Immanuel Zechariah of College Park on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We recently had the chance to connect with Immanuel Zechariah and have shared our conversation below.

Good morning Immanuel, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
“I’m most proud of the foundation I’ve built in people’s lives — the kind of impact that doesn’t always make headlines or show up in photos. Over the years, through my books, music, ministry, and mentoring, I’ve been quietly sowing seeds of encouragement, faith, and transformation. Whether it’s inspiring someone to take control of their health, deepening a person’s walk with God through worship, or sparking creativity and purpose in another’s journey, those unseen investments are the real legacy. They’re the lives uplifted, the hope restored, and the dreams reignited — even if no one else is watching.”

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
“My name is Immanuel Zechariah — I’m a musician, author, and creative entrepreneur with a passion for blending faith, artistry, and wellness into experiences that uplift and inspire. Through my books, like The Melody of Worship and Get Busy Living, I help people grow spiritually and live healthier, more purposeful lives. As the founder of The Gospel Jazz Café and leader of The Immanuel Experience Ensemble, I create spaces where music, culture, and community meet in powerful ways. What makes my work unique is that every project — whether it’s a live performance, a book, or a wellness program — is built with the intention to not just entertain, but to transform. Right now, I’m working on expanding our live events and tours, while also equipping other creatives and authors to share their own God-given gifts with the world.”

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
“The greatest example of work ethic came from my parents. My father was a no-nonsense, hardworking man who loved his family deeply. He held a steady job during the week and often took on side jobs over the weekend. He would wake up around 4:00 a.m. to head to work and sometimes wouldn’t return home until late at night. My mother was just as dedicated — working a regular job, then coming home to cook dinner, wash clothes, iron, and mend torn shirts. They were both true troopers, showing me by example what dedication, responsibility, and love for family really look like.”

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes! it use to be almost every other day, but as I grow closer and closer to the man I need to be, my load is lighten. I’m learning to lean more on the Lord. The road I’ve chosen is hard. I often feel like a pioneer, clearing the path for something or someone else. But I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything. After all, they say it’s not about the destination, but the journey itself. I’ve also learned to be careful what you ask God for — because when He grants it, the blessings often come wrapped in challenges, disappointments, and setbacks, that is if you try to do things on your own…Now more than ever I trust in the text that says I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. The flip side is also true. I can do nothing by myself only through Christ. I’m not complaining — but you did ask the question.

Every first Sunday, I host The Gospel Jazz Café. I give everything I have on that stage — my energy, my talent, my stamina. If I can be transparent, by the time the show ends, I’m completely drained, and I’ll say to myself, ‘That’s it, I’m not doing this again.’ But the Most High knows I can’t live without playing my music. And the Gospel Jazz Cafe is a life long dream of mine where people can come together in a safe place and enjoy theirselves in clean christian environment. For all the hard work, the journey is deeply rewarding, and I’m grateful for the opportunity He’s blessed me with.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
“I’m committed to helping people understand that there is an answer for all the sickness, death, and disease in the world — and that answer is found in aligning ourselves with the One who created us. When we follow His ‘playbook,’ we not only find healing for the body, but peace for the soul and direction for life. Through my books, music, and events, I share this message in ways that inspire people to live fully, love deeply, and walk in the purpose they were designed for — no matter how long it takes for the seed to grow.”

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
That I loved the Most Hight and served the people…

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lulu.com/spotlight/zechariahspublishing
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/imman14uel
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Immanuel-j2m

Image Credits
Emele Jones Photographer