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James Cleveland: The King of Gospel - Born in Chicago, the Rev. James Cleveland was a Gospel star from very early on in his life. Rev. Cleveland started singing so early that he began as a soprano as a child and eventually emerged as an adult with a distinct raspy voice that quickly became his signature. (Photo: Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)

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Musical Prowess - In the 1950s Rev. Cleveland became known as a composer and was a sought-after source in the Gospel industry. He went on to work with the "Queen of Gospel" Albertina Walker, who gave him his very first opportunity to record music. (Photo: Paramount Pictures)

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Solo Ambitions - After singing as a member of the Caravans, the Gospel All-Stars and the Gospel Chimes, James Cleveland broke out as a solo star in 1959 with his own version of Ray Charles' "Hallelujah I Love Her So." (Photo: Savoy Records)

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History Maker - Rev. Cleveland was a trailblazer so much so that he was the first Gospel star to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. (Photo: Savoy Records)

Photo By Photo: Savoy Records

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Founding Father - Rev. Cleveland is the co-founder of the Gospel Music Workshop of America, which has over 30,000 members and 150 chapters. A notable member of the organization is John P. Kee. (Photo: Savoy Records)

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Legacy - Rev. James Cleveland passed away in 1991, but his legacy lives on through his work in the Gospel community and the way that he revolutionized the way that the world hears the genre.(Photo: David Redfern/Redferns)