Echoes from the Storefront: Cheryl Wills on Gospel, Grit, and Grace SPECIAL EDITION (https://cherylwills.com/)

Celebrating Women's History in Gospel Music: An Insightful Conversation

This episode of the Walk in Victory podcast, hosted by NaRon Tillman from Queens, New York, features a special edition focused on Women's History Month. NaRon shares his personal journey from music to pastoring and how a powerful figure, Cheryl Wills, played a pivotal role in his transition to speaking and podcasting. Cheryl Wills, a renowned figure in journalism and an author, discusses the motivation behind her book that pays homage to trailblazing women in gospel music. Highlighting the struggles and triumphs of these women, Wills emphasizes the power of songs and testimonies that resonate through generations, offering insights into her own familial connections to gospel music and the deep-seated issues of racism and sexism in the industry. The episode is a profound exploration of faith, perseverance, and the undeniable impact of women on gospel music, echoing the importance of recognizing and celebrating their contributions.

Time Line

00:00 Welcome to Walk in Victory Podcast: An Introduction
00:44 A Special Edition: Honoring Influential Figures
01:20 NaRon Tilman's Personal Journey and Musical Roots
04:36 Special Guest Cheryl Wills: A Legacy of Gospel and Empowerment
09:22 Exploring the Role of Women in Church and Gospel Music
17:13 Cheryl Wills: A Trailblazer in Journalism and Literature
22:22 The Shift to Highlighting Women's Contributions
23:26 Unsung Heroes of Gospel Music
24:13 The Forgotten Legacy and Determination to Remember
25:40 The Role of Women in Gospel Music and the Church
27:16 Addressing Racism and Sexism in the Gospel Music Industry
29:48 The Criteria for Choosing the 25 Influential Women
34:26 The Personal Connection and Impact of Gospel Music
34:52 The Journey from Church to News Anchor
39:38 A Tribute to the Power of Gospel Music and Its Women
42:41 Closing Remarks and Encouragement to Support the Book