Archives
Jekalyn Carr
Jekalyn Carr
Wants You To
Know Greater Is Coming
The Olive goes through 3 stages for its oil to run;
1). The shaking!
2). The beating!
3). The pressing!
After this process, the oil flows. The oil that’s being
Pressed out of you now, will bring your Greater.
“Greater is Coming”
Jekalyn Carr
Jekalyn Carr is not your typical teenage girl. At the tender age of 16, she is a highly anointed Evangelist, minister and national recording artist that is taking the gospel music industry by storm. Her current CD Greater is Coming made its debut at number three on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums.
People that have heard Jekalyn can testify that she sings every song with a heartfelt conviction that resonates with the listener. This is evident with her hit song, “Greater Is Coming”. Not only is this song getting strong airplay but it is changing people’s lives around the world.
In this interview Jekalyn talks about her ministry, protecting her anointing, and so much more…..Well Here’s……..Jekalyn!
_____________________________________________________________________________
Ed: You probably get this a lot, but at your age, you’re way beyond anyone that I know both spiritually and mentally. First of all, how did you know your calling in life and step into it? And second, how was this process accelerated---you’re at a level of a seasoned vet that’s been in the word of God for over, I would say, 30 years?
Jekalyn: Well, I always knew that the hand of the Lord was upon my life. At the age of five, I started singing and my parents recognized the gift that God placed in me. They started instilling the word of God in me. As time progressed, the Lord began to open a lot of doors for me. At that time, I thought my ministry stopped with singing. At the age of thirteen God began to speak to me and He said, “There is more that I require of you!” I didn’t know what He was saying at that time, but I did what I normally did, sing and he spoke to me again said, “There is more that I require of you!” So, ever since the age of thirteen, I’ve been traveling the world, preaching and singing the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Ed: That’s a great testimony! God has blessed you with an awesome gift! I was recently watching some youtube videos of you ministering and noticed you speaking in tongues. I’m just curious, when were you baptized in the Holy Spirit?
Jekalyn: I was around the age of seven. I was baptized at our home church in Arkansas.
Ed: Not only are you young and full of wisdom, but you currently have a CD out that is creating a big buzz in the gospel industry called, Greater is Coming. Could you talk to us about the concept behind the project?
Jekalyn: Yes sir. Greater is Coming was released this year (in May 2013). The first day that the CD was released it charted number 3 in the best gospel album category and is currently doing well. This CD speaks about the message of hope, restoration, and deliverance. This CD targets every area and aspect of a person’s life. It is not just limited to one generation, genre, people or culture. This album is universal. I have songs speaking to all generations young and old. There’s a song on the CD called, “Keeping Ourselves” which is encouraging not just too young people, but everyone. There are single parents out there….everybody fighting and struggling to stay saved and keep themselves pure. So this song is just a push to help encourage you---to tell you that you can do it! You can stay positive! You can stay pure! There a lot of other songs including, “Greater is Coming” that is releasing hope and encouraging you. In spite of everything that God allows us to go through, we must remember that He is going to take care of us. So I’m excited about this album and I’m getting a lot of testimonies on how lives are being changed. If you do not have the album, GET IT! I promise you that it will change your life!
Ed: You mentioned that you have been getting a lot of testimonies on how people’s lives have been changed. Can you share some with us?
Jekalyn: Recently, I received a testimony not too long ago about a woman whose son was in jail and it was about something that he did not do. The day that she came in contact with the album and the song, “Greater is Coming” her son was released. She trusted in God, believed and declared that “Greater is Coming”. There are a lot of different and amazing testimonies and it inspires me to know that people are [blessed] by what God has placed in me.
Ed: Is there a certain technique you use when it comes to songwriting?
Jekalyn: Well, I have to say that from this entire album, every song came from the presence of God and you cannot go wrong when you’re in the presence of God. I believe that’s why this album is touching a lot of lives. Because it is not a limited album, it does not target one group or one thing, it targets many areas. Whether I’m at home lying in His presence or whether I’m on stage, I hear from God and He will give me a song or word that ministers to me. That is how my songs come to life; it comes from being in the presence of God.
Ed: Who did you grow up listening to and who do you admire now?
Jekalyn: My favorite singers are; Pastor Jason Nelson, Pastor Shirley Caesar, and Evangelist Dorinda Clark-Cole. They are my absolute favorites because we have a lot in common. They are extremely anointed and powerful. They are not just singers and preachers but they are ministers of the Gospel. You can feel their genuine worship in their ministries when they sing and preach. The bible talks about destroying yokes with an anointing and their ministries destroy yokes and I love that. Their ministries are truly an inspiration to me.
Ed: You have such an awesome gift from the Lord! How do you protect your anointing and gifts that God has placed on your life?
Ed: You mentioned that you have been getting a lot of testimonies on how people’s lives have been changed. Can you share some with us?
Jekalyn: Recently, I received a testimony not too long ago about a woman whose son was in jail and it was about something that he did not do. The day that she came in contact with the album and the song, “Greater is Coming” her son was released. She trusted in God, believed and declared that “Greater is Coming”. There are a lot of different and amazing testimonies and it inspires me to know that people are [blessed] by what God has placed in me.
Ed: Is there a certain technique you use when it comes to songwriting?
Jekalyn: Well, I have to say that from this entire album, every song came from the presence of God and you cannot go wrong when you’re in the presence of God. I believe that’s why this album is touching a lot of lives. Because it is not a limited album, it does not target one group or one thing, it targets many areas. Whether I’m at home lying in His presence or whether I’m on stage, I hear from God and He will give me a song or word that ministers to me. That is how my songs come to life; it comes from being in the presence of God.
Ed: Who did you grow up listening to and who do you admire now?
Jekalyn: My favorite singers are; Pastor Jason Nelson, Pastor Shirley Caesar, and Evangelist Dorinda Clark-Cole. They are my absolute favorites because we have a lot in common. They are extremely anointed and powerful. They are not just singers and preachers but they are ministers of the Gospel. You can feel their genuine worship in their ministries when they sing and preach. The bible talks about destroying yokes with an anointing and their ministries destroy yokes and I love that. Their ministries are truly an inspiration to me.
Ed: You have such an awesome gift from the Lord! How do you protect your anointing and gifts that God has placed on your life?
Jekalyn: I tell people all the time that the devil does not have just one way that he comes to try to destroy us. He comes through people, television, internet, billboards…you name it and he will try to come through it! But I operate and access the power that God has given me over the enemy. I tell the enemy that it does not matter what you present to me or what negative things people say, I am activating this power that God’s given me and I’m declaring; I will not be defeated! I will not be destroyed! You must also be mindful of the environments you place yourself in and the people you surround yourself with because they can contaminate you. I love ministering through singing and preaching. I want to make sure that I am protecting my anointing and ministry in every way possible.
Ed: Wow! Now do you go to the movies? (Laughing)
Jekalyn: (Laughing) Yes I do. I will choose the movies over anything else. I love going to the movies! I like shopping, getting my hair done, nails done, hanging out with my family and stuff like that.
Ed: After getting the chance to meet Benny Hinn how did that experience change your life?
Jekalyn: That was an awesome experience! Many people don’t know that I attended an [Evangelist] Benny Hinn crusade a little while ago. During that time, we did not know each other but I knew that he was an awesome and powerful man of God. [When] Benny came down off the stage he grabbed me and said, “There is an anointing upon your life!” Then he pulled me on the stage and he began to prophesy to me. He told me that I was God’s chosen vessels to help lead nations. Everything that he has prophesied to me, it is coming to pass. That experience was awesome! I am excited and grateful that God revealed my future to [through] Mr. Hinn. It is amazing how God’s plan can come through people that you least expect.
Ed: Do you feel that there is too much of the world that is creeping into the gospel music industry and if so what can we do to change it?
Jekalyn: Well, (laughing) there are some things that are changing. A lot of people and gospel artists feel that they can proclaim the name of Jesus and sing about Jesus, but look like the world. We must remember, we live in the world but we are not of the world and as God’s chosen, we must stand out. What can we do to change it? We must bring it back to the basics. We can bring it back to purification, sanctification, and the Holy Ghost. The messages and lessons that you’re parents and grandparents taught you still apply today. Some artists do not understand why they are losing followers and why people are saying negative things about them. We cannot proclaim the name of Jesus and look like the devil. We have to bring it back to the basics and put Jesus back at the center of what we do. Put the focus back on the reason why we are placed on earth and remember who gave us our gifts. Our gifts are to save souls, destroy yokes and to glorify God not the devil.
Ed: What would you say to a young teenage girl that says; serving God is boring, there are too many rules, and that a lot of people in the church don’t even live the lives that they talk about?
Jekalyn: Oh, Yeah! I don’t just want to say teenage girls but I would like to say this to the young men and young ladies; I would like to encourage you and I want you to know that you can be happy and saved. A lot of people think that you have to go out drinking, partying and smoking to say that you’re having fun. That’s not true! God wants us to have fun. There are a lot of positive things that you can do and still have fun. You can go to the movies, skating and do so much more and still have fun. God doesn’t want us to be saved and boring. He wants us to enjoy life. That’s exactly what I try to portray through my life. I don’t have to say a word or sing a word, but through my life of showing young people…showing the world that; you can be young, you can be saved and happy all at the same time.
Ed: With everything that young people face today from drugs, alcohol, suicide, premarital sex, to even embracing alternative lifestyles, what message would you give them so they can live holy lives before God?
Jekalyn: I tell people all the time that the devil does not have just one way that he comes to try to destroy us. He comes through people, television, internet, billboards…you name it and he will try to come through it! But I operate and access the power that God has given me over the enemy. I tell the enemy that it does not matter what you present to me or what negative things people say, I am activating this power that God’s given me and I’m declaring; I will not be defeated! I will not be destroyed! You must also be mindful of the environments you place yourself in and the people you surround yourself with because they can contaminate you. I love ministering through singing and preaching. I want to make sure that I am protecting my anointing and ministry in every way possible.
Ed: Wow! Now do you go to the movies? (Laughing)
Jekalyn: (Laughing) Yes I do. I will choose the movies over anything else. I love going to the movies! I like shopping, getting my hair done, nails done, hanging out with my family and stuff like that.
Ed: After getting the chance to meet Benny Hinn how did that experience change your life?
Jekalyn: That was an awesome experience! Many people don’t know that I attended an [Evangelist] Benny Hinn crusade a little while ago. During that time, we did not know each other but I knew that he was an awesome and powerful man of God. [When] Benny came down off the stage he grabbed me and said, “There is an anointing upon your life!” Then he pulled me on the stage and he began to prophesy to me. He told me that I was God’s chosen vessels to help lead nations. Everything that he has prophesied to me, it is coming to pass. That experience was awesome! I am excited and grateful that God revealed my future to [through] Mr. Hinn. It is amazing how God’s plan can come through people that you least expect.
Ed: Do you feel that there is too much of the world that is creeping into the gospel music industry and if so what can we do to change it?
Jekalyn: Well, (laughing) there are some things that are changing. A lot of people and gospel artists feel that they can proclaim the name of Jesus and sing about Jesus, but look like the world. We must remember, we live in the world but we are not of the world and as God’s chosen, we must stand out. What can we do to change it? We must bring it back to the basics. We can bring it back to purification, sanctification, and the Holy Ghost. The messages and lessons that you’re parents and grandparents taught you still apply today. Some artists do not understand why they are losing followers and why people are saying negative things about them. We cannot proclaim the name of Jesus and look like the devil. We have to bring it back to the basics and put Jesus back at the center of what we do. Put the focus back on the reason why we are placed on earth and remember who gave us our gifts. Our gifts are to save souls, destroy yokes and to glorify God not the devil.
Ed: What would you say to a young teenage girl that says; serving God is boring, there are too many rules, and that a lot of people in the church don’t even live the lives that they talk about?
Jekalyn: Oh, Yeah! I don’t just want to say teenage girls but I would like to say this to the young men and young ladies; I would like to encourage you and I want you to know that you can be happy and saved. A lot of people think that you have to go out drinking, partying and smoking to say that you’re having fun. That’s not true! God wants us to have fun. There are a lot of positive things that you can do and still have fun. You can go to the movies, skating and do so much more and still have fun. God doesn’t want us to be saved and boring. He wants us to enjoy life. That’s exactly what I try to portray through my life. I don’t have to say a word or sing a word, but through my life of showing young people…showing the world that; you can be young, you can be saved and happy all at the same time.
Ed: With everything that young people face today from drugs, alcohol, suicide, premarital sex, to even embracing alternative lifestyles, what message would you give them so they can live holy lives before God?
Jekalyn: Let me say this; an alcoholic doesn’t become an alcoholic overnight. A murder doesn’t become a murder overnight. There’s something that may have transpired either in your youth or transpired in your life that made you be what you are today. But I want to let you know that God is a healer and a restorer. God doesn’t want to see His people hurt. I believe today that if you lift your hands and ask God for His divine healing power---He will rest upon you! I believe that God can heal you right there where you are. I want you to know that you are more than drugs; you are more than sex before marriage. You are more than alcohol and all this stuff that society says that you are. You are who God called you to be! You are the chosen one. You are a chosen vessel that God has placed on this earth to help inspire and push people back to the place God has created them to be. I speak over your life right now, that you will be successful. You will be everything that God created you to be! I speak right now that the plans of the enemy are already denied over your life! I declare that the devil will not attack you with your past! He will not attack you with the things that you use to do. I know you may have sinned and I know that you may have messed up. However, I want to let you know that we serve a faithful God, a forgiving God and today God wants to change your life completely. If you open up and allow Him to do it!
Ed: In this day and age that we’re living in where we see so much going on in the world and we’re witnessing bible prophecy come to pass right before our very eyes. How important is it for us (both young and old) to seek God like never before?
Jekalyn: It’s very important! We should always seek God. My parents always taught me that you cannot only go by what a preacher says. Seek God for yourself and have a personal relationship with Him in order to understand what he is releasing to you. Everything that God releases to you will help you and others. So seek God! It’s very important to seek God especially on what you should be doing in this season and in this hour!
Ed: After being all around the world, has there ever been such a move of God where you ministered that it just blew your mind?
Jekalyn: Wow! I have to say, every encounter that I have with the people of God, everywhere I go---it’s just awesome! God never fails to blow my mind. The altars are full and people are crying out. So, I just cannot pinpoint one event or two because everywhere I go, it is awesome and amazing! It inspires me to see that the people are inspired by me. It keeps me going and it pushes me even further. Just to know that their lives are being changed because of what God has placed in me.
Ed: What is your favorite Bible verse?
Jekalyn: My favorite Bible verse is in the book of Isaiah 43:19, where God says, “Behold I shall do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.” I have held onto that verse since I was thirteen. I believe since I’ve held onto that scripture, stood on it and believed it, God is constantly doing new things in my life and ministry. He’s been blowing my mind. So, I want to encourage everyone with a favorite scripture, to stand on it and not just read it! Do not just declare it but believe it! Because when you believe it, that’s when God begins to do His most unexplainable works!
Ed: Do you play any musical instruments?
Jekalyn: I can play the piano a little bit. I play it here and there but I can play by ear. I started a few classes, but I’m coming along good. (Laughing)
Ed: You know that God is going to bless you in that area. All of a sudden it’s just going to come and you’ll be playing like a pro. (Laughing)
Ed: If you had to sum up what the ministry of Jekalyn Carr is all about what would you want people to know?
Ed: In this day and age that we’re living in where we see so much going on in the world and we’re witnessing bible prophecy come to pass right before our very eyes. How important is it for us (both young and old) to seek God like never before?
Jekalyn: It’s very important! We should always seek God. My parents always taught me that you cannot only go by what a preacher says. Seek God for yourself and have a personal relationship with Him in order to understand what he is releasing to you. Everything that God releases to you will help you and others. So seek God! It’s very important to seek God especially on what you should be doing in this season and in this hour!
Ed: After being all around the world, has there ever been such a move of God where you ministered that it just blew your mind?
Jekalyn: Wow! I have to say, every encounter that I have with the people of God, everywhere I go---it’s just awesome! God never fails to blow my mind. The altars are full and people are crying out. So, I just cannot pinpoint one event or two because everywhere I go, it is awesome and amazing! It inspires me to see that the people are inspired by me. It keeps me going and it pushes me even further. Just to know that their lives are being changed because of what God has placed in me.
Ed: What is your favorite Bible verse?
Jekalyn: My favorite Bible verse is in the book of Isaiah 43:19, where God says, “Behold I shall do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.” I have held onto that verse since I was thirteen. I believe since I’ve held onto that scripture, stood on it and believed it, God is constantly doing new things in my life and ministry. He’s been blowing my mind. So, I want to encourage everyone with a favorite scripture, to stand on it and not just read it! Do not just declare it but believe it! Because when you believe it, that’s when God begins to do His most unexplainable works!
Ed: Do you play any musical instruments?
Jekalyn: I can play the piano a little bit. I play it here and there but I can play by ear. I started a few classes, but I’m coming along good. (Laughing)
Ed: You know that God is going to bless you in that area. All of a sudden it’s just going to come and you’ll be playing like a pro. (Laughing)
Ed: If you had to sum up what the ministry of Jekalyn Carr is all about what would you want people to know?
Jekalyn: My ministry is about showing everybody that it doesn’t matter how old you are, it doesn’t matter where you came from or what your background is, if God’s hand is upon your life and you open up your heart, He will use you to do great works.
I just love portraying to the people of God that you don’t have to be a certain age, or color to do what God called you to do. If God’s hand is upon your life, then God will cause you to do some awesome works if you allow Him. Just persevere and go after everything that God has called you to be. I understand that there are a lot of things going on now in the world, but just stand on what God has shown you and what God has placed in you. If you don’t know who or what God called you to be then just lift your hands right now and ask God. Who have you called me to be? Why have you placed me on this earth? What is my purpose? Who am I in you? And I believe when you ask God those questions, He will reveal to you who He wants you to be. Then once He reveals it, walk into it, don’t be ashamed or have any fear. Don’t worry what people may say about you. Just walk into what God called you to be.
Those are the things that I like to convey to the body of Christ through my ministry.
Ed: What would you say to a person who may come to you and say, ‘I want to be just like you, a person who is bold, anointed, and is on fire for the Lord?’
Jekalyn: I would encourage them not to want what I have and not to be like me. But I would encourage them to be what God has called them to be. Once a person operates in what God called them to be and operate in it boldly, I believe that God can take you far and blow your mind! So just walk into who God called you to be, keep that fire for God and continue to seek after Him. Do not focus on being rich and famous but have God in the center of everything that you do.
Ed: I would like to thank you for your time. You gave an awesome interview and my God richly bless you in all your endeavors.
Jekalyn: Thanks…and thank you for having me.
For more information about Jekalyn Carr you can follow her at; www.myjekalyncarr.net, http://www.facebook.com/jekalyncarr, and www.twitter.com/jekalyncarr.
If you have questions or comments e-mail me at edzplace@live.com.
Edited By Leah Short
Special Thanks:
Joanne Potts & T-Kea Blackman
I just love portraying to the people of God that you don’t have to be a certain age, or color to do what God called you to do. If God’s hand is upon your life, then God will cause you to do some awesome works if you allow Him. Just persevere and go after everything that God has called you to be. I understand that there are a lot of things going on now in the world, but just stand on what God has shown you and what God has placed in you. If you don’t know who or what God called you to be then just lift your hands right now and ask God. Who have you called me to be? Why have you placed me on this earth? What is my purpose? Who am I in you? And I believe when you ask God those questions, He will reveal to you who He wants you to be. Then once He reveals it, walk into it, don’t be ashamed or have any fear. Don’t worry what people may say about you. Just walk into what God called you to be.
Those are the things that I like to convey to the body of Christ through my ministry.
Ed: What would you say to a person who may come to you and say, ‘I want to be just like you, a person who is bold, anointed, and is on fire for the Lord?’
Jekalyn: I would encourage them not to want what I have and not to be like me. But I would encourage them to be what God has called them to be. Once a person operates in what God called them to be and operate in it boldly, I believe that God can take you far and blow your mind! So just walk into who God called you to be, keep that fire for God and continue to seek after Him. Do not focus on being rich and famous but have God in the center of everything that you do.
Ed: I would like to thank you for your time. You gave an awesome interview and my God richly bless you in all your endeavors.
Jekalyn: Thanks…and thank you for having me.
For more information about Jekalyn Carr you can follow her at; www.myjekalyncarr.net, http://www.facebook.com/jekalyncarr, and www.twitter.com/jekalyncarr.
If you have questions or comments e-mail me at edzplace@live.com.
Edited By Leah Short
Special Thanks:
Joanne Potts & T-Kea Blackman
CeCe Winans
Cece Winans Into The Throne Room
CeCe Winans has made a tremendous impact on the gospel music industry. As a part of the hit duo, BeBe & CeCe Winans, they came up with hit after hit: Heaven, Lost Without You, Addictive Love, I’ll Take You There, and many others. After stepping out on faith and leaving the comforting surroundings of a group, CeCe’s present accomplishments as a solo artist broaden those of her previous efforts: one platinum CD--Alone In His Presence and three gold--Everlasting Love, Alabaster Box, and the self titled--CeCe Winans.
The Lord also blessed her with her own record label: Pure Spring Gospel in which her most previous work (the self titled CD CeCe Winans) was released and its roster is growing now with praise and worship leader Vicki Yohe and The Born Again Church Choir. Now she’s embarking on her latest release entitled, “Throne Room”. It promises not only to be the best CD of her career but one of the greatest worship CD’s ever! CeCe talked to me about her latest project, “Throne Room” and how important true worship is.
*Caution: If you are a true worshipper do not drive while listening!
Ed: How was “Throne Room” conceived or birthed in your spirit?
CeCe: The first time I really thought about it was last year during the Stellar Awards. After the Stellar Awards we went to an after event they had and Fred Hammond was singing, “I’m Calling You,” I believe it was, and it was so amazing to me. I told him then, “you should do a whole CD of that,” because it was just so beautiful. I didn’t say anything else. Then later on it was almost like the Lord dropped it in my spirit: “I want you to do one,” (laughing) and I was like, okay, okay. Now this is kind of different.
I just kept praying on it and praying on it because I was supposed to go in and do another, more mainstream, type of record. I told my manager: “You know what? I got to do this CD!” because by then the Lord had confirmed it so many times in so many different ways . . . it was on my spirit so heavy, that it was almost like I was pregnant, and I had to deliver this baby. It became urgent and that’s when it dropped into my spirit.
When I started on it at the end of last year I called Cedric Caldwell. In the meeting with him I explained the vibe of the whole CD, how it had to flow, and how it had to be uninterrupted worship whereas, people could pray along with the CD or be encouraged to enter into the throne room to worship God in spirit and in truth. Since then, I have been studying on worship, realizing that it’s our hiding place.
Ed: Did God give you the melodies along with the lyrics?
CeCe: Most of them came from prayer time. He would give me a melody and the lyrics together and then I would take that over to Cedric and he would finish it up, as far as embellishing the tacks. The songs, “Just Like You Jesus” and “Throne Room”, I wrote with André Crouch. That was a great blessing and an incredible experience. We went to L.A. and Boy! Just to sit and see what God does through him was unbelievable! When he started playing “Throne Room” I was like: “Yes! Yes!” and he’d only done the first part: ‘welcome to the throne room’! Then he’d go home and finish . . . that’s how that one got finished. But most of them came with the melody, ‘I will praise thee O God most high by thy blood’ . . . by prayer time for the most part.
Ed: I can tell that a lot of intimate time was spent in worshipping God. These songs make you want to cry (laughing).
CeCe: (Laughing) well, I tell people, “Now if you don’t know how to worship you can listen to it while you are driving because it will start taking you there. But, if you are already a worshipper, don’t listen to it unless you are at home”.
You know it doesn’t take much for us to go right in. That’s what I pray people will receive from it and I wanted to make it real simple because it’s not about me at all. Even in the singing and the music I had to make sure everything was very simple. No distractions from anybody, just really focusing in on Him.
Ed: Did you write most of the songs on the CD?
Cece Winans Into The Throne Room
CeCe Winans has made a tremendous impact on the gospel music industry. As a part of the hit duo, BeBe & CeCe Winans, they came up with hit after hit: Heaven, Lost Without You, Addictive Love, I’ll Take You There, and many others. After stepping out on faith and leaving the comforting surroundings of a group, CeCe’s present accomplishments as a solo artist broaden those of her previous efforts: one platinum CD--Alone In His Presence and three gold--Everlasting Love, Alabaster Box, and the self titled--CeCe Winans.
The Lord also blessed her with her own record label: Pure Spring Gospel in which her most previous work (the self titled CD CeCe Winans) was released and its roster is growing now with praise and worship leader Vicki Yohe and The Born Again Church Choir. Now she’s embarking on her latest release entitled, “Throne Room”. It promises not only to be the best CD of her career but one of the greatest worship CD’s ever! CeCe talked to me about her latest project, “Throne Room” and how important true worship is.
*Caution: If you are a true worshipper do not drive while listening!
Ed: How was “Throne Room” conceived or birthed in your spirit?
CeCe: The first time I really thought about it was last year during the Stellar Awards. After the Stellar Awards we went to an after event they had and Fred Hammond was singing, “I’m Calling You,” I believe it was, and it was so amazing to me. I told him then, “you should do a whole CD of that,” because it was just so beautiful. I didn’t say anything else. Then later on it was almost like the Lord dropped it in my spirit: “I want you to do one,” (laughing) and I was like, okay, okay. Now this is kind of different.
I just kept praying on it and praying on it because I was supposed to go in and do another, more mainstream, type of record. I told my manager: “You know what? I got to do this CD!” because by then the Lord had confirmed it so many times in so many different ways . . . it was on my spirit so heavy, that it was almost like I was pregnant, and I had to deliver this baby. It became urgent and that’s when it dropped into my spirit.
When I started on it at the end of last year I called Cedric Caldwell. In the meeting with him I explained the vibe of the whole CD, how it had to flow, and how it had to be uninterrupted worship whereas, people could pray along with the CD or be encouraged to enter into the throne room to worship God in spirit and in truth. Since then, I have been studying on worship, realizing that it’s our hiding place.
Ed: Did God give you the melodies along with the lyrics?
CeCe: Most of them came from prayer time. He would give me a melody and the lyrics together and then I would take that over to Cedric and he would finish it up, as far as embellishing the tacks. The songs, “Just Like You Jesus” and “Throne Room”, I wrote with André Crouch. That was a great blessing and an incredible experience. We went to L.A. and Boy! Just to sit and see what God does through him was unbelievable! When he started playing “Throne Room” I was like: “Yes! Yes!” and he’d only done the first part: ‘welcome to the throne room’! Then he’d go home and finish . . . that’s how that one got finished. But most of them came with the melody, ‘I will praise thee O God most high by thy blood’ . . . by prayer time for the most part.
Ed: I can tell that a lot of intimate time was spent in worshipping God. These songs make you want to cry (laughing).
CeCe: (Laughing) well, I tell people, “Now if you don’t know how to worship you can listen to it while you are driving because it will start taking you there. But, if you are already a worshipper, don’t listen to it unless you are at home”.
You know it doesn’t take much for us to go right in. That’s what I pray people will receive from it and I wanted to make it real simple because it’s not about me at all. Even in the singing and the music I had to make sure everything was very simple. No distractions from anybody, just really focusing in on Him.
Ed: Did you write most of the songs on the CD?
CeCe: I wrote probably half. The first time I heard the song, “Jesus Your Beautiful” was on a Sara Groves CD (All Right Here). She is a Christian artist, and I have her CD. My kids love her! And as I was listening to her CD my husband said, “You got to hear the last song on here.” I heard the whole CD, but when I got to the last song, ‘Jesus Your Beautiful’, you talk about crying, I was in my bedroom and I just wept and wept. It was so beautiful, and it took me into His presence. I was almost finished with my CD and I told Alvin (CeCe’s husband), “I got to add this song to my CD!” --because it took me where I had to take people. So I decided to record that song . . . that’s where that one came from.
Randy Phillips, who wrote ‘Comforter’ on the ‘Alabaster Box’ CD and he’s a great writer, wrote the song, ‘We Thirst For You’. That’s the first one that goes into the praise and worship half of the CD. Man! Is that a song! But, again, it just took me there and it was saying exactly what I needed it to say. It’s all about Him! If we don’t focus in on Him, and really get more of Him, then we are not going to make it.
Ed: On the CD, songs one through eight are songs of worship and reflection, while songs nine through sixteen are songs of praise and adoration. What is the difference between the songs of worship and reflection versus the songs of praise and adoration?
CeCe: Worship is the first half. When you listen to them they talk about Him only. ‘Crying out Holy’, ‘Jesus You’re Beautiful’, you are not asking for anything you’re praising Him. It’s not about what you need, what you think, or even what he has done. It’s about who He is. You can have worship and praise in the same song, and it’s fine, there’s nothing wrong with that. The most pure and the most powerful is when it’s focused on just Him. When you go in and have prayer time and you don’t ask for anything . . . you just thank him . . . and love on Him . . . and tell Him how much you appreciate Him and who He is: He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, . . . You remind Him of His word and that’s the most powerful time you’ll ever have!
Then the other half is just praise. It’s more of what God has done for you, and what He took you through. Also, doing songs of encouragement is great for the body of Christ, but the most powerful is when it’s all about Him. So, to me, that would be the difference. They all minister to certain needs at certain times but when it’s just about Him, it’s the most powerful.
Ed: Did Cedric and Victor Caldwell write the intro music to the CD?
CeCe: It’s really André Crouch’s song, ‘Hallelujah To the King’.
Ed: That really set the tone for the whole CD.
CeCe: Isn’t it beautiful! But Cedric, I have to give it to him, worked with Nashville Symphony and they created that musical part, but if you listen again it’s really the start of ‘Hallelujah To the King’.
Ed: How does one worship in spirit and in truth?
Randy Phillips, who wrote ‘Comforter’ on the ‘Alabaster Box’ CD and he’s a great writer, wrote the song, ‘We Thirst For You’. That’s the first one that goes into the praise and worship half of the CD. Man! Is that a song! But, again, it just took me there and it was saying exactly what I needed it to say. It’s all about Him! If we don’t focus in on Him, and really get more of Him, then we are not going to make it.
Ed: On the CD, songs one through eight are songs of worship and reflection, while songs nine through sixteen are songs of praise and adoration. What is the difference between the songs of worship and reflection versus the songs of praise and adoration?
CeCe: Worship is the first half. When you listen to them they talk about Him only. ‘Crying out Holy’, ‘Jesus You’re Beautiful’, you are not asking for anything you’re praising Him. It’s not about what you need, what you think, or even what he has done. It’s about who He is. You can have worship and praise in the same song, and it’s fine, there’s nothing wrong with that. The most pure and the most powerful is when it’s focused on just Him. When you go in and have prayer time and you don’t ask for anything . . . you just thank him . . . and love on Him . . . and tell Him how much you appreciate Him and who He is: He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, . . . You remind Him of His word and that’s the most powerful time you’ll ever have!
Then the other half is just praise. It’s more of what God has done for you, and what He took you through. Also, doing songs of encouragement is great for the body of Christ, but the most powerful is when it’s all about Him. So, to me, that would be the difference. They all minister to certain needs at certain times but when it’s just about Him, it’s the most powerful.
Ed: Did Cedric and Victor Caldwell write the intro music to the CD?
CeCe: It’s really André Crouch’s song, ‘Hallelujah To the King’.
Ed: That really set the tone for the whole CD.
CeCe: Isn’t it beautiful! But Cedric, I have to give it to him, worked with Nashville Symphony and they created that musical part, but if you listen again it’s really the start of ‘Hallelujah To the King’.
Ed: How does one worship in spirit and in truth?
CeCe: Spirit means it comes from your heart. The Bible speaks of vain worship. Vain worship is when it’s coming from our lips and our heart is far from Him---He is not accepting it. A lot of times we can go to church services and never experience worship because our minds are everywhere else. We are into the music or into talking to our friends as a social gathering and never really serve God. When we really worship Him we minister to Him and when we touch Him, He automatically touches us.
In the scriptures it tells you, “seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you”. That’s what worship is then: when it says “in truth” it’s based on His word! There’s no way you can worship in spirit and in truth and never read your Bible and never meditate on His word. It’s from your heart and it’s based on His word. It’s not just a performance. You mean it and you live it! A worshipper is one who loves Him . . . an attitude of the heart.
A lot of times we say that it’s worship music because it’s a slow song. The music is just a vehicle for worship to be carried in but the worship comes from the heart, and so, we pray that when people hear this they will take off the mask and really ask God to give them a heart like His, to allow them to worship. Give Him that acceptable worship because that’s the only kind that counts. When you do that you fall in love with Him. It’s a love thing. You really love Him, so you become a worshipper. That means you’re going to love on Him throughout the whole day and start focusing more on Him than anything else. He’s got to be first! So worshipping in spirit and in truth means worshiping from the heart and from His word.
Ed: On your website you said, “The Lord is moving the body of Christ into a new sound, a pure sound, a holy sound, a sound of true worship.” Is this because of the times we are living in?
CeCe: Yes, I believe so. Jesus is so soon to come and the people that don’t know God know something is up. You turn on the news and its like, “Whoa!” and He still wants to accomplish a lot before He comes. We can’t accomplish those heavenly things on earth unless we are in our places as the body . . . the whole body must become true worshippers.
Notice He said you must worship in spirit and in truth. That means there is no option! You can’t go in lukewarm or He will spit you out of His mouth! So you have to be in the right place to accomplish those things that we have to accomplish. You can’t accomplish these things with fear. When you are in worship you don’t deal with fear because you are reminded of who He is. When you see who He is at all times then your problems are nothing. You turn on the news and you don’t have a heart attack. You know that you can rest in His peace. I know if I didn’t have Him I would be crazy, you know what I’m saying? I would be in fear or in the crazy house! There is no way I can make it without Him, but with Him I can have peace in the midst of sorrow! I can have that peace that surpasses all understanding, so that is another weapon. When you have peace it works for you during the times we’re in today. He has lifted the bar up a little bit higher because of the times we are living in. You turn around and you see it’s more evil than it’s ever been. We’ve got to be more powerful than we have ever been in our lives!
Ed: Absolutely! We were a part of the east coast blackout that lasted for about 26 hours.
CeCe: That’s right! You guys were a part of that. See what I’m saying? I’m like, “What’s going to happen next?” But the thing is: whatever happens I am with the one who got the hookup! So I’m fine because I serve the Lord with all of my heart, soul, and mind.
Ed: You have a song on the CD dedicated to Ronald. How did that song come about?
CeCe: That’s one I didn’t write. I heard that song as well. When I heard it I was just blown away. I said, “Oh, my God, This song is so powerful!” and of course I thought about God’s mercy towards me . . . but certain lyrics in that song brought Ronald’s [past situation] back to surface so strong: “Life and death stood face to face darkness tried to steal my heart away, but mercy said no!” That’s the struggle we were in with him. It was the most real struggle I have ever been in before. It is an experience I’ll never forget and I’ll never stop telling it. I told God, “I’ll never stop telling of His goodness,” if He brought Ronald back . . .and so, I can’t stop.
Ed: How is he doing?
CeCe: He’s doing great! I talked to him yesterday.
Ed: I got a tough question for you. What is your favorite song on the CD?
CeCe: That is hard . . . but I would have to pick Jesus Your Beautiful.
Ed: How do you come up with the concepts of your CD covers?
Notice He said you must worship in spirit and in truth. That means there is no option! You can’t go in lukewarm or He will spit you out of His mouth! So you have to be in the right place to accomplish those things that we have to accomplish. You can’t accomplish these things with fear. When you are in worship you don’t deal with fear because you are reminded of who He is. When you see who He is at all times then your problems are nothing. You turn on the news and you don’t have a heart attack. You know that you can rest in His peace. I know if I didn’t have Him I would be crazy, you know what I’m saying? I would be in fear or in the crazy house! There is no way I can make it without Him, but with Him I can have peace in the midst of sorrow! I can have that peace that surpasses all understanding, so that is another weapon. When you have peace it works for you during the times we’re in today. He has lifted the bar up a little bit higher because of the times we are living in. You turn around and you see it’s more evil than it’s ever been. We’ve got to be more powerful than we have ever been in our lives!
Ed: Absolutely! We were a part of the east coast blackout that lasted for about 26 hours.
CeCe: That’s right! You guys were a part of that. See what I’m saying? I’m like, “What’s going to happen next?” But the thing is: whatever happens I am with the one who got the hookup! So I’m fine because I serve the Lord with all of my heart, soul, and mind.
Ed: You have a song on the CD dedicated to Ronald. How did that song come about?
CeCe: That’s one I didn’t write. I heard that song as well. When I heard it I was just blown away. I said, “Oh, my God, This song is so powerful!” and of course I thought about God’s mercy towards me . . . but certain lyrics in that song brought Ronald’s [past situation] back to surface so strong: “Life and death stood face to face darkness tried to steal my heart away, but mercy said no!” That’s the struggle we were in with him. It was the most real struggle I have ever been in before. It is an experience I’ll never forget and I’ll never stop telling it. I told God, “I’ll never stop telling of His goodness,” if He brought Ronald back . . .and so, I can’t stop.
Ed: How is he doing?
CeCe: He’s doing great! I talked to him yesterday.
Ed: I got a tough question for you. What is your favorite song on the CD?
CeCe: That is hard . . . but I would have to pick Jesus Your Beautiful.
Ed: How do you come up with the concepts of your CD covers?
CeCe: I just take a photo shoot and take all the pictures, look at them, and say, “What captivates?” Okay, we’re going to the throne room. What picture looks best for the CD you’re doing, that’s how you come up with it.
Sometimes I’d pray, “Did we get it?” Then I’d choose the one I feel we should go with. From there, I have a wonderful person who puts it together for me.
Ed: How dangerous is it now to be involved in secular music?
CeCe: It is very dangerous to be in anything that God’s not in! Somebody asked me earlier today about love songs and if I will ever do a love song CD? I’m not opposed to love songs if they are love songs. God is love. I am not afraid to do love songs because the world says they do them. The world doesn’t know what love is. There’s no way you can know what love is without God in your life . . . not real love, agape love. If it’s a secular song and it’s really about love, hey! I am fine with that. But most of the stuff, and what it is doing to our kids, makes me so upset! How the enemy is taking something that is so beautiful and turning it into junk. The scene out there to me is disgusting . . . it is a bad time to be in it because Jesus is soon to come and you can tell that anybody who’s allowing the devil to be their lord, the devil is taking them to places that they never thought they’d go! Either you serve God or the devil!
Ed: Could you give us your closing thoughts?
CeCe: I Just want to stress to young people, and it doesn’t have to be my CD, but just get into the place . . .the shadow of His wings . . . the secret place . . . Become a true worshipper . . . The Father is seeking true worship. It’s very important and it’s urgent!
If you have questions or comments e-mail me at www.edzplace@live.com
Edited By Lillian J. Anderson
Sometimes I’d pray, “Did we get it?” Then I’d choose the one I feel we should go with. From there, I have a wonderful person who puts it together for me.
Ed: How dangerous is it now to be involved in secular music?
CeCe: It is very dangerous to be in anything that God’s not in! Somebody asked me earlier today about love songs and if I will ever do a love song CD? I’m not opposed to love songs if they are love songs. God is love. I am not afraid to do love songs because the world says they do them. The world doesn’t know what love is. There’s no way you can know what love is without God in your life . . . not real love, agape love. If it’s a secular song and it’s really about love, hey! I am fine with that. But most of the stuff, and what it is doing to our kids, makes me so upset! How the enemy is taking something that is so beautiful and turning it into junk. The scene out there to me is disgusting . . . it is a bad time to be in it because Jesus is soon to come and you can tell that anybody who’s allowing the devil to be their lord, the devil is taking them to places that they never thought they’d go! Either you serve God or the devil!
Ed: Could you give us your closing thoughts?
CeCe: I Just want to stress to young people, and it doesn’t have to be my CD, but just get into the place . . .the shadow of His wings . . . the secret place . . . Become a true worshipper . . . The Father is seeking true worship. It’s very important and it’s urgent!
If you have questions or comments e-mail me at www.edzplace@live.com
Edited By Lillian J. Anderson
Rufus Troutman
Rufus Troutman The Heart of an Anointed Minstrel The most anticipated release of the 21st century is here…“All Things Are Possible” the new CD by Minister Rufus Troutman. This CD contains 13 of the funkiest songs you’ll hear this year such as: “Shake the Haters Off”, “Just a Test” featuring the return of rapper Cal-G, “Rise Up” and the lead track off the CD, “All Things Are Possible” all of which contain some musical influences of his uncle, the late Roger Troutman. With this album the stakes are raised as the main theme of this CD talks about faith and taking our God-given authority…that we as Christians should not walk in defeat but walk in total victory by speaking what God has said in His Word!!! Shirley Murdock makes a special appearance and is featured on the song, “It’s Over” which talks about after going through a vigorous trial…God has seen you through. After being nominated for a Dove Award with his first solo project, “No Compromise” and being featured on John P. Kee’s Gold CD, “Not Guilty” success has not spoiled him at all as the focus is still preaching and singing the true unadulterated gospel of Jesus Christ. _________________________________________________________________________________ Ed: First of all, I would like to welcome you back to the music scene. Man, there was a big void in the gospel music industry without you! But now you are back with a brand new CD, “All Things Are Possible.” It’s been about 8 or 9 years since your last release, “No Compromise”. Could you tell us what you’ve been doing in-between that time and why it took so long for you to come out with your new project? Rufus: Well, you know it just took that long for me to die to my stinky flesh. As Christians, when you enter any field of ministry, what God is always looking for is your character not your gift. So many times we get [so] caught up in the gifts that we don’t stop to allow God to deal with our character. Ed: You don’t have a picture of yourself on the CD cover but instead have someone in blue jeans walking past a door, showing only their legs, with the name of the album on the door. Why did you decide to go that route? Rufus: ‘Cause I’m ugly for the most part (laughing). No, pretty much what I like to try to get people to do is think and search because ultimately my motivation for what I do is to, hopefully, introduce people to the Christ that saved me. So, sometimes you have to be willing to put yourself second so that Christ can be seen. Now I know that the industry marketers wouldn’t agree with that because they would say, “You need to Market yourself! Get your face out there so the people know who you are,” and I guess that there is some merit to that…when you are trying to sell you! But when you are trying to promote Jesus---you know there is a thing---the bible makes this statement: “Obedience is better than sacrifice,” so I wonder how many have followed that particular scripture? Now, I have failed that scripture several times, but when it concerns music…as much as I can, and I’m not saying that I’m perfect or righteous and all that in and of myself, but certainly, I try to push Jesus first! So, that was kind of like a long exhortation [to answer] that question. Ed: Go head preach it! Rufus: To simply answer the question: I would like to cause people to think about the title of the album before they see who I am. Ed: What are some of the differences between the two albums, “No Compromise” and the new CD, “All Things Are Possible”? Rufus: “No Compromise” basically, was just an expression of me being saved---thanking the Lord and doing a gospel [album] because of it. “All Things Are Possible” is more of an album birthed out of the process of what I’ve been through. Ed: For those who may not know, why do you go by R. Troutman on your albums as opposed to Rufus Troutman? Rufus: I started using R. Troutman because it would immediately make you think of Roger before you would think of me. My thesis behind that was that I was trying to use a hook to capture the people’s attention. Ed: Let’s talk a little bit about some of the songs on this new project. You open up with the title track of the CD, “All Things Are Possible” which talks about your faith walk. One of the examples you used was your move from Dayton, Ohio to Riverside, California. Why did you decide to move out west and leave your family and familiar surroundings? Rufus: Well, I came to California to visit some years back and when I was there I felt the presence of God come upon me, as if this was the place that He wanted me to be for a season. I didn’t really know why, so eventually I took that step of faith---it was a step of faith because it costs too much to live in California. Through that process the song, “All Things Are Possible” was birthed because when I began to take the step of faith---it was scary, I wanted to quit, I wanted to give up---but God proved Himself to be faithful. Ed: Well I commend you on that, because that was a huge step of faith. I don’t know if I could have done that. Rufus: Naw, man . . . It’s not for the faint of heart. Ed: You have a song on your CD called, “I Love My Wife”. Could you talk about how that song came to be and why you felt is was important to be placed on the album? Rufus: My wife was out of town and I was kind of missing her…and when you’re missing somebody or missing something you don’t have you simply begin to appreciate what you have. So, I was in the studio just messing around and at the same time missing her so the two became one---the time in the studio and missing her became the song, “I Love My Wife”. So, a simple answer is I was just missing her and I began to reminisce on how God has blessed me…as the bible says, “Who can find a virtuous woman? Her price is far above rubies.” You know we hear that but what does that really mean? So, that’s the simple story, I mean, we can preach and then I can take up an offering (laughing). Ed: How did you meet your wife Jennifer? Rufus: She worked at a radio station and someone sent her my CD, (“No Compromise”). She heard it and called me in for an interview . . . from there, the rest is history. Ed: You have four worship songs on the new album and some may say, “Worship songs on a talkbox? I don’t know about that!” But, you pulled it off and did a magnificent job in using the talkbox. In listening to them you can tell that you bared your heart and soul into singing them. Could you talk about your approach to them? Rufus: First of all, the voice box is just an expression of the heart. There is nothing really special about it…I mean the sound is unique, but it is just an expression of the heart just as the voice is the expression of the heart. So, I think it is as simple as this: when you have a relationship with Jesus and you decide to worship…because I believe that it is a choice to worship . . . when you decide to worship you use the tools He has given you to worship Him. That’s really how it came about. I was sitting in the studio just worshipping and then just expressing it through the voice box as opposed to my regular voice. ‘Cause if I used my regular voice not too many people would buy it (laughing). Ed: There is a song on the new project that features Shirley Murdock called, “It’s Over” and it is kind of reminiscent of the style of songs Roger had with Shirley. Could you talk about what you wanted to capture in this song. Rufus: My aim and purpose for this song was to reach people who had just been in a trial---being in the process of life---they’ve come to a place where they’re tired of going through it, tired of reminiscing over it and I felt that Shirley had such a voice of authority that she could speak and make it happen . . . especially to the women that are going through. Shirley has been around for about 25 years or so . . . when people hear her, she just comes off as being more believable. Ed: Lyrically you’ve grown leaps and bounds and that’s not to say that your last CD was bad, because it wasn’t. It was one of the hottest CD’s of 2000. But how do you account for this growth spiritually? Rufus: Oh, Man! There is only one-way and I would call it: ‘The Wilderness Experience!’ Ed: Who do you like as preachers and why? Rufus: Jimmy Swaggart and what I can admire about him is that he is still preaching the cross of Jesus Christ, the blood of Jesus Christ and redemption through Jesus Christ. While that’s the basic gospel I’m sad to say that you really don’t hear that a lot coming across most of the major Christian networks or outlets. What you mostly hear is: harvests, seasons, and blessings. While I believe there’s a place for that, it’s not the centralized heart of the gospel. The gospel is the cross of Christ and the blood of Jesus, redemption, the atonement, what Christ has done for us, healing through the atonement, and baptism of the Holy Spirit. You don’t hear that type [of preaching] anymore. Ed: In the process of putting an album together what part of the recording process do you like the best, from writing, arranging and engineering? Rufus: I would probably say the music, which I guess you would call arranging, producing, and production of the music. That’s always the easier part for me. Ed: Who were some of your musical influences growing up? Rufus: Certainly, my uncle (Roger) was an influence. Before I was saved I would say: Babyface, George Benson, and George Duke. I’m kind of old school…George Clinton, a lot of George’s man. As far as Christian artists I would say: Richard Smallwood, Daryl Coley, Commissioned, I even like what Tye Tribbett is doing musically. Ed: What are some of your hobbies? Rufus: Man! My hobbies are: watching movies, being in the studio, and taking my daughter to arts and crafts. Ed: Let’s hear a little bit about your background. At what age did you discover that you had a love for music? Rufus: You know I still haven’t figured that out yet ‘cause if I can get out the studio…I will (laughing). But I would probably say at seven or eight years old. Ed: Did Roger teach you how to play the instruments you now play and if so, what was the first instrument you played? Rufus: The very first instrument I learned to play was the saxophone, which I still play…A lot of people don’t know that. Then, I would say the keyboards, harmonica, and guitar. I took lessons to learn how to play the guitar---but mostly I play by ear. Roger trained me mainly to play the talkbox and to make records. When I say make records [I mean]…not so much the musical, but the technical aspects of putting a record together in the studio. Ed: What type of person was Roger in aspects of teaching music? Rufus: Roger was a light-hearted fun person to be around. Always encouraging. Ed: What did you think Roger saw in you that made him take you under his wings? Rufus: You know, I don’t know exactly. I guess I would say because I used to live with Roger, so it happened by default. Ed: In what year did you play for Zapp/Roger and what did you learn from that experience? Rufus: I got with the Zapp Band in 1986 and I played with them until I got saved which was about 1993. What I learned from that [whole] experience is that you want to sound like the record when you do a live show. Ed: ‘Cause if you don’t you’re in trouble. Rufus: Right, Right. Ed: Upon receiving salvation you were convicted about playing for the Zapp Band. How did Roger and the rest of the family take it, that you would no longer play with them? Rufus: Well, actually, it wasn’t received well at first. So, it was a lot of ‘hateration’ is what I’d call it. However, over time they eventually came around. Ed: Talking about salvation, how did you receive Jesus? Rufus: For me it was very simple: one Sunday, I went to visit a church and I hadn’t been to church in years. However, the preacher was preaching and at the end of his preaching he asked: “Is there anybody that wants to be saved?” So I said, “Yes me! The guy in the back!” So, I went forward that day and that was it. Ed: On April of 1999 Roger’s life was taken and some may say, “Oh. I know he went to hell,” but what some may not know is what happened behind the scenes the night before. Could you talk about the night before on how he got saved and filled with the Holy Spirit? 
Rufus: Well, actually, he received Christ before that [event]. However, that night before, which would have been a Saturday night because Roger was killed on Sunday morning, he was filled with the Holy Spirit. So, he received Christ a little time before that.
Ed: Do you remember the guy’s name that witnessed to him or prayed over him? Rufus: You know what; I forgot the guy’s name. He was connected with a pastor in Ohio in which he (Roger) was talking to quite regularly. Ed: One of Roger’s sons who was also a band member with you (who also passed away prematurely) was named Roger Jr. A.K.A Lynch. Talk about the relationship you had and what you will remember most about him. Rufus: Roger Lynch was a very talented guy who was fun, silly, and we were pretty close. We were cousins actually. Ed: Your uncles Terry (Zapp) & Lester are still doing the Zapp thing, keeping the dream Roger had alive. But did they impart anything to you that you can now use in your ministry? Rufus: They actually taught me---I don’t know if it will make any sense---how to travel. What I mean by that is, when you go on the road there are a lot of adjustments you have to make, so basically, to be prepared when traveling and how to carry myself as an artist. Even though I don’t like the word artist . . . I’ll use the word minister. Ed: Speaking of your uncles Terry (Zapp) & Lester I noticed that for their stage presentation they put the talk box on carts on either side of the stage for mobility. Is that something you might also do in the future? Rufus: What they basically did was put the talk box on something with wheels. Yeah. I might put the talk box on something with wheels but it won’t look that big though. Ed: On YouTube you can see the legacy that your family has: from seeing old and new videos, performances and fans giving talk box tutorials. Can you give us some of your thoughts on this? Rufus: From a natural standpoint it’s a blessing. I’m honored to see the hard work they put into what they did to make this happen. Because a lot of things they did were independent. I don’t know if you realize this but Roger, for example, in his heyday as you will… didn’t have any videos. So, a lot of his success would just be really from underground independents that just pushed him. So, in one aspect I respect what they did: the hard work, the foundation they had laid, and the unique sound Roger crafted in the studio. Ed: Now there has been a lot of confusion about the difference between the talk box, auto-tunes and the vocoder. Could you set the record straight about this, ‘cause you’re the one that would know? Rufus: The talk box is a distinct mechanical instrument. It is something used directly with a keyboard so, you would have more of an authentic sound. Whereas auto-tunes is computer software and is just simply generated by the sound of your voice so it doesn’t sound as robotic as the talk box (Even though some would say that it sounds robotic). But, there is definitely a clear difference. The vocoder in comparison with the two would be in last place. The vocoder is a general instrument used…I don’t know the technical terms, but it is something that you would plug your keyboard into, used through a microphone. Ed: What is the ministry of Rufus Troutman about? Rufus: It is basically mimicked out of I Samuel 16:23 and that scripture says, “And it came to pass when the evil spirit from God was upon Saul that David took a harp and played with his hands.” So, Saul was, number one: refreshed. Number two: well. And number three: the evil spirit departed. What I believe is that God has anointed me in this way…because you don’t hear this word as much anymore in the body: the anointing of the minstrel. When I play with the voice box or whatever…the anointing comes in such a way that people are refreshed, made whole, and if they are not saved (they can be saved) and delivered. Ed: Can we look forward to a myspace page from you? Rufus: No! There will not be a myspace page. However, you can go directly to my website at: www.rufustroutman.com and that will be it pretty much. There is a facebook page that I have. But, as it relates to the music and what I am doing it will be through www.rufustroutman.com. Ed: Why did you decide not to do a myspace page? Rufus: Well, I don’t really particularly like it. I think that it is an irresponsible place for ministers, to use to promote their ministries, simply because one page [can] lead to ungodly pages. And certainly, you can’t control what people do, but you can control what you do and myspace is the type of place where you have kind of limited control. Even though you have what they call ‘friends’, the problem is you can’t control what friends your friends have. So, I don’t want to be responsible for any teenager or young person finding any type of sexually explicit pages starting with my page. Ed: Wow! That’s really commendable. You don’t hear that too much at all. Now if anybody missed out on your last CD, “No Compromise” is there a way that someone can get a copy? Rufus: Yes sir, “No Compromise” will be available at www.rufustroutman.com as well as www.amazon.com. Ed: Do you have any plans to tour in support of the new CD? Rufus: I don’t actually have a tour planned---like a traditional tour---but I am planning some concert dates here in California, as well as what I call ministry outreach dates in Ohio. Probably Cleveland, Cincinnati and maybe Columbus. So, we are working to put those together as we speak. Ed: What advice would you give to someone who wants to be a recording artist? Rufus: A couple of things: I would just simply say first, make sure that it’s the direction God is leading you [into]. Second, prepare yourself in the area He has called you [to] whether it’s production, singing, or ministry. And third, if that is the direction that God has called you, know that it’s ministry and not artistry. While I understand that it is popular but that’s what the world does. The world has artists. God has ministers. Ed: What do you mean when you say artistry? Rufus: Well, the world calls them artists and simply the focus…when you are dealing with artists, while being artistically creative, is not wrong. What happens is, in becoming an artist it brings focus and attention to you, whereas a minister brings direct attention to Jesus Christ. Ed: What would you like the people to know about you that they might not know? Rufus: Yeah! I want the people to know that I’m black, I’m from Ohio, I love Jesus and please support our album. We are independent and [with] the money we get…we support our prison ministry called, ‘You Are Not Forgotten’. With this prison ministry, we basically send off free CD’s to prisoners who are incarcerated just as a means of hope: a seed of hope in life, to encourage them and let them know that God has not forgotten them just because they are behind bars. Ed: Thanks for your time! Rufus: Yeah, man. We finally did it. Talk to you soon. And The Legacy Continues… If you have questions or comments e-mail me at www.edzplace@live.com Shirley Murdock
Shirley Murdock
is Living out Her Dreams Veteran mainstream and gospel vocalist Shirley Murdock is on one incredible journey as the title of her latest CD, ‘The Journey’ suggests. Back in the 80’s Shirley’s goal was to have a career in gospel music, but later she would cross paths with Roger Troutman, bandleader of the R&B funk group Zapp, who offered her an opportunity to sing mainstream music with him. This eventually led her to become a solo artist in her own right and to sign with Elektra Records where she recorded multiple Top 10 R&B hits such as: “As We Lay,” “Go On Without You,” “Husband,” and “In Your Eyes”, all which were produced by Roger Troutman. But with all the success she had, there was still a void in her life…and that was to do gospel music. In this interview, Shirley discusses why she stopped recording R&B music, the events that opened the door for her to have a career in gospel music and her latest Gospel CD/DVD, ‘The Journey’. ________________________________________________________________________________ The Album: Ed: What were the events that led to this project being a live CD/DVD recording? Shirley: A phone call from Bryant Scott President of Tyscot Records…this is my second project with them. [The first project I did with Tyscot Records was] ‘SoulFood’ and that was a studio project. Bryant witnessed me ministering live…there are just some things live that translate better than in the studio. You have that freedom---capturing the anointing of that moment and when you’re dealing with a live band you have that ability to flow---you can flow and go where the Holy Spirit wants to go. Bryant wanted me to do a live project and I had a pretty good run with them on the ‘Soul Food’ CD. That’s the one that had the song, “I Love Me Better Than That” on it. I was a little nervous because I’d never done a live CD before, but we got with a wonderful producer---Grammy Award winning producer Cedric Thompson---who I had worked with before on my first [gospel] CD called, ‘Home’, which was on Bishop T.D. Jakes’ label Dexterity Records. Cedric was really cool to work with and he made it easy. It was great to get a chance to work with him again. |
He put together some awesome musicians and singers and then we spent a couple of days in North Carolina where Cedric’s studio is and went over the map of the songs…what we wanted to do with them. We actually listened to 40 songs and narrowed them down to what’s on the project. The reason why we wanted to name it, ‘The Journey’, is because---my prayer has always been---God show me how to use everything. I wanted to take things that I had learned from my mainstream career and bring them into this wonderful genre of gospel.
I’m rooted in gospel music: from singing in the choir…Oh, my gosh. I grew up in Toledo, OH and the late Dr. Mattie Moss Clark would have Twinkie call me and I would go up to Detroit to do the midnight musicals at Bailey Cathedral, Bailey Temple and all that. So, I knew all those people before most of them had records. The Clark Sisters had some records out and Dr. Mattie Moss Clark had some records out. But, I mean, Vanessa Bell Armstrong would be at those midnight musicals. The Winans, before they were even known as the Winans, were “The Testimonial Singers”. I remember when they used to sing, “The Question Is”, before they even became The Winans and it came out on Light Records. All of my history is gospel music!
I got saved at 15 years old and that was 1972 and the [gospel] music industry was not what it is today. Gospel was only Traditional or Contemporary. Today we have Spoken Word, Hip-Hop, Rap, which is really cool, it has evolved a lot. The church was different, gospel music was different and I was never offered opportunities to sing gospel. I was constantly offered opportunities to do mainstream and I turned them down over and over again. Then I finally met up with the late great Roger Troutman and turned him down too. I was [like asking]: “God, why is this the only door that’s opening?” I tell you, I took that leap of faith and I understood who’s I was and who I was and no matter what job you have, to just continue to be who you are. You bring that to whatever setting you’re in. So, growing up in church… because I’m a praiser and a worshipper I wanted to bring all those elements in too. I wanted to bring all that I am into the music.
I’m rooted in gospel music: from singing in the choir…Oh, my gosh. I grew up in Toledo, OH and the late Dr. Mattie Moss Clark would have Twinkie call me and I would go up to Detroit to do the midnight musicals at Bailey Cathedral, Bailey Temple and all that. So, I knew all those people before most of them had records. The Clark Sisters had some records out and Dr. Mattie Moss Clark had some records out. But, I mean, Vanessa Bell Armstrong would be at those midnight musicals. The Winans, before they were even known as the Winans, were “The Testimonial Singers”. I remember when they used to sing, “The Question Is”, before they even became The Winans and it came out on Light Records. All of my history is gospel music!
I got saved at 15 years old and that was 1972 and the [gospel] music industry was not what it is today. Gospel was only Traditional or Contemporary. Today we have Spoken Word, Hip-Hop, Rap, which is really cool, it has evolved a lot. The church was different, gospel music was different and I was never offered opportunities to sing gospel. I was constantly offered opportunities to do mainstream and I turned them down over and over again. Then I finally met up with the late great Roger Troutman and turned him down too. I was [like asking]: “God, why is this the only door that’s opening?” I tell you, I took that leap of faith and I understood who’s I was and who I was and no matter what job you have, to just continue to be who you are. You bring that to whatever setting you’re in. So, growing up in church… because I’m a praiser and a worshipper I wanted to bring all those elements in too. I wanted to bring all that I am into the music.
So, ‘The Journey’ is really a combination of my life, my development---musically and spiritually. I also had an opportunity to bring some of my good friends along like; Regina Belle, whom I’ve known for over 20 years; Kelly Price, my little sister whom I’ve known for over 10 years and Beverly Crawford whom I’ve known for 10 over years. She and I were both on Bishop T.D. Jakes’ label [Dexterity]. So to bring all those people in to that special night, that special moment…it was awesome, Ed and a dream come true.
I believe music is ministry and it is powerful. When people take the time out to listen to you (because they can listen to anybody it doesn’t have to be you)…I always wanted to do what I call holistic ministry---whole ministry---balanced ministry---because we are body, soul and spirit. I want to sing songs that minister to every part of the human existence.
As Christians we are worshippers: we love God and we love to be in the presence of God. I remember when I first got saved my momma said, “Baby, don’t be so heavenly minded that you’re no earthly good”. What I understood her to say is: you have to have balance in your life. When you come out of the holy of holies you have to come out and live a regular life. Life doesn’t discriminate: it doesn’t care if you’re in the church or out of the church. It’ll knock you up side your head, give you a black eye… but the main thing is we need powerful songs that speak into our lives---as mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers and leaders. We need songs that even speak into our marriages. We wanted to make sure that this CD, ‘The Journey’, was a reflection of my own personal journey and growth and something that people could put in their [own] arsenal to be able to draw from and be encouraged in their own individual journey.
Ed: The First song on your CD, “He Is God”, is the jam! It is one of those songs that if you’re having a bad day, all you have to do is just put on that song and all the stress of the day will go away. What is the story of how that song came together?
Shirley: While we were choosing the songs, we envisioned how it would translate live because we wanted people to experience the journey. The bible says, “Enter His gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise”. So we wanted to come in celebrating the fact that we understood that He is God and because He is God no weapon that is formed will prosper…He’s holy and righteous. We wanted to just praise and set the atmosphere. I’m really pleased that you like it. So, I think we accomplished what we were trying to do.
I love to put hallelujahs and thank you Jesus’ in the atmosphere. When you do that there is a lifting---Jesus said, “If I be lifted up, I’ll draw all men unto me.” So, if you are down, troubled and if you are perplexed, you can change the atmosphere by putting out those hallelujahs and thank you Jesus’. If we lift Him up, He will draw…and He dwells in the midst of our praise. If you need to be in His presence for His fullness of joy just go ahead and praise Him! Give Him the glory that is due His name and He will show up!
Ed: There was just one thing that was missing from this project and that was Bart “Sure 2 B” Thomas on the talk box. Why was that left out this time around?
I believe music is ministry and it is powerful. When people take the time out to listen to you (because they can listen to anybody it doesn’t have to be you)…I always wanted to do what I call holistic ministry---whole ministry---balanced ministry---because we are body, soul and spirit. I want to sing songs that minister to every part of the human existence.
As Christians we are worshippers: we love God and we love to be in the presence of God. I remember when I first got saved my momma said, “Baby, don’t be so heavenly minded that you’re no earthly good”. What I understood her to say is: you have to have balance in your life. When you come out of the holy of holies you have to come out and live a regular life. Life doesn’t discriminate: it doesn’t care if you’re in the church or out of the church. It’ll knock you up side your head, give you a black eye… but the main thing is we need powerful songs that speak into our lives---as mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers and leaders. We need songs that even speak into our marriages. We wanted to make sure that this CD, ‘The Journey’, was a reflection of my own personal journey and growth and something that people could put in their [own] arsenal to be able to draw from and be encouraged in their own individual journey.
Ed: The First song on your CD, “He Is God”, is the jam! It is one of those songs that if you’re having a bad day, all you have to do is just put on that song and all the stress of the day will go away. What is the story of how that song came together?
Shirley: While we were choosing the songs, we envisioned how it would translate live because we wanted people to experience the journey. The bible says, “Enter His gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise”. So we wanted to come in celebrating the fact that we understood that He is God and because He is God no weapon that is formed will prosper…He’s holy and righteous. We wanted to just praise and set the atmosphere. I’m really pleased that you like it. So, I think we accomplished what we were trying to do.
I love to put hallelujahs and thank you Jesus’ in the atmosphere. When you do that there is a lifting---Jesus said, “If I be lifted up, I’ll draw all men unto me.” So, if you are down, troubled and if you are perplexed, you can change the atmosphere by putting out those hallelujahs and thank you Jesus’. If we lift Him up, He will draw…and He dwells in the midst of our praise. If you need to be in His presence for His fullness of joy just go ahead and praise Him! Give Him the glory that is due His name and He will show up!
Ed: There was just one thing that was missing from this project and that was Bart “Sure 2 B” Thomas on the talk box. Why was that left out this time around?
Shirley: Maybe on the next one, I wanted to get back to my (more) gospel roots. The songs we chosen for our guest artists…we wanted to make sure they were perfect for…Beverly. I grew up singing those types of songs in my choir. We wanted some good ol’ handclapping, foot stomping church songs---so who better than Beverly Crawford. Songs with a jazz feel---that’s Regina’s thing and with something a little more contemporary---that’s Kelly and I. We fit together and when we come together…we’re great friends. Having an opportunity to praise the Lord and to let people experience not only our love for the Lord, but our love for each other…it was an awesome night, Ed!
Ed: The central theme of this project is about living the dreams that God has placed within is. But, when circumstances come into our lives to try to kill those dreams whether it be financial, or people just hating on you, telling you that you can’t, and they don’t know what to do---what type of advice could you give that person?
Ed: The central theme of this project is about living the dreams that God has placed within is. But, when circumstances come into our lives to try to kill those dreams whether it be financial, or people just hating on you, telling you that you can’t, and they don’t know what to do---what type of advice could you give that person?
Shirley: I would remind them that everyday they wake up and have another breath…that it’s not over because God is not a man that He should lie. Whatever God has spoken into your life…I have to relate this back to, ‘The Journey’. Some people think that their journey begins when they are born and ends when they die, but I believe that the journey begins when you become an idea in the mind of God.
The word says, “He knows the thoughts and the plans that He has towards you. Thoughts and plans of peace and not evil to give you an expected end”---that means to give you a hope and a future. So God has an idea and a plan for you. Many times people get discouraged because they have been disconnected from their dreams. Maybe it’s because they have been around dream annihilators and dream assassins or have been in relationships that have gone passed the expiration date and they have become toxic. All those things can weigh you down and take you off the path. But if you just reconnect back to the dream giver, the dream keeper and the dream fulfiller He can put you on a path that will lead you right towards your destiny.
I would even say that you have to be mindful and not tell everybody your dreams. Some people can not stand under the weight of your anointing and the call on your life. Like the song says, “We’re moving on the upward way”, if you’re going to move on the upward way sometimes you have to forget about the things that are behind you and forget about your past. There are some people that you will have to let go of because they will weigh you down and are not supposed to be a part of your destiny. You will have to be able to discern who to bring into your holy of holies.
To me it's like---God who is spirit speaks to your spirit reminding you that He watches over his word to perform it. So, I would admonish that person to be encouraged and I would also refer them to Joseph as an example. The story of Joseph…it’s even in Psalm 105 and it talks about a famine coming and the word tried Joseph until it came to past. So whatever you’re going through, or are tried by, or whatever the hardships---the word is trying you. In trying we think negatively, but trying is a part of building, pruning, maturing and---sharpening making your rough places smooth…its boot camp! It’s a process by which God gets you from the idea in His mind when He thought of you to bringing that dream to fruition.
It is important not to despise or be discouraged by the process because if you despise the process you will have aborted the purpose. Joseph didn’t have the 66 books of the bible like we have…and it said that the word tried him---he had the dream. He had what God showed him and the dream is a glimpse of your future self---being who God says you are. So you hold on to that dream and even as you wait on the Lord you don’t wait on the Lord with your feet propped up like you’re waiting on a waitress or waiter to bring you your coffee or to refill your water glass. Waiting is like being the waiter or the waitress because you’re busy doing…honing your craft…you’re doing that thing until God lifts the curtain like a stage to present you as a gift before the world.
If you’re a waiter you don’t sit there and twiddle your fingers, you refill the salt shakers, the pepper shakers or fold the napkins---you’re busy constantly doing it believing and understanding that God is going to bring your dream into fruition. When Joseph had that dream and he was in the pit that seemed more like a nightmare…ya’ feel me...when he was in Potiphar’s house he [Joseph] was a foreigner but he learned the customs of the people and was put in charge. He learned to govern a household and that was boot camp for a brother. When Joseph came to the fruition of his dream, being second in command to Pharaoh, he already had learned what he needed to know in order to get there.
No matter what you’re going through, life will prepare you for what it is God has for you. God loves us so much that He is not going to let us get there ahead of time, because if we get there ahead of time we can’t maintain it or it may cause us to be in a position to backslide and say, “Forget you God. I’m on my own.”
What’s important to understand is that God has a plan---and there’s a process: there is an anointed time and an appointed time. Joseph was anointed way before he was appointed and he learned some stuff in between that prepared him.
The Journey:
Ed: Was singing something that came natural to you or did you have some training?
The word says, “He knows the thoughts and the plans that He has towards you. Thoughts and plans of peace and not evil to give you an expected end”---that means to give you a hope and a future. So God has an idea and a plan for you. Many times people get discouraged because they have been disconnected from their dreams. Maybe it’s because they have been around dream annihilators and dream assassins or have been in relationships that have gone passed the expiration date and they have become toxic. All those things can weigh you down and take you off the path. But if you just reconnect back to the dream giver, the dream keeper and the dream fulfiller He can put you on a path that will lead you right towards your destiny.
I would even say that you have to be mindful and not tell everybody your dreams. Some people can not stand under the weight of your anointing and the call on your life. Like the song says, “We’re moving on the upward way”, if you’re going to move on the upward way sometimes you have to forget about the things that are behind you and forget about your past. There are some people that you will have to let go of because they will weigh you down and are not supposed to be a part of your destiny. You will have to be able to discern who to bring into your holy of holies.
To me it's like---God who is spirit speaks to your spirit reminding you that He watches over his word to perform it. So, I would admonish that person to be encouraged and I would also refer them to Joseph as an example. The story of Joseph…it’s even in Psalm 105 and it talks about a famine coming and the word tried Joseph until it came to past. So whatever you’re going through, or are tried by, or whatever the hardships---the word is trying you. In trying we think negatively, but trying is a part of building, pruning, maturing and---sharpening making your rough places smooth…its boot camp! It’s a process by which God gets you from the idea in His mind when He thought of you to bringing that dream to fruition.
It is important not to despise or be discouraged by the process because if you despise the process you will have aborted the purpose. Joseph didn’t have the 66 books of the bible like we have…and it said that the word tried him---he had the dream. He had what God showed him and the dream is a glimpse of your future self---being who God says you are. So you hold on to that dream and even as you wait on the Lord you don’t wait on the Lord with your feet propped up like you’re waiting on a waitress or waiter to bring you your coffee or to refill your water glass. Waiting is like being the waiter or the waitress because you’re busy doing…honing your craft…you’re doing that thing until God lifts the curtain like a stage to present you as a gift before the world.
If you’re a waiter you don’t sit there and twiddle your fingers, you refill the salt shakers, the pepper shakers or fold the napkins---you’re busy constantly doing it believing and understanding that God is going to bring your dream into fruition. When Joseph had that dream and he was in the pit that seemed more like a nightmare…ya’ feel me...when he was in Potiphar’s house he [Joseph] was a foreigner but he learned the customs of the people and was put in charge. He learned to govern a household and that was boot camp for a brother. When Joseph came to the fruition of his dream, being second in command to Pharaoh, he already had learned what he needed to know in order to get there.
No matter what you’re going through, life will prepare you for what it is God has for you. God loves us so much that He is not going to let us get there ahead of time, because if we get there ahead of time we can’t maintain it or it may cause us to be in a position to backslide and say, “Forget you God. I’m on my own.”
What’s important to understand is that God has a plan---and there’s a process: there is an anointed time and an appointed time. Joseph was anointed way before he was appointed and he learned some stuff in between that prepared him.
The Journey:
Ed: Was singing something that came natural to you or did you have some training?
Shirley: Never trained! It was a gift from God! When I share this I always have people cracking up: I believe when I was born, when the doctor smacked my bottom, instead of crying I hit a note or some kind of riff.
You know, Ed, as long as I was cognizant that I existed I’ve always been able to sing and mimic people like Gladys Knight, Aretha Franklin, Shirley Caesar, Stevie Wonder---all these singers were my teachers…I was never formally trained.
Being in the choir, [though,] was good training for strengthening my voice and learning [how to harmonize]. A lot of my records are very heavy on harmony and I do a lot of my own background because I just love singing harmony. I can sing harmony with myself and I can match myself note for note and riff for riff. It’s just a gift from God, Ed.
Over the years I just continue to hone my skills: to listen and understand that [I] don’t know everything. [I] have to stay open to learn more.
Ed: At what point in your life did you desire to sing professionally?
You know, Ed, as long as I was cognizant that I existed I’ve always been able to sing and mimic people like Gladys Knight, Aretha Franklin, Shirley Caesar, Stevie Wonder---all these singers were my teachers…I was never formally trained.
Being in the choir, [though,] was good training for strengthening my voice and learning [how to harmonize]. A lot of my records are very heavy on harmony and I do a lot of my own background because I just love singing harmony. I can sing harmony with myself and I can match myself note for note and riff for riff. It’s just a gift from God, Ed.
Over the years I just continue to hone my skills: to listen and understand that [I] don’t know everything. [I] have to stay open to learn more.
Ed: At what point in your life did you desire to sing professionally?
Shirley: My dream started as a little girl, Ed, watching those Saturday matinees with Shirley Temple. She was young. And she could sing and dance…that was a glimpse of my future self. I said, “One day, I’m going to do that,” and God has made those dreams come true. Not only with the singing but [traveling] all over the world: being successful with mainstream and being able to continue to sing Gospel…That’s another reason why Aretha Franklin was such an influence: she was able to take her gift and be a blessing to the body of Christ and she was able to take her gift and share it with the world…to be able to share that good news because that’s what gospel is, good news.
I love when I’m in a setting where I can share my whole journey. I don’t deny my R & B background…to deny that would be to deny the majority of my life in the music industry. Like I said, God showed me how to use everything. What I’ve come to understand is: God made me famous; He gave me a name and I gave Him my gift and I gave Him my name… I gave it back to Him to do whatever He saw fit to do. When I gave up my secular career I didn’t give it up because [I was] living a sinful life. My testimony in the music industry, Ed, was this: I never lived a crazy life; I’d never done drugs in my life; I don’t drink alcohol; I wasn’t bringing men back to my hotel room after a show.
I’ve been married for 23 years and in the business for over 25 and most of that time I spent married to my husband [Dale DeGroat]. Dale came in as a producer for Roger and became his music director, so I married Roger’s music director and I’ve known him for over 25 years. My testimony is this: is that the Holy Ghost will keep you wherever you go if you want to be kept. So I continue to share my faith…if you go back to all my records, you’ll find a gospel song on it even though that wasn’t popular. In interviews I talked about my relationship with God and my faith. In my shows I always included gospel, which opened the door for me to talk to backsliders. I’d be in the clubs singing gospel and somebody would come to me and say, “I used to be saved” , but to minister to that person Ed I’d say, “What do you mean, used to be? God is married to the backslider. There’s nothing you’ve done that He can’t and won’t forgive. He’s standing right here, right now with His arms open wide ready to receive you.” So right there, in the kitchen of a club Ed that person gave their life back to the Lord.
I love when I’m in a setting where I can share my whole journey. I don’t deny my R & B background…to deny that would be to deny the majority of my life in the music industry. Like I said, God showed me how to use everything. What I’ve come to understand is: God made me famous; He gave me a name and I gave Him my gift and I gave Him my name… I gave it back to Him to do whatever He saw fit to do. When I gave up my secular career I didn’t give it up because [I was] living a sinful life. My testimony in the music industry, Ed, was this: I never lived a crazy life; I’d never done drugs in my life; I don’t drink alcohol; I wasn’t bringing men back to my hotel room after a show.
I’ve been married for 23 years and in the business for over 25 and most of that time I spent married to my husband [Dale DeGroat]. Dale came in as a producer for Roger and became his music director, so I married Roger’s music director and I’ve known him for over 25 years. My testimony is this: is that the Holy Ghost will keep you wherever you go if you want to be kept. So I continue to share my faith…if you go back to all my records, you’ll find a gospel song on it even though that wasn’t popular. In interviews I talked about my relationship with God and my faith. In my shows I always included gospel, which opened the door for me to talk to backsliders. I’d be in the clubs singing gospel and somebody would come to me and say, “I used to be saved” , but to minister to that person Ed I’d say, “What do you mean, used to be? God is married to the backslider. There’s nothing you’ve done that He can’t and won’t forgive. He’s standing right here, right now with His arms open wide ready to receive you.” So right there, in the kitchen of a club Ed that person gave their life back to the Lord.
I’m not saying that my life was perfect. There was a time in my life when I was going after my career with more fervor than I was with the Lord. And the Holy Spirit checked me. And when the Holy Spirit checked me I remember saying, “God, I get it! Lord I don’t love this more than I love you. I’ll give this up any time you say.” I heard him say, stay back your hand, now I know you love ME more than you love IT!” Years later I did give it up. The bible says, if you delight yourself in the Lord that He will give you the desires of your heart. I ran across Bishop T.D. Jakes while I was singing with the praise and worship team at my church, The Solid Rock Church in Monroe, Ohio. Bishop Jakes came in to preach for our anniversary and afterwards there was a gathering at my pastor’s house and I met him and we spoke. I told him who I was and what I did and I said, “Bishop, I don’t feel the Lord is calling me out of mainstream because I minister in mainstream, but whenever God’s ready I’m ready.” I told him I’d never had the opportunity to sing gospel…and through that I was on Bishop T.D Jakes’ ‘Sacred Love Songs’ CD [and was featured on two songs] “The Lady, Her Lover, And Lord”, “You Are My Ministry”, and several of his choir projects, then he started a record label [Dexterity Sounds]. Then he came to me and said, “Shirley, you said that you never had an opportunity to do gospel, but I started a record label and here is your opportunity.” But Ed, I was signed to Warner Bros and was scheduled to do another R&B album so, I went to Roger and I said, “Hey, buddy, I finally have an opportunity to sing gospel and I want to be released from Warner Bros.” My friend said to me, “Baby, I’m not surprised! That’s what you were doing when I met you.” And Roger went through all kinds of hoops to get me released from Warner Bros. I was released on paper Ed, December of 1998 and Roger passed away on April of 1999.
Ed: Wow! Roger must have been a real generous type of guy. It’s very rare that you would hear something like that because that’s money out of his pocket that he won’t be receiving as a producer. Most of the time you’ll hear about the horror stories about wanting to get out of a contract in the mainstream industry.
Ed: Wow! Roger must have been a real generous type of guy. It’s very rare that you would hear something like that because that’s money out of his pocket that he won’t be receiving as a producer. Most of the time you’ll hear about the horror stories about wanting to get out of a contract in the mainstream industry.
Shirley: Roger loved me! You know what I mean? He was my friend…I tell you some more good news, before Roger left this earth, he knew the Lord! My husband and I had the opportunity to witness to him not only verbally but through our lives. I remember him telling me, “I watched your life”. I remember one time we were on promotional tour and we’re on his Red Studio Bus and we were recording my last album with Elektra called, ‘Let There Be Love’. We’re just talking and he said that he was afraid to die. I said that, “You don’t have to be afraid to die!” I told him when you give your life to the Lord…I was just telling him how we live to live again and what we do on this side is that we prepare for our eternal life and that’s when he told me, “I watched your life” and all that…a little bit after that he came back to me Ed and said, “I’m not afraid to die. You told me if I give my life to the Lord that my name will be written in the Lambs book of life and that I’ll live again and I’ll be with Jesus.” I’m telling you when Roger left this earth he was saved and filled with the Holy Ghost!
Ed: Wow!
Shirley: It is amazing! We are the salt of the earth and we can’t keep the salt in the shaker. We have to be who we are and whose we are and be an ambassador for the kingdom of God in every station in life. If everybody ran into the four walls how can the world hear the word? How can the world know what Christianity looks like? We can’t be afraid to go to the highways and by-ways… isn’t that what the great commission is all about? So for me, it wasn’t a matter of, “Oh man, I’m gonna go sing gospel, because my life is so jacked up.” I always wanted to sing gospel and God showed me favor and opened that door…the rest is history! I love it when I have the opportunity to go to those same places and tell those same people, “Baby, “God is not mad it you. He loves you with a love that’s beyond your comprehension. He gave His life so you can be reconciled back to Him and back to your purpose and back to that dream He gave you…that glimpse of your future self.
Ed: Wow!
Shirley: It is amazing! We are the salt of the earth and we can’t keep the salt in the shaker. We have to be who we are and whose we are and be an ambassador for the kingdom of God in every station in life. If everybody ran into the four walls how can the world hear the word? How can the world know what Christianity looks like? We can’t be afraid to go to the highways and by-ways… isn’t that what the great commission is all about? So for me, it wasn’t a matter of, “Oh man, I’m gonna go sing gospel, because my life is so jacked up.” I always wanted to sing gospel and God showed me favor and opened that door…the rest is history! I love it when I have the opportunity to go to those same places and tell those same people, “Baby, “God is not mad it you. He loves you with a love that’s beyond your comprehension. He gave His life so you can be reconciled back to Him and back to your purpose and back to that dream He gave you…that glimpse of your future self.
For me I know that I’m called to be an evangelist. I have a word of encouragement and exhortation for the body of Christ, but my real work is that I’m a fisherman…a fisher of men. I just don’t fish on the bank baby, I’m a deep sea fisherman. I have to go way out in the deep to get those exotic fish and go back and get my industry. I’m just excited and honored that God would trust me. When I look back over my life and my journey…He trained me already to do it. I learned how to walk with God by myself, meaning that wither the church knew that I was one of them or not…I learned how to walk without the approval of other people. I learned to walk with Him and learned His voice. When He says move I learned how to move. I don’t need validation from anybody because of my personal walk with God.
So, I’m happy to be able to take this good news and share my journey, but I love it when I can take it outside the four walls of the church and to minister to the lost and I seen God add to the church. Like you know how back in the days of the early church…and the Lord added to the church daily…it’s about soul winning! This journey of mine…I know it’s unique, it’s not typical, it’s not churchy, but it is my journey. We all have an individual journey and we should embrace and celebrate our uniqueness and the unique call that God has for each of our lives.
Ed: What was it like working in the studio with Roger?
Shirley: It was absolutely phenomenal! Roger was a musical genius! I don’t think there was an instrument that he couldn’t play. I remember he asked me to move to Dayton, Ohio…he said, “If we’re going to make this record, I need you to move to Dayton because you’re a church singer and gifted, but there are things about the studio and recording that I need to teach you.”
I learned so many things and life lessons…he grew me up musically. He was my great friend, my big brother, my mentor…I’ll tell you one of the lessons that he taught me---he said, “Shirley, you know, “As We Lay” is on top of the charts, but it can’t say up there. There are so many records right underneath yours waiting for that spot. You need to come talk to me.” When I went to Roger he said, “You know right now, as far as the record company is concerned you’re the best thing since Christmas. They have your poster up there and they’ll name their kids after you. But when that record comes off the charts they’re going to take your poster down and put somebody else’s up there and you’ll be lucky if they will accept your phone call.”
He said, “Baby girl, this is what you do: do a great record. Make sure that your live performances are great, but this is the key: stay touchable to the people and they will support you for the rest of your life.” I saw it to be true for him…it continues to be true to me. He said, “When you’re number one with the people you’re number one forever.” You take time to sign autographs and be touchable---I’ve seen it over and over. Shirley fans, they buy the records, they come to the plays---I’ve been acting for about 15 years now. I’ve done film and DVD work, with the gospel plays which are played on BET and the Gospel Music Channel. I’ve done some independent films… just all kinds of things. So all those dreams…‘Shirley Temple dreams’ (laughing) I see them….they’re coming true. When your dream comes true; dream a new dream. There are so many layers and so many things that God has for us. I’ve seen those things come true and Roger taught me so much. I’m still chewing off the wisdom and the things he shared with me over the years. I’d rather to have loved him and lost him than to have never had him at all.
Larry [Troutman] was like a second father figure. They perfected me, took care of me, they didn’t let me be pimped by the music business. They taught me about writing and publishing and all those things. As a first time artist…most artists sign away everything! They taught me so much and I’ll be forever grateful.
[But] speaking of Roger being able to play any kind of instrument: I remember one time, Ed, that we went to BET with Donnie Simpson back in the day and Roger pulled out a banjo and played the theme song from the Beverly Hillbillies, dude! He could play harmonica…and he did a mean imitation of Daffy Duck too. He was a funny guy. He made everybody comfortable and made you feel like he was your best friend. His loved life and he wanted to make music to make people happy and make people forget about their troubles. Roger was also a very generous front guy…meaning that he was not selfish with the stage. He would always have me go out there and do a solo---he and I would do a duet together. Roger only had one requirement for anybody that wanted to front the band. He said, “You can go out and front the band. I just have one requirement…Do not bore my fans!” (Laughing) Roger was very, very unselfish and he was such a jewel of a person. I love him, miss him, and he was just a great guy.
Ed: Speaking of Roger, Recently you’ve been involved in a campaign to have a Roger Troutman Memorial erected in Dayton, Ohio. Could you talk about how that got started and how someone can contribute?
I learned so many things and life lessons…he grew me up musically. He was my great friend, my big brother, my mentor…I’ll tell you one of the lessons that he taught me---he said, “Shirley, you know, “As We Lay” is on top of the charts, but it can’t say up there. There are so many records right underneath yours waiting for that spot. You need to come talk to me.” When I went to Roger he said, “You know right now, as far as the record company is concerned you’re the best thing since Christmas. They have your poster up there and they’ll name their kids after you. But when that record comes off the charts they’re going to take your poster down and put somebody else’s up there and you’ll be lucky if they will accept your phone call.”
He said, “Baby girl, this is what you do: do a great record. Make sure that your live performances are great, but this is the key: stay touchable to the people and they will support you for the rest of your life.” I saw it to be true for him…it continues to be true to me. He said, “When you’re number one with the people you’re number one forever.” You take time to sign autographs and be touchable---I’ve seen it over and over. Shirley fans, they buy the records, they come to the plays---I’ve been acting for about 15 years now. I’ve done film and DVD work, with the gospel plays which are played on BET and the Gospel Music Channel. I’ve done some independent films… just all kinds of things. So all those dreams…‘Shirley Temple dreams’ (laughing) I see them….they’re coming true. When your dream comes true; dream a new dream. There are so many layers and so many things that God has for us. I’ve seen those things come true and Roger taught me so much. I’m still chewing off the wisdom and the things he shared with me over the years. I’d rather to have loved him and lost him than to have never had him at all.
Larry [Troutman] was like a second father figure. They perfected me, took care of me, they didn’t let me be pimped by the music business. They taught me about writing and publishing and all those things. As a first time artist…most artists sign away everything! They taught me so much and I’ll be forever grateful.
[But] speaking of Roger being able to play any kind of instrument: I remember one time, Ed, that we went to BET with Donnie Simpson back in the day and Roger pulled out a banjo and played the theme song from the Beverly Hillbillies, dude! He could play harmonica…and he did a mean imitation of Daffy Duck too. He was a funny guy. He made everybody comfortable and made you feel like he was your best friend. His loved life and he wanted to make music to make people happy and make people forget about their troubles. Roger was also a very generous front guy…meaning that he was not selfish with the stage. He would always have me go out there and do a solo---he and I would do a duet together. Roger only had one requirement for anybody that wanted to front the band. He said, “You can go out and front the band. I just have one requirement…Do not bore my fans!” (Laughing) Roger was very, very unselfish and he was such a jewel of a person. I love him, miss him, and he was just a great guy.
Ed: Speaking of Roger, Recently you’ve been involved in a campaign to have a Roger Troutman Memorial erected in Dayton, Ohio. Could you talk about how that got started and how someone can contribute?
Shirley: It’s still going on as we speak. It’s called; ‘Roger Troutman The Music Lives On’… located at the former site of the Troutman Sound Labs…2010 Salem Avenue, at Catalpa Drive in Dayton, Ohio. A lot of property in that area has been torn down…and I remember that back in the day the Troutman brothers would go into the inner city and built and refurbished houses to try to bring up the neighborhood.
There’s a group in Dayton, Ohio called The Phoenix Project that consists of the city of Dayton and Good Samaritan Hospital, with CityWide Development and they’re actually doing the same thing. They’ve torn down old dilapidated homes and building new ones. There’s a gateway right at the corner of Salem and Catalpa Drive…and they commissioned a local artist by the name of Michael Bashaw to do a sound sculpture to place right there. When I saw what was going on…I spoke to the Mayor of the city at that time, Rhine McLin… she put me in touch with the people at The Phoenix Project. I talked to them and said, “You know, Roger Troutman should be included in this celebration at the gateway for the revitalization of the neighborhood.” And everybody agreed.
So, we’re partnering up with them to see to it that it happens. So there’s a sound sculpture that’s going to be erected and it’s a publicly funded project. So if anybody is interested in donating…all donations are tax-deductible. You can go to facebook at: Roger Troutman “The Music Lives On” and there will be a link to The Dayton foundation. They will be collecting all the money. They have a wonderful reputation…they handle a lot of funds for a lot of charities. If anybody is interested we would definitely appreciate their help. When it is all said and done, we’re going to have a celebration to reveal it and anything over financially will go to the maintenance of the sound sculpture and also toward a scholarship in Roger’s name for someone who is interested in music. So the music does live on and his legacy and life continues.
Ed: You mentioned before that you met your husband Dale through your association with the Troutman organization. How did that friendship blossom into marriage?
There’s a group in Dayton, Ohio called The Phoenix Project that consists of the city of Dayton and Good Samaritan Hospital, with CityWide Development and they’re actually doing the same thing. They’ve torn down old dilapidated homes and building new ones. There’s a gateway right at the corner of Salem and Catalpa Drive…and they commissioned a local artist by the name of Michael Bashaw to do a sound sculpture to place right there. When I saw what was going on…I spoke to the Mayor of the city at that time, Rhine McLin… she put me in touch with the people at The Phoenix Project. I talked to them and said, “You know, Roger Troutman should be included in this celebration at the gateway for the revitalization of the neighborhood.” And everybody agreed.
So, we’re partnering up with them to see to it that it happens. So there’s a sound sculpture that’s going to be erected and it’s a publicly funded project. So if anybody is interested in donating…all donations are tax-deductible. You can go to facebook at: Roger Troutman “The Music Lives On” and there will be a link to The Dayton foundation. They will be collecting all the money. They have a wonderful reputation…they handle a lot of funds for a lot of charities. If anybody is interested we would definitely appreciate their help. When it is all said and done, we’re going to have a celebration to reveal it and anything over financially will go to the maintenance of the sound sculpture and also toward a scholarship in Roger’s name for someone who is interested in music. So the music does live on and his legacy and life continues.
Ed: You mentioned before that you met your husband Dale through your association with the Troutman organization. How did that friendship blossom into marriage?
Shirley: Dale was hired in as a producer and I was on the road traveling with Roger. We had producers working on various projects. The first time Dale heard me sing, he thought I was one of the Clark Sisters. We met and became friends---we were two church kids in the music industry. What was so funny is that we knew all the gospel songs and we said, “We are the only Christians in the midst of a bunch of heathens.” We kept each other encouraged and became great, great friends. Our friendship blossomed into 23 years of marriage and we have a wonderful 19 year old son, who is a sophomore at the Ohio State University. Our son (Devin) is there on an academic scholarship, we’re proud parents and we have been truly, truly blessed.
To survive marriage in the music industry…I think because our foundation as individuals is our relationship with God and we bring that to the table. We always understood that we can’t police each other. If my relationship with God doesn’t police me, then I can’t be policed and vice versa. There’s trust and there’s friendship---he is my best friend and not only do I love him, but I like him…he’s a cool dude!
It’s just amazing because just living your life, being who you are in whatever setting God places you in…today I can say the majority of the members of Zapp have a relationship with God…they’re walking in their own personal relationship with God. It’s amazing and to God be the glory.
Ed: What are some of your hobbies?
Shirley: My husband and I are writing partners. We write and we produce together. Dale is my manager. We love to go to the movies. Back in the day we used to play video games…and yes we have a Wii at our house! We’ll pull out the Wii and play tennis. The thing that we enjoy is spending time with each other.
When my son comes home from college we’re like three peas in a pod…we’re very, very close. We have our favorite TV shows that we watch together; we pray together, we encourage each other. We’re both preachers…Dale is the assistant pastor at the church that he grew up in---Springfield, Ohio---Second Baptist. Dale is an ordained minister and music director for Zapp, so he gets to sometimes speak to tens of thousand of people when Zapp is out there and speak a word for God and encourage some people---so we believe in Jesus style ministry.
Ed: When the final piece of the puzzle of your journey is in place, what do you believe the whole picture will look like or say?
To survive marriage in the music industry…I think because our foundation as individuals is our relationship with God and we bring that to the table. We always understood that we can’t police each other. If my relationship with God doesn’t police me, then I can’t be policed and vice versa. There’s trust and there’s friendship---he is my best friend and not only do I love him, but I like him…he’s a cool dude!
It’s just amazing because just living your life, being who you are in whatever setting God places you in…today I can say the majority of the members of Zapp have a relationship with God…they’re walking in their own personal relationship with God. It’s amazing and to God be the glory.
Ed: What are some of your hobbies?
Shirley: My husband and I are writing partners. We write and we produce together. Dale is my manager. We love to go to the movies. Back in the day we used to play video games…and yes we have a Wii at our house! We’ll pull out the Wii and play tennis. The thing that we enjoy is spending time with each other.
When my son comes home from college we’re like three peas in a pod…we’re very, very close. We have our favorite TV shows that we watch together; we pray together, we encourage each other. We’re both preachers…Dale is the assistant pastor at the church that he grew up in---Springfield, Ohio---Second Baptist. Dale is an ordained minister and music director for Zapp, so he gets to sometimes speak to tens of thousand of people when Zapp is out there and speak a word for God and encourage some people---so we believe in Jesus style ministry.
Ed: When the final piece of the puzzle of your journey is in place, what do you believe the whole picture will look like or say?
Shirley: I think the picture will look very much like it is now, just more seasoned. I still have some dreams... I still dream to do Broadway. I believe that’s going to happen. I’m continually honing my acting skills. I’m still doing plays and theater, but the main thing is to win souls for the kingdom! Through every medium, every gift that God has given me…to be salt. Salt can only save and preserve what it touches. [I will] continue to be touchable---touch lives, touch people, encourage people, point them toward the Lord---reconnecting them back to the dream giver---getting them back to their purpose…to the idea when God said, “I know the thoughts and the plans that I have towards you…”
Ed: Is there something the general public might not know about you that you would like them to know?
Shirley: Prior to coming into the music business one of the things I wanted to do was become a fashion designer---I can draw. I have been able to draw since I was a little girl. Even in elementary school where I grew up, in Toledo, Ohio, The Toledo Museum of Art sent people around the public schools to see who had art talent. They saw that I had talent in art and I was selected to go to the Toledo School of Design. We had Saturday classes at the Toledo Museum of Art, so that was something very, very special. Another thing that people might not know about me…I’m a little crazy (laughing) ---meaning I love to have fun and make people laugh.
Ed: Shirley! I would like to thank you for your time!
Shirley: You’re very welcome Ed.
If you have questions or comments e-mail me at edzplace@live.com.
Edited By Lillian J. Anderson
Special Thanks goes out to Dale DeGroat!
Ed: Is there something the general public might not know about you that you would like them to know?
Shirley: Prior to coming into the music business one of the things I wanted to do was become a fashion designer---I can draw. I have been able to draw since I was a little girl. Even in elementary school where I grew up, in Toledo, Ohio, The Toledo Museum of Art sent people around the public schools to see who had art talent. They saw that I had talent in art and I was selected to go to the Toledo School of Design. We had Saturday classes at the Toledo Museum of Art, so that was something very, very special. Another thing that people might not know about me…I’m a little crazy (laughing) ---meaning I love to have fun and make people laugh.
Ed: Shirley! I would like to thank you for your time!
Shirley: You’re very welcome Ed.
If you have questions or comments e-mail me at edzplace@live.com.
Edited By Lillian J. Anderson
Special Thanks goes out to Dale DeGroat!
Karima Kibble
Karima Kibble
Stepping Into Her Destiny
Karima Kibble has earned many accolades from being lead singer for the gospel group, “Virtue”. She has received many Stellar, Grammy and Dove Award nominations, selling over 500,000 units along with her sisters Ebony and Heather. They have made a statement in the music industry by showing that female groups can have longevity and make good music without having all the drama. But this time around Karima steps out on her own with her new solo debut, “Just Karima”. This CD is very personal for Karima. The listener will be able to identify with each song as she delivers them with fiery passion from her own life experiences.
In this interview Karima talks about her decision to step out to release a solo project, the future of the group, “Virtue” and why she started her own record label. And now, it’s just, Karima!!!!!!
Ed: Hey Karima, I just love your new CD!
Karima: Thank you.
Ed: It exceeded all my expectations! When I first picked it up I said to myself, “I don’t know . . .” But when I listened to it...I was like, “Wow!” You did a very professional job from top to bottom and I have to say that you have an excellent album.
Karima: I’m glad to hear that.
Ed: What was it like stepping out from among your sisters to do a solo project?
Karima: It was scary. Just like you said, “When you picked it up you didn’t know…” That’s the reaction I thought everybody would have. But God stepped in and showed me and told me that He would have my back. God opened up every door for me and made the CD all that I dreamed it would be. It was scary and it’s still kind of weird because I have been singing with my sisters for so long that there was a comfort zone and level for me…I had to step out of that comfort level. In doing that I have grown a lot. As far as the project is concerned I was able to be an individual because in a group you aren’t able to do that. What I mean is that I don’t think there’s anything wrong with [being in a group] because you’re a group, but at the same time some people want to know you individually. I wasn’t able to do that. So, the whole project is me…it’s my life! It’s Karima as an individual…I’m being transparent to all that listen and I hope that they [the listeners] can actually feel that in listening to the music.
Ed: How did Ebony and Heather take the news of you wanting to do a solo project?
Karima: They actually were very supportive and they still are. They were blown away because they were like (I was)…I didn’t know I had writing capabilities such as those displayed on the record. They’re just excited! They listen to it as much as I listen to it, if not more. They know all of the songs and they are very supportive of me, as I expected them to be, being that they are my sisters.
Ed: Is this the first time you displayed your writing abilities on a project?
Karima: Being in the group we actually had a chance to write on one song here, one song there, but together. So, me stepping aside and actually…physically sitting down writing in a studio…it was just completely different. I didn’t think I could do it or pull it off without my sisters because I’ve been with them forever. Everything was just a faith thing. I had to step out, not be afraid and let the fear go. Once I did that…once anybody does that actually, you’ll be able to reach any goals that you have to reach. You just have to do it. Get beyond the fear. That’s what I did.
Ed: Is there a certain formula you go by when you write a song?
Karima: This time I was given tracks and actually able to pick the ones that I wanted. When I heard the music I knew what I wanted to write about. You know whether you like [a song] the first five seconds. To me when it comes on you’ll say, “Ohh, I like that.” I was able to do that. In listening to the tracks maybe a couple of times I knew what I was going to write about. So, I had the music first and then we wrote.
Ed: Did you write about 30 songs (laughing) and just picked the best 11?
Karima: (Laughing) I did 18 songs in 3 months. Close to 30 (laughing).
Ed: You’ve done a very good job in writing the lyrics to your music.
Karima: Thank you so much.
Ed: What were some of the events that lead you into the direction of going solo?
Karima: It was God! He uses different people sometimes because you’ll not listen to Him. He uses other people to come and speak to you. Over the years in singing with Virtue…since I’m the lead singer, people just expected me to do a solo project…and I was like, “Y’all must be crazy! I’m not doing that. Heck no! That’s not something I want to do anytime soon.”
Up until last year, I was like, “Ok God, I keep hearing that you’ll tell me through people”…and it was in my heart because I knew…My sisters actually finished school so they had things they wanted to do other than sing. But me, I always wanted to sing. I didn’t want to do anything else. I was the kind of person that felt like…you know what…people would say in the music industry that you got to have your plan B because nothing is guaranteed in the music business. But, I think it is what you make it…and me saying I had a plan B, that just meant that I was not going to follow through on my plan A. I didn’t have a plan B so I had to stick with music. It’s not that I had to because there was nothing else I could do. I just love music. He told me if you want to do this fully then these are the things you have to do. [God] lead me straight to writing in Atlanta. (I told Him there is a lot to recording because you have to have money and if you have none left and you’re on a label…) I didn’t have either of those. It was just funny to me because I was like, “I’m not go to be able to do this,” then every step of the way I’m doing it. I didn’t pay a dime for anything!
Ed: Wow!
Stepping Into Her Destiny
Karima Kibble has earned many accolades from being lead singer for the gospel group, “Virtue”. She has received many Stellar, Grammy and Dove Award nominations, selling over 500,000 units along with her sisters Ebony and Heather. They have made a statement in the music industry by showing that female groups can have longevity and make good music without having all the drama. But this time around Karima steps out on her own with her new solo debut, “Just Karima”. This CD is very personal for Karima. The listener will be able to identify with each song as she delivers them with fiery passion from her own life experiences.
In this interview Karima talks about her decision to step out to release a solo project, the future of the group, “Virtue” and why she started her own record label. And now, it’s just, Karima!!!!!!
Ed: Hey Karima, I just love your new CD!
Karima: Thank you.
Ed: It exceeded all my expectations! When I first picked it up I said to myself, “I don’t know . . .” But when I listened to it...I was like, “Wow!” You did a very professional job from top to bottom and I have to say that you have an excellent album.
Karima: I’m glad to hear that.
Ed: What was it like stepping out from among your sisters to do a solo project?
Karima: It was scary. Just like you said, “When you picked it up you didn’t know…” That’s the reaction I thought everybody would have. But God stepped in and showed me and told me that He would have my back. God opened up every door for me and made the CD all that I dreamed it would be. It was scary and it’s still kind of weird because I have been singing with my sisters for so long that there was a comfort zone and level for me…I had to step out of that comfort level. In doing that I have grown a lot. As far as the project is concerned I was able to be an individual because in a group you aren’t able to do that. What I mean is that I don’t think there’s anything wrong with [being in a group] because you’re a group, but at the same time some people want to know you individually. I wasn’t able to do that. So, the whole project is me…it’s my life! It’s Karima as an individual…I’m being transparent to all that listen and I hope that they [the listeners] can actually feel that in listening to the music.
Ed: How did Ebony and Heather take the news of you wanting to do a solo project?
Karima: They actually were very supportive and they still are. They were blown away because they were like (I was)…I didn’t know I had writing capabilities such as those displayed on the record. They’re just excited! They listen to it as much as I listen to it, if not more. They know all of the songs and they are very supportive of me, as I expected them to be, being that they are my sisters.
Ed: Is this the first time you displayed your writing abilities on a project?
Karima: Being in the group we actually had a chance to write on one song here, one song there, but together. So, me stepping aside and actually…physically sitting down writing in a studio…it was just completely different. I didn’t think I could do it or pull it off without my sisters because I’ve been with them forever. Everything was just a faith thing. I had to step out, not be afraid and let the fear go. Once I did that…once anybody does that actually, you’ll be able to reach any goals that you have to reach. You just have to do it. Get beyond the fear. That’s what I did.
Ed: Is there a certain formula you go by when you write a song?
Karima: This time I was given tracks and actually able to pick the ones that I wanted. When I heard the music I knew what I wanted to write about. You know whether you like [a song] the first five seconds. To me when it comes on you’ll say, “Ohh, I like that.” I was able to do that. In listening to the tracks maybe a couple of times I knew what I was going to write about. So, I had the music first and then we wrote.
Ed: Did you write about 30 songs (laughing) and just picked the best 11?
Karima: (Laughing) I did 18 songs in 3 months. Close to 30 (laughing).
Ed: You’ve done a very good job in writing the lyrics to your music.
Karima: Thank you so much.
Ed: What were some of the events that lead you into the direction of going solo?
Karima: It was God! He uses different people sometimes because you’ll not listen to Him. He uses other people to come and speak to you. Over the years in singing with Virtue…since I’m the lead singer, people just expected me to do a solo project…and I was like, “Y’all must be crazy! I’m not doing that. Heck no! That’s not something I want to do anytime soon.”
Up until last year, I was like, “Ok God, I keep hearing that you’ll tell me through people”…and it was in my heart because I knew…My sisters actually finished school so they had things they wanted to do other than sing. But me, I always wanted to sing. I didn’t want to do anything else. I was the kind of person that felt like…you know what…people would say in the music industry that you got to have your plan B because nothing is guaranteed in the music business. But, I think it is what you make it…and me saying I had a plan B, that just meant that I was not going to follow through on my plan A. I didn’t have a plan B so I had to stick with music. It’s not that I had to because there was nothing else I could do. I just love music. He told me if you want to do this fully then these are the things you have to do. [God] lead me straight to writing in Atlanta. (I told Him there is a lot to recording because you have to have money and if you have none left and you’re on a label…) I didn’t have either of those. It was just funny to me because I was like, “I’m not go to be able to do this,” then every step of the way I’m doing it. I didn’t pay a dime for anything!
Ed: Wow!
Karima: Everything was given to me. So when I started receiving music and people started telling me to come to Atlanta and write, you don’t have to have a dime, I was like, “Okay, Jesus. I hear you!” God just provided everything! From there, I finished writing and I was like, “Okay. Now how am I going to get this out?” I don’t know the process in getting this out because I’ve been so used to being at a structured label that did everything for me. That’s where Page Turner comes in---we formed “Life Music Recordings”. It’s our own label. We did a joint venture with my long-time friend and attorney Darrell Thompson who heads the label. He had distribution to Universal Music Christian Group…that’s how it all came into play…it was just meant to be. I asked God to give me something that I could totally claim as my own and feel good about---God did that for me and I‘m grateful! Sometimes I wake up and I still can’t believe that I did it! That just sets the stage for everything else that I want to do. Music is my first love and I knew that I had to do this because God told me to---and I wanted to. God helped me get there and He is opening up other doors and other avenues for me to go down and go through to be successful in other areas. So, I’m just excited about what God has in-store…the sky's the limit!
Ed: That’s an awesome testimony---in that you didn’t have to pay a dime for anything in the recording of your CD!
Karima: Nothing! I paid nothing…every time I talk about it…I’m like, “Do you understand? My tracks are so good I should have paid at least $50,000 a track---at least!
Ed: Is that the going rate for recording a track?
Karima: For a really good track that you want produced to the fullest. Yeah, I would at least say $50,000 for a track. I have stuff all the way from Australia…people who are like superstars over there…they gave me their tracks for free and I’m just amazed, but I shouldn’t be because that’s how good and awesome God is! I want people to feel me, as far as being real…I’m sharing my heart. A lot of people put artists on pedestals and think that we don’t go through anything in real life…and it is so opposite…we go through so much more because we are trying to hide. I’m tired of hiding…I want to let everybody know life is a process…you start, you fail, you get back up and try again and the same thing can happen over and over again, but, you know that if you keep trying you will honesty get to where you are going. I just want them to feel my heart…[by listening] to the messages in each of the songs.
Ed: The question that everyone wants to know is: ‘is the group Virtue still together?
Ed: That’s an awesome testimony---in that you didn’t have to pay a dime for anything in the recording of your CD!
Karima: Nothing! I paid nothing…every time I talk about it…I’m like, “Do you understand? My tracks are so good I should have paid at least $50,000 a track---at least!
Ed: Is that the going rate for recording a track?
Karima: For a really good track that you want produced to the fullest. Yeah, I would at least say $50,000 for a track. I have stuff all the way from Australia…people who are like superstars over there…they gave me their tracks for free and I’m just amazed, but I shouldn’t be because that’s how good and awesome God is! I want people to feel me, as far as being real…I’m sharing my heart. A lot of people put artists on pedestals and think that we don’t go through anything in real life…and it is so opposite…we go through so much more because we are trying to hide. I’m tired of hiding…I want to let everybody know life is a process…you start, you fail, you get back up and try again and the same thing can happen over and over again, but, you know that if you keep trying you will honesty get to where you are going. I just want them to feel my heart…[by listening] to the messages in each of the songs.
Ed: The question that everyone wants to know is: ‘is the group Virtue still together?
Karima: Absolutely! Virtue is still together. We just did a concert a few weeks ago with J. Moss, which was awesome. We are still together and we plan on coming out in another (probably) year. We are just going to give “Just Karima” a chance to do what it’s going to do: bless the people. Then we are going to get right back out.
Ed: Will the new Virtue album be on your new label?
Karima: Absolutely!
Ed: In the future will there be a Virtue reunion album with members of the past?
Karima: You know what? We just talked about that because Negelle and Shavonne…all of us still talk. They both live in Atlanta and actually they came to [my] release party. Ebony and Heather weren’t able to come because they are teachers. Traveling one day and hurrying back the next day wouldn’t have gotten them back in time for work. At [my] album release party Negelle, Shavonne, and [myself] talked about doing a reunion album. But, before Shavonne and Negelle there was another girl name Tasha when we first started in Oakwood College. So, there are quite a few members and we will have a good ol’ time on stage. We had a reunion concert with everybody a couple of years ago at the college we all attended. It was awesome. We had so much fun. [Doing] a recording would be awesomely great!
Ed: One thing that I could never understand is that when good friends come together having a vision in mind to form a singing group and make it big. Then, after years of success, something happens and a member or members want to leave and break off friendships with the rest of the group. I’m so glad that it’s not the case with you and the former members of Virtue. It is a true testament of the group’s name: Virtue.
Karima: Every time someone leaves the group there’s no ill will behind it. Nobody was kicked out or told they had to leave. The world believes otherwise. They think that there’s some craziness going on, but it’s not true. I guess [they love] controversy and drama. But, we still are friends and we love each other like sisters.
Ed: How would you describe your musical style and how does it differ from that of Virtue?
Karima: You know, it is different from Virtue…a gentleman did a review of the CD and his review read, “People leave a group and they do their own thing but they usually still sound like the group. I can’t say that about Karima’s record. It sounds nothing like what Virtue would do,” and that’s good. I didn’t set out and say in my head, “I can’t sound like Virtue.” That’s impossible! I’m the lead singer and I did a lot of background as well, but God gave me a completely different style and I don’t even know what I’d call it, Ed. That’s why it’s “Just Karima” (laughing). It’s just good music, I call it ‘life music’…it’s about my life.
Ed: How did you choose the musicians/producers for your project?
Karima: When I first started I went to Atlanta…I knew Debra Killings and Rodney East from doing a tour together five or six years ago and we remained friends. Rodney plays for R. Kelly, Jamie Foxx, Yolanda, and Marvin. I didn’t know that he had the capabilities of producing and co-writing with me. I knew Debra had it in her, but Debra wouldn’t help me write anything! She said, “I’m not helping you write nothing! God told me to tell you to come on up here and you’re going to write this all by yourself!” I was like, “Nooo!” She was awesome, a great, great producer. Terrell King who did the majority of the producing (he’s in Atlanta also) I met him on myspace and I’m actually a Seventh Day Adventist like him.
I had no idea, because he’s so much younger than I am, but the boy is…he’s the one to watch! Oh my goodness, he’s amazing! I had a bunch of offers and friends that are huge in the business that I could have gone to and used, but God told me not to. He said, “Use these people right here.” I think that’s good because everybody deserves a chance. I used the people God told me to and the product speaks for itself.
Ed: What are some of your favorite songs on the CD and why?
Karima: I love, of course, the entire project. My favorite today would be (and it was yesterday too) “Closer” number three, because everybody wants to be further and closer to [achieving] their goals and reaching God. It just takes time to get there each day…you have to work towards it. That just does something to my soul. “Save Me” number eight on the CD…every time somebody tells me about a song that is their favorite I go and listen to that song over and over again. I got an e-mail on Facebook from somebody that works with my sister, if I’m not mistaken, anyhow, she was just telling me how “Save Me” really ministers to her and that she loves the entire project. [She also mentioned] that the project was right on time for her [because of] what she is going through in her life. She wishes more people would be more transparent in their music and she feels my heart. That’s what I was telling you earlier…that’s what I want people to [understand] and that made me feel good. So, it made me listen to “Save Me.” I’m desperate for Him to save me. Save me from all the things that I’m going through. The things that I think people are not satisfied with me about. When I wrote the verses…it’s almost indescribable. After reading it, I was like, “Wow! This came from me? I really feel this way? I want to be saved. Save me God please because I can’t do it on my own!” I don’t want to do it on my own. I keep trying and I keep failing. You can’t keep doing something the same way and expect change. So, save me and help me to change…you take control. That song really ministered to me as they all do (laughing). They really do. Number nine “I Wouldn’t Change A Thing”…
Ed: Yeah. Yeah. That song really draws me in. That song is hot!
Karima: Thank you.
Ed: Is the song, “Love of a Lifetime” about your husband?
Karima: I just put it on there because a lot of people asked for wedding songs. It’s what it is, a love song.
Ed: Who do you admire as vocalists?
Karima: The two people I grew up loving are Shirley Murdock and Vanessa Bell Armstrong. They are my idols, I mean seriously! I remember being little, listening to them, and of course my mom was like, “Naw! Vanessa and Shirley Murdock’s music, no ma’am!” But, I never really listened to the lyrics. You know what I mean? A lot of people don’t listen to lyrics but you probably need to (laughing) see what it is you’re internalizing. I didn’t pay attention because I was younger and I was so into her vocals [Shirley Murdock]. That lady can sing! I loved her voice and I would try to sing like her. I remember walking up and down my neighborhood being a little older, listening to some of Whitney Houston’s songs. She has such a different beautiful voice and I was like, “Ohhh!” You listen to people and you like them…but definitely Shirley Murdock and Vanessa Bell Armstrong.
Ed: Have you ever met Shirley Murdock or Vanessa Bell Armstrong?
Karima: Absolutely! I told them I have a tape of when I was eight or nine years old. I was in the bathroom taping myself, flushing the toilet…it’s all on tape…I’m singing a Vanessa Bell Armstrong song called, “I Have The Faith”. It is on cassette tape to this day. It’s so hilarious. They’re my idols and I tell them every time I see them.
Ed: Do you play any instruments?
Karima: You know, I don’t and I kick myself everyday. My mom had us all in piano, guitar, and violin lessons. We took all those lessons and said, “Whoa! This is not for us.” I say everyday, if I played the piano or guitar, I would write a song every single day for the rest of my life.
Ed: Acoustic or electric guitar?
Karima: Acoustic. I love acoustic.
Ed: How does Life Music Recordings differ from that of a major label?
Ed: Will the new Virtue album be on your new label?
Karima: Absolutely!
Ed: In the future will there be a Virtue reunion album with members of the past?
Karima: You know what? We just talked about that because Negelle and Shavonne…all of us still talk. They both live in Atlanta and actually they came to [my] release party. Ebony and Heather weren’t able to come because they are teachers. Traveling one day and hurrying back the next day wouldn’t have gotten them back in time for work. At [my] album release party Negelle, Shavonne, and [myself] talked about doing a reunion album. But, before Shavonne and Negelle there was another girl name Tasha when we first started in Oakwood College. So, there are quite a few members and we will have a good ol’ time on stage. We had a reunion concert with everybody a couple of years ago at the college we all attended. It was awesome. We had so much fun. [Doing] a recording would be awesomely great!
Ed: One thing that I could never understand is that when good friends come together having a vision in mind to form a singing group and make it big. Then, after years of success, something happens and a member or members want to leave and break off friendships with the rest of the group. I’m so glad that it’s not the case with you and the former members of Virtue. It is a true testament of the group’s name: Virtue.
Karima: Every time someone leaves the group there’s no ill will behind it. Nobody was kicked out or told they had to leave. The world believes otherwise. They think that there’s some craziness going on, but it’s not true. I guess [they love] controversy and drama. But, we still are friends and we love each other like sisters.
Ed: How would you describe your musical style and how does it differ from that of Virtue?
Karima: You know, it is different from Virtue…a gentleman did a review of the CD and his review read, “People leave a group and they do their own thing but they usually still sound like the group. I can’t say that about Karima’s record. It sounds nothing like what Virtue would do,” and that’s good. I didn’t set out and say in my head, “I can’t sound like Virtue.” That’s impossible! I’m the lead singer and I did a lot of background as well, but God gave me a completely different style and I don’t even know what I’d call it, Ed. That’s why it’s “Just Karima” (laughing). It’s just good music, I call it ‘life music’…it’s about my life.
Ed: How did you choose the musicians/producers for your project?
Karima: When I first started I went to Atlanta…I knew Debra Killings and Rodney East from doing a tour together five or six years ago and we remained friends. Rodney plays for R. Kelly, Jamie Foxx, Yolanda, and Marvin. I didn’t know that he had the capabilities of producing and co-writing with me. I knew Debra had it in her, but Debra wouldn’t help me write anything! She said, “I’m not helping you write nothing! God told me to tell you to come on up here and you’re going to write this all by yourself!” I was like, “Nooo!” She was awesome, a great, great producer. Terrell King who did the majority of the producing (he’s in Atlanta also) I met him on myspace and I’m actually a Seventh Day Adventist like him.
I had no idea, because he’s so much younger than I am, but the boy is…he’s the one to watch! Oh my goodness, he’s amazing! I had a bunch of offers and friends that are huge in the business that I could have gone to and used, but God told me not to. He said, “Use these people right here.” I think that’s good because everybody deserves a chance. I used the people God told me to and the product speaks for itself.
Ed: What are some of your favorite songs on the CD and why?
Karima: I love, of course, the entire project. My favorite today would be (and it was yesterday too) “Closer” number three, because everybody wants to be further and closer to [achieving] their goals and reaching God. It just takes time to get there each day…you have to work towards it. That just does something to my soul. “Save Me” number eight on the CD…every time somebody tells me about a song that is their favorite I go and listen to that song over and over again. I got an e-mail on Facebook from somebody that works with my sister, if I’m not mistaken, anyhow, she was just telling me how “Save Me” really ministers to her and that she loves the entire project. [She also mentioned] that the project was right on time for her [because of] what she is going through in her life. She wishes more people would be more transparent in their music and she feels my heart. That’s what I was telling you earlier…that’s what I want people to [understand] and that made me feel good. So, it made me listen to “Save Me.” I’m desperate for Him to save me. Save me from all the things that I’m going through. The things that I think people are not satisfied with me about. When I wrote the verses…it’s almost indescribable. After reading it, I was like, “Wow! This came from me? I really feel this way? I want to be saved. Save me God please because I can’t do it on my own!” I don’t want to do it on my own. I keep trying and I keep failing. You can’t keep doing something the same way and expect change. So, save me and help me to change…you take control. That song really ministered to me as they all do (laughing). They really do. Number nine “I Wouldn’t Change A Thing”…
Ed: Yeah. Yeah. That song really draws me in. That song is hot!
Karima: Thank you.
Ed: Is the song, “Love of a Lifetime” about your husband?
Karima: I just put it on there because a lot of people asked for wedding songs. It’s what it is, a love song.
Ed: Who do you admire as vocalists?
Karima: The two people I grew up loving are Shirley Murdock and Vanessa Bell Armstrong. They are my idols, I mean seriously! I remember being little, listening to them, and of course my mom was like, “Naw! Vanessa and Shirley Murdock’s music, no ma’am!” But, I never really listened to the lyrics. You know what I mean? A lot of people don’t listen to lyrics but you probably need to (laughing) see what it is you’re internalizing. I didn’t pay attention because I was younger and I was so into her vocals [Shirley Murdock]. That lady can sing! I loved her voice and I would try to sing like her. I remember walking up and down my neighborhood being a little older, listening to some of Whitney Houston’s songs. She has such a different beautiful voice and I was like, “Ohhh!” You listen to people and you like them…but definitely Shirley Murdock and Vanessa Bell Armstrong.
Ed: Have you ever met Shirley Murdock or Vanessa Bell Armstrong?
Karima: Absolutely! I told them I have a tape of when I was eight or nine years old. I was in the bathroom taping myself, flushing the toilet…it’s all on tape…I’m singing a Vanessa Bell Armstrong song called, “I Have The Faith”. It is on cassette tape to this day. It’s so hilarious. They’re my idols and I tell them every time I see them.
Ed: Do you play any instruments?
Karima: You know, I don’t and I kick myself everyday. My mom had us all in piano, guitar, and violin lessons. We took all those lessons and said, “Whoa! This is not for us.” I say everyday, if I played the piano or guitar, I would write a song every single day for the rest of my life.
Ed: Acoustic or electric guitar?
Karima: Acoustic. I love acoustic.
Ed: How does Life Music Recordings differ from that of a major label?
Karima: First of all: I’m the first and only artist. That’s different: it’s just the freedom in life, in music. A lot of people pigeon hold themselves. [In] listening to “Just Karima” I totally stepped outside of the box. I’ll be honest with you; we were having a lot of trouble with the [first] single and people wanting to know the lyrics and whom I was talking about. Of course I know what I’m talking about! It’s evident. You know whom I’m talking about when you listen to the song and the tracks. I don’t want to be bound to just having to sing in a church. I think that the word needs to be in places where people aren’t even receiving or don’t know about God. At my first show by myself I opened for Dwele at B.B. King’s. The people really enjoyed it. They didn’t expect it. They listened and they enjoyed it. That’s what I want. You have to meet the people sometimes where they are. If I have the opportunity to go out and minister in a place other than the church…put me in that place first because the [lost] need it. Life Music is about life…some people are turned off by the highly spiritual and speaking in tongues kind of stuff. I mean to each his or her own. I don’t feel one way or the other about it. If that’s what you do. But it’s not what I do. That’s the freedom in me singing and ministering on stage. That’s not to say we won’t do an artist who has a full gospel project. We are setting the stage to let you know…you’re accepted here…we know that your music is gospel (laughing) and we know that you have a good message. The gospel is good news, it does not mean you have to scream and shout (then run up and down the aisles). That’s fine too, but everybody doesn’t do that well.
Ed: More and more recording artists are now starting their own record label. Could you tell us your opinion on why this is becoming a trend in the gospel music industry?
Karima: Artists are getting smart…they know that’s the way to make money (laughing). Artists are tired of being slaves to record labels. I don’t even want to break it down, but yeah…it’s horrible…I don’t want to say that either (laughing). It’s not good. It is so much more lucrative for artists to do it themselves instead of basically selling themselves short. I don’t even want to touch on that. It’s just crazy. Artists are smart now and that’s the way it is.
Ed: Will you and your husband Joey eventually come out with a CD as a Duo?
Karima: You know what, we’ve been asked that so many times…the only time we ever really sang together was at our wedding. Joey is busy with Take 6. They stay busy working…they’re getting ready to do a Christmas taping here in Nashville and they’re in rehearsals. There’s no time---I don’t know. It’s just weird and I’m not saying that it won’t ever happen, but do I see it in the near future…probably not.
Ed: What are some of the things you do just to kick back and relax?
Karima: I love time spent with my four-year-old daughter Karly. I like cooking…its very therapeutic; I just made homemade chicken soup last night…apple pie…I love cooking. I love shopping, hanging out with my family and my really close friends. Those are all great and fun things for me.
Ed: I noticed on the inside sleeve of your CD cover that you thanked Marvin Sapp…
Karima: (Laughing.) You read everything, didn’t you?
Ed: (Laughing.) Yes I did.
Karima: That’s a surprise we are working on. I can’t tell you Ed (laughing), but you’ll know in a couple of weeks and then I’ll be able to talk about it. I love Marvin and I had to thank him.
Ed: Did you get a degree from Oakwood College?
Karima: Remember I told you that my sisters did. I stopped going into my second year. I was in communications and journalism because I liked writing then---I was the youngest one in Virtue so I stopped. I believed that it was what I would be doing full time and I never went back. Not to say that I won’t. But when you stop it’s hard to get back.
Ed: Yeah. I know all about that.
Karima: I do encourage education 100% because you do need it in this day and age, but God allowed me to hone in on my skill, to craft it. He allowed me to perfect it and put out the product.
Ed: Is there anything that might be on your heart that you want to say to our readers?
Karima: The only thing that I would say is: don’t be afraid to live your dream. You can let it all slip away but you don’t want it to slip away. I know it’s easier said than done…anything is possible with God, no matter how big or small it seems.
Ed: Well, I would like to thank you for your time. I know that I asked you a lot of questions…thanks again for your patience.
Karima: It’s okay. I enjoyed it and thank you for your time.
If you have questions or comments e-mail me at www.edzplace@live.com
Ed: More and more recording artists are now starting their own record label. Could you tell us your opinion on why this is becoming a trend in the gospel music industry?
Karima: Artists are getting smart…they know that’s the way to make money (laughing). Artists are tired of being slaves to record labels. I don’t even want to break it down, but yeah…it’s horrible…I don’t want to say that either (laughing). It’s not good. It is so much more lucrative for artists to do it themselves instead of basically selling themselves short. I don’t even want to touch on that. It’s just crazy. Artists are smart now and that’s the way it is.
Ed: Will you and your husband Joey eventually come out with a CD as a Duo?
Karima: You know what, we’ve been asked that so many times…the only time we ever really sang together was at our wedding. Joey is busy with Take 6. They stay busy working…they’re getting ready to do a Christmas taping here in Nashville and they’re in rehearsals. There’s no time---I don’t know. It’s just weird and I’m not saying that it won’t ever happen, but do I see it in the near future…probably not.
Ed: What are some of the things you do just to kick back and relax?
Karima: I love time spent with my four-year-old daughter Karly. I like cooking…its very therapeutic; I just made homemade chicken soup last night…apple pie…I love cooking. I love shopping, hanging out with my family and my really close friends. Those are all great and fun things for me.
Ed: I noticed on the inside sleeve of your CD cover that you thanked Marvin Sapp…
Karima: (Laughing.) You read everything, didn’t you?
Ed: (Laughing.) Yes I did.
Karima: That’s a surprise we are working on. I can’t tell you Ed (laughing), but you’ll know in a couple of weeks and then I’ll be able to talk about it. I love Marvin and I had to thank him.
Ed: Did you get a degree from Oakwood College?
Karima: Remember I told you that my sisters did. I stopped going into my second year. I was in communications and journalism because I liked writing then---I was the youngest one in Virtue so I stopped. I believed that it was what I would be doing full time and I never went back. Not to say that I won’t. But when you stop it’s hard to get back.
Ed: Yeah. I know all about that.
Karima: I do encourage education 100% because you do need it in this day and age, but God allowed me to hone in on my skill, to craft it. He allowed me to perfect it and put out the product.
Ed: Is there anything that might be on your heart that you want to say to our readers?
Karima: The only thing that I would say is: don’t be afraid to live your dream. You can let it all slip away but you don’t want it to slip away. I know it’s easier said than done…anything is possible with God, no matter how big or small it seems.
Ed: Well, I would like to thank you for your time. I know that I asked you a lot of questions…thanks again for your patience.
Karima: It’s okay. I enjoyed it and thank you for your time.
If you have questions or comments e-mail me at www.edzplace@live.com