Tamela began her entertainment career singing in the church choir. As time would have it, such musical preparation served to advance the beginning of what would become an incredible music career. She teamed up with the multi-Grammy-winning and double platinum gospel phenomenon ensemble Kirk Franklin and the Family during the early 1990s, and attained fame alongside them, ultimately evolving into one of the most sought-after gospel recording artists of the early 21st century.

Tamela released her solo album titled “Gotta Keep Movin” in 2005 and in 2007 she released “The Live Experience.” Her explosive songs "Father Can You hear Me" and "Take It To Jesus" can be heard in the movie and on the soundtrack album of Diary of a Mad Black Woman (film).

Jammed with 10 songs, and each touched with Mann's signature vocals, "Gotta Keep Moving" is a keeper and a gem. The album stirs together a mix of vocals-based compositions in contemporary format, but strongly rooted in the tried and true Gospel foundational style, with prominent keyboard, bass, guitar and rhythm.

Produced by Grammy-nominated producer, Myron Butler, "The Live Experience" packs incredible soul and passion. It was recorded at the state-of-the-art Calvary Church in Irving, TX with a five camera shoot in ront of a couple of thousand screaming fans. She performed all of the songs from her debut CD plus a handful of new tracks. Myron Butler and Levi provided background vocal accompaniment for the recording. Mann's hilarious husband, David Mann, emceed the evening and sang a song as well.

In addition to the remarkable success Tamela has enjoyed with The Family, she has collaborated and performed with numerous artists including Yolanda Adams, Mary J. Blige, Al Green, Celine Dion, Bono, and Fred Hammond. Tamela's vocal contribution can be heard on various albums including Jackie McCullough Live, LL Cool J, and Kirk Franklin's Christmas. As if that were not enough, Tamela's signature voice can also be heard on respective Coca Cola and Ashley Stewart commercials.

With countless television appearances to her credit such as The Jay Leno Show, BET Soundstage, 1999 Grammy Awards, Dove Awards, and the United States of America World Olympics, Tamela also appeared in the 2001 comedy movie Kingdom Come starring Whoopi Goldberg and Jada Pinkett Smith in which Tamela rendered an unforgettable solo during the film.

In 1996, Tamela joined the gospel musical cast of David E. Talbert as he directed the stage play comedy He Say... She Say... But What Does God Say?

In 1999, Tamela began her acting career when she was discovered by the one and only Tyler Perry. It didn't take long for her to become known and loved by millions as Cora in Tyler Perry's various plays such as "Meet the Browns", "Madea's Class Reunion" and "Madea's Family Reunion" is also a fantastic singer.

In 2001, Tamela also played in Perry's musical drama/comedy Diary of a Mad Black Woman which grossed over $22 million in March 2005. She played the character of Myrtle-a bit of a feisty, preachy woman who was never short on words.