Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how your childhood impacted your musical direction?
A: My musical journey began at the age of six when I started playing the drums. By 16, I formed his first band, “Flight,” and began performing in bars, launching a career that included playing in rock bands and recording a CD titled Stinger with a Los Angeles record company. A transformative experience with Jesus inspired me to turn away from secular music and dedicate my talents to creating music that glorifies God and uplifts others.
Q: How are you planning on growing your fan base and sharing your music with the world? What message do you have for anyone who is about to discover “Howard Gripp”
A: My plan to grow my fan base is rooted in authentic connection through my music and performances. I’ll engage fans on social media with behind-the-scenes content, personal stories, and acoustic sessions. I’m focused on reaching listeners via streaming platforms, collaborating with Christian artists, and performing at festivals, smaller venues, and churches. Building relationships with Christian radio, podcasts, and blogs is also key to amplifying my message.
B: My music shares hope, redemption, and God’s grace through real stories of struggle and salvation. I want to remind you that you’re never alone and that God’s love can renew even the most broken hearts. I hope my songs inspire you to keep moving forward, no matter where you are on your journey.
Q: Who is the most inspiring artist for you right now? And where do you find inspiration for making music?
A: The artist who inspires me the most is also the one I’d love to co-write with: Ben Fuller. He’s an incredible writer and performer with a deep, unwavering focus on God. A couple of years ago, I felt God nudging me to take my music in a different direction and dedicate it fully to Him. It wasn’t until I saw Ben Fuller perform at Lifest in Oshkosh, WI, that I truly understood what God was calling me to do. That moment was transformative, and I believe God used Ben’s talent and passion as the spark to set me on this new mission. His music and faith continue to inspire me as I follow the path God has laid out for my ministry.
Q: Can you tell us about the story or message behind the song, “Fearless.”?
A: “Fearless” celebrates the profound strength found in Jesus amid life’s hardships. Through its uplifting lyrics and powerful melodies, the song reflects a journey of overcoming challenges with unwavering faith. It resonates with the empowering message of trusting in Jesus to conquer fear and adversity, inspiring listeners to find courage and resilience through their relationship with Him.
Q: How would you describe your sound in one word for potential listeners
A: Transformative
Q: Did you face any challenges while writing or recording “Fearless”?
A: Not really. This was one of those songs that just came to me and needed very little rework. I did work with John Chisum of Nashville Christian Songwriters on some of the lyrics and my producer Bryant Urich really pulled the song together.
Q: What is the message of your music? And what are your goals as an artist?
A: The message of my music is one of hope, redemption, and the transformative power of God’s love and grace. Through my lyrics, I share personal stories of struggle, salvation, and gratitude, aiming to inspire and uplift listeners by reminding them that no matter where they are in life, God is always present, offering forgiveness, strength, and a path to renewal. I want my music to encourage people to trust in God’s plan, find peace in His presence, and live a life of faith and purpose.
B: My goal is to use my music to connect with people facing life’s challenges. My songs, inspired by real-life experiences, offer reassurance and hope, reminding us that it’s okay to struggle and that we can emerge stronger on the other side. My music aims to introduce listeners to Jesus, rekindle their faith, or deepen their belief in Him as our Savior. Each song is a testament to the transformative power of faith and the strength found in Jesus. The goal is to do this on a large scale
Q: Who is your dream artist to collaborate with? (dead or alive)
A: Right now, it would be Ben Fuller. His lyrics are top notch and he truly performs with all the focus being on God.
Q: What is your advice for people interested in pursuing music as a career or for those trying to enter the industry?
A: Be very thick-skinned. Do not expect the doors to just come flying open and boom you have made it (first you need to determine what “made it” means to you). You have to work extremely hard and be able to fit through the times when you want to give up. In my case, I rely on God and prayer to get me through the tough times and find inspiration. This journey is not for everyone and if you are a Christian artist, make sure this is what God wants you to do.
Q: If you could go back in time and give a younger you some words of wisdom, what would they be?
A: In my younger years, I chased the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle, and it nearly cost me everything—my marriage, my relationship with my kids, and so much more. When you step into this industry, there are countless paths you can take, and it’s alarmingly easy to get pulled down the wrong ones if you’re not careful. It happens so quickly that you don’t even realize what’s happening until it feels like it’s too late. My advice? Take the time to do your research, understand what you’re truly aiming for, and stay laser- focused on that goal. Don’t let anything distract you from the path you know you’re meant to walk.
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