Calling it Quits: Montell Jordan Leaving R&B Music for Ministry

By Jawn Murray on Nov 30th 2010 10:10AM 
Filed under: Music, Gospel

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Singer Montell Jordan is giving up mainstream music to work in music ministry.

Best known for his R&B smash 'This is How We Do It,' the 41-year-old vocalist recently announced he is retiring from R&B to become the Worship Pastor at the World Victory Church in Norcross, Ga.

"It's just been an amazing career. And it has been great," Jordan posted on his Twitter page via@MontellJordan. "But it's a calling that's probably been with me all my life since I was a child. And I've known it. A lot of people in the business know it and have the same calling but that leap of faith is difficult."

The Los Angeles-bred artist, who as a songwriter has penned tunes for Whitney Houston, Sisqo,Deborah Cox and Lil' Mo, also thanked a lot of people for contributing to his career.

"I also would especially like to thank the countless fans I have met throughout the last 17 years all over the world for your support. I additionally would like to thank radio, retail, and the talented musicians, songwriters, producers. ... I want to thank the original Def Jam staff for our many great years and success we shared together," he wrote.

Jordan acknowledged that he's had a call to ministry for many years, but surrendering to what he believes is God's will for his life is "a leap" he finally had to take.

"I often have spoken of my Christian belief and faith throughout my R&B career, yet this is my official retirement letter," he explained. "I have completely dedicated my life to the service of Christ Jesus, my Lord and Savior."

In addition to working as the worship leader at World Victory Church, the singer and his wife, Kristin, will continue to work in the church's marriage ministry, teaching a course called "Making Your Marriage aMasterpiece," which the singer called "gratifying."

Jordan, who starred in the movie 'The Fighting Temptations,' released seven CDs during his career, including 'Let it Rain' on Oct. 21, 2008.

Earlier this year, he released a single called 'Friends, Liars & Haters' that was to be featured on a CD titled 'F.L.H (Friends, Liars & Haters).' It's unlikely that the CD will be released now.

"It is my desire that my life and future music will reflect my Father in heaven and that those who have known me [through] R&B music will now be introduced to a great, loving and wonderful God," he concluded.