Music
Press
"...an incredible singer/songwriter
...not to be missed..." - Metropolitan Community Church Founder
"So wonderful. Nothing like hearing an experienced artist using his craft to give life to work from deep within -- and finding the grace and caring to share (his) inner life with us who are seemingly so far outside of it." - OutMusic.com (Dir of Communications)
"Shawn's lyrics and musical ability,
plus his exuberance and personal
charisma frame such a beautiful
portrait of God's grace and
all-inclusive love!" - Open Door Community Church, AR
"Shawn Thomas brought contemporary Christian music to a new stage by winning the PITA Awards, Dance Award for "Beat Of The Lord". With his new CD "Faith Unashamed", Thomas again stretches and expands the scope of his music's reach and by doing so, again Christian contemporary music. Shawn's ingenious use unique "story-sets" to introduce the songs brings added interest, meaning and above all a more universally shared set of experiences. The music itself is engaging, entertaining, and has true spirit. Thankfully there is someone out there spreading the real message of Christianity in these times of hijacked perceptions." - StoneWall Society, Founder
By Les Reynolds:
Shawn Thomas has found a way to make people sit up and notice a style of music many simply dismiss outright. Spiritual, or as some may call it, religious music, has gotten a bad rap over the years -- something it both deserved and didn't deserve. One thin that seemed to happen to it was this sort of homogenized, cookie-cutter kind of sound that made for boredom rather quickly.
Not so here. This young Alabama man has taken his extensive engineering and theatrical performance background, along with his crystal clear vocals (not quite tenor, but high notes are no problem) and created a very listenable -- and danceable -- list of tunes with a message.
By appealing to some of our most basic senses, yet softening the edge on some other tunes, it sounds like Shawn Thomas has found just the right ingredients to make spiritual music really enjoyable to a lot of people.
- Indie-Music.com
By Terry Pace:
Although he first made his name with high-powered pop and dynamic dance grooves, heartfelt spirituality isn't a new sensation for Shawn Thomas.
Thomas grew up with a musician mother and a minister father who instilled in him a deep, abiding appreciation for the spiritual power of music. That ecumencial spirit is reflected in the eclectic blend of musical styles and messages of love and unity showcased... (in his music).
- Times Daily
By Victor Gorin:
The audience at Oklahoma City's United Life Church got a special blessing and a musical rush when Shawn Thomas performed for them. His style ranged from club dance energy to pop-rock, from country to gospel, along with soul stirring selections that showcased his vocal talent. He proved quite the performer as well, not only energizing the audience with his moves but getting their participation as well. He also shared his life experiences, ups and downs, dreams and inspirations that reflected the lyrics of his songs. Definitely, everyone could see that this man, as Rev. Pat Powers put it, "is going places."
- Gayly Oklahoman
Shawn Thomas has been recording original music for nearly two decades. It wasn’t until six or seven years ago that he realized how strong his faith was and began a process of incorporating the Grace and Love of God into his music.
His expression of faith plays out more subtle but with deep heartfelt spiritual messages. From beginning to end “Worship & Desperation” is preciously spiritual--perfectly mastered for Christian enjoyment with a beautiful blend of vocal sounds and congregational participation.
Even producing and production along with Shawn’s infectious smile captures the listeners, including a track called “Sanctus” when performed live includes sign language for the hearing impaired.
The first released track “You Are Here Lord” reveals to us that the Lord is never out of reach, always lifting up our spirits in times of Worship & Desperation. Sung with a joyous heartbeat, which is amazing to experience through Shawn’s warm spiritual vocals and amazing Love for God!
Through out this CD Shawn’s atmospheric praise continually confirms to us, feelings of Love for God in a very well-written and produced album, which will be followed up with a songbook, along with accompaniment audio tracks and video media. These songs are meant to be sung in praise/worship services or listened to when you just need a spiritual pick me up.
Over all it exemplifies and truly embraces God’s unconditional love, Holy presence and devotion in a world that criticizes being gay and Christian in the same sentence.
“Worship & Desperation” is a true musical gift from God through its creator.
Amen!
- QNation FM, Arizzona (Unashamed Faith Cafe)
Shawn Thomas has put together a brilliant collection of songs filled with a strong but "real" message backed up with great musical tracks.
From start to finish this release grips you musically as Shawn takes his upbeat danceable style (that has become his trademark) and mixes it with a gamut of styles throughout the project. The honest and very heartfelt lyrics show that Shawn has opened a door into his heart and life. This release truly reflects his faith and growth starting with "Heaven Here and Now” and moving right into "Faith Unashamed". The upbeat dance tones of “You Are More”, the fervency of “That’s What You Are”, and the country style of “Livin’ My Life for You”. The ballad “Where I am” is one of those songs that seems to touch your heart while it humbles you in a huge way and “Release – Let Go” is the perfect closer for the project.
The last track on “Faith Unashamed” is not listed and is an awesome ten minute Club Remix of all the songs on this project. The music is catchy and just plain fun. The energy is as obvious as the fact that Shawn has something to say and the fun doesn't get in the way of the message. This track really took me by surprise and quickly became a favorite.
It doesn't matter what Christian denomination you belong to; Shawn Thomas brings music that will bring you to your feet and then take you to your knees!
- Danny Riddle - Pride Christian Music
Discography
Come My Way (1993), Typical Male (1995), Out In This World (1999), Everything I Am (2003), Best of Shawn Thomas (2004), Everything I Am-Mixed Up (2004), Born (2004), Changed (2005), Revisited (2006), Faith Unashamed (2006/2007), Worship & Desperation (2008)
Photos
Bio
Shawn Thomas is an "out and affirming" contemporary Christian performer and recording artist, who grew up as the son of a preacher in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). After a decade of pursuing his talents in many directions including songwriting, producing, musical theater, dance and choreography, choral direction, and voice instruction, Shawn followed the encouragement of others and incorporated his faith into his music. In 2003 Shawn released his first "spiritual" project, "Everything I Am”, and began a completely unplanned journey into music ministry, introducing him to a way of worship through music he previously thought impossible. "I was afraid to sing religious music, because I didn't think I would be allowed to do the kind of music that I enjoy. I grew up being exposed only to traditional hymns and classically based music in church, so I didn't think of contemporary music as something that could be used in worship and praise." Shawn visits churches, groups, and events sharing the Grace message of God’s Love, through concerts, workshops, and spoken message.
Shawn Thomas received the 2008 Editor's Choice Award from QNation.fm for the single "You Are Here Lord", and is a two time “Pride in the Arts Awards”(StoneWallSociety.com) recipient and seven time nominee. His 2003 CD/album, “Everything I Am” spun two number one singles and the album remained on the Top 20 for over 12 months on Pride Christian Music. His follow-up project in 2005 called “Changed”, received a nomination for “Outstanding New Inspirational Recording” from OutMusic.com. The 2006 release, “Faith Unashamed” listed on OutVoice.com’s Top40 for over 23 months and in the Top10 for over a year! And, the video for the single “What am I Gonna Do with You” has been listed as the most viewed music video on TheQTube.
Purpose Statement of the Ministry of Aaron’s Rainbow Project (ARP):
To share the Grace message of God’s Love shown in the living Word of Jesus Christ.
Mission Statement of the Ministry of Aaron’s Rainbow Project (ARP):
To use music as a source and Spiritual tool through programs, services, concerts, and materials that build unity, understanding and acceptance.
"Thankfully there is someone out there spreading the real message of Christianity in these times of hijacked perceptions."
Len Rogers, StoneWall Society Founder (OutVoice.com)
"So wonderful. Nothing like hearing an experienced artist using his craft… and finding the grace and caring to share (his) inner life with us who are seemingly so far outside of it."
Ed Mannix, OutMusic.com (Former Director of Communications)
"I've watched the music of Shawn Thomas evolve over the years, and I've seen it grow not only in its artistry but in the richness of his message. It sounds like he's speaking with his heart, and of course with that connection he will reach more people lucky enough to hear him."
JD Doyle, QueerMusicHeritage.com (OutRadio.com)
"From beginning to end "Worship & Desperation" is preciously spiritual--perfectly mastered for Christian enjoyment with a beautiful blend of vocal sounds and congregational participation." Arizzona, "Unashamed Faith Café" (QNation.fm)
The honest and very heartfelt lyrics (of "Faith Unashamed") show that Shawn has opened a door into his heart and life. It doesn't matter what Christian denomination you belong to; Shawn Thomas brings music that will bring you to your feet and then take you to your knees!"
Danny Riddle, Pride Christian Music
For more information — email: ministry@aaronsrainbowproject.com
phone: (561) 635-5052
mail: "The Ministry of ARP"/Shawn Thomas Studios, 43 Meadows Drive, Boynton Beach, FL 33418
www.shawnthomasonline.com www.aaronsrainbowproject.com www.shawnthomasstudios.com
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