I became a Christian in 1995, while attending Morning Star Tabernacle on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Since that time I have worked diligently to make known God’s plan of salvation, which only comes through Jesus Christ. I am now a part of the leadership at "Lower East Side Fellowship", where I attend, minister and fellowship. Whether through hip-hop, drama, spoken word or just every day living; “I will continue to make fishers of men, until my lights reached its end.” "The Promotion" Released in 2001, "The Promotion" was a 5 song mixtape that was used to promote TRA's emergence onto the gospel hip hop scene. At the time TRA was apart of a rap group called The Lords Elite Soldiers, along with Tha Advocate. This mixtape generated a lot of local buzz and would serve a taste test for what was to come from TRA's first solo release... Songs Featured: - How Bout You - One Accord - Apologetics - We Choose Jesus - The Warning "The Promise" Released in 2003, "The Promise" is TRA's first solo project. He (along with his partner X.L.) managed to put together a deep rooted, heavenly minded album that promotes Jesus without fear or regard for the "opposing" belief system. In the song "If You Love Me", TRA exclaims; "You can rewind every song that's kicked upon this album, it's all about Jesus you'll never hear one without Him." "The Promise", touches on a wide range of Christian topics such as: Salvation, Worshiping Money, Proper Relationships, World Change and The Rapture." The album features TRA's partner, well known local gospel minister X.L. and also has preaching on the album from the one and only Pastor Joe Maldonado (if you are not familiar with him, Google him). Pastor Maldonado even gives an alter call towards the end of the album. This album has traveled across the country and has even been played on both the American and Canadian christian radio stations. So, if you are a fan of gospel hip-hop and enjoy bold, in your face music, that does not apologize for professing it's hope... "The Promise" is for you! Songs Featured - C.R.E.A.M. - Bro and Sistos - Love of my Soul - How 'Bout You - Destiny - Change - If You Love Me - Choose Your Weapon - Heaven, Hell or Prison - The Warning - Check It Out Now - R.A.M.S.X. (Bonus Track) "Can You Reach My Friend" A short play that TRA penned in 2000. The play was centered around a childhood friendship between Michael and Nilsa. Even though Michael had to move out of the neighborhood as a child, their friendship remained as strong as ever, even into adulthood. The play shows that both characters have had their fair share of difficult times and while Michael has chosen to tough it out, Nilsa has leaned on Jesus to get her through. Now at the end of his rope Michael has decided to come back to the old neighborhood and reunite with his old friend. His hope is that he would be able to find some peace and possibly begin to make sense of all the chaos that surrounds him. This play is both real and touching. It is sure to bring you back to your youth and remind you of that special "friend" that helped you get through your tough times. "The Verdict" A full length musical that TRA penned in 2007. The play was set in a court room scene. Jesus was on trail for claiming to be the Son of God. Characters from the bible were called to testify against and in defense of Jesus. Characters such as Nicodemus, The paralytic man that Jesus healed, The woman that was caught in adultery, Pontius Pilate and even one of the Centurions that witnessed the crucifixion were called to testify. This play had both humor and sensitivity and did a wonderful job of helping those that may be on the fence, bring fourth their own Verdict. "American Idols" A full length play that TRA penned in 2008. The play was set in a talk show scene. The host "Maury Springer" was doing a show on the topic of worship. Many celebrities (impersonators) who have been "worshiped" throughout their careers, were brought out to discuss the topic. Celebrities such as Elvis Presley, Shakira, Michael Jackson and Hulk Hogan made managed to take time out of their busy schedules to make and appearance. There was even a spiritual figure that came out to break down worship to the audience. Pastor, Deacon, Bishop, Prophet, Psalmnist, Doctor Calhoon Tubbs III, JR. PHD. is an unforgettable character that starts off on the right track, but things quickly begin to turn left. This play is filled with laughs from beginning to end, however it gives a very powerful visual of why your worship is only to be directed toward GOD! COMING SOON "Street Preachin" Release Date: 2010 It has been six years since I released my first album and I am now preparing to release my sophomore album. Many things have taken place in between this album and it's predecessor. Six years of marriage, A new baby, a new church and a deeper understanding of who I am in God and what He is calling me to be. I want to take the time to thank all of you that have traveled this journey with me, prayed for me and supported me in so many ways. I am looking forward to seeing you all at the album release.... Let us continue to be Fishers of Men! Carlton (aka TRA)