I don’t know where to begin.
I don’t think anyone will ever dispute the fact that Thomas Whitfield was one of the most influential gospel artists to ever live. Nicknamed “The Maestro,” the Detroit-based artist was instrumental (pun intended) in shaping the face of contemporary gospel music. He was an amazing vocalist, a prolific songwriter, an innovative arranger, an incredible pianist, and an awesome producer.
In addition to serving as the musical director for Aretha Franklin’s gospel masterpiece, Amazing Grace, Thomas Whitfield produced Vanessa Bell Armstrong’s debut album, Peace Be Still, introduced the world to Yolanda Adams, and is credited as a mentor to Fred Hammond and Donald Lawrence, among countless others. Along with his choir, The Whitfield Company, he left an incredibly rich legacy of music in the gospel industry.
But his sudden death in 1992, at the young age of 38, also left a deep void. He suffered a heart attack while eating at a Detroit restaurant after choir rehearsal one night. The efforts of several choir members to resuscitate him were unsuccessful and he was declared dead by the time he arrived at the hospital. At the time of his death, he was engaged to marry Gwen Morton (a lead vocalist in The Whitfield Company and sister of Bishop Paul Morton). Several tribute albums and “greatest hits” projects have been released since his death, and he has been honored posthumously with the 1999 James Cleveland Award at the Stellar Awards.
I can’t possibly list all of his songs, but some of his most famous are “Hallelujah Anyhow,” “We Need a Word from the Lord,” and “Precious Jesus.” My personal favorites are those, plus ”Walk In The Light,” “Wrapped Up, Tied Up, Tangled Up,” ”Hold Me,” “Soon As I Get Home,” “The Lord Is Blessing Me,” and “Lift Those Hands and Bless Him.” And I guess I should stop there. LoL
I don’t believe I have the words to describe what I feel about Thomas Whitfield and his music ministry. That annoys me, but it doesn’t surprise me. His music kinda transcends the overwhelming majority of gospel music currently out there. People don’t write like that, sing like that, arrange like that, MINISTER like that anymore… (“CHALLunge!”). Every time I study him more, I’m even more amazed by his gift. He was soooooo ahead of his time (chords and musical ideas like that weren’t “supposed” to be in the 80′s!), yet he managed to create ageless music that is JUST as phenomenal, relevant and refreshing today as it was when it was first released. I regret that I wasn’t grown enough to appreciate his music while he was alive. One thing’s for sure, though, it’s not too late for ANY of us to appreciate him now.
I went back and forth on which song to put in here. It was gonna be “Walk In The Light,” but you’ll have to Google that one on your own. I decided to stick with the one that sends SHIVERS down my spine from the very first piano note through the end of the hauntingly beautiful words “all I need”… and the rich lead vocal from Larry Edwards…. oh my goodness!!! “Wrapped Up, Tied Up, Tangled Up”:
What’s your favorite Thomas Whitfield song? Got any memories about him or his music? Talk to me.
I really appreciate your write up on Thomas Whitfield. He was truly ahead of his time. His music should never be forgotten. It's hard to pick just one as a favorite because I really do love All his work. But if I had to pick one for now it would be "Think of His goodness" from the album "And they sang a hymn".
Reading this reminded me of what I think is my all-time sentimental favorite: "I Will See You In The Morning" from his solo album "Hold Me". I don't think it's available on CD, but if anyone finds it let me know. It's one of the songs to which my sister introduced me in the last years of her life. Whenever I hear it, it reminds me of that promise...someday...
Of Course..... He's Whitfield! Good Ole Cousin Thomas.... We used to get it in at family reunions. I'll sure miss those days!
I just found this site and i'm impressed in what i've seen so far. I'm just discovering Thomas Whitfield honestly. I have heard of them in the past but never knew any of his music. In the past year or so, I have discovered him on Youtube and Amazon and now i'm a lifelong fan. This guy was so far ahead of his time. I wonder where music would be if he was still around.... I'm with the OP... I'd have a hard time picking between Walk in the Light, Tied up (Tangled Up), and my personal favorite Never Alone. I think you made a good choice with Tied Up, Tangled Up.
My favorite whitfield song is " What A fellowship" Love the arrangment. Awesome Choir
@ EJ Yea man, you pretty much listed all the good ones for me. I'll add "I'm Encouraged" and "Up ABove My Head, I Hear Music" just for the sake of it. lol
I know i'm a little late to post this. However, Thomas Whitfield's music, lyrics and arrangements are by far anointed and creative. I Pastor a church. My desire is to allow his music to create the spirit of worship in our church. He has the right blend of the sacred and contemporary gospel music. Some of the younger gospel artist should study Whitfield to understand the significance of the genre. the Maestro must be mentioned with Crouch and Hawkins. These three artist are the foundation of the contemporary gospel movement. One can only imagine the music he would have put forth if he lived longer. By the way Crouch and Hawkins have roots in the Church of God in Christ. (I had to throw that in) COGIC's contribution to gospel music is another conversation. God Bless
@Nicole, wonderful!! One of my favorites is "Healing Hands" sung by Sandra Hudson on "...And They Sang a Hymn..." Great post.
Thank for the write up. Thomas Whitfield was my favorite......I'm disappointed that I can not find the orginal album "Hold Me" on CD. I'll keep on looking. God bless.
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