Born and raised in the musically acclaimed city of Philadelphia PA, Desiree Regina Neal, affectionately known as “Dezzie” graciously received her portion of Philadelphia’s musical gifting. A city that produced many well known musical geniuses such as Marian Anderson, Teddy Pendergrass, Jill Scott, and Patti Labelle, was just right to add Dezzie to its growing list of successful musical artist. Dezzie grew up in a family of singers, and was destined to be a star in her own right. The younger of two children, Dezzie’s parents recognized her gift to sing early on and began to cultivate it. With the hopes of protecting her gift, Dezzie’s mother purposed was to keep her under the covering of the church. Therefore, harmonizing and revising traditional church hymns became the musical foundation that would eventually launch Dezzie into her signature soulful style of singing.
On one purposeful night, Dezzie’s stint as an amateur singer would be quickly changed to a career as an artist. While performing a song for the open mic portion of a Christian café, little did Dezzie know that Eric T. Greene Sr., founder & CEO of End Tyme Productions, LLC, was sitting in the audience. Greene was blown away by Dezzie’s vocals and wasted no time in approaching her after her performance. It was on that night that Greene presented Dezzie with the opportunity to record her 1st project entitled “Here I Am” which captured the essence of today’s youth and the issues they often struggle with. Through her music and electrifying personality Dezzie allows the Holy Spirit to use her as a vessel to pour out his wisdom and comfort to anyone who was willing to listen. She is persistent with exposing the truth and aims to shed light on the tricks and traps of the enemy. Dezzie’s powerful lyrics projects healing and penetrate lives that have been affected by issues such as fornication, shame and idolatry. On her 2nd project “Dying Daily.… A Journey Through Spiritual Growth,” Dezzie transparently takes the events of her life and pours them on wax for all to hear and be blessed. With hits like, “Good Morning Lord,” “Enough” and “Move”, this album was destined to create a buzz.
When people meet Dezzie they are often taken by how personable she is and the fact that she makes it a point to connect with the people listening to her minister. Admitting that she is a Christian that struggles but also that the struggle is well worth it with makes it very easy for people to relate to Dezzie’s inviting personality. Dezzie seeks to defy the status quo of what it means to be “an artist” or even “a minister,” in order to prove that you can fulfill both positions with a loving and humble spirit that exudes integrity, vitality & Christian character. With music and an image that reflects her mission, which is “being free in Christ,” Dezzie believes that one’s praise should not be confined to a box. Freedom of expression is necessary and important to worship God in Spirit and Truth and both Dezzie’s lyrics and signature style are synonymous with her mission.
Dezzie’s journey as a Gospel artist has afforded her many opportunities. She has shared the stage with various gospel artists such as Yalonda Adams ,Kirk Franklin , Brian Courtney Wilson, Tribbett & G. A.,and Mary Mary. In addition, Dezzie has been solicited to host special events, compose stage play soundtracks as well as perform for several city-wide events such as the Penn’s Landing summer concert series (2004); the 2004 “Peace on the Streets” Rally; the United States Conference on Aids (2004); Unity Day (2003-2007); Mega Fest (2006); and Gospel Fest (2006-2007). Most recently, Dezzie’s soulful voice can be heard as a radio host on Philadelphia’s popular gospel station Praise 103.9FM, where her witty responses and engaging conversation contributes to her rapidly spreading popularity. The many blessings that Dezzie has received in life has taught her to remain grounded and steadfast in the Lord, but has also sparked a desire in her to pursue all that God has ordained for her life. Stay tuned for what’s coming next, because Dezzie’s journey to create Gospel music history and make an impact in this world has just begun!!!
