Calling all the saints!

To close out Black History Month, NPR welcomed gospel legend Marvin Sapp to the Tiny Desk stage on February 28, transforming the office into a full-blown sanctuary of praise and worship.

Sapp, affectionately known as “The Bishop,” has long been a transformative figure in gospel music. From his early days with the groundbreaking 1990s gospel group Commissioned to his creation of timeless anthems such as “Never Would Have Made It,” his influence on gospel culture is profound and enduring.

During the intimate Tiny Desk performance, Sapp was joined by his band and backup singers, delivering stirring renditions of fan favorites, including “Praise Him in Advance,” “My Testimony,” and, of course, “Never Would Have Made It.” His presence brought both energy and reflection, creating a spiritual experience that resonated deeply with viewers.

Reflecting on the performance, Sapp shared on Instagram:

“After 30+ years in this genre, it still humbles me that people find my voice, my perspective, and my melodies relevant. Longevity in this industry isn’t promised, and to still be invited into these spaces, to still have something to say that connects, it means everything.”

Marvin Sapp’s Tiny Desk appearance not only celebrated his remarkable career but also underscored the enduring power of gospel music to inspire, uplift, and unite audiences. As he continues to bridge generations through his artistry, Sapp’s contributions remain a testament to faith, resilience, and the timeless impact of gospel.