June News

Can you share a bit about your musical background and what brought you to New City Kids?

My introduction to music was at 6 years old at my family church in Jersey City when I was given my first song entitled “Inside Out” by the Mississippi Children’s Choir. From that point, I’ve been pursuing music ever since. I was a part of the Music Educators of Tomorrow program at Ferris High School. After high school, I got a chance to tour the world professionally and work in different churches, serving as their Music Director. I’ve heard of New City Kids Church as a kid in Jersey City during the kids’ church era. However, what brought me to New City Kids, Inc. was a teenager then, now an alumnus, by the name of Marlon, who told me about the after-school program that was starting and needed a piano teacher. Through him, I met Pastor Trevor, and the rest is history.

How long have you been part of the New City Kids team, and what drew you to the role of Music Director in Jersey City?

As an adult staff member, I’ve been a part of the team for 4 years. Overall, I’ve been a part of the New City family (off and on) for almost 20 years. What drew me to the role of Music Director was the organization’s mission, as well as having the opportunity to give back to a place that gave me so much as a teenager.

How would you describe the impact of the music program on the youth at the Jersey City site?

The impact that the music program has on the youth in Jersey City is one of unity. With three different sites in one city, I’m blessed to serve in such a diverse place and to see kids from all different backgrounds embrace the music program and grow on their particular instruments is amazing. While people can sometimes debate over what separates us, the music program has found a way to unify our youth and create a space for them to work together regardless of race, color, creed, choice of identity, and even religious beliefs, while still maintaining our stance and staying true to the mission of New City Kids, which is “Loving Kids For Change.”

What’s something people might not realize about the behind-the-scenes work involved in leading a thriving music program?

The thing that some people may not see or realize is the passion that goes into leading the music program—not only from me but also from the music staff that works alongside me. Each one of them brings their own flavor and passion to this work.

Can you share a powerful or memorable moment you’ve experienced while working with the teens in music?

The one moment I can remember was in 2017 at the Worship Team retreat when we asked our teens on the team at that time to share an object that was personal to them. To see them being vulnerable with one another and create a bond as a team was truly something to remember.

How do you stay grounded in the mission of New City Kids while juggling rehearsals, performances, and mentoring?

The way I stay grounded in this line of work is by taking small moments of uninterrupted rest. I’ve also added trying to eat healthier and working out at the gym so I can keep up with the demands of not only New City Kids but also doing ministry in general.

What do you enjoy doing to recharge outside of work?

I enjoy watching Star Trek. I’ve seen all of the different TV shows and movies. However, my all-time favorite TV series is Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.

Do you have a favorite musical artist or genre that helps you unwind?

I have two favorite artists I listen to that help me unwind. They are Cory Henry and PJ Morton.

If you could collaborate musically with any artist (past or present) who would it be and why?

I would love to collaborate with the choirmaster himself: Dr. Ricky Dillard. He’s always finding different songwriters to work with when he’s putting his albums together.

What’s one musical dream or project on your bucket list that you’re determined to pursue?

My musical dream is to do a music tour overseas under my own Gospel Music production company. I got a chance to do it with the Harlem Gospel Choir in my early 20s for 5 years, so now I would love to find a way to make it happen for myself and bring other people with me.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received and how has it influenced your leadership at New City Kids?

The best advice I’ve ever received is always stay true to yourself and be the best version of yourself. The way it has influenced my leadership at New City Kids is I never try to do something exactly like the person that came before me. I always have to remember that what I do and even how I do it really matters. That is something that I try to instill in my music staff and teens I work with every day.