Vashawn Mitchell

“ I do a lot of reading (more than listening to music) I allow God to speak to me about everything and from there songs are born.”

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do?

A. My name is VaShawn Mitchell and for more than 20 years, I have had the privilege to minister as an artist and producer in the Gospel Music Industry

Q. What motivated you to become a music artist?

A. I always knew I wanted to allow God to use my gifts and talents to create something that would impact lives around the world. For a season that assignment was lived out in my local church. Then God placed in me the desire to spread His message beyond the four walls of my local church and my journey as an artist began.

Q. Out of all the songs you have which one would you consider your favorite?

A. That is a difficult question especially having made as much music as I have over my career. I would have to say “Now Be Restored”. It is a reminder to me that even when we have to go through difficult situations – God will never leave us destitute. He never allows suffering for no reason. We will always come out as victorious.

Q. Tell us about “Home for Christmas” and the motivation behind it?

A. This pandemic redefined the concept of “home” for our world. In 2020 it became our school, office, hospital, church, gym you name it. For many the idea of being Home for Christmas evoked feelings of pain and isolation. I wanted to create a body of music that allowed us to see this time as one of celebration – even though different what had been our tradition. I wanted to inspire us to take back our holiday and make it about worship – especially now that a lot of the other distractions had been stripped away.

Q. How would you describe the music that you typically create?

A. I make gospel music typically. More importantly I create music that is meant to inspire and encourage listeners.

Q. Who are some people that have been a big inspiration in your life?

A. I have been blessed to be mentored many of the great voices in our genre. BeBe Winans and Donald Lawrence stand out as two who have encouraged, counseled, rebuked, guided and celebrated with me over the years.

Q. Can you tell us one of your most memorable experiences you have had in the music industry?

A. I love traveling overseas. I would say recording in South Africa remains one of my most memorable experiences. It challenged my faith more than any other project, but also allowed me to see God show Himself faithful in ways I could never imagine.

Q. What is something you would like to change in the music world?

A. I believe we need to move back to a place of increased regard our genre. This is an assignment given to us by God. We need to steward (not manage) our message in a way that draws not alienates. Our acceptance has to come from a definition of success that goes beyond the constructs of “industry”. The industry is important, necessary and vital – but should not be our only standard.

Q. What is your creative process like behind the scenes?

A. Most of my music is created when I be listening to the questions of the earth and the answers of heaven. I do a lot of reading (more than listening to music) I allow God to speak to me about everything and from there songs are born.

Q. Are there any projects or events you are working on for 2021?

A. Yes. Again God has been speaking and I am writing what He is saying to be released during this time. Each season requires a different message and what he is sharing now I believe will help the listeners continue to believe God with a complete assurance that He will lead and guide us through life’s transitions.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter – VaShawnMitchell. Website – www. vashawnmitchell.com