For those who want to want to know more. Here is a series of interview questions presented to songwriter John Pape. Hope you enjoy these insights into the person behind the songs. So let’s get into it.
The interview
How does your faith influence your songwriting and the messages you convey in your music?
There is a very strong connection in regards to my faith and song creation. As a Christ follower every thought and decision is centered around the life and example of Jesus. The message in the songs I create is to point to God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. I want to convey that there is hope in the Gospel. That to live a godly life is one to pursue with passion. Hopefully the songs will send that message and encourage believers in the faith. For those outside of the faith and are nonbelievers the message for them is to call on the name of the Lord and find salvation.
What role do you believe music plays in spreading the message of Christianity?
Music as a medium is very powerful. The combination of words and music help bring a message to the listener. The musical part of the song will bring a person into the song. Once engaged the lyrics bring a message that point to the Christian lifestyle. In a church congregation setting, as a person listens and sings the words it provides a better connection to God.
The role of the song is to help the worshiper speak to God in adoration and praise. In today’s world there are literally thousand of different genre of music. Each genre appeals to different people in unique ways. A well crafted song in the genre of the listener can attract people though the music.
Can you talk about a specific moment or experience that inspired a song you wrote from a Christian perspective?
Sure I can talk about that. Inspiration is something that sort of hits you suddenly. There are many triggers that will create that experience. It could be a beautiful sunset or a tragic event. Inspiration can be both a positive or negative experience. For me as a songwriter, there are times where these events will turn in my mind. It could be a phrase or a thought that creates a song idea.
One event that inspired a song was a visit to a convalescent hospital. I was speak to a woman that was very ill and close to death. I ask what she wanted. Her answer was simply one word. “Satisfaction” That moment stuck with me. Then a few month later my wife was having a surgical procedure. As I was waiting the thought returned. Then I wrote regarding God ” Only you can satisfy this yearning deep inside” Which is the opening line to the song Praise and Honor. The song was further developed as I open the scripture and did a deep dive on this thought.
How do you balance writing music that is both artistically and spiritually satisfying?
That is an interesting question. Let think about that. There is a balance between artistic creativity and faith. As you know, not all art honors God. I keep that in mind when creating a song. My desire is to create art that honors God. Music is merely organized sounds. If you listen to nature it noises can be a symphony. Of course there are some in the church that downplay the use of certain instruments.
But, if you look into the scriptures there is an abundance of time musical instruments are used in worship. Both percussive as well as melodic instruments. Music is a non verbal expression that will convey emotion. On the other side there are the lyrics and this is where the message of the song is contained. Therefore it is vital that the words are in alignment with the Word of God. Now, I know that sometimes artist will push the boundaries and sometimes those ideas can cause controversy. Everyone has a opinion but in the end the question needs to be asked. Who does the song glorify? It it God or the world? And that is the balancing act of an artist.
Can you discuss a song of yours that is particularly meaningful to you from a faith perspective?
This is a difficult one to answer as nearly all of the songs have some meaningfulness in regards to faith. If I had to choose one I would start with “Cascading River of Love“. Although some of the songs like “Everlasting Light” , “God Has Come” or “Almighty Reigns” are strictly scripture songs and there is a great amount of that faith element, Cascading River of Love is more a testimonial song. It song sets the stage of a listen who is in this dry desert place.
It is a very difficult place to be. As the song progresses, there is hope and refreshment. The lyrics are written in such a way that they create a visual of a cascading river, which is a metaphor for the love of God that is always flowing and never-ending. The imagery in the lyrics is very strong and evocative, making it easy for listeners to connect with the message of the song.
The song has a very positive and uplifting message that is sure to bring hope and inspiration to those who need it most. The song’s message is one of love and acceptance, reminding listeners that no matter what they may be going through, they are loved and accepted by God.
This song is also related to sever bible verses which include
When I kept silent about my sin, my body wasted away Through my groaning all day long. For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; My vitality was drained away as with the fever heat of summer. Psalm 32:3-4
May God’s mercy, peace and love cascade over you Jude 1:2
but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life. John 4:14
If I were to choose a second song I believe it would be Living By Grace. Which speak to the hope we have in Jesus and the longing to fellowship with him.
How do you see your role as a Christian songwriter in today’s music industry?
I first and foremost someone who desires to honor God with my time, talent and treasure. To that end I would say my primary goal is a songwriter. That is what I do write songs. I believe that the song is the message. The message I hope to send out into the world is the goodness of God and the proper response in worship to him.
Songs as a message of hope act like an evangelism tool to be used by music artist and worship leaders to reach not only the church but those outside the church. Song also are tools in the Christian faith as conduits of teaching. Every worship song must have the message of Christ at its core. When people sing the lyrics they not only bless the singer it must also bless and honor God. It is a way to speak to God.
These songs I write are first for the church to educate and edify them in their faith journey. It is my desire that the songs I write go way beyond me and are used to minister to people. I don’t want to be the only one who performs and sings these songs I would like them to be used by the church all over the world. I know that is high expectation but by the will of God that is my heart.
Who is songwriter John Pape?
John Pape is a Worship and Praise songwriter hailing from El Cajon, California. With many years in the music industry, John Pape has built a reputation for creating uplifting and inspiring music that resonates with audiences of all ages. He has released faith based singles.
In addition to his music career, John is also an active member of Horizon Christian Fellowship, where he uses his platform to spread messages of hope and positivity.
John Pape is excited to share his catalog of songs, with the world and believes that it will touch the hearts of many and bring hope and inspiration to those who need it most. To listen to the collection of songs you can visit any one of these sites.
God Has Come song interview questions. Get to know about the song song by John Pape.
For those who haven’t heard of you before, can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got involved in making music?
I was raised in the suburb of San Diego in the city of El Cajon. Growing up my interest in music start early on. In elementary school a played violin in the school orchestra and sang in the glee club. Although I did not continue with the violin, I did later in High School pick up the guitar. It was a Christmas present. It was probably prompted by my parents because while digging out a footing for a retaining wall being built, I would “air guitar” the shovel. Also, I remember building a makeshift guitar out of an old wooden box, a board, screws and copper wire. Perhaps that was the clue they needed.
Along with the guitar I also got 6 lessons. I am dominate left-handed but the guitar is about the only thing I do right-handed. It was at that first lesson the teacher forced me to flip the guitar over. I learned a few basic things then after that I basically self-taught myself to play.
One day at lunch at school, I met a someone who also played guitar and we struck up a friendship. We would jam and improvise for hours. Then another friend asked if we would like to play at a wedding. We probably only knew 3-4 songs at the time. We said yes. This was the start of the first band I was in.
I started songwriting in my early twenties and love the artform. It provides an outlet to express thoughts and ideas. My hope is that the songs I share will touch the listener in an emotional or impactful way.
Tell us about your new song single ‘God Has Come‘ and what the inspiration behind it was?
Why I wrote God Has Come?
The premise behind the song is found in scripture. Specifically, the bible verse Isaiah 12:2. This single verse is packed with God’s love. First off God is the source of salvation. We all have this in common, there are times in life where we need to be saved.
These could be dark and lonely times. It could be moments of distress and anxiety However, to acknowledge God is my salvation leads to the behavior of trust and peace. Afterall, peace is the opposite of being afraid. Some translation end with the word “victory”. And that is what Christians get when putting their entire trust in Him.
My hope is that this song will encourage Christians that God is our salvation especially when facing spiritual battles.
What inspired the song God Has Come?
The song God has Come is inspired by a verse in Isaiah 12:2
Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; ‘For Yah, the Lord, is my strength and song; He also has become my salvation.’
First off God seek our individuals in their time of need. His timing is always prefect. God brings salvation. As a Christian the belief is that Jesus is Savior. In some sense this verse is prophetic in nature regarding Jesus. Jesus is God and he came in human form to bring salvation to the world.
As Christ followers one is the thing that needs to be done is to let the world know through Christ you have victory. You have victory over death, sickness, oppression, addictions, and so many other things. When we focus on God and his salvation it gives believers victory.
What message would you like people to take from the song God Has Come?
The message I would like to express with this song is one of salvation comes from God and we have victory. This comes from the perspective of my Christian lifestyle. Christianity is one to the most influenced who I am. Faith is not something to be placed under a bushel, it is something to be shared with other. In life there are times of joy and time of sorrow. There are difficult and stressful situation we all face. In my songs the hope is to instill the abundant life though a relationship with Christ
How would you describe your style of music and what are your influences?
There are several influences that has shaped my style of music. In some ways it is eclectic. My early influences were primarily shaped by my passion for the guitar. The styles of music would include blues, rock, new-wave/punk. Becoming a musician I’ve grown and expanded my styles. As a songwriter the style would be more of singer/songwriter, folk and Contemporary Christian Music. Growing as a Christian songwriter here are some of the people who influenced my style. Matt Redman, Chris Tomlin, Benton Brown, Sonic Flood and many other.
How would you define success in your career as an artist?
Success as a songwriter would be where the song serves the listener. When it comes to praise and worship music an even greater success would be creating a song that build a better relationship with God. In actuality in the end success would be to glorify God.
What does the next year hold for you?
I have several songs in the wings that are ready to be released. My desire is to release a different song at least one a month for the next year. I also want to continue writing more songs.
How did you get involved with making music?
When I first playing the guitar, I had a mentor that encouraged improvisation. Improvisation stimulates creativity. I lot of material can be created, some of it good, some not so good. But gleaning motifs and sounds can be the genesis for a new song. Really it about messing around until something sparks.
Do you have any plans to release more music in the near future?
Yes, there are plans to release more music in the coming months. My hope is to release a song every 4-5 weeks.
What first got you into music?
My first musical experience was playing the violin. I was about 10-11 years old. My parents took me to a concert and there was a violinist. Apparently, I told my parents that I loved the sound and wanted to play the violin. That got me into the elementary school orchestra.
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
Over the years I have done many genres of music. There are actually 2 type of music I make currently. The first contemporary Christian Praise and Worship music. With this style I want to be a resource for the church. I desire to create songs that help people connect with God. In addition to Contemporary Christian Praise and Worship music I also compose corporate instrumental music. This is the kind of music that is used in television, film or advertising.
What is your creative process like?
As a writer, the creative process begins with an idea. Usually, it is a word or phrase. It could be inspired by verse in the Bible. Then I compile a ton of ideas and thoughts that are related to the original idea. Ideas then pop out as the process of taking the ideas and translating them into lyrics. Then the lyrics are edited and refined though rewriting.
As a musician, ideas are developed by messing around as I improvise melody ideas. Again, these ideas then get sifted through and refined. The melding of words and music is then worked out. When it comes to the song, I do like to work within the framework of the standard song form. The songs are then recorded as a rough demo. Then the work in the DAW is started. I like to start with the foundation of bass and drums then build other instrument on that foundation. Eventually a song is produced and recorded.
What is your definition of worship?
Worship is the act of giving devotion and honor to God. Worship includes all area of life for the Christian believer. It not just a song we sing. It is found in our fellowship, Bible reading, and in prayer. As the word say. Whatever you do, do it as unto the Lord.
Describe what worship looks like and why it’s more than music.
Music is only a tool to help the Church communicate with God with the hope that the words reflect our devotion to Him. But it not the only way to worship. There are so many ways a person can worship God. There is worship found in being a servant. It can be found in prayer time. It can be found listening to the Word.
Do you have a personal mission statement?
My mission is to glorify God in all that I do. To do that my actions and deeds need to edify, educate, entertain and encourage others.
Explain your call to ministry.
As believers have a call in their life. To define my call would be to look at my life experiences both the good and the bad. Then I would look at the talents I possess. These are given by God to glorify Him. Next, I look at my Spiritual Gift. This unique blend of attributes is what defines a calling. I believe my calling is to encourage, education and edify people around me. One way to do that is through music. Of course, that is not the only way as I have a call of ministry to my family.
The Bible instructs us to “play skillfully.” Do you work hard at your craft?
This is one of my favorite verses in the bible. It shows me that God want the best. One way is through work. The only way to play skillfully is though learning, practice and execution.
Who are some of your favorite Christian songwriters?
Matt Redman, Chris Tomlin, Benton Brown, Paul Bloche are what come to mind.
Tell me about your testimony. How did you come to faith in Christ?
But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved.
John 5:34
Ever since I remember I was somehow involved with music. In elementary school I learned to play the violin and was in the school orchestra. Also, I sang in the Glee Club. When I got older, I received a guitar as a Christmas present. I spent all of my spare time learning everything I could about the guitar. I played in several Garage bands in High School and my College days. Then I began to write songs. I learned by listening and copying artist that I liked. I learned from other musicians. Music was everything to me.
“The cross is foolishness to those that are perishing.”
Corinthians
All this time I was missing something in my life. I somehow knew it had a spiritual element to it. So, there I was exploring things that at the time seemed to be spiritual. I looked to the stars for the answers in astrology. Then, I looked at the Greek and Roman gods Mythology for answers. I was seeking but never finding the truth. These things always came up short. All though this time it was my belief that the “Christian thing” with Jesus was a rather foolish approach to spiritual enlightenment. As I look back at my journey, I now realize that I was on the wrong track. I thought I was seeking God. But as the Bible says – No one seeks God. The real truth is, God is seeking us. He just needs to get our attention.
God was able to get my attention one day. I was presented with an invitation to church one day by the mother of a friend of mine. We entered this little church and the preacher was preaching about Jesus. He explained that we are born sinners and our eternal destination was rather bleak. But that God so loved us that her sent His Son Jesus to get us out of this mess.
How? Believe that Jesus rose from the dead three days after dying on the cross. And the power of His resurrection saves us from the ugly future that awaits us. Jesus gives us the ability the have fellowship with God for eternity. It was a pure Gospel message of salvation. At the end the preached asked if anyone would like to receive that give of salvation. It was at this time a vision came to me of Jesus asking me to come to Him. It was as though the lights turned on for the very first time.
Now I was placed in a rather peculiar situation. My lifestyle, which involved my music, put me in places that I began to feel uncomfortable. The lifestyle of a secular musician is one that makes it difficult for a Christian. There were influences that did not fit a new life in Christ. There was a spiritual war. It was at this time that I set aside my music. This break lasted for a couple of years. As I look back, I realize that music was an idol. And God needed to clean out the idols in my life. Of course, that’s not the end of the story.
One day I was reading my Bible and I read the parable of the talents. This truly stirred up my heart. I began to pray about my talents and how they could be used to glorify Jesus. Then Jesus revealed to me that day that I was to take my love for music and use it for his purpose. I then took a walk and as I was walking, I saw a piece of paper on the ground. You know that voice that speaks to you. It said John, pick up that piece of paper. At first, I ignored it. But as I passed by this piece of paper, I really felt that I better do what the voice said. So, I picked up the piece of paper. It was a photocopy of some music. But not just any music it was Christian Music!
Now, I knew that God had a plan and purpose for me. I immediately went to the store and picked up a local tabloid paper called the Reader. This is a local free newspaper. This publication has a special classified section for musicians. There was an ad requesting a bass player for a Christian music group. Now mind you my primary instrument is the guitar however I did have a bass that I used for recording. Within a week I was rehearsing with this group of Christian musicians. It is amazing how God works.
The next phase in my journey placed me in at the Horizon School of Evangelism. This is an extensive ministry school that concludes with a one-month practicum. It was at this school that my classmates learned that I knew how to play guitar. They asked me to play some Worship songs for the daily devotional.
My first experience was a total disaster in my mind. Even though I was in a Christian Music Group the songs were primarily Christian Rock music and I learned only the bass parts. To compound the problem, I was rarely if ever sang publicly in front of people by my self – There was the lead singer and I was always the guitar player. I did possess great knowledge and skill in my instrument. But it was that day I learned humility. I set out on my own strength. What a mistake. I quickly learned that worship music is very special and requires the proper mind set. It not about my ability and me it’s about the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit’s purpose. It is my desire to be used as a vessel to glorify Him.
Ever since the first time I was placed in a position to lead worship, I can testify that God has been molding and shaping me. Though His Holy Spirit he is guiding and directing my path in life. I truly find it a privilege and honor to be placed in this sacred position. I know that there is much further down the road. All I can do is allow Him to shape my future. And then someday when He calls, I will be there in heaven offering my song of praise to God.
I now lead worship and write songs to glorify God the Father the Creator of all things above and below.
