Isaac Carree

Isaac Thompson Carree III, known professionally as Isaac Carree, is an American gospel singer, songwriter, producer, and actor. With a career spanning over thirty years, he has established himself as a prominent voice in contemporary gospel music. Carree is celebrated for his smooth tenor vocals and his ability to seamlessly blend traditional black gospel with modern, urban R&B influences.

He first gained national attention as an integral member of the acclaimed gospel group Men of Standard before launching a highly successful solo career in 2011. Today, Carree is best known for his chart-topping solo debut album, “Uncommon Me,” and his uplifting hit singles like “In the Middle” and “Clean This House.”

Quick Facts

Early Life and Background

Isaac Carree was born on April 28, 1973, in Greensboro, North Carolina, to Pastor Nancy Wilson and Isaac Thompson Carree Jr. Growing up in a deeply religious household, music and faith were central to his early development. His mother served as a pastor at New Beginnings Community Outreach Church in Greensboro, providing him with a strong spiritual foundation. Naturally gifted with a fine tenor voice, Carree began singing solos in church as a young boy, honing the vocal talents that would eventually lead him to the national stage.

How Their Music Career Started

Carree’s professional music journey officially began in 1990 when he caught the attention of gospel legend John P. Kee. He was invited to join Kee’s New Life Community Choir, an experience that immersed him in the professional gospel industry. During his tenure with the choir, Carree was prominently featured on the hit track “Wave It Away,” which helped introduce his voice to a broader audience.

After five years of touring and recording with the New Life Community Choir, Carree felt ready to explore new musical avenues. In 1995, he departed the choir to co-found the contemporary gospel male group Men of Standard alongside Michael Bacon, Bryan Pierce, and Lowell Pye. The group officially debuted in 1996, signing with the Muscle Shoals imprint of Malaco Records. Over the next decade, Men of Standard released multiple critically acclaimed albums, earning Dove Award nominations and solidifying their place in the 1990s and 2000s gospel scene.

Career and Breakthrough

Despite his massive success as a group member, Carree eventually felt a spiritual and creative pull toward solo work. During a hiatus from Men of Standard, he stepped out on his own, recording his debut solo album, “Uncommon Me.” Released in August 2011 under Sovereign Agency, the project was a massive commercial and critical breakthrough.

“Uncommon Me” debuted at number one on the Billboard Gospel Albums chart, reached number 48 on the Billboard 200, and peaked at number five on the Independent Albums chart. The album allowed Carree to showcase his distinct personality, blending traditional worship themes with fresh, contemporary production. The success of this debut firmly established him as a leading solo artist in the modern gospel landscape.

Notable Songs and Albums

Following his breakthrough, Carree continued his momentum with his sophomore album, “Reset,” released in June 2013 by Door 6 Records. Much like his debut, “Reset” debuted at number one on the Billboard Gospel Albums chart and performed well on the Billboard 200. The album produced several popular tracks, including the hit single “Clean This House.”

In March 2020, he released his third solo studio album, “No Risk No Reward,” via Shanachie Entertainment. Throughout his solo discography, Carree is best known for standout singles like “In the Middle,” “Simply Redeemed,” and “Clean This House.” Aside from studio recordings, he has spent years touring alongside major names in both gospel and secular music, including Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, Steve Harvey, and Tim McGraw.

Awards and Recognition

Carree’s contributions to gospel music have been widely recognized by industry peers. During his time with Men of Standard, the group took home two Stellar Awards. As a solo artist, his debut project “Uncommon Me” earned him a prestigious solo Stellar Award, validating his transition from a group member to a standalone headliner. Over the course of his career, he has also received honors and recognition from BMI, ASCAP, and the Dove Awards.

Personal Life

Outside of his music career, Carree is a dedicated family man. He is married to his wife, Dietra, and together they share three children: daughters Alexis and Alaina Monet, and a son, Isaac Thompson Carree IV. The family currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia.