January 25, 2024
Pearl River Community College had the honor of hosting the GRAMMY award-winning artist David Phelps at the Brownstone Center for the Arts as part of his “After the Downbeat” Tour. The atmosphere was exhilarating as hundreds of concertgoers embraced the performance, immersing themselves in the uplifting energy and impactful messages shared throughout the evening.
Comedian Mickey Bell took to the stage, helping to inject humor and build up the evening’s anticipation. He also came on stage prior to a scheduled intermission, sharing his personal story and the why behind his comedic act.
The evening was filled with the soulful melodies of Christian music and secular pieces woven into his sets. Songs performed included secular selections like “What the World Needs Now” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” Gospel favorites included “For Those Tears I Died” and “I’m Rich.” Audience members could be heard joining along with their favorite selections.
Both backup singers had their moment in the spotlight. Callie Phelps performed the song “Blooming on the Other Side” written by her father in memory of his sister Sherry Phelps Proctor. Natalie sang the familiar soulful song “At Last.”
Between songs, Phelps shared snippets of his life, including his time with the Gaithers, the struggle of losing a front tooth in the middle of a performance, and the involvement of his family in his ministry through music. His daughter Callie was one of two vocalists on stage with him for the evening.
Audience members were reminded that he releases a new video every Friday on his YouTube channel.
Taylor Walker of Picayune is a Pearl River alum who was excited to see Phelps for the fifth time. She grew up listening to him with the Gaither Vocal Band and has been a fan since childhood.
“The concert was amazing,” said Walker. “It is so refreshing to have such amazing talent visit a small town. I really enjoyed ‘The End of the Beginning’ for the message it brings and ‘Nessun Dorma’ because of the sheer awesomeness. I cried for both!”
About David Phelps
A vocal powerhouse, David Phelps is celebrated for his three-octave range and remarkable ability to connect through song. His accolades include Dove Awards, Grammy Awards, and chart-topping releases like the 2017 DVD “The Best of David Phelps.”
He graduated from Baylor University and was a member of the Gaither Vocal Band for sixteen years. He focused on his solo career beginning in 2017.
David’s eclectic style sets him apart, making each musical endeavor a unique experience.
Future Brownstone Events
The spring semester offers audiences several opportunities to experience PRCC student talent.
Spring Variety Show (with a Singers Reunion!) — February 29 at 7 p.m.
Grease — April 11 & 12 at 7 p.m.; April 13 at 2 p.m.
Wind Ensemble Concert — April 15 at 7 p.m.
Spring Pops — April 23 at 7 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased at prcc.edu/brownstone/upcoming-events.
Brownstone Backstage
Brownstone Backstage is an initiative that empowers individuals to offer support for the performing arts in their community. By joining Brownstone Backstage, you help our students create the best possible performances in the area, maintain the beauty and elegance of the facility, and attract artists from all over to come and perform on the Brownstone stage.
You can join at prcc.edu/brownstone/membership/.
For the latest news on Pearl River Community College, visit PRCC.edu and follow us on Twitter (@PRCC_Wildcats), Instagram (PRCCWILDCATS), Facebook (@PRCCMKTG), and TikTok (@prcc_wildcats).
Article and photography by Laura O’Neill.
