Interview: HeIsTheArtist
American, Christian singer-song writer HeIsTheArtist, from Central Islip, NY, just released his powerful new single 'Virgin'. Louder Than The Music chatted with the man behind the music to find out more about his background, his inspiration, and of course, the reason for his artist name!
For those who haven't heard of you before, can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got involved in making music?
I am singer-songwriter Heistheartist and I was actually discovered on Instagram singing a cover of “Tyrone” by Erykah Badu by a local producer. He loved what he heard and invited me to his studio to write and record my debut single, now titled “Honey”.
Can you explain how you came up with your artistic name 'HeIsTheArtist' and what it means?
My artist name actually means “God is the creator”. I want people to think of God first when they see my artist name (After all, I am an evangelist for Christ).
Tell us about your new single 'Virgin' and what the inspiration behind it was?
“Virgin” is a Christian Dance R&B song about Catholic Nuns’ vow of celibacy. I was inspired by the sense of mystery I felt by the nuns who I was taught by when I attended Catholic School as a kid.
What message would you like people to take from your music?
That temptation is everywhere but sometimes things that you think will make you happy (like sex) will lead you off course of your calling.
How would you describe your style of music and what are your influences?
I consider myself an eclectic artist who merges different styles of music to relay my religious messages.
Kim Burrell, Carrie Underwood, Prince, and Michael Jackson are some of the many artists that I’m influenced by.
If you could work with any songwriter, who would it be and why?
Definitely Ne-Yo. He has written some of my favorite Dance R&B songs of all time as well as heartfelt ballads. We could definitely create some great music together.
How would you define success in your career as an artist?
I’m truly blessed but I still have a ways to go. But my trust in God’s word will lead me even higher.
What is your favorite album of all time?
“The Miseducation Of Lauryn Hill” definitely.
You're stuck on an island, it's hot, you only have enough battery life left to listen to one song on your phone. What track is it?
“Help Me Believe” by Kirk Franklin
What does the next year hold for you?
Hopefully live performances when the pandemic dies down. But if not, whatever is in God’s will I shall follow.
