Gospel Artists Who Went To An HBCU

Gospel Artists Who Attended HBCUs

1. Yolanda Adams, Texas Southern University

Transitioning from an elementary school teacher to a captivating songstress, Yolanda Adams always possessed the ability to command attention in any room. Despite graduating in 1984 with a degree in Journalism, it wasn’t until four years later that Adams redirected her focus, embarking on a career as a four-time Grammy award-winning musician. In 2017, she had the privilege to return back to her alma mater as the university’s winter commencement speaker.

2. Hezekiah Walker, Virginia Union University

You know you’ve achieved success when you have an entire center named after you on the very grounds where you’re earning your degree. In 2020, Hezekiah went on to obtain a masters in theology from Virginia Union University. While pursuing his studies, just one year later, he not only launched a center, but also conducted his very first virtual class at The Hezekiah Walker Center—a dedicated space aimed at giving Gospel music the recognition it deserves. 

3. Smokie Norful, University of Arkansas Pine Bluff

Smokie graduated from the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff with a Bachelors of History in 1995. During undergrad at Pine Bluff, Smokie crossed through the Gamma Sigma chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Despite his strong passion for music, he dedicated seven years to education. He spent the first couple of years teaching history at two of his childhood schools before settling in at Evanston Township High School in Illinois. Although he excelled in teaching, Smokie’s profound love for music eventually took precedence, leading him to embark on a gospel career in 2002 that would ultimately transform him into a Grammy award-winning artist.

4. Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Clark Atlanta University

Tasha Cobbs Leonard exemplifies the power of belief and achievement. At the tender age of 10, she was captivated by a commercial showcasing Clark Atlanta University, and from that moment, she became determined to follow in her parents’ footsteps. With both her mother and father being alumni of CAU, it felt only natural for Tasha to pursue the same path. Anticipating her destiny, she applied exclusively to Clark while still in high school and secured admission as an undergraduate student in 1999. Despite completing only one year of undergraduate studies, Tasha returned in 2021 to pursue advanced education, enrolling in the school’s Pastoral Leadership and Religious Studies program.

5. Richard Smallwood, Howard University

Attending one of the most renowned HBCUs in the country is an accomplishment, but founding the university’s esteemed gospel choir takes it to another level. It’s a feat Richard Smallwood can proudly claim. He had the privilege of being a student at Howard University for both his undergraduate and graduate studies. Graduating with dual degrees in classical vocal performance and piano, he continued his academic journey to earn a Master of Divinity in 2004. Despite the demanding workload, Richard’s efforts paid off. During his freshman year, he formed a friendship with upperclassman Donny Hathaway and became part of a gospel group Donny occasionally played for, known as “The Celestials” (a precursor to Howard’s gospel choir). In 1969, he took the initiative to establish what is now the university’s gospel choir.

6. Mandisa, Fisk University

Prior to claiming the ninth spot in the fifth season of American Idol, Mandisa had already captivated audiences with her remarkable vocal range while performing with the esteemed Fisk Jubilee Singers. After a short stint at American River College where she studied vocal jazz, Mandisa went on to continue her studies at Fisk University in Nashville, graduating with a Bachelor of Music degree, specializing in vocal performance. Despite not earning the winning title on American Idol, she achieved significant success by winning a Grammy Award for Best Christian Contemporary Music Album in 2014.

7. Shirley Caesar, Shaw University

Fresh out of high school, Shirley Caesar enrolled at North Carolina Central College to pursue Business Education. However, her path was redirected, leading her into ministry and later joining The Caravans with Albertina Walker in 1958. By 1971, she had already clinched her first Grammy award, setting the stage for more to come. Despite leaving college early on, Shirley remained determined to finish what she started. In 1985, she fulfilled that goal by completing her studies at Shaw University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Business Management.

8. Twinkie Clark, Howard University

Renowned gospel artist Twinkie Clark, a member of “The Clark Sisters,” pursued formal music studies at Howard University. While studying at the university, she received specialized training in piano, honing her musical skills that would ultimately catapult her to fame. During her time at HU, Twinkie actively contributed her talents to the Howard University gospel choir. While she attributes her innate talents to her late mother, her exposure to music during her undergraduate years also played a significant role.