Ayomilly Unfiltered: Testimony, Trials and Trusting God With It All
In this Holy Culture Artist Spotlight, J. Harrington sits down with Ayomilly, a prominent Christian hip-hop artist originally from Toronto, Ontario, and currently residing in Texas. Ayomilly shares his life journey, his transition to the United States, and his deeply personal relationship with music and faith.
Discovering Ayomilly
Jay Harrington begins the conversation by welcoming Ayomilly and clarifying his preferred name. Ayomilly, it turns out, feels more at home with the name “Millie” rather than “AO.” This small detail sets the tone for the discussion about authenticity and identity. Ayomilly introduces himself as a Christian hip-hop artist, originally from Canada but now based in Texas. He reflects on the cultural differences and cost of living between the two regions.
From Toronto to Texas
Ayomilly’s move from Toronto to the United States in July 2023 was a significant change. He shares that living in Texas is more affordable compared to Toronto, Ontario, notorious for its cold weather and high costs. He humorously dispels some misconceptions about Canadian living costs gathered from social media.
The Path to Faith
Jay delves into Ayomilly’s spiritual journey. Raised in a Christian household, Ayomilly recounts the early influences of his faith, including being the child of a pastor. However, his journey was not without challenges; a traumatic incident in his youth—a close friend’s murder—left a significant impact on him and his community. This incident and subsequent events led Ayomilly down a turbulent path during his adolescence, marked by rebellion and association with the wrong crowd.
Finding His Calling Through Music
Despite the struggles, music became a refuge for Ayomilly. He discovered his passion for music in high school, learning to use studio equipment and produce music. However, the Toronto rap scene’s association with gang culture pulled him into dangerous situations, which he candidly talks about.
Nevertheless, Ayomilly emphasizes that his family’s unwavering support and his encounters with life-threatening situations prompted a reevaluation of his priorities. He began seeking a deeper relationship with his family and returned to his faith. This period of introspection led to drastic life changes, including quitting alcohol and distancing himself from negative influences.
Music as a Vessel for Change
Ayomilly’s music reflects his journey and the transformation he experienced. He initially struggled with the purpose of his music, torn between his existing fanbase and the desire to create music that aligned with his renewed faith. But inspiration from other Christian hip-hop artists and realizations about his artistic capabilities inspired him to embrace his faith in his music.
The Challenges of 2023
The past year represented a time of significant transitions for Ayomilly. His relocation to the US, coupled with economic pressures and the release of his green card, required patience and faith. The song “Patience,” written during this time, encapsulates these struggles and serves as a testament to his belief in divine timing.
A New Role as a Father
In 2024, Ayomilly embraced fatherhood for the first time. Balancing his role as a musician and a new father posed its own set of challenges, prompting him to rethink his career direction. He contemplated stepping back from music, considering avenues like audio engineering. However, this reflection led him to refocus on his love for music and its true purpose beyond financial gain.
Renewed Focus and Future Plans
Now, Ayomilly is setting his sights on an ambitious 2025. With plans to release 20 songs in the first half of the year, he centers his work around the joy and personal significance of music, reiterating its role in influencing his community rather than striving for commercial success. His project lineup includes both singles and an upcoming EP, all crafted to resonate with listeners on a meaningful level.
Conclusion
Ayomilly’s story is a narrative of persistence, faith, and artistic evolution. His music now serves not only as a creative outlet but also as a medium for spreading positive influence within his community. As Ayomilly continues to produce engaging and powerful music, his journey of faith and redemption stands as a source of inspiration for his listeners.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:24 AO Millie’s Background and Move to Texas
00:51 Life in America vs. Canada
01:42 Journey to Faith
03:19 Struggles and Rebellion
05:47 Turning Point and Redemption
13:30 Embracing Christian Music
18:12 Rise in the Music Industry
19:35 Collaborations and Networking
21:28 Making Music Connections
23:40 Challenges of Moving to America
26:42 Balancing Life and Music
29:30 A New Chapter: Fatherhood and Music
33:34 Rediscovering the Joy of Music
38:22 The Comeback: New Music and Future Plans
