Opening Scene: A Stormy Journey
“Hey man, we’re in the middle of the storm, bro.”
Chris Hulvey begins his story in the midst of nature’s chaos, driving on darkened roads where visibility is near zero. It’s an apt metaphor for his spiritual and personal journey. He feels awe at the sheer magnitude of God’s power, reflecting on how small and lost we can feel in the vastness of life.
“Honestly, y’all, we can’t even see right now. That’s the journey.”
Hulvey shares how life is often like driving blind through a storm, unsure of where we’re headed but trusting the process.
A Fight for Identity
“Yeah, I’m out here stepping into the room for the fight of my life.”
From the outset, Hulvey frames his story as a battle—a personal, spiritual, and emotional fight. Kneeling in prayer, he prepares himself for a life where faith isn’t passive but active, requiring persistence and humility.
“I’ve been practicing, but y’all don’t know Hovie—you know Christopher.”
He introduces the dichotomy of his identity: the stage persona “Hovie” and the man behind it, Christopher. His journey is about reconciling these two selves.
Humble Beginnings in Brunswick, Georgia
“Man, bro-walking in love.”
Hulvey takes us back to his roots in Brunswick, Georgia, a town that shaped his values and faith. Growing up in a trailer with modest means, he witnessed his mother’s deep reliance on God.
“She literally prayed to God for soap—and it showed up in the mailbox.”
This simple yet profound act of faith left an indelible mark on Hulvey. It was a childhood steeped in a life of trust and miracles.
Early Church Days
“My parents took me to church every week, and I actually enjoyed it.”
Church was more than a ritual for Hulvey; it was a place of connection. He recounts fond memories of childhood Sundays, filled with snacks and friendships. However, his understanding of faith at the time was surface-level.
“I picked up a lot about Jesus dying for me, but I didn’t really understand what that meant for my life.”
A Life-Changing Mission Trip
“I went on a mission trip and saw things I can’t unsee.”
A pivotal moment came during a mission trip, where Hulvey witnessed miraculous healings and transformations. These experiences ignited a fire in him, showing him what living out faith truly means.
“Every day when I got home, I’d think, ‘What are we doing? Are we even loving each other?’”
This newfound perspective pushed him to seek a deeper relationship with God.
The Struggles of High School Faith
“In high school, I was the Pharisee.”
During his teenage years, Hulvey grappled with judgmental tendencies. He shares how his zeal for faith often came across as condemnation rather than compassion.
“I had conviction but no discernment.”
His rigid stance alienated friends, leaving him feeling isolated. Yet, these struggles were lessons in humility and growth.
Finding Belonging in Hip-Hop
“Hip-hop culture became a place where I felt like I belonged.”
Freestyling and battle-rapping became Hulvey’s outlet, a way to express himself and connect with others. His talent flourished, and he began releasing music on SoundCloud. However, his ambition was tempered by a divine call to surrender.
“God told me, ‘Delete all your music.’”
Obediently, Hulvey wiped his slate clean, allowing God to guide his creative process. This act of faith would later open doors he couldn’t have imagined.
The Reach Records Chapter
“I signed with Reach Records, but the journey wasn’t what I thought.”
Joining a major label was a dream realized but also a challenge. Hulvey struggled with feelings of loneliness and inadequacy as a new artist. He thought he was ‘joining a family’ at Reach Records but didn’t fit in at first and it was hard for him. Over time, he learned that family—whether biological or chosen—isn’t perfect but is essential.
Christopher vs. Hovie
“Now, I want people to hear my album, hear Christopher, and experience freedom through the Spirit.”
Hulvey emphasizes the importance of authenticity in his music. While his stage persona “Hovie” connects with fans, it’s Christopher—the man behind the mic—who seeks to share his heart and faith.
A Message of Freedom
“If you believe He, Jesus, loves you and died for you, you’ll find freedom—a life of peace, love, and joy.”
At the core of Hulvey’s journey is a message of hope and redemption. Through his music and testimony, he wants others to experience the same freedom he’s found in Christ.
Purpose in Him
“I’m still learning, but I know I’m a Christ-bearer, and I have purpose in Him.”
The documentary ends on a reflective note, with Hulvey acknowledging that his journey is ongoing. He may not have all the answers, but he’s confident in his purpose and the transformative power of God’s love.
This powerful documentary weaves together themes of faith, struggle, and identity, offering a glimpse into the heart of a man whose life and art are deeply intertwined with his belief in God. Hulvey’s story is one of vulnerability, growth, and unwavering hope—a testament to the power of surrender and the beauty of belonging.
Featured Image: Hulvey | Instagram