I Just Want to Say Thank You (2010 Edition)

Yes folks, it's that time of the year again. It's time for me to share with the whole world what I'm grateful for during this festive holiday season. Plus, I want to get it done with before I get into cooking and eating tomorrow and forget to do it then!

I want to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for continuing to be the amazing God that you are. For teaching me patience even when I'm not stupid enough to pray for it, just because you know I need to learn it some more. Thank you for being my provider in an economy that won't seem to let up. Though I've had to make some hard changes this year - you've still shown me how to be grateful for what I do have and to be faithful in those things. You are more than amazing.

I'm extremely thankful for a great family. We've suffered some big losses this year - including the loss of two very important grandparents in my life. I'm thankful that through those losses I was able to spend some more time with family that I haven't seen in a long time - and it got 4 of the 5 of us kids back together in the same room for the first time in 10 years. Health issues notwithstanding - we're all alive and kicking - and that's something to be thankful for.

I'm extremely grateful for a beautiful girlfriend who has remained the one very constant thing in my life. She's strong for me when I need some stability and her wisdom helps me make better decisions. Noel - thank you.

I'm grateful for a great group of clients who support me more than they know. They have provided encouragement, wisdom, resources, and most importantly a grateful heart for what I do for them. I firmly believe that the core group of clients I work for were brought to me for a reason. They are great people who are just as supportive of me as I am of them. Special thanks to Brenda & Elaine, Rod & Kelly (and Paige), Tony & Pam, Holly & Eddie, Betty Jo & Grandpa Johnny, Curtis and Gary, Mitch and Michael, Chris & Darrell, Misty, Rob, Bev, David Hill, David Timms, and Sharron.

I have to give a specific shout out to Scott & Joni Robinson for allowing me to see in their ministry for a weekend (and of all places - the Cayman Islands)! That was one of the most refreshing and amazing weekends of this year. I'm also grateful that I was never one of the little indians... Period.

It's great to meet new people and new friends - most especially Jeff & Sue Duffield. They are some of the greatest people in the world! I'm also honored to have gotten to know Jimmy & Liz better this year, as well as meeting Wayne and Wanda! We love you guys!

Special thanks to TRu for getting me away from work when I need it to talk about stupid things like music, TV, movies, and his new puppy. I'm very grateful for it. (And for - you know - doing that thing you do - with the stuff - from the people. You know.)

I'm very thankful for an awesome Pastor and church. I've already written a book about how much I love Pastor & Mrs. Pastor and Turning Point Assembly of God. So, needless to say, I don't want to type it all out again, but you know. I'm looking forward to taking over TNT this year. It's going to be awesome! Special shout out to folks like Nate & Ives, Jon & Melissa, Ruth, the Miller clan, Blakey-Poo, Matty, Michael and Heathy-kins, Alex & Jennifer (for allowing Alexis to bite me in KFNC!) and Leah. And maybe the Jewitt girls. Maybe. They all provided me with some great moments this year.

One last shout out to Twitter for continuing to be a constant source of escapism in my life. I appreciate the friendships I've made through that stupid network.

Thanks to the Harry Potter series, The Lord of the Rings series, The Office, 30 Rock, Amazing Race, Survivor, Big Bang Theory, Top Chef, Toy Story 3, Inception, Agatha Christie, The Muppets, Carrie Underwood, St. Lola In the Fields, Jars of Clay, MercyMe, Tenth Avenue North, Lincoln Brewster, and Andrew Peterson for keeping me entertained and intrigued this year.

My big gripe about this year: not getting to see The Dills much. What's up with that?

So there you have it - the folks and things I'm grateful for. Thanks for making my life much richer!

Chris

To mentor or not…

I was born in and spent my childhood in the Assemblies of God. When we moved from the St. Louis area to the Memphis area - we started attending a Church of God (Cleveland). So, I spent my my formidable (read: terrible teen) years and most of my college years in the Church of God culture. Heck, I even attended and graduated from the Church of God's shining star - Lee University.

The two aren't much different at all - very very minor theological differences. Mostly the political nature of the churches are what separates the two. Both churches have a way of mentoring young people in their gifts. In the Church of God - it's called Teen Talent, which is what I participated in. In the A/G - it's called Fine Arts. Both of these programs are designed to help encourage, strengthen, and develop the talents of young people - whether that's through music (everything from vocals, instrumental, songwriting, composing, etc.), pulpit or children's ministry, puppetry, sign language, human videos and drama, art, dance, and much much more.

The way FAF works is that these kids have to make it through their state districts (and in some districts multiple rounds) to be invited to participate at the national level (National Fine Arts Festival). These kids get scholarship money, learn vital information about their craft, and in some instances get bragging rights.

When I started going back to an Assembly of God after I graduated college - I was fortunate enough to be asked to an evaluator in the Tennessee District Fine Arts Festival. This was something that I always wanted to do - because I've always felt that there would be a portion of my calling that involved mentoring artists in some way. In what way I still don't know - but I saw this as a great way to get started. I was, and still to this day, remain absolutely floored at the talent that is just oozing from some of these kids. In addition to evaluating at the District level, I also evaluate at the National Fine Arts Festival - and it's a highlight of my year.

Why, you ask? Because this is my opportunity to share the things that I've learned over the years as a singer, songwriter, and musician to young people who are really only at the tip of understanding what their calling is and where they are meant to be in the grand scheme of life. When I was in Teen Talent as a teenager - I didn't want to hear things like "watch your control" or "don't over sing because it causes your pitch to waver" or "cool it on the runs." I thought I knew it all. Turns out I didn't - and I needed to hear it from people that actually knew what they were talking about and could in turn help take me a step further to becoming the kind of singer that the Lord called me to be.

Taking that kind of constructive criticism was what I needed to be able to take criticisms today. When I go in a writing session today, it doesn't bother me that the other writer throws out my line because it wasn't developed well enough or because it was too cliched and typical. How am I going to be a better writer if I can't learn from those who have experienced more in the writing world than I have?

I say all of this to let you know that I'm going to be having a blast this weekend pouring into the lives of young people from all across the state of Tennessee. Then, I get to do it all over again in August when I head to Detroit to evaluate at Nationals.

I wish that others in this industry would get behind our developing artists and mentor them to be the best possible artists they can be. If we don't show them, how can we expect to get out of the creative and musically mediocre slump that we are in? Come on guys - share what you know, seek out what you don't know, and let's take this industry to the next level.

I'm in. How about you?

2009: A Year In Review

It's amazing how much things change - and don't change - all within a year's time. This time last year - I had a brother who was looking to finish up his last few months in jail, all four grandparents still alive, and I was single. Now, my brother is home and tormenting me all the while, I lost two of my grandparents (both in December), and I'm officially in a relationship. Hard to imagine isn't it?

All the while - a lot of things didn't change. I'm still working on the solo record, still love my church, still plugging away in the Southern Gospel industry, and thankful to have had another year with my family and friends. God brought several wonderful people into my life this year - some were there before and we've become closer - while others have come along for the first time. I'm thankful for each and every one of you for being my shoulder to cry on, ear to listen with, and brain to use when I'm not using mine. You are very special - and while you may not get a specific mention here - I've told you enough this year - so you know who you are.

I'm thankful that God has continued to pour out his Spirit in my life. I'm so honored and privileged that has used me as the vessel to do some really great things this year. I feel like as a songwriter that I've grown more than ever. While I didn't write a whole lot more this year than last year - I feel like the songs are better, I've contributed more to the process, and that I've become more confident in this area that God has blessed me (not to say that I feel extremely confident now - but the more I grow as a writer - the more confident I am getting). I can't wait for you guys to hear some of the stuff I've written this year. I think you'll be able to tell the difference yourself.

Now, let's move on to the more superficial things. I did this last year, so I figured I should do it again this year. Here are a few lists of my favorite things from 2009. These are not what I think are the BEST - rather my favorites - including everything that I find near and dear to my heart (music, TV, movies, etc.).

MUSIC
I have to say that the year in music for 2009 was much better than 2008. I had a real hard time narrowing my list down this year - whereas last year I had a hard time filling it out. These were my favorite 13 albums released in 2009...

Top 13 Albums (Because Everyone Does Top 10)


1. Beauty Will Rise - Steven Curtis Chapman
If there was one CD that was released this year that could bring me to tears - it was this one. Most people know of the horrific tragedy that happened to the Chapman family - and this recording was the response to those emotions and healing that came from that situation. There's not a song on here that doesn't give me an emotional jarring - but my favorites include "See," "February 20th," "I Will Trust You," and "God Is It True (Trust Me)."

Read my original review here.


2. Love Is On the Move - Leeland
I loved Leeland's debut - and Opposte Way - while a favorite from last year - was a bit of a step down for the band. However, they made a full comeback with this fantastically crafted worship record. It's hard to choose favorites - but I really like "Follow You" (with Brandon Heath), "Via Dolorosa," "The Door," "Love Is On the Move," and "Holy Spirit Have Your Way."

Read my original review here.


3. Come Alive - Mark Schultz
I've always always always loved the songwriting and melody crafting of Mark Schultz - and this album did not disappoint at all. Fans of Billy Joel will love the melodies that Schultz creates! Songs like "He Is," "What It Means To Be Loved," "All Has Been Forgiven," and "Closer Than I've Ever Been" have been favorites this year!

Read my original review here.


4. Lines, Vines & Trying Times - Jonas Brothers
Yes, I like the Jonas Brothers. They have great melodies and catchy lyrical hooks. You got a problem with that? Favorites included "What Did I Do to Your Heart," "Paranoid," "Hey Baby," and "World War III."


5. Southern Voice - Tim McGraw
The McGraw is back and has found his Voice. Yeah - that was corny, I know. McGraw may not write most of his stuff - but man he picks the best songs. Not surprisingly, the best songs on this record weren't even the radio singles. I loved "Still," "I'm Only Jesus," "Love You Goodbye," and "You Had to Be There."


6. Innocence & Instinct - Red
Yeah, I know these guys are bland rock 'n roll to you real metal heads - but this is about as hard as my ears can handle for one sitting - and Red remains a favorite. I loved songs like "Death of Me," "Never Be the Same," "Overtake You," "Fight Inside," and "Mystery of You."

Read my original review here.


7. Live Life Loud - Hawk Nelson
I never apologize for the music I listen to - and I won't start now. Hawk Nelson writes some of the freshest and catchiest pop/rock tunes currently at Christian radio. Don't pass up this band just because you're too much of a music snob to enjoy a moment or two of fun. I LOVED "Meaning of Life," along with "Live Life Loud," "Alive," and "Shaken."

Read my original review here.


8. ...Naturally - The Isaacs
Pure musical bliss. That's all I have to say. My favorites included "Hear the Voice of My Beloved," "Little Bit of Heaven," "No Shortage," and "Hallelujah."

Read my original review here.


9. Love & the Lack Thereof - Greg Sczebel
Canadian import Greg Sczebel's sophomore outing was pure pop heaven. I loved everything about this record - especially "Causin' a Commotion," "One By One," "Stop (You've Only Got One Heart)," and "Homeland."

Read my original review here.


10. Play On - Carrie Underwood
Hello? It's Carrie Underwood. I really liked "Quitter," "Change," "Temporary Home," and "Songs Like This."


11. Now Is Not Forever - B.Reith
Very rarely does a hip hop artist make my list - but B.Reith's creative fusion of pop, rock and hip hop made for some really great listening moments. You should check out songs like "Antidote," "Mess," and "Rain Down." Also download "Go On" from his The Forecast EP while you're checking him out...

Read my original review here.


12. How Many Kings - Downhere
Yup - I've been spinning this Christmas record since August. It's that good. Their version of "Good King Wenceslas" has been a favorite - but I also love "How Many Kings," "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen," and "Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella."

Read my original review here.


13. Church Music - David Crowder Band
Probably the finest, technical release in Christian music this year. It's another fine release from the band - but it didn't resonate with me like Remedy or A Collision did - or else it would have ranked much higher. I did, however, really enjoy "How He Loves," "Alleluia Sing," "We Are Loved," and "Chuch Music - Dance[!]."

Read my original review here.

Other notable albums:
Life Is Not a Snapshot - Josh Wilson
Glory Revealed II - Various Artists
No Worries - Karen Peck & New River
Almost Morning - The Perrys
Class Reject - Jade Harrell
Mess of Me - Switchfoot
Forget & Not Slow Down - Relient K
Heaven & Earth - Phil Wickham
Fireflies & Songs - Sara Groves
Danyew - Danyew
While I'm Waiting - John Waller
The Long Fall Back to Earth - Jars of Cay
Rocks Into Rivers - Seabird

Top 13 Favorite Songs (Non-Singles)


1. Almost Morning - The Perrys
2. I'm Only Jesus - Tim McGraw
3. Kingdom Coming - Shaun Groves
4. What Did I Do to Your Heart - Jonas Brothers
5. Good King Wencesclas - Downhere
6. I Saw What I Saw - Sara Groves
7. Beautiful Bird - Cindy Morgan
8. How to Fall - Josh Wilson
9. Causin' a Commotion - Greg Sczebel
10. Anthem - Josh Groban
11. Go On - B.Reith
12. Fill My Cup - Martin Smith, CeCe Winans, Lakewood Choir
13. Love Is On the Move - Leeland

Top 13 Songs (Singles)


1. Revelation Song - Phillips, Craig & Dean
2. He Is - Mark Schultz
3. How He Loves - David Crowder Band
4. Meaning of Life - Hawk Nelson
5. Hope Is Rising - Downhere
6. Finally Home - MercyMe
7. Follow You - Leeland & Brandon Heath
8. More Beautiful You - Jonny Diaz
9. The Motions - Matthew West
10. Battlefield - Jordin Sparks
11. Hands of the Healer - John Waller
12. If You Knew Him - The Perrys
13. Fireflies - Owl City

According to the fantastic site, Last.fm these were my most played artists and songs for 2009.

Top Artists
1. Cindy Morgan (471 plays) (she was #1 last year with 809 plays - a lack of a new release knocked her number of plays down significantly)
2. Hawk Nelson (468 plays) (#19 last year)
3. Jonas Brothers (456 plays) (#23 last year)
(tie) Jars of Clay (456 plays)
5. Downhere (433 plays)
6. Robin Thicke (430 plays)
7. William Joseph (415 plays)
8. David Crowder Band (411 plays)
9. Elliott Yamin (374 plays) (#4 last year)
10. Red (345 plays)
11. Sara Groves (344 plays)
12. Brandon Heath (328 plays) (#5 last year)
13. David Archuleta (306 plays)
14. Phillips, Craig & Dean (305 plays)
15. Steven Curtis Chapman (302 plays)
16. House of Heroes (295 plays)
17. Michael W. Smith (284 plays)
18. Relient K (279 plays) (#14 last year)
19. B.Reith (271 plays)
20. Family Force 5 (270 plays)
21. Jason Gray (269 plays)
22. Jennifer Hudson (256 plays)
23. Carrie Underwood (255 plays) (#20 last year)
(tie) Leeland (255 plays)

Top Tracks
1. London - Brandon Heath (188 plays)*
2. Beautiful Bird - Cindy Morgan (135 plays)
3. Revelation Song - Phillips, Craig & Dean (134 plays)
4. Hope Is Rising - Downhere (127 plays)
5. How He Loves - David Crowder Band (102 plays)
6. DreamWorld - Robin Thicke (95 plays)
7. Use Somebody - Kings of Leon (93 plays)
8. He Is - Mark Schultz (90 plays)
9. Meaning of Life - Hawk Nelson (89 plays)
10. Beautiful King - Danyew (82 plays)
11. Magic - Robin Thicke (80 plays)
12. From the Inside Out - Seventh Day Slumber (78 plays)
13. More Beautiful You - Jonny Diaz (77 plays)
14. Let's Dance - Hawk Nelson (76 plays)
15. Breaking - Anberlin (75 plays)
16. My Last Amen - Downhere (73 plays)
17. Two Hands - Jars of Clay (70 plays)
(tie) I Will Rise - Chris Tomlin (70 plays)
(tie) Hands of the Healer - John Waller (70 plays)
(tie) Jesus Saves - Travis Cottrell (70 plays)
21. Closer to Love - Mat Kearney (69 plays)
22. I Still Miss You - Hawk Nelson (67 plays)
(tie) Tinted Windows - Kind of a Girl (67 plays)

*"London" by Brandon Heath has so many more plays for one reason: I had it on loop cause I was kind of dissecting the lyrics of the song one day and ended up leaving for a few hours while the song was still on loop. If I had to guess - the song would probably rank somewhere in the low teens, high 20s taking out all those plays from the looping.

MOVIES
Saw even less movies this year in the theaters, but thanks to RedBox - I got to see quite a few. I saw 42 movies this year, but only 13 of them got the full movie theater/drive-in experience.

Here are my favorite movies of the year (that is the movies that I actually saw this year, there may be some from late 2008 that I caught this year). Titles with a star (*) denotes movies I saw in the theaters.

Top 23 Favorite Movies of 2009


1. Up*
2. Avatar*
3. Star Trek*
4. Harry Potter & the Half Blood Prince*
5. Julie & Julia*
6. Inglorious B...
7. Up In the Air*
8. State of Play
9. The Hangover
10. Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen*
11. I Love You, Man
12. District 9
13. Funny People
14. Year One
15. Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian*
16. Monsters Vs. Aliens*
17. Confessions of a Shopaholic*
18. Watchmen
19. Inkheart
20. Angels & Demons
21. X-Men Origins: Wolverine*
22. Land of the Lost
23. Sunshine Cleaning

TELEVISION

I'm going to repeat what I said last year: "I don't know how I lived life before the DVR. Man, that is easily the single best invention in the entire world." These are my favorite TV shows from 2009.

Top 23 Favorite Shows of 2009


1. 30 Rock
2. The Office
3. Survivor: Samoa
4. Dexter
5. True Blood
6. Big Bang Theory
7. Survivor: Tocantins
8. The Amazing Race 15
9. Big Love
10. Pushing Daises
11. Big Brother 11
12. Entourage
13. The United States of Tera
14. Gary Unmarried
15. The New Adventures of Old Christine
16. How I Met Your Mother
17. FlashForward
18. V
19. The Middle
20. CougarTown
21. Modern Family
22. Hoarders
23. Pawn Kings

30 Rock makes a huge jump (was #12) and takes away the Top spot from The Office (which was last year's #1). Survivor continues to be the most entertaining and engaging reality program on TV - and the show's two seasons from this year both rank in the Top 10 again. The New Adventures of Old Christine and How I Met Your Mother both made big drops this year - mainly due to the shows starting to lack in originality. The best programming on TV continues to come from Showtime (Dexter, Nurse Jackie, United States of Tera) and HBO (Big Love, True Blood, Entourage). Due to some of my favorites from last year either falling off because of a lack of interest (Numb3rs, House, M.D.) and cancellations (Worst Week, Jericho), there are some notable new shows that I've enjoyed this year - like V, FlashForward, Hoarders, Pawn Kings, The Middle, CougarTown, and Modern Family. Pushing Daises officially bit the dust this year - so this will be the final year to be able to list the show.

BOOKS


Thanks to Cafe Classic (the book club I'm in) - I'm able to keep my reading up for the most part. It's hard for me to pick a favorite for this year - but I have to say that probably Cormac McCarthy's The Road was this year's favorite. The goal was to read 24 books this year (2 a month) - and surprisingly I was able to do that. Currently in the middle of re-reading J.R.R. Tolkein's The Lord of the Rings trilogy - but that won't make this year's list.

List of Books Read This Year:
Agatha Christie, Murder On the Orient Express
Agatha Christie, The Moving Finger
C.S. Lewis, Till We Have Faces
Chaim Potok, The Promise
Cormac McCarthy, The Road
E.M. Bounds, Prayer & Praying Men
Frank Peretti, Monster
Fyodor Dostoevsky, Crime & Punishment
George Orwell, 1984
George Orwell, Animal Farm
H.G. Wells, The Time Machine
J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter & the Goblet of Fire
J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter & the Order of the Phoenix
J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter & the Half Blood Prince
J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows
John Knowles, A Separate Peace
Mark Andrew Olsen, The Watchers
Mary Shelley, Frankenstein
Matt Bronleewe, Illuminated
Nathaniel Hawthorne, The Scarlet Letter (ok, only half of this one...)
Oscar Wilde, The Picture of Dorian Gray
Sigmund Brouwer, Broken Angel
Upton Sinclair, The Jungle
William Shakespeare, The Merchant of Venice

That about sums up my year in terms of what keeps me busy outside of work. I'm hoping that 2010 is as eventful a year as 2009 was!

I Want to Thank You

Yes folks, it's that time of the year. Time for me to share what I am thankful for - both the silly and sincere. Whatever it is, these things or people have somehow touched my life this year. So, in the immortal words of Karen Peck & New River - "I Want to Thank You..."

Thank you to everyone in the music industry who has been an encouragement to me this year. You guys have at times given me the boost to keep plugging along. You're quick to give an ear if advice is needed and also a great confidant. Thank you to people like Steve Allen, Rod & Kelly Burton, Crystal Burchette-Johnson, Kathy Hannah, Glen & Beckie (Simmons) Bates, Melissa Brady, Donna Beavuais, Kimberly Allen, Darrell & Chris Freeman, Misty Calloway, Kyle & Tara Jackson, Scott & Joni Robinson, Tony & Wendy Word, Brenda, Elaine, & Jimmy, Adam & Kathy Glover, Sharron Kay King, Holly & Eddie Carden, Tony & Pam Hensley, and Betty Jo & Johnny Hensley. You all are great!

Thanks to Twitter for being a great place to build and cultivate relationships that I wouldn't otherwise have built. It's been great getting to know people like @emilysutherland, @smsutherland, @maddyfatty, @lizmcmillan, @jimimacc, @kenebop, @menglish001, @joebonsall, @brandon_andrews, @josephhabedank, @libbistuffle, @unmarketing, @shannonmnorman, @christabanister, @drock777, @MikeEnglishFan, and many many more! Thanks for giving me another way to avoid doing my work! HA!

I'm thankful for the artists who have trusted me with their ministry. I love my job, and I can't imagine doing anything else right now. Thank you for allowing me to be a small part of what you do!

I want to thank artists for continuing to make music that touches not only those that listen to it, but themselves as well. This year was a great year for me to talk with artists who are all about making music that satisfies their own spiritual hunger as well as the needs of those who hear their music. I stand in awe of your brilliance and the way you allow God to use you from a stage. Some of you have had to push through some major trials and heartbreaks in order to reach me, the listener. For that - I am thankful. So, major thanks to acts like Downhere, Karen Peck & New River, Leeland, Brandon Heath, Hawk Nelson, The Isaacs, The Perrys, David Crowder Band, Avalon, B,Reith, Sisters, Shane & Shane, Sara Groves, Matthew West, Priority, The Bowling Family, Crabb Revival, Aaron & Amanda Crabb, Mark Schultz, Crystal River, The Freemans, Andrew Peterson, John Waller, Phil Wickham, and Greg Sczebel.

I have to give a special thanks to Steven Curtis Chapman who was willing to bear his soul on one of the most heartwrenching and inspiring records I have ever heard - Beauty Will Rise. Thank you for your sincerity, honesty, and obedience to the call of God on your life.

I'm thankful for friends and family who are my constant support system - Mom, Dad, Amy, Scott, Noel, Leah, Pastor, Mrs. Pastor, Steve, and theTRu! You guys are awesome!

I'm thankful for those zone-out moments where I can get away and not think about the cares of this world. Thank you to TV execs for making some of the best programming out there. I think I've enjoyed television more this year than movies - and that is a pretty big shocker. I'm especially thankful for The Office, 30 Rock, and Survivor.

Oh yeah, and I have to give a shout out to The Muppets! I still love you after all these years!

Most importantly, thank you to God who has continued to absolutely blow my mind this year. His faithfulness is unmatched, and His wonders never cease to amaze me. I'm thankful that he has allowed me to write anointed songs and sing anointed music. He's the most important thing in my life.

Thank you.

If You Knew Him

So I had the privilege of seeing The Perrys recently in concert. As usual, they were awesome. This particular performance saw them using a live band (that the church provided) on all but one track, and I have to say I ended up leaving the concert wishing they had their tracks. That certain Perrys' element was missing, and I as a fan missed it (but that's fodder for another blog altogether...)

The Perrys sang their current #1 song "If You Knew Him" - and the more I listen to this song, the more it resounds with me. Initially, when I heard this song, I thought it was just a typical Southern Gospel ballad. It was nice, but it didn't really knock my socks off or anything. However, the longer the song has been on the air, and especially after hearing it live, I know that this is a song that is meant for this time.

However, I couldn't sit there, in this church where the concert was being held, and listen to this preacher preach after such a stirring and moving song and not note the irony of the situation. The Perrys had just ministered a beautiful message of the resurrection power in our lives - and now the preacher was using the song to promote his brand of religion. Rather than preach about the overcoming power of the cross, resurrection power of God's salvation, or joy that comes with those things - the sermon consisted of berating those who read from other translations of the bible, listened to music not deemed as "Gospel", and people who liked things "new and improved."

Really? Is that how you reach people who are actively seeking something that has the power change their lives? You just had a group that presented the Gospel of hope with love and power - and you just get up there and tear down any progress they may have made? All because you believe your brand of Christianity to be the most correct?

What happened to spreading the LOVE of Jesus. Since when did it become about tearing down other believers to make ourselves look more holy?

Here's the deal Mr. Pastor - if YOU knew him like I knew him, you would know that it's not about what bible you read, what kind of music you listen to, or anything else you find wrong with Christianity. If you knew him like I knew him - you would know of the overwhelming and STRIKING freedom that is given to us by a life found in Jesus Christ.

Kudos to The Perrys for doing what they were called to do that evening. It made it worth my evening.

It Pays to Pray

So I need to write a blog. I hate when the realization comes to me, and I have nothing extremely specific to talk about. NQC is over, and part of me is sad, but part of me is already anxious for next year. I love this time of the year, because I get to see all of my favorite people in one place.

Rather than talking about NQC though (as that is the hot topic right now isn't it?) - why not talk about something different all together. I'm done talking about all the things that are wrong with this industry and what needs to be changed. I'm sick and tired of hearing about gossip of who left what group and why. I'm sick and tired of all the garbage that seems to be so prevalent - and that garbage is all the negativity that seems to be taking over this industry.

What's right about this industry you may ask? What's right is that songs are still being written that minister to the hearts and minds of the listeners. What's right is that there are still artists out there who aren't afraid to pause their program for an instant in which God wants to move.

I was recently sitting in the audience for Legacy Five's Labor Day Celebration. Greater Vision was on, and truth be told I've never been a huge fan of the hugely orchestrated and traditional style of Greater Vision (though my respect for those guys is through the roof), and for some reason I was really intent on listening to them at the event. As they began to sing "It Pays to Pray" - I realized that this is a once in a lifetime kind of song for this group. Why is it a once in a lifetime kind of song? Because it hit me at the right moment when I needed to hear it the most. It ministered to me at a time when prayer was an especially active part of my walk with God. It spoke specifically to me at the time I needed it the most. Will the song go down as Greater Vision's most popular song ever like "My Name Is Lazarus"? Probably not - but it became a once in a lifetime song for ME at that moment. Greater Vision may never know that it had the impact that it did on me - but I am so thankful that they took the time to sing it during the set that I was a part of at Legacy Five's Labor Day Celebration.

I said all this to make this point: Southern Gospel is still serving its purpose, because we're still singing songs that have a message that the church needs to hear. Sure, for every "crying momma" song that is sung, there's another one like "It Prays to Pray," or The Perry's "If You Knew Him," or The Whisnants' "Even In the Valley," or Dove Brothers' "I Can Pray," or Mike & Kelly Bowling's "Your Cries Have Awoken the Master," or The Isaacs' "It Is Well (Elisha's Song)," or Talley Trio's "My Hope Is In the Lord," or Karen Peck & New River's "Four Days Late." These are songs that reach deep down into the depths of the sorrowful life and pull them up to see the redeeming light of God's love and plan in our lives.

Southern Gospel is still doing some things right. Let's at least sit up and take notice of that.

Rules for Red Box

As most of you know, I've recently become a rabid fan of this new device found at McDonald's and Wal-Marts all across the United States - Red Box. (OK, so I'm not a recent convert or anything - I've been renting from Red Box for almost two years now, but that's beside the point.)

Anyway - I'm only bringing up Red Box for one reason: etiquette when using a Red Box while other people are present.

I'm well aware that if you are at a Red Box and no one else is around - then all rules are off. There's no one to offend or tick off - so you're pretty safe. However, I did want to run over a few things that I've noticed should be "standard procedure" when using a Red Box and others are standing in line waiting to use one as well.

RULE #1:
You have to actually get out of your car to "wait in line" for use of a Red Box machine. I don't care if it's raining, snowing, sleeting, or pouring down fish from the heavens - if I have to stand outside in the inclement weather - so do you. If I walk up and get in line while you're sitting in your car waiting for the person ahead of you to get finished with the machine - don't get all huffy and drive off and give me the finger. It's not my fault that you're too lazy to get our of your car for a few minutes.

RULE #2:
It is never cool to stand in front of the Red Box and read the synopsis of every movie that there is available to rent. I don't care if you're the world's fastest reader - if there's a line behind you - don't stand there and read about the movies. I don't mind people reading about one or two (TOPS!) - but anymore than that and the people behind you are cursing at you under your breath. (Except me - cause I'm a good Christian...) You can go to the Red Box website and read all about the movies there if you want to.

RULE #3:
This kind of pertains to rule #2 - but warrants its own entry as well. It is not cool under any circumstance to call your party asking what they want to rent and then proceed to list off all the movies. (Again, if you are the only one at a machine - feel free!) First of all - we don't want to hear your conversation or your opinion about each movie - nor do we want to hear you read the synopsis to the other person on the phone either.

RULE #4:
If at all possible - reserve your movie online before getting to the machine. That way you're guaranteed to get the movie you want - and you don't have to make the people standing behind you wait for 20 minutes while you decide what movie you want to rent.

RULE #5:
Don't smoke. I know you're outside and all - but other people are standing by you. That's just rude.

RULE #6:
If you're standing at a Red Box machine with your significant other - it is never appropriate to have a make-out session while standing in line. Whispering in one another's ears and making googly eyes at each other is acceptable - but still annoying.

RULE #7:
It's totally acceptable to talk to the other people in line - especially to get their take on certain movies. It's also a good way to find out if the person is renting a movie or just returning.

RULE #8:
After said conversation you find out that the person behind is only returning a rental and you want to rent 4 movies - it's only polite that you let that person behind you to return theirs before you start searching for movies. I wouldn't offer the person after them - because, well - you can only be so nice. Am I right?

RULE #9:
Have your credit card ready to swipe before you get to the machine. We don't want to see you rummage through your purse or have to run back to your car to get your wallet. Let's think ahead people.

RULE #10:
If there is not anyone behind you or the person directly behind you is being a jerk and a half - all rules are off. Take your time!

I hope this list was beneficial to those who read it. Feel free to pass it on - but please give credit where credit is due!

Chris

Between Jesus & John Wayne…

Daniel Britt has posted a very interesting blog entry over at David Bruce Murray's Musicscribe.com regarding the Gaither Vocal Band's latest single "Jesus & John Wayne." (With that and Kyle Boreing's cool little note about studio hiccups, DBM's blog is becoming one of my favorite places to visit lately...)

I have to admit that I'm not a huge fan of the song. That's not because of the lyrical content of the song. I actually think it's a pretty clever lyric describing man's inner struggle of flesh vs. faith - and it's a great song that seems to fit Guy Penrod's image both on stage and off. My main gripes about the song are purely musical. I feel like the melody could have been a bit stronger, and the arrangement is just kind of there for me.

However, the main gripes of the Joy-FM listeners about the song were purely lyrical. This is a classic case of listeners only hearing the hook of the song and not listening to the whole thing. Why do people do this? I mean really, how do you get the entire grasp of a song without listening to the whole story?

Anyway - I didn't bring this up to make a huge argument for or against the song. There have been lots and lots of songs written regarding this topic (someone's already mentioned Mike Bowling's "Solid Rock & Shifting Sand" - one of my personal favorites!), so what makes this song so different? Any thoughts?

What Do You Want to Read?

So, I'm kind of at a loss of things to talk about right now, but I'm being pestered by folks to update more often.

Since I'm not exactly sure what to talk about - why don't you tell me what you'd like to hear my thoughts on...

It doesn't have to be Southern Gospel related. I'm open to discussing what you'd like to hear about...

2009 SGN Music Awards - Who did I vote for?

Now the voting is over in the 2009 SGN Music Awards, I thought I'd fill everyone in on who I voted for personally. These were my personal favorites of the year, outside of company affiliations, friendships, etc. (These are not the winners - just who I voted for. Winners will be announced at a special Awards Celebration on Tuesday, April 14, 2009 in Smyrna, Tennessee.)

SONG OF THE YEAR: "Your Cries Have Awoken the Master" - Mike & Kelly Bowling
Commentary: It was a very tough category - and honestly - I feel like it was one of the strongest years, if not the strongest year, that this category has seen since the inception of the SGN Music Awards in 2002. I ultimately went with Mike & Kelly over other FANTASTIC songs like "The Broken Ones," "Whispered Prayers," "When God Ran," and "Preach the Word." Very tough decision - but it's a fantastic song and Mike & Kelly Bowling pulled out a fantastic performance on it.

ALBUM OF THE YEAR: Faith to Believe - Mike & Kelly Bowling
Commentary: I stated in my review of this album that this was the best Southern Gospel album released this year - and I stand by that statement. Song selection, performances, arrangements - it was all just stellar. The Mike LeFevre Quartet's Nothin' But Good was a close second to me though.

PACESETTER: Canaan Records
Commentary: This was the first year that the Pacesetter nominees did not include an artist. I had a hard time deciding between all five nominees here. Christian Voice is a great new magazine that's really starting to make a name for itself. Chuck Peters is hands down the best journalist in Southern Gospel, and "The Southern Styles Show" is helping to take SG radio into the 21st century. Also, with the recent changes made to the National Quartet Convention this last year, they are also a viable contender. I ultimately went with Canaan Records. They released not only the best CD of the year to me, the also released the second best CD of the year to me (Mike LeFevre Quartet's Nothin' But Good and a stellar album from Kim Hopper. Plus, their podcasts are really a great way of thinking outside of the box.

BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST OF THE YEAR: Eighth Day
Commentary: Talk about another really tough category. Crabb Revival or Aaron & Amanda Crabb seemed the obvious choices here, but ultimately I couldn't pick one over the other - because I love them both so much. I ultimately went with Eighth Day - because they've worked very hard over the last few years, they have a great sound, and they are just super nice people. Plus, their album, Everything Holy, sounds fantastic.

MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR: Jim Brady (Booth Brothers)
Commentary: Man, talk about a tough category. Mike Bowling released, like I said, the best CD of the year with his wife, but Jim Brady had the edge for me. His solo album is just plain awesome, and his work on the Booth Brothers' Room For More really stood out.

FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR: Karen Peck Gooch (Karen Peck & New River)
Commentary: It's funny that I think Mike & Kelly Bowling released the best CD of the year, but didn't vote for either one of them in their respective vocal categories. I ultimately went with Karen on this because of her 4 back-to-back #1s. The gal's on fire - why not vote for her?

MALE GROUP OF THE YEAR: Dove Brothers
Commentary: These guys are continuing to have great years one right after the other. I don't think their Life recording was as good as Never Be the Same - but it's doing its job in helping to define in the new Dove Brothers sound. Mike LeFevre Quartet was a close second for me.

FEMALE GROUP OF THE YEAR: Amazed
Commentary: Much like the Dove Brothers, these girls are on a role...

MIXED GROUP OF THE YEAR: Karen Peck & New River
Commentary: Four back-to-back #1s and another great album release. That put them over the edge for me.

SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR (Artist): Becky & Sonya Isaacs
Commentary: Another tough category. The Isaacs sisters, Jim Brady, and Joseph Habedank are all on a role writing hit songs. I ultimately went with the songwriters of my Song of the Year choice...

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR (Artist): David Staton (Mike LeFevre Quartet)
Commentary: Staton does a great job of helping in the recording process for those on the Song Garden labels.

MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR: Micah Schweinsberg (Crabb Revival)
Commentary: The only non-piano player in the batch. If you've ever seen Micah live, you know he's one of the best.

BEST LIVE PERFORMER: Booth Brothers
Commentary: They do a great job of mixing entertainment and ministry in their concerts. They're on top right now, and this is a really big reason for it.

TRADITIONAL SOUTHERN SONG OF THE YEAR: "Hello After Goodbye" - Legacy Five
Commentary: I'm usually not a huge fan of L5's sound - but this was a great song and tribute to one of Southern Gospel's most popular artists (Roger Bennett). I was also a HUGE fan of "The Great I Am Still Is" by Triumphant Quartet - but ultimately went with L5 here.

TRADITIONAL SOUTHERN ALBUM OF THE YEAR: Moment of Truth - Gold City
Commentary: Gold City continues to do a fantastic job of stretching the boundaries of traditional southern Gospel.

PROGRESSIVE SOUTHERN SONG OF THE YEAR: "Your Cries Have Awoken the Master" - Mike & Kelly Bowling
Commentary: My overall pick for Song of the Year would easily translate into a vote in the breakaway categories as well.

PROGRESSIVE SOUTHERN ALBUM OF THE YEAR: Nothin' But Good - Mike LeFevre Quartet
Commentary: I finally got my chance to vote for this album. It was just a really really great album.

COUNTRY/BLUEGRASS SONG OF THE YEAR: "Cinderella" - Misty Freeman
Commentary: Extremely strong melody and a lyric that easily tugs at your heartstrings. Misty hit a homerun with this one.

COUNTRY/BLUEGRASS ALBUM OF THE YEAR: Faith to Believe - Mike & Kelly Bowling
Commentary: Again, my overall pick for Album of the Year should receive a vote in this breakaway category.

SPECIAL EVENT PROJECT OF THE YEAR: December: Hymns Where the Story Began, Chapter 2 - Mercy's Well
Commentary: This was a great Christmas album from one of Southern Gospel's most talented new artists. If you haven't heard this, you need to.

FAN FAVORITE ARTIST OF THE YEAR: Karen Peck & New River
Commentary: I get to vote for my favorite artist here. I did just that.

Who did you vote for?

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