(March 19, 2023) Growing up in the midst of gospel royalty, Kierra Sheard-Kelly strived for excellence in praise and worship. Before she forged a solo career, Kierra contributed on recordings starting at age nine with her aunt, Dorinda Clark-Cole and her mother, Karen Clark-Sheard, two members of the iconic Clark Sisters. And undoubtedly Kierra has extended upon that Clark family legacy. Her remarkable accomplishments include Billboard chart appearances of her first six albums (five that reached #1 on the U.S. Gospel Charts). Add actress (The Clark Sisters; The First Ladies of Gospel), author, and record label CEO to her near two-decade calling. But it is that impeccable blend of R&B, pop, hip-hop and rock – sealed with Kierra’s affirmative performances – that cements her place alongside Contemporary Gospel greats like Fred Hammond and The Winans.
In 2022, SoulTracks featured Kierra and her mother sharing electrifying praises on “Something Has to Break.” On our latest First Listen installment from her 7th full-length, All Yours (Karew Entertainment/RCA Inspiration), Kierra and Mali Music relay encouraging yet admonishing lessons behind “What Matters.” “What Matters” centers on one’s faith once they make the decision to follow Christ. After a brief acoustic intro, Mali pilots his multi-directional melodies into neo-soul sandwiched with a roots-reggae mid break. While the music steadily moves along, the lyrics illustrates reminders on making wise choices to sustain a faith walk:
“’Cause you seem to forget/
What it felt like when you let Me in/
I was talking in your ear/
I gave you truth that set you free.”
No matter who Kierra is paired with (or on her own), the presence of God and musical excellence always takes centerstage. Listen up!
By Peggy Oliver
