Origin of Sacred Steel Conventions

Marcus Jerome Hardy of Crescent City, Florida, is recognized as the visionary and founder of the first official Sacred Steel Convention, which was established in March 2000.

His mission was to unite sacred steel musicians from the Keith Dominion churches, fostering a space where they could collectively express their devotion to God while sharing their extraordinary musical talents in a single venue.

Since its inception, Hardy’s pioneering efforts have inspired a wave of similar gatherings across the country. Following in his footsteps, distinguished individuals such as Alvin Lee of Kissimmee, Florida; Shane McCormick of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Deacon Richard and Felecia Lett of Monroeville, Alabama; Kashiah and Jewell Hunter of Atlanta, Georgia; and Del and Kelli Grace of Toledo, Ohio have continued this tradition, expanding the reach and influence of sacred steel music within their communities.

Marcus & Kimyetta Hardy

Alvin Lee

Shane McCormick

Richard & Felecia Lett

Kashia & Jewell Hunter

Del Ray & Kelli Grace

FAQS

What is Sacred Steel?

Sacred Steel is an African-American gospel tradition that features the steel guitar in religious services. It originated in Pentecostal churches in the 1930s

Where did Sacred Steel originate?

It developed in the Church of the Living God, particularly in the Keith and Jewell Dominions.

How did Sacred Steel gain popularity?

Sacred Steel gained wider recognition through performances by artists like Robert Randolph, Calvin Cooke, Aubrey Ghent and the Campbell Brothers, who brought the genre to international fame.