GOSPELflava.com BLOG

Casey J Live Recording

Date: January 30, 2015

Location: Fresh Start Church- Duluth, GA

Label: Marquis Boone Enterprises/ Tyscot Records

Refreshing, Passionate, Energetic, and Anointed are just a few of the words to describe the atmosphere at Fresh Start Church on Friday January 30, 2015. Hundreds lined up outside the sanctuary in expectation for the move of God that was about to take place. Worshippers were greeted by smiling faces as they were ushered into the sanctuary. VIP’s were welcomed with excellence as their names were written on cards in their seats and offered water so their worship experience would be comfortable. Gospel’s elite leaders such as Micah Stampley, Jason Nelson, and VaShawn Mitchell filled the church along with music industry personalities and figures. The sanctuary was decorated with warm colors, trees, and candlelight to create a warm, inviting, and intimate setting. Casey’s personality shined through the building even before she hit the stage. Prior to the recording, guests watched a video where she took the time to thank her entire team for their hard work and labor.

For her debut project Casey assembled and all-star team of musicians, producers, and vocalist. At the helm of the project is Rick Watford (Andrae Crouch, CeCe Winans, Jason Nelson) serving as Musical Director with musicians Natalie Ragins, and Jesse Bond to name a few. Serving as vocal producer is Rachel James of Bridge, Hooks, and Stuff Entertainment (Darwin Hobbs, Ted Winn, Micah Stampley).

For those that don’t know, Casey J. Hobbs is quickly becoming a well-known name in Gospel music. Her breakout single, “Fill Me Up” has reached the top of the Billboard charts and receiving major radio airplay. Worship leaders all over the country have added the song to their praise and worship rotation.

When you meet this spunky educator now artist leader her inviting personality captivates you. Her sincerity and pure heart bleeds through her crystal clear vocals as the lyrics and melodies flow from her spirit. Her energy is infectious and fans will be delighted when they hear the new music she presents. If you ask Casey about her creativity she will tell you that she is a self proclaimed “ Flower Child” and attributes her creativity to her father who died when she was only 5 years old. Casey is no stranger to music. At the age of 12 she joined the Atlanta Young Singers of Callanwolde and sang with them until she went to college at The University of Georgia.

Worshippers will experience original songs written by Casey such as “The Truth”, “I’m yours”, “Journal” and “Better”. Before each song Casey eloquently explained the meaning behind each song and was very transparent with the audience. She explained that even though she’s a worship leader with a single that’s reached the top of the charts she’s still growing and learning as a worshipper and woman of GOD.

There were several special moments throughout the recording. One tender moment was when Casey’s grandmother joined her to sing the Johnson Oatman Jr. classic hymn “ No Not One”. Casey explained how important it was for her grandmother to join her on this song and how hymns are the foundation of today’s church. In the midst of singing the song, the power of GOD fell in the room and Casey’s grandmother began to pray over her granddaughter and impart wisdom as she takes this next step in her career and ministry. Many found themselves wiping tears from their eyes as they witnessed this young ladies elevation.

In the midst of celebrating the #1 album in the country, Jason Nelson was front and center to celebrate his mentee recording her first album. Casey shared the story of how in prayer one day she began to discover that she was an “orphan”. She had no one to guide her as a worship leader and recording artist. While ministering out of town on the same engagement with Nelson, the two met and he began to impart into her and explained he was called to her ministry. Jason then joined Casey on stage for a song entitled “Have Your Way”. Jason’s smooth and signature vocals flowed wonderfully with Casey’s tone.

Of course the night wouldn’t have been complete without Casey recording her hit “Fill Me Up” written by William Reagan. She explains the song is “ flashback of the true worship experience I remember having during church in my grandmother’s basement”. She explains, ‘the sound isn’t a traditional church sound- it’s worship in its purest form.” Casey says that Israel Houghton has been one of her biggest influences because his music is for everyone and has transcended barriers in Gospel and Christian Music.

Casey’s album entitled “The Truth” is slated to hit stores and digital outlets on April 21, 2015. Her single “Fill Me Up” is currently #1 on Billboard.

Album Producers:

Chris Carter and Korey Bowie