Carvin Winans on Redefining Gospel Music
After a six‐year hiatus since his debut solo project, Carvin Winans is back with his sophomore album, Cool Gospel, marking a significant moment in his career and earning him his first No. 1 on the Gospel Airplay chart with the lead single “God Still Working on Me.” Carvin emphasizes that his music is meant to share the good news of God’s work with everyone, transcending traditional genre boundaries.
A Personal Journey and a Family Legacy
Deeply rooted in the rich tradition of the Winans family, Carvin’s musical path has always been intertwined with gospel and R&B. From co-founding The Winans—a group that earned multiple Grammy Awards and even lent backing vocals on Michael Jackson’s hit “Man in the Mirror”—to penning songs for renowned artists, his journey reflects both legacy and evolution. Despite moments of personal struggle, including a period of hesitation after losing a close family member, Carvin felt compelled by his calling to continue sharing his gift.
The Making of Cool Gospel
With an 11-track album produced in collaboration with top songwriting and production talents such as Sean Garrett, Carlos Battey, and Gregg Pagani, Cool Gospel combines energetic up-tempo tracks, smooth mid-tempo numbers, and heartfelt ballads. Carvin’s soulful falsetto shines throughout songs like “Shining Star,” the empowering “You Gotta Believe,” and the atmospheric “He Who Know God.” Family also played an essential role in this project, with songwriting contributions from his wife Chérie, daughter Laylah, and sons Carvin Jr. and Juan.
Defining “Cool Gospel”
When asked about the idea of Cool Gospel, Carvin explains that the album breaks free from traditional gospel sounds. “It’s not your typical gospel record,” he notes. “In the past, our group’s contemporary beats didn’t always sit well with churches, even though the lyrics were solid. I love a good rhythm and beat, and this album brings that modern edge while carrying a message of hope. It’s crafted to resonate with a younger audience and to show that gospel music can be both uplifting and rhythmically engaging.”
Inspirational or Gospel?
Carvin is quick to point out that dividing music into boxes like “inspirational” versus “gospel” limits its reach. To him, gospel simply means “good news.” He believes that his song “God Still Working on Me” is intended for everyone—not just for those who identify as Christian. “God is working on all of us,” he affirms. “There’s always more to do, and the music is meant to reflect that ongoing journey of growth and hope.”
Evolution as an Artist
Reflecting on his artistic evolution since his first solo album, Carvin admits that working as an individual required a new level of vulnerability and self-expression. Previously, being part of a group meant balancing everyone’s input. With his new project, collaborations with producer Sean Garrett encouraged him to focus on what he truly wanted to say, resulting in a sound that feels more personal and authentic.
Memorable Moments in His Career
Carvin fondly recalls his time working with Michael Jackson as one of the highlights of his career. Sharing an anecdote about the experience, he remembers how Michael’s soft-spoken nature was initially a barrier until a humorous moment with his bandmates eased the tension. These memories underscore the unique moments that have shaped his artistic life.
A Lasting Legacy
The album closes with “Sing Forever,” a tribute to the enduring Winans family legacy. Carvin reflects on growing up surrounded by music and the realization later in life that their talent was a divine calling meant to make a difference. “It’s not just about the sound,” he explains. “It’s about using the music we’ve been given to lift people up and inspire change.”
With Cool Gospel, Carvin Winans is not only broadening the appeal of gospel music but also illustrating that the spirit of hope and redemption can thrive across all musical genres.
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