Charles & Taylor
In many ways, Charles and Taylor are typical teenagers. Yet, there is something special about this brother-sister gospel duo that sets them apart. Not only are the two exceptional singers at only 15 and 13 years old, they are exceptional individuals who love the Lord and are passionate about sharing their personal testimonies with the world.
… I have given them eternal life… and none can pluck them out of my hand… John 10:28
Before Charles was born, his life was threatened when he breathed in amniotic fluid. As the doctors worked quickly to save him they heard baby Charles begin to cry while still in the womb. Taylor’s birth was nothing short of a miracle as well when she was born one month premature with the umbilical cord wrapped tightly around her neck. Through this, Charles and Taylor have quickly come to understand that God does indeed have a purpose and plan for your life and nothing the enemy does can prevent it, no matter how hard he might try.
“God has called us to speak to everyone regardless of age and color,” Charles says, “Our music is for the young and the old, the believers and unbelievers. God has given us our talents and testimonies so that we can minister to everyone we meet.”
Musical beginnings…
Being raised in the church not only gave Charles and Taylor a musical outlet through the choir and the praise team, but also provided the prayer and support that allowed their ministry to blossom at such a young age. When Charles was only 6 and Taylor only 4, they began a local nursing home ministry that lasted more than three years.
Beyond their church and nursing home ministry, their performances include the National Anthem spots at the Atlanta Braves baseball and Atlanta Hawks basketball games, plus opening for artists such as Yolanda Adams, Vickie Winans, The Temptations and Mary Mary.
“The community around us has always been encouraging and we’ve been blessed with so many opportunities to perform with people we truly admire,” Taylor says.
Most recently, they have signed with the Integrity Gospel label and will release their self-titled debut, Charles & Taylor, in July of 2005. They also have been asked to be the new spokespeople for World Vision, giving a young face to the organization that will, in turn, help excite young people about missions.
Lessons learned…
In their young music careers they have learned that ministry, though rewarding, is hard work. They are driven by their love for music, but even more so by their desire to be a positive influence to their peers -- changing a generation through spreading the gospel and sharing their testimonies.
Currently…
Charles and Taylor both attend a performing arts school where Charles will be going into the 11th grade and Taylor will be in the 8th grade. Taylor is an honors student and among the top five in her class. She was recently awarded the “Hank Aaron Chasing Your Dream” award. |
