Yunēk (pronounced unique) is more than just a name for the Houston based songstress known for her soft yet soulful tone. To be unique is to be without equal; incomparable; matchless. This exemplifies the musical creativity that exudes from Jessica Joseph, aka Yunēk. She is fulfilling her purpose with a distinguishable approach to bringing the message of Christianity to the masses.
Namely Unique: “God spoke through a prophetess one day when I visited a church. I was told that I was the black sheep and had been set apart. I was unique and would reach generations through music. When it came time for me to step into ministry, I remembered what God said through the prophetess and the word “unique” pierced my memory…so that is the name I gave myself. Being that my name was going to be unique, I couldn’t spell it the ordinary way. I found a YUNEK way to spell it.”
Still buzzing from the success of her debut album EXODUS – Three:Seventeen which included the hit single, “Got Fruit” and the dance infused music video for the single, “Straddle the Fence”, Yunēk is determined and focused to intercede on behalf of the believer who may have lost their way.
After a brief hiatus from the mainstream gospel scene, Yunēk resurfaces with a strong message of hope, faith, and change with her sophomore album, DETOUR set for release in 2011. The time between albums has been a time of perfecting her gift. It’s been a time of development – gaining confidence to step outside of her comfort zone vocally, articulating more profound lyrics and diversely expanding her musicality. “I did many things different with this project including working with different producers and writers,” says Yunek. “I have a positive outlook more so than before because I’m confident of the direction God has taken this necessary change.”
DETOUR is a poignant collection of messages scripted to melody that Yunēk delivers with strength and depth.
Lyrically Unique: “For the most part, music inspires me to write lyrics. However, when writing for this album, God gave me lyrics to several songs before the music was created. Lyric without music was foreign to me, but I truly believe these are some of the strongest and most powerful songs on the album. I worked with songwriters on this project, which is something I’ve never done. I’m thankful for the collaborations because it was a growing experience and a stretch for me to sing lyrics I did not write.”
A DETOUR by definition is “A deviation from a direct course or the usual procedure.” With this album Yunēk encourages listeners to stop and asses the power of change and the freedom faith brings.
Her new single “Will Not Rest” delivers that encouragement. “This heartfelt ballad speaks about the unyielding goal of getting back to that initial place of comfort in God’s presence. This song is a cry out for restoration and oneness with the Father,” explains Yunēk. “It’s about racing back to the place where you first felt His love.”
A Unique Experience: “I want listeners to be Restored, Renewed and Revived after listening to DETOUR. This album will minister to those who are on a pilgrimage with God, may have gone through hell or experiencing confusion in their life, but yet they still pursue Him. I want the listener to feel restless and ready to fight for what God has for them. My purpose is to empower, encourage, enlighten, edify and entertain anyone who will listen.”
“Ready to Fight” is an anthem of declaration emphasizing that you no longer have to allow the stresses and issues of life affect control your life if you remain focused on the goal of staying embedded in Him. “Love is Amazing” is a feel good song with Yunēk’s signature head bobbing vibe. Rounding out the album is “The Truth” a derivative cover of the melodic song by India Arie, one of Yunēk’s major artistic influences; and “You’re All I Need” a solid cross-blend of Contemporary Christian and Contemporary Gospel that emphasizes the simple fact that Jesus is all you need.
Raised in the church where her talent was identified at age 5, it was in her late teen years that Yunēk focused and professionally prepared for God’s work by studying Audio Engineering and learning how to create music beyond the concept in her head. Yunēk was recognized by the Houston Chronicle as one of the most talented female audio engineers in the music business.
Some of Yunēk’s accomplishments include her most recent music and missions tour in the United Kingdom, a Youth and Young Adult Leadership Tour (branded Shake Em’ Up), Gospel Music Chanel Music Video of the Year Nomination, semi-finalist for style, creativity, and lyrics at The Gospel Dream Showcase and noted performances at the annual Texas Holy Hip Hop Achievement Awards and Spiritual Encounter Youth Conference. Yunēk has shared the stage with many including Deitrick and Damita Haddon, Eric Benet, the late Teena Marie, Marvin Sapp, Canton Jones, Trin-i-tee 5:7, James Fortune & FIYA, Leon Timbo, Urban D, Special Ed, and Kirk Franklin.
Yunek not only has the anointing in music, but has a calling to truly minister to the hearts of people. Yunek holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Work. Coupling her education with a passion to minister to young people, she devotes time as Youth and College Ministry Mentor at her home church working with underprivileged youth, battered women, at-risk teens and young adults. She equips her mentees with the 5E’s: Empower, Encourage, Enlighten, Edify and Entertain.
A Unique Passion: Several of my friends in high school lived in residential treatment centers. I would hear their stories and my heart would go out to them. Many of them just needed someone who would listen, be able to relate, and be a good friend. I love to see people overcome obstacles in their life, and if I can help in any way I do. It feels good to be a part of another person’s success story.
Yunēk’s music ministry exemplifies an inimitable blend of passion and inspiration through her writing, singing, and producing. I am destined to do this,” Yunēk says. “This is a gift God has given me and it is my purpose to build this ministry to what God wants it to be,” explains Yunek. “He did not give it to any other female Christian artist. No one can live this out but me.” And as only a true woman of faith could do, Yunēk has answered the call and refuses to look back because she is Anointed and Unique.
