Amazing Grace, 1972
1972 was marked by intense political shifts, significant diplomatic events, and remarkable societal progress. It was the year of the Watergate scandal, the historic Apollo 17 moon landing, and the introduction of Title IX and the Equal Rights Amendment. As a 7th grader at Nathan Hale Junior High, I remember listening to Aretha Franklin’s “Amazing Grace” on WABQ radio for the first time.
I had no idea that Aretha Franklin’s 1972 album of the same name would become such a historic song. “Amazing Grace,” recorded live at the New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles with Reverend James Cleveland and the Southern California Community Choir, sold over two million copies in the United States alone and achieved double platinum status. It also earned Aretha Franklin the 1973 Grammy Award for Best Soul Gospel Performance. To this day, it remains the best-selling album of Franklin’s career and the highest-selling live gospel music album ever.
“Amazing Grace” was remastered and re-released as a two-compact-disc set in 1999. A film about the album’s creation was released in 2018, the same year Aretha Franklin passed away.
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Evangelist Lois Swanson
In the heart of Macon, Georgia, a child named Johnnie Lois Swanson was born, destined to become a beacon of faith and resilience. Her journey led her to the bustling streets of Cleveland, Ohio, where she emerged as a formidable force of leadership and compassion. With an unwavering spirit, she sculpted a legacy that would echo through the corridors of time, touching the lives of her three children, 13 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. Each generation carried forth her wisdom, prayer, and boundless love, weaving a tapestry of excellence and devotion that would forever mark her family, community, and city.
Johnnie’s voice was a beacon of hope in Cleveland as a radio personality on stations like WABQ and WJMO. Her broadcasts, filled with encouragement and the gospel, reached countless homes, using the airwaves as her pulpit. Her passion for helping others led her to establish Helping Hands Ministry, which addressed both natural and spiritual needs. Whether feeding families or supporting those in crisis, Johnnie embodied the hands and feet of Jesus, becoming widely recognized as a Mistress of Ceremony for her grace, humor, and authority in hosting community events.
A graduate of Erma Lee Beauty School, Johnnie returned to teach hairstyling and later opened Swanson Beauty Salon, which she operated for over 45 years. The salon became a community landmark, known for beauty, fellowship, and excellence. Her legacy continues through her daughter, Pastor Georgette Scott, who keeps the salon open in her honor. Johnnie also hosted beloved programs like St. Clair Day and Father’s Day Programs, using music, ministry, and fellowship to unite generations and nourish the whole person, body, soul, and spirit.
Johnnie’s life was a testament to purpose, passion, and power, touching lives across cities and states. Her impact was measured not in years or titles, but in the countless lives she uplifted and the seeds she planted that continue to grow. Her memory remains a guiding light for her family and community, reminding us of the beauty of a life well lived. Her influence extended beyond her immediate circle, leaving a lasting imprint on many.
Through her ministry, business, and community service, Johnnie exemplified excellence and compassion. Her dedication to uplifting others and her unwavering faith inspired those around her to strive for greatness. As a respected and trusted leader, she is fondly remembered for her contributions to Cleveland and beyond. Her life serves as a powerful testament to the impact of faith, love, and service, continuing to inspire future generations to live with purpose and passion.
Rita, Tyson, and the Gospel Ladies
Following Rita Munns and Tyson’s singing engagement in Chicago, Rita and I had a conversation. Her voice was filled with the excitement of a long-held dream coming true. She began to tell me about the origins of “Rita, Tyson, and the Gospel Ladies.” Rita had always wanted to form a quartet of talented gospel singers who had temporarily stepped away from the spotlight. She envisioned a group that would perform occasionally, bringing their rich musical heritage back to the stage. She knew exactly who to approach: Shirle Perkins and her sister Sheila Warren. These women weren’t just singers; they had grown up close to Rita in the Union Hill Missionary Baptist Church Junior choir. As they grew older, they joined their mothers, the late Shirley Watters-LeSure and the late Sarah Munns, in the adult choir, honing their musical skills and deepening their devotion to gospel music.
Initially, Rita considered Shirle and Sheila for the Gospel Quartet, but she realized their schedules wouldn’t allow it because of their commitments to church and work. So, she sought out other young women who had distanced themselves from the Gospel Quartet genre. The first person she approached was Natalie Twymon, who eagerly accepted the invitation. Rita was pleasantly surprised by Natalie’s enthusiasm, especially since her father, Pastor Johnny Twymon, was the founder and lead singer of the Heavenly Wonders, one of Cleveland’s premier gospel groups. With Natalie’s inclusion, the foundation of the quartet was set. Rita’s vision was coming to life, and she felt a sense of fulfillment knowing she was bringing together talented singers who shared her passion for gospel music.
As the group began to form, Rita couldn’t help but think of her talented grandson, Tyson Benford. She often noticed him singing during Sunday morning services at Willing Workers Baptist Church. His voice carried the same spirit that had filled the church for generations. At home, they would sing together, sharing songs from gospel quartet programs by the MunnDora Spiritual Singers, Spiritual Believers, Fatboy Family and Friends, and the Fleshman Singers. Tyson’s natural talent and passion for gospel music made him an ideal addition to the group. Rita was confident that having him on board would not only improve their performances but also ensure the continuation of the gospel music legacy within her family.
As the group neared completion, they needed a name. With their first concert set for October 2025, Rita decided to name the group “Rita, Tyson, and the Gospel Ladies.” This name perfectly captured the essence of the group, blending the Gospel Ladies’ extensive experience with Tyson’s youthful energy and Rita’s guiding influence. Their debut performance was a resounding success, and they were subsequently invited to perform at a Gospel Extravaganza at Grace Tabernacle Baptist Church, presided over by the esteemed pastor, Rev. Wayne Dawson, of Cleveland. They also participated in a “Walk Through God’s Garden” banquet and a Mother’s Day concert. Recently, they were invited to perform at a college dinner event at a choir’s musical in Chicago, Illinois. Each performance further solidified their place in the gospel music community.
Despite their growing success, the members of the group remained humble and dedicated to their church. They continued to serve in various capacities, including singing in the choir, ushering, playing instruments, and taking on other significant responsibilities. For Rita, Tyson, and the Gospel Ladies, their music was more than just entertainment; it was a powerful tool for advancing God’s kingdom and sharing their faith with others. As Rita concluded her story, I was filled with pride and joy, knowing that her vision had not only united a talented group of singers but had also created a lasting legacy that would inspire future generations.