RON KENOLY: A LIFE OF DEVOTED TO WORSHIP, MUSIC AND FAITH
“Lift Him Up” was the album that took Ron Kenoly’s name global and made people around the world associate his name with true worship and praise. But what many didn’t know was that “Lift Him Up” was actually his second album. Around the world most believers consider his songs as not just tracks on a CD or on a streaming platform, they’re considered to be actual live services bringing real encounters with God while listening to them. We’d like to briefly consider the life and ministry of the legend and icon of Gospel praise and worship Ron Kenoly.
Ron was born on December 6th 1044, in Coffeyville Kansas, a city named after Colonel James Coffey in 1869. Ron started his music journey at a young age in church and community setting which helped develop his love for music. As most musicians, he went through phases of development through influences by different genres like R&B, Soul, Traditional Gospel, after which he finally settled for Gospel praise and worship.
Ron tried other styles of music in secular music and even served in the US Air Force before becoming widely known as a worship leader. These experiences helped shape him and sharpen his vocal and performance skills. He chose to be a worshipper and lead praise because he wanted his music to be much more than just entertainment but to become a ministry to God and people.
stepping into the spotlight
The 80s and 90s brought about a surge in the contemporary gospel praise and worship genre with a lot of great music from record labels like Maranatha Music and others. Ron Kenoly’s album “Lift Him Up” was the catalyst to bring him into the spotlight and international music popularity. This wasn’t his first debut. His first was “Jesus Is Alive” which was a success and a vehicle to introduce him to the public.
He would go on to record other successful albums like “God Is Able”, “Welcome Home”. “Majesty” and others which would do well also. His relationship with the record label Integrity Music was also a great opportunity for him as they provided the production and distribution for his music and ministry to thrive. Throughout his life Ron has travelled round the world to minister in music in Africa, Asia, Latin America and so many other places.
passing on
Ron Kenoly passed on on 3rd February 2026. He will be remembered by the millions he has inspired to praise and worship God and aslo to become praise and worship ministers themselves.