For many in Philadelphia, the holiday season truly doesn’t start until the sounds of Gospel music fill Verizon Hall at the annual A Soulful Christmas. This joyful event led by Creator and Director Dr. J. Donald Dumpson brings together communities and community-based choirs, great pastors across Philadelphia, praise dancers, and many instrumental artists in a celebration of worship and music.
To get an inside look at the event, we spoke with Tameka Ferebee, who has participated in A Soulful Christmas as a vocalist, conductor, and organist for over 7 years.
How did you first become involved in A Soulful Christmas?
I was specifically sought out by Dr. Donald Dumpson and asked to join the band on Hammond organ. And since then I have participated in the event for 7 years.
Tameka with Dr. J. Donald Dumpson at intermission (left) and with other members of the band (right).
What is the experience like for a performer?
In addition to being an organist, I've had the pleasure of also being a conductor & vocalist. As a vocalist this year, I spent the days prior to the performance on vocal rest and taking the day-of off from teaching Music for grades K-8 at Cornerstone Christian Academy. I spent a great deal of time intricately studying every single detail of the music and turning some other performing engagements down in order to be my very best as a frontline singer.
What is your favorite part of A Soulful Christmas?
Without question, the “Finale of Lights” is a highlight of A Soulful Christmas. “Silent Night” performed with over 3,000 lights is such a sight to behold.
Verizon Hall is filled with light as each audience member is given a small flashlight to shine during a “Silent Night” sing-a-long. Lights are generously sponsored by PECO.
How would you convince someone thinking about seeing A Soulful Christmas to attend?
I would tell someone that A Soulful Christmas is one of the best Gospel events in Philadelphia, and that cannot be put into words. You just have to experience it yourself! The event sells out every year so plan to get your ticket early for 2023.
Kurt Carr performing as the honoree at A Soulful Christmas 2022.
Each year, A Soulful Christmas features an honoree who is often a legend in the Gospel music world. The 2022 event honored Kurt Carr, who has delivered some of the most recognized praise songs in recent history, including “In The Sanctuary,” “The Presence of the Lord Is Here,” “I Almost Let Go,” “I Never Lost My Praise,” and “God Great God, Be Blessed, For Every Mountain.” Past nominees include Kathy Taylor, Dr. Norman Hutchins, Dottie Peoples, Lady Tramaine Hawkins, Richard Smallwood, Pastor Shirley Caesar, the late Edwin Hawkins, and the late Reverend Dr. Veroguia Nix and Professor Clayton White.
Tameka, what do you hope audiences get out of A Soulful Christmas?
The overwhelming presence of God, a word of encouragement and a feeling of joy, hope, love and peace.
And finally, why is A Soulful Christmas so special to you?
I am honored to participate and unite with so many great singers and musicians from Philly to make this great event a success. Every time I perform in Verizon Hall, I’m reminded of my Elementary School teacher Ms. Shast. She took me to my first concert at the Academy of Music and I said to myself on that trip “I’m gonna be up there one day!.” And now at A Soulful Christmas – I’ve made it! I look forward to the call from Dr. Dumpson to participate in this show, and am so honored every time. I will always make myself available.
Also this year I was honored to be on the flyer! That’s me with the big brown hair on the left side sitting with the band in the photo above!!
Want to experience A Soulful Christmas for yourself? Tune in on Christmas Day to WURD 96.1 FM at 8AM, and Classix 107.9 and Praise Philly 107.9 HD2 at 7PM for a special radio broadcast presentation of A Soulful Christmas. Then keep an eye out for the 2024 event date and honoree when they are announced next fall.