Worship leader turned pastor Tauren Wells: ‘My mission is to call greatness out of others’

The pastor and ‘Hills and valleys’ singer reflects on the voices that shaped him, the disappointment that almost derailed him, and why he believes today’s young men don’t need a platform – they need a father

Grammy-nominated music artist and newly appointed pastor Tauren Wells is riding high. For the millions of fans worldwide who resonate with Wells’ music and message, it may appear the 39-year-old’s journey has been seamless. But the road to right now has been marked by deep challenges and painful rejections.

Wells first came to prominence as the frontman of Christian pop band Royal Tailor (2004-15), which brought its infectious blend of pop, funk and soul to churches and youth events across the USA. Yet despite his passion and musical talent, Wells often found himself misunderstood, especially within the very church communities he was trying to serve.