The Son of God Tour 2014

2014 THE BIBLE: SON OF GOD TOUR REVIEW

     The Son of God movie produced by Roma Downey and Mark Burnett released through 20th Century Fox on February 28, 2014. This portrayal of Christ is different from what many of us witnessed in the Passion of Christ. Most people are aware of what Christ sacrificed for all of us to be given the opportunity to be born again into the Kingdom of Heaven. 

     However, what “Son of God” shows us is another side of Jesus. It shows His compassion for little children in a very sensitive nature. It amplifies His admiration of His closest friends and how He was affected emotionally throughout different aspects of His journey.


     


     You see what many people forget is Jesus walked this earth just like you and me. He was not superman though many to this day still try to mockingly implicate. He was not oblivious to pain, emotionally or physically no matter which angle you view Him from. I believe “Son of God” brings an entirely different perspective to the life that Jesus lived as a servant and a Savior among men, who ultimately crucified Him.

     With the creation of this touching film, a soundtrack was birthed featuring some of the top Christian artists we have come to know and love. Here you can watch the official trailer of the movie and if you have not yet seen it, it's definitely worth your while.  

     Shortly after the release of the motion picture, a tour was announced titled "The Bible: Son of God Tour 2014." Six magnificent groups and artists came together in a gifted tapestry of humble praise and adoration to kick this tour off in Lake Forest, California on March 14, 2014.

     Sixteen shows were scheduled following Lake Forest, coming to a close in Baltimore, Maryland one week before Easter. I can only imagine the journey that each of these artists experienced personally during this Live presentation so full of sacrifice. Not only the sacrifice of the one who gave it all, but also the sacrifice of praise that they so passionately deliver to those who have been blessed to join them for this spectacular night of heartfelt admiration to the one who paid the penalty for our sins on the Cross.


     I had not watched any videos of the event prior to attending, in New Albany, Indiana. Which I think was possibly Louisville, Kentucky. I was totally confused by that at first actually, I guess one half of the church is in Kentucky and the other half is in Indiana.     I’m kidding of course, but my navigation system kept redirecting me and I kept saying “seriously”? At least I was able to go and by the Grace of God, left early enough that with driving issues I still made it in plenty of time for the early VIP entry.

L-R Jason Gray, Natalie Grant, David Frey, my cousin Phoenix, Me,
Meredith Andrews and Chris August

     During the VIP experience each artist would answer different questions asked by guests who were attending the show during the allotted time they had before group pictures. Each VIP was given the opportunity to shake hands with Jason Gray, Meredith Andrews, Natalie Grant, David Frey (lead singer Sidewalk Prophets), Meredith Andrews and Chris August. A volunteer would then snap a photo with the guests and the aforementioned humbly loving crew of talented servants of God. Each VIP member received a tour t-shirt, a singed poster by all the artists and front row seating for the concert, before regular admission.


     Throughout the years that I have written, often times I get the opportunity to re-meet artists which I consider a great honor. I don’t expect any of them to remember me of course. I know they meet new people all the time on the road, but each time I meet them I am always greeted with the same true spirit of brother or sisterly love as they smile and put their hand in mine. It’s funny because I can remember stories from each of the artists I have spoken with that stand out to me that I will never forget. These artists on this tour in particular are so humble that I honestly don’t think they have a clue how talented they are or how many people they touch in their ministry.

     If you missed the opportunity to catch this tour, I will try to paint the picture for you so that you can grasp what unfolded during the evening of April 11, 2014. Though it’s difficult to truly capture the message and the moment, the passion and the fortitude, the conviction and the surrender brought forth from the heart of each individual. I shall do my best to unmask the cross in such a way as they did so you might receive a mustard seed in the garden of your spirit.

     I must mention that I have attended many Christian concerts in my life. This one by far sound wise was untouchable. I am a stickler for lyrics being the most important aspect in Christian music. When you go to many concerts to hear Christian artists, the music is so loud it drowns out what is being said and unintentionally something is lost. When someone’s life is a mess, they need a message that will clean it up. If they can’t understand what you are saying you become a clanging cymbal by default. People cannot receive what they can’t hear. So whoever was in control of the audio on this tour, at least in New Albany, Indiana you get a humongous shout out!

     Secondly, vocally I thought many of them sound better live than they do in the studio and for this group of people that seems hard to believe. However, I am 98% certain that any other person who was in that atmosphere in New Albany, Indiana that evening would completely agree with me.


     With that being said, images from “Son of God” depicting different moments from the movie would play behind them while singing. One by one each artist would take turns either sharing a personal testimony relating to the song they were getting ready to sing or they would personify the Biblical testimony of someone that was getting ready to be demonstrated as a pivotal Biblical example.

     As the concert continued the testimonies and stories shared seemed to get deeper and more intimate. Building faith upon faith for those who have given their lives to Christ and tugging and breaking those hearts who continue to try to run the other direction from His arms. There were two subjects they seemed to touch on which appear to be prevalent in society today.




     One is the thought that we have to fix ourselves before feeling like we are worthy to accept the love and forgiveness of Christ. Second is how some people perceive those who have accepted Christ as Lord and Savior as having it all together. The message of the Cross is simple, yet it is profound.

     Jesus was profound yet He made His decision seem simple, resting on one sentence in prayer, “Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.” Luke 22:42

     You see, we are all broken in different ways. We have pieces of our lives often laid out before us packed away in boxes, or stuffed away in memories we try to erase or forget. Often times these memories are accompanied by shameful accusations the devil tries to place over us to keep us away from seeing the Blood on the Cross.     Many of us have at some point in time battled with self-esteem problems for different reasons doubting our abilities or not being comfortable with ourselves when the Word of God says; 

Psalm 139:14, “I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.”

     

     God doesn’t expect us to be perfect before coming to Him, as a matter of fact touching on the second issue, anyone who says that they are scripture says is lying to Himself. As these artist demonstrated throughout the evening both in personal testimonies and examples of those they were personifying from scriptural experiences no one ever entirely has it all together even after coming to Christ. The difference that we walk in as Christians is that we lay those struggles at the Foot of the Cross.





     Perfection hung on a cross to cover the imperfections of our sins, to wash away the stains of our memories and cleanse us of shame and regret. Through His grace we find strength to overcome the obstacles we face in our lives. The Son of God becomes our navigation system through His word and His love.  He knows every wrong turn we have made. He knows every detour we have had to try to go around and He never has to update His maps. He is the one constant in this life that is never changing.

“I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins.”
Isaiah 43:25

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
John 3:16-17

Son of God CD Review

Review of the Various Artist Contribution to Son Of God Soundtrack

     At the end of this month on February 28th 2014, the anticipated film Son of God will commence in theatres. Highly successful Hollywood producer, Mark Burnett is excited about people in remote areas around the world that will have access to the gospel through this film. He and his wife were “warned” by people not to switch to producing Bible based films, right before creating the acclaimed mini-series The Bible. Currently that same series which got a broad spectrum of viewers in the United States is number one in Hong Kong; and following as the number one series in England on Channel 5. Those who warned them are now choking back dust by the popularity among diverse groups of faith-based morally uplifting positive movies.


     Regardless of religious affiliation people are intrigued by the life of Jesus Christ. Since His walk on Earth, people have been perplexed, blessed, changed and intrigued by the character He portrayed and life that He lived amongst some who followed Him, most who mocked Him, and the majority who crucified Him.

     Word Records has teamed up with the film company, Light workers Media and formed a compilation inspired by The Bible mini-series and the epic film release Son of God on the 28th. Releasing on January 21, 2014 this multiple-award winning artist collection makes an excellent purchase for your listening pleasure. Featuring some familiar Christian Radio tunes along with a few never heard before creations that will surprise you, it’s one that you can leave in rotation for quite some time.

     This album has reaffirmed my applause for the beautiful Francesca Battistelli as she belts out a hauntingly stirring performance in the first track “Oh, Son of God”. I am uncertain if it is on radio or not because I had never heard this song until reviewing the CD but it was like an orchestra in my heart strings. There is a passion that resonates deep in the soul of one who has been made whole in Christ when such evoking melodies are birthed as this.

     Chris August follows in with, “Jesus, Savior”, which is heard broadly on Christian radio. With on spot vocals and lyrics that touch the hearts of listeners you simply cannot lose. “Just call him Jesus, Savior, Son of God; the King of Kings. Our salvation has a name.” He states the simple truth in this song, but it’s the truth that has changed the world.

     One group I have always enjoyed For King & Country, will vocally delight your ears and lyrically touch your heart in their delivery of “Baby Boy”. "As angel’s sing and the Earth rejoices “Endless hope and relentless joy started with a Baby Boy".

     Inspired by the life of Christ, the epic motion picture The Son of God and the mini-series, The Bible, the sequence of this album is spectacular. “He Said” performed by Group1 Crew is a quickening encouragement to all.

     As the body of Christ we go through things that are heartbreaking at times. Things we can’t understand can knock us off course or make us lose sight of the prize that awaits us. “He Said” helps you refocus on the promises of God and the power His Word gives us in our lives.

     One of the most valuable songs for me personally was poetically demonstrated by the sweet and humbly talented Dara Maclean. “Our Only Hope” authenticates the relevance of God and the love of Christ that was personified by God for mankind when He gave Himself for all on the cross in place of our penance. These words speak volumes;

“You’re healer to the broken. Shepherd to the lost. Father to the orphan adopted by the cross. There’s comfort in your arms, it’s where our healing starts. Our only hope is Jesus.”

     Sidewalk Prophets, come barreling out with “Keep Making Me”.  Sometimes when God is getting ready to move us into something greater the enemy wants to jump in and try to steal our faith away by attacking us in areas that are the most important to us. God says in His word that He is closest to those who have a broken and contrite spirit.

   
     This song carries three verses starting with the following pleas, “Make me broken, so I can be healed.” “Make me empty, so I can be filled.” And last but not least, “Make me lonely, so I can be yours.” From a heart that wants to be surrendered fully over to the Lord’s will we come to this place in prayer often not realizing how much we rely emotionally and physically on people and things rather than on God until He answers and begins to let them get taken away.



     Being reformed in Christ is never an easy transition and often times calls for repeat visits in order to renew our hearts and minds in the calling that He places on our lives. He doesn’t call us to a certain position or job; He calls us to become the person we are meant to be in Him. Point of Grace, beautifully echo’s this in “Only Jesus”.



     Repentance is not a once in a lifetime experience at the cross. It is a daily renewing and searching our hearts to make ourselves pure before the unspotted lamb of Christ through forgiveness which only Jesus has the power to give and the spirit to grant lovingly.

     Jason Castro, who recently dropped his dread locks like a hot potato delivers the unwavering “I Believe”. Following the same trust pattern that many of us have had to do in our lives; trusting God no matter what the situation looks like to us carnally.

“And in times of struggle Father this I know. That on this narrow road I never walk alone. And though I don't understand, tell me who can know your plans? And when I cannot see - I believe.”

     Considering I was unfamiliar with the bands, Everfound and Love and the Outcome they were the two biggest surprises for me. One of the reasons I love compilation albums I suppose, is that your musical library gets to check out something new that you are unaware even exists. I am sure I have heard other songs by these talented artists but I never made a connection to their names until now.

     In “God of the Impossible”, Everfound brings a fun revelation to how He can use any of us to do amazing things that even we cannot begin to fathom if we simply believe and are obedient. My favorite part of this song rests in these lyrics.

“Empty bones and a thirsty soul, dreaming for more than the life I have known. Until I tasted a burning coal, and my guilt was erased, and my sin was atoned!”

     Love and the Outcome, also bring a lighthearted joy to the table with "He is With Us." Proclaiming that no matter what may come our way and no matter what storms we face we can trust Our God, for He is with us always. “Our faith is sealed, our hope is real, come what may we’re not afraid”.

     “Jesus Move”, performed by Big Daddy Weave is an engaging call to worship among the saints calling the power of God down upon our lives allowing His love to come alive in each and every one of us for His glory.

     Closing out this affirming classic Meredith Andrews, releases a sweet aroma in “The Gospel Changes Everything.” Jesus made a way so we could all come just as we are to our God. The cross was a rescue mission; for our souls redeemed by the Gospel, which Christ became in the flesh. The Son of God made a way so all could come to the Father through Him.

      Many of the award winning artists on this album will be featured guests on The Bible Tour 2014 starting March 20, 2014 in Lake Forest, California. You can find out more information about purchasing tickets or volunteering for events in your area by visiting The Bible Tour . Until then, I know this album will touch you spiritually and ignite that desire more fervently anticipating the release of this epic film on February 28, 2014.

Kari Jobe Where I Find You Cd Review

     The authenticity that Kari Jobe brings to pure intimate worship sets her apart from the contemporary Christian music industry. It is what has drawn such a hungering fan base toward her music ministry and created tremendous turn outs at conferences where she can be found leading others into the shekinah glory of Almighty God.

     Ministry has surrounded Kari since she was a little girl. She began sharing her gift at the tender age of three and continues to be highly involved in leading worship at Gateway Church. Christ For the Nations was a turning point for Kari as elders saw something different in her spirit that stood out from others. Thankfully, they pointed Kari in a direction that has brought her gift to the world.

     On January 24, 2012 Sparrow Records will introduce her second album release Where I Find You. In the midst of the new sound she brings to this album a few are reminiscent of her first self-titled release. Though the message remains the same throughout, musically you are reminded of contemporary artist like Britt Nicole and Natalie Grant.

   "After singing about the importance of making time for intimate worship on my first album, I wanted to take the next step on Where I Find You. These songs come from such a honest place of praising God for what He’s done—and what He’s continuing to do in our lives—because of His grace and goodness. "

     The personal visitation that Kari experienced during the recording sessions is one of the things she hopes to transfer into the heart of others. "There were many instances when we had to stop whatever we were working on because I needed to go outside, take a walk and have my own time with God for a few minutes," Kari remembers. "Again and again, I was so overtaken by how present He was while we were recording, and it’s my hope and desire that people really feel the strength and intercession that was taking place while I worked on the album."

     I do believe there are several songs on Where I find you that will eventually be climbing the charts on the waves of Klove Radio and hundreds of other local Christian radio stations. We Are, has already proven to be productive and well accepted by the general status quo of contemporary worship. Steady My Heart and Run To You are also very similar in sound conveying a message of relying on God to calm us in the midst of the storm when we run to Him.

     When it comes down to sharing the love and intimacy of Christ Kari feels that sometimes it’s best to abide, simply knowing He is there.

"Ultimately, it’s about declaring who He is and enjoying the simplicity of knowing the Lord is near. He’s for us, He loves us, and sometimes, we need to just stop, enjoy His presence and take that in."

     There are two tracks that really bring this sentiment to heart and awaken the need to first seek Him, then abide in Him. Find You On My Knees is a proclamation to God that no matter what predicament we may be in, we will find as we kneel before Him that He is there holding us and carrying us through. On Saviors Here Kari brings us to remembrance of all He has done for us in a very passionate way. "You have saved us, You have won. Sin is broken, death is gone Freedom's found us, breakthrough's near In Your presence, no more fear"

When Kari sings, I believe you can almost hear her smiling at times. In the songs Rise and Stars In The Sky this seems to be the case. We Exalt Your Name is a tribute to God, featuring Matt Maher. The harmony is crisp and beautiful in this masterpiece that builds to an all satisfying conclusion. Personally I would love to hear Kari and Chris August sing Stars in the sky as a duet. Hearing the harmony that she and Matt shared on We exalt your name has me curious to see what she could create teamed up with other talented male vocalists.

     Sometimes in this life we can all get a little weary, when hardship arises or sorrow seems to weigh us down. In the song, Love Came Down Kari reminds us that His love always rescues us simply because we are always His. As long as we stay desperate for Him, and kneel humbly at His feet with lifted hands and broken hearts, He always will send His love down to lift us up again.

     As Kari begins to step out in faith and take the road of contemporary music I believe she will begin to pick up a new fan base. For those who are traditional modern worship enthusiasts who tend to lean toward artists like Amy Grant, Bethany Dillon and Kathryn Scott, picking up a copy of Kari’s new release will be mandatory in their lives.

     On the other side of the spectrum lies in wait those who know and love Kari for what she does best and that is pure, intimate and divine worship. Those who are looking forward to this side of Kari will find spirit filled messages in, One Desire, What Love Is This and Here.  All three of these songs really showcase the pure beauty that is produced through the gift of singing that God has given Kari. The instruments behind her voice are light and angelic offering her talent to truly shine through in these gentle storytelling productions.

     Those who are familiar with her live worship will most likely have One Desire on repeat during prayer time and meditation. "In your presence Lord, I will find my strength. You’re the breath in me, you’re my everything. With my heart bowed low and my hands held high; all consuming fire, you’re my one desire".

     Towards the end of this song, you can feel Kari pushing her vocals while encouraging herself which develops into what I feel is the best produced song on the album.

     I believe Kari has only begun her journey in the Christian music industry and she is currently on her way to being the next Amy Grant. With a heart of a servant she carries the love of God on her sleeve. She has also created a line of A21 Jewelry with her sister Kris where all proceeds go directly toward a program created to end human trafficking and injustice.

"Whether I’m participating in an effort like this or leading worship, it’s all about making a difference," Kari concludes. "That’s the reason I’m doing what I’m doing at this specific moment—to see God’s name lifted high, to encourage the hurt and the broken and to remind everyone to draw close to Him because He really, truly does care about each and every one of His children."

     On January 6th of this year, joining several other gifted musicians and artists Kari will venture out on a four month tour to bring us the annual highly anticipated Winter Jam Tour. For more information about the line up and if they will be visiting a location near you check out their website, Winter Jam Tour.

 

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Kristian Binion EP Review

     As a Christian music enthusiast, I often run across an individual or a band that has yet to be discovered by others. However, it is a rare moment when my ears are pleased and my heart is touched. On one such occasion I was relaxing at home watching Reflections. Daystar produces this television program which showcases nature-loving videos with scripture notes accompanied with mostly instrumental melodies.

     On this one specific night I had my eyes closed and suddenly this voice began to awaken and touch my soul. Then the message began to sink in and I had to rewind it to find out who it was. When they first started singing he reminded me slightly of Chris August but as the song continued it was more like the style of Jason Upton. It was melodically and lyrically beautiful. To my delight the person’s name was a mystery causing me to speak to myself like I was Sherlock Holmes.

     Kristian Binion was the answer to the riddle at that moment and God is the master of his talent. A graduate from Christ For The Nations International, he learned early on what the significance of a close relationship with Jesus Christ brings to writing. With gifted musicians like Kari Jobe and others you have to wonder, what does this University instill in their students that other colleges do not?

     I received his current EP, which sadly only includes three songs. The first single on the album is the notable song I heard that evening and title of the EP, Pieces. It speaks about how fragile we are and how often times we don’t feel worthy of repair. However, God sees us as a moldable project as He restores us and makes us new.

     This song really touched my heart as I sit discovering this artist as he moved my spirit. It is so personal and speaks to those who have a broken and contrite heart. At some point we all experience moments of heartbreak and desperation. It could be the loss of a loved one or a feeling of rejection. It could also be backslider who was once close to God who has fallen and is trying to find their way back. All of these scenarios fit the message, along with many others I have not mentioned. The closing segment is one of the most powerful lyrics I have heard recently. "When this world pushes my heart to break. But every piece of it sings your praise. If it takes falling to see your face, then somebody push me for Heavens sake."

     Kristian’s heart is all about making God famous and hoping his worship will touch someone that needs to know that God is the answer to every problem they will ever face. We all have broken pieces or areas the world has vexed us in and if we turn everything over to Him, He can make something out of us to use for His glory. I have found myself asking God to keep me broken so that I never want to leave His side. Being near to God at all times is vital to our spiritual health and growth.

     I cannot express to you how gifted this young man is. You just have to be inclined to discover him for yourself. I do believe that he has a huge future ahead of him musically and spiritually leading people in worship and to a closer walk with Christ through his ministry.

     The second song on the release is titled Narrow Way. This is a message that is urgent for the Body of Christ today and the title is exactly what it is about. Many people today are on the broad path that leads to destruction. They have been tossed about with every wind of doctrine and spoon fed grace to a point they feel a personal relationship and repentance is not required of them. Kristian lays his heart on the floor before the Lord in this beautiful adoration of a man desiring to exemplify Christ. "I wanna say what you would say. I wanna love the same way. Until everything I do is a reflection of you. I will follow the path you’ve made along the narrow way. There’s a ladder you can climb to pull yourself up to the sky. But you will be sure to find you will fall if you get to high. But that ladder it leads back down where the humble and broken are found."

     After listening to the third song Strong Tower, I was extremely unsettled about the fact that there were no more for me to listen to. This song brought out a different sound from Kristian and I had a hard time deciding which I liked better. It was at that point that I decided God’s perfect number is three and this EP is one hundred and ten percent fascinating. That being said I am looking forward to seeing what God has in store for this extraordinarily gifted young man.

     Eager to see how long I was going to have to wait to hear more from Kristian, I asked him when he was going to bless us all with a full length album.

     Kristian - "I’m currently writing new songs to go along with a lot more that didn’t make the EP. I am praying and believing God for a full-length record someday. I know it will happen in His timing. Meanwhile, I plan to start recording some acoustic videos of new songs that God has given me. Those should be coming very soon!"

     As someone who is passionate about writing for God I asked what advice Kristian would share with others who have a dream to sing and minister and to share God with others in song.

     Kristian - "I would say don’t ever let anything stop you! Not even yourself! I struggled for a long time with not feeling adequate or good enough. It wasn’t until I surrendered to God and stopped worrying about what people thought. I started reading the word and seeking Him and God started dropping songs in my heart. I would tell God how you feel, ask Him to write through you. It may not come right away but God is faithful and He will begin to birth songs in your heart that will draw people to Him."

     Today you see a lot of youth struggling with choices either to fit in at school or with their friends outside of school. They are willing often times to sacrifice the gifts God has placed in them to use for His Kingdom for momentary popularity. As a young man himself growing up with the temptations and trials of youth I was curious what or who influenced him to lay everything at the cross and truly walk with Christ.

      Kristian - " I would have to say my Grandfather, V.R. Mitchell. I was going through a time in my life where I was not really living completely for God. I mean, I loved God and I knew how to act and knew what to say to make it seem like we were close. But in reality I was riding the fence. While I was visiting with my Grandfather one day it was like he knew exactly what was going on. But he didn’t give me a speech or tell me I was a sinner. He just very calmly grabbed my hand looked me straight in the eyes as I was leaving and said "Son, Grab a hold of Jesus and don’t ever let him Go!" That’s all he said but it was all I needed! Instantly I knew it was God speaking through him. And I will never forget that moment the rest of my life! That is what I would say to a young person who is struggling to fit in. DON’T FIT IN! Grab a hold Of Jesus and don’t ever let Go! It’s not always easy and we are human. We will mess up. But don’t ever forget to cling to Jesus it’s the only way to make it."

     Kristian is right we are human and we all mess up, but one thing is for certain he did everything right on this EP. Check it out for yourself and take advantage of being the first person to share his music with someone else. Trust me when I say don’t let someone else steal your blessing from doing so. I hope and pray that this review may open doors for Kristian to explore that full-length album because I personally don’t know how long I can wait to hear it.

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     I would like to personally give special recognition for musicians, mixers and producers who made Pieces what it is. Thank you Daniel Lopez, Will Coleman, Josh Dufrene and Gregg Dunham for assisting Kristian by making this EP available.

 

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Chris August Spoke With me About His Journey and His Music

Chris August Interview

Before the 2011 Dove Awards

     Chris August delivered a masterpiece of emotion to the music industry with his release of "No Far Away".

    
     With smashing hits like "7 X 70",

birthed out of his heart by memories of his parents divorce and "Starry Night" which was musically crafted the night he rededicated his life to the Lord in his bedroom. Chris, is definitely a gifted young man who also carries with him three wins from his five nominations at the 2011 42 annual Dove Awards.            
     A few hours before being chosen New Artist of the Year, Male vocalist of the Year and winning Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year; Chris took a few moments to talk with me about his plans for a new album, the beards of grown men and nerf footballs.

    Of course we talked about other things too. Thankfully, not a single one of them correlate, but at this moment they are what stands out in my mind.

     Many times we learn to love music and never know the person who is actually singing the songs we love so much. I explained to Chris, how that was the case for me in regards to his releases.

Chris: "Oh yeah, I totally understand that. You know I am a New Artist so that is pretty much a given. People just know (singing) "Every starry night that was His design".

     Before the Dove Award recipients were actually announced I asked Chris how he felt about being nominated in five different categories.


Chris: "Well, you know it does put the pressure on me. No, I am kidding. There is no pressure. It is just fun. Actually, I was actually asleep when I found out because it was early in the morning. My phone started going crazy at around eight or nine and I was like what is going on? When I saw what everyone was sending me I was thinking someone made a mistake! However, I thank them and appreciate them for that mistake. I look at this as a ministry not just a job, so the award thing is not that big of a deal. 

     We do this to encourage people and to get the message out there. But like any job if you work hard at something you get a bonus or recognized for your hard work. This is something I have been working really hard at for many, many years. To have someone say "Hey, we recognize what you are doing" and to be in the same sentence as some of other artists like Chris Tomlin I am thinking are you kidding? These are people that have inspired me with their songs and encouraged me, which is exactly what I am hoping I am doing for someone else. I woke up today so early, like it was Christmas morning, like when I slept under the Christmas tree when I was five years old. Also getting to see all my friends and hang out with the other artists it’s just such a great time."

     Chris has a busy schedule for the remainder of the year doing several summer festivals. He will also be joining The David Crowder Band, Gungor and John Mark McMillian for The 7 Tour .  Chris could not actually tell me about this tour when I spoke to him because it had not been publicly released but he did share with me how excited he was about it.

Chris: "I will tell you this much, even if I was not going to a part of the show I would definitely be attending it because there are some truly amazing artists going to be there. This is thee number one tour that I would want to go to. As a fan of music this is where I would want to be. It’s not because I am going to be there, definitely not because of me I will probably just try to make people laugh or something."

Question: "So who are some of your musical influences?"

Chris: "One of the new artists that I love is Audrey Assad. I have been listening to her record all the time lately and she has such an anointing on her and I just love it. I love her songs, I love her voice and she is an amazing woman. It’s been a real pleasure getting to hang with her too and she is just so kind and funny. Chris Tomlin is another person that I really like. People that really put their best effort into what they are doing. I respect that. Some people just say, "Oh God’s given me this gift", but you still have to harness it and practice and work and really care about the craft of it. If you look at the David Crowder Band they work extremely hard on their stuff. I respect that more than anything, I thank you for putting all you are into what you do. We should be making the best stuff because we are making music to glorify God, let’s make it the best because He deserves that. I really enjoy the whole Passion Crew as well and one of my goals is to actually sing on a Passion album. I don’t know if that would ever happen, but if it did I definitely wouldn’t mind. (Chris speaking into my recorder) "Hello Louis are you out there?")

Question: "You have traveled with a lot of bands. During that time when do you think God was calling you step out and share your passion in your voice?"
                                                                                                        Chris: "Yeah I traveled a lot playing keys for people and
stuff. To be honest I love just writing songs and producing songs. I always felt like I was an artist also, but never on the magnitude that arose through the release of "Starry Night". It got out there and next thing I know I am going places singing it and everyone knows the song. 

     To have a song that plays on the radio is a very weird thing to me. When you go places and you are in a random city and everyone knows a song by you written on such a personal level. It’s cool that God takes such honest little moments we experience as individuals and He will use them to encourage and give hope to others. For me I have always wanted to do it, but "Starry night" created that pathway and next thing you know I was picked up by a record label and I am going everywhere now and just singing my heart out to people."

Question:"What is the hardest and the most encouraging situation as a Christian artist you have had to deal with?"

Chris: "Well, they are very close together. I am just gonna let you in on my life. I love meeting people after shows and hearing their stories for me that is the most encouraging thing, we will start there. Just having people tell you what your song has meant to them or I just love hearing people’s stories even if it doesn’t have anything to do with my songs. Just hearing where they are at in their walk with God cause we are all walking this out.

     The most difficult situation is (pause) you know the line of people that I meet usually consists of younger people. People who are in high school or whatever and they want to get your autograph. 

     Then every once in awhile there will be a grown man. Which, I will meet anyone cause I love to hear people’s stories. However, they will give me a hug in a sense that his cheek is touching my cheek and I just don’t know; the comfort level I have when beard is touching beard you know for me it's just a difficult situation for me. But I don’t say anything you know, I just close my eyes and think of something good like sports or something."

     I was trying to maintain my composure as to not fall on the floor laughing, not because it was not a relevant difficult situation it was just one that I had never heard of before and was not expecting. Chris noticed that I was having a tough time not laughing and tried to help me relax into yet another moment of joy.

Chris: "Yeah, you really don’t expect that answer right? But I am just trying to tell you the truth."

Me: "Yeah, it’s all good you are just being real."

Chris: "Yes, I am just being real. Cause as an artist, why would you want me to come here and just give you all the answers that everyone else gave you? This is what is difficult to me; it’s when grown men put their beards to my beard. (Me still cracking up) So, if you are out there and you are a grown man with a beard I will give you a hug just don’t put your face on my face. I just feel weird about it and I have to tell you."

Question: "Looking back on your career, what do you think you would be doing if you were not where you are now."


Chris: "I would be a teacher. I still see myself maybe later on in life working with young people that are trying to get involved in music. Really just help them learn how to harness that gift and grow in it.

Chris with Emmanuel Baptist Church Student Ministry from Henderson, Texas

     That is the one thing about doing Christian music, I have always been very involved in any Church that I have been in. Since I am on the road so much I have actually only been able to go to my home church in Nashville probably twice since May. I miss that, but at the same time what is cool is that I am able to go to a bunch of churches around the country and teach them and invest in those kids."

I asked Chris what he thought his next release was going to be and his mind was already spinning around his next album, he was way passed the next single.

Chris: "When? Oh, you mean what. Yes, I am sorry. The label keeps telling me to slow down but I am excited about the NEXT album. However, the next release off this album is going to be a song called "Battle". I really love the message in that song so I am super excited about that one being released."

Battle Performed Live and you can catch some of his humor here too- great guy!

Question: "What CD do you have playing in your car right now?"

Chris: "My favorite CD of all time. I love it so much is John Mayer-Continuum. I have come back to it again because I really want to model my next record along the lines of that. By that I don’t mean I am going to copy it, but I am letting it influence me and get into my bones."

Me With Chris in Atlanta Prior to the
Dove Awards 2011

     Under the realization that I was probably the hundredth person that Chris had interviewed with that day I wanted to give him the opportunity to reveal something to his fans that only he could do. I asked him what was one question he wished someone would ask him that had not been asked yet. Well fans and fellow brothers and sisters in Christ this is a way you can impact his life!

Chris: "A lot of people might want to know just regular things that I am into. How I might just spend my free time, but usually at interviews you don’t really get asked that because it is not really a digging type question, but people really are interested in that. They are curious what we do when we are not working on music. And the answer is simply more music. (Pause) Just kidding. I love sports! I always tell people if you come to a show, bring a nerf football with you. I will probably have my nerf football with me and we can just toss it around. I like to watch and play sports. I am from Dallas originally, so therefore Cowboys, Mavericks and Rangers you better watch out, if you say something against them you might hurt my feelings."

     So there you have it! All those festivals and tours coming up this year go get you a nerf football to take with you. Maybe you could write a message of encouragement and hope on it and throw them back and forth during the show I think that would make his day! Just don’t say anything bad about them Dallas teams!

     With January 2012 recording plans for the new album, which he intends on covering a Stevie Wonder song, called Love's in Need of Love Today. We can only anticipate and hope that the new year brings Chris to the next level of grace and he continues to pour out his heart in his music. Sharing his love and joy with the nations and speaking one on one to our hearts through his gift of adoration to our Father.

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