FAMU student makes it from ‘the Hill’ to the pulpit

Growing up in Jacksonville, Jeffrey Johnson dreamed of becoming a successful gospel singer. Throughout his childhood, he worked to perfect his natural talent by singing for local musicians and in youth choirs.After years of dedication to his craft, Johnson’s has managed to take his dreams to new heights. He auditioned and placed in the top 100 on BET’s TV show Sunday’s Best. The show gives aspiring gospel singers an opportunity to showcase their vocal abilities against others from across the country. After conducting nationwide auditions in major cities across the country, Johnson was selected among thousands as a contestant. Johnson, 22, a third-year political science student, was surrounded by religious music throughout his childhood. “My mom and grandma got me involved at a young age. I started singing in the Sunshine Band, youth choir, adult choir, praise team and it has continued until today,” said Johnson. Upon enrollment at Florida A&M, Johnson joined the Florida A&M Gospel Choir and the concert choir. As he became more involved, his success continued to grow. He even had the opportunity to sing on the Georgia Mass Choir’s Grammy nominated album “Higher.” After this Johnson continued to pursue his dream. He initially thought his path to success would run through another reality television show. “I tried out for American Idol when they came to Jacksonville, but that just wasn’t for me,” said Johnson. When the opportunity to become a part of a national gospel competition presented itself Johnson leapt at the chance.Johnson was overjoyed when he found out that he was a finalist.He will perform in front of major gospel artists such as Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, BeBe Winans and other gospel greats. His competition will include some of the most talented people from tiny store-front chapels to mega churches.The winner of Sunday Best will receive a national recording contract, a new automobile, and a cash prize benefiting his or her community, along with the title “Sunday Best”.