Gospel singing sensation Tre Thomas performed recently in D.C. at Blues Alley. /Courtesy photoAfter witnessing one of his awe-inspiring performances, it could be safe to conclude that gospel music hasn't been rocked quite as hard by an individual as singing sensation Tre' Thomas.
While the New Orleans-born but Washington, D.C. -bred Thomas has busy these days spreading the word of God through his music, it's been a clear and direct spiritual message that resonates with polish and professionalism.
"They like the context of my music," Thomas said. "Because of my approach, people have been receptive."
He added however, that in taking the Christian approach to his craft, "it can be a little hard because it's a different sound. More importanlty, "it hasn't been a challenge at all for people to relate to me," said Thomas.
The Howard University graduate, who majored in TV and Video Production, said that because the music industry can sometimes be fickle, he always had a back-up plan in mind. So following graduation, he immediately went to work for notable TV stations such as TBS and BET. But Thomas didn't just stick behind the scenes, having recently appeared as a new artist on the 30th season of BET's "Bobby Jones Gospel."
Thomas has also been reflective of a July 6 performance at Blues Alley in D.C's Georgetown, which he said was a major success.
"The crowd was very different," he said. "I wanted to expose myself to different crowds and I hope to take part in more venues that impact the city."
Meanwhile, Thomas pours his soul into every track he creates. He said one song in particular stands out from his freshman album, "A Natural Contrast." According to Thomas the song, "My First Love," which he wrote from the heart, "is very personal to me."
Another song from the album is, "Temptation," and Thomas said the interesting thing about it is that a lot of people aspire to do big things, but have too many distractions around them. His advice: "Just stay focused and don't let things sidetrack you."
Thomas said however, that music isn't the only thing on his mind.
He explained that he's been working tirelessly to give back to his community, and that the best way he knows to do that is through the National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS (NBLCA).
The organization's mission is to educate, organize and empower African-American leaders -- including clergy, elected officials and medical practitioners -- to meet the challenge of fighting HIV/AIDS and other health disparities in their respective communities.
"My goal is to reach the 13-25-year-olds," Thomas said. "There is a lack of education in that age range -- a catalyst for conversation."
Thomas said he also wants to present a summit some time this fall where a variety of issues th timpact the community can be brought to the table.
As for the future of his music?
"It has really become my heart's desire to bring people back to loving each other ... We have lost that component," Thomas said, explaining that he wants to continue using his music as a format for attaining that goal.
Thomas, who is focusing some of his energy on his sophomore album which he expects drop later this year, will also concentrate on hosting his radio show, "Love Ludes."
In conclusion, he said there's one something he wants all his fans to consider: "No matter what your dreams are, go after them. Don't second guess yourself," he said. "And, remember, God loves you."