People Get Ready

Born in New Jersey and hailing from Sacramento, California, Gospel Dream 2008 winner Melinda Watts began singing at the age of six at her preschool graduation. "I've always had a love of music and I have been singing in my church my whole life," she says, "God's grace brought me here... a lot of faith in God and remembering that it's okay to dream even when you feel you can't." Sharing the stage with artists such as Hezekiah Walker, Kim Burrell, Shirley Caesar, Mary Mary, DOnnie McClurkin and CeCe Winans, it's no surprise that Melinda would live out her dream on the stage of Gospel Music Channel's popular hit reality talent search series, Gospel Dream. Watts, the former high school English teacher who hardly looks older than her students, is set to embark on a "dream come true," with the release of her debut album _People Get Ready_ produced by hit makers Aaron Lindsey, PAJAM, Bernie Herms and newcomer Freddie Washington. Each standout track features Melinda's powerhouse vocals and a swath of Gospel and R&B sure to satisfy even the most discriminating music fan. After hearing such high accolades, one might think this talented young singer's new CD is entitled _People Get Ready_ as a nod to her remarkable breakout performance, and notably, the release does not disappoint. But delve into Melinda Watts' story further and you'll find her music is a reflection of an optimistic message of hope and encouragement and the real reason for such a title.