Jahaziel shares his story in first print media article ever!

PERSEVERANCE WINS THE RACE

I meet Jahaziel in his native South London. It's a warm Spring day and the sun is shining, and as we head to the studio he tells me about the recent trips abroad, the impact his music is making and the amazing way it's being received. This does not surprise me. Jahaziel is an immensely talented rapper, renowned for his flair and fresh approach to Hip Hop. His reputation grew rapidly after he exploded on the scene, followed by an abundance of mainstream opportunities allowing him to collaborate with and create dynamic remixes for high profile artists, including with Lemar, Craig David, Daniel Beddingfield and Monica.

As we walk, it begins to lightly rain, but this doesn't phase Jahaziel, he's accustomed to weathering the storm. Familiar with adversity, he has faced continuous struggles that would cause most others to give up. A somewhat enigmatic individual, Jahaziel's story is largely unknown. There exists unawareness that he has been courted by major record labels and offered big production deals. He also experienced being signed, but Jahaziel walked away due to conflicts of interest. Asked to tone down his God-conscious lyrics, it was a question of compromise. "I came to a fork in the road, but made a decision: money or no money I gotta do what I've been called for." This must have been a discouraging setback though. Jahaziel shares how he initially felt frustrated: the mainstream was beckoning, yet he felt compelled to have the courage of his convictions. Suffice to say the time came for Jahaziel to create his own path. "I got to a point and felt like I've got to show the world what I'm about and what I believe."

Defining success by "achieving the task you've been sent out to do", Jahaziel goes on to state "God forbid I become successful in man's eyes, but a failure in God's!" He reached a realisation; "If I'm gonna rap it's got to be for a purpose." However Jahaziel does not label his music as gospel, but rather "God-inspired". His intention is not to be a categorised artist, as his opinion is this creates restrictions. Instead he has caught the revelation of how important being accessible is. "There's a need to be relatable to the world on all different levels. I can use the attention I get from my music to get their eyes on God. That's the aim of my ministry."

Jahaziel agrees the gospel music industry is growing and producing more diversity, but observes major issues hindering true potential. "Artists are unwilling to think outside the box and be individual; creativity is what we need." Questioning in regards to Hip Hop as appropriate means to expressing God's message has caused controversy, yet Jahaziel recognises music as an effective communicative tool, and the fact that this genre is a language many understand. This relates to his passion for the youth, who he possesses a burden to reach and empower. "I feel a huge responsibility and want to encourage them to know they can do anything with their life". Jahaziel is driven by his own past experiences, and with honest lyrics addresses real life issues, and delivers powerful messages through his positive, thought-provoking music. Yet he also has a wide appeal and desires to reach everyone. "Above all, I always want to inspire all people to get closer to God."

He concurs the road has been tough, but knows everything happens for a reason: "Sometimes we have to slow down to walking pace, even pigeon steps." He confidently concludes, "I have no regrets, God has been faithful and opened new doors." Through perseverance things are now finally coming together for Jahaziel. I ask him how he remained focused. "I think it says a lot for just staying in there. As long as you're willing, God will complete the work He's started. You might lose some battles but you'll win the war!"

Of course making music he loves is a bonus, but Jahaziel's priority is being obedient to his God-given mandate. "If your motives are right you won't give up. You're not doing it for an easy life." During this period, Jahaziel has faced a steep learning curve. "I'm always amazed how God works. He trains people up in secret and that's what He's done with me." The process has been valuable, causing him to develop and grow. "This is why I don't feel discouraged it's taken this long, God's been preparing me mentally, spiritually and even musically."

There is no doubt Jahaziel is a captivating and dynamic artiste. When I ask how he feels about being considered a pioneer, he humbly responds; "In context I don't think I've earned the title, in view of where I am now and where I'm trying to reach, there's still a long way to go… my vision and my goal is to be producing things that haven't been done before." This demonstrates Jahaziel is a man on a mission who consistently seeks new heights to climb.

2006 was a pivotal year for Jahaziel. He won two Oasis awards; Best Male and Best Holy Hip Hop Artist. He also featured on 'The New Sound of Gospel' album, which created international exposure on a new level. All the trials and tribulations Jahaziel has experienced have led him to this point; on the verge of being catapulted to stratospheric dimensions. With the imminent release of his debut album, the pertinently titled 'Ready To Live', surrounded by immense anticipation, it is due to break moulds and set new standards. When I ask him about the album, a big smile appears on Jahaziel's face. "I'm really excited; it's been a long time coming!" He gives me an exclusive sneak preview of some of the tracks. I feel so honoured at this privilege and am impressed but not surprised by the world-class calibre of his material.

Jahaziel has been journeying on the road less travelled. It has taken extensive time, but the experience has been worthwhile. Admirably, he doesn't despise the process he's had to go through, but instead embraced it. "God can lay on your heart where to go in life, but he won't necessarily show you the route. You can guarantee it won't be an easy ride, there'll be obstacles." Jahaziel emphasises it is crucial to trust God and have faith. He continuously refers to scripture throughout our conversation, evidently spiritually grounded and adamant to fulfil his destiny. He is a testament to the tenacity and endurance required in any extraordinary ministry. "With resilience and God on your side victory is inevitable; it's just a matter of time."