Leah Toussaint

My name is Leah Toussaint, and I am a child of the ’80s. Both of my parents were singers in traveling groups during the ’60s and ’70s, so my musical foundation was laid early, starting with my father at the family piano, metronome ticking, while my six siblings and I sang choir arrangements inspired by the soulful gospel of The Winans, Commissioned, and the mass choirs of that era. I’ve had the privilege of singing with and leading choirs, as well as traveling with a few aspirational groups. But the deepest joy of those experiences wasn’t at the mic, it was in the conversations between sessions. I would inevitably end up in deep discussions with whoever would listen: audio engineers, producers, fellow artists, no one was safe. I was always drawn to conversations about scripture, truth and justice, hope and sorrow, beauty and virtue, and that love has deeply shaped my lyrical contributions. I remember hearing Is My Living in Vain by The Clark Sisters and Precious Lord, Take My Hand by Mahalia Jackson for the first time. I wept, even as a child. The longing, the sorrow, and the hope were tangible. I believe emotional congruence in song, especially when theological is essential. Do you believe what you’re singing? And how do you express that belief musically? This project gave me the opportunity to learn from some of the most humble, gracious, and skilled artists, songwriters, teachers, and theologians I’ve ever encountered. There’s little more marvelous than witnessing someone operate in their full God-given gifting, purpose, and passion. I pray the wonder of God’s benevolent character comes through this project as seamlessly and beautifully as it felt in the room. As a bonus, I got to collaborate with brothers and sisters of all ages from my local church and surrounding ministries here in Nashville. Living out intentional multi-generational worship together gave me an even deeper appreciation for it in all its forms.