KNYSNA NEWS - Chloe Leigh is marking a milestone in her musical journey with the release of her debut album, BLOOM, a collection of worship songs inspired by her faith and walk with God.
Chloe's husband, Jonathan, produced the album and helped to bring her musical vision for it to life. Raised in Johannesburg, Chloe was surrounded by music from an early age.
She sang in school concerts, choirs and eisteddfods, and at 11, she attended a vocal academy with renowned South African vocal coach Malie Kelly, whose training helped develop her voice.
At 15, she became involved in worship ministry, where music took on a deeper meaning.
"That is really where music became more than simply something I loved doing. It became an expression of my faith and a way of placing worth and value on Jesus," she says.
A journey of faith
For Chloe, BLOOM is a significant step of faith. The album draws inspiration from Mark 4, which speaks of seed being sown into good ground, growing and producing a harvest. "BLOOM represents allowing the Word of God to be planted deeply within us, trusting Him to water and grow what has been planted, and allowing our lives to produce fruit for His glory," she says.
The album title also has a personal connection. Chloe's name means "blooming", but BLOOM has come to represent much more - growth, remaining rooted in Christ and trusting God through every season.
The songs reflect different chapters of her journey, with themes such as grace, identity, God's goodness and faithfulness, belonging and security in Christ.
One song particularly close to her heart is "Harvest Table", which explores Communion, the Good Shepherd preparing a table and the wedding feast and union with Christ.
"Jesus has invited us to His table. There is belonging, relationship and joy in what He has accomplished for us."
Faith through music
Scripture is central to Chloe's songwriting, and every song on BLOOM is connected to a Scripture passage. "Music is powerful, but for me the message will always be more important than simply creating a beautiful song. I want what I write to place worth on Jesus and point people towards Him," she says.
Freedom Church Knysna has played an important role in her journey, giving her a place to serve, grow and develop as a worship leader while being surrounded by an encouraging community.
Since the album's release, Chloe has received strong support from family, friends and her church community.
For Chloe, the most meaningful response has been hearing how individual songs have spoken to listeners, encouraged them or reminded them of God's faithfulness.
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