Grammy Award-winning artist and former member of the chart-topping group Maverick City Music and Bethel Music Collective, Dante Bowe has released a new self-titled album - 'Dante Bowe'
Recall Dante Bowe, receiving criticism for the questionable shirt he wore on one of his Instagram posts at an event sponsored by Vogue Magazine. The shirt depicted the bare chest of a man, including part of his groin. Many comments questioned Bowe’s choice of attire.
Shortly after, on September 26, 2022, Maverick City Music announced via a statement published on Instagram that they will be pausing their professional relationship with Dante Bowe, citing behaviour that was inconsistent with their core values and beliefs, the nature of which was not specified. Bowe apologised for his behaviour following the band's decision to cut ties with him and released a statement stating that he would be taking a break from social media and expressed his commitment to God's purpose for his life.
Earlier this year Dante Bowe opened up about his split from Maverick City Music, saying the situation improved his relationship with God.
In an interview with Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), he stated,
"I feel healthier than ever. Better than ever. Brighter than ever. Feel closer to God."
He also said on a social media post,
"Throughout this process, I have received wise counsel which influenced my decision to take a step back and reflect about my actions so that I may commit to living in the purpose God has for my life,”
He further told CBN,
"I just feel like I never shut the door on God. I kept the door wide open because I need him more in those seasons than ever I need him. You know when I'm just on the mountaintop. You know what I mean? I always need him, but I just think I ran to him, you know, faster,"
Bowe has now started his own record label called True Music, under which he released his new album.
"This album is based on a true story - the love, the faith, and everything in between. I hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed creating!"
Being a self-titled album, it's no surprise that it's packed with self, and sometimes 'self' falls, fails, and experiences confusion. Self focuses more on feelings than facts. While we can't completely call this a gospel album, Bowe features Ada Ehi and Jekalyn Carr. He also features Anthony B, Flavour, and VIC MENSA, artists who are controversial in their own rights. A blend of catchy hooks, intricate instrumentation, and Bowe's signature soulful sound; this album showcases his ability to create music that resonates with audiences on a deep level, although, with each track, it's clear that the audience may no longer necessarily be Christian.
On the fourth track 'Free' he addresses what he faced in the Christian community in late 2022, but not from the grace angle one would expect.
He said in an Instagram post,
"That's who I am. That's why I named it Dante Bowe, that's why I named it you know, after me because it's just who I am, what I've been through, and what I'm going through now. And I think if you can hear it with the pure heart, you'll love the vulnerability and the honesty of the record. And I feel like when you're telling the truth, you can't argue with the truth. This album is full of that."
While his expertise and skill shine through every aspect of this album, one thing is clear, Dante Bowe is on a journey, and one can only pray it leads him to God.
Listen at your own discretion.
Comments