(June 6, 2022) Iryne Rock’s childhood was invested in Christian music through the WOW compilation series that included CeCe Winans and Kirk Franklin. These inspirational nuggets fueled the Nigerian born vocalist to begin writing songs as a teenager — songs she eventually shared as a worship leader. And the blessings kept falling into place with her 2018 full-length debut, Just for You.
Rock’s career was further blossomed by meeting Grammy and Dove nominated producer Billy Smiley, who co-produced her 2021 EP Grateful, featuring the single “What Love Is,” which was highlighted on the BET Soul TV network. With a diverse approach in praising God fusing pop, ambient and contemporary Afro rhythms, Rock offers an uplifting alternative to the mainstream contemporary Christian market.
From her latest EP entitled Never Known, First Listen introduces Rock on the press repeat jam of the title track. The contagious bass synth, funky drum lines and scat hooks shower grooves from the get-go, anchored by Smiley and Grammy winning engineer/producer Jonathan Crone (BeBe & CeCe Winans, Vanessa Williams).
While the song invites those to dance to their heart’s content, Never Known’s gripping message asserts there is hope beyond personal storms. Rock recalls the time God still got the glory despite a family member’s severe illness: “He has always been our provider and healer and He came through and healed my father-in-law!” And that testimony resonates on a thoroughly engaging and exceptionally well-choreographed video. We look forward to hearing more from this gifted worshipper who is working on new Afrocentric tracks honoring her Nigerian heritage. In the meantime, check out the ministry of Iryne Rock.
By Peggy Oliver
Iryne Rock – “Never Known”