A gathering of data from the latest U.S. opinion polls shows common themes among Americans, including a stark partisan divide as well as concerns over the economy, health care, gun violence, and immigration, to name a few.
“We can agree to disagree, but if we can respect one another and understand we’re all human beings, then I think we have a chance, but if we continue to give each other these dark, cloudy titles, we’re going to be in real trouble in this country,” said Jevetta Steele. She and her sister Jearlyn Steele are performing as part of an ongoing concert series at St. Philips Lutheran Church in Fridley on Saturday, Sept. 27. The concert is titled: Choose Joy! Steele Sisters Gospel Concert. The sisters hope the concert will provide an opportunity for people to simply feel joyous.
“We’re going to try and celebrate community, love for one another, diversity, and all good things,” said Jevetta Steele.
Jevetta, Jearlyn and their three siblings J.D., Fred and Billy, make up the Steeles. They have been singing together since they were kids and performing their iconic Christmas show in Minneapolis for decades.
The show at St. Philips will feature gospel blues, gospel, jazz, and gospel funk. But Jearlyn says it goes beyond gospel. “Jevetta came up with an incredible list of songs we sang when we were very young and songs that are new today. I mean, I’m even doing some Al Green.”
Jearlyn, a longtime talk show host on WCCO Radio, says she’s been on stage since she was 5 years old, and even though there are moments the family doesn’t agree, they always support each other. “Knowing that your siblings are the ones who are standing by you, if you make a mistake, they are there to support you. That’s what being a family really means to me.”
The Steeles say it’s part of their fabric to use their talent to spread joy, especially when it is needed most. “Our parents taught us that community is everything. It’s third on the list, God, family, and community, and so we try to make sure we stay involved,” Jearlyn explained.
You can choose joy at the Steele Sisters Gospel Concert happening Saturday, Sept. 27, at St. Philip Lutheran Church, located at 6180 Highway 65 NE in Fridley. Learn more here.