Marvin Sapp Brings the Gospel to NPR’s Tiny Desk
Source: ShotByMello / ShotByMello
Marvin Sapp Brings the Gospel to NPR’s Tiny Desk
NPR’s Tiny Desk has undergone an incredible transformation in recent years. What began as intimate performances at a desk in NPR’s Washington, D.C. office has evolved into a premier platform for iconic live music.
The list of unforgettable performances is long, with artists like Usher, Doechii, Raphael Saadiq, Chaka Khan, and Wale all taking their turn at the desk.
And let’s not forget Juvenile’s unforgettable 2023 performance, which turned a simple suggestion on X into one of the greatest moments in Tiny Desk history, with millions tuning in to hear “Back That Thang Up” in a whole new way.
Now, gospel music legend Marvin Sapp joins the ranks of artists who’ve blessed the Tiny Desk stage.
A household name in gospel, Sapp got his start in the ’90s with the group Commissioned, before launching a successful solo career.
His 2007 hit “Never Would Have Made It” became a chart-topping anthem, not only on the Billboard Hot Gospel charts but also in the hearts of millions.
That song, which even inspired a viral trap remix, was a must-see on the Tiny Desk stage.
Source: Marcus Ingram / Getty
Sapp’s performance covered eleven tracks that span nearly three decades of music, starting with “Not the Time, Not the Place” from his 1997 album Grace & Mercy.
He performed beloved songs that have shaped Black gospel music, like “I Believe,” a song so energetic it practically demands a praise dance, and “He Has His Hands On You,” which is sure to move anyone within earshot.
Sapp’s voice resonates deeply with anyone familiar with gospel, invoking the comforting familiarity of a trusted pastor.
But for many in the room, and surely those watching at home, the song everyone was waiting for was “Never Would Have Made It.”
As the camera zooms in on the audience, hands rise, and you can spot the signature “church wave”—a gesture passed down through generations of Black churchgoers.
It’s the kind of performance that brings the spirit, not just through the lyrics, but through the energy of the crowd.
And the viewers at home were just as moved.
The comment section flooded with praise, with one user joking,
“These songs went quadruple platinum in my house.”
Another commenter highlighted the Tiny Desk audience, saying,
“It’s the Black folks in the audience hitting that church wave on ‘Never Would Have Made It.’ Lol. I love us real bad!”
Perhaps the most profound comment came on the final day of Black History Month, when one viewer summed up the collective sentiment:
“Give that person who thought of sending Marvin Sapp an invitation a well-deserved raise!!!!!! We need this right now!!!!!!!!! Who is next up to shout praise!!!!”
Amen to that. Hallelujah!
RELATED: Marvin Sapp Releases R&B Project “If I Were An R&B Singer” [FULL EP]
Marvin Sapp Brings the Gospel to NPR’s Tiny Desk was originally published on ronetlcnaptown.staging.go.ione.nyc