The gifted songwriter of the Platinum Gospel Hit “Every Praise” J. David Bratton brings his talents back home to his Alma Mater
Columbia, SC, August 29, 2023, Benedict College announces the appointment of J. David Bratton, a renowned and award-winning choir conductor, as the new Artist-in-Residence and Director of Choirs. In his role, Director Bratton will lead the Benedict College Concert Choir, the Benedict College Gospel Choir, the Jazz Chorus, and the Combined Choirs. He brings exceptional musical talent, a wealth of experience, and an unwavering passion for the choral arts at his alma mater.
Benedict College President and CEO, Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, noted, “This appointment comes at an opportune time as Benedict College is experiencing unprecedented levels of success in all areas. We are confident that his appointment will elevate all our choirs, especially our award-winning, internationally recognized Gospel Choir, to new artistic heights and foster a nurturing environment for aspiring singers to flourish.”
With a remarkable career spanning over four decades, Bratton has achieved an outstanding reputation within the global choral community, earning recognition for his brilliance and excellence. His numerous accolades include multiple Dove Award nominations and a Grammy, which he received as a musician with Hezekiah Walker and the Love Fellowship Crusade Choir. Notably, he is also celebrated as “The Teacher” in countries such as Italy, Hungary, and Romania for his dedication to nurturing vocal talent and creating harmonious masterpieces.
Having served as Choir Director at Virginia Union University, Bratton continued to sharpen his craft while shaping the minds and voices of future musical talent. He wrote the song “One Virginia,” performed at the Governor’s inauguration and under consideration as the new State Song of Virginia. His impactful tenures at The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, The Greater Allen Cathedral, and Zoe Ministries of New York further emphasized his commitment to nurturing the spiritual and musical growth of worship across America. Bratton holds an earned master’s in divinity from the Samuel Proctor School of Theology.
“Joining this vibrant community at Benedict College, my alma mater, as the Artist-in-Residence and Director of Choirs is a humbling and powerful experience,” expressed Bratton. “Together, we will strive for musical excellence and integrity, unlocking untapped potential and forging unforgettable moments through the unifying power of choral melodies.”
Bratton’s collaborations with esteemed artists such as Roberta Flack, Regina Belle, Jose Feliciano, and his contributions to Amy Schumer’s Hulu series “Life and Beth” have further showcased his remarkable talent. Moreover, his early musical development under the mentorship of Walter Hawkins, Andre Crouch, and James Cleveland enriched his versatile skill set.
As a multifaceted artist, Bratton’s contributions as a producer, writer, arranger, and songwriter have touched the hearts of countless listeners. His worldwide Platinum Gospel Song of the Decade from 2010–2020, “Every Praise,” famously popularized by Bishop Hezekiah Walker, stands as a global phenomenon, inspiring individuals of diverse backgrounds and beliefs.
“In his role as Director of Choirs, Bratton will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of vocal music at Benedict College. His artistic vision and transformative leadership promise to elevate all our choirs to new levels of excellence, enriching the cultural landscape not only within our college community but also beyond its boundaries,” states Dr. Leon Geter, Interim Dean, School of Communication, Arts, and Social Science.
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About Benedict College (benedict.edu)
Founded in 1870 by a woman, Bathsheba A. Benedict, Benedict College is a private co-educational liberal arts institution offering 26 competitive baccalaureate degree programs and two master’s degree programs. The Midlands HBCU welcomes students from all 46 counties in South Carolina, 30 states across America, and 26 countries around the world. The College also has a diverse faculty deeply engaged in teaching, research, and service.
Benedict College has been highly regarded and exceptionally ranked for its programs by several academic and traditional publications. Benedict College received the 2019 ACE/ Fidelity Investments Awards for Institutional Transformation and was named the HBCU of the Year by HBCU Digest. Benedict College was listed among the top half of ranked HBCUs in the 2022 edition of Best Colleges by US News and World Report.
Benedict College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate and master’s degrees. Five of the College’s degree programs hold national accreditation: Social Work Program, Environmental Health Science Program, Environmental Engineering, Studio Art, and the Tyrone Adam Burroughs School of Business and Entrepreneurship.
