Malcolm Williams is the director of Malcolm Williams and Great Faith a Chicago-based gospel group with the remarkable ability to communicate the Word of God through music; bringing Biblical relevance and a keen understanding of human struggles and triumphs to its songs and performances.
Williams began his gospel music career when he was named director of the First Corinthian Missionary Baptist Church sixty-member Junior Choir at the early age of six in North Chicago, Illinois. Building upon such humble but authentic beginnings, Williams has composed more than three hundred songs to date, some of which have been embraced by top gospel artists including Beverly Crawford, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Angela Spivey, Dottie Peoples, and the Gospel Music Workshop of America Mass Choir to name a few.
In April of 1994, the Voices of Great Faith were organized. The group earned a great deal of early exposure as Malcolm toured and performed alongside the Stellar Award Winning Mark Hubbard and The United Voices for Christ. As a result of victories in prestigious gospel competitions sponsored by Wrigley and McDonald’s, as well as being awarded the Gospel Radio 1390 of Chicago’s “Choir of the Year” Award, Great Faith was strongly encouraged to record their first album. In 1998, Great Faith birthed its first album entitled “Gotta Make It”. Through the success of this album, Great Faith was able to sustain its place in gospel music four years later, with its second album release, “Renew Me.”
Malcolm Williams & Great Faith’s third release, “Walking in My Destiny” (2006), was a watershed movement. The album’s success secured the group’s place alongside gospel music’s trendsetters. The album, and its songs, were embraced by churches and choirs across the nation- earning a Stellar Award nomination. On the strength of Walking in My Destiny, Malcolm Williams & Great Faith continued to reach new heights in the gospel music industry, appearing on BET’s “Bobby Jones Gospel” television Show.
The group’s fourth release, “In Your Glory,” was the first release for Williams’ Independent Label “Malcolm James Music imprint.” The 16-track project earned the group an honorable four Stellar nominations.
After the release of a studio project, notable choirs across the nation began to sing one of the group’s most popular selections, “The Blood Still Works” from an earlier release. The song was featured at church conventions, conferences, and services; becoming a Classic Gospel selection that is still ministered today, and undoubtedly for years to come. Malcolm Williams & Great Faith’s current, and sixth release “My Plea” features fourteen all new tracks that continue in the legacy and style that is Great Faith. Williams has again created a body of work that includes the word of God and inspirational messages their fans have grown to love them for.
With Malcolm being affectionately known as “the Church boy of Gospel,” and Great Faith as “what’s now in music for the church,” they continue to develop a multitude of fans and supporters. The Lord has destined Malcolm Williams & Great Faith to continue the spirit and tradition of gospel music while offering an unbelievable praise and worship experience to audiences around the world.
Malcolm was appointed as Co-Chairperson of the Mass Choir of GMWA in 2024.
Dr. Lou Della Evans-Reid, is a CHICAGO LIVING LEGEND. She continues to be a monumental figure in Chicago’s gospel scene. Serving as a music adviser at First Church of Deliverance, she leads the choir with a powerful presence, despite her petite stature. Her leadership is more than musical; it’s a spiritual connection, where she believes God directs her, and she directs the choir.
LouDella Evans-Reid’s influence spans decades. She was a founding member of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church in 1950, which was led by her brother, Reverend Clay Evans. Under her direction as music leader from 1963 to 2000, the church became an epicenter for gospel music and civil rights activism. Fellowship played a significant role in the civil rights movement, often welcoming influential leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Reverend Jesse Jackson. Even after retiring, she remains deeply involved in the gospel community, working with multiple choirs and organizations, including the advocacy group Gospel Music According to Chicago (GMAC).
Her career has touched generations of gospel musicians and congregations. Her leadership in gospel music has extended beyond Chicago, inspiring musicians and choir directors worldwide. Her work is regarded as a bridge between past and present, continuing the oral traditions of gospel music that are deeply rooted in African American history. Gospel music, which evolved from African spirituals and was born out of struggle, is a source of hope and salvation for the community, a sentiment Evans-Reid emphasizes in her teachings and performances.
LouDella Evans-Reid’s legacy is not just one of musical achievement but of spiritual leadership. She believes that singing together brings salvation and that the words of gospel songs offer hope to those in need. Her performances are powerful reminders of the role of gospel music in uplifting and uniting communities. Her family, including her brother, Reverend Clay Evans, is deeply embedded in Chicago’s gospel history, with Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church remaining a cornerstone of the city’s religious and cultural landscape.
Even in retirement, her home is filled with awards and letters from influential figures, including a letter from Barack and Michelle Obama for her 80th birthday. Her story, along with her contributions to gospel music and civil rights, has left an indelible mark on Chicago’s Black community. Through her leadership and dedication, Lou Della Evans-Reid continues to inspire and bring hope to those who hear her music.
“Traditional gospel music penetrates the depth of the heart bringing forth inspiration and a hope that weaves through the mind, body and soul.”
Dennis E. Cole
President, Gospel Announcers Guild-GMWA
Administrator, Stellar Awards-SAGMA
The National Association of Gospel Radio (NAGR) has announced the appointment of Dennis Cole as the National Director of State Directors.
In this role, he will work along with the National President and Regional Co-Chairs to oversee and coordinate the activities of state directors across the country, aiming to enhance the reach and influence of gospel radio stations nationwide. This strategic move is expected to strengthen the organization’s efforts in promoting gospel radio and fostering community engagement through radio broadcasting.
Dennis Cole brings decades and a wealth of experience to the position, with a background in radio promotions, radio broadcasting and a deep commitment to gospel music. His leadership is anticipated to drive new initiatives, support local stations, and facilitate collaboration among state directors to achieve the association’s goals. This appointment marks a significant step for NAGR in its mission to support and expand the presence of gospel radio.
Dennis’ extensive experience and passion for gospel music make him the perfect fit for helping with state directors. Under his guidance, the organization will continue to grow and positively impact communities across the nation.
Congratulationd to Dennis Cole on this new chapter in his career.
