The Creative Saga of Joshua “Rip” Mallett: Music, Movies, and a Mission from God

The Multifaceted Works of Joshua “Rip” Mallett: A Creative Journey in Music and Film

Joshua Mallett, universally known by his stage name “Rip,” is a highly versatile American recording artist, producer, DJ, and filmmaker hailing from Waukegan, Illinois. His prolific career, spanning over two decades, is marked by a deep commitment to artistic expression, often intertwined with his profound Christian faith.

The Foundation: Rip Records and Early Achievements

Mallett’s entrepreneurial spirit ignited early in his career. While still in high school in March 2000, he independently founded his record label, Rip Records. This venture quickly gained momentum, leading to a significant early achievement: in 2003, Joshua “Rip” Mallett was awarded a Certified Platinum Plaque from the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) and Atlantic Records for his impactful online promotional and marketing efforts for one of their artists. Rip Records recently celebrated its 25th anniversary in March 2025, a testament to its enduring presence in the music industry.

Music: A Journey of Sound and Spirit

Rip’s discography showcases a dynamic blend of hip-hop and Christian rap, reflecting his evolving artistic and spiritual journey. His debut solo album, “Fashionably Late,” was released in June 2010. A pivotal moment arrived with his third studio effort, “Trinity,” released in May 2017. This marked his first overtly faith-based album, exploring themes of struggle, addiction, and his personal relationship with Jesus Christ. “Trinity” garnered significant attention and was considered for GRAMMY Awards in the Best Contemporary Christian Album category, with three songs also considered for Best Contemporary Christian Single. His fourth studio album, “Delivered,” was released in May 2023.

Rip’s collaborations are integral to his musical landscape. He has worked with various artists, and his platform, Rip Records, is a hub for emerging talent. Notably, Rip locked arms with christian hiphop artist Nicky Gracious (Nicky Gracious Music Ministries) in late 2020. Their collaborations have yielded impactful tracks and music videos, including “STUPID” (featuring ASAP Preach), “This I Pray,” and “Get Up.” Both Rip and Nicky Gracious have been recognized as GRAMMY® contenders for their respective works, including Rip’s “Delivered” for Best Music Video and Nicky Gracious’s “This I Pray” and “Stand Up” for Best Contemporary Christian Performance & Song.

Erin Oakley is another artist within the Rip Records ecosystem. An acoustic folk-pop singer, songwriter, and worship leader, Erin Oakley has released music under Rip Records, including her single “Lord Most High” in March 2024. She has shared stages with Rip and Nicky Gracious, indicating a collaborative and supportive environment within the label.

Filmography: Storytelling Through the Lens

Beyond music, Joshua Mallett has established himself as an accomplished filmmaker. His directorial credits include the documentary “The Making of a Sellout” (2013), which delves into the creation of his album “Sellout” and offers a vulnerable look into his life. He also co-directed the film “Giddy Up” (2014), which premiered at the Sundance Cinema in Madison, WI. His involvement in film extends to assisted editing roles, as seen in the documentary “Fraser Syndrome & Me” (2019).

The Latest Chapter: “The Ultimate 90s Movie”

Currently, Joshua Mallett is embarking on his most ambitious film project to date: “The Ultimate 90s Movie.” This independent production is a passion project that aims to blend his love for filmmaking, 90s nostalgia, and his Christian faith. He has been actively seeking support and donations for the film, with a goal to begin filming in late July into August 2025. Mallett envisions this movie as a unique cinematic experience, promising to infuse his creative vision with themes that resonate with his audience, further solidifying his diverse and impactful body of work.

Joshua Mallett, universally known by his stage name “Rip,” is a highly versatile American recording artist, producer, DJ, and filmmaker hailing from Waukegan, Illinois. His prolific career, spanning over two decades, is marked by a deep commitment to artistic expression, often intertwined with his profound Christian faith.

The Foundation: Rip Records and Early Achievements

Mallett’s entrepreneurial spirit ignited early in his career. While still in high school in March 2000, he independently founded his record label, Rip Records. This venture quickly gained momentum, leading to a significant early achievement: in 2003, Joshua “Rip” Mallett was awarded a Certified Platinum Plaque from the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) and Atlantic Records for his impactful online promotional and marketing efforts for one of their artists. Rip Records recently celebrated its 25th anniversary in March 2025, a testament to its enduring presence in the music industry.

Music: A Journey of Sound and Spirit

Rip’s discography showcases a dynamic blend of hip-hop and Christian rap, reflecting his evolving artistic and spiritual journey. His debut solo album, “Fashionably Late,” was released in June 2010. A pivotal moment arrived with his third studio effort, “Trinity,” released in May 2017. This marked his first overtly faith-based album, exploring themes of struggle, addiction, and his personal relationship with Jesus Christ. “Trinity” garnered significant attention and was considered for GRAMMY Awards in the Best Contemporary Christian Album category, with three songs also considered for Best Contemporary Christian Single. His fourth studio album, “Delivered,” was released in May 2023.

Rip’s collaborations are integral to his musical landscape. He has worked with various artists, and his platform, Rip Records, is a hub for emerging talent. Notably, Rip signed Nicky Gracious to Rip Records in late 2020. Their collaborations have yielded impactful tracks and music videos, including “STUPID” (featuring ASAP Preach), “This I Pray,” and “Get Up.” Both Rip and Nicky Gracious have been recognized as GRAMMY® contenders for their respective works, including Rip’s “Delivered” for Best Music Video and Nicky Gracious’s “This I Pray” and “Stand Up” for Best Contemporary Christian Performance & Song.

Erin Oakley is another artist within the Rip Records ecosystem. An acoustic folk-pop singer, songwriter, and worship leader, Erin Oakley has released music under Rip Records, including her single “Lord Most High” in March 2024. She has shared stages with Rip and Nicky Gracious, indicating a collaborative and supportive environment within the label.

Filmography: Storytelling Through the Lens

Beyond music, Joshua Mallett has established himself as an accomplished filmmaker. His directorial credits include the documentary “The Making of a Sellout” (2013), which delves into the creation of his album “Sellout” and offers a vulnerable look into his life. He also co-directed the film “Giddy Up” (2014), which premiered at the Sundance Cinema in Madison, WI. His involvement in film extends to assisted editing roles, as seen in the documentary “Fraser Syndrome & Me” (2019).

The Latest Chapter: “The Ultimate 90s Movie”

Currently, Joshua Mallett is embarking on his most ambitious film project to date: “The Ultimate 90s Movie.” This independent production is a passion project that aims to blend his love for filmmaking, 90s nostalgia, and his Christian faith. He has been actively seeking support and donations for the film, with a goal to begin filming in late July into August 2025. Mallett envisions this movie as a unique cinematic experience, promising to infuse his creative vision with themes that resonate with his audience, further solidifying his diverse and impactful body of work.