VETERAN BROADCASTER IRENE JOHNSON WARE DIES

REMEMBERING RADIO PIONEER, IRENE J. WARE

(Mobile, AL)--She was the original "total package!" Irene Johnson-Ware was a loving, witty, razor sharp, generous philanthropist who died empty.

When she wasn't setting fashion trends, Mrs. Ware was breaking the "glass ceiling," by becoming the General Manager of WGOK-AM in Mobile, Alabama in 1961.

Photo: Estate of Irene Johnson-Ware

Together, she and her beloved husband, Ronnie Ware changed gospel music scene in The Southeast and beyond. Both recognized by ASCAP, BMI, CBS Records and The Stellar Awards for their work in the industry.

On a personal note, I shall never forget how her infectious spirit opened doors for young, impressionable girls. With her trademark smile and audacity of hope for a better way of life, Mrs. Ware urged city leaders in the aftermath of the civil rights era to provide quality housing for underprivileged children and their families in The Port City.

I will truly miss our quiet times together, especially the moments celebrating Valentine's Day, holidays and birthdays.

Photo Credit: Varion Walton-VisionVoiceVarion

I always loved hearing her stories about all of the Gospel Greats like Aretha Franklin, The Clarke Sisters and many others. 

She will forever be remembered as an influential, Mobile resident "quintessential lady." In her death, she leaves behind a generation of other "fiercely feminine," up and coming media moguls who will always look to her life as a template for success.

After many weeks of declining health that was non-covid related, God Almighty finally called her home to be at rest. Irene Johnson-Ware, a faithful servant who leaves behind a lasting legacy. 

In closing, I thank God for our time together. The moments and memories will forever be implanted in my bereaved heart.    

Photo Credit: Varion Walton-VisionVoiceVarion 

I found an impromptu interview from her home, in 2016 when the City of Mobile came together to honor her life and work. 

Please take a to share in the moment I was so blessed to have with this rare and special woman. Rest in paradise, Mrs. Ware. Your "BRIGHTER DAYS" are now eternal! 

For More Information on the legacy of Mrs. Irene Johnson Ware, visit ALL ACCESS MAGAZINE:  https://www.allaccess.com/net-news/archive/story/195826/veteran-broadcaster-irene-johnson-ware-has-died?fbclid=IwAR2v-is7xni7kExtFzL-F4n68zzUgZ9dGH02bpfUiZKI6zzva-uiXUJEuLE

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ASCAP MORNING GLORY RECEPTION

6^TH ANNUAL BREAKFAST RECEPTION HONORS 2015 STELLAR AWARDS NOMINEES  IN LAS VEGAS

PASTOR SMOKIE NORFUL AND THE WILLIAMS BROTHERS RECEIVED ASCAP SONGWRITER AWARDS  

Grammy Award Winner Michelle Williams hosted The 6th Annual ASCAP Morning Glory     

Photo Credit: George Bekich, Picture Group

(LAS VEGAS, NV— March 30, 2015) The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) honored some of gospel music’s most prestigious names at the 6th annual ASCAP Morning Glory Breakfast reception in Las Vegas, NV at The Orleans Hotel & Casino on March 28.  The breakfast, which was one of the premiere events leading up to the 30^th annual Stellar Awards, honored revered Pastor Smokie Norful with the ASCAP “Spirit of Song” Award, legendary quartet The Williams Brothers with the ASCAP “Gospel Icon” Award, and recognized a multitude of other 2015 Stellar Awards honorees.  Hosted by GRAMMY-Award winner Michelle Williams, the breakfast also featured special performances by powerhouse gospel recording artist Dorinda Clark-Cole and acclaimed male vocalist, William McDowell.

“We’re very excited to honor so many gospel greats and 2015 Stellar Award nominees at our annual Morning Glory Breakfast,” stated Nicole George-Middleton, ASCAP VP, Rhythm & Soul/Urban, who regretfully couldn't be in attendance, but left the event in the great hands of ASCAP Associate Directors Jennifer Goicoechea, Moya Nkruma, Joncier Rienecker and Director Jonathan Jones.

ASCAP’s honorees were also nominated for Stellar Awards: Pastor Smokie Norful for Artist of the Year, Contemporary CD of the Year – “Forever Yours,” Contemporary Male Vocalist of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year; and The Williams Brothers for Group/Duo of the Year, Quartet of the Year, Traditional Group/Duo of the Year.  Morning Glory Breakfast performer William McDowell was nominated for Praise and Worship CD of the Year – “Withholding Nothing,” Traditional CD of the Year – “Withholding Nothing,” and Traditional Male Vocalist of the Year.   

             

ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Director of Creative Services Jonathan Jones presents Pastor Smokie Norful with the ASCAP “Spirit of Song" Award.     Photo credit: George Bekich, PictureGroup

Also in attendance were other ASCAP Stellar Award nominees including Larry D. Trotter (Traditional Choir of the Year), Charles Butler (Contemporary Choir of the Year), Darnell Davis (Contemporary Choir of the Year), Harmony Samuels (Song of the Year – “Say Yes”), Rick Robinson (Producer of the Year), STL3 (Youth Project of the Year – “All Things New”), Tasha Page-Lockhart(Albertina Walker Female Vocalist of the Year, Contemporary Female Vocalist of the Year, New Artist of the Year), Warryn Campbell (Producer of the Year, Song of the Year – “Help”), Will Bogle (Producer of the Year), along with recording artists Kirk Franklin, Shawn Stockman and The Walls Group, songwriter Gerald Haddon and motivational speaker/preacher DeVon Franklin.   

For more information on the ASCAP Morning Glory Breakfast reception, please visit  www.ascap.com.

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

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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.