Miranda A. Uyeh's Blog, page 20

Album Review ~ Whole Heart By Passion Music

[image error]About Whole Heart

“Rooted out of the Passion movement, we are committed to leading people towards renewed intimacy with God and fresh encounters of worship. Passion is more than music. More than events. Passion is a generation living for His name.”

WHOLE HEART is the new live album from Passion—captured at Passion Conference 2018 in Atlanta, GA. Passion Conference 2018 was a beautiful worship experience, and the live album captures each powerful moment, allowing those who were not in attendance to experience it. Featuring Passion Artists: Kristian Stanfill, Melodie Malone, Sean Curran, Matt Redman, Crowder.

Interview With Actor, Taylor James, Main Cast In Pureflix’s Original Motion Picture, Samson

Taylor James is the cast behind the character, Samson, of the movie of the same title by Pureflix, due to release this February. Taylor is a man who believes in hard work, moral/ethical strength, and the beauty of the arts. He has studied under and worked with the greats in the world of British theatre, and has had an interesting transition into film. Taking the time to talk with TBAP and to share his unique perspective with the world, Taylor opens the door to let us in on his personal journey into the entertainment industry and the principles that drive him as a person. Take a look!

Miranda ~ Hello Taylor! It’s a delight to have you visit TBAP today. Could you please tell us a bit about yourself?

Taylor: I am a man on a mission!!! I work extremely hard day in day out to continually upgrade my mental, physical, and spiritual operating system, in hope to be the best possible version of myself. I constantly glean insight, information, and experience off the leaders and the greats before us, whilst also securing and surrounding myself with modern day pioneers who have challenged the boundaries and perceptions of the norm, in order to make the world a slightly better place. Through Art and the love of Storytelling, I set my ship sailing towards the idea of perfection. The various comments of Art, be it, Music, Poetry, Acting, Directing, Producing, Writing in the mediums of Theatre, TV and Film…I seek to inspire others whilst on my journey and strive to maintain a strict moral and ethical compass throughout. I have spent 15 years in London’s West End working as a theatre actor. It has been the perfect training ground for me, working with classical text through to modern day comedy, with incredible producers, playwrights, directors, and actors. Before transitioning into Film with my latest project, Samson, my last year’s work was with The Kenneth Branagh Theatre Company, working with Sir Ken himself, Sir Derrick Jacobi, and Dame Judi Dench in Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale and Romeo and Juliet.

Miranda ~ When did you first decide to go into film/entertainment? What events particularly led to your first contract as an actor?

Taylor: I decided to go into entertainment following the suggestion from my mother after I had been struggling with the academic side of my childhood dream to be a Pilot. I had never sought after the entertainment world before. However, as it gave the creative side of my soul a chance to blossom, I realized quickly it was the right path…although many years ahead would now need to be devoted to the art and perfection of Storytelling.

Miranda ~ Samson, the movie, will be out this February. What, about the story, inspired you to accept the role of Samson, the lead character, seeing the bitter-sweet end of the character in the Bible? What was your experience on set like?

Taylor: To this day, I still will openly say my experience on the project of Samson has been the greatest chapter in my life. I have never connected with material so devotedly before, nor with certain personalities. My relationship with the Director, Bruce Macdonald, has been the birth of me as an adult and leader within the entertainment industry. His belief in me allowed the “opening of the tap,” and after many years of my learning and listening from the greats, as I observed in the background, Bruce gave me a canvas in which I could paint my ideas, my stories, my skills, and my talent. To him I shall be eternally grateful.

The connection with Samson, as a character, and his story, is something that dates back to a vision I had many years before. I knew that in order to play iconic roles in my life time, I needed to have a physical, mental, spiritual and emotional strength that would handle and understand them. The preparation for Samson started long before I knew our paths would cross. So, when they did, I was ready. I knew I could bring something to the role that no other person could. It was imperative to me, that I make Samson not just a man of physical strength who could perform the great feats he is so well known, for but also to illustrate a man that people could have empathy with/for, and forge an emotional connection that made him human, vulnerable, and also relatable. That emotional arch—that journey and understanding of why he was reluctant— ultimately allowed me to show this famously flawed hero in a different light. I feel in the film, Bruce, the creative team and myself, show the audience what it is to be trapped by fear, what it is to be reluctant, and what it is to give into your destiny, and in Samson’s case, find redemption and succeed.

Miranda ~ Being British, and working in the American industry, presents a unique platform that produces a diverse range of opportunities. What’s that like? Also, in what way would you say both industries are different?

Taylor: I am grateful for the additional opportunities that come in abundance working overseas. The entrainment industry is such a mecca here in the USA and the wealth of talent, the number of people’s pursuit for the art of storytelling and the possibilities to reach huge audiences is phenomenal. They way in which they are different, is supply and demand. That basis drives a higher work rate…for that, I am grateful.

Miranda ~ Who are the people who’ve inspired you in your work and in life as a whole? How so?

Taylor: Poets, Playwrights, Directors, Actors, Parents, Friends, Agents. In all people around the world, I can find inspiration—the way in which someone sweeps a floor to the way someone fights for equality. The special people are all around us should we choose to open our eyes and look. For reasons my vocabulary of words will never be enough to express my gratitude to those who have inspired or supported me, I shall just say a few instrumental names—My mother, Brother and Best Friends: Max Ehrmann, Kevin Huvane, Michael Grandage, Kenneth Branagh, Bruce Macdonald, Jamie lloyd, Phyllida Lloyd, Judi Crammer, Anne McNulty. I remember each and every moment their kind nature blessed my life…to them and countless others, Thank you.

Miranda ~ Why do you act?

Taylor: To evoke emotions in others. To inspire people, to remind people, to highlight how we are all united by journeys, lessons, messages and experiences.

Miranda ~ What do you believe good storytelling, especially on screen, can do for the world?

Taylor: It can shape, it can challenge, it can redefine limits and possibilities, it can break boundaries, it can create relationships, it can spark imagination, it can birth dreams, it can create nightmares, it can show worlds known to many and show worlds never explored. The screen is limitless, like art should be. It transports us as audiences to places where our soul can be lifted or broken. It is a medium I have only scraped the surface of, yet one I am fascinated by and with.

Miranda ~ What do you hope the people who watch you on Samson will get out of watching the character, and also the movie as a whole?

Taylor: I hope the audiences experiences are unique to each person watching. I hope something within the story, be it an image, a message, a sentence or a sound, strikes a chord within, that evokes an emotion that will stay, resonate, and connect with each individual person. I hope the message of reluctance, redemption and God’s willingness to forgive, leaves a lasting impression. I hope it provokes conversation. I hope it shapes people’s lives.

Miranda ~ What are you most grateful for, right now and generally?

Taylor: I am grateful for my inner strength and the value of hard work. I am grateful for the support of loved ones. I am grateful for art and how it provokes emotion within me and others. I am grateful for my awareness that life is precious and must be fulfilled to its highest. I am grateful for life.

Miranda ~ What advice would you offer an actor who hopes to go international as you have, as opposed to staying local in their country?

Taylor: Read the poem by Charles Bukowski titled “Roll the Dice.” It starts with “If you’re going to try…go all the way.” Surround yourself with things that inspire you, watch things that motivate you, listen to things that remind you of WHY you do what you do, whatever that thing is. If someone hopes or dreams of something, if someone wants or believes in something, throughout every waking and sleeping moment…it will happen. My advice? “Go all the way.”

This is That (The Fun Qs!)

Coffee or Tea? Coffee. Always.

Gym or Outdoor? GYM

Sneakers or Boots? Boots

Running or Walking? If not for injury, running.

Cereal or Fruit? Fruit

Books or Music? BOTH

TV or Magazine? Magazine

Summer or Spring? Spring

Rain or Snow? Snow

Blazer or Leather Jacket? Leather Jacket

Thank you, Taylor, for stopping by today! Pleasure.

[image error]About Taylor James

Taylor James’ many film and television credits include BLITZ for Lionsgate; MAMMA MIA for Universal; CHRISTMAS EVE for Unstuck; and JUSTICE LEAGUE for Warner Bros. His television credits include Material Girl and Hotel Babylon for BBC; Sirens and Red Dwarf for Channel 4; and Howard’s Happy Place, for Idris Elba and SKY 1. Now he plays the iconic title role in PURE FLIX’s biblical epic, SAMSON.

Taylor launched his acting career on London’s West End as an original cast member in the U.K. production of the musical Footloose, playing the iconic character of Willard Hewitt. Roles followed in international hits such as Guys and Dolls on stage and Mamma Mia, both on stage and film.

Taylor’s love for storytelling led him to work with classical texts such as The Duchess of Malfi at The Old Vic theatre and modern adaptations of period stories such as Danton’s Death at the National Theatre, PIAF for the Donmar Warehouse and the Broadway hit The Little Dog Laughed.

More recently, Taylor spent a season with the Kenneth Branagh Theatre Company performing in both stage and film productions of The Winter’s Tale, starring Dame Judi Dench and Sir Kenneth Branagh; and Romeo and Juliet, in the role of Prince Escalus, with Lily James and Richard Madden.

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Published on February 16, 2018 10:35

Artist Scoop ~ Interview with Music Artist, Cameron Moore

Cameron Moore is the amazing voice behind the album, Alpenglow (read the TBAP review here). An upcoming and rising star on the Christian music scene, the major Christian platforms have nothing but good things to say about Moore’s music. He is currently the Contemporary Worship Director and Assistant Youth Director at his church at Charlotte, North Carolina. Taking the time to share with TBAP about his faith and work, Moore has proven to be quite the interesting artist with some wisdom to share. Take a look!

Miranda ~ Hello Cameron! Delighted to have you visit TBAP today! Please tell us a bit about yourself.

Cameron: Thank you so much for having me! I am originally from Charlotte, NC. I went to UNC Asheville for undergrad where I double-majored in History and Religious Studies. Following graduation, I returned to the Charlotte area, and I am now on staff at Davidson United Methodist Church as the Contemporary Worship Director and Assistant Youth Director. I live in North Charlotte with my wife, Abby, and our dog, Buster.

Miranda ~ Is there a special story on how you became a Christian? We’d like to know!

Cameron: For me, personally, church was always a part of my life. There are seasons that have been more or less impactful, but I can’t think of a specific special story that defines my Christian journey.

Miranda ~ When did music become a part of your life? What led you to choose the Christian industry over the mainstream?

Cameron: Music has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I started playing guitar when I was seven. My brother had a beginner’s guitar and, one day, I picked it up and started playing with it. My parents decided to find somewhere for me to learn, and got me into lessons pretty soon after that. It wasn’t until I was about fourteen that I started focusing time on singing. Since then I have dabbled in piano and midi.

When I was about ten, I remember writing my first song. At the time, I wrote about what I knew and believed. The older I get, the more I realize that I am the type of songwriter who writes as a way of wrestling with what I believe. I think that while most of my new album moves in a new direction, there will always be echoes of my Christian beliefs layered in the lyrics that I write.

Miranda ~ You have a new album out now, Alpenglow. Why this title?

Cameron: Alpenglow is defined as “the rosy color in the sky at sunset and sunrise.” As I spent more time writing and thinking about this album, it felt like it all told a story. All in all, the record is meant to represent a journey through the night, and all of the joys and struggles that that journey can entail.

Miranda ~ What inspired the songs of Alpenglow and, what message do you hope to pass to your listeners?

Cameron: The ten songs on this record were written over a span of three or four years. While some of them were inspired by life experiences, I think that many of these songs were born from world events, and from my wrestling with what I believe as a result. As a songwriter, I always hope that the music I write has an impact on listeners in a way that makes them want to listen to my record over and over again. I hope that Alpenglow specifically causes listeners to think deeper and to ask questions about what they believe, and what it means to live in the world today.

Miranda ~ Is there a method/process to your songwriting? What is your underlying principle when it comes to writing songs and, when do you know a song is ready?

Cameron: When it comes to writing songs, I often write the music first. I typically have some lyrics in mind when this happens, but the music tends to shape the way that I write the lyrics. Very rarely do I write a song and think, “I should leave it just like this!” Overall, I’d like to believe that I am very intentional with my word choice, and if the words pieced together don’t convey the message that I want them to, then I keep tweaking until it feels right. Ultimately, it comes down to a feeling for me as to whether or not a song is ready.

Miranda ~ How has your perspective changed since joining the industry—any particular mind-shifting experience? How has this experience affected you personally? Has it drawn you closer to God?

Cameron: The music industry is an interesting place. It is one thing to have the passion for writing and performing music, but it is something completely different to know how to market and operate like a business. I would say that my experience in recent years has been eye-opening in the sense that, it has taught me how to focus my time and energy on things that will have a higher impact. It can be easy to jump at every opportunity, but discerning where to invest is tough. As for my faith journey, my schedule can make it pretty difficult to find that personal time to grow and seek. That is something that I have to be very intentional about making time for.

Miranda ~ How do you balance family and church?

Cameron: As hard as it is, I really try to make and enforce boundaries when it comes to family and church. I spend a lot of time working at the church, but I also know there is a need to spend time deepening my relationship with my wife. I don’t think this is ever easy, but I do believe that we need to try and set some boundaries in place to give time and energy to both.

Miranda ~ What would you like to see change on the Christian music scene? What do you believe that you in particular can offer the world and add to the music scene that isn’t already there?

Cameron: When I reflect on the Christian music scene today, I sense a yearning for change. I would love to see an embrace of new sounds as artists begin experimenting with how to grow and expand and deepen the music that we produce. When I step back and look at my music, I see something that I think can span across genres. While I am a Christian who makes music, I hope that what I create can have an impact in more than just one corner of the music industry.

Miranda ~ What advice would you offer a person who’s just starting out in the industry?

Cameron: I would start by saying that almost nothing happens overnight. Often times, it is a long journey to get to where you want to go. I would add that there isn’t one “formula” for how to make a living in the music industry. If there is anything that I have learned over the past year, it is that everyone’s story about getting to where they are now is different. If you truly love making music, then pursue that and see where your passion can take you.

The Fun Qs!

Coffee or Tea? I really like both, but coffee.

Gym or Outdoor? Outdoors, for sure.

Sneakers or Boots? Probably, boots.

Running or Walking? As much as it may pain me to say it, I think I have to say, running.

Cereal or Fruit? Fruit.

Movies or Books? Movies.

TV or Magazine? TV.

Summer or Spring? Spring.

Rain or Snow? Rain.

Blazer or Leather Jacket? Leather Jacket.

[image error]About Cameron Moore

Cameron is a 23 year old who resides in the state of North Carolina. At the age of seven, Cameron began learning guitar. A number of years later, when Cameron was fourteen, he joined a band at his church. The band encouraged him to become the lead singer as they prepared to lead worship for youth events later that year. This period nurtured a passion for music and leading worship. Eventually the band dissolved, but this did not stop Cameron from pursuing his new found love for music.

Cameron began writing music in his free time and later found a home with a church worship team in downtown Charlotte. This opened the door to working with a variety of skilled musicians who came alongside him and taught him more about music. As he neared the end of high school, Cameron began recording his music. After starting college at the University of North Carolina at Asheville in the Fall of 2012, Cameron signed a management contract with McLaughlin Music Group International. A year and a half later, he released a five-track, self-titled EP.

Since his debut release in November of 2014, Cameron has performed or led worship nearly every weekend, and has opened in concert for Laura Story, aired on and been interviewed by Christian radio stations all around the world, and traveled the east coast for various conferences and concerts. Cameron Moore is currently on staff at Davidson United Methodist Church, where he serves as the Contemporary Worship Director and the Assistant Youth Director. Cameron’s sophomore album, Alpenglow, released on January 26, 2018.

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Published on February 08, 2018 22:00

Busy Signal

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When God gives you a call, does He get right through?

Or does He get a busy signal?

Keeping the line clear takes work sometimes. Decluttering of noise, of distractions and desires, and thoughts vying for our attention. Too often the urgent overtakes the critical. Spiritual triage falls forgotten in the wasteland of looming work deadlines and constant barrage of social media notifications.

And our souls shrivel.

But Busy Is Good!

Western culture reveres busyness as the measure of success. The laws of supply and demand insist that the less time someone has for us, the more it is worth pursuing their attention. The heavier someone’s workload, the better their skills must be. And the more exhausted we are chasing our version of a dream, the more applause we should earn. Because, busy is good!

But is it really?

Our excuses make sense. I mean, especially in the entertainment and film industry, you gotta hustle. Gigs often present themselves at the last minute, requiring shoving everything else to the side in a sprint to prepare as best we can. Long days on set leave us with next to no energy to climb into bed, much less call a family member or stay awake for a few minutes of prayer. After wrap there is that confusing season of set lag, where our bodies do their best to recalibrate immune systems and appetites and sleep cycles amid the inevitable catching up on a mountain of mundane chores. And if you are raising a family, that adds its own set of very valid priorities and pressures.

We cant afford to take time for God. After all, we are busy serving Him! And yet, we cant afford not to.

No Time To Chew

Then, when we do make the time to take in a soul-nourishing Word, we often approach it like a task on our obese checklist rather than as a sanctuary of stillness from the rush.

A friend shared their experience of diligently going through their daily Bible reading plan. Ten chapters: check. One day, while only on chapter two, they came across a few verses that captured their heart, but resisted the temptation to stop and dwell on them before completing their allotment of chapters. Temptation? Or invitation? They hadn’t gotten too much farther before the Holy Spirit convicted them of basically telling Him to shush until they were done. If we go to Gods Word to hear Him speak, why would we treat His quickening of those words as an interruption? Yet I find I relate all too well…

To be clear, I’m not dissing reading plans. Regular meals are essential to spiritual health! But if we don’t chew our food, and savor the taste and textures, we wont be digesting all the nutrients from it that we could, nor grow to anticipate the feast, if we are intent on swallowing portions whole.

These are the Words of Life! Just because we have them readily accessible at any moment does not mean they are to be treasured less. For where our treasure is, there will our hearts be also. (see Matthew 6:21)

Breaking The Cycle

Listen, friends, we don’t have to stay stuck in this crazy cycle. I know it’s usually not our conscious choice to even be in it; it just “happens” and we get too caught up in the rat-race to notice. It’s like if we get a headache, and rather than drink water to treat our dehydration, we pop a pill to mask the pain. But concealing the symptoms isn’t a true solution!

How do we transition to a lifestyle of valuing time with God and increase our sensitivity to His voice?

One thing I know for sure, is that, it doesn’t happen by accident. Like with any relationship, intentionality is key for maintenance and growth. This is something I am working toward myself; I don’t have all the answers, but I am pressing on toward the goal. (see Philippians 3: 12-16) And if I were to articulate my New Years resolution, it would be this: Pursue Gods presence, heed His voice, and live how He loves.

1. Pursue Gods Presence

Unfortunately, the fact that God is omnipresent (present always and everywhere) doesn’t automatically keep me from ignoring Him. I want to practice being more aware of Him with me, and do more of the things I know He takes pleasure in. This also includes letting go of things I know are getting in the way of intimacy in my relationship with God. Choosing a verse to think on throughout my day, or getting the right truth-declaring song stuck in my head, are great ways to keep my focus in the right place.

2. Heed His Voice

Scripture tells us that Gods voice is recognized by His sheep (that includes me!), so I don’t need to worry about that. The harder part is being still to listen for the gentle whisper (see 1 Kings 19). Its not necessary to be in a quiet environment physically (although it certainly doesn’t hurt, right?). Being still is more of an internal quieting and perking up of our heart to hear. To heed is to take notice of and pay careful attention to. It carries a sense of alertness, mindfulness, and high regard for who or what you are heeding. So, to hear clearly I need to listen with a willing heart that is ready to joyfully obey!

3. Live How He Loves

God loves purely and extravagantly and sacrificially. 1 Corinthians 13 is commonly called the Love chapter because of how thoroughly it explores the nature and power of the Love of God. The first letter the apostle John wrote (aptly titled 1 John) explores even deeper how this Love affects that way we should live. The new commandment Jesus gave us was to love as He has loved us (see John 13:34). Because of how He loves and restores me, I can reach out to others with that same unconditional, grace-filled, healing love.

Whether we are raising kids, making movies, or spreading kindness to friends and strangers alike, that’s to be the core of our life’s mission: serving as His ambassadors of reconciliation to a broken, hurting world that He died to restore. And I never want to be too busy for that!

And [Jesus] said, He who has ears to hear, let him hear. – Mark 4:9

[image error]About This Contributor

Rebekah Cook is a Christ-follower, daughter, sister, aunt, friend, team-player, hugger, and nonstop encourager. She lived in Spain for nineteen years before moving stateside to pursue her passion for screen acting. She got her start apprenticing with Advent Film Group, and since 2009 has served on both cast and crew for sixteen feature film productions (and a handful of shorts). Her first lead role was as Virginia Page for In His Steps, a modern adaptation of the controversial and inspiring 19th century novel.

Participating in the casting and production process from both sides has cross-trained her skills in the industry, and enabled her to mentor other rising talent. Rebekah loves working with directors and fellow actors as they develop characters from a script and bring them to life on the screen. Both on and off of film sets, her heartfelt calling is to be an ambassador of Christ and share God’s love with those around her.

You can learn more about her film work on her website.

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Published on February 04, 2018 22:00

Entertainment Scoop ~ Interview With DREAM Records GM, Lance Brown

It’s an honor to introduce this guest on TBAP, Lance Brown, the man behind much of the success of DREAM Records Group! Lance is a partner and GM of DREAM Records, and has being on the Christian music scene for 20 years. He is responsible for the success of many artists, older and upcoming, and has worked with teams of Grammy-nominated professionals across the board to produce the best music on the Christian music scene. Lance took the time to share with TBAP a bit about his life, personal beliefs, and work ethic.

Miranda ~ Hello Lance! Honored to have you visit TBAP today. Please tell us a bit about yourself.

Lance: Thank you. Well, my name is Lance Brown. I’m on the partners at Dream Records. I’m a health nut, I make funny posts on Facebook, I’m a proud father, and I’m dedicated to the one who rose from the grave.

Miranda ~ How did you become a Christian? In what way do you believe your personal journey as a Christian/Executive producer inspires those around you?

Lance: My walk with Christ started at a very young age as my mom instilled her faith in me. I was baptized at age 11 and went on a beautiful educational journey in college that only reaffirmed my faith as a young adult to today, independently of my family. I’m a big believer that the walk can be more important than the talk, so I do my best to do the right thing through action quite a bit.

Miranda ~ When did music become a part of your life? What events inspired, and in particular, led to the starting of DREAM Label Group?

Lance: How much time do you have? Haha. The short story is I learned about music around age 5 when my Dad took me to a music store to buy a cassette tape. From there, I realized rather quickly how melody influenced people. After I graduated from college, I went into the music business as a music manager where I learned from the greats. I later started my own management company where I saw a number of my acts reach heights I never realized were possible. About 10 years ago, I met Dave Hanley (the founder of DREAM Records) and we had the same vision to mold the culture of the Christian industry, and so we started working together. Fast forward to today, we have 8 labels now. It’s been quite the journey.

Miranda ~ How would you describe your early days in the industry? What lessons/principles have you learned that keep you afloat, and, how has your journey in the industry bettered your walk with God?

Lance: I learned quite early on, that the music industry is about having vision, being passionate, working hard, and building solid relationships. There are no shortcuts to this business, and it’s easy to come and go without those principles. I believe God has been in the details of all of those principles for me and I have been blessed to be in the business for 20 years as a result.

Miranda ~ You’ve signed a good number of artists/bands/worship teams that have turned out to be popular and favorites. What do you look out for in an artist/band/team before you sign them? How do you meet your artists?

Lance: I usually find artists just like how everybody else does…friends, music sites, social sites. The best advice I’ve ever received was from the late Bill Hearn (RIP) at Capitol Christian when I asked him what the secret to his success was. His wise reply was simple: “good music.”

Miranda ~ DREAM Label now works with Film companies. For each, how did this come about? What services in particular do you offer each group?

Lance: Dream has always been fascinated with the application of music in film. Songs have gone from popular to timeless when placed in film, and we’ve always wanted to add that to our repertoire. Our growing relationships with film studios and production companies have been quite organic, but we’ve worked hard to achieve them. We are encouraged to see those songs go on songs inspired albums to being in the films themselves.

Miranda ~ You’ve been on the executive/business side of music for a long time. In what way is the Christian industry different than the mainstream and, what would you like to see change on the Christian scene?

Lance: If you accept that the major difference is the obvious: that the Christian scene is its own genre with its own relationships, the philosophy to break artists is the exact same as the mainstream. I will say, though, that the people in this industry are some of the best people I’ve had the pleasure to work with.

Miranda ~ There is an illusion out there about the entertainment industry, especially in regards to hard work, fame, and money. Please, speak frankly about this.

Lance: I’ve always been concerned about the motivation of “fame” or “money” in anything. If you approach this business (or any business) with the same principles that hard work and passion can produce results then that should be the motivation. Fame and money are mere byproducts of hard work. While there’s nothing wrong with having fame or money, people who have it should have a solid relationship with God so they don’t fall in love with fame and money.

Miranda ~ What are you most grateful for right now and generally?

Lance: My son Rylan. Outside of accepting Jesus into my heart he’s the best thing that has ever happened to me. I love him dearly and people that know me know my testimony with him.

Miranda ~ What advice would you offer to a person who wants to start a record label of their own?

Lance: Starting a record company should always be a passion because it’s a lot of work. I’ve always recommended that before starting anything, to learn from others in those fields first. Get an internship no matter how old you are if you want to be in this business. Learn the business so you don’t fall into the pitfalls people who don’t learn, do. I think that’s a lesson for life really. Be intentional. Learn. Believe.

THIS or THAT (The Fun Qs!)

Coffee or Tea? Coffee in the morning. Tea at night!

Gym or Outdoor? Gym.

Sneakers or Boots? I can’t go anywhere without my sneakers.

Running or Walking? Walking.

Cereal or Fruit? Fruit.

Movies or Books? Movies.

TV or Magazine? TV

Summer or Spring? What’s the difference? I live in L.A.

Rain or Snow? Snow

Blazer or Leather Jacket? Blazer

About Lance Brown

Lance Brown is a partner and GM at DREAM Records. Realizing at a young age the influence of music on people, and also a Christian at heart, after graduating college he stepped into the music scene as a music manager and watched some of the artists he managed soar to heights beyond what he imagined possible. Fueled by passion and this success, Lance went on to start an artist management company of his own. Roughly ten years into the entertainment business, he met Dave Hanley (founder of DREAM Records). Having a similar vision as Dave, they joined forces and together established eight labels to date with offices spanning from Honolulu to L.A. Their work has not only led to the rising of celebrated artists, but has attracted a strong alliance with movie studios as well. Lance has signed a number of great artists and upcoming that continue to be favorites on Christian music radio, thereby reshaping the culture on the Christian music scene, and the entertainment industry at large. Learn more about DREAM Records Group here.

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Published on February 01, 2018 22:00

Entertainment Scoop ~ Interview With DREAM Records Boss, Lance Brown

It’s an honor to introduce this guest on TBAP, Lance Brown, the man behind much of the success of DREAM Records Group! Lance is a partner and GM of DREAM Records, and has being on the Christian music scene for 20 years. He is responsible for the success of many artists, older and upcoming, and has worked with teams of Grammy-nominated professionals across the board to produce the best music on the Christian music scene. Lance took the time to share with TBAP a bit about his life, personal beliefs, and work ethic.

Miranda ~ Hello Lance! Honored to have you visit TBAP today. Please tell us a bit about yourself.

Lance: Thank you. Well, my name is Lance Brown. I’m on the partners at Dream Records. I’m a health nut, I make funny posts on Facebook, I’m a proud father, and I’m dedicated to the one who rose from the grave.

Miranda ~ How did you become a Christian? In what way do you believe your personal journey as a Christian/Executive producer inspires those around you?

Lance: My walk with Christ started at a very young age as my mom instilled her faith in me. I was baptized at age 11 and went on a beautiful educational journey in college that only reaffirmed my faith as a young adult to today, independently of my family. I’m a big believer that the walk can be more important than the talk, so I do my best to do the right thing through action quite a bit.

Miranda ~ When did music become a part of your life? What events inspired, and in particular, led to the starting of DREAM Label Group?

Lance: How much time do you have? Haha. The short story is I learned about music around age 5 when my Dad took me to a music store to buy a cassette tape. From there, I realized rather quickly how melody influenced people. After I graduated from college, I went into the music business as a music manager where I learned from the greats. I later started my own management company where I saw a number of my acts reach heights I never realized were possible. About 10 years ago, I met Dave Hanley (the founder of DREAM Records) and we had the same vision to mold the culture of the Christian industry, and so we started working together. Fast forward to today, we have 8 labels now. It’s been quite the journey.

Miranda ~ How would you describe your early days in the industry? What lessons/principles have you learned that keep you afloat, and, how has your journey in the industry bettered your walk with God?

Lance: I learned quite early on, that the music industry is about having vision, being passionate, working hard, and building solid relationships. There are no shortcuts to this business, and it’s easy to come and go without those principles. I believe God has been in the details of all of those principles for me and I have been blessed to be in the business for 20 years as a result.

Miranda ~ You’ve signed a good number of artists/bands/worship teams that have turned out to be popular and favorites. What do you look out for in an artist/band/team before you sign them? How do you meet your artists?

Lance: I usually find artists just like how everybody else does…friends, music sites, social sites. The best advice I’ve ever received was from the late Bill Hearn (RIP) at Capitol Christian when I asked him what the secret to his success was. His wise reply was simple: “good music.”

Miranda ~ DREAM Label now works with Film companies. For each, how did this come about? What services in particular do you offer each group?

Lance: Dream has always been fascinated with the application of music in film. Songs have gone from popular to timeless when placed in film, and we’ve always wanted to add that to our repertoire. Our growing relationships with film studios and production companies have been quite organic, but we’ve worked hard to achieve them. We are encouraged to see those songs go on songs inspired albums to being in the films themselves.

Miranda ~ You’ve been on the executive/business side of music for a long time. In what way is the Christian industry different than the mainstream and, what would you like to see change on the Christian scene?

Lance: If you accept that the major difference is the obvious: that the Christian scene is its own genre with its own relationships, the philosophy to break artists is the exact same as the mainstream. I will say, though, that the people in this industry are some of the best people I’ve had the pleasure to work with.

Miranda ~ There is an illusion out there about the entertainment industry, especially in regards to hard work, fame, and money. Please, speak frankly about this.

Lance: I’ve always been concerned about the motivation of “fame” or “money” in anything. If you approach this business (or any business) with the same principles that hard work and passion can produce results then that should be the motivation. Fame and money are mere byproducts of hard work. While there’s nothing wrong with having fame or money, people who have it should have a solid relationship with God so they don’t fall in love with fame and money.

Miranda ~ What are you most grateful for right now and generally?

Lance: My son Rylan. Outside of accepting Jesus into my heart he’s the best thing that has ever happened to me. I love him dearly and people that know me know my testimony with him.

Miranda ~ What advice would you offer to a person who wants to start a record label of their own?

Lance: Starting a record company should always be a passion because it’s a lot of work. I’ve always recommended that before starting anything, to learn from others in those fields first. Get an internship no matter how old you are if you want to be in this business. Learn the business so you don’t fall into the pitfalls people who don’t learn, do. I think that’s a lesson for life really. Be intentional. Learn. Believe.

THIS or THAT (The Fun Qs!)

Coffee or Tea? Coffee in the morning. Tea at night!

Gym or Outdoor? Gym.

Sneakers or Boots? I can’t go anywhere without my sneakers.

Running or Walking? Walking.

Cereal or Fruit? Fruit.

Movies or Books? Movies.

TV or Magazine? TV

Summer or Spring? What’s the difference? I live in L.A.

Rain or Snow? Snow

Blazer or Leather Jacket? Blazer

About Lance Brown

Lance Brown is a partner and GM at DREAM Records. Realizing at a young age the influence of music on people, and also a Christian at heart, after graduating college he stepped into the music scene as a music manager and watched some of the artists he managed soar to heights beyond what he imagined possible. Fueled by passion and this success, Lance went on to start an artist management company of his own. Roughly ten years into the entertainment business, he met Dave Hanley (founder of DREAM Records). Having a similar vision as Dave, they joined forces and together established eight labels to date with offices spanning from Honolulu to L.A. Their work has not only led to the rising of celebrated artists, but has attracted a strong alliance with movie studios as well. Lance has signed a number of great artists and upcoming that continue to be favorites on Christian music radio, thereby reshaping the culture on the Christian music scene, and the entertainment industry at large. Learn more about DREAM Records Group here.

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Published on February 01, 2018 22:00

DOVE. ORG FOUNDER, DICK ROLFE, JOINS ‘THE FARMER AND THE BELLE TEAM.’

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New York, NY (January, 2018) – The #2Actors production team of Jenn Gotzon Chandler (Oscar-nominated “Frost/Nixon”) and Jim E. Chandler (“Stranger Things”) is thrilled to announce the addition of Dick Rolfe of rolfeconsulting.com as their newest team member. Rolfe has joined to assist them in networking for financial partnerships in production and distribution for “The Farmer and The Belle.”

“Dick’s expertise, faith and public relations serve our movie franchise with a unique approach as our producer’s rep,” Gotzon Chandler states.

A veteran of the media and entertainment industry for over 25 years, founder and former CEO of The Dove Foundation, Rolfe is a highly sought-after resource for networking and brand marketing. Now Rolfe is uniting his thousands of media contacts with his extensive experience in film, television, publishing, and digital media to aid professionals in taking their businesses to the next level.

“The film’s story reflects the best of human nature and how we should all relate to the true meaning of Christmas. It appeals to me because its focus on family and faith is right at the center of my mission,” Rolfe shares. “There’s a shortage of clean comedy in entertainment, and this movie will scratch that itch to laugh out loud without embarrassment. I can envision it becoming a perennial family favorite every Christmas.”

Husband and wife team Jenn Gotzon Chandler and Jim E. Chandler are developing a franchise featuring movies, books and games based on the hilarious adventures of a paranoid supermodel and a proverbial “farmer in the dell.” The script is loosely based on the couple’s own fairytale love story with an inspirational theme. Their goal is to provide a legacy of faith through the Christmas message, inspiring audiences to find real love, their worth, and newfound traditions to be enjoyed by the family for generations.

Visit the official website of the family Christmas comedy movie, The Farmer and The Belle, at

Official Website | Facebook | Contact | Social Media: @TheFarmerandTheBelle.ChristmasComedyMovie | Hashtags: #TheFarmerAndTheBelle #ChristmasComedyMovie #RealLove

For details on the film’s status or proprietary platform partnerships, contact producer, Joel Bunkowske (award-winning entertainment attorney). Also produced by Isaac Hernandez (Parables TV), The Farmer and The Belle is planned to reach national television audiences Thanksgiving 2018.

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Published on January 30, 2018 21:00

Website Review ~ Christian Quotes

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Album Review ~ Alpenglow By Cameron Moore

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NEWS ~ DREAM Label Signs Norwegian Electronic Worship Group, Radiate Worship

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Los Angeles, CA (January, 2018) — Norwegian Electronic Worship team, Radiate Worship has signed with DREAM Label Group’s worship division, DREAM Worship (Life.Church Worship, NewSpring Worship, New Hope Oahu). Lead by Pastor Martin Midtgård Hagen, the worship ministry of Radiate Church started in 2008, focusing on it’s fresh expression of groundbreaking worship.

“We’re excited to sign this agreement with DREAM and are looking forward to see what the time ahead will bring. We hope our music will reach further than ever before, and that God will continue to work in the lives of everyone who’ll tune in and listen to it!” – Radiate Worship

“When I heard their song, Trust, I was immediately hooked on them. Their fresh approach to worship and their heart for sharing Christ with their country is so incredible, I wanted to sign them immediately,” said DREAM Label Group GM, Lance Brown. “DREAM has prided itself on providing music that makes the listener feel joyous and energetic, and this group will do that for you when you hear them.”

The group went into the studio with producer, David Ramirez from Gnome Studios, to record their next single, Victorious, which will be released on DREAM in the coming months.

For more information about Radiate Worship:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

About Radiate Worship

Radiate Worship is a Christian worship band from Bergen, Norway. The members of the group came together through the youth ministry in their local church, and the church itself released their first three album releases independently. Radiate Worship has always aspired to uncover new ground in their style of music, and tries to write songs that utilize musical elements that might not be too common in typical worship music.

After a change of focus, not only to write songs in Norwegian for a national distribution, but opening up to expanding their international contact network and both writing and communicating more in English, they came in tough with producer, David O. Ramirez from Gnome Studios, who came on as producer for their next full album project. This led to the first single from the upcoming album, Trust, which caught the attention of Dream Label Group.

“Radiate worship aims to create music that inspires and engages both those who believe, and those who still don’t,” says lead singer, Martin Midgård Hagen.

[image error]About DREAM Label Group

DREAM provides artists with a genuine approach to how real artist development should be done. By allowing for a partnership as a business model, DREAM artists empower themselves to develop and carry out a real vision for their lives as they affect other people’s lives with their music and message. Incorporating social media, press, radio and touring, DREAM is helping its artists grow together as a family. DREAM was founded in 2008 and has grown to 17 different divisions comprised of multiple labels, merchandise, apparel, mobile, publishing and film.

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Published on January 15, 2018 22:00