The Kingdom Choir
British gospel choir
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The Kingdom Choir is a British gospel choir based in London. It was founded by choir conductor and workshop leader Karen Gibson.[1][2] After performing for more than 20 years, the choir became world-famous after being invited to perform at the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.[1][3] On 19 May 2018, they sang a gospel version of "Stand by Me" by Ben E. King. The conductor, Gibson, was described by the British press as "Britain's godmother of gospel".[4] Their performance of the song topped the U.S. Hot Gospel Songs chart.[5] After the performance, the choir signed a record deal with Sony Music.[5]
On 26 October 2018, the choir released its debut album, Stand by Me, subtitled 15 Songs of Love and Inspiration. It contains 14 cover performances and one original piece called "Chases".[6]
The choir was selected to perform "The Star-Spangled Banner" before the first game of the 2019 MLB London Series in June 2019.[7]
In February 2023, they accompanied Marco Mengoni in his cover of "Let It Be", during the 73rd Sanremo Music Festival in Italy.[8]
In May 2023, a group comprising members of the Kingdom Choir performed (as the Ascension Choir) at the Coronation of Charles III and Camilla, where they sang the a capella work "Alleluia (O Sing Praises)" [9] composed for the event by Debbie Wiseman.[10][11]
In November 2023, a celebration concert, to mark 30 years of the choir and a new single entitled "Let It Rain", is held in the Queen Elizabeth Hall. "Let It Rain" is published and released by Luco Music Group.[12][13]
Discography
Albums
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Stand by Me
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Singles
- 2018: "Stand by Me"
- 2023: "Not Giving Up"[14]