Marvin Winans facts for kids

Marvin Winans is a famous American singer and pastor. He was born on March 5, 1958. He is part of the well-known Winans family, who are famous for their gospel songs. Marvin Winans was also a member of the music group called The Winans. You might also know him from the TV show Tyler Perry's House of Payne.

Marvin Winans: Life and Music

Early Life and Family

Marvin Winans grew up in Detroit, Michigan. He was born on March 5, 1958. He is the fourth of ten children. His parents, Delores and David Glenn Winans Sr., were also musicians. They were known as "Mom and Pop Winans."

Many of Marvin's brothers and sisters also became singers, writers, and music producers. These include David II, Carvin (Marvin's twin), Benjamin (BeBe), Daniel, Michael, Ronald, Priscilla (CeCe), Deborah (Debbie), and Angelique (Angie).

Starting a Music Career

In the 1970s, Marvin Winans sang with his brothers Ronald, Carvin, and Michael. Their group was first called The Testimonial Singers. They performed for the first time at a high school talent show. In 1975, the group changed its name to The Winans.

The Winans became very popular in the 1980s and 1990s. The famous musician Andrae Crouch discovered them. Their first album as The Winans was called Introducing The Winans, released in 1981.

Music and Awards

The Winans group was greatly inspired by Albertina Walker and her group, The Caravans. Marvin Winans is a talented organist and pianist. He also wrote songs and produced music for The Winans. He also worked on solo projects for his family members and other gospel artists.

In 1985, Marvin Winans won a Grammy Award. He received it for Best Male Soul Gospel Performance. This award was for his singing on the song "Bring Back the Days of Yea and Nay."

Church and Solo Music

Marvin Winans started The Perfecting Church in Detroit, Michigan, in 1989. In 1992, he released an album with his church choir. It was called Introducing Perfected Praise.

In 1997, he founded the Marvin L. Winans Academy of Performing Arts ("WAPA"). This school helps young people learn about the arts.

In 2007, Marvin Winans released his first solo album, Alone, But Not Alone. This album was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary R&B Gospel Album. His fourth album, Marvin L. Winans presents The Praise + Worship Experience, came out on June 26, 2012. It was recorded at his church and featured many other gospel artists.

On February 18, 2012, Marvin Winans gave the eulogy at Whitney Houston's funeral. He and some of his family members sang The Winans' song "Tomorrow" at the service.

In 2025, Marvin Winans was featured on Justin Bieber's album Swag. He sang his song "Forgiveness". This song was a new version of "Lord, I Lift Your Name on High" by Rick Founds. "Forgiveness" was very successful. It reached number 1 on the Billboard Hot Gospel Songs chart. It also reached number 3 on the Hot Christian Songs chart.

Marvin Winans: Personal Life

Marvin Winans was married to gospel singer Viviane "Vickie" Winans for 16 years. They divorced in 1995. His sons, Marvin Jr. (Coconut) and Josiah Winans, are also in the music business. His stepson, Mario "Skeeter" Winans, is a producer and R&B singer.

Josiah Winans is a music producer. Marvin Jr. was once part of the group Winans Phase 2. He is now a solo artist, a producer, and a pastor.

Marvin Winans married Dr. Deneen Carter in April 2022.

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