New York, NY — The Knockturnal was grateful to attend an intimate listening session inside the walls of Smash Studios at 307 West 36th Street, where a select gathering of radio promoters, writers, label executives, and lovers of good news came together to celebrate Jekalyn Carr’s newest album, The Legends. Hosted by Hassan James of Root Magazine, the evening was more than a preview — it was a spiritual encounter layered with reverence, joy, and divine purpose.
Since stepping into the gospel spotlight at 15 years old, Carr has become one of the genre’s most distinguished voices. In less than a decade, she’s amassed an extraordinary list of accolades: six Stellar Awards, four Dove Awards, a GRAMMY Award, and other major honors. Her journey has been nothing short of miraculous — a testament to faith, consistency, and the verse that fuels her: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).
An independent gospel artist, writer, radio host, and now actress, Carr continues to expand her creative universe. At Smash Studios, she spoke with conviction about being led by God in every step of this project. “Each call, each collaboration, each song, it all came through prayer,” she shared.
The album opens with a powerful spoken moment — a phone call to Dr. Bobby Jones, a legend in gospel media whose historic BET show Bobby Jones Gospel gave countless artists their first national platform. To gospel what Don Cornelius was to soul on Soul Train, Dr. Jones’s impact is immeasurable. Carr began her own journey with him, and it was only fitting that this project would honor that legacy.
The session also featured a live performance from Carr — she sang one of the new songs and had the entire room on its feet. The energy was contagious and spirit-filled. This album carries the heart of appreciation for the legends who paved the way, while simultaneously cementing Carr’s own place among the greats for years to come.
The Legends lives up to its name as an intergenerational praise party, featuring collaborations with some of gospel’s greatest voices: Yolanda Adams, Dottie Peoples, Shirley Caesar, Karen Clark Sheard, BeBe Winans, and others whose influence continues to shape gospel’s sound and message.
In addition to her legendary collaborations, Carr worked closely with her father on the album; he not only assisted her in the creative process but was also present at the listening session, witnessing the celebration of their shared vision.
At its core, this project is a love letter to legacy, a joyful acknowledgment of those who came before, intertwined with a bold expression of the now. Serving as executive producer, Carr experimented with textures, tones, and spiritual depth, allowing each track to reflect a conversation between generations.
She reminded the room why her songs like “Bigger”, “You Will Win”, and “Jireh” have become anthems of faith and perseverance. Her newest track, “Don’t Faint,” quickly emerged as a favorite, a declaration of endurance reminding listeners that “it may not be happening right now, but your time is coming.”
Carr also revealed that beyond her musical gifts, God has shown her the power of the spoken word, a reminder that her purpose extends to teaching, speaking, and leading through inspiration. “I love being a gospel artist,” she said with a smile. “It’s a powerful genre, one that lets me speak through music, but also with words.”
In addition to her music career, Carr hosts her own nationally syndicated radio show, The Jekalyn Carr Show, where she connects faith, music, and motivation for listeners around the world.
What inspired many in the room was the undeniable truth that Jekalyn X The Legends is an inspiration for today’s gospel; it’s a timeless project that bridges generations. This album is literally an intergenerational praise & worship party, appreciating gospel icons while inviting a new generation to the same message, which is about Jesus, faith, and rooted in legacy.
Jekalyn X The Legends is worth every listen she hears, and she brought this divine idea into manifestation for the world to experience.
Stream and download Jekalyn X The Legends here:
