Kelli Williams-Malcolm
1978 -
Kelli Williams, gospel music singer and songwriter, was introduced to the professional world of gospel music when she sang at age ten with Take 6 and Larnelle Harris. She then was a winner on the television talent show Star Search in 1993, at age 15, and two years later released her first CD, Kelli Williams. A second CD, I Get Lifted, followed in 1998 and earned two nominations for a Dove award and a Nashville Music Award.
A third CD, In The Myx, followed two years later. It represented a bold departure from her previous CDs and was nominated for a Nashville Music Award. Williams was also nominated in 2000 for a Stellar Award as Contemporary Vocalist of the Year.
Kelli began performing as a child in church. The appearance with Take 6, the leading gospel group in the 1980s, was a validation of talent that surprised both her and her family. After winning on Star Search, she went on the road with Cece Winans as an opening act. This experience and the interaction with Winans, proved a maturing experience for her and an invaluable introduction to the rigors of professional performance.
Williams now provides a positive influence on the younger singers who travel on her tours. She encourages them to develop and understand their individuality, yet stresses to them the importance of their being united in their purpose of spreading the message of the gospel through song and living the life they sing about. In all that she does, she wants to transcend cultural, racial, and denominational differences so as to reach as many people as she possibly can through her music.
ds/2009