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“God plants dreams in your heart and in your soul for a reason…” – t.Jay

Growing up, t.Jay (TJ Pompeo) had a devastating experience that could’ve permanently skewed his spiritual vision. Thankfully, through a myriad of circumstances he realized that the only way to truly see clearly was to keep his eyes focused on the Cross and to give his life and dreams to the One who set him free…

Editor’s Music Pick: Below take a listen to t.Jay’s song “Tomorrow” (ft. Corbett) about waiting on God’s timing for your life and dreams. It’s one of my personal faves from t.Jay’s album The Pre View that you can download here for free.

At age 15, t.Jay embraced his passion for music and started stepping into the rhythm and purpose God placed in his heart by producing and writing songs. As he matured and honed his craft doors started to open for him to share his music on a wider scale. During the summer of 2011, he was discipled by Cross Movement Records group Level 3:16 and embarked on a tour around the nation. Since then, t.Jay has traveled the world, touring in England, Spain, France, Italy, Japan, Uruguay, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and many more, and he’s had the privilege of sharing stages with many incredible artists like Da T.R.U.T.H. (check out a video of them performing together below).

t.Jay joins in on Da T.R.U.T.H’s song “Hunger Games” at the Impact12 Conference:

I first came across t.Jay’s music through the Impact Movement (an amazing organization we’ve been supporting for the past few years on Dream in Soul) and we’ve previously posted t.Jay’s song with Level 3:16, LOVE. The fresh vibe he brings (he describes as a mixture of hip hop pop, soul and R&B that can’t be put in a box) and sound messages in his music will impact people of all ages. In this candid interview t.Jay tells us about his journey, overcoming a tough experience in his childhood and how he’s learned to trust God with his life and dreams. Here’s just a preview into what makes his heart – and music – beat…

Dream in Soul: We know you do music, but music isn’t who you are- so let’s start off with who is t.Jay? How would you introduce yourself to us, where are you from, what moves you, etc.?

t.Jay: Right, so like you said, “t.Jay” is my artist name and that’s what fans know me by. Everybody who’s known me for a while just calls me TEEJ. TJ is my real name, and it IS short for something, but you’ll only know what the “T” stands for if you’re friends with me on Facebook. =D I’m 22 years young. I’ve got roots in Long Island, NY, but I was raised in the small city of Harrisonburg, VA. I’m all about family, and the one that I have is absolutely amazing. They’ve all been so key in getting me to where I am as a young man and as an artist. I’m also big on family because I’m very Italian. It’s just who we are. One big happy (and loud) family. Along with my family, my friends and my mentors are equally as incredible. They’ve without a doubt been my motivation through life, music and all. They encourage me consistently, and I’m so grateful for them. What else??? Hmmm. I love cheese sticks, having slap-boxing fights with my friends, and collecting rainbow colored gumballs (JUST kidding… Kind of). My favorite show is the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Denzel is by far my favorite actor. One of my goals in life is to visit all 7 continents. Oh, and I’m a sucker for romantic comedies. Sorry fellas.

Dream in Soul: Can you give some background about your story and how you came to know Christ, how you got started in making music then transitioned to dedicating it to God? Did you start out writing music & producing on your own or were there people instrumental in mentoring you? (Can you also share the significance of the way you write your artist name?).

That’s a long one, but I’ll try to not write a novel. As far as my artist name goes, like you said, there is a story behind the way I’ve decided to spell it. When you think of a capitalized letter, it typically symbolizes something of importance, or something that has significance. Someone’s name, celebrities, the name of a city or state, a type of car, a notable product brand, etc. I decided to make the “t” in my artist name lowercase and the “J” uppercase because I wanted it to symbolize that I have no significance without Jesus. TJ is nothing without Jesus. The “J” in my artist name represents Jesus Christ in me. It’s the only letter capitalized in my artist name because of what I stated above… His name is and always will be more significant than ANY other name to ever exist. My own obviously included. To put it simply… I suck without Jesus.

My story has a very common beginning though. I grew up in church, but never fully understood the concept of actually “walking with” or “following” Christ until I was 18. My life prior to 18 was full of bitterness and anger towards God, mainly due to things that occurred in my upbringing as a little boy.

When I was 8 years old, I was sexually molested by someone who I knew very well. It was absolutely devastating… That event would prove to shape who I would be for the next 10 years of my life. From the ages of 8-13, every single day was a Christian version of Halloween for me. I would wear the mask of Christianity on the exterior to appear like a “good kid,” but on the interior I was angry and I could have cared less about God or Jesus. When I was 14, I decided that I was sick of wearing the mask.. I wanted to live “my” life the way I wanted to live it and ultimately do what I wanted to do. This is also the age where I started experimenting with the typical peer pressures: Party scene, alcohol, drugs, chasing girls, etc. At this time, I also noticed that I really enjoyed the musical genres of Hip-Hop and R&B. All of my family was/is musically inclined (my dad, all three of my older siblings, and all six of my older cousins). They all played a significant role in getting me started with writing music…

By Julene Fleurmond, Editor of Dream in Soul Magazine • June 2013 • No Comments

Britt Nicole’s video for her song Gold is an energetic, inspiring reminder to put our worth in God instead of others. Be sure to get the song on her latest album Gold and catch Britt on the Hits Deep Tour alongside tobyMac, Brandon Heath, Mandisa, Chris August, Jamie Grace and Group 1 Crew.

GOLD Lyrics

You were walking on the moon, now you’re feeling low
What they said wasn’t true, you’re beautiful
Sticks and stones break your bones, I know what you’re feeling
Words like those won’t steal your glow, you’re one in a million

This, this is for all the girls, boys all over the world
Whatever you’ve been told, you’re worth more than gold
So hold your head up high, it’s your time to shine
From the inside out it shows, you’re worth more than gold
(Gold gold, you’re gold)
You’re worth more than gold
(Gold gold, you’re gold)

Well everybody keeps score, afraid you’re gonna lose
Just ignore they don’t know the real you
All the rain in the sky can’t put out your fire
Of all the stars out tonight, you shine brighter…

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By Julene Fleurmond, Editor of Dream in Soul Magazine • December 2012 • No Comments

Above: Actor Ernie Hudson with one of the latest designs from Dream in Soul Creative Apparel. Click here to get this and other inspiring shirts…

“…the fulfilling of who you are and your purpose for being here is not found outside, it’s trusting God to move you, to inspire you…” – Ernie Hudson

Lately Dream in Soul has been busy shining a light and spreading inspiration at various events through speaking or representing our Dream in Soul Creative Apparel line (stay tuned for more updates on the blog). Here’s Actor Ernie Hudson with one of our latest designs “Live, Love and Dream for a greater Purpose” at a recent event; you might know him from one of over 100 movie and TV roles – of which he might be best known for his role in Ghostbusters. Ernie’s also an inspiring man of faith who played the voice of the apostle Peter in the “Word of Promise” audio Bible.

Ernie grew up thinking he’d be a minister, but then acting came about after trying different things and not quite finding his sweet spot. When he got to college he took an acting class and felt right at home. Ernie shared encouragement on purpose and dreams in an interview with TBN:

“When I read the Bible it’s the Spirit, it’s the knowing that, it’s the fulfilling of who you are and your purpose for being here is not found outside, it’s trusting God to move you, to inspire you – to move through inspiration. To want the things that you want is a wonderful thing but trust in God to guide you to that and things will work out perfectly…but unfortunately sometimes you fear – when you start feeling fear then it’s not the right direction.

Sometimes in desperation we try to reach out and find things outside of ourselves and trust other people who are trying to sell us something. You really need to listen to the inner voice and know that you’ll be guided and the right thing will line up for you – it always has for me. But if you’re looking for someone out there…put not your trust in man.”

Watch Ernie’s interview where he talks more about his journey into purpose below:
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By Julene Fleurmond, Editor of Dream in Soul Magazine • October 2012 • No Comments

Book Review by Julene Fleurmond, Editor of SOAR

Finding the Perfect Wave is a great book that dives into the world of Alli Whitton, a 17-year-old avid surfer who seems to have it all together. When tragedy and change crashes into her world she has to learn to readjust, and to boldly face the rough trials in her path.

I really enjoyed the story and the way the the author created believable characters and situations that young people and adults can relate too. She also wasn’t afraid to delve into serious topics like losing a loved one and navigating the waters of rocky friendships, broken relationships and the feelings that come along with betrayal.

I found myself feeling for the main character Alli when she faced obstacles and especially when she felt out of place at times when starting at a new school. Of course a there was some romance weaved within, which I as a girl enjoyed, especially since the relationships didn’t go overboard like in other books and movies for young adults these days.

Cheri brought the characters’ faith into the story in a way that was natural and unforced, and draws the reader into their lives. The book is an encouragement to stand strong even when it seems that life is pounding on you from every side.

By the end I found myself wanting to find out more about Alli and her story, which thankfully I and other readers will be able to because Cheri has released a new sequel called Riding the Perfect Wave. You can order both books from her website at www.cherihmiklich.com.

More About Cheri Miklich

Finding the Perfect Wave, part one, is Cheri’s first novel and the first in the Perfect Wave series. She grew up in Southern California where she loved spending as much free time as she could at the beach. She and her husband Mark, live in Arizona with their four children. She loves to travel with her family, especially to beautiful beaches.

She has been asked on many occasions, “How does a stay at home Mom come to write a book?” Her answer… Continue Reading

Finding the Perfect Wave Book Description: From the Publisher

Alli…there’s been an accident.’ Her voice grew silent. ‘What?’ I began to hear sobbing coming from the other end of the line. A sick feeling overtook my whole body. The fear of what I was about to hear became a stronger reality with each of Sara’s sobs. ‘There was a really bad car accident, and Alli…’ She paused and began to cry louder. ‘H-He’s…gone. He’s dead.’

Seventeen-year-old Alli Whitton’s life just can’t get any better. She’s one of the best surfers in Huntington Beach, spending every day side by side with her boyfriend, Todd, and just days away from entering the halls of her senior year in high school. Then her dad is transferred miles away from her beloved ocean to the middle of the sweltering Arizona desert, and Alli’s perfect life is threatened. It takes an uphill turn, however, when she meets Jake, the school’s handsome soccer star, whose sandy blond hair and sharp green eyes remind her how to smile once again. All she needs to do is make it ten long months; then she’s free to return to California.

But when an unthinkable tragedy occurs, Alli is forced into mourning the loss of a dear loved one, leaving her suffering through the grieving process in a new school with none of her best friends to comfort her. Cheri Miklich’s Finding the Perfect Wave is a romantic coming-of-age drama where readers will learn, along with Alli, to smile and laugh even amidst life’s darkest hours. A new romance blooms, hope and faith fight to prevail, and a strong realization of passion for her dreams surfaces as she discovers who she is meant to be. Join Alli as she enters the waters of life and seeks to find the perfect wave!

To learn more about Cheri and her books, order, and read sample chapters visit: www.cherihmiklich.com.

Note: SOAR received a free copy of “Finding the Perfect Wave” for this review and was not required to give a positive review.

By Julene Fleurmond, Editor of Dream in Soul Magazine • August 2012 • No Comments

15-year Rachel Chan, who is the daughter of renowned author and speaker Francis Chan, recently released her first album entitled “Go,” which features this song “You Must Love Me.” In the song she talks about how much God shows His affection to us, more than anyone ever can:

“You Must Love Me” Lyrics

No one calls me beautiful like you and i love how you say it too,
Every word from you is filled with wonder, I wonder, why you love me, but you do
I would be a fool to argue with you, maybe id be wasting my time,
You’ve given me your word and based on what I’ve heard, You must love me, really love me

No one knows me as deeply as you do, still i’m the one you choose
Even though i prove i don’t deserve you, i don’t deserve the love you say is true
And i would be a fool to argue with you, maybe id be wasting my time
You’ve given me your word and based on what I’ve heard, You must love me, really love me

In another song about love on the album, Rachel’s talking to a potential suitor telling him he has to prove to her Dad that he really loves her; the track is fun and even features Francis Chan himself, click here to take a listen. For more fun and fresh music be sure to check out her album “Go” on iTunes by clicking here.

You can connect with Rachel on her website www.rachelchanmusic.com.

More About Rachel Chan

As more and more of the Millennial generation look for leadership in video games, Radio Disney, pop culture, and their own community of youth, there is a hope that a figure will rise up pointing them toward Hope… pointing them toward Love. It is possible that such a person may be found in the small stature, but big presence of fifteen- year-old, singer-songwriter Rachel Chan.

Born and raised in the rolling valleys of Simi Valley, California, Rachel is the oldest child of world-renowned, New York Times best-selling author and speaker Francis Chan. The welcoming, and spirit filled environment Chan and his wife Lisa have built provides a creative haven for this young songstress who admits her parents, “try to be the best picture of Christ they can be for me.”

Read More…

By Julene Fleurmond, Editor of Dream in Soul Magazine • February 2012 • No Comments

“It’s not only that God just forgives you…it’s not only that He covered me and set me free and forgave me, but He goes so much farther. He crowns me with glory and honor and favor, He calls me His daughter – I thrive on the joy…the presence of God is the fullness of joy…” – Beckah Shae

A few weeks back I heard Beckah Shae’s testimony on the Revolution show on JCTV and was moved by her heart for God and her story. Watch her talk about how she came to where she is today:

“I know personally that I’ve been called to stand. I’d like to see how many people are going to be really, truly willing to stand…Do you know Him and does He know you?” – Beckah Shae

At the beginning of January I gave a message to the teen girl ministry at my church about Esther and how like she followed God’s plan for her life, we should also be bold and say yes to our purpose. One of my inspirations for the message was Beckah Shae’s song from her album “Destiny,” listen to the lyrics below:

By Julene Fleurmond, Editor of Dream in Soul Magazine • January 2012 • No Comments

Author, speaker and ministry leader Tony Snipes helps today’s gifted artisans answer questions about their purpose and creative calling through his initiatives Art Lessons From God and Kreative Kingdom.

“What is it that you love doing that you wouldn’t even have to have anybody pay you for… That’s your passion…the beauty of it would be that if you’re pursuing that and you’re getting paid for it then it’s not even like work.” – Tony Snipes

Be sure to check out the resource links at the end of the interview including a free download of Tony’s audio resource “How To Identify Your Creative Calling: Your CALLING, Your CAREER, Your JOB…What’s The Difference?”

Most everyone has asked these questions:

• Who am I?
• Why am I here?
• What should I be doing?

Artists in particular, from painters to musicians, may ask these questions regarding their gifts:

• Who am I as an artist?
• Why do I have this talent?
• What does God want me to do with it?

Tony Snipes, a gifted artist himself and founder of Kreative Kingdom, Inc. a non-profit faith-based art initiative, began asking these questions and created a resource to help other artists discover their creative purpose.

Tony’s project, Art Lessons from God delves into these questions of gifting and calling. The blog, workshops, books and other resources were created with the goal of helping artists and designers discover God’s purpose and plan for their artistic talent. Watch Tony introduce the site below:

Though the site is targeted toward visual artists it has much insight that could inspire artists of any type from writers and performers to musicians and filmmakers. Many of the topics explored can apply to a variety of arts, like “Anointed versus Talented: What’s the Difference?” to “Discovering a “God” idea vs a “Good” idea.”

Often in our society we acknowledge the “how” regarding talents of individuals but may not always consider the deeper questions involved with “why”. In this interview Tony Snipes discusses his background in the visual arts and gives advice to other artists in figuring out their “why” and God’s purpose for them:

Dream in Soul: Hi Tony, thanks for speaking to me today. Can you tell us a little about who you are: What is your background in art and your profession?

Tony Snipes: Well prior to going into graphic design and illustration I have been drawing and painting all of my life but especially kind of training myself to draw and sketch from my comic books as a kid. So I did a lot of drawing back then, and am professionally trained as a graphic designer – graphic design and illustration…that’s pretty much my professional background with art…

Below is one of Tony Snipes’ pieces entitled “Endure.”

DS: What inspired you to start your website “Art Lessons From God”?

Tony Snipes: What really started challenging me is and kind of pushed me towards starting the site was based on a conversation that I had with a young man back in the late ‘90s. He was an artist as well and he was about to graduate from high school, and was contemplating going to art school or taking something else… We were talking in church and both of us started asking, where is the artist in the Bible?

By Julene Fleurmond, Editor of Dream in Soul Magazine • October 2011 • No Comments

“When we give our dreams to God, putting them all in His hands, and realizing that we need Him, that’s when He begins to work in mighty and powerful ways through us. Let us be a generation who stands for Christ, and love as He loves us. Young and old, let’s make an impact on the world together, as we join as one in Him.” – Tiffany Stanley

In SOAR’s Artist Snapshots Series we love to feature young upcoming artists who have inspiring music ministries. I came across Tiffany Stanley’s music one day and was encouraged by the candid messages in her songs, and the soft acoustic sound she brings.

I especially loved the lyrics of “Break Me Down” the first track off Tiffany Stanley’s new album ‘Revival’:

Visit Tiffany’s website at http://tiffanystanley.com to learn more about her ministry and to purchase her music. You can also connect with her on Twitter and Facebook.

Tiffany will be singing at an upcoming event, The Dream Girlz Gathering, hosted by music artist Melinda Watts. If you are in the Seattle area August 26th and 27th be sure to visit the Dream Girlz Gathering Facebook page to get updates.

More About Tiffany Stanley

Ever since she was a little girl, Tiffany dreamed of being more than a musician. It was in growing and developing a close and personal relationship with Christ that she knew music was more than the lyrics, chords, and notes. “To me, music is lifting up songs of worship to the Lord.” Tiffany is a musician in pursuit of Worship. “I want this music to promote the most important thing: Jesus Christ.”

Tiffany longs to share the love of Christ in her music, and show others His goodness, grace and mercy. She believes God is going to pour out revival among the nations, and prays that we as believers would rise up to encounter Christ in a whole new way. At 18 years of age, she has spent her first year after high-school enrolling in worship classes and letting God make the dream of making this album come true. She is extremely excited about what the Lord has planned, and knows it is all in His hands for the glory of His name.

Her independently released album Revival talks about exactly what it’s named: Revival. It’s about being justified in Christ, surrendering to His will, letting Him open your eyes, and coming boldly into His presence. “I didn’t want to just make an album, I wanted to tell a story of what a life in Christ is. Of needing Him every second of everyday, knowing one can’t be fulfilled without Him.” She believes in dreaming dreams, surrendering to Christ, and living in His love. “When we give our dreams to God, putting them all in His hands, and realizing that we need Him, that’s when He begins to work in mighty and powerful ways through us. Let us be a generation who stands for Christ, and love as He loves us. Young and old, let’s make an impact on the world together, as we join as one in Him.”

By Julene Fleurmond, Editor of Dream in Soul Magazine • August 2011 • No Comments

Author and singer Dr. Naima Johnston (now Dr. Naima Johnston-Bush after she got married a while back) spoke to us previously on Dream in Soul about how to find and follow your calling (click here for the two-part interview). In this Heart to Heart she speaks about how she learned to trust in God as a young woman and gives advice on embracing your identity in Christ:

I became a Christian in an interesting way. My mother became a Christian when I was a teenager – and that made for interesting times between us. I was so rude and so angry that I wasn’t hearing a thing she had to say. I couldn’t understand this Jesus that she was talking about, but she kept praying for me and witnessing to me and loving me.

I got involved with this guy, and it was not a good situation. He actually was emotionally and on one occasion physically abusive. Because I didn’t love myself, because I thought I was worth nothing, because I really believed that no one would ever love me, I let him do whatever he wanted to do and treat me any kind of way.

One day we got into an argument about what we were going to listen to on the car radio. He told me that he would kill me, hide my body, and no one would ever find me. I knew he meant it. I knew that there had to be more to life then this. That night I prayed and said “God, there has got to be more to life then this…”
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By Julene Fleurmond, Editor of Dream in Soul Magazine • June 2011 • No Comments