Guestsplaining: Fr. Isaiah & J.J. Wright on How Music Connects Us
Jan 20, 2025
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Fr. Isaiah, a Franciscan Friar of the Renewal and musician, joins J.J. Wright, a renowned composer and director of the Notre Dame Folk Choir, to delve into the transformative power of music. They discuss their collaborative projects and the spiritual journey inspired by their friendship forged in a homeless shelter. The conversation highlights the delicate balance of individual aspirations within creative work and the importance of gratitude in building community connections. Tune in for insights on how music can unite and uplift the faith experience!
Fr. Isaiah and J.J. Wright’s collaboration exemplifies how genuine relationships formed in service can lead to artistic creativity.
The duo challenges the perception of religious music by blending sacred themes with contemporary sounds to resonate with a wider audience.
Deep dives
The Origin of Musical Collaboration
The collaboration between Father Isaiah and J.J. Wright began in a unique setting—a homeless shelter in the Bronx, where they formed a friendship while volunteering together. Their shared passion for music flourished alongside their commitment to serving those in need, illustrating how genuine relationships can seed creative projects. The duo later came together to produce the Poco a Poco album, which reflects their love for music and their shared experiences in ministry. Through this collaboration, they highlight the profound impact that friendship and community service can have on artistic endeavors.
Bridging the Gap Between Sacred and Secular Music
The conversation highlights the common perception that religious music lacks the quality and production value of secular music, which can lead to negative associations. J.J. Wright aims to challenge this notion by creating music that resonates with both sacred themes and contemporary sounds, inviting a broader audience to connect with the message of faith. The collaboration focuses on honoring the personal and vulnerable stories behind the music, particularly Father Isaiah’s journey towards the priesthood. This approach not only enhances the authenticity of the work but also seeks to elevate the quality of religiously affiliated music.
The Journey and Diversity of the 'Mysteries and Medicines' Album
The 'Mysteries and Medicines' album is designed as a musical representation of the journey of conversion and the joy of repentance. It features a diverse array of styles across its ten tracks, reflecting the varied landscapes of personal experiences in faith. The album aims to create a tapestry of sound that is both relatable and uplifting, encouraging listeners to engage deeply with their own spiritual journeys. By combining different genres and expressing personal stories, the artists hope to evoke a sense of connection and invite listeners into a broader dialogue about faith and personal growth.
Fr. Isaiah of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal (the CFRs) and composer and producer J.J. Wright join Fr. Gregory this week to talk their new project, music connecting people, the role the Lord plays in their work, experimenting with music, and more. Join us for this episode of Guestsplaining!
Find Fr. Isaiah's music on Spotify, Apple Music, and here on YouTube under https://www.youtube.com/ @cfrs