Roslyn King conducts the African American Community Choir at the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Breakfast at The Commons in downtown Columbus on Monday.
Mike Wolanin | Republic
Keyboardist and vocalist Danny Green believes that when the faith-based African American Community Choir sings, it moves listeners more than sweet harmonies. He feels that God moves in sound to move the heart.
“In fact, he believes it allows music to go straight into your soul,” said Green.
Perhaps that mystique unfolded at the 26th Annual Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Breakfast at The Commons on Monday. Depending on the performance, his group of 10 to 15 earned a standing ovation after his two spirited songs, “Every Praise” and “Right On, King Jesus.”
While attendees made their way through the breakfast-serving lines, Green and sister Terry Green-Rodi performed a soft duet version of the classic “We Shall Overcome.”
Some of the estimated 350 crowd in downtown Columbus applauded to the beat, which Green agreed was a swaying black gospel vibe by the choir.
“But you can change that now,” he said.
The group can play music from artists and acts such as Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music, Donnie McClurkin and Hillsong. The local African American Pastors’ Union, which organized the breakfast, encouraged Roslyn King to organize a choir for the event. She and her assistant Green, along with Roddy, recruited singers from at least her six churches in Columbus, North Her Vernon, Franklin, and Greenwood.
They had four rehearsal hours before the popular gathering.
“The sound of the choir and how it travels[to people]is God’s blessing,” said King. “It must depend on what you do. If he does not bless it, there is no power or anointing there.”
She understands why even non-believers can be moved by such fun and energetic songs.
“That’s because everyone is a spiritual being, no matter what they say,” said King. Whether people believe it or not, there’s a connection with him.”
In addition, as she sees, there is another factor involved.
“People can see how it makes us feel[as singers],” King said. You have to understand that you can’t.”
Ideally, King would like to put together a choir for other presentations, such as local churches or special events. He speaks passionately about the talents and work of Green and Roddy. In fact, King pointed out that her one of the reasons for the harmony of the group as a whole could be her general longevity.
She said many of the members sang together on Calvary for years before moving on and then attending churches in other areas. I admit that I have very little time to sing.
“But,” she said with a laugh, “I sing in the car.”
invite a choir
The African American Community Choir can sing at your church or event. Contact Rosslyn King for more information. [email protected] Or by Danny Green [email protected]
