Toronto Based Artist Grace Marr Makes 'Alternative Inspirational' Music
- Alexus
- Dec 7, 2024
- 5 min read
Blending RnB, Pop, and Gospel influences, Grace Marr, bridges the gap between Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) and mainstream artistry. As both a songwriter and worship leader, Grace’s creative process reflects her collaboration with God, embracing moments of vulnerability to craft songs that resonate with listeners. Whether leading worship, writing for her closest friends, or exploring lighter, more joyful themes, her artistry shows the beauty of faith and the diversity within the Kingdom of God.
Our For The Glory artist for December, Grace Marr, coined the term “Alternative Inspirational” as she saw a gap in the CCM/Gospel music industry. Starting as an RnB/Pop songwriter, Grace’s faith journey led her to blend religious language and spirituality with her emotions and thoughts. This melding of two worlds gave birth to a genre that’s just a little left of what’s being done today in most Christian spaces. Through her music, she explores everyday experiences—like body image issues, wanting to fit in, and the desire to be reckless—while seamlessly weaving in spiritual elements.
When it comes to Grace’s creative process she revealed to us that it's something that changes depending on the season. "Right now I’m making music with my closest friends and craving joy and ease, and just showing up to the studio, showing up in my notes app and voice memos, as often and as vulnerably as possible.” she shares. She boldly states that,
“God gifts us songs and art in general, and that the act of creating is in our DNA as creation…”
Whether a song comes together effortlessly or takes time, Grace views every step as a collaboration with God, staying connected to Him throughout the process.
Grace is a 'BIG community gal': “I love my people and my places and my intentional gatherings. I’ve been truly set free by my community, and every time I think I have to hide or climb into another limiting box, I’ve got a core group of folks who show me that that’s not necessary, and that the Kingdom of God is diverse and beautiful for a reason! To not dim my light or divert from the path that’s been laid out for me, uniquely for me. I am braver and more connected to the heart of Jesus because of them.”
Grace’s love for community and collaboration extends beyond her immediate circle. When asked who she’d include in a dream Christian music festival lineup, her excitement was noticeable. “Dannnggggg... Naomi Raine for SURE! She’s incredible. Dante Bowe too (his album ‘Circles’ is still on repeat for me) and Chandler Moore, Joe L Barnes, Julissa Leilani, Taylor Hill, I’d love to see Elevation Rhythm... maybe do some mainstream crossover with Tori Kelly and PJ Morton? I’m a fan of Judah & the Lion too! And then of course Madison Ryann Ward, Montell Fish... you’ve got Forrest Frank and Hulvey doing their thing! And CalledOut Music, Terrian... Yeah my lineup would be something real special! Plus I’d want to bring in some of the local Toronto Christian creatives and artists... Wait, do I get to play too? Cause I’d add myself! Haha (Lowkey hope this festival happens someday!)”
Grace’s love for worship is reflected in her connection to hymns and church music. Grace laughs that "Amazing Grace" has had its hooks in her since she was a kid—“probably because it has my name in it!” Fitting, isn’t it? She’s also a fan of throwbacks like “Shout To the Lord” and “Open the Eyes of My Heart etc. She adds that she’s most influenced by the moments of leading and being led musically into God’s presence through these songs.
“I cherish those minutes where earth and heaven feel so close? And I carry it with me into my private devotional life and everyday encounters with Jesus. Also to gather the way we do in church is so powerful... to share in those songs together and meet Him as His people... there’s something that shifts in the atmosphere and is so so good.”
Grace hopes to write music that creates similar experiences, where heaven and earth feel close, and atmospheres shift as people lift their voices together.
With her music, Grace’s music makes others feel seen and loved by God even if they don’t believe in Him. With her diverse sound, she highlights that Christianity can look and sound different while reminding fellow believers that the Christian walk isn’t perfect. By embracing vulnerability in her music, Grace hopes they can see “a piece of themselves” and understand it’s okay to not have it all together.
“I hope that ultimately we can learn to keep it simple together, to live in the goodness of God and His love everyday.”
This vulnerability is evident in her songwriting. Her recent album consists of prayers and conversations she’s had with God over the past five years. Specifically the song “Self Care” comes from her personal story and for her childhood best friend to experience God’s love. “But at the time in our friendship I had been growing closer in my relationship with Jesus and just wanted to share that love with her and others who might be apprehensive about him, but still desperately need to experience his presence and unconditional love.” Even more special is that her friend has come to faith since she wrote the song. Praise the Lord!
Grace’s latest album, released in November 2024, reflects her growth as an artist and a person. Every song has a connection to her heart and purpose on the album. “Dear Friends & Family" gets you dancing and is so accessible (plus I get to shoutout my friends and family on the outro)! And "Holyyy" completely encapsulates this chapter in Toronto for me, music directing and worship leading in the Anglican church. I think "Sanctuary" might be my favourite sonically? It’s got this R&B, electric guitar loop and a few vocal runs I was super stoked about.”
Creating the album was no easy feat. The work behind creating a project is often unseen - the sweat and tears, the countless hours spent getting everything just right. For example, it took seven passes on drums and six different producers/drummers for “9th Hour” to sit right. For “Heart of the Father” she edited and recorded the vocals three times, and “Holyyy” was recorded live in her friend’s living room, one of the most beautiful sessions Grace said she has had. Yet, it took six mixes and four masters to finish. Through this process, she’s learned so much about herself and God’s faithfulness. Grace reflects on the “Saving Grace” chapter with so much gratitude for the growth of her character, leadership and patience. “It helps to have the best creative and musical team and talents at your side though... seriously God bless the folks who have been, and continue to do this thing with me! Couldn’t and wouldn’t be the same without them.”
As she moves forward, she’s also ready to have some fun! Perhaps it’s the Canadian winter blues, but Grace has been drawn to lighter, more Pop/Folk sounds, writing about love, Jesus, and romance. So keep your eyes out for the next layer of Grace Marr to be peeled back.
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