Interviews: The Word66

On this new occasion, we had the opportunity to interview the Christian Rock band The Word66 from the USA. Check out the interview and follow the band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. Where did you get the idea for the band name? Did you plan it, or did it come out just like that?

A fun fact is that there are actually 66 books in the Bible, which most people are unaware of. I remember hearing a sermon at church where that fact was mentioned, and I tucked that away in my head for a bit. The Bible is also considered "the word," and we put the two together. Why did you want to play this genre? It was a calling for me. I believe that it is my purpose in life. To write music that will glorify God's name. Heavy metal-wise, that has always been my music of choice. Love the power and everything about it. I believe my love for both is why I was chosen.

3. Did you know each other before the band was formed?

Yes and no! Lance, the drummer, is probably my oldest friend. We have done several music projects over the years. The drummer from the first record I found was from placing an ad in a music paper. The other guys came by word of mouth. Our last couple of records have Danny Miranda from Queen and Blue Öyster Cult on bass.

4. Each band member's favorite band?

Not sure? I'm thinking Black Sabbath, Blue Öyster Cult, Rush, and Iron Maiden.

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

Honestly, God and Jesus. As mentioned, this is a calling for me. I get most of my inspiration from the Bible. Some of the tracks are inspired by different books. Our 1st single, "On The Way To The Promise Land," is derived from the book of Exodus. One of the new tracks is called "The Sky Is Falling," which is about the flood from Genesis as an example. I also like to squeeze in some scripture here and there.

6. Where was your last gig?

In California. We have not done a lot of touring to date, but we will be getting out there again soon.

7. Where would you like to act?

Assuming you mean play? Being originally from NY, my dream is to play Madison Square Garden. That would be amazing!

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

Not sure if it can still happen, but it would be so cool to play with Black Sabbath. I am also a pretty big fan of Shinedown. Christian-wise, Disciple, Skillett, and Creed.

9. Who not?

Not sure how to answer that one? Probably bands that are not within the genre. I remember many years ago going to see a metal band, and the headliner was actually a country band. You had your metal heads dressed as such, and the other half of the crowd wearing cowboy boots and hats. We all exited after our band was done.

10. Have any of you ever suffered from stage fright? Any tips for beginners on how to beat that?

I think it's natural to get a bit nervous prior to taking the stage. It's the anticipation of what the night has in store. Seeing the crowd's reaction. I always remember the old Nike commercial, "Just do it." I sometimes like to not think about it too much, and when it's time to rock, don't think about it and just go out and give it all you've got. Plus, for us, we have the Holy Spirit watching over us. 🙂

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

I would have to say, for me, Black Sabbath. I remember being a little kid and digging how intense the riffs were. I used to sit at the edge of my bed, rocking up and down to the music. My parents used to get annoyed at the noise it made on the floor. LOL. I was also a big Priest fan. Later, I discovered some really cool Christian rockers like Disciple and Thousand Foot Krutch, to name a few.

12. What's the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you for?

Nothing too weird yet! Probably signing a girl's breast. Is that weird?

13. What do you think of your fans?

They are amazing! Where we are, what is considered to be a crossover band, meaning played on Christian and non-Christian radio, the majority of the fans are Christian. They are faith-based and are just high on God. No drugs or alcohol. Just feeling the Holy Spirit and loving the messages.

14. What do you think of our site? 

Very professional. Well laid out and a wealth of information. We are excited to be added to the content.

15. Something you'd like to add?

Sure. I talk a lot about religion because it's a big part of our mission. In person, we are regular dudes talking about regular stuff. You don't have to be a follower to listen to our music. We are a metal band like your other favorite band, with the only difference being that we always rock with a positive message. Hopefully, you will dig our sound and perhaps check out other bands that do the same. I believe you are missing out on some great music if you don't. Also, please like, follow, and subscribe. It would be much appreciated. Thanks for taking the time to chat with us!