BISHOP JOE SIMON: Time To Change

Bishop Joe Simon

Time To Change

© 2006 PARLIAMENT ENTERTAINMENT RECORDS (837101096645)

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Legendary R&B Artist and Grammy winner Joe Simon, who left the R&B music field when called to the Ministry. Now Bishop Joe Simon, has released his 1st Gospel cd titled "Time To Change". This cd has all the warmth and sound of "the" Joe Simon ( in a coupl

notes

Singer Joe Simon's Exodus
By Larry Buford

The Grammy Award singer
says he's seen it all,
but nothing like what he's seeing now!
Says he's "hurt...; painin'...; and saddened
because our government has failed us!"


Former Rhythm & Blues singer Joe Simon - now Bishop Joe Simon, the Evangelist Ambassador of the World, for the vast Mission Consortium of Churches International (M.C.C.I.), and the World Effort Ministries (W.E.M.) - recently signed a recording agreement with Parliament Entertainment under undisclosed terms and conditions.

And as a symbolic gesture to signal a turning point in his illustrious musical career, Simon announced the release of his new Gospel CD titled "Time To Change", on Thursday, September 8th at 12:00 midday in front of Detroit's Hitsville USA (the original Motown recording studio). He analogizes the biblical "Damascus Road" experience of his pilgrimage, stating: "I haven't released a recording in 16 years because God wanted to prove me as a preacher of the Gospel."

His new CD, with background vocals by Motown's Temptations (Otis Williams' line-up), is a powerful set that showcases his unmistakable rich vocals with the fire one would expect from the pulpit. Two songs caught my immediate attention: one that reflects the mood of America right now, "There's A God Somewhere"; and the fiery "Lay My Burden Down (Glory Hallelujah)" that vamps with the strong conviction, "this little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine"; are sure to be on radio play lists in no time. The CD is available in stores now.

A native of Louisiana, Simon believes the release of his CD is timely for the hope it holds for those affected by the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. Speaking passionately in a southern tone he says, "listen to me...I'm hurt because I'm human, painin' because we're losing a generation, and saddened because our government has let us down!" Simon has relatives and friends he still has not yet heard from since the hurricane hit. He promises that a portion of proceeds from CD sales will be earmarked for his home state, as well as Mississippi, Alabama, and other areas along the Gulf Coast. Monies will be distributed through M.C.C.I., and W.E.M.

Simon's career began at a time when gospel singers like Sam Cooke had expanded their careers into the popular music arena - an arena that offered not only a broader audience, but a bigger paycheck as well. He says, "black folks wanted inclusion in the American experience, and stepped up on the stage that would give them exposure and recognition in the mainstream. Our music was responsible for tearing down a lot of the social barriers of that day. Now with God's help, we are armed today to tear down some spiritual strongholds."

He goes on to say, "people always said the Temptations sounded like they were straight out of the church anyway, so for them to be a part of this is something special." Unlike some other singers who dally back and forth from Gospel to secular music, Simon vows to stay the Gospel course.

When asked why he never joined Motown he says, "I was courted by Holland/Dozier/Holland (the hit songwriting team responsible for many of Motown's hits), and I worked with the Motown musicians at a place called Phelp's Lounge in Detroit, but I didn't think I fit into the Motown machine. My voice was to be listened to, not danced to. I needed more care, and the fast-paced Motown didn't suit me."

Joe Simon - known for such popular hits as "Misty Blue", "Your Time To Cry", "Power Of Love", "Drowning In The Sea Of Love", and many, many others - began his music recording career in 1964. After speaking with him about his journey, and looking at a picture of him displaying the cover of his new CD, with the old Motown recording studio in the background, it truly appears Joe Simon has put the world behind him, and has no intention of turning back.

reviews

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  • Bishop Joe Simon Time To Change
    author: OWILLIAMS

    NICE ALBUM

  • the story must be told
    author: donna austin(Deloch)

    a great cd and my husband who just past away loved it it playd at his wake his name was Leroy Deloch and he said that he knew you he was from gonzales la. keep up the great work i will listen to it always

  • Glad You Came My Way
    author: Amanda A. Speed

    Bishop Joe has been one of my favorite singers for many years. I love no.9:"Glad You Came My Way." This is absolutely beautiful. My prayers are with you and may God Bless you indeed and enlarge your territory as He continues to shine upon you, your ministry and your family. Keep working for God, I hear that He has the best Retirement Plan of all. I remain in His Service, Rev. Speed

  • Number 23 got me out of the chair and shouting right in my living room. This is
    author: Marie Jackson

    A Time to Change" featuring Bishop Joe Simon is praise, worship and prayer in verse and song. There are a variety of messages here. My favorite is the cut entitled Number 23 a bluesy and upbeat version of the 23rd Psalm .The first time I heard Number 23 it had me shouting and praising.Simon's phrasing keeps the foot patting. He is all that!! "A Time to Change" by Bishop Joe Simon is a must have for gospel music lovers.

  • "ANIONTED & GRIPPING!"
    author: PASTR S'WAYNE

    Bishop, you are proof that God is ALL-MIGHTY! These songs are alive and convicting in a way only God can make possible. This project is going into my collection IMMEDIATELY!

  • awesome
    author: james evans

    i grew up on joe simons music and this is joe simon at his best

  • Wishing you God's best
    author: Pastor Walter L. Ratcliffe

    Praying your CD much success in the Lord. If my dad was here (Walter Ratcliffe Sr.) he'd be proud of what God's doing in your life and in your ministry! waltrat3@yahoo.com

  • This CD is awesome! I can't wait to take it to the local Radio Sataion here.
    author: Brother Milton Bullock

    Hi Bishop! Your concert was just awesome last night here in Rocky Mount! I'm still high with my adrenalin running on fast speed! The CD is great, and your vocal styling abilities hasn't aged a bit! I can't wait to take this CD to the local GospelRadio Station here ni tarboro, NC! God Bless, and it was extremely nice to catch-up with you again! Your Brother In Christ-Milton

  • This CD is unmistakebly Platinum. Hopefully Listeners around the globe will be
    author: Co-Pastor Carolyn Smith

    This CD is unmistakebly platinum. I truly hope that radio and listeners around the globe will have the privilege of listening and purchasing such a gem. The music of this artist soothed my soul and truly embrassed my spirit. Music like this is not privilege often. I'm a young minister that has just had an awesome experience in musical history.

  • author: Teddy young

    Hi Mr.Simon, I have been trying to get intouch with you for many years I pray that this CD is a success. Your ex Drummer Teddy, your were my Mentor in the music business. May God Bless continue to bless you. Hope to hear from you Soon.

  • Excellent!!!!
    author: Simone De (R&B artist)

    I really love this cd. I admire you and your musical abilities. I pray God's continued blessings upon you in all your endeavors. The world over awaits you all over again.

  • Joe Simon At His Gospel Best
    author: Elder Paul Carrington

    I'm not surprised at the outcome of this CD, as Joe Simon was one of my favorite R&B singers (Your Turn To Cry). Bishop Simon now gives his unique voice to gospel music. I'm sure having this CD in one's collection will be a blessing.

  • Joe Simon At His Gospel Best
    author: Elder Paul Carrington

    I'm not surprised at the outcome of this CD, as Joe Simon was one of my favorite R&B singers (Your Turn To Cry). Bishop Simon now gives his unique voice to gospel music. I'm sure having this CD in one's collection will be a blessing.

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