#4 - Grace + Max on Music, Marriage, and Saying "Yes" to God
Grace + Max share the story behind their relationship, creative collaboration, and the surprising way God turned their side project into a full-time ministry.
In a music world often dominated by solo stars and big band lineups, Grace + Max offer something refreshingly unique–a heartfelt blend of Christ-centered folk-pop built on love, laughter, and genuine partnership. The married duo sat down for an intimate and entertaining chat with NewReleaseToday's Couples Corner, where hosts Danny and Janice dive into everything from rapid-fire relationship quirks to deep spiritual reflections.
From an unexpected meeting at a Nashville open mic night to saying "yes" to God's call to ministry through music, Grace and Max open up about what it means to grow together–as artists, as husband and wife, and as co-laborers in faith. The conversation spans their most meaningful career moments, the joys and challenges of working side-by-side, and the values that anchor their lives: God first, marriage second, ministry third.
Their chemistry is undeniable, their insights honest and inspiring, and their joy infectious. You'll laugh, you'll be encouraged, and most of all, you'll get a deeper glimpse into the heart of their mission. Watch the full interview below and fall in love with Grace + Max–if you haven't already.
How did you two meet and fall in love?
Max: We actually met at an open mic night in Nashville in 2021. I saw Grace and thought, "Wow, she's cute," but also assumed, "She's probably not a Christian."
Grace: I was just there to sing Christian songs–it was a bar, so I didn't expect anything deep to come out of it. When Max started talking to me, I tried to shut it down by saying I did Christian music, hoping it would scare him off. But instead, he got more curious.
Max: I asked her out, and she gave me a chance. We dated for three years and got married last June–almost a year now! It's been such a special journey.
Let's get to know you with some rapid fire relationship questions. Who's the better cook?
Grace: Probably me. We keep it simple, but we do a mean taco salad and a homemade chicken noodle soup with grilled cheese.
Max: And I make smoothies every morning–that counts for something, right?
Who's the better driver?
Max: I think everyone feels like they're the better driver.
Grace: I like when he drives, so I'll give him that title.
Who's funnier?
Grace: I want to say me, but maybe it's him. I mean, he keeps me laughing.
Max: That hesitation says it all. (laughs)
Who snores louder?
Grace: Neither of us snore really–but Max sleep talks, which is hilarious and weird.
Max: Honestly, our golden doodle, Honey, probably snores the loudest.
Who's more romantic?
Grace: Max, hands down. I've never had an empty vase–he brings me flowers constantly, writes notes, and plans dates. He knows I'm big on words of affirmation.
How do you balance work and marriage while touring and making music together?
Max: We treat our music like a 9-to-5 job during the day, then prioritize our marriage in the evenings.
Grace: When we're on the road, we try to carve out moments to reconnect. Our priority list is: God first, then our marriage, then the ministry. If either of the first two is off, we press pause on the rest.
How do you collaborate creatively, especially with different musical backgrounds?
Max: Grace leans more folk, and I bring in a pop influence. I produce our music, so blending our styles has been a cool challenge.
Grace: When we disagree on a sound, we'll use those ideas for our solo projects. Nothing's wasted.
Tell us about a meaningful moment in your music journey.
Grace: One show in Michigan, I felt the Lord tell me to share my story and change a song last minute. It was terrifying, but the impact afterward blew us away. That moment changed my life–it reminded me that God doesn't need our abilities, just our availability.
Max: Writing our song "Jesus Cares" during a tough season of trusting God for provision was also powerful. That song ministers to us as much as anyone.
How do you support each other's growth individually?
Max: Grace told me to say yes to an opportunity that took me on tour just days after our honeymoon. She didn't hesitate–if the Lord calls, you follow.
Grace: And Max is the same way with me. We always say obedience is more important than anything else. It's not about the "Grace and Max Show"–it's about saying yes to Jesus.
How did your duo begin?
Grace: Funny enough, we weren't officially a duo until we were asked to open for Sean Rodriguez. We said "yes" and gave it a shot for the summer. What started as a side project became our full-time ministry.
Max: We thought we'd just try it for fun, but God clearly had other plans–and it's been the best adventure.
Watch the full interview above to hear more from Grace + Max, and be sure to check out their music, merch, and upcoming tour dates at graceandmax.com.
Janice Rigel is a Christian author, speaker, podcast host, comedian and everyone's bestie. She can be found at JourneyWithJanice.com.
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