TSU’s New Direction Gospel Choir Crowned Best HBCU Choir at National Competition

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University’s New Direction Gospel Choir has claimed the top prize in the inaugural Best HBCU Choir category at How Sweet the Sound, a national gospel music competition held May 24 at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. The choir walked away with a total of $11,000 in prize money, including $1,000 for also winning the People’s Choice Award.

The Choir Master, Justin Butler, led the choir of more than 30 TSU students who delivered a show-stopping performance of “I’m Saved” by Dexter Walker and Zion Movement. Their energy and excellence secured the two titles over other HBCU finalists, including Florida A&M University and Virginia State University.

Jubilant members of the New Direction Gospel Choir perform “I’m Saved” at How Sweet the Sound national gospel music competition held in Washington, D.C., directed by Justin Butler.

“This was our third time performing at How Sweet the Sound, so I was determined,” said Butler, who has led the choir for 15 years. “To be able to give our students at TSU this kind of experience is second to none. This win is one of the many highlights and accomplishments we’ve had as a choir.”

Butler noted that this historic win is one that students will reflect on for a long time. “With this win, I look forward to even more light shining on TSU, our efforts, our dedication, and the talent of our musically inclined students,” he said. “Anything that puts our university at the forefront, we’re here for it.”

While the national spotlight is new for some students, this isn’t New Direction’s first taste of fame. The choir also participated in How Sweet the Sound in 2012 and 2023 and has a long-standing legacy of excellence in gospel music. Past accolades include being named the “Nation’s Best Gospel Choir” at the 2015 National College Choir Explosion in Louisville, Kentucky. Internationally, the choir performed at the Vatican for the late Pope Francis during a European tour in 2018 and was featured on BET’s hit show Sunday Best in 2019.

New Direction Gospel Choir after winning Best HBCU Choir and People’s Choice Award at How Sweet The Sound music competition.

The May 24 performance will air on FOX Soul this summer as part of a star-studded event hosted by Grammy Award-winning producer Donald Lawrence. Judges included gospel powerhouses Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Ricky Dillard, Jekalyn Carr, J.J. Hairston, and Jonathan McReynolds.

This win adds to TSU’s growing reputation as a hub for musical excellence and student talent. It also reflects the university’s broader commitment to supporting student-led arts and music as part of a well-rounded college experience. New Direction will continue performing throughout the year with additional appearances and engagements.