Just Keep On

Just Keep On

Just Keep On

Just Keep On

Napalm 'on the run' my bro from the UK

 Love this song from my bro Napalm he never disappoints with the bars and delivery.

Prepare Before you Record Written By Garry E Shepard Jr.

There are many ways to prepare before you record whether it be reciting your bars or singing praying or reading Gods word.  I have 3 ways in which I prepare before I record:

1. Pray

I pray to make sure self is in check, Rap whether it be main stream or Christian is competitive. Also I want to make sure I'm in the right spirit because you have to be careful who you let inspire you. Also Prayer sets the atmosphere. I can remember a time when I first started to record I got so aggravated because I was rushed by a friend who's independent label I was under. I couldn't even focus. but had I prayed first I wouldn've let that bother me.


2. Practice

I literally practice 4 to 7 times a day, When I'm driving to work and coming from work. Lol the faces I get as Im rapping while driving priceless. I also have a Practice Mic which I use a lot in the mirror. And for days Im going to perform I don't practice my song at all that day I just listen to a recorded version. I do however recite the first line of each verse for memory sake.


3. Take Notes

I take notes on my Note 5 Phone when small ideas come to my head, as a song writer you know that you have a window to how long you can obtain the idea your head before you lose it. I still do it the old skool way writing in notebooks and even using old bars to complete the new ones. So thats it would love to hear how you prepare yourself in the comments. Thank you.

Also They Wanna Hear It remix out now. http://soundcloud/ctpsalmist860/they-wanna-hear-it-remix-featuring-trevor-pope-and-serious-voice

Standing for Truth Written by Garry E Shepard Jr.

We are living in a day and time where the bible continues to fulfill itself.  Sin is put on a pedal-stool, while being a Christian and believing in God and his word is a crime. I'm going to give 3 examples of injustice against Christians.



1. Kim Davis

Last week Kim Davis was jailed for not issuing marriage License to a same-sex couple. Kim explained that doing so would go against her religious belief. So in other words  she didn't want to seem like she's supporting what the word of God forbids, not only that she didn't issue any license do to the fact that the state where she's from Past Same Sex marriage which caused her to stop issuing marriage license. Instead of this same sex couple going to a different clerk they called the police and had her arrested. She sits in jail but here is the best part and this shows that God is on your side, supporters began to rally for Kim Davis singing Hymns. Mike Huckabee also joined in support for Kim Davis. Here you have a woman who worked 27yrs at her Job, only to be put in jail for not issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples. The most upsetting part is when I read about this I saw "Love wins" ??? Rejoicing over a non criminal put in jail because of pride. Christians are targets in this day and age. Yet God still gets the glory. I love how she gave praises to God. I praised along with her.





 

Branchout your Ministry. Written by Garry E Shepard Jr.

This is for all my Inspiring Artist such as myself, I' m reminded of the scripture  Mark 6:4-6 when Jesus tells us about Ministering where we live.  You would think that since people know who you are you will get mass support, especially it being family and friends. Sometimes makes you wonder why is that. I thought of 3 things,

1. Ministry version of you verses what your family and friends know of you-

Family has been a part of our lives since we can remember. Some family members will support from a distance, while many will be offended at what your Ministry will entail. Some just won't believe that God can use you to do a mighty work. Either because of how you used to be or what they used to know about you. Know that Jesus experienced this first. They where astonished and some were offended because of him and the scripture he read out loud. They knew that Joseph was his earthly father, it was even said that his brothers and sisters were offended.

2. Authority And Power you will Display

Again we go back to man's idea of what your image displays. We as Christians are given power and authority by the Spirit of God through Jesus Christ. Jesus was known in his hometown as the son of a Carpenter. We all hold different occupations, we all have different upbringings. Some of us were well off some were poor. Because man can't discern hearts they don't realize What God has placed in you. God himself told Samuel that the heart is his main focus. God uses the ones that the world counts out the meek and lowly to give Power and Authority. Not to say he can't use those that are well off, but the meek and lowly heart is more open and receptive to Gods desires.

3. You will be taken to higher heights

This Familiar Place Written by Garry E Shepard Jr.

As Minister Faithful is on he remembers the corner store where as a child he would go to play his favorite arcade game street fighter. To his right he sees the Grinder shop where he ate and also played Arcade games in. However he notice the people weren't the same, this section that was part of his golden years was now infested with Drug Addicts and gangs on the corner, No longer can he take a walk down the his old familar street of his. Evangelizng to evryone and speaking against evil he is ignored some of the dealers start yell get off my block!!!!!!!!!! However determined to do the Lord's work he keeps on. All of a sudden the same dealers surround him. He takes one look up in the sky and sends up a silent prayer, and before they can lift a finger the Police come and they began to walk away like nothing happened. The responding Police Officer Promise Tells Minister Faithful he understands what he's trying to do, but you can't do this alone, I'm also a believer and the Lord God lead me to see what was going on here. This street need a revival, it needs the whole body of Christ.

Five Things Every Parent needs to Survive Caitlyn (Aka Bruce Jenner). Written by Garry E Shepard Jr.

Before I go into this let me just say that we really need to pray for Bruce Jenner, all jokes and arguments about why he changed sex shouldn't be among Christians we are set apart, neither should we be found condemning Bruce to hell. Jesus said in John 8:7 he that's without sin May cast the the first stone. We live in a day in time where evil is celebrated and truth is shunned. The world has made this a highlight and center of attention. With that let's go to 5 ways to survive Caitlyn (Bruce Jenner).

1. Teaching our children in stages.

Proverbs 22:6 says Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it. The best teaching starts from a child, were aren't born racist or born attractive to the same sex, however what we teach our children stays with them for life. we have to teach our children whats right and whats wrong, whats normal whats not normal. We also have to teach them that the majority isn't always right. we must instill in our children Biblical Principals and how to stand on them in these end times. Also we have to remember to not overwhelm them their little minds can only process so much, thats why I say in stages. in church and in the home is a Good way to Teach and instill Truth.

2. Be examples of what we teach.

James 1:22 but be ye doers of the word, not hears only, deceiving your own selves.

Not only do we need to teach our children we need to show them. All over the world saved and unsaved or going back and forth. The world makes Bruce out to be a hero and brave. This world is gonna cause a lot of people to miss Heaven. we are  to be a Pecular people set apart. We are to show loving kindness,  Jesus said with loving kindness have I drawn thee. We as christians tend to forget that we were not always saved putting people in hell when we should be witnessing to that soul. We should want our children to live better lives then us, but in order for that to happen we have to show them how to apply the word of God to their lives and share the word of God with people like Bruce Jenner and more.


3. Spend time with your Children or Child

Spending time with your Child, watching what they watch on Tv, playing with them, talking with them reading going to the park. Building a solid foundation is key. The last thing we want to do is be so strict and Militant that they are afraid to say or do anything with or around us. We also need to monitor their internet activity, and become involved in their school. I once read  how a child brought home a coloring book that had Satanism in it and when the parents addressed they were almost arrested. We want our children to be able to tell us everything, things that may need addressing, also be ready answer questions of curiosity. Spending time with our children help build character and communication skills.

4. Teach Self Examination.

The word says in Is a 64:6 That our righteousness our as filthy Rags no Sin is greater than the other. We have to remember no one is perfect and that daily we strive for perfection. The worse things we can do as parents is to be self righteous to point the finger and not hold our own ways accountable. First off it looks bad and it's Not of God. That's a form of Pride and that's one the things God hates. We have to teach our children to be honest with others and themselves at all times. One that I was always told is that I always keep it real. I wouldn't be any other way. It takes to much time and energy being fake. Kill the Self Righteous act before it kill people confident and respect for you. If you want the best for your child or Children deal with it now.

5. Prepare them for the Future

We don't know when Jesus is coming back or what the future holds as we speak things are getting worse we're living in a time where the fear of God is nowhere to be found.

we must prepare our children for the Return of Jesus. Remember they're watching us how we conduct ourselves, how we speak about people and different subjects, at a certain age they are sponges let's make sure they soak up nothing but Success in a Good way.

It all started when written by Garry E Shepard Jr.

Let me see where it all started for me with the love of music I'm gonna say the late 80s to early 2000s.  From Micheal Jackson to New Edition, Bobby Brown to Wu Tang Bone Thugs. Notorious BIG was my number 1 Rapper. Hip Hop was my first love as far as music goes I remember me and my Best Friend Cedric used to take his sister Karaoke Machine lock ourselves in his room put in a single tape with the instrumental and go in!!!!!!!!!. I know I'm not the only one that miss spitting over instrumentals. Cedric did freestyle and I was and still a conscience rapper. I was like a news reporter but rapping bout the streets and urban life. No matter if they will accept me or not as far as my music  my passion will keep me moving. I made up in my mind along time ago that fame is the last thing I look for. I seen what it does to people who have to maintain it and I can do without it. So Now I rap for God and love it. I just want  God to get the Glory after all I'm just his instrument. 

Doors opened written by Garry E Shepard Jr.

God is so good after waiting and searching and exercising my faith the Doors have Been opened, it's amazing how just when your on the brink of giving up God's timely provision makes way for renewed strength. I'm a man of faith I exercise it daily but sometimes life has a way of putting detours in your way but God. I want to encourage those of you starting out your ministry keep at it til you see results and even then keep at it. It only get better from there.

Preparation. Written by Garry E Shepard Jr.

I'm finally in a position to pursue one of my  many loves Music. Throughout the years the love and passion for it has been my driving force from writing songs to producing. Now that I'm going to school for it I see that it's more than just having a love for Music. I now find myself focusing on the Business side of Music, and how I want to make a career of it.

Walking Into my Destiny Written By Garry E Shepard jr.

For years I've been planning and making moves to record music. From putting titles to a song to writing to putting tracks together. God knows the passion I have for making music.
The major part I failed to focus on is the financial  part. Its ok to dream but money will make that dream a reality. I can pray that God open doors but I need money to make things happen. I can say that God has blessed me to start school for Audio Engineering, in which I'm learning straight from the studio. In my mind I just wanted to be a Music Producer, but God took it a step farther. I'm greatful  for how God has allowed me to learn all aspects of the Music Industry.

Start Off Small written by Garry E Shepard Jr.

Music Career choices.

God's timing.

                                                     GOD'S TIMING

                                             WRITTEN BY GARY E SHEPARD JR.

Great Christian Hip Hop Artist Written By Garry E Shepard Jr.

This blog is based  on Artist that I don't mind supporting and do more than music. This is in no particular order.

Bishop Rez

 I've known Bishop Rez since he was a Minister, we went to Gospel rap shows together. Bishop is a Native from BK NY, he's a go getter, people person. He came out with an album Holy Biography which to this day is still a banger. Unafraid with his lyrics and taking the Gospel to the streets. Bishop was a Council man in New Britain CT, not only that but Bishop has marched against violence in the city of New Britain with NBPD by his side. Bishop Rez has a powerful testimony. Hes an example of What we all should be More than just an Artist. There is more I can say about him but it would take this whole blog.


Soft Spoken Prophet


I 1st came across Soft Spoken when I went to Billy Powell  first Album release concert, he was doing spoken word like he should have been on PC4M. A Minister as myself hailing from Mass this brother is  one of the best  local lyricist I've heard not trying to Judge or put anyone down but man I consider him a word smith. I have his 1st album  and his Mixtape in which you can download for free on bandcamp look up Soft Spoken Prophet. Its sad how underrated this brother is, he should have had a record deal by now.  Simular to Christon Gray but with soul, Soft Spoken can sing and rap and do spoken word. He also encouraged me to start rapping again.


Da Light

I met  Jacarl (Da Light) on Facebook, we connected instantly. I downloaded his Album "Life and Death" which is my Favorite Album, its very motivational, heart felt and a must have. I love this brother he was hosting an open mic at Cup Of Praise in Waterbury Ct and invited me and we just clicked from there. This brother is very humble, hes not caught up  with  having the hottest bars, or the limlight but his main focus is giving God the Glory.  

Serious (Voice of New York)

I first discovered Serious in her video "Live" with her and her husband, the bars and her husband Christopher James sang man had my head bobbing like a bobble head lool. I saw her perform live at  GospelBeat open mic in Springfield Mass. She killed it  and her Mixtape "Are you Serious vol 1"  she gave out for free. The whole mixtape is fire. From there I network with her and her husband the advice she and her husband has given me  has helped me put things in perspective.

C.Woods 

C.Woods a humble and energetic brother, MC and Producer and now CEO of UPLifting Records. Father of 2. Always on the Grind. Travels more that a person in a car. One time I had to tell this brother go take it easy, his motto 20 shows a month. And you better believe that's what he had. This brother is very influential amoung the youth, a people person. I have nothing but love for this Brother.

      

Eyes and mind of Jesus Christ.

Ever looked at a person a certain way or treated a person some kinda way like eww.

YOU DON'T LOOK LIKE A RAPPER WRITTEN BY GARRY E SHEPARD JR.

Yesterday Friday, June 7, 2013 I performed at a youth service at Ark Of Refuge C.O.G.I.C in New Haven Ct with the support of my Wife, Mother in law, my son and my church family. I enjoyed myself immensely.  I did my song, If I only Knew. At first, when I was rapping I noticed that some people were trying to figure out what I was rapping about, and I was expecting for the youth to really get into  it but i only realized that it took them a while to get the story of my rap. After I was finished I received applause which I didn't expect!  I was told I didn't look like a rapper, that mad me laugh. Some said I didn't think you had it in you. as I wrote about the Christian Hip Hop Image,  these thoughts came to my head, "I feel like if you don't have an image that some are used to then some have a problem connecting with your rap maybe its just me." I'm not offended at all, it just made me realise that you cant judge a book by its cover! To God be all the Glory, cause I know that at the end of the day it not about me! PEACE!!!!!!  

The realization of it all. written by Garry E Shepard JR.

5/15/13

                                                               The Realization of it all    


The Lord spoke clearly to my heart, he let me know that he wants the glory from me. All this time I've been trying to seek help from people as far as recording my music but something always come up. God has blessed me to write and compose musical tracks but because of my heart's desires, God is preparing me for my time will come. Proverbs 16:3 is my main focus because as I'm committing my thoughts, concerns, cares unto the lord he's working them out. God shares his glory with no one. I have come to peace with the fact that as long as what I do is within God's will I shouldn't worry about when but how I need to stay focus on doing the Lord's work.

Rejoice for your Brothers and sisters in Christ.

                         

                         
                         

    WRITTEN BY GARRY E SHEPARD JR.

Rejoice with your brothers and sisters when they reach when God uses them whether it's for Singing Gospel, Gospel Rap or preaching. Not only because the Bible says so but because rejoicing  with our brothers and sisters keeps us in the right spirit. The flesh loves to have it's way selfishness is it's number 1 appetite. I'm still waiting to record and share my music for awhile but I make it my duty to support others as God blesses them with opportunities to use their gift to bring him Glory. My time will come and I would want the same. It's not all about the recognition but  you would want to be appreciated for what you do and you should. I've been blessed to fellowship with some humble brothers and sisters doing kingdom work for God so as I end this I ask that you continue to rejoice for your Brothers and Sisters on the frontline for your time will come.

The Process. By Garry E Shepard Jr.

                                                   
                                                                THE PROCESS
                                                      BY GARRY E SHEPARD JR.

I'm sitting here thinking and still trying to record my EP. It's taking a time I did a rough draft but that's all I'm looking for help but everybody, is doing their own thing one person was nice enough to help but haven't been in contact since then. I even ? is it worth it, is Gospel Rap really for me. I loved rap all my life you all should know  from my first blog a little of what I been through. I'm happy for those that are doing shows and established but to be honest whether secular or Christian everyone is still all for themselves. I'm not calling anyone on the carpet, I'm just expressing what I'm going through I know someone can relate to how I feel. If it was up to me I would record myself. I also don't like asking because I feel like I'm bothering a person. I don't want anyone to take this the wrong way but I'm stressing the process of ministering in music the hardest part for some such as myself is getting my God given gift to the world to hear. Some don't realize how stressful it can be and the time it takes write or make tracks and the disappointments of seeing neither being used. I will leave this with you in order for you to be an Artist you have to put in work and have patience because unless you come across the right person or receive an record deal know that you will be putting in work for a long time but it will all workout in the end. One last thing you have to remember that unless God says ok prepare to wait, when you find that your rapping and your not content then know that you went ahead of God instead of waiting. God Bless.