Those who’ve been following this site over the past year already know that we will occasionally introduce Black artists who have shared their gifts of modeling, acting, singing, photography and writings. In 2009 we brought you Kim Coles, Cynda Williams, Tobias Truvillion, Candice Sanders, David Ruffin Jr, Chenoa Maxwell, Cherie Johnson, Chandra Currelley and others. We’re off to a great start with the first guest of 2010: Ms. Latrice Pace of the Anointed Pace Sisters gospel singing group.
The roots of gospel music can be pursued through the academic discipline of ethno-musicology (going back to Europe and Africa), through a study of the 2,000-year history of church music, and through a study of rural folk music traditions, but for practical purposes, gospel music as we know it began in the late 19th century. Rather than to go into the historical perspective of the origin and milestones in gospel music we’d rather kick it directly with one of gospel music’s current generation performers. We introduce to you Ms. Latrice Pace of the Anointed Pace Sisters.
How did you get your start in the music business?
I was born into the business; and to be honest, I wanted nothing to do with music. I felt everybody in the family was already doing it so I needed to do something different. However, my daddy made sure I knew that Gospel music was a family ministry and there was no such thing as “doing something different” J. Once I graduated from high school I began to sing in the group with my sisters. Shortly thereafter I began to travel with my oldest sister, Shun, as her assistant/road manager. I believe serving her for years opened so many other doors to work with various artist as well as the arts.
Tell us about your company L. Pace Entertainment, LLC.
I’ve been in the music industry for 20 years and in the arts (Urban Theater) for about 15 years. I learned early on that I was my own walking/traveling business. So with my experience along with the influence of my mentor Donald Lawrence, I’m learning that it’s not just about having a professional image before people, but it’s important that every aspect of you, your life, your business – be legitimate and professional. I also have future aspirations to mount my own theatrical production, but during this chapter of my life, L. Pace Entertainment, LLC is about being smart in this business of music. I don’t want to do what I do out of necessity, but simply because I love to do it.
You are part of the gospel group The Anointed Pace Sisters. What are some of the biggest challenges working with family?
When I tell you every family has them, EVERY FAMILY HAS THEM. I was recently watching the reality show about The Jacksons and I was astonished because I saw so many parallels. You’re always going to have that person who feels like their voice (opinions) are never heard. You’re always going to have that person who runs back to mother although we all are adults. You’re always going to have that person who is just going to go against the grain no matter what. You’re always going to have that person who seeks the attention (and that can fluctuate from person to person depending on moods), but the thing that keeps us together and make us work is that we are family. We genuinely love one another no matter what. Our foundation is prayer, prayer keeps us humble, thus helping us to find that middle ground and reason. Through our challenges we gain a greater love and respect for one another. Our reward is unity.
You were cast in Tyler Perry’s “What’s Done in the Dark” as the hilarious nurse Nancy. Describe the experience working with a Tyler Perry Production.
I had so much fun. I’ve also worked with Tyler on two prior productions; I Know I’ve Been Changed and one where he partnered with Bishop Jakes entitled Behind Closed Doors. It has been truly amazing to witness his growth and the things that God promised materializing right before my eyes. Working with him (Tyler) has given me hope. It has strengthened me to hold on to every Word that God has spoken over my life because it will manifest. I also came to realize that performing is a ministry and you feel the weight of that every single night. You feel that responsibility to minister hope to someone who may have been laid off and spent their last (dollar) for a laugh or to be inspired and lifted through song. I loved it and look forward to working with him again.
What can our readers look forward to in the future from Latrice?
I recently shot a webisode with Robert Townsend which aired on The Gospel Music Channel so they can look forward to seeing that among other things as it relates to film and television. I’m finally at the place where I’m embracing the possibility of recording. Lastly, Latrice is going to Broadway, so look forward to that!
We appreciate Latrice taking the time to share with us the details of being a “Pace Sister.” We look forward to hearing more from her in the future. As we often do, we close this column with a quote of relevance: “Adopt the Pace of nature; her secret is patience.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson. Joining Latrice’s fan page is just a click away.
Until next time,
Copyright © 2010
FathersFootprints.com 
