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10 Questions with ... Andy Chrisman
October 16, 2006
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NAME:Andy ChrismanTITLE:Musician/Host of 'Sunday Morning Worship'STATION:KKCM (The Spirit 102.3)MARKET:Tulsa, OK
Brief Career Synopsis:
Label: Shelter Records
Discography: One (2004)1) Can you offer a brief look at your musical journey?
I've always enjoyed singing. My mom put me on stage when I was 4 or 5 to sing for her women's meetings. I toured with TRUTH from 1987-1990. That's where I met the other 4HIM guys and we went on the road as a quartet in August 1990. I didn't record my first solo project until 2004, and I have been a full-time worship pastor since 2001.
2) What's the story behind your new single "Atmosphere"?
I originally wrote the song for my church in Celebration, FL in 2002 and had no intentions of ever letting it go on my solo project. But two years later, after the three straight hurricanes blew through our neighborhood, I felt like the song had a bigger meaning than it did when I originally wrote it. Scott Krippayne, Jamie Kenney and I took a fresh look it and decided it had legs as a radio single.
3) How did you land the hosting job with "Sunday Morning Worship"? Did you ever imagine that you'd be a radio show host?
Actually, my dream was always to be a sportscaster. I've been in and around radio stations, as you might imagine, for nearly 20 years, so I'm familiar with the process and I thought that maybe someday I'd like to have my own show. It's just funny how God puts people in your life to tap into your potential, just as the guys at Spirit 102.3 did.
4) You spent a few years in Florida, working at Celebrate Church. What brought you to Tulsa?
I had a tremendous opportunity to become the worship pastor at Church On The Move. I have always been impressed with the ministry of Pastor Willie George and the great things they've done here. So, I jumped at the chance to move my family out here.
5) How much traveling are you doing for your solo work? Do you miss the road?
I'm ready to stay home and help raise my kids. Lucas is 14 and Kayleigh is 11, and I only have a handful of years to pour into their lives. It's hard to be a hands-on father when you're gone 150 days a year. I'll still go out 20-30 days a year and do solo concerts, but probably not much more than that. My heart is here now with my family and my church.
6) What compels you to write a worship song?
The Psalms say to sing a new song. So, whenever I sit at my piano to worship or to put my services together, I always take time to let my heart and mind are free to create. Honestly, the majority of what I write is just for God; no one else will ever hear it. But every once in a while something will pop out that I know my church needs to hear.
7) What's the message behind the album One?
The message of the song "Believe" forms a foundation for the record and my ministry. Matthew 10:32 says, "So I will acknowledge in front of my Father in heaven that person who acknowledges me in front of others," and this is my way of acknowledging him before men.
8) What person has influenced your ministry/your music the most and how?
Probably Keith Green. I had every LP that he ever made, and I was always in awe of how real it all was, and yet it made sense musically. Here was a guy who had no trouble telling the world what he thought and how much he loved Jesus and was able to put it all in a musical context that was as pop-sounding as anything on radio. His example has influenced me to say what's on my heart and make it sound good at the same time.
9) As a worship pastor, how do you explain the connection between music and worship expression?
Music has always been an emotional response to whatever we're going through. When we're happy, we sing. When we're down, sad songs are our friends. It's the same connection in worship. Joyful songs are good medicine, just as songs of encouragement and strength can be powerful healers for the wounded heart. It's always a great feeling to see my congregation begin to sing and cast off whatever the week has brought them.
10) Imagine life without music as your career; what might you like to do?
I love sports. I never had the size or athleticism to ever be a pro in anything, but I think I would have been a good coach. Actually, that's really what I'm doing now, mentoring young musicians and aspiring worship leaders.
Bonus Questions
1) Who would be a dream artist to record with in any genre?
Richard Page. I was a big Mr. Mister fan and I loved his work on the "Third Matinee" album. He was a big influence on my style and my attitude when I approach a song.
2 ) What is your favorite city to visit?
NYC, Chicago, San Diego, love those cities. Great shopping and restaurants. But maybe Orlando for the golf and the theme parks, and I have lots of good friends there.
3 ) What is your favorite road meal?
Ruby Tuesday's BBQ veggie burger. Tastes great and great for you!
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