Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Otto Gross. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Otto, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

I am definitely happy as an artist and creative. I have never really wished to have a regular job. In fact, when I think about that, it makes me more grateful to be an artist and creative because there’s so much joy, fulfillment, and happiness that I get from creating as a musician, producer, songwriter, and visionary. I often feel the desire for creativity. It brings people joy in a very unique way.

During the 2020 pandemic, I was constantly around all of my instruments for the first time since college. Even though my jobs have always been creative, I wasn’t constantly surrounded by all my instruments and creative tools to do as I pleased. In a job, you’re building someone else’s vision, dream, and dynasty. It’s fun to be creative in that way, but someone else calls the shots. If I want to make a decision, it has to be approved by someone else.

When I was home, I had the opportunity to make whatever I wanted at any time, and no one could tell me no. I had no one to stop me or give a different opinion on how I should create. My creative direction was uncapped. In my previous job, although I enjoyed it, I still had a boss who had the final say. If I wanted to create a song, my boss might say, “I don’t like this lyric” or “I don’t like that instrument.”

With this freedom, I had the opportunity to create what I wanted and make it sound the way I wanted. That’s when I started my “Otto Daily Ditty” series. Each ditty is a video or a song created using found sounds or everyday objects. So many fun things happened because of that. People continually told me how much they were inspired. Teachers started using my ditties in their classrooms, and it was just really, really fun. Being able to post and create with no one directing my vision was a fulfilling experience.

It inspires me even now to continue building and serving people in this way, rather than settling for the status quo. It has opened up various opportunities that I could share and create. I see more and more how, when an artist or creative pours their heart into something they’re passionate about, it can lead to incredible opportunities. I believe God worked through my creativity to grab people’s attention in ways that led to some very exciting opportunities. Doors have opened through much of that.

So, to answer the question: am I happy as an artist or creative? Yes, absolutely. Do I sometimes wonder what it would be like to have a regular job? I guess I wonder, but I don’t desire it. I love being creative, and I feel like that’s something that God made me to be.

Otto, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My name is Otto Gross, and I am a dedicated artist, creative, and music professional. My journey into the world of music and creativity began at a very young age. I vividly remember being just two years old, captivated by the rhythms I could create with pots and pans in my parents’ kitchen. This early passion for rhythm and music set the foundation for my lifelong dedication to the craft.

I pursued formal education in music, earning a B.A. in Professional Music with a concentration in Music Education from Berklee College of Music, where I graduated Cum Laude. My training and experience have provided me with a diverse skill set, including certifications in World Music Drumming and Orff-Schulwerk Pedagogy.

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to work in various roles that have shaped my career. As the Creative Director at QuaverEd, I was involved in creating productions for PK-8 curricula, composing and producing a range of musical pieces, and serving as an onscreen character for a children’s interactive web series. My role also included being a creative strategist for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, contributing to culturally diverse and inclusive educational content.

Currently, I serve as the Director of Worship at Christ Church Nashville, where I lead worship services and work with a diverse group of musicians, singers, and tech crew. My work here involves collaborating with church leadership to ensure our worship sessions reflect and amplify the church’s mission and vision.

I offer services in music production, education, and performance. My creative projects include producing new music videos, remixes, and my “Otto Daily Ditty” social media series, where I turn everyday objects into instruments, creating fun and engaging musical pieces.

Additionally, I have had the pleasure of collaborating with Minno, a company known for its family-friendly content, as a songwriter, arranger, performer, and video creator. This role involves creating music and videos for children, aligning with Minno’s mission to provide stories kids love and values parents trust.

What sets me apart is my ability to blend traditional musical pedagogy with innovative performance techniques. I aim to make music approachable and exciting, helping others find joy and creativity in music. My approach incorporates body percussion, found sounds, and the melodica, which helps bring out the musical potential in everyone.

I am most proud of the impact my work has had on people. From training over 10,000 teachers across multiple school districts and creating original training templates that increase teacher usage and excitement, to producing thousands of musical compositions and enhancing the quality of educational content, my contributions have been significant. Notably, my “Otto Daily Ditty” series has brought joy and creativity to many, and it’s been wonderful to see teachers using my ditties in their classrooms.

The main things I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know about me and my brand are:

1. Commitment to Excellence: Whether it’s leading worship, producing music, or creating educational content, I strive to do my best in all my endeavors.

2. Innovative Approach: I enjoy bringing a unique, creative touch to everything I do, using innovative techniques to engage and inspire.

3. Passion for Education: I believe in using music as a tool to educate, uplift, and connect people from all walks of life.

4. Diverse Skill Set: My background as a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, composer, producer, and educator allows me to offer a wide range of services and creative works.

5. Impactful Work: My work is designed to make a positive impact, whether it’s through inspiring a student, enhancing a worship service, or creating a memorable musical experience.

I believe that music is a universal language that has the power to inspire, connect, and transform. My career reflects this belief, and I am grateful to continue this journey, creating and sharing music that brings joy and fulfillment to others.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

Yes, there are numerous books, videos, essays, and other resources that have significantly impacted my management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy. Here are some of the key resources that have shaped my approach:

1. “The Millionaire Mind” by Thomas J. Stanley: This book offers deep insights into the mindset and habits of successful individuals. It has taught me the importance of disciplined financial planning and strategic thinking in achieving long-term success.

2. “Never Split the Difference” by Chris Voss: This book on negotiation has been transformative in my approach to business dealings. Voss’s strategies for high-stakes negotiations have helped me develop better communication and decision-making skills.

3. “The Millionaire Next Door” by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko: This book provides a realistic look at wealth accumulation, emphasizing frugality, smart investing, and living below your means. It has reinforced my belief in practical financial habits and long-term planning.

4. “Rich Dad Poor Dad” by Robert T. Kiyosaki: Kiyosaki’s book has been fundamental in shaping my understanding of financial literacy, investment, and the importance of building passive income streams. It has influenced my entrepreneurial mindset significantly.

5. The Holy Bible: As a cornerstone of my spiritual and moral foundation, the Bible offers timeless wisdom and guidance. Its teachings on leadership, integrity, and service have deeply influenced my approach to management and entrepreneurship.

6. “Getting Things Done” by David Allen: This book has revolutionized my approach to productivity and time management. Allen’s system for organizing tasks and projects has helped me maintain focus and efficiency in both my personal and professional life.

7. “Crucial Conversations” by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler: This book has been instrumental in improving my communication skills, particularly in high-stakes or emotionally charged situations. It has taught me how to handle difficult conversations with empathy and effectiveness.

In addition to these books, I frequently watch encouraging and inspirational videos that motivate and guide me in my entrepreneurial journey. These videos often feature thought leaders and successful entrepreneurs sharing their experiences, challenges, and strategies for success. They provide a constant source of inspiration and practical advice.

These resources (and many more) have collectively shaped my management philosophy, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy, effective communication, strategic planning, and maintaining a strong ethical foundation. They have not only influenced my professional life but also enriched my personal growth and development.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building my audience on social media began with a simple but genuine passion for creating rhythmic pieces using random objects. This creative process was something I truly enjoyed and did daily without any specific goal in mind other than the joy of creation. I started sharing these fun little pieces of rhythm under the hashtag #ottodailyditty, committing to post one thing each day. The key was that it was something easy for me to do because it was already a part of my daily routine.

The journey started on TikTok, a platform where I felt relatively unknown. This anonymity gave me the courage to post freely, without the pressure of immediate feedback or judgment. TikTok’s format allowed me to post videos quickly and easily, which fit perfectly with my daily schedule. I began filming my everyday musical experiments and uploading them without overthinking the content.

As I continued to post consistently, I started sharing the same videos on Instagram. The positive feedback and encouraging comments I received from viewers motivated me to keep going. I noticed that people genuinely enjoyed my content, and this validation helped build my confidence and drive to create even more.

To my surprise, the audience grew rapidly—from just a few hundred followers to several thousand in a relatively short time. The growth was organic and fueled by my genuine love for what I was doing. By staying true to my passion and consistently sharing my work, I was able to build a dedicated and engaged audience.

For those just starting to build their social media presence, here are some pieces of advice based on my experience:

1. Do What You Love: Focus on creating content that you genuinely enjoy. Your passion will shine through and attract like-minded individuals.

2. Be Consistent: Commit to posting regularly. Consistency helps build an audience that looks forward to your content.

3. Start Where You’re Comfortable: Choose a platform where you feel less pressured. For me, TikTok’s anonymity was a great starting point.

4. Don’t Overthink It: Post content without worrying too much about what people will think. Authenticity is more important than perfection.

5. Engage with Your Audience: Respond to comments and engage with your followers. Positive interactions can encourage you to keep creating and posting.

6. Leverage Multiple Platforms: Once you gain some traction, share your content across different social media platforms to reach a broader audience.

7. Enjoy the Process: Remember that social media growth is a journey. Enjoy the process of creating and sharing your work.

Building a social media audience doesn’t happen overnight (mine still isn’t huge), but by staying true to your passion and consistently sharing your unique voice, you can create a meaningful and engaged community around your work.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/ogrossii
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ottogrossproductions/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ottogrossmusic
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ottogross/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/ottogrossmusic

Image Credits

Kim Powell
Rachel Breakey Photography