Behind the Idols
We've got an interview this week that's sure to thrill American Idol fans and hopefully even hold the interest of you non-fans. In fact, there was so much great content that I simply couldn't throw it all your way at once; I had no choice but to split it into two parts.
As you know, there have been several Christians who have not only tried out for television's biggest singing competition, but have also made it into the Top 12. A number of them were available to chat during GMA Week, including Mandisa, Chris Sligh, and Phil Stacey. While it would have been great to interview them individually, we caught a vision of the bigger picture: what if we talked to the three of them for a broader piece about their collective Idol experience? Then we started getting excited about the questions we could ask: Did they all audition for the same reason? What were they hoping to accomplish? What relationships were formed behind the scenes? Were they able to share their faith with others on the show—fellow contestants, as well as producers and staff? What life lessons did they take from the experience?
Sure enough, these three had plenty of stories to share. Hence the lengthy two-part interview, which still won't include all of their personal anecdotes.
I know from various e-mails and conversations that there are a few misconceptions about what it means to have a platform as a Christian artist. Some say that you're irrelevant unless you're a major success. Others say that unless you boldly proclaim Christ from the stage, you're not really a "Christian artist."
These three contestants have dispelled those myths. Though none of them won the top spot in the competition, they've all gone on to record deals and have indeed become relevant to niche audiences. And though they were operating in an environment that limited some of what they could say on stage, they were able to build relationships and affect lives behind the scenes—to the extent where the show now seems more receptive to Christianity with the recent performance of "Shout to the Lord."
It was truly a pleasure to chat with Mandisa, Chris, and Phil because it confirmed something that I've long been passionate about. God has placed each of us in a unique set of circumstances that allows us to serve him in our own way. Sometimes that means we affect the lives of a few; sometimes it means we affect many. The point isn't so much the platform as it is to reflect Christ to others wherever he has placed us—even if that happens to be the biggest reality show on television, and even if it means gently witnessing behind the scenes.
Speaking of Chris Sligh and Phil Stacey, their new albums are two of the reviews featured this week. We've also got some worship projects from newcomer Sheri Carr, as well as gospel artists Alvin Slaughter and Tye Tribbett & G.A. Plus, former Petra frontman John Schlitt offers his first solo project in 12 years. Last but not least, don't miss our introductory interview with acclaimed new alternative rock band After Edmund.
Have a great week, and a happy Mother's Day to all the moms!
Russ Breimeier
ChristianityToday.com
http://www.christianitytoday.com/music/
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