We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jonathan Duff a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Jonathan, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What were some of the most unexpected problems you’ve faced in your career and how did you resolve those issues?

I would say for sure, things going wrong on stage. Playing a concert is one of the most wonderful experiences ever. But things aren’t always going to go as planned. On my latest Christmas Tour, it felt like every night something else would go wrong. Whether in ears (which I use to hear myself) randomly cutting out. Or confidence monitors, or my voice going. Learning to keep your cool and rely on your instincts is one of the most crucial parts of playing. No matter what situation you face on stage. You should just breathe in and know at the end of the day it doesn’t really matter. I’ve heard it said fans are there to see you, mistakes and all. Sometimes you gotta laugh it off and push through.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I work as a songwriter/worship leader for the worship industry and the church. I grew up in a church where I would lead worship for my youth group for years. Fell in love with playing and worshiping God. After highschool I attended a music college out in Costa Mesa where I started working on my heart with God. The heart is the most important part of worship. For all songs flow out of a relationship with The Lord. Through family connections and social media. I started getting more involved into the Worship industry after college. Led multiple church worship tours across the country. Written and released multiple worship songs as well as co write with very influential writers in the worship industry. My God has watched over me and provided for me in music. Grateful for Him and the doors He opens.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

I tell this to anyone starting as a worship leader or writer for the church. The most important part of your job is to work on your relationship with Jesus. Cultivate it, grow it, and deepen it. Through time spent with Him. Talent and natural skills will only take you so far. The Lord directs the steps of man, it says in the Bible. He is the one who gives the songs to the creatives. For the purpose of growing and blessing His church. He is the tree from which all fruit is grown. If you want your songs to be blessed and used abundantly. You need to seek Him above it all. Your songs should reflect your love for your God. I spent a lot of time trying to write my way into the industry. But the moment it became about blessing Jesus. Everything started happening. Wish I put Him first, at the beginning, rather than having to learn the hard way.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

Getting to be a part of what Jesus is doing in so many lives. When I hear stories from people who listen to my music. Telling me it helped restore their faith in God. Or helped deepen their relationship with Him. That is the most rewarding and last joy I could ask for.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonathanduff_worship?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Other: @Jonathanduff_worship – Instagram

Image Credits

Phot Credits: Jack Hartin, Robbie Ralph, Paul Casas, Cecilia Mia.