As noted in the news column here, Marie Knight died this past week.
Until recently I'd only recognized her work in passing, as the partner for a time with Sister Rosetta Tharpe. I loved that music, but I had taken for granted Ms. Knight's contribution - as happens far too often with the supporting crew of that great gospel train.
Her triumphant return to center stage with the release of Let Us Get Together in 2007 proved what a vital force had been denied full recognition due. With the lithe and loving support Larry Campbell brings to every project lucky enough to carry his supporting byline, Knight's voice - aged to a craggy new eolquence - carved out 12 strikingly renewed versions of gospel cornerstones, I'd foolishly thought had been sufficiently mined. Death shaded the border on many of these restored songs of experience, but joy, peace and a knowing grace lit up this heart-felt portrait of musical ministry.
I was lucky enough to catch Ms. Knight last year in Norfolk, opening for The Dixie Hummingbirds (especially haunting now as it was one of that group's first ventures onstage without the soon-to-be-lost Ira Tucker). Backed by a somewhat less insightful accompanist than Mr. Campbell, Marie Knight nonetheless radiated anew that spirit which carries the promise forward , even now - "As long ss I live in this world" - I Am The Light Of This World.