Patti LaBelle, Jason Castro - Christmas Concert in Garland, Texas

So, last night, I attended a special benefit concert sponsored by the Best Foundation to support the Garland, Texas Independent School District. Yes, it was in Garland, Texas and I was really there.

The event was great in so many ways. It is different than it would have been in many other places around this country where the name of Jesus has become a politically incorrect dirty word. The name of the Lord was actually lifted up and it actually was for "Christmas!" I also was able to attend it with many of the people I have come to know and love over the last year.

So, about the concert -- First, let me say that when I was growing up (and you know this already if you read my blogs), I listened to a lot of Motown (go google it). So, Soul and R&B are in my blood. Well, last night the Grammy Award-Winning "Soul Sista" herself, Miss Patti Labelle performed at the concert.

Listening to Patti reached back into my memory archives when she was backed by the Bluebells. Miss Patti told me herself last night that the Bluebells were getting back together. I was unable to find out if that meant they would rejoin her or be on their own (I know the Bluebells will be touring). That is great to know for those that are fans.

Check out the video HERE of Patti singing "Over the Rainbow" with the Bluebells. Patti also blessed us with that song last night.

Patti ended her performance by passing the mic to one of her current backup singers Mary Griffin whose singing praise to our God sent chills down my spine. Please check Mary out at MARYGRIFFIN.NET.

We were also blessed with the magnificent, spirit-filled, voices of the Hamilton Park Men's Choir who truly celebrated Christ in Christmas.

Ok, so now to the part of the concert that was my main reason for attendance. Jason Castro (you should know who he is if you read my blog or if you watched American Idol)--he was Patti LaBelle's special guest. Jason, who was a straight-A student, is a graduate of Garland's ISD and since he believes in giving and service, he came to give back to his community and promote education.

The response to Jason's introduction was overwhelming and filled with screaming fans and long applause. The locals that cheered Jason on through his AI experience, were joined by those who traveled from all areas of the U.S., as well as those who journeyed from Canada, Mexico, and as far as England.

The performance was just what we knew it would be--"Jasonnn"--Genuine, heartfelt, and filled with emotions. Jason shared his smiles and laughter with us in between the songs and sometimes during (like when he broke a guitar string mid-song.) Jason gets better and better and better with each performance. Jason also sang "Over the Rainbow"--the Bruddah Iz version we associate with Jason now.

The band joining Jason is known as the Heavy Steadies. They also played with him in Tulsa and will be with him for a while. The personalities of the members are very much like Jason's so no wonder they seem to "gel" so well. I can understand why Jason chose this bunch of musicians.

Enjoy Jason's version of White Christmas below (posted by Dare2Dream)



I am still in Texas and attended another Jason Castro event today as part of the ISD benefit program. He participated in Book Fair at the Garland Barnes and Nobles which proceeds were contributed to the Garland ISD. Jason also handpicked a few of his own recommendations. Two of my favorites were Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis and Irresistible Revolution by Shane Claiborne. (Thanx Jason -- I am a rebel for Jesus)

I will continue my post tomorrow and share with you some pictures and some of the special moments with special friends. (don't worry, I divulge no secrets :)
That being said, I want to give a very special thank you to Gloria and Sal and thanx for special times to Janine, Amber, and Melaine :)

ok, so I have to run for a bit--the Giants and Cowboys game will be starting soon. I am torn on this one and being in Dallas and watching the game is gonna be a trip.