Florida Bus Driver, Joe Russell Is Now A Finalist At The Independent Music Awards

LOS ANGELES (Top40 Charts/ Joe Russell Music) - After years of driving people around town, he is now taking them to the Lord. His new single/video, God Has Smiled On Me is a James Cleveland inspired remake that combines traditional with the present Gospel sounds of today.

Russell's I Give Him All The Praise is an incredible collection of religious and inspirational lyrics and melodies filled with honesty, insight and emotion. Songs include He So Amazing, Talking 'Bout Jesus, He Will Be Right There, God Is On Your Side, and the title song, I Give Him All The Praise.

His music, under the direction of Greg Minnick of Levelblu Music Productions, adds a solid foundation to Russell's exquisitely woven melodies, while Joe Russell himself provides most of the vocal harmonies. In the fall of 1998 they began collaborating on dance music. During the interim of their musical association, Joe was touched by the Holy Spirit and decided to begin his gospel-recording career. His long-awaited debut CD with 13 original songs and one cover is the result.

Joe Russell grew up in Miami, Florida where he was surrounded by music from blues to gospel, imitating singers and groups on street corners with his friends.

He joined the chorus at Jackson High School which provided him the opportunity to perform. He formed a group called "The Debonairs" and appeared in shows throughout South Florida. For the past ten years, he has performed professionally, honing his skills as a performer and songwriter.

George Rizov, Editor in Chief of Galaxy Entertainment -an absolute fan of Russell's music-states, "I Give Him All The Praise" is a soulful mix of pop, R&B and Gospel that will bring artists like Kirk Franklin and The Winans to mind. Yet what's so amazing in his unique voice is that you feel like you are listening to an old friend."

To check out upcoming shows or to hear a sample of Joe Russell's debut CD, check out his website at: www.joerussellmusic.com.