“Great Is Thy Faithfulness”
Donnell Russell
The Rite Note Ent. (release date: July 18, 2025)
By Robert M. Marovich
The title is the only part of the old hymn that Donnell Russell borrows. This “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” written by Aaliyah Franklin, starts out soft and sweet—almost too softly in the first few seconds—but builds to a robust apex and ends with a traditional-sounding vamp.
Singer Russell receives superb support throughout from Jamar Esaw and Triad:4Christ. By the vamp, Russell is so overcome by the spirit that he defaults to preacher’s breath to declare the truth of God’s faithfulness. A fine blend of churchy and contemporary.
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.