“He’s My Best Friend”: Leanna Crawford on New Album and Life with NBA Star Cody Zeller

Leanna Crawford stands on the cusp of a new chapter. Her debut album, “Still Waters,” is set for release on July 19, marking a significant milestone in her musical career. Known for hits like “Mean Girls” and “Truth I’m Standing On,” she has already made a name in the Christian music scene. But it's her personal life that adds a unique dimension to her story.

Married to NBA center Cody Zeller, Crawford's life is a blend of melodies and basketball. Zeller, standing tall at 6-foot-11, has been a formidable presence in the NBA for over a decade. Their 2023 wedding, featured in People Magazine, was a testament to their love. Crawford even wrote a special song, “Vow to Be Yours,” which she performed on their big day.

Reflecting on their marriage, Crawford shared, “It's been so much fun. I feel like it's been very sweet. We were long-distance until we got married. And even now, with both of us traveling, it's still like that sometimes. But he's my best friend.”

Zeller’s competitive nature adds a playful edge to their relationship. Crawford, at 5-foot-4, often finds herself at a disadvantage in their spontaneous games, but she doesn't mind. “He’s a lot of fun,” she said with a laugh.

“Still Waters” features 14 tracks, including a poignant title track inspired by her great aunt, a woman of unwavering faith who lived to 105. This aunt’s influence runs deep in Crawford's family, leading her mother to Jesus and leaving a lasting legacy.

“She was incredible,” Crawford recalled. “She loved Jesus and people. When she learned she was going blind in her 40s, she decided to memorize the Bible.”

Crawford hopes her music brings hope and reassurance. The title track, based on Psalm 23, offers a message of peace. “When I hear those words, I feel at ease. God's got it. The Lord is my shepherd.”

Her musical calling began at 16 during a mission trip to Haiti. It was there, in the quiet moments before dawn, that she felt a divine nudge towards music. “I had no idea what it meant or how to pursue it. But I kept leading worship and writing songs.”

A chance meeting with a Christian artist in 2016 led her to Nashville, and by 2019, she had signed with Provident. “God just continued to open doors, and I walked through them,” she said.

Crawford’s music is deeply personal, drawn from her own experiences. “If one person is impacted by my music, I'm grateful. I want people to feel seen, to know they belong, and to not feel alone.”

As she prepares to share “Still Waters” with the world, Crawford remains grounded in her faith and love, embodying the harmony of her life’s unique melody.