FROM a respectable distance, you might be tempted to think Kerron Ennis has it all: the blazing music career, a debut album on the way, the musician boyfriend, peace of mind. The good life.

ENNIS... It is our duty as Christians to be an example to the young people. (Photos: Bryan Cummings)

But what many do not know is that the rising gospel star, now 25, had to overcome countless hurdles on her journey to success and happiness.

By her own admission, the Merle Grove High alum (who shot to fame in 2003 as a runner-up in the JCDC Gospel Song Competition) has had to learn to let go of the past to enjoy a fulfilled life. Ennis believes her past pain and struggles are just signs that it is time to embrace a new season, knowing at her very core, she cannot fail.

Sunday Entertainment recently sat down with the songbird to discuss the role of the church, her music and ministry and staying positive.

Sunday Entertainment (SE:) For gospel artistes and artistes in general it can be a struggle crafting songs to please picky listeners. What inspired you to pen such outstanding tracks as Make Me Over Again and God Is By Our Side?

Ennis: What I've realised is that when I turn to God, I get the motivation I need. Whenever the Lord inspires me, then the melody comes. Sometimes it's not always easy but you have to be in the frame of mind to receive the inspiration.

SE: I hear you're working on an album. What's the status?
Ennis: Well, the album is finished. It's called Next Level. But my management team and the producers are currently reviewing it. We want to take our time so we'll probably release it at the end of the year or early next year. It's a mixed album with many different flavours including praise and worship, r&b, soul, dancehall.

SE: Sounds exciting! Some contemporary gospel artistes, particularly the deejays, make it very public that it's a struggle to be a Christian in these trying times. What has the journey been like for you?

Ennis: It can be a struggle, especially if you're not married, but it is our duty as Christians to be an example to the young people so you have to make sure your lifestyle is up to standard. There's so much going on, so much vanity that you have to keep strong in your faith.

SE: Definitely. I understand you were hurt in a bad vehicular accident last December. What happened?

Ennis: I was on my way from Montego Bay to Kingston with my father, my road manager and our driver when upon reaching close to the Starfish Hotel we saw a car spinning out of control up ahead so we pulled over to allow it to pass but it slammed into our car, right at my window, and badly damaged our vehicle.

SE: How badly injured were you?

Ennis: My lips burst and I had to get stitches in my mouth. My feet and my arms were also bruised. The driver had to be cut from the vehicle and my road manager lost his memory for a couple days.

SE: So what was your healing process like?

Ennis: I actually had two shows to do in Japan the following Monday and God told me to go so I did. Within seven days, the stitches fell out of my mouth and my bruises dried up. And the shows in Tokyo and Osaka were very successful.

SE: Wow! So you felt no pain during your performance? Becasue I know your a high-energy dynamo on stage.

Ennis: When I went to Japan all my pain was gone and when I came back to Jamaica I never felt better. I had no pain. I was ready to go on the road again. Only a few scars remain now.

SE: You're very strong. How has the accident helped to shape your outlook on life?

Ennis: I feel grateful and even more appreciative of life. I thank God every day for saving my life. As Christians, we have to live right because life is not guaranteed.

SE: It's refreshingly amazing how grounded you are. Are you ever worried about anything in your life? Have you ever struggled with self-doubt?

Ennis: I used to worry about my vocals because I wasn't formally trained as a singer and also my image. But I've learned that once you have a personal relationship with God and he is in charge of your life, whatever he does, he does for a purpose.

SE: Do you find that the church has a hard time with the fashionable image of some of our contemporary gospel stars, including you?

Ennis: At times. But as a Christian, you should know what to wear and what not to. We should always try to listen to the Spirit.

SE: Speaking of the church, do you think there are issues being swept under the rug in the church?

Ennis: I think the church needs to educate people more, especially the young people. Too many issues are not being discussed in the church because of fear of the consequences. The children are the future and we need to be properly educated about things like sex because, the first 'school' for many of us is Sunday School.

SE: Still on the church, there has been a lot of talk about pastors and the money they make versus the economic state of their congregations. What do you make of all this?

Ennis: I think we can be very judgemental where pastors are concerned. Some are dishonest but there are others who are genuinely doing the work of God. But God says vengeance is mine and he is going to judge all of us in the end. We will have to give an account when the time comes.

SE: Now that you're about to embark on a new phase of you music and ministry, how do you make your decisions when it comes to your career?

Ennis: I have a good management team and supportive friends and family so that makes the decision-making process easier. Any idea that sounds good and appeals to me, I tend to go for it.
SE: What misconceptions do people have about you?

Ennis: I really don't know (Laughs). But what many people don't know is that I love giving motivational talks. I'm currently doing that in several schools like Norman Manley High and Tarrant High. I also do treats for the kids at the School of Hope every year and I organise an annual banquet for young people.
SE: What's the best piece of advice you've ever received that you want to share with readers?

Ennis: Whatever you're doing, keep your head up. Don't let anybody stop you. Remember that life is like a track and field race. Nobody can take your lane. Just do what you have to do.

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