Donnie McClurkin - We All Are One: Live in Detroit

By Em Fergusson

One of gospel’s most notable male vocalists has emerged with another invigorating album. Donnie McClurkin is experiencing tremendous success with his latest musical project, We All Are One: Live in Detroit. The experienced and dedicated artist is on a mission to share a powerful message with the world: Christians ought to unite and not encourage divisions. “God did not intend for us to look down on others,” says Donnie, “but the standard of God is love.” Title track, ‘We Are All One’ reminds listeners to return to God by showing love and shedding discrimination. The lyrics speak about love: “And we all are one/And we all are one/ And we all are one in the Lord/Can we learn to love without prejudice?/Can we learn to live with togetherness?/Are we one united, are we undivided?/Are we past the past?/Are we free at last?”

This is Donnie’s first recording in five years and the inspirational brother does not hesitate to pour his heart and soul out on the album. For this considerable occasion, Donnie has invited a number of special guest artists to join him, including CeCe Winans, Yolanda Adams, Mary Mary and Karen Clark-Sheard. They all join him with laid-back groovy tones on the track, ‘When You Love,’ another powerful song that talks about love and how to express that love when it presents itself. Erica Campbell from the female duo Mary Mary sings: “Be committed/ so committed/be committed when you love/when you love.” The song starts off with Donnie talking about how different life is perceived when one is in love. This is a track every listener will ‘fall in love with’ and walk away feeling inspired to act on this ever-powerful emotion.

On the contemporary track, ‘Choose To Be Dancing,’ Donnie leaves tradition at the door, as he poignantly asks listeners to contemplate their choices in life. The song is about enjoying life and appreciating the little moments God gives freely. Donnie McClurkin fans who love the familiar sounds of his uplifting, choir-friendly style, will not be disappointed with the album. On the track, ‘You Are My God and King,’ Donnie approaches worship in a heartfelt fashion, with powerful vocals and a taste of international flare. Years ago, Donnie exploded onto the scene with his diverse musical styles, introducing authentic sounds. This time around, he does the same singing the chorus in Spanish and then French.