The Gospel House Cafe is back...

Please come and join me tonight at the Gospel House Cafe. We'll be there every 4th Saturday. I'll be ministering my new single, "One More Chance." Come out and be blessed as we enjoy a night of singing, dancing, and praise. I look forward to seeing YOU there...

DJ D-Real, DJ Of The Way and DJ Will Gee of WFDU's Gospel housing Authority will be mixing live! Be on the look out for guest DJ spots and surprise guests! The tickets are $15.00 and includes a free buffet prepared by Divinely Delicious Catering. See below for location and ticket information.

We will be at Visions Academy Charter High School (behind St. James AME Church)
88-108 Shipman Street
Newark, NJ

For tickets call (908) 397-3055(DJ D-Real)
(201) 207-1262 (DJ OfTheWay)
(908) 456-2582 (DJ Will Gee)
(973) 332-4125 (Troy from AfraKuts)
Email djdreal1@aol.com or djoftheway@yahoo.com
$20.00 at the door
Facebook RSVP pays ticket price $18.00 at the Door!

Spread the word about the GHC!! Thanks for your support!!

My beloved mother...

I was still shaking my head at the death of Whitney Houston when my beloved mother, Joan Durr Hill, quietly slipped away during the night. We had two services to celebrate her wonderful life, which is a clear reflection of what she meant to us. One was in Newark, New Jersey and then we took her home to Edwin, Alabama. I was surprised to find that I am doing “okay,” because I loved her so much. I think its because I am able to find comfort in knowing that she is at peace, and with God.

When we speak hypothetically about losing a parent it is always a moment explained by despair, and extreme sadness. I don’t feel the despair that I thought that I would. This doesn’t mean that I don’t miss my mother. I loved my mother immensely, and I know that she is smiling down on me, acknowledging the love that we shared as mother, and son.

I gave my mother all of her flowers while she was living, and have no regrets. I loved and respected her everyday. I realize how blessed I am to have had the special relationship that I had with her, and am truly grateful for the length of time that God loaned her to us. The love that I had for her will never be duplicated, and I find peace knowing that she had no doubts about my love, and that I have none about hers.

My reminder to everyone is to pause, and take time out to give flowers to those that you care about, and continuously water them with love, respect, and kindness. This tosses confusion, doubt, and worry out of the window, leaving honesty, love, and gratitude in its place. I am the person that I am partly because of my mother who gave me her all, and expected nothing in return, except my love.

I would like to thank everyone for your kind words. Know that I am doing well, because I know my mother is being taken care of. I don’t have to worry because she was a child of God, and lived like she was. I will miss my mother daily, and might even talk out loud to her from time to time. There is no love like the love a mother has for her son, except for the love a son has for his mother…

I love you Joan Durr Hill. Thank you for your lessons, and your never wavering love.

Praise Is What I Do...

Praise is what I do because I owe that to God. He has done so much for me. He has kept me even when I thought I didn’t deserve to be kept. He has brought me out of dark places, and His grace is the reason I stand as tall as I do today.

Every day that I have breath I will praise His name. The circumstance doesn’t matter. The outcome doesn’t matter. I will always lift my hand unto thee offering the highest praise.

Our God is greater than any other and I will remind Him daily of His value to me. My walk is one based on faith, and He never fails… I don't know what's around the corner but I know He does. That's why I'm holding on!!

Be grateful!!

When you realize your purpose it is required that you embrace it through your efforts. I have done that and continue to do so daily. God has been so good and I love Him with every bit of my heart. He is the head of my life. I do nothing without Him. My decisions come out of prayer. I believe in His word. I continue to worship and pray. The Lord makes a way even when I can't see one. I will never give up on my desires and I hope you do the same. I am committed to holding on to His promises...

I've been ministering at a number of funerals recently. It has allowed me to look out over my life. My praise continues to increase as I realize how blessed I am. I see how God's grace has protected me and brought me out of some dark places. God has shown me His heart. And I am full...

I wanted you to know that I have more songs available on iTunes. I ministered "On Time God," "Sweetest Name," and "Blue Rain." The sound may be a little different but I am offering up the same praise. It's on the Gospel Workout-Dancing in the Spirit CD. God has been so good and this is a reflection of His grace. Thank you for your continued support. We are working on some great things. I am looking forward to sharing them with you when each project comes to completion. Diligence and dedication will bring it all to fruition. 2012 is the year!! Be steadfast.

Are you ready for 2012?

Yesterday I went to Warwick, New York for a studio session with Martin Dominguez Ball. We were working on completing my Acoustically Anointed album. While we were working on the project new ideas quickly emerged taking us in an entirely different direction. When you surround yourself with likeminded people ideas come from every angle. God placed Martin and I together so that we could bring you the very best. We are working to do just that.

I hope that everyone has remained focused on their goals and plans for 2012. We are each given a life that some say is just “a dress rehearsal.” It isn’t. The lives we were each given are precious and very real. God provides opportunities for us to rise or fall. We have to make decisions that are best for us. I make the decision to rise out of every dark moment in my life a better person. It is very easy to give up and walk away. Standing tall is much harder, but it’s important to our growth. It’s imperative that we rise above in order to have a peaceful life.

Don’t be dismayed when the road is dark. In even your darkest hour you can grow. You are able to rise out of every storm stronger than when you went in. How do I know this? I know this because I know you. I know that each and everyone of you are winners. Look in the mirror everyday and remind yourself that you believe in you. When you do, growth occurs and you make room for the blessings that are on the way. People are facing hard times but I know they will get through. Our faith and belief in ourselves guides us along our most difficult steps. Out of every storm comes a rainbow. Make sure you’re ready for yours…
Make 2012 your best year! Believe in your ability to be whatever it is that you desire. God sees your efforts and diligence, and His favor will reign upon you. Get ready for your blessings…

(The above photo was from our last session in 2011 but I wanted to share it again!)

Starting the year off strong... HOLD ON!

We are blessed to see another year roll in and I know I am truly grateful. I must confess that 2012 has started off strong for me. God is smiling on me and I am accepting of His grace. The year started off with God allowing me to increase my territory. I ministered live at 90.3 FM radio in New York City. I am grateful for the opportunity to minister live and be interviewed at an incredible radio station. I am thankful to everyone involved who created this amazing opportunity for my music ministry. It was a great New Year’s Day event. I see this opportunity as an indication of what's to come.

I am looking forward to the many things I have lined up for my ministry. I am working on completing my CD, Acoustically Anointed. I am accompanied on the CD by the amazing musical talents of Martin Dominguez Ball. Within the next few weeks I will be releasing my second single from that album, “I Surrender All.” The album will be released on the Soulful Soundz Music Group, LLC record label. "Tis so Sweet," is currently available on iTunes.

On December 16, 2011, I released a Gospel House EP on Ace Beat Records, which is available on www.traxsource.com. Songs on the EP include, “On Time God,” “Sweetest Name,” and “Blue Rain.” I hope the EP will bless you as was intended.

This year I look forward to what God has in store for me. He never fails. He is working in my life and I am in awe of His amazing power and grace. I hope you’re ready for what God has in store for you! As for me, I am holding on tight and ready for this great ride. I will keep you posted on upcoming events and continue to encourage you, as I encourage myself through my music ministry.

Thank you in advance for continuing to support me in all phases of my ministry. Are you ready for 2012? If you aren’t, there is still time to get ready… HOLD ON!!

Join me in Brooklyn... TONIGHT!!

I hope everyone’s holiday season is blessed. This is a wonderful time of year when God gets all of the praise. I praise Him daily but this is a time when we are focused on gratefulness, kindness and grace. It’s the time of year when we are supposed to spread His word through kindness and love. Make sure you look out for your neighbor. If they need a hand, offer it to them, and many more will be offered back to you. Times are difficult for a lot of people and although your extra might not be a whole lot, someone else may have less than you do. Giving your “little bit” may extend beyond their needs. Lets all try to be a blessing in the life of at least one person or family this holiday season. Our kindness doesn’t have to be monetary. If you see any need step in and offer even a smile or an ear to listen. Be mindful of the needs of others this holiday season. Especially since at one time or another we all need a kind word or hand.

It’s been a busy 2011. I make sure I pause to say thank you, and acknowledge God for everything He has done in my life. From the big things down to the smallest, I thank God for every aspect of my life. God is blessing me from every direction. I have been busy making efforts to expand my music ministry. I am working on various projects and am focused on using my vocal ability to reach saints and future saints. I am getting ready to release my single, “I Surrender All,” on the Soulful Soundz Music Group, LLC record label. In early 2012, I will be releasing my traditional album, “Acoustically Anointed.” Currently my single, “Tis so Sweet, “ is available on iTunes and at other digital distributors. I thank you in advance for your support.




Tonight I will be ministering Gospel House in Brooklyn at the Night of Gospel Lighthouse. Meet me at 207 Lewis Avenue for a wonderful night. Admission is $10.00 and it takes place from 9p.m.-1a.m. Come out and celebrate the holiday season with us. There will be DJ’s spinning records until 1 a.m. It is definitely going to be a good time. If you can’t make it please lift us up in prayer.

Minister Steve | Tis So Sweet... (To Trust In Jesus) | CD Baby

Minister Steve | Tis So Sweet... (To Trust In Jesus) | CD Baby

I'm still working on the completion of my Acoustically Anointed album but wanted to offer my single half off on CD Baby. The link is above. I will be releasing "I Surrender All" in a few weeks and enjoy sharing my ministry with everyone. We just celebrated Thanksgiving which was truly a blessing. I hope everyone enjoyed their holiday feast with family and friends. I have so many things to be thankful for in 2011 that I couldn't possibly list them here. However, I can say how thankful I am to be able to bless you with my music ministry. I am forever grateful for your continuous support. I pray that everyone, including myself, has a wonderfully blessed holiday season. It's not about the gifts it is about Jesus! Happy Holidays everyone!!

South Orange 9/11 Remembrance Program

Ten years ago I stood in the window at my office building in Newark looking into New York City. As the planes hit the towers my heart became full. Like everyone else I couldn't wrap my head or heart around the magnitude of what I was seeing. Years have gone by but I remember the exact moment our innocence was challenged and our lives would change forever. I will never forget that day.

Many lives were lost and many others were affected directly by this traumatic event. Tomorrow night at 7 pm., at the South Orange Performing Arts Center, I will be ministering at the 9/11 Commemoration lifting my voice in honor of the lives lost and touched on this day ten years ago. Ordinary people were brought together to experience an extraordinary time in our history. Heroes emerged and we came together as one making us stronger as each year passes.

I hope you'll be able to come to the candlelight vigil, which starts at 6:15 pm. and will be followed by guest speakers, clergy and music. If not, take a little time out to remember the heroes who lost their lives on that day. I will never forget them.

The Gospel House Cafe...

This past Saturday I ministered at the Gospel House Cafe. It was a great time! I'm looking forward to the next one. I ministered with Kenny Bobien and August. It was an experience that I am glad I shared with my supporters and friends. I will keep you posted as the next event draws closer.

I'm in the process of working on a few songs that I will be releasing soon. I am looking forward to sharing my creative ideas with you. My management team and I are working on a few other things as we remain focused on moving my ministry to the next level.

Next month I'm traveling to Warwick, NY to minister on Saturday, March 19th. I am looking forward to ministering at one the programs supporting the Union A.M.E. Women's Conference. I always enjoy going to a new venue especially when I know it's going to be the same praise.

Thanks for your continued support and hopefully I'll see you next month at the Gospel House Cafe.



- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Great things to come...

This past weekend I ministered at the Gospel House Cafe. There was a great vibe and the spirit of the Lord definitely showed up at the IRBY Dance Theater. If you missed it, you can come check us out in February. I will give you the specific date once its given to me. I hope to see you there. I ministered with Stephanie Cooke and Shannon Renee. It was a great time so I hope you make the next event.

I am working on a few projects that I will share with you soon. I have been praying for direction and the Lord is directing me. He has put a few things on my heart and I will share them with you soon. I prayed for direction and as always He replied. There is nothing like the Lord when you need an answer. Friends are good. Family is better. The Lord, He's the greatest. Sometimes your answer doesn't appear when you want it to but it always does. I am doing what I have to do to take my music ministry to the next level.

Thank everyone for their support. God is doing great things in my life. I will keep you posted on my endeavors as always. I love the support from those in the United States as well as abroad. It makes me work harder to do what God has called me to do... blessings!!

Gospel House Cafe is Christmas weekend!

A week ago I was the featured artist at the Gospel House Cafe in South Orange, New Jersey at the IRBY Dance Center. It was a night when everyone in the room was on their feet dancing for the Lord. A friend of mine who has some physical disabilities related to MS was dancing which confirmed that God was in the room. It was an amazing sight to see! I mentioned in my previous blog that it was an extension of Thanksgiving praise and thats exactly what kind of night it was.

This month we will be in South Orange again but Stephanie Cooke will be there as well. The event occurs on Sunday, December 26, 2010, due to Christmas being on Saturday. For future months please note that it will be every fourth Saturday! There will be DJs spinning records that won't allow you to praise quietly sitting down. The beat and the message will have you on your feet! Come out and support the last Gospel House Cafe for 2010... Tickets are on sale NOW!!

Tickets are $15.00 which includes a buffet prepared by Divine Delicious Catering!
Call 908 397 3055(DJ D-Real)
201 207 1262 (DJ OfTheWay)
973 332 4125 (Troy from AfraKuts).
Email djdreal1@aol.com or djoftheway@yahoo.com
$20.00 at the door
Facebook RSVP pay ticket price $18.00 at the Door!

THANKS for your continued support!

Let God have His way....

Yesterday I spent ten hours in the studio doing what I love. There is nothing like creating a new melody and recreating an old one. I completed my demo yesterday and am going to sit still watching God work.

I worked with Martin Dominguez Ball who is an amazingly talented musician who resides in upstate New York. Martin has his own band, leads the music ministry at his church, is a student, husband and father in no specific order. With all those titles on his plate, he managed to add me to the plate because he, too, was doing what he loved. I just met him yesterday but feel like I've known him a lifetime. I was able to see a reflection of his life through his heart knowing God placed me in good company. I thank God for him as he continues to expand my territory and look forward to working with Martin again on other projects. Stop by www.larrama.com and check him out for yourself.

Completing this demo has been a process but God saw fit to bring it to completion. Now my manager has the pleasure of sharing this project with others. I look forward to the possibilities but remember, I sing because its what I want to do. I don't put a dollar sign on my songs. I don't sing for the monetary value but the value it places on my life and in the lives of others. I minister from the heart to your heart. My dream is to reach as many followers as possible and if this is the way God wants me to do it, I shall.

Its time again for the Gospel House Cafe. The venue has changed but the praise shall remain. The event is taking place at the IRBY Dance Theater at 128 Irvington Avenue in South Orange, New Jersey. It will be from 6-10 p.m. I know its Thanksgiving weekend but its a way to continue giving thanks through praise! Thanks for the continued support and see you there...

Oh what a time we had in Sherrill, Arkansas...

This past Sunday, we pulled up to this little country church in Sherrill, Arkansas which sat adjacent to a small cemetery and across from a cotton field. Being from Newark, New Jersey I was a little out of my element environmentally at St. Luke's Missionary Baptist Church but never outside of my comfort zone. I knew that God showed up despite the location. This was just a new step on this journey God had for me that ran down a private road in a small church where I am sure my ancestors once praised.

We drove up to the little brick church and were one of only a few cars parked outside. Everything about this church was different than the churches back home in New Jersey and New York but I felt His presence as soon as my feet touched the ground. It has never mattered to me how many people I minister to, where I had to go to get them or how large the venue. So the size of the church and the number of people in the pews were never a concern of mine. I felt at home here as I took in the setting of the church and its members.

Immediately upon exiting the car we were greeted by Pastor Gregory Little, his wife Andrea Roaf-Little and their two children. We were ushered into the church to prepare for me to share my music ministry. As always I asked the Lord to guide my spirit and opened my heart to whatever was laid upon it. I stood in that little country church and embraced the love from its pastor and the church family and began ministering via song.

This was my first trip to Arkansas and initially I wasn't sure what to expect. In New Jersey and New York we praise a little differently but ultimately the praise is the same. I worshipped with a small church off on the side of the road where the members are few. But the praise was a triumphant praise. I worshipped with "folks" who didn't care about the size of the congregation, church or location. All they wanted to do was praise the Lord and that's exactly what they did.

One of the church deacons said, "We've been asking God for something like this for a long time. God brings things exactly when we need Him to." And off to my left I heard the mother of the church lead the congregation in devotion. The pastor, his wife and the deacon thanked God aloud that I came to share my music ministry not realizing how thankful I was. I was and remain grateful that God allowed me to worship with Pastor Little and look forward to returning to Arkansas to minister there again. My heart is so full because I, too, had been asking God for a moment like this. As always, He opened another door for me expanding my territory.

Pastor Little stated in his sermon that, "Every door that God opens is not for you." I am so glad I entered this door and am ready to embrace the additional doors it will open. God is so good!

Minister Steve

This is my single, "Lift Up Hands," which is available on iTunes for purchase. This snippet is from my live performance at The Gospel House Cafe in Paterson, New Jersey on October 23, 2010. I'm dancing for the Lord every chance I get. He has done so many marvelous things! Enjoy!

Upcoming events...

DJ D-Real and DJ Of The Way of WFDU's Gospel housing Authority presents the Gospel House Cafe on October 23, 2010 from 6 p.m.-10 p.m. This night of praise is at the Paterson Museum at 2 Market Street in Paterson, New Jersey. I will be opening up for the songstress Susu Bobien.

It would behoove you to allow Susu Bobien and I to edify your mind, body and spirit, with the powerful sounds of Gospel house music. I will be ministering my single, "Lift up Hands," which is available on iTunes. I invite you to come bear witness to triumphant praise... see you there!

In November, I will be traveling to St. Luke's Missionary Baptist Church in Sherrill, Arkansas. Reverend Gregory Little is the pastor who has welcomed me into his church for praise and worship. God is opening doors I can't even see and I am walking through those doors embracing every opportunity to minister. I will be ministering on November 7, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. The trip to Paterson is closer so I hope you will come out and support my vision. The ticket information is below.


Tickets for the Gospel House Cafe... Call (908)397-3055(DJ D-Real), (201)207-1262 (DJ OfTheWay) and (973)332-4125(Troy from AfraKuts). You can also email djdreal1@aol.com or djoftheway@yahoo.com Tickets are $15.00 which includes a free buffet!
Facebook RSVP pay ticket price $18.00 at the door; $20.00 at the door.

Take Jesus at His Word...

I don't know if you know what I know about Jesus but I assume that you do. If not, I'll let you know a little bit about my experience with Him. I praise Him when the warmth of the sun runs over my eyes in the morning and washes through my spirit during the noonday. By evening, I've praised Him many times for the things He has done and for things He's going to do.

I started on this journey to minister to the spirit of saints and seekers professionally a few years ago. Things have not always gone like I've wanted them to but that only increased my desire to work harder staying on course. During this entire time my praise has never wavered. It has increased becoming more steady as each day passed. God has directed every step and is placing me on the correct path to get where I'd like to go.

On this wondrous journey God has blessed me with many opportunities to praise His name. I recently had an opportunity to minister at a birthday celebration for Rev. Dr. Milton R. Biggham. I was both grateful and honored to be a part of this celebration. In preparation for my CD release I have been in the studio remaining focused and steadfast. With each note my heart swells with love as I praise His name. In November I will be traveling to minister in both Pine Bluff and Little Rock, Arkansas. My single, "Lift up Hands," was made available on iTunes and Amazon today. Ain't He alright?

I take Jesus at His word and am a witness that He will do what He promised. I spoke to Jesus expressing my heart's desires, goals and dreams. With each passing moment He's bringing me closer to where I want to be. My one desire is to minister to those that are standing tall with conviction or those lost in the valley searching for an answer. Jesus is in the process of bringing all of that to fruition. I took Him at His word. I gave Him my heart and I can't even put into words what He has given back to me. However, if you look closely you will catch a glimpse of it in my praise.

Take Him at His word because the best is yet to come...

Hour of Praise at St. James AME in Newark, NJ

I will be ministering at the Hour of Praise service at St. James AME Church in Newark, New Jersey today, August 18, 2010 at noon. I am looking forward to this service as it gives me another opportunity to praise His name. If you are unable to attend, I invite you to view the service online at http://stjamesame.org.

No one said that we are to worship the Lord on Sunday mornings only. We are free to praise His name as we choose. I praise the Lord at all times and in any setting. I am not ashamed to praise His name. I praise Him on the highest mountain, in the lowest valley or in the midst of my triumph. I live to praise His name.

As the song says, "Praise is what I do." I implore you to tune in at noon live via the internet or come to 588 Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard in Newark, NJ as we bless His name. You will be moved as the spirit of the Lord enters in. Remember that your season comes through praise... see you there!

What a joyous night!

As you all know, I ministered at the 5th Annual Lincoln Park Music Festival in Newark, New Jersey last night. I had a "new" look, style and sound. I usually minister traditional songs at this event but last night, I stepped out on faith and tried something different. No matter what the sound--rap, house, traditional or contemporary--praise is praise! I ministered a new single, "Thank you" and "Blue Rain."

I always ask God to bless me when I minister in His name so I knew that He would. His favor is one thing that I know is consistent. However, as I graced the stage, I informed the large crowd, my hometown crowd, of the fact that I was coming at them from a different direction. I asked them to listen to my new single giving me their honest opinion of the song and this "new" style. The crowd willingly obliged. They welcomed and expressed their satisfaction of my "new" style through their expressive praise as they openly danced for the Lord.

Looking into the eyes of the young and old while witnessing their praise I knew that I, the homegrown minister, had truly accomplished my goal of touching souls. I realized that my style and look were different but my praise, like God's favor, remained the same. Adding a pretzel to an M & M doesn't mean it's no longer an M & M. It remains the same it just tastes a little different. A rose is a rose no matter the color. Minor changes but still the same. I no longer wear dreads and I didn't have on a suit last night, but my voice, mind and heart were still focused on the Lord. Witnessing the reaction of the worshippers and seekers last night, was further confirmation that God and I were taking my music ministry in the right direction.

In the studio I'm going to continue working on a CD that will be contemporary and traditional. It will be a mix of the "old" and "new" me but it will still be the anointed me. I thank God that I was able to minister to souls in His name last night. To God be the glory!

A quick reminder...

I hope everyone is having a great day! I wanted to remind you that I will be at the 5th Annual Lincoln Park Music Festival this weekend. I will be ministering at 6 p.m. tomorrow night. Come out and enjoy this event! I will see you there and be ready to have a great time...