Interview: Howard Gripp
Rising Christian rock artist Howard Gripp talks to Louder Than The Music about his new EP, 'Rescued Redeemed Forgiven', and how his upbringing shaped his future in making music. Read on to find out his plans for even more new music next year!
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?
I’m a longtime rock musician who’s now transitioned to Christian CCM/Rock. I grew up immersed in church life; my mom sang in the choir, played the pipe organ, and worked in the church office, so I spent countless hours there, especially during summers. I picked up the drums around age 6 and played my first gig as a drummer at 16. At 17, I went all-in on my rock dreams, even releasing a CD in the late ’90s and stepping up as lead singer to promote it.
A few years ago, I felt God calling me to use my music in a new way-to honor Him. After being inspired by Ben Fuller at Lifest in Oshkosh, WI, in July 2023, I wrote my first Christian CCM/Rock song, marking the beginning of an incredible new chapter. Since then, I’ve released a 6-song EP, filmed my first Christian music video for "Hello It’s Me," performed at the Tobin Center in San Antonio, TX as a Top 5 finalist in the You God’s Music competition, and held an EP release concert at my home church for over 200 people. God is moving in incredible ways, and I’m excited to see where He leads me next on this journey.
Tell us about your new EP 'Rescued Redeemed Forgiven' and what the inspiration behind it was?
The EP features six songs centered on salvation and the profound trust I’ve found in Jesus in every part of my life. The title track, Rescued Redeemed Forgiven, is the heart of the EP, tying together all the themes within. Inspired by my faith journey-from early faith to a time of going my own way, and ultimately returning to God-the EP reflects how being rescued, redeemed, and forgiven has transformed my life over the past few years. Each song speaks to the powerful ways God has led me and renewed my faith.
Which is your favorite track on the album and why?
That’s a tough choice because I really love them all, but Fearless is probably the standout track on the EP. It’s the one my marketing company, NRT Music, chose to focus on and release to radio. Fearless celebrates the incredible strength found in Jesus through life’s toughest moments. With its uplifting lyrics and powerful melody, the song captures the journey of overcoming challenges with unshakeable faith. Its empowering message encourages listeners to trust in Jesus to conquer fear and adversity, inspiring courage and resilience through a relationship with Him.
What message would you like people to take from your music?
We’re not alone. We all face struggles, some darker than others, and God grants us free will to navigate our paths. Music is woven into life’s deepest moments-it can bring back childhood memories, first dates, heartaches, or the loss of a loved one. My hope is that my music touches people in ways that help them cope when life is hard and rejoice when it’s good. I want each song to remind listeners they’re not alone in their struggles and that others have walked similar paths.
How would you describe your style of music and what are your influences?
I feel I'm shaping a distinctive style that bridges Christian CCM and rock, influenced by artists like Ben Fuller, Casting Crowns, Matthew West, Phil Wickham, Jeremy Camp, Crowder, and more. It’s exciting that my music also resonates with country fans, but staying rooted in the rock realm feels most natural for me and helps my sound stand out, especially in the Christian music world. I think there is a gap between Christian CCM and Christian hard rock music and that is the area I am trying to focus on.
If you could work with any songwriter, who would it be and why?
I would love to work with Ben Fuller. I feel God used him as a vessel to inspire me to start writing Christian music. Ben is genuine, humble, and honest, and his lyrics carry such powerful messages. When he performs, he does it to honor God, not to draw attention to himself, and that sincerity really resonates with me.
How would you define success in your career as an artist?
For me, success in my career would mean doing smaller tours and recording music that genuinely resonates with people, helping them through their tough times. I’d love to build a strong Christian music ministry that reaches people in real, day-to-day struggles, whether that’s on a big stage or in a coffee shop. My goal is to create music that introduces people to Jesus, brings them back to Him, or strengthens their faith. I want my songs to reflect the strength only He can provide, in both good times and dark moments-and maybe even be the reason someone finds hope.
What is your favorite album of all time?
This takes me back to my rock n’ roll days with Styx’s The Grand Illusion. So many great songs, and Styx really influenced my music back then. These days, I don’t have a specific favorite album, but I do have a favorite genre-I’m really into Christian Adult Contemporary. I'm also a big fan of Skillet, so my music tastes cover a wide range. Honestly, I just love music!
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?
"Fearless" is my song, and I chose it because of the strength and encouragement it brings me. The song celebrates the profound power we find in Jesus, especially during life’s challenges. With uplifting lyrics and powerful melodies, it reflects a journey of overcoming adversity through unwavering faith. It carries an empowering message of trusting in Jesus to conquer fear, inspiring listeners to find courage and resilience through their relationship with Him.
What does the next year hold for you?
In January 2025, I'll be back in the studio to work on my second EP. I'm also hoping to create another music video and perform at Christian music festivals across the country. One of my big dreams is to play a stage at Lifest, near my hometown. I’m looking forward to collaborating and recording with some of the artists I’ve connected with over the past year, and a future touring schedule is also on my horizon.
