10 Questions with ... Chris McClarney

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

Chris McClarney doesn't currently have a single out to radio, but as a songwriter of several big worship songs, including the No. 1 smash "Your Love Never Fails," he's not unfamiliar with his work receiving air time. Having just released his second live album, Breakthrough, and returned from a tour with Jesus Culture, the Nashville-based worship leader is set to be part of a one-night event in Franklin, TN called VOICES: A Night of Humor & Song, along with artists Lauren Daigle, Hollyn and Cody Carnes on August 2nd.

1. What has your career path as a musician looked like?

It started in church when I was really young. Maybe 14 years old. Back then, there wasn't a worship "industry" or "celebrity" worship leaders. So my ultimate goal was just to lead worship at my church, which is what I still do now. That's my real passion. The rest is just the whipped cream on top. That's not to say that I don't love the toppings (because of course I enjoy it), but what motivates me is local church worship.

2. At what point was it clear to you that you were called to pursue a career as an artist?

I still don't consider myself an "artist." I mean, I understand that technically I am one; I'm just not very good at being artist-y. I'm more practical than artsy. I just want to write and sing songs that meet people where they're at and give them hope. I'm not trying to blow their minds with my creative prowess.

3. Was it always your intention as an artist to create songs that lean toward worship-leading, rather than write more lifestyle-based, singer-songwriter pop songs? Can artists do both?

Yes and no. I mean, I've written songs about everything. Love songs, angry songs, goofy songs, sad songs. I guess I'm just most passionate about seeing people sing praise and enter into true worship. But if I weren't doing this, I'd definitely consider a Weird Al-type career path. I love writing stupid songs!

4. Your latest album "Breakthrough" is touted as a "genuine worship experience." These aren't your words, but how do you think makes worship music genuine?

I don't know. I guess I'm just a regular guy and I'm actually worshipping with my music. I'm also a big fan of leaving some mistakes in there. I like mistakes. They feel real.

5. Who is the intended audience for this new album?

The church first and foremost is the intended audience, but specifically anyone who's in need of a little hope. A few of these new songs speak directly at the issue of fear and the truth that God's love overcomes it.

6. What was the reason for your decision to record a live album instead of recording the songs in a studio?

I love the crowd! They add so much energy and excitement! Also... I'm in love with the imperfections you end up with in a live setting. And also the immediate feedback of knowing if a song is working or not.

7. When you consider the personal breakthroughs in your life, which ones come to mind most prominently?

Most of the time I'm my own worst enemy. In hindsight a lot of the "breakthroughs" I've experienced were me realizing that I needed to change. I needed to grow. I needed to mature. Then there are the times when you feel like there's no hope. Sickness, death, pain, suffering, finances, etc. and you find yourself needing a real touch from God. A breakthrough of the supernatural.

8. Say you have an opportunity to play one song from "Breakthrough" to a group of world leaders. Which song from the album would you choose?

Gosh. I don't know. Does it have to be one of the songs off my record, or can I play "What A Beautiful Name"? Honestly... there are better songs to play if you only get one shot. But I guess if I had to pick one it'd be "Hallelujah For The Cross," because I feel like it's the easiest to catch on the first try.

9. What was the hardest song on the album to complete?

The songs were written, and rewritten, and written again. The biggest of the rewrites was "Crazy Love." I wanted to put a different word in other than [the word] "crazy.' I was afraid people wouldn't understand what I was trying to say. Eventually I decided, "You know what? It is crazy. The fact that the all-powerful Creator of the universe came down and gave His own life for me makes zero sense to my human mind."

10. Is it a challenge for an artist who leads worship to masses of people to not cross-over/resort into an entertainer mode?

I'm sure for some it is a challenge; but again, I'm just a regular worship leader. I'm not cool enough to perform anyway.