At an age when many artists consider stepping back from the spotlight, Jim Vierra is just hitting his creative stride. The gospel songwriter, who spent five decades soaking in the rich traditions of R&B, soul, and inspirational music before putting pen to paper three years ago, brings a lifetime of musical wisdom to every composition. “I’ve always lived with these sounds in my heart,” Vierra reflects. “Now, I’m giving back to the tradition that raised me.”
Vierra’s music stands out in contemporary gospel for its authentic, choral-driven sound—a refreshing contrast to the genre’s increasingly soloist-dominated landscape. By collaborating with rising vocalists, choirs, and orchestras, he creates spiritual anthems that feel both grand and intimate. “Keeping the music original is my biggest challenge,” he admits. “I don’t want to mimic what’s charting—I want to create something that lasts.” This commitment to timeless quality recently earned him a career milestone: airplay on Kirk Franklin’s XM Radio Praise station, a validation that his old-school approach resonates in today’s market.
His latest release, “Glory Forever Amen” (a stirring rendition of The Lord’s Prayer), exemplifies Vierra’s mission: to uplift through musical excellence. The track builds from meditative reverence to triumphant celebration, showcasing his knack for dynamics that mirror spiritual journeys. “My goal isn’t just to make songs,” he explains. “It’s to provide encouragement for people’s walk with God.”
What’s next for this late-blooming force? Expanding Fifty Something Records, his label dedicated to nurturing mature artists often overlooked by mainstream gospel. “We have wisdom to share,” Vierra says of his roster. True to form, he remains unusually accessible for an emerging label head—taking calls from fans and personally responding to social media messages.
When asked what advice he’d give his younger self, Vierra’s answer reveals his artist-turned-entrepreneur evolution: “Understand the business side better.” It’s this combination of artistic purity and hard-won industry savvy that makes his second act so compelling.
Jim Vierra isn’t chasing trends—he’s building a legacy. With new signings planned and more soul-stirring music in the works, the gospel world would do well to listen closely.
Stream “Glory Forever Amen” now and follow @JimVierraMusic for updates.
“Good music ministers long after the last note fades.” — Jim Vierra