Maverick City Music — History and Songs

History and Sound

Maverick City Music grew out of songwriting sessions organized by Jonathan Jay and Tony Brown.

In the team’s recordings, gospel vocals blend with the form of a contemporary worship song. In “Promises,” the interplay between the voices of Joe L. Barnes and Naomi Raine is especially noticeable. The album “Old Church Basement,” created with Elevation Worship, develops the same approach with a larger lineup. It features “Jireh” and “Wait on You,” both included in the selection below.

Albums and Recordings

The early album “Maverick City Vol. 3 Part 1” includes “Promises” and “Man of Your Word.” These recordings show how the singers pass the lead vocal from one to another. On “Kingdom Book One,” recorded with Kirk Franklin, the group’s gospel side became even more pronounced. Some of the material was recorded in a correctional facility, and the voices of those present became part of the very fabric of the performance. This helps explain why singing together is so important to the group’s sound.