When you're an independent artist with a weighty calling on your life, there's an understandable temptation to push your career along--to be a mover and a shaker and to make massive sacrifices to see your big God-dreams come to pass. 

Or when that artist is a mom, a wife and a worship leader, the tendency could be to make music an endearing hobby--something to do when all the chores are done. 

Pop-rock singer-songwriter Adelaide finds herself in the radical middle, pursuing her passion with all her heart while working hard to keep the main things the main things--being ready in all seasons (and roles) to minister. 

It's no accident that people are getting to know this Missourian through her debut project--appropriately titled, The Bigger Picture. Adelaide shared with NRT about her life, loves and ministry--as well as what spurs her on to rock.

Tell us about you! You're married; what's your home life like?

Well, I am very happily married to my wonderful husband, Les, for almost 13 years now. We have four pretty cool kids ages 11, 10, 7 and 5. As you can imagine, they are my day job! I am a stay-at-home, homeschooling mom and I absolutely love it.

Your influences include some heavy hitting women in Christian pop and rock--Plumb, Addison Road, Evanescence, Britt Nicole. What is it about those artists that has inspired you? 

I love all of these artists both in talent and lyrically. They're strong and they project that so undeniably in their music. I also love how each one is so different in their sound yet they do a terrific job of leveling with you and just being relatable. A great artist not only inspires you but challenges you as well. I think these artists do a great job of that.

You said in your bio that music helped you in the midst of a rough childhood. How does it continue to serve you? 

I think music is that one thing everyone has in common, regardless of style. Ask anyone their favorite song and they'll have one. Music takes you to a place, a memory, a feeling. It's a beautiful thing! For me, writing is worship. It's my "journal." I put my whole heart into it and it soothes me.
 
At what point did your distinct vocal sound come of age? Did you take voice lessons? At what point did you know you could sing? 

When I was about 12, I realized there was more to my passion than I thought. I enjoyed singing from a very young age but didn't necessarily think I was good at it. Over the years, I grew more intimate in my writing and began taking it seriously. My dad really encouraged me to try making a career out of singing, but the thought was intimidating. It wasn't until 3 years ago that God began bringing me out of my comfort zone and really molding my vocal talent and writing. When God gives you lyrics with such a call to action, He also gives a confidence to be His vessel and deliver that message. It has definitely evolved! And I have never had vocal lessons.

"Unforsaken" is the single you've recently released, originally from your debut album. What led you to write that? 

One day, I was reading through the news and social media and it was so dark. Just pages and pages of what seemed like hopelessness. I was sad, I was angry, I was full of emotion and this feeling of defeat came over me. But, then it was like God challenged me; He reminded me of Deuteronomy 31:8 which says, "The LORD Himself goes before you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." 

That's when I wrote "Unforsaken." It's an anthem to remind us that we aren't defeated. This is why we cannot forsake fellowship, because together we are a driving force for the Kingdom of God and we keep each other strong, lift each other up, and are a beacon of hope. We're called to be light in a very dark place.
 
What do you feel led to bring to the musical/spiritual conversation as an artist? 

I feel led to relate and to speak life into what otherwise seems like hopeless situations. To remind every person who listens to my music that there are other people struggling with the same things and that you don't have to carry it alone. Ultimately, the goal is to point people to Christ and testify to what He's done in my life.

How long have you been leading worship? How does that affect the artist side of things you do, and vice versa? 

I began worship at 14 years old. I have been involved at some capacity ever since. That's 17 years for me. It's been a very interesting learning experience to go from leading worship--which is such an intimate thing--to being a "performer" to an extent. I say that because I'm just not a fake person. What you see is what you get. I'm learning a healthy balance of incorporating performance into worship, not the other way around. I love people and hearing their stories and what the music has meant to them so it definitely brings out a personal side of interaction with the crowd--just to love on people and share with them. The songs bridge the gap and are relatable to us all, so in a way, we're uplifting each other.

What's the spiritual climate like in your neck of the woods, in Missouri? 

I've lived in Missouri for 13 years now and I can tell you it's very homey compared to where I grew up. I also moved around a lot and got to see so many different spiritual climates in other places--cold and dreary ones. In our neck of the woods, most of the people you meet are super friendly, respectful and stand for Christian values whether they're Christians or not. I'd say it's a warm place.

What's next for you, Adelaide? Touring? More music? 

I'm currently working with the members of the band on writing a second album. We're really excited about it. I wrote all of the songs on the first and current album, The Bigger Picture, so co-writing has been really fun! Working with such talented and ministry-focused friends makes for great music! In the meantime, we're going where God leads us and enjoying the moment we're in!

Anything else you'd like to add? 

I am so grateful for the opportunities we've been given to play with such talented musicians and bands and I'd like to remind those who do what we do to remain humble; carry your gift with humility and remain true to the call. It's easy for music to become a business and to catch the "celebrity syndrome" but remain a vessel. Always make time for God's word and prayer. Chase God, not fame. It's crucial. "...but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts." - 1 Thessalonians 2:4

How can people be praying for you? 

Pray that God brings the music to the right people and uses it to touch lives, encourage and revive those who feel defeated. I'd also appreciate your prayers for my family and those involved in this ministry that God would continue to prepare us for wherever it is He leads. We appreciate your prayers more than you know!