By Angela Hayes | Special to the Advertiser

The congregation of Shiloh Baptist Church invites you to hear the testimony and talent of gospel singer Richard Robertson at 5 p.m. April 17.

Former guitar player for the Gaither Homecoming Concerts and opening act for Ivan Parker, Robertson uses “a little rock and roll flavor within the gospel that gives it a unique sound,” he said.

“Every chance we get, we like to get together,” Shiloh Baptist Church Pastor Ernest Fike said. “We’d like to get a good group down to worship with us. It’s a great way to praise the Lord while being entertained.”

Saved at the age of 23, Robertson, who up until then had been traveling down a worldly path, played gigs with the Allman Brothers and Lynyrd Skynyrd in nightclubs and colleges around the Southeast, and at one time played back up for BB King.

“One day it came crashing down,” Robertson said. “I never thought I would play again.”

But the Lord had other plans, he said.

“Three months after I was saved, I was introduced to a quartet,” Robertson said. “I was drawn to their harmony, and they invited me to play with them.”

It would be the first step in his answer to the call of God.

“I love to give my testimony,” Robertson said.

But it is not just a one man act. Richard is accompanied by his wife Wanda, who runs the sound, shares her testimony and sings a few songs as well.

Having previously performed at churches in the area, Robertson is no stranger to Chilton County.

“We were recommended to Mr. Robertson, and we’re happy to have him join us,” Fike said. “He’s got a good spirit, and he loves the Lord.”

For more information or for directions to the church, which is located at 4206 County Road 16 in the Fairview Community, call Fike at (205) 217-1540.

Robertson can be contacted through his website, www.richardrobertsonministry.com.