1. Can you tell me the story of how you joined Petra?

I was on tour with a band called Th’ Legendary Shack Shakers, great band! And I got a call from Petra’s manager one day about them looking for a ROCK drummer. I remember thinking, “wow, Petra, that’s cool, but I can’t do it”. I was on tour. After a few days, I kept thinking about it, and knew God was showing me an opportunity. A choice. So I called Wayne, Petra’s manager, and asked to try out. By the way, they got my name from a friend of mine that was working on Jekyll & Hyde. Small world. So Wayne told me I would have to be at the audition on a certain date, and if they liked me, I would come back the next day. Well, I had to talk him into coming on the second day, because I was in Cleveland doing a show. I felt very strong about getting a chance to play with the guys, and it was quite a journey to get there. So I did the show, got on a plane that next morning at 5am, ouch! Flew to Nashville, drove to John’s house and did the audition. It was great meeting the guys. They were so cool to me. After we jammed, I drove back to the airport, and flew to Detroit to do the next show. WOW! Two weeks later I got the call, and the rest is history!

2.  Do you remember the first gig you did with Petra and how did you prepare for it?

Yes, we rehearsed almost everyday for two weeks, and flew to John’s hometown to do the show, and it rained so hard, we didn’t get to play. : (The next show was Night Of Joy at Disney World, and it was great!

3. What is your music background? I grew up listening to mostly Heavy Metal. I was in the marching band in school, and learned a lot about reading music and different styles too. I love Blues, and some Jazz too. Which entered your life first, Christianity or drums? Well, I went to Church as a boy, but didn’t give my life to Christ. I didn’t “KNOW” Him. So I would have to say the gift of music was given to me first. I was saved from myself about 5 years ago. In which bands did you use to play in? I have two brothers, and we have played together for 20 years or so. I played with a band called “Black Oak Arkansas” in 1985-86. And spent some time in Los Angeles in the 80’s, Mostly Metal bands you have never heard of. HaHaHa! But I was always playing.
4. About family, how did you find out that your family is carrying your ministry? My family is wonderful! We have a very good relationship. Are they musicians? There have been many musicians in my family, and more to come I hope! Which are the Pros and cons of being a musician? I love traveling, and meeting people. Seeing new places, and old places. And I am very grateful to be using one of gifts God has given me. Sometimes, on long tours, I do miss my home, and family.
5. You are always on tour is there a time to practice or do not need it anymore? Oh yes, I need to practice, but don’t get do it like I should. I spend a lot of time reading, and practicing in my head. How many hours do you usually to practice? When I’m home, I try to practice at least an hour at a time.
6. How do you feel being a member of a band that have history and repercussion around the world and the most important that have influenced virtually an entire generation of Christian young people for the Lord? It is amazing to be a part of! There are so many stories from people all over the world about Petra. I feel very blessed to be in a band that walks the walk. It is teaching me more and more about the way I should live. I learn from the people I meet, and the stories they tell me.
7. How do you feel working with Bob Hartman and John Schlitt? They’re the best. My favorite thing is we love the same kind of music. And the next album will be Rocking too!
8. Do you have a favorite album? Jekyll & Hyde! Is there a song that you feel identity or maybe this song has spoken more in your life? I can defiantly relate to Jekyll and Hyde. The battle in my soul. I have to give myself to God everyday. It’s not always easy, but He is always there!
9. Since you entered Petra what has impacted your life? Meeting Christians all over the world.
10. Are there plans for a new album or which is the next Petra project? We are writing songs as we speak.
11. Are there plans for a tour in Latin America to released Jekyll & Hyde in Spanish? I don’t know right now. But I love playing there.

Could you say a message for everyone that is reading this or to everyone that have a great time with you and that were anxiously waiting for this interview? I would like to say THANK YOU! Thank you so much for all the support, and all your prayers. I am so grateful to have fans like you. I am your fan too! I look forward too seeing you all again! God bless you!