Interview: Danah-Lee
Danah-Lee has released her new song 'Grace', and Louder Than The Music chatted to her about the new song and how her forthcoming album embraces the role of LGBTQ2S+ in the church.
Tell us about your new single 'Grace' and what the inspiration behind it was?
The inspiration behind ‘Grace’ is God’s consistency in mercy and love. Anytime I’ve been spared, rescued, or blessed, it’s always been because of God’s benevolent love. God doesn’t promise something and then change their mind.
That song is taken from your forthcoming new album, 'Rainbows in the Narthex' - what more can you tell us about the album?
Yes, I’ve been very blessed to receive funding from the Ontario Arts Council, an agency of the Government of Ontario - CANADA to release this original music. I feel so honoured that they see value in my music.
For those who aren’t familiar, the old term “Narthex” means the front entrance or gathering space of a church sanctuary. The title, 'Rainbows in the Narthex' signifies that no matter how much folks try to expel or ignore that fact that there are LGBTQ2S+ in the church, we are there, in every church around the world. We belong, just as we are.
What is your approach to songwriting - and would you say it's something that comes easy to you?
I feel as though when I have a message to share, it comes so naturally. Lyrics and melody flow together, as one moving piece.
Aside from your own songs, what music have you been listening to lately?
Guilty pleasures like old school Canadian 80’s - the band ‘Eight Seconds’ and Taylor Swift. :)
If you had to put together the ultimate band, and could pick anyone to join it, who would you invite?
The Edge, Flea, Elton John and Rick Allen.
You describe yourself as a Contemporary Christian / LGBTQ musician, producer, award-winning music educator, entrepreneur, author and church Music Director - tell us a bit more about what some of those labels involve for you.
Outside of being a singer songwriter and touring musician, I own a music school, More Than A Song Studios. I teach roughly around 50-70 students weekly.
As a church music director, I work with our choir each week, prepping them for Sunday morning worship. Also, I am the creator and worship leader at a first-of-its-kind Rainbow Worship Service in the Ottawa Valley. It is a contemporary worship service / ministry geared to LGBTQ2S+ individuals and allies. We meet on the first Sunday evening of the month. It acts as a bridge of learning that assists both the Christian and LGBTQ2S+ communities.
What advice would you give to anyone starting out as a music artist?
As cliche as it sounds, follow your heart and the quiet voice inside. Even if you try to shut it down, it will keep appearing.
What does the rest of this year hold for you?
I’m currently planning a tour to some remote locations in Canada. I’m so very excited for what God has in store! God continues to take me to places I couldn’t dream of on my own. I am releasing tour dates and locations very soon!!
