Christopher J. Watkins, a noted composer, artist, and director in the Gospel genre, hails from St. Louis, Missouri. His musical journey began in his early teens, playing the piano and organ at church under the guidance of his mother, Anita Watkins-Stevens, a highly respected music director and composer. This early exposure to music ministry laid the foundation for Christopher's enduring passion and his emergence as a revered creative and ministry leader.
His anointed pen has yielded many heartfelt songs, including "Because of the Blood," "God Is Truly Amazing," and "No One Like You." These popular compositions have been recorded on albums by Stellar Award, and Grammy-nominated artist Ricky Dillard, The Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship Super Mass Choir, Grammy-nominated Bishop Eddie Long, and the New Birth Total Praise Choir, and are ministered in churches nationwide on Sundays.
Christopher and best friend Kyle Kelley formed Chris and Kyle with True Spirit and released their debut CD, COMIN' OUT FROM UNDER (Ashanti Music Group/Crystal Rose Records). Their sophomore release, HEAL ME (True Heart/Emtro Gospel), debuted at #22 on the Billboard Gospel Charts. HEAL ME boasted the hit single "No One Like You," featuring
Dr. Judith McAllister, and garnered two Rhythm of Gospel Awards. Chris and Kyle with True Spirit have ministered with Donald Lawrence, Byron Cage, Darwin Hobbs, Israel and New Breed, Trace Adkins, The Clark Sisters, Patti LaBelle,
Tye Tibbett, Joyce Meyers, Michael McDonald, and award-winning actress Jenifer Lewis.
Christopher's musical influence extends beyond his compositions. He has written for and worked with several noted artists, including Bebe Winans, Dexter Walker, Full Gospel Baptist Fellowship, Earl Bynum, Rudolph McKissick, Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, The Hampton's Ministers Conference, The Gospel Music Workshop of America, GMWA, National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses (NCGCC), and Edwin Hawkins Music and Arts Seminar. His collaborations are a testament to his versatility and the potential for future exciting projects.
Christopher has held various leadership roles in music ministry and education. He has served as the National Music Director of the YYA Alumni Chorale of the National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses, also known as The Dorsey Convention, the guest director for the Youth Rally, and Co-Music Director for the Christian Education Pre-Musical of the National Baptist Congress.
Christopher's journey in the music industry continues to evolve. He is the Director of Worship and Arts of the New Faith Church in Houston, TX. He is the Co-Director of the Performance Division and the newly elected 1st Vice President of the National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses. His future is promising, with plans to release his debut solo album, MOMENTS, in 2024, which features the hit single "Coming My Way" featuring Jason Clayborn. His commitment to writing and producing music for other artists and ministries ensures that his influence will continue to grow.
