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Retrospective 2024: Top Gospel Music Stories in the DMV

As 2024 comes to a close, the DMV gospel community has much to celebrate. This year was marked by extraordinary musical achievements, heartfelt tributes, and powerful moments of unity that showcased the spirit of faith and fellowship. From benefit concerts that rallied support for a beloved artist to a landmark anniversary and groundbreaking initiatives, the gospel scene in the DMV continues to inspire and uplift.

Join Positively Gospel as we take a look back at some of the memorable gospel events of the year—moments that reminded us of the power of music to heal, unite, and celebrate the divine.

Uniting in Song: Benefit Concert for Gospel Mainstay Ryan Vincent Ford Set for April – Positivelygospel The DMV gospel community recently rallied around one of its beloved members, Ryan Vincent Ford, during an unexpected health crisis. Known for his powerful voice and strong faith, Ford found himself in need of support. Rising to the occasion, the DMV gospel community came together for a heartfelt benefit concert, blending prayer and action to help offset his medical expenses. As Ryan continues his journey toward healing, prayers and additional support, remain welcome and deeply appreciated.

A DMV Salute To Our Funeral Home Professionals Set for August – Positivelygospel In a unique and heartfelt gesture, Stellar Award winner Phillip Carter hosted a special celebration honoring funeral home professionals. These often-overlooked heroes were recognized for their tireless efforts, particularly during the challenges of the pandemic. The event included a moving service and a reception, providing well-deserved appreciation for their ongoing contributions to the community.

DMV Musician and Singers Fellowship Rolls Out 2024 Honorees – Positivelygospel Artists united at the sold-out DMV Musicians and Singers Fellowship to honor those whose contributions have shaped gospel music and uplifted the community. The evening was an electrifying celebration, brimming with musical performances that paid tribute to the enduring impact of these gospel trailblazers.

Mike McCoy and Voices United: Celebrating 30 Years of Excellence This year marked the 30th anniversary of Mike McCoy and Voices United, an ensemble renowned for its longevity and extraordinary talent. Over the years, the group has nurtured some of gospel’s most dynamic voices, including Robert E. Person, Jeremiah Hicks, and Ronnette Harrison-Rollins to name a few. Their enduring impact was truly showcased by their captivating performance at last year’s Richard Smallwood birthday celebration, a moment that underscored their vocal mastery and staying power.

Phillip Carter: A Visionary Leader in Gospel Music Phillip Carter continues to shine as a trailblazer and beacon of hope in the gospel community. Beyond his remarkable singing career, his morning devotions, Sunday Hymn Praise, and more, Carter has championed impactful initiatives through his Hymns Family Ministry, making significant contributions to transformative efforts in Uganda. As the year came to a close, Carter and his wife Stephanie reflected on the ministry’s accomplishments, offering an inspiring glimpse into their mission-driven work.

Gospel Industry Inside Jerome Bell tapped as 2025 Gospel Music Hall of Fame Inductee – Positivelygospel Known for his profound influence on the gospel music landscape, Bell’s contributions as a visionary leader, producer, and advocate for gospel artists have earned him this prestigious recognition.

That’s a wrap for 2024. We can’t wait to see what DMV gospel has in store for 2025!

Sarah Hearn
the authorSarah Hearn
Sarah Hearn is Editor-in-Chief of PositivelyGospel.com, founded in 2011. The site was recently named among Feedspot's Top Gospel and Christian Music Websites. Sarah is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists and the Gospel Music Association.

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