Ten acts remained at the top of Wednesday’s two-hour America’s Got Talent finale, but only one would walk away as the winner of Sofia Vergara’s inaugural season. (Wow, try saying that 10 times fast.)
Following their final performances on Tuesday’s episode, the finalists of Season 15 — aerialist Alan Silva, singer Archie Williams, dancing duo Bad Salsa, acrobatic trio Bello Sisters, spoken-word poet Brandon Leake, singing duo Broken Roots, singer Cristina Rae, singer Daneliya Tuleshova, singer Kenadi Dodds and singer Roberta Battaglia — returned to the AGT stage (albeit virtually in some cases) on Wednesday to find out which of...
Following their final performances on Tuesday’s episode, the finalists of Season 15 — aerialist Alan Silva, singer Archie Williams, dancing duo Bad Salsa, acrobatic trio Bello Sisters, spoken-word poet Brandon Leake, singing duo Broken Roots, singer Cristina Rae, singer Daneliya Tuleshova, singer Kenadi Dodds and singer Roberta Battaglia — returned to the AGT stage (albeit virtually in some cases) on Wednesday to find out which of...
- 9/24/2020
- by Andy Swift
- TVLine.com
Detroit — A judge sentenced a member of gospel music's Winans family to nearly 14 years in prison Wednesday for an $8 million financial scam that was promoted in church pulpits.
Two of Michael Winans Jr.'s victims spoke in federal court, telling a judge that the scheme to sell Saudi Arabian oil bonds robbed some people of their life savings, caused divorces and fractured many families.
"I want to apologize to everyone. ... These were decisions that were negligent and irresponsible," said Winans, of Jessup, Md.
He said he had no "malicious intent" but acknowledged that he continued to collect money even after he learned that the bonds were bogus.
Winans attracted more than 1,000 investors in 2007 and 2008, although he didn't know them all because many were recruited by others through word of mouth. He promised 100 percent returns in two months, then used the money for personal expenses or to pay off earlier investors.
Two of Michael Winans Jr.'s victims spoke in federal court, telling a judge that the scheme to sell Saudi Arabian oil bonds robbed some people of their life savings, caused divorces and fractured many families.
"I want to apologize to everyone. ... These were decisions that were negligent and irresponsible," said Winans, of Jessup, Md.
He said he had no "malicious intent" but acknowledged that he continued to collect money even after he learned that the bonds were bogus.
Winans attracted more than 1,000 investors in 2007 and 2008, although he didn't know them all because many were recruited by others through word of mouth. He promised 100 percent returns in two months, then used the money for personal expenses or to pay off earlier investors.
- 2/27/2013
- by AP
- Huffington Post
American Idol star Fantasia is to perform on the Super Bowl Gospel Celebration this year, it has been announced. The View's Sherri Shepherd will host the charity show at the Uno Lakefront Arena in New Orleans as part of Super Bowl Xlvii weekend. Marvin Winans, Donnie McClurkin and gospel music superstar Kirk Franklin are also to appear at the 14th annual concert. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Malcolm Jenkins Foundation and (more)...
- 1/10/2013
- by By Justin Harp
- Digital Spy
Reverend Marvin Winans -- the guy who Mc'd Whitney Houston's funeral service -- should Not have been driving when he was carjacked last week ... because his license was suspended. In fact, Winans is a wanted man -- with an active warrant out for his arrest, this according to DetroitNews.com. Marvin -- whose family members are gospel music legends -- reportedly lost his driving privileges on May 9th after failing to pay 2 tickets issued...
- 5/24/2012
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Detroit — Three young men were arraigned Sunday in the assault and carjacking of popular Detroit pastor and gospel singing icon Marvin Winans.
The office of Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy identified the suspects as Detroit residents Montoya Givens and Christopher Moorehead, both 20, and Brian K. Young, 18, of Macomb County's Clinton Township. They are charged with carjacking, unarmed robbery and conspiracy, said Maria Miller, Worthy's spokeswoman.
The charges carry up to life in prison.
The men appeared in Detroit's 36th District Court and were ordered held on $200,000 bonds. Their preliminary examinations, in which a judge decides where there's enough evidence for the case to go to trial, are June 1.
A prosecutor's spokeswoman said Sunday she didn't think the defendants had lawyers yet.
Winans, 54, was attacked Wednesday afternoon while pumping gas in Detroit. The robbers took his sport utility vehicle, Rolex watch, cash and credit cards.
"This is just an example of...
The office of Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy identified the suspects as Detroit residents Montoya Givens and Christopher Moorehead, both 20, and Brian K. Young, 18, of Macomb County's Clinton Township. They are charged with carjacking, unarmed robbery and conspiracy, said Maria Miller, Worthy's spokeswoman.
The charges carry up to life in prison.
The men appeared in Detroit's 36th District Court and were ordered held on $200,000 bonds. Their preliminary examinations, in which a judge decides where there's enough evidence for the case to go to trial, are June 1.
A prosecutor's spokeswoman said Sunday she didn't think the defendants had lawyers yet.
Winans, 54, was attacked Wednesday afternoon while pumping gas in Detroit. The robbers took his sport utility vehicle, Rolex watch, cash and credit cards.
"This is just an example of...
- 5/21/2012
- by AP
- Huffington Post
Pastor and gospel singer Marvin Winans was assaulted and carjacked Wednesday (May 16) at a gas station on the west side of Detroit, reports the AP. Winans says four to five young men followed him from inside the station and attacked him as he was putting gas in his car.
Winans is a pastor at the large Perfecting Church on Detroit's east side and is well known for eulogizing singer Whitney Houston at her February funeral.
Luckily, Winans only had minor scrapes and bruises following the incident, though the young men did make off with his wall containing $200, his $15,000 Rolex watch and his 2012 Infiniti QX56 SUV.
"I'm just saddened that it has come to this. This kind of nonsense just has to stop. It's just the savageness of what's happening in the street," says Winans.
Rev. James Garrett of Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Church in southwest Detroit, who lives near the crime scene,...
Winans is a pastor at the large Perfecting Church on Detroit's east side and is well known for eulogizing singer Whitney Houston at her February funeral.
Luckily, Winans only had minor scrapes and bruises following the incident, though the young men did make off with his wall containing $200, his $15,000 Rolex watch and his 2012 Infiniti QX56 SUV.
"I'm just saddened that it has come to this. This kind of nonsense just has to stop. It's just the savageness of what's happening in the street," says Winans.
Rev. James Garrett of Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Church in southwest Detroit, who lives near the crime scene,...
- 5/17/2012
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Pop2it
ReelzChannel Celebrity Rundown
Items from the King of Pop's costume collection are going to be available to the buying public later this year. Several iconic Michael Jackson clothing items, like a crystal encrusted glove, gravity boots, and a red jacket, are going to be sold at Julien's Auctions in Beverly Hills on Dec 2. For the 99% of fans who won't be able to purchase anything at the auction, the items will start on a world tour starting this Friday in Santiago, Chile.
***
Months after her death, Whitney Houston remains in the headlines. Ex-husband Bobby Brown premiered a strikingly self-centered tribute song to Houston on Wednesday's The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. The song is entitled "Don't Let Me Die," and will be included on Brown's new album, which drops next month.
***
Whitney Houston is getting a tribute as well as the Billboard Millennium Award at Sunday's Billboard Music Awards. The tribute...
Items from the King of Pop's costume collection are going to be available to the buying public later this year. Several iconic Michael Jackson clothing items, like a crystal encrusted glove, gravity boots, and a red jacket, are going to be sold at Julien's Auctions in Beverly Hills on Dec 2. For the 99% of fans who won't be able to purchase anything at the auction, the items will start on a world tour starting this Friday in Santiago, Chile.
***
Months after her death, Whitney Houston remains in the headlines. Ex-husband Bobby Brown premiered a strikingly self-centered tribute song to Houston on Wednesday's The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. The song is entitled "Don't Let Me Die," and will be included on Brown's new album, which drops next month.
***
Whitney Houston is getting a tribute as well as the Billboard Millennium Award at Sunday's Billboard Music Awards. The tribute...
- 5/17/2012
- by Mandy McAdoo
- Reelzchannel.com
The pastor and gospel recording artist who gave the eulogy at Whitney Houston's funeral in February was beaten and carjacked in Detroit on Wednesday. The Rev. Marvin Winans suffered cuts and bruises and had his wallet, a $15,000 Rolex watch and his 2012 Infiniti SUV stolen, according to the Detroit Free Press. The three or four men who attacked Winans at a gas station in a northwest part of the city likely did not know who he was, police said. Winans, 54 - whose newest recording, "Let the Church Say Amen," is currently No. 1 on Billboard's gospel charts - was pumping gas...
- 5/17/2012
- by Tim Nudd
- PEOPLE.com
Detroit (AP) — Popular Detroit pastor and gospel singer Marvin Winans was assaulted and carjacked Wednesday afternoon at a gas station on the city's west side. The attack happened about 3:20 p.m., and the suspects fled with an unknown amount of cash and Winans' SUV, police said. Winans, 54, told Wxyz-tv that four or five young men followed him from inside the gas station and attacked him while he gassed up his vehicle. Winans said he didn't believe he was seriously hurt, but planned to seek medical attention. He said his attackers appeared to be among 10 young men he passed...
- 5/17/2012
- Hitfix
Pastor Marvin Winans -- the guy who M.C.'d Whitney Houston's funeral service -- was carjacked at a Detroit gas station earlier today. According to Wxyz, Winans was pumping gas when some scumbag roughed him up and stole the 54-year-old's Infiniti QX56 SUV. The pastor told a Wxyz reporter he had a feeling this was "not a good situation" when he first saw the group of guys who eventually jumped him.Winans --...
- 5/16/2012
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Whitney Houston's eulogist dropped some wisdom -- of Biblical proportions -- on Bobby Brown ... in attempt to settle the ongoing feud with Whitney's family.Pastor Marvin Winans flew into Lax yesterday ... and when we asked about Bobby getting booted from the funeral he said, "What I know is, Bobby did really love Whitney -- and Whitney really loved Bobby."Marvin added he knows most issues can't be resolved in 20 minutes -- a la TV's...
- 2/24/2012
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Washington, Feb 21: Whitney Houston's friends and family are known to have addressed her as "Nippy" but it has emerged that she was also referred to by another nickname - "Illegal".
Nippy was the name of a cartoon character who constantly got into trouble and that, said the pastor who eulogized Houston at her funeral service on Saturday, is one of the reasons why the singer got her second pet name.
"We called Whitney 'Illegal' because she would just do stuff," ABC News quoted Pastor Marvin Winans as telling 'Good Morning America'.
"Not because she was Whitney Houston the star but because she was this mischievous.
Nippy was the name of a cartoon character who constantly got into trouble and that, said the pastor who eulogized Houston at her funeral service on Saturday, is one of the reasons why the singer got her second pet name.
"We called Whitney 'Illegal' because she would just do stuff," ABC News quoted Pastor Marvin Winans as telling 'Good Morning America'.
"Not because she was Whitney Houston the star but because she was this mischievous.
- 2/21/2012
- by Shiva Prakash
- RealBollywood.com
It was an emotional weekend for friends and family of Whitney Houston as the singer was laid to rest in New Jersey.
Family members frantically searched for Houston's daughter, Bobbi Kristina, who reportedly vanished after the funeral on Saturday. The conflicting reports about her disappearance triggered additional concern for the 18-year-old, and many are wondering if she needs help.
Pastor Marvin Winans, who delivered the eulogy, said in an interview with "Good Morning America" that...
Family members frantically searched for Houston's daughter, Bobbi Kristina, who reportedly vanished after the funeral on Saturday. The conflicting reports about her disappearance triggered additional concern for the 18-year-old, and many are wondering if she needs help.
Pastor Marvin Winans, who delivered the eulogy, said in an interview with "Good Morning America" that...
- 2/20/2012
- Extra
By Roger Friedman
From an updated story I published in 1992: This Sunday, 1500 of Whitney Houston’s closest friends will gather in New Jersey for her wedding to singer Bobby Brown. The ceremony will most likely be at the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, followed by a reception at Whitney’s house near Bernardsville. Rev. Marvin Winans, brother of singers BeBe and Cece, will perform the service. Stevie Wonder will sing, possibly his old hit “You and I” or maybe something new that he’s written for the occasion.
Click to read more…...
From an updated story I published in 1992: This Sunday, 1500 of Whitney Houston’s closest friends will gather in New Jersey for her wedding to singer Bobby Brown. The ceremony will most likely be at the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, followed by a reception at Whitney’s house near Bernardsville. Rev. Marvin Winans, brother of singers BeBe and Cece, will perform the service. Stevie Wonder will sing, possibly his old hit “You and I” or maybe something new that he’s written for the occasion.
Click to read more…...
- 2/19/2012
- by Scott Feinberg
- Scott Feinberg
Whitney Houston's funeral brought the singer back to where it all began - the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, N.J., where she performed as a child in the choir. On Saturday, those same walls were filled with music and stories of the star who touched so many lives in her 48 years. With tears and laughter, BeBe Winans shared memories of sitting with Houston - in her closet - preparing for her first tour. "We weren't crowded," he joked of the space. "It was as big as this church." Photos: Whitney: Mourning an IconTyler Perry passionately shared glimpses of the Whitney he knew,...
- 2/18/2012
- by Danielle Anderson
- PEOPLE.com
See all of the complete coverage of this emotional tribute to the incredible singer. Whitney Houston's Feb. 18 funeral has brought dozens of A-list stars to the New Hope Baptist Church in Westfield, New Jersey, and HollywoodLife.com has complete coverage of the whole ceremony. Whitney, who died at 48, is being celebrated by a huge guest list at the invite-only service, including Alicia Keys, Clive Davis, Tyler Perry, Dionne Warwick, Stevie Wonder, Kim Burrell, Rickey Minor, Donnie McClurkin, Marvin Winans and Cece Winans, L.A. Reid, Brandy and Ray J. The service began with rousing spiritual songs, an incredible reminder of Whitney's early days in the church's choir and the joy that music brought to her life. As the music quieted, there was an introduction from A. Curtis Farrow, minister of music at the church, who said he had been helping the family all week through their loss. Following him was...
- 2/18/2012
- by William Earl
- HollywoodLife
By Nekesa Mumbi Moody, The Associated Press
Newark, N.J. -- The funeral for Whitney Houston is ending at the New Jersey church she attended as a child.
The New Hope Baptist Church in Newark is packed to capacity for the invitation-only service. Houston died Feb. 11 in California the day before the Grammy awards. She was 48.
Stevie Wonder and Alicia Keys are among those who sang at the service. Kevin Costner, Clive Davis and others have spoken. The Rev. Marvin Winans has eulogized Houston.
The funeral ended with Houston's casket being taken out the church as her hit "I Will Always Love You" played. Her mother's sobs could be heard throughout the church, and Houston's daughter is crying too.
Houston is expected to be laid to rest near her father's grave in New Jersey.
This Is A Breaking News Update. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.
Newark, N.J. -- The funeral for Whitney Houston is ending at the New Jersey church she attended as a child.
The New Hope Baptist Church in Newark is packed to capacity for the invitation-only service. Houston died Feb. 11 in California the day before the Grammy awards. She was 48.
Stevie Wonder and Alicia Keys are among those who sang at the service. Kevin Costner, Clive Davis and others have spoken. The Rev. Marvin Winans has eulogized Houston.
The funeral ended with Houston's casket being taken out the church as her hit "I Will Always Love You" played. Her mother's sobs could be heard throughout the church, and Houston's daughter is crying too.
Houston is expected to be laid to rest near her father's grave in New Jersey.
This Is A Breaking News Update. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.
- 2/18/2012
- by AP
- Huffington Post
After a powerful and emotional service that featured a long list of illustrious speakers and spectacular performances, Pastor Marvin Winans stood before the audience to give his eulogy, to remind the church that they were there first and foremost to praise God for giving them the opportunity of living and knowing Whitney Houston. The crowd received him enthusiastically, and after his thank you to New Jersey governor Chris Christie, gave the governor a standing ovation.
- 2/18/2012
- by Frances Martel
- Mediaite - TV
We're on the scene at New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, N.J., and will be bringing you updates as they happen, as the world remembers the singular pop icon. (All times are Eastern.) 3:58 p.m. Guests begin to file out of the church. A VIP reception is being held at One Newark Center, where guests including Perry and Costner are expected to attend. 3:55 p.m. "I Will Always Love You" is played on the sound system, filling the church with Houston's incomparable voice as pallbearers carry her casket down the aisle and outside the building. 3:04 p.m. Rev. Marvin Winans, who officiated at Houston's marriage to Brown, delivers a galvanizing eulogy. As he wraps up, he says: "Father, we thank...
- 2/18/2012
- E! Online
By Roger Friedman, ©2012
HollywoodNews.com: From an updated story I published in 1992: This Sunday, 1500 of Whitney Houston’s closest friends will gather in New Jersey for her wedding to singer Bobby Brown. The ceremony will most likely be at the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, followed by a reception at Whitney’s house near Bernardsville. Rev. Marvin Winans, brother of singers BeBe and Cece, will perform the service. Stevie Wonder will sing, possibly his old hit “You and I” or maybe something new that he’s written for the occasion.
Scroll Down For Whitney Houston Photo Gallery In Her Memory
“Every important black person in show business will be there,” says a black journalist who’s on the Whitney watch twenty four hours a day. Freddie Jackson is bringing Toukie Smith. Ashford and Simpson will be there. Dionne Warwick of course. The ubiquitous Winans, too. (Last month, Whitney...
HollywoodNews.com: From an updated story I published in 1992: This Sunday, 1500 of Whitney Houston’s closest friends will gather in New Jersey for her wedding to singer Bobby Brown. The ceremony will most likely be at the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, followed by a reception at Whitney’s house near Bernardsville. Rev. Marvin Winans, brother of singers BeBe and Cece, will perform the service. Stevie Wonder will sing, possibly his old hit “You and I” or maybe something new that he’s written for the occasion.
Scroll Down For Whitney Houston Photo Gallery In Her Memory
“Every important black person in show business will be there,” says a black journalist who’s on the Whitney watch twenty four hours a day. Freddie Jackson is bringing Toukie Smith. Ashford and Simpson will be there. Dionne Warwick of course. The ubiquitous Winans, too. (Last month, Whitney...
- 2/18/2012
- by Roger Friedman
- Hollywoodnews.com
Whitney Houston's funeral on Saturday began with a few words from Newark mayor Cory Booker, who welcomed guests to the city and praised the "I Will Always Love You" singer. "God is in our heaven, and with him is one of our angels, Whitney Houston," Booker said. "We love you, Whitney; thank you." Houston's friend, gospel singer CeCe Winans -- whose brother, pastor Marvin Winans, is presiding over the service -- then sang for the assemblage, performing a powerful, hearrtfelt rendition...
- 2/18/2012
- by Tim Kenneally
- The Wrap
Whitney Houston's friends and family traveled to Newark, NJ this morning to pay respects to the dearly departed icon.
Et's Full Coverage of Whitney Houston's Death
From Kevin Costner to Clive Davis, those who knew her best spoke while artists like Stevie Wonder and Alicia Keys offered up musical tributes to the fallen star.
The proceedings began around 11:30 am Et when a choir -- clad all in white -- began singing a variety of spiritual hymns as the congregants took their seats.
Bobby Brown Leaves Whitney's Funeral
At 12:17, Curtis Pharaoh, the minister of music at New Hope Baptist Church, introduced Newark Mayor Cory Booker who said, "We are here to mourn our great loss, but celebrate her life. God is in heaven and with him is one of our angels, Whitney Houston."
Rev. Joe Carter then said, "Whitney, you are the only one that could bring all of us together. Whitney, today...
Et's Full Coverage of Whitney Houston's Death
From Kevin Costner to Clive Davis, those who knew her best spoke while artists like Stevie Wonder and Alicia Keys offered up musical tributes to the fallen star.
The proceedings began around 11:30 am Et when a choir -- clad all in white -- began singing a variety of spiritual hymns as the congregants took their seats.
Bobby Brown Leaves Whitney's Funeral
At 12:17, Curtis Pharaoh, the minister of music at New Hope Baptist Church, introduced Newark Mayor Cory Booker who said, "We are here to mourn our great loss, but celebrate her life. God is in heaven and with him is one of our angels, Whitney Houston."
Rev. Joe Carter then said, "Whitney, you are the only one that could bring all of us together. Whitney, today...
- 2/18/2012
- Entertainment Tonight
Friends and family will pay their last respects to Whitney Houston this morning in a private ceremony in Newark, New Jersey which will be broadcast live on ETOnline at 11 am Et / 8 am Pt. The streaming video will be available shortly.
Whitney Houston Funeral Details
Aretha Franklin, Tyler Perry, Mariah Carey, Dionne Warwick, Stevie Wonder, Cece Winans, L.A. Reid, Brandy and Ray J., Alicia Keys, and Clive Davis are expected to attend the service at New Hope Baptist Church, where Whitney sang as a child.
Her eulogy will be given by gospel singer Marvin Winans, a longtime family friend. Houston will be buried in the same cemetery in which her father was buried in 2003.
Et's Complete Whitney Houston Coverage
Stay tuned to ETOnline for complete coverage of the event.
Whitney Houston Funeral Details
Aretha Franklin, Tyler Perry, Mariah Carey, Dionne Warwick, Stevie Wonder, Cece Winans, L.A. Reid, Brandy and Ray J., Alicia Keys, and Clive Davis are expected to attend the service at New Hope Baptist Church, where Whitney sang as a child.
Her eulogy will be given by gospel singer Marvin Winans, a longtime family friend. Houston will be buried in the same cemetery in which her father was buried in 2003.
Et's Complete Whitney Houston Coverage
Stay tuned to ETOnline for complete coverage of the event.
- 2/18/2012
- Entertainment Tonight
The heartbreaking tribute will take place today at noon -- check back with us for complete coverage. Whitney Houston's funeral will attract plenty of A-list stars to the New Hope Baptist Church in Westfield, New Jersey on Feb. 18, and HollywoodLife.com will have the complete coverage of all of the tributes. Whitney, who died at 48, will be celebrated by a huge guest list at the invite-only service, including Alicia Keys, Clive Davis, Aretha Franklin, Tyler Perry, Dionne Warwick, Stevie Wonder, Kim Burrell, Rickey Minor, Donnie McClurkin, Marvin Winans and Cece Winans, L.A. Reid, Brandy and Ray J. The ceremony will take place at noon and will be followed by a burial at Fairview Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest next to her father John Russell Houston, Jr. HollywoodLife.com will have total coverage of the event, including a livestream so fans can follow along. We will also...
- 2/18/2012
- by William Earl
- HollywoodLife
'Whitney, you are the only one who could bring us all together,' New Hope Baptist Church pastor says in Newark, New Jersey.
By Tomika L. Anderson
Whitney Houston in 1995
Photo: 20th Century Fox/Getty Images
The whole world went to church on Saturday (February 18) to say goodbye to one of the greatest singers of all time. Attendees of all ages, religious beliefs and walks of life, gathered to celebrate superstar singer Whitney Elizabeth Houston, a native of Newark, New Jersey. The state's governor, Chris Christie, flew flags across New Jersey at half mast in her honor.
The 48-year-old music icon died on February 11, a day before the Grammy Awards, in Los Angeles. She is expected to be buried on Sunday. (The official cause of death has not yet been confirmed.)
Despite the singer's well-documented struggles with substance abuse, on Saturday, there was very little talk of controversy during the largely upbeat,...
By Tomika L. Anderson
Whitney Houston in 1995
Photo: 20th Century Fox/Getty Images
The whole world went to church on Saturday (February 18) to say goodbye to one of the greatest singers of all time. Attendees of all ages, religious beliefs and walks of life, gathered to celebrate superstar singer Whitney Elizabeth Houston, a native of Newark, New Jersey. The state's governor, Chris Christie, flew flags across New Jersey at half mast in her honor.
The 48-year-old music icon died on February 11, a day before the Grammy Awards, in Los Angeles. She is expected to be buried on Sunday. (The official cause of death has not yet been confirmed.)
Despite the singer's well-documented struggles with substance abuse, on Saturday, there was very little talk of controversy during the largely upbeat,...
- 2/18/2012
- MTV Music News
Whitney Houston's star-studded funeral service will be broadcast over the Internet tomorrow at 12 p.m. Est Much like all of her productions during her lifetime, Whitney Houston's funeral service Feb. 18 will be one for the ages. Held at the New Hope Baptist Church in Westfield, New Jersey, the celebration of Whitney's life will be attended by some of the biggest A-listers from Hollywood. Alicia Keys, Clive Davis, Aretha Franklin, Tyler Perry, Dionne Warwick, Stevie Wonder, Kim Burrell, Rickey Minor, Donnie McClurkin, Marvin Winans and Cece Winans, L.A. Reid, Brandy and Ray J are all expected to make appearances at the invite-only service. Stevie and Aretha will sing and Whitney's record producer, Clive Davis, will also speak to the attendees. “I would advise the public that there really is going to be nothing to see here at the church. The best thing to do would be to stay home...
- 2/18/2012
- by Kirstin Benson
- HollywoodLife
By Barry Carter
Religion News Service
Newark, N.J.(Rns) Marvin Winans is no stranger to fame. He comes from a musical gospel family known far and wide. Just say "the Winans" and people in the music world know who you're talking about.
Marvin was the premier songwriter for the group, their albums top sellers spanning the 1980s and 1990s. Though he's a gospel giant, he has worked in the secular music world as well, fusing gospel and rhythm and blues with big names such as producer Teddy Riley.
But at the end of the day, those in pastoral and gospel circles say Winans is a preacher and a good one who'll lean on the gospel to eulogize Whitney Houston at the New Hope Baptist Church here in Newark on Saturday (Feb 18).
"He knows how to minister at times like this," said the Rev. Joe Carter, the New Hope pastor who will be officiating.
Religion News Service
Newark, N.J.(Rns) Marvin Winans is no stranger to fame. He comes from a musical gospel family known far and wide. Just say "the Winans" and people in the music world know who you're talking about.
Marvin was the premier songwriter for the group, their albums top sellers spanning the 1980s and 1990s. Though he's a gospel giant, he has worked in the secular music world as well, fusing gospel and rhythm and blues with big names such as producer Teddy Riley.
But at the end of the day, those in pastoral and gospel circles say Winans is a preacher and a good one who'll lean on the gospel to eulogize Whitney Houston at the New Hope Baptist Church here in Newark on Saturday (Feb 18).
"He knows how to minister at times like this," said the Rev. Joe Carter, the New Hope pastor who will be officiating.
- 2/17/2012
- by Jahnabi Barooah
- Huffington Post
'What my heart feels cannot be expressed in words,' singer says in a statement issued to MTV News.
By Rob Markman
Ray J and Whitney Houston in 2008
Photo: Denise Truscello/WireImage
The sudden death of Whitney Houston has left her family, friends and fans broken-hearted. And on Friday (February 17), her close friend Ray J finally ended his silence, releasing this statement to MTV News:
"Over the past few days I've tried to process the emptiness that I am experiencing. What my heart feels cannot be expressed in words. The world lost an icon but I lost my close friend. Nippy I miss you so much! You were so happy and full of love. Your smile will live in my heart forever."
The "One Wish" singer was no doubt close to Houston, and while neither ever confirmed a romance, it was widely speculated that he and Houston were an item.
By Rob Markman
Ray J and Whitney Houston in 2008
Photo: Denise Truscello/WireImage
The sudden death of Whitney Houston has left her family, friends and fans broken-hearted. And on Friday (February 17), her close friend Ray J finally ended his silence, releasing this statement to MTV News:
"Over the past few days I've tried to process the emptiness that I am experiencing. What my heart feels cannot be expressed in words. The world lost an icon but I lost my close friend. Nippy I miss you so much! You were so happy and full of love. Your smile will live in my heart forever."
The "One Wish" singer was no doubt close to Houston, and while neither ever confirmed a romance, it was widely speculated that he and Houston were an item.
- 2/17/2012
- MTV Music News
Whitney Houston's family canceled a planned public memorial for the singer who died on Feb. 11, but apparently they will be sharing their private family funeral with the whole world via the Internet.
According to the Associated Press, Houston's funeral will be broadcast live on Saturday. The service is scheduled to take place at Noon Et on Saturday in Newark, N.J. at New Hope Baptist Church where Houston sang as a child.
TV viewers will also be able to watch on E! and Bet. Both channels will begin their special coverage at 11:30 a.m. Et
A eulogy will be given by gospel singer Marvin Winans and other speakers include her "Bodyguard" co-star Kevin Costner and mentor Clive Davis. Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder will perform.
In an invitation to the event obtained by TMZ, the family is referring to the burial ceremony as a "home going service."...
According to the Associated Press, Houston's funeral will be broadcast live on Saturday. The service is scheduled to take place at Noon Et on Saturday in Newark, N.J. at New Hope Baptist Church where Houston sang as a child.
TV viewers will also be able to watch on E! and Bet. Both channels will begin their special coverage at 11:30 a.m. Et
A eulogy will be given by gospel singer Marvin Winans and other speakers include her "Bodyguard" co-star Kevin Costner and mentor Clive Davis. Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder will perform.
In an invitation to the event obtained by TMZ, the family is referring to the burial ceremony as a "home going service."...
- 2/17/2012
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Pop2it
Singer was born in Garden State and grew up singing in Newark church.
By Gil Kaufman
Whitney Houston in East Orange, NJ in 1987
Photo: Ron Galella/WireImage
When Whitney Houston is eulogized and laid to rest on Saturday in New Jersey, it will complete the circle of her personal and professional lives in more ways than one. Houston, who died at age 48 last Saturday in a Beverly Hills hotel room of as-yet-undetermined causes, grew up in New Jersey and cut her teeth singing at Newark, New Jersey's New Hope Baptist church.
It is there that her family and friends will gather to remember a favorite daughter who burst onto the global music scene in the mid-1980s, never forgetting where she came from. Houston was the third and youngest child born, on August 9, 1963, to gospel great Cissy Houston and her late husband John, an entertainment executive and former Army serviceman.
By Gil Kaufman
Whitney Houston in East Orange, NJ in 1987
Photo: Ron Galella/WireImage
When Whitney Houston is eulogized and laid to rest on Saturday in New Jersey, it will complete the circle of her personal and professional lives in more ways than one. Houston, who died at age 48 last Saturday in a Beverly Hills hotel room of as-yet-undetermined causes, grew up in New Jersey and cut her teeth singing at Newark, New Jersey's New Hope Baptist church.
It is there that her family and friends will gather to remember a favorite daughter who burst onto the global music scene in the mid-1980s, never forgetting where she came from. Houston was the third and youngest child born, on August 9, 1963, to gospel great Cissy Houston and her late husband John, an entertainment executive and former Army serviceman.
- 2/17/2012
- MTV Music News
Alicia Keys and Tyler Perry will both attend Whitney Houston's funeral on Saturday (February 18). Tonight Show bandleader Rickey Minor and gospel singers Donnie McClurkin and Cece Winans are also on the guest list for the memorial service, Houston's rep has told Us Weekly. Houston's Bodyguard co-star Kevin Costner, record executive Clive Davis and Marvin Winans are among the speakers who will honor the popstar's legacy at the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, NJ. Aretha Franklin has been asked by the Houston family to sing during the funeral and Stevie Wonder will likely perform as well. Saturday's memorial service will be streamed on the internet for Houston's (more)...
- 2/17/2012
- by By Justin Harp
- Digital Spy
Singers join programme that reportedly includes Kevin Costner and label executive Clive Davis
Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder will perform at Whitney Houston's funeral this Saturday. The singers have joined a programme that reportedly includes Kevin Costner and label executive Clive Davis, who will both address mourners at Houston's childhood church.
Details are only gradually emerging for the private service, which is overseen by family members including Houston's mother, Cissy, and her cousin, the singer Dionne Warwick. On Thursday the Associated Press announced they have permission to broadcast the funeral online; they will be allowed just one camera into Newark's New Hope Baptist Church, which has been barred to the public.
Although many fans are upset at their exclusion from the funeral, observers are expected a star-studded gathering. Oprah Winfrey has been invited, according to Houston's former publicist, Kristen Foster, as has Houston's ex-husband, Bobby Brown. Gospel singer Marvin Winans will deliver the eulogy,...
Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder will perform at Whitney Houston's funeral this Saturday. The singers have joined a programme that reportedly includes Kevin Costner and label executive Clive Davis, who will both address mourners at Houston's childhood church.
Details are only gradually emerging for the private service, which is overseen by family members including Houston's mother, Cissy, and her cousin, the singer Dionne Warwick. On Thursday the Associated Press announced they have permission to broadcast the funeral online; they will be allowed just one camera into Newark's New Hope Baptist Church, which has been barred to the public.
Although many fans are upset at their exclusion from the funeral, observers are expected a star-studded gathering. Oprah Winfrey has been invited, according to Houston's former publicist, Kristen Foster, as has Houston's ex-husband, Bobby Brown. Gospel singer Marvin Winans will deliver the eulogy,...
- 2/17/2012
- by Sean Michaels
- The Guardian - Film News
With Whitney Houston's funeral less than two days away, it's no surprise that final plans and preparations are beginning to take shape. Not only do we have the confirmed list of who will be taking part in the service, but we also have details on how the New Hope Baptist Church is being transformed for the day. The program will include Kevin Costner, Aretha Franklin, Tyler Perry, Stevie Wonder, Rickey Minor, Alicia Keys, Dionne Warwick, Clive Davis and gospel singers CeCe Winans, Kim Burrell and Donnie McClurkin, a family rep confirms to E! News. The Rev. Marvin Winans will deliver the eulogy. As previously reported, the funeral will be private and invite-only. Celebrities will enter through one...
- 2/17/2012
- E! Online
Whitney Houston's The Bodyguard co-star Kevin Costner will reportedly speak at her funeral in New Jersey on Saturday.
Family sources tell People.com that the movie star will be among those delivering tributes at the service, which will be held at the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, where Houston was once a member of the choir.
The late superstar's longtime friend and mentor Clive Davis is also expected to speak and gospel singer and pastor Marvin Winans will deliver the eulogy.
Meanwhile, Et.com has confirmed that both Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder will sing at the star-studded service, which will stream live on the Internet.
Family sources tell People.com that the movie star will be among those delivering tributes at the service, which will be held at the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, where Houston was once a member of the choir.
The late superstar's longtime friend and mentor Clive Davis is also expected to speak and gospel singer and pastor Marvin Winans will deliver the eulogy.
Meanwhile, Et.com has confirmed that both Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder will sing at the star-studded service, which will stream live on the Internet.
- 2/16/2012
- WENN
Whitney Houston's former "The Bodyguard" co-star, Kevin Costner, is planning on speaking at the late singer's funeral this weekend, according to People.
In addition to Costner, Aretha Franklin will perform, as will Stevie Wonder.
Whitney's longtime producer Clive Davis will also speak at the service.
As previously reported on AccessHollywood.com, Houston's funeral will take place on Saturday, in her hometown of Newark, New Jersey.
Gospel singer/longtime family friend Marvin Winans will deliver the eulogy.
While the entrance to the service will be strictly invite-only, fans will be able to watch the event online via live ...
Copyright 2012 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
In addition to Costner, Aretha Franklin will perform, as will Stevie Wonder.
Whitney's longtime producer Clive Davis will also speak at the service.
As previously reported on AccessHollywood.com, Houston's funeral will take place on Saturday, in her hometown of Newark, New Jersey.
Gospel singer/longtime family friend Marvin Winans will deliver the eulogy.
While the entrance to the service will be strictly invite-only, fans will be able to watch the event online via live ...
Copyright 2012 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
- 2/16/2012
- by nobody@accesshollywood.com (AccessHollywood.com Editorial Staff)
- Access Hollywood
Fans who are mourning the sudden passing of Whitney Houston will soon get to see the singer be put to rest at her funeral, which is being broadcasted online. Whitney Houston's funeral will be streaming on Livestream and on TV for fans around the world. The last time that a funeral service was streamed and televised was in 2009 for Michael Jackson. The ceremony will be held at the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, NJ, where the singer grew up. Gospel singer and pastor Marvin Winans, who is a long-time friend of the Houston family, will be delivering the eulogy, CNN reports. The service will be in a smaller and more cherished setting for family and friends of the ill-fated star. Publicists confirmed that of the 1,500 people attending the service, nearly a dozen celebrities will be sitting in the sought-after "invitation-only" seats. The funeral service will be broadcast this Saturday,...
- 2/16/2012
- by HL
- HollywoodLife
New York -- They won't be there in person, but singer Whitney Houston's millions of fans worldwide will be able to share in her homecoming service Saturday as they watch her private funeral on the Internet.
It will provide a much-needed connection for fans who have lacked a formal place to eulogize Houston, one of the world's best-selling artists who died in Beverly Hills, Calif., on Saturday at the age of 48.
Some have gathered and placed flowers outside the Newark, N.J., church where the funeral will be held by invitation-only at the request of Houston's family, who wish to maintain some privacy. Others have stopped by the funeral home. But many have longed to share more fully in commemorating the superstar's life, and have shown their grief in one of the few ways available to them – by buying her music.
Houston's funeral will be at New Hope Baptist Church,...
It will provide a much-needed connection for fans who have lacked a formal place to eulogize Houston, one of the world's best-selling artists who died in Beverly Hills, Calif., on Saturday at the age of 48.
Some have gathered and placed flowers outside the Newark, N.J., church where the funeral will be held by invitation-only at the request of Houston's family, who wish to maintain some privacy. Others have stopped by the funeral home. But many have longed to share more fully in commemorating the superstar's life, and have shown their grief in one of the few ways available to them – by buying her music.
Houston's funeral will be at New Hope Baptist Church,...
- 2/16/2012
- by AP
- Huffington Post
Aretha Franklin will reportedly sing at Houston's funeral in New Jersey.
By Gil Kaufman
Whitney Houston in 1995
Photo: 20th Century Fox/Getty Images
While Whitney Houston's funeral on Saturday in her native New Jersey will be a private affair, the singer's fans have been given a chance to be there in spirit.
According to the Associated Press, the funeral for the star who died at age 48 on Saturday of as-yet-undetermined causes, will be streamed live over the Internet. The service at Houston's childhood house of worship, New Hope Baptist Church, will be broadcast by the wire service, which will also offer the feed to other broadcasters to air on television.
Grammy-winning gospel singer and longtime family friend Marvin Winans will provide the eulogy and legendary soul diva and Houston's godmother, Aretha Franklin, will also reportedly take part in the service. Afterwards, Houston will be buried in the Fairview Cemetery in Westfield,...
By Gil Kaufman
Whitney Houston in 1995
Photo: 20th Century Fox/Getty Images
While Whitney Houston's funeral on Saturday in her native New Jersey will be a private affair, the singer's fans have been given a chance to be there in spirit.
According to the Associated Press, the funeral for the star who died at age 48 on Saturday of as-yet-undetermined causes, will be streamed live over the Internet. The service at Houston's childhood house of worship, New Hope Baptist Church, will be broadcast by the wire service, which will also offer the feed to other broadcasters to air on television.
Grammy-winning gospel singer and longtime family friend Marvin Winans will provide the eulogy and legendary soul diva and Houston's godmother, Aretha Franklin, will also reportedly take part in the service. Afterwards, Houston will be buried in the Fairview Cemetery in Westfield,...
- 2/16/2012
- MTV Music News
The private funeral service for Whitney Houston, to be held at her childhood house of worship, the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, N.J., will be streamed online. Family friend Marvin Winans will deliver the eulogy and Houston’s godmother, Aretha Franklin, reportedly will participate. Fans can follow the event, to be held on Saturday, here. Meanwhile, a YouTube video has surfaced of Franklin paying tribute to the late singer at a private concert in North Carolina. In the video from the McGlohon Theatre,...
- 2/16/2012
- by Lyneka Little
- Speakeasy/Wall Street Journal
Although the funeral service for Whitney Houston will be invitation-only, it has been revealed that Houston's fans will be given the opportunity to view the service on the internet.
Whitney Houston Funeral Details
Fans have been leaving notes and flowers in front of the church in New Jersey where the funeral will be held. They have also been commemorating the best-selling artist by buying Houston's music.
Report: Whitney Drank Heavily The Week She Died
The funeral will take place on Saturday at New Hope Baptist Church, where Whitney sang as a child.
Whitney Houston's Death Certificate Details
Her eulogy will be given by gospel singer Marvin Winans, a longtime family friend. Houston will be buried in the same cemetery in which her father was buried in 2003.
Et's Complete Whitney Houston Coverage...
Whitney Houston Funeral Details
Fans have been leaving notes and flowers in front of the church in New Jersey where the funeral will be held. They have also been commemorating the best-selling artist by buying Houston's music.
Report: Whitney Drank Heavily The Week She Died
The funeral will take place on Saturday at New Hope Baptist Church, where Whitney sang as a child.
Whitney Houston's Death Certificate Details
Her eulogy will be given by gospel singer Marvin Winans, a longtime family friend. Houston will be buried in the same cemetery in which her father was buried in 2003.
Et's Complete Whitney Houston Coverage...
- 2/16/2012
- Entertainment Tonight
Whitney Houston's funeral will be held this Saturday in her hometown of Newark, New Jersey, but it won't be quite the private affair you might expect: the funeral will be broadcast over the internet, to allow her fans a chance to witness the ceremony. According to her publicist, Kristen Foster, Houston's family — I assume; I'm not sure who else would be the ones to give permission — will allow the Associated Press to stream the event (available here) as well as satellite broadcasters. Details about the service are scarce, but here is what we have learned at the moment: Houston's funeral will be at New Hope Baptist Church, where she sang as a child. Her eulogy will be given by gospel singer Marvin Winans, a Grammy Award winner and longtime family friend. Afterward, Houston will be buried in Fair View Cemetery in Westfield, N.J., [...]...
- 2/16/2012
- Nerve
In 1990 MTV interview, singer says God chose her to 'take that voice I gave you and spread it around.'
By John Mitchell
Whitney Houston
Photo: 20th Century Fox/Getty Images
She may be best known for her soulful ballads and upbeat pop tunes, but gospel music was Whitney Houston's first musical love. The singer developed her powerful voice in the church and told MTV in 1997 that the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, New Jersey, where her funeral will be held on Saturday, was her family's "second home."
"My root is gospel. My root is not R&B; my root is gospel music," Houston said in a 1990 interview featured in Wednesday night's MTV special "Whitney Houston: In Her Own Words." "And gospel is not something that you can categorize. It's not black, it's not white; it comes from the soul. It is a feeling that comes from the soul.
By John Mitchell
Whitney Houston
Photo: 20th Century Fox/Getty Images
She may be best known for her soulful ballads and upbeat pop tunes, but gospel music was Whitney Houston's first musical love. The singer developed her powerful voice in the church and told MTV in 1997 that the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, New Jersey, where her funeral will be held on Saturday, was her family's "second home."
"My root is gospel. My root is not R&B; my root is gospel music," Houston said in a 1990 interview featured in Wednesday night's MTV special "Whitney Houston: In Her Own Words." "And gospel is not something that you can categorize. It's not black, it's not white; it comes from the soul. It is a feeling that comes from the soul.
- 2/16/2012
- MTV Music News
By Barry Carter and James Quelly
Religion News Service
Newark, N.J. (Rns) Grammy Award winner and longtime family friend Marvin Winans will deliver the eulogy for Whitney Houston during her funeral Saturday (Feb. 18) at the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, the church pastor said Tuesday night.
Houston's family rejected a public final farewell to the pop icon, choosing instead to hold a private, invitation-only funeral at New Hope, the singer's childhood church, which seats about 1,500. The Rev. Joe A. Carter, pastor at New Hope Baptist Church, said he will officiate the service, scheduled to begin at noon. Houston was born in Newark and raised in nearby East Orange.
Winans, who also serves as the lead pastor at Detroit's Perfecting Church, told the Detroit Free Press that he felt like he had lost a sibling when he learned the 48-year-old singer had died Saturday in Beverly Hills, Calif.
Houston's mother,...
Religion News Service
Newark, N.J. (Rns) Grammy Award winner and longtime family friend Marvin Winans will deliver the eulogy for Whitney Houston during her funeral Saturday (Feb. 18) at the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, the church pastor said Tuesday night.
Houston's family rejected a public final farewell to the pop icon, choosing instead to hold a private, invitation-only funeral at New Hope, the singer's childhood church, which seats about 1,500. The Rev. Joe A. Carter, pastor at New Hope Baptist Church, said he will officiate the service, scheduled to begin at noon. Houston was born in Newark and raised in nearby East Orange.
Winans, who also serves as the lead pastor at Detroit's Perfecting Church, told the Detroit Free Press that he felt like he had lost a sibling when he learned the 48-year-old singer had died Saturday in Beverly Hills, Calif.
Houston's mother,...
- 2/16/2012
- by Jahnabi Barooah
- Huffington Post
Could Whitney Houston have predicted her own death?
Just days before the songstress was found dead in her hotel room on Feb. 11, friends said Houston said she "wanted to see Jesus" and "felt her time was coming," TMZ reports.
In addition, Houston was reportedly discussing Bible passages, including Matthew: 3:16 and Matthew 3:17, which read:
As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.
Houston began her career by singing gospel music with her mother, Cissy Houston, at New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, N.J.
Church members mourned her death on Feb. 12 by praying for her family.
Gospel singer Marvin Winans will deliver the eulogy at Houston's funeral on Feb.
Just days before the songstress was found dead in her hotel room on Feb. 11, friends said Houston said she "wanted to see Jesus" and "felt her time was coming," TMZ reports.
In addition, Houston was reportedly discussing Bible passages, including Matthew: 3:16 and Matthew 3:17, which read:
As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.
Houston began her career by singing gospel music with her mother, Cissy Houston, at New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, N.J.
Church members mourned her death on Feb. 12 by praying for her family.
Gospel singer Marvin Winans will deliver the eulogy at Houston's funeral on Feb.
- 2/15/2012
- by Ileana Llorens
- Huffington Post
Contrary to previous reports that Whitney Houston’s funeral would be a public event at the Prudential Center, the service will be a private one, according to The Associated Press. The funeral will take place on Saturday at New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, which holds 1,500 people, Whigham Funeral Home told reporters. Gospel singer and Houston family friend Marvin Winans will deliver the eulogy.
Meanwhile, a source close to Bobby Brown denied TMZ’s story that Whitney’s family was preventing Bobby Brown from seeing daughter Bobbi Kristina and from attending the funeral. While Houston’s family is in New Jersey, her 18-year-old daughter remains in California with her father and Brown’s other children, ABC News reports.
“My daughter Bobbi Kristina is doing much better,” Brown said in a statement on Tuesday. “We continue to provide love and support to Bobbi Kristina. She is dealing with the tragedy of...
Meanwhile, a source close to Bobby Brown denied TMZ’s story that Whitney’s family was preventing Bobby Brown from seeing daughter Bobbi Kristina and from attending the funeral. While Houston’s family is in New Jersey, her 18-year-old daughter remains in California with her father and Brown’s other children, ABC News reports.
“My daughter Bobbi Kristina is doing much better,” Brown said in a statement on Tuesday. “We continue to provide love and support to Bobbi Kristina. She is dealing with the tragedy of...
- 2/15/2012
- by Sabrina Rojas Weiss
- TheFabLife - Movies
Whitney Houston's funeral will be presided over by her longtime friend, Pastor Marvin Winans, the Detroit Free Press reports. Winans, of the Detroit-based Perfecting Church, tells the paper that he will deliver the homily for the deceased singer at the request of Houston's mother, Cissy Houston. Also read: Whitney Houston's Funeral to Be Held at Church She Attended as a Child He had known "I Will Always Love You" singer Houston since the release of her first, self-titled album in the 1980s. Winans told the paper that he had last seen Houston in...
- 2/15/2012
- by Tim Kenneally
- The Wrap
As Whitney Houston's body was being flown from Los Angeles to New Jersey today, plans were coming together for the late singer's funeral. I just got word that… Her longtime friend, the Rev. Marvin Winans, will likely deliver the eulogy, according to a source. The Michigan-based pastor—and brother of gospel artists BeBe and CeCe Winans—officiated Houston's wedding to Bobby Brown in 1992. Winans heads Detroit's Perfecting Church, a ministry he founded. Houston was interviewed by the New York Daily News after attending a service at the church a few years ago. "I've had a great time," she told the newspaper. "If I closed my eyes ...
- 2/14/2012
- E! Online
Newark, N.J. (AP) -- Whitney Houston's funeral will be held Saturday in the church where she first showcased her singing talents as a child, her family choosing to remember her in a private service rather than in a large event at an arena. The owner of the Whigham Funeral Home said Tuesday that the funeral will be held at noon at Newark's New Hope Baptist Church, which seats up to 1,500. Gospel singer Marvin Winans, a Grammy Award winner and longtime family friend, has been chosen to give the eulogy, his son said. The family said no public memorial service is planned at this time. Officials had discussed the possibility of holding a memorial at the Prudential Center, a major sports and entertainment venue that can seat about 18,000 people, but the funeral home said it had been ruled out. Funeral home owner Carolyn Whigham said the church service will be by invitation only,...
- 2/13/2012
- by tooFab Staff
- TooFab
Blu-ray & DVD Release Date: Feb. 14, 2012
Price: DVD Tba
Studio: 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment
Musical movie Mama, I Want To Sing is based on the off-Broadway hit play by Vy Higginsen.
The film stars multi-platinum-selling artist Ciara as Amara, a young gospel singer who dreams of pop stardom, naturally. Discovered by agents, Amara is swept away from her tight-knit community for recording sessions and television appearances.
As she pursues her music career, however, Amara’s relationship with her preacher mother (Lynn Whitfield, The Women) is strained, as her mother wants her to stay grounded. As she navigates the often treacherous world of celebrity and still remain true to herself and her family, Amara turns to her father (Marvin Winans, TV’s House of Payne) and Sister Carrie (Patti Labelle, Semi-Pro) for support.
Rated PG, Mama, I Want To Sing also stars Billy Zane (Sniper Reloaded), Hill Harper (For Colored Girls...
Price: DVD Tba
Studio: 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment
Musical movie Mama, I Want To Sing is based on the off-Broadway hit play by Vy Higginsen.
The film stars multi-platinum-selling artist Ciara as Amara, a young gospel singer who dreams of pop stardom, naturally. Discovered by agents, Amara is swept away from her tight-knit community for recording sessions and television appearances.
As she pursues her music career, however, Amara’s relationship with her preacher mother (Lynn Whitfield, The Women) is strained, as her mother wants her to stay grounded. As she navigates the often treacherous world of celebrity and still remain true to herself and her family, Amara turns to her father (Marvin Winans, TV’s House of Payne) and Sister Carrie (Patti Labelle, Semi-Pro) for support.
Rated PG, Mama, I Want To Sing also stars Billy Zane (Sniper Reloaded), Hill Harper (For Colored Girls...
- 12/9/2011
- by Sam
- Disc Dish
Chicago – Tyler Perry has made a fortune with films that play off easy comedy and obvious moral messages. He weaves common themes into modern entertainment that usually connects with audiences but not critics. Usually. Perry’s “I Can Do Bad All By Myself” surprised many of the critics who sought it out, displaying a new confidence in Perry’s direction, only held back by minor flaws that viewers will easily overlook on the home market.
Blu-Ray Rating: 3.0/5.0
The great Taraji P. Henson adds genuine character (something often missing from Perry’s work) to the lead role of selfish, alcoholic nightclub singer April, a woman thrown into a mostly predictable, life-changing situation when her niece and two nephews appear on her doorstep. It turns out that the streetwise urchins were caught breaking into the home of the already-legendary Madea (Perry himself) after their own guardian went missing. So, now they come to their Aunt April,...
Blu-Ray Rating: 3.0/5.0
The great Taraji P. Henson adds genuine character (something often missing from Perry’s work) to the lead role of selfish, alcoholic nightclub singer April, a woman thrown into a mostly predictable, life-changing situation when her niece and two nephews appear on her doorstep. It turns out that the streetwise urchins were caught breaking into the home of the already-legendary Madea (Perry himself) after their own guardian went missing. So, now they come to their Aunt April,...
- 1/20/2010
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
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