By Leah MarieAnn Klett | Assistant Editor
Tuesday, May 20, 2025
Mike Weaver, the beloved lead singer of Big Daddy Weave, is finally opening up about the band’s most personal and heartfelt album yet, Let It Begin—a record born out of immense grief, soul-searching, and the redemptive power of faith.
The long-awaited 15-track album, releasing May 23 via Curb Records, marks the group’s return after a six-year recording hiatus and a series of devastating personal losses, including the death of Mike’s younger brother and bandmate, Jay Weaver. The project stands as a raw chronicle of sorrow, spiritual renewal, and the healing that can only come through Jesus.
“It’s been the biggest uphill album-making process of all time,” said Mike Weaver, 49, in an emotional interview with The Christian Post. “Six years between records is usually the death of a career. But we’ve never really seen this as a career. The Lord has just sustained us, event by event, for 25 years.”
Big Daddy Weave was formed in 1998 at the University of Mobile in Alabama, where Mike studied voice after serving as a worship leader in Pensacola, Florida. Over the past two decades, the band has become a pillar in Christian music, earning Dove Awards, Billboard honors, and a loyal fanbase thanks to hits like “Redeemed” and “My Story.”
However, the journey to Let It Begin has been marked by intense suffering. Jay Weaver passed away in early 2022 due to complications related to COVID-19, following years of severe health battles—including becoming a double amputee in 2016.
“Jay was my best friend,” Mike said. “He was the hub of Big Daddy Weave—not just musically, but spiritually. Even when he was in a wheelchair, he was praying over people and witnessing miracles.”
The album’s most emotional moment is the song “Jaybird,” co-written with Matthew West and Jeff Pardo. Written during a tear-filled writing session, the track pays tribute to Jay’s life and legacy.
“It was terrible, and it was amazing, and it was therapeutic,” Mike shared. “I was dying in every room. But something beautiful came out of the ashes.”
Other tracks like “I’ve Just Seen Too Much” explore themes of spiritual endurance, while the title song “Let It Begin,” written by Matt Maher, provides the emotional framework for the album—ushering listeners into a place of healing and renewal.
Still, joy hasn’t come easily. Mike admitted to struggling with depression even while writing the record. But he also shared that recent life-changing encounters with Jesus have brought deep restoration.
“Joy isn’t just an emotion—it’s a Person,” he said. “Jesus has literally pulled me out of the pit time and time again. He is faithful and true. I’ve experienced the God of that tattoo in Revelation.”
Weaver’s passion for ministry has been reignited through the Let It Begin Tour, which features rising artists Ben Fuller and Megan Woods. A pivotal moment came when Mike met Fuller during one of his darkest days.
“We collided—literally. He hugged me, and something just broke in the best way,” Mike said. “Ben Fuller is a walking revival.”
During one show, Weaver witnessed Fuller pray over a young man struggling with suicidal thoughts. What followed, Mike said, was nothing short of a miracle.
“Jesus changed the color of that kid’s face. It was like watching someone come back to life.”
The new album is not just a musical offering—it’s a message of hope for anyone navigating grief or brokenness.
“Jay would’ve said, ‘Quit bellyaching. I’m with Jesus now,’” Mike joked, reflecting on his brother’s humor. “But he would’ve reminded me to keep this about Jesus. That’s how he lived.”
Weaver emphasized that his story is not one of strength, but surrender.
“I thought I had to have it all together to serve Jesus. But He showed me that I couldn’t—and that’s why He came. That’s the Gospel.”
Let It Begin will be available on all major streaming platforms on May 23, 2025.
The album’s first single, “Let It Begin,” was released on March 15, 2024.
Big Daddy Weave is currently on the spring leg of the Heaven Changes Everything tour, with special guests Hannah Kerr and Austin French.
“If you’re just starting your grief journey, know this: It doesn’t have to stay this way,” Mike said. “Jesus will walk with you. There’s a better day coming.”
