Tell us about yourself and your music
I started singing at the age of 4. Being influenced by names such as Fred Hammond, Marvin Sapp, and Earnest Pugh, I have developed a soulful, smooth sound that is still striking and powerful. I have a great passion for Gospel music. I love songs that put your focus on Christ.
Talk to us more about your latest release
I released a single titled, “That’s My God” earlier this year. It is the first song off my debut album, “Won” that will be released in 2019. I’ve been working tirelessly with other artists in the Tri-State area and Nairobi Kenya who will be a part of the project. I’m very excited to share this music with everyone and to bring this message to the world.
What inspired you to write this release?
I started writing music 4 years ago with no prior experience playing an instrument or producing. I understood that this music wasn’t just a personal endeavor and that God was entrusting me to share it. Not long after this discovery, I started to look for a producer who could help me. I learned some harsh realities about the music industry very early on, but ultimately found a producer who’s awesome and works with several local artists. The songs for “Won” are some of my very first songs. I want to take the listener on a journey through my maturity in songwriting and faith.
Describe the writing and recording process
The best way to describe the writing process for me is sporadic. I gather inspiration for songs every time I’m in prayer and worship. I’ll start humming something and before I know it, I have an entire song from start to finish. At times when I revisit songs I’ve written, I’ll piece choruses, verses, and bridges together to make a completely different song. I’m a firm believer that songs are never finished, but ‘done enough’ to share with the world until new inspiration and revelation comes along.
Any plans to release a video?
I plan on incorporating several aspects of my ministry into my project. Along with singing, I’m a playwright, filmmaker, actor, teacher, preacher, and Graphic Artist. I’ve even been a part of a dance team that performed on a national stage. I want to be able to bring every part of me into a video series or short film for the album.
Any plans to hit the road?
I will be in Nairobi, Kenya December 1-8 for the Power to Become Conference at Overcoming Faith Church
Feel free to follow me on Instagram and Facebook to keep up with my dates here in the states.
As an indie artist, how do you brand yourself and your music to stand out from the rest of the artists out there?
I’m very honest as an artist. I believe that transparency is what allows others to truly understand you and support you. My sound is very smooth and neo-soul-ish, but always intentionally bringing your focus to God.
Who have you been listening to lately?
There are so many Gospel Indie artists that I can’t name them all. Right now in my playlist is A.J. Colier and the Band of Believers, Maranda Curtis, Jonathan Nelson, Anita Wilson, WeWillWorship Movement, and Deborah Haynes-Carolina. I’ve also recently discovered Emily King who is a phenomenal vocalist and musician.
Who are your biggest influences?
My biggest influences are Fred Hammond, Marvin Sapp, Earnest Pugh, and believe it or not Amy Winehouse. I grew up listening to Fred and Marvin’s earlier work because of road trips with my parents. My sister used to have me lead Earnest Pugh songs all of the time. I started to find myself exploring my range and hitting his high notes. I’ve always appreciated Amy’s brutal honesty. It’s something that is often missing in music these days.
Tell us about your passions
I love all things creative. I’m a teacher and instructor for graphic designs. I filmed my first short earlier this year called, “Jesus on Trial” which will debut in 2019. I am the youth minister at my church and superintendent over education. I had the opportunity to partner with a dance group out of Philly for a National Dance Conference this past month. That was a great experience. I love to travel and volunteer with mission work as well.
What else is happening next in your world?
Africa! I’m heading there for a conference and following that, I’ll be going to Israel and Egypt. I will be starring in a play called, “Mirror of Destruction” coming up in March. The response from the opening weekend was so strong that they booked our show in North Carolina as the show was still going on! My short film and album will be released in 2019 so I’m going to be a very busy man.
Thanks for an awesome interview, Curtis
Connect with Curtis Henderson
Website: http://curtishendersonmusic.wordpress.comFacebook: https://facebook.com/curtishendersonmusicTwitter: https://twitter.com/chgospelmusicSoundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/curtishendersonmusic
