By Sarah Hearn
Examiner.com
September 17, 2012
Gospel Music Heritage Month had a grand celebration in the nation’s capital, Sunday, September 16. The “Evolution of Gospel” concert was held at the Warner Theater in Washington, D.C. The line formed early to get into the concert that celebrated the rich legacy of gospel music through song and narration.
The concert was emceed by ABC 7 news anchor Cynee' Simpson and WYCB's Winston Chaney. The star-studded musical roster included Yolanda Adams, Maurette Brown Clark, Damita Haddon, Lil' Mo and Phillip Bryant, Crystal Akins, The 7 Sons of Soul, and the Washington Performing Arts Society Men and Women of the Gospel Choir (WPAS).
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee has successfully led efforts since 2008 to ensure the contributions, history, and sound of Gospel music are recognized and honored throughout the nation by passing resolutions that designate September as Gospel Music Heritage Month. Gospel Heritage Foundation Chair Carl Davis called Congresswoman Lee a “lady of valor.” Congresswoman Lee, Davis and Verity Gospel Music Group Executive Vice President/General Manager James “Jazzy” Jordan presented each honoree with their award.
Musical performances included Yolanda Adams singing “Never Give Up,” Maurette Brown Clark, “It Aint Over” and 7 Sons of Soul, “Be Encouraged.” WPAS directed by Stanley Thurston performed rousing renditions of traditional gospel songs, including “Down By the Riverside.” The concert concluded with participants taking to the stage singing “Souled Out.”
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