May 2003 Newsletter
Good Music, Good Coffee, Good Company
March & April Highlights –
For those of you who did not receive our last newsletter, we decided to combine both March and April. We apologize if it’s a bit redundant.
March
March was our one-year anniversary show. People packed Studio A at the Ford Center to listen to some good music and to help us celebrate a terrific year.We thought it would be neat to introduce the people that make up our 4thFridays crew – the behind-the-scenes people. People who made our first 12 shows possible. From the sound guy to the admissions person, it takes dedicated people to put these shows together. And we thank God for them. These are the people who work diligently behind the scenes doing the not so glamorous and at times – down right grueling work. They make 4thFridays happen every month. They are:
Mildred Sheats - hospitality/admissions; Marvin Sheats – production; Lawrence Strong – our Coffee Service Provider; Mike Brewer – lighting; Naylo Asheber – lighting; Rod Sledge – sound; Paul Kelley – tear down; Dougie Johnson – Set-up/tear and down.We brought all of these folks on stage to thank them for all they do for us. Afterwards we showed a five-minute video presentation of all of the guests who have performed at 4thFridays over the past year. It was exciting to see how many had come to share their art and The Message with us. We’re looking forward to another terrific year.
Next was Zamar – We were happy to welcome these guys back to our stage for the second time. It’s always a treat to hear them perform live. Their level of skill with their instruments coupled with their sincere desire to glorify God was demonstrated in every song. The highlight of their set was when they performed a beautiful and moving rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner. The crowd cheered afterwards and they received a standing ovation. Wow! Needless to say, we’re looking forward to another show with Zamar. Their new project is soon to be released. We’ll keep you posted!
April was another great show. For those of you who missed it, here’s a recap: We were moved by the Sounds of Imani – a very talented group. It was nice to hear Contemporary Gospel – a style we’ve never featured at 4thFridays. This husband and wife team bought their band and delivered a high-energy performance with lush vocals and funky rhythms. Every song had an intense groove with a straight up gospel message. They have a sincere heart and tremendous talent. We hope to have them back and hear more Sounds of Imani this Fall.
The Poet’s Corner – In March and in April, Tracy Price – a new face to the 4thFridays stage – delivered outstanding readings from Billy Graham’s book – Hope for Each Day. One of the readings discussed how an artist uses light and shadow in a painting to reveal its beauty and character. And how in the same way God uses light and shadows in our lives to create a masterpiece. The other reading focused on the necessity of sacrifice and discipline if we are to be faithful servants of Christ. The readings were powerful and Tracy’s delivery – passionate.
Here’s a look at what’s coming up on May 23rd
rufus harris – Of course what would 4thFridays be without our fabulous house band. Audiences can always look forward to some good music with rufus harris. Many of you have been asking “when will the new album be released?” The answer is – not long now. All the new songs have been recorded and are in the final stages. Look for a special invitation to the release party this summer.
Comedian Darryl Earl will lighten up the night with fun. A frequent performer at The Upper Room in Detroit. Earl’s comedy mixes the funny things of everyday life with the Christian message. And our special musical guest will be the Alternative band Trip the Light Fantastic. TTLF will share music that captures and compels, with lyrics born out of everyday life. Their songs are provocative, inspiring, and honest. Their goals are simple: to reflect and serve the Creator; to live life and write music that affects others for good; to reveal Christ in their words and actions. As TTLF is discovering, it’s not the destination, but the journey. Check them out on Friday and find out where they get their name.
Montescotti – Another perfect companion to 4thFridays coffee. Our good friend Monte Bertram came up with the idea of offering biscotti – an Italian pastry - to our 4thFridays audience. Now, we won’t be offering this every month, so now’s your chance to try this delicious coffee-dunking treat. And remember It's not just biscotti. It's “Montescotti!” This promises to be another great show you don’t want to miss!.
Something to Think About Undercover Christians? In the Scriptures followers of the Lord Jesus are called light and salt. Believers are instructed to not be ashamed of their Lord, to share the Gospel, to love their enemies, etc. How do we fulfill this today? Do we fulfill this today? Let me know what you think. rharris@ameritech.net
4thFridays is held in Studio A at: The Ford Community & Performing Arts Ctr. 15801 Michigan Ave. in Dearborn between Southfield & Greenfield Rds.Admission: $10 Info: 248-886-0881 bridgerecords@ameritech.net
