Next Generation

Zach Allen

From old-time music, to psychology, to Cracker Barrel and the Incredible Hulk, these topics are all present in the life of Zach Allen.  And the excitement does not end there.  Not only does 19-year-old Zach travel, live full-time on his family’s bus, and sing gospel music with his family, The Allens, but he and his family are involved in Hope’s Cry International, a global ministry they founded that focuses on ministering to people in Uganda.  As one of the middle children in a family of ten, I’d say some time in the spotlight is well deserved.  Enjoy this interview getting to know Zach Allen!

Stacy Compagner: After looking at your own life, what is one piece of advice you have for the “next generation”?

Zach Allen:  I would highlight civility for the next generation. The world as I see it is already far too divided because people seem to have lost the ability to respect and show courtesy to those whom they disagree with. Of course, I do not advise for the next generation to be pliable in their faith; but I feel the best way to change the world is to be civil with those whom you disagree with.

SC:  What part do you sing?

ZA:  Generally I sing lead, but I can cover most any part that I am needed for.

SC:  When did you first start singing with your family?

ZA:  At the age that I was old enough to hold a microphone, most likely age three or four.

SC:  What is your favorite part about getting to travel and sing gospel music?

ZA:  Traveling is quite enjoyable to me. I always have enjoyed the opportunity to see most all of this great country and other countries.

SC:  What is the most amazing/memorable experience you have had so far in your singing career?

ZA:  I wouldn’t highlight any one specific thing. I personally believe that my life as a whole, which is heavily associated with my singing and my family, in and of itself has been amazing and memorable

SC:  What are some of your favorite groups to listen to?

ZA:  This might seem curious, but even though singing is very much a big part of my life, I am not what you would call a music connoisseur.  But out of the music I do listen to, I mostly enjoy musicals and old hits. For instance, one of my favorite songs right now is the song Auld Lang Syne

SC:  What is your favorite place that you have traveled to?  What is one place that you would like to travel to?

ZA:  By far, seeing as how I’m a beach person, my favorite place to have traveled to, to this date, is Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. But as far as destinations, I would like to go to the Caribbean Islands and/or Hawaii.

SC:  How would your friends or family describe you in three words?

ZA:  Probably comedic, resourceful, and knowledgeable.

SC:  Do you play any instruments?

ZA:  I fiddle with the drums every now and again.

SC:  Aside from the necessities, what are three things you could never live without?

ZA:  Sweet Tea, my headphones (they’re really nice headphones), and the LSU Tigers.

SC:  If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?

ZA:  Cracker Barrel vegetable plate with green beans, turnip greens, fried okra, and hash brown casserole.

SC:  If you could have a superpower, what would it be?

ZA:  Probably super strength, on account of the fact that most people say my superhero comp is the Incredible Hulk because I’m generally nice to everybody I meet, but if my buttons get pushed, I can get angry (lol).

SC:  What is your favorite book?

ZA:  I’ve never been much of a book reader, but my favorite book was actually a college textbook on psychology. I’m a big fan of psychology.

SC:  What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

ZA:  I’ve started to take up a real interest in painting, so when I get free time I’d like to cultivate that hobby.

SC:  What person in gospel music has had the greatest influence on you?

ZA:  Jason Crabb.

SC:  What are your hopes for the future regarding college/careers/ministry?

ZA:  I am currently attending online college for a business administration degree. But as far as a career, I have a lot of prospects but I haven’t made any decisions. I’m not sure exactly what I want to do, but I’m sure God will show me.

SC:  Now I have to ask the inevitable question — what have you been doing to stay busy during quarantine?  How have the circumstances surrounding this virus affected you?

ZA:  Funny enough, online college doesn’t shut down during quarantine, so I’ve been just as busy as ever. So quite honestly, I’ve just been doing some catch-up work on all of my classes.

SC:  Is there anything exciting in the works or in store for your family’s music ministry?

ZA:  Many, many things on the horizon, however a lot of them are top secret, so I’m not at liberty to disclose such information. However, I can let everyone know that season five of A Cappella Sunday, which is a series we have run on our Facebook page for quite some time, is now available and can be seen.

SC:  Is there anything God has been teaching you lately in this stage of your life?

ZA:  Sacrifice is what comes to mind, and I mean over the big things. We only have one life to live.  God only gives us this opportunity on earth. If we can make a difference in the world, it’s worth every sacrifice we can make, whether a sacrifice of comfort, pleasure, security, or even safety. I believe that everyone needs to be ready to sacrifice if God is to ask them to.

Stacy Compagner

Raised on a farm in Michigan, I am currently a Junior at Libertas Christian School. I am an avid fan of southern gospel music and enjoy singing with my sister for special music and attending as many concerts as we can. I also bake and work as a waitress at a local family restaurant. In my spare time, I enjoy writing, playing flute, spending time with animals, and doing crafts.
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