Two and a half years. You pour everything into it, can't imagine how you could ever live without it, and yet, in an instant, God gives you an ending you never saw coming. He takes it away, and pulls you away. I had always wondered, what would it be like to see someone else leading the team I had prayed so hard for God to bring? God took care of that as well. When He tells you to leave, you leave. You don't look back.
Does it feel good? No. Is there ever proper closure? No. When you stand up for what is right, what is biblical, there rarely ever is. In many ways, it is easier for me than other worship leaders I imagine. God called me out of my normal life as an economist to do something extraordinary for Him. In an instant, He returned me to that life.
I return to songwriting, playing in odd gigs, and sitting around the house jamming. Just like before. I do not desire to jump back on the train. Everything lasts for a season. I am eternally grateful that God let me have that season. Peace to all. - Ron
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
To worship song writers: write something I can use
The more I've been in my role as a worship leader (2 years now) the more I have tried to branch out and do non-traditional songs from non-traditional authors (traditional being Tomlin, Redman, Hillsong) who everyone has pretty much done to death and then well beyond. The more I branch out the more I realize why these artists are so often the go-to guns on a Sunday morning: they write songs that can actually be done.
My big 6, not so magical, elements for what makes a successful worship song.
1. Make a point. Make the point not be about you but God. Not 5 points, one or 2 at the most.
2. Don't get too clever with the key changes. Sure it makes you an individual, but your job is not to throw the congregation off. Most worship leaders listen to something and think "could my congregation get this on one take?" If not, bye-bye.
3. The main elements HAVE to be able to be played by everyday musicians. Am I saying dumb it down? Not really but maybe. Think of the guitar runs in Salvation is Here or Happy Day. Easy as pie yet totally invigorating.
4. This is related to #3. Effects should be optional to add value only. If the drummer needs to run through an evolving filter to make it work, it ain't happening.
5. Do something unique in the song. A cool but short instrument pattern, a building and evolving bridge, cutouts, fades/builds, stop slams, whatever. Just strumming an acoustic for 4 minutes is boring and has been done to over-death.
6. Now the biggie. Wait for it.... Make it so that most people can actually SING IT!!!!!!! Worship songs are not a test of vocal range (I'm talking to you Planetshakers (who I love)). People can't worship if a doctor needs to be called in to inspect their damaged vocal chords. Oh and most worship leaders don't have the range to sing 2 octaves apart which degrades the song. And none of this goofy cadence stuff, where you cram 3 words into an offbeat, yes Dave Crowder, you are offender numeral uno.
Do those 6 things, and actually write a catchy song, and you may actually write something worthwhile.
If you want me to judge something you've written, contact me through this blog. I am a fair and very honest music critic. Thanks for reading, if anyone actually ever does. - Ron
My big 6, not so magical, elements for what makes a successful worship song.
1. Make a point. Make the point not be about you but God. Not 5 points, one or 2 at the most.
2. Don't get too clever with the key changes. Sure it makes you an individual, but your job is not to throw the congregation off. Most worship leaders listen to something and think "could my congregation get this on one take?" If not, bye-bye.
3. The main elements HAVE to be able to be played by everyday musicians. Am I saying dumb it down? Not really but maybe. Think of the guitar runs in Salvation is Here or Happy Day. Easy as pie yet totally invigorating.
4. This is related to #3. Effects should be optional to add value only. If the drummer needs to run through an evolving filter to make it work, it ain't happening.
5. Do something unique in the song. A cool but short instrument pattern, a building and evolving bridge, cutouts, fades/builds, stop slams, whatever. Just strumming an acoustic for 4 minutes is boring and has been done to over-death.
6. Now the biggie. Wait for it.... Make it so that most people can actually SING IT!!!!!!! Worship songs are not a test of vocal range (I'm talking to you Planetshakers (who I love)). People can't worship if a doctor needs to be called in to inspect their damaged vocal chords. Oh and most worship leaders don't have the range to sing 2 octaves apart which degrades the song. And none of this goofy cadence stuff, where you cram 3 words into an offbeat, yes Dave Crowder, you are offender numeral uno.
Do those 6 things, and actually write a catchy song, and you may actually write something worthwhile.
If you want me to judge something you've written, contact me through this blog. I am a fair and very honest music critic. Thanks for reading, if anyone actually ever does. - Ron
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Worship Leading and Self Promotion: Is it Right?
When it comes to worship leading I can say that I have a "no agenda, agenda". I am not fulfilling some regular gig musician wannabe void and I am not out to further myself. I lead worship for 2 reasons. God gave me the gift and my church asked me. What other reasons are there?
With that established, I wanted to address something I see in a number of contemporary Christian circles/churches. That is the "worship leader as a means of promoting my song writing ability" mentality. Having hit a number of blogs and other types of worship sites, I typically see some level of product placement or other references to self-made music musicians often do in public places as a soft sell of their own material. Believe me, I know about this because I do it in my other projects that are not related to worship music!
It usually goes like this:
"I was bothered by the lighting in my church and wanted to relay my thoughts on lighting. Here at We're God's Rocking House church, we take a subtle approach. Like last week when we were playing "God Rocks" off of our new cd (available at most online stores and from the address bar on the right)..."
You get the point.
Now, is this inherently wrong? Not really. God didn't anoint one song-writer's ability to copy a Psalm and put music to it more than another and I'm sure a sincere rendition of any words recognizing the majesty of our Father is all he is looking for. But, if these songs are being written for self-profit or promotion then yes, I do think the intention can cross lines. Churches should not be platforms for frustrated musicians. Like Myspace or other internet sites that let generally untalented people post generally untalented music, just because the outlet is there, doesn't mean it needs to be used. All worship leaders should look within and ask themselves "Do I lead worship as an act of obedience and use of my gifting in the body as illustrated in I Cor. 12?" or are there other motivations?
I encourage all worship leaders who want to write music to do so outside of their own church and once it gains acceptance elsewhere, bring it into your own body. If you're that good, this shouldn't be an issue.
With that established, I wanted to address something I see in a number of contemporary Christian circles/churches. That is the "worship leader as a means of promoting my song writing ability" mentality. Having hit a number of blogs and other types of worship sites, I typically see some level of product placement or other references to self-made music musicians often do in public places as a soft sell of their own material. Believe me, I know about this because I do it in my other projects that are not related to worship music!
It usually goes like this:
"I was bothered by the lighting in my church and wanted to relay my thoughts on lighting. Here at We're God's Rocking House church, we take a subtle approach. Like last week when we were playing "God Rocks" off of our new cd (available at most online stores and from the address bar on the right)..."
You get the point.
Now, is this inherently wrong? Not really. God didn't anoint one song-writer's ability to copy a Psalm and put music to it more than another and I'm sure a sincere rendition of any words recognizing the majesty of our Father is all he is looking for. But, if these songs are being written for self-profit or promotion then yes, I do think the intention can cross lines. Churches should not be platforms for frustrated musicians. Like Myspace or other internet sites that let generally untalented people post generally untalented music, just because the outlet is there, doesn't mean it needs to be used. All worship leaders should look within and ask themselves "Do I lead worship as an act of obedience and use of my gifting in the body as illustrated in I Cor. 12?" or are there other motivations?
I encourage all worship leaders who want to write music to do so outside of their own church and once it gains acceptance elsewhere, bring it into your own body. If you're that good, this shouldn't be an issue.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Females leading songs and feminization in worship music
I started this blog for the primary purpose of writing out the deepest thoughts in my head. No matter how risky or controversial they may be. I seriously figured no one would ever read it anyway so what's there to be afraid of. With that background I want to address an issue that really challenges me every week. I am blessed with some very talented female singers and their ability far exceeds my own. The problem is finding the proper songs for them to lead. So many, and I mean many, upbeat praise songs were written by men and demand a wide male range. Sometimes, something gets lost in translation when they are led by a female. What is typically lost is the power and intensity of the words.
Slower worship songs tend to work better but songs like "Stronger" or "The Stand" feel empty and almost lose their meaning to me. So, naturally, like most worship leaders, you start to bring forth songs that were led by females when recorded. This is where I'm going to turn the intensity up in this post. As a man, many of those songs are either super lame, or almost effeminate in their phrasing and chording. I've often thought, while listening to some of these songs, that what real man would ever say these words? My solution for those songs has been to let them only be featured as a special song but by doing that you remain trapped in the "what do I have them lead?!?" loop.
It seems appropriate now that I should commend Brooke (used to be Fraser got married new name insert here) from Hillsong for the tremendous writing she has done. Brooke's songs transcend female feelings, focus on scripture, and include surreal and dreamy musical parts for the musicians. I'd call them 'perfect'. The worship world desperately needs more Brookes. I feel for the Christian female music artist. They know that women will be buying probably 90% of their releases so catering to them makes business sense. Unfortunately, you are left with cds full of songs that don't translate into the worship platform.
If you are a female worship music writer, let me offer these 2 words of advice: Scripture and God. If you get that, all will fall into place.
Slower worship songs tend to work better but songs like "Stronger" or "The Stand" feel empty and almost lose their meaning to me. So, naturally, like most worship leaders, you start to bring forth songs that were led by females when recorded. This is where I'm going to turn the intensity up in this post. As a man, many of those songs are either super lame, or almost effeminate in their phrasing and chording. I've often thought, while listening to some of these songs, that what real man would ever say these words? My solution for those songs has been to let them only be featured as a special song but by doing that you remain trapped in the "what do I have them lead?!?" loop.
It seems appropriate now that I should commend Brooke (used to be Fraser got married new name insert here) from Hillsong for the tremendous writing she has done. Brooke's songs transcend female feelings, focus on scripture, and include surreal and dreamy musical parts for the musicians. I'd call them 'perfect'. The worship world desperately needs more Brookes. I feel for the Christian female music artist. They know that women will be buying probably 90% of their releases so catering to them makes business sense. Unfortunately, you are left with cds full of songs that don't translate into the worship platform.
If you are a female worship music writer, let me offer these 2 words of advice: Scripture and God. If you get that, all will fall into place.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Age and the Worship Leader
I'm 41. That is something that has really consumed my mind lately. Am I going through a mid-life crisis looking back with regrets? NO. What has consumed my mind is that age seems to be part of the Worship Leader cliche. In contemporary churches, songs are supposed to be led by some 20'ish year old with the hip hair styles and proper uniform (random corroding t-shirt and washed out jeans).
When one enters 40, are they defacto 'not relevant'? When is one supposed to step aside? I thank God that with my age has not come the obvious signs of aging except for the graying of the hairs on the side of my head, gifts given to me by my 3 children. I can pull off the look (at least I think I can). Maybe my worship team would tell you otherwise. Truth be told, there is no way that I had the maturity to handle being a worship leader until now. God had perfect timing in putting me in this position. But, you can't help but ask yourself, "was I put in this position for me, or to help identify and raise up the next leader?"
Looking into God's word reveals people of all ages being used in critical times. Paul was no young chap, neither was Abraham. Jesus was in his 30s before God chose to bring about the series of events which would reveal the reason why he sent his Son. David was young when his journey started but he also made a lot of stupid mistakes in his younger days that he seemed to learn from with age. So, I guess I gain comfort from this.
I am not a Braveheart-speech type of individual. I am not going to stand on a mountaintop and dare all young challengers to just try and knock me off. I sense that just as God brought me into this position, he will take me out, and there will be peace about it.
Need to stop thinking about this...
When one enters 40, are they defacto 'not relevant'? When is one supposed to step aside? I thank God that with my age has not come the obvious signs of aging except for the graying of the hairs on the side of my head, gifts given to me by my 3 children. I can pull off the look (at least I think I can). Maybe my worship team would tell you otherwise. Truth be told, there is no way that I had the maturity to handle being a worship leader until now. God had perfect timing in putting me in this position. But, you can't help but ask yourself, "was I put in this position for me, or to help identify and raise up the next leader?"
Looking into God's word reveals people of all ages being used in critical times. Paul was no young chap, neither was Abraham. Jesus was in his 30s before God chose to bring about the series of events which would reveal the reason why he sent his Son. David was young when his journey started but he also made a lot of stupid mistakes in his younger days that he seemed to learn from with age. So, I guess I gain comfort from this.
I am not a Braveheart-speech type of individual. I am not going to stand on a mountaintop and dare all young challengers to just try and knock me off. I sense that just as God brought me into this position, he will take me out, and there will be peace about it.
Need to stop thinking about this...
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Tempo, the worship killer
When I started my position as worship leader, I remember having many concerns: would I choose the right songs, would my singing and playing be up to snuff, will I say the right things between songs, will I have the band needed to do the quality of service I desired in my head? In the end, like I hope all worship leaders think, I just wanted to please God by creating a worship atmosphere where people could connect to the living Spirit of the Holy One.
In all of that fretting, the one enemy I never saw coming was tempo. The inability of a worship leader to control tempo can destroy every bit of time spent in song selection and rehearsal. It is like a disease of sorts, spreading from one band member to another at unfortunate times. Thus, it has become a preoccupation with myself and my team. From my own observations, I have found that tempo increases occur in 1 of 2 primary ways:
1. Members of the team are not singing the song in their heads but simply playing their instrument. To me, just playing an instrument seems like missing out on the event and greatness of worship. But, even worse, it disconnects the musician from the heart and soul aspect of the song which is where the tempo is born from.
2. Many worship songs gain and give back energy during the course of the song. All bands are prone to picking up tempo during the build up in energy. If you do not have a spot to pull most of the instruments out, musicians will keep the increased tempo into the quieter parts. This is the ultimate worship killer. A congregation shouldn't have to think about how they will get the words out, but rather how the words are a praise to God coming from their heart. They need time to 'think' about each word.
So what is the solution? The direction most people are going is to feed a metronome click track into the ear buds of the musicians onstage. But what if due to personalities, finances, or equipment/logistics this isn't an option? Then what you are left with is that the worship leader must be in full control of a song and they must have the discipline to maintain tempo. Everyone, especially those holding rhythms must, for lack of a better word, submit to the authority of the worship leader. The worship leader must be loudest element in any mix going to the stage. Sink or swim, they are responsible for the feel of a song.
In all of that fretting, the one enemy I never saw coming was tempo. The inability of a worship leader to control tempo can destroy every bit of time spent in song selection and rehearsal. It is like a disease of sorts, spreading from one band member to another at unfortunate times. Thus, it has become a preoccupation with myself and my team. From my own observations, I have found that tempo increases occur in 1 of 2 primary ways:
1. Members of the team are not singing the song in their heads but simply playing their instrument. To me, just playing an instrument seems like missing out on the event and greatness of worship. But, even worse, it disconnects the musician from the heart and soul aspect of the song which is where the tempo is born from.
2. Many worship songs gain and give back energy during the course of the song. All bands are prone to picking up tempo during the build up in energy. If you do not have a spot to pull most of the instruments out, musicians will keep the increased tempo into the quieter parts. This is the ultimate worship killer. A congregation shouldn't have to think about how they will get the words out, but rather how the words are a praise to God coming from their heart. They need time to 'think' about each word.
So what is the solution? The direction most people are going is to feed a metronome click track into the ear buds of the musicians onstage. But what if due to personalities, finances, or equipment/logistics this isn't an option? Then what you are left with is that the worship leader must be in full control of a song and they must have the discipline to maintain tempo. Everyone, especially those holding rhythms must, for lack of a better word, submit to the authority of the worship leader. The worship leader must be loudest element in any mix going to the stage. Sink or swim, they are responsible for the feel of a song.
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