Kenny Lewis & One Voice’s newest highly anticipated album, Undefeated, is available now on all digital streaming platforms. The leading single, “Undefeated”, debuted at #4 on Billboard’s Digital Single Sales chart and has continued to gain popularity all over the country. In this new album, fans can look forward to eleven new songs with seven music videos to enjoy. This book of music comes from a live worship experience that includes an array of styles relatable to anyone. In this TCB Exclusive, Lewis opens up about creating an authentic new album with a wide appeal. Lewis also talks about arranging a Christmas classic for the first time and his message for new artists.
Congrats on the recent release of Undefeated! Can you share when you first had the vision for this project?
The vision for the new project started at the end of 2018. I knew that the time for recording again and putting out new music was vastly approaching, so I began to write songs. The vision for the overall project captures the artist I have become today. There are new messages that I wanted to convey on this album and believe it or not, this project freed me because I was able to authentically be myself from track 1 to track 11.
The album has been out for a little over a month. Can you share some of the listener reactions you’ve received and any impact stories that have meant something to you personally?
I am overjoyed by the responses from my supporters and peers in the gospel industry. This album was intentionally designed to reach the masses and connect with people who may have never paid attention to gospel music. I wanted all walks of life to be able to relate to my experiences through my music, but also give different styles of gospel/inspirational songs on the project. To receive messages of how people are being blessed all over the country has made it all worth it! For me, the overarching goal of the album is to bless the people of God and ultimately keep their focus on Him.
You also recently released an arrangement of “O Come All Ye Faithful.” Is there a moment during the process that stood out to you most?
I had never arranged a Christmas song before, so every element of the process stood out to me. I didn’t want to do a disservice to Christmas music, especially since the holidays looked so different given the times we’re facing. I also wanted to showcase Kenny Lewis & One Voice’s vibe and interpretation of the classic song. I absolutely loved how it came together.
How does your background help you connect to the music you write and record, which engages listeners?
My parents and grandparents are no longer alive, I’ve been divorced and as a person of faith, I’ve experienced many challenges. And yet, I’m STILL surviving through it all! I tend to write music from a place of inspiration due to my past trials and tribulations. I’m a firm believer that the listeners can genuinely understand what comes from my heart to help them feel empowered.
How would you describe your sound?
I would describe my sound as a music buffet. Musically, my goal is to never be placed inside a box, and that’s often the same sentiment fellow gospel artists feel. I didn’t want to limit my creativity to one particular sound. I believe that gospel music is the perfect genre to use all styles to create the best music.
What are some of your current musical or lyrical influences?
I am incredibly inspired by the greats such as Andre Crouch, The Hawkins, Thomas Whitfield, and Stevie Wonder. These particular artists always had something to say in their lyrical content and delivered it in a way that everyone could receive!
What is one key message or takeaway you would want to share with others that are working to put together what their music looks and sounds like?
The biggest message I can share is to be authentic and continue working on your craft daily. In this industry, you will get discouraged but never settle! Other takeaways I would add is to build your brand, learn the inner workings of the music business, and find a trustworthy mentor that will consistently pour wisdom unto you.
With 2020 coming to a close, can you share with us something you are looking forward to for 2021?
For 2021, I am honestly praying that the world would start getting back to some form of normalcy. My passion has always been traveling across the country, ministering the gospel, so I’m definitely looking forward to getting back on stages in the near future!
