About Me
Indianapolis, Indiana native, Richard O. Jackson captivates audiences with his dynamic baritone vocals. Choir director, mentor, noted songwriter Anderson T. Dailey, (who has published material in the Baptist Hymnal), first recognized Richard’s musical gift while Richard attended Crispus Attucks High School. There he took the lead in various musical theatre productions before matriculation to Indiana University (Bloomington) to study voice. Richard’s vocal gift and dramatic talents were honed through participation in the IU Singing Hoosiers, numerous dramatic roles under the direction of Dr. Winona Fletcher, and as a founding member of the IU Soul Revue. All afforded Jackson the opportunity to travel extensively throughout the continental United States as well as abroad. After graduating from Indiana University (Bloomington), Richard was intent on making music his career. He relocated to Honolulu, Hawaii and became a member of the R&B group, Paramour (By Way of Love). Becoming the first R&B group to record in Hawaii, Paramour toured throughout Japan, Taiwan, The Philippines, Canada, and South Korea and throughout the Hawaiian Island, sharing the stage with such notable artists as: Dionne Warwick, Chic, Rufus featuring Chaka Khan, Lionel Ritchie and the Commodores, Parliament Funkalelic, and Billy Preston and Marvin Gaye. Upon Jackson’s return to Indianapolis, he had a life-changing experience. He met his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and felt the calling no longer to entertain the world, but to use his gifts to glorify God and to help point others toward the Savior. Richard’s musical career evolved into a music ministry that includes song writing, producing, as well as ministering in song. For several years he served as a gospel announcer on WPZZ-Joy 96 FM in Indianapolis. Additionally, he portrayed the disciple, James, in theatrical production “Upon this Rock†and has ministered as guest M.C. at countless gospel concerts and programs. Richard continues to sing at church services, weddings, family reunions and anywhere that the Lord opens a door. He serves as the Music Coordinator a as an Elder in his church. Professionally, Jackson is an educator, coach, and mentor in the Indianapolis Public Schools. He is a husband and the father of the adult children. He humbly acknowledges that all that he has experienced is because of God’s goodness and His grace. Richard is thankful that God has chosen him as one of his vessels.
