Today we’d like to introduce you to Robert Mercer.
Hi Robert, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Rob Mercer is a fresh wind of urban contemporary Christian soul with incredibly, inspiring vocals and lyrics of love & triumph! As early as the age of four, the platform was set for Rob to carry this message. A native of Jacksonville, Florida, he became a regular opening act for many gospel greats including Ron Winans, James Cleveland, Edwin Hawkins & Yolanda Adams. Upon entering Hampton University, his voice and leadership would soon grant him the roles of Student Director of the school’s His Chosen Sound Gospel Chorale and a lead soloist with the famed Concert Choir. In 2001, Rob sang at the historic Kennedy Center in Washington, DC where he performed the Carlton Burgess classic, “Greater is He.” The next year, he would travel to Johannesburg, South Africa to conduct a Gospel music workshop for the Ajamica performing arts students.
With his 2006 CD release, Rob Mercer with Friends – A Brother’s Worship on his K.A.M.G. (Kingdom Access Music Group) label, Rob demonstrated his love for others in the Christian community by collaborating with fellow independent artists. This collection of artists out of the Washington, DC area showcased their vocal, lyric, and musical arranging abilities with a standing room-only live recording. It was a bold and conscientious CD presenting the message of Christ to people of all races and backgrounds. Rob has a passion for people. I asked God to give me songs that would encourage people to never give up,” says Rob. “I know what doubt, depression & defeat feels like. I’ve been there but “Amazingly”, God completely turned it for my good.”
In 2009, Rob embarked upon a 12-week, 12-city tour across the US. He would later be invited to London, England for performances at the Hob and the famed London Jazz Café. In 2012, Rob released his debut solo CD, THE PHOTO ALBUM. His lead singles, AMAZINGLY, and GOD ALONE received rave reviews. With production from noted CCM recording artist, Antonio Neal, the CD’s melody & message continues to inspire and change a generation. In 2014, he traveled to Sydney, Australia to record YOU RAISED ME UP with Tim Moxey (Australia’s The Voice) for an even more powerful global impact. Their duet reached #2 on iTunes Australia.
In 2016, Rob was invited to do a concert and missions in The Gambia, West Africa. God positioned him to invite two incredible men of worship, CD Porter and Javon Inman. Kingdom purpose collided with the three award-winning solo artists in West Africa and DRK 2 LGHT – a brotherhood of ministry, music, and laughter was officially formed. The gentlemen kicked the door down with their 2020 debut single HE KEEPS ON –gaining a considerable following via global radio & internet stations and social media. Their follow-up single FIX MY HEART would soar to #3 on the Billboard Gospel Indicator Charts and remain top 5 for 7 weeks. Together, these singles have over 250K Spotify streams, 70K+ VEVO official music video views and a 2021 WAMMIE (Washington Area Music Award) for Best Gospel/Inspirational Artist/Group – solidifying DRK 2 LGHT as a mainstay in gospel music. Their brand new single, WHAT”S MINE IS MINE, is a declaration for every listener to embrace their divine inheritance and stand firm in their purpose. For Rob, whether leading worship at his church, Alfred Street Baptist in Alexandria, VA, singing with his brothers on stages across the world or spending time at home with his family, his prayer is – “Wherever I am in life, may it be a picture of me that makes God smile.”
Rob Mercer currently resides in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, respectively. He along with DRK 2 LGHT can be reached on all social media @drk2lghtmsc.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been smooth but it has been a complete joy. The last 9 years (officially 5) with DRK 2 LGHT have been especially good times. Iron does indeed sharpen iron. I would say the biggest struggle for me and any indie artist is fighting for space in the crowded music industry. Major record labels control a lot of access so it takes much prayer, faith and work to carve your way independently.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
One of the best things about my time in music are all of the international experiences I have had. I LOVE to travel and explore the world. I’ve been to 65 countries, all 7 continents and seen all seven wonders of the world. Musically, I’ve had opportunities to sing in London, Johannesburg, Australia and The Gambia, West Africa. I feel incredibly blessed that God allowed my passion for travel and music to marry.
How do you think about happiness?
Family, Music and Travel – in that order – make me happy! I am team family. I believe family is God’s number one love. Music gives me comfort, healing, goosebumps, a dancing spirit, smiles and a whole lot of love. Travel is the icing on the cake. The world is a book. A person who doesn’t travel remains on page one.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @drk2lghtmsc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRobMercer
- Youtube: @drk2lghtvevo174
