Duawne Starling

When you first meet Duawne Starling, you may be taken by his powerful presence, but moments later you will see something below the surface; a sincere, insightful, passionate person. His genuine zeal for life and his mission to use his gifts for God are compelling.



Duawne's resume is virtually a who's who in music. He has worked with artists such as Kirk Franklin, Donnie McClurkin, Be Be and Ce Ce Winans, Fred Hammond, Yolanda Adams, Nicole C. Mullen, Micheal W. Smith, Newsboys, Twila Paris, Sandy Patti, Dolly Parton, Michael McDonald, Kelly Price, Christopher Williams and countless others. After distinguishing himself as one of the top supporting vocalists in the music industry, it was evident that it was time for him to launch his solo career.



"I worked as a background artist for ten years before stepping forward as a soloist. I had been vocally ready for years but when I assessed where I was vocally and compared it to where I was spiritually, the two did not measure up. It is important that I be mature in all areas, because the last thing this world needs is just another singer."



Now, five years later, Duawne has released his debut self-titled CD and is currently working on his sophomore CD. Not only does Duawne have the vocal schooling of years in the studio and on the road, he has also earned a Masters of Arts in Religious Studies from Howard University School of Divinity, a convincing combination. "I needed a sense of balance - to increase my biblical knowledge and the capacity to speak into the lives of others as well as minister in song."



"While doing a concert with Donnie McClurkin, I remember praying for a young man responding to the altar call. When I saw him get a breakthrough it was then that I realized I was called to something far greater than just singing. I was changed that night and my heart was transformed into that of a minister."



Duawne's music shares the triumphs and trials of his journey through life. His simplistically profound lyrics impact audiences with their unprecedented honesty. My gift is God's tool. In my writing I always speak from the place of truth. We are all intrinsically connected so I know that others will relate to what I have experienced. My purpose is to enlighten, encourage and empower the listener."



Duawne's journey began in Petersburg, Virginia where he lived until attending boarding school at age 13. "As a child, my mother had the greatest influence on me. She was the one who brought Christ into our home and I don't know where I would be had she not. I grew up listening to traditional Gospel, lot's of Mahalia Jackson (my mother's favorite), my dad's quartet, and a little Pop radio whenever my mom wasn't listening. After my dad died of cancer when I was seven, music became my freedom from reality."



Ultimately, Duawne describes himself as a "simple kind of man" and has one goal. "I just want to be all that I am intended.a man of honor, a loving husband, a devoted father, and an uncompromising minister of the gospel."



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