Today we’d like to introduce you to Calandra Gantt
Hi Calandra, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I began singing at the age of 3 and started playing instruments by 9. By 13, I was directing choirs and performing at various events across the city. I attended North Atlanta School of Performing Arts High School and furthered my music education at Morris Brown College and Milner School of Music. Over the past 20 years, I have built a career as a professional singer and music artist, releasing music and earning recognition in the industry. Currently, I am the co-owner of BlueMile Music Consultants and co-host the award-winning podcast, Conversations with BlueMile. Today, I am an award-winning recording artist, actively working in multiple facets of the music industry.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road has not always been smooth, but it has been worth every challenge. Throughout my journey, I’ve faced numerous obstacles, including financial setbacks and being underestimated in a male-dominated field, particularly in production. Additionally, I’ve grappled with internal struggles, learning to embrace my identity as a singer and artist. Despite these difficulties, each experience has contributed to my growth and resilience in the industry.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Calandra Gantt has been anointed to minister through music since the age of 3, and she has passionately pursued this calling ever since. With over 30 years in the music industry, Calandra is renowned for her energetic live performances and her ability to infuse every song with her unique style. She firmly believes that true praise and worship originate from a personal relationship with Christ, which has deeply influenced her songwriting and artistry.
In addition to being a celebrated singer and songwriter, Calandra is a musical directress, teacher, minister, instrumentalist, community servant, actress, arranger, producer, radio/TV host, mentor, and businesswoman. Her journey includes a commitment to blending jazz and contemporary styles with traditional praise and worship, creating a distinctive sound that resonates through her expressive lyrics and vocals. Though gospel is her primary focus, she has also studied and performed various genres, including old school, R&B, jazz, and classical music.
Calandra’s contributions extend beyond music. She actively volunteers and participates in community events, partnering with organizations like Mind Building Academy to support local youth through summer camp programs and scholarships. Her music ministry has taken her to Canada, the Bahamas, and across the U.S., sharing stages with both well-known and independent artists. She has also been licensed and ordained to preach, known for her dynamic and straightforward teaching style.
Raised in her home church under Pastor and First Lady Willie Montgomery, Calandra committed her life to Christ at age 9 and served in numerous roles, including Youth/Young Adult Overseer, Sunday School Teacher, Minister of Music, and Praise & Worship Leader. She directed her first choir at 13 and continues to nurture and develop choirs to this day. Currently, she serves as the praise and worship leader at Power of Faith International Worship Center in Decatur, GA, and as a worship leader at Calvary Baptist Church in Jonesboro.
Calandra’s numerous accolades include being a 4x Rhythm of Gospel Nominee, YGEA Award Nominee, 5x Prayze Factor People’s Choice Award Nominee, and Music Love Awards Praise/Worship Artist Winner. She is also the recipient of the 2015 Akademia Award for Best Christian/Pop Album and the 2017 Prayze Factor People’s Choice Awards Praise and Worship Artist of the Year. Her radio and TV career includes hosting “The Princess of Praise Show” and later her own television show on NowAChildProductions Broadcast Network.
As one of the CEOs of the award-winning BlueMile Music Consultants, LLC, Calandra is dedicated to elevating indie artists and setting new industry standards. She is a member of SAGMA and serves as a voting member for the NAACP Image Awards and on the board for the Gospel Choice Music Awards. Her recent releases include the singles “He’s Good (Live)” and “Bless His Name (Live),” and her live project The Praise, Worship, and Soul Experience Vol.1 dropped in September 2021. Her single “Oh How I Love Jesus” reached #31 on the UGN Global Top 50 Urban Soul Charts, and “Bless His Name” charted on multiple Billboard and DRT Global charts.
Calandra’s ongoing mission is to inspire and empower through her music and life. She was honored to perform at the International Gospel Summit in the UK and received the 2023 Contemporary Album of the Year at the S&M Gospel Awards. Her podcast, Conversations with BlueMile, has also garnered recognition. What I am most proud of is the longevity I’ve maintained in an industry that can be challenging and unforgiving. My unique voice and sound distinguish me from my peers. Calandra’s prayer is that every interaction leaves others inspired, encouraged, and closer to God.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is to be authentically yourself. When you are true to who you are, the people who are meant to be in your life will naturally be drawn to you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.calandragantt.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calandraganttpop3/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CalandraGanttPrincessofPraise/
- Twitter: https://x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Fcalandra_pop3
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFnwJu85sbLuR4md6FKgiPQ
Image Credits
Photos courtesy of Marie Thomas (Celebrity Photographer)
