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Ray Johnston has made it his lifelong commitment to use gospel music to touch Montrealers.
That commitment was put into place more than three decades ago when he became a member of The New Born Souls, a gospel group founded by his brother Dexter while they were at Bible Way Pentecostal Church in Little Burgundy, under the guidance of highly respected spiritual leader Pastor St. Claire Knight.
He says Pastor Knights was a mentor and he taught them: “to use our talent to spread the Gospel and to reach the community with the good news of Jesus Christ.”
Since then, Johnston has been a part of the Montreal gospel scene still performing, but also a songwriter, recording artist, producer, vocal coach, and host of the Saturday morning Gospel show, Gospel Unlimited, on CJLO 1690AM.
Six years ago, he added an exclamati
on mark to his ongoing s
tory when he founded The Living Room Gospel Fusion, a monthly showcase of emerging talent. It started at EB Lounge, then moved to the Caribbean Paradise in LaSalle, and is now staged bi-monthly at venues across the city.
On June 11, Ray adds yet another chapter to his storied involvement in the local Gospel circuit by putting together a massive gathering of local talents in concert at the Montreal West Church of God of Prophecy, 5255 rue de Sorel under the theme: “Shout to the Lord.”
The event will bring together a lineup of local favorites, including the highly talented Nii Okai Robertson, who has been captivating audiences across the city and beyond with his voice and wizardry on the guitar.
Other performers who will be on stage are the Montreal West Gospel Choir, Dexter Johnston, James Andrews, Zina Edwards, Mark Henry and the Bless Band, Priscilla Findley, Simona McDonald, and the Chromatic Effect, all of who have performed at the Living Room Gospel Fusion events over the years.
Johnston will make a special appearance with an ensemble of musical friends.
Also, two emerging talents Rayandra Hudson and the Christian Flag Band are gearing up for début appearances at the show.
Johnston and his team of organizers say they are expecting music lovers to be present in large numbers for this grand showcase of Montreal gospel personalities, all of whom he describes as “dedicated, gifted and anointed.”
“SHOUT TO THE LORD” on June 11 at the Montreal West Church of God of Prophecy, 5255 rue de Sorel (opposite de la Savanne Metro). Doors open at 6:30PM SHOW TIME 7:00PM. Tickets in advance $25, at the door $35.
Information: 514-718-9435 • 514-484-8271 •514-222-0474.
