Jessie Daniels is so packed with talent that at the tender age of 18, she has already left her mark on the stage, in TV, and now on the Christian music scene.
Her long awaited self-titled debut (see review) hits the streets June 6th from Midas Records. Our recent conversation quickly answered any questions I might have about how this New York-based singer has accomplished so much so quickly. She is simply riddled with smarts.
Not that she takes all of the credit for her massive accomplishments. When I asked her how she was able to make her way so smoothly through the two major entertainment machines of our culture, movies and music, she was quick to point outside of herself. "I'm really thankful for the talent that God gave me, and also for my very supportive parents. From the very beginning, whether it was to take me into the city for an audition for a musical or a TV program, or whether it meant flying with me down to Nashville, they completely supported my career. They felt I had the talent, and their great belief in me really helped me through it all."
That kind of early support usually breeds confidence and sure enough, Jessie Daniels is brimming with confidence, in just the right spirit. When I mention it to her, her answer strikes me as very wise. "I think confidence is important to all of us, don't you?" she asks. "It's so helpful to feel like you're in the right place. Even if you don't know absolutely for sure, you have to have confidence in your own faith, to know that God will get you where He wants you to go." I'm again struck by her enormous assurance, but I feel better when she laughs, "Of course, all of this is easier said then done!"
Jessie has had the opportunity to participate in such a wide cross-section of the entertainment fields, that I'm curious to know how she sees the Christian music industry stacking up against the others, in terms of integrity. When I ask her if she finds our faith values showing up in the business world, her answer is encouraging. "I think they do," she replies carefully. "Of course, there are a lot more boundaries in the Christian market, but there should be most of the time. They're good boundaries. It's a cool market, but I like to say that I'm an artist who is a Christian. That's how we are to live as people who have God on our side and in us."
"I love music," she continues, "and it's what I want to do with my life. But I'm thankful that God has come into my life and said "Hey, I'm the one who has blessed you with this gift. If you stay faithful and do this for me, then I'll stay faithful and bless you beyond your wildest beliefs." The faithfulness of Jessie Daniels must be in good working order, because she seems perfectly positioned for the satisfying of her wildest dreams. Keep your eye on the bright and fascinating Jessie Daniels. She's one to watch.
