By Han Sang-hee
Staff Reporter
Steve Green, an award-winning Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) singer, is in Seoul to share the message of God through his songs.
The 51-year-old singer arrived last Tuesday, and having such a tight schedule, the interview was carried out in a van heading toward his next destination ― a church in Bundang.
This is Green's first visit to Korea in 11 years, and when asked if he remembered the reaction of Korean fans, he smiled.
``They were surprisingly receptive and warm,'' he told The Korea Times.
Green's parents were missionaries in South America, where he also grew up. He started singing when he was in college, curiously enough, because one of his professors encouraged him to sing. Although he had his doubts of ending up in the music industry at first, the singer has been singing for over 20 years, winning seven Gospel Music Association Dove Awards.
``(Singing) was not just a career choice, but actually something that God orchestrated and allowed me to do,'' said Green.
His first performance as a singer was at Liberty University, Virginia, and it was indeed a memorable one.
``I didn't really have a very good program. All I had was a story of God's kindness. So I sang my story and it was the very first time that, without having to invite people to come forward, (people) just started to come up and pray. I wasn't quite sure what was going on, it just happened,'' he said.
From there, Green realized that these performances were more than just musical events, and his journey toward a CCM singer unfolded.
Traveling around the world needs tedious preparation of songs, concerts, meetings and messages, but Green's goal was always the same.
``The message can change a little along the way. But the heart of it is what we call the gospel. Gospel is the story of God rescuing us. (This has) taken deeper root in my own heart over the years. My job is to travel and `leak' the gospel,'' said Green.
During the interview, Green was easy-going and cautious of his words. But on stage, he became an inspirational singer with a gentle, yet confident voice. Amid the hectic schedule and people who swarmed the chapel to see him sing, the singer did not forget to express his gratitude with a warm smile.
``I love to do what I do. It's a thrill. Through songs, I get to reach deep into people's hearts, which is a real privilege. I see people sitting there weeping, because (the songs) touched the real tender part of them. I get to remind people what is true. I think I have the best job in the world,'' smiled Green.
Green is holding a concert with Korean CCM singer Song Jung-mee at Namsan Drama Center May 24. The concert was arranged to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Torch Trinity Graduate School of Theology. All tickets cost 30,000 won. For more information visit www.stevegreenkorea.com or call (02) 872-9319.