Mary                                                                                                   Mary

(cont.)

Update:

There are a couple of details I've discovered since writing the original Mary Mary blog that I'm sure you guys would be interested to know. In this recent issue of Ebony out on newsstands May 7, Tina speaks about infidelity and Erica addresses how she says, "God wants me to go solo."

Since my last blog, I uncovered some noteworthy symbolism worth the conversation. First things first, let's talk about the look of this Ebony cover--keep in mind, these are supposed to be "Gospel" singers. One might ask, why Erica would choose such a short, revealing, nightgown or almost lingerie-like dress to be photographed on a cover for millions to see. Can't forget the contrast of black & white which represent the duality of good vs evil derived from the checkerboard pattern found in Masonic lodges/temples; Tina's also flashing the all-seeing eye by hiding her  left eye--refer to my previous blogs for more clarity regarding that. But why the lacey black get-up? I'd say both of their looks appear to be inspired by the styling in Beyonce's Run the World Video. What do you think?

Notice the resemblance in the styling of Beyonce and Tina's hair; their dresses serving as a product of similar inspiration from the other "Run the World" looks below.

In my last blog I make mention of Erica Campbell of Mary Mary, being spotted at one of the 4 Intimate Nights (4 nights of exclusive performances by Beyoncé herself for only her closest celebrity guests) at Roseland Ballroom in New York City--August 14, 16, 18, & 19.

Again, I ask, why would a Gospel artist/self-proclaimed Christian attend a concert in direct contradiction of the beliefs of the bible/God.

This look innately resembling that of Lady Gaga in her Judas video, said to be channeling The "Whore of Babylon" or "Babylon the Great", who is mentioned in the book of Revelation (in the bible) as "the Mother of Prostitutes and Abominations of the Earth." As a Christian, rather aware or unaware, why haven't you consulted with your stylist (your younger sister) as to clothing that's not reminiscent of a character in the bible known for her representation as the pinnacle of prostitution. 

Here, Gaga is depicted as The "Whore of Babylon" or "Babylon the Great" in her video Judas. The bible makes reference to "the great whore that sitteth upon many waters" in Revelation 17:1. It goes on to talk about being dressed in purple and scarlet and being decked with gold and precious stones and pearls. Vevo even lists Judas as a recommendation if watching "Run The World." Why would you draw style inspiration or any for that matter, from two icons clearly known for nothing short of whoring. 

Another photo of Mary Mary strategically depicted to represent Light vs Dark or Good vs Evil

Now, let's get into where Mary Mary actually got their start. In this inclusive booking listing, it lists not only how they got their start, but who they sang backup for and artist in the industry they've written for. It notes that they've written for artists like 702 and Dru Hill. Keep in mind, the site will not allow you to copy anything, as this poses a serious risk to revealing who they really are (sarcasm*). This link was even rather difficult to access considering it's only listed on one area of their site and not widely promoted. It includes how Erica sang backup for people like Brian McKnight, Brandy, Terry Ellis, and Ray J; Tina for Kenny Lattimore and Eric Benet. Erica even admits to developing one of the Mary's in Mary Mary from Mary Magdalene. Really? Again, why would you want to be associated with a woman in the bible known for carrying evil spirits. Why not Sarah or Ester, notable women of the bible of stature and grace.

And I quote, Tina says, "I think one of the misconceptions about gospel music is that it's dreary or sad, or 'Oh Lord, help me' - something that brings you down. That's not me. I'm living in a natural world - first natural, then spiritual, my heart is still the same. It's just my relationship with God is always there. Being thankful or talking about joy just goes to the music I hear and that's how I write these songs." See link here

Wow. I think that's by far the most fleshly statement ever given from a so-called Christian artist to date! There's so much wrong with this statement I don't even know where to start. 

But of course I will attempt. While I do agree Gospel music can have a tendency to come off rather slow or sad sometimes, that's the nature of some songs when talking about pain or heartache. Similar to secular music, every song isn't written to be a club-banger, so why then expect every song on an album or in church to be an uptempo, foot-stompin', fast-paced song. It just doesn't work that way, & she of all people should know that! However, I do believe some artists like any other specialize in either slower worship songs or maybe faster praise songs, but it should never be a case of associating slow with something dreary or boring. Some of the most popular and inspirational Gospel songs are that of slow arrangements. It should never be referred to as bringing you down when talking about the Lord, the Bible speaks of the joy of the Lord being our strength. We know that in our weakness, he is made strong. So it should never be a place that we get to that we don't ask the Lord to help us, and if we do, that's the first sign of a backsliding Christian needing to be reconciled back to God. We know that the bible says, We are in the world, but not of it (John 17:14-15). And that we walk not after the lust of the flesh, but after the Spirit (Romans 8:1). We know that John 2:15 says, Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. Romans 12:12 says, be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind and 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. So I will never understand how someone professing to be a Christian can say, they first live natural and then spiritual when Romans 8:4 clearly says, "That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." If we are to become new creatures and be transformed by the renewing of our minds, how would your heart stay the same? Even a sinner knows you have to confess with your mouth and believe in your heart to become saved. How then could your heart remain the same? And she's doing just that, talking to the sound of music, and when the music stops, so does the joy she feels, conviction towards God (if any) and everything else associated with her heart. Being thankful should be a constant state of being as a Christian; joy, being a fruit of the spirit is a benefit you possess when serving God. It's only when you're pretending that it becomes an emotion similar to happiness which is altered from everything to the weather to a bad hair day. I can honestly say, based off that statement (and let's pray she's had a revelation since then) she doesn't have a clue of what it truly means to walk after God or live a lifestyle that's pleasing in his eyesight. Her reality show on WEtv shows this clearly every time I've tuned in--they never pray, never mention the name Jesus, I think the only time they went to church was to receive an award and one sister was late. I find it hard to believe that you're Gospel singers under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, but you spend no time talking to God or at least not enough deemed worthy of airtime. 

Warryn--12 year hubby of Erica Atkins-Campbell, is the catalyst of Mary Mary, crediting himself for the careers of the sisters and presenting them to EMI Music in '96, later leading to them signing to popular label, Columbia Records. He's produced/written music for the likes of Alicia Keys, Kanye West, and Mos Def which I think further adds to the overall direction the group is going in. I wasn't able to read exactly why Erica claims, she's being led to embark on a solo career, but I was able to snag this quote online from the Ebony issue out on newsstands May 7.

“I feel like my husband has been called to minister,” Erica explained. “Now I said, ‘Lord, when I first started dating this guy he worked for Death Row Records, but he was from the church. That was a perfect combination for me: a little street, a little church.”

Sounds like a lot of hypocrisy. 

Mary Mary is noted for sampling "Gypsy Woman (She's Homeless)" by Crystal Waters in their 2010 lead single, "Walking". They've also collaborated with David Banner in heir 2008 album, "The Sound" and T-Pain as producer of the widely successful "crossover" hit, "God In Me."

This video generated a lot of buzz on YouTube and among audiences for its dark theme and bizarre fashion. 

Watch below

I guess maybe this explains why they're reaching out to work with secular artists & maybe why Erica's bent on launching her solo career. 

Or maybe their drab new fashion sense?

Either way, we can call all agree this isn't the original Mary Mary we all fell in love with years ago, or that Erica is guaranteed a solo career. 

Beyoncé's - End of Time 
(Lyric/Song Analysis)
  plus bonus content*

First off, she's already featured on a song entitled, "Until the End of Time" by Justin Timberlake. So why then, do you think she would essentially reuse the very same song title? Well, let's see. Until means up to the time of or up to (the point in time or the event mentioned). Why would she release a track basically meaning "before the end of time"? The answer, found within the song. If you listen closely, the track begins faint and gradually picks up in volume; if you listen even closer, you can almost make out what sounds to be spoken in an auto tuned mutter. Chant-like, it's a repeated rhythmic phrase, spoken in a monotonous tone.


Audio Version

Before the song reaches it's almost explosion-like pinnacle, again, if you listen closely, you can make out the words leading up until the actual song begins; first you hear very faintly, "Walk with Jesus", directly following, "Walk with Satan". It starts when the song begins, but sounds almost like an echo funneled through a tunnel at first; as the song progresses and reaches the baseline it becomes increasingly more audible until finally, once the drum rolls stop, it's clear enough to be heard distinctly. The words "Walk with Jesus Walk with Satan" are continuously repeated both in the beginning of the song and throughout while she sings, "Say you'll never let me go". You have to listen very carefully because the ear tends to listen only to the loudest part of the song and not the background vocals. There's also some speculation that there's an overlay saying either "Fuck these people Fuck these people" or "Don't fuck with me Don't fuck with me".

Later, during the bridge she sings,

I just wanna love you 
I just wanna be with you 
I just wanna live for you 
I'll never let you go 
Free your love to me 

The part that caught my attention first was the "I just wanna live for you" line. Now I will analyze other parts of the song as well, just allow me time to get to them; I apologize for jumping all over the place, I wrote this blog down a while ago & I'm just now writing it, so things are kind of jumping out at me all over again. Now generally speaking, in terms of who you love, you don't live for them. The implication of living for something or someone is typically drawn when referring to a specific faith or belief in a higher power or entity. I've never heard someone refer to living for another human being, or something that wasn't referring to spirituality or God. This is why I found the last line to be most revealing; when one considers love, it being freely given is almost an associated assumption, unless of course it's coming from an outside source. The act of having to free love shows that it was once concealed, unwilling to be given or required something to be given first in order to receive it. This then implies, that something had to be done to free this love not willingly given, which we can only assume comes about by living for whatever this intangible source. I will get more into that after the complete lyric analysis. Rather blood or tears, it is implied that something had to be given up or sacrificed to attain "this love". Given the order of the song, it suggests that subsequently following living for something, a love of whatever sort was freed or unlocked. In any case, rather person or entity, if that something has control over both your life and love, that would pretty much define everything we're made up of. 


Below, is a clip of a live performance of the song; Ironically, the video I originally saved to use is now private. As a matter of fact, I want to say I left comments on the video and that might be why.

Notice, the dancers on either side. When she says, "I just wanna love you", the dancer draws closer, but quickly pulls back almost as if a force is pulling him away, then she turns and says, "I just wanna be with/live for you" and is drawn to the dancer almost insinuating a force pulling her in. This is representative of Good vs. Evil, God vs. Satan. Duality. Black vs. White--Light vs. Darkness or the battle between ones true self & its alter persona. In her case, who we've all come to know and some love, "Sasha Fierce!" We must also assume that there is one person she wants to love, and the other person she wants to be with or live for. She then says, (after live for you) I'll never let you go" "Free your love to me". At this point, the dancers behind her step up and almost cover her completely, symbolizing that she sided with the side to live for. Almost immediately after, she appears reinvigorated and begins dancing fearlessly in what looks to be a ritualistic pattern. The depiction of the dancers I believe is made to mirror the famous Michelangelo painting "The Creation of Adam in which Satan falls below God to tempt him (among the creation of Adam obviously). Ultimately, to be with God you must love him because God is love. To walk with Satan you must live for him--no love required. 

This song for me becomes a promise of what's to come before the end of time. It starts out saying, 

Come take my hand I won't let you go
I'll be your friend I will love you so deeply
I will be the one to kiss you at night
I will love you until the end of time
I'll be your baby I promise not to let you go
Love you like crazy say you'll never let me go
Say you'll never let me go
Say-say you'll never let me go
Say you'll never let me go
Say-say you'll never let me go

The first line says, "Come take my hand I won't let you go". This suggests that a deal has to be made by taking "the hand". It then says, I won't let you go, never once mentions whats got a hold of the singer or if the hold was welcomed. Whatever force has now vowed to never let go. Kissing is one of the most intimate acts one can commit;  affection, greeting, respect, or even reverence is among some of the things it refers to according to The Free Dictionary. Satan is referred to as "the Prince of Darkness or night" & is said, to be most active around the wee hours of the night or early hours of the day. Why would someone suggest loving you until the end of time? It would have to be a non-living presence. Anyone else would simply say, I'll always love you. Just ask Whitney. Well, we can't now, but yeah. You get the point! It, whatever the non-living presence asks for a vow of confession back by saying, say you'll never let me go. This says, that once I give you my love, you can't let me (the supposed love) go.

Next,

Take you away from here
It's nothing between us but space and time
I'll be your own little star let me shine in your world
I'll be your own little universe make me your girl 

These next two lines speak both figuratively and literally. Being taken away from here suggests leaving the world while space representing the time in between us (or them rather) and the amount of time it will take, as well as outer-space literally serving as space or a barrier between the time. That was a brainful--another word I made up (like mouthful, get it?). I'll be your own little star also speaks literally as a "superstar" of this world, but figuratively as a star of a greater world. Who typically owns their own world? The last line solidifies that if she accepts the deal as "girl" she can literally have her own universe or become the universe of his (Satan's). Or so she thinks.

The song then repeats, but notice

I'll be your friend I will love you so deeply

Deeply meaning far down or in: intensely, but not completely. So would that then imply that this love is intense, but artificial? Would it then insinuate that one could become friends, but not lovers? If in fact, you love someone, wouldn't you expect to become more than just friends? Looks like the lies reveal themselves when operating in deception, or should I say darkness. And we know who's "the Prince of Darkness!", don't we?

The next two lines that stand out are

I wanna provide this loving that your giving 

So now you see the deal was accepted, and the love was asked to be reciprocated. It is now a case of wanting to provide the love that is being received rather it being authentic or not. 

I ain't fronting in this love but can you let me love you from your head to toe

So now one is having to prove their love, asking for permission to reciprocate. Doesn't sound like earthly or even Godly love to me. 

If you haven't realized by now, boy and girl serve as code for a lot of hidden terms in music lyrics. Rather trying to express the love for the same sex and not being able to say it, or referring to a Satanic force that takes precedence over your own control, get it, boy?

Boy come to me
Let me turn your rain into sun

This shows control over ones universe or vise versa. 

I promise I'll set your heart free
And my love into your soul
You go I go we go that's all she wrote

This now goes back to the deceptive promise that was offered/by the looks of it taken by singer Beyoncé. "That's all she wrote" refers to the song, "Murder She Wrote" by Chaka Demus & Pliers which Beyoncé covered at her 2007 World Tour, "The Beyoncé Experience". The song talks about a girl who had an angelic or pretty face and a bad heart/dirty character. Ring any bells?

I hate to jump back and fourth, but I did promise to elaborate deeper after the lyric analysis. Freeing of love shows that at one point it wasn't exactly free, making it unavailable at one point or having come with a price. Christians believe that Jesus was crucified  for their sins and in doing so, He paid the ultimate price. Satan also believes in a price being paid to receive his lies (because it's not love), however he requires the bloodshed of one closest to you (generally a family member or at least at some point). More formally known as, a blood sacrifice. This is a popular tradition among pop culture to receive fame/fortune. It also goes along with selling your soul; this is the process that must occur according to the "elite" to achieve true fame/success. Some celebrities who have been suspected as sacrifices are: Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, Aaliyah, 2 Pac, Biggie, Micheal Jackson, Whitney Houston, Prince's father, Kanye West's mother, and even Jennifer Hudson's family. Beyoncé made headlines at the 2011 MTV VMA's surrounding her pregnancy. What people don't know is that she was said to be overdue for a blood sacrifice and that she's been pregnant before. And No, I'm not talking about her previous miscarriage. Although that could have been a sacrifice too because victims are considered to make several sacrifices.

In this performance below, she was said to have been pregnant for almost three weeks. I was living in Houston, TX at the time and it was even announced on the local news. In a recent interview with Oprah Winfrey, Beyoncé admits to being pregnant before Blue Ivy, alleging a miscarriage; why no one addresses this, or rather they don't remember (or choose not to anyway) baffles me. But I definitely do and will never forget.

You may ask why I'm choosing to make such personal allegations; I'm simply stating what I heard/saw with my own two ears/eyes. If she hid the baby in 2011, what makes you think she couldn't have done this before? She happens to be extremely close to her immediate family which is why I can't see her sacrificing anyone living, but according to Origins and Techniques of Monarch Mind Control which I recommend everyone read, abuse to become pregnant and fetus abortion is a method for ritual use used on mind-controlled victims or slaves. I know this ending is sort of abrupt, but I will leave you with this. 

In her words,

You gotta watch what u say. Because there are a lot of weak people in the world. They are susceptible to anything so anything you say or do some people actually do listen. So make sure its nothing bad. Its okay to be deep, but not murder deep.
Man! I really wish I could tell you guys what the industry really is and what stars are apart of destroying this world. The stars who worship satan,and those who have killed to get the respect they have now. You’d be verrrry surprised. Some of your favorite people pretend to worship God but they only do that to save face. Or seem innocent.

Satan was head of music in heaven. He uses influential people…to help influence the world. Think about that. Once u make a certain amount of money. Just know that that’s when they ask u to join. To get in you have accept the beast, worship. Once you join they assist u with ur career.make u huge.only if u agree and obey to destroy Gods word.and his children.
Ppl listen and pay attention. Its a war going on right now between Good and Evil. Evil will rule this world for a min. The people that have this power are the people that RULE the whole world. I’m done I won’t say anymore before I get in trouble.” - Tiffany Evans

Stay tuned for my next blog on a lyric analysis of another widely popular Beyoncé song from her fourth studio album release, 4.

Mary Mary (A Closer Look)

Given the fact that I gave so much historicity in my last blog, I will now identify/isolate recent noticeable symbolism in one of today's most popular Gospel duo's--Mary Mary. Some of you may know Mary Mary as two of the most well-known pioneers of Gospel music, if you will. They are most recognized for their hits like, "Shackles", "Yesterday", and most recently "God In Me". Nowadays Gospel artists are supposed to be able to appeal to all people, at least that's what they're told by their money-hungry record execs running the show behind the scenes; nevertheless, Mary Mary and the likes of Kim Burrell and Kirk Franklin are considered to be what they call (themselves of course) "crossover" artists. That in its self (in my opinion) is a bit daunting to accept, considering the word crossover means, A point or place of crossing from one side to the other. That, In fact, is exactly what Mary Mary has done. So now, let's look at their two most recent albums--"The Sound" and "Something Big" ...

"The Sound" which was released in October of 2008, features their "crossover" hit "God In Me" which was produced by secular artist T-Pain. There is also a track entitled "Running", in which I will discuss the significance of later. "God In Me" however, also featuring Kierra" KiKi" Sheard, has some interesting individuals that were chosen to represent "the God" that supposedly lies in them (which some would debate after watching this video). Notice also how even in the album cover (Erica) to the left of sister Tina, has only one eye exposed and is completely turned with her back to her sister. 

Mary Mary - God In Me (video)

Notice how the video begins on a red carpet displaying people like Common, Kanye West, and Kelly Price. ALL of which, with the exception of Kelly Price (who has since returned to secular music) are secular artists. 2 Corinthians 6:17 says, "Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you". How could they come out from among them if they attend the same events as them? But wait, there's more ... In the next frame Erica is featured wearing a black fedora with once again, you guessed it! An eye covered. Keep in mind, for all you Realists, Cirumstancialists, and Coincedentalists--yes, I made up the last two words. Circumstancialists base everything off each circumstance, and Coincedentalists blame everything on coincedence. Hollywood is a very intricate, detailed, well-oiled working machine and when a production of this magnitude is done, millions of dollars are spent to pull such a project off. This would mean stopping in between takes (every) to be exact. I was granted the oppurtunity to see what's it's like to be on an actual movie set so I can attest to this. There are few, If any mistakes or coincidences in Hollywood, everything is planned, accounted for and scripted. Time is money and if it takes a million takes to get it right, believe me, that's what happens. I don't think millions of dollars are paid to have a director follow his own vision & make you cover an eye in every shot. Doesn't happen, in fact, I know. The hair in her eye would have to be deliberate considering the amount of takes & the make-up, hair, & other stylists you even see featured at some point in the video. Notice how in the frame after the two sisters sitting on the couch, it cuts to a shot of the curtains. Curtains, yeah, so what right? Wrong! Why are they open, falling in what happens to be a pyramid or triangle shape? Some might call it coincidence, but once again, I know, in Hollywood nothing is coincidental. The models are also walking on what looks to be piano keys, the black/white is used to represent duality, also similar to the Freemason's black/white checkered floor used in all lodges/temples around the country which we also know to be a reoccurring theme in artists' videos nowadays. The next frame features "Mary Mary" in black/white on a stage completely blacked out with only a dim circular light behind them. Almost looks like the pupil of an eye to me. They are also seen in all black with pops of white as opposed to the scene on the stage where Erica is wearing all black & Tina is wearing black/white. If you're familiar with Mary Mary and when they first came out, you can vouch that they were always wearing bright festive colors with very colorful videos like "In the Morning' off  their sophomore album, "Incredible" for example. Remember that they are signed to Columbia which is considered to be a "secular" label. The curtain then remains open throughout the remainder of the fashion show. The lyrics then say, "You think I'm so fresh, you think I'm so clean you think I'm so sweet". Why would we think these things, unless there was a reason otherwise to think differently. Still not sure why Kanye West and his girlfriend at the time (Amber Rose) are in the video. Last I checked, Kanye West wasn't representative of Christ and isn't trying to be associated with Christ or Mary Mary. Fonzworth Bentley (Diddy's former assistant) is also seen on the runway--not someone who professed to be a Christian that I can recall either. Not to say that even if he professed that would make him one. To be a Christian you are to be a follower of Christ, meaning you follow his commandments. It's not a confession that changes your character to change or become like Christ, but a relationship with him and allowing the Holyspirit to come inside you to free/change you. The video ends with them back-to-back, the lights dimming to their right/left, & the middle fading last. It is now "a sound" that they're producing as opposed to music that SHOULD  be inspired by God.

Before getting to their most recent album "Something Big", let's take a look back at their 2005 self-titled release, "Mary Mary". Now usually self-titles generally come first, I however find it hard to believe that they chose to name their third studio album after themselves. Maybe this is why ... Take a look at the album cover.

Both of the "A's" on the cover appear with no line through them. Almost as if pyramids? Keep in mind, they have never had "A's" with no lines on their album covers before. Now I know some of you might say, that's ridiculous, who really reads that deep into things, but it's obviously something they tried to see if anyone noticed, & obviously not many did and If they did, they did nothing about it and continued buying/listening to their music.

Now, we take a look at their newest album entitled, "Something Big".

Notice how the emphasis is now placed on their eyes. But wait!

This cover was released for a track on the album called "Something Bigger". This is the second song after the title track, first single and first track on the album, "Something Big". It (Something Bigger) was not a single and this cover wasn't released to the general public. Why? Because that would've been too obvious of course. Makes you think, what's the something bigger they're referring to. As you can see, again one eye is exposed or covered which as I talk about in earlier posts is a sign of homage to Horus, an ancient Egyptian god. 

Walking, the most popular and first released single on the album feature lyrics that particularly disturbed me. Let's see why. 

The last bridge reads:

What does my life say about me
Can anyone see
Does it show I rock with the greatest
I can't get back the time I spent
Use the rest of it
To show all the world how I made it

What I interpreted them saying is that they can't get back the time they've spent as Christians, but they're going to use the rest of their time (as sinners essentially) showing the rest of the world how "they made it". What they've made it into, I don't know, but it was obviously "Something Bigger". Now, earlier I said I would address the correlation between the last album & this one. On their album entitled, "The Sound", there's a track named "I'm Running". This track/single is obviously entitled, "Walking". In the second verse, sister Tina sings, "You won't get very far, running all the time". Would this then suggest that they're no longer running and now walking? Running is obviously associated with living fully/completely for God as Paul speaks of wanting to run a good race and fight a good fight and hearing job well done when he makes it to heaven to be judged by God. Walking is obviously considered to be slower an in saying, you won't get very far running all the time, that means their speed has been reduced and it's almost as if they feel there is no need to run anymore 'cause they feel they've made it.

John 15:19 says, "If ye were of the world, the world would love his own; but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you". 

As a Christian, we are to live in the world, but not be/or become like or of it. For what shall it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his own soul?

This brings me to somewhat recent news that I happened to stumble across on facebook the other day. Click the link below for details.

.Beyoncé Continues "4 Intimate Nights With Beyoncé" Residency At Roseland Ballroom

The link basically displays information about a 4 night intimate concert Beyoncé held at Roseland Ballroom. Erica Campbell (group member of Mary Mary) as it reads in the article, was seen as one of the attendees. There was no mention of any Christian artists in attendance yet there was, however mention of Diddy, The Dream, Jay-Z, Russell Simmons, Adrienne Bailon and Ne-Yo. None of which are Christian or "Gospel" artists. This was Mary Mary's response via twitter to one of their not so thrilled fans. 

One might say, the world needs singing/ministering to as well, but what did God say? What fellowship does light have with darkness or righteousness with unrighteousness. What reason does a Christian/Gospel artist have to attend a secular concert? Does Beyoncé attend Mary Mary concerts? Didn't think so. Well possibly now! Inspiration should only be taken from the Holy Spirit, if/when singing about him. Beyoncé knows who she is and what she stands for. She wants nothing Christianity has to offer, unless of course it's fans, or maybe a role in a film "playing" a Christian. I will also address her in a later blog, but for now, back to Mary Mary. 

The newest single released from the album "Something Big" is entitled, "Survive". They too, have a video for this song which I found as a strange choice for their second single considering all the positive feedback from the tracks, "Something Big" and "Something Bigger".  For me, the blatant, noticeable identifiable symbolism was at an all time high. Watch and see for yourself. Also, this is the only video featured on their official site at the moment.

Mary Mary - Survive (video)

This video begins in an almost completely blacked-out frame, with the exception of the circular beam of light I thought to very closely resemble a pupil or the shape of en eye. Erica is shown first, dressed in all white. She is perceived (or intended to be anyway) as innocent, pure and childlike. Tina is then shown in what seems to be a cheerful, happy light, looking up towards the sky. They are both then dressed in all white, one sitting (in front of what looks to be a circular piece of furniture, once again that very closely resembles the pupil of en eye), and one standing. Once the verse begins, Tina is now shown in ALL BLACK with Erica in the background as a distant shadow. Remember, black/white represent the duality of good vs. evil. This dates all the way back to the practice of the first Freemasons (George Washington being the first). Keep in mind, this whole video was done in black/white. Why? Keep watching. Later, a picture of what looks to be a victim/Red Cross Disaster Relief aid is shown with the first display of two withered, black, almost completely dead looking trees opposite each other. You may ask why these are incorporated into the frame and why I chose to point them out. Well, let's keep watching. The sisters are still shown in front of what looks to be the pupil of an eye with a very dimly lit light shining behind them. Tina is then shown with her head down, then in all black with one eye now covered. The next frame features both sisters in the picture frame, completely blacked out with these creepy trees once again starring opposite each other. I'd say they (the trees) almost resemble antlers or horns of some sort. Maybe even the horns of Baphomet? For those of you who aren't familiar with Baphomet, he is considered to be a 19th century, pagan deity used to represent Satanism/occultism. Many secular artists have been seeing displaying this symbolism in their videos, from Lady GaGa to Jay-Z, they usually incorporate animal horns to pay homage to this satanic figure. 

Here are the horns featured in Jay-Z's "On to the Next One" video. 

Here, GaGa is featured with animal horns on either side of her. These are representative of the figure shown below.

Baphomet

Now, back to the video. When Erica sings, "Now hurt and pain were sometimes my company", if you watch her left hand, she makes a point to form a circle with her thumb and index finger, while the other three straight. As we see "Gospel" artist Kim Burrell doing in the picture below. This is representative of the numbers 666 (the mark of the beast or the "devil's code") as well as the eye of Horus (all-seeing eye). One might say, well they could've just been doing the familiar A-ok hand-gesture. My question to you would then be, why would she A. Choose to be photographed like this, and B. Ensure that it is HER left hand being photographed. Not a coincidence.

Notice how Tina is now facing Erica as she faces us (with again, only one eye exposed). The tress continue to be shown distinctly placed on either side of the sisters. Tina's hair is now blatantly placed in front of her RIGHT eye, exposing her left which is the proper way to pay homage (some artist are too dumb to get it correct) smh! Now I know you've seen Mary Mary's other videos and never have they had issues with their hair covering an eye for even a moment and definitely not an entire video. To the best of my recollection I also don't ever recall them having a completely black/white video before "The Sound". This brings me to the question of what exactly they were asked or forced to survive. Was it the initiation into "Something Bigger" maybe? The lyrics say at one point, Along the way, on a road "somewhere" they got stopped by the wind/rain and to their surprise it shook their heart and blew their mind. Didn't hear them mention Jesus so who or what exactly blew your mind? They then go on to say, "Truth be told, it almost broke me". What is "it" they're referring to? It would have to be directly related to one thing they are talking about. Then, they say, "Oh, "it" (again) shook my heart", well if they were talking about hurt/pain (two things) you wouldn't refer to both things as it, so obviously they're talking about one thing in particular. What really took the cake for me and let me know I for sure wasn't imagining things was the frame with connected triangles meant to resemble (what I know some of you will deny) pyramids. If they were meant to resemble stained church glass windows which is the only other possible explanation you can come up with, why would it be non-colored (black) triangles that look nothing like glass. Pyramids, as well all the all-seeing eye are signs used by the Illuminati taken from the dollar bill to channel/pay homage to Horus - an Egyptian deity or god.

The triangles or pyramids rather, are only flashed very briefly and then are gone within seconds. I'd say that the trees/the pyramids are two things that are shown consistently throughout the duration of the video. Why would they choose to keep those two symbols in their video? What significance does tress that look like they weren't torched in this video? They couldn't have survived much 'cause they look dead to me! Do you not think the question was asked by the director or maybe even the producer, what is the significance of these things and why do they have to be shot in every frame. When Erica sings, "Heeeey!", her hand once again looks to deceivingly try to hide flashing of the all-seeing eye or 6 (which you'll learn later). The brief shots of natural disasters and displaced victims generally serve no purpose to the overall plot of the video. Other than the fact that they represent "survivors", they serve no importance, or nor importance is placed on them. Most of them don't look to have survived anything, but rather people walking around... Erica (to my left in the photo below) is seen is some frames with her hair completely brushed out of her face, so this lets me know that the scenes with the hair completely covering one eye are intentional. The first of the last five frames show Tina once again with her right eye covered (exposing the left). The very last frame is of the triangles or pyramids and then the shot closes with a close-up (emphasis) on the pyramid.

This photo, one of only four featured on their blog site shows them dressed in black with what's that? Can you guess it? Pyramid or triangle shaped earrings; Tina (to the right) of sister Erica is wearing them and looks away as to be recognizing someone else and deceiving viewers. No eye contact is a sign of disrespect or deception. Why do you think people look away or can't look you in the eyes when they lie. The eyes act as the windows to the soul.

If you visit their blogging site, ilovemarymary.com

They are again featured in black/white photos, one eye exposed in profile shots. The photos are so faint, you don't even notice them on the sides of the computer screen. This is no coincidence. Christianity is supposed to be a lifestyle or life lived before God that is pleasing to him and him only. Not the world. Even the world recognizes that their music has changed. If you refer to the reception of their "Something Big" album (using wikipedia.org), critics used things to describe their music like, "exciting march-like drum beat and hoo'ky Timbaland-esque male vocal"; the critic went on to say, "it hints at an audacity that its lyrics and music never quite deliver. One critic even said, the albums second half was less positively than the first, and that "relatively dry songs lack the edge of the album’s first half". They are now being compared to secular artists, I wonder why--because that's who they want to be!

In this clip below, sisters, Mary Mary are shown performing at the Wendy Williams Show. At the end of the performance, she asks them what artists' they want to collaborate with, how do they respond? Watch to find out.  

Wendy Williams Performance

They mentioned everyone from Al Green, Beyoncé, Celine Dion, James Taylor, and Rascal Flatts? None of which are Gospel artists!

The last two videos I will be analyzing are also performances; one with LL Cool J performing with none other than Mary Mary (which pretty much speaks for itself), and the other with noticeable symbolism I will isolate for you.

Watch Part 1/2 to understand what took place during the performance:

Part 1

Part 2

To sum it up, LL Cool J pronounces a curse over the entire audience with Mary Mary present, then they go & utilize his techniques in their performance "Optimistic" that you will see the link for below. 

Amos 3:3 asks, Can two walk together, except they be agreed? The answer is no. I'm sure you've heard the popular saying "birds of a feather flock together". This basically means has the same concept. You are who you hand around (another well-known quote). So once again, why would you as followers of Christ want to be associated with someone so blatantly ungodly.

If you have time, you can also click this link to watch a video about Mary Mary.

After seeing that you would think it can't get any worse, but now, similar to Jay-Z/Beyonce, after being initiated so to speak, Mary Mary is now doing the deceiving (as Beyonce now does) after being deceived/initiated by Jay-Z.

Mary Mary - Optimistic performance

 

Wow! While watching this performance the symbolism was literally jumping right out at me. This video is only featured on their blog site (ilovemarymarry.com) but on their official site. I find that ironic when the official site is supposed to be the one most view; which would explain exactly why they chose not to post it there smh.The stage opens to a choir (their church affiliation remains unknown) on either side of what's supposed to be a star, but coincidentally happens to display only the top of the star which makes a perfect visible triangle or better served as a pyramid. As if the pyramid wasn't blatant enough, the stage also has three circular (what look to be eyes) two opposite of the screen which features a background of the sky. The third, shot to be viewed as if it were two eyes and one being covered (also exposing the left "eye" or eye to the left) is shown to pay homage to the all-seeing eye or eye of Horus. The choir then begins to sing the words, "Keep your head to the sky". A song entitled "Optimistic", originally sang by popular group, Sounds of Blackness (a R&B, soul, and jazz group that also "crossed over to do gospel). This video ironically, however is only featured on their blogging site and not on the official Mary Mary website. Hmm! Seems strategic, If you ask me. Let's keep watching. The duo then makes their way down the aisle and up onto the stage. Pay close attention to hand of the older sister (Erica) to the right in all black. When she's saying or singing the words, "If you learn to never say never", she flashes the all-seeing eye, but very discreetly. Below is a still frame of Erica flashing the all-seeing eye as well as raising "devil horns".

 This is used to channel the spirit of Horus in combination with paying homage & controlling the viewer. I find it interesting that it's done (one of many times during the performance) at this part of the song; reminds me of another artist who uses the phrase/has a song titled "Never Say Never"... Refer to my last blog for clarity. Now, back to the Mary's... If you notice, Erica's belt looks to be a huge Baphomet head (figure of occultism and Satanism). See above. Looks almost identical to the Baphomet head Beyonce wore on her belt in her video "Ring the Alarm" (except Erica's is much bigger). Of course I can no longer find a picture of the belt, but you can watch the video for yourself and see that she's wearing it accompanied with an all white skirt and top (the belt displays a gold Baphomet head). Tina's fur jacket or whatever you would call (not sure of the fashionable term) very closesly resembles the one Beyonce wore in the video "Run The World (Girls). It is worn once the dancing begins. For a second time, she flashes the 6 or all-seeing eye when saying, "When things around you crumble"... She then right after flashes the 'Horned Hand", devil horns or what people think today is the "rock-on hand gesture" (which is a lie!). If you clicked on the LL Cool J/Mary Mary Part 2 link above, you saw that the 'Horned Hand' was a Satanic hand gesture used by witches when carrying out Satanic rituals. In the Part 2 video, it also references the pentargram/star, & Baphomet which we saw both present on stage in the "Optimistic" performance. The stars, both on the stage and behind the artists, and the actual Baphomet head worn on the of group member Erica. She then flashes it again while singing, "Keep pushing on and don't you look back" becoming emotional almost as if to say she will never look back (which usually indicates you've moved passed something, you're entering a new a chapter or something else or even that you're trying to forget something in some cases). She continues to flash it even while singing, "Storms and strides"... The video ends with them exiting the stage and introducing Pastor Shirley Caesar. What's your take on this Black Girls Rock performance? 


Most recently, Mary Mary released a single called "Go Get It". You can listen here >>> Mary Mary - Go Get It.

The song talks about, well in their words, "You're not the person they see" (obviously I interpreted it as they're deceiving us and showing us a fake person that isn't really them) but I'll leave that up to your discretion. The overall message or so they want you to think, is to "Go Get It". What "It" is they're referring to I don't know, but I do know when you're led by God his word said, But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you - Matthew 6:33. So If you truly follow Christ and walk not after the flesh it should never be a case where you have to "grind" or hustle as some would say; In other words, when you have to do seek something out, it's usually because it's something your desires and not something you need or God wants for you. She goes on to say, "They built your muscle", almost to signify that the public is to blame for the ego that she's now "built". Or allowed the enemy to build rather. She then says, "You got yo God" meaning, she doesn't believe there's one true and living God, but rather there are multiple god's and whoever you believe in will take you there."If you want to get somethin' you've never got, you gotta do somethin' you've never done" is what she says sometime after that. Well, this is a saying I hear often and it can be both negative and positive. If that thing you've never done is within sticking with what you believe, that makes sense, but if doing something you've never done means defouling God and comprising your beliefs, I'd say no. A blessing is something not to be confused with something you go out and make happen in your own will without ever consulting God. That is simply a decision. Similar to benefits on a job, they are only entitled to employees who meet specific qualifications or standards. God's blessings are the same, they are entitled to his children (those who obey him). He said, If you love me, you'll keep my commandments. In Psalm 84:11 it says, no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. So, blessings come to those who keep God's commandments, not just anyone who has a desire to "Go Get It", chase a dream, ambition or any other earthly or fleshy desire of ours. 

Reality Series Sneak Peek

Here's a sneak peek of heir latest venture, an upcoming reality series set to air on WE tv starting April 5th.  Take a look. They mentioned nothing about being a Christian or serving God, the cloest they came was that they're "Gosepl Artists"; they did however remember to mention all their awards and that they need another "hit". Sad. Mentioned nothing about winning souls or even a church they attend. This my friends, is sadly what our music industry (Gospel included) has come to. Be Blessed, until next time (: