Heroes are those rare individuals who are admired for their achievements and qualities, showing great courage in the face of obstacles. Heroes have been noted throughout history, their impacts felt many years beyond their human existence. Noah had the faith to stretch out on God's word and build the ark. Moses led the people of Israel out of bondage. David had the courage to defeat the mighty Goliath. Solomon used his wisdom to reveal the truth, and job would not curse his Lord and die - even when others thought all hope was gone. In modern times, Marcus Garvey urged the multitudes to consider the richness of the African culture and homeland, while Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela steadfastly championed the causes of human dignity in this country and throughout the world. Heroes are divinely inspired, and their legacies are ones that reflect God's ability to step in and say "Peace Be Still" or that everything will be all right. Heroes rise above the burdens of day-to-day living and can confidently say "I don't feel noways tired" through God's ever present love and guidance. Reverend James Cleveland was a hero, developing this workshop from a handful of delegates to the multitudes which now attend it. His heroism permitted us to grow, to refine our musical talents, and to craft religious music in such a way that it compels lost souls to be saved. He touched each and every one of us in special ways, fostering our growth and inspiring us to see Gospel Music as a ministry. Through his efforts and leadership, Gospel Music has been woven into the fabric of American society. Like Noah, Rev. Cleveland overcame the flood of resistance from those who would have overwhelmed it and built this workshop as a safe place - an ark of salvation for those who love the Lord. Like Moses, he led us from storefront churches to the great concert halls - even when the waves and currents of contemporary opinion might have overcome our efforts. Like David, he was unafraid to fight for this organization and never apologized for "having church" in Cobo Hall or the Fox Theater, Madison Square Garden, The Convention Center or the many other auditoriums or meeting rooms in this country. Like Soloman, he was wise; making this organization a multifaceted, multi-dimensional enterprise, able to reach and motivate a diverse and truly ecumenical following. Like Job, he remained steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the works of the Lord, cultivating and promoting the doctrine that "everybody is somebody". Like Marcus Garvey, Martin Luther King, and Mandela, he found a richness in the African-American tradition and experiences, and the universal appeal that Gospel Music had to the nation and the world. And finally, just like Jesus, he has gone on up a little higher to be with his heavenly father. And while we might mourn his loss, we cherish the memories and the influence he had over our lives. Singers throughout this
country have benefited from Rev. Cleveland's talents as an accompanist, arranger, and
composer, relying on his ability to make his music very simple and easy to present and
sing. This, coupled with a drive and determination to get the best possible sound from a
musical group, are why we honor this great Christian hero. We are |
Reverend James Cleveland, as founder and president
of the Gospel Music Workshop of America, created the means by which an African-American
Cultural Tradition and art form will be nurtured, promoted and conveyed. His vision,
carried forth by fierce determination, and an abiding trust and reliance on God, has
changed the tapestry of the American music scene.