Glory Music looks to stay on par

Krista Henry, Staff Reporter

Creating opportunities and more visibility for the sometimes underexposed world of reggae-gospel music is a hard task, one that is being undertaken by well-known concert producers Glory Music, who have expanded their portfolio to include bookings for a wide array of gospel artistes.

The Glory Music Booking Agency, spearheaded by Tommy Cowan, has already signed top gospel ministers including Carlene Davis, Judy Mowatt, Prodigal, Jabez, Sister Scully, Jermaine Edwards, Kevin Downswell, Alysia Moulton-White, Deneese, Septimus, and the On The Shout Band. Yet Glory Music wants more for the reggae-gospel field.

In addition, Glory Music has taken its offerings a step further by supplying technical services such as proper sound, lighting, stage, generators, and backline to churches and gospel promoters.

Cowan believes that the gospel and Christian music must "step up to the plate by offering top-quality production."

He told The Sunday Gleaner, "After all, it's the music of the King of Kings, and should be treated as such."

Cowan, an industry veteran, known for his excellent annual concerts, the Best Dressed Fun In The Son, and the Denbigh Gospel Extravaganza, in association with Best Dressed Foods, say: "I believe that in ministry, we should offer a complete package. Firstly, starting with persons being able to readily contact and book gospel artistes when they need to, and knowing a legitimate place to get this done. Secondly, they will also know somewhere which offers superb production of gospel events and will have the equipment readily available.

"We want to help to take gospel music to another level - not just locally, but also in a way which meets international standards. With excellence, more persons are bound to take notice and the ministry of the artistes will become more widespread. That is what it is all about - putting our best foot forward and ensuring that ministry gets the professional push it deserves."

This year, reggae gospel got a big push with the release of Jason Mighty's music video Praise I Do on BET.

The video premiered on BET on Sunday, July 24, during its gospel programme, 'Lift Every Voice'.

Cowan concluded, "When people think of great genres, excellent musicians, professional production services, we also want them to start to readily think of gospel-reggae music and the musicians. It's the way forward in winning souls for the Kingdom."