1 Degree of Andy

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From touring in the group 4Him to working as a worship pastor to leading a radio show, I've had the opportunity to be a part of the Christian Music industry for the last four decades. I'm Andy Chrisman and I've had the unique opportunity to tour with, record with, and become friends with just about everyone within the Christian Music industry. I think this makes me the perfect person to tell their stories. Welcome to 1 Degree of Andy!

Andy Chrisman

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    • Jun 2, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 1h 4m AVG DURATION
    • 192 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The 1 Degree of Andy podcast is a nostalgic trip down memory lane for anyone who grew up listening to Christian music in the 80s and 90s. Hosted by Andy Chrisman, a former member of the popular group 4Him, this podcast features candid conversations with artists from that era, sharing behind-the-scenes stories and insights into their music careers. It's not just about the memories though; listeners also learn about the connections between these artists and the impact they had on each other's lives.

    One of the best aspects of The 1 Degree of Andy podcast is Andy's skills as an interviewer. He has a natural ability to connect with his guests and delve deep into their experiences and emotions. The conversations feel genuine and unscripted, allowing listeners to gain a deeper understanding of the artists and the music industry as a whole. Additionally, Andy's own background as a musician adds another layer of authenticity to the interviews.

    Another great aspect of this podcast is its ability to invoke nostalgia. For those who grew up attending youth groups or going to Christian concerts, hearing these artists talk about their songs and experiences can transport you back in time. It's like reliving those moments when you first discovered your favorite songs all over again. Plus, for fans who may have lost touch with these artists over the years, it's heartwarming to hear that they are still serving God and making an impact in their communities.

    However, one potential downside of this podcast is its narrow focus on Christian music from the 80s and 90s. While it appeals to a specific audience who have nostalgia for that era, it may not attract listeners outside of that demographic. Expanding the scope to include more recent Christian music or exploring different genres within Christian music could help broaden its appeal.

    In conclusion, The 1 Degree of Andy podcast is a must-listen for anyone who grew up loving Christian music in the 80s and 90s. Andy's skill as an interviewer, coupled with the candid conversations and nostalgic trip down memory lane, make this podcast a delightful experience. Whether you're reliving your youth group days or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes stories of your favorite artists, The 1 Degree of Andy delivers an enjoyable and informative listening experience.



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    Latest episodes from 1 Degree of Andy

    Greg Long

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2025 56:20


    Join the mission! Visit donate.accessmore.com to help fund more episodes and shows like this. One of CCM's most recognizable voices is also one of my dearest friends. Come be a fly on the wall for the next hour!

    Alisa Childers -ZOEgirl

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2025 70:57


    Join the mission! Visit donate.accessmore.com to help fund more episodes and shows like this. From pop success to apologetics, Alisa's journey is one of the most unique in CCM history.

    The Archers

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2025 60:00


    A candid conversation with one of CCM's most beloved and groundbreaking groups.

    Jimi Ray - Age Of Faith

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2025 73:42


    A 90s CCM artist's journey through success, failure, addiction and redemption.

    Jason Barton - A freak accident can't quiet one of the great CCM voices

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2025 69:17


    Come with me as I reunite with an old friend who's seen it all - touring with Beyonce, a wild journey through CCM, and a near death experience that will move you to tears. Jason Barton is one of a kind!

    Rebecca St James - From teen sensation to a voice of a generation

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2025 57:25


    The journey of Rebecca St. James and her family is one of the most remarkable in CCM history, and that journey is far from over!

    John Schlitt - Petra's Iconic Frontman Isn't Done Yet!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2025 82:56


    If there were a Mt. Rushmore of CCM vocalists, John Schlitt's face would be front and center! Petra defined CCM rock and worship, and the man behind the microphone is as interesting and engaging as his once in a generation voice.

    Kim Boyce - A golden voice from the golden era of CCM

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2025 38:48


    From winning the Miss Florida pageant to becoming a Christian Music sensation, to having her own show in Branson, Kim Boyce found a way through the decades to reinvent her sound and her career, all while balancing family and a changing music industry. I've always been a fan of her pop-y 80s sound and 40 years later she's still got it!

    Veggie Tales - Silly songs and big ideas: the story of Veggie Tales

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2025 64:32


    More than 30 years after they created one of the most beloved animated series of all time Mike Nawrocki and Kurt Heineke join me to tell us everything we'd want to know about Larry the Cucumber, Bob the Tomato and the phenomenon that was Veggie Tales! Get ready to be have those Silliy Songs with Larry stuck in your head - you're welcome!

    Russ Lee - A big voice on a big tour, and stories about a big God

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2025 62:19


    This is a very special conversation with a friend that I hold in high regard. I've known Russ Lee for nearly 40 years - from his days in TRUTH, as a solo artist and as a long time member of Newsong. Every time we get together he blesses me with his wisdom and stories of faith. This is one of my favorite episodes so far and I'm glad you're here to experience it with me.

    4HIM and Point of Grace - Seven friends reconnect after 28 years to tell stories from one the 90's biggest tours.

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2025 50:37


    Controlled chaos. That's an accurate description of the next hour as I put seven friends around the microphone to laugh and share memories of touring together. The guys from 4HIM and the girls of Point of Grace share a unique history in christian music and I invite you along for the ride in this finale of my KLOVE cruise conversations.

    Roy Morgan - There are a handful of people in CCM who've seen it all. Roy Morgan might have the most unique experience of them all.

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2025 47:18


    On this episode I sit down with Roy Morgan - one of the most successful concert promoters in CCM history, bringing every major artist to your town for the better part of 50 years! He's been my friend since the early 90s and he has some great stories to tell.

    Jason Crabb - Never give up on your dreams: the incredible story of Jason's journey from southern gospel to mainstream success.

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2025 54:49


    This is a story of healing and forgiveness, and the power of never giving up. From a broken home and a journey through dark times to becoming one of the most beloved Christian artists today, Jason Crabb has an incredible story that I know will cause you dwell on the goodness of God!

    Phillips, Craig & Dean - Perfect harmonies and unified hearts: the story of CCM's most beloved trio.

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2025 51:19


    Join the mission! Visit donate.accessmore.com to help fund more episodes and shows like this. Psalm 133 says, “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity.” That verse accurately describes my guests today - Phillips, Craig and Dean! Their vocal harmonies and catalogue will be remembered as some of the most loved in CCM history, but more than that they are some of the best men I've ever been around, true brothers with a common heart and vision.

    Leon Patillo: From Santana to CCM, no one impacted Christian music quite like Leon

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2025 65:43


    Join the mission! Visit donate.accessmore.com to help fund more episodes and shows like this. My guest today had some of the biggest hits in Christian Music in the 1980s. Leaving a successful career as the lead singer for Santana, Leon Patillo became one of the most celebrated artists in CCM history. This is one of the most honest and raw conversations I've had to date and every minute of it is a reflection of God's grace.

    Mike Donehey: Tenth Ave North's frontman is the definition of a CCM Renaissance Man

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2025 56:09


    Unquestionably one of the best bands in Christian music in the 2000s was Tenth Avenue North. Their front man, Mike Donehey, is my guest today and he joins me to talk about their career and why things are much different in the music industry than they were 20 years ago. Mike has a lot to say about an artist's calling and the necessity for deep friendship.

    Michelle Tumes: There's never been anyone quite like Michelle in story of Christian music, and that's a good thing!

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2025 60:28


    That voice, those songs, that musical vibe that took over Christian radio in the late 1990s. They all belong to my friend Michelle Tumes, who wrote hit songs for Point of Grace and Jaci Velasquez, just to name a few, but also carved out her own legacy as one of the most unique and beloved CCM artists of all time. It was great fun catching up with her and I'm glad you could come along for the ride.

    Mark Lowry: Mission Impossible: Keeping Up with Christian Music's Musical Jester

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2025 66:04


    When I hear the name Mark Lowry, like many of you, I start to laugh because he's one of the funniest people I've ever met. But Mark also has a heart that challenges me and draws me closer to Jesus every time I'm around him. On this episode of 1 Degree we'll talk about how he carved out his place in the Christian music landscape, his relationship with Bill Gaither, and whatever rabbit trail we end up following. Get ready for a really fun conversation.

    Terry Blackwood: A Legendary Christian Music Pioneer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2025 59:55


    It could be argued that the Blackwoods are the most important family in the history of Christian music, and Terry Blackwood's entrance into The Imperials marked a decisive shift in the direction Christian music would take for decades to come. On this episode we'll hear first hand accounts about Elvis and what it was like creating one of the biggest albums in the early days of CCM.

    Mark Heimermann: The Groundbreaking Producer for DC Talk Has a Story to Tell

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2025 75:50


    You may not know the name Mark Heimermann but I know you know his music! He's best known for producing those iconic DC Talk albums and being involved in the careers of the biggest names in CCM from the 80s and 90s (including my band 4HIM). And just like every musician from that era he has a story to tell and legacy that is continuing to come into focus as he follows leading of God's voice.

    David and The Giants: The Most Unsung Heroes of Christian Music

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2025 56:57


    What do fried catfish, I Love Lucy, a “Jesus pest” and the Mississippi delta all have in common? They're part of the incredible story of David and the Giants, one of the most important bands in the history of Christian music! David Huff is here with me to tell his remarkable story and to preach the gospel as he does it.

    Steve Taylor Was Always Ahead of the CCM Curve

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2025


    If you want to talk about artists who have always been ahead of the curve, you have to include Steve Taylor, one of my favorite artist from the 1980s. With lyrics like “this disco used to be a cute cathedral, where the chosen cha-cha every day of the week “ you're going to set yourself apart from everybody else in Christian music. I'm excited to sit down today with one of the most unique and groundbreaking artists ever. But his career as a solo artist is only a small part of his incredible career.

    1 Degree of Andy Season 3 Trailer

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2024 1:08


    The "1 Degree of Andy" podcast brings you stories of inspiration and hope with a walk down memory lane by reconnecting you to your favorite Christian singers and songwriters. In each episode, 4Him's Andy Chrisman will not only answer “Where are they now”, but also what they've learned through the trials they've been through since you last heard from them. Season 3 starts in Jan 2025, make sure to subsribe so you never miss an episode!

    End of Season 2 - Special Announcement

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2024 8:19


    2024 has been a fantastic year for our little podcast! And even bigger things are on the way in 2025! Thank you to all of our faithful listeners. It's an honor to bring these stories to you each week.Support the showandychrisman.com

    End of Season 2 - Special Announcement

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2024 8:19


    2024 has been a fantastic year for our little podcast! And even bigger things are on the way in 2025! Thank you to all of our faithful listeners. It's an honor to bring these stories to you each week.Support the showandychrisman.com

    Blaine Bartel

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2024 54:44


    In the fabric of Christian music throughout the 80s and 90s I think it's important to tell the story of that era through multiple lenses - the producers, songwriters, label execs, etc. My good friend Blaine Bartel joins me on this episode to tell stories of his days as the star and creator of Fire By Night - a Saturday Night Live type sketch show that included some of the biggest names in christian music. But Blaine has another part to his story that I know will minister to you.Support the showandychrisman.com

    Blaine Bartel

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2024 54:44


    In the fabric of Christian music throughout the 80s and 90s I think it's important to tell the story of that era through multiple lenses - the producers, songwriters, label execs, etc. My good friend Blaine Bartel joins me on this episode to tell stories of his days as the star and creator of Fire By Night - a Saturday Night Live type sketch show that included some of the biggest names in christian music. But Blaine has another part to his story that I know will minister to you.Support the showandychrisman.com

    Mike Warnke

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2024 54:27


    Life never moves in a straight line. Many performers' and public figures' lives resemble a rollercoaster ride, from the thrill of the mountain peaks to the stomach churning drop to the bottom and all the twists and turns along the way. And that's an accurate description of the career of my friend Mike Warnke. Mike became a best selling author in the 1970s with his autobiography "The Satan Seller", the #1 Christian comedian in the world in the 1980s, and then in the early 1990s it was all over. I've had the chance to spend time with Mike over the years to hear his incredible story, but this time it hits harder than ever. This is a cautionary tale of flying too close to the sun, and the redemptive work of a faithful God.Support the showandychrisman.com

    god mike warnke
    Mike Warnke

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2024 54:27


    Life never moves in a straight line. Many performers' and public figures' lives resemble a rollercoaster ride, from the thrill of the mountain peaks to the stomach churning drop to the bottom and all the twists and turns along the way. And that's an accurate description of the career of my friend Mike Warnke. Mike became a best selling author in the 1970s with his autobiography "The Satan Seller", the #1 Christian comedian in the world in the 1980s, and then in the early 1990s it was all over. I've had the chance to spend time with Mike over the years to hear his incredible story, but this time it hits harder than ever. This is a cautionary tale of flying too close to the sun, and the redemptive work of a faithful God.Support the showandychrisman.com

    god mike warnke
    Bob Bennett

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2024 57:00


    Bob Bennett is unarguably one of the greatest singer/songwriters in CCM history, and great songwriters tend to be great storytellers. And that's exactly what you're going to get in this episode - one great story after another!  I had so much fun sitting down with Bob to talk about his journey through the music industry. And like so many artists from that era, he still has a lot left in the tank.Support the showandychrisman.com

    Bob Bennett

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2024 57:00


    Bob Bennett is unarguably one of the greatest singer/songwriters in CCM history, and great songwriters tend to be great storytellers. And that's exactly what you're going to get in this episode - one great story after another!  I had so much fun sitting down with Bob to talk about his journey through the music industry. And like so many artists from that era, he still has a lot left in the tank.Support the showandychrisman.com

    Fernando Ortega

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2024 52:01


    I think that one of the marks of a great artist is that you want to go back and listen to their music even decades later. Fernando Ortega's unique brand of songwriting, his soul-soothing vocals and his attention to Biblical detail definitely have something to do with it, a timeless and sometimes provocative mainstay in the history of CCM, and he's not done yet! Pro tip: Go listen to his “Crucifixion of Jesus” album as soon as you can.Support the showandychrisman.com

    Fernando Ortega

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2024 52:01


    I think that one of the marks of a great artist is that you want to go back and listen to their music even decades later. Fernando Ortega's unique brand of songwriting, his soul-soothing vocals and his attention to Biblical detail definitely have something to do with it, a timeless and sometimes provocative mainstay in the history of CCM, and he's not done yet! Pro tip: Go listen to his "Crucifixion of Jesus" album as soon as you can.Support the showandychrisman.com

    The Childers Brothers

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2024 77:02


    I've made a lot of great friends in my journey through Christian music, many of them friendships that have stood the test of time and distance. I got to know Mark and Mike Childers when we lived on the road together in TRUTH and then reunited with them for several tours during our 4HIM days. They've since gone on to play for artists like Twila Paris, Carman, Scotty McCreary and Carrie Underwood, but eventually all roads lead back to where we started - sitting around telling road stories and catching up on life. This episode, as you'll be able to tell, is very special to me.Support the showandychrisman.com

    The Childers Brothers

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2024 77:02


    I've made a lot of great friends in my journey through Christian music, many of them friendships that have stood the test of time and distance. I got to know Mark and Mike Childers when we lived on the road together in TRUTH and then reunited with them for several tours during our 4HIM days. They've since gone on to play for artists like Twila Paris, Carman, Scotty McCreary and Carrie Underwood, but eventually all roads lead back to where we started - sitting around telling road stories and catching up on life. This episode, as you'll be able to tell, is very special to me.Find your real voice with the Andy Chrisman Vocal Method! Support the showandychrisman.com

    Paul Smith

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2024 62:49


    The Imperials had some of the greatest vocalists of a generation ride their bus in the 1980s, including my guest today Paul Smith. Paul not only filled Russ Taff's shoes after his departure from the group, he carved out his own legacy as a singer/songwriter and gave us, in my opinion, one of the greatest solo albums of all time - Live And Learn. I love talking to my musical heroes, and this hour with Paul Smith doesn't disappoint!Support the showandychrisman.com

    Paul Smith

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2024 62:49


    The Imperials had some of the greatest vocalists of a generation ride their bus in the 1980s, including my guest today Paul Smith. Paul not only filled Russ Taff's shoes after his departure from the group, he carved out his own legacy as a singer/songwriter and gave us, in my opinion, one of the greatest solo albums of all time - Live And Learn. I love talking to my musical heroes, and this hour with Paul Smith doesn't disappoint!Support the showandychrisman.com

    Jeff Allen

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2024 69:13


    My guest today always makes me laugh, and that's a good way to get on the podcast! Comedian Jeff Allen has been a mainstay in Christian entertainment for decades and his unique comic delivery is timeless. From playing comedy clubs in NYC and Vegas, to his breakout opportunity with Bill Gaither to his explosion in popularity with Dry Bar Comedy, Jeff has had an amazing career. And it's not over yet - not by a long shot. Get ready for a lot of laughs and some unfiltered advice on life coming up on this episode of 1 Degree of Andy!Support the showandychrisman.com

    Jeff Allen

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2024 69:13


    My guest today always makes me laugh, and that's a good way to get on the podcast! Comedian Jeff Allen has been a mainstay in Christian entertainment for decades and his unique comic delivery is timeless. From playing comedy clubs in NYC and Vegas, to his breakout opportunity with Bill Gaither to his explosion in popularity with Dry Bar Comedy, Jeff has had an amazing career. And it's not over yet - not by a long shot. Get ready for a lot of laughs and some unfiltered advice on life coming up on this episode of 1 Degree of Andy!Support the showandychrisman.com

    Peter Wolf

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2024 94:46


    From playing keys for Frank Zappa to writing and producing some of the biggest songs in pop history (We Built This City, Everybody Wang Chung Tonight) to producing several songs for 4HIM, Peter Wolf has had a career that nearly defies description! He and his wife Lea join me on this episode to talk about his journey through the entertainment world, some wild song stories, how he and Lea reignited their faith, and what he's up to now.Support the showandychrisman.com

    Peter Wolf

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2024 94:46


    From playing keys for Frank Zappa to writing and producing some of the biggest songs in pop history (We Built This City, Everybody Wang Chung Tonight) to producing several songs for 4HIM, Peter Wolf has had a career that nearly defies description! He and his wife Lea join me on this episode to talk about his journey through the entertainment world, some wild song stories, how he and Lea reignited their faith, and what he's up to now.Support the showandychrisman.com

    Frank Reed - Legendary Radio Personality

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2024 75:01


    One of the keys to success for any artist is getting your single on the radio on the biggest stations in the country. Not only did my guest Frank Reed play 4HIM's songs on KLTY in Dallas, but he also became a lifelong friend. But Frank's story goes way beyond the boundaries of Christian music. He's a legend in the radio industry and I know you're going to love his story!Support the showandychrisman.com

    Frank Reed - Legendary Radio Personality

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2024 75:01


    One of the keys to success for any artist is getting your single on the radio on the biggest stations in the country. Not only did my guest Frank Reed play 4HIM's songs on KLTY in Dallas, but he also became a lifelong friend. But Frank's story goes way beyond the boundaries of Christian music. He's a legend in the radio industry and I know you're going to love his story!Support the showandychrisman.com

    Jim Murray

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2024 65:51


    I'm in the presence of CCM royalty on today's podcast because I'm sitting down with Jim Murray, one of the original members of the Imperials. To hear first hand stories about performing with Elvis and creating possibly the greatest group in Christian music history blows my mind! We also dive into the stories of some of those classic Imperials albums and - MAN! - I'm still geeking out!Support the showandychrisman.com

    Jim Murray

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2024 65:51


    I'm in the presence of CCM royalty on today's podcast because I'm sitting down with Jim Murray, one of the original members of the Imperials. To hear first hand stories about performing with Elvis and creating possibly the greatest group in Christian music history blows my mind! We also dive into the stories of some of those classic Imperials albums and - MAN! - I'm still geeking out!Support the showandychrisman.com

    Steve Wiggins - Big Tent Revival

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2024 99:03


    Big Tent Revival is one of my favorite 90s CCM bands. Their unique blend of pop, rock and folk with a Memphis twist gave us classic songs like "Two Sets of Jones" and "Choose Life". Their music left a lasting impression on those of us who listened to Christian radio in that era and their frontman Steve Wiggins is my guest on this episode. Get ready for 90 minutes of pure gold!Support the Show.andychrisman.com

    Steve Wiggins - Big Tent Revival

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2024 99:03


    Big Tent Revival is one of my favorite 90s CCM bands. Their unique blend of pop, rock and folk with a Memphis twist gave us classic songs like "Two Sets of Jones" and "Choose Life". Their music left a lasting impression on those of us who listened to Christian radio in that era and their frontman Steve Wiggins is my guest on this episode. Get ready for 90 minutes of pure gold!Support the showandychrisman.com

    Mark Stuart - Audio Adrenaline

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2024 59:33


    If you're between the ages of 30-60 years old you probably know every word to Audio Adrenaline's song “Big House” or else you didn't grow up on Christian radio! Mark Stuart is with me on the podcast  to share his story and take us on an incredible journey of his career and personal life that I know will leave you believing that God is ALWAYS up to something good our lives.Support the Show.andychrisman.com

    Mark Stuart - Audio Adrenaline

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2024 59:33


    If you're between the ages of 30-60 years old you probably know every word to Audio Adrenaline's song "Big House" or else you didn't grow up on Christian radio! Mark Stuart is with me on the podcast  to share his story and take us on an incredible journey of his career and personal life that I know will leave you believing that God is ALWAYS up to something good our lives.Support the showandychrisman.com

    Ron Hemby

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2024 73:44


    On this episode I'm going full on fan-boy because Ron Hemby - one of the greatest voices in music history and a member of The Imperials in the late 80's - is my guest today. If you haven't listened to The Imperials “This Years Model” in a while get it cued up cuz you're gonna want to listen to it once this episode is over, or put it on in the background like I did when I listened back through this conversation with the legend himself - Ron Hemby.Support the Show.andychrisman.com

    Ron Hemby

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2024 73:44


    On this episode I'm going full on fan-boy because Ron Hemby - one of the greatest voices in music history and a member of The Imperials in the late 80's - is my guest today. If you haven't listened to The Imperials "This Years Model" in a while get it cued up cuz you're gonna want to listen to it once this episode is over, or put it on in the background like I did when I listened back through this conversation with the legend himself - Ron Hemby.Support the showandychrisman.com

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