The Reunion Tour was a much-needed night of praise with everything going on in the world. Featuring a lineup of all-star gospel artists — including Kirk Franklin, The Clark Sisters, Israel Houghton, Tamela and David Mann, and Tye Tribbett — this concert was a highly anticipated event at Capital One Arena recently.
Having seen each artist perform individually at different churches in the DMV, it was exciting to see them all together on a big stage with the largest crowd of the tour gathered at the Capital One Area in DC on Oct. 22. It truly felt like a reunion, as I saw a few of my peers and family members come together for a night of celebration.
Before the show began, the MC of the night engaged the crowd by asking for their ages to determine which age group could be the loudest. The presence of an infant and a woman in her 90s was in the audience this night, topping the oldest age all tour.
The concert kicked off with Kirk Franklin taking the center stage, prompting the crowd to rise to their feet as the background singers started singing “Joy.” The legendary Clark Sisters then appeared on the main stage, delivering a powerful performance of “Miracle.” It was a joyous moment to witness such an elite group producing timeless music.
Stream “Miracle” by The Clark Sisters on YouTube:
As the night continued, Israel Houghton took the stage with his black and white guitar, performing “Again I Say Rejoice” and captivating the audience. Tye Tribbett surprised everyone by appearing in the crowd in the 108 section, greeting excited fans before making his way to the main stage to perform “If He Did It Before… Same God.” The energy was infectious, and that was only apart of the first act.
David and Tamela Mann, walked down the runway hand in hand. Displaying that unique bond for one another. I was lucky enough to be near the center where all the performers came to deliver a collection of songs. While Kirk Franklin, Tye Tribbett, and David Mann were known for their high-energy performances, the Clark Sisters surprised everyone matching the same level of energy. As they were wearing sneakers and was able to add some extra levels of praise. Which was humorous to David Mann as he made a joke about it later on in the show.
Tye Tribbett couldn’t wait to perform “Victory” in DC, adding he couldn’t wait to perform it as it was made for us due to the Go-Go beat. Tye didn’t have to sing a word we were in the pocket, hitting those imaginary Congos, the audience was grooving.
Watch Tye Tribbett perform “Victory” live for TBN on YouTube:
I have to give flowers to the ladies of the tour The Clark Sisters and Tamela Mann. Each note hit you spiritually a pure vibration over took the arena when they sang. Happy have witness them sing together.
Special guests Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Jonathan McReynolds joined the stage to help close the show, adding even more talent and power to the already incredible lineup.
My favorite moment of the night was when David and Kirk Franklin took it back and sang a fan favorite, “He’s Able,” but with a Go-Go beat catering to the DC audience. It was a unique and enjoyable twist. Another moment David’s silly self did a headstand during one of the dance breaks, adding a fun element to the performance.
If there was one wishful thinking, it would have been for the Clark Sisters to perform “Center Of Thy Will,” a song that resonates with all the church girls in the audience. *Wink Wink*
Overall, the concert was close to three hours, but I still wanted more. The crowd was fully engaged, stretching their arms high and wide, embracing the presence of God throughout the night. It was a powerful and uplifting experience that left me wanting to see and hear more from these incredible gospel artists.
Here are some photos of Kirk Franklin and company performing on The Reunion Tour at Capital One Arena on Oct. 22, 2023. All pictures copyright and courtesy of Mecie Gold.
