Tre' Thomas is a rising artist that D.C. and the rest of the country should have on their playlist. Thomas has been around a while, methodically etching out his own place in the music world. Speaking about his style, Thomas says, 'I didn’t want anything to be cliché because I’m not a cliché’. When asked if he is a gospel artist or an inspirational one he says, ‘more inspirational, because the content is more encouraging’. The Greek translation for gospel is 'good news’, so it appears Tre’ Thomas is hitting the mark in both arenas. His song ‘My First Love’ stirringly expresses God’s preeminent position in Thomas’ life.
Music is only part of this talented artist’s portfolio. Thomas recently partnered with the Black Leadership Commission on AIDS of Washington to increase awareness of HIV/AIDS in D.C., Maryland and Virginia. Why did he choose to get involved? He believes in the cause, Thomas says, ‘It’s such an important issue. It’s almost a taboo, especially in the church. Even though it’s a major issue, it’s not openly discussed.’ Talented, committed to service and ready to bring innovation and inspiration to others, Thomas talks about his musical career, his appearance on Bobby Jones and what fans can expect from him in the future.
GME: You’re from New Orleans, Louisiana. You went to Howard University and sang in the gospel choir. What made you decide to live in DC?
TT: I have a great support system here. I don’t like the cold (laughs) but D.C. grows on you. It’s not too fast, not too slow. There’s definitely a very strong support system and I consider DC home now.
GME: You titled your debut album a Natural Contrast. Why that title?
TT: I didn’t want anything to be cliché, because I’m not a cliché. I wanted the album to reflect me. I’m not like any other. I want to reach those outside the church. I want to make my own stamp.
GME: Are there any songs on that album that you consider your favorites? Did you do most of the writing on the album?
TT: I wrote all of the songs, except three of them. Right now, I would have to say ‘My First Love’. The song started as an interlude. It was originally meant to be an intro. But then I began to get pressure to make it into a full song. On the last day, I went in knowing that I still didn’t have anything. Then the rest just came to me, as fluid as it could come.
GME: You host a show on Bonnerfide Radio called Love Ludes. Tell us about that.
TT: Actually that’s my baby. I came up with the idea. I feel I am called to bring back the idea of loving people and loving God. I know some people who are spiritual but don’t go to church. We’ve gotten to the point where we judge. My whole purpose is to use different ways to reach others. Love Ludes is very successful and I use a different take on the show.
GME: You recently made your debut on Bobby Jones Gospel. What was that experience like, what response did you get from fans?
TT: That was a once in a lifetime experience. There are just not enough words to describe it. My godfather Richard Smallwood introduced me. It was an emotional time, having your dad introduce you to the world. Bobby Jones Gospel is a platform for artists. There are those who’ve been working for years who have not been on the show and I made it. I was grateful for the opportunity, grateful for the platform. The performance was great and I got a lot of positive responses. Bobby Jones even said he didn’t expect that (the performance) once it was over. It shows that people are open to different styles.
GME: You said the maestro, Richard Smallwood (‘Trust Me’) is your godfather. I’m sure he has influenced you. Who are your other musical influences?
TT: Yes, definitely Richard. I’d also say Donald Lawrence, the old Whitney Houston, Brandy, Tweet, Teddy Riley, Baby Face, Donny Hathaway, and Ella Fitzgerald. I take something from each of them. I listen to their tones and I create my own style.
GME: As an under-30 artist what is your vision of gospel in years to come? How can the word of God best be communicated in song with the younger generation?
TT: God will always speak the Word that needs to be spoken to connect. As artists, we try to fit a mold or formula that might not connect. Be comfortable with yourself and you can connect.
GME: What’s next on the horizon for you? Are you working on any new music?
TT: I am working on my second album and it will hopefully be out soon. I think it will show my growth, how I’ve developed. I’m trying to stay focused, making sure that I can inspire others. It’s not about just being an artist or money. I want to inspire.
GME: Do you have any upcoming appearances that you would like your fans to know about?
TT: Yes, I will be appearing at Ben's Next Door on Tuesday May 31st at 9:30 p.m. It’s an independent artist showcase and it is a free event.
GME: Where can fans get your music?
TT: My music is available on iTunes, Amazon.com, CDBaby, Rhapsody and they can go to www.trethomas.com
GME: Any last words you would like to share with the readers?
TT: No matter what comes, stay focused on goals. Stay true to who they are.
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