Gospel fans will get a little more soul, hints of R&B style and classic gospel music when the UAB Gospel Choir presents a fall concert, celebrating its 17th anniversary with a live recording for CD.
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The concert is planned for 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 19, 2012, at UAB’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center, 1200 10th Ave. South. It will be the perfect event to start off the holiday season the Monday before Thanksgiving, says UAB Gospel Choir Director Kevin P. Turner, D.D.
“The design of this concert for live recording truly expands the boundaries of traditional American gospel music by incorporating the unmistakable riffs of ’70s soul music, even transforming the style of R&B ballads into what we call R&P, or rhythm and praise,” Turner says. The design and name of the CD, “Nu-Soul City,” is an indication of what will be inside, Turner says. The CD will be released in both the gospel and neo-soul categories. Pre-order forms will be included in the concert’s printed program.
Composers include Turner and Freda Givens (“Whom Shall I Fear”). The CD will be co-produced by Clinton Green and Timothy George. Fresh from the choir’s fall tour, the show will feature the choir’s new lead vocalists, Di’Vincente “Jay” Simmons and Chelseay Blades, plus local singers Valerie T-Smith Giles, Steven D. Wilson and E. Marie Gray. This CD also serves as the national debut of the UAB Youth Gospel Choir, a group of local 12- to 18-year-old singers, who will be featured on the track composed by Turner, titled “Amen.” Those interested in participating in three rehearsals and the performance can send their name and contact information to kturner@uab.edu. For large groups, such as from community centers and churches, please send one email with group information.
Tickets to the concert are available at the UAB Ticket Office, 205-934-8006, and at the Alys Stephens Center Box Office, 205-975-2787. General admission tickets are $8; $7 for UAB students and employees with valid UAB ID; and $6 tickets with a group discount for 25 or more, advance purchase required.