Ben Garrett
Ben’s a singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist getting after his dreams from Nashville, TN.
No matter what life brings his way, Ben frames it all with faith and continues to take steps forward. Through the highs and lows of pursuing his dreams, Ben’s learned to lean into God, make the most of where he’s at, and to always keep showing up. Through consistency, courage, and a massive amount of grit, Ben’s become a sought after writer, producer, and worship leader. Ben’s currently working on a solo project, using every bit of his creativity to make a positive difference in the world.
What dream are you currently turning into reality?
Ever since I was around 11 years old, I’ve known exactly what I wanted to do - Be a songwriter and musician. For better or worse, I don’t think I quite understood what that was going to look like, but the calling was indeed on me. I’ve been sprinting towards that dream ever since!
When did you first realize you discovered your dream?
I realized my dream somewhere between Tom Petty’s “Full Moon Fever” (1989) and the Newsboys “Step Up The Microphone” (1998). No joke! The calling probably looked like a possession to my friends and family, as I was pretty tunnel vision focused. I’m thankful for great mentors that helped me figure out my craft and certainly helped pour gasoline on my fire.
How does your faith go hand in hand with pursuing your dream?
My faith and dream are so intrinsically intertwined. As much as I’ve mistakenly tried to separate them, they are woven together. If it weren’t for Bible camp and the church, I’m really not sure where I’d be or what I’d be doing.
I met the Lord at camp and the vehicle in which I experienced Him was music. When I ended up at a youth group in Iowa around 6th grade, I couldn’t believe they were singing similar songs and knew who a few of my favorite bands were (I had no idea that they were Christian bands).
All throughout my teenage years, the church quite literally built me up to follow my dreams, and actually helped me work on my craft as a singer, writer, and band leader. What a total gift! At this point, my faith has deepened. I've cut out a lot of the cultural Christianity that seemed to get in front of the Gospel and have lived some interesting life to say the least. I’ve played just as many bars and taverns as churches and fellowship halls, and I’m thankful I’ve clung to Jesus throughout it all.
What’s one or two practical steps you take to keep moving forward?
On a day to day front, I think firstly my habit is simply “showing up” - Whether in an artistic or admin capacity. As a 3 wing 4 on the Enneagram I’m constantly striving to achieve. But, the most life-giving thing has been taking time to chat with my wife, friends, and creatives about dreams, musing, and how to best make them happen. Life's better with a community, that’s for sure…and that’s coming from a reluctant lone wolf!
What encouragement would you share with someone who’s going after their dream?
At this point in my life, I’ve followed my dream for nearly 20 years, and I’ve been faithful to that 11 year old’s dream. Throughout the years, I’ve learned how important it is to know the correct time to pivot and be flexible.
For any fellow achievers, I would encourage you to take time to breathe. The best work and progress usually happens after you’ve allowed yourself to be human and actually rest. My wife, Rachel, helps me come back down to earth from time to time, and we have the sweetest times just enjoying our life.
Taking time away from the hustle leads to a healthier perspective, and the bi-product tends to be way more honoring to your dream.