Title: I Made It Out
Artist: John P. Kee
Label: eOne
Formats: CD, Digital
Release date: September 13, 2019
Pastor John P. Kee releases yet another spirit filled, “fire baptized,” sanctified and funk-tified album. I Made It Out, Kee’s debut on the eOne Music label, is actually his 26th album release. Building upon the legacy of Kee’s rich musical career that began with his 1987 debut, Yes Lord, his new project features popular gospel artists such as Zachardi Cortez on the hit single “I Made It Out” and Micah Stampley on “Created to Worship.” The album also features the Instagram singing sensations and industry up and comers, Samoht and Ashley Jayy.
Born in Durham, North Carolina, John P. Kee was the 15th of 16 children in a family full of music and church. From a young age, John showed musical talent. He began playing the piano when he was eight and, inspired by the music he heard in church, also began writing songs. After attending the North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston-Salem, he and his two brothers, Wayne and Al, moved to California where they attended the Yuba College Conservatory School of Music in Marysville. Kee also began performing with groups such as Cameo and Donald Byrd. While his career was making great strides in California, regrettably it did not prevent Kee from experiencing difficulties resulting from the pressures of inner city life. After witnessing his friend’s murder, Kee decided to turn his life around. The title of his new album reflects this period in his life when he “made it out” and chose a different path, dedicating himself to God and ministry. Kee formed the New Life Community Choir in the late 1980’s and still performs and records music with them today. In 1995, Kee also built his own church, New Life Worship Center, where he has been the senior pastor for the past three decades.
For John P. Kee fans, I Made It Out will take you back to his signature gospel sound as heard on albums such as Strength and Not Guilty, combining modern production sounds and quality songwriting with the assistance of his dynamic band, vocalists and tech engineers. For new listeners, you are in for a treat as you experience the popular sound of John P. Kee’s brand of gospel music full of Roland synthesizers, dynamic vocalists, incredible horn lines and an all-encompassing spirit filled worship experience.
Reviewed by Bobby E. Davis, Jr.