Memphis’ most dynamic young gospel ensemble, Vincent Tharpe & Kenosis, has taken a large leap ahead on its trek to stardom. The group’s debut CD “Live in Memphis” (EPM Music Group) has debuted at #9 on Billboard’s coveted Top Gospel Albums chart. “WOW,” the 24-year old Tharpe says. “I am totally in awe of the favor of God on my life and the life of my music ministry. This is my very first CD, and to see that it has debuted in the Top 10 on the charts, brings about an overwhelming, awesome feeling.”
“Vincent Tharpe & Kenosis have shown the youthful exuberance and dedication to ministry that we truly believe is the future of Gospel Music,” says EPM Music Group General Manager Scott Cameron. “We signed VTK because of this, and in particular the ensemble’s dynamic live performances with their ability to lift any church off its foundation.”
It’s no surprise that the spirited assembly’s percussively funky sing-a-long track “Thank You, Lord” is beginning to make an impact at gospel radio as well. Their joyous song of gratitude has entered Nielsen BDS’ Top 100 Gospel Airplay Report.
Tharpe received the inspiration to launch his own group when he was the director of the Voices of Harambee, a gospel choir at Craigmont High School in Memphis. He took the word Kenosis from Philippians 2:5-8 (a Biblical scripture) in which Jesus Christ emptied himself of his divine attributes in order to identify with mankind. Their soul-stirring stage performances have the gospel world buzzing and earned them an appearance on BET’s long-running “Bobby Jones Gospel” program.
“I wanted to give them this opportunity to `bring it’ on a national level,” says EPM founder and Stellar Award nominated vocalist Earnest Pugh. “I’m very optimistic about their ministry because they manage to attract young adults but they are also seasoned enough to capture the attention of the mature church crowd as well.”
For more information on Vincent Tharpe & Kenosis and other EPM Music Group acts, visit www.epmmusicgroup.com.
