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Avalon has been one of the premier adult contemporary groups in Christian music since its debut in the mid-nineties.
With the band's latest project, Another Time, Another Place, being a nod to some of the music that inspired Avalon,
member Janna Long took some time out of her busy schedule to talk to JFH's own Lauren Summerford.
This interview took place in February 19, 2008.
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JesusfreakHideout.com (Lauren Summerford): Why did you choose to create a "best of Christian classics" type album
as a follow up to a hymns project? How did you select the songs?
Janna Long:
We chose to do this album for several reasons: we all grew up on
much of this music, nothing like this had been done, and we've admired/
toured with many of the artists represented. We selected the songs
by narrowing down many lists from the four of us, management, and EMI.
JFH (Lauren): Do you have any upcoming touring plans in support of Another Time,
Another Place?
Janna:
We will begin a multi-artist tour with Michael English, Cadia, and Daniel Doss Band at the end of March to support
this record.
JFH (Lauren): Do you plan on releasing an album of all new, original material anytime
in the near future?
Janna:
We have no plans of heading back into the studio as of now but I
think we will at some point.
JFH (Lauren): How have the various member changes affected the group's chemistry in
studio and on stage?
Janna:
Change is always challenging and we've had our share of member
changes. However, as we believe God has been the orchestrator of
this ministry from the beginning, He has been the glue to hold us
together. He continues to provide opportunities and we keep going.
JFH (Lauren): After all these years and changes, what keeps the group intact and
everyone going?
Janna:
We try to remain obedient to God and the opportunities He is
giving us. That is what keeps us going, and the desire to see
people's lives changed.
JFH (Lauren): Does the group have a favorite song to perform live night after night?
Janna:
"Testify To Love" is one of the most loved songs of our career. We
not only love singing it at every concert but it's very fulfilling to
see the audiences sing every word!
JFH (Lauren): If Avalon were to end today, what might each of you do instead?
Janna:
If Avalon was to end today, I would continue to love being a mom
and would love to pursue studio work. I also enjoy doing concerts with
my husband, Greg.
JFH (Lauren): Do any of the members of Avalon hope to pursue working on any solo
projects as they've done in the past?
Janna:
We all enjoy doing solo work and will continue to do so.
JFH (Lauren): How has parenthood and family life changed your life on the road? How
about your music career in general?
Janna:
Being a parent changes everything. It is the greatest opportunity
I've been given. My family comes only second to my relationship with
God. Work, friends, ministry, etc...., they all come after that.
The wellbeing of my kids affects every decision I do or do not make.
JFH (Lauren): Any closing comments?
Janna: To close, I would like to add how grateful I am to still be in
music ministry after 12 years. God, as He always does, has given me
way more than I ever dreamed of! If it were to all end tomorrow, I
have had a great ride on this journey of Avalon.
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