My journey as a vocal artist has been anything but conventional. From the Mississippi Delta church choirs and my family gospel group that nurtured my love for music to the hallowed halls of the Washington National Cathedral, my path has often felt like a winding road. And now, as I navigate living in Atlanta while working in the DMV region, I find myself reflecting on the story of Noah and the Ark—a story that resonates deeply with my own experience.
Noah’s story is one of faith, perseverance, and obedience. He was called to build an ark, a task that seemed absurd to those around him. There was no rain, no water in sight, and yet, Noah kept building. The people mocked him, called him names, and questioned his sanity. But Noah was not building for them; he was building in obedience to God’s divine instruction. Noah trusted the vision, even when it didn’t make sense.
As an artist, I often feel like Noah. Pursuing a career in music—a path that is truly unpredictable, challenging, and sometimes misunderstood, it requires a level of faith that many may not understand. Kinda like my journey to the DMV region, that wasn’t something I had planned. In fact, it all started with a moment of discomfort. I knew deep down that I was no longer comfortable where I was, but I didn’t know what my next step should be. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, an opportunity appeared: an audition for a Contemporary Vocalist position at Washington National Cathedral.
I remember seeing the audition notice and thinking, “What the heck, Just go for it and see what happens.” There was no grand plan, no strategy—just a nudge to take a leap. So, I flew down for the audition, gave it my all, and to my surprise, I was offered the position. I flew back home to Atlanta, and as I sat with the reality of what had just happened, my mind was racing. “What in the world have I just done? I don’t live in DC. Why did I accept that job?” I didn’t have the answers, but I had a sense that this was bigger than me. It was a step of faith, probably much like Noah’s first hammer strike on the ark.
Faith is what keeps me building when the path ahead is unclear. It’s what drives me to wake up each day, commit to vocal development, book performances, and build my brand—even when the results are not immediate. Like Noah, I’ve learned that obedience to the calling on my life doesn’t always align with the expectations or understanding of others—or even my own understanding. And that’s okay. Because when God is ordering your steps, the blueprint may not make sense to those around you—or even to you, at times—but it’s not supposed to. It’s designed for a purpose greater than what the eyes can see.
My journey has not been without its challenges. There have been moments of doubt, times when I have questioned if I am on the right path. But then, there are those moments of affirmation—standing on the stage at Carnegie Hall, hearing the applause and audience participation singing with me at The Velvet Note, Eddie’s Attic, or just sharing music that touches the heart at Ebenezer Baptist Church. These moments remind me why I keep building.
Noah’s story teaches us that the rain will come. The ark you’re building, the one that seems out of place and unnecessary to the world, will serve its purpose in due time. For me, the “ark” is my music, my performances, and the connections I’m building along the way. It’s the dream of creating a steady stream of opportunities that align with my values and purpose. And while the journey may not always make sense, I trust that it’s leading me exactly where I’m meant to be.
To anyone reading this who feels like they’re building something that others don’t understand—keep building. Whether it’s a career, a dream, a relationship, or a creative project, trust the vision that’s been placed in your heart. The world may not see the rain yet, but you do. And when the time comes, the fruits of your labor will not only make sense but will also serve as a testament to the power of faith and perseverance.
So, here I am, an artist living in Atlanta, working in DC, and building a life that honors the calling on my heart. Like Noah, I’m committed to the process, trusting the journey, and keeping my eyes on the One who orders my steps. Because when God is in it, the rain will come. And when it does, you’ll be ready. Keep building.
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