What I loved most about Maplenoise 2011 Toronto (at Catch the Fire on Sept 16), was not only that the musical performances were outstanding and FUN-- but knowing full well that each and every artist on stage “do what they do” not only because they love it, but as an act of worship to God. I think knowing that, is pretty cool. I feel blessed our radio station, Life 100.3 could be a part of it.
Ten Amazing Christian Bands, one night of great music and worship. The highlight of the night (Newsboys) not only had entertaining stage effects between the rising platforms and the carnival-ride-like spinning of their drum set, but their lead singer Michael Tait (see pic above) also talked about growing up on welfare in the inner city, in a family of 9 where he was the youngest-- yet look where God has brought him today! Michael also talked about how his father passed away from cancer, and how he admired his dad, because it was his father who had taught him about Christ. Also, he says his dad was married to his mother for 42 years and came home every night- a good role model for any family man. He had also mentioned how their band the Newsboys would be “losers” - if it weren't for the grace of Christ in their lives, because it was only through a personal relationship with Jesus that could take away any heavy baggage from the past, and make them clean, new, and born again.
Maplenoise 2011 was a great showcase of today's Christian contemporary music variety (especially with the many Canadian acts). From worship artists who played acoustically, to others who rocked the stage with smoke machines! I really appreciated the night-- besides feeling spiritually uplifted by being able to sing along to songs in praise of our wonderful God- I also genuinely enjoyed the acts. Talking to the artists and hardworking staff who made this event possible, was a blessing too. (And as a side note, to the “anonymous person” who came up to me in between emceeing the show and handed me a Twix chocloate bar-- hey, sweet thanks- God bless you! That was so nice!). It was also great that the concert showcased the works of World Vision as well, an amazing international charity that helps children have a brighter future in underdeveloped countries. (worldvision.ca)
I look forward to many more Maplenoise events in upcoming years, and pray God is able to bless this tour with much success across Canada so that they can continue to be that place where people can bring their friends to not only hear/enjoy great music... but also hear about Christ, and be a place where people can feel his love... through the music, the artists, and the message.
A big props as well to Sam and the staff at Every Eye Media for putting this fantastic cross-Canada tour together! (everyeye.ca)
Click the link below for more Maplenoise 2011 pix on my facebook page... Enjoy!!!
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002804454345#!/media/set/?set=a.117690405001107.11906.100002804454345&type=1
How was your experience at Maplenoise 2011? Any cool stories to share? Feel free to comment on this post or add me as a friend on facebook "Maria Lopez Cohost", and we can chat there!
God bless you!
