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Philadelphia’s St. Thomas Gospel Choir performed a jubilant musical service of gospel and gospel influenced R&B at a Gospel Roots of Rock and Soul event on Saturday, October 20th at the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas in Overbrook. Under the musical direction of Walt Blocker, the choir, backed by a five piece band, filled the beautiful church with a mix of gospel favorites, anthem styled songs, original songs and a couple of R&B classics. Highlights of the program included Richard Smallwood’s “Total Praise,” Bishop TD Jakes’ “You’re Majesty,” “Let Us Lift Up Holy Hands,” a rousing cover of Aretha Franklin’s “Respect” and an uplifting version of U2’s “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For.” There’s a reason why the St. Thomas Gospel Choir is called the “hardest working choir on this side of Heaven.” Through praise and their mighty voices, the standing room only crowd were up on their feet clapping along to the group’s exhilarating performance.
Photos by Josh Pelta-Heller for WXPN. This concert was produced for WXPN’S GOSPEL ROOTS OF ROCK AND SOUL. GOSPEL ROOTS OF ROCK AND SOUL has been supported by The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage.
