Very few times does an artist come along that can send chills down your spine one moment and have you weeping the next. We are fortunate enough to have an artist that does just that. David Phelps is one of the most powerful vocalists of all times with a heart bigger than his voice, David deeply believes everything he sings. Whether performing as the tenor for the Gaither Vocal Band or holding his own on stage during his solo dates, David continues to wow audiences of all ages with his unique and awe inspiring voice as well as his ability to truly deliver each and every song he performs. David's ability to make the listener feel the song more than just hear it comes from years of practice and true dedication to his craft. God has truly granted Phelps with what is not only a unique and wonderous voice but a passion for what he does.
Sitting down to talk to David in a one on one session was a great blessing and very eye opening. David allowed me to see his heart, his passion and his unbridled ability to capture an audience. I want to take this time to share with you, the readers, just what David shared with me. So, sit back and enjoy getting to know David Phelps the man of God with a heart that far exceeds his voice.
Scott: “Tell me about David the man. How do you see God molding you as an artist on a daily basis?”
David: “God has really been dealing with me lately on making the gospel tangible. How do we make it practical to people today. I see so many hurting people mislead. We don't need any more phonies. People are searching for love and acceptance today. Christianity has been given such a bad rap and we've brought a lot of it on ourselves. It's time that we stop fighting each other as Christians and put aside our differences in theologies and things that are so trivial to someone who is hurting. We need to remember that we're all in this together. It's all about God's love! There's a line in the song “Break Free” on my new album that sums it up so clearly. “Forget everything you've heard about Jesus if it doesn't end and begin with love.” That's the bottom line. That's where I see God directing me more and more. I want to be real and make Christ tangible.”
Scott: “Ok, this has been the discussion of many people. What brought on the sudden image change?”
David: “Man, I'm just myself. This is how I actually came into the Vocal Band dressing. Bill and Gloria came to me one day and said I might want to consider wearing some suits because basically I was too big to look good dressing this way back then. We would be setting up or on the bus watching some of the older videos and I would cringe. I'll joke around with the guys and say, “Here we go, count down to fat David.” I really just got tired of seeing myself like that. I didn't want to look that way anymore.”
Scott: How important was your training and your practice schedules to your success today?”
David: “I was very hesitant about telling people about my degree in vocal performance from Baylor because I didn't want to come across as a know it all or sound arrogant in any way. I remember when I would try to sing as a kid and my mom would tell me I was trying to sing way to high. She told me that if I really wanted to sing I needed to get lessons. The next week I was taking vocal lessons. I would ride my bike over after school. It is definitely what has brought me here today. That and experience. I would sing anywhere and everywhere I was given a chance. People ask me how to get started all the time and I tell them first thing you better do is make sure you are in love with it. You have to be sold out and 110% dedicated. I like to use the example from the Bible about the rich man that was told to sell everything. You have to be that dedicated.
Scott: “You have had so many accomplishments already. You have a Dove nomination for male vocalist of the year, you won the SoGospelNews male vocalist of the year, you sing with the biggest group and name in SG, you've sang on Broadway, very successful solo career, you've gotten to sing with some of the best voices in music. I mean the list goes on and on. What's next?”
David: “I'm such a dreamer. I'm always day dreaming. I want to be a better songwriter. I want to learn to communicate better. Most of all, I want more revelation. The emails I get really keep me going. I just want to encourage and help at least for a moment during someone's struggles. I never want to be satisfied. I'm willing to go as far as God wants, not a step too far nor a step too short.
Scott: “There have been a lot of comparisons made between you and other great vocalists, Pavarotti, Josh Groban. Who does David consider the best vocalist ever?”
David: “Wow, that's a hard one. I love a voice that is both powerful and vulnerable at the same time. I'm a big fan of Celine Dion. I just love that voice. There is so much power there yet it is so fragile at the same time. I love Whitney Houston's older stuff. I really love how Pavarotti lets his soul come out when he sings. There may be others more technically sound, but for me, he is it.
Scott: “Ok, I'm going to ask it. The seeming trend for the Vocal Band is to record a solo project and then leave the group. Let's set the record straight. Are you going anywhere?
David: “I'm not going anywhere. Bill has been very open handed with me. Singing with the Vocal Band is a dream come true. The first three years were very hard. I didn't feel the people got to see “all” of me. I didn't feel like I was getting to express myself. After my first solo project, Bill came to me and said, “Let's do both”. So, Bill has been very fair and open handed in letting me express my heart. I love what I do.
So as you can see, David is much more than just a superb vocalist. He is a man with a true desire to see God use him. He deeply desires to grow more in God and help, even if just for a moment, a hurting soul. For more information on David and his full concert schedule, please visit http://www.davidphelps.com
Author: AGM
| Author's Website: http://absolutelygospel.com/
Written: 09/30/2004
| 
Category: Feature Articles
Comments: 49
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I really wish all of the people who have criticized David on his appearance would read this article. It really brings into focus what is important and that is using your gifts for God's work, not being dressed to someone else's standard. David is definitely using his gifts to serve God. I really feel a turning point in my faith journey was after hearing David hit the signature "high note" at the key change on "I Believe In A Hill Called Mount Calvary" at a Homecoming concert. At that point, through the power of the song and David's voice, I came to understand the power of Christ's sacrifice for me. I think that he is the greatest singer walking the planet of ANY genre of music. In a recent article, Roy Pauley rated him #3 of CURRENT tenors. Come on Roy, this guy is the greatest singer in SGM history PERIOD!!!! I am so relieved to hear that he has no plans of leaving GVB. Vocally, this could prove to be the greatest lineup they have ever had. David, don't mind what people say about your appearance. Those people are on the wrong page as to what ministry is about. Just know that you are touching lives, because you touched mine!!!!!
I do not post often, but I am willing to go on record here to agree that David is the best vocalist of which I am aware in the history of SG music. (btw, Guy Penrod may be the 2nd best of all time).
Preach it Mike!!!!
Along those same lines of voices I would put in the same league would be Mike English and Larnelle Harris. Both whom sang with GVB. But its still hard to beat David on songs like "No More Night" and possibly the most underated song in SGM history "Let Freedom Ring" WOW!!!!!!
The first year or two that David Phelps was with the GVB, I was very much impressed with his voice. In recent times, however, it seems to me that his "histrionics and dramatic gestures and movements" take away from his vocal presentation. The voice is unchanged but most of its impact is lost. I know this will not make me popular so I will refrain from commenting on his "new look" as far as his attire and hairstyle.
Great article, Mr. Bandy! I really enjoyed it.
David Phelps is the best singer that has ever been in SGM and Christian Music...and he is better than Josh Groban cause the last time I heard Joshy Groban he was sounding really...uh...like he had a frog in his throat. But DP is not better than Pavarotti, no one is. I think that there are no histrionics, that is called "emotion". At least he doesn't have that white hanky like Pavarotti does cause if you want to talk histrionics watch Pavy cause you will NEVER see anyone get so emotional as him...and that, to be honest, is what separates the good from the GREAT. David Phelps is in the GREAT category. Thank you for your interesting article. I hope there is a second part.
Hello Everyone!
I will agree that DP is a tremendous talent, and probably the best range in gospel music. Many of the comments indicated that he is in SGM. Not exactly. Does it surprise you that he never receives awards during the NQC? Apparently he is not concerned enough about that to make some modifications, and that is ok by me, and apparently to thousands of SGM fans.
Jim, there are any number of great singers who do not get awards at NQC. So, that is no indicator of how SG he is or not. The point is, David is very SG when he wants to be. He's very "any other" style when he wants to be.
Deon Unthank
SoGospelNews.com
My Blog
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I'm about as square as I can be but I approve of David's new look. Those that don't are simply jealous. We need to look at people like God does and quit focusing on the outside. It's amazing we don't run off more talented artists with all the nitpicking and pettiness. It's not a new thing. They did it to Pat Boone and they still give that man no rest. Oh, and did I mention, I think David Phelps is one fabulous tenor who knows how to deliver a song where one simply cannot miss the message. And, that my friends, is what it's all about. Go David and may God continue to bless you richly.
PLEASE let's not get another discussion started about what is southern gospel music and what is not!! talk about a dead horse!! I myself agree with Matt. As much as I love Pavarotti and Groban, I don't know of anyone else that can be at the top of the game in any genre they attempt. As far as awards and things of that nature, look at product and record sales and it will tell you who the SGM fans are listening to. LOL
Right on Tony!! This makes me think of a story I once heard from a preacher. It tells of a church service at a good sized church. In the middle of the service, a homeless man walked in and walked down the center aisle. his clothes were old and torn and his hair all in a mess and probably could have used a bath. He walked to the very front of the church right in front of the preacher and sat on the floor Indian style. In the back of the church a woman of the church looked at the head usher and said "look at that man coming in here looking like that and sitting there on the floor. Aren't you going to do something about that?" The head usher said "Yes" and walked to the front of the church and sat down on the floor beside the man and put his arm around him. Now I don't think David Phelps looks like a homeless person, but he does look different than the norm in SGM. No matter what he looks like I think that one day God will welcome him home and say "David, job well done" because he is following God's will and winning souls despite what people say. David know that there are alot more people cheering you than not. Keep on keepin' on. I just challenge those people who are so quick to judge to ask themselves whether they are like the old lady of the church or the head usher. LOL
I read all the above comments with interest. Much like the talk radio,etc. God keeps perfect books. He knows exactly what is the image and what is the real person. Straight to the "heart" of things, I'll just give David Phelps to God and leave it there since my opinio does not count
It is true that David Phelps has an outstanding voice, but why does he and Guy think they have to look like every other rock 'n roll star with their long hair and Guy with his trench coat?
David Phelps is arguably the best singer of any genre.
My name is Rod Hutchinson. I am the tenor in an up and coming group called Growing In Grace. I would just like to add to the discussion that David Phelps is absolutely the best singer in SGM. I have studied and patterned my voice after his for many years. He is an inspiration every time he opens his mouth. As far as his new look, those who are being critical, I encourage you to try and remember how Jesus saw people. I challenge you to study Jesus' ministry and the kind of people He surrounded Himself with. I wonder what the Pharisees were saying when He was witnessing to the woman at the well. They were probably saying, how dare Him to speak of God with hair like that. Beloved let us love one another... IJohn 4:7-8
Hey everybody! I just thought I'd put in my 2 cents. I'm 15 yrs old and a big SGM fan. David is definitely one of my favorite singers ever, in fact he's probably 2nd on my list after Guy Penrod. I think David's new look (or not so new as I just read) will be a plus for the GVB. I think that it will reach out to some young ppl who wouldn't normally listen to anything gaither.
Okay folks, I have no intention of stirring up a hornets nest but I have to put my 2 cents in as well... David Phelps and Guy Penrod are FANTASTIC vocalists and I enjoy GVB more than any other SG group in existance, however, this stuff about their look needs to quit. It's not how they look but what they say that counts! In fact, I think the whole SG industry could take a lesson from them! The lost people of this world veiw the Body of Christ as a bunch of stiff shirted dingbats who would crack their face open if they smile! I mean really examine the scene here! Again I'm not trying to stir a nest but we really need to look at this from a ministry standpoint! Why do we sing GOSPEL music? To spread the GOSPEL of Jesus Christ! Do you think the world should transform to suits and ties in order to please God? No! That's why He said "Whosoever will, may come..." I don't know about you but I'm a whosoever! In fact let me just propose this question. If Jesus were on earth today spreading the message of salvation, would you make Him get a haircut before supporting His ministry? In fact by today's standards He would've been classified as a hippie if judging by appearance. The point is folks, society changes but God doesn't. If you'll concentrate on spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world and stop worrying about other Christian's apperances so much, we might just get this world saved after all!!
And that folks is my humble opinion. Love y'all in Christ and pray God's best for you all!! Amen! :-D
AMEN! Couldn't have said it better, Corey.
I live in Argentina. Sorry about my english.
What happened to the GVB this year at the NQC?
First let me say that a study into the culture of Bible times will show you that Jesus was not the long haired, light skinned "hippie" that ARTISTS have portrayed him to be. Just because he was from Nazareth does not mean that he was a Nazarene (as in Samson).
David Phelps is the best of the best whether solo or with GVB. He and Guy Penrod compliment each other so well with VB.They never win at NQC either but they are the best group for a lot of us folks.Way to go David and Guy and GVB keep it up,doing what God called you to do and his blessing on you beats a NQC award.
All of the discussion about appearance brings to mind I Samuel 16:7 "But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart." God chose David to be king of Israel when everyone around was certain he was not the one that should be chosen. He didn't look right; he was smaller and young; he quite simply didn't fit the "mold."
I'm not looking to start any problems here, but can't stay quiet any longer. Will everyone please stop with the negative comments about the way David and Guy look!
I need to make a correction on a typo.
what does a SGM artist look like? shirt and tie? comb-over? please tell me this isn't what it is all about to some of these people. I always thought David looked uncomfortable in his suit and tie get up. He seems more genuine now. More at ease with himself. Luckily it doesn't matter if everyone in SGM likes him and his "new" look, because God loves to hear praises to his name, and David's soar higher than most.
What is with all the hype about David's hair and clothing? Just shut your eyes and listen! No one sings like he does so who cares what he looks like. He can come to my house anytime and wear whatever he likes. Just keep on singing David.
I have a hole bunch of songs by David Phelps. When he sings with the Gaither vocal band. And when he sings solo. He is the best singer. When he sings he sings with all of his might and every breath with in him. He is just like Vestal Goodman. Both of them loves God with all of their hearts. There is no other singer like David Phelps and Vestal Goodman. As far as David new apperance. It should not bother anybody. They should be listing to the words of what he is singing and the message he is trying to get out to everthing body thru what he is singing. And not worring about his apperance. Every body should be feeling the love of God thru what he is singing.
First of all as a father of 3 teenagers I can tell you that with all the other "christian artists" around today, that David and Guy's appearances are pretty mild. But even as teenagers they are able to see through the appearance and feel the spirit when they sing. Along with Jason Crabb I don't think there are any artists who just exude the Holy Spirit like Guy and David. I remember when I was a kid, Johnny Paycheck had a song about Jesus going into and a church and being kicked out because of his long hair and sandals. I have never forgotten that.
I love the way David looks and his voice. He edifys SGM, AND so he doesn't wear a 3 piece suit, I love him anyway.
I cannot say enough about how great he is. his love of God, his love for music, and his love to minister through music is nothing short of wonderful. I feel he carries everyone who listens to messages. Everyone should appreciate the varity in his songs. We should let David know what he does for everyone. Keep up the good work and God Bless you.
I have never ever heard a guy sing that could even come close to sounding as smooth and awesome as David Phelps. He is with out a doubt the best in SGM. And I would agree with Rod about the look. Yes, maybe he does not wear a suit. But God said make a joyful sound. While I do beleive that David has that taken care of. But you know what makes him even better is that the fact he has the second best singer in gospel music singing beside him in Guy Penrod. Bill Gaither is without the best at putting talent together. While with David and Guy in the group it does not matter who else is in there they will be awesome. I wish I had either one of their talents. Basically the fact is that David is the best singer in Gospel music and Guy is number 2 behind him.
he is hands down a great southern gospel music performer...but i couldnt care less for his solo work and the more contemporary music he does....as for the drastic change in appearance..we are the same age and i dress differently too...however he is a christian music artist and not a rock band singer he should have his shirt buttoned all the way up and not reveal his chest..theres no good purpose that can come from that...he is afterall a married man with 4 kids..
David Phelps is wonderful. His voice range is incredible. David "gestures" only adds to making sure he hits those hi notes. We should all remember what David is saying, not paying attention to what he is wearing. Its the man and his music we should aall appreciate. Keep up the good work David. There's no one like you.
I think David has a great voice. But his image of dress and his hair has somthing to be desired.
The bottom line is David Phelps one of the (in my opinion is the) greatest singers to walk accross a stage ever. His talent and abaility go much farther than just an incredible voice. His musicianship is nothing short of amazing. The songs he aranged on the GVP accapella project are proof of that. By the way the Singing News Awards are hardly a true representation of who the "best" singers are. Just a thought.
HE looks like a punk rocker. The lord wants us to be separate from the world. If you look at the cover of his new album, you could put it in the alternative section and not know the difference. WORLDLY IS NOT GODLY!!! Look like a gospel singer be respected as a gospel singer
Someone has no idea what a punk rocker looks like! I don't see any green hair or eye makeup and black fingernails. No visible body peircings or tatoos either. David's hair is permed by God. He's wearing a t-shirt and a jacket on the cover of his album. I know worldly people who put on a suit and tie every day. The outfit has absolutely NOTHING to do anything. The Bible says to be modest and I don't see David exposing anything he ought not.
I would agree with dwd and Kellie.
There was nothing wrong with the appearance of David Phelps. He's a big guy with a big voice and an even bigger heart for God. The critics are probably jealous cause they're wimps and can't sing half a scale in tune. My wife Rosemary and I present two Christian radio programmes for a small local station and play lots of SG, especially the Gaither music. A few months ago, we were talking to a lady taxi driver in our little town on the NE coast of Scotland who used to watch the Gaither music when they were on Sky satellite TV. One of the voices this lady loved most, was David Phelps. He kind of blew everyone else away, singing the last verse of When I Survey on the Gaither video I'll Fly Away. Keep singing for our great Saviour & Lord Jesus David!
I have no particular skill and no training in music, but I can appreciate excellent talent when I hear it. David Phelps has a voice that makes a listener want to keep on listening. Not many tenor voices can reach that high without losing word clarity, but David has that ability. I hope that he and Guy Penrod never separate --their voices sound excellent together. They both were blessed with great singing voices.
DAVID IS BY FAR THE MOST POWERFUL AND CONTROLLED SG SINGER YET...
My husband Dan & I have watched PBS for many many years. Bill & gloria Gaither has brought so much into our lives about the Love of Jesus. We enjoy all the old gospel hymns and all the wonderful talent we hear. WE sure do love hearing the GBB especailly. with David Phelps, Mark and Guy Penrod and Bill. Their music and talent has brought a relationship made even stronger. Bless you all for the message. They definatley send a message.
I have been a professional singer for the last 45 years, focusing on Doo Wop and singing lead and background vocals.While surfing the cable channels on TV one late night night I found the Gaither Vocal Band. After ordering a CD and Video I "discovered" the most spell bounding singer I ever heard. I know how good Mark, Guy and Bill are but when David Phelps chimed in with his harmony and lead vocals, He literally blew me away. It takes an outstanding talent to impress me in that way and God blessed me by guiding me to that show and that album and now to this website. The reason I came to this website is because David is no longer with the GVB and I want to find out where he is and how I can hear more of his music. He is without a doubt the most exciting vocalist I have had the pleasure of hearing...he doesn't just sing a song he performs it and brings his heart and soul to the forefront.
i AGREE WITH THE COMMENTS ABOUT HOW dAVID INSPIRES HIS LOVE OF MUSIC, HIS TREMENDOUS TALENT AND LOVE OF THE LORD. THE GAITHER GOSPEL PROGRAMS ON PBS HAVE BEEN SO UPLIFING FOR ME AND MY HUSBAND DAN, DAN HAS CANCER AND MANY OTHER COMPLICATIONS AND WATCHING DAVID AND THE VOCAL BAND SING AND ALL THE OTHERS WAS GREAT. I CONTINUES TO LISTEN TO ALL THE PROGRAMS SINCE MY DEAR DAN DID GO HOME TO HIS LORD. DAN MADE AND BOUGHT MANY COPIES FOR ME TO ENJOU. PRAISE GOD FOR YOUR BLESSINGS TO US. JANET SIMKINS
In regards to David's music - He is an amazing talent with a huge heart for God...The latter is what counts the most.
Dear Freund!
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