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Repossing Reggae for the Kingdom of God
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http://www.crossrhythms.co.uk/articles/music/Wayne_Stoddart_Repossessing_reggae_for_the_Kingdom_Of_G...http://www.crossrhythms.co.uk/articles/music/Wayne_Stoddart_Repossessing_reggae_for_the_Kingdom_Of_God/30726/p1/
Tony Cummings quizzed award winning reggae singer WAYNE STODDART about his music and ministry
Wayne Stoddart
Wayne Stoddart
Slowly but surely reggae gospel music has taken ground. Where once it was considered by most church ministers a bizarre oxymoron and the general view was that the sinuous reggae rhythms had best be left to the cult of Rastafarianism, today there are numerous reggae gospel acts and some, like Wayne Stoddart, have received considerable recognition. For instance, Wayne's first solo album 'Committed' was nominated Best New Reggae Gospel Album for the New York Caribbean Gospel Awards (NYCGA) while the singer has shared stages with such acts as Shirley Caesar, Rev F C Barnes and Judy Mowatt. Wayne's second solo album 'Love Convictions' is powerful, yet accessible, roots reggae. Cross Rhythms quizzed the singer about his past and present.
Wayne was born in Kingston, Jamaica and later moved to the country to live with his father in Trelawny. While at primary school he got his first taste for music at a concert at his school. "I was in grade four at the time and I just started singing a pop song and doing all the dance moves. The class went wild." As a result of that primary school experience, Wayne and his brother Steve started singing together as the Stoddart Brothers. Stoddart did not grow up in a Christian home but his parents sent him and his brother to Sunday school. While there the gospel message was planted in his heart by the Rev John Luke Thomas.
Wayne started his recording career in 1995 with his church group at Mountain View New Testament Church of God. Credited Wayne Stoddart And The Dynamis Singers the album 'Fulfilment Of The Bible', showcasing seven songs written by Stoddart, gained some interest in JA, being nominated in the JAMI Awards. By the time Wayne went solo and released his album 'Committed' he was recognised as one of the finest reggae gospel singers in Jamaica with his album being nominated Best New Reggae Gospel Album for the New York Caribbean Gospel Awards (NYCGA) 2002. In 2003 Stoddart won the award for the most Distinguished Male Vocalist at the Merlin Gospel Awards.
Now Wayne's new album 'Love Convictions' is picking up critical plaudits. 12 of the 14 songs were recorded in Miami, Florida. Said Wayne, "The most amazing thing was that the album was never rehearsed before the recording sessions. The band learnt the songs in the studio and created the music within minutes. The entire live tracks, drums, bass and keyboards were recorded in two four-hour studio sessions. I went into the studio with great musicians and 'prayed up' divine inspiration for eight hours and came out with 'Love Convictions'. It is the Lord's doing and it is marvellous!"
Wayne Stoddart: Repossessing reggae for the Kingdom Of God
Wayne feels that reggae gospel is not getting the recognition it deserves. He said, "It always puzzles me how the world accepted reggae selling a religion hailing Selassie as God; a man who was not only a Christian but also one who denounced people worshipping him and yet these very people reject the same music advocating the truth that Jesus Christ is Lord. Then again, I am not mystified because the Word says in 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12 '. . .who refused to love the truth that would save them. For this reason, God will send them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie. Then all who have not believed the truth but have taken pleasure in unrighteousness will be condemned.' As music ministers even though we don't get the recognition we deserve as musicians we cannot let this fuel us as the aim is not recognition but to bring truth/light to a dark and lost world."
Sadly the Church itself still sometimes shows prejudice towards reggae music. Said Waye, "The Church on a whole is a bit more tolerant now but there is still a great deal of opposition by hardliner traditional folks. Reggae is still seen as Rasta music by many; however, we continue to fight for the liberation from mental slavery. We know that the Devil owns nothing, he is a thief! He was the chief musician (Lucifer) in heaven. He knows the power of music and seeks to lay claim on that which was created by God and entrusted to him at one point in time. He would love it if the Church would surrender reggae, dancehall, hip-hop, rap, rock and other genres that appeal to young people to him so he could control and manipulate the emotions of our future generation. My theme is 'Repossessing the music for Kingdom building.' That is my response to the father of lies' schemes." CR
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"Love Convictions connects with listeners on multiple levels."
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http://www.indie-music.com/bands/index.php?mode=cp
Reviews: Wayne Stoddart ~ Love Convictions
Po...http://www.indie-music.com/bands/index.php?mode=cp
Reviews: Wayne Stoddart ~ Love Convictions
Posted on Saturday, March 08, 2008 @ 14:48:58 EST
Topic: Reviews
Artist: Wayne Stoddart
CD: Love Convictions
Home: Florida
Style: Reggae
Quote: "Love Convictions connects with listeners on multiple levels."
By Dan MacIntosh
If you listen only to the music of Love Convictions, you might mistake it for just another Rastafarian reggae release. But if you listen closely to the lyrics you’ll hear the name “Jesus” praised, not “Jah." Thus, this is a collection of praise and worship songs, yet with an authentic reggae beat.
The track “Move On," for example, seems on the surface to be a political/social call to rise up above difficult circumstance -- much like many other back-to-Africa anthems found in reggae’s repertoire. Only Stoddart sings, “Move on in Jesus’ name,” instead. But once again, if you don’t pay close attention to the words, you may completely miss Stoddart’s strictly Christian point.
One titled “Lives in Smoke” completely flies in the face of typical Rastafarian sentiments. Rastafarians believe marijuana is a spiritual element in worship, much like way bread and wine are used in Christian communion. Although Stoddart doesn’t specifically sing out against pot, his rant about dope likely also includes weed in its bad substance list. He also sings against cocaine and tobacco, explaining how such abuse sends lives up in smoke.
Songs like “Reggae Rock” do just that – rock. But Stoddart is equally effective when he quiets the music down. One particularly memorable song is “Testify," which includes nice electric guitar fills. The track’s easygoing nature may remind you a little of Bob Marley’s great “Redemption Songs."
Stoddart also receives help from musical guests on a couple of tracks. St. Matthew helped write and here performs “Love Me," a song that asks where love has gone. Steve “Zemer” Stoddart wrote and performs on “Turn It Over," which is flavored with pumping organ.
One of this CD’s most pleasant surprises is a take on “The Love of God," re-titled and reggae-fied as “Bountiful Love” and performed slowly and thoughtfully. “The Love of God” is a song we sing regularly in church. In fact, I couldn’t resist sharing this version of the song with our worship team. Although I cannot imagine our conservative, mostly white Baptist church singing it on Sunday morning, I have no problem singing it in the privacy of my home. Maybe we’ll actually get the congregation skanking to it one day. Who knows?
Reggae music is spiritual music. And while I have severe theological differences with Rastafarianism, reggae music oftentimes brings me closer to God nevertheless. With Love Convictions, however, I have also found a sound theological connection with the artist. But even if theology is not an issue with you, it’s hard not to enjoy Stoddart’s smooth singing and comforting songs. Love Convictions connects with listeners on multiple levels.
Indie-Music ProfileIndie-Music Profile
Artist Website: http://www.waynestoddart.com
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Love Convictions Reviewed on Cross Rhythms
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Reviewed by Tony Cummings
If the Lion Of Zion catalogue hasn't sufficiently satiated your desire ...Reviewed by Tony Cummings
If the Lion Of Zion catalogue hasn't sufficiently satiated your desire for authentic roots reggae gospel then let me point you to this set from an award winning reggae man. The delicious mid-tempo opener "Love In Any Language" boldly proclaims the difference between religion and true Christian faith while there's a cooking organ solo from producer C McDonald, "Highest Praise" has a nice "steppin'" rhythm while "Turn It Over" features a soulful contribution from Zamar. All in all this is quality stuff thoroughly recommended to those who go for those sinuous JA riddims and lyrics that proclaim (quoting from the sleeve) the "Almighty Creator who in the fullness of time has used his servant to bring this message of love to the world."
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Gospel Reggae Singer Wayne Stoddart Releases New Album (03.12.07)
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Gospel Reggae Singer Wayne Stoddart Releases New Album (03.12.07)
After the success of his solo a...Gospel Reggae Singer Wayne Stoddart Releases New Album (03.12.07)
After the success of his solo album entitled 'Committed', the Inspirational Roots Sensation Wayne Stoddart returns with an independent Roots Rospel album entitled, 'Love Conviction'.
The Jamaican born Reggae singer is no stranger to the circuit. Amongst his achievements includes nomination for Best News Reggae Gospel Album at the (NYCGA) New York Caribbean Gospel Awards in 2002. Also in 2003 he received another nomination for the same awards, this time for the most Distinguished Male Vocal, and was nominated best New Reggae Gospel Album by the Marlin Gospel Awards in 2004.
The album has a deep introspective approach to other albums of it's kind. Stoddart said: "It addresses the issue of misplaces priorities that plagues humanity". Wayne hopes that listeners will be inspired through the tracks: "I pray this album makes a difference in the lives of all who come within earshot".
Stoddart's view on writing songs for the album came from his close relationship with God, as the Holy Spirit spoke words for his life.
Songs such as the militant 'Move On', the laidback and clear 'Live Love and Learn' to the foot stomping 'Reggae Rock' all identify the love for God and each other.
Wayne's songs each come with real meanings from today's major issues that cry out for more awareness such as drug abuse on the song 'Lives in Smoke' and 'Love in any Language' which talks about disunity in the world and a need for ethnic, religious and social harmony to spread throughout.
Certified Platinum Producer Dale "Dr Dizzle" Virgo pops up to add his special touch on 'Highest Praise'.
The album featured Background vocals from the experienced Music Circuit which included the likes of TNJ and a talented band with production casts included members of the Code Red.
Stoddart's road to success started in the mid 90's as he toured with the Grace Thrillers, and has had the privilege of sharing the stage with such legends like Shirley Caesar, and Morgan Heritage.
The official album launch for Stoddart took place on the 1-2 December at the 'Power of Praise Convocation' held at The New Testament Church of God, Fort Lauderdale, Florida in the U.S. He was featured with special guests that included reggae's international ambassador Stichie, Canadian star Jermaine Cowan, Justin Credible and the funky St Matthew.
Wayne is a blessing to watch on or off stage and this album will prove what he is about and the fact that he wants to win souls for God. Another good result for Gospel Reggae.
For more information, please visit www.myspace.com/waynestoddart
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Love Convictions CD Reviewed
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http://www.unsignedthemagazine.com/brandnew/theheat.html#Stoddart
Love Convictions -Wayne Stodda...http://www.unsignedthemagazine.com/brandnew/theheat.html#Stoddart
Love Convictions -Wayne Stoddart
By: Carolina Jones
This aint your regular gospel music. Wayne Stoddart’s reggae flavored songs of testament reach into your soul and not only pulls out the groove it soaks it in love, enhances it and stuffs it right back into you’re truth starved heart. This thing truly grooves as well as inspires. His vocals are on point. He knows where he fits and keeps it right there with assault after assault of eye opening lyrics. This artist’s spirit sounds oh so good.
JAMI (Jamaica Music Awards) nominee for Best Inspirational Reggae Band of 1996, Best New Reggae Gospel album Nominee for the New York Caribbean Gospel Awards (NYCGA) 2002, Awarded 2003 most Distinguished Male Vocal (NYCGA) and Nominated best New Reggae Gospel Album by the Merlin Gospel Awards 2004 Wayne Stoddart has positioned himself as a trailblazer in the Root Reggae fraternity.
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Love Convictions CD Reviewed
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Wayne Stoddart
Love Connections
Wayne Stoddart is back with his reggae grooves on Love Connectio...Wayne Stoddart
Love Connections
Wayne Stoddart is back with his reggae grooves on Love Connections.
"Move On" has that midtempo vibe that would fit well at a Reggae Sunsplash Festival, but would stick on because of its message. Dance and jump around on the infectious, "Reggae Rock", which leans more on the dancehall side.
CD On "Love Me", fellow island artist St. Matthew brings his rapid delivery to aid Stoddart and with his 'A game' in play, parlays the syncopated cut into a real head-nodder. Praise and worship, reggae style would be the right description to describe, "Highest Praise".
"Streams in the Desert" is a worship ballad that describes the comfort God brings during very rough times. Light backing vocals accompany Stoddart's soft vibrato. "Live, Love and Learn" moves in a similar vein.
Clearly Stoddart is influenced by the Marleys, be it Bob or son Ziggy. This is evident on "Love In Any Language", in which he speaks of the unifying language of love (a la Bob Marley). Check out the organ solo by Craig McDonald.
Love Connections is another good one from Wayne Stoddart. No surprises here, reggae enthusiasts will enjoy it.
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Wayne Stoddart - Committed CD Review
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A great deal of reggae is what the business world euphemistically calls “mission driven†and Way...A great deal of reggae is what the business world euphemistically calls “mission driven†and Wayne Stoddart’s Committed (Platinum Gospel) certainly qualifies. As musical director of the Mountain View New Testament Church of God, he bases songs like “Pilot of my Life,†“Save my Soul†and “Spending Time With God†on a firm foundation: as the notes explain, “the theme is Christ, the story is victory and the message is life and life more abundantly.†That said and despite his clear qualification as a gospel singer this is a reggae album through and through, with bubbling and pop hook – a quite pleasant and enjoyable journey that is as musical as it is message-filled. Stoddart has found the balance between the Word and the musical deed and his up-to-date self-production is informed by a contemporary Jamaican feel (the mastering was done by none other than Dave Kelly) that helps get his message out to more than just the choir.
[Reviewed by: Chuck Foster hosts “Reggae Central†on KPFK-FM, Los Angeles (Streaming live at www.kpfk.org Sundays at 3 p.m. Pacific time) and is author of Roots Rock Reggae: An oral History of Jamaica Music Published by Billboard books. Email: Author]
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Committed Reviewed - 3 star
http://www.geocities.com/waynestoddart/gleanerrev.jpg
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Wayne Stoddart: Committed (Street Mix Edition) [Undiluted Gospel, 2006]
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This disc of “roots reggae gospel†is evidently an updated version of an album from 2002, comple...This disc of “roots reggae gospel†is evidently an updated version of an album from 2002, complete with alternate mix (“Street Mixâ€) and three bonus tracks. I can’t help but wish that the theology reflected herein were similarly updated from the thinking prevalent in the middle ages, but perhaps that’s none of my business, so on with what is.
Committed measures up nicely to expectations. It’s well over an hour of good tunes, accomplished vocals and modern roots rhythms. The arrangements are certainly adequate, although they and all other musical elements are almost always subservient to the words being sung. The medium is not the message, the lyrics are.
“The spirit of the Lord is upon me, I’m lifted up above my enemies,†Stoddart sings in the first track. The song’s structure displays movement, and with the perfect balance of lead and background vocals, it’s a promising start. Then comes the title track, which has the singer “committed to the path/ submissive to the task.†On the next he is pleading: “Jesus, begging you to save my soul…begging you to lead me to that promised land.â€
By now the broad lyrical theme is set, although musical ideas continue to expand. The tempo slows down and speeds up at appropriate intervals, with guest vocalists and toasters enriching the proceedings. Appealing rub-a-dub, impatient dancehall, suffocating wall-of-sound, simpering yet brittle guest vocal by Chevelle Franklyn: Committed covers the waterfront. Speaking of water, Paul Simon’s tedious “Bridge Over Troubled Waters†gets its usual overproduced treatment; the song takes itself far too seriously and seems to have the same effect on all who venture near it. Compare that to what directly follows: “He’s Everything to Me,†a simple expression of faith.
The best is saved for last, a great gospel group shouter: it’s lots of fun, with piano and organ leading the instrumentation, and for once the music is allowed to dominate the theology. As a celebration of life and faith, it encapsulates for me the pleasures of gospel reggae.
I didn’t catch this album on its first go-round, but I am mightily pleased to do so on its second. I can testify (an appropriate word) that Committed will appeal to most reggae lovers, musically speaking, and for some, maybe even lyrically speaking.
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Committed CD Review - 4.5 Star
http://www.reggaecd.com/rev_sin/wscommit.htm
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