Gospel Promoter
Die Rolle von Johnny Meyers in Mahalia Jacksons Karriere
Johnny Meyers played a crucial role in launching Mahalia Jackson's career as a nationally renowned gospel singer. As an influential gospel promoter in New York City in the 1940s, Meyers recognized Mahalia's extraordinary talent and helped her connect with Apollo Records, which led to her breakthrough. Here are Meyers' most significant contributions to Mahalia's career:
Discovery and first performances in New York
Meyers first heard Mahalia at a concert in Detroit and was immediately impressed by her singing. He invited her to New York, where she appeared in one of his gospel programs at the Golden Gate Auditorium in January 1946. This marked Mahalia's debut in New York and brought her valuable exposure in the city's gospel scene.
Negotiation of the Apollo Records contract
Meyers recognized Mahalia's commercial potential and played a key role in securing her record deal with Apollo Records. He used his connections in the music industry to introduce Mahalia Jackson to Bess Berman, the head of Apollo Records. This contract proved crucial to Mahalia's career, as it led to her first hit single, “Move On Up a Little Higher,” in 1948, which became a million-seller and established her national fame.
Creation of a platform for gospel singers
Meyers established the Golden Gate Auditorium in Harlem as an important venue for gospel concerts, creating a platform for up-and-coming artists such as Mahalia. His programs were known for their energetic atmosphere and helped bring gospel music to a wider audience. Meyers featured Mahalia in several of his Golden Gate concerts, cementing her reputation as the “Gospel Songbird of the Nation.”
Combining live performances, radio, and record recordings
Meyers was a pioneer in linking live performances, radio appearances, and record releases for gospel singers. He recognized the synergistic effects of these media and used them to promote the careers of the artists he promoted. Mahalia's performances in Myers' Golden Gate concerts led to her radio debut in New York and helped boost her popularity, which in turn attracted the interest of Apollo Records.
Influence on the commercial development of gospel
Meyers played an important role in the commercialization of gospel music in the 1940s. His innovative marketing strategies and understanding of the entertainment industry paved the way for later gospel promoters such as Joe Bostic, who brought Mahalia to Carnegie Hall.