Kelly, how long have you been singing and what inspires you to sing?

I’ve been singing for about 20 years. I started singing with the McGuire Air Force Base Gospel Choir in the late 1980’s. Others have really moved me with their singing, and I in turn, desire to move others through my music ministry.

You are not only a vocalist but also a songwriter, how many songs have you written to date?

I’ve written 95 songs.

Tell me a little about the group God’s Own that recorded with you on the CD.

God’s Own, G.O., is a group of Camden City’s students of the arts. One of their parents encouraged me to “just make them my little group”, so after praying about it, I did. They’re wonderful and very talented kids. I call the group God’s Own because they belong to God. It’s not about me, them, or us. It’s about God. My daughter is in the group. She’s a vocal major at the school.

You have shared stages with the Legendary Dorothy Norwood who happens to be on this recording. How did you get Dorothy Norwood on your CD and how was it working with her?

Ms. Norwood and I have a friend in common who introduced us. I’ve learned so much just from watching her sing, tell her stories, and team up with other singers and artists. She taught me the importance of having live musicians in the recording process. She says “the musicians are the life of every session”. I’ve learned the importance of matching the right song with the right artist. I’m learning to be led by the Spirit in deciding what to do and how to do it. As I was asking the Lord about what to record next and who should sing it, Ms. Norwood came to mind. In my mind, I could hear her singing my song, “Hear My Prayer”. I felt so strongly about it that I called and asked her to record it. She agreed and was eventually able to make it to the studio to overdub the lead vocals. I had already recorded the musicians and the background vocals. I’m happy with the song, and I really appreciate her support. Her example has taught me not to try to be like anybody else but to stick with what works for me and be the best that I can be. I’ve learned that my best is enough for the Lord, and that’s what counts.

Deanna Ransom, another anointed vocalist also appeared on this project, what was your experience working with her?

Deanna Ransom is one of the most talented artists I’ve ever met. She is anointed, appointed, and “vocally double-jointed”. Her vocal ability is astounding, her preaching is ultra-powerful, and she exudes Holy Ghost electricity. After hearing her sing, I could not help but ask her to record my song, “Take the Time”. She really brought the song to life. I thank God for her being a part of the project.

Why the title “No Greater Force?”

There is absolutely “no greater force” than the love of God. I experience His love with every breath I take. I see His love in every sincere act of kindness. I hear His love in every kind word. I feel His love in every wholesome relationship. God is love. Love is the very essence of His being. “We love Him because He first loved us”. At Calvary, He told the story of His great love for us. True love is not an emotion but a high and holy principle that moves us to do the right thing at the right time for the right reason regardless of how we feel or what the situation might be. The love of God is, indeed, the greatest force.

In this industry where entertaining Christians with the music we hear on the radio, how do you define ministry and what are you hoping to accomplish with your music and ministry?

I just want to fulfill the purpose for which God created me, gifted me, and placed me in this world. He has given me musical ability, and I know it is my duty, my responsibility, to do all that I can to glorify Him with my gifts. I just want Him to have His way with me. I live to be used by God.

Of the 15 tracks on the CD, which one ministers to you most?

Different songs move me more at different times depending on what I’m going through, but if I had to pick just one, it would be “Jesus Changed It All”. That song sums up my testimony, and Gary Perkins sings it so well. I love the way he sings it.

Beside your website; where will the CD be available for purchase?

Until national distribution happens for me, it’s available in stores in the Camden/Philadelphia area, cdbaby.com, and iTunes. Amazon.com will have it soon, and other outlets will follow shortly. Visit my website at www.kellylynngospel.com frequently for updates.

Finally Kelly, please leave some words of encouragement or advice with anyone reading this interview, maybe a young person who is thinking about entering into the ministry of music, or a troubled teen who may just be feeling hopeless, helpless and rejected…any words for those individuals?

God has created you with a plan and a purpose in mind. To know the fullness of joy in this life, you must find your God-given purpose. Sincerely ask God, and He will show you the way to fulfill your destiny. Everything you need is in Him. His Word is true, and His promises are sure. He cannot fail you, and He cannot lie. You can depend on Him. Put your faith, hope, and trust in Him. He will see you through. He will give you peace.

Learn everything you can about the music business. Understand it well. Don’t try to be like anybody else, but be the best that you can be as an individual. Know that your best is good enough for God. Believe in yourself, and keep Jesus first. “Where God guides, God provides”, and “God’s will is God’s bill”. Be blessed.