He holds several degrees, including a music degree from Alameda College, a Master of Divinity from Faith Bible College, and a Doctorate of Ministry in Sacred music from Friends International Christian University. His music career began following time spent in the United States Air Force. He was originally with a group called The Mellow Fellows, but family issues caused him to leave the group. His critical success came in 1992 when "Lift Him Up" became the fastest selling worship album to that point. "Welcome Home" produced by Tom Brooks was also critically acclaimed, becoming "Billboard"'s Top contemporary worship music album, and winning a Gospel Music Association Dove Award for "Praise and Worship Album" in 1997. He was signed to Integrity Music, but is no longer recording for them.