Tuesday,
June 19, 2012 was a big day for Stellar Award winning gospel artist Byron
Cage. The singer released his ninth album, “Memoirs of A Worshiper” and ended the day with an intimate CD listening party at Melody
Tavern in Arlington, Va. The intimate gathering was filled with industry peers
and well-wishers. Cage demonstrated why he has been called the “Prince of
Praise.” He also proved that he knows how to throw a dynamic and electrifying
listening party.
The night kicked off with music from
Geno and Friends with their jazz flavored instrumental musings. James “Jazzy” Jordan executive vice president, Verity
Gospel Music Group and co-executive producer of the CD welcomed attendees.
Cage's manager, Tracey Artis reflected on Cage’s long career in the
gospel industry. Cage’s mother delivered the opening prayer.
Pastor JoAnn Browning of Ebenezer A.M.E. Church, where Cage has served as Minister of Music for
15 years, spoke words of wisdom and recalled that she gave Cage the title,
Prince of Praise. She said that she recognized that his “anointing is so
powerful.” She also said Cage is “A no foolishness kind of man with an
anointing that rests on him. He loves the Lord, serves the Lord and is a
worshipper of the Lord.”
Cage sang
several songs from “Memoirs of A Worshipper” and was backed by a strong cadre
of vocalists. He opened with “Gratitude” featuring Mumen
“Mookie” Ngenge.Jeremiah
Hicks assumed the
vocals on “Victory,” sung by FredHammond on the
album and did an outstanding job.Clifton
Ross held his own
with Cage on “God Anyhow.” He saved the chart-climbing “Great and Mighty” for
his final set. The song had many in the room lifting their hands in praise and
singing along with the powerful song which was typical of the night. That led
to a medley of worship songs.
Cage called Earnest Pugh to the stage and sang his hit “Rain On
Us.” That was just the beginning of a string of gospel artists that would hit
the stage. Pugh was followed by Lil’ Mo,Phil Bryant and Y’Anna
Crawley who all
gave their take on the song, sending the room into explosive praise. TyeTribbett, who serves with Cage at Ebenezer took to the stage as
well followed by VaShawn Mitchell who sang his signature hit “Nobody
Greater.’ The night concluded with Cage’s groundbreaking hit, “The Presence of
the Lord.” Cheryl Jackson closed in prayer.
Many fellow artists came out to support
the release of “Memoirs of A Worshipper," including Tre
Thomas, Jimmy Russell, Charles
Butler and
gospel industry insider Pastor Jerome Bell.
Check out the slideshow for a glimpse of the listening party and a few of the
attendees.- Source
