The public is invited to an afternoon of spiritual rejuvenation through gospel music at this year’s Praise in the Park on the Canal hosted by Radio One Indianapolis. Hundreds of Hoosiers will be able to enjoy up and coming and top-rated gospel artists in a peaceful and engaging environment on July 26 from 11 a.m. till 3 p.m. near Buggs Temple on 11th Street between Martin Luther King Jr. and Senate Streets. The event is free.
The lineup of artists is sure to influence raised hands and stomping feet as the canal is lavished with soulful sounds. Isaac Carree, who hit the gospel charts on the Top 10 lists, headlines the star-studded event.
Praise in the Park’s roots were planted in 2005 in the parking lot of Radio One.
“It was an event where people could come down the Friday morning of Expo and enjoy gospel,” said Amos Brown, air personality and host of “Afternoons with Amos” on WTLC-AM (1310) The Light. “Last year we moved it to the Saturday after Expo because it was conflicting with Expo’s events.”
The event has seen several locations in the past but now holds ground on the canal near Buggs Temple.
Brown said more than 20 years ago when the city rebuilt the canal they created an amphitheater that hadn’t been used for many entertainment purposes.
“When we tried to start it on a Friday morning people would ask why did we have this music playing at 6 a.m. and we said there is no better music to wake up to,” Brown said.
Organizers of the gospel celebration say Praise in the Park is a way for WTLC-AM (1310) and its sponsors Metro PCS and the Indianapolis Neighborhood Housing Partnership to give back to the community.
Although the event is free, organizers encourage attendees to bring a new toy for the Forest Manor Multi-Service Center Christmas in July Campaign.
Here is the lineup and more information on each artist:
Isaac Carree
As an Atlanta-based singer, songwriter, producer and actor, Isaac Carree entered the music industry more than 20 years ago as a soloist with John P. Kee & New Life Community Choir. Today he is promoting his sophomore solo album titled “RESET.” The album’s single “Clean This House” entered the gospel radio charts at No. 28 before gracing the Top 10 list.
Chanel of Trin-i-tee 5:7
This Grammy-nominated artist has had her fair share of opportunities during her involvement as a duo with Trin-i-tee 5:7. The now solo artist has shared her music with the world through her album “Trin-i-tee 5:7 According to Chanel.” The album is full of gospel, retro 80s and eclectic sounds. Her single “Repay” is now playing on gospel radio.
Danetra Moore
As a finalist on BET’s “Sunday Best,” Danetra Moore was able to showcase her talent and love for gospel music. Now signed with Tyscot Music and Entertainment, Moore is preparing for her first album release in September titled “Light in the Dark.” Read the Recorder’s exclusive interview with Moore in the Religion section on page B1.
Damon Little
Since the age of five Damon Little has lifted his voice in praise. In 2000 he signed with Worldwide Gospel and released his first album “You Can’t Straddle the Fence” that remained on the Top 10 gospel charts for 46 weeks. The Baltimore native recently released his new single, “Let It Be” followed by his new album, entitled, “Soul of Gospel.”
Ethan Kent
Although a newcomer to the music industry, Ethan Kent has been heavily involved in the church as a worship leader and musician trainer. His debut radio single, “My Hope Is In Glory” jumped on the Gospel Billboard charts when he released his first album “Work in Progress.”
Schawayna Raie
Born and raised in Indianapolis, Schawayna Raie began singing in her church’s choir at the age of seven. Upon graduation from IUPUI, she sang and discovered her own sound with local group, Voices of Judah. In 2010 she released her first project “Through It All” followed by “No More Hiding” and “Remembering Christmas,” the latter two released in 2013.
