This summer the most thoughtfully curated music and entertainment belongs to the city of Dallas! From melodic sounds to more rhythmic grooves – and every syncopated beat in between – expect to be entertained by the industry’s most creative talent. During the four-day faith, family, and film experience, you’ll enjoy performances by award-winning artists, as well as upcoming talent from around the world. Whether you’re attending MegaYouth, MegaKidz, or Woman Thou Art Loosed (WTAL), among other conference segments, these creative masterminds are sure to empower you.
Uplifting and transformative messages and electrifying performances are inspired by the reverberating sounds of jazz, classical, folk, and blues, among other musical genres. Artists including Adrion Butler, Briana Babineaux, Jor’Dan Armstrong, and Tasha Cobbs, among others, will refresh your mind and soul. We encourage you to continue to check back often as we update our roster of entertainers. So, this summer get ready to experience only the best in faith-based entertainment at MegaFest in Dallas, TX!
FEATURED ARTISTS
JJ Hairston
Youthful Praise and Worship Leader, JJ Hairston has traveled the world, ministered the Gospel, and garnered national and international recognition. Currently, Hairston writes, produces, and leads Youthful Praise, though he did not imagine himself in such a position in his youth. Growing up in Brooklyn, NY, Hairston spent most of his time at Mt. Sinai Cathedral COGIC where his grandfather, Bishop C.L. Sexton was the pastor. JJ would watch daily as the ministry was laid before him. After moving to Bridgeport, CT, Hairston made the decision to make a change in his life and began directing the Central High School Gospel Choir, subsequently joining Youthful Praise. He and Youthful Praise continue to travel extensively due to the huge success of songs that JJ has written or co-written, including ”Resting On His Promise”, ”Lord You’re Mighty”, and Youthful Praise’s groundbreaking ”Incredible God—Incredible Praise”.
A TIME TO LAUGH COMEDY SHOW
INTERNATIONAL FAITH & FAMILY FILM FESTIVAL
J. Moss
Born and raised in Detroit, J. Moss hails from gospel music royalty as the son of the late Bill Moss, Sr., founder of Bill Moss & The Celestials and – the nephew of Gospel’s legendary Dr. Mattie Moss Clark, the cousin of her daughters – the Clark Sisters. Singing since the age of four, his father and mother, Essie Moss, created an environment where music was the focal point. After J spent time as a Celestial, his father paired him with his brother, Bill Jr., in a group called The Moss Brothers, which recording two albums.
J naturally picked up the piano and by the time he headed for college, Michigan State University, he had become a skilled songwriter and received his musical calling as his primary preoccupation in life. After two solo projects on an independent Detroit-based label in the early ’80s, J Moss developed as a writer, artist and producer. That also marked his crucial introduction to Paul ”PDA” Allen and Walter Kearney, the other two thirds of PAJAM.
Now it is time for the new energy and sound from J Moss coming on the new label with his partners Allen and Kearney, called PMG Records, Moss first single set the tone of encouragement with his feel good song, ”Alright OK”. A simple melody with a simple message that will stick with you throughout the day.
Multiple Grammy and Stellar Award winning artist J Moss released two albums with the new style, ‘Grown Folks Gospel’ that debuted at #1 on Billboard and the latest album GFG RELOAD, that reached the top 4 on Billboard. The latest GFG RELOAD comes off the ”Grown Folks Gospel” album J Moss that presented some of his past hits as well as a taste of the new on this release which continues to make him one of the best-selling Gospel artist of our time. It features songs that are complimented by special guest, Jazz Saxophonist and Recording Artist Kirk Whalum, R&B Diva Faith Evans, the late Jazz Bass Player Wayman Tisdale, and new pop a cappella group Vocally Challenged! As J Moss continues to captivate audiences the responses to the GFG album series has been, ”Incredible”, ”makes me cry”, ”great music of inspiration”, ”smooth and soothing”, ”hot!” and ”Thank you J for this one”. Once again promising to be another signature release from J Moss on PMG Records that has blessed people around the world.
With over 800K in albums sold across 6 albums, J Moss is one of the most successful and recognized gospel music artists of our day. For over a decade, Moss has issued a fresh, passionate sound. His music continues to be a heated, thought provoking explosion of shape-shifting contemporary Gospel that exhausts roads high and low to reach listeners of all ages – as only J Moss can reach them.
WOMAN THOU ART LOOSED
Tye Tribbett
With a listen to Tye Tribbett, it’s obvious that God has blessed him with many gifts. Noted as one of the most relevant voices of this generation, with a sound that reaches the hearts of the young and the old, this New Jersey native’s high-energy and infectious sound has helped redefine Gospel music. Subsequently, Tribbett’s musical talents have earned him two Billboard #1 albums, two GRAMMY® Awards, four Stellar Awards, two Dove Awards, a Soul Train Music Award, and career sales exceeding 1.2 million units to date. Tribbett, a charismatic and energetic personality in Gospel music, can be seen hosting the new Sunday morning inspirational show, Joyful Noise, on BET every week. He can also be seen pastoring alongside his wife, Shante Tribbett, at their newly launched ministry, LiVe Church, in Orlando, Florida.
MANPOWER
JJ Hairston
Youthful Praise and Worship Leader, JJ Hairston has traveled the world, ministered the Gospel, and garnered national and international recognition. Currently, Hairston writes, produces, and leads Youthful Praise, though he did not imagine himself in such a position in his youth. Growing up in Brooklyn, NY, Hairston spent most of his time at Mt. Sinai Cathedral COGIC where his grandfather, Bishop C.L. Sexton was the pastor. JJ would watch daily as the ministry was laid before him. After moving to Bridgeport, CT, Hairston made the decision to make a change in his life and began directing the Central High School Gospel Choir, subsequently joining Youthful Praise. He and Youthful Praise continue to travel extensively due to the huge success of songs that JJ has written or co-written, including ”Resting On His Promise”, ”Lord You’re Mighty”, and Youthful Praise’s groundbreaking ”Incredible God—Incredible Praise”.
Jesse Campbell
An International recording artist who sings heart-felt Universal music with soul. Born in Chicago, IL, Jesse Campbell’s voice emerged at the age of sixteen when he began leading songs with the church choir where his father, Bishop W.J. Campbell is Pastor.
Jesse broke out of his gospel roots in 1994, signing a recording contract with Underworld/Capitol Records. During this time, he recorded and released his first hit single, When You Cry, I Cry, from his debut album, Never Let You Go. He also recorded the smash hit, Where Is The Love, from the movie soundtrack Dead Presidents, which sold over 500,000 copies, and was certified gold.
Jesse has performed with many of the world’s renowned speakers and has performed both LIVE and in-studio with some of the most successful recording artists in the music industry. During season two of NBC’s ”The Voice”, the stars aligned and Jesse was invited to join the hit reality show, giving the world a glimpse of his profound vocal talent. His story and live performances have been featured on commercials, feature films, television shows and other promotions. Jesse’s performances won the hearts and mutual respect of celebrity coaches Christina Aguilera, Adam Levine, Cee Lo Green and Blake Shelton, along with 40+ million viewers. Jesse’s international recognition dramatically increased and continues to grow from his jaw dropping live performances via social media. Jesse has performed as the guest celebrity on ”The Voice” in Asia, GQ’s ”Man of the Year” in Moscow, Day Of The City Celebration in Brest, Belarus and has worked in partnership with many Fortune 500 companies including Comcast/Universal, McDonalds and Apple.
During Jesse’s career he has made many personal appearances and live performances on national television shows including: The Tonight Show, WGN Morning Show, Showtime at the Apollo, BET’s Video Soul, and Soul Train. With Jesse’s vocal talent, he has the pleasure of working alongside many highly respected recording artist’s including Jesse J, Mary J Blige, Christina Aguilera, The Winans, Andre Crouch and The Hawkins. Jesse has and continues to travel the world sharing his vocal prowess in South and Central Americas, UK, Eastern Europe, Africa, Asia and many more to come.
Jesse is currently recording his next Album. Jesse is one of today’s most gifted singers, whose unique, captivating vocals command attention from the first note. Jesse’s charisma, unique gift of reaching others and humble roots inspire people from all walks of life, and his amazing voice continues to permanently etch his voice in hearts and minds worldwide.
InstagramTwitterPeriscope: SingJesseSing. Facebook: JesseCampbellFanPage
Fred Hammond
Fred Hammond (Film): For more than 35 years, music lovers around the world have known Grammy, Stellar, Dove, and NAACP Award Winning artist Fred Hammond as a gifted vocalist, songwriter, musician, producer and arranger. But as his peers and supporters alike including some of the world’s most notable figures including Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston, and Chaka Khan have so reverently declared that Hammond is without debate the architect behind the creation of a phenomenon in Christian music, Urban Praise & Worship-a genre of music that did not exist prior. As a result, Fred Hammond has become one of the most respected names in the music industry! Throughout his professional career, Hammond has maintained a reputation for excellence and few gospel artists can boast of the consistency of sales, radio airplay and concert appearances that Hammond has achieved over the course of his career independent of the cross-over boost. As a solo artist, founder of the pioneering urban group, Commissioned, and his work with Radical for Christ combined, Fred has sold over 8 million albums and these endeavors have made him a mainstay on Billboard’s Gospel Chart top 10. His previous release {Pages of Life} Chapters I & II exceeded Double Platinum status and held the #1 position on the Billboard Gospel Charts for over 15 weeks. His 2006 project entitled Free To Worship earned him the highly esteemed Grammy Award, bombarded Billboard’s #1 position on the Gospel Charts and was hailed as one of the year’s best-selling albums!
Beyond Hammond’s individual success, his achievements as CEO of Face to Face Productions and the FHammond Music Label have placed him in a class by himself. Since their inception, Hammond has served as producer on more than 100 album projects, racking up numerous awards and nominations including the Grammy, BET, N.A.A.C.P. Image, Stellar, Dove, and GMWA Excellence Awards. His debut independent release entitled ”In Case You Missed… And Then Some” sold well over 200,000 copies.
Over the years, he went on to produce several other incredible specialty projects including his Jazz album Grandad Turner, the project dedicated to love, relationships, and marriage–God, Love, and Romance, and the formation of the United Tenors-an incredible, relevant yet nostalgic presentation of the ultimate, modern-day quartet with hit after hit, earning several stellar awards and nominations in 2013.
The pages continue to turn for the platinum recording artist! Hammond has taken his creative savvy to a higher level moving into from the stage to the big screen with the movie, The Gospel. This feature film was both Executive Produced and Inspired by Hammond, and boasted a stellar cast including Boris Kojo, Nona Gaye, Donnie McClurkin, Yolanda Adams, Hezekiah Walker and Martha Munizzi. His first independent film venture, ”Christmas…Who Needs It” written by Hammond and PamKenyon M. Donald, took first place at the 2009 Hollywood Black Film Festival, is hailed as ”…an intriguingly-hilarious dramedy which cleverly captures the true essence of Christmas,” and has found a home on multiple television networks around the world annually as a favored Christmas film during the holiday season!
In addition to Hammond’s studio career, he has continued to take his special brand of gospel to audiences around the world, performing an average of 30 weeks per year. Hammond has headlined thousands of concert dates with an average audience attendance of over 5,000, in addition to television appearances on the nationally syndicated Stellar Awards, Lou Rawls Parade of Stars, BET’s Celebration of Gospel, BET’s Walk of Fame, N.A.A.C.P.’s A Tribute to Stevie Wonder, 106 & Park and TBN’s highly-rated shows The Pat Boone Show, Praise The Lord, and The 700 Club. Hammond continues to find touring success year after year and shows no signs of slowing down, recently wrapping the highly successful, annual 50+ city FESTIVAL OF PRAISE TOUR, which he headlined along with Donnie McClurkin, Hezekiah Walker, Israel Houghton, and Kim Burrell. In 1997, he shared the stage with Kirk Franklin & Yolanda Adams performing before more than 500,000 people on The Tour of Life, the most successful tour in gospel music history! He also served as the Creative Director and Featured Artist on Walt ”Baby” Love’s Power 98, ALW’s The Living Proof and ALW’s The Shout 2000 Tours just to name a few.
Hammond continues to take the entertainment industry by storm! He co-wrote and directing the smash hit musical drama ”Been There, Done That” with America’s favorite TV Judge, Greg Mathis. As for Hammond’s acting career, this production merely rekindled the fire! In addition to his work on the hit plays ”Only The Strong” and the 2013 Broadway smash ”Cain and Abel” with JD Lawrence, Hammond has debuted in several Daimler-Chrysler commercials as well.
Among his multiple entrepreneurial successes, Hammond also launched the Urban Entertainment Company fHammond Family Entertainment, Inc. providing a complete portfolio of integrated entertainment services collectively addressing the exclusive needs of the urban family market with core offerings including: A film division releasing direct to-DVD titles; a music and book publishing division; an online multi-media website including radio programming and streaming video content; theatrical presentations; as well as continued perpetual music production from new and established artists.
In January 2014, the 55-year-old Detroit native’s faith was tested in a profoundly personal way: He underwent an excruciating double knee replacement surgery – the same procedure that claimed the life of his biological dad in the early ’90s – and as a result was unable to walk. Forced for months to rely on family members, friends and sometimes total strangers to get around – the experience was almost too much for the staunchly, self-reliant singer, who found it to be both excruciatingly painful and humiliating at times.
To cope during this dark, soul-searching period, the father of two leaned heavily on the Word and of course his beloved music, the result of which is I Will Trust, arguably the most intimate album of Hammond’s more than three decade-long career. A stunningly honest collection of songs balanced equally between stomp-worthy praise reports and deep, in-the-valley ballads, Hammond gathers his best and brightest – including go-to producers (and MD) Calvin Rodgers and Phillip Feaster- to deliver this powerfully transformative musical sermon. Hammond’s latest venture is nothing short of sheer excellence! WORSHIP JOURNAL LIVE debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Gospel Albums chart in October of 2016. This is Hammond’s first live recording in 17 years and is filled with the dynamic ministry and acclaimed live musicianship that has made him one of gospel’s most popular and influential artists over the past 30 years. Hammond never ceases to amaze as he consistently exceeds the bounds of mediocrity!
Additional Manpower Artists:
James Fortune
The son of a preacher, James Fortune is a Houston-bred, singer, songwriter and producer. Called to music ministry as a child, the idea of a record label, worldwide travel, an abundance of accolades and two Grammy-nominations were the least of his early thoughts and aspirations.
James Fortune's current release, Dear Future Me, intertwines trust with the act of forgiving self, and realizing that your future will flourish with God’s grace. The project encourages healing and is a reflective journey that Fortune deems as one of his most transparent and honest records, thus far.
MEGAYOUTH/FIRECODE
Brianna Babineaux
Bri is a social media phenomenon. Over a year ago, a friend of Bri posted a camera phone video of her heartfelt, acappella rendition of Tonex’s Make Me Over on YouTube, and the video went viral instantly. The video has garnered over a million hits, making Bri one of the most buzzed about new artists in the Gospel Music world. Shortly after acquiring all of the buzz, she received numerous record deals and, after much contemplation, decided to launch her career with Marquis Boone Enterprises, which soon became a partnership with Tyscot Records. Her dramatic vocalizing has earned her fans such as Rihanna, Drake and Brandy, all of whom follow her on Instagram. Her first recorded single, I’ll Be The One, debuted at #1 on Billboard Magazine’s Gospel Digital sales chart last summer and now, Marquis Boone Enterprises/Tyscot Records has released her debut album, The Keys To My Heart, on March 25th which spent two consecutive weeks charting at Number 1 on several charts. Bri’s biggest desire is to continue traveling and inspiring as many people, especially young people, to trust God with their all even when it’s not easy or comfortable.
Adrion Butler
As the newest addition to SeaQ Management, Adrion Butler is elevating the music scene in urban Gospel and hip hop. His distinct sound embodies the soul of Gospel, energy of hip hop, and the spirit of youth.
Adrion grew up attending church in Midland, TX. He discovered his love for music at a very young age. Influenced by his father who serves as a music minister, Adrion’s image has evolved and his true calling has emerged. He is empowered to spread the message of God through his music. As a natural born leader, Adrion’s desire is to reach lost souls at any cost.
The talented artist believes that worship is a lifestyle, as well as a language that should be used to communicate with God. This very philosophy translates into each and every performance. Adrion has shared the stage with musical influences, including Da Truth, Jessica Reedy, Kierra Sheard, and Andy Mineo.
Niya Cotton
Niya Cotton is a singer, songwriter, and worship leader in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. Originally from Washington D.C., Niya received her Music Performance Degree from Hampton University (Hampton, VA) in 2004. Niya has worked at Warner Brothers in TV Music and performed as a background vocalist for various recording artists including Kirk Franklin, Tamela Mann, and The Winans. She released her debut album, Someday in 2008 and her sophomore album, The Dance, will be released in summer 2017. Niya currently serves as the worship leader at Trinity Church (Cedar Hill, TX) where Jim Hennesy serves as pastor. She is married to Roy Cotton II, and they are the extremely proud parents of three children: Roy ”Rocco” Cotton III, Eric Stone, and Nyla Jade. Niya desires to live the love of Jesus!
DJ Purity
Dee Johnson (aka DJ Purity) is a Dallas-based DJ and music producer. As a DJ, her primary focus is Christian hip hop. In the production role, DJ Purity’s goal is to serve as a liaison between the artist and the listener. In 2016, DJ Purity had an encounter with God that led her to start ”spinning” for the Kingdom. This encounter inspired her to seek out opportunities to minister through music with a positive message of salvation, love, and grace. The year 2017 emboldened DJ Purity to release music, specifically live mixes and remixes, while working with countless hip hop artists, including Tyrone ”Tyro the Epic” Elder, Kayla Starks, KinFolk Jack, and Fred Lynch. DJ Purity currently serves as DJ for the Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Youth Ministry – Next Level – located in Dallas, TX.
DESTINY WORLD
Jor'Dan Armstrong
Jor’Dan Armstrong is an outstanding vocalist and percussionist. He began showcasing his passion for music at the age of 5. A talented producer with a zeal for his craft, Armstrong’s music transcends the traditional approach to Gospel music, offering a fresh perspective to many who have not been interested in the genre before. With a heavy influence from 90s R&B and hip hop, Armstrong’s favorites stem from artists, including Brandy, Prince, and Usher. He embarked on his musical journey when he began producing for Hamilton Park, Netta Brielle, and Adrian Marcel. After honing his craft, he then began to produce for bigger names like Tyrese Gibson, Johnny Gill, and Keith Sweat. Jesus Christ has always remained a constant theme throughout his work. In 2015, Armstrong released his last studio album, 52 Weeks of Summer and has become a triple threat upon making his acting debut in PureFlix’s God’s Not Dead 2, which premiered in spring 2016.
Izze
IZZE is a new type of artist. His soulfully eclectic, ”rockstar” energy radiates during every performance. Attending any of IZZE’s shows is certainly an immersive experience. From the acoustic set to the hip hop infused lyricism, IZZE knows how to put on an unforgettable show! The Atlanta, Georgia native is the newest signee to RCA Inspiration. He has written songs for countless award-winning artists, including Casey J, Lecrae, and Trip Lee. He has also shared the stage with artists, including Jonathan McReynolds, Israel Houghton, Canton Jones, T.I., and Beyoncé. Currently, IZZE is in the studio, recording new music for his upcoming album. His music has been known to galvanize fans of all ages. Although his singles exude a commercial, urban appeal, his records garner global fans from just about every musical genre. Today, IZZE is definitely one of the hottest multitalented artists to inspire people through the art of music.
Psalmist Raine
Psalmist Raine’s passion for God and her gifting of music collaborate to create a dynamic and unforgettable worship experience. Anyone who has witnessed this anointed vessel give honor to the Lord in a live setting knows that this woman isn’t about show, form, or fashion. Her sole goal is to move the heart of God. God has blessed her to share various platforms with many proclaiming God’s Word through song. She has released 3 projects: Believe Again, ReFresh Worship Live, and the newly released To Abba. She is a wife to Apostle Jalani McCaa, a mother of 3 children, and an ordained Prophetess serving at Life In Christ Family Worship Center under the leadership of Apostle Royal and Kimberly McClinton.
Todd Keene And The Power Team
The Power Team is a group of world-class athletes who have performed the world’s greatest exhibitions of power, strength, speed, inspiration, and motivation in every state and in over 60 countries for the past 40 years. The Power Team has several world record holders, former NFL football players, and professional wrestlers. In 1975, The Power Team became the ”Original” strength team, utilizing feats of strength to communicate positive messages to audiences in churches, civic centers, stadiums, and coliseums all over the world. They have been featured in People Magazine, The Saturday Evening Post, Walker, Texas Ranger, Extreme Makeover, and other programs and publications. For over ten years, they have had their own television show, The Power Connection, and it has been viewed by millions around the world each week. The various members of The Power Team are among America’s most sought-after speakers, encouraging people to live a life of excellence and challenging them to be the best that they can be.
Remember The Giants
Shanneca Beck is no stranger to the world of finances and life coaching. After experiencing teenage pregnancy at age 15 and birthing a child with a terminal illness, she missed numerous days of work attending to her sick child in the hospital. God began to give Shanneca discipline concerning money. In spite of her circumstances, she worked her way through high school and El Centro College – Dallas. This experience created a desire to save and recycle money.
In 2009, after being married for only 15 months, she became a widow. She now faced the responsibility of raising their 6 month old and 1 year old children. To overcompensate for the absence of their father, she began investing in commercial party rental equipment in efforts to host really big parties for her children. She was laid off from AT&T after ten years of service. Soon after, the pain of trying to overcompensate at her children’s parties would soon create her paychecks.
In 2015, a party rental business was launched called Remember The Giants. Remember The Giants is a full service party rental that not only seeks to cater to children but the family as a whole. The company provides state of the art inventory which includes inflatables, games, trains, car, concessions and more. She became a certified
life coach in 2014 to enhance her audience as she has been preaching the gospel since 2002.
Remember The Giants will be a featured vendor at Mega Fest for the year of 2017 and will be responsible for contributing to the moment for the Mega Kidz segment of this great conference.
EMPOWERMENT SESSIONS
Virlinda Stanton
After having a day proclaimed after her, a street named in her honor and performing at the White House before President Barack Obama – all within one year – what more homage can become bestowed on VirLinda Stanton, this proud East Texas gal? As Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre say, wait until ”the next episode;” it’s just a matter of time before we see more greatness rise from VirLinda.
The list of 5-star performances by VirLinda from all over the country are now too numerous to count, excelling in anything and everything she’s encountered, leaving her voiceprints, fingerprints and footprints all over the country and parts of the world to be vividly remembered. Her performances include: VirLinda’s film credit included a role in ”Gallows Road”, starring Kevin Sorbo, Ernie Hudson and Grover Coulson, directed by Bill McAdams, Jr. Supporting Actress in Fred Hammonds, ”The Choir”.
