Jayde Dorsey, a 12-year-old talented gospel singer from North Omaha, captivates audiences with her soulful voice and deep emotional connection to her music. With the support of her close-knit family, her vocal journey has been a testament to her resilience and determination to inspire others, particularly young girls with dreams of their own.
During her performance at the Harris–Walz campaign rally last August at The Astro in Papillion, Dorsey moved audience members with a powerful rendition of the 1964 R&B song “A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke. For Dorsey, the song choice was more than just a selection from her playlist—it was a way to channel her beliefs and emotions into something transformative.
“I really enjoy singing powerful songs, and that’s one of the reasons I chose to sing a version of a song by Sam Cooke,” she shared. “It’s such a powerful piece, and when I perform it, I think of happy moments and pour everything out on stage. Singing it just made me feel good.”
Dorsey’s journey in music isn’t a solo one. Her family’s unwavering support plays a crucial role in her growth and confidence. She credits her parents for encouraging her to follow her passions, adding that every decision she makes, she wholeheartedly embraces. “My parents have been very supportive of everything I do, and I truly enjoy all of it—I’m not forced into any of it,” she said. This familial foundation also extended to pageantry, a realm where Dorsey’s love for beauty and health intersected with her desire to build self-confidence.
Pageants became a space where Dorsey could refine her poise and grace, and they were instrumental in helping her gain confidence—skills she has carried over to her music career. She explained, “Pageants have taught me so much about confidence. With every pageant, I learn more about myself and gain more self-assurance by meeting new people and learning new things.” Each experience on stage, whether a pageant or performance, she uses as an avenue for self-discovery.
Her dedication to gospel music became a powerful emotional outlet, particularly during difficult times. “A couple of months ago, I had the chance to sing at my grandmother’s memorial. All the emotions I felt just poured out through my singing, and it helped me process what my family was going through. When I sing, I feel like my emotions flow smoothly, and it just feels right,” she explained. This ability to channel her feelings into her music give Dorsey’s performances an authentic, heartfelt quality that audiences can feel, too.
Dorsey also has a deep passion for inspiring even younger generations. “I tell young girls who want to sing that it’s a lot of hard work and requires sacrifices. You must practice and work for it, even if you can't hit a certain note at first,” she said. “Giving advice to little girls inspires them, and it also makes me feel good to encourage them and help them feel confident about themselves.”
Part of her discipline and preparation for success has involved a strict approach to her health. For Dorsey, taking care of her voice is paramount, and she has incorporated specific routines to ensure she’s always performance-ready.
“Before a performance, I avoid dairy and ice cream—which is hard, because I love it—but it’s worth it to be at my best,” she said with a smile. Dorsey’s commitment to her craft means she’s willing to make these sacrifices, knowing that even small choices can ultimately enhance her vocal strength and control. This mindset, paired with the discipline she built with her pageant background, has led her to approach her music career holistically, with self-care always at the forefront.
Dorsey has her sights set on growing as a gospel artist, continuing to use her music to uplift others and spread positivity to all who are willing to listen. Though her journey is just beginning, her commitment to excellence and passion for making a difference hint at a promising future. Dorsey has proven she’s not just a singer—she’s a source of inspiration and a role model.
This article originally appeared in the January/February 2025 issue of Omaha Magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.
