Overview
Tamela Jean Mann (born June 9, 1966) is an American gospel singer and actress. She is known for her powerful vocal delivery and for bridging gospel music with mainstream audiences.
Tamela Jean Mann (born June 9, 1966) is an American gospel singer and actress. She is known for her powerful vocal delivery and for bridging gospel music with mainstream audiences.

Mann began her professional music career as a vocalist with the gospel collective Kirk Franklin and the Family. While with the group she sang lead on tracks such as “Now Behold the Lamb” and “Lean on Me,” the latter featuring artists Mary J. Blige, Crystal Lewis, R. Kelly and Bono. After several years with Franklin, Mann launched a solo career, releasing her debut solo album Gotta Keep Movin in 2005, followed by The Master Plan in 2009. These releases established her as a solo gospel artist. Mann has also pursued acting, appearing in film and television projects, though the provided sources focus on her musical work.
Mann’s style is rooted in contemporary gospel, emphasizing soulful vocals and uplifting lyrical themes. Her early work with Kirk Franklin exposed her to a blend of traditional gospel and urban contemporary influences, which she carries into her solo recordings. Collaborations with mainstream artists on tracks like “Lean on Me” illustrate her openness to cross‑genre partnerships, while her solo material remains firmly within the gospel tradition.
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Tamela Mann records and performs as a solo artist; there is no permanent band or group listed in the supplied sources.
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Mann’s contributions to gospel music include prominent vocal performances with Kirk Franklin’s ensemble and a successful solo career that has produced chart‑topping gospel releases. Her song “Take Me To The King” is widely recognized as a modern gospel anthem. Beyond music, she has built a reputation as a respected actress, further expanding her influence within the entertainment industry.