After Dinner Speakers: Yolanda Adams, Rick Wakeman, John McCririck

b. 27 August 1962, Houston, Texas, USA. Adams began her recording career in 1987. She had previously worked as a fashion model and a teacher before joining the Southeast Inspirational Choir as a soloist. She toured and recorded widely with the choir from the age of 13 onwards. During this time her talent was recognized by Thomas Whitfield, who offered her the opportunity to record a solo album. Just As I Am duly followed in 1987, attracting widespread critical praise, strong sales and a Grammy award. Subsequent recognition included three Stellar awards for her 1993 album, Save The World, the second of her albums for Tribute Records. Spending 61 weeks in the Billboard gospel chart, it included a contemporary Christian standard in "The Battle Is The Lord's". The R&B-orientated More Than A Melody featured another strong single in "Gotta Have Love", as well as a song written specially for her by Bebe Winans, "What About The Children?'. Adams' stunning 1996 concert set ably captured the intensity of her live performances. Following another strong collection, 1998"s Songs From The Heart, Adams signed to Elektra Records in an attempt to consolidate her crossover appeal. The attendant Mountain High ... Valley Low received glowing reviews. Her Christmas album was less essential, but was followed by the career-defining live set, The Experience.