From Harmony to Hope: The USC Upstate Gospel Choir’s Journey to Musical Excellence
The University of South Carolina Upstate has long been a beacon of transformation, cultivating a community where diversity, ethics, and inclusion flourish. Among its shining achievements is the USC Upstate Gospel Choir, a soulful ensemble that has become the heart of campus life. Originally founded as The Gordon-Collums Gospel Choir, the group evolved alongside the university, rebranding in 2005 when the institution became USC Upstate. Today, the choir not only serves as a source of inspiration for students and the community but also stands as a testament to the university’s commitment to empowering lives through the transformative power of Gospel music.
Since 2013, under the visionary leadership of Alphaeus Anderson—a gifted songwriter, choir director, and educator—the choir has grown from a modest 16 members to an impressive ensemble of over 70 voices. Anderson’s innovative approach to youth empowerment has breathed new life into the choir, culminating in its preparation to release a debut album. With the upcoming single “Already Done,” the USC Upstate Gospel Choir is poised to extend its influence beyond the Upstate region, sharing a message of hope, perseverance, and spiritual triumph. This is more than music; it’s a movement—a powerful reminder of how faith and creativity can transform lives and build communities.
“Already Done is the anthem that bursts through the darkness, lighting up the future with a blaze of unbreakable faith,” Alphaeus states. “It’s the sound of victory before the battle, the assurance that the impossible is already within reach no matter the storm. To some, this song is a prophecy; to others, it’s a promise already fulfilled.”
Alphaeus Anderson is the author of Youth Magnet and No Youth No Church SOULutions and the founder of No Youth No Church, which provides coaching and training for leaders to attract and empower youth. He founded the Pure-N-Heart choir, which now attracts over 350 students annually, and has received seven Stellar Award nominations, winning Best Youth Project of the Year in 2012 and 2019.
Watch This Electrifying Performance Video:
