Artists Spotlight: Decree!

Jake Seward is a second-year Music Production Technology student at Daytona State College, as well as a Christian rapper going by the stage name, Decree!. Seward has been rapping for about two years, starting when he began the MPT program.

Seward uses his faith as a driving force to create music. He uses scripture from the Bible as inspiration for writing songs, whether to tell a story or express his journey with his faith.

For instance, Seward used Ephesians 4:25 and Proverbs 12:17 as inspirations for his recent single, “Honesty.”

Another recent single, “Temptation,” was inspired by Proverbs 5:3, “Remember this: The lips of a seductress seem sweet like honey, and her smooth words are like music in your ears.”

Seward said he believes that “music is a gift from God,” and he feels connected to God through his music.

NF, Lecrae, and Scootie Wop are a few artists that Seward draws inspiration from. “NF has inspired me through my lyrics to be open with myself and the world,” said Seward, “what I listen to is what I inspire to be.”

Many students within the MPT program share similar opinions on the aspiring rapper. “I love his drive. He brings meaning into his music,” said Gabe Stevanus, another student of the MPT program. “He confidently puts his faith and beliefs over his music,” stated Julian Collins, the president of the Music Industry Club.

While Christianity is a massive part of Seward’s music, he is open to doing songs with non-Christian artists if they agree to avoid profanity.

Seward uses Pro Tools and Band Lab to produce his music. “I eventually want to get to the point where I can make my beats,” said Seward. He also recently started playing the piano and wants to incorporate the instrument into his music.

“Music helps me analyze what’s going on in my heart and mind,” said Seward.

Decree!’s latest songs, Honesty and Temptation, are available on all major streaming platforms. 

Decree!’s EP, Reality, is set to release April 28th.   

You can also find Decree! on Instagram.