By David F. Dawes

Country star Tim McGraw will soon be in Vancouver.

Let’s see: one of today’s top music stars; plays a leading role in a best picture nominee; happily married to a beautiful and talented woman; known for his generosity, compassion and integrity.

There has to be a flaw. Ah, I have it: he’s an evangelical – and a Democrat!

McGraw, who will be performing at GM Place March 25, has been riding high as a country music star – reaping huge sales and multiple awards.

He has played roles in several films, to some critical acclaim. In The Blind Side, one of this year’s Oscar nominees for Best Picture, McGraw plays a Christian whose adopted son becomes a football star.

The movie is based on a book of the same name by Michael Lewis (described by Malcolm Gladwell of Tipping Point fame as “the finest storyteller of our generation”).

Continue article >>

As a child, McGraw sang spirituals in church. He attended a  Christian high school. At university, however, he enthusiastically embraced the party life.

It’s a safe bet these experiences formed the basis for one of his most poignant songs, ‘Drugs or Jesus’ – which, tellingly, ends in worship.

Faith also infuses ‘Kill Myself,’ from Live Like You Were Dying. The lyrics confess:

“I fought and lied, I drank too much / Hurt every one I ever touched.” The chorus vindicates the narrator: “I thank God / The devil in me died / I stand before you now /  A man changed and alive.”

Aside from expressions of faith, McGraw has also demonstrated public compassion. He and wife Faith Hill created  the Neighbor’s Keeper Foundation. In addition to helping with disasters like Hurricane Katrina, the organization also aids individuals caught in desperate straits.

Another gifted musician with a Christian background will perform in early April. Acclaimed singer/ songwriter Patty Griffin is a lapsed Catholic, whose work reflects her exploration of faith.

This is especially evident in her 2009 gospel album, Downtown Church – a project initiated by musician Buddy Miller, who is well known as a Christian. Griffin will be at Vancouver’s Commodore Ballroom April 2.

March 2010