Deleon Richards

It seemed like yesterday that 5-year-old Deleon Richards impacted the church world singing "Move on up the Mountain." Over twenty years later, Deleon is a seasoned veteran with 7 recordings to her credit.

Deleon started singing professionally at age five before 20,ooo at the Chicago Gospel festival. She performed for numerous political figures including former President Ronald Reagan. At 9 years of age she became the youngest person ever to be nominated for a Grammy award, dethroning Michael Jackson.

Deleon is now signed with Tommy Boy records, and she is more determined than ever to complete the vision God has placed on her heart. And her ideas and aspirations are definitely all grown up. DeLeon sparkles like a jewel when she sings and has a good head on her shoulders. She has Christ in her heart and a growing ministry. And after over two decades of sharing the stage with the likes of Shirley Caesar, the Winans and Kirk Franklin, she is ready embrace life at a higher level.

Her new album "Straight From The Heart" is a bright and sunny collection of contemporary songs that capture the spirit of this matured gospel veteran. With producers such as Jerry Peters, Percy Bady and bassist Wayman Tysdale in the credits, it is plain to see that Deleon is aiming to establish herself in the hearts of our youth.

On "Faith Is", both rhythm and synth tracks guide you over layers of Deleon’s versatile voice styles while she defines scriptural faith. In a similar way, "My Happiness" considers the joy that God consistently brings. Deleon’s signature tune "Move On Up The Mountain" has been remixed to deliver a head bobbing blend of rhythm and praise beats sure to move you. Deleon even sings a song to her new husband Gary Sheffield of the LA Dodgers baseball team. The CD ends on a more traditional note with the Gaither’s tune "Because He Lives".

With the obvious mix of talents and looks, Deleon could have easily found success in the secular industry. Yet she choose to follow her heart and remain true t her spiritual roots. And we can see her sincerity and honesty as she draws us in to her praise to God.