I'm a gospel artist that doesn't like to perform | A confession

I have a confession. I’m sure you know what it is based on the title of this post, but I assure you there’s a lot more to it than meets the eye. Let me explain.

I contemplated doing a video on this, but I read a quote today that says, “Writing is the best way to talk without being interrupted”, so here I am.

ALL MY LIFE I wanted to sing. I wanted nothing more than to entertain, share, uplift and encourage the souls of people through song. When asked by mother what I wanted to be when I grew up, I insisted that I was going to be a gospel singer, despite her efforts to get me to have a backup plan. I wasn’t having it.

I wake up out of my sleep with melodies in my head. I daydream of visuals for songs I’ve written. I’ve prayed, fasted, and sacrificed my life (literally) to fulfill the assignment of music that I have on me and if given the opportunity, I’d do it all again.

Let me be clear, I LOVE to sing and usher people into the presence of God. That will FOREVER be a source of joy for me. When I say I’m a gospel artist that does not like to perform I am referring to submitting to the rules of the industry.

As I’ve grown in my music ministry, gaining popularity, and mingling among the who’s who of gospel music has drained me and my love for being a musician. Naturally, I am an introvert, so walking into a room and introducing myself to people I should know has never been a desire of mine. Navigating relationships, developing quick discernment (and reflexes) when male industry professionals slide in my DM’s has made me guarded and even more reserved (thank God for my husband and father). I don’t dress like the average female gospel singer; I struggle at putting on lashes and you’ll probably catch me in a prayer veil (it’s a veil NOT a doily) when I’m singing.

I stick out like a sore thumb.

Every gospel artist does not perform. I’ve met many who are dedicated to God and are focused on simply doing what He told them to do and nothing more. But the pressure to be, think like, talk like, look like, sound like and all the aforementioned is heavy.

Through the years I have taken the time to learn the industry and to stay before God for His direction. Doing this has revealed to me one very important thing. YOU DON’T HAVE TO CONFORM. As a matter of fact, we are commanded to not be conformed to this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2).

Focusing on Jesus and obeying His word has enlightened me to creative ideas and strategies that have blessed my music ministry abundantly. I am an award-winning singer/songwriter, I executive produced my first EP, I developed my own media (radio) tour, I’ve traveled across the world singing God’s praises, and now I am helping others develop their music ministry God’s way.

I chose ministry over artistry, relieving me of the pressure to conform and you can do the same. I may not be the gospel artist that always brings the vibe, but rest assured I strive to be the pencil that brings the Word.

If you’re struggling with how to use the gifts God gave you without conforming to the world and the industry, I want to invite you to join The Passport. A community where indie gospel artists have access to live sessions with industry professionals, networking opportunities with other gospel artists, classes, and resources to help build and grow your gospel music ministry.

I created this community for musicians like you, to glorify God with their gifts without compromising His word. CLICK HERE to join us today!