Emanuel Lee Lambert, Jr., known professionally as Da' T.R.U.T.H., is a prominent figure in the realm of Christian rap. A protégé of The Cross Movement, he serves as an urban missionary and is recognized for his numerous accolades in music. Da' T.R.U.T.H. is not only an educated teacher of the Word but also a dynamic artist with a fervent desire to influence a generation through the truth.
Having accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at a young age, Da' T.R.U.T.H. initially engaged with contemporary Christian music but did not show interest in rap until he discovered the appealing elements of the culture. During his teenage years, he began playing drums and found a natural talent for free-style rap, which led him to co-found the Christian hip hop group NIV and adopt the moniker Truth. This marked the beginning of his journey as an urban missionary.
Da' T.R.U.T.H. graduated from Philadelphia Biblical University and The Institute of Jewish Studies. His album, THE FAITH, earned him a Stellar Award for Rap/Hip Hop Gospel CD of the Year in 2007. The album showcased his skills as a co-producer and featured his performances on keyboards and drums, reinforcing his belief that artistry should enhance the message rather than diminish it.
In 2009, Da' T.R.U.T.H. received both a Stellar Award and a Grammy nomination for his album OPEN BOOK. He continued his success with THE BIG PICTURE in 2010, which also won a Stellar Award and received Grammy and Dove Award nominations. Notably, it was the first Christian hip hop album to debut at #1 on the iTunes Christian and Gospel chart and achieved a #2 debut on the Billboard Gospel Charts. Da' T.R.U.T.H. further solidified his status as a hitmaker by being featured on two top 10 singles on the Radio and Records Christian Rhythmic Chart, collaborating with fellow artists The Ambassador on "Feels Good" and Flame on "LADIES."
Da' T.R.U.T.H. has toured extensively, including a notable appearance on Kirk Franklin's "Hero" world tour alongside Mary Mary. He has participated in events such as Bishop T.D. Jakes’ MegaFest, Creation Fest, Rap Fest, Flavor Fest, and others. His television presence includes performances on the 24th Annual Stellar Awards, MTV’s My Super Sweet 16, BET’s Lift Every Voice, TBN, Daystar, and the Gospel Music Channel.
His latest project, THE WHOLE TRUTH, chronicles his journey from brokenness to wholeness, emphasizing how God has restored him along the way. This marks Da' T.R.U.T.H.'s first release with his new label, Xist Music. The album reflects his personal experiences over the past two years, with Da' T.R.U.T.H. stating, “People can expect to hear many of the things that I’ve learned about God and myself over the course of this journey.” He contrasts this with his previous work, THE BIG PICTURE, noting that THE WHOLE TRUTH focuses on his individual redemptive narrative.
Throughout THE WHOLE TRUTH, Da' T.R.U.T.H. shares his life experiences in a straightforward manner, revealing the pain he has faced, the strength he has gained, and the complexities of his character. “I intentionally fixated on the basics because it was the fundamental reality of God’s love, grace, truth, and forgiveness that sustained me through it all,” he explains. He aimed for accessibility, hoping to resonate with both Christian and non-Christian audiences.
The album's lead single, "The Whole Truth," features the vocals of Hillsong Music artist Mia Fieldes. Other standout tracks include "Without God," "God is Good," and "Alive," featuring UK artist Jahaziel, as well as "GO, MISFIT, GO!" which highlights contributions from The Ambassador, Sean Simmonds, Mali Music, and Efrain. A notable moment on the album is Da' T.R.U.T.H.'s duet with CeCe Winans on "Cherished," a song dedicated to his wife and inspired by his desire to replace hurtful words from a difficult time with life-affirming messages. He reflects on his admiration for CeCe, stating, "having her on the record is almost surreal. I am totally humbled and honored."
THE WHOLE TRUTH blends the creativity of hip hop with genuine ministry, aiming to enhance the positive visibility of the Christian hip hop genre. Da' T.R.U.T.H. expresses his commitment to offer a positive alternative to the secular influences in pop culture. “My prayer is that as a community we all grow together in genuine love and fellowship with one another and focus on the things that matter most,” he states. He emphasizes his role as a representation of hope within the genre, reflecting on his journey of resilience and restoration.
Despite his numerous awards and a respected catalog of music, Da' T.R.U.T.H.’s true impact lies in the lives he has touched through his ministry. He expresses a desire to see his new album broaden his reach, allowing him to share uplifting music and convey the heart of God to a wider audience.