Sara Jordan Powell facts for kids

Sara Jordan Powell (October 6, 1938 – November 16, 2025) was a talented American gospel musician. She was known for her powerful voice and inspiring songs. Her music touched many people and was even performed at the White House for several United States presidents.

Her first popular songs, "Touch Somebody's Life" and "When Jesus Comes," were released in 1972. These songs were played often on the radio. She released her first album, also called Touch Somebody's Life, in 1975. This album was produced by the famous gospel artist James Cleveland. Sara Jordan Powell continued to release many successful albums throughout her career.

Early Life and Musical Journey

Sara Jordan Powell was born in Houston, Texas, on October 6, 1938. Her father was a minister, and her mother took care of their large family. Sara was the third of 12 children. She started singing at a very young age, showing her musical talent early on.

She went to Texas Southern University and earned a degree in English. She also studied drama and history. After college, she moved to Chicago, Illinois. There, she worked with and learned from Thomas A. Dorsey, who is often called the "Father of Gospel Music."

While in Chicago, Sara joined the Sallie Martin Singers, a well-known gospel group. Later, she sang with another group called the Voices of Melody. After her father became ill, she returned to Houston with her husband. She became a teacher there and was encouraged to sing at a school event. This led to her becoming a popular local singer.

A Career in Gospel Music

In 1971, the famous gospel artist James Cleveland heard Sara sing in Los Angeles, California. He was very impressed and encouraged her to record her own music. Sara had not thought about recording before, but she took his advice.

Her first songs, "Touch Somebody's Life" and "When Jesus Comes," became very popular in 1972. They received a lot of radio play. Her debut album, Touch Somebody's Life, was released in 1975. She continued her education, earning a master's degree from the University of St. Thomas.

Sara Jordan Powell released several more albums with Savoy Records. These included I Must Tell Jesus (1980), Sara Jordan Powell (1990), When Jesus Comes to Stay (1990), and The Soul of Sara Jordan Powell (1995). She also released Live in Houston in 1995.

Performing for Presidents

Sara Jordan Powell had the special opportunity to perform at the White House for several U.S. presidents. In 1979, she sang "Amazing Grace" for President Jimmy Carter. This event honored the Black Music Association and included other famous artists like Chuck Berry and Andraé Crouch.

President Ronald Reagan later asked her to be part of the Year of the Bible Committee. She also had the chance to perform for President Bill Clinton in Memphis, Tennessee. These performances showed how much her music was respected and appreciated.

Later Achievements

After moving, Sara Jordan Powell became an academic advisor at Oral Roberts University. She also served as the Fine Arts Executive Director for the Church of God in Christ for ten years. Her contributions to gospel music were recognized when she was inducted into the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame in 2003.

Discography

• 1972 -- "Songs of Faith and Inspiration" (Savoy)
• 1975 – "Touch Somebody's Life" (Savoy)
• 1980 – "I Must Tell Jesus" (Savoy)
• 1990 – "Sara Jordan Powell" (Savoy)
• 1990 – "When Jesus Comes to Stay"
• 1995 – "The Soul of Sara Jordan Powell" (Savoy)
• 1995 – "Live in Houston" (Compendia)