Gospel music has had a host of world-class instrumentalists – organists Bill Preston, Maceo Woods, and Twinkie Clark instantly spring to mind ... but only one gospel saxophone soloist – Vernard Johnson. Or, more appropriately Dr. Johnson, since he has his Ph.D. from Southwest Theological Seminary.
For 50 years, Vernard’s sanctified saxophone has been thrilling congregations across the country with his renditions of classic hymns and gospel songs. On this particular LP, recorded live with the Monument of Faith Breakthrough Choir in Chicago, he performs a soulful version of Doris Akers’ classic, “Sweet, Sweet Spirit.” If you hear the sax stylings of Junior Walker in his solos, that’s because Junior Walker and the All-Stars were Johnson’s strongest musical influence!
MUSIC: (2425) Vernard Johnson with the Monument of Faith Breakthrough Choir, Jesus Can Work It Out, “Sweet Spirit,” Side 1, Track 4, June 23, 2024
I’m Robert Darden … “Shout! Black Gospel Music Moments” is produced by KWBU and the Black Gospel Music Preservation Program at Baylor University Libraries.