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JAMES HALL & WORSHIP AND PRAISE
To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever - Ps 30:12. This echoes the sentiment of one whose heart embraces the writing and directing of melodic music that sets forth the gospel of Jesus Christ through masterful psalm ship. I speak of Brooklyn's own, world renowned artist and minister of music... the Duke of Gospel, Mr. James Hall.

Hall is the skillful singer, director, and composer among those often talked about. He has worked with the world's top artists: Gladys Knight, Mary J. Blige, Michael Bolton, Cyndi Lauper, Yolanda Adams, Kirk Franklin, Donnie McClurkin, and others.

He is most known for the killer vibratos and twister harmonies found in the best of today's gospel music. Its no wonder choirs all across the nation duplicate his music. It's loved as a 21st century antidote for Church-Tradition-Transcended. Music with a James Hall appeal is music that has a stay true Anointing that drives the discouraged listener to an immediate place of encouragement with just one chorus.

Startling is the cacophony of spiritual entwinement found in every CD he's ever written. Consider James Hall and Worship and Praise. Anyone in possession of their CDs can attest to the fact that Hall is an unmatched talent. Moreover, the latest evidence is found in his new project, No Joy No Strength by James Hall and the Voices of Citadel, a CD that further declares Hall as a unique musician. Not one can package his style. Clearly when he brings his skill to a choir or ensemble we can anticipate an inevitable scream manic explosion to take place that aims to the highest degree of intensity - singing with the high beams on - PITCH pleasing hallelujah - if you will.

Who is James Hall? James is a native of Brooklyn, NY, the youngest of seven children, born and raised by his mother the Late Lula Mae Hall. Lula Mae Hall was the first to nurture his keen musical talent as a singer and musician who learned to play piano by ear. She enrolled him in classical training at the age of five and encouraged his singing voice which projected a striking soprano range. She loved putting him up to sing solos at numerous church programs, which earned him the title of Master James Hall.

Sadly Ms. Hall passed away when James was 12 years old, but she continues to live in the honor of his gospel successes, all of which are credited to her. 'Having grown up in the projects, I could have gone so many different ways. Most of my friends got caught up in a lot of negative stuff, but I decided to stay in church and stick with God. The reverence of my mother is the reason I am where I am today.'

James attended James Madison High School, the place where destiny was sealed and opportunity was plentiful. He was appointed director of the James Madison Gospel Chorus (JMGC) and utilized the challenge to pursue what he'd been feeling for so long, a desire to direct a large choir. The moment he lifted his hands to conduct, he was blessed with the natural ability to perform. It was like second nature. This experience helped him finally realize he was living his dream.