Award-winning worship leaders and songwriters Benjamin William Hastings and Aodhán King have officially released their highly anticipated collaborative album, Happy To Be Here, available now via Anotherland and Capitol CMG.
Born from a unique creative experiment, Happy To Be Here was written and recorded during an intensive 10-day studio session where the longtime friends and collaborators entered the process with minimal preparation, choosing instead to rely on faith, trust, and spontaneity. The result is a deeply personal 12-track collection that captures the honesty, friendship, and spiritual conviction that have defined their creative partnership for years.
Described by both artists as one of the most meaningful projects of their careers, the album explores themes of surrender, hope, gratitude, waiting, and trust in God. At its heart is a simple but profound message: being thankful for the gift of life and the journey that comes with it.
“This is honestly one of our favorite things we’ve ever done,” the artists shared.
For Aodhán King, the project represents the fulfillment of a long-held dream. Having collaborated extensively with Hastings through Hillsong Young & Free, Hillsong UNITED, and their respective solo projects, the opportunity to create something uniquely their own felt both natural and special.
“Hastings is one of my best mates,” King said. “We’ve written so much together over the years with Young & Free, UNITED and each other’s solo projects. We’ve always talked about making something that was just ours. This was that moment.”
Benjamin William Hastings echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the gratitude that shaped the album’s creation.
“We are so thankful for God bringing us all here together. We thank God that we get to do this with our lives,” he said.
The album’s creation required both artists to embrace vulnerability and uncertainty. Entering the studio without a detailed plan meant surrendering expectations and trusting God to guide the process. That willingness to step into the unknown became one of the defining characteristics of the project, resulting in songs that feel authentic, intimate, and deeply reflective.
Happy To Be Here features previously released tracks “Hollow Grave” and “Saturday,” alongside powerful collaborations including “Yahweh” featuring Elevation Worship’s Tiffany Hudson and “Wondrous Cross (When I Survey)” featuring Cody Carnes.
Blending heartfelt worship, thoughtful songwriting, and organic musical chemistry, Happy To Be Here stands as a testament to friendship, faith, and the beauty of creating without fear. The album invites listeners into a space of reflection and gratitude while celebrating the simple yet profound truth of being present in God’s grace.
With Happy To Be Here, Benjamin William Hastings and Aodhán King deliver a worship project that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant, offering a timely reminder that even amid uncertainty, there is always reason to be grateful.