Russell Dean spent years in country and rock music before rededicating his life to God in 1990. That year, he decided to focus his energies on Gospel music; he now keeps up an active concert schedule and writes the music he sings.

Russell and Diane Dean have four children. Their oldest, Brandon, was born in 1987, and is mentally disabled due to a complex seizure disorder. Their second oldest (and only daughter), Michelle, is involved throughout the ministry, helping with everything from websites to wardrobe. Their two youngest, Isaac and Cade, are six and three.
  
Once, when he was asked what his ministry's focus was, Dean said: “I could focus on secular rock music and the dangers of drugs and alcohol. I could focus on raising a mentally disabled son for 21 years and standing by my wife through the good, the bad and the ugly times for 23 years and how to keep your marriage happy and strong. I could even talk to small business owners about how to run a business where the employees and customers alike see and admire your integrity and moral standards. Or on being a godly example to your kids, friends and local church. Building a ministry whose sole purpose is to edify and glorify God. Or financial ups and downs. Mental and physical depression.”

He continued, "I could focus on any of these things, but it all comes back to one thing. The most important thing in life is Jesus. ... My focus is Jesus and helping others find Him and teaching them to trust and love Him."