1 Degree of Andy

My guest today had some of the biggest hits in Christian Music in the 1980s. Leaving a successful career as the lead singer for Santana, Leon Patillo became one of the most celebrated artists in CCM history. This is one of the most honest and raw conversations I’ve had to date and every minute of it is a reflection of God’s grace.

Unquestionably one of the best bands in Christian music in the 2000s was Tenth Avenue North. Their front man, Mike Donehey, is my guest today and he joins me to talk about their career and why things are much different in the music industry than they were 20 years ago. Mike has a lot to say about an artist’s calling and the necessity for deep friendship.

That voice, those songs, that musical vibe that took over Christian radio in the late 1990s. They all belong to my friend Michelle Tumes, who wrote hit songs for Point of Grace and Jaci Velasquez, just to name a few, but also carved out her own legacy as one of the most unique and beloved CCM artists of all time. It was great fun catching up with her and I'm glad you could come along for the ride.

When I hear the name Mark Lowry, like many of you, I start to laugh because he's one of the funniest people I've ever met. But Mark also has a heart that challenges me and draws me closer to Jesus every time I'm around him. On this episode of 1 Degree we'll talk about how he carved out his place in the Christian music landscape, his relationship with Bill Gaither, and whatever rabbit trail we end up following. Get ready for a really fun conversation.

It could be argued that the Blackwoods are the most important family in the history of Christian music, and Terry Blackwood’s entrance into The Imperials marked a decisive shift in the direction Christian music would take for decades to come. On this episode we’ll hear first hand accounts about Elvis and what it was like creating one of the biggest albums in the early days of CCM.

You may not know the name Mark Heimermann but I know you know his music! He’s best known for producing those iconic DC Talk albums and being involved in the careers of the biggest names in CCM from the 80s and 90s (including my band 4HIM). And just like every musician from that era he has a story to tell and legacy that is continuing to come into focus as he follows leading of God’s voice.

What do fried catfish, I Love Lucy, a “Jesus pest” and the Mississippi delta all have in common? They’re part of the incredible story of David and the Giants, one of the most important bands in the history of Christian music! David Huff is here with me to tell his remarkable story and to preach the gospel as he does it.

In this enlightening discussion, groundbreaking 1980s artist Steve Taylor opens up about his innovative lyrics and the cultural impact they had on Christian music. He reflects on his journey to Nashville and the tension between commercialism and artistic integrity. The duo dives into future projects, including the animated series 'Dead Sea Squirrels,' showcasing his creative versatility. Taylor also shares insights on the evolution of Christian music, emphasizing the importance of meaningful art within spiritual communities.

The "1 Degree of Andy" podcast brings you stories of inspiration and hope with a walk down memory lane by reconnecting you to your favorite Christian singers and songwriters. In each episode, 4Him's Andy Chrisman will not only answer “Where are they now”, but also what they've learned through the trials they've been through since you last heard from them. Season 3 starts in Jan 2025, make sure to subsribe so you never miss an episode!

2024 has been a fantastic year for our little podcast! And even bigger things are on the way in 2025! Thank you to all of our faithful listeners. It's an honor to bring these stories to you each week.Support the showandychrisman.com