The Music
I can't read music, I wish I could, but it has never stopped me from coming up with my own tunes. My tunes are simple and my style is very much acoustic. Growing up I enjoyed listening to Simon and Garfunkell and found their harmonies amazing. But my writing definitely changed when I was introduced to Julie Miller and Kevin Prosch. 'Meet Julie Miller', her debut album (1990) is by far my favourite followed by 'He walks through walls'. Kevin Prosch's album 'Come to the Light' (1993) I would say had the most impact on me. They both inspired me to write better and to write differently. I don't really have a favourite Christian artist, I just enjoy listening to songs that speaks about God. Take a look at the Christian music page for a list of all my favourite songs.
The Instrument
My old faithful...a Seagull S6 cedar that I have had for many years. It is a lovely instrument. It has a good sound quality to it: clear and crisp. Perfectly suitable for rhythm but I find it best when finger picking.
I am no expert on guitars but I do love the sound this guitar produces.
The first time I picked up a guitar was in my teens. I attended a Christian youth club and a girl called Jenny used to play the guitar there. I remembered at the end of one meeting I asked if she could teach me a few chords. That was it. I borrowed a guitar, bought one of those chords book and practised! I basically taught myself to play. I know I can do more and have better techniques if I learn to play it properly.
The Lyrics
Most of the time I start with the tune. From there I write about things that have been on my mind and what I was going through. Sometimes I have a phrase or a verse I have read from the Bible and I would write around it. I find it easier that way and it flows naturally from within.