Chicago Gospel Legend Doris Sykes Passes

GOSPELflava joins others around the country mourning the loss of Doris Sykes, lead singer for Pastor Maceo Woods’ Christian Tabernacle Concert Choir of Chicago, Illinois.  In a time when sopranos reigned supreme, Sykes had an inimitable style and held her own amongst the likes of Sarah Jordan Powell and  Hulah Gene Dunkin while serving as inspiration to newcomers like Lecresia Campbell, Felicia Coleman Evans and Tina Watson.

In addition to her unmistakable soprano, Sykes was well known for her avant garde style of choir directing and decorum.  She served as choir director for Willie Webb’s Southside Community Choir.  Her recordings with the Christian Tabernacle Concert Choir of The Name of Jesus, Through It All, He is my Everything, I’m Waiting On Jesus, Through It All, Fill My Cup, It Pays to Serve Jesus and Just a Closer Walk With Thee are classic treasures.