Tommy Ford

I remember there was a time very few folks in Hollywood would publicly talk about God or Christ or singing in church. But now it’s not so unusual anymore. There are many celebrities boldly standing up and not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Winans began that crossover generation where gospel music was not only heard on gospel stations; now it is possible to listen to Yolanda Adams, Fred Hammond, Kirk Franklin on secular stations. I remember that there were also the Clark Sisters, even before Kirk Franklin who has become so popular and done a dynamic job.

CHRISTOPHER: Everyone knows you for your engaging laugh, familiar grin and your quick wit, but they don’t know much about what an enterprising businessman you are. What are some of the projects you are doing behind the scenes - both in the gospel and secular worlds?

TOMMY: I’m an enterprising businessman.

CHRISTOPHER: Well, tell me about it.

TOMMY: Tell you about it. You're nosy that’s your problem? (laughs) They nosy in Montreal and they want to get up in my business. (laughs)

CHRISTOPHER: So is that the way we’re leaving it?

TOMMY: Y’all don’t have a sense of humor in Montreal?

CHRISTOPHER: I’m just a journalist.

TOMMY: I have a couple of companies - one is called Model T. Ford Entertainment. I produced Brodrick E. Rice's first album and he’s getting ready to do another one. I just joined forces with a production company here in Miami (I live in Miami and L.A.) where we have a deal with NBC producing and developing an animated children’s show. I also write children’s books; I have about six books coming out this year - two of them have won some awards. I have a telecommunications company and we have calling cards, all kinds of exciting things. There are a whole lot of wonderful things going on right now and I’m really excited about them.

CHRISTOPHER: Well no doubt, for every enterprising brother like a Model T. Ford there is usually a very, very fine woman in the background, watching your back. Is your wife as funny or is she the straight man, watching your business?