Urban Gospel and Contemporary Christian artist Aaron Lavelle has officially signed with TRIBL Records, marking a major milestone after more than a decade of independent artistry. The announcement arrives as Lavelle prepares to release his highly anticipated new album CROWNED, a genre-blending project that reflects both his musical evolution and deep-rooted faith. Anchored by the forthcoming single "I Just Want You," the new era signals expanded reach, creative alignment, and a bold step into a broader platform within the modern worship movement.
Q: After more than a decade of building your career independently, what does signing with TRIBL Records mean to you personally and spiritually in this moment?
After more than a decade of building my career independently, signing with TRIBL means alignment for me personally and spiritually. I lost my father in 2024, and he spoke these very things over my life as he was losing his. So this deal is very personal to me. It signifies my growth as an artist and businessman. To be in the company of Kirk Franklin, Kierra Sheard-Kelly, Maverick City, Travis Greene, and so many other great artists at TRIBL is a dream come true. I wouldn't want it any other way.
Q: Your new album CROWNED blends country, soul, CCM, hip-hop, and R&B-how did your musical journey shape this genre-crossing sound, and what message are you hoping listeners take from it?
That's a great question. It goes back to my Father and grandmother, who were Gospel singers who pushed me to learn music outside of Gospel. They wanted to explore different sounds and genres, to be a versatile artist. I believe the message listeners take from this album is that Jesus is King, that we are just pilgrims passing through, and that our ultimate goal is heaven. These songs are reminders of that, but in a modern, fresh way. The listeners are going to go on a journey from start to finish. It's definitely a genre-blending album.
Q: Your breakout single "Rock" and follow-up "Watch God Work" both gained strong traction-how have those songs influenced the direction and confidence behind this new project?
I love these questions! So, in so many ways. Initially, I was not as confident as a rapper as I am now. After the success of "Rock," it showed me that I was a natural who just needed that push. "Watch God Work" was my introduction to this next chapter in my life. It set up so many opportunities spiritually and personally. I believe these two records solidified my sound as an Urban Contemporary Gospel artist.
Q: TRIBL Records is known for shaping the modern worship movement-how do you see your voice and style contributing something unique to that community?
I grew up singing worship at church for years before becoming a recording artist. I believe my distinct sounds add something different and unique that listeners are searching for. A voice and style that grab their attention, write away, and tell a story.
Q: The new single "I Just Want You" suggests a deeply personal posture of worship-can you share the story or spiritual experience behind that song?
There is my next single that's coming out on May 1, 2026, called "I Just Want You," which is the core to the project. This song was written 19 years ago in 2007, when I was 16 years old at a gospel concert. An intercessor was doing the opening prayer and referencing the scripture in Psalm 20:7 : "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God". God says we should be as little children with childlike faith when we come to him, and that's what this song is about. It's a cry out to God that in the midst of living, all I really want is you. I think it's important that we know how much God desires that we want him, not for what he can do for us, but for who he is.
Q: Looking ahead, what do you believe this new season-with CROWNED and your partnership with TRIBL-will allow you to do that you haven't been able to do before?
I believe this partnership will provide more reach than I've had before. For instance, I'll be going on my first tour this summer, kicking off in Orlando with special guests Zacardi Cortez and Kierra Sheard-Kelly.
Follow: @aaronlavellemusic
