The Rev. James Cleveland made an undeniably lasting mark on every aspect of gospel music, from songwriting to arranging to producing and recording.
His indelible legacy will be saluted at ‘A Celebration of the Life, Music and Ministry of Rev. James Cleveland’ on Sunday, December 7 at 4 p.m., at People’s Independent Church of Christ, 5856 West Boulevard in Los Angeles.
According to Bishop Craig A. Worsham, senior pastor, the Los Angeles Chapter of the Gospel Music Workshop of America (GMWA) will present the tribute.
“People’s Independent serves as the headquarters for the GMWA – LA Chapter and we are excited to host this celebration in honor of the ‘King of Gospel Music.’
“Through his trail-blazing efforts, Rev. Cleveland introduced Black gospel music to the America masses, becoming among the first Black cross-over recording artists and spreading the message of Christ to countless people,” said Bishop Worsham.
“This event is a program that your entire family will enjoy and we urge the community to join Dr. Rodena Preston and the GMWA – LA Chapter for this uplifting program.”
As the founder of GMWA, the Rev. Cleveland created an organization to train others to achieve the modern gospel sound that he became famous for and that served as a launching place for many popular gospel artists and choirs. Currently, GMWA boasts more than 30,000 members in 150 chapters.
Also, the Rev. Cleveland had a long history in Los Angeles. He served as minister of music at Everfaithful Baptist Church under Pastor T.J. Chambers, Jr., co-minister of music with musician Eddie Kendricks at Grace Memorial Church of God in Christ, formed the James Cleveland Singers that included recording artist, Billy Preston, and organized Cornerstone Institutional Baptist Church in a former grocery store on the corner of Slauson Boulevard and Western Avenue in Los Angeles. Each week, thousands filled the pews to enjoy the worship services.
During his distinguished music career, the Rev. Cleveland collaborated with a range of artists including Preston, Albertina Walker, Aretha Franklin and Elton John. He also formed several award-winning groups such as the Southern California Community Choir.
The Rev. Cleveland passed away in 1991, but his legacy continues through his music, which is still played on radio stations across the nation and performed by top recording artists.
For information about the salute to the Rev. Cleveland, call (310) 673-3124.
