Michael Sarver Announces New Autobiographical EP 'Layer One,' Out August 21

NASHVILLE, Tenn.
Acclaimed singer/songwriter Michael Sarver is poised for the August 21 release of his highly anticipated Christian music debut set, Layer One. The first of two new EPs on tap for the American Idol alum this fall, the S&G Music Enterprises project showcases seven songs co-penned by Sarver—a collection both stylistically diverse and autobiographically resonant.

Layer One instant-grat track “Storms Don’t Bother Me,” written by Sarver, Matthew Humphrey and Tyler Logan, is an upbeat pop anthem encapsulating the project’s overarching message. Casting doubt and fear aside, Sarver sings with the confidence of a man who knows God’s faithfulness even when the storms of life rage. “With Jesus out on the water with us we have assurance that we will make it to the other side of our circumstance,” he says. “Sometimes God’s power is more incredible to witness while we’re in the fire, knowing He is working all things for our good.”

Additional highlights of Layer One include the newly penned Gospel ballad “Fire,” an ode to the impassioned songs of Sarver’s upbringing in the Pentecostal church; and “Faithful,” an R&B-inspired track showcasing the powerhouse vocalist’s soulful sensibilities. The EP also includes Sarver's popular singles “More Like You,” a poignant plea for authenticity co-written by Sidewalk Prophets’ Dave Frey; the infectious “Count It All Joy”; “Wonderful God,” a heart-cry of worship; and “Limitless,” its soaring chorus celebrating a prodigal’s return: “I cannot change Your Father’s heart/Cause distance never seems too far/And even if it’s all my fault/You forgive me/You’re limitless.”

A Top 10 finalist on Season 8 of American Idol with a string of country singles to his credit, Sarver embraced the call to Christian music in 2025—a conviction that had quietly compelled his heart for many years. “No life is made up of only one story; no journey is made up of only one road traveled,” he explains. “Layer One is the first of two ‘layers’ I’m releasing this fall, sharing through lyrics and a range of musical styles the multiple facets of my life. From the influences of Steven Curtis Chapman to 4Him to the Gaither Vocal Band, these EPs help paint the full picture of what has made me the man and artist that I am today.”

Following the August 21 release of Layer One, Sarver is set to offer Layer Two later this fall, continuing a genre-spanning journey inspired by his musical influences and grounded in an unwavering commitment to share the Gospel through song. Both S&G Music Enterprises EPs will be distributed by WieRise Music.