BKS1 Radio Network

Artist Review: Marvin Sapp

Marvin Sapp was introduced to the gospel community by Fred Hammond as a six year member of the vocal group Commissioned. "I am a preacher - called by God - who happens to sing," is the way he defines his ministry - which was given its official blessing upon his receiving of the Doctor of Divinity Degree from Aenon Bible College and the Doctor of Ministry Degree from Friends International Christian University. Sapp’s previous releases as a solo artist are the self-titled Marvin Sapp (his solo debut for Word Records – 1996); Grace & Mercy: Live (1997); Nothing Else Matters (1999); I Believe (his 2002 Verity debut); Diary of a Psalmist (2003); Be Exalted (2005) and Thirsty (2007).

When he isn’t spreading the word of God through over 200 preaching and speaking engagements a year, Sapp ministers at The Lighthouse Full Life Center Church in Grand Rapids, where he is senior pastor. By 2012, he hopes to have built a 1,500 seat sanctuary connecting to “FLC.” His ultimate goal: to encourage Believers to elevate their level of worship and praise.

Read More Marvin Sapp at www.marvinsappmusic.com

Tonight’s Topic: Being Judgmental- A State of Superior Airs or A State of Self-hate?

Have you ever encountered a  person that can just point out everything you do wrong or are struggling with?  Often times this person could be a friend, family member or a coworker.  This individual may have a critical spirit or a genuine desire to help you improve your short comings.  Whatever the reason good or bad how do you feel when they approach you?  Are you able to receive the criticism?  Do you see their short comings and complexly reject the whole encounter as hypocrisy.  Could it be the very thing the person is trying to correct in you is the thing they despise in themselves?

Tonight the ‘Live in the Vocal Booth Team” will discusses being Judgmental and how it can effects all involved..

Special Guest: J. Kingdom (aka Pastor Michael J.T. Fisher)

J. Kingdom became the Pastor of the Greater Zion Church Family at the young age of 26! Over the years, he has become known throughout the community and abroad for his ability to reach and reform troubled youth and young adults. Mothers, fathers and the many Grandparents’s who have been left to care for their teen grand children often call upon him to help re-direct their troubled youth. Fisher has taken the once small Church in Compton from approximately 400 members to more than 4500! That’s huge in COMPTON!

The Greater Zion Church Family is located in Compton, CA and is literally nestled in between two rivalry gang territories. Fisher has experienced great success in changing/saving the lives of many of them by spending time with them, counseling, listening and providing a platform for them to express themselves through the arts. Fisher believes that there are so many young talented people who just need a platform to express their frustrations. They just want someone to hear and understand their plight and their struggles in hopes to finding a solution. And that is when Pastor Fisher does his best work, offering them the keys to a better life and a divinely intended destiny! He helps them find the “Champion” within themselves. (hence, the album title “Champion”).

In 2010, Fisher lead the Voices of Destiny, a 50+ voice choir to a highly publicized sweeping victory in the national competition of Verizon’s How Sweet the Sound Contest. People were AMAZED to find out that not only was this a group of talented young people but many of its members were reformed gang members, drug dealers, drug users, delinquent’s and high school drop outs. Many had spent time in juvenile hall or had been arrested at some point in their young lives. The win opened up doors for them that they could have never imagined and they are still riding that wave of success to date.

Some of the shows they have been featured on include: BET Celebration of Gospel, the Official Super Bowl Gospel Celebration, Pan African Film Festival, NBA All Star Gospel Brunch Children’s Mending Hearts w/Ben Affleck, DIVAS Simply Singing w/Sheryl Lee Ralph, the Today’s Show, NBC Nightly News, CNN, KTLA Black History Special, KTLA Morning News, Jet Magazine, EURweb, The Examiner.com and more.

The choir used the winnings from How Sweet the Sound to complete the first youth center in South Compton, CA and they remain extremely active in the community helping to rescue other youth’s and young adults from their toxic environments. They offer tutoring, counseling, STD testing and a place to belong with a large family that cares about every area of their lives!

Call in 646-233-1302 or chat live with our chat rebels. Let us know your opinions and Join the BKS1 Radio experience!

What has happened to marriage?! Til death do us part. For better or worse. Those terms are just spoken word for a elegant ceremony that you and your spouse paid for. In some cases even justice of the peace marriages crumble under the pressure of infidelity, money, children, and whatever other reasons marriage is not that sacred thing that it used to be, but WHY?

Why is marriage easy to get into and easier to get out of? Tonight the LIVB team dissect divorce and separation. We invite you the viewer to call in with your divorce stories or your staying in a marriage secrets for all to hear, LIVE IN THE VOCAL BOOTH!!!

Call in 646-233-1302 and let us know your thoughts on marriage, divorce and separation. Do you believe in pushing through the tough times and making a relationship work or do you quit at the first sign of adversity? Let Us Know!

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H3B Radio aka Hip Hop Holla Back hosted by The Legendary DJ Cutmaster Cool V, Kan-Kain & DJ Twista. Every show will deliver a wealth of information and unique insight into the impact the hip hop lifestyle has on society and society’s impact on the culture of hip hop.

TONIGHT'S TOPIC- THE PROBLEMS INSECURITY CAN CAUSE IN YOUR RELATIONSHIPS"

Being in a relationship is far from easy. You have to put in some work,compromise, understanding and some unconditional love needs to added. Its a shame relationships don't automatically come with trust and honesty. Sometimes partners can become insecure or not trusting of their partner. Sometimes insecurities can turn into something we don't know how to deal with well or interpret as abuse. We are gonna talk about some signs to look out for if you think you have an insecure partner, friend, etc;

Special Guest: Bio - Author and Motivational Speaker Wil Townsend

Wil Townsend is a sought after motivational speaker, coach and mentor who spreads hope, love and joy with his interactive presentations throughout the U.S.A and Canada.  With his blazing quick wit and amazing stage presence, Wil delivers a high-energy message that enables women, men and youth to live up to their own personal greatness which in turn makes it possible to have healthy, loving relationships.  

He first realized his calling in the 90's when he was touring the nation with the R&B sensation Asante, (signed with Columbia Records),  and experienced first hand the depths to which women will lower themselves to catch the eye of a man.  His momentary "star status" and connections to giant producers such as Denny Foster and Tommy McElroy, the creator of En Vogue, made him the focus of many women.  Although he admits he had his fun, he realized on some level that something needed to be done!

Even after he retired from the music industry it was quite apparent that women in general would willingly subject themselves to demoralizing behavior from men. Through his own experiences and others, he realized that people everywhere are in search of love and will go to great lengths to get it and/or keep it.  Unfortunately, "many are willing to sell themselves short in order to get what they think they want."  By compromising their morals and beliefs, people have lost an integral part of themselves that will result in unhappiness in the long-run.

Wil has interviewed hundreds of men and tells it how it is from a man's point of view.   He goes into depth about men and women's needs and desires and also points out the game, the pitfalls and the red flags that women should be on the lookout for.  His powerful message implores women to take back their power and respect by taking the proper steps in setting a strong foundation; which in turn creates positive energy internally and within the relationship.

Special Guest: Dreamy

Definition of Dreamy;  1. full of dreams 2. pleasantly abstracted from immediate reality  3. given to dreaming or fantasy.

The day Dreamy was born her grandmother took one look at those beautiful eyes and stated "She is Dreamy". The beauty of her eyes told a story that touched her grandmother’s heart and soul.  Dreamy’s journey is liken to that of A Star is Born.  Dreamy’s personality (don't you just like saying her name?) is vivacious, sensational, and loving. This Soul was born and bred in Newark New Jersey (Brick City).

It could be said that Dreamy is one of the natural resources hailing from this great city and state. Newark is currently being positioned for a rebirth of a new Mecca of music. Dreamy is also a part of the continued heritage of famous artists that hale from New Jersey.  She has flava, opulence, and she approaches her artistry very seriously. Dreamy’s vocal styling includes, pop/urban, hip-hop, gospel music, and rock n roll.

Dreamy and her 3 sisters formed a group called Famil.  Each sister brought their own distinct styles of dauntless charisma, creating what can only be describe as heaven sent. Dreamy is the leader of the bunch - and you know what that means for any family - she is the fearless one, the power house, the in your face raw soul. The group was signed to Universal/Motown Records, and toured with Mary J Bilge, Joe, Cash Money, and Nelly.

Dreamy has since ventured out on her own and has open for artist such as Chrissette Michelle, Kelly Price, Marsha Ambrosius, Waka Floka,Maino and Vado.  As a solo artist, Dreamy gives a performance that is gusty and straight from the streets.  Her lyrics speak the language of love regarding its gains, losses, fury, and then loves ultimate respect. She is a powerhouse of kinetic vocal ability with a fresh new pop/urban, hip hop style. Dreamy is ready to take her career to new heights.

Dreamy performed for Al Sharpton’s National Network event at the Sheraton hotel in New York City and John Blassinggame's Black Woman's Magazine 17th Annual Fashion Event at the Marriott Resorts Hotel in New Jersey. Dreamy will be performing for the Seventeeth Anniversary party for Today’s Black Woman Magazine hosted by John Blassingame. Located at the Marriott Hotels & Resorts in Newark Liberty International Airport. Dreamy has just finished her 1st music video entitled :"too late" which you can find on youtube.com

link to video:  http://youtu.be/MPJ6orbEj5E

Tonight on the Live In The Vocal Booth team reviews Eddie Levert new release I Still Have It. Eddie Levert is a legendary figure in the music industry, from being the lead singer in the O'Jays and father of the late Gerald Levert and Sean Levert, as well as Eddie Levert Jr.. Lets see if Eddie Levert can continue to deliver the music that he has been known to deliver.

Read More Eddie Levert Bio: www.allmusic.com/artist/eddie-levert-p98018/biography

Tonight's Topic: Why is Life So Hard?

"In each life, some rain must fall".  These famous lyrics ring true for us all.  Although we know we will always experience ups and downs on our journeys, we don't question much while enjoying the "mountain top" experiences.  However, when those "valley" ordeals surface, there is one simple question that's not so easy to answer..."Why is life so hard?"

What gets you down in the dumps?  What steals your joy?  Tonight, let's peel back the layers of this complex topic.  With all that's happening in the world, most of us are dealing with some stressful and dark realities.  Let's have an open and honest discussion tonight that may help those who are struggling with life.  Why is life so hard?  The answer may not be as hard as you think.

Keep it locked, tonight, on "Live in the Vocal Booth".

COME LET ME UPGRADE YA!

Let's Get It On w/ Relationship Coach Sadie, Use it or lose it, stay on top of your relationship and know there is always room for improvement. Relationship coach Sadie shows you how to keep your relationship fresh and energized.  Learn How & When to upgrade your relationship. Call in 646-233-1302 or chat live, get answers to your relationship questions.

Ending It All

It's the most haunting news you'll ever hear, and unfortunately we've all heard it before.  Someone has committed suicide.  Tonight, we're tackling an issue most shows won't even touch.  When someone takes their own life, the questions as to why stop you in your tracks.  What kind of pain can drive someone to take their own lives?  Why didn't they reach out to someone for help?  How do you pick up the broken pieces and carry on?

Join us as we have a heart-to-heart about losing loved ones who couldn't defeat their demons.  We will discuss how depression can drive someone to a choice they feel is the only way to escape their inner turmoil. We'll also learn how the statistics stack up demographically in our society when it comes to suicide.  Does it affect one race, gender, or age group over another?  Listen in as we talk to family and friends who have been left behind in the aftermath of such a devastating loss.  Most importantly, share your own stories of how suicide has affected your life.  Are you contemplating ending it all?  While you may be hurting, we want to help.   Tonight on "Live in the Vocal Booth".

Call 646-233-1302 with your thoughts, opinions or tell us if you have battled through these issues or currently battling with them. Your story and experience may help out someone who is going through them. Join the BKS1 Radio experience! Like our Facebook fan page: Best Kept Secrets Entertainment and follow us on twitter: @bks1radioent

Musical Guest: Thurston Ray

Smooth, soulful, and jazzy are a few words that may describe the musical style of singer-songwriter, Thurston Ray. It may also be described as romantic, optimistic, and uniquely familiar. However it’s described, the Thurston Ray sound has been crafted to take the listener on a journey through emotions, melodies, and sweet inspiration. Thurston Ray is a Brooklyn, NY bass baritone vocalist who blends groovy soul music, jazzy vocals, and messages about real life and love.

Thurston Ray, originally born Timothy Thurston, got his start while growing up in the small town of Montross, VA. From the beginning, Thurston always had a love for the arts, whether drawing, writing, or singing. And growing up in a family rooted in gospel music helped to develop an ear for music and melodies at an early age. Somewhere in the midst of the music, Thurston started writing and reciting poetry as an outlet for creativity in churches, schools, and talent showcases.

After moving to Norfolk, VA to attend Old Dominion University, Thurston gained a name for himself in Virginia’s underground spoken word community as a spoken word artist. Under the stage name ShakespeareBlak, two albums were released. “From Dust” was released in 2003 with the help of a local independent record label, TMS Records. A single from the project, “Harmony”, was later featured on the Compilation CD “Fusion: A Blend of Poetry and Music” which was released through GPM Records-Malaco Music Group in 2005. Also during the same year, “The Mind…The Melody” was released independently and featured a cappella vocal melodies and spoken word. Although neither album gained major commercial success, Thurston was simply satisfied with sharing his gift and touching people through song and poetry.

Today, after years of quiet growth and focus, Thurston Ray is poised to step back into the music scene with more maturity and confidence. Relocation, rededication, and of course time were needed for this moment. Years were spent simply writing songs in his small Brooklyn apartment, and Thurston knew that one day he’d be delivering his music to new audiences. “I didn’t know how it would all come together,” Thurston stated. “I just knew that I had to write, and do what I could with the gift I had.” During this quiet hiatus, the majority of Thurston’s latest project was written. So once Thurston found the producer and place to record, a studio mysteriously located one block away from his apartment, there was an abundance of creativity waiting to be manifested. It was at this studio that Thurston Ray joined forces with producer Matthew “Matlock” Robinson. Together they created a jazzy Soul and R&B sound fused with catchy, sing-a-long hooks and bob-your-head bass lines.

Thurston Ray’s sound and messages are made to stand as a soundtrack to the ups and downs of anyone’s love and life. It marks life’s imperfect journey and reflects on its fresh new beginnings. For everyday is a new beginning. This is the start or restart of something special, something real. This is Thurston Ray.

Check out more on Thurston Ray at www.thurstonray.com