Events

Identity Strong Conference: Event Recap

Published

7 years ago

August 11, 2018

Staff

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ArtSoul Radio recently attended the Identity Strong Conference with one of our partnering ministries: New Life Covenant Church on the South Side of Chicago. It was an amazing weekend full of developing young people and providing them with a space to have fun just before the start of the school year. We love being apart of these type of events where we get to get a closer one on one connection with youth in our city. When people wonder about what Chicago communities are doing to pour into their youth, we can guarantee that they do a lot year round. This conference focused on reminding youth of who they are, their worth, and flooding them with fresh wisdom for living for the new year. Keep reading for my take aways from this event in the recap below:

By Ashley White:

I remember what it was like being a teenager in high school. If I wasn’t concerned about wearing the latest fashions, then I was most likely trying to work up the courage to talk to the guy I had a crush on. Add peer pressure and maintaining good grades to that and I can confidently tell you that high school was not that great of an experience for me.

Sometimes we forget the pressure teenagers face and it’s significantly different from what previous generations went through. The Identity STRONG Conference at New Life Covenant Southeast was a great way to wrap up the summer vacation and gear up for the school year ahead.

The focus for the conference came from Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

The workshop sessions included Strong Together, Strong Education, Strong Mind, Strong Guy and Strong Lady. Art Soul Radio was on the scene and here are key takeaways from the conference…

Strong Together

This workshop facilitated by Minister Shammarie and Imani Brown kicked off with a fun exercise showing the importance of equal effort going into a relationship. That principle not only applies to dating relationships, it’s the same for friendships, colleagues, or any other relationships you’re in. Also, you want a good friend, you have to be a good friend.

Strong Education

Taught by Educator Jacqueline Horbrook, this workshop spoke to the importance of staying focused on your purpose. It’s so easy to get distracted, but you have to be intentional about everything you do before there are consequences to your actions, whether they’re good or bad.

Strong Mind

So many teens are dealing with mental issues including depression, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, etc. and it’s an issue that can’t be swept under the rug. Author Richard Taylor shared his testimony of overcoming depression and addressed the various ways teens can deal with negative thoughts that consume their minds. A lot of us, especially in the African American community, grew up with the mentality, “What happens in this house, stays in this house,” which can no longer be our mantra. There’s nothing wrong with reaching out to someone you trust or seeking professional help.

Strong Lady

Maritza Eru wasted no time tackling the hard issues such as life after a traumatic experience. Oftentimes traumatic situations come with shame and that can lead to destructive behavior. Maritza advised the young women to not stay in a victim mindset after a traumatic situation happens because it will keep you from being victorious. Maritza also encouraged the ladies to know their worth. That’s key because when you know your worth, you know when to leave relationships, friendships or situations that do not serve you.

Strong Guy

Vondale Singleton, Founder of Champs Male Mentoring, had an empowering message for young men in this workshop. At the beginning, the men read a powerful statement declaring, “I am greatness in the making.” Vondale let them know that every life experience enhances their greatness. “You have been called to greatness for the simple fact that God created you.

Yes, you’re going to be challenged but God’s DNA is on the inside of you. You’ve been knocked down but you haven’t been knocked out,” said Vondale.

In addition to these informative and insightful workshops, there were two breakout sessions—Strong Dance by Dedrick Banks and Strong Words by Chachetta Potts.

The conference closed out with spoken word by Matthew Strange and a hilarious yet encouraging keynote message by Joey Quinones, Pastor of New Life Covenant Northside Campus. Kierra Sheard hit the stage performing our favorites and she left the teens with this reassuring message:

“Go for your dreams. It doesn’t matter what someone else has fed you with their opinion or their idea of life, just keep going forward and find God for yourself and you’ll see that a lot of things are different.

Be careful who you have conversations with—remember Eve had the wrong conversation. So be very mindful of who you surround yourself with. Also the word of God says iron sharpens iron so it’s very important that you are particular. They can call you sadiddy, stuck up or whatever. Be selective with who’s in your circle.

Not only that, remember what Jesus did when Peter got out of whack or out of line. We call it vibe now but Jesus did not identify Peter by his name but by the spirit that was using him. So make sure you aware of the vibes around you. Jesus said get thee behind me Satan for you are a stumbling block to me, so have that same authority and audacity as well to correct whatever’s wrong but at the same time be ok with being held accountable.

Fight Depression – Don’t Believe It

To defeat depression, it all comes down to who you surround yourself with, your circle, your village. Remember, God loves us through people. He give you that one on one relationship but God loves us through people. So make sure you have people who will push you back into your destiny, to encourage you and to pour into you. Also be careful too because it might be somebody who might be hating on you and they may be intimidated by where you’re going.

Also, don’t be afraid to talk to someone. Don’t hold it in. You don’t have to be Superman or Superwoman. You can talk to someone and it doesn’t make you weak, it actually makes you stronger. If you’re depressed, get out of the past and live in the moment and if you’re anxious, get out of the future. Let God be there. He got it. And don’t let your past hold you hostage. Be encouraged!”

RESOURCES:

If you need help for depression, anxiety or thought of suicide, we have included a couple resources for you to find help below: www.anthemofhope.com www.twloha.com
Follow ArtSoulRadio social media for more poetry clips, music and encouraging content, event news and other informative content:
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Follow New Life Covenant Church:
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Events

Naomi Raine & Chandler Moore Announce Their Exits from Maverick City Music: The End of an Era and the Beginning of Something New

Published

1 day ago

October 17, 2025

Art Soul

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Some news doesn’t just trend — it moves through timelines like a wave. Earlier today, Naomi Raine and Chandler Moore officially announced their exits from Maverick City Music, sending ripples through a community that has been growing up on their sound. For a generation that found belonging in late-night worship sets, heart-felt anthems, and moments of raw authenticity, this feels like the close of a sacred chapter. But the heartbeat of this story isn’t loss — it’s evolution.

Just a few weeks before the announcement, Naomi quietly released her newest solo project, Jesus Over Everything, on September 14. In retrospect, the album was already speaking of change. On “Lost in Hallelujah,” she sings with a steady reverence that feels both rooted and free — a worship that’s rediscovering itself. The song lives in that delicate space between surrender and rebirth.

“This isn’t really an ending. It’s a new beginning. A new chapter,” she wrote in her post. “I learned so much about God, about people, and about myself. Every song was written from a pure place — just wanting to please God.”

Moments later, Chandler shared his own statement — thoughtful, steady, and full of gratitude.

“These last few years have been locked in on what really matters in my life and my career,” he said. “It’s been scary at times, but full of fresh vision and real excitement about the future. … I’m stepping into the next phase, ready to make music that helps people feel a little more human, a little more understood, and a little less alone.”

Their words landed with the same honesty that defined Maverick City Music from the beginning — a movement that blurred the lines between gospel, CCM, and soul, inviting every color of humanity into the same song.

“From singing together in moments that defined a generation to stepping into brand-new chapters — both Naomi Raine and Chandler Moore remind us that purpose evolves, but the heart of worship remains the same.”

Both artists have been quietly paving their own creative paths. Naomi’s Jesus Over Everything and Chandler’s upcoming solo work suggest that the passion and purpose fans fell in love with aren’t ending — they’re expanding.

“Chandler Moore and Naomi Raine have both been releasing new music for a while now — and if songs like this are any sign, fans can expect the same passion, heart, and excellence we’ve come to love from Maverick City Music.”

What some fans call “the end of an era” may actually be the sound of something larger taking shape. Maverick City Music was always about community — a shared fire that encouraged artists to grow beyond its walls. Now, that fire spreads.

“The dream hasn’t changed,” Moore wrote. “The sound continues.”

For every lyric sung, every worship night recorded, and every heart that found healing through their voices, Naomi Raine and Chandler Moore have already left an indelible mark. Their next chapters don’t close a story — they extend it.

“The sound continues. The heart remains.”

About ArtSoul Radio

ArtSoul Radio is a faith-based media and culture platform spotlighting the intersection of Christian R&B, Gospel, CHH, and creative expression. Through storytelling, sound, and community, we amplify voices shaping the next era of faith-driven culture.

Events

The Stellar Plus Experience Is Back!

Published

3 months ago

July 9, 2025

Art Soul

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The Stellar Plus Experience is the official, multi-day event leading up to the Stellar Gospel Music Awards. It’s a celebration of faith, music, and culture, offering a range of activities beyond the main awards show. This includes masterclasses, fashion showcases, comedy shows, and special events that enhance the overall Stellar Awards experience. This has also become the space for emerging talent show up and be heard. Don’t miss this experience during Stellar weekend! There will be something for everyone!

For more details on all of the available events for this year, visit the Stellar Plus Experience website: www.stellarexperienceplus.com

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

*Subject to change*

THURSDAY, AUGUST 14, 2025

10a – 2p: Stellar Central Hub

2p – 4p: Stellar Masterclass

7p – 8p: Stellar 40 Welcome Mixer

8p – 10:30p: Stellar Unplugged

FRIDAY, AUGUST 15, 2025

8:30a – 10a: Opening Keynote Address

8a – 2p: Stellar Central Hub

11a – 2p: GameChangers Fashion Experience

2p – 4p: Stellar Talks: Fireside Chat + Mixer

9:30p – 12a: Stellar StandUp Comedy Show

SATURDAY, AUGUST 16, 2025

4:30p: 40th Stellar Gospel Music Awards

ArtSoul Spotlight

2025 Stellar Awards Nominees Announced

Published

4 months ago

June 17, 2025

Tamara Young

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Presented by Central City Productions, the 40th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards returns to Nashville’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center on August 16, 2025—honoring the biggest names and brightest newcomers in Gospel music.

Founded by Don Jackson and produced by his team at Central City Productions, the Stellars have long been known as the “Grammys of Gospel.” And for four decades, they’ve remained the premier awards show dedicated to celebrating Black faith-based artistry, excellence, and impact across the globe.

This year’s show is packed with familiar favorites and breakout voices making waves in the culture. From CeCe Winans to Pastor Mike Jr., the nominee list reflects the evolution of Gospel music in real time—bridging tradition, innovation, and divine inspiration.

Check out the full list of nominees below:

Artist of the Year

CeCe Winans – More Than This
Jason Nelson – You Belong: Live in Durham
Kenny Lewis & One Voice – The Healing Project
Pastor Mike Jr. – I Got Away EP
Tamela Mann – Live Breathe Fight

Song of the Year

“Amen” – Pastor Mike Jr.
“Clap My Way” – Micah Lee
“I Prayed For You (said a prayer)” – MAJOR.
“That’s My King” – CeCe Winans
“Yahweh” ft. Melvin Crispell III – Jason Nelson

Male Artist of the Year

Chandler Moore
Deitrick Haddon
Doc McKenzie
Jason Nelson
Pastor Mike Jr.

Female Artist of the Year (Albertina Walker Award)

ADIA
CeCe Winans
Dorinda Clark-Cole
Karen Clark-Sheard
Lisa Page Brooks

Duo/Chorus Group of the Year

Deitrick Haddon ft. Damita & Tasha Page-Lockhart
FK&M (Fred Hammond, Keith Staten, Marcus Cole)
Ted & Sheri
The Group Fire

New Artist of the Year

ADIA
Bobbi Lane
Josh Bracy and Power Anointed
Micah Lee
Montrae Tisdale and The Friends Chorale

Album of the Year

I Got Away EP – Pastor Mike Jr.
Live Breathe Fight – Tamela Mann
More Than This – CeCe Winans
The Healing Project – Kenny Lewis & One Voice
You Belong: Live in Durham – Jason Nelson

Choir of the Year

Bishop S. Y. Younger Presents Worship in Brazil
Chicago Mass Choir – Greater Is Coming
Ricky Dillard – When I Think
The Mississippi Mass Choir – We Still Believe

Producer of the Year

Dana Sorey – You Belong: Live in Durham
FK&M team – Time Capsule – The Trilogy
J. Drew Sheard – Still Karen
Pastor Mike Jr. & DLo – I Got Away EP
Stan Jones & team – We Still Believe

Praise and Worship Album of The Year

Praise and Worship Song of The Year

Leading the Pack:

Pastor Mike Jr. and Jason Nelson are tied with 9 nominations each
CeCe Winans follows closely with 8 nominations
The Mississippi Mass Choir earns 6 nominations

See Full List of All 30 Categories Here:

This list is just a snapshot of the nominees. You can find a list of all 30 Categories here: https://www.thestellarawards.com/2025-nominees.html

Fans can vote June 16 – July 18th, 2025 at www.thestellarawards.com
Fan-voted categories include:

Urban/Inspirational Single or Performance of the Year
Praise & Worship Song of the Year

🔥 ArtSoul Radio + Stellar Awards: A Legacy of Showing Up | Over 10 Years Strong

For over a decade, ArtSoul Radio has been known for showing up for Christian music-not just reporting on award shows like the Stellars and Dove Awards, but for standing in the gaps others overlooked.

Long before CHH and Christian Soul artists were getting red carpet coverage, we were often the only media platform intentionally representing these genres-determined to amplify the sound of a movement that was often being ignored.

We’ll never forget moments like this throwback interview from 2016: when artist Jai (now Jai Vaughn), once spotting our team on the red carpet, paused and said:
“I’m coming to ones who actually play my music.”

That moment still speaks volumes. And it reminds us why we do what we do.

We have watched and captured the evolution of Christian music over the years, and we are excited to see the growth that has come to various award shows, media platforms, radio shows and more – including the evolution of the Stellar Awards as they continue to open their arms to new genres. We have watched the addition of new collaborations as Jai speaks about in the video above along with new features.

We’re here to support that growth, and to honor what the Stellar Awards have been building for decades. From past to present, we remain committed to uplifting the full spectrum of faith-based music and the community connected to it.

“We’re better together. Keep it locked all summer long for updates!”