Daniel Winans

Gospel singer Daniel Winan’s genius for conveying a pure Christian message through music is as fresh and contemporary as anything the secular music world has to offer. Over the course of his life and career, Daniel Winans has given a great deal of thought to what’s necessary.

Born in Detroit, he was one of ten children in the extraordinary Winans family. “There was never a dull moment in our house,” he remembers with a laugh, “we had love all the time, and we never knew what it meant not to share.” Not only were his parents shining examples of Christian love and forbearance, but they also brought the sound of music into the home, so that every night became a private family Gospel concert. “I was called the country singer of the family,” he says. “They thought I sounded like a white country singer, but that’s okay; one of my best friends is now Vince Gill.”

As important as music was, Daniel’s relationship with the Lord was paramount. After being saved while in high school, Daniel examined his career options. Surprisingly, singing was not one of them at first. He worked briefly in a soda pop factory in Detroit before seizing the opportunity to record a demo of original songs with his sisters Debbie and Angelique. That led to interest on the part of several record companies, both Christian and secular. In 1987, Daniel released his debut album. Over the course of his career, Daniel has never lost his sense of gratitude for being able to make a living singing the Lord’s praises. “Music has never been about money or fame for me or anyone in my family,” he says, “The Lord just sent this our way, and I’m very honoured He blessed me like this.”