Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. James L. Patterson.
Hi Dr. James L., can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m Dr. James L. Patterson, an independent gospel artist, educator, and someone who’s just passionate about using the gift God gave me to uplift others through music and service. I’m originally from Orangeburg, South Carolina, and my journey in gospel music has been full of purpose, growth, and some truly amazing experiences.
Everything really got started for me back in 2014 when I released my first single, “Better Is On The Way.” That song opened a lot of doors, and since then I’ve been blessed to keep going strong with singles like “Move” in 2019 and “Serve God Til’ I Die” in 2021. Each one came from a real place in my life and ministry. My newest single, “I Believe God,” came out on March 14, 2025, and it brings a fresh sound that blends gospel, soul, and even a little rock. It’s got that same uplifting feel as songs like “Chasing After You” by Vashawn Mitchell and “Freedom” by Eddie James. I wrote the song myself and worked with Jamaine Eric Holmes of Lightning Music Eclipse to bring it to life. Right now, it’s on all digital streaming platforms and being pushed to gospel radio.
While I love what I do as a recording artist, I’m also deeply committed to teaching. I currently serve as the band director at Kingstree High School in Kingstree, South Carolina. Pouring into young musicians, guiding them, and helping them find their voice is one of the most fulfilling parts of my journey. I’ve even been recognized for my work in music education with nominations for the Grammy Music Educator Award in both 2021 and 2023. Out of almost 2,000 nominations, I made it to the quarterfinal round each time, and that meant the world to me.
Every December, I go on a European gospel tour, traveling through Spain, Italy, and Croatia to minister in music. One of the biggest honors of my life was getting to sing for Pope Francis at his Christmas event. Moments like that remind me how far God has brought me. I also help organize one of South Carolina’s biggest outdoor gospel events, Project LOVE Gospel Fest, where we bring the community together to worship and celebrate through music.
I wear a few different hats. I also run a promotions business called JLP Social Media Promotions where I’ve worked with national recording artists like Jekalyn Carr and Earnest Pugh on their online campaigns. Helping artists grow their reach while staying true to their calling is something I really enjoy.
As far as education, I graduated from South Carolina State University with a degree in Music Education. I earned my Doctorate in Sacred Music in 2022, and I’m currently working on my Master’s in Educational Leadership with Principal Certification at Eastern Washington University. I’ve also had the opportunity to appear on networks like BET, TV One, TCT, Bounce, CW, ABC, and FOX. Most recently, I was a quarterfinalist for America’s Favorite Teacher, which was a huge honor.
Through it all, I stay grounded. Everything I’ve done and everything that’s ahead of me is because of God’s grace. Whether I’m in a classroom, in a studio, or on a stage somewhere overseas, I try to walk in purpose and lead with heart. I’m just grateful to be able to do what I love and use my voice to make a difference.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. There have been many struggles along the way, both in life and in my singing career. One of the biggest battles I’ve had to face is with my own self-esteem. For a long time, I didn’t feel like my voice was good enough. I knew it was different from what people were used to hearing, and instead of embracing that difference, I used to question whether there was even space for my sound in the world. It’s hard when you feel like an outsider or like you’re not part of the “clique,” especially in an industry that can sometimes feel more about who you know than what you bring to the table.
On top of the mental and emotional struggles, I’ve had my share of health challenges. I’ve dealt with diabetes and high blood pressure, and trying to balance managing my health with the demands of performing, working full-time, and supporting family hasn’t been easy. But I’ve kept going, even on the days when I felt exhausted or overwhelmed.
One of the hardest seasons of my life was during the pandemic. My father passed away in December of 2020 from complications related to diabetes. Before he passed, he developed dementia and Alzheimer’s, and it was heartbreaking to watch him fade in that way. During that time, I moved back in with my mom so I could help care for him. We went through the hospice journey together, and it was emotionally draining. Still, I knew I had to be there for them both.
While all of that was happening, I was working two jobs. Teaching and directing the band during the day and then working at JC Penney at night to help pay for radio promotions and travel for my singing career. At the same time, I was still trying to pour into my music career, still showing up to sing, to write, to minister, even when I felt like I had nothing left to give. I was living in a constant state of doing whatever needed to be done, but deep down I was tired. Really tired. There were moments when I wanted to give up, moments when I wondered if all the sacrifices were even worth it.
But even in those low places, I’ve held onto purpose. I’ve leaned into my faith, and I’ve kept going for the people I love and the young people who look up to me. My voice, different as it may be is mine. And I’ve learned to embrace that. I’ve come to understand that the very things I thought made me “not enough” are the things that make me unique, that make me powerful, and that allow me to connect with others in a real way.
The journey hasn’t been easy, but it has made me stronger. Every challenge has helped shape the artist, the teacher, and the person I am today.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m an international gospel recording artist, educator, and someone who genuinely believes in the power of music to uplift, heal, and inspire. My journey has been a blend of hard work, faith, and divine favor, and every opportunity along the way has been a stepping stone toward something greater.
One of the highlights of my career has been teaching and mentoring young talent, including Joshua Rogers, during my time as the high school music and chorus teacher at C.E. Murray High School. Watching Joshua grow into his gift and then go on to win BET’s Sunday Best as the first male and youngest winner is something I’ll always be proud of. Knowing I had a hand in helping shape his early musical journey means more than words can say.
On the performance side, I’ve been honored to minister through song across the globe. In 2019, I had the incredible privilege of singing for Pope Francis at the Concerto di Natale in Vatican City. I’ve also had the opportunity to sing alongside Lionel Richie, which was an unforgettable moment. Throughout my career, I’ve shared stages with gospel legends like John P. Kee, Paul Porter, Kelontae Gavin, Charles Jenkins, Joshua Rogers, Alexis Spight, Ruth La’Ontra, James Fortune, Anthony Brown, and Mary Mary. I’ve also had the chance to meet and connect with icons like Kirk Franklin, Anita Wilson, Tye Tribbett, Marvin Sapp, Donnie McClurkin, Jonathan Nelson, Jason Nelson, DeWayne Woods, and Dottie Peoples.
A very special moment for me was appearing on Dr. Dorinda Clark-Cole’s television show, The Dorinda Show. Being interviewed and performing on a platform hosted by one of The Clark Sisters, a group that has influenced my sound and my spirit for years, was surreal and humbling. That kind of recognition reminded me that my music is being heard and received in places I once only dreamed about.
My recording career took off after I won a singing competition in 2014 hosted by Black Expo South and WJNI 106.3 FM in Charleston, South Carolina. That win opened the door for me to perform as the opening act for Ricky Dillard and led to studio time where I recorded my very first single, “Better Is On the Way,” produced by Leroy Harper of Hypegospel Entertainment. That moment really set everything in motion.
Since then, I’ve released music that has charted on the Billboard Gospel Airplay Charts, with “Move” reaching number 15, and “Serve God Til’ I Die” landing at number 20. Most recently, my new single, which has only been out for a few weeks, is already in the Top 200 on Mediabase and Billboard Gospel Airplay and is currently number 1 on the Gospel Stations Chart. Seeing that kind of response is a blessing, especially knowing the journey it’s taken to get here.
What sets me apart is that I’ve never tried to sound like anyone else. I sing from a place of real-life experience. My voice may not be typical, but it’s mine, and it carries every lesson, every prayer, every mountain and valley I’ve been through. Whether I’m teaching in a classroom, directing a band, or on stage pouring out in song, I lead with heart and authenticity.
At the end of the day, the biggest reward isn’t the charts or the applause. It’s the people who tell me that a song helped them heal or reminded them to keep going. That’s why I do what I do, and I’m beyond grateful for every moment along the way.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
When it comes to finding a mentor or networking in this industry, one of the biggest things I’ve learned is that relationships matter. You can be talented, you can have the drive, but without real, genuine connections, it’s hard to grow and move forward. For me, building relationships has been just as important as perfecting my craft.
My advice is to be intentional and authentic. Don’t go into every room trying to get something. Instead, go in looking to connect, to learn, and to support others too. Some of the most meaningful opportunities I’ve had came from conversations that didn’t start out being about business. Just being kind, showing up consistently, and staying true to who I am has helped open more doors than any formal pitch ever could.
When it comes to mentors, sometimes the best ones aren’t the people with the biggest names. Sometimes they’re the ones who’ve walked the road you’re on and are just a little further ahead. Look for people who inspire you, not just musically but personally. Pay attention to how they carry themselves, how they treat others, and how they handle both success and setbacks. That will teach you just as much as what they can do on stage.
Also, don’t be afraid to reach out. Sometimes all it takes is a message, a respectful email, or just introducing yourself after an event. Be humble but confident. Show people that you’re serious about your growth. And when someone does invest time in you, honor that. Listen, take notes, ask questions, and show them you appreciate their guidance.
One last thing. Do not underestimate the power of consistency. Keep showing up. Keep putting your heart into what you do. People notice that. The right ones will be drawn to it. And when those connections come, they’ll feel real and lasting, not forced.
That’s what’s worked for me, and I’m still learning as I go. Relationships are everything in this journey, so take care of them, and they’ll take care of you too.
Pricing:
- I Believe God – Single – .99 Cents
- I Believe God – Music Video – $1.49
Contact Info:
- Website: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/jameslpatterson2/i-believe-god
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjustjames/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.l.pattersonii
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-l-patterson-a0ab67113/
- Twitter: https://x.com/iamjustjamestv
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@iamjustjamestv
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/1goodknight/james-l-patterson-i-believe
