Historically the first ever faith based act to perform at one of the world’s biggest international music festivals, Rolling Loud, native Bay Area Christian Hip-Hop artist-actor, Miles Minnick, is already a prominent figure in his sub-genre, CHH, but with this latest magnum opus, Via Dolorosa, there’s little to no doubt that the proverbial glass ceiling will be shattered beyond repair. Check out our Miles Minnick interview for more on the album, and his road in music.
Miles Minnick on…
“Lifetime” [single]:
We wanted to make a song with a universal sound that could bring joy into any room. My producers played the track, I said what was on the top of my head, and it was one of the easiest songs we’ve ever done.
“The Method,” featuring Lecrae & E-40:
I was already working on “Heaven Sent” with Lecrae, and he loved my process and how fast I was. He then wanted to do a project, and I had this track ready with slots for features. He heard and said, “Boy, you playin’ with fire” and boom, he knocked out his verse and soon followed E-40’s.
Via Dolorosa [album]:
“Via Dolorosa” translates to “The Sorrowful Path,” the route Jesus walked to Calvary. While the album isn’t rooted in emotion, it reflects the joy found in fulfillment — the promise completed through His sacrifice. For me, it symbolizes how walking the path set before us, no matter how difficult, leads to purpose and promise.
Via Dolorosa vs. other Miles Minnick efforts:
It offers a deeper meaning in music, and it checks more boxes sonically.
Lyrical motivation:
From past experiences, important conversations, and from scripture.
Lecrae’s Reconstruction World Tour:
“Slaps for the soul” is the best way to describe my music, so to see me in person you can expect to turn up and have fun in a good, clean environment, while leaving inspired.
Musical inception:
I grew up in a family who did music and were constantly rap battling at the family gatherings, so music has always intrigued me. When I was 15 though, I started free-styling with my friends, and they would tell me how terrible I was…but through consistency and “sticktoitiveness,” I’m where I am today.
Influences:
I grew up in Pittsburg, in the Bay Area. Some of my biggest musical influences are E-40, HBK Gang, Nelly, and Chris Brown.
Style of music:
I make West Coast Hip-Hop, uplifting music, that can shift the atmosphere of any room.
Musical takeaway:
I want people to get inspired from my music, and receive hope to know there’s a living God who loves you even when you feel like you’re alone.
Wish-list collab:
It would definitely be Tupac. Tupac was a West Coast Revolutionary, who still inspires the world to this day. With a short time on this Earth, he’s made a lasting impact.
Dream venue:
Oracle Arena. I grew up going to shows there. Being from the East Bay, that’s our Staples Center or Madison Square Garden. One of my goals is to do a sold out show there within the next two years.
Current state of music:
I’m happy with the direction it’s going. There’s a new appetite for conscious and spirituality that we haven’t seen before. Shout out to people like Kendrick Lamar, who can provide slaps with substance at a high level.
Longevity:
My relationship with God. As long as I have my connection with the Lord, I will always have my “why.” From Him I get direction, inspiration, and a vision for what’s next.
Outside / additional (future) aspirations:
We are in the process of getting back into acting. My goal is to be somewhat like a Tupac. Someone that can put out hit albums and hit movies at the same time.
Biggest career moment:
While being the first solo Christian act to be booked at Rolling Loud is amazing, I would have to say my song, “The Method,” being the top song on the West Coast is currently my favorite.
Average day:
TSA pre-check, sleeping through a flight, posting on social media, jumping on stage, and making (it) back home in time for my son’s basketball practice.
Fan interactions:
Glo Nation is the best fan-base on Earth. Getting spotted in public is always a blessing, and while at first it took some getting used to I embrace those moments to take a picture or talk with them.
Least / most fav parts of workflow:
My favorite part is getting to inspire people with the art God gave me. My least favorite part is having to be away from my family so often. I’d like to be home more often than I am.
Career advice:
Solidify your sound, tell your story, and have a strong strategy.
5-10 years game plan:
In 5 years, I see myself being one of the most influential artists in the world that has pioneered a lane for artists to express their faith while impacting culture.
What’s next:
My album Via Dolorosa, and then I’m going on a nationwide tour with Lecrae this fall. Come see me in a city near you!
“Parting” words:
Glo Fest 2025 was a movie, and I know 2026 is going to be even bigger and better!
