Episode 26 of Journeys In Melody features a powerful and joy-filled conversation with Colombian-born worship leader and gospel artist María Del Mar Calderón García, also known as MAR. In this episode, we trace her journey from growing up in Colombia to building a new life and ministry in New Jersey, and how God used that transition to deepen both her faith and her calling through music.

We talk about her early encounters with gospel music, the moment when songs moved from being “art” to becoming ministry, and how her relationship with God has evolved through different seasons of change and challenge. MAR also opens up about navigating the music scene as a Latina gospel artist in the U.S., the cultural tensions she’s faced, and how she has learned to turn obstacles into strength while bridging Latin rhythms with North American gospel sounds in her work.

Together, we explore the heart behind her most personal songs, how she balances creative excellence with spiritual authenticity, and what she hopes listeners feel, think, and pray after hearing her music. She shares vulnerable stories of wanting to give up, the ways God met her in those low moments, and the message she believes she is called to carry to this generation about identity, hope, and surrender.

We also dig into representation and voice: how Latin gospel is expanding the space traditionally shaped by African-American gospel, why visibility for Latina women in Christian music matters, and the unique ways language, rhythm, and spirituality from her heritage show up in her songwriting and worship leading. Finally, MAR reflects on the struggles that changed her as both artist and believer, testimonies of lives touched through her ministry, and the practical habits that keep her grounded, guarded, and rooted in Jesus in a demanding industry.

Damaris Elaine is a Christian singer, songwriter, musician, and author who shares original music to reach a global audience of both believers and seekers. With a unique blend of English and Spanish contemporary songs, she explores themes that resonate with people from every walk of life.
This episode is inspirational, uplifting, and full of meaningful conversation. Tune in to Episode 25, now streaming on YouTube and on all major podcast platforms.
#Podcast #Gospel #GospelMusic #Music #Story #JourneysInMelody

New Year. New Episode. new.bach.We’re kicking off the year with South Korean contemporary classical artist Sharon Park (박새론) — a singer, composer, arranger, and music educator redefining what modern classical sound can be. Known on Instagram as @new.bach, Sharon bridges tradition and innovation through her compositions, drawing inspiration from the masters while shaping a voice uniquely her own. In this episode, we explore her creative process, her cross-cultural influences, and how she’s bringing fresh meaning to the concert stage and classroom alike. She also shares her future plans, projects and aspirations.Follow and listen wherever you get your podcasts.#newbach #SharonPark #ContemporaryClassical #ModernClassicalMusic #ComposerLife #MusicEducator #Korea #KMusic #KoreanArtist #CreativeJourney #PodcastConversation #MusicAndInspiration

Ruthie Larbi is a Christian Pop/R&B singer-songwriter born and raised in Ontario, Canada. Ruthie has always been passionate about music, and she combines this passion with her faith in order to create music that is uplifting, reflective, and inspirational.Ruthie always has at the forefront of her mind the following quote:"It's only one life, it will soon pass; only what's done for Christ will last".In this episode, Ruthie talks about her musical journey, writing, community, life and her aspirations for the future.

Cynthia Lok is a Canadian singer-songwriter and worship leader from North Vancouver, B.C. She started writing music because of a prophetic word that she received from her pastor in 2004. After fighting through her own insecurities and receiving several more prophetic words on leading worship and writing songs for Jesus, Cynthia took a step of faith and wrote her first song in 2006. Since then, the Holy Spirit has been leading Cynthia, establishing divine connections, bringing encouragement and confirmation at the right time and inspiring Cynthia with words and melodies.

From a prophetic word to a powerful music ministry — Canadian singer-songwriter and worship leader Cynthia Lok shares her inspiring journey of faith, obedience, and creativity.

🌿In this heartfelt conversation, Cynthia opens up about overcoming insecurity, writing her first song through divine inspiration, and how the Holy Spirit continues to guide her in leading others to encounter Jesus.

✨🎵 Hear the story behind her single “The Breaker” — a prophetic anthem of hope, healing, and freedom for anyone facing life’s battles.

Tune in now for an episode filled with encouragement, purpose, and the reminder that God’s timing is always perfect.

🙌🎧 Available on Journeys In Melody Podcast — streaming everywhere you listen

to podcasts.#JourneysInMelodyPodcast #ChristianMusic #WorshipLeader #FaithJourney #HolySpiritLed #InspirationDaily #FreedomInChrist #SingerSongwriter #JesusMusic #FaithOverFear #PodcastInterview #ChristianMusic #WorshipMusic #CanadianArtist #FaithAndMusic#GospelMusic #MusicMinistry #ChristianCreatives #JesusMusic #FaithJourney #FreedomInChrist #HealingAndDeliverance#Faith #SpiritualBreakthrough

In a sea of voices, Cario Young stands out as a beacon of authenticity and unstoppable hope. From his early days leading school and church choirs in Hector’s River to writing his very first song at age ten, his journey has always been fueled by a deep spiritual purpose and the vibrant pulse of Jamaican heritage.Cario’s music isn’t just about uplifting melodies—it’s about living a message. His passion echoes in every track, whether it’s the electrifying energy of “Increase My Faith” or the dynamic collaborations on hits like “Undefeated” and “Steady.” His resonant mantra, “Don’t take JESUS out of the focus,” underscores an unyielding commitment to blending modern gospel innovation with time-honored values, creating a sound that is as transformative as it is unforgettable.His latest release powerfully captures the tension between following habitual cycles and the relentless desire for transformative change. "Expectations" invite listeners to break free and embrace renewal. This innovative approach, blending elements of R&B, reggae, and modern gospel, inspires through every lyric.Beyond the stage, Cario’s life is a testament to service and dedication. A proud graduate of the University of the West Indies with a BSc. Honors in Human Resource Management, Cario embodies the balance between artistic brilliance and real-world impact. Every beat, every word is crafted to restore faith, ignite hope, and invite audiences on a transformative musical journey.With his dynamic official videos, engaging collaborations, and a style that effortlessly marries the traditional with the contemporary, Cario Young isn’t just redefining Jamaican Gospel music —he’s inspiring a movement. His life and lyrics serve as a call to live boldly, stay anchored in faith, and always embrace the power of positive change.#Music #GospelMusic #Podcast #JourneysInMelody #CarioYoung #Reggae #Jamaica #Canada #International #Inspirational #SpreadLove #Hope #Journeys #Story

In this episode, I have a conversation with Rachell Miñan, a talented Panamanian singer and recording artist whose soulful voice connects cultures and generations. From her early beginnings in Panama to her musical journey in the United States, Rachel shares how her time abroad influenced her artistry, broadened her perspective, and refined her sound.She opens up about the influence of her family, the roots that ground her, and the support system that fuels her creative fire, reflecting on the deeply personal stories of listeners whose lives have been touched by her music. Whether performing on stage, recording in the studio, or connecting with fans, Rachell brings a blend of passion, culture, authenticity, social impact and heart to everything she does.Tune in for an inspiring conversation about music, identity, and the power of a song to cross oceans and speak to the soul.#RachellMiñan #CantantePanameña #PanamanianArtist #SingerSongwriter #ArtistaLatina #LatinMusic #MúsicaLatina #RecordingArtist #IndieArtist #SoulfulVoice #MiñanMusic #PanamáParaElMundo #PanamaToTheWorld #RaícesCulturales #CulturalRoots #InspiraciónFamiliar #FamilyInspiration #MúsicaQueSana #MusicThatHeals #PodcastInterview #MusicPodcast #ArtistSpotlight #BehindTheMusic #VoicesOfMusic #CreativeConversations #MusicStories

In this powerful and heart-stirring episode of Journeys In Melody, I had a chat with Canadian singer, songwriter, actor, and creative powerhouse Marika Siewert. Known for her soulful voice, chart-topping singles, and inspiring faith-filled artistry, Marika opens up about her musical journey, the power of resilience, and the faith that fuels her purpose.

From her early days in England to her career highlights in Canada and beyond — including collaborations with major artists, securing her music in TV and film, and navigating the music industry as a woman of colour — Marika shares her insights on staying grounded, inspired, and authentic.

Expect laughter, truth, and authenticity as we explore:
- Her passion for storytelling through music
- How family and faith shape her sound
- The challenges and victories behind the scenes
- Her latest creative projects and what’s next

If you're chasing your purpose, overcoming obstacles, or just love great music and real conversations — this episode is for you! Tune in now and be inspired by Marika’s incredible story.

#MarikaSiewert #JourneysInMelody #GospelMusic #FaithAndCreativity #WomenInMusic #CanadianArtists #BehindTheMusic #Inspiration #RealTalk #PodcastInterview #Film #Producer #Director #Podcast

Get ready to dive into an inspiring conversation in this episode of Journeys In Melody as I chat with two of the minds behind the Canadian Selah Music Awards: President and Founder, Dr. Elio Alcindor and PR Powerhouse, Sharon Rurak.
Elio Alcindor is a Haitian–Canadian singer, composer, and medical doctor, Elio mixes faith and artistry into a powerful platform. Not only did he launch the Canadian Selah Music Awards, but his journey has taken him through acclaimed albums, international recognition, and a ministry of healing through music across multiple languages.
Sharon Rurak is the CEO of Vision PR Solutions, Sharon is a core board and voting member of the CSMA. Her advocacy and PR savvy have been instrumental in promoting the awards and supporting artists.
If you care about faith-based artistry, building platforms for underrepresented voices, or just love good music rooted in purpose, this chat is a masterclass in passion-driven leadership and community building.
Join us for a heartfelt, behind-the-scenes look at how two leaders are turning vision into reality—shaping the future of Christian and gospel music in Canada.
Tune In & Subscribe: Don’t miss this episode! Subscribe to Journeys In Melody for more deep-dive interviews with creators who are changing the world through music.
#GospelMusicCanada #ChristianMusic #FaithInMusic #GospelArtists #KingdomSound #WorshipThroughMusic #JourneysInMelody #PodcastInterview #MusicPodcast #InspiringConversations #BehindTheMusic #FaithAndArt #LeadershipInMusic #CanadianGospel #SupportCanadianArtists #ChristianCreators #CelebratingExcellence

My guests are Brenda and Philip Janz. A dynamic musical duo from British Columbia, Canada.

Originally from Nova Scotia, Brenda has happily and permanently settled in BC as of 1984. She has been singing her whole life and writing music for over 30 years. She has previously released two albums and is currently very excited about her third release in early 2025, entitled, “Way of life.” Her music has been described as rootsy/folk with honest heartfelt lyrics.

She makes her home in Mission, BC with her husband Philip who is a music producer and arranger, four kids, and one adorable border collie.