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Singer, songwriter, ordained evangelist, author and motivational speaker are just some of the titles that adorn Kevin Downswell, and he wears them well. But he really is not about titles. The internationally acclaimed gospel artiste and CEO of Downswell Records is laser-focused on service. His Realignment initiative, for example, gives attention to the needs of children who are abandoned by their families and are in the hands of the state. Downswell also sees it as his duty – and one he enjoys – to mentor young and promising individuals with a heart after God.
Downswell is “a worshipper with a powerful, resonating message,” one that has remained steadfast from the moment he won the 2003 Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) Jamaica Gospel Song Competition with Praise to now. His stated desire was “to touch lives,” and he has been doing that through his songs and ministry. In many circles, mention the name Kevin Downswell and someone is sure to start singing or humming You Make Me Stronger, Close to You, Carry Me, or If It’s Not You. He has shared the stage with the likes of Bishop T.D. Jakes, Pastor Donnie McClurkin, Kirk Franklin, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Maverick City and many others.
Downswell has earned many accolades for his work in the gospel ministry, and this year he was conferred with the Order of Distinction in the rank of officer for his contribution to gospel music locally and internationally.
When Hurricane Melissa struck on October 28, Downswell quickly assembled a group of friends from the gospel arena and made their way to the affected areas in the west to deliver care packages, words of comfort and uplifting prayers to those in need.
This week, 5 Questions With ... puts the spotlight on Kevin Downswell.
1 What lessons have you learned from being on the ground since the hurricane passed?
Walking through these communities has changed me. I have seen loss up close, but I have also seen strength that humbles you. Houses flattened, roads washed out, yet people still offering a smile, still praying, still hoping. The biggest lesson is that resilience is real in Jamaica. When you touch someone’s hand, listen to their story, pray with them, you realise people do not survive because life is easy, they survive because God keeps breathing courage into them. It’s a reminder that ministry must always go beyond a microphone, it must meet people where they are.
2 Has this experience inspired new music?
Absolutely. Every trip to the west has poured something new into my spirit. I have been driving home with lyrics in my head and melodies rising out of the pain I’ve witnessed. Moments like these pull you back to the heart of why you sing in the first place. So yes, new music is coming, and it’s inspired by the voice of a people who refuse to be broken.
3 What is your take on the idea that “God is punishing Jamaica through Hurricane Melissa”?
I do not believe that. Jamaica is not under punishment. We live in a world where storms, earthquakes, and disasters are part of a fallen creation. Jesus Himself said the rain falls on the just and the unjust. What I have seen on the ground is not punishment, it is compassion, because even in the middle of the devastation, God kept lives. I lost my father’s house, yet my father is alive. That is mercy. Instead of pushing fear, we should be pointing people to hope, to faith, to rebuilding with God’s strength.
4 How important is it for you to be at the Hurricane Relief Concert at UBS Arena, NY next month?
It matters deeply to me. When Jamaica hurts, wherever I am in the world, my heart is still home. Being at UBS Arena is another way to serve. Every ticket sold helps a family rebuild, helps a community rise again. My message to patrons is simple: your support is not just charity, it is partnership. When you show up, you help someone stand back on their feet. Come with an open heart and let us lift Jamaica together.
5 Has 2025 been a fruitful year and what have been some high points?
This year has stretched me, shaped me, and blessed me. The release of my 90-day devotional called Midnight to Victory, which is one of Amazon’s Best Seller ... the Midnight to Victory movement, then came the Bless Me movement that has had such a huge impact. New music, international stages, and the unity I have seen through this relief work, have all been major highlights. I have watched God open doors I did not even knock on. It has been a year of growth, deeper purpose, and fresh vision.
BRAWTA
What would people be surprised to know about Kevin Downswell?
People might be surprised to know how simple I am at heart. I love quiet spaces, long drives, helping people without any cameras, and reasoning with elders in the community. I have a love for people ... the depth of which not even I understand. I laugh a lot, even in tough seasons, I find something to laugh about. It keeps me grounded and grateful.
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