Rawkzilla Interview: Michael Sweet of Stryper
May 3, 2006
Where to begin, you've been a professional musician/guitarist for over two decades now, what changes have you seen in your life through your experiences with Stryper and as a solo artist?
Many. I've come to realize that despite everything that comes and goes over the years, God has never left my side and for that I'm eternally grateful. I've also come to understand the importance of family and friends. Going through low and high points, it's made me who I am today - someone who likes to keep my priorities in check.
Any past regrets in your musical career that you wish you could change if any?
The biggest regret is not getting my record "Truth" placed with the right label. I literally put my blood, sweat and tears into that project. So much went in and it broke my heart to see it basically get shelved.
In regards to the current Stryper lineup, what was the reason behind the original bassist Timothy Gaines not joining the rest of the band for the album Reborn?
Tim felt led to move on and we didn't want to keep him from doing so. He wanted to head in a different direction. He's a very talented person and I'm sure you will hear a lot more from Tim in the near future. We love him and wish him all the best.
Speaking of Reborn, explain the significance of the album's cover art?
Basically we wanted to try to project visually what it's like when you are "Reborn". When we receive Christ as Lord, His blood cleanses us from all the sin and muck that we are covered in. We are set free through Christ. We tried to convey that visually.
Rumors are flying about Stryper recording at least two or three more albums, could you explain what currently lies ahead in the near future for the band?
We will definately record more records. Right now we are focusing on getting the message of "Reborn" out to the world. We believe that it's a powerful record with a powerful message that needs to be heard. We plan to do many more shows and also a video as well as release a new single.
What is one particular memory you've had with the band past or present that will live on in your mind forever?
There are so many. Being a part of something that was so huge and so powerful was amazing. We look forward to the future so we'll many more memories.
Amidst the hype surrounding your band in the past two years, are there any plans for you to continue on as a solo artist when you're not tour or when Stryper is officially through?
Absolutely. I like to write different styles of music and I like to express myself through those different styles. Strypers music is one style, and my solo music is another. I have a heavy side to me and a soft side as well. It's great to be able to show both.
Finally, what Bible verse has kept you strong in your faith throughout the past years and what significance does it hold to you personally?
You know, the bible verse that we have used for years still is so powerful to me because I see it come in to play time and time again - Isaiah 53:5 - "By His Stripes we are Healed". We are healed and saved through the beating that Christ took for the world. Amazing!
Source: www.rawkzilla.com.
Rawkzilla.com Interviews Michael