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For Immediate Release

Friday, April 1, 2011

Contact(s)

Gail Dent
Associate Director for Public and Media Relations
317/917-6117

HOUSTON -- Multiple award-winning gospel music artist and Houston native Yolanda Adams will perform the National Anthem prior to the first semifinal game of the 2011 Men’s Final Four, Saturday, April 2, at Reliant Stadium in Houston.  The tip-off is 5:09 p.m. Central time, with the National Anthem to be sung at approximately 5:03 p.m.  The National Anthem will be broadcast nationally to millions of viewers as part of CBS’ telecast of the Men’s Final Four.

Adams is one of the most recognized and celebrated names in the music industry, having won four Grammy Awards; four Gospel Music Association Dove Awards; seven NAACP Image Awards; three BET Awards; and one American Music and Soul Train Award in her career.   She has sold more than five million albums and continues to be a sought-after performer for some of the top events in the world.

Adams’ soulful sound is revered by top producers and singers in the industry.  She gained significant attention with her album Mountain High…Valley Low, which went platinum and earned her a Grammy.  She followed with a live album “The Experience,” which netted her another Grammy award.  She’s had noted success with her Christmas collections, which include the song “Hold On” from the album “What a Wonderful Time.”  Other songs that have gained her national attention include “Already Alright,”  “Be Blessed,” “Someone Watching Over You,” “This Too Shall Pass,” and “Victory.”

A graduate of Sterling High School in Houston and of Texas Southern University, Adams began her career as a schoolteacher and a part-time model, eventually turning to singing as her future full-time career.  The singer, songwriter, music producer and actress also can add radio host to her impressive lineup of accomplishments, as the host of the nationally-acclaimed Yolanda Adams Morning Show. 

Adams has performed at the White House, at the Grammy Awards and also has lent her voice to sporting events, having performed the National Anthem at the Bowl Championship Series national championship game between the University of Oklahoma and the University of Florida in 2009.  

Adams released her first book “Points of Power” in 2010 and will release her upcoming CD entitled “Becoming” this spring.

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