BISHOP EDDIE LONG & FRIENDS
Bishop Eddie Long, senior pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, will release his debut project Bishop Eddie Long & Friends The Kingdom Volume 1 Featuring GW'S, on Ultimate Entertainment, distributed through E1 Music (formerly KOCH Records), and executive produced by James E. Jones.

In stores May 19, 2009, the 11-track CD is a musical expedition that speaks to the hearts and minds of both the "churched" and the "un-churched" alike featuring extraordinary voices handpicked by Ultimate Entertainment CEO, James E. Jones, who helmed production of the CD.

Having worked with artists as Mary J. Blige and Heavy D, executive producing Montell Jordan, and the Nutty Professor and Rush Hour sound tracks, Jones is the recipe for success and says that in his twenty plus years, in the industry, every experience is different.

"Working with Bishop Long was extraordinary," says Jones. "He is so humble and talented. I have executive produced many artists and believe me when I say he brings a different anointing to the table."

The first single "Righteous Forsaken," a testimony of strength and incentive, speaks words of encouragement and faith to listener's hearts by stating, "Whatever it is you're taking me through / this time I won't be moved / can't give up now you got a plan / even if I don't understand."

According to Bishop Long, "the overall meaning of 'Righteous Forsaken' is that "God will never leave or forsake us in spite of what we are going through at this time."

The endlessly hum-able "Give God Something," featuring Mary Mary, is a cool urban mid-tempo groove that rides over a snare and simply states, "I'm not telling you to dance / I'm not telling you to clap your hands / but you gotta do something"'

Things get moving with "Down With The King," a signature Tye Tribbett hit enhanced with a reminiscent vibe of old school hi-hop. An indication of the direction of this song is displayed in the lyrics, "They might not play this on the radio/but we gone' keep it bangin' out your stereo."

"The Kingdom," featuring Bishop Long, is a testament to why he lives. With strong lyrics over a consistent chant, the message is very clear and is summed up in a powerful ending, "Now you heard my story / I hope you feel my heart/ I'm trying to be like my savior/That's the only thing Jesus talked about/Repent for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand."

While Dorinda Clarke Cole's "Wrapped Up In You" is a surprising twist where her strong yet smooth vocals ride with a familiar ever-so-popular R&B melody, the project keeps the listener in the realm with additional outstanding tracks as "God Has Brought Us Through," "We're Believing," "Gotta Believing," and "Since I Found You," all presenting the harmonious flow of the GW's.

No stranger to the music industry, Bishop Long was featured on rapper Ludacris' album "Release Therapy." He appeared on the final track "Freedom of Preach" where he delivered a speech about God and faith.

When asked their main objective for this project both men of God responded:

"I want to send out the main message that gospel music is for everyone to enjoy," says Long. "Whether it has a beat to it or a traditional feel, it's still gospel."

Jones adds, "I want to make a difference in the gospel music world."

And a difference he will make. With varied and inspired production, and the overall package resonating with inspiration and creativity, music lovers across the board will be pleased.