Marvin Sapp, a former member of gospel group Commissioned, launched a successful solo career in the mid-'90s, known for his passionate delivery and incorporation of R&B and smooth jazz elements into his music. With a discography including chart-topping albums like Be Exalted (2005) and the gold-selling Thirsty (2007), Sapp has earned multiple Dove and BET awards, as well as 11 Grammy nominations. His solo journey began with a self-titled album in 1996, following his time with Commissioned, and has since spanned multiple acclaimed releases, including Close (2017) and Substance (2022).

Originally recruited for Commissioned as a lesser-known artist, Marvin Sapp established himself as a prominent figure in gospel music after the group's dissolution in 1995. Hailing from Grand Rapids, Michigan, Sapp's solo career took off with his debut album in 1996, produced by former Commissioned member Fred Hammond. Over the years, Sapp has continued to deliver impactful music, with highlights such as his 2010 album Here I Am and the chart-topping You Shall Live in 2015. His collaborative efforts with R&B artist R. Kelly on the single "Listen" and subsequent album Close in 2017 further solidified his position as a respected and influential voice in the gospel music scene.