Celebrating Gospel Music-Kim’s Kronicles

Cover photo- Kelly Price does an impromptu performance. Inside Photo-Lou Gossett Jr. accepts The Living Legend Award. Both photos by Kim Webster.

By Kim Webster

Songwriter, pianist, composer, arranger Thomas A. Dorsey, known as “the father of  black gospel music,” composed over 3,000 songs.  He wrote “Precious Lord, Take My Hand” which is known worldwide and has been translated into over 50 languages.   The “Dorsey” style of combining jazz and blues rhythms with lyrical praise is the foundation of gospel music today.   An annual event celebrating the culture of gospel music is Gospel Goes To Hollywood”  presented by Executive Producer Tomeka B Holyfield.

Hosted by Pastor Donnie McClurkin and featuring performing artists Jessica Reedy, Tamela Mann, Stephen B. Steward, and The Showers.  Gospel music filled the air as the audience stood in spiritual praise.  Guest speaker Pastor Toure Roberts spoke about the importance of discovering your purpose in life, maintaining positive values, and keeping faith in God.

Oscar winner, humanitarian, social advocate Lou Gossett Jr. was honored with the Living Legend Award.  He credits his grandmother for her spiritual guidance and wisdom in his development as a man.  Equally Yoked Award honorees David and Tamela Mann, both are the example of a supportive couple.   Both are outstanding actors with David receiving the 2011 NAACP Award for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series and Tamela receiving the  Dove Award and 2014 BET Best Gospel Artist Award.

Tamela & David Mann receive The Equally Yoked Award. Photo by Kim Webster.

Creator, writer, and executive producer Bentley Kyle Evans was honored with the Behind the Scene Trailblazer Award.  Among his works are “Martin,” “The Jamie Foxx Show,” “A Thin Line Between Love & Hate,” and the new TV-1 hit “Love That Girl.”  Actor, film and TV military, technical & tactical advisor Matt Sigloch was honored with the Faith & Endurance Award.   His “spotlight story” testimonial was thought provoking.  He’s performed stunt work on many films and was Military Technical Advisor on the “JAG” series, “Batman Forever,” and numerous others.   You can see his technical work on the CBS television series EXTANT starring Halle Berry.