Crystal Padilla of CPM Talks About Their New Record: "There Truly is Beauty as We Wait"

By Timothy Yap Dec 17, 2015 01:53 AM EST

CPM is a bilingual worship band based our of Atlanta, Georgia. CPM is a diverse group of worship leaders with a strong passion and desire to see people grow in a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. They seek to create music with a message hope, to impact the lives of people around the world. CPM believes that humility and authenticity in worship leading is key to create an atmosphere to worship the only one who matters- Jesus. As Jeremiah 29:13 says, "You will seek me and find me, when you search for me with all your heart."

Hallels: Thanks Crystal for doing this interview with us. Tell us who is CPM. And how did you come together?

During my last year in college I felt the calling to be a worship leader- specifically a bilingual worship leader that would minister to the Latino community. This was scary to me because 1. I was a drummer and my degree was concentrated on percussion and 2. My spanish is not perfect (although I am fluent). The idea of leading worship and writing music in Spanish was a huge leap of faith! Since that "leap of faith," through various events and opportunities, I have met the band members that form part of CPM today. God has been so faithful in allowing me to do what I do and to serve with some of the most amazing people.

Hallels: How would you describe your style of music?

I would say we're an eclectic mix of worship music with a touch of pop/rock.

Hallels: I just love the title of your new record "Beauty in the Waiting." Isn't the title ironic? Normally we don't associate "beauty" with "waiting." So, can you explain?

You are exactly right. In our culture today, we experience such a "fast pace" style of living. We tend to forget that as we walk through life and what the Lord has for us, being patient and waiting on His timing is key. There's beauty in the waiting because through the hard times, you learn so much!

Hallels: Can you give us an example maybe from your own life or the Bible where there's beauty in the waiting?

Well, in the past year individually and as a band, we have been through so much change. Sometimes when hard times come we feel like giving up because thing may not go "our way," yet when good and joyful times come we become anxious. We have truly experienced Lamentations 3:35 where it says, "The Lord is good to those who wait for Him- to the person who seeks Him." CPM is certainly seeking Him and waiting on Him. We have seen the Lord's faithfulness through every situation. The songs off this album reflect our hearts as we have walked through this journey. There truly is beauty as we wait on the timing of our Father because ALL things work together for the good of those who love Him.

Hallels: I love the first song off this new record "River of Life (Psalm 1)." For our readers who may not have heard it, tell us what is this song about. And what was the inspiration behind this song?

"River Of Life" was written and inspired by Psalm 1 where it paints a picture; a contrast of those who choose to walk in the path of the wicked that are like the chaff in the wind that simply blow away in the wind or those who choose to delight in the Lord and follow Him are like a tree planted by a stream of Life where they prosper and bear fruit. We wanted to make a fun upbeat song that was still deep and convicting.

Hallels: As a team what is your vision as far as your music is concerned? How would you wish your music could impact God's kingdom and the lives of people?

Our desire is to simply bring something fresh to the table that is full of heart and passion- to be authentic. As a band our hope is that these new songs will bring people into a closer relationship with God - wherever that relationship starts. As our electric guitarist, David, put it, "We pray this music will edify the saints, stir the strays, and light a path for the lost."

Hallels: Where can our readers go to find out more about you and your music?

You can visit our website www.crystalpadillamusic.com and find us on Facebook (Facebook.com/crystalpadillamusic), Twitter & Instagram: @_OfficialCPM!