Cleavant Derricks (songwriter) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cleavant Derricks |
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| Born | May 13, 1909 in Chattanooga, Tennessee, U.S |
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| Died | April 14, 1977 (aged 67) in Nashville, Tennessee, U.S |
Reverend Cleavant Derricks (born May 13, 1909, in Chattanooga, Tennessee – died April 14, 1977) was an important American pastor (a church leader) and a talented choir director. He led choirs in many different Baptist churches.
He was also a gifted musician and songwriter, creating over 300 songs during his life. His music touched many people and continues to be loved today.
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Who Was Cleavant Derricks?
Cleavant Derricks was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee. From a young age, he showed a great passion for music and faith. He spent many years studying to become a church leader and a musician.
His Education and Early Career
Cleavant Derricks went to several schools to learn about music and religion. He studied at the Cadek Conservatory of Music in Chattanooga. He also attended A & I State University and the American Baptist Theological Seminary in Nashville. These studies helped him become the talented leader he was.
When he was just 21 years old, he took on a big role. He directed a gospel choir with more than 100 singers! This was at the Vermont Avenue Baptist Church in Washington, D.C. It showed how skilled he was at leading large groups in music.
Friends and Fellow Artists
Cleavant Derricks was friends with many famous artists. One of his well-known friends was the incredible singer Mahalia Jackson. Being connected to such influential people shows how respected he was in the music world.
Leading Churches and Building Communities
Throughout his life, Cleavant Derricks served as a pastor in many cities. He led churches in different parts of Tennessee, including Dayton, Knoxville, and Jackson. He also pastored churches in Beloit, Wisconsin, and Washington, D.C. Besides leading services, he helped build churches, showing his dedication to his community.
Cleavant Derricks' Amazing Talents
Cleavant Derricks had many talents. He was a pastor, a church builder, and a choir director. He was also a poet, a musician, and a very important composer. He wrote more than 300 songs and even created several songbooks.
His Famous Songs
Some of Cleavant Derricks' most famous songs are still sung and enjoyed by many people today. These include:
- "Just a Little Talk with Jesus"
- "When God Dipped His Love In My Heart"
- "We'll Soon Be Done With Troubles and Trials"
- "When He Blessed My Soul"
These songs are known for their powerful messages and beautiful melodies.
Honored for His Contributions
In 1984, Cleavant Derricks was given a special honor. He was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. This means his work and contributions to gospel music were recognized as truly outstanding.
His Family
Cleavant Derricks was also a father. He had twin sons, Cleavant Derricks and Clinton Derricks-Carroll. Both of his sons grew up to become actors, following their own creative paths.
