Photos courtesy of Johnny Fan
Twenty-seven-year-old Sir the Baptist is trying to bring relief to the world through his music. Chicago-bred and based in L.A., he talked to rolling out about his music and his mission. Look for his debut album, Preacher’s Kid in August. Read on to find out more about the vocalist’s worldview.
What is the inspiration behind the name Sir the Baptist?
My father was originally a baptist preacher under Reverend Louis Boddie, a great leader who lived from 1878-1965. I believe growing up in “Chiraq” was similar to John the Baptist’s wilderness experience and I felt it best that if I got a chance to use my voice I should use it to be the voice of reason for my people. Lastly, similar to John the Baptist, I feel like I’m a spokesman for the ones that will come after me. A generation that will be the difference we hoped for.
When did you decide you wanted to get into music?
My first music team was called Israel Prophecy. I was just 9 but it meant the most to me. My Auntie Ruth made me business cards with a picture I took in the mall. Great times!
Talk about your journey. How did you become who you are today?
Church every day of the week for 18 years straight, seeing the worst and the best of poverty and spending as much time away from the “cool” as possible to create my own cool. The journey consisted of servicing others so I learned to understand what opportunity is. It only took me being a service to Chance the Rapper for a session and a performance for me to master it. Most artists wake up and want to be the best rapper alive. Carry your a– somewhere and learn to be hired help. Then there are artists that don’t want to make the necessary personal sacrifices to be great. Quit your over working job! Drive [for] Lyft or get a job that will give you a flexible schedule. I got rid of all my expenses — including house — I slept out of the car, I drove [for] Lyft People have house loans, car loans and random perks but wanna be great. Really? Good luck! You’re gonna have to focus on them bills, kid. Meanwhile, someone making sacrifices will beat you at being great every hour and with every extra dollar. You wanna get here? Pay the price. Talent is overrated! Goal-driven visionaries are the ones who win!
What were some of the obstacles or challenges you faced in becoming an artist?
Getting past doubt. Believe it or not most of the most creative and confident people still subconsciously don’t believe they will actually make it. So they sabotage opportunity with the lack of concern for the things they don’t naturally have, aka business chores.
How would you describe your music?
World relief.
Why use the church theme?
I’m from the church. You want me to be a thug? My brothers and sisters were in gangs so they made me go with mom to church. I’m a church boy! That’s all! Can’t fake it. However I’m here to be honest, church boys are nice and ready to meet your parents but also rebel enough to fulfill your urge.
Have you faced any obstacles dealing with your music?
People trying to steal my lame a– style; I guess it’s not that lame …
What have been some of your accomplishments?
DeedPin. [Deedpin is a social media outlet where people post good deeds.] The music is making strides but I can’t explain to you how much joy it brings me to service fans with care packages at these festivals. We have serviced thousands of fans with vitamin C, condoms for safe sex, water, nutrient bars, hand wipes [at] every festival. Fans come to festivals and leave their health outside. Alison, co-founder and Northwestern nurse; Yashua London, HIV activist; and countless other volunteers help fans stay hydrated and healthy at every festival with our own money.
Who are some of the artists you have worked with so far?
Donald Lawrence, Macy Gray, Estelle, Elle Varner, Chance the Rapper, Musiq Souchild, Twista and an a– load of artists.
Who are some artists you want to work with in the future?
Aretha Franklin, Jay Z — although I have met him and maybe I should’ve asked then — Rance Allen, Stevie Wonder, Quincy Jones, Kim Burrell, Shirley Caesar and many more …
What are some of your future goals?
Taking DeedPin beyond my tour and affecting the mission field in a big way.
Anything else you’d like to accomplish?
Becoming the first hip-hop chaplain for the White House, NFL, NBA, Olympics and many other cultural outlets.
Do you plan to continue to live in Chicago?
As long as my mother stays in Chicago and my dad’s street and church reside in Chicago, I [will] live there.
Any last remarks for your fans?
Wherever I am next, find me and bring yo a– to church!
