News of the signing came during a celebration concert at the Grenada Theater in the singer's hometown of Dallas, TX. Motown Gospel Co-Executive Directors Monica Coates and EJ Gaines were on-hand to make the announcement.

This year, Traylor's local artistry was catapulted to the national stage with incredible momentum, spurred on by his opening for Jonathan McReynolds' "Make More Room" tour and being featured on the pre-show stage of Kirk Franklin's second annual "Exodus Music & Arts Festival." Concertgoers have become instant fans of Traylor's captivating stage
presentation, precise choreography and infectious songs that authentically blend multiple styles of music, from gospel to worship to hip-hop.

In celebration of the signing, Motown Gospel has re-released Jonathan Traylor's career-propelling independent project, "Stones & Giants." The 12-track album, written almost entirely by Traylor and co-produced with his UK-born and bred music partner Mr. Damention, includes fan favorites like the hard-hitting "Purpose Over Pleasure," the lyrical "Brand New," and the upbeat anthem "Won't Let Me Down," as well as the worshipful ballads "Masterpiece" and "Breathe Life." Stones & Giants can be heard here: https://jtraylor.lnk.to/StonesandGiants.

Motown Gospel is one of the most prominent gospel music companies in the world, boasting over two decades of chart-topping and award-winning artists, albums and songs. A division of Capitol CMG/Universal Music Group, the world's leading Christian music company and market leader in recorded music, distribution, and music publishing, Motown Gospel's artist roster has included Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Smokie Norful, Tye Tribbett, Brian Courtney Wilson, Kierra Sheard, The Clark Sisters and more.

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The Rebellious Beauty: Gene Moore, A Blessing at The Birchmere 

By Jeneanne Collins

I recently interviewed Gospel sensation, Gene Moore about his new music release "Tunnel Vision" on Motown Gospel , his current tour, time in the industry and commitment to Christ. Gene is young, vibrant, energetic and humble. He looks like a combination of The Hamiltones & Kanye West. He's wearing camouflage, a large brim hat and a sporty a trendy and well-manicured beard. He looks like he's ready to hit the streets but he's here to talk to me about gospel music, his faith, and this new project.

Once you speak to him, it's apparent that Gene is an old soul with influences from Marvin Winans, Jason Nelson and Donnie Hathaway. He has toured with and has performed background vocals for gospel power houses like Kim Burrell and Kirk Franklin (to name a few). Gene is also currently featured on the Hitsville: A Motown Gospel Celebration Compilation with a rendition of The Jackson 5's "Never Say Good Bye". The depths of his voice, his sound and pure talent keep audiences of all ages connected and engaged. "I was influenced by the original Motown sound- Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye are two of my favorite singers".

Gene personifies a blend of the old, the new, and the contemporary. He is current in his presentation but grounded in true gospel culture.

His current project shares his deep-rooted commitment to gospel culture and music. It intertwines themes of staying razor focus, facing life challenges, and holding on to hope, faith and love. "Tunnel Vision" is embodied with God's light through song. "Don't give up" he states when asked about his messaging in his music. He continues to testify with "Ask for Rain" and motivates people with "Take Care". Gene never waivers with the message of trust, honor and how you need God first in "Depending on You". These melodic scriptures are inspiring and painfully honest. "I hope to uplift all people, I want to help the saved and unsaved." Gene's vocals bare witness to a journey through hills, valleys, and challenges of building your own relationship with God. He knows the power of gospel music and God's word.

Gene has the experience to be a veteran and the youthfulness to motivate and continue to inspire future generations. "Purpose is music" he states. Gene is progressive and motivated in his thoughts, works, and deeds. He hopes to compose music for "Green Leaf" and work with Robert Glasper and Chance the Rapper in the future. "God is doing great work in me" he states. Gene has proven to be more than a son of Motown, more than a leader in gospel music, and more than a beautiful Blessing@ The Birchmere

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"The Rebellious Beauty" column is written by Baltimore Stylist and Make-up Expert Jeneanne Collins. Email comments to Collins at JeneanneCollins@hotmail.com. You can follow her on Twitter and Facebook at @JenenneCollins and Instagram @rebelliousbeautystyle.