Issue date: Dec 19, 1999

Interview

Christian pop star heads to the mainstream

ichael W. Smith has been a pop superstar in the world of Christian music since he was a teen. Now 42, he's taking his music into the mainstream with a new album, This Is Your Time. His take on politics, Columbine and why he doesn't like the "Christian artist" label:

So, what does the W stand for?
"Whitaker. It's an old family name."

Do you plan to vote for George W. Bush?
"I haven't decided, but he is a good friend of mine. I think he's a good candidate."

What do you think of the label "Christian music crossover artist"?
"I don't like it. I've never enjoyed the label 'Christian artist.' I grew up on Elton John and the Beatles. My faith is the most important thing in my life, and I'm going to talk about that. But I sing about all sorts of things."

Do you fear losing your core audience?
"People say, 'You can't cross over' and 'That's not a Christian song,' and it's like, 'Get a life.' We have to get out of our subculture."

You talk about the Columbine school shootings on your new CD.
"I met Cassie Bernall's mom and dad [at] the Columbine memorial service. Cassie's the one who said, 'Yes, I believe in God,' and lost her life for it. I couldn't get her off my mind. I came home and wrote [the title track], This Is Your Time."

Your take on the state of American culture?
"I don't think it's healthy. But I think it's a matter of the heart. We've lost our spiritual roots. But I believe there's hope for America."