Valerie Dawkins

Lusby, MD

$200 - $2000

Travels up to 200 miles

Get a free quick quote
Promotional video thumbnail 1 for Valerie Dawkins

I'm Sure It's You - Shelea Frazier

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All Good People WPAS feat. Valerie Dawkins

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Valerie sings Oh Happy Day with Dr. Edwin Hawkins

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Never Felt This Way - Brian McKnight

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Guest Feedback For an a Capella Performance of The Lord's Prayer

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Singing a bride down the aisle!

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Backstage at The Kennedy Center with Dr. Edwin Hawkins

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with Real Talk Kim

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With Joann Rosario Condrey

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Award-winning wedding singer!

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Passionate about the music!

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Destined for great things!

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Overview

I am a vocalist who has vast experience in providing stirring performances for decades! With or without music, I possess the demonstrated ability to move and inspire an audience.
I usually sing with performance tracks and have my own sound equipment and technician (if needed). I also use a keyboardist when requested, but have found that the full instrumentation of a track is preferable to clients in producing the experience they desire. But my goal is to satisfy every client so I am willing to meet any request, including learning your special song(s)! Quality service is my motto!


Reviews

61 reviews

Small thumbnail image for reviewer Bernadine J.

Bernadine J.

November 16, 2024
Verified review

It's All About Praise

Beautiful songbird and minister who sings from the heart, and gives all praises to God.

Hired as: Gospel Singer

Small thumbnail image for Valerie Dawkins

Valerie Dawkins

Thanks so much for your kind words! It was my pleasure to support your event. 🙏🏽❤️ God bless!


Small thumbnail image for reviewer Donna C. B.

Donna C. B.

February 17, 2024
Verified review

Valerie has a voice of an angel.

I wanted a gospel singer for my husband's memorial service. Someone who could truly help with making this a celebration of life. Valerie did just that with her amazing voice and thoughtful words of encouragement. I am so thankful I found her and will always be grateful to her for her participation in the service. Thank you!!

Hired as: Gospel Singer


Small thumbnail image for reviewer Jorge S.

Jorge S.

December 25, 2022
Verified review

Valerie Made our Christmas Eve Service Special

I Pastor a church in Annapolis, MD, and we invited Valerie to lead our Christmas Eve service worship. She made our service very special with the beautiful gift of her voice but also her encouraging spirit and personality. We recomend her to anyone out there who wants to make their event a special expereience.

Hired as: Praise & Worship Leader


Small thumbnail image for reviewer Sadat I.

Sadat I.

November 15, 2022
Verified review

She is nice, professional and kindhearted woman

She showed up with a warm smile and killed it

Hired as: Singing Telegram


Small thumbnail image for reviewer Lila A. C.

Lila A. C.

September 24, 2022
Verified review

Perfect.

Highly recommend.

Hired as: Gospel Singer

Write a review

Booking information

Price range: $200 - $2000

Languages: English

Gig length: 15 - 240 minutes

Insurance: Yes

What to expect

I believe former clients can tell you best:
Valerie Dawkins was wonderful we truly enjoyed her singing. And her singing was profound, truly she has a beautiful voice. She was kind enough to learn a song dear to my heart in a short time period and sing it the day of the ceremony. I would recommend her to the White House to sing at their celebrations and ceremony. Truly it was the right choice to have her come and sing. All I can say thank you Valerie. Pastor Pamela JP Martin -- Pamela M, Silver Spring, MD, 9/29/2012
Valerie was so Amazing that most of my guests thought it was a CD Playing!!! When they realized she was singing live, they all wanted a business card :) Valerie took time to get to know me as a person and made sure my wedding ceremony was perfect. I look forward to using her services again in the future!!!! -- Natalie C, Philadelphia, PA, 10/7/2012
Ms. Dawkins was a wonderful surprise for my husband's 50th birthday party. Valerie and I communicated via email and phone before the event and she went above my expectations. She had to drive well over an hour to reach us, she arrived ahead of schedule & worked with the staff to ensure my surprise gift of song. When she preformed the entire place came to a stop, all eyes were on her. My husband was very moved. My favorite part was at the end of the song Valerie added a personal note of love from me to my husband in keeping with my song of choice. Thank you, Thank you, Thank You!!! -- Sherry P, Easton, MD, 9/5/2012

About

When she sings…people stop what they are doing to listen. When she sings…people get goose bumps. When she sings…people are moved to tears. When she sings…people want more!

The powerful vocals of Valerie Dawkins have been known to captivate and inspire audiences across the country. For more than 3 decades, this anointed Singer-Songwriter has performed at various church events, weddings, corporate events, and a host of other occasions. In fact, from the department store to the local beauty salon, there is hardly any environment in which Valerie has been that she hasn't been asked to sing! Her voice has been said to contain "a certain magic", possessing the ability to move the spirit and soothe the soul. Her versatility is evident in her ability to effectively use her instrument in many music genres. But whether gospel, R & B, or pop, Valerie recognizes that she is accountable to the "Giver" of the gift in its use. The rich, sultry tones in her voice are reminiscent of such powerhouse vocalists as Aretha Franklin, Mahalia Jackson, and Whitney Houston, to name a few. It has been said that she must have a "microphone in her throat"!

While in college, she gave a full concert accompanied by a live band. She has worked as a session vocalist for various recording projects. Valerie has appeared as a guest soloist on a Singles' Cruise where Gospel artist Smokie Norful was the featured artist. She also lent her talents to the 2008 Annual Foster Youth Benefit Concert hosted by W.H.A.L.E.R.'s Creation at the Hard Rock Cafe (DC). Recently, Valerie was selected as one of ten finalists to compete in the Budweiser Superfest Opening Act Contest, and came in 2nd place. She is currently the Worship Leader at the Spirit of Elijah Kingdom Church in Fort Washington, MD, where she has been privileged to serve in this capacity since the church's inception in 1990.

In addition to being an accomplished singer, Ms. Dawkins has written many songs – for praise and worship, for weddings, and even songs in celebration of the transition to eternity. Her creative talents have also been expressed through original poetry, the narration of dance recitals, playwriting, and even a Christian comedy stand-up routine!

Be it with live music, accompaniment tracks or a capella, Valerie Dawkins is sure to deliver the goods. Due to a technical malfunction at one wedding venue, Valerie had to sing with no music. When it was all over, the satisfied couple ended up giving her the biggest tip she'd ever received. Truly, it's the anointing that makes the difference!

Valerie is working towards recording her first solo project in the coming year. Possessing the right mix of pure, raw talent and a wealth of experience, Valerie Dawkins is sure to make your event special and memorable. Book her today and find out for yourself what happens...when she sings!

Additional booking notes

My umbrella company is Dawkins Communications, LLC and we are insured. I have my own sound equipment, which includes two cordless mics. I take pride in my sound so my sound technician is always on hand to ensure the best quality possible.

If there is a need for MC services or a DJ, Dawkins Communication, LLC can meet those needs as well! Work samples provded upon request.

Past booked events

June 2025

06

Friday

Funeral/Memorial Service

11:00am - 11:45am

Hyattsville, MD

November 2024

15

Friday

Fundraiser

7:00pm - 8:00pm

Waldorf, MD

April 2024

21

Sunday

Birthday Party

2:00pm - 3:00pm

Upper Marlboro, MD

January 2024

24

Wednesday

Funeral/Memorial Service

9:30pm - 9:45pm

Fairfax, VA

April 2023

08

Saturday

Funeral/Memorial Service

11:00am - 12:00pm

Temple Hills, MD

December 2022

24

Saturday

Worship Service

4:00pm - 5:00pm

Annapolis, MD

November 2022

12

Saturday

Birthday Party

4:30pm - 4:45pm

Washington, DC

October 2022

29

Saturday

Birthday Party

1:00pm - 1:30pm

Arlington, VA

September 2022

10

Saturday

Funeral/Memorial Service

11:30am - 1:00pm

Washington, DC

August 2022

13

Saturday

Funeral/Memorial Service

11:00am - 12:00pm

Dunn Loring, VA

06

Saturday

Birthday Party

12:00pm - 12:15pm

Alexandria, VA

June 2022

13

Monday

Nonprofit Event

9:00am - 9:15am

Arlington, VA

April 2022

28

Thursday

Birthday Party

10:00am - 10:15am

Arlington, VA

16

Saturday

Funeral/Memorial Service

1:30pm - 2:00pm

Hyattsville, MD

08

Friday

Personal Occasion

11:00am - 12:00pm

Hyattsville, MD

October 2021

22

Friday

Worship Service

9:00am - 10:00am

Indian Head, MD

01

Friday

Funeral/Memorial Service

2:00pm - 3:30pm

Forestville, MD

September 2021

25

Saturday

Funeral/Memorial Service

11:00am - 12:30pm

Washington, DC

June 2021

19

Saturday

Funeral/Memorial Service

11:00am - 11:15am

Herndon, VA

11

Friday

Funeral/Memorial Service

12:30pm - 2:00pm

Alexandria, VA

05

Saturday

Funeral/Memorial Service

12:00pm - 1:00pm

Annapolis, MD

March 2021

06

Saturday

Birthday Party

10:00pm - 10:30pm

Woodbridge, VA

January 2021

29

Friday

Funeral/Memorial Service

10:30am - 11:00am

Brentwood, MD

15

Friday

Funeral/Memorial Service

11:00am - 12:00pm

Washington, DC

November 2020

21

Saturday

Funeral/Memorial Service

12:30pm - 1:00pm

Nottingham, MD

October 2020

17

Saturday

Funeral/Memorial Service

11:00pm - 11:15pm

Hyattsville, MD

January 2020

07

Tuesday

Funeral/Memorial Service

12:00pm - 12:30pm

Baltimore, MD

December 2019

25

Wednesday

Birthday Party

5:00pm - 5:15pm

Arlington, VA

14

Saturday

Nonprofit Event

11:00am - 12:30pm

Bowie, MD

October 2019

26

Saturday

Funeral/Memorial Service

2:00pm - 3:30pm

Alexandria, VA

September 2019

28

Saturday

Birthday Party

8:00pm - 8:45pm

Bethesda, MD

02

Monday

Dinner Party

12:30pm - 12:45pm

Timonium, MD

May 2019

18

Saturday

Birthday Party

7:00pm - 7:45pm

Greenbelt, MD

April 2019

05

Friday

Birthday Party

5:30pm - 5:45pm

Alexandria, VA

March 2019

12

Tuesday

Funeral/Memorial Service

9:30am - 12:30pm

Washington, DC

October 2018

13

Saturday

Wedding Engagement

8:30pm - 8:45pm

Baltimore, MD

August 2018

11

Saturday

Wedding Ceremony

1:30pm - 2:15pm

Washington D.C., DC

July 2018

06

Friday

Wedding Engagement

7:00pm - 7:15pm

Alexandria, VA

June 2018

16

Saturday

Anniversary Party

3:00pm - 3:30pm

Woodbridge, VA

April 2018

20

Friday

Funeral/Memorial Service

3:00pm - 3:30pm

Baltimore, MD

October 2017

28

Saturday

Birthday (Adult)

12:30pm - 2:00pm

Chevy Chase, MD

June 2017

10

Saturday

Wedding Ceremony

3:00pm - 3:30pm

Silver Spring, MD

May 2017

17

Wednesday

Funeral/Memorial Service

8:30am - 9:30am

Arlington, VA

January 2017

18

Wednesday

Worship Service

10:30pm - 12:00am (Thu)

Stafford, VA

November 2016

12

Saturday

Wedding Ceremony

3:00pm - 4:00pm

Silver Spring, MD

October 2016

09

Sunday

Dinner Party

6:00pm - 9:00pm

Silver Spring, MD

September 2016

02

Friday

Wedding Ceremony

6:00pm - 7:00pm

Pasadena, MD

July 2016

31

Sunday

Wedding Ceremony

12:30pm - 1:30pm

Washington, DC

19

Tuesday

Funeral/Memorial Service

11:00am - 11:15am

Arlington, VA

June 2016

25

Saturday

Wedding Ceremony

3:30pm - 4:30pm

Annapolis, MD

February 2016

14

Sunday

Wedding Ceremony

1:00pm - 6:00pm

Baltimore, MD

December 2015

12

Saturday

Holiday Party (Christmas)

7:00pm - 12:00am (Sun)

Upper Marlboro, MD

November 2015

20

Friday

Funeral/Memorial Service

11:00am - 12:00pm

Upper Marlboro, MD

July 2015

27

Monday

Funeral/Memorial Service

11:00am - 11:30am

Severna Park, MD

25

Saturday

Funeral/Memorial Service

3:00pm - 4:30pm

Washington, DC

March 2015

22

Sunday

Birthday Party

5:00pm - 9:00pm

Washington D.C., DC

December 2014

20

Saturday

Funeral Service

11:00am - 12:30pm

Washington D.C., DC

September 2014

12

Friday

Funeral Service

10:30am - 1:00pm

Arlington, VA

March 2014

23

Sunday

Wedding Ceremony

4:00pm - 5:00pm

Alexandria, VA

December 2013

28

Saturday

Funeral Service

11:00am - 12:00pm

Forestville, MD

October 2013

30

Wednesday

Other

12:00pm - 1:00pm

Washington, DC

26

Saturday

Other

4:00pm - 4:30pm

Washington, DC

September 2013

21

Saturday

Church Service

10:00am - 3:00pm

Havelock, NC

May 2013

18

Saturday

Other

5:00pm - 9:00pm

Norfolk, VA

February 2013

14

Thursday

Other

6:00pm - 6:15pm

Washington, DC

January 2013

05

Saturday

Funeral Service

10:00am - 12:00pm

Oxon Hill, MD

December 2012

28

Friday

Fundraiser

7:00pm - 8:30pm

Washington, DC

Set list

This is by no means an exhaustive list. Besides, clients are continually adding to it as I learn their requests!

Happy - Pharell Williams
I'm Sure It's You - Shelea Frazier
A Couple of Forevers - Chrisette Michele
Love Is You - Chrisette Michele
I Love the Lord - Whitney Houston
I Will Always Love You - Whitney Houston
His Eye is on the Sparrow - public domain
Great Is Thy Faithfulness - public domain
He's Concerned - CeCe Winans
Yesterday - Mary Mary
He's Been Faithful - Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir
Bless Me - Donald Lawrence
I Won't Complain - Paul Jones
Every Prayer - Israel Houghton
Never Would Have Made It - Marvin Sapp
He Saw the Best In Me - Marvin Sapp
I Desire More - Crystal Aiken
You Are Good - Israel & New Breed
Because of Who You Are - Martha Munizzi
Breathe - Michael W. Smith
Alpha & Omega - Israel & New Breed
Make the Praise Glorious - Martha Munizzi
I Just Want to Praise You - Maurette Brown Clark
Great Is Your Mercy - Donnie McClurkin
Oh Give Thanks - Judith McAllister
I Will Bless the Lord - Byron Cage
Flesh of My Flesh - Leon Patillo
The Lord's Prayer - public domain
The One He Kept For Me - Maurette Brown Clark
I Believe In You and Me - Whitney Houston
Sweet Love - Anita Baker
Inseparable - Natalie Cole
Unforgettable - Nat King Cole
At Last - Etta James
Sweet Thing - Chaka Khan
There's Hope - India Arie
Forever For Always For Love - Laylah Hathaway
Here I Am - Leona Lewis
Hero - Mariah Carey
Love On Top - Beyonce
One One - Beyonce
It's Love - Jill Scott
For the Love of You - Isley Brothers
You and I - Stevie Wonder
Ribbon In the Sky - Stevie Wonder
So Amazing - Luther Vandross
Here and Now - Luther Vandross
Make Us One - Twila Paris
The Prayer - Donnie McClurkin & Yolanda Adams
Because You Loved Me - Celine Dion
Blessings - Laura Story
God and God Alone - Steve Green
The Love of God - Mercy Me
How Do You Love Like That - Fred Hammond
That Name - Yolanda Adams
What About the Children - Yolanda Adams
Victory - Yolanda Adams
Still I Rise - Yolanda Adams
Let Us Worship - Yolanda Adams
One God - Maurette Brown Clark
Alabaster Box - CeCe Winans
Don't Cry For Me - CeCe Winans
Can't Give Up Now - Mary Mary
All I Need - Brian Courtney Wilson
Changed - Tremaine Hawkins
God Is Able - Smokie Norful
Every Prayer - Israel Houghton & Mary Mary
Praise Is What I Do - William Murphy
You Are Great - Juanita Bynum
Lord You're Holy - Karen Wheaton
On My Cross - FFH
Pour My Love on You - Phillips Craig & Dean
I Believe I Can Fly - R. Kelly
The Greatest Love of All - Whitney Houston
One Moment In Time - Whitney Houston
Saving All My Love For You - Whitney Houston
I'm Every Woman - Whitney Houston
You'll Never Walk Alone - traditional
Natural Woman - Aretha Franklin
My Funny Valentine - Sarah Vaughn
Is It a Crime - Sade
Love is Stronger Then Pride - Sade
Feeling Good - Nina Simone
I Can't Make You Love Me - Bonnie Raitt
Fever - Peggy Lee
Been So Long - Anita Baker
Blue Skies - Michael Buble
I'll Be Seeing You - Frank Sinatra

Influences and inspiration

My musical influences include: Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston, CeCe Winans, Vikki Winans, Yolanda Adams, and Mahalia Jackson, just to name a few. I am also big fan of Anita Baker, Lalah Hathaway, and Leandris Johnson. Anyone who sings from the heart and makes you feel the message...

Setup requirements

I require an adequate sound sytem (with the means to play CDs or an ipod) or the space to set one up. This can be discussed on a case by case basis.

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