The Clark Sisters
Encyclopedia
The Clark Sisters are an American
gospel
vocal group consisting of four sisters:Jacky Clark Chisholm, Elbernita "Twinkie" Clark
, Dorinda Clark-Cole, and Karen Clark Sheard
. A fifth sister, Denise Clark Bradford, no longer performs with the group. The Clark Sisters are the daughters of legendary gospel musician and choral director Dr. Mattie Moss Clark
. They are credited for helping to bring gospel music to the mainstream and are considered as pioneers of contemporary gospel. Their biggest crossover hits include: "Is My Living in Vain?" "Hallelujah," "He Gave Me Nothing to Lose," "Endow Me," their hit song "Jesus Is A Love Song," "Pure Gold," "Expect a Miracle,"and their largest mainstream crossover gold certified, "You Brought the Sunshine." Some of the Clark Sister's greatest classics dominated Billboard's R & B and gospel charts during the '70s and '80s. Their albums have sold millions, paving the way for newcomers in gospel to continue to take gospel mainstream such as Detroit's own The Winans Family
, including Be Be
& Ce Ce Winans, Commissioned
, Kirk Franklin
, Trin-i-tee 5:7
, Mary Mary
, and many more contemporary gospel artists. The Clark Sisters have won two Grammy Awards. Despite similarity in names, there is no connection with the 1940s/1950's jazz quartet "The Original Clark Sisters
" (also known as The Sentimentalists when they recorded with the Tommy Dorsey
Orchestra). With 16 albums to their credit and millions-upon-millions in sales, the Clark Sisters are the largest selling female gospel group in the history of gospel music.
The following year, Dr. Mattie Moss Clark Presents The Clark Sisters was released and people around Detroit began to take notice of the group. The Clark Sisters signed to Sound of Gospel Records in 1974. Under this association, the group released albums such as Unworthy, Count It All Joy, and He Gave Me Nothing to Lose
. It was not until the early 1980s that The Clark Sisters began to become the phenomenon that they are now. Their popularity soared with the release of the live recording Is My Living In Vain. The first live recording by The Clark Sisters spent an entire year at number one on Billboard's Gospel Music chart. Opening with the bluesy title track, each sister vocally declares that their dedication to Christ is not a useless effort. The innovative "Haya" was funky enough to find its way into a Tonex produced track over two decades later. Songs such as "Pure Gold" and "They Were Overcome" were derived straight from the word of God. Deep faith is roused by Karen Clark's positively possessed lead on "Speak Lord" while the call to worship is raised on the emphatically delivered "Now Is The Time". Another hit from this release "Expect Your Miracle" is still a staple on Sunday mornings in black churches across the country.
Their next release You Brought the Sunshine
would prove to be a monster hit as the title track. Reminiscent of Stevie Wonder
's "Master Blaster (Jammin')," became a hit in church houses and on dance floors, including New York's fabulous Studio 54. "Sunshine" was picked up from its original independent gospel record label Sounds of Gospel and distributed by both Westbound Records and Elektra Records. In 1983, the song peaked at #16 on the Black Singles chart, #27 on the Club Play Charts, and #80 on the Hot R&B Charts driving the album to Gold sales.The classic ‘80s release from The Clark Sisters features the title track that secured their bonafide hit on the Gospel charts while establishing their controversial crossover appeal into secular music genres. This album continues to display Twinkie’s signature blend of scripture with unprecedented vocal and musical arrangements on biblically based songs like “Psalms 31.” Nostalgic Clark fans find their favorites like the sincere prayer found within the lyrics of both “Center of Thy Will” and “Endow Me,” featuring a young but still vocally mature Karen, and also the simply sassy “Overdose of the Holy Ghost” where Dorinda’s alarming similarity to her mother’s vocal dexterity is evident. The discothèque-inspired “He Keeps Me Company,” complete with its bubbly syncopation, is sure to encourage listeners everywhere during even the loneliest of moments as we continue to fight the good fight of faith. The sisters delivered another progressive effort in 1982, Sincerely, which included "Name It And Claim It" and the politically charged "World." The only problem is that its success was overshadowed by the prepotency of the previously released block buster hit "You Brought The Sunshine", but that did not stop this from receiving a Grammy nomination.
, that she should not perform with her girls again.
There were more problems closer to home.
, a division of Word
. This new deal yielded the Grammy-nominated Heart & Soul (1986) featuring the mainstream single "Time Out". This project made an impressive top 5 debut on Billboard's Gospel Charts and garnered the group a coveted Dove Award. Featuring the original versions of “Jesus Is A Love Song”, “Balm in Gilead”, and the prophetic “Pray for the USA", which has been re-recorded several times. The harmonies and musicianship present us the maturing and seamless sound of The Clark Sisters that we have grown to love. The music takes on a more contemporary sound with programmed drums and synthesizers, but the vocals remain true to form. Also included on this hard to find classic is “Smile, God Loves You”, “Time Out”, “I Am Blessed”, and the funky “He’ll Turn Your Scars Into Stars.”
In 1988, The Clark Sisters released their Billboard, chart-topping, critically acclaimed, Conqueror album. One of the most critically acclaimed albums ever released from the Clark Sisters, Conqueror, spills out from your speakers with futuristic vocal arrangements and spectacular studio production featuring a bolder, more intense sound from the Clark Sisters collectively and individually. Twinkie’s musical genius is exhibited as she borrows from more progressive sounds of the late ‘80s to enhance the overall foundation of the project. Her engaging songwriting skills and inimitable vocal chops remain strong and forceful, but even turn sweet and charming on the adorable R/B-influenced “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love.” Karen’s anointed powerhouse vocals on “Take Me Higher” ascend way beyond imagination while Dorinda preaches her way through the drum machine-heavy synthesized “I Won’t Let Go Till You Bless My Soul.” Catch Jacky as she grabs the mic and confidently bounces into a deep ‘80s pop groove on “So Much Joy Inside Me.” Conqueror quickly became a fan favorite with hits like the encouraging “The Darkest Hour Is Just Before The Day” and the original studio version of “Jesus Forevermore” while gaining the Clark Sisters yet another hit album.
In 1989, The Clark Sisters released their highly anticipated LIVE SET, Bringing it Back Home. The last recording from The Clark Sisters on Word Records’ Rejoice imprint and the last group album with Twinkie just before the launch of her solo career, this album brought the sisters back to their hometown of Detroit, Michigan and back to the live stage setting where all the magic happens. This recording features a complete package of surprises for the die-hard Clark fan with a medley including some of their greatest hits like “Is My Living In Vain?”, “You Brought The Sunshine,” and “Hallelujah.” The Clark Sisters also bring new material with Twinkie’s signature lead vocals as she jams on “So Much He’s Done For Me,” Jacky’s soothing presentation on the praise number “Wonderful Counselor”, Dorinda’s blazing energy and improvisations on the hit single “My Redeemer Liveth”, and Karen’s commanding performance on “Prayers of the Righteous.” The album even features guest appearances from gospel icon Rance Allen and backing choir vocals from The Michigan State Choir directed by Dr. Mattie Moss Clark.
In 1994, the Clark Sisters released their last studio album before breaking grounds into their successful solo careers. Their last studio album of the decade, Miracle, was the first album The Clark Sisters recorded without the songwriting and vocals of Twinkie Clark. Produced by BeBe Winans & Michael J. Powell, this disc features a very pop version of the Clark Sisters classic "Expect A Miracle" (now titled Miracle), a remake of the classic "Jesus Is The Best Thing" and a breath taking rendition of "Amazing Grace" with Karen taking it home as only she can. Also, one of Karen's most subdued recordings is on this disc, the beautiful "Simply Yes". Upbeat numbers such as "He's A Real Friend", "No Doubt About It" and "It's Gonna Be Alright" round off this project. Also, Dorinda made her songwriting debut on a Clark Sisters recording with "Work To Do". That album, although it fared well in sales, did not match the success of the Clark Sisters previous successes due to the Clark Sisters not being able to tour and promote the project, due to the illness of their mother, Dr. Mattie Moss Clark. Dr. Mattie Moss Clark passed in September 1994 from diabetes complications.
label and the live project Twinkie Clark-Terrell presents FAMU Gospel Choir. The latter released on CD, VHS, & DVD featured The Clark Sisters on a showstopping remake of their own hit "Nothing To Lose."
Karen delivered her much-anticipated solo debut Finally Karen in 1997. The album, featuring star turns from The Clark Sisters, Faith Evans, and daughter Kierra Sheard, was nominated for a Grammy in addition to winning a Soul Train Lady of Soul award. She has since released three more solo albums: 2nd Chance, The Heavens Are Telling, and It's Not Over
. Dorinda released her first solo album, Dorinda Clark-Cole in 2002, earning her two Stellar awards, and a Soul Train Lady of Soul award. Dorinda has since released two more solo albums: Live in Houston and the most current release Take It Back, each of which have earned Dorinda the award for Female Vocalist of the Year at the Stellar Awards. Jacky released her first solo effort, Expectancy respectively in 2005 which features The Clark Sisters on the soul-stirring track "Blessing Me." The Clark Sisters have all contributed in various capacities to each other's albums, whether they sang or wrote lyrics.
entitled Live... One Last Time. The recording was directed and produced by Donald Lawrence and was released as a CD on April 10, 2007 on EMI Gospel, followed by a CD/DVD Special Edition release June 19, 2007. In support of the reunion album, The Clark Sisters embarked on a 25-city Concert Tour beginning October 4, 2007. The tour began in Nashville
, Tennessee
and visited cities such as New York
, Atlanta, Las Vegas
, and Baltimore
.
Following the group's resurgence in popularity, Rhino Entertainment
is releasing a greatest-hits collection sampling recordings from no less than 3 albums recorded for Word Records from the mid 80's through the early 90's, including the Grammy-nominated Heart & Soul. The album Encore: The Best of The Clark Sisters
was released February 12, 2008.
Clark sister Dorinda mentioned during an acceptance speech at the 2008 Stellar Awards that due to the overwhelming response to Live... One Last Time, the group may soon record again.
Pastor J. Drew Sheard, (Karen's husband) hinted at the sisters' Grammy Celebration on talks of a new album, that would be aptly titled, The Clark Sisters..."Back By Popular Demand!"
Grammy with 1983's Sincerely, 1986's Heart & Soul, and 1988's Conqueror without a win, the group won three Grammys in 2008. Live - One Last Time won the Best Traditional Gospel Album
. Its album track "Blessed & Highly Favored" won the Best Gospel Performance
. As songwriter of "Blessed & Highly Favored," Karen Clark Sheard won the individual Best Gospel Song
.
Additionally, at the 50th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony featuring a gospel segment with Aretha Franklin
, Mary J. Blige
, Israel & New Breed, and Trin-i-tee 5:7
, The Clark Sisters performed a snippet of their signature "You Brought The Sunshine" when the ceremony was broadcast on February 10 at the Staples Center
in Los Angeles, CA.
The Clark Sisters recorded a Christmas Cd followed special appearances with Karen's daughter Kierra Sheard and their cousins Bill Moss Jr. and James Moss known as J Moss and produced by J Drew Sheard
s, acrobatic trills
and riffs, and deep, soulful growls
, or "squalls". The sisters are also well known for each distinctive sound that they contribute. Jacky (alto/tenor) is known for her soft, deeper vocals. Dorinda (alto), the "jazzy" sister, inputs scats
and riffs. Karen (soprano) is known for her riffs, runs, growls and very high vocal range, and has also been known to implement an "echo" in her live performances. Twinkie with her soulful squalls and growls (alto/tenor/soprano/bass) is credited with being the "heart of the Clark Sisters." Early in the group's development, Twinkie was the chief songwriter, music and vocal arranger, producer and also possessing a wide vocal range from soprano to contralto.
There is no single lead vocalist in the group. Jacky leads songs such as "Wonderful Counselor," "I've Got An Angel," and "So Much Joy",and "God Understands All".Dorinda leads "Overdose of the Holy Ghost," "Time Out" and "My Redeemer Liveth","I Won't Let Go Til You Bless My Soul","Determination","Looking To Get There(Heaven)",and "Sanctify Me Lord". Karen sings lead on "Hallelujah," "Endow Me," the Grammy-winning "Blessed and Highly Favored." Twinkie leads on "Pray for the USA," "I've Got The Victory", and their biggest hit "You Brought The Sunshine." Denise Clark sings lead on Something Worth Living For,Count It All Joy And Christ Is Born Today."
The Clark Sisters are the largest selling female gospel group of all time having sold millions upon millions of albums and have paved the way for the contemporary genre of gospel music.
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
gospel
Gospel music
Gospel music is music that is written to express either personal, spiritual or a communal belief regarding Christian life, as well as to give a Christian alternative to mainstream secular music....
vocal group consisting of four sisters:Jacky Clark Chisholm, Elbernita "Twinkie" Clark
Twinkie Clark
Elbernita "Twinkie" Clark-Terrell is a two-time Grammy Award–winning American gospel singer, composer, musician, and evangelist. She is a member of The Clark Sisters, an influential gospel vocal ensemble active since the late '60s.-The Clark Sisters:...
, Dorinda Clark-Cole, and Karen Clark Sheard
Karen Clark Sheard
Karen Clark-Sheard is an American gospel four-time Grammy Award winning singer, musician, and songwriter. The youngest daughter of pioneering gospel choral director Mattie Moss Clark, Sheard began her career as a member of the Grammy-Award winning, gospel legendary female group, The Clark Sisters...
. A fifth sister, Denise Clark Bradford, no longer performs with the group. The Clark Sisters are the daughters of legendary gospel musician and choral director Dr. Mattie Moss Clark
Mattie Moss Clark
Dr. Mattie Moss-Clark was an American gospel choir director and the mother of The Clark Sisters, a world-renowned gospel vocal group...
. They are credited for helping to bring gospel music to the mainstream and are considered as pioneers of contemporary gospel. Their biggest crossover hits include: "Is My Living in Vain?" "Hallelujah," "He Gave Me Nothing to Lose," "Endow Me," their hit song "Jesus Is A Love Song," "Pure Gold," "Expect a Miracle,"and their largest mainstream crossover gold certified, "You Brought the Sunshine." Some of the Clark Sister's greatest classics dominated Billboard's R & B and gospel charts during the '70s and '80s. Their albums have sold millions, paving the way for newcomers in gospel to continue to take gospel mainstream such as Detroit's own The Winans Family
Winans family
The Winans family is an African-American family of Gospel music artists from Detroit, Michigan.-Family members:* David "Pop" Winans, Sr. * Delores "Mom" Winans * David Winans Jr....
, including Be Be
BeBe Winans
Benjamin "BeBe" Winans is a gospel and R&B singer. He is a member of the noted Winans family, most members of which are also gospel artists.-The PTL Club:...
& Ce Ce Winans, Commissioned
Commissioned (gospel group)
Commissioned is an American Gospel group. The group recorded twelve albums over a period of seventeen years.-Group composition:Originally from Detroit, Michigan, the six original members were Fred Hammond, Mitchell Jones, Keith Staten, Karl Reid, Michael Brooks, and Michael Williams formed a...
, Kirk Franklin
Kirk Franklin
Kirk Dwayne Franklin is an American Gospel music musician, choir director, and author, and is most notably known for leading urban contemporary gospel choirs such as The Family, God's Property and One Nation Crew .- Early years :...
, Trin-i-tee 5:7
Trin-i-tee 5:7
Trin-I-Tee 5:7 is a gospel duo from New Orleans, Louisiana in the United States. The group was marketed as a gospel alternative to R&B girl groups such as Destiny's Child and TLC. Trin-i-tee 5:7 has sold over 2.5 million albums....
, Mary Mary
Mary Mary
Mary Mary is an American gospel music duo, consisting of sisters Erica Atkins-Campbell and Tina Atkins-Campbell . The duo are often credited along with Kirk Franklin for broadening the fan base of urban contemporary gospel in the 2000s by introducing elements of soul music, hip hop, funk and jazz...
, and many more contemporary gospel artists. The Clark Sisters have won two Grammy Awards. Despite similarity in names, there is no connection with the 1940s/1950's jazz quartet "The Original Clark Sisters
The Sentimentalists
The Sentimentalists, also known as the "Clark Sisters" , were an American close harmony singing group, consisting of sisters Mary Clark, Peggy Clark Schwartz, Ann Clark, and Jean Clark...
" (also known as The Sentimentalists when they recorded with the Tommy Dorsey
Tommy Dorsey
Thomas Francis "Tommy" Dorsey, Jr. was an American jazz trombonist, trumpeter, composer, and bandleader of the Big Band era. He was known as "The Sentimental Gentleman of Swing", due to his smooth-toned trombone playing. He was the younger brother of bandleader Jimmy Dorsey...
Orchestra). With 16 albums to their credit and millions-upon-millions in sales, the Clark Sisters are the largest selling female gospel group in the history of gospel music.
The early years
The Clark Sisters were born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. They each began singing at an early age and by the late 1960s they were all performing together in church services, usually singing songs written and arranged by their mother. A few years later, Dr. Mattie Moss Clark turned over control of the group to Twinkie, who would then go on to write, arrange, conduct, and produce all of the Clark Sisters' recordings. In 1973, the sisters recorded their first album, Jesus Has A Lot To Give, on their uncle's local label Billesse Records.The following year, Dr. Mattie Moss Clark Presents The Clark Sisters was released and people around Detroit began to take notice of the group. The Clark Sisters signed to Sound of Gospel Records in 1974. Under this association, the group released albums such as Unworthy, Count It All Joy, and He Gave Me Nothing to Lose
He Gave Me Nothing to Lose
He Gave Me Nothing To Lose is a 1979 album by The Clark Sisters. this lp was recored in 1978 through 1979. even though its 4 members on the cover Denise was on it she was just on maternatity leave...
. It was not until the early 1980s that The Clark Sisters began to become the phenomenon that they are now. Their popularity soared with the release of the live recording Is My Living In Vain. The first live recording by The Clark Sisters spent an entire year at number one on Billboard's Gospel Music chart. Opening with the bluesy title track, each sister vocally declares that their dedication to Christ is not a useless effort. The innovative "Haya" was funky enough to find its way into a Tonex produced track over two decades later. Songs such as "Pure Gold" and "They Were Overcome" were derived straight from the word of God. Deep faith is roused by Karen Clark's positively possessed lead on "Speak Lord" while the call to worship is raised on the emphatically delivered "Now Is The Time". Another hit from this release "Expect Your Miracle" is still a staple on Sunday mornings in black churches across the country.
Their next release You Brought the Sunshine
You Brought the Sunshine
You Brought the Sunshine is the eighth album released by the Clark Sisters in 1981. This would become one of the most influential albums of the Clark Sisters' time. The album peaked at number nine on the Gospel Charts, while earning the Sisters their first Gold record certification.-Track listing:...
would prove to be a monster hit as the title track. Reminiscent of Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder
Stevland Hardaway Morris , better known by his stage name Stevie Wonder, is an American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, record producer and activist...
's "Master Blaster (Jammin')," became a hit in church houses and on dance floors, including New York's fabulous Studio 54. "Sunshine" was picked up from its original independent gospel record label Sounds of Gospel and distributed by both Westbound Records and Elektra Records. In 1983, the song peaked at #16 on the Black Singles chart, #27 on the Club Play Charts, and #80 on the Hot R&B Charts driving the album to Gold sales.The classic ‘80s release from The Clark Sisters features the title track that secured their bonafide hit on the Gospel charts while establishing their controversial crossover appeal into secular music genres. This album continues to display Twinkie’s signature blend of scripture with unprecedented vocal and musical arrangements on biblically based songs like “Psalms 31.” Nostalgic Clark fans find their favorites like the sincere prayer found within the lyrics of both “Center of Thy Will” and “Endow Me,” featuring a young but still vocally mature Karen, and also the simply sassy “Overdose of the Holy Ghost” where Dorinda’s alarming similarity to her mother’s vocal dexterity is evident. The discothèque-inspired “He Keeps Me Company,” complete with its bubbly syncopation, is sure to encourage listeners everywhere during even the loneliest of moments as we continue to fight the good fight of faith. The sisters delivered another progressive effort in 1982, Sincerely, which included "Name It And Claim It" and the politically charged "World." The only problem is that its success was overshadowed by the prepotency of the previously released block buster hit "You Brought The Sunshine", but that did not stop this from receiving a Grammy nomination.
Turmoil
In 1983, the Clark Sisters were invited to perform at the Grammy Awards. It proved to be one of the highlights of the annual awards ceremony, but the church did not approve of it. The church told their mother, Mattie Moss ClarkMattie Moss Clark
Dr. Mattie Moss-Clark was an American gospel choir director and the mother of The Clark Sisters, a world-renowned gospel vocal group...
, that she should not perform with her girls again.
There were more problems closer to home.
More Success
After a four-year gap between releases, the sisters would continue as a foursome, signing with Rejoice RecordsRejoice Records
Rejoice Records is a record label subsidiary of Word Records, started in the seventies....
, a division of Word
Word Records
Word Records is a Christian record label based in Nashville, Tennessee. It is a division of Word Entertainment , which, itself is co-owned by Warner Music Group and Curb Records...
. This new deal yielded the Grammy-nominated Heart & Soul (1986) featuring the mainstream single "Time Out". This project made an impressive top 5 debut on Billboard's Gospel Charts and garnered the group a coveted Dove Award. Featuring the original versions of “Jesus Is A Love Song”, “Balm in Gilead”, and the prophetic “Pray for the USA", which has been re-recorded several times. The harmonies and musicianship present us the maturing and seamless sound of The Clark Sisters that we have grown to love. The music takes on a more contemporary sound with programmed drums and synthesizers, but the vocals remain true to form. Also included on this hard to find classic is “Smile, God Loves You”, “Time Out”, “I Am Blessed”, and the funky “He’ll Turn Your Scars Into Stars.”
In 1988, The Clark Sisters released their Billboard, chart-topping, critically acclaimed, Conqueror album. One of the most critically acclaimed albums ever released from the Clark Sisters, Conqueror, spills out from your speakers with futuristic vocal arrangements and spectacular studio production featuring a bolder, more intense sound from the Clark Sisters collectively and individually. Twinkie’s musical genius is exhibited as she borrows from more progressive sounds of the late ‘80s to enhance the overall foundation of the project. Her engaging songwriting skills and inimitable vocal chops remain strong and forceful, but even turn sweet and charming on the adorable R/B-influenced “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love.” Karen’s anointed powerhouse vocals on “Take Me Higher” ascend way beyond imagination while Dorinda preaches her way through the drum machine-heavy synthesized “I Won’t Let Go Till You Bless My Soul.” Catch Jacky as she grabs the mic and confidently bounces into a deep ‘80s pop groove on “So Much Joy Inside Me.” Conqueror quickly became a fan favorite with hits like the encouraging “The Darkest Hour Is Just Before The Day” and the original studio version of “Jesus Forevermore” while gaining the Clark Sisters yet another hit album.
In 1989, The Clark Sisters released their highly anticipated LIVE SET, Bringing it Back Home. The last recording from The Clark Sisters on Word Records’ Rejoice imprint and the last group album with Twinkie just before the launch of her solo career, this album brought the sisters back to their hometown of Detroit, Michigan and back to the live stage setting where all the magic happens. This recording features a complete package of surprises for the die-hard Clark fan with a medley including some of their greatest hits like “Is My Living In Vain?”, “You Brought The Sunshine,” and “Hallelujah.” The Clark Sisters also bring new material with Twinkie’s signature lead vocals as she jams on “So Much He’s Done For Me,” Jacky’s soothing presentation on the praise number “Wonderful Counselor”, Dorinda’s blazing energy and improvisations on the hit single “My Redeemer Liveth”, and Karen’s commanding performance on “Prayers of the Righteous.” The album even features guest appearances from gospel icon Rance Allen and backing choir vocals from The Michigan State Choir directed by Dr. Mattie Moss Clark.
In 1994, the Clark Sisters released their last studio album before breaking grounds into their successful solo careers. Their last studio album of the decade, Miracle, was the first album The Clark Sisters recorded without the songwriting and vocals of Twinkie Clark. Produced by BeBe Winans & Michael J. Powell, this disc features a very pop version of the Clark Sisters classic "Expect A Miracle" (now titled Miracle), a remake of the classic "Jesus Is The Best Thing" and a breath taking rendition of "Amazing Grace" with Karen taking it home as only she can. Also, one of Karen's most subdued recordings is on this disc, the beautiful "Simply Yes". Upbeat numbers such as "He's A Real Friend", "No Doubt About It" and "It's Gonna Be Alright" round off this project. Also, Dorinda made her songwriting debut on a Clark Sisters recording with "Work To Do". That album, although it fared well in sales, did not match the success of the Clark Sisters previous successes due to the Clark Sisters not being able to tour and promote the project, due to the illness of their mother, Dr. Mattie Moss Clark. Dr. Mattie Moss Clark passed in September 1994 from diabetes complications.
Emerging solo artists
Following their last Word Records release, Twinkie resumed her calling as a minister and recorded the independent solo album Comin' Home in 1992. Twinkie Clark re-appeared in 1996 with a pair of albums to her credit: the solo studio release The Masterpiece for Ben Tankard's Tribute RecordsTribute Records
Tribute Records is an American gospel music record label established in 1990. The label was co-founded by 26yr old jazz musician and former pro basketball player Ben Tankard and George King. King owned Nashville based Diadem Music Group which produced Contemporary Christian music. Diadem's...
label and the live project Twinkie Clark-Terrell presents FAMU Gospel Choir. The latter released on CD, VHS, & DVD featured The Clark Sisters on a showstopping remake of their own hit "Nothing To Lose."
Karen delivered her much-anticipated solo debut Finally Karen in 1997. The album, featuring star turns from The Clark Sisters, Faith Evans, and daughter Kierra Sheard, was nominated for a Grammy in addition to winning a Soul Train Lady of Soul award. She has since released three more solo albums: 2nd Chance, The Heavens Are Telling, and It's Not Over
It's Not Over (Karen Clark Sheard album)
- Charts :- Awards :In 2007, the album was nominated for a Dove Award for Contemporary Gospel Album of the Year at the 38th GMA Dove Awards....
. Dorinda released her first solo album, Dorinda Clark-Cole in 2002, earning her two Stellar awards, and a Soul Train Lady of Soul award. Dorinda has since released two more solo albums: Live in Houston and the most current release Take It Back, each of which have earned Dorinda the award for Female Vocalist of the Year at the Stellar Awards. Jacky released her first solo effort, Expectancy respectively in 2005 which features The Clark Sisters on the soul-stirring track "Blessing Me." The Clark Sisters have all contributed in various capacities to each other's albums, whether they sang or wrote lyrics.
The sisters' reunion
More recently, The Clark Sisters did a live recording on July 8, 2006 in Houston, TexasHouston, Texas
Houston is the fourth-largest city in the United States, and the largest city in the state of Texas. According to the 2010 U.S. Census, the city had a population of 2.1 million people within an area of . Houston is the seat of Harris County and the economic center of , which is the ...
entitled Live... One Last Time. The recording was directed and produced by Donald Lawrence and was released as a CD on April 10, 2007 on EMI Gospel, followed by a CD/DVD Special Edition release June 19, 2007. In support of the reunion album, The Clark Sisters embarked on a 25-city Concert Tour beginning October 4, 2007. The tour began in Nashville
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville is the capital of the U.S. state of Tennessee and the county seat of Davidson County. It is located on the Cumberland River in Davidson County, in the north-central part of the state. The city is a center for the health care, publishing, banking and transportation industries, and is home...
, Tennessee
Tennessee
Tennessee is a U.S. state located in the Southeastern United States. It has a population of 6,346,105, making it the nation's 17th-largest state by population, and covers , making it the 36th-largest by total land area...
and visited cities such as New York
New York City
New York is the most populous city in the United States and the center of the New York Metropolitan Area, one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world. New York exerts a significant impact upon global commerce, finance, media, art, fashion, research, technology, education, and...
, Atlanta, Las Vegas
Las Vegas Strip
The Las Vegas Strip is an approximately stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard in Clark County, Nevada; adjacent to, but outside the city limits of Las Vegas proper. The Strip lies within the unincorporated townships of Paradise and Winchester...
, and Baltimore
Baltimore
Baltimore is the largest independent city in the United States and the largest city and cultural center of the US state of Maryland. The city is located in central Maryland along the tidal portion of the Patapsco River, an arm of the Chesapeake Bay. Baltimore is sometimes referred to as Baltimore...
.
Following the group's resurgence in popularity, Rhino Entertainment
Rhino Entertainment
Rhino Entertainment Company is an American specialty record label and production company. It is owned by Warner Music Group.-History:Rhino was originally a novelty song and reissue company during the 1970s and 1980s, releasing compilation albums of pop, rock & roll, and rhythm & blues successes...
is releasing a greatest-hits collection sampling recordings from no less than 3 albums recorded for Word Records from the mid 80's through the early 90's, including the Grammy-nominated Heart & Soul. The album Encore: The Best of The Clark Sisters
Encore (Clark Sisters album)
Encore: The Best of The Clark Sisters is a greatest hits collection by seminal gospel singing group The Clark Sisters to be released on February 12, 2008 through Dexterity Sounds/Rhino Entertainment....
was released February 12, 2008.
Clark sister Dorinda mentioned during an acceptance speech at the 2008 Stellar Awards that due to the overwhelming response to Live... One Last Time, the group may soon record again.
Pastor J. Drew Sheard, (Karen's husband) hinted at the sisters' Grammy Celebration on talks of a new album, that would be aptly titled, The Clark Sisters..."Back By Popular Demand!"
Gospel Grammy awards sweep
Though The Clark Sisters have been thrice nominated previously for the Best Soul Gospel Performance by a Duo or GroupGrammy Award for Best Soul Gospel Performance by a Duo or Group, Choir or Chorus
The Grammy Award for Soul Gospel Performance by a Duo or Group, Choir or Chorus was awarded from 1984 to 1990.Years reflect the year in which the Grammy Awards were presented, for works released in the previous year.-1990s:*Grammy Awards of 1990...
Grammy with 1983's Sincerely, 1986's Heart & Soul, and 1988's Conqueror without a win, the group won three Grammys in 2008. Live - One Last Time won the Best Traditional Gospel Album
Grammy Award for Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album
The Grammy Award for Best Traditional Gospel Album was awarded from 1991 to 2011. A similar award, the Grammy Award for Best Soul Gospel Performance, Traditional was awarded from 1978 to 1983. It was previously known as the award Best Traditional Soul Gospel AlbumThe award will be discontinued...
. Its album track "Blessed & Highly Favored" won the Best Gospel Performance
Grammy Award for Best Gospel Performance
The Grammy Award for Best Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Performance was awarded from 1968 to 1977, and revived for the Grammy Awards of 2005.Through the years, it has had several names:...
. As songwriter of "Blessed & Highly Favored," Karen Clark Sheard won the individual Best Gospel Song
Grammy Award for Best Gospel Song
The Grammy Award for Best Gospel Song is an honor presented at the Grammy Awards, a ceremony that was established in 1958 and originally called the Gramophone Awards, to songwriters for quality gospel songs....
.
Additionally, at the 50th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony featuring a gospel segment with Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin
Aretha Louise Franklin is an American singer, songwriter, and pianist. Although known for her soul recordings and referred to as The Queen of Soul, Franklin is also adept at jazz, blues, R&B, gospel music, and rock. Rolling Stone magazine ranked her atop its list of The Greatest Singers of All...
, Mary J. Blige
Mary J. Blige
Mary Jane Blige is an American singer-songwriter, record producer and occasional actress. She is a recipient of nine Grammy Awards and four American Music Awards, and has recorded eight multi-platinum albums. She is the only artist with Grammy Award wins in Pop, Rap, Gospel, and R&B. Blige has...
, Israel & New Breed, and Trin-i-tee 5:7
Trin-i-tee 5:7
Trin-I-Tee 5:7 is a gospel duo from New Orleans, Louisiana in the United States. The group was marketed as a gospel alternative to R&B girl groups such as Destiny's Child and TLC. Trin-i-tee 5:7 has sold over 2.5 million albums....
, The Clark Sisters performed a snippet of their signature "You Brought The Sunshine" when the ceremony was broadcast on February 10 at the Staples Center
Staples Center
Staples Center is a multi-purpose sports arena in Downtown Los Angeles. Adjacent to the L.A. Live development, it is located next to the Los Angeles Convention Center complex along Figueroa Street. Opening on October 17, 1999, it is one of the major sporting facilities in the Greater Los Angeles...
in Los Angeles, CA.
The Clark Sisters recorded a Christmas Cd followed special appearances with Karen's daughter Kierra Sheard and their cousins Bill Moss Jr. and James Moss known as J Moss and produced by J Drew Sheard
"The Clark Sound"
The Clark Sisters are renowned for their unique vocal stylings, dubbed as "The Clark Sound." They incorporate high and fast melismaMelisma
Melisma, in music, is the singing of a single syllable of text while moving between several different notes in succession. Music sung in this style is referred to as melismatic, as opposed to syllabic, where each syllable of text is matched to a single note.-History:Music of ancient cultures used...
s, acrobatic trills
Trill (music)
The trill is a musical ornament consisting of a rapid alternation between two adjacent notes, usually a semitone or tone apart, which can be identified with the context of the trill....
and riffs, and deep, soulful growls
Growling
Growling or growl is a low, guttural vocalization produced by predatory animals as a warning to others, as a sign of aggression, or to express anger. Low or dull rumbling noises may also be emitted by human beings when discontent with something or angry...
, or "squalls". The sisters are also well known for each distinctive sound that they contribute. Jacky (alto/tenor) is known for her soft, deeper vocals. Dorinda (alto), the "jazzy" sister, inputs scats
Scat singing
In vocal jazz, scat singing is vocal improvisation with wordless vocables, nonsense syllables or without words at all. Scat singing gives singers the ability to sing improvised melodies and rhythms, to create the equivalent of an instrumental solo using their voice.- Structure and syllable choice...
and riffs. Karen (soprano) is known for her riffs, runs, growls and very high vocal range, and has also been known to implement an "echo" in her live performances. Twinkie with her soulful squalls and growls (alto/tenor/soprano/bass) is credited with being the "heart of the Clark Sisters." Early in the group's development, Twinkie was the chief songwriter, music and vocal arranger, producer and also possessing a wide vocal range from soprano to contralto.
There is no single lead vocalist in the group. Jacky leads songs such as "Wonderful Counselor," "I've Got An Angel," and "So Much Joy",and "God Understands All".Dorinda leads "Overdose of the Holy Ghost," "Time Out" and "My Redeemer Liveth","I Won't Let Go Til You Bless My Soul","Determination","Looking To Get There(Heaven)",and "Sanctify Me Lord". Karen sings lead on "Hallelujah," "Endow Me," the Grammy-winning "Blessed and Highly Favored." Twinkie leads on "Pray for the USA," "I've Got The Victory", and their biggest hit "You Brought The Sunshine." Denise Clark sings lead on Something Worth Living For,Count It All Joy And Christ Is Born Today."
The Clark Sisters are the largest selling female gospel group of all time having sold millions upon millions of albums and have paved the way for the contemporary genre of gospel music.
Albums
- 1973: Jesus Has a Lot to Give
- 1974: Dr. Mattie Moss Clark Presents the Clark Sisters
- 1975 Sound Of Gospel Presents
- 1976: Unworthy
- 1978: Count It All Joy #20 (US Gospel)
- 1978: New Dimensions of Christmas Carols
- 1979: He Gave Me Nothing to LoseHe Gave Me Nothing to LoseHe Gave Me Nothing To Lose is a 1979 album by The Clark Sisters. this lp was recored in 1978 through 1979. even though its 4 members on the cover Denise was on it she was just on maternatity leave...
(But All to Gain) #18 (US Gospel) - 1980: Is My Living in Vain #18 (US Gospel)
- 1981: You Brought the SunshineYou Brought the SunshineYou Brought the Sunshine is the eighth album released by the Clark Sisters in 1981. This would become one of the most influential albums of the Clark Sisters' time. The album peaked at number nine on the Gospel Charts, while earning the Sisters their first Gold record certification.-Track listing:...
#9 (US Gospel) - 1982: Sincerely #12 (US Gospel)
- 1982: Gospel
- 1984: Heart and Soul (First version Never released)
- 1986: Best
- 1986: Heart and Soul #5 (US Gospel)
- 1988: Conqueror #7 (US Gospel), #29 (US Contemporary Christian)
- 1989: Bringing It Back Home #13 (US Gospel)
- 1994: Miracle #8 (US Gospel)
- 2007: Live - One Last Time #1 (US Gospel), #56 (US Billboard 200)
- 2008: Encore: The Best of the Clark Sisters
- 2008: The Clark Sisters Definitive Gospel Collection
- 2009: A Clark Family Christmas #15 (US Gospel)
Singles
| Year | Singles | Chart Positions | Album | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| US Gospel Billboard charts The Billboard charts tabulate the relative weekly popularity of songs or albums in the United States. The results are published in Billboard magazine... |
US R&B Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, is a chart released weekly by Billboard in the United States.The chart, initiated in 1942, is used to track the success of popular music songs in urban, or primarily African American, venues. Dominated over the years at various times by jazz, rhythm and blues, doo-wop, soul,... |
Hot Dance Club Billboard charts The Billboard charts tabulate the relative weekly popularity of songs or albums in the United States. The results are published in Billboard magazine... |
|||
| 1973 | "Jesus Has A Lot To Give" | 20 | - | - | Jesus Has A Lot to Give |
| 1980 | "Is My Living In Vain" | 1 | - | - | Is My Living In Vain |
| 1982 | "Name It Claim It" | 2 | - | - | Sincerely |
| "World" | - | - | 8 | ||
| 1983 | "You Brought the Sunshine" | 8 | 80 | 23 | You Brought the Sunshine |
| 1986 | "Time Out" | 1 | - | 43 | Heart & Soul |
| "Jesus is a Love Song" | - | 105 | - | ||
| "Pray for the U.S.A." | - | - | - | ||
| 1991 | "My Redeemer Liveth" | - | - | - | Bringing It Back Home |
| "Hallelujah" | - | - | - | ||
| 2007 | "Blessed & Highly Favored" | 1 | - | - | Live: One Last Time |
| "Livin'" | 2 | 117 | - | ||
| 2008 | "Looking To Get There (Heaven)" | - | - | - | |
| "Something New" | - | - | - | ||
| 2009 | "Instrument (Re-issue live)" | - | - | - | |
Other Appearances
- "Lift Up Your Heads, O Ye Gates" - Commissioned & The Clark Sisters (from Handel's Messiah: A Soulful Celebration) (Reprise, 1992)
- "Nothing to Lose" - Florida A&M University Gospel Choir featuring The Clark Sisters (Crystal Rose, 1996)
- "Jesus Is a Love Song" - Karen Clark-Sheard featuring The Clark Sisters (from Finally Karen) (Island, 1997)
- "Pure Gold" - Karen Clark-Sheard featuring The Clark Sisters (from Finally Karen... Live! - VHS Only) (Island/Polygram Video, 1997)
- "Show Me the Way" - Dorinda Clark-Cole featuring The Clark Sisters (from Dorinda Clark-Cole) (Gospocentric, 2002)
- "You Brought the Sunshine" - Kelly PriceKelly PriceKelly Price is an American R&B and soul singer, formerly on the Def Soul label.-Life and music career:Kelly Cherelle Price was born in Queens, New York. She was first discovered by Mariah Carey in February 1992 and subsequently introduced to Sony Columbia's then CEO Tommy Mottola...
feat. The Clark Sisters (Def Soul, 2003) - "I'm Not Perfect" - Missy ElliottMissy ElliottMelissa Arnette "Missy" Elliott , is an American rapper, singer-songwriter, record producer, and actressA five-time Grammy Award winner, Elliott, with record sales of over seven million in the United States, is the only female rapper to have five albums certified platinum by the RIAA, including one...
feat. The Clark Sisters (from This Is Not a Test) (Elektra, 2003) - "I Made It" - Twinkie ClarkTwinkie ClarkElbernita "Twinkie" Clark-Terrell is a two-time Grammy Award–winning American gospel singer, composer, musician, and evangelist. She is a member of The Clark Sisters, an influential gospel vocal ensemble active since the late '60s.-The Clark Sisters:...
featuring The Clark Sisters (from Home Once Again) (Verity, 2004) - "Blessing Me" - Jacky Clark-ChisholmJacky Clark-ChisholmJacky Clark-Chisholm is a two-time Grammy Award winning American gospel singer, most notably known as a member of The Clark Sisters.-Early life:Jacky is the eldest daughter of legendary gospel innovator Dr. Mattie Moss-Clark...
featuring The Clark Sisters (from Expectancy) (Entheos, 2005) - "Higher Ground" - Robert Randolph & The Clark Sisters (from Oh Happy Day: An All-Star Music CelebrationOh Happy Day: An All-Star Music Celebration"Some of secular music's top acts -- among them Queen Latifah, Jon Bon Jovi, Joss Stone and 3 Doors Down -- take a walk on the spiritual side for Oh Happy Day: An All-Star Music Celebration."...
) (EMI Gospel/Vector Recordings, 2009) - "I Wanna Thank You"- The Clark Sisters, Kierra SheardKierra SheardKierra "Kiki" Sheard is an American gospel recording artist. She is the daughter of gospel singer Karen Clark Sheard and the granddaughter of gospel choral director Mattie Moss Clark.-Early life:Born in Detroit, Michigan and raised in the suburb of West Bloomfield, Sheard spent her formative years...
, and J MossJ MossJ. Moss , Detroit, Michigan is an American singer-songwriter, composer, arranger, and producer.-Early years:...
(from "Silky Soul Music... an All-star Tribute to Maze feat. Frankie BeverlyFrankie BeverlyFrankie Beverly is an American singer, musician, songwriter, and producer, known primarily for his recordings with the soul and funk band, Maze.-Early life and career:...
) (Brantera Music Group, 2009) the clark sisters is the best singing female group in gospel in secondary music they blending in harmonizing is so perfect
Covers
- One of the Clarks' signature songs "Is My Living In Vain" was remade by R&B quartet XscapeXscape (band)Xscape, was a female American R&B group that originally started out as a quintet and then became a quartet. The group had a string of hit songs during the 1990s...
, as well as Light RecordsLight RecordsLight Records was a gospel record label founded in 1966 by Ralph Carmichael as a joint venture with the Waco, Texas-based Word Records.-History:...
gospel quartet Zie'l. - An early Clark favorite "Endow Me" from their chart topping album You Brought The Sunshine was remade by CokoCokoCheryl Elizabeth "Coko" Clemons is an American gospel and R&B singer, and lead singer of R&B group Sisters With Voices .-Musical career:...
featuring Faith EvansFaith EvansFaith Renée Evans is an American singer-songwriter, recording artist, record producer, actress and author. Born in Florida and raised in New Jersey, Evans relocated to Los Angeles during 1993 for a career with the music business. After working as a backing vocalist for Al B...
, Fantasia BarrinoFantasia BarrinoFantasia Monique Barrino commonly known as Fantasia, is an American R&B singer, Broadway and television actress who rose to fame as the winner of the third season of the reality television series American Idol in 2004. Following her victory, she released her debut single, "I Believe", which...
, and Lil' MoLil' MoCynthia Loving , also known by her stage name Lil' Mo, is an American R&B singer, Washington, D.C. radio personality, songwriter & record producer. She is best known for collaborating with artists such as Ja Rule, Angie Martinez, Sacario, Missy Elliott, Ol' Dirty Bastard and Fabolous, and for her...
on her 2006 gospel debut. - "You Brought The Sunshine" has been covered by artists such as Al GreenAl GreenAlbert Greene , better known as Al Green, is an American gospel and soul music singer. He reached the peak of his popularity in the 1970s, with hit singles such as "You Oughta Be With Me", "I'm Still In Love With You", "Love and Happiness", and "Let's Stay Together"...
, Kelly PriceKelly PriceKelly Price is an American R&B and soul singer, formerly on the Def Soul label.-Life and music career:Kelly Cherelle Price was born in Queens, New York. She was first discovered by Mariah Carey in February 1992 and subsequently introduced to Sony Columbia's then CEO Tommy Mottola...
, Shirley MurdockShirley MurdockShirley Murdock is an American R&B singer, who is best known for her 1986 R&B hit single "As We Lay" and for her vocals on Zapp and Roger hit single Computer Love.-Career:...
, Out of EdenOut of EdenOut of Eden was an American Gospel music group often identified with R&B, and contemporary Christian music. It featured sisters Lisa Kimmey, Andrea Kimmey-Baca, and Danielle Kimmey...
, Melinda DoolittleMelinda DoolittleMelinda Marie Doolittle is an American singer who finished as the third place finalist on the sixth season of American Idol...
and LeJeune Thompson. - The ending vamp of the song "I've Got An Angel" from the (1986) Heart & Soul album of the Clark Sisters was used by AaliyahAaliyahAaliyah Dana Haughton , who performed under the mononym Aaliyah , was an American R&B recording artist, actress and model. She was born in Brooklyn, New York, and was raised in Detroit, Michigan. At the age of 10, she appeared on the television show Star Search and performed in concert alongside...
in the song "Never Givin' Up" off of her 1996 album "One In A Million". - "Hallelujah" from the Clark Sisters was sung in the Derek LukeDerek LukeDerek Luke is an American actor. He won the Independent Spirit Award for his big-screen debut performance in the 2002 film Antwone Fisher, directed and produced by Denzel Washington.-Early life:...
film Antwone FisherAntwone FisherAntwone Quenton Fisher is an American director, screenwriter, author and film producer. His 2001 autobiographical book Finding Fish is a New York Times Best Seller...
, starring Denzel WashingtonDenzel WashingtonDenzel Hayes Washington Jr. is an American actor, screenwriter, director, and film producer. He first rose to prominence when he joined the cast of the medical drama, St. Elsewhere, playing Dr...
.
External links
- Official Clark Sisters Website
- Clark Sisters Official Myspace Page
- The Clark Lounge
- The Clark Sisters Official Message Board
- The Clark Sisters Youtube Video Channel
- Clark Sisters Marathon on Myspace
- Clark Sisters Internet Radio Station on Live365Live365Live365 is an Internet radio network where members can create their own online radio station or listen to other Live365 broadcasters' online stations. As of October 2006, there were about 6,500 active stations, some of which play niche genres seldom heard on AM/FM radio...
- Stellar Awards
- Clark Sisters: Live, One Last Time (Release Alert on BlackGospel.com)