Christian singer-songwriter Terrian is sharing her testimony in a new film.
The former member of TobyMac's Diverse City sat down with the global storytelling ministry, I Am Second, to share her story.
Music was something that Terrian knew would always be a part of her life. She grew up a pastor's kid surrounded by praise and worship music in church and her home.
By the time she was five years old, she already knew her career would involve music. However, it wasn't until later in her life that she would develop a deeper relationship with God.
After hearing Hillsong UNITED's song, "Oceans," Terrian realized that she was created to make the same kind of music.
"For the first time in my life, I accepted that God does love me and that he sees me and that he was with me in my darkest moments growing up," said Terrian.
She auditioned for American Idol in 2016, making it to Hollywood week before being eliminated, something that again made her feel as though maybe this wasn't the right path for her.
"I just started praying to the Lord, and I had a moment with him where I just surrendered to his will and whatever that was going to be for my life," said Terrian. "After that moment of surrender, doors just began to open."
About a year later, Terrian joined TobyMac's Diverse City band and signed to Gotee Records. In November 2024, she announced her departure from Diverse City to pursue a solo career.
In 2024, she was nominated for “New Artist of the Year” at the 2024 Dove Awards.
"Receiving the ‘no’ from ‘American Idol’ was tough because I wanted to forge my path," said Terrian. "It was a journey of denial; I did not want to accept that that was God's will for me. I’m grateful for that ‘no’ because the Lord taught me how to surrender to his will. I don’t think it’s worth stepping outside of God’s will for anything on this earth."
Terrian’s White Chair Film premiered on May 22.