Hailing from Girdletree, Maryland (a small country town outside of Salisbury, MD) is a songwriter, singer, author, speaker, and preacher–by the name of Stephen Boyd. He was first introduced to us during the height of COVID when he shared his hit single “Heal the Land” with the world. Now, he is celebrating the release of his newest single, entitled “Wonder in My Soul.” We chatted with the gifted singer, and he shared his background, influences, and his message of hope.
Sherri: Please give us a little history about where you were born and how that has shaped your personality over the years.
Stephen: I was born in a small-town country town in Girdletree, Maryland (You read that right, Girdletree! lol). Initially, I used to be ashamed of my small country upbringing. However, as I’ve grown to see how mean and cruel the world can be, I’m thankful for how I was raised. Now, I do my best to teach the generation behind me some of the values I was taught.
Sherri: How instrumental have your parents been in your life–as it relates to Gospel music?
Stephen: On my mother’s side of the family, they were very musical. My grandparents had 12 children who formed the Wilson family singers. In those days, family groups used to go to different churches and sing for choir anniversaries. When I came along, most of my aunts and uncles were grown and starting their families, but between my mom and dad and three of my aunts who formed a group called the B.C.D Ensemble, we traveled EVERYWHERE to sing or play. For several years, I was classically trained under a woman by the name of Ms. Jackson. She was old school! She would take a small paddle and ‘tap’ your fingers if you played the wrong notes! lol! I played for church services and revivals and traveled with a workshop choir called the Interdenominational Mass Choir–led by a fiery choir director by the name of Dennis Stanley. My parents faithfully made sure every month we were at EVERY rehearsal.
Sherri: When did you realize you had a gift that should be shared with others?
Stephen: Probably since age 5. However, mostly, I had no choice! When you’re raised in a musical family, you’re either asked to sing or play! So, you are constantly sharing your gift with others!
Sherri: Why did you want to begin to explore it nationally?
Stephen: I’ve always wanted to share my gifts with the world. But as with everything, you must wait for God’s timing.
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Thank you for reading an excerpt of Sherri Johnson’s article on scoopusamedia.com. To read more of the article, “Stephen Boyd’s Wonder in My Soul!,” please subscribe to Scoop USA Media. Print subscriptions are $75.00 and online subscriptions (Print, Digital and Vizion) are $90. (52 weeks/1 year)