He's quiet, purposeful, anointed and going places quickly (literally, lol) - PAJE got a chance to catch up with Oshane Mais, a truly authentic and kindred soul who knows what he's about and is intent on doing his best to serve God. We wanted to give our PAJE Fam the chance to get to know him better! Let's jump in.
PAJE: One thing we've gotta say is that 'Oshane Mais' has managed to be like that observant, quiet fly on the wall that has a massive, purposeful presence; a true epitome of less talking, more action for God. But, beyond our observations, we would love to know - how would YOU describe yourself?
Oshane: Ha! That really sums me up. I am actually very shy and reserved at times; I would say I am introverted, and if it had not been for music and ministry, I would be present in a space or room and no one would even notice. But apart from that, I am a fair, kind, and loving individual who loves to support others. I am family-oriented and big on giving a helping hand where needed. Most importantly, I love God and ministry.
PAJE: Love that! Many persons who have observed your journey have exclaimed that you've had a steady and stellar rise through ministry over the years and somehow, it seems that you've become seasoned beyond your years. Nevertheless, we want to know - what has this journey as an artiste felt like for you?
Oshane: I am humbled by that. The journey is not expected to be smooth sailing, as most times obstacles and hurdles will come, but it’s really to strengthen us and cause us to develop a new perspective based on our experiences.
As with everything, there are ups and downs, but I’m happy to share that there have been more ups than downs.
To be honest, it has been difficult at times to find the right team to help push the vision to the next level, but I am grateful for the support I’ve gotten so far.
PAJE: Got you on that. Was music ministry always the intended path for your life; what led you to make the decision that artistry was going to be a solid part of your journey in life?
Oshane: Well, music has always been a part of my life (from birth), so I definitely couldn’t escape it; I grew up in a musical family. But as it relates to artistry and ministry, I was influenced by the groups I was a part of, Radical Weapons and Urim 7 Band.
It was within these spaces that I learned the dos and don'ts of ministry, how to develop my craft—practice until it becomes permanent—and devotionals with a concentration on the art of worship and the dedication of my gifts and talents to the kingdom of God. Coupled with the push from my mother to start doing original music.
PAJE: Well, this path has certainly blossomed! We noticed that you travel to minister intermittently and that you have carefully nurtured your community. We can only imagine that a lot has come with that experience! What has it been like building a community here in Jamaica, and overseas and how have you managed to remain grounded in your relationship with God in the midst of it all?
Oshane: It’s a joy to be able to travel and share the gospel through music all over.
I am so honoured that the Lord would have favoured me this way.
Building in the gospel music industry takes time, dedication, and hard work. But I decided to stay true to my musical roots.
I grew up in a church that sang a lot of hymns and old-school gospel music with touches of modern contemporary as well. I realised that a lot of Jamaicans have that same shared experience, so with that concept, I redid some of those older songs and hymns, adding a more modern flair, style, and presentation, and I believe it aided with building the community of supporters I have today. This also helped with developing connections and support in the Jamaican diaspora in Canada and the USA.
All that I do is for the glory of God and the advancement of his kingdom. This mindset has caused me to remain humble, also understanding that though I am rising today, if the focus is shifted to vain glory, the Lord will cause me to be a base.
PAJE: Speaking of a lot - congrats on your recent engagement! May God's richest blessings envelope your union! What would you say to encourage fellow, young musicians and artistes who feel like if they devote their life to serving God, they won't really have time to meet, marry and build a life with someone?
Oshane: Thank you! Funny story: it was upon honouring a ministry request that I reconnected with my fiancée. If you desire to be married, ministry won’t stop you; it will find you. But making the right decision is the most challenging part. You will be approached by many candidates, but it’s the one that best aligns with your ministry and life objectives that will be the best choice.
PAJE: Lol, that's pretty awesome, and we're sure that will definitely encourage fellow ministers. In addition to that - what would you say to the person who feels trapped in the box that people place them in, which makes them feel obligated to become a people pleaser, even though they know God has called them to embrace their own, unique identity?
Oshane: In everything, there is a lesson to be learned, and for everything, there is a season. Use the opportunity to learn about a different form of creativity or gospel genre and also create a space for your unique identity or sound in the same breath, then merge both until you’re able to launch your individual sound with success.
PAJE: Solid. Thanks for that. Over the past 3 years, many Christians have found their faith tested in one way or another. What would you say are 3 of the biggest lessons you've learned in the past 3 years?
Oshane: The 3 biggest lessons I've learned in the space of 3 years are:
a. Hold on to the promises of God. The Lord promised the possession of land flowing with milk and honey, but it won't come without its fair share of hurdles and hardships-the giants.
b. Nothing can separate us from the love of God; even if you were the reason for your own demise, He's able to deliver you out of it.
c. Don't isolate yourself, but rather surround yourself with forward-thinking and Christ-like people. This support system will remind you of the promises and miracles the Lord has performed on your behalf. Iron sharpens iron. The enemy wants us to be alone with our thoughts so he can create war in our minds.
PAJE: On a lighter note, we're curious - what is it that you do outside of music and how do you balance everything?
Oshane: I am a data analyst at one of Jamaica’s most prominent financial institutions. It is a necessity that I maintain a balance because my day job is what the Lord is really using in some aspects to sustain the ministry, so I have to be a good steward in all things. I try to employ good time management strategies so that all areas are covered and also start to delegate.
PAJE: On a regular day, if you had no shows and no external obligations, what are three things Oshane Mais would definitely be doing?
Oshane: On a regular day, the three things I would be doing if I didn’t have any other obligations are:
a. Sleeping
b. Watching Tv Series
c. Listening to music
PAJE: Do you have any upcoming projects we can look out for? (within the next 6 months)
Oshane: Yes, I have one upcoming project with the big man himself, Kevin Downswell. We’ve done a collaboration together entitled ‘Love’ and hope to drop it in the early part of the new year 2024.
PAJE: Oshane, we really appreciate you taking the time to share with us! We pray God's continued favour and blessings as you press forward! Before you go, is there anything else you'd like to say?
Oshane:
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