In a heartfelt conversation with Cheryl Jackson on Radio One D.C., iconic gospel singer Yolanda Adams opened up about her career, her enduring friendship with Cheryl, and her upcoming album, Sunny Days. Their lively exchange offered fans a closer look at Yolanda’s incredible journey, from personal reflections to professional milestones.
Cheryl expressed her excitement about catching up with Yolanda, recalling fond memories of their past interviews at the station. Yolanda, reflecting on her long break from recording, shared how grateful she is to still be connected with her fans. She emphasized how these ongoing connections, despite her absence from the studio, have kept her spirit engaged with the world.
Although it’s been 13 years since Yolanda released a new album, she highlighted how active she’s remained throughout the years. From working on the TV series Kingdom Business to contributing music to various projects, Yolanda’s career has been anything but stagnant. She also discussed past collaborations and specials that helped keep her in the public eye.
Cheryl praised Yolanda’s timeless tracks like “Just a Prayer Away,” while Yolanda reflected on the profound power of writing and performing music drawn from personal experience. She noted that songs like “Victory” and “My Liberty” continue to resonate with listeners, demonstrating the lasting impact of her work.
The conversation also touched on the evolution of Yolanda’s audience. Known for her crossover appeal, especially with hits like “Gotta Have Love,” Yolanda discussed how gospel music has expanded beyond the church community to reach people across various genres. She reflected on how her music, rooted in faith, has connected with secular audiences who often have church backgrounds.
Yolanda spoke warmly about her supportive relationships within the music industry, particularly with Cheryl, who has also executive produced projects for other artists. She expressed gratitude for the collaborative spirit in the industry, noting how these partnerships have kept her motivated and inspired.
The conversation naturally shifted to Yolanda’s forthcoming album, Sunny Days. Created in response to the current global climate, the album’s name was chosen to bring hope and encouragement. Yolanda shared that the album focuses on themes of joy, peace, and God’s promises, offering a message of positivity for challenging times.
Yolanda’s passion for performing was palpable as she discussed the thrill of touring. Comparing it to past tours with legends like Fred Hammond and Kirk Franklin, she expressed how revitalizing it is to perform for live audiences. Despite the exhausting schedule, Yolanda’s energy remains infectious, and she shared her excitement about taking her new music to the stage.
In an unexpected turn, Yolanda shared her love for dancing, explaining how it enhances her musical experience. She expressed how dancing allows her to connect even more deeply with her audience, combining movement and music to create an uplifting experience for both herself and her fans.
Finally, Yolanda addressed the shift to virtual worship during the pandemic. While she acknowledged the convenience of attending church online, she stressed the irreplaceable value of in-person worship. For Yolanda, sharing the experience of God’s work with others in a physical setting is a deeply significant aspect of spiritual life.
