Mark Hargrave Music

Mark Ellis Hargrave was born in the charming Cajun town of New Iberia, Louisiana, shortly after his twin sister, Melinda, and is the younger brother to Jackie. Born with a heart condition known as Aortic Stenosis, Mark faced physical limitations in sports during his childhood. However, his unwavering faith in God's plan led him to explore other passions, including joining the school band, chorus, and taking piano lessons.

At 15, Mark’s musical journey took flight as he began to write songs and teach himself guitar. Inspired by his faith, music became a vital source of joy in his life. A pivotal moment occurred when he attended his first Christian concert by The Dameans, where he felt a divine calling toward music ministry within the Catholic Church. Shortly thereafter, he founded the first youth and children's choirs at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church and continued to enrich his community by organizing choirs in surrounding churches.

Mark's talents were recognized with an "excellent rating" award from NALR Catholic Publishing, now OCP, for his songwriting, and he had the privilege of writing the theme song for the 1985 Catholic Youth Conference in Lafayette, Louisiana. He directed SonLight, a choir at St. Margaret Mary Church in Slidell, Louisiana, which has released three albums under his guidance. In fulfilling a lifelong dream, he also released a solo album titled "Footprints in the Sand" in August 2002.

Early influences like Joe Wise, Carey Landry, John Michael Talbot, the St. Louis Jesuits, Maranatha Singers, Integrity Music, Hillsong Worship with Darlene Zschech, and Amy Grant shaped his musical style, alongside artists such as John Denver, The Carpenters, Peter, Paul and Mary, and David Gates and Bread. Growing up surrounded by music, Mark developed a profound appreciation for harmony, often drifting off to sleep with melodies playing from his stereo. His journey reflects a deep commitment to his faith, music, and community service.