The 14th Annual McDonald’s Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour Returns Featuring 20 Top Artists for the Largest Concert Series in Its History
Celebrating the Gospel Legacies of Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, and Detroit
CHICAGO, September 14, 2020: Amid challenging times, McDonald’s is taking its tour virtual and inviting gospel music lovers nationwide to contribute to local Ronald McDonald House Charities chapters.
The celebrated Kirk Franklin and Fred Hammond are among the 17 gospel artists set to honor the rich gospel music traditions from Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, and Detroit in this year’s virtual concert series and fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House Charities® called Gospel City Playlists.
McDonald’s USA, through its Black & Positively Golden initiative, proudly announces the virtual return of its 14th Annual Inspiration Celebration® Gospel Tour. Benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC®), this four-part concert series, themed “Gospel City Playlists,” launches on September 27 and continues weekly (every Sunday) until October 18, streaming on BET.com and the BET Network YouTube channel at 8 p.m. EST / 7 p.m. CST.
This year’s theme will showcase the vibrant gospel heritage of Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, and Detroit, reigniting the ongoing debate over which U.S. city produces the finest gospel music. Legendary and award-winning artists such as Kirk Franklin, Marvin Sapp, Fred Hammond, The Clark Sisters, Kierra Sheard, Smokie Norful, and William Murphy will perform beloved fan favorites while inviting viewers to engage in lighthearted online discussions about their city’s biggest gospel hits.
“I am excited to join this diverse lineup of talented artists who, like me, are dedicated to carrying on the enduring traditions of gospel music,” said Kirk Franklin, an acclaimed gospel music icon, choir director, singer, songwriter, and author. “McDonald’s is doing a fantastic job presenting this premier tour for the community through its Black & Positively Golden initiative. My fellow artists and I hope fans worldwide will be inspired to make a difference during these challenging times and encouraged to give back to families in need through Ronald McDonald House Charities.”
Franklin will participate in the tour for the third time, while renowned singer, songwriter, and producer Donald Lawrence returns as co-producer and music supervisor. Award-winning recording artist and syndicated radio host Lonnie Hunter will once again serve as the event’s host.
The full list of artists performing this year includes:
– Anita Wilson
– Byron Cage
– Canton Jones
– Donald Lawrence & Company
– Fred Hammond
– Jekalyn Carr
– Jonathan McReynolds
– Karen Clark Sheard
– Kierra Sheard
– Kirk Franklin
– Le’Andria Johnson
– Marvin Sapp
– Myron Butler
– Ricky Dillard
– Smokie Norful
– Tasha Page-Lockhart
– The Clark Sisters
– Todd Dulaney
– VaShawn Mitchell
– William Murphy
“Every year, our Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour is one of the most anticipated community events. Recognizing its significance and rich legacy, we are excited to bring the tour to life virtually, which also allows us to reach a broader audience at a time when these uplifting messages are needed most,” said Harry Smith, McDonald’s Owner/Operator. “As we continue to navigate these challenging times, we look forward to connecting people from across the country through this safe and inspiring virtual concert series.”
In addition to providing uplifting music to fans nationwide, the concert series will continue to raise funds to support families served by RMHC chapters in the four featured cities. Viewers are encouraged to donate to the local chapters now through October 18.
As a first for the tour, a virtual red carpet lounge hosted by social media comedian Not Karlton Banks will precede each show. Fans are invited to join Karlton’s virtual red carpet show via Instagram Live approximately 20 minutes before each concert to hear from their favorite artists.
This signature concert series will highlight gospel music playlists from each of the four cities on the following dates:
– September 27 – Chicago, IL
– October 4 – Detroit, MI
– October 11 – Atlanta, GA
– October 18 – Dallas, TX
The McDonald’s Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour is an extension of the company’s Black & Positively Golden campaign, an initiative designed to uplift communities and inspire excellence. Visit www.blackandpositivelygolden.com to learn more. Follow @WeAreGolden on Instagram for tour updates and join the conversation using #blackandpositivelygolden.
About Black & Positively Golden
Launched in 2019, McDonald’s Black & Positively Golden movement aims to uplift communities and highlight the excellence of the Black community through empowerment, education, and entrepreneurship. It showcases positivity and focuses on narratives of truth, power, and pride. The campaign is a natural extension of the brand’s long-standing commitment to the African American community.
About McDonald’s USA
McDonald’s serves a variety of menu items made from quality ingredients to over 25 million customers daily. Ninety-five percent of McDonald’s 14,000 U.S. locations are independently owned and operated by entrepreneurs. For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com or follow us on Instagram at @WeAreGolden and Facebook at www.facebook.com/mcdonalds. To learn more about the Black & Positively Golden initiative, visit www.mcdonalds.com.
About Ronald McDonald House Charities
Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC®) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that creates, finds, and supports programs that directly enhance the health and well-being of children and their families. With a global network of over 260 chapters in 65 countries and regions, RMHC enables, facilitates, and supports family-centered care through three core programs: Ronald McDonald House®, Ronald McDonald Family Room®, and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile®. RMHC programs assist families with sick or injured children to remain close to major healthcare facilities, ensuring they receive the necessary medical care while being fully supported and actively involved in their child’s treatment. For more information, visit rmhc.org.
