Inside My Writing Playlist: The Sounds Behind Dear Strong Friend

October is finally here, and with it comes the release of Dear Strong Friend! As I prepare to share this book with you, I wanted to give a little behind-the-scenes look at something that carried me through the writing process: my playlist.

Every story has its own rhythm, and for me, music isn’t just background noise — it sets the tone, opens the heart, and becomes part of the heartbeat of the words I write. Between April and May, these songs were on repeat as I drafted letters, reflected on seasons of strength and vulnerability, and poured encouragement onto the page.

1. “You Really Are” – Elevation Worship ( ft. Chandler Moore & Tiffany Hudson). This song grounded me in God’s faithfulness. Whenever I felt uncertainty about how the story would come together or how it would reach readers, its lyrics reminded me that God’s presence is steady and sustaining. It became the spiritual anchor of the book, reminding me that even when I feel small or unsure, I am never alone in this work.

2. “My Redeemer’s Praise” – Dunsin Oyekan. A song of celebration and victory, it inspired hope and joy throughout the writing process. Its energy reminded me that God redeems, restores, and lifts us in every situation — exactly the kind of encouragement I wanted to share with strong friends who are often carrying the weight of others.

3. “Safe and Sound” – Forrest Frank ft. CAIN. Its reflective, comforting tone perfectly captured the message at the heart of the book: that even the strongest among us deserve rest, peace, and reassurance. Listening to it while writing certain letters helped me imagine the readers’ hearts receiving those words and finding comfort in them.

4. “Yahweh (Godiya Gareka)” – Limoblaze, kaestrings & Joe L. Barnes. This song brought awe and reverence, deepening the prayerful energy I wanted the book to hold. It reminded me that the source of strength, hope, and encouragement comes from God, and that every word written should point back to Him.

5. “Hosanna” – Kirk Franklin. Its joyful, uplifting worship energy gave me bursts of inspiration and celebration while writing. Some of the most heartfelt moments in the letters flowed while this song played, helping me capture that sense of praise and hope in every line.

6. “We Will Be Many” – Sound of Salem ft. Lawrence Oyor & Moses Akoh. This song emphasized community, encouragement, and shared strength. It reminded me that strong friends are never truly alone — and that even when life feels heavy, connection, support, and collective hope are powerful.

Writing Dear Strong Friend was not just about putting words on paper — it was about creating a space where readers can feel seen, understood, and encouraged. These songs became the atmosphere behind the pages, shaping the tone, emotion, and heart of the story.

I hope sharing this playlist gives you a small glimpse into my writing world, and maybe even inspires your own moments of reflection, encouragement, or worship as you wait for the book’s release this October.