Charlie Wilson’s NPR Tiny Desk performance quickly turned into a service of praise and worship.
Wilson, aka “Uncle Charlie” from the Gap Band, took the NPR office to church with his recent Tiny Desk concert. He performed performed intimate renditions of his hits “Charlie, Last Name Wilson,” “Computer Love” and “Yearning For Your Love.” But he took the concert to a new level following his performance of “I’m Blessed,” when he began sharing his powerful testimony.
“I went from rags to riches, riches to rags, then rags to the curb, the curb to homeless,” he preached. “Because I was an alcoholic and a crack cocaine addict. But I’m 28 years clean and sober! ‘Cause I found something greater than myself. He picked me up and turned me around and place my feet up on some solid ground.”
Charlie Wilson started preaching on Tiny Desk. Tuned up with key change and a war cry! CHURCHY! pic.twitter.com/wKoRv58Vr3
— Kevín (@KevOnStage) June 5, 2023
Wilson has proudly shared his story for years. The former Gap Band lead vocalist has been clean from the cocaine and alcohol addiction that led him to become homeless and sleeping on the streets of Hollywood Boulevard for two years. Since then, Wilson has created a new legacy by working with artists like Snoop Dogg, Nas, Tyler the Creator, Don Toliver and more.
His tiny desk performance kicks off NPR’s month-long series in celebration of Black Music Month. You can watch Wilson’s full concert here.
