Clinton Hill Community Action and NJPAC South Ward ArtsXChange presented South Ward Celebration Of Gospel

(NEWARK, NJ) — On June 21, 2024, in honor of Black Music Month, Clinton Hill Community Action (CHCA) and NJPAC South Ward ArtsXChange hosted the South Ward Celebration of Gospel, an immersive gospel celebration that brought music lovers and community members together to celebrate the rich heritage of gospel music in Newark and its influence on the African American community.

The event took place on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at Zion Hill Baptist Church and featured captivating performances by gospel artists from the local community. Attendees were treated to stirring music, powerful messages, praise through liturgical dance, and a sense of unity and spiritual uplift.

Major highlights of the event included a section of the Brown’s Chapel FWB Church Mass Choir singing a cappella in the traditional style of hymns in general time, and a review of Newark’s gospel history by Dr. Albert Lewis (founder of Gospel Music Month, originally a week-long event and declared a month by the State of New Jersey), who then received a CHCA proclamation for his many years of service as a gospel music historian in the South Ward and Newark. Junius Williams, Esq. commented on how Newark greats such as the Drinkard family (Cissy Houston and Dionne Warwick) have shaped gospel music in Newark, and how the band featured musicians from the South Ward on drums, guitar, organ and keyboard. Newark’s talent was on full display with performances by Newark residents Andre’ Witcher – singer of the legendary remake of “You are my friend” with Kenny Bobien, Seychelle Elise – recording artist, Gail Campbell – recording artist, Vaughn Smith, Clinteeyah Brooks and Shakur Gibson – residents and CHCA staff. Also performing were Ian Johnson, the evening’s musical director and Minister of Music of Zion Hill Baptist Church, the Zion Hill Baptist Church Worship Team and the Camp Dance Ministry.

The event was made possible through the partnership between Clinton Hill Community Action and NJPAC’s ArtsXChange.

“We were thrilled to see the community come together during Black Music Month to celebrate the power of gospel music,” said Khaatim Sherrer El, executive director of Clinton Hill Community Action. “The event was a true testament to how music can bring people together and lift spirits.”

Over 100 residents and art lovers were captivated by the strong connection between gospel music and the African American community. People clapped, waved and stood as the music filled them with joy and jubilation while gospel songs painted pictures of African American history.

Gospel music comes from the soul and is part of us. “Gospel music is our heritage, our black history. The South Ward Celebration of Gospel beautifully showcased how every form of gospel music tells our rich history in Newark and around the world,” said Rhenotha Whitaker, assistant director of Clinton Hill Community Action. “We wanted not just a concert, but an experience that would be memorable and leave you wanting more.”

Looking ahead, CHCA is committed to continuing to celebrate and honor the contributions of African American musicians and artists within the community through ArtsXChange events. Stay tuned for future events and initiatives that will continue to center the power of the arts as transformative vehicles of change.

ArtsXchange is an ongoing collaboration. The next ArtsXchange event, “Spotlight on Us,” will be held on July 16, 2024 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Mildred Helms Park in Newark, NJ. Light refreshments will be served. This event is free and open to the public. Register Here.

Clinton Hill Community Action (CHCA) is a nonprofit community development organization engaging residents and partners to revitalize the Clinton Hill neighborhood in Newark’s South Ward. We believe this work must be led by residents, along with partners who understand the central role residents play in identifying challenges, finding solutions that best meet their hopes and aspirations, and working together to ensure sustainable progress. CHCA supports this community action and advocacy with a focus on quality, affordable housing, food security, economic empowerment, and environmental justice. Since their founding in 2019, they have worked to build trust in the community and engage residents to address long-standing issues.