Eddy Mann – Interview

Michael January 12, 2024 0

Award-winning singer-songwriter Eddy Mann is back with a powerful new single,
“Hallelujah.” The track is the second single to be released from his latest album,
“Chapel Songs,” is a follow-up to his #1 UK iTunes chart single, “Hope of the
World.” This one also topped that same chart.
Mann, who hails from Philadelphia, is known for his unique blend of cultural and
spiritual influences that shine through in his music. With a career spanning over
20 albums, Mann’s music has touched the hearts of audiences all over the world.
His hit single, “The Consequence,” was a Top 10 Christian Music Weekly radio hit!

In Mann’s words, “I’m driven to write, to record, and to perform by the opportunity
to bring a smile, a light, or just a moment of peace to someone in need. That’s why I get up each day, that’s my part to play in this story, and that’s why I’ll continue to write about my experiences getting through each day.” Eddy took some time to answer a few questions in this exclusive interview…

Can you tell us a little about your musical journey and how you got started as a singer-songwriter?

If you were to connect the dots from my childhood to this date in time, it would show a very natural smooth progression. I was born into a very supportive family that was spiritually driven.

I sang as a child, progressed to an instrument (guitar) in my early teens, found out my sweet spot was writing songs in my late teens, and then in my early thirties experienced an epiphany (as a professional musician) when I realized that I should have been using my gift to further God’s Kingdom.
Your latest single, “Hallelujah,” is inspired by the book of Revelation. Can you share with us your creative process in writing this song? In January of last year, my wife and I decided to do a deep dive into the book of Revelation.

Neither of us had done so before, so we decided to walk through it together. For forty days I wrote continuously as we journeyed along. In chapter nineteen the word Hallelujah (Praise the Lord) appears for the first time in scripture.

It’s a very climactic moment in the Bible, and I found myself wanting to respond in song. You have released over 20 albums in your career. How do you keep your music fresh and continue to evolve as an artist? Our life with Jesus is an ongoing conversation.

It continues daily through whatever we’re living through. It’s not static, it’s evolving, or at least it should be. It’s a journey that entails traveling and moving forward, and so as I wander from day to day I tend to capture my thoughts, both joys and concerns, in written word and music …and since no two days are ever alike, I find new inspiration in the living. What has been your most memorable moment as a musician so far?

This is a very hard question to answer because God is working continually to use our
work in the ways that he sees fit, and often we don’t get to witness the results of
our efforts. But one moment that stands out for me is a rather personal one.

As my mother was in the waning hours of her hospice time, she shared with me that
a song that I had written was what was bringing her comfort. It was the best
moment that I won’t ever forget.
Your music often reflects your cultural and spiritual roots. Can you tell us how these influences shape your music?

My parents exposed me to a pretty expansive view of the world. I listened to all kinds of music and gravitated to all things creative even at a very young age.

And while this was happening I was in church every weekend with the seeds of faith being planted. This background is and always will be a part of the fabric of my life, and it’s only natural that it’s exposed when I’m honest in my writing. Your hit single, “The Consequence,” was a Top 10 Christian Music Weekly radio hit.

Did you expect such a positive response to the song?

No, I work rather hard at trying to have realistic expectations with my work. Only God knows for sure how, when, and where he’ll use it …if he uses it at all.

I believe that there are some songs and or poems that only I need to hear. Like a cleansing of sorts, a cathartic experience. Now would I love for the whole world to be touched by a song, well of course!
How do you balance your faith and personal beliefs with the music
industry and mainstream audience?

I’m an independent singer-songwriter which at its core means that nobody in this world owns me or my work. I get to decide all things creative. I strive each day to hear and to follow the Spirit’s leading. When I get it right, all’s good. When I don’t, it’s a learning experience that’s not to be repeated.
What can fans expect from your album, “Chapel Songs”?

It’s my prayer that anyone listening to the “Chapel Songs” album would experience a personal time of worship, reflection, and conversation with God.

It was written with a small church in mind, and for those worship leaders (or individuals) who were looking for a simple way to spend some quality time with their Maker.
You have been based in Philadelphia for most of your career. How has the
city influenced your music?

I think the environment contributes to a person’s view of the world. So growing up near and about a large city made for some wonderful opportunities as a young and developing creative. There’s no doubt that the music scene I grew up in has embedded its roots in me. I feel fortunate about that.
What advice do you have for aspiring Christian musicians and songwriters?

My advice would be to develop your voice, and your musical style, and be bold about it. Don’t worry about fitting in. God created you to be an individual, and it’s to that purpose that he wants you to contribute throughout your life.
www.eddymann.com