Carvin Winans opens up about his latest Gospel project and collaborations with Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston

A Gospel Legacy Lives on

Carvin Winans, a member of the legendary Winans gospel family, is stepping into the spotlight with his solo album Cool Gospel, set for release on June 27. Known for his smooth vocals and heartfelt delivery, Winans brings decades of musical heritage to his new project.

The album blends classic R&B vibes with hip-hop-infused grooves and a strong spiritual core, shaped by his Detroit roots.

Family at the Heart of Cool Gospel

This album features original songs co-written by his wife, Chérie, and their children, Carvin Jr., Juan, and Laylah. It’s a true family affair, with each member contributing to the creative process behind the music.

Winans describes Cool Gospel as the most “fun” project of his career. He credits the joy of working with loved ones and the fresh perspective he gained from new production techniques.

Chart-Topping Faith: God Still Working on Me

The lead single, “God Still Working On Me,” debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Gospel Airplay chart, marking a strong start for the album. Its uplifting sound and honest lyrics quickly resonated with listeners across generations.

Winans shares the song’s core message: “I’m not where I want to be, but I’m not where I used to be.” It reflects his journey of growth and faith.

From Quartet to Solo Voice

After his brother Ronald’s passing in 2005, the iconic Winans quartet came to an end, prompting Carvin to explore a solo path. The loss was profound, but it opened a new chapter in his musical journey.

Now 67, Carvin Winans has revitalized his craft, touring, recording, and embracing fresh creative energy. His latest album stands as a testament to resilience, faith, and lifelong devotion to gospel music.

You Gotta Believe: Faith in Every Note

Winans describes “You Gotta Believe” as the central theme of Cool Gospel. The track anchors the album’s message with a powerful reminder of spiritual resilience and trust in something greater.

Quoting Scripture, he says, “If you doubt, you’re damned,” emphasizing the unshakable need for faith, especially in the face of adversity. It’s a bold declaration of conviction woven through every note of the album.

Closing Track Sing Forever: Passing the Torch

Co-written by his sons, “Sing Forever” brings the album to a close with a hopeful, heartfelt message. Its gentle melody and family collaboration make it a fitting finale to Cool Gospel.

“I want to sing as long as God keeps me,” Carvin affirms, expressing his lifelong passion for music. The song also looks ahead, imagining future generations carrying on the Winans’ legacy.

Motown Roots Fuel a Gospel Mission

Raised by David and Delores Winans, Carvin grew up surrounded by gospel harmonies and joyful family sing-alongs. Music wasn’t just a tradition; it was a way of life passed down through generations.

He recalls not realizing how unique his upbringing was until others began to comment on it. For Carvin, it was simply home, rich in love, faith, and the sound of soul-stirring praise.

Early Gospel, Lifetime Calling

Carvin recalls singing gospel from the age of four, often trading carefree childhood moments for long practice sessions with his family. It was a disciplined upbringing shaped by purpose and praise.

By the time he was 13, he returned to more typical playtime, but the pull of music had already taken hold. The call to the gospel was undeniable, and he’s never looked back since.

Backing Michael Jackson on Man in the Mirror

The Winans quartet contributed backing vocals to Michael Jackson’s 1987 hit “Man in the Mirror,” adding gospel depth to one of pop’s most moving songs. Their harmonies helped amplify the track’s emotional and spiritual message.

Carvin recalls being in the studio with producer Quincy Jones, soaking in the creative process. He admired Jackson’s energy and the tight-knit, family-like work ethic that fueled the session.

Writing Whitney Houston’s Love Is

Carvin wrote the heartfelt ballad “Love Is,” which was later recorded by Whitney Houston in 1990. Though the song remained unreleased for years, it held a special place in his catalog.

Houston once praised Carvin’s original demo, a moment he says still gives him chills. Her recognition affirmed his songwriting gift and remains one of the most memorable highlights of his career.

Respect for Houston’s Gospel Roots

Carvin feels deeply honored that Whitney’s strong faith and gospel roots influenced her interpretation of “Love Is.” Her connection to the song added a profound spiritual weight that transcended genre.

Though the track was released much later, Houston’s tender a cappella performance left a lasting impression. It reaffirmed the enduring power of gospel music, even in its quietest, most intimate forms.

Solo Work Anchored in Family Values

After the Winans quartet disbanded, Carvin redirected his energy toward preserving his family’s legacy and spiritual message through solo work. He saw it not as an end, but as a divine push toward something more personal.

He emphasizes that he “can’t sit on this gift,” believing it’s his calling to keep creating gospel music that uplifts, heals, and speaks directly to the hearts of believers.

Staying Vocal—No Age Limits

At 67, Carvin proudly shares that he’s still singing in the original keys, with his voice just as strong as it’s ever been. His vocal endurance reflects decades of discipline, passion, and unwavering purpose.

“I do them in the original keys … I’m in good voice and ready to sing,” he says with confidence. For Carvin, age is just a number; his gift remains timeless.

Touring with Detroit Gospel Legends

This October, Carvin will hit the road with the Detroit Gospel Legends, bringing timeless gospel music back to the stage. The tour promises to reconnect fans with the rich heritage of classic gospel sounds.

For Winans, it’s more than a performance; it’s both a tribute and a testimony. Each stop honors his roots, celebrates his family’s legacy, and shares his enduring faith through music.

Legacy Above All

Carvin emphasizes, “Family is everything”, a core belief passed down from his late father and nurtured by his supportive mother. That foundation has shaped both his life and his music.

In his closing track, he even declares “Winans forever,” a heartfelt nod to his musical roots and enduring pride in the legacy his family continues to build through faith and song.

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A Spiritual Comeback with Roots

With Cool Gospel, Carvin masterfully blends old-school soul with fresh, modern rhythms and timeless gospel truths. The album bridges generations, honoring tradition while embracing contemporary sound.

It’s a deeply personal, family-centered journey that looks forward with faith. For Carvin, gospel isn’t just music, it’s renewal, legacy, and hope wrapped in harmony, proving the message is as relevant now as ever.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and with human editing.