Tye Tribbett standing out in London

He's fresh, funky and has bags of energy...

We're talking about US Gospel artist, Tye Tribbett who flew into the UK to perform at a special concert marking Bishop John Francis' 25th year in ministry. Maya Simeon checked out the event and caught up with him backstage.

Event review: ‘Celebration Concert’ featuring Tye Tribbett @ Westminster’s Central Hall, London (June 2008)

To celebrate 25 years of Bishop John Francis being in ministry, a spectrum of events during June were organised, including this concert. The elegant Westminster Central Hall was the location where hundreds of people, young and old, gathered on this warm midsummer’s evening for an event of great Gospel music.

Opening up the evening’s proceedings was a special presentation by Bishop’s two teenage daughters, Juanita and Teleisa Francis, who performed a powerful warfare dance routine, much to the delight of their father and the crowd. Muyiwa and Riversongz delivered their distinct brand of Pop/Rock praise saturated with African rhythm and showcased tracks from the recent album, Declaring His Love, plus all the favourites while insisting on audience participation. Muyiwa then flipped the script and utilised his radio presenting skills to host the remainder of the show, introducing Byron Cage who brought his flavour of traditional American Gospel, ministering much-loved classics such as ‘I Will Bless the Lord’ and ‘The Presence of The Lord’. The prince of praise took the party to the next level with his passionate songs and fancy footwork.

This set the scene for headliners Tye Tribbet and Greater Anointing to seal the deal. Welcomed by an intensely excited crowd (some of whom had dressed up in school uniforms and donned other Tye-inspired outfits in tribute), this phenomenal collective wasted no time and begun with the defiant I Want It All Back, before proceeding to deliver their fervent catalogue of empowering warfare praise and adoring worship, including many from his groundbreaking latest album. As expected, Tye and the gang’s eccentric energy was off the wall (literally!) causing a commotion; the crowd having no choice but to get involved in the contagious action, most being more than happy to oblige! Everyone was shucking out, especially Bishop Francis!

To describe the performance as electrifying is an understatement, yet by no means was it devoid of depth. Ever the truth-teller, Tye commanded a significant pause, communicating the serious message of the necessity for Christians to take a stand in a world full of compromise and live in righteousness. It was a completely exhilarating night in every way and a celebration it most definitely was.

• “Tye” is short for Tyrone, which is actually his middle name; his official first name is Thomas.
• He was born in New Jersey and is the son of two preachers.
• Tye has been married to wife Shanté for 10 years and together they have 2 children.
• He knew the notes on the keyboard before he learnt his ABCs.
• Tye founded gospel choir, Greater Anointing in 1996, consisting of family and friends whose hearts were set on praising God.
• Their first official recording, ‘Let Go, Let God’ appeared on the Prince of Egypt movie soundtrack in 1998.
• The Victory Live! album earned them 2 Stellar Awards and three Grammy nominations, while the DVD has sold more than 40,000 copies.
• Last year Tye co-hosted the 22nd Stellar Awards ceremony, along with Kirk Franklin and Mary Mary.
• Shoes are his favourite item of clothing.
• Tye loves watching Eddie Murphy movies, especially Coming To America.

M: How would you advise young people to stand out?