Frank Williams, an esteemed member of The Jackson Southernaires and a key figure in Malaco Records’ gospel music division, conceived the idea of forming a remarkable mass choir – the Mississippi Mass Choir. His journey began by securing the support of the record company. Subsequently, he commenced a quest to recruit talented individuals from Mississippi, such as David R. Curry Jr., who assumed the role of the choir’s minister of music.
With a solid foundation in place, the Mississippi Mass Choir conducted open auditions that attracted over 100 voices from across the state, culminating in the formation of this extraordinary ensemble. Following months of rigorous rehearsals, the Mississippi Mass Choir embarked on a historic endeavor, recording their eponymous debut album and video live at Thalia Mara Hall, formerly known as Jackson Municipal Auditorium, on October 29, 1988.
In the spring of 1989, a mere five weeks after releasing their debut album, Billboard magazine bestowed the coveted title of the Number 1 Spiritual album in the country upon the Mississippi Mass Choir. This accomplishment was just the beginning of their remarkable journey as the album remained on the Billboard charts for a staggering 45 consecutive weeks, setting a new record for gospel recordings.
The 9th annual James Cleveland GMWA Awards brought further recognition as the Mississippi Mass Choir clinched the titles of Choir of the Year-Contemporary and Best New Artist of the Year-Traditional. Their accolades continued with the receipt of four Stellar Awards in 1989, along with nominations in several categories for the 1989 Soul Train Music Awards and Dove Awards.
The choir’s second album, “God Gets The Glory,” was recorded live at the Mississippi Coliseum on December 8, 1990. The album made an impressive debut on the Billboard chart at Number 16, securing the Number 1 position just two weeks later. Accompanying the album’s success were numerous accolades. Subsequently, the choir recorded two live albums, one in 1991 featuring Frank Williams and James Moore as leads and another in 1995, again featuring James Moore. The choir’s third and most iconic album, “It Remains to be Seen…,” was captured live at Thalia Mara Hall in January 1993 and retained its position at the top of the charts for a full year. Unfortunately, this album marked the end of an era as their founder, Frank Williams, tragically passed away from a heart attack in Savannah, Georgia on March 22, 1993.
Since Frank Williams’ untimely departure, the choir has released eight more albums. As executive director Jerry Mannery eloquently puts it, “We are all about our Father’s business. We are not entertainers; we are ministers for Christ. Our mission remains constant; to serve the Lord and spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
The Mississippi Mass Choir’s impact extends far beyond the United States, with performances in over 40 states, including Alaska. Their reach even stretches across international borders, encompassing countries like Japan, Italy, Spain, the Bahamas, and Greece. Notably, they achieved the distinction of becoming the first gospel group to perform at the Acropolis. During their attendance at the Umbria Jazz Gospel and Soul Easter Festival in Terni, Italy, the choir was invited to perform for none other than Pope John Paul II at his summer residence.
On June 19, 2009, the Mississippi Mass Choir celebrated their 20th anniversary by recording their ninth album, “…Then Sings My Soul,” live at the First Baptist Church in Jackson. The album was officially released on February 1, 2011, marking another milestone in their storied history.
In 2009, the choir released a compilation CD/DVD titled “The First Twenty Years,” featuring beloved songs from their extensive discography and insightful interviews with various choir members.