Highgate Gospel Choir’s Triumphant Return: Donavan Hepburn on 40 Years of Faith, Family & Music
- Tamara Jenna
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
The UK’s gospel scene is experiencing a moment of pure revival — and at the heart of it is Birmingham’s own Highgate Gospel Choir.
Formed in 1979, the choir rose to prominence in the 1980s, touring nationally and winning over mainstream audiences with a soul-stirring rendition of “Something Inside So Strong”. After disbanding in the 1990s, their story could have ended there — but in 2019, acclaimed musical director and producer Donavan Hepburn decided it was time to bring them back.
Now, as the choir celebrates the 40th anniversary of their debut album, their story bridges generations, uniting four to five of the original choir families, including five of Donavan’s own siblings, and introducing the children of the original members to the stage. It’s a true gospel revival — one that speaks to the power of independent music and community heritage.
🎙️ A Conversation Worth Hearing
In the latest episode of the TJPL News Podcast, I sit down with Donavan Hepburn to talk about the journey from idea to reality.
From reuniting voices after decades apart to blending modern recording techniques with the choir’s timeless sound, Donavan reflects on the urgency of the reunion, the challenge of modernising beloved classics, and the spiritual significance of this milestone.
We also get a glimpse into the upcoming Deluxe Edition of The Legacy Project, arriving this August with four brand-new tracks, plus the choir’s triumphant return to stages in Brixton and Inverness.
Why This Matters for Independent Music
While Donavan’s career has taken him around the world with artists like Take That, Jeff Lynne’s ELO, his work with Highgate Gospel Choir is deeply personal — rooted in the same community where his musical journey began.
This revival isn’t just nostalgia. It’s proof that independent music and heritage projects can stand alongside big-name productions in cultural impact, audience reach, and artistic value.
For fans of music news, UK gospel, and real stories behind the sound, this episode is essential listening.
📌 Listen Now & Join the Conversation
🎧 Listen to the full interview with Donavan Hepburn on the TJPL News Podcast — available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and Audible.
📬 Subscribe to the TJPL News mailing list for the latest music news, independent music features, and exclusive artist interviews.
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