Interview: Gareth Cartwright
Gareth Cartwright, a husband, dad, school teacher, worship leader and songwriter, has released his new track 'I AM Coming Soon'. Louder Than The Music spoke with Gareth to find out more about his background and his plans to record more music next year.
For those who haven't heard of you before, can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got involved in making music?
I really don’t enjoy talking about this kind of stuff much because I’m not a me-centric person. Everything I’m doing is in obedience to the Holy Spirit. I’m not a big music person, so whilst I do listen to music, I’m more likely to be listening to a preach or teaching series on something than broadening my music horizon. I believe music is made for worship and that lyrics are important; this is why I would struggle to listen to a lot of mainstream stuff, it’s just meaningless nonsense. I analyse lyrics and decide whether it’s worth listening to. Having said that, if it sounds good, there is a time and place for most forms of music. I learnt to play drums and guitar in my teens. Myself and a couple of friends used to lead praise and worship for the kids in the Church we grew up in. Later, I became a worship leader and then family life took over. I had a wife and three children. My wife tragically lost a battle with cancer when our children were 3, 5 and 7 respectively and everything changed. I re-married and now have seven children. God has been so good to me. A friend of mine came and asked me to get back involved with the music team at Church; I didn’t want to, but the Holy Spirit immediately said ‘yes!’. I knew it was going to be different to my previous experience. Now I’m writing for today’s world.
Tell us about your new single 'I AM Coming Soon' and what the inspiration behind it was?
‘I AM Coming Soon' emerged as a divine dialogue, a response to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. It encapsulates the anticipation of a new chapter, resonating with the message of hope found in scripture. Look at the world. I have studied the Olivet discourse in the gospels, the books of Revelation, Daniel, Ezekiel and for the last 3-4 years God has been revealing to me how close we are to the times spoken of in these books. Everything is about to change dramatically; what a time to be alive.
Do you have any plans to release more music in the near future?
Yes. I have two songs we’re planning to record in the new year and they are going to be different to what I’ve already recorded. One is a beautiful worship track called ‘The Way, The Truth, The Life’ which includes a full gospel choir. The other is a heavier, darker toned song for the people of the tribulation which is going to be called ‘Under The Skin’. Two very exciting tracks for different reasons.
What message would you like people to take from your music?
There really is a God who loves you. Everything you think you know is likely going to be turned upside down, and you need to get to know Jesus; he completes us and makes everything right. Don’t fear anything, but accept him as Lord and Saviour and give your heart to him; he changes everything for good.
How would you describe your style of music and what are your influences?
My music is a reflection of my journey - a blend of worship, heavier tones, and a prophetic heartbeat. Influenced by life's ebbs, the soundscape echoes my deep connection to faith and my songs have signature moments rooted in rock and being authentic.
If you could work with any songwriter, who would it be and why?
Easy. Jeremy Riddle. I love his heart and his sound. He has a big family like me and we’re about the same age; I think we’d get on.
How would you define success in your career as an artist?
Success, to me, is seeing hearts stirred and lives impacted through obedience. It's about connection with the Holy Spirit.
What is your favourite album of all time?
Vice Verses, Switchfoot. A regular sound in my car.
You're stuck on an island, it's hot, you only have enough battery life left to listen to one song on your phone. What track is it?
I wouldn’t. I’d message my wife to tell her where I was and how much I loved her.
What does the next year hold for you?
I’ll be making more music for sure, but it’s 2024 - anything can happen! Will the Church even be here? We’re the salt of the earth that preserves and the light of the world, bringing truth to mankind. Stay salty, we preserve until we’re removed. The Bridegroom is coming for the Bride, keep oil in your lamp and be found ready.
