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With
eight number one singles, six more top 10 hits, an ASCAP Award, and two Dove
Award nominations, Greg Long embarks on a new leg of his acclaimed journey with
passion and excitement. Not only
has his long-awaited Christian Records debut, "Born Again", released,
but Greg has officially joined Sparrow Records’ multi-Dove Award-winning,
American Music Award-winning platinum selling group, Avalon.
While it may sound like a full plate, Greg is enjoying the ride as he
continues to grow his relationship with God and expand his career and ministry.
Musically,
"Born Again" presents bold lyrics, great melodies and a fresh sound.
It reunites Greg with producer Don Koch (4HIM, NewSong) on four songs,
and Koch’s presence assures fans of Greg’s signature rich pop melodies and
strong vocals. Secondly, add
producer Mooki Taylor (TobyMac, Stacie Orrico, The Katinas) for four more tunes,
and Greg exhibits some R&B flare that has not been heard on his previous
projects. The album is completed
with two cuts produced by Greg and industry A&R veteran, George King
(Michael W. Smith, Yolanda Adams, Bob Carlisle).
"Born Again"
reflects the story of grace in the life of one man, Greg Long, as he shares the
love relationship with His God. It
is a testimony in music. From the
first seed planted, to baptism in the faith, to a time of rededication, to
calling on God during difficult times, to the ongoing call to share the Gospel,
Greg invites the listener to rediscover the joy of being in love with the
Savior. “I wrote or co-wrote nine
of the 10 songs on "Born Again" -- the most I’ve ever contributed to
an album,” Greg explains. “I
hope people see my heart in this project and are drawn to the excitement of
walking with Jesus.”
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The
title cut launches with “It was the
Gulf of Mexico
/ My father waded in….” which tells the actual story of Greg’s
baptism by his father, an itinerant preacher.
Real life footage of his baptism as a young boy is included in the music
video of “Born Again.” “The
greatest moment in someone's life is when they meet Christ and become a new
creature,” Greg explains. “The Bible says that all the old is passed
away and everything becomes new. That moment brings such joy and relief
and a heart full of gratitude. Taking that faith the next step is seen
through the expression of baptism. The song ‘Born Again’ reminds me of that
moment and brings it to today – I can feel clean inside with no more weight on
my back because His mercy is "new" every morning.
I know I don't live like this is true everyday, but I should. When people
hear the song, they might not identify with the specifics of the story of Greg
Long, but they relate to that feeling in their heart.
They know what it feels like to be born again!”
Having
given his heart to Christ at an early age, Greg Long recalls rededicating his
life at a Dallas Holm concert at age 14. “I
remember literally feeling like my body was walking on it’s own at the altar
call. God really moved in my heart
that night. It was a watershed
moment for me. Now it’s my turn
to take a stab at a song, ‘Rise Again,’ that has impacted me and countless
others.”
The
musical journey continues as Long presents his passion to share Christ through
his own music. “The song ‘Sing
About Jesus,’ with its light R&B groove, is a reaction to the conflict of
ministry vs. making a living. When
it comes down to it, I really do just want to sing about Jesus and tell people
about his goodness and his love. I
am blessed to be able to have my career be my ministry.”
Continuing
the theme of wanting to share about Jesus comes “Fifteen.”
This song displays the desire and responsibility Greg feels for people to
come to know Christ as their own personal Savior.
“This song is so convicting to me personally, but also it is meant to
be an encouragement to us all. If
it takes a person 15 times to hear about Jesus before they believe, what happens
if I’m the fifteenth? Wow!
We have to be constantly aware of sharing Christ with others.”
“Once
Upon A Time“ has a movie-like theme production that was inspired when Greg was
writing the song with Lowell Alexander. The
song began and Greg was instantly reminded of a fairy tale. “Every fairy tale
starts with ‘Once upon a time…,’ and has some great love story between a
prince and the princess. Well, what about the greatest love story of all time,
the story of God’s love for his people and how He rescues them?
But this story isn’t a fairy tale!”
The
R&B ballad “The Cross, The Blood, The Love,” was birthed out of Long's
desire to understand why it had to be the Lamb.
“I always understood the cross and the blood, but I don’t comprehend
why it wasn’t me. Why did it have
to be Jesus?”
"Savior
of the World” presents the gospel with a driving dance beat behind it,
“Everlasting” is a straight up true pop tune, and the simple prayer song
“Be Near,” features vocal contributions from Greg’s friend, 4HIM member
Andy Chrisman.
Greg Long's passion has remained consistent since those early days of faith.
He has always tried to concentrate on living in the present – but the
present sure has changed. Married
to Avalon’s Janna Long with a child on the way, a busy touring schedule as a
solo artist, and most recently adding responsibilities of being a member of
Avalon, Greg has had to juggle a lot of hats.
“Being in Avalon while maintaining a solo career is the result of
people’s hearts for furthering the Kingdom. I am grateful that I am able to
tour with my wife and share in the ministry of Avalon, while being able to
record "Born Again" to present the message God has given to me.
Having Avalon and a solo career is truly an unbelievable blessing.”
Click here to read the biography for "Now"