Upcoming singer/songwriter Taylor Tripodi, pronounced Tripo-oh-dee, is on a mission: to help others encounter the truth, goodness, and beauty of Jesus Christ. And, she's on her way to fulfilling that mission. She recently released her EP, Awakening. And, people are taking notice.
Taylor, from Cleveland, Ohio, was born into a big family. She says: "Can you believe it? I just love being a part of a big family. Never a dull moment." Taylor draws much of her inspiration from her family. I had a chance to connect with Taylor to talk about that inspiration, her EP, her music, and her career.
Your music is incredibly beautiful and worshipful. What are your inspirations?
With every season of my life come new inspirations. Honestly, everything from the questions and struggles I have, to the prayers I'm praying, to the books I'm reading and to the people I'm listening to, they all inspire me. I, of course, hope that the Holy Spirit is a part of everything I do. I want all that I write to be inspired by His spirit. And, in turn, I want my music to also inspire others with the Spirit of God.
As far as people and groups in music, there is no seeming continuity with this one. It's all over the board. Everything from Bethel Music to Kacey Musgraves, from Audrey Assad to Maren Morris inspire me. I just love listening to all kinds of music, and taking inspirations from sounds, lyrics, and personalities to the table when I write. I'm also incredibly inspired by my friends and other artists that I work with. Their hard work pushes me forward and inspires me to grow and create with even more depth.
What's one of your favorite songs from the new EP? Talk about it.
My favorite songs change over time. But, right now, I really love "The Dark is Not Your Home." It's so declarative and doesn't question who God is or what He can do, which so often I tend to do. It's a song of belief and certainty: that God will always fight for us. It's a message of hope; we were not made for the darkness. Jesus wants to call our name into our darkest abyss and bring us back to life. Be encouraged: the devil fleas at the words of Jesus. Listen for Him calling your name today.
You graduated with a degree in Catechetics. What is that exactly?
So glad you asked. It comes from the Greek word, "katekhesis," which means "to teach by word of mouth." More specifically, in this case, to give testimony to the truth and love of Jesus Christ. I was certain I wanted to do music in some way when I was in college. But, I didn't know what that looked like at first. So, I decided to get my degree in something I loved talking about: Jesus.
Catechesis is based in theology, which was also my other major. But, catechesis is specific to teaching about who Jesus is and how to have a personal relationship with Him (the best, right?). I took those degrees and became a youth minister for a few years after graduating. Now, I also put those skills to use in leading worship and writing Christian music. See, God works all things for our good.
You come from a large family, being the oldest of nine. What are some of the best life lessons you've learned from growing up in a larger family?
My family and I are so close. And, in many ways, I attribute the faith that I have today to them. They have taught me how to love, and, in the most beautiful way, they have shown me, through their example, how to take pain, and turn it into purpose. My brother died at the age of 3. And, it's really because of my parent's choice to trust in God through all of it that I have the faith I do today. I have seen God work in the bad just as much as He does in the good: just look at His Son on the cross. No cross comes without a victory when we trust in God. I'm so grateful to see God's grace in our family because of the cross.
Where would you like to see your music ministry go in the future?
Only where Jesus leads first. This is something I've been coming to understand and surrender more recently in my life. Do I have dreams and goals? You bet (lots, at that). But, I don't want to go anywhere Jesus doesn't want me. But, of course, God wants me to dream big as well. So, I hope someday to tour with Matt Maher, sing for the pope, co-produce my own album, and get signed to my favorite record label: Integrity Music.
What are some of your favorite lyrics from the new EP?
"Let my words be few/As I stand in awe of you/Every word falls short." These words are from the song, "Stand in Awe." I started writing this song before the Lord's presence when I was praying. I felt this need to "say all the right things" and "pray all the right prayers." But, I think sometimes, we so often forget our need to "be still." We don't have to have all the words. We need only be still and stand in wonder before our God. And, He will meet us right where we are, no matter what.
How can we be praying for you?
I love this. Thank you. I would love prayers for me to have an even deeper surrender to God's will. That I will remain His humble servant in all things. I would also like prayers for all those who listen to my music. And, that the Holy Spirit will give them a fresh anointing through this music. Again, thank you.
Kevin McNeese started NRT in 2002 and has worked in the industry since 1999 in one form or another. He has been a fan of Christian music since 1991.
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