How does an independent artist go from finding her way in a new city, to performing with not one, but TWO of the biggest stars in the world? Singer, actor and songwriter Naärai Jacobs’ incredible story reveals the possibilities when you maintain your faith in God, prioritize your goals and work hard to pursue your dreams as a creative. Born into a musical family in Sarasota, FL, Naärai grew up surrounded by artists, and watched intently as her father ran a successful regional musical theater troupe. However, her musical path was not yet set in motion, and she felt called to other pursuits until her talents overtook her and guided her into a new path. After graduating magna cum laude from Howard University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, she relocated to Los Angeles to pursue a career in music. She quickly discovered the tough side of the entertainment industry as she struggled to establish herself as an independent artist in a new arena. Her tenacity paid off, and since that leap of faith she has had the incredible opportunity to perform behind superstar Beyonce at her iconic Coachella performance “Homecoming.” If that weren’t enough, she then found herself auditioning for, and receiving a position as one of singers in the Kanye West Sunday Service choir, better known as “The Samples.” Throughout her many accomplishments, Naärai maintains a keen sense of purpose that sees a higher goal than simply performing with A-list artists. Her goal remains to achieve great things for God and to reveal His character by creating exceptional art and music. Key Takeaways from our talk with NaäraiHow her background of  musical theater and growing up in a family of artists helped her find her own creative path How she learned through tough times when she first moved to Los Angeles The importance of building relationships while beginning your creative journeyWhat she learned from working with Beyonce as she performed for her iconic Coachella performance in 2018.    How a chance call and audition resulted in her singing with Kanye West and the Sunday Service choir “The Samples” The importance of keeping her faith as she built her independent career Stay in Touch with NaäraiEmail: naaraimichele@gmail.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamnaarai/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamNAARAI/Twitter: Tap 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!