By BEN BRUHNKE

bebo11@latech.edu

 

The Louisiana Tech University Gospel Choir, Souls on Fire, made history last Sunday night in Howard Auditorium by recording the choir’s first album.

The album, “To God be the Glory,” is the only album the choir has recorded in its 35-year history.

“I wanted everybody to be there because we are making history here,” Jason Knighten, a freshman business major, said.

“I wanted everyone to be loud because if you said ‘Amen’ loud enough [while we were recording], you could be on the [compact disc].”

In addition to the choir, the other entertainment included “The Chosen Generations” music ensemble from Lake Providence.

Harold Green III, a local poet, Charisma Sweat, a soloist, who both attend Grambling State University, and liturgical dance group Men of Gesture also provided entertainment.

Knighten said that the choir has been a part of his family his entire life.

“My mother was in the Tech choir back when it was just a traveling choir,” Knighten said.

“She really enjoyed it, and I wanted to be part of a tradition I know I would enjoy as well.”

Kasey Knighton, president of the choir and a senior sociology major, said he was excited about being apart of Souls on Fire’s first CD.

“I feel awesome about being the first ones to do it,” Knighton said.

“It’s such a brand new feeling doing this project, and it’s almost overwhelming that we’re doing more than just performing.

“The choir has put so much effort and emotion into the project, so I’m glad people will be able to take us into their homes and listen to us any time they feel like it.”

Ronnie Bass, a freshman psychology major and choir member, said the CD will give people the chance to worship anywhere any time.

“Everybody should want to praise the Lord,” Bass said. “That’s what gospel music is really all about. It’s the word of God put into musical form.”

Knighton said the CD will be for every type of listener because of the variety of musical styles.

“I think we can all agree that music is a universal language; it is the one thing that can relate to anybody and any feeling,” Knighton said.

“If you’re happy, there’s music for happiness. If you’re sad, there’s music for sadness. If you’re sleepy, there’s music for when you’re sleepy.

“For those who have never been moved by gospel music, it’s so soothing because you may be having a bad day and put on a gospel record and just let it smooth out all the rough edges.”

Knighton said he hopes others will attend future shows because gospel is more than just music.

“Gospel music is the kind of music you have to see,” Knighton said.

“When you see gospel music it just flows through your body and it makes you want to participate in some kind of way. Either it will make you clap your hands, stomp your feet or sway from side to side.”