As representatives of aStepFWD, Stephen Salalila and I had the amazing chance to attend The Kingdom Choir‘s Stand By Me Tour on Friday 10th May, 2019 in a place that is widely considered as one of the world’s best concert halls, the Birmingham Symphony Hall. With over 1,600 people in the audience, the room was packed with excitement in this stunning venue.
The evening started with singer Philippa Hanna and her husband on stage, and the audience soon joined in with her ‘acoustic in the style of country music’ inspired by the tunes of Nashville, Tennessee. As she sang, she shared stories of her battles through anxiety, depression and her journey of finding the grace and love of Christ with boldness and strength. Philippa finished off with a strong declaration song ‘I Am Amazing’ from her 2011 album, “Out of the Blue”.
As The Kingdom Choir took over the stage, cheers and applause came forth before their beautiful voices filled the hall. Karen Gibson took the mic and we were told to expect old time classics, current and new songs throughout the evening. This included amazing rearrangements from the likes of Aretha Franklin, Jill Scott, John Legend, and more.
But what some of the audience may not have been aware of, is that The Kingdom Choir had brought along a University choir consisting of young people, which prior to this, Karen explained, is what she is passionate about; encouraging young people to sing. Stepping on stage was Nexus Gospel Choir from Nexus Institute of Creative Arts based in Coventry. They delivered a heart-felt performance of the medley that earned them a 2nd Runner-up position in the 2019 University Gospel Choir of the Year, before being joined by The Kingdom Choir to deliver their arrangement of “You’re the Voice” from their album “Stand By Me”. Through this delivery by both choirs the audience were able to experience a genuine sound of worship. Well done to all.
The Kingdom Choir carried on the evening with many amazing songs, as one would expect; a celebration of their diversity and unity and of Gods glory. But what came across even more than their voices was their heart. Their love and passion for what they do and who they sing to had an impact that went beyond any arrangement or harmony. It’s something real, a belief that the words they are singing are true. What I felt in that hall was absolute joy and hope, a fresh reminder of God’s amazing grace and my salvation. I’m sure many of the audience felt the same as over a thousand people stood to their feet to join in with singing and dancing throughout the evening. Never have I found myself in a show of such caliber where that was the case. I am so thankful and honoured to have been part of what I see as a celebration of God’s glory.
If you are interested to see for yourself, The Kingdom Choir will be touring the country until the 30th May. (see below)
