10 Questions For...

 Lisa Knowles

Award Winning Gospel Recording Artist and 
Lead Singer of Lisa Knowles & The Brown Singers 

by  DIVINE Staff Blogger, Tiffoni Mitchell

        Lisa Knowles is a talented Gospel Artist home grown right here in Memphis, TN. She is a winner of the 2009 Rhythm of Gospel Award Song of the Year for the song “Work On Me” which Lisa performed along with The Brown Singers. In 2010, Lisa & The Brown Singers were nominated for three Stellar Awards for another hit “Experience the Evolution" and they will be honored at the Rhythm of Gospel Awards later this year with the 2012 Gospel Legends Award. Lisa has been a part of both Stellar and Grammy Award winning projects singing background vocals on Vickie Winan’s  “How I Got Over” , Sheri Jones-Moffett’s  “Renewed.” and on Earnest Pugh’s  “He Already Knows.”   Most recently Knowles performed a tribute to Kim Burrell at the 2012 Stellar Awards and she brought the house down.  DIVINE caught up with this awesome Gospel powerhouse to chat about her life in song which started earlier than most.

DIVINE:: You began singing at an early age. At nine you were a background singer for the Brown Singers and was the lead singer at twelve. Where did the passion come from?

Lisa:: I would say my passion for music came from my upbringing. I was born into a singing as well as a musical family.  Where did you first sing and how did you know that a career in music was what you wanted to do? I first sang when I was about 3 with Ms. Lula Collins who had just recorded “Hold Me Jesus”, they had to stand me on a chair so people could see me. I think I was always a character, and I loved singing even at an early age. As far as a career in music, I knew around about 18 this is what I really want to do.

DIVINE:: You have worked with some great artists, name some of them. What artists would you like to work with? 

Lisa::  Yes I have, I’ve had the pleasure of working with Mama Vickie Winans, Earnest Pugh, J.J. Hairston and Pastor John P. Kee just to name a few. ’d like to work with Mary Mary, Donald Lawrence and maybe a gospel collaboration with Beyonce J


DIVINE:: What is the best advice that you have been given as it relates to your life and career?  


Lisa:: To always remember that I am the artist, I have the paint brush, I control the picture. If I let producers, managers, etc ., paint the picture then that makes them the artist. It was mind-blowing.

DIVINE::    Have you done any writing and producing?

Lisa::   Yes I have.  I wrote most of the songs on the Brown Singers' last project and I’m writing majority of the songs on the new album as well. As far as producing I do most of the pre-production and co-produce as well.

DIVINE:: As a singer you minister to people through song. What message do you always want to convey to the listener?

Lisa:: I want people to know that God is able to do anything. I try to write relatable, practical music with a biblical reference. In other words, the same thing He did back then, He can do it again. I know because He did  it for me.

DIVINE:: Besides singing Gospel music, what else is Lisa Knowles passionate about?

Lisa::  I'm passionate about People. I’m returning to school this summer to major in Psychology. I would love to be a family counselor.   
        
DIVINE:: Memphis has a plethora of musical artists. Gospel, blues, rock and the list goes on. Who are your favorite local artists?

Lisa:: I would have to say Courtney Franklin, Pastor Darrel Pettis, Billy Rivers and AVOF, Perfection, Vincent Tharpe and Kenosis, the Echoaires……I could go on and on…Memphis has some amazing talent!!

DIVINE:: You are participating in the NAACP Memphis Gospel Fest. Tell our readers about that opportunity?

Lisa:: Yes I am. I’m so excited to have this opportunity to encourage our students and guests at the University of Memphis. I’m always humbled and honored for such a great platform.

DIVINE:: How are you making a difference in the community? What are you doing to give back? 

Lisa:: I am currently creating a program that will deposit life back into our young ladies. I’m looking to link up with churches throughout Memphis to do a girls conference that will empower our young ladies into becoming amazing young women.   I try to make myself available for youth both young ladies and young men for support. The time that I spend with young people is priceless.

DIVINE:: What is on the horizon for you? Any projects in the works?  

Lisa::  I’m most definitely trying to make a difference in my local community as well as take one step towards changing the world through music.  Lisa Knowles and The Brown Singers will be releasing a new project “The Evolution Continues”. The new single “God Do It” will hit the radio this summer. I will also be releasing my first solo project “Unveiled” so keep a look out for that! 

Lisa Knowles will be performing at the NAACP Memphis Gospel Fest Saturday April 28, 2012 at the Rose Theater on the campus of the University of Memphis. The doors open at 6PM and show starts at 7PM. For more information visit www.GetToThis.com

Connect with Lisa Knowles

on Facebook, Twitter

For booking information contact Zantino Kimmons at 901-438-0263

or Vanessa Knowles at 901-366-4764 or email lisaknowlesmusic@gmail.com.

Also Check Out Vidoes Of Lisa Knowles & The Brown Sisters on Youtube.

7 Questions For...

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Rochelle Woods, Natural Hair Care/Tree Braid Specialist & Educator

Owner of Natural Opulence Hair, Scalp & Body Therapy Products

By Tiffoni Mitchell, DIVINE Staff Blogger 

      

            All natural hair styles are not a thing of the past. The afro and other natural hairstyles of yester year are now the New Look of today.  Natural Hare Care/Tree Braid Specialist & Educator Rochelle Woods has created a product line for everyone one that should definitely be considered “The All Natural Nation.” Her products will have your hair healthy and looking great.  Not only does Rochelle know exactly what is needed for the hair but she has created products for the total body from head to toe.

DIVINE:  Tell our readers about your line of hair care products?

Rochelle:  Natural Opulence Hair & Scalp Therapy is a luxurious and exclusive plant based all natural hair care line. My products have been designed to provide nourishment, healing and restoration to the hair and scalp while enhancing the blood circulation to the root of the hair, reversing hair loss and preventing premature balding. My products contain only the highest grade of organic essential oils, botanicals, herbs, plant and vegetable extracts that will only nourish the hair and scalp, not destroy them. My products are designed for all types of hair and because of the unique and delicate ingredients they are made fresh to order.  The will leave your hair feeling extremely soft, silky and manageable, leaving your scalp feeling clean, fresh and invigorated. I promise your hair and scalp will thank you.

DIVINE: In addition to a line of hair care products, you also have bath and body treats. Tell our readers about them?

Rochelle: I have released my new Bath & Body Collection. These luxurious bath & body treats are handmade fresh to order with only the purest ingredients that nature has to offer. The collection consists of:  Gourmet Specialty Soaps, Herbal Soaps, Unscented Soaps, Relaxing Bath Salts, Exfoliating Salt & Sugar Scrubs, Hydrating Perfumes Body Mist, Whipped Body Frosting and more to come.  The moisturizing properties of the oils, such as coconut, olive, sunflower etc., and butters such as raw shea butter, soy, cocoa, etc., contained in these soaps and other items not only cleanse and moisturize the body but leave the body incredibly soft and hydrated.

DIVINE: Natural Opulence….that is a unique name. How did you come up with it?

Rochelle: Actually, it was my husband who created the name for the business.

DIVINE: How can our readers purchase your hair care products or the bath & body treats?

Rochelle: All of the products can be purchased from my website (www.naturalopulence.com) or by placing the order by calling or sending me an email to rochellewoods@naturalopulence.com

DIVINE:  Who or what is your inspiration? Are you doing what you love?

Rochelle:  My inspiration comes from the Lord who indeed gave me the passion and desire to become an entrepreneur. What I do as a natural hair care specialist is not just a career but it is my God given assignment. I meet so many women who are insecure about embracing their natural hair and I feel it is my job to make them look and feel beautiful. I live to encourage women to love themselves as God created them and teach them that how to be beautiful with their natural hair without having to compromise their health and wellness in the process.

My mother was a hair stylist as well and I knew I wanted to follow in her footsteps but I also wanted to do more than just stand behind a chair in a salon. So yes, I do feel I am doing what I have always dreamed of... but I never imagined my dream would go this far.

DIVINE: What do you want to say to our readers who are interested in becoming entrepreneurs?

Rochelle: I say do it!  Don’t let fear keep you from reaching the goal that has already been predestined before you were ever born.  If you feel that there is more for you than where you are now, just begin to search your heart and ask God to show you those hidden gifts and talents that He placed inside of you. Your gifts are not for lying dormant in your heart but they are to be shared with the world! When you finally start your journey to your destiny and realize the joy and fulfillment that you have been missing, you might ask yourself…..what took me so long?

Stay Connected To Rochelle Woods

Owner/Founder of Natural Opulence Hair, Scalp & Body Therapy at www.naturalopulence.com and on Facebook

10 Questions For...

Bethany Paige

Christian/Pop Vocalist & Worship Leader

2012 Emissaries of Memphis Music Honoree

by DIVINE Staff Blogger Tiffoni Mitchell

Memphis has and is producing some of the best in the music industry. Just like a pot of New Orleans gumbo, a lot of different ingredients mixed together delivering a great taste! That’s Memphis music. Gospel, Rock ‘n’ Roll and a whole lot of Soul.  Many from all over the world flock to Memphis to get their musical fix. Bethany Paige, a Christian/Pop Vocalist and Worship Leader, is one of the reasons people love the music scene here in the Bluff City. Along with her husband Kevin Paige, who has his own list of musical bragging rights, Bethany released the single “One Love” which was featured in the October 2011 issue of Worship Leader Magazine. Wife, mother, vocalist, song writer and producer just to name a few, are all a part of the thunder and lightning package of Bethany Paige. DIVINE Magazine caught up with this musical treasure  for a little one on one.

DIVINE::  How does it feel to be honored with a recognition from the Memphis and Shelby County Music Commission?

Bethany Paige:: It feels great! How could you not be humbled when honored in a city like Memphis where there is so much talent.

DIVINE:: What work are you doing with the Memphis and Shelby County Music Commission?

Bethany Paige:: Up to this point, I had not worked with their organization but I have known about them and what great things they were doing for the music community, especially with the youth. I have now made some life long friends! They really have been a joy to work with.

DIVINE:: Speaking of Memphis? Who is your favorite Memphis musician/singer?

Bethany Paige::Without question, my husband! Aside from his many accomplishments, he is such a perfectionist! He will spend an hour trying to find the bell sound for a song!  He is a killer song writer and he puts his heart and soul into every project we do. Maurice White from Earth, Wind, & Fire is a close second!

Bethany with husband, Kevin

DIVINE:: How has music changed, shaped and influenced your life? When did you know that music would be a major part of your life?

Bethany Paige::I always tell my daughter ( who is a talented singer and musician herself at 10 years old!) how lucky you are if you find out while you are young what it is you are good at and what you want to do for a living. It gives you a focus and can help you find an identity early in life. I knew music was what I wanted to do at eight years old so there was no time for messing around!

DIVINE:: Tell our readers how it is to be able to share your career with your husband Kevin Paige who himself is an accomplished artist?

Bethany Paige::It is truly one of the biggest blessings in my life. I love the fact that I never have to ask him, " honey how was your day?"  or " how was the gig?" because I already know! Getting to worship through music is what I love the most. Whether leading it at Lindenwood Christian Church, writing songs, or our pop gig at Alfred's on Beale, we get to live the same life.

DIVINE::Who and what has been your inspiration?

Bethany Paige::My grandmothers were both such lovely women. They were always my biggest encouragers. To this day, I always think of them before a big gig. They are in heaven now but their love and support will live with me the rest of my life.

DIVINE:: What is the best part of what you do? And, are you living your dream?

Bethany Paige:: The best part is getting to share music with my husband and daughter.  Yes, I am living my dream! I make a living doing what I love to do. I wake up every day with a smile on my face.

DIVINE:: What message do you want to convey to your listeners through music?

Bethany Paige::The only message I wish to convey is the one I sing at Lindenwood, " There is hope in Jesus Christ.  And He is our Savior!" 

DIVINE:: What's next for Bethany Paige?

Bethany Paige:: We are currently working on our latest Christian recording project and we will also have a Christmas record release this November.

DIVINE:: Here at DIVINE, we want to encourage and inspire our readers. What words of encouragement and inspiration can you give?

Bethany Paige:: Feel blessed because we ARE blessed!

Bethany Paige is truly a star in the atmosphere of music And there is no doubt that she will continue to shine.  On Thursday March 29, 2012, she will be honored by the Memphis & Shelby County Music Commission as one of the 2012’s Emissaries of Memphis Music.  Bethany and her husband Kevin can also be heard each Sunday at Lindenwood Christian Church and Alfred’s on Beale Street. 

~

Attend the Memphis & Shelby County Music Commission's 2012 Emissaries of Memphis Music Event

Thursday, March 29, 2012 at 7 p.m.

University of Memphis Holiday Inn, 3700 Central Avenue

For ticket information and additional details visit http://www.memphismusic.org/Attachments/Women_EM.htm

For more on Memphis Music visit http://www.memphismusic.org

Stay Connected To Bethany Paige

Official Website: http://www.kevinandbethanypaige.net

Check Out Videos On YouTube & Vimeo

Become A Fan On Facebook  

Listen On SoundCloud

7 Questions For...

Bev Johnson
Radio Show Host, Talk Show Host, Community Leader

by DIVINE Staff Blogger Tiffoni Mitchell

You cannot talk about Memphis radio without mentioning the name of Bev Johnson. She has been a major player in the game of radio for many years with many more to come. DIVINE Magazine caught up with Memphis’ “Queen of Talk” for a one-on-one conversation about life, career, education, community service and what’s on the horizon for this radio mover and shaker.

DIVINE:: Greetings Ms. Bev Johnson how does it feel to have come so far in this career? When you look back over the years what comes to mind?

Bev Johnson:: It feels really great to have come this far by faith. When I look back over the years I would have never thought I would be in radio as a career and for so long. In this business, I have seen people come and go, as well as seeing the business change.


DIVINE:: How did you begin your career in radio?

Bev Johnson:: I began my career in Jackson, Mississippi at Jackson State University while I was a graduate student there in 1976. I have always said that it was a fluke that I’m doing what I am doing now. I was at JSU getting my masters degree and really wanted to go into TV as a reporter. Being a graduate assistant in the Mass Communications office, I was filling in for a student from D.C. on WJSU. Carl Haynes the program director at WJMI heard me and offered me a job as a disc jockey. I turned him down initially and he later found me in Memphis after school was out and offered me the job again. My grandmother told me, “Baby, never turn down an opportunity!” So I called him back and told him I would be back in school in the Fall and would take the job. So I began as a DJ working the midnight to 6am shift, but I still had the desire to be in news, and kept worrying Carl about it. When the opportunity became available, I became the morning news anchor on the AM & FM stations WJMI & WOKJ.


DIVINE:: Who have been your role models in life and career?

Bev Johnson:: My role models have been Martha Jean “The Queen” Steinberg, who began her career at WDIA, left and went to Detroit and worked at several stations and ended up owning her own station. Carol Hal, who was one of the first black women to anchor on WHBQ-TV here in Memphis in the 70’. Lastly, Carol Simpson formerly of ABC News.


DIVINE:: How did you get your start in radio here in Memphis? And what is the 25th Anniversary that I have been hearing you talk about?

Bev Johnson:: I wanted to get back to Memphis or even go to Atlanta, so I sent a tape to both cities. Memphis (WLOK Radio) called me first and I accepted the job. Once I started working wouldn’t you know WAOK in Atlanta called but I stayed in Memphis. I am celebrating 25 years doing The Bev Johnson Show--my talk show. I was the first in the city to begin talking about relationships; the year after Oprah. I have been employed at WDIA now for 28 years being hired as a news anchor. It will be 29 years in September and 36 years in August in the radio business.


DIVINE:: In addition to “The Bev Johnson Show” on WDIA AM 1070 you also teach and have a cable talk show. Tell our readers about that.

Bev Johnson:: The cable show “Affairs of the Heart” started a year after the radio show and we focus on male and female relationships. It airs on Sundays at 5:30 p.m. on Comcast Channel 17. Dr. Dorothy Jeffries and Dr. Warren Harper who are both psychologists and who have appeared on my radio show helped me launch the cable show. I also teach writing and oral communications at Southwest Tennessee Community College where I have been since 1990. I've also taught at my alma mater Rust College in the Mass Communications Department. I love teaching and interacting with the students because I learn so much from them.


DIVINE:: How are you giving back to the community?

Bev Johnson:: I give back to the community through mental health counseling. I give to my Women’s groups and my charity helps my church’s higher education ministry send young people to college. My business alongwith Heart 2 Heart Counseling and Collaborations work together to give back through mental health counseling and working with people who may not be able to afford it. I also participate in several community service projects work with my sorority Delta Sigma Theta Incorporated.


DIVINE:: You end your talk show everyday with these words “And Ya’ll keep the Faith.” How does faith play a part in your life and career? And what is next for you?

Bev Johnson:: Faith plays an important role in my life. I wholeheartedly believe in faith and what it does. When I say, keep the faith, I mean that because it’s what gives you a sound mind and helps you to endure each day. What's next for me--I really want to get started on a book and talk about my experiences in this business.


DIVINE:: Here at DIVINE Magazine we want to inspire and encourage our readers. What words of inspiration and encouragement can you give?

Bev Johnson:: My encouraging words would be to tell people, “To Thine Own Self Be True”. Learn how to love yourself first and then you can love others. My motto is “As you treat yourself, you will treat others”. And never give up!


Ms. Bev Johnson, it has definitely been a pleasure talking with you today. I think it would be appropriate to leave our readers with the words that you leave your listeners with at the end of your radio talk show each day…."And ya’ll keep the Faith".

STAY CONNECTED TO BEV JOHNSON

Listen Daily: http://www.mywdia.com/

Facebook: The Bev Johnson Show

Email: bjohnson@am1070wdia.com

7 Questions For...

Laquintin Alston - Preacher Kid

CEO Of Preacher Kid Production/Booking Agency

DIVINE::Tell our readers about Friday Night Live.
PK::Friday Night Live is the most talked about exciting late night Pre-Stellar Awards Party/Showcase that everyone attends prior to the Stellar Awards Event in Nashville, TN. Friday Night Live features national and indie artists who sing snippets of their new music and fellowship with their fans. People love it!!!

DIVINE::Who are some of the headliners at this exciting event?
PK::Just a few headliners are Wess Morgan, Amber Bullock (Sunday Best Winner), Shari Addison (Sunday Best Winner), James Hall, Nikki Ross and so many more!!!

Friday Night Live Flyer

DIVINE::The Friday Night Live event is hosted by Wess Morgan & James Hall. Why are these guys such pillars to the Christian/Gospel music industry?
PK::James Hall is a phenomenal pioneer in the Gospel game and he has inspired many choirs across the world. Wess Morgan has one of the most touching testimonies in the country. Both of these guys are up for Stellar Award Nominations.

DIVINE::How often will the Friday Night Live events be held?
PK::Friday Night Live is an annual event and this is the 3rd year. I believe that it will continue for years to come.

DIVINE::Will fans be able to purchase a DVD/CD that will capture the lineup of phenomenal singers who will perform at the Friday Night Live event?
PK::Yes, fans will be able to purchase a copy of the DVD.

DIVINE::What other activities will take place during this event?
PK::There will be many activities/events going on this weekend. The Stellar Awards are a big deal in the Christian/Gospel community. This is a prime weekend for Gospel Promoters to show out and show our skills of event planning. I have tons of parties and events planned this weekend.

DIVINE::What other events does your ministry, Preacher Kid Production, have in store for 2012?
PK::For 2012 we will be hosting our Annual Christian All White Party and I'm so excited. I also have tons of great concerts planned throughout the year.

Stay Connected To The Preacher Kid

& Preacher Kid Production/Booking Agency

http://www.pkpagency.com

pkpalston@yahoo.com

901.650.1110

7 Questions For...

Charles Winton



CEO of Kingdom Alliance Entertainment

Charles Winton has been dedicated to bringing men and women the best in Christian entertainment for the past 3 years through his company, Kingdom Alliance Entertainment. This year won't be any different as Charles prepares to unveil a lineup of excellent events for the Christian/Gospel community. The first event of the year is the Memphis Celebrates Gospel concert taking place this Saturday, January 7, 2012. Charles took a moment from his schedule to speak with DIVINE Magazine about this weekend's event.  


DIVINE:: Tell our readers about Memphis Celebrates Gospel.                                     CW:: Memphis Celebrates Gospel is a concert geared towards promoting artists and talent in the Memphis and surrounding areas. Although we're highlighting Memphis artists, we're not limited to Memphis artists only. Eventually, we would like to bring in national artists to participate in this celebration. Our main objective is to celebrate gospel music, all forms.


DIVINE::Who are some of the headliners at this exciting event? 
CW::Some of the featured guests are Memphis' own: Cedric King and the King Sisters, Vincent Tharpe and Kenosis, Lisa Knowles, Michelle Prather, Supa Mario, Pastor Linwood Dillard and The Voices of Citadel, Melrose Baptist Church and many others!

                        

DIVINE::Why did you develop the Memphis Celebrates Gospel event?                      CW::Memphis Celebrates Gospel was a vision God gave me to celebrate gospel music. The goal is to bring all types of genres together, under one roof, and celebrate the gospel music.It doesn't matter what form, the goal is to celebrate the talent God has given artists to express their God-given talent. This night is designed to celebrate the gifts and the music!


DIVINE::Why are events such as Memphis Celebrates Gospel so important to the Gospel community? to Memphis?
CW::Celebrating gospel on a whole, is important because we're in a day and time when it's not politically correct to speak or sing about the Gospel. So, everytime we get an opportunity, we should celebrate the Gospel of Jesus of Christ through the expression of music.I think it's especially important to Memphis because we have a lot of talent here in this city, and it's just good when we can come together and celebrate each other, and not be envious, or jealous, but rather, use the gifts God has blessed this city with and come together and represent Memphis all under one roof!


DIVINE::You named some of Gospel's greatest singers as well as some up and coming artists who will be performing at the event, what is it about their style of singing that will make this event memorable? 
CW::I think each artist has their own unique gift that God has given them. When they operate in that gift, it becomes a blessing to the body of Christ. Such as, the smooth, soulful sounds of Lisa Knowles, and the the Church sound of Michelle Prather, who will take you right to chhuuuuch, like my grandma used to say. Also, the quartet sounds of Cedric King and the King Sisters appeal to those who love quartet singing. So, when you take all of these talents and put them together, you're setting up for a Gospel Explosion!! one that will be remembered.

Don't Miss Memphis Celebrates Gospel

Saturday, January 7, 2012

Greater Community Temple

5181 Winchester Road

7:00 p.m.

FREE ADMISSION

DIVINE::What other activities will take place during this event?
CW::We're also honoring different people who have contributed to the Gospel music industry and the Kingdom as a whole. We will honor Tracy Bethea, 95.7 Hallelujah Radio Personality, for her contribution to gospel music. Also, Pastor Ricky Floyd for his contribution to Kingdom ministry, service, and the plethora of ministries that Floyd's church offers in the community. Lastly, we will pay honor to Barron McGlothlin, booking manager for Perfection. Oftentimes, we give credit to the artist, but leave out the managers and booking agents who work tirelessly to help the artist reach their potential.

DIVINE::What other events does your ministry, Kingdom Shows, have in store for 2012?
CW::We're expecting great things in 2012, we're still looking forward to hosting our Fall edition of The GospeLounge, a Christian networking set. Also, we have our Heart of Worship 2012 event and we're planning a special Easter Concert. Needless to say, my wonderful staff & I are extremely excited about the great things we're planning for 2012!

Stay Connected To Charles Winton & Kingdom Alliance Entertainment

http://www.kingdomallianceentertainment.com/

www.facebook.com/kingdomshows

www.twitter.com/kingdomshows

www.myspace.com/kingdomallianceent

Kingdom Alliance Entertainment Offers: 


•Event Planning (church, personal, business, etc)

•Artist Management (booking & promotion)

•Promotions (event, business, etc)

•Catering (Silver Platter Catering)

Call 901.217.1241 or Email info@kingdomallianceentertainment.com

7 Questions For...

Terrell Monger

Author of Something She Can Feel

Creator of The Something She Can Feel Relationship Conference

 "The book Something She Can Feel provides men with insight on a woman's emotional needs and provides women with a means to articulate their emotional needs in ways that only men can comprehend."

DIVINE::Why should people attend the 2011 Something She Can Feel Relationship Conference taking place this weekend October 28 & 29?

TM::This conference provides a great avenue for individuals to define or redefine what is considered to be a healthy relationship. Our life is a sum of the people we know, the experiences we have and the information that we receive. The conference provides an opportunity to meet and interact with new people with fresh perspectives, have an experience that will be a blessing to your life and the lives around and to take in some information from some very powerful and successful speakers, whether single, engaged or married. We will also have lots of fun an laughs together.

DIVINE::What made you create the Something She Can Feel Relationship Conference?

TM::The reason I felt that this conference was so important is because I have heard a lot of spiritual answers and reasons for how and why relationships should work but I have not often heard anyone deal with marriage outside of just an institution of “Legal Sex” that frees you from guilt. I wanted to help people establish some sense of purpose for every relationship in their lives so they have a better chance at picking the right partner that goes with their overall purpose. The Bible tells us that where there is no vision, people will perish. We see this with the divorce rate even in the church being 52% - 55%. I wanted to deal with the practical side of marriage and relationships and allow individuals an opportunity to deal with some of the issues that they are afraid to talk about or even expose in church.

DIVINE::Why are healthy relationships so important?

TM::Healthy relationships have the propensity to provide confidence and drive in every other area of a person’s life. Notice that when people struggle in their relationships, it bleeds over into work relationship issues, excessive spending on drinks or a means of finding fulfillment somewhere else. It eventually induces stress and discomfort which makes life a little more difficult than it should be. A healthy relationship gives you a better chance at being successful in your own life and to be a blessing to the lives of others.


DIVINE::What can we learn from bad relationships?

TM::Bad relationship can help you learn about yourself and teach you what you do want in a relationship. The one thing it should not do is make an individual become bitter and give up on the hope of good healthy relationships. Love always hopes, love always trust and love keeps no records of wrong. The minute a person stops trusting, stop hoping for the best and keeping records of every wrong, then it is at that moment that they have allowed someone to take away their ability to love and we can’t let that happen.


DIVINE::You have also created a teen conference, what was your motivation behind
creating this component of the conference?

TM::I think it is so important to help our youth define and choose health relationships early in life. We are going to spend time talking about teen dating and college transition. Instead of telling them not to date, we want to teach them how to date.

DIVINE::What makes you an expert on the topic of relationships?

TM::I don’t consider myself an expert. I am just a student of life and have a deep love for people. There are things that I have taken in over the past few years of teaching relationship conferences and hosting a radio talk show. I decided to share my findings in my new book, Something She Can Feel. I believe that it will truly be a blessing to many.

DIVINE::Your newly released book is all about relationships, what do readers have to look forward to in your book?

TM::This book goes into great detail about the Biblical and practical understandings surrounding the emotional needs of women. It provides men with insight on this topic and provides women with a means to articulate their emotional needs in ways that only men can comprehend. It is truly a great book and the feedback has been phenomenal. I am looking forward to the outcome of the Relationship Conference, further impact of the book and what they both will do for the lives of believers.

Be Sure To Attend The

2011 Something She Can Feel Conference

Taking Place This Weekend October 28 & 29 At The University of Memphis
Fogelman Center

Register Now!

http://www.somethingshecanfeel.com

Stay Connected To Terrell

On Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/somethingshecanfeel

On Twitter

http://www.twitter.com/SmthngSheCnFeel

Order A Copy Of Something She Can Feel

http://www.somethingshecanfeel.com

DIVINE Magazine Nominated For A Memphis Choice Award

When You Think of Entertainment You May Think Of Music, Television Or Even Sports But DIVINE Magazine Is Changing The Way Memphis Looks At ENTERTAINMENT!

DIVINE Magazine has been nominated for a MEMPHIS CHOICE AWARD in the ENTERTAINMENT Category! Please show your support & VOTE at http://www.memphischoiceawards.com/#!2011-nomination. Select DIVINE Magazine Under the ENTERTAINMENT category, Submit Your Vote & That's It!

What Better Form Of Entertainment Than With An INSPIRATIONAL Magazine? 

After The Music Stops, The Television Goes Off & Sports Loses Its Excitement, 

DIVINE Magazine will still be INSPIRING & MOTIVATING People Everywhere!

*Email divnemgazine@gmail.com for a FREE Digital Copy of the Current Issue*

VOTE NOW     *     VOTE NOW

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7 Questions For...

Easop, Recording Artist

DIVINE:: What was the inspiration for the first single of this year " You've Been Waiting"?
Easop:: The inspiration for my first single, "You've Been Waiting" was for for fans who had been waiting on something new from me. It was a song addressed directly to them. In the song, I go into what my style is about and it also serves as an introduction to new listeners.


DIVINE:: How did you come up with the newest single title "How I Do It"?
Easop:: The title for my newest single, "How I Do It" seemed appropriate because I wanted to let people know that I'm different with how I share my faith in my music. The way I write songs is unique and so is my delivery so... this is, "How I Do It". Diversity in music is important. People like different styles of music, so it's important to be yourself and not try to be like somebody else because you think their style is hot or because you think it's what people will like. GOD created all of us in our own unique way.


DIVINE:: Who/What is your biggest inspiration?
Easop:: I've had a lot of inspiration over the years. I'll have to start with Jesus, of course. His ministry was so unconventional. To the point where he upset the religious establishment at that time. My grandmother, who made sure I was in church no matter what, was a huge inspiration as well. Once I decided to go all out for Jesus, and stop rapping secular, there were a few artists who inspired me: Gospel Gangstaz, T-Bone, Lil Raskul, etc. Also, my neighborhood inspired me to do better so I could give something back in the form of my music.

DIVINE:: How have you grown as an artist?
Easop:: I've grown as an artist because I'm willing to take more chances creatively when I write songs. My personal opinion is we as artists are sometimes afraid to step outside of our boxes to talk about certain topics or our own personal failures, struggles, shortcomings, etc., for fear of what someone might think or say about us in the body. It's just about being transparent and encouraging somebody else that if I made it through you can too. Also, as a hip-hop artist, I try and make sure when I write songs now, I write them from the perspective of the listener who maybe isn't thinking about church or doesn't know the first thing about the Bible. Jesus made it a point to relate to His audience and so I've grown to make sure I do the same in my songs even more so than before.

DIVINE::What is the title of your upcoming album and when will it be released ?
Easop:: The title of my upcoming album is "Back For The First Time". I'm not a new artist, but I haven't released an album in so long there are a lot of people still unfamiliar with me. I'm looking at the winter or Spring of 2012.

DIVINE::What can your fans expect from your new album ?
Easop:: Fans can expect a diverse mix of music and styles but the same aggressive flow and delivery. They can expect me to share my faith in a way that relates directly to the streets in hopes of someone opening their mind and heart to the gospel story. They can also expect to hear personal stories of struggle and failure but also of personal redemption and victory.

DIVINE::What other projects do you have up your sleeves? 
Easop:: I'm currently working on a mixtape called, "Street Gospel". It will be a seven song mixtape given away to fans with a free download. Fans can look for it to be available sometime at the end of July or early August. It will be available on my website http://www.easopmusic.com/. Also, I will be working on several video projects and a documentary film about FAITH in the hood. People can just expect to hear a lot from me in the coming months as I endeavor to be a light in a dark world.

Stay Connected to Easop!

http://www.easopmusic.com/

http://www.easopunlimited.com/

www.twitter.com/easop

www.facebook.com/easop

www.youtube.com/easoptv