
Kierra Sheard-Kelly is a celebrated American gospel singer, songwriter, actress, author, and fashion designer. Known for her powerhouse vocals and deep-rooted family legacy in gospel music, she has carved out a unique space as one of the most influential gospel artists of her generation. Beyond music, she is also a role model for young Christians, inspiring audiences through her ministry, business ventures, and philanthropic work.
Quick Facts about Kierra Sheard-Kelly
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Kierra Valencia Sheard-Kelly |
Date of Birth | June 20, 1987 |
Age | 38 years (as of 2025) |
Nationality | American |
Place of Birth | Detroit, Michigan, USA |
Occupation | Gospel Singer, Songwriter, Actress, Author, Fashion Designer |
Known For | Songs like Indescribable, You Don’t Know, and Something Has to Break |
Net Worth | Estimated $8 million – $10 million |
Parents | Bishop J. Drew Sheard and Karen Clark Sheard |
Grandmother | Dr. Mattie Moss Clark |
Spouse | Jordan Kelly (married 2020) |
Children | None (as of 2025) |
Awards | Stellar Awards, Dove Awards, Grammy nominations |
Years Active | 2004 – Present |
Early Life and Background
Kierra Valencia Sheard was born on June 20, 1987, in Detroit, Michigan, into one of gospel music’s most influential families. She is the daughter of Karen Clark Sheard, a member of the legendary gospel group The Clark Sisters, and Bishop J. Drew Sheard, pastor of Greater Emmanuel Institutional Church of God in Christ.
Her grandmother, Dr. Mattie Moss Clark, is credited with revolutionizing the sound of gospel choirs, which means Kierra grew up surrounded by music and ministry. She began singing at an early age in church and quickly developed a reputation for her powerful voice.
Family Life
Kierra Sheard-Kelly married Jordan Kelly in December 2020 in a beautiful ceremony that celebrated faith, love, and family. The couple continues to inspire many with their Christ-centered relationship.

Though she does not yet have children, Kierra has expressed her desire to one day raise a family grounded in faith, just as her parents and grandparents nurtured her.
Music Career
Early Start and Breakthrough
Kierra’s music journey began as a teenager when she appeared on her mother’s albums and live performances. At just 15 years old, she signed with Elektra Records and released her debut album, I Owe You (2004). The album established her as a rising star in gospel music.
Continued Success
Over the years, Kierra has released multiple albums, blending traditional gospel with contemporary sounds to reach younger audiences. Some of her most popular works include:
- This Is Me (2006) – featuring the hit single Why Me?.
- Bold Right Life (2008).
- Free (2011).
- Graceland (2014) – nominated for a Grammy Award.
- Kierra (2020) – featuring her acclaimed single Something Has to Break with her mother, Karen Clark Sheard.
Her music consistently charts on Billboard Gospel Charts, earning her recognition as one of the leading voices in gospel today.
Acting and Media Work
Kierra has also appeared in film and television, including playing her mother, Karen Clark Sheard, in the 2019 Lifetime biopic “The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel”, which received critical acclaim.
Other Ventures
Aside from music, Kierra is a fashion designer and founder of the clothing line Eleven60, created to empower plus-size women with stylish and faith-inspired fashion.
She is also an author, having written the book Big, Bold, and Beautiful: Owning the Woman God Made You to Be (2021), where she shares her journey of faith, self-love, and confidence.
As a minister, she frequently speaks at Christian events and youth conferences, encouraging young people to embrace holiness, confidence, and purpose.
Achievements
Kierra Sheard-Kelly’s career is marked by numerous awards and recognitions:
- Multiple Stellar Awards for her music.
- Dove Award wins and nominations.
- Grammy Award nominations, particularly for her albums Graceland and Kierra.
- Recognized as one of the top gospel artists bridging the gap between generations.
- Starred in The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel, which became Lifetime’s highest-rated original movie of 2020.

Net Worth
As of 2025, Kierra Sheard-Kelly has an estimated net worth of $8 million – $10 million. Her wealth comes from:
- Album sales and live performances.
- Acting and media appearances.
- Her clothing brand, Eleven60.
- Book sales and speaking engagements.
Her ability to diversify her talents beyond music has made her one of the most successful gospel artists of her generation.
Legacy and Impact
Kierra Sheard-Kelly continues to inspire people worldwide with her music, ministry, and authenticity. She is respected not only as a singer but also as a woman of faith who uses her platform to address issues such as self-worth, confidence, and godly living.
Her legacy is deeply connected to the Clark family’s gospel heritage, yet she has carved her own unique path, reaching a new generation with timeless messages of faith and hope.
Conclusion
Kierra Sheard-Kelly is a shining example of talent, faith, and perseverance. From her early beginnings in Detroit to becoming an award-winning gospel singer, actress, and entrepreneur, she embodies what it means to use one’s gifts for God’s glory. With a voice that moves hearts and a message that inspires, she continues to build on the powerful legacy of her family while creating her own enduring impact.
FAQs
In this section, I will provide you with FAQs and answers on Kierra Sheard-Kelly Biography. Keep on reading friend.
1. Who is Kierra Sheard-Kelly?
Kierra Sheard-Kelly is an American gospel singer, songwriter, actress, author, and fashion designer, known for her powerful voice and family legacy in gospel music.
2. How old is Kierra Sheard-Kelly?
She is 38 years old as of 2025.
3. Is Kierra Sheard-Kelly married?
Yes, she is married to Jordan Kelly since 2020.
4. What is Kierra Sheard-Kelly’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is between $8 million – $10 million.
5. What are some of her popular songs?
Some of her most notable songs include Indescribable, You Don’t Know, and Something Has to Break.
6. Does Kierra Sheard-Kelly own a fashion brand?
Yes, she is the founder of Eleven60, a clothing line designed for plus-size women.
7. Has Kierra Sheard-Kelly won any awards?
Yes, she has received multiple Stellar Awards, Dove Awards, and Grammy nominations throughout her career.
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