Caribbean Gospel Festival slated for October 4 in Guadeloupe

In 2006, David and Jocelyne GOMA initiated the expansion of the Gospel Festival de Paris into the French West Indies. That same year, they established the Total Praise Caribbean Choir and launched the Caribbean Gospel Festival.

A press release from the group stated that since its inception, this initiative has experienced consistent success.

This year’s event is slated for October 4, at Guadeloupe venue Palais Des Sports, Le Gosier.

Historically held in various locations across Martinique, past concerts have reportedly garnered broadcast coverage on prominent French television channels such as France Ô, as well as on local Martinique channels including Martinique 1ère, ATV, and Zouk TV.

The festival’s high-quality programming and increasing audience engagement have elevated it to a prominent status within the Caribbean region, said the release. Past editions have showcased notable gospel artists such as Byron Cage, Damita Chandler, Deitrick Haddon, Isaac Frempong, Jermaine Edwards, Mona Abel, Israel Houghton, Chevelle Franklin, Mahalia Buchanan, Kierra Sheard-Kelly, and Jonathan McReynolds.

Total Praise Caribbean actively participates throughout the year in various gospel-related events. The choir has taken part in numerous “Gospel Caravanes,” a concept founded by Pastors Goma involving mini-concerts in major towns of Martinique in collaboration with local municipalities.

Additionally, Total Praise Caribbean frequently performs in shopping mall showcases, and makes appearances on television and radio programs. Notably, in June 2014, the choir was invited to perform live at the Gospel Fest in Barbados, sharing the stage with prominent gospel artists such as Hezekiah Walker and Tye Tribbett.

The choir has shared stages with internationally acclaimed artists including Byron Cage (2010), Deitrick Haddon (2014), Israel Houghton (2017), Kierra Sheard Kelly (2022), and Jonathan McReynolds (2024).

For the 2025 edition, the 14th, the festival will feature guest artists Todd Dulaney and Kevin Downswell.

Todd Dulaney, born December 20, 1983, in Maywood, Illinois, is an American gospel singer, musician, and songwriter. Initially pursuing a career in professional baseball with the New York Mets, Dulaney made a significant life change in 2005, choosing to dedicate himself fully to music and his faith. His debut album, Pulling Me Through (2011), introduced him to the gospel music scene, but it was his 2016 release, A Worshipper’s Heart, that gained international acclaim. Tracks such as “Victory Belongs to Jesus” and “The Anthem” became widely popular worldwide.

Dulaney’s musical style, which blends traditional gospel with contemporary influences, enables him to connect with diverse audiences and establish himself as a prominent figure in gospel music, as outlined by the release. It further states that his energetic and heartfelt live performances are highly praised for their authenticity and ability to evoke deep gospel experiences.

For the first time in Guadeloupe, Todd Dulaney will perform alongside the Total Praise Mass Choir at the Caribbean Gospel Festival, promising what organizers say will be an unforgettable evening.

According to the release, Kevin Downswell, a highly influential figure in Jamaican gospel music, is celebrated for his powerful vocal style and authentic Caribbean flavor that deeply resonates with audiences. Since his debut, Downswell has become one of the most influential gospel artists internationally, with songs that extend their reach beyond Jamaica. His talent, charisma, and depth make each performance a unique and emotionally charged experience.

The 14th edition of the Caribbean Gospel Festival, marks the singer’s return to the stage to deliver an extraordinary concert in Guadeloupe.

More information about the event can be found at this link.