Listen to Neo-Soul Gospel Sean C. Johnson's "Mountains"

By Timothy Yap Jan 24, 2015 12:44 AM EST

Neo-soul Gospel artist Sean C. Johnson has just released his single "Mountains." The song is produced by Tom Misch, it is taken from his forthcoming album "Circa 1993." Johnson says of the new single: "Sometimes we find ourselves in dark places because of our own decisions and actions, but other times our 'mountains' serve another purpose...to take us HIGHER!! "I give mountains to you so you can go higher.""

For Sean, soul music comes natural. At first glance, one might not envision this former Air Force Staff Sergeant as a soul singer - no afro blowing in the wind and no "tortured genius" look. He does, however, have his own unique vibe - an unsuspecting and compassionate demeanor that produces a sound that pulls you in. Sean offers music that lyrically takes the listener deep into the Word, flowing hypnotically over Neo Soul ballads and Hip Hop beats.

Some of Sean's earliest influences include Quartet lengends The Dixie Hummingbirds, The Fairfield Four, and The Canton Spirituals. Growing up in a family of singers (Mother was a music teacher) Sean spent Sunday dinners singing along to The Winans, The Clark Sisters, and Sam Cooke. As his musical palete grew he was introduced to artist like D'Angelo, The Roots, John Legend, and Anthony Hamilton. Falling in love with their sound at first listen, Sean melded these genres (Quartet, Hip Hop, Soul) to form his own brand of Soul Music.

Sean is doing his part to continue to make Soul music a vital part of the Gospel music genre. "I think all genres need to be represented in Gospel music," Sean suggests. "Outside of regular worship service, gospel music you listen to should be like a buffet, something to satisfy every appetite. With Soul music, it's the same food, just seasoned differently." There are very few soul and neo soul gospel artist, but Sean's music represents a rising presence of the ministry and sound of real soul and real 'life music'.