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10 Questions with ... Chris and Conrad
March 9, 2009
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NAME:Chris and ConradTITLE:Band
Line-up:
Chris Kuti
Conrad JohnsonLabel:
VSR Music Group / EMI CMGDiscography:
Chris and Conrad (2009)1) Can you give us a brief recap on your musical journey and how you found yourself signing with VSR Music Group?
We both grew up involved in music from young ages, which led us on a path to begin solo careers before we even knew each other. It was through meeting our current management that we were brought together just to write. These writing sessions led to a series of songs that really made us feel like we'd be better together than apart in our careers--even more, as friends. From that point on we were quickly blessed with numerous opportunities with labels. After taking our time and praying through decisions, none felt more like home than VSR Music Group.
2) Is there a singular message that you hope to convey on the debut album?
Along with the main message that we are all broken people in need of a savior, we want to encourage every believer to live out who they are in Christ, while holding onto the truth that he always was, is and will be there for you.
3) What's the story behind recording the first radio single "Lead Me to the Cross"?
In our personal walks with God, the Lord has been constantly showing us how we as Christians tend to live bound to the very things that Christ saved us from. As we struggled with this truth and wrote songs for the record, we realized that there were a lot of lyrics that dealt with this very tension. It was as if there was a truth still missing, that we couldn't find the words for. It was through leading worship at a number of camps this past summer that God used the lyrics of "Lead Me to the Cross" to remind us to daily "rid me of myself." This is the only way for each believer to live out the purpose they've been made for. It was at that point we felt there was nothing more to be said about this struggle. We simply wanted to agree with the very prayer that is found within the song. It is a song that encourages us in our relationships with Christ each and every time we play it live and is a natural addition to the overall theme of the record.
4) What is your favorite song on the record?
Oh man, this is like asking a parent which one of their children is their favorite. But since you asked, it's definitely "You're the One." We've been doing the song live for quite sometime now but it never gets old to hear or play.
5) To Chris: What was your first thought when you heard that "We Want the World to Hear" would be on Big Daddy Weave's album?
My first thought was to check the calendar and make sure it wasn't April 1. As a musician and songwriter, you look forward to moments like that, so I didn't want to get caught in another one of Mike's little pranks. But when I found out he was serious, I was shocked because I know how picky Mike Weaver is as a songwriter (picky is a good thing here). He doesn't let lyrics slide and he's great at what he does. So having him ask me if him and the guys could put one of my songs on their record was shocking. Looking back at it now, I think God used that experience as a catalyst to cause me to press forward and really try to perfect my craft as a songwriter and a musician.
6) Do you have a mentor in songwriting?
Without a doubt Clint Lagerberg (Rascal Flatts, Mandisa, Nichole Nordeman, Point of Grace) is our songwriting mentor. He was the first co-writing appointment that we had in Nashville and right from the beginning he just spoke so much wisdom into our lives, both professionally and personally. Plus it helps that every time we hang, we have a great time and come up with some huge tunes.
When it comes to guys that we look up to collectively, Jon Foreman, Jason Wade, Rob Thomas, Phil Wickham and Leeland Mooring are on the top of our lists.
7) As you were in the studio working on this debut, did you have any "ah-ha" moments when you thought, "Now we have a record - and this is good?
The moment had to be when our friends Greg Hill and Roy Mitchell-Cardenas came to our studio here in Lakeland, FL to play and co-produce seven of the 11 songs. The second they came up with parts and ideas to add to each song, it was like a light clicked in both of our heads, "Now we have a complete record."
8) Which do you enjoy more: the process or the performance?
I know this might seem like we're dodging the question, but we enjoy both equally. Without the preparation and patience that it takes in the studio, there'd be no chance at a great live show. We love the journey of creating new material in the studio and then the energy of sharing those songs with a live audience.
9) If you could have any job outside music, what would it be and why?
Chris has always dreamed about being a professional hockey played for the Detroit Red Wings. Obviously this is more of a dream looking at Chris' physique, or lack there of.." Conrad, without a doubt, would love to be a professional wake-boarder.
10) What music or whose music are you listening to these days?
We have been listening to The Fray's new record like crazy from the day that it released along with Coldplay's "Prospekts March EP," Switchfoot, MuteMath, Phil Wickham, The Daylights and Sara Bareilles.
Bonus Questions
1) Who would be your dream artist to record with (any genre)?
This questions isn't easy because there are so many artists that we look up to, but Bono from U2 would have to be at the top of that list.
2) What is one song you wish you had written?
"I Can Only Imagine"
3) Favorite city to visit?
New York City
4) Favorite or best meal while on the road?
We'll tell you right now that it's definitely not spaghetti. We'll have to fill you in on that story later. All joking aside, sushi is by far the best meal on the road especially Peter's Sushi in Brentwood, TN.
5) Imagine you're stranded on a desert island, what three things would you want with you and why?
Well it depends. Is there free WiFi and 3G cell phone reception? Because neither of us can be apart from our laptops and iPhones very long. That covered, the only other thing we'd need is a Pepsi vending machine (Pepsi for Conrad and Mountain Dew for Chris).
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