McDonald’s USA today announced the extraordinary tenth annual return of its Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour, the longest-running brand owned gospel tour. The line-up for this year’s diamond anniversary features the return of music director and songwriter Donald Lawrence, legendary gospel singer Bishop Marvin Sapp, songwriter and vocal powerhouse Karen Clark-Sheard, award-winning Pastor Charles Jenkins, Christian rapping sensation Canton Jones, gospel crooner Jonathan McReynolds and famed Williams Brothers member Doug Williams. Back by popular demand, award-winning gospel artist Lonnie Hunter will once again resume hosting duties while Christian comedienne Small Fire keeps the crowd roaring with laughter. From May 25 through Oct. 15, this free concert series will share messages of hope, joy, and inspiration to communities nationwide.
“This tour has been a staple in the African American community for ten years. It is an honor to be part of this year’s lineup,” said Bishop Marvin Sapp who, in addition to being one of Gospel music’s most celebrated male voices, is senior pastor of Lighthouse Full Life Center Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan. “Gospel music inspires, uplifts AND empowers like no other music can. I am proud to join my peers and friends in supporting the work of the Ronald McDonald House Charities while bringing joy, hope and encouragement to Gospel music fans around the country.”
As with past years, McDonald’s Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour will highlight the importance of giving back to the community by supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC®). During each tour stop, attendees will learn more about the Charity and the vital role it plays in helping families stay close to their ill or injured children. This increases their ability to spend more time with them and participate in critical medical care decisions for their treatment and recovery. Over the years, the tour has helped raise more than $351,000 for local RMHC Chapters which helped to provide over 4,300 free nights for families to stay at Ronald McDonald Houses. Ronald McDonald House® and Ronald McDonald Family Room® programs across the globe have helped families save an estimated $700 million in out-of-pocket lodging and meal expenses. During most tour stops, attendees will be encouraged to donate to their local RMHC Chapter to continue enabling family-centered care for families in each community at no cost.
“McDonald’s Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour has allowed so many families to stay close to their sick children. The generous donations raised at each tour stop help alleviate some of the stress that comes with finding accommodations near a local children’s hospital. In addition, families that stay together at a Ronald McDonald House believe it significantly affects the psychological well-being and recovery for their child. RMHC, as well as our families, are so grateful for this tour and look forward to it every year,” said Jennifer Smith, Chief Marketing Officer, RMHC Global.
All concerts are free of charge. Fans can obtain tickets by visiting www.365Black.com. The multi-city tour will make stops in 13 markets, including: Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Detroit, Greensboro, Houston, Jackson, Los Angeles, Memphis, Philadelphia, Raleigh, St. Louis and Washington, D.C.
Tour dates and locations include:
- May 25 – Detroit, Greater Grace Temple
- June 1 – Raleigh, Wake Chapel Church
- June 2 – Greensboro, Mount Zion Baptist Church
- June 3 – Charlotte, The Park Church
- June 16 – Jackson, Jackson Convention Center
- June 22 – Philadelphia, Dell Music Center
- July 22 – Houston, New Light Center
- August 4 – Chicago, House of Hope
- August 12 – St. Louis, Friendly Temple Missionary Baptist Church
- August 19 – Atlanta, Changing a Generation Full Gospel Baptist Church
- September 8 – Memphis, Greater Imani Cathedral of Faith
- September 12 – Washington, D.C., The Kennedy Center
- October 15 – Los Angeles, Taste of Soul Family Festival
McDonald’s Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour is an extension of the brand’s 365Black platform, an initiative that celebrates the pride, heritage and achievements of African-Americans year round. Dr Pepper® also returns as the tour’s sponsor, showing its appreciation and commitment to the African-American community.
