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J. Drew Sheard II: Exploring His Musical Journey, Family Background, and Private Life

17 mins read
J. Drew Sheard II
J. Drew Sheard II

Who is J. Drew Sheard ii?

J. Drew Sheard II is a well-known figure in the R&B music scene in the United States, and his musical talents go beyond just singing. He’s also a skilled songwriter and music producer. Music seems to run in the family, as his daughter, Kali Drew Sheard, is following in his footsteps. Drew II’s family is rich in musical heritage, thanks in part to his mother, Karen Clark Sheard.

Drew II’s journey in music started at a young age, and his passion for it grew stronger with time. He dedicated himself to perfecting his skills, and all that hard work eventually led him to fame in the music industry. Interestingly, fans have noticed that he often appears taller than others in photographs, although the exact details of his height and weight remain private.

Bio

John Drew Sheard, born on January 1, 1959, is a highly esteemed figure in Detroit, Michigan. He serves as a pastor and minister, holding the distinguished position of Presiding Bishop within the Church of God in Christ (COGIC). COGIC is a Holiness Pentecostal organization with a predominantly African American membership, boasting an impressive 6 million devoted followers. It has grown over the years to become one of the largest Pentecostal African American congregations in the United States.

What makes Bishop Sheard’s journey even more exceptional is the historic nature of his leadership role. In a groundbreaking move, he was elected as the head of COGIC through the first-ever all-virtual online election on March 20, 2021. This adaptation was necessary due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. His ascent to this role is a significant milestone because he is the first Presiding Bishop of COGIC from Michigan. In addition to his responsibilities within the denomination, he also leads the Greater Emmanuel Institutional Church of God in Christ, a prominent Michigan church affiliated with COGIC.

Before his current role, Bishop Sheard played a crucial part on the General Board, a group of twelve bishops forming the national Board of Directors for the COGIC denomination. Furthermore, he dedicated his time and energy to the COGIC International Youth Department from 1997 to 2001, a ministry department with a focus on youth and young adults. He also took on the roles of International President and Chairman of the COGIC Auxiliaries In Ministry (AIM) convention from 2004 to 2012, demonstrating his longstanding commitment to serving the community within the COGIC organization.

Personal Life Of J. Drew Sheard

Kali Drew Sheard’s father, J. Drew Sheard, or John Drew, is a rising star in his early thirties, hailing from the vibrant city of Detroit, Michigan. While we estimate his birth year to be around 1989, J. Drew keeps his exact birth date a closely guarded secret. Understandably, this leaves his fans both curious and a tad disappointed as they eagerly await a chance to celebrate his birthday.

J. Drew Sheard II is a notably private individual, especially when it comes to his personal life. He keeps his dating experiences and other personal details under wraps, leaving his fans to wonder. Despite his family’s prominence in the American entertainment industry, J. Drew prefers to maintain a low profile.

One aspect of his identity that he proudly embraces is his African-American heritage, and he holds American nationality. Additionally, his connection with the Christian faith is a fundamental part of his life.

Marriage and family

J. Drew Sheard shares a loving and enduring marital bond with Karen Clark-Sheard, a highly acclaimed Grammy Award-winning gospel singer known for her pivotal role in the influential gospel group, the Clark Sisters. Their family is blessed with two children: Kierra “Kiki” Sheard-Kelly, born in 1987, and John Drew “J. Drew” Sheard II (Jr.), born in 1989. They also adore their two grandchildren. However, their family had to endure the heart-wrenching loss of a stillbirth during another pregnancy, a profound tragedy that deeply touched their lives.

Both Kierra and J. Drew II have forged their own paths in the music industry. Kierra, a gospel recording artist, has left her mark with the release of four albums and various musical projects. On the other hand, J. Drew II is a talented musician and producer. He frequently lends his musical talents, skillfully playing the drums and piano for several gospel singers and groups, including the iconic Clark Sisters.

In 2001, the Sheard family faced a life-threatening crisis when Karen Clark-Sheard encountered complications during bariatric surgery. The odds were undeniably slim, with only a 2% chance of survival due to severe complications. Her subsequent three-and-a-half-week-long coma was a harrowing ordeal, but she miraculously recovered. Her husband, Bishop Sheard, attributes her recovery to the power of prayer, God’s grace, and the incredible healing process.

Tragically, in 2020, both of J. Drew Sheard’s parents battled COVID-19. His mother, Willie Mae Sheard, lost her life to the virus in April 2020, leaving a void that can never be filled. His father, John Henry Sheard, also contracted the virus but managed to recover, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness. However, the family was dealt another heavy blow when John Henry Sheard passed away on November 11, 2021, succumbing to an infection. Bishop Sheard shared this heartbreaking news with his followers on Instagram, touching the hearts of many.

Additionally, J. Drew Sheard’s brother, Ethan Blake Sheard, continues the family tradition as a COGIC pastor. The Sheard family’s ties run deep within the COGIC denomination, and their connections extend to influential figures like Mattie Moss Clark, who played crucial roles in the COGIC Music Department and directed the international COGIC C. H. Mason Memorial Choir. Her contributions were central to the denomination’s music ministry during international conventions and conferences, leaving an indelible mark on their legacy.

Career

Bishop Sheard’s incredible journey within the COGIC denomination had its roots in the wisdom imparted by his father, Bishop John H. Sheard. As a young man, he embarked on a path that would ultimately lead him to great heights. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, he assumed a range of pivotal roles within the denomination. He directed choirs, oversaw local and state youth departments, and eventually rose to the esteemed position of executive secretary of the International Youth Department for COGIC.

His journey in pastoral leadership began with a humble, all-African-American congregation when he was appointed as the lead pastor of the Greater Emmanuel Institutional COGIC in Detroit back in 1988. Over the years, this church witnessed remarkable growth, evolving into one of Michigan’s largest and fastest-growing COGIC congregations. What’s truly remarkable is that despite its predominantly African-American membership, the church became a diverse Pentecostal community, welcoming people from all backgrounds.

Bishop Sheard’s unwavering dedication did not go unnoticed, and he rightfully received recognitions and accolades. In 2008, he was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Divinity, and in 2007, he joined the Morehouse College Martin Luther King Jr. Board of Preachers. Alongside his wife, Karen, he established Karew Records in 2009, a label with a mission to produce gospel and inspirational music, contributing to the spread of gospel messages.

His influence extended beyond the local church. He took on various leadership positions within COGIC, including serving as the international president of the Youth Department and later as vice chairman and chairman of the Auxiliaries in Ministry (AIM) Department. In 2009, he assumed the role of jurisdictional bishop of the Michigan North Central Jurisdiction diocese of COGIC, a position that received approval from the COGIC General Assembly.

Bishop Sheard’s journey reached new heights when he was elected to the prestigious General Board. In a momentous turn of events in 2021, he made the decision to run for the office of presiding bishop. Through a hard-fought election, he emerged as the victorious candidate, taking on the role of presiding bishop for the Church of God in Christ worldwide. His inauguration, which occurred on June 22, 2021, marked the beginning of a new chapter in his spiritual leadership.

Beyond his contributions to the religious community, Bishop Sheard’s life was even immortalized on the big screen in 2020. Actor Michael Xavier portrayed him in “The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel,” a biographical film produced by the likes of Mary J. Blige and Queen Latifah. This film shed light on the incredible careers of his wife and sisters-in-law as a gospel group.

Bishop Sheard’s journey is an extraordinary testament to his unwavering commitment to his faith, his exceptional leadership within COGIC, and the remarkable growth of his church in Detroit, all of which have left an indelible mark on the world of gospel and ministry.

J. Drew Sheard II Net Worth

Kali Drew Sheard’s father, J. Drew Sheard, has been steadily carving out a name for himself in the American entertainment industry over the years. However, in line with his private disposition, he’s managed to keep his net worth somewhat of a mystery. While the exact figures are closely guarded secrets, it’s widely believed that a significant portion of his income comes from his music career. Despite his achievements, he’s one of those individuals who prefers to stay out of the limelight, especially when it comes to sharing details about his financial assets and obligations, which he keeps under wraps.

Summary:

J. Drew Sheard II is emerging as a rising star in the American music scene, and his journey is deeply rooted in the rich tradition of gospel music. Born around 1989 in the vibrant city of Detroit, he comes from a family with an extraordinary musical legacy. His parents are none other than Bishop John Drew Sheard and the Grammy-winning gospel sensation, Karen Clark-Sheard. With such influential figures as his mentors, it’s no wonder that music flows through his veins.

J. Drew Sheard II has forged his unique path in the world of music, showcasing remarkable talent in various musical roles. Despite his accomplishments, he keeps his personal life private and low-key, which is quite a contrast to the often glamorous world of the music industry.

One noteworthy aspect of his life is his deep connection to the Church of God in Christ (COGIC), a denomination that holds immense significance in the realm of gospel music. Within this world, he has quietly made his mark, contributing his skills and passion to the music ministry.

While his success in the music industry continues to grow, J. Drew Sheard II remains a bit of an enigma, leaving fans and music enthusiasts eager to learn more about this up-and-coming talent.

Facts About J. Drew Sheard II:

Musical Proficiency: He excels as a singer, songwriter, and music producer.

Notable Family: His mother, Karen Clark-Sheard, is a gospel music icon, and his father, Bishop John Drew Sheard, leads the COGIC denomination.

Birth Year: Estimated to be around 1989, but his exact birthdate is undisclosed.

Privacy Stance: He remains tight-lipped about his personal life, sparking curiosity among fans.

Marital Status: He’s married to Karen Clark-Sheard and has children.

Music Industry Contribution: Known for playing instruments and producing music for gospel artists.

Tragic Family Incidents: Faced losses due to his parents’ battles with COVID-19.

COGIC Connection: Linked to the COGIC denomination through his father’s leadership.

Heritage and Faith: Proudly identifies with African-American roots and embraces Christianity.

Financial Details: Net worth remains private, but music is a major income source.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about J. Drew Sheard II:

What does J. Drew Sheard II do professionally?

A musician, singer, songwriter, and music producer in the American gospel music industry.

Who are J. Drew Sheard II’s well-known family members?

His mother is Karen Clark-Sheard, a Grammy-winning gospel singer, and his father, Bishop John Drew Sheard, leads the COGIC denomination.

Is J. Drew Sheard II married?

Yes, he’s married to Karen Clark-Sheard and has children.

What role does he play in the music industry?

He’s involved in music production and often plays instruments for various gospel singers and groups.

What genre of music does he primarily work in?

Primarily gospel music, contributing to the gospel genre.

Has he experienced personal tragedies?

Yes, his family faced losses due to his parents’ battles with COVID-19.

What’s his association with the Church of God in Christ (COGIC)?

His father, Bishop John Drew Sheard, leads the COGIC denomination, and J. Drew Sheard II is part of this religious community.

Is there public information about his net worth?

Specific details about his net worth remain private.

Why is J. Drew Sheard II notably private about his personal life?

He maintains privacy, choosing not to disclose personal details, sparking curiosity among fans.

Where can one find J. Drew Sheard II’s music or projects?

His music contributions might be found through various gospel music productions and collaborations, although specific projects might not be publicly highlighted.