If there is one artist whose story perfectly sums up what God can do with an artist with a heart for Him, it’s Teja Veal. From her first days of discovering the bass, to playing in the White House and meeting President Obama, this uber-talented bass player, vocalist, songwriter and musical director has radiated joy and humility in every opportunity she’s been given as a musician, songwriter and creative. Tejá Veal, has worked with top jazz, pop and R&B artists for years and has graced many of the biggest stages in the world. Starting as a teen playing bass in her school band, she has since worked with artists like Frank McComb and Musiq Soulchild, and has been the bass player for Grammy winner Janelle Monae since 2013. Her skill has allowed her to travel to six continents, yet she remains humble and gracious at every step. From the moment that she fought to play bass when a teacher thought she was more suited to play violin because she was a girl, Teja has exemplified the role that a strong, talented woman can and should play in the music industry. Not only that, her strong belief in God permeates everything she does, and she shares in this heart-felt conversation how that faith has directed her on every stage - from playing for the Grammys, to the White House,  to becoming the first African-American woman to serve as a campus musical director in NorthPoint Ministries in Atlanta, GA. In this episode, Teja reveals: Why she refused to be relegated to a certain instrument simply because of her gender How she received a prophetic call to play for a major ministry in the middle of a serviceHow she fought through discouragement and depression when she moved and was having no major success How being faithful in small opportunities became a catalyst for big onesWhy she gives credit to God for all of her opportunitiesThe amazing story of her face-to-face meeting with Prince Why attitude and character are more important than talent at the highest levelHow a vision from her mom of her playing at Essence Festival came true Why humility and character have allowed her to keep the opportunities she’s receivedHow she ended up playing bass for Musiq Soulchild in an all-women band How she became the first African-American women musical director in an Atlanta mega-churchTap to send us a text! Support the showJoin our Creative Community In our 360 Membership, you get focused encouragement, guidance, and training on how to thrive as a Christian creator. Joining gives you access to our exclusive app, workshops and community conversations, as we change from being creatively confused to creatively confident! GodandGigs.com/membership PODCAST MERCHGet God and Gigs themed gear, clothing and accessories HERE! GOT VALUE FROM THIS PODCAST? If so, please share your: TIME: Send this episode to someone who you know would enjoy it TALENT: Email your art or music to add to our community to allen@godandgigs.com TREASURE: Tap HERE to help support God and Gigs with a donation! Want to be a guest on The God and Gigs Show? Send us a message on PodMatch, here!