A multi-instrumentalist, producer and vocalist for the soulful black gospel group Commissioned during the 1980s and '90s, Fred Hammond also became one of the most popular praise & worship leaders in the field. Born in Detroit, Hammond began singing with his church choir at the age of twelve. He played bass and sang with the Winans during the early '80s, then joined Commissioned later in the decade, showcasing his superb arranging, production and songwriting skill as well as his soaring vocals.