William McDowell

William David McDowell is an American contemporary gospel musician, worship leader, songwriter, and pastor. Known for his spirit-led live worship recordings and his deep, resonant voice, McDowell has established himself as a central figure in modern praise and worship. His music goes beyond traditional gospel, focusing instead on creating immersive, congregational worship experiences that draw listeners into moments of deep spiritual connection.

Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, he first captured global attention with his 2009 breakout album “As We Worship”, which introduced the massive worship anthem “I Give Myself Away”. The song became a staple in churches around the world, catapulting him to international recognition. Since then, he has consistently released chart-topping albums and led worship across the globe, earning critical acclaim and a Grammy Award nomination.

Today, in addition to his highly successful recording career, McDowell serves as the lead pastor of Deeper Fellowship Church in Orlando, Florida. He continues to mentor the next generation of worshippers and release music that bridges the gap between Sunday morning services and mainstream gospel charts.

Early Life and Education

William David McDowell was born on August 31, 1976, in Cincinnati, Ohio.His parents, Lewis and Pauline McDowell, were originally from North Carolina. Growing up, faith and music were foundational parts of his life. In his twenties, McDowell relocated to Orlando, Florida, to pursue his passion for the entertainment industry.He enrolled at Full Sail University, where he successfully earned a degree in Entertainment Business. This educational background provided him with a strong understanding of the music industry, equipping him with the tools to navigate his future career as an independent artist and label executive.

How Their Music Career Started

Before launching his solo career as a recording artist, McDowell honed his musical and leadership skills behind the scenes. He had the opportunity to be mentored by the legendary worship leader Ron Kenoly, serving as Kenoly’s music director.Following his time at Full Sail University, his spiritual and musical mentorship continued under Sam Hinn while McDowell served as the Worship Pastor at The Gathering Place Church. These foundational years of leading local congregations and directing established artists prepared him for his eventual transition to the forefront of the gospel music scene.

Career and Breakthrough

McDowell’s official music career began in February 2009 with the release of his debut live album, “As We Worship”.The project was an immediate success, debuting on the Billboard Gospel Albums chart and introducing a fresh, deeply spiritual sound to the industry.The defining moment of the album was the release of the hit single “I Give Myself Away”. The track resonated profoundly with audiences and became a massive crossover hit, sung in congregations globally. This explosive breakthrough firmly established McDowell not just as a singer, but as a premier worship leader capable of writing enduring modern hymns.

Notable Songs and Albums

Following his remarkable debut, McDowell continued to release a string of highly successful projects.His sophomore album, “Arise” (2011), reached the number one spot on the Billboard Gospel Albums chart.In 2013, he released “Withholding Nothing”, which again topped the gospel charts and became one of his most critically acclaimed bodies of work.He followed this with “Sounds of Revival” in 2016 and “Sounds of Revival II: Deeper” in 2017. His 2019 project “The Cry: A Live Worship Experience” continued his tradition of capturing raw, unscripted moments of praise. His catalog is filled with worship classics, including “I Won’t Go Back,” “Withholding Nothing,” and “Send the Rain”.

Awards and Recognition

McDowell’s contributions to contemporary Christian music have earned him significant industry recognition. His 2013 album “Withholding Nothing” brought him a Grammy Award nomination for Best Gospel Album at the 57th Annual Grammy Awards.Furthermore, he has been a consistent presence at the Stellar Awards, receiving multiple nominations over the years, including Traditional Male Vocalist of the Year and Traditional CD of the Year, highlighting his lasting impact on the gospel genre.

Personal Life

Outside of his demanding music career, McDowell is a devoted family man. In May 2009, shortly after the release of his breakthrough debut album, he married his wife, LaTae.The couple resides just outside of Orlando, Florida, with their children. McDowell is known for seamlessly blending his family life with his ministry, often speaking about the importance of spiritual leadership within the home.

Current Career and Recent Activities

Today, William McDowell balances his life as a globally recognized recording artist with his pastoral calling. He is the founder and lead pastor of Deeper Fellowship Church in Orlando, Florida, a congregation known for its intense worship culture and spiritual focus.He remains highly active in the music industry, releasing new projects such as the 2026 album “Dreams, Revelations and Moments”. He also mentors emerging artists and continues to travel extensively, leading worship at major conferences and events while maintaining his status as a pioneer in modern gospel music.