Famous Oakwood College Alumni
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List of famous alumni from Oakwood College, with photos when available. Prominent graduates from Oakwood College include celebrities, politicians, business ...
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Known as a foundational figure in rock and roll, Richard Wayne Penniman, famously known as Little Richard, was born on December 5, 1932, in Macon, Georgia. Being one of 12 children, his early life was steeped in the rhythms of gospel music, which played an integral role in shaping his flamboyant style and powerful vocals. He began his musical journey as a teenager, performing with various traveling shows and vaudeville acts. His vibrant personality and unique musical style grabbed attention quickly, and he started recording in the early 1950s. Little Richard's breakthrough came in 1955 when he signed with Specialty Records. His first hit, "Tutti Frutti," was released later that year, reaching No. 2 on Billboard's R&B chart, and it was followed by a string of hits over the next several years, including "Long Tall Sally," "Rip It Up," and "Lucille." These records played a significant role in defining the energetic and rebellious spirit of rock and roll. The infectious rhythm, combined with his enthusiastic performance style, made him an exciting and controversial figure in the conservative music world of the 1950s. Although Little Richard enjoyed considerable success, his career was not without its challenges. He abruptly left the music industry in 1957 to become an ordained minister and gospel musician. However, he returned to rock and roll in the mid-1960s. His influence on the music world is indisputable, having inspired countless musicians across different genres, from the Beatles to Prince. Aside from his revolutionary impact on music, Little Richard is also recognized for challenging racial and gender norms in the mid-twentieth century. His legacy continues to be celebrated worldwide, underscoring his place as a true pioneer of rock and roll.

John Franklin Street (born October 15, 1943) is an American politician and lawyer who served as the 97th Mayor of the City of Philadelphia. He was first elected to a term beginning on January 3, 2000, and was re-elected to a second term beginning in 2004. He is a Democrat and became mayor after having served 19 years in the Philadelphia City Council, including seven years as its president, before resigning as required under the Philadelphia City Charter in order to run for mayor. He followed Ed Rendell as mayor, assuming the post on January 3, 2000. Street was Philadelphia's second black mayor. Street floated the possibility of being a candidate for statewide office in Pennsylvania. In light of corruption scandals, those prospects never materialized. Time Magazine listed him as one of the three worst big-city mayors in the United States in 2005.

Clifton Duncan Davis (born October 4, 1945) is an American actor, songwriter, singer, pastor and author. Davis wrote The Jackson 5's No. 2 hit "Never Can Say Goodbye" in 1971. He appeared on Broadway in the musicals Two Gentlemen of Verona and Aladdin. Davis starred in the television shows That's My Mama, Amen and Madam Secretary and many others. He has hosted the Stellar Gospel Music Awards, Gospel Superfest and Lifestyle Magazine. Davis has appeared on the game shows Match Game and Pyramid. And has also appeared in many movies. Davis is a minister of a Baptist church and he has also operated an interdenominational ministry for many years. He has been a guest on the Trinity Broadcasting Network many times. Davis has also written a book about the racism which he experienced while he was growing up.

Brian McKnight, a name synonymous with soul-stirring R&B music, has been an influential figure in the music industry for decades. Born on June 5, 1969, in Buffalo, New York, McKnight's musical journey began at an early age due to his gospel singing family roots. His brother, Claude McKnight III, is a member of the Grammy-winning group Take 6, which played a significant role in shaping Brian's deep-rooted love for music. McKnight's undeniable talent and passion led to his signing with Mercury Records in the early 1990s, marking the beginning of a flourishing career. McKnight's unique blend of smooth jazz-infused R&B catapulted him into the limelight, making him one of the most respected artists in the genre. He has released a string of successful albums, including his self-titled debut in 1992, I Remember You (1995), and Anytime (1997), each showcasing his songwriting prowess, distinctive vocal style, and instrumental skills. Throughout his career, he has received numerous accolishments, with 16 Grammy nominations testament to his talent and influence. Furthermore, his track record extends beyond just singing, as McKnight also made notable contributions as a producer, arranger, and musician. Despite his success in the music industry, McKnight's creative pursuits were not confined to one art form. He ventured into the realm of television, where he hosted the popular American late-night talk show The Brian McKnight Show. Furthermore, he explored the world of Broadway, starring in the production of Chicago in 2007.