Switching music genres is a risky move in the music industry that rarely pays off, but with the right fans and the right voice, a successful transition is possible. Tori Kelly proved this with the release of her second album on Sept. 14, 2018. Kelly’s first album embodied a classic pop debut album with her own songs that showed off her amazing vocal ability. With her sophomore album, Kelly decided to pursue music that she grew up listening to. So she released “Hiding Place”, a full-length gospel album. After the release, the album reached the top of the gospel charts and multiple songs off of the album reached success in gospel charts as well.  

What was supposed to be one gospel song for her second album turned into a full gospel album. Kelly worked with producer Kirk Franklin, a gospel music legend with multiple Grammy wins, on “Hiding Place” and “Never Alone”. One of the songs on the album features Franklin. The album is not an ordinary gospel sound, there are influences of pop and R&B heard throughout. It gives a modern twist to gospel music that attracts a younger audience. Kelly also wows with her incredible vocal talent that will blow anyone away. Her vocal abilities are demonstrated in every song on the album, especially “Soul’s  Anthem (It is Well)” which is acapella with simply Kelly’s voice and a choir to harmonize.

Kelly’s sophomore album is a vocal beauty that is inspirational with a modern feel. It was an amazing album to listen to on a sunny day and I highly recommend giving Kelly’s “Hiding Place” the time of day. It is phenomenal.