Taylor Made

My Life, My Story

Dr. Will Harris

• Publisher: J Merrill Publishing, Inc.
• Year: 2024
• Print ISBN:
  9781961475212
• eBook ISBN:
  9781961475229
• Topic: Social Sciences
• Subtopic: Social Science Biographies
• Index: Social Sciences

"Taylor Made: My Life, My Story" is an autobiographical exploration of Dr. Will Harris's remarkable journey through life, music, and faith. Born and raised in the small yet vibrant town of Taylor, Mississippi, Dr. Harris's narrative captures the essence of a soul nurtured by gospel music and tested by life's numerous trials. From his early days playing the piano in church to his pivotal role as a Minister of Music, this book traces his ascent against a backdrop of personal and familial challenges, including growing up with parents who battled mental illness. Dr. Harris delves deep into the influences that shaped his career and personal life—from his formidable years under the guidance of community choirs to his academic and spiritual development at Rust College. He shares the profound impact of leading the Baptist Student Union Gospel Choir, which became a cornerstone of his musical and leadership skills. His move to Fayetteville, North Carolina, marks a significant phase where he took on the full-time role of Minister of Music at Lewis Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, further solidifying his impact on the gospel music scene. The narrative does not shy away from the struggles inherent in balancing a demanding career with personal growth. Dr. Harris discusses the financial and emotional toll of striving for success in the competitive music industry, his eventual realization of the need to recalibrate his dreams, and his strategic steps towards sustainable artistry without compromising his spiritual calling. "Taylor Made" also highlights Dr. Harris's innovative contributions to music education, illustrating his passion for mentoring young musicians and his visionary approach to music ministry. The memoir is replete with lessons on resilience, the importance of authenticity in one's craft, and the unyielding power of faith. Through candid reflections and heartwarming anecdotes, Dr. Will Harris invites readers into the intimate quarters of his life, making "Taylor Made: My Life, My Story" not just a memoir, but a beacon of hope and a testament to the transformative power of music and faith in overcoming life's greatest challenges.

Table of contents

• Cover
• Title Page
• Copyright
• Dedication
• Contents
• Foreword by M.Lamar Campbell
• Prologue
• 1. God’s Plan
• 2. He Knows My Name
• 3. Fly High
• 4. My Father/The Mystery
• 5. My Early Music Life
• 6. Learning the Piano
• 7. Resilience
• Gallery
• 8. Mom’s Decline
• 9. Rust College
• 10. Zebedee Jones, My Music Mentor
• 11. Perseverance
• 12. Songwriting and Recording
• 13. Destiny
• About Dr. Will Harris