worship leader, songwriter, musician

Jami Smith is a worship leader, songwriter, and musician whose authentic voice and passion for leading others into God’s presence have made her a respected name in Christian music for over 30 years.

Her love for music took hold early, singing in her hometown church in Chickasha, Oklahoma, then studying music education at Oklahoma Baptist University. After a profound spirit-led moment leading worship at a youth camp, Jami bought a garage-sale guitar, joined the Centrifuge camp team, and began her journey as a worship leader. Her early years on the road—often alone with just her guitar—were marked by perseverance, faith, and a growing reputation for heartfelt worship.

As her calendar filled with bookings, Jami began traveling full-time. Around this time, she formed a close friendship with members of another rising band in Christian music—MercyMe. While God was clearly growing worship music, Jami was aware of her distinct calling: not just to perform, but to invite people into active worship.

By the early 2000s, Jami was leading worship at major events across the country and abroad, ultimately signing with a national record label and releasing albums that expanded her reach and influence. Her music, marked by its intimate, vertical lyrics sung directly to God (Your Love is Deep, Wash Over Me, Salt and Light), made her a trailblazer as a female in the modern worship movement.

Jami’s musical roots run deep—nurtured by a musical grandmother who played for silent films, a mother who sang in the church choir, a brother who also now leads worship, and a tight-knit church family that gave her space to grow. 

Now married with children, Jami is based in Oklahoma City, and serves as Worship Pastor at Oakdale Baptist Church.  Despite having a job close to home, she continues to travel and lead worship while also continuing to build a rich tradition of annual Christmas concerts, blending worship with family and storytelling. 

Whether on stage with her longtime band or with her musically gifted children by her side, Jami remains committed to pointing people to God’s love, healing, and grace.