Bringing glory to God with gospel reggae
Some people think gospel music is old-fashioned.
Marvin Stovell started performing his lively brand of gospel reggae under the name Genevan 20 years ago, in an effort to prove them wrong.
“Gospel reggae music has given me access into the lives of people from all walks of life here in Bermuda and all over the world, no matter what colour, language or nation they are from,” said the 49-year-old. “One thing I’ve found is if they like the sound they’re going to listen to the message.
“Over the years I’ve received many testimonies from people everywhere that have been blessed, lifted, encouraged and changed through this music. That’s one of the main reasons why I believe God allowed me to be introduced to reggae music at such a young age.
“Even when I didn’t know the reason, God was preparing me. He is always way ahead of us because only He knows all things and is in control of all things.”
Mr Stovell’s latest album, Arise, came out last month. He released a music video for the title track at the same time. He grew up in a musical, Christian household.
His late father, Harold Stovell was a pastor and a talented saxophone player; his mother Muriel was a pianist and his four siblings played instruments, sang and wrote music. His brother Jerome sings gospel music as Jae Jerome.
The two have partnered for Brother to Brother, a concert planned for 6.30pm and 9pm at Better Covenant Christian Fellowship on Saturday.
Mr Stovell fell in love with Bob Marley’s music while in primary school. As it happened, it was the only secular music his father allowed in the house.
In 1994 he started creating his own reggae music for his brother Jerome’s group Destiny. Songs like Time Out and I’m So Grateful were the result.
“It was during that process I realised this music could bring glory to God, even though it was not understood or even accepted by the church at that particular time,” he said.
“[It] can be a very powerful force to get God’s message of salvation to those who love the music, but don’t know who He is.”
Music has also strengthened his own walk with Christ.
“I’ve found with Jesus Christ in my life, life is beautiful, abundant and full of eager anticipation,” he said.
“It’s not always easy living out a Christian walk; it definitely has its trying moments, but it’s well worth the fight to overcome, press on and succeed.
“I love Jesus Christ, and every day I love Him more and more. His life, love and light at work within me is my strength and my hope.”
Mr Stovell’s album is available on iTunes, Gospelreggae.com and Google music. Get a signed copy at Better Covenant Christian Fellowship between 9am and 5pm Tuesdays to Fridays.
Two talented gospel artists for the price of one.
That’s what brothers Jerome and Marvin Stovell are promising with their gospel concert today. According to them, Brother To Brother was 20 years in the making.
“That’s how long it’s been since we last ministered together; making it long overdue,” Marvin Stovell said.
“With the release of Jerome’s new EP Inner Man, and the release of my new album Arise, it was fitting that we seize hold of this moment and opportunity to once again unite.”
Both men are expecting lives will be touched by the Christ-centred messages in their music.
“We’re hoping that people who come out to our show and are feeling down will get lifted, those who are stressed find peace of mind, those who come bound leave free, those who are unhappy receive joy, those who are miserable end up having fun,” Mr Stovell added. “Above all of these, [we hope that] if they are lost that they allow themselves to be apprehended by Jesus Christ, who is the very source of this event and the essence of all that we are and the reason we do what it is that we do.”
Brother To Brother will take place at Better Covenant Christian Fellowship on the corner of King and Reid Streets in Hamilton.
Tickets are $40 for general admission and $70 for patrons. Platinum sponsorship start at $150. Tickets available at Better Covenant Christian Fellowship 9am-5pm Tuesday to Friday and at People’s Pharmacy. Tickets are also available on 332-0672 or 337-3231.
