In today’s evolving Christian music scene, few artists blend traditional gospel with hip-hop as seamlessly as McCarty & Benge. Their new single, “Moving Mountains”, captures the duo’s unique chemistry, combining Southern gospel soul and hip-hop grit to deliver a powerful message of resilience and faith. Following the release of their debut album, ‘Small Town’, in 2022, the duo has steadily gained a following, and their upcoming project, ‘Live On Faith’, set for November 8, promises to expand their impact even further. In a recent interview, Ian McCarty opened up about the inspiration behind “Moving Mountains”, their creative process, and the unshakeable faith that fuels their music. Here’s a closer look at what makes McCarty & Benge’s music a refreshing take on gospel.
McCarty & Benge’s latest track, “Moving Mountains”, speaks to the depth of their faith journey while offering a fresh approach to gospel music. In a recent interview, Ian McCarty shared how “Moving Mountains” goes beyond genre boundaries to convey powerful messages of resilience and belief. With ‘Live On Faith’, McCarty & Benge are ready to redefine Christian music with a blend of soul and grit that resonates with a diverse audience.
This track’s inspiration comes from Ian McCarty’s travels in East Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains, where he found the perfect metaphor for faith’s enduring power. The mountains, majestic yet unmoving, sparked the idea for “Moving Mountains”, a track that isn’t just about overcoming obstacles but celebrates a faith capable of reshaping lives. Together with Michael Benge, whose Southern gospel influence complements McCarty’s hip-hop roots, the duo captures the essence of strength and conviction, underscoring that gospel music can be both spiritually enriching and musically innovative.
The music-making process has been a faith-driven journey for both artists, McCarty reveals. As they worked on “Moving Mountains”, the duo found that creating music is not just an artistic endeavor but a form of spiritual worship. Through lyrics that reflect their personal faith, they invite listeners to pause, reflect, and find strength in their connection to Christ. For McCarty & Benge, music offers a unique opportunity to strengthen their relationship with God, creating songs that resonate with believers and music enthusiasts alike.
Musically, McCarty and Benge’s influences are as diverse as they are grounded. Michael Benge’s deep appreciation for country legends like Kenny Hinson, Ronnie Milsap, and Brooks & Dunn adds a soulful foundation, while Ian McCarty’s love for artists like TobyMac and Motown brings a rhythm that keeps listeners engaged. By blending these influences, McCarty & Benge craft a sound that is as eclectic as it is authentic, challenging stereotypes about what gospel music can be.
Their upcoming album, ‘Live On Faith’, releasing on November 8, promises more of this genre-blurring spirit. While rooted in Christian faith, ‘Live On Faith’ reaches beyond with messages of family, struggle, and redemption. The album is a continuation of the themes explored in ‘Small Town’, with a bolder, more expansive sound that speaks to those in search of strength and hope. The duo’s music is ultimately a celebration of resilience—a reminder that even in life’s hardest moments, faith offers a way through.