Butler, a veteran of the gospel and urban music recording scene, just released his 11th album, "The Tribute, Phase I," a collection of gospel and rhythm and blues originals and reworks of songs originally performed by artists who most inspired his own music career. Butler, 40, rounded with a speckled beard and glasses, said performing other artists' songs, like Eric Clapton's "Tears in Heaven" and Yolanda Adams' "Open My Heart"--both on this album-is an announcement that he wants to take his career to a higher level.
Butler, who grew up surrounded by music in New Orleans, is a cousin of legendary soul singer Jerry Butler. He also has a family connection to the long-lasting gospel group The Zion Harmonizers & very close ties with The Dixie Hummingbirds. This husband and father of two girls started singing at age 5 in his family's church, where his father would stand him on a chair in the middle of the choir so the congregation could see the young singer. At 16, he started preaching and, a year after that, recorded his first record. His album entitled: So Real, sold 60,000 copies without backing from a major record label, Butler said. By utilizing the Web, television-his church services are aired on leased access channels throughout Northern Virginia-and touring military bases up and down the the U.S., will allow him to become the minister he’s always longed to be.
Butler, who is solely tied to inspirational music, gave a sampling of his voice. He scatted a softer jazz version of one of the songs on his new album. "It's in me," he said about his music. "I'm just trying to become a voice of assurance and integrity in the christian community." To learn more about John Butler's latest CD releases, see http://www.theminister.org . Out of all that he has accomplished and plans to accomplish “THE MINISTER” John Butler wants us to know that he is a born again child of God.
Rev. John A. Butler
“THE MINISTER” John Butler P.O. Box 1622 Springfield, Virginia 22151 Office: 571-232-7893 Bookings: 301-934-2389 Website: http://www.theminister.org Email:
