Search - Sunny Hawkins :: More of You

Sunny is Phenomenal;Expect nothing less from Hidden Beach

K | Chicago, IL | 06/12/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've shopped at Amazon for years, and I have a LOT of CDs and albums, but I've rarely felt compelled to write a review. But this one deserves it. If you appreciate, no, if you LOVE good music in these days of generic copycats, you've got to buy this album.





I received a Hidden Beach sampler CD with Jill Scott's "Collaborations", heard Sunny's voice and was mesmerized. I was so excited about this release, and now that I have "More of You", I can't stop playing it. Her voice is gorgeous (excellent vocal control). The songs are beautiful. This doesn't sound like a lot of other gospel albums, and I am impressed by the various genres I hear influencing this project. I listen to almost every kind of music out there, and most artists don't have the range or talent to touch upon so many styles at once without enlisting the help of 20 different producers: Christian /gospel/inspirational, R&B, funk, pop, rock. Oh, did I mention that Sunny and Jamie wrote and produced this album themselves with little help? They've each written for other artists, as well. The title track has a Chaka Khan-like-funk groove to it, and "Alright" goes into the realm of Christian Rock. "Love Me Too" has a message that everyone really needs to hear. But the songs that bring me to my knees...and tears, are "Its Like Air" which expresses knowing God's love, and "Crazy" a love song for her husband Jamie (and another talented artist) which could be a love song to God, as well.





I can always count on Hidden Beach to come with something interesting. They could market this album in so many different ways, and it will be interesting to see what happens. But, I hope that Sunny Hawkins' "More of You" sells well, that her message gets out, and that people recognize Sunny's and Jamie's talents. From my heart, I truly wish them the best and much success. I give them a standing ovation for being original. I really love this CD!!!"

Forcast: Sunny all day.

Percy Williams | New York City | 06/18/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Passionate, angelic, eloquent, expressive and anointed are the words that come to mind as I best describe "More Of You" by Sunny Hawkins.



During and after listening to this project, one question continues to repeat itself to me and that is, "why don't more of today's gospel artists offer this level of originality?" Sunny Hawkins fearlessly steps out of the proverbial "gospel music box" to spread the message of the gospel to all who will listen and if marketed successfully, a lot of ears are going to hear her message. "More of You" is certainly not your grandma's gospel; this is today's gospel.



Sunny's vocals are regal, (a reality I experienced after once hearing her on stage in the Broadway hit "Rent"). The production, shared with her husband, Jamie, is nothing short of flawless and the substance of each composition is arresting. Visited here are various musical flavors, including Urban Contemporary, Christian Contemporary, R&B, Pop and even Rock, but when asked to define this sound in her own words, Sunny labels it: "Urban Inspirational". My faves on this CD include: "More Of You", "Daddy's Got You Now", "Where Would I Be", "It's Like Air", "Jesus The Same", "You're Everything", "Love Me Too", "Alright" and "What If".



Radio and not limited to Christian or Gospel radio, should find this recording very engaging to its listeners. My only apprehension here is that gospel radio may totally overlook this fine effort, misinterpreting some of its content. However, I may be wrong; once they realize she is the daughter-in law of Walter and Tramaine Hawkins, they may be compelled to afford her greater consideration. [...]"

BEST ALBUM EVER!!!!!!

F. Salley | Washington, DC | 10/02/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I listen to all types of gospel music. I have underground and mainstream gospel. I have classical, urban, traditional, and "hip hop" gospel music. After years of purchases I must say Sunny Hawkins has the best cd I have ever heard. I can listen to every song without skipping (that's a feat for me). Her vocals are umcomparable. Sunny's range is crazy, from Lisa McClendon's alto to Karen Clark-Sheard's contrasoprano. She can jazz it up like Anita Baker and rock out like Toby Mac. This is one purchase that I do not regret."