Cejay, an out, country/pop artist, held a single release listening party for his newest single “Different in a Small Town” from his latest EP “Who You Love” at Canvas Lounge on Saturday, April 20, 2019.
Fans started packing Canvas starting at 3:30 pm to hear the new release. Many were there lending a helping hand setting up the event and providing support for a local favorite from our community. Jeff Grissom provided food for everyone in attendance and Deborah White made sure everything was in place before taking her seat under the chandelier.
Like many artists before him and many to come after, Cejay found his way to Nashville in pursuit of a music career. Originally from Clarkton, NC, Cejay’s first single was “Where You Are Tonight” and was released in 2013 under the name Chris James. Since then, he made an appearance with American Idol where he made it through round three of the 12th season and has been nominated three times for “Best Country Male Artist of North and South Carolina“.
Cejay, along with most everyone in Canvas, was choking back tears as we heard “Different in a Small Town” for the first time. The song began with a few lines written by Cejay and the rest came to life through collaboration with singer-songwriter Morgan Myles. The song tells the story that many of us in the LGBT+ community feel growing up, especially in the South where there is a church on every corner. It is an important narrative to get out to the public to let others know they are not alone in their feelings.
It was evident that the story touched many present for today’s event as person after person walked up and offered a handshake, kind words, and even hugs giving thanks to Cejay for not only telling his story but also being brave enough to put himself out there in an effort to keep the efforts going for LGBT+ artists to be included in mainstream music.
You can continue to support local music by purchasing Cejay’s “Different in a Small Town” on iTunes or through Amazon music. You can also listen through most of the streaming services. Stay tuned for more information on Cejay and his latest EP “Who You Love”.
