Clifford Andrew
Image: Supplied
Clifford Andrew, a 50-year-old contemporary Christian artist from Kharwastan in Chatsworth, is set to release his latest single, Perfect You, by the end of this month. This heartfelt new track speaks to the songwriter's personal journey in music as he strives to inspire others while managing his own health challenges as a dialysis patient.
"Music has always been a central part of my life. I was 7 years old when I sang at my Sunday School concert. My fondest recollection dates back to when I was just 19, purchasing my first guitar along with a Simon and Garfunkel chord songbook," said Andrew, who is studying for a doctorate in theology with Thereupon University.
"I also remember singing in church at different festivals and concerts. My late mum, Rose Andrew, inspired my musical pursuits. She was a lead singer in a band called Lamp Lighters, and my late uncle, Lulu Andrew, played bass guitar and sang for The Kingsman. I was raised on both Christian and pop music, and I perform both gospel and pop, and various other genres."
On Saturday, Andrew showcased his musical talent at “Elevating The Gospel”, a live worship experience held at the BAT Centre on the Victoria Embankment.
With the anticipation of releasing Perfect You, Andrew is thrilled that the single will be available on 25 major global platforms, including Spotify and YouTube.
“The track is about a heart capturing all the memories of the person he loves, storing them like a candid lens,” he shared.
This new release follows the success of his previous songs, including Love Story, a romantic ballad about love that prevails against the odds, and I’m Alive in You, a gospel piece celebrating the transformative power of faith and redemption.
Although Andrew has faced serious health challenges, he remains resilient and dedicated to using his music as a vehicle for encouragement and healing.
"I have been a renal patient since 2018. I also overcame septicaemia and underwent heart bypass surgery in 2024. During a lengthy five-month ICU stay, I have used music as a tool for both personal healing and to uplift fellow patients. Music changes moods, and helps people forget their current struggles for a few moments."
This passion extends beyond personal expression.
Andrew serves as the chairperson of Breakthrough City Ministries, a non-profit organisation focused on community upliftment and counselling support.
His charitable efforts include performing at various events to raise funds for medical procedures, and bringing joy to those in need, especially during year-end functions for health centres.
Andrew also connects with his audience through regular TikTok streams, offering hope and encouragement to those facing health and life challenges.
“Even if for a few moments, I want to uplift spirits, and help others regain the strength to face their struggles,” he said.
The married father of two, who took voluntary early retirement, has a Master’s degree in theology and a national diploma in business management.