Artist Spotlight: Lynette White

Lynette White may have been born in the Bronx and raised in Southern California, but the Caribbean sun burns brightly in her voice. While the fetching, dreadlocked Lynette — born to Caribbean parents — may be better known for her secular work, her gospel debut CD I Will Lift My Voice blends R&B sultriness and island rhythms with inspirational lyrics to create a distinctive and altogether fresh sound in gospel music.

If nothing else, you have to hear this CD to experience one of the only – if not the only – reggae-flavored adaptations of Albert Hay Malotte’s “Lord’s Prayer” on record, as well as an equally intriguing rhythmic version of “Blessed Assurance.” Believe it or not, the island treatment works well on both songs, although her rock steady “My Tribute” is superior to both.

By far the best track on the eight-song project, however, is “Prime Time.” This song has a memorable, melodic hook, and hearkens musically back to White’s days contributing vocals to the soundtrack of NBC’s “Smart Guy” as well as motion pictures such as Fear, The Lion King, and Romy and Michelle’s High School Reunion.

I Will Lift My Voice is described as “an anointed fusion of reggae, neo-soul, R&B, and just plain ol’ gospel music.” That says it all. Lynette White is clearly deserving of major label attention.

The CD is available on-line at Lynette’s website.