Mark Wagner

FRIDAY.

I’ve been releasing a lot of new music recently (and producing for other artists), and I just want to take a moment to shout out the people I’ve been working closely with over the past year. I truly have a dream team.

Clint Milburn has been writing, performing, and recording with me for 20 years—and he’s still one of my favorite collaborators. The way he plays always feels like exactly what the song needs. More often than not, he’s the one setting the tone for everything that follows.

Dan Needham is a Nashville legend. He’s played with everyone from Matt Wertz to Michael McDonald, across CCM and pop—and I still kind of can’t believe he says yes when I send him tracks.

Chris Donohue is one of the most genuine humans you’ll ever meet. He makes you feel like a superstar just being around him—and he also happens to be my favorite bass player ever (sorry, Pino 😅). The way he brings the same passion to my songs that he’s brought to some of the biggest artists out there means more than I can say.

Lucianna Gagau is newer to the scene, but wow—she’s special. She volunteered to help lead music at one of our chapel services, and I immediately knew. Her tone, her instincts, the way she delivers… she’s got a bright future ahead.

Ben McAmis has been mixing my records since 2004 (yeah, really). Beyond mixing, he brings keys, guitars, programming—whatever the song needs. He’s worked with artists like Elton John, NEEDTOBREATHE, even on Yellowstone—and he’s been one of my biggest encouragers and closest collaborators for over 20 years.

There are so many others I could mention! I don’t take any of this for granted. Grateful to make music with people I respect this much—and even more grateful to call them friends.