About 20 years ago I had the great opportunity to play a concert with Walter Hawkins and the Community College of Allegheny County Gospel Choir. I remember that in rehearsal we were starting the song I Just Can't Tell it All, and not playing it very well. Hawkins stopped us, looked at the band and said, "You're pros. You're pros!" Even though some of us really weren't, that word of affirmation snapped us into line and we played the song the right way from then on.
Walter's brother Edwin has been gracious and encouraging every time I've seen him (see blog post An Unexpected Blessing 4/19/10). At the Music and Arts Love Fellowship conference in Chicago Dr. Edwin Hawkins remained approachable and engaged through it all, even though his heart had to be heavy with concern over his little brother and ministry partner of over 40 years. Prayers were offered up daily for Bishop Walter, yet despite well meaning proclamations of healing and deliverance, the Lord saw fit, in infinite wisdom, to call Walter home.
It's a good thing that so much Walter Hawkins music is on the airwaves and cyberspace these days, giving us an opportunity to re-discover the divinely inspired genius of his music.
A little rain, mixed with God's sunshine,-exerpt from Be Grateful
A little pain makes me appreciate the good times.
What strikes me is the integrity of his writing, which stands in marked contrast to some of the 'me-centric' so-called gospel music of this day. It really holds up, and stands the test of time. A ministry and a testimony for the ages.
I was little more than a toddler when 'O Happy Day' changed gospel music forever in the late '60's. But I remember the song, and that I really liked it. It wasn't until years later I would learn how controversial it was in church circles. Having dealt with my share of misunderstanding and criticism about 'Gospel Jazz', I relate to the Hawkins and Dorseys of the world, and I'm thankful for them, and the faith and courage to stay true to the vision.
