_{By Abi Falin}

Mark Lanham’s music creates a homey atmosphere. It feels like cozying up in a warm blanket or having a heartfelt conversation with a loved one. Striving for “honesty and sincerity” in his music, Mark began playing guitar and writing music when he was 9 or 10. With his warm vocals, gentle guitar, and subtle drums, Mark accomplishes his hope of “sharing an emotion or experience that people connect with and relate to when they listen” to his music.

A significant influence on Mark’s music since childhood has been James Taylor, whose distinctive guitar style and tender storytelling permeate Mark’s debut album, It’s All What It’s Meant to Be. Mark said that most of the songs from the album revolve around the same individual, and once written, he felt compelled to share his music with the world. He emphasizes the importance of writing honest music. “If I think too much about the process, it starts to feel forced and not as genuine,” he says.

My favorite song from the album is “Raised Up.” Mark says that “Raised Up” is a song about his mother. “She spent a lot of her young adulthood searching for purpose and meaning, and it’s kind of about her finding God after being raised in a pretty non-religious household. I don’t believe in God myself, but her journey has always been beautiful to me.” The song’s poignant lyrics struck me, especially the line “She found what life is all about.”

I also love “Stick Around.” It talks about the fear of losing someone dear:

“And the thought of losing you,
It’s something I can’t afford to do.
If I hold on, you’ll stick around.”

The lyrics echo a universal sentiment, capturing the bittersweet realization that holding on is natural when faced with the potential loss of a cherished connection. The soft drums and intricate guitar plucking in this music enhance the song’s beautiful words: “I’ll hold you tight, it’ll be alright, we’ll make it through another night.”

Mark Lanham’s music is a must-listen. Its textural and ethereal sounds leave me with a tranquil feeling, reminiscent of watching snow fall at night under a faded orange sky. Just as snowflakes gently settle, Mark’s music leaves a peaceful and lasting imprint on the listener.

Make sure to follow Mark Lanham on Instagram. You can listen to “Raised Up” below!