photo by Garret Lobaugh the band and that we were self-produced . The first project was a compilation album of worship leaders from around the world . We had known Matt Redman from playing in Europe at festivals together and were becoming friends . He was a part of that album as was Tim Hughes and a few others . That was the beginning of a season of producing a whole bunch of projects with the U . K . guys over the next few years . It was all really a result of friendship and trust that was built over time . We really connected with those guys and what they were doing with worship for the church . The stuff that inspired us originally came from them and it was more raw and honest . It was quite cool that we got to go full circle and help those guys over there after they had played such a huge part in inspiring us .
[ WM ] You have been involved with other milestone songs from “ Open The Eyes Of My Heart ” by Paul Baloche , to Cory Asbury ’ s
“ Reckless Love ” and now the huge crossover hit of Lauren Daigle ’ s “ You Say ”. That is amazing ! If we had a list printed out of the top worship songs in the last 20 years you have had a hand in several of them . You have certainly found favor . How do you approach working with each artist ?
[ Dwayne ] Whether I ’ m producing , arranging , mixing or even playing guitar on a session it is really all about serving . Serving the artist , the song , the environment and the vision etc . You have to realize that every single person has something that is deeply personal that only they can offer creatively , a kind of musical DNA or finger print if you will . Music is always the best when you can tap into and help develop that .
That being said it ’ s always really important to realize what it is that you can personally bring to a song or situation as well . Being aware of what your strengths are and what makes you unique is extremely important when collaborating . Also , just knowing when to stay out of the way when things are rolling as well ! ( laughing )
[ WM ] Talk to me about working with Nick Carter of Backstreet Boys fame and the world tour you did . I personally believe it is good to be salt and light in those type of musical friendships / relationships . Where you allowed to be yourself as a Christian man on those tours or did you have to keep a low profile as a believer ?
[ Dwayne ] Nick was such a sweet guy and really great friend ! It was quite a crazy season as Backstreet had just split up at the height of their career and Nick released his first solo album . We were able to put together a killer band out of Nashville that was basically our friends that had all toured and recorded together over the years . The result was a kind of a band of