GRAND Magazine - Fall 2022 - 20

cover story
could not tell him face-to-face, dad could smile, knowing that he was spending his
time wisely on his passion, his family.
My father had a special relationship with each of my brothers and sisters,
seven of us total (five boys and two girls). Unfortunately, two of my brothers have
passed, Kevyn and Ramsey III. Additionally, he enjoyed spending time with each of
his seventeen grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. My mom Jan continues
his legacy of faith, hope, and love as the matriarch of our family.
ABOuT THe AuTHOr
Ramsey Lewis celebrating his 70th birthday with his family.
"
My Dad would say that after my grandfather
got home from work,
he would ask, 'How did you spend your time?
"
Dad also loved playing basketball, and we'd play pick-up games with him
in the backyard. With my siblings and his grand and great-grandchildren, Dad was
always present. Whenever we called him, he'd make it seem like he was waiting by
the phone for our call. Ready to hear, listen and discover life with us! He and Mom
would come to the dance recitals. They would come to our music showcases. He
was there for the birthdays and every other celebration in between.
Dad's heart was full of love for his family. I think that he heard my grandfather
asking him every day, " What did you do with your time, Sonny? " and although dad
20 GRAND Summer 2022
Carrying forward a vibrant legacy of music and ministry, Rev. Bobby Lewis brings a
refreshing new flavor to the contemporary urban gospel.
The son of legendary jazz pianist Ramsey Lewis, Bobby studied music in high
school at the Chicago Academy for the Arts. He then attended the University of Miami
School of Music before moving to Los Angeles to work as a professional drummer.
While in L.A., Bobby jumped head-first into the music industry by working at Death
Row Records and performed live as the drummer with Immature on the " We Got It "
Tour and with Jon. B. on the " Cool Relax " " promo " Tour. In 2005, Bobby contributed
vocals to his brother Frayne's self-titled album, and he's also written and performed
on his father's albums throughout the years.
Rev. Bobby Lewis and his wife Crystal are former
members at J.W. James A.M.E church in Maywood,
Ill., which was co-founded by Bobby's aunt and Ramsey's
sister, the Rev. Dr. Lucille Lewis Jackson. Bobby launched
Joy Life Center, a community and worship facility, this
year. His ministry produces, creates, and spreads content
rooted in the gospel focusing on the JOY of the LORD
as our strength (Nehemiah 8:10) in our journey through
life... precisely what his EP " I'm a Worshipper " is all
about. Bobby's work was recognized by the Gospel
Choice Music Awards taking home Best Gospel House
Song of the Year at this year's awards show and as the
headline performer at the Ravinia Festival on June 19th in
celebration of his father Ramsey Lewis. Bobby and Crystal
have three incredible children: Jordan, Niya, and Asia.
Rev. Bobby Lewis, minister,
singer, songwriter, and
producer.
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GRAND Magazine - Fall 2022

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