Lee Jerkins, CEO of RockSoul Productions has been an advocate of the Holy Hip-Hop & Urban Music Movement for the last decade. His constant mission has been to develop artists that are sold out for Christ and prepare their ministry for global impact. It has been his long-time passion to fulfill the great commission through the arts and entertainment. “I believe that God can redeem the arts such as singing, dancing, rap, acting, etc. and use them as tools to win the lost. It is especially glorifying to God when artists reverence the Lord with their gifts and choose not to compromise their faith for the sake of true ministry and true servant-hood”. Jerkins, commends and admires those artists that he believes are equally as capable as their secular counter-parts but have chosen to live a life of sacrifice. In addition to being passionate and driven, Lee is a stickler for excellence. “We cannot change the world with sub-par material and ability. We need people to hear this life-changing message, but they will only stop to listen when there are no distractions.” So in the interim Jerkins continues to influence his artist’s to put their best foot forward and challenge himself to greater levels.
As a producer for the last 15 years, and having garnered Grammy and Stellar nominations, as well as a Dove Award, Lee Jerkins has been blessed to have produced music for many artists including The Cross Movement, Ambassador, Da Truth, Out of Eden, Kierra “Kiki” Sheard, Lisa McClendon, and most recently, his artist, wife & confidant Michelle Bonilla.
Where most people are concerned about the down-sizing of the music industry Lee is excited of the new opportunities and possibilities it presents for independent artists/labels. “What’s great about this new market is that the artist has more control over their musical direction”. But not everybody is willing to accept that change, however, as Jerkins has witnessed first-hand the up’s and down’s of the Gospel Music industry, there are still those who are traditionally un-willing to accept Urban music as a God-redeemed tool with the potential to affect our generation. “Most people are not willing to accept change on any level. I believe the older generation should encourage the younger to speak to their generation. They should provide guidance and council and finances to allow the younger ones to reach where they are not willing to go. If Christians do not support and help guide these young artists in the right direction, then the world will do so gladly. Some traditional Christians are apprehensive because they don’t understand the new sound-it’s foreign to them. They can’t sing some of the songs in church, so they don’t see the value in it. I think we are making small strides towards the necessary and eventual change that things are getting better but it’s very important to support our artists”.
Jerkin’s maintains busy a schedule trying to affect a generation for Christ. In addition to being a loving husband, his wife’s manager and producer he is also rebuilding his new company RockSoul Productions. Currently, RockSoul’s roster has expanded to include rap artist Mark Arthur, and songstress Donielle Rodwell. I am very excited about this new young lady. Mark Arthur’s new album is crazy and should be out at the top of the year. I’m also planning to begin work on RockSoul Vol II and Donielle Rodwell’s debut album!” “Michelle’s new album In Spite of Me is out and for sale on most digital outlets—and while I’m excited about our latest effort I believe the best of her is yet to come. I’m excited to see what new adventure God has for us. I hope to keep pushing past the challenges to reach our generation so they might know of the same Grace, Mercy, and, Love that has changed my life”.