Get Your Own! | View Slideshow
Layout by CoolChaserOver the years gospel music, as we know it, has transformed into more than just singing. It has become a tool in the everyday struggle to live the life that we sing about. For 28 years, the Brown Singers have traveled the world spreading the good news of Jesus. It all started in 1977, when a group of young people, Vanessa Brown Knowles, Dolly Starks Mohn, Beverly Ray King, Rosemary Starks Mathis, and Elizabeth Starks Cleveland lead by Mrs. Willie Mae Richmond attended the National Quartet Convention, where they sang as a youth choir. When they returned home, they were asked by the late Rev. J.L. Clark, their pastor at that time, to render a song. Afterwards, they sang so good he suggested that they continue on as the Brown Singers. That was the beginning of a life long ministry. The young ladies, ranging in age from 12 to 14, began appearing on programs at several churches in the Memphis and surrounding areas. After every program more and more people expressed how amazed they were by the sincerity of these girls at such a young age. In 1987, God gave Vanessa a song called Trying to live the right life for Jesus, inspired by the recent struggles that the girls had faced, enabling them to record their very first single. A few years later they were joined by the late Shelia Holt and the late Darlene Mackey. Shortly after they became members, they began to work on their album entitled Jesus Is Good News, featuring such songs as Jesus Is on the Main Line, Sweet Jesus, God Kept His Arms Around Me and many more. Jesus on the main line became an instant hit not only on the airways, but was also a household favorite. This album exposed the Brown Singers to a broader spectrum of listeners. As they traveled across the country, they transformed the tradition of quartet with there sharp movements and tight harmony. Flowing in the spirit, they watched as the presence of God began to move. Around that time, Alescia Lisa Knowles, who was only nine years old, began singing in the background. People were in intrigued to see a little girl with such a big voice. After just three years, she stepped out front and took over as the lead singer. The group then recorded the Live in Memphis, which featured most of the same hits from the previous album but with Lisa as lead. The Live in Memphis was a new phase for the group. With their teenage lead singer, their fresh new sound began to reach the young and the old. The ministry began to grow stronger and stronger. Then came a distinct voice, known for her beautiful tone as the top singer, Jackienna Richmond. In 2003, the Brown Singers released their current album, Generations: You Can Make It. A lot of people are surprised to find out that there are 3 generations in the group. First theres the grandmother, Willie Mae Richmond, mother Vanessa Knowles and granddaughter AlesciaLisa Knowles. The inspiration for this project came from trials and tribulations that we faced on the road. We also suffered the lost of two prominent members. However we managed to stay strong and trust God. Today, we have two new members Tangela Walker and Sierra Ward. We are grateful for this opportunity to share our ministry with you. So put on your Shouting Shoes with us as we journey to Zion.
Get Your Own Voice Player
