One on One with Angela Alfred Richards
Houston native Angela Alfred Richards not only is blessed with an amazing gift to sing but judging from our One on One with her, she is also a role model in a time when godly examples are scarse. Check out this awesome interview and see why LIRM is already loving everything about Angela Alfred Richards.
Angela, share with our readers your background such as where you hail from. Etc. Share with us some of your journey as well.
Although I am from and still live in the Houston, Texas area, I think the best way for me to provide insight into my background is to share that I am from church. I was saved at an early age and have served in various roles in music ministries: pianist, choir director and, of course, songstress.
You seem to have an infectious personality and gift, Has this caused many to second guess your gift or has it enhanced who you are?
To be honest, I’ve never been the type of person to dwell on what others believe about me or my gifts. Sometimes, people are used to be a distraction to another’s purpose. If I feel into what people had to say, I would not be able to share the gift and personality God equipped me with.
Your voice is amazing and unique, how long have you been singing?
I’ve been singing a very long time—remember I grew up in church—and I recall singing publically around age 8.
What individuals/singers/performers have influenced you in the area of ministering in song?
Having a relationship with God, I know that He has been the greatest influence in me ministering in song. God blessed me with a preaching and quartet-member singing father, Reverend Isaac Alfred, Jr., who is very passionate for Kingdom building. My dad is and will always be my God-given influence in gospel music.
We live in a society where many desire to be like everyone else. What would you say to that person(s) out there who desire to use their gift to sing/perform?
Be sure you are walking in the purpose that God has called for you.
Being a unique individual can be somewhat stressful. How do you handle stress?
One action: prayer.
Many artist cave under peer pressure. What keeps you sane and grounded?
When you are doing what God has purposed you to do, you are at peace. Know that whatever or whomever, God endorses He blesses.
Angela, we are living in crucial times and many singers are somewhat getting away from what is important. In your opinion, how can they remain consistent when it comes to their gift?
While I value the position of experience God has placed me and the advice of others I’ve worked with in the music industry and in church ministry, at the end of the day what makes each person consistent comes from somewhere within.
Some people say if you do the same task for thirty days straight it becomes a part of you, I say take inventory and find out what keeps your clock running and let that motivate consistent behavior.
How do you deal with criticism?
I keep in mind that I can’t please everyone.
What things do you do to keep yourself in a peaceful space?
I never focus on being a people pleaser. I focus on giving God my best and knowing that if I’m doing that my life and actions will touch people in a positive way. That keeps me in a peaceful state of mind.
Share with our readers how blessed they would be to support an artist such as yourself.
As a retired educator, I have worked with children with disabilities and have a special place in my heart for children with autism. I also love teaching children through music and minister via music. Since I consider myself a vessel and not necessarily an artist, for someone to support me is to support the work of God’s kingdom.
As an African America woman, how important is it to have the support of your sister friends/family/supporters?
It’s very important because they know the real you. If your real friends and close family members don’t validate your character then maybe your lifestyle doesn’t match your ministry.
That also translates to being insincere in front of your fans and those supporters who may not have close personal relationships with you.
One of my biggest cheerleaders is my sister and manager, Calandra. I can always count on her to tell me the truth. Everyone needs someone they can trust for that.
In three words: Describe Angela Alfred Richards!
Available. Servant. Caring.
Share with our readers where do you see Angela Alfred Richards headed in the next three years.
I don’t know what the future holds for me but you must know that whatever it is I will be serving God in it.
There are tons of singers out in the world who are striving for that big break. As one of them, what are five important keys to success?
1. I don’t worry about success. When people focus on success, they focus on a title. Titles are not as important as having an opportunity to minister, to speak to the hearts of people.
2. Look for opportunities to minister. At times, it comes without pay but the rewards can be greater than immediate financial gain. It also provides a means for talent development.
3. Know and accept your purpose. My God-given talents and readiness to serve brought me to this point in my career. He endorsed me by giving me my musical abilities so I know that I am blessed.
4. Stay grounded. I have my relationship with God as well as relationships with family and friends with the same values. They help me to stay true to the person God created me to be.
5. Always, always pray.
Be sure and support Angela at her spot as well as her Facebook and Twitter locations.
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