Ginny Owens claims she doesn’t like to be bored — and her life certainly doesn’t seem to include much down time. When the prolific singer/songwriter isn’t writing or recording music, she’s either working with her nonprofit, The Fingerprint Initiative, or she’s cooking, spending time with friends, hiking or reading.
“Maybe it’s something that’s happening as I’m getting older, but I just feel like there are so many things to be done,” Owens said. “Whether it’s growing your relationships with others, strengthening your faith, experiencing new things — there’s this sense of so much out there.”
Owens recently released her eighth studio album, “I Know A Secret,” a record the Nashville-based singer describes as “musically diverse,” including some pop, country and gospel influence.
“Since I grew up in Jackson, Miss., I can never get too far away from gospel,” she said.
Inspired by Paul
The album was inspired by the words of Paul in Philippians 4:12, which reads: “I know what it is to be in need and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” Owens said she was struck by the idea of being content and free of anxiety regardless of the situation and this album was inspired by the journey to find that “secret” Paul references.
Owens is a three-time Dove Award-winner and is known for her thoughtful lyrics and beautiful melodies. She said at this point in her career she’s developed a bit of a musical process, but writing lyrics hasn’t gotten any easier over the years.
“I have trouble with trying to be concise — I tend to be too wordy,” Owens said. “So the music comes together, but the lyrics often take a while to get right.”
Regardless, the process seems to be working, as Owens has been heralded for her work by Christian and secular organizations and fans alike. She was named Gospel Music Association’s New Artist of the Year in 2000 and has built momentum ever since, gaining nearly one million records in sales and releasing a collection of No. 1 hits.
On her short-term agenda Owens is looking forward to an upcoming trip to Israel — her first time in that country — as well as the re-launch of The Fingerprint Initiative, which is currently being rebranded. The organization, which launched in 2005, helps address international and national outreach and missions needs and partners with local organizations to stock food pantries and build affordable housing.
“I love that we can help people find missions work across the country, across the world or right out their backdoor,” Owens said.
Owens’ 14-track latest record, “I Know A Secret,” is available now in stores and online. For more information, visit ginnyowens.com.
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