SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW WITH ERIN STEVENS OF THE STEVENS FAMILY

SOUTHERN GOSPEL SPOTLIGHT PRESENTS

AN INTERVIEW WITH ERIN STEVENS OF THE STEVENS FAMILY

There is nothing like sweet family harmony! Southern Gospel Music has many family groups one of which is the Stevens Family. This ministry minded and dynamic trio has had a successful career whoch has lasted almost 30 years! Rich and Tami along with their daughter Erin have performed to enthusiatic crowds all over the world and are truly dedicated to spreading the Gospel through song!! Erin, 20, completes the trio with her powerful voice and passion for Christ. She is talented writer (SGN Scoops) and photographer (Photos For Keeps By Erin) as well! I recently contacted her via Facebook for an interview which she gladly accepted!

Without further ado, here it is!

J. Gilmore: Hello Miss Stevens! So, how did you get your start in Southern Gospel music?

E. Stevens: After graduating Bible College, my parents got married, hit the road in music ministry, and never looked back. Nine years into their marriage, I came along and eventually helped to complete their triad. Our family is celebrating its 30th year of full-time music ministry this August.

J. Gilmore: Awesome! Who are your musical influences?

E. Stevens: When I was a little girl, Lauren Talley attained ‘hero’ status in my eyes, as our family’s styles share much in common. Years later, I had the privilege of vocal coaching with Lauren, and to this day, consider her a valued friend. Outside the SG industry, CCM artist Francesca Battistelli is someone I highly look up to. Her heart for real ministry, passion for God, and infectious desire to uplift His name through song, has impacted my life in ways I could never adequately describe. Getting the chance to meet and talk with her last summer definitely reached ultimate “Bucket List” status for me!

J. Gilmore: The Talleys are fantastic! That must have been a great experience! Who is your favorite singer in Gospel or secular music?

E. Stevens: Within the industry, Bill Shivers’ powerhouse lead vocals will always be at the top of my list of favorites. He’s the real deal - same heart on and off stage. As a secular artist, the chilling sounds of Broadway singer, Linda Eder, leave me speechless whether listening to her live or while I’m driving down the road.

J. Gilmore: Bill Shivers is incredible!! Who are your favorite groups? Past or present.

E. Stevens: To name a few… Jason Crabb, Sisters, Brian Free & Assurance & The Booth Brothers.

J. Gilmore: Great groups! Tell me about your group.

E. Stevens: Our family is based out of Warren, Ohio and has been traveling in music ministry since 1985-ministering the gospel to people of all ages through a variety of musical styles. We like to think of ourselves as a family ministering to families! My folks write most of our songs and have completed many recordings, which showcase their creative songwriting abilities. They have written songs that have been recorded by artists such as Greater Vision, The Whisnants and The Inspirations. We’ve been honored to share the platform with respected groups such as The Couriers, Karen Peck & New River, The Whisnants, Triumphant Quartet, Brian Free & Assurance, The Mark Trammell Quartet, The Talley Trio, Tribute Quartet, Sisters, The Bowling Family, The Dixie Melody Boys and Jeff & Sheri Easter. We have had opportunities to share our ministry in more than 3000 concerts in 34 states, Ontario and Quebec, Canada, as well as the West Indies and England. Each year we travel thousands of miles, crossing many denominational lines. Our music could best be described as Christ-centered and family-oriented. The purpose of our ministry is to offer encouragement and hope through the message of God’s Word in song.

J. Gilmore: Fantastic! So you do photography as well, tell me about Photos For Keeps by Erin.

E. Stevens: Throughout our travels, I have always had a camera in my hands, documenting our many adventures. When I was a teen, I came to adore the art form of photography and worked hard to develop my talents. Realizing that this was the new avenue God was leading me towards, I started honing my skills and creating my business that has been known for 4 years as Photos For Keeps By Erin. Along with running my own business, I’m also the official photographer for Abraham Productions (API). You’ll find me behind the lens at all API events, along with working behind the scenes on their social media.

J. Gilmore: Great! What has been the best part of traveling with your family?

E. Stevens: Without a doubt, it all comes down to the uniquely special bond we share. Not many can appreciate or fully understand what it’s like to work alongside their families in ministry, week in and week out. It’s a family affair, whether on stage or behind the scenes. It’s a crazy, fast moving life, but it’s my life, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

J. Gilmore: There’s nothing like the love of family! What is your favorite song to sing?

E. Stevens: ‘I’ll Serve You Forever’ written by Sandy Blythe on one of our recent recordings ‘Can’t Thank You Enough.’ It’s my solo on the CD that’s taken right from a passage found in Exodus 21. It talks about the relationship between a master and his servant. It’s a simple yet powerful message that clearly states “Lord, no matter what may come, I will serve you…forever.”

J. Gilmore: Great! What is your favorite Scripture verse?

E. Stevens: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” Proverbs 31:25

J. Gilmore: What is something that people might not know about you?

E. Stevens: Some may not know that I am a markswoman who shot competitively for 7 years. I don’t have the time I’d like anymore to shoot, but it’s a skill that will stick with me throughout life. My 21st birthday is fast approaching, so getting my concealed carry is definitely a must!

J. Gilmore: That’s interesting! What is the most memorable experience you’ve had in your years of singing Gospel music?

E. Stevens: Gospel music leaves a lasting impression that will stand the test of time. It doesn’t matter if we sing in the North, South, East or West - people are people wherever we go. Some of my fondest memories are the opportunities our family gets to sing in multi-cultural areas like NYC and Toronto, Canada. When so many races are brought together to lift up our Lord’s name, it’s just a little taste of what heaven will be like.

J. Gilmore: Gospel music truly brings people together! Any advice for aspiring Gospel artists?

E. Stevens: If God has placed a special calling on your life, don’t hold back, give Him everything you have. This isn’t as much a job as it is a life mission - to reach the lost and comfort the hurting. I know some days it’s hard, but if you give yourself completely to the avenue He has appointed to you, then nothing and no one can stand in your way to proclaim the Gospel.

J. Gilmore: What can fans expect from the group this year?

E. Stevens: We just released our brand new CD called ‘Time Rewind’ - 10 classic songs, 3 voices, 1 piano. We wanted to take 10 songs that span the generations, but with a simplified twist of no orchestration, guitars or drums; instead, just our 3 voices and my dad playing the piano. We have a busy year of touring, with many exciting happenings along the way. We will also be a part of Abraham Productions’ newest event ‘Harvest Homecoming’ in Circleville, OH on October 8-10. Check out our website schedule for a full list of concerts: stevensfamilymusic.com

J. Gilmore: That’s great!! I look forward to listening and reviewing the project! Thanks for your time! God Bless!

E. Stevens: Thanks again for asking!