Marvin Sapp
By Sharon {Ladee Storem} Acres


Ladee Storem: We are here with Marvin Sapp with the hottest single out “Never Would Have Made It.” Is it true that the song was written about your father?

Marvin Sapp: Actually, my father passed away two years ago and he was a member of my church. I always closed out praise and worship at my assembly and I came to church one Sunday and stood up and started singing the words to the song.

Ladee Storem: Really?

Marvin Sapp: Yes………….

Ladee Storem: The words came to you just like that…………………

Marvin Sapp: It came to me just like that, I never would have made it without you, I would have lost my mind and now I see how you were there for me etc.

Ladee Storem: Wow, that’s amazing…………
.:read more:.

 

Marvin Sapp

Marvin Sapp: And because my wife kept pushing me, we end up recording it and the rest is history. It’s been 49 weeks at number one on Gospel Radio and 51 weeks on the Billboard, its incredible how one song can change your life.

Ladee Storem: Oh yes it will, because every time I hear it or sing it I feel so blessed.

Marvin Sapp: Thank you, thank you so much……….
Ladee Storem: So what is your testimony?

Marvin Sapp: You know what; I believe “Never Would Have Made It” is my testimony. The truth of the matter is the reason why I’m here today is not because I’m so gifted, there’s many out there that are gifted. It’s not because I’m so talented, because there’re many out there that are talented. I know God deals in seasons………

Ladee Storem: Yes, that is so true.

Marvin Sapp: And seasons come and go and you can’t get caught in it and I’m just thankful that he has allowed me to succeed and excel at this level while I’m able to handle it. Being in this industry for 19 years, I started recording when I was 23 and sticking around all this time I’m knocking on 42 {he knocks on the table/wood} and I’m bless that my kids are able to experience and see the successes of their father.
They don’t remember the Commission days {laughter} because they weren’t here, but I’m glad that they can look at their father and say man, he’s a great man of God.
 

Ladee Storem
: There’s a lot of Holy Hip Rappers and Gospel singers that’s trying to make it in the Gospel industry that would love to open up for you in concert. How can they go about doing that?

Marvin Sapp: {laughter} I don’t know, I use to think I was Contemporary………….

Ladee Storem
: Oh really?
 
Marvin Sapp and Ladee Storem
Marvin Sapp: When I was with the group Commission, Mike Williams is here he’s one of the original members, the drummer and does sound for me. Back when we started about 19 years ago we were singing “Love Is The Way” we were doing shows with Run DMC, Boyz 2 Men and Chucky Booker, so we were Urban Contemporary. When I saw that I was nominated for traditional artist of the year at the Stellar Awards I was blown away. I was like dag I’m getting so old that I’m traditional {laughter} but if it fit it fits……my thing is my son and daughters they enjoy Holy Hip Hop, for my son’s birthday we bought in “The Truth” and we really enjoyed it. To open up for me…..I don’t know, just call I guess…….put the promoter on it and make it happen.

Ladee Storem: Will this year {2009} be a big year for you?

Marvin Sapp: I’ve been nominated six times for a Grammy maybe number seven will be the charm. If it happens that will be great if it don’t I’ll be cool with it. I’m just looking at this year to be peaceful, I’ve worked hard my entire musical career….I’ve never worked this hard before………this is unreal. I’ve done everything, I’ve song at every event, and my record label has had me on major promotional events. I’m just hoping that this year I won’t have to work as hard but still make as much money and don’t have to work as hard….{laughter} I’m just enjoying the ride and telling God thank you and any way you bless me I’m satisfied.

Ladee Storem: Thank you so much for your time….and we’ll be looking for a “Never Would Have Made It” Gospel Stage Play soon right?

Marvin Sapp: You know what, that’s a good idea……….

Ladee Storem: Can I write it for you?

Marvin Sapp: {laughter} You can help me put it together………….

Ladee Storem: This is your girl once again bringing you the Gospel 411...............
 

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