Albertina Walker
August 29, 1929 – October 8, 2010
Albertina Walker was a beloved Gospel singer who has been rightfully called the “Queen of Gospel.” Walker began singing while still a child in Chicago, Illinois, driven by the influence of future friend and mentor, the great Mahalia Jackson. It was during the early ’50s that she formed her first group, the Caravans, which counted such greats as Shirley Caesar, James Cleveland, and Loleatta Holloway as members. By the ’70s, Walker was working as a solo act, recording for such respected labels as Savoy and A&M Records. Over the course of her career, she has won three Dove awards and one Grammy, sold over 500,000 of five separate albums, and sang for two U.S. Presidents as well as Nelson Mandela. Albertina Walker was 81 when she passed away on October 8, 2010.
What You Should Own
Gospel singer Albertina Walker was a great singer who shared her talents with many throughout the world. I recalled that she sang at my husband’s cousin funeral in Chicago in the 80’s I believe. His name was Eddie Dixon who was a musician and played for the singer at some point in her career.
This pioneer singer of great gospel music, Albertina Walker, and those others who made up the Caravans gave the world a wealth of good spiritual music to our generation. It came at a time when we needed it most.
She will be missed greatly.