Rev. James Cleveland

Aretha’s Friends Recall Her Faith and Love of Gospel

Cora Jackson-Fossett, Religion EditorAugust 23, 2018

The passing of the legendary Aretha Franklin on August 16, prompted scores of admirers – from recording artists to musicians to U.S. presidents – to offer tributes and memories of her impact on the world. But before she became known as “The Queen of Soul,” Aretha was a strong believer in God and expressed her faith through her music. The Rev. Dr. Melvin V. Wade, Sr., pastor emeritus of Mount Moriah Baptist Church in Los Angeles, was close to Aretha’s father, the Rev. C.L. Franklin, and remembered that the singer had strong faith even as a child. “She was raised

Legendary Musician Rodena Preston Williams Passes

Cora Jackson-Fossett, Religion EditorSeptember 20, 2017

Rodena Preston Williams, who passed on Sept. 15 in Los Angeles, was heralded across the nation as an amazing pianist, director and arranger. She worked with many gospel greats throughout her career. (Family photo) The gospel music community lost a legendary giant with the passing of Dr. Rodena Preston Williams of Sept. 15 in Los Angeles. Known throughout the industry as an exceptional pianist, director and arranger, Williams was a child prodigy who grew up to work closely with the late Rev. James Cleveland and many other gospel greats. She also organized the award-winning Voices of Deliverance that released five

Religion

Legendary Musician Rodena Preston Passes Away

Cora Jackson-Fossett, Religion EditorSeptember 17, 2017

The gospel music community lost a legendary giant with the passing of Dr. Rodena Preston Williams on Sept. 15 in Los Angeles. Known throughout the industry as an exceptional pianist, director and arranger, Williams was child prodigy who grew up to work closely with the late Rev. James Cleveland and many other gospel greats. She also organized the award-winning Voices of Deliverance that released five albums in the 1970s. A gospel musical celebrating her life is planned for Thursday, Sept. 28, at 7 p.m., and her homegoing service is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 29, at 11 a.m. The location of