Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelton Je’Von
Hi Kelton, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’m Kelton Je’Von, I’m a Songwriter, Producer, Artist and Radio Show Host. My journey began on December 25, 1995, in Dallas, Texas. When I was five, my family relocated to Grand Prairie, Texas, a move that would shape my future in unexpected ways. Growing up in a Christian household, I was surrounded by faith and music, but it wasn’t until later that I realized music was my true calling.
Initially, I dreamed of becoming an architect, fascinated by the idea of designing structures that could stand the test of time. However, my heart always beat to a different rhythm. By the age of seven, I had already begun writing songs, capturing my thoughts and emotions in melodies and lyrics. This early start was just the beginning of a lifelong love affair with music.
As I delved deeper into the world of music, I found myself drawn to the soulful sounds of R&B and the powerful beats of Hip-Hop. These genres significantly influenced my style, allowing me to create a unique blend that resonates with many. Despite the broad musical landscape I explored, my Christian faith remained the cornerstone of my artistic journey.
A pretty dope moment in my life came when Gospel veteran Kirk Franklin and a host of other Dallas Gospel legends entered the scene. Their influence was profound, serving as beacons of hope and inspiration. They encouraged me to pursue my dreams relentlessly, to never give up on the path God had set before me.
After graduating from James Bowie High School in Arlington in 2014, I took a significant step towards my dream by enrolling at MediaTech Institute. There, I immersed myself in the study of Recording Arts, Music Business, Music Theory, and Live Sound Engineering. This education equipped me with the technical skills needed to complement my artistic talents.
Together with my brother KelbyOnTheTrack and my father Kelby Sr., we founded KJ Productions, an independent record label dedicated to nurturing unique Gospel artists in the DFW area. Under this label, I released my debut album, “I AM HERE,” in 2015, followed by “Prodigal Me” in 2019. These albums, featuring some of DFW’s finest artists, showcased my ability to blend Gospel, Hip-Hop, and R&B, bringing new life to the genre. My mission is clear: to save souls and change the narrative around Christianity through music.
In April 2022, I unexpectedly expanded my reach by stepping into the world of radio. Joining the KNON 89.3FM family in Dallas. I began on KNON’s new streaming internet station, “KNON NOW,” and two years later, after the passing of longtime FM Radio Gospel DJ Rick Leday, “Pushin’ Praise” was promoted to FM Radio. Now, every Sunday from 10 AM to 12 PM, you can catch me, my father Kelby Johnson Sr., and my brother, Grammy Award-winning producer KelbyOnTheTrack, on KNON 89.3FM. Our show, “Pushin’ Praise,” features the freshest sounds in Christian Hip-Hop and Contemporary Gospel.
Our goal is to create a space for DFW Gospel artists and Kingdom creatives to have a voice and showcase their music. Dallas has been lacking a radio home for modern Gospel music, and we aim to fill that gap, providing a platform where artists can share their talents and inspire others.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
What I do across the board has its fair share of challenges. I’ve definitely found myself frustrated a few times, but that’s the cost of being called to make an impact. As a millennial entering the radio space, especially in my genre, it’s a pretty foreign. The pressure is more intense because the DFW area has never had a platform for Christian Hip Hop and Contemporary Gospel that pushes boundaries on terrestrial radio. That’s what I’m fighting for—a place where creatives like myself can have a voice. Unfortunately, some people don’t understand it and dismiss it due to being stuck in their traditional ways. It’s ok because I know God built me for this, and I’ve got some pretty tough skin.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
You never know what to expect when listening to Pushin’ Praise, “It’s very entertaining and spontaneous” says our listeners.
Pushin’ Praise, features the NEWEST and freshest sounds in Christian Hip-Hop and Contemporary Gospel. We interview some of the most gifted Artist, Industry Leaders and creatives in the faith based space on the show. Our goal is to create a space for DFW Gospel artists and Kingdom creatives to have a voice and showcase their music. Dallas has been lacking a radio home for modern Gospel music, and we aim to fill that gap, providing a platform where artists can share their talents and inspire others. Also pushing artist and creatives in the space to operate in excellence when it come to creating in the the genre.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Honestly, if you’re looking to be a part of the show, we will find YOU! The best way you can support us is by tuning in to 89.3 FM on your way to church every Sunday morning at 10 AM. Your support means the world to us, and it’s as simple as keeping your radio on KNON 89.3FM
I’m always on the lookout for new music that’s created with excellence. If you’re an artist or know someone who is, don’t hesitate to tag us on Instagram @WePushinPraise or drop me a DM @IamKeltonJevon. We love discovering fresh sounds and showcasing talent that pushes boundaries in Gospel music.
If you’re interested in having me host one of your events or collaborate musically, you’ll need to get in touch with our management team at KJ Productions. You can find all the contact details you need on our social media accounts. Just reach out, and let’s create something amazing together!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.knon.org/pushin-praise/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wepushinpraise/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WePushinPraise
- Twitter: https://x.com/WePushinPraise
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@WePushinPraise
- Other: https://knon.org
Image Credits
Jared Davis (Jetflix Productions)
