The Lifetime Original Movie Robin Roberts Presents: Mahalia is now available for streaming, with or without a cable subscription. Born in New Orleans, Mahalia Jackson began singing at an early age and went on to become one of the most revered gospel figures in U.S. history, melding her music with the civil rights movement. Her recording of the song “Move on Up a Little Higher” sold millions of copies, skyrocketing her to international fame and gave her the opportunity to perform at diverse settings including in front of a racially integrated audience at the prestigious Carnegie Hall and at John F. Kennedy’s inaugural ball. An active supporter of the Civil Rights Movement, Jackson sang at numerous rallies, including the March on Washington in 1963 alongside Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in hopes that her music would encourage and inspire racial equality.
In May 2003, OffBeat’s Geraldine Wyckoff profiled Jackson, writing, “The Mississippi River at the foot of Magazine Street became the baptismal water for 14-year-old Mahalia Jackson. The next day, the youngster, who had already gained a reputation for her strong, clear voice, told her cousin Celie that the Lord had spoken to her and told her to “open my mouth in His name.” Jackson never faltered from that mission, delivering her melodic gospel message around the world. Her great contralto was heard praising the Lord in small Chicago churches and tents throughout the country. She lifted her voice in praise in the grandeur of Carnegie Hall and before international royalty as well as presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy and Johnson.”
From Rock’n Robin Productions and Lincoln Square Productions, Mahalia is executive produced by Robin Roberts of Good Morning America and Linda Berman. Roberts attended Southern Louisiana University and was formerly an anchor on CBS-affiliate WWL-TV. (Her older sister Sally Ann Roberts was also an anchor.) Danielle Brooks, perhaps best known for her work on Orange is the New Black, stars as the legendary crooner. Although the film takes place in the American South, it was shot in Vancouver, BC.
To stream the full movie, click here.
