Today we’d like to introduce you to Hayley Reed.
Hi Hayley, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey with music began, when I was just three years old in San Angelo, TX. I was hearing and learning vocal parts while riding in the car or listening to the record player. When my family moved to Florence, AL, I was fortunate to be placed in an environment where my gift could grow. At First Missionary Baptist Church, of Florence, AL, I began singing in the mass choir at age eight. I was incredibly blessed to be mentored by our choir director, the late Butch McGhee. His experience at Muscle Shoals Sound/ Malaco Records as an executive producer and musician provided me with a foundation I didn’t yet realize would shape my entire life. I am deeply grateful to my parents, Drs. Mitchell & Mechelle Reed who worked tirelessly to find pageants and community choirs that allowed me to find my voice. In high school, my choral director Kristi Montero saw potential in me that I hadn’t yet seen in myself, pushing me toward workshops and honors like the Alabama All-State Choir, where I had the humbling honor of singing under the late Moses Hogan. One of the community choirs I sang with was directed by a man named Joseph Stallworth. He was also instrumental in helping me find my voice.
From the Hill to the Industry
Attending Fisk University was a turning point. Being chosen as a Fisk Jubilee Singer was a responsibility I held with great reverence. My professors Valijia Bumbulis and the late Dr. Paul T. Kwami, (Director of The Fisk Jubilee Singers), instilled a level of excellence and work ethic in me that I carry to this day.
While I was a student, doors opened for me to serve as a background vocalist. I was fortunate to have stood on stages and in studios with icons like Peter Frampton, Eric Clapton, and Neil Young. In the Gospel world, I’ve had the joy of supporting artists like Shirley Caesar and working with the prolific music producers such as the late Sanchez Harley. Each of these moments was a lesson in craft and humility. I graduated with my Bachelor Degree in Music (Vocal Performance) in 2005
Stewardship and Service
In 2006, I started Pnuma Music Group not just to release my own music, but to help coach others in finding their vocal path. I served in the Stellar Awards House Band for 3 years under Kimberly Fleming and Fred Nelson III. In 2016 I joined Dr. Bobby Jones Nashville Super Choir. I was mentored by the late Derrick Lee who taught me the value of finesse and how to create a signaute sound when directing a choir.
In 2020, life called me to Atlanta. While the move was intended to help care for my ailing grandfather, it also led me to a new spiritual home at Friendship Community Church. Under the leadership of Dr. Torin T. Dailey, I’ve had the pleasure of serving here for nearly five years—first as a Worship Leader and now as the Director of Music.
Looking back, every milestone—from my childhood to the stages I’ve stood on—has been a result of God’s grace and the community that believed in me. I’m grateful to continue using my gift to serve my church and my family
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?
In many ways, my journey has been a beautiful unfolding of God’s grace, but I would be less than honest if I said the road was always smooth. Behind the highlights and the professional milestones, there have been seasons of deep stretching and personal refinement. One of my greatest internal battles was the desire for acceptance. When you are gifted with something as personal as your voice, it’s easy to tie your self-worth to how people receive it. For a long time, I struggled with the sting of rejection and the exhausting pursuit of wanting everyone to like me. I wanted to be seen, understood, and accepted exactly for who I am.
The hardest, yet most liberating lesson I’ve had to learn is that everyone won’t like you. I had to realize that another person’s opinion of me doesn’t change the value of the gift I’ve been given. Now, I focus on a simpler, more peaceful goal: do my best, and love people for who they are. We are all on this earthly journey together, and I’ve come to understand that we are one another’s mirrors.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I have the profound honor of serving as the Director of Music at Friendship Community Church. In the church world, this is equivalent to being a “Minister of Music,” a role that—on a global scale—is still largely held by men. Stepping into this space as a woman has required both strength and grace, but I believe what truly sets me apart is not just my title, but the excellence and heart I pour into the ministry. What I Do & Who I Serve
My work is expansive and deeply rooted in building community through sound. I currently serve:
• Four Active Choirs: Our Church Choir, Children’s Choir, Youth Choir, and Bell Choir.
• Two Specialized Choirs: Our Men’s and Women’s Choirs.
• Worship Leadership: I lead and mentor our Praise & Worship team and our band.
To me, leadership is serving. I don’t just direct voices and sound; I strive to serve the individuals behind them. Whether I am coaching a child or leading the band, my specialty lies in vocal arrangement, production, and the ability to bridge the gap between technical precision and spiritual authenticity.
What I Am Known For
I am known for being a “builder” of people and a shepherd of gifts. I believe my reputation is built on the fact that I lead with a passion for the person, not just the performance. Though it’s often mistaken and misunderstood for being “aggressive,” I want to pull the BEST out of people and make an impression that leaves a positive experience. I miss the mark sometimes, but GOD KNOWS my heart for his people and my love for the craft. I’ve worked with amazing artists in the secular and gospel platforms, but I bring that same level of professional expectation and excellence to every rehearsal at Friendship.
What I Am Most Proud Of
Without a doubt, I am most proud of the growth of the people I serve. Watching them evolve personally and professionally often brings me to tears.
A recent example that fills my heart with pride was our holiday season. We had the privilege of ministering alongside Bishop Jason Nelson and Rudy Currence. My teams had to learn over 18 pieces of complex music and—more importantly—make that music “stick” so it could truly reach the hearts of the congregation. They didn’t just meet the challenge; they exceeded it. They did that.
Seeing them realize their own potential is the greatest reward of my career. My goal is to continue showing that when a woman leads with excellence and a servant’s heart, she can create a space where everyone thrives.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
The Spiritual Foundation Firstly, all glory belongs to God and my Savior Jesus Christ. It is by faith alone that I have come this far. He is the one who provides the resilience I need to push through when the road gets difficult and the strength to stand when I feel weary.
My Number One Cheerleaders
My parents, Drs. Mitchell and Mechelle Reed, are my rocks. They are my prayer partners and my constant advocates. Most importantly, they have taught me the invaluable lesson of spiritual discipline: the importance of not moving until I have clearly heard God’s voice.
Lessons from My Elders
My grandparents have provided the blueprint for my character:
• The late Benjamin Grooms: He instilled in me the grit and tenacity to never give up, no matter the obstacle.
• Bernice Grooms: To this day, my grandmother teaches me the necessity of daily prayer as the only way to receive true direction and peace.
• Aunts Pamela Richardson and Kimberly Grooms: They have modeled the art of caregiving, teaching me that whether at home or in the workplace, taking care of those you love is a priority.
My Ministry Village
The people I serve at Friendship Community Church are more than just a team; they are my teachers. They have taught me how to listen more deeply and how to both give and receive love. They keep me accountable and “before the cross,” allowing Jesus to hide me under His grace as I lead.
Finally, I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support of my pastor, Dr. Torin T. Dailey, and the Church Administration. Their constant prayer, guidance, and belief in my vision have provided the stability I need to serve with excellence.
Pricing:
- Vocal Coaching: Individual $50 hour
- Vocal Coaching: Class: $200 (up to 10)
- Clinician: email for more information
- Vocal Arrangements: email for more information
- Production: email for information
Contact Info:
- Email: hayleyreed46@gmail.com
- Instagram: @hayleydeonna
- Facebook: @hayleydeonna
Image Credits
Photo Credits: Brenda Williams
