Kim Burrell is an artists' artist.

Known for her intricate vocal arrangements and her ability to do acrobatics with her voice, the Houston-bred gospel singer has become the vocalist that singers of various genres name as their favorite.

From Jessica Simpson to Chaka Khan, Justin Timberlake to Tyrese, and Harry Connick Jr. to Beyonce; Burrell's popularity among the mainstream is so significant that during a MTV special on the film 'The Fighting Temptations,' the network recognized her by showcasing countless artists reciting her name when asked who was their favorite singer.

The 35-year-old singer is humbled by the respect she's earned from her peers.

"I believe God has given it to me because he can trust me to make good of this gift. I'm truly honored and favored to have it. Very grateful," she said.

After the underground success of her independent album, 'Try Me Again' (1995), Burrell released two critically acclaimed albums for Tommy Boy – 'Everlasting Life' (1998) and 'Live in Concert' (2001).

Since then, she has also made numerous cameos on albums by Stevie Wonder, Missy Elliott, Hezekiah Walker, VaShawn Mitchell, R. Kelly, Shirley Caesar, Kirk Whalum, Ricky Dillard and numerous others.

Most recently, it was announced that the raspy-toned contralto would be featured on funk legend George Clinton's forthcoming album.

"Mr. Clinton asked several artists about me and low and behold, me and Tye Tribbett were working on his current album at the time in Houston and George Clinton walks in. He wanted to meet me. He then asked me to be on his album. I am so excited about that! Genuinely," she expressed.

While collaborative efforts have kept fans content during the seven years its been since Burrell released fresh material, followers constantly ask the singer: "When are you releasing a new CD?"

"I plan to record several albums in the coming year," she offered. "I will in fact begin that journey this year. Live at the Lincoln Center [in New York City] is my hope. We are scheduled for December 2008."

In the meantime, Burrell wants to use her knowledge of music and her passion for gospel ministry to enlighten others.

On July 30 – Aug 2, she will host her third 'Ephesians 4: This is my story...this is my sound' conference in Houston.

"The conference started from a revelation from God through his Word according to this chapter. When I read it God told me to do a clarion call to the beloved. Remind the world of ministry to remember not to forget the true essence of sensitive, God fearing ministry and how to execute it," she explained.

And while conferences seem to be the new fad in the gospel and Christian industry, Burrell believes that the sole purpose of hers makes it stand apart among the others.

"My direction and purpose for this conference is to deliberately challenge the accomplished (artists) to purposely and purposefully help to change the lives of the 'up and coming.' By doing so, we have set up one-on-one experiences with the elite in ministry as well as professionals in the business to bring clarity to unanswered questions for success," she shared, before adding: "Ultimately I want the participants to know that they have been empowered and equipped to better serve God and man."

Industry heavyweights like Richard Smallwood, Tye Tribbett, Darkchild producer Fred Jerkins, Donnie McClurkin, Jonathan Nelson, Byron Cage and others have signed on to facilitate sessions during 'Ephesians 4.'

Additionally, Burrell aims to take the conference on the road and expand its reach internationally as well.

"Starting in February of 2009, we will begin what we call 'Ephesians 4' regionals. We will go to Savannah, Ga. for our first regional experience. We will later travel to Amsterdam to share this experience as well," she said.

For details on the conference and other Burrell activities, go to www.Ephesians4.net.

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VIDEO: Check out this video of Kim Burrell singing Richard Smallwood's ' Calvary .'