If you know me, you probably know that this is my favorite gospel song ever, in the history of any and every gospel song ever written or recorded.  This is it.  It’s “Thank You,” by Walter Hawkins, featuring Yvette Flunder on lead.

Part 1:

Part 2:

This song holds a special place in my heart– at my old church, I sang on the worship team.  The pastor had us sing this song practically every Sunday, having us repeat the vamp for so long that I felt like my vocal cords were gonna pop onto the pulpit. Sorry for the visual– just need you to understand how high it is.

In any case, “Prayer Away” is from Walter Hawkins’ last recorded album, Song From In Heart (released in 2005).  This particular performance is from an episode of Bobby Jones Gospel.

Whatd’ya think???

Word has it that the arrangements for the homegoing services of Bishop Walter Hawkins are taking shape. Dates, times and locations have been made available on the official website of his church, the Love Center:

Tuesday, July 20, 2010 at 7:00pm – MUSICAL

Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at 11:00am – HOMEGOING SERVICE
***requesting that all attendees wear the color CREAM***

Both services will be held at:
Paramount Theatre
2025 Broadway
Oakland, CA 94612-2303
(510) 465-6400

Hotel Info:
Hilton Oakland Airport
1 Hegenberger Road
Oakland, CA 94621
(510) 635-5000
***Must Use “Love Center Ministries, Inc” Code to obtain $85/night rate***

Visit Love Center’s website for updates.

That’s it, folks. If you’re going, get your plane tickets and hotel rooms THIS INSTANT.

Anyone planning to attend???

I got home last night and had myself a good ol’ time listening to all of my Walter Hawkins albums… I hit ALL the Love Alive albums (yep– all five of ‘em), before revisiting albums like Jesus Christ Is The Way and others.  And it dawned on me– y’all might not have this music, huh?

So, for a limited time, I’m giving you the Walter Hawkins PunditPlayer to hear some of my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE songs of his from the past 40+ years.  It’s a total of 30 tracks!

I tried to flow with ‘em, but I couldn’t load ‘em all. You want more than 30, go’n and buy it (you probably should, anyway)!

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN!!!

Suffice it to say, you’ve not seen a playlist like this on GospelPundit.com, and you may not ever again.  If you’re a fanatic like me, let’s walk down memory lane.  If you’re learning more about him since his passing, listen… and you’ll understand who he is and how incredible he has been.

From my heart to yours, in celebration of the incomparable Walter Hawkins.  Enjoy!

The first vid is just audio… the second is video of concert footage with a beautiful beautiful reprise.

I love ya, Bishop Walter Hawkins.  Enjoy your new Heavenly digs… and we’ll see you up there soon.

“Be Grateful,” led by Lynette Hawkins-Stephens.

Classic song with a hauntingly beautiful melody.

CLASSIC. I miss Walter already.