Being a gifted child comes with its advantages and disadvantages too! When you have usable gifts and talents within the Black Church, that can become a whole other level of problems, some of which you can share, and the rest, let us say many folks carry that part to their graves.

The Black Church is responsible for turning out many quality acts over the years, and we’ve heard all of the stories at one point or another. Aretha Franklin, Monica, Toni and Tamar Braxton, so many others. What do you do when it hurts regardless? Most artists tell stories of running away from the church/pain.

This week at the Urban Academics Roundtable, the chosen visionary is here to share his story around hurt experienced in the church because he was gifted and talented. All blessings, bad and good, come through people – But not all people can be who we want them to be. Until we know the circumstance, situation, or overall story, getting it all wrong is easy.

READ THIS PRESS RELEASE ON MANNY JAMES

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1. Enduring The Call; A 14 Day Journey, by Jocelyn Fagan ($14.00)
2. The ZOLA Experience: A Journey of Recovery From Loss, by Katurah A Bryant, LMFT ($14.99)
3. When The Heart Takes Flight, by Carla Yarbrough ($9.99)

This Week in The HOT-Seat

Manny James, Church Street South Entertainment, recording artist, songwriter, and composer, was born and raised in New Haven, CT. A singer and performer since the age of 8. He grew up in a community that presented many challenges. He says, “We didn’t have much growing up, but we made the best of what we had” Those days and experiences fueled the creativity you see today.

According to Manny, Church Street South, his childhood neighborhood, is honest and remains relatable today. Manny’s approach to life, songwriting, and performing come from Church Street South projects, what was once called the worst housing projects in America during the 1980s.

Manny says his music and performances give back to the people.  

“As an artist, I need to create from an honest space. Writing songs where people relate always makes the best music.”

Manny James, R&B Singer/Songwriter and Community Activists

Notabke Accomplishments

• Co-wrote and released the YouTube viral sensation “So Incredible” (The Julio Jones Dance) via a Visa/NFL “My Football Fantasy” campaign. The campaign garnered 4.6 million views in less than a week.
• Debuted in the Top 25 on iTunes (Just Being Honest)
• He established himself as an artist and songwriter before “Just Being Honest” hit digital outlets
• James brought no-holds-barred soulful and unique performances
• Headliner or opening act
• Known at many of Tri-State’s top venues

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In 2017 the phenomenal “Church Street South” release, named after the neighborhood he grew up in, led to his most successful year to date, gaining twenty-two thousand fans from 57 countries.  

What’s More?

In 2020 Manny formed his record label Church Street South Entertainment and released a new single, “Never Let Go.” The song is well received. A full-length album is next, showcasing unsung musicians and up-and-coming vocal magic. You can contact Manny by using the comments section below.

Are You New To The Weekly Roundtable

Who should attend? Administrators, CEOs, Child Advocates, Civil Service Members, Content Creators, Educators, Entrepreneurs, First Responders, Guidance Counselors, Journalists, Mental Health Professionals, Parents, Political Figures, Students, Upward Mobile Professionals, School Systems Interested in Change, Teachers, and People Involved in Motivating Our Students Higher (P.I.M.O.S.H.) Subsidiaries. GRAB a Seat HERE.

Do You Have Questions?

Use the Comments Section Below to ask questions or get in touch with this HOT-Seat Chosen Visionary or the Urban Academics staff. Ask away, and she will get to your questions and quickly as possible. CLICK HERE FOR HOT-SEAT INFO!