Call them The Browns. Call them the First Couple of Gospel Entertainment.
David and Tamela Mann could also be called “adopted residents” of Indianapolis, because the acting, singing and gospel production duo always enjoy their visits to the Circle City.
“They really know how to make people feel welcome,” David Mann said of Indy residents, before jokingly adding, “They also have some of the best parties here.”
David and Tamela Mann are best known for appearing together in popular Tyler Perry productions such as the “Madea” film series, “Diary of a Mad Black Woman” and “Meet The Browns.”
They sat down with the Recorder as their Mann’s World Family Tour made a stop in Indianapolis during a recent weekend. Taking place at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, the appearance included Tamela Mann, a Grammy Award winner known for chart-topping gospel songs such as “Take Me To the King,” along with David’s contagious comedy routine. Two of their children, David Jr. and Tia, have also been involved in their current production.
Many viewers are familiar with the Manns through their work on film and television. However, they are now sharing their talents in more live shows across the country as part of the tour.
“You can expect the unexpected with this tour,” Tamela said. “It’s not just comedy; it’s not just a concert. It’s an experience for the entire family that has something for everyone.”
Since making their acting debut as the father and daughter duo of Deacon Leroy and Cora Brown, the Manns have been recognized for their down-to-earth, hilarious style of comedy.
However, in an industry notorious for well-publicized divorces, they have also represented the concept of a harmonious and productive marriage. Although they have each enjoyed individual success, David and Tamela have done most of their work together.
“We are always together,” David said. “For this tour we wanted to get the whole family together to encourage other families to be together and to work together.”
He was quick to add that marriage has not been a perfect journey for him and Tamela.
“We’re a work in progress,” David said. “We just figured out how to make it work for us.”
For Tamela, it all comes down to a couple meeting each other’s needs. That, she believes, is the practical key to a stable marriage.
“We have learned how to try to ‘out-do’ doing things for each other,” she said. “That is one way the needs of both people can be met.”
David and Tamela say another helpful ingredient of a happy marriage is staying in love and sustaining the kind of excitement couples have when they first meet each other.
“In the beginning you’re hyped, you’re in love and you’re excited,” David said. “You have to keep that fire burning throughout the marriage.”
During most of their careers, the Manns have worked with powerhouse producer Tyler Perry. They are very appreciative of that experience, but jokingly noted that it has included the same factors found on most jobs.
“It was like it would be for every other boss. Sometimes the boss (Perry) would come in and go off,” Tamela joked. “But it was fun, and I had a great time with it.”
Although they enjoy instant recognition among fans of entertainment with a gospel message and style, David and Tamela have paid their dues over two decades, beginning with popular gospel artist Kirk Franklin’s group, The Family, during the 1990s.
“Some people look at us and say it was an overnight success. No, we put in the work,” David said, as Tamela voiced her agreement.
They both offered encouragement to those who have been working hard to achieve success in acting, music, comedy and, of course, ministry.
“Never give up on your dreams,” Tamela said.
“If God has given you the vision and the dream, he will make it come to pass,” David added. “Put in the work and it will pay off.”
