Legendary producer, songwriter, musician, arranger, and singer. Percy’s debut solo project, “The Percy Bady Experience” was released on GospoCentric Records in July 2003. The multiple Stellar and Dove Award winning Bady’s, credits include the “Ali” movie soundtrack, “Donnie McClurkin Again.” Percy’s renown keyboard skills keep him in great demand in the gospel music industry. He has also worked with such gospel greats as Yolanda Adams, BeBe & CeCe Winans, Marvin Sapp, and Ray Bady. In 1996 Bady was nominated for a Grammy Award for choir director in the “Gospel Album by a Choir or Chorus” category, for “Shout.” Percy Bady wrote BMI’s Most Performed Gospel Song of 2007, “Um Good.”

Sought-after drummer, singer, songwriter, and producer. Ray’s debut solo project, “Mission K.O.B. (Keep On Believin’!)” was released on GospoCentric Records in May 2002, and was co-produced by brother, Percy Bady. Ray’s reknown drumming skills keep him in great demand in the gospel music industry. Throughout his career he has worked with some of gospel’s greatest including Kirk Franklin, BeBe Winans, Yolanda Adams, and Marvin Sapp.

One of 15 children, this Journey Music Group recording artist, songwriter, singer, instrumentalist, arranger and producer was born and raised in Chicago. Darius’ mother, the late, Ethel Armstrong, was an accomplished pianist, and regularly accompanied legendary gospel artists of her time, including Mahalia Jackson, Albertina Walker, and Inez Andrews. Ms. Armstrong is credited with introducing Darius to Rev. Milton Brunson, and the rest is, as they say, gospel music legend. For 15 years, Darius played a key role as producer, musical director, songwriter and arranger for the late Rev. Milton Brunson’s world renowned Thompson Community Singers. Songs like “Safe In His Arms” and “My Minds Made Up,” garnered Brooks seven Grammy nominations, three Grammy Awards, and numerous Stellar and Dove Awards. In 2000, Brooks went solo and formed the independent label, Journey Music Group (JMG). He also established the Simply Darius Music Foundation, an organization devoted to discovering and mentoring young talent. After releasing 3 projects on JMG, Brooks signed with EMI Gospel in early 2004, and released “Your Will.” In 2006, Darius Brooks was back on JMG with "My Soul."

Formed in 1948, at Chicago’s McKinley High School, The Thompson Community Choir has gone on to be one of the most celebrated gospel choirs of all time, and the oldest existing community choir in the nation. Led by the legendary Rev. Milton Brunson until his passing in 1997, “The Tommies” (as the choir is affectionately known), have released 10 gospel chart-topping albums and won a Grammy award in 1995, for “Best Gospel Album by a Choir or Chorus” for “Through God’s Eyes.” In 1997, Mrs. Joe Ann Brunson, established the Milton Brunson Foundation in Rev. Brunson’s honor. The Foundation has a division to present scholarships to graduating high school seniors. The "Tommies" have been honored with eight Stellar Awards and been inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. In 1998, "50 Blessed Years" was released on Sony Records.

This Chicago native released her debut project in June of 2004 entitled “Been Good.”

Chicago-native, Albertina Walker, and other former members of the Robert Anderson Singers formed The Caravans, in October of 1952. During their reign, some of gospels most legendary artists sang with the group including Shirley Caesar, Dorothy Norwood, Inez Andrews, Bessie Griffin, James Cleveland, James Herndon, Deloris Washington, Casietta George and Josephine Howard. Until 1956, The Caravans recorded for the States label. In 1958, The Caravans switched to the Gospel label of Savoy Records. In 1966, Shirley Caesar left The Caravans to pursue evangelism and a solo recording career. After the loss of their main soloist, all the other members of The Caravans left the group within a matter of months. Caravan classics such as “Sweeping Through the City,” “Mary, Don’t You Weep,” “The Solid Rock,” and “Hallelujah Tis Done,” have been covered by many. In August 2005, the Caravans held a reunion concert, spearheaded by Dorothy Norwood, at Chicago’s West Point Baptist Church. The live CD entitled Paved The Way was released in 2006. In January of 2006, the 14th Annual American Gospel Quartet Convention (AGQC) inducted the legendary Caravans into the organization’s Hall of Fame. Celebrating the release of their 2010 album, The Caravans return moving full speed ahead with their new single entitled “My Soul Says Yes,” along with 10 soul-stirring selections to solidify their position as undisputable pioneers of gospel music.  

Founded in 1988, by James C. Chambers, who earlier organized the famed Ecclesiastes Community Choir (ECC), the Chicago Mass Choir, continues in a spirit of excellence under the current leadership of Dr. Feranda Williamson, According to their website, “Their style has been one of straight-ahead, gimmick-free Gospel singing capturing the true spirit of worship and a strong sense of community.”

Born in Chicago, December 5, 1932, this singer, pianist, arranger, choir director, and composer went on to become “The King of Gospel.” Cleveland later moved to Detroit where the Rev. C. L. Franklin hired him as choir director at new Bethel Baptist Church. It was there that he taught Rev. Franklin’s daughter, Aretha, to sing. He later produced her Grammy-winning LP, “Amazing Grace.” Rev. Cleveland is credited with writing over 400 gospel songs and has a star on the Hollywood walk of Fame. In 1967, Rev. Cleveland founded the Gospel Music workshop of America (GMWA). Rev. Cleveland passed away on February 9, 1991, on Feb. 20, 1991 he was posthumously awarded his final Grammy Award for “Best Gospel Album by a Choir or Chorus” as choir director for “Having Church” performed by the Southern California Community Choir.

At the age of 10, Max Deizal (born Brian Keith Ewing II) began rapping, but like most inner city adolescents, he was enticed by the streets. At age 13 Brian joined the notorious street gang the Gangster Disciples. In high school Brian, then known as R.O.T The Reign Of Terror, befriended a fellow rapper named Isaiah Zeke Russell and the two formed the group, The Platoon. In 1999, Brian was asked by his aunt to make up a gospel rap for a program at church. As Brian wrote the song, he began to feel convicted and realized that it was time for a serious change. After performing that song, God revealed to the duo what their purpose was and they changed the name of their group to, The Truth. In 2001, The Truth were asked to sign with the Catalyst Music label, but declined. They accepted another offer, however, from Grapetree Records. When Grapetree Records folded, The Truth had to change their name to Max and Zeke. When Max and Zeke separated, the self proclaimed “Last Dragon,” refocused his mission and began working on his solo debut, “Against The Grain.”

Light Records recording artist, Ricky Dillard, began his career with the Thomson Community Singers, and formed the New Generation Chorale in 1988. Their 1998 debut album, “The Promise” earned the choir a Grammy nomination for “Best Gospel Album by a Choir or Chorus,” and Ricky Dillard a role in the Paramount film, “Leap of Faith.” Ricky Dillard & New Generation Chorale have received several Grammy and Stellar Award nominations. Dillard’s last effort with the New Generation Chorale, The 7th Episode: Live In Toronto was released in 2007, and generated multiple radio hits including “The Light,” “Our Father,” “You Are Holy” and a cover of Bishop Eric McDaniel’s “One More Chance.”  The CD peaked at number 7 on the Billboard Gospel Chart.

Dana Divine is an urban psalmist. Born into a musical and talented family Dana says she knew early on that her destiny was as a songwriter. Dana’s current release titled, “A Nu Language” is executive produced and independently released by Dana Divine.” Dana explains her love of contemporary music in the following way: “God continues to speak to all people today. He is speaking to them in contemporary terms. The methods that He uses may be Holy hip-hop, spoken word, miming, interpreted dance, Gospel- house music, etc. These are His “Nu Language(s)”. The message is the same, but the language is different. Through the calling of the Holy Spirit, He will continue to draw men and women unto Him, no matter what style of music is used.”

In 1999, Travis A. Douglas had a vision to start his own choir. “The “Travis Douglas & Determined” organization is a Chicago-based performing choir and ensemble that is available for performances, concerts and backup for “live” or studio recordings. They have performed in churches, auditoriums, theaters, stadiums, at festivals and other professional venues all over the Southern and Midwestern United States. Their newest project, “God’s Will” was released in 2010.

One of the true fathers of Chicago gospel music. The Reverend Clay Evans was born June 23, 1925 in Brownsville, TN.  Ordained as a Baptist Minister in 1950, this Illustrious Founder and Pastor of the Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church of Chicago.  He has and is a leader in the Civil Rights Movement since 1965. He is the Founding National Board Chairman of Operation, (PUSH) and he held this position for five years. Reverend Evans has been a featured soloist on albums with the Voice Choir of the Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church and with the Voice Choir of the African American Religious Connection (AARC).  Reverend Clay Evans won the 1996 Stellar Award for Best Gospel Album of the Year, which included the song "I’ve Got a Testimony". Some of the great albums in his discography include “I’ve Got A Testimony,” “The Collection,” “Just What I Need,” “Constantly,” “I’m Going Through,” “Reach Beyond the Break,” “Coming Home,” “It’s Me Again,” “He’s a Battle Axe,” “Room At The Cross,” and “Still In The Mix.” In 2010, Dr. Evans celebrated his 85th birthday at Chicago’s Christ Universal Temple with a salute to Rev. Evans and his sister, Dr. Lou Della Evans Reid.

As young as 4 years old, Sylvia recalls memories of innocently singing her nursery rhymes as her father stood by, recording every last note. A singer himself, Larry Fedrick contributed his beautiful voice to a quartet as a child and, later, the church choir. He never actively pursued a career in gospel music, but would go on to influence that of his musically inclined family, especially his young daughter, Sylvia. Often singing to her as a child, the influences of Sylvia’s father would serve as a foundation upon which Sylvia would grow as an artist. Sylvia’s involvement in school and community organizations on Chicago’s South Side led to her membership in the Walter H. Dyett elementary school choir. This sparked Sylvia’s interest and initiated formal vocal training under the instruction of Naomi Petty. She bettered her vocal range and maintained her involvement at Lindblom Technical High School where she graduated with the honor of "most talented."

Fortitude’s four young men, Jamie Simond, Cinque Cullar, Leon "Rock" Guyton and Teddy Jackson, initially came together to sing as a group for a special event at a small church on Chicago’s Southside. In 1998, they came together again to record an independent project under the group name of "NuWave." Their freshman release, "So Grateful To You" (Imani Faith) garnered a 1999 Stellar Award nomination for Best New Artist. Recording for Word Records since 2003, under the name of "Fortitude," their self-titled 2004 release offered traditional and contemporary gospel music infused with a pop, R&B and funk flavor.

This Chicago-based contemporary gospel artist released "So Fresh." in 2007

Maurice Griffin is a young rising star now residing in Chicago, IL, and is the Minister of Music at Truth and Deliverance International Ministries. Griffin’s goal is to serve and empower other worship leaders to their maximum potential. His solo CD I Am Somebody: I Peter 2:9 was produced through his own Chicago-based Maurice Griffin Ministries organization. Griffin wrote and produced all eleven of the songs on this heart-felt praise and worship project.

Acclaimed by Billboard as “one of the great entertainers of the day,” Tony award winner and multiple Grammy nominee Heather Headley makes her triumphant debut on the EMI Gospel label with the most personal album of her multi-faceted career,  AUDIENCE OF ONE, recorded with Grammy award winning producer Keith Thomas. Following critically acclaimed performances on her certified gold debut CD This Is Who I Am (2002) and her second album In My Mind (2006), Headley now returns to the gospel roots that became the foundation of her career singing as a child in her father’s church in Barataria, Trinidad. Heather currently attends Harvard Bible Chapel in Chicago.

Chicago-based Mark S. Hubbard and The United Voices of Christ took home their first Stellar Award in 2006 for "Traditional Choir of The Year" for their most recent release, "Blessin’ Waitin’ On Me." Mark’s brother, Reginald Staggers penned the title cut. The group records on the Utopia Music Group record label founded by Bishop Larry Trotter. Bishop Trotter is also Mark’s pastor.

Lonnie Hunter is an accomplished vocalist, organist, director, actor, and entrepreneur, and has been the Minister of Music at St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church Cathedral in Harvey, IL, since 1983. Lonnie Hunter and The Voices of St. Mark’s most recent project, “Next Level,” featuring the toe-tapping, “Let’s Dance,” was recorded live at the choir’s home church, and received a 2004 Stellar Award nomination for “Contemporary Choir Of The Year.” A successful entrepreneur, Lonnie is president and CEO of Hunter Communications Group, a public relations firm. Adding to his impressive list of accomplishments, Minister Hunter has taken on the position of Pastor of Worship for the Bethany Baptist Church of Lindenwold N.J., Pastored by Bishop David G. Evans.

This Chicago-based gospel choir shook the music world with the release of their chart-topping project, “The Remix” featuring the 2005 version of one of their biggest hits, “Jesus Can Work It Out.” The choir picked up 2006 Stellar Awards for “Choir Of The Year” and “Music Video Of The Year.” Organized by Dr. Charles G. Hayes in 1960, this world renowned choir is recognized by industry leaders as one of the foremost traditional gospel choirs.

Darwin G. Jackson & Praise Ministry is a gospel group from Chicago. This group comes together from different churches in the Chicagoland area. Often described as “fresh” and “anointed”, they sing music that promises to bless people. The release of their current CD entitled “Hungry Soul” is blessing people all over the United States. They reach people of all races, ages and denominations. They are available for bookings.

Originating from Chicago, IL, Joshua’s Troop consists of more than 40 young people and a band that ranges in age from 16 to 22 years old. Blending urban and hip hop tracks with contemporary gospel, Joshua’s Troop proves to be a vocally experienced group beyond their youthful years. Joshua’s Troop is under the leadership of Pastor Charles Jenkins, successor to Pastor Clay Evans at Fellowship Baptist Church of Chicago. The name of the group came about as a result of the relationship between the two pastors. During the time of transition from Pastor Evans to Pastor Jenkins, they were referred to as Moses and Joshua. The name Joshua remained with Pastor Jenkins, and so the group became his troops…Joshua’s Troop. Their most recent project, JT3, included the smash hit, “Everybody Clap Your Hands.”

Currently residing in Chicago, Donald Lawrence is one of gospel music’s premiere artists. He has made his mark as a producer, arranger, and director whose prolific career has spanned over 15 years. Along with his world-renowned choir, Tri-City Singers (so-named because they hail from the three cities of Spartanburg, Gastonia and Charlotte, NC) Donald has released several highly successful albums, including 1993’s "A Songwriter’s Point of View," 1995’s "Bible Stories" and 2002’s "Go Get Your Life Back." In November 2005, the Tri-City Singers recorded their final project and in April 2006, EMI Gospel released "Finale: Act I & Act II," a double-CD & DVD set containing both new songs and all their classic hits recorded live. Donald plans to continue working on solo projects like "I Speak Life," for which he took home six Stellar Awards, and 2009’s The Law of Confession Part I for which he received a Stellar Award for Producer of The Year. Donald is also very active with the Recording Academy (the organization responsible for the Grammy Awards) and is a member of the Board of Governors for the Midwest Chapter.

A native Chicagoan, Dwayne was born the eighth child to Julious & Barbara Lee. Born into a large family of singers, he began singing at a very young age. He was so young in fact that his first appearances where on top of a milk crate, to allow the audiences to see as well as hear him. He is in the 3rd of 4 generations at the Apostolic Church of God, where the Bishop Arthur M. Brazier is pastor. The Church is located at 6320 South Dorchester in Chicago, IL. Dwayne Lee is known for his professional statue and powerful delivery whether for Sunday Services at his home Church or any other appearances. His Tenor Virtuoso voice showcases a wide range of vocal talents; his diverse style touches the heart of his listeners, helping them to submit to the will of God. He has been labeled the “Gospel Balladeer” by his peers because of his style. There is something special about Dwayne’s music ministry that, once it has been heard, it leaves an indelible impression on its audience. 

From an early age it was abundantly clear to Keshia that she was called to oracle ministry. From her humble beginnings singing in the children’s choir in her father’s church, 2:11 N. Cicero, on the Westside of Chicago, to watching her sister Kim McFarland’s rise to prominence singing with Walt Whitman and the Soul Children of Chicago as well as the Thompson Community Singers, Keshia has always been surrounded by this beautiful music—this music that told of the wonderful love of Jesus Christ. It was not a coincidence that she was surrounded by this culture of praise. It consumed her very being, and served as prelude to what God was to have her become. Following her own stint singing with Walt Whitman and also time spent ministering with Mark Hubbard and Ricky Dillard and the New Generation Chorale, Keshia was given a new assignment—that of being a solo artist. Now armed with a divinely inspired album entitled Covergirl, Keshia has all the makings of Gospel Music’s next superstar.

VaShawn Mitchell was born and raised in Chicago, IL. The city known as the birthplace of Gospel music quickly made its imprint on him. When he was barely a teenager, VaShawn became the assistant music director of St. Mark Baptist Church, working closely with nationally renowned choir leader Lonnie Hunter.For nearly a decade he served as Minister of Music at Bishop Larry D. Trotter’s Sweet Holy Spirit Church, setting the musical tone both within the church walls and on the ministry’s top-selling recording projects. Vashawn recently released Triumphant on EMI Gospel.

Currently signed to the New Haven record label, this 43-member Chicago-based choir was organized as a youth outreach in 1994 by gospel veterans and brothers, Jeral and Percy Gray. The choir’s name is inspired by its purpose, demonstrating that God provides “new direction.” Their debut CD was released in 1999, and since then they’ve received several Stellar, Dove and Grammy Award nominations. The choir has also backed Shirley Caesar on a number of projects including her 2002 CD, Hymns. Their third CD, Rain (GospoCentric) brought them a 2005 Stellar Award for “Choir Of The Year.” Their 5th project entitled Destiny released in 2009 carrys New Direction to higher heights.

EMI Gospel Music recording artist, singer, and classically trained pianist. Smokie Norful’s debut release, “I Need You Now” was certified gold (over 500,000 copies sold) and earned him 2003 Stellar Awards for “New Artist of The Year,” “Male Vocalist of The Year,” and “Contemporary Male Vocalist of The Year.” His sophomore release, “Nothing Without You,” earned Smokie his first Grammy Award for “Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album.” With over seven years in gospel music, he’s become a heavyweight of the genre, reaching benchmarks that have taken others a lifetime to achieve. In 2009, Norful went on to make Smokie Norful Live, his fourth EMI Gospel outing and first-ever live recording.

DeAndre Patterson is a gospel recording artist out of Chicago who is signed to Tyscot Records. Pastor Patterson is presently the pastor of the Destiny Worship Center of Chicago.

In 1996 the outreach ministry “Judah” was formed under the direction of Minister Reggie Royal. Judah has experienced great favor as they’ve shared the gift of music ministry and have been awarded great opportunities including the Chicago 2002 WGCI Gospel Home Jam Winner, and the Spirit of Uplift Award for Outstanding Outreach Contributions. They’ve also shared the stage with noted industry greats, such as Fred Hammond, Tye Tribbett, Kim Burrell and rendered inspirational selections with the legendary Paul Anka during his ‘01-’02 Midwest Tour. Additionally, they have been a featured guest of the Chicago Gospel Music Festival, House of Blues Gospel Brunch, Taste of Chicago, Bud Billiken Parade, ASAPH Conference in Nassau, Bahamas with Myles Munroe, Chicago Faith Conference with Bill Winston, Studio vocals for Al Hobbs (Aleho Records, GMWA Women of Worship), as well as covered telecast/broadcast services for Dr. Charles G. Hayes & The Cosmopolitan Warriors while they traveled. Minister Royal is currently the pastor of Lifeline Church in Cicero, IL.

JoAnn Rosario was born in Chicago to Rev. Nahum and Minerva Rosario, and is a former member of Fred Hammond’s group, Radical For Christ. She was first introduced to the world as a solo artist on “Fred Hammond Presents: In Case You Missed It …and Then Some.” Her debut project, “More, More, More” on F Hammond Music, earned her two Stellar Award nominations and a four month run on Billboard’s Gospel charts. Her sophomore release, “Now More Than Ever …Worship,” followed the diagnosis of and recovery from nodules on her vocal chords and is a testimony to God’s healing power. Joann served as the National Music Director for Maranatha World Revival Ministries where her father, Apostle Nahum Rosario, is the founder and pastor. The Chicago-based ministry has more than 500 affiliated churches around the world. Upon her marriage to Cory “CoCo Brother” Condrey, Joann has moved to Atlanta and is serving there in ministry with him. Now, with her husband, the ministry is expanding as they share the salvation message inside and outside the church walls through their national radio ministry CoCo Brother Live and STAND.

This worship and praise ministry is part of Valley Kingdom Ministries International, a 10,000-member non-denominational church based in Chicago, where Apostle H. Daniel Wilson serves as Senior Pastor. This ensemble is best known for their smash hit, “Praise Is What I Do,” featuring Elder William Murphy, which was certified Gold by RIAA and is heading toward Platinum. SGM’s second live praise and worship double CD, SHEKINAH GLORY MINISTRY LIVE, was released and immediately hit BILLBOARD charts where it remained for over 103 weeks and was also certified Gold by RIAA. Shekinah Glory Ministry continues to receive acclaim for their projects earning a Stellar Award in January 2009 for the “Praise and Worship CD of the Year” as well as a Chicago Music Award for the “Best Gospel CD of the Year”. Their newest release, Refreshed by Fire hits stores in September 2010.

Kevin Vasser’s released his debut recording, SO GLAD, in 2006. SO GLAD was driven by Vasser’s personal testimony—a testimony full of God’s faithfulness, promise and healing. This bona fide ‘church guy’ shares his journey – musically - from former leader of Chicago-based gospel group Youth Edition, to preacher to solo artist. SO GLAD was recorded live at Vasser’s home church, Fellowship Baptist Church in Chicago, IL, where the pastor is Pastor Charles Jenkins and Vasser serves as the Director of Worship & Arts. The recording is a true testament of faith for Vasser, who recorded the entire project on his own before signing with and releasing the project on EMI Gospel.

Hailed as the “Queen of Gospel,” Dr. Albertina Walker was born in 1929 in Chicago, IL.  At the age of four, Albertina began singing in the children’s choir of West Point Baptist Church. By the time she reached her late teens, Albertina was a member of the Williams singers, and toured with the Willie Webb and Robert Anderson Singers. At the urging of Mahalia Jackson, in 1951 at just twenty-two years of age Ms. Walker organized her own gospel singing group- the world famous CARAVANS.  It was in this legendary group that Albertina discovered and launched the careers of Inez Andrews, Shirley Caesar, the late, Cassietta George, Dorothy Norwood, Delores Washington and the late and great, Reverend James Cleveland among a host of others.  After a stellar career with her group, The Caravans, Albertina went on to phenomenal success as a solo artist recording her first project “Put A Little Love in Your Heart” in 1975, produced by Donnie Hathaway.  To date, Ms. Walker has written over 100 songs such as, “I’ve Got A Feeling Everything Will Be Alright” and “Jesus Will Fix It;” recorded 71 albums, including hits such as the gold selling “Please Be Patient With Me,” “I Can Go To God In Prayer,” “Spread The Word,” “The Best Is Yet To Come,” Work On Me” and “Joy Will Come.”  Albertina still enjoys an active recording career recently reuniting with her group, The Caravans, in 2006 to release the entitled album “Paved The Way,” and are currently working on their new 2010 release while often lending her talents to the projects of other gospel artists.  . Albertina Walker’s gift in music ministry and unselfish commitment to humanity for over six decades has earned her many awards and honors.  Among them, a 1995 Grammy Award for the Best Traditional Gospel Album (“Songs of The Church”); 11 Grammy Award nominations; 2005 Grammy President’s Merit Award; 6 Gold Records; 4 Stellar Awards; BMI Award; several Gospel Music Workshop of America Excellence Awards; 2004 Trumpet Award; inducted into the 1997 and 2001 Gospel Music Hall of Fame in Detroit, Michigan and Nashville, Tennessee; several keys to cities such as Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles and New York; honored at the Chicago Gospel Festival where a bench bearing her name was placed in downtown Chicago’s Grant Park and a Chicago street renamed in her honor; conferred an honorary Doctor of Letters degree from the Chicago Theological Seminary (an institution of the University of Chicago); a 2005 National Endowment of The Arts Award of $ 20,000.00; a National Association of Broadcasters Pioneer Award; and a 2010 Kennedy Center Honor saluting Gospel Music.  In 2002, the former President of the United States, President Bush, honored Ms. Walker for her contributions to gospel music at a special ceremony held at the White House in Washington D.C. in recognition of Black Music Month.    

Mr. Walter Whitman never intended to create one of the most inspiring stories in gospel music during the past two decades. But with faith in God and a conviction to help children and motivate audiences, Mr. Whitman created one of the most celebrated youth choirs in the world-The Soul Children of Chicago. During the past 25 years, he has utilized music as a catalyst to develop the minds, hearts and souls of over 1000 children. Under the direction of Mr. Whitman, the Soul Children of Chicago have produced Seven albums: Reaching the Nations (2005), The Best of Soul Children (2006),We Are One (1988), Generation X (1999), Growing Up (1996), Live and Blessed (1991) and This Is The Day (1996).   

Sonja is the co-founder and Minister of Music of High Praise Chorale Ensemble. She is best known for writing the song entitled “More Abundantly” that was initially recorded by Ricky Dillard & New G (New Generation Chorale). “More Abundantly” appeared on the album, The Promise, which was nominated for a Grammy award and was on the Billboard charts for several weeks. This song became so popular that it was played in television and movie projects and re-recorded by various artists. Sonja’s debut CD entitled PRAISE ON MY LIPS was released in December 2005.  

Minister Arthur Williams, accomplished musician, songwriter, and singer, is a native of Chicago, Illinois. Arthur’s grandfather who was a pastor recognized his musical gift and encouraged him to strengthen it. So at the age of twelve, Arthur began taking piano lessons. While in Chicago, Minister Williams was noted for developing excellent church choirs. He taught and directed several children’s school choirs as well as church choirs. He was blessed to play for the renowned Rev. James Cleveland in the Gospel Music Workshop of America for seven years. He has also accompanied and written songs for such recording artists as Albertina Walker, Stan Pearson, Rev. Clay Evans, and Ron Ellerson and Sounds Unlimited. Minister Williams’s travels have taken him on a European tour with Jessie Dixon to Germany, Norway, and to France with the Shirley Walls Singers. He was so well received in Norway that he has returned several times to conduct music workshops. He relocated to Albuquerque, NM in 2001 to be the Minister of Music under the leadership of Bishop David C. Cooper. He is currently the Minister of Music at Shiloh Baptist Church in Albuquerque. Soon after his arrival, God gave Minister Williams the vision of starting a multicultural choir. God has called Minister Williams into the ministry since starting the NMMC and has shown him His plan for reaching a world-wide audience through the recording industry.  

Malcolm Williams & Great Faith is a Chicago-based gospel group, originally organized in 1994 as The Voices of Great Faith. In 1997, Malcolm Williams & The Voices of Great Faith won prestigious gospel competitions sponsored by Wrigley and McDonald’s, and also earned Chicago radio station Gospel 1390’s Choir Award. They recorded their debut album, Gotta Make It in 1998, four years later they released Renew Me. In 2006, they released their 3rd project, My Destiny, which earned a Stellar Award nomination. The 4th project, In Your Glory is the first for Williams’ Malcolm James Music imprint. The Malcolm Williams & Great Faith Live In Concert DVD was released in late 2009.

This Chicago native is probably gospel’s most well known organist. The Christian Tabernacle Concert Choir, which he founded in 1960 “rocks like a big band on up-tempo selections and harmonizes with such precision on slow numbers that it sounds more like a giant pipe organ than a roomful of voices.” (according to Chicago Reader critic Lee Hildebrand). Their 1969 song “Hello Sunshine” was a cross-over R&B hit, and his 1954 Vee-Jay recording of Amazing Grace” remains the best-selling instrumental in African-American gospel history. “. Some of the great albums in his discography include “Living the Gospel,” “Taste of Good Gospel,” “Something Within Me,” “Live Gospel Experience,” “I’m Saved,” “Happy in Jesus,” and “Hello Sunshine: The Volt Recordings.”