Milton Brunson facts for kids

Milton R. Brunson (born June 28, 1929 – died April 1, 1997) was an American gospel musician. He was also a pastor and music director at Christ Tabernacle Baptist Church in Chicago, Illinois.

Brunson released his first music album, Available to You, in 1988. The main song from this album became a very popular gospel tune. He won a Grammy Award for his gospel choir music. He was also nominated for two other Grammy Awards. Many of his albums appeared on the Billboard Gospel Albums chart. Some even charted after he passed away. He also received nominations for the Soul Train Music Awards.

Milton Brunson's Life Story

Early Life and Education

Milton Brunson was born on June 28, 1929, in Chicago, Illinois. His father worked at a stockyard. His mother taught music and religion. After finishing McKinley High School, Milton decided to pursue a career in music. He learned from famous musicians like Thomas A. Dorsey, Mahalia Jackson, and Robert Johnson. This helped him improve his musical skills. In 1964, he became an ordained minister. He then started his own church, Christ Tabernacle Baptist Church, in Chicago. He served as its pastor and music director.

Music Career and Achievements

Milton Brunson's music career began in 1947 when he was 18 years old. He learned a lot from his mentors, Thomas A. Dorsey, Mahalia Jackson, and Robert Johnson. After this training, he formed a music group called the Thompson Community Singers. People often called them "The Tommies."

The Tommies appeared on many episodes of the Jubilee Showcase TV show. They performed at big events like the Chicago Gospel Music Festival in Grant Park. They also played at famous venues such as the Apollo Theater and Madison Square Garden in New York City. Their fame grew, allowing them to perform in countries like England and Italy.

Milton Brunson and the Thompson Community Singers released 22 music albums. Some of these albums were released after his death. Ten of their albums made it onto the Billboard Billboard Gospel Albums chart. Five of those albums even reached the number one spot! They received many awards and honors. They were nominated for the Best Gospel Album, Group or Choir at the 1988 Soul Train Music Awards. They also received a nomination for Best Gospel Album at the 1993 Soul Train Music Awards. In addition, they won a Grammy Award for Best Gospel Choir or Chorus Album. This award was given at the 37th Annual Grammy Awards. They were nominated for two other Grammy Awards as well. Some well-known singers, like Ricky Dillard and Jessy Dixon, were once members of the Thompson Community Singers.

Milton Brunson's Passing

Milton Brunson passed away at his home in Chicago, Illinois, on April 1, 1997. He is buried at Oakridge Cemetery in Hillside, Illinois.

Milton Brunson's Family Life

Milton Brunson was married to Joann Brunson. They had three children together. Their two daughters were named Donna Louise and Lavitia. They also had a son named Kevin.

Milton Brunson's Legacy

Milton Brunson's last album, When You Get High on Jesus, Oh My God, was released in 1997. It came out after he had passed away. A post office branch and a school in Austin, Illinois, are named after him. Austin is a neighborhood on Chicago's West Side.

Milton Brunson's Albums