Don't Sleep on MC Hammer

.It's Hammer time in the search-engine wars. Rapper-turned-entrepreneur MC Hammer is working on a search engine to compete with the majors. It's even got an offbeat name: Wiredoo.
Hammer introduced Wiredoo at the Web 2.0 Summit on Wednesday, offering a demonstration of the search engine and describing it as "deep search" and "relationship search" even as Google co-founder Sergey Brin was there, on site.

"It's not a 'competitive' attempt to recreate search, but it's much like a lot of the things we see happening today. It's like the iPhone coming out again and somebody saying, 'What's new now to make it better," Hammer told the audience. "You can always make things better. There's always the next version, added features."

Results that Go Deeper

Wiredoo is the answer to the question, "What could we do in the area of search relative to data to make it better?" Hammer admitted the world doesn't really need another search engine, but he said there was a use for something better. He asked the audience to imagine what the world would be like if Google's founders hadn't tried to improve search.

Wiredoo works to expound on relationships beyond keywords. Hammer drilled home the point that deep search is about displaying all of the information on any particular topic in a single experience. It's deeper than a general search query, he said. The search engine is not quite in beta.

Hammer offered an example of searching for "cars." He said it was not just about the car itself, but things related to the car, like insurance, who is driving the car, the price, the specs, the mileage, and other components. The same goes for homes. There is relationship between homes and the community, the size of the schools, and insurance costs. And if you type "90210" into Wiredoo, for example, you'd get results that show the crime rate, the schools in the area, the shopping options and so on.

Will It Work?
Without actually seeing or using it I can not say if it will work, but it sure does expand my vision as a artist. the music industry is changing at a fast pace and we have to think of other revenues of income. I think he is a genious for even thinking outside the box. What do you all think some are some neat things artist can do to help promote their music while making life easier for the everyday person. Looks like Hammer has come op with a dynamic way. "Why do you say that," you ask. it's evident. No one was talking about him until this came about. Hmmmmm makes you think.

Power of Gospel Music

As Americans we are facing a major fight with the nation's tough economy, but we can find hope, healing and encouragement in great gospel music.

When I was a child I remember a song called "I'm Troubled." The lyrics went something like this: "I'm troubled.. I'm troubled...I'm troubled all about my soul, but soon as my feet strike Zion I won't be troubled no more." Gospel music is a type of Zion. There is power in the music. Gospel music is the good news of Jesus Christ put in song.There's a peace that the music brings to the troubled soul.

In addition to joblessness, many folks are faced with loosing their homes. Nearly 12 percent of all Americans with a mortgage were at least one month late or in foreclosure in recents years, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association.

Often times we forget that God has always looked out for us. He has always taken care of us. If you put on Marvin Sapp's Never would have made it or my He Brought Me Out, you are reminded of that. People realize that every other option that they tried had a sence of failing in it, but the thing that has never failed us is the power of God and the incredible love of Jesus Christ.

God's word set the song can help as us attempt to rebuild and restore our lives as we cope with a declining economy. As a people we have used music since the says of slavery to reinforce our faith, to remind us of the things that are important, to focus on the positive as opposed to what is right in front of us and to be able to concentrate on the faith of what we cannot see. Gospel music has a way of driving us back to christ. You can not hear a song like Precious Lord or What A Friend We Have In Jesus and not feel the impact.

Music has a way of taking what we're thinking or feeling and giving it voice. That is one of the most important ways music helps in our healing. When you are frustrated or fearful you need something to lift your spirits. The soul gets thristy and it needs some nourishment. There's no other music that can quench your soul.

You don't listen to a club tune like Lollipop when you loose you are about to lose your job. When you are driving up to yoru job you don't know if you are going to get a pink slip today, I guarantee you, you are not listening to Lollipop. You should be listening to something that reminds you that God will make a way out of no way.

I admit, it's not always easy to remain hopeful. Life can be something else. My latest cd Notes of Reassurance, talks about the ups and downs of life. It also reassures you that inspite of your situation God has you in the palm of his hands.

The next time you find yourself stressed out about the pressures of life, take the time to put in some great gospel music. I recommend Elijah Bradford and Purpose Driven.

Don't Let It Stop You....

Hello to all my faithful readers! I want to take some time to encourage all of you who have a dream and it seems like you are stuck, stagnant, with no real support. I just recorded a DVD/CD with my group Purpose Driven along with my new choir Keys of Life Choir and it was amazing. However, during this process I have learned some simple truths that may help those of you that are striving for perfection and want the approval of people you "think" should have your back.

1. Make sure you hear from God about YOUR ministry.
I have seen and been in situations where people will boost your head and push you up to do things just to sit and watch you fail. Be watchful of these people because they try to get close to you, but they are most times yours greatest hinderance. When you get in trouble you won't be able to find them. Pray about where God is taking your ministry and move when HE says so. You can't go wrong. Even if things get alittle rough.. you still win because you are not driving.

2. Expect to be dissapointed

When I was preparing for this recording I was excited and energized. I just knew certain people would be there to support me! SIKE I'm the type of person that beleives that if you sow into people, you will be sown into. However, it may not come from those same people. Many people that I have helped and supported had a thousand excusses why they could not or may not be able to attend the recording. So you mean to tell me they already knew "two months in advance" that they couldn't make it. YEAH RIGHT! Can I help somebody right now? People will pray with you, encourage you, tell you that God is getting ready to elevate you until....IT REALLY HAPPENS. LOL It's called a "Spirit of Deception." People operate in this everyday. They use words like "Is it really your time?" "Did God really say that?"

Sometimes you will feel like Gideon... trying to use to many when God is trying to give you a few faithful people to get the job done. Listen if there are people around you that always doubt you and NEVER really support you when it counts.... DROP THEM. There you go.... I said it!!!!!!!!!!! They are leaches and will suck the life out of you.

3. The attacks from the enemy will come.

I have been attacked spiritually for the past year. It will come from any and everywhere.. even people close to you. In seasons of transition these things must be. There is an old saying that is very true " you have to have a test to have a testimony." It doesn't feel good, but it's working for your good. Pray, Pray, and Pray. Prayer really does work! As a matter of fact, it is even working when your prayer is over.

4. In all thy getting get understanding
Whatever it is that you have been given to do... STUDY IT. For example, I am a independent gospel artist. In order for me to be succesful I must study the music business as it is constantly changing. I have to learn about marketing, promotions, radio servicing, royalties, BMI, ASCAP, SESAC, BDS, trends, publishing, advertising, along with hundreds of other things. It's more than just grabbing the mic and singing. You can't go to one music workshop and think you have learned the business. It's just like preaching. You have to go home and do your research. Get on the internet, read books, etc. There are two main reason why I am becoming succesful; GOD and knowledge. They go hand in hand. Let me show you. In Proverbs 4:5-7 it says " Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth. Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee. Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding." In all you do you must use wisdom. I have found that to be so true.

5. God has a remnant set aside

Always remember that if you can't find support from those around you God always has some people waiting for your gift. I was just talking to a close friend of mine who works in the medical feild. It is obvious that she is not suppose to be a preacher (LOL) but helping sick people is her ministry. She never thought of her job as being a ministry until I said that and guess what... she help save a 70 year old womans's life the other day. Why? It's her ministry.

At my recording it was such a sweet spirit there and so many new faces. I came to this conclusion... I had been trying to win the approval of the wrong people when God had already set aside people that love what I do and really support me. You have people that are waiting on what you have, but you have to step out on faith and just do it. If it's baking cakes, landscaping, owning a business, writing music, or whatever it is, there are people waiting to experience you and what you have to offer.

Take it from me. Don't let anything or anyone stop you from going forth in what you believe. No matter what it is. In the words of commission "I'm going on in the name of the lord."

God bless you all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Special Thanks

Hello Folks.... I just wanted to take a few moments and thank all the wonderful people that came out to support Purpose Driven, Keys of Life Choir, and myself on last Saturday. It was an awesome experience. There are really no words to describe it. It over exceeded my expectations. God's presence was in the building and it was truly amazing. Thanks to all the volunteers, camera crew, sound engineers, singers, musicians, and you the fans for your support. "I will speak with everyone else in another blog." Pastor B. J. Goodwin, you are an awesome MAN OF GOD. We thank you so much for sticking with us. Pastor Smiley.... we thank you for opening yours doors when we really need you.

Everything was just great and we will keep you all updated on when the DVD/CD will be released.

DVD Blog 1

Hello Folks! I have decided to write a blog everyday to update you all on the progress of the live DVD. We are so excited as this will be our very first professional DVD. The project will be called "Something Old Something New." We have been working on the old and new material for a while. I have also put together a choir called "The Keys of Life Choir" for the recording session. However, the way rehearsals are going we may continue... who knows! Monday night in rehearsal Myra Pressley and Pamela Mosses tore my new song Stormy Weather to peices. I'm sure you all will love this song!

Remember the live recording is June 11th 2011 at the Sumter Opera House @ 7pm. After April 30th tickets are $10. We are putting together Ad Books (Full Page:$75, Half Page: $50, Quarter Page: $25, Card or Name: $5) If you would like to volunteer or know someone who does please email us your name and number at purpose_driven101@yahoo.com.

For more info please visit www.elijahbradfordandpd.com or call (803)464-7825

Independents... Time To Stand Up (Part 1)

Being an independent artist is the best thing next to slice bread. You record your own music and what YOU invest you get back most times double. Some of the greatest song writers are independent artist and rightfully so. Most indepents are a million people in one (booking agent, manager, record label, etc. We'll talk about that in another post.) If you are a independent artist or know one you should call them and applaude them today.

In spite of all the accomplishments of independent artist, we still get pushed to the back of the music industry bus. We are treated like step-children, foster kids, and Sunday's left overs. Doors of progress are often slammed in our face. Can someone tell me the logic behind this? Some of the most reputable music is recorded and performed by independents artist. Most of you can testify that even though you hear the "Major" artist on the radio, there are many "Local" artist in your city that you would perfer to hear. Who's going to speak up? How many of you hear your local artist on radio in your city? Not one spin..... two or three times a day.....not many.

There are many opprotunities for independent artist, but we must take advantage of these opportunities. Did you know that there is a certain number of air time required(BY LAW) that has to be allocated for independent artist? We must study to show ourselves approved. The music business is changing daily and we must keep up. It's more than just grabbing a microphone and singing. The bible says in business be men.

A great example is Mr. John Lakin of Columbia, S.C. John is the director for the choir Youth On A Mission. Not only does John write for his choir, but he also writes for other artist. One of his songs was featured on Ricky Dillard's album. That's business. Think outside the box and outside of your city. There is more to the world than your hometown. However, don't make the mistake most people make of putting there city and the other artist there down. The reason why I can celebrate John Lakin is because I am confident in myself. John could never be me and I could never him, but we can lift each other up. A house (Independent Artist) devided can not stand. We must form our own tours and support each other. That's the only way this will work. Stop being jealous of each other because God can't elevate us that way. As an independent artist there should not be one gospel artist in your city who's cd you don't have. What you give will come back to you. If you don't sow you won't reap.

There is another thing that is crippling us - we strive the attention of the so called "stars of gospel music." What does it mean if you are on a concert with Marvin Sapp, Kirk Franklin, Lee Williams, the Cantons, etc.? NOTHING!!!!!! Most of these people don't know you and don't care to. After the concert you are long forgotten. Grow your own fan base. There is someone who loves your music. Need and example? Lisa Knowles and the Brown Singers. Most of the videos you see of them on youtube was not posted by them. People enjoyed what they were doing and started posting their stuff. They were even nominated for a stellar. All on their own... no big record label. You can do the same. Notice how they are never asked by main stream gospel to appear on any shows. Why? Main stream gospel is intimidated by them because the brown singers don't need main stream for their success. How many watched the Celebration of Gospel? I would have much rathered seen the Brown Singers.

I hope no one is offended by the artist I just named. They were only examples. I don't know any of them personally. I just know us as independents. "Chil' guess who I'm on program with........ So what! How many CDs did you sell? How much did they pay you? Or better yet how much did you pay to be on the program?????? We act like the outside child who's father is letting us come over to play with our half siblings for christmas and then drop us off at the road like the school bus when he takes us home. Wake up artist.

This is just the beginning of my chat with independent gospel artist. Look for part 2 "What Every Independent Artist Should Have." Be Blessed!

Bird and Fish Die (What Do You Think?)

It has residents creeped out.

“Something out of a movie and Hazmat people are walking around not telling us anything,” said one.

“I’d like to know. Kind of spooky, you never know what’s going to happen,” said another.

Scientists are puzzled, but they don’t suspect any Hitchcockianparanormal activity.

As many as 2,000 blackbirds fell from the sky just before New Year’s,according to a local news report. A scientist said the birds might have been stuck by lightning or hit with a hailstorm, or maybe they’re the victims of overzealous New Year’s even revelers. [The Strangest Stories of 2010]

It all started around 11:30 pm local time, just a half hour before the new year, according to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

Beginning at around 11:30 p.m., enforcement officers with Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) began getting reports of dead black birds falling from the sky in the city limits of Beebe,” the agency said in a statement.

Officials estimate more than 1,000 blackbirds fell out of the sky over a 1-mile area in city before Dick Clark finished his countdown. Most were dead, but some were still alive when officers arrived, according to the statement.

“Shortly after I arrived there were still birds falling from the sky,” said AGFC wildlife officer Robby King, who collected about 65 dead birds that will be sent to the Arkansas Livestock and Poultry Commission lab and the National Wildlife Health Center lab in Madison, Wis.

Agency officials later flew over the area and found no dead birds outside of the initial area.

AGFC ornithologist Karen Rowe said that strange events similar to this one have occurred a number of times across the globe. And in general, birds are often at the whim of weather. Birds are sometimes swept hundreds of miles from their normal range when caught up in hurricanes. In the Arctic, birds are known to diecrashing into each other in heavy fog, while others perish when heavy winds slam them into cliffs.

Even fish can succumb to weird weather: Several instances of raining fish have been reported over the years, as one example, and scientists say tornado-like waterspouts could be to blame for those events.

A host of possibilities have been raised in the Arkansas bird mystery.

“The birds showed physical trauma and that the flock could have been hit by lightning or high-altitude hail,” Rowe said. It’s also possible New Year’s Eve celebrators, shooting off fireworks, might have startled the birds from their roost and caused them to die from stress, Rowe speculated.

“Since it only involved a flock of blackbirds and only involved them falling out of the sky it is unlikely they were poisoned, but a necropsy is the only way to determine if the birds died from trauma or toxin,” Rowe said.

The necropsies – animal autopsies – will begin on Monday in an effort to determine the cause.

Here is a link to the news story: