Andrew Ripp Biography
Andrew Ripp (born Aug. 24, 1982, in Palatine, Illinois) is a pop-rock/contemporary Christian music singer and Grammy-nominated songwriter based in Nashville.
Andrew Ripp crafts music that blurs the lines of genre stereotypes, fusing the energetic rhythms of pop with the soulful depth of R&B. Since launching his career in 2005, Ripp's songs and albums have connected with a diverse and growing audience, captivating both discerning music lovers who appreciate intricate songwriting and casual listeners seeking catchy melodies.
Possessing an awe-inspiring voice is one thing, but skillfully using it to convey lyrics and emotions that move listeners is quite another. Ripp has honed this ability over the years, establishing himself as a respected songwriter with a distinctive vocal presence. Following the success of his 2010 album, "She Remains The Same," which topped the iTunes Singer/Songwriter chart, Ripp released "Won't Let Go" in 2013. Prior to these albums, he made his debut in 2008 with "Fifty Miles to Chicago." Hailing from Palatine, Illinois, and now residing in Nashville, Tennessee, Ripp is a familiar figure in the national music scene. His songwriting credits include half of Ryan Cabrera's 2005 album "You Stand Watching," featuring the Billboard Hot 100 hit "You Shine On." Additionally, his work has been featured on American Idol, One Tree Hill, and Live to Dance.
Instead of relying solely on his voice to carry his music, Andrew invested significant time in crafting well-rounded songs. As he explains, great artists create space within their music. Over the past two years, Andrew mastered this skill. Encouraged by fellow musician and mentor, Grammy-nominated artist Dave Barnes, he relocated to Nashville with his wife and immersed himself in the songwriting community, refining his artistry and musicianship.
"Won't Let Go" showcases a collection of exceptional songs that speak to both the songwriter and the listener. Collaborating with award-winning producer Charlie Peacock, Andrew entrusted full creative control, allowing the music to shape the recording process organically. The result is a raw and authentic album that blends familiar elements with a fresh sound.
The album features contributions from numerous award-winning musicians and songwriters, including Peacock, engineer/mixer Richie Biggs, and Andrew himself, who co-wrote all eleven tracks. While the creative process was demanding, Ripp is immensely proud of the final product. "Won't Let Go" serves as a reminder that it's okay to navigate life's challenges without having all the answers. As Andrew shares, the album is a personal exploration of self-discovery and resilience, offering hope and relatability to listeners facing their own struggles.
Standout tracks include the infectious "Cool Ya (Nobody Loves You Like I Do)," the poignant ballad "Just Enough," the upbeat "When You Fall In Love," the empowering anthem "Won't Let Go," and the album's closing track, "Rescue Me," featuring Grammy Award winner Vince Gill.
Andrew eloquently captures the cyclical nature of life, emphasizing the importance of embracing both the highs and lows. This theme underscores "Won't Let Go" and connects with many listeners.
In 2014, Andrew released "Simple," an acoustic album featuring stripped-down versions of "Won't Let Go" tracks and a cover of Justin Timberlake's "Mirrors." Subsequent albums include "Andrew Ripp" (2015) and "Evergreen" (2021), with notable singles like "Jericho" and "Fill My Cup" reaching number one on Billboard's Christian Airplay and Christian AC charts. In 2020, Ripp was nominated for a Grammy Award for co-writing the song "Rescue Story" by Zach Williams. The pop-centric radio single "Loves Got A Way" was released on May 24, 2024, the second song off Ripp's upcoming album titled "The Great Wide Open Wild," which is slated to arrive in the fall of 2024. "Loves Got A Way" was written by Ripp, Rachael Lampa, and Ethan Hulse.
As a dedicated touring artist, Andrew's live performances continue to captivate audiences. His energetic shows and undeniable stage presence have earned him a loyal following. He has shared the stage with renowned artists such as Jon Foreman, NEEDTOBREATHE, Will Hoge, Stephen Kellogg & the Sixers, and Robert Randolph and the Family Band. Read more on Last.fm. User-contributed text is available under the Creative Commons By-SA License; additional terms may apply.