5 Questions With: Stephanie Haavik

What would you like people to know about you?

I am first and foremost a child of God, a wife, and a mother. I am also an avid songwriter, writing songs of worship and praise as well as inspirational songs uplifting those going through challenging life seasons. As a faithful member of the Maverick City Choir from January 2020 to March 2022 I had the privilege of singing, recording, shooting music videos and performing live with Christian artists such as Crowder, Sinach, Elevation Worship, Tasha Cobbs, Mandisa, We The Kingdom, Leeland, Wilder, Matthew West, and Maverick City Music. As part of the Maverick City Choir I was a part of performing 'song of the year', Way Maker, at the 2020 Dove Awards, opened the 2021 K-Love Fan Awards together with Crowder at the Grand Ole Opry, and performed Jireh at the 2021 Dove Awards. These experiences were sweet gifts from the Father and I am so grateful.

It has long been my dream to write and release the music God has put on my heart. My first single, Holy Spirit Fire, was released in July of 2021. My first EP, Posture, was released in July of 2022. My latest single, Confidence, dropped in September 2023. All of my releases are available on all digital platforms.

When did you decide to pursue music?

Honestly, it's almost as if music has pursued me my whole life. There wasn't a season in my life where music hasn't played a vital role in all aspects. In 2019 I said goodbye to the corporate world in order to devote that time to writing, building relationships with other songwriters and artists, and recording/releasing music. But aside from music as a career, I have been a worship leader since the age of 13. I love Jesus and being in His presence is my favorite place to be. For me, pursuing music means pursuing Him.

What is your favorite scripture and why?

I have several favorites that I consistently circle back to, but Psalm 84 holds an extra special place in my heart, specifically verses 5 - 7. "What joy for those whose strength comes from the LORD, who have set their minds on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. When they walk through the Valley of Weeping, it will become a place of refreshing springs. The autumn rains will clothe it with blessings. They will continue to grow stronger, and each of them will appear before God in Jerusalem." I recently walked through one of the most intense and painful seasons of my life, but it was in this season that I experienced peace and joy like I never have before. I couldn't explain it; it was only Jesus. My strength comes from Him

What would be the most important message that you want to share through music?

Jesus, Jesus, and more Jesus. I desire that every song I release sets the listener's eyes and heart on Him. Our hope is found in Him, He is our peace and strength, and He is forever only good.

What growth do you see coming for yourself and other independent artists as the music landscape changes?

I've learned that we are stronger together. I have built incredible friendships with some amazing songwriters, artists, producers, etc. Genuine relationship without the guise of 'networking'. I'm not saying networking is bad, but community is so much better. The things we indie artists could accomplish if we all had the mindset of serving one another rather than competing, could you imagine? Where a couple of years ago I preferred to write all of my stuff solo, I love inviting other writers to help make each song stronger. In doing that I become stronger.