Israel & New Breed recorded ALIVE in South Africa during two filled-to-capacity concerts held at the His People Center in Cape Town, South Africa in August. During the concert, acclaimed jazz artist/songwriter and South African native Jonathan Butler and local Cape Town musicians joined Israel & New Breed on stage.
Recording the album in South Africa has been a dream for Israel, who spent a total of two weeks in South Africa preparing for and recording ALIVE in South Africa. One of the most memorable things about the trip was a visit to Babumelele Children’s Home with Bishop Charles E. Blake, president of Save Africa’s Children, a U.S.-based ministry which provides orphan care projects for babies and children who have lost both parents to AIDS, famine and war throughout Sub-Sahara Africa.
“What is captured I hope on the CD is the culmination of all the incredible experiences we had while in South Africa,” said Israel. “The people of South Africa are a precious people and we were so blessed by the joy and faithfulness they showed us, and it definitely made this recording experience the most meaningful I’ve ever been associated with.”
New Breed co-founders Israel and Aaron Lindsay produced the album’s 20+ tracks including new songs written by the two. Butler also wrote a song for the album called “Come and Let Us Sing.” Alive in South Africa’s first radio single is “Not Forgotten.”
Israel & New Breed will begin a three week promotional tour in mid-October. Additionally, Israel has been named a co-host, along with CeCe Winans and Vicki Winans, for the 21st Annual Stellar Awards which is scheduled for January 21, 2006 in Nashville, TN.
ALIVE in South Africa marks the fourth Integrity Label Group album on which Israel & New Breed have appeared. Their discography includes 2001’s New Season, 2002’s Real and last year’s gold-certified Live From Another Level, which received a GRAMMY Award nomination. Long known in praise and worship circles for their songwriting and unique blend of music styles, 2005 was Israel & New Breed’s best year. The group kicked off ’05 by winning two Stellar Awards (CD of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year), a Soul Train Award (Best Gospel Album) and two Dove Awards (Contemporary Gospel Album and Contemporary Gospel Song).
Originally formed in the mid 90s, the group is a music ministry organization. It is comprised of musicians and singers who serve within their respective churches and also tour extensively throughout the U.S. and abroad serving the Church at large.
