(Bounty Soul Food Cook-off host B. Smith, event hosts Vivica Fox and Flex Alexander)

A budding Gospel Celebration that started off on radio mediums has grown so popular it has moved to television. And this year marked Allstate Gospel Super Fest’s 11^th annual celebration of being filmed.

When asked about the events stake in gospel praisehouston.com said:

“Gospel Superfest has become one of the nation’s leaders in gospel music entertainment television and production.”

(Bishop Bobby Hilton and The Word of Deliverance Mass Choir performing “GOD DID THAT THING“)

This year’s host were Vivica A. Fox, and Flex Alexander whose famous works include “The Hills Have Eyes 2” (2007) and “Man in the Mirror: The Michael Jackson Story (2004), just to name a few. He is also best known for the role of “Flex Washington” on the hit show “One on One.” Fox’s outstanding works include “Set it off” (1996) and “Soul Food.”(1997) And what woman could forget her role as “Shante’ Smith” in the movie “Two Can Play That Game.” (2001)

Vivica told EUR’S Lee Bailey:

“I’m excited. This is the third time that I’ve hosted the Gospel Supefest. I really enjoy it,”

“I think it’s a wonderful way to start off the year; giving thanks and praise.”

Not at all uncommon of gospel music Flex Alexander was moved by the spirit after a performance that he said reminded him of his mothers come back from crack cocaine after 17 years. When the Holy Ghost starts moving you can through the programs out the window.

Allstate Gospel Super Fest was held at Xavier University Soccer Stadium in Cincinnati, OH. Over thirty artists were scheduled to appear. Among those artists were The Clark Sisters, Shirley Murdock, Regina Belle, J. Moss, Ricky Dillard and New G, Vickie Winans, Karen Clark Sheard, Kierra Sheard, The Williams Brothers, Keith Wonderboy Johnson, Hezekiah Walker & LFC, Jonathan Nelson, and others.

Check your local listings for broadcast dates and times or visit http://www.gospelsuperfest.com/talent.html for more information.

(Tonéx with his mother the late Dr. E.B. Williams)

Gospel singing sensation Tonéx suddenly has to fill a void left in his heart after his mother Dr. EB. Williams passed away on December 28, 2009. Mrs. Williams left behind a legacy and image that will be kept and upheld for many years to come. Williams served as the assistant pastor of Truth Apostolic Church in San Diego, CA where Tonéx became senior pastor after his father Anthony C. Williams passed away in 2004.

It isn’t hard to distinguish where Tonéx developed his vocal talents from, following behind a mother whom during the 60’s sung for various girl groups and on the edge of signing a recording contract until she was saved. However, she never lost her passion for music and over the years appeared in several choir and family album releases.

(Tonex’s parents now both deceased, his father Dr. Anthony C. Williams and his mother Dr.E.B. Williams along with his brothers)

Originally known as Betty Lou Williams, Betty was a very ambitious woman; she furthered her education at the International Apostolic University of Grace and Truth. There she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Education/Church Administration, a Masters of Theology, and a Doctorate of Divinity, all while holding the honor of Magna Cum Laude.

E.B. Williams continued to pursue her musical aspirations releasing a solo album in 2000 entitled Simply Because produced largely by her son. Tonéx used his mother’s album to develop and present his wide range of talents, many of which would come in handy when working with gospel geniuses such as Ann Nesby and Shirley Caesar.

(The late Dr.E.B. Williams solo album in 2000 entitled Simply Because)

In recent interviews Tonex expressed:

“I was eventually diagnosed with anxiety disorder. I never had that before, but as a result of all the events I developed it.”

He says in reference to losing several relatives including his father in the span of one month.

Dr. Williams had a great impact on several lives and was dedicated to serving God. She is gone but she will never be forgotten. Prayers are with her family in their time of need especially our brother Tonex.