185: Drew Holcomb and Audrey Assad: Vulnerable Art
Dec 5, 2024
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Drew Holcomb, a celebrated Americana musician, and Audrey Assad, an acclaimed singer-songwriter from the Christian music sphere, delve into the beauty of vulnerability in their art. Drew reflects on his journey through loss and the pressures of fame, sharing how grief shapes creativity. Audrey opens up about her quest for authenticity, addressing personal traumas that influenced her music. Together, they explore the healing power of communal singing and the transformation of doubt into wonder, creating a rich dialogue on art's emotional essence.
Drew Holcomb highlights the unpredictable nature of success in music, emphasizing that hard work and humility are essential for navigating its challenges.
Audrey Assad encourages embracing doubt with curiosity, transforming personal experiences into music that promotes connection and shared understanding within communities.
Deep dives
The Journey of Hard Work and Humility
Drew Holcomb emphasizes the significance of hard work and the unpredictability of success in the music industry. He reflects on how years of dedication have shaped his career, often marked by moments of both discouragement and unexpected fortune. Holcomb credits his supportive circle, including long-time collaborators, for helping him navigate the challenges faced during his journey. This blend of practical dreaming and humility has been essential in managing the highs and lows of a musical career.
Spiritual Reflections in Music
Drew Holcomb connects his academic background in theology and history to his songwriting, viewing popular music as a form of spiritual expression. He believes that narratives from the past inform contemporary music and recognizes the deep ties between sacred and secular music. This perspective enables him to write lyrics that resonate with both personal and collective experiences, illustrating the profound connection between art and the exploration of spiritual themes. By intertwining his theological insights with songwriting, he invites listeners into a reflective journey of belief and doubt.
Navigating Doubt and Authenticity
Audrey Assad shares her journey of embracing doubt as a pathway to wonder rather than fear. She believes that doubt, when approached with curiosity, can lead to a richer understanding of faith and life. Assad reflects on her past struggles within the Christian community and the importance of honest dialogue about belief and doubt. By transforming her experiences into music, she encourages others to engage with their uncertainties, promoting a sense of shared humanity in the face of personal and communal challenges.
The Healing Power of Collective Singing
Audrey Assad highlights the therapeutic benefits of communal singing, describing it as a deeply nourishing practice that fosters connection and healing. She emphasizes the emotional and psychological effects of singing together, particularly in religious contexts, where it can create a sense of belonging and soothe collective trauma. This act of blending voices not only strengthens community bonds but also helps individuals process their experiences and emotions. Assad's belief in the power of music reinforces the idea that shared artistic expressions can serve as a vital source of comfort and unity.
“Sometimes artists have to take a chance and be vulnerable.”
Drew Holcomb and Audrey Assad are two such artists, whose brilliance is in large part due to their vulnerability.
Drew was once heralded by Rolling Stone as “one of Americana’s most popular stars,” and yet he is quick to note that “the human heart was not built for notoriety.” He describes the complex road he took to full-time artistry, his relationship with his fans, the tragic loss of his brother, and more.
Audrey found success in the Christian music industry, until her quest for authenticity and truth led her in a new direction. She shares her story, speaking honestly about traumas and doubts that brought her to where she is now.
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