Grammy-winning singer Fantasia Barrino-Taylor is answering a long-ignored calling with her upcoming eighth studio album, pivoting to gospel music after years of success in R&B and soul.
The former “American Idol” winner revealed in a recent Instagram post that she had been “running” from God’s direction to create gospel music, despite feeling the pull for many years.
Barrino-Taylor recently revealed that she had been avoiding this musical direction despite feeling spiritually led toward gospel for years. The singer explained her decision came in response to what she perceives as increasing darkness in both the entertainment industry and society.
Fantasia ‘ready to give back to God’
“The world right now is dark, and a lot is going on,” Barrino-Taylor wrote. “I see so much in the industry, and I’m ready to give back to God what He deserves after being so good to me.”
The 40-year-old singer offered a glimpse of her new musical direction with a stirring performance of her gospel single “Have Your Way” on “American Idol” Monday, returning to the show that launched her career in 2004. The emotional rendition brought audience members to their feet and showcased her signature powerhouse vocals, now directed toward spiritual themes.
Following the performance, Barrino-Taylor told host Ryan Seacrest that her motivation stemmed from current world challenges.
“We need more God,” she said. “I’ve allowed Him to use me on the biggest stage ever.”
The shift to gospel represents a full-circle moment for Barrino-Taylor, who began singing in church choirs as a child in High Point, N.C., before rising to fame. While she has occasionally incorporated gospel elements into her performances, this marks her first complete project dedicated to the genre.
Alongside her musical evolution, Barrino-Taylor has launched “Flower Child,” a podcast she describes as “for all the beautiful women.” The platform allows her to share personal stories and spiritual insights with her audience.
Though best known for her recording career, Barrino-Taylor has recently diversified her résumé. She starred in the film adaptation of The Color Purple musical, earned a Tony nomination for her Broadway performance in “After Midnight,” and published a memoir detailing her journey from hardship to success.
The yet-untitled gospel album is expected to be released soon through Barrino-Taylor’s independent label, Rock Soul Productions.
