Learning to keep creating even amid life’s challenges and responsibilities
I grew up listening to gospel music and I have not found another genre of music that’s as powerful and uplifting. Every time I sing, write, or play gospel music I am reminded of God’s love for me and I feel connected with God. It’s exciting and energizing to share that connection and hope with people who listen to my music. I also appreciate that gospel music can be a tool for teaching about Christ and his salvation and grace.
I recorded my album, Alive, during the pandemic, at a time when there was a lot of hopelessness. The album is a reminder that we are no longer slaves to sin; because of Christ we can have hope no matter what. My prayer is that anyone listening to Alive will be encouraged. Alive blends gospel music with pop and R&B styles, and I believe it’s the perfect mix for this album.
Alive was recorded in Kitchener, Ontario and released in April 2023. I recorded the album while caring for my family and working full time as a nurse. I did most of my creating and recording on my days off. Or, after my night shifts, I’d come home, send my girls off to school, and then work for a few hours before going to sleep. I am blessed to have an amazing producer, Andrew Horrocks, who works around my schedule.
It wasn’t easy, but my passion for the work drove me to keep going. Being a mom is a gift, and I also love being a singer-songwriter. I feel very privileged to have been given the gift of music by God. Doing what I love to inspire others brings me so much joy. As a musician, I am learning that I can ask God for help with anything, and it really makes creating a lot of fun.
We don’t always feel that we’re good enough, that know how to play an instrument well enough, or that we have the words to a song, but we can still try and offer what we have to God. If you’re passionate about songwriting, or another art form, then keep going even when it gets difficult. Do your best to make time to finish what you’ve started. Yes, there is always tomorrow—but why wait until tomorrow if you can do it today?
Tuzee is a Gospel singer-songwriter who was born and raised in Liberia. She currently lives in Kitchener, Ont. She is a nurse who loves cooking and playing with her kids. In 2024, Tuzee was nominated for the Gospel Album of the Year JUNO award and the GMA Canada Female Vocalist of the Year award.