Sunday Wake Up Call

I was going thru my iTunes library and had one of those “where are they now?” moments. A self-taught pianist who began began writing his own songs by age 10. A pioneer in gospel music as an artist, performer, song writer, producer. An inductee of the Gospel Music Association’s Gospel Music Hall of Fame. Toured 68 countries. His songs have been recorded by Elvis Presley, Paul Simon, CeCe Winans, Joe Sample and many others. Winner of 9 Grammy Awards, 6 GMA Dove Awards, Oscar Nominated, NAACP Awards, honary Doctorate from Berklee School of Music. One of only three gospel musicians honored with a star in the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Worked as a producer or arranger with Michael Jackson, Madonna (Like A Prayer), Quincy Jones, Diana Ross, Elton John and Rick Astley (Cry For Help). Film credits that include Once Upon A Forest, The Color Purple, The Lion King, and Free Willy. I am talking about none other than the Father of Contemporary Gospel. The legendary Andraé Crouch.

Mighty Wind, a two year project released in 2006, is celebration of 40 yrs of Andraé Crouch, that man and his musc. Notable special guests include Marvin Winans, Fred Hammond, Tata Vega, Crystal Lewis and Karen Clark-Sheard as well as other talented vocalist and musicians. “I Was Glad”, “All Because of Jesus” and “Bless the Lord (chant)” (Sister Carly, you may get away with this one ), “Come Home” , “O Give Thanks” – its all good.

I need to see if some of my favorite albums I grew up with (No Time to Lose, Finally), as well as some from the early years with his group The Disciples, are available for digital download. That will save me from having to go thru the cassette collection in a box in the basement and converting them.

To answer the question “where are they now?”, since the early 90’s he has been pastoring the church founded by his father, New Christ Memorial Church, in San Fernando, CA.

~ by allpointsbulletin on July 5, 2009.