City of Los Angeles Honors Dr. Judith McAllister
In a stirring tribute as part of its 2025 Black Music Month observance, the Los Angeles City Council honored Dr. Judith Christie McAllister—widely revered as the “First Lady of Praise and Worship”—for her four decades of groundbreaking leadership in gospel music and ministry.
Led by Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson, the ceremony featured remarks from Councilmembers Heather Hutt and Curren Price, along with gospel radio legend Aundrae Russell of KJLH.
“There’s no better time—and no better woman—to honor than Dr. Judith McAllister,” said Harris-Dawson. “In a year when Black Music Month is once again ignored nationally, we’re proud to lift up gospel, the good news music, and one of its greatest voices. Her work has shaped the spiritual sound of this city and beyond.”
“Dr McAllister doesn’t just create music,” Hutt added. “She creates ministry, music that speaks to your soul. I believe we felt it today. Her voice is a sound of hope, healing and empowerment for so many people across the country, and we thank you, doctor for your devotion, your unwavering commitment to the legacy of black music and but more importantly, for bringing us peace and healing through your music.”
McAllister, known for her musical and spiritual leadership at West Angeles Church of God in Christ and as former president of the COGIC International Music Department, accepted the honor with humility and deep gratitude.
“This recognition is far greater than any one individual,” McAllister said. “It echoes the stories of countless voices once silenced that now sing. Gospel music is more than rhythm, melody and harmony. It is a lifetime and a lifeline, a spiritual anchor. It carries the cry of the oppressed. It speaks courage to the weary and offers strength to those who choose to believe, even while burdened by life’s weight. It leads us straight to Jesus, the source of our hope, the source of our faith and the source of our love.”
Aside from the city council and her family, McAllister expressed her gratitude for Bishop Charles Blake for entrusting her with what God showed him and for his leadership.
“The reason I am affectionately called the First Lady of praise and worship is not solely due to my personal accomplishments,” she explained, “it is also because I simply obeyed and worked diligently, along with others, to put Bishop Blake’s vision into action.”
The celebration highlighted not just her musical excellence, but her enduring impact as a mentor, worship leader, and builder of communities rooted in faith, healing, and service.
