Billboard Ranks Light Records as #1 Independent Gospel Label

Nashville, TN—In what is unquestionably the worst of times for the music business, Light Records has risen amongst the ranks of Gospel labels to be recognized as the fifth ranked label in Billboards Year End Gospel Chart. With the top four spots being dominated by major labels, Light Records is the only independent label on the list earning it the title of #1 Independent Gospel Label in 2008.

Sticking with a formula of exceptional artists, inspired music and top drawer production, Light Records marketing strategy is one of focus, with limited releases and an extended commitment to each release.

Light Records began 2008 with a new project from the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship, presented by Bishop Paul S. Morton, entitled Praise & Worship: Embracing the Next Dimension, directed by Elder William Murphy. DVD’s were released by JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise, with their video debut of Exalted: Live in Baltimore, and Pastor Shirley Caesar’s After 40 Years: Still Sweeping Through the City. The fall was met with the solo debut of Christianaires front-man, Paul Porter with A New Day. Rounding out the year was Bishop Paul S. Morton & the Full Gospel Fellowship Mass Choir’s Cry Your Last Tear, Paul Morton’s Christmas, and A Coko Christmas.

Other highlights of 2008 included Bishop Morton’s Dove Nomination for Still Standing; Pastor Caesar’s Outreach Ministry Television Special hosting Feed the Children; and Stellar nods for Bishop Paul Morton, Pastor Shirley Caesar, and Youthful Praise.

Despite the dire predictions for the music business, 2009 looks to be a promising year for Light Records with new releases expected from Coko, JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise and Shirley Caesar.

Light Records, based in Nashville, TN, is a division of the Sheridan Square Entertainment and serves as a full service independent music company. Light Records is committed to releasing and offering quality Gospel music. Light Records is home to a diverse group of Gospel artists including Shirley Caesar, Bishop Paul S. Morton, Youthful Praise, Coko, and Paul Porter, among others. You can also visit www.lightrecords.com for more information.