On April 18th, 2015 I went to hear one of my favorite singers, Jazmine Sullivan, only to find that there was someone standing behind her who quickly became my favorite voice to hear. Who knew that only a couple of years later, she’d become much more than my favorite voice to listen to. I first spoke to Ayana, who I now affectionately call “YaYa”, on Instagram after we attended the same funeral. Ayana sang for the service and I got chills. I sent her a message letting her know that I really appreciated how she allowed God to move through her and touch each of us in attendance. From that point, we’d periodically correspond and she even began to offer major encouragement in my own musical journey. Two years later, we met at another event and I was greeted with, “Hey my cyber bro!!!” Lol. Needless to say, the “cyber bro” moniker was dropped once I informed her that I was single, available and very interested in learning more about her. Of course, I did so in the subtlest of ways. Ayana told me that if I was to shoot my shot, I probably wouldn’t miss. I assured her that I shot much more like Kobe from the line than Shaq. 1 month later, we went on our first date. We met at Barnes and Noble for what was supposed to be a quick meet up. That 6pm meet up stretched from Barnes and Noble to walking through Times Square, to dinner at Virgil’s, to the lounge at the W Hotel, driving her home, and talking some more. When we parted ways, the sun was rising in my rear view mirror. That was the best first date I’ve ever been on. It would also be my last first date. I think it’s safe to say, “KOBE!” God showed me the face of my bride in a vision on the anniversary of my father’s passing and it brought me to tears. I saw Ayana’s face. I saw where we’d wed. I felt God’s presence. Everything I saw in my vision, God has been bringing into my reality. I can’t say it was love at first sight, but I can say I’ve loved this woman since our first date and I will love her forever more.

I waited 25 years for God’s definition of love to find me. Who knew it would be on Instagram lol. I’d like to say our love story started with a DM about a song I sang at a funeral we both attended. What actually began was a divine connection. Our love for God and singing was the common ground in which the seed of our friendship was planted. From thought-provoking conversation to exchanging sermons, devotionals, and funny memes, a safe space of support, encouragement and laughter, was what blossomed. I got a glimpse into André’s heart, and I liked what it showed me. One day, I decided to look at his profile. I had become so comfortable talking to someone I had never seen. I quickly discovered he was as beautiful as the heart I was getting to know. Lawdhammercy!!! However, I had no expectation beyond the friend zone. This was someone I simply admired and wanted to remain connected to. After two years, of friendship, we finally met in person at an event hosted by a mutual friend. In that moment, I knew André was the blueprint. I literally asked God “why won’t You give me someone like him?” I guess God said “Say less” lol. On September 21, 2019, André and I went on our first date. That night, my heart’s questions were answered. On October 21, 2022 I am marrying my best friend. André, my love… you are worth the years I waited for you. Needless to say, Instagram is now my favorite app. :-)