In today’s world, music serves as a universal language that transcends boundaries and unites people. This becomes especially evident when it melds with faith, creating a powerful platform for change and inspiration. Von Won, a veteran Christian rapper and the pastor of Space City Church in Houston, Texas, embodies this fusion. His journey from secular music to Christian hip-hop has not only transformed his life but also ignited a movement known as Grown & Saved.

A Journey of Faith

Born in the U.S. Virgin Islands and raised in Houston, Von Won ‘s early life was marked by a passion for sports and music. From excelling in athletics, eventually earning a scholarship to Rice University, to an unexpected turn towards music, his path seemed set. However, life threw curveballs his way, including personal losses and career setbacks, leading him into a world of partying and secular music.

Yet, Von Won ‘s true transformation began in a moment of vulnerability—after a near-death experience brought on by a police encounter. This ordeal became his spiritual turning point, leading him to embrace Christianity fully. By April 2007, he found himself at Lakewood Church, where Joel Osteen’s sermon provided the catalyst he needed. With tears streaming down his face, Von Won  committed his life to Christ, setting the stage for his future endeavors.

Building Bridges Through Music

Von Won ‘s conversion didn’t mean the end of his musical journey; instead, it marked a new beginning. Understanding the power of music as a form of ministry, he immediately began integrating his talent into his newfound faith. He fused his secular music influences with Christian values, reaching audiences beyond traditional churchgoers.

In an innovative project, Von Won  collaborated with mainstream artists such as Paul Wall and Bun B, creating a gospel-infused album that peaked at number 27 on the gospel Billboard charts. This endeavor showcased the potential for Christian hip-hop to bridge cultural gaps and serve as a tool for evangelism and transformation.

The Birth of Grown & Saved

Inspired by his past experiences and a calling to aid others on their spiritual journeys, Von Won  founded Grown & Saved. More than just a record label, Grown & Saved is a movement aimed at empowering believers to mature in their faith and lifestyle. It serves as a hub for Christian hip-hop artists who are eager to spread the gospel through music.

With the motto of “being tired of gatekeeping,” Von Won  leverages Grown & Saved to break barriers and foster unity within the Christian music industry. This initiative supports artists with management, booking, and even offers a distribution platform that rivals mainstream alternatives like TuneCore and DistroKid.

Looking to the Future

As Von Won reflects on his journey, he emphasizes the importance of mentorship and community within the Christian hip-hop scene. He calls on veteran artists to pass the baton to the younger generation, ensuring the continuity and growth of this genre. With plans to expand his label and his church’s ministry, Von Won is poised to reach new heights.

The coming years are set to be transformative for Grown & Saved. With strategic releases and continued community support, Von Won and his team are gearing up to amplify the impact of Christian hip-hop. As Von Won often reiterates, the mission is clear: to inspire a movement where faith and culture are intertwined, transforming lives and communities worldwide.

For those interested in joining this movement or learning more about Grown & Saved’s initiatives, visit grownandsaved.com. Follow their journey on social media to stay updated on upcoming music releases and events, as Von Won continues his quest to blend the sacred with the secular in a way that speaks to the heart of every listener.

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TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:56 Von Juan’s Early Life and Love for Music
02:21 College Years and Challenges
03:30 Turning Point: From Secular to Spiritual
06:51 Founding Space City Church
16:33 Grown and Saved: A New Movement
20:33 Expanding CHH Infrastructure
20:56 Challenges and Opportunities in CHH
22:12 Encouraging the Next Generation
23:12 The Vision Behind Grown and Saved
26:45 Empowering Kingdom Entrepreneurs
29:22 Advice for Struggling Artists
34:04 Celebrating Milestones and Future Plans
37:03 How to Get Involved with Grown and Saved