By Brooks Welch

Grammy-winning singer Ledisi will shine on the silver screen as the iconic Gospel singer, Mahalia Jackson, in an upcoming biopic, ‘Remember Me: The Mahalia Jackson Story.’

As detailed by Shadow and Act, the film stars Ledisi as Jackson, one of the most popular gospel singers in the genre. The film also stars Columbus Short, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Janet Hubert, Vanessa Williams, Corbin Bleu and Keith David. The film is directed by Denise Dowse and executive produced by Ericka Nicole Malone and Vince Allen.

Named after one of Jackson’s signature songs, ‘Remember Me,’ the film, set during the tumultuous period between 1956 and 1963, will chronicle the successful career of Jackson as well as her unique friendship and devotion to Martin Luther King Jr. and her unsung contribution to the Civil Rights Movement, reports Deadline.

Also referred to as the Queen of Gospel, Jackson was pivotal in the encouragement and inspiration of MLK’s famous ‘I Have A Dream’ speech. She often accompanied King to perform at rallies and events and became the silent voice behind the great activist and civic leader.

‘Remember Me: The Mahalia Jackson Story,’ written and executive produced by Ericka Nicole Malone and directed by Denise Dowse, will premiere during the opening night of the 30th annual Pan African Film & Arts Festival in Los Angeles, CA.

Another Mahalia Jackson film, ‘Mahalia’premiered on Lifetime last year starring Danielle Brooks.