Today we’d like to introduce you to Wayne Chavis.
Wayne, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Wayne Ray Chavis, a solitary musical force, has etched his name in the vast landscape of independent artists. Specializing in Christian, country, and folk genres, Chavis defies convention as a one-man band, proficient in rhythm guitar, drums, harmonica, lead guitar, keyboards, synthesizer, vocals, and background vocals. The absence of airplay and television appearances hasn’t hindered Chavis; instead, it fuels his commitment to crafting authentic, self-produced music.
In his discography, available exclusively for download, standout tracks include “Treat Me Like Your Trucker,” a precursor to the upcoming EP slated for 2024. Other notable compositions like “Death Row,” “Valley Of Peace,” “XMas Tides,” “Christmas Tithes,” “Pain is Weakness,” “Lil Country Church,” “All My Faith,” and “Santa Crys” showcase Chavis’s diverse musical influences.
A distinctive gem in Chavis’s repertoire is “Santa Crys,” a lyrical blend of Christianity, Santa Claus, and Jesus. This imaginative piece pushes the boundaries of songwriting, presenting a unique challenge that Chavis embraces with his signature style.
Similarly, “I Wrote A Letter To Momma” delves into the depths of personal loss, inspired by Chavis’s mother’s passing in 2018 due to Supranuclear Palsy. The poignant yet moving composition reflects his closeness to his parents and the spiritual journey that ensued after their departure. Through grief, Chavis found solace in Christianity, a theme reverberating through his musical narrative.
Another record, “Beyond The Stars,” captures the essence of a true-to-life Christmas experience for drivers on the road. Addressing the bittersweet reality of not always being home for the holidays, this song resonates with the struggles faced by many.
Chavis’s musical influences are as diverse as his repertoire. Kid Rock, known for his tongue-in-cheek lyrics, holds a significant place in Chavis’s admiration. The legendary B.B. King also plays a pivotal role, with a memorable conversation at the age of 12 leaving an indelible mark on the aspiring artist.
Looking ahead, Wayne Ray Chavis envisions a promising future. His immediate plans include the release of an EP in 2024 and the potential authorship of his first book. In the long run, he hopes to secure airplay on platforms like AM/FM and SiriusXM, marking the trajectory of an artist determined to carve his niche in the vast realm of independent music.
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?
Acceptance is always a struggle. Folks are quick to judge and cut you off. Obviously it’s the sign of the times.
Then there’s too many shows on television that promote anyone can be a judge. Of course the most popular judges are the most controdictive and hateful. Then as the youths watch the shows the parents do not point out to them that this is not appropriate behavior. We are not to judge folks, or to belittle them. Especially in a way that may damage them mentally or emotionally for the remainder of their life. The producers of these shows do not care about the mental state of the contestants. Only the views and popularity that the humiliation will bring to their 30 minute segments.
Then of course the acceptance of the radio stations. They are not open to independent artists either. It is less than rare that you hear an indie artist played on any major radio station.
And I’m not just talking about the pop stations but also the Christian radio stations as well. I reached out to Christian radio stations and college radio stations but never heard anything back from anyone.
But thankful to Jesus that my fans go through the process of adding my music to their iHeartRadio, Amazon Music and,Pandora Radio, Spotify and other streaming platforms playlists and listening to my music. The love and loyalty and support of my devoted fans are my true family.
The fans that download my Xmas Tithes Book, rather it be paperback audiobooks or ebooks, they are my family.
God always makes a way. Thank Jesus for connecting us together.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I wear many different hats. I operate a small trucking company, I write songs, record and produce my music. I am a one man band, I learned to play many different instruments growing up and learning to play them has definitely helped me in my music career. All the music in my songs are played by my hands. Of course I pray and credit all of my talents and inspiration from God. Only through him I am able to create the music that I do. I ask for God to help me in every aspect of my life and to bless those who listen to my heart felt music. That my lyrics won’t be just foolish jiberish but to bring a message as well. To make the listener to think about what is being said.
My debut book Xmas Tithes The Book 2024 got a controversial whipping by folks. I lost a few followers because of the X
But as I see it , it is not an X but a cross is Christ as he carried his own cross to his crucifix.
X is the closest letter on the typewriter to the Cross symbol. To me it is Christ right there on your keyboard. But as it turns out the least used letter in the American language. Just as Christianity is the least popular religion in the world unfortunately.
But my faith is real. Not perfect and I struggle with my own spiritual warfare everyday. I stand firm with Jesus Christ and know that he is the inspiration behind my music and my life.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Life is about taking risks. Don’t expect to get it right straight out of the gate. Enjoying the journey and learning from your mistakes will make you better. Experience is the best teacher. What ever your passion is you should follow it. If you don’t succeed then don’t sweat it. Ask God for his guidance. We are all unique beings. God loves everyone and is always waiting to hear from us. He needs to hear from us daily. To speak to God daily is to follow him daily. The biggest risk you can take is not to follow Jesus daily and die without any personal relationship with him.
If you follow your passion and include God with it then you’ll definitely never fail. You may never be a megastar but it is more about the quality than the quantity. To be a miserable millionaire or to be a successful content creator.
I’ll take contentment. To be happy and proud of myself and believing in God for his mercy and grace in my life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://wayneraychavis.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/wayneraychavis_official
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/wayneraychavis
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/wayneraychavis
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/wayneraychavis
- Other: https://www.iheart.com/artist/wayne-ray-chavis-31217693?cmp=ios_share&sc=ios_social_share&pr=false
