Interview: Equippers Revolution
Equippers Revolution is the sound of the Revolution Youth Movement, a musical expression of Equippers Church, based in Auckland, New Zealand. Last month they released 'Hands High', the latest chapter in their movement's story. These songs are a bold, diverse, energetic statement of faith. LTTM spoke to Kenan Stephenson, Singer/Songwriter for Equippers Revolution, to find out more.
Tell us a little bit about this new album?
This album is a reflection of our movement, and the journey we’ve been on for the last few years. It’s all about choosing to praise God, declaring His goodness at all times, especially the hard times.
Which is your favourite track on the album and why?
I’d have to say Hands High. It was the first song written in this chapter of songs, and it really set the tone for what has become the album. It’s such a strong declaration of faith, and challenges us to always declare God’s goodness, no matter what comes.
If you could work with any songwriter, who would it be and why?
Joel Houston has been my hero for many years, so it’d definitely be him. His dedication to the lyrics, and his ability to always bring fresh concepts has been something I’ve always aspired to do also.
Do you prefer playing live or working in the studio?
I’d say a good balance of both. We love writing and crafting the songs in the studio, but the songs are always crafted for a live environment - and the environments at home at our youth are electric.
How would you describe your style of music and what are your influences?
I would describe our style as ‘Movement Party Worship’. Our sound reflects our movement as is energetic, diverse, and bold. In terms of influences, you can’t not be influenced by Hillsong when writing worship music. After that we’re all pretty different. Our main producer Josh loves Muse, and listens to them a lot, whereas I tend to like pop music a bit more.
How would you define success in your career?
Success for us is to successfully fuel our movement with songs that encourage our youth, and help them to connect with God.
What has been your career highlight so far?
Whenever we hear that our youth are connecting with the songs, and that the lyrics inspire them to live for God, that’s definitely the best highlight for us. Hearing people in other countries listen to our sound is also huge for us, because we’re from the end of the world, so we’re naturally amazed at global reach.
What is your favorite album of all time?
UNITED WE STAND by Hillsong UNITED was a game changer, and so that definitely stands out amongst all the great albums out there for me. But we’re all very different in our music taste. Our producer Josh’s favourite album is ‘Resistance’ by Muse. He still listens to it daily.
You're stuck on an island, it's hot, you only have enough battery life left to listen to one song on your mp3 player. What track is it?
If I could only listen to one more song it’d be ‘Dancing Queen’ by ABBA. I feel like that’d be a great song in the circumstances.
What does the next year hold for Equippers Revolution?
We’re looking forward to fresh music for our movement, and I pray we don’t get too distracted by all the amazing opportunities coming our way. We love what we do, and we’re up for the adventures ahead.
Answered by Kenan Stephenson (Creative Director/Songwriter/Singer for Equippers Revolution)
