9/25/2011

Trends in Christian/Gospel Music


In today’s society it is not uncommon to hear a Christian/Gospel artist singing with a hip-hop, R&B, or Country artist.  This effort to blend more with the modern sound is becoming more of the trend and more of an exception.  It doesn’t stop there though.   It has always been said that the word needs to reach everyone in every form possible.  Should it stop with Christian/Gospel artist blending in with the more common genres like rock?  Mar Mary for example not have not only sung with rap artist but now they are partnering with different companies like Pillsbury to advertise a new product that is being introduce to the market.  Is it safe for Mary Mary to associate them selves in such manner?  Will it put a splinter in their career to sing the jingle for the new product?  I would think not.  This is a trend that is catching and resourceful.   This would more than likely increase the number of listeners as well as the number of shoppers who may purchase the product.     “On Monday morning, August 28th at Chicago's Union Station, the duo joined brand ambassador the Pillsbury Doughboy for the thrilling kick-off event, during which morning commuters received a complimentary taste of the new Pillsbury Grands! Biscuit Sandwiches.”

 


They are not the only ones starting something new though.  A crew call H4P is starting a new trend of gospel music in the theatres. “Even though the group is very young, it has taken up a social responsibility to save lives through the distribution of mosquito treated nets throughout the country.”  H4P follows in the same idea that Tyler Perry has created.  One of the differences is that H4P was created to encourage, inspire, and motivate Ghanaians.  There artistic abilities have caught on to the general public and now they are able to work nationally, spreading their message through voice and theater. 





The music industry has always had a trend of artist that is able to adventure out of the form of music.  The trend that is different over all for Christian/Gospel artist is the multitude of recognition they seem to receiving more of.  This does not come in only one form.  The recognition is in music, theater and now food.  Who knows what will be added to the Christian/Gospel trends.  I will definitely be keeping my eyes open.



9/12/2011

Investment for you and the community

When looking for funding one should be aware of he amount as well as the purpose for the financing.  It is also useful to be aware of the different types of funding that may be available and in what form you are seeking the funding.  It is not required to seek funding just from a bank or form individuals who are looking to invest.  Depending on ones needs one may also look to community financial institutions.

Coalition of Community Development Financial Institutions is one of many examples.  This institution not only offers funding towards small business owners, they seek to do so in lower income communities. Financial opportunities vary from financing a small business to providing capitol to rebuild communities.  There financing is focused towards fair financial options for underserved people and communities.  This would be useful for those who are currently considered to be in the lower income status and are seeking to start or continue a small business.  Microenterprise Development Loan Fund is one form of funding in which they seek to encourage social and business development.  After 11 years of service, they have continued to grow not only in the funding but in memberships as well.  This allows the company to continue to be a positive resource for those who are seeking funding for a small business.

If one is looking for something that may be more a specific support, there are also options of financing.   Oweesta is another financing opportunity that looks to provide financing and assistance to Native communities. Like Microenterprise, Oweesta has a variety of funding for the Native community, fostering their growth and the rebuilding.   Their Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Development is created to assist with the change in the economic movement allowing private businesses, and homeownership to prosper.   This allows entrepreneurs to receive funding it also creates more opportunities of employment for the community. 

Both financial institutions are geared towards the betterment of the community. They offer opportunity for the small business entrepreneurs, support for education and support for creating new or more employment opportunities.  If one is seeking a financial supporter that is looking to invest in your community as well as your business the two mention companies would be good options to look at if you qualify for them.