Jonas Myrin
Originally from Sweden and now based in Los Angeles, Jonas Myrin is a Grammy® Award winning singer, songwriter, pianist, and producer. With a versatile talent that transcends genres, Jonas has collaborated with Celine Dion, Barbra Streisand Andrea Bocelli, Natasha Bedingfield and Nicole Scherzinger, among others. His collaboration with Lauren Daigle has produced a captivating track together with Gary Clark Jr. on her self-titled no1 album. Through it all, Jonas remains grounded in his dedication to storytelling through music, leaving an unforgettable imprint on the industry and the hearts of those who listen.
In this interview we discuss his background and purpose, collaborating with Lauren Daigle, and the songs he’s written for the new film, The Hopeful, a tale of faith and perserverance.
When do you realize songwriting was your calling in life?
I think I was around 10 or 11 years old when I truly began to pour my heart into songwriting at the piano. Growing up, my family's journey in ministry led us to travel around the world, but amidst the constant change, the piano remained a steadfast companion.
It became more than just an instrument; it was my sanctuary, my confidant, and a place where I could freely express my emotions and prayers.
Even now, as a professional songwriter and artist, I view music more than a “job”… it’s my passion, my purpose, and my ministry. It's such a privilege to use this gift to touch hearts, connect with others and offer comfort, faith and hope through music.
You have collaborated with a wide range of artists and songwriters over the years (Celine Dion, Barbra Streisand, Andrea Bocelli, Natasha Bedingfield, and Lauren Daigle to name a few) - what do you find inspirational about working with artists from a wide range of backgrounds and genres?
Each collaboration offers a unique opportunity to dive into new sounds and perspectives, sparking creativity in greater ways than when you write alone - regardless if it’s writing for a well known artist, or a brand new singer/songwriter.
Every time it’s like discovering new colors on a canvas, each bringing its own vibrancy, inspiration, authenticity and story to the songwriting process.
You collaborated with Lauren Daigle recently to write “Salvation Mountain” for her self-titled album. It features Gary Clark Jr on electric and a gospel choir. The song has a very Southern Gospel bent to it! Tell us about the writing and recording process. Did you choose the musical direction for this song?
Lauren and I actually wrote “Salvation Mountain” during a road trip to the actual Salvation Mountain, located in the desert outside Joshua Tree, California. It was an incredible experience being surrounded by such a unique landscape and nature, as we delved into the essence of soul and gospel for inspiration.
Infusing our own experiences and contemporary influences, the song took shape in unexpected ways.
Little did we know that this song, born on a road trip, would become an anthem of hope for so many people! Gary Clark Jr.'s soulful bluesy guitar parts added a depth and richness that elevated the song, beautifully complemented by Mike Elizondo's amazing production.
It's amazing how the creative process can lead to such unexpected and meaningful outcomes.
Recently, you’ve written two songs for a new film called The Hopeful. Tell us what drew you to this project.
When my good friend Kyle Portbury, the director of the film, called me and asked if I'd be willing to watch a rough cut of the edit, and possibly write a song for it, I eagerly accepted the challenge.
The film and story ignited such a powerful creative spark within me.
After watching The Hopeful, I rushed to the piano, and inspiration struck like a bolt of lightning. “Hope Is on the Way” was born in that moment, followed shortly by “Made for You.” This whole journey has been a testament to the beauty of creative collaboration – where storytelling and song intertwine to serve a purpose greater than ourselves.
Did you use themes from the upcoming film, such as waiting on the Lord and Christ-centeredness transformation, in the songwriting process?
The heartbeat of The Hopeful became the mirror of my songwriting process. I sought to reflect the film's message of waiting and anticipation and I think the chorus of “Hope is On the Way” somehow sums it up: “it’s gonna get better, the Son will come again - don’t you be afraid. Hope is on the way.”
It has been a true privilege to contribute to a project dedicated to spreading light and hope in a world that needs it more than ever.
Any words of advice for aspiring writers when it comes to where to focus their attention? How do you balance writing for the Church, for artists, and for films?
For aspiring writers, I'd say:
Stay true to yourself and your unique voice. Embrace the authenticity of your experiences and let them guide your pen, piano, or guitar strings. Don't be afraid to explore new horizons and step out of your comfort zone and WALK on water. Be open to collaborate with others who can challenge you and your writing, give you new perspectives and enrich your creative journey in new ways.
How do you balance writing for the Church, for artists, and for films?
Balancing writing for the artists, films and the Church is a dance of passion and purpose.
It's about pouring your heart into each project and being obedient, following where the Spirit leads you. And throughout it all keeping the main thing, the main thing. For me that is the desire to bridge Heaven and earth through the power of music, story and song, regardless of the genre - shining brightly in the darkness for the world that He so loves!
