Travis Cottrell
Travis Cottrell is an American contemporary Christian music (CCM) artist, songwriter, worship leader, author, and arranger who has been active in the industry for over 30 years.[1] He is best known for his long-standing role as worship leader for Beth Moore's Living Proof Live conferences, where he has served for 27 years as of 2025,[2] and for releasing more than 30 solo recordings and musicals.[1] Cottrell has collaborated with prominent artists such as Garth Brooks, Amy Grant, and Michael W. Smith, and has performed at prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and Abbey Road Studios.[1] Born in Boone, North Carolina, Cottrell is a graduate of Belmont University.[3] He received Belmont University's Encore Award in 2013 for his contributions to music.[1] As of 2025, he serves as Worship Minister at Brentwood Baptist Church in Brentwood, Tennessee.[4] Throughout his career, Cottrell has earned 26 GMA Dove Award nominations and won twice, including for his album Jesus Saves Live in the Inspirational Album of the Year category.[1] Three of his projects have reached number one on Christian music charts, and as of 2025, he continues to lead worship events and produce music with collaborators like Tommee Profitt and Brown Bannister.[1][5]Early life and education
Childhood and upbringing
Travis Cottrell was born in Boone, North Carolina, the youngest of four children to Glen Cottrell, a World War II hero, and his wife Jean. Growing up in this close-knit family, he was immersed in a home environment where music played a central role, with family members frequently singing traditional hymns during gatherings. This musical foundation, rooted in Southern traditions, fostered an early appreciation for melody and harmony within the family dynamic.[3][6] Cottrell's formative years were shaped by the Appalachian community's vibrant cultural scene, particularly through attendance at Perkinsville Baptist Church in Boone. There, he encountered rich traditional church music, including gospel-influenced hymns that echoed the region's spiritual heritage. Local church events and community worship gatherings provided regular exposure to collective singing and faith-based performances, blending everyday life with musical expression in a rural Southern setting. These experiences highlighted the interplay of music and spirituality in everyday Appalachian life.[3][6] During his adolescence, Cottrell's interest in music intensified, evolving from familial and communal influences into a personal passion. He described himself as a typical kid with diverse interests like basketball and daydreams of piloting or NASCAR racing, yet music emerged as a lifelong pursuit, intertwined with a sensed calling to ministry. This period laid the groundwork for his later transition to formal musical training at Belmont University.[3][6]Education and early influences
Cottrell graduated from Watauga High School in Boone in 1988. He then attended Appalachian State University for two years before transferring to Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1990, where he majored in church music.[3][6][7] He graduated magna cum laude in 1992 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in church music, gaining foundational training in vocal performance, arranging, and sacred music composition during his studies.[8] While at Belmont, Cottrell honed his skills through involvement in local church activities, particularly by leading worship for the youth group at Two Rivers Baptist Church in Nashville. These experiences marked his initial foray into facilitating communal worship, where he observed the transformative impact of music on spiritual engagement, stating, “Watching them fall in love with Jesus helped me realize that I was called to lead people to that place of intimacy with Christ.”[2] Cottrell's artistic development drew from a fusion of traditional hymns rooted in his upbringing and emerging contemporary Christian styles, shaping his approach to blending classic and modern elements in worship music.[9] This period laid the groundwork for his later songwriting and performance career, emphasizing music's role in congregational settings.Music career
Early career and breakthrough
After graduating from Belmont University in 1992 with a degree in church music, magna cum laude, Travis Cottrell moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where he began his professional career as a session musician in the Christian music industry.[8] Initially, he worked at a music production company, focusing on songwriting and arrangements while building his portfolio in the contemporary Christian music scene.[2] In the mid-1990s, Cottrell took on early roles as a backup vocalist and arranger for prominent artists, including Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith, contributing background vocals to their recordings and gaining exposure in Nashville's session work community.[3] His songwriting efforts during this period included his debut published song, "It's Only Thunder," which appeared on Larnelle Harris's 1992 album I Choose Joy, marking an early milestone in his compositional career.[10] He also formed initial songwriting partnerships, notably collaborating with Kathie Hill on projects that expanded his influence in youth and worship music.[3] Cottrell's breakthrough came in 1998 when he received his first major production credit on a worship project tied to Beth Moore's Living Proof Live conference series, starting with the inaugural event in Dothan, Alabama, which drew over 3,000 attendees despite initial expectations of 400.[2] This opportunity elevated his visibility, leading to his role as the primary worship leader for the series and the production of subsequent LifeWay worship albums. Concurrently, he debuted live performances at regional church conferences, including youth worship leading at Two Rivers Baptist Church in Nashville, where he honed his skills in engaging congregational settings.[2]Worship leading and major collaborations
Travis Cottrell began his long-term role as worship leader for Beth Moore's Living Proof Live events in 1998, marking the start of a partnership that has endured for over 25 years.[11] This collaboration has involved leading worship at conferences across all 50 U.S. states and internationally, reaching millions of attendees through dynamic sessions that integrate contemporary Christian music with biblical teaching.[12] Early events, such as the second Living Proof Live conference, drew over 3,000 women, far exceeding initial expectations and setting the tone for the series' growth into large-scale gatherings often attended by thousands per event.[2] Cottrell's worship leading extended to prestigious venues, enhancing the reach and impact of these events. He has performed at Carnegie Hall, including in holiday concerts like the annual Christmas in New York series, as well as at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and recorded at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in London.[3] These high-profile appearances, beginning in the mid-2000s, underscored the professional caliber of his live worship leadership and allowed for innovative arrangements tailored to diverse audiences.[12] Throughout his career, Cottrell has collaborated with prominent Christian artists on worship projects, blending their talents to create impactful recordings and live experiences. Notable partnerships include work with CeCe Winans on praise tracks, Natalie Grant in songwriting and performances, Keith and Kristyn Getty on modern hymn arrangements such as "In Christ Alone," and Michael W. Smith in joint worship albums and events.[12] These collaborations often featured Cottrell's arranging skills, contributing to projects that emphasized communal worship and have been performed at major conferences.[13] Cottrell's contributions have profoundly shaped women's ministry events, particularly through his sustained role in Living Proof Live and similar initiatives like Deeper Still conferences during the 2010s. He provided custom musical arrangements that facilitated engaging, spirit-led worship sessions, helping to draw and inspire large groups of women focused on Bible study and spiritual growth.[14] This work, building on his early connections in Nashville's Christian music scene, amplified the events' emotional and theological depth, fostering lasting community impact.[2]Songwriting, production, and solo releases
Travis Cottrell has established himself as a prolific songwriter and arranger in contemporary Christian music, contributing to over 30 published recordings and musicals that emphasize worship anthems and adaptations of classic hymns.[12] His work includes co-writing original songs such as "Just As I Am" with David Moffitt and Sue C. Smith, as well as "Our God Saves," which blend scriptural themes with accessible melodies for congregational singing.[15] Cottrell is particularly noted for his arrangements of established hymns, including a medley of "In Christ Alone" (originally by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend) paired with "The Solid Rock," which has become a staple in modern worship settings.[16] In addition to songwriting, Cottrell has provided production oversight on several of his own projects, such as the 2014 album I'm Living Proof, where he handled production duties alongside programming and instrumentation.[17] His collaborations extend to songwriting and recording contributions on albums by artists across genres, including MercyMe in contemporary Christian pop, NF in introspective rap-infused worship, and Alan Jackson in country-gospel crossovers, often incorporating elements like acoustic guitars, orchestral swells, and rhythmic drives to bridge traditional and modern sounds.[12] These efforts highlight his ability to fuse gospel roots with pop accessibility and country storytelling, creating versatile tracks suitable for both radio and church environments.[18] Cottrell's solo career gained momentum with the release of Found on November 7, 2006, an album that showcased his evolving style through introspective tracks like the title song, emphasizing personal faith journeys amid full-band arrangements.[19] This project marked a deliberate shift toward greater artistic expression, allowing him to explore themes of redemption and discovery beyond his worship-leading roles. Followed by Jesus Saves Live on June 2, 2009—a live recording featuring a large choir and guest vocalists like Cindy Morgan—it further solidified his presence as a solo artist, with anthemic originals and reimagined hymns performed in a dynamic, audience-engaged format.[20] A key aspect of Cottrell's production and arranging approach involves updating timeless hymns for contemporary worship bands, employing techniques such as layering electric guitars and drums over acoustic foundations to enhance emotional build-up while preserving theological depth.[21] For instance, his adaptation of "I Will Sing of My Redeemer" incorporates upbeat rhythms and choral harmonies, making it adaptable for choirs or smaller ensembles in modern church services.[22] This method not only revitalizes classic texts but also facilitates seamless integration into live worship experiences drawn from his extensive leading background.[23]Recent activities and performances
In 2023, Travis Cottrell marked 25 years of partnership with Beth Moore as the worship leader for Living Proof Ministries, culminating in a series of special live events under the Living Proof Live banner that highlighted their enduring collaboration through dynamic worship sessions and biblical teachings across multiple cities.[24][25] Cottrell has continued his involvement in benefit concerts supporting community causes, notably performing a night of worship in his hometown of Boone, North Carolina, on March 7, 2025, at Alliance Bible Fellowship to raise funds for The Hope Center, a local organization aiding those in crisis; the event, originally scheduled for September 27, 2024, was postponed due to Hurricane Helene.[26][27][3] His production work in the 2020s has emphasized modern worship soundscapes, including collaborations with producers Tommee Profitt on the 2025 arrangement of "You Are My All in All," which blends cinematic elements with traditional hymn structures, and Nathan Nockels, who contributed keys to the 2022 project The Kindness of the Cross and other recent recordings tailored for congregational use.[28][29][30][12] From 2020 to 2022, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Cottrell adapted his performances at conferences and churches to virtual and hybrid formats, such as the Living Proof Livestream event in May 2020 featuring interviews and worship segments, and subsequent simulcast options for Living Proof Live gatherings that allowed broader remote participation while maintaining in-person elements where feasible.[31][32][33] Post-2022, his schedule has included ongoing appearances at events like the Southern Baptist Church Music Conference in 2026 and Christmas at The Cove in Asheville, North Carolina, reinforcing his role in contemporary Christian worship amid evolving post-pandemic dynamics.[34][35]Personal life
Family and marriage
Travis Cottrell married Angela Cottrell in 1993, having met her at Two Rivers Baptist Church in Nashville during his early years in Tennessee.[7] The couple, both alumni of Belmont University, have built a life centered on shared faith and ministry support.[8] Together, they have three children: Jack, who is married to Samantha; Lily, who turned 25 in August 2025; and Levi.[1] In June 2025, Jack and Samantha announced they are expecting a baby boy.[36] Cottrell has emphasized the role of his family as a foundational support for his work, noting in profiles how relocations—such as the family's move from Jackson, Tennessee, to the Brentwood area in 2020—were made with stability in mind to nurture their home life amid his touring commitments.[7] Originally from Boone, North Carolina, the family settled in Tennessee to align with his career opportunities while prioritizing a faith-centered environment.[3] In public discussions, Cottrell has highlighted how his marriage and family provide emotional and spiritual grounding, with he and Angela leading a small group for young married couples in their home to foster similar values in others.[7] This dynamic has allowed him to balance extensive travel for worship leading with meaningful family involvement.Church and community involvement
Travis Cottrell has served as Worship Minister at Brentwood Baptist Church in Brentwood, Tennessee, since July 2020.[7] In this role, he leads the church's worship ministry, overseeing musical and artistic elements that support congregational worship across multiple campuses.[37] His work emphasizes fostering authentic worship experiences that align with the church's mission to engage people with the gospel.[38] Cottrell contributes to local ministry training programs by supporting the Worship & Arts Academy at Brentwood Baptist, which provides weekly music lessons and classes for worship leaders, musicians, and artists within the congregation.[38] These programs aim to equip participants with skills in vocal, instrumental, and production aspects of church music, drawing on experienced instructors from the church community. Additionally, he has led worship sessions at events like the ETCH NextGen Ministry Conference, where he encourages ministry leaders in integrating creative arts into youth and family discipleship.[39] Through his position, Cottrell participates in community outreach in the Nashville area, including charity events such as a Christmas concert benefiting hurricane relief efforts organized by local ministries.[40] He also engages in discussions on broader community impact via the church's Sermon Notes podcast, highlighting ways worship can address local needs and build relational connections.[41] Cottrell advocates for the integration of faith and arts in church settings, particularly through youth programs, by promoting environments where creative expression deepens spiritual formation for younger generations. His wife, Angela, supports these efforts alongside him at the church.[12]Discography
Solo albums and EPs
Travis Cottrell's solo career features a series of worship-focused albums and EPs that emphasize themes of faith, redemption, and adoration, often reimagining traditional hymns alongside original compositions for congregational use.[42] His releases, produced in collaboration with arrangers like Mason Brown and supported by orchestrations suitable for choirs, have consistently prioritized accessibility in church settings.[43] Notable early releases include The Deep (2001), Unashamed Love (2003), Alive Forever (2005), and the Christmas album Ring the Bells (2008, Indelible Music). When the Stars Burn Down (2011, in:ciite) further established his worship style with tracks blending contemporary and traditional elements. The album Found, released in 2006 by Indelible Music, marks one of Cottrell's early solo efforts, blending intimate worship songs such as "Falling" and "Creation Sings" with a focus on personal encounters with God.[44] In 2023, a deluxe edition expanded the original tracklist to 18 songs, incorporating additional arrangements like "Kyrie" and collaborations with artists including Nicole C. Mullen on "You Don't Stand Alone," enhancing its appeal for modern worship environments.[45] This re-release, distributed by DistroKid, underscores Cottrell's commitment to timeless praise music.[46] Jesus Saves Live, issued in 2009 through Indelible Music, captures a live recording featuring a 300-voice choir from First Baptist Woodstock, emphasizing salvation and praise through tracks like "Our God Saves" and "Praise the King."[44] The album's production highlights orchestral elements and performance tracks designed for church replication, contributing to its recognition in Christian music circles.[47] Cottrell's 2024 release Hymnal (one), available via PraiseCharts, reinterprets classic hymns such as "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God," "Praise to the Lord the Almighty," and "Jesus Paid It All" in contemporary worship arrangements, fostering a bridge between historical theology and modern congregational singing.[48] This seven-track project, spanning 27 minutes, prioritizes scriptural depth and choral resources for worship teams.[49] In 2025, Redemption Story, a 10-song album released on February 7 by PraiseCharts, explores narratives of grace, hope, and personal transformation, with standout tracks like "Praise" featuring Brooke Voland and medleys such as "Nothing but the Blood / Give Thanks / Total Praise."[50] Arranged by Mason Brown, it delivers a 52-minute collection tailored for reflective worship services.[43] Also in 2025, Humble Adoration, a seven-track Christmas album distributed by PraiseCharts on October 31, centers on seasonal themes of humility and divine incarnation, including arrangements of "Go Tell It on the Mountain" and "There Is a King / Angels from the Realms of Glory."[51] Running 40 minutes, it provides full worship resources for holiday gatherings.[52] Among his EPs, Before the Manger, a six-song Advent-focused release from October 18, 2024, via PraiseCharts, builds anticipation for Christmas through medleys like "Come Thou Long Expected Jesus / Joy to the World" and "Manger Throne (with The First Noel)," emphasizing prophetic fulfillment in worship moments.[53] The 27-minute EP includes vocal features by Brooke Voland on "Silent Night."[54] Victory In Jesus: Hymns of the Gettys (Vol. 2), an EP released August 29, 2025, by PraiseCharts, continues Cottrell's collaboration with the Getty family, featuring six tracks on triumph and mercy, such as "Victory in Jesus (Christ Won the Victory)" and "His Mercy Is More," designed for choir and orchestra use in 24 minutes.[55] This volume highlights redemptive victory narratives central to evangelical hymnody.[56]| Release | Type | Date | Key Themes | Label/Distributor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Deep | Album | 2001 | Worship discovery | Independent[44] |
| Unashamed Love | Album | 2003 | Unconditional love | Independent[44] |
| Alive Forever | Album | 2005 | Eternal life | Independent[44] |
| Found | Album | 2006 | Personal faith encounters | Indelible Music[44] |
| Found (Deluxe Edition) | Album | July 21, 2023 | Expanded worship praise | DistroKid[45] |
| Ring the Bells | Album | 2008 | Christmas celebration | Indelible Music[44] |
| Jesus Saves Live | Album | June 2, 2009 | Salvation and live praise | Indelible Music[44] |
| When the Stars Burn Down | Album | 2011 | Cosmic worship | in:ciite[44] |
| Hymnal (one) | Album | September 13, 2024 | Reimagined traditional hymns | PraiseCharts[48] |
| Redemption Story | Album | February 7, 2025 | Grace and transformation | PraiseCharts[50] |
| Humble Adoration | Album | October 31, 2025 | Christmas humility and adoration | PraiseCharts[51] |
| Before the Manger | EP | October 18, 2024 | Advent anticipation | PraiseCharts[53] |
| Victory In Jesus: Hymns of the Gettys (Vol. 2) | EP | August 29, 2025 | Victory and mercy in hymns | PraiseCharts[55] |