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Jamie Rowe
Guardian
I caught up to an extremely busy Jamie Rowe. Jamie is the front man of the legendary rockers, Guardian. He started out singing with his brother Mick in Tempest from 1986 to 1989. He then joined Guardian and the rest is history. Jamie is preparing for "Beyond the Mountain", so I could only do a short interview with him. He was very gracious to give me a little time and here's what he had to say.
TJ: So how's it going Jamie?
JR: Things are groovy. just celebrated my 13th wedding anniversary yesterday.
TJ: 13 years, congratulations! So, with the tours, dealing with the rock industry people, other bands and all, how difficult was it to stay on track (walking with GOD) and what did you do to stay true?
JR: It's not that different from what any believer would do...you have the high points and the low points and you just know that God is always there. I went through a major valley around 99-2000. Probably my lowest point spiritually...but God was faithful and pulled me through.
TJ: So what have you been up to?
JR: Staying as busy as I can. I consider myself a working class musician so I have my hands (actually my voice) in a lot of things. I do jingles, solo cd's studio work, etc..I do consulting work for a label in Nashville. also getting ready for another round of Guardian too.
TJ: There are a few bands re-uniting for "Beyond the Mountain" including Guardian, is this a short term thing or is there any future plans for you guys?
JR: Well, we plan to do a full cd...It will be out between October and December of this year. as far as a tour, I am not actually sure. Not really sure if Tony Palacios could commit the time, he is an in demand engineer and I think he is at a point where he actually enjoys that more than playing live.
TJ: So you're a wild and crazy guy, what was your craziest moment with Guardian?
JR: Ahh, I dunno....I enjoyed pulling many pranks on the road..I pulled off having Steve Taylor think I had Tourettes Syndrome for two weeks on a tour...EVERYONE was in on it except for Steve. We set it up that I was out of medication and I could have an outburst at any moment..even on stage....it has become legend in Nashville rock circles.
TJ: Who are your musical influences?
JR: I have a lot of stuff I listened to growing up...but to be honest, I have always been more influenced when writing by what I am paying attention to at that moment. Currently I like hard pop music like American HI-FI..but growing up I had a steady diet of pure hair metal!
TJ: What is your favorite Guardian song and why?
JR: I have 2 actually....The Rain and Salvation....both those songs have always connected with me better than the rest for some reason..I can't tell you why actually..they just do!
TJ: With many bands re-uniting, do you think metal is making a comeback?
JR: Metal never went away..it just evolved. Do I think older bands are coming back due to nostalgic demands? YES..Guardian is one of em.
TJ: Ministry wise, what is your most memorable moment?
JR: Ya know...Guardian's Latin American tour in 1996 was almost like a revival for us. We all had deep encounters with God on that trip. It was and still is a great feeling to get an e-mail from someone who became a Christian after listening to Guardian...I am happy God used us.
TJ: Guardian was considered a very successful Christian rock band, what would you say was the most difficult part of being successful?
JR: Having it end....it's a shock to the system.
TJ: Thank you so much for talking with us, I know that you are very busy. Can't wait 'till the new album is out and we'll keep ya in our prayers.
JR: You are welcome...be patient with Guardian...we'll do our best to make sure it's worth the wait