We had the good fortune of connecting with Minister Blessed and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Minister, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I started doing music as a hobby in my early teenage years performing cover songs at local churches, schools and concerts. As time progressed and my relationship with God grew deeper, I began writing, performing and recording my own original songs, realizing that my talents were a powerful tool for ministry.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I began performing as a solo artiste in 2002 before going on to release my first single in 2005. Since then I’ve released 4 studio albums and 1 EP. My music is predominantly dancehall gospel but as someone who loves variety I have dabbled in other subgenres of gospel including reggae, hip hop, edm, mento, afrobeat, soca, contemporary worship etc. Along the musical journey there have been many challenges and roadblocks but my passion, faith and continued inspiration from God keeps me going. One thing I have learnt is that it is not enough to simply make good music. In my early years I would simply release a song and see what happens but to make a true impact requires relationship building, consistency, promotions and so much more. From the music I now release, I want listeners to know and appreciate the sovereignty of God and also to encourage them to rely on Him to carry them through the bleakiest of storms – for He is working it out for their good (Romans 8:28).
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d take them to The Trafford Centre which is a huge mall with shops, restaurants, attractions, movie theatre, game arcade etc. We’d possibly need to go there twice to make the most of it. A tour of the Old Trafford Stadium and Museum would also be on the books as well as watching a LIVE football match if possible (things I am yet to do myself being fairly new to the area). Itenarary to also include a hike/nature walk, attending church service and having a social link up meeting other friends via a pot luck or games night.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to shout out my dad, mom, sis and wife who have been my day to day support system as my immediate family. Faithfuls Rocky, Melissa, Deidre, Sherene and The Green’s family who have helped execute several of my events. Fellow artistes Ryan Mark, Sean Lypher and DJ Nicholas who have given me practical support and advice. My merch partners Purely By Faith who helped me launch my first tshirt and hoodie line ‘bounce back’ which has been a great success. Shout out to every person who has supported my ministry via producing my music, playing my music, purchasing merch or attending my events.
Website: http://ministerblessed.strikingly.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ministerblessed
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/minister-blessed-52405a13b/
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ministerblessed
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ministerblessed
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/ministerblessed
Other: https://spurropen.com/eplaunch