The world of gospel music has been overlapping with dance music since disco arose largely inspired by the soul of the church with voices like Donna Summers and Sister Sledge. Now Dr. Jaymz and Costas Costa continue the tradition leaning into the funk side of dance music with a summer time spin on Edwin Hawkins Singers timeless gospel hit ‘Oh Happy Day.’
Funk guitar grooves, vibrant strings, punching drums, and soulful harmonies come together for a genre-blending nu-disco sound designed to spread joy and is already reaching the masses as the 2024 version of ‘Oh Happy Day’ hits the top 30 on iTunes Dance Charts.
Dr. Jaymz is growing a collection of religious centric dance music, finding the right tracks to remix such as Norman Greenbaun‘s ‘Spirit in the Sky,’ plus creating original productions such as a spiritual tech house track ‘On Fire’ and a bouncy electro single, ‘Set Free,’ both which are reaching way more than the 60,000+ people he has preached in front of.
Curious on getting to know a Preacher turned Producer, we took the opportunity to hear from Dr. Jaymz directly around his ‘Oh Happy Day’ remix, message and more.
What is a religious lesson that you would like to bring to the forefront of people’s minds that seems to be lost in our society lately?
That we must be anchored in objective truth, and that truth can only be found in the person of Jesus Christ. Without Him at the center, our lives will be shipwrecked.
The electronic music scene is quite decadent, what is your opinion of the rave culture and all the sinning that happens during these events?
That’s exactly why these people need to hear EDM songs that are clean and full of hope.
What has been one of your favorite electronic music experiences? Who are some people you have learned or worked with within the electronic music scene?
I’ve learned a lot listening to Calvin Harris, Tiësto and David Guetta, but honestly, there are many great EDM artists out there.
What is the bright side of electronic music to you and what has drawn you into producing this style of music? What is your background with music?
I’ve been playing piano for 30 years. I’m drawn to the music because it can make people feel happy.
What are a few of your favorite electronic music songs right now?
What lesson did you preach to 60,000 people?
That people are hungry to hear truth. People want transformation. As a minister of the gospel I must be ready. I can only preach the truth I live.
When we had this conversation it was around the feast of Peter and Paul, June 29. What is your toast to them?
Big salute to them as they wrote parts of the Bible.
You will have to tune into Dr. Jaymz’ music broadcast, the 12D Church Service, every Sunday at 10am from 374 Broadway, Somerville, Massachusetts and hope his releases find you on the dancefloor.
For now you can enjoy Dr. Jaymz and Costas Costa discorgraphy plus start exploring the world of soulful house for more gospel inspired dance music.
