Frank McGee III’s Detroit roots run through Kept Through It All: Live in Detroit, a project grounded in the testimony and perseverance of Young Men 4 Christ. Recorded live in the Motor City, the album channels the immediacy of a communal worship service — soaring praise, lived-in conviction and the kind of call-and-response energy that cannot be recreated in a studio.
For McGee and the group, the title speaks to a faith forged under pressure. He spoke of needing to lean on his faith more when moving to Sacramento with no resources. As a young adjusting to personal responsibility and living independently he admits that life was lifing" in the Motor City, beckoning a change in scenary. The "just Jesus" leap of faith he took was huge -- no job, no residence, no friends awaited him when he arrived on the West Coast. Yet he trusts God and secured a job working with children and his family later joined him.
The songs on the album reflect the belief that, regardless of hardship or uncertainty, God remains present to sustain, strengthen and carry His people forward. That message gives the live recording its emotional center, turning personal and collective experiences into a worship statement rooted in resilience.
The project also brings a range of featured voices into the fold. “Wait on Jesus” features Keisha Lockett, while Nate Martin appears on “Put Your Trust in Jesus.” Lil’ Harry joins the group on “He’s a Wonder.” Produced by Anthony Stanford and McGee, Kept Through It All: Live in Detroit balances the scale of contemporary gospel performance with the intimacy of testimony.
A Detroit Moment
Because McGee is a Detroit native, the conversation ended on a lighter note: If he could be any car, what would he choose?
His answer: a Wagoneer truck.
“I like that it’s roomy,” McGee said, noting that he is also drawn to its look. It is a fitting answer from an artist whose work makes room for big emotion, collective praise and a Detroit-bred sense of presence.