I happen to be one of the most eclectic music lovers of all time! And I say that because I have many friends who are very good musicians and they have told me that they are very impressed with my musical acumen. My friend Pedro, not only an impressive musician in his own right, but also a musical composer and editor – has given the nod to me when it comes to naming an artist and song title from any era since music began. In fact, I have been encouraged to go on one of those game shows where you have a certain amount of time to name the artist or title of a song in a few measures.
As a kid growing up in the 60’s through the 80’s, I was exposed to classical music, folk and the British Invasion of music. Beach tunes and soul music were the mainstay in those early days. Then in the 70’s there was the rise of funk, R&B, Jazz, light disco to main disco, and what we now call soft rock. It was at this time that I developed a liking for prog rock, or progressive rock, with songs that lasted over 10 – 20 minutes. Then the 80’s came, and we had new wave, pop, rock, punk rock (which did start in the 70’s but gained more popularity in the 80’s) and stadium rock. Groups like Rush, Queen, Journey, Porcupine Tree, Dream Theater, Styx, Yes, Genesis, Pink Floyd, U2, Kansas, Marillion, ELO, etc were filling my ears with sweet sounds! (And I should make another note here on mi Hermano, Pedro – He actually introduced me to some of the most influential music and musicians in my life – Steven Wilson, Porcupine Tree, Flying Colors.)
Yes, for those of you out there thinking that I was headed to h*&$ in a handbasket, I did listen to some Christian music too, and of course sang in church and played on worship teams during this time. There was Petra, Rez Band, Sweet Comfort, Larry Norman, Micheal W. Smith, Imperials, Degarmo and Key, 2nd Chapter of Acts, Steve Taylor, the 77’s (All Fall Down is an amazing album – check it out!)
The point of all of this besides letting you all see into some of your Pastor’s make up, and of course of how cool he is… We all enjoy things that make us happy, hobbies and things that can transport us to a place where we can rest. In fact, many of those artists songs can transport me to a time and place where I have so many good memories, also sad ones, but it’s the emotion that is so wonderful! I have gone to many concerts as well, U2, Styx, Aha, Adam Ant, Romantics, Night Ranger (with Pedro!) Barenaked Ladies (6+ times) REO Speed wagon, Pink Floyd, Aerosmith, Blues Traveler… just to name a few.
So that’s pretty much it. I just wanted to share my love for music, and what it means to me, and what it can mean to you too. I love music, love all styles from classical to rock, and I really appreciate the time and artistry it takes for someone to make music that can move me. (That’s telekinesis Kyle)
Yeah, I am a Pastor and I love Jesus, more than anything. I hope I make Him proud; I try hard to follow Him each and every day, and to show others that His love is what makes the difference in our world, and in our lives. And I love music!
And… I love music!
Peace!
PTV
(PS… side note – this blog was written early in the week, and I got a text from Pedro yesterday asking if I had heard of an artist named Neal Morse. I hadn’t. But I sure have now, and he’s great! If you are looking for something new – check him out! Thanks Hermano!!)