With such high aspirations, Sean Simmonds’ debut release, “True Story” (Xist Records/Alliant Music Group) will take him one step closer to fulfilling his dreams.

His first experience as a performer occurred in his hometown of Toronto at a shopping mall showcase when he was nine years old. After receiving rave reviews from the press, Sean knew that music was his calling. He continued to work on his singing and secured a spot in the JUNO award-winning Sharon Riley and Faith Chorale at the age of 15. During his six year tenure, Sean toured with the group and was even selected to sing behind James Brown in the box office hit, “Blues Brothers 2000” starring John Goodman and Dan Ackroyd. The soundtrack garnered a Grammy nomination.

Although Sean left the chorale to attend college, he never stopped his music career. He attended Oakwood College, the birthplace of artists such as Take 6, Brian McKnight and Virtue. While pursuing his business degree, he became one of the lead vocalists for the urban gospel group, Chapter 5. In 2002, “Create in Me” peaked at #7 on the “Bobby Jones Top 20 Countdown” and Chapter 5 was chosen to be co-presenters with Jermaine Dupri at the Stellar Awards.

In addition to his role as President of Xist Records and being the first artist released on the Alabama-based label, family is very important to Sean. He is a loving husband and proud father of two children, Damani (7 yrs. old) and Amari (2 yrs. old). He resides in Atlanta, Georgia and attends West End SDA Church. His mother also holds a special place in his heart. Sean says, “My mother has sickle cell anemia and it has affected our family in a major way. We are very thankful to God for keeping her through these years considering the life expectancy for someone with this disease.”

“True Story” is a reflection of Sean’s high and low points in life set to a smooth Urban Gospel/R&B soundtrack. The album’s credits resemble a Who’s Who list of writers and producers such as Kelvin Wooten (Anthony Hamilton, Raphael Saddiq, and Jill Scott), Montrel Darrett (Commissioned, Londa Larmond) and Sean Simmonds. The first single, “Won’t It Be,” was written by Hallerin Hilton Hill (Take 6, Fred Hammond).

Without being overly preachy, Sean reveals his struggles with his relationship with The Creator and provides a source of comfort to those walking in similar paths of life. Sean says that “Won’t It Be,” is a song of encouragement for the masses. The music video, which can be viewed on the XistRecords.com website, is a passionate warehouse-style live performance showcasing Sean’s ability to captivate his audience. He displays his passion about looking to the day when Jesus returns on a cloud and His followers ascend with Him into heaven for an eternal life free of pain and sorrow. Before its stateside release, the music video for “Won’t It Be” reached #1 on France’s Gospel charts and also charted throughout Europe.

“For Love” is dedicated to young women that have been neglected and look in all of the wrong places for security and affection. Sean notes, “I wrote this song because there are many women who find themselves going to extreme measures for acceptance.” Another hit, “Soul Glo” is a modern version of “This Little Light of Mine.” Sean says, “It’s saying to let people see your light despite the negative situations you face in order to help the world become a better place.”
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“True Story” ministers to the saved and the unsaved. It is a collection of songs that inspire, encourage, instruct and comfort people as they travel life’s journey. Sean says, “I pray that my music is a motivational tool for change.” By being a source of help to others in need through his music, there is no doubt that Sean will achieve his goal.