Finding Commonality

Q: As an openly Christian performer, do you feel a responsibility toward the Christian community?

A: I do feel a huge responsibility for young people out there who might be dealing with the same issues. When I was younger, there were not that many people around, especially males, that were positive Christian role models. I want kids to see someone like me and think, "Hey, I can rock out to Pearl Jam and be a regular person and still be Christian."

Q: Does it bother you that people are so obsessed with labels? Would you rather known as a Christian singer or simply a singer?

A: You know, it's funny, because labels can be so misleading. I do get a little annoyed sometimes, when I read "Christian" in front of my job description, as though that makes a difference musically. I'm talking about emotions and relationships in my songs, and everybody has those, and everyone can relate. Sure, there's some people who may be uncomfortable and might not want to see me because they think, "Oh, he'll only talk about Christian things!" Then there are others who might come to see me because they think I'm only going to talk about Christian things. I'm not here to tell anyone to be Christian. I want you to accept me the way I accept you. That's all.

If you're from the area &/or read the PNJ you may recognize the above. I took it from an interview w/a local artist that is set to perform here next week. You may notice something strangely amiss tho, especially if you're really intuitive.

This is the way that I read the article & pictured it in my mind...not how it actually went. The point of contention I have is the same when looking for acceptence beyond labels regardless of the point of view. I hope that you're seated.

This ran friday & was entitled 'NO LABELS ALLOWED'. It's not about a Christian artist but a gay 1 getting ready to perform @ Come Out Pensacola! Just insert the original word gay everywhere that you see the word Christian in the above.

Sound all that different to you?

Should it?