Today we’d like to introduce you to Jonathan Rice.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’m from Henderson, NC. I am the eldest of three children. I am married to my lovely wife, Daja Rice, who is pursuing her Masters of Performing Art at the University of Georgia in Athens, GA. Together, we are the Co-Founders and Artistic Directors of the Rices Family Enterprises LLC. My parents, Pastor Seamon and Brenda Rice, taught me to fear God and to go after my dreams and that’s what I’ve been doing ever since. I started singing at a very young age, which later led to singing in various award winning choirs and touring overseas with the Glory Gospel Singers. In 2016, I was privileged to become a Background Vocalist for Multi- Stellar and Dove Award Winning Gospel Artist, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, and was a part of her Heart Passion Pursuit Album, the iLead Conference in 2018, and other performances. I enjoyed singing and using my gift in these capacities, however, I found myself becoming comfortable.
Eventually, I found the courage to pursue my music and ministry. Upon moving to GA, my wife and I became members of The Harvest Tabernacle Church under the leadership of Apostle Travis Jennings and Pastor Stephanie Jennings. They, along with Worship Pastor Enrique Holmes, have been very instrumental in helping restore and rebirth my love for leading worship and prophetic worship. The rekindling of my music ministry assignment has led to the rebirth of a song that I wrote in 2016 called, “Sing Over Us”, which is now blessing people across the U.S. and in many other countries.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, this journey has not been a smooth road at all. God never promised me a smooth road, however, He did give me a favorable route. When I started pursuing recording my music, I didn’t have any major financial backing or a lot of support. All I had was a word from God and a few friends. During this process, I experienced depression and stress, while trying to regain the confidence to complete this project. The challenges that I experienced made me a better person. As a creative, I’ve learned that sometimes “YOU” have to be your team until God sends you a team. I began working all the resources that I had and God gave me more favor on the way.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am currently an Elementary Music Teacher. Teaching these students has been the absolute best. I love it because I get to do what I love, and also introduce elementary-age students to music. I am overjoyed when shy students become comfortable with their talent or express how they enjoyed my class. There was one student that shared with me that they didn’t even know they could sing until they experienced my class. It is these moments that make me most proud.I am also proud of being able to follow my dreams. I’ve wanted to be a music teacher for years and now I am living out that dream.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Yes, there is one book that I have read three times, called, “Finish” Give yourself the gift if done! This book changed my perspective as to how view accomplishing goals. It is a lifesaver. I encourage those who are on a journey to completing various projects to read this book.
Contact Info:
- Email: Jonathanrice084@gmail.com
- Website: www.jonathanricemusic.com
- Instagram: @jonathanmrice
- Youtube: https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCHl7LKj4jq8VlA31Uggko-g
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