From Soldier to Soul Singer: Paul Eke Rediscovers His Faith Through ‘Say It Ain’t True’
Paul Eke has a way with words, and it’s evident in his latest single, “Say It Ain’t True,” a
Paul Eke has a way with words, and it’s evident in his latest single, “Say It Ain’t True,” a heartfelt ballad that evokes a sense of nostalgia, spinning inside one’s chest like a vintage romance record. It’s a faith-based sonic vibration sure to sooth and console believers and non-believers alike. After attending college in Texas and joining the Army shortly after graduation, his years of education and experience began to unexpectedly pave the way toward a more creative path. His roots—growing up in church and singing in the choir—began to embed themselves more deeply into his everyday life. Upon leaving the Army, Eke took a leap of faith and moved to New York City to pursue acting and singing. Drawn by the city’s promise of opportunity and possibility, he confidently auditioned for roles and performed in clubs, making friends and becoming immersed in the rough and tumble entertainment industry. In 1995, however, Eke felt the need for change. His decision to move to Nashville and open an independent record label, Sahara Records, marked a pivotal moment in his creative journey. There, he dipped his toes in music production and explored the world of songwriting for other artists, deepening his passion for music and songwriting in ways he had never imagined.
“Say It Ain’t True”, though centered on the struggles of a romantic relationship, was inspired by the ways God has helped Eke overcome specific challenges. Despite his religious upbringing, Eke didn’t fully lean into faith until later in life, when he began serving as a Deacon at a church in Nashville. His ambitions and desires became increasingly guided by a higher power—both through his role in the church and his journey in music. This newfound spiritual strength gave him the tools to say goodbye, make peace, reconcile, and overcome life’s many trials. While “Say It Ain’t True” music video explores uncertainty in a relationship—the nagging question of whether Eke’s lover is being honest—its musical landscape is rich with emotional, heart-tugging production that feels timeless and classic. Reminiscent of both Prince and Luther Vandross, the song features vast background vocals, delicate Rhodes twinkles, and a dominant, expressive saxophone that all sounds like a summery candlelit dinner on a quiet, radiant pond. There’s no doubt that Eke means every word in this passionate, amorous ballad that leaves listeners longing for the long-awaited truth.
“Say It Ain’t True” feels like such a timeless ballad. What was the spark that first led you to write this song?
” Say it aint true” was originally sung by Sir Rod Stewart with a high tone. It was good to be listened to in the morning or the afternoon. But we all know the evenings and nights, we all decompress and rest. So, I thought about how the world could still listen to the song around these relaxing hours and slowly calm their spirit. I made the song for relaxation. Something I can listen to and slowly drift into sleep.
The track speaks to the struggles of a relationship but also draws from your faith. How do you see those two themes intertwining in this song?
It takes a lot of faith to go into a relationship and to stay in it because it is not a cakewalk. And also faith to ask someone who wants to walk away to stay. Anyone who wants to be in a relationship needs lots of positive things and faith that it will all work out in the end.
The arrangement—with Rhodes keys, lush background vocals, and that soaring saxophone—feels both classic and deeply personal. How did you shape the sound to match the emotion you wanted to convey?
I really emphasized to my producer that I wanted sax sounds in it. I am a great jazz lover, and any jazz song takes me on a wonderful trip. Love jazz. The song tells a narrative of a man literally begging and I don’t see anything wrong with begging someone you love to stay.
Listeners have compared the vibe to artists like Prince and Luther Vandross. Were those influences in your mind while recording, or did the song naturally fall into that lineage?
Luther was uppermost on my mind as we recorded. He was a great ballad singer. May his soul rest in peace. He gave us lots of songs to spend our evenings, and in that line, I followed his steps.
The video, directed by Jean Ben, dives into uncertainty and honesty in a relationship. What was important for you to capture visually about that emotional tension?
Visually, I feel it is important that we approach love from the heart and not lose the compassion and love we ought to express, but let our egos force us to give up so easily
Your journey has taken you from growing up singing in the church choir, to serving in the Army, to chasing acting and music in New York, to launching a label in Nashville. Looking back, how have those different chapters shaped you as a songwriter?
Wah, I have been so interested in music and love music all my life. While my stay in the US Army gave me the resolve to chase any dream, singing has always been a part of my daily life. It is a way for me to lighten my daily stress. From the 80s, I have always envisioned myself singing certain songs. Songs that have great messages. And every life experience gives me that unique desire or reassurance that I should see these experiences as a prelude to a higher calling in music. The totality of who I am shapes my feelings and thinking and is reflected in the kind of songs I sing.
This song carries a lot of vulnerability. Was it difficult for you to put those emotions out there so openly, or did it feel freeing?
Yes, it carries vulnerability, but it takes a strong heart to face those vulnerabilities. And at the end, there is a degree of freedom. A solemn calmness and reminder that you are still human.
Fans who hear “Say It Ain’t True” will likely connect with both the romance and the deeper spiritual thread. What do you hope they walk away feeling after listening?
I want my fans who listen to the song to feel a sense of calmness, an inner peace and hope. It is like coming out of a meditative state. I want people to feel it is alright to feel love, to realize it is soothing
Before we wrap up, what’s next on your horizon—more singles, an album, or live performances where we can experience these songs in person?
Thanks, I enjoyed your questions. I am working on another single. This one would surely make the world want to dance again like the Disco Era. It would have lots of funk beats and uniqueness. Wait, it will thrill many and shock them too that one can old lines and put great vibes to them
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