Marvin Sapp

By Rene Williams

The words “parched”, “dehydrated” and “dry” conjure up thoughts of a desert, a place lacking water.  But “thirsty” means something entirely different to Marvin Sapp.  It’s a word that reflects a renewed desire for the living water from the lover of his soul, Jesus Christ.  Thirsty is the new project from the Grammy, Dove and Stellar Award-nominated artist Marvin Sapp.  His seventh solo project, Thirsty encompasses what fans have loved about the artist since his days as lead singer with Commissioned – unmatched vocal delivery, and spirited, inspiring performances.

Take a moment to listen to an interview with one of the most recognizable voices in gospel music.

ARW:  How did you end up being a preacher?

MS:  From an early age, since I was eight years old, I knew that’s what I wanted to be.  I personally believe before the foundation of the world that God predestined that I be a preacher of the gospel of Jesus Christ.  I mean, the rest is just history.  I held service in my backyard as a little boy in my neighborhood.  I preached services and I had ushers.  Everybody else was playing games and I was having church.  That was when I was 8 years.

ARW:  When did singing become part of your ministry?

MS: I started singing at the age of four.  My father was a singer; I used to watch him singing at the church.  I remember watching him get up and sing Just A Closer Walk With Thee.  He would sing that song and the people would go crazy.  I found myself at ten going with him to choir rehearsals and getting with him in the choir stand.  One day while he was singing a song, I got up and started singing a song with him.  He passed the mic to me.  And from then on, I’ve been singing for some 36 years now.

ARW: I’ve heard you say that you’re a preacher that sings and not a singer that preaches.  Can you explain that to me?

MS: I always tell people that I’m not a singer that happens to preach, but a preacher that happens to sing.  Because singing is a gifting while preaching is a calling.  The Bible declares that the gifts come without repentance.  I’ve learned that you can be gifted and anointed and not live in accordance to the Word of God.  In order for you to be successful in your call, you must be tapped into the source.  Not only do you have to be tapped into the source but you have to live a life that’s holy and acceptable.  I never put my gift before my call; I always put my call before my gift.  I understand that my gift enhances my call.  They have two distinct personalities and intricacies, but they work together.