 NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Shawn Tate, veteran Christian record executive, entrepreneur, and CEO of 615 Entertainment announced today the launch of Univocal Records, a full service independent gospel record label with a focus on total artist development. This significant announcement coincides with the inking of a nationwide distribution agreement with Central South Distribution for all Univocal Records new releases, including the 1st quarter 2006 release of Walking In My Destiny from the award winning Chicago-based group, Malcolm Williams and Great Faith.
“Today is a key moment in the realization of a mandated vision,” says Tate. “Univocal Records is purposed to be a boutique imprint which concentrates on the discovery and development of diverse artists who possess a searing passion to communicate the gospel through song. Malcolm’s ministry embodies the characteristics of the type of artists we want to work with. He is a unique artist who inspires audiences on many levels with his wit, humor and most importantly, his relevant messages of hope wrapped in accessible gospel music.
Williams and his Great Faith ensemble, the label’s first signing will release the highly anticipated album, Walking In My Destiny on February 7, 2006. The 14 song set-produced by the captivating Williams and recorded live before a standing room only audience at God’s House of All Nations on Chicago’s far south side in February 2005-consists of infectious contemporary beats tinged with old-school traditional church flare which appeals to Williams wide demographic. The album also features several guest notables including the incomparable Kim McFarland, former signature vocalist of the legendary Milton Brunson’s Thompson Community Singers, popular Tyscot recording artist, Pastor DeAndre Patterson, and newcomer Paula Payden-Champion, a former backing vocalist of R&B superstar Gerald Levert.
The release of Walking In My Destiny marks the beginning of a business relationship between Univocal Records and Central South Distribution, whom will be the exclusive distributor of audio and visual products issued by the label.
“We are excited abut the relationship between Shawn Tate and his new label. I have worked with him for a few years and have a lot of confidence that he and his artist will be successful,” says Judy Copeland, Central South Distribution’s Manager of Sales.
“It’s wonderful to have the opportunity to work with Chuck Adams, Judy Copeland and the entire Central South team. They are reputable people with a solid and successful history in the distribution of gospel music,” said Tate.
In addition to writing the Walking In My Destiny album, Williams is also an in-demand songwriter, contributing a combined 20 of his exclusive compositions to more than 10 albums in the last 12 months alone. Recordings by gospel music notables Dorinda Clark-Cole, Dottie Peoples, The Gospel Music Workshop of America Mass Choir, Rodnie Bryant, Angela Spivey as well as, LJ Reynolds of the legendary R&B group, The Dramatics and more contain songs written by Williams.
Several promotional events are planned in support of Walking In My Destiny including a Spring 2006 Malcolm Williams and Great Faith tour of churches in major markets around the country.
About Univocal Records
Univocal Records™ is a 615 Entertainment LLC. The company along with Tate and Associates Entertainment Consulting, Inc., businesses both founded by Shawn Tate encompasses recording, corporate consulting, artist management, publishing, marketing and promotions. Mr. Tate’s career includes leadership positions within several major and independent corporate and arts organizations including Ameritech, Glidden Paints and EMI Christian Music Group-the world’s largest Christian music company-where Tate established a reputation for excellence in creating promotion concepts, product management, organizational branding, and new artist development. |
