March 6, 2010 started a new trend of local singers and musicians having CD release programs. Raymond Silver released his new CD project in style with a packed house present to witness it.

Arm of the Lord Ministries allowed Raymond to use their facilities to make this event possible. They are located at 2100 Airport Ave. in Fredericksburg, Va. The dining hall seats about 150 to 200 people and there was standing room only!

The original emcee couldn’t make it but his standby emcee did a magnificent job. Raymond’s sister, Barbara Smith stepped up to the plate and kept the program rolling. Minister Jason Lewis kicked things off with a prayer and scripture. Jason then led the opening selection, “Let it Rise.” Great job!

Another one of our local artists, Minister Clinton ‘CD’ Porter continued with the praise and worship by singing two of my favorite songs, "It’s Amazing" and "How Great is Our God." Clinton will be featured in one our upcoming issues. He really has a smooth sound and allows God to use him to minister. Great job!

The program got better and better as time went on. Friends, family, and supporters were rolling in. The Haywood Family Mimes performed two selections that were powerful. The family worked really well together. They came all the way from Jacksonville, NC to help support Raymond and his project. What a sacrifice. You will be blessed. Great job!

Just before the second half started, there was a small intermission with hors divers. I'd like to the kitchen committee: Fonda, Teresa, Kimberly, Bondara, and Shareese. During the intermission, I had a chance to talk to the sound technician.

Karl Stienbach is the owner of Apple Guitars, a local business specializing in guitars. Karl told me he was probably only using about 1500 watts of power to run the entire system. Karl was assisted by Nathan Silver who is also a sound technician. If you need guitars or guitar supplies you may contact: appleguitars@yahoo.com

I can’t say enough about the performance after the intermission was over. My group Faithful Connection came out and set the stage for Raymond. They really got the crowd pumped up. Jonathan didn’t hold anything back and the rest of the fellas were right behind him. With songs like "Let’sGet Down," "Wave My Hand," "Tonight," and "Leave it in the Hands of the Lord," you can’t go wrong. Impressive! Great job!

And now ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, without further a due, I present to you…Raymond Silver. What a Performance! Action packed from start to finish. Raymond did his thing and had the excited crowd on their feet. “Use Me,” featuring Raymond Silver II, started it off. The spirited crowd was clapping and grooving at the same time. Raymond moved on to “Heaven” and had everyone rocking their heads. “Count it all Joy," "Won’t let Go," and "I Won’t Turn Back" topped it off. A very nice selection of songs, backed by Clinton Porter and his choir and band, Raymond really performed. Great job, and I wish you much success!

I’m still proud of Raymond and all of the performers at the CD release. I will leave you with a few comments from the audience: “It was Awesome!” - Jonathan Mercer, Ray-Ray, and Kimberly Silver. “Awesome, everybody was professional. Raymond is a natural.” – Tracy Griffin. “Fantastic!” – Tyrone Adams. “They Rocked It!" – Brittany Silver. “It was Smooth!” – Tyshawnda Silver. “It was Absolutely Awesome! A great debut for a great artist!” – Clinton CD Porter. “I enjoyed quality music and musicians in a family atmosphere.” – Jason Lewis. “It was really an honor to be able to share in this event and I pray for a huge success.” – Bondara Buckner. “This turned out to be more than I could have imagined. I thank God for the vision and for making it plain in order for us to carry out His will.” – Frankie Silver. “It was wonderful to see each group with their own individual styles perform with excellence. I enjoyed myself. It was great watching all ages grooving to the music." – Deborah Adams. “God Bless you and thanks for your support. I appreciate everyone for making it what it was supposed to be." – Raymond Silver

Other local artists in attendance: Purposed Destiny, Richard Davis Spirit in Truth, and Angie Pretlow. More from them in the next issue.

God Bless and stay tuned for more exciting news.

By Author, Gospel Lead: Anthony Silver

Anthony was born in Fredericksburg, Virginia. on April 13. 1967. He has been a native of the Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania area all his life. He Attended Courtland High School and graduated in 1985. Anthony started playing the bass guitar at the age of nine and then moved on to lead guitar at sixteen. He has played for various artists and churches in the area and has recorded with over twenty musicians. Anthony has a passion for playing and listening to music. He has been inspired by guitarists such as Prince and Chuck Brown.