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Is GloRilla gospel? Tye Tribbett, Melech Thomas, and the Art of Creating an Appropriate Ministry

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Tye Tribbett, Melech Thomas, GloRilla, gospel music, Black church, Tye Tribbett Breakfast Club, COGIC, Christianity, faith and spirituality, Reverend Alisha Lola Jones, Reverend Calvin Taylor Skinner, theGrio.com

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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.”

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Tye Tribbett appears on “The Breakfast Club” on Power 105.1 FM on March 6, 2024. (Screenshot: The Breakfast Club/YouTube)

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.”

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GloRilla performs at the 2023 BET Awards at the Microsoft Theater on June 25, 2023 in Los Angeles. (Photo: Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET)

“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.

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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.

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This article was originally published on : thegrio.com

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Kevin Hart announced as the host of the BET 2025 awards

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2025 means 25 years of “Highest Night of Culture”, BET awards. Before the anniversary celebration, Bet announced that the comedian and actor Kevin Hart could be the host of the award.

“I love the celebration! It is a chance to reflect, cultivate and honor unforgettable moments of life,” said Hart in a press release. “I am really honored that I can organize the 25th BET awards and celebrate the largest night of culture. This year is the 25th anniversary, and my partners in Hartbeat, Bet and Jce (Jesse Collins Entertainment) make all the stop to remember. This is a black affair, and you are all invited.”

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For Hart Hosting The Award, the show is a bit full of moment. From the hosting of the comedy “Comic View: One Night Stand” in 2008, to the executive producer and appeared in the series of parody “Real Hollywood” 2013, The Star has an extended history with a network.

“For over a decade, Kevin Hart was a beloved part of the BET family and we could not be more excited that he returned to organize BET awards on the occasion of the 25th anniversary,” said the president and general director of Bet Scott Mills. “His unmatched talent, contagious energy and a deep connection with our audience make him an excellent host of this historical ceremony. Kevin was constantly crossing the boundaries of amusement. On the heels of the successful premiere of Bet+ the original series Lil Kev, we are happy to expand our partnership and continue to introduce groundbreaking projects.”

“Kevin Hart is the artist’s power. His influence includes a comedy, film, television and not only. We celebrate 25 years of BET awards, we could not come up with a more dynamic host of this historical night” – added Connie Orlando, EVP, special specialties, music program and music strategy. “Kevin’s incomparable charisma, comedy glow and deeply rooted connection with our culture make it a great choice to commemorate this milestone.”

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“For 25 years, the BET awards have been one of a handful of scenes strengthening and celebrating black talents, and the opportunity to provide the 25th anniversary of Marek, promises to provide final performances, powerful moments and sincere tribute reflecting the depth and wealth of black culture over the last quarter.”

2025 Bet Awards Air in the Network on June 9, 2025.

(Tagstotransate) Entertainment

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Watch: the star of “sinners” by Wunmi Mosaku with a performance in the best film of the country – Essence

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“I hope that people love these characters just like these characters.”

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In the thriller of the Ryan Coogler genre, Mossak He provides a layered and emotionally resonant performance as an annie-spiritual guide, healer and pillar of the southern community of Jim Crow struggling with the emerging, mysterious evil. In an interview with Essence, she described Annie as someone deeply connected with each earth and heritage.

Mosak’s admiration for the film began from the first pages of the script. “I have never read the script in which I took care of every character,” she said. The same emotions translated on the screen, because the film broke the money expectations with a gap weekend of USD 61 million and still mixes online.

Watch: the star of
Photographer: Ashley Randall Stylist: Shameelah Hicks Hair: Vernon Francois Makeup: Uzo

The actress nominated for Baft also praised Coogler’s vision, saying that “his artistry is so deep and necessary,” and assigned his intentional direction to shape the soul of the film. The soundtrack of the blues, focusing around the musical talent of Preacher Boy (played by Miles Caton), has change into a “heartbeat of history” – a symbol of love, anguish and identity.

Shoed in addictive formats and wealthy in powerful messages, it’s greater than a horror movie. It is a story about the community, spiritual consideration and, as Mosaku says, “a piece of culture”.

Essence: I do not think we ever invested in a movie as we’re, and I’m just enthusiastic about the world to see this movie.

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IMO Mosaku: Thank you very much! It’s good to see you again.

Similarly. Your character, Annie, is described as a spiritual leader and healer. Can you speak about the role he plays in community?

She is a spirit, conjurement of a woman and a healer. It is a pillar and community center. He owns a small store with roots, herbs and cooks. She is the second half of smoke. He is a component of it in the way he’s his healer and his sanctuary, his place of sensitivity and openness. He cannot hide from her. He cannot hide from him either. She is a mother and is someone who’s deeply rooted in her traditions. She is associated with her homeland and is associated with the spiritual world – she is a very powerful person.

It has a very unique plot and story. What attracted you to this movie?

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I mean, above all, Ryan Coogler is someone I deeply respect and encourage me. I just think that his artistry is so deep and crucial, and he’s a lighthouse and guardian of Panfryan culture. I mean that he’s a cultural guard and likes us and ours headlights. It seems to me that the first seven pages I even have read are one of the most beautiful magazines I’ve ever seen. The scene between Anna and Smoke. That’s all I had after I had my first meeting with him and I just felt this love for them.

I even have never read something that was so well written where you understand their history, regret, their love, their hopes, fears, their, their and why not, and I desired to be part of it from the moment I read it. I inspired him at this meeting. He is so thoughtful, he’s so intelligent and eloquent and sees things in the way I would like. I would like his eye to see it too. In the whole lot he did, I used to be very grateful for his perspective, and his wisdom taught me something for myself, for my hopes for the future.

Essence was capable of see the early cut of the movie. Because it was edited to what the world will see, you now have an elevated role in what the finished product is now. How much does it excite you and what do you hope that the audience will receive out of your performance in the movie?

I just feel so honored that I’m in this movie and I even have a bow that my character makes. It is an integral part of their understanding and fight. I hope that individuals love these characters identical to these characters. When I finished reading the script, I assumed, I never had it and I told my agent: “I never read a script in which I love and I don’t care about every character written on the site.” Regardless of whether at the starting she is a young girl in front of the store, guarding the truck. I really like her. I feel that I really like this scene. I really like teaching community. Everyone is written so well and I hope that every person who watches this movie, loves each of these characters and feels each of these characters in the same way as us.

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You spoke about smoke earlier, but now I need to speak about a pile. How it was to work next to the pile Smoke?

To be honest, the work of Michael Michael was so detailed that it was so clear who he was. Even while trying, his energy was different. When he got here to the set, when he was smoke, I felt as if we were interested in one another. It seems to me that especially in emotional scenes I even have at all times been on his side or behind him as support. And when he got stuck, he would do his job, and I might say, “Oh, this is a pile.” There was a change in energy with him that was so visible. I could say that I turned my back if he were smoke or stack – I could say so clearly. And in addition to the technical actual filming, making scenes in a certain way, it was actually quite easy. It was easy because they were so different.

How do you’re thinking that the big role of music and aspect of blues played for you in the movie?

Music is a heartbeat. I feel that Samm is a heartbeat – his love, his passion, his true voice, his journey to blues, his fight with his family, his discovery as an artist. I take into consideration blues and sammie that they’re entwined, and that it’s a journey of anguish and love. I feel blues is totally integral from the movie.

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So one thing I thought of it was really interesting after I conducted research before this conversation is that Ryan [Coogler] He called this film the movie “Comfort Food”. This is something he considers personal and exciting for him as a dense film because he’s a director, but of course I do know he’s a fan of cinema. How do you’re thinking that this energy translated on the set?

It was amazing. Ryan has such love and respect for creating movies and filmmakers, but he at all times said: “We create a serious film.” He spoke on daily basis, possibly 3 times “guys who make a serious film.” And it seems obvious, but in fact, when it says, you say: “Wow, we really do it. We really create something together.” And so she was at all times worshiped from all the surrounding Ryan and for the work she presents into the world. Feeling has at all times been respect, pleasure and understanding that we were creating a piece of culture.


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This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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The Nigerian model will break the world record for a 77-kilometer run

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The Nigerian model broke an unusual record for the fashion industry. 26-year-old Ololade Aylabola tried to break the record on the longest catwalk for five days.

Aylabola has spent 80 million Nair (or around 51,612.90 USD) at the end of this task, wanting to encourage other recent models. However, the journey was challenging because she tried to do what many couldn’t, especially in heels.

According to , Preparation for The cost of Ayelboli’s life lasted six months. She and her team worked to make certain that she could omit 77 miles needed to win the competition. Finally, she traveled a total of 77.75 miles at the LAGO fashion show in October last 12 months.

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“Preparing for me (it wasn’t) easy, (with) blood and then (it) cost us a lot, I will spend 80 million nair,” explained Aylabola. “For six months, me and (people) start (to) to prepare (because) not to be easy. Doctor and nurse (gave) medicine, so (I would be) ready.”

However, what led her was the initial disbelief and the lack of encouragement from other fashion shows to finish the challenge on the catwalk. Despite the negative feedback and aylabola’s bums, she remained determined to attain its haughty goal.

“I am going different competition, but (they) tell me that I am short. Plenti (people) no fit survive dat (something), on (what) (motivated) I am dat,” she explained.

When the walk lasted a few days, Aylabola faced injuries, including peeling legs. However, her supporting team used bandages with many treatments to make certain that she will have the option to part. They even needed to put their leg in ice water to stop her swelling.

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“On the third day, my legs, peel di Catwalk, on the fourth day of bandaging my leg and put me on ice water as my leg Don Swell.”

Although the catwalk has accepted real granularity and perseverance, Aylabola is now the title of one in all the biggest fashion feats.

(Tagstotranslatter) Catwalk (T) Guiness World Record (T) Nigerian model

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This article was originally published on : www.blackenterprise.com
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