Last month was my sister birthday and I wanted to do something special with her to celebrate. So when I received an invitation to attend Verizon's "How Sweet the Sound" Concert here in NYC at Radio City Music Hall, I knew this would be a great birthday surprise.

While we both go to church, my sister is the one who's really into modern Gospel music. Even though I did grow up hearing Gospel music and know a little about some current artist, my current music selection tends to be more international. Still I look forward to hearing from co-hosts Donald Lawrence and Yolanda Adams (I know her!).


Bishop Hezekiah Walker sings "Every Praise"

The concert also featured Tamela Mann, Bishop Hezekiah Walker, VaShawn Mitchell and Donnie McCLurkin as the celebrity judges and performers. While I didn't exactly know who everyone was, my sister was super excited to see live the people she listens to on a regular basis.


For my part I was excited to hear the different gospel choirs competing to win a recording contract and up to $50,000 in cash and prizes. Let me tell you the gospel choirs didn't disappoint. Each choir had their own story to tell via music and it was amazing. I was able to take photos and video thanks to the HTC One provided to me by Verizon to capture the event.

While all the choirs were amazing, two really took their music and presentation to a level that impressed both the judges and the audience.

The St. Thomas Gospel Choir of the African Episcopal Church won Regional Winners



Vy Higginsen's Gospel for Teens Choir won Regional Runner-Up



At the end of the concert the winners received their well earned prizes and chance to move on represent New York in the grand finale event in Los Angeles.


It was an amazing night and my sister enjoyed her birthday present and chance to sing praises along with her gospel stars. I enjoyed a night of sharing music with family.

Thanks so much to Verizon for providing the tickets for this experience.

Verizon’s How Sweet the Sound pays tribute to gospel music and provides choirs a platform to showcase their talent with a broader community. The program is a year-long series of gospel experiences that unite communities and cities all across America in celebration and song.

For information on tour cities, dates, judging criteria, and official event rules please visit www.HowSweetTheSound.com