“It Is Well”
Monica Lisa Stevenson
Blacksmoke Music Worldwide (release date: April 28, 2023)

By Robert M. Marovich

To a finger-popping rhythm and a muscular accompaniment that feels inspired by Muscle Shoals—courtesy of husband and producer Derrick Stevenson—Monica Lisa Stevenson gushes gratitude because everything is well with her soul.

Her vocals are sonorous but smooth and conversational. Until the vamp, that is, when she lets loose a gospel chuckle and begins a righteously bluesy explanation of why her soul is rested. One thing about MLS: she knows how to make a song contemporary while still keeping its roots planted firmly in the church.

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Written by : Bob Marovich

Bob Marovich is a gospel music historian, author, and radio host. Founder of Journal of Gospel Music blog (formally The Black Gospel Blog) and producer of the Gospel Memories Radio Show.