As the sun beamed down in the summer of 2023, a groundbreaking collaboration emerged from the heart of gospel music, creating waves that have since rippled through the souls of listeners far and wide. Toyalove, Reece Lache’, and Childlike CiCi joined forces to deliver the lead single “Stay Low” for Reach Records’ 6th annual Summer Playlist. This isn’t just any track; it quickly soared to anthem status, blending high energy and hard-hitting beats with a profound message on humility. For gospel music fans, this collaboration marks a monumental moment, reminiscent of the impact Lecrae & Andy Mineo’s RIAA Certified Platinum track “Coming In Hot” had upon its release.
The narrative behind “Stay Low” took an even more captivating turn towards the end of last year. Through a genuine exchange on Instagram’s Threads app, Childlike CiCi and Toyalove reached out to Jackie Hill Perry, a revered figure in the gospel music scene. Jackie’s response was heartfelt; she expressed a deep desire to engage with music despite her hectic schedule. CiCi’s reply was inspiring: “Send twelve bars and I’ll handle the rest.” This was the beginning of something special.
Including Wande, Reach Records’ leading lady, added another layer of depth to the project. The result was a potent remix featuring dynamic verses from some of Christian rap’s most spiritually powerful women. The song showcased their lyrical prowess, deep-rooted faith, resilience, and shared commitment to spreading a message of humility and reliance on God’s uplifting grace.
Childlike CiCi, reflecting on the song, shared, “This song was thoughtfully curated, weaving a tapestry of faith, resilience, and Christian rap culture.” The aim was clear: to inspire spiritual growth and impart the significance of humility and the divine role in our upliftment.
Wande and Jackie Hill Perry were announced as joining the song on the 60th episode of The 116 Life, a show that delves into faith, hip-hop, and culture on Holy Culture’s SiriusXM Channel 154. This episode not only provided insights into the collaborative process but also highlighted the personal journeys of the artists involved.
Jackie Hill Perry shared a poignant reflection on her career, noting how this song presented a unique opportunity to express her authentic self, a rarity in her experiences. For Wande, participating in this song was a leap of faith, especially considering the challenges she faced with her health. Her story is a testament to the power of faith over perfection, a theme that resonates deeply within the song itself.
