Doris Akers

Doris Akers is probably best known for composting the songs “Sweet, Sweet Sprit,” “Sweet Jesus” and “I Cannot Fail the Lord,” but her multiple talents included recording artist, music arranger and choir director. Akers founded and directed the Sky Pilot Choir and co-wrote “Lord, Don’t Move the Mountain” with her long-time friend, Mahalia Jackson. Akers, who died in 1995, has received many awards, and was honored by the Smithsonian Institute, which labeled her songs and records “National Treasures.”