DELANEY
&
WRIST

The Story

Bio: A Journey of Music, Brotherhood, and Faith 

Our story began in the 1980s, long before studios, placements, or industry meetings—back when we were serving in the military and playing together in a band. Music bonded us early, and that bond carried into the 1990s as we stepped into production, sharpening our craft and working with gifted artists like Michael Speaks, Elliott Yamin, and Chianti Carpenter. Chianti, part of the group Elon, was signed to a label run by Teddy Riley, and those collaborations pushed our creativity to new levels. 

Over the years, we came close—very close—to placing songs. But doors that looked open would close just as quickly. Looking back, it simply wasn’t in God’s plan at the time. Still, we kept writing, kept producing, and kept believing. What challenged us most wasn’t the music—it was working with artists who, because of life’s pressures, couldn’t finish what they started. Projects stalled, momentum faded, and we found ourselves carrying more weight than we could sustain. 

During our travels, we had moments that felt like destiny. One of the most memorable was our visit to Island Records, meeting with A&R rep Hiram Hicks. We played at least five songs, and the entire room was nodding, vibing, feeling the groove. Then came the questions: “Do you have anything out?” “No, but we would like to.” “Who’s your sponsor?” “We don’t have one.” 

Just like that, the energy shifted. The interest disappeared. The same thing happened later that day at MCA Records. 

Those moments hit hard. After years of pushing, striving, and almost breaking through, we stepped back. And in that pause, something greater happened—we began our walk with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 

Today, our journey isn’t defined by the deals we didn’t get. It’s defined by endurance, brotherhood, creativity, and faith. We’re still here, still creating, still writing, and still trusting God’s timing. Our story is proof that the path may twist, but purpose never dies. 

The Sound

From Sunday morning to Saturday night, Delaney & Wrist move between worlds. Their music carries the weight of lived experience — faith tested, battles fought, and victories won. Every track is a testimony. Built on deep-pocket grooves, soulful melodies, and razor-sharp storytelling, their sound is as comfortable under stained glass as it is under neon lights — a cinematic blend of gospel, hip-hop, and R&B that refuses to choose between the sacred and the street.

Listen