Biography
John P. Kee, known as the “Prince of Gospel Music”, is a pioneering figure in contemporary urban gospel music. Born in Durham, North Carolina, Kee founded the New Life Community Choir to bring a fresh sound to traditional gospel music. His unique approach blends hip-hop and funk influences with powerful vocal arrangements, creating a joyful noise that sets his music apart from other genres of praise music.
In his youth, Kee ventured to California with dreams of making it in the music industry, even earning album credits with popular R&B groups like Cameo and Soltandome. However, he returned to North Carolina after battling drug addiction and experiencing a transformative moment during a local revival meeting. Kee rededicated himself to the church and is now the pastor of the New Life Community Church in Charlotte.
Kee's powerful vocals and mastery of the piano have earned him critical acclaim in the gospel music world. He has a vocal octave range that allows him to improvise and 'scat' in a jazz-like manner, evoking emotional responses from his listeners. His reign in the 1980s broke boundaries in contemporary gospel music, paving the way for artists like Kirk Franklin to push the envelope even further in the 1990s.
Dr. John P. Kee received a doctorate in sacred music in 2009 and has been recognized with two Billboard awards for the “We Walk By Faith” LP, as well as an NAACP Image Award for Best Gospel Artist. Kee, who is the 15th of 16 children, continues the familial tradition with his wife Felice Sampson, raising nine children together. Their son recently performed as the drummer for Diddy’s “Last Train to Paris” tour.
In August 2015, Kee released his first studio album entitled Level Next with Motown Gospel, showcasing his continued innovation in the urban contemporary gospel genre. His influence on the music industry and his commitment to spreading the message of faith and redemption through music have solidified his legacy as a true gospel music legend.
