In an exclusive conversation with the Youth Nation Podcast, Forrest Frank opens up about his hit song “Altar,” his family life, and new music. Forrest’s journey from creating music in his bedroom to inspiring youth across the globe is a story worth telling. Here’s what he shared in his first-ever podcast appearance.
From Fulshear to Faith
Forrest grew up in Fulshear, Texas, near Houston, and now resides in Waco. His journey to faith started early but deepened in college.
Forrest: I grew up in a Baptist/non-denominational home and gave my life to Christ at eight. But it wasn’t until my sophomore year of college that I truly understood what that meant.
Forrest Frank’s Encounter with God: A Life-Changing Moment
Forrest Frank shared the full story of his powerful encounter with God during his sophomore year of college, a moment that completely transformed his life. At the time, Forrest was grappling with depression, insecurity, and the weight of sin after straying from his faith. One day, while sitting in a coffee shop, he heard a voice in his head—gentle but firm—saying, “Go to church.” Though he wasn’t sure if it was his own thought or something divine, he decided to look up local church services and found one happening that night at Antioch Church in Waco.
Forrest arrived late, intending to sit quietly in the back. What he didn’t realize was that the service was not a typical Wednesday night gathering but the conclusion of a church-wide three-day fast with extended worship. As he walked in, the building was buzzing with the presence of the Holy Spirit.
“I opened the door, and as soon as I stepped inside, whatever baggage I had on me just fell off,” Forrest recalled. He was overwhelmed by the weightlessness he felt in that moment and the undeniable presence of God in the room.
As he made his way into the worship area, Forrest was surrounded by believers engaged in intense, heartfelt worship. The atmosphere was electric, dense with the Spirit of God. Overcome with emotion, Forrest fell to his knees and cried out to Jesus.
“For the first time, I felt genuinely loved and complete,” Forrest shared. “That night, everything changed for me.”
This encounter marked the beginning of Forrest’s journey of reconciliation and transformation. From that moment on, his faith became the foundation of everything he did, shaping his music, relationships, and purpose. Forrest’s testimony is a vivid reminder of the power of surrender and the life-changing love of God.
A Love for Music
Forrest’s musical journey began in high school when he saw someone making beats on a Maschine Micro.
Forrest: I thought, “That looks fun.” I was terrible at first, but I kept at it. By senior year of college, I reached a point where people started asking for my songs.
After graduating, Forrest balanced music with a career at Abbott Laboratories, releasing albums while working his day job.
Forrest: Music was always a part of me, and it felt natural to keep pursuing it.
Forrest Frank’s Seven-Year Journey to Musical Success
Forrest Frank’s path to becoming a successful musician is a testament to the power of hard work, persistence, and faith. His journey took seven years of dedication before he earned his first dollar from music—a journey marked by passion, struggle, and unwavering commitment.
It all began in high school when Forrest saw someone making beats on a Maschine Micro, a compact music production tool. Intrigued, he thought, “That looks fun.” He saved up, bought the Maschine Micro during his senior year, and from the moment he started, he was hooked.
“I was terrible at first,” Forrest admitted. “But I kept at it.”
The Early Days: Learning by Doing
Forrest dove headfirst into music production, often skipping events to stay home and make beats. His love for creating music outweighed the frustration of being a beginner. While others might have lost motivation, Forrest remained focused.
“By freshman year of college, I was cooking up beats all the time,” he said. “I didn’t have anyone else to work with, so I just kept experimenting on my own.”
Through trial and error, Forrest honed his craft. Every day he worked on music, putting in countless hours, driven by the hope that one day it would all pay off.
The Turning Point: Daily Commitment
By his senior year of college, Forrest had put in thousands of hours, abiding by the “10,000-hour rule.” He reached a point where his music began to resonate with others.
“People started asking me for my songs,” he recalled. “They’d hear something I was working on in my room and say, ‘Yo, can you send me that?’ That’s when I realized I was starting to get better.”
Even after graduating, Forrest knew he couldn’t bank on music alone to support himself. He took a job at Abbott Laboratories while continuing to produce music on the side.
“I was hedging my bets,” Forrest explained. “I wanted to make sure I could provide for my family while still pursuing my passion for music.”
The Long Road: Seven Years of Persistence
Forrest shared that it took about six years of consistent effort to make music that he was truly proud of. It was another year before he began making any money from his work.
“If I explained what I did to get to where I am, most people wouldn’t do it,” he admitted. “It was years of consistent work with no guarantee of success.”
While some people expect quick results, Forrest emphasized that his journey was anything but fast.
“It took me seven years before I even made a dollar,” he said. “Some people drop out of school or quit their jobs thinking they’ll make it in music right away, but for me, it was years of grinding.”
Learning the Importance of Finishing
One of the hardest lessons Forrest learned was the discipline of finishing songs.
“Starting a song is fun—it’s like candy,” Forrest said. “But finishing a song? That’s hard work.”
Over time, he became what he calls “the finisher,” someone who could push through the challenging stages of the creative process to produce polished, complete tracks.
Lessons from the Journey
Forrest’s journey taught him that success in music—or any field—requires more than just talent. It demands discipline, patience, and a willingness to persevere through setbacks.
“I’ve released over 140 songs across different projects, and maybe one in 12 or 13 does really well,” he shared. “Some people think they’ll hit it big after releasing a few tracks, but it takes consistency and a lot of trial and error.”
Encouragement to Others
Forrest’s story is a powerful reminder that success doesn’t come overnight. His seven-year journey of daily commitment, learning, and growing shows that hard work and dedication pay off, even when the road seems long.
“For anyone chasing their dreams, just know it takes time,” he said. “If you’re willing to put in the effort and trust the process, you can achieve it.”
Creating Content: Forrest Frank’s “Leg Day” Approach
Forrest Frank likens the demanding process of creating social media content to “leg day” at the gym. Just as leg day is often dreaded by gym-goers for its intensity and discomfort, Forrest admits that creating and managing content isn’t always enjoyable at first. However, he explains how consistency, discipline, and a focus on the long-term payoff make it a rewarding part of his creative process.
“Content is like leg day,” Forrest said. “You hate it at first. Then you start to kind of like it. And eventually, you see the results, and people are like, ‘Yo, your legs are kind of busted, bro.’ And you’re like, ‘Yeah, I’m up now.’”
Forrest shared how his perspective on content creation evolved over time. Initially, it felt like an obligation—a necessary part of building his music career—but as he continued, he began to see it differently.
“Once you keep doing it, you realize it’s not just about the work,” he explained. “It’s about the results and how it makes you feel later. Just like how working on your legs makes your whole body stronger, creating good content strengthens everything you’re doing creatively.”
The Discipline of Consistency
Forrest emphasizes that, much like working out, the key to success with content creation is consistency. Showing up, even on days when you don’t feel like it, is what separates success from stagnation.
“At first, I hated it,” Forrest admitted. “But then I started to like it. Now, it’s just part of what I do, and I enjoy it because I know it’s making an impact.”
He also highlights the importance of intentionality in the process. For Forrest, content creation isn’t just about putting out videos or posts—it’s about serving his audience.
“You have to think about how your content serves others,” he said. “It’s like running a restaurant. You’re not going to just slap food on a plate and throw it at someone. You’re going to make it perfect, present it well, and hope they love it.”
The Long-Term Payoff
Forrest acknowledges that while the process may not always feel enjoyable, the rewards come in the form of connection, growth, and creativity.
“Eventually, you see the results,” he said. “You start to feel proud of the work, and it becomes something you actually look forward to. It’s like seeing your legs get stronger after all those hard days at the gym.”
By likening content creation to leg day, Forrest offers a relatable and inspiring metaphor for anyone struggling with the grind of creative work. His story underscores the importance of discipline, hard work, and the ability to focus on long-term goals rather than short-term discomfort.
“Creating content, just like leg day, makes you stronger,” Forrest said with a smile. “And in the end, you’ll be glad you put in the work.”
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Staying Grounded: Habits for Balance and Productivity
Forrest Frank attributes much of his creative output and personal balance to intentional wellness practices that keep him grounded. Beyond his commitment to prayer and worship, Forrest integrates holistic health habits into his daily routine. He prioritizes eating healthy to sustain his energy, embraces sunlight for its natural restorative benefits, and incorporates grounding techniques—such as connecting his mattress to the ground—to promote physical and mental equilibrium. Even small adjustments, like using red light in the bathroom at night to improve sleep quality, reflect his attention to overall well-being. These practices, combined with his dedication to family and faith, create the foundation he needs to approach his life and music with focus, clarity, and purpose.
“Playing Catch with the Father”: The Heart Behind No Longer Bound
Forrest Frank described creating No Longer Bound as a deeply personal and intimate connection with God, likening it to “playing catch with [his] Father.” In the interview, he explained how the song began as a private act of worship—just him at the piano, playing chords and singing the chorus. This simple act of devotion felt like a child enjoying a meaningful moment with their loving parent, throwing the ball back and forth. The analogy beautifully captures the relational, joyful, and personal nature of his worship and songwriting process. For Forrest, the experience was about communion, not performance, which made releasing the song to the world both sentimental and significant. It was, as he described, sharing a sacred piece of his relationship with God, allowing others to witness and feel the same connection.
The Story Behind “No Longer Bound”
One of Forrest’s most impactful songs, “No Longer Bound,” started as a personal worship session.
Forrest: I’d sit at the piano, playing the chords and singing the chorus. It was my go-to connection with the Lord. Eventually, I felt called to turn it into a song.
The song features layered vocals, all performed by Forrest.
Forrest: I recorded it on my iPhone, pitched up the vocals, and added crowd vocals.
He later collaborated with Hulvey, who contributed a powerful verse.
Collaboration and Creativity: The Making of “Altar”
Forrest and Hulvey’s synergy shines in their hit song “Altar.”
Forrest: Hulvey sent me the initial track, and I was instantly hooked. We kept building on it, and it became what it is now. Working with Hulvey is a blessing—he brings out something unique in me.
Addressing Criticism of Christian Music
When asked about the perception of Christian music as “corny,” Forrest offered a bold perspective.
Forrest: Give it one more year. Worship is already solid, but Christian music as a whole is evolving. Artists are bringing authenticity and creativity. I believe we’re moving into a season where the world will sacrifice its values to absorb Christian art.
A Divine Meeting: How Forrest Frank Met His Wife
Forrest Frank shared the heartfelt and serendipitous story of how he met his wife, a moment he attributes to God’s perfect timing and orchestration. The encounter happened shortly after Forrest had recommitted his life to Christ during his sophomore year of college. Just a few days after his transformative experience at Antioch Church in Waco, he decided to join his church’s spring break mission trip—a bold step for someone so new in their faith.
“I had just given my life to Jesus, and I felt like I didn’t know enough to share the gospel,” Forrest recalled. “But they told me, ‘Just tell people what Jesus did for you.’ So, I went.”
The following year, Forrest decided to join the same mission trip again. This time, something extraordinary happened. During a gathering at a pavilion, with a large group of people listening to a speaker, Forrest noticed her for the first time.
“I looked over at her, and she looked at me,” Forrest shared. “We locked eyes, and in that two seconds, we had a whole conversation. I just knew.”
That brief but powerful moment of eye contact created an instant connection between them. Shortly afterward, they ended up in the same car ride with mutual friends as they traveled to and from an event. While the dynamic in the car on the way there was casual and conversational among the group, everything changed on the return trip.
“I was sitting next to her, and we were completely locked in,” Forrest explained. “Our body language said it all—we were turned toward each other, chest to chest, just talking like we’d known each other forever.”
He had never experienced anything like it before, and the chemistry between them was undeniable. Forrest wasted no time.
“The next day, I told her I had feelings for her,” he said with a smile.
Surprisingly, his honesty didn’t scare her away. She felt the same connection, and their relationship began to grow. Forrest attributes their meeting to God’s timing and guidance, believing it was orchestrated in the most intentional way.
Reflecting on their first encounter, Forrest remarked, “God had it all planned out. It’s amazing how He brought us together in such a unique and meaningful way.”
Their story is a testament to how God can use even the simplest moments—a glance, a conversation—to create life-changing connections.
Family First: Forrest Frank’s Commitment to Prioritizing Home Over Work
Forrest Frank is clear about his priorities: his family comes first. While his music career is thriving, and opportunities abound, Forrest has made a conscious decision to put his wife and son above everything else. For him, being present at home far outweighs any career milestones he might achieve by being away.
“My wife and son are everything to me,” Forrest shared. “Touring is fun, but there’s no world where I’d be okay being away from my wife and son for more than three or four days right now.”
Forrest has already experienced the demands of touring and understands the toll it can take. Yet, he’s unequivocal about what matters most in this season of his life.
“I know I’m going to be 60 years old one day, looking back, and I’d pay whatever I made on a tour—let’s say it’s $200,000—for just one more day with my son,” he explained. “I already know that’s how I’d feel, so I’m choosing to live with that perspective now.”
This deep awareness has led him to delay certain aspects of his career, such as extended touring, to ensure that his family remains his priority.
“As fun as touring is—and it’s probably inevitable at some point—I want to make sure our home is ready for it,” Forrest said. “Maybe when my son can talk and says, ‘Dad, I want to go on the road,’ we’ll figure it out. But until then, I don’t want to miss a single moment.”
Forrest also highlighted the importance of ensuring his wife feels rooted and supported.
“My wife loves her community and feels uprooted when we leave,” he shared. “So it’s about what works for us. Some families thrive on the road, but for us, it’s not the season for that.”
His decision to prioritize his family isn’t just about being physically present—it’s about cultivating a healthy, loving, and supportive environment. Forrest explained how he guards his time and energy to ensure everything is good at home.
“I make sure my wife’s good, my son’s good, and everything’s good at home,” he said. “That’s my foundation. If that’s not right, nothing else will work.”
Forrest’s commitment to his family is an inspiring reminder that true success isn’t just about professional accomplishments—it’s about investing in what matters most. By prioritizing his family, Forrest is setting an example of love, intentionality, and the importance of being fully present.
Advice to High Schoolers
When asked what advice he’d give his younger self, Forrest kept it simple.
Forrest: I wouldn’t change a thing about my journey. But to high schoolers, I’d say: If you can envision yourself doing something, and it’s not completely outlandish, you can achieve it. Just go for it.
Looking Ahead: 2024 and Beyond
Forrest has big plans for 2024, including releasing a song every two weeks.
Forrest: Fans can vote on their favorite demos, and I’ll finish and release them. It’s a fun challenge, and I’m excited to see what connects with people.
Closing Thoughts
Forrest’s passion for music, faith, and family shines through every word.
Forrest: If even one person feels encouraged to chase their calling, prioritize their relationship with God, or value their family, then it’s all worth it.
With a heart for God and a relentless creative drive, Forrest Frank continues to inspire. Keep an eye out for his upcoming releases—they’re sure to be something special.