What is it that draws you to Gospel music? Is it the desire of the performers to use the music as a ministry tool, the way that almost everyone involved – musicians or fans – are some way intertwined and closely connected, or even the tight, family harmony found in many of the groups? In the case of the excellent, newly-emerging group, Children of the Promise, I would say it is each one of these aspects that makes them such a phenomenal group. They truly represent the “next generation” of gospel music, and thankfully, it’s in good hands.
I first became aware of Children of the Promise while attending The North Georgia School of Gospel Music, a school in which they also were connected. The eldest son, Jacob Shaw, says his favorite part about singing gospel music is “encouraging people who need it most.” There is a real need for young musicians who have a desire to sing with purpose and be a light for Christ, and for nearly six years, Jacob has been accomplishing this through his musical abilities. His musical excellence is not limited solely to singing; he is also endeavoring to learn guitar. His interests outside of music include collecting John Wayne memorabilia and a fascination with history. Also, the family harmony of this group is another brilliant aspect that leads to their success in Gospel music, such as being voted as one of the Favorite New Artists. Jacob, who is the baritone singer of the group, is a key component in this. I am so thrilled that I have been given the opportunity to interview Jacob and learn a little more about him.
- How old are you, and when did you first start singing with your family?
I am 19. I was 13 when we first started singing.
- About how many times a year does your family sing?
Around 215 dates a year.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I like to watch movies with friends.
- What is something unique not many people know about you?
I collect knives as a hobby.
- What person in Southern Gospel music has had the greatest impact on your life?
Chris Allman
- What was one of your best moments on stage?
One of the best moments was singing at Singing in the Sun for the first time.
- Tell us a little bit about how your family got started singing.
We had made a CD for my great grandmother after our great grandfather passed, and so some of our family asked us to sing at our family reunion. After that, we started getting calls to come sing, and 6 years later here we are.
- Do you plan on continuing to sing with your family in the future, or do you want to pursue another career? If you could have another career, what would you do?
I do plan on continuing to sing with my family, but I also would like to have a career, hopefully something I can do while on the road.
- Where is your favorite place to travel and why?
My favorite place to travel is Alabama because we have a lot of friends there that like to come and be with us.
- What are three things that you could not live without?
I wouldn’t want to live without Dr. Pepper, Hibachi, and a shower.
- What are three words people would use to describe you?
Maybe quiet, patient, and hardworking.
- What is playing in your CD player/phone right now?
The Booth Brothers
- A favorite gospel group.
The Booth Brothers
- Favorite song.
“He Heals” by The Booth Brothers
- Favorite Bible verse.
1 Peter 1:7 – These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world.
More information on Jacob and Children of the Promise can be found on their website.
