In past generations, listeners could expect to see either a traditional choir or a quartet vocal group when it came to gospel music performances.
However, much of today’s gospel music is diverse and designed to reach people both inside and outside the church community; at church and at the club.
That approach has suited Tye Tribbett just fine.
The Grammy nominated and Stellar Award winning gospel artist will make his Indianapolis appearance on Aug. 20 at the Madame Walker Theatre Center.
Tribbett’s concert is part of the Walker’s 2011 Cultural Arts Season, which is showcasing a variety of artists such as neo-soul singer Bilal and opera vocalist Angela Brown.
“Our goal with this series has been to offer something for everyone, and we’re excited to have one of the most amazing artists in the gospel arena come to our stage,” said Malina Jeffers, director of marketing and programs at the Walker.
Tribbett is best known for the exciting, high energy praise concerts he orchestrates with Greater Anointing his longtime group of vocalists and musicians. Fans have come to expect rousing singing, explosive dances and powerful testimonies.
The conventional wisdom in the gospel industry seems to be “if you go to a Tye Tribbett concert, you won’t be sitting down for long.”
When one examines Tribbett’s life, it is no surprise that he and his three siblings chose a career in music ministry. The Camden, N.J., native grew up in a church where music and ministry was constantly fused. His father worked as a pastor, and his mother served as both a minister and popular East Coast disc jockey.
Tribbett quickly developed his talents as a professional singer, keyboard player and songwriter, working with high profile artists such as Kim Burrell, Kirk Franklin and Justin Timberlake.
Tribbett and Greater Anointing made their recording debut with 2004’s “Life,” which took both the gospel community and popular radio by storm with its youthful urban vibe. Its singles, “No Way” and “Everything” reached the Top 10 of the gospel charts, and received airplay on some R&B stations.
The follow up album, 2006’s “Victory Live!” produced Tribbett’s best known hit, “Victory,” a dance song which earned Tribbett two Stellar Award wins and three Grammy nominations. His highly anticipated third project, “Stand Out” (2008) made its debut at No. 1 on the charts.
At the height of his career, however, Tribbett experienced a setback that could have derailed both his marriage and his ministry. In early 2010, he admitted to having an affair with a woman he and his wife, Shante, had counseled. Having witnessed how infidelity divided his parents, Tribbett thought it would never happen in his own marriage.
“When it happened, it was like ‘Whoa.’ God broke down my self-righteousness, my pride,” Tribbett said.
Dealing with hurt and anger, Shante became involved in her own affair, and the Tribbetts decided to take a break from their marriage. During this time, Tye virtually disappeared from the music scene, disbanded his group and began contemplating thoughts of suicide.
A couple of months into his sabbatical, Tribbett received inspiration from the Scripture Isaiah 43:18-19, which says, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing.”
With encouragement from family and spiritual reflection, Tribbett realigned his ministry and reunited with his wife to rebuild a marriage that he says is stronger than ever.
“I had allowed lust and pride to turn my attention away from God, but as soon as I turned back, he was there ready to receive me,” Tribbett said. “We can have assurance in knowing that God doesn’t hold grudges.”
Tribbett has embarked on a new beginning, and has launched a tour to promote his latest project, the aptly titled “Fresh.” The album includes songs written by Tribbett, as well as contributions from Isreal Houghton, Men of Standard and Group One Crew.
Tribbett said the project captures the hyped style of music his original fans embraced, but also keeps pace with recent changes in the industry and his life. He says he wants to grow his audience to a more mature worship experience.
“Whatever I was known for, I’m adding to it with this CD,” he said. “I want everyone to know they can have a fresh start, because there is a cleaning that takes place in worship. We can come out of any storm because of the love we experience in a real relationship with God.”
Get refreshed!
Who: Tye Tribbett in concert
When: Saturday, Aug. 20 at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m.
Where: Madame Walker Theatre, 617 Indiana Ave.
Tickets: $15 in advance and $20 at the door.
For more information: call the Walker box office at (317) 236-2099.
