Biography
Dorothy "Dottie" Peoples, born August 12, 1950, in Dayton, Ohio, is a celebrated American gospel singer renowned for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence[1][6]. The eldest of ten children, Peoples began singing in church and high school choirs, quickly developing her talent and passion for gospel music[2][3]. After graduating, she toured with gospel legend Dorothy Norwood, and briefly performed as a jazz vocalist before returning to her gospel roots upon relocating to Atlanta in 1979[1][3].
Peoples' career flourished in Atlanta, where she became a central figure in the local gospel scene, producing albums for her pastor and church choir, and eventually launching her own solo projects[3][4]. Her breakthrough came with the release of "On Time God" in 1994, which became her signature song and earned her widespread acclaim, including multiple Stellar Awards, Dove Awards, and Grammy nominations[1][3][5]. Peoples is known for her energetic live performances, often backed by vibrant choirs, and her music blends traditional gospel with soulful and jazz influences, earning her the title "Songbird of the South"[1][2][5].
Throughout her career, Dottie Peoples has been recognized as a leader in gospel music, hosting her own radio show, "The Dottie Peoples Showcase," and being inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2003[5]. Her legacy is marked by her commitment to ministry, her influence on contemporary gospel artists, and her enduring impact on the genre through both her recordings and live ministry[5][3].
Fun Facts
- Dottie Peoples was dubbed the "Songbird of the South" for her soulful voice and influence on gospel music[1][5].
- Her album "Live: Featuring 'On Time God'" spent an impressive 112 weeks on the Billboard Top Gospel Albums chart, peaking at #3[1].
- She hosted her own gospel radio show, "The Dottie Peoples Showcase," on WAOK in Atlanta for six years[5].
- Peoples has received multiple Grammy nominations but is especially known for sweeping the Stellar Awards with her signature song "On Time God"[1][3].
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Dorothy Norwood - Gospel pioneer and member of The Caravans; Peoples toured with her after high school, learning from her style and ministry. (Touring performances) [1970s]
Key Collaborators
- Rev. Dr. Jasper Williams, Jr. - Pastor at Salem Baptist Church; Peoples produced albums for him and the church choir, and co-founded Church Door Records. (Church Door Records projects, choir albums) [1980s]
- Shirley Caesar - Gospel legend; Peoples briefly toured with her, gaining exposure to Caesar's influential style. (Touring performances) [Late 1970s]
- The Five Blind Boys from Alabama - Iconic gospel group; Peoples toured with them, further developing her gospel artistry. (Touring performances) [Late 1970s]
Artists Influenced
- Contemporary gospel artists (general) - Peoples' energetic style, ministry focus, and signature songs have inspired a new generation of gospel singers, especially in Atlanta and the Southern U.S. ("On Time God" and other hits) [1990s–present]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| The Rebirth | 2009-01-01 | Album |
| Churchin' With Dottie | 2002-05-14 | Album |
| Count On God | 1996-05-07 | Album |
| God Can & God Will | 1999-03-16 | Album |
| The Rebirth | 2009-01-01 | Album |
| Testify | 1997-07-01 | Album |
| I Got This Live! | 2013-02-05 | Album |
| Show Up & Show Out | 2000-10-17 | Album |
| Live In Memphis "He Said It" | 2005-06-07 | Album |
| The Water I Give | 2003-11-11 | Album |
| Christmas With Dottie | 1995-10-31 | Album |
| The Collection: Songs Of Faith, Hope And Love | 1998-01-01 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Closet Religion (Churchin' With Dottie)
- Oh Lord Let Me Lean On You (Count On God)
- God Can (God Can & God Will)
- Testify (Testify)
- I Want to Be Ready (Show Up & Show Out)
- Little Wooden Church (Song) (Count On God)
- Old Landmark (Live In Memphis "He Said It")
- Handwriting On the Wall (Count On God)
- Jesus What a Wonderful Child (Christmas With Dottie)
- On Time God
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Dottie Peoples has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 14, 2025 | 00:13 | It`s Gonna Be Alrightfrom Churchin` With Dottie | Midnight Music |