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Gospel legend Karen Clark Sheard is setting out to prove that nothing about her has changed over the years. She’s still the same ol’ Karen and she plans to sing her heart out on her upcoming album “Still Karen.”
Clark Sheard won’t stray from what her audience has come to know and love from her. She’s widely regarded as a trailblazer in contemporary gospel music. The Grammy-winner is best known for her work as a member of The Clark Sisters and is credited for bringing Christian music to the mainstream.
“Still Karen” will be a blend of two of her most iconic albums—“Finally Karen” and “Second Chance.” Fans can expect a bevy of offerings including worship songs, urban contemporary music, power ballads all supported by her vocal stylings.
“I wanted to create something that the fans would really enjoy,” her son and “Still Karen” Co-Executive Producer J Drew Sheard II said in a press release. “This is by far one of the most versatile albums she’s ever had. It encompasses urban sounds, CCM (Contemporary Christian Music), trap, ballads, worship, gospel funk and more! It really is unlike any body of work you’ve ever heard before.”
Clark Sheard is calling on some music industry heavy hitters to bring her vision to life. Another one of the album’s executive producers is 13-time Grammy Award-winner Pharrell Williams. Donald Lawrence will provide A&R consulting for the project. She’s also collaborating with J Moss, Anthony Brown, Anita Wilson, Charles Jenkins and her daughter, Kierra Sheard-Kelly.
“I brought together many of the greats that I’ve looked up to and have been so instrumental in KCS’s career,” J Drew said. “I can’t wait for the listener to feel enriched both musically and spiritually while enjoying both good music and the love of Jesus Christ.”
Karen Clark Sheard premiered the album during the 2024 Stellar Awards where she and J Drew sat with Hollywood Confidential’s Steve founder and host, Steve Jones, sharing bits of each track for preview. We’ll tell you right now: It’s everything you didn’t even know you needed. Ledisi, who made a surprise appearance that brought tears to the legend’s eyes, co-signed.
“Still Karen” is available for pre-order right now; it will be released to the public on August 23. Stellar Awards viewers will also get a sneak peak into the powerful body of work, as she returned to the stage to perform a song with Kierra.
Before you hit next, check out our interview with Karen Clark Sheard above where she discusses her unforgettable legacy and powerful come back!
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