Entertainment
Is GloRilla gospel? Tye Tribbett, Melech Thomas, and the Art of Creating an Appropriate Ministry
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Is it just us, or has the entertainment industry apparently recently gone on a truth-telling tour? The last stop was viral interview in the “Breakfast Club”, where the Grammy Award-winning gospel artist and Pastor Tye Tribbett he made a revealing admission: the current system and structure of the “(black) church sucks.” Tribbett’s assessment that “church” is losing relevance was in response to questions on the perceived decline of celebrity pastors in popular culture. It echoes the warning in his song “Sinking,” Tribbett went on to say, “The church should be about the people, but the church creates people around the church… They don’t serve the people and don’t love the people.”
While there may be undoubtedly some truth in his comments, as one might expect, Tribbett has faced a backlash from such ministers Pastor Mike McClure, Jr., who took to social media to say that the musician must have kept his criticism secret and could have also identified spiritual colleagues working to share the ministry.
However, the query stays: How do most preachers live and preach the gospel in an accessible way?
While many “saints” may reject the concept that the Church is crazy, Tribbett’s words weren’t lost ON Pastor Melech E. M. Thomaswho entered collective chat through footage of one of his sermons showing how he redefines gospel music; music that lifts his spirit. Last Sunday at Payne Memorial AME Church in West BaltimorePastor Thomas preached a sermon it has since gone viral, precisely because he spoke in an idiom and language that strange people recognize, and surprisingly, using the lyrics of someone he proposed, he’s GloRilla’s “new gospel artist” “Tomorrow.”
“I love good gospel music and there is this new gospel artist,” Thomas proclaimed. “Some of you may know her, some of you may not. … She’s from Memphis. Her name is Gloria Hallelujah Woods. Some of you may know her as GloRilla – yes, GloRilla… Well, GloRilla has a song titled “Tomorrow” and makes the following statement that blesses me. He says, “Every day the sun doesn’t shine, but that’s why I love tomorrow.” And I seek advice from some those that life hasn’t been the smoothest for you. But you understand that what Big Mama kept saying was right: “May the weeping last one night, but joy come in the morning.” That every single day just isn’t good. But if I live to see tomorrow, something might change. Well, have a look at your neighbor and say, “Yes, Glo.”
To be clear, this is not only about Thomas quoting a rapper – most black churchgoers know it might probably occur any Sunday. No, the fact is that unlike some of his Baltimore pastoral cohorts who took low cost shots at black women, prostitutes and those around them – even using lyrics like “These Hoes ain’t Loyal” – Thomas handled it and offered it up as holy a piece of art by an artist that many would consider blasphemous attributable to its sexually explicit and adult content.
Speaking with Father Thomas, a colleague and friend, he explained to us why and how he uses hip-hop as a lens to interpret Scripture. “We need to listen to the music our young people listen to,” he said. Like those of us who grew up with hip-hop and other forms of urban youth music – equivalent to go-go, house music, trap and other styles – there’s something to be said for recognizing and repurposing the same styles, expressions and storytelling , which popular artists use to convey messages that could be heard and understood.
As scholars and clergy, we understand that there have at all times been tensions in the community of faith over the use of “world music” to talk to the times. Thomas says he’s inspired by preachers like the Brethren and go-go pastors Tony’s turns AND Bill Lee Communities of Hope, who often are praised for his unconventional approach to ministry. Like Reverend Thomas, Fr. Tony and Bill Lee come from an AME tradition full of preachers in the Black prophetic tradition. From remixing go-go music to starting a church strip club (yes, really), these two brothers in blood and service show that God can use anyone and anything to bring hope, transformation and empowerment – to individuals and communities.
However, Thomas didn’t at all times agree with their culturally appropriate technique. In fact, he confessed that when he was 13, he didn’t like the Lee brothers’ references to hip-hop and go-go music of their sermons. He found their style problematic enough that he spoke to the Reverend Tony Lee to challenge his methodology. At a key point in his mentoring, Lee explained to Thomas that he was preaching in a language people recognized, and Thomas soon began to note the solid ethics and results that resulted.
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If a community of faith desires to stay relevant and forward-looking, there are three elements around which we must always all be open to listening and searching for understanding:
Authenticity and transparency: A community of faith can dare to be authentic and transparent about the real challenges of people’s faith. You can authentically connect along with your community without sacrificing your values. Combating the discomfort of sharing shortcomings could be each enlightening and lasting for audiences seeking to connect.
Adaptability and innovation: As society evolves, the Church should be open to adapting its approach to stay culturally appropriate and effective in meeting the needs of local communities. Tye Tribbett’s critique suggests that the church should embrace innovation and explore a brand new approach to ministry that privileges the well-being and empowerment of individuals over tradition, so-called holiness, and institutional behavior.
Empowerment and service: The faith community should prioritize enabling individuals to actively take part in the work of the Church and serve others in meaningful ways. Tye Tribbett’s emphasis on the essence of the church emphasizes the importance of shifting attention from institutional problems to the overall development and empowerment of its members.
In short, may those of us in spiritual leadership anticipate and be open to more conversations about learn how to engage our communities with messages of hope and learn how to use language and style that stretches us. Let’s attempt to consciously experience moments of introspection and have a good time the moments after we challenge ourselves to grow. We are higher equipped to succeed in latest heights and greater depths after we are willing to listen to from others who use language or share criticism that we may not hear from our inner circles. When we put our egos aside, we are able to trust that the Creator of the Universe will use whoever, each time and whatever is required, regardless of how essential. May we remain open to all ways in which lead us to holistically perfect our theology.
The Rev. Dr. Alisha Lola Jones is a faith leader helping people navigate a dynamic world, as a consultant to varied arts and faith-based organizations and as Professor of Music in Contemporary Societies at the University of Cambridge in Cambridge, England. She is an award-winning creator (Oxford University Press). For more information please visit DrAlisha.com.
Rev. Calvin Taylor Skinner is committed to strengthening frontline communities in Knoxville, Tennessee and the UK. He uses faith and politics to handle energy justice, criminal justice reform, voter education/mobilization, electoral politics, and global issues. He and his wife, Reverend Dr. Alisha Lola Jones, run InSight Initiative, a consulting firm focused on capability constructing and live event production.
Entertainment
An attempt to save the image of Jeff Bezos’ future wife backfired after weeks of outrage and ridicule over her skimpy outfit
Lauren Sánchez has apparently gained a popularity for her fashion hits and misses as social media users began following her every move.
Billionaire Jeff Bezos’ current fiancée stepped into the highlight long before she met the Amazon co-founder, after years spent as co-host of “Good Day LA,” a reporter for “Extra” and host of “So You Think You Can Dance,” and he even starred in a number of movies like “Ted 2.”
She faced criticism for posting a sultry selfie in November in a negligee-inspired gown by designer Laura Basca. In October, the 54-year-old again faced backlash when she showed off her latex Halloween costume as Catwoman.
Now, weeks after being deemed “cheap” and tasteless, the founder of Black Ops Aviation has turn out to be a subject of discussion.
On December 5, Sánchez and the business mogul attended The New York Times’ DealBook event in New York City. For the occasion, she wore a white Alexander McQueen suit and a white lace corset. The beaming bride-to-be sent two mirror selfies of her outfit, which she signed: “winter white.”
One follower particularly was stunned by the whole look he ejaculated that she was “very attractive and beautiful, gorgeous and stunning, charming and fantastic young lady, sexy, charming, charming and elegant” in the photos that Sánchez took.
Two other people swooned over the photos and wrote: “So chic and elegant!” and “You look great.” But as you would possibly expect from online viewers, not everyone was impressed.
Jeff Bezos’ fiancée, Lauren Sanchez, cropped a photograph of him in a jumpsuit and then set Instagram on fire with her look.https://t.co/n7YNGctQFE pic.twitter.com/DNKP2i9o9C
— Sean Joseph (@sjoseph_sports) December 2, 2024
When Page six published paparazzi photos from the trip, the critic commented: “It’s 30 degrees in New York and she gets out of the limo in a white Miami smock, her bra visible to everyone. No taste. Nothing. A cashmere turtleneck, flannel trousers and a wool jacket can be classy.
Someone else sharply asked: “Who can be the first to tell her that she looks tacky and not elegant and refined? Does she even know what sophistication means? A 3rd person noted: “She looks more like she’s wearing a bathrobe.”
Lauren Sanchez 2003 vs. Lauren Sanchez 2024
Nothing to see here, people, move on#LaurenSanchez pic.twitter.com/mgr4vj6mFq
— Occam was right (@OccamWasRight) November 21, 2024
Another person wrote in a comment from a licensed pilot: “White means…” possibly referring to rumors that Sánchez and Bezos are scheduled to exchange vows over Christmas. At least one person doubted the couple would have the opportunity to say “I do.” This person said: “This will be the longest engagement ever. They will NEVER get married and we all know why!!!!”
Sánchez told the “Today” show hosts that she was in the process of planning the big day last month. She didn’t comment on speculation about exchanging Christmas vows.
Renewed interest and scrutiny of Sánchez has increased as the pair have been spotted in various locations in recent months. The couple reportedly began dating in 2018. Their engagement was announced five years later, in May 2023. Their upcoming wedding can be a second journey for each of them.
Sánchez was previously married to celebrity agent Patric Whitesell, with whom she has two children. She can be the mother of a son, whom she shares with Pro Football Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez. Bezos was married to the mother of his three children, Mackenzie Scott, for 25 years once they divorced in 2019.
Entertainment
Apart from the song with singer-songwriter India Shawn – Andscape
India Shawn is a contemporary muse with a chilled nature, crafting love stories and heartfelt tales in smooth, charming songs. With over a decade of experience in the music industry as a singer-songwriter, Shawn has incredible strength. She was born in Los Angeles, and her musical roots reach throughout the country. Beginning her profession in her hometown, Shawn eventually found herself in Atlanta, where she immersed herself in the city’s deep-rooted R&B scene, further shaping her artistry.
“I transferred to ATL, I was in 10th grade, and that’s when my music journey really started,” Shawn told Andscape. “I met people who were trying to get by, so I ended up recording and learned what songwriting was really early on.”
Before releasing her debut EP in 2012, Shawn wrote songs and collaborated with artists similar to Chris Brown, El DeBarge, Keri Hilson and Monica. In 2013, she gained much more notoriety when Solange Knowles published her song “I’m Alive” on the Saint Heron compilationmarking her as an artist value watching.
Following the release of the single “There Must Be a God” from the Andscape soundtrack, she caught up with Shawn to learn more about the muse behind the vibes.
Name:
India Shawn
Hometown:
Los Angeles
Artistic soundscape
Airy, soft, telling a story, multidimensional, soft, mysterious, atmospheric
The oldest musical memory
Shawn’s soulful sound is deeply rooted in her upbringing, with influences drawn from her childhood memories and the musical culture of her church. “I sing with my sister all the time, and I also grew up singing behind my mom in church. She was the leader of praise and worship. So I feel like most of us R&B kids have that experience,” Shawn said. “I had these little solos in church, and I believe what made me consider in it was that after the service people got here as much as me with tears of their eyes and said, ‘You really moved me while you sang.’ “These early moments of connection with music and audiences laid the foundation for conveying depth and sensitivity through her music.
Influences
For Shawn, music, especially R&B, has all the time held a special place in her life. “Me and my sister are harmonizing in the living room, just picking some of our favorite songs, including for me Mariah Carey, Babyface, Boyz II Men and (and) Brandy,” she said of her early music memories.
Creative process
Shawn often draws inspiration from real-life experiences and relationships that influence her music. She weaves this into the authenticity and atmosphere of her songs, but she didn’t immediately recognize where her inspiration got here from. “It’s funny that it took me so long to make that connection, but I realized that I was telling my whole story and presenting my business through my music,” she said. “It took me two albums to realize, wait a minute, I’m giving people a lot to understand here… these aren’t just songs. This is truly the life I live.”
Challenges and development
As Shawn’s profession grows, so do his moments of appreciation and reflection. “I literally just thought about a very gradual progression of my career. It’s like step by step, but there are more breakthrough moments. My first tour, which was so beautiful, I just knew I could pack a room and people knew my lyrics and sang my songs to me. Those moments that make the waiting not in vain.”
Shawn has plenty of recommendation for up-and-coming singer-songwriters. Her biggest sacrifice? Collaboration is essential. “I think (cooperation) is really why I’m still here. So find your people… you’ll know when it feels right, you’ll have that freedom and fluidity, and you’ll be able to really create things and create without having to think too much.” He also shares the importance of patience. “Just be patient during the journey. This has been a theme throughout my profession. Let it develop. I feel like more things come from being in that flow and being present reasonably than forcing all of it.
Current project
“There should be a God”, the lead single from Andscape , now streaming on Hulu, also serves as a teaser for Shawn’s solo album. “(This song) is such a manifestation of God’s love,” she said. “I think when you find yourself in a place of waiting, you can feel very hopeless. So when you see glimpses of God’s love again, or the fact that you know there is a higher power, there is a source that is thinking about you, has you in mind, has a perfect plan for you, it’s just like the clouds parting. And this is the moment, I understand. I understand that I had to go through all this to get here. And that’s exactly what I felt in the studio that day.”
Entertainment
ICYMI: Tessa Thompson’s Mocha Lip, Danielle Brooks’ Updo and More – Essence
With just a number of weeks left until the tip of 2024, the celebrities are setting the tone for the brand new 12 months this week. And although mocha mousse is anticipated to be fashionable in 2025, neutral shades in darker tones have gotten more and more popular. Paired with an array of beauty eras – from elegant Twenties updos to 2000s-style round pink, the brand new Hollywood showcases its best 12 months-end beauty moments.
Tessa Thompson and Issa Rae are the newest to debut mocha lips holiday shade near the season, and Coco Jones’ lipstick was cranberry red. Doechii’s perforated suggestions and signature face-lift tape made it probably the most avant-garde look of the week, and within the sweetest moment, Chloe and Halle Bailey’s round pink cheeks made pink cheeks a winter styling staple.
From makeup to hairstyles, Sabrina Elba and Alva Claire opted for light, coffee colours, and Jourdan Dunn’s short hairstyle proved relevant at any time of the 12 months. Meanwhile, Lupita N’yongo, Danielle Brooks and Venus Williams’ braided buns showed just how classic this style may be.
In case you missed it, take a take a look at 17 of the very best celebrity beauty moments from the week below.
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