Damita: Gospel's New Diva?

By Jeevon Harris
For The Post

Damita (Haddon), a new artist on Atlantic Records, may have just released her first self-titled CD, but she is no stranger to the spotlight.

A former backup singer for Aretha Franklin and member of the gospel group Adoration and Praise, Damita also has toured with her husband, gospel star Deitrick Haddon, who helped her on this album.

Damita offers an array of different musical styles that include R&B, pop, rock, soul and gospel. With lyrics like, "The truth will set you free - if you don't stand for something you'll fall for anything," in the rock song "Truth," Damita proves her way with lyrics.

Her hip-hop praise song, "Life and Spirit Inside" and the beautiful ballad, "The Wedding Song" (which features guest vocals from her husband) describe how perfect a marriage is once God has stepped in. It is also the theme song for Bride magazine.

Like her music's versatile style, Damita has a list of talented producers that work on the album, including Teddy Bishop, who has worked with Toni Braxton; Bryan-Michael Cox, who has worked with Usher; and Kevin Hicks, who has worked with Aaliyah. Damita and her husband also wrote and produced some of the material on this album.

If you like R&B, gospel, pop, soul or inspirational music, then this is the album for you. R&B is covered because she has songs that can be mistaken for Destiny's Child. Gospel tastes are satiated because there is music on the album that can be mistaken for a Ce Ce Winans song. And inspirational sounds are present because of the songs like "If Ever" that lets you know whenever you need a friend at your toughest times, you’ve got one.

"Damita" is a must-have because of its different musical style that almost everyone will enjoy.