Carl, who has been living gospel music for over 40 years, states “Since I was child I dreamed of being a songwriter and recording artist. I now have an opportunity to partner with some of Detroit’s top gospel singers and musicians to make my dream a reality. The music for this recording is the soundtrack of my life, sharing my pain, healing, loss, recovery, victories, and hope”.
A songwriter, producer, and recording artist, Carl has written songs recorded by gospel artists Deitrick Haddon and Esther Smith. The formative years Carl spent participating as a member of Cass Technical High School Gospel Choir, and the Donald Vail’s Voices of Deliverance. Currently he is the National Minister of Music of the Pentecostal Assembly of Believers and he has been serving as a Choir Director for Greater Christ Temple Church, since 1976, where he is also the Minister of Music.
Produced by Carl B. Phillips and The Stuntmen Brandon Holland and Byron Stanfield, the featured vocalists include: Carl B. Phillips, Stephen Anderson, Eric Deon, Lena Starks, James Murray, La’Jimmease Jones, Eric Taylor, Briana Donaldson, Chiffon McNeal, Kimberly Whitsett, Alisha Turner and Larry Duren.
TRACK LISTING:
RESTORE MORE – Featuring the soulful, passionate, vocals of gospel recording artist, Stephen Anderson, this infused groove track, glistens with live horns and background vocals arranged by Atlanta producer Ernest J. Lee, based on the biblical story of Job, with a reminder that “the latter shall be greater than the beginning”
I SURVIVED IT – This Rock Reggae Anthem features the impeccable vocals of Angelique Starks (from the Dove nominated Temple Of Deliverance Women’s Choir) and spoken word by Carl B. Phillips. From the opening guitar, to the survivors chant, to the last note this track will have all survivors saying, “now shall my head be lifted above my enemies – I Survived It!!!”
FRESH ANOINTING – Eric “Bishop” Taylor (from the Blessed And Cursed Movie Soundtrack) takes this gospel ballad and permeates it with the passion of aSunday morning preacher and flawless vocals that will have listeners wanting the spirit to fall.
I KNOW WHAT GOD DID LAST SUMMER – Rising gospel vocalist Chiffon McNeal, brings her charming vocals to this laid back ballad (featuring background vocal arrangements by Detroit producer, Michael J. Mindingall) that builds to a musical crescendo while reminding listeners, “if God could do it last summer, he can do it again.”
PROVE ME – Kimberly Whitsett (vocalist with the recording group The Michael Fletcher Chorale) brings rhythmic soul, similar to that of the legendary Ann Nesby, to this Gospel Skate friendly song, encouraging the listener to “Prove God and see if he will not open the widows and pour you out a blessing you won’t have room to receive”
GREAT RAIN – Recording artist and Music Pastor James Murray delivers a soul stirring delivery of the title cut “Great Rain”. Showing influences of Marvin Winans and the Clark Sisters, James 1st tenor voice floats over this groove laden selection with ease as his voice mimics the sound of rain’s “drip drop”.
GOD DWELLS IN PRAISE – Carl introduces his niece, Briana Donaldson, as she debuts on this project ushering in the presence of God with her majestic vocals. As a next generation Detroit gospel artist Briana’s transports listeners from earth to Heaven with ease.
A SIMPLE PRAISE – Larry Duren, from the R&B Group LNEM, and the Superman of Gospel, Eric “Deon” Taylor, combine their vocal talents to create an awe-inspiring duet as they express their desire though song to let God know “I offer you a simple praise”.
MEETING IN THE AIR – Carl B. Phillips takes over the lead on this hand clapping, foot stomping, quartet-influenced song. Inspired by the words of an elderly church mother, the listener will be reminded of the hope beyond this world.
STATISTICS – Using her wondrous instrument of thrilling power and enormous dexterity, La’Jimmease Jones, steps to the microphone and speaks life through song. Based on the biblical story of the “Dry Bones”, listeners will realize, “statistics don’t matter when God says live”
IT DON’T MATTER (BUMP) – To close out the recording, Carl launches into a sermonette about a young lady who was told she wouldn’t be successful, but the young lady stated statistics don’t matter. This powerful selection will inspire listeners to dream again.