Daughter of U.S. Soul Singer Presents Gospel Program in Western Australia

By Bob Marovich

Gospel music has been an international phenomenon for more than sixty years, enjoyed in nearly every corner of the world.

This includes Western Australia, where the Joyful Noise Gospel Choir will present Gospel Music @ the Rocks #2.  The program (above) will take place November 7, 2015, at the Quarry Amphitheater in City Beach, a beautiful suburb of Perth.  I can’t think of a more lovely place to be than Perth in November, when Australia will be reveling in late springtime weather.

Incidentally, music runs in the DNA for event producer Jade-Lori Haggis (below, left).  Her father, Clarence “Junior” Lewis, is legendary soul singer C. L. Blast (right) who recorded for major indie labels Atlantic and Stax Records.  Jade-Lori (as Jade Crompton) will lend her own exceptional vocal talents to the music program, in addition to organizing the event.

Others who will appear on the program include Rose Parker, a major contributor to the Perth area gospel and blues and folk scene; NATANI, a vocal trio from New Zealand; and musicians Peter Evans (drums), Roy Martinez (bass), Trevor Jalla (guitar), and Jonno Warwick (keys).  Assisting producer-director Jade are Erling Debeer, Marion Dixon, and Garreth Haggis.  Tim Long from 98five FM will be MC.

For the record, many in the family are musically gifted.  Jade’s mom, Audrey Crompton, and aunts Michelle and Carrol Hall, all immigrated from South Africa to Western Australia in 1986 during apartheid.  They have been active as gospel singers, choir directors, and musicians in South Africa and Western Australia for decades.

Best wishes to Jade-Lori Haggis, her team, and the Joyful Noise Gospel Choir for a successful event!