Eric Kinley Lee, Jr. hails from Clinton, North Carolina. He is a man madly in love with Jesus who has dedicated his life to worship. While on a video call with Eric he expressed his love towards Jesus and his desire to please him in every area of his life. As a worshiper I was impressed and encouraged by his passion to lead worship as he continues to grow in his relationship with Him.
When was the first moment that you had a chance to sing in public?
My mother noticed a break in the service at church and told them to let me sing. I was about 4 years old and I sang, “The Center of my Joy.” I had my eyes closed the entire time, and when I opened them, people were clapping and crying. I was startled but it felt good.
At what age did you realize that you could sing and began to take it seriously?
I remember being 13 years old and was happy to be around great singers at my church. I embraced the choir sound and enjoyed singing songs of those I admired such as Hezekiah Walker and The Love Fellowship Choir and O’landa Draper and the Associates.
Where do you serve and in what capacity?
Abundant Life Christian Cathedral COGIC where Bishop Stenneth E. Powell, Sr. is Pastor. I serve as worship leader, and I am an ordained Elder.
What does worship mean to you and how do you express your worship as a leader?
Worship is a lifestyle, and I express it by realizing that it is a melting pot of charismatic and authentic heart-felt reverence to God. We take CCM, Hill Song, and other genres and put our own twist on them to be more effective in our house of worship. As many churches in the beginning, we didn’t know much about worship. But after listening and studying God’s Word, we acted out on how He described it. Spirit and Truth; the inner man (Holy Spirit) and the Word of God.
Share more about worship and its effect on the congregation.
Well, I believe worship leaders are set for a specific house. They must have a prayer life and be a student of the Word of God. These things, when applied correctly and consistently, will affect the congregation immensely. Worship encourages a closer relationship with Jesus.
What is the one thing that motivates you to stay focused as a worship leader?
I’m reminded of my father who was my first vocal teacher who said, “Whenever you sing people should never leave singing your praises, they should always leave singing God’s praises.”
What is the one group you listen to in your car more than anyone else?
Myron Butler and Levi. His humility and sincerity are felt in his music. His approach to the sound and vocal quality of his singers is just different. The blend, tone, and dynamics are amazing. If you have ever seen Myron Butler minister you will notice he doesn’t sing runs. He allows the lyrics to minister.
What is the difference between a worship leader and a worship artist?
A worship leader demonstrates worship before the congregation in church and has learned how to get out of the way which creates the atmosphere for worship. A worship artist has influence when they go on stage based on who they are as a recording artist. People are prone to follow them because of this. There are anointed worship artists who are awesome at what they do. There are minor differences, however they both are essentially the same in that they both lead people into the presence of God.
What are your other interests and what keeps you grounded?
I am an artsy guy and love going to the museum. I am also into fashion and love to dress. Clothes make me feel a certain way that gives me confidence.
Has there been major obstacles in your life that made you want to quit?
My biggest challenge was my father’s passing. He was my hero and taught me much of what I know about music. There was a void in my life because he wasn’t there playing the piano and the two us would sing together for hours. I miss him so! I honor him today by being the best I can be as I aim to keep his legacy alive.
Talk to us about your family life.
I am married to the beautiful Susan Lee who is a vocalist, and a good one I might add. She is from a musical family as well and we click in that way. I come from a close-knit family. I am most definitely a mama’s boy. She is like my best friend; my mom cracks me up all the time. Mama can really sing, a former member of the “The Sensational Gospel Singers.”
Have you released any worship projects?
My first single, “More of You” captures the essence of Eric Lee as a worshiper and artist. I also released another song entitled, “King of the World” where I express my worship for Jesus using another genre that express a more creative side. I am currently working on an EP project to be released later this year.
How can our readers listen to your music?
You can go to any musical digital outlet Apple Music, Google Play, and YouTube.
What is your ultimate goal or vision pertaining to your ministry?
To be able to reach the masses, bring down denominational boundaries, and cross over allowing my music to encourage and evangelize the world.
Do you have a word of encouragement to someone who desires to be a worship leader over a ministry?
If I could offer a word of encouragement, I would say build your confidence and sound. Study credible and anointed worship leaders. It can be someone local or a recording artist who you may never meet but can glean important ideas. Finally, to study the Word and honor God by being an example to your team and others at all costs.
Eric Kinley Lee, Jr. is an example of who you can become in Christ when you humble yourself before Him. As a worshiper I am encouraged to see someone dedicate their life to the service of the King. Eric is on a mission to encourage and inspire many to worship Jesus in Spirit and in Truth.
Dr. George Ward, DSM is an experienced Pastor of Worship, Worship Leader, and Choir Master. He has served in several capacities at various churches while conducting Music and Worship Conferences. George is a vocal instructor/coach and former talk show host on Spirit and Truth.
