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Richard Davis and his ensemble, Spirit in Truth, released the album “Purity” this past July at Strong Tower Ministries in Fredericksburg, Va. Since that time he has been receiving positive reviews on the project that was executive-produced by Davis and his wife, Jennifer. In this candid interview, Davis discusses the project and what music means to him. He also reveal what it’s like to be part of the Washington Redskins Marching Band.
Tell me about your project "Purity"?
“The project “Purity” is an album of songs written from the central thought of this scripture. ‘But the hour cometh and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. (John 4:23 KJV)’ When I began to meditate and think about truth in regards to praise & worship the one thing that was on the top of the list was purity!
So I began writing songs that lyrically I believe not only spoke the heart of God through song but also the hearts of people that where giving their lives over to truly be in a place of praise and worship unto God. Songs like “Unified Praise” came forth where we sing about the power of unity and oneness in Praise & Worship, “Give Thanks” written from Ephesians 5:19 and “Everybody Praise” written from Psalms 147. “Psalms 30 (Dedication)” which is a song of encouragement that builds faith and hope in God. The one song that ties the entire Project together is “Purity,” which was written from Titus”: ‘For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ; (Titus 2:11-13 KJV).’”
If you could describe your album in one word what would it be and why?
“Transparent. I would use the word transparent because the Bible says out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. I believe that principal applies to song writing as well. My wife says it like this sometimes when we listen to music 'they don't believe what they are saying' and the truth is when you’re talking about purity, praise, worship and writing from the direct word of God a person really puts their heart on the table and you can really see what's in there. You can only say about God what you know about God so I believe in this album especially in the writing it opened me up to share what revelation of God I have. It is my prayer that this level of transparency will lead people into worship at new levels and in greater depths.”
Which song is closest to your heart?
“The song that is closest to my heart would have to be “Psalms 30.” I wrote this song in the middle of what I would like to call real time experience. I was going through the storm while I was reading and writing about the storm and the victory that was coming to me, if that makes sense. So this song really hits home to me because I didn't write it thinking this song would sound great and it would be a hit but it came out of real conversation and prayer with God during a real life situation where this chapter of scripture spoke to me and ministered to me when I needed it the most and God blessed me to be able to put that time to song and on CD.”
You wrote all of the songs on your album. Where do the songs come from?
“All the songs on this project are written from scripture and my life experience within the certain scriptures.”
Describe your passion for music and ministry.
“My passion for music ministry is like a journey that never ends. I always find some new challenge or a bigger goal. Of course I push the spiritual side of music. I sing gospel music. But I also push in the way of excellence. Excellence in the craft of music, production and musicianship. It's a deep passion of mine that the music that is put out to represent God represents him at the highest level possible. I have a long background in Classical and Jazz music and the one thing that makes those two genres so timeless is the attention to detail and excellence. Every song has 100% quality and makes musical sense. So taking that approach with the music then adding the Holy Spirit in the mix gives you one crazy combination!”
What is your prayer as it relates to this project? What do you hope people get from it?
“It is my prayer that there is a song on this project that can minister to everyone. This project is meant to represent God in a way that is inviting to all people showing people the joy and fun in praise and the intimacy of worship. Encouraging all people saved and unsaved that God loves everyone and he holds the world in his hand. Not one person on this earth has ever been forgotten by God and he loves us all. It's the message of God how amazing he is and how wonderful he is. So it is my prayer that people can find healing, deliverance, joy, peace, restoration, freedom, love, hope, and salvation in this project.”
Talk about being part of the Washington Redskins Marching Band Drumline.
“I was in the drumline back in high school and yes, that was a while ago but like I stated earlier, I love music. One of my best friends, Rodney Johnson is in the drumline and this summer he called me and asked if I wanted to audition for the band. My wife said ‘go for it’ and I did and it has turned out to be one of the most fun things I could ever do in life. I love football and I love the Redskins, so being able to attend the games and be around the team and then represent a great NFL organization like the Washington Redskins is truly and honor.”
As someone involves in the arts in the school system, how important are educational opportunities in the area of fine arts?
“The importance to educational opportunities in fine arts is paramount. There are plenty of studies that show the effects of being involved in some kind of music has on children. And I believe it opens up a whole new world of possibilities for person expression. With music you can express almost any emotion you have and I believe that today children need more places where they can express how they feel in a positive, safe and effective way. The list goes on and on the different areas music touches and all fine arts for that matter. It reaches areas of focus, discipline, thinking, strategy, work ethic and the list goes on. I know I’m going to encourage my kids to be in fine arts and I think other parents should as well”.
What is the one thing you want people to know about Richard Davis?
“One thing I want people to know about me is that I love God and Life. The message inside of that is you are faithful to what you love. So that means you take care of your family and you strive every day to live life pleasing unto God.’
For more updates on Richard Davis follow Perfect Pitch Music Productions. "Purity is available on iTunes, CD Baby and other digital outlets. - Sarah Hearn for the DC Gospel Examiner
Discography
Still working on that hot first release.
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