LIKE his Biblical namesake, gospel crooner Moses is a man committed to leading people to God. And through his soul-stirring redemption songs, the from-guns-to-the-gospel testimony and his new production/artiste management company, Mo-muzik Entertainment Limited, he's already accomplishing just that.

MOSES... the Christian life is a tough journey

Less than three weeks ago, he pulled off a superb feat when he got mega-superstar Kirk Franklin and his musicians - based in different time zones in the US - to perform live at the National Stadium car park in Kingston at the gospel showcase, Exodus. And if he has his way, in 2009 the grand dame of gospel, Shirley Caesar, Grammy winner Fred Hammond and the sensational Israel Haughton & New Breed will be here.

But Moses (born Kassim Grant), 27, is committed to more than just bringing the best in international gospel here to perform. He's equally interested in fostering new talent through his artiste management company in a bid to unearth new stars. The Observer recently spoke with him about his work, his vision and why it's a lot harder out there for Christians.

Observer: You have quite an interesting story of struggle and survival that many of us have beeen fortunate to hear. Was there any negative feedback from the community of faith after you first disclosed your turbulent past?

Moses: No, my testimony always gets good feedback whenever I perform here or overseas. The church is all about testimony because they like to know that you've come a far way in serving God. So when they hear where you're coming from, they feel inspired and encouraged.

Observer: So no backlash about you putting too much out there?

Moses: Nothing like that. In fact, other people have been encouraged to share their testimonies after hearing mine. God has truly taken me from a life of crime and badness to higher levels. It's a good thing and I'll always have a testimony to share.

Observer: I like that you make your struggles known. You really let people know that it's not easy out there, even as a Christian.

Moses: It's definitely a struggle because you have to understand that the Christian life is a tough journey. You will come upon a lot of potholes and other obstacles but you just have to stay focussed on your objective to reach the end of that tunnel. At times, it's a lot harder out there for Christians.

Observer: Speaking of Christianity, are you satisfied with the state of the church in Jamaica or is it in need of a makeover?

Moses: I am not seeing that passion that the church should have in these times. A lot more needs to be done. We, as the church, have a mission, so we need to show that. There are so many issues to be addressed. We need to pour more into the kingdom.

Observer: Should a preacher's congregation have the same amount of wealth he does?

Moses: A lot of people out there don't believe a pastor should have money while some believe pastors are getting rich off the church. But I know of many congregations where people are far wealthier than the preacher. But while I don't believe the servant of God should be begging bread, I believe all this talk going on about pastors and money is a distraction from the word.

Observer: What are you currently working on musically?

Moses: My new album is almost complete and will be released in October. My first album, Testify did really well so people are looking out for this one. My company was recently registered so we are hard at work trying to recruit new talent.

Observer: What's your vision for the next phase of your life and career?

Moses: My vision is to see my career and Exodus grow from strength to strength. I'm still learning as I go along. So I just look forward to bigger and better things.

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