Tim Britten, Jr. [S2E4]

In this episode of "Why We Sing," Timothy Britten Jr, our passionate music director, shares his deep connection to music and its role in ministry. He discusses the importance of creativity and exploration in different musical genres, emphasizing the impact of music in uplifting and changing lives for the kingdom of God. He shares personal experiences and insights into the spiritual and transformative power of music, and reflects on his musical journey, family legacy, and spiritual growth; emphasizing the importance of genuine Christianity and the influence of his father, Timothy T. Britten Sr.</p>

00:45:02

Xavian D. Lewis [S2E3]

Join Candice Dixon as she interviews Xavian D. Lewis on this inspiring episode of Why We Sing. Xavian shares his journey as a singer, from his viral video performance of "A Change Is Gonna Come" to leading the gospel choir at Alcorn State University. Xavian offers profound reflections on the importance of music in conveying emotions, bridging barriers, and connecting with God. This episode offers valuable insights on the transformative power of song. </p>

00:26:28

Angela Manuel Davis | The Fitness Evangelist [S2E2]

Angela Manuel Davis is an athlete, international fitness evangelist, and motivational coach. As a former member of the USA Track and Field Team, Angela was a five-time All-American who held world rankings in the 100 meter dash. Her spin classes have become a wildly popular source of spiritual inspiration for many; Oprah even calls her classes "church on a bike"! In this interview, Angela reflects on her journey to integrate faith and coaching, following the example set by her father, baseball great, Jerry Manuel. She also discusses her intentional use of music to take us on a transformational journey during her one-of-a-kind fitness experiences. Through her unique blend of spirituality, music, athleticism, and motivational coaching, Angela Manuel Davis empowers you to change your mind, change your body, and change your life! </p> <br /></p> Stay Connected:</p> www.UCFMinistries.org/WhyWeSing</p> www.instagram.com/UCFMinistries</p> </p> Angela Manuel Davis: www.instagram.com/AngelaManuelDavis</p> <br /></p> Hosted by: Candice M. Dixon</p> <br /></p> Produced by: United Christian Faith Ministries Media Team</p> Sherman Dugas, Crystal Lee, Jordan Godfrey</p>

00:41:46

Mark Ellis, Jr. | God Will Work It Out... Ablazingly! [S2E01]

Mark Ellis Jr., the Youth Minister of Music at United Christian Faith Ministries, discusses his lifelong passion for singing and music, and the influence of his musical parents. He also describes his role in directing the Ablaze Youth Choir and the challenges and rewards of managing a large choir. Mark emphasizes the importance of intentional ministry in music, discusses the intersection of passion and purpose, and shares insights into his process for creating unique musical arrangements. He also discusses the development of the new song he wrote, "Work It Out", and upcoming plans for the Ablaze Youth Choir!</p> <br />Stay Connected:</p> <a href="http://www.ucfministries.org/WhyWeSing" target="_blank">www.UCFMinistries.org/WhyWeSing</a></p> UCFM IG: <a href="">@UCFMinistries</a></p> Ablaze Youth Choir IG: <a href="">@AblazeYouthChoir</a></p> Mark Ellis Jr IG: <a href="">@ykmark_jr</a></p> <br /></p> Hosted by: Candice M. Dixon</p> Produced by: United Christian Faith Ministries Media Team Sherman Dugas, Crystal Lee, Jordan Godfrey </p>

00:22:35

Brenda Palmer | Tuning In To How Music Makes Us Feel [S1E10]

In this episode, preacher, producer, and podcaster, Brenda Palmer highlights the incredible power of music to shape our emotions and thoughts. She shares openly about how intentional music choices were key in lifting her from a difficult season. Brenda explains how music tells us how to feel and the importance of becoming more aware of what we are meditating on and confessing in the music we listen to and sing.</p> <br /></p> Candice M. Dixon, Host</p>

00:36:33

Mayor Sharon Weston Broome | He Made A Way [S1E8]

Sharon Weston Broome, Mayor-President of Baton Rouge, discusses her experience playing music, the power and need for music in her life, and the nearly 3 year ministry God has given her with her weekly Winning Wednesday Prayer with the Mayor.</p> <br /></p> Candice M. Dixon, Host</p>

00:21:39

Isaiah Roberts | A Song of Repentance and Freedom [S1E9]

We had the pleasure of talking to the multi-talented, singer, songwriter, producer, and podcaster, Isaiah Roberts! Considering the pressure and expectations of others that came from being the son of well known pastors, Touré Roberts and Sarah Jakes Roberts, Isaiah was, at one point, unsure about releasing music. However, as he came to better understand his identity in God and how his parent's ministries have evolved over time, he overcame feelings of inadequacy and recently released a powerful song of repentance and freedom called "Last Time". In this episode, Isaiah candidly discusses his personal battle that inspired the song, the importance and purpose of the waiting / incubation period before being thrust into the public eye, and the seed of servanthood that teaches and prepares us to be effective in ministry. </p> <br /></p> Candice M. Dixon, Host</p>

00:27:22

Leonard Burks | Everyday Is A Day of Thanksgiving [S1E7]

Our Minister of Music, Nancy Armstrong, caught up with Leonard Burks at the National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses in New Orleans, Louisiana. Leonard is a songwriter and composer of many popular songs including “Everyday Is A Day of Thanksgiving”!</p>

00:19:41

Dr. Kedric Taylor | Directing the Human Jukebox! [S1E6]

Our youth co-host, Keondra Anthony, sits down with Dr. Kedric Taylor, the Band Director of the Human Jukebox Marching Band of Southern University and A&M College.</p>

00:12:14

Donney Rose | Hip-Hop & the Impact and Evolution of Music [S1E5]

Poet, Teaching Artist, & Community Activist, Donney Rose, discusses the merger of hip-hop and gospel music, sensory detail in music, the responsibility of an artist to reflect the times, and so much more. </p> <br /></p> Donney Rose is a poet, teaching artist, essayist, and community activist from Baton Rouge but currently living in Bowie, MD, with his wife, Leslie D. Rose. </p> <br /></p> Donney has worked extensively in the realm of the creative arts. In 2019 he produced The American Audit, a multimedia spoken word poetry production chronicling 400 years of Black American life. He's hosted many events and conferences, one of them being, the Black Out Loud Conference that was centered around Black visibility in the arts, media, and activism.</p> <br /></p> He has many honors and awards. In 2019 he was honored as a Kennedy Center Citizen Artist Fellow, recognized as someone who uses his art for positive impact on his communities and "lives up to the ideals of service, justice, freedom, courage, and gratitude that are inspired by President (John F.) Kennedy’s legacy.</p>

00:58:37