Christian Music Archive Podcast

Many conversations on the podcast are with the people on stage, band members, vocalists, and recording artists. But for these musicians to do their craft, there is an army of folks behind the scenes, producers, managers, engineers, and songwriters. Today I'm talking with one of those songwriters. John Chisum is a songwriter with a long list of credits, including Sandy Patti, First Call, Gaither Vocal Band, Ron Kenoly, The Cathedrals, and countless others. He is also the founder of Nashville Christian Songwriters, an organization dedicated to mentoring and empowering songwriters to hone their craft. In addition, John has been a worship pastor and record company executive and is the host of another great podcast, the Song Revolution. John Chisum: Website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! **** The songs in this episode are the intellectual property of their respective copyright owners and are used with the artist's permission.

Let’s get back to God’s Word and Saving Souls.

The Power of Music as a Ministry Tool

Thunder and Lighting

Living Life after Tragedy Strikes

Mentoring & Being Known by God

Anywhere Jesus Is

What Is Worship?

A Worship Shepherd: A Call to Gospel-Centered Worship

Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead.

Dealing with Disappointment

The Gospel as a Foundation

The power of the Truth. You’ll find it in The Book.

Direction in the Small Steps

The art of precious scars

Identity in Christ

Today we are headed to England to learn about a relatively new band, Lion of Judah. This group is working to bring Christian music into the mainstream music scene in the UK. Lion of Judah has recently signed with Gospel Song Records, an imprint of Tooth & Nail Records here in the states, and their brand new album Closer was released in October 2021. Today I’m chatting with the lead singer and primary songwriter for the group, Josh Bannister. I’m eager to hear about how God is using Lion of Judah’s music to open new doors where the truth of God’s love might not traditionally be heard. Lion of Judah: Website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

God’s Got a Plan

God Appointments

The presence of God in your life will change!

Investing in Others

Today I welcome the founders of The Worship Initiative to the podcast. Shane Barnard & Shane Everett met in college and have been making music together ever since. According to my count, they have 28 albums and a dozen or more projects for the Worship Initiative. These guys have devoted their lives to equipping worship leaders, and I’m eager to hear their thoughts on using music as part of worship. They have just released a new album, and we’ll talk a little about that, too. Shane & Shane: Website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

The answer is ”Yes.” Now, what’s the question?

Sara Groves is my guest today, and if you’ve been following Christian music for any length of time, you’ll recognize Sara from albums like Conversations, Invisible Empires, and Fireflies and Songs. Sara has just released her 14th album called What Makes it Through. In addition to her work as a musician, Sara and her husband Troy founded the ArtHouse North in St. Paul, MN, ten years ago. And she has also been an advocate for International Justice Mission for the past fifteen years. Sara Groves: Website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

On today’s podcast, I get to introduce you to Abby Robertson, a relative newcomer to Christian music. Abby released her first album just about a year ago, although she is no stranger to music. Not only did she have a brief stint in country music, but she also had the opportunity to open for several country acts and even shared the stage with the Beach Boys. But what I appreciate about Abby is her transparency in telling her story. Even though she grew up in church, she had a lot of doubts and frustrations. Tough relationships and a medical crisis with her dad caused her to have lots of questions. But through it all, she points to God’s faithfulness in seeing her and providing what she needed. Abby Robertson: Website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

On today’s podcast, I’m honored to be talking with the director of Bethel Express, an inner-city youth program in Rochester, NY. Michael is an ordained minister and has been an ardent advocate for at-risk youth. Listeners to this podcast will likely remember Michael as one of the first rap and hip-hop artists in Christian music. He has been dubbed the grandfather of Christian Rap, and he released six albums in the late 80s and early 90s. Please join me in welcoming Michael Peace to the podcast!   Michael Peace & Bethel Express: Website, or call (585) 967-1404 And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

On today’s podcast, we’re going to go back to the late 1980s. There was a band on Milk & Honey Records made up of two guys from Kentucky. Marvin and Gentry started playing music together as High School students and have been making music together ever since. But their career really took off when they became friends with Dan Peek the lead singer of the 70’s folk-rock group America. In this episode, we are going to talk about their work with Dan as well as how God has brought them through divorce, depression, and the death of a family member. Marvin & Gentry: Website and Facebook. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

My guest today has been writing music since the early 1970s. And I’ll bet that many of you have sung some of his songs in your church, songs like “Shine Jesus Shine” or “Knowing You.” Graham has released more than 40 albums in the past fifty years and has introduced the concept of PsalmSurfing, a way of using the songbook of the Old Testament in our daily lives. He is a worship leader, songwriter, and teacher, and I’m just really excited to welcome, all the way from the United Kingdom, Mr. Graham Kendrick. Graham Kendrick: Website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

One of the things I get excited about doing this podcast is hearing all of the different styles of music out there. And I enjoy talking to people who use these different styles to further the Kingdom of God. So today, I'm exploring a music style that I don't talk about much but enjoy. Usually, I'd say we are headed to the Appalachian mountains of West Virginia. But my guest is on tour, so we've headed to Arkansas. Today I'm chatting with Jonathan Buckner of the band Chosen Road, and we're going to discuss their latest album called Appalachian Hymns. But we are also going to talk barbeque and about the replanting and revitalization of the church. Chosen Road: Website, Facebook, and Instagram. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

Back in the late 90s, I worked for a marketing company hired to help promote new albums on Myrrh Records. One of the projects we had the privilege of working on was the 2nd album from my guest today. Since that album, Miss Angie has become an independent artist and has just released her 5th album, Desert Flags. Today we're also going to talk about how God chases after us and wants to restore us.  Miss Angie: Website, Facebook, and Twitter. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

Merry Christmas from the Christian Music Archive with special guest Tommee Profitt

Today's guest is a founding member of the band Grammatrain, releasing a half dozen albums in the 1990s. He has also played drums as part of the bands Bloodgood, One Bad Pig, and Gideon's Press, to name a few. Paul Roraback is a drum monster. You've got to take a look at his drumkit on YouTube! It's pretty incredible. During the past decade, Paul has released several albums under the name PJ Bostic. I'm excited to catch up with Paul "PJ Bostic" Roraback. PJ Bostic (aka Paul Roraback): Website, Facebook, and Patreon. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

My guest today is quite the renaissance man. He is an author of several books, a speaker and coach, helping artists and pastors do what they do better. He is the host of the popular @ SEA podcast. And he’s also released more than 15 albums and EPs. And today, we get to hear the heart of Justin McRoberts. Justin McRoberts: Website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

I first heard today’s guest when I played his 1986 album Shine On Me at a radio station in Boise, Idaho. As the Christian Music Archive has grown, so has the number of Steve Amerson’s albums. To date, the archive shows 18 records, and I’ve just learned about a couple more! Steve has also lent his voice to several blockbuster movies and regularly participates in a worship service at the US Capitol. And now he is releasing a new book called Tales of a Troubadour which chronicles his more than 30-year career as a recording artist. Check out the book Tales of a Troubadour.  Steve Amerson: Website, Facebook, and LinkedIn. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

For the first time in the history of this podcast, my guest today is not a musician listed on the pages of the Christian Music Archive. I know that you’ve come to expect great interviews with the musicians you love, but I promise, this episode is still worth listening to. Today, I’m interviewing Marshall Terrill, the author of the brand new book The Jesus Music, a companion to the movie of the same name. Marshall has done a great job chronicling the rise of contemporary music out of the Jesus movement into the industry juggernaut it is today. As a fan of Christian music, you want to read this book. Marshall Terrill: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Pick up a copy of The Jesus Music. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

Today I welcome Moriah Smallbone to the podcast. Moriah has just released her third solo project, an EP entitled, Live from the Quarry, an album she wrote, performed, and produced. She is also an actress and podcast host with her husband, Joel. Moriah and I chat about the importance of using our gifts and experiences and relying on God to use them where they are needed most. Moriah Smallbone: Website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

Today we welcome The Erwins to the podcast, Keith, Kody, Kris, and Katie are siblings who have been singing together since they traveled with their father who is an evangelist. This Southern Gospel family is signed to Stowtown records and this past year won a Dove award and earned a Grammy nomination. I’m looking forward to getting to know more about The Erwins. The Erwins: Website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

If you are a fan of the band Whitecross, my guest today needs no introduction. Michael Feighan's high-profile career began when he joined the metal band Whitecross. He was eventually ranked as one of the top 10 drummers in Christian music, which resulted in him playing drums for a lot of different artists. But now, he is stepping out from behind the drum kit and stepping up to the microphone with a solo project called Someone Prayed. Michael Feighan: Website, Facebook, and Instagram. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

I'm honored to welcome John J. Thompson to the podcast. John is the founder and curator of True Tunes and host of the new True Tunes Podcast. He is also a music industry veteran, musician, publishing executive, author, promoter, retailer, pastor… well, he's worn a lot of hats over the years. He is a major music fan and has a desire to see all of us "Listen to better music and listen better to music."  John J. Thompson: Website, TrueTunes, Facebook, and Twitter. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

One of the things that stood out to me when I first discovered Glenn Kaiser was that he put his money where his mouth was. The Resurrection Band not only sang about real-life struggles, like poverty, divorce, and racism, but they lived their lives by putting their thoughts into action. Glenn and his wife Wendi started Jesus People USA in Chicago to take God’s love to the streets in a real and practical way. And something about that rang true with me. Plus, Rez really rocked, turning early Christian music on its ear. Today I’m chatting with Glenn Kaiser, and we’re going to learn a little more about living a life that matches what you say you believe.  Glenn Kaiser: Website, Music, Facebook, and Twitter. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Click here to donate. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

It is an honor to welcome Larnelle Harris to the podcast. Larnelle has one of the biggest voices in Gospel music and has been singing for nearly 50 years. He’s released 24 albums, been awarded 5 Grammy Awards, 11 Dove Awards, and numerous hall of fame inductions. Larnelle shares stories about digging wells in Malawi and singing in the Kremlin, using the tools and gifts God gave him. Larnelle Harris: Website, Facebook, and Twitter. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Visit Patreon to learn how you can support the work we do. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

I’m honored to be joined by Caroline Cobb on the podcast today. Caroline has a new album out this month called A King & His Kindness, which I’m sure we’ll talk about today. But something else that intrigues me is a challenge she took in 2011 to write a song for every book in the Bible. That’s 66 songs. Let’s find out more about that challenge and learn a little more about the new album. Caroline Cobb: Website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Visit Patreon to learn how you can support the work we do. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

CeCe Winans is one of the busiest women in Gospel Music. She has been making music for almost 50 years, first singing at her church, then as part of the groundbreaking duo BeBe and CeCe Winans with her brother. She has gone on to a fantastic solo career, releasing more than 15 solo projects, and is the best-selling female gospel artist of all time. CeCe comes from a music family. There’s Mom & Pop Winans. Her brothers formed The Winans. Her nieces and nephews have formed groups. I mean, music is in CeCe’s DNA! With that kind of heritage, you might expect a diva of sorts. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. CeCe is one of the sweetest, most humble people you’ll ever meet, and her love of Jesus sparkles through even more than her sweet smile and bubbly personality. CeCe Winans: Website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Visit Patreon to learn how you can support the work we do. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

Brian and Christa Yak met in college as members of the same jazz group. After spending time together on a tour or two, they discovered that they had similar “father stories.” And as they learned more about their earthly fathers, they realized that their heavenly father would fill some empty shoes left behind by their dads. And now that they are married and starting a family of their own, the fatherhood of God takes on a new meaning. So, it’s a real honor for me to introduce you to Brian and Christa from the band For the Fatherless. For the Fatherless: Website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. And of course, on our page: Christian Music Archive. Christian Music Archive Links: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The podcast and our website are made possible through the generous support of listeners like you. Visit Patreon to learn how you can support the work we do. **** Please be sure to check out Mercy, inc. and see how you can support them today! ****

Today I’m talking with Sarah Hart. We did a lot of laughing together. And we talked about her experience as a songwriter and how she got started in music. But our chat quickly turned to the crazy pandemic and political times we are experiencing in 2020. Now I’ll be one of the first to admit, I don’t usually like talking about these topics because they can come across as divisive and I’m not someone who generally enjoys confrontation. But Sarah spoke with such love and compassion about the tools she is using to address these issues in her own life.

One of the things that has fascinated me is the number of artists who have moved to full-time ministry as a follow-up to their professional music career. One such musician is Michael James Murphy. Michael recorded five albums in the early eighties and transition to more of a country sound in the nineties where he released another three albums as Michael James. But an early call God placed on his life was to be involved in worship ministry.

Every once in awhile I get the opportunity to meet someone whose faith walk impacts me in ways that I wasn’t expecting. My guest today is one of those people.

Scott Wesley Brown released his first album in 1974 and has gone on to release more than 20 more! He has continued writing songs about the difference Jesus made in his life and how he wants to share that difference with everyone. And then our conversation turned to what it means to leave a legacy, not just professionally, but with our family. This is a great conversation you don't want to miss!

Dennis Parker is an award-winning musician who you likely have never heard of. He's been a band member for some of the biggest country stars. But fame and success crumbled away under the grip of addiction. Dennis' story is one of God's never-ending love and pursuit. And a story of reconciliation and redemption. Connect with Dennis Parker: Facebook or by mail: mail him at PO Box 464, Huntsville, AL  35804

Carolyn Arends is a thoughtful songwriter, author, and spiritual coach. She is getting ready to release a new album celebrating 25 years in Christian music. Learn about Carolyn and her story, and find out what she's up to these days.

Bob Bennett has been making music since he was 9. He released his first album in 1979 and has continued making heartfelt music ever since. In fact, CCM Magazine rated his Matters of the Heart record as one of the top Christian records of all time. Bob is a thoughtful and funny guy. Join in the conversation with host Dave Maurer.

Astute credit readers will recognize Bob Farrell as a songwriter whose songs have been performed by DeGarmo & Key, Sandi Patty, Amy Grant, Pat Terry, Wynonna, and Eric Clapton. He also penned Hero The Rock Opera with longtime collaborator Eddie DeGarmo. But dig back a bit further and you'll recognize Bob as half of the husband and wife duo Farrell and Farrell, who were mainstays in the Christian music scene in the 80s and 90s with songs like "Earthmaker", "People in a Box", and "Boundless Love".

Christian Music Archive founder Dave Maurer introduces the upcoming Christian Music Archive podcast where he will feature conversations with musicians about Christ, being part of Community, and their Music. For more information on the podcast, visit ChristianMusicArchive.com/podcast

It was the 1990s, and I was promoting concerts in Oregon and Washington. I did a short three-leg tour with Audio Adrenaline and got introduced to guitarist Barry Blair and the rest of the band. But after that tour, Barry up and disappeared! So whatever happened to Barry Blair? Well, today you are about to find out because all the way from Wilmore, Kentucky, I’m chatting with the original guitarist for Audio Adrenaline, Barry Blair.

Today’s episode is a treat for me on many levels. One of the early records in my collection as a high school student was Night Watch by Fletch Wiley. As a young trumpet player, I saw this album as a path to my potential future. Maybe I would record an album one day. On another level, as I expanded my awareness of music, I began to see Fletch’s name on other projects by Candle, Pam Mark Hall, and Marty McCall & Fireworks. Oh yea, and you can’t forget his work with Andraé Crouch as a bandleader and arranger.

If you are tuning in to today’s podcast because of my guest, I’d be interested in knowing how you know Andrew Greer. Maybe you have been listening to his music. Or maybe you recognize him from the TV show Dinner Conversations with Mark Lowry and Andrew Greer. Or it could be because you read a book or article he has written. And quite possibly, you are a listener to his podcast with Patsy Clairmont called Bridges. So, whatever the reason you are listening, I hope you enjoy our exchange.

Today’s conversation is with Michael O’Brien. Michael was the lead singer of the group NewSong for several years. He also had a successful solo career spanning more than 25 years. But despite the powerful ministry and successful career, Michael had a secret that he kept hidden from his family and friends. And that secret started to ruin his life and was about to destroy his marriage. This is a story that we can all learn from, and I hope you will share this episode with men you know who might be struggling with sexual purity.

Today I’ve connected the longest microphone cable I could find, run it across the ocean to the city of Brighton, England, and I’m chatting with Elle Limebear. Elle is a relatively new artist who released her debut EP a couple of years ago, and she's got a new album, Lost in Wonder, out last year. But for me, the story of how God called her into her music career is pretty amazing. And it all stems from her relationship with God and her experience as a kid with her famous father.

My guest today was a member of Some Band, and no, I’m not trying to be secretive or protect the identity of my guest. But, if you are a fan of early 80’s Christian pop, you’ll recognize that name as the backing group for Steve Taylor. Today, we hear from Dave Thrush about his career as part of Steve Taylor & Some Band. But, more importantly, we'll hear about how his religion changed to a relationship with Christ. Dave will share that his decision to follow Christ did not make everything go smoothly. In fact, he experienced just the opposite.

To start our second year of the podcast, I’m excited to welcome Ginny Owens to the conversation. I first became aware of Ginny in 1999 when she released her debut Rocketown Records album Without Condition. The Gospel Music Association recognized her as the 2000 New Artist of the Year, and she has gone on to win 3 Dove awards. But her music is a tiny part of who she is. She is currently wrapping up a Master’s degree in Biblical Studies and is the author of several books, including her newest, Singing in the Dark, Finding Hope in the Songs of Scripture.

Chris Christian is a substantial name in the Christian Music industry. He helped launch the fledgling Christian music industry, signing artists like Amy Grant, Dogwood, and Whiteheart. He is also responsible for Home Sweet Home Records, one of the early industry leaders in contemporary Christian music. His impact in the industry goes on to songwriting, producing, and so much more. And he credits his entire career to his praying Grandmother.

The Prayer Chain was an alternative rock band in the early 90s, making thought-provoking grunge about the same time that Nirvana was also pioneering this new type of rock. Throughout the 90s, the band released several albums. Still, like so many band stories, they started to struggle with differences of direction, not only with the record label but also between their members. I recently got to talk with Eric Campuzano, bass player for The Prayer Chain, to hear about their story. So please help me welcome to the podcast, Eric Campuzano.

Dallas Holm has been making Christian music for more than 50 years. His first Christian album was in 1969, and for the first 10 years, he used the popular music of the day to share God’s love with drug addicts and gang members. With songs like "Rise Again," "I Saw the Lord," and "Jesus Got a Hold of My Life," Dallas became an integral part of the new and growing Christian Music industry. Now, 35 albums later, Dallas is a passionate advocate for making sure that everything we do is carefully crafted with sound biblical principles.

Steve Bell wears a lot of hats. He's a singer, songwriter, speaker, producer, author, recording artist, husband, and dad. But most importantly, he's a follower of Jesus. With over 20 albums to his credit, and a career spanning more than 30 years, Steve has some amazing stories to share. But what I found most appealing about Steve is his passion to be part of whatever God is doing. I think you'll find his enthusiasm compelling.

When you’ve written more than 300 songs sung in churches around the world, it would appear to many people that you’ve got it all together. But to hear Brian Doerksen talk about it, his songs are a growth out of his very personal and private time with God. So many of these times came through times of grief and hurting. And now, Brian looks at those difficult times as the seeds of Joy that helped spawn songs like "Come, Now is the Time to Worship," "Refiners Fire," and "I Lift My Eyes Up."

John Tibbs released his first album in 2010 and has gone on to release 8 albums. He was touring as an independent artist, got signed to Fair Trade Music and was touring with the Newsboys. He went back to being an independent artist and was as busy as ever. But then in 2020, the world stopped. A global pandemic stopped his ability to tour, which for a musician means a substantial hit to your income. He and his wife were expecting their first child, which added a bit more stress to his life. As you might imagine, John was feeling a bit apprehensive and frustrated.

Bryan Duncan is a Christian music pioneer. As a member of the Sweet Comfort Band, he helped pave the way for contemporary Christian music. After recording six albums with Sweet Comfort, he went on to a successful solo career releasing more than 20 albums. His powerhouse vocals combined with horn-driven rhythm and blues is just about the best music ever recorded. So I’m excited today to sit down with this legend of Christian music.

Garth Hewitt was the first British Christian musician signed to Myrrh records in the UK back in the early 1970s. And for the last fifty years, he has recorded more than 50 records and has toured the world using his music to share about the love of Jesus. Garth was dramatically inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King, who used his platform to address social issues and spiritual needs and Garth's music reflects that.

I first learned of Bob Halligan, Jr from reading credits. Early on, I noticed his name as a songwriter and contributor to many of Rick Cua’s albums. If you are a rocker, you have undoubtedly heard Bob’s work as he was the go-to hard rock songwriter of the 80s, penning songs for Judas Priest, Kix, and Michael Bolton. But he also wrote songs for Cher, Kathy Mattea, Joan Jett, and more. Then, I discovered Bob’s band Ceili Rain, an Irish rock band with a penchant for releasing some catchy songs.

Brothers Shawn & Michael Cavallo have been singing and performing together since 1997. In 2004 they reorganized as Manic Drive and released a couple of albums that were recognized by the Canadian Gospel Music Associates with 4 Covenant Awards. Then in 2015 they received a Juno Award for Best Christian Album. Sitting down with these guys was a lot of fun. I really appreciated Shawn & Michael’s intent to make music that will share their faith in places that might not be open to traditional Christian music.

As I’ve been working on this podcast, I’ve found a number of excellent podcasts that I really enjoy. One of those is hosted by Rick Altizer a movie director who has produced movies for Chonda Pierce and Russ Taff. Rick was also a recording artist back in the late 90s. So it was great fun to sit down with Rick and chat about his transition from musician to movie producer, and I think you are really going to enjoy this conversation.

John Schlitt had it all, a successful band, a career that was really going places, and a life that was spiraling out of control. But God had other plans, and through a dramatic interaction with his wife and pastor, John began a journey that took him out of music so that he could focus on his relationship with Jesus. And just when John thought music would never be part of his life again, along came an opportunity to sing with a little band called Petra. And for the next 30 years, God used John to help spread the gospel around the world as one of the most iconic voices in Christian Music.

Today I’m chatting with Natasha Owens. Natasha’s new album Stand is set to be released any day now and we’re going to get a preview of the project. But more important than her new album is her story of how God brought her through a severe depression she went through after the accidental death of her father. Natasha shares about the importance music played and continues to play in her healing and going through several tough life experiences. She also shares how her community both helped and hindered her healing. And the realization that God has her back through it all.

Today I’m talking with David Zach from the band Remedy Drive. Here is a guy who was minding his own business, just trying to be a rock star, when he learned about the atrocities of human trafficking that is occuring in our world today. And David had the guts to say, “I’m not just going to read about it and watch the stories on the news. I’m going to do something. I’m going to get involved.”

Today I am chatting with Simon Ådahl. Simon is a Swedish musician who has been part of the bands Edin-Ådahl and Bertil-Edin. He has also released some solo projects and several of these albums made their way to the states back in the mid-80s. Simon has some incredible stories to share about smuggling Bibles into the communist countries of Romania and Yugoslavia. But he also has a testimony of how forgiveness has completely changed the trajectory of his life, and I can’t wait for you to hear this powerful testimony.

Today’s guest is a multi-talented musician who has been active in a number of bands. There is ArkAngel, Radio Halo, and Atomic Opera. He also worked with Caedmon’s Call for a season in addition to having several albums of his own. I’m not sure how to classify Kemper’s music. Is it Old English, Celtic, Medieval, or Art/Progressive Rock? Probably a little of all each of those styles. But Kemper is much more than just a musician. He is an author, teacher, and an Episcopal priest, currently working at a Lutheran church.

Paul Clark started his music career writing songs about his new faith and sharing them with whoever would listen. His first album from 1971 sold so well that executives at Word Records offered to help distribute his record because it was something new and they saw this Jesus Music was impacting the country for Christ. Flash forward 50 years and Paul is still active in helping people use music as a tool for sharing the Gospel. After more than 30 albums, Paul’s passion for reaching the lost hasn’t wavered one bit and I’m excited for you to hear his story.

Babbie Mason has been making music since the early 80s. She was discovered at a music conference in the mid-80s, but like so many discovery stories, there was a lot of hard work and study that went into her discovery. I love talking to people who have been successful in their craft and share that success by training and mentoring others. Babbie has done that in spades. From being a middle school teacher to writing books and coaching new artists, Babbie uses her gifts to make sure those around her can use their gifts to the fullest.

Michele Pillar was part of the early Maranatha Praise singers before releasing her self-titled album in 1982. She has released seven albums, is a 3-time Grammy and Dove award nominee, and is a sought-after conference speaker. In 2016, she released the book Untangled, The Truth Will Set You Free and she is putting the finishing touches on her next book, due to be released later this year.

Unless you are an avid credit reader like me, you might not recognize my guest today by name. But I guarantee you will recognize his work. Dave Clark is a songwriter, publisher, and arranger who has lived in Nashville for the past 40 plus years. He has written songs for Rascal Flatts, Larnelle Harris, Sandi Patty, Donny Osmond, Glen Campbell, CeCe Winans, Al Denson… just to name a few. And he’s written at least one #1 song in four consecutive decades with more than 25 number one songs on the Christian Music Charts. I think Dave is pretty good at his job!

Today's podcast is a world tour, hitting 3 time zones to chat with the members of the Paul Colman Trio. We laughed a lot, talked about dead Hobbits, and dug into living our lives intentionally for Jesus. How does God take our broken and messed up lives and use them to show people around us that God loves them? This is definitely a conversation you do not want to miss! Paul Colman Trio: Website and Facebook.

Have you ever had a random conversation with someone at the grocery store or maybe on an airplane and you come away feeling like this is a person you would like to get to know more? Today’s conversation with Byron Chambers was that for me. The time we spent together went way too fast and I did not want our time to end. “Who is Byron Chambers?”, you might be asking. Well, you are going to want to stick around and find out! Because Byron is a guy who loves Jesus with all his heart and is using his skills to impact mainstream music with God’s love in a way few others can.

Boy, do I have a treat for you today. If you are a worship leader you are definitely going to want to stick around for today's podcast with Joel Weldon. Joel is a voice-over actor and communication coach who spent years as a worship leader working with the likes of Promise Keepers, Young Live, Harvest Crusades, and Billy Graham Crusades. Joel has a heart for worship that is very contagious. This podcast could actually be a master class on leading worship.

Smalltown Poets formed in 1996 in Atlanta, GA, and have released eight albums and a couple of Christmas projects. Their first major-label album earned a Grammy nomination. But as you hear them share their story, it isn’t about awards or album sales. They are seeking to follow God in their music careers, but also in their lives. But why am I telling you about this? Let’s let them share their story in their own words.

I got to sit down with Michael Sweet. You know, the lead singer of Stryper, part of the duo Sweet & Lynch, and solo artist Michael Sweet. Yea, that guy. For those who may not be familiar with Michael, here is a quick intro. He has released 8 solo albums. Was the lead singer for the rock band Boston for four years. And is a founding member of the band Stryper, along with his brother Robert and friend Oz Fox. Stryper has sold more than 10 million albums and was a pioneer in Christian metal when it was getting started in the 1980s.

If you’ve been listening to this podcast for any length of time, you know how passionate I am about living in community. And many times that community is with friends or your church. Sometimes that community is an intentional project to help others. Today on the podcast I get to chat with Jadon Lavik. Jadon is president of Better Together Ministries. One of the things that intrigued me about Jadon was his purpose statement, “We aim to transform communities both locally and globally because we are truly better together.” This is living out community in very real and tangible ways.

Mickey & Becki Moore were professional street singers in New York's Greenwich Village when they felt called to be part of the new Jesus Movement of the 1970s. In today's podcast, we hear the story behind the call God placed on them and how he provided despite industry roadblocks and people telling them that this wasn't a good career path. Michael & Becki Moore: Website. And of course on our page: Christian Music Archive.

Today I welcome to the husband and wife team of Steve & Annie Chapman. Christian music enthusiasts will recognize Steve and Annie as a vocal recording duo from the early eighties, but before that, they were both in the pioneering CCM group Dogwood. What many may not realize is that they have continued to record and have released around 20 albums and are seasoned authors, releasing more than 30 books between them, covering topics from marriage and parenting to hunting and character development.

Today I’m privileged to chat with Lenny LeBlanc. Lenny got his start in music back in the 70s and had a couple of Top 40 mainstream hits. He went on to write a number of worship songs like "There Is None Like You" and "Above All," for which he won a Dove Award in 2003. In addition to more than a dozen solo albums, he has been a bass player and studio musician working with the likes of Amy Grant, Ricky Skaggs, Don Moen, and Twila Paris.

Jaime Jamgochian is my guest today on the podcast. Jaime is a Berklee College of Music graduate, which means she has some mad music skills. But what is most evident about her life is her reliance on God. She is passionate about sharing her faith and telling how God is a healing, caring God. Now, Jaime has just released All Things an album about how God is working to make things beautiful. Like she states during our chat, "If it's not good yet, God is not done yet."

On today’s podcast, we have a special treat to talk to not one, but two really talented people. First, we’ve got Renee Garcia-Bliss. Renee released a couple of albums back in the late 1980s and has done background vocals both in the studio and on the road. I remember seeing Renee as one of Amy Grant's back up vocalists on several of her tours. Then we have Lang Bliss, who has a pretty impressive resume of his own. Lang has been a drummer, producer, songwriter, and live event promoter for some artists you might know... Michael W. Smith, Michael McDonald, Big Daddy Weave...

Of all the singers I’ve heard, there are a small handful of people that every time I hear their voice, I stop and just soak in the music… close my eyes and just basque in excellence. Singers like Matthew Ward, Russ Taff, and Ashley Cleveland who could sing the dictionary, and I would buy it. My shortlist of favorite vocalists also includes a pair of siblings, one of whom is my guest today. Lynda Randle is a singer who can SING! And obviously, I’m not alone in that assessment. Billy Graham, Andrae Crouch, and Bill Gaither have all asked to work with Lynda.

One of the things I love about doing this podcast is the opportunity to meet new artists. Today I get to talk with Joel Vaughn. Joel is signed to Dream Records and has just released a new EP call Louder Than the Lies. In addition to his recording career, Joel is a Worship Pastor in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee. I’m looking forward to getting better acquainted with Joel Vaughn.

On today’s podcast, I get to chat with Ayiesha Woods. Ayiesha wrote her first song when she was just 12 years old. And after releasing an independent project and touring regionally, she came to the attention of TobyMac who signed her to Gotee Records. Before long, she was nominated for Grammy and Dove awards and even had a top 10 radio hit. Then in 2009 she gave it all up to focus on her new family. While that may seem like a bad career choice, she said she wouldn’t change it for the world! Now a wife and mother of four boys, her new ministry is as a worship leader in her home church.

Today I get to chat with John Michael Talbot. John Michael and his brother Terry had a Southern Rock band in the early seventies called Mason Proffit. They were a pretty big deal! Bands like The Doobie Brothers, Steely Dan, and John Denver were opening acts for Mason Profit! Eventually, though, John Michael and his brother left the band and rededicated their lives to Christ. John Michael went on to become a Roman Catholic monk and has released 56 solo albums in the past 4 decades!

Today’s conversation is a bit surreal for me. You see, when I was considering starting this podcast I did a lot of research by listening to a TON of podcasts. I didn’t want to do something that was already being done. And I wanted to see what a quality podcast should sound like. As you might imagine, I listened to a lot of… shall we say… unimpressive productions. But then I found The Pivot hosted by Andrew Osenga. Now here was a podcast that not only had high production values but also had a host with a tender, caring heart.

My conversation today is with Dennis Agajanian. I first met Dennis when I was in college and he performed at a youth camp where I was on staff. I remember him as a larger than life, charismatic performer who played a mean guitar. In the years since then, I’ve seen Dennis on stage with Billy Graham, at Harvest Crusades, and even saw him on the popular 80’s ABC television show That’s Incredible! But talking with Dennis you are quick to learn that he has a passion for sharing the Gospel.

In today’s podcast, I talk with Richard Souther. Richard was an in-demand studio and touring musician who played with Barry McGuire, 2nd Chapter of Acts, and Phil Keaggy, just to name a few But early in his career, Richard experienced a significant medical event that for all intents should have spelled the end of his illustrious career. But thanks to some friends around him, and a new technology called the synthesizer, Richard was able to resume his career and go on to be a prolific creator of contemplative music.

I’m excited to welcome Tammy Trent to the podcast. Tammy has released a half dozen albums, her first one back in 1995. She is an author and popular speaker and has quite a story to tell about how her community of friends and her relationship with Jesus helped her through the loss of her husband and best friend. You won’t want to miss this conversation!