Shortly after graduating from high school, Tangela founded her gospel group, Tan and The Violinetts. She ministered with the group for more than 30 years before joining her late father, Rev. John Wilkins, and her two sisters in continuing their family’s gospel music legacy.

Tangela also established Stop the Violence, a children’s choir that mentored and trained young people between the ages of six and eighteen. Through music, she helped build confidence, character, and faith in the next generation.

Her musical journey has included songwriting, arranging, producing, recording background vocals, and sharing the stage with respected gospel artists. She was also honored to provide background vocals on Rev. Al Green’s recording, I Found a Reason.

MERGE: What has your music career consisted of?

Tangela: My music career began at an early age. At 18 or 19 years old, I recorded my first record—a 45—with my family group, The Violinetts. That experience laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong ministry through music.

In 1988, I released my most recognized project, God Will Brighten Up My Darkest Night, a recording that blended traditional and contemporary gospel music. The title song resonated with audiences everywhere.

As I joined my father and family in ministry, I had the privilege of working alongside my father and his producers on two of his recording projects. Those experiences broadened my musical knowledge and allowed me to grow as both a vocalist and arranger.

In 1999, I released my second CD, A Change Is Coming My Way, another project that featured a blend of traditional and contemporary gospel music. Every song on the album was written and arranged by me, and I was honored to work with several well-known producers and musicians who helped bring the vision to life.

Throughout my career, I have recorded background vocals, co-arranged music, and collaborated with both gospel and secular artists. I have also been blessed to share the stage with some of gospel music’s most respected artists, including John P. Kee, The Williams Brothers, and Shirley Caesar.

It has been an honor to see how my music has touched lives, encouraged believers, and inspired fellow artists over the years.

After the passing of my husband in 2024, I found healing and renewed purpose through music. I returned to the recording studio to record the song I’ll Be Praying for You. What began as a personal expression of faith and encouragement became a testimony of God’s sustaining grace during one of the most difficult seasons of my life. The song reflects my commitment to continue ministering hope, healing, and the love of Christ through music.

“What began as a personal expression of faith and encouragement became a testimony of God’s sustaining grace during one of the most difficult seasons of my life.”