That Grape Juice Interviews Gospel Superstar Tasha Cobbs

Published: Monday 25th May 2015 by Rashad

‘Break Every Chain’ beauty Tasha Cobbs saw her debut effort break chains, break records, and break new ground in gospel music. Launched from the album ‘Grace,’ the song – alongside its follow-up ‘For Your Glory’ – is still enjoying major success on the Billboard Gospel Album and Singles charts respectively.

Now, much to the dismay of competition, Cobbs’ summer due sophomore effort – kicked off by the #1 single ‘Jesus Saves’ – is looking to follow its predecessor’s suit.

Dishing exclusively to That Grape Juice, Tasha talks about her new effort, battling depression, and if she’ll ever find herself starring in her own reality show. It all awaits below:

TGJ: We’re so excited about your new project. The last time we talked to you we saw you killing the game with your debut effort ‘Grace’! Now, we’re looking for a repeat with ‘Jesus Saves.’

Tasha: Thank you! When I first wrote the song, I was kind of torn because it’s only those two words. It’s the first single I’ve ever released that I wrote myself.

But, when people hear this song, I know they attach their own personal testimonies to it. No matter what He saved you from, the truth is…He saved you.

TGJ: At this stage in the game, how important is it for you to write your own songs and put the “entire package together,” so to speak?

Tasha: It’s been absolutely rewarding. I’ve written songs before for myself and other artists, but never have any of them been singles of mine. Yes, those songs were phenomenal, but it’s different when you have a personal testimony behind the songs you release to the world.

I’ve suffered with rejection and depression and that’s the testimony attached to “Jesus Saves.”

TGJ: That leads us to your new album ‘One Place Live.’ Who are some features we should expect?

Tasha: One that I’m really excited about is Kierra Sheard – a really close friend of mine. Then, there are some of my mentors Bishop Paul Morton, Bishop William Murphy, and many more!

TGJ: We’ve been reading where you described the album as “progressive and crossover” – a bit different from your previous effort. Tell us about that.

Tasha: You’ll notice a more mature sound from this album. We have rock songs, some with a country twist, and more, but for the most part, they’re all worship songs. I’m still the same Tasha.

TGJ: When should we expect it in stores?

Tasha: Well, we don’t have a date quite yet (laughs). But, you should expect it some time closer to the end of the summer.

TGJ: Nice. In the meantime, we’re excited to hear what you’ve cooked up with the features you mentioned. But, we’re also curious to know who are some people you’ve yet to work with that you’d like to work with in the future.

Tasha: I have always loved Yolanda Adams – her voice and her spirit. I’d love to do something with her. And, of course, there’s CeCe Winans and Darlene Zschech.

TGJ: Those all sound amazing Tasha! Now, shifting gears a bit, we’re seeing an influx of gospel or faith-based reality shows across Lifetime, Oxygen, WeTV, BET, and more. If given the opportunity, would you ever consider doing one yourself?

Tasha: I’ve always been a very private person. I like to keep my personal life personal. It depends on how it’s presented. If I get a choice in how I’m presented, then I would be open.

TGJ: Interesting you say that. On ‘Mary Mary’ – the reality show – singer Tina Campbell is very open about the trials of her marriage and the emotional toll it’s taken on her. You mentioned earlier about dealing with depression yourself. Where do you, as an inspirational artist, draw strength from to continue to inspire others when you are dealing with your own problems?

Tasha: One of the things I remember, especially after my father’s passing, was having to get back on the road just two weeks later. My heart was still very broken and I was confused.

I was standing on stage and the Lord spoke to me and said, “You need my presence right now because that’s where your peace is.” From there, my perspective on ministry changed. While I do care about the members of the audience getting what they need from my message, I realize that I need that fuel too.

I made it through because I pursued the presence of God.

TGJ: Now, let’s bring it all home. If the album drops late summer 2015, what else should we expect from you this year?

Tasha: We are doing some touring with several conferences and other little spot dates here and there to prepare for the album’s release. I can’t wait to see everybody once I make it to your city!

Interview by: Rashad (That Grape Juice US)