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10 Questions with ... Phillips, Craig & Dean
September 21, 2009
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TITLE:Band
Line-up:
Randy Phillips
Shawn Craig
Dan DeanLabel:
INO RecordsDiscography:
Fearless (2009)
Top of My Lungs (2006)
Let the Worshippers Arise (2004)
Let Your Glory Fall (2003)
Let My Words Be Few (2001)
Restoration (1999)
Favorite Songs of All (1998)
Where Strength Begins (1997)
Repeat the Sounding Joy (1996)
Trust (1995)
Lifeline (1993)
Phillips, Craig & Dean (1992)1) What was the mission and/or the message for "Fearless" that you took into the writing room and the studio from the start?
Shawn Craig: As pastors, we were hearing the loud voices of fear. And fear sells. Psychologists tell us that fear is a more powerful motivation than pleasure. There was fear about 401ks becoming 201ks, uncertain economy, depression, job loss, rogue nations. But the people of God are in the world but not of it and because we are citizens of another kingdom, the current circumstances shouldn't drive our attitude. The smaller our view of God, the bigger our fears. The more we see God for who he is, the less we fear.
2) You guys already have numerous songs, albums and tours under your belt. How did you prepare to approach the new album?
Maybe other artists "prepare to approach" but I just don't think like that. The freshness comes from the songs and the producer. We place a lot of responsibility in the hands of the producer once we become convinced that we have the right guy.
3) Tell us real quick about the story behind the chart topping single "Revelation Song." Why did you choose to record it? It's a song that your churches use in worship, yes?
We had been singing this song in our local churches and had actually considered it for the previous project. We decided against it at the time. Then last year we taught it to the Brooklyn Tabernacle choir and sang it with them when we were there one weekend. It was one of those moments when it seemed heaven came down. We went home saying, "We're recording that song. We don't care if it's a single or not. We have to record it."
4) How do you respond to the overwhelming response you and we are seeing to the new record? For example: at these shows in Dallas and Orlando where people are standing in the hall or being turned away at the door. How do you wrap your head around that?
Gratitude. Gratitude. We're a bit surprised, yes. And we are extremely grateful for the opportunity we've been given at this season of our ministry. Some things are bigger than us. Some songs and projects speak the right message at the right time. This may be one of those.
5) Was there a moment when you were in the studio working on "Fearless" that you said, "Ah-ha! Now we have a record!"?
I don't think so. When you're recording, you are so close to the granular aspect that you can't see the end result. It's like studying a grain of sand and missing the beach. That's what it feels like. Then when it's done, you get to enjoy.
6) As a group, what is your favorite song on "Fearless"?
My favorite song is "Revelation Song" right now. That's because there are less personal pronouns in it: I, me, my, mine. It's a song that glorifies the Son of God, maybe makes him shine. And that is what makes it powerful.
7) Who or what inspires you on a regular basis (personally, professionally, spiritually) to keep doing what your doing? Who helps you retain some sanity?
It's what happens at home every week that keeps it fresh. The church at home is generally not impressed with #1 songs, etc. So "real life" has a way of keeping you off the ego trip. Personally, it is the voice of my heavenly Father that I long for and inspires me daily. My time with him is priceless.
8) Any funny, inspiring or interesting stories that you can tell us from your visits to radio stations in past or present days?
None came to mind.
9) Let's take a moment to be less serious: If you could try your hand at any job outside of vocational ministry and music, what would you do?
Trout fishing guide. I'm not good at it but what a job. Escorting people through God's outdoor sanctuary. Going home at night and leaving work on the river.
10) Do you have much time to listen to other artists' music? Whose work is inspiring and encouraging you guys right now?
Variety: tobyMac, One Republic, Michael Buble, Karl Jenkins (orchestral), Kirk Franklin. The melodies of David Foster have always pulled my heartstrings, too. For inspiration, I lean a lot on God's Word and the vast availability of podcasts from Bible teachers like Mark Driscoll and James MacDonald to name two. A lot of reading for me too: commentary of great men like John Stott, Martyn-Lloyd Jones and John Piper.
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