Rock The Smokies First Year

Dollywood's 2015 Music Festival Introduction

     I have been to a lot of music festivals in my life including other adventure parks like  Night Of Joy at Walt Disneyworld, and Spirit Song  at Kings Island. 

      One thing I have noticed about all of these set-ups is that each band does not get recognized on the same level nor do the fans get to experience all the talent that is distributed across the parks at different times throughout the day making it almost impossible to take part in each concert. 

     As a music lover I am always enlightened at concerts in general being introduced to less known artists besides the headliner who later become massively popular.  For instance two years ago at a Casting Crowns concert the opening band was For King&Country.  The following year (2015) they swooped into the Klove Fan Awards and cleaned house.

     My point in mentioning this is that when fans of well-known bands are eager to listen to the artists whose songs they know by heart are not given the opportunity to experience newer talent, that window of exposure to the other bands is stolen both from the fans and the artists.

     I do not know if all of these festival planners are aware the difficulty that can arise for a visitor trying to determine who they want to miss and who they want to see perform.  The most organized of the three I mentioned above is Spirit Fest because it's a three day event that gives you the opportunity to enjoy all the shows and the park. 

     The Night Of Joy is set up a little better than Rock The Smokies, because it is at least broken up into two nights giving guests two full days to enjoy the park, at least that's how it was when I experienced it.  

     In 2014 when I attended the Night of Joy I wanted to see Chris Tomlin perform because I have always been a fan of his music.  I had also recently written a review of The Neverclaim's new album and had become a quick fan of them as well.   Unfortunately they were both playing at the same time on different sides of the park.  I decided to go see Chris Tomlin who was playing in front of the castle.  The downside to that decision was everyone else that was there decided to do the same thing and not only could we not see him, but we couldn't hear him either.  So we decided to head back to the small stage where Matt Maher and The Neverclaim were performing.  We stood right in the front and it was honestly one of the the best concerts I've been to. 

     The most disheartening thing of that is that everyone out by the castle trying their hardest to see or hear the amazing Chris Tomlin missed two other great performances because of the timing and set up. 

    

     One of the things I will give Rock The Smokies credit for was that at least they had different time slots throughout the day where each band played at different times to give people a slight chance to catch at least three out of the five bands performing as long as you didn't want to ride any of the rides or eat any food. 



    

     I apologize if that came off sounding sarcastic but it is the truth of the matter.  The two headlining bands Third Day and For King & Country was the only show the tickets guaranteed you a seat for, and it was first come first serve at all three show times (above) so if you wanted to be close at all you had to get in a long line waiting for the doors to open each time.

      However, if you wanted to see the other non-headlining concerts including Love and the Outcome , Sidewalk Prophets or About A Mile you had to cross your fingers, jump through hoops and stand in line for about an hour just to get a seat.  Of course if you waited in line the whole time (not eating or riding rides) and you still couldn't get in you always have another chance to come back to one of the other time slots to try to make the cut. 

     Despite the fact I was unable to catch Love & The Outcome I heard from a friend that they put on a great concert.  Captured below by Dave Lobbestael Photography.

Photo By Dave Lobbestael Photography

     During one of the times we decided to try and catch the new roller coaster and grab a bite to eat we walked passed About A Mile post show signing autographs.  A little further we saw about two hundred people standing in line an hour early for one of the Sidewalk Prophets concerts hoping to get in.  I have no idea what About A Mile (below) was like in concert but I'm sure others would have liked to have seen them too that missed the opportunity due to time constraints.  

Photo By Dave Lobbestael Photography

      We arrived an hour early for the Sidewalk Prophets concert we had planned to attend. Right when we got to the entrance, (literally next in line) the lady holds her hand out at me and my crew and says, "One second we have to see if we have any more room."  I looked at my husband like "Really?  Seriously?" I knew we would not be able to make it to the other later show because we had to get in line for the 7 pm finale of the headliners. Thankfully, they let about fifteen more people in and Sidewalk Prophets delivered as always. 

Photo By Dave Lobbestael Photography 

     I do want to say that Dollywood is a lovely park and there are several different rides and places to eat if you get a chance to visit.  One of the things I would highly recommend to the promotions department to do differently next year would be entirely based on organization.  

     The line up they had of bands was fantastic and I would have loved to have been able to see all of them.  Along with many others I would have also liked to enjoy the park more.  I think it would have worked out a lot better if they had split the festival up into two days similar to the way Night Of Joy does. The first day have two separate shows one in the morning and one in the evening.  Have every band at both shows, that way the fans and the artists don't miss any opportunity to experience or share music.  

     The second day have one final show that evening with all the bands performing as well.  Sell the tickets as a two day package with entry to 1 of the 3 shows that way for those who want to enjoy the park they can, it would also give the bands some time to rest and enjoy the park.  Some promoters may be surprised that one of the most important things to some of the Christian artists is to be able to spend quality time meeting their fans, this set up didn't really allow for that. My two cents on that note.

     Despite being extremely tired from performing 3 shows throughout the day pretty much back to back, For King & Country didn't win best live performance at the K-love fan awards for no reason.  They entered that main stage at 7 PM and literally "Rocked The Smokies".  

     I have no idea how these guys have so much energy but they are just a treat to watch perform.  Not to mention the fact that they are some of the most passionate in the industry.  Joel was speaking about how they have a bracelet to remind girls how beautiful they are and never to forget how much they are worth to God.  He so happened to jump off stage and give a bracelet to my friend Pam's daughter, Reenie. He couldn't have picked a more deserving recipient! 

     To close the last and final show of the evening Third Day entered stage and performed to a very tired crowd. Everyone seemed to be pretty wiped out by that point walking around in the heat and rain all day trying to make it to all the shows.  However, bottom line they encouraged everyone and got everyone back up on their feet for one last celebration.  

     Being the first year of this festival things went fairly smooth. I'm sure the planners and promoters ran into many different aspects that they themselves seen areas for improvement on.  I would imagine they are already tweaking it for next year trying to figure out a better way to plan everything out.  

     After all was said and done, the bands probably all slept like little babies that night and all those who attended left filled up with all the love and joy that overflows from all of the artists that shared their gifts and talents musically with everyone who attended the festival.  

      I am personally looking forward to seeing what they plan out for next year and I hope to get to return.  Until then, check out the park, a lot is there for all to enjoy!

Get Tickets to Dollywood Here

 Rock The Smokies

The Neverclaim Has Claimed a New Fan

The Neverclaim- Self-Title Album Review

     For six down to earth Oregon folk September 24, 2013 marks the start of a life changing adventure. Their self-titled Essential Records debut is also bound to change the lives of those who hear it as well.

     The Neverclaim, was formed out of the Vineyard church worship movement through the penmanship of lead singer Jeremiah Carlson.

With a heart of worship this diverse team of people unified for the purpose to enable others to have a rich encounter with God. Their first EP was produced by the Vineyard Music label in 2010 titled “Quiet down”

     Gaining a fan base before signing with Essential, this group recognizes they were not brought together by chance but have a higher calling on their lives spreading revival through music. Along their journey they won a talent contest held by the national radio network, Spirit FM. This brought about an opportunity to open for many bands on tour such as Kutless, Third Day and Shawn McDonald. Mac Powell introduced them toEssential and the rest is creation in motion.

     There latest single, One Truth, One Life (official video below) which was released toward the end of July, 2013 has gotten rave reviews from listeners. This song is a feel good anthem around the truth and life that we find in Christ.

 

 “His love lights the way, His truth will break down every lie, as His children proclaim His name.”

     Revival, is a genuine heartfelt cry to stir the saints of God to rise and shout proclaiming the gospel of Christ. “We were made for such a time as this. When every knee will bow and tongue confess, Jesus Christ for who He really is.” A Hook laden melody and outstanding message that awakens the spirit of the believer, this song is certain to be on repeat in your heart and in your car.

     I believe as the band continues to go out on tour, fans will truly enjoy hearing certain songs live. Burn ranks up there in my books as being one of those corporately anointed worship songs that is just going to illuminate the presence of God in people’s lives across the Nations. I could listen to this song over and over and never get tired of it because it’s a longing for God to burn inside your heart and it stirs that fire inside your soul.

     I have had a difficult time selecting a favorite song on this album simply because they are all fantastic. However, the first one that brought tears to my eyes, Steal Their Hearts has got to be up there somewhere.

 

“I’ll try to lead them by your truth. I’ll tell them life is found in you. But even that won’t be enough, because only you can reveal your love.”

 

  

     I am certain if you have loved ones who you know could be healed of their brokenness only if they would surrender this song will have the same effect on you.

     One of the reasons why we desire loved ones and friends to know theLord is because we long to share Eternity with them. My Soul Longs, is a celebration of that desire that we know one day we will see come to pass.

“He’s coming back for His Bride, Hallelujah!”

 

     I can see this being incorporated into many worship services and guaranteed to be a live favorite by the band on tour. God’s children love to celebrate truth and this is a corporate anointed party in the spirit.

     Sweet Sweet Mercies is another song that could be easily incorporated into a worship service, it is tender enough to melt your heart, but is powerful enough to have a Jesus and I jam session in your car not caring who is watching you. Not like I did that personally or anything just saying; Ok, yeah maybe I did.   Jeremiah (lead singer), who has struggled in the past with issues of anxiety, penned this phenomenal tune with those memories in mind. “I’m letting go of what I can’t control. I’m giving up this desperate life, Lord I’m letting go. Down on my knees; so I can see that you are here, and now I know. Your sweet, sweet mercies come and overflow.”

     The mercy of Christ comes with an intense price that was paid by His sacrifice. Pearl of Great Price, will immerse you in the depths of the sovereignty that we are covered by. I cannot listen to this song without crying. My heart is awakened to the untouchable love that He displayed that day for you and I and how nothing compares to the treasure of His life.

     Sometimes people are unable to see the gift of life in Christ because they won’t open the door to Him, instead they try to stand on their own. Mighty Jesus, is a poetic transformation of a heart that no longer depends on anything but Christ. “Upon this solid rock I will stand. On you and you alone I will stand. When everything around falls apart, I will stand.”This anthem for Christ is passionate and impeccable.

     Be Lifted Higher, is probably the song I enjoy listening to the most on the album. Though it has been extremely difficult to narrow it down to a favorite, this song just fills my spirit to the brim overflowing with adoration of the King of Kings. This CD should have a warning label on the side of it that reads, “Be careful while operating a vehicle under the influence of The Neverclaim.”

     The last song to mention is Enthroned on High. Worshiping the Lord, God above all with everything that is within’ is what this song encompasses. “I’m going to bring all that I am to the one who makes me whole. There you are enthroned on high, here I am lay myself down low. I give these hands, stretched out to the sky. I will bring praise to the Lord God above all.” The blessed trinity of God valiant, humble, omnipotent and merciful, our friend and our Master none can compare.

     Produced by Paul Moak and Jason Ingram, who combined have some of the greatest Christian artists to date on their lists of gifts to the body. The Neverclaim, have no problem carrying their God given mantle, and plan to never claim the glory of that; hence their chosen name. However, it is relevant to say if you like Matt Kearney, Third Day, Matt Maher, Chris Tomlin, Tenth Avenue North and Building 429 I’m pretty certain The Neverclaim CD should be on the top of your to do list come September 24, 2013.

     As an avid music reviewer I always enter into an impartial relationship with each album. Since I was unfamiliar with The Neverclaim, I had no expectations either. I can tell you openly now this CD has not come out of my car for two weeks. The last time that happened was when I reviewed Sidewalk Prophets last album. Mind you, they are one of my favorite bands, The Neverclaim, are also now on that list.

     This album touched my heart so much I felt led to create a video that includes three of my favorites songs off the album.  I decided to include it in this review so that you can enjoy more of their music!

     It’s hard to find music that combines talented artistry,along with spirit stirring lyrics and sounds produced through the spirit of the deliverer that come together like a tapestry of magnificence. I am sure you can ascertain by now that I am totally biased toward this group because they have my unfailing respect and have touched my heart in a way few groups can or ever will. The Neverclaim, have forever claimed me as true believer and supporter of their music ministry.

Learn More About The Neverclaim Here

 

 

Follow Them On Face Book Here

Make a Difference Tour

Review of the Make a Difference Tour

     With the New Year coming into play, it’s hard to look back over 2010 and point out one significant event that God truly moved through in our midst. In these days and times it is not unusual to witness God doing great things all around us. With certainty I am sure we could all testify about several awesome things we seen God do in the past year.

     One great experience I had in 2010 was when I was able to attend the Make A Difference Tour led by front man Max Lucado. When we think about what people will remember about us when we are gone, it motivates us to try and make a difference in another person’s life. It is very similar to the movie Pay it Forward. God gave us the love and sacrifice of His Son on the cross so that we could give love to someone else, releasing the knowledge of that sacrifice into their hearts through Christ.

     Mr. Lucado has committed to reaching the goal of 25,000 sponsored through the make a difference program. Through the success of tours and displays the number has reached 15,881 . The Make a Difference Tour has continued to impact the lives of those who have been helped. It opens a window of hope, a window of faith and a window of chance to those who otherwise may not live to see their next meal.


Toby Mac, Michael W. Smith and Third Day were a great selection for Max to choose to tour with in 2010. Jason Gray hopped on the wagon to join them during the last few appearances. There was a particular moment during the performance of Jesus Freak, where Toby Mac did a freeze frame and the special effects were off the hook!


  

   Michael W Smith filled the audience with tears as he pulled the heartstrings of those who had lost loved ones with his performance of Welcome Home. Third Day got the crowd involved in almost every song, including one off their recently released CD, Move titled Children of God. This song was accompanied by a video of many who have been helped through the Make a Difference Tour and through the continued outreach of World Vision.

     Speaking of Third Day's latest release Move, when I was blessed with the opportunity to interview Mac Powell, he mentioned many fans told him this was their "new favorite". Though I cannot single out a favorite album by Third Day, I have to say this one definitely fits perfectly in the CD player on a road trip!
     It is a great combination of songs that take you back to the southern rock sound molded together with the Spirit of God. Placing your feet on solid ground calling you to surrender all and trust Him to be with you no matter where you go and to never give up hope! Surrender, happens to be my favorite and one that I would stamp as being a “new favorite” to be requested for years to come. The first time I listened to the CD I had to go back and listen to that one over a few times. The band’s instruments and the vocals that Mac Powell delivers on this CD, clearly defines why so many have told them it is their new favorite album.

      Having the opportunity to interview the lead singer from Third Day, was the highlight of 2010 for me as a Christian. Not that I consider Mac Powell to be a celebrity because he is just another man gifted to worship and minister in music. However, for me many of their great classics ministered to me at some of the most trying times of my faith. Their ability to walk in the spirit of the gift that God has given them and touch the lives of so many on a daily basis is so inspirational to me. Having the heart of a worshipper myself makes it that much more of a blessing.

     Needless to say, behind the scenes there is word spreading that plans for another Make a Difference Tour are in the making for 2011. No one seems to know the line up yet for the artists that will be joining Mr. Lucado. However, one thing you can count on is God has an agenda for His people according to His master plan. I believe no matter who decides to step on board that tour, their music ministry and lives will be blessed because of their willingness to step out in faith for a great cause.
    
     Those who get involved in acts of charity through the worship and true calling of Christ sacrifice time with friends and family. If you were unable to attend the tour last year, do not miss out on the chance to be ministered to and entertained by the venue this year. If you were able to take part of the outreach last year, I don’t have to tell you what you will miss if you don’t go again this year!


     Do what you can today to demonstrate pure religion. With people making New Year Resolutions for 2011, I would urge you to make a resolution to change someone’s life this year. If you have not taken the opportunity to sponsor a child would you consider your ability to open your arms and bless someone who could use the hand of love this year? As a family maybe you could decide that will be your Resolution. Let your light shine in someone else’s life.

     James 1:27 "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, [and] to keep himself unspotted from the world."

 Luke 6:38 "For if you give, you will get! Your gift will return to you in full and overflowing measure, pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, and running over. Whatever measure you use to give--large or small--will be used to measure what is given back to you."

Interview With Mac Powell From Third Day

Third Day Makes You Want to Move

     For many of us Rock & Roll has been a great influence throughout our life times. For those thirty-forty something's we can remember sitting around with our friends listening to Lynard Skynard the Steve Miller Band or Guns "N" Roses. 

     No matter what generation you grew up in Rock & Roll played a part in your life at one point in time influencing your musical inclinations. When I found out it was Guns n Roses Appetite for Destruction that sparked the desire for Mac Powell to be in a rock band I found that kind of humorous and had to ask him about it.


Mac: "Yeah, actually we were talking about that the other day. You know I had not listened to much Rock & Roll for awhile and that summer my sister bought that album. I started listening to it while mowing the grass and that is when I knew I wanted to be in a band."

Me: "I thought that was kind of funny. I was going to say the next album you guys make you should call it Appetite for Salvation."

Mac: "Ha! Yeah you know it may have been last year or a few years back there was a tour that Switchfoot and Reliant K were on called Appetite for Construction."

     After meeting with guitarist Mark Lee, and former member Billy Wilkins the journey has moved them from being a wanna be rock band to the most well known Christian Band to ever travel through the radio waves to date. Tai Anderson and David Carr joined Mac, Mark and Billy in 1992 while they were working on their first album.

     

Today Mac, Mark, Tai and David are Moving several directions trying to share with others the importance of reaching out to those that are in need, those that are hurting and those that need a little hand from someone who has the ability to reach out and say, "You are not alone, God is waiting for you."

     Currently they have teamed up with Max Lucado, Toby Mac, Michael W Smith and the newly recruited tour member Jason Gray. I asked Mac how the tour was going and what the focus of the tour was on.

Mac: "World Vision is a huge part of this tour. Actually everyone has been great. This is the 25th year that Max Lucado has been publishing books and he did not want this anniversary celebration to be about him. We are on a mission to get as many young children in need sponsored as possible. It has been a great success so far, I am not sure what the numbers are at right now. However, the last time I checked we were around about 6,000 so far. Our goal is 25,000."

Me: "Wow, that is great! It is important for those who are financially able in the body of Christ to reach out to help others so that they may see the love and grace of God through His people."

Mac: "Absolutely!"

     So, if you have not been able to attend this tour and you are reading this you can be that one hand that could open a child's eyes up to God by visiting this website. You can move that mountain for someone! 

 CLICK HERE!

     Speaking of moving, for those who anticipate each new Third Day album that hits the musical streets, you will be pleased to know that Move became available Tuesday the 19th of October. I talked to Mac to get some insight on what to expect on the new album and he simply confirmed my excitement.

Mac: "Well, it is the first album we have had the opportunity to record in our New Studio which is only about twenty or thirty minutes away from where we all live. That makes it really nice cause we don't really have to travel to go there and whenever we need to rest or need time with our families it does not take long to go back and forth. We worked with Paul Moak on the album and he agreed with us to return back to our rock roots.

You know some of our earlier classic sounds, but hopefully it sounds better this time around. We had a great time working on this album and many of our listeners have already come up and said it is their "new favorite" Third Day record."

Me: "Wow, their "new favorite". I do not think I could narrow it down to "one favorite". You guys have so many great albums and songs. Two of my favorite songs from you guys are Thief and Show Me Your Glory.

Mac: "Yeah, Thief is one of those classics that I was talking about. We have always been able to play that and we pretty much get the same response from the crowd. It is a classic that everyone loves. Show Me Your Glory, is another great worship song that always goes well at shows also."




     Third Day continues to have numerous number one singles and have been nominated for a vast array of music awards. In 2009 they were inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame. I asked Mac how the group felt when they were honored with that recognition.

Mac:" You know it was just one of those amazing moments of our careers. You never really think about that kind of stuff. You know like it is even possible. Then it happens. It is really amazing to be recognized like that especially from your home state."

Me "So, are you all involved in your local churches in any ministry inside of them?"

Pastor Max Lucado

Mac: "Yeah, we all live in Georgia but we all go to different churches. We do travel a lot, but I do stay in touch with our Pastor and still have conversations with many of our church family also. I go when we are home. We have church on the road all the time. Max Lucado has been great on this tour, we have Bible studies and prayer time. Nigel James is our regular road Pastor who is from Europe. He has been great with us. You know he is just real. There are so many Pastors out there that are really legalistic about everything and he just is not like that. He just holds us accountable to that time of dedication to prayer and study, and he is always there just for us to talk to about things."


     Since I first began listening to Third Day in 1998 I knew lyrically they were passionate about encouraging others to grow closer in their relationship with Christ and if they did not know Christ to begin to pursue that relationship with Him. Today I see Third Day as so much more than motivators, they are doers as well. Not only do they support causes like World Vision, Habitat For Humanity,  The One Campaign and the Land Of A Thousand Hills Coffee,   they also reach further than that.

Me: "So, I seen where you and your wife Amy adopted a little boy how is that working out?"

Mac: "Oh, yeah it's great! He is great! We actually just adopted another little girl as well on January 5. Everyone is great with each other. We have Scout, Cash, Camie Love and now our two adopted children, Emmanuel and Bertie Claire."

Me: "That is awesome! I am so happy for you guys."

Mac: "Thanks we love it!"

     Third Day has lit a candle and God keeps raising the flame. They are a hope, shining in a world today that needs to see the light and love of Christ. As they take the gospel forth in their music, their actions and their feet I asked Mac if he could think of one moment throughout their ministry where he was in awe of what he saw God using them to do.

Mac: "You know almost every night on the road people come up and share of how a song has ministered to them. It's impossible to narrow it down to one moment because it happens all the time. It is very humbling when a person shares with us how our music has helped them through the loss of a loved one. Our music has done that a lot for people and that is very tough time. I remember there was one girl who was going to commit suicide and she heard the song Cry Out to Jesus and it saved her life! We hear of a lot of couples that are headed for divorce and they hear a song and end up working things out. You know that is awesome."

Official Music Video for Cry Out to Jesus

     Thankfully what moved Mac that day he was mowing the grass as a youngster, is not the same thing that moves Third Day as mighty men of God. The lyrical passion and musical talent that flows through this band is one that continues to transform people for Christ.

     Where You Are there is a Revelation on a Live Wire that Third Day knows about a Conspiracy that Offerings will cause us to Move and Come Together in God's Time and Make a Difference.

It's Time To Move and Order Their New Album!!