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Even given her illustrious musical legacy, Kiki Sheard’s sophomore album “This is Me,” from EMI Gospel, is still impressive.
She was all but born with a mic in hand. Her mother, of course, is Karen Clark-Sheard, a founding member of gospel legends, the Clark Sisters, and her grandmother, the late Dr. Mattie Moss Clark, the prodigious arranger, songwriter, singer and teacher, is credited as one of the defining influences in all of gospel music. But even with that genetic headstart, Kierra Kiki Sheard deserves props. With the aptly titled "This Is Me," she makes it clear that she has her own musical path to follow, and it's as fresh as this morning's news. From producer Fred Jerkin's daughter Beyonce's charming intro, to the live remix of the closing title track, Kiki testifies of the God she knows, and apparently knows well. Sheard herself co-wrote many of these songs with the various producers involved on the project, and they burn a deep groove through lyrics brimming with Scriptural truths and exhortations. "This Is Me" sets a strong tone from the get-go as it moves from one tight track to another, past opener "You're the Only One" to the catchy "Yes," right up to standout track, "It Is What It Is." This smooth R&B-tinged song is straight up true, both musically and spiritually, addressing salvation, heaven and hell dead on, no apologies. It's followed beautifully by the mighty title track, which oozes with sincere humility and pure worship: With You I'm something, but without You I'm nothing. Take note of CJ Alexander's poppy bass line in "Have What You Want," leading into some serious jammin' in the up-tempo "You." Ain't no way you're gonna be able to sit through this string of beat-heavy tunes, through "You" to "Change" to the slammin' "No, Never." Her heart shines through the soft-spoken intro to "Hear This," and it only sweetens the already potent project. If you were somehow able to overlook this mad music and focus on the lyrics (I dare you!), you'd be set up with a strong life direction, for she's preachin' her way through this album, and she's right on the money. She does have the heart of a preacher, I learned in our recent interview. Paul "PDA" Allen and J Moss show up for the blistering "Scream," and it all continues to ring true. Don't fight the feelin'- as Kiki says, You were made for this moment, let that praise ring out. I don't know if it's all that genetic code or just sheer bone-tingling talent, but "This Is Me" stamps Kiki Sheard as the real deal.
The copyright of the article Kiki Shead: This Is Me in Christian Music is owned by Kevan Breitinger. Permission to republish Kiki Shead: This Is Me in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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