Brandon Lake on Worship
Vertical Songs and the Power of Praise
If you’ve ever experienced the impact of a powerful worship song, you know how music can stir your soul and bring you closer to God. GRAMMY® Award-winning artist, worship leader and songwriter, Brandon Lake believes in the deep spiritual connection that happens through worship—especially in what he calls “vertical songs.”
Vertical songs directly minister to God, lifting up praise with no distractions. Brandon shared his heart behind worship music and why certain songs, like his well-known anthem “Gratitude,” resonate so deeply.
Vertical vs. Horizontal Worship
Passionate about creating worship music that points straight to God, Brandon distinguishes between two types of worship songs: vertical and horizontal. “Gratitude” is a perfect example of what he calls vertical worship—a song that’s all about praising God directly.
Brandon explains, “There are horizontal songs that would be like, ‘Hey, we’re talking to each other or coaching each other up.’ There are aspects of this in ‘Gratitude,’ like in the bridge, where you’re commanding your soul: ‘Come on, my soul, get up and praise the Lord.’ But the main goal of worship is to minister to God.”
For Brandon, vertical songs are essential because they shift the focus away from ourselves and place it squarely on God. While horizontal songs like “Too Good to Not Believe” share personal testimonies and encourage one another, vertical worship helps us experience the true purpose of worship.
The Power of “Gratitude”
When asked which of his songs people should listen to first, Brandon didn’t hesitate: “Gratitude” was his instant answer. He believes this song touches hearts, bringing people together in a powerful way. He says, “It’s been probably my most influential song. People of all backgrounds and styles seem to all be able to get on with that song and connect with it.”
Brandon goes on to explain “Gratitude” captures two important elements of worship: the quiet, reflective moments and the bold, energetic praise. “What I love about ‘Gratitude’ is that it shows both ends of the spectrum. It starts with a really pretty, angelic vibe, but then the bridge gets rowdy. It encourages people to give more and to offer up a sacrifice of praise. It wakes that lion up inside of them.”
As you listen to the song, you can feel the shift from soft melodies to a stirring, energetic bridge that invites you to rise up in praise. It’s this balance that Brandon tries to bring into his artistry, blending both the serene and the wild aspects of worship.
Songs That Speak to the Church
One of the key elements in Brandon’s approach to worship is creating songs that serve the church. His passion for writing worship music goes beyond personal expression; he aims to create tools for worship leaders and congregations around the world. He points to his latest single, “Praise You Anywhere,” as a song that worship leaders can use to kick off their setlists with energy.
“We need fast songs. Worship leaders, if you’re listening, we need song number one so you can come out the gate in your set with a fast song that’s not cheesy and that sounds like faith. It’s going to wake people up and encourage them to praise God.”
With “Praise You Anywhere,” Brandon hopes to provide a song that injects joy and faith right from the start of worship.
Worship is for God.
The Heart of Worship
“I think the most important thing to remember is that worship is about ministering to God. We can encourage each other, but the goal of worship is to minister to Him. That’s why vertical songs like ‘Gratitude’ are so important. They draw our attention away from ourselves and bring it fully to Him.”
Brandon’s commitment to creating vertical songs reminds us of the true heart of worship. Whether it’s through a quiet, reflective melody or a powerful, energetic anthem, his music is an invitation to praise and connect with God in a deeper way.
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