About this episode

Val "The Voice" Johnson reflects on the cultural influences of gospel music and its connection to Chicago's musical legacy in celebration of Black Music Month.

In celebration of Black Music Month, Val “The Voice” Johnson reflects on the music, faith, and cultural influences that continue to shape generations through storytelling and sound. In this special episode of The Interludes Podcast, Val revisits powerful moments from Interludes Extra: Talk on Tuesdays featuring award-winning musician, producer, and songwriter Kendall Nesbitt. Together, the conversation explores the deep roots of gospel music in Chicago, the mentorship and musicianship behind the sound, and the surprising connection between gospel and house music culture. Val also shares personal reflections on growing up with gospel music, singing in the choir at Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, and how artists like Walter Hawkins, The Winans, Commission, Kirk Franklin, Fred Hammond, and Donald Lawrence helped shape her musical and spiritual journey. Later in the episode, the conversation shifts from music to inspiration as Val reflects on reading the book “Necessary” by Zenja Glass and discusses the impact of the Unlocking Greatness community and upcoming retreat. Through stories of faith, identity, healing, and purpose, this episode reminds listeners how music, mentorship…

People in this episode

Host: Val "The Voice" Johnson

Guest: Kendall Nesbitt

Topics covered

• Black Music Month
• Gospel music
• Chicago musical legacy
• House music
• Mentorship
• Inspiration

Keywords

• Black Music Month
• Gospel roots
• Chicago soul
• Music mentorship
• House music culture
• Zenja Glass
• Unlocking Greatness

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Calvary Missionary Baptist Church

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