Jackson State University alum Dathan Thigpen captured the top prize on Season 8 of BET’s All-Star “Sunday Best” during the reality Gospel singing competition that aired Aug. 30.
Thigpen captured the crown after the show’s judges had selected him as one of three finalists.
Host Kirk Franklin said millions of votes were cast, with Thigpen named the ultimate winner. His selection was followed by thunderous applause and a rain of confetti.
A native of Jackson, Thigpen is a singer, songwriter, musician and actor. Formerly, he performed with the Mississippi Children’s Choir and the Mississippi Mass Choir.
He extended a heartfelt “thank you” to his JSU alma mater for its support via social media in helping him become victorious.
During Sunday’s live show, Thigpen performed a duet with Grammy-nominated and Stellar Award-winning artist Tye Tribbett. The two presented a high-energy medley of Tribbett’s hits “You Are Everything” and “You Are Good.” The awe-inspiring act featured a glow-in-the-dark light suit hip-hop dance routine that left the judges, the studio audience and fans mesmerized.
Among Thigpen’s past credits include performing and teaching praise and worship in Bulgaria, Poland, Spain and South America.
His notable musical collaborations also include working with professional performers Lalah Hathaway, Fred Hammond and Angie Stone.
In addition, Thigpen has appeared in “Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Neighbors From Hell” and “Scary Movie 5.”
As the “Sunday Best” winner, Thigpen will receive a national recording contract with Franklin’s Fo Yo Soul/RCA record label and a cash prize.