All In

All In
December 1, 2015
www.kurtscobie.com/blogs


I've spent way too much time and energy building my avatar.

So much of life these days is spent hiding behind screens that we have forgotten how to live in the real world. EVERYTHING we do, it seems, requires us to be handcuffed to our devices. Or, more accurately, our vices. We're enslaved to selfish selfie-ism and addicted to information. We're all just "playing it safe", disengaging our hearts and settling for passivity instead of engaging with passion.

We need saving.

And another meme won't save us. Another blog won't save us. Another powerful video won't either. Nor will a cause. Or any political or religious leader.

And, really, we can't even save ourselves. Though, we do have a part to play.

It has come down to one thing for me. Courage.

Our online avatars have built up a such a false sense of boldness that we no longer understand what true courage looks like. Courage isn't shouting your beliefs from your tiny social media platform. It isn't preaching from your blog (like I'm doing now).

One of my favorite quotes says it well:

"Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy." - Dale Carnegie

Inaction is sharing yet another political article/video/meme on Facebook. Inaction is arguing in circles in comments on YouTube. If ever we needed a break from the internet, it is now. And I think that is the first step in taking real action.

I recently read a book by Mark Batterson called "All In" which had a profound impact on my life (and inspired my new single). Here's an excerpt that stood out to me:

"Quit living as if the purpose of life is to arrive safely at death.
Set God-sized goals. Pursue God-ordained passions. Go after a dream that is destined to fail without divine intervention.
Keep asking questions. Keep making mistakes. Keep seeking God. Stop pointing out problems and become part of the solution.
Stop repeating the past and start creating the future.
Stop playing it safe and start taking risks.
Expand your horizons. Accumulate experiences. Enjoy the journey.
Find every excuse you can to celebrate everything you can.
Live like today is the first day and the last day of your life.
Don't let what's wrong with you keep you from worshiping what's right with God.
Burn sinful bridges. Blaze new trails.
Don't let fear dictate your decisions. Take a flying leap of faith.
Quit holding out. Quit holding back.
Go all in with God. Go all out for God."
- Mark Batterson - "All In"

Whoa.

ALL in?

That's scary. And risky. And a little crazy.

Pursue "a dream that is destined to fail" unless God steps in? My guess is that has little to do with your recent post on Facebook.

And I am quite certain that the world is better off when we are fulfilling, with passion, the purpose we were created for.

So, how are you doing with that?

I know I've got a long way to go, but I'm taking baby steps. For me, going "all in" means powering down my smartphone and investing time with my family. Or closing my laptop and meeting a friend for coffee. Or trying something new. Or giving something up. For me, going "all in" means continuing to write songs like "All In" and then putting them out there to be accepted or rejected. I believe that music has the power to change minds and hearts and I have a responsibility to speak the truth through my songs. For me, going "all in" is engaging my heart, as painful or uncomfortable as it might be, in everything I do.

What does it mean for you to go "all in"?

"I'm all in
There is more that I was made for
Than standing on this safe shore
And living like I did before
All in
Stepping out into the open
Now my heart's awoken
I'm all in"
- Kurt Scobie, "All In"

"All In" - Kurt Scobie [Official Lyric Video] https://youtu.be/CCrXQKQT5d8

Download/stream "All In" here:
iTunes: http://apple.co/1kQNMbW
Google Play: http://bit.ly/21j7LAK
Spotify: http://spoti.fi/1lNoYlB
Amazon Mp3: http://amzn.to/1MHiL3d

Fortress - New EP, New Blogs!

Posted by Kurt Scobie on July 1, 2015

It has been an exciting first-half of 2015!

I released my very first worship EP in April and it has been quite a ride. If you haven't checked it out yet, I'd love for you to go download it on iTunes (or listen via Spotify, if you must). I am excited to see where God is leading me with these songs. I have already had opportunities to share these songs at different churches where I sing and lead worship. You can check out a couple of those live recordings via SoundCloud.

If you haven't been following along, I have ANOTHER blog where I share my journey as a worship leader. I know you have plenty of reading material on this internet thing, but if you're standing in line at the DMV or something and you're tired of playing Candy Crush, I have a few blogs you can check out.

I wrote a series of 4 posts, that talk more in depth about my thoughts and prayers behind each of the tracks on the "Fortress" EP. For your convenience, I've provided links for you, below. :) Thanks for reading!

1. "Fortress - Come To Me" [TRACK 1] - http://www.kurtscobie.com/worship/blog/fortress-come-to-me

2. "Fortress - I Will Trust" [TRACK 2] - http://www.kurtscobie.com/worship/blog/fortress-i-will-trust-psalm-91

3. "Fortress - Lead Me (All I Want is You)" [TRACK 3] - http://www.kurtscobie.com/worship/blog/fortress-lead-me-all-i-want-is-you

4. "Fortress - Be Lifted High" [TRACK 4] - http://www.kurtscobie.com/worship/blog/fortress-be-lifted-high

Back to the Studio!

Posted by Kurt Scobie on June 24, 2015


New music is coming.

A couple weeks ago I made the long trek up to Michigan for a quick visit with family and, mainly, to record a new song I have been working on! Jake Rye, producer ("Crash" and "The Hopeful Broken") and bassist (Sanctus Real), put his golden touch on a catchy little tune... that I can't share with you just yet. Sorry!

But, I do have some photos.

I know, I'm not much of a photographer. But, I feel like I am supposed to do this whole social media/blogging thing to make sure you know I'm still alive and creating things. So, this is all you get!

Anyway, here are a few photos from the studio.

We had a blast and I am looking forward to when I will be able to share some new sounds that are in the works. Until then, here are some grainy, poorly lit pictures I took with my camera-phone. Enjoy!

My boy, Justin Boyd, made the trip from Atlanta with me to play drums! He killed it!

Big, scary vocal mic. But, I gave 'er a good fight!

Jake Rye, producer extraordinaire!

Tracking piano and RHODES! :)

Oops.

Video: "I Will Trust (Psalm 91)" - Kurt Scobie [Official Lyric Video]

Posted by Kurt Scobie on March 24, 2015


Today is an exciting day for me!

I am pleased to share with you the official lyric video for a song from the new EP (coming April 14th). Take a few minutes to check out the video, with a good pair of headphones (your laptop and phone speakers just won't give you the best listening experience), and share it with your friends. Here's the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSthnH3wB3M

For lyrics, visit kurtscobie.com/lyrics-i-will-trust-psalm-91 OR, you know, just watch the LYRIC video ;)

Remember, pre-orders for "Fortress" begin March 31st! Official release day is April 14th!

Thanks for your support!

Video: "You Make Me Brave" (Bethel Music) - Kurt Scobie [Cover]

Posted by Kurt Scobie on March 19, 2015


I know it seems like I talk about Bethel Music constantly. But, they have been releasing some awesome songs. They've got their finger on the pulse of modern worship music and I look forward to each time they release something.

"You Make Me Brave" is a song by Amanda Cook and we love singing this at my church. It is a powerful message of hope and strength.

Here is my rendition. Please take a few minutes to watch and then share it.

"You Make Me Brave" (Bethel Music) - Kurt Scobie [Cover] - recorded live and in one take. Enjoy!


http://youtu.be/JTlBFpm3VcI

Worship EP Title & Artwork

Posted by Kurt Scobie on March 14, 2015

www.kurtscobie.com/fortress

Another stage in the album-creation process is complete! In my March Email Update I revealed the artwork and title for the worship EP I have been working on these last few months. My friend Ty did a great job working on designing exactly what I wanted.

It is an exciting and awesome thing to look back and see how one seemingly little idea grew into lyrics, and then songs, and then a full studio project. And now, watching it materialize into an actual CD. It feels like I have been given just a glimpse into what it was like for God to create something from nothing. It is incredible.

This whole project began when I was reading Psalm 91. Words and phrases kept popping out at me as a read and re-read this ancient poem. Eventually melodies and chord progressions followed and a song was born, which became the theme for this whole EP.

Life has been a blur since then. I can't believe that I am about to release this to the world. 

It has been quite a journey, thus far. I hope you'll stick around for what is next. I have some fun stuff planned! And I know God has some things up His sleeve for this, too. Four months ago a new EP was not even on my radar. Now I have a title, artwork, and everything has been sent off for digital distribution and I should be getting physical CDs the beginning of April. I am just so very thankful for this endeavor. And I am pumped for what lies ahead!

Video: "All Of Me" (John Legend) - Kurt Scobie [Cover]

Posted by Kurt Scobie on March 12, 2015


John Legend is the man! I mean, he kinda has an advantage over those of us who do not have the last name "Legend", right? It's pretty unfair.

I have been covering "All Of Me" for a while now, so it was a logical move to record it for my weekly YouTube cover videos.

I hope you like my rendition and share it!

"All Of Me" (John Legend) - Kurt Scobie [Cover] recorded live and in one take. Enjoy!
http://youtu.be/ZwwRNjfYtgc

Video: "Out of Hiding" (Steffany Gretzinger) - Kurt Scobie [Cover]

Posted by Kurt Scobie on March 5, 2015


Ever since I got her album, Steffany Gretzinger's powerful voice has been singing non-stop through my car stereo (she must be tired).

Particularly, her song "Out Of Hiding (Father's Song)" has been an amazing reminder of how God is calling people back to Him. If you haven't heard Steffany's album, "The Undoing", I highly recommend you check it out. In my humble opinion it is one of the best new albums out there right now. Powerful songwriting. Soaring melodies. Beautiful truths.

I have tried to do this song justice. I hope you like it and share it!

Check out the original here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFkDqQtfs0w

http://youtu.be/Lq9XQIZ4rlQ

Video: "Good Good Father" (Housefires) - Kurt Scobie [Cover]

Posted by Kurt Scobie on February 26, 2015 


It isn't too often that I come across songs that carry such power like this one.

"Good Good Father" by Housefires is one of my favorite songs right now. This song was recently introduced at my church and I LOVE it. It talks about God's love for His people, something that I feel is not talked about enough. The message is simple and true: God is a good Father, and we are loved by Him.

This resonates deeply with me, so, naturally, I covered it.

Please take a few minutes and watch the cover video and share it with your friends. I hope you like it!



http://youtu.be/rNp5C_y2RyA

Video: "One Thing Remains" (Bethel Music) - Kurt Scobie [Cover]

Posted by Kurt Scobie on February 19, 2015


I love pretty much anything Bethel Music puts out there, and there are a few of their songs that are extra-meaningful for me. "One Thing Remains" is one of those worship songs that God has used to speak to me (and many people). I believe that God is good no matter what, and that He loves to show His people His unfailing love.

I hope you enjoy my rendition of this song. Do me a favor and share it!

Cheers!


http://youtu.be/oTKgitGEtuQ

Video: "Everything" (Michael Buble) - Kurt Scobie [Cover]

Posted by Kurt Scobie on February 12, 2015


There's nothing quite like a little love song from Michael Buble to make Valentine's Day complete. And weddings. And most other occasions and holidays. That guy is THE MAN!

Ok, man crush aside, Mr. Buble does great work. And to fuel the Valentine's flame, here is one of Michael Buble's first hits, "Everything", performed by yours truly. I have sung this tune at plenty of weddings, engagement parties, and cocktail hours over the years. And I still like it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CMw786O0d6g

Video: "She Will Be Loved" (Maroon 5) - Kurt Scobie [Cover]

Posted by Kurt Scobie on February 5, 2015


In the spirit of Valentine's Day, this week's and next week's cover songs are a couple love songs that I have been performing for a few years. Check out my cover of "She Will Be Loved" and share it with that special someone.

Cheers!

Recording Session [Photos]

Posted by Kurt Scobie on February 2, 2015 

Last week I had the pleasure and honor of beginning the recording process for my third studio project. I met up with producer/engineer Chuck Harris at a little church in Lookout Mountain, GA (near Chattanooga) and we began the process of bringing a few of my new songs to life.

Here are a few photos from my session. Special thanks to Chelsea McGough for your beautiful cello work!

In my happy place.

Grace Presbyterian Church provided a perfect space to track piano and cello.

A beautiful Yamaha C6 baby grand.

I like stained glass.

Chelsea McGough applying the cello butter to my songs.

It was a peaceful day on the mountain. All recording sessions should be this relaxing.

The vocal corner back at Chuck's home studio.

Oh, hi there!

Throat Coat tea and God made this vocal session possible.

Mix master Chuck Harris, doing what he does.

Chuck and I before headed home. Grateful for this new friend.

Video: "Bad Day" (Daniel Powter) - Kurt Scobie [Cover]

Posted by Kurt Scobie on January 29, 2015


It's Thursday! So, here's another cover video for ya! This one goes out to who is having a terrible, horrible, no good, and/or very bad day. Also, to anyone who simply likes this song by Daniel Powter. Cheers!

Video: "Love Song" (Sara Bareilles) - Kurt Scobie [Cover]

Posted by Kurt Scobie on January 22, 2015

Those who know me, know that I am a pretty big fan of Sara Bareilles' music. Great piano + great songwriting + great vocals = pretty much my favorite artist. It was a pretty easy decision to add this song to my catalogue of YouTube covers.

Here's one I learned years ago. I still love it. "Love Song" -recorded live and in one take. Enjoy!



"Love Song" (Sara Bareilles) - Kurt Scobie [Cover]

Video: "Your Song" (Elton John) - Kurt Scobie [Cover]

Posted by Kurt Scobie on January 15, 2015


Alright! First cover video of 2015!

I hope you enjoy my interpretation of Elton John's "Your Song". Leave a comment, share it with your friends, and subscribe to my YouTube channel if you like what you hear.

Cheers!


http://youtu.be/PYN6XiOUpmw

Your Crash (Live) - FREE Download

Posted by Kurt Scobie on January 4, 2015

On December 5th, 2014 I had the pleasure of performing with some fine singer-songwriters at Red Clay Music Foundry in Duluth, GA. We had a GREAT night singing original songs and Christmas favorites. My friend Brennan Warren played cello on my songs, and she rocked it! I love the cello and I love how the recordings turned out from that show. So much so that I am giving you a free download from that night.

Check out this unique version of "Your Crash". And feel free to share the link with your friends! www.kurtscobie.com/freedownload