Today we’d like to introduce you to Tavarious Linzer.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I am a Christ follower, singer/songwriter, worship leader, musician, and speaker.
I was born and raised in the greatest city on the planet, Houston, Texas. Being raised in the one of the most, if not, the most diverse cities in the nation, I was exposed to so many different, nonetheless, amazing cultures in which helped shape my love and appreciation for cross-cultural music.
Contrary to the most common thought of me being named after the 1970’s R&B group, Tavares, I was actually named after my mother’s classmate… not as exciting. Nonetheless, it’s different; I’ve grown to like it.
I come from a musical family on both my mother and father’s side. I grew up watching my grandmother, great uncles, and great aunts sing and play instruments in our family church that my great grandparents pastored. I remember being so young and being thrown on stage then I heard someone yell loudly “sing T, sing!” I was so shy but they told me to sing; so I did. From the church to nightclubs, to community and school talent shows, I sang because I knew I had a gift that moved people. Those years were pivotal for so many reasons and I’ll forever be grateful for that experience.
In the year 2010, I felt like something was missing in my life. I also knew that I had to figure out what it was sooner rather than later with being in my mid-teens; which are some of the most informative years of one’s life. In my search for what was missing, I begin to distinguish the difference between knowing that there was a God and having a real relationship with God. One day, I was invited to church by a girl that I had a huge crush on. I declined the invitation a few times until I realized that she might like me back if I went; so I did. Soon after receiving Christ as my personal savior, I dove right into ministry. Since then, I’ve had the blessing of being intricately involved with many thriving local churches and church plants between the Houston and the Bay area of Texas. Although I’ve been a musician for all of my life, I’ve been in ministry for a short 8 years.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
This journey of life, though extremely rewarding, has not been all easy. For every victory, there is a battle. Many of which are things that I’ve had to endure such as depression, a hostile home environment, abuse, and an automobile accident that would change my life. And then there are things within myself that I’ve had to overcome like pride, fear, and the need to have it all together.
In school, I was never the best student academically; not even by a long shot. My grades were often times “just okay” or what I would call “dude, did you even study?” I had every intention of learning the given material, however, being a kinesthetic learner, or in other words, a hands-on learner, in which method wasn’t really offered, it, consequently, made school tough for me. I am, however, the first to graduate from high school within my intermediate family.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Tavarious Linzer Music – what should we know?
I’ve loved music and it’s many sounds for as long as I can remember. I believe that music is the heartbeat of the world crossing cultural, denominational, and social wall; it brings people from all walks of life together. I grew up listening to artists that were well beyond my time while simultaneously having a natural love for the music of my era; both Christian and non. If I named one artist, I would have to name at least fifty more as there are so many that I’ve been influenced by.
My first experience with recording music was in 2004, in New York with a producer/friend of my stepfather’s. From then I fell in love with and became inspired by the artistic and creative process of music.
I had recorded other secular projects in past years but found such a greater purpose in writing music that is rooted in my faith and that inspires people to know Christ in a deeper way. After being in ministry for eight years, I finally launched and began to develop my music and sound in February of 2018.
My music is for everyone but specifically geared toward the “common person.” I am committed to creating music that is not merely euphonious to the next musician down the street but that has meaning beyond its sound. Being the perfectionist that I am, of course, I want it to sound amazing. However, the sound will move the earth whereas, the power of God within the sound will move Heaven to earth; that’s what I want and long for as an artist.
Whether it be a poppy synth, rocked up a guitar, a folky melody or a hip-hop beat, I want to make music that primarily invites people to experience and know this Jesus that I talk about, But secondly, music that’s fun and passionate. I’ll be doing this for the rest of my life so remember me!
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Joshua Duffy – Usually when artists are on full-time staff at a church, the pastor has the tendency to hold them inside closed fist; not my pastor. Josh hold me and my dreams with open hands and in fact encourages/pushes me to “get after it” and make this happen. He’s one of my biggest cheerleaders and motivates me to do better. He believes in me at a whole different level than what I ever imagined was possible.
Chad Brown – I couldn’t ask for a greater example of what it means to persevere amidst all opposition. This man served as my youth pastor years ago, helped me discover my calling and why I was created, and even paid for my first tattoo. He’s my big brother and I am who I am today because of his belief in me. One of my greatest goals is to make him proud.
Mike Rosas – We all know someone incredible but Mike has to be one of the greatest human beings I know. His leadership and integrity are unparalleled as he has set the standard high for what it means to be a Godly man. He is a mentor, wise beyond what I can explain, and consistent in everything that he puts his hands to.
Tauren Wells – Not everyone can say that they know someone famous or that is doing the very thing that they’re striving and dreaming of doing. Tauren sat down with me and helped me define this whole thing called being an artist. I’ll never forget the day he said to me “T, ACTION is key and YOU define your success.” Those words have changed my life and have brought all of my goals into perspective. I’d been heavily influenced by Tauren, well, before I knew him personally and he is an incredible example of what it means to really follow your dreams and work hard.
Crystal Linzer – My big sister is actually one of my best friends and I owe what seems like the world to her because of all she’s done for me. In times where I didn’t have it all together and couldn’t imagine how it looked put together, she was there and just her presence let me know that she loved me and is for me. She is, with no question, the strongest person I know hands down and will always be my personal wonder woman.
Juan A. Salinas – This guy brings such fun and balance to my life particularly when I take myself too seriously. He’s been in my corner when I needed him most and is no longer considered a mere friend but definitely my brother. I began ministry with him and we’ve had a ton of crazy yet amazing experiences together. I am also the proud god-father of his baby girl.
LaSondra Jones – Like everyone, I love my mother and am so thankful for the sacrifices she’s made on my behalf. No one is perfect and she certainly is not but has always instilled in me a high level of awareness and what it means to live in this world. I love her to life not only because she helped give me mine, but also, she taught me so much about it.
Contact Info:
- Email: tavariouslinzer@yahoo.com
- Instagram: @tavariouslinzer
- Facebook: @tavariouslinzermusic
- Twitter: @tavariouslinzer
Image Credit:
Matt Hammersky, Anissa Garcia, Saul Hernandez, Jorge Diaz
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
