By Charles M Smith
Potential
At this point I must inform you that music like many other things in life such as money and even religion has the potential for good as well as evil. If we believe that music is spiritual than it is crucial to understand that there is a good and an evil side to spirituality and spiritual things. For example the same knife that can be used to prepare a wonderful meal can also be used to mortally wound some one. The same wealth that can be used to feed the poor and promote positive change in the world could also be used to fund the trafficking of Illegal drugs or guns. In recent years the positive potential of music has been rediscovered as many mental health and therapy organizations are now including the use of music as a part of there therapy and recovery programs. Yet this is nothing new, in the bible there is a story of a great king named saul who was tormented in his soul and mind by an evil spirit. it was recommended to him that he employ the service of a skillful minstrel(musician). He was made aware of a young man named david who it was said was a cunning(expert,master) musician. David was brought before the king and he became the kings personal attendant. Whenever king Saul would start having one of his tormenting episodes David would play his instrument and the scriptures declare that as david played Saul would be refreshed and made well (read more in I SAMUEL 16). The positive potential of music to change our society and culture cannot be underestimated. Which brings us to the next thing we must understand about music.
The Highest Purpose
Someone has aptly stated: "that when the purpose of something is not known abuse is inevitable" when those who have been uniquely gifted to release the dimension of music into the earth fail to understand the reason for there gift it is possible to unknowingly(and in some cases knowingly) use the musical gift in a way that it becomes a conduit for the release of evil,perversion and negativity into the world. This is where we come to a very important point. music in and of it self is a neutral spiritual force. what do I mean? Its like a glove lying on a table it's just there until someone with the ability to give it form puts his or her hand into it and then it assumes the form of the hand that it contains. In the same way music with all of its potential and possibility simply hoovers in the spiritual atmosphere around us awaiting to be employed by some one who has the musical ability to take it and form it into a song or composition and bring the awareness of it into the earth for the world to hear. When this process takes place the music simply assumes the form of the one forming it. What ever philosophy of life or worldview the gifted musician holds good or bad will inevitably be transmitted into there music and songs. So what is the purpose of music? I do not believe that we can answer this question, until we answer the question of the origin of music. since we know that music is a neutral spiritual dimension, we must then conclude that it has a spiritual origin. in other words, that which is spiritual comes from that which is spiritual. The bible declares in the book of John 4:24 that "God is a spirit" one of the most profound aspects of God's spiritual nature is the creative aspect of his nature, in fact the first thing we learn about God in the bible is that he is the creator of all things,that means that every realm,domain,sphere,atmosphere and dimension was created by God(read Genesis 1 &2). in the book of revelations 4:11 it says "worthy are you our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for you have created all things, and because of your will they existed, and were created. All things include the dimension of music with all its potential and power which includes those who have been gifted musically to release the benefit of music into the earth. Herein lies the purpose of music.
Let me say right here that I am not talking about whether your chosen genre is classical, jazz, pop, r&b gospel or contemporary Christian, the issue is one of heart motivation. As a gifted musician,composer,singer what is the heart motivation behind your music. The bible says that that our highest motivation as musician's should be to perform,write and produce music that glorifies God and demonstrates the greatness of his creative spirit in the earth. Might I add that that this does not always mean that the songs or musical compositions have to be in the genre of what is known as gospel or Christian music. If the music was inspired buy Gods creative spirit and the heart motivation of the musician or composer was to inspire and add value and meaning to the life of the hearers in a positive, creative,powerful and beautiful way than this is a good work that glorifies God. This is what we learn when study the life of Great composers of the past such as Bach, Handel, Beethoven and Mozart. These men were master musicians and composers who were aware that there musical genius was a divine gift, but their music was more than just religious, it was inspired by Gods creative spirit within them. I only use the classical genre to make a point not to say that it is better or more meaningful than another genre,however there is reason why the works of these men are still used and referenced in the musical programs of our institutions of higher learning and even today are used as bench marks of Excellence and music mastery.
My point is that music has a purpose and the potential to change the spiritual climate of the earth. And I believe that we are about to see a modern renaissance as the creative spirit of God inspires musically gifted individuals both inside and outside of the church to begin to compose and bring fourth music that will promote change in our societal and cultural landscape.
If you are a musician reading this and in your heart you sense that this is your destiny begin by asking God to change your heart, recognize that your gift was given to you by the God of heaven and earth to be a conduit of his presence and voice to the world. dedicate your life to knowing God in a personal way and dedicate yourself to the craft of your music as a service for humanities good.
Charles M. Smith is a guitarist,psalmist, worship leader, songwriter, author and full time Minister and. He is the founder of CMS Ministries and Clearzone Music Inc. in addition he serves as the national director of worship for the Liberty International Network of churches.
For more information or to receive our free periodic newletter and E-courses Email us at: cmsministries@aweber.com, you can also visit http://www.cmsministries.org
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Charles_M_Smith
For more of your christian music needs go to http://tgmonlineshopping.com
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Monday, July 20, 2009
Pauline Principles Of Church Music In Verses XVI And XVII Of Colossians 3
By Oliver Harding
INTRODUCTION
There are four principles deduced from the New Testament worship which, if applied, will help produce a God-honouring music and worship ministry. These are found in Colossians 3:16,17 and they include the memorandum or message of music; means of music; medium or matrix of music and the motive of the musician.
MEMORANDUM OF MUSIC
The message of church or sacred music must be solidly based on the Word of God (Col. 3:16a). Musicians should be filled with an understanding of the Word of God and then communicate a biblically based text though their music. God's Word must not only fill our hearts but must permeate the lyrics of the songs we use to worship God as well. Thus, in evaluating music for use in church, we must ask ourselves, 'is the text of this song consistent with Biblical truth?' The theology of suffering, for instance, is reflected in song. In the 1970s, most choruses sung emphasized personal confession of one's faith in Christ and the willingness to take up the cross and identify in the fellowship of His suffering. Today, many messages identify suffering and sin or lack of faith. The chorus 'Mi a nor go sufa, a nor go beg for bread; God of mirakul, na my Papa O" ("I will neither suffer nor beg for bread because the God of Miracles is my Father") is very popular. It must be emphasized that even though it would be wrong to crave for or go in search of opportunities to suffer, biblical theology supports the view point that a Christian is a spiritual athlete and suffering is an inescapable part of the training programme.
Another important aspect of this principle involves the quality of God's Word in the musician ('richly dwell in you'). The Word of God must inhabit and become a part of our being. It should be the controlling aspect of every Christian musician's disposition. The world teaches musicians to do their thing (aspire for acceptance) and to strive to be 'great musicians'. For the Christian, however, the Word of God should be his regulation.
The message or memorandum of the music ('the Word of God) is also evident in our lives 'with all wisdom'. This refers to our ability to discern between right and wrong, proper and improper, ethical and unethical in our selection and use of music. The Christian musician needs the wisdom of God to know what song to use, how to minister (and not perform) it, and what innovations (if any) are appropriate in worship.
MEANS OF MUSIC
Music should focus on a two-fold method of 'teaching and admonishing one another' (Col.3:16b). To teach means to instruct, explain and direct. Thus, music directed to God should be far more than entertainment or personal enjoyment. It should be a tool for biblical instruction and training. A common song, 'Read your Bible pray every day if you want to grow', is a very clear biblical instruction. Many people have been able to remember the books in the Bible as a result of music being applied to this list of sixty six 'titles'. This is one of the reasons why music is so important in the ministry of Christian education. Music in the church should be more than the prelude to the Bible lessons or sermon. The right kind of music can be used powerfully to teach the truth of God's Word. Many of the great hymn writers such as Martin Luther, Isaac Watts and Charles Wesley realized the power of music to teach and that was why they wrote hymns rich in doctrinal truths. Music can also be used to help people know the very words of Scriptures, especially those which seem difficult to memorize. Many choristers know the piece, Rejoice in the Lord Always, even before realizing that the entire rendition is recorded in Philippians 4:4-7. 'Admonish' means to invite, encourage, shape and mold. A Scriptural music ministry provides opportunity for musicians to encourage, built up, and spiritually nurture fellow believers. Christian musicians have a responsibility to teach and to train people to understand and perform God's work. All believers are to be involved in the ministry of music regardless of their musical skills. God desires for us to minister to Him and to one another with our sacrifice of music. No one is to be merely a spectator in the music programme of the local church.
MEDIUM OF MUSIC
Paul instructs us to use "psalms and hymns and spiritual songs". This illustrates that there should be variety in church music. A church which only sings only one set would not be fulfilling Scripture according to this passage. Canticles and choruses could fall under psalms. A popular canticle rendered at wedding ceremonies is Beati Omnes or Psalm 128. Everyone who fears God is regarded as blessed and such an individual would eat the work of his or her hands. The wife is pronounced as a fruitful vine and the children like olive plants around the table. Seeing one's grandchildren is regarded as a blessing. The chorus 'I will bless the Lord at all times' is taken from Psalm 34:1-2. The psalmist proclaims that he'd bless God at all times and would boast in Him. David thanks and praises God for deliverance from the Philistines. Other songs are classified as spiritual songs. Probably this would be a convenient portion to classify gospel songs. It is evident that God admonishes to use different kinds of Christian songs to praise the Lord.
MOTIVE OF THE MUSICIAN
The musicians must have the proper motives in their music - "Singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father" (v.17). Misguided motives and selfish ambitions have hindered many gifted musicians from communicating the Gospel of Jesus Christ. There is no room in the service of God for musicians with arrogant, self-righteous, condescending, or self-serving attitudes. For our music and worship to be acceptable to God, it must begin in our hearts. God is more concerned about the music in our hearts than that on the lips. God is in the business of changing hearts - molding, strengthening, developing and sanctifying them for His glory. Music is a means of communicating outwardly what God is doing inwardly. The Christian musician should not aim just drawing attention to his own gifts but to bring praise to God. As we minister to God through music, God will minister to us. Many Ministers of Music, music groups, soloists or instrumentalists have been fooled by Satan into thinking that God is impressed with abilities, talents, technology and ego and that He will bless us according to the level of the compliments we receive for our performance. An old saying paraphrased says, 'the musical talents you possess are God's gifts to you. How you develop and use those musical talents are your gifts to God'. Do we use musical gifts to glorify the name of the Lord or for personal gain? Do we concentrate on lifting the name of the Lord with a Christ-like life style or do we exhibit lax moral standards and rely on our musical gifts. Amos 6:23-24 clearly warns us to "take thou away from me the noise of thy songs; for I will not hear the melody of thy voils. But let judgment run as waters and righteousness as a mighty stream".
AUTHOR SIGNATUREOliver L.T. Harding, who obtained his GCE O & A Levels from the Sierra Leone Grammar School and the Albert Academy respectively, is currently Senior & Acting Librarian of Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone. He is a part time lecturer at the Institute of Library, Information & Communication Studies (INSLICS), Fourah Bay College and the Extension Programme at the Evangelical College of Theology (T.E.C.T) at Hall Street, Brookfields; Vice President of the Sierra Leone Association of Archivists, Librarians & Information Scientists (SLAALIS); a member of the American Theological Library Association (ATLA) and an associate of the Chartered Institute of Library & Information Professionals (CILIP). His certificates, secular and sacred, include: a certificate and diploma from the Freetown Bible Training Centre; an upper second class B.A. Hons. Degree in Modern History (F.B.C.); a post-graduate diploma from the Institute of Library Studies (INSLIBS, F.B.C) a masters degree from the Institute of Library, Information & Communication Studies (INSLICS, F.B.C.) and a masters degree in Biblical Studies from West Africa Theological Seminary, affiliate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he won the prize for academic excellence as the Best Graduating Student in 2005. Oliver, a writer, musician and theologian, is married (to Francess) with two children (Olivia & Francis).Email: oltharding@yahoo.comMobile: 232-2233-460-330
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Oliver_Harding
To find out more about christian music and lyrics go to http://tgmonlineshopping.com/
INTRODUCTION
There are four principles deduced from the New Testament worship which, if applied, will help produce a God-honouring music and worship ministry. These are found in Colossians 3:16,17 and they include the memorandum or message of music; means of music; medium or matrix of music and the motive of the musician.
MEMORANDUM OF MUSIC
The message of church or sacred music must be solidly based on the Word of God (Col. 3:16a). Musicians should be filled with an understanding of the Word of God and then communicate a biblically based text though their music. God's Word must not only fill our hearts but must permeate the lyrics of the songs we use to worship God as well. Thus, in evaluating music for use in church, we must ask ourselves, 'is the text of this song consistent with Biblical truth?' The theology of suffering, for instance, is reflected in song. In the 1970s, most choruses sung emphasized personal confession of one's faith in Christ and the willingness to take up the cross and identify in the fellowship of His suffering. Today, many messages identify suffering and sin or lack of faith. The chorus 'Mi a nor go sufa, a nor go beg for bread; God of mirakul, na my Papa O" ("I will neither suffer nor beg for bread because the God of Miracles is my Father") is very popular. It must be emphasized that even though it would be wrong to crave for or go in search of opportunities to suffer, biblical theology supports the view point that a Christian is a spiritual athlete and suffering is an inescapable part of the training programme.
Another important aspect of this principle involves the quality of God's Word in the musician ('richly dwell in you'). The Word of God must inhabit and become a part of our being. It should be the controlling aspect of every Christian musician's disposition. The world teaches musicians to do their thing (aspire for acceptance) and to strive to be 'great musicians'. For the Christian, however, the Word of God should be his regulation.
The message or memorandum of the music ('the Word of God) is also evident in our lives 'with all wisdom'. This refers to our ability to discern between right and wrong, proper and improper, ethical and unethical in our selection and use of music. The Christian musician needs the wisdom of God to know what song to use, how to minister (and not perform) it, and what innovations (if any) are appropriate in worship.
MEANS OF MUSIC
Music should focus on a two-fold method of 'teaching and admonishing one another' (Col.3:16b). To teach means to instruct, explain and direct. Thus, music directed to God should be far more than entertainment or personal enjoyment. It should be a tool for biblical instruction and training. A common song, 'Read your Bible pray every day if you want to grow', is a very clear biblical instruction. Many people have been able to remember the books in the Bible as a result of music being applied to this list of sixty six 'titles'. This is one of the reasons why music is so important in the ministry of Christian education. Music in the church should be more than the prelude to the Bible lessons or sermon. The right kind of music can be used powerfully to teach the truth of God's Word. Many of the great hymn writers such as Martin Luther, Isaac Watts and Charles Wesley realized the power of music to teach and that was why they wrote hymns rich in doctrinal truths. Music can also be used to help people know the very words of Scriptures, especially those which seem difficult to memorize. Many choristers know the piece, Rejoice in the Lord Always, even before realizing that the entire rendition is recorded in Philippians 4:4-7. 'Admonish' means to invite, encourage, shape and mold. A Scriptural music ministry provides opportunity for musicians to encourage, built up, and spiritually nurture fellow believers. Christian musicians have a responsibility to teach and to train people to understand and perform God's work. All believers are to be involved in the ministry of music regardless of their musical skills. God desires for us to minister to Him and to one another with our sacrifice of music. No one is to be merely a spectator in the music programme of the local church.
MEDIUM OF MUSIC
Paul instructs us to use "psalms and hymns and spiritual songs". This illustrates that there should be variety in church music. A church which only sings only one set would not be fulfilling Scripture according to this passage. Canticles and choruses could fall under psalms. A popular canticle rendered at wedding ceremonies is Beati Omnes or Psalm 128. Everyone who fears God is regarded as blessed and such an individual would eat the work of his or her hands. The wife is pronounced as a fruitful vine and the children like olive plants around the table. Seeing one's grandchildren is regarded as a blessing. The chorus 'I will bless the Lord at all times' is taken from Psalm 34:1-2. The psalmist proclaims that he'd bless God at all times and would boast in Him. David thanks and praises God for deliverance from the Philistines. Other songs are classified as spiritual songs. Probably this would be a convenient portion to classify gospel songs. It is evident that God admonishes to use different kinds of Christian songs to praise the Lord.
MOTIVE OF THE MUSICIAN
The musicians must have the proper motives in their music - "Singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father" (v.17). Misguided motives and selfish ambitions have hindered many gifted musicians from communicating the Gospel of Jesus Christ. There is no room in the service of God for musicians with arrogant, self-righteous, condescending, or self-serving attitudes. For our music and worship to be acceptable to God, it must begin in our hearts. God is more concerned about the music in our hearts than that on the lips. God is in the business of changing hearts - molding, strengthening, developing and sanctifying them for His glory. Music is a means of communicating outwardly what God is doing inwardly. The Christian musician should not aim just drawing attention to his own gifts but to bring praise to God. As we minister to God through music, God will minister to us. Many Ministers of Music, music groups, soloists or instrumentalists have been fooled by Satan into thinking that God is impressed with abilities, talents, technology and ego and that He will bless us according to the level of the compliments we receive for our performance. An old saying paraphrased says, 'the musical talents you possess are God's gifts to you. How you develop and use those musical talents are your gifts to God'. Do we use musical gifts to glorify the name of the Lord or for personal gain? Do we concentrate on lifting the name of the Lord with a Christ-like life style or do we exhibit lax moral standards and rely on our musical gifts. Amos 6:23-24 clearly warns us to "take thou away from me the noise of thy songs; for I will not hear the melody of thy voils. But let judgment run as waters and righteousness as a mighty stream".
AUTHOR SIGNATUREOliver L.T. Harding, who obtained his GCE O & A Levels from the Sierra Leone Grammar School and the Albert Academy respectively, is currently Senior & Acting Librarian of Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone. He is a part time lecturer at the Institute of Library, Information & Communication Studies (INSLICS), Fourah Bay College and the Extension Programme at the Evangelical College of Theology (T.E.C.T) at Hall Street, Brookfields; Vice President of the Sierra Leone Association of Archivists, Librarians & Information Scientists (SLAALIS); a member of the American Theological Library Association (ATLA) and an associate of the Chartered Institute of Library & Information Professionals (CILIP). His certificates, secular and sacred, include: a certificate and diploma from the Freetown Bible Training Centre; an upper second class B.A. Hons. Degree in Modern History (F.B.C.); a post-graduate diploma from the Institute of Library Studies (INSLIBS, F.B.C) a masters degree from the Institute of Library, Information & Communication Studies (INSLICS, F.B.C.) and a masters degree in Biblical Studies from West Africa Theological Seminary, affiliate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he won the prize for academic excellence as the Best Graduating Student in 2005. Oliver, a writer, musician and theologian, is married (to Francess) with two children (Olivia & Francis).Email: oltharding@yahoo.comMobile: 232-2233-460-330
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Oliver_Harding
To find out more about christian music and lyrics go to http://tgmonlineshopping.com/
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Christian Music The Right Message For Your Kids
By Tim Eutin
Music has always been a big influence in the lives of young people. Elvis, the Beatles, U2 and others have left a mark on their generations. Unfortunately that influence has not always been positive. As parents we need to constantly monitor what is going into our children's minds and souls. The music that they listen to is something that we need to take a very close look at. What's on your son's iPod? What are they downloading on the computer?
Christian radio is a great way to introduce your children and teens to music with a message that will help to build them up in their faith. The quality of Christian music and the talent on Christian radio rivals or exceeds many non Christian stations. Christian music has grown from Southern Gospel quartets and Christian folk music to include Christian Hip Hop, Christian Rock, Christian Punk, Christian Latino, etc. Whatever style of music that your teens are listening to, Christian radio plays it.
The difference between Christian radio and secular radio is not the sound. The difference is found in the lyrics and usually the lifestyle of the groups singing the songs. This is important to understand. It may all sound the same to you, and the people singing the music may look somewhat similar, but what they are singing about is worlds apart. The difference is the message.
Christian rap sounds like rap music, Christian rock sounds like rock music, Christian punk music sounds like punk music. The difference is in the lyrics. A listener related this story to me. She was traveling in her car with her teenage daughter on a Saturday night. The radio was tuned into our Christian radio station which plays Southern Gospel music in the morning. However, our programming on Saturday night is geared to teens and is a mix of Christian Rock and Christian Rap music. As they drove down the highway the daughter was enjoying the music and couldn't believe that her mom was listening to rap music, "her music". After several miles the daughter asked what station it was and was surprised to find out it was her mom's Christian radio station. The daughter now listens regularly. Not only is she being fed spiritually on the Word that is the lyrics but the ministry between the songs provides positive reinforcement to what she is learning at home and in her youth group.
This story illustrates an important point: many of our kids listen to secular music by default. They don't know that there is a Christian alternative. They don't know that they can listen to the same sound but hear a different message. As parents we can point them to the Christian music alternative to what they are listening to. By doing this we can ensure that the music they are listening to lines up with our Christian values and not the worldly values found in secular music.
How to Find Christian Music Your Kids Will Listen To
If you are having a difficult time finding Christian music that your teens and children might enjoy listening to,or don't know where to start your search, look in the local telephone book for a Christian radio station. They should be able to help you find what you are looking for. You could also visit your local Christian book store. They usually sell a variety of music and will be able to help you. Another good resource is the internet.
A key point to remember is that the music will sound similar to what you kids are already listening to. So if you don't like the sound of what they are listening to now, you probably won't like to sound of the Christian music alternative. Look past the sound to the message and rejoice that your kids are using ear buds!
Tim Eutin is the President of The Rock Marketing Group and hosts a daily four hour Christian radio show on the He's Alive Radio Network. Visit http://www.tim-christianradio.blogspot.com/ for more information and a link to tune in online.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_Eutin
For more music info go to http://tgmonlineshopping.com/
Music has always been a big influence in the lives of young people. Elvis, the Beatles, U2 and others have left a mark on their generations. Unfortunately that influence has not always been positive. As parents we need to constantly monitor what is going into our children's minds and souls. The music that they listen to is something that we need to take a very close look at. What's on your son's iPod? What are they downloading on the computer?
Christian radio is a great way to introduce your children and teens to music with a message that will help to build them up in their faith. The quality of Christian music and the talent on Christian radio rivals or exceeds many non Christian stations. Christian music has grown from Southern Gospel quartets and Christian folk music to include Christian Hip Hop, Christian Rock, Christian Punk, Christian Latino, etc. Whatever style of music that your teens are listening to, Christian radio plays it.
The difference between Christian radio and secular radio is not the sound. The difference is found in the lyrics and usually the lifestyle of the groups singing the songs. This is important to understand. It may all sound the same to you, and the people singing the music may look somewhat similar, but what they are singing about is worlds apart. The difference is the message.
Christian rap sounds like rap music, Christian rock sounds like rock music, Christian punk music sounds like punk music. The difference is in the lyrics. A listener related this story to me. She was traveling in her car with her teenage daughter on a Saturday night. The radio was tuned into our Christian radio station which plays Southern Gospel music in the morning. However, our programming on Saturday night is geared to teens and is a mix of Christian Rock and Christian Rap music. As they drove down the highway the daughter was enjoying the music and couldn't believe that her mom was listening to rap music, "her music". After several miles the daughter asked what station it was and was surprised to find out it was her mom's Christian radio station. The daughter now listens regularly. Not only is she being fed spiritually on the Word that is the lyrics but the ministry between the songs provides positive reinforcement to what she is learning at home and in her youth group.
This story illustrates an important point: many of our kids listen to secular music by default. They don't know that there is a Christian alternative. They don't know that they can listen to the same sound but hear a different message. As parents we can point them to the Christian music alternative to what they are listening to. By doing this we can ensure that the music they are listening to lines up with our Christian values and not the worldly values found in secular music.
How to Find Christian Music Your Kids Will Listen To
If you are having a difficult time finding Christian music that your teens and children might enjoy listening to,or don't know where to start your search, look in the local telephone book for a Christian radio station. They should be able to help you find what you are looking for. You could also visit your local Christian book store. They usually sell a variety of music and will be able to help you. Another good resource is the internet.
A key point to remember is that the music will sound similar to what you kids are already listening to. So if you don't like the sound of what they are listening to now, you probably won't like to sound of the Christian music alternative. Look past the sound to the message and rejoice that your kids are using ear buds!
Tim Eutin is the President of The Rock Marketing Group and hosts a daily four hour Christian radio show on the He's Alive Radio Network. Visit http://www.tim-christianradio.blogspot.com/ for more information and a link to tune in online.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_Eutin
For more music info go to http://tgmonlineshopping.com/
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
33 MILES Band - Christian Music Artists
By Richard Blake
33 Miles are a popular American contemporary Christian all male group from Franklin, Tennessee. The band was formed in 2005 at Brentwood, TN, USA and released their debut album, 33Miles, two years later in 2007. The band's distinctive musical form combines elements of Pop and Christian Rock with a strong and easily recognizable Country element.
33 Miles comprise three talented musicians: Jason Barton, Chris Lockwood and Collin Stoddard. Jason is the group's lead vocalist and is from Gilbert, Louisiana. Chris, from Mobile, Alabama, provides backing vocals and plays the guitar; while Collin, from Craig, Colorado, also provides backing vocals and is an accomplished keys and piano player. The band is heavily influenced by the church and each of the members is married, managing to combine solid Christian family life with a busy and demanding touring schedule.
The group's first album, 33 Miles was released in April 10, 2007 by INO records, reaching number 8 on the Billboard Top Heatseekers album chart. This debut album also made a creditable 16th place on Billboard's Top Christian Albums chart.
The band's name was derived from the number of years Jesus Christ lived before being crucified and this theme has had a powerful and enduring influence in the life of the group and in their musical expression.
Jason Barton, in describing the redeeming power of Jesus, says: "He was a friend to the friendless, He loved the unlovable and He gave of Himself selflessly by dying on the cross in our place so that we could live forever." An insight on just how powerfully this theme continues to drive the band can be glimpsed from their lead vocalist when he says: "We want to follow Christ. We want our 'Miles' to have purpose and meaning and to make a difference for the Kingdom of God. We aren't promised a certain number of miles, so what are we going to do with the 'Miles' that we are given?"
Fans are in no doubt what this talented band is doing with their mileage on Earth as they continue to inspire Christian music lovers all over the world with their poignant and powerful message. Their second album, One Life, was released in September 16, 2008 by INO records and resounds with a powerful urgency, reminding Christians the importance of making their life on Earth worthwhile, meaningful and aligned to God's purpose, in the time that we have. Jason Barton puts it candidly: "The theme of the album is simple; it is about loving God and living every mile to the fullest."
The media have been quick to recognize the rich musical talent of this enduring young band from Franklin, Tennessee and it was not a surprise to anybody in the music industry when the group was nominated for the Gospel Music Association Dove Award for New Artist of the Year.
As they continue to inspire multitudes with their music and inspiring spiritual message, they are sure to gain more awards and recognition in the remaining 'Miles' they have on Earth.
You can view Christian song lyrics online. You can also view 33 Miles Christian lyrics and download their songs in mp3 format.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Blake
For more on christian music visit http://tgmonlineshopping.com
33 Miles are a popular American contemporary Christian all male group from Franklin, Tennessee. The band was formed in 2005 at Brentwood, TN, USA and released their debut album, 33Miles, two years later in 2007. The band's distinctive musical form combines elements of Pop and Christian Rock with a strong and easily recognizable Country element.
33 Miles comprise three talented musicians: Jason Barton, Chris Lockwood and Collin Stoddard. Jason is the group's lead vocalist and is from Gilbert, Louisiana. Chris, from Mobile, Alabama, provides backing vocals and plays the guitar; while Collin, from Craig, Colorado, also provides backing vocals and is an accomplished keys and piano player. The band is heavily influenced by the church and each of the members is married, managing to combine solid Christian family life with a busy and demanding touring schedule.
The group's first album, 33 Miles was released in April 10, 2007 by INO records, reaching number 8 on the Billboard Top Heatseekers album chart. This debut album also made a creditable 16th place on Billboard's Top Christian Albums chart.
The band's name was derived from the number of years Jesus Christ lived before being crucified and this theme has had a powerful and enduring influence in the life of the group and in their musical expression.
Jason Barton, in describing the redeeming power of Jesus, says: "He was a friend to the friendless, He loved the unlovable and He gave of Himself selflessly by dying on the cross in our place so that we could live forever." An insight on just how powerfully this theme continues to drive the band can be glimpsed from their lead vocalist when he says: "We want to follow Christ. We want our 'Miles' to have purpose and meaning and to make a difference for the Kingdom of God. We aren't promised a certain number of miles, so what are we going to do with the 'Miles' that we are given?"
Fans are in no doubt what this talented band is doing with their mileage on Earth as they continue to inspire Christian music lovers all over the world with their poignant and powerful message. Their second album, One Life, was released in September 16, 2008 by INO records and resounds with a powerful urgency, reminding Christians the importance of making their life on Earth worthwhile, meaningful and aligned to God's purpose, in the time that we have. Jason Barton puts it candidly: "The theme of the album is simple; it is about loving God and living every mile to the fullest."
The media have been quick to recognize the rich musical talent of this enduring young band from Franklin, Tennessee and it was not a surprise to anybody in the music industry when the group was nominated for the Gospel Music Association Dove Award for New Artist of the Year.
As they continue to inspire multitudes with their music and inspiring spiritual message, they are sure to gain more awards and recognition in the remaining 'Miles' they have on Earth.
You can view Christian song lyrics online. You can also view 33 Miles Christian lyrics and download their songs in mp3 format.
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