The Deniece Williams Show- BBC Radio 2: Wednesday 7 August
9.00pm (eight week series)
American soul and gospel singer Deniece Williams returns to the
airwaves with Britain's only national gospel music show.
Now
in its seventh series, the show introduces the audience to the rich
traditions of gospel that have inspired generations of artists.
Guests
working in a diverse range of musical genres from soul to hip hop
discuss the influence of gospel on their lives.
Woverhampton born singer/songwriter Beverley Knight talks about
the inspiration she got from singing in church as a child.
Woody Hill from hip hop band Dru Hill talks of his stuggle to accept
his musical success, while remaining true to his roots.
And one of the masters of gospel, Bishop Walter Hawkins, tells Deniece
how his musical career took off with the biggest crossover gospel
song ever, Oh Happy Day.
Insiders
and experts discuss the contemporary British gospel scene and artists
from Mary J Blige to Angie Stone provide personal thoughts on the
meaning of gospel music.
And,
of course, the series also carries the very best gospel and inspirational
music, showcasing new British talent as well as classic recordings.
Deniece
kicks off the series with an exclusive interview with one of the
USA's greatest gospel singers - Mavis Staples.
As part of the Staple Singers, Mavis has worked in music since the
1950s and collaborated with everyone from Prince to Curtis Mayfield.
