Gospel Artist Mark Chandler Named October “Best Vocalist Of The Month"
By Dale Kawashima
Mark Chandler
Mark Chandler, a talented gospel artist based in Baltimore, MD, has won the October SingerUniverse “Best Vocalist Of The Month” Competition, for his performance of “I Don’t Know Why (Jesus Loved Me),” which was written by Andrae Crouch. This song is featured on his debut 12-song album, My Offering, which he released independently earlier this year (2007).
“I Don’t Know Why (Jesus Loved Me)” is a joyful, upbeat gospel song, which provides a terrific showcase for Chandler’s impressive vocal ability. He has a deep, rich baritone voice, and he sings this song with power and emotion. This song was co-produced by Chandler and Carlton Burgess (who also played piano on the track), at Burgess’ studio in Tampa, Florida. The recording was engineered and mixed by Mike Rea.
Chandler was born in the city of Salisbury, which is in eastern Maryland. He grew up in a Christian home – his father was a minister and his mother was a missionary. As a young boy, Chandler would sing at church with the choir, and he would also occasionally perform as lead vocalist. And when he was in high school, Chandler sang in the school talent show, and he also sang at various events such as weddings and parties.
Mark Chandler
Yet despite his longtime love of music, Chandler (who is in his 40s) didn’t seriously pursue a music career until fairly recently. It was in 2006 that he decided to record his debut CD, My Offering, which consists of gospel standards sung by Chandler. “I was a late bloomer (as a recording artist),” said Chandler. “Singing was always a passion, but it wasn’t until last year that I truly decided to do it - to record my album.”
Now with the release of his album, Chandler finally has a quality recording which demonstrates his talents as a gospel singer/artist. “I’m happy to have an opportunity to share my music with people,” he said. “I love singing, and I hope in some way, that my music can help encourage or inspire people.”
My Offering has been getting a good response – one of Chandler’s songs has been selected by popular music site Sonicbids for their upcoming compilation CD. In addition, Chandler is looking forward to recording a second album, which would feature new gospel songs written by his friends and collaborators. And lastly, Chandler is also starting to write his own songs.
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"Best Vocalist Of The Month" Winner
Song Title:
"I Don't Know Why (Jesus Loved Me)".
By:
Performed by Mark Chandler of Baltimore, MD. Written by Andrae Crouch.
