East Tennessee singer-songwriter and worship leader Lily Hooten has released her debut solo album, Promised Land, a 10-track collection that explores faith, grief, life's beauty, and the hope of Heaven. Produced by David Leonard, Brad King, and Collin Healer, the project introduces listeners to Hooten's intimate songwriting and personal approach to Christian indie music.
Written following the passing of her grandfather, Promised Land reflects Hooten's journey through loss and her growing understanding of what it means to place her hope in Jesus. The experience led her to consider life's brevity, the things people cannot hold onto, and the lasting promise of eternity. Rather than offering simple answers to grief, the album embraces the tension between earthly sorrow and the hope found in Christ.
Hooten describes the album's central message as a reminder that the promised land is more than a destination. It is also a promise that shapes how believers live while waiting for what is to come. Through vulnerable storytelling and folk-inspired arrangements, she invites listeners to recognize God's grace and presence even in seasons of uncertainty and loss.
Two previously released singles provide a glimpse into the project's themes. Inspired by the biblical encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman in John 4, "Come Meet the Man" reflects on humanity's search for fulfillment through achievement, talent, and self-reliance. The song points listeners toward the mercy of Jesus, who meets people in their weariness and offers love without demanding perfection.
Her latest single, "Push and Pull," explores the relationship between faith and doubt. Drawing inspiration from Ezekiel 37 and the vision of the valley of dry bones, the song addresses the struggle of being honest about personal difficulties while feeling pressured to appear strong. Its message emphasizes that spiritual renewal begins when people bring their brokenness before God rather than attempting to overcome everything on their own.
At just 21, Hooten has already developed connections within the contemporary worship community, collaborating with worship collectives House Fires and Trust God Bro while receiving mentorship from Will Reagan of United Pursuit. Her music has also gained early recognition across major streaming and social media platforms.
"Come Meet the Man" has garnered more than 7 million Instagram views, reached No. 3 on Spotify's All New Christian & Gospel playlist, and earned a place on Apple Music's New In Christian playlist. Meanwhile, "Push and Pull" has received featured placements on Apple Music's Morning Coffee and Heartstrings playlists.
Rooted in her faith and missionary upbringing, Hooten describes her music as "letters to Jesus," with personal prayers becoming songs that encourage listeners to encounter God in their own experiences. Through Promised Land, she hopes to help people of every generation discover the beauty of Jesus and experience spiritual renewal.
The album's title reflects her desire to live fully in the present while keeping her eyes fixed on Heaven. For Hooten, the songs serve as a reminder to recognize the beauty of everyday life, remain open to God's work, and hold onto the hope of eternity.
Promised Land is available now. Listen to the album here.
Promised Land Track List
-
Draw Me Close
-
Better
-
Push And Pull
-
Promise Land
-
Steady
-
Slow Down
-
Come Meet The Man
-
Sounds Like You And Me
-
Lord Build Me A Cabin
-
Receive The Invitation
Promised Land Tour Dates
-
November 13 - Ozark, AL
-
November 15 - Tallahassee, FL
-
November 16 - Gainesville, FL
-
November 18 - Atlanta, GA
-
November 19 - Chattanooga, TN
About Lily Hooten
Lily Hooten is a 21-year-old singer-songwriter and worship leader from Knoxville, Tennessee. Drawing from her faith and missionary background, she writes deeply personal songs that explore brokenness, healing, and the beauty of following Jesus. Through her music, she hopes to encourage listeners to experience the love of Christ and inspire spiritual renewal across generations.
Follow Lily Hooten:
Instagram | Spotify | Official Website
Related Article: Lily Hooten Announces Debut Album 'Promise Land," Produced by NEEDTOBREATHE's David Leonard
