Joshua Stewart, a budding musician from the Grant's Town Church hosted a 'Music and Artistry Conference' on July 21. The event brought together a stellar panel of gospel award-winning artists and industry experts, leaving attendees inspired and enlightened. 

The panel featured gospel artists Joinae Gibson, Stermon, Colyn Kristopher, and Bahamas Gospel Music Awards CEO Travis Edgecombe. Also on the panel was a special guest, Pastor Pace Fordham former chaplain for the Oakwood Aeolians, and current Associate Pastor of the Shiloh Seventh-day Adventist Church in Cincinnati, Ohio. 

Joinae Gibson emphasized how music is a part of our everyday lives and it possesses the ability to heal and liberate individuals. "For me, music is an escape," Gibson said. "It is the way that I can express myself without fully expressing myself.” "So I can sing about healing and everyone thinks that I'm talking about the audience but I need healing," she added. 

Stermon focused on the misunderstood struggles musicians face in their creative processes. He addressed the common misconceptions surrounding musical artists and the dedication required in honing their craft. 

Travis Edgecombe addressed self-care, which is a crucial aspect often overlooked in the pursuit of musical excellence. He highlighted the importance of checking in with oneself, ensuring that music does not consume an artist to the point of neglecting personal well-being or family. "You have to be well-rounded," Edgecome said. "You have to take a season of a break… because it doesn't make any sense to minster empty." 

Colyn Kristopher revealed the driving force behind his passion for music, recounting a heartfelt flashback when a pastor delivered a special prayer that ignited his artistic calling. 

The Conference provided valuable insights into the dedication required to create meaningful art for God. 

Joshua Stewart currently has a new album "Sincerely" out on streaming Platforms.