The R&B star who heard a divine command to quit music
In short: Montell Jordan reached the pinnacle of 1990s pop, topping the charts for seven weeks with his signature hit. But in 2010, at the height of his potential comeback, he received a spiritual directive that fundamentally altered his career trajectory and public identity.
Born in South Central Los Angeles to a Baptist family, Montell Jordan's musical roots were deeply tied to church life. He played piano for his local congregation as a child before pursuing formal education at Pepperdine University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in communications in 1991. His professional breakthrough came in 1995 when he signed with Def Jam Records as their second R&B artist. His debut single, "This Is How We Do It," became a massive success, spending seven consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and propelling his first album to platinum status.
Despite his commercial dominance, Jordan faced an internal conflict regarding his public persona. While Def Jam marketed him as a sex icon, Jordan—who had been married since 1994—felt the image was at odds with his personal life and artistic maturity. He eventually left the label in 2003 to seek more creative control, releasing 'Life After Def' under Koch Records. During this period of transition, he also balanced a prolific career as a songwriter and producer for major artists like Christina Milian, Sisqó, and Deborah Cox.
The most significant shift in Jordan's life occurred in 2010. While serving as the executive worship pastor at Victory World Church in Norcross, Georgia, he planned to release a comeback album. However, during a period of fasting, Jordan reported being told by God to leave the music industry entirely. He subsequently canceled his plans and dedicated himself to ministry. This transition led to the co-founding of Master Peace Church with his wife, Kristin, a virtual ministry focused on spiritual growth and marriage preservation.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Montell Jordan
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