Common Children 1998 Jesusfreakhideout.com Interview

We finally got one of our personally much-anticipated question-and-answer sessions with the great guys of Common Children. This time, lead singer Marc Byrd, & bassist Drew Powell teamed up to complete the interview. Enjoy! It took place on: 8/26/98.

Jesus freak Hideout: Why the name, "Common Children?"

Marc Byrd & Drew Powell: We chose the name because we are all common children in the sense that we all live together, in a broken world, in need of grace—beggars attempting to tell other beggars where to get bread. Marc presented the idea to the rest of the band.

JFH: How did the band get started?

Marc & Drew: We (Drew and Marc) went to the same college in Arkansas. Marc’s roommate later introduced us to Hampton. We played anywhere and everywhere.

JFH: How would you describe your sound?

Marc & Drew: Modern/melodic with an edge.

JFH: What bands have influenced your sound?

Marc & Drew: U2, the Choir, the Verve, Radiohead, King’s X, the Church, L.S.U., Tears for Fears, Michael Hedges, Smashing Pumpkins, and YES.

JFH: Two years ago, you guys released your fantastic debut album, Skywire. It had the rather controversial song, "Hate," on it. What inspired the song, and did you guys receive a lot of flack for it?

Marc & Drew: There were some concerns about the lyrical content. We actually had some CDs returned because of that song. The inspiration for the song comes from our own struggle with the flesh. It talks about hating the flesh and the "self" that goes against what God intended for our lives. We see this in Romans, where Paul calls himself a wretched man for doing what he hates, instead of what he knows is right.

JFH: This year, you released your sophomore project, "Delicate Fade." It’s a really great disc, with a lighter sound. What caused you to change your style?

Marc & Drew: The change was a natural progression because of what we were listening to on the road. We think there is more of a focus on the songs themselves, as opposed to just rocking out. (Not to say that we don’t like rock. We love to rock). The CD still slams...

JFH: What is the song, "Burn," about?

Marc: "Burn" is about propaganda and using Christ as a means of profit.

JFH: What is "Indiscreet" about?

Marc: "Indiscreet" is about sin that is committed in the dark, and the person thinking that it will never come to light.

JFH: What is the meaning behind "Pulse"?

Marc: "Pulse" talks about unity in the Body of Christ. The Body of Christ has one heartbeat, or "pulse".

JFH: What is the song, "Storm Boy," about?

Marc: "Storm Boy" is about kids who have grown up in dysfunctional families and carried their inner struggles with them into adulthood.

JFH: What is your favorite Common Children song?

Drew: "Last Time Out." It’s about speaking what is truly on your heart, before it’s too late.

JFH: Do you prefer Mountain Dew or Surge?

Drew: Mountain Dew... nectar of the gods.

JFH: What's your favorite movie?

Drew: "Raiders of the Lost Ark."

JFH: What does the future hold in store for Common Children?

Marc & Drew: Possibly a third CD, but we are waiting until the fall to decide for sure. Keep us in your prayers . . .

JFH: The Jesus freak Hideout site was started out of appreciation for good Christian music. We've set a goal to try to use the site to spread Christian music, as well as God's Word, & show others how great Christian music can be. Do you listen to Christian music? If so, what bands?

Marc & Drew: Yes. Violet Burning, Velour 100, Starflyer 59, King’s X, Vigilantes of Love, L.S.U., the Choir, Grammatrain, the Prayer Chain, Mark Heard.

JFH: I really appreciate you taking out the time in your busy schedule to answer some questions for us. Are there any last comments you'd like to make?

Marc & Drew: Thanks again for your support of live music and for doing what you are doing. Be encouraged and know that it is not in vain. Thanks again for listening to the children.
-Drew and Marc-