10 Questions with ... Natalie Grant

NAME:Natalie Grant TITLE:Musician WEB:www.nataliegrant.com

Label:
Curb Records

Discography:
Relentless (February 12, 2008)
Believe (2005)
Awaken (2005)
Worship With Natalie Grant and Friends (Integrity Music, 2004)
Deeper Life (2003)
Stronger (2001)
Natalie Grant (Benson, 1999)

1) Can you offer a brief journey of your musical career thus far from your perspective: where you started singing and how you connected with Curb?

I've been singing since I was very little. Never thought I would do it professionally, but then a group called Truth (the Christian version of Menudo) came to my home church and I auditioned for them. I made it and traveled for the next two years doing 330 concerts a year for $50/week. I barely survived that; it was Christian music boot camp for sure. But through that experience, I realized that this is what I was created to do, and so I moved to Nashville and got my first record deal 11 months later. That company went out of business, so I signed a second deal. That company went out of business. Noticing a pattern here? I guess third time really is the charm, because then I signed to Curb. I am actually grateful for the process and the long road I have traveled because it developed my character and gave me a lot to write songs about.

2) What is the main message that you hope to share with audiences through the new album "Relentless"?

Draw near to God and he will draw near to you. And as he loves you with an unfailing love and gives you an enduring hope, love others with the love you have received.

3) What is the story behind the single "In Better Hands"?

A 6-year-old boy named Ethan was at his grandparents' farm in Franklin, TN, for Thanksgiving 2006. They were having a family bonfire and a spark caught Ethan's sweater vest on fire, burning the majority of his face and body. He lived but is terribly scarred from the accident. He will have a lot of questions in his life. Why would God keep him alive when he is so disfigured? This song was written for him and is a reminder to all of us that we are carried in the arms of the almighty God. Many of us are scarred, not on the outside, but on the secret places of our hearts and just like God has a divine purpose and plan for Ethan, he does for each one of us. The journey is not easy, but easier, knowing that we are in his hands.

4) Why is this lifestyle (recording, singing, traveling) one that you're willing to follow?

I believe we are each created for a specific purpose, a destiny, a calling. This lifestyle is my calling. Sure, it's fun. I get to travel and meet all sorts of people and never have to have a real job! [Smile] But seriously, I believe that the songs I sing have the power to change lives because they contain the truth about Jesus.

5) Tell us your funniest radio experience thus far. (We can change the names of the innocent or guilty parties.)

So, I'm married to a very good-looking man. His name is Bernie and a couple of years ago he came with me to a radio visit in Houston. When we walked in, the DJs said, "Whoa! Well, hello Malibu Bernie." They called him Malibu Bernie rather than Malibu Barbie. It just stuck and we were cracking up. All except for Bernie. I don't think he laughed much. But now every time we see those guys, they still call him Malibu Bernie. Needless to say, Bernie doesn't come to my radio interviews anymore!

6) What is your favorite song to perform live?

I love to perform a song called "So Long" because my band sounds incredible on it. It's this acoustic, vibe thing and it's pretty awesome. But then I also love to perform "Held" because it is awesome to watch the crowd. Many weep and hold on to each other. I always wonder what their story is.

7) Can you pick a favorite song from "Relentless"?

It's hard because it's like trying to pick which of your children is your favorite! But I really love "I Will Not Be Moved." The message is strong and the production rocks.

8) Imagine life without music: what might you try your hand at?

I went to school to become a teacher and I would love that. But I would also like to be a candy tester. I think that would be amazing.

9) Who has had the biggest impact on your life?

My grandfather was the first Christian in his family. Because of him, many generations will know about Jesus. He was a minister for 52 years and he was always very inspiring to me. I also have to say my husband. I have never met anyone that has had a negative thing to say about Bernie. He is genuine, considerate and authentic. I so married up.

10) Can you give us a quick glimpse at what twins Grace and Isabella are getting into nowadays?

Everything. And they crawl in opposite directions I just have to go after the one who is closest to danger!

1) Do you have a dream artist to record with (any genre)?

Alicia Keyes

2) Favorite city to visit:

New York

3) Favorite road meal:

Gotta have In-N-Out when in California!