On June 19, 2026, faith-based social impact leader Alvin "Testimony" Bowman will release his new single "You Lift Me Up," featuring Philadelphia MC Karl "Dice Raw" Jenkins and The Choir Boyz. The song serves as a declaration of survival and faith, timed to Juneteenth, a day symbolizing freedom. This release marks the first glimpse into Bowman's forthcoming album "Sticky Notes," set for release on August 17, 2026.
Bowman's journey to this moment is extraordinary. A lacrosse prodigy who earned a Division I scholarship to Drexel University and was later inducted into the university's Athletic Hall of Fame, Bowman's life took a devastating turn when crack cocaine addiction consumed nearly two decades. He experienced homelessness, incarceration, multiple failed rehabilitation attempts, and a gunshot wound to the head in Baltimore in February 2009. However, on December 10, 2014, Bowman found lasting sobriety through faith and community support.
Today, Bowman is over a decade clean and sober, a top-performing sales professional, a masters lacrosse competitor with the Rusty Cannons, and a husband and father. Through his nonprofit organization MindzEye, he develops mentorship and outreach programs for underprivileged youth. He also inspires audiences nationwide through his spoken word brand "Testimony."
The Juneteenth release of "You Lift Me Up" is intentional. "Freedom, in all its forms, runs through every bar," Bowman states. The single features Karl "Dice Raw" Jenkins, longtime collaborator of The Legendary Roots Crew, and The Choir Boyz, whose gospel harmonies elevate the track's message of uplift. The collaboration bridges the faith community and broader cultural conversations about redemption and second chances.
"You Lift Me Up" is the lead single from Bowman's album "Sticky Notes," named after the affirmation notes he placed on his mirror during his darkest recovery days. The album is the artistic expression of those notes, honest and personal, written for anyone needing to hear that restoration is possible. Bowman explains, "This music is my testimony. It gives all glory to God for transforming my life and showing me that redemption is real."
The single will be available on Bandcamp under 'ab.testimony' for supporters and on all streaming platforms beginning June 19. Follow Testimony at @ab.testimony on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube. More information on his story can be found at www.alvintestimonybowman.com.
This release matters because it highlights the power of personal transformation and the role of faith in overcoming adversity. For business and technology leaders, Bowman's story underscores the importance of resilience and second chances in building strong communities and workforces. The message of redemption and the intentional timing of the release on Juneteenth amplify its cultural significance, offering a narrative of hope that resonates across industries and audiences.
