A young African-American family.
Photo via mcg.metrocreativeconnection.com
What gesture could resonate with the bearer of life as more than an afterthought for a fun-filled outing for the celebration of Mother’s Day?
Breakfast in bed might be nice.
Bouquets are just as enticing.
Brunch, lunch, and dinner away from the kitchen could also satiate appetites and spirits.
However, when it comes down to pleasing mothers, any act of kindness often finds favor.
Perhaps that’s why, for 43 years, the McDonald’s Gospelfest has appeased families by combining the intentions of expression with the provisions of purpose.
Throughout the decades, by their presence, Christians of all faiths and persuasions (including Jews for Jesus) agree that a day off from regular routine could prove the nicest gift of all.
It is safe to say the theory successfully entices fulfillment of entertainment, food, camaraderie, a family outing, and an affordable treat.
After all, the gospel is regarded as good news.
Therefore, all wrapped in one package, this year’s delights include music from the Clark Sisters, LeAndria Johnson, Jennifer Holiday, and choruses of confection.
Once again, a promise of joyous, uplifting, and spiritual performances guarantees engagement that any mother would appreciate.
As a matter of fact, the attraction provides an irresistible, universally acclaimed, all-inclusive presentation that any relative could relate to.
Producer/director A. Curtis Farrow stakes much of the credit for its enduring longevity.
Under his 27-year direction, various itinerations have represented a multiplicity of music forms that comprise the gospel.
Farrow often boasts about the pride he takes in touring the United States.
And the fact that audiences overseas in Germany, Japan, Korea, and Canada have also enjoyed the songs of praise, hope, and joy does not factor into humility.
Throughout his stewardship, traditional, contemporary, and Christian gospel music have been recognized with 17 Emmy nominations.
Add to that his inclusion of a 2000-member mass choir at Madison Square Garden in 2017 and a 5,000 voice chorus at Nassau Coliseum the following year; bragging rights are due.
Another staging is billed for Mother’s Day, at 6:30 p.m.
Plan ahead.
Give mom her due, give her the gift of the good news.
“Life is just for living.” Smith is gone at 80
Jamaican baritone Glenroy Anthony Michael Angelo Smith, popularly known as Ernie, is now an ancestor.
The singer died on April 16 in Miami, Florida, at age 80.
According to his wife, Claudette Bailey-Smith, the singer succumbed five days after surgery he needed to correct discomfort from intestinal complications.
She said he had been facing health challenges since June of last year.
His condition seemed to deteriorate from then on.
Throughout his career, he exuded a leisurely, casual persona that attracted fans and listeners who tuned out from politics or other negative commentary.
Adults found his style and lyrics appealing, and children clamored for his personality and gentleness.
A legion of fans will recall his storytelling renditions of the humorous “Duppy Gunman,” the sound of raindrops on the roof titled “Pitta Patta,” the glorification of the Lord in “All for Jesus,” and his trademark hit “Life is just for living.”
The song was a commercial reportedly made to promote Red Stripe Beer.
As luck would have it, a 70’s melody emerged.
Needless to say, Ernie remained a Jamaican troubadour whose songs delivered uppers to remedy any downer’s despair.
The government awarded Smith the Badge of Honor for Meritorious Service in the field of music.
Catch you on the Inside!