C. J. Murray Podcast

Episode #32Alyssa's story of trusting God with her shoulder and carrying on with violin is absolutely incredible, and I hope you're as inspired as I was. Also I go into a rare condition I have, which I've never shared publicly. Please enjoy this episode!CHAPTERS0:00-Intro0:43-Getting into music3:33-Violin over piano4:13-Career trajectory6:20-Challenges with violin9:10-Performing variations12:00-Group performance dynamic15:00-Shoulder injury/story22:50-Discussing spiritual nuances throughout26:27-Big picture thinking / Job as an example28:16-My medical condition / Lymphangiomatosis34:30-Spiritual application / dealing with the fallout36:52-Her music goals42:00-Outro

Episode #31Thank you so much for listening to this episode with Keith! I've enjoyed mixing his music, and I hope that you can glean some good insights out of this episode. Thanks!CHAPTERS0:00-Intro / his testimony7:10-Involvement of Scripture8:15-My personal salvation testimony11:42-How he got into music15:02-"Flirting" with Christianity16:40-Summer at Ellerslie18:50-My Grandpa Murray's testimony21:35-Parable of the workers / Prodigal son24:35-AI in electronic music / tipping point27:35-Humanity driven by narratives30:40-The Christian life under the blood35:15-Trusting God's plan / relating to Peter39:00-We can all fall to pride41:00-Derek Prince44:00-Outro / final thoughts

Episode #30Mark is an amazing friend and musician, and connecting with him over electronic music has been nothing but a blessing. Especially in the second half of this video, we wrangle with the tension between the possibilities of EDM and the tradition of Conservative Christian music philosophy. I've felt the tension of the debate and I hope that this episode is yet another step in the right direction.CHAPTERS0:00-Intro1:13-Story of growth in God and music4:45-Taking initiative / intro to electronic music8:50-Curation of family music standards15:40-Functionality of electronic music20:35-Stigma of electronic music being oversimplified23:43-The potential of the DAW / AI in the DAW28:50-The place for AI / human attention span / Epic39:50-Human need for stories / God's image in us / Ecclesiastes46:20-Electronic music vs. conservative Christian values (an intro)50:15-Romans 14 / association / loving your fellow Christian55:20-On separating worldly and unworldly / defining worldly1:05:12-James 3 / music relating to contexts of Scripture1:11:30-Music is like food1:14:11-Every genre has strengths and weaknesses / EDM / CCM1:18:20-"Beats are wrong" "The beat is too loud"1:23:35-In context of worship in the church1:28:44-Releasing music / philosophy / my approach to electronic music 1:33:50-On other people's conscience and offending others1:37:15-Theological bottom line1:42:00-Outro / podcast goal / debate bottom line

Episode #28Isaiah is a young, powerhouse, prolific violinist and composer who has high standards and deep thoughts. This was a lengthy episode, so for your context, the first hour breaks down his work, and the second hour dives into some broader philosophy, so you can do with that what you will. Please enjoy!CHAPTERS0:00-Intro1:23-Since the last episode (concerts/opportunities)2:33-Composer symposium in Austin, TX9:40-"I don't like most of what I do" / writing peaks13:10-Writing music using expectations / prolificacy17:55-Reminiscence / Evening With the Composers1:00:40-Book of Job / love / brokenness / sacrifice1:05:45-On Job's friends / spiritual warfare1:09:10-Connecting Job's story to music1:14:00-God using opportunities / outcomes / motivations1:20:00-God's omniscience / The Gospel1:28:20-Connection to musicianship / modern music industry / prayer1:33:45-Writing "new" music / conveying beauty / contrast1:37:40-True beauty / interestingness1:44:27-No one will say your message like you1:49:25-A rebuttal of only beautiful music matters1:54:40-Truth, beauty, "good music", benefits of genres1:58:33-Isaiah's example2:03:33-Outro

Episode #27Megan's passion for singing and acting is contagious. She's got a ton of life and joy in what she does and this conversation talking through Sound of Music, Sight and Sound, and her story as a whole was so enjoyable to have. I hope you enjoy as well! Thank you for listening!CHAPTERS0:00-Intro0:45-Sound of Music (story of getting into music)6:22-Receiving confidence from others8:00-Working on Sound of Music9:55-Style/tone shift of Maria's character12:36-Growth as a musician (stamina)15:35-Final thoughts on Sound of Music (don't give up)18:00-Chasing your dreams19:27-On the "Plan B route"21:45-Out of body acting experience23:27-Support systems25:08-Adoption story29:00-Music's impact / Broadway / Sight and Sound39:33-Sight and Sound culture / connections42:28-Hiring advice 46:08-Graduation, masters, and beyond50:10-Outro

Episode #26Paul is a phenomenal operatic singer who came to America when he was 12. His thoughts of the genre as a whole and his transition between styles was a fascinating conversation and I hope you enjoy it as well!CHAPTERS0:00-Intro0:30-How we met / acting3:28-His story13:40-Embassy to America17:30-Getting serious about music25:10-Transition from pop/emo/rap to classical27:45-Listening to operatic / Gospel music in the gym32:14-Progression of old music to future styles of sacred / music taste standards38:50-Musical style equals attitude42:10-Operatic genre and its progression46:40-AI isn't eternal / souls are52:02-Story Behind "It Is Well" and its continued impact53:55-Doctorate and beyond / hindsight56:28-Outro

Episode #23Ethan is one of my best friends and this conversation was a long time coming. In this episode, there are many memories and points I hope to never forget, and I'm grateful our words can be immortalized here. :) Thank you, and enjoy!CHAPTERS0:00-Intro0:20-Ethan’s story seeking God8:15-Music philosophy connections10:50-Shared history14:40-Prayer memory16:55-Other memories18:55-Ramifications of seeking God21:15-Heartache and comfort from God24:40-Doubts about trusting God (story)26:50-Assurance through answered prayers28:20-Two keys to our spiritual growth29:40-Illustration of a Gospel life perspective32:20-The buildup of the discipline of prayer34:40-Waking up early to be with God37:45-Ethan’s focus spending time with God42:40-How God receives the most glory44:00-Failed attempt to end the conversation44:50-Music philosophy and social media48:15-Outro

Episode #22Enjoy this conversation with Estevão Gonçalves! 10/10 convo. His perspective on growth in skill and having a correct mindset toward God is incredible and I hope it is a blessing to you.CHAPTERS0:00-Intro0:15-The level it takes to be happy with an instrument1:15-Getting serious about singing4:50-Fulfillment in doing music10:07-Music style distinctions in church services14:45-On the vocal style, "crooning"16:33-The context of the body of Christ22:55-Worship between generations29:07-Individuality related to the gift of music33:10-Brazilian who lost his singing voice34:50-God gave us all we have36:20-Motivation in glorifying God43:05-An example of leveled motivation47:00-Being relaxed during performance52:30-The work behind musicianship53:00-Obsessing over your craft58:00-Prioritizing God1:04:40-God’s gifts to His children1:06:45-Outro

Episode #21Christian and I talk about how he got into music, using our gifts for God, and his health journey. I hope you enjoy this episode, and if you're a musician and want to come on this podcast to share your story, feel free to email me at cjmurraymusic@gmail.com.CHAPTERS0:00-Intro0:22-Getting into music3:10-Going into speech therapy10:35-Peak music moments14:35-On opening gifts from God15:40-Intentionality in church services19:10-All Christians under the blood21:12-To those needing to commit to their gifts23:30-Health journey34:00-Options on the future36:30-Potential of being young37:40-Cryptocurrency tangent and investing39:25-Compound interest of investing in people44:12-Faithful are the wounds of a friend45:00-Future process of this podcast47:40-Outro

Episode #25The controversy of this topic can be felt among many circles regardless of which side you land on. I felt this conversation was an immense blessing with a fantastic end goal of how the church can still rally around the Gospel and Jesus Christ. I couldn't have spoken with anyone better than Serge as a friend, as a musician, and as a representative of certain lines of thought. I hope you enjoy this episode and walk away with some solid takeaways!CHAPTERS0:00-Intro1:10-Serge, his music, and philosophy intro7:55-Mutual history8:35-“Nothing New”12:45-Writing process / variety of subject matter17:05-Being labeled / categorizing / exploring19:35-The divide between sacred and secular23:03-Branding25:15-Secular to sacred and vice versa28:28-Artists leaving the faith31:25-Sacred and secular (an intro)36:52-Redemption of certain contexts40:10-History of Christian Hip-Hop44:00-Common grace / universal innovation49:00-Association / separation debate57:20-Conscience and music59:45-Denomination hot-take1:02:35-Unification within the church1:06:20-Energy of non-traditional music1:08:50-Music is like food1:10:35-Concern for fellow Christians1:11:30-Outro / final thoughts / music plug

Episode #24I loved digging into Josiah's experience and getting to know his perspective on vocal technique. I hope you enjoy this episode!CHAPTERS0:00-Intro0:34-Story of getting into music7:48-Switching major nuances9:40-Growing in music / singing technique14:05-The value of specializing17:20-Becoming a tenor19:20-Nitty gritty of singing technique21:03-Singers are athletes (in a sense)23:00-Handling practicing lows24:30-Recording behind a mic vs. singing live30:00-Pros of classical vocal technique32:15-Venturing into other genres’ vocal styles35:50-Open throat in a breathy singing style38:40-Technique of singing “forward”39:50-The work that goes into effective expression41:00-"Budgeting” vocal health47:20-Emotional effect of singing in various genres56:30-The different feel of different genres58:50-Editing vocals1:01:40-Outro

Episode #20Ben Everson is an evangelist/musician whose purpose is to encourage God's people via music and preaching. This conversation felt very real, genuine, and insightful into another way of looking at music as a whole and our approach to it. I'm very grateful he was willing to be a guest on this podcast and I look forward to having him on again in the future.LINKSPlease check out his website and music at https://beneverson.com

Episode #19Marshall Teague has an extremely diverse portfolio in his acting career from Roadhouse, to Walker Texas Ranger, to other familiar action movies, as well sci-fi and meaningful dramas. It was a privilege to dive into his mind and experiences to glean from his wealth of knowledge.CHAPTERS0:00 - Intro0:37 - History4:23 - Becoming characters and going home8:06 - Actors as co-workers and inspirational actors9:36 - On Denzel Washington10:41 - On actors going viral for anger on set12:13 - Improvements in the craft13:42 - Don't act — become16:53 - On actors portraying real people and true stories18:51 - Most challenging character to become22:09 - Acting in film versus stage plays24:04 - Acting for television26:48 - On sustainably being in acting for so long29:02 - Pushback on being an actor32:17 - Screen acting versus voice acting35:41 - Original Roadhouse versus Amazon Prime's43:04 - On saying no to people44:00 - Faith in the music industry46:16 - On being hit by a helicopter47:52 - Most interesting locations52:40 - Marriage advice to newly weds56:12 - Outro

Episode #18Dave Russell is the lead graphic at OtterBox and has served exclusive graphics to clients such as Target, AT&T, Verizon, Real Tree, NFL, Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Lucas Film. He also has a passion project on YouTube and Instagram as a custom toy creator. This was an inspiring conversation and the bottom line is to know your gifts and calling from God, work really hard at them, and don't give up on what you're passionate about. Just show up and do what you do best.TOPICSGraphic design, creativity, work ethic, and following God's callingLINKShttps://www.youtube.com/@UCC9D_x_vTIaWrtO6Nb07ARwhttps://www.instagram.com/dr._toys/

Episode #17Rachel Williams is a film/video game composer who loves the Lord, and I hope this episode encourages you to keep seeking Him as you pursue your dreams!

Episode #16An incredible testimony! Please check out her music by looking up Eliana Shannon.CHAPTERS0:00 - Intro1:00 - OCD vs. misconceptions, having OCD as a Christian7:20 - When God’s answer is no10:03 - Overcoming through music14:23 - Letting friends in on the struggle17:10 - Spiritual warfare while creating music19:30 - Commentary on her release music23:00 - The only solution is the Word of God, King David24:50 - God’s grace, eternal security, salvation28:18 - Works based salvation vs. works based favor31:10 - King Hezekiah illustration of God’s power / faith34:10 - EP music connecting first two songs37:18 - Jesus gentle and lowly / prayer closet story41:10 - Jordan Peterson on potential, God’s eternal presence45:00 - Level deeper on the Gospel45:43 - EP to full album49:40 - Potential of Eliana’s testimony51:16 - OCD during school53:22 - Questions about the future56:35 - The joy of collaboration58:57 - Final encouragement1:00:50 - Outro

Episode #15Jonathan Ivey is a man of many hats that spins many plates, but deeper than that he is a man that wants to serve God and serve others. As he grows he helps others to grow with him. We talk about entrepreneurship, leadership, writing Biblical music, and ultimately, help answer the question, "How do we maximize our effectiveness in serving God?"LINKShttps://www.instagram.com/jonathanivey/https://www.instagram.com/pureaudiorecordingstudio/https://www.instagram.com/easthillmusic/https://www.instagram.com/drinkpensacolaofficial/https://www.easthillmusic.comhttps://www.easthillmusic.com/pure-audio-recording-studiohttps://www.instagram.com/christianmensnetworking/https://open.spotify.com/show/6OWBwAmJ08WPfjFXPnFCpu?si=fb5af3a303c94431 (PODCAST)CHAPTERS0:00 Intro0:50 Resume / building drive / diversifying6:10 Growth in leadership10:10 Microhabits / routines15:23 God and organization / multitasking20:40 Community help / moving on27:25 Church functionality / unity and division31:01 The Ellerslie experiment / denominations35:00 Biblical songwriting / touring39:21 Distinct music purposes42:00 Music industry transition / investing in people44:27 Being people of conviction50:22 Final word / pushing limits / investing in God’s kingdom52:28 Outro

Episode #14Olivia and I met when during college I heard her performing a song she wrote called, "The Love of Christ." I found her afterwards and mentioned I'd love to produce that song! It's now out on Spotify under Olivia Wentworth. This conversation was such a blessing as it felt relatable personally, as well as encouraging for anyone who does music as a hobby but hopes to eventually turn it into something more. Cheers to the long game of slowly but surely!Her Links:@wentworth.music/@wentworth9247Topics: Music as a profession vs. music as a hobby, songwriting, specific prayerCHAPTERS0:00 - Intro1:00 - Life update2:30 - Music during life transition3:45 - Songwriting process6:39 - Beauty of music as a hobby9:05 - Disciplines of music as a hobby10:22 - Appeal of music as a profession12:41 - Fame vs. obscurity16:28 - Praying specifically19:15 - Time spent on skill vs. social media21:08 - Prayer for contentment and influence22:21 - Pros of delegation23:33 - Prayer for opportunities and beyond26:51 - Music vs. people27:44 - Prayer for skills34:30 - Outro

Episode #13Anna Overton is an incredible singer with a really fun personality, and in this conversation we cover from music philosophy to worship and serving God with our gifts. There's so many gold nuggets in this episode and I'm excited to share it with you guys!Topics: Worship, Music Origins, CCM Industry, Serving Using God's GiftsA few clarifications:Selmer - *24:40* - as of the release of this video is *lesbian, not transgender.Somewhere I mentioned the Psalms - they are not "all prayer" - there's variety, haha.CHAPTERS0:00 - Intro0:40 - Superpower (ministry singing)5:18 - Journey of learning genuineness8:00 - Investing in friends10:10 - Investment in the music community15:20 - Origins of music 17:50 - Contrast in art and music19:30 - Satan and music and music variation22:44 - Christian Music Industry and association30:40 - Nature of worship (if we let it be selfish)37:00 - Anxiety40:45 - Unity and group singing and control45:40 - Psalms, prayer, consequences, Christian music leaders48:30 - Knowing Biblical truths and obeying56:15 - Faith and prayer connected to direction58:50 - Spiritual life before music, service instead of judging1:02:00 - Older brother basketball illustration (humility and service)1:05:30 - Outro

Episode #1210,000 hours is what it’s said it takes to master any skill. My dad did it. After documenting a six year commitment at the age of 55, he executed and reached his life cumulative total goal of practicing guitar 10,000 hours. In this episode we explore the story, the challenges, and the results of setting out to achieve this goal, and I could not be more humbled by the example my dad has set of discipline and perseverance.minnesotaguitar.com⁠ - Please feel free to reach out to him for guitar repair or refurbishing, as well as guitar lessons!CHAPTERS0:00 - Intro0:41 - My mom's take on the goal2:29 - Connections between my dad and I4:01 - My dad and his story6:19 - Documentation of the goal9:46 - Document details15:58 - The reason / motivation17:00 - Overcoming off days18:07 - Creating his practice studio20:25 - Support from family23:27 - Challenges since covid26:13 - Stories/value behind playing guitar/piano33:22 - Chat GPT on guitar35:33 - Fresh start37:11 - French polish guitar journey/business41:40 - For anyone starting or continuing an instrument43:58 - Outro / episode goal