Katani Sumner at Stonehill

By: Erich Maynard

            Katani Sumner visited Stonehill College for a night full of singing, laughter, and gospel worship, November third.

            Sumner and her band have been together for three years and have been spreading love and happiness though gospel music.

            Sumner engages with the audience and incorporates them and incorporates her audience into being part of her performance. Sumner brought many students from Stonehill College’s campus along with spectators from off campus.

            Sumner, a graduate of Brown University, earned a graduate degree from Harvard University. She became the first African- American Unit Manager in New England.

            Her true calling was the gift of song,that she has spread all throughout the community.

            highlight of Sumner’s music career  included, “Inspirational MC” at the original House of Blues, singing the National anthem at Fenway Park, and being the feature performer at Governor Deval Patrick’s inauguration celebration. Today, Sumner is fronting her own band, where she is the lead singer.

            At Stonehill, Sumner started her performance with a heart felt greeting to her audience, and a quick introduction of herself and the band. Throughout the performance, her smile, and sense of humor never faltered.

            Towards the end of Sumner’s performance, she invited students on stage to join in singing This Little Light of Mine.

            Katherine Reynolds, a freshman at Stonehill College, learned of Sumner’s performance through multiple e-mails, and posters across campus.

            ‘I was very glad that I went, I really enjoyed the performance, my experience was really positive I really enjoyed the interactive nature of the event,” Reynolds said.

            “If I can get a smile out of your face and warm your heart then I've done my job,” Sumner responded when asked what she believes is most beneficial for the audience when watching her perform.

            What does she find the most difficult performing?

            “Well I think as I get older it is remembering the lyrics to be honest with you, but I don't really find it difficult because I'm not afraid to take risks. Even when I mess up I just laugh about it and keep on moving, because its good to show that we aren’t perfect,” Sumner Said.