By Sewe Ishola,

Gospel Tasha Cobbs Leonard has reacted to the criticism that has followed the release of her fourth Album, which featured rapper, Nicki Minaj on one of the tracks.

The worship leader, who released her fourth album Heart. Passion. Pursuit. on Friday had this to say about the collaboration:

“I’ve seen the Nicki that is off the stage and that Nicki has a great relationship with God,” Cobbs said. “My assignment with this song was for a particular audience. Some [of the listeners] have never experienced God ever and she exposed that audience in her way, to the God that she loves.”

“The testimonies that have come because of this —I would absolutely do it again. I’ve had thousands of people say to me ‘This is the first time I’ve ever bought a gospel album. This is first time I’ve ever felt God. I didn’t believe in God until I heard this song.’”

“This is not an assignment that man gave to me. This is an assignment that God gave to me, and He prepared the way for me, as only God could,” she added.

As usual, the album had her distinctive sound and God-inspired message that journeys to the depths of worship and captures the power of a heart lifted in praise. The album was recorded live in studio and instead of using traditional background vocalists she asked worship leaders from churches across the nation to join her.

“That was one of the most special parts because I have a huge heart for worship leaders and leaders of our generation around the world and to see so many of us come together was amazing. Everybody’s personality just kind of meshed. You had strong leaders all in one room and there was no confusion or conflict. It was just amazing,” Leonard told ESSENCE.