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Gospel singer releases CD

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By SARAH ROTHWELL WHITMAN

srothwell@tampatrib.com

Published: June 24, 2009

Music is Kaci Stewart's passion. As the worship leader at north Tampa's City Life Church, she lifts her voice to inspire a congregation. Now, with the release of her debut album, "You Are God," Stewart, 32, hopes to reach an even wider audience.

What led you to take the leap and record an album?

I've had this dream since I was 5 years old, but it was always just a dream in my heart. I didn't tell many people about it. The timing was never right.

Last year, a man named David Garcia came to church one week, and after service he stopped me. He said he was a music producer and asked if I ever thought about recording. It went from there.

Describe the album's sound.

Well, it's a little bit gospel but it also has a rock feel to it. There's a lot of guitar. David and I wrote all the songs, so they are all from the heart.

Had you written before?

No, this was my first experience writing. I'd be in the car and a lyric would just come into my heart. I'd turn the car around, drive to the church and go the piano.

What was it like holding the finished album in your hand?

I was at home when the first box of CDs arrived. I jumped up and down. I started crying. The dream had become a reality. I put the CD on in the living room. The kids, my husband and I danced around the living room. I was so thankful, so grateful.

You dedicated the album to your father. How did he inspire you?

He passed away a few years ago. He always believed in me. He encouraged my dream. It was hard going through the recording process without him. I had to rely on my heavenly father, and he was always there to guide me, to speak life over the project.

What is your hope for the album?

I hope others are touched and encouraged. I hope God speaks to them through the music. Music is such a powerful tool. It can lift us up when we're struggling with the trials of everyday life.

Do you plan on performing live shows?

Yes. I'll be opening up for Natalie Grant at a show in Kentucky in June. Then, in July, I'm performing at the Juda Music Conference in Orlando.

Now that your dream has been realized, what is next on the horizon?

I'm already thinking about the next album. Really, I am just so humbled to have made the first one. God's timing is perfect.

"You Are God" is available online at www.kacistewart.tv.

Kaci Stewart leads worship at 9 and 10:30 a.m. Sundays at City Life Church, 10948 N. Central Ave. For information about the church, call (813) 933-3991.

Sarah Rothwell Whitman can be reached at srothwell @tampatrib.com.

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