Creating for the Creator: Music, Artistry, & Divine Inspiration

Visit Here’s for the song ‘Promises’: https://song.link/7nsd96k9btftw

God has a beautiful, well-tailored plan for everyone, and there’s no need to feel pressured.

If it’s going to cost you your faith; then it isn’t worth it. Let your trust in God be bigger than your fears. – Julie James

Via David Oletu (DCM)

“After I won the local singing competition in 2018, and I wanted more from me, forgetting that all I needed was in Christ.

I got into a rough phase where I felt lost and was just doing things my way.

It was really hard trying to do life without God, but then in the heat of everything, God found me,…”

Creating for the Creator: Music, Artistry, & Divine Inspiration

Meet Julie James, a gifted gospel artist whose voice is a balm to the soul and whose lyrics offer a powerful antidote to the heart.

With a unique blend of creative expression and spiritual devotion, Julie has established herself as a standout talent in the Christian music scene.

As a singer, songwriter, and passionate advocate for her craft,

she has carved out a distinctive niche that showcases her artistry and commitment to using her gifts to glorify God. 

In this exclusive and heartfelt conversation, Julie invites us into her creative world,

sharing the inspirations, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped her journey from her early days singing in church to the release of her latest projects.

Julie also advocates for good support for talented Christian young creatives, to ensure gospel music’s continuation and growth.

DCM: Can we meet you? 

Julie James: Hello, I’m Julie James, a Nigerian (laughs).

I needed to state my nationality because whenever I say my name, people wonder why I bear two English names.

I’m from Nasarawa State -Nigeria, born and raised in Port Harcourt but based in Lagos -Nigeria now.

I’ve been singing all my life.

I started out at the children’s church, then at some point started going for singing competitions in my teens,

and then I eventually won a local singing competition in 2018 (I came in 2nd place).

It was hosted by a foundation in my home church then, and that was my 3rd time going for that competition.

At some point I got signed to a label; it didn’t take too long, then I left.

Ever since I’ve just been doing music.

I should also talk about my new song, ‘PROMISES’.

It is a prayer to God, and prayer is a two-way thing: you talking to God and God talking to you (Matthew 7:7).

So yes, ‘PROMISES’ is a conversation I had with God at my lowest.

And more than anything, the word of God gives us strength to overcome whatever challenges we might face at any point in time.

‘PROMISES’ echoes Matthew 7:7.

I want you all to stream my song ‘PROMISES’ on any music streaming platform you use to listen to music.

Here’s the link to the song ‘Promises’: https://song.link/7nsd96k9btftw

Creating for the Creator: Music, Artistry, & Divine Inspiration

DCM: Can you share about a time when you felt disconnected from gospel music and how you rekindled your passion?

Julie James: This is quite personal, but I’ll drop a thing or two.

It was after I won the local singing competition in 2018, and I wanted more from me, forgetting that all I needed was in Christ.

I got into a rough phase where I felt lost and was just doing things my way.

It was really hard trying to do life without God, but then in the heat of everything, God found me,

and you know the bible verse about the shepherd that had 100 sheep; if one goes astray, he leaves the 99 to get the one (Matthew 18:12–13).

That was it for me,

and for some reason, I got clarity of purpose as I got into a relationship with God, and it’s been an awesome journey so far.

DCM: What do you think contributes to the decline in interest in gospel music among young, musically skilled individuals?

Julie James: For me, I think support is the biggest factor that contributes to the decline in interest in gospel music among young individuals.

A lot of things are changing. The same goes for gospel music.

I mean, gone are those days when ‘worship songs’ were the only songs viewed as gospel music.

Today we have Afro gospel, rap, etc., and the church is still warming up to this change.

DCM: How can the gospel music industry adapt to appeal to a younger generation of musicians and artists?

Julie James: I think the industry should just support and create more opportunities where young talents can come and showcase their God-given talents. 

DCM: How can gospel music ministry leaders and the church better support and mentor young musicians to keep them invested in the genre?

Julie James: Keep creating platforms for them to showcase their talents; provide a safe space where they can be vulnerable and open for counselling.

Creating for the Creator: Music, Artistry, & Divine Inspiration

DCM: What are some misconceptions about gospel music that might be driving young musicians away, and how can we address them? 

Julie James: Everybody wants to make it big and be up there, and that’s okay.

Now many young artists feel gospel music has no money, and this is a lie.

Firstly, money is not the goal but a byproduct,

and just like every venture, there’s seed time and harvest time, and part of this seed time is knowing the business aspects of music.

Taking time to know your craft is key.

Excellence in the marketplace is key too—gospel music included.

Patience is a virtue that can’t be bought, and its result is bountiful.

In conclusion, I’d say if God called you to do a job, just know He has given you everything you need to do the job.

DCM: What advice would you give to young musicians who feel pressured to choose between their faith and their musical aspirations?

Julie James: I’d say, anything outside God is zero.

I saw a quote somewhere. I’m not sure where. It says: ‘Steeze without God na breeze’. (laughs)

God has a beautiful, well-tailored plan for everyone, and there’s no need to feel pressured. If it’s going to cost you your faith; then it isn’t worth it.

Let your trust in God be bigger than your fears.

DCM: Can you share about a mentor or role model who has helped shape your faith and ministry?

Julie James: I’ve had a couple of people in my life that God has used to be a blessing.

My pastor, Rev. Peter Okereke, and his wife, Dr. Ozi Okereke (LP), are one of those people.

Creating for the Creator: Music, Artistry, & Divine Inspiration

DCM: Could you also share with us your unforgettable testimony of God’s faithfulness and grace in your life, ministry, academics, or career?

Julie James: God has always been good to me. I have lots of testimony, but I’ll share this one.

There was a time when I thought I was going to die and like my life was over, but God came through and preserved me.

He gave me a second chance to live and has never left my side.

DCM: How do you see your platform evolving in the future, and what are your long-term goals?

Julie James: I see myself going global in the next few years.

Currently, I’m working on my music production skills, and with time I should have my studio running.

Also, I plan on creating platforms for Christian creatives like me.

DCM: Thank you for your time, Julie. We wish you all the very best ahead! 

Julie James: Thank you so much for having me, I feel so honoured!

Also Read: From Hymns to Hits: A Conversation with Adebola Adedayo – Diademng (thediademng.org)

Creating for the Creator: Julie James on Music, Artistry, and Divine Inspiration

More About Julie James : https://www.instagram.com/juliejamesmusic1?igsh=OGxnZ2E3dnJmYXAz