Platoon is spotlighting UK Gospel Music throughout September with a whole series of exciting performances, releases and activities. Starting with two Gospel classics ‘Great is Your Mercy’ by Donnie Mclurkin and ‘Nobody Greater’ by Vashawn Mitchell being given a fresh new flavour, the songs are live recorded as duets, featuring collaborations by Platoon’s own contemporary Gospel artists: Asha Elia, Folabi Nuel, Ryan Hylton and Sharyn.
Each artist will also subsequently be releasing new original material for the UK Gospel Celebration project. Releasing as singles, the live recordings will be on streaming platforms and feature on a special Platoon playlist “A UK Gospel Celebration”. Your support is invaluable to continue championing UK Gospel music, whilst also acknowledging the powerful impact that it’s having on the global music scene.
In addition to bringing out new music, Platoon have stepped it up a notch this year by collaborating with TBN UK for a 1-hour TV special “A UK Gospel Celebration”, featuring candid roundtable conversations with some of UK’s leading Gospel artists and live music performances from Platoon artists. The best creative talent & inspiration historically originates from within the Gospel music scene, and the UK is no exception!
A listening party at Platoon 7 Studios on 31st August marked the start of this series of Gospel music activities planned in collaboration with leading Gospel artists and platforms to introduce the genre’s wealth of current talent and rich heritage to new audiences.
The now available duets showcase the amazing giftings of the artists, ahead of their original solo offerings and TBN TV Special scheduled for 8th September release.
Folabi Nuel + Sharyn – ‘Great Is Your Mercy’ (Donnie McClurkin)
Known for her versatile vocals SHARYN effortlessly crosses genres from afrobeats to soul and pop. Nominated as Newcomer of the Year by Premier Gospel Awards after releasing just two singles, Sharyn went on to win Best Female Vocalist for her debut album “In Full Bloom” which has featured on BBC1 Radio and editorial playlists on Apple Music and Spotify.
“As a kid growing up in south London, Donnie McClurkin’s “Live in London” album would always be on repeat. It is such an honour to sing a rendition of one of my favourite gospel tracks of all time. Working with Folabi was a dream as we both love the track. His sound is so distinctive whatever the genre or style of song you know it’s him. ” – Sharyn.
FOLABI NUEL is a dynamic singer-songwriter and recording artist with global presence emerging from Nigeria. Folabi has numerous collaborations with high-profile artists like Johnny Drille, Timi Dakolo and Nosa. This multi-talented artist was also a composer for Nollywood films such as Ije and The Wives. Folabi is working on a new EP and his first UK headline concert in 2024.
“It’s always a joy to sing a classic song such as ‘Great Is Your Mercy’. I grew up listening to Donnie Mclurkin. It was also exciting to work with Sharyn, she has such a beautiful voice and a great personality.” – Folabi.
Asha Elia + Ryan Hylton – ‘Nobody Greater’ (VaShawn Mitchell)
With her dewy, contemporary vibe, ASHA ELIA stands out as one of the most exciting new artists to emerge from the UK Gospel scene. A MOBO Award nominee in 2022 and winner of Female Artist of the Year at StepFWD Awards two years in a row, Asha has collaborated with artists such as Jonathan Ogden, Marizu and Limoblaze. She is now working on her much anticipated debut album planned for release in spring 2024.
“As much as Christian music keeps growing & expanding, it’s so important to keep honouring our roots. I’m so grateful to get to sing ‘Nobody Greater’ by VaShawn Mitchell. It’s a classic within Gospel and was one of the first songs I was introduced to when I got saved.” – Asha.
Singer-songwriter RYAN HYLTON rapidly established himself as a ground-breaking new artist with his debut EP “Journey” in May 2020. Gaining immediate popularity with his uplifting melodies and inspiring lyrics, he dropped his debut album “Legacy” just months later. Expect to hear much more from Ryan with a Christmas single, various collaborations and new EP/album planned for early next year.
“Working with Asha was an exciting and peaceful experience. Her personality brings calmness and serenity. I’ve known Asha for a few years now and now sharing the stage with her for Gospel Heritage Month is truly an honour.” – Ryan.
