Bio

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 what has 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.

 “The message is what drives this song,” explained Vasser. “No matter who you are, if you are a Christian, you have something that you are appreciative for … I am grateful for every opened door, every opportunity … even when I’ve messed up, He has proven his love over and over and has given us all a second chance.  It is one of my absolute favorite songs to sing.”

Flexing his songwriting skills, Vasser offers two emotional worship ballads, “Your Name,” and “Show Us the Way.”    Offering a personal anecdote about the latter song, he said “‘Show Us the Way’ reflects my life. I was going through a serious time in my life when I left Youth Edition … I left my comfort zone and my request to God was to show me the path because I just didn’t know what to do at that time.”  It is a simple call on God for His help – a plea for His guidance, for His word, for His direction.

All 10 tracks on SO GLAD are impressively musical and lyrical.  Leading cuts include the declarative “Highest Praise,” and contemporary “Miracles,” with an assertive message of the importance of not going to God empty handed, but with praise.  Also, paying homage to his roots, Vasser offers listeners some traditional Chicago church.  The song “Pray For Me,” is a bluesy, soulful organ-driven, testimony-telling track that relies on the gritty, syncopated rhythms and raw vocals that brings you all the way back.

When asked to describe himself, Vasser uses the word heartfelt.  “I am a heartfelt singer, you can feel all the emotions and love I have for Christ when I am singing,” he said.  “It’s soulful … it truly comes from my soul and heart … everything I have on the inside, I lay it all out when I sing.”

 “I know God has anointed me in all styles,” continued Vasser.  “I stay in a place with God where the anointing supersedes any gift or talent … I try to stay in the anointing and he has allowed me to understand who I am and what my ministry is. I thrive on the fact that I can touch on anything and to have something for the seasoned saints, the young people … for everyone.  I really think we accomplished that on this project.”

SO GLAD, appeals to the masses in a straightforward and universal way, conveying one central message of reaching the people of God right where they are, presented through Vasser’s ministry that heals, encourages and uplifts.