Kierra Sheard: New Judge On BET’s “Sunday Best”

When BET’s “Sunday Best” returns for season seven there will be a new face at the judges’ table.

Gospel music darling Kierra Sheard has joined the competition series as the third judge, replacing CeCe Winans who vacates the show after two seasons.

The Detroit-bred Grammy nominee will judge alongside returning judges Donnie McClurkin and Yolanda Adams on the hit BET series. The show’s vocal coach Kim Burrell also judges during the casting process of the show, which takes place in Houston, Memphis, Atlanta and Washington, DC.

“I’m so excited about being a new judge for ‘Sunday Best,'” Sheard told AlwaysAList.com. “I hope to inspire and confirm the dream with my love and feedback for so many aspiring new artists!”

Kierra Sheard

AlwaysAList.com was on hand in Houston, Texas this past weekend, where Sheard made her debut on the show. Her addition to the show was refreshing and entertaining, as she brought a needed burst of energy and youth to the long-running reality show.

Despite being 26-years-old, Sheard has more than 16-years of experience in the gospel music industry. The daughter of Karen Clark Sheard and the niece of the legendary The Clark Sisters, she was born into a musical dynasty and made her professional debut at 10-years-old singing alongside her mom on Clark Sheard’s solo debut, “Finally Karen.”

Sheard, once known by her nickname “KiKi,” is a Grammy nominee who has released four solo CDs and two mix-tapes. Her 2004 debut, “I Owe You,” was an international crossover hit that was certified gold in Japan.

She’s also no stranger to reality TV, appearing along with her mom, dad Pastor J. Drew Sheard Sr., and brother J. Drew Sheard Jr. on BET’s “The Sheards.” That show will return for its second season this fall.