By Stephanie R. Jones
Contributing Writer
When the Paul Porter Experience arrived in Jackson Sunday evening it was about much more than the Atlanta-based gospel great.
A full house at Thalia Mara Hall heard from some of the greatest gospel singers from the South and beyond.
Porter and the incomparable Rance Allen Group were joined during the evening by the Mississippi Mass Choir, the Canton Spirituals, Stan Jones and Doug Williams of the Williams Brothers. Also taking the stage were Ruben Studdard of “American Idol” fame and Le’Andria Johnson, winner of Season 3 of “Sunday Best” in 2010.
Bobby Johnson, of BET’s “Bobby Jones Gospel,” also performed before taking a seat in the audience to watch the energetic, enthusiastic and encouraging show. Along with the signing was lots of words of encouragement for better times in life.
Audience members couldn’t keep their seats as the artists performed such standards as “Joy of the Lord” and “Something About the Name Jesus” (Allen), “Started My Life Over Again” (Canton Spirituals), and, of course, Porter’s signature song “Two Wings.”
Before taking the stage Porter show a video detailing his journey from sickness to health. In 1996, Porter had a brain aneurism that left him unable to see, speak or walk. He spent three years in a wheel chair and underwent multiple surgeries. Over time he was able to go from the wheelchair to a walker, then a cane. By 2006, he was able to walk on his own.
The show ended with all the groups joining in on a finale song.
Stephanie R. Jones can be reached at srjones13@gmail.com or (601) 454-0372.
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