Is it possible to sing on big stages with legendary artists like The Clark Sisters - yet have equal respect for the work that very few people will see? Worship leader, minister, vocalist and author Kelli Kinney Brownlee would say the answer is yes - and she has proven it by navigating her roles as a background vocalist and a leader in ministry with equal passion and dedication. Starting from her early days growing up in a small town in West Virginia, the priority of ministry and authentic worship was ingrained in Kelli through her experiences as a young vocalist and worship leader, but she didn’t see the full potential of her gift until a stop in Detroit altered the course of her life. Having spent years as a professional background vocalist with Dorinda Clark-Cole, Deitrick Haddon, Shana Wilson, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, and countless other artists in the gospel music circle, she has seen what it takes to remain a trusted and respected part of an industry-leading musical team that demands excellence. However, her heart for ministry was not crowded out by her inclusion in these tight-knit communities of Grammy and Stellar winning artists - instead, she finds just as much fulfillment and joy using her gifts to equip and encourage those she was called to serve at the local level. In this heart-felt and eye-opening interview, Kelli reveals: The foundational characteristics of ministry she learned from her small-town beginnings How her original plan to move to LA was redirected and led her to meeting and working with Dorinda Clark-Cole Her experiences with singing with the Clark Sisters and how the relationship between artist and background vocalist develops. The importance of knowing your role as a support for the artist - especially in practicing discretion and exercising professionalism Why being on stage can’t be the only place where your gifts in ministry are used. How she intentionally prioritizes her family and ministry responsibilities We’ve love to hear your thoughts about this episode… Tap HERE to send us a text! Support the show NEW DEVOTIONAL ON YOUVERSION! Would you like to understand God's creative process and apply it to your life? Check out our new YouVersion Bible reading plan here! NEW "DISCOVER YOUR CREATIVE PERSONALITY" QUIZ! We've developed this quiz to help you diagnose and discover where you currently stand in your journey as a faith-focused artist. You'll find out which of the 5 Christian Creative Personalities you're currently operating in and how to improve on your strengths and get help with your weaknesses. Take the 5- minute quiz HERE PODCAST MERCH Get God and Gigs themed gear, clothing and accessories HERE! GOT VALUE FROM THIS PODCAST? Exchange VALUE 4 VALUE! You can share: TIME: Send this episode to someone who you know would enjoy it TALENT: Email your art or music to add to our community to allen@godandgigs.com TREASURE: Tap HERE to pick an amount to support the podcast monthly, OR: Get a modern podcast app that allows you support us IN REAL TIME by sending us value digitally! Get a new podcast app that supports these new features HERE.