Some concerts do more than entertain. Instead, they take you back down memory lane. That’s how it was on Saturday, October 18, as Mike McCoy and Voices United took the stage for their Retro Concert II at Greater St. John Cathedral in Upper Marlboro, MD. Emceed by Stephen Hurd, the concert was a musical celebration that featured gospel hits from the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. The result was an unforgettable night of nostalgia, joy, and praise.
The setlist was a journey through the catalogs of Milton Brunson, Robert Fryson, L.A. Mass Choir, Walter Hawkins, and many more. A highlight of the evening was Helen Holmes singing “God Is.” No choir backing, just Helen singing the song in the powerful way that only she could. Mike McCoy stated that she is often called “Hurricane.” That was very evident with her performance as she blew in and tore strongholds down with her delivery.
A poignant part of the evening was when Bishop Marvin McCoy came up and sang the song he penned, “For the Rest of My Life.” Originally denied the credit he deserved for his authorship, the song has experienced a resurgence through Vincent Bohanan, and the proper credit was ascribed.
Mike McCoy and Voices United performed with excellence, high energy, and visible joy. The chemistry between the singers and the band was seamless, with each song leading the audience deeper into a spiritual rich music experience.
The sanctuary was full of singers and musicians. Spotted in the audience were Roderick Giles, Jared Sawyers, and Brian Spriggs.
The Retro concert took a trip back in time, serving as a reminder of gospel’s origins and its enduring significance. This was so much more than a performance. It was a musical accomplishment that was well executed and will be long remembered.
