Written by Reese Gorney
For Olivia Noel, a junior at the University of Northwestern, music has always been part of her faith—from roles in various community theater productions to singing in the UNW choir to leading hundreds of fellow students in worship during Praise Chapel. She was recently given the opportunity to carry her gift forward through the production of her first original release, “Cause You’re Mine.”
When Olivia first got the idea for “Cause You’re Mine” during fall semester of 2024, she didn’t know where it would go. Even so, she dropped everything and sat down to write.
“‘Cause You’re Mine’ began as a few verses and a chorus that I wrote on my guitar. I sat on the floor of my dorm room and that’s where it all started.”
– Olivia Noel
Although Olivia could see her song’s potential, she could tell it needed something more. The song remained shelved until the spring of 2025, when an audio production class gave her the opportunity to produce a demo of her own music. With her father’s guidance, Olivia finalized the chords, added an interlude and upped the tempo.
“My goal was to make it fun; I wanted to be able to drive to the song and really enjoy it. Bump to it, if you will.”
– Olivia Noel
With the demo complete, Olivia’s father reached out to his friend, Darren Rust, who has produced for big names such as Michael Bublé and Pentatonix. Rust agreed to collaborate on an official release. The recording itself took place in Nashville, where Olivia was able to work alongside professional instrumentalists. Through it all, she saw the Lord’s hand guiding her experiences. Even when not writing worship songs, Olivia makes it apparent that all her music is rooted in faith.
“Anything can be a ministry, and there are a lot of opportunities for speaking Jesus.”
– Olivia Noel
Olivia is grateful for the support she has received from her friends and family along the way, and is especially grateful for her father, who has always been her best co-star and biggest fan.
“Cause You’re Mine” is now playing on 98.5 HD3 the MEL radio and is also available on Spotify and Apple Music under “Olivia Noel.” If you’d like to see more from Olivia, she is on Instagram under @olivia_noel_music and has an official website at olivianoelmusic.com. She is also excited to be working on an original music video for “Cause You’re Mine,” with the premiere date to be announced soon!
