Tell us about yourself and your music
I am a Louisiana native Christian contemporary recording artist Clyde J. I am a 34-year-old husband and father of 3. I don’t believe that one chooses Christian music but one is chosen by music. Music chose me at the age of 11. One bible study night, my First lady at the church asked the congregation if anyone wanted anything from God to come up and touch and agree with her and through faith, God will make it so. Not knowing really what to expect, I walked up and told her that I want to be anointed to play the piano. She anointed my hands and we prayed in faith. The very next day I was able to play! This started a journey for me at a young age.
Talk to us more about your latest release
My latest release is an anthem for the believer. I love the feel and power behind it. It’s simple to learn, and praise team, worship leader can put it in their arsenal.
What inspired you to write this release?
Being a Christian, sometimes the cares of life distract us and cause us to lose focus on the order of things. We tend to magnify our problems and find ourselves always telling God how big our problem is rather than telling our problems how big our God is. We often move God from his place of authority and power as the King who reigns over all. We forget that He is bigger than our issues and struggles. “He Reigns” is an anthem that puts the believer in a posture of surrender and casting all cares at His feet. Being a husband, father of three, working a full-time job, Sunday school teacher and the battle of being an Independent artist is heavy. I found myself in a place where I’ve glorified my struggles and failures finding myself out of my place. I had to shake myself and bring my heart back to praise and worship. During my battle I lifted my voice and began to sing, “Glory Hallelujah He Reigns,” So forever faithful always”. Then I reminded my soul that “Your blood has the power to save”. No matter the circumstance I have the confidence and peace of mind because I know that my Savior Reigns.
Describe the writing and recording process
God gives me melodies in different ways. Be it through a dream, a tune my daughter is humming or just an accidental chord I play on the guitar or piano. Once the melody hits me, my experiences form the lyrics. I don’t write down any lyrics until after I’ve recorded a draft of the song. My lyrics flow from the moment. Because of that, I may record the song and change instrumentation 3 to 5 times until it ministers the right way. I often bring in other musicians and producers to get a clear view, as I often say “It is hard to see the picture when you are in the frame”. This particular song came through a prayer I prayed during a difficult time.
Any plans to hit the road?
Have plans to hit the road as my new single unfolds and is stretched to the masses. My prayer is that it ministers and open up opportunities for radio interviews and singing engagements. My dream is to sing it live in concert with one of my favorite artist Travis Greene. My manager and I are accepting all bookings at this moment so book me at WZGENTERTAINMENT@GMAIL.COM!
As an indie artist, how do you brand yourself and your music to stand out from the rest of the artists out there?
I brand myself by remaining Raw. No sugar added, just plain raw musically, lyrically and in my image. I go the opposite way for example: if everyone is wearing white, I wear black. I pride myself on going against the grain. I don’t try to sound pretty or follow the musical trend at the moment. I keep it raw, fresh, and most of all anointed.
Who have you been listening to lately?
Lately, I’ve been listening to Christian Hip Hop and Urban Gospel artist such as Bizzle, Jordan Armstrong, 116, etc. I try to listen to genres away from my own so that my creativity stay true. So that melodies from others in my field don’t unconsciously bleed into mine.
Who are your biggest influences?
Travis Greene
John Mayer
Men of Standard
Tell us about your passions
My passion is emptying every note, every lyric and every song that God pours into me. Spending time with my wife and kids. And praise and worship at my local church in the small city of Bogalusa La.
What else is happening next in your world?
Next is to flood the radio and churches, sharing the music ministry of Clyde J. Pushing to touch lives and introduce them to the only true King Jesus Christ. And releasing a full album very shortly.
Thanks for an awesome interview, Winston Greir
Connect with Clyde J
Website: http://wzgentertainment.comFacebook: http://facebook@ClydeJMusicpageInstagram: http://instagram@clydejmusicTwitter: http://twitter@clydejmusicYoutube: http://youtub@clydej
