Meet Mike Pennino | Hip-Hop Artist & Pastor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mike Pennino and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mike, let’s talk legacy – what do you want yours to be?
That is such a deep question. I hope that I will be remembered as a man who truly loved the Lord and people. I hope to leave a legacy of love, care, and hard work. I want people to know that I really cared for them (most especially my family members, family in Christ, and friends). I hope to leave a legacy that motivates people to really trust in and follow Jesus, as well as love others. I hope that the legacy I leave behind is one that makes a big impact for God and those who come after me. I want to be known as a loving, faithful, and authentic man who lived his life the best he could for Jesus (who laid down His life for me) and strived to love others as Jesus has loved me. I do hope I leave a legacy that motivates people to be even more faithful, authentic, and loving than I was.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart from other artists, is that it’s authentically me. I’ve been impacted and influenced by artists who I’ve looked up to and enjoyed listening to. However, my goal with my music isn’t to make money. My goal is to glorify God, point people to Jesus, and to bless those who listen to my music. It has not been easy because I’ve had to work really hard to get to where I am at as an artist and I still see more room for growth. It’s not always easy being an artist who represents the Lord, but I don’t let that stop me. I want to reach as many people I can for the Lord and be in position to be used by God to help anyone. I am willing to go to the places and spaces some might find dark or strange or not “Christian.” I want to be where the people are. I want to love others as Jesus has loved me. This is not easy. Honestly my introverted tendencies would have me preferring to stay at home and watch tv, but it’s not about me. And on top of all that, I am a pastor on staff at Vertical Church. There are so many things to share about me and how I got to where I am at today. I am just a dude from Jersey, who has been saved, redeemed, and changed by the Lord Jesus. And I want the whole world to know of His love and freedom.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
That’s a great question. If I was able to save up some money, then I’d say we should definitely go to Myrtle Beach to hang out for the day. Otherwise, I’d say probably going to some of the good restaurants in my area (like a Mexican or Chinese restaurant in town). Possibly going bowling. Maybe even make some plans to go to Fayetteville for the day. There’s a lot more to do in Fayetteville than where I live. But overall, it would depend on what we both enjoy and go from there.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Man… There are so many people who have impacted my life. First, I want to shoutout the Lord, who made me, saved me, and continues to restore me. Next, my parents! I am so grateful for you both Mom and Dad! And I love you both so very much! I also want to shoutout my younger brother Nick and his wife Page! I love you both! I want to also shoutout a few of the pastors who impacted me personally. I would like to shout out Nathaniel Cox, Hector Miray, Donnie Paschall, and Mike Pittman. Thank you for your care, wisdom, and leadership in my life. I want to shoutout my alma mater UNC at Pembroke for my four years of education and experiences God blessed me with there. Musically, I want to shoutout Rodney Goodword for helping me with my first mixtape and for pushing me to be a better artist. Your critiques and feedback have greatly helped me in what I do as an artist. I also want to shoutout Alvarez Malone, Thomas Owens, Nickalos Golden, and Elton Locklear for the help you’ve provided me with creating new music. You guys rock! I also want to shoutout Antwon Lavelle and Xay Hill for all your guys’ support for me as a person and as an artist. I also want to shoutout artists I’ve never met in person who have had an impact on my life and music: Eminem and Lecrae. The list can go on and on. I appreciate every person who has been a part of my life. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without you or God. You all deserve the recognition. My success is your success. Thank you!

Website: https://mikepennino0317.wixsite.com/music

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikepennino/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikepennino

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mikepennino/videos

Other: To find my music on any streaming service, click here: https://fanlink.to/mikepennino

Image Credits
Jordan McGirt, Laurie Kirby, Reagan Moody, VA Bryants Photography, and Sky The Camera Guyy.