian musicians, and street hockey for the kids at Meehan’s Public House in Sandy Springs. Children under age 16 are free. Paddleboard race June 23, 2019 20.7 miles north Stand Up for the Hooch is a race that goes 2 and 6 miles on the Chattahoochee River from Morgan Falls Overlook Park in Sandy Springs. Free for spectators. Uplifting musical June 25 - 30, 2019 1 mile north With incredible kindness, the people of Newfoundland welcomed 7,000 airline passengers stranded for days when all flights were grounded on 9/11. Come from Away “is a musical that changes you, heals old wounds, and lifts the spirit” at Fox Theatre.Ticket deal $30 French dinner & cooking class June 28, 2019 (7 to 9:30 p.m.) 14.6 miles north Begin with wine and appetizers, help the chef prepare dinner, and then dine with wine and dessert during the $90 Classic Cut Series: Parisian Steak Bistro at Vino Venue in Dunwoody. Men vs. bulls in Gainvesville June 28 - 29, 2019 53 miles NE Watch talented bullfighters trying to win points by exhibiting style and control as they maneuver around and jump over bulls in the Bullfighters Only Southern Classic at Chicopee Woods Agriculture Center.Ticket deal $15 (VIP $25) Patriotic concert June 28 & 30, 2019 21 miles north A choir and symphony perform patriotic classics at the Patriotic Celebration Concert at Roswell United Methodist Church. Free but get tickets in advance. New classical music June 29, 2019 (12 to 10 p.m.) 2.1 miles east Watch six performances of “music that’s vibrant, engaging, and not yet widely known” at YInMn Atlanta [formerly New Music Festival], surrounded by visual art in Whitespace Gallery. Donation. |
Hip hop
June 29, 2019 (8 p.m.)
12 miles north
Grammy winner Common performs his hit songs plus new selections with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra in the amphitheatre at Chastain Park.Ticket deal $56 to $64
June 29, 2019 (8 p.m.)
12 miles north
Grammy winner Common performs his hit songs plus new selections with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra in the amphitheatre at Chastain Park.Ticket deal $56 to $64
Father’s Day at the Zoo
June 16, 2019
4 miles NW
Dad enters free with any regular adult or child ticket purchase on Father’s Day at the Zoo at Zoo Atlanta.
Shakespeare for families
June 19, 2019
32 miles NE
Midsummer Jr. is a 45-minute version of the comedy “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” performed by Atlanta Shakespeare Company with puppets, live music, and silly props at Aurora Theatre in Lawrenceville.Ticket deal $5.50
Monthly family festival
June 20, 2019 (5 to 9 p.m.)
22 miles north
Alive in Roswell has live bands, food trucks, craft beer, vendors, kids’ games, entertainment, and socializing in three locations connected by a free trolley (on Canton Street, in Roswell Square, and behind city hall). Free.
Shakespeare comedy
June 20 - July 14, 2019
0.6 miles north
As You Like It is a romantic comedy of mischievous misunderstandings, pleasing poetry, and hilarious happenings at Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse.Ticket deal $8 to $19
Summer jazz
June 21, 2019 (8 to 11 p.m.)
3.9 miles SW
Hear great jazz once a month this summer during Jazz Matters at The Wren’s Nest.Ticket deal for lawn seating $13
Beach party in Decatur
June 21, 2019 (5 to 11 p.m.)
6 miles NE
The Decatur Beach Party [formerly Summer in the City] has 80 tons of sand on the street, kids’ activities, live music, food trucks, beer, and wine. Mostly free.
June 16, 2019
4 miles NW
Dad enters free with any regular adult or child ticket purchase on Father’s Day at the Zoo at Zoo Atlanta.
Shakespeare for families
June 19, 2019
32 miles NE
Midsummer Jr. is a 45-minute version of the comedy “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” performed by Atlanta Shakespeare Company with puppets, live music, and silly props at Aurora Theatre in Lawrenceville.Ticket deal $5.50
Monthly family festival
June 20, 2019 (5 to 9 p.m.)
22 miles north
Alive in Roswell has live bands, food trucks, craft beer, vendors, kids’ games, entertainment, and socializing in three locations connected by a free trolley (on Canton Street, in Roswell Square, and behind city hall). Free.
Shakespeare comedy
June 20 - July 14, 2019
0.6 miles north
As You Like It is a romantic comedy of mischievous misunderstandings, pleasing poetry, and hilarious happenings at Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse.Ticket deal $8 to $19
Summer jazz
June 21, 2019 (8 to 11 p.m.)
3.9 miles SW
Hear great jazz once a month this summer during Jazz Matters at The Wren’s Nest.Ticket deal for lawn seating $13
Beach party in Decatur
June 21, 2019 (5 to 11 p.m.)
6 miles NE
The Decatur Beach Party [formerly Summer in the City] has 80 tons of sand on the street, kids’ activities, live music, food trucks, beer, and wine. Mostly free.
Written by: Jermaine Sain
| Back in September of 2018, I received an invitation to come to Dallas, Texas, for an event. While planning my trip to Dallas, I got the bright idea to see if I could network with ANYONE in the Dallas area while in town. I'm always looking for creative was to network and since I'll be there....might as well take advantage of it. While looking for things to do in the city, I found an event | |
called The Riverfront Jazz Festival, presented by The Black Academy of Arts and Letters. If you know anything about me, then you know that I enjoy concerts and festivals. Plus, the concert had a long list of artists the I enjoy, like Erykah Badu, Rahsaan Patterson, Rachelle Ferrell, Lalah Hathaway, and many more.
Then the idea came to me....why not see if you can obtain credentials to this event so that way you can meet some great people in the area plus have footage for your next video.
Needless to say, we did just that and we had a blast but there was one person that I wanted to see perform that I didn't get to see because her performance was happening during the time of the event that I was in Dallas for. That person was Rhonda Ross.
Needless to say, we did just that and we had a blast but there was one person that I wanted to see perform that I didn't get to see because her performance was happening during the time of the event that I was in Dallas for. That person was Rhonda Ross.
 |  |
FAST FORWARD
| | After I left Dallas and was now back in Atlanta, it continued to bother me that I didn't get an opportunity to check out Rhonda's performance so I went on her website to see if she would be on tour any time soon and if so, would I be in any of the cities during that time. Of course the first city I looked for was Atlanta but I didn't see anything. Then I noticed that none of the other cities and dates matched with my schedule, so I was like "Oh well...maybe one day". |
Then, around maybe March of this year, I started looking up the artist for the Atlanta Jazz Festival, which we have now covered for the last 3 or 4 years, and to my surprise, Rhonda Ross and Rodney Kendrick was listed as one of the performers! Immediately I was like, "Lord, this must be my opportunity"......then I was like forget this "I want to feature her on a segment of What Do YOU Speak?".
The month of April rolled around and I was going back and forth about reaching out to her because I was so afraid that she would say no.......but then finally I decided to put down my fears and reach out to her management. To my surprise, she said YES!!!!!
I gave you that long story to say, don't allow your fears to hold you back from what may be one of the most life changing events in your life!
I had so much fun speaking with Rhonda and she was so super cool and down to earth! I feel so blessed for this opportunity and I hope that this interview inspires you!!!!
What Do YOU Speak?
The month of April rolled around and I was going back and forth about reaching out to her because I was so afraid that she would say no.......but then finally I decided to put down my fears and reach out to her management. To my surprise, she said YES!!!!!
I gave you that long story to say, don't allow your fears to hold you back from what may be one of the most life changing events in your life!
I had so much fun speaking with Rhonda and she was so super cool and down to earth! I feel so blessed for this opportunity and I hope that this interview inspires you!!!!
What Do YOU Speak?
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 | Riverfront Jazz Festival- Dallas, TexasCome along with me, Jermaine Sain, and When We Speak TV, to the Lone Star State for the annual Riverfront Jazz Festival, in Dallas, Texas, presented by Visit Dallas, The Black Academy of Arts and Letters, and many more great sponsors. READ MORE |
 | French Quarter Festival- New Orleans, LouisianaThe French Quarter Festival is the largest showcase of Louisiana music in the world. READ MORE |
 | Atlanta Jazz Festival- Atlanta, GeorgiaThe Atlanta Jazz Festival (hosted by the City of Atlanta) is celebrated the entire month of May at several venues in Atlanta. The Festival ends with multiple concerts on Memorial Day Weekend at Piedmont Park in Atlanta. READ MORE |
It's that time of the year again! It's time for Jazz In The Alley, a free jazz concert held in Norcross Georgia.
The 2019 Jazz In The Alley has a full male line up that is guaranteed to keep you entertained, starting with Grammy nominated guitarist, Rod Harris Jr, on June 22, 2019.
The 2019 Jazz In The Alley has a full male line up that is guaranteed to keep you entertained, starting with Grammy nominated guitarist, Rod Harris Jr, on June 22, 2019.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ROD HARRIS JR:
Website: rodharrisjr.com
Facebook: RodHarrisJrLive
Instagram: @rhjguitar
Website: rodharrisjr.com
Facebook: RodHarrisJrLive
Instagram: @rhjguitar
| Held in historic Norcross, Georgia, (Betty Mauldin Park), Jazz In the Alley has an upward attendance of 1,000. Did we mention that it's FREE? That's RIGHT! Thanks to generous sponsors like the City of Norcross and Peachtree Awnings, so bring your entire family. | |
2019 Jazz In The Alley Artists LineUp
June 22nd- Rod Harris Jr
July 27th- Greg Robbins & Remey Williams
August 17th- The 4 Korners & YemiConga
September 28th- Unknown Lyric
July 27th- Greg Robbins & Remey Williams
August 17th- The 4 Korners & YemiConga
September 28th- Unknown Lyric
Held in historic Norcross, Georgia, (Betty Mauldin Park), Jazz In the Alley has an upward attendance of 1,000. Did we mention that it's FREE? That's RIGHT! Thanks to generous sponsors like the City of Norcross, Peachtree Awnings, and Elite Behavioral Medicine, so bring your entire family.
2019 Jazz In The Alley Artists Lineup
June 22nd- Rod Harris Jr
July 27th- Greg Robbins & Remey Williams
August 17th- The 4 Korners & YemiConga
September 28th- Unknown Lyric
July 27th- Greg Robbins & Remey Williams
August 17th- The 4 Korners & YemiConga
September 28th- Unknown Lyric
PREVIOUS JAZZ IN THE ALLEY HEADLINERS
JULIE DEXTER | EMRAH KOTAN | JAE FRANKLIN | ERIC THOMAS |
From: emrahkotan.com
Emrah Kotan is a classically trained percussionist who came to the United States from his native Turkey and received a Master's degree in Jazz Studies from Georgia State University. His debut album, The New Anatolian Experience, is a collection of original compositions and arrangements that fuse world music and jazz, creating stylistically sophisticated vibes and a genuine model of personal artistic expression.
After playing some of the most renowned venues in the world such as the Istanbul Jazz Festival, Playboy Jazz Festival and The Blue Note in New York, Emrah is one of the most sought after musicians in the Atlanta music scene. His unique musical ability transcends many genres and cultures. He is involved in various musical projects, including his own, and is the drummer/percussionist for Grammy award winning artist, India.Arie.
Emrah Kotan is a classically trained percussionist who came to the United States from his native Turkey and received a Master's degree in Jazz Studies from Georgia State University. His debut album, The New Anatolian Experience, is a collection of original compositions and arrangements that fuse world music and jazz, creating stylistically sophisticated vibes and a genuine model of personal artistic expression.
After playing some of the most renowned venues in the world such as the Istanbul Jazz Festival, Playboy Jazz Festival and The Blue Note in New York, Emrah is one of the most sought after musicians in the Atlanta music scene. His unique musical ability transcends many genres and cultures. He is involved in various musical projects, including his own, and is the drummer/percussionist for Grammy award winning artist, India.Arie.
| Aside from performing, Emrah is an enthusiastic music educator who has conducted master classes and has taught many students over the years, some of which who have been awarded music scholarships by the colleges of their choice. Emrah teaches students of all ages privately and is the Director of the Jazz and World Percussion Ensembles at Agnes Scott College. | |
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BET NETWORKS ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF ALL INSPIRING GOSPEL COMPETITION SERIES, “SUNDAY BEST,” FOR ITS NINTH SEASON
 |  |  |  |
(NEW YORK, NY) – April 18, 2019 – After a four-year hiatus, America’s most inspirational singing competition, “Sunday Best,” makes its triumphant return to BET, as a new and improved Season 9 takes over Sunday nights beginning in June. The well-established gospel show welcomes back Grammy Award®-winning music legend Kirk Franklin as host, gospel songstress and host of "Get Up Mornings," Erica Campbell as a judge; and adds two Grammy-Award® nominated artists Kelly Price and Jonathan McReynolds as new additions to the panel. With a brand new stage and exciting themed challenges, this season will be the toughest one yet.
The new season kicks off with in-person auditions in front of the judges as they narrow the field from 20 to the top 10. For the first time the contestants were able to use an online submissions process, after which the team lead a global search for this year’s contestants, leading up to the much-anticipated live auditions in Dallas, TX, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, GA, and Detroit, MI, Lagos, Nigeriaand for the first time-ever London, England and Johannesburg, South Africa, which were open to select international contestants.
Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment (BET Awards, The New Edition Story), will serve as executive producer of season nine of Sunday Best along with showrunner Josh Greenberg (The Sing-Off, Lip Sync Battle). Dionne Harmon (The Bobby Brown Story, Hip Hop Squares) and Jeannae Rouzan–Clay (Dear Mama, Black Girls Rock!) and are co-executive producers.
For updates and more information about “SUNDAY BEST”, please visit BET.com/SundayBest. Join the conversation on social media by logging on to our social media platforms using the hashtag: #BETSundayBest.
The new season kicks off with in-person auditions in front of the judges as they narrow the field from 20 to the top 10. For the first time the contestants were able to use an online submissions process, after which the team lead a global search for this year’s contestants, leading up to the much-anticipated live auditions in Dallas, TX, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, GA, and Detroit, MI, Lagos, Nigeriaand for the first time-ever London, England and Johannesburg, South Africa, which were open to select international contestants.
Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment (BET Awards, The New Edition Story), will serve as executive producer of season nine of Sunday Best along with showrunner Josh Greenberg (The Sing-Off, Lip Sync Battle). Dionne Harmon (The Bobby Brown Story, Hip Hop Squares) and Jeannae Rouzan–Clay (Dear Mama, Black Girls Rock!) and are co-executive producers.
For updates and more information about “SUNDAY BEST”, please visit BET.com/SundayBest. Join the conversation on social media by logging on to our social media platforms using the hashtag: #BETSundayBest.
“SUNDAY BEST” PREMIERES SUNDAY, JUNE 30th ON BET IN THE U.S.A.
AND INTERNATIONALLY BEGINNING SUNDAY, JULY 7th
KIRK FRANKLIN (Host)
 | Since making his debut in the early 90s, Kirk Franklin has established himself as a trailblazer and icon in contemporary music. He first burst onto the world stage with Kirk Franklin & The Family, forever changing the look and sound of gospel music. Since then, Franklin has sold over 10 million albums worldwide and written and produced timeless, genre-bending music for himself and other artists earning numerous awards and accolades, including fourteen GRAMMY's and forty-three Stellar Awards. With a career spanning over 25 years, he continues to break new ground and make indelible contributions to popular music. Franklin will release his 13th studio album, LONG LIVE LOVE, on May 31st. |
ERICA CAMPBELL (Judge)
| A 5x Grammy Award winner who has released two solo albums as well as seven albums with her sister as part of the dynamic duo “Mary Mary.” Erica Campbell has received numerous awards and accolades. Her debut solo album “Help” topped the charts for several weeks and won the 2015 Grammy Award for Best Gospel Album as well as earned 8 Stellar Awards. Campbell recently released her first duet "All Of My Life," with music-producer husband Warryn Campbell. Erica continues to elevate as a multi-media star and is the host of the highly-rated nationally syndicated radio show "Get Up! Mornings with Erica Campbell” that can be heard weekdays 6am-10am EST in over 40 markets. |  |
KELLY PRICE (Judge)
Kelly Price has forged her own career path in music, when she first earned the reputation as one of the industry’s most sought-after songwriters, before becoming a 9-timeGrammy-nominated artist in her own right. Her first two albums, Soul of a Woman and Mirror Mirror both went platinum and launched Price to R&B prominence. Proving versatile off the stage, Price has now pivoted to television, and stars as a series regular in BET’s hit series American Soul, recently picked up for season 2. The project brought Price’s career full circle as “Soul Train” was the first national broadcast appearance of her career, and her first industry award when she took home the Soul Train Awards trophy for Best New Artist.
JONATHAN MCREYNOLDS (Judge)
| A Dove Award-winning, 3-time GRAMMY® nominee, 8-time Stellar Award winning, NAACP Image Award nominee and Billboard Music Award nominated gospel singer-songwriter based in Chicago, IL. At just 29, Jonathan McReynolds has released three full length studio albums and one EP, holds a Masters in Theology from Moody Theological Seminary and is currently an adjunct member of the Columbia College faculty on top of his work as an official contributor to Huffington Post. He is also the founder of Elihu Nation, a nonprofit organization that promotes wisdom and recently awarded $30k in scholarships. He was recently named a new member of Mensa, an international high IQ society, as well. McReynolds also serves as an ambassador for Martin Guitars. |  |
ABOUT BET NETWORKS
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; BET HER, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET’s growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe.
ABOUT JESSE COLLINS ENTERTAINMENT
Jesse Collins Entertainment (JCE) is a full service television and film production company founded by entertainment industry veteran Jesse Collins. For more than a decade, Collins has played an integral role in producing some of television’s most memorable moments in music entertainment. Collins has produced groundbreaking and award winning television programming including the BET Awards, the Grammy Awards, Soul Train Awards, BET Honors, UNCF An Evening of Stars, ABFF Awards and the BET Hip Hop Awards. Collins was an executive producer of the hit TV series, Real Husbands of Hollywood starring Kevin Hart, the critically-acclaimed The New Edition Story, a biopic on the boy band that aired as a 3-part mini-series on BET in January 2017, posted record ratings for the network and attracted nearly 30 million viewers. He is also the executive producer of VH1 shows Dear Mama and Hip Hop Squares with Ice Cube. He has appeared on the cover of Vibe magazine and has been featured in numerous publications including Billboard and Ebony magazine. Most recently JCE executive produced The Bobby Brown Story. The mini-series picked up where The New Edition Story mini-series left off and chronicled the talented but troubled singer’s exit from the popular ’80s boy band through his solo success. It debuted on BET in September 2018 ad was the highest rated non-tentpole program on the network since The New Edition Story. Next for JCE is the second season of American Soul on BET and Netflix’s upcoming series Rhythm and Flow.
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; BET HER, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET’s growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe.
ABOUT JESSE COLLINS ENTERTAINMENT
Jesse Collins Entertainment (JCE) is a full service television and film production company founded by entertainment industry veteran Jesse Collins. For more than a decade, Collins has played an integral role in producing some of television’s most memorable moments in music entertainment. Collins has produced groundbreaking and award winning television programming including the BET Awards, the Grammy Awards, Soul Train Awards, BET Honors, UNCF An Evening of Stars, ABFF Awards and the BET Hip Hop Awards. Collins was an executive producer of the hit TV series, Real Husbands of Hollywood starring Kevin Hart, the critically-acclaimed The New Edition Story, a biopic on the boy band that aired as a 3-part mini-series on BET in January 2017, posted record ratings for the network and attracted nearly 30 million viewers. He is also the executive producer of VH1 shows Dear Mama and Hip Hop Squares with Ice Cube. He has appeared on the cover of Vibe magazine and has been featured in numerous publications including Billboard and Ebony magazine. Most recently JCE executive produced The Bobby Brown Story. The mini-series picked up where The New Edition Story mini-series left off and chronicled the talented but troubled singer’s exit from the popular ’80s boy band through his solo success. It debuted on BET in September 2018 ad was the highest rated non-tentpole program on the network since The New Edition Story. Next for JCE is the second season of American Soul on BET and Netflix’s upcoming series Rhythm and Flow.
SUWANEE JAZZ FEST ARTISTS
Bringing together a broad and diverse range of jazz artists, the Suwanee Jazz Fest is an entertaining evening at Suwanee Town Center Park attracting jazz enthusiasts, local business owners, mass communications outlets, and arts connoisseurs annually in Suwanee, Georgia.
When We Speak TV would like to show our appreciation to The City of Suwanee Georgia, The North Gwinnett Arts Association, and all the sponsors for their continued support of visual and performing arts and we will speak with YOU at the Suwanee Jazz Fest.
Show to Feature a Presentation of the All-New Aretha Franklin ICON Award & Appearances by Kelly Price, Brian Courtney Wilson, Charles Jenkins, Erica Campbell, Jekalyn Carr, Jonathan McReynolds, Kelontae Gavin, Koryn Hawthorne, Maranda Curtis, Regina Belle, Todd Dulaney, Anthony Brown,
JJ Hairston & Yolanda Adams
JJ Hairston & Yolanda Adams
 Kelly Price |  Brian Courtney Wilson |  Charles Jenkins |  Erica Campbell |
 Jonathan McReynolds |  Jekayln Carr |  Kelontae Gavin |  Maranda Curtis |
Special Good Friday Premiere on BET April 19 at 8 p.m. ET/7p.m CT
and 10 p.m. ET/9 p.m. CT*
The Biggest Night in Gospel Music Set to Tape Live on Friday, March 29, 2019
at the Las Vegas Orleans Arena
and 10 p.m. ET/9 p.m. CT*
The Biggest Night in Gospel Music Set to Tape Live on Friday, March 29, 2019
at the Las Vegas Orleans Arena
Central City Productions today announced a sensational line-up of performers and presenters for The 34th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards presented by AT&T, including a posthumous tribute to the undisputed Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. The exhilarating all-star tribute performance by Kelly Price, Regina Belle and Erica Campbell will be followed by a presentation of the Aretha Franklin ICON Award. Gospel prince, Kirk Franklin, will return to host the live show taping at Las Vegas’ Orleans Arena on Friday, March 29, 2019.
For the first time since 2005, The Stellar Awards telecast will premiere on BET on Friday, April 19 at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT and again at 10 p.m. ET/9 p.m. CT. The biggest night in gospel music will also feature rousing performances by Brian Courtney Wilson, Charles Jenkins, Jekalyn Carr, Jonathan McReynolds, Kelontae Gavin, Koryn Hawthorne, Maranda Curtis and Todd Dulaney.
Stellar Awards Executive Producer and Founder, Don Jackson shared, “It was 35 years ago when Aretha performed ‘Precious Lord’ on my very first Gospel Music television special ‘Living the Dream.’ In recognition of Aretha’s roots in Gospel Music and her continuing love for the genre, I am delighted that our executive committee agreed to present her with our ICON Award posthumously and continue to present the award forever in her name as the Aretha Franklin ICON Award.”
Among this year’s presenters are Anthony Brown, Yolanda Adams, Dr. Bobby Jones, DeVon Franklin, Janice Gaines and JJ Hairston. As previously announced, The Stellar Awards nominees with multiple nominations include Jonathan McReynolds, Maranda Curtis, Todd Dulaney, Jekalyn Carr, Koryn Hawthorne, Snoop Dogg, Tori Kelly, Bishop Noel Jones & City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir, Jarell Smalls and Company, Kelontae Gavin and Tasha Page-Lockhart.
This year’s Stellar Awards will recognize gospel music royalty who have made substantial contributions to the genre with special honors. Legendary gospel singer Delores Washington Green of The Caravans will receive The Ambassador Dr. Bobby Jones Legends Award. Stellar Honors Hall of Fame Inductees include Jackie Patillo (Dove Awards), James Robinson, Jr. (Malaco Gospel) and Phil Thornton (RCA Inspiration).
The Stellar Awards show taping is open to the public, with ticket prices ranging from $50 - $200 at www.ticketmaster.com. The show’s star-studded red carpet Live Stream Show will be hosted by Deitrick Haddon and Goo Goo Atkins, and the newly popular Emerging Artist stage will showcase performances by DOE, Jabari Johnson and Will McMillan.
For the first time since 2005, The Stellar Awards telecast will premiere on BET on Friday, April 19 at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT and again at 10 p.m. ET/9 p.m. CT. The biggest night in gospel music will also feature rousing performances by Brian Courtney Wilson, Charles Jenkins, Jekalyn Carr, Jonathan McReynolds, Kelontae Gavin, Koryn Hawthorne, Maranda Curtis and Todd Dulaney.
Stellar Awards Executive Producer and Founder, Don Jackson shared, “It was 35 years ago when Aretha performed ‘Precious Lord’ on my very first Gospel Music television special ‘Living the Dream.’ In recognition of Aretha’s roots in Gospel Music and her continuing love for the genre, I am delighted that our executive committee agreed to present her with our ICON Award posthumously and continue to present the award forever in her name as the Aretha Franklin ICON Award.”
Among this year’s presenters are Anthony Brown, Yolanda Adams, Dr. Bobby Jones, DeVon Franklin, Janice Gaines and JJ Hairston. As previously announced, The Stellar Awards nominees with multiple nominations include Jonathan McReynolds, Maranda Curtis, Todd Dulaney, Jekalyn Carr, Koryn Hawthorne, Snoop Dogg, Tori Kelly, Bishop Noel Jones & City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir, Jarell Smalls and Company, Kelontae Gavin and Tasha Page-Lockhart.
This year’s Stellar Awards will recognize gospel music royalty who have made substantial contributions to the genre with special honors. Legendary gospel singer Delores Washington Green of The Caravans will receive The Ambassador Dr. Bobby Jones Legends Award. Stellar Honors Hall of Fame Inductees include Jackie Patillo (Dove Awards), James Robinson, Jr. (Malaco Gospel) and Phil Thornton (RCA Inspiration).
The Stellar Awards show taping is open to the public, with ticket prices ranging from $50 - $200 at www.ticketmaster.com. The show’s star-studded red carpet Live Stream Show will be hosted by Deitrick Haddon and Goo Goo Atkins, and the newly popular Emerging Artist stage will showcase performances by DOE, Jabari Johnson and Will McMillan.
Stellar Awards week lights up Las Vegas with several pre-show festivities, including the Independent Artist Showcase at 6 p.m. PT on Wednesday, March 27 at the Orleans Showroom hosted by comedian Akintunde and Jessica Reedy. In addition to the competition with artists new to the industry, the show will feature performances by Earnest Pugh, Sir the Baptist and Shelby 5.
Thursday, March 28, kicks off at 9:30am PT with The Stellar Academy series of masterclass executive panels with Don Jackson, DeVon Franklin, Donald Lawrence, Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins and celebrity stylist J. Bolin.
Thursday, March 28, kicks off at 9:30am PT with The Stellar Academy series of masterclass executive panels with Don Jackson, DeVon Franklin, Donald Lawrence, Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins and celebrity stylist J. Bolin.
EMERGING ARTISTS
 William McMillan |  DOE |  Jabari Johnson |
The Stellar Gospel Music Awards Pre-Show hosted by Charles Jenkins and Lexi takes place Thursday, March 28 at 7 p.m. PT at the Orleans Showroom. The top-tier line-up of performances include: Casey J, VaShawn Mitchell, Isabel Davis, William Murphy, Benita Jones, Vincent Tharpe and Kenosis, The Wardlaw Brothers, Ella Michaels, Keion D. Henderson, Fresh Start Worship and Dexter Walker and Zion Movement. Quartet legends, The Sensational Nightingales, will be honored with the Thomas A. Dorsey Most Notable Achievement Award. The celebration carries into the night with Aaron Arrington’s Midnight Gospel Bowl featuring a performance by Vanessa Bell Armstrong and more at 11:30 p.m. PT at the Orleans Bowling Center.
The Stellar Gospel Radio Awards & Showcase will be held prior to the Main Event on Friday, March 29 at 10 a.m. PT, honoring the most outstanding radio stations and announcers who serve urban gospel music audiences. This show is jam-packed with moving performances by Anthony Brown, Chrystal Rucker, Isaiah Templeton, Evelyn Turrentine, DJ Dwight Stone, Emcee N.I.C.E., Miz Tiffany, Jor’Dan Armstrong, The McDonald Sisters, Brent Jones and The Waco Community Choir. The event, hosted by Byron Cage and Janice Gaines, is the perfect pre-show kickoff prior to the taping. Tickets for each event can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com.
More of the biggest names in gospel and a few additional surprises are being added to the growing list of top performers and presenters appearing in this year’s show. For more information visit us at www.thestellarawards.com and on social media @thestellars. Be sure to subscribe to The Stellar Awards all-new YouTube channel and follow us on social media for the latest news and updates about the biggest night in gospel! The Stellar Gospel Music Awards show is Executive Produced by Don Jackson, with Jennifer J. Jackson serving as Executive in Charge of Production. Michael A. Johnson will produce and direct this year's award show.
The Stellar Gospel Radio Awards & Showcase will be held prior to the Main Event on Friday, March 29 at 10 a.m. PT, honoring the most outstanding radio stations and announcers who serve urban gospel music audiences. This show is jam-packed with moving performances by Anthony Brown, Chrystal Rucker, Isaiah Templeton, Evelyn Turrentine, DJ Dwight Stone, Emcee N.I.C.E., Miz Tiffany, Jor’Dan Armstrong, The McDonald Sisters, Brent Jones and The Waco Community Choir. The event, hosted by Byron Cage and Janice Gaines, is the perfect pre-show kickoff prior to the taping. Tickets for each event can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com.
More of the biggest names in gospel and a few additional surprises are being added to the growing list of top performers and presenters appearing in this year’s show. For more information visit us at www.thestellarawards.com and on social media @thestellars. Be sure to subscribe to The Stellar Awards all-new YouTube channel and follow us on social media for the latest news and updates about the biggest night in gospel! The Stellar Gospel Music Awards show is Executive Produced by Don Jackson, with Jennifer J. Jackson serving as Executive in Charge of Production. Michael A. Johnson will produce and direct this year's award show.
2019 STELLAR AWARDS TOP NOMINEES
Jonathan McReynolds – 9 Nominations
Maranda Curtis – 7 Nominations
Todd Dulaney – 6 Nominations
Jekalyn Carr – 5 Nominations
Koryn Hawthorne - 4 Nominations
Kelontae Gavin - 4 Nominations
Bishop Noel Jones & City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir – 4 Nominations
Jarrell Smalls and Company – 4 Nominations
Snoop Dogg – 3 Nominations
Tori Kelly– 3 Nominations
Tasha Page-Lockhart – 2 Nominations
Maranda Curtis – 7 Nominations
Todd Dulaney – 6 Nominations
Jekalyn Carr – 5 Nominations
Koryn Hawthorne - 4 Nominations
Kelontae Gavin - 4 Nominations
Bishop Noel Jones & City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir – 4 Nominations
Jarrell Smalls and Company – 4 Nominations
Snoop Dogg – 3 Nominations
Tori Kelly– 3 Nominations
Tasha Page-Lockhart – 2 Nominations
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If you have been following When We Speak TV
throughout the years then Gareth Asher is definitely not a new face to you. Back when we first began, Gareth was one of our very early interviews. We can never forget that day in 2012, meeting with Gareth on the balcony of Eddie's Attic in Decatur, GA. |
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The entire interview was amazing but what took the interview to the next level was when Gareth took out his guitar and began to sing for Jermaine Sain. "I have the perfect song for you", Gareth tells Jermaine as he prepares his guitar to play and sing.
Once Gareth began to sing, it was like watching a live music video recording. His voice was so soothing and the guitar accommodated his vocals so perfectly! |
CHECK OUT GARETH ASHER'S 2012 PERFORMANCE
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Recently, When We Speak TV caught back up with Gareth Asher for a segment of What Do YOU Speak?. It was so great to hang out with him and see that he is continuing the family tradition.....(Check out the video and you will know what the family tradition is).....
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About Us
When We Speak TV is an independently owned network based in Atlanta, Georgia, dedicated to providing unique media solutions for individuals, organizations, and venues.
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