LaRue Steward

By Richard Cox

LaRue Steward is a fresh upcoming artist that has an extraordinary anointing as a worship leader. Her debut CD, I’m Free, set the foundation for LaRue’s gifts and talents to be showcased to the music industry. She’s a very passionate worshipper who enjoys leading God’s people into the presence of the Lord. LaRue is also the CEO and president of a Worship Leaders Association. Take a moment to read a conversation with one of gospel music’s brightest new stars.

Gospelcity.com: LaRue, how did you get started singing as gospel artist?

LaRue Steward: I’ve been leading praise and worship at FaithWorld at a mega church in Orlando, Florida with Pastor Clint Brown. I’ve been there since 2001. It was my first time being a worship leader. When I moved into that position I said, “Okay God, this is something you have appointed me to do.” It’s been an incredible adventure and journey… not all highs of course. But it’s definitely been an incredible journey.

GC: You have such an incredible voice. Did you have any formal musical training?

LS: Yes. I received a degree in Vocal Performance from Morris Brown College in Atlanta, Georgia. Through that experience, I learned to sing a variety of musical styles.

GC: Tell us about your new sophomore project.

LS: The title of the CD is The Essence in Your Presence. It’s on the Tribe Music Group label. However, we are in the beginning stages with this project and have signed with EMI Gospel. They are planning to re-release the project and redistribute it the early part of the summer or at the end of year.

GC: How would describe the gospel music styles on this CD?

LS: The Essence in Your Presence has songs that range from a song like Got Joy that is a very low bass – kicking hip-hop funk kinda style of music to Blessed Assurance, a traditional hymn. I do a duet with Jason Crabb a very well-known Southern gospel artist on the song Open the Eyes of My Heart with a Christian style. So there are really a lot of different kinds of songs on there. The purpose of the CD is to minister and grab the attention of everybody…anyone can put this in their CD. You know there’s something on there to get your attention to go to a place of worship.