Butler’s 25th Annual GospelFest

Grammy-winning gospel superstars Kirk Franklin and Yolanda Adams will perform at the 25th anniversary Butler University GospelFest concert, “Celebration of Praise. A spirit-filled evening of praise and ministry, GospelFest also will feature Midwestern church and collegiate choirs, and gospel ensembles. Local opening acts will perform 15-minute sets prior to the performances by Adams and Franklin. The program will conclude with a benediction and also will feature a tribute to the late global icon Nelson Mandela. The mission of GospelFest is to engage the greater Indianapolis and Midwest community in celebration and appreciation of this historic musical genre that has made a profound impact on the fabric of American culture and the global society. The event is sponsored by the Butler University Office of Diversity Programs, Efroymson Diversity Center, DJGENO.com, Meridian Media Productions, Radionext.tv, and the stations of Radio One. Franklin is a multi-platinum-selling artist whose fusion of gospel and contemporary music has inspired audiences across generations. As a mirror of Christian humanity, he boldly reflects what one faith-walking man can accomplish when he focuses on God and taps deep into the gifts he has been given. Franklin is a pioneer in bridging gaps among various musical styles, uniting audiences across gospel, hip-hop, pop, and R&B. He is also the New York Times best-selling author of The Blueprint: A Plan for Living Above Life’s Storms and is the host and executive producer of the gospel talent show Sunday Best, the highest-rated gospel program in BET network history. Adams has accomplished what few singers before her have ever achieved: The ability to attract fans from all walks of life without ever straying from the intricate roots that nurtured her Grammy-winning voice in the first place. On December 11, 2009, Billboard magazine named her the No. 1 Gospel Artist of the last decade and called her album Mountain High…Valley Low the best gospel album. “Music has always been a potent force,” she said. “Our music—gospel music—has always been a comfort to those who are looking for some kind of encouragement in their lives.”