TENTH AVENUE NORTH GIVES LOCAL CONCERT
Tenth Avenue North played the Hylton Memorial Chapel in Woodbridge, VA on Thursday, November 4. Promoted by Dan Donehey, father of lead singer, Mike Donehey and sponsored by Mike’s alma mater, Fredericksburg Christian School, it was obvious Mike was thrilled to be playing at a venue so close to his hometown with family and friends in attendance.
If you purchased a deluxe ticket you were allowed early entry for an informal question and answer time with Tenth Avenue North’s band members: Mike Donehey, Jason Jamison, Jeff Owen, Rueben Juarez and Brendon Shirley. This is different from your average “meet and greet” where you have a brief encounter with the band, perhaps obtain an autograph and get your photo taken with them. During the Q&A we learned that all the band members listed “The Truth Is Who You Are” as a current Tenth Avenue North song favorite; Mike wrestled with writing “Empty My Hands” for over one and a half years before he was satisfied with the finished product; they have to be creative where family time is concerned while on tour; and in case you thought Mike stole his hairstyle from Justin Bieber he claims he’s had it since before Justin was even born.
The concert was full of songs off their current album “The Light Meets the Dark” and selections from their first album “Over and Underneath.” When asked how the band is able to keep their performance fresh night after night Mike Donehey replied that the set list is thoughtfully prepared allowing for some flexibility. The ability to challenge audiences to a deeper walk of faith while simultaneously encouraging them with the truth of God’s grace has propelled Tenth Avenue North to the forefront of the Christian music industry.
I couldn’t help but be impressed by the band’s sincerity and commitment to share their faith through music. They are also willing to put their faith into action. Jeff and Jason took a moment to encourage support for organizations against human trafficking and slavery. Mike later challenged us to support the needy in third world countries through Compassion, International – something each of the band members already do. According to Mike “worship is something we do with our whole life.”
Opening for Tenth Avenue North was Matt Maher who proved to be a great choice as he interacted with the audience while sharing his music, encouraging audience participation. Matt was followed by the contemporary Christian group Addison Road. I confess I was a little disappointed when they didn’t perform their hit “What Do I Know of Holy” but there were those in the audience more familiar with the songs on their self titled album that didn’t seem to mind.
All in all it was a wonderful night of praise and worship with a personal challenge for me to live out my faith in everything I do.
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