»It is more than one of those twists of fate
that brought two people from opposite sides of the globe together in
marriage and in a music ministry. The pop band SOZO consists of former
Newsboys keyboardist Corey Pryor and solo performer, Danielle. Their
debut release, "Purity," on N*Soul Records displays a Euro-pop/dance
style and a potent message of living pure by the grace of God.
"In the 90's, teens have a lot of temptations that are thrown their
way. Our desire is to demonstrate to young people everywhere just how
powerful a life with Jesus Christ can be," Danielle explained.
The aspiration to spread the Gospel came at an early age for the talented
couple as both Danielle and Corey are preacher's kids. Corey, a native
of south Australia, grew up under the supervision of a father who was
a pastor. He began to play the keyboards at the age of 13, and at the
age of 18, became a member of the Newsboys. Although the initial request
to join the Newsboys United States tour was denied by my Mom, I toured
with the group for three and a half years, Corey said. While Corey was
busy performing with the Newsboys, Danielle was on stage singing in
another part of the world. Growing up in Grand Forks, North Dakota,
Danielle's dream was to become a singer. I sang to my teacher and principal
when I was four years old, she said. I traveled and performed with youth
groups, my goal always was to be on a record label. I know now that
God was preparing me. Danielle and her mother, who became a Christian
upon reading a Gospel track, prayed for her father daily for two years.
Their prayer and Bible studies in the basement made an impact. Not long
after her father accepted Christ, the family moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma
and there her father became a pastor. Danielle made her first solo appearance
before 400 people at the age of seven. She launched her music career
when she was 17, recording the album, Transformation, and sharing the
stage with such artists as Phil Driscoll, Reba Rambo, and Donny McGuire.
The husband and wife band works together in music, ministry, and life.
We work together as a team, Danielle explained.
Instead of fighting, we communicate by trying to understand each other's
point of view. Corey and Danielle's relationship with each other transcends
the theme of their debut release, "Purity." As Christians
we are called to live a pure life before God in every way, Corey said.
We want kids to know that they can live a pure life through Jesus Christ.
With music that both encourages and exhorts, SOZO's "Purity"
provides a refreshing light in a dark world. There are many ways for
this generation to be snared by Satan's power and we will use the gifts
God has given us to reach a world in need with the Gospel in these last
days, Corey said.«
