Gospel singer finds peace with ‘Rejoice’

In recent years, Sashaun Williams has endured bouts of depression due to a challenging medical condition, and for solace she called on her Christian faith.

The role religion has played in Williams' recovery inspired the single Rejoice, her first song, which was released on August 27, her birthday. Sherwayne Cowans, a veteran gospel artiste, produced the track.

"The song is really about the fact that as Christians, we go through trials. I have an illness that requires medical attention, and, at times, takes a toll on my mental state. But I decided that despite my condition, I'm going to live my life, I'm going to rejoice," she said.

Born in Montego Bay, St James, Williams was raised in Trelawny in a Christian home. In her teens, she listened to a lot of inspirational music by acts such as CeCe Winans, one of the persons who helped define the contemporary gospel scene. Over the years, she cut her musical teeth as a harmony singer for artistes like Shaundre Cowan. This year, Cowan felt Williams was ready to fly solo, and a song sharing her personal story seemed appropriate.

"I'm sure there are a lot of people out there in similar positions and they can relate to a song like Rejoice. It shows that faith can see us through the toughest situations," she said.