While fans raved over R&B staples Fantasia and Joe‘s tribute performances to recent BMI honoree Mariah Carey, they were certainly not the only two bringing the house down in homage to the pop icon.
Indeed, Karen Clark Sheard, one/fourth of legendary gospel group The Clark Sisters, was on hand to deliver a fiery tribute to Carey. And, as fans know, both singers have been quite vocal of their influence on each other – namely Mariah who has long cited Sheard as an influence.
Now, in recently lifted footage, see Karen tackle Mariah’s 1993 hit ‘Anytime You Need A Friend’ from the weekend’s showing. Taking it to church like only she can:
Much like Kim Burrell, anybody who knows gospel and its influence on R&B include Karen Clark Sheard in the list of mentions. The pure denotation of vocal beast, Sheard handled ‘Friend’ with ease while still delivering those soaring melismas that have made her famous for over 40 years.
If you missed church today, join us and Anita Baker as we go in with Miss Sheard!