Official Bio

Exclusive Interview with GospelReggae.com

GR: What influences do you think shine through in your music?

Ronnel: I think I have a good back ground in my music, both from a classical as well as a more contemporary stand point. So on one hand, I was singing in my school's choir and on National Choirs, and then on the other end of the spectrum, I was raised in a Pentecostal church, where the music was more versatile. As a result, through the years, I've been working on mixing both worlds of music to create a sound that was strong and rich in timber, but yet still smooth and stylish. Moreover, I would say that beside all of the other factors, the most essential ingredient is the word of God. All of my music and every thing I sing has doctrinal foundation, and that more than any thing is what pierces the spirit of an individual.

GR: Tell us a little about your background in music? (eg: instruments you play, lessons etc)

Ronnel: I started sing at the age of 4 and as I grew older I not only sang in church but also at different gospel concerts and national events. I have received training in voice and music, from various institutions and I also play the keyboard, which I started doing at the age of 14. I have also composed many songs of different genres. Usually, when I lead worship I play and sing.

GR: What is your primary goal with singing?

Ronnel: I desire to see my singing move beyond natural talent and break in to a realm where it becomes prophetic. I am striving to sing not just from my mind, but from my spirit; to the extent that while singing I allow God to move upon my spirit and give me a prophetic song that will reach the sick person in the audience, or the man who beats his wife, or that person that is about to get another fix, or drink and so on, to let them know that there is hope in Jesus. The reality is, if my singing does not minister to others, it is pointless.

GR: If someone was to describe you in three words or less, what do you think they would say?

Ronnel: They would probably say; Talented, ingenious, and anointed.

GR: What bible character do you most identify yourself with?

Ronnel: In terms of my gifts I would say David because I seek after God with my whole heart and use my musical aptitude to invite the presence of God. However, I, concerning my character aspire to be like Daniel who was a man of rectitude.

GR: In what direction do you see Gospel Reggae headed?

Ronnel: The fact that I am able to get on a web site with other Gospel Reggae artists from around the Caribbean and the world, speaks volumes about the Gospel Reggae industry. Added to that, I am of the opinion that Gospel Reggae is definitely touching people around the world; especially "Religious" believers who tend to think that they cannot be reached. However, I must say that some of the artists need to move beyond that fact that they could sing to a popular beat or tune, and see that they are indeed reaching souls. Nevertheless, Gospel Reggae is the Best thing that happened to Gospel Music. There is nothing more impacting than a cultural invasion that reaches souls and causes people to realize that we can praise God with our culture and musical styles, and it makes Him smile even more as He was the one who created it.

GR: What artist(s) would you most like to work with in the future?

Ronnel: I really admire Pa Pa San and they way he has been able to impact international audiences. I went to all of his concerts in Antigua and Barbuda and would definitely like to work with him at some point in time. Another pioneer in my book would be Sherwin Gardener. I have actually performed twice at the same concert at which he was the guest artist, held in Grenada and St. Lucia for the Pentecostal Assembly of the West Indies (P.A.W.I.) Youth Fest. However, He is some one I would like to do some work with because I like the way he inter-mixes Soca with Dancehall styles. Now that's something I am definitely in to.

GR: What do you think is lacking in Gospel Reggae?

Ronnel: Sometimes I think that some of the songs could say more. That I would say would be the only thing.

GR: What is your favourite bible verse and why?

Ronnel: Galatians 5:1 : Stand fast in the liberty where Christ has set us free... I thank God every day the I am free in Christ Jesus, and that I don't have to live in fear.

GR: Do you prefer being in the studio or on the road?

Ronnel: Although I enjoy being in the studio, it is very rewarding to actually experience the moving of God's spirit upon the audience and subsequently being able to interact with them. My ministry is about a personal touch from God.

GR: What advice would you give someone who wanted to pursue a ministry in music?

Ronnel: Most importantly, you must first commit your life totally to God and allow His Spirit to guide you. One must not get into any ministry for personal gain but to bless and bring others to Christ.
Colossians 3:16 - King James Version
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. Colossians 3:17

GR: What can we expect from you in the near future?

Ronnel: As it stands right now, I am working along with Mysta Oracle and we are in the planning stage of a project. However, as for me, I plan to venture out from the Gospel Reggae genre to explore other genres in the future. It is my desire to release a worship album.

Ministry

Discography

Double Trouble Riddim Compilation (2006)

Concerts

There are currently no upcoming events listed.

Contact / Booking:

Ronnel Benjamin
E-mail: rdbenjamin@hotmail.com

Official EMail:

rdbenjamin@hotmail.com

Photos