Stephen John: Press/Reviews

The Launch of In Your Presence – Stephen John Junior’s debut album

The air was resonant with destiny fulfilled.

Eight years after conquering the competition at the Local Full Gospel Song Festival in 1998, Stephen John Jnr’s debut worship album, In Your Presence, was launched at Arouca Revival Tabernacle (ART), Forde Street, Arouca on Saturday July 8, 2006. ART is John’s home church, under the covering of Reverend Dr. Raymond Boca.

The theme of the night’s proceedings emerged as the evolution of a music ministry, rather than the typical concert ‘lime’. The performances were punctuated by ‘Reflections’: video clips of John’s family, friends and closest advisors on the musical project, who shared their take on John’s metamorphosis to the level of full-fledged music minister. The testimonials, filmed and edited by Deyna Diaz, helped put a personal touch on the event.

Wife Marisha, who is also a back-up singer on the project, laughingly told about the first time she saw her husband worship-leading. Mark Romero of Tehilla Studios, album producer, enthused about John’s talent and spiritual commitment. Other participants included John’s mother and father, Jennifer Wears-De Four and Stephen John Snr; twin sisters Jessica and Jacinth; his voice coach, Lenore Syder and Reverend Boca, who described John as, “An instrument, determined, focused… a psalmist.”

John gave back in kind to his closest supporters on the project, presenting key players in his life and ministry with tokens of appreciation. Those he honoured included John’s family, Romero and other musical supporters, as well as Reverend Angela Williams, a representative from Sacha Cosmetics, and Jerome and Emelda Keizer, the first to give financially to John’s ministry.

On a stage draped with white cotton, ivy garlands and icicle lights, John and his back-up team belted out seven songs – four of which are on the 12-song album – dressed in white outfits with khaki accents, designed by the late Lori De Jesus. The night started off right with “Come Let Us Go [To the Father’s House]”. Melissa Diaz, one of John’s back-ups whom he described as ‘up and coming’ in the gospel music industry, wowed listeners with her vocal range while singing “Wonderful”. “Call My Name”, which was accompanied by a dance choreographed and performed by John’s twin sisters, was another worshipful ballad that drew attention.

With “1 Peter 1:18 & 19”, John really let loose vocally and physically, being absorbed into the power of the song, before going into the deep worship of the title track, “In Your Presence”. During his final selection “Broken”, John did an altar call, saying, “I would have failed in my duty as a believer [in Jesus Christ] if I didn’t do this.” He invited Reverend Boca to pray for those who were not Christians and those who had left the Christian faith.

J. Errol Lewis was present as one of two select supporting ministers for John and his team, doing his usual high-energy performance while singing favourites like “Trading My Sorrow”. Musician and comedian Earl Phillips, who was the only other performer for the night, was in his element, leaving the audience in stitches with his quick-witted routine.

Fun in the Son indeed!
TAMARA LIGHTBOURNE, Observer writer
Monday, March 25, 2002

Prodigal Son

THE inaugural Fun In The Sun gospel concert concluded over the weekend in Ocho Rios with testimony in song and the spoken word from leading performers and speakers. Yesterday's Sunday Brunch at the Spanish Retreat had Ziggy Soul and the Emmanuel Concert Choir entertaining.

According to general manager of events and special projects at the Jamaica Tourist Board, Frances Yeo, the show, spread over three weekends, was a success: "We are already promoting next year's events and we all look forward to bigger and better things," Yeo said.

Highlights of the final weekend included Friday evening's Street Jam at the Clock Tower Speakers Corner and was attended by thousands. It opened with Shelly-Ann Watson, a promising gospel singer who capably set the mood for the evening. She ministered with songs such as Be Magnified and Ordinary Servant which captivated the large audience.

Carlene Davis, backed by the group Forgiven had the crowd dancing and shouting as she belted out We Give You All The Glory, Precious Lord, This Island Needs Jesus and My Forever Friend among others. She gave a spirited delivery, moving and jumping in rhythm to the music and involved her audience with every rendition.

The evening closed with the inspirational and refined singing of Estlyn Orr from Trinidad and Tobago. She kept the audience in the mood and they responded enthusiastically to her powerful sermon.

Later, the final round of the gospel concert took place at the Ocho Rios Bay Beach. It started off with Trinidadian singer, Stephen John Jr, who did wonderful original renditions of In Your Presence, Leaving It All Behind and Look What. Although he was new to many, his songs were well received.

Next was the unique voice of Mr Gallimore, who, with in his simple style performed What's Going On, Tink Seh Mi Sick and Lukewarm.

Moses was an undeniable crowd favourite as the second he got on stage, the younger members of the audience rushed to the front. His ministry was awesome as he did Big Him Up, Big Man and Buju Banton's rendition of The Lord's Prayer. There were screams and many clamoured for more. Moses' rich voice filled the area and, decked in his royal cream suit, he came across wonderfully.

It was time for the act of the evening, Prodigal Son - who with his team of back-up singers rocked the 'Beach'. His deejaying stirred the young, many of whom danced and sang along with him. When he exited the stage, the audience chanted "Prodigal! Prodigal"! He returned to do Don't Cry For Me, Woe, Radikal Style and I Wish which was exactly what the crowd wanted to hear.

Their faces painted white and completed by white gloves and black suits, mime duo, K and K appeared on stage and gave a breathtaking performance. Doing Donnie McClurkin's version of We Fall Down, their bodies moved in sync to the song; they had no reason to say anything as their movements said it all. They went on to do That's Love and What Do You Do, moving gracefully across the stage. They received roaring applause.

Newcomers David Osmond and his son David Jr were well appreciated, especially when they performed Daddy, Oh Daddy; Florida-based Obadiah Morant, decked in silver and black with silver earrings and rings on his face and fingers, certainly stood out. He spoke of his life since becoming a Christian and as soon as he started singing, screams could be heard from his young fans who likened his sound to pop mega-stars, The Backstreet Boys.

The dynamic Grace Thrillers outdid themselves as they glorified God in songs such as Majesty, We Come Here To Praise The Lord and a medley of choruses including What A Mighty God We Serve, Better Days Are Coming, Some Sweet Day andWalk Those Streets Of Glory .

Other groups who performed were Love Circle out of Trinidad and Tobago and Christafari whose locks flashed back and forth as he performed Christafari, Come Along With Me and Words Of Power. He recalled Moses, Prodigal and Mr Gallimore to the stage and the combination sent the crowd into a frenzy.

Joan Flemmings was also dramatic, kicking off her shoes to move to Dreams To Remember, Rock Of Ages, Jesus Name So Sweet, Sirene and Walk Holy.

The closing act of the evening was Stitchie who walked on stage reading from the scripture. He then went into his act jumping and moving hysterically as he did Fast And Pray, Tell Mi Now, Call Pon 'Im, I Will Do Them No More and Grocery Shopping. Though his lyrics were humorous at times, his was a serious message and brought the curtains down on an evening of quality performances.

John: a refreshing voice out of Gospelfest 2007

GospelFest 2007 held over the last week was a treasure chest of regional and local talent. One act that caught the eye of Groove was singer Stephen John who hails from Trinidad and Tobago.
John, 29, took control of his audience when he appeared at the British American Sunset Concert at the Jackie Opel Amphitheatre.
His singing style is smooth; cut in the ballad mould with a hint of rhythm an blues- quite a refreshing option to the guttural and ubiquitous dancehall genre.
His lyrics are clear and keeps on the Christian message. Singing from the age of 10, John is currently pushing his 12-song CD and video In your Presence.
(JS)

Local Gospel singer put on a stellar performance at the recently held Praise for a Cause Concert featuring US gospel award winning singer Helen Baylor at the Church on the Rock. Stephen took the audience on a journey that created an atmosphere of worship and praise. With excellent support from his band, he performed covers of “Awesome God” and the ever popular “Victory Chant”. Stephen’s performance of his original work was even more enticing. As he effortlessly, yet gracefully worked his contemporary jazz piece “1Peter 1:18-19” he had the thousands in attendance clapping, tapping and snapping their fingers to the sweet melody of this song.
Stephen showed his versatility while performing the well known “Victory Chant” in the Caribbean genre Zouk. The packed auditorium willingly autonomously rose to their feet to join in the refrain. Stephen is not all good music however. He took time to share a part of his life’s history, sharing that through Gods’ grace he was not consumed.
Stephen ended his set with his hit song “In Your Presence”. The crowd both indoors and outdoors viewing via big screen all sang and raised their hands identifying with the message of the song.

THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
(an excerpt)

Award winning Gospel singer/songwriter Stephen John has proven that good things come to those who wait with the release of his debut album, In Your Pesence.

John, 28, a former Cott Best Gospel Performer award winner, has put together a quality collection of original praise and worship music that is an absolute must-have for the Christian household.

The listener is given an all-access pass into John's childhood and personal relationship with his God on the 11-track album, which was produced and arranged by Mak Romero of Tehilla studios in Arima.

"I find solace in encouraging people to find solace in Christ," the lanky singer said with a wide smile during a resent interview.

"This album is one that everyone could sit down and enjoy, even non-Christians. For me it is about presenting Christ in a way in with which people could identify."

John, a former winner of the Local Full Gospel Song competition, has travelled extensively throughout the region having taken his sound to Antigua, Bahamas, Curacao, Jamaica, as well as parts of the US. He took some time in meeting the demand of gospel fans for a full album.

The dedicated husband and father of three, however, said he always wanted to take his time crafting his album and despite the pressure never rushed the project, which was started in earnest in 2003...

Despite a special guest appearance by his pastor Rev Dr Raymond Boca on the track "Fall On Me" and details about his personal relationship with his God on the title track "In Your Presence" and the award winning "Leaving It All Behind", however, he maintains the album is not preachy...

"The principles I use flow through what I believe and the music is a medium to share how the Gospel has affected my life," he animatedly explained...

He identified US singers Fred Hammond and Stevie Wonder among his musical influences but said gospel singer Larnelle Harris is his all time fovourite.

John says he has so much people, including family, friends and sponsors to be thankful to for helping him to produce his first album...

BARBADOS – a review…
August 20 - 27, 2006


Stephen John’s brief stint in Barbados, sharing the music of his debut Cd album “In Your Presence”, was a tremendous success.

He did more whetting of the appetites of the people with his soothing songs of praise and worship than wetting of his feet at their beautiful beaches.

John enjoyed great reception by the congregations of the several churches visited across the island including the parishes of Christ Church and St. John. He also had the opportunity to minister to and exhort over one hundred young persons at the popular People’s Cathedral in St. Michael.

In addition to opening for a Gospel Concert featuring DJ Nicholas of Jamaica, Stephen was interviewed live on Gospel Radio 790 a.m. by announcer Graham Vaughn on his Saturday morning programme.

Indeed many folks were impressed and blessed by the vocals, music and ministry of this talented and powerful young man who definitely intends to return to the island in the near future.


In Your Presence is currently available at:

***Things Gospel
Beckwith Mall – Bridgetown
Church Street – Speightstown
Super Center – Warrens, Barbados.

Chef cooks up gospel CD

“Even though I run away, your love still remains, and though I’m sin-stained, your blood can wash away every spot I’ve gained from my sinful escapade.” These are just some of the words composed by creative chef and gospel minister, Stephen John Junior, who recently launched his first CD called In Your Presence.

The 28-year-old of Arouca, said he has been working on his debut CD for about two years. The launch took place on Saturday July 8, 2006 at the Arouca Revival Tabernacle, John’s home church.

When asked why he decided to name the CD In Your Presence he said, “I believe that it is in God’s presence we find who we truly are, where all our potential is released, and where we are set free from all ills.”

John, who graduated from the Trinidad and Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute (TTHTI) in 1999, added, “my desire is to see people healed and delivered by the power of Jesus Christ, through my music as it reflects the trials, challenges and triumphs of my own life.” About a year and a half ago, John started his own catering company, “Heavenly Bites,” after working at establishments such as the Lodge Nursing Home and Voyager of the Seas among others. He currently supplies Mario’s Pizzeria in Arima, Trincity Mall, UWI, St Augustine, Chaguanas and Ellerslie with his mouth watering desserts.

When asked why he chose the culinary arts as a career, he replied with a smile, “I always liked food and creating.”

So why does a chef do a gospel CD?

“I have always been involved in church,” said John, “and my mother ensured that from a young age my siblings and I went to church. She also encouraged us to develop our own personal relationship with Christ. I don’t regret that for a minute. I don’t think I missed out on anything,” he insisted.

John has been a gospel singer since the age of 14, when he started singing publicly as a member of the Youth Pulse Choir.

Then in 1998, he won the Local Full Gospel Song Festival with his own composition, “Leaving It All Behind”. He also copped the Best Composed and Best Arranged Song awards for that year. In 1999, he was nominated for Best Male Vocalist and Best Gospel Performance at the TT Music Awards, copping the prize for the Best Gospel Performance. In both 2003 and 2004, he captured second place at the Caribbean Gospel Festival Finals held in Curacao. He also received the award for Most Original Song in those two consecutive years.

The talented father of three has also been sharing his gift with our Caribbean neighbours having ministered in Jamaica, Bahamas and Antigua and Barbuda.

On a recent trip to Barbados to promote his work, John said he was well received, having had the opportunity to visit several churches. He was also a guest on the Barbadian gospel station, 790AM, where he was interviewed by the station’s host, Ronnie Clarke, brother of Barbadian singer, Rupee.

On the CD, there are 12 songs, (all composed by John), as well as a video of his performance in the Bahamas at ASAPH 2003, which is a worship conference held every year at Dr Miles Monroe’s church, the Bahamas Faith Ministries.

Asked about what gives him the inspiration to compose such moving words, John stated, “life and relationships gives me all the inspiration I need to write.”

He added that he’s thankful for the support he has been receiving from members of the church and people from his group. He thanked the musicians, Earl Brown, Lenore Syder, Dr Lincoln Douglas, Earl Phillip and his producer Mark Romero. He also thanks his wife Marisha for her great support.

When asked about his plans for the future, the very determined chef and singer said, “My ultimate mission is very complex, but it surrounds the tourism/hospitality community. Both my musical and culinary capabilities surround that mission and I’m working to put it together. However, I aim to become a professional music minister, ie songwriter, singer and arranger. I aim also to be well grounded in the truth, so as to assist those who need restoration of their whole being.”

John firmly believes that In Your Presence is just the beginning for him. Interested listeners can find the album at Cherub Bookstores, Maranatha, Cleve’s, Crosby’s, the Promise Bookstore, and online at cdbaby.net.

Persons can also visit his website at www.iypdalbum.com.