For nearly five decades, the sound of Billy Rivers and the Angelic Voices of Faith (BRAVOF) has been more than music—it has been ministry, healing, and hope wrapped in harmony. This Labor Day weekend, their legacy will be honored with a powerful 46th Anniversary Reunion Concert and Live Recording, held on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at Oak Grove Baptist Church, 7289 Highway 64, Memphis, TN, where Rev. Donald Johnson serves as Senior Pastor.

“Forty-six years ago, we were just a small group trying to honor God,” says Minister Billy Rivers, eyes glistening with humility. “We had no idea our sound would carry this far. But the Bible says, ‘Your gift will make room for you, and bring you before great men’ (Proverbs 18:16), and that’s exactly what God has done.”

The concert will bring together a 70-member reunion choir of past and present BRAVOF singers. It’s more than a performance—it's a declaration of God's faithfulness through the years.

Founded in 1979 by Gwendolyn Turner, BRAVOF began with a calling—not to fame, but to faith. “God didn’t call us to entertain,” Turner shares. “He called us to minister. And when you say yes to that assignment, He will do exceedingly and abundantly above all that you ask or think (Ephesians 3:20).”

Back then, the choir gathered in small sanctuaries, sometimes singing without microphones or proper robes. “All we had was our voices and our hearts,” Turner recalls. “And that was enough. The anointing was present.”

When Billy Rivers joined as Minister of Music, his vision, excellence, and ear for arrangement elevated BRAVOF to national prominence. “God surrounded us with people who were gifted—but more importantly, people who were willing,” he says. “If you are faithful over a few things, He will make you ruler over many (Matthew 25:23). That’s been our testimony.”

BRAVOF has produced beloved gospel classics like “Must Jesus Bear the Cross Alone”, “Wonder Worker”, and “Never Let a Day Go By.” Each song, Rivers says, was birthed out of prayer and purpose.

“Our songs come from scripture and life,” says longtime lead vocalist Angela “Evangelist Angie” Warren. “When we sing ‘Never let a day go by without thanking You,’ that’s personal. That’s Psalm 34:1 — ‘I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.’”

Their album The Best is Coming was a prophetic declaration. It featured the Billboard-charting single “Never”—a vibrant blend of traditional soul and contemporary gospel written by James “Teddy” Thomas and Ray Maxwell.

“I remember the studio session like it was yesterday,” Rivers says. “The presence of the Lord filled that room. That’s how we know when we’ve done what we were supposed to do.”

Songs from BRAVOF’s albums were featured in The Great Debaters, starring Denzel Washington, and on national radio via Sheridan Broadcasting’s Gospel Network.

“BRAVOF is more than just a choir—it’s a ministry,” says Rev. Donald Johnson of Oak Grove Baptist. “What they’ve poured into this city for over four decades can’t be measured in awards or record sales. It’s measured in salvations, in encouragement, in tears wiped and hearts lifted.”

Through every season—good, bad, and uncertain—BRAVOF’s message has remained the same: Jesus is Lord.

Billy Rivers testifies, “Even when we lost members, lost venues, or faced hard times, we stood on Isaiah 54:17 — ‘No weapon formed against you shall prosper.’ God never failed us.”

The 2025 Reunion Choir will feature over 70 singers from various churches and denominations. Some are pastors now. Others lead music ministries. Some haven’t sung with BRAVOF in years—but all are returning with joy.

“It’s like coming home,” says Pastor Terrence Jones, a former BRAVOF tenor. “There’s a sound that only happens when we’re together. It’s not just harmony—it’s unity. ‘Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity’ (Psalm 133:1).”

Rivers adds, “This concert is not just about the past. It’s about declaring that we’re still here. Still singing. Still serving.”

The evening will feature guest appearances, original BRAVOF soloists, and a live recording of both classics and new music.

In a special gesture of community appreciation, a portion of the proceeds from the concert will be donated to local nonprofits in Memphis that support youth development, housing assistance, and healing programs.

“To whom much is given, much is required,” Rivers says, quoting Luke 12:48. “This city has poured into us—now we’re pouring back.”

Still Standing on the Word

During rehearsals, the choir often opens with scripture and prayer. The message is always clear: it’s not about perfection—it’s about purpose.

“If God is in it, He’ll sustain it,” says Rivers. “He told us in Psalm 100:2 — ‘Serve the Lord with gladness: come before His presence with singing.’ That’s what we do, every time we step on a stage.”

When asked what keeps him going after 46 years, Rivers smiles. “The Lord,” he says. “Every year I say, ‘I might slow down.’ And every year, He strengthens me. Like Isaiah 40:31 says — ‘They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength… they shall mount up with wings as eagles.’ That’s how we’ve made it this far.”

Churches across Memphis are rallying around the anniversary.

“I’ve been following BRAVOF since the ‘80s,” says Mother Lena Harper, 78, of Greater Deliverance Church. “I remember taking my children to their concerts. Now I’m taking my grandchildren. That’s legacy.”

Youth choirs have also taken notice.

“I want to be a musician like Mr. Rivers,” says 12-year-old Jalen Morris, who recently joined his church’s junior choir. “He makes worship look cool.”

The 46th Anniversary Reunion Concert is not just for BRAVOF alumni—it’s for the entire community.

“If you’ve ever been blessed by our music, we invite you to join us,” says Gwendolyn Turner. “And if you’ve never heard us, come experience the presence of God in song.”

The concert begins at 5:00 PM. Doors open at 4:00 PM. Seating is first-come, first-served. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early.

Dress code: Church casual. Worship attire encouraged. Praise mandatory.

As BRAVOF celebrates 46 years of musical ministry, their eyes remain on the future.

“There are still songs to write,” says Rivers. “Still souls to reach. Still churches to bless. Until God says, ‘Well done,’ we’ll keep singing.”

The best, as their album promised years ago, is still coming.

Don’t miss this historic night of praise, worship, and remembrance. Bring your family, your choir, your friends—and your heart open for worship.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Gwen Turner – 901.644.0959
g.turner.1@hotmail.com
Dr. Telisa Franklin, Media Relations – 901.281.6337
telisafranklin@gmail.com