Tyrone's songs echo messages of love and inspiration, and keep his fans coming back for more.

Tyrone's unique style can be attributed to his musical family. With four older sisters that wrote and recorded their own music, and parents playing the piano and accordion, he couldn't help but develop a deep love for music. His family exposed him to a lot of gospel music and hymns, and he enjoyed listening to The Commodores and Stevie Wonder while he was growing up. His early musical influences are evident in his soulful style.

The purpose behind Tyrone's music is to inspire. He is a storyteller, and his music communicates stories of hope and love. Tyrone's passion for creating music is not out of a desire to sell millions of dollars' worth of albums; instead, he hopes to encourage others through his stories. That's A Life Worth Imitating. We, here at Barnabas, have been inspired by his music and we were lucky to get some time with Tyrone to discuss what has helped him become the man, musician, husband, and father he is today.

When did you discover your passion for music?
When I was in junior high I started to get really interested in listening to music and singing. I started writing really bad songs. But, they were heartfelt.

Was there anyone or anything in particular that inspired you to pursue music in the beginning?
I had a friend named Brandon O'Neill while I was growing up that was extremely gifted. Watching him use his incredible talent pushed me to use the talent that I was given. I often felt like I was in his shadow…which I think was probably a good thing and somewhat motivating. I should tell him now how much he inspired me…[He] has been singing all over the place, including Broadway, and is as talented as ever.

Music is also extremely linked to faith for me. My formative musical years were born out of singing songs to and about God. Still, today, all of my songs, in a way, are an offering to God.

You are well known for your live performances. Has performing live always been easy for you?
Noooooo! I had terrible stage fright for a very long time. In 7th grade I developed a crippling stage fright. For the next seven to eight years, I was terrified of singing in front of people. I was ok if it was a choir or several voices, but the minute it was just me, I would literally kind of lose it. My voice would get sort of siren-y.. siren-y is not a word, but you get the idea. In the eighth grade I was in this singing contest and I had to perform a solo. When it was my time to sing, I could feel the fear shooting out of my eyes. I just remember this strange warbly sound coming out of my mouth and not being able to breathe very well. Basically this was my experience for a long time. I've been asked to sing at the Los Angeles Dodgers games, the New York Knicks games and several other sporting events, but I turned them down. I'm happy to report that I have since performed the National Anthem. I was asked to sing the National Anthem at the Wild Canyon Games in Oregon…I decided it was time to step up to the plate. I was scared …but I made it through just fine.

What advice would you give to anyone out there going after their dreams?
Accomplishing dreams involves hard work and a lot of diligence. You have to be able to still the negative voices (which will sometimes be your own) and continue on with conviction toward your goal. If you want someone else to believe or support your dream, it is essential that you believe wholeheartedly in yourself. It's really amazing how so much of whether or not we accomplish a goal or dream hinges on our belief or disbelief.

What has been one of your proudest moments?
In music, I would say signing a major deal with Universal Records. Although, after having done it, the funny thing is, I realize it's not really all it's stacked up to be. Still, I am proud of that accomplishment. It's a rare thing to get a major deal.

In life, I would say seeing my daughter, Aria Lian (Ah-ree-ha Lee-ahn) for the first time. She is only 17 days old. She's amazing! My wife and I can't believe what joy has filled our hearts.

How do you think having a baby with your wife (singer Elina) will impact your career?
I think my career will be one of the best and worst parts of who I am as a father. Of course, the touring and time away will be very difficult. On the flip side, my career has been fused even more with meaning. Providing for my family is hugely motivating for me. Also, because I'm my own boss, I'm able to take off large chunks of time to be all about the family. I wouldn't have it any other way!

Which of your songs is the most meaningful to you and why?
The song "More" because I had quite a few letters come my way from people telling me that "More" was instrumental in saving their life. I can't personally claim responsibility for that, because I think that's a God thing. The song has encouraged people at just the right time and lifted them out of a dark place. My friend Nick Vujicic, who was born without limbs, was moved enough by the song that he sang a version of it and recorded a music video, as well. Nick is the most inspiring person I know. Check him out.

"Carolina Blues" is my most personal song. It's about my grandpa and my dad. I love singing it. Both my grandpa and my dad are men that have valued truth, love, and family about wealth and money. That's the gist of the song. I want to be the same kind of man.

Looking back on your career thus far, what would you do differently, if anything?
I wouldn't have had a mullet for so long.

Is there anyone or anything in your life that has inspired you? Or has there been someone whose life you wanted to imitate?
I am inspired by a lot of people and art. But the MVP would definitely go to Jesus.

There have been a lot of people along the way that I feel are worth imitating. Nick Vujicic is one of them - because he reminds me about what's important and what's not important. My father is another. He is a faithful and kind soul, a man of integrity and conviction.

What can we expect to hear or see from Tyrone Wells in the near future?
Hopefully art that is inspiring and a growing family. After having one, I kind of want to populate the earth. We'll see what my wife has to say about that.

How do you handle situations in the entertainment industry and/or everyday life that go against your set of beliefs?
I am far from perfect and have failed time and time again. But, I try my best to do what I believe is right. I press onward, and hopefully I won't make the same mistakes again.

How does it make you feel to know people are inspired by the way you live your life?
I am humbled, and grateful, and surprised because I am very aware of my faults.

Barnabas Clothing features people who are leading lives that are worth imitating. What does that mean to you?
A life worth imitating to me is someone that leads a life that is about more than just their own wants and desires. I am always blown away by people who sacrifice their comfort and well being for the comfort and well being of others. I want to be more like that.

What is the most important message that you want your fans to walk away with, whether it's from your career or how you live life daily?
It's simple. But I am always reminding myself. Life is not about amassing a fortune

and/or pretty, shiny things. It is about the relationships we have with our family and friends, and ultimately, God.

Also, love is far more than a feeling. Love is an action. A state of mind. Love is a way to live. Love is a choice. Love is strong…stronger than we even know I think.

What do you think about Barnabas Clothing?
I dig what Barnabas is about. I dig the focus on giving. I dig the focus on integrity. I dig my Barnabas t-shirt and hoodie and rock them all the time!

Click below to hear Tyrone's newly launched album
Where We Meet!

Stay connected with Tyrone Wells:
website: www.tyronewells.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/tyronewellsmusic
Twitter: http://twitter.com/tyronewells

Missed an interview? No problem. Click below and read other Meet A Barnabas interviews.

• - Juli McGowan
• - Betty Teka
• - Brendan McCarthy
• - Jake Short
• - Rachael Lampa