Leonn Meade: Guiding London Gospel Choir’s Global Legacy
The London Community Gospel Choir (LCGC), established in the early 1980s by Basil Meade and other youth leaders, has evolved into one of the city’s most in-demand vocal ensembles. Its core mission, articulated as “taking the Gospel out of the church and into the world,” aimed to bring the vibrant sound and positive message of gospel music to a broader audience, including bars, clubs, festivals, and concert venues previously less accessible. What began as a one-off concert in 1982 at Kensington Temple, intended to showcase the Black community’s gospel talent, remarkably transformed into a 44-year legacy.
Under the new leadership of Leonn Meade, Basil’s son, who took over as Creative and Musical Director, the LCGC continues its dynamic trajectory. Leonn’s connection to the choir is lifelong, having toured with his father since he was 18 months old and later becoming the choir’s drummer at 18. His current role involves curating diverse setlists, blending modern and traditional gospel with R’n’B, Caribbean influences, and pop arrangements, tailored to specific venues and audience demographics.
The choir’s extensive benefits are evident in its remarkable collaborations with global music icons such as Madonna, Nick Cave, Elton John, and Luther Vandross, with whom they shared a particularly memorable experience. They also provided backing vocals for “Circle of Life” on The Lion King OST and maintain a special relationship with Damon Albarn (Blur, Gorillaz). Their international reach includes demanding tours, like 20 shows across 20 Japanese cities in 21 days. To maintain its high standards and “keep things fresh,” LCGC holds auditions a couple of times a year, seeking individuals with strong singing, dancing, harmonizing, and performance skills, promising an “incredible experience” to those who succeed. The choir continues to schedule major performances, including a Christmas show at the Royal Albert Hall.
(Source: https://londonist.com/london/music/london-community-gospel-choir)
