Hi Rich fans,
Just a quick note on the happenings in Nashville last week.
The first item of note was at the Sunday night worship service. Rich played "Awesome God" and got a very long standing ovation. Bob Michaels, program director for Light 99 FM , said that it was almost as if everyone was so glad to see Rich, that they just wanted to say how much they love him. He also expressed how bummed he was that Rich lost again, and mentioned that even though he (as I) really like Micheal W Smith's music, it was interesting that someone who didn't write exclusively all his own stuff, won the songwriting award. (Note: On his album for '96, I'll Lead You Home, there wasn't a single song written by himself, most being co-written by Wayne Kirkpatrick). Even though, IMHO, this year wasn't one of Rich's strongest songwriting years, Bob and I agreed that Rich deserved the award anyway. Oh well.
At least he got his due respect at the Rich Mullins Roast at the new (but not quite open to the public yet) Caffe Milano in downtown Nashville (the older one being out in Franklin I think?). Several artists performed Rich's tunes, and there was very little "roasting". The tribute was to celebrate Rich's 10 years in the CCM biz. Some of the artists performing were Carolyn Arends, Phil Keaggy, Jimmy A, Rick Elias, Third Day, and Ashley Cleveland. DC Talk's Kevin Smith also got up to do a poem in tribute to Rich. Rich closed by doing "Elijah", which is going to be on the greatest hits.
Speaking of the greatest hits, Brendt Waters interviewed Rich for an upcoming issue of TLeM (THE LIGHTHOUSE electronic MAGAZINE), and found out that the two volume greatist hits idea has been dropped. There will only be one volume, and it is due in June. I'll let you know when I get a date, also when to watch for the Brendt's interview. Also there will only be one new tune ("We Are Not As Strong"). Let's continue to send in those Top 20 favs anyway. I've had great response so far.
God Bless.
P.S. I just had an awesome weekend in Kansas City at Promise Keepers. God is moving in a BIG way, and I for one am ready for revival!