Andre Jebbinson, Staff Reporter

Dwayne Murphy - Contributed

The Greatest Love of All may mean many things to many people, but to Dwayne Murphy it was the song he first sang in public, at age six. Murphy's love for singing would grow over the following years, as well as his desire for spiritual things.

He did not see himself as an entertainer, but fate and divine intervention played a part after his friend and now fellow gospel artiste D.A. Jay introduced him to producer Dale Virgo. "I didn't plan it at all. God just worked it out that way," Murphy said.

He does not see it as 'buck up', though, but as destiny and the Lord's master plan for him. Although it was by chance, the very first moment Murphy first entered a recording studio he was sold on becoming a gospel artiste. Regular visits to the studio quickly became a habit for Murphy, as it was an avenue for the youngster to release stress and depression.

It has not, however, been smooth sailing. Murphy said many people have complimented him on his voice, but at the same time he has been criticised for his style. Murphy says his hip-hop mixed with R&B styles of singing is what the Lord wants him to do, and anything else would be disobedience to his calling. "We have to come up with a different strategy to win souls for Christ. I want to be able to minister anytime and anywhere," Murphy said.

Nightclub ministry

So even though Murphy has not the slightest clue what goes on in Asylum and other popular nightclubs, he would gladly take an opportunity to minister in one. He recently returned from his first international and biggest-ever event in Antigua, performing on a show that featured Fred Hammond and Radikal Prodigal.

His is currently lead singer on his church choir, as well as a praise and worship leader, and lead singer in the singing group The Gospel Sapphires. In 2003 Dwayne joined forces with rapper D.A. Jay and, subsequently, Dizzle Lab Productions. Murphy has performed at major shows, such as Genesis 2006, alongside Craig C, Fun in the Son and Rise 2 Christ. He has also ministered at gospel clubs, such as Prayz House and Club Christendom.

Murphy is featured on the Mainframe rhythm with the song You, done in collaboration with his labelmate Craig C, as well as the solo effort Be Saved. Murphy is also featured on the Roots Gospel Volume 3 compilation released by KatsJam Records with two tracks, Father All We Need is Love (produced by Dr. Dizzle) and Bye Bye, which is on the Spiritual War rhythm.

He is currently working on his debut album, which will be released during Easter 2007.