Lyrics and Melody

Billy Always is a singer, songwriter, and musician with talents beyond measure. He has been performing and recording for many years and was molded in the birthplace of Gospel music, Chicago, IL. He is the godson of the Queen of Gospel, Mahalia Jackson and was lovingly referred as Aretha Franklin's little brother. His accounts and memories are humorous as he looks back on his career and journey. You can find Billy singing in churches throughout Chicago as well giving his own concerts and performances.

Gospel music historian, Bob Marovich is no stranger to the gospel circuit. He has been a big supporter of the genre and can be seen at many of Chicago's gospel programs. He is invited to speak and present on his research throughout the country and is known as the "Blue-Eyed Soul Child." Bob has many articles, liner notes, and reviews to his name but his largest body of work is his book entitled A City Called Heaven: Chicago and The Birth of Gospel Music. Bob has a podcast, TV Show and a blog all devoted to music.

Avid gospel music lover, Marcel West organized a celebration concert honoring the pioneers of gospel in Detroit. This concert was the byproduct of the documentary called, Detroit: The Gospel Journey that he produced. It is available on DVD and can be acquired through Mr. West. It is a body of work that every music lover should have in their collection.

The rising powerhouse vocalist shares his experiences about music, performing, working with Postmodern Jukebox, and going viral with Rep. Maxine Waters' "Reclaiming My Time" quote. His voice is one that demands attention with its clarity and agility.

In today's episode we get the chance to talk with Mr. Mark Hayes. He is one of the leading composers and arrangers of our time and by far one of the most humble spirits in music. In this episode he discusses his start in music, inspiration behind writing and arranging, thoughts on today's printed music market, work as a guest conductor from local churches to Carnegie Hall, and hymns in the church.

Joining in on today's episode is none other than the prolific and anointed A. Jeffrey LaValley. He is a renowned and respected musician throughout the country. His gospel piano licks are coveted by many. He is the writer of the smash hit Revelation 19:1 (Hallelujah, Salvation, and Glory). Listen as he shares his start in gospel, notable collaborations, playing for the Gospel Pioneer Reunion, songwriting, and playing tambourine for the Queen of Soul, Ms. Aretha Franklin.

In this episode, Kenji talks about the difference between Hymns and Gospels. Simply put, everything in the hymnal is not a hymn!

In this episode composer and musician, Carlton Burgess discusses his musical influences, compositions, Million Man March Choir, and more. Burgess' most recent endeavors are his Hymn Lovers Conference that attracts recording artists and composers throughout the country. He also serves as founder and artistic director of the Burgess School of the Arts in Tampa, FL. which has nurtured talented individuals around the bay area.