December 2004

When did you know you wanted to be a musician?
It was more like I just always knew I never wanted to be anything else! There was a period of time when I was entertaining the notion of becoming a forensic anthropologist... but that was short-lived. That was also around the time I decided my children were going to be named Navajo Azure and Malanian Jack. I was 13 and fickle. (My children will most certainly not be called that!)

What do you think has been the key to your success?
I suppose just a consistent attempt to make wise decisions, even when they're scary or don't feel good! I believe everything that has happened in my life thus far is part of a divine plan, and my part consists of remembering that and living accordingly. It's a grand adventure!

And the religious aspect? You've been key in bringing Christian music into the mainstream, how do you feel about this?
Hmm... Yes I am a Christian working in the mainstream, and there are many more breaking through around the world, but at this stage of life I wouldn't say I'm making 'Christian music'. I suppose I see Christian music as being targeted at a Christian audience, and the songs I write are not targeted toward any particular group... they're for everyone, all people. And that's very important to me... that it's 'inclusive' music, not 'exclusive'.

When did you become Christian? How do you see your religion?
I became a Christian when I was 15, and it has changed my life from the core out. I'm not the same person I was, in the best possible way! It's a daily decision, a life-giving reality and an unshakeable hope and assurance. It's pretty friggin' great to do life fully alive!

What do you think of the statement by Rip It Up magazine that Christianity is killing our music?
I'd have to read it to grasp the context of the quote, but at first glance it seems pretty unfounded... I'd challenge anyone to sit in a black gospel church in inner city Harlem when the choir's going nuts, and then tell me if that music sounds like the dyin' kind. Glory!

Is it hard to stay true to your beliefs in the industry that you work in with all the sex, drugs and rock'n'roll?
Everyone struggles with different things, and for me it's not the 'rock'n'roll lifestyle' it's other stuff like laziness or pride. Of course there are host of different challenges that come with the territory, which is why I have an amazing, solid support network of people.

I have heard that when you are recording the people watching you comment that it is something magical ? How do you feel when you play?
Geez, who said that? I'll have to get their bribe money to them (just kidding!) When I'm playing music, it feels like the truest, most natural, right thing in the world. I almost feel like I'm most myself when I'm doing it. I love it, I love it, I love it.

What do you think of the state of NZ music at the moment?
It's pretty exciting. I think I've started doin' this thing at a pretty special time, and it feels wonderful to be a part of the shift into the next gear.

You're a very inspirational person ? Who inspires you and why?
Shucks! Cheers! I'm inspired by a lot of people. I'm inspired by great authors like C.S. Lewis and St. Paul. I'm inspired by my friend Mel, who lives in the room next door to me and has the best laugh in the whole world. She works with young people every day and has this knack of making the most traumatised, messed up kid feel like they're special and cared about... that inspires me.

What's one piece of advice you have learnt through your life that you think would be good for nzgirls to know?
What I've learnt... that you are custom-made and worth more than you can comprehend and that it's possible to be truly free.

Who's your favourite designer?
Uuummmmm.... so many! At the mo I've been buying up Ricochet, Kate Sylvester and some Karen Walker and Ruby too!

What's your favourite thing to do by yourself?
Drive in my car with the stereo cranking, singing loudly and stupidly.

What's in your handbag?
Carmex ointment (hardcore lipbalm), cellphone, wallet, makeup purse, pen(s), notebook.

Who's your favourite musician?
Joni Mitchell is the first that comes to mind.

What's the last book you read?
I always have about three on the go at once and more in the queue. I LOVE reading! The one I'm closest to finishing at the moment is "The Screwtape Letters" by C.S. Lewis.

When's your birthday?
December 15th. I'll be 21. Be assured I'll be having a paaaaaarr-taaaaay!

B*