September 18, 2023
8:27 AM
Photo by Earl Gibson/BET/Getty Images for BET
Today (September 18) the gospel music world is celebrating a living legend, Dr. Bobby Jones, as he marks his 85th birthday. Dr. Jones is a pioneer, an inspiration, and a true icon in the world of gospel music, having dedicated his life to spreading a message of faith, hope, and love through music. Kirk Franklin said it best exclusively to BET.com, “Everyone stands on your shoulders, we are who we are because of ‘Bobby Jones Gospel’ and Bobby Jones.”
While many are familiar with his groundbreaking television show, “Bobby Jones Gospel,” and his contributions to the genre, here are ten lesser-known facts about this remarkable individual.
Dr. Bobby Jones was born in Henry County, Tennessee. He excelled academically and graduating from high school at only 15 years old.
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Dr. Jones’s television career was launched in 1976 on Nashville’s WSMV with the Sunday show “Nashville Gospel.” Four years later, he would make history at BET.
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Dr. Bobby Jones earned his bachelor’s degree in elementary education by age 19. He also holds a Doctorate of Education degree from Vanderbilt University. His commitment to education is as strong as his dedication to gospel music!
In 1984, Dr. Jones — under the name Bobby Jones and New Life — received a Grammy Award for Best Soul Gospel Performance By A Duo Or Group for the song “I’m So Glad I’m Standing Here Today.” This accolade solidified his status as a gospel music luminary.
Dr. Bobby Jones is a member of Phi Beta Sigma. He pledged the Zeta Alpha Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
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The gospel industry has been embracing of their LGBTQ supporters but Bobby Jones was ahead of his time. In 1994, as HIV/AIDS was devastating queer communities, Jones pushed back on the narrative that being gay is simply behavioral, “I’m too intelligent for that. I do listen to what experts in the fields of human sexuality have to say about people and what happens to them when they reach puberty, the changes that happen in adolescence.”
In 2006, he appeared in the Black LGBT film “Dirty Laundry,” which also included Jenifer Lewis and Loretta Devine. In the touching film, directed by the late Maurice Jamal, about love, Jones played Pastor James.
Photo by Earl Gibson/BET/Getty Images for BET
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Even in his 85th year, Dr. Bobby Jones remains actively involved in gospel music. He continues to inspire and uplift through his timeless message of faith and his unwavering dedication to the gospel genre.
As we celebrate Dr. Bobby Jones’s 85th birthday, we are reminded of the indelible mark he has left on the world of gospel music. His contributions extend far beyond the stage and screen, as he has played an instrumental role in shaping the genre and nurturing talent for decades. Happy birthday, Dr. Bobby Jones, and thank you for your enduring legacy of spreading joy, hope, and inspiration through gospel music!
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