Greg Long

Greg Long can be one of two artists 1: From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia: Greg Long (born December 12, 1966) is a member of the Christian band Avalon. He is married to fellow band member Janna Long. From Greglong.com, the artists website: With eight number one singles, six more top 10 hits, an ASCAP Award, and two Dove Award nominations, Greg Long embarks on a new leg of his acclaimed journey with passion and excitement. Not only has his long-awaited Christian Records debut, BORN AGAIN, released, but Greg has officially joined Sparrow Records’ multi-Dove Award-winning, American Music Award-winning platinum selling group, Avalon. While it may sound like a full plate, Greg is enjoying the ride as he continues to grow his relationship with God and expand his career and ministry. Musically, BORN AGAIN presents bold lyrics, great melodies and a fresh sound. It reunites Greg with producer Don Koch (4HIM, NewSong) on four songs, and Koch’s presence assures fans of Greg’s signature rich pop melodies and strong vocals. Secondly, add producer Mooki Taylor (TobyMac, Stacie Orrico, The Katinas) for four more tunes, and Greg exhibits some R&B flare that has not been heard on his previous projects. The album is completed with two cuts produced by Greg and industry A&R veteran, George King (Michael W. Smith, Yolanda Adams, Bob Carlisle). BORN AGAIN reflects the story of grace in the life of one man, Greg Long, as he shares the love relationship with His God. It is a testimony in music. From the first seed planted, to baptism in the faith, to a time of rededication, to calling on God during difficult times, to the ongoing call to share the Gospel, Greg invites the listener to rediscover the joy of being in love with the Savior. “I wrote or co-wrote nine of the 10 songs on BORN AGAIN-- the most I’ve ever contributed to an album,” Greg explains. “I hope people see my heart in this project and are drawn to the excitement of walking with Jesus.” The title cut launches with “It was the Gulf of Mexico / My father waded in….” which tells the actual story of Greg’s baptism by his father, an itinerant preacher. Real life footage of his baptism as a young boy is included in the music video of “Born Again.” “The greatest moment in someone's life is when they meet Christ and become a new creature,” Greg explains. “The Bible says that all the old is passed away and everything becomes new. That moment brings such joy and relief and a heart full of gratitude. Taking that faith the next step is seen through the expression of baptism. The song ‘Born Again’ reminds me of that moment and brings it to today – I can feel clean inside with no more weight on my back because His mercy is "new" every morning. I know I don't live like this is true everyday, but I should. When people hear the song, they might not identify with the specifics of the story of Greg Long, but they relate to that feeling in their heart. They know what it feels like to be born again!” Having given his heart to Christ at an early age, Greg Long recalls rededicating his life at a Dallas Holm concert at age 14. “I remember literally feeling like my body was walking on it’s own at the altar call. God really moved in my heart that night. It was a watershed moment for me. Now it’s my turn to take a stab at a song, ‘Rise Again,’ that has impacted me and countless others.” The musical journey continues as Long presents his passion to share Christ through his own music. “The song ‘Sing About Jesus,’ with its light R&B groove, is a reaction to the conflict of ministry vs. making a living. When it comes down to it, I really do just want to sing about Jesus and tell people about his goodness and his love. I am blessed to be able to have my career be my ministry.” Continuing the theme of wanting to share about Jesus comes “Fifteen.” This song displays the desire and responsibility Greg feels for people to come to know Christ as their own personal Savior. “This song is so convicting to me personally, but also it is meant to be an encouragement to us all. If it takes a person 15 times to hear about Jesus before they believe, what happens if I’m the fifteenth? Wow! We have to be constantly aware of sharing Christ with others.” “Once Upon A Time“ has a movie-like theme production that was inspired when Greg was writing the song with Lowell Alexander. The song began and Greg was instantly reminded of a fairy tale. “Every fairy tale starts with ‘Once upon a time…,’ and has some great love story between a prince and the princess. Well, what about the greatest love story of all time, the story of God’s love for his people and how He rescues them? But this story isn’t a fairy tale!” The R&B ballad “The Cross, The Blood, The Love,” was birthed out of Long’s desire to understand why it had to be the Lamb. “I always understood the cross and the blood, but I don’t comprehend why it wasn’t me. Why did it have to be Jesus?” “Savior of the World” presents the gospel with a driving dance beat behind it, “Everlasting” is a straight up true pop tune, and the simple prayer song “Be Near,” features vocal contributions from Greg’s friend, 4HIM member Andy Chrisman. Greg Long’s passion has remained consistent since those early days of faith. He has always tried to concentrate on living in the present – but the present sure has changed. Married to Avalon’s Janna Long with a child on the way, a busy touring schedule as a solo artist, and most recently adding responsibilities of being a member of Avalon, Greg has had to juggle a lot of hats. “Being in Avalon while maintaining a solo career is the result of people’s hearts for furthering the Kingdom. I am grateful that I am able to tour with my wife and share in the ministry of Avalon, while being able to record BORN AGAIN to present the message God has given to me. Having Avalon and a solo career is truly an unbelievable blessing.” 2: From Discogs: Also known as Canton Sound and co-founder of Citrona who was born in Jacksonville, Fl. He has spent half his life writing music. He's become a one man band playing an array of instruments ranging from the bass, guitar, piano and currently the drums. A unique difference between Greg and most electronic artists today is that Greg does not use samples (beats or melodies) of any kind in his work. Greg is in the company of musical pioneers who create songs in a more traditional manner, yet maintains a unique modern style of his own.