For Open Mic Week 308, I returned to a space that has always felt like home to me — but this time, it came after a very long and much-needed break from the vibes. Stepping back into it wasn’t just about performing again; it was about reconnecting with purpose, passion, and the quiet place where music becomes more than sound. It becomes prayer.
This week, I chose to perform the timeless hymn “I’m Pressing on the Upward Way,” also known as “Higher Ground.” The song, written by Johnson Oatman Jr. with music composed by Charles H. Gabriel, has always carried a powerful message of spiritual growth and determination. The lyrics speak of leaving behind limitations, striving for higher ground, and moving forward with faith despite obstacles. After my break, I found that the words resonated with me more deeply than ever before.
There are seasons when life slows you down. Seasons when you reflect, reset, and sometimes wrestle silently with your own journey. During my time away from the Open Mic platform, I learned a lot about patience, growth, and consistency. So when I decided to return for Week 308, I didn’t want to just perform any song — I wanted something that truly mirrored my heart. “I’m Pressing on the Upward Way” became that expression.
For this cover, I used the violin as my voice. The violin has a unique way of communicating emotion without saying a single word. Every bow stroke carries feeling — hope, longing, strength, surrender. I approached this rendition gently, allowing the melody to breathe and speak naturally. I wanted the instrumental to feel like a quiet conversation between the soul and God — reflective, sincere, and uplifting.
Playing this hymn on the violin felt symbolic. It reminded me that even when we take breaks, even when we step away, growth is still happening. The upward journey doesn’t stop. We are constantly pressing forward — learning, refining, becoming better versions of ourselves. This performance is not about perfection; it’s about progress.
Open Mic has always been a platform where authenticity shines. Coming back after a long pause taught me that sometimes stepping away strengthens your return. Week 308 represents renewal for me — renewed passion, renewed focus, and renewed commitment to using music as a blessing.
My sincere prayer is that this cover ministers to at least one soul. Whether you are in a season of waiting, rebuilding, or rising again, may this melody remind you that higher ground is still ahead. Keep pressing. Keep believing. Keep climbing.
Thank you for listening, for supporting, and for allowing my violin to speak where words may fall short. May this hymn uplift your heart the way it has uplifted mine.