The Gospel in the Key of Country Crunk: Whosoever South Brings a New Sound to Christian Music

Whosoever South is bringing home-cooked goodness to the table with their sophomore album, "Come On In". Comprised of Rowdy, Sarah and Mike, all three were born and raised in the South - and each with many different musical influences growing up. Together, this trio serves up a delicious combination of hip-hop and some southern hospitality with an invitation to all. The group's humble beginnings and diverse backgrounds testify to the fact that God can indeed use all things.

Since the group's formation in 2008, the trio released three underground albums before making their worldwide debut in 2013 with their album, Goin' Home. With worldwide airplay, they are crossing county lines, city limits and oceans, breaking down barriers and impacting lives by sharing the truth that needs to be known. "We all have one thing in common," says Sarah. "We all need Jesus. Some folks just don't know it yet."

Partnering up with A-List producers, such as Asaf Fulks, Dirty Rice, and industry veteran KJ-52, Whosoever South is creating a sound like no other. Come On In is packed with traditional hip-hop 808's, kicks, hi-hats and snares combined with a backwoods flare of banjo, harmonica and dobro. "We was raised in the country, where a man's word is one of his most valuable possessions and hard work is a way of life," says Rowdy.

We are so honored to be able to catch up with Whosoever South for this exclusive Hallels' interview.

Hallels:  Thank you so much for doing this interview with us.  Tell us a little bit about yourself, how did the three of you start Whosoever South?  And what's the significance of your group's name "Whosoever South"? 

WS: Rowdy and Sarah, met in the seventh grade quickly becoming best friends, and marrying years later. Music has always been a big part of both of their lives, and that is also where they met Mike, while collaborating on a bit more secular music in the early 2ks. They lost touch with Mike for a few years, and took a break from making music. After some growing, and going through some trials and learning, someone shared with them the Good news, and once you know the love of God, you know it's too big to keep to yourself, you gotta share it. Rowdy went to check on Mike one day soon after that to find out Mike had been through some hard times himself, he talked with him and invited him to come to church. They all eventually started making music again after some more learning and growing, and this time with a message. The significance in "Whosoever South" -Whosoever, because that's who the gospel is for. -South, well that's just where we from y'all.

Hallels:  You have a very unique sound that is so refreshing to hear that is called "Country Crunk."  For our readers who may not be familiar with the term, can you explain to us your sound?

WS: Well, all three of us had many different musical influences growing up, this music has just grown into a combination of it all, seasoned with tones of bluegrass, hip hop, gospel, and country.

Hallels:  Congratulations on the release of your new album "Come On In," how is this different or the same as your previous albums?

WS: Different, with having a little more country flavor on this album. Our last album maybe had a bit more variety, as far as the different styles.

Hallels:  On this new record, you got to work with some very notable producers including KJ-52, Dirty Rice, Asaf Fulks and Andy Sheridan, what were some of the highlights in working with them?

WS: All these guys are very talented and it's always great to learn from and work with experienced musicians as well as industry professionals that are down to earth, good folks.

Hallels:  Often in hip hop music artists don't normally dig deep emotionally into their songs.  So, I was really moved with "Crying Out" and "War Going On," the two are just stellar pieces.  For our readers who may not be familiar with these two songs, can you tell us more about them?

WS: The truth is the truth. All too often these issues are just overlooked or ignored to avoid facing the sometimes harsh reality of things or just not wanting to hurt someone's feelings. Ignoring problems do not make them go away. We want people to be aware of what's going on, and that they can trust Christ no matter what their situation.

Hallels:  If you have to pick two of your favorite songs off the album, which would they be?  And why?

WS: So do we really have to? It's hard to choose because each song is unique in content. Come On In and Living Water would probably be my pick tho 

Hallels:  For our readers who would like to purchase "Come On In" or/and find out more about you, where can they go? 

Our website is www.whosoeversouth.com follow the links for iTunes , Amazon.com , etc.

Whosoever South
http://whosoeversouth.com/ 

 

 

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