Gospel Parade of Stars is a Two Volumes DVD of some of Gospels greatest artists. The release is the brainchild of Herman Amis. Mr. Amis is a veteran gospel music promoter, Radio Angel, television personality and broadcast entrepreneur. There is also a Volumes 3 and 4 DVD. This review is limited to Volume 1 of the first DVD.

Volume one begins with Willie Neal Johnson & The Gospel Keynotes singing "I’ll Do What You Want Me To Do."  Joining the late Willie Neal Johnson were Charles McClain, Gino and Jeffrey Newberry. This one will bring back fond memories.  The Gospel Keynotes of old show up for this one.

Next, The “Red Hot” Motivations deliver the hand clapping "I’m On My Way.”  We have always appreciated this group’s music.  It is a golden nugget to see Jumping Chester on video.  The Motivations know how to have a good time, and they seem to be doing so on this clip.

Rev. F. C. Barnes & Rev. Janice Brown then take us down memory lane with “On Calvary,” “The Lord Will Fix It,” “When It Rains. . . It Pours,” and “Roughside of the Mountain.”  If you ever wanted to see Rev. Barnes and Rev. Brown as they were during their prime, then this DVD is for you.  This video captures the raw powerful vocals of Rev. Barnes and Rev. Brown when they were the hottest ticket in town.

The Legendary Swanee Quintet is the final group on Volume 1.  They began with “Wings of a Prayer,” followed by “Washed in the Blood,” “Alone,” “He Didn't Have To Do It,” “God Will Provide,” and “He's A True Friend.” Deacon Percy Griffin does lead duty on most of the songs.  But, on this video you will also see Big Red and Johnnie Jones.

“Little Johnny” takes over lead duty on "Wash In The Blood.”  For those who have saw The Swannee Quintet during the era of "Little Johnny Jones," you know that he was a great singer and highly animated.  Both are present on this video. “Little Johnny” continues with “Alone.”  Great singers can handle the ballads as easily as the upbeat drive songs.  And, Mr. Jones showcases his ability to do just that with "Alone.”  Deacon Griffin takes over and deliver an uplifting version of “He Didn’t Have To Do It.”  Yes, Big Red can be seen during his signature high step during this song.  Deacon Griffin then goes into a sermonette before delivering a heartfelt “God Will Provide.”  Their final song is the hard hitting “I Got A Friend.”  "Little Johnny Jones" join Deacon Griffin on the drive portion of the song.

Volume one closes with still shoots of the late Tommy Ellison, The Lumzys, and others.

The quality of the sound is good throughout the video. The lighting is okay. However, in obtaining this video you are acquiring it more for its historic value. 

If you like good gospel quartet music, and want a piece of gospel quartet music history, than you must add this video to your collection. 

We give this video a 9 out of 10.  To purchase your copy of this video click Gospel Parade.