In this episode, Will Hickl shares his journey of intertwining contemporary music with his faith journey. Growing up surrounded by music, Hickl's passion for it flourished during university, where he not only learned the piano but also started leading worship. He seamlessly integrates electronic elements like synthesizers and drum machines into his Christian worship music, aiming to create a unique blend of reverence and innovation.

Will Hickl, a multi-talented individual, is a husband, father, worship leader, producer, and software professional with certifications as a Project Management Professional (PMP)® and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. Through his band Novum, Hickl channels his inspiration from the new evangelization, bridging the gap between traditional hymns and modern worship music, ultimately founding Novum Collective to further explore alternative rock and worship fusion.

Hickl's approach to songwriting is deeply intuitive, drawing inspiration from diverse sources like scripture, personal experiences, and even random moments of insight. His music creation process is characterized by spontaneity, reflecting a deep commitment to glorifying God through his artistry. With the support of his family, including his wife and son, Hickl sees his music not just as a personal endeavor but also as a calling, believing that through his craft, he can evangelize and uplift others on their spiritual journeys.

Episode Breakdown:

• 02:35 - Integrating Electronic Elements into Worship Music
• 04:14 - Formation of Band Novum and Transition to Alternative Rock
• 05:19 - Collaborative Songwriting Process and Sharing Inspirations
• 08:16 - Inspirational Themes in Worship Music Creation
• 10:23 - Use of Diverse Sonic Palettes in Worship Music
• 13:16 - Theme of Faithfulness in Worship Music
• 17:30 - Creative Process Behind Worship Music Production
• 18:37 - Purpose of Worship Music and Evangelization
• 20:36 - Calling to Worship Leadership and Music Ministry
• 21:14 - Pursuit of Excellence in Music for God's Glory

Songs:

• You Never Let Me Go
• You Are Here

Ever wonder what it takes to be a Christian music artist in a world that is engrossed in secular music? The life of a Christian music artist is one of excitement, fear, joy, and challenges. Here is a peek into the life, faith, and music of Will Hickl.

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Will Hickl: https://www.willhickl.com/

Abraham Salas delivers a compelling message of resilience and divine purpose. Throughout the episode, Salas articulates the profound belief that irrespective of life's challenges, individuals remain vessels through which God's work manifests. He emphasizes the enduring presence of a higher power and its active involvement in shaping human lives, urging listeners to maintain faith and trust in this guiding force.

Abraham Salas has spent the last seven years dedicated to serving the Church as a Worship Leader, Recording Artist, and Speaker. His primary goal is to facilitate encounters with God through prayer while infusing elements of joy and enjoyment into the experience. Originally from Houston, Texas, he relocated to Dallas for two years before returning to his hometown to pursue a life centered on holiness and evangelization alongside his wife. In addition to his ministry work, Salas is the founder of Life & Lens Media, a media company aimed at assisting brands and individuals in sharing compelling stories with their audiences.

Drawing from personal experiences and spiritual insights, Salas illuminates the power of faith and perseverance. His anecdotes serve to illustrate the universal nature of struggles and the potential for growth and purpose amidst adversity. By intertwining spirituality with themes of empowerment and resilience, Salas inspires listeners to embrace their journey with renewed hope and conviction, recognizing their inherent worth and significance in the grand tapestry of existence.

Episode Breakdown:

• 01:03 - Early Influences and Faith Journey
• 03:21 - Musical Inspiration and Family Influence
• 06:01 - Writing "Let It All Out" during Father's Hospitalization
• 09:14 - Finding Strength in Faith during Crisis
• 11:58 - Resilience and Trust in God
• 13:17 - Prayer and Miracles during Music Performances
• 17:17 - Balancing Faith and Music Industry Challenges
• 19:06 - The Joy of Collective Worship
• 22:29 - Prioritizing Impact Over Fame

Songs:

• Confirmation Retreat
• I'll Praise Your Name
• Declare
• Every Feeling in Your Love
• Keep Going

Ever wonder what it takes to be a Christian music artist in a world that is engrossed in secular music? The life of a Christian music artist is one of excitement, fear, joy, and challenges. Here is a peek into the life, faith, and music of Abraham Salas.

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

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Abraham Salas:https://www.theabrahamsalas.com/

Meet Matt Lewis, a dedicated worship leader and elementary music teacher based in Houston, Texas. With a passion for music and a deep connection to his faith, Matt's journey has been a blend of personal reflection, growth, and spiritual exploration.

In this episode, Matt shares his love for music from a young age, recalling how he first fell in love with playing instruments and later discovered a deeper connection to God through worship music. He discusses the evolution of his songwriting process, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and relatability in conveying messages of hope and faith. Matt also reflects on how music has played a central role in his spiritual journey, helping him connect with others and deepen his understanding of his purpose as a musician and a faithful Catholic.

Episode Breakdown:

• 00:42 - Journey with Music and Faith
• 04:56 - Songwriting Process and Themes
• 10:46 - Music as a Service to Faith
• 16:05 - Discovering a Purpose
• 18:00 - Hopes and Dreams for Music

Songs:

• A Thousand Empty Picture Frames

Ever wonder what it takes to be a Christian music artist in a world that is engrossed in secular music? The life of a Christian music artist is one of excitement, fear, joy, and challenges. Here is a peek into the life, faith, and music of Matt Lewis.

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

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In this episode, we meet the Frye Family Band, a musical ensemble led by Tom Frye, along with his son Jonathan, daughter-in-law Maria Renee, and drummer Eric Reynolds. Despite not being related by blood, the Frye Family Band exemplifies the true essence of family through their shared passion for music and ministry.

From humble beginnings of Tom singing his own songs to the band's evolution with the inclusion of his children and other musicians, the Frye Family Band has grown into a powerful force in both the music industry and the realm of ministry.

Through their music and performances, the Frye Family Band spreads messages of authenticity, vulnerability, and faith, touching the hearts of audiences worldwide. Their journey is not without challenges, as they navigate the ups and downs of life on the road, including unexpected setbacks like flat tires. However, their resilience and unwavering commitment to their calling shine through as they continue to embark on new ventures, such as their upcoming EP release, showcasing their diverse range of talents and heartfelt messages.

Episode Breakdown:

• 01:16 - Origin of the Band
• 03:44 - Personal Journey Into Music
• 06:38 - Impact of Family and Ministry
• 11:07 - Transition Into Ministry
• 13:45 - New Directions and New Seasons

Songs:

• Things Unseen
• Jesus is Crazy
• Cats in the Cradle
• He’s Still There

Ever wonder what it takes to be a Christian music artist in a world that is engrossed in secular music? The life of a Christian music artist is one of excitement, fear, joy, and challenges. Here is a peek into the life, faith, and music of the Frye Family Band.

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

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Frye Family Band: https://fryefamilyband.com/

Winston Cadenas, a musician, shares his journey from early experiences on the piano to finding his niche in acoustic praise and worship music. He recounts how his passion for music evolved from childhood aspirations of pop stardom to a deeper desire to share personal experiences through songwriting. Cadenas discusses the intersection of his faith with his music, highlighting how he integrates Catholic themes and messages into his songs to reach a diverse audience. He emphasizes the importance of using his musical talents as a tool for evangelization, aiming to connect with people who may be hesitant about their faith through relatable and uplifting music.

Throughout the episode, Cadenas reflects on the role of music in prayer and spiritual life, describing how it creates a space for the Holy Spirit to move within the hearts of listeners. He encourages aspiring musicians to step out in faith and use their talents for the greater purpose of glorifying God. By sharing personal anecdotes and insights, Cadenas offers a deeper look into his musical journey, demonstrating how faith and music intertwine to inspire and uplift others.

Episode Breakdown:

• 01:07 - Early Experiences with Music
• 02:20 - Evolution of His Style
• 04:06 - Integration of Faith into His Music
• 08:56 - Themes in His Music
• 12:13 - Genres within the Christian Music Realm
• 16:58 - Worship Music and Reflection
• 19:27 - For the Greater Glory of God
• 21:16 - Music in Prayer

Songs:

• Coffee Song
• It’s Gonna Get Better
• Sunday Afternoon
• You are Seen

Ever wonder what it takes to be a Christian music artist in a world that is engrossed in secular music? The life of a Christian music artist is one of excitement, fear, joy, and challenges. Here is a peek into the life, faith, and music of Winston Cadenas.

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

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Carmen Mills, a contemporary Christian rock artist, shares her deeply personal journey of resilience and faith through music. Originally from San Jose, Costa Rica, Carmen recounts her traumatic early years, including being abandoned by her biological mother and subsequently adopted by an American veteran. Despite facing adversity, including struggles with depression and anxiety, Carmen found solace and purpose in music from a young age. 

Her songs reflect her raw honesty about her inner battles while also offering hope and encouragement to others who may be going through similar challenges. Through her music, Carmen emphasizes the importance of authenticity in faith, believing that it's essential for Christians to be able to acknowledge and share their struggles openly. She sees her music as a ministry, aiming to reach people with messages of hope and faith, even in unconventional settings such as prisons, where she has witnessed the transformative power of music firsthand.

Episode Breakdown:

• 01:07 - Early Life and Adoption
• 03:30 - Struggles with Depression and Anxiety
• 05:51 - Music as a Ministry
• 07:51 - Embracing Imperfection and Finding Purpose
• 10:03 - Songwriting Process and Inspirations
• 13:49 - Challenges and Rewards of Being a Christian Artist
• 16:10 - Message of Hope and Resilience
• 18:51 – God’s Guidance and Providence

Songs:

• I Look to You
• How Many Times
• You're Everything to Me
• Rescued Me

Ever wonder what it takes to be a Christian music artist in a world that is engrossed in secular music? The life of a Christian music artist is one of excitement, fear, joy, and challenges. Here is a peek into the life, faith, and music of Carmen Mills.

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

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Canadian musician Joe Zambon shares his profound journey of using music as a powerful expression of the Catholic faith. Zambon emphasizes that being Catholic through music is not limited to worship but extends to elevating and moving individuals by addressing real-life experiences. He discusses the integral role of his parents in shaping his faith and the early connection he made between music and healing during a childhood surgery, illustrating his deep personal relationship with God through his musical talents. Zambon's narrative revolves around the transformative power of music, viewing it as a gift for both ministering to others and experiencing personal healing, and he encourages Christians to explore and express their faith authentically through the medium of music.

Joe Zambon reflects on the Catholic identity in his music, advocating for a candid exploration of real-world issues by Christians. He emphasizes the need for artists, especially Catholic musicians, to delve into the depths of human experiences and convey vulnerability in their work. The musician's passion for healing and reconciliation is evident as he discusses the role of messengers in inviting people back to God's love, highlighting the potential for God's light to shine through personal wounds. Zambon concludes by expressing his hope to continue using music as a medium for storytelling, sharing his faith, and bringing people together for prayer, ultimately aiming to facilitate encounters with God and contribute to the beauty of the Church.

Episode Breakdown:

• 02:34 - Musical Journey and Healing 
• 05:46 - Catholic Identity in Music 
• 08:06 - Healing and Reconciliation 
• 11:52 - Impact and Purpose of Music 
• 16:13 - Quiet Stillness and Prayer 
• 19:42 - The Beauty of Art 

Songs:

• Love Is
• Coming Home
• You Are I Am
• There and Here

Ever wonder what it takes to be a Christian music artist in a world that is engrossed in secular music? The life of a Christian music artist is one of excitement, fear, joy, and challenges. Here is a peek into the life, faith, and music of Joe Zambon.

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

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Mike Mangione, a talented singer-songwriter, shares his musical journey and the profound spiritual connection he has found through his music. Growing up in Chicago, Mike was the youngest of three brothers and frequently engaged in sibling scuffles. Recognizing the need for a creative outlet, Mike's mother introduced him to drums, redirecting his energy towards music instead of conflict. As he progressed, he discovered his passion for songwriting and found inspiration in artists like Bob Dylan and Bob Marley who used their music to create an atmosphere that transcended individual experiences.

Mike's transition to playing the guitar and songwriting became a pivotal moment in his life. He described music as a form of prayer, allowing him to authentically connect with both his audience and God. Through his music, he believes in creating a sense of common union and facilitating communication with the Creator. Mike sees his role as an artist as a profound responsibility to share his deep connection to the Creator and to encourage people to build bridges instead of walls in their interactions with others. He views his music as a means of bringing people together and leading them on a spiritual journey, showcasing the power of art to connect individuals and convey profound messages.

Episode Breakdown:

• 02:03 – Early Experiences
• 04:03 – Music is a Form of Prayer
• 05:24 – Connection with the Creator
• 06:41 – Themes in His Americana Music
• 07:25 – Dualities of Human Existence
• 09:07 – Inspiration from Mother Mary
• 13:26 – Moment in Philadelphia and Spain
• 18:11 – Calling as a Musician
• 19:09 – Influence of St. John Paul II on Artists
• 20:33 – Goals, Hopes and Dreams

Songs:

• Frozen Rivers
• Three Days
• Anastasia
• Beyond This Hollow Ground

Ever wonder what it takes to be a Christian music artist in a world that is engrossed in secular music? The life of a Christian music artist is one of excitement, fear, joy, and challenges. Here is a peek into the life, faith, and music of Mike Mangione.

Shalom World: https://www.shalomworld.org

Support us: https://shalomworld.org/donate

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalomworldpodcasts/ 

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Mike Mangione: https://www.mikemangione.com/