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Going against the grain is not an easy thing to do —especially in Gospel music.
When a debut artist tackles taboo issues —you know, the ones that are not usually talked about in church— then rest assured there will be backlash from some of the saints.
That doesn't stop new artist Shei Atkins, (SoulMuzick Recordings) from going that route. The Houstonian offers Life in Stereo, a highly urban set full of dope beats, stunning background arrangements, and smooth R&P ballads.
Atkins’ husband, Drathoven, handles most of the production on the album with help from Ken Keis, Crazy C, Marcus Ecby and Ancio Henderson.
Atkins starts the album with two dance tracks (sure to quickly be added to many a dance team's repertoire). “Lead the Way” is a thumping joint that makes your head hurt from all the bobbing. Fellow Houston rappers Chamillionare and Paul Wall provide an interesting sonic twist on the Drathoven and Keis produced “No Love”.
“Song 4 You” is used to raise questions about the issues common to many. Drathoven layers the song with sitar samples to give it an arabic, Tonex-esque sound. Atkins covers the topic of waiting until marriage to have sex, and the dangers of getting into steamy situations on “Temptations”.
“Betcha She” has all the attributes of a R&B radio station mainstay— amazing background vocals from Atkins, the subject of a man leaving his wife for another woman, and a nice slow urban beat. All done from a Godly perspective. Mainstream radio, play this jam!
On “Try Again Pt I and II”, the struggles, the triumphs and the importance of marriage as a covenant are addressed. Gene Moore Jr. provides his always smooth and potent vocals on “Try Again, Part II”.
The Skinner Sisters guest on the encouraging “Keep On Holding On”. Atkins fits in well, perhaps so much so that she could be mistaken for one of them. Keis provides the infectious mid-tempo track for this one.
Atkins puts the focus on songs that are scripturally based, with the ballad “Prayer of the Righteous” as a good example, with lyrics taken from a portion of James 5:14. “Humble Yourself (2 Chron. 7:14)" is a wonderful song encouraging those who are hurting to humble themselves, let go and let God. Ancio Henderson produces and plays all the instruments on this soothing ballad.
Atkins also pays homage to her foundation with a medley of hymns, tackling “Oh How I Love Jesus”, “Nearer To Thee”, “I Need Thee” and “Blessed Assurance”. Glenn Piper provides the piano work to accent these timeless classics.
Labelmate Gary Mayes lends his production talents to “When It Seems”, with Atkins again showcasing her lovely vocals. The background arrangements on this song in particular, are awesome.
Other stuff to check out is the jumping and 'in yo' face' “Quit Bumpin”, as well as the Bryan Wilson-produced “Nothing Compares”.
What a debut by Shei Atkins. Showing street savvy, compassion for the hurt and a love for the Word of God, even if she does suffer criticism for tackling those 'taboo issues', no one can deny her gift as she brings Life in Stereo.
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Producer: Drathoven and others
album release date: July, 2004
SoulMuzick Recordings
— reviewed by Dwayne Lacy —
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- gospelflava.com
For the sheer sake of connection, I will make a comparison at the top of this review. Shei Atkins bears a severe vocal resemblance to Cheryl "Coko" Gamble of SWV fame. That being said, the project from there is ALL Shei Atkins. Musically described as a very hip, urban friendly project, the lyrical content also provides serious food for thought. Songs like No Love talk about the ills of relationships and the desire for a real relationship with Jesus. Shei hits with lyrics like "How come people only go to church when there is something wrong? How come I can't say Jesus in a hit song?"
You can definitely have a smooth party groove with this entire project. However, some of my personal favorites are Nothing Compares, Prayers Of The Righteous and Keep On Holdin' On (featuring the Skinner Sisters). Life In Stereo offers 20 solid tracks of urban blast. There are a couple of tracks, such as the Oh How I Love Jesus Medley, that the older genereation might be able to grab on to. But this one is definitely for the younger crowd. Get ready to bob your heads, groove and dance to tracks like Quit Bumpin'. But don't forget the Word that is tightly wound into this one.
- Kay3music.com
Keep an ear out for the big Texas voice of Shei Atkins, a 21-year old on Soulmuzick.
(c) 2004 GospelFlava.com - GospelFlava.com
Discography
Shei can be currently heard on three cuts from the Cd "Soulmuzick presents: Street Gospel Vol.1" as well as the highly acclaimed and grammy nominated Holy HipHop Compilation being distributed via EMI music, Gary Mayes & Nu Era Christmas CD " Go Tell It" and her solo debut CD on the Soulmuzick label entitled "Life in Stereo" in stores now.
Photos
Feeling a bit camera shy
Bio
Shei began her quest to be an artist with Destiny's Child Co-Founder Ann Tillman. Under the guidance of Mrs. Tillman, Shei traveled and performed at various places while polishing up her craft. Shei got her first big gig singing the chrous for Houston Rapper Lil' O in 1997, who was at that time managed by Destiny's Child other founder Mathew Knowles. While recording with Lil' O Shei met producer Crazy C., who has produced and re-mixed for several acts including OutKast, Goodie Mob, Jodeci, Scarface, Geto Boys and others. During this time Crazy C. was amazed at such a mature voice coming from this teen aged girl as she was being directed by the now superstar Beyonce’ Knowles. As God would have it, Crazy C. would dedicate his life to Christ and start a label called Soulmuzick years later, meet a young and upcoming producer by the name of Drathoven, (while attending a concert by soulmuzick's first act S.O.U.L.), who would later turn out to be the husband of Shei who had just decided to dedicate her gift to Christ. Shei has opened or performed with several big name artists including J.Moss, Fred Hammmond, Mary J. Blige, Tonex, Gary Mayes & Nu Era, T.D. Jakes mega fest youth stage 2004, Holy Hip Hop awards 2005, iiX Magazine 1 year anniversary and Holy Hip Hop GMA show at the nashville Hard Rock Cafe.
Shei has ministry performances have been critically acclaimed everywhere she has went and God continues to bless her ministry as she continues to chart new territory with her music.
Get ready for Shei Atkins!!!!
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