| Bishop T.D. Jakes is an impressive force in Gospel. Whether it in his preaching or teachings on audio to video or his writings (Woman Thou Art Loosed and The Lady Her Lover and Her Lord), or his plays (Behind Closed Doors), his influence is being felt everywhere. Now the Dallas-based spiritual leader has added recording impresario to his list of accomplishments.
The Storm Is Over, is the debut project from Dexterity Sounds, Jakes' newly-formed venture with EMI Gospel. But this is not his first foray into the music industry. Prior releases include Sacred Love Songs and the recording of Women Thou Art Loosed. Why music? "Music is such a powerful universal language that transcends denominations and cultures," he said. "One of my goals has always been to be a bridge between races and cultures and denominations. Music is a wonderful way to bridge the gaps that exist in our society."
The album was recorded over two nights last December at the Bishop's $32 million, 8,000-seat mega-church in Dallas, Texas known as the Potter's House. It features a mix of contemporary and traditional gospel music performed by the Potter House Mass Choir and special guest Donnie McClurkin and Beverly Crawford. It also features vocalists D'Atra Hicks, Rodney Boyden, Shirley Murdoch, Marcus Belton and Myron Williams.
The collection opens with a dramatic introduction by Bishop Jakes of his critically acclaimed choir. Throughout the recording he returns to offer snippets of spiritual affirmations. "This particular project is meant to be musical expression of what the Potter's House is al about," Bishop Jakes asserts. "To a person who has watched the Potter's House on TV or read our books, they will hear that message put to music." And the message is simple and positive. It emphasizes the unity, healing and hope found through faith in Christ. The combination of Bishop Jakes' message and the musical repertoire makes for a foot-stomping, hand clapping, deeply moving and inspirational experience.
Bishop Jakes will be in town (minus the Potter House Choir) March 27 and 28 to participate in a two-day spiritual conference coordinated by Evangel Chapel. His sermon begins at 7:30 p.m. both evenings. For details call 301-249-9400.
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