Even though the song featured gospel artists Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music, Kierra Sheard, and Chandler Moore, I don’t think it qualifies GloRilla as a gospel artist. Then again, I’m not sure what the qualifications are to be considered a gospel singer.
The lines are blurred in many areas of our daily lives, making it difficult to distinguish what is what. However, I’m quite sure that I was at the closest thing to a gospel concert when I went to see a performance from Jonathan McReynolds.
The Chicago native had a live taping of him performing songs from his upcoming album “Closer.” The event took place in McReynolds’ hometown at the Greenwood Oasis. I need to write a book called “I got there late,” so let’s start there. I got there late and was approached by four or five different staff members.
Either no one had a media list or was unaware that some media members were invited to the performance. Despite their ignorance, the staff was cordial, polite, and respectful. Once we got an understanding, I was left alone to watch the show. What I witnessed was a good performance from Jonathan McReynolds. More intriguing to me was the energy from the crowd. It’s nothing like watching Black people worshipping.
Amongst the crowd, you could hear the “hallelujahs”, yes lord, and praise God, which was just as entertaining as the performance. The ushers were walking around with boxes of Kleenex for those who got overwhelmed with the “spirit.”
Jonathan McReynolds is only 34 years old, but a mixture of young and old people came out to see him perform. I got the impression, after watching the show, that his music is contemporary but with a traditional vibe.
Songs like “Emoji” were more contemporary and prompted him to say that he has “a creative way to worship.” While songs like “You’re One Good God” and “My God is Verified” were more reflective and traditional.
I’m unsure about the release date of Jonathan McReynolds’ new music but based on the response from the crowd at the live taping, it seems gospel fans will enjoy it.