Interview: Josh Grove
Josh Grove is a 15-year-old Christian singer/songwriter from Michigan who has just released his brand new single, 'One True Savior'. Louder Than The Music chatted with Josh to find out how it all began and what the inspiration behind his music is.
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?
Sure! Well, I’m a 15-year-old Christian singer/songwriter from Sturgis, Michigan. It seems like music has always been a part of my life. My grandfather was the leader of a long running Gospel Bluegrass group, so we would often watch them play up on stages at churches or festivals. I started off learning how to play piano and violin. I then started to become more active in my youth group and felt a calling to help on the Youth Worship team. So, I started to learn how to play guitar. In fact, my first job was detasseling during the Summer, and I used the money I earned to buy my first guitar. I started writing music last year and had the opportunity to get it recorded. I worked with an amazing producer out of Texas, Eric Haley, who really grasped the feel that I wanted in “One True Savior”. It’s been an exciting experience, and I’m looking forward to creating more music!
Tell us about your new single 'One True Savior' and what the inspiration behind it was?
I think sometimes there’s a belief that if you are a Christian, then everyday will just be a joyous occasion. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. As Christians, we are often attacked by Satan. One area of attack that occurs is in our minds. We can get discouraged, feeling down and out. We start to believe all of the lies that the devil likes to use. Because he knows that many times, we can be less productive for God when we are in our lows. This song acknowledges that there are times when we feel those lows. But we can often combat those lies by remembering, believing and proclaiming God’s truth. Those truths are that He loved us so much that Jesus died on the cross for us. That we are saved, claimed, wanted and loved by the only One True Savior, Jesus. And we can focus and celebrate on those truths.
Do you have any plans to release more music in the near future?
Yes, in fact I’m working on two new singles at the moment. One is called “REVERSE” and it will have a similar style and feel as “One True Savior”. The other is a new worship song that I’ve written called “Holy Flame”.
What message would you like people to take from your music?
Simply, the truth and love of God. I’ve experienced His love in my own life. My desire is to share what He has done in my life along with His message of hope and salvation through the songs I write and sing.
How would you describe your style of music and what are your influences?
My style definitely has a Christian Rock vibe to it, but I love Worship music too, so there will be both going on in my songs. Other bands and musicians that are an influence to me are Phil Wickham, Brandon Lake, Seph Schlueter, SEU Worship and Josiah Queen, and many more like them. These artists produce and write music that is passionate about Christ. You can feel their love and devotion in how they sing, and what they sing.
If you could work with any songwriter, who would it be and why?
It would have to be Brandon Lake. He and his music have been such an inspiration to me. I would love the opportunity to collab with him some day!
How would you define success in your career as an artist?
It’s definitely not about fame or fortune. If I can use my gifts and talents to help others and to help spread the message of hope and salvation through Jesus, that’s my ultimate goal. My hope and prayers are that I will never grow tired of telling others about Christ.
What is your favorite album of all time?
My favorite album ever would be Brandon Lake’s “COAT OF MANY COLORS” album from 2023, this is some of the kind of music that helps inspire me to write my own, and pursue music further.
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?
LOL - Let’s go with “Can’t Steal My Joy” by Josiah Queen and Brandon Lake.
What does the next year hold for you?
Apart from writing and producing more music, I am highly involved at my local church. I also sing on the Youth Worship Team, and this Summer will be attending a week-long worship camp that I’m really looking forward to.
