(via GospelGuru)
The Gospel Guru caught up with Praise and Worship leader, William McDowell. The ‘Not Going Back’ singer has always struck me as someone who was truly sincere and humble. I was glad to find that true after speaking with him in this candid interview.
McDowell’s latest release “Arise“ has been a consumer hit since it’s release last fall. Reaching Number 1 on the Billboard’s Top Gospel Album chart upon release, it stayed there for over 4 weeks. Driving sales and radio play, is McDowell’s latest song “I Won’t Go Back.” As with his previous triumphant song ”I Give Myself Away,” this single puts forward a message of universal worship and deliverance.
Be sure to cop “Arise” is you haven’t done so already! Now sit back, relax, and get a a bit of 7up with William McDowell.
1.Describe William McDowell in three words. Husband, father, and disciple.
2.How do you remain relevant in the music industry? I don’t know if anyone can remain relevant in the music industry, because it’s not up to us. I just try to maintain my posture before God, as long as I’m pleasing to him that’s all that matters.
3.What was your inspiration for your new release “Arise?” I believe my calling is that of a messenger, and to ultimately hear what the Lord is saying to the body and to release that. My observations from traveling and observing on what would be a blessing to the body and helping people grow a deeper relationship with God.
4.What was your most memorable experience in the making of “Arise?” Rehearsal week. Oh my goodness the worship that took place during rehearsals was some of the most intense worship that I’ve ever experienced. We went places in God that we almost didn’t get to go on the night of the recording. It was absolutely incredible.
5.Was there pressure in delivering a follow up to your successful debut release? Not at all hahaha. Ultimately all worship is for God, the scripture that I hold on to is Psalms 19:14. As long as he is pleased what we do everything else doesn’t matter as much.
6.Who are some people that you look up to in the music industry? There are people that have ministerial longevity such as Alvin Slaughter and Ron Kenoly. They were doing worship when it wasn’t a genre, I have to look up to people like that.
7.Why do you feel that people are so receptive to your music and ministry? Because we create and environment on the cd where they can press play and listen and feel like they’ve had an encounter with God. But ultimately I don’t know because everything that’s happening I’m surprised by and I know its God’s favor.
7up w/ William McDowell was originally published on praisecleveland.com
