Interview: The Sonflowerz
The Sonflowerz recently used a successful Kickstarter Campaign to fund their new 6-song EP 'Love Walked In'. LTTM talked to the duo about the EP and their new devotional book, plus their work encouraging young women.
Tell us a little bit about your new EP 'Love Walked In' and what the inspiration behind it was?
“Love Walked In” is a project that happened almost by accident! When we booked studio time it was simply to re-record old songs. But God surprised us, like He usually does. We ended up writing a handful of fresh songs while we were in the studio. The songs came about so naturally and have a unique sound from anything we've ever done! -Elissa
Which is your favourite track on the EP and why?
“Love Walked In” is my favourite song on the EP so far, because it was the first song that came out of a dry season of writing. It was the song that set the course. We filmed a music video for this one, which was such a fun experience and really makes it come alive! -Elissa
What's your song writing process?
Who are your musical influences?
Our dad is one of the biggest musical influences for the Sonflowerz. He is the first musician of the family - playing guitar and writing songs since we were little kids. He introduced us to musicians like Phil Keaggy and Martin Smith, who were revolutionary. -Elissa
You've successfully used a Kickstarter Campaign for this release - what was that experience like?
The Kickstarter was a very long and uncertain path - a little scary. Our campaign lasted six weeks but it was mostly funded in the last 24 hours! It taught me a lot about faith and trust in God. It has given Becca and I wind beneath our sails to make a greater impact for Christ in our generation. -Elissa
You spend a lot of time working with young women, tell us a little about that and why it's important to you?
Through the years I was in Jr. High and Highschool, there weren’t very many women I could look up to. As girls walk through this part of life, they have a ton of questions, and need to be surrounded by other women who have been there. I feel it’s important that Elissa and I speak out and encourage teen girls. It just comes naturally I think. -Becca
You have a book coming along soon - what's the aim for that?I never considered that I would write a book, but it landed in our laps. It began with conversations we had with teen girls after concerts. We would talk for 5 minutes and then have to pack-up and go home. I so wanted to take more time and share my story, to help them through their questions about life, God, friends, relationships, calling, etc. I also felt there weren’t enough resources for them out there. “Made To Shine” was born from those conversations, and a desire to be a voice of hope to girls navigating their teen years. -Becca
What advice would you give to any aspiring singers or songwriters out there?
Our culture says that success is all about numbers. How much you’ve achieved, how many records sold, how many tour dates in your pocket. But I would challenge you to ask God what His view of success is, for your life and what He has called you to do. As I’ve brought this question to Him, each time He has been faithful to show me. It’s a journey of faith, which doesn’t always make sense in this natural world. Also, never try out this path alone. It’s much too narrow! Find some people that will walk with you. -Becca
You're stuck on an island, it's hot, you only have enough battery life left to listen to one song on your mp3 player. What track is it?
I imagine I will need to hear “God I Look To You” by Bethelone of my favorite songs right now. It reminds me of who I belong to, which can be easy to forget in our culture these days. Also, I reckon it will help me not freak out that I’m stranded on an island. Help?! -Becca
What does the next year hold for The Sonflowerz?
We plan on touring as much as possible, and hitting the road for girls-only “Made To Shine” events! Elissa and I are passionate about reaching young women, so next year we will be visiting churches of all sizes who have that same passion. These one-night events will include a concert, a message, Q&A time, food, prizes, and a chance for girls to respond to the invitation to become followers of Jesus. -Becca
Find out more at Sonflowerz.com
