Cora Jackson-Fossett

Black History Spotlight – Kidd and Tatum Maintained Gospel Radio Legacy

Paul E. R. Kidd, Jr. Paul Edward Ramson Kidd Jr. ruled the gospel music airwaves for more than 50 years. Based in Los Angeles, his show aired locally as well as on the Armed Forces Radio Network (AFRN), which comprised 400 radio stations located in 28 countries. A native of Kansas City, Missouri, Kidd was born into a devout Christian family. His father was an AME itinerant elder who served as pastor of First AME Church in San Francisco in Walker Temple AME Church in Los Angeles. Kidd came to L.A. in 1956 following his honorable discharge from the military

From Child Phenom to Major Star, Dawnn Lewis Continues to Shine

Dawnn Lewis (Manuel Harlan photo) Dawnn Lewis is like a close family friend. She’s endeared herself to audiences around the globe who watched her amazing growth from child phenom to major star. Yet, throughout her journey to being a top celebrity, Lewis has never lost the ability to connect with everyday people, which is likely one reason that admirers feel they personally know her. Audiences are resonating with Lewis even more after witnessing her performance in “Tina – The Tina Turner Musical,” which is currently playing on Broadway in New York City. In her role as Turner’s mother, Zelma, Lewis

GMWA Honors Gospel Legends and Supporters at Annual Concert

Shouts of “hallelujah” and “praise God” were heard throughout the “Back To The Old Landmark” concert, which was sponsored by the Gospel Music Workshop of America – L.A. Chapter on Feb. 9. The annual event, held at People’s Independent Church of Christ in Los Angeles, attracted a capacity crowd to hear regional and nationally known gospel vocalists and musicians deliver a range of beloved selections. The theme was “Remembering Songs from the Golden Age of Gospel Music.” Living legends in attendance included Kenneth Glover, Annette May Thomas and Madeline Thompson of The Clara Ward Singers, who all sang melodies of

GMWA – L.A. Chapter Holds ‘Back To The Old Landmark’ Concert

The Gospel Music Workshop of America – L.A. Chapter will hold its ‘Back To The Old Landmark’ concert on Sunday, Feb. 9, at 4 p.m., at the People’s Independent Church of Christ, 5856 West. Blvd., in Los Angeles. The annual event features regional and nationally-known gospel vocalists and musicians as well as recognizes contributors to the endurance of the genre, said the Rev. Calvin B. Rhone, chapter representative. “This year, we went outside the circle of singers, musicians, songwriters and directors to select our honorees,” said Rhone. “We will salute several people who have peripherally served and supported the ministry

Cliff Hall, Sentinel Photographer and Car Designer, Passes Away

As a photographer, Cliff Hall had few equals. His artistic talents graced the pages of the Los Angeles Sentinel as he chronicled the news, social and entertainment life of the African American community in the 1950s and 1960s. Many Whites celebrities in Hollywood and Bel Air utilized his services as well.

Johnson is Banking on South L.A.’s Success

As executive director of Community Development Banking for JPMorgan Chase, Malcolm A. Johnson leads the company’s initiatives to assist residents, businesses, schools and nonprofits.

Love for Christ Directs Music Career of The Zion Messengers

  God has blessed The Zion Messengers beyond measure and He shows no sign of ceasing. Preparing to release their third album, the group has yielded to God’s direction and significantly benefitted from all He’s enabled them to do. The L.A.-based quintet consists of Travion Howze, vocals; Anthony Gates, vocals; Chris McFrazier, keyboard and vocals; Jesse Robinson IV, bass guitar; Tarron Overshown, drums; and Charles “Uncle Chucc” Hamilton, lead guitar and vocals. Unified in their focus, The Zion Messengers readily admit that their relationship with Christ combined with their desire to sing ignited their rise towards the top of a