Interview: Pastor Riva Tims Shares on Her New Music Journey, Story behind "Access Granted" and her Fall 2013 Plans

Pastor Riva Tims is the lead pastor at Majestic Life Church in Orlando, FL and also heads up Majestic Life Ministries. Her work as a pastor in the church has led her to a new music ventur and the album Access Granted being released. 

We would like to thank Pastor Riva Tims for taking the time to speak with BreatheCast.

 

BreatheCast: How did it feel to step outside of your comfort zone of speaking and into the world of music?

RT: "The World of music was definitely outside of my comfort zone. Although, I am a worshiper at heart I am not a singer.  There was so much to learn about the music industry period.  I am still learning but I am enjoying the ride."

 

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

RT: "Our sound is multifaceted. The CD is diverse in its music and the sound is more contemporary but still has a traditional core of true worship.  I consider it a breath of fresh air."

 

BreatheCast: Tell us the story behind the title track, "Access Granted"?

RT: "Access Granted was our New Year's Eve theme.  Numbers speaks of the children of Israel trying to get to the promise land. They needed to pass through the land of another tribe to get to their destination. They didn't want any food, water they just wanted to pass through. Unfortunately the King refused to let them pass and decided to attack the children of Israel.  Israel fought back and they ended up possessing EVERYTHING in the land.  When man says no God says Access Granted.  I feel like that with my life.  I have been through a lot these past few years.  And I believe that God has said Access Granted In my life."

 

BreatheCast: How do you feel you can bring a different perspective to the music and production with your background?

RT: "Because I am not an entertainer and I am not looking to make some quick money, I think my attitude is different when creating the music.  I am looking to present Gospel Music not as a man pleaser but as a tool for others to enter into pure praise and worship."  

 

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

RT: "I love the mature sounds of Will Downing as the secular artist. His voice is an instrument.  CeCe Winans as the Christian artist, not because of her popularity but because of her longevity." 

 

BreatheCast: Do you guys have a favorite scripture as a band or a truth that you guys use a lot?

RT: "The scripture principle that I stand on is "Hold your peace and let the Lord fight your battle".  Rest in God your peace is in God not anyone or anything.  God is your motivator and your strength.  That's how you become a God pleaser and not a man pleaser."

 

BreatheCast: What are your plans for this Fall 2013?

RT: "We will be moving into our new 1200 seat sanctuary and 500 seat youth facility,  Just excited about God."