Its only fitting that the group made a terrific impact at the 2005 Rock Summit, an industry event drawing national attention and also featuring performances by Stryper, Casting Pearls and Sanctus Real. Though the guys had been refining their sound on the road since 1998, performing everything from covers in club settings (with a heavy leaning towards Hootie and the Blowfish) to worship selections in more ministry-focused environments, DecembeRadios sheer grit and passion absolutely entranced those gathered.
"We kind of went into the Rock Summit like everything else we do, mostly because we had not done much industry stuff other than a few showcases," explains the groups guitarist Eric Miker. "So that gave us the advantage of not being nervous and not really even knowing who was going to be there, but we got the attention of a lot of DJs and the industry in general to name us 'Buzz Band of the Year'."
Perhaps it was the groups incredibly entertaining live spectacle or maybe it was the members down to earth approach on stage that earned them this illustrious honor, along with a spot a few months later on BILLBOARDMagazines Faces to Watch cover story as the scales tipped towards 2006. Rather than going in with the intention to impress, the troupe tore into its regularly scheduled program of cutting edge musical expressions with a sincere and mature commitment to ministry not often found in a group of twentysomethings.
"There's definitely a lot in the set for musicians or any rock n roll fan to like- the energy, the guitar solos and the drum solos," notes lead guitarist Brian Bunn. "But we also try to react to the audience on a deeper level and with a more spiritual mindset. We have a set of worship that brings all that into focusone of the guys shares a message, and we have a time of prayer. Then we celebrate again at the end and really rock out."
Considering the players tightly sealed cohesion and unbreakable chemistry on stage, DecembeRadio never had a problem catching its ambitious sound in the studio through a string of independent releases. But its recent partnership with Slanted has opened the doors to an all-new method of recording - one that teams them with acclaimed producer Scotty Wilbanks (Third Day, Overflow, NewSong) and a trip to Southern Tracks in Atlanta (allowing them to use the same gear as many of their heroes).
The results have yielded a full-length record packed with a slew of single-ready, hook-heavy, infectious jams that unfold as a natural extension of the mind-blowing concert experience. Considering DecembeRadio has its influence pool rooted in the most lauded acts of yesterday while simultaneously keeping its pulse on the alternative sounds of today, the quartet has an obvious appeal to mainstream audiences and is likely to introduce the Christian marketplace to a whole new pedigree of power.
"That's kind of what were hoping for-to be attractive to the unsaved, along with believers who don't typically listen to Christian music," explains drummer Boone Daughdrill. "Sometimes Christian music cant satisfy the needs of someone in their late 20s or early 30s who grew up on the hard rockin' stuff and finds that attractive, but also experiences a spiritual level through the music. People always say to us you dont sound like what I usually hear in Christian music, and that's what were praying for- to have the Lord use what were creating to touch their hearts."
"We're not out to try to be rock stars, we're just a bunch of southern boys who want to hang out, have a good time and inspire others," sums up Bunn. "But were not trying to play it safe musically or spiritually. Were not interested in selling out to the industry to be famous and were passionate about being technically on top of our game. We realize each day that without God were nothing, and its our mission to spread His message through music. Without that, we'd be unhappy and lonely. You're never going to be happy, find peace or comfort without the fulfillment of Christ in your life."
Least Of These
DecembeRadio Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Be hope to me
'Cause I'm the least of these
'Cause I'm the least of these
'Cause I'm the least of these
'Cause I'm the least of these
Be love, be love
Be grace to me
Be peace to me, oh
'Cause I'm the least of these
'Cause I'm the least of these
'Cause I'm the least of these
Yeah, I'm the least of these, yeah
My heart is crying out
My hands are reaching out
My heart is crying out
My hands are reaching out
Be love, be love to me
Be love
I'm the child without a home
I'm the widow left alone
So be love, be love to me
'Cause I'm the least of these
I'm the least of these
'Cause I'm the least of these
Yeah, I'm the least of these, oh
My heart is crying out
My hands are reaching out
My heart is crying out
My hands are reaching out
'Cause I'm the least of these
'Cause I'm the least of these
Yeah, I'm the least of these
Yeah, I'm the least of these
Be love, be love
Be love, be love
Be love
The song "Least Of These" by DecembeRadio is a plea to God for love, hope, grace, and peace. The repeated refrain "Cause I'm the least of these" acknowledges the singer's own need and desperation, as well as the biblical concept that those who are in need, vulnerable or marginalized are considered the "least of these" by Christ himself. Throughout the song, the singer expresses his yearning for God's love and presence, comparing himself to a child without a home and a widow left alone. The bridge "My heart is crying out, my hands are reaching out" reveals a sense of urgency and desperation for help.
The song is a powerful reminder that as Christians, we are called to care for those in need and to love our neighbors as ourselves. It challenges listeners to examine their own lives and consider how they can be the hands and feet of Jesus, reaching out to those who are hurting and in need of love and hope.
Line by Line Meaning
Be love to me
Please show me kindness, compassion, and unconditional acceptance.
Be hope to me
Show me that a positive outcome is possible, and that you believe in me.
'Cause I'm the least of these
I am among those who are most vulnerable, disadvantaged, or marginalized in society.
Be grace to me
Show me undeserved favor, mercy, and forgiveness, despite my mistakes or shortcomings.
Be peace to me, oh
Help me find tranquility and calmness amidst the chaos and turmoil of life.
My heart is crying out
I am deeply longing, yearning, or in pain.
My hands are reaching out
I am seeking help, support, or connection from others.
I'm the child without a home
I am a young, defenseless person who lacks a stable, safe, and nurturing living situation.
I'm the widow left alone
I am a woman who has lost her husband and is now struggling to cope with grief and solitude.
Be love, be love to me
Please demonstrate love, compassion, and understanding towards me, as I am in great need of it.
'Cause I'm the least of these
I cannot emphasize enough how vulnerable and powerless I feel in this situation.
Be love
Once again, I implore you to offer me kindness, empathy, and support, as they are desperately needed.
Contributed by Andrew S. Suggest a correction in the comments below.