Mention the name MSI around certain people in Birmingham, and they’ll take you on a trip down memory lane. For those who don’t know, MSI were one of the pioneering Hip Hop groups to come out of this city and 31 year old Herman Stewart... AKA HMD, then known as H, was one of the groups’ hottest lyricists. He shared a stage with US artists such as Busta Rhymes, Redman and Wu-Tang, to name a few, and had regular spots on Radio One DJ, Tim Westwood’s show. The last time I saw HMD performing with MSI, was back around the mid 90’s at the Keith Murray concert in Digbeth. There was no doubt he had skills and passion for his craft, but in 1998 he disappeared off the scene and the group eventually disbanded.
The JourneyHMD feels that decision to walk away from his music career at such a crucial point was essential. He remembers feeling ‘stagnant’ at the time, and wasn’t getting what he needed from his work. He says: “I look back recognising where I was concerning my personal development. I was not as defined as I am now, I was still searching, and in some aspects I was lost”.  | | Fruits Album - First Fruits |
Now he returns ready to utilise his musical talents after becoming a Christian and getting married. “It’s like a new relationship you strive to focus on it.”
FruitsIn 2004 HMD got together with music producer and fellow believer Antony Brown AKA Frikshun, to form FRUITS, a Hip Hop gospel group like you’ve never seen before. He describes the meaning behind the name: “You’ve got all these different fruits which are different flavours. We believe our music is a kaleidoscope of different flavours and forms. We strive not to be dictated to by any genre. “Fruits also means - For Real Unity It Takes Sacrifice”. In December Fruits released its first album ‘First Fruits’, a dynamic and explosive offering, which shows HMD’s lyrical delivery is stronger than ever, under the complimentary production of Frikshun. Fruits ProductionsFruits are not just a group, but a production company that do music and theatre performances as well as running a motivational service. “We didn’t want to pigeonhole ourselves, or limit ourselves by just being a record label, because we knew we wanted to make more than music” Part of Fruits Productions' ethos is to challenge the negative stereotypes within the popular urban culture of today’s society. As well as releasing their first album, Fruits Productions have also released a DVD of their provocative stage play, which tells the story of how HMD discovered his new found faith: “It’s more than a play, more than a musical. This is life changing.” Fruit Of Our LipsFruits Productions has organised an evening of worship through spoken word, poetry, rap and song called ‘Fruits Of Our Lips’. But don’t expect to hear any instruments, backing tracks, or any other distraction, HMD explains why: “I believe there are times when the music can drown what the person's trying to articulate, I think it’s good when you can have an event where its just about the word.
“The event's name is taken from a scripture in Hebrews. It talks about giving praise to the Lord with the fruits of our lips. The fruits of our lips could be singing, poetry, giving personal testimonies etc.” Much of Birmingham’s local talent will be performing at this event, including Fruits, so I think it’s definitely worthwhile attending. FutureAs for the future, Fruits Productions plan to expand their list of artists, possibly venture into films, and continue to spread their unique style of ministry aimed at young people.
“We started and set the pace by the grace of God, and built a foundation, but we believe that platform also needs to be used by others that have gifts and talents as well” EVENT NOT TO BE MISSEDFruits of the Lips - Saturday 8th July
Birmingham Library Theatre, Paradise Place, Birmingham B3 3HQ (near the Central Library)
Doors Open @ 7pm
For further Information call 07716 194 824
Or go to:
info@fruitsproductions.com or www.fruitsproductions.com
While you’re there check out: www.myspace.com/fruitsproduction LINK UP MANDISA-LINK UP MANDISA-LINK UP MANDISADO YOU HAVE A STORY?I was born and raised in Birmingham, and take a personal interest in the everyday lives of local people. I want to hear your stories.
If you would like me to highlight your concerns, events, whatever...
Just give me a call or an email.
Contact DetailsEmail: Mandisa.gordon@bbc.co.ukMobile: 07866 684 506Post: BBC WM, The Mailbox, Birmingham B1 1RF | 
