In a frantic hurry from a typically busy day, I rushed into Prudential Hall last Thursday night just as the flashing lights signaled showtime. NJPAC presented Hezekiah Walker & Friends: a celebration of gospel featuring a local choir, gospel acts and a couple powerhouse spirit filled headliners.
As i took my favorite box seat in the fabulous Prudential Hall I suspiciously underestimated the power of the night. Would I really be able to sit through a full concert after a full day of obligations and no dinner?
With the dimming of the house lights I was promptly transported beyond my reality into a sweet intersection of harmony, spirituality and deep tradition. After all gospel music origins date back to the 17th century with deep roots in the black oral tradition and call & response. So I figured the audience participation would help keep me engaged even if the event disappointed.
As the choirs grew in size, sound and pizazz so did the audiences enthusiasm. JJ Hairston + Youthful Praise delivered a particularly soul stirring set and left the crowd in an extended infectious praise break.
Newark’s own Metropolitan Baptist Church Choir, Hezekiah Walker and Love Fellowship Choir, DeWayne Woods, Vashawn Mitchell, Tasha Cobbs and Erica Campbell all carefully contributed astronomically to a wonderfully curated and brilliantly produced night of gospel music.
Hosted by the adorable Liz Black (who satirically ragged on Beyonce’s GRAMMY performance) and sponsored by WLIB 1190 and 107.5 WBLS, Hezekiah Walker & Friends did not disappoint even a little. Although the night did end relatively late (11:15pm) I certainly didn’t mind it. Gospel concerts, much like black church services have the ability to run on their own timetable.
And it is that music- gospel music, that kept me excited and engaged all evening. Traditional hymns, gospel ballads and contemporary praise songs about perseverance, calling, Gods power reminded me of the importance of faith and the transformative power of music.
Music has been apart of the black culture since inception. It transcend orientation, denomination, political views and social class. Music delivers a personal invitation beckoning your attention and discourse. When we experience gospel music, it suspends our reality, forces us to reflect and then encourages us to carry on.
In the busyness of our millennial lives we should set aside time to support the live arts. No, I don’t mean Youtubing singers on your iPad! We should find time to take in a concert or go the theater. Get out and support artists. It enriches our quality of life, engages community, inspires us and helps to support an industry often under appreciated. I wait with clinched anticipation for what is shaping up to be one incredible year for the arts!
courtesy(GN)
No comments:
Post a Comment