Dionne Warwick: Celebrating the Power of NOW

by Cyrus Webb

She is the Grammy-winning legend that has impacted the world through music for over half a century. Ms Dionne Warwick is a legend not just because of her voice but because of the life she has lived and continue to live. She is a perfect example of someone understanding the importance of the moment and living NOW. In fact, to celebrate her 50th anniversary in making memorable music she recently released a celebratory album called NOW that is not only pleasing her loyal fans but making new ones as well.

I have had the privilege of interviewing Ms. Warwick twice on Conversations LIVE, and each time she was nothing but gracious and appreciative. During the first conversation I was joined by Susan Violante from Venezuela , an author who told Ms. Warwick that her music helped her to learn English! What an amazing opportunity: to be able to impact someone's life in such a dramatic way.

As I spoke with Ms. Warwick for this interview she shared some with me what this 50 journey has been like for her. ""It's been a wonderful ride," she says. "I'm thankful to my supporters for 50 years. I basically thought that if I stayed true to who I am and sung the kind of songs that my audience expected of me then longevity was a given."

I asked her if she believed that what people responded to with her was the soul and the love that she puts into her music. "I think it's definitely that," she replied. "The music that I've been able to sing has grown. That is the beauty of music. It has the ability to live on and on."

Though she was confident in her gift and believed it could take her anywhere, even Ms. Warwick says she never believed she would be in the business this long. "I felt that my first 10 years would be it and I would go on to teaching," she told me. "But that 10 years turned into 10 more and on and on. Now here we are."

Because she is still here, she does understand the influence that music has in our lives. "Music generally has an amazing impact on people," she says. "I could never imagine a world without music. Artists are known as the messengers. I hope the messages that I have been sending have been effective and will continue to be."

Talking about the younger generations that are discovering her music, Ms. Warwick's says this: "I certainly hope they discover some really wonderful songs that were written before they were born. I want them to enjoy the messages I have been able to bring. " Thanks to the internet, that is exactly what is happening already, and this thrills her. "It's wonderful to hear all of the comments," she says. "I am humbled by so many young people listening to my music and enjoying it. I am glad they could jump on that train and take the ride with me."

Music is not the only way people of all generations are learning about Ms. Warwick. She is still active in her charitable work and her other businesses which include writing and even a fragrance. "As a youngster my grandfather told me that we are all on this earth to be of service to each other," she told me when I asked about the work she is doing to help others. "If my talent is the way I can do that then it's very easy to do." She then added: "I think that it's a part of what we are here to do. The messages that we send are vitally important."

To stay in contact with Ms. Warwick and her upcoming events and to get her album NOW visit www.dionnewarwick.info.

Recording Artist Estee: Reminding Us to Whom We Belong

by Cyrus Webb

When I compile my list of favorite female recording artists of 2012 there is one name you can definitely expect one name to be at the top of that list: Estee.

From the first time I interviewed her some two years ago I knew that she had a gift that was not only helping and inspiring others but truly blessed in a special way. Whether it's the singles "I Wouldn't", "I'm Still His" or the new track "Excuses", it seems that her music always comes at a time when it is most needed.

Estee has known all of her life that she had a gift, something that was special. It was further reinforced by her mother. She told me that its really been the past five years that she's used it for nothing but Gospel music.

When reflecting on how her voice is impacting the lives of others, Estee told me "I think it's an honor. I give God glory for it." The compliment, though, is not an ego boost for the singer/songwriter.She then added that the evidence of the music reaching people where they are is "proof that it's not me. I ask for God to remove me and have His way in what He wants me to say."

Part of what is able to keep Estee focused on her role in the spreading the Good News of God is the reminder of her own imperfections and flaws. She sings about this in the song "I'm Still His", and she expounded on it during our most recent interview. "I know that everyone has had their trials and tribulations. For me it is truly a blessing that I'm still here. I have a message to give that's God's message. He is using me to show that just my being here is a testimony."

The real beauty of what Estee shares is that it's not too late for her to turn things around. When we know we have fallen short and not done things the way we should, we have the opportunity to set things right. "We know who we serve," she said to me. "At the end of the day we get down on our knees and ask for forgiveness. We're His children no matter what. Don't give up. Start brand new. God gives you strength to move on."

To find out more about Estee and take advantage of the opportunity to be inspired by her music, visit www.omega7productions.com.