Jimmy Needham is a Christian singer/songwriter who released four successful albums on Inpop Records. His newest album The Hymns Sesson Vol. 1 released earlier this month on September 10th. 

We'd like to thank Jimmy for taking the time to speak with BreatheCast. 

BreatheCast: Your new album Hymns Session Vol. 1 just released on Sept. 10th, how does it feel to have it out?

JN: "It's all very exciting.  This is my first independent release since I got started in 2005.  I feel like being involved entirely in this release has given me a renewed appreciation for what it means to create and present one's art.  And, maybe it's because of my involvement in it all, I sense an even deeper connection to my fans since the release.  With every purchase, it kinda feels like they have my back even without the machine."

BreatheCast: How would you describe your sound for people that haven't heard of you and what artists have influenced your sound?

JN: "Quirky, soulful, pop music.  Musically, I love any artist that sounds like they mean what they're singing.  I LOVE Motown era soul music.  Stevie Wonder is one of my faves.  I have to also pay my respects to folks like Shane & Shane, Derek Webb and Ross King for their impact not just on my sound but my content.  These days I'm a big fan of guys like Harry Connick Jr., Adele, John Mayer, and Jon Foreman from Switchfoot."

BreatheCast: Tell us the story behind your song, "Clear the Stage"?

JN: "Interestingly, Clear The Stage is one of the only songs in my catalogue that I didn't write.  My good friend and fellow artist Ross King released it as an indie artist back in 2002.  I heard it in high school and God wrecked me by it.  It was my great pleasure to share this anointed song with my fan base in hopes that God would awaken a new generation to a full hearted pursuit of the God of the universe."

BreatheCast: What advice would you give to up and coming Christian bands?

JN: "My college mentor put it best:  The most dangerous place for a human heart is on a stage.  I think all artists, myself included, could use a little more trepidation when pursuing such a career.  The absolute hardest thing about my job is not the travel, or being away from family, but the pull on my heart toward self-worship instead of God-worship.  The only way you'll survive this job unscathed is by having an uncannily close relationship with Jesus.  Having our identity rooted in Him protects us to promote Him well."

BreatheCast: If you could collaborate with one Secular Artist and one Christian Artist, who would you choose?

JN: "Jon Foreman for both."

BreatheCast: Do you have a current scripture or quote that has been speaking to you?

JN: "I do not nullify the grace of God, for if righteousness were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose." (Galatians 2:21)" A great reminder to me that the gospel does not permit me to boast in my own record for my righteousness, but Christ's."

BreatheCast: If you could play professionally for any sports team for one day, who would you pick?

JN: "The fighting Texas Aggies!  Whoop!"

BreatheCast: What are your touring plans for this Fall 2013?

JN: "I'm hitting the road with one of my favorite artists, Ross King, for a 15 city tour during October & November.  It's called the Guy, Guitar & Gospel Tour.  The title says it all.  Go to jimmyneedham.com to see if it's headed your way."