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
Kim Kardashian’s lingerie photoshoot draws criticism from fans who say it’s ‘extremely shameful’
Kim Kardashian’s latest SKIM partnership appears to be under fire for the second time, lower than per week after the serial businesswoman announced her collaboration with Dolce & Gabbana.
Initially, critics accused Kim and her sister Kourtney Kardashian – each of Armenian descent – of attempting to imitate the style and aesthetic of Italian icons comparable to Sophia Loren in promotional photos for the Dolce & Gabbana and SKIMS collaboration.
However, the newest response focuses on Kim wearing a Catholic rosary during a promotional shoot.
In the photo sent on her Instagram, the 44-year-old mother of 4 is seen wearing white underwear from the SKIMS and Dolce & Gabbana lines. Although the rosary just isn’t the focus of the shoot, its presence was met with heavy criticism on social media, with many individuals questioning the appropriateness of pairing a non secular symbol with revealing underwear.
Social media users didn’t refrain from commenting on The Daily Mail.
“Why does she always wear a cross when she’s half naked… like wtaf,” one person asked.
Another joked: “Nothing about you is sacred, take off your rosaries lol.”
A 3rd commenter said: “Uhm, did you ever consider the rosary before you took a half-naked photo of him? This is beyond shameful for your actions!”
Some critics have compared her to Madonna, who was famous for incorporating religious symbols into her provocative fashion selections within the Nineteen Eighties.
One person wrote in Spanish: “Quizás se inspira de la cantante Madonna,” which translates to “Maybe she was inspired by the singer Madonna.”
Another noted: “Madonna made a splash with this style in the 80s, but it was a stylish twist,” before adding: “She’s just blah, lazy and disrespectful. The worst thing is that she doesn’t even know that she is insulting thousands and thousands by attempting to be upset. Just thirsty.
The response deepened, with one user sarcastically asking: “Where is the holy water!!??? It must be splashed.
For Catholics, the rosary is a sacred symbol of piety and prayer. Traditionally it’s used as a tool to guide worshipers through a meditative sequence of prayers, with each bead representing a selected a part of the ritual.
It is usually utilized by Roman Catholic believers to reflect on significant events within the lives of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary. A full rosary normally incorporates 59 beads, divided into five groups, or dozens, each containing 10 smaller prayer beads.
Kim Kardashian posed in white SKIMS underwear paired with a rosary, revealing her washboard belly.
The photos sparked controversy amongst some social media users who accused Kim of mocking Catholicism due to the religious symbolism of the rosary. pic.twitter.com/PBDuAe7MyJ
— Reporter (@thereportercom) November 24, 2024
This just isn’t the primary time Kim has faced criticism for wearing religious symbols.
After recently celebrating her forty fourth birthday, she made headlines after wearing an Attallah cross, a big amethyst and diamond pendant famously worn by Princess Diana.
A cross fabricated from gold, silver and precious stones was one in all Diana’s signature items. Kim acquired the pendant in 2023 and wore it on November 2 on the Art+Film gala on the Los Angeles County Museum.
Critics accused her of being “obsessed” with wearing items that after belonged to deceased iconic women.
Adding fuel to the fireplace, Kim styled the cross by wearing a white Gucci gown with a plunging neckline, allowing the pendant to rest between her neckline. Fans called the look disrespectful, arguing that it reduced a big symbol to a mere accessory.
Although there’s at all times controversy surrounding the Kardashians, the cooperation with the Italian brand turned out to be extremely successful.
The vCollection officially launched in select stores and on SKIMS.com on November 19. According to to page six, the positioning crashed as a result of heavy traffic.
The SKIMS x Dolce & Gabbana collaboration features luxury underwear described as “curve-emphasizing pieces for everyday confidence.” It also includes sexy items that may be worn outdoors, like a skintight leopard print dress that retails for $498.
Despite the backlash, neither Kim Kardashian nor her team responded to the controversy. Why should they? It seems that the controversy has pushed her brand and made it the mega money-maker that it’s.
Entertainment
Tina Turner turned to Cher for advice years before 1976. The beating that led to Ike Turner’s breakup reveals new memories
Pop singer Cher has never forgotten the connection advice she gave to her longtime friend Tina Turner; a conversation that could have helped save Tina’s life.
In her bomb new memoir, Cher: The Memoir Part 1, Cher recalls how Tina turned to her for advice on how to leave her abusive husband, Ike Turner. The memoir gives an insight into the “Believe” singer’s personal life and reveals shocking details of her early relationship with Sonny Bono, who she says was “abusing” her.
In the Seventies, the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll” appeared twice on Cher’s variety show along with her husband Ike. Cher recently left Bono, citing infidelity and involuntary servitude, and the 2 singers became fast friends.
One day while filming, Tina broke down and asked her friend and fellow singer to apply makeup to cover up a bruise on her arm. In her memoir, the Grammy winner recalled the “Private Dancer” artist, asking how she found the courage to leave Bono, who owned all of the rights to her music.
“I looked at her and said, ‘I just left and moved on,'” Cher writes.
The “I Got You Babe” singer met Bono when she was 16 and he was 27, and the couple moved in together while waiting to get married. Bono had just divorced his first wife, Donna Rankin, which required a waiting period under California law, and Cher was too young to legally marry. It was during this time that Cher had a terrifying encounter along with her late ex-husband, during which he pushed her against a wall after pushing their dog together with his foot.
“He didn’t scream or hit me, but he held my arms and his face was tight,” Cher revealed in her memoir via “People” “I was so against the abuse because I saw my mom go through it that I was like, F— this.”
Cher and Tina Turner performing “Shame, Shame, Shame” on The Cher Show, 1975 pic.twitter.com/ISgNY3pDTa
— David Rush (@dav1drush) May 24, 2023
“If you touch me like that again, I will leave your ass and that will be the last time you see me,” Bono said. They married in 1969 and in the identical 12 months their child Chaz was born. The pop duo eventually divorced in 1975.
Meanwhile, Tina endured much worse horrors while living with Ike, as she wrote about in her autobiography, “I, Tina,” published in 1986, during her meteoric rise as a solo artist – and nine years after the divorce. Their story was also documented within the film “What’s Love Got to Do with It” starring Angela Bassett and Lawrence Fishburne.
Like Cher, Tina was just a teen when she met 25-year-old Ike, and three years later they’d a son, Ronnie Turner.
In a 1981 interview with People, the “Nutbush City Limits” singer recalled the terrifying night of July 1, 1976, when she finally escaped from her abusive ex while on tour and staying in a Dallas hotel. Two more years passed before they officially divorced.
“Ike got a bit irritated that day and hit me with the back of his hand. I wagged my finger at him and said, “Okay, you.” Then he beat me all the best way from the airport to the hotel,” she said. “When he fought, he used things, not only his hands. When we got to the hotel, the left side of my face was swollen like a monster. But I never cried. I laughed. I laughed because I knew I used to be leaving. No more of this.
Stop posting joyful family photos of Ike and Tina Turner when she herself said, “I was so scared of that man.”
As a black woman exposing the horrors of domestic violence within the Nineteen Eighties, she stood up for all women. She broke the silence.
We owe it to her, very much. pic.twitter.com/HpHqaU56nc
— Dr. Charlotte Proudman (@DrProudman) May 25, 2023
Turner convinced a friend to buy her a plane ticket to Los Angeles, and he or she flew out that evening with 36 cents in her pocket. Ike eventually died of a cocaine overdose in 2007, and Tina later admitted that she never forgave him for abusing her.
In her memoir, Cher writes that she noticed Ike’s stoic personality during his time on her show. She stated that during rehearsals, Ike “didn’t smile once” and played the guitar “without any emotion”.
“I just knew that whatever I was feeling, it wasn’t good,” she recalled.
After leaving Ike, Tina returned to the Cher show in 1977 as a solo star, making her first television appearance without Ike, singing “Makin’ Music is My Business”. Cher and Tina would remain lifelong friends until Tina’s death in 2023.
Reactions to the reports have been mixed on social media, with some wondering why Cher, now 78, is digging into Tina’s personal life. “Cher, don’t comment on Tina, give her a break, thanks to the management,” one among them commented Instagram user as one other said: “Why are you bringing this up now, Cher!?”
However, many praised Cher for telling the reality about her dear friend. One person wrote: “I LOVE TT and Cher!!! And one thing Cher doesn’t do is lie.”
“Tina probably almost overdosed, or read her book, or watched what love has to do with it. Ike gave her hell,” said one other person.
Another added: “You can tell who really knows their friendship story and who doesn’t. Cher was one among the last people to see Tina alive and visited her. Tina and Cher have been dead for a long time. You guys are weird with this false failure.
Part 2 of The Cher Diaries is scheduled for release in 2025.
Entertainment
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s surprise date for ‘Moana 2’ Hawaii premiere steals the show
Professional wrestler-turned-actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, 52, stars in the latest film “Moana 2.”
He attended the animated sequel’s world premiere on November 21 in Oahu, Hawaii, along along with his 76-year-old mother, Mataniufeagaimaleata “Ata” Johnson.
Disney’s verified Instagram account posted a video of The Rock and Ata during the premiere. They danced together alongside the Polynesian dance group Nonosina.
“I all the time say that if you’ve a great mother, you’ve a likelihood to turn out to be a great, caring person. This weekend, let’s all give our moms great gratitude and make them glad,” The Rock stated about Ata in a ceremonial speech Instagram post in June 2022
More Instagram users were excited to see the Hollywood entertainer lovingly interacting along with his mother during the “Moana 2” event.
One person in the Disney comment section on Instagram sent“I like it very much! “I can’t wait to take my children and my Samoan husband to see it.”
A second commenter wrote: “I absolutely love the way he loves his mom. You can see the love they’ve for one another. This bond is so strong that not only do they show you what love is, but once you see it, you may feel it.
Another mother shared her own child’s response to the clip, writing: “My daughter talks about this all the time! Can’t wait!”
As for Moana’s possible future plans, someone suggested, “They need to make a live-action movie ASAP.”
Other members of The Rock’s family joined him in Hawaii. His wife, Lauren Hashian, and their two children also saw the musical adventure film for the first time.
In addition to the former WWE champion being a part of the solid of “Moana 2,” Johnson’s daughters, 9-year-old Jasmine and 6-year-old Tiana, also participated in the film.
“It was the sweetest and funniest day! So exciting that Munchkins voiced characters in MOANA 2!! MOANA-BE!” Hassian wrote on Instagram.
Hashian added: “This film has truly always been the most important thing to them, and now they have an even more special bond.”
She also uploaded a behind-the-scenes video of Jasmine and Tiana recording dialogue for “Moana 2” at Walt Disney Animation Studios.
The Rock was born into wrestling on either side of his family. Ata Johnson (née Fitisemanu Maivia) is the adopted daughter of former Polynesian Pro Wrestling owner “High Chief” Peter Maivia.
Former WWF World Tag Team Champion Rocky Johnson is The Rock’s father. Rocky was one in every of the first black champions in WWF/WWE history.
Dwayne inducted his history-making father and legendary grandfather into the WWE Hall of Fame as a part of the 2008 class.
Due to his grandfather Maivia, The Rock has loose family ties to the famous Anoaʻi family, which incorporates WWE Superstars akin to Rikishi, Yokozuna, and Roman Reigns.
The Rock’s eldest daughter with ex-wife Dana Garcia, 23-year-old Simone “Ava” Johnson, currently works for WWE as the on-screen general manager of the NXT brand.
Ata gave birth to The Rock on May 2, 1972. The Seven Bucks Production founder’s childhood and teenage years were dramatized in the short-lived comedy series “Young Rock” on NBC, airing for three seasons from 2021 to 2023.
Three actors portrayed The Rock at different stages of his life – Adrian Groulx (10 to 14 years old), Bradley Constant (15 to 17 years old) and Uli Latukefu (18 to 26 years old).
Stacey Leilua played Ata on “Young Rock,” which ran for three seasons from 2021 to 2023. Joseph Lee Anderson played Rocky Johnson.
After conquering the pro wrestling world, The Rock turned to Hollywood to guide blockbusters akin to “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” and the “Fast and Furious” franchise.
In the original “Moana,” a TKO executive voiced Maui, a shape-shifting demigod. “Moana” premiered in 2016 and grossed over $643 million worldwide.
“The character of Maui, which I was fortunate enough to bring to life, was inspired by my grandfather and he is buried here. Damn, this is… something special,” The Rock said, in keeping with ABC7NY.
“Moana 2” will hit U.S. theaters on November 27. The voice solid also includes Auli’i Cravalho, Temuera Morrison and Nicole Scherzinger.
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