It's no secret, New Orleans is known the world over, for it's abundance of musical talents. When one thinks of New Orleans; jazz and great rhythm and blues automatically comes to mind. But, at the forefront of those styles, is the foundation of it all, good old hand-clapping, foot-stomping gospel music. One of the most prolific gospel artists in this City that care forgot, is THE JOYFUL GOSPEL SINGERS, USA., the region's most traveled gospel Choir.
The JOYFUL GOSPEL SINGERS(JGS) is a direct spin-off of the widely acclaimed band JOYFUL!( soulful gospel and R&B styles). In the beginning, JGS was originally back-up singers for JOYFUL!, who made a name for themselves performing at major festivals and big venues in the U. S. and Europe. During the latter part of 1990, JOYFUL developed quite a following of devoted fans in Europe at large concerts and open-air venues. They also noticed that there was a need for more traditional gospel styles. The gospel JOYFUL was offering to the festival-going crowds was exciting but, certainly was not appropriate for fans at Christmas, Easter or large church concerts. Therefore, JGS became the more traditional answer.
Understanding the interest of the European audience had for traditional gospel, JOYFUL launched their back up singers, along with several other professional singers and local musicians to form JGS, an independent and self contained singing group. They wanted to perform and record more of the traditional styles of great gospel music. The first recordings by JGS (1989/1990) were compilations done on JOYFUL projects. To this date, their contributions to those projects have received critical acclaim. These recordings are being distributed by some of Europe's largest distributors. The group just recently recorded their own full length compact disc on the New Orleans-based, Rampart Street Music label.
Once JGS started making their own recordings , it also meant they would have to start touring on their own, as well. JGS(JOYFUL GOSPEL SINGERS, USA) now tours Europe regularly each year and have become successful on their own merits. Today, JGS has become one of Germany, Italy and Switzerland's hottest gospel properties. Unlike their counter-part, they lean toward pure gospel and spiritual renditions. They have become an endearing part of the musical culture in Europe, as thousands look to see and hear them in and about various venues each year.
JGS showcases from 9 to 15 people on stage. The 4-piece band and road manager are included in this number.
JGS has appeared with greats such as Yolanda Adams, Thelma Houston, Bryan Adams, Earth Wind and Fire, Stacy Latisaw, Dougie Fresh, Harlem Gospel Singers, Kirk Franklin, Blues diva, Marva Wright and the pop German group PUR.
Collectively, these singers have over 200 years of professional gospel experience with some of New Orleans legendary groups such as, BASIC, GOSPEL SOUL CHILDREN, DESIRE COMMUNITY CHOIR, ZION HARMONIZERS and many great church choral groups.
Additionally, JGS has performed at the world-famous Monterey Jazz Festival, in California, traveled to the American Virgin Islands, not to mention their stellar performances at the The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival each year. Through-out the year, they showcase their talents for many well established corporations who frequent the New Orleans convention scene.In live performances, they play all the old standards as well as new choral arrangements that are fast becoming so popular in the United States. Their repertoire includes songs like : Down by the Riverside, Amazing Grace, Oh Happy Day, Stand By Me, This little Light of Mine, Kum By Ya, Glory, Glory, Hallelujah, Walk with me, The Old Rugged Cross. The group also has a wide array of seasonal songs(Christmas, Easter etc.)
Come on, Let's Shout! with some good old, foot-stomping, hand clapping, JOYFUL GOSPEL SINGING.
JAMALAR/RAMPART STREET MUSIC
P.O. Box 850092
New Orleans, La. 70185
(504) 943-0353, fax 943- 0468
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