Every year, tens of thousands of people gather in Indianapolis to prepare for Circle City Classic’s weekend of events.
However, many of them don’t wait until the Saturday evening game to have fun – they celebrate the night before with activities such as the Friday Nite Cabaret and the Comedy Jam.
The Joyful Sound Productions Gospel Music Explosion, sometimes called the Classic Gospel Music Explosion, has become a very popular “pre-game” event. For 18, years the concert has presented some of the greatest names in gospel music, showcasing talented singers and musicians in the Indianapolis Christian community.
This year’s event will include national recording artists Vicki Winansœ and quartet singer Keith “Wonderboy” Johnson. They will be joined by rising favorites such as Nue Breed, known for his exciting brand of gospel R&B/hip-hop, the One Voice Choir, vocal group Joshua, teen saxophone prodigy Bryan Thompson and Roshonda Harden & Queen Victoria.
Also appearing will be special guests embracing a variety of artistic styles, including comedian Corie Johnson, the poetry team Hypnotiq, LFJ (Living for Jesus) Mime Team, Angels of Blessings Dance Ministry and the Porter Percussion Drum Line.
“This is definitely the most diverse Gospel Explosion we have had. We have something for everyone,” said Beverly Barney, who organizes the event and manages Joyful Sound Productions with her husband, Reginald.
Attracting thousands of attendees each year, the Gospel Music Explosion has been presented jointly by Circle City Classic and Joyful Sound Productions (JSP), a non-profit organization created by the Barneys, who also serve as co-pastors of It Is Well Ministries, a growing church on the city’s Eastside.
Joyful Sound Productions has programs designed to assist the hungry and homeless, care for children in need, and donate to scholarship funds.
In addition to promoting local artists, JSP has been dedicated to presenting excellent programs featuring high profile names such as Yolanda Adams, Deitrick Haddon, Shirley Caesar, Darryl Coley, Helen Baylor, Rodnie Bryant, LaShun Pace, Rizen, and Vickie Winans, as well as gospel comedians Jonathan Slocumb and Ron Baker.
“You don’t want to miss the caliber of artists we have this time,” said Reginald Barney. “Our goal has always been to show people that Jesus can change their lives, and they have grown to expect a standard of excellence from our productions.”
The Barneys appreciate, more than anything, being able to give back to the community through their success with the Gospel Music Explosion and provide another opportunity for uplifting music.
“What we enjoy the most is the fact that this event brings people across the community together, at least for one event, where they can have a good time under the anointing of the Lord,” Beverly said. “This is not a profit making venture – it’s ministry.”
Don’t miss it!
What: Joyful Sound Productions Gospel Explosion
When: Friday, Oct. 1, 7:30–10:30 p.m.
Where: Madame C.J. Walker Theatre, 617 Indiana Ave.
Admission: $15 in advance, $20 day of show and $12 for individuals in groups of 10. Tickets available at Walker Theatre, the Indianapolis Recorder or charge by phone at (317) 252-0158.
For more information: Visit www.joyfulsoundproductions.org.
