Local

Gospel singer Robert E. Person has had a whirlwind year. Since the release of his third CD, Soul Sanctuary, in July 2011, Robert has been busy promoting the new, critically-acclaimed release. The lead single, “Someday We’ll All Be Free”, a jazzy arrangement of the Donny Hathaway classic, has been heard on 200 radio stations nationally.

After Pastor Marvin Sapp’s recent recording in Maryland, The Belle caught up the pastor and asked him about one of his obvious hit songs for the evening, “Testimony.” The overall evening was powerful as Pastor Sapp was so transparent with the many obstacles he has gone through in his life and shared many of them in song. Check out the full story to see the video.

Gospel music’s greatest living organist, Moses Tyson Jr., has earned the first Stellar Award (Gospel music’s version of the Grammy Awards) nomination of his long and illustrious career.

Almost four years ago, Fred Hammond declared that he was going to do a love album “before he leaves this earth.” Truly a man of his word, Hammond has done just that with his new project GOD, LOVE & ROMANCE. Set for release January 31, 2012, the 2-CD set is a novel approach for a Gospel artist but it is a natural progression for Hammond, who is a Gospel music pioneer with a career that spans more than 20 years.

Billboard has listed Kirk Franklin as the Top Gospel Albums Artist of the year, and his album HELLO FEAR is the year’s Top Gospel Album.

International television, movie and recording artist, and member of the Bobby Jones and New Life Nashville Super Choir, Emily Harris died on Thursday Morning, December 22, 2011 in her hometown of Nashville, TN.

Happy Holidays to you and yours from the entire Radio One Richmond family!

Maurice Griffin is headed across the pond to minister in London, England following a heavy schedule here in the states. This may have something to do with his latest release that people around the world are flocking to purchase as Griffin pours out his heart and soul.

When J Moss and The Belle get together, it is always fun and anything but normal. Most recent was their time together in Richmond, when The Belle attempted to do an interview with J. Moss, however he ended up taking over and saying what he wanted to say. It was really A LOT of fun. Check out the interview.

Veteran soul and gospel vocalist Shirley Murdock will make her debut with the world-renowned National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) in its upcoming production of “Mighty Stream,” a celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. and the American Freedom Movement.

Minister Earl Bynum a.k.a. Mr. International is currently in full swing with his 15th World Tour. This year Bynum heads out to Italy and Switzerland. Joining him this year is Virginia's Lady of Gospel - Cora Armstrong, who is known for her heart felt traditional sound that penetrates the soul.

Cedar Street Baptist Church and the Richmond Community came together Sunday evening to pay special honor to a man who is highly respected and known throughout the Gospel Community. He is none other than Mr. Barksdale “Barky” Haggins, owner of Barky’s Spiritual Store in downtown Richmond.