Out of the barrage of musical talent in the gospel music arena comes Elder Charles Jerone Francis II, with a sound that echoes youthful vigor and vibrant lyrics, while being saturated with hues of classic values of inspirational music. Elder Francis & Friends engulf the listener's ear with a comfortable feel-good aura that is undeniable even by the toughest of critics. Hailed as the Genialistic Innovator of Gospel Music, Charles Jerone is back with his latest release "Journal of Life" which is a veritable gospel music collector's item for both the singer and musician. Rather than returning to the urban contemporary formula, which worked so well on his first project, Charles diversifies the musical styles this time around. The Single, King of Glory has a distinctive percussive sound. Snares, synths, horns and guitar blaze like the anthem of a champion while the backup calls on the name of Jesus which produces a great climax to only take you into more praise with an old school feel, “God’s Been Good”. These two tracks are sure to have your hands clapping and feet stomping. Throughout the project Charles has inserted Journal entries that speak to the listener, sympathizing about the pains and struggles typically encountered. This is no sad project however; instead it is a project of rejoicing. It is because of the hardships that we are stronger. Several songs including Come In, One Touch, Fill the Room & Worship Medley take you straight into the heart of worship leading into a monstrous praise break. I believe this album does manage to cross many genres (praise & worship, jazz, blues, gospel, funk) while maintaining the integrity of the record. It's rare that the buffet approach to making music (a little something for everybody) results in something most will want to listen to entirely. The CD features singers such as: Serena Young, Renee’ Francis, and Lewis Banks as well as "The Band: Derrik Cooper (Musical Director & Keys), Rick Watford (Guitar), Autoro Whitfield (Keys), Kurt Kaniah (Keys), Jeff Smith (Bass), James (Drums).The new CD is sure to be a great success and Charles Jerone is one whose dynamic vocal fortitude is only strengthened by its skillful musicianship. For further information or inquiry please contact Flava Aid Entertainment office directly @ (585) 478-0876 Elder Charles Jerone Francis II As A Baby……. Elder Charles Jerone Francis II was born August 25th, 1980 at Saint Mary’s hospital in Rochester, NY to Charles and Pamela Francis. Reciting speeches, singing and playing instruments since the age of 2, Charles grew up in Rochester, NY under the guidance of his mother and grandmother. It was at his grandmothers’ church singing in the junior choir where God began to cultivate his talents and anoint him for the ministry. The Music……. Charles has been able to sing before he could talk. At the age of 12 he became the church’s organist and by the age of 18 he had become the minister of music. It is said that everyday he would climb on the piano stool and play for about thirty seconds. Well that thirty seconds turned into minutes, hours, days and now he is not only an accomplished musician but also an accomplished singer. It is said that Charles’s ear for music is impeccable. Through the guidance of God, Charles’s mother and grandmother decided to enroll him at the state renowned Rochester School of the Arts. He was featured in many shows such as “Mama I want to sing”, “Dream Girls” and “Little Shop of Horrors.” He also founded the One - Hundred voice plus School of The Arts Gospel Choir. During his tenure there he also studied voice at the World Renowned Eastman School of Music. With this secular knowledge and the anointing already placed on his life, success was inevitable. Charles has been featured in many concerts with various artists such as John Kee, Donald Lawrence, Hezekiah Walker, Vicky Winans, The Pointer Sisters, Nancy Wilson, Sandy Patti, Michael Bolton, Paul Anka, world renowned opera star, Renee Fleming and many others. The Ministry…….. On July 20th, 1996, Elder Francis received the baptism of the Holy Ghost and Fire. It was then that he recognized that there was a call on his life for the spoken word ministry. Two years later he attended Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte North Carolina, where he really began to work in the ministry. Charles’ charisma, excitement, music ministry and ability to speak truth to young people was the catalyst for many changed lives on the campus. Many have said that his God given anointing is life changing and causes people to want to better themselves. After a series of continual dreams Charles decided to move back to Rochester to pursue ministry. In April of 1999 Charles gave his official sermon. In September of that same year, Charles was blessed to become a licensed minister. After his return to Rochester he implemented several new ministry methods that promoted church growth including an annual Youth Word Conference, Praise Team, Sanctuary Choir, Praise Frenzy and the annual Community Day. A Servant of the Community…….. Not only did he dive into his church. He is also known as a community servant. Elder Francis is known throughout the city and surrounding areas for his community service efforts with young people everywhere. In 2003 he decided to return to his alma mater to become one of the directors of The SOTA Singers. As a result of his efforts the SOTA Singers have attained two Gold Awards and One Silver Award at the nationally acclaimed Heritage Festival. After enjoying this endeavor he then took on the huge job of coaching the step teams for the school. They are to date, the undisputed Step Champions of Monroe County. This caused a school spirit phenomenon that hadn’t been seen in years. One of Charles’ greatest and most memorable accomplishments came in 2005 when he wrote, arranged, directed and choreographed the Temptations biography. This sent the city of Rochester into Temptations frenzy and gave many young men and women an opportunity of a life time that changed them forever. As an Elder…… As a result of his hard work, on October 30th, 2005 Bishop R. L. Redding, a group of Pastors and Officials Ordained Charles as a Elder in Triumph The Church and Kingdom of God In Christ, the highest title attained in the church. God has truly anointed Charles to minister healing, deliverance, and life changing messages through the spoken word to adults and children alike. In Addition to that he is a Major Prophet with a Rhema Word straight from God. As a Husband....... "A Man that findeth a Wife findeth a Good Thing!" On Friday May 11th 2007, God blessed Elder Francis with the greatest blessing ever known to man. He was joined in Holy Matrimony with his one "True Love" S. Renee' Francis. The two now work together ministering healing and deliverance and helping the people of God to find their place in the Kingdom.