Can you please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your musical journey and background?
Hello, I’m Ellen Hayes, and I have been passionate about music since the age of 12. I found my love for songwriting in my late twenties and have since honed my skills as a musician, choir director and gospel recording artist. After performing with a group for nearly twenty years, I embarked on my first solo project in 2012, leading to subsequent collaborations in 2015. Following a brief hiatus, my third release came in 2022, and now, I’m excited to announce the upcoming fourth release, « Another Chance, » featuring the Word of Truth Mass Choir.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your sound and style?
My oldest brother served as my initial musical influence, shaping my style and sound through his leadership of the group we sang with. Before he began writing our songs, we performed music by notable artists such as the late Walter and Edwin Hawkins, Vanessa Bell, Aretha Franklin, and others. Throughout the first twenty years of my musical career, I drew inspiration from and admired the music of groups like Commissioned, the Winans, and Fred Hammond, all of whom played a significant role in shaping my musical identity.
Can you share a specific artist or album that has had a significant impact on your music?
Yolanda Adams, The Winans, True Inspiration, CeCe Winans, Kurt Carr
What’s your creative process like when you’re composing or writing a new song?
The creative process varies for me. Sometimes I seek a quiet room to find my zone, while at other times, I thrive amid total chaos and noise, able to block it out and focus on writing. Time seems to fade away when inspiration strikes, and there have been occasions when I couldn’t stop writing until a song was complete. I approach songwriting in diverse ways, either starting with lyrics and finding melodies to match, or sitting at the keyboard to play chords and develop from there. Occasionally, a tune comes to me in my head, or I’m awakened from sleep with a new song, even dreaming about it. Despite leading a busy life, I’ve adapted to writing in any situation and have learned to be flexible and creative in my process over the years.
Among all the songs you’ve created, do you have a personal favorite? If so, what makes it special to you?
“The Holy City” on the “We Owe it all to You” Album
Can you share the story or inspiration behind that particular song?
The song came to me in a series of recurring dreams, without any melody or lyrics. However, my late father, who was also my pastor at that time, revealed to me that it was a scripture-based dream found in Revelation 21:1-4, and Revelation 22:1,5. Using these verses from the Bible, I composed a song that has stayed with me ever since.
Let’s talk about your latest song. What’s the title, and what’s the story or message behind it?
The inspiration for « Another Chance » feat. The Word of Truth Mass Choir stemmed from a powerful sermon at church. While I’m often inspired by sermons, this particular idea struck me during the sermon itself. I felt compelled to write a song that would not only uplift me and the minister who shared his testimony, but also resonate with people worldwide. We all need encouragement, and the message of God’s forgiveness and enduring love, despite our shortcomings, is something that speaks to all of us.
Share a memorable or unique experience from one of your live performances.
. I’ll always remember stepping into the boxing ring at The Joe Louis Arena to sing the National Anthem before my nephew’s major fight. By the way, he emerged victorious in that bout.
Beyond music, do you have any hobbies or interests that you’re passionate about? How do they influence your music?
I have a passion for baking, reading, and traveling. If given the chance to spend a summer in a beach house or oceanfront home, the inspiring views could lead to limitless writing possibilities. Different scenery offers new perspectives that can spark creativity. Years ago, I became an ambassador for « The Power to End Stroke » through the American Heart Association. I began organizing community events with main focus on educating people about the prevention of strokes, healthy eating, high blood pressure and diabetes management, epilepsy, and more. Attendees also had the opportunity to receive free blood pressure checks. This was accomplished while relishing musical entertainment and a nutritious dinner, medically trained guest speakers who brought a vast array of educational materials to takeaway. While the pandemic halted these events, I plan to restart and continue them in the near future.
Is there a dream collaboration you’d like to pursue in the future?
I’m eager to collaborate with John P. Kee, Tamela Mann, and Fred Hammond. Additionally, it would be a dream to have Maverick City sing one or two of my songs, like « O King » or « Just Like You Lord. »
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are just starting their journey in the music industry?
Stay True to Your Message: As a gospel music artist or songwriter, it’s important to stay true to your faith and the message you want to share with your audience. Let your music reflect the values and beliefs that should be important to you. Write from your heart and experiences. Study the Bible to bring a more meaningful impact to your songs. Never stop honing your craft, seek feedback and growth from trusted sources, learn and grow
from it. Don’t be afraid of your authenticity. It’s what makes your sound unique. Network with other gospel artists, musicians and songwriters. You never know which door will be opened through connections.
Can you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or new music you have in the works? What can your fans and listeners look forward to from you in the near future?
I have several songs in the works, although they’re not quite finished yet—still a work in progress, lol. These recorded songs are enough to fill the next album. One song, in particular, has been on my mind a lot. It’s an upbeat, jazzy number with a theme centered around being prepared for the second coming of Christ. I have many more songs in the pipeline, and I believe you’ll hear something new and exciting before the year is over.