So, I was able to catch up with Deon Kipping this week while he’s overseas in Prague, teaching songs and music to the Maranatha Gospel Choir there. You know, the usual… NOT!
In case it isn’t abundantly clear, Deon Kipping is not your typical gospel artist. He’s been working at this for a while, achieving his greatest success (to date) as a hit songwriter for folks like Marvin Sapp (“Praise Him In Advance”), JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise (“Incredible God”) and many others.
But with the release of his new album, I Just Want To Hear You, it’s clear that Deon Kipping’s musical journey is just getting started. In this quick chat, we talk about Deon’s new album, his new label deal and the journey to get here.
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EJ: It seems like it’s been a long time coming for the release of your new album, I Just Want To Hear You. What has the journey been like for you?
Deon: This journey has had a lot of highs and lows, and I have learned a lot from each lesson and test. Character has been built because of all that I had to go through to get this album done. But, overall I wouldn’t trade it for the world. While I was on the road with Kirk Franklin during the Fearless Tour, he conducted a bible study when we were in Pittsburgh, and he told us to embrace every aspect of our journey. That’s what I am doing. I am embracing it and I am excited to keep going.
EJ: What sound and style can listeners expect from your new album?
Deon: I would say it has a more polished sound than anything I have released in the past. This album has something for everyone on it– good music, good vocals, and good lyrical content. I really wanted to include songs that people will sing for years… timeless music… life-changing music.
EJ: You’re one of Verity’s more recent signees – how does it feel to be on a major gospel label now?
Deon: It feels great! I am grateful for Stanley Brown, my manager, Gerald Isaac, and Jazzy Jordan for making it happen. To be on a label that so many greats call or have called “home,” makes me feel honored to be a part of the Verity legacy.
EJ: How have you handled being so beloved and successful behind the scenes, with your hit songwriting, knowing that you had more in you all this time? Was it easy to have patience?
Deon: Honestly, I wasn’t going after the artist title. I was very happy just writing and producing, so it was moreso about timing than patience. Writing songs built a fan base and a platform for people to see and hear my heart as an artist. Although I don’t understand God’s plan, I trust and believe He knows exactly what He is doing.
EJ: What are three words that describe your music and your passion for ministry?
Deon: “Heartfelt , life-changing and honest” describe the music. And in regards to my passion for ministry, I go hard for this because of faith, non-believers and GOD.
article courtesy of GospelPundit.com
