Check Out Martrell Harris’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Martrell Harris.

Hi Martrell, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
For as long as I can remember, my voice has been my compass and God has been my guide. Whether singing or speaking, it’s how I’ve navigated the world—and how I’ve come to understand my purpose: to uplift, inspire, and impact both the generations before me and those still to come.

I grew up in Sweetwater, a small town tucked into the hills of East Tennessee. Life there was simple, but even in those early years, something stirred in me that didn’t quite fit the mold. While most kids ran the playground chasing games, I’d turn recess into revival—singing and preaching to anyone who’d listen. I didn’t have a stage or microphone, but I had conviction.

By the time I was 12, that childlike passion had evolved into a deeper calling. I began leading worship regularly at my home church, where I discovered not only my love for music but also a gift for songwriting. Worship became my way of life—a sacred space where I could connect with something bigger than myself and invite others to do the same.

At 18, I left Sweetwater for college, (Middle Tennessee State University) where I obtained my bachelor’s and master’s degrees, while carrying that call to ministry with me, though not entirely sure where it would take me. I joined a local church and began serving in the music department, pouring myself into the craft and the community. Eventually, I transitioned to another church, where something clicked—I found my sound. It was in that environment that I sharpened my skills, learned the technical side of ministry, and discovered the power of spiritual community. I spent three formative years there.

Then came 2015—a year that changed everything. My father was tragically killed. As the oldest, I had to make the impossible decision to take him off life support. I was in my early twenties, still trying to figure out who I was, suddenly thrust into a moment of unimaginable loss. That experience left me with a lot of questions, but also a renewed sense of purpose. Honoring his legacy became a driving force behind everything I did.

In 2017, I took a leap of faith and released my first official single, “I’ll Go.” I was nervous—putting your heart into the world always comes with risk—but the response was more than I imagined. The song picked up on gospel radio stations and immediately caught the attention of gospel icon BeBe Winans, who invited me to appear on The BeBe Experience on Sirius XM. It was a surreal moment—one of those divine nods that says, “You’re on the right path.”

That momentum led to my first live recording project, a collection of six songs that I wrote and co-wrote. I was humbled to have my friend and fellow gospel powerhouse VaShawn Mitchell feature on one of the tracks. That song, one that’s especially close to my heart, “A New Thing” is set to release on May 2, 2025, with more music on the way this summer.

Today, I’m honored to serve as a worship leader at one of Nashville’s fastest-growing churches, One City Church. Every Sunday, I get to pour out what’s been poured into me—to be a vessel, a voice, a light. From playground sermons in Sweetwater to sharing stages with gospel legends, my journey has been anything but linear. But every step, every song, every sorrow and celebration has shaped the man I am today.

And I’m just getting started.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As I got older, I wrestled with questions about where I fit in and how my gifts would be used. When I left for college at 18, I carried a calling without a clear map—just a quiet trust that God was leading me somewhere.

I found myself serving in local churches, doing the work, staying faithful. But internally, I struggled with insecurity—wondering if I was really enough, questioning if my dream was too big, too bold. Eventually, I found my sound—not just musically, but spiritually. I found a tone that was unapologetically me. In that space, I also found a deeper sense of worth. My voice didn’t need to imitate anyone else. It had value just as it was—because it came from God.

I’ve learned that in both ministry and business, learning to advocate for yourself is essential—you have to confidently and assertively represent who you are. It’s not something that comes overnight, but like any muscle, it strengthens with time and experience—and it’s absolutely necessary for the journey.

Ultimately, I’ve learned that pursuing a God-given dream takes immense courage. It means believing in something even when no one else sees it. It means pushing past fear, rejection, and your own doubts. But the reward is peace. And I’ve found deep comfort in knowing that through every trial and triumph, God has always been—and will always be—right there.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’ve been leading worship since the age of 12, and over the years, music has become both my ministry and my mission. What began in my local church has grown into a professional journey that has taken me to stages. I’ve had the honor of sharing the stage with some of the most respected names in music, including Michael W. Smith, Lyle Lovett, Michael McDonald, VaShawn Mitchell, and countless others. Each opportunity has shaped me, stretched me, and reaffirmed my calling to use music as a bridge to hope, healing, and faith

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Mentorship doesn’t always look the same—it’s not a one-size-fits-all experience. Sometimes you actively seek out a mentor, other times one unexpectedly finds you. And often, mentorship can come from a distance through the example and wisdom of those you admire. The key is to remain teachable—to stay open to learning from those who have already walked the path you’re pursuing. My biggest piece of advice: only take guidance from people with the experience and credibility to speak into your journey. Too often, people who haven’t been where you’re going will try to talk you out of it. I’m grateful to have mentors in my life who keep me grounded, challenge me with tough love, and consistently remind me of my worth.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/martrellmoment
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martrellmoment/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/martrellmoment/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@martrellmoment
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2vMX8V3bas78OySJFP1Ggb?si=ixpKkklGRROjdEx08_PVGw