Mark Barlow

Art and faith remain

“It’s been Your mercy, every day. You always find me even when I’m running away.”

Mark Barlow is led by one thing—a strong, unwavering call to worship. More accurately he feels called “to help people experience God for who He really is—to see Jesus more clearly.”

His records spotlight passionate lyrics like “Every day, He lights my life with brightness and glory” and “You've captured my heart in ways I didn't know I could be captured”. Barlow’s faith is evident in every melodic line.

Like many modern-day soul artists, Barlow grew up on a pew, clapping along to gospel hymns and Falling asleep in 3 hour church services. He dipped his toe into the world of music at a young age, supported by his ministry-focused parents.

“I can’t separate my passion from where I come from,” he told me over a Zoom call, a smile stretching from ear to ear—his love for music and Christ evident in his expression. “Most of what I do comes from years of quality time spent at my piano with Jesus.”

At times, Barlow wouldn’t have categorized himself as a Christian artist.

“I just don’t feel boxed in as someone who only ever releases “Christian” music. I want to always live in the freedom to be fully myself in both faith-centered songs and more personal or creative expressions too,” he said.

According to Barlow, a career writing worship songs was a bit of a no-brainer. He saw early success with his first few albums: Soul Hymns, released in 2019, and Hymns and Soul, released in 2021. Over the years, he’s also shared a handful of singles and EPs, including one of his chart-toppers, “Matthew 6”, made in collaboration with Tekoa. But his 2019 album really found a place in 2020.

“My career really seemed to establish itself then because of how much music was a place of solace for millions around the world,” Barlow said.

When much of the world was finding solace in the arts, Barlow tapped into a new demographic: minimalist bedroom soul. This niche genre differs from most mainstream religious music in its simplistic techniques, built on acoustic instruments, electronic synthesizers, and drum machines. Amidst a challenging global moment, Barlow found comfort in music and in a community that shared his feelings.

“Music only feels like music when it’s pointed toward togetherness,” he said. That sense of unity is at the core of his work, including his latest release, “Every Day,” which highlights the beauty of Christ’s mercies. He hints that the song will be “the first of many,” as he plans to soon release his first full-length album since 2021. Titled Looking for Water (a working title), the project will blend gospel with an ’80s worship flavor, evoking an energetic groove reminiscent of that era’s spirit.

Barlow’s newest album will revolve around returning to the source—a spiritual journey back to union in Christ.

“I felt like there was too much Christian music that focused on separation from Christ, and I want to bring it back to the union we can find in Him,” he explains. “It’s time.”

“If you’re ever nervous on stage, you’re being selfish by thinking about yourself,” “Just go love them for me”.

Throughout his creative process and leadership in worship, Barlow keeps certain principles close to heart—principles rooted in love, humility, and service. He often draws inspiration from his father’s wise words, which continue to guide him: “If you’re ever nervous on stage, you’re being selfish by thinking about yourself,” he said, remembering his dad’s instruction. “Just go love them for me.”

This simple yet profound advice underscores Barlow’s approach to music and ministry—placing others above himself and pointing them toward Christ through authentic expression. Whether on stage or in daily life, Barlow strives to embody that selfless love, fostering unity and connection in Christ. For Barlow, ministry remains central to his life, even beyond formal titles.

“My pastor is a voice of influence in my life; he encouraged me to pass on leadership roles and focus on my career,” he shares. “I still carry the same mission, even though I’m not in formal ministry.”

Barlow shared that he aims to live with the same posture of service and purpose as those in ministry—pointing others toward Christ through whatever gifts are accessible to them.

“I never wanted to be a ‘Christian artist’ by definition; I just wanted to be who I am and let that carry through in my music,” he said.

With Looking for Water, Barlow is poised to do just that—sharing his authentic self and spreading a message of love, unity, and spiritual renewal.

The album is set to be released this Fall, with singles dropping throughout the summer.