When Doris moved to LA, she was a singer and pianist for the Sallie Martin Singers.  She published her first song in 1947, called "A Double Portion of God's Love".  In 1957 she directed the Sky Pilot Radio Choir, which was an integrated choir. (1)  In 1958 she wrote "Lord Don't Move the Mountain" with Mahalia Jackson.  It's an interesting song because she doesn't ask God to move the hardships, but rather change the hearts of people.

"Now when my folks would slay me, these things they will do, but Lord, don't touch 'em, but within their heart make 'em give their life to you." (2)

Because of her light skin she was able to bridge the gap between white and black. (1) Before that time, white and black gospel musicians performed in separate spheres, but Doris Akers was able to bridge the gap between the two as she was the first black musician to sign up with a white music company. (3)  Some of her music was made popular by others, such as Elvis Presley and "Lord Guide Me". (1)

One of her best known songs was written in 1962, "Sweet, Sweet Spirit".  Doris moved to Columbus, Ohio, then to Cedar Rapids, Iowa where she continued to give concerts and lead worship in various churches.  She moved to Minnesota, where she died in Edina, MN on July 26, 1995.