Claire Leslie
Claire’s a singer-songwriter and worship leader pursuing her dreams from San Antonio, TX.
Claire’s life is one filled with faith, courage, and a passion to make a real difference in the lives of everyone around her. Whether she’s writing a new song, leading from stage, or having a simple conversation, Claire uses it all to help others get to know Jesus.
With every step forward, Claire continues to live with purpose, empowering others to live original and embrace their true identity.
What dream are you currently turning into reality?
As a worship leader and singer-songwriter, I strive to live a life where my music is the means to my ministry, and my heart reflects the contagious joy found in Jesus.
In every song I lead, lyric I write, or day to day conversation I have, I want to point others back to The One who deserves it all.
In other words, my career pursuit is to be a “musicianary” (musician + missionary), writing music that reaches the lost and found - Living with a purpose that reflects His glory and grace.
When did you first realize you discovered your dream?
I’ve been leading worship and writing music since I was 14. I remember the first Sunday I played keys in my youth worship band as if it were yesterday. A few weeks in, they put a mic in front of my face, and I was terrified. Over the next few years, I started to gain more confidence and experience on how to lead. I always knew I was leading worship and singing songs about God, but my heart wasn’t fully in it.
Somewhere in the midst of it all, I started to write and release my own music. I remember the overwhelming emotions I had when my song “Come & Go” was released in 2019. I had written the song in 2016, but for years, I was too caught up in the unnecessary lies and doubts of it not being good enough. When it released, my eyes were opened, and I realized for the first time the impact vulnerability and honesty can have on others. As I continued to song-write and lead worship at different local churches, my passion for music and people continued to grow. Yet, I still found myself battling perfectionism and the desire to be perceived a certain way.
In 2020, I started to post more on my singing account (@clairelesliesings) and connect with other local artists and worship leaders. After a few videos with my younger brother went “viral” over the pandemic, people from all around the world started to reach out, explaining the impact the videos made on their lives. My videos and songs people were most drawn to were the ones where I was most myself. I started to notice the common denominator - People are drawn to vulnerability and honesty. We’re all broken and in need of the hope and truth we have in Jesus. There’s something special about simply being real with others; It’s comforting…it’s rare…it’s magnetic.
Through that realization, I’ve started to worship from a place of humility and authenticity rather than insecurity and perfectionism. I found freedom in simply letting go of control in my life. It’s been an ongoing, bumpy ride, but a breath of fresh air.
As I sit here reflecting on my journey, I can’t pinpoint the exact moment I first realized I discovered my dream. In fact, I feel as though I’m still currently in the process of trying to figure that out. I tend to have my feet on the ground but my head in the clouds most days. I’m learning to boldly stand firm in the Lord’s calling on my life. It’s time to enjoy the present, rest in the unknown, and dare to dream big.
How does your faith go hand in hand with pursuing your dream?
The biggest key is to remember who I’m living for. Without the Lord, I’d be living without direction or true meaning.
Something my dad reminded me of before an event I led worship at was: “God has more than prepared you for tonight…but just enough. Yes, enough for the world to be moved. Enough to be used for His glory. The Creator of the universe has invited you into that perfect void. The void that can only be filled with your willing acceptance of His invitation to hold His hand, and follow Him with all your heart, your soul, and your anointing. He wants you, and with your obedience, comes the extraordinary.” That has stuck with me ever since.
What’s one or two practical steps you take to keep moving forward?
As someone who tends to jump to the next project or opportunity, a daily reminder I have for myself is to slow down. It’s easy for me to quickly lose sight of who got me where I am today.
I’ve been taking time to humbly sit and thank the Lord for all He has done and will continue to do. It has been so, so sweet.
What encouragement would you share with someone who’s going after their dream?
There is freedom in letting go. When God provides inspiration, don’t wait to act. Part of the creative process is obedience to the vision He gives you.