Jonathan's Favorites

Favorite Music

I have been influenced by many different musicians over the years. I think I most recently identify with music that speaks to the heart and deals with the very real, often unmentioned struggles in life. One of my favorite current songs is "Slow Fade" by Casting Crowns, as I founded a national sexual purity ministry and I resonate with those artists who desire to speak the truth to those trapped in the darkness of lust.

The following are the musical influences of my youth (in the order of their impact):

U2
Keith Green
Wayne Watson
Glenn Kaiser of the Rez Band
Michael W. Smith

As I got older, these were the artists that began to shape my musical style (in order of their impact):

Rich Mullins
Eagles (always wished I could sing like Don Henley)
Led Zepplin (don't stone me . . . .)

My favorite worship leader (currently) is Matt Redman. His authenticity in worship is truly disarming and opens doors for people to express their love for God without barriers of self-consciousness. Also, I like the way he writes songs that grip the heart and magnify the glory and beauty of God, always with the effect of altering the posture of the saints to that of face down.

All Time Favorite Female Singer: Tie between Celine Dion and Ann Wilson
All Time Favorite Male Singer: Bono
Favorite Song Writer: Rich Mullins