VISION/VOICE/VARION---Stellar Awards with Mary, Mary

(Nashville, TN.)--They were born to sing, but what's the one thing that stopped the Grammy Award winning group Mary, Mary in their tracks? Host the 2013 Stellar Awards LIVE! Minutes after leaving the stage the ladies were talking and only to VISION/VOICE/VARION! Photo/Video Credit: Elpwe Ray of "E-Photo"

BACKSTAGE WITH ALEXIS SPIGHT

ALEXIS SPIGHT---"BREAKING THE MOLD!"

Alexis Spight and Varion Walton-The 28th Annual Stellar Awards- Photo: "E" Elpwe Ray

(NASHVILLE, TN.)---Her sound, her music and her style are nothing like your grandmother's "Rock of Ages!"  The first thing you notice about Alexis Spight is her spirit.  Of course you're going to notice her "trademark red Mohawk" that's a given, but I've discovered there is something more authentic about this young lady than the color of her hair.

Over the years I've interviewed many recording artists: secular, gospel and contemporary Christian alike.  I found it absolutely refreshing to meet a young woman, barely out of high school who is determined to stay strong in her faith.  She is clearly bringing her strong Christian values to her new found celebrity status.  Throughout the weekend, I can't tell you how many times I heard Alexis Spight say "please and thank you." This is one teenager who gets it; good manners and being polite will take you a long way in this industry.

Though relatively new to the game, 19 year old Spight has become something of an "old pro" when it comes to "red carpet" arrivals and the glare of the cameras. We met recently at The 28th Annual Stellar Awards in Nashville and instantly Alexis' "personality," not her crimson-colored hair drew me into her aura.

Last year the Buffalo, New York native became insanely popular on BET's "Sunday Best," though she didn't win the covenant title.  Just the same, the "runner-up" walked into The Stellar Awards a real winner. Alexis Spight is staying true to her "Pentecostal" roots and she knows 'it takes more than just hitting the right notes to make it in the music business.'
  

I caught up with her backstage minutes after she participated in an impromptu tribute to Andrae' Crouch during ASCAP'S 4th Annual "Morning Glory Breakfast." Alexis stood stage left, surrounded by other   Gospel icons like Andrae' Crouch, The Williams Brothers and Maurette Clark-Brown.

Spight was the literally "the new kid on the block," but she didn't appear to be intimidated in the least.  In fact she was very humbled and respectful to those who paved the way for her. "My family will  never let me forget I am standing on some giant shoulders, said Spight.

Her much-anticipated debut CD, "L.O.L (LIVING OUT LOUD)" features the new single "STEADY!"  Fans can also look for Alexis' amazing rendition of Kirk Franklin's "Imagine Me."

So here's to the bold, "out of the box" thinking, non-traditional newcomer who is turning Gospel on it's ear. Alexis, your strong faith and humble spirit will always be "the perfect melody" to ensure you'll transcend Gospel for many generations to come.

             
                        (ASCAP's "Morning Glory Breakfast" honoring The Legendary Andrae Crouch)

                                 On Stage: Alexis Spight, Maurette Clark-Brown, The Williams Brothers and More

FOLLOW ALEXIS ON TWITTER:

ORDER HER NEW CD: "L.O.L"

https://twitter.com/lyrically_lexi

RISING STAR: JONATHAN WINSTEAD

VISION/VOICE/VARION EXCLUSIVE

(NASHVILLE, TN.)-- He hails from "The Music City" and his soulful roots run deep and wide.  From his early training in gospel, to his work with rock and pop; Jonathan Winstead has expanded his eclectic repertoire to include fresh, contemporary takes on the age-old themes of love, hurt, passion and happiness.  Jonathan Winstead moves to his own groove, creating his own style of Classic R&B.  Remember the name Jonathan Winstead, a fresh balladeer turning heads in the Mid-South and the UK.  Don't miss this VISION/VOICE/VARION--all new this week on www.varionwalton.com.

Varion Walton and Jonathan Winstead--Photo: "E Photo" aka Elpwe Ray

STELLAR MOMENT: ANDRAE CROUCH HONORED

(NASHVILLE, TN)-- Every now and then you get to witness something so awesome it gives you "goosebumps."  During the weekend of The 28th Annual Stellar Awards in Nashville I got an opportunity to witness such an event.   

ASCAP's Rhythm and Soul recognized The 2013 Stellar Awards nominees during their 3rd Annual "Morning Glory" Breakfast Reception.

Check out this video as some of gospel's greats pay homage to "the greatest!" In addition to recognizing The 2013 Stellar Awards Nominees,  ASCAP's Rhythm and Soul honored Andrae' Crouch for his outstanding contribution to gospel music.  

The Legendary Williams Brothers, Maurette Brown-Clark, Jason Nelson and newcomer Alexis Spight honored the legendary singer and songwriter with an impromptu musical tribute.  Andrae Crouch can be seen sitting in a chair to the right of the screen.