Sonya McGuire on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Sonya McGuire. Check out our conversation below.

Hi Sonya, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day are sacred: Prayer ,coffee in hand, gratitude in my heart, meditation for my mind, and preparation for an amazing day ahead. I believe that the way you start is the way you’ll finish.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Sonya McGuire. I am a multi-gifted international recording artist, songwriter, producer, musician, and former radio personality. People often describe my stage presence as electrifying and my vocal ability as captivating. I sing with a voice that stirs souls and write lyrics that provoke thought. My goal is always to deliver an unforgettable experience. My music blends neo-soul, gospel, R&B, jazz, soul, and contemporary sounds into what one fan once called “a bottomless barrel of musical ear candy.”

I was born and raised in Lithonia, Georgia, as one of 14 siblings and the daughter of the late Pastor Harold and Naomi McGuire. Music was the heartbeat of my home. As a preacher’s daughter, I was surrounded by sound every day. I learned to sing, act, play instruments, and direct music from a young age. I first expressed my creativity through playing the drums, then grew into singing, piano, and directing. Eventually, I became the musical director at my father’s church. If I could describe myself in two words, I would say I am atmosphere-changing.

My artistry has taken me across the globe and allowed me to touch audiences beyond language and culture. One of my most unforgettable experiences happened during an international tour when a young woman came to me after a performance. Through tears, she tried to express in her native language how deeply my music had moved her. Although I could not understand her words, the connection between us was undeniable. That moment reminded me of what I have always known: music transcends words.

After stepping away from the spotlight following the loss of both my parents within 14 months, I returned with renewed purpose and passion. My singles, “Stronger,” “Come Go With Me,” “He Loves Me” and my new single WIN share a deeply personal look into my journey and artistic evolution.

I am also a community leader and the founder of four organizations that serve people in need:

Sing for a Cure, which supports families affected by cancer through scholarships, medical assistance, school supplies, and college funding.

Psalms of Thanks, which provides food, clothing, financial aid, and essentials to those in need.

Project THINK, a mentoring program for youth and young adults that encourages wise decision-making and life planning.

Blessed to Be a Blessing, which serves the homeless, adopts families during the holidays, and empowers communities through direct outreach and support.

I am more than an artist. I see myself as a vessel of healing, hope, and empowerment through both music and service. My story is still being written, and I believe the next chapter will be the most powerful yet.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A moment that shaped how I see the world is watching music Transend language and cultural barriers.

What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
What have been the defining wounds of my life and how have I healed them?
Three years. Three losses. My mother. My father. My brother. They passed away one after another.
I never imagined walking through life without them. They were my loudest cheerleaders, my strongest supporters, my safe place. I had never known pain so deep or grief so heavy. Since then, life has been a road to healing, an everyday journey of learning to live again, to love again, and to carry their legacy forward. Through it all, God has been my strength, my comfort, and my everything. Without Him, I wouldn’t have made it this far. The memories I have of them are beautiful, and I will carry them with me forever. They live on in my heart, in my smile, and in everything I do.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
It happens overnight.
It does not happen overnight. You have to put in the work and it’s a lot of work so you have to have stick-to-it-ive-ness., which is defined simply as the backbone, heart, persistence, grit, stamina, staying power and the art of never giving up.

The music will speak for itself.
Truth: Amazing songs get ignored all the time. Without strategic marketing, networking, and timing, even a masterpiece can sink without a ripple.

Talent is enough.
Truth: Talent is the entry ticket. Success comes from consistency, business acumen, storytelling, and persistence over years not just ability.

Streaming will save artists.
Truth: Streaming has saved labels and platforms, not most independent musicians. For many artists, it’s pennies per thousand plays unless paired with touring, merch, licensing, or fan monetization.

You Need a Major Label to Succeed
Truth: Many artists thrive independently today using smart marketing and direct fan connection. Major labels aren’t the only path and sometimes they can hold you back more than help.

You Don’t Need to Build Your Own Audience
Truth: Labels or managers can help, but building your own direct fanbase is essential for long-term control and success.

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?
When I’m gone, the story people tell about me to be simple, yet powerful: Her greatest gift was love.

I was a giver by nature if you didn’t have a shirt, I’d give you mine. If you didn’t have a place to stay, I’d help you find one… or open my own door to you. My heart’s mission was to make sure every soul I encountered knew they were seen, valued, and loved.

I once asked an associate what they would say about me if they had to speak at my funeral. Without hesitation, she said, “You are an angel on earth.” Those words nearly brought me to tears, because they reflected the very life I’ve tried to live.

I am also a compassionate community leader and founder of four impactful organizations:

Sing for a Cure – Supporting families affected by cancer through scholarships, medical assistance, school supplies, and college funding.

Psalms of Thanks – Providing food, clothing, financial aid, and essentials to those in need.

Project THINK – A mentoring program for youth and young adults that encourages wise decision-making and life planning.

Blessed to Be a Blessing – Serving the homeless, adopting families during the holidays, and empowering communities through direct outreach and support.

I was raised to serve and taught to believe in the power of giving back. That calling has been evident throughout my life in my commitment to community service, in the organizations I’ve built, and in the countless moments where I’ve chosen to give of myself freely.

My deepest desire is that my life would be a blessing to others that my presence would leave people feeling lighter, stronger, and more loved than before. If that is the legacy I leave behind, then I will have lived well

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.SonyaMcGuireMusic.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonyayolandam/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/SonyaMcguire
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SonyaMcguire1
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sonya.mcguire.77
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SonyaMcGuireMusic
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/sonyamcguiremusic