The Gospel Beat: Kierra Sheard Transforms Tiny Desk Concert into a Church Service
By Jessica Renaldo // EEW Magazine Online
Credit: Michael Zamora/NPR
"I don’t want to make this Tiny Desk a Sunday morning service," said Kierra Sheard, the Dove and Stellar Award-winning Gospel star. Yet, her performance brought the spirit and fervor of the Black church to NPR's renowned Tiny Desk Concert series.
In celebration of Black Music Month, Tiny Desk is "giving the ladies their flowers" by featuring nine concerts from Black women artists, ranging from seasoned veterans to emerging talents. Among these performances, Sheard's stood out as she infused her set with heartfelt worship and praise.
The 36-year-old daughter of Karen Clark Sheard of the legendary Clark Sisters has a history of blending faith with music. Since releasing her debut album at 17, she has consistently delivered both contemporary and traditional Gospel music, capturing the hearts of those who may never attend a church service.
Sheard, alongside her brother, producer and drummer J. Drew Sheard II, grew up immersed in music ministry under the guidance of their mother and aunts, who are globally recognized as the Clark Sisters.
In the meeting prior to filming Tiny Desk recording, Sheard playfully asked, "Can I get at least one run?" According to NPR, the team enthusiastically replied, "Absolutely — more than one!"
Her performance featured her signature vocal runs and high soprano notes, showcased in tracks from her latest album, All Yours, and her extensive 20-year catalog.
Set List:
"You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet"
"You Don’t Know"
"Yes"
"Love Like Crazy"
"Praise Offering"
"It Keeps Happening"
"Indescribable"
"Something Has To Break"
"All Yours"
"Hang On"
"Miracles"
Musicians:
Kierra Sheard: lead vocals
Justin Brooks: keys, musical direction
J. Drew Sheard II: drums, musical direction
Aaron Draper: percussion
Tony Stanford: guitar
Alan “Snoop” Evans: bass
De’Sean Jones: saxophone
Frank Walton: trumpet
Zacharia El-magharbel: trombone
Marcus Johnson: vocals
Kevin Stewart: vocals
Johnyce Jackson: vocals
Jemika Ferguson: vocals
Tiny Desk Team:
Producers: Mitra I. Arthur, Bobby Carter
Director/Editor: Maia Stern
Audio Technical Director: Josephine Nyounai
Videographers: Maia Stern, Kara Frame, Joshua Bryant, Sofia Seidel
Audio Engineer: Josh Newell
Production Assistant: Alanté Serene
Photographer: Michael Zamora
Animation: Jackie Lay
Florist: Kelanda Edwards
Tiny Desk Team: Hazel Cills, Ashley Pointer
Executive Producer: Suraya Mohamed
Series Creators: Bob Boilen, Stephen Thompson
VP, Visuals and Music: Keith Jenkins
Black Music Month honors the influential figures who have shaped American music, celebrating their creativity and contributions. From African rhythms to the profound impacts of slavery and struggle, Black music has been a powerful voice of resilience and hope. This rich musical heritage, encompassing spirituals, gospel, blues, R&B, rock and roll, jazz, pop, rap, and hip-hop, has profoundly molded American culture and continues to resonate globally.
About The Gospel Beat:
"The Gospel Beat" is a dedicated space within EEW Magazine Online for music lovers and faithful followers alike, where the vibrant world of Gospel music takes center stage. As the latest addition to EEW Magazine, a leading voice for Black Christian women since 2007, this column offers a rhythmic blend of news, insights, and updates from the heart of the Gospel scene. From the latest releases and interviews to behind-the-scenes stories and personal accounts, "The Gospel Beat" connects you to the pulse of the genre and the artists who uplift spirits through their music. Celebrate faith, culture, and the power of Gospel with us as we bring you closer to the sounds and souls that inspire devotion across generations. Stay connected to remain informed about the latest developments in Gospel music and upcoming events.
