by Cyrus Webb
Chandra Wise has been someone I have loved and admired for years. Her dedication to her craft and the way she uses her God-given gifts has put her into rooms literally around the world.
Whether we are talking about her extraordinary career in radio or how she has built her own personal brand with music and her voice, Chandra is living proof that if you let your faith and gifts guide you, there really is no limit to where you can go.
Chandra, you have had such an amazing year and career. What has it been like for you to reflect on the year that’s been 2025?
Reflecting on everything that I’ve been able to experience this year is deeply gratifying. At times it seems surreal.
I’ve had the joy of experiencing life-long dreams and goals and doing it all with an amazing team makes it even more special. Also, the support that I’ve experienced this year has exceeded my expectations. I literally received a text from friends out of state who are planning to attend some of our events in 2026. I’m blown away! It also makes me incredible hopeful about what’s to come. I’m always thinking about what’s next, so I’m taking time to be intentional and celebrate some significant milestones this year.
I, like so many others, have gotten to know you through your work in media. What led to your career behind the microphone?
This was simply an instance of opportunity meeting willingness. I was visiting WRBJ in Jackson, when the position was becoming vacant. A good friend, Shameka Reed (who actually introduced you and I, Cyrus), strongly and relentlessly suggested that I could be a good fit. We set up a meeting with the program director and the rest is history. It was never in my plan, but I’m beyond grateful to have had this opportunity.
Could you have imagined when you began that you would have the career you have enjoyed?
I always knew that my career path would be unconventional, but it has turned out much differently that I imagined. What I always knew, however, is that it would be fueled by purpose. Next year, I look forward to celebrating 15 years in radio and over 40 years in music, and I’ve enjoyed every moment of it. I’ve made lifelong and life-changing relationships and have had incredible moments that will live with me forever. My hope and prayer is always that listeners are inspired, uplifted, and encouraged and that those that work in the Gospel industry feel seen and supported.
You also have shown the importance of branching out and using new media. What has it been like for you to see how Youtube and social media have helped us to amplify our voices and reach?
It’s mind-blowing to think that we have been around since before social media was even a thing, but they are inevitable tools that help give us an endless reach. Social media platforms are ever changing and sometimes its more than a notion keeping up with the evolution and the algorithms. I absolutely love being able to share more in-depth content with my community. However I’ve never posted just to post. One thing that always cuts through the noise is authenticity. So, that’s what I allow to guide anything that I share or post.
One of your big projects for 2025 was with the Grassroots Gospel Singers and the release of the single Oh, Freedom. Talk with us about how it began. Where do I began? (laughs) This journey, for me, truly began years ago during my graduate studies at Mississippi College. As I prepared my final recital, I wanted to research African American composers. I repeatedly encountered a informational gap—many lacked the biographical documentation necessary for meaningful, in-depth study, and much of their music was already out of print. That let me to ask: why were these composers so difficult to find? As years passed, I became increasingly aware that younger generations are often unfamiliar with the foundational Gospel songs, singing styles, and the pioneers who shaped the genre. Because so much of early Gospel music was preserved through oral tradition rather than written documentation—and is no longer being widely shared in modern congregations—there is a real risk that these sacred songs, passed down by our ancestors, could be lost. Gospel music has profoundly influenced nearly every genre of American music, yet it doesn't always receive the recognition it deserves. In our own small way, this work is our contribution to preserving the genre that we love so much.
Going into 2026 is producing music something that you see yourself doing more?
Absolutely! We’re actually back in the studio right now finishing a very special project that I would love to share with you once we’re ready to release. It will be a pretty significant release in the next few weeks and some big things planned around it. It’s truly a passion project that means so much to me, so I can’t wait to share that. People can definitely look for more arranging, composing, and producing very soon!
Outside of music, what are you looking forward to in the new year?
I’m looking forward to traveling more. I recently returned from France and Portugal and it was glorious! That trip was too short. As I mentioned earlier, I’ll celebrate 15 years in radio next year. I haven’t exactly decided what that celebration will look like but we will certainly celebrate. Next year is also a significant birthday for me. I will join the 50’s club and I’m looking forward to that as well. I’m also looking forward to connecting with our community in meaning and impactful ways and more than anything, spending more time with my friends and family, especially my new great-niece and great-nephew.
Chandra, any advice you have for others who want to make 2026 the year they go after their goals and dreams?
1.) Stop over-thinking and just start. I used to allow uncertainty to keep me from starting. However, I’ve learned the journey will often unfold in ways you never imagined, so do your homework, prepare and plan, and just start.
2.) Let your purpose be your guide. When you have an enduring connection to your purpose or your “why”, it will guide you through the challenges. It will sustain you on long days, low engagement, every high and low of going for your goals and dreams. Lastly,
3.) Be authentic. It takes a lot of work to keep up with a facade. However, being authentic will leave a lasting impression on others and will draw other authentic people and opportunities to you and your purpose.
Thanks again for all you do. How can our readers stay connected with you?
It’s always a pleasure. People can connect with me on social media. My handle is the same on every platform. They can search “Chandra Wise” on Instagram, Facebook, Threads, YouTube, and hopefully next year, I’ll be more active on TikTok.
