Since 1967 · Detroit, Michigan

The heritage of
gospel music

One organization, one motto, one enduring purpose — to preserve the heritage of gospel music while raising the level of excellence in worship around the world.

The Founder

Rev. James Cleveland

The King of Gospel Music · 1931–1991

In 1967, Rev. James Cleveland called together friends from across the United States to share a single vision: to establish a venue where gospel music could be presented, taught, and preserved. Those chosen were leaders in their own right, gathered for their contributions to the music. From that gathering, the Gospel Music Workshop of America was born, carrying a national motto that still defines it — “Where Everybody Is Somebody.”

A singer, pianist, composer, arranger, choir director, and pastor, Cleveland is widely regarded as the father of the modern gospel choir. He mentored a generation of artists and left a catalog of songs the church still sings today. Since his passing in 1991, the workshop he founded has only grown — now one of the largest artistic organizations of its kind in the world, reaching from the United States to Asia.

Rev. James Cleveland Add archival portrait
From The Archives

Through The Years

Six decades of gospel history. As the archive is gathered, the story of the workshop’s early days will live here.

The FoundingDetroit · 1967
First Convention1968
Rev. ClevelandAt the piano
The Mass ChoirEarly years
The PioneersFounding leaders
Decades of PraiseThrough the years
Our Mission

Preserve & elevate

To preserve the heritage of gospel music in America while providing a forum for the development of excellence in its presentation — and to increase opportunities for the education and preservation of gospel music throughout the world.

Our Vision

Prepare the future

To continue the heritage of gospel music by academically preparing gospel artists for the future, to raise the level of excellence in the worship experience, and to provide a platform where all forms of gospel music can matriculate.

The Line of Leadership

Passing the mantle

From a founder’s vision to a global movement, the workshop has been carried forward by those devoted to the music and the mission.

Bishop Albert L. Jamison, Sr., Chairman
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Rev. James Cleveland

Founder & President. Established the GMWA in 1967 in Detroit and led it until his passing in 1991.

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Edward M. Smith

Longtime business manager to Rev. Cleveland and executive director of the workshop, a builder who helped bridge gospel into the wider music industry.

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Bishop Albert L. Jamison, Sr.

Voted Chairman of the Board of Directors in March 1996 after serving since 1970. He has carried the workshop to new global heights.

A Movement Across the Map

Where the workshop has gathered

Every summer, delegates assemble in a new city to worship, teach, and record. A few of the recent homecomings:

Host cities of the GMWA Convention
  • 2026Greensboro, NC · 59th
  • 2025Montgomery, AL
  • 2024Memphis, TN
  • 2023Greensboro, NC
  • 2022Atlanta, GA
  • 2019Washington, DC
  • 2017Atlanta, GA · 50th
  • 2015New Orleans, LA
  • 2002Detroit, MI
  • 1985New York City, NY
  • 1972Los Angeles, CA
  • 1968Detroit, MI · 1st
Meet Our Chairman →