From the Director

Who can ever forget the first time they heard Jerry Lawson singing with The Persuasions? His rich, reassuring baritone stirred us – lifted us – and inspired us to sing along in harmony. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever expect to get to know this man personally or to produce a documentary about his extraordinary life.

There was rhythm in everything Jerry did – the way he sang, the way he moved, even the way he talked. Jerry understood timing intuitively – whether in song or in one of his many engaging tales of growing up or being on the road. He was charismatic. He was a force. He was truly unforgettable.

Yet, in addition to being a unique talent, Jerry was also a humble, multi-dimensional man. He was soulful, philosophical, and funny as hell. He was always approachable, willing to give an autograph and eager to help young and upcoming singers in any way possible. He would look right “at” you – and he could look right “through” you to see if you were being truthful. Jerry’s work in recent years with developmentally challenged adults proved the power of his personality. With no formal training in the field, he somehow generated unprecedented responses and love from his clients that defied the expectations of most seasoned professionals.

There are things we all take for granted in life – breath, light, and sound. Jerry offered all these things to us in spades. The poet e. e. cummings once wrote: “I’d rather learn from one bird how to sing than teach ten thousand stars how not to dance.” This was Jerry. He taught us all to sing regardless of our age, our color or our background. He was a modern-day Pied Piper who brought people together and created lasting bonds – not division. Jerry may have thought of himself as ‘Just A Mortal Man’ but he was a giant – a once-in-a-lifetime presence. For me, he was also a close friend. His untimely passing in July 2019 diminishes us all. And though the world may be a little dimmer now and a little quieter – Jerry leaves behind a legacy of music and good will that can surely transcend time and space.

Visit Jerry’s website!

“[Jerry], you have blazed the trail for this whole a cappella thing.”
Shawn Stockman from Boyz II Men – Singer/Songwriter – Record Producer

” I admire the undeniable depth in Jerry’s big voice. A true soul singer…”
Rod Stewart

“To be able to be a part of preserving a special art – A cappella – it means so much to me.”
–Jerry Lawson on A cappella

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