Trinidadian gospel reggae singer Sherwin Gardner is affirming his faith in his latest song, ‘Over Me’, released in the third quarter of 2023 via Flow Master and Tyscot Records.
“Blessings are all on me; you don’t know my testimony or the blessings of the Lord over me.” Through powerful lyrics, Gardner details his struggles and his night alone when he cries, even as he holds fast to the belief that the Lord will come through.
The video, which was officially released on December 7 last year, helps to cement his heartrending testimony.
Delivered in a breezy Afrobeat that swings with swag and spirituality, he also adds a Caribbean undertone to this instantly engaging groove.
Sherwin Gardner, according to his online bio, comes from a lineage of evangelists deeply rooted in the Christian faith. His mother, Rev. Merle Gardner, is a pastor; his uncle, Kennedy Patterson, is a gospel artist; and his grandfather, Ivan Patterson, was a revered bishop in the New Testament church. Sherwin’s journey into gospel music started at a young age, singing in churches at just five years old. His debut album, “Power in the Name,” was released when he was only 17, marking the beginning of an extraordinary musical odyssey.
Sherwin Gardner challenged conventions by fusing reggae, soca, and dancehall rhythms with gospel messages, defying the dismissal of gospel music with Caribbean instrumentation as secular. The status quo not only changed, but he eagerly embraced his unique fusion of reggae, soca, and dancehall rhythms with gospel messages. His music became a catalyst, inspiring youth to transform their lives and submit to the crucified Christ.
Sherwin’s impact on Caribbean gospel music is undeniable. He has earned nine Marlin Awards, the Caribbean’s premier gospel accolades, and is also a Stellar Award nominee, an unprecedented honour for a non-Jamaican artist. He further solidified his position as Gospel Songwriter of the Year, receiving the COTT Award (Copyright Organisation of Trinidad & Tobago) for two consecutive years.
His influence extends far beyond the Caribbean. He has produced numerous albums and collaborated with renowned artists such as CeCe Winans, Israel Houghton, Jonathan Nelson, Papa San, Todd Delaney, Deitrick Haddon, and DJ Nicholas. His work has taken him to the United States, where he has shared stages with gospel luminaries and served in various churches.
Looking ahead, the gospel artiste believes that there are even greater things to come.