Finding Hope in the Struggle
How Faith Turned Challenges into a Masterpiece
We had the opportunity to speak with Stephen Stanley, and he shared how one of his most significant tracks, “Whatever It Takes,” came to life—a process that was anything but straightforward.
If you haven’t heard of Stephen Stanley, it’s time to get acquainted with this rising Christian artist whose music resonates deeply with listeners around the world. Known for his authentic lyrics and heartfelt melodies, Stephen’s journey as a musician is shaped by his faith, creativity, and a commitment to creating songs that truly speak to people’s hearts.
The Long Road to “Whatever It Takes”
Stephen shared “Whatever It Takes” was one of the most challenging tracks to complete on his album. “That song took so long to make—it’s probably the one song on the album that took the longest,” Stephen admitted. The journey required endless patience, and a willingness to start over again and again.
Stephen explained that the song went through “like 8 or 9 different iterations” before it finally felt right. The process involved constant reworking, especially when it came to the chorus, which Stephen and his collaborators struggled to nail down. “We had written it, but the chorus wasn’t working,” he said, highlighting the frustration that can come when a key part of a song just isn’t coming together.
Sometimes the best things in life, whether it’s a song or a personal journey, take time and patience to develop.
Finding the Sound
Despite the challenges, Stephen refused to give up. His determination to create something special kept him going through the tough spots. He recalls a breakthrough moment that changed everything. “I found this sound; I took acoustic guitars. I would record it, make a chord out of it and then I would just blow it up in the music software and start stacking stuff.” This experimentation with sound opened new possibilities and led to the creation of a chorus that, in Stephen’s words, came together in just “15 minutes” after struggling with it for so long.
“Sometimes I feel like you have to blow up the old thing to make something new,” Stephen shared, illustrating how both in music and in life, letting go of what isn’t working can make room for new, better possibilities.
A Song That’s Worth the Wait
“It’s definitely one of the songs I’m most proud of on the album,” he said, reflecting on the effort that went into its creation. “Whatever It Takes” combines elements of rock with an “old school, like Eagles kind of vibe,” giving it a unique sound that resonates with listeners on multiple levels.
Whether you’re struggling to complete a project or facing a challenging season in life, let Stephen’s story remind you that perseverance, faith, and a willingness to keep trying can lead to something truly special.
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