KINGSTON, Jamaica — Glory Music, in partnership with its United States (US) distributors VP Records/VPal Music, released three albums on major streaming platforms worldwide on February 28.

The bold move included Dr Carlene Davis’ latest album, Songs of Zion, Pastor Sara Cowan’s Now (The Spoken Word), and Verlando Small’s Reggae Sax (Gospel Edition).

Producer Tommy Cowan said that the three albums released at once will be part of the offerings of Glory Music’s tour for later in the year, for which he is inviting organisations across Jamaica and the diaspora to apply to become a part of the “Songs of Zion” tour.

“We are here to restore the principles of the Kingdom in our daily lives, demonstrating the standards that God has set for us. By living out an abundant, Kingdom-centred life on earth, we reflect God’s mercy, grace, truth and love, showcasing His faithfulness as the Lord of all,” he told Observer Online.

Meanwhile, Davis, whose album sees a blend of gospel and roots reggae nyabinghi, explained that the body of work draws inspiration from Jamaica.

“Right after COVID, we’ve witnessed a decline in church attendance and an increase in violence within schools and families. My hope for this project is to break through the negative barriers of division that the enemy has set up during these trying times. I want the music to help people reconnect with their faith in Christ Jesus, using our culture as a bridge. Through this, they can rediscover their identity in the God we serve and understand that Zion — the heavenly city — and the Kingdom of God are real right where we are. James 4:8 puts it simple, ‘Draw near to God, He will draw near to you,” she said.

Davis has recorded over 23 albums, with this being her 13th release in her gospel catalogue. With a rich repertoire, she has one of the most significant catalogues by a female Jamaican recording artiste.

The singer, who was bestowed with the Order of Distinction for her contribution to music and community development, received her Masters of Religious Arts in Pastoral Counselling and her Doctorate of Philosophy in Christian Pastoral Counselling from Trinity Theological Seminary of South Florida.

Her tours have taken her across the Caribbean, US, United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, Singapore, and numerous visits to Africa, Mexico, Colombia, and Costa Rica, spreading her message worldwide.

Pastor Sara Cowan had a similar vision of sharing upliftment with her body of work.

“I had an idea and knew that, because I actually don’t sing, the general idea would be shock and awe. I was shocked at my own audacity and even more so when my dad and bonus mom jumped in and said yes. That’s when it was scary because now it was real, and I’m not sure if you’ve ever believed in yourself and then met someone who believed even more in you? That’s what happened. So I had to borrow their faith, and though it was scary, it also gave me purpose and possibility. This album was a message from my dad and my family to me right after my divorce. Don’t dwell in the past when now is available,” she shared.

Pastor Cowan is a global speaker who has addressed audiences across Europe, Africa, and North and South America, impacting millions of lives worldwide.

Her project, which is the first Jamaican evangelist spoken word album, features 12 tracks including titles like Praise Him Now, Win Now, Know God Now and Build Now.

Saxophonist Verlando Small was the first and only instrumentalist to win the Digicel Rising Star competition in 2013. Since then, he has maintained a busy schedule as a member of the praise and worship team at Church On The Rock in Kingston, performing at corporate events, touring, backing both local and international artistes, and doing studio recordings.

“It’s very important to record as a musician because that’s how you leave a legacy for generations to come. It’s knowing that you’ve contributed to shaping the music they will be listening to,” he explained.

This 12-track album showcases well-known Gospel songs in reggae style, featuring high-profile musicians, arrangers, and singers, with a special inclusion of Caribbean classics like This Island Needs Jess.

— Kediesha Perry