We had the good fortune of connecting with Kendall Triplett and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kendall, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
Success is finding out God’s purpose and following it with gratitude and joy.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally? Please tell us more about your art.
My music is a mix of styles including gospel, pop, R&B and soul. I developed my influences by gospel great Andre Crouch, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder and Kirk Franklin.

We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others.
I’m a bighearted person who really enjoys helping others.  My songs are like mini mentoring sessions. I write about the lessons I’ve learned while incorporating the truth of God’s Word.  I sing with lots of passion because I want those around me to experience God’s love.

What you are most proud of or excited about?
I’m most excited about my current single “Rise Up” co-written with Bryan Popin and Delisha Thomas. Bryan Popin is Nashville based Billboard chart-topping songwriter, producer and multiple Stellar Award nominated Gospel artist. Delisha Thomas is a Grammy Nominated and Dove Award Winning Songwriter. “Rise Up” is a high energy, feel-good record with an uplifting message. The song basically says God has already deposited the seed of greatness inside you. Now it’s time to go for dreams. “Rise Up” is undoubtedly my best work. My music video for “Rise Up” has been getting rave reviews. It’s on my YouTube channel www.Youtube.com/KTriplettMusic.com. Shoutout to video director Jeff Adair of Dreamwork Conquer Films and to all the wonderful talent who helped make the video a success. The video was shot at Three Links in Deep Ellum.

How did you get to where you are today professionally?
I always knew that I wanted to sing.  I just didn’t know if I could do it professionally.

I started singing at the age of five at my father’s church. My mom, a singer and a pianist, helped me develop my talent. As more people found out about my singing, they would invite me to their churches. 

After college, I moved to Arlington, Texas for employment opportunities and to pursue a career in music. In 1998, I auditioned for Kirk Franklin’s Unsung Singer’s Promo talent search. I made the final cut and received $1,000 with the possibility of working with Kirk in the future. Although no relationship resulted, that opportunity motivated me to keep pursing my dream.

Two years later, I moved back to Fort Smith where I served a minister of music at several local churches. Also, I worked a night dispatch job while continuing to sing and record in my spare time.  From there, I started putting out music.  

Here are a few of my highlights:

  • Debut album “Lose Myself” was nominated for five Rhythm of Gospel Awards in 2015.
  • Single “Authority” received positive reviews from Hollywood Producer, New York Times Best Selling Author and Motivational Speaker DeVon Franklin in 2017.
  • Single “My Everything” debuted No. 1 at Christian Radio Chart for one week in February 2019, and ranked No 3 for the year.

Was it easy?
No, it wasn’t.  In fact, I was seriously contemplating letting go of music three years ago.  I was constantly comparing myself to others.  I wasn’t seeing the success that I wanted, and it didn’t seem like I measured up. I thought that maybe God was calling me into a different area of ministry.  After having a conversation with God, I heard Him say, “Don’t allow what’s going on around you to change you. My plans for you are still good. Get back in faith and rise up.” That’s how the song “Rise Up” was birthed.

If not, how did you overcome the challenges?
I’ve had to overcome feelings of hopelessness.  I’ve learned how to keep myself encouraged by keeping God’s Word before me on a daily basis.  Rev. Kenneth E. Hagin, known for pioneering the Word of Faith movement said, “When you know that God is for you, in you, and with you, you’ll rise to the top.” 

What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way?
Firstly, be humble and trust God especially when life doesn’t make sense.  Secondly, be patient and enjoy the journey so that you can develop. Thirdly, always be grateful for where you are and for what you have.  Fourthly, embrace who you are and don’t compare yourself to others. 

What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I strive to be an agent of love so that healing can flow to others.  Love is the driving force in my life.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One of the most exciting places that I’ve discovered is Social Dallas Church. I was invited to a worship night service in November. After that one visit, I was hooked and I can’t get enough of that place. I absolutely love being a member and serving there.  Services are filled with love, joy and praise. It’s amazing to be a part of a church that creates a safe environment where broken lives can be restored. Robert and Taylor Madu are amazing lead pastors. The church is only 9 months old and it’s growing at a rapid speed. Services are currently being held on Sundays at 9am and 11:30am at Gilley’s located at 1135 Botham Jean Blvd in downtown Dallas. You should definitely come visit!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

My late parents Rev. R.C. Triplett and Hazel Marie Triplett were my biggest fans. They both passed away in 2020.

Shoutouts to all my family and friends for their love and support.

Big shoutout to DeVon Franklin for showing me what success in faith and entertainment looks like. In 2018, I had the opportunity to meet him after one of his preaching engagements in Kansas City, KS. During that visit, DeVon graciously recorded a video on my phone talking about how important my music is.  He encouraged me to keep following God and said that I was going to make great impact through my music.

Website: https://linktr.ee/Kendalltriplett

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkendalltriplett

Youtube: http;//www.youtube.com/KTriplettMusic

Image Credits
Andrew Sherman

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