Gerald Lee Ricks’ Bio
As a worship architect, conductor and educator, Gerald Lee Ricks enjoys a multifaceted career spanning a unique musical gamut. Gerald, a Florida native but Georgia-raised, holds an Associate of Science in Education from Middle Georgia State University (Macon State College), Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Georgia Southwestern State University, and a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from Townsend School of Music at Mercer University.
Gerald’s distinctive style, creative skill, and bold charisma paved the way for him to become a notable conductor and music director in the Southeastern region. In addition to leading music at various United Methodist connectional events and conferences, Gerald served on the staff of various metro Atlanta United Methodist congregations, including Ousley (Lithonia, GA), Wesley Chapel (McDonough, GA), Glenn Memorial (Atlanta, GA), and Central (Atlanta, GA). He also served as the minister of worship and arts at Brown Baptist Church, one of the largest churches in the Mississippi area with a congregation of 12,000 members.
Gerald has collaborated with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra serving as the assistant director and accompanist of the Gospel Choir producing both The Atlanta Gospel Christmas Concert Series and S. Truett Cathy (Founder of Chick-fil-A) 90th birthday celebration at the Woodrow Arts Center. Gerald also served as the director of the Imani Voices at Candler School of Theology at Emory University. In addition, Gerald vocally collaborated with the National Symphony Orchestra in the production of “Get Out.” Most recently, Gerald designed and led worship for the both the 2021 and 2022 Virginia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church alongside Bishop Sharma Lewis.
Gerald currently serves National City Christian Church as the Director of Worship, Music & Arts. When Gerald is not cooking or creating music, he enjoys reading, fishing, traveling, and spending time with his family. Mr. Ricks is married to Dr. Crystal M. Ricks and they reside in Prince Frederick, MD. They have three beautiful and gifted children: Hudson Daniel, Hannah Storm, & Ahmod Xavier.
