We were lucky to catch up with Sydney Andrea recently and have shared our conversation below.

Sydney, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

I think every year I have a moment where I have to re-inspire myself that this is what I am made for. I am creative and I have a God-given ability to create new ways of expressing my own and others’ experiences in music that allows me to help people and myself, journey through life. I have a gift. I have a role to use that gift, as we all do. My gift just happens to not be the “average” gift you see in society. Although I don’t think that’s true, I just think a lot of people don’t touch the gift they have. They’re too scared or not brave enough to fully invest in it because a lot of people want to experience the norm. I don’t blame anyone for that, it’s safe, comfortable, and allows more flexibility. As an artist, I crave that sense of stability that could come from what’s deemed as “normal” jobs…but the unrest I would feel would not be worth the trade. I crave adventure, I want to see the unknown and experience the creative inklings in my head. I don’t know if I would’ve lived up to my potential, or have gotten all I could experience out of my life if I didn’t accept who I am. I believe that’s true for us all. Whether you’re gift and passion lends itself to being a doctor, an admin, or an actor, be who you are. Once you know who you are, you’re why, and who you’re not, decisions don’t become easier in life, but they become a lot clearer. So while yes, there are times I want to lead a “normal” life (usually when artistry isn’t going well at the moment) I remind myself of who I am and who I’m not, and the decision to continue seems as if it’s the only option… every time.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m a multi-genre artist who’s been radically changed through the love of Jesus. My music delves into the struggle, victory, and ever-present kindness I’ve experienced throughout my walk with Christ. I’ve been in Dallas, TX since 2022, and outside of music, I love spending time with my friends, serving at my local church, and exploring the nature of the one whom my soul loves.

I’ve been writing and creating ever since I was young. I feel like my story is similar to most artists’ in that I started out singing in church, and since then have been cultivating my unique sound. I don’t like to be put in a box so it’s hard to say what genre, I just create music how I hear it in my head!

I’ve been releasing my music since 2022 and have been growing and evolving as an artist since then. It’s a passion, a labor of love, and investment, but always worth it when I hear how the songs help and relate to people from all walks of life. I count it a privilege, I have this gift and so I have an obligation to my Creator and myself to use it for good, we all do!

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

The concept of joy is something that I have been stretched in, and at times we all do. I’m an optimist but I think there are seasons when even a “but at least” person like me is challenged to keep believing.

I think honestly this past year has been extremely testing of my why. I’ve experienced immense heartbreak, empty promises, switch-ups, and a healthy amount of “what the heck” from all the abrupt turns life has brought without my permission. But, in the midst of that, I think my creativity has fertile ground to thrive. In your worst situations, that’s when your why is formed. My why was formed this year, coming out of all the trials of 2024, I have such a clear concept of what I want out of life, what I won’t tolerate, and what my purpose truly is. That’s what testing brings.

To know that joy does come in the morning has been grounding, it truly is my strength, and keeping a heart of gratitude amidst it all has planted the seed of resilience, which I don’t think anyone asks for but once you receive it, and see the fruit that comes from it, you’ll treasure it forever.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most impactful thing I could do is inspire someone to believe more for themselves and God in their journey or inspire them to continue in their lane of creativity.

I’ve been privileged to run into people who’ve enjoyed my music, and to hear how a 5-minute song changed someone’s whole perspective on their situation or helped get them through a tough season is my why. Hearing those helps me know I’m operating on purpose, and I think that’s more rewarding than anything.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/sydneyandrea
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imsydneyandrea
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/imsydneyandrea
• Youtube: http://youtube.com/@sydneyandreaa

Image Credits

Photographer: Chloe Johnson