Christon Gray Explains How A Hiatus Inspired His New Album 'Clear The Heir'

Life served Christon Gray a helping hand in 2017, but the Christian rapper/singer knew that God had a bigger plan for him, so he took some time off to clear his head. During his hiatus from the industry, as well as social media, the 32-year-old found healing and the inspiration for his just-released album, Clear the Heir. But, most importantly, the recording of the follow-up to 2016's The Glory Album brought him validation that Jesus does indeed love him. It's the most important narrative told in the 11-track collection, which also features a number of collaborations, including his daughter, Mya Blue, Art Gray, JGivens and many more. 

Ahead of the release of the collection, Gray spoke with iHeartRadio about the makings of the project, his time away from the business and what he has planned for the remainder of the year. Scroll on below to read our Q&A with the singer!

What was the agenda when making your new album, Clear the Heir?

It was important for me to take some time to set something's straight. I had gone through a lot of personal and professional obstacles in 2017, even the end of 2016, and I had taken some time away from the business and social media and needed to clear my head. During that time, I came to the realization that, as much as I don't enjoy some things that have happened to me or that I have done, I am here for a reason and God has a path. He needs me to walk. So as we started writing, I wanted to be as honest and transparent as I ever have, even more than in the past. I felt like my story could help people. I felt like the Lord was telling me this was not in vain [and] that His purpose would prevail. We spent the next six months listening to the Holy Spirit, trying to be obedient and made what I believe is the best music of my career.

What did you learn most about yourself during the process?

That Jesus loves me. That I have value. That my story is important. And that, in turn, taught me that everyone in the world has value, that Jesus loves everyone, that everyone's story is important. When you grow up in the church, sometimes you find yourself looking at life through a specific lens, not always walking a mile in the shoes of others. That's not everyone's experience, but it is a common one. After I had gone through a divorce and had other things go down in my life that I didn't think I would ever do, I learned quickly that life isn't always what it seems and we need to give a voice to all the people who are out here struggling or hurting and let them know they are loved. That's what got me through.

How did the title of the LP come about?

That we are co-heirs with Christ, that we are part of the kingdom. Again, that we have value. All of us, every person walking the face of the earth is important to God. So that is why I chose Heir. The play on words referencing, clearing my name, so to speak. Reminding myself, and, in turn, others, that our sins don't define us. Our mistakes don't rule our lives. Faith in God does, His value on us does. No matter what you do, where you're from, we're all in this together.

You have several features on the album, including your daughter, Mya Blue. Talk to us about that track "May 22 2015 (Seekrets Voicenotes Interlude)."

I was blessed to have some killer features on this album, starting with my daughter! She's on an interlude that birthed the song "Seekrets" and it's just so authentic. You can hear the pain and sadness in my voice as I'm trying to lay the foundation for this song idea I had, but then her voice in the background yelling and playing is like a bright light. It's awesome! 

I have Andy Hull from Manchester Orchestra bring his immense talent to the final song on the album, "By The Way". I am a big fan of Andy and Manchester and we've been friends for a little while now, so that one came together very easily. On "You & I (Sampson's Lament)," I have my close friend JGivens, who helped write it as well, along with Tim McTague from Underoath shredding all over it. "Gray" has two of my favorite artists: my brother Taelor Gray and my boy Tragic Hero. "Take Me To The Water" features Brian Reith, and includes cameos from my girl Shana, who's praying with me and Shabby's daughter singing "Jesus Loves Me" at the end. I mean, these are all people who are legitimate family or like family to me, so you hear that connection on every feature.

What else is in store for you for the remainder of the year?

I'm going to promote this album and then take some time off. It has been a tough year and this business takes a lot out of me. I care so much about what I do and how it's presented that I do so much of the additional work that many people leave to a label or manager. I'll look forward to a little breather then we're hitting the road next year at the end of the first quarter, into the second, then I'm having my wedding. So the party keeps on going!

Photo: Getty Images


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