The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

An intimate setting which facilitated an "unbridled worship experience" was what Ayanna Clarke envisioned for her album release concert at the Golden Gates World Outreach Ministries last Friday.

And her vision became reality.

Those who attended the event got to see the singer open up, become vulnerable throughout her worship, as she shared her songs from her new "So Incredible" album.

One of the things that is special about the record is that it shows Ayanna's journey throughout the different intervals of her life. "Some places insecure, other places fulfilled, and still others just simply trusting that God had more for me," said the psalmist and Tribune columnist.

"I believe we all get to the place where we question 'Why? Why so long, why not me?' Fortunately for me, this album became a sort of catharsis. It not only left me vulnerable - in that listeners would get a sense of my personal battles of wanting more, desiring to use all my talents and abilities - but it also echoes a sense of victory; leaving us with the idea that no matter what you go through, the journey with God is worth it all and you will find happiness in the end."

The event also provided an opportunity for concert-goers to worship in a free and in a personal way.

"I am a worshipper at heart, so whenever I get an opportunity to lead people into God's presence I am humbled and grateful," said Ayanna. "But mostly for me it was working together with friends that was the greatest highlight of it all."

"Junior Scott and the J Groove Band are an amazing team that made me feel comfortable right from the very beginning. In fact, I used a few of them for my 'Never Alone' music video as well. Then of course the background vocalists were not only talented but supportive. I adored the fact that we all came from different religious denominations but were able to work together and laugh at each other and support and bolster each other as well."

Ayanna said her team, including choreographer Ayesha Cleare, made the night a special one.

"We have worked together several times in the past - the Golden Gates Dance Ministry, Tomicka Whymms (decorator), and of course the administration and congregation of Golden Gates World Outreach Ministries who partnered with me seamlessly right from the beginning," she said.

"Then of course the powerful persons who took the stage with me - Rosmery Bethel, Davian Chase, Latasha Taylor, Mericha, Apostle Clifford Smith - all from different denominations, but a powerful demonstration of what can be accomplished when we sincerely love and support each other."

Another highlight for Ayanna achieving something she set out to do.

Now the artist said she will be turning her attention to building the "Ayanna Here" voice note series.

"I'm still pursuing my goal of 5,000 listeners by the end of the year. I will also continue to make contributions to The Tribune through writing. People have been contacting me via social media and letting me know how the articles are a blessing to them," she said.

"Apart from that, more writing, more singing and more sharing my music, not only locally but internationally. So many amazing doors have already started opening and I am grateful. The Bahamas has so many wonderfully talented people and I am honoured to be counted among them."