Event Details: “Juneteenth: Freedom’s Song” is a vibrant showcase featuring a sonic timeline of spirituals and gospel music that narrates the African American journey towards freedom. This event captures the profound essence of songs that have not only enriched the gospel genre but also significantly influenced the movement for freedom and equality in America. Admission is ticketed but free to the public.

Highlights:

  • Musical Direction by Telly Tucker: Experience the dynamic leadership of Telly Tucker, bringing together the most resonant and soul-stirring melodies.
  • Sonic Timeline: Journey through the pivotal moments of history with music that inspired generations.
  • Spoken Word Performances: Engage with powerful narratives and reflections that complement the musical performances, adding depth and context to the evening

Thank you to this evening's Sponsors!

Musical Performances By:

The Choir – Sopranos:
 
Morgan Quinn (Soloist)
ShaMekya Allen (Soloist)
Angela Parker
Sabrina Brown
Sherrell Preston
Jaqueline Burgess
Jennifer Carson
Sheron Simpson

The Choir – Altos:

Paris Jackson (Soloist)
LaShan Wilkes
Barbara Edwards  (Soloist)
Erin Reid Austin
Carla Hamilton
Lisa Culpepper Beverly
Janet Stewart

The Choir – Tenors:

Tony Chilton
Tony Dickerson
Elder Simeon Johnson (Soloist)
Eugene H. Penick (Soloist)
Dr. John Hughes IV(Soloist)
Dr. James Stewart  (Soloist)
Kelvin Davis (Soloist)
The Musicians:
 
Timothy Davis – Organ
Jeff Wilkes – Bass
Phinees Robert – Guitar
Tanner Sharpe – Keyboard
Gerald Tench II – Percussion
Telly Tucker – Musical Director/Keyboard

Juneteenth Celebration Program

Segment 1: Spirituals of the Enslavement Period (Pre-Civil War Era)

Choir Performance: 
  1. “Go Down Moses” – Solo by Euguene Pennick
  2. “Wade in the Water” – Solo by Dr. John Hughes IV 
  3. Narration and Song Medley: By Dr. James Stewart lead with Choir accompaniment – “Swing Low Sweet Chariot/Every time I Feel The Spirit/Amazing Grace”
  4. “Hush – Somebody’s Calling My Name” – Full Choir

Poet Performance 1: Dynasty – Angelina Dawn

Segment 2: Gospel During the Post-Civil War Era

Choir Performance:

  1. “Oh Freedom” – Full Choir
  2. Gospel Church Medley  Led by Elder Simeon Johnson with Full Choir Audience participation – “I Believe, Jesus on the Mainline, Glory Glory, Amen” 

Poet Performance 2: Black America – Living Proof

Segment 3: Jim Crow Era

Choir Performance:

  1. “Precious Lord”, Take My Hand – Solo by Barbara Edwards
  2. “Lord Don’t Move that Mountain” – Solo by Paris Jackson
  3. “Hem of His Garment” – Quartet Led by Kelvin Davis with background accompaniment by Jeff Wilkes, Telly Tucker, Dr. John Hughes IV
  4. “We Shall Overcome” – Audience

[ INTERMISSION ]

Segment 4: The Civil Rights Era

Performance: 

  1. “Oh Happy Day” led by Elder Simeon Johnson
  2. “I Know I’ve Been Changed” – ShaMekya Allen
  3. “How I Got Over” – Minister Barbara Edwards
  4. “God Is” – Elder Simeon Johnson
  5. “Thank you” -Minister Barbara Edwards

Segment 5: 70s  and Beyond

Performance: 

  1. “Jesus Can Work it Out” – Led by Paris Jackson with Full Choir
  2. “Yesterday” – Led by ShaMekya Allen with Full Choir
  3. “Total Praise” – Full Choir
  4. “For Every Mountain” – Led by Morgan Quinn with Full Choir 

Closing Congregational Song:

  1. “Lift Every Voice and Sing” – Full Choir and Congregation