Seated at a piano on the stage of Morgan State University’s Recital Hall, gospel singer Anthony Brown of Anthony Brown & group therAPy, was asked what advice he would give to students faced with student debt and other challenges. The famous Morgan alumnus responded by playing the piano as he sang:
You did not create me to worry
You did not create me to fear
But You created me to worship – daily
So Ima leave it all right here
I will put my trust in You
The words were from the group’s hit ballad, “Trust In You,” one of the singles on the group’s album, “A Long Way From Sunday.” The empowering moment was among the many that took place inside the Recital Hall on Thursday, September 19. 2019 in the school’s Murphy Fine Arts Center located at 2201 Argonne Drive in Baltimore.
Anthony Brown & group therAPy were honored by the school on the anniversary of the their first Billboard No. 1 hit “Worth.” Brown was surprised with a beautiful framed award in recognition of over 250 million streams of their music on the anniversary of “Worth,” the group’s first Billboard No. 1 hit.
Brown’s honor at Morgan came the same week the group hit No. 1 again with their current radio smash, “Blessings on Blessings.” The event was attended by several members of Brown’s family, members of First Baptist Church of Glenarden in Landover, Maryland, where he serves as Worship Leader, as well as friends, Morgan faculty and students, along with other supporters and fans.
“It feels incredible to be back here at Morgan State,” said Brown who is also a graduate of the Baltimore School For the Arts. “To be here to celebrate both past and present successes is amazing.”
Brown also spoke passionately about the city.
“The news has put such a negative spin on Baltimore,” said Brown, who was also presented with a letter sent on behalf Mayor Bernard C. “Jack” Young. “I am the proud product of a Baltimore school and university. There are great things happening in Baltimore City. No matter what people say, I am blessed to be from this place.”
Noting the impact that former Morgan State University Choir Director, the late Dr. Nathan M. Carter, and current Director Dr. Eric Conway had on his life, Brown added, “Dr. Carter instilled so much in me as a student, as well as Dr. Conaway who now heads the Morgan Choir. All of the frustration, hard work and time I spent here paid off. I am sending the fruits of it today.”
In addition to directing the choir, Dr. Conway serves as Chairperson of Morgan’s Fine Arts Department.
“Anthony is the real deal,” said Dr. Conway. “When he sings, one hears the sincerity of his conviction. His success is also due to God’s anointing and inspiration, which is omnipresent in his composition. I am especially proud to welcome Anthony home. Welcome.”
The event was hosted by Radio One midday personality and gospel artist, Maurette Brown Clark.
“I am completely excited that Anthony has received blessings on blessings on blessings,” said Brown Clark. “I am amazing at the doors God has opened for him. We in the music community celebrate you.”
Brown began playing the piano at three-years-old. He has gone on to hone and elevate his gifts to become an award-winning music influencer and gifted songwriter. He swept the 2016 Stellar Awards, walking away with an unprecedented 10 trophies— the most won by any artist in a single year.
“I went into 2019 only saying I am only speaking blessings this year,” said Brown referring to the group being honored and their hit Blessings on Blessings. “I have watched God blow my mind with blessings all year long. It’s not just a song— it’s declarations.
“I will never forget this moment. I will write a song about it later. Sometimes we don’t share our appreciation until it’s too late. I am glad I got to share my appreciation and love. This is a huge moment for me.”
To see a video clip of Brown receiving his surprise award, visit: www.baltimoretimes-online.com