BET’s “Sunday Best” First Runner-Up Shari Addison To Release Debut CD In Stores January 13

New York, NY – Some may not be familiar with the name Shari Addison yet, but with the release of her self-titled debut CD, it will not be long before the world knows about this “diamond in the rough” gospel powerhouse. Addison’s musical recording journey began one year ago when she captured the hearts of millions on BET’s “Sunday Best.” As the first runner-up on the premiere broadcast of the program, Addison wowed audiences week after week with her powerful, gut-wrenching performances while winning countless fans along the way, and earning a recording contract with Zomba Gospel. The Chicago native is now ready to dazzle audiences once again with the release of her debut CD, SHARI ADDISON, in stores on January 13, 2009.

The first single, “No Battle, No Blessing,” was produced by Kevin Bond, 10-time GRAMMY® Award winner and 30-time Stellar Award winner. “‘No Battle, No Blessing’ is one of those Christian life stories that talks about people’s common struggle-that you have to fight the battle just to get to your blessing,” proclaims Addison. “Shari Addison is a name that the national and international community of believers will come to recognize and enjoy for years to come,” says Kevin Bond. “The raw power of her voice, coupled with the weight of her testimony, will leave an indelible impression on all who are blessed to experience the depth of her anointing. I’m delighted to have had the opportunity to work on her first solo effort.”

The single is reacting well at radio. Denise Hill, Program Director at WLIB-AM (New York City), says “Shari Addison’s strong soulful vocals are reminiscent of early Vanessa Bell classics. This song and this singer are on its way to that status.” Dr. Deborah Smith-Pollard of WJLB-FM (Detroit) says, “Shari lives up to the promise she showed on ‘Sunday Best’ vocals that should light up the phones on any Gospel show.”

Some of today’s top songwriters and producers in gospel music contribute their “Midas touch” to the debut release including Percy Bady, Donald Lawrence and Daniel Weatherspoon. The 10-track release blends traditional, contemporary, urban and inspirational gospel, showcasing Addison’s fervor-filled, inspirational vocals that can only be delivered from a person who knows what they’re singing about. The CD showcases the singer/songwriter’s vocal abilities by encompassing a broad range of song styles ranging from the funky beat-filled “Whatever” and “I Praise You,” to the traditional James Cleveland up-tempo classic “Please Make Me Better Lord,” weaving to the beautiful ballad, “He Does All Things Well” (which she co-wrote with Percy Bady), back to the good ‘ole shoutin’ “Can’t Make It Without Him,” featuring her pastor, Christopher T. Harris, Sr. of Chicago’s Bright Star Church of God in Christ (where Addison is minister and psalmist), who adds his own special flair.

“I am so excited about this project. I honestly believe that this CD is so relevant; it’s a project that will meet people wherever they are,” says Addison. “All of the songs are me, but it’s a multi-faceted me and exposes many different layers of my faith. It’s uplifting and encouraging and I believe that no matter what’s going on during your day, there’s something that will minister to you,” she explains. During Addison’s “Sunday Best” appearances she received unanimous praises from recording artists Pastor Shirley Caesar, Tye Tribbett, Stephanie Mills, Martha Munizzi and others.

SOURCE: GospelCity.com

MYSPACE: myspace.com/shariaddison