Music
Press
European Magazine -
Here is an excerpt from this months February 2007 issue:
North Carolina proves to be the provenance of this great indie gospel set and what marks it out from dozens of others similarly assembled collection is that Miss Askew is a truly soulful singer who understands that singing demands discipline and rules as well as free-fall melismatics; add to that some properly constructed songs and you have an album that reminds me of prime time, Ann Nesby-helmed Sounds Of Blackness. Most obvious cut to suggest that comparison is "Try Jesus". It's labeled "remix", but an original mix is conspicuous by its absence; it doesn't matter though 'cos this take really satisfies. I'm no believer but the track is stuffed with real optimism and joy that I guess only those with true faith possess. The other big dancer is the opener "Dance like David" which evokes the style of Mary Mary while "Lift Him Up" cleverly samples Stevie's "Sir Duke". Like that, it's a big rambling jazzy affair tempered by some very sweet ballads. Best of those is "Speak Life" which boasts a lovely melody, controlled vocals and tasty harmonies. Indeed, throughout, the backing vocals are one of the LP's strong points – heard to best effect on the extended version of "His Love". Like all but one of the songs it's an original composition. The only "oldie" is the old spiritual "I surrender All" which is enhanced by real strings underling that the team here haven't skimped on production values. Modern gospel fans would be well advised to check out this set, while the modern room crew might want to take a punt for the wonderful "Try Jesus". CDbaby or http://www.masterpiece-records.com/ will help you make up your minds.
Mike W. - Rhythm and Soul Magazine - February Issue
- Rythym and Soul Magazine
Discography
Hope is currently being played on many radio stations throughout the free world. She has reached success with the songs: Dont want to live without you, Try Jesus, Dance Like David, His Love, & I Try which was released on June 30th, 2008.
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Bio
Hope Askew is not bound. Her music ministry has a unique sound, and the delivery of that ministry is an electric, fun and intensely poured out affair of her heart. Whether listening to her new project or watching her on stage, you can clearly see the freedom and joy she lives with.
Unlike many Gospel artists, Hopes career did not begin in the Church. Since childhood, Hope has wowed audiences with her self-written song messages and natural talent. At the age of fifteen, Hope began her professional music career. Hope had written a hosts of R & B songs, released an international single in Germany titled, "I don't have no time" and released a regional single titled, “The Hoop” in the US. With help from her manager, Shelton Flyth, she also landed an opening spot on Ginuwine's Pony Tour. In addition, she is an honorary undefeated champion on the "Amateur Night at the Apollo" show. It was during this season that God called Hope into what is now her new walk with God. Little did Hope know, her greatest work would come in the year 2000 when she gave her life to Christ and started writing songs about her new love and her new experiences.
Hope Askew's first gospel label release was the CD single "Try Jesus". The song received rave reviews and is constantly being played and requested throughout the US. In a custom critique by Taxi staff, the song was said to have, "a very cool lift", "Feels real good...interesting and fresh".
Hope's debut album, Always Hope, was released in November of 2004. The first single entitled, "Don't want to live without you" was placed on the National Gospel Truth Magazine Compilation (#20) cd. She was featured there with Smokey Robinson and many other great national acts. Hope went on to tape several TV shows including WGN’s Singsation in Chicago, Bobby Jones Gospel, and has been on the cover of Gospel USA and appeared in many national magazines.
Hope has been blessed to share the stage with Pastor Andrae Crouch, Fred Hammond, Marvin Sapp, Martha Minuzzi, Donald Lawrence and Tri- City, J Moss and Ty Tribbett to name a few.
Hopes’ newest project, Life, Love, & Music, was produced and recorded by Ray Braswell Jr. and Jamal Lewis for Raymarkable studios. This project is for all walks of life and full of surprises. It is URBAN, TRADITIONAL, CONTEMPORARY, NEO-SOUL, AND RIGHT ON TIME!
Life represents the precious gift that God has bestowed unto us to cherish in good and bad times, Love is God and Music stands for the music ministry that the Lord has bestowed unto Hope to reach the masses: saved and unsaved! You are invited to share the journey of Life, Love, & Music.
Hope hails from Hampton Roads, Virginia where she worships at Second Calvary Baptist Church under the leadership direction of Dr. Geoffrey V. Guns.
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