As promised, over the next few days, I’m recapping my gospel-filled weekend in NYC.  For today, let’s chat about the Summer Stage gospel concert at Central Park.

It’s an annual event in NYC’s huuuge Central Park.  I tend to enjoy outdoor concerts cuz I like the feeling of hearing the music from far away, then walking up closer and being the middle of all that energy.

And though it was really raining like crazy for a time, this concert didn’t disappoint.  The audience clearly had a great time and the music was on point.  Ruben Studdard opened the show with several songs, including some popular Luther Vandross tunes.  It wasn’t exactly gospel, but he was singing ’em and doing a good job.

Byron Cage took to the stage next.  His set included some of his classics, but also showcased a new single from his upcoming project.  Dance-able and fun… good job and I’m lookin’ forward to the album!

Bishop Hezekiah Walker also made a cameo appearance on stage.  It’s always great to see him!

We had to leave for the McDonald’s GospelFest once Smokie Norful started his set, so I missed some of him (though what I DID hear was incredible!).   And the tweets from fellow blogger Torrence Glenn of BET.com suggested that Tye Tribbett was energetic and dynamic, as usual!

Some pics for ya (scroll over each one for captions):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And, of course, a special word to all of you guys from Melinda Watts: