McDonald’s Gospelfest 2009

Gospel Music’s Finest Sent the Praises Up and the Blessings Came Down - Literally

Hopefully you were in the NY/NJ area this past weekend. If not, you missed an amazing Gospel concert. Once again, the new state-of-the-art Prudential Center in Newark, NJ hosted the McDonald's Gospelfest. The lineup was a harmonious mixture of Gospel's Who's Who and the venue was packed.

The day's festivities kicked off early Saturday morning with competitors of all ages, races, cultures and faiths competing in a variety of categories in an attempt to share the stage with Gospel's finest artist's.

Appropriately titled, “the most spectacular Gospel celebration in the nation”, the McDonald's Gospelfest served up an amazing group of folks to a packed house of praisers and worshippers. Each performer approached the stage with great humility, honor and Grace. They knew from where their blessings flowed.

During the concert that included names like: CeCe and BeBe Winans, Hezekiah Walker, J. Moss, Vickie Winans, Regina Belle, Cissy Houston and Lastly, Patti LaBelle it was hard to find a seated attendee.

There was even a brief appearance from Newark's Mayor Cory booker .

Personally, I was in awe with all of the performers. CeCe sang with such angelic power and passion. Her attire matched her sound and her beauty glowed. We were then invited to share in the wonderful pairing when CeCe proceeded to bring BeBe on stage with her to sing, “Close to You,” their new single. It was reminiscent of the days of old and beautiful to see.

With a tendency to get caught up in the hype and excitement of the entertainer's, we must remember that concert's like this are truly about purpose, and many who come know this, but sometimes we need someone to be remind us. Pastor Donnie McClurkin was that someone. While on stage he lovingly, but with great pastoral authority, reminded everyone that this evening was not about entertainment but Gospel music's power to awake the spirit; that it was about Gods glorification. As Pastor of Perfecting Faith Church in Long Island, Pastor Donnie never misses an opportunity to awake the consciousness of those he ministers to.

Bishop Hezekiah Walker blazed the audience with “Souled Out” from his newest chart stopping album. Everyone was on their feet. Vickie Winans brought along, not only her heart and passion for praise, but her comedic timing; we were all in stitches. Before leaving the stage she introduced us to her latest song, only digitally mastered the day before.

No matter how many times I witness their ministries, I'm always inspired and encouraged when it's over. However, the wonderful surprise for me was New Jersey native, Regina Belle. Seeing her for the first time since giving her life to the Lord was priceless. She had such a presence on stage and commanded everyone's attention when she bellowed, “Let's have some church in here,” to the crowd.

Known for her stellar R&B/Jazz career, Regina Belle, a Grammy award winning grandmother still exudes amazing youthful presence and powerful vocals. Her intention as she ministers God's Word through song is undeniable. There was a freedom in her voice and stage performance.

Then out of the blue, everyone that was backstage was requested to leave. Now I'm backstage with my girl Melinda Watts 2008 Gospel Dream Winner, Michelle Hargrove Pres. of VC Legacy , Mr. Jules Bartholomew of JudaCamp, EJ and his wonderful wife from Gospel Pundit, Toya Beasley WRKS- FM and a crew of others. At first we didn't know why we were being told to leave, especially since we had been back there so long, but it turns out the fabulous Ms. LaBelle was coming out to close out the concert. She wasn't playin'. When I tell you security was tight – it was tight!

The evening ended with the incomparable and humble Patti Labelle. In true Labelle form she sang her heart out. She took songs from her past and created inspirational songs that sought to honor God. One of her signature tunes, “Over the Rainbow” was one in which she recreated for the Gospelfest crowd. At one point Ms. LaBelle noticed that people were getting up and leaving due to the late hour. She assured them that it was ok to leave; she knew it had been a very long day for most of them, but that she was honored that they stayed long enough to see her.

However, she was totally committed to those who stayed. Even if only one person was seated, I believed her performance would have been the same. She not only kicked off her shoes, but laid on the stage and sang. Some may say it was too much, but those of us with LaBelle history would have been disappointed had we not seen the true Patti.

The evening was elegant, powerful, joyous and glorifying! Next year can't come fast enough.