Marvin Sapp at J&R Music In New York City

It was a nice sunny afternoon in New york city in late march. A crowd that numbered between 300-350 people were assembled waiting for the arrival of Marvin Sapp. Upon arrival Pastor Sapp did not disappoint. He started his short afternoon set with "I Came" the first track on the highly anticipated new release "Here I Am". He quickly won the New York crowd over as he and his background singers simply just came with it from the beginning. The track was very upbeat with a nice funky vibe.It definitely was a great opening track as it also begins the new album. For many people in the crowd it was their first time hearing the track and there was a very positive response. He continued with "Fresh Wind" and basically turned the retail store to a down home church building as he proceeded to shred the track with his masterful vocal ability, The track is a very melodic mixture filled with classic African American church licks and popular rifts. Even the record executives in attendance were bobbing their heads to this tune. Since the writers of the next track were also present he performed the track "Wait". This track sound like some funky R&B style track with lush analog synth throughout. I couldn't help tapping my feet and rocking to the track as Marvin Sapp continued to mesmerize the crowd. Before the track was over the whole room was rocking. Finally the crowd electrified as Pastor Sapp began to sing his hit single "The Best In Me". It was obvious that the majority of the crowd knew this song as they sang along at Pastor Sapp's invitation. That would have been enough, but There was one more track that would bring the house down after you thought it couldn't be brought down any more. When Pastor Sapp began to sing, "Never would have made it..." the crowd erupted with excitement. You had strangers singing " I'm stronger, I'm wiser..." to each other crying, hugging and giving high fives to each other. It was a wonderful afternoon which culminated with a CD signing meet and greet with a very humble and gracious Pastor Sapp. It was a very special treat for all those who came into the store in downtown Manhattan that day.