Copyright © 2024 Interactive One, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Trending
By blending elements of black culture, the campus environment affectionately known as “the yard,” Greek life, and some of the most memorable years of your life, you’ll immerse yourself in the unique and transformative experience of an HBCU. These institutions become more than just places of education; they become communities that foster lifelong connections and a profound sense of identity.
SEE ALSO: Hampton University Announces New School Of Religion
The energy of stepping onto “the yard” is electric, resonating with the echoes of generations who walked the same paths, creating an atmosphere where traditions are not just observed, but lived. An experience that can’t be explained—it’s a feeling, a shared history, and a celebration of excellence.
Historically black colleges have been around for centuries and some of your favorite inspirational figures have attended these HBCUs. Here’s a look at gospel artists who made a name for themselves in the classroom before they made a name for themselves in the spotlight.
The post Gospel Artists Who Went To An HBCU appeared first on Elev8.
Gospel Artists Who Went To An HBCU was originally published on elev8.com
Transitioning from an elementary school teacher to a captivating songstress, Yolanda Adams always possessed the ability to command attention in any room. Despite graduating in 1984 with a degree in Journalism, it wasn’t until four years later that Adams redirected her focus, embarking on a career as a four-time Grammy award-winning musician. In 2017, she had the privilege to return back to her alma mater as the university’s winter commencement speaker.
You know you’ve achieved success when you have an entire center named after you on the very grounds where you’re earning your degree. In 2020, Hezekiah went on to obtain a masters in theology from Virginia Union University. While pursuing his studies, just one year later, he not only launched a center, but also conducted his very first virtual class at The Hezekiah Walker Center—a dedicated space aimed at giving Gospel music the recognition it deserves.
Smokie graduated from the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff with a Bachelors of History in 1995. During undergrad at Pine Bluff, Smokie crossed through the Gamma Sigma chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Despite his strong passion for music, he dedicated seven years to education. He spent the first couple of years teaching history at two of his childhood schools before settling in at Evanston Township High School in Illinois. Although he excelled in teaching, Smokie’s profound love for music eventually took precedence, leading him to embark on a gospel career in 2002 that would ultimately transform him into a Grammy award-winning artist.
Tasha Cobbs Leonard exemplifies the power of belief and achievement. At the tender age of 10, she was captivated by a commercial showcasing Clark Atlanta University, and from that moment, she became determined to follow in her parents’ footsteps. With both her mother and father being alumni of CAU, it felt only natural for Tasha to pursue the same path. Anticipating her destiny, she applied exclusively to Clark while still in high school and secured admission as an undergraduate student in 1999. Despite completing only one year of undergraduate studies, Tasha returned in 2021 to pursue advanced education, enrolling in the school’s Pastoral Leadership and Religious Studies program.
Attending one of the most renowned HBCUs in the country is an accomplishment, but founding the university’s esteemed gospel choir takes it to another level. It’s a feat Richard Smallwood can proudly claim. He had the privilege of being a student at Howard University for both his undergraduate and graduate studies. Graduating with dual degrees in classical vocal performance and piano, he continued his academic journey to earn a Master of Divinity in 2004. Despite the demanding workload, Richard’s efforts paid off. During his freshman year, he formed a friendship with upperclassman Donny Hathaway and became part of a gospel group Donny occasionally played for, known as “The Celestials” (a precursor to Howard’s gospel choir). In 1969, he took the initiative to establish what is now the university’s gospel choir.
Prior to claiming the ninth spot in the fifth season of American Idol, Mandisa had already captivated audiences with her remarkable vocal range while performing with the esteemed Fisk Jubilee Singers. After a short stint at American River College where she studied vocal jazz, Mandisa went on to continue her studies at Fisk University in Nashville, graduating with a Bachelor of Music degree, specializing in vocal performance. Despite not earning the winning title on American Idol, she achieved significant success by winning a Grammy Award for Best Christian Contemporary Music Album in 2014.
Fresh out of high school, Shirley Caesar enrolled at North Carolina Central College to pursue Business Education. However, her path was redirected, leading her into ministry and later joining The Caravans with Albertina Walker in 1958. By 1971, she had already clinched her first Grammy award, setting the stage for more to come. Despite leaving college early on, Shirley remained determined to finish what she started. In 1985, she fulfilled that goal by completing her studies at Shaw University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Business Management.
Renowned gospel artist Twinkie Clark, a member of “The Clark Sisters,” pursued formal music studies at Howard University. While studying at the university, she received specialized training in piano, honing her musical skills that would ultimately catapult her to fame. During her time at HU, Twinkie actively contributed her talents to the Howard University gospel choir. While she attributes her innate talents to her late mother, her exposure to music during her undergraduate years also played a significant role.
We care about your data. See our privay policy.
