Gospel train chugs along

A LIFE-CHANGING song, well-attended shows and a flurry of new releases kept the Jamaican gospel train chugging along in 2018. For Tommy Cowan, a leading figure in the movement, gospel continues to attract secular fans.

“The high point for gospel would have to be the impact of Wayne Marshall’s Glory to God which I believe outdid all songs released in Jamaica (last year); secular, gospel and any other genre you may think of,” Cowan told the Jamaica Observer.

Marshall’s heartfelt song, released in May, was played on radio and at dances. It is easily the biggest success for the singer who established himself as a dancehall act and member of the Marley family’s Ghetto Youths International label.

Cutting his Rastafarian locks helped Marshall market Glory to God, and earned him spots on events like Reggae Sumfest and the Independence Grand Gala.

Cowan pointed to singer Kevin Downswell’s Realignment Tour of Jamaica as another strong area for gospel. The artiste’s fourth album, Realignment: The Live Encounter, was released by Tuff Gong International in June.

Junior Tucker; Carlene Davis, Cowan’s wife; and Marion Hall also released new albums last year.

Live events such as Unity In The City, Jamaica Fun In The Son and Hi-pro Denbigh Extravaganza attracted strong turnouts.

“Jamaica Fun In The

Son did well with good crowd support and excellent execution. Marion Hall’s appearance, Sara Conner and Donnie Mcclurkin’s preaching brought about a refreshing addition to the offerings,” said Cowan.

The veteran impresario played key roles in Jamaica Fun In The Son which took place in July at National Heroes Park in Kingston, and Denbigh Extravaganza which was held in Clarendon in August during the annual Denbigh Agricultural Show.