Xist Music and The UpLift! Group teamed up with Pastor Chris Durso, author of the bestseller “MISFIT: Dealing With Our God-Given Discomfort”, to organize the MISFIT Tour 2011. On November 5th Philadelphia welcomed The MisFits, who collectively delivered an amazing show, exceeding the expectations of many, if not all that were in attendance. The concert combined the power of praise with super bass, and then topped it off with great ministry.
Also within the group are R&B/Soul Phenomenon, Mali Music, who recently signed to Akon’s Konvict Muzik Label, Christian Hip-Hop Artist and President of Xist Music, Sean Simmonds, Powerful Spoken-Word Artist, Oraia, Alternative Pop/Gospel Artist, Fred Washington and the visionary behind the MisFit Tour 2011, Pastor Chris Durso.
Although the title “MisFits” may raise eyebrows, their activities weren’t limited to just performing. At each venue volunteer work and service projects were carried out by the artists with community members to demonstrate the positivity of being a MisFit. On this particular day the MisFits assisted with feeding the homeless in Philadelphia. Which proves one should never judge a book by its cover.
The show began with performances by three finalists of The MisFit Search, a contest where fans compete for the chance to open at the next major MisFit concert. After the performances, the judges deliberated and announced Iz Real Ent, a group of guys from Maryland, as the winners. Congratulations to Iz Real Ent, they deserved it!
Radio Personality for Philly’s Praise 103.9, B.I.G. City, took the stage to host as the pre-show got underway. As most radio personalities are known to do, B.I.G. City kept the crowd laughing and added to the enjoyment of the show.
The pre-show featured electrifying performances and ministry from an array of high-energy, talented individuals including the beautiful Michelle Bonilla. She blew the crowd away with her choreography and an acoustic version of “He Wants It All”. Other pre-show performers included Deuce B & Doc Hero, Han Soul and Prayz1, a Philadelphia native and front man for The Underdogz.
Fred Washington opened the main show with a performance of his new single, “We Are The City”. The explosive, high-energy he gave during his set was reciprocated by the crowd, who gave him the same energy in return. The former Worship Minister ended his performance with the same energy he began with, as the crowd was literally jumping up and down in the packed venue. Next was Sean Simmon
Next, the crowd was treated to a pleasant surprise. Spoken-Word Artist, Oraia came to the stage and delivered a powerful, inspiring poem. Her lyrical capability blew me away as I was hooked on every word that came out her mouth! She definitely held her ground as the only Spoken-Word Artist performing at the concert.
Then, The Ambassador took the stage and began to minister to the audience, who received his Word with open ears. The first song he performed was a fan-favorite from his first album, and then he proceeded to perform new material from Stop The Funeral. His set was full of heavy bass, high-energy songs, and a lot of call-and-response interaction with the audience, who loved every minute of it. His charisma throughout the performance was amazing as he had full control of the stage and audience.
The Ambassador proved he is a veteran at what he does with his overall stage presence. During his time on stage, he also premiered his new dance called “The Bring Him Out”. Before leaving, he gave a shout out to his beautiful family who were in attendance. Afterwards, Oraia returned to the stage and delivered another powerful poem, much to the delight of the audience.
Next up was Da’ TRUTH, who gave the performance of a lifetime! He started his set with “God Is Good” off his new album, The Whole Truth. He brought his songs to life with his animated movement and facial expressions during his performance. Between songs he ministered to the audience and explained the messages within each song.
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Mali Music, who worked the soundboards during Da’ TRUTH’s and The Ambassador’s performances, started his official set with “Gimme That”. Mali, a fan favorite on the tour, ministered between songs and explained where he is in his life right now. He mentioned the premiere of his video for “Job Experience” on BET’s 106 and Park, before he performed the actual song, which his fans knew word for word.
He also explained the time is now to support this movement because “they” (mainstream) see “us” (Christian Hip-Hop Artists). Mali announced his upcoming album, Mali Is, is set for release at the top of 2012. He ended the show with an unreleased song, and was surprised that his fans already knew the words, followed by a worship song that took the concert to another level.
Finally, to put the icing on the cake of a flawless show, MisFit Tour 2011 Visionary, Chris Durso delivered a powerful message to the audience. He ministered about the importance of believing in what you worship, and not faking for those watching. Overall, I give the show an A+. I laughed, I worshipped, I danced, I praised, I completely enjoyed myself all in the name of Christ!
Check Out Photos Below:
Photos Courtesy of Nameless Photography
For More Photos Visit: www.wtuwonline.com
Lutonya M Lang
November 8, 2011 at 5:44 PM
Love us some Mike Jones he know he can tell a story. We feel like we were there too. Mike keep #BuzzZinOFF
Mike Jones
November 9, 2011 at 3:05 PM
Thanks so much! That was my goal in writing the article! I appreciate you showing love!