I’m saddened to report the passing of Pastor Shawn Brown, former co-director of the dynamic gospel choir Youthful Praise, and writer of hits like “Awesome God” (Youthful Praise) and “Grateful” (Hezekiah Walker & LFC). He was also known for his work with gospel group Key Of David.
The industry mourns his passing but celebrates his life. Please pray for his family, his church, the members of Key Of David, and for JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise.










I will be praying....
He will be sorely missed but his gift to the ministry continues to be appreciated.
He was an awesome writer who had the ability to pen songs that actually moved the heart of GOD. Though some of his songs became very popular as they were recorded by artists such as Youthful Praise and Hezekiah Walker, he'd written hundreds of songs that he'd never recorded. Only he, the Lord and a few friends knew about them. He was a dynamic choir director who was known for not just his incomparable work with Youthful Praise but for his expertise with any aggregation he stood in front of. In fact, choirs and ensembles would call him in to "whip them into shape" before their recordings or live performances. He was strict, stern and quite disciplined in his musicianship. Everyone knew when Shawn Brown was directing a song or ministering praise and worship they would be led into an awareness of the tangible presence of GOD. A worshipper he was, on and off the stage and it was evident that he and GOD had a special connection. He was a prophet who carried the word of the Lord in his mouth and a pastor who cared for and loved his flock. He was a dear friend of mine and i will miss him until i see him again! Rest in peace, Shawn Brown! I love you, Maestro
This is such horrible news too hear. I met Pastor Shawn a few years back and he was such a nice man. I really feel bad about this, but I know that God knows what he is doing.... You will be missed Shawn!
OMG, I am such MAJOR and TOTAL Shock to hear of the passing of Pastor Brown. My soul celebrates that he doesn't have to endure life's trials and struggles. Even tho my heart is heavy for his family and his group and YP I'm still saying Won't It Be Wonderful over there. He's reached where I want to go when life is done down here. RIP
So sorry to hear about his passing...Does anybody know what happaned?
My condolence to the family, friends and Church family of Pastor Shawn Brown (in spite of it all God is yet an Awesome God)
My heart goes out to the family you are in my prayers, words cannot substitute the loss of a loved one but he was a awesome man of God and I can only pray that I get to were he is one day may God give you strength during your time of berevement and I love you very much your sister trisa.
Yes, I know exactly what happened... God called him home to eternal reward. Period. Amen. No questions.
I dont think that Kayla meant any harm in asking what happened. I dont know why people act so funny when it comes t this stuff. Why wouldnt we want to know. Its human nature to be curious and concerned. Anyway. Rest in peace brother.
Thank You Angelique. I was curious because he was young. I didn't really know how to reply to Eula's answer because I wasn't trying to be rude in asking. Thanks Again Rest In Peace Pastor Brown
Kayla, Not to be disrespectful, but just because you are young, you are not invisible. This reminds me of Pastor Greg Laurie's son when he passed away a couple of years ago. Yes, he was young and was married and had a child and another who was on the way at the time--and just this week, Brian Burke, who's is the general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs lost a son on yesterday (Friday). He was also in the prime of life too, his life had promise as well. But this should let us know that we don't know the hour or when we are going to die, and all of us whether we are young or old are going to enter eternity. And especially when you have Jesus as Christopher and Pastor Brown they were ready to see heaven. (I'm not trying to be preachy here). But on the subject, my prayers are for Pastor Brown's family, the Youthful Praise family and JJ Harrison as they go through this period of grief and our Lord will comfort them and put his loving arms around all of them.
He was a 40+ single man who was a pastor and musician. That will lend itself to gossip - not necessarily as a reflection on his character but more so as a reflection on the gospel industry and the black church. But in this time, let us as a body remember that gossip is a sin - especially when very few, if any, of us can claim to know the man's heart. We gotta be in prayer for his family and his flock.
I am in shock to hear of my cousin's death. He sang so wonderfully at my mothers funeral a few years ago--he did an awesome job. He will be missed.
I was an honor to experience the greatness that God placed in him. Until we meet again Pastor Brown. Love you. R.I.P.
Shawn was an awesome songwriter. I will miss him greatly. I am a member of The Key of David. Shawn made sure we were the group to look out for and to admire:-) I am greatful to have known and work with such a gift. I love you very much and will always acknowledge you in my music career. Love, Stank
Shawn was an awesome songwriter and godfather to me. I still miss his presence surrounding me from when i was little. He will and always be missed. Love you goddaddy.