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Divas Redemption, featuring Paul Smith, is a North Jersey gospel group that blends traditional gospel, today’s R&B and jazz. And for good measure, you can sometimes hear a taste of country.
The “Divas” part of their name fits the ladies’ style of dress and onstage demeanor – fiery, soulful and delightful, while “Redemption” reflects the core message in their music. The “Divas” – Faye Chapman, Keshia Clark and Jeanie Brower -- interchangeably share lead and background roles. Featured lead vocalist, Paul Smith, is a veteran gospel singer and former Brower Brothers group member.
No strangers to gospel fans along the east coast, collectively, they have performed in Europe and Japan and on shows with the likes of Paul Anka, Georgia Mass Choir, Rev. Milton Bingham, Brower Brothers, Rev. John Kee, Lee Willliams and a host of others.
All four members are strong songwriters, and Paul is a talented guitarist. In 2009, the group completed a five-song EP, which was released on indie-label Jay St Records. The EP sets the stage for what’s to come from this dynamic group of performers. The inspiration and power that flows from these five songs go deep into the archives of traditional gospel while tastefully adding R&B and jazz harmonies. And all of this is mirrored – in spades – on stage. The EP’s 5 songs:
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Mid-tempo “Love Him 4 That” leads off with soulful verses from Paul, who lays a solid foundation for Faye’s down-home message. The group’s harmonies are 60s and cutting-edge – at the same time.
Next is up-tempo “Still Good”, with fiery lead vocals by Keshia Clark, all cooked up by North Carolina-based producer “Spanky” Williams.
“He’s The Best” is a heartfelt ballad and Paul at his best. The Divas’ background vocals are lush, and former Newark muscian Benny Hill came up from NC to add his keyboard magic.
“Changed” by DR puts a new spin on this gospel standard. This ballad turns to joyous and up tempo, and Faye’s powerful delivery leaves no doubt that the song has a personal meaning.
“Everything” is fast and furious, and tailor made for Jeanie Brower. She delivers a sermon on top of another foot-stomping track from “Spanky” Williams.
In March 2010, DR thrilled the crowd at the 9th Annual Extravanza 2010 in Olive Branch, MS. They will appear at this year’s McDonald’s Gospelfest in Newark, NJ, and visit Japan on the “Behind The Wall Tour” at Tokyo’s Billboard Live with Kenny Bobien. With a full CD scheduled for release this summer, the group will continue efforts to be heard and seen, and be recoginized as a major new voice in today’s gospel music.
Click here to book Divas Redemption
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