Gospel star Kevin Downswell makes an EDM bop for Christmas

Kevin Downswell is known and loved for his powerful, catchy gospel songs. This Christmas, the evangelic performer lent his voice to the KFC Christmas album - remixing the contemporary carol Mary, Did You Know into an EDM explosion. Downswell's hope is that this remix will also be enjoyed outside of the Yuletide festivities.

By his measure, an uptempo dance flavour is the answer. "That's exactly what we did - merged it with a beat that is current, and did it in such a way that even if you're listening to it during the summer, it wouldn't feel out of place," he told The Gleaner. The gospel artiste was joined by a host of other talents on the album, including Christopher Martin, Alaine, Shenseea, Tosh Alexander, Romain Virgo, Voicemail, D Major and Wayne Wonder.

Having wet his feet in this festive album, will the gospel singer produce his own Christmas project? He said, "I've always contemplated doing a Christmas album, and I have a few Christmas singles ... but everything happens in its proper time."

Speaking of 'time', many entertainers spend much of their holidays with their fans. This evangelist is no different. Since becoming a public figure, the holidays have become a 'crazy' period for Downswell. "Crazy! It's always one of the busiest times of the year, because everyone everywhere is hosting some event. I am truly thankful though ... and busy declaring that 'Jesus is good'," he said.

But there is still time for a family. "We make it happen, intentionally. You can't just hope. We make it a part of our schedule, because it's most important," he affirmed.

Realignment Tour 2019

Earlier this summer, Downswell kicked off the most ambitious project of his career - the Realignment Tour. In tandem with the release of his fourth (live) album called Realignment: The Live Encounter, Kevin Downswell Ministries hosted the tour with concerts in three locations across the island. Next year, they plan to come back bigger and better. "The planning for Realignment Tour for June 2019 is in full swing, and it promises to be mind-blowing."

Additionally, the singer has announced that new music will be ready as early as New Year's Day. "Man, 2019 will be massive. We drop my first single for the year on January 1 called Free. This song is amazing. Keep your eyes and ear open!"

Kimberley Small