When the conversation turns to musical influences, not many groups are likely to mention Michael Buble, Beethoven, Stevie Wonder and flamenco music in the same breath. But it’s diversity that inspires them, not to mention their unique faith backgrounds that makes new Fervent artist Group 1 Crew stand out in a crowd.
And if their hybrid of hip-hop, rock, funk, soul and even Spanish-language rhymes wasn’t enough to distinguish Group 1 Crew on its highly anticipated debut, their impassioned message of hope and encouragement can’t help but set them apart—especially in a genre of music that typically glamorizes violence, the degradation of women and the acquisition of all the luxuries money can buy.
But even more important than serving up a collection of cool songs for the masses, Group 1 Crew’s Manwell Reyes, Pablo Villatoro and Blanca Reyes (no relation to Manwell) has one, unified purpose. Unlike many popular groups where members individually vie for the spotlight, Group 1 Crew wanted its name to have a singular message that communicates the band’s desire to shine the love of Christ through the power of song.