BLAKE SMITH

BLAKE SMITH USES GOD GIVEN TALENT TO BLESS OTHERS

By David C. Lannan

OPENING ACT

Blake Smith, like many artists, started his music career in school. He began touring after high school graduation and recently recorded original music at Clarksville Creative Sound, yet to be released. Blake considers Jesus Christ to be his biggest inspiration. He has never had vocal or music lessons, and said, “What I have is purely a gift from God.”

Ever since I was little I have loved music, it’s a part of who I am. - Blake Smith

Q&A WITH BLAKE SMITH

DL: How did you first get started in music?

BS: I was still in high school when I started playing in a band. When I graduated I started playing shows in Dallas/ Ft. Worth which eventually lead to touring across the country.

DL: What is your favorite style or genre of music and why?

BS: Honestly this is a hard question to answer. I listen to almost anything with the exception of rap. But my favorite would have to be praise and worship simply because it touches the soul. I can turn on the radio and listen to it after a hard day and any stress is just gone.

DL: What is a unique opportunity you have had when it comes to performing?

BS: I would say the most unique opportunity I have had wasn’t necessarily on performing, but because of the connections that were made, I had the opportunity to get free backstage and side stage passes for Linkin Park.

DL: Where is/are your favorite place(s) to perform?

BS: I would say one of the best places I have played would’ve been in New Orleans.

DL: Do you remember the first song you sang in public?

BS: Yes I do. The very first song I ever sang in public was Amazing Grace at my church.

DL: What is your inspiration for your songs?

BS: Jesus. Because of him, I am free. Because of him I don’t have to endure the just punishment of my sins. Because of Christ, I am made whole.

DL: What do you find most challenging about the music business?

BS: I honestly don’t find anything about it challenging. I will say that being away from home isn’t something a lot of people can handle. But I know that no matter where I go, Jesus is with me, so although I may feel far away, I know Jesus is with me every step I take.

DL: What is your favorite part of the music business and why? Your least favorite?

BS: My favorite part of the music business is being in the studio. I just find it fun and the possibilities are endless. I don’t really have a least favorite

DL: If you could perform with anyone in the music business who would it be?

BS: Danny Gokey, or Chris Tomlin.

DL: What advice do you have for anyone wanting to get in the music business as a singer/songwriter or musician?

BS: Along the way you will have downfalls. You will have moments where you just want to quit. But if your dream is to play music, then do it. God gave you that dream for a reason, so chase it relentlessly.

DL: Have you always wanted to be a singer/musician? If not, and you couldn’t be in the music business what career would you choose and why?

BS: Ever since I was little I have loved music, it’s a part of who I am. If I absolutely could not do music, I would continue to do what I am already doing which is utility maintenance for a city.

DL: Is there anything you would like to add about your music journey or life in general?

BS: I just hope that these songs I release touch people’s lives and lead them to Jesus.

IN CLOSING