Austin Michael Harris on Gospel Music, Songwriting & Faith
Musician Austin Michael Harris shares his inspiring journey in an engaging interview, shaped by a vibrant upbringing in a household filled with music. Growing up with nightly family worship instilled in him a deep love for melody and harmony.
Influenced by artists like Kirk Franklin and Amy Grant, Harris began songwriting in university, crafting a unique blend of gospel and contemporary Christian music. His creative process values patience, life experiences, and the stories of others as inspiration for healing music.
Looking ahead, he hopes to collaborate with diverse artists, release new recordings, and foster community worship experiences—driven by the belief that his best song is yet to come. The interview concludes with a heartfelt performance, reflecting themes of God’s love and grace.
January 01, 2024
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Musician Austin Michael Harris shares his inspiring journey in an engaging interview, shaped by a vibrant upbringing in a household filled with music. Growing up with nightly family worship instilled in him a deep love for melody and harmony.
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Chapter 1: Musical Upbringing and Influences
Austin Michael Harris reflects on his early exposure to music, growing up in a household of musicians where nightly family worship shaped his love for melody and harmony. He shares a pivotal church performance that deepened his passion for worship and discusses how hearing Kirk Franklin’s music in 1992 expanded his musical perspective. Listeners will also hear about the artists who influenced him—ranging from Amy Grant to Fred Hammond—and his belief that music is a universal language that can inspire and uplift.
Chapter 2: Songwriting Journey
Harris takes us through his evolution as a songwriter, starting with his university years in Alabama, where he initially wrote Black gospel songs. He shares the journey behind his first full worship project, released in 2015 after three years of work with producer Brad Dugas. He also discusses his musical style, which blends CCM, gospel, bluegrass, jazz, and rock, and how his latest single, We All Bleed Red, tackles themes of division and unity in today’s world.
Chapter 3: Creative Wisdom and Lessons
Harris offers insights into the creative process, emphasizing patience, resilience, and the role of life experiences in shaping meaningful music. He speaks candidly about the financial investment required in music production and the importance of listening to people’s stories for inspiration. He also touches on the natural cycles of creativity, encouraging artists to embrace both productive seasons and periods of rest.
Chapter 4: Future Plans and Aspirations
Harris shares an exciting glimpse into his future projects, including upcoming worship experiences in Guelph, a new record inspired by real-life stories, and plans for video production. He also discusses potential touring opportunities and his belief that his best song is yet to come. Aspiring creatives will find encouragement as he highlights the value of starting small and staying committed to their craft.
Chapter 5: Musical Performance
Closing the interview with a heartfelt performance, Harris delivers a song centered on the cross, celebrating God’s love, grace, and sacrifice. The emotional refrain—"For the rest of my days, Your love will be my anthem"—leaves a lasting impression, encapsulating his mission to create music that resonates with faith and devotion.
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