McDonald's 'Inspiration Celebration Gospel' Tour 2013 Features Smokie Norful, Tamela Mann and others

McDonald's Seventh Annual 'Inspiration Celebration Gospel' Tour, which began on May 9 and runs through August 30, features a variety music within the genre of gospel, with headliner Smokie Norful, contemporary gospel musician Tamela Mann, hip-hop stylings of Lecrae, and traditional/contemporary gospel performances by John P. Kee and Vickie Winans.

Norful, who has also headlined the tour in the past, said in a press release, "I'm elated to again headline the McDonald's Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour.  From sharing some of my new music to introducing my son Ashton's career on the tour, this is a phenomenal season in life. And, I'm excited to share it with fans across the nation, all in an effort to give back," according to Elev8.

"I'm humbled to share the stage with legendary gospel artists," said Lecrae, 2013 Grammy winner for Best Gospel Album, according to Elev8. "It's amazing to see a classic brand like McDonald's stand behind a message that's needed in communities everywhere. Gospel fans are in for an experience I believe they'll talk about long after the tour."

This free concert series emphasizes giving back to the community.  Audience members at each concert learn about how Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC®) works to help children and families worldwide and have an opportunity to participate in an offering for the charity.

"Giving back to those around us is crucial, especially with the recent tough times our families and communities have faced," said performer, Vickie Winans, according to theHuffington Post.  "Now more than ever, our communities need to know we are there for them, and that's something the McDonald's Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour has set out to do. I'm honored to take part in the cause, and I look forward to bringing joy and laughter to everyone who attends the concerts."

"For generations, McDonald's has continued its efforts to be deeply rooted - and invested - in the areas we serve, both in restaurants and in the community," Rob Jackson, the U.S. marketing director for McDonald's U.S. said, according to Elev8. "McDonald's is committed to giving back and we're honored to bring messages of joy and hope to thousands of our neighbors."

The tour began in Washington D.C. and will continue to work its way across the country to ultimately end up in Dallas, Texas, according to the event website.  The next appearance on the tour will take place on June 6, in The Bill Harris Arena, in Birmingham, Alabama.  From there it will continue on to make appearances in Atlanta, Detroit, Chicago, Louisville and Dallas.  Tickets remain available for all upcoming events.

Upcoming Tour Dates and Locations (http://www.mcdonalds.com/):

June 6th- The Bill Harris Arena, Birmingham, AL

June 7th- Greater Travelers Rest Baptist Church, Atlanta, GA

June 21st- Second Ebenezer Baptist Church, Detroit, MI

June 22nd- Chicago Gospel Festival, Chicago, IL

July 3rd- Full Gospel Baptist Conference, Louisville, KY

August 30th- Mega Fest, Dallas, TX

Tags : 'Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour' McDonald's Smokie Norful Tamela Mann Lecrae John P. Kee