Cory Henry Church Experience

As a Jewish guy from the Valley, whose spiritual awakening to gospel music started with the Doobie Brothers “Jesus is Just Alright” and also the cinematic genius of Sister Act, the Cory Henry “Church Experience” was everything I hoped for and more.

The Cory Henry Church Experience

I was already a Cory Henry convert, after seeing the Grammy-winning organ master live during his 2023 Grammy Jam at the Knitting Factory in NoHo. The “Church Experience” is a monthly residency at The Miracle Theater in Inglewood. Now in its 8th consecutive month, it is more than just amazing music performed by top notch musicians. In addition to being an electrifying fusion of gospel, funk, and jazz, it’s part concert, part spiritual revival, and part neighborhood block party. Moreover, it’s a genuine celebration of community, positivity and purpose, set in motion by a visionary and versatile musician.

Soul Food and Soulful People

The evening kicked off with an optional, but highly recommended, soul food dinner. Served family-style, the meal was excellent. The options included salmon, chicken, or turkey wings as well as stellar mac and cheese, cabbage, and sweet potato. Let’s not forget the necessary chocolate cake and vanilla pudding.

It was during this meal, that I achieved peak insider status. I shared a table with the band’s organ master, Jeremy Jeffers and his lovely partner, Diamond Kendra. I’m pretty sure that makes me an honorary Apostle. The series was inspired by Henry’s 2025 Grammy Award-winning album, Church. It is truly family-friendly and designed to create a joyful, communal atmosphere.

The Service Begins

The spiritual energy was notable from the start. Host Jor Él Quinn—a platinum-certified songwriter and award-nominated actor—welcomed us with incredible energy. I may be a Jew, but I appreciate all forms of uplifting spiritual celebration rooted in love and compassion. Quinn acknowledged the struggles many in the audience might be facing, and he made it clear that this event would bring us all comfort.

Guest Artists

The full band with Henry’s 30+ member Apostles Community Choir (led by the fantastic Matia Celeste Washington) filled the stage, but not immediately.

The celebration began with several guest artists who were stellar. Five-time Grammy nominee Kenyon Dixon wowed the crowd with a stunning, soulful take on The Stylistics’ “People Make the World Go Round.” Next, Tamara Jade (an independent artist and The Voice contestant who earned her season’s first four-chair turn) proved she is a master show-person. She got everyone on their feet, as she made her way into the audience.

Cory Henry Band

The top-notch band, featuring players like guitarist Erick Walls and drummer Stanley Rudolph, captivated the audience with their extraordinary chops. The repertoire was a powerful mix of songs from the Church album (like “Another Day” and “Burdens Down”), classic gospel covers (“Healed,” “I’m Available to You”), along with a couple new tracks. Cory seemed to be in a trance at points, dancing, laughing, singing and playing the keys. No one on stage seemed ready to end the show.

The Takeaway

The Miracle Theater in Inglewood California was lit up by Cory Henry, his choir, and his band for a full two hours of spiritual and musical healing. Henry himself called this residency “the best thing he has ever done,” and it shows. The crowd was on their feet for most of the show—dancing, singing and raising their hands.

If you are looking for an experience that will genuinely cheer you up, lift your spirits, and provide a much needed shot of optimism, go see “The Church Experience.” You will leave feeling inspired, healed, and ready to get down on some mac and cheese.

Visit the Miracle Inglewood website to find out about the next Cory Henry “Church Experience” – https://www.themiracleinglewood.com/

See Cory’s website for more info – https://coryhenry.com/