Kevin Downswell's journey: Close To You

Tuesday, May 20, 2008



Kevin
PERHAPS it is the splendour of his brand of gospel music, the crescendo of his voice or the spine-tingling, soul-stirring effect of his lyrics that makes Kevin Downswell an awesome praise and worship leader.

Downswell has already sang his way into the hearts of many and will by this week's end once again come Close To You.
Recently, the seasoned 'praiser' (he was the winner of the 2003 Jamaica Cultural Development Commission Gospel Finals), met up with TEENage to talk about his well-anticipated new album. Here goes:

TEENage: What was the inspiration behind the album title Close To You?
Kevin Downswell (KD): This album took about five years to be completed. It was not easy and as with anything done totally committed to God. There will be a lot of pressure from the enemy. So each song came out of tests, trials and just spending time in God's presence. Close To You, the title track, came forth from realising my passion to be near God. And, no matter how much I get, still I seem to want more. I just really love the Lord.

TEENage: With that said, why should we buy your CD?
KD: For those who have a desire to be closer to God, music has been a powerful and helpful medium. This album will very much inspire, strengthen, bless, save and so much more.

TEENage: What is your favourite song(s) on the album and why?
KD: I love all the songs because each one is quite dear to my heart.

TEENage: What are your goals for the next seven years?
KD: There are so many things. But my first and foremost is to be at the place where God is able to continue to do whatever He wants through me, and to be out there changing lives for God.

TEENage: What are your greatest weaknesses?
KD: I don't think I have any because in every area of my life I am sold out to God. He is my strength.

TEENage: Who are the artistes that make you stop and take notice when you listen to the radio nowadays?
KD: I love Mary Mary and Canton Jones.

TEENage: For those of us who've experienced the presentation and power of Kevin Downswell, it really is a spine-chilling awe-inspiring experience. What has been your formula for c****ining incredible lyrics and performances?
KD: The lyrics come from spending time in my Lord's presence. Just listening to Him. And when I get on any stage it really is a continuation of my whole life of trying to please and worship God.

TEENage: If you had a choice of all the gospel artistes in the world, who would you collaborate with and why?
KD: Kirk Franklin, because of our similarity to be real.

TEENage: What are your plans for the future?
KD: Launch the album the 24th of May and just run where God leads me.

TEENage: What motivates you?
KD: Seeing and hearing people testify of how the ministry has transformed their lives. There is no greater reward.

TEENage: What would you say to people who think you don't have problems or have made it?
KD: The reason why I sing these songs and minister the way I do is because I have been through much. I'll never think that I have made it until I get to heaven.

TEENage: What advice [do you have] for aspiring artistes who may be ministering in the church now, but feel called to be a professional artiste?
KD: Learn as much as you can from your ministry. Be true to God, be patient and be faithful in the little and God will make you ruler over much.

TEENage: In conclusion Kevin, with Close To You, what are both fans of Kevin Downswell's gospel and Christian music lovers going to experience this launch?
KD: All other artistes have their specific anointing and calling. So you will experience a difference at each person's launch.

TEENage: Just one more question, though. If Jesus were to comment on the life of Kevin Downswell, What would you want him to say about you?
KD: I want Him to say at the end of my journey when I stand before Him, "Well done, my child".

So you see Kevin really has a lot in store for his listeners. And with this said, look out for him this Saturday at the Eastwood Park New Testament Church.