Sometime in 2000, a fellow I know who works with musicians making CDs to benefit charities told me about Richard Smallwood. Who? Exactly, I said. But it turns out Richard is a legend, and his influence is so widespread and talent so immense that I was embarrassed having never heard (or hear of) a fellow Washingtonian who has played at the White House, Kennedy Center, been honored by the Smithsonian and is a Hall of Famer. The Gospel Hall of Fame.

Now, like many people today, I'm not overtly religious. And the music genres of Christian, gospel, gospel rock, contemporary Christian, etc. have all the acidic appeal of Wednesday night prayer meetings. So it was with some reservation that I attended a VIP taping for Richard's spectacular CD, “Persuaded—Live in D.C” at Jericho Ministries in Landover, Md. Backed by his multitalented 20-piece group of singers by the name of Vision, Richard put on a show like no other I've seen. You've heard of old-time Southern revivals? Imagine almost 10,000 in attendance among the pews and aisles, standing, clapping and screaming as Richard's emsemble tore down the house with the backing of a 40-piece orchestra.

This went on for five hours. I have attended only one concert that was better—Springsteen during "The River" tour.

I met Richard after the show and apologized to him. Apologized for having never heard of him, apologized for having never bought his music, apologized for just being a lousy sports muck. Richard took it in good humor and said, "Just spread The Word." I knew what he meant, but I'm here to spread the word of Richard Smallwood's music, and let you decide on The Word.

Today, Amazon.com notified me that Richard has a new compilation CD titled “Definitive Gospel Collection” that is typically brilliant in concept: it's Christian-oriented lullabies for kids. It's not for everyone but the release segues into spreading the broader word about Richard's awesome package of work.

His writing, composing and orchestration have been used by Whitney Houston, Boyz II Men, Destiny's Child, and so many more. You've heard his songs in film, TV and on stage. What you find in Richard's music is a depth of soul, blues, R&B, jazz and operatic that skews traditional gospel but still celebrates spirit. Check out the 5-star “Persuaded—Live in D.C,” particularly “Anthem of Praise,” ”Coronation,” ”It Is Well With My Soul,” “My Everything,” “Nothing Without You,” and, if you're “Persuaded”. . .

. . . Sample “Journey: Live in New York,” and Kim Burrell's “Journey,” Kelly Price's “Morning's Breaking,” Chaka Kahn's “Precious Is Your Name,” “We’ve Come Too Far,” by The Hawkins Family and more.

I have rarely told anyone about Richard Smallwood who didn't become a fan. Visit iTunes, Amazon.com and YouTube to sample some of his music. Perhaps you will become a fan, too.