Backstage with “Newsboys” Guitarist Paul Colman
All I can say is WOW. I mentioned this on the radio today, that I have been backstage, partied, hung out etc., with several of my favorite rock and roll bands from the 80s and early 90s, I know what goes on. I still listen to a few of those groups (please cut me some slack), especially on long road trips going to get sponsors, but it is like a breath of fresh air to see the other side of this genre. I remember telling Betsy backstage, which was immaculate, what a difference. There were also three motorbikes backstage. Now if this was back in the day, what hysteria with beer cans everywhere. Okay, I digress and move on. I think you know where I’m going here…
This man gave us a full 45 minutes for the interview…15 more for side-bar sharing of stories. Unheard of. He was true to his beliefs, well versed, very knowledgeable and personable. You can see him shine when he talks about the Lord. You can see all the Newsboys like that in concert. It is fun with a loving message from Him through them. I think one of the best quotes was, “My wife married a husband, not a rock star. I need to be a major part of my family, you know, do some laundry at times”. I told Paul the Newsboys stage show reminded me of a KISS concert. He agreed. In return he said, “God has provided all of this equipment to help spread the word in this kind of fun atmosphere”. He also spoke of his misguidings and how God always brings him back to his walk. He never mentioned money or ticket sales or any referance to finance. Just that God has provided this or that.
I struggle with that concept at times in all honesty, I think we all may from time to time. I need to put more faith in HIM. Being new to all of this; through his story and all our Faith-Stories, one would have to come to a conclusion that He does take care of us. I just need to realize this concept a lot more and not think from a mind of free will. Like Paul said, it is all about trust. Do we trust ourselves, or God? I will keep working on that!
To make this come full circle, we ended the interview with a hug, not a shot. We parted with smiles and prayers, not a high five and a firm hand shake looking for the next party. Part one of the story is up, mostly about the group. Part two is now out about his faith journey. Faith-stories.com is featured on the Newsboys website in the chat area about these interviews. Add your comments!
Thanks for reading…
Ken Q.
PS-I told Paul I loved Stryper (BIG Christian heavy metal band form the 80s) back in the day and still listen to them once in awhile. Watch this funny video Betsy found with Paul and Stryper. You can tell they are just kidding around :-)
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&VideoID=2877991
How Stryper got their name…Isaiah 53:5
“But he was wounded for our transgressions;
he was crushed for our iniquities;
upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace,
and with his Stripes we are healed.”
Beautiful Stryper song below…
