Interview with TheSpiritRadio.com
Spirit Radio:
Where are you from originally and what sort of
things were you into growing up?
JS: Born &
Raised in Oklahoma City. I was in to individual sports growing up like
motocross, BMX and heavy metal music of the 80's.
SR: How did you
get started in the music business?
JS: Began
playing guitar at the age of 15. I started playing in cover bands in clubs at
18. Moved to Nashville when I was 22 but I got kicked off music row for being
way too original. Go figure...
SR:
How long have you been doing what you are doing now?
JS: Have been
leading worship since about 1996. Have been writing contemporary worship songs
for the last 8 years.
SR: Who were
some of your musical influences?
JS: As a young
musician I was mostly influenced by the music of the late 70's, as a guitar
player I was wow'd by the guitar heroes of the 80's. But today I study the works of
devoted artists, writers and leaders in worship ministries that model a
passionate and uninhibited worship posture and brokenness before their audience
of One.
SR: For those
who may not have heard you before, how would you describe your music?
JS: Post-Modern
Praise and Worship, maybe. Emergent? not... I really wish someone would tell me,
but I think the buck is still out on this one....
SR: What would
you say that most of your songs are about?
JS: Love songs
or prayers directed to or spoken to God.
SR: What are
your feelings toward Christians listening to secular music?
JS: Although I
don't listen to secular music much anymore, I do enjoy the works of some
musicians like Sting, Dave Matthews Band, and such. But a Christian should be
careful and selective of what message
they're filling their
heart and mind with these days..
SR: How has God
been working in your life lately? What things has He been teaching you?
JS: God has
been growing me in body, mind and spirit through the teachings of His servants
Dr. Ted Broer and Author Teacher John Bevere.
SR: What is the most important thing that you would like people to take
away from your music or live shows?
JS: My prayer
is that my music will somehow assist people in making a heart felt connection
with the Holy Spirit in private listening and in corporate worship services.
SR:
What is your favorite bible verse?
JS: Psalm 19
SR: What things
do you like to do in your spare time?
JS: I am first
a Worshiper, Husband, Father and then a musician. I have many skills, hobbies
and a professional secular career, but writing and leading corporate worship is
my passion.
SR: Who is your
favorite Christian artist?
JS: Paul
Coleman, Israel Houghton, Charlie Hall, Darrell Evans & Rich Mullins.