Contemporary Gospel Recording Artist Wins First Music Award!!!

Contemporary gospel recording artist Sounds of Imani was nominated for a Prayze Factor award in October 2013.  The Prayze Factor is an awards platform based in Atlanta, GA that recognizes the work of contemporary gospel recording artists locally, nationally and across the globe.  Pastor Gerald Ervin commented, “When I first found out that we were nominated, I couldn’t believe it.  I wondered who nominated us?  Praise God for them —  whoever they are.”

Following the initial nomination, a couple of voting rounds had to be completed; and Sounds of Imani did just that with the support of family, Facebook friends and a host of international supporters.  Lady Carol stated, “I never knew we had so many supporters that loved our music.  I was totally surprised”.  In 2014, Sounds of Imani won first place in two music categories:  Praise & Worship Duo/Group and Urban Contemporary Gospel Duo/Group with approximately 290,000 votes in each respective category.

The last round was the Grand Finals.  There was a lot of work to be done to secure votes during this round.   Sounds of Imani kept pushing and never gave up; and their fans continued to show support.  Although the duo didn’t win the Grand Finals, they made fifth place with the next highest score to the MVP Finalist earning the Spotlight Grand Finalist position.   Winners of the Grand Finals are as follows:  Grand Champion, gospel rapper CAPA; First place,  Choir Boy Cam; Second place Jake Hughes, MVP Demetrice Everett, drummer; and yes fifth place — yours truly — Sounds of Imani!

Excitement filled the air as all Grand Finalists participated in the Prayze Factor Red Carpet Awards ceremony.   Performances by gospel recording artists such as Donald Malloy, from the New Jersey Mass Choir, and Stephen Steward were truly anointed.  In addition, a training class taught by Carlos & Liz Merriweather on the music business were  both informative and enlightening.

On Saturday April 25, 2014, Sounds of Imani accepted two Prayze Factor Awards at the Prayze Factor Awards Red Carpet Event.  A host of Grand Finalists participated in a collaboration song that was the highlight of the evening.  Sounds of Imani is truly grateful for such a wonderful awards platform which has helped to build up the fan base of many contemporary gospel recording artists.   The event hosted by Pastor Theresa Jordan, and Christopher Williams proved to be a wonderful success giving independent artists the opportunity to participate in more gospel music events.  The 2014 Prayze Factor Tour has been scheduled making numerous tour stops across the nation and abroad.

Sounds of Imani had the opportunity to meet other national artists and develop new friendships.  In addition, the Grand Champion CAPA has asked Sounds of Imani to collaborate on a song with him.  This is just one of many examples of how people can work together and accomplish great things.

The gospel duo, Pastors Gerald & Carol have also received  good news that will launch their music ministry forward during such a time as this.  Not only are they wonderful music artists and worshipers, they are also pastors of Acclaim Ministries International affiliated with the World Harvest Ministerial Alliance, Pastor Rod Parsley.  Sounds of Imani has a heart for the community and continue to host various community events through their nonprofit outreach ministry.

Sounds of Imani has two new new singles which have been released on March 25, 2014, on their indie label, Heaven-Wings Records. “Must Be An Angel” and “It’s Alright” were written by Gerald & Carol Ervin, and co-writer/producer Daron Steward.  Two new music videos also accompany the two singles produced by Heaven-Wings Records.  All music is available in various digital Internet music stores.   Sounds of Imani is available for marriage retreats, weddings, conferences, seminars, concerts and more!   To book this artist for your next event email at cjay@soi-music.net.