Like many Christians, Crystal Reid had several challenges before finding solace in God. Aware that many of her peers have similar experience, she wrote ‘The Reality Is’, her latest song.

Born in St Catherine, Reid lives in Edmonton, Canada where her career as a recording artiste began. Most of her songs, including ‘The Reality Is’, are driven by contemporary reggae beats.

She believes her testimony is one to be shared.

“I can truly say that if it had not been for the Lord who was on my side, I don’t know where I would be. My faith grew over the years as I was not as resilient at the beginning of this journey. I was an abused victim and suffered a lot of beatings and chastisement growing up, and this has caused me to attempt suicide a few times,” she said. “I didn’t understand what my purpose in life was and why I was suffering the way I did. The devil told me time and time again that it would make everyone around me extremely happy if I was dead. But when I saw how God always made a way out for me in all these tests, I can truly say it made me more resilient in my faith.”

Reid migrated to Canada in 2013. Although she listened to traditional gospel acts like Shirley Caesar, her favourite artistes were those who helped shape the modern gospel movement in the United States and Jamaica, such as Donny McClurkin, Mary Mary, Jermaine Edwards and DJ Nicholas.

In Canada, she was encouraged to record songs by Cameron Browne, a music producer Reid met after a concert at her church. Since then, she has released one album, ‘Thank You Lord’, and a number of singles including ‘Great is Our God’ and ‘Power’ with DJ Nicholas.

Following years of trials, Reid discovered much-needed confidence for which she credits her faith.

“God has allowed me to go through these processes to help others in a similar situation. And with all confidence, I can encourage others not to give up, but go through their storms as it will build their faith in God,” she said.