GSU Idol winner exudes passion for music

Congratulations are in order for Allen Patricia Britten, winner of the 2013 GSU Idol competition. A native Chicagoan and the sixth of ten children, Allen discovered a passion for singing very early in life, eventually landing a solo recording with Calvin Bridges and the Faith Tabernacle Choir at age 19. In the years since then, Britten has sung and toured with BET host Bobby Jones and his choir, "Nashville."Ever present in her day-to-day life, singing is more than just a hobby for Allen.

     "Music consumes me. I could sing all day long if my voice would permit me. That's how much I love to sing. My children have said, in times past, that I'm my own personal radio because I at times would sing that much," says Britten of her passion for music. Allen's personal favorite singers include gospel legends Daryl Coley, Yolanda Adams, the Hawkins Family as well as jazz & blues singer Donny Hathaway.

     In addition to winning GSU Idol, Allen is actively pursuing her Masters degree in English and Secondary Education at Governors State. She's also putting the finishing touches on the soundtrack for her stage play, MaMa's Place, which she hopes to present next spring. The play depicts the struggles of motherhood and stands as an inspiration tale for young, single mothers in today's society. Britten is also a published author, having written a three part paperback series, which details the struggle of the mother character from MaMa's Place.