In the midst of trials, it’s difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Gospel Artist and Songwriter Krystal A. Livingston has experienced many disappointments, but she believes, as her favorite scripture states, that it all works for her good. The Connecticut-based recording artist and former choir director is known for her exceptional vocal skills, talents which have placed her on stages singing background vocals for mainstream pop artists Josh Groban and Kenny Loggins and opening up for Gospel legend, Donnie McClurkin. However, it was her solo debut, My Journey, His Glory, in 2012, that launched her music ministry. Krystal recently released a brand new single, “Winner”, from her forthcoming sophomore release.
“Winner (Hupernikao)”, an inspirational power ballad, finds the psalmist showcasing her impressive alto vocals while uplifting the listener. Penned by the vocalist herself, she delivers a rousing performance flaunting a multi-octave range. For Krystal, it’s not about wowing audiences with her vocal prowess, but it’s solely about empowering believers and non-believers with the Gospel through song. The song is also a testimony for the singer, reflecting on a time when it didn’t seem like she was winning at all. “A few years ago, I had two positions that abruptly ended,” she recounts. “At the time, I did not understand what was happening; things were going so well and then, all of the sudden, the rug was pulled out from under me – TWICE. Later, I realized that I was getting comfortable and God had to make me uncomfortable to push me into my purpose,” Krystal says. These “unfortunate incidents” were right after she had mentioned to friends her aspirations of full-time music ministry. The Lord told her to dust off the songs He had given her and to move forward.
Music has been part of Krystal’s story from the beginning. Born in Bronx, New York, she started singing as a youth. Later, she joined adult choirs and praise teams and sung across the nation. An actress as well, she sang in musicals, ultimately launching a drama ministry at her church, Book of A.C.T.S. (Acting & Conveying Truth on Stage). As an actress, she has portrayed jazz great Nina Simone in a one woman-show, “An Evening with Nina Simone”.
She got her first taste as a recording artist when she dropped her debut, My Journey, His Glory. The first part of project, My Story, lays bare her life and addresses issues like low self-esteem, depression and bullying. The songs allowed her to share her personal experiences to inspire others. The second half, His Glory, included songs of adoration and praise the Lord. My Journey, His Glory saw the release of an unforgettable singles, “Shoelaces”, a track encouraging listeners to look up. In addition to the singles from the project, she has also dropped a song, “Great Things”, a classic praise anthem penned by Tessie Hill.
Krystal A. Livingston has learned and taught Gospel music on the collegiate level. She taught a Gospel Music Master Class at the renowned Yale University. A graduate of University of New Haven (UNH), CT, she founded and directed the UNH Gospel Choir. While there, she became the university’s first Adjunct Professor teaching Gospel Music performance. Breaking ground wherever she goes, the songstress was recognized with a proclamation from New London, CT, and was honored by the National Council of Negro Women. She has netted awards and nominations for her music as well, taking home a Holla Back Gospel Music Award for Best Female Artist and receiving a 2017 Connecticut Music Awards nomination in the category of Gospel Music. Currently, she is the Executive Director of Worship & The Fine Arts and the Director of Praise & Worship at her home church, New Life Christian Fellowship in Ledyard, CT.
