Inaugural NC Juneteenth Gospel Concert to Honor Gospel Legends, Celebrate 50 Years of Hayti

Durham, NC — The spirit of faith and freedom will take center stage on June 20, 2025, as the inaugural NC Juneteenth Gospel Concert fills the historic Hayti Heritage Center with the rich sounds of gospel music — celebrating both the 20th Annual NC Juneteenth Celebration and Hayti’s 50th anniversary.

The concert, which is free and open to the public (ticket required), will honor two legendary gospel announcers and feature powerful performances by top North Carolina gospel artists.

Honoring Keepers of the Gospel

Central to the evening is the presentation of the Keeper of the Gospel Award, which celebrates individuals who have devoted themselves to preserving and promoting the powerful legacy of gospel music.

Gospel music, rooted in the spiritual traditions of enslaved Africans in America, served as both a source of hope and a means of communication during slavery. These songs expressed faith, resilience, and the longing for freedom — and have continued to uplift generations.

Recipients of this year’s award exemplify that spirit of preservation and inspiration:

Carolyn Pettiford-Ryals

Carolyn Pettiford-Ryals has dedicated nearly three decades to preserving and sharing gospel music through the airwaves and in the community. A beloved voice on WNCU 90.7 FM, she currently hosts “Hallelujah Praise,” one of the station’s signature gospel programs, airing every Sunday morning from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m.

An award-winning announcer and talented recording artist, Pettiford-Ryals has built a loyal following with her deep knowledge of traditional gospel, love for quartet and choir music, and warm, uplifting presence on air. Off the air, she is also known for her gospel ministry work, having recorded an upcoming international CD and regularly ministering through song.

A Roxboro, NC native, long active in the Triangle’s gospel and faith community, Pettiford-Ryals will celebrate 27 years in broadcasting in 2025—continuing to inspire and encourage listeners each week with her passion for gospel music and her unwavering faith.

Minister Carolyn Satterfield

Minister Carolyn Satterfield has been a beloved voice in gospel music and radio for decades. A member of Mt. Level Missionary Baptist Church since 2019, Minister Satterfield has served as a gospel announcer on WNCU 90.7 FM since October 2010, where she is now celebrating nearly 15 years on air.

She currently hosts “Close to Thee,” airing every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., where she continues to uplift listeners with both traditional and contemporary gospel music.

Widowed from the late Steve Satterfield, she has recorded moving gospel tracks including “Guide Me” and “Mama Taught Us How to Pray” (2002). A lifelong singer and Associate Minister, she began singing gospel music at just five years old and continues to bless audiences today through both her ministry and music.

Known for her heart for service, Minister Satterfield often says: “No weapon that is formed against you shall be able to prosper. Jesus didn’t say it wouldn’t form against you; He said it just won’t work.”

An unforgettable night of gospel music

The concert will feature dynamic performances by:

• Thelma Bass & The Faithfulaires
• Jubilant Gospel Singers of North Carolina
• Hillside High School Alumni Choir — whose members include notable recording artists, musicians, and choir directors. The choir has proudly performed original plays spotlighting African American history and contributions.

The evening will be hosted by Pastor Nell Smith, also known as “Little Nell” — a Stellar Award nominee with a powerful voice and a deep ministry legacy. Pastor Nell will not only serve as emcee but will also perform her latest release during the concert.

Pastor Nell brings decades of experience as a gospel singer, preacher, author, and founder of Living Waters Christian Church and Nell Smith Ministries. She has performed with gospel greats and received two Presidential Lifetime Achievement Awards.

A night to remember

“We are honored to uplift both the voices of gospel legends and today’s emerging talents as we celebrate the deep cultural and spiritual impact of gospel music,” said Phyllis Coley, NC Juneteenth State Director. “This inaugural concert, set in the historic Hayti Heritage Center during its 50th anniversary year, will be a true celebration of faith, history, and community.”

NC Juneteenth Gospel Concert
        June 20, 2025
        Hayti Heritage Center, Durham, NC
        7:00 PM
        Free admission | Ticket required

For tickets, click here.

For more information, visit: SpectacularMag.com/Juneteenth.