Monday, Nov 23, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Mary Mary

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and Erica Campbell of Mary Mary. In our interview Erica talks about the duo’s recent American Music Award, what it means to her to be a light in the darkness, watching Desperate Housewives, and what it was like to meet Janet Jackson on the red carpet.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Mary Mary is a two-time Grammy award winning Platinum American gospel music duo, consisting of sisters Erica Campbell and Trecina ‘Tina’ Campbell. The duo are often credited along with Kirk Franklin for broadening the fan base of urban contemporary gospel in the 2000s by introducing elements of soul music, hip hop, funk and jazz. Mary Mary broke onto the music scene with their popular song Shackles (Praise You) which is considered one of the pioneering songs of urban contemporary gospel music.

The duo recently won an American Music Award for Favorite Contemporary Inspirational Artist.

To follow Mary Mary on Twitter: @TheRealMaryMary

To find out more about Mary Mary go to www.mary-mary.com and www.ilovemarymary.com

We’d like to thank the Erica Campbell for answering some of our burning questions. A very special thank you Mike Navarra of Sony Music for setting up the interview for us.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 3:35 PM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Friday, Nov 20, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Jared C. Wilson

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore, Matthew Robbins, and Jared C. Wilson, author of “Your Jesus Is Too Safe. In our interview Jared talks about his book, the least talked about aspects of Jesus as well as false versions, the spiritual landscape of his environment, and the dangers of idolizing Christian pastors.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Jared Wilson is the pastor of Middletown Church in Middletown Springs, Vermont, and a writer of articles, essay, and short stories appearing in various publications. His book Your Jesus is Too Safe is now available from Kregel Publications. Wilson's Bible study resource titled Abide: Practicing the Rhythms of the Kingdom in a Consumer Culture releases from Threads Media in Spring 2010.

To follow Jared on Twitter: @JaredCWilson

To find out more about Jared and his ministry go to www.jaredwilson.com and www.gospeldrivenchurch.com.

We’d like to thank the Jared C. Wilson for answering some of our burning questions.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 10:07 AM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Sunday, Nov 15, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Phil Wickham

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore, Joe Crabb, and artist Phil Wickham. In our interview Phil talks about his new album “Heaven & Earth,” his thoughts on Donald Miller’s “Searching for God Knows What” and Randy Alcorn’s “Heaven,” the difference between his acoustic shows and a show featuring a full band, and his love for the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Phil Wickham’s music has been called every flowery adjective in the thesaurus and some that may have even been made up. And while they are often accurate descriptors they are at the same time distracting. When hearing these buzz words it’s too easy to lump an artist into a meaningless equation consisting of two musical references, a vague genre title and a classic predecessor. Welcome to missing the point.

The point is that Wickham is at his core a humble and sincere artist who writes songs and worships God using the medium of music. It is with that brush that he paints images of a loving and creative God across the canvases of listeners’ hearts and minds.

We’d like to thank the Phil Wickham for answering some of our burning questions. A very special thank you to Errine Garnett of The M Collective for setting up the interview for us.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 3:03 PM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Friday, Nov 13, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Phil Hester

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and comic book artist and author, Phil Hester. In our interview Phil talks about how he got his start in the industry, his latest title “Days Missing,” the idea behind the series, and when he decided to end the story the way he did.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Phil Hester is an Eisner Award-nominated artist.

Born in eastern Iowa, Phil went on to study at the University of Iowa. His pencilling credits include Swamp Thing, Brave New World, Flinch, Ultimate Marvel Team-Up, Clerks: The Lost Scene, The Crow: Waking Nightmares, The Wretch (nominated for the 1997 Eisner Award for Best New Series), Aliens: Purge, and Green Arrow.

His most recent mini-series is ‘Days Missing’ with Archaia Comics.

To find out more about ‘Days Missing’ check out www.daysmissing.com or www.archaia.com

To follow Phil Hester on Twitter: @PhilHester

Check out Phil’s blog: www.shocktraumastudios.com

We’d like to thank the Phil Hester for answering some of our burning questions. A very special thank you to Mel Caylo of Archaia Comics for setting up the interview for us.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 7:07 AM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Wednesday, Nov 11, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Jaymes Reunion (Cameron Jaymes)

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and Cameron Jaymes, lead singer of Jaymes Reunion. Cameron talks about the story behind the band’s name, the decision to release a second EP, some of his favorite songs as well as the story behind them, and themed movie weeks.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Pressing the cassette into his Walkman, Cameron Jaymes lay on his bed and waited for the sounds of Paul McCartney’s 1971 album “Ram” to come through the headphones.

“My piano is boldly outspoken,” the voice growled and cooed. “Cats and kittens, don’t get left behind.”

So it was that Jaymes no longer wanted to play for the Los Angeles Dodgers when he grew up. He wanted to be a musician.

“I just loved the way that music made me feel,” Jaymes says now. “It evoked a certain feeling in me, a sort of excitement.”

This kind of emotional response is exactly what he and his bandmates hope to evoke with “Everything You’ve Been Looking For,” the debut album for Jaymes Reunion fall of 2008.

The band name stems from the fact that whenever these musicians get together, it feels like a family reunion. On guitar is Braydon Nelson, who went to the Berklee School of Music and met thru Cameron’s older brother, Justin. Eric Watson, on bass, went to Jaymes’ church. Jeremy Taylor and Jared Byers, taking turns on percussion, met Jaymes out on the tour circuit.

“As we made the record I really connected with the guys,” Jaymes says. “It became this family reunion of musicians, for me, and a revolving collaborative of buddies I’ve made.”

Together, the members of Jaymes Reunion “want to encourage people, to give them the feeling I felt when I heard that Paul McCartney record for the first time,” Jaymes says. “I’m driven by the idea of connecting people with songs.”

Born in August 1984 in Bakersfield, Calif., Jaymes started singing while in elementary school. His mother enrolled him and his brother in an after-school choir program, but it wasn’t until he was 15 that Jaymes focused seriously on singing and songwriting, penning his first piece for a girl he wanted to impress.

By age 18 he’d already toured with a ska-punk band and was spending time figuring out his own sound. He shared it, poolside, with some music execs in West Hollywood during Grammy Week 2006, and that led Jaymes to sign with BEC Recordings a division of Tooth & Nail Records.

Reminiscent of that Paul McCartney record, Jaymes Reunion’s debut features soaring, solid vocals backed by marching drums, pop-rock keyboards and strumming guitar influenced by U2, Coldplay, Switchfoot and The Bee Gees. Jaymes’ favorite sound — the piano — features prominently.

“My greatest inspirations come from everyday life,” he says. “I want to give people songs that warm them and help them feel alive.”

To find out more about Jaymes Reunion check out www.myspace.com/jaymesreunion

To follow Jaymes Reunion on Twitter: @JaymesReunion

Check out Cameron’s friend’s songwriting blog: www.skyfidelity.tumblr.com

We’d like to thank the Cameron Jaymes for answering some of our burning questions. A very special thank you to Lori Isaacs for setting up the interview for us.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 11:04 PM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Monday, Nov 09, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Delirious (Martin Smith)

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and Martin Smith, lead singer of Delirious. Martin talks about impending retirement, the band’s contribution to the worship genre, what’s next for some of their members, and some of the biggest moments they’ve experienced over the last 20 years.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Known as the forerunners of the modern worship movement and as one of the industry’s best live bands, Delirious? is saying “farewell.”

As their songs traveled across continents providing the soundtrack for Sunday morning church services, Delirious? was delivering its message to millions of fans through thousands of electrifying concerts in auditoriums, theatres and churches worldwide. And that message was always challenging its audiences to be “history makers,” which the band defines as people who look beyond their own needs to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

“The Delirious? story was only ever about responding to whatever it was God was doing through music that abandoned itself to Him,” says the band members collectively as they call a close to the Delirious? journey while staying ever committed to be history makers in God’s story, carrying individually His soundtrack with them.

Over the last decade, Delirious? touring highlights have included closing for the Pope in front of a million people in Germany, playing in front of hundreds of thousands in India, headlining the 2004 Olympic Celebrations at the Omonia Square in Athens, Greece, touring with Bon Jovi, Bryan Adams and Matchbox 20, and headlining at SWR3’s Arena of Sound 2004 music festival, where more than 80,000 fans filled the Schlossplatz in Stuttgart, Germany.

Having released 14 albums and selling nearly three millions recordings, and with seven Top 40 general market UK chart singles and two Top 30 general market UK chart albums, Delirious? grew out of the UK “Cutting Edge” youth meetings in the early 1990s. Regarded internationally as the galvanizing force that changed the face of worship worldwide, Delirious? members currently have 22 songs on the CCLI charts. With its music being played and sold in over 100 countries, the band has also been honored with two Gospel Music Association International Awards.

Delirious? is lead vocalist Martin Smith, guitarist Stu G, keyboardist Tim Jupp, bassist Jon Thatcher and drummer Paul Evans, who took over for Delirious? founding member Stew Smith in 2008.

To find out more about Delirious check out www.delirious.org.uk


To follow Delirious on Twitter: @Delirious

We’d like to thank the Martin Smith for answering some of our burning questions. A very special thank you to Rick Hoganson for setting up the interview for us.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 10:28 PM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Monday, Nov 02, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Shane & Shane

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and Shane Barnard of Shane & Shane. Shane talks about the new album “Everything is Different,” the belief that Jesus changes everything, his recent marriage to Bethany Dillon, and their upcoming Christmas tour. By the way, Shane was naked for a portion of this interview. (Just listen.)

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Shane & Shane has cemented its status as one of contemporary Christian music’s most consistent, compelling, and successful artists for nearly a decade. A staple on the fickle college circuit, the acoustic guitar-wielding duo has averaged 250-300 shows per year for most of its career. Between independent recordings, six studio releases, and a combo CD/DVD live project, its tally hovers around a half-million records sold. It would be easy to let these statistics overshadow the essential reason Shane & Shane has come so far in the first place. “The ministry of Shane & Shane is to just tell people about Jesus,” explains Shane Barnard with his characteristic Texan candor.

Among the most devotionally focused singer/songwriters of this generation, for Shane Barnard and Shane Everett, it all comes back to the creative source. “We always have a tendency to bring the scriptures into our songs,” Barnard explains. “It happens naturally for us. It’s not like we have a game plan, but we’ve always spent a lot of time in the Word of God. The Word of God is just so good - if you don’t mess with it - it’s hard to mess it up. I think this album, probably more than any other album we’ve done, is the Word of God set to music.”


Placing this musical inspiration into a context that their audience can embrace is a skill that both Shane Everett and Shane Barnard have learned to do at an exceptionally high level. The Shanes see it as a two-part process consisting of both craft and inspiration. Sometimes, they admit, putting the two parts of that process together can take a long, long time.

To find out more about Shane & Shane check out www.shaneandshane.com

To follow Shane & Shane on Twitter: @shaneandshane

We’d like to thank Shane Barnard for answering some of our burning questions. A very special thank you to Mandy Parsons of Savvy Media Solutions for setting up the interview for us.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 10:03 AM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Friday, Oct 30, 2009

Interview: Abandon Kansas

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and the guys from Gotee Records band, Abandon Kansas. In our interview, the guys talk about the difference between being an indie act and being a signed to a label, who’s the biggest troublemaker in the band, some things they’re into, and how they got together as a band.

Listen up. Listen in.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: If you ask Jeremy Spring, frontman for the quartet Abandon Kansas, what it is that motivates he and his band, you may be shocked at the answer. And in the answer to this question lies the very thing that sets his band apart from the endless parade of fame-seekers in this industry:

“As far as long term goals, none of us have any desire to be rich and famous. If we can keep connecting with people through music then we'll be content. There are way too many bands out there already so we're trying to make what we do a little bigger than music.” And deliver something larger than just music is exactly what they do on their debut release from Gotee Records, the Weʼre All Going Somewhere EP. With fearless hearts, ingenious songwriting, and poignant wit, Spring and company shine like supernovas among fading stars. This is indie pop/rock that will surprise you with its candor and cause you to contemplate the deepest recesses of your heart.

Consider the track “The Harder They Fall,” for starters. If Abandon Kansas were just simply seeking to ingrain a melody in your head while simultaneously appeasing the music elitist in you, this song would more than achieve their goals. A bed of tasteful, yet compelling instrumentation snaps you to attention, as you say to yourself these boys can play. Then, Springʼs vocal turns attention to attraction with obvious charisma and charm. As verse ebbs to chorus the energy swells and the deal is sealed, as you sing There is no one left who isn't better than the rest. I need to hear you say that I'm the best. You are officially charmed, hook, line and sinker. You are pulled into the song with breakneck speed, traveling down the rabbit hole to an unknown destination. But as you submit to the hypnotic pulse of the song, a question pops into your brain: Where is Abandon Kansas taking me?

“We donʼt just write songs about love or breakups, or the clicheʼ things that you hear over and over again. We try to write about the deeper places of our hearts, asking questions of the listener, rather than just giving answers. If we can cause someone, when the music is finished, to contemplate their life, their motivation, and their soul, then we have done our jobs. We canʼt complete the journey for the listener, but we can open the door.”
The band linked up with producer Mark Lee Townsend (Relient K, House of Heroes) for what promises to be a highlight in his already amazing resumeʼ. Weʼre All Going Somewhere comes with a full chamber; this is six shots, not just a couple rounds. Yet, if one were to focus on key tracks, it would have to include “I Wonder If Itʼs Me,” a driving, dancy, yet contemplative number that confronts the “grass is greener” mentality that is so pervasive in our culture. And “Months and Years,” another standout among standouts, is an uplifting exercise in perseverance, complete with a chorus that could become the rallying cry of a generation of lost souls seeking a greater purpose.

Perhaps the greatest triumph of all here is the lyrical potency of Jeremy Spring. Only a truly inspired mind could conjure up lines such as these: We spend our lives tip toeing carefully just to arrive at our death safely...We all want what we deserve, unless it's going to hurt. And while he excels in providing sobering thoughts, Spring provides just as many euphoric moments as well: Close your eyes, then we'll start to see. Shut them tight, now we can believe. It's taken me so long to find out where you are. You live in me. Few have the power to shape the listenerʼs emotions with words, but here you will find one who can do just that, and Abandon Kansas will leave you singing (as well as thinking) long after the songs end.

Amidst all this depth, it would be hard to imagine a band that who can also bring one of the most energetic and spirited live shows around, yet Abandon Kansas brings just that. Spring explains: “Our live show is a lot more intense than the music suggests. We love to dance and we love to communicate our music with the audience whether they know our music or not. Our guitar player Brad is known for his Michael Jackson-esque dancing and it's always an entertaining show. We also never make a set list so we can vibe off the audience as to which direction we should take the show.”

An exhaustive touring schedule and work ethic has built a steady, resolute following. If you can believe it, the band played 200 shows in 2008, and is on pace to do even more in 2009. One heart at a time, one city at a time, day after day, the band adds to their fast-growing following. With such a schedule, itʼs little wonder that the industry at large is beginning to pay close attention.
In the end, Abandon Kansas succeeds where so many fail because of their hearts as a unit, their commitment to a unique vision, and most of all because of their one-of-a-kind voice. We are all going somewhere. And Abandon Kansas is taking us there. Or at least they are pointing us to the door...

“If people remember anything from our concerts I hope it's not the band name and the crazy dance moves. I hope that long after our T-shirts have been given away to thrift stores and our CDs have been lost, people will remember having been drawn to something and someone much more important than music.”

To find out more about Abandon Kansas check out www.myspace.com/abandonkansas


To follow Abandon Kansas on Twitter: @AbandonKansas

We’d like to thank the guys from Abandon Kansas for answering some of our burning questions. A very special thank you to Sarah Freeman for setting up the interview for us.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 5:54 PM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Tuesday, Oct 27, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Independent worship artist Blake Bollinger

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and independent recording artist Blake Bollinger. In our interview, Blake talks about how Dino influnced his love for music,” his new album the “Blake Bollinger EP,” the story behind several of the albums tracks, and his thoughts on pirating music and movies.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Blake Bollinger is a worship leader/recording artist who recently moved to Nashville, TN. Over the years, Blake has lead worship at hundreds of camps, retreats, conferences and church services. After several years serving on the staff at 2nd Baptist Church in Houston, TX, Blake felt God calling him back to full-time traveling ministry.

From an early age, Blake was mesmerized by the glowing lights of soundboards and recording gear. Like many musicians, his first recordings were made between two tape decks with a Radio Shack microphone in a back bedroom. While most of his friends were buying clothes and video games, Blake spent every cent on recording gear and musical instruments. This hobby would prove useful as his high school and college band, Destination Known, would go on to record and release 5 albums with total sales topping 10,000 units.

In April 2009, Blake released a self-titled EP, and he is excited about sharing his "lifelong collection of songs" with the world on his spring and summer tours.

 Part musician, part recording engineer, part producer, part __________ . Get to know the music, passion, and artistry that is Blake Bollinger.

To find out more about Blake Bollinger check out www.myspace.com/blakebollinger

To follow Blake Bollinger on Twitter: @blakebollinger

We’d like to thank Blake Bollinger for answering some of our burning questions. A very special thank you to Leann Callaway for setting up the interview for us.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 12:33 PM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Sunday, Oct 25, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Independent worship artist Jeff Johnson

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and independent worship artist Jeff Johnson. Jeff talks about his new album “Amazed,” life on the road, leading worship for multiple generations, and how he deals with criticism.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: The Jeff Johnson Band is a talented group of guys who love music. More than that, they love the Lord and are eager to glorify Him with those they lead in worship. Believing that worship is a lifestyle and not just a category of music, Jeff and his band desire to facilitate an environment of intimate and true worship.

Since 2004, Jeff has been traveling the country doing this. From a wide variety of concerts, college and youth events, to summer camps, the band has partnered with hundreds of ministries to lead them in authentic worship. The band currently leads worship weekly at Fellowship Bible Church in Dallas, TX and for Breakaway Ministries at Texas A&M (a weekly college bible study with thousands of students) in College Station, TX.

In 2007, the band released their 2nd album Glorious Day. An original track on the record entitled "Ruin Me" began gaining success on national radio, bringing exposure to the band and their gifted songwriting. The band has just released 4 new original songs this summer on their summer EP entitled Amazed. Jeff continues to write and create new music that will assist him in what he does. His passions continue to be meeting new people as they travel on the road, facilitating authentic worship encounters, and watching lives be changed forever through the power of Jesus Christ.

To find out more about Steven James check out www.jeffjohnsonband.org

To follow Jeff Johnson on Twitter: @jeffjohnsonband

We’d like to thank Jeff Johnson for answering some of our burning questions. A very special thank you to Leann Callaway for setting up the interview for us.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 11:54 PM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Monday, Oct 19, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Jason Dunn, lead singer of Hawk Nelson

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and Jason Dunn, lead singer of Hawk Nelson. In our interview, Jason talks about the new album “Live Life Loud,” beating up old people, sharing a Twitter name, and balancing life on the road with a new marriage.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION:

Hawk Nelson has certainly made a lot of positive noise since first joining together in Ontario. The quartet was named Favorite New Artist by the readers of CCM magazine in 2004, won a GMA Canada Covenant Award for its second album in 2006, and earned a GRAMMY nomination in 2008. And like all good students of life, Biro and his band mates Jason Dunn (vocals), Jonathan Steingard (guitar), and Justin Benner (drums) have not stopped learning or
growing. Live Life Loud strikes a wiser balance than ever between the group’s two core strengths: kicking out amped up jams and often bringing social and spiritual depth to them.

To find out more about Hawk Nelson check out www.hawknelson.com

To follow Jason Dunn on Twitter: @hawkdunn

We’d like to thank Jason Dunn for answering some of our burning questions. A very special thank you to Lori Isaacs for setting up the interview for us.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 10:36 PM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Monday, Oct 05, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Tracey Bateman, author of 'Thirsty'

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and Tracey Bateman, author of ‘Thirsty.’ In our interview, Tracey talks about her new book, switching from writing chic-lit to vampire stories, the nature of addiction, and trying to get her kids to read her work.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Tracey Bateman published her first novel in 2000 and has been busy ever since. She became a member of American Christian Fiction Writers in the early months of its inception in 2000 and currently serves as president. She lives with her husband and four children in Lebanon, Missouri.

We’d like to thank Tracey Bateman for answering some of our burning questions. A very special thank you to Ashley Boyer of Waterbrook Press for setting up the interview for us.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 8:56 PM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Sunday, Oct 04, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Cross Movement Records hip-hop recording artist, R-Swift

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and Cross Movement Records hip-hop artist, R-Swift. In our interview, R. Swift talks about his new album “Anthem,” theological rap vs. socially-conscious rap, the loss of his son, and the fallout from CMR’s “Open Letter” and the restoration of Ambassador.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: R-Swift is a Christian hip-hop artist signed to Cross Movement Records. His new album, “Anthem” drops on Tuesday, October 6th.

To find out more about R-Swift check out www.myspace.com/rswift81

To follow R-Swift on Twitter: @rswift215

We’d like to thank R-Swift for answering some of our burning questions. A very special thank you to Melody Foat of the Melissa Foat Agency for setting up the interview for us.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 10:40 PM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Friday, Oct 02, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Hip-Hop recording artist, Applejaxx

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and hip-hop recording artist Applejaxx. Applejaxx talks about his new album “Back 2 The Future,” developing a personality for differing situations, the growing divide within holy hip hop, and the controversy surrounding the coming out of his friend, gospel recording artist Tonex.

Listen up. Listen in.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Applejaxx serves you music like a full course meal from mom dukes. This North Carolina-based emcee focuses on a diverse presentation of artistry and innovation. Applejaxx can give you commercial jams, underground lyricism and laid back joints without compromising the art form. In an industry that has forgotten quality lyrics in music, Applejaxx is now about to feed the world a form of hip hop that will spark a movement.

Born into a musical family, Apple’s entire family influenced his musical development. In a family of amazing singers, mcs, musicians and producers, Applejaxx was groomed for success and now believes that it’s his time to shine. Growing up, his musical influences ranged from hip hop to rock.

In 1999 Applejaxx happened to catch a performance by Grammy nominated and six time Stellar Award winner, Tonex (Jive) and west coast rap group Camp 8. That one gig provided all the motivation that Applejaxx needed to spark his hip hop journey. It was time for the jaxx to start producing rhymes for the fellas to feel and music for girls to move to.

A student of the art form and the industry, Applejaxx graduated from Campbell University in North Carolina in 2004 with a degree in Business Administration. At CU Apple took the stage where ever he could, performing at clubs, in plays, talent shows and any other spot with a mic and a friendly sound man. Applejaxx has shared the stage with artist such as Tonex, The Souljahz, Pettidee, Grits, MOC, and Glue. Recent appearances of note include a nationally televised performance at the MGM Grand with Tonex and the 2005 Pass The Mic Urban Music Showcase in Nashville, Tennessee.

To find out more about Applejaxx check out www.applejaxxmusic.com

To follow Applejaxx on Twitter: @FADACY

We’d like to thank Applejaxx for answering some of our burning questions.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 12:01 AM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Thursday, Oct 01, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Rob Stennett, author of "The End Is Now"

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and Rob Stennett, author of ‘The End Is Now.’ In our interview Rob talks about his emergency appendectomy, how his new book is different from ‘The Almost True Story of Ryan Fisher,’ why he chooses to write satire, and his thoughts about people’s fascination with the end times.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Rob Stennett is the author of 'The Almost True Story of Ryan Fisher' and 'The End Is Now,' an award-winning screenwriter, a produced playwright, and a film and theater director. He lives in Colorado.

To find out more about Rob Stennett check out http://robstennett.blogspot.com/

To follow Rob Stennett on Twitter: @robstennett

We’d like to thank Rob Stennet for answering some of our burning questions.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 9:14 PM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Wednesday, Sep 30, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Steven James, author of "The Knight"

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and Steven James, author of ‘The Pawn,’ ‘The Rook,’ and ‘The Knight.’ In our interview Steven talks about his book series, how he made the jump from non-fiction to fiction, researching for his novel, and whether he thinks he could get away with murder.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Steven James is one of the nation’s most innovative storytellers.



Since developing his skill as a performer at East Tennessee State University (MA in Storytelling), he has spoken more than 1,500 times throughout North America and has taught creative storytelling and writing in South Africa, Ukraine, Canada, Kazakhstan and India.



Best known for his hilarious and heartwarming stories and masterful use of audience involvement, listeners around the world have been inspired by his poignant and powerful performances.



But Steven doesn’t just tell stories. He creates them.

As one of the most versatile authors in the country, Steven has penned more than 25 books of both award-winning fiction and nonfiction including fantasy, inspiration, poetry, short stories, scripts, a nine-book storytelling library of resources for educators, and the bestselling psychological thrillers The Pawn and The Rook.



Sharing his unique blend of comedy, drama, and inspirational storytelling, Steven James is in constant demand as a family entertainer, keynote speaker, and inspirational seminar leader.

To find out more about Steven James check out www.stevenjames.net

To find out more about ‘The Bowers Files’ books check out www.patrickbowers.com

We’d like to thank Steven James for answering some of our burning questions. A very special thank you to Claudia Marsh of Revell Publishing for setting up the interview for us.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 10:10 PM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Sunday, Sep 20, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Avalon

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and Sparrow recording artists Jeremi and Amy Richardson of Avalon. In our interview, Jeremi and Amy talk about the new project “Reborn,” the story behind several of the album’s tracks, working with Ian Eskelin, and dealing with celebrity.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Avalon formed in 1996, setting a high standard in contemporary Christian music. Reviewing its 2006 project Faith: A Hymns Collection, All Music Guide noted “the vocal efficiency and personalized stylings that place Avalon among the elite singing groups in contemporary Christian circles.” To date, the quartet has sold more than three million albums, charted 20 No. 1 singles, and won an American Music Award plus numerous Dove Awards such as the 1999 Pop/Contemporary Song of the Year for “Testify to Love.” That song, a listener favorite, has also been specially re-recorded for Another Time, Another Place. And when the next generation of Christian performers look back at the artists who influenced their path, perhaps even paying tribute to them on record, look for the name Avalon.

To find out more about Avalon check out www.avalonlive.com

To follow Avalon on Twitter: @AvalonTheGroup

We’d like to thank Jeremi and Amy for answering some of our burning questions. A very special thank you to Staci Vining of Vining Media Relations for setting up the interview for us.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 3:14 PM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Sunday, Sep 20, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Everyday Process

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and Cross Movement recording artists Iz-Real and Mac the Doulos of Everyday Process. In our interview, Iz and Mac talk about their new project “Outtadisworld,” quoting C.S. Lewis, being “in” the world but not “of” the world, and why they decided not to include guests artists on the new project.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Everyday Process (Mac the doulos and Iz-real) is on a mission. That mission is to use hip-hop as a means to an end, and that end being impacting people with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Especially those that normally wouldn’t set foot in a spiritual setting like church. "Music is just a vehicle for us. It's simple; hip-hop is a genre of music with mass appeal. It's another way to move a vital message to the masses. We see it as an extremely effective method. This music draws so much attention and reaches so many ears. Agendas and propaganda can be pushed through it. So we use it as a platform to say what we need to say because it's definitely what people need to hear. This is bigger than music. We want to put people on to the truth. And not just general truth, but rather the gospel of Jesus Christ."

Through the influence of this music medium, they strive to enlighten the Christian and non-Christian alike, particularly those that can relate and are sometimes deeply engulfed in the hip-hop culture; showing others that they don't have to retreat from their own culture, but rather that Christ is relevant in their culture as well, and God desires us to reach those that we can really relate to. Yes, even in hip hop culture.

Everyday Process considers themselves God's ambassadors and His representatives to these people (II Cor. 5:20). Everyday Process understands their generation and culture. Having been themselves immersed in the culture, they understand that for many that are into hip-hop, it is often a way of life. They feel a sense of urgency to get this vital message out. A no-compromise message using hip-hop's own magnetism to spread the truth everywhere. In churches, in the streets and on corners, or where ever it needs to go.

To find out more about Everyday Process check out www.everydayprocess.com

To follow Everyday Process on Twitter: @everydayprocess

We’d like to thank Iz-Real and Mac the Doulos for answering some of our burning questions. A very special thank you to Melody Foat of the Melissa Foat Agency for setting up the interview for us.

Posted by Profess Podcast at 1:32 PM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Wednesday, Sep 09, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Trevor McNevan, lead singer of Thousand Foot Krutch

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and Trevor McNevan, lead singer of Thousand Foot Krutch. In our interview, Trevor talks about his love for G.I. Joe and He-Man, the band’s new project “Welcome to the Masquerade,” working within the Christian and mainstream markets, and dealing with criticism as an artist.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Trevor McNevan is the lead singer/songwriter of Thousand Foot Krutch. He also performs in pop punk side project FM Static with Steve Augustine (the third Thousand Foot Krutch drummer), and he used the FM Static song "Moment Of Truth", to propose to his wife.

His first band, Oddball, included former Thousand Foot Krutch members Dave Smith (guitar) and Tim Baxter (bass), as well as Three Days Grace drummer Neil Sanderson. Oddball released the 27-song record Shutterbug, in 1995, featuring half hip-hop and half rock songs.

To find out more about Thousand Foot Krutch check out www.thousandfootkrutch.com

To follow Thousand Foot Krutch on Twitter: @OfficialTFK

We’d like to thank Trevor McNevan for answering some of our burning questions. A very special thank you to Lori Isaacs of Overture Media for setting up the interview for us.

Song Clips:
"Fire It Up"
"Watching Over Me"
"Scream"

Posted by Profess Podcast at 9:15 AM |  MAKE A COMMENT  

Tuesday, Sep 08, 2009

Profess Interview Series: Sparrow recording artist Bethany Dillon

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This edition of the Profess Interview Series brings to you an exclusive conversation between C.E. Moore and Sparrow recording artist Bethany Dillon. In our interview, Bethany talks about her new album “Stop & Listen,” being a celebrity while also being an introvert, her recent trip to Africa, and Twittering about food.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: From her recording debut at age 14, Bethany Dillon was one of those rare young singer/songwriters who did not fit the status quo. Her songs possessed a lyrical depth that belied her age. Her carriage, sense of composure and way of looking at the world revealed a certain maturity, disarming for one so young.

So it almost seems a given, seven years later, that 21-year-old Bethany Dillon—now married and living in Dallas with her husband, Shane Barnard (Shane & Shane)—would be officially grown up.

That she has something even more complete and compelling to say is a given, too. Major life moments have a way of doing that to anyone.

“The last year has been the sweetest year of my 21...” Bethany says, “There are so many layers to it, and I don’t always feel like a grown up, but it’s been a really sweet time of learning. I can see the grace of God in it. So much has come to the surface.”

Stop & Listen, Bethany’s fourth release on Sparrow Records, reveals a young woman coming to terms with God’s grace in a new season of becoming.

To find out more about Bethany Dillon check out http://bethanydillon.sparrowrecords.com/

To follow Bethany Dillon on Twitter: @Bethany Dillon

We’d like to thank Bethany Dillon for answering some of our burning questions. A very special thank you to Brook Elder of The M Collective for setting up the interview for us.

Song Clips:
"Get Up & Walk"
"Stop & Listen"
"Everyone to Know (Acoustic)"

Posted by Profess Podcast at 9:38 PM |  MAKE A COMMENT