Expect the Clark Sisters to tout more than gospel tunes during their concert tonight at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.

"You'll hear a little bit of preachin', praise and testimony too," said Elbernita Clark, known as "Twinkie," the middle sister of the four-sister group. Folks are usually on their feet during the entire show, she adds.

Not so long ago —- before the genre went mainstream —- gospel was mostly heard at church service and on Sunday morning radio.

"Gospel didn't always get the recognition that it deserves," said Clark, 53. "Singers like Kirk Franklin, Kim Burrell and the Winans helped take gospel to a whole new level."

Also in today's stress-filled world, more people turn to gospel music for a dose of inspiration, she said. And it's notable that theirs is one of three major gospel shows in metro Atlanta this weekend.

The Grammy Award-winning Clark Sisters are pioneers in contemporary gospel and have been performing professionally since 1973.

Although each has recorded successful solo albums, they continue to reunite onstage.

"We're more effective together," Clark said. "We feel a tightness and chemistry that God has given us when we are together as a family."

GOSPEL CONCERTS

Clark Sisters, 7 tonight at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. $45-$100. 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta. 770-916-2800, 404-249-6400, www.cobbenergycentre.com.

Atlanta Gospel Festival. To be held annually, features Lee Williams, Dottie Peoples, the Canton Spirituals, Jackson Southernairs, Keith "Wonderboy" Johnson and Doc Mckenzie. 5 p.m. June 15. $31.50-$43.50. Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center, 395 Piedmont Ave. N.E., Atlanta. 404-658-7159, 404-817-8700, www.atlantaciviccenter.com.

Fourth annual Stone Mountain Park Gospel Celebration. Showcases Sean Simmonds, Damita Haddon, the Anointed Pace Sisters and church choirs. On Memorial lawn. Blankets and lawn chairs are permitted. No pets, grills, glass containers or alcohol. Noon-8:30 p.m. June 14. $25; $22 senior citizens and military; $20 ages 3-11. $8 parking. Stone Mountain Park, U.S. 78 East, Stone Mountain. 770-498-5690,

www.stonemountainpark.com/gospel.