Blake Melvin, songwriter and spoken word artist, and Joy Jackson, gospel vocalist and R&B performer, share how lived experiences, authentic emotion, and divine timing shaped their powerful collaboration "The Calm Before the Storm"—a song about finding love amid chaos.

In this episode of Cloud Record Music Podcast, Maurine McFarlane sits down with songwriter Blake Melvin and vocalist Joy Jackson to explore truth, growth, and the power of authentic storytelling in music. Blake shares his journey from technical rapper to storyteller, explaining how real relationships and core memories fuel his writing. Joy reveals how she channeled her wedding day emotions into "Calm Before the Storm" and discusses overcoming twenty years of fear to step into the spotlight. They dive into the difference between hits and classics, how theater training shapes their artistry, and why all music is a gift from God regardless of genre. Blake opens up about his intentional evolution toward heart-centered songwriting, while Joy discusses balancing her gospel roots with R&B expression and her upcoming gospel album. It's an inspiring conversation about artistic maturity, divine connections, and creating music that meets people exactly where they are.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

Music Platforms to Blake Melvin & Joy Jackson

Instagram (Blake Melvin): https://www.instagram.com/reallyblakesshow/ 

EVEN: https://www.even.biz/artists/blake-melvin 

YouTube (Black Melvin): https://www.youtube.com/@TheBlakeMelvinshow 

YouTube (Joy Jackson): https://www.youtube.com/@JoyJackson1126 

Calm Before the Storm by Joy Jackson & Blake Melvin: 

Lifted by Joy Jackson: https://youtu.be/JGk1B6chwBE?si=mDtxIpyKxTH-YfqE 

Drop Top (Hood Beyonce) https://youtu.be/gmVRN5lKRAI?si=QgG2P5nn5vEAHLo5 

Forever - https://youtu.be/wqXZer3zQvA?si=8lmaMzxtBTLXIzNY 

Westbound - https://youtu.be/aSDjatO8lOs?si=K6ofSL6IgK-pKddD 

Master’s Dollhouse - https://youtu.be/qwZqk3V1QZQ?si=mMMT_rJLOcJwDGbn 

APB (Freestyle) - https://youtu.be/5fscQFf--jo?si=gF6od2xWSK_jmPEW 

Oak Hill Towers - https://youtu.be/rqzRiydLmS0?si=OURaviKOg-tLjPpH 

Connect with Maurine McFarlane & Cloud Music Records LLC

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maurine-mcfarlane-2a5836161

Music Platforms to Cloud Records LLC Music:

I Am Strong (EP) by Capathia Jenkins – https://capathiajenkins.hearnow.com/i-am-strong-2 

Jesus Christ is Lord by Carmella Green  – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord

Jesus Christ is Lord (Instrumental) by Carmella Green  – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord-instrumental 

Jesus Christ is Lord (Radio Edit) by Carmella Green – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord-radio-edit  

There is A Time (EP) by Garrick V. Morgan & Valerie V. Gay – https://garrickvmorgan.hearnow.com

Fighting for My Destiny (Prayer Meditation Music) by Maurine McFarlane & Jennifer Thomas – https://maurinemcfarlane.hearnow.com/fighting-for-my-destiny-prayer-meditation-music-3 

Luchando por Mi Destino Música para la Oración de Meditación ) by Maurine McFarlane & Maria Antonella Moreno Maldonado – https://maurinemcfarlane.hearnow.com/fighting-for-my-destiny-prayer-meditation-music 

Joan Eno Otitoyomi, Nigerian performing artist and creative educator, shares how her cultural heritage, passion for contemporary dance, and commitment to authentic storytelling fuel her transformative work including her productions Ibere and Kintsugi.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Show notes:

In this episode of Cloud Record Music Podcast, Maurine McFarlane sits down with Nigerian performing artist Joan Eno Otitoyomi to explore culture, storytelling, and transformation through dance and theater. Joan shares how her heritage fuels her creative work, from her production Ibere—meaning “the beginning,” encouraging people to take bold steps despite fear—to Kintsugi, a piece about repairing mindsets and challenging societal norms. They discuss her experience representing Nigeria at the Holland Festival in Amsterdam, her journey from self-doubt to creative confidence, and her role as a performing arts instructor empowering young people. Joan opens up about using art to address national issues and her vision for connecting with global audiences while staying rooted in authenticity. It’s an inspiring conversation about embracing new beginnings, staying real in your storytelling, and using the arts to spark dialogue and drive meaningful change.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

Music Platforms to Joan Eno 

Instagram (@dancebug08): https://www.instagram.com/dancebug08 

Instagram (@officialjecs): https://www.instagram.com/officialjecs 

Connect with Maurine McFarlane & Cloud Music Records LLC

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maurine-mcfarlane-2a5836161

Music Platforms to Cloud Records LLC Music:

I Am Strong (EP) by Capathia Jenkins – https://capathiajenkins.hearnow.com/i-am-strong-2 

Jesus Christ is Lord by Carmella Green  – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord

Jesus Christ is Lord (Instrumental) by Carmella Green  – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord-instrumental 

Jesus Christ is Lord (Radio Edit) by Carmella Green – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord-radio-edit  

There is A Time (EP) by Garrick V. Morgan & Valerie V. Gay – https://garrickvmorgan.hearnow.com

Fighting for My Destiny (Prayer Meditation Music) by Maurine McFarlane & Jennifer Thomas – https://maurinemcfarlane.hearnow.com/fighting-for-my-destiny-prayer-meditation-music-3 

Luchando por Mi Destino Música para la Oración de Meditación ) by Maurine McFarlane & Maria Antonella Moreno Maldonado – https://maurinemcfarlane.hearnow.com/fighting-for-my-destiny-prayer-meditation-music 

Tony G. Turner, Dallas-Fort Worth songwriter and producer, discusses his marriage anthem DaDot, the COVID-inspired dance track Girl I Want to Dance, and his songwriting journey shaped by real-life experiences while building a platform for undiscovered talent.

In this episode of Cloud Record Music Podcast, Maurine McFarlane sits down with Dallas-Fort Worth songwriter and producer Tony G. Turner to explore the heart and craft behind his music. Tony shares his personal story behind DaDot, a marriage anthem born from his 36-year journey through love, conflict, and faith that took years to complete. He opens up about creating Girl I Want to Dance during COVID lockdown as a tribute to his wife, his songwriting philosophy that "every day is a song," and how real-life experiences shape lyrics that speak to universal struggles like pain, love, and redemption. Tony also discusses his collaborative approach with talented musicians, his commitment to fair splits and protecting artists in the industry, and his vision of becoming a platform for undiscovered talent. It's an inspiring conversation about staying true to your craft, building community, and finding success in the relationships and love of the game.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

Connect with Tony G Turner:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyg.turner/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonygturner 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weare8studios 

Website: https://weare8studios.com/artists/tony-g-turner/ 

Twitter/X: https://x.com/GotSomethig2Say 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2YdMOLwTr56YgIQoCze9NH?si=zyBYJ17bTneBOMvbw5X0Iw 

Music Platforms to Tony G Turner:

DaDot by Tony G Turner – 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0_7eJWEZXk 

Girl I Want to Dance by Tony G Turner feat. DaVante Thornton – 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ony6A4atKLM 

Still in Love by Tony G Turner – 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmS3C0OOgMo 

Steppin Out by Tony G Turner feat. Britney Holmes – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5yjxf0kIWOg&feature=youtu.be 

Connect with Maurine McFarlane & Cloud Music Records LLC:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maurine-mcfarlane-2a5836161

Music Platforms to Cloud Records LLC Music:

I Am Strong (EP) by Capathia Jenkins – https://capathiajenkins.hearnow.com/i-am-strong-2 

Jesus Christ is Lord by Carmella Green  – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord

Jesus Christ is Lord (Instrumental) by Carmella Green  – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord-instrumental 

Jesus Christ is Lord (Radio Edit) by Carmella Green – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord-radio-edit  

There is A Time (EP) by Garrick V. Morgan & Valerie V. Gay – https://garrickvmorgan.hearnow.com

Fighting for My Destiny (Prayer Meditation Music) by Maurine McFarlane & Jennifer Thomas – https://maurinemcfarlane.hearnow.com/fighting-for-my-destiny-prayer-meditation-music-3 

Luchando por Mi Destino Música para la Oración de Meditación ) by Maurine McFarlane & Maria Antonella Moreno Maldonado – https://maurinemcfarlane.hearnow.com/fighting-for-my-destiny-prayer-meditation-music 

Joy Jackson, gospel vocalist from Pennsylvania, shares how her faith, truth, and devotion to God’s timing shape the heartfelt sound behind her new releases Lifted and Calm Before the Storm.

In this episode of Cloud Record Music Podcast, Maurine McFarlane chats with gospel singer Joy Jackson about faith, truth, and the heart behind her music. Joy shares how her journey began at just three years old in church, how scripture became her greatest inspiration, and why every song she sings must be rooted in truth. They talk about her latest dual release, Lifted and Calm Before the Storm and how collaboration with producer Austin Woodlin and songwriter Blake Melvin brought new creative depth to her sound. Joy also opens up about her upcoming project, Heart of a Worshipper, a long-awaited album of original songs written over two decades of devotion and transformation. It’s an uplifting, spirit-filled conversation about trusting God’s timing, honoring your calling, and using music to inspire, heal, and lift others higher.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

Music Platforms to Joy Jackson

Lifted by Joy Jackson: 

Connect with Maurine McFarlane & Cloud Music Records LLC

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maurine-mcfarlane-2a5836161

Music Platforms to Cloud Records LLC Music:

I Am Strong (EP) by Capathia Jenkins – https://capathiajenkins.hearnow.com/i-am-strong-2 

Jesus Christ is Lord by Carmella Green  – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord

Jesus Christ is Lord (Instrumental) by Carmella Green  – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord-instrumental 

Jesus Christ is Lord (Radio Edit) by Carmella Green – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord-radio-edit  

There is A Time (EP) by Garrick V. Morgan & Valerie V. Gay – https://garrickvmorgan.hearnow.com

Fighting for My Destiny (Prayer Meditation Music) by Maurine McFarlane & Jennifer Thomas – https://maurinemcfarlane.hearnow.com/fighting-for-my-destiny-prayer-meditation-music-3 

Luchando por Mi Destino Música para la Oración de Meditación ) by Maurine McFarlane & Maria Antonella Moreno Maldonado – https://maurinemcfarlane.hearnow.com/fighting-for-my-destiny-prayer-meditation-music 

Tonia Omoh, Nigerian gospel artist, shares how her faith, family, and Holy Spirit–led partnership with her husband fuel the heartfelt worship behind songs like “Hosana,” “Jesus,” and “Onyeoma.”

In this episode of Cloud Record Music Podcast, Maurine McFarlane chats with Nigerian gospel singer Tonia Omoh about the faith, family, and purpose behind her powerful worship music. Tonia shares how the Holy Spirit guides every part of her process—from writing songs with her husband, Apostle Charles Omoh, to recording tracks that bring healing and hope. They talk about the meaning behind songs like “Hosana,” “Jesus,” and “Onyeoma,” what it means to live a life of consecration, and how music has become a ministry for her whole family. It’s a soulful, spirit-led conversation about using music to bring people back to Christ.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

Music Platforms to Tonia Omoh

“Hosanna” Official Audio: https://youtu.be/rdB3-iJ0nnI?si=BXurR5yyOTqzYSxa 

“Onyeoma”:  https://youtu.be/6OQss5EQWPI?si=ZfDTX-BJ2XW6dFOU 

“Smoke of Worship”  Live: https://youtu.be/eAM8bLu-UJY?si=aj-bl_qTq9EtsLOH 

“Amazing Grace” – Wekobiro – (Official Video): https://youtu.be/rkXyGkulZP8?si=qnq0uWXoBU9W1qLq 

“Thank You” Official Video: https://youtu.be/TDAPvj6H6rY?si=rRGnLR2iNlZwfzdk 

“Jesus”: https://open.spotify.com/track/10MQ5gPAQXim9PY7UWetxz?si=whCa1nnHRSOEY2aNpMFlDg 

Connect with Tonia Omoh:

YouTube – Tonia Omoh: https://youtube.com/@toniaomoh?si=sh7G0w_8Z5garniZ 

Instagram (@toniaomohpage): https://www.instagram.com/toniaomohpage/ 

LinkedIn – Tonia Omoh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonia-omoh-0252a098

TikTok (@toniaomohpage): https://www.tiktok.com/@toniaomohpage 

Connect with Maurine McFarlane & Cloud Music Records LLC

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maurine-mcfarlane-2a5836161

Music Platforms to Cloud Records LLC Music:

I Am Strong (EP) by Capathia Jenkins – https://capathiajenkins.hearnow.com/i-am-strong-2 

Jesus Christ is Lord by Carmella Green  – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord

Jesus Christ is Lord (Instrumental) by Carmella Green  – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord-instrumental 

Jesus Christ is Lord (Radio Edit) by Carmella Green – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord-radio-edit  

There is A Time (EP) by Garrick V. Morgan & Valerie V. Gay – https://garrickvmorgan.hearnow.com

Fighting for My Destiny (Prayer Meditation Music) by Maurine McFarlane & Jennifer Thomas – https://maurinemcfarlane.hearnow.com/fighting-for-my-destiny-prayer-meditation-music-3 

Luchando por Mi Destino Música para la Oración de Meditación ) by Maurine McFarlane & Maria Antonella Moreno Maldonado – https://maurinemcfarlane.hearnow.com/fighting-for-my-destiny-prayer-meditation-music 

Darnel Alexander, a smooth-voiced R&B artist often compared to Luther Vandross, shares how his lifelong passion, timeless vocal style, and viral moment on TikTok are helping him bring soulful, classic music to a new generation.

In this episode of Cloud Record Music Podcast, host Maurine McFarlane sits down with soulful R&B singer Darnel Alexander—whose rich, emotive voice and timeless style have earned him comparisons to Luther Vandross. Darnel shares how growing up on classic voices like Nat King Cole and Peabo Bryson shaped his sound, and how a viral TikTok moment reignited his music journey. He opens up about writing from raw inspiration, collaborating with veteran producers, and his mission to bring back that smooth, heartfelt R&B of the ’90s. Darnel also talks about the stories behind his standout singles—Amazing, What If, and Crazy—and how becoming a father later in life gave his music new depth. His story is a powerful reminder to stay authentic, follow the spark, and never stop creating music that moves people.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

Connect with Darnel Alexander

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@darnelalexandermusic 

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@darnelalexandermusic 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darnelalexandermusic 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/darnel.alexander.153393/ 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5yzNsYl9k6ZiHmAo8gNE9c 

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/ph/artist/darnel-alexander/429946568 

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/music/player/artists/B00542FZM2/darnel-alexander 

Connect with Maurine McFarlane & Cloud Music Records LLC

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maurine-mcfarlane-2a5836161

Music Platforms to Cloud Records LLC Music:

I Am Strong (EP) by Capathia Jenkins – https://capathiajenkins.hearnow.com/i-am-strong-2 

Jesus Christ is Lord by Carmella Green  – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord

Jesus Christ is Lord (Instrumental) by Carmella Green  – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord-instrumental 

Jesus Christ is Lord (Radio Edit) by Carmella Green – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord-radio-edit  

There is A Time (EP) by Garrick V. Morgan & Valerie V. Gay – https://garrickvmorgan.hearnow.com

Fighting for My Destiny (Prayer Meditation Music) by Maurine McFarlane & Jennifer Thomas – https://maurinemcfarlane.hearnow.com/fighting-for-my-destiny-prayer-meditation-music-3 

Luchando por Mi Destino Música para la Oración de Meditación ) by Maurine McFarlane & Maria Antonella Moreno Maldonado – https://maurinemcfarlane.hearnow.com/fighting-for-my-destiny-prayer-meditation-music 

Gospel artist and producer Dereq McFarlane shares how he turned rejection into revelation, launching his own label and creating spirit-led music that stays true to his faith.

In this episode of Cloud Record Music Podcast, host Maurine McFarlane sits down with Minister Dereq McFarlane—a self-taught gospel artist, producer, and founder of McViz Records. Speaking from St. Mary, Jamaica, Dereq shares how he built his music career from the ground up, producing everything from his laptop and leaning on faith through every step. He talks about the inspiration behind songs like Yahweh, You Alone and It Is Well With My Soul, moments of divine creativity, and what it means to stay true to the message of the gospel—even in an industry that often pushes for compromise. His story is a powerful reminder of how faith and focus can turn a dream into a calling.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

Connect with Dereq McFarlane 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dereqmcfarlane 

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@dereqmcfarlane 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2R1jPFRWwYesonmvIYmmBS 

Connect with Maurine McFarlane & Cloud Music Records LLC

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maurine-mcfarlane-2a5836161

Music Platforms to Cloud Records LLC Music:

I Am Strong (EP) by Capathia Jenkins – https://capathiajenkins.hearnow.com/i-am-strong-2 

Jesus Christ is Lord by Carmella Green  – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord

Jesus Christ is Lord (Instrumental) by Carmella Green  – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord-instrumental 

Jesus Christ is Lord (Radio Edit) by Carmella Green – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord-radio-edit  

There is A Time (EP) by Garrick V. Morgan & Valerie V. Gay – https://garrickvmorgan.hearnow.com

Fighting for My Destiny (Prayer Meditation Music) by Maurine McFarlane & Jennifer Thomas – https://maurinemcfarlane.hearnow.com/fighting-for-my-destiny-prayer-meditation-music-3 

Luchando por Mi Destino Música para la Oración de Meditación ) by Maurine McFarlane & Maria Antonella Moreno Maldonado – https://maurinemcfarlane.hearnow.com/fighting-for-my-destiny-prayer-meditation-music 

Neskens Jr. Dorcelus, international speaker and youth mentor, reveals how he overcame trauma, bullying, and poverty to champion unity, empowerment, and healing on a global stage.

In this episode of Cloud Record Music Podcast, host Maurine McFarlane sits down with Neskens Jr. Dorcelus—an inspiring speaker, humanitarian, and founder of Dorcelus Empowerment. Born and raised in Haiti, Neskens shares how he turned deep pain—from losing his mother, surviving the 2010 earthquake, and years of bullying—into a purpose-driven life of service. He talks about the teacher whose words changed everything, and why it’s so important to clearly understand what bullying really is. Neskens opens up about his work with youth in shelters through the “Be the Hero of Your Story” project, his involvement with E-CAMP Mentoring, and his global advocacy efforts through the Reclaiming Unity Project and at the United Nations. His message is one of strength, unity, and hope—and a reminder that even the hardest seasons can shape us into someone who lifts others higher.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

Connect with Neskens Jr. Dorcelus

NESKENS SOCIAL MEDIA

Connect with Maurine McFarlane & Cloud Music Records LLC

Website: Cloud Record, LLC

Cloud Records LLC Social Media:

Music Platforms to Cloud Records LLC Music:

I Am Strong (EP) by Capathia Jenkins –  I Am Strong

Ava Covington, a self-taught composer and TikTok sensation, shares how growing up in a musical family, embracing vulnerability, and following her love for storytelling through sound led her to create emotionally powerful music for games, meditation, and more.

In this episode of Cloud Record Music Podcast, host Maurine McFarlane sits down with Ava Covington—a gifted, self-taught composer whose work first caught Maurine’s attention on TikTok. Ava shares how her love of music started with the cello, and how growing up in a musical household helped shape her creative path. She opens up about what it’s like to create from a place of vulnerability, the challenges of composing for games, and why string-heavy music feels like “soup for the soul.” Ava also talks about two of her most personal pieces—Tenacity of the Soul and Wrapped in Wisteria—and the deeper emotions behind them. Her story is a beautiful reminder of what happens when you follow your curiosity, trust your voice, and share your art with the world.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

Connect with Ava Covington

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@winterwisteria365

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/efflorescence365 

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/efflorescence365.bsky.social 

Connect with Maurine McFarlane & Cloud Music Records LLC

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maurine-mcfarlane-2a5836161

Music Platforms to Cloud Records LLC Music:

I Am Strong (EP) by Capathia Jenkins – https://capathiajenkins.hearnow.com/i-am-strong-2 

Jesus Christ is Lord by Carmella Green  – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord

Jesus Christ is Lord (Instrumental) by Carmella Green  – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord-instrumental 

Jesus Christ is Lord (Radio Edit) by Carmella Green – https://carmellagreen.hearnow.com/jesus-christ-is-lord-radio-edit  

There is A Time (EP) by Garrick V. Morgan & Valerie V. Gay – https://garrickvmorgan.hearnow.com

Fighting for My Destiny (Prayer Meditation Music) by Maurine McFarlane & Jennifer Thomas – https://maurinemcfarlane.hearnow.com/fighting-for-my-destiny-prayer-meditation-music-3 

Luchando por Mi Destino Música para la Oración de Meditación ) by Maurine McFarlane & Maria Antonella Moreno Maldonado – https://maurinemcfarlane.hearnow.com/fighting-for-my-destiny-prayer-meditation-music 

Welcome to the Cloud Records Music Podcast! 🎶 Hosted by Maurine McFarlane, this podcast is a celebration of music that uplifts, inspires, and transforms.

Join us every other week for an enriching musical experience where we dive into the songs that move us, the artists who create them, and the power of lyrics that resonate with our souls. Whether you’re an artist, a music enthusiast, or a critic who appreciates the depth of great music, this is the place for you.

Tune in to Cloud Records LLC Music on all major music platforms and catch the Cloud Records Music Podcast on Apple Podcasts or your preferred streaming service.

🎧 Follow us on Instagram (@cloudrecords2020), Fanbase (@cloudrecordsllc1), and YouTube (cloudrecordsllc5955). Visit www.Cloudrecordllc.com to learn more.

Let’s embark on this musical journey together! ✨🎙️

Cloud Records, LLC Website

Cloud Record, LLC

YouTube Channel:

Cloud Records, LLC - YouTube

Fanbase

https://www.fanbase.app/@cloudrecordsllc1

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/cloudrecordsllc2020/