The Verizon Wireless “How Sweet The Sound” choir competition finale took place in Atlanta, Georgia on Saturday, November 8, 2008, at Phillips Arena. The competition toured eleven cities, selecting the best choirs from each, before winding up in Atlanta for the finale.


Congratulations to ACME Baptist Church of Chicago, IL. The Voices of ACME Choir won “The Best Choir in America” in the Verizon Wireless “How Sweet the Sound” choir competition. As the first place winner, they took home the top prize of $25,000.


The 2nd place winner was Detroit’s winner, Burning Bush International Ministries of Ypsilanti, Michigan. The 2nd place prize was $15,000.


The 3rd place (People’s Choice Award) went to Atlanta West Pentecostal Church Choir. The 3rd place prize was $5,000.







Celebrity guests at the finale were host Donald Lawrence, and judges Marvin Sapp, Gabrielle Union, and Hezekiah Walker.









DG BACK STAGE

             

              Actor Clifton Powell & Friend                 Actress Essence of “Half & Half”


               

 Max Siegel,  Marvin Sapp, & Michael Williams        Ricky Dillard, Renee, & Hezekiah

                    
             Renee & Comedian John Grey                         Max Siegel & Karen

  


                

             Ricky Dillard & Renee                             Renee & Pastor Shelby of Burning Bush

       

                      
      DG’s Karen, Renee, & Brenda                          R&B Artist NeYO  & Brenda


 Photos By Karen Hunt-Barker