Tek Me PikCha's Gospel Event Highlights & Reviews

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Tek Me PikCha. 4,464 likes · 107 talking about this. Tek Me PikCha provides social media and event photography.

Highlights of #BDFITS 2016 Held at the National Heroes Park - July 12, 2016 All photos courtesy of #TekMePikCha Follow us on IG: www.instagram.com/tekmepikcha Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/tekmepikcha Follow us on Tumblr: www.tumblr.com/blog/tekmepikcha Email us at Gmail: [email protected]

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‪#‎TekMePikCha‬ was invited to the ‪#‎MediaLaunch‬ and an exclusive listening session for ‪#‎GospelArtiste‬ ‪#‎KevinDownswell‬'s new ‪#‎album‬, "‪#‎AllTheWay‬" at the ‪#‎JAMPRO‬ Business Auditorium, May 17th. After releasing his first album (‪#‎CloseToYou‬) in 2008, followed by his sophomore album “The Search Continues” four years ago, International Gospel Recording Artiste Kevin Downswell is set to release his third‪#‎studio‬ #album “All the Way” in ‪#‎Kingston‬ on June 4th. Downswell emerged as one of ‪#‎Jamaica‬’s rising ‪#‎gospel‬ performers when he entered and won the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission’s (‪#‎JCDC‬) Gospel Song Competition in 2003 with his song “‪#‎Praise‬”. Downswell says his newest album is a “true reflection of his own journey on both a personal and spiritual level” and combines various styles and genres (including authentic ‪#‎reggae‬, ‪#‎contemporary‬-‪#‎worship‬, ‪#‎pop‬ and‪#‎dub‬ step) to demonstrate his unique gospel sound. Special guest attendee was the Hon. Olivia "Babsy"Grange MP, CD., Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment & Sport.

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PULSATE

August 28, 2015

A night filled with good performances is exactly what I would describe Ricardo Ellis (aka Dj Sticko) mixtape launch, held at 65 Waltham Park, NTCOG on August 28, 2015. 

Though the commencement was late, the Emcees for the night Angel and Jason, got right to work, in announcing the first ministers, who were Super Nova. Clayon was next to hit the stage followed by Joseph Emmanuel and Dunamis  Reignz. Dunamis  was quite the candid one during his set, expressing that Gospel concerts are not what they are suppose to be. From his viewpoint, he remarked that people are more focused on doing their own thing, rather than giving God praise. The attention of the audience was then locked to the stage as he ministered in song. 

Christina Roshay opened her set with Create in Me a Clean Heart, followed by her single Wrap up inna God, which was a crowd fav. The stage was set, for a mix-off segment between two Djs, Dj Rebirth and Dj Supa. Both selected high spirited songs, such as: Bible Inna di Air - Prodi, Keeping Me alive - Rondell’ Positive and Hurry Up - Sister Scully which lifted the energy to a next level. Though it wasn't exactly a competition, we at Tek Me PikCha clearly had our favourite Disc Jokey  "winning that battle.”

Blue-i-steppa build on that energy, as he was next to minister. He was followed by Jamaican Gospel Rapper - Bawn Agen, who involved everyone during his set, with his songs New Creation and Break it down. Tiffany Hall Johnson, former JCDC contestant was quite the soulful one, thrilling the audience with her song called Waiting. Just when we thought the energy could not lift any higher, J-Projeck, Minister Bless, Latoya Hamilton, Kevin Smith and Chozenn, all made us think otherwise. Dynamic is one word I would use to describe each set, especially Latoya Hamilton's. She captured the crowd with her two dub poems: Balance Di Scale and Unique to You. 

The mixtape launch, which was officiated by DJ Sticko, was no doubt a blast. Everyone also got a chance to hear some their favourite song. Judging by all indications, the evening went well.

I give this one a 7.5.

Tek Me PikCha Blogger

Davio Williams

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A Grand Celebration Party

Many patrons congregated at the Jamaica College's Hendrickson Auditorium, on Sunday, July 26, 2015 to celebrate the 35th Birthday of the well known Gospel Artiste, Jermaine Edwards and also the 10th Anniversary of his label, Island Worship Productions. Tekmepikcha was invited and got an insight on this most anticipated event.

A jam packed event it was on Sunday, that contributed to a couple of unfortunate situations that were overlooked by some in attendance, but for others it was quite evident, and complaints were raised.

There were the long lines leading to the food station, owing to limited staff and food stations. However, some patrons committed themselves to wait, hoping to be the next one to be served, while some left the lines and proceeded to KFC to get food! The food received at the event, did not meet the expectation for some, given the purchase price for tickets, while for others, no food was received at all.

The ambiance at the event gave a cool vibe to the celebration. Though there was an absent in good stage decor, the lights were a good camouflage.

The energy was a huge as it did not die at all. Though the performances on stage stopped, creating some dead-time, the resident Djs of the evening, Dj Sticko and Dj Marlon, were on their "A" game, ensuring that the energy continued to flow, with body rocking musical selections.

Contributing to the spirited evening, was the nights Emcee, - Dwight 'Barrelman' Ross, who kept the audience fully attentive with his comedic persona. Also in attendance was Christopher Johnny Dailey; an establish comedian as well; kept the audience on the edge of their seats, with humorous jabs on church people. Many Gospel Artistes came out to give their support to Minister Edwards, and in doing so, they gave resounding tributes, adding to a good night for the Island Worship Singer. Those gracing the stage were Chozenn, Pastor Ryan Mark, Minster Lubert Levy, Carlene Davis, Kevin Heath, Rondell Positive, Kevin Downswell and others. Mr Edwards treated his fans to a live performance as well, and not only that, but he also gave plaques to those who contributed to his success as a gospel artiste and he also gave recognition to those who were celebrating their birthday as well.

Before this blog was penned, Jermaine Edwards had expressed his disappointment and issued an apology, in an open post on his Fan Facebook Page. He however has been strengthened by his die-hearted fans, who gave him words of consolation.

My encouragement to him is that; life has lessons of it's own to teach us and this will lead us to to the path to success. Personally, this review was not an easy one to conduct given the artiste and spirit of excellence that usually follows him. However the concept of an all inclusive celebration (for local gospel) was terrific and I do hope that the next one will be bigger and better.

Tek Me PikCha Blogger

Davio Williams

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A New Chapter of Kevin Downswell's Journey as a gospel artistes unfolded on July 25th 2015 at 5 Keesing Avenue. The event - a well staged one saw the launch of Minister Downswell’s very first book, dubbed: The Search Continues.... The Journey.

By the time Tek Me PikCha arrived, the book launch was winding down. But it was evident that many patrons came out to support Minister Downswell, and were very enthused about his book and what it had to offer. Immediately following, patrons were lined up with their own purchased copy of “The Journey”, waiting for the multi-talented artiste to ink his autograph in their pages. The book launch was not the only highlight of the evening, but following that was a concise and dynamic concert to treat his die-hearted fans.

The Concert featured five dynamic Gospel Artistes, who represented Gospel music in various genres. They included:

The Soulful Minister, Lotoya HD, who opened the concert...

The vibrant D-Murphy, giving us a high energy set...

On The Shout Band, who gave a pulsating acoustic performance...

Omari Edwards, who was a crowd favourite..

Lotoya Hamilton who excited the crowd with her poetic performance.

In a puff of white smoke and coloured stage flood lights, came the man of the night; Kevin Downswell, smartly attired in a baby blue jacket and white pants and was backed by the On the Shout Band. The gospel artiste/author, delivered well, as was evident by the jubilation from fans, on the tightly packed Keesing compound, as he sang hit after hit.

Given the artiste, entrance fee and cause behind the event, Tek Me PikCha was a bit shocked that 5 Keesing Avenue was not “bursting at the seams”. Refreshments were ok, though one main cater was apparently late.

Nonetheless, Kevin Downswell Live at Keesing was no doubt a successful event, and from all indications patrons left feeling satisfied. We give this one a strong 8.5!

Tek Me PikCha Blogger

Davio Williams

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On Sunday, June 28, 2015, Tek Me PikCha attended the Meadowbrook High School, for a musical production, dubbed: A Jubilant Song...The Musical Celebration. 

This was officiated by the Meadowbrook High School Choir, who are the 2014 winners of the Choir Competition, All Together Sing. The choir consists of twenty seven members, who all performed at the production; doing over twenty nine pieces that perhaps unduly included costume changes for all performances. The majority of the pieces presented however were phenomenal, as the choir captured the attention of the audience with songs such as: The Revival Medley, The Folk Medley, as well as the melodic gospel songs in which the audience could not get enough of; I count myself as one of those individuals. 

Tekmepikcha had the opportunity to speak to the main director and producer of the entire production, Mr. David Bailey. According to Mr. Bailey, it was their second annual production, in which they only had four weeks of preparation. He also stated that, he is satisfied with the overall production and from his observations, he realizes that his audience were more than satisfied as well. He said if he could change one thing, it would be, the spaces in between performances used for narration, and the time used for each costume change. When asked about his personal opinion on the production he commented that the it was near to being flawless!

Tekmepikcha unreservedly gave this presentation a solid 7 out of 10!

Tek Me PikCha Blogger - Davio Williams

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WORSHIP FEAST - RED HILLS

“For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst.” – Matthew 18:20.

 I'm amazed at God's faithfulness. Worship Feast was the high point of my weekend; the love, the fellowship, the unity, the joy and happiness that was shared. – Kareem Haynes [facebook status]

 The Worship Feast team journeyed to the Red Hills Baptist Church on May 17, 2015, and Tek Me PikCha was there to capture the event.  It was a fulfilling and intimate time with the Lord, which caused transformation and healing. 

No spectators, just worshipers - that was the instruction given as they went into the opening prayer to invoke the presence of the Most High God.

Jermaine Gordon spoke on dismantling strongholds and how they are designed to prevent us from achieving our divine destiny.  Evangelist Kimola Brown-Lowe then exhorted the body. She told the members of Red Hills Baptist Church that they were strategically placed there because every time God desired worship or sacrifice He sent His servant to a hill.

Minister Andrea Hinds led the congregation into worship with Hezekiah Walker's – “I Need You To Survive”. Grace Thrillers lead singer Pastor Latoya HD sang one of Thrillers’s favourite “We Come Here To Praise the Lord” as the Vessels of Worship Dancers took to the stage with tambourines. Members of the team then shared encouraging words and testimonies. Suddenly, the atmosphere shifted, as the congregants lifted their hands and cried out unto God, seeking for a closer encounter with Him.

Other highlights for the night were Vessels of  Worship Dance Ministry and Gospel Recording Artist Chozenn who sang “God Love You Enuh” for the collection of the offering. Finally, altar call was done by Pastor Latoya HD where the invitation for souls to be saved was made and for faith to be strengthened.

I must say it was one of the most powerful altar calls I have seen in a while.

Tek Me PikCha Blogger Samique Ferguson

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Worship Feast - Gregory Park NTCOG

The feeling is always extraordinary when one is ushered into the presence of God. We can definitely say that Sunday May 3, 2015 was one of those moments. To partake of something that opens you up spiritually and entices you to want more and more of God, is a unique experience. The event is known as the "Worship Feast", and consists of a team of worship leaders and an excellent backing band, gives you that opportunity to experience worship at its best. This was held at the Gregory Park, NTCOG in Portmore.

The move of God was evident right throughout the night, as hearts and souls were permeated while basking in God's Presence. Commencing with exhortation from scriptures, Evangelist Kimola Brown and the group led a teeming congregation  with non-stop worship songs and vibrant medleys,  adding to some of the highlights of the evening. Many exalted God in lifting praises to His name and when that wasn't enough, they marched and dance jubilantly to songs like: We are "Marching in the Light Of God" and "I know Who I Am".

In between all those praise activities, all were fed with some encouraging words and testimonies to help in their walk with Christ. Without a doubt the anointing was rich and impactful.  All who were in attendance, feasted upon the banquet table of Gods Glory; this blogger was one of them.

Tek Me PikCha Blogger

Davio Williams

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Prodi - Album Launch 2015

“PERFECTLY IMPERFECT”

An ebullient night it was at the Emmanuel Apostolic Church, Slipe Road, on April 24, 2015 for the Album Launch of Prodigal Son, who now goes by the name Prodi. Beaten down with criticisms and disagreements from most of his disenchanted church fans, because of his move to focus on producing more topical and some may say controversial material; was clearly identifiable owing to the numbers that came out in support.

Kicking off with Praise Worship, the event flowed with some resounding performances that included, dub poetry, and selections from Emmanuel Dance Ministry and the Emmanuel Mass Choir. Emcee, Nadine Blair introduced the first  artiste for the night, which was Marlon Christy; his song, “Naa Give Up Jesus”, resonated well with the audience. Next was, Jah-Lil; who opened with an acapella praise and worship song, after which he branched off into the song everyone was anticipating, “One Wrong, One Right”. D- Murphy took to the stage after, and thrilled the audience with two songs, “Out Of Body Experience” and “Jesus Whatever”. Shepherd came and delivered an energetic segment; “What A Day” was a hit. It was then time to hear from the main man of the night, Calvin Curtis (Prodi), who electrified the stage with songs from the Album Perfectly Imperfect , “Strong Like A Lion Heart”, “Different Strokes”, “Mi Know Jah” and “Never Leave”.

He honoured many requests as well, doing some oldies from his previous album, which included: “Journey”, “Head Can't Hot Suh”, “Blessings A Run Mi Down” and “Ketch A Fire”. He got an energetic response from his die-hearted fans, contributing to the fun-filled evening. Although the support received at the launch was not a plus, Prodi didn't seem daunted. He appeared comfortable with all who came out to support him, as those same persons were the ones chanting "we want more!", when the event came to its closure. That in itself was a testament of what I dubbed as a great launch. We give this one a 8!

TekMePikCha Blogger

Davio Williams

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BAWN AGEN - Album Launch 2015

Constant Spring Road, specifically 12 North End Plaza, came alive on April 19 2015, for the staging of Bawn Agen's Album Launch, held on the roof of a business complex. As patrons arrived, they were welcomed with vibrant musical selections, managed by Dj Sticko . The night's event featured seventeen lyrical and electrifying performances, all introduced by Shannon Reid, the emcee for the evening.

Youth Destination Band, were the first ministers, followed by Infrared Gospel Band who were the supporting musicians and musical accompaniment for many of the performances.  Sister Lowe, Survivor; who is the brother of Bawn Agen, Confidence, Andriene Lewis, Dee Mac, J'son, Nex Change, Favour Of God and Dav as well as Shirley Mac, all ministered exceptionally. Amongst those, were some lyrical men of God who undoubtedly gave unforgettable performances, they were: Joseph Emmanuel; who engaged everyone during his set, D.A Jay with his militant sound, that always resonates well with the audience, Jim Radical; who grabbed everyone's attention while ministering and who was later accompanied by Icon to do his last song "Got To Be Focus".

J-Projek got everyone in a praise mode. St. Matthew impacted the audience with potent lyrics, as everyone including this blogger, was in full attention. Last but not least, the man of the hour, Mr. Fitzroy Samuels  aka "Bawn Agen" who was very captivating while on stage, distributing his unique Rap style, which was well received by everyone. He sang few songs from the Album which went down well with the audience. These included: Break It Down and Bawn Agen. He collaborated with some of the Artiste during their set, such as his brother Survivor and also St. Matthew. Bawn Agen closed off the launch by performing his last song with the Artiste Icon, which was called "Call Upon Christ".

Low budget production, late programme start and a fair attendance did not dampen the high energy of the launch. Also there was a strong support from other gospel artistes in attendance, such as Dunamis Reignz and Christina Roshay to  name a few.

Christian rap? Definitely not a genre that Jamaicans are use to. However if Bawn Agen's album is anything to go by, we can certainly say it is here to stay.

We give this Launch a 7!

TekMePikCha Blogger

Davio Williams

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Hallelujah 2

Central Village Community Centre in Spanish Town was the place to be on April 6 (Easter Monday), as the second staging of Hallelujah, was held by one of the most exuberant Gospel Artiste and winner of the JCDC competition in 2004, Lubert Levy. Many came out in support of this event, to the point where there were hardly enough seats to accommodate everyone. However most were not affected by this, as the majority were willing to stand.

The commencement of the show was a bit late, but Dj Sticko kept everyone occupied , until the show started. The first agenda of the night was Praise and Worship, led by the night’s Emcee, Anjell Bryan; who is also the reigning Festival Queen. It was a very packed show, which consisted of nineteen artistes, including the Tek It By Force minster (Lubert Levy) and his Children, (Levy’s Heritage) who are the 2012 JCDC Gospel Festival winners.

Two words, superb and dynamic, could  describe most of the performances that night; and although the acoustics was not so pleasant, the energy never faded. Those artistes who contributed to such unforgettable performances would be the group, Radical Weapons, who opened their set with a African Praise and Worship song, Apostle, who kept the audience jamming, the JCF Choir, who sang like angels, Dawn Martin, who kept the praise flowing,  Kereen Gregory, who ministered Soulfully and George Nooks, who was very energetic, and captivated the audience with hit songs such as “God is Always There for Me”, and “God is Standing by”. Christina Roshay, J. Sparks, Kim Alex, Marlon Christy, C.M.J, Edwin Myers, Radic, Chozenn, Dunamis and Katalyst Crew, all gave resounding performances as well, that added to a great evening! Levy’s Heritage blessed the stage as one of the last ministers for the night, and they kept the audience on their feet all throughout, setting the stage for the most anticipated artiste of the night - Lubert Levy.

Though the Devil tried to break all levels of energy at this Concert, God stepped in and aborted those plans! I was blessed and I’m sure that the majority who were in attendance, shared this same sentiment. We give this one a 7!

TekMePikCha Blogger

Davio Williams

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Engaging is what I would use to describe the Radic, Sasha & Friends Concert, held  this month on the complex of the Alternative Studio (Keesing Avenue). If you missed it, here is a recap. 

Tardy start and an unexpected low turnout, was not necessarily a lasting reflection on the night’s event. However harsh and uneven stage lighting was. Nadine Blair of Love 101 FM was the emcee for the concert.

Christina Roshay, the first artiste for the night, gave a soulful & energetic performance, from which “Wrap Up Inna God”, was a crowd favourite. The second artiste was, Kyann Knight; who sang her heart out. Amidst personal struggles, she profess that it was not about her, but all about God. In closing her set, she sang an original called: Give Me Jesus.  The Third, Forth and fifth Artistes, were Revelation (new kids on the block), Marlon Christy and Fitzroy Blackman who all delivered well.

Chozenn thrilled the audience with popular renditions such as, “God Love You Ennuh”, “Hold Dem Yah” and “Jelly Wata”. Omari hit the stage next doing eight songs, which all resonated with the audience. The song that stood out for me was called: After 12. Dawn Martin was next and she kept the praise flowing all throughout her set, with songs like: “Jesus is His Name” and “I Belong to God”. This paved the way for D.A.Jay, who had a distinct sound, of militancy in his performance, which I believe was well received.

Then came the radical woman of God, Sista Sasha, who vibed with the audience throughout her set, singing song selections, that showed versatility in lyrics, and which also contributed to an engaging and energetic performance. The last artiste for the night was no stranger to the gospel arena, as he was a part of the popular gospel group Katalyst Crew; Radic is his name. Though he confessed to being ill prior to the event, it was not evident during his set, as he gave God his all in each song, much to delight of the gathering.

After the show, I got one on one with the person behind the event - Noel McBeam . He shared with me that the purpose of the event, was to introduce new artistes who are signed to his Label: Try God Records, such as Sista Sasha, Radic, Dawn Martin and Revelation. Mr. McBeam  started the Try God Movement in 2008 and according to him, his aim is to go global with his label and in doing so, he wants to see Jamaican Gospel music soar to a higher level Internationally.

His views on the event, was one of satisfaction, and said that if he could change anything, it would be to improve on the promotion of the event, so that many more patrons could have been in attendance. However he was pleased with everything else.

If I were to sum up the entire event with a sentence, it would definitely be “God was glad, and the devil was mad, to God be the Glory.”

TekMePikCha Blogger

Davio Williams