About Me
Also known as Minister Blessed, Matthew Blake was born on October 22nd, 1985 at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Jamaica. Raised in a Christian and musical environment, his involvement in music and acceptance of Christ came at an early age. His junior years thus saw him singing with school/church groups, choirs, and notably performing a solo at the ‘Psalty Singing Song Book Production’ at the National Arena (Jamaica) in 1995.
Influenced by Papa San’s gospel ministry, Matthew founded a 5 member group dubbed ‘The Blessed Group’ in 1999. With 3 members providing the musical accompaniment, he and his cousin R.A.K (as deejays) led the group to win the Jamaica Youth For Christ deejay competition at all presented levels: 1) Regional (Bridgeport), 2) Parish (St. Catherine), and 3) National. The group went on to grace several stages including Gospel ‘N’ Motion and Genesis. Due to expanded responsibilities and migration however, the ‘Blessed Group’ disintegrated in June, 2002.
After much contemplation and fervent prayer, Matthew launched his solo career under the name ‘Blessed’ in the latter part of the year 2002. This venture paved the way for his ministry at notable events such as Xtreme Impact, Rise To Christ, Salvation PHD, C.I.A, Gospel N Motion, Genesis, and his annual concert - Operation Consecration. In August 2005, Blessed teamed up with producer Dale ‘Dr.Dizzle’ Virgo to release his first single entitled ‘Dandy Shandy’. Thereafter, he appeared on Virgo’s two compilation projects: 1) The Mainframe Riddim with the song King Jesus Reigns (featuring Garfield Reid) & 2) Spirit Scription – with songs: Problems, You A God & Dance (where Blessed is featured by Garfield Reid).
Five years after his birth into solo ministry (December 22, 2007), Minister Blessed has released his debut album. Entitled ‘Purpose’, the album delves into the biblical analogy that everything happens for a reason, as God achieves His purpose for our lives. With 15 original tracks, Blessed takes gospel reggae to another level, spitting lyrics on dancehall, reggaeton, hip-hop, roots reggae and traditional rhythms. The album was produced by Dale ‘Dr. Dizzle’ Virgo, and has several hits, including ‘Dandy Shandy’, ‘Hallelujah’, ‘Testimony’, ‘Alright Then’ & the title track ‘Purpose’. The album also sees Blessed collaborating with 5 artistes; namely Danah Cameron, DJ Nicholas, Garfield Reid, Sons Of The Prophet & Ryan ‘Prodigy’ Mark.
Since his album release in Jamaica, Matthew (Blessed) has toured the United States covering areas such as New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. As he perseveres in ministry, and allows God to use him for HIS purpose; we ask that you pray for him, encourage him, and support him. More than entertainment – he is Minister Blessed!
