Honoring Dr. King Through the Music of Mahalia Jackson

In January 2025, , the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra presented its Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Concert to a full house at the Bijou Theatre. The free performance, presented in partnership with the Beck Cultural Exchange Center and the Bijou, honored the enduring legacy of Dr. King through the powerful music of gospel legend Mahalia Jackson.

Led by Music Director Aram Demirjian, the KSO was joined by Knoxville’s own Evelyn Jack for Gospel According to Mahalia — a heartfelt program celebrating Jackson’s impact as a musical icon and Civil Rights champion. Highlights included stirring renditions of “Elijah Rock,” “Walk with Me,” “Lift Every Voice,” and “We Shall Overcome.”

“We were honored to pay tribute to Dr. King through the voice of Mahalia Jackson,” said Demirjian. “Her music gave strength to the Civil Rights Movement, and it was a joy to bring that spirit to life alongside Evelyn Jack — one of Knoxville’s most powerful voices.”