Interview with Joel Houston and Matt Crocker of Hillsong UNITED

Source: worshipleader....
In an exclusive interview with Worship Leader Magazine in 2013, Joel Houston and Matt Crocker of Hillsong United shared profound insights into the creation of their album "Zion." Reflecting on the thematic evolution from their previous work, "Aftermath," Houston emphasized the album's overarching focus on purpose-driven songs inspired by the biblical concept of Zion. They believe that believers play an active role in bringing God's kingdom to Earth, emphasizing the significance of understanding God's timeline from creation to the new creation centered around the cross.
Matt Crocker delved into the musical exploration behind "Zion," describing it as a blend of influences from various genres, humorously labeled as "retro electro future folk worship" by Houston. The album aimed to infuse a modern touch into worship while maintaining a timeless quality. The interview explored the delicate balance between creativity and worship, with Houston urging against limiting worship to contextual constraints. The Hillsong United team embraced experimentation with sound while ensuring that the songs remained pure and true to their essence.
When discussing standout tracks, Crocker highlighted the explosive nature of the first song and the emotional resonance of "Oceans" and "Heartbeats." Houston expressed the uniqueness of each track on "Zion," emphasizing lyrical depth and personal connections. The interview also uncovered the deeply personal inspiration behind the song "Mercy Mercy," a heartfelt prayer of repentance inspired by the passing of a friend they led to the Lord in New York City. Overall, the interview provides a glimpse into the spiritual and creative journey of "Zion," showcasing the depth and sincerity that define Hillsong United's approach to worship and music.
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[@Felix-yk4ln]

I really like Matt's I Surrender

[@gaiiileee]

Same. 'I surrender' has always been my topmost fave

[@faithrobards7978]

Felix Jaffet ME TOOO ITS SO GOOD! He needs to sing it moreeeeee

[@TheWorshipLeader]

Thank you for watching!

[@tatumcufffogelsonger1059]

LOVE THEM ALL OF HILLSONG UNITED!!! JOEL IS JUST ADORABLE☺️

[@TheWorshipLeader]

Thanks for watching!

[@middle_pickup]

Love what Joel said about production, and shredding guitar solos.

[@klizmusic]

I think Joel is awesome...thank God for this Band

[@TheWorshipLeader]

Thanks for watching!

[@bekacynthia]

Love them so much

[@TheWorshipLeader]

Thank you for watching!

[@bbaylere]

Merveilleux message de compassion, thanks guys for the big work, love your music :-)

[@TheWorshipLeader]

Thanks for watching!

[@pato1470]

cant wait to see you guys in albuquerque

[@chandlergross8336]

Stellar!

[@kevinsimiyu5438]

Come to Kenya please!!!!!

[@TheWorshipLeader]

Thank you for watching!

[@MrBoqwana]

Come to Stockholm Sweden!!! Sweden needs the Spirit of God through revival and worship.

[@TheWorshipLeader]

Thank you for watching!

[@pato1470]

That's exactly what I thought when iheard zion!

[@mariaveronicasandovalrodri5086]

👑Desde Houston, Texas.Familia Barrientos Vindel Sandoval Rodriguez &📖MINISTERIO FAMILIAS PARA CRISTO👏)

[@TheWorshipLeader]

Thank you for watching!

[@AndyVanBass]

"Retro electro future folk worship"

[@kengerikrishnaveni2578]

Please visit India we need you visit Hyderabad in India

[@TheWorshipLeader]

Thank you for watching!

[@Worshipcaster]

hmmm...with Zion, it was the message that touched me (that's the point anyways) but the music ended up growing on this once bluesman wannabe :P blessed be the name of God...nonetheless if i was to play any of these songs i'd probably go the acoustic route, just feels right

[@TheWorshipLeader]

Thanks for watching.

[@WilliamPatrickGreen]

As God is the breath of creativity, Satan is red-tape and obstacles.

[@TheWorshipLeader]

Thank you for watching!

[@Gustavomansillasd]

Alguien tiene que traducir esto al español porfavor!!!!

[@mmusclepark]

finally Joel Houston cut his hair!

[@kodydamours4060]

I was worshiping in a band one time and at that time, the worship leader always shredded the guitar. It wasn't appropriate and didn't fit. It's the lyrics and the singing that matters, and it's not about the leader's singing, it's about the audience being able to sing out their hearts.

[@RobbieCRussell]

m83

[@miricristiano]

:)

[@TheWorshipLeader]

Thank you for watching!

[@JulyJ8]

please translate to spanish.

[@TheWorshipLeader]

Thank you for watching!

[@edpepperdine2834]

"shredding for the sake of shredding"?? Seriously?!?! Ha! You are EXACTLY that. Just described yourself to a tee. BTW, Hillsong United is now middle aged ministry. Throw in the towel already!

[@MrMrahill]

you are a hater Ed Pepperdine. I don't see botox lol Don't listen to hillsong united then.

[@MyNameIsBenMcLeod]

Neither of these two would ever/have had botox haha

[@KungeNxv1]

Yes sweden need hillsong

[@TheWorshipLeader]

Thanks for watching