10-30-2025 PART 3: Real, Raw, and Redeemed: Randy Stonehill on the Craft and the Calling

Section 1

The second half of the interview opens with laughter and humility as David and Randy trade stories about creative imperfection and learning to live with one’s own art. Randy recalls making his first record, Born Twice, at age nineteen for only $800—an experience that sparked both excitement and endless self-critique. Decades later, he admits he still hears what could be improved on every album, yet that hunger to grow has kept him inspired. The two share a bond over the discomfort of listening to their own work, confessing that even seasoned performers cringe at their recordings. Randy’s mentor, the late Mark Heard, gave him life-changing advice: “Don’t sing to me. Let the song tell its story.” That lesson—be real, not perfect—became a cornerstone of his approach to music and ministry.

Section 2

Randy’s tribute to Mark Heard reveals deep respect and affection. He recounts how Heard’s raw authenticity and songwriting genius shaped his own artistry and how the pair met through Larry Norman during the early Christian music movement of the 1970s. Heard’s influence joined that of other pivotal figures such as Larry Norman and Dave Perkins, whose gritty musicianship helped Randy embrace a more powerful and heartfelt performance style. With humor, he remembers ripping open his shirt during a passionate vocal take—proof that his faith and fire remain intact. Randy also credits secular musicians like Stephen Stills of Buffalo Springfield for shaping his guitar technique, explaining that his sound became a rhythmic, percussive blend he jokingly calls “confused—but in a good way.”

Section 3

As the conversation turns spiritual, Randy’s humility takes center stage. When asked how he stays grounded, he says the Word of God and daily prayer keep him anchored. “This is God’s breath on the written page,” he says, urging listeners never to treat Scripture as a mere ritual. He shares that years of walking with the Lord have taught him gratitude, perspective, and joy in stewardship rather than spotlight. Citing mentors like A.W. Tozer, Oswald Chambers, and pastor Ben Patterson, Randy emphasizes that real maturity comes from truth spoken in love. The interview closes in warmth and humor—David encouraging fans to visit randystonehill.com and Bandcamp, and Randy offering blessings to every listener. Their hour together ends as it began: two brothers in Christ celebrating authenticity, laughter, and the God who turns every note into praise.