Kevin Vasser is the new name and face in Gospel music but his voice holds a remarkably familiar dynamism that refreshes our memories of what a great Gospel voice should sound like. Today, he introduces himself to the music world with his debut release, SO GLAD, a plentiful and rich live recording filled with every style of music for every body. And … in the tradition of the great vocalists, Kevin Vasser embodies the intrinsic essence of Gospel music.
Often the things that have palpable emotion are things that are tied to a personal situation or story. As is the case with SO GLAD, a work that is driven by Vasser’s personal testimony -- a testimony full of God’s faithfulness, promise and healing. This bona fide ‘church guy’ shares his journey – musically - from former leader of Chicago-based gospel group Youth Edition, to preacher to solo artist.
“I feel as though all I’ve been through whathas been a tremendous preparation for me,” Vasser said. “My father put me in Youth Edition and he prepared me for ministry … he always taught me to not be an entertainer but a minister of the Gospel. I am really trying to make sure that through my music and ministry, people are touched to go in the right direction.”
Vasser came to understand and embrace the role of ‘lead singer’ during his time with Youth Edition, which consisted of his brother and two cousins. Vasser literally became a student and fan of some of gospel music’s dynamic male vocalists, such as Joe Ligon, Marvin Winans, and Melvin Williams. All along the way… picking up the style and leadership of a progressive solo artist which now translates into a powerful and compelling first release.
SO GLAD was recorded live at Vasser’s home church, Fellowship Baptist Church in Chicago, IL, where the pastor is Pastor Charles Jenkins and Vasser serves as the Director of Worship & Arts. The recording is a true testament of faith for Vasser, who recorded the entire project on his own before signing his current deal with EMI Gospel.
“The whole evening was about me stepping out on faith …,’ Vasser said. “Not only was it my first live recording as a solo artist … but in the time before the recording I had gotten sick … I suffer from renal failure and was on dialysis. I had an infection from the catheter that spread all the way to my heart. It was during that time – the worst season of my life – that God spoke to me. He told me I was going to move away from the group and it was time for me to do a live recording on my own. He was shifting my life and ministry in another direction.”
Talking about the live recording, Vasser recollects the night clearly. “It was actually Chicago’s first major snowstorm of the season and I really felt like the weather was going to affect everything … but the Lord really moved that night and we ended up getting an excellent crowd. I was overwhelmed by the flow of the evening … I feel like we genuinely captured a true live worship experience.”
SO GLAD opens up with the groovy beat-driven “One Touch.” Vasser immediately shows listeners what he is made of – soul, passion, anointing and a God-given gift to reach the hearts and minds of all people through music. Written by Demond Johnson, director of Chicago’s own New Direction choir and Phillip Feaster the Music Director for both New Direction and Kevin, the high-energy song brings forth even a stronger message. “I love this cut for the energy the band brings and for the strong message … once you touch Jesus and can get in His presence it does not take long to get what you need,” Vasser recalled.
The title cut, “So Glad,” is bursting with genuine conviction and gratefulness. This rousing cut is a perfect first single for the album. The tried and true contemporary tune speaks to all of us who has received a second chance and showcases Vasser’s inspired vocals and superb production.
