Christian singer-songwriter Taylor Pride, based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, recently released the single 'Only You'. Louder Than The Music caught up with him to find out how he started out, what inspires his music, and his plans for the future.
For those who haven't heard of you before, can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got involved in making music?
Music was an integral part of my upbringing. Born and raised in Oklahoma, I began my musical journey at a young age, where my mom taught me how to play piano. Both of my sisters are musicians--the eldest is... Read MoreChristian singer-songwriter Taylor Pride, based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, recently released the single 'Only You'. Louder Than The Music caught up with him to find out how he started out, what inspires his music, and his plans for the future.
For those who haven't heard of you before, can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got involved in making music?
Music was an integral part of my upbringing. Born and raised in Oklahoma, I began my musical journey at a young age, where my mom taught me how to play piano. Both of my sisters are musicians--the eldest is a professional violinist with the Tulsa Symphony, and the second eldest is a talented jazz/worship vocalist. During my adolescent years, I started writing heartfelt songs and leading worship at my local church and high school. Once I graduated, I moved to Chicago to attend Wheaton College, where I sang alongside artists such as: Todd Dulaney, the Harlem Gospel Choir, and Casey Dubie.
Tell us about your new single 'Only You' and what the inspiration behind it was?
In recent months, we’ve seen many ways in which our world is hurting. However, that isn't the end of the story. In the midst of these trying times, “Only You” speaks of the One from whom our help truly comes. It’s a joyful declaration of our dependence on God, and our desperate need for Him to heal our broken world.
Do you have any plans to release further songs in the near future?
Yes! I will be releasing my next single “How Majestic” on Friday, September 18th, with plans to release another single later this year (2020).
What message would you like people to take from your music?
I hope my music encourages us all to re-direct our attention from our present problems and onto God’s timeless truths. Because our circumstances and feelings are fleeting, it’s important that we look to Him as our source of strength and eternal joy. No one else will satisfy us!
How would you describe your style of music and what are your influences?
I would describe my music as modern worship. Growing up, I was drawn to the spontaneity and musicality of Gospel music. Artists such as J Moss, Jaye Thomas, and Eddie James inspired me to gaze upon the beauty of God and celebrate His work. There’s something about the soulful rifts and driving beats that inspired me to dance, to think differently about my life’s purpose.
If you could work with any songwriter, who would it be and why?
Ryan Tedder--the lead singer/producer for OneRepublic. (Fun fact: He’s also from Tulsa, OK, and I think my mom used to teach him piano when he was younger!)
How would you define success in your career as an artist?
As an artist, I would imagine my definition of success would be the same as other careers: to faithfully cultivate the gifts that have been given to me. Day-by-day, I want to take the small steps towards improvement in every area of my life. As God continues to encourage me to steward these musical gifts, I find that my desire for “fame” quickly fades away. For me, it’s no longer about the crowds or the number of streams. I want to obey God and in the process, provide a musical means for others to connect to God.
What is your favorite album of all time?
That’s a great (yet difficult) question. I would have to say either: “III” by Hillsong Young and Free or “Heat of Your Gaze” by Jon Thurlow.
You're stuck on an island, it's hot, you only have enough battery life left to listen to one song on your phone. What track is it?
“Radical” by Ecclesia
What does the next year hold for you?
I plan to continue writing songs that encourage us to shift our attention onto God and His character. Stay tuned: there are some exciting projects in the works! ;)
Christian singer-songwriter Taylor Pride, based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, returns with his latest single, a live version of his song 'Far Off Father (Live)'. Available on all streaming platforms, the single follows the recent release…
Christian singer-songwriter Taylor Pride, based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, has released his new single 'How Majestic', an upbeat, celebratory song that shifts our focus from current circumstances onto God and His faithfulness. The new…
