Twenty-five voices backed by the Thunder Band blend the power of gospel music with the modern sounds of pop, rock and R&B. This band, the Prayer Warriors, perform what they call “inspirational groove music with a message.”

For more than a decade this group has crossed musical boundaries and stretched limits to deliver a message of brotherhood, peace and understanding. Although rooted in the musical traditions of the church, the Prayer Warriors speak a contemporary language in nontraditional places. Their jubilant voices are often heard in community and neighborhood festivals, corporate events, private parties, bars, coffeehouses, bookstores, restaurants and evening concerts under the stars.

Herb Thomas, founder and leader, Clifton Beasley, musical director, and the rest of the Prayer Warriors make events memorable for their audiences. Their approach, fresh and inspired, takes a cue from their mentors, The Staples Singers, who rose to fame in the 1960s. Thomas remarks, “It's satisfying when we see that we've touched someone. If we can calm a troubled soul, lift someone's spirit, touch their heart or get them to sing along, even for a moment, then we've accomplished something.”

The Prayer Warriors' repertoire includes a version of the Bob Marley anthem “One Love,” Paul McCartney's “Silly Love Songs,” and a not-so-traditional but equally moving version of “Amazing Grace.” Come out to the Fall Wellness Festival at Trillium Creek on Saturday, October 2, 2004 to listen, dance, clap your hands and be moved by the inspirational groove of the Prayer Warriors.

More information on the Prayer Warriors can be found online at www.thomasvisionsinc.com or by calling (216) 531-9113.

Greg Benedetto is the Music Director at Unity of Greater Cleveland in Shaker Heights and the Director of the Undergrounds, a regular community coffeehouse. For more information, log onto www.unitygreatercleveland.com or call (216) 751-1198.

Photos by Bob Perkoski - www.Perkoski.com.