Conversations with GG Pender

Today we’d like to introduce you to GG Pender

Hi GG, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Thank you, VoyageATL, for this opportunity—it’s truly a pleasure to connect with you again! My name is Meggan Pender, though most people know me as “GG Pender.” I’m originally from the vibrant city of New Orleans but moved back to Atlanta two years ago after being away for a decade. Atlanta holds a special place in my heart, especially as a proud graduate of Clark Atlanta University, which plays a pivotal role in who I am today.

Recently, I’ve been getting back to pursuing my music and artistry as an R&B/Christian singer-songwriter. I started my music journey in 2017, but in 2019, I stepped away to take a break that unexpectedly stretched into four years. Those four years were hard for me—I didn’t know when or if God would allow me to return to music. However, during that time, I focused on personal growth and deepening my relationship with God, working to understand myself, my purpose, and the true reason behind my passion for music. I’m beyond grateful to be back doing what I love, with a renewed sense of purpose and direction.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Moving back to Atlanta has been instrumental in reigniting my passion, giving me opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. But let me be real—it hasn’t been a smooth ride. When I decided to return, it was a huge leap of faith. I was stepping out of my comfort zone with no clear plan, no job lined up, and leaving behind family and everything familiar.

Starting over meant facing a lot of uncertainty, financial struggles, and the emotional challenge of being far from my support system. Honestly, I didn’t think it would that hard, but I can be naive sometimes. (laughs) On top of that, diving back into music in a new city has had its own set of hurdles. Here I am, starting fresh—without the connections I used to have—trying to juggle making music with basic things like paying the bills and keeping my head above water. Every day feels like a challenge to rediscover my voice and my purpose, but it’s all part of the process. Rebuilding both my craft and my confidence has been humbling, but it’s also reminded me every day why I started this journey in the first place.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m an artist, known as GG Pender, and a Christian/R&B singer-songwriter—though I originally started my journey in R&B. I’m recognized for creating catchy hooks, sweet melodies, and relatable lyrics that truly connect with listeners. Now that I’m back in music, I blend my love for R&B with uplifting messages of love, faith, and hope. Deepening my relationship with God revealed that music is the perfect way to share my journey and inspire others. Ultimately, my goal is to create music that resonates deeply in the souls of those who hear it.

Beyond music, God has also used my voice to spread “His” gospel. Though this wasn’t part of my original plan, I’ve fully embraced it. I believe that no one can truly understand their purpose or reach their full potential without first, establishing a relationship with God. This belief inspired me to start 2ThineOwnSelfBeTrue LLC, a platform designed to encourage others to embrace their true selves, grounded in faith and authenticity.

What sets me apart are my core values. I believe these principles shape everything I do, from my music to how I show up every day in life. It inspires me to live and create with intention. I’m more than just the music I create or how I’m perceived. My identity isn’t defined by external things like appearance, possessions, or achievements—it’s rooted in “Who” I am and “Whose” I am as a child of God. I’m proud to stand firm in my convictions, especially in a world that constantly tries to define us.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My advice? Believe in yourself, no matter what path you choose. Keep God first, trust in His plan, and know that you’re uniquely you —a one-of-a-kind gift to the world. You don’t need to follow trends, pretend to be someone you’re not, or compromise your values to fit in. Stay true to yourself, because that’s where your power lies. When you embrace who you are, you shine brighter and inspire others to do the same. So, stay authentic, stay grounded, and remember your individuality is your greatest asset.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ggpender/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Meggan-Pender/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meggan-pender-71200a56/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ggpender
• Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/gg-pender/1219552294
• Other: https://2thineownselfbetrue.store/

Image Credits
@Matty “Makeitwork” Williams
@TheCamKilla – Raphael Simien