Early Life
On March 21, 1995, Chandler David Moore was born in Charleston, South Carolina, to Elder Jametta Chandler Moore and Bishop Brian David Moore. Born into a pastor’s household, he grew up with a passion for worship. He started following Jesus on a personal level when he was twelve years old, frequently answering altar calls during revival gatherings.
His time as a music director at a small church marked a significant spiritual turning point: “I had a radical encounter with the Lord… crying for hours, just in His presence.” His passion to worship and the Bible was strengthened by this life-changing experience.
A Musical Adventure and Ascent to Fame
During his early career, Chandler contributed as a songwriter for musicians such as Bri Babineaux and worked as a background vocalist for Travis Greene and Tye Tribbett.
He was a co-founder of Maverick City Music in 2019, a group dedicated to elevating a variety of worship voices. He appeared on popular tracks such as:
- The #1 gospel smash and two-and-a-half-platinum single “Man of Your Word” (Billboard Hot Christian Songs #18),
- “Voice of God” with Dante Bowe and Steffany Gretzinger, “Jireh” (with Elevation Worship & Naomi Raine), and
- “Wait on You” with Dante Bowe—an additional #1 gospel song, certified Gold.
He co-wrote “Kingdom” with Kirk Franklin and Maverick City, which was recorded live in a prison and went on to win the Grammy for Best Gospel Performance/Song.
Individual Achievement & Partnerships
Feelings, Chandler’s first solo album, peaked at number four on Billboard’s list of the Top Gospel Albums in 2020. His 2024 single “Lead Me On” and 2023 collaboration project The Maverick Way maintained his chart momentum.
Chandler’s versatility is demonstrated by his collaborations with popular musicians like Ciara, Tori Kelly, and Justin Bieber in addition to worship music.
Honours and Acknowledgment
- Old Church Basement (together with Maverick City/Elevation Worship) won a Grammy; other Grammys include collaborations.
- Gospel Worship Recorded Song for “Voice of God” and Worship Song for “Jireh” are among the nominees for the Dove Award.
- Billboard No. 1 Gospel Songs: “Wait on You” and “Jireh”
Chandler Moore does not have Nigerian ancestry or nationality.
He was born and reared by American parents in Charleston, South Carolina, USA; his father is well-known American preacher Bishop Brian David Moore. Despite having an African-American upbringing and a strong appreciation for various forms of worship, including African music, he has neither a public record nor a personal claim to be Nigerian or of Nigerian descent.
Having said that, Chandler has:
- Worked closely with Nigerian gospel culture, contributing to songs like Maverick City Music’s “Omemma” (an Igbo phrase meaning “The One who does good”).
- Conducted in Africa, particularly in Ghana and Nigeria.
- During interviews and tours, they conveyed their profound appreciation for Nigerian devotion and energy.
Despite not being Nigerian, he is adored by Nigerian gospel fans and has used his music to celebrate Nigerian religious sentiments.
Individual Life & Persistent Impact
Chandler, his wife Hannah, and their three kids—Chandler II, River, and Krue—live in Dallas, Texas. Gospel leaders attended the couple’s June 2021 wedding, which was characterized by passionate reflections.
Chandler joined the Sons of Sunday supergroup in 2024, joining members like Steven Furtick and Brandon Lake.
His Igbo-inspired song “Omemma” became viral, influencing listeners in Ghana and Nigeria and garnering over 13.5 million Spotify plays.
Legacy and Vision
Chandler’s goal is to break down the unwritten rules of modern Christian and gospel music while fusing spirituality with a variety of cultural expressions. He promotes relationships over notoriety, ministry over performance, and sincerity over flair.
Chandler Moore is still a prominent voice in forming contemporary worship culture, stirring hearts, breaking down barriers, and using music to proclaim God’s Kingdom, whether she is leading worship in small groups or packed arenas.
