What began as a spring concert became something far greater: a full-circle celebration of faith, legacy, worship, and the anointing that has shaped Pastor Donnie McClurkin’s more than four decades in Gospel music.
On Saturday evening, Perfecting Faith Church hosted a powerful night of worship that left hearts stirred and spirits lifted. By the end of the evening, McClurkin made a major announcement: his final recording project, FINALLY, released through CamDon Music, is set to arrive this summer.
“FINALLY marks the end of my recording career,” said McClurkin. “It’s not just a dramatic title; it’s a testimony of the end of my commercial side of music. Every song represents such an inspiration that is felt in the creative expression of each song, uniquely. I want to leave something that will outlast me. Something that will still be ministering long after my life is done. This is my offering to God and people.”
The evening opened with Carpenters United, a family of five from Queens, New York, whose passion for music and ministry was evident from the first note. Their reggae-inspired selection “Come Fill This Place” set a joyful tone of expectation before they closed their set with the melodic “You Reminded Me.”
One of the night’s most emotional highlights was the reunion of former members of The New York Restoration Choir, founded by Pastor McClurkin. The choir holds a special place in McClurkin’s musical journey, as his first recording was made with the ensemble on Savoy Records, the legendary Gospel label led by Pastor Milton Biggham.
Under McClurkin’s direction, the choir delivered a four-song set that included “We Worship You,” “Nobody But You,” “Lamb of God,” and “What A Love,” led by Andrea McClurkin-Mellini. For longtime supporters of the choir, the moment felt like a true homecoming.
Serving as both host and narrator, Pastor McClurkin guided the audience through a musical journey honoring the history of Gospel music. He paid tribute to some of the genre’s most influential voices, including Edwin Hawkins, Walter Hawkins, Andraé Crouch, and Richard Smallwood.
Beloved classics filled the sanctuary, including Edwin Hawkins’ “Oh Happy Day,” Andraé Crouch’s “My Tribute (To God Be the Glory),” Richard Smallwood’s “Total Praise,” and Bishop Walter Hawkins’ “Changed.”
When McClurkin took the stage alongside the singers and musicians who have traveled the world with him in ministry, the atmosphere shifted. Their reunion was more than musical; it was spiritual, reflective, and deeply moving.
“What A Mighty God” shook the room with praise. “I Will Bless Your Holy Name” brought many to tears. “Solid Rock” blended the timeless hymn with a fresh, rhythmic approach, while the “Holy” medley, featuring songs from McClurkin’s Grammy Award-winning album Again, lifted the night into an even deeper worship experience.
McClurkin closed the evening with his Billboard chart-topping single “Better Afterwhile,” offering words of encouragement that brought the audience to its feet. It was the kind of ending that lingered long after the final note.
While FINALLY marks McClurkin’s last recording project, his ministry is far from over. The official release date for the project is expected to be announced in 2026. McClurkin will continue to make special live appearances and tour, reaching audiences through multiple platforms and ministry opportunities.
About Donnie McClurkin
Donnie McClurkin is one of the most recognized and celebrated voices in Gospel music. With a career spanning more than three decades, he has become known as a trailblazer, minister, worship leader, and one of the genre’s most impactful artists.
Throughout his career, McClurkin has earned multiple Grammy®, Dove, Stellar, BET, NAACP Image, and Soul Train Awards. With more than 13 million albums sold worldwide, his music has crossed denominational and cultural boundaries, inspiring generations through heartfelt worship, powerful testimony, and messages of hope.
McClurkin has shared stages with icons across Gospel and mainstream music and has appeared on some of the world’s most prominent platforms, including televised specials, award shows, international crusades, and worship gatherings.