A Musical Marriage Made in Heaven
Imagine the soaring passion of a gospel choir meeting the sweeping grandeur of a full symphony orchestra. It’s a sound that stirs something deep within, a fusion of two of music’s most powerful forces. And now, that imagination becomes reality.
The London Symphony Orchestra, one of the world’s most celebrated orchestras with over a century of musical excellence, has partnered with Apple’s Platoon label to create something unprecedented. “SHOUT FOR JOY” is an album that reimagines gospel music through an orchestral lens in ways never heard before.
Breaking New Ground
Set for release on November 7th, “SHOUT FOR JOY” isn’t just another crossover project. This is a bold artistic statement that honors the spiritual depth and cultural richness of gospel while introducing it to new audiences through the timeless beauty of classical orchestration.
“This album is a true meeting of worlds,” explains Dr. André J. Thomas, who conducts the London Symphony Orchestra on the project. “By combining the emotional depth of gospel with the timeless beauty of classical music, we’ve created something that speaks to the heart and spirit of every listener.”
Two lead singles are already available for those eager to experience this groundbreaking sound. ‘Hallelujah, You’re Worthy’ features MOBO Award winner Lurine Cato MBE, while ‘Gloria’ showcases the powerhouse vocalist Evvie McKinney. These tracks offer a tantalizing preview of an album that promises to lift hearts and stir souls.
An All Star Lineup
The musical forces assembled for this project read like a dream team. Under Dr. Thomas’s baton, the London Symphony Orchestra provides the symphonic foundation while gospel royalty brings the spiritual fire. Lurine Cato, celebrated for her extraordinary vocal ability and honored with an MBE for her contributions to music, leads the charge alongside Memphis vocal powerhouse Evvie McKinney.
The acclaimed pianist Brandon A. Boyd adds his artistry to the mix while the Soul Sanctuary Gospel Choir delivers the full bodied communal sound that is gospel’s heartbeat. Behind the scenes, multi Grammy winner Jonathan Allen produces, ensuring every note achieves its maximum emotional impact.
The recording took place at LSO St Luke’s, the orchestra’s beautifully restored venue in London. It created an intimate yet majestic atmosphere perfectly suited to this ambitious vision.
From Jubilation to Devotion
The album’s repertoire spans the emotional landscape of gospel music. Tracks like ‘Hallelujah, You’re Worthy’ and ‘Sign Me Up’ capture gospel’s jubilant, celebratory energy. This is the kind of music that makes you want to stand up and rejoice. Meanwhile, songs like ‘Total Praise’ and ‘It’s Working’ showcase the genre’s more contemplative side, expressing heartfelt devotion and unwavering faith.
Each piece has been reimagined with symphonic textures that complement rather than overshadow the gospel tradition. The strings add layers of emotion. The brass punctuates moments of triumph. The woodwinds weave through the vocals with delicate beauty. It’s gospel music, elevated.
Honoring Roots, Reaching Forward
“We wanted to honor gospel’s roots while introducing it to new audiences in a fresh, symphonic way,” shares Kunmi Ogunsola, A&R at Platoon Music. “This album is about joy, hope, and the universal power of music to uplift.”
That respect for tradition is crucial. Gospel music emerged from the African American church experience, carrying within it centuries of struggle, faith, and triumph. Its power lies not just in technical excellence but in its ability to express the deepest human emotions. Pain and joy. Despair and hope. Lament and celebration.
By bringing orchestral sophistication to these timeless expressions of faith, “SHOUT FOR JOY” creates a bridge between musical worlds. Classical music lovers discover the emotional directness and spiritual power of gospel. Gospel fans experience their beloved music adorned with symphonic majesty. And everyone in between finds common ground in music that celebrates our shared humanity.
The Power of Partnership
This collaboration speaks to the evolving landscape of music in the 21st century. Platoon, acquired by Apple in 2018, has built its reputation on identifying groundbreaking talent and innovative projects. The label’s first major success came with signing a then unknown Billie Eilish. Since then, it has worked with artists ranging from Mr Eazi to Victoria Monét, and now, a 120 year old orchestra.
The London Symphony Orchestra, for its part, has never been content to simply preserve tradition. Since its founding in 1904 by the musicians themselves, the LSO has maintained a reputation for ambition and innovation alongside its commitment to excellence. The orchestra believes extraordinary music should be available to everyone, everywhere. It’s a philosophy perfectly aligned with this gospel collaboration.
A Sound for Our Times
In a world that often feels divided, “SHOUT FOR JOY” offers something we desperately need. Music that brings people together. It transcends genres, cultures, and backgrounds to tap into something universal. The human need for hope, for joy, for connection.
Whether you’re a lifelong gospel devotee, a classical music fan, or simply someone who appreciates powerful, soul stirring music, this album promises an experience unlike any other. It’s music that makes you feel something. Music that reminds you why we create and share art in the first place.
As we count down to the November 7th release, the lead singles ‘Hallelujah, You’re Worthy’ and ‘Gloria’ are available now. They offer a glimpse into this historic musical moment. They’re more than just songs. They’re invitations to experience the transcendent power of music that knows no boundaries.
In the end, “SHOUT FOR JOY” is exactly what its title promises. A celebration. A celebration of faith, of artistry, of the incredible things that happen when musicians dare to dream beyond traditional boundaries. It’s proof that when you combine passion with excellence, reverence with innovation, you create something truly extraordinary.
The question isn’t whether you should listen. The question is, are you ready to experience gospel music as you’ve never heard it before?
“SHOUT FOR JOY” releases November 7th on all major streaming platforms. Lead singles ‘Hallelujah, You’re Worthy’ featuring Lurine Cato MBE and ‘Gloria’ featuring Evvie McKinney are available now. Follow the London Symphony Orchestra on social media @londonsymphonyorchestra
